From Where I Stood: A January in Moments
Life is made up of small, ordinary moments—ones we often overlook but that quietly shape our days. In January, I decided to capture some of those moments through a simple perspective: from where I stood. Each photo tells a story, a glimpse into the rhythm of my life.
• Letting the dogs outside – The familiar shuffle to the door, the burst of cold air, the wagging tails. A tiny act of love repeated every day.
• On the treadmill – The hum of movement, the steady rhythm of steps. A commitment to myself, even when it feels like a chore.
• In the car with a book – A stolen moment of stillness, words filling the space before the next thing begins.
• On the stairs at home – A pause between floors, a transition between moments. The in-between places of life.
• At the stove, making soup – Warmth rising, the smell of simmering broth filling the kitchen. A moment of care, both for myself and the people I love.
• Beside my toddler’s bed – The soft rise and fall of breath, the quiet weight of love. A moment I want to hold onto forever.
• At my new desk at work – A fresh start, an unfamiliar space slowly becoming mine. The promise of new routines.
• In the snow with my toddler – Laughter, footprints, and cold fingers. Seeing winter through their eyes makes it magic.
• Watching my toddler play – The sun on my face, the sounds of childhood filling the air. A reminder to slow down and just be.
These photos aren’t grand or extraordinary—they’re just the little moments that make up my days. But looking back at them, I see the quiet beauty in the ordinary, and from where I stand, that’s more than enough.
From Where I Stand
I have a habit of looking down. Not in a metaphorical way, but literally—at my own feet, at the ground beneath me, at the space I occupy in a given moment. “From where I stand” started as a simple photography prompt in college, a way to capture the passing of time through the smallest, most mundane details. The shoes I wore, the floors I walked on, the places that felt like mine for a season.
It became more than just a creative exercise. It was a way to mark time, to recognize the routines and moments that seemed permanent until, one day, they weren’t. The things I did every day—walking a certain path, eating lunch at the same table, unlocking the same door—eventually slipped away, replaced by something new.
In college, “from where I stand” was often a sidewalk cutting across campus, a library floor worn smooth by late-night studying, the entrance to my first real job where I felt equal parts eager and unqualified. My world was small but full of possibility, shaped by new friendships, the weight of books in my bag, and the feeling that everything was just beginning.
Then came the days of being newly married, of standing in new places and doing everything together, just because we could. The world opened up in a different way—road trips, a tiny apartment, the quiet joy of figuring out how to share a life. I took photos of our front porch, of the trails we explored with our new pup, of the kitchen where we played house before we really knew what that meant.
As I stepped into leadership at work, I found myself in meetings, in offices where decisions had consequences, in the spaces where people looked to me for guidance. It was a different kind of adventure, one that required more confidence than I sometimes had. But I captured it anyway—the conference room tables, the leaves on the ground on my way into a meeting, the moments in between where I caught my breath and reminded myself that I could do this.
And now, motherhood. The ground beneath me is softer—nursery rugs, playground mulch, the carpet where I sit cross-legged with a toddler on my lap. My world became both smaller and infinite, measured in first steps, bedtime stories, and the quiet hush of a sleeping house. I take fewer of these photos now, but when I do, they mean more. These are the days I know I’ll look back on and wonder how they slipped away so fast.
From where I stand, life keeps changing. The routines that feel permanent will fade, replaced by new ones I haven’t even imagined yet. But for now, I capture what I can, hold onto the moments, and keep my feet firmly planted in the present.
Plants I’m Loving
I’ve always dreamed of a house so full of plants that it looks like a greenhouse got lost in my living room. When we bought our first house nine years ago, windows and sunlight were a priority for this reason. While my minimalist tendencies, toddler, and dogs keep me from going full jungle mode, plenty of plants have made their way into our home over the years.
Here’s a roundup of my absolute favorite, easy-to-care-for houseplants—ones that have survived (and thrived) despite busy days, occasional neglect, and curious pets.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Light Needs: Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light however they can tolerate little to no sunlight. This plant does not do well in direct light which will burn it’s leaves. For many years, I had a pothos in my office. There were no windows and only fluorescent light and the pothos continued to grow just fine.
Water Needs: I typically water my pothos about once a week, with the soil drying out between waterings. It’s an easy one to tell if it needs water, because it will start to droop a bit. Just give it some water and it will come back to life. You can tell you’re over-watering if the leaves begin to turn yellow.
Why I Love It: It’s nearly impossible to kill. Pothos is the definition of low-maintenance and grows like crazy with minimal effort. I’m obsessed with the way that these trail. The inspiration for how people drape them around window/door frames or onto their floors is endless. This one also has lots of varieties and color variations which really sets it apart from other houseplants. As you can tell, this one is an easy one to love (and take care of)!
Worth Noting: This plant is toxic to humans and animals if eaten due to the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in their leaves and stems, so make sure it’s out of reach!
ZZ (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Light Needs: ZZ plants prefer bright indirect light, but they are so adaptable. This is another one I’ve had in my windowless office at work and it does just fine with the low, fluorescent light.
Water Needs: This baby only needs water when the soil is completely dry and is definitely one of those that will manage if you’re an inconsistent water-er.
Why I Love It: It is the ultimate “set it and forget it” plant. ZZ plants tolerate neglect, low light, and irregular watering, making them perfect for anyone who forgets to water (or goes on vacation often). I love that this plant never looks “leggy” and it fits in so many environments due to it’s flexibility with light and water.
Worth Noting: Another one that’s toxic to pets. It also grows slowly, but that just means less pruning! ZZ plants can develop flowers, but rarely does it happen in a house setting.
Monstera Deliciosa
Light Needs: This guy loves bright, indirect light! I’ve been told west-facing windows are best, but we don’t have any of those in our home. It’s best to avoid direct afternoon sunlight and lower light, as it could prevent new growth.
Water Needs: The more light, the more often you will need to water it. This plant likes to dry out a bit between waterings, so it may look like watering every 1-2 weeks.
Why I Love It: Those big, dramatic leaves give off serious jungle vibes. Monstera is stunning and surprisingly forgiving, bouncing back even if you miss a watering. I love how seemingly small the root ball is compared to the massive leaves and how the fenestrations can make them look so unique. There are more than 45 different varieties to choose from!
Worth Noting: It needs occasional support (like a moss pole) as it grows. Also, it’s mildly toxic to pets, so best to keep it away from chewers. These become super popular in recent years and made them hard to find in mid-MO for a while!
Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
Light Needs: Rubber Trees need medium to bright indirect light for about 8 hours a day.
Water Needs: Rubber trees do best when the soil is allowed to dry out between watering, about every 1-2 weeks. Similar to the pothos, it may start to droop or yellow if it needs a drink.
Why I Love It: Its deep green, glossy leaves add the perfect touch of drama to any room. Plus, it’s relatively low maintenance and can grow into a small indoor tree. My parents had one of these at home growing up, so it always feels a little nostalgic.
Worth Noting: It’s another plant that can be toxic to pets. Also, if you want it to grow tall and strong, occasional pruning will help shape it.
Pilea Peperomioides
Light Needs: Pilea prefer bright to medium indirect light. Too much light can scorch its leaves and too little light will cause it to become leggy or droopy.
Water Needs: I’ve read all kinds of things on pilea watering schedules, but I’ve found that they like to dry out between waterings. I prefer to bottom water this plant. All you need to do is place the plant in a pot with good drainage and then set the pot in a sink filled with water for about 15 minutes.
Why I Love It: The round, coin-like leaves are just so cute. Plus, it’s a prolific grower that produces little “pups” you can propagate. Right before Callahan was born, I propagated 3 pups off my more mature plant and it was so sweet to share one of my favorite plants with a few friends.
Worth Noting: It’s non-toxic to pets! However, it does prefer more humidity than some other houseplants, so occasional misting helps keep it happy. This plant has so many fun names – UFO Plant, pancake plant, coin plant, and friendship plant. I also recommend avoiding temperature fluctuations.
African Violets (Saintpaulia)
Light Needs: African Violets prefer bright indirect light and do well with at least 8 hours of darkness to encourage the plant to produce blooms. In my experience, African Violets don’t really tolerate direct light or being hot.
Water Needs: Watering has been my biggest downfall with this plant – several have succumbed to root rot. Resources I’ve read recommend keeping soil consistently moist but not soggy; I have found that keeping the soil more dry is key. These guys are picky and prefer for you to use room-temperature water.
Why I Love It: The soft, fuzzy leaves and frequent blooms make African violets one of the most charming plants to have around. They flower in a variety of colors, and once you find the right spot, they bloom year-round. Flowers last for a few weeks at a time so you regularly get to see new growth popping up.
Worth Noting: They can be a little fussy about watering—use a bottom-watering method to prevent leaf spotting. They also appreciate a well-draining potting mix formulated for African violets. This one required a lot of pruning due to the year-round blooms and spent leaves. Keeping the plant’s roots restricted helps it to keep blooming.
Succulents (Various Species)
Light Needs: Succulents are the only ones on the list that prefer bright, direct light. If you have succulents, go ahead and get you this Plant Light Meter app.
Water Needs: Overwatering is the number one killer of succulents—less is more! Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Why I Love It: Succulents come in so many shapes, colors, and textures, making them endlessly fun to collect. They thrive on neglect, requiring little more than good light and occasional watering.
Worth Noting: Most succulents are pet-safe, but some (like jade plants) can be toxic, so double-check if you have animals around.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria, now Dracaena trifasciata)
Light Needs: Snake plants can handle anywhere from low to bright, indirect light. Ours sits in our bathroom window which has filtered light from those glass blocks from the 90s and it’s thriving! Our plant has grown about 3 feet in less than 9 months.
Water Needs: Infrequent watering is perfect, which makes it another great candidate for someone who travels.
Why I Love It: The ultimate low-maintenance plant. Snake plants thrive on neglect, tolerate low light, and even improve air quality by filtering toxins. Plus, their tall, upright leaves make them a stylish addition to any space.
Worth Noting: It’s mildly toxic to pets, so keep it away from chewers. Snake plants do best in well-draining soil and can easily rot if over-watered.
Final Thoughts
Bringing greenery into your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These plants have proven to be resilient, beautiful, and (mostly) easy to care for—even in a home with a toddler and pets. Whether you’re new to houseplants or just looking for some low-maintenance additions, these favorites are a great place to start.
What are your favorite houseplants?
The Good List – Snow Day Edition
The Good List: Two snow days for a boy who is really excited about snow. Sprinkled moments in the work (from home) day to play. Opening “presents” at my desk and helping put the final lego on top of the tower – too good. The way that golf and lawnmowing become winter activities. How he wants to be just like his daddy. Cozy blankets to snuggle with when we come inside. An incredible start to my 2025 reading goal. Snow gear from last year that still fits IYKYK. And together being exactly where we want to be.
Cheers to being snowed in with my crew.
The Year of Play
Back again, back again. Setting goals, choosing a word, and a reason for a fresh start really never gets old to me. This is my 13th year with a word and I’m just as excited as when I first chose “joy” back in 2013. When I started this One Little Word journey I would have never expected play to be anywhere in my future line up – even just thinking it makes me itchy. I’m not a very playful person, preferring routines and productivity instead. A lot of my words reflect that but when I pick a word, I try to tie it to expectations I have for the year, a decision I’m trying to make, or an area where I clearly need to get out of my comfort zone. This word is definitely the latter. The words often tug at me or reappear in my life over and over until I can’t avoid it. When that happened this year, I tried to manipulate the idea of play into “fun” or “enjoy” instead, but I kept coming back to the definition:
Play (v): to engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.
SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK (of my mind): for enjoyment and recreation, rather than a serious or practical purpose. I need that. I crave that. I very rarely do something just for the heck of it. I’ve considered it in the past, but “play” resurfaced last year as I navigated 2024 with my word “whole”. The irony of choosing a word like whole is that it really helps you identify the holes…ba dum tss. These words feel like they are companion words of sorts, the two together allowing me to have the bigger picture of what I’m looking for. It really boils down to the structure of my life and taking things a little less seriously. I’m really excited to see how this word unfolds and how it challenges me throughout this year.
As part of my prep work (alongside my Powersheets Goal Planner), I like to outline my intentions and create a vision board that aligns with my word and goals. All of these feel so cohesive to me and I love them so much. This is overkill, but here ya go.
My Vision Board:
ChatGPT helped me create the one below and I thought it was really playful and whimsical.
My Intentions:
⭐️ Play is an invitation to embrace adventure and curiosity. I want to say “yes” to spontaneity and unexpected invitations. I want to explore new places, try new activities, and enjoy simple wonders.
⭐️ Play is an invitation to nurture joy through creativity; to dedicate time to projects *just because*. I want to experiment with art, crafts, and hobbies – letting fun guide me instead of perfection.
⭐️ Play is an invitation to look for laughter and lightness in ordinary routines.
⭐️ Play is an invitation to prioritize rest and ease. I want holistic wellness to be a non-negotiable and I want to do more things to fill my cup.
⭐️ Play is an invitation to stay present and grateful.
My Mantra:
“I embrace play, spontaneity, and joy—filling my days with adventure, creativity, and care for my whole self. Fun is who I am becoming, and wonder is the path I choose.”
My More Poem (Inspired by Elise)
Every year when I sit down to write this exact post, I’m tempted to say how incredibly quick the last year has gone and that I can’t believe we’re here again and I’m picking yet another word. Don’t get me wrong, I love a fresh new year with my whole new set of goals (I’m sure that’s crystal clear by now) but dang, I didn’t expect to be back here so soon and with so few updates in between. This spot on the internet is one of my favorites, but one that seems to fall by the wayside a bit when things get hectic. I absolutely love data, trends, and seeing how my life has looked in different seasons and this truly is the best place I can do that. Having these posts archived online allows me to see the person I was on January 1st for the last 9 years (!!) and is there really anything more spectacular than that? I just took a trip down memory lane, so leaving these links here in case you’d like to as well.
- Whole (2024)
- Experiment (2023)
- Engage (2022)
- Delight (2021)
- Open (2020)
- Rest (2019)
- Connect (2018)
- Thrive (2017)
- Nourish (2016)
Cheers to a year of play and so many good things.