Somewhere between texting, emails, and emojis, we forgot how to write a good old-fashioned letter. It’s understandable…why grab a pen when you can send a text in seconds? But let’s be honest: nothing digital quite compares to the magic of opening an envelope, unfolding a note, and reading something written just for you.

After Kennedy Claire passed, walking to the mailbox was the highlight of my day. I’m so lucky so many friends knew letters were my love language, it was such a treat to find something in the mailbox so often. As the years have passed, the cards have slowed down. Now it’s my turn to return the favor and partake in the age old form of communication.

Letter writing is a lost art, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s one of life’s simplest (and most underrated) joys. Whether it’s a thank you note, a birthday card, a “just because” letter, or a sympathy note, here’s how to make it meaningful.

Lame excuses for not writing a letter

“My handwriting is bad” (It’s probably fine. And I know a great way to make it better…practice.)

“I don’t know my friend’s address” (Ask them.)

“I don’t have time” (Oh really? Tell that to TikTok.)

“Stamps are expensive” (Skip one coffee out & you’re golden.)

“Do I need cute cards?” (Scribble on a napkin, tear a page out of a notebook, it’s the thought that counts.)

How to Write a Thank You Note

Thank you notes can be as generic as Wonder Bread or as wonderful as the smell of freshly baked sourdough wafting through the house… you decide.

• Make it personal by stating what the gift or event meant to you. (“I’ve been lonely and getting invited to your party brightened my entire month!”)

• Compliment the giver by acknowledging something you admire about them. (“You know how to make everyone feel welcome and at home!”)

• Highlight the heart behind the action. Did they go out of their way? Did it come at the perfect time? Say so! (“You’ll never know how much I needed that night away from the kids to feel like myself.”)

• Bonus points if you include a physical photo of you enjoying the gift/night/ one of you and said friend. Warm fuzzies are guaranteed!

How to Write a Birthday Card

In case you forgot, everyone has a birthday every year. If there’s any kind of note to learn to write well, it’s this one.

• "Happy Birthday" + your name doesn’t cut it. Put in a little effort!

• Include 2–3 things you admire about them, big or small, let them know what makes them special.

• Mention something you’ve learned from them or a way you’ve seen them grow this year. Everyone wants to feel seen.

• Non-generic well wishes are always better than “Hope this year is your best one yet.” Make it personal! Include a prayer for the upcoming year if you’re that sort of person.

How to Write a Just Because Note

Did you know you don’t have to have a specific reason to write a letter? Who would have thought!

• Start with a fun, zippy greeting, you’re not writing a school essay. "(HELLO bestest human in the whole world!” is totally appropriate.)

• Pick one topic & share 2–3 thoughts about it. Again, it’s a letter, not an all encompassing life update.

• Say why they’re on your heart. Did something remind you of them? Do you miss them? Tell them!

• Don’t expect a response. A just because note is about sharing joy, no strings attached.

How to Write a Sympathy Letter

Grief is heavy, and sometimes words feel impossibly small. But even the simplest note can remind someone they’re not alone. A heartfelt sympathy card doesn’t need to fix anything. It just reminds them they’re not alone.

• Acknowledge the loss by saying their loved one’s name and speaking to what they meant. ("I was so heartbroken to hear about your mom. She was truly one of a kind.")

• Share a memory if you knew the person—just something simple and real. ("I’ll never forget the way your dad made everyone feel welcome. He never met a stranger.")

• Keep it simple. This isn’t the time for flowery metaphors or advice. A short, heartfelt note is enough. (“I’m here for you, and I’ll be checking in again soon.”)

And Finally… Have Fun with It!

• 💌 Cute stamps? Always. Barbie is currently at the post office!

• 💖 Doodles on the envelope? Absolutely.

• 📜 Favorite Stationery Sets: I’ll never outgrow this brand.

• 📮 My best letter purchase last year

• ✍️ My Go-To Pens for Letter Writing: Muji

There’s no wrong way to send a letter. The only the mistake is not sending one at all.

With love,

Karissa

PS: Your homework this week is to send ONE letter. You can do it! Excited to hear back from you on this.

PPS: Should we revive pen pal club?

Of course, now this trend is as outdated as gauchos, but nevertheless, she persists. Who knows, maybe gauchos will be back?? I for one won’t be mad. I also won’t be mad if I never again fall prey to a cheap purchase. Lately, I’ve been on the unfortunate end of the “Buy nice or buy twice” phrase. My DNA is made out of a desire for discounts, which bites me in the butt, and also why I genuinely appreciated this social media trend.

The garbage quality of objects in our lives is honestly shocking when you take a look. We settle for SHEIN clothing and faux wood when the magic of real cotton, linen, oak, and pine exists. Have we forgotten what it’s like to feel something real, wear something well made, and eat something that didn’t come from a box?

I have, more often than I’d like to admit.

I love my husband for a lot of reasons, but one of them is that he’s instilled in me a love of classic, quality, heritage things. Connor lives by the “Buy once, cry once” mantra. It’s not just a table, it’s the one your grandfather built with his bare hands. It’s not just dinner, it’s generations of blood, sweat, and tears, boiled and served with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s not just a shirt, it’s what adorns the beautiful body that holds your one, rare, precious soul.

All this to say, I am training myself to focus on quality, on things that will last. Unlike most influencers, I can hardly link anything in my home because it’s all secondhand, thrifted, and sourced from the depths of Facebook Marketplace. We move much slower with clothing purchases because prioritizing natural fibers is expensive. In a world full of quick fixes and cheap thrills, it feels so good to be connected to the things in our life…even if it takes time.

I’ve had to cultivate this. I didn’t wake up one day with an appreciation for not indulging every cute dress I see at Target. I’m learning every day to say no to certain things (polyester, a processed protein bar) in search of something better, something far more satisfying.

TL;DR: things that are worth the money? Everything. But also, specifically:

Water Softener

ESSENTIAL if you live somewhere with hard water. This is the one we have and it has saved my hair. I was trying every shampoo under the sun until I realized…it’s the water. Lightbulb moment!

Natural fiber clothing

This is so much easier than it used to be, you can find cute 100% cotton finds at Target, Old Navy and even Walmart now. The biggest area to go clean in is undergarments & workout gear. I wear this brand for both.

Chic baby carriers

You know I love my baby carriers! I have too many, but oh well. Wildbird is my favorite for everyday life. I have a few others for special occasions but these strike the best balance of pretty but not too precious for me (because there are definitely stains all over them!)

Color analysis

Are you tired of me talking about this yet? TOO BAD. It truly has saved me SO much money in the long run because I no longer buy things because “they’re cute.” or “such a good price.” I buy them if they look good on me, flatter my colors, and make me happy! This has reduced the amount of mindless thrifts, final sale purchases and made getting dressed so much easier. Put it on your Christmas wishlist!

The price of postage stamps

I would also add family photos yearly, but even more than that, sending mail. We have to keep the analog arts alive!! If you want to stand out, send snail mail. If you want to make your grandma’s heart skip a beat, write a letter. If you want to feel connected and not in a blue light headache way, send a postcard. Stamps are expensive, but also, they’re priceless. (you can make art out of them too!)

I’d love to know what’s on your list!

With love,

Karissa

If writing a newsletter was akin to cooking a meal, I’ve been waiting for enough time to prepare a four-course meal. A gorgeous appetizer, an outrageous salad piled high with every vegetable my husband is emotionally allergic to, roast chicken with crispy skin, and, of course, some kind of impractical bake for dessert.

No one is shocked to discover: that time has never come.

For starters, the silence was a pretty clear sign. But you also know I now have a living baby, who obviously eats into said “cheffing up a Substack” time.

I, on the other hand, was surprised. I love to write! I’m getting a lot done! I haven’t missed a day of getting dressed! I’m a productive mom!

I’m also prideful and think I can do it all when we all know the truth: I can’t, and that’s okay.

This isn’t the season of life for laborious meals, or lengthy newsletters. I’m settling for snacks and cracker crumbs while wiping dirty handprints off everything. That, too, is okay. It’s a season of sweeping 100 times per day, grabbing a quick bite to make sure I’m a regulated mom, and knowing my routines have to shift in light of my reality.

Forgive me if I’m a bit rusty as I return to the proverbial kitchen of cooking up words, mixing them with photos, and baking them with love. Hopefully it’s as familiar as my favorite midnight snack (a peanut butter cup) and as exciting as discovering cottage cheese is finally back in stock (!!!!).

Either way, I now have a little sous chef, and that changes everything, including how I approach a newsletter. It’s no longer a meal. I’m not waiting for enough time to make Julia Child proud.

I’m satisfied with a Substack snack, the equivalent of emergency Cheerios and the hanging-on-by-a-thread beef stick. My main goal: keep promises to myself. Remember that a snack is better than nothing, done is better than perfect, and I’m capable of more than I know.

So anyway, hello!

xoxo,

Karissa

PS: Taking any and all suggestions of what you want to see here. It’s been a minute! Thanks for sticking around. Sending love & virtual beef jerky your way.

