I know... it's only July. The kids are still out of school, it's 95 degrees outside, and the last thing most of us are thinking about is Christmas. But between "Christmas in July" sales popping up everywhere and retailers already advertising holiday deals, it got me thinking about something else—the holidays have a funny way of arriving much faster than we expect.

If you've followed along with my blogs for a while, you know I occasionally like to sprinkle in a little bit of my own life. So, I'm excited to finally share that my husband and I are expecting our first baby!

There's just something about the Fourth of July on the Grand Strand. Whether you're spending the day on the beach, grilling with family, or out on the boat, it always seems to end the same way—looking up at a fireworks show. One of my favorite things about living here is that you don't have to travel far to find one. From North Myrtle Beach all the way down to Georgetown, there are plenty of places to celebrate Independence Day, and many of the events are completely free.

Summer has officially arrived on the Grand Strand, which means beach days, boat rides, and long evenings outside. Unfortunately, it also means the start of hurricane season.

Summertime has finally arrived at the grand strand, and unfortunately, hurricane season came right along with it. Living near the coast, we are in hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th. Thinking about a potential hurricane can be somewhat stressful. However, being educated and prepared can help relieve a bit of that anxiety.

The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic is officially back this week, and honestly, it’s becoming one of my favorite events of the entire spring season here on the Grand Strand. There’s just something really fun about seeing Myrtle Beach show up on the national golf stage while the whole community leans into the excitement of it all.  My husband is a huge golf fan, so I’m excited to take him back with me again this year, and one of my favorite golfers, Brooks Koepka, is playing, so it’s going to be an exciting few days. 

May has a way of filling up quickly. One minute your calendar feels manageable, and the next it’s packed with events, travel, and celebrations. This year alone, I’ve got a Kentucky Derby party, the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, my sister’s physical therapy school graduation, travel for Mother’s Day, and the CAF Gala—all things I’m genuinely excited about, but all things that come with a cost. And that’s the part we don’t always talk about: how quickly a “fun” month can also become an expensive one.

ArtFields is officially back for 2026, and if you’ve been before, you already know it’s one of those events you look forward to all year. If you haven’t, this is your sign to go ahead and plan a visit. This year’s festival is bigger than ever, running from April 10 through May 2, 2026, giving you even more time to experience everything Lake City has to offer.

Farmers markets are starting to open back up for the season, and there’s something about that first weekend they return that feels like a true start to spring. Stands fill up with fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and local products, and suddenly a simple Saturday morning errand turns into something you actually look forward to. It’s not just about what you’re buying—it’s the experience of being there.

If saving money still feels difficult, even when you’re budgeting, being mindful, and trying to make smart decisions, you’re not alone. A lot of people feel this way right now. You can be doing all the “right” things and still feel like you’re not getting ahead as quickly as you expected, which can be frustrating and, at times, discouraging.