Subscribe now

Creator Spotlight Questions

This Week’s Featured Creator

This week, I’m delighted to introduce Sam Messersmith, the writer behind Wandering Willow

Quick Introduction

I first discovered Sam’s Substack about a year ago and was immediately drawn to her deep connection with the natural world and her beautiful sense of belonging within it.

Sam shares herself and her creative work with a genuine, grounded authenticity. She invites readers into her community with open arms, and before long, it feels like stepping into a space that is safe, nurturing, and deeply restorative.

What shines most is her perspective on our relationship with the natural world, one that feels both grounding and deeply inspiring.

I hope you enjoy getting to know Sam as much as I have.

Conversation with Sam Messersmith

What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when they spend time there?

The heart of my Substack—well, my Substack is called Wandering Willow because of a love of nature and a longing to wander. I think wandering can be done anywhere: in the inner world or the outer world. My thoughts wander quite a lot, and wandering in nature is a good way to spend some time, à la forest bathing, as I am also a Forest Therapy Guide.

The heart of it is just remembering that we are nature. We’re not part of nature; we are nature. Nature is almost always a mirror for exactly what we need, and/or it holds space for what we need. Nature is at the heart of everything that I do, and so it’s quite an inspiration for my writing as well.

I hope that readers experience some curiosity in my space. I think curiosity is a great way to live—getting curious about the natural world and our place in it. Perhaps even choosing to think differently about how we see the more-than-human world, and ourselves.

Ultimately, I want freedom, peace, safety, and connection for myself. Those are my pillars, and I hope that maybe people would experience that as well when they spend time at my Substack, Wandering Willow.

My outdoor writing space—there is always a cat nearby (or on my notebook) when I write. Han (left) and Chewy (right)

What inspired you to begin writing or creating on Substack?

This question is always one of my favorites because, in a nutshell, Forest Therapy is the reason that I’m here on Substack.

I’ve written about how Forest Therapy changed my life here. I had a bit of a burnout moment and quit my job with no safety net. There were a lot of mental health struggles at the time, and after trying a lot of different modalities and therapy, I still wasn’t finding the relief that I needed.

I went down an internet rabbit hole and found Forest Therapy. As soon as I read about it, something clicked, and I knew it was for me. I wanted to become a Forest Therapy Guide before I had even gone on a walk. Reading about the premise of forest bathing was enough to hook me, but once I actually experienced it, it was a truly mystical, magical, life-changing experience.

That experience put me on the path to becoming a certified Forest Therapy Guide. In doing that, there’s a certain return to yourself that happens. I’ve noticed that a lot of people in transitional phases of life are drawn to this work, and that was certainly true for me.

It helped me rediscover myself, come home to myself, and reawaken the writer in me.

I used to play on a typewriter as a kid before I even knew how to spell. I wrote short stories as a preteen, poems as a teenager and into my twenties. Writing has always been how I process my emotions. Then life got busy, and that part of me faded into the background.

Forest therapy gave me the space and quiet to remember who I am. It’s a deeply spiritual and powerful practice for me, and the writing came naturally from that experience.

I’d always had “work from home, writing” on my vision board, even before the pandemic. The pandemic brought the work-from-home part, and Forest Therapy brought the writing.

I’ve always had this deep urge to write. I can’t fully explain it—it’s just something I’ve always needed to do. Substack finally gave me a place to share that writing with other people. And honestly, I also thought I’d make money. Anyone who’s been here a while knows it’s possible, but it’s not easy. That’s ultimately what brought me to Substack.

Photo of me in Tazewell, TN in 2024 where I completed my Forest Therapy Guide training

Subscribe now

Is there a topic, question, or idea that continually calls you back in your work? If so, what is it, and why does it matter to you?

The idea that continually calls me back in my work is that everything is connected. Everything is connected.

Where I feel that most strongly is in nature. Nature is the place where I remember. Nature is the place where I can listen and be taught and be held, and be accepted for who I am. It feels like home in the deepest sense of the word.

Nature is where I remember that we are connected. We are nature. We’re not only connected to nature—we are nature. In the forest, I’m connected to the trees through my breath, and I can feel that connection when I’m there amongst the trees and the grass. There’s no separation between us. Just fully experiencing that same sunlight on me and the wind on my skin, and knowing it’s all one single thread that runs through all of life.

I know that there’s also so much more to life, to the world, to the universe, and that we’re still all connected. Even the planets have their own influences on us, from the tides to astrology and sunlight. It just really reminds me that we’re all connected. Everything is connected.

For me, that also means I belong in that. I’m accepted in that, and those are threads that I’ve been pulling at all my life—to just feel like I belong.

Photo taken by me in Tazewell, TN 2024. Hearts in nature are my jam.

If your writing or creative work could make one meaningful difference in someone’s life, what would you hope that difference would be?

I hope for the things that I wish I had.

They say that there’s a loneliness epidemic, and we all feel so disconnected. For me, I struggle to feel like I belong. So I want that for myself, and I want that for everyone.

I want everyone to feel like they belong, that they’re connected to something greater. They’re connected to each other as human beings. They’re connected to the plants and animals and elements. I hope they can feel a true sense of connection and know that they belong.

They deserve to be here, on this planet, in this place, at this time. They inherently belong, and the world needs them and their gifts to be shared here. They’re here for a reason.

Me at Coopers Rock, WV in 2025. My husband is the source of the bubbles, at my request.

A Favorite Photo

This photo is of my husband and me, on September 23, 2016. We celebrated our 1st Wedding Anniversary with a paint night. It is my favorite painting we’ve created together (we’ve done many date night paintings at Painting with a Twist). Painting in a group is really fun, and I was surprised at how much my husband enjoyed painting and the process. He absolutely gushes over my work, and it’s one of my favorite things about him. These paintings hang just above our tv, and I look at them everyday.

What is something that brings you joy or peace in your everyday life outside of writing?

Our two cats bring me a lot of joy and peace every day, and also some frustration too if I’m being honest haha. They keep me grounded, and mindful. They remind me to take breaks and play. They also remind me to eat lunch when I get way too focused on a task and forget to eat. Their silly antics make me laugh. They always have to come with me when I go out on the deck, even if I’m just watering the plants for 5 minutes. Tending to our potted zinnias and marigolds has brought me a lot of joy this year too.

Featured Article

Birdsong is a Basic Need

It felt like a homecoming—a softening, a small opening to wonder, and a beautiful reminder of how healing nature can be.

Click the link below to read:

Birdsong is a Basic Need

Creator Contact Information

Gather in community once a month to share what is lighting you up at:

Show and Tell for Grown-Ups.

Creator Name: Sam Messersmith

Publication Name: Wandering Willow

Subscribe Here

Anything else you’d like readers to know?

If you’re longing for a gentler relationship with yourself and the more-than-human world, I’d love to welcome you to Wandering Willow. I’m also slowly growing into offering online forest therapy experiences, alongside my writing, for those who feel called to remember their connection with nature.

If This Resonates With You

One of the most meaningful ways to support a creator is simply to read their work and stay connected to it.

If something here speaks to you, I encourage you to take a moment to explore Sam’s Substack.

You can also support their work in small but powerful ways:

• Subscribe to their publication so you don’t miss new writing

• Leave a comment to let them know what resonated

• Restack or share a piece you loved

• Pass their work along to someone who might need it

These small actions are what help independent writers continue creating and what make spaces like Substack feel alive.

Interested in Being Featured?

Creator Spotlight exists to celebrate writers, artists, and creators whose work brings meaning, reflection, creativity, and connection to the Substack community.

If you’d like to be considered for a future feature, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to discovering new voices and sharing work that deserves to be seen.

You may also enjoy this earlier reflection on lifting voices and supporting one another within the Substack community:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Want More Discoveries Like This?

If you’re enjoying Creator Spotlight, I invite you to subscribe to Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Each week, I feature a creator whose work brings insight, creativity, encouragement, and heart into the world.

If you’d like these discoveries delivered straight to your inbox, I’d love to have you join us at Savor Life Studio.

Thank you for being part of a space where creators support creators and thoughtful work is shared and celebrated. Your presence here means the world to me.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

Explore More Creator Spotlights

Meet Courtney Cunningham, the first creator featured in Creator Spotlight, and discover the heart, inspiration, and story behind her work. Click below to read.

Creator Spotlight: Courtney Cunningham

________________________

Meet John Rinaldo, one of Substack’s most inspiring and courageous voices whose writing and conversations stay with you long after you’ve experienced them.

Creator Spotlight: John Rinaldo

________________________

Meet Saira Anwar, an award-winning poet whose writing is filled with insight, courage, compassion, and wisdom that linger long after her words have circled your heart.

Creator Spotlight: Saira Anwar

________________________

Meet Dr Christine DiBlasio, A psychologist, martial artist, and writer weaving trauma, resilience, and hope into meaningful change.

Creator Spotlight: Dr Christine DiBlasio

More From Savor Life Studio

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

Subscribe now

Quick Introduction

Collaborating with Dr. Christine DiBlasio has been an inspiring and delightful experience, and I could not be more excited to introduce you to her creative work, passions, and remarkable accomplishments.

Christine’s conversational writing style invites readers to engage, reflect, and pull up a chair to linger within her welcoming and healing community.

Her extensive work as a psychologist, combined with her background in martial arts, brings deep compassion and insight into her writing and fuels her commitment to meaningful change.

Christine’s breadth of knowledge around trauma, resilience, violence prevention, and empowerment illuminates pathways toward healing and hope.

I sincerely hope you enjoy getting to know Dr. Christine DiBlasio as much as I have.

What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when they spend time there?

There is no doubt that times are hard.

The antidote, at least for me: hope, compassion, connection, courage, and knowledge—all while working for meaningful change. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of people working together for good and the importance of connection and compassion. Together, we can make a difference.

One of my mantras: “Hope is a renewable energy source.” Furthermore, hope is a prerequisite for positive change.

My Substack capitalizes on my background as a psychologist with 30+ years of experience working with trauma survivors. This is uniquely paired with my martial arts background (5th-degree black belt). Over 20 years ago, I co-founded a non-profit that integrates advances in trauma research with movement-based approaches to foster violence prevention and trauma recovery. This has been incredibly inspiring and meaningful work.

I bring passion for all of these topics to my posts.

