a North Dakotan girl through and through, wife, mother and die hard Catholic.

Tips for Secondhand Success There’s something special about finding a hidden treasure among the dusty shelves of a thrift store—especially when it fits your style, your values, and your budget. Whether you thrift for the vintage charm, the sustainability, or the thrill of the hunt, having a plan in place makes all the difference. Here […]

As mothers, our days are often full of quick errands, park trips, library visits, or a slow afternoon walk with our little ones in tow. These moments are often so sweet and shareable, and it can be tempting to post them right away—especially when we’re proud of how brave or joyful our children are, or […]

Since about midway through Mason’s medical schooling, he and I started going on consistent date nights every month. At the time, we simply didn’t have the means especially in terms of community support—to find a sitter when we lived in Idaho. However, I’ve since learned that a date night doesn’t always have to be fancy […]

1. Invest in a few timeless, high-quality basics You don’t need an entirely new wardrobe. A few well-made pieces—think a soft midi dress, a pair of stretchy jeans, a neutral knit top, and a bump-friendly maxi or midi—can be mixed and matched with layers you already own. Prioritize comfort and stretch, but look for classic […]

You might be thinking what is the Merck estate? Cue a little drum roll please….thank you! The Merck Estate. A creative space allowing me to share the things I love with all of you while also learning new crafts along the way right there with you. From tips and tricks, inspiration, recipes, products I love, […]

Today, I bring to you The Expectant Mother Birth Plan! What a labor of love it was to curate this template for you, mothers! I am a firm believer that knowledge is power when it comes to your birth space, regardless of where you choose to do so! I desire for mothers to have knowledge […]

This is one of the most vulnerable blog posts I believe I will ever do. Letting others into your grief is a difficult thing to do no matter the amount and that “letting in” looks different for each person for what the Lord is nudging them to share. Whether that is in a small capacity […]

I don’t think I’d do George’s birth story justice if I didn’t talk about the months and weeks leading up to his birth. A few key aspects, if you will. I first have to accredit his birth to Our