The Most Inspiring Conversation I Didn’t Expect to Have in Reno

“We don’t stop moving because we grow old. We grow old because we stop moving.” — Unknown

So, I was planning to wrap up the Health-Wellness Spectrum conversation this month with a big recap on the Five Factors of Health… and then something magical happened in a Reno casino hotel gym over Thanksgiving that completely hijacked this newsletter—in the best possible way.

Picture this: I’m grunting my way through a CrossFit-style workout in the corner of a very traditional hotel gym. Everyone else is on the stair stepper or doing bicep curls, and there I am dropping heavy dumbbell deadlifts and kicking up into handstand pushups against the wall… carefully, of course, so I don’t scuff the wallpaper and get kicked out of Reno. 😅

After I finish, this very fit, fiery older woman marches straight up to me and immediately starts chatting—asking what I’m training for, talking about movement like it’s her religion, basically preaching to the choir.

Naturally, I ask her about her life, and in five minutes I’m standing there thinking:
“This woman is an absolute badass… and holy crap, she is dropping some TRUTH BOMBS.”

Her energy. Her wisdom. Her no-nonsense attitude toward life and health.
Lightbulb moment after lightbulb moment.

So instead of a recap, I’m sharing the gold nuggets I got from this unexpected Reno angel. I hope they spark something in you, give you a needed kick in the pants, or at the very least entertain you.

Here we go. 💥

Never Stop Moving

In the five minutes I talked with Lori, this powerhouse of a 74-year-old woman said one phrase at least five times: “Never stop moving.”
Don’t stop because you’re older.
Don’t stop because you’re tired.
Don’t stop because you got sick.
Just. Don’t. Stop.
A little extreme for us younger bucks, sure—but to her, it wasn’t a cute saying. It was lived truth. She sees what happens when people stop. She told me she still works full-time as an attorney because staying sharp and keeping up with the 30-year-olds in her office keeps her mentally and physically alive.

 Her words instantly reminded me of something Ben Bergeron said on the Chasing Excellence podcast:
“You don’t go to the nursing home because you’re sick. You go because you lose the ability to function on your own.”
Falling. Moving. Caring for yourself. This is strength training for life.

But here’s the thing—you don’t have to be 75 for this to matter. Every year you do less—less movement, less challenge, less growth—your baseline slips. And the lower your baseline gets, the harder it is to bounce back when life hits you.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, I was so grateful my baseline was high. That year took a huge toll on my body and I dropped down a notch… but because I started high, I had somewhere to land.
If my baseline had been low? Getting back to healthy would’ve felt impossible.

**So let me ask you**:
Where’s your baseline today?
Where will it be tomorrow?
Where could it be a year from now if you decide—like Lori—to never stop moving?

It Takes Time

Lori shared an analogy I loved:
If you want to become a race car driver, you don’t start in a Ferrari.
You start small, build skills, and work your way up—slowly.
We live in a world of quick fixes: six-week shreds, magic programs, and six-pack promises. (Side note: I’ve been doing fitness for 13 years and still don’t have abs… though that might be more of a nutrition problem than a training problem, but that’s a conversation for another day. 😉)

If you’re just getting started—or even if you’ve been dabbling for a bit—please remember: progress takes time. Like… real time. Longer than any of us want it to.

And it’s not just overall fitness. Seasonal activities take time to come back to, too. As winter creeps in (hopefully soon!), don’t be shocked if your first day back snowshoeing, ski touring, or even downhill skiing feels a little rough. Sometimes it feels magical and sometimes it feels like your lungs have never worked a day in their life. This is normal. Your body needs time to readjust.
If you want a smoother transition, a lot of gyms offer “get in shape for ski season” or “bike prep” classes—super fun and super helpful.

And let’s talk about breaks. Long ones.
Whether you’re coming back from surgery, pregnancy, cancer (grrrrr), or simply a stretch of life where fitness fell off the plate… you won’t return as the same person who left. You have to rebuild. Slowly. With patience.
And sometimes? You may never get back to exactly where you were before—and that’s okay. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re entering a new era of you, one we’ll talk about more below.

Fitness Is Not an End Goal

Like I mentioned above, it takes time to get where you’re going… but here’s the real kicker: there is no final destination.
Yes, you’ll hit PRs.
Yes, you’ll crush a race you trained for.
Yes, you’ll have seasons where you feel strong, athletic, dialed in.
But if you truly want to win at fitness—and honestly, at life—you have to learn to love the journey and the process. Because fitness isn’t a 12-week finish line. It’s a lifelong habit, something you show up for daily (or close to daily), with no “end” in sight. And that’s a beautiful thing.

I once heard a wild statistic: quitting smoking makes a person 41% healthier. Makes sense, right? Now here’s the crazy part—supposedly, per a podcast I trust, you get that same 41% increase in health by improving your VO₂ max one level.
— They gave a dramatic example; if you went from running a 7:00-minute mile to a 6:30 mile, you’d gain the equivalent health jump of a smoker quitting. 🤯
Now… I don’t know the exact science behind the numbers (don’t come at me exercise physiologists), but the message landed hard:
Getting even a little fitter has a massive impact.
So don’t chase giant leaps—chase 1% better. Day after day.

And while we’re at it—remember this: fitness doesn’t care about your mood.
As the famous line from Dune says:

“What does mood have to do with it?”
You show up whether you’re tired, unmotivated, grumpy, or simply not feeling it.
Motivation is fickle. Discipline builds your life.
(Get your butt in the gym, lace up your shoes, or go for the rainy-day walk anyway… unless you’re actually sick—then rest like a responsible adult.)

Take the Harder Path

Choose the Stairs
Choose to park farther away. Choose the slightly harder option. Lori laughed as she told me, “It cracks me up watching people circle the parking lot for the closest spot… at the gym!” And honestly? She’s right.
These tiny choices compound over time. So start planting those seeds now: skip the elevator, walk the extra steps, load your own groceries, carry the heavy thing.
Choosing hard—especially in the small ways—builds a stronger you….physically AND mentally. 

Fighting the E-Bike (for Now 😉)

Lori said she has not succumbed to the e-bike and she proudly told me she still rides her 30-pound, 25-year-old Diamondback—and that it’s a workout just loading it into her truck.
 
I personally know the day may come when I welcome an e-bike into my life, and I fully support people who love theirs. E-bikes are amazing for accessibility, inclusivity, and helping people ride farther and longer.

But for me, right now, choosing the non-motorized route keeps me stronger. It forces me to work a little harder, push a little more, and stay honest with my fitness. Someday I’ll probably be cruising around on one too… I just hope it’s when I’m in my 80s. 😉

Taking Aging in Stride

Despite fighting the e-bike life, Lori admitted she’s back on a foam surfboard these days. We both instantly jinxed and said, “At least you’re still out there surfing though!” And truly—that’s the point. Push off the aging process as long as you can, but know that adjustments will come. You’ll go lighter, slower, shorter, or simpler at times, but you’re still out there, moving, trying, showing up. And that is pretty freaking incredible.

As things shift, keep this in mind:

▫️ Reassess your life every few years.
New season? New decade? New baby? Surgery? Illness? Injury?
There’s no shame in creating new PRs for the version of you who exists now. Progress isn’t always linear—it’s cyclical, evolving, and personal.

▫️ Your training needs may change.
Maybe five days a week in the CrossFit gym was right once, but now three feels better. Maybe running 50 miles a week hits different in your 40s and 30s–40 miles is your sweet spot now. The key is to be stubborn enough to stay consistent, but gracious enough to adapt.

• And remember: sometimes the “new you” is actually the better you.
I’ll admit, I still get sad when I can’t squat what I used to, or clean & jerk over 200 lbs. But then I zoom out—I have a much more balanced life now. I hike far, I lift heavy-ish, I outrun my kids (for now), and I keep up with Tony on the bike most of the time. That version of me is strong in ways that matter more than just the numbers.

Giving Up

In the short time I spent talking with Lori, I got the sense she’s not someone who gives up on much of anything. Except, occasionally… on people. Not because she doesn’t love them, but because she’s exhausted from trying to motivate the friends who say they’ll hike with her (despite being scared), she gets so excited, and then—bam—they bail.

She knows they’re nervous. She knows they worry they won’t be able to keep up. But here’s the thing: she doesn’t care. She doesn’t mind going slower. She doesn’t mind taking breaks. She just wants the joy of the company.

And honestly? I feel the exact same way. If I invite you on a hike, it’s because I want you there. I won’t invite you on certain big, gnarly hikes because I know they’re too much (or because I selfishly want to go fast or sometimes alone). But if I do invite you, it’s because I already know your pace, your ability, your vibe—and I still want to spend that time together.

So if you’re one of those people who wants to say yes but worries you’ll “slow someone down,” hear this clearly:

You’re probably right — you probably can’t keep up.
But if someone invited you anyway? That means speed isn’t the point. Connection is. The adventure is secondary to the time together. And they’re totally fine stopping 100 times if it means sharing the trail with you.

Inspiring One Person

Despite her frustrations with friends bailing on hikes, Lori wrapped up our conversation with this simple truth: “If you can motivate or inspire one person, then it’s worth it.” And honestly, that hit me right in the heart.

Because that’s exactly what these Elevate Livin’ Life newsletters are about for me. I pour a lot of time, energy, and thought into them — time I could spend outside with friends, or adventuring, or, let’s be real, cleaning my house. And sometimes I wonder, Does this matter? Is anyone even reading this? Why am I doing this?

But then one of you emails me back…
Or tells me a story…
Or shares it with your family…
Or asks a question that sparks something deeper…

And in that moment I’m reminded — yep, it’s worth every minute if it helps even one of you.

And here’s the part for you: you also have a voice. You are an expert in something. You have lived experiences, hard-earned wisdom, and unique stories that someone out there needs. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t be afraid to share. Don’t be afraid to spark a conversation with a stranger who feels like a kindred spirit.

Just like Lori did with me.
And yes — I did awkwardly ask her for a photo, because I knew I didn’t want to forget her anytime soon.

As always, thank you so much for reading along and being part of this community. I hope you have a fabulous holiday season — full of movement, joy, connection, hopefully skiing?!? and maybe even a few magical encounters with strangers who feel like soul friends.

— Kelli

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Hiking on Black Friday in Tahoe in 70 Degrees with Lots of Family! 

The Power of Pause

“The quality of your thinking determines the quality of your life.” -A.R. Bernard

The old Kelli would’ve looked at the Think bucket and thought, “Eh, that’s important—but not that important,” definitely not as crucial as the other buckets of the Wellness Spectrum (Eat, Sleep, Train, Connect).

The new Kelli knows better. The new Kelli has spent the past eight years juggling more than ever—building a business, raising two kids, remodeling homes, moving, traveling, and all the life that happens in between. Yet, in that chaos, she’s also carved out more space to think—often thanks to mom schedules that force me to adventure alone.

And now I know. Now I see how vital this bucket really is. Thinking—truly pausing, reflecting, and being intentional—has changed everything for me. And I hope, by the end of this newsletter, you’ll see why it matters so much for you too.

Why Do You Need to Take Time for Your Mind?

Life is full of challenges—some you joyfully signed up for and others you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. And when those hard times come, you’ll wish you’d trained your mind as much as your body.

When you build mental strength, you give yourself tools to weather the storm: the ability to “pull from your cookie jar” (as David Goggins says), to adopt a growth mindset (more on that below), and to see obstacles as opportunities instead of just pain and struggle.

I recently listened to a book that referenced Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning. If you’re unfamiliar, Frankl was a Jewish psychologist imprisoned in Nazi concentration camps during WWII. He lost his entire family, endured unthinkable suffering, and barely survived. Yet even in those horrific circumstances, he made a promise to himself: he would endure, observe, and someday write a book that could help others find meaning in suffering. That sense of purpose and mindset quite literally kept him alive.

As Ben Bergeron says,

“We fear adversity and do everything we can to avoid it, even though it’s a guaranteed part of life for every species on planet Earth. It’s not a matter of if we’ll encounter it, but only a matter of when. And when we do face it, the form the adversity takes is far less important than how we respond to it.”

So, taking time for your Think bucket isn’t just about journaling or meditation—it’s about mental conditioning. It’s preparing your mind for the unknown, building resilience, and finding strength when life inevitably throws its curveballs.

