Kathryn Zambon

I am a sucker for realistic faux greenery and classic traditional color schemes. One can never go wrong with burgundy, khaki, brass, gold, and green for the holidays. You also won't see me passing up an opportunity to include anything snowflakes. As a perpetuator of using only “warm-white” lighting, candlesticks, and colorful LEDs while NEVER utilizing the overhead lights from November 1st to February 28th, I have tried and tested many different versions. The ones I've found will never disappoint. Just make sure to keep extra batteries on hand for when your lights start to lose their POW. I have to switch them out at least twice per winter season. These are some of my favorite finds from Amazon and Target, which means they are budget-friendly and fast to ship.

As an earth sign, I am drawn to greenery, plants, stone, and natural wood tones. As a Capricorn specifically, I am also drawn to a modern twist on the more organic bohemian styling. I like clean lines and interesting textures. I find my tabletop planters second-hand, BUT they must have a drainage hole. In a room with a wall of windows, wall decor that's living is my favorite type of artwork. Hanging planters, either from a hook or a wall pot, and switching up the colors and textures with the plants themselves is so fun. I stick to the hard-to-kill plants as I tend to either over-love or forget their existence when life gets busy. A few of the ones I haven't been able to kill yet are the classic snake plant, any type of philodendron, succulents, and Spanish moss or other air plants. My favorite place to visit to learn more about indoor plants is GreenSpell Plant Shop in downtown Rutland, VT. It is THE cutest (not so little) indoor plant shop with the most knowledgeable employees. All of them = true plant lovers. If you have a question, they have the answer. Like, is this plant poisonous? Is this one carnivorous? Is this pet friendly? Will this one grow to be the size of Kobe? They will let you know! Follow them on Instagram for fun plant facts and to see what's in stock: @greenspell_plantshop. If you are ever in Central Vermont, please stop in to say hello!

I'd call my design style a take on “Modern-Comforts”, like the way your favorite pair of jeans fits. It's clean, it's modular, and it has subtle pops of colors. It is the perfect foundation for all of your unique finds that can't be found on the internet. It's easing you away from the “Millennial-Gray” and into your own personal color palettes. I have a few small tables and trinkets that I've found over the years while traveling and thrifting. This “Modern-Comforts” (not so blank) canvas has allowed all of my unique pieces, the ones that describe who “I” am, to shine. I've dropped a few pieces here for inspiration, but I also suggest you adventure out to find your own! I highly recommend everything I put in my lists. Have no fear, if it's sooooo bad, I will also tell you what NOT to get… Follow me through my home and keep an eye out for the next room list: Welcome to My Sun Room.

We've been working hard on upgrading the living area in my boyfriend's basement, so much so that I'm still finding paint in my hair! We are trying to turn it into a speakeasy-type space with dark walls/ceilings and utilizing fun lighting schemes for flexibility. His space is split down the middle by the staircase. One half has been turned into a mini sports bar featuring his grandfather's antique wooden rolling bar, dartboard, two TV's (Go Sports!), a mini-fridge, microwave, and popcorn maker. Oh, and I can't forget the draught kegerator for nitro Guinness, of course. The other side features a 100-inch automatic projector screen and record player, both connected to the surround sound system and large down-feather couches to curl up in. We are wrapping up the projects and are excited to share what the final results are. Below is a list of all the things we used to make it come to life!

They say that when you turn 30, your limited warranty expires, and man, are they right. In my 30th year, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that turned my daily habits upside down. I needed to make major changes to my diet and to my sleep and exercise routines to be able to feel like a regular human again. After 10+ years of trying everything from going dairy-free, gluten-free, over-the-counter medications, all types of allergy testing, I had almost given up until I was finally diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. A week-long stint at the hospital finally provided some clarity on why i had been feeling so crappy for so long. Coming away from that experience led me down the immunotherapy support path, and along the way, I discovered a few things. When your digestive system is dysregulated, liquid vitamins are much easier to digest and more make it into your system rather than get washed out. I don't know about you, but I am terrible at taking vitamins every day, but the liquid ones have been so much easier to keep up with. I leave them in a pretty container on my countertop so that I can always see them, and they don't look half bad as countertop decor. I have had more energy, I've been sleeping better, and my stomach has not had as many issues now that I've found the regimen that works for me. I hope this works for you as well! Make sure to check out my list of Kitchen Equipment That Made My Life Easier, which helped me follow the Specific Carbohydrate Diet as well.

Getting diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at 30 was a relief. I know that sounds backwards, but just having a direction to lean towards was hope-provoking. I had been struggling with digestive issues for about ten years at that point, with no resolution. I kicked dairy, gluten, tried over-the-counter medications, and did all of the allergy testing, but none of them seemed to help individually. Hospitalization for a week was finally the golden ticket to my diagnosis. I was lucky enough to have THE GOAT of hospital dietitians on staff during my stay, who lent me her copy of “Breaking The Vicious Cycle: Intestinal Health” by Elaine Gottschall MS, for a bit of light reading. This ended up becoming my bible for the next 10 months and significantly helped me regain freedom in my life. I was no longer confined to my home, social anxieties decreased, and I was able to start participating in activities again without constant pain or fear of being ill. Everyone deserves to feel well, so here is a list of a few products that helped me transition to clean eating with less of a learning curve. Make sure to check out my list: Supplements for Girlies with Autoimmune Issues as well. Hope this helps!

