Rolling Into Renovation: Why I’m Loving DIY Camper & RV Reno by Janelle and Chadwick Payne 🚐

If you know me, you know how much I love our RV adventures—morning hikes, campfire dinners, slow drives down back roads. But let’s be honest: most RVs and campers aren’t exactly charmers right out of the gate. They’re functional, yes… but inspiring? Not always.

So when I picked up DIY Camper and RV Reno by Janelle and Chadwick Payne, I instantly felt like I’d found my new favorite project guide. It’s part DIY manual, part design inspo, and part permission slip to make your space (even if it’s on wheels) feel like you.

🛠 A Guide for Real-Life RV Living

This book isn’t just for full-time RVers or seasoned DIYers—it’s for anyone who’s looked around their camper or trailer and thought, “This could be so much better.”

Janelle walks you through every stage of a camper reno, from the first swipe of paint to installing faux beams, shiplap walls, and even peel-and-stick tile (yes, real tile is totally possible in a tiny rolling home!). It’s beautifully photographed, easy to follow, and honestly, just really inspiring.

Whether you’re dreaming about updating your RV kitchen, freshening up a dated dinette, or just want to add personality to your weekend camper, this book gives you the tools—and the confidence—to make it happen.

🌸 What I Love About It

Creative ideas that are doable – Nothing feels over-the-top or out of reach. She shows how small updates (like painting the cabinets or swapping out light fixtures) can completely transform a space.
🔧 Step-by-step tutorials – From countertops to cushions, this book covers it all with visuals and real-life advice.
🌿 Sustainability is woven in – Repurposing, reusing, and working with what you’ve got is a big part of her approach.
💪 Empowering and encouraging – Janelle’s “you’ve got this” vibe is contagious. She’s proof that you don’t need to be a pro to make something beautiful.

🚐 A Cozy Home, Wherever You Park It

We’ve been slowly refreshing little parts of our RV—nothing major yet, but this book has me seriously eyeing a kitchen redo. I’m already dreaming about white walls, warm wood countertops, and linen curtains blowing in the breeze. It’s all about creating a space that feels like home, no matter where you’re parked.

And as someone who loves sustainable living, I appreciate that Janelle promotes using what you have, sourcing smart, and investing in pieces that will last.

📚 Ready to Get Inspired?

If you’re dreaming of camper life, tackling a renovation, or just love beautiful, down-to-earth design books—you’ll want DIY Camper and RV Reno on your shelf. It’s one of those books you’ll flip through again and again, not just for the tips, but for the energy it gives you.

You can grab a copy here.

Here’s to cozy camper kitchens, adventures on the road, and spaces that feel like home—even with wheels.

The Cookies That Disappeared Way Too Fast 🍪

We’re not usually big on pre-packaged treats around here. We do most of my baking from scratch with simple, real ingredients, and when I want something sweet, it usually comes from my own oven.

But every now and then, you need something easy, allergy-friendly, and safe to grab on the go, and that’s exactly where Mightylicious comes in. These cookies are soft, satisfying, and a solid gluten-free option when you want something quick, sweet, and safe to share.

Here are two we tried and yep, they disappeared fast. In fact, I said to Jayson more than once… “are you eating MY cookies?” 😉

🥥 Gma Arline’s Oatmeal Coconut Cookie (Gluten-Free + Vegan)

This one stole the show for me. Soft and chewy, just the right amount of sweetness, and that toasty coconut flavor that makes you want to pour a cup of tea and take a break. I love that they’re gluten-free and vegan (and maybe passed down from a grandma who really knew what she was doing).

You can grab them here → Oatmeal Coconut Cookie

🍫 Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie (Also Gluten-Free)

This one’s a classic! Soft, melty, and just the right amount of indulgent. Perfect for a lunchbox treat or those late-afternoon “I need chocolate now” moments. If you’re dairy-free, gluten-free, or just picky about your cookies (raises hand), you’ll love this one too.

