A Lifestyle of Joy
Welcome! At Life on the Sunny Side, I believe that everyday moments are worth cherishing. Life on the Sunny Side aims to bring positivity and warmth to your daily life. This lifestyle blog is dedicated to celebrating the beautiful everyday moments that make life special. From heartwarming family adventures and thrilling travel experiences to inspiring home decor ideas, mouthwatering recipes, and transformative fitness journeys, it serves as a welcoming space where one can discover new products that enhance daily living, reflect on thought-provoking inspirational quotes, share great books that ignite the imagination, and explore personal experiences that connect us all. Along the way, I aim to foster a sense of community where we can support each other in our pursuits of happiness and wellness. Join me as we embrace Life on the Sunny Side, discovering joy in simplicity and beauty in the mundane!
Blog Posts
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A Fresh Year, Gently Unwrapped: Choosing Progress Over Perfection
Why Progress Beats Perfection in the New Year
The start of a new year often comes with loud expectations—big resolutions, dramatic changes, and pressure to reinvent ourselves overnight.
But this year, I’m choosing something different: progress over perfection. Instead of rigid goals, I’m embracing rhythms that fit real life—the beautiful, imperfect kind.
A Softer Approach to Wellness
Wellness isn’t about extremes. It’s about daily choices that feel supportive, nourishing, and sustainable.
Health looks different for everyone—and it changes over time. What matters most is finding what works for you, right where you are.
My Current Wellness Routine
- Prioritizing family time — gathering, laughing, and being fully present
- Moving with intention — unhurried walks and restorative yoga that honor my body
- Savoring Mediterranean-style meals — simple, colorful, and nourishing
- Recharging outdoors — fresh air, sunshine, and nature’s gentle reset
- Exploring local diners — finding joy, connection, and a spark of curiosity
None of these are about perfection. All of them are about intention.
Small Steps Create Big Change
There was a time when I believed a new year meant starting over—fixing everything at once. Now I know real change happens quietly, in small moments that add up over time.
- A short walk still counts.
- A balanced meal still matters.
- A peaceful moment is never wasted.
Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful.
Share Your New Year Intentions
One of the most beautiful things about this season of life is realizing we’re not walking these paths alone. We’re all learning, adjusting, and growing—sometimes one small step at a time.
What does your New Year look like?
Is it focused on wellness, family, rest, movement, creativity, or simply slowing down?Drop your thoughts in the comments below. Your story might inspire someone else.
Because the most meaningful journeys aren’t about perfection—they’re about showing up, again and again, with grace.
Here’s to a year of gentle progress, meaningful moments, and grace in every step.
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What Creative Words Did Your Toddler Invent?
If you have ever smiled and nodded while your toddler asked for lipslick or pointed excitedly at a fire wee, you know that children have their own magical language. These sweet mispronunciations do not last forever, but they remain in our hearts and family memories.
After recently watching old videos from my children’s early years, I found myself reminiscing about the many original words they created while learning to speak. That trip down memory lane sparked a curiosity in me — just how many wonderfully creative toddler words are out there?
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Those precious one-of-a-kind words fade far too quickly, but the memories live on. Did your child/children have special words for everyday things? Children have a way of turning everyday words into something unforgettable. What words did your toddler invent?
I would love to hear from you!
If your toddler ever asked for lipslick, spotted a fire-wee, or invented their own version of an ordinary word, I would love to hear about it! Drop your toddler’s funny, sweet, or creative words or phrases in the comments. Bonus – include what they meant and how old they were at the time.
👇 Share in the comments below 👇
• What was the word or phrase?
• What did it mean?
• How old was your child at the time?
Let’s collect these sweet little pieces of childhood together.
Leave a comment
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A New Chapter on the Sunny Side: Introducing My New Book!
If you’ve been following Life on the Sunny Side for any amount of time, you know I adore capturing everyday moments — the cozy mornings, the seasonal joys, the laughter that fills our home, the never-ending quest to simplify and organize, and the memories that quietly stitch our lives together. And if I’m being honest, it has been far too long since I have shared a true heart-to-heart update here. I have been absent. Fall swept in and out so quickly that I missed golden opportunities to write about all those little moments I love.