It’s love season! I used to think Valentine’s Day was just a marketing scheme (obviously I know the real story) but now I am convinced: it’s mandatory for winter survival. And human survival as a whole? Lord knows we need more love circulating. Let’s do our part!💘

Starting off with yourself. Because when you like-like yourself, you’re more likely to love others well. Confidence spreads! So go ahead and give yourself some sugar.

• Break up with your phone & do one analog thing. It could be fun (crossword puzzles, needlepoint!) or practical (actually cleaning out that drawer)

• Eliminate decisions by setting up simple systems: meal prep, ordering a meal delivery service, limiting yourself to one hangout a week. Do whatever you need to do to reduce decision fatigue!

• Organize your screenshots folder! I add fun ideas to a “2026 ideas” album and use it as my own personal Pinterest. It’s great to get ideas from people I know (sharing Valentine’s ideas from this treasure trove below!)

• Celebrate an obscure holiday just for fun! here are some examples:

February 16: 😒 Do a Grouch a Favor Day. Find a grouch and do something nice (spoiler: the grouch might be yourself)

February 28: 🌸 Floral Design Day. Your excuse to head to Trader Joes and pretend to be a florist! Bonus points if you give a bouquet to someone who needs some love

• Actually take care of yourself: Take your prenatal (the one I take is on sale, their biggest sale ever. Use code EARLYLOVE from February 1-8! ), drink water (you’re probably dehydrated), and best of all, fill your car up with gas on the way home.

• Say the compliment out loud. Don’t just think nice thoughts, share them with people.
• Go first! invite them over, make the call, start the plan. You will be grateful.
• Keep a “people journal”: write down things friends mention so you can follow up later.
• Check in after the thing they were nervous/excited/freaking out about ^^
• Donate to a worthy cause (MSP links here)
• Leave a kind Google review for a small business, rate a podcast you love, or leave a thoughtful comment on an influencers post. This is such a HUGE way to help a small business you love.

• Movie: Rewatching Love Comes Softly, the ultimate cozy throwback.
• Read: Our book club pick this month was delightful!
• Dress: MIRTH resort is here! Even though I’m going nowhere near a resort (also, a more affordable dress)
• Treat: I ordered these for Connor for V-Day
• Color combo: whatever this is
• Analog activity: cleaning my house (love the storage bins)
• Healthy habit: just started oil pulling & already feel like a wellness queen (as I eat chocolate for breakfast, oops.)
• Quote: “Doing something ten times is easier than doing it two times.”

Hope your love month is off to a lovely start! 🌹💌🏹💋

XOXO,

Karissa

PS: Pen Pal Club updates will be coming! If you DO receive an email from me, that means you were one of the first 60. If not, that means you’re on the waiting list for the next round. Apologies that the process is a bit clunky…I’m figuring it out & have a crying baby! Thank you for the patience!

I have always been sentimental. I save scraps of paper, journal religiously, and take a million photos. For whatever reason, living a well documented life has never felt like an option, more like a calling. I can’t help but collect, remember, and record. It’s second nature.

Because of who I am, I knew my children’s lives would be well documented too. What I didn’t count on was losing my first, and then feeling the weight of every moment afterward on a deeper level. It’s not just his first outfit, it’s the first outfit we got to bring a living baby home in. It’s not just a hospital bracelet, it’s a sign of life. It’s not just a collection of papers and things, it’s a collective hope for the future that Wolf will one day open his trunk and think…

“Why did Mom save all this stuff?”

Just kidding. But also, I know his reaction will be a little anticlimactic. Less angels singing in the background, more “Okay… thanks… why is this tiny hat making you cry?”

Either way, it’s my duty to document and remember. It’s more than a trunk full of things. It’s a reminder that God answers prayers.

After KC passed, I began searching for a beautiful way to store all of her little treasures. I can’t remember how I found Petite Keep, but I bit the bullet and ordered it in time to arrive for her celebration of life. Grief caused me to make a lot of bad decisions, but this was not one of them. It was perfect for the celebration, but it’s also a way to keep her memory alive & present within our home.

After that, I realized what an upgrade it was to give our memories a real home, instead of stashing them in cardboard boxes around the house. We got a wedding box next, and ordering one for Wolf before he was born felt like the biggest leap of faith.

I get asked about these trunks all the time. Whether it’s for grandparents, new brides, Christmas ornaments, or childhood treasures, we all have things worth cherishing. In a world full of disposable items and marketing madness, real heirlooms feel like a thing of the past. As mothers, I think it’s our duty to preserve memories, both for us and for generations to come.

Trunk Sizes & Specifics:

KC’s Trunk: Pink Petite Trunk (strawberry fabric was limited edition). Her trunk size is perfect for a single occasion or a memory box for a loss mom.

Wolf’s Trunk: Beige grand trunk w/ PK Plaid. His trunk is MUCH larger than KC’s trunk and will be able to hold a lot more over the years.

Wedding Trunk: White petite trunk w/ Spring in St. Louis print. Again, perfect size for an occasion. Perfect size for displaying & storing on a bookshelf.

Discount Code: “Karissa” for 10% off!

Right now, Wolf’s trunk holds notes, newborn outfits, hospital bracelets, and footprints. I know it will keep growing, and that thought makes me giddy. What “things” will one day mean so much more than things to us, and to him? Stay tuned (for his whole childhood) to find out.

As usual, I love asking more seasoned moms for advice, and you came through with so many good ideas for keeping memories alive. Here are a few.

• Record long videos of your kids

• Mom, be in the photos and videos. Kids want to see what you were like when they were little

• Digitize VHS tapes and printed photos. So many people said this makes an incredible Christmas gift for adult kids, file that away for next year

• Give each child a hard drive and upload photos monthly

• Use a birthday journal to write a letter each year
  (Close second: interview your child on their birthday, video it, and compile over time)

• Write down the funny things kids say because YOU WILL FORGET.

Kept & Promptly Journals: I have both of these, I like the Promptly journal better for pregnancy and Kept for childhood.

Hard Drive: We have all KC’s photos stored on this and in her trunk. I also want to store another copy in a safety deposit box, ha. We will not lose the photos of you, baby girl! Mama promises. I asked my photographer friends for the safest hard drive and this is what they recommended.

Monthly Photos: I haven’t started this yet for Wolf but plan to! I take soooooo many photos of him (usually 100 by noon on a good day!) so narrowing them down to the best ones and printing them will be great to preserve the best ones and keep my camera roll sane.

Make Your Own Yoto Stories: One of my goals this year is to get recording of all our grandparents/parents to record a bedtime story for Wolf. I love the idea of Marmie reading him a book, even when she’s in sunny Florida (jealous!)

I’ve already forgotten what it felt like when Wolf was this tiny. I can’t even imagine how fast the rest will fly by. Here’s to living in the moment, and preserving the memories that matter most.

With love,

Karissa

PS: If you signed up for Pen Pal Club, you will be receiving info soon!

‘Tis the season for setting annual goals! I’ve done this since what, 2013? I don’t know how to exist in a new year without a few guiding goals. To me goals (or intentions, whatever you want to call them) don’t feel confining, they’re comforting. The world is a scary place, and I can control very little. What I can do is focus on making small, positive changes in my own little world & making it a little bit brighter.

First comes the vision board…

Feel free to zoom in and get nosy! I create vision boards on Canva, pulling inspiration images from Pinterest and Instagram throughout the fall as I plan goals for the upcoming year. Ironically, most of my vision boards look the same: lots of color, pattern, and fun.

Then comes the goals…

I won’t dive into everyone, but here are a few overarching goals/themes that God put on my heart for 2026:

• Apples of Gold | Inspired by Proverbs 25:11, apples of gold is a huge intent for me. What does it mean? Speaking kindly, softly, and not getting angry. Truth be told, I have a snippy tongue (especially when I’m tired aka: all the time in motherhood). If I do nothing other than improve this in 2026, it’ll be a win for our whole family.

• Foundations year | We’re trying to get our ish together as adults. No, not trying, we’re doing it! This means setting up investments, writing wills, organizing medical logs, finally going to the dentist, etc. I also want to invest in things I need (a dutch oven, a new mop) vs. things I want (another coffee, that dress)

• Life skills over hobbies | I love hobbies, but am craving practical knowledge. To me, this means reviving my sewing skills to make and mend, increasing my from scratch baking & cooking, and generally becoming a more well rounded woman.

• Prioritize Creativity | There will always be dishes, to-do lists & more “important” tasks. I can talk myself out of a project forever because there are “better” things to do. This year, I want to focus on tuning out the laundry for 30 minutes to create, write, and paint. The tasks will always be there, but I’ll be more joyful if I get a little creativity in everyday.

• See what sticks! | After posting on IG since I essentially came out of the womb, 2025 was the first year I actually made (a very small amount of) income from it. I’d love to grow content creation & brand partnerships in 2026, but don’t know what direction to head. Enter seeing what sticks, throwing metaphorical spaghetti at the wall and not being afraid to try something new (or say, “ well, that flopped.”)

Next are the favorites….

• Favorite Book: toss up between this & this

• #1 Dress: surprising brown dress!