Find it here → Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie

🍦 Fun Treat Idea: Ice Cream Sandwiches!

These cookies are perfect for a quick, fun dessert. Here’s how we’ve been making the easiest (and yummiest) allergy-friendly ice cream sandwiches:

You’ll need:
– 1 pack of Mightylicious cookies (we love using the Oatmeal Coconut or Chocolate Chip!)
– Your favorite non-dairy ice cream (vanilla bean, chocolate, or even cookie dough!)
– Optional: mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for the edges

To make:
Let the ice cream soften just a bit. Scoop a generous spoonful onto one cookie, sandwich with another, gently press, then roll the edges in your favorite toppings. Freeze for 30 minutes or until firm… and try to share. 😉

Perfect for spring celebrations, warm weekends, or honestly—just because.

🌿 Sweet, Safe, and Shareable

Mightylicious bakes all of their cookies in a dedicated gluten-free facility, and they’re free of the top 9 allergens—which means more people can enjoy them, stress-free. They’re made with real ingredients and so much heart (you can taste it in every bite).

These are the kind of treats I feel good keeping on hand for family, for guests, or let’s be honest… for myself. Just the right amount of sweet. Just the right kind of simple.

📦 Shop all the Mightylicious cookies here, but maybe order a few packs. They go fast.

Why Electric Mowers Are a Smart Swap for Greener Yards

Gas-powered lawn mowers have been around for a long time, but they’re not exactly eco-friendly. They’re loud, messy, and give off pollution every time they’re used. That might not seem like a big deal at first, but all those small emissions add up—especially when a mower is being used every week. That’s why more people are switching to electric mowers. They’re cleaner, easier to use, and a better choice for anyone who wants a yard that looks good without harming the planet.

What Makes Gas Mowers So Problematic

Most gas mowers run on small engines that don’t burn fuel very cleanly. They release carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants into the air every time they run. In fact, running a gas mower for just one hour can pollute as much as driving a car for hundreds of miles.

There’s also the issue of spilled fuel. Filling up a mower at home can lead to drips and spills, which soak into the ground or run off into nearby drains. That’s not great for soil or water, especially if it happens often.

Then there’s the noise. Gas engines are loud. They interrupt conversations, scare pets, and definitely don’t blend into a peaceful, green space.

Switching to cleaner, quieter tools—like electric lawn mowers—is one of the easiest ways to make yard care better for the environment. They don’t need gas or oil, and they run quietly while still cutting grass just as well as the old-school versions.

Electric Mowers Don’t Create Emissions While Running

Battery-powered lawn mowers run on electricity, so they don’t give off any fumes while they’re being used. That means no greenhouse gases from the engine, and no bad smells in the air. They’re cleaner to operate, and they don’t contribute to ground-level air pollution.

For people who care about their environmental impact, using a tool that doesn’t burn fuel is a big improvement. And since they don’t need gas or oil, there’s no need to store any extra fuel around the house, either.

The batteries used in electric mowers can be charged using regular outlets, and many last long enough to mow an entire average-sized lawn on one charge. Some even work with other yard tools that use the same battery system, which makes things even easier.

Quieter Tools Mean Less Disruption

Electric lawn mowers make a big difference when it comes to noise. Instead of a loud engine roar, they give off a soft hum. That’s better for the person mowing, better for neighbors, and better for anyone who enjoys spending time outside.

Using quieter tools also helps protect wildlife. Loud noises can scare away birds and small animals or keep them from coming back. With an electric mower, the yard stays peaceful while still getting trimmed.

In areas with sound restrictions or close housing, using a quiet mower also means fewer complaints or problems. It’s a simple fix that makes lawn care more enjoyable and less disruptive.

Easier to Maintain and Use

Another reason electric mowers are becoming more popular is because they’re easier to handle. There’s no need to change oil, clean spark plugs, or worry about fuel lines. Most electric models just need a charged battery and a quick push of a button to start.