How to Find Time to Think

So, how do I find time to think when life feels busier than ever? Honestly—it happened by accident. My “mom schedule” didn’t line up with my friends’ or my husband’s, so I started adventuring solo. At first, it felt awkward and even a little scary. But I laced up my hiking shoes, grabbed my furry sidekick, and went anyway.

And here’s the beautiful part—I fell in love with it. Those solo adventures became my best brainstorming sessions. That’s when my mind starts to wander, connect dots, and dream up new ideas. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my girl gang and exploring with my husband, but there’s something magical about the quiet of going alone.

So, here’s my challenge to you: time block just 20 minutes this week. Go for a walk—no podcast, no phone call, no distractions—and simply think. Let your mind wander. You might be surprised by the clarity that shows up when you finally give yourself the space for it.

How to Think

This might sound silly, but in today’s world of constant distraction and endless entertainment, many of us have actually forgotten how to think. If you followed the steps above to find the time to think, now let’s dive into how to think intentionally.

• Start with Direction
Before you let your mind wander, choose what you want to think about. Are you focusing on your life goals? Your work or business? Your health and fitness? Or maybe it’s your relationships or parenting?
Depending on my mood, I’ll direct my thoughts differently. Some days I want to think about business growth; other days, I reflect on my life, my habits, or my parenting. The key is to give your thoughts a little structure—so they’re productive, not chaotic.

• Listen to a Podcast or Audiobook (and Then Pause It)
Wait—what? Yes, sometimes my brain is spinning with the wrong kind of thoughts, and I need something to anchor me. That’s when I’ll put on a podcast or audiobook to help guide my thinking—something about mindset, business, health, or wellness.
Usually, I’ll listen for a bit, then pause it once my brain starts firing with ideas. I’ll even jot notes in my phone or email myself reminders of insights I want to implement. (Fun fact: most of these newsletters are born during those moments!)

• Questions to Get Your Brain Flowing
Here are some of my favorite prompts to help you start thinking intentionally:

🧠 Dreaming About an Epic Life

  • If you could have any life you wanted in one year, what would it look like?
  • If you were told today you had one year to live, how would you spend it—both in what you’d do and how you’d live mentally and physically?
  • If money, logistics, and fear were off the table—what would you do, where would you go, or who would you become?

💼 Thinking About Business or Work

  • What’s working well in my business or career right now?
  • What’s one thing that’s holding me back from the next level?
  • If I could only focus on three things this month that would move the needle most—what would they be?

• And of Course—Read Some Elevate Livin’ Life Newsletters 😉
You know I’ve got your back when it comes to mindset, motivation, and designing a life that feels good inside and out. Here are a few of my past favorites: 

Does Your Mind Need Work?

Growth Mindset + My Favorite Mindset Mantras

Ask yourself this: Do you live in a hostile or friendly world? Your answer says a lot about your mindset. If you tend to believe the world is against you, that people are out to get you, or that life is just one uphill battle — it might be time to work on shifting that lens. Because your mindset shapes how you see everything.

Thoughts are like clouds — they roll in, some heavy and dark, but if you don’t latch onto them, they pass and make space for light to shine through. You can’t control every thought, but you can control what you do with it. That’s the foundation of a growth mindset — learning to observe your thoughts without judgment, redirect them when needed, and remind yourself that challenges aren’t punishments, they’re opportunities.

Here are a few of my favorite mindset mantras that help me stay grounded, curious, and positive when life gets messy (or just really hard):

  • Be in the Gain, Not in the Gap — remember this one from the Train Bucket newsletter last month? Focus on how far you’ve come, not how far you have to go.
  • This is an Opportunity, Not an Obstacle — I once noticed on a mountain bike climb that I kept avoiding small, annoying rocks by going around them. In that moment, I realized, although they’re not as fun as the techy desert rocks I love, they were an opportunity to get better — to practice, to grow, to be ready for the next challenge. So, the next time you are presented with a challenge, whether big or small, I encourage you to take the harder route. If nothing else, it conditions your mind knowing you choose hard and came out on the other side. 
  • Be Curious, Not Judgmental — When things go wrong, instead of asking yourself “why me”, get curious and ask, “what can I learn?” And when you watch others do something that upsets you, before you judge them, think to yourself, “do I know their full story and situation?” Perhaps they have a justified reason for choosing the way they did…and perhaps you would have chosen the same option as well if you were in their shoes. 
  • I Get to Do This, Not Have to Do This — shift your words, shift your world. Gratitude changes everything. You get to change your babies’ diaper in the middle of night because you get to have kids, not everyone gets that. You get to go to work and provide for your family, not everyone has that opportunity. 
  • Focus on What You Can Control — your attitude, effort, and consistency are always within your power regardless of what is thrown at you. 
  • “Success is not a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.” – Unknown 

If you start applying even one of these regularly, you’ll feel your inner voice change. The goal isn’t to erase the hard stuff — it’s to meet it with strength, perspective, and gratitude.

Want to Dig Deeper?

If this Elevate Livin’ Life newsletter is singing to you and you’re craving more — more growth, more mindset shifts, more inspiration — here are some of my favorite books, podcasts, and thinkers that have helped shape how I think (and live).

📚 Books to Expand Your Mind

  • The Dream Manager — Dream big, my friends. This one will have you visualizing your ultimate life and believing it’s possible.
  • Mindset: The New Psychology of Success — The OG on growth mindset. Full of relatable stories and science-backed insights on why your mindset matters more than talent.
  • Chasing Excellence — Where the Five Factors of Health all started. Learn how elite athletes train their minds just as much as their bodies.
  • The Daily Stoic — Bite-sized wisdom that helps ground you in perspective, gratitude, and calm — one page at a time.
  • The Comfort Crisis — A life-changer that challenges you to get uncomfortable and rediscover your strength.
  • The Well-Lived Life — Beautiful lessons on purpose, longevity, and joy from a 102-year-old doctor.
  • Can’t Hurt Me — Pure mental toughness fuel. You’ll never say “I can’t” the same way again.
  • Essentialism — The art of saying no to the non-essential and creating space for what really matters.
  • The One Thing — Focus, simplicity, and massive progress — one small action at a time.
  • Atomic Habits — A must-read for anyone looking to make small changes that create huge results.
  • The Obstacle Is the Way — Okay, truthfully, I haven’t read this one yet, but I’ve heard amazing things. It’s next on my list!

📨 Newsletters & 💭 Podcasts That Make You Think

Podcasts for Life & Growth:

Podcasts for Parenting:

Podcasts for Business & Purpose:

  • Diary of a CEO — Deep, raw, and insightful interviews about life, business, and success.
  • Or, search for industry-specific podcasts that speak directly to your world — there’s gold waiting for you out there.

Wrapping It All Up

If you take nothing else away from these Elevate Livin’ Life newsletters on the Five Factors of Health — Eat, Sleep, Train, Connect, and Think — please take this:

**Be alone at least once a week for 30+ minutes and give yourself the gift of time to THINK. **

No music. No podcast. No scrolling. Just space for your own thoughts to breathe.

Build this into your life like you would any healthy habit. Make it a routine. Protect it. And as always — bonus points if you do it outside. 😊

What about you? I’d love to hear — what are your favorite podcasts, books, or mantras that help you think deeper and live better?


Thanks for reading along! 
–Kelli 

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Our Annual Mom & Kid Trip to Maui!! 

Train for Life, Not Just for Looks

“The only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.” – Unknown

You guys, last week kicked my butt. Like, whoa.

I’ve been doing CrossFit for over 13 years now, but this week? It felt like I was brand new all over again. Monday’s jumping chest-to-bar pull-ups torched my calves. Tuesday’s 100 dumbbell snatches lit up my hamstrings. Wednesday, I waved the white flag and rested. Then Thursday, heavy front squats and real chest-to-bars came back swinging. And for some reason, I thought Friday was the perfect day to toss in a bunch of core work and deadlifts. By Saturday… a hobbling mess. 🫠

And the best part? This morning I planned to write this month’s Elevate Livin’ Life Newsletter — and the topic? The Train bucket. Yep, all about fitness and movement. How fitting.

It’s been a while since we checked in on the Five Factors of Health (Eat, Sleep, Train, Think, and Connect). If you’re new here or need a refresher, you can check out [this original post] that walks you through it. I know I got a little sidetracked with finishing the discussion on these buckets (life, right?), but let’s get back to it because these five factors are foundational to a healthier — and ultimately, happier — life.

So, let’s talk about TRAIN.

Struggles at First

If you know me now, you know I love to exercise. Whether it’s lifting in the gym, hiking up a mountain, biking loops big and small, or hauling a backpack through the wilderness — I like to go, go, go. I love what movement does for my mind just as much as what it does for my body (even when I’m hobbling around sore like I am right now 😅).

But believe it or not, I wasn’t always like this.

Back in college and the years right after, I felt completely lost. I wasn’t prioritizing my health, I wasn’t consistent, and I didn’t feel good in my skin. Sure, I could jog a bit or hike a few miles, but overall I was overweight, out of shape, and drifting. I had been active by default through high school and college rec league sports — but once that structure ended, I didn’t know how to move forward. And that feeling sucked.

I tried the gym (Gold’s Gym, baby), but I had no plan. I’d float aimlessly from machine to machine or hit the stair stepper over and over again. It was boring. It was discouraging. I was trying… but I didn’t know what I was doing.

Eventually, I asked my (rather fit and knowledgeable) husband for help — and he introduced me to CrossFit. That’s where it all began to change, but still it changed slowly. And please, don’t stop reading here! This is not a newsletter to try to convince you to become a CrossFitter!! It’s so much more than that. 

CrossFit Was Not for Me (At First)

Ya’ll know how much I love CrossFit now. But when I first started — back when we lived in New Hampshire for a few years — it didn’t quite click.

I tagged along to classes with Tony, and yeah, it was better than wandering around Gold’s Gym, but I didn’t love it. I felt awkward surrounded by super-fit people, half of whom were in PT school with my husband. They were all nice, but I couldn’t help feeling a little out of place. (Totally my own insecurities — not their fault!) I was getting fitter, and it was fun-ish… but it wasn’t the obsession it is for me now.

I’m sharing this to remind you that if you’re currently feeling lost or unsure how to bring fitness into your life — you’re not alone, so here are a few things to keep in mind if that’s you right now:

💡 1. You might not like it at first — and that’s okay.
Just because something doesn’t click right away doesn’t mean it never will. And sometimes it’s not the activity that’s the issue — it’s the environment. The first CrossFit gym I went to didn’t feel like my place. Years later, I found a gym with a totally different vibe and it changed everything. So whether it’s CrossFit, spin, yoga, or pickleball… give it a chance. And try somewhere else if it doesn’t feel right.

💡 2. Starting something new usually sucks.
You’ll be sore. You’ll feel awkward. You’ll think you’re bad at it. That’s all normal. Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s wrong for you — it just means you’re at the beginning. (Spoiler alert: I couldn’t do a single pull-up when I started!)

💡 3. Find a buddy.
A class that holds you accountable, a friend to work out with in your garage, or even a weekly walking group — community is everything. It keeps you consistent and makes it way more fun. 😊 Did you know when my mom found out she was pregnant with me at 36 (which was OLD back then) she freaked out and called a good friend and convinced her to walk with her daily to get her in shape for labor, and now, 38 years later they still walk multiple times a week! 

💡 4. A pair of dumbbells goes a long way.
Seriously. You don’t need a fancy gym to get strong. A solid pair of dumbbells and a little consistency can take you further than you think. I know the PERFECT programming that works off of just one pair of dumbbells at home if you need some recommendations. 

💬 5. Got other tips?
I’d love to hear what helped you stick with fitness when you were getting started. Drop me a reply!

Finding Love (with Movement)

So… CrossFit round one? Not a love story.

Sure, I stuck with it and definitely got fitter, but it wasn’t a magical experience. After that, we moved a few times (thanks, PT school rotations), doing a mix of things: some workouts on our own, a little running, a few random classes. It was okay — but nothing really clicked.

Then we moved to Boise, and that’s when everything changed.

We joined Boise CrossFit, and even though I still carried a lot of the same insecurities I had back in New Hampshire, something finally shifted. I started working through those fears, instead of letting them define me. At first, I just wanted to get physically fit — and that happened. But what surprised me most were the mental benefits.