• Prettiest Paint Color: don’t be detoured by the name, it’s gorgeous.

• Best Amazon find: this saved me SO much time

• Favorite Trip: Miami with Wildbird & The Mo Movement (Wolf loves this)

• Favorite Home Upgrade: Our whole house water filter

• Best Beauty Product: this brand surprised me, I love it!

• Repeat Recipe: sloppy janes forever

• Small Luxury: not to be dramatic but you need this

• New fave creators: Clara, Sophie & Emily.

• Most popular links: everyone got these pants & this dress

• Helpful Habit: meal prepping lunches (using these containers)

And finally, looking toward the future

Having a year at a glance calendar is a game changer for the family. We can easily (at a glance!) see the whole year & plan trips, birthdays, and other events. I rounded up a lot here, and my pick might surprise you. Spoiler: it’s neutral!?

I’m excited for this year. Lord willing, it will be simple. After moving to a new state, having a baby, and a lot of other things behind the scenes, I’m ready for an exhale. Who is with me?

With love,

Karissa

The internet started sending gift guides on November 1st. Apparently the internet does not have a newborn who demands attention 24/7! This guide has been in the works for a long time. I have been corralling ideas and pulling links in between diaper changes, late night feedings and doctor appointments.

Another reason I am late getting this out is that I have felt overwhelmed by the consumerism this Christmas season. I love a thoughtful gift, but seeing so many options every six seconds has been overstimulating.

We plan to do the 4 gift rule in our family (I added an extra because: food!!!) This gift guide follows suit, based on each family member. You can find a million other options elsewhere, but this list is meant to be helpful and not overwhelming.

You have probably already checked your list twice, but if you are still working on Christmas shopping, I hope these spark inspiration and not stress 🎁✨

WEAR: A pair of sneaks for inside only (alt option: these)

WANT: A towel warmer, which I think would be a treat even if you don’t live in the tundra.

NEED: New bakeware! I love my Caraway pots and have been eyeing the baking set.

READ: Determined to add more coffee table books to our home, this is top of the list.

EAT: I love Caroline Chambers substack and her cookbook looks amazing!

WEAR: If your husband hasn’t gotten new swim shorts in 5 years, try these.

WANT: What man doesn’t want a grill? Correction: what wife doesn’t want her husband to have a grill?

NEED: He probably needs low-tox products, Primally pure is the best. (Code: KARISSA15)

READ: Lol that the only book I could think of for Connor….isn’t a book. We got into crossword puzzles before Wolf was born and it was so fun!

EAT: Jeni’s ice cream is Connor’s favorite treat. Order a variety pack (this a great gift to send to someone far away!)

WEAR: Oso & Me separates are a boy mom’s dream.

WANT: He doesn’t care about the color, but mama loves that this basketball hoop is kind of chic. ;)

NEED: Active skin repair is a staple in our home, we always need a refill.

READ: Big book of sports, need I say more?

EAT: Tis the season for solids! I love following this IG account and can’t wait to read this.

WEAR: Peter pan collars and ballet flats (for babies too)? I wish these came in my size.

WANT: Every little girl needs a puppy dog to play with.

NEED: Memorial ornament (They also have regular ones!)

READ: A classic book for a classy little lady!

EAT: The coffee addiction will start young with this cute set.

EXPERIENCE/UNIQUE GIFTS

This category lends itself more to parents with adult kids who are reading this. Trust me when I say your 20 something child would appreciate any of these.

• A car wash membership. This is one of Connor’s favorite things, he goes multiple times a week!

• Childcare coupons are a great free gift that are truly SUCH a blessing.

• Split a cow as a family and gift everyone a portion. Beef for all and to all, a goodnight.

• A color analysis would be a great experience for the ladies in the fam, or a great gift to a soon to be bride or postpartum mama who is figuring her post baby style out. (I used Bloom Color Co in MSP!)

• A play place membership for moms in wintery climates would be a DREAM.

• Little Spoon meals, so mom doesn’t have to cook quite as much
  (also consider: Factor for the rest of the fam.)

• Not pictured: Substack yearly subscription or a magazine subscription!

• Bon Bon candy from NYC is such a treat.

• Daily Docs organizer holds all your important documents, I am asking for this!

• Magnetic photostrip frame for your sentimental friend

• Fun shoe laces would be a great stocking stuffer

• Pretend play pad for littles- there are lots of options!

These little notes ALWAYS come in handy- I use them so often!

I hope this helps if you’re still scratching your head on gift ideas. But more than anything, I hope you remember that it’s okay to sit out the holiday hustle and bustle sometimes. There are seasons for endless festivities, and seasons for staying home and snuggling your baby. Wherever you find yourself this year, know that it’s exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨

And on that note, Wolf is calling!

With love,

Karissa

Dear Diary,

Wolf Austin Widder was born on September 9th. It was painful, far from perfect, and tested me more than I could have imagined. But against all odds (and fears), he is here. And this is the full story…

Wolf’s birth story didn’t begin when I went into labor. It started before, at 37 weeks.

I went in for a routine appointment, and my doctor suggested a growth ultrasound. I’ve always measured small, so I wasn’t worried, but I agreed to give them peace of mind. As expected, his size was right on track. What we didn’t expect was that the ultrasound showed Wolf had developed a minor heart arrhythmia.

90% of cases are benign and nothing to worry about. But when your first baby’s loss is unexplained, confidence that everything will “work out” doesn’t come easily (to the mom or medical staff.)

Despite my best efforts to have a calm, intervention-free pregnancy, I ended up being referred to MFM, Maternal Fetal Medicine, the department that monitors high-risk pregnancies. Each week, Wolf had a 30-minute ultrasound to evaluate his heart, lungs, and development. And of course, the an early induction was strongly advised, “just because we don’t know why he has an arrhythmia.”

I swore I wouldn’t get too many ultrasounds. I wanted to trust my body and my baby. Yet there I was, back in that dark room every week, watching the screen flicker and convincing myself I wasn’t “frying him out of fear.” Deep down, I knew he was okay.

But fear is louder than logic sometimes. I had to keep reminding myself: Wolf isn’t Kennedy Claire. They have different stories.

I don’t want to get too deep into my thoughts on the medical system here, but it was incredibly frustrating to feel pressured to go into labor early for a “just because” induction. Maybe if my first baby hadn’t passed away, I would have felt more confident saying no. But instead, I felt completely helpless.

What if I was wrong?
What if something was going to happen?
What if this ended the same way?

For the next few weeks, we monitored Wolf closely, and he was perfect every time. By the week of my due date, I was already dilated to a 4 and about 75% effaced. At every appointment, we danced around the induction question. I know babies come when they’re ready, not necessarily when it’s convenient for everyone else.

We prayed constantly that I would go into labor naturally. I tried all the things, all while trying to stay calm which they say is the #1 thing 🫠 But when my due date arrived, I went to that appointment knowing deep down how hard it would be to stand against the pressure. It’s nearly impossible to defy a system built on fear when you’ve already lived out the worst one.

Turns out, it was impossible. At least for us.

On my due date, Wolf “failed” his BPP, the biophysical profile test they use to measure movement, tone, and breathing in utero. He didn’t practice breathe within the 30 minute window, which is completely normal for babies since they don’t need to practice all the time. Still, the MFM doctor came in, saying she had reserved the last bed in the hospital for me and that I needed to be induced that day.

That wasn’t part of my birth plan.

In hindsight, I can see both sides. I was terrified and gave in too quickly, ignoring my own intuition. Deep down, I knew Wolf was safe and would come when he was ready. Spoiler alert: contractions started later that afternoon.

But I also know now how afraid I was of being induced. It felt like I had handed over all of my power as a woman and as a mother. Suddenly, I was no longer listening to my body or my baby, but to fear, percentages, and their Western medicine way of thinking.

It felt as if fear was making every decision, and no matter what I chose, I couldn’t win.

Ultimately, we agreed to an induction. I was told they would only need to break my water since I was already so dilated, and that gave me a little hope. No medication, just a small intervention.

We got lunch, went home, and I cried the entire way.

This wasn’t the spontaneous birth I had prayed for. It was stressful, emotional, and confusing.

At home, I showered, packed my bag, and decided to go on one last walk. When I tell this part of the story, I usually gloss over what happened next because it still feels too wild to understand.

On our walk, I started having contractions. Over lunch, we had prayed that God would be stronger than the seed oils we were eating and that He would send me into labor before the induction. When I felt the first twinges, I couldn’t believe it. I stayed in denial the entire drive to the hospital until they hooked me up and said, “Wow, did you know you’re having consistent contractions?”

It felt too good to be true. And in a way, it was.

Once we got settled at the hospital, the midwife came in to check me. Good news: I was dilated to a five. Bad news: breaking my water wasn’t an option. Because I was already so dilated, none of the gentler induction methods were possible. The only option left was Pitocin to start active labor.

For some people, that’s not a big deal. If you’re planning an epidural, Pitocin isn’t scary, you won’t feel the contractions anyway. But if you’re hoping for an unmedicated birth, Pitocin feels like a very bad word. It means stronger contractions, no breaks between them, and being tethered to an IV for the entire birth. No walking, no movement, no freedom.