And now here we are… December — and this is where I find myself today.
My New Book
I have something incredibly exciting to share! I have created a guidebook for the holidays, and I finally get to share it with you!
As the holiday season entered my world like a slowly creeping fog, my list making began. What to do first? And when will I do it? My mind was juggling way too many ideas that needed assistance in becoming organized. So the squirrels in my mind convened, and decided I should do something about this madness. And I did!
SIMPLIFY SISTER: A PLANNER TO ORGANIZE THE HOLIDAYS has been born!
Traditions, Memories, and Joy—All in One Holiday Planner
Simplify Sister: A Planner to Organize the Holidays, blends heart and productivity in one heirloom-style paperback. Designed for families who plan the season together, it brings your most treasured rituals, practical schedules, and unexpected moments into a single guided keepsake.
Inside you will find:
- Tradition Trackers – preserve holiday customs for generations
- Seasonal Schedules and Calendar Pages – manage events with ease
- Memory Planning Prompts – capture stories behind the magic
- Prompted Letters to Santa – and a letter from Santa for children
- Gift Planning and Lists
- Reflection Journal Pages – hold the holiday glow long after the season ends
This all-in-one planner helps you:
- Organize schedules and events
- Record Traditions
- Save Memories
- Plan the Joy
- Keep the Magic
Whether you are celebrating childhood customs, building new family rhythms, or creating a holiday legacy, Simplify Sister brings seasonal planning and heartfelt moments together, because the best holiday traditions are made with intention, remembered with love and written with joy.
Holding that first printed copy in my hands was surreal — a moment that truly stole my breath. All the ideas that once lived only in my mind… all the graphic organizers that help me plan, reduce stress, and move through life with intention… all the late-night edits, the second-guessing, the dreaming — it all became real the moment I turned that very first page.
Why I Created This Book
This book bloomed from the same quiet longing that once sparked this blog — a desire to inspire, to uplift, to calm the chaos, and to help others find beauty tucked inside the everyday rhythm of life. I have always been drawn to gentle structure: the comfort of a checklist, the clarity of a weekly path, the soft guidance of a daily organizer that helps me breathe a little easier.
These pages have become my companions — helping me plan, prepare, and make space for joy. Creating this book felt like sharing that rhythm with you… offering not just a planner, but a small sanctuary of order and light for the season ahead.
Whether you’re navigating a new chapter, building habits that bring more joy, or simply trying to slow down and savor the small things… this book was created with you in mind.
The Process…Not A Piece of Cake
During the creation process, I often struggled to imagine what the finished book would truly look like. The content felt clear in my mind, but seeing it as a complete, cohesive book? That part stayed fuzzy. And the cover — well, that was its own adventure. I revised it once… twice… and then two more times before it finally met the publisher’s requirements.
After that fourth revision, I received the message every author hopes for: my book was officially being published.
That feeling is so hard to put into words.
When I opened the proof file, I was immediately struck by how real everything suddenly felt. The layout, the little design elements, the flow — all the pieces that had lived only on my screen were finally becoming something I could hold.
And I am sure you can guess what I did next…
Yes, I ordered a copy of my book!Once the book arrived, I immediately saw a few things I want to tweak (because that is who I am — always refining, always improving). But even with those edits ahead, I am so deeply proud of this book and the love poured into each page.
My Next Project?
Tidying up those lingering design elements before Christmas 2026 will occupy some time, but a goal I’m happily claiming now.
This book is meant to be a companion throughout the Christmas holiday season…something to cozy up with during quiet mornings or to git to someone who needs a little light and direction.
Readers will feel encouraged, guided, organized, grounded, inspired, understood, and connected through interaction with Simplify Sister.
Get Your Copy Now
Simplify Sister: A Planner to Organize the Holidays, is officially available here!
Just click the button to order your copy!