It was a total mindset shift. I’d always leaned toward a more fixed mindset — shying away from the hard stuff, doubting my abilities. But fitness, and especially CrossFit, taught me how to grow through challenge. I used to dread hard things. Now? I crave them. I seek them out.

And honestly, I believe that training — the hours in the gym, the miles on the trail, the sweat and soreness — prepared me for the biggest battle of my life: kicking cancer’s ass. When you train your body and your mind to face adversity every day, you build resilience that carries over into every area of life.

Okay, enough of my sappy love letter to movement. 😅

Tips to Help You Build a Fitness Life You’re Stoked On

If you’re working on creating a fitness rhythm that actually sticks (and that you maybe even look forward to), here are some of my favorite tips to get you there:

🏆 Consistency is King

  • The real game-changer is building fitness into your routine. Like brushing your teeth — you don’t question it, you just do it.
  • There will be days you don’t feel like working out. But if it’s part of your identity — part of your non-negotiables — you’ll show up anyway. That’s where the magic happens.
  • Don’t stress too much about what you’re doing at first. Focus more on just showing up regularly. Rain, snow, vacation — movement is movement.
  • Speaking of vacation: Fitness and travel can go hand-in-hand! I’ve done workouts at kids’ parks across the country, the Excalibur parking lot in Vegas, on the grass strip out front of that same hotel, in pools, and more.
  • One of my favorite things is dropping into a local gym when I travel — you meet people and see their world from the local’s perspective, and it’s honestly just fun.
  • Once you’ve built a deep fitness habit, you’ll also know when it’s okay to rest. You can take a week off without spiraling because your baseline is strong, and your habit is there waiting when you’re ready.

🌀 It Doesn’t Have to Be Pretty

  • I can’t even count how many 20-minute workouts I’ve done where even the warmup is part of the workout, and that’s okay.
  • Something is always better than nothing. Walk. Do 30 pushups. Swing a kettlebell 50 times. Just move.
  • Going to the gym for 15 minutes might not change your body — but it reinforces your identity. You’re someone who shows up and believes in the importance of movement. 
  • Bad workouts are important. It’s easy to show up when you feel great — it matters even more when you show up tired, sore, or unmotivated.

⏱ When You Truly Don’t Have the Time

  • First… are you sure? 😉 Sometimes it’s not about time, it’s about priorities. If you’re maxed out on time, try doing a mini life audit:
    • How much scrolling are you doing? 
    • How much TV are you watching?
    • Where are your pockets of time slipping away?
  • But if you’re legitimately running at max capacity with good things, try this:
    • Walk during your kids’ soccer practice. Or if you’re at home with kids, do a family workout! 
    • Do 20 air squats between stirring dinner.
    • Install a treadmill under your standing desk. Or take walks during phone meetings. 
    • Do 15 pushups while your shower warms up each day. 

      **Habit-stack your movement into what you’re already doing.**

My Favorite Fitness Mantras to Power You Up 💪

There are still days I’m not motivated. Days when I drag myself to the gym and feel sluggish. And even the days when I am motivated, there are workouts that absolutely wreck me. In those moments, I dig deep—and these are the mantras I lean on. I hope they help you too.

“I’m Not Tired, I Feel OUTSTANDING!”

One of my all-time favorites comes from Jesse Itzler. His energy is contagious, and this saying has become a family motto. My kids even know to yell “OUTSTANDING!” when I ask how they feel. It’s a mindset shift—check out the video here.

Action Over Perfection & The Only Bad Workout Is the One You Didn’t Do

Just start. Don’t overthink it. Walk out the door. Move your body. Take a push-up break at the park. Climb the stairs. Jog a few steps. Something is always better than nothing.

The Only Way Out Is Through

Once you’ve decided you’re not a quitter, this becomes your mantra. The workout might suck, but you’re not leaving. You’re just getting through it—step by step.

Consistency Is King & Discipline Over Motivation

I know I already touched on this above, but it’s worth repeating. Don’t rely on motivation—it’s flaky. Discipline is what builds your future. Be the kind of person who shows up, even on the days you don’t feel like it. You can also create a Don’t Fail Plan for yourself. If you know something might come up to cause you to not achieve your fitness plan, then tell yourself BEFORE you get there what you’ll do? Bad weather- run anyways or go to the pool for swim? Work went long- workout after the kids are in bed. Forgot your shoes- do upper body movements today. 

Be in the Gain, Not in the Gap

I’ve been loving The Gap and the Gain (more on that in a future newsletter). But here’s the gist: don’t focus on where you aren’t—celebrate how far you’ve come. It’s okay to dream, but don’t let that dream steal your joy from the present.

Pull From Your Cookie Jar

David Goggins fans, you’ll get this one. When you do hard things, you create a “cookie jar” of resilience. And when the next challenge shows up? You pull from that jar. I think back to chemo, to the brutal days during treatment—and remind myself: if I got through that, I can get through this.

I also had ChatGPT to design a pretty little infographic for you with all these sayings. Print it. Stick it on your fridge. Tape it to your mirror. These aren’t just workout mantras—they’re life mantras. 💥

Finding Grace Through Life’s Changes:

I’ve had my fair share of surgeries and medical procedures in the past ten years. From my 2015 cancer journey of chemo, surgeries, etc. to two pregnancies, to hysterectomy and more. And I’ve also aged over the past ten years (obviously). Through all these different phases I have discovered a few things with exercise. 

1. As best you can, roll with the changes and accept them rather than fight them. Listen to your doctors and physical therapists but also listen to your body. They know what is generally the acceptable things to do during these times (surgeries, recovery, etc) yet they also are learning all the time by people showing there is more that can be accomplished. During my cancer treatment, I worked out frequently but set very few PRs. I climbed a 12,000 footer and mountain biked regularly. But I also had times that I overdid it, like that one day my sister in law was visiting and we had a super fun time pushing each other in the gym, until hours later it hit me and I was lay up and a total mess for hours from accidentally overdoing it. Oops. 

2. When I turned 35 I was determined to still be strong and fit, especially in my “CrossFit” world. I remember being bullheaded to go hard in every workout, do all the prescribed weights and not let myself “fall behind” just because I was older, old enough that CrossFit now considered me apart of the “masters” age divisions. I’d show them. Well… they showed me.  They showed me there is a reason they made these divisions and different age groups (35-39, 40-44, etc). Because each of those 5 years, things really CAN change. They don’t always change but they might and it’s okay. Now, my swolemate and I love to text each other our times for the workout and talk about how that might be the only workout this week we go at that high intensity. The conversations I have with my other girlfriends revolve around “man, I went on an epic hike yesterday, but today I’m going to get a massage and do yoga tomorrow.” Yes, there are some weeks we go big over and over and over again and it’s fun, but we know it’s not ongoing all the time as it’s not sustainable. 

3. As they (whoever they are) has said, “when one door closes another door opens”. So lately my strength numbers are sooooooo low. I used to be able to Clean & Jerk 205# and these days I’m lucky if I could hit 175#. But, I can hike farther and faster than the past Kelli. And even if I couldn’t, it’s a part of life to change what you’re able to do and take it gracefully. NOW, that’s not to say it’s time to let yourself slip into doing nothing. That’s a really bad plan! 🙂 

Wrapping It Up

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how you move — what matters is that you do. Movement is a gift, and building a consistent practice around it can unlock confidence, clarity, energy, and resilience you didn’t know you had. Whether you’re lifting heavy in the gym, going for a walk at lunch, chasing your kids on bikes, or hiking up a mountain, every bit of movement is a deposit into your health bank.

So let this be your nudge, reminder, or loving kick in the butt to get moving in a way that feels good to YOU. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t worry if it doesn’t look “perfect.” You’ll be amazed what can happen when you just keep showing up. Oh and if you need a little motivation, join the McCall Streak (sorry fellas, ladies only) to get you motivated over the next few months! And if you need a recommendation of a guru with programming fitness for your goals, check out my buddy Ryan at RDH Endurance. 

You got this — and I’ll be cheering for you every rep, step, and breath of the way. 💪❤️

Until next time,
Kelli

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Chasing Fall Colors Through Washington Mountains…and unexpected Snow!

You Won’t Know Unless You Go 

The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” – Joseph Campbell

You Won’t Know Unless You Go:

It was a stormy Friday—cooler temps, sprinkling rain, and thunder rumbling in the distance. Not exactly ideal weather for heading out on a family backpacking trip. But August in Idaho is known for fast-moving mountain storms, so we kept packing, hopeful it would pass.

We drove 45 minutes to the trailhead under swirling dark skies, radar in hand, thinking maybe it wouldn’t rain for long… and hopefully no lightning. But the moment we stepped out of the car—CRACK! A massive boom echoed across the sky. Lovely, Thunder, Lightning, Mighty Mighty Frightening! 

The trail we’d planned was short and sweet, but also totally exposed—not exactly where you want to be in an electrical storm with two young kids and a thunder-sensitive dog. So, we pivoted. We found a random backcountry restaurant serving pizza, salad bar, and even the game Operation (big win for the kids!). As we drove there, the skies opened up. Torrential downpour. Hail. Blinding sheets of rain. Lightning bolts flashing all around. We were so glad we hadn’t started hiking.

And still—I wasn’t mad we made the trip out to the trailhead. Because the truth is: you won’t know unless you go. And guess what else happened?! After dinner, the skies cleared completely. Not a cloud in sight and radar confirmed a single storm cell had rolled through—right after we’d checked earlier. Go figure.

It was 8 p.m. by the time we got back to the trailhead, but we decided to hike in anyway. The trail was wet (okay, soaked), our pants and dog got drenched, but wow—the light. That soft, glowy, golden light. Everything was green, lush, and peaceful. It reminded me: yes, be safe and smart in the mountains—but don’t let fear always call the shots. Sometimes you have to take the risk, because the beauty and magic you find might just be worth it.

And honestly? Sometimes the chaos is the memory.

It’s Worth the Pain:

After that magical golden-lit hike into camp, I’ll be honest—the shine started to wear off fast. It was getting late, all the best campsites were taken (WTH?!), and it was dark, wet, and cold. The kids were doing great, full of energy and excitement, which also meant they were a handful and not particularly helpful. The dogs kept trying to sneak into the tent, soaking wet and muddy. Tony and I? We were cranky, annoyed, and seriously questioning our life choices. Why do we think this is fun again? 

We could’ve stayed home, had a cozy dinner, and called it a night. But instead, we crammed into the tent, laughed our butts off at our new dog Harry sleeping on top of me, and bonded through the chaos. No, we didn’t get a great night’s sleep—but we had a memorable one. And we woke up to a beautiful mountain lake. That’s why.

The next day, we bushwhacked to another lake about a mile away. The kids trudged through bushes up to their waists (or necks!) in good spirits, fueled by their new obsession: fishing. All was going pretty great—until Charlie had an emotional, sassy meltdown. These days, her breakdowns are less kicking and crying and more teenager vibes. Lord help us when we get to the real teenage years.

Tony and I passed her back and forth like a hot potato, trying to navigate this new world of pre-teen parenting. In those hard moments, the same doubts creep in: Why do we do this? Is anyone even having fun? Is she going to ruin it for everyone? But, just like life, we worked through it. We came out stronger—and Charlie caught three gorgeous brook trout! The lake was full of frogs, snakes, and zero people. Pure Idaho magic.

That night, our friends hiked in to join us. It was their first ever family backpacking trip—with two kids under five, one of them just 18 months old. I was blown away by their determination. And even though their tent echoed with cries all night (thank you, earplugs), they were smiling, mostly, the next morning. When I asked if it was worth it, they both said yes—because they’ve had harder nights at home, and the memories from these 24 hours were worth every challenge.

So here’s your reminder: if you’re debating doing something hard, something messy, something that might include a bit of suck—do it anyway. You’ll catch up on sleep later. And you’ll be so grateful you went and lived and didn’t let the hard parts stop you from the beautiful ones.

You Can Do Hard Things:

The day after we hiked out, we headed to a birthday party for one of the kids’ close friends. There, I got to chatting with a woman who shared how she’s always wanted to try backpacking with her family. That opened up a conversation about how she’s a teacher, has a beautiful family cabin less than three hours away, and has dreamed of taking her kids there in the summer—but has always been too nervous to go alone.

I was shocked. Not in a judgmental or mean way, but just truly surprised that something like a solo drive with her (not-so-young) kids to a familiar, safe place was holding her back. My heart hurt for her. I immediately wanted to pull out my planner and set a date to go with her and show her: you’ve got this.