The organic, uncomplicated birth I had been praying for slipped right through my fingers.

I felt so angry.

My first baby died for reasons we’ll never know, and now my dream of a redemptive, peaceful labor was crumbling before my eyes. I didn’t know a single person not in my life, (or even on Reddit) who had gone through a Pitocin induction without an epidural.

Could I do it? Could I hold on to the last shred of what I believed was best for me and my baby? Should we just go home and wait, since my body clearly seemed to be doing this on its own?

We arrived at the hospital around 3 p.m. and didn’t start the induction until nearly 7:30 that evening. In those hours, we sat on the bed and cried. We called my mom a hundred times. We googled everything, prayed even harder, and went in circles until we finally landed on one decision:

Let’s do it. Let’s have this baby tonight.

(Spoiler: he wasn’t born that night.)

Chapter 2 will come soon! In the meantime, make sure you’re following along for daily Wolf pics here.

XOXO,

Karissa

I love sending holiday cards every year…but I hate spending hundreds of dollars on them. Nothing stings more than finding the perfect design, adding your favorite family photo… and realizing it’ll cost $1753983 to print five. You already paid an arm and a leg for photos, stamps aren’t cheap, and now this?!

Instead of giving up on the tradition, I found a simple (and affordable) solution. Since we’re friends, I’m letting you in on the secret. 🤫

For the past three years, I’ve designed our cards on Canva and have been so happy with the print quality, and best of all, the price. It takes a little design confidence since I start from scratch, but you can browse Pinterest or other holiday card sites for inspiration, then make something that feels right for you! Last season wasn’t the happiest of holidays, and I liked creating a card where the festivity wasn’t forced.

If you’re not design savvy, don’t worry! Canva has tons of holiday card templates you can simply drop your family photo into. Easy as (pumpkin) pie! 🥧

Here’s how to do it:
Create a 4x6 card project in Canva and design away. Then, the real hack: print directly through Canva. It saves so much time, money, and hassle (no worrying about sizing or working with another printer). The cards ship fast, and the quality is great. I always choose the least expensive options and add envelopes. You can get 50 cards + envelopes for under $35. Truly unheard of in the world of holiday cards.

Here’s my Canva Card Template Link.

The biggest hack is printing directly through Canva- it saves so much money and effort doing it this way! You don’t have to worry about sizing with another printer, and they’re delivered to your house FAST.

I used the higher tier paper in years past but honestly didn’t notice a difference, and I’m a self proclaimed paper snob. Plus, most people throw cards away (the sad reality) so spending more isn’t always worth it for me.

I hope that’s helpful, and most of all, that you send a card if it brings you joy. There’s no shame in sitting it out, but there’s also no shame in going all out if you love it. The holiday season is yours for the making, and if sending a Christmas card is a tradition you love (or want to start), this is such an easy, affordable way to do it!

🎄 Christmas Card Extras!

• Don’t know what to wear for holiday photos? Shop Gap outfits, Target outfits, & Quince outfits for the whole fam.

• Great tripod for taking your own family photos (or do a Christmas photo swap with a friend!)

• I use this for keeping contacts/requesting updates each year.

• This saves my hand!

• My favorite pens for hand writing addresses

• Always. Use. Fun. Stamps!

With love,

Karissa

PS: Don’t forget!!!!

Hello again! There’s no casual way to pop back in months later, it’s abrupt no matter what. So let’s skip the small talk and dive into the main course (but also hi, hello, how are you doing!?)

Three months ago, we celebrated Kennedy Claire’s first birthday.
One month ago, our son Wolf Austin was born

Those were the two biggest days of the year, but honestly, every day has felt huge. The weight of grief and anxiety has been suffocating for most of 2025, and if we’re being honest, most of 2024 too. Moving across the country, finding out we were pregnant again, navigating the waves of grief and trying to hold it all together wore me down more than I realized.

I’ve spent the last few months learning one truth in a million different ways:

None of this was what I asked for. Turns out, it was what I needed.

Moving to Minneapolis wasn’t what I wanted, but it was what our family needed. Having a son after Kennedy Claire wasn’t what I prayed for, but Wolf was what I needed. Getting induced for his birth wasn’t what I put in my birth plan, but it was what we needed.

2025 wasn’t the year I asked for, but it was what….you get the point.

As much as it’s not what I pictured for our family, now I can’t imagine anything other than this. It reminds me of Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”

I made my plans, and God said “Here’s something else.”

It’s taken a long time, but I feel at peace with the reality I’m in. Wolf in my arms, KC in heaven, a winter coat on my back for most of the year. It doesn’t make sense, it wasn’t what I asked for.

But oh goodness, it’s what I needed.

I have so many things I can’t wait to share with you soon: what it’s like to bring a baby home after loss, having a son, stepping into my new role as boy mom (and dairy cow), maternity leave updates, and all the fun, girly things too: fall decorations, Christmas cards, and paint colors. The ideas never end!!!

For now, just know this. If your reality looks nothing like you expected, you’re not alone. And maybe it’s hard, but maybe it’s also for the better.

Lots of love,
Karissa 🤍

Michaela Phillips | CEO & Co-Founder, Pursuit Network

What do you do now, and what did you want to be as a kid?
I lead Pursuit Network, a media agency that helps creators build sustainable brands through podcasts, partnerships, and original IP. As a kid, I didn’t have a specific dream job, but I was always curious, creative, and drawn to building things. In many ways, I became the person I needed back then—someone who could see the vision before it was fully formed.

What’s a typical day like?
I’m up around 6:30 for a 7am sculpt class, then school drop-off for my daughter. My Power Hour comes first—deep work before meetings and calls take over. My day is a mix of strategy, talent development, client work, and managing a team. I try to wind down in the evening with my daughter and do one final pass once the house is quiet.

How do you balance motherhood and work?
I don’t aim for perfect balance—I aim for harmony. Some seasons, work needs more of me; in others, I’m more present at home. I’ve learned to ask for help, trust my team, and focus on alignment over productivity. Motherhood has sharpened my instincts and made me a more grounded leader.

What’s one piece of advice you’d normally gatekeep but won’t?
You don’t need permission—just clarity, consistency, and belief. Find expanders—people who show you what’s possible. Study their blueprint, then walk through your own door… even if you don’t know what’s on the other side yet.

Thank you so much, Michaela! Make sure to follow her here and Pursuit Network as well.

✨ Design & Studio Intern – Studio Ashby
Role: Support studio operations and design process in a hands-on, fast-paced interior design studio
Hours: Full-time, in-studio
Location: London, UK
Apply here → careers@studioashby.com (Subject: Design & Studio Intern)

✨ Middleweight FF&E Designer – Studio Ashby
Role: Lead FF&E, accessories, and art schemes from concept through install, including sourcing and styling
Hours: Full-time
Location: London, UK
Apply here → careers@studioashby.com (Subject: Middleweight FF&E Designer)

✨ Summer Intern – Mahj Social Club
Role: Create content, assist with event logistics, update websites, and help grow a playful, female-founded brand
Hours: Part-time
Location: Austin, TX
Apply here → DM @mahjsocialclub or via link in bio

✨ Social Media Assistant – Stripe & Stare
Role: Support social media, influencer, and brand content creation in a fast-paced fashion environment
Hours: Monday–Friday, hybrid (3 days in-office)
Location: UK
Apply here → ruby@stripeandstare.com (by June 16)

✨ Retail Stylist – Araks
Role: Deliver client-focused retail service while helping curate brand visuals for social media
Hours: Part-time
Location: New York, NY
Apply here → DM @araksofficial or apply via link in bio

✨ Junior Designer – Annie Downing Interiors
Role: Assist with drawings, sourcing, samples, and client-facing details for residential projects
Hours: Full-time, in-person
Location: Austin, TX
Apply here → studio@anniedowning.com

✨ Studio Assistant – Lulie Wallace
Role: Support artist Lulie Wallace with hands-on studio needs and day-to-day creative support
Hours: Full-time
Location: Columbus, GA
Apply here → Link in @luliewallace stories or DM to express interest

✨ Senior Account Executive – The No. 29
Role: Manage fashion and lifestyle client accounts with media-forward thinking and strategy
Hours: Full-time
Location: NYC
Apply here → hello@thenumber29.com (Subject: Senior Account Executive)

✨ Associate Account Executive – The No. 29
Role: Support tech and innovation client accounts, media strategy, and brand partnerships
Hours: Full-time
Location: NYC
Apply here → hello@thenumber29.com (Subject: Associate Account Executive)

✨ Creative Studio Coordinator – ChappyWrap
Role: Assist with studio production, content creation, and photo operations in a growing product brand
Hours: Full-time, in-person
Location: Portland, ME
Apply here → Visit @chappywrap for full listing and link to apply

✨ Interior Designer – Studio M Interiors
Role: Join the Lake Geneva team to design beautiful residential interiors and lead client projects
Hours: Full-time
Location: Lake Geneva, WI
Apply here → ecohen@studiom-int.com