They’re also lighter than gas mowers, which makes them easier to push and steer. That helps get the job done faster and with less effort. For people who want something that’s simple to use without all the mess, electric options just make more sense.

Since they don’t need much maintenance, they also last longer with less upkeep. That saves time and cuts down on waste from old, broken mower parts.

Better for Smaller Yards and City Homes

Electric mowers are a perfect match for small and medium-sized lawns. Most can cover those spaces on one battery charge, and they’re compact enough to store in tight sheds or garages. For homes in the city or suburbs, this kind of mower is a lot more convenient.

They also don’t leave behind oil stains or fuel smells. That’s a big plus when storing them close to the house or near garden supplies.

For people living in apartments or townhomes with shared green spaces, electric mowers can also be shared more easily because they’re clean, quiet, and don’t require fuel refills.

Helping the Environment One Yard at a Time

It might not seem like switching your mower makes much of a difference, but it actually does. When more people stop using gas mowers, there’s less pollution in the air, less fuel being used, and way less noise in the neighborhood. That makes the whole area nicer for everyone.

Even a small change—like using a mower that doesn’t run on gas—can really add up over time. It’s one of the easiest ways to be more eco-friendly without having to do anything complicated.

And electric mowers are getting better every year. They’ve got stronger batteries now, better cutting power, and smart features that make mowing way easier than it used to be.

What to Look for in an Electric Mower

If you’re thinking about making the switch, it helps to know what to look for. A good electric mower should be light enough to push easily, powerful enough to cut through thick grass, and able to run long enough to finish the whole yard on a single charge.

Some models have extra features, like:

  • Adjustable cutting heights
  • Foldable handles for storage
  • Mulching or bagging options
  • Swappable batteries that work with other tools

These things don’t just make mowing easier—they help keep your yard looking better with less effort and waste.

Final Thoughts

Electric lawn mowers are a smart choice for anyone who wants to keep their yard neat while being kinder to the planet. They run cleaner, make less noise, and are easier to take care of than gas models. For smaller lawns and regular mowing, they’re more than enough to get the job done. And when it comes to greener living, switching to electric is one of the simplest steps you can take—starting right in your own backyard.

Everyday Elegance: Why I’m Loving the Handcrafted Quality of the M. Aviann Geneva Ballet Flats

Finding a pair of ballet flats that are both comfortable and chic is harder than it sounds—especially if you care about quality, craftsmanship, and longevity. But the moment I slipped on a pair from the Geneva Collection by M. Aviann, I knew I had found my new go-to shoes.

These aren’t just your average flats—they’re handcrafted with intention, built from premium materials, and made to last. They offer a timeless design with thoughtful details that make them feel elevated without trying too hard. Whether I’m running errands, traveling, heading to brunch, or slipping them on after a long day in heels, they always deliver on comfort and style.

✨ Handmade Craftsmanship You Can Feel

Each pair in the Geneva Collection is carefully handcrafted, and you can feel the difference the moment you put them on. The quality is obvious: from the buttery-soft materials to the durable soles, these shoes were made with comfort and longevity in mind.

👣 Supportive, cushioned insoles make them a dream for all-day wear
🌱 Sustainably made in small batches to ensure quality and reduce waste
🧵 Thoughtful stitching and attention to detail means they’ll hold up for years
👡 Flexible construction allows the shoes to mold to your feet while maintaining structure

No blisters. No pinching. Just buttery-soft flats that feel like a second skin—and look effortlessly polished with everything from jeans to dresses.

💫 Timeless Style That Goes With Everything

The Geneva flats strike that perfect balance between classic and current. They’re the kind of shoe you can wear season after season without ever feeling out of date.