Because yes, it’s hard. Traveling solo with kids in tow is a challenge. But it’s also so worth it. And guess what? You can do hard things. Truly. Most of the time, you can figure it out as you go. You don’t need to have every step mapped perfectly. You just need to start.

I recently heard a podcast that offered two gems I can’t stop thinking about:

  1. Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean you’re bad at it.
    New things are supposed to feel uncomfortable and awkward. That doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re learning and growing. Keep going, and it will get easier.
  2. Ask yourself, “What could go right?”
    We’re so good at running through all the worst-case scenarios. But what if, instead, you made a list of what could go well? One family’s favorite quote was:“Mentally play with the idea of complete and inevitable success.”
    It’s not about guaranteeing success. It’s about allowing yourself to imagine what’s possible—without getting paralyzed by the fear of failure OR the fear of success. When you play with the idea of things going well, you loosen the grip of fear and open the door to action.

So, just like I said earlier—you won’t know unless you go. Try it. Say yes to the hard thing. Even if it doesn’t go perfectly, it might still be more rewarding than doing nothing at all.

When Lightning Strikes:

We may have lucked out on our family backpacking trip—sneaking in after one storm and out before the next—but that wasn’t the case on our anniversary trip. Tony and I set off on a 4-day backpacking adventure into a remote, unfamiliar part of Idaho, and it was amazing. I was so excited, but also a little nervous. It was fire season. There was spotty service. And the forecast? A casual 50% chance of thunderstorms.

But we weren’t going to cancel a rare 4-day trip over maybe weather. We’d go for it and deal with whatever came.

Thankfully, luck was still on our side during the day. We finished our hikes before the rain came—though I did end up cooking dinner under a tree in a full downpour after an 11-hour day of hiking (not ideal, but survivable). At least it wasn’t raining when we were exposed at 10,000 feet.

That night though—whew. At 2 a.m., we were jolted awake by the slow rumble of thunder, and for the next 45 minutes the sky lit up with one of the biggest, wildest storms I’ve ever witnessed. It was loud, bright, and terrifying.

There we were: middle of the night, middle of nowhere, in fire season, with lightning cracking all around our little lake basin. My brain went wild:
What if lightning strikes us?
What if it starts a fire?
How fast do wildfires travel?
What if a rockslide starts?
What if a tree falls on us?

And my body? Fully betrayed me. I was shaking uncontrollably, like a terrified dog who can’t stop trembling—fully alert, adrenaline pumping. Meanwhile, Tony was just… enjoying the show.  

We obviously survived the night just fine. But the next morning, I was a little mad at myself. We had this rare opportunity to be completely immersed in a thunderstorm—something wild and intense and real—and I let fear steal that from me. I spent those 45 minutes spiraling in worry instead of surrendering to awe.

I’d just read a passage in The Daily Stoic about this exact thing. About how we ruin the present moment by ruminating on what might go wrong. We double our suffering—first in worry, then (maybe) in reality. Instead, we should choose to experience the now, and let the future unfold when it arrives.

So yeah, Silly Kelli. But also, another lesson in letting go of what you can’t control… and leaning into the moment, even when lightning strikes.

Changing Your Situations When You Can:

Even though I said I regretted how freaked out I was during that thunderstorm, I wasn’t exactly eager to relive the experience.

So, when Sunday rolled around—the final night of our anniversary backpacking trip—and we saw rain and more thunderstorms in the forecast, I had a choice. The hike that day was short, and we had planned to get back to camp early for a chill day. I had my heart set on laying in the hammock with a great book, playing a little cribbage (and obviously crushing Tony ;)), and just soaking up one last peaceful afternoon in the mountains.

But the thought of another cold downpour, getting stuck in a tiny tent for hours, and another possible thunderstorm… nope. That didn’t sound like a relaxing finale. Add in the fact that Monday was going to be a beast: a 4-hour hike out, a 7-hour drive, and all the chaos of packing up. So, we pivoted.

We decided to pack up camp and hike out Sunday afternoon, even if it meant hiking in the rain. It felt like the smarter choice.

Turns out? It didn’t rain. It was beautiful. And I found myself slightly kicking myself for leaving that stunning mountain lake and missing my final hammock/book/cribbage moment.

I almost let myself believe I had ruined the end of our trip…
Or so I thought. 

Pivoting Can Be the Right Call Though:

Since it was our 15-year wedding anniversary, we decided to splurge and stay in a hotel for a night. I figured we’d find something around $100–$150 in Stanley on a Sunday night. But nope. Everything we found was $300+. And I was cranky. I’m a cheapskate at heart, okay?

So I told Tony that even though we’d be arriving late, I didn’t want to spend that much—we could just set up our tent again. Thankfully, Tony gently talked me out of that plan. And then… jackpot! When he went to book the room, the front desk gal mentioned they had one last room for just $200. WINNER WINNER! I was so stoked. And let me tell you—after four days in the backcountry, that hot shower? 100% worth it.

But the night kept getting better.

We were starving. It was 8:30 p.m. in a small mountain town on a Sunday. You know what that means?—everything’s either closed or closing. We were this close to heating up freeze-dried meals in our fancy cabin but we decided to do a quick drive to town to see if anything was open. 

At the last second, we spotted the Sawtooth Hotel & Restaurant still serving, so we pulled in and they agreed to seat us. But of course, I sat down, looked at the menu, and panicked again. Plates were $30+ each. Fancy. Pricey. Not my vibe. (Someone, please teach me how to be okay spending money on fancy things. )

But then, Harry happened.

Our new Australian Shepherd—who we inherited from Gina—is basically famous everywhere we go. Everyone LOVES Harry. Sure enough, this sweet family came over to pet him, then stayed and chatted with us for ten minutes. We told them it was our anniversary and that we’d been backpacking to celebrate, and tonight we were splurging a little.

They were in awe that we thought hiking around the wilderness for four days was fun, but also kind of impressed. We all smiled and moved on with our evening.

And then… 30 minutes later… they came back.

To say goodbye. And to tell us—dinner was on them.

They wanted to treat us for our anniversary. I’m literally tearing up just writing this. It was one of the kindest, most unexpected acts of generosity I’ve experienced. And yes, we joked that Harry scored us a free dinner—or maybe Gina was watching from heaven, pulling some strings. ❤️

The Takeaway

So yeah… long story, but I just wanted to say—pivoting your plans can be pretty amazing too. I let fear nudge us to leave the backcountry early. But that pivot? It was exactly what we needed.

On Monday, we had a slow morning in our cozy cabin. We eased into our day. We journeyed home with time to spare. And we weren’t frazzled or exhausted rolling into the week ahead.

So next time life—or your adventure—throws you a curveball, don’t be afraid to make a new plan. You never know what magic might be waiting on the other side. Just don’t let fear completely derail your experience. You can work through the “what ifs.” And maybe, just maybe, you’ll end up with a  bucket list trip achieved, followed by a hot shower, a surprise celebration dinner… and a reminder that everything works out.

So… what’s on your list?

What’s that thing you’ve been wanting to do that feels a little scary, risky, or brand new? I’d love to hear it! Seriously—send it my way. I’ll happily offer encouragement, tips, or maybe even a story from my own “what was I thinking?!” files to help inspire you to go for it.

Because I promise—you’ll be glad you did.

As always, thanks for reading along. I hope you find a way to chase your own version of adventure, whether it’s bold and wild or slow and simple. I’ll be cheering you on from the sidelines… or maybe even right beside you. (Just no lightning, please :))

–Kelli

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
2nd Family Backpacker- and the kids’ determination to make it to this lake when we wanted to turn them back! 

I wasn’t sure I should share this…

But maybe it’s the reminder we all need- to love, to speak up, to Live Life.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”  -A.A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh

Recently, my kiddos were making jewelry with my mom when Jackson picked up a charm and asked, “What does this one say?” It read, Live Life and without missing a beat, he said, “I want this one for Nonna.” Nonna—who, eight weeks ago, passed away after nearly two years of fighting cancer.

It was the sweetest, most caring gesture… and also heart-wrenching. My blunt, to-the-point 7-year-old daughter gently reminded him, “You can’t give it to Nonna… remember, she’s not here anymore?” Jackson paused for a second and said, “I want to put it with her ashes when we spread them.” Even typing that brings tears to my eyes.

And for the past 24 hours, I’ve been thinking about it. About life (as always), and death, and Jackson’s simple wish—to give a charm that says Live Life to someone who’s no longer here. It’s a stark and powerful reminder for the rest of us—those still here, still breathing, still able—to actually live.

Regrets, Even With Time to Prepare

We had 19 months—from diagnosis to death. Nineteen months to cram in what we felt was truly important in someone’s final chapter of life.

Of course, we had no idea we’d only get 19 months. Sometimes it felt like we only had a few. Other times, we believed we might still have years. Cancer is a brutal, unpredictable rollercoaster. But we did what we could to maximize the time we had, just in case.

That said—let’s be real—it’s incredibly hard to live every single day like it’s your last. I know, I know… that’s what I preach in this Elevate Livin’ Life newsletter. I believe in it with my whole heart. But even so, I’ve come to accept that you can’t always live like you’re dying.

Why? Because most days… you’re not. You still have to go to work. Do the laundry. Pay the bills. Prep the meals. Keep up with life. And that’s what happened with Gina too. We knew we should be having all the deep conversations. We knew we should be taking more trips, spending slower time together, painting, laughing, dreaming. But we were still living life—trying to pace ourselves, trying to keep going, in case we had more time than expected. And now, of course, we look back and wish we had taken that trip to see the Chicago Bears play in the fall. We wish we had stopped running around like crazy and just sat still together. We wish we had read her life journal with her, asked more questions, listened longer because when we read it now, there’s more to these stories that aren’t written in the pages and we’ll never know them.

I don’t know the perfect answer. I still believe in living like it’s your last day—but I’ve learned you also have to survive the day-to-day. So, maybe it’s not about living every day like it’s your last, but instead making sure your days aren’t completely void of the things that would matter most if it was.

Here are a few thoughts I’ve landed on—my working list of “try-this-instead” wisdom:

  • Be brave enough to have the hard conversations. (More on that below.)
  • Don’t wait. Say yes to at least one bucket list trip a year or thing you’ve always wanted to do. Stop playing the “someday-maybe” game.
  • Blend your days. Fit in the mundane (because life), but make sure there’s at least one little soul-filling thing in the mix every day.
  • Be your own assistant the night before. Prep yourself for a smoother, more intentional day.
  • Front-load joy. Tackle the fun or meaningful stuff first—it’s easier to push it aside than the dishes.
  • Time block—and protect the s* out of it. If something matters, make space for it like it’s your job.
  • Ask the questions now. Don’t wait for a better moment—if something is on your mind now, speak up before it’s too late. 
  • Make space for slowness. Not every moment has to be epic. A quiet coffee on the porch or folding laundry together while chatting can be just as sacred.
  • Drop the guilt. You can’t do it all, and you’re not supposed to. Try to focus more on presence than perfection.

Handling the Last Time of Doing What You Love
In early May, we took Gina to see her horse, Cocoa—her loyal companion that she visited weekly but hadn’t ridden in a long time. That day, though, she felt strong enough to get up on that horse and take a few laps around the barn. I’ll never forget the look on her face: pure joy, pride, and peace. We all knew it would probably be the last time she’d ever ride. And how do you even begin to cope with that? Both as the person doing the thing for the last time, and as someone witnessing it?

I think about this sometimes during my workouts at CrossFit—when I’m lifting heavy or grinding through a benchmark workout. I wonder: will this be the strongest I’ll ever be? Will I always be a little slower from here on out? When will my last bike ride be? When will I no longer be able to pedal up a mountain and gleefully fly down the other side? When will I hike for the last time from dawn to dusk, exploring some wild new place? Hopefully not for many decades—but truthfully, we never know. So… do we rush to do more of them now? Well, that’s a loaded question for another day.

Back to that morning at the barn—Gina handled it with grace, joy, and tears. She hugged Cocoa and cried. She smiled so big it made us all cry too. It was beautiful. It was heartbreaking. It was honest. That’s the thing about life—you take the highs with the lows and just keep showing up, trying your best to soak it all in as you go.