✨ Talent Coordinator – Of Note
Role: Support the discovery, management, and development of talent across creative industries
Hours: Full-time
Location: Remote
Apply here → ofnote.co/careers/talent-coordinator

✨ Senior Talent Manager – Of Note
Role: Lead talent relationships, strategy, and partnerships across a roster of creative clients
Hours: Full-time
Location: Remote
Apply here → ofnote.co/careers/senior-talent-manager

✨ Influencer & Partnerships Coordinator – Rhode
Role: Support the influencer and partnerships team by managing product gifting, influencer research, event coordination, and internal reporting. Ideal for someone detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about the beauty industry.
Hours: Full-time
Location: Los Angeles, CA (hybrid)
Apply here → rhodeskin.com careers

✨ Sales Roles – Poppi
Role: Poppi is hiring for multiple sales positions across the country—from Field Sales Reps to Regional Managers. Perfect for go-getters who love wellness, growth, and a fast-paced startup vibe.
Hours: Full-time
Location: Remote (various U.S. cities)
Apply here → drinkpoppi.com/careers

✨ Social Media Intern – Favorite Daughter
Role: Assist with content creation, community engagement, and trend research for the Favorite Daughter social channels. Ideal for someone creative, social-savvy, and eager to grow in the fashion space.
Hours: Part-time, internship
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Apply here → careers at Centric Brands

✨ Expert Guide – Charleston Rings
Role: Serve as a trusted consultant in custom ring design—guiding clients through Charleston Rings’ Truly Custom™ process with care, creativity, and a values-driven approach. Ideal for someone with luxury sales experience and a gift for relationship-building.
Hours: Full-time
Location: Charleston, SC
Apply here → Email resume, cover letter, and video to contact@charlestonrings.com with subject line: "This is the perfect job for me – Expert Guide"

✨ Retail Store Manager – Charleston Rings
Role: Lead in-store and e-commerce operations, manage the retail team, and drive exceptional customer experiences. Ideal for a seasoned leader with strong people skills and a love for meaningful retail.
Hours: Full-time
Location: Charleston, SC
Apply here → Email resume, cover letter, and video to contact@charlestonrings.com

Hope you’re having the best week! I loved Michaela’s reminder to seek harmony. Balancing it all can feel impossible—but even in the chaos, there’s room to find rhythm, to create something meaningful and beautiful. Rooting for you always.

With love,
Karissa

I mean it when I say: I was born this way. I came out of the womb with an affinity for bright colors, and 27 years on earth has only confirmed that. From the paint color I picked out for my childhood bathroom (a very bold pumpkin orange), learning I have synesthesia, to wearing a pink wedding dress, color has always been a huge part of how I experience the world.

I remember flipping through a book my mom had in the early 2000s about color seasons and being fascinated. Fast forward twenty years to Reels about “getting your colors done,” and the (pumpkin orange) spark was reignited.

The thing about growing up and getting dressed in the 21st century is that we’re constantly inundated by what’s popular, what brands are pushing, and what influencers are wearing—none of which has anything to do with what looks good on us. I know I’m not the only one guilty of buying something because it looked cute on her, only to feel meh on me.

Cue the color analysis. It spoke to me because if I’m going to get dressed every day, I might as well wear colors that make me feel beautiful. If I’m going to spend money investing in quality pieces, I should know which choices would harmonize with my features.

So a few months ago, I finally booked a session with Bloom Color Co—specifically with Annika, who made the whole thing so thoughtful, fun, and personal. I walked away with way more insight than I ever expected.

Let’s dive in!

🌸 What’s it really like?

The process is very thorough—and kind of therapeutic? You sit in natural light, makeup-free, and are draped with swatches of fabric, carefully observing what brings out a glow vs. what looks like you skipped your morning coffee.

You will learn…

• 💁🏼‍♀️ Your skin undertones, contrast levels, and what patterns flatter you most.
  I’ve never felt great in black and white prints, now I know why. It’s way too harsh for my features. And patterns…oof. This is one thing I might ignore: I love a bright pattern. But now I know high contrast maybe isn’t best.

• 🌸 Your color season: I’m a Light Spring. Soft warmth, low contrast, delicate and clear—suddenly my favorite pieces made so much more sense.

• 🌾 Which fabric textures work best on you.
  This blew my mind. I’ve always felt like linen & gauze looked off on me, and now I know why! I’m more suited to silks and shimmer—fabrics with movement and a little glow. Go figure… because those are the ones I always feel cutest in.

• 🤎 Your best neutrals.
  My takeaways: no harsh blacks, yes to warm creams and soft browns, and “washed black” over true charcoal.

• 💍 Jewelry tones that complement your skin
  Thankfully, I’m team gold—which works out perfectly since my wedding ring is too. But this is another area where trends don’t always serve us. Remember when silver was “out” for years? For for some women, it’s the most flattering choice, but felt uncool at the time.

• 💄 Makeup tips
  I switched to brown mascara after this and the difference is wild. It’s a tiny change, but it makes my eyes look brighter and bluer!

None of this is about tossing your whole wardrobe and starting over. It’s just giving yourself more tools. More information. More freedom. Knowing which tones work for you makes shopping easier—and getting dressed less frustrating.

Mirth Fabric | Coral blush | Brown mascara | A brown dress I’m eyeing

All the Colorful Details 🌈

Who is it for?
Anyone! But it’s especially helpful for:

• Postpartum Mamas who are adjusting to a new body & need confident closet staples.

• Starting a new season of life and revamping your wardrobe (new job, postgrad, all the kids are out of the house!)

• A Bride who wants to find her perfect shade of white.

• You & your teenage daughter—this is such a fun mother-daughter experience (for any age!)

Can you DIY it?
Sort of?? There are AI tools that can help you get close, but in-person is best. The nuance you get from real-life draping (and a trained eye) is worth it. Plus, who doesn’t want to be pampered?

How much does it cost?
It varies, but most sessions range from $200–$500 depending on location and what’s included (some come with swatch books, makeup recs, etc.).

Did it make you want to throw out your closet?
Not at all! It helped me understand why I gravitate toward some pieces and ignore others. It's not about tossing everything—it’s about building a closet that actually works for you.

What if I end up with colors I hate?
Annika told me most people already lean into their palette without realizing it—so it’s rarely shocking. And you don’t have to switch everything overnight. We’re conditioned to expect instant transformation. This is something you grow into over time.

Who did you see?
I saw Annika from Bloom Color Co and she was amazing. There are certified color analysts all over the U.S., and many offer virtual consults if you’re not local (Annika does!)

In the end, we’re all just trying to get back to ourselves—the real, true version that’s been buried under layers of makeup, cultural noise, busy schedules, and comparison. That version of you is still there. And there are colors, patterns, and textures that help people see you, not just what you’re wearing.

I’ve wanted to do this for years, and I’m so glad I finally did. It didn’t just help me dress better—it helped me feel more like me. You deserve to feel that way too.

With love,
Karissa

A few days into our new reality, I found myself always in the chair.

We had moved it from the nursery to the living room. It was supposed to be KC’s rocking chair. I imagined rocking a crying baby in it. I never pictured that I would be the baby—utterly broken and crying out for comfort.

I sat there while close friends came to comfort us, while others reached out virtually. That chair was where I realized just how much good there is in the world—an outpouring of love that shows up when people take the time to care, and when you let your walls down enough to receive it. I learned the heights of love and the depths of grief, right there in that chair.

I cried, bled, leaked milk, ached, and unraveled completely in that one small space. It became my place to fall apart. Oddly enough, I miss it.

I miss the rawness of those early days. I miss the closeness I felt to Kennedy Claire. Her memories were fresh—I could still feel her skin. Today, they’re faded. Already worn, and we’re not even a year in.

I miss having a designated place to grieve, to feel it all fully and without interruption. That unused rocker became sacred. It mothered me when I had no baby to mother. It held the weight of what I couldn’t put into words.

And it makes me wonder—how many times in our lives are we really given permission to be a complete mess? To be an utter disaster, to fall apart and be held? In the rat race that is modern American life, we’re lucky if we get that chance… ever.

The silver lining of KC passing (if you could even call it that) was that I got to experience a place of just existing that I never knew was possible.

No performing. No makeup. No hiding. I didn’t think about growing my business, how my social media posts were performing, or what so-and-so thought about me. That place of total pause was strangely beautiful.

The world kept spinning, but I had stopped. And in that stopping, I found the freedom to grieve. People loved on me, and I let them. The old me would have made a joke to make them feel better. Chair me didn’t. People cried with me, and I didn’t shy away. Old me would have handed them a tissue. Chair me asked, “Can you get me one?”

I miss my chair. Not the pain, but the permission it gave me to just be in it all. I’m only now beginning to process what it felt like to bow out of the busyness and exist without expectation.

Maybe it’s less about the place (the chair) and the circumstances (my daughter dying), and more about the freedom we allow ourselves to just be (and believe we’re worthy of that).