My writing leans towards a conversational, informal style. I welcome comments, questions, and suggestions. I’d like it to feel like you are talking with a friend. Because you are!

What inspired you to begin writing or creating on Substack?

As a child, I found that reading and writing were lifelines, helping me cope with everyday stress.

In 2025, I began a desired career transition. That, paired with current events, prompted me to start writing on Substack and to revive that legacy coping strategy.

My initial goal was modest: to connect with and bring hope to just one person. In the end, I have made many wonderful connections and enjoy learning about a wide range of topics from so many talented writers here on Substack.

Is there a topic, question, or idea that continually calls you back in your work? If so, what is it, and why does it matter to you?

That is a tough one.

Trauma, resilience, healing, empowerment, safety, and well being are common themes. I also share information on violence prevention strategies. These topics relate to my life’s work, and I remain incredibly passionate about each of them.

Lastly, humor—and animals—have saved me from many dark times. I try to bring lightness to my writings when possible, while maintaining respect for the topic under discussion. And I frequently share photos of my adorable cats or other animals I find along the way.

Subscribe now

If your writing or creative work could make one meaningful difference in someone’s life, what would you hope that difference would be?

That is an easy one!

Quite simply, I want readers to know this:

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. You matter. Your experiences matter.

Healing is possible.

And…I’m listening.

Is there a favorite photo you would like to share with readers? It could be a photo of yourself, a place you love, something you’ve created, or anything meaningful to you. Please tell us a little about why you chose it.

It was hard to choose, as I have thousands of photos that I love! This photo was taken on an ordinary summer day, after spending time with friends. My husband and I wandered over to watch the sunset, and a friend captured this peaceful and gorgeous scene. Lake Champlain is simply beautiful.

A second favorite is below. I call this “Turtle Parade”. We see this all the time on the Lamoille River in VT, yet it never ceases to make me smile.

What is something that brings you joy or peace in your everyday life outside of writing?

Three things immediately come to mind:

• Movement is my medicine. I run, practice karate, weight train, bike, walk, kayak, play pickleball—you get the idea!

• Nature. I simply love being out in nature.

• Connecting with trusted friends.

Anything else you’d like readers to know?

I love to collaborate on topics of mutual interest. I welcome ideas or suggestions for future posts as well.

Click below to view:

A question and answer session with USA TODAY's 2023 Women of the Year honoree for Vermont. Christine DiBlasio

Featured Posts:

“Art Informed by Science”

Dr Christine DiBlasio

July 22, 2025

Mental Health Matters

Dr Christine DiBlasio

May 12

Haunted by the Shadow of Trauma

Dr Christine DiBlasio

June 25, 2025

The Emotional Cost of Caring

Dr Christine DiBlasio and Ordinary Therapist

Jan 7

Connect With This Creator

Creator Name: Dr. Christine DiBlasio

Publication Name: Unsilenced, For Good

If This Resonates With You

One of the most meaningful ways to support a creator is simply to read their work and stay connected to it.

If something here speaks to you, I encourage you to take a moment to explore Dr Christine DiBlasio’s Substack.

You can also support their work in small but powerful ways:

• Subscribe to their publication so you don’t miss new writing

• Leave a comment to let them know what resonated

• Restack or share a piece you loved

• Pass their work along to someone who might need it

These small actions are what help independent writers continue creating and what make spaces like Substack feel alive.

Interested in Being Featured?

Creator Spotlight exists to celebrate writers, artists, and creators whose work brings meaning, reflection, creativity, and connection to the Substack community.

If you’d like to be considered for a future feature, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to discovering new voices and sharing work that deserves to be seen.

You may also enjoy this earlier reflection on lifting voices and supporting one another within the Substack community:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Want More Discoveries Like This?

If you’re enjoying Creator Spotlight, I invite you to subscribe to Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Each week, I feature a creator whose work brings insight, creativity, encouragement, and heart into the world.

If you’d like these discoveries delivered straight to your inbox, I’d love to have you join us at Savor Life Studio.

Thank you for being part of a space where creators support creators and thoughtful work is shared and celebrated. Your presence here means the world to me.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

Explore More Creator Spotlights

Meet Courtney Cunningham, the first creator featured in Creator Spotlight, and discover the heart, inspiration, and story behind her work. Click below to read.

Creator Spotlight: Courtney Cunningham

________________________

Meet John Rinaldo, one of Substack’s most inspiring and courageous voices whose writing and conversations stay with you long after you’ve experienced them.

Creator Spotlight: John Rinaldo

________________________

Meet Saira Anwar, an award-winning poet whose writing is filled with insight, courage, compassion, and wisdom that linger long after her words have circled your heart.

Creator Spotlight: Saira Anwar

________________________

More From Savor Life Studio

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

Subscribe now

Creator Spotlight

This Week’s Featured Creator

This week, I’m delighted to introduce Saira Anwar, the writer behind Saira The Poet

Quick Introduction

I have been enjoying Saira’s treasured words, poetry, and friendship on Substack for over a year.

Her writing is filled with insight, courage, compassion, and wisdom that linger long after her words have circled your heart.

I had the privilege of reading Saira’s poetry collection, Rising From Despair. It is a journey of light, love, and inspiration. Each poem breathes hope into daily rhythms, offering encouragement with every turn of the page.

The accompanying writing prompts offer powerful, thoughtful questions that gently guide the reader toward deeper self-understanding and their own journey of healing and discovery.

Saira explores tender and universal themes, and you will find yourself returning to her poetry and words of hope, courage, and faith again and again.

I sincerely hope you enjoy getting to know Saira as much as I have.

Conversation with Saira Anwar

What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when they spend time there?

This is a space for those learning to belong to themselves again. I write poetry and reflections on heartbreak, loss, self-abandonment, and rebuilding identity after emotional rupture. I share a weekly Friday newsletter featuring poems, reflections, and writing prompts with a growing community. I hope that when readers spend time here they feel seen, a little less alone, and reminded that their story is not over.⁣ ⁣

What inspired you to begin writing or creating on Substack?⁣ ⁣

My brother has been encouraging me since the beginning of my writing journey to start a newsletter. It was him who helped me put out the very first issue on 27th December 2024. In my first year I was finding my feet with how Substack works. I found it daunting and had no idea how it worked at first. But I have come to love doing a newsletter every week and am now in my second year.⁣ ⁣

Is there a topic, question, or idea that continually calls you back in your work?⁣ ⁣

Belonging. It is the thread that runs through everything I write. The question I keep returning to is how we find our way back to ourselves after heartbreak, loss, and self-abandonment. After experiences that stripped us of our confidence, our light, and our sense of who we are. That journey back to belonging, to yourself, to hope, is what my poetry and reflections are always reaching towards.⁣ ⁣

If your writing could make one meaningful difference in someone’s life, what would you hope that difference would be?⁣ ⁣

That they felt less alone. That they read a line and recognized something they had been carrying without words for it. I don’t write to fix anyone. I write to name what is real, to say I see you, and to remind them that what they lived through was always worth acknowledging. If someone closes my newsletter feeling a little less alone in their experience, that is everything.⁣ ⁣

Subscribe now

A Favorite Photo

I would love to share photos from the year Rising From Despair came into the world. I chose these particular photos because they capture the milestones of Rising From Despair’s first year in the world.

• The Strange Inc. Book Awards 2025

• Indies Today Awards 2026 Semi-Finalist sticker represent two separate international recognitions from US based award organizations.

I am deeply grateful that the book continues to be recognized in literary spaces. The photos from Khushi Festival in August 2025 and MNW Grand Annual Open Mic Night in September 2025 show me performing and sharing my work with live audiences. And the photo from Ruth O’Reilly’s show on AllFM in July 2025 captures one of the earliest and most meaningful moments of the book’s journey, being celebrated on radio just weeks after publication.⁣ ⁣

I am deeply grateful for everyone who has walked this journey with me. Thank you to each person who has supported this book and believed in the power of healing through words. May this continue to be a book that meets people where they are, and reminds them they are not alone.⁣ ⁣ ⁣

What is something (or several things) that brings you joy or peace in your everyday life outside of writing?

Outside of writing, my faith brings me the most grounding and peace. It is the anchor beneath everything I do. I find joy in family, in sharing meals together, and in the simple pleasure of a walk in nature.

I love reading, performing at open mic nights and events, and the warmth of meeting friends. And my Substack community has become a genuine source of connection and joy. The people who show up every Friday, who share their own journeys, who simply sit with the words, they mean more to me than I can say.

Celebrating Saira: Award-Winning Poet and Author of Rising From Despair: A Journey to Hope

Saira is an award-winning poet, author and spoken word artist, and the author of Rising From Despair: A Journey to Hope, Winner of the Strange Inc. Book Awards 2025 and Semi-Finalist in the Indies Today Awards 2026. Rising From Despair: A Journey to Hope celebrates its one-year anniversary on 27th June 2026.⁣

What makes this book unique is that every poem comes with a journaling prompt, so you can begin your own healing journey alongside mine.

Available across Amazon, Waterstones, and all major retailers.⁣

Signed and numbered copies available through my website: ⁣

Saira Anwar Website

Thank you so much for reading. Here is how to connect with Saira.

Creator Contact Information

Saira Anwar⁣

Publication Name: Saira The Poet by Saira Anwar⁣ ⁣

If This Resonates With You

One of the most meaningful ways to support a creator is simply to read their work and stay connected to it.

If something here speaks to you, I encourage you to take a moment to explore Saira’s Substack.

You can also support their work in small but powerful ways:

• Subscribe to their publication so you don’t miss new writing

• Leave a comment to let them know what resonated

• Restack or share a piece you loved

• Pass their work along to someone who might need it

These small actions are what help independent writers continue creating and what make spaces like Substack feel alive.

Interested in Being Featured?

Creator Spotlight exists to celebrate writers, artists, and creators whose work brings meaning, reflection, creativity, and connection to the Substack community.

If you’d like to be considered for a future feature, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to discovering new voices and sharing work that deserves to be seen.

You may also enjoy this earlier reflection on lifting voices and supporting one another within the Substack community:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Want More Discoveries Like This?

If you’re enjoying Creator Spotlight, I invite you to subscribe to Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Each week, I feature a creator whose work brings insight, creativity, encouragement, and heart into the world.

If you’d like these discoveries delivered straight to your inbox, I’d love to have you join us at Savor Life Studio.

