Xine Segalas

Books can take us places we have never been before. Looking for the best books set in Africa? This list brings together literary classics, contemporary fiction, memoirs, history, thrillers, and travelogues that capture Africa’s spirit. Whether you want to walk the streets of Lagos, fly across the Kenyan skies, explore the Congo rainforest, or feel the pulse of South Africa, these books offer rich perspectives and immersive storytelling. Perfect for travelers, history lovers, and readers who want to explore the world through books.

When my husband was recently diagnosed with Alpha-Gal Syndrome, I realized how much there was to learn—and how many parts of our daily life would need to change. He’s still coming to terms with it, but building this list has helped me feel less overwhelmed. Here you’ll find the resources, recipes, and personal stories I’ve gathered so far—tools that are helping me (and hopefully him, too) take the first steps toward navigating this allergy with more confidence and clarity.

This is my dream barn vision board — a curated collection of builders and inspiration that capture the beauty, craftsmanship, and hardworking practicality I want for our future barn. From traditional New England timber frames to durable steel structures and handcrafted Amish barns, these designs blend timeless style with everyday function.

After raising chickens before, we’ve learned what really works for our flock and what’s worth investing in. This is our collection of tried and true essentials — safe, non-toxic, and easy to maintain — plus a few new options as we search for our next coop. From seasonal setups to predator protection and daily comforts for our hens, everything here supports a happy, healthy backyard flock of 4 to 8 hens (no rooster needed!).

I want to add some more color to my garden, so I’ve pulled together my favorite bulbs for next season—irises, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and more. Some are classics I return to year after year; others are new hybrids I can’t wait to try. Planting them in autumn means a gorgeous, colorful garden come spring, from the first muscari to the last reblooming iris.

🐶 Unforgettable Reads That Celebrate Our Best Friends These are the stories that stay with you—tales of loyalty, love, loss, and laughter, all seen through the eyes of our favorite companions: dogs. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming escape, a good cry, or a reminder of how much dogs give us, this list has something special. If you’ve ever loved a dog, these books are for you.

Discover the must-read books of Spring 2025! From breakout debuts to buzzworthy bestsellers, this list has something for every kind of reader. I’ve handpicked these titles based on early buzz, personal interest, and a little book-lover intuition. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Twisted plots, unreliable narrators, and mind games you won’t see coming. These psychological thrillers dive deep into obsession, deception, and the darkest corners of the human mind. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This collection brings together the best essentials for senior dog care — from orthopedic beds and mobility aids to calming products, joint support, and easy-to-use food and water bowls. Based on years of caring for my own senior dogs, every recommendation is chosen to help aging dogs stay comfortable, mobile, and happy at every stage. 🐾 Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this list, at no extra cost to you.

If your dog is a toy destroyer, you’re not alone. This list rounds up the toughest toys out there—tested and approved by my own power chewers. From indestructible stuffed animals to long-lasting balls and interactive toys, these picks hold up to teeth, tugs, and tosses. Built for durability, fun, and multi-dog households, these are the toys that actually last.

Walks, Control & Sanity-Saving Must-Haves Walking two (or more) dogs doesn’t have to mean tangled leashes, pulled shoulders, or chaos. This list features the gear I actually use and love—from no-pull harnesses to smart leashes, hands-free tools, and poop bag solutions that make life easier. Whether you’ve got a pair of playful pups or a full dog squad, this is your go-to guide for keeping it all together.

Fajita night made simple, fun, and full of flavor. This curated collection of my favorite ingredients, kitchen tools, toppings, sides, drinks, desserts, and after-dinner extras for creating an unforgettable fajita night. Whether you're making chicken or steak, serving two or a crowd, here are the things I love and recommend.

We love Italian food and have traveled across Italy—from the Amalfi Coast to Rome, Lake Como, and Venice. This list brings together our favorite essentials to recreate those unforgettable meals at home, bringing the essence of Italy—and a taste of our ancestors' traditions—into our kitchen.

Our go-to recipes for every season and celebration — from cozy dinners to holiday traditions, sweet treats, and everyday favorites. Cook, share, and keep our family flavors alive!

