A Red Lava
  • Home
  • About
  • Products
    • Notebooks/Journals >
      • 120 Pages 7.5 x 9.25
      • 200 Pages 7.5" 9.25"
      • 6 x 9
    • Gratitude Journals
    • Planners
    • Custom Orders
    • Children's Books
  • Contact
  • Updates

Lined with Love

2/12/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
There’s something about a fresh journal that feels like an invitation. A gentle nudge inward to listen closely to my own heart.

That’s the energy behind this design—my Love Line journal, inspired by Valentine’s Day.

Simple. Bold. Some designs lean street-style—black and white with a pop of red. Others are soft and pink. One features an anatomical heart. Another’s a splashy throwback to '80s pop art. There’s even a bright, joyful cover with Kiwi and Diesel front and centre.

Basically? There’s something for every mood—and every version of you.

These are the first of my 200-page journals—college-ruled, with space for the date on every page. And they’re my favourite size: 7.5" x 9.25". Big enough to hold all your thoughts, still easy to toss in your bag when you're on the go.

And yes, it’s pretty. But it’s also practical—because the right tools can make reflection easier, even on the hard days.

This one was made for the romantics, the reflectors, the ones learning to love themselves better every day.

Custom covers are available, too.

And if you're into fresh starts and pretty paper, head to this page on my site—new covers drop weekly.

0 Comments

Writing My Way Forward

2/5/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
120 Pages in 16 Days: A Quiet Win That Means Everything
​

I wrote 120 pages in the past 16 days. Not just project work—this includes my daily journaling, gratitude practice, affirmations, intentions, and deepening nightly reflections. It's a mix of personal growth and creative output. And honestly? I’m really proud of it.

​This didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of consistent practices shaped by some powerful reads in 2024:

✨ Atomic Habits reminded me that small habits = big results.
✨ The Art of Laziness helped me rethink productivity (less hustle, more intention).
✨ The Mountain Is You cracked open the ways I self-sabotage.
✨ Emotional Intelligence deepened my self-awareness.
✨ The Power of Intention anchored my daily mantras.
✨ The Perfect Story sharpened how I share what matters.
✨ And in 2025, The 10X Rule kicked things up a notch—it’s pushed me to dream (and do) bigger.

This page count isn’t just a number. It’s proof that daily writing, gratitude, and reflection can create real momentum. It’s a reminder to celebrate the quiet wins. The ones that happen when no one’s watching. The ones that change everything.
Here’s to the next 120 pages—and everything they’ll unlock. 

0 Comments

Plan. Reset. Repeat.

1/29/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
​Why a 3-Month Planner Works Better Than a Yearly One
If you’ve ever cracked open a brand new yearly planner with high hopes, only to abandon it by March… you’re not alone. I’ve been there too.
That’s one of the reasons I created the 3-Month Productivity Planner—a simple, focused way to plan your life in more manageable chunks. Here’s why I think three months is the sweet spot:

It’s Long Enough to Make Progress
Three months gives you just the right amount of time to set a meaningful goal and actually make headway. Whether you’re working on a creative project, building a new habit, or organizing your life, 90 days is enough time to see results—without feeling like you’re committing to something forever.

It’s Short Enough to Stay Motivated
A full year can feel overwhelming. Life changes. Priorities shift. A 3-month window keeps things flexible and realistic. It allows you to pivot if something isn’t working, and it gives you that satisfying “fresh start” feeling more often.

It Fits the Rhythm of Real Life
Let’s face it—our energy ebbs and flows with the seasons, the school calendar, and just… life. A quarterly planner naturally aligns with those rhythms. You can plan around holidays, vacations, or busy work seasons without losing momentum.

It’s a Confidence Builder
When you finish a 3-month planner, you feel it. You see the pages filled, the habits tracked, the goals in motion. It’s a reminder that yes, you can do hard things—and that feeling fuels the next round.

Visit the Planner Page to see the full collection. 
0 Comments

Plan. Focus. Achieve.

1/22/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
I’m excited to share my latest product with you—the 3-Month Productivity Planner! This isn’t just another planner. It’s a simple but super-effective tool to help you stay organized, crush your goals, and build habits that actually stick—all while keeping life’s daily chaos in check.

Why Pen and Paper?
In a world full of apps and screens, there’s something magical about putting pen to paper. Writing things down isn’t just nostalgic—it’s a proven way to stay focused, retain information, and actually get things done. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the satisfaction of physically checking off your to-dos.

