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 

Plan the Best Damn Year of Your Life

“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” – Stephen Covey

If you caught last month’s newsletter, you know I shared some deeply personal reflections about the fragility of life (cancer battles) and the urgency of making every day count. Every. Damn. Day. This is your gentle but firm nudge to take action and plan your year intentionally—because if you don’t, the whirlwind of life’s chaos will fill your calendar, and you’ll miss out on the life you’re dreaming of.

Dream Big:

As we close the year, this is the perfect time to dream big and reflect. Look back on 2024 with gratitude, curiosity, and a critical eye for what worked—and what didn’t. Then, let’s shift to planning a year that truly excites and fulfills you.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Reflect on 2024

  • What moments filled your heart with joy?
  • What tasks or commitments left you feeling drained or unfulfilled?
  • What opportunities did you miss but wish you had seized?

Flip through your photos, journal entries, or even your calendar to jog your memory and uncover the highs and lows.

2. Revisit Your Long-Term Goals

  • Is there a bucket-list destination calling your name?
  • Have you always wanted to learn a specific skill or start a new project?
  • Are financial goals or career pivots on your mind?
  • Is this the year you commit to a new fitness or wellness program?

This is your time to dream without limitations—write it all down.

3. Listen to Your Inner Voice

  • What’s that one thing you’ve been thinking about but haven’t made time for?
  • Is there a place or experience that keeps showing up in your daydreams?
  • What makes your soul feel alive just thinking about it?

Follow those breadcrumbs. They often lead to the most meaningful experiences.

4. Collaborate with Your People

  • Sit down with your family or loved ones and share your visions for the year.
  • Ask them what’s important to them and find ways to align your goals where possible.
  • For areas where you’re not aligned, plan ahead to balance those moments—whether that’s solo trips, family adventures, or personal milestones.

Fill your dream book with these ideas, no matter how wild, ambitious, or small they seem. This is the start of creating a year that truly lights you up.

When Worlds Collide:

This week, I sat down to wrap up my year-end numbers for the business, and wow—I was shocked. We just closed out the most successful year our team has ever had. And that includes the years when there were three of us on the team (not two like this past year)! To say I’m grateful is an understatement. 2024 was a wild ride in every possible way—both professionally and personally.

From Patagonia’s rugged beauty to the jagged peaks of the Sawtooths. From barely surviving the Colorado High Country to soaking up the Eagle Cap Wilderness. From catching waves in Maui and standing in awe at NYC’s magic to watching wolves roam free in Yellowstone, all the way to hiking the Tetons—this year took me across the map and left me breathless. And it wasn’t just the big trips. Back home, I managed to squeeze in microadventures, beach days, camping trips, and even a mini home remodel. Exhausting? Absolutely. Amazing? Without a doubt.

But here’s the thing—when I take a step back and reflect, I realize just how much I’ve been juggling. A record-breaking business year, epic personal adventures, and the endless circus act of parenting two semi-small humans?  No wonder I’m sitting here feeling equal parts grateful and overwhelmed.

So…what’s next for 2025?

Do I hit pause, take a chill year, and catch up on all the adulting I’ve been putting off? (Spoiler: That doesn’t sound like me.) Or do I double down and plan out another epic year, hoping I can somehow survive the chaos and keep the momentum going? (Spoiler: That sounds exhausting but also fun.)

Well, I decided to ask the robots for help. 🙂

Robots, Please help!

Sometimes, when your brain is spinning with stress and ambition, the best thing to do is to step back and delegate — even to a robot. So, I turned to ChatGPT, my trusty AI sidekick, and asked:

“I want to plan the best damn year of my life for 2025. Can you help me? I want to give you an idea of trips I want to take, goals I want to reach in my business and life, and various other ideas and have you help me plan it out?”

After sharing my ambitious list of dreams and goals, it delivered back a beautiful roadmap: structured, clear, and full of possibility.

What surprised me most wasn’t the suggestions (although they were great) but how this simple exercise helped me feel like it was all possible. Seeing my goals broken down into actionable steps made that little ball of stress in my chest loosen up. It reminded me that yes, I can juggle a thriving business and a year full of adventure. It’s going to take effort, but it’s worth it!

And now I want to share this gift with you. Take those big dreams and throw them into ChatGPT (click HERE to access it) with a prompt like:
“Help me turn my dreams for 2025 into a plan.”

Watch how it turns your ideas into a clear, inspiring plan. If you’re new to ChatGPT or feel unsure about how to get the best results, let me know! I’ve been nerding out on this little tool for a while, and I’d love to share tips to help you harness its magic.

Because trust me, with the right support — even from a robot — those dreams of yours are entirely within reach. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable. 

Get 1-5 Epic Adventures Booked NOW: 

If you’re feeling slightly overwhelmed by the idea of planning out your entire year of adventures, here’s a simple tip to get the ball rolling: book something now. Pick one or two of those amazing activities you wrote down in your dream book and get them on the calendar — even if the dates need to shift later. Just get it on there.

The act of putting something on the calendar, even tentatively, helps solidify it in your mind and sets the wheels in motion.

And if you’re feeling motivated, hop on over to ChatGPT (our trusty robot friend!) and ask it to help you create a game plan for that specific activity. Write down the steps it suggests in your dream book, and bookmark them for easy access.

Now, you’ve got something tangible on your schedule, with a rough plan in place. Every week, take a few minutes to look at it, move forward, and make progress.

For me, I’ve added the Italian Dolomites with my hubby to my calendar. We were supposed to go in 2020 for our 10-year wedding anniversary, but, well, 2020 happened. Then kids, life… you know how it goes. Despite my overwhelm, I booked it! It’s on the calendar, and now I’m slowly starting to plan. I’ve set up flight alerts for Italy and created an Instagram “saved” folder with spots I want to visit. It’s all coming together in bite-sized chunks. 🙂 And hey, if you have any tips for things to see in the Dolomites, please send them my way!

Remember to Make time for Health:

A lot of people ask me how I have so much energy to juggle all the things I do, and I always reply, “Sleep and exercise.” And maybe there’s some good genetics in the mix too, but honestly, I protect my sleep like it’s my job and I make sure to train almost every day.

So, if you’re eager to make 2025 your most epic year yet, you must prioritize your health. Whether that means more sleep, consistent workouts, or eating better—whatever it is, make it a part of your daily rhythm. Stay tuned for upcoming newsletters where I’ll dive deep into the importance of SLEEP and TRAINING, so you can get the tips you need to level up your wellness game.

Until then, here’s your Action Step: Pick one small, realistic health goal for Q1—something like drinking more water or meal prepping once a week—and build momentum from there. Remember, the small steps add up, and your health will thank you for it!

Make time for Connection:

Some of your 2025 goals will involve other people, so if that’s the case, here are a few steps to ensure you stay connected and on track:

  1. Call them TODAY to schedule a coffee date and sync your calendars. If you’re dreaming of a girls’ trip, well you will need the girls :), so, you need to get everyone’s availability on the table. Set that date now!
  2. Need new friends? Check out my previous newsletter on how to make new friends HERE. It’s all about expanding your circle and creating meaningful connections.
  3. Need help to achieve your goals? Whether it’s figuring out how to reach them or needing accountability, hiring a coach can be a game-changer. Business coaches, life coaches, or even fitness coaches can provide the guidance and support you need to make your dreams happen.

Make Time for Work:

While it might look like all I do is play, trust me, there’s plenty of hard work happening behind the scenes. (Our record-breaking year speaks for itself!) I’m just not the best at sharing office life… unless, of course, my “office” happens to look like this one in Hawaii!

But truthfully, my business means the world to me. I’m incredibly grateful for the amazing agents I work with and the incredible people we get to help buy and sell homes. We set big goals, work hard, and take pride in doing great work.