If you love classic board games but want something new and exciting, this list is for you! I was pleasantly surprised to discover how many fun and creative versions of favorites like Monopoly, Clue, and The Game of Life are out there — and after buying the Yellowstone Monopoly edition for myself, I knew I had to put together a collection to share. You’ll find themed editions, collector’s sets, kid-friendly remakes, and giant-sized spins on timeless games — perfect for family nights, parties, or anyone who loves a fresh take on the classics. This list contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking for board games, card games, and outdoor games that are fun, replayable, and perfect for any occasion? This list includes our favorite go-to games for family nights, parties, weekends at the lake, and everything in between. From quick card games and classic board games to exciting outdoor activities, these picks are easy to learn, fun to play, and great for kids, teens, and adults alike.

Looking for board games, card games, and outdoor games that are fun, replayable, and perfect for any occasion? This list includes our favorite go-to games for family nights, parties, weekends at the lake, and everything in between. From quick card games and classic board games to exciting outdoor activities, these picks are easy to learn, fun to play, and great for kids, teens, and adults alike.

Discover our family's go-to collection of small-batch, artisan oils and vinegars—handpicked for flavor, quality, and craftsmanship. From bold extra virgin olive oils to fruit-infused vinegars and spicy chili blends, these pantry staples elevate everyday cooking. Whether you're roasting, drizzling, dipping, or mixing cocktails, these bottles deliver big flavor in every pour.

This is our curated pantry guide—full of essentials we use all the time, from everyday seasonings and condiments to gourmet cheeses, Mediterranean grains, and small-batch butters. Whether you're cooking from scratch, building a charcuterie board, or upgrading your freezer stash, these are our favorite tried-and-true picks.Some are healthy, some indulgent—but they’re all worth a spot in your kitchen.

This collection brings together my written world—where personal truth meets creative imagination. Through fiction, I explore life’s twists and turning points. In verse, I capture emotion in its rawest form. Some pieces are rooted in memory, others in what-ifs, dreams, or darker corners of the mind. Whether you’re drawn to stories with depth or poetry that lingers, this is where my voice comes to life—one word, one line, one feeling at a time.

A showcase of my Vocal Media Top Stories and Challenge-winning entries. Featuring standout fiction, poetry, and personal essays recognized for creativity, storytelling, and impact. Follow along as I continue to share award-winning writing and new featured works.

Celebrate every age and stage with charming, customizable birthday cards and invitations—perfect for kids, babies, pets, and more! From whimsical fairy tales to adorable animal themes, each design is created with joy and personality in mind. As the artist, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links—thank you for supporting independent art.

New Hampshire Naturally is a curated collection of my original photography, featuring serene lakes, vivid sunsets, majestic mountains, and local wildlife from Newfound Lake and beyond. Available as note cards, postcards, and wall art—each design captures the quiet beauty of the Granite State. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

A collection of my original photography capturing the natural beauty of Newfound Lake and the surrounding landscapes I call home—peaceful waters, forested trails, and the quiet magic of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.

Your guide to the best of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region—from local dining and cozy places to stay, to shopping, outdoor adventures, camps, and hidden gems worth the detour. Whether you're here for a weekend or the whole season, this list will help you experience the area like a local.

When friends come up to visit, we like to raise a pint or two to the Granite State.🍺🍺 From the shores of Newfound Lake to the bays of Winnipesaukee, these Lakes Region brew pubs serve small-batch beers with big New Hampshire character. Explore local flavors, soak in the scenery, and let every pint lead you to a new adventure.

Discover the best of Newfound Lake and the surrounding towns—from scenic hikes and peaceful paddles to cozy cafés, country stores, and local hidden gems. Whether you’re here for a day or a season, this guide highlights the can’t-miss spots that make the Newfound Lake area so special.

🎶 Music makes learning stick. These songs boost my vocab, improve pronunciation, and make me want to dance.

These are some of the stoves and fireplaces I explored while planning our current renovation. From sleek modern models to cozy classics, this list highlights options that combine style, warmth, and efficiency. Whether you're dreaming of a centerpiece hearth or upgrading your heating setup, I hope these picks help spark ideas.

I've been doing a major renovation and here are some of the fireplaces I have been looking at as possibilities. They offer effortless warmth and the sleek design I am looking for—these gas fireplaces bring bold style and cozy comfort to any space.

I’m renovating our great room with a modern contemporary mountain style—clean lines, timeless design, and a minimalist European slant. This list includes lighting I’m considering for the high ceilings and wide walls, with a focus on North American-made fixtures, brushed nickel finishes, and safe, high-quality wiring. No rustic lodge vibes here—just crisp, understated elegance.

