Abby Applegate

Welcome to my ‘Slim Picks’ — a list of the things I’m loving as I start a healthier, happier me. From tools that keep me motivated to snacks that actually satisfy, these are the small things making a big difference as I start my weight loss journey!

My youngest daughter just turned two and requested a Bluey themed party! There are SO many cute ideas for this, which makes it harder to decide what to use for your own party without spending a fortune. I've compiled this list of links to things that I used to make my daughter's birthday party special but still ✨budget-friendly✨. We went with a Bluey meets Pastel Rainbow/Daisies sort of vibe so if that sounds like what you are going for, this list is for you!

Whether you're looking to launch a small business or just want a fun, creative outlet, sublimation is a super satisfying way to design and personalize everything from mugs to shirts to tumblers. I’ve put together this list of the exact products I used (and recommend!) when I got started. These are tools that work for both hobbyists and side hustlers alike—just be aware that sublimation isn’t the cheapest craft to start, but it's 100% worth it if you love making custom, high-quality items. If you're curious about what you'll actually need to get going, this list is here to help you hit the ground running with confidence.

I have always loved to read ever since I was little. I can remember being in school and being in the little reading corner of my classroom or in my school's library every chance I could get to dive into another world. Over the years, I've laughed, I've cried, I've gasped (wayyyyy louder than I probably should at times), and followed the journey of SO many characters. And this is a list of the ones that I loved so much so that I wish I could read them for the first time again because there's nothing like the first time you read a good book! These are great to help stem a love of reading, try a new genre maybe, or get you out of a reading slump! I hope you love them as much as I have!*Note: Always make sure to check any trigger/content warnings before reading any novel. A good story isn't worth your mental health 🫶🏻*

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out where to go as a family if you find yourself in the Fort Wayne area, but these are things that are definitely worth being on your itinerary! Most of them free or low cost with only a few exceptions! There are also more options, but I've only listed things that I've personally experienced so that I can give an honest recommendation :)

Gel X nails are trending right now, but it’s so hard to know what exactly you need to get started doing them at home if going to a nail salon is not in your budget or schedule. This list has everything you need to get started in a step-by-step order! These are all either products I’ve used or something very similar to do my nails at home.