If you’re thinking about setting your own business goals for the year, check out our past newsletter on creating a winning business plan by clicking HERE. Let’s make this year count—professionally and personally!

Tools to Help You Achieve Your Goals:
If you’re needing some good systems to help you achieve your goals, here are some of my top recommendations. Click on the names to get linked to their sites to purchase. 

  • Big Ass Calendar 
    • This calendar is perfect for anyone who likes to visualize their entire year at a glance. While I haven’t purchased it yet, I’m seriously considering it for next year. It’s perfect for seeing big picture goals and milestones, but the challenge is finding the space to hang it! If space is an issue, you might want to check out the Big Ass Calendar Planner, which is a more compact version.
  • Commit 30
    • These planners are beautifully designed and help you stay on track with every area of your life. It’s a great tool for breaking down your big goals into manageable actions.
  • ChatGPT 
    • As we’ve discussed, ChatGPT can help you create actionable plans and provide guidance on organizing and reaching your goals. Whether you need inspiration or a structured roadmap, it’s a fantastic tool for making progress.
  • Online Checklist like Trello
    • I use an online checklist for my work that will have tasks pop up on the appropriate days, etc. I’ve heard great things about Trello to help with projects and checklists! 
  • Going Airfare Tracker
    • If travel is a part of your plans, this tool is fantastic for tracking flight prices. You can get alerts on the best deals to help make your trips more affordable. Google Flights also has similar tracking capabilities.  Going Airfare Tracker
  • BucketList App
    • A virtual bucket list can be a great way to keep track of your dreams. Apps like BucketList make it easy to organize and track your goals, so you have a visual reminder of all the experiences you want to achieve.

These tools can help you stay organized and motivated throughout your journey to achieving your big dreams and goals for the year.

I hope you have fun dreaming and planning about your upcoming year. I really hope that in one year, I’m sending a 2025 recap and talking about the epic year I had AND learning more about the epic year you had!  I’d love to know what is at the top of your list for 2025????! Let’s hold each other just a little bit accountable so we can all achieve the best damn year of our lives. 🙂 

And I’d love your help!!! If you have any tips, tricks, favs to share for the following places, let me know as I’m working to plan these trips: 

  • Italian Dolomites
  • Disneyworld & Universal 
  • Beach Vacay (we may try somewhere new instead of Hawaii) and we want it to be safe, have easy surfing for beginners, and epic snorkeling. 
  • El Chalten, Patagonia 

Thanks for helping me achieve my goals this year!! Here is to success in both business and life. 

-Kelli 

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Powder Skiing in the BackCountry with my hubby, Tony

Your Life Scrapbook: Are You Filling it with Memories?

“There are seven days in the week, and someday isn’t one of them.” – Benny Lewis

As I sit here on the plane coming back from Hawaii for the second time in a year, I think to myself so many thoughts. “Wow, I’m so lucky to live this life!” “How do I continue to do this yearly?” “How do I do more epic trips multiple times a year?” “Everyone needs to experience awe inspiring moments in life, how do I inspire others to go and do this?” “Wouldn’t we all be a better version of ourselves if we got to experience events like this, either in rare form that are special, or on a more regular basis?” And then, my mind wanders to the end of my trip last year. While in Hawaii, my sweet and kind mother-in-law, Gina, was having difficulty breathing. After visiting the ER and getting her lungs drained, a tumor was found. While I was soaking up the sunshine thousands of miles away, Gina was being told she has lung cancer. It wasn’t until we arrived home, that I accompanied her to the doctor to learn the official diagnosis and discuss the plan moving forward.

The Diagnosis:
We knew it probably wasn’t good that she was having to have her lungs drained, but Gina was healthy; she had never smoked, didn’t drink, and ate a healthy diet, so it  was hopefully caught early and we’d get through this like we’ve tackled cancer in the past.  Even with these thoughts, I’m not going to lie, going back to the doctor’s office sure gave me a lot of feels from my own cancer battle in 2015. Cancer sucks.