With this planner, it’s just you, your thoughts, and a clean page to set your intentions for the day. No notifications. No distractions. Just clarity.

What Makes This Planner Different?
The 3-Month Productivity Planner was designed to make your life easier—no overwhelm, just results. Each day has its own full page to help you stay on track:
  • Top Priorities: Zero in on what matters most each day.
  • Daily Schedule: Plan your time from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Calls and Emails: Stay on top of communication.
  • Budget: Track your spending or plan your finances.
  • Tasks/Notes: Organize your to-dos, jot down ideas, or write reminders.
But it doesn’t stop there. The planner also includes:
  • Monthly Goal Setting: Map out four SMART goals every month.
  • Project Planner: Break big ideas into actionable steps.
  • Habit Tracker: Build consistency with the habits that support your growth.
  • Extra Notes Pages: A space for brainstorming, sketching, or anything else.

And here’s the best part: if you have unique needs, I can customize the interior pages just for you.

This planner was thoughtfully designed to help you stay organized, prioritize your time, and actually make progress toward your goals.

Designs for Everyone
​Let’s be real—your planner is something you’re going to look at every day, so it should feel like you. That’s why I’ve created a variety of designs to match different styles and personalities. The first 10 designs are live now, with several more on the way! For a sneak peek at the upcoming designs, check out the Planners Page on my website.

And don’t forget—I can create custom designs just for you, making your planner truly one-of-a-kind.
  • Retro Vibes: Roller skates and funky colours for a playful, throwback feel.
  • For Dog Lovers: Inspired by my love for Frenchies (and my boys, Kiwi and Diesel!), this cover is perfect for anyone who adores pups.
  • Vibrant and Nature-Inspired Designs: Soft, beautiful options for those who love nature.
  • Sunsets & Adventure: Whether you’re into serene sunsets or rugged mountain vibes, there’s a cover for you.
  • Urban-Inspired Portraits: Bold, expressive designs with dynamic characters in colourful cityscapes.
  • Custom Covers: Want something completely unique? I’ve got you covered—literally!

Why 3 Months?
A quarterly planner keeps things simple and focused. You’re not locked into a year-long commitment, so it’s easier to reflect, pivot when needed, and stay motivated. Three months is the perfect amount of time to tackle meaningful goals and build momentum. Because let’s be honest, 12 months can feel overwhelming, but three months? Totally doable.

Ready to Get Started?
The 3-Month Productivity Planner is here to help you take control of your time, set intentional goals, and take charge of your days. Whether you’re a pen-and-paper enthusiast or just ready for a fresh way to get organized, there’s a design here waiting for you.

​I’m so grateful for your support as I bring this project to life—it means the world to me. Thank you for being part of this journey!
​
Which cover is your favourite? Let me know in the comments or message me for custom requests—I’d love to hear what you think!
0 Comments

From SMART to 10X: How I’m Transforming My Goals in 2025

1/16/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Here I was, 14 days into the new year, crushing my goals and feeling pretty good about it. Then someone tells me about The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone. This book has been out since 2011, so why it’s just landing on my radar now is beyond me—but here we are.
The core idea? To achieve extraordinary success, you need to set goals and take actions that are 10 times bigger than you think is necessary.
At first, I was skeptical. I’ve been a SMART goal enthusiast for years—those Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals have kept me on track and delivered results. But as I started reading, I realized this approach could take my goal setting to a whole new level.
So, I decided to try it. I took my already ambitious SMART goals and 10X-ed them. The results? In just two days, I’ve seen stellar progress—and more importantly, I feel ten times the motivation.
Let’s dive into what sets SMART goals and 10X goals apart and how they can work together.

Key Differences Between SMART Goals and 10X Goals
1. Goal Size and Ambition
  • SMART Goals: These focus on what’s realistic and attainable. They help you aim for progress you know you can achieve.
  • 10X Goals: These challenge you to think much, much bigger. They’re about dreaming boldly and setting goals that feel almost out of reach—because even if you fall short, you’ll accomplish more than you thought possible.
2. Effort and Action
  • SMART Goals: They encourage steady, manageable effort—actions that align with your capacity and resources.
  • 10X Goals: They demand massive action. It’s not about working harder for the sake of it; it’s about pushing past your perceived limits and taking consistent, bold steps toward your vision.
3. Mindset
  • SMART Goals: Practical and grounded, these goals keep you focused on incremental progress.
  • 10X Goals: They cultivate a mindset of abundance, urging you to embrace the idea that extraordinary success is possible with the right level of belief and commitment.