Thank you for being part of a space where creators support creators and thoughtful work is shared and celebrated. Your presence here means the world to me.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

Explore More Creator Spotlights

Meet Courtney Cunningham, the first creator featured in Creator Spotlight, and discover the heart, inspiration, and story behind her work. Click below to read.

Creator Spotlight: Courtney Cunningham

________________________

Meet John Rinaldo, one of Substack’s most inspiring and courageous voices whose writing and conversations stay with you long after you’ve experienced them.

Creator Spotlight: John Rinaldo

________________________

More From Savor Life Studio

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

Subscribe now

Creator Spotlight

This Week’s Featured Creator

This week, I’m so excited to introduce John Rinaldo, the writer behind The Positive Pen.

Quick Introduction

One of the gifts of joining Substack was discovering writers like John early in my journey.

I was immediately drawn to his natural and profound gift with words and mesmerized by the way he brings them to life. His writing has a remarkable ability to spill onto the page and find its way straight to your heart within moments.

A few months ago, I had the supreme pleasure of reading John’s inspiring book, Earned Not Given. This powerful story of courage, tenacity, and hope is written with such depth of spirit and authenticity that it reaches the very core of the human experience.

John’s gifts travel far and wide across Substack. His ability to connect creators, uplift voices, and build a compassionate community is deeply inspiring.

Reading his responses reminded me of his resilience, compassion, and generous spirit, all of which shine through so clearly.

I sincerely hope you enjoy getting to know John as much as I have.

Conversation with John Rinaldo

What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when they spend time there?

The heart of *The Positive Pen* is hope, resilience, and authentic storytelling. Life is filled with challenges, setbacks, and unexpected turns, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth, healing, and connection. The Positive Pen is more than a publication to me. It is a collection of stories, lessons, and reflections that I hope will leave footprints for my children long after I am gone. No matter where life takes them, they will always have a place where they can reconnect with my thoughts, my experiences, and a part of who I was.

When readers spend time with my work, I hope they feel encouraged, understood, and reminded that they are not alone in whatever journey they are facing. If my words help someone find hope, perspective, or the strength to keep moving forward, then I have accomplished what I set out to do.

What inspired you to begin writing or creating on Substack?

I’ve always believed in the power of stories. Throughout my life, I’ve experienced personal challenges, health scares, family struggles, and moments that forced me to rethink what truly matters. Writing became a way to process those experiences and share lessons learned. Substack offered a platform where I could connect directly with readers and build a community around meaningful conversations rather than algorithms.

Is there a topic, question, or idea that continually calls you back in your work? If so, what is it and why does it matter to you?

The idea I continually return to is perseverance. How do we keep moving forward when life doesn’t go according to plan? Whether it’s overcoming loss, rebuilding relationships, recovering from illness, or pursuing a dream later in life, I am fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit. It matters because every person faces difficult chapters, and I believe our stories can help others navigate their own.

If your writing or creative work could make one meaningful difference in someone’s life, what would you hope that difference would be?

I hope my writing encourages someone not to give up. If a reader feels inspired to take one more step, have one more difficult conversation, pursue one more dream, or simply appreciate another day, then my work has served its purpose.

Sometimes the smallest shift in perspective can change the course of a person’s life. I call it the soul work of a life lived. Some days are beautiful. Some days are difficult. Both shape who we become. Both are worth experiencing, and both are worth writing about. Through our stories, we find meaning, connection, and the reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, there is still something worth holding on to.

Subscribe now

A Favorite Photo

One of my favorite photos is of my children and our support dog, Remi. My children inspired me to write Earned, Not Given, a book about perseverance, personal growth, and the lessons learned through life’s challenges. Remi inspired me to write Remi’s Journey, a story told from his perspective. In the photo, Remi is sitting in his favorite chair, watching the world outside—a spot where he spends much of his day keeping a close eye on everything around him. This image represents family, inspiration, and the stories that have shaped my writing journey.

Another meaningful image is a photograph of one of my paintings. It was created during a time when I began finding peace within myself, and, surprisingly, it was also when I rediscovered who I truly was. The painting symbolizes healing, self-reflection, and the personal growth that helped me reconnect with myself.

Featured Article

The Day I Stopped Feeling Sorry for Myself

There was a moment when I realized no one was coming to save me. No one was going to fix my problems, carry my burdens, or change my circumstances. As difficult as that realization was, it became the turning point in my life. It was the day I stopped feeling sorry for myself and started taking responsibility for the life I wanted to build. Sometimes the hardest truths become the foundation for our greatest growth.

Click the link below to read:

The Day I Stopped Feeling Sorry for Myself

What is something that brings you joy or peace in your everyday life outside of writing?

The simple things. Walking our support dog, Remi, in the early morning before the world wakes up. Watching a sunrise over the water. Spending time with my children. I especially enjoy exploring different places and spending time on the water boating. Traveling and discovering new destinations remind me how big the world is and how much there is to experience beyond our daily routines.

I also find peace in creating whether it's writing, painting, photography, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee and my thoughts. As I've gotten older, I've learned that joy isn't usually found in the big moments. It's found in the ordinary ones we take the time to notice.

Thank you so much for reading. Here is how to connect with John.

Creator Contact Information

John Rinaldo

The Positive Pen – Stories of resilience, personal growth, and the soul work of a life lived.

Substack: The Positive Pen

Podcast: Stories, Soul Work & Substack

Film Project: Ciao Bello: Forgotten in the Shadows

Bookstore: The Positive Pen Bookstore, featuring writers, authors, and independent creators

Publisher: Rinaldo & Partners Publishing

If This Resonates With You

One of the most meaningful ways to support a creator is simply to read their work and stay connected to it.

If something here speaks to you, I encourage you to take a moment to explore John’s Substack.

You can also support their work in small but powerful ways:

• Subscribe to their publication so you don’t miss new writing

• Leave a comment to let them know what resonated

• Restack or share a piece you loved

• Pass their work along to someone who might need it

These small actions are what help independent writers continue creating and what make spaces like Substack feel alive.

Interested in Being Featured?

Creator Spotlight exists to celebrate writers, artists, and creators whose work brings meaning, reflection, creativity, and connection to the Substack community.

If you’d like to be considered for a future feature, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to discovering new voices and sharing work that deserves to be seen.

You may also enjoy this earlier reflection on lifting voices and supporting one another within the Substack community:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Want More Discoveries Like This?

If you’re enjoying Creator Spotlight, I invite you to subscribe to Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Each week, I feature a creator whose work brings insight, creativity, encouragement, and heart into the world.

If you’d like these discoveries delivered straight to your inbox, I’d love to have you join us at Savor Life Studio.

Thank you for being part of a space where creators support creators and thoughtful work is shared and celebrated. Your presence here means the world to me.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

More from Savor Life Studio

Meet Courtney Cunningham, the first creator featured in Creator Spotlight, and discover the heart, inspiration, and story behind her work. Click below to read.

Creator Spotlight: Courtney Cunningham

________________________

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

Creator Spotlight

This Week’s Featured Creator

This week, I’m delighted to introduce Courtney Cunningham, the writer behind Not a Niche.

Quick Introduction

When I first arrived on Substack over a year ago, Courtney was one of the first creators I connected with.

I deeply admire the honesty and openness Courtney brings to her writing.

Through her reflections and stories, she shares her journey with authenticity, courage, and grace, creating a space where readers feel both welcomed and understood.

I loved reading Courtney’s thoughtful responses to the questions below and learning more about the heart behind her work.

I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I have. 💖

Conversation with Courtney Cunningham

What is the heart of your Substack, and what do you hope readers experience when they spend time there?

My Substack is called Not a Niche because it’s about life– all of life. I share the stories I’ve lived and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’ve learned lessons through relationships, jobs, nature, family, and so much more. When I share these stories my intent is to provide comfort, connection and hope. I want others to see that they too can overcome challenges and learn from them. Some of my biggest lessons have involved counting my blessings, staying patient, being true to me, and keeping the faith. These themes reoccur throughout my writing.

What inspired you to begin writing or creating on Substack?

I’ve been on Substack for almost a year and a half. I discovered it because a friend said they had started one. At that point, I’d heard of Substack before but had no idea what it was. I followed the link to hers and started exploring. It was love at first sight.

I had no idea there was a writing focused platform like this. I’d been wanting to write for some time but didn’t have a place to do so. That changed the moment I found Substack. I had so much to say that had been inside me for years. I started writing immediately and haven’t looked back. It’s my therapy. I process through writing. So, it was a place to write at first but then I stayed because the community is so incredible. I’m constantly inspired by everyone here. Their words, images, ideas, art– it’s all a reminder to do what you love.

Is there a topic, question, or idea that continually calls you back in your work? If so, what is it and why does it matter to you?

I get called back every time I realize a lesson I’ve learned, which is a lot. I view challenges as lessons. Whenever life presents me with obstacles, I know they’re going to result in growth. When the lessons appear clearly, I feel called to write. I’d say this is the #1 thing that calls me back. Other times, I’m working through the lesson and writing helps me realize it. It matters to me because I want to help others. If life taught me something through a challenge, maybe someone else has faced a similar situation and my lesson will help them. It all comes back to providing a space of comfort, connection, and hope.

If your writing or creative work could make one meaningful difference in someone’s life, what would you hope that difference would be?

If I can make just one person realize that they are perfect just the way they are, that would be the difference I hope to make. My biggest lesson has been that staying true to me and my heart’s call– living in complete alignment– has led me to be my happiest self and once that happened, opportunities started flowing to me. The truer we are to ourselves the more life opens up for us.

A Favorite Photo

This photo was taken at the top of Cutthroat Pass in Washington. It’s not that the picture is necessarily a favorite but the day was monumental. I had been struggling for a couple of years– I wanted to move back to North Carolina but my husband didn’t. It had become a major issue in our relationship. When we rode the trail on this day, I saw Golden Larches at their peak for the first time in my life. I’d dreamed of witnessing this natural occurrence. I had no idea that they were peaking when we started the ride that day. My head was filled with worry and concern about what I wanted versus my husband and how we weren’t seeing eye to eye. When I rounded the corner to see those Golden Larches, I knew in an instant that everything would work out. Seeing something in person that I’d dreamed of seeing for so long made me realize that all things come at the right time.

