Tara Orminski

Summer’s here, and that means long days, sticky fingers, and the constant question: “What are we doing today?” This is my go-to list of everything that keeps my kids busy, happy, and outside (or at least off screens) — plus a few sanity savers for me too.

Let’s skip the cliché ties and last-minute mugs — this is the Father’s Day gift list that’s all about giving him something he’ll genuinely use (and maybe brag about to his friends). Whether he’s the grill master, the adventure dad, or the chill-in-his-favorite-chair dad, these picks are sure to earn you MVP status this Father’s Day.

Whether you’re shopping for your BFF, your sister, or yourself (because, let’s be real, no one knows us like us), these are the gifts that actually hit the mark. Think: cozy, practical, a little nostalgic, and totally Millennial. Because yes, we still remember AOL and CD towers — but now we also know the value of a good night’s sleep and skincare.

Whether you’re reliving the best (and most chaotic) moments of Mystic Falls or diving into the Salvatore brother drama for the first time, this is your TVD essentials guide. These are the things I keep on hand to channel my inner Elena (or Katherine, let’s be real), light some candles, and embrace the drama.

Every Taylor Swift album has its own mood, aesthetic, and emotional core — and as a lifelong Swiftie, I live for it all. This is my ultimate guide to curating your own “eras” closet, home, and self-care kit, one album at a time. Because sometimes, you’re feeling Fearless, and sometimes, you’re Reputation. And that’s the fun of it.

Tantrums are part of the deal — for toddlers and parents. This is the toolkit I’ve built over time: some things to help my kid chill, some things to keep me from losing it, and a few to help us both bounce back after the storm. Because surviving the meltdown is only half the battle — recovering is the real flex.

Whether you’re chasing toddlers, entertaining tweens, or just trying to get everyone out of the house without losing your mind, Central Indiana has you covered. These are the spots I keep in rotation — fun, affordable, and guaranteed to burn some energy (theirs, not mine).

I’m a Scorpio - which means I don’t recommend things lightly. If it’s on this list, it’s something I’ve obsessed over, tested, and maybe gotten a little emotionally attached to. These products are comforting, a little indulgent, and quietly powerful - just like us. They make life feel more intentional, protected, and (let’s be real) a little more pleasurable!

Because I want my home to look put together — but I’m not spending my Saturday with a staple gun and a glue stick. These are the upgrades that make your space feel fresher, calmer, or just more “you,” without requiring a single power tool. Think: stick-on, plug-in, or toss-it-in-a-basket easy. Perfect for moms who love a vibe but don’t have time for a full reno.

When you become a parent, everyone tells you what the baby needs. But no one tells you what you need to stay sane. These are the things I bought that weren’t just “nice to have” - they were lifelines. If you’re in the thick of it, these might just save your day too.

These are the tools that save me time, boost my reach, and make it look like I’ve got a whole team - when it’s really just me, my coffee, and a Wi-Fi signal. No fluff, no gatekeeping. Just the tech, templates, and tricks I actually use to work less and post better.

Think: hilarious hot takes, pop culture breakdowns, and the kind of chaotic commentary that makes you snort-laugh in public. These podcasts are like your funniest friend and your fyp had a baby. Zero productivity, all serotonin!

If you’ve ever watched a Nancy Meyers movie and thought, “Why doesn’t my kitchen look like that?” - same. This list is for anyone who craves main character energy, perfectly soft lighting, and the kind of cozy, romantic chaos that only exists in fictional New York apartments. These are the little luxuries and everyday items that make life feel like a montage - preferably set to a Norah Jones song.

My go-to beauty routine with holy grails I actually use daily. Budget to bougie, all hits!

Sacramento-area restaurants that are actually worth leaving the house for. Whether it’s a brunch spot that welcomes the stroller brigade, a weeknight dinner that feels like a win, or a date night pick that reminds you you’re still a person - these spots make the chaos (and the check) feel totally worth it.