’m always looking for ways to grow my skills in the kitchen, and these classes have caught my eye. Whether you’re a beginner or a home cook looking for new inspiration, I hope this list sparks some delicious ideas!

🎨 These are the Patreon art teachers who’ve inspired me, taught me new skills, and helped me grow creatively—especially in Procreate and digital painting. Whether you're into landscapes, character design, watercolor styles, or acrylics, these artists offer easy-to-follow tutorials that make learning fun. If you're looking to level up your art and stay inspired, you’ll love exploring these creators as much as I have!

This is my curated collection of the best language learning apps, YouTube channels, and live tutoring platforms for mastering Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italian, Greek, Chinese, and more. These resources cover everything from grammar and vocabulary to pronunciation and cultural insights—perfect for beginners, intermediate learners, and polyglots in the making.

My Mountain Chic Style Guide - Welcome to my collection of favorite designers, go-to wardrobe essentials, and inspirations from the mountains to the open range. I love high-quality pieces that blend rustic charm with timeless sophistication. Think flowy fabrics, rugged boots, statement hats, and the kind of threads that feel like they tell a story. This is where my love for mountain country wear meets stylish western flair.

These are the tops and dresses that feel like me—easy, breathable, and full of quiet confidence. Every piece is made from natural fibers like cotton and linen because comfort matters just as much as style. Whether it’s a flowy tunic, a flirty swim top, or a crisp button-down with a twist, each one brings together softness, structure, and serious attitude. This is style that moves with me, breathes with me, and makes me feel amazing in my own skin.

These are the swimsuits, cover-ups, and beach layers I actually wear—or would love to. I’m all about styles that feel flattering, comfortable, and confident without sacrificing personality. Whether I’m looking for full coverage, a pop of color, breathable fabrics, or just something that makes me feel amazing, this is where I come to find my sunshine-ready favorites.

Recovering from an ACL or knee injury? This guide includes the must-have products, comfort gear, and mindset tools that helped my kids through multiple surgeries—essentials to support every step of healing.

It all started when my kids asked about new luggage for Christmas and birthdays. Ours is over 20 years old (and it shows), so I dove into researching what’s out there now—smart, stylish, and ready for wherever your travel dreams take you. Here’s what I’ve found so far—whether you’re planning a trip or just building a wish list.

I love Capri—its timeless beauty, rich history, and dramatic landscapes left a lasting impression. While listening to a novel set on the island, I felt inspired to create this curated guide to Capri. It includes everything from where to stay and eat to what to wear and read and how to plan your perfect itinerary—whether it’s your first visit or a stylish return to one of the world’s most iconic Mediterranean destinations.

I’ve been looking to freshen up my look—something light, natural, and easy. I’m not one for a full face of makeup, but I do love a clean, effortless glow (sometimes even a little sun-kissed). These are the makeup picks - some currently in my cart—simple, wearable, and perfect for a minimalist routine.

Looking for an easy, no-fuss skincare routine that actually works? This list is for real people who want healthy skin without a 10-step process. I’m 60, live in the mountains of New Hampshire, and my skincare is simple, soothing, and practical. These are my go-to basics—gentle cleansers, light moisturizers, and a few tools I actually use (like a jade roller by my desk). Whether you’re starting fresh or just want to simplify, this minimalist skincare list has what you need—without the overwhelm.

From styes and swollen lids to puffiness, dryness, and allergy flare-ups, this list is packed with soothing, protective, and restorative products to support your eyes—especially as they change with age. I'm building a more intentional routine for my 60-something eyes, and these are the creams, wipes, compresses, and gentle treatments I actually use (or am excited to try). If your eyes need a little extra TLC, you’ll find real relief here.

I’m a longtime lover of playing cards and collecting cool, beautiful things—so this list is where those passions meet. Here you’ll find an ever-growing collection of the best and most unique collectable playing cards: from pop culture decks and fantasy book tributes to Disney favorites, foodie themes, artful designs, anime, and even language-learning flashcards. I’ve gathered standout playing card decks from top creators like Theory11, Bicycle, Kings Wild Project, and Riffle Shuffle. Whether you're a cardist, collector, or just love a good shuffle, there’s something here to spark your interest.