And of course, having a 5-year-old allergic to horses added to the mood. Jackson has never ridden Cocoa because even being near her usually gives him hives. But that morning, we let him hop up and be part of this special memory, even knowing what was coming. And just look at his face—pure happiness and stoke level of 10… followed shortly by a puffy red face and watery eyes. Totally worth it.

Going Out with a Bang
Even though Gina had stage 4 cancer and we knew we were nearing the end of our treatment options, her oncologist believed we still had one or two lines of defense left. In May, we scheduled the next step: radiation to the brain, set to begin June 11th. She was feeling good—really good—and truly living in those final weeks.

From that unforgettable early May ride on Cocoa, to a spontaneous bucket list trip we surprised her with (flights to Seattle, a road trip to the Hoh Rainforest, Olympic National Park, and the Tree of Life <–pictured above), to a mini family reunion on June 6th—Gina packed a whole lot of life into her last month. It was bold. It was beautiful. And then—bam—it all changed. So fast.

We went from taking a mellow nature walk in McCall with her on Sunday, June 1st… to needing a walker by Thursday… to doing our best to enjoy the reunion that weekend while watching her body rapidly shut down. By Monday, June 9th, she was in a wheelchair, and we were sitting in the oncologist’s office trying to figure out what was happening. Her team was baffled. They were sure something else—like an infection—had to be causing the sudden decline. But after tests, the answer was clear: it was the cancer. And this was it.
I’m not particularly religious, but I can’t help but wonder if her parents—both long gone—were up there in Heaven pulling some strings to make her transition quicker, easier, less painful. Because as hard and shocking as it was to go from hopeful treatment to hospice in the span of a week, we also saw it as a blessing. She lived fiercely to the end, and she didn’t suffer long. That was a gift. Gosh, that made me tear up again typing those words. 

Death Isn’t as Scary as I Thought

Dying wasn’t what I expected. I’ll be honest—I had never seen someone die before, and I was nervous. For months, we talked about where it might happen and who would be there. In my mind, I pictured us sitting quietly around her, holding hands, crying together in the final hours or days. And while moments like that certainly happened, there was so much more to it.

There was laughter. There was even joy. There were games—because we’re a card-playing family—and we made sure to set up around Gina so she could still be part of the action. There were walks with the dogs. Workouts. Errands. Life, in all its ordinary beauty, kept moving alongside the grief.

And there were also the tears, the long hugs, the deep conversations, and the storytelling. So much storytelling. I’m endlessly grateful I was brave enough to go be there—to join Tony and his aunts and uncles for those final days. It wasn’t easy, but it was a gift I’ll never forget.

So if someone you know is dying, and you’re scared or unsure whether to show up: go. Don’t be afraid to be there. It won’t be perfect. It won’t be clean. But it will be real. And you won’t regret it.

Saying Goodbye

How do you say goodbye to someone when you know—like, really know—it’s the last time you’ll ever see them? Let me tell you, that s*** is real. It’s raw. And it’s so uncomfortable. Honestly, I almost didn’t do it. Saying an official goodbye felt too vulnerable, too intense, too awkward.

But I had a boost from my husband, who sat down with me to do it too. We cried. We made promises. We hugged. And even though Gina had been mostly unresponsive for days, she made it very clear she could hear every word we were saying. Even just typing that brings the tears back. It was one of the most emotionally intense things I’ve ever experienced—but also one of the most beautiful.

I’m so, so grateful I was brave enough to speak out loud what she meant to me.

So here’s my message to you: if someone you love is dying, and you feel even a little tug in your heart to say something—do it. Be brave. Say the things. Even if it’s just a text or a note someone can read to them. Or just holding their hand if the words are too hard to speak, it will mean more than you know—to them and to you.

Honestly, I felt the pictures above and these few topics were too personal to share and I debated over and over again about changing them out for different “nicer” photos, or removing this section completely. But I kept thinking about if I had read something like this months ago, it would have helped me prepare and be not so scared to be apart of the end, and also know how important it would be. So I’m laying it all out there for you, one of you out there reading this message who might be preparing for the death of a loved one. Be vulnerable yet be in the moment and be there, you won’t regret it.

Jackson’s Wish to Live Life

After I found some peace with my goodbye to Gina, it was time to return to life and parenting. I headed home while Tony stayed with his family to be with Gina until the end. Even though hospice told us she’d likely pass within 24–48 hours, Gina held on for another five days. In the end, it was just her babies—Tony and Becca—by her side during those final days. They cared for her, loved her, and were with her when she passed away on June 20th, 2025.

Now, almost eight weeks later, we’re still riding the waves of life—especially after losing someone so close. We think about her often, we talk about her, and we feel the grief show up in both expected and unexpected ways. It’s hard, especially with younger kiddos who are still trying to understand it all. But even in the heaviness, there’s beauty—like Jackson’s comment about wanting to leave the “Live Life” necklace when we spread Gina’s ashes.

So now I will be making one of those necklaces. Because it’s a powerful reminder to live this one life we’ve been given.

Whatever you feel called to do—do it.
Whatever you need to support your life—go get that too.
Whatever you’ve been dreaming about—make space for it.

Forget the idea of perfect balance. Just find ways to weave a little bit of it all into your everyday life. A bit of what fuels your soul, alongside what simply must get done. Don’t wait. Don’t tell yourself you’ll start living after you retire—because, heartbreakingly, not everyone gets to retire.

Book the trip.
Start the course you’ve always wanted to take.
Leave the laundry and the dishes for a minute and go lay in a hammock with your kids.

Take a little time, in between all the to-dos, to truly LIVE LIFE.

As always, thanks for reading along. There’s a lot of deeply personal stuff in this one—things I wasn’t sure were appropriate to share—but, well, I’m quite the open book (if you couldn’t tell 😊). And more importantly, I believe this is the kind of thing that should be shared.

Because if I had read something like this months ago, I think it would have helped me. Helped me see the importance of finding the courage to have the hard conversations. To not be afraid of being around death. To still find ways to Live Life in the midst of all the chaos.

So if this helps even one of you do the same—find your courage, face something hard, or simply remember to embrace life—then I will gladly keep sharing these raw and real moments.

Here’s to Elevate Livin’ Life.
– Kelli

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month: Backpacking in Idaho in a New to Us Area – It was AMAZING!!!

Summer’s Calling—Will You Answer? 📞

“And at the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy, and your eyes sparkling.” -Shanti

Alright y’all, you’ve probably gathered by now just how much I love a good schedule. Time blocking, daily routines, consistent habits—I’m here for all of it. One of my biggest non-negotiables is going to bed early so I can wake up refreshed and ready to kick butt all day long… well, at least until about 8 p.m., when those early wakeups finally catch up with me.

But here’s the thing—it’s summertime. My favorite season. The days are long, and I’m here for it… mostly. I still wake up early, but unlike winter, I’m not tired by 8 p.m. anymore. Is it the endless daylight? My obsession with summer and its fleeting magic? Or just mountain-town living where we only get a few golden months to soak it all in?

I recently heard a friend say, “These are the months where we stay up late, wake up early, and try to rally all day long.” That really stuck with me. It made me wonder—maybe this summer surge isn’t just a personal thing. Maybe we’re biologically wired for it. In winter, we naturally cozy up and wind down early. But summer? Maybe it’s our primal instinct kicking in—back in our hunter-gatherer days, this was go-time: long days to fish, forage, work the land, and move our bodies.

So the question becomes: How do we maximize these long summer days without burning out? Keep reading for some of my favorite seasonal wellness tips and ways to make the most of this wild, light-filled time of year. 🌞

Lean Into the Summer Chaos:

Tip number one? When in Rome. If you feel pulled to do, do, do—then heck yes, go do! If late-night campfires with the family, spontaneous drinks with friends on a Wednesday, summer concerts, impromptu camping trips, and early morning adventures light you up, then lean in and enjoy the ride.

Will you feel a little burned out come fall? Maybe. But once the cold, rainy days hit, you’ll be so glad you squeezed every drop out of summer. So my first piece of advice? Say yes. Say yes to fun, to connection, to memories, and to living like it’s your favorite season—because it is. 😊

The Little Things Add Up:

Okay, summer is here and you’re maximizing the days—heck yes, go you! But with all this fun, you might not be getting as much sleep as usual. So here’s the deal: if sleep is taking a hit, do your best to maintain the other pillars of the health and wellness spectrum I always talk about—Eat, Sleep, Train, Think, Connect. Life is about balance, and when one area dips, you can still support your overall wellness by keeping the others steady.

Summer socializing is amazing, but let’s be real—it often throws our eating routines out the window. Between road trip snacks (hello gas station goodies 🙋‍♀️) and spontaneous ice cream runs, it’s easy to go full chaos mode. So here’s my trick: I try to anchor the day with little healthy choices that add up. Eat the carrots before the chips. Say yes to the late-night ice cream with the kids, but also say yes to a solid egg scramble the next morning instead of syrup-soaked pancakes. I’m learning it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can have fun and fuel yourself.

Also—did you know summer sleep struggles aren’t just about longer daylight? Warmer temps can totally throw off your sleep cycle too. If you’re like me and live in the mountains (with no A/C 🙃), now’s your friendly reminder to prep your sleep setup. Get those fans or swamp coolers ready so your room stays at that sweet sleep temperature. Trust me, it’ll help you recover and keep that summer stoke alive.

Listen to Your Body:

Along the same lines—don’t let fitness completely fall off your radar. The good news? In the summer, it’s usually easier to stay active just by getting outside and moving. But if you’re someone who transforms into the most social butterfly ever (🙋‍♀️) and those late-night dinners and concerts make it hard to get up for your usual early morning workouts, you might need a plan. Try setting 2–3 non-negotiable workout days each week. And don’t forget—workouts can look different this time of year, and that’s totally okay.

Personally, I’m usually a die-hard CrossFitter, hitting the gym 4–5 days a week. But in the summer? That drops to 3… maybe 4… and sometimes even 2. 😬 Every year, it stresses me out a little, but I remind myself that I’m trading that gym time for tons of hiking, biking, paddleboarding, and just being active outdoors in general.

This summer, I’m really trying to listen to my body more. Take this morning: I had already done two hikes and two CrossFit workouts this week, and I had a 4-hour mountain bike ride planned for the afternoon. Normally, I would’ve still gone to the 6 a.m. class and doubled up. But today, I set my alarm for 5:40 a.m. and stretched instead—something that’s soooo hard for me, because I’m always itching to jump into “doing mode” as soon as I wake up. But my body was clearly asking for a slower start, and I’m learning to honor that.

Maximize Rainy Days:

Did you know studies show people are actually more productive at work on rainy days than on sunny ones? And if you live in Idaho, you know we’re spoiled with a lot of sunshine during the summer. But at some point… you do have to work, right? (Okay, that’s a deeper topic for another newsletter, but let’s assume for now the answer is yes.)

So here’s the tip: pull out your weather app and look ahead. Any rainy days in the forecast? Great—start time-blocking that day for deep-focus work projects, home organizing, house cleaning, or that one task you’ve been putting off for months. Rainy days can be golden for productivity—if you’re ready for them.

And even if there’s no actual rain in sight, maybe you need to create your own metaphorical rainy day. Set aside one day each week to catch up—not just on work, but on life. This could mean getting household chores done, grocery shopping, organizing, or even slowing down to rest and recover. You’ve likely spent the other six days going hard with adventures, travel, and socializing. Your body and brain might just need a reset. Sleep in. Stretch. Refuel. It’s not lazy—it’s strategic.

Turn That TV Off:

If you’re going hard all day long, I know how tempting it is to crash on the couch and throw on a Netflix show. But here’s my advice: go to bed instead. Rest when you can so you’re ready to say yes to those spontaneous moments—whether it’s a late-night dinner with friends or “watching the stars come out” with your kiddos. Save your energy for memories, not mindless scrolling.

I’ll admit though, sometimes I’m just done and want nothing more than to curl up for a family movie night. In fact, we’ve tried to plan it twice recently…and both times it didn’t happen because the kids got so caught up playing outside. One night they were building a fort in the backyard, the other they were running wild through the sprinklers. I was tired and honestly kind of bummed we didn’t get to just relax—but my heart was so full seeing them choose the outdoors over screens. That kind of magic doesn’t happen often. So when it does, I’m all in. 🌙

Summer Wellness Tips to Thrive (Not Just Survive!)