This little project has truly become a piece of my heart and sharing it with you brings me so much joy. Grab your copy to guide you through the rest of this holiday season — or tuck it into your Christmas box so you’re beautifully prepared for next year. Let me know what you think!
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Photo by Gary Spears on Pexels.com -
Katalina’s, Too!
The Little Cafe with Lots of Local Goodness
☀️ Brunch Bliss at Katalina’s, Too: A Bougie Diner with Heart
Location: Clintonville, Ohio
Category: Local Life | Dining | Weekend Joy
There’s something extra special about finding a local spot that feels like a treat — the kind of place where you walk in and instantly know you’ve stumbled upon a neighborhood gem. This week, Big John and I discovered that feeling all over again at Katalina’s Too in Clintonville, Ohio — the bougie diner that proves comfort food and cozy charm can happily coexist.
🍳 My Pick: Hens in a Basket (with Spicy Bacon!)
I couldn’t resist ordering the Hens in a Basket with a side of Katalina’s famous spicy bacon, and it was everything a brunch should be — warm, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.
The eggs were just right, nestled in buttery toast with golden edges, while the bacon added a smoky kick that made each bite sing. It was comfort food with a twist — familiar, yet elevated in all the right ways. I must say, the dish on the left…PURPLE CRAZE HASH…perplexed me. So, I asked about the delicious tasting side dish. Evidently, it is simply purple potatoes with special seasonings! Loved it!
🥞 Big John’s Pick: The Famous Pancake Balls
Big John, of course, couldn’t resist the legendary Pancake Balls. (And naturally, I “sampled” a few — purely for research purposes!)
Golden on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and perfect for dipping in syrup, they lived up to every bit of their reputation. These little bites of happiness are reason enough to plan a return visit.
☕ Coffee Done Right
I have to take a moment for the coffee — hot, bold, and perfectly black. The kind that wakes you up and warms your soul all at once.
Katalina’s coffee bar is as impressive as its food, and that first sip made me smile. There’s a simple joy in finding a diner that takes its coffee as seriously as its pancakes.
🌈 Colorful, Cozy, and Delightfully Bougie
Katalina’s Too has a way of making everyone feel special. The colorful décor, local art, and cheerful energy give it that non-chain magic we always look for.
The staff was wonderful — friendly, attentive, and clearly proud to be part of a place that feels like home to so many. It’s cozy, it’s bougie, and it’s absolutely bursting with character.
🌞 Sunny Side Reflections
Big John and I love visiting non-chain restaurants — places where every plate tells a story and every visit feels like a small adventure.
At Katalina’s Too, we found all of that and more. From the spicy bacon to the pancake balls, to the warm smiles behind the counter, it was a brunch experience that reminded us how special local dining can be.
As we lingered over our coffee, surrounded by laughter and color, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for places like this — where community meets creativity, and where every bite feels like a little taste of joy.
Have you eaten at Katalina’s, Too? Let me know what you thought of this restaurant.
📍 Katalina’s Too
3481 N. High St. | Clintonville, Ohio
👉 katalinas.comLeave a comment
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Embracing Recovery: A Journey to Strength
Recovery is not a race. You don’t have to feel guilty if it takes you longer than you thought it would.
– UnknownLife has a way of surprising us, even when we feel like we’re doing “all the right things.” For me, that unexpected curveball came in the form of a knee injury.
Healthy Me
For years, I’ve cared for myself in ways that brought both strength and joy. Yoga has been my grounding practice, nurturing me physically and mentally. Long walks refreshed my mind, head, and heart. Recently, I added step aerobics, a workout I loved for its rhythm and energy.
Alongside exercise, I tried to keep a balanced diet — lower in carbs, higher in protein, and with just enough little “sneaks” to keep life joyful. When I wasn’t focused on workouts or meals, I was out exploring: hiking nature trails, browsing shops, or enjoying a meal out with family. Health, balance, and activity felt like second nature…so much fun!
