In this heartfelt episode, I open up about the emotional tug-of-war between our suburban Michigan home and our seasonal vacation property up north—a quiet, pine-scented escape that feels more like home every visit. I share the dream of one day moving there full-time, the slower pace of bird watching, crafting jewelry for Sunset Artisan Jewelry, and small home projects… and the very real hurdle my husband has set: the businesses need to be successful first.

Right now, they’re not lifting off. I have the websites, the social media, the handmade polymer clay earrings and silicone bead keychains I’m proud of—but if no one’s buying, is it really a business, or just a beloved hobby?

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the in-between—loving where you are but longing for somewhere else, building a side dream while life keeps you grounded—this one’s for you. Let’s talk persistence, joy in the process, and finding beauty in both homes

Our Links:

Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com

Shop - www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com

Merry Christmas, everyone. This episode is just a soft little visit with you on Christmas morning—right here in our Metro Detroit home, with no snow outside, a few gifts for our grown boys, and nothing fancy under the tree for my husband and me.

It’s been a tight year financially, but sitting here in the glow of the lights, listening to the quiet before everyone wakes up, I’m just so grateful we’re all together and healthy.

Sometimes the simplest Christmases are the ones that fill your heart the most.

Our Links:

Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com

Shop:

www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com

In this episode I’m opening up about something that’s been on my heart lately; Why spending time on our little piece of land up north always brings me such deep peace.

It’s not about big adventures or getting everything done on the property. It’s the quiet walks, the wind in the trees, the way the world slows down, and how I always drive home feeling lighter, steadier, more like myself.

If you’ve ever had a place that just settles your soul, I think you’ll understand. Come sit with me for a little while.

Our Links:

Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com

Shop:

www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com

Lately, life has felt loud—especially in my head.

In this episode, I talk honestly about overwhelm, racing thoughts, and the cycle of overthinking that can keep us stuck. From lying awake at night with a noisy mind to walking away from goals out of fear of failing, this is a quiet conversation about noticing the pattern and learning to create space for calm.

This isn’t about pushing harder or having it all figured out. It’s about slowing down, finding structure, and taking one small step when the noise feels overwhelming.

Our Links:

Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com

Shop:

www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com

I used to be obsessed with squirrels… until forty-five hit and suddenly I’m a birdwatcher. In this episode, I unravel how that happened, why it seems universal, and what this says about midlife hobbies. If you relate, welcome—you’re in good company.

Our Links:

Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com

Shop:

www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com

We’d been hunting for up-north property forever. One popped up, I couldn’t go see it, so my husband drove up alone.

He called me from the middle of a garbage laden, bug infested-trailer disaster and said, “It’s rough… but I can fix it.”

I thought he’d lost his marbles, but we’d already lost too many good ones, so I told him to make the offer.

Fast-forward through years of dumpsters, sweat, and a million trips to Menards… and that same dump is now the quiet, cozy 10-acre getaway our whole family lives for.

Grab your mug and come laugh with me at the blind-trust purchase that somehow became our favorite place on earth.