I asked ChatGPT about studies on humans and summertime, and it offered up this adorable and spot-on list of wellness tips. They felt so aligned with what I try to live by—and share with y’all—I just had to include them here!

1. Get Outside Early
Start your day with some sunshine. Whether it’s a quick walk, morning hike, or sipping coffee on the porch, morning light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, boosts your mood, and gives you a natural energy kick.

2. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Hot temps + more activity = dehydration sneaks up fast. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily—and more if you’re sweating it out on trails or yard work duty.

3. Create a “Summer Evening Ritual”
Instead of defaulting to chores or screens, create a wind-down routine you actually love—sunset paddles, journaling in the backyard, reading in a hammock…whatever feels dreamy.

4. Keep Bedtime (Mostly) Consistent
Yes, the long days are magical—but sleep still matters. Aim to go to bed within 30–60 minutes of your usual time, even after a lake day or backyard BBQ.

5. Eat Seasonally & Simply
Load up on fresh berries, leafy greens, grilled veggies—whatever your local farmers market is bursting with. Your digestion and your taste buds will thank you.

6. Microadventures = Macro Joy
You don’t need a plane ticket to feel alive. A sunrise bike ride, after-dinner SUP, or spontaneous hike with a friend can bring huge joy with minimal planning.

7. Soak Up Social Time
We’re naturally more social in summer, so lean in! Host a potluck, say yes to the picnic, or invite a neighbor for a coffee walk.

8. Let Yourself Play
Summer’s the season of childlike joy. Blow bubbles. Jump in the lake fully clothed. Build a sandcastle. Let go of “productive” and say yes to fun.

9. Protect Your Skin (and Your Energy)
Sunshine is glorious—but don’t forget your SPF, shades, and shade breaks. And hey, if you need a reset, a nap in a cool, dark room can work wonders.

10. Savor the Season
Pause long enough to feel the moment—sun on your face, kids laughing in the yard, a fresh peach so juicy it drips down your chin. These are the golden memories you’re making now. 💛

I want to hear from YOU!
It seriously means the world when you respond and share what’s going on in your life—I’m always so fascinated by how different people spend their days and seasons.

So tell me:
🌞 What are your favorite summertime activities?
🌿 Do you thrive during summer… or crash and burn a bit?
🌅 What little things light you up during these longer days?
⛱️ And where do you struggle when the season gets chaotic?

Thanks for reading along, and I hope your summer is off to an absolutely magical start!
—Kelli 💛✨

Survey to Elevate Our Lives TOGETHER

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
June was full of a few mini-adventures but mostly special family time. 

I’ve Created A Monster 😬

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” -Dr. Seuss

I’ve created a monster. Actually, two of them. They’re 5 and 7, and they’ve officially been bitten by the adventure and travel bug. What have I done?! 😅

The World is Your Oyster, Kids…Well, Actually Idaho This Time:

As you may know, Memorial Day weekend gave us a glorious four-day break here in McCall. My husband was off on a very special trip with his mom and sister to Olympic National Park (a bucket list dream for his mom, Gina). So, I was home solo-parenting my heathens—err, I mean my charming and delightful children. 😉

Not one to sit around and miss out on the fun, I gave the kids three choices:
1️⃣ Go camping in the mountains/forests
2️⃣ Head south to explore ice caves, waterfalls, and a “city” made of rocks
3️⃣ Stay home for playdates and enjoy our beautiful town

They picked Option 2… as long as we didn’t “have to poop in the woods,” according to Jackson (clearly still traumatized from last summer’s backpacking trip where we forgot the toilet paper 😬—my bad, bud).

So, off we went—ready for another grand adventure!

Can’t We Just Stay Home?

Then life happened. You know—work, school events, preschool graduation, volunteer gigs… all the things. I got overwhelmed. And, truthfully? I started second-guessing our trip. Did I really want to leave beautiful McCall to head for the farmlands of southern Idaho? (Apologies to all the Twin Falls fans out there.)

I kept going back and forth, even asking those little monsters if they’d be okay just staying home. They considered it—only if we didn’t get sucked into doing house chores. Fair point, kiddos. Honestly, I agreed. Safer to just leave the house entirely.

But I was still unsure whether this trip was actually worth it. The stuff we were headed to see sounded kinda cool… but it also involved a lot of driving through not-so-scenic areas. Why did I offer up this itinerary? 🤦‍♀️
And why are they so stubbornly committed to adventuring? (Okay, okay—I might know where they get it from.)

Malad Gorge to the Rescue:

I was deep in a melancholy mood on the drive down—grumpy about leaving the mountains behind and trading them for the flatlands, especially when McCall was showing off with perfect weather. But then I spotted one of those big brown “Scenic Attraction” signs and, on a whim, pulled over and herded the kids out of the car to check out Malad Gorge.

Instantly, my mood started to lift—and I remembered why I love to travel. The kids were ecstatic. They thought the bridge was awesome and cracked up when Ember pup was not a fan of it. We wandered to another viewpoint and spotted lizards—jackpot! They’re always obsessed with lizard hunting. Charlie, who’s recently fallen in love with photography, was snapping shots left and right.

We soaked in views of Devil’s Washbowl waterfall, the canyon edge, and even stumbled upon more critters: cool bugs, a fluffy bunny, and (of course) more lizards. Their energy and excitement pulled me right out of my funk. It might not have been the mountains, but it was an adventure. We were exploring. We were together. And that’s what mattered.

Let’s Watch the Stars Come Out:

Any Berenstain Bears fans out there? Remember when Mama Bear says, “We’ll watch the stars come out,” as a wholesome alternative to watching Too Much TV? Yep, big nerds over here in the Day household—that line has stuck with me though. And it kept popping into my head during this trip, especially at camp. It reminded me why I love camping so much.

There’s just something about being outside, away from the never-ending list of responsibilities, and soaking in the simplicity of nature and time together. Sure, there’s still work involved—but this time, it was fun. The kids helped me set up the tent and gleefully gathered sticks for the fire. They were also super stoked because our camp spot leaned more glamping than rugged camping: a pool with a waterslide, a park full of other kids, mini golf—the works. Oh and yes, there were toilets for Jackson too!

But even without the extra amenities, camping is just kind of magical. Campfires where we told stories (how cliché in the best way), snuggles in the tent (and a few exhausted pleas from me to “please go to sleep!”), sticky s’mores, and I even got to relax and read my book while they played. I guarantee that wouldn’t have happened if we had stayed home.

Travel is Good for the Soul:

If camping isn’t your thing, I totally get it. But I hope this month’s Elevate Livin’ Life newsletter paints a picture of fun and adventure—and inspires you to plan something for yourself this summer. Whether it’s a backyard staycation under the stars or a long-awaited bucket list trip across the ocean, I’m here to say: make it happen.

Seriously—go dust off that dream book or vision board and look for one mini adventure that you could actually pull off this month. Then put it on the calendar so you’re held accountable. Or better yet, tell your kids. They’ll definitely make sure you don’t back out. 😄

Need inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite local adventures:

McCall Magic (obviously 😉)

  • Ponderosa Park: Hike from Lily Marsh up Ridgeline to Osprey Lookout, then down the Huckleberry Trail
  • Eat brunch at Little Ski Hill
  • Bike ride at Bear Basin
  • SUP the Meanders
  • Want a secret camp spot? Message me—I’ve got a few local favs.

Sawtooth Beauty

  • Hike Fischer Creek Trail near Redfish Lake
  • Up for a bigger adventure? Try Goat Lake or Saddleback Lakes 😍
  • Take the boat across Redfish Lake
  • Lounge on the beach at Redfish
  • Bike Elk Meadow Loop—or if you’re feeling bold, bike all the way around Redfish

Southern Idaho Surprises

Want to repeat our Memorial Day trip? Here’s the itinerary:

  • Basecamp: Anderson Camp (mini golf, pool, great kid vibes)
  • Saturday:
    • Shoshone Ice Caves (morning)
    • Perrine Coulee Falls (afternoon)
    • Sunset at Shoshone Falls (golden hour magic!)
  • Sunday:
    • Day trip to City of Rocks & Castle Rocks State Park
    • Pool play at camp
  • If you can swing it: Drive the Thousand Springs Byway and kayak to Blue Heart Springs (I’ll paddle if you bring snacks 😉)

And don’t forget—I love building itineraries! Whether you’re dreaming of a quick day trip, a weekend escape, or a weeklong adventure, I’d be thrilled to help. I’ve got loads of ideas for Idaho, Yellowstone (including how to see wild wolves!), Sedona, Hawaii, and beyond. Just say the word.

Finding Peace with a Staycation:

While I’m so glad those little monsters pushed me to go on our trip—and we did have a blast—I also realized something else: I need to get better about enjoying the little moments at home. I mean, I love McCall (who doesn’t?!), and I do love my house and the comfort of it. So why do I sometimes feel like I need to leave to really relax?

So here’s my personal challenge: be more present and learn to just be. Easier said than done, right? In typical Kelli fashion, I decided to make a checklist to help me chill out. I know… a checklist for relaxing kind of defeats the point. But baby steps. 😅

My Chill Out Checklist (aka How to Actually Enjoy Home):

  1. Light a fire in our beautifully landscaped backyard fire pit we never use—even though we worked so hard to build it.
  2. Sit in the hammock and read a book. Not scroll. Read.
  3. Saturday morning garage gym workouts with my besties—because that still counts as fun.
  4. Family game nights… scratch that. We’re already rocking those. But maybe we can host a friends and family game night!
  5. Sleep out on the trampoline with the kids. Memories incoming.
  6. Go to the movie in the park—because small-town summer vibes are the best.
  7. SUP the Meanders (more than once, Kelli—c’mon).
  8. Go wolf-spotting with Charlie one early morning.
  9. Find and photograph a moose. Or river otters. Or both.
  10. Brunch at the new local spot and even have a mimosa with girlfriends! 
  11. Go to a play with the kiddos… actually, scratch that. Saving that one for mud season. 😅

That’s all I’ve got for now. But tell me—what’s on your at-home bucket list or chill-out checklist? I’d love some inspiration. Hit reply to send me your ideas—I might just steal them for my next staycation.

So, as summer rolls in, I hope you carve out time for the big bucket list adventures and the unexpected magic in the everyday. Like spontaneous ice cream runs, barefoot walks through the grass, staying up past bedtime to watch those stars come out, or road trip singalongs with the windows down. Whether you’re wandering far or soaking up the wonder right outside your door, may your days feel full, your heart light, and your soul just a little more alive.

I’ll see you out there! 
-Kelli ❤️🏕️

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Special Date Morning Hiking Cervidae Peak with Tony

What Lights You Up? A Book, A Shift, and A Life Worth Living

“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” – Annie Dillard

Knock, knock, 
Imagine opening your front door this morning and finding a beautiful wooden box resting on your doorstep—your name delicately engraved on the top. Inside? A simple white piece of string.
But it’s not just any string—this tiny thread holds the answer to how much life you have left to live.
This quiet, unassuming piece of string is your personal countdown. It tells you when your life will end.
Now picture this: every person you know—your family, your friends, your neighbors, strangers—everyone has received one of these boxes, each holding their own measure. Some strings are long. Some are heartbreakingly short.
And now… you know. For better or worse, you know.

The Measure by Nikki Erlick

The idea behind the book, The Measure  really shook me. It made me pause and reflect on my own life—how I’m living, loving, connecting, working.
I’ve always believed in designing a life that fuels you, that lights you up. But this book made me ask: Am I waiting too long to chase some of those dreams? Are you?

Are we all a little too caught up in the rat race—checking the boxes, surviving the day-to-day—to actually be living the life we want?
It was fascinating to read the fictional stories of how people reacted once they knew the length of their string. Some played it safe. Others went all in. And it left me thinking… what would I do?

Living With Purpose (Not Panic):
I’ll admit it—The Measure gave me a little anxiety at first. Reading about the characters who found out their time was short hit close to home, especially right now as we continue to navigate the emotional roller coaster of my mother-in-law’s terminal cancer diagnosis. The news has gotten worse over the past two months, and it’s heavy.

But instead of spiraling, the book made me reflect. It actually brought me back to focus—on my own life, what I can control, and how I want to live each day with more purpose, not panic.

And honestly, the timing couldn’t have been better. Spring is here, and with it comes that natural pause to reflect on the past few months and look forward to what’s ahead. On top of that, I’ve got some big life shifts happening—new employees joining the team (yay, leverage!) and Jackson heading to kindergarten this fall (hello, a little more breathing room!).

This past week has been interesting too—I’ve noticed myself feeling happier. Like, noticeably happier. So during a dog walk yesterday, I did a little reflecting (as I tend to do), and I think I figured out why: I snuck in multiple micro adventures.

Most weeks, I’m lucky if I get out for one or two longer outside adventures. But this week? I got in a solo hike, a backcountry ski with a bestie, a bike ride with another bestie, and another solo walk.  That combination—outside time, movement, meaningful connection, and sunshine—filled my cup. I felt alive, stoked, and more grounded in who I am.

Add in a productive work week, some great family time, and my usual CrossFit schedule, and it hit me like a ton of bricks: This is the recipe. This is what balance looks like for me. And I need more of it.

I KNOW What Makes Me Happy… But I Don’t Always Do It:
Here’s the thing—I know what I need to feel alive. I know I need to get outside. I know I need adventure and movement multiple times a week. That’s not a mystery.

But sometimes… life just gets in the way. The rat race. The to-do lists. The kid chaos. The deadlines. It’s normal, and I think some of it is even necessary. But I also know this: weeks like the one I just had—where I make space for the things that light me up—those are the weeks I thrive.

So I’m reminding myself—again—to slow down and intentionally build these soul-filling activities into my life. Not in some dreamy, when-I-have-time way. But like… actually schedule them. Actually prioritize them. Actually go do them. Even when it’s cold. Even when I’m tired. Even when work is nuts or the kids need everything from me. Even when it means I’ll be more frazzled later. 

Because here’s the truth: when I force it a little—get up at 5am to stay ahead of the day, bundle up in all the layers, and sneak in an hour outside—I come home lighter. Happier. Giddier. More grounded. I just feel better. And isn’t that what we’re all chasing?

So, friend, let me ask you:

  • What do you know you need to feel your best?
  • What slice of heaven refuels you?
  • What’s getting in the way… and are you willing to change it?
  • Are you willing to be a little busier, a little more frazzled with more on your plate, but ultimately a lot more happier? 

Would I have rather slept in on Thursday than get up at the butt crack of dawn just to sneak in a short bike ride? Heck yes. But once I did it—once I pedaled out into the fresh air—I didn’t regret the early alarm one bit. I’ll sleep tonight.

What if Your String is Short?
Alright—now that we’ve talked about daily and weekly motivation, let’s zoom out a little. I want you to think long-term.

What if, when you opened that mysterious little box on your doorstep, you discovered your string was short? Maybe it meant you had three years left. Or one.

What would you do?
What thoughts would rush through your mind?
What dreams would suddenly feel urgent?
What would you want to achieve… or say… or become before your time ran out?

Or—maybe you’d choose to keep living exactly as you are right now. And that would bring you peace. Which, honestly? That’s pretty incredible.

Here’s the thing: most of us won’t ever get a string. We won’t get to know when our time is up. And even if we did… we can’t control how long it is.

But we can control how we fill the time we’re given.

Instead of obsessing over the quantity of our days, let’s focus on the quality of them. One of my all-time favorite quotes (you’ve probably seen it in this newsletter before) is:

“Do not fear death. Fear the unlived life.”

YES. That’s it. That’s the whole point.

This book reminded me—again—that none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. But we can make damn sure we make today count. From the me of 10 years ago, who was 28-years-old, bald, and fighting off cancer, I ask you this important question: 

What are you waiting for?

What’s Holding You Back?
Some of you might be reading this and thinking, “Well yeah, I’d love to do X… but first I need to handle Y.”

I get that. Trust me, the past few years I’ve had a lot more of “Y” than “X.” And honestly, I can feel it. I can feel that I’m not quite as aligned, as lit-up, or as joyful as I know I can be.

Sometimes we’re in a season of growth—getting things in place, building, restructuring, surviving. And that’s okay. But other times? We’re unknowingly holding ourselves back. Waiting. Hoping for the perfect moment to chase a little slice of joy.

What if you stopped waiting and just started now?

What if the thing that would bring you the most happiness was just one hour a day?
An hour to sip coffee with a friend.
An hour to walk alone in peace.
An hour to read, write, rest, or breathe.

One hour a day is a lot—and yet, it’s not. I bet if you did a little time audit of your day, you’d spot some “wasted” time that could be repurposed into Happiness Time.

So here’s your challenge for the week:

  1. Open your calendar and look at the next seven days.
  2.  Find a 1-2 hour window where you don’t have any required commitments and block it off in pen. Label it “Happiness Time.”
  3. Now, throughout your day today, keep this in mind: What would make me the happiest person next week if I actually made time to do it?

Next week, during your Happiness Time—go do that thing.
See how it feels.
Was it worth the effort to carve it out?
How did you feel afterward?
And can you do it again the following week?

Repeat. Over and over. This is how we build a life we love.

And hey—I’d love to know what your X is. What lights you up? What brings you joy? Did carving out your Happiness Time actually make a difference? Was it worth the sacrifices to pull it off?

Keep living boldly, my friends. Whether your string is long or short… you’ll never know until it’s too late.

With love and light,
Kelli

Survey to Elevate Our Lives TOGETHER
Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Sharing this Epic Sunset with Family & Friends

Are We More Connected Than Ever…or Completely Alone?

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” – C.S. Lewis

You know, there was a time in my life when I was pretty much friendless. I mean, I had friends—great ones, actually—but they all lived far away. I had just moved to a new city where the only person I knew was my husband, and, well, he was buried in Physical Therapy school. Meanwhile, I was working a remote job that didn’t exactly lend itself to making new connections.

We NEED Connections:

I tried. I made a few friends with some of the other PT wives, but honestly? They weren’t really my people. And yet, I still forced myself to hang out with them. Looking back, I can’t help but wonder—why? Especially now, when I cherish my alone time so much.

The answer is simple: humans need connection. It’s wired into us. Even when the fit isn’t perfect, we seek out relationships because we thrive on belonging, conversation, and shared experiences.

So, this month’s Elevate Livin’ Life newsletter is all about the “Connect” bucket—one of the five pillars of health (Eat, Sleep, Think, Connect, Train) that contributes to overall wellness. Let’s talk about why connection matters and how we can be more intentional about building it.

Always Connected, Always Alone?:
Truthfully, I don’t stress too much about the Connect bucket. I’m beyond grateful to have a small squad of close, deep, ride-or-die friendships—people I can dive into emotional conversations with, push my physical limits alongside, and just be with. It took time to build, but now that I have these relationships, I’m like hell yeah.

But even though connection isn’t something I personally struggle with, I find myself fascinated (and honestly, a little freaked out) by this bucket when I think about my kids. After reading The Anxious Generation this past summer (highly recommend, by the way!), I was blown away by how much our youth is suffering from a lack of real connection—and how screens are making it worse.

We live in a world where we are “always connected” but rarely truly connected. Research backs this up—one study found that people who spend more than two hours per day on social media are twice as likely to experience feelings of social isolation compared to those who use it for less than 30 minutes. 

And then there’s video games. But in my research, I was actually relieved to find that not all video games are bad and playing video games isn’t necessarily bad. Some games actually help kids build friendships, teamwork skills, empathy, and even a sense of community. As with everything screen-related, it’s about balance—making sure it doesn’t replace offline relationships, school, physical health, and (my personal favorite) outside time!

This is an ongoing battle in our household, especially as my kids are now obsessed with Minecraft. (Help!) Some days, I want to throw the tablets away and shout, “NO SCREENS FOR YOU!” Other days, I get it—I see the value in decompression, and hey, I grew up playing Zelda, Mario, and Donkey Kong. Who wants to battle me on Koopa Troopa Beach??! 

So, if you’ve found healthy ways to balance screen time in your family, especially when it comes to Minecraft (seriously, send help!), I’d love to hear what works for you. Let’s figure this out together.

The Importance of Alone Time & How It Benefits You:Okay, I feel a little guilty saying this, but sometimes… I’d rather go alone than go with my besties. 😬

I don’t know if it’s getting older, being a mom, or just reaching a new level of comfort with solo adventures (which, by the way, took work—happy to share tips!), but I actually CRAVE alone time now. I love my friends and always miss catching up with them, but there’s just something about hiking alone in the mountains with my furry pup, a good podcast, and miles of uninterrupted thinking time that recharges my soul.

A lot of these newsletters? They come from those solo hikes. My life goals, business plans, and biggest ideas? Also born from these moments of quiet. So while we absolutely need connection with others, I also believe we need connection with ourselves.

And science backs this up:
👉 People who spend regular time alone experience less anxiety and improved emotional balance.
👉 Just 10 minutes of solitude a day—whether it’s deep breathing, stretching, or reading—can lower cortisol levels and improve sleep patterns

How to Incorporate More Alone Time into a Busy Life:

✅ Schedule It – Just like workouts or social events, block out solo time on your calendar.

✅ Do Something You Love – Read, hike, journal, or just sit quietly with your thoughts. Turn off the phone for a bit—even if you love listening to podcasts (I do too!), try pure silence for a few minutes. In The Comfort Crisis, Michael Easter dives into how saturated we are with noise and distractions—and how turning it off allows for true growth, self-understanding, and ultimately, more happiness.

✅ Say No Without Guilt – Declining plans for self-care isn’t selfish—it actually makes you a better parent, friend, and partner. Taking time for yourself = showing up better for others.

✅ Go on a Solo Adventure – Take yourself on a coffee date, plan a solo trip, or even a weekend getaway. This has been huge for me. It actually started not because I wanted alone time, but because my schedule wouldn’t align with my besties’ (mom life, ya know?!). Instead of skipping the adventure, I just went alone.
I’ll never forget my first solo backcountry hike—it was just six miles, but I felt soooo far out there. And when a random backpacker casually mentioned that a bear had been hanging around my destination lake every day… 😟 Let’s just say, that was a whole new level of solo adventure!

✅ Start Small – Even 5-10 minutes of quiet, intentional solitude makes a difference. TODAY, I challenge you to put your phone down, step outside, and take a 10-minute walk—no distractions, just you.

How to Build Better Relationships with Friends &Family:

Okay, I’ve shared a lot about the importance of alone time, but let’s not forget—this month’s newsletter is really about the power of connection. So, let’s talk about actionable ways to strengthen friendships and make sure you’re investing in the right people.

Because here’s the thing—not all relationships are worth nurturing. 💡 In my younger years, I poured time and energy into people who, honestly, weren’t really my people. And now? Well, let’s be blunt—I don’t have time to cultivate the wrong friendships. Life is too busy and too short for that. So, here’s what I recommend:

 Prioritize the Right People

Ask yourself:
✅ Who brings value to your life? Who uplifts you, supports you, and makes your life better?
✅ Who do you bring value to? Just because someone isn’t a huge part of your life doesn’t mean they don’t need you—sometimes being a good friend is about showing up for others too.

Friendships should be mutually enriching—if it feels one-sided or draining, it might be time to reevaluate how much energy you’re giving.

 Find Ways to Combine Friendship & Life’s To-Do List

We’re all busy. But connection doesn’t have to come at the expense of your packed schedule. So, where can you kill two birds with one stone?

✔ Walking the dog? Call a friend with a pup and walk together.
✔ Working out at home? Text a friend who missed the gym and do a quick session together.
✔ Errands to run? Invite a friend to tag along for a post-grocery store coffee catch-up.

It doesn’t have to be some grand plan—small moments of connection add up over time. Even a text here or there can go a long way to remind people you’re thinking about them. 

 Make “Friendship Traditions” Happen

Some friendships don’t fit into the daily or weekly routine—and that’s okay. Find a way to make it work.

✔ Annual trips – I have friends I rarely see throughout the year, but we’ve got an annual trip tradition that guarantees real, quality time together.
✔ Out-of-state friendships? – My bestie lives in Colorado, so every year, we plan at least one trip together. (And honestly? I think I see her more than some of my McCall friends!)

The key is intentionality—you can’t always make more time, but you can make time for the people who matter.

Let’s Talk About LOVE. 

Okay, enough about being alone and about friends—let’s talk about LOVVVVEEEEEE. 😊

Back in college, I took some interpersonal communication classes, and let me tell you—I was HOOKED. These weren’t just theories; they were actionable steps to having better relationships. And honestly? I remember thinking, EVERYONE should have to take these classes because why are we not taught this stuff sooner?!