How SMART and 10X Goals Work Together
Here’s the beauty of these two approaches: they don’t have to compete. In fact, they complement each other:
  1. Specific and Measurable: Both methods rely on clarity. Whether your goal is to earn an extra $2,000 in monthly income or $1 million in book sales, writing it down and tracking progress is key.
  2. Achievable and Realistic: SMART goals help you stay grounded, but 10X goals challenge you to dream bigger. Combining these approaches lets you stretch your limits while staying focused.
  3. Time-Bound: Deadlines create urgency, whether your goal is short-term or part of a much larger vision.

How My Goals Have Changed
This year, I’ve given myself permission to dream. I’m no longer limiting myself to what feels realistic—I’m writing down what I really want. Why not aim for $1 million in book sales? Sure, it might feel far-fetched, but it’s what I want, so why not put it out there?
The shift from SMART to 10X goals has been a game-changer. As a dreamer by nature, this approach feels like a better fit for me. It encourages me to push harder, think bigger, and take more action. Even if I don’t hit every target, I know I’ll go further than I ever would with smaller, safer goals.
If you’re ready to dream bigger, take massive action, and start building the life you’ve always wanted, now’s the time to start—because next week, I’m launching a daily planner designed to help you do exactly that.

0 Comments

​We’re Back! Crushing Resolutions and Building Real Connections

1/8/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Eight days into the new year, and I don’t know about you, but I’m kinda killing it with my resolutions so far. Anyone else still hanging in there? I wonder though… are people even doing resolutions anymore? Stats say most resolutions don’t stick, so maybe we’re shifting from “New Year, New Me” to something more sustainable—like setting meaningful goals.

I also recently heard about something new: choosing a word of the year. Instead of a list of resolutions, you pick one word to guide your actions and mindset for the year. I gave it some thought, and my word for 2025 is sovereign. In terms of personal growth, it’s about standing in my own power, making choices that align with my values, and living free from other people’s expectations or past limitations. It’s about being free and true to myself at the same time.
​
My main 2025 resolution is all about deeper connections. Not just the “Hey, how are you?” kind, but genuine, real connections—with people already in my life and those I cross paths with. Last year, I joined a book club, and spoiler alert: I loved it. I’m sticking with it again this year because there’s something magical about gathering with people, expanding your world, and talking about great books (and occasionally terrible ones, too).
But this year, I’m taking things up a notch. I joined an online group called the Human Connection Group, led by the super-talented Stuart Knight. And wow, it’s going to be a whole new level of connection. Every month, we’ll be given a task—a question we need to ask people. Not just any question, though. Stuart’s been refining this process for years, so you know these are going to be some amazing conversation starters. Maybe even a little uncomfortable. (Fun, right?)
We had our first meeting this week, and I have to be real with you—I left feeling… nervous. Excited, yes, but also a bit anxious. We got our first question, and while I initially hesitated, unsure how people might react—would they be caught off guard? Triggered?—I decided to go for it today. And wow, it turned into a fascinating 20-minute conversation where I learned so much about someone who’s been in my life for the past year. It reminded me that sometimes the fear of how things might go can hold us back from moments of real connection.
If you’re curious about the Human Connection Group, you can check out their website here. And if you’re dying to know what this month’s question is… well, you’ll have to reach out. Let’s grab a virtual coffee and I’ll tell you all about it. Who knows? Maybe we’ll even have one of those deep, life-changing conversations Stuart keeps talking about.
Here’s to a year of real connections—resolutions optional.

0 Comments

Thanks for the Support!

12/11/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
I just wanted to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey. 
​
Writing 10 Little Life Lessons and sharing my gratitude journals has been incredibly special, and I’m so grateful to have such wonderful family and friends cheering me on. Your encouragement, kind words, and support have made this experience truly unforgettable.
​
As the year comes to a close, I’ll be taking a little break to rest, recharge, and reflect over the holidays. I’m looking forward to returning in the new year with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and even more gratitude to share.
Thank you for being part of this milestone in my life! Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to the new year.

0 Comments

Looking Back With Gratitude

12/3/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Last week, I shared my plan to spend the weekend flipping through my gratitude journals and reflecting on 2024 before the holiday chaos hit. (If you missed it, you can read about the plan here.) Now that I’ve had the time to sit with it and look back on the year, I wanted to share what came up for me during that reflection.

