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Hello hello, welcome to Episode 86 of Life On the Brink!The day has finally arrived. It’s finally springtime again! Even if it’s still a bit chilly, the days are getting longer and bits of green and early spring blooms are popping up, and I’m just so excited for it. The end of every winter always feels like a bit of a wake-up for me. I feel reset and ready to be re-invigorated by the spring season.With that in mind, today I’m focusing on two areas that always excite meat this time of year: spring reads and garden plans. In this episode I'm sharing:-whimsical, springtime books -simple ways to get into (or start!) a garden-how to make the most of your outdoor spaces-a few updates on our new housePlus, this week's Little Joy is a recipe that made a very scary dish so simple to make, and an album of classics to warm my springtime Francophile heart.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 85 of Life On the Brink!Have you, like me, read countless stories of people who uprooted their lives and moved to the south of France, enjoying days of sunshine and yummy food? Well today I'm speaking with Judith Keys, owner of My Food In France, an online cooking membership and community, who did just that!Originally from Northern Ireland, Judith has lived the past 10 years in Provence, and she's recently combined her loves of cooking, baking, and living in France to form a lovely new business adventure.*Find Judith at My Food In France!*In this episode we talk all about:-why and how she moved from the U.K. to the south of France-French food culture -connecting through cooking-farmer's markets and lavender fields-favorite go-to meals and cookbooks...and a lot more!Plus, Judith shares a delicious and heartwarming Little Joy, along with an album of music that's just FUN. For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 84 of Life On the Brink!During the winter season, there are some rituals that become even more essential, and I often find skincare becoming a higher priority. As spring approaches, it’s a wonderful time to look at your skincare routine to help determine what’s working for you and to pay attention to what your skin needs.Our skin is just one part of our external selves, but I can personally attest that when my face is clear and glowy, I carry a bit more confidence knowing that I’m literally putting my best face forward. In this episode I'm talking all about:-the four main steps of a facial skin care routine-affordable products that have served me well -skin care changes to consider in the upcoming season-embracing your natural beautyPlus, this week's Little Joy is inspired by new house (!!!), and I have an album of lively jazz that sets just the right mood.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 83 of Life On the Brink!I’m so excited about today’s episode, as I’m welcoming a very special guest. Today I’m chatting with Zandra Zuraw, an interior design coach and host of the Style Matters podcast. She has taken decades of creative thinking and journeying through home design and made it into a program to help others become their own interior designers through a process she calls "Slow Style."*Find Zandra, her resources, and the Style Matters podcast at Little Yellow Couch* Currently, I have just moved into my first real house and am very much in the middle of a new home design process, so this has come at the perfect time! In this episode we'll delve into topics like:-how to find your personal home style-managing the overwhelming level of options-how to know when your home is "finished"-what "slow style" is, and how to practice it-how our homes and environments can affect our mental health...and so so much more.Plus, Zandra shares not one, but TWO Little Joys, and an album of music that is classic, timeless, and perfect for hosting. For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 82 of Life On the Brink!I love cooking, and the organization of my kitchen has always been a priority, especially since the space is quite small. Though I'm creative with the storage, I’ve really had to prioritize what I keep in my small kitchen. Of course, there are the pots and pans, knives and cutting boards, cooking utensils and baking dishes, but I’ve also made room for a few more specialized tools. Now, I know that these days there’s a gadget for absolutely every cooking task imaginable, most of which I deem entirely unnecessary. There are a few interesting pieces of cookware, though, that have remained staples in this tiny kitchen and are definitely going to be prioritized in our new home.In this episode I'm sharing my Top 10 kitchen "gadgets," along with a few timeless pieces that I have yet to try.Plus, this week's Little Joy is a return to a classic comfort drink, and I have a playlist for romanticizing your time in the kitchen.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 81 of Life On the Brink!So remember last fall when Josh and I bought a house?! It’s crazy, but it happened. But then the holidays also happened, and while we have been making slow changes behind the scenes, it’s about to get real over the next few months. Today I’m sharing not only some of our home updates, but also taking you through my current design process.Whether you’re in the middle of a move like me, or maybe you’re just uninspired by one of your spaces and want to change it up, I’ve got you.In this episode I'm talking all about:-identifying your priorities-creating a mood board for your home-ways to save money during home renovation/furnishing-keeping your sanity when there's a million optionsPlus, this week's Little Joy is a completely unexpected experience, and I'm sharing a playlist of quintessential bebop jazz.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 80 of Life On the Brink!While it's not uncommon for us to need a few sick days during the winter, I think that probably most of our "rough days" aren't due to physical illness or ailment, but rather a mental and emotional place.  