Two of my favorite gurus in the relationship world are:
👉 Gary Chapman (The Five Love Languages)
👉 John Gottman (research-backed relationship wizard)

One of Gottman’s simplest yet most powerful concepts is “6 Hours to a Better Relationship.” It’s a straightforward, science-backed framework that helps improve connection without massive time commitments.

So, check out the pretty infographic below—hopefully, you’ll find a few nuggets of wisdom to help strengthen your relationships!

Can I Help You Make a Friend?:

Alright, I’m scared to put this out there—because once I do, well… now it’s real. And if it’s real, then I’ll feel held accountable (eek!).

But after years of thinking about this, I’m finally considering a few exciting side passion projects, and I’d LOVE your input:

 Group Trips

I love the outdoors—could ya tell? 😂 And I really love sharing outdoor adventures with others. I also (as you may have gathered from this newsletter) believe deeply in the importance of connection and know that making new friends as an adult is HARD.

So… I’ve been toying with the idea of hosting a group trip in McCall (and maybe someday, other places too!). Would this interest you? If so, let me know—email me back or take the quick survey below!

 Blogging About McCall Outdoors

I love to write, and I’ve been considering starting a blog dedicated to all things McCall, especially outdoor adventures. Would you find value in this? Would you read it? Let me know!

 Community Groups
I’ve also thought about starting a monthly meetup group—a chance to get together for outdoor activities, the occasional dinner/coffee date, and just connect with like-minded people.

Would you be interested? If so, reply and let me know!

Until then, check out this previous newsletter on How to Find Your People:
👉 Find Your People

Take My Survey- Pretty Please

Well, friends, as always, thank you for reading along. This little e-newsletter is something I truly love creating each month, and I hope it brings you value, laughter, or at the very least—a little happiness in your day.

And I hope that whether you are spending time alone, with your furry pets, out with besties, hubbies, wives, family, whoever it may be, you are finding adventure and joy. 

Until next time,
Kelli

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Date Day with My Hubby in Our Backyard Backcountry

I’ve Lost All My Energy 😭

“Sleep is an investment in the energy you need to be effective tomorrow.” – Tom Rath

You guys, I turned down powder skiing last week. We finally got snow—like, a lot of snow—and I had multiple invites to go backcountry skiing. But I said NO. I was so heartbroken, and I’m still feeling it. 😭💔

Life’s Been Rough:
This past week has been a tough one. The main culprit? A nasty, annoying cold. And while I’ll take a cold over the flu any day, sometimes a cold throws me for a loop. I know I’m sick, but I try to convince myself it’s just a cold—like I can push through a sore throat or a stuffy nose. But here’s the thing: it’s not fine. My energy’s been shot. And just when I think I’m on the mend and ready to do something (like work out or hit the slopes), my energy completely tanks again. So when my buddies sent out an invite for skiing, I listened to the smart backcountry advice and said, “No way.” I couldn’t risk heading into the mountains feeling this drained—especially not in freezing temps, hiking up the mountain, skiing down, and trying to keep up with the group for eight-plus hours. And dang it, my friends had an epic time. 😞

Challenges Galore this Week:
On top of the cold, things got even more chaotic. Charlie had her Valentine’s party, so we spent the day prepping, cleaning, and decorating. (Picture 20 first graders, hyped up on sugar and excitement.) And to top it all off, our sweet pet rat, Seashell, got sick and passed away. 😢 So yeah, this week was tough, and to be honest, sleep was pretty elusive.

All of this has me thinking a lot lately:

  • How important sleep is.
  • How fragile life is.
  • How essential health is to living a full, badass life.
  • And how do people with low energy function daily?
  • What can I do to avoid getting sick in the first place?

Still with me? Hang tight, because this month’s Elevate Livin’ Life isn’t just me venting about my rough week. I’ll be sharing some helpful tips on something that’s been top of mind: sleep, which is also one of the buckets of the Health Wellness Spectrum. Trust me, this week was a powerful reminder of how crucial it is for everything in our lives to run smoothly.

If you missed our last conversation about the Health Wellness Spectrum and the eat bucket, check it out here. And stay tuned as we dive into the importance of sleep this month—because when you’re not getting it, it really does throw everything off.

My Favorite Sleep Tips:
I’m not here to bore you with the basics about sleep and why it’s important—we all know that, right? If you don’t, though, just hit up Google real quick. But what I do want to share are some of my favorite sleep tips I’ve picked up while diving deep into this topic. So, let’s jump in:⏰ Set an Alarm Clock Daily

  • There are some fascinating studies on the power of waking up around the same time every day. Sorry, no more sleeping in on weekends. The idea is to create a consistent “wake window,” keeping your wake-up time within 45 minutes of each other every day. Now, if you’re someone who barely sleeps during the week and finally has a chance to catch up on the weekend, sleep in! But if you’re lucky enough to consistently get 6-9 hours of sleep during the week, I highly recommend keeping those wake times consistent even on the weekends. You’ll find yourself less groggy, more energized, and in a better rhythm overall.

🛌 Control What You Can Control

  • Got a sick teenager coughing all night? If they don’t need you, put in the earplugs. Does your partner wake up earlier than you and turn on the closet light? Pop on that eye mask. Is your 7-year-old a night owl (yup, guilty here)? Well, I’ve had to lay down the law—no coming into our room after I go to bed. It’s a learning process, but respecting sleep schedules is key. What small changes can you make to improve your sleep environment and ensure you get quality rest each night?

🏋️‍♀️ Do I Sleep or Do I Train?

  • If you’re an early morning workout warrior like me, you’ve probably had those moments where you’ve stayed up too late and wondered: should I sleep in or wake up and train? My favorite CrossFit coach, Ben Bergeron, talked about this and recommended this rule of them: if you’re going to get six hours of sleep or less, skip training and sleep in. If it’s more than six hours, then it’s okay to keep your training schedule. This advice has helped me make the decision to hit snooze (or not).

✈️ Jet Lag and How to Conquer It

  • More on this coming soon! I’ve been geeking out on research about jet lag, and I’ll save all the good tips for another newsletter as I gather more insights. In the meantime, if you have any pro tips, share ‘em with me! I’d love to hear what works for you.

You Can Become an Early Morning Person..If You Want Too:

There are two types of people in the world: early risers and night owls. And they always seem to marry each other, right?

Okay, maybe not always, but it’s definitely true in my case! My hubby is a classic night owl, and I’m an early morning riser. I’ve spent years trying to convince him to join me on the “light” side and wake up early, but he always claimed it just wasn’t for him. Well, guess what? 2024 was the year! After 16 years together (woah, that’s a long time!), he finally made the switch. And now, it’s kind of annoying because I can’t ever sleep in anymore. 😊

So, how did he do it? Simple:
He started waking up early.

For real, he set his alarm every day and just got up. Let me tell you, when you wake up before 6 am, you’re excited to go to bed by 9 pm. Slowly but surely, he reset his internal clock (or more like forced it to reset!). I was curious if this was actually good for someone, to go against their natural tendencies and after some internet research, I found that while it’s possible for a night owl to shift, they may never completely change their natural tendencies, yet societal demands might make them feel healthier and better by becoming an early bird, which seems to be working for my hubby. 

If you want a step-by-step guide to becoming an early riser, here’s what ChatGPT suggests:

  1. Light Exposure – Get bright light in the morning and minimize it at night.
  2. Gradual Adjustments – Go to bed 15 minutes earlier and wake up 15 minutes earlier each day until you reach the desired wake/sleep windows. 
  3. Behavioral Changes – Workout in the morning, eat breakfast at the same time every day, and avoid afternoon caffeine.

How to Get Healthy Again:

Because I am tired of being sick and really want to ski before this powder is gone, I asked my little AI buddy, ChatGPT,  ” can you give me tips to make you get over a cold faster”. Those results are: 

1. Prioritize Rest & Sleep 💤

  • Your body needs extra energy to fight off the virus, so give yourself permission to slow down.
  • Aim for 7–9+ hours of sleep and take naps if needed.
    • Ughhhh I’m the worst at napping!!! But I probably should give it a go….so, how do I convince my kids they should take a nap too?? 

2. Stay Hydrated 💧

  • Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and broths to stay hydrated.
  • Avoid dehydrating drinks like alcohol and too much caffeine.
    • I’m a big fan of Throat Coat Tea, yummy! 

3. Load Up on Nutrient-Dense Foods 🥑🍊

  • Eat whole, anti-inflammatory foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • Vitamin C-rich foods (oranges, bell peppers), zinc (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas), and bone broth can support immune function.

4. Support Your Immune System with Supplements 💊

  • Vitamin C – May help reduce the duration of a cold.
    • Truthfully, I’ve been drinking airborne daily for weeks because there is so much nasty stuff going around our town. 
  • Zinc – Can support immune response (lozenges work best).
  • Elderberry – Some studies suggest it helps with cold symptoms.
  • Probiotics – Gut health is linked to immune function.
    • What do you take when you feel a cold coming on? What about when you are already sick? 

5. Use Natural Remedies 🌿

  • Honey + ginger + lemon tea for soothing the throat.
  • Steam inhalation (hot shower or bowl of hot water with a towel over your head) to relieve congestion.
  • Saltwater gargle for sore throats.

6. Get Fresh Air & Light Movement (if possible) 🌞🚶‍♀️

  • If you’re not completely bedridden, a short walk outside for fresh air and vitamin D can be beneficial.
  • Gentle movement like stretching or yoga may improve circulation and recovery.
    • Do you think backcountry skiing counts as gentle movement?? 🤔

7. Take a Break from Sugar & Processed Foods 🚫🍩

  • Sugar suppresses immune function, so minimizing it can help your body focus on healing.
    • Well shoot, I’ve been eating like crap this weekend. Between feeling crummy and craving comfort food to the treats we had for the party my diet has been no beuno! Oops.  

8. Don’t Overdo It Too Soon ⏳

  • Even when you start feeling better, ease back into normal activity. Pushing too hard too soon can prolong recovery.
    • Ah yes, I definitely struggle with this one! Perhaps my 100 pullups yesterday was a little too soon. 😬🤦‍♀️

This Too Shall Pass:

I’ve been reminding myself lately that when you’re sick or injured, it feels like the world is ending, and this misery will never end. Or is that just me?? 😅 But just like last summer, when my cranky Achilles kept me from hiking as much as I wanted to, or the nasty cold I caught exactly one year ago (thanks to the germs on my Chilean flight), I know this phase too shall pass.

Yes, there’s a lot of unglamorous in-between stuff—physical therapy, rest, yada yada—but the point is, most illnesses and injuries are temporary. It’s all just part of the human experience. I’d rather fly to Chile, have an epic trip, and deal with a cold afterward, than not go at all. I mean, seriously, look at that photo! 😍 It was totally worth a few nights of coughing up a lung!

Also, just like the E-newsletter I wrote last year that talks about the silver linings of injury and illness (click HERE to read it), there was some good that came from being sick this week. Instead of backcountry skiing that day, I spent hours working on a work project I’ve been wanting to do for months! I covered for one of the gals on my team so she could go ski 10″ of powder, and I sat down with my hubby to plan out our Italian Dolomites trip. Nothing like planning for epic adventures in the future when you’re feeling like crap in the present! 

A Little Rat, A Big Impact:

Watching our sweet little rat slowly fade away was tough. She was this energetic, affectionate, adorable ball of life, and then suddenly, she was lethargic, refusing food and water, just lying there, quietly passing. It was heartbreaking. Charlie took it pretty well, I cried more than she did. It’s just such a powerful reminder of how fragile life can be. Yes, I know she was just a rat, and their lifespan is short, but still… it hit hard.

So, as I often do in these newsletters, I want to remind you—when you’re feeling healthy and alive, say yes to those soul-fulfilling moments. Get off the couch, get outside, and move! You’ll be better mentally and physically for it, and I truly believe it makes you happier. And hey, it’s not that cold out… even with the chilly temps coming, just layer up! If you really can’t stand the cold and snow, here’s a newsletter from a few years ago to help you push through those winter blues.

Thanks for reading along and listening to some of my griping! I hope you picked up a few helpful tips about sleep, recovery, and more.

What’s your number one tactic for staying healthy during cold and flu season? I’d love to hear what works for you! 

Stay Healthy,

-Kelli 

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Embracing a RARE opportunity to ice skate on Payette Lake