That morning, the doctor looked Gina in the eyes, her voice calm yet heavy: “I’m sorry, Gina. The cancer is stage four, and it’s terminal.”

Even now, a year later, typing those words chills me to my core. Sweet, loving Gina—who was set to retire in six months. Gina, who adored her grandkids and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her next grandson in just one month. Gina, who had worked tirelessly for years, dreaming of retirement adventures with her family, her horse, and all the trips she’d put off.

Now, those dreams were slipping away, replaced by a timeline none of us could have imagined.

Make It Count:
If you or someone close to you has faced a cancer diagnosis, you know the whirlwind of emotions that come with it—especially when it’s terminal. From the haunting question of “How long?” to the practical, overwhelming “Now what?”, the past year has been filled with uncertainty for us.

Just like in 2015 during my own cancer battle, I’ve been reminded of a core belief: Make It Count. Make your days count. Make your life count. Create the best damn life you can live. That’s the heart of this Elevate Livin’ Life e-newsletter—to inspire and empower you to do just that.

Reflecting on my 2024 trip to Hawaii and this past year, I feel an even stronger pull to embrace the things that light my soul on fire. The bucket-list dreams, the spur-of-the-moment adventures, the micro-joys like a sunset dinner instead of the routine meal at home—all of it. Let’s stop waiting for someday and start living today.

Soul-Fulfilling Moments:

During my trip, I listened to The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter, a book that explores the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone. Easter shares his experience of a 33-day backcountry caribou hunt in Alaska, weaving it with fascinating research on health, fitness, and human behavior. One idea that resonated deeply with me is the concept of “creating impressions in your scrapbook.”

Easter explains how novel, meaningful experiences—what his mentor calls “misogi” events—leave lasting imprints on our memory. These are the moments that fill your life’s metaphorical scrapbook, making time feel richer and more vibrant. Without them, life can blur into monotony, with years slipping by unnoticed.

This struck a chord with me. As someone who loved scrapbooking as a child and journaling as an adult, I understand the joy of revisiting memories that make you feel alive. Whether it’s a type-two-fun adventure or a simple break from routine, these experiences fuel inspiration and remind us why we’re here: to truly live.

Mundane is Necessary:

Mundane tasks are a part of life—they aren’t exciting, but they need to get done…at some point. Before diving into actionable steps to tackle them efficiently, let’s pause and reflect on the idea of “at some point.” Most daily chores aren’t urgent. The dishes can wait another day, and the laundry will still be there tomorrow.

This perspective has been freeing for me. I used to hate going to bed with a messy kitchen, but I’ve learned that sometimes choosing a family bike ride after dinner is more valuable than waking up to a spotless house. Those moments of connection are far more cherishable than a clean countertop.

With that said, here are some actionable steps to manage mundane tasks with more efficiency:

  1. Batch Similar Tasks
    • Meal prep on one dedicated day (see last month’s newsletter HERE for tips!).
    • For laundry, tackle one child’s clothes a day or designate specific days for washing, folding, and putting away.
  2. Set Time Limits
    • Use a timer to create urgency—like 15 minutes for tidying up or folding laundry.
  3. Use the 2-Minute Rule
    • If something takes less than two minutes, handle it immediately to prevent buildup.
  4. Automate and Outsource
    • Leverage automation for recurring tasks like groceries or consider outsourcing cleaning. Hiring help isn’t a luxury—it’s a way to create more time for what matters most.
    • Let me add to this, you can do it all, but should you? Treat yourself to more time in life by hiring out what others can do better, faster, or cheaper. 
  5. Enlist Help from Housemates
    • Get your family involved. Even young kids can pitch in, and you might be surprised at how capable they can be with the right encouragement or a game to make it fun.
  6. Save It for Rainy Days
    • Plan big chores or projects for less desirable weather days. Knowing November is often dreary, I’ll intentionally save house projects for that time.