It's very easy to get in our own heads, to overthink and overanalyze, becoming overwhelmed. The winter season, or perhaps a new transition or challenge, can certainly make things a little more tricky. Sound familiar?Well, friend, you are not alone, and while this podcast is a place where we consistently examine and adjust and reflect upon our lives in order to better cherish our everyday lives, sometimes we need a little extra help. In this episode I'm sharing:-how to approach a day when you feel overwhelmed-simple ways to bring a bit of comfort to your day-things that have personally helped me (even this week!) in themidst of a big transition-reminders to be kind to yourselfPlus, this week's Little Joy is my new comfort show, and I'm sharing an album of winter-inspired music that is gentle and sweet.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 79 of Life On the Brink, and Happy New Year!It’s time again for one of my favorite episodes: the annual book recap! Today I’m sharing all of the best books I read in 2022, as well as some of your top-rated reads.Last year I had a goal to read 30 books, and ended up reading 35! I don’t make a lot of goals or resolutions when it comes to the New Year, but I really enjoy making this reading goal each year because it’s a hobby that I’m quick to forget I love. I’ve slowly made reading a part of my life again over the past couple of years, and it’s just so enjoyable, so this goal simply serves to challenge me to do more of what I love.And if you, like me, want to read even more in 2023, I have a lovely list of books to get you started!Plus, this week's Little Joy is a bookish moment I had in the middle of a very special trip, and I'm sharing a playlist of soundtracks to make your winter reading a bit more magical.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 78 of Life on the Brink!During these final weeks of the year, there is much celebration. All the parties and feasting usually stretches until January (at least!), but alongside all this festivity also comes quite a bit of reflection. As we rapidly approach the New Year, with its freshness and hidden promises, we often feel the need to set new goals, to reinvent ourselves, right on the tails of a busy holiday season! What if we took a softer, more gentle approach to welcoming the new year?In this episode I'm sharing:-questions for reflection in the new year-understanding your dream life -a sweeter alternative to setting resolutions-ways to share and celebrate this special time with others-the top three episodes of Life On the Brink this year!Plus, this week's Little Joy is a most special item that I am excited to use and share, and I've been listening to the perfect melancholy, atmospheric winter album.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 77 of Life on the Brink!Today I’m bringing another cooking-centered episode, perfect for the holiday season! Sometimes I don’t know what to bring to a Christmas gathering, or am interested in switching up my holiday baking. Sometimes you have a slow evening at home and really need to nourish your body and mind. This episode is covering all those bases with simple, enjoyable, delicious recipes that are personal favorites of mine this Christmas season. In this episode I'm sharing:-warming dinners that will fuel your body-a ginger reset tea-the easiest, most creative party dish-quick dips, drinks, and apps-my favorites holiday desserts this yearPlus, this week's Little Joy is simply magical and FULL of Christmas spirit, and I'm sharing the playlist that has been on repeat in my home. For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 76 of Life on the Brink!Well, you know what they say: tis the season for cozy movie nights. Christmas movies are one of the many delights of the season, and this month is just so perfect for impromptu movie nights with friends and family. So you know it’s only proper that we have an official Holiday Movie Night episode, featuring none other than my sister Sarah! We have quite a bit in common, mostly that we agree on a lot of our favorite movies and that we love throwing a party, so we always have a ton of fun when we have these chats.This episode is all about:-our all-time favorite Christmas movies-guilty pleasure holiday films-unpopular Christmas movie opinions-themed parties for specific films-turning a simple movie night into a special eventPlus, Sarah shares a few Little Joys and an album of Christmas music that is inspiring year after year.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 75 of Life on the Brink!Somehow, crazily enough, it is Christmastime again! Wow, this is such a special time and every year I look forward to it. It’s a time to enjoy those around us, to celebrate with gifts and food and prayers of thankfulness, and is indeed magical. However, this season can also be a great source of stress. This is Part Two of Reducing Holiday Stress, and is inspired by Beth Kempton's book "Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year" by Beth Kempton.This episode is all about:-finding the holiday traditions that are really important to you  -letting go of what Christmas "should look like"-simple ways to slow down and reduce stress during the season-opportunities to give and receive help and compassion...and lots more.Plus, this week's Little Joy is a happy moment that signaled this new Christmas season, and I'm sharing an instrumental album of Christmas-inspired instrumental tracks.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 74 of Life on the Brink!Here in the U.S. we’re entering into the week of Thanksgiving, a day set aside to be grateful for those around us and, let’s be real, eat a delicious meal. This season has made me think, though, about the act of being grateful, the practice of gratitude itself. I’ve heard of “gratitude journals” and whatnot, but I became curious about what the act of “thanksgiving” actually does in your mind and body. With that, I hit the books. I’ve done some research into gratitude and some very interesting findings. Not surprisingly, it’s actually incredibly beneficial and can help reframe our whole perspective!In this episode I'm sharing:-what practicing gratitude looks like-scientific studies on gratitude's affect on mental health-why gratitude makes an impact-the power of your own perspective-simple ways to embrace gratitude this seasonPlus, Our Little Joys for the week are sweet and exciting. I'm sharing one autumnal recipe and one BIG life update.