The next day, we were visiting a dear friend who lives in Washington but owns a home in North Carolina. While we were visiting, they learned that the man renting their property in N.C. had unexpectedly passed away. We also learned that the rent on the house which sits on 20 acres was $500. Long story short, we now live in that house. I’m back in North Carolina and couldn’t be happier.

This photo fully captures me feeling and knowing that everything would work out in time.

I chose it to remind others that your dreams will come true when the time is right. Be true to you, keep the faith, and stay patient. It’s all coming.

Featured Article

I’d like to share a link to my article focused on a goal setting model I created, The HEART Guide. Here is the article. This guide was born when I’d had enough with writing SMART goals and needed something more focused on following my heart. It’s helped me so much and I hope it helps some of you.

My name is Courtney Cunningham and my Substack is Not a Niche. Link to it here.

As always, sending love.

If This Resonates With You

One of the most meaningful ways to support a creator is simply to read their work and stay connected to it.

If something here speaks to you, I encourage you to take a moment to explore Courtney’s Substack.

You can also support their work in small but powerful ways:

• Subscribe to their publication so you don’t miss new writing

• Leave a comment to let them know what resonated

• Restack or share a piece you loved

• Pass their work along to someone who might need it

These small actions are what help independent writers continue creating and what make spaces like Substack feel alive.

Interested in Being Featured?

Creator Spotlight exists to celebrate writers, artists, and creators whose work brings meaning, reflection, creativity, and connection to the Substack community.

If you’d like to be considered for a future feature, feel free to reach out. I’m always open to discovering new voices and sharing work that deserves to be seen.

You may also enjoy this earlier reflection on lifting voices and supporting one another within the Substack community:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Want More Discoveries Like This?

If you’re enjoying Creator Spotlight, I invite you to subscribe to Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Each week, I feature a creator whose work brings insight, creativity, encouragement, and heart into the world.

If you'd like these discoveries delivered straight to your inbox, I'd love to have you join us at Savor Life Studio.

Thank you for being part of a space where creators support creators and thoughtful work is shared and celebrated. Your presence here means the world to me.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

More from Savor Life Studio

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

Subscribe now

What Feels Meaningful Here

There are moments in writing when something begins to shift quietly, before you even fully name it.

I have been noticing that here.

For a long time, Savor Life Studio has been a place where I share personal reflections about life, creativity, and the process of slowing down enough to notice what matters.

And I still love that deeply.

My daily flower and nature posts, along with wishes and reflections, bring deep and soul-filling joy into my daily rhythms.

But lately, I have been thinking more about what it means to not only share my own reflections, but to also hold space for other voices.

Because something I have come to realize is this:

Some of the most meaningful parts of writing are not just the moments when we express ourselves, but the moments when we recognize ourselves in someone else.

A sentence that feels familiar.

A story that echoes something unspoken.

A voice that makes us feel less alone.

That is what I want to deepen here.

This has been a constant theme throughout my time here on Substack, and I find my joy expanding when I’m:

• Discovering new creators

• Lifting and sharing voices

• Building a sense of community

Long before Creator Spotlight, I was thinking about how powerful it is when we choose to lift each other’s voices. I shared some of those thoughts here:

Lifting Others Lights the Way

Introducing Creator Spotlight

So beginning this week, I’m introducing something new alongside my Tuesday reflections.

On Fridays, I will be introducing a Creator Spotlight, where I feature writers and creators from Substack and share their work in their own voices.

I’m especially excited about this week’s very first Creator Spotlight and can’t wait to introduce you to a wonderful writer on Friday. 💖

There is something deeply meaningful to me about not only writing, but also helping other writers be seen.

Tuesdays will remain my space for personal reflections, stories, and thoughts from my own creative journey.

Fridays will become a space to celebrate and highlight the work of others.

And together, these two rhythms feel like a more complete expression of what Savor Life Studio is becoming.

Not just a place where I write, reflect, and share my experiences in life and nature.

But a place where creative voices are celebrated, shared, and discovered.

Treasured Connections

What makes this especially meaningful to me are the connections that have formed along the way.

Some of my most treasured moments on Substack have come through the kindness, encouragement, and thoughtful conversations shared within this community.

Those connections continue to inspire what Savor Life Studio is becoming.

This desire to build community has been quietly present since my first day on Substack.

Again and again, I find myself drawn to the writers who encourage, inspire, and generously share their creativity with others.

Creator Spotlight feels like a natural extension of that joy.

A way to celebrate the people who make this community such a meaningful place to spend time.

If you are here reading this, thank you for being part of this unfolding space. I am deeply grateful for you as Savor Life Studio continues to grow and evolve.

With so much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖

________________________

Recently published

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection
Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight
Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table
Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖

If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days

.

Subscribe now

If the word “Retirement” is pounding a rhythm in your mind 24/7, you have landed yourself in exactly the right place.

When I retired 14 months ago, I reveled in the fact that alarm clocks were no longer jolting me from a deep sleep, and morning coffee instantly became a cherished ritual.

What surprised me most, however, was the immediate stripping away of roles, responsibilities, and routines that had defined my life for more than three decades.

And what remains is you, looking at yourself in the mirror and wondering:

What now?

And for many people:

Who am I?

Retirement is far more than a financial decision.
It is a profound life transition that affects your routines, relationships, identity, and sense of purpose.

To help prepare for this monumental shift, here are five important questions worth asking before you retire.

Question #1: How Much Money Is Enough?

Looking Beyond the Numbers

Let’s begin with the question that drives most retirement decisions.

How much money is enough?

If I paid attention to retirement predictions and financial gurus, I would most likely be advised to retire at the ripe age of 95 and not one day sooner.

Thankfully, I listened to the rhythms of my heart, ran the numbers, and stepped away when I realized I had enough of systems that no longer nourished my spirit.

Financial Calculators Are Only Part of the Story

If you type “retirement calculator” into Google, you’ll find no shortage of tools designed to estimate financial readiness.

No matter which one I tried, the message often felt the same:

“Please, please don’t retire. You are clearly not prepared at this time.”

But calculators cannot account for lifestyle choices.

• When you travel, do you prefer a tent campsite or a luxury hotel?

• Do you shop at thrift stores or designer boutiques?

• Do you enjoy eating out regularly, or are you happiest preparing meals at home?

Financial tools can estimate costs and expenses, but only you can determine what truly matters in the daily workings of your heart and soul.

On paper, I never should have retired at age 58.
In real life, I couldn’t be happier with the decision.

Three Changes That Helped Us Thrive

After making the decision to retire, we adjusted a few areas of our lifestyle to reduce financial stress.

1. Set a travel budget and stick to it.
My husband and I now enjoy one overnight getaway each month instead of several longer trips. We still enjoy time away together while saving for larger adventures down the road.

2. Pay close attention to date budgets.
Each weekend, we set aside $50 for dates.

One of our favorites is grabbing a slice of our famous local pizza, ordering a side salad, and watching ferries and ships pass through the inlet.

Total cost: about $30.

That still leaves room for ice cream, gelato, or another small treat.

3. Make sure the money is already in the bank.
This one is simple.

If you don’t have the money for a purchase, wait.

It’s easy for credit card spending to gradually stretch beyond what feels comfortable in retirement.

Anything worth having is worth waiting for until it can be paid for in full.

Subscribe now

So, How Much Money Is Enough?

At a minimum, you’ll want to comfortably cover:

• Housing expenses
• Utilities
• Food
• Transportation
• Medical expenses
• Travel and recreation
• Taxes and insurance

Having emergency savings available can also provide peace of mind.

And if you plan to work part-time during retirement, that can significantly change the financial equation.

Ultimately, your retirement portfolio is just that, yours.

Only you can decide when the numbers, your lifestyle, and your heart align.

For me, that moment arrived much sooner than the experts recommended.

It remains one of the most satisfying decisions I’ve ever made.

(The experiences shared here are my own and are not intended as financial advice or a sole guide to retirement decisions.)

Question #2: What Do You Value Most: Time, Energy, Health, or Money?

Before you decide to retire, ask yourself this simple question:

What is more important to me:

• my time
• my energy
• my health
• or my financial security

This question alone can help clarify whether you are ready to step into retirement.

There is no correct answer. I know several people who absolutely love their work and have no desire to retire. My Dad worked until he was 80 years old and passed away at 87. He found deep purpose and meaning in his work throughout his life.

In my own life, age 58 became the point where time with loved ones, exploring new paths, and following shared dreams and passions outweighed all other factors.

Question #3: What Brings You Joy Within Your Daily Rhythms?

This question deserves careful consideration when creating new daily rhythms after work.

Ask yourself:

What are three things I enjoy most in my daily life?

Friendships? Social circles? Exercise? Travel? Hobbies? Quiet moments?

Your answer will help shape your retirement experience.

If you are highly social, have you made plans for maintaining friendships after leaving the workplace? Many people find that work relationships naturally fade over time.

If you enjoy traveling, have you budgeted for it? Will you travel alone, with a partner, or with friends?

How you choose to spend your days will shape your sense of joy, peace, and fulfillment.

Consider creating a list of 20 things that bring you joy.

Keep it close before and after retirement.

It can serve as a daily reminder of what matters most.

Question #4: Have You Made a Bucket List? If So, Is It Realistic?

Do you have things you have dreamed of doing in retirement?

Take a few minutes and write down three things you hope to accomplish in your first year.

Then ask yourself:

• Have I budgeted for these activities?

• Do I have the health to enjoy them fully?

Dreams can be an essential part of a fulfilling retirement, but timing matters.

Some experiences are best enjoyed when your energy and health are at their strongest.

My husband and I created one-year, three-year, and five-year goals based on one significant factor: health.

As the years pass, energy levels naturally shift.

Planning this way helps ensure that dreams are not only imagined, but actually lived.

Small goals and steady planning can lead to some of the most meaningful experiences of your life.

Subscribe now

Question #5: How Open Are You to Change?

I’m here to say it plainly:

Everything will change once you retire.

And yes, I mean everything.

Once you are no longer bound by the rhythms of daily work, life takes on an entirely different shape.

Time stretches. Decisions shift. Identity begins to reorganize.

Sometimes this feels like freedom.

Other times, it can bring uncertainty or discomfort as you adjust to the unknown.

It’s important to give yourself three essential things:

• Time
• Patience
• Presence

Retirement is not learned in a moment.