What Happened 💔
It started quietly with just a faint ache in my knee that I brushed aside, convinced it was only temporary. But over time, the pain grew more insistent, and little by little, I had to let go of the activities I loved. Step aerobics was the first to go, and I couldn’t help but wonder if all that stepping had placed more stress on my knees than I realized. I tried to keep walking, but soon even that became awkward — my stride shifting into a stiff, peg-legged pace just to manage the discomfort. Eventually, even yoga, my most grounding practice, no longer felt like a safe space for my body.
Then one day, I slipped on a step — and everything changed. The pain intensified in a way I couldn’t ignore. What had once been an annoyance now demanded attention.
When the pain refused to ease, I finally went to the doctor. X-rays revealed arthritis which was not surprising, but still disappointing. To look closer, an MRI was ordered, and that’s when the bigger picture came into focus: a torn meniscus. With that news, I was referred to a surgeon, and before long, surgery became the next step in my journey.
It all moved faster than I expected. What began as a minor ache had suddenly become a turning point in my life, forcing me to trade my active routines for rest, patience, and the long road of recovery.
Recovery: A New Chapter
My loyal companion, Jacque’pot, resting by my side during recovery. Healing, I’ve learned, is rarely a straight path. After surgery, my days slowed into a rhythm of ice packs, elevation, and patience. Through it all, I’ve been blessed with the most devoted nurse, my one and only, Big John. Always ready with a Stanley full of ice water or spicy water, a plate of comfort food, or a gentle reminder to take things easy, his steady care has reminded me that healing is never something we do alone.
Alongside John, has been my loyal companion, Jacque’pot. With four paws and an uncanny ability to sense my mood, my furry fella rarely leaves my side. Somehow, he always knows when I need comfort most — whether curling up during long afternoons or making me smile when the process feels heavy.
Post-surgery recovery: my leg in an ice compression wrap – embracing healing and patience. This treatment felt really good! Now, I’m finally off the crutches and walking better than I was before surgery — a victory I don’t take lightly. The journey ahead is still long, but I’m encouraged as physical therapy has begun. My workouts are structured: seven exercises, seven days a week, each one designed to rebuild strength and flexibility. They’re not overly strenuous, but they are purposeful — stretches, leg lifts, gentle bends, slides, and isometric holds. Each small movement is a step toward balance and strength.
It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.
— ConfuciusMy focus now is on consistency, showing up each day and trusting that these steady efforts will carry me back to a healthier version of myself. Recovery is humbling, a quiet teacher of patience, reminding me to celebrate little milestones and to find grace in slowing down.
Closing Reflection
Knee surgery was never something I imagined for myself, but sometimes life’s unexpected detours carry the deepest lessons. What began as a simple ache has turned into a journey of resilience, gratitude, and grace. And perhaps that’s the beauty of it — learning that health isn’t just about strength, but about listening, adapting, and leaning on the love around us.
Sometimes the strength within you is not a fiery flame that all can see, it is just a tiny spark that whispers softly, you got this.
— Unknown -
Ta-Da! A Welcoming Front Porch for Trick or Treaters
Autumn has officially arrived, bringing with it the joy of cozy textures, vibrant colors, and warm accents that make every home feel inviting. In my last post, Welcoming Autumn, I reflected on the inspiration behind embracing seasonal transitions indoors. Today, I’m excited to step outside and share how those same autumnal touches have transformed our front porch into a warm and festive welcome for the season.
The Front Porch
Whimsical Halloween decor featuring painted lanterns in pumpkin designs and a spooky tree, perfect for autumn porch charm. 
A festive autumn porch featuring whimsical lanterns resembling Jack-o’-Lanterns alongside a playful purple haunted tree adorned with twinkling lights. The porch is the first impression of a home, and in autumn, it sets the stage for cozy charm. On one side, I staggered two magnificent mums in rich, vibrant hues, their fullness and color instantly catching the eye. On the opposite side, a pair of lanterns — one tall, the other slightly smaller — bring a warm, glowing balance. John and I found these treasures at one of our favorite local stops, Antiques and Mercantile. Crafted from old oil cans, they shine with a unique character and cast the perfect Jack-o’-Lantern glow on crisp October evenings. Rising behind them is my latest whimsical find — a fabulous purple haunted tree discovered on an unplanned trip to Menard’s. It was completely unexpected, but absolutely necessary, adding just the right height and a playful touch to the vignette. At the steps, a cheerful scarecrow stands beside a large pumpkin, welcoming guests with a smile. My favorite detail of all? That purple haunted tree, tying the entire porch together with its magical pop of charm.