With love,
Karissa

Can we all agree that nothing is more mystifying than gift shopping for guys? I’m married to a very uncomplicated man, which means gifts feel especially complicated. Should I just wrap up a grass-fed steak? A new pair of socks? Those would probably suffice—but in case raw beef isn’t the vibe, here are a few ideas to get your wheels turning…

• Let’s be real, ladies: now is your chance to send some subtle hints…aka: Divi.

• It’s also a great time to switch your man to clean products. Primally Pure has a great beard oil & deodorant.

• Beard trimming kit (pairs best with beard oil, you get the idea!)

• Another swap: clean hair paste. (a great brand for clean self care for guys)

• I can’t believe the price on this 100% linen shirt! Connor has the short sleeve version & it’s in constant rotation.

• Anything Vuori will be a win, trust me. Kore shorts, Joggers, shirts, you name it.

• Hear me out, this t-shirt is kind of pricey but I swear it’s the only shirt that doesn’t get stained easily??? It’s made with some kind of magic.

• The non-toxic switch strikes again: gift him clean underwear! A great swap to make for conception as well.

• Okay, so maybe photos aren’t practical but also, how can he not love them? This frame rotates photos & would be perfect for dad or grandpa. | PS: Aura gave us a code to use! “DAD30” saves you money! Thanks for supporting. 🤎

• Connor’s latest obsession: a weed puller. As I said, an uncomplicated man.

• Waxed apron for grill nights! (Also a grill, or pizza oven)

• Our favorite steak seasoning, snazzy olive oil, sexy hot sauce!

• Air dried steak is beef jerky’s cool older cousin.

• Jeni’s ice cream. A pint will do, or you can get a whole pack!

• Yeti Rambler pour over with a bag of his favorite beans.

• Car wash membership- this is Connor’s #1 rec.

• Under $50: Anything Yeti is a win. Flask, Classic Rambler, or a can cooler.

• A steak (you thought I was joking, but no!)

• An air tag for things he loses often

• Turning the kids’ art into a gift (lots of ideas on Pinterest).

• A massage (men like them too!) or a robe.

• A meaningful card, list the reasons you love him.

• lots more gift ideas here!

As always, these holidays are hard—for those of us with daddy issues (hi!), complicated dynamics (aching to see my husband be a father to a living baby.) It’s all hard—and no amount of “stuff” changes that. But small things do bring joy, and if there’s anything I’ve learned in tough seasons, it’s that we have to lean into that.

So here’s to a little dad joy. Even if it’s just a really great steak. 🥩

With love,
Karissa

P.S. Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. I only share products we genuinely love. Thanks for supporting this community! 🤎

How is it June? Not to sound like your mom, but wow—time flies. May was a whirlwind. My first of many complicated Mother’s Days, a trip back home complete with all the memory lane stops, and finding out the gender of our second child. May was wonderful and hard, and I’m putting in a request for June to be a tad calmer—my nervous system could use a reset after all the highs and lows.

Keep reading for: cookies, color cravings, Amazon obsessions, habit tracker joy, and a big reveal I still can’t believe.

🍓 On the Table

• Cookies! Specifically royal icing sugar cookies. My best friend from back home taught me how to frost…and while I have a long way to go, it was nice to finally put my hours of cookie-decorating video consumption to good use.

• I’ve had these on my list for a while (okay, 2 weeks?) and finally baked them, in a Costco-sized tin no less. Not sure if it’s just my oven, but the bake time was way longer than what was listed in the recipe—FYI.

🕯️ Inspired By

• This mom’s outfits made me want to embrace color and confidence all over again. Being a mom doesn’t mean your clothes have to be boring!

• Speaking of color: More red. Donni here but really, any red has been speaking to me. Is this foreshadowing a little boy’s fire truck obsession in my future?

• Since I have “boy mom” on the brain, this made me teary. I also haven’t stopped thinking about this caption and comment thread—a must-read if you’re a boy mom or just feeling tender.

🪩 Bits & Bobs

• A great day to be a girl mom—Sofia’s Amazon Collection is stunning. Not such a great time to be a boy mom… but hey! I did add a few things onto our registry, which y’all so sweetly asked for.

• It’s always interesting to see what y’all love each month: this top was #1 (and these were a close second).

• Branch Basics is now in Target (in store and online!) and I’m so excited to be working with them on Instagram—it’s been a 10+ year dream to do paid partnerships like this one, and I’m beyond grateful for the chance. Thanks for cheering me on and reminding me to clean my house.

• I made this habit tracker on Canva and have been loving it—y’all have too! This month, I’m adding a weekly cleaning schedule to the rotation, inspired by Branch Basics and sage advice from seasoned mamas to set a schedule before baby.

• Trying to exercise self-control and haven’t gotten the Wishbone Kitchen cookbook yet—should I give in? I loved hearing Meredith on this podcast episode, if you need something to clean to.

  ---

🎀 Dressed In

• Limited edition mama crewneck from the sweetest small business.

• Contrary to most influencers, I rewear the same clothes a lot. If I spent the money on it, I’m going to get my money’s worth! This dress has been in constant rotation—expect to see it again soon.

• And for travel, my clothes were happily packed in these packing cubes from Calpak.

📖 Reading

• Picked up a few Nancy Drew books as a proud library card holder—cozy, classic, so satisfying. I appreciated how many exclamation marks Carolyn Keene uses—so uninhibited! and excited!

• Finished The Will of the Many—my first foray into the fantasy(ish) realm. TBH, not sure that genre is for me. I enjoyed the story but it was a bit over my head…guess that college degree doesn’t count for much in the real (or fantasy) world.

• I’m also endlessly scrolling this Cup of Jo comment section for nonfiction book recs—it’s gold. (Added this to my mile long TBR thanks to the suggestions!)

✨ Everyday Magic

There’s nothing like spending a week in my hometown— isn’t it perfect? Obviously I’m biased, but it was such a perfect place to grow up. It’s always funny coming home as an adult. You feel the same, and so different, all at once. This trip home wasn’t what I pictured last year—I thought we’d be bringing KC next time. It hurt that she wasn’t there, and it was healing to be home. As usual, everything is a mix of emotions.

🦢 Dear Diary

The biggest shock of the month: finding out Kennedy Claire is going to be a big sister to a little brother. It took a solid three weeks to wrap my head around the idea of a son—and the fact that I’m growing a male (!?!) inside of me—but now I’m truly excited (cue the collective sigh of relief). I know God handpicked this baby for us, for a very specific reason. How could I be anything but grateful for that?

📌 What You Might Have Missed in May

• I put together a guide to meals to bring a new mom—or, frankly, meals to ask for if you're in it.

• Finally began sharing The Story of Us, Part 1, as I’ve had to go back to the beginning after our future fell apart.

• And if you’ve ever wondered what it's like to work in interiors, this Q&A with a designer is full of real talk and practical tips.

Next month, I’m sharing Father’s Day gift ideas (can’t forget about Dad ), kicking off our first book club, and—best of all—revealing the results from my color analysis 🎨. I hope you’ll stick around for all the fun, I’m so thankful for this little community of like-minded, color-loving ladies! 💕

With love,
Karissa

P.S. If there are any newsletter topics you’d love to see, message me! I’m all ears 🌽

This months’s Jobettes features Audrey Scheck— Kindred client turned dear friend and dream jobette in every way. She’s an interior designer with serious taste and a sharp business brain behind the scenes. Plus, she drinks Dr. Pepper for breakfast (not exaggerating.)

If you’re trying to up your design game (aren’t we all?), this one’s for you. Audrey’s sharing what really goes into her work—from the five-phase process she guides clients through to the overlooked styling rules that instantly elevate a space.

THE SCOOP:
✨ Name: Audrey
✨ Dream Jobette: Interior Designer in Austin, Texas.
✨ Most people don’t realize: Her workdays are more spreadsheets than swatches—but just as creative.
✨ Easy upgrade tip: Clear every surface and start fresh—restyling can totally transform how a space feels.
✨ Design secret: Scale, proportion, and patience (projects often take years!).
✨ Current obsession: Unlacquered brass, bold patterns, and a little Western flair

Karissa: What’s part of being a designer that people don’t think about?
Audrey: The business side of design is often overlooked, which I totally understand. The beauty of a finished space can easily overshadow the hundreds of decisions and logistics happening behind the scenes. We guide most clients through five phases—discovery, design, procurement, construction, and installation—and some projects span several years! If you're a CEO running your own firm, you’re also managing a team, budgets, and internal systems on top of it all. While it might look like endless creativity on the outside, my days are usually filled with employee check-ins, financial planning, and process fine-tuning. I love every bit of it, thankfully!

Karissa: Key design details most people overlook?
Audrey: Scale and proportion! Especially if you're someone who moves often. Here are a few quick rules I always keep in mind:

• Use the largest rug possible to make your space feel expansive

• Keep at least 18" between furniture and the wall

• Maintain about 36" of walking space between major furniture pieces

How can someone make their home 1% better right now?
Clear off all your surfaces—console tables, side tables, counters—and gather your decorative objects in one spot. Then, re-style everything from scratch. Avoid placing items back where they were before. A simple styling reset with things you already own can completely change how a room feels. And how you feel in a space is what people remember most.