How about you? What are your favorite strategies for tackling life’s endless mundane tasks?

Moving Beyond the Mundane:

Now that we’ve got a handle on the mundane, let’s focus on the good stuff. The stuff that makes you feel most alive. So first, I’ll pose a question or two: Are you truly living a life worth living? Are you loving your life? Are you excited about what’s happening today or in the next 30 days? What about this year? If not, what could change that?

Whether it’s a larger misogi event or something simple like a sunset dinner outside, shake it up. Create new impressions to fill your scrapbook of life. Life can change in an instant—as I learned through my own cancer journey and Gina’s terminal diagnosis—so don’t wait. Book that flight to Hawaii (ask me how to snag $300 roundtrip flights or sign up HERE for ongoing flight hookups), pack up the car for a Saturday trip to the nearest state park, or just do something novel.

Even if it’s messy or stressful in the moment, these experiences create memories that last forever. I hope your novel activity makes you feel alive and inspires you to chase even more adventures.

If you want ideas for soul-filling experiences—whether budget-friendly or extravagant—reach out! I have a list to share. Start brainstorming your own bucket list now because you never know when it might be too late.

Lastly, surround yourself with soul-fulfilling, go-getter friends. I’m so grateful for my besties who encourage me to embrace adventure and keep me accountable. We’re all juggling young kids, busy jobs, and life’s responsibilities, but we push each other to make time for ourselves and for fun. Go find your people who lift you up and challenge you to live fully!

A Magical Year, kind of…
So, in one year, we’ve tried to make it the best year of Gina’s life. I mean, she’s still fighting cancer so there’s that. But, thankfully at this time, she’s doing “good”. Still feels fine, and is keeping the cancer at bay, although she’ll supposedly never be cured of it and we still have no idea how much time there is. We believe it’s many many years, but we’re acting like it’s not. We’ve gone on more trips, had more visits, and deeper conversations than ever before. I’m grateful for what this year has brought, but of course it has me analyzing, why is there a need for a cancer diagnosis to kickstart this zest for living it up? Why, when you’re faced with the end do you feel the need to cram it all in? And then when you’re trying to cram it all in, you’re having to do it between MRI scans, chemo infusions, being wiped out from chemo, doctor appointments, and so on. Why not start cramming it all in NOW when you feel your healthiest?

I encourage you to go pull out that dream book we always talk about and pick at least one item on your someday-maybe list and put it in your calendar. Right now. Don’t worry, I’ll wait.  🙂 Now, take the steps to make it happen. Life’s responsibilities will sort themselves out—but don’t miss out on living before it’s too late.

As always, thank you for reading. Writing these newsletters not only fulfills my passion for sharing and inspiring but also serves as a personal accountability tool. It reminds me that life’s to-do lists are endless—laundry will always return, but a spontaneous powder day or a chance to surf with my kids in Hawaii is fleeting.

Your presence here encourages me to embrace more “Yes” moments and fill my scrapbook with meaningful memories. I hope you have a soul-filling Christmas and New Year with your loved ones. And if you wish you’d planned that Christmas getaway, take the first step today and book it for next year.
-Kelli 

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month: Hawaii Time with my Mom, Kiddos, Sister & Nephews

Quick Nutrition Wins to Boost Your Health Wellness Journey 🍎

“The food you eat can either be the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.” – Ann Wigmore

Okay, truthfully, I hate the nutrition side of the health/wellness spectrum. I dislike cooking, I have a major sweet tooth, and I hate all the confusion around this topic. I also think that as I’ve aged my body reacts differently to foods and that also annoys me. 😊 But, I know the importance of proper nutrition because I’ve felt it in my own life and I do believe the statistics and studies. I do believe and know I feel better when I eat better. And as they say, “You can’t out-train a bad diet” as much as I wish that wasn’t true. So, today, I’m not going to try to convince you to eat a certain way, I’m going to just impart a few of my favorite nutrition tips in the hopes that one of them might make your life just a little bit better and bring you closer to that “fitness” side of the spectrum.

Health Wellness Spectrum:
Before we dive into this month’s Elevate Livin’ Life E-newsletter I wanted to mention that if you missed our last newsletter you might want to take a few minutes to go read that one by clicking HERE. Or a short summary of it is the importance of “frontloading” your health by focusing on wellness now to prepare for future challenges. Being in good health can make all the difference when unexpected crises arise. We also touched briefly on the five pillars of health: Eat, Sleep, Train, Think, and Connect. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in building a strong foundation for your long-term wellness. This will help you understand today’s reading and the next few ones as well. 

It’s My Way or the Highway

  • One of my main beefs with the nutrition topic is the industry is challenging because everyone has different opinions of what you should be doing. We all say you should eat healthy, but there’s so much information on whether that means; keto, fasting, Paleo, no carbs, some carbs, yada yada. It’s exhausting to keep track of it and to know what to do, especially if you are starting out with no knowledge whatsoever (which is okay!!)
  • Obviously, I’m really interested and care about health and fitness and I still feel really lost half the time when it comes to nutrition. I’ve had it on my to do list for a few months to actually go see a nutrionist…do you know a good one?? To hopefully dial in more of my own nutrition and what my body needs. I’m sharing this because for someone who does care about this I still feel confused a lot of the time so if you do too, you’re not alone.
  • All that being said, I truly believe that not one way is the right way for everyone. Everyone’s body is different, everyone’s fitness levels are different, and heck, even just male bodies versus female bodies are in need of different things. And younger bodies versus older bodies and so on. So, work to find what YOUR body needs and tweak from there.

It’s a BILLION Dollar Industry:
Imagine this: you’ve just finished dinner and a sweet tooth kicks in. You grab a piece of chocolate, enjoying that first bite. But a few minutes later, you find yourself reaching for another, thinking, ‘Just one more won’t hurt.’  And then after that one you think the same thoughts and reach for another. This cycle continues, and soon you realize that one piece is never enough. Why? Because that chocolate was engineered in a lab to make you crave more. And more. And more.
 
Okay, this is a bit extreme and I do know lots of friends that can just have one chocolate after dinner. I’m not one of them so if you aren’t either, keep this in mind, so you don’t beat yourself up too much, this is a billion-dollar industry. Not millions, but billions. Billions of dollars are spent in the food industry alone so companies will pay big money to scientists to create addictive products.  Just being conscious of this can help me break out of that unhealthy cycle of “just one more” craving…at least sometimes.

Basic Principles: 