A festive autumn front porch adorned with vibrant mums, a cheerful scarecrow, and whimsical decorations, welcoming guests for the season. 
A cheerful scarecrow stands beside a large pumpkin, adding an inviting autumn touch to the front porch. 
The festive autumn front porch and vibrant mums, and cheerful scarecrow, now have a spooky tree with playful purple lighting. Closing Thoughts
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, I hope your home, too, feels like a cozy retreat. From front porch pumpkins to glowing fairy lights indoors, these little touches remind us to pause and celebrate the season.
Which is your favorite detail of my front porch? Comment Below.
If you missed my earlier post, Welcoming Autumn, you can catch up there for even more seasonal inspiration.
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Owala Fans: Exclusive Only on Amazon
FreeSip or SmoothSip? Comparing Owala’s Insulated Bottles + New Handle Version
Owala has steadily built a reputation for blending clever lid designs, bold colors, and reliable insulation. The FreeSip Slider line has long been a fan favorite for everyday hydration. But now Owala is pushing further with a SmoothSip Slider (with handle / insulated travel mug style) that adds new functionality and aims to widen its appeal.
In this post, we’ll compare both side by side — design, usability, insulation, pros & cons — so you can decide which one is better for your routines.
Deep Dive: Design & Usability
Owala SmoothSip Slider With Handle Deep Dive: Drinking Experiences
- The SmoothSip Slider uses a sliding lid mechanism: you slide open to drink, and slide closed for leak protection. In the handled/insulated variant, Owala retains this slider system with the same tight threads and locking mechanism.
- The FreeSip gives you flexibility with its “sip or swig” lid: a built-in straw when upright, or a wider spout when tilted back — no lid removal needed. Many users love this dual-mode lid for switching between casual sipping and faster hydration.
Deep Dive: Carry / Grip
- The newer SmoothSip Slider (Daybreak / Amazon-exclusive) includes a true ergonomic handle, making holding or carrying more comfortable, especially when the mug is full.
- The FreeSip has a flip-up carry loop (which also works as a lock). It’s compact and functional, but less comfortable under heavy load than a full handle.
Deep Dive: Size, Fit & Portability
Owala FreeSip Bottle - The 24 oz version of the handled SmoothSip is designed to still fit in standard cup holders.
- FreeSip’s 24 oz is also a common choice because it strikes a balance between capacity and portability. Some reviewers note that certain sizes or color versions of FreeSip may be too wide for some cup holders.
Deep Dive: Lid / Leak Protection
- The SmoothSip Slider — when the slider is fully closed — is truly leakproof per Owala’s specs (they say “you can do pretty much anything and keep your coffee where it belongs”).
- For FreeSip, the locking loop plus lid mechanism helps ensure leak protection, and many users report they can toss it in a bag next to electronics without problems.
Owala FreeSip Bottle Performance: Insulation & Temperature
- SmoothSip Slider (handled / insulated) is built with triple-layer insulation. It retains cold drinks up to ~24 hours and hot drinks up to ~6 hours.
- FreeSip Insulated also uses triple-layer insulation. In tests, it kept ice water cool even under sun exposure throughout the day. However, FreeSip is not recommended for hot liquids because the straw/spout design isn’t optimized for it.
So, if you frequently want both hot and cold drinks, the handled SmoothSip gives you more flexibility. If your use is mostly cold water, FreeSip is strong in that domain.