Your current favorite design trends?

• Polished hardware — un-lacquered brass or polished nickel with a shiny, reflective finish (bonus if it patinas over time).

• Pattern drenching — mixing florals, gingham, and stripes in the same room. I'm so here for the shift away from minimalism!

• Western touches — cowboy hats as decor, classic Americana art, utilitarian elements, and leather accents. The cowboy spirit is alive and well.

How to Connect with Audrey:

• Instagram | Expect daily posts with lots of home inspo!

• Her website

• Nominate ASD for Austin Home Awards Best Interior Designers

✨ Social Media + Content Coordinator – Pasta Girlfriend
Role: Manage social media and content creation for a creative food and art brand
Hours: Freelance/Part-time (~20 hours/month)
Location: Remote (U.S.-based; bonus if in LA)
📧 Apply via the link in bio: @pastagirlfriend

✨ Social Media & Marketing Intern – Emily Hertz / Born on Fifth
Role: Assist with social content, events, and creative projects
Hours: Internship (flexible hours)
Location: Atlanta, GA
📧 Apply by emailing your resume and a short note to: emily@bornonfifth.com

✨ Content & Marketing Coordinator – Alice Walk
Role: Content creation, digital marketing, and brand storytelling
Hours: Part-time
Location: Remote
Apply here →

✨ Marketing & Social Media Roles – The Essential Market
Role: Creative support across marketing, design, and content
Hours: Part-time and freelance
Location: Remote
Apply here →

✨ Marketing Assistant – Freckled Hen Farmhouse
Role: Support marketing and content creation for a home & lifestyle shop
Hours: Full-time
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Apply here →

✨ Marketing & Content Intern – Lulu Creative
Role: Assist with brand strategy, content creation & creative marketing
Hours: Internship
Location: Charleston, SC (hybrid or remote flexibility possible)
Learn more →

✨ College Intern – The Scout Guide Newport Beach
Role: Marketing, public relations, and business support for a local lifestyle publication
Hours: Internship (Summer 2025)
Location: Newport Beach, CA
📧 Apply by sending a resume + short note to: newportbeach@thescoutguide.com

✨ Sales Associate – Alice Walk
Role: Retail sales and customer service in a seasonal storefront
Hours: Part-time, seasonal
Location: Nantucket, MA
Apply here →

✨ Retail Associate – e.Allen Boutique
Role: Boutique sales and customer experience
Hours: Full-time
Location: Franklin, TN
📧 Apply by emailing your resume to:
megan@eallenboutique.com & tabitha@eallenboutique.com

✨ Interior Design Assistant – Anne McDonald Design
Role: Design support, sourcing, and project coordination
Hours: Full-time
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Apply here →

✨ Interior Designer – Paloma Contreras Design
Role: Support high-end residential design projects
Hours: Full-time
Location: Houston, TX
Apply here →

✨ Lead Interior Designer – Butter Lutz Interiors
Role: Lead design projects, manage clients, and shape creative direction
Hours: Full-time
Location: Austin, TX
📧 Apply by emailing info@butterlutz.com
Requirements: 3–5 years experience, Bachelor’s in Interior Design, proficiency in design software
More info →

✨ Interior Designer – Kelsey Leigh Design Co.
Role: Support design projects, manage client relationships, and bring creativity to high-end residential interiors
Hours: Full-time
Location: Edmond, OK
Apply here →

✨ Senior Designer – Light & Dwell
Role: Manage high-level client projects, mentor junior designers, and maintain creative excellence
Hours: Full-time
Location: Corvallis, OR
Job description PDF →

✨ Summer Design Intern – Cooper House
Role: Assist with production work, brand support, and design collaboration for client projects
Hours: Part-time, hourly (in-office 3 days/week)
Location: Oklahoma City, OK (hybrid)
Timing: June–August | Paid internship
📧 Apply by May 26 by sending your portfolio and a short intro to: inquiries@cooper-house.com
Proficiency in Figma/Illustrator and strong design sensibility required

✨ Marketing Manager – Noonday Collection
Role: Lead e-commerce growth, email strategy, and digital marketing campaigns for a globally minded lifestyle brand
Hours: Full-time
Location: Austin, TX (hybrid)
Apply here →

Happy Job hunting to you and yours! And don’t forget to follow Audrey for endless interior design inspo.

With Love,

Karissa

I was right all along, and yet in total shock. KC’s little sibling is a BOY! Pure disbelief, total surprise, and also satisfaction knowing my mom instincts were right this time. It’s like I know what I’m doing this time or something ;) (I don’t)

Was your guess correct?!

With Love,

A BOY MOM 😮

PS: Photos by Ma Chérie Creative Agency at Abide Studios! Dress is from Harper Sage

I hate answering how we met. “On Hinge” feels so 21st century and lame. I’m not embarrassed by the fact that we met on a dating app, I thank my lucky stars (or really, God) that our paths crossed in the form of a swipe. I hate the answer because it feels shallow, glossing over so many of the star-aligning moments that allowed us to be on the right app at the right time.

The short answer: we met on Hinge in October 2020.

The long story? It’s the story of us.

Love stories are magical—not because they’re perfect, but because they’re ours. They’re the beginning of our families, values, the start of a shared story only God could write.

When we lost Kennedy Claire, I found myself returning to the beginning—remembering how it all started. It helped me remember who we are and that everyone’s love story is worth sharing—even the silly Hinge ones.

Here’s ours.

When I set off for college in Texas, I was convinced my husband would be waiting for me. Unfortunately, he wasn’t. Texas was supposed to be the promised land flowing with milk, honey, & attractive Jesus-loving men (or wait, is that Utah?) Like every single girl, I tried to imagine myself with many guys on campus (testing Kennedy Claire’s name with every eligible bachelor’s last name…yep, I did that.) but the search was pointless.

I graduated in 2020, feeling very confused by the abrupt end to my college career and the fact that my MRS. degree was nowhere in sight.

That Covid summer was full of questions—like it was for most of us. Do I go back to Texas for grad school? Stay in Florida and forge a new path? Try something crazy (New York and a tattoo?) I labored over the decision all summer- it wasn’t that big of a decision but also, it felt like everything.

With the deadline to choose looming, I did the most important thing: lots of tanning. But one day as I was laying out in the yard, God showed up. I can count on one hand the “I’ve heard from God” moments, but this was one of them.

I had been mulling over the story of Abraham sacrificing Isaac for a few weeks. In that moment, in the yard, in a bikini of all things- God said plain as day: “you’re going up the mountain alone and I’ll provide a ram.”

A few months later, I was back in Texas. Confident that I was there for a reason, but very confused about what the actual reason was. I knew it wasn’t speech path (what I was in grad school for). I moved into the treehouse, studied from dawn till dusk and realized halfway through the fall semester that I wasn’t going to meet my husband in in a 99% female speech path cohort

Time to take matters into my own hands. Enter: Hinge.

And so the swiping began, but I established some ground rules first.

Rule #1: Fun only. No stress.

Rule #2: If his profile mentions alcohol, it’s a no.

It’s not that I was opposed to drinking, I just didn’t want that to be the main thing he was trying to convey about himself. Between that and the other strict preferences I had selected, the options in the tiny West Texas town I was in were sparse (and honestly, scary).

Call it desperate or creative, but after a fruitless search, I asked my grad school friend from Austin what the richest neighborhood was. “Tarrytown, I think?”
Great—worth a shot!

Turns out, all the men in Tarrytown are old and married (duh... it takes time to buy an 8.5 million dollar house). So I moved my “location” north just a bit. Maybe the men there would be borderline rich—but also in my age range?

It was then that I saw a very cute boy named Connor. But there was a problem. The first question on his profile was “What’s the best margarita in Austin?”

Sigh.

Guess he’s not the one….or so I thought.

More to come!

XOXO,

Karissa

Kennedy Claire was born on July 19th.

The first time I made dinner again was well into September.

That is the blessing of community. That is the power of meals. When everything felt tender and new, food (and friends!) showed up at our door. They brought warm meals, familiar faces, and a little bit of normal in the middle of something that was anything but.

It didn’t bring Kennedy Claire back. But in a way, it brought me back to life. I’ll never stop being grateful for our meal train and the people who made it overflow. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up for someone walking through something hard (or new, or exhausting) —a meal is a really good place to start.

✨ Who Needs a Meal?

This isn’t just for new moms. Meals can be a lifeline in all kinds of seasons—when a single mom is in the thick of it, when a friend is grieving, when someone’s healing or just barely holding it together.

When we moved to Minnesota, an Instagram friend messaged, “Are you coming to church today? If so, I’m bringing dinner for you.” We’d never even met before?! That’s kindness- and it stuck with me.

You don’t have to be best friends to bring a meal—you just have to notice. Maybe it’s a mother figure who’s always caring for everyone else. Maybe it’s a family that just moved, someone going through treatment, or a household walking through something heavy. A meal is never just a meal. It’s so much more than that.

🍽 How to Set Up a Meal Train

Ask first:

• Any allergies or preferences? (gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, etc.)