This wasn’t about setting goals for 2025 or evaluating whether I hit every target I set at the start of the year. This session was purely about gratitude—looking at the moments, people, and experiences that shaped my year and reconnecting with what mattered most.

Every day, I write down three things I’m grateful for. I’ve been doing that since the late ’90s, but over time, the practice has evolved. Alongside gratitude, I now include intentions, affirmations, and a simple wellness plan to start the day with focus and purpose. This yearly reflection feels like an extension of that practice—taking the time to look back at what stood out and what I want to carry forward into the new year.

Some themes stood out clearly this year!

Kiwi and Diesel—my constant companions—appeared in my gratitude journals almost every day. Kiwi is pure chaos, always full of energy and keeping me on my toes. Diesel, on the other hand, is cuddly and affectionate, a constant source of comfort. They’re not just pets—they’re family, and reflecting on how much they bring to my life is always grounding.

Groove is my focus fairy. Groove—a coworking app where you virtually connect with up to four other Groovers from around the world, set intentions, work for 50 minutes, and then regroup—was a game-changer this year. It gave me focus, structure, and even a sense of community I didn't know I needed, all in tiny bursts that made work feel more connected and productive.

Another recurring theme was the words opportunity and possibility. I kept seeing those words throughout my entries, whether it was gratitude for the potential for something good to happen or the chance to take a step in a new direction. Even when the outcome wasn’t certain, I appreciated the openness to try and see where life might lead.

Self-care also appeared consistently. From massages to time spent reading, these rituals have been anchors for me over the years. It’s not just about relaxation—it’s about showing up for myself and making time for the things that nourish me. I’ve also relished using my wellness benefits to make these moments happen, which is another thing I’ve been incredibly grateful for.

These reflections reveal a lot about myself and my relationships. The practice of looking back helps me notice patterns—like what I truly prioritize or what holds the most value for me, even if I didn’t see it clearly at the time. It’s a way to deepen my awareness and reconnect with what feels most meaningful.

For me, this practice isn’t about fixing anything. It’s not about wishing I’d done something differently or chasing perfection. It’s about honouring the year I’ve lived—gratefully, imperfectly—and letting those lessons quietly guide me into the next one.

This month, I’m launching a series of new gratitude journals, and I’d love for you to join me on this journey. If you’re thinking about your New Year’s resolutions, why not make gratitude one of them? There’s so much power in pausing, noticing, and reflecting—and I’m excited to help others explore it, too. Let’s make 2025 a year of intentional gratitude together.
0 Comments

Reflections before the New Year

11/28/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
As 2024 winds down, I’m making time this weekend to flip through my journals and reflect on the year before the holiday chaos hits. It’s my way of slowing down, reconnecting with what mattered most, and getting ready for 2025.

So, here’s the plan:

Flip through journals. I’ll rediscover the little things that brought me joy, the goals I set (and the ones I pivoted from), and those unexpected twists life threw my way.

Gratitude moments. My boys, Kiwi and Diesel, are obviously at the top of my list. They’ve been my daily dose of love and laughter all year.

Self-care shoutout. I’m beyond thankful for the time I took to heal, my benefits plan (thank you!), and everyone who showed up for me when I needed it most.

Payday memories. Fun fact: when I look back at my journals from the late 90s, “payday” showed up a lot. As a single mom back then, it was survival—groceries, a roof over our heads, and a little breathing room. Gratitude doesn’t always have to be about the big stuff. Sometimes, it’s about the basics.

Now it’s your turn—what’s something you’re grateful for this year? Drop it in the comments! 
​
Oh, and if you’re a journaler like me, check out the custom journals I’ve created featuring my boys, Kiwi and Diesel. Want one with your own fur family member? Send me a message through my contact page, and let’s make it happen!
0 Comments

Write. Reflect. Recharge.

11/26/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
The end of the year always brings a familiar kind of chaos—holiday shopping, family gatherings, and, if you’re anything like me, trying to carve out moments to rest and recharge. But there’s another season we don’t talk about enough: the use-up-your-benefits-before-the-end-of-the-year season.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a strong workplace benefits package, this is the time to make sure you’re not leaving anything on the table. These resources—whether for physical or mental health—are designed to help us show up as our best selves. And yet, it’s so easy to let them slip by in the hustle of life.
​
For me, this time of year is about reflecting on how far I’ve come in prioritizing my well-being—and that hasn’t always been easy.