Pros & Cons of Each
SmoothSip Slider (Handled / Insulated)
- Comfortable ergonomic handle for grip
- Retains ability to fit cup holders (in 24 oz size)
- Hot + cold drink versatility
- Leakproof slider lid when locked
- Slightly more bulk / hardware due to handle
- Newer release means fewer long-term user reports
FreeSip Insulated
- Versatile dual-mode drinking (sip or swig)
- Lighter / simpler form factor
- Larger user base & long-term feedback
- Superior for cold-only hydration
- Not suitable for hot drinks
- Carry loop less comfortable under heavy load
- Lid mechanism is more complex (more parts)
Recommendations
- For coffee / hot beverage lovers who also want cold water → go SmoothSip Slider (handled)
- For school, gym, day trips, mostly cold hydration → go FreeSip Insulated
- If you already have a FreeSip and want more ergonomic carry when traveling → the handled SmoothSip is a nice complement
- For those who prefer simpler lids and fewer moving parts → FreeSip is more established in that respect.
Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle featuring a vibrant pink design, ideal for keeping cold drinks refreshing. Closing Thoughts
Both the Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle and the Owala SmoothSip Slider with Handle shine in their own ways, and the “better” choice really comes down to how you live and hydrate. If you’re all about cold water on the go, the FreeSip’s dual-spout design makes sipping or swigging effortless, whether you’re at the gym, school, or on a road trip. But if you want the versatility of enjoying both hot coffee in the morning and ice-cold water in the afternoon — and you like the comfort of a sturdy handle — the SmoothSip Slider (especially in the eye-catching Daybreak colorway) may be your perfect match. Either way, Owala delivers thoughtful design and reliable insulation, proving that staying hydrated can be both practical and stylish.
Owala SmoothSip with Handle 👉 Ready to upgrade your hydration game? Shop the Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle, or the Owala SmoothSip Slider Stainlelss Steel Insulated Travel Mug with Handle today! Find your perfect hydration compainion!
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Welcoming Autumn: A Cozy Reflection, Family Tradition, and Fresh Décor Inspiration
Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.
– F. Scott FitzgeraldThe first day of autumn always feels like the fresh beginning Fitzgerald described—a quiet turning of the page. The light softens, the air sharpens with a gentle crispness, and suddenly everything around us whispers the promise of a new season. This year, we were also blessed with long-awaited, gentle rains that thirsty plants had been missing. Autumn’s arrival invites us to slow down and savor its beauty—to watch as the trees dress themselves in amber and gold. Inspired by nature’s transformation, I’m eager to bring that same warmth indoors, shaping spaces that feel cozy, comforting, and welcoming.
Big John crafted a stained glass sunflower for me years ago, and it remains one of the most sentimental pieces I own. He spent hours in his studio, working hard to surprise me—knowing full well my obsession with sunflowers. Every time I see it, I’m reminded not just of its beauty, but of the love and thoughtfulness behind it. I sure do love that man! 🍂 What’s your favorite way to bring the cozy spirit of fall into your home?
Family Traditions of Decorating for Fall
The heart of autumn is found not in the leaves,
– Unknown
but in the moments we treasure together.
I finally made the bold move and purchased a painting I’ve been admiring for years. It’s called Witches’ Feet and created by an artist whose work I truly love. If you’d like to see more of her whimsical, one-of-a-kind pieces, you can find her collection at hollihocks.com. In our family, the first day of autumn has become a little celebration all its own. There was a time when my children, Jay and Emma, helped transform the house into a cozy fall oasis, sprinkled with gold, brown, and crimson. These days, it’s mostly me, myself, and I. Big John stays out of the way—he insists everything I do looks perfect (Ha! Ha!)—but truthfully, he blesses me by pitching in whenever I need him. His main duties include hauling the fall tubs from storage, each one brimming with well-loved pumpkins, garlands, and treasures collected over the years. He’s also my trusty chauffeur, driving me around as I hunt for those special new pieces that bring a fresh touch of cozy fall charm. (Right now, at the top of my list are mums—big, fat, fluffy mums to welcome the season in all their glory!) Meanwhile, our faithful pup Jacque’pot supervises the whole process, his tail wagging with curiosity as though he knows something magical is unfolding.