• Any aversions? (Sometimes people don’t want another casserole!)

• The cadence of Meals? (Usually 3-4 a week is a good amount to avoid leftover city.)

• Best time to drop off? (Morning = snacks and breakfast. Dinner = reheat and done.)

• Delivery preference? (Leave it and go, quick hug at the door, or come in and say hi?)

• Who to coordinate with for meal drop off? (mom? dad? A sister or close friend?)

• Email for gift cards (Uber Eats is everyone’s love language, tbh.)

• Who is sending the meal train out? (Will mom text it to friends and family? Who will circulate it on FB and to Great Aunt Rosemary? Have a game plan before mom is sleep deprived!)

Where to organize:

• MealTrain.com – simple and widely used. (My#1 Choice)

• TakeThemAMeal.com – good for filters and calendar swaps.

• GiveInKind.com – lets you organize more than meals.

🍳 Breakfast is…Queen

• Breakfast Casserole: You can make this ahead of time and freeze!

• Quiche: Tons of variation, you can play around with what’s in season/preferences.

• Freezer Egg McMuffins: This is my go-to! Egg, cheese, English muffin, bacon, repeat!!

• Muffins: One of the most overlooked foods, in my opinion.

• Overnight Oats: A lighter alternative for breakfast.

🍪 Snack Packs (Especially for 2 am)

• Lactation Cookies: Packed with oats, flaxseed, and brewer's yeast to support nursing moms.

• No-Bake Protein Balls: Quick and easy snacks with various flavor options.

• Homemade Granola Bars: Chewy and naturally gluten-free, perfect for on-the-

• Cut Fruit = Luxury: So many of you echoed this sentiment: fruit is key! Fresh, pre-cut fruit helps cut down on tasks and keeps mom hydrated.

🍲 Main Meals

• Pasta Party! Baked Rigatoni, Lasagna, or Mac & Cheese are all great options- Check the Meal Train website though to make sure there aren’t too many pasta dishes on the menu already.

• Rice Bowls: You can take these in a million different directions, Greek, Mediterranean, Indian- the sky is the limit. Prep the elements individually and you can drop off anytime.

• Soup: Warm and comforting, perfect for healing. Try Chicken Noodle, Turkey Chili, or a hearty potato soup.

• Sheet Pan Dinners: Delicious and easy to make (the best part.)

📝 Think Outside the (Casserole) Dish

Before you pack up that tray of enchiladas or prep your go-to soup, here are a few ways to make your meal feel even more like a gift:

• Double It & Freeze It
Split your recipe into two portions—one for now, one for the freezer. Label the frozen one clearly with the name, date, and reheating instructions. (Check to see if they have freezer space! If not, double it and eat it yourself!)

• Avoid the Casserole Clash
Check the meal train calendar to make sure you’re not the third person bringing baked ziti this week. Variety = joy!

• Include Reheating & Assembly Notes
If anything needs to be baked, tossed, or assembled (buddha bowl toppings or your friend-group-famous salad dressing) jot it down. Bonus points if it's on cute paper!

• Use Disposable Containers & Paper Goods
Nothing to return = nothing to worry about. You can even include a stack of paper plates, napkins, or utensils so cleanup is easy breezy beautiful. (Ikea has inexpensive glass pans you can buy and plan to never see again!)

• Label Everything
Even if it seems obvious to you, label the date, contents, and any key notes like “contains dairy” or “gluten-free.”

Thoughtful Extras

• Gift card to a local coffee shop for getting out of the house

• Snacks or small toys for older siblings

• Fresh bread, dessert, or flowers

• Olipop or Poppi- ask what her favorite beverage is!

💌 For Faraway Friends

Ever moved across the country? 🙋🏼‍♀️ Even if you can't be there in person, you can still show up.

• Healthy Snack Boxes: send a box with granola bars, dried fruits, nuts, and of course BEEF JERKY!

• Grocery Store Gift Cards: Different than takeout gift cards, these help the family ease back into normal life.

• Meal Delivery Services: no explanation needed (but also, later on, something like Hello Fresh might be a fun option

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It’s worth noting that the second you leave your friend and her new baby behind, intrusive thoughts about whether the chicken was fully cooked or not will start to arise. Making a meal for someone is vulnerable! It’s brave and takes effort to put your heart on a plate. Expect a few nagging thoughts as you return home. Was there a hair in the cookies? How did they like the sauce?? Did I season it enough??!

No matter what you make, kindness matters more than perfection. Chances are, the chicken was delicious. They didn’t send a thank you text because the baby was up all night, not because they got food poisoning. You showed up, and that’s a beautiful thing.

Let’s keep showing up, for all the women in our lives. Sometimes the best way to do that is through dinner.

With love,
Karissa

April was Austin (see the full guide here), aunt-hood (again!!), and appreciation. I felt it in the simple things—having the house (mostly) in order and taking walks without my parka. The month was full of good books, lots of baking, longer days, and the slow joy of settling in.

In this month’s edit: an electrolyte discussion that sparked a full-blown debate, the drawstring pants saving me from a leggings-only existence, the cookbook typo that deserves justice, and the meals I’ve been dropping off for new moms. Plus a few good reads, one big bird update, and a nostalgic magazine haul. Let’s get into it.

🍓 On the Table

• We hosted Easter and, as usual, I went overboard—but it was so fun! Until my back hurt for three days after, ha. I had the best time planning the menu, coming up with creative presentations, and fussing over all the little details. Biggest hack: Costco quiche. Game changer.

• I’ve also been making meals for new moms this month. While I don’t totally know what a “normal” postpartum experience is like, I do know that not having to make dinner is a gift—no matter how easy or hard postpartum is. This recipe was a hit, along with my standby soup.

🕯️ Inspired by

If you’re reading this, I bet you went to see Pride & Prejudice in theaters—we’re kindred spirits, after all! I hadn’t watched it in a few years (and hot take: I think the 1995 version is superior), but this time, what caught my eye were the interiors.

Maybe it’s growing up, or maybe it’s owning a home, but I couldn’t stop fixating on the wallpaper patterns, drapes, color palettes, and ornate details.

Okay fine, I want to move to Pemberley. Sue me.!!! Or at least let me make my house just a little more grand.

P.S. This article is a fun read!

🪩 Bits & Bobs

• Does this combo sound yum or yuck to you? I don’t like ice cream… but weirdly, this sounds good to me? Will report back!

• I shared that I’m switching to electrolytes without natural flavors, and I didn’t realize it would spark so much debate.

• This really should be called Bits & BABS—aka the biggest cookbook misprint of all time. Justice for Babs and her no-Photoshop-needed arms!

• Apparently I’m a big bird lady? I forgot I have three… and I’ll soon be adding six more! I took a backyard chicken class at the local community center as a refresher on poultry ownership. All I can say is: I’m ready for eggs to never be out of stock again!

• Mother’s Day is coming (I shared a whole gift guide here), but this is my present: a custom silhouette of KC. Yes, I cried. And Mom, act surprised when you get one too.

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🎀 Dressed In

PANTS! Maternity pants are a struggle—what I wouldn’t give for that feeling of zipping up high-waisted jeans and feeling snatched and cute.

In the meantime, this drawstring pair is saving the day (and me from wearing leggings 24/7). Here’s another pair I like, plus my favorite Texas top to go with them.

📖 Reading

• Once Upon a Time — I loved this biography of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. The fact that so many tragedies happened to one family is truly baffling. I think this might become my summer rabbit hole.

• MAGAZINES! I treated myself to a nostalgic trip to Barnes & Noble and walked out with an armful (Rue was my favorite). In this digital age, I hope we never lose the joy of flipping through a magazine—the beauty of something physical is unmatched.

• Careless People — Another interesting read, all about the early days at Facebook. The behind-the-scenes scoop was fascinating, but wow—the way they treated motherhood made me shudder.

✨ Everyday Magic

I’ve been thinking a lot about home—and how our instant gratification culture has skewed the concept. Home isn’t about having everything perfect in a few weeks. It’s about building layers over years: layers of love, memories, and objects that reflect them. It’s about collecting—carefully and intentionally—not just adding to cart.

Am I still buying things? Of course. But mostly, I’m trying to understand this house: how it’s meant for us, and how we can make it a place that feels truly special. Good things take time. And Instagram reel remodels skip over the long middle.

We made a lot of progress on the house in April, but it’s still years away from being finished- and that’s a good thing.

🦢 Dear Diary

I’ve been terrified for Mother’s Day. But recently, I had a change of heart.

Yes, I’ll be inundated with posts proclaiming love for babies and how motherhood is the best thing ever—and that will be hard. But I’ve found two solutions:

1. Get off my phone that day (duh)

2. Remember that I am a mom—to the best babies.

How lucky I am to be a mom to two babies! Neither of whom I’ve really met, but that doesn’t make them any less real. If anything, it makes the love and the anticipation of knowing them one day even greater. I don’t want to wish away my own Mother’s Day joy, even if it’s complicated and not what I pictured.

My Mother’s Day motto is this: I’m so glad I get to be KC’s mom.

With love,

Karissa