  • Eat real food
    • As CrossFit likes to say: “Eat meat and vegetables, nuts and seeds, some fruit, little starch, and no sugar. Keep intake to levels that will support exercise but not body fat.” But really, just stop with all the processed foods (as much as you can) and think of your body in terms of a machine. To make the machine work better, what can you feed it to do that?
      • Actionable step: Start by eliminating one processed food item from your meals each week—it’s all about small, manageable changes.
  • Decrease your sugar intake
    • Be AWARE of your sugar intake. And I’m not just talking about those yummy cookies at Subway, or the cupcakes at your kid’s birthday party…that I sure had a lot of this past weekend. 😊 I’m actually talking mostly about the sugars hidden in your everyday foods.
      • So, do me a favor, spend a few days watching the labels on the back of your food to see how much “added sugar” is there. You might be shocked….or validated, why something tastes so good when you see the ADDED sugar.
        • Okay, real life story here, after months of drinking a post workout concoction that I thought was healthy because it came form a reputable company I actually stopped to read the ingredients and was SHOCKED with how much sugar was in it! I know in a way that was the point, to help my body recover but I did not need that on a daily basis. So, I’ve worked to tweak my post workout refueling plan now and it was just such a good reminder that I always need to double check the labels, regardless of who the food is from. 
      • I have done the Whole 30 food challenge a few times in my life and I’m still in awe of what they call the “sugar dragon”. Basically it’s your sweet tooth craving and what they say is usually after 30 days of eating their way (which is not that hard to follow) you will kill the sugar dragon and not have those sweet tooth cravings anymore. This is so trueeeeeee!!! And it surprises me every time. I do eventually eat something super sugary within weeks of finishing Whole 30 so I’ve never tested it out long term, but for those few weeks I do not have a sweet tooth craving at all! It’s crazy to me and just reinforces the idea of the addictive billion-dollar industry we live in.
  • Chow down on those fruits and vegetables
    • I did a wellness challenge in the spring and was actually shocked how some days I crushed the fruits and vegetables servings per day and other days, I miserably failed. So, I tried to remind myself, a few carrots here or there can go a long way. Try adding baby carrots to every lunch and dinner, just a few on the side.
  • Who’s ready to fast with me?!
    • Just kidding, I actually do not like the fasting ideas for my own body. If I work out on an empty stomach, I am not achieving an optimal workout so I don’t do it. That being said, I know of some family members that intermittent fasting has really helped so I think there is a lot of good that could come of it, so perhaps check it out.
    • I will say this though, watching what time you STOP eating each night could be good for everyone. I try to not eat anything after 8 PM (usually even earlier) and I go to bed by 9:30 PM. This works great for me but you’ll need to find your own eating windows.
  • Now that’s what I call high-quality H2O!
    • Drink up that water and stop drinking that soda. If you’re a soda drinker, go to ChatGPT and ask it “share with me some statistics on what soda does to you if you drink it daily”.
      • Okay, so I have strong opinions about soda and then this one little podcast on the Huberman Lab slightly popped that bubble of mine! This fella said that SOMETIMES soda is not a bad thing. His philosophy is for people that are overweight and drink soda that the answer might not be to stop drinking all the soda because they may go try to find that sugar fix somewhere else that has even more calories than DIET soda (his opinion, not mine) is actually a better option than regular soda or just a bunch of candy. When I took this perspective I could see how in certain circumstances it might be okay. Obviously he and I believe no soda or unhealthy levels of treats is the answer but sometimes people aren’t there …yet…. Anyways, it was a good podcast to help me have some devil’s advocate viewpoints on nutrition. 
    • If you’re not naturally good at drinking your water, then change your tactics.
      • Get a new style of water bottle (straws are great!)
      • Get a tracker on your phone to track your water intake
      • Have water bottles throughout your house/office so you always have it easily accessible

The Willpower Instinct: 
I read this book so many years ago but I still think about it often, so check it out if it interests you. Click HERE. Otherwise, here are my favorite takeaways from this book that I hope can help you on your nutrition journey. Truthfully, I don’t implement them often enough but I do think about them and believe if you can practice these steps they will help you if you struggle with willpower. 

  • Stress depletes mental energy: Willpower relies on the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which controls decision-making and self-discipline. Chronic stress drains this mental energy, leaving you less capable of resisting temptations. This is why people often turn to comfort foods, procrastinate, or engage in other unhealthy habits when feeling overwhelmed—they lack the mental energy to make better choices.
    • Ughhh, okay, I’ve been feeling this one so much in my life the past 8 months. We’ve been really busy at work (a good problem but still stressful at times) and I can tell by the end of the day I’m snacking more, eating more treats, and so on and I think it’s a combination of work stress depleting my willpower and bad habits that I’ve formed. So far my easy fix is just not having much of that snacky, sugary stuff in the house….until Halloween in a few days.   😬
  • Willpower as a muscle: Just like physical muscles, willpower strengthens with use and weakens with overexertion. Small successes act like light exercise for the brain, allowing it to grow stronger gradually. Every time you successfully resist a small temptation or follow through on a minor commitment, you are “working out” your willpower muscle, making it easier to handle bigger challenges later on.
    • Try this challenge, put a piece of chocolate (or a favorite treat) on your desk and force yourself however you can to not eat it for xx amount of days. Over time, hopefully the temptation isn’t as strong because you’re building your willpower muscle. 