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 73 of Life on the Brink!Today I'm joined again by a very special guest, my mom, Lisi Perkins! It's been a while since we chatted on the podcast, and today we're talking about something very important: hair. My mom is Puerto Rican/Panamanian and had a decades-long struggle with her curly hair until about 10 years ago. Likewise, I've gone through my own curly hair journey as I tried to understand my hair's texture. Well, now we both LOVE our curly hair and are spreading that love to you!In this episode we talk all about:-how we both came to embrace our hair-the official Curly Girl method and how we both use it-affordable curly hair products-horror hair stories and lessons learned-hair cuts and routines for anyone with wavy or curly hairPlus, my mom shares not one, but TWO Little Joys, and I share a sweet album of instrumental music that perfectly bridges the almost-not-quite holiday season we're in.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 72 of Life on the Brink!This autumn has been full of transition for me, as it might also be for you, but also full of so much beauty and joy. I was anticipating the fall season for weeks beforehand, and now that it’s here I simply want to revel in it. Today’s episode is filled with ways that I have currently been enjoying this October, or how I plan to celebrate over the final weekend of the month.In this episode I'm sharing:-what I've been enjoying this fall-a few spooky weekend ideas-how to make your home more cozy (and organized)-ultimate comfort foodand more :)Plus, this week's Little Joy is a sweet experience I had with my brother, and I talk about modern music for once!For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 71 of Life on the Brink!During the chilly autumn season, I find that my love of reading increases even more. Naturally, today we’re talking about books. I have recommendations! Today’s episode is dedicated to “food writing.” This is often the wording used to categorize these not-quite-cookbooks but very niche books that are and have been my reading kryptonite. This list is filled with:-memoirs of renowned chefs-cooking traditions and personal cooking tales -lots of yummy recipes -some lovely fictional stories, all circling around the subject of food and cooking. Plus, this week's Little Joy For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 70 of Life on the Brink!Today's episode is a celebration of fall flavors in the form of cozy and delicious drinks. Surprise, surprise, there's a lot of tea! Yes, today we're going beyond the pumpkin-spiced coffee flavors and diving into the warm and spicy flavors of autumn. Making these drinks at home is actually quite simple, but are so so yummy. Plus, several of these drinks have health or medicinal properties.In this episode I'm sharing:-my revised chai latte recipe-a spicy ginger tea I've recently developed-lots of hot teas and all-natural tonics that you can make at home-ideas for adding a bit of autumn to your cookingPlus, this week's Little Joy is a rich and updated recipe on a sweet classic, and I'm sharing a cozy duet album of standards performed by two of the greats.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 69 of Life on the Brink!We've now entered October, and it's a magical time. It also means that the next 3 months are going to get pretty busy. The holidays are fast approaching and, while we're not going to skip over autumn by any means, now is the time to plan ahead for December.This is Part One of Reducing Holiday Stress, and is all about planning ahead. Today we're simply helping out our future selves so that these last 3 months of the year are as lovely and enjoyable as they can be!In this episode I'm sharing:-2 main areas that cause holiday-related stress-practices that have helped me keep track of everything Christmas-a fun way to brainstorm for the holidays-how to get your calendar in orderPlus, I have a perfect background playlist for this topic, and I'm sharing a Little Joy that never ceases to bring comfort and creativity. For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 68 of Life on the Brink!I am back from Canada! While on this little autumn break I spent some time with Josh in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It was GORGEOUS. Between the mountains, lakes, trees, trails, cabins and TEA it was an autumnal paradise. Certainly the perfect way to transition to this glorious season.To that end, today I’m going to share some stories and highlights that will continue to inspire me this fall season (spoiler: there’s a lot of tea), to hopefully bring some cozy Canadian fall to your home, wherever you are.In this episode I'm sharing:-how and why we chose to travel to Banff-new cozy habits to carry into this autumn-resources for hiking in your hometown-our journey to the off-grid Lake Agnes Tea House-lots of natural beauty and appreciation for maple syrupPlus, this week's Little Joy is a new comfort series that I have fallen in love with, and a custom playlist of cozy tunes that are perfect for autumn. For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 67 of Life on the Brink!We're well into September now, so it's finally time to transition into autumn. I am so very excited about this year's cozy season, and have been curating a collection of books, along with plans for autumnal parties and celebrations, for a few weeks now. This episode is perfect to get you into the autumnal spirit, wherever you are!In this episode I'm sharing:-all the books I plan to read this fall-movie and T.V. show recommendations-annual autumnal parties to plan-lots of themed movie night ideasPlus, this week's Little Joy is a delicious recipe that will take you into the colder weather, and I'm sharing a simply-but-lovely piano trio album that is super happy and cozy.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys