As the golden leaves start their quiet descent and the air turns just a little crisper, I always feel September whisper, “Slow down—you’re doing just fine.”

We’ve made it through the heat of summer, soaked up the sunshine, and watched the school buses roll out again. With the rhythm of back-to-school routines settling into place, there’s something comforting about the return of structure—even for those of us who aren't in school anymore.

February has always been an interesting month for me.

Maybe it’s the leftover coziness of winter, or the pink and red hearts popping up everywhere. Or maybe it’s simply that this time of year makes me reflect on what—and who—I love.

I’ve come to see love as something far bigger than one day on the calendar.

There’s something about January—the hush after the holiday rush, the blank page of a fresh calendar—that invites both hope and a bit of hesitation.

We’re surrounded by talk of big resolutions, vision boards, and dramatic reinventions. And while I’m all for growth, I’ve learned that sometimes, the most meaningful progress happens through small, consistent steps rather than giant leaps.

December has always felt like a month wrapped in both celebration and quiet.

Growing up, I loved the twinkle of lights against the snow, the smell of pine in the house, and the anticipation of gifts waiting under the tree. I still do. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that this season is about so much more than any single tradition or holiday.

Every November, as the air turns crisp and the smell of cinnamon and cloves fills the kitchen, I find myself reflecting on one word: gratitude.

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. Not just for the food (though let’s be honest—pumpkin pie is its own love language). But because it’s about gathering people together, slowing down, and taking a moment to recognize what’s good in our lives—even if things aren’t perfect.

I talk to people all the time who are convinced they’ll get turned into a frog—or at least cursed with a terrifying interest rate—if they even dare ask a lender some questions. The mortgage world can feel like a dark forest full of hidden traps, mysterious fees, and words that sound like Latin incantations (I’m looking at you, amortization).

So let me be your mortgage witch—but the good kind, like Glinda with a calculator and a mountain trail map.

September always brings that back-to-school energy—new pencils, packed lunches, and kids adjusting to routine again. But every fall, I’m reminded of how much we don’t learn in school… especially when it comes to real-life money skills.

We’re taught algebra, the parts of a cell, and how to write a five-paragraph essay (which, yes, I’m ironically using right now). But what about credit scores? Debt-to-income ratio? What it actually takes to buy your first home?

As summer winds down and the scent of pine and smoke still lingers in my memory, I can’t help but think of Camp Steiner.

For ten summers, I worked with youth at 10,000 feet—where there was no electricity, no running water, and definitely no cell service. We hiked alpine trails, filtered water straight from the lake, and taught wilderness survival skills. But what I remember most is watching young people step into confidence.

What hiking (and mortgages) taught me about letting go of pressure and just taking the next step.

I used to think I had to get everything perfect before I could start.

The perfect fitness routine before signing up for a race.
The perfect gear before going on a hike.
The perfect time to buy a home.

Buying a home is exciting, but let’s be real—it can also feel like navigating an obstacle course blindfolded. Knowing what to expect can make the journey much smoother. Here’s a breakdown of the mortgage process so you can move forward with confidence.

For as long as I can remember, movement has been part of who I am. I was a competitive swimmer growing up, and later fell in love with running, hiking, and eventually trail running. The mountains have always been my place to recharge, reflect, and push through limits I didn’t know I could surpass.

If you’re an active-duty service member, veteran, or eligible surviving spouse, a VA loan could be one of the best mortgage options available. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans offer unbeatable benefits but also come with some considerations.

For buyers looking to purchase high-value homes, a jumbo loan might be the best financing option. Jumbo loans exceed the conforming loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, making them ideal for luxury properties or homes in high-cost areas.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. From understanding the loan process to saving for a down payment, here’s what you need to know to get started on the right foot.