It takes time to feel at ease in this new way of living.

Like many people, I began working in my teens and continued for more than four decades.

That is a long time to shape your daily rhythms and often define yourself through work.

It takes time to redefine who you are outside of it.

I’ve read that it can take months, even years, to adjust to retirement fully.

Whatever the timeline, the transition deserves patience and care.

To ease the shift:

1. Begin small daily rituals that nourish you
   such as walking, being in nature, or enjoying a hobby

2. Spend time journaling about your experience
   What feels good? What feels challenging?

3. Try something new that interests you
   Creating something new can refresh your sense of identity

Most importantly, allow yourself to feel everything that comes with change.

You have made a major life transition, and it deserves compassion.

Here is a free Retirement Readiness Assessment to further support your decision-making:
FREE Retirement Readiness Assessment

Final Thoughts

Retirement is not simply the end of a career.

For many people, it is the beginning of something entirely new.

It offers opportunities to redefine what you value most and decide how you wish to spend your time, energy, and attention.

In the words of Joseph Campbell:
“We must be willing to let go of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”

How you choose to live each stage of your life is your decision and yours alone.

I would love to know which of these five questions resonates most deeply with you.

May your journey unfold with grace and beauty every step of the way.

With much love and gratitude,
Lis 💖

__________________

Recently published

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

Savor Life Studio ~ Create, Connect, and Grow in Peace
is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts
and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribe now

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

Subscribe now

Have you ever poured your heart into a Substack post, hit “publish,” and wondered if anyone even saw it?

You are not alone and it is not your writing. Substack does not reward posting alone. It rewards connection: real people reading your words, real engagement, real visibility.

That is exactly why I created Spotlight Circle.

A small, intentional group of creators supporting each other each week can transform how your work is seen:

✨ Your posts will be read
✨ Your voice will be heard
✨ You will never wonder if your work is being seen again

Plus, as a member, you will receive exclusive bonuses:

🎁 Weekly Notes Boosts to help your posts gain visibility
🎁 Regular connection in a small, supportive cohort
🎁 Spotlight opportunities to share your work and expand your reach
🎁 Membership bonus: Receive my 45-page Substack Success Blueprint ebook ($12.99 value) — included for all members!
🎁 Special Early-Bird Bonus: The first 10 members also get my Savoring Substack: What Matters Most ~ Celebrating 29 Inspiring Voices ebook ($12.99 value)
🎁 Exclusive freebies focused on creative growth, community, and gratitude

All of this for just $5 per month—less than the cost of a latte and a small step to get your work truly seen and celebrated. 😊

The first circle begins Tuesday, April 7.

If this resonates, I would love for you join Spotlight Circle.

💖 → Join Spotlight Circle

Wishing you countless moments of being seen, heard, and celebrated today.

With much love and gratitude,
Lis

________________________

Recently published

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 60

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

________________________

Savor Life Studio ~ Create, Connect, and Grow in Peace
is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts
and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribe now

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

Have you ever poured your heart into a Substack post only to feel like no one noticed?

You spend hours carefully crafting your words, sharing your story, and hoping your message will resonate. And sometimes, it feels like your work quietly disappears into the void.

You are not alone. Many creators experience this. They write, publish, and wait for connection that doesn’t always come.

Throughout my first year on Substack, one question kept returning:
How can more creative works and voices be lifted and seen within a community?

What if there were a way to move beyond the silence, connect with other creators, and have your work genuinely seen, heard, and celebrated?

Why this matters

As creators, we all want to feel that our work matters, that our voices are reaching someone, and that our efforts are not going unnoticed. Yet so often, our posts get lost beneath good intentions and overflowing inboxes.

After a full year on Substack, one truth has stayed with me: we do not just need more content. We need more connection. When we grow together, overwhelm takes a back seat to connection and collaboration.

Introducing Spotlight Circle

A small, intentional, paid community designed to help your work be seen, shared, and supported consistently.

How it works

• Every week, you’ll join a small cohort of 10 creators
• You’ll read and comment on just 3 posts—your only commitment
• By supporting one another, creators naturally expand their reach and grow their audiences together

What you receive

• Weekly spotlight opportunities to share your work and expand your reach
• Weekly Notes Boosts to help your posts gain visibility and engagement
• Your work noticed and celebrated by fellow creators each week
• A supportive, uplifting creative community where members inspire and lift each other up
• Simple tools and guidance to help you share, grow, and attract meaningful engagement
• Exclusive freebies focused on gratitude, mindfulness, and inspiration
• A welcoming, collaborative space to connect, flourish, and grow organically

A special bonus

You will also receive my 45-page Substack Success Blueprint Ebook, a $12.99 value, included with your membership.

Why join now

Spotlight Circle is designed to foster connection, quality, and real engagement. It’s about your work being seen, supported, and celebrated.

When we begin

The first Spotlight Circle will commence on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026. I would love for you to be part of it.

Special Early-Bird Bonus

The first 10 creators to upgrade to a paid membership will receive my exclusive ebook: Savoring Substack: Celebrating 29 Inspiring Voices—a collection to uplift, inspire, and fuel your creative journey.

This is my way of saying thank you for joining early and helping the Spotlight Circle community thrive.

How to join

If you have been wanting more eyes on your work, deeper connection, and a way to grow alongside other creators, this is for you.

Join for only $5/month — less than a latte, and your work gets seen! 😊

Click here to join Spotlight Circle

Let’s lift each other up

Together, we can create a space where every voice is seen, heard, and celebrated. I could not be more excited to watch the Spotlight Circle grow and see your creativity thrive.

With much love and gratitude,
Lis 💖

________________________

Recently published

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 60

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

Your Spotlight Circle Welcome Gift

Join Spotlight Circle, my intentional paid community for creators, and receive my exclusive Substack Success Blueprint.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:
• Establish a daily routine for succesTire
• Define what success means to you
• Choose content themes
• Outline goals and aspirations
• Identify your unique strengths

This ebook complements your membership, helping you grow your audience and share your work with a supportive circle of fellow creators.

________________________

Savor Life Studio ~ Create, Connect, and Grow in Peace
is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts
and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribe now

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

________________________

Savor Life Studio Group ~ Pause, Reflect, Enjoy

✨ Looking for a space to pause, share, and celebrate the little joys in life? ✨

I’ve just reopened my Facebook group, now with 60 members! Savor Life Studio is a friendly, supportive space to share the little things that bring gratitude, like music, art, pets, nature, cooking, and photographs or quotes.

I would love to have you join us, connect with others, explore gentle mindfulness tools, and enjoy meaningful conversations.

Lis 💖

Join → Savor Life Studio

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

Subscribe now

The night before I leave on vacation plays out like a scene in the movie Groundhog Day.

The same question swirls around in my brain, and a small panic settles in the pit of my stomach.

What if something happens to us and we don’t return from vacation?

And then all the other turbo-charged thoughts arrive in full armor, clamoring for one-on-one time with my overwhelmed amygdala, while the same incessant thought pounds a syncopated rhythm into my brain.

Not one relative or close friend knows where we keep the following information:

• Passwords

• Insurance policies

• Mortgage and property information

Not to mention:

• Credit card info

• Bank account info

• Trust documents

• Important contacts

And I’m quick to remind myself that no one even knows the password to my friendly iMac, nor how to get into the house if they need to.

These repetitive thoughts are a recent phenomenon. A few short years ago (seven, to be exact), I would breeze out of town and rarely give one tiny thought to any of the above concerns.

Not. One. Thought.

As with most things in life, we don’t see monumental change on the horizon. It often arrives without thunderous applause and leaves us quaking within the folds of grief, doubt, sadness, despair, and a myriad of other unwelcome emotions.

Well, that was my experience one early September afternoon, when I received the shocking news that my eldest brother had passed suddenly. Within the first few moments of hearing this news, I began to wonder if I would ever be able to catch my breath again in this lifetime.

What Loss and Grief Dialed High Taught Me

Losing my brother was the beginning of a lengthy journey through grief and loss. Four more elders passed within the following six years, each one etching a permanent piece within my stained-glass tapestry of grief.

And what did I learn?

Grief arrives in an infinite number of forms and carries its own weight and personality.

It can feel like 10,000 pounds pressing down on your chest, or it can simply render you helpless, bedridden, and completely exhausted.

And these are only two of the many ways it may show up in real time, demanding your full attention.

No matter how it arrives, no one escapes the loss of a loved one and the feelings it deposits in its wake, which often include:

Sadness dialed high

Fog-ridden hours, or days, or months

Frustration

Anger

Exhaustion

Inability to cope

When you are in the throes of intense grief, you do not have the bandwidth to deal with wonderings and worries around where Mom placed her important documents, or how to locate Dad’s bank accounts.

I wish to repeat that statement. You do not have the bandwidth.

When I looked back upon these stressful days of loss within my own life, two repetitive themes rose to the top:

1. Do not burden your loved ones with the worry of how best to honor your end-of-life wishes.

2. Give your loved ones the information they need, in the easiest format possible.

One of the kindest gifts you can leave behind for loved ones is the clarity of knowing how to honor your wishes, without wading through landfills of stress and worry.

Subscribe now

A Gift for When I’m Gone

That is why I created something simple… something gentle… something that could truly help.

The call to create a quick, easy format for sharing important documents and end-of-life wishes became a quiet but steady pull I could not ignore.

I was not interested in creating a complicated 50+ page document that would most likely end up at the very bottom of someone’s “To Do When I’m Completely Bored” pile of excess paperwork.

Instead, I wondered…

Can I create a document that someone can complete in one afternoon?

Bingo. That felt 110% helpful and could bring immense relief to both the organizer and the people who would share the document.

Two wins in one.

And so began the creation of A Gift for When I’m Gone.

This digital download can be completed in one quiet afternoon and may become one of the most thoughtful gifts you leave behind.

Not only did I have wonderful fun creating these documents, but they also gently erased the incessant voices of worry every time I head out the door on vacation.

A Gift for When I’m Gone includes the following pages:

1. How to Complete this Kit in One Afternoon

2. Important People to Contact

3. Important Accounts (bank, insurance, retirement)

4. Passwords and Digital Accounts

5. Important Document Locations

• Will

• Insurance papers

• Property deeds

• Birth certificates

• Safe deposit box

• Password Manager location

6. Your End-of-Life Wishes

• Memorial or Celebration of Life

• Music or readings you love

• Burial or cremation

• Anything important you wish to be remembered

7. Notes for the People You Love (this is my most treasured section)

8. Notes & Reflections

Four Bonus Pages

• Where to Find This Guide

• A Few Final Thoughts

• A Final Note of Love

• Blank-lined page

The Greatest Gift You Can Leave Behind

When we are breezing through life’s daily rhythms, it’s challenging to stop, pause, and think about what life will be like for our loved ones when we depart this earthly realm.

I am no expert on grief, but I have experienced firsthand the stress, chaos, frustration, and confusion borne out of not knowing or understanding a loved one’s final wishes.

Grief and loss are universal, and we all can ease our loved ones’ pain once we have departed this earthly realm by gifting them an organized framework from which to navigate the days, weeks, and months that follow.

If this touches your heart, you’re warmly invited to download A Gift for When I’m Gone. The price has been kept intentionally gentle so that anyone who wishes to benefit from it can do so easily.

CLICK HERE → A Gift for When I’m Gone $14.99

Bonus Included with Every Purchase

As a small token of gratitude, I’ve also included Savor the Moment: A Simple Guide to Mindful Living with your purchase. It’s a gentle companion to this guide, created to bring more presence and calm into your daily life.

If we take the time to wrap our end-of-life wishes and personal information in calm, clear terms, we can ease our loved ones’ hearts while also bringing lasting peace to our own.

When our final act is one of love, kindness, and care, I can think of no better way to honor those who hold a sacred and cherished place within our hearts.

If you feel called to share this with someone who may benefit, please feel free to pass it along or restack.

Questions

• Have you ever had to help organize someone’s affairs after they passed?

• What was the most difficult part?

Steady on, and may you be the light that ignites countless flames soaring toward their highest and most profound destiny.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖💖💖

________________________

Recently published

A five-month Substack conversation and the moment trust was lost

This Connection Seemed Real Until It Wasn’t

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 60

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

Savor Life Studio ~ Create, Connect, and Grow in Peace
is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts
and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribe now

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

________________________

Savor Life Studio Group ~ Pause, Reflect, Enjoy

✨ Looking for a space to pause, share, and celebrate the little joys in life? ✨

I’ve just reopened my Facebook group, now with 60 members! Savor Life Studio is a friendly, supportive space to share the little things that bring gratitude, like music, art, pets, nature, cooking, and photographs or quotes.

I would love to have you join us, connect with others, explore gentle mindfulness tools, and enjoy meaningful conversations.

Lis 💖

Join → Savor Life Studio

________________________

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

Subscribe now

It all began with such innocence. A quiet direct message filled with gracious light, which I promptly ignored. My general rule within cyber security is to blissfully ignore private direct messages from unknown senders.

And so I did. Ignore. Over the course of several days (perhaps weeks) three more kind, heart-filled direct messages landed in my inbox. And eventually the hook landed, I swallowed the bait, and the dance was on.

The Long Game ~ Patience and Empathy Lead the Way

Over the next five months (Yes, five!), a gentle, interesting, and heartwarming conversation ensued with Substacker X.

Questions were intermingled with good wishes, and over time, I learned:

• X worked in the medical field

• Has a relative with a very serious health condition

• Is trying hard to find more peace within work/life balance

And on and on…

Every step of the way, there were thin, tender strands of doubt watching from afar, begging to be fed and nurtured along the way.

Is he really who he says he is?

How come he rarely talks about himself?

Why does he never talk about his profession?

The correspondence lit up with mountains of grace and soul-filling wishes. Substack “Likes” were handed out like Halloween candy, and the bond was secured.

When Doubt Comes Knocking

Somewhere along the way, doubts crept into the cracks of our correspondence, and I went seeking answers.

I crossed over to Facebook and discovered that X was using his last name as his first name, and he was cross-posting the very same messages on both platforms. Not unusual, but it let me know I had found the same person.

On both Facebook and Substack, there were no photographs of X, only restacked photos of art, flowers, and the occasional small nod to something medical.

It all seemed legitimate, but something was missing. Actually, everything was missing.

*No personal photos
*No real-life experiences
*Nothing that screamed, this is who I am!

When AI Sneaks in the Back Door

I began to notice that X’s messages sounded quite a bit like my voice. With over three decades in the literary realm, I noticed his word patterns were much like my own.

Similar phrasing
No mistakes within his messages, ever!
Always rephrasing and parroting back with deep and soul-filling empathy.

I could almost feel his fingers typing out the prompt to ChatGPT:

“Respond to the following message (copy and pasted my words) with empathy, compassion, and grace, and add in that I enjoy piano, need more time for rest, and hope to work less over the next couple of months.”

And then hitting “Send.”

What makes this scenario so frightening is that technological advances have amplified and enabled the hack.

Now, it is easier than ever to impersonate, imitate, and emulate our fellow human creators.

Subscribe now

Here’s What You Need to Know

We have entered a new era in which time is no longer of the essence. This is not like the days of yore when someone would receive an urgent phone call asking for cash to bail out a distant relative.

This scam arrives in soft, gentle hues, walking along a sandy shore, with patience dialed high.

No rush
No fury
No fire

Just simple, grace-filled moments of peace, light, and love carried on wings of tender compassion, in the form of caring words and sentences. And then one day, it arrives, and your entire being freezes.

When the Big Ask FINALLY Arrives

In my most recent correspondence, I had mentioned to X that I would be leaving town to meet with my dear friend.

When his message arrived, and my eyes scanned his mammoth-sized betrayal, my entire being tensed, and dread and disappointment seeped into every crevice.

I was in my studio loft and called out to my husband:

“How disappointing! There goes a Substack relationship down the tubes.”

X told me there was something he needed to ask, but didn’t feel entirely comfortable doing so, along with the following information:

*Finances were stretched thin
*Hoping I might be able to offer a bit of support
*No expectations or pressure

And there it was. X’s words, in black-and-white print, sliding off the page and into my heart, carrying enormous doses of empathy and compassion.

Yet, the only thing pulsating through my overwhelmed brain was the words:

Misled
Misguided
Misaligned
Misunderstanding
and ultimately, MISTRUST.

I kept thinking to myself, “WHO DOES THAT?”

Inner Turmoil, and Listening to Gentle Intuition

Every ounce of my being told me his gentle ask for funds was not okay, today, tomorrow, ever. And so, I gave myself a time-out to think about next steps.

When you are a person who shares light and love with the world and believes in the goodness within every single human being, a situation such as this requires careful consideration.

When Clarity Comes Knocking

Once settled into my hotel room, it became clear that I had one of three options:

1. Explain my feelings of discomfort and disappointment to X, and continue corresponding.

2. Explain my feelings of discomfort and disappointment to X, and say, “Farewell.”

3. Block X forever and cut off all communication.

In recent years, I found myself in situations where I felt compelled to explain myself to loved ones when I was not behaving in ways they found acceptable.

These situations led me down a long, harrowing path that eventually brought clarity, freedom, and light in giant doses to my life. I learned the following:

1. I never have to explain myself to anyone, unless I choose to do so.

2. When someone shows you their true selves, believe every action and word.

3. Without trust, there is no relationship.

And so, it became clear that X was no longer going to be a part of my Substack experience, or my life, and I blocked him that very evening.

In one click of a key, five months of communication was gone, severed and spiraling into the dark cyberspace abyss of nothingness and no return.

Subscribe now

Why Tell the Story

I share this story with you in the most sincere hope that you never, ever find yourself in a similar situation, and if you do, you will see it for what it is before it ever takes flight within your heart.

I’ve spent decades navigating life behind a computer screen, and I’m very comfortable within the technological realm. Yet, this knowledge did not keep me from getting my heartstrings pulled, tangled, and eventually spiraling into a terminal free fall.

As for X, I wish him the very best in life. Most importantly, I hope he finds new and healthier ways to relate to humans and learns that transactional relationships often lack deep emotional intimacy and do not align mind, body, and spirit in ways that are soul-filling and life-sustaining.

Top Security Reminders for Substack Users

Substack often feels like stepping into a garden of decadence, steeped with light, love, knowledge, and beauty dialed high.

I have been reminded:

• Keep a cautious eye toward the unknown
  Pay attention to anything that feels off or inconsistent.

• Protect your inbox and trust your instincts
  Avoid engaging immediately with unsolicited messages.

• Verify identities across platforms
  Check profiles and content for consistency across different sites.

• Be wary of financial or personal requests
  Never send money or sensitive information to someone you only know online.

I will never know if X’s words were all true, partially true, or completely fabricated. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter.

For I will always remember how his final missive made me feel, and that, in the end, carried more weight than 10,000 shared pathways.

Steady on, and may you be the light that ignites countless flames soaring toward their highest and most profound destiny.

With much love and gratitude,

Lis 💖💖💖

Photo Credits:
Cover Image: Daniel Stanitzki ~ Unsplash

________________________

Recently published

A quick 5-minute routine to start your morning with gratitude and self-care:
Transform Your Day in 5 Minutes: The 3-3-3 Morning Routine

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Reflection

Personal reflections on life, creativity, and living slowly and meaningfully

Fridays – Creator Spotlight

Featuring inspiring voices and creative work across Substack

Sundays – Community Table

Free resources, creative gifts, and shared inspiration

________________________

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

Subscribe now

________________________

Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?

Come take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

It was pure joy joining John Rinaldo on Stories, Soul Work & Substack.

I would be delighted if you gave it a listen.

Much love and gratitude,
Lis 💖💖💖

Subscribe now

The alarm rings. My feet touch the ground. A hundred thoughts swirl through my mind, and suddenly the day is underway. Schedules, meetings, emails, and an endless stream of responsibilities pull for my attention.

Sound familiar?

For years I lived on the treadmill of constant activity and exhaustion, without realizing something incredibly simple: every single action we take each day is a choice.

• What if intention became the foundation of our actions?

• What if organization offered the framework for our days?

• What if routines gently guided the rhythm of daily life?

The most powerful transformations rarely come from hours of planning. They come from small, intentional actions practiced consistently. Sometimes those actions take only five minutes.

Why Five Minutes Matters

A simple five-minute routine can bring remarkable balance, peace, and clarity into your life. Best of all, it can take place within the first few moments of your morning.

· No stress

· No complicated planning

· No overwhelm

Just five quiet minutes of thoughtful reflection. When we intentionally reflect upon gratitude, goals, and self-care, we gently remind ourselves what deserves our attention throughout the day.

Daily action.
Small steps.
Big change.

Introducing the 3-3-3 Morning Routine

Rather than jumping out of bed at the sound of the alarm, I now begin my morning with slow, intentional breathing. I use a simple box breathing technique that follows a sixteen-second rhythm:

Box Breathing Technique

Inhale for four seconds
Hold for four seconds
Exhale for four seconds
Hold for four seconds

After a minute or two of box breathing, I move into the 3-3-3 Morning Routine, which helps guide my intentions for the day. It’s simple, calming, and surprisingly powerful.

Step 1 – Gratitude (3 Things)

Think of three people, places, or experiences that fill your heart with gratitude. Gratitude teaches us to slow down and savor life’s moments. If you’d like to dive deeper into the health and happiness benefits of gratitude, you can read my article Daily Gratitude: 7 Simple Habits That Will Change Your Life.

Some examples of where to place your focus:

• Family members or close friends

• A walk on the beach or a favorite forest trail

• A cherished memory from a vacation or meaningful outing

• A simple act of kindness you witnessed

• A favorite book, meal, or song

Visualize these people or moments and allow yourself to feel appreciation for them. Let your heart expand with light and love.

Step 2 – Daily Goals (3 Things)

Ask yourself: what are the three most important things I want to accomplish today? Keep your goals realistic and achievable. Small wins create momentum and reinforce feelings of progress.

Some examples of daily goals:

• Finish outlining a writing project

• Go grocery shopping and drop off recycling

• Catch up on correspondence

• Prepare for a meeting or creative project

• Organize one area of your home or workspace

Focus on what will keep your day moving forward while creating a sense of accomplishment.

Step 3 – Daily Self-Care (Mind, Body, Spirit)

Dedicate attention to your mind, body, and spirit. These small acts often become the most meaningful part of the practice because they shape how you feel all day.

Some ideas:
Mind

· Read an article or a few pages of a book

· Memorize the lyrics to a new song

Body

· Take a walk or practice yoga for thirty minutes

· Stretch and move intentionally

Spirit

· Spend twenty minutes journaling

· Play an instrument or take photos of nature

Select one action or intention for your mind, body, and spirit.

Even these small moments of self-care ripple into your entire day, fostering calm, clarity, and inspiration.

Subscribe now

Quick Recap of a 5-Minute Morning Routine

Gratitude – 3 Things

1. Our children

2. Afternoon visit with a dear friend

3. A delicious meal prepared by my husband

Daily Goals – 3 Things

1. Finish outlining my pillar post

2. Go grocery shopping and drop off recycling

3. Catch up on correspondence

Self-Care – Mind, Body, Spirit

1. Mind – Memorize lyrics to a new song

2. Body – Take a long walk on the beach

3. Spirit – Spend twenty minutes journaling

Prefer to Write it Down?

If you enjoy tracking your progress visually, I’ve created a 5-Minute Morning Routine PDF to help you gently track your daily habits.

Click here to receive your: 5-Minute Morning Routine PDF

Check-Ins Throughout the Day

A quick one-minute check-in at lunch helps keep your intentions fresh. In the evening, reflect on these questions:

• What am I grateful for right now?

• Is there anything I want to adjust for tomorrow?

• What were three wins from today?

Even the smallest victories deserve recognition.

Five Minutes Can Truly Change Your Life

As you settle into the evening, remind yourself of what you accomplished today. Even small steps matter. Breathe into the knowing that tomorrow is another opportunity to lead with intention, organization, and thoughtful routines.

With practice and consistency, life becomes more intentional, peaceful, and aligned with what matters most.

Five minutes truly can change a life. Why not let it be yours?

With love and gratitude,
Lis 💖💖💖

If you decide to try the 3-3-3 morning routine, I would love to hear how it works for you. Your experience might inspire someone else to begin their own five-minute transformation.

___________________________

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 59 (soon to be 60)

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

PS — This post is public, so please feel free to restack and share with others. Thank you! 💖

Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes — meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

(Cover Photo Credit: Stefan Ionita ~ Canva)

Subscribe now

Why Gratitude Changes Everything

Gratitude teaches us to slow down and savor life’s moments. With simple daily practices, it offers extraordinary health benefits for your mind, body, and spirit.

Practicing gratitude can strengthen relationships, boost well-being, and improve physical health.

After years of navigating challenging circumstances, I discovered that daily gratitude transforms ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Let’s explore seven habits you can start today.

Robert A. Emmons is a proponent of gratitude research. In his article, Why Gratitude Is Good, he discusses the two core components of gratitude.

First, it’s an affirmation of goodness. We affirm that there are good things in the world, gifts and benefits we’ve received. The second part of gratitude is figuring out where that goodness comes from. We recognize the sources of this goodness as being outside of ourselves.

He also outlines the benefits of consistent gratitude. For deeper insights into physical, psychological, and spiritual health benefits, see Imed Bouchrika, Ph.D., 35 Scientific Benefits of Gratitude: Mental Health Research Findings for 2026.

Benefits of Daily Gratitude

(From Robert Emmons Why Gratitude is Good)

Physical
• Strengthens immune systems
• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduces focus on aches and pains
• Improves sleep patterns

Psychological
• Enhances positive emotions
• Increases alertness and energy
• Brings more joy and pleasure into daily life
• Boosts happiness and optimism

Social
• Encourages compassion and generosity
• Increases forgiveness
• Reduces feelings of isolation
• Promotes greater social engagement

Before I discovered simple habits of incorporating daily gratitude into my life, I shuffled past many beautiful moments.

Life is a collection of moments, and we frequently find the most happiness, connection, and purpose within these tiny ordinary spaces of time.

Let’s dive in!

1. Start Your Day with a Morning Gratitude Routine

Starting your morning with gratitude can shift your entire day. Even a few quiet minutes can make a big difference. When you begin your day with the key elements listed below, peace, calm, and clarity often arrive on gifted wings of grace:

Intention
Organization
Routines

Choose 1–3 of the ideas listed below to begin your day, then experiment to find the perfect combination. Small moments can grow into hours of joy.

Morning Gratitude Ideas
• List three people, places, or experiences that bring you joy and give thanks for them
• Identify three things you can do today to bring positivity into your life
• Recall one peaceful moment from yesterday and give thanks for it
• Savor your morning coffee or tea fully, breathing in peace and exhaling love
• Reflect on a close friend and their three best qualities
• Bring your attention to the present with deep breathing
• Set one long-term health or well-being goal
• Commit to one small goal for a productive, positive day
• Acknowledge one positive habit you already do for your health
• Add one new habit to enhance your daily routine, such as meditation, walking, reading, journaling, getting outdoors, or staying hydrated

Short on time? Try this Five-Minute Morning Routine

For a five-minute gratitude and self-care routine, click the link to read: Transform Your Day in 5 Minutes: The 3-3-3 Morning Routine

Subscribe now

2. Start a Daily Gratitude Journal

Spend 5 to 10 minutes daily writing in your gratitude journal. Short lists, reflections, and writing prompts make it easy to track the beauty in your life.

Writing down three things per day creates a collection of over 90 savored moments in a month.

Click the link below to receive your FREE 7-Day Relaxation Journal

7-Day Mindful Moments Relaxation Journal (PDF)

3. Set Healthy Life-Work Boundaries

Protect your energy and focus by setting clear boundaries.

• Decide each morning how many hours you will dedicate to work and stick to it

• Say yes only to activities that spark joy or purpose

• Disconnect from emails and notifications after work

• Practice an evening routine that restores your mind and body

• Celebrate small successes for adopting these habits

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Nature nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Even 30 minutes outside can lift your mood, reduce stress, and bring clarity.

Walk, hike, sit by the water, or simply listen to birdsong. Your surroundings refresh your perspective and foster gratitude naturally.

5. Create a Daily List of Priorities

Organize your day with intention using the “Three For Three” method.

3 Must Accomplish
• Grocery shopping
• Finish bills
• Pick up a thank you card

3 Gratitude/Peace Moments
• Dinner with loved ones
• Walk to the meditation bench
• Play music or write

This simple list balances productivity with mindful enjoyment, helping you feel accomplished while savoring life’s small pleasures.

6. Share Gratitude with Others

Happiest are those who spread joy to others. Share your gratitude in tangible ways.

• Smile often
• Write thank-you notes
• Call a friend for a meaningful chat
• Compliment someone on what you admire
• Volunteer your time or skills
• Open doors, give hugs, or share a meal

Acts of giving and recognition deepen your own gratitude while uplifting others.

7. Commit to a Daily Gratitude Routine

Commit to a daily practice that keeps gratitude at the center of your life.

• Commit to make gratitude a daily intention
• Write and record reflections each day, even five minutes counts
• Feel gratitude and embrace moments of joy
• Schedule reflection times that work for you, morning or evening
• Savor each moment and say “I am grateful” throughout the day
• Partner with someone to share thoughts and reflections
• Keep going, knowing gratitude grows with consistency and attention

Gratitude lays the foundation for living a life you love and savoring beautiful moments. The last and most important habit in making this a reality is committing yourself to a daily gratitude routine.

For further inspiration, you may wish to read the steps outlined in the article from Tiny Buddha titled, How to Start a Gratitude Practice and Change Your Life by Helen Russell.

Closing Thoughts
Daily gratitude transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Start small, pick a habit or two, and watch your life shift. Over time, you’ll notice a deep and satisfying peace that accompanies each day.

May your days be filled with countless beautiful and savored moments.

With love and gratitude,
Lis 💖💖💖

If you decide to try any of these daily gratitude habits, I would love to hear how they work for you. Your experience might inspire someone else to begin their own transformation.

References
• Emmons, R. (2010). Why gratitude is good. Greater Good Science Center
• Bouchrika, I. (2023). 35 Scientific Benefits of Gratitude. Research.com
• Russell, H. How to Start a Gratitude Practice and Change Your Life. Tiny Buddha
Photo Credits:
Cover Image: Mayur Gala ~ Unsplash
All other photos: Lis at Savor Life Studio

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 59 (soon to be 60)

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

PS — This post is public, so please feel free to restack and share with others. Thank you! 💖

Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes — meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

What happens when 11-year-olds calculate their own screen time?

Children between the ages of ________ should be allowed to use technology for no more than _____ hours each day to support healthy, active, and balanced lives.

This was the prompt I posed every year to my 6th graders, generally 11 to 12 years old, during our unit on technology use and digital balance.

The responses were comical, staggering, sobering, and sometimes flat-out shocking.

How Much Screen Time Are Children Really Consuming?

Most students estimated between 25 and 50 hours per week of screen time. A few proudly claimed 70 to 90 hours in a single week.

Seventy to ninety hours!

I had to do the math to see if that was even possible:

• Sleep: 56 hours

• School: 35 hours

• Total: 91 hours

• Remaining time for family, friendships, hobbies, activities, meals, homework, and technology: 77 hours

Yes, 70–90 hours of tech time in a week is possible, especially if a youngster is not getting their required daily amount of sleep.

The Socratic Seminar

After reflection, research, and countless discussions, the unit culminated in a Socratic Seminar, loosely based on the Socratic method. Students focus on rigorous, question-based dialogue to uncover truth while analyzing assumptions and contradictions.

This was always the most joyous part of the unit. I was handed the gift of observing rather than participating.

Leaders were appointed, generally students looking for extra points. Half of my class would sit in the outer circle and observe the inner circle discussion, which covered:

• Recommended daily tech hours for 11–12-year-olds

• Benefits of technology use

• Downfalls of technology use

• Health concerns

• Should parents set limits on technology use?

Technology was defined as:

• Video games

• YouTube

• Any social media platform

• Texting

• Movies

Not included:

• Homework requiring electronic devices

• Music streaming

• Digital art and animation

• Music creation and production

Once the seminar began, discussions were interesting, revealing, and startling.

Parents and Technology Use: What Is Appropriate?

One seminar will stay with me forever. A preteen said:

“Well, what about my parents? They are on their phones all the time and hardly ever pay attention to me.”

Whoa. That comment opened the floodgates. I became the quiet observer of a full-on therapy session, where preteens shared the pain of feeling ignored due to parental engagement with technology.

This session highlighted that humans of all ages struggle to find balance between tech use and the daily rhythms of family, school, and work.

Subscribe now

Are Children Addicted to Technology?

I have witnessed children who seemed unable to remain present for a full 50-minute class period, frequently asking to step out to use the restroom and returning after checking their phones or playing games.

Addiction is defined as: being addicted to a particular substance, thing, or activity.

I am not a doctor, but I have seen children experience negative emotional impacts when technology is removed from their routines.

From the Cleveland Clinic:

“Video game addiction, also called internet gaming disorder, is characterized by severely reduced control over gaming habits, resulting in negative impacts on daily functioning… While millions of people play video games, only a small percentage develop video game addiction.”

For more insight, The Vigilant Fox in the post titled, The Unsettling Brain Impact of Screen Time in Kids explains:

• White matter acts as the brain’s wiring system, helping communication between regions.

• Deficits in myelin production early in life = deficits in neural connectivity.

• More screen time = greater loss of white matter.

• Screens also rewire dopamine in developing brains, making moderation essential.

• Restoration, not stimulation, is the way out.

Why Screen Time and Digital Balance Matter for Families

Technology is here to stay. Rather than resist, we must find healthy ways to create balance for ourselves and children.

Children are always watching and learning from adults. How we engage with technology matters.

Ask yourself:

• How many hours do I spend using technology each day or week?

• Multiply your weekly average by 52 weeks—what is the total for the year?

Example: 5 hours a day = 1,820 hours a year. Whoa!

• Do I spend equal time socializing, dreaming, creating as I do with technology?

• If I am around children, do they have my full focus, or am I distracted?

Tiny shifts can lead to big gains.

Taking Positive Steps

With 34 years of experience in education and decades of parenting, here are my humble suggestions for creating a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

If you are still navigating tech use with your children, do not be fearful of setting limits. This may be one of the biggest parenting challenges you face, and my entire heart goes out to every single parent navigating this realm.

Parents, be united. Be brave. Be fearless.

When co-parenting, it is extremely helpful if both parents are on the same page about the role technology will play in the family. Establish mutually agreed-upon guidelines and patterns within your household.

One thing is certain when it comes to technology use: children want it. You guide it. And the struggle is real.

My best advice: Sit down with your children and have a candid, age-appropriate discussion about the benefits and downfalls of tech use. Then, with light and love, create and share your guidelines. Most importantly, stick to them.

I have seen countless children pull out the bargaining chip to regain that blissful tech buzz in their lives.

You must be firm.
You must be steadfast.
You must be consistent.

Subscribe now

Additional Practical Suggestions

• Practice phone-free listening. Intentional attention is one of the greatest gifts you can give.

• No phones during meals. One small change can dramatically improve family interaction.

• Use conversation starter decks for lighthearted discussions during meal time.

• Device-free time in nature builds presence (even if photography is tempting).

Closing Thoughts

If you are over 45, you likely remember a time when we:

Spent most of our free time outside, because that was where childhood unfolded.

Figured things out on our own when problems arose, stretching our resilience in the process.

Ate dinner together most nights, engaged in conversation rather than devices.

Enjoyed sleepovers filled with creativity, connection, and laughter. No notifications. No glowing screens. Just us.

Because technology is here to stay, we must lead by example and give ourselves grace to try, fail, and try again.

One device-free meal. One uninterrupted conversation. One walk without a screen.

Savored moments are the sparks that light our paths. We get to choose the direction, content, and rhythm of our journeys.

And our children are watching.

Wishing you peace, light, and love as you travel forth.
With love and gratitude always,
Lis 💖💖💖

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

Tuesdays – Anchor Post
Personal reflections + life at 59 (soon to be 60)

Fridays – Shout-Outs
Highlighting inspiring Substack voices

Sundays – Freebie Post
Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead

Savor Life Studio ~ Create, Connect, and Grow in Peace
is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts
and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribe now

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say.

☕️ Coffee 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive. Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

PS — This post is public, so please feel free to restack and share with others. Thank you! 💖

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Come take a peek behind the scenes — meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.

Dear beautiful creators,

As I approach the one-year mark post-retirement, a question has quietly bloomed within me:
How can I share my heart, spirit, and gifts in a way that lifts the light within others?

And then, one evening, it arrived gently but clearly: the flowers.
For months, I have wandered through neighborhoods, pausing along trails, noticing petals, sunlight, and small wild wonders, sharing these moments here with reflections and inspiration. And I realized I can share the flowers and sparks of nature with you.

Today, I am delighted to make my complete Floral Notes System available to all subscribers completely free!

• 30 original nature-inspired Note templates

• Two layout options per template, giving you 60 ready-to-use Notes

Simply add your words, reflections, quotes, poetry, or encouragement and publish

Grab your copy here: Floral Note Templates

Why this matters:

• A gentle time-saver – Prepare your Notes in one sitting and use them throughout the month

• Consistent beauty – Nature-centered Notes resonate deeply and widely with readers

• Creative inspiration – Start with beauty and let your words unfold without wondering what to post

Original, hand-captured photos

Included are full-access, usage-rights photos from my walks in nature. Use them freely for:

• Notes

• Prints

• Wallpapers

• Affirmation cards

• Other creative projects

Each photograph is a small, personal treasure, captured with intention and love, ready to inspire your creative projects.

Grab your copy here: Floral Note Templates

Create Your Templates in Canva with No Cost, No Stress, Just Your Creativity Flowing

Click Here to Download Your Free Canva Editing Guide

This offering feels like an extension of my daily walks, pausing, noticing, gathering small moments of beauty, and placing them gently into your hands.

May these Notes bring ease, inspiration, and gentle beauty into your creative journey.

With love and gratitude always,
Lis 💖💖💖

Sample Notes

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say, which is saying something, coming from a writer!

☕️ Coffee Love 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support helps keep this creative space alive.

Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

PS This post is public, so please feel free to restack and share with others. Thank you! 💖

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Take a peek behind the scenes and meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.🌿

Click the link to connect with Savor Life Studio

I hope this song brings a few sparks of light and love into your day.

With love and gratitude,

always,

Lis 💖💖💖

(“Company of Friends” by Danny Schmidt)

Subscribe now

If this post resonated, you’re warmly invited to explore more gentle reflections, songs, and offerings at Savor Life Studio.

Subscribe now

Dear Creators, 💖

I’m thrilled to share that a new ebook is almost ready for you: The Heart of Substack: A Practical & Inspiring Guide to Creating with Purpose — completely free!

Through my journey on Substack, I’ve discovered that the most meaning comes from connecting with other creators, building community, and sharing content that brings joy, pleasure, and purpose into the creative process.

I’m sharing this ebook with my subscribers for a limited time as a special thank-you for being part of the Savor Life Studio Community.

Special Offer: Free for all subscribers until November 15th! After that, it will be available for purchase on several platforms.

This ebook shares insights from my experience, designed to help you:

• Establish a daily routine for success

• Define your version of success on Substack

• Choose content themes that align with your interests

• Discover your unique strengths and offerings

It’s filled with reflective writing prompts to help you find clarity, direction, and joy in your creative journey.

Stay tuned — this gentle, practical guide will be available very soon, and I can’t wait for you to explore it and nurture your Substack journey with clarity and inspiration.

Wishing you peace, light, and love on waves of gratitude,
Lis 💖

✨ Something Special

With great joy, I’m thrilled to share Savoring Substack: What Matters Most ebook— 29 heartwarming stories from inspiring creators, now available for just $4.99.

Grab your copy here

Savor Life Studio Weekly Schedule

• Tuesdays – Anchor Post
• Fridays – Shout-Outs (Highlighting inspiring Substack voices)
• Sundays – Freebie Post (Calm & creative gifts for your week ahead)

New subscribers are always welcome here — encouraged and appreciated more than words can say, which is saying something, coming from a writer!

☕️ Coffee Love 💖
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be truly honored if you’d consider buying me a cup of coffee. Your support means the world to me and helps keep this creative space alive.
Wishing you a day full of peace and beautiful moments.

PS — This post is public, so please feel free to restack and share with others. Thank you! 💖

🌿 Want to know more about Savor Life Studio?
Take a peek behind the scenes — meet Lis, explore the mission, and pick up some peaceful freebies to add more calm and clarity to your days.