There’s a special joy in unwrapping each piece of décor, recalling where it first found its place in our home. Many carry stories: the black iron pumpkin centerpiece we discovered years ago in a quaint little shop in Berea, Kentucky; the playful ghost photo we stumbled upon just this year in a charming store in Dublin, Ohio; and the cozy fall throws that Cadence, Emma, and I love to snuggle under for movie nights on the couch. Over time, decorating has become more than a task—it’s a cherished ritual, woven with laughter, memories, and the comforting anticipation of the season ahead.
Simple Ways to Bring Autumn Into Your Home
Decorating for fall doesn’t have to be elaborate—it’s about creating a sense of warmth and belonging. Here are a few of my favorite ways to make the season come alive indoors:
First placement of the sparkling fall tree… and just like that, the house feels wrapped in autumn magic. 
Pumpkin spice may be nice… but pumpkin fairy lights make everything glow! 
Crisp fall leaves nestled in a rustic seaweed tree collar — the perfect finishing touch for our sparkling fall tree. Click image for Amazon link. 
Who needs falling leaves when you have glowing ones? 
Adding a golden touch of warmth with sunflower fairy lights. Home feels brighter already. 
Nothing says fall charm like a gingham harvest bow — the perfect touch to camouflage those fairy light batteries. - Swap Textures: Trade lightweight summer throws for cozy plaids or chunky knits. A simple fabric change instantly sets a new tone.
- Pumpkin Touches: From ceramic pumpkins on the mantel to real mini pumpkins scattered on the dining table, these little accents bring harvest charm.
- Wreaths & Greenery: A rustic wreath at the front door or a garland across the fireplace mantle creates an instant autumn welcome.
- Candlelight Glow: Softly scented candles—apple, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice—add warmth and comfort, especially as evenings grow longer.
- Tabletop Transitions: Swap bright summer table runners for earthy tones and add a centerpiece of pinecones, leaves, or lanterns.
A cozy autumn centerpiece featuring a wire pumpkin around a glowing candle, surrounded by decorative leaves and berries. What I love most is how these little changes not only brighten our spaces but also lift the mood of our days. A cozy blanket draped over the sectional beckons family to gather close, while a candle flickering in the evening glow can make even the simplest dinner feel special.
🍂 How are you welcoming fall into your home this year?
Closing Thoughts
And the sun took a step back, the leaves lulled themselves to sleep, and autumn was awakened.
– Raquel FrancoThe first day of fall isn’t just about décor—it’s about intention. It’s about welcoming the rhythms of the season, embracing the beauty of change, and creating a home that reflects gratitude for life’s simple joys. For me, autumn is a reminder that slowing down has its own magic—that family dinners, cozy evenings, and the glow of pumpkin-scented candles are worth celebrating.
As I sit here now, our home feels ready to embrace the season. The cozy blankets are waiting on the couch, the pumpkins are glowing softly, and Jacque’pot has already curled up in his favorite spot. Life feels good, full, and beautifully in tune with the season’s gentle rhythm.
🍁✨So, tell me—how do you welcome the first day of autumn into your home?
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Life on the Sunny Side: Learning as I Grow
When I dreamed of starting Life on the Sunny Side, I imagined a place where I share stories, reflections, family moments, and those little everyday joys that make life shine. What I didn’t fully realize was that blogging is not just writing and hitting “publish” — it’s a whole adventure in creativity, technology, and self-discovery.
My Learning Curve to the Stars
They say learning something new keeps your mind sharp, and I can confirm that blogging is giving me a real workout! Some days I feel like a tech wizard after figuring out how to adjust a header, change a font, or add a Pinterest pin. Other days, I’m scratching my head and asking, “Why won’t my subscribe button show up on my phone?”
Each small victory feels like a star lighting up the night sky, reminding me that progress doesn’t have to be fast — it just has to be steady. My learning curve? Let’s just say it’s not a curve at all … it’s more like a rocket heading straight for the stars.
Behind the Scenes of Blogging
There’s a lot more to this than I expected:
- Templates and Themes: Choosing the right look for my blog has been both fun and overwhelming.
