I was born in Chicago, raised in the Midwest, and studied creative writing and journalism at the University of Iowa. I was quickly immersed in Southern culture when I moved to Birmingham, Alabama, and became a writer and editor for Southern Accents Magazine at Time Warner. The lavish interiors and grand architecture of the region inspired me to study interior design while working as an editor.
Today I am a lifestyle journalist, editor, brand strategist, and communications specialist with more than 25 years of experience managing and producing content for magazines, books, digital, television, and sales/marketing/PR assets. I am honored to put my skills to work creating lifestyle content for Lake Homes Realty and its ever-growing sister brands including Beach-Homes Realty and Mountain Homes Realty.
For lake homeowners, the kitchen is rarely a closed-off, purely utilitarian space. Instead, it functions as a social hub after a day on the water. It is also a prep zone for casual group meals and a visual anchor that …
For lake lovers with homes that function as true retreats, Valentine’s Day dinner is an invitation to slow the pace and cook with intention. These seven recipes suit different lake regions across the U.S. They reflect climate, seasonal rhythms, and …
Winter at the lake has a quieter rhythm. Boats are pulled ashore, docks rest under frost, and kitchens become the true gathering place. On cold days, when the view outside is muted, and meals need to do more than simply …
Sauna culture and winter lakeside life are a natural pairing. The slow, dry heat of a wood- or electric-fired sauna followed by a brisk plunge (or merely an icy view for the less adventurous) sharpens the senses and signals a …
Early mornings—or late mornings—at the lake involve more than just coffee. They offer a moment to relax, replenish, and revel in another day on the water. What better way to start than with breakfast breads that feel both comforting and …
Designing a lake home that endures changing tastes requires more than following trends—it’s about making thoughtful decisions. These decisions should be rooted in comfort, character, and long-term livability. For 2026, the most compelling trends emphasize warmth, craftsmanship, and a sense …
As the year winds down and the air takes on that brisk sense of renewal at your lakeside retreat, New Year’s Eve offers the opportunity to craft a dinner that combines the warmth you crave with a touch of sparkle …
A successful holiday gathering at the lake is easy to spot the next morning. There are cluttered countertops, wine rings on your teak table, wax stalagmites clinging to the tablecloth, a trail of crumbs leading to the deck, and perhaps …
Released in December 2025, Pantone’s Color of the Year 2026 11-4201 Cloud Dancer offers “a whisper of tranquility and peace in a noisy world,” say the color experts at the renowned Pantone Color Institute. Pantone’s Color of the Year …
Snowfall brings a sense of serenity to lake homes across the U.S., but it also introduces environmental challenges. Traditional salt-based deicers and gas-powered snow removal tools can harm nearby waterways—especially around lakes, where runoff quickly enters the ecosystem. Excess sodium …