There truly are no words to accurately describe the experience of having to become a caretaker for a loved one diagnosed with dementia. Most have to learn how to manage it while in the midst of it all, forced to learn everything they can about a topic no one ever wishes to be exposed to. Dementia is not easy for the one living with the disease, nor is it easy for their loved ones. Having been a full-time caretaker for my grandmother over the last 4 years and watching as she graduates to new stages of the disease, I've picked up a few things along the way that seem to help both of us have a good day. I hope this list finds those who need it. Remember, even though it may feel like it most days, you are not alone on this journey. Your efforts are appreciated. You are making a positive difference in their life. What you are doing for your loved one IS heroic and will never be a regret.

We are keeping it simple here and only packing the essentials! I severely dislike carrying a large bag with me wherever I go, especially since we all carry around huge reusable water bottles now… Less is best when it comes to remembering not to forget and accidentally leave something behind because you get distracted easily (Hello, ADHD). This short list of mini items should be all you need and possibly still fit in your smallest purse and/or on your keychain!

I may not be a Beauty Influencer, but after years of dance and living life as a girly girl, I've found what works for me! Some of these are clean beauty products, some are just classics I can't give up. Overall, these are the ingredients to an easy 5-minute face that can go from the office to a concert without much extra. I've incorporated some skin care because your canvas is just as important as your paints. Noted are the colors and shades that work for me. I just have fun and bounce back and forth between these products as I feel like it. No need to be perfect, we are all about having fun and doing what makes you feel confident. Reminder!! Most makeup is only good for up to a year, so if you have any old products hanging around, it's time to toss them out and try something new! Hope this helps!

Through trial and error, these are the games we tend to keep coming back to when we have a large group of friends or family or gathering. These are the easiest to explain nd get up and running ASAP as not to lose the attention/interest of guests trying to over explain complicated rules. This allows the group to monitor how the rules are followed, instead of having to assign a referee who understands all the potential nuances. That way, everyone gets equal play time and way less stress. Not to mention, these could also be turned into a version of play where liquid courage is involved as either a bonus or a consequence for those aged 21+. When we attempt to learn a more difficult game (like Wingspan), we tend to always end up playing one of these to close out the night. Hope you enjoy the giggles these produce as much as we do!

Who doesn't love a solid fit-check?! Here's my OOTD (Outfit-Of-The-Day): Line Dancing Edition for summer. Here are a few staple AND statement pieces and accessories that I'll always reach for when getting ready to go Line Dancing. You're bound to make a statement on and off the dance floor with an eye-catching outfit to enhance your flair (or flare) and distract from any trip-ups. Make sure to read the notes associated with these select pics, as I've included some learnings along the way. The Central Vermont line dancing community has been so welcoming and engaging that no matter what level of dancer you are, your peers are there to uplift and support you. What's the #1 Rule on @GoodTimeLineDancingVT's dance floor – “HAVE FUN!”

Quick Fix for the last minute Black-Tie Event!! Here is a brief compilation of finds that have saved the day when I just didn't have the time to find THE dress (or shoes, or purse) for the occasion. If you are going to a ball, a gala, a fundraiser, a wedding, etc; these are a few options that will make you look great, still feel comfortable, keep your wallet happy (under $200 for your entire outfit!!), and arrive in the mail on-time when you order at the last minute (Thank you, Amazon Prime). These pieces have been worn and repeated by myself and my friends on so many occasions. It's almost as though these items are a part of the “Sisterhood of Traveling Black-Tie Ensembles”…

Coming from a local boomerang (someone who has lived away from their hometown and now returned), I've been branching out to experience my hometown more and more. I'd love to share with you a few of my favorite places and activities. Vermont is known for its seasons (quick shout out to the autumn foliage), but you can always find something to do. Each season has its own outdoor activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing, or mountain biking and hiking. Everything from a day on the lake, to picking apples and touring the maple farms. And there is no lack of indoor activities since winter tends to be almost half of the year. You can find everything from indoor rock climibng to golf simulators. Looking for Things To Do in Central Vermont? Check out this Local Guide for a detailed map of some personal favorite stops along the way: bit.ly/4kssC1s Need a place to stay? Here is a 5-star rated AirBnb central to the state of Vermont. You can get anywhere for a day trip in half the time if you start from here: airbnb.com/h/thegreendoorvt Comment to let me know what you'd liek to see more of!

As I'm planning for a themed party based on my best friend's favorite movie of all time, Mamma Mia!, I thought I'd share the collection of my discoveries. These are the ABBA and Mamma Mia! outfits and decor that I decided to purchase to bring the theme to life in a clear and obvious way. No one will have to guess what we are about! These could totally work for Halloween or Halfoween if you need another reason to wear them again. Hope this list inspires you to throw your own ABBA/Mamma Mia! party or at least get dressed up and go out on theme for no real reason other than to have some fun.