What Can You Do NOW…Easily??

Besides the few action items I mentioned above, here are some other ones to implement or think about:

  • Focus on long-term, sustainable eating habits rather than short-term diets. It’s about making choices that fit your lifestyle and can be maintained over time.
  • When starting a new habit, remember to have some self-compassion or you may just end up in a worse place:
    • It’s not always a good thing to be an “all or nothing” mindset. You are going to have slipups and being aware of that now is a good thing. Hopefully it wont’ give you permission to go break commitments to yourself, but it’s important to have grace when you do have slipups so that you don’t completely bag the entire food challenge/diet/etc.
      • For instance, if you break a diet and eat a cookie, thinking “I’ve ruined my diet, so I might as well eat more,” is not the right action. One cookie is okay if it ended up happening, but stop yourself there!
  • Be aware of your actual needs:
    • Coach Ben Bergeron shared a story of how he got into this habit of having a post dinner meal before bed. Then he realized this was not needed or good for him so he tried stopping it. Every night his stomach would GROWL out of hunger but he knew there was no way he was actually hungry as he’d just had dinner an hour prior. His body had become so used to that snack it was reacting to this bad habit not being fulfilled. So, when his stomach growled he changed the reaction by doing some exercises, like 10 pushups or 15 burpees. Slowly his stomach stopped growling and stopped expecting it’s post dinner snack.
      • Be aware of what habits you have in place.
      • Be aware of what your body truly needs.
      • Be aware of what you could change to make things better (go for a walk next time you find yourself wanting to snack, eat carrots instead of chips, etc.).    
  • Meal Prep for the week:
    • Sit down once during the week to map out what you are going to eat every meal for every day for a week. Then get the groceries and spend one day prepping as much as you can so it’s ready ahead of time. Think: make the entire meal and freeze it, just cut the veggies, thaw the meat…and so on, what can you do to make your life easier when you have less time?
      • Have an ongoing list of groceries on your phone somewhere so you know what you’re out of in the house. I also keep a few of my favorite recipes’ ingredients on this list so if I make it to the store and didn’t plan out our meals for the week, I can still get enough groceries to last for a few nights’ dinners. 
  • Not sure what to make this week:
    • Ask Chat GPT for ideas
  • Not sure what to make today:
    • Give Chat GPT the ingredients in your fridge and ask it to make you a recipe
  • Remember, simple changes can go a long way:
    • Want to eat more eggs for breakfast but always in a hurry in the mornings? Make delicious egg casseroles or egg muffins ahead of time. Hit me up for some of my favorite recipes!  
    • Find yourself snacking too much? Get rid of any unhealthy snacks-this one I use all the time and I sure get sad when I have nothing yummy to snack on but eventually, I get over being mad at myself and move on with my day
  • Hire It Out:
    • I know a great lady (in the Treasure Valley) who will come to your house with all the groceries and make up the meals for you and your family and stock your fridge. Message me for her information.
    • Check out meals from sources like Paleo Power Meals or ready-made healthy meals shipped to your door.
    • Love to cook but never have the time? Well, think about what you can outsource in your life to get the time back? Hire someone to do your laundry or clean your house or walk the dog so you can focus on cooking.

I hope that these tips and tricks have created more solutions and less confusion when it comes to the EAT bucket of the five factors of health and your journey to the “fitness” side of the health/wellness spectrum we’ve been talking about. I’m always looking for ways to improve this area of my life, so please, share with me your tips, your favorite recipes, and more!

Here’s to healthy eating and an occasional treat (like Jackson getting to have the best popsicle EVER in NYC this summer :)),
-Kelli 

Favorite Livin’ Life Activity This Month:
Sunset Bike Ride with the Hubby