From Giving Endlessly to Giving Back to Myself
I spent a decade working in the non-profit world, where benefits were practically unheard of. These roles, which are predominantly held by women, have been historically undervalued and underfunded. Passion for the cause was supposed to sustain us, but that often came at a cost—low pay, long hours, and no safety net.

When I transitioned to a role at Amazon, one of the biggest changes I noticed was access to a robust benefits package. For the first time, I had real support for both my physical and mental health needs, as well as for my family. These benefits have allowed me to address long-overdue health issues and focus on my overall well-being in a way I couldn’t before.
​
It’s not lost on me that the system isn’t perfect. But having access to tools like therapy, physiotherapy, and even estate planning has been a game-changer in how I approach self-care. After years of being overworked and undervalued, finally having the resources to prioritize my health has been deeply meaningful.
 
Building a Self-Care Routine That Works
Today, my benefits have become an essential part of my self-care routine. They’ve given me the tools to address my physical challenges, focus on my mental well-being, and even take better care of my family—including the furry members. Here’s how I’m making the most of them:
  • Physical Wellness Support: Thanks to my benefits, I’ve been able to address physical challenges like a tendon tear and sciatica with regular osteopathy, physiotherapy, and online workouts with a personal trainer, tailored to my injuries. These tools have helped me stay active and mobile, even from the comfort of home.
  • Therapy & Wellness Coaching: Mental health matters, and having therapy covered has made it easier to prioritize. My online therapy sessions are a space where I can process life’s challenges and find clarity. I also work with a wellness coach who helps me set health goals and holds me accountable—a structure that’s helped me stay consistent.
  • Vet Care for My Boys: As a Frenchie owner, I know how prone these little guys are to allergies and health issues. One of the benefits I’ve come to value most is free access to Vetster, which connects me with licensed vets across Canada at any time. Whether I need advice, a second opinion, or just peace of mind, I can consult a vet for free—no extra costs or hidden fees.
  • Estate Planning: One unexpected benefit I’ve grown to appreciate is access to estate planning tools like Willful. Having a will gives me peace of mind, knowing my affairs are in order. It’s one less thing to worry about, and it allows me to focus more fully on the present.
Why Taking Care of Yourself Matters
For so many of us, taking care of ourselves can feel like an afterthought. We prioritize everyone else—our jobs, our families, our communities—and leave ourselves for last. But here’s the truth: self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential. For me, part of that self-care is pausing to reflect and set intentions—something I often do through journaling.

I wrote about this idea in 10 Little Life Lessons, where Lesson #9 is Take Care of You. When we invest in our own health and wellness, we’re better equipped to show up for the people we love and the work we care about.

This idea connects with the spirit of kindness I talked about in my recent World Kindness Day post. Taking care of yourself is an act of kindness to everyone around you—because when you feel your best, you bring your best to others.
 
Reflecting on Gratitude
As the year comes to a close, I’m reminded of the power of gratitude—not just for the benefits I’m lucky to have, but for the progress I’ve made in prioritizing my well-being. Journaling has always been my anchor in this process. Writing down moments of gratitude, reflecting on the steps I’ve taken, and setting intentions for the future keeps me grounded and focused.

Your End-of-Year Reminder
As we close out another whirlwind year, I want to leave you with this: The most valuable gift you can give yourself is your own well-being. Whether it’s using up your benefits, booking a therapy session, or simply taking time to reflect, these small acts of care are investments in a healthier, happier you.
​
So, write, reflect, and recharge—and don’t forget to acknowledge the progress you’ve made. Gratitude for your journey is just as important as the steps you’ll take next. Remember: you’re worth every bit of care and attention you give yourself.
0 Comments
<<Previous

    Author

    Creator of gratitude journals, children’s books, and tools that celebrate the power of reflection. At A Red Lava, I blend mindfulness and storytelling to spark joy, inspire growth, and empower meaningful moments—one page at a time.

    Archives

    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024

    Categories

    All
    10 Little Life Lessons
    Children's Books
    Goal Planning
    Gratitude
    Journaling
    Kindness
    Movember
    Planners
    Reflection

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • Home
  • About
  • Products
    • Notebooks/Journals >
      • 120 Pages 7.5 x 9.25
      • 200 Pages 7.5" 9.25"
      • 6 x 9
    • Gratitude Journals
    • Planners
    • Custom Orders
    • Children's Books
  • Contact
  • Updates