- Widgets and Plugins: These little tools are like magic, but sometimes I feel like I’m learning a new language.
- Mobile vs. Desktop: What looks perfect on my computer sometimes disappears on my phone — and back to the drawing board I go! Or, I check out my post and the story repeats three times! UGH! So frustrating! And hence, this message today!
Still, I’m embracing the challenge, reminding myself that every new skill learned is a step closer to making this blog the cozy, welcoming place I envision.
Why I’m Here
Enjoying a beautiful sunset in Tucson, Arizona capturing the essence of joyful moments in life. In the midst of figuring out the “how,” I never lose sight of the “why.” Life on the Sunny Side is about creating a warm corner of the internet where family, friends, and new readers can gather around stories of love, home, and inspiration.
It’s about sharing the simple pleasures — a cozy evening curled up on our well-loved sectional, a joyful walk with Jacque’pot as his tail wags happily, the excitement of Cadence’s latest golf tournament, and the comfort of a new book that touches the heart. These are the little moments that remind me how beautiful everyday life can be. I want this blog to remind us all that there is beauty in everyday life and strength in sharing it together.
A Note to You
I hope you’ll be patient with me as I navigate this learning journey. I know there will be bumps, but there will also be bright moments worth celebrating. And having you here — reading, cheering me on, and maybe sharing a kind comment now and then — makes the process feel less daunting and much more joyful.
Your encouragement fuels me to keep going, even on the days when technology feels like it’s two steps ahead of me. Thank you for walking beside me as I figure things out, one post at a time.
Let’s Grow Together
This is just the beginning. I’m excited for the posts to come — reflections, family stories, cozy living tips, maybe a recipe or two, and little discoveries I can’t wait to pass along.
If you’d like to support me in this adventure, here are a few ways you can help:
- Subscribe so you don’t miss new posts.
- Like and share so I know you stopped by for a moment.
- Leave a comment and share your own experiences with learning something new — I’d love to hear them.
- Tell me what kinds of posts you’d enjoy most: stories, reflections, product finds, or maybe a mix of everything.
Together, we’ll keep finding the sunshine in every day. Thank you!
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The Art of Falling in Love
Hallmark Channel
Promotional artwork for ‘The Art of Falling in Love,’ a Hallmark Channel movie that explores themes of love, healing, and creativity. There’s something about a Hallmark Channel movie that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day. Last night, I curled up with a blanket and watched The Art of Falling in Love—a Hallmark original presentation created with Harlequin. It wasn’t based on a novel, but the story still unfolded like the pages of a beautiful love story.
The film introduces us to Vanessa, a talented mural artist whose creative spirit has been tested by hardship and illness. She’s in remission, standing at a fragile new beginning, when she’s asked to create a mural for a hospital wing. What should be a dream opportunity quickly becomes complicated when she meets Nate, the architect overseeing the project. He doubts her vision at first, and their disagreements spark tension—but also connection.
Promotional poster for the Hallmark Channel movie ‘The Art of Falling in Love’, featuring the lead characters. As their story unfolds, we see two people carrying scars from the past—Vanessa from her illness and the loss of a close friend, Nate from the heartbreak of divorce. Through their clashes and conversations, they begin to discover what it means to truly heal. The mural Vanessa paints becomes more than art on a wall—it becomes a reflection of hope, second chances, and the courage to open our hearts again.
What I loved most about The Art of Falling in Love is how it reminded me that love isn’t always grand or glittering. Sometimes it’s found in quiet spaces—a shared laugh, the courage to be vulnerable, the willingness to see beauty in brokenness. Love, like art, is made up of layers, brushstrokes, and small details that together create something breathtaking.
Hallmark and Harlequin have a way of capturing that timeless truth: that every story of love is really about rediscovery—of joy, of trust, of ourselves. Watching this movie, I couldn’t help but reflect on how often life’s hardest seasons bring us back to what matters most.
👉 Did you catch The Art of Falling in Love tonight? I’d love to hear what you thought about the story, the characters, and the way it made you feel.
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