✔️ Dress them up with a midi dress or trousers for the office
✔️ Pair them with jeans and a sweater for an elevated everyday look
✔️ Pack them for travel—they take up almost no space and go with every outfit
✔️ Keep them in your bag as a stylish, comfy backup to heels

They come in a range of gorgeous neutral tones, so whether you love warm camel, soft blush, or classic black, there’s a pair that’ll fit right into your wardrobe (and your lifestyle).

💼 Built to Last, Not Just Look Good

What really sets the Geneva Collection apart is the quality construction and wearability. These flats aren’t just pretty—they’re designed for real life.

💪 Durable soles that hold up to long walks and daily wear
🧽 Easy-to-clean materials that maintain their look over time
👜 Lightweight enough to toss in your tote or travel bag
🌎 Thoughtfully made to reduce waste and promote slow fashion

In a world of fast fashion, it’s refreshing to find shoes that are made with intention and integrity. These flats were built to last, which means fewer replacements, less waste, and more value over time.

👟 The Flats You’ll Reach for Every Day

I’ve tried a lot of ballet flats over the years, and most fall into one of two categories: cute but uncomfortable, or comfy but frumpy. The Geneva flats by M. Aviann are that rare gem that checks all the boxes.

They’re:
✅ Beautifully handcrafted
✅ Comfortable enough to wear all day
✅ Stylish and versatile
✅ Made to last for seasons (and years) to come

If you’re looking to upgrade your everyday shoes with a pair that’s both elegant and easy, this collection is worth every penny.

👉 Shop the full collection.

The M. Aviann Geneva Collection isn’t just about shoes—it’s about thoughtful fashion. These handcrafted ballet flats are a reminder that when you invest in quality, you’re not just getting something beautiful—you’re getting something that lasts.

So whether you’re stepping into the office, heading out for coffee, or packing light for your next trip, these are the flats you’ll keep reaching for—again and again.

💬 Have a favorite color or style from the collection? Let me know how you’re styling yours!

How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden in 6 Easy Steps

Wildlife is wonderful to have flying about your space, which is why you want to encourage it as much as possible for the benefit of your garden.

Not only is it a wonderful view to be able to lounge outside with all the wildlife buzzing or flying about you, but it can help to boost your garden’s growth of plants and flowers through cross-pollination. 

With that in mind, here are some helpful tips to create a wildlife-friendly garden in six easy steps.

  1. Build a pond

A pond is a great way to attract local wildlife, and if you’re willing to throw in a few fish, then this will assist with additional wildlife finding its way into your outdoor space.

Of course, any body of water, like a pond or a lake, will need regular maintenance. Lake weed removal is important, as is making sure any ponds or lakes are well fenced off from little ones and pets.

Not everyone will find a pond to be useful or wanted in the garden, but if you’re looking to encourage a variety of wildlife, from frogs to pond skaters, then installing a pond might be a good idea.

  1. Compost food waste

To help nourish your soil and attract bugs of all kinds, you should look to compost any and all food waste that you can. Composting food waste is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that goes directly into your trash bin, but also to improve soil health and therefore attract wildlife.

Compost also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can do damage to the environment over time.

  1. Feed the birds

Birds are a great addition to your garden, and they can be a great way to encourage more wildlife, like squirrels, to the garden too.

Feeding the birds with bird feeders and bird houses so that they can also nest is helpful to the environment. By giving them food and shelter, you’re helping them flourish and thrive in an environment that’s constantly changing. Not only that, but as more green space makes way for property, these bird boxes and bird feeders are crucial.

  1. Native plant selection

Try to select plants that are native to your local area, rather than choosing any species that might otherwise harm the ecosystem. As wonderful as some species of plants and flowers can look, you might be endangering your other native plants as a result.

Try to select the plants that will thrive in your space so that your investment of time and money is well spent, too.

  1. Let the grass grow

Letting the grass grow is a good way of encouraging wildlife to come into your garden and make it their home. If you’re cutting down the grass too short and too regularly, then it’s not going to allow certain wildlife the opportunity to make use of it.

Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is important, so make use of these tips to transform yours into a wildlife haven.