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The Science Behind Sunburns: Understanding the Damage to Your Skin

On a radiant summer day, with the sun casting its warm embrace, there’s a familiar sting that interrupts the bliss—the unmistakable sensation of sunburn. As someone with a fair complexion, I’ve made a personal goal this year to shield my ginger skin from the sun’s wrath, only to face disappointment. This experience fueled my curiosity to explore the intricate science behind sunburns. So, join me on this journey as we unravel the mysteries of sunburn and explore what it really does to our delicate skin.

The Basics of Sunburn:


Sunburn is the skin’s response to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, specifically UVB rays. UVB radiation penetrates the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, triggering a series of biological reactions.

  1. UV Radiation Penetration:
    When you spend time in the sun, UVB rays penetrate the epidermis and reach the deeper layers of the skin. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, setting off a cascade of cellular and molecular events.
  2. Inflammatory Response:
    As a protective measure, the body initiates an inflammatory response to repair the damaged skin. Blood vessels dilate, causing the skin to become red and warm to the touch. This inflammatory process is the body’s attempt to remove damaged cells and initiate the healing process.
  3. Increased Melanin Production:
    Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, is the body’s natural defense against UV radiation. When exposed to UV rays, melanocytes—the cells that produce melanin—increase melanin production in an effort to absorb and scatter the harmful radiation. This results in the skin darkening or tanning, which is a sign of damage, not protection.
  4. DNA Damage:
    UV radiation directly damages the DNA in skin cells, causing mutations and alterations. If the DNA damage is severe, the affected cells may undergo apoptosis (cell death) or become cancerous over time. Chronic sun exposure increases the risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
  5. Release of Pro-inflammatory Molecules:
    UV radiation triggers the release of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, which contribute to the inflammatory response. These molecules attract immune cells to the site of injury and further amplify the inflammatory process.

Long-Term Effects of Sunburn:


While sunburn may seem like a temporary inconvenience, its effects can have long-lasting consequences on the health and appearance of your skin.

  1. Premature Aging:
    Chronic sun exposure accelerates the aging process of the skin, leading to the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. UV radiation degrades collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis, causing the skin to lose its elasticity and firmness.
  2. Increased Risk of Skin Cancer:
    Repeated sunburns and unprotected sun exposure significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, predisposing them to malignant transformation. It’s essential to protect your skin from the sun and practice sun-safe behaviors to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
  3. Suppression of Immune Function:
    Excessive sun exposure can suppress the immune function of the skin, impairing its ability to defend against infections and environmental toxins. This weakened immune response may increase susceptibility to skin infections and delay wound healing.

Preventing Sunburn:


Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your skin from sunburn and its harmful effects. Here are some tips for sunburn prevention:

  • Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
  • Seek Shade: Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, tightly woven clothing, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation similar to the sun and can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.


Sunburn is more than just a temporary inconvenience—it’s a visible sign of the skin’s response to UV damage. Understanding the science behind sunburns can help you appreciate the importance of sun protection and adopt sun-safe behaviors to safeguard your skin’s health. By taking proactive steps to prevent sunburn, you can enjoy the sun safely and maintain healthy, radiant skin for years to come.

xoxo
-S

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Dill Pickle Soup: A Surprising Twist on Comfort Food

So. Have you heard about the latest foodie craze? You probably have because I caught onto this months ago and it was old news then.

Dill pickle soup! Yeah, you heard me right—soup made with pickles. It might sound a bit out there, but trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked. Tangy dill pickles swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s like comfort food with a twist!

The beauty of dill pickle soup is how it brings together these unexpected flavors in such a delicious way. The brininess of the pickles adds a kick, while the creamy base makes it oh-so-comforting. If you’re curious to try it yourself, I’ve got a killer recipe below that’ll knock your socks off. Get ready to join the pickle soup craze—you won’t regret it! Now, keep in mind that I don’t actually use measurements, I measure from the heart – follow at your own risk. ʕ·ᴥ·ʔ

1/2 stick of butter (salted, duh)
1-32(ish)oz jar of your favorite dill pickles (this is key, the heat is going to amplify the flavor, don’t cheap out)
1 cup of heavy cream (or half and half, or milk if you’re a savage)
1 cup or chicken broth (or, I honestly just prefer to mix up a cup of Knorr Chicken Bullion)
Diced Ham. I don’t know how much. A lot – like at least a pound
2 extremely healthy handfuls of shredded cheese (prefer half mozzarella and half cheddar)
1 extra heavy scoop of minced garlic
Fresh Dill to taste
Optional: bacon, potatoes, carrots, onion

For garnish: shredded parmesan, fresh dill, crispy dillies, chopped bacon

In a large pot, melt the butter and toss in the ham over medium heat. While that is doing it’s thing, dice up all the pickles in the jar and any other veggies you’re planning on adding. KEEP THE JUICE you silly fool. Actually, just go ahead and dump the juice in the pot right now. It’s fine. Add the diced veg to the pot. along with everything else and turn the heat to low. Stir constantly until the cheese has melted. If the soup is thin, I like to thicken in with just a little (like spoonful) tapioca starch. (This girl can’t eat corn so I don’t use cornstarch, but you could) OR just more cheese. Typically more cheese is the best answer. Sometimes I even use cream cheese. Feel free to make it your own!

That’s it! Enjoy topped with your garnishes, and maybe a nice crusty piece of bread or soft pretzel.

It’s simple, delicious, filling, and comforting. Happy soup time! Tell me below if you tried this recipe or any other version before and what you think!

xoxo
-S


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A Garden of Dreams: Wishing for Paradise in My Backyard

In the quiet corners of my mind, there’s this image that keeps coming back—a picture-perfect garden, where every leaf dances in harmony with the breeze, and every flower seems to whisper secrets of the earth. It’s more than just a patch of greenery; it’s a sanctuary, a haven, a slice of paradise right in my backyard.

Winding paths lead to hidden nooks, each one a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Maybe there’s a cozy spot under a blooming rose arch where I can curl up with a book, or a sunny clearing where butterflies flit about like tiny fairies. Every step would be an adventure, every corner a new story waiting to unfold.

But it’s not just about the beauty—it’s about the bounty too. Rows of veggies stand tall, their vibrant hues a testament to the earth’s generosity. There’d be tomatoes so ripe they practically burst in your hand, and herbs that fill the air with their fragrant aroma with every breeze.

And at the heart of it all, a tranquil pond, its surface as smooth as glass, reflecting the ever-changing sky above. Here, lilies would bloom in silent reverence, their petals kissed by the morning dew. And beneath the surface, graceful koi fish would glide, their movements a mesmerizing dance.

In this garden, time would seem to slow down. Each morning, I’d wake up to a world painted in shades of green and gold, where worries melt away like morning mist. It’s a place where the hustle and bustle of the outside world fade into the background, replaced by the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and bubbling water.

As the seasons change, so too would the garden. In spring, it would explode with color as flowers burst forth from their winter slumber. Summer would bring a riot of greenery, alive with the hum of bees and the trill of songbirds. And come autumn, the leaves would turn to flame, casting a warm glow upon the earth.

But more than anything, this garden would be my refuge—a place to escape from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. It’s a dream I hold onto tightly, a beacon of hope in an uncertain world. And who knows? Maybe one day, I’ll step outside and find that my dream garden has become a reality, a slice of paradise right in my backyard.

xoxo
-S

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Lost in the Thicket: A Writer’s Journey Through Overwhelm and Blockage

Hey there. Today, I want to share a story – a tale of feeling utterly lost in the thicket of overwhelm and writer’s block. Many of us have lived through this narrative, navigating a maze of frustration and confusion that seems impossible to escape.

You sit down at your desk, eager to pour your thoughts onto the page, but as you stare at the blank screen, a sense of dread washes over you. Your mind resembles a tangled web of thoughts, each vying for attention but failing to form coherent words.

You try to push through, to force the words out onto the page, but it feels like trying to swim against a powerful current. The more you try, the more overwhelmed you become. It’s suffocating, like being trapped in a dense fog with no clear path forward.

Doubt creeps in – questioning your abilities, your ideas, your worth as a writer. You wonder if maybe you’re just not cut out for this, if maybe you should find something else to do with your life.

But deep down, you know that’s not true. Writing is a part of who you are, woven into the very fabric of your being… and so you press on, despite the overwhelming despair.

You try everything to break free – meditation, long walks, even talking to other writers about your struggles. Nothing helps. It’s a never-ending cycle of frustration and self-doubt.

Yet amidst the darkness, moments of clarity emerge – brief glimpses of light that penetrate the dense fog. Moments when a stray thought or fleeting idea breaks through the barriers and takes root in your mind.

These moments give you hope – hope that maybe, just maybe, you’ll find your way out of the thicket and emerge on the other side, stronger and more resilient.

So you keep writing, even when it feels like you’re banging your head against a brick wall. You keep pushing forward, trusting that eventually, the fog will lift and the words will flow once more.

Slowly but surely, they do. It’s like a dam breaking, a rush of creativity flooding your mind and filling the blank page with a torrent of words.

You realize then that writer’s block is not permanent, but rather a temporary obstacle to overcome. It’s a season of life, one that will pass in time, leaving you stronger and more determined than before.

To all my fellow writers lost in the thicket of overwhelm and blockage – hold on. Keep pushing forward, even when it feels impossible. Trust that the fog will lift, and the words will come; when they do, they’ll be all the more precious for being so hard-won.

It starts with recognizing that you’re not alone in this struggle. Writer’s block is a common experience shared by writers of all levels, from novices to seasoned professionals. It’s a natural part of the creative process, a sign that your brain is grappling with complex ideas and emotions.

Next, it’s important to acknowledge the psychological toll that writer’s block can take. It’s not just about being unable to write – it’s also about feeling inadequate, frustrated, and overwhelmed. These emotions can be paralyzing, making it even harder to break free from the grip of writer’s block.

One of the most effective ways to overcome writer’s block is to change your mindset. Instead of seeing it as a personal failure, reframe it as a natural part of the writing process. Give yourself permission to write badly, knowing that you can always revise and improve later. This takes the pressure off and allows you to approach your writing with a sense of curiosity and experimentation.

Another helpful strategy is to establish a regular writing routine. Set aside a specific time each day to write, and stick to it, even when you don’t feel like it. Consistency is key – the more you write, the easier it becomes to get into the flow and overcome writer’s block.

It’s also important to create a supportive writing environment. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your writing, and avoid negative influences that may feed into your self-doubt. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can focus without distractions, and consider using tools like music or ambient noise to help get into the writing zone.

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend or seeking professional support, reaching out to others can provide valuable perspective and encouragement. Remember, writer’s block is a temporary setback – with time, patience, and perseverance, you can overcome it and rediscover the joy of writing.

xoxo
-S

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Embracing Authenticity: Liberating the Self from the Burden of Apologizing

This post was going to be a bit of an apology for not posting yesterday, but after a phone call with a collogue I have a bit of advice to heed “never apologize”.

To clarify – the intention of yesterday’s post was to be the announcement that my video finally uploaded to YouTube, but, as it turns out, the last little stretch has still taken 48 hours. I get a bit annoyed with that, but I digress…

Let’s dive into this apology thing a little bit.

In a world where conformity often masks the true essence of individuality, the notion of refraining from apologies can be a radical act of self-affirmation. It’s about reclaiming the narrative of our lives and refusing to diminish our authenticity through unnecessary self-deprecation. While the concept of never apologizing may seem confrontational, it is, at its core, a declaration of self-worth and a commitment to honoring one’s truth.

Apologizing, in many contexts, has been ingrained as a societal expectation—a reflexive response to avoid conflict or maintain harmony. However, this ingrained habit often comes at the cost of our authenticity. How many times have we apologized for expressing our opinions, pursuing our passions, or simply being who we are? Each apology chips away at the foundation of our self-esteem, reinforcing the notion that our true selves are somehow flawed or unworthy.

By embracing the concept of never apologizing, we liberate ourselves from the shackles of societal judgment and self-doubt. It’s about unapologetically owning our beliefs, desires, and boundaries, without seeking validation or approval from others. In doing so, we reclaim our power and assert our right to exist authentically in a world that often demands conformity.

Moreover, refraining from apologies allows us to set boundaries and prioritize our well-being without guilt or hesitation. How often do we apologize for saying no, asserting our needs, or simply taking up space? By rejecting the need for constant validation, we cultivate a deeper sense of self-respect and self-love, honoring our inherent worthiness regardless of external validation.

Furthermore, the concept of never apologizing is not about absolving oneself of accountability or refusing to acknowledge mistakes. Rather, it’s about reframing apologies as acts of self-betrayal—a betrayal of our true selves in service of societal expectations. It’s about discerning when apologies are genuine expressions of remorse and when they are merely attempts to placate others at the expense of our authenticity.

In embracing this mindset, we create space for radical self-acceptance and self-empowerment. We reject the notion that our worthiness is contingent upon meeting arbitrary standards or conforming to societal norms. Instead, we celebrate our uniqueness, honoring the diverse tapestry of human experience without apology or explanation.

The concept of never apologizing is not a rejection of accountability but rather a celebration of authenticity. It’s about reclaiming our right to exist unapologetically and honoring the truth of who we are, without diminishing our worthiness for the sake of conformity. So, let us embrace the power of authenticity and liberate ourselves from the burden of unnecessary apologies, for in doing so, we pave the way for a more inclusive, compassionate, and authentic world. That being said – I am not advocating for not apologizing when it is earned or necessary. I am saying that apologizing for things you have no control over (you know who you are) or small, trivial things, or things that make you intrinsically you are does you no good and teaches the other person that you do not deserve respect.

Just some food for thought.

xoxo
-S

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Embracing the Complexity: Navigating the Multifaceted Personality

Navigating Self-Doubt and Psychological Concerns

So, you’re someone with all these interests – art, science, sports, music – you name it, you’re into it. Now, fitting all of that into one neat little box? Yeah, not happening. It’s like trying to force a square peg into a round hole. Frustrating, right?

Here’s the thing, with all these diverse passions, it’s easy to feel a bit lost at times. You might start questioning yourself – are you just scatterbrained, or maybe there’s something more going on? It’s like you’re trying to solve a puzzle with half the pieces missing, and trust me, it’s stressful.

Then there’s society, always trying to slap labels on everything. So, when you don’t fit neatly into one of their boxes, it’s like you’re constantly swimming against the current. Exhausting? Oh, absolutely.

Having a bunch of different interests doesn’t mean you’re broken. Nope, not at all. Psychologists actually encourage embracing your complexity. It’s what makes you, well, you! Instead of trying to cram yourself into a box, why not celebrate your uniqueness? You’re like a one-person variety show, and that’s pretty darn cool.

It’s okay to feel a little lost sometimes. We all do. But you don’t have to go it alone. Reach out to your friends, your family, or even a professional if you need to. Talking about what you’re going through can be a game-changer. Trust me, there’s strength in numbers.

Reframing Perspectives and Seeking Support

Now, let’s flip the script here. Instead of seeing your diverse interests as a burden, why not embrace them as a superpower? (And this is advice even I need to start taking…) Seriously, think about it. You’ve got this whole arsenal of skills and passions at your disposal. That’s pretty powerful stuff.

Sure, navigating life with a multifaceted personality can be tricky. But it’s also what makes you so dang awesome. You’re not just a one-trick pony—you’re a whole circus! So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by all your interests, just remember: you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not broken. You’re just beautifully complex, and that’s something to celebrate.

If you ever need a reminder of just how awesome you are, just reach out. Whether it’s a friend’s pep talk or a session with a therapist, there’s no shame in asking for help. We’re all in this together, after all. You could even comment below! I really would like this community to be a place of strength and support, and let’s face it, if you follow me, you’re down or the chaos.

Embracing Complexity as a Source of Strength

Alright, let’s wrap this up with a big ol’ bow. Embracing your complexity isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. It’s about owning every quirky, unique part of yourself and shouting it from the rooftops.

So, the next time life throws you a curveball, don’t sweat it. You’ve got this. With your diverse interests and unwavering resilience, there’s nothing you can’t handle. You’re a force to be reckoned with, my friend. So go out there and show the world what you’re made of. You’ve got this!

xoxo
-S

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Embracing the Dream: My Homesteading Journey Re-ignites!

Grab your favorite mug of something warm and get cozy because on this blustery day in May (the weatherman said 100% chance of yuck) I’m about to revisit a dream that’s been simmering in my heart for as long as I can remember. That’s right—I’m venturing into the captivating world of homesteading! Again.

First – a little catch up – To be completely honest, we all know I’ve been working towards that dream for years. Briefly, I’ve spoken to you about my setbacks in the recent past – I struggle with motivation when I’m in a season of overwhelm and disappointment like that. Last year I think I made ONE blog post, and it was about feeling better about things… That intrinsically comes with springtime, and I’m aware of that.

Last year my brother and I worked on making my chicken coop better, and I ended up with 14 chickens (now 13 because I gave my rooster away). I planted a bunch, and we had an abundant spring all over Wyoming due to the unseasonably wet weather we experienced. We were very fortunate to have such lush weather while much of the rest of the country suffered through drought.

Last year I attended our local Farmer’s Market almost every week (save, I believe three in a sixteen week run) with products from my home bakery. This year, while life has different plans for me on the weekends, I plan to attend as much as possible and am feeling obligated to provide vegetables, as one of the largest local vegetable producers will be retiring this year. Inappropriately, and probably, maybe, unintentionally one of the leaders of the market laid guilt on the rest of us who aren’t vegetable producers to grow something to sell at the market. I’m struggling with not feeling OBLIGATED to fix all problems that come my way, but I do want to grow and think this is an ample opportunity. Then this weekend, my mom and I started planning and scheming and buying up plants and supplies… so… here we go!

So, what is it about homesteading that has me so enthralled? Well, for starters, it’s the idea of creating a life filled with purpose and connection. I imagine waking up to the gentle clucking of chickens outside my window, gathering fresh eggs for breakfast, and tending to my garden as the sun rises. It’s about getting back to basics, embracing the rhythms of nature, and living in harmony with the earth.

Of course, homesteading isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a journey filled with challenges, from learning how to care for animals to mastering the art of growing your own food. But therein lies the beauty of it all—the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the world around you in a profound way. That paired with the fact that my dude doesn’t really want anything to do with it so it will be, effectively a one (wo)man effort.

So, where does one even begin on this grand adventure? For me, it’s been a journey of discovery and education. I’ve devoured books, scoured websites, and soaked up every bit of knowledge I could find about homesteading. But more than that, it’s been about embracing a mindset shift—a willingness to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown. You may or may not know that I am an avid Roots and Refuge fan. I’ve been following Jessica and her family since right about the time she got seriously started. 2017 or 2018. One time she said she just decided she was going to start doing YouTube like it was her job and that has been weighing heavily on me. I believe it is time for me to take that advice.

As I take my next steps into the world of homesteading, I’m filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Sure, there will be challenges along the way, but I’m ready to tackle them head-on. Because at the end of the day, homesteading isn’t just about growing food or raising animals—it’s about creating a life that’s meaningful, fulfilling, and true to who you are.

So, here’s to the beginning of my homesteading journey—a journey of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities. And who knows? Maybe my little adventure will inspire a few of you to embark on your own homesteading journey. After all, in a world that often feels disconnected and chaotic, there’s something truly special about getting back to basics and living in harmony with the land.

xoxo
-S

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YouTube Delay

Here we go… Already with the first day back.

My scheduled YouTube video has been uploading all weekend and still hasn’t completed. I am going to take it down and re-upload. HOPEFULLY it will be out by noon. If not, I will do everything I possibly can to get up TODAY.

Thanks in advance

xoxo
-s

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Embracing the Bittersweet Symphony of Cake Decorating: A Journey Through Passion, Struggle, and Redemption

Baking isn’t just a hobby for me; it’s a deeply ingrained part of who I am. There’s a certain magic in watching flour, sugar, and eggs come together to create something extraordinary—a magic that has fueled my soul for as long as I can remember. I was able to make a decent little side hustle out of it and BakehausCo. was birthed in November of 2021. When the opportunity arose to become a cake decorator at a local store, I couldn’t resist the chance to share to grow my little business. In our small community it seemed like the perfect opportunity to build my brand and help drive traffic to a locally owned store. Little did I know, this decision would lead me down a path filled with unexpected twists and turns, testing my dedication to the craft in ways I never imagined.

The Initial Rush of Excitement: Stepping into the little deli for the first time, excitement coursed through my veins. The prospect of turning ordinary cakes into edible works of art filled me with a sense of purpose and excitement and I dreamed of every family intown having a one-of-a-kind masterpiece at the center of their birthday table. I eagerly embraced my new role, ready to unleash my creativity and leave my mark on every cake that crossed my path.

The Unforeseen Challenges: However, as the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, I encountered challenges I never anticipated. The demands of the job were relentless, leaving me with little time or energy to pursue my own baking projects; and while I initially relished the opportunity to flex my creative muscles, I soon found myself trapped in a cycle of monotony, churning out mass-produced cakes devoid of personal flair. What was once my greatest source of joy had become a source of frustration and disillusionment, leaving me questioning whether I had made the right decision.

Losing Myself in the Process: With each passing day, I felt myself losing touch with the passion that had once burned so brightly within me. The endless stream of customer requests and deadlines made me feel like a cog in a machine, rather than the artist I aspired to be. I missed the freedom to create on my own terms, to let my imagination run wild without the constraints of others’ expectations. I longed to reconnect with the joy and spontaneity that had drawn me to baking in the first place, but it seemed like an impossible dream in the face of the daily grind.

A Glimmer of Hope: Yet, amidst the chaos and disillusionment, a glimmer of hope emerged. In the quiet moments between batches of buttercream and piping bags, I found myself reconnecting with the essence of why I fell in love with baking in the first place. It wasn’t about meeting quotas or impressing others; it was about pouring my heart and soul into every cake I crafted, infusing each creation with a piece of myself. And while the road ahead seemed daunting, I knew that I couldn’t let go of my passion without a fight.

Reclaiming My Passion: And so, with renewed determination, I made a choice. I would continue to decorate cakes, but on my own terms. I would carve out space for my own creative projects, no matter how small or fleeting. I would reclaim my passion for baking, one cake at a time, refusing to let the demands of the world drown out the voice of my heart. It wouldn’t be easy, and there would undoubtedly be setbacks along the way. But as long as I stayed true to myself and remained faithful to the love that burned within me, I knew that I could overcome any obstacle that stood in my way. I had to quit working at the store. I had watched as customer after customer ordered from the store when they previously ordered from me and I was determined not be my own competition any longer.

In the tumultuous world of cake decorating, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But through the trials and tribulations, I’ve come to realize that my passion for baking is a flame that can never be extinguished. It may flicker and wane at times, but it will always burn bright within me, guiding me through even the darkest of days. And so, armed with the strength of my convictions and the love in my heart, I’m ready to embark on the next chapter of my baking journey, filled with hope, resilience, and a sprinkling of sugar-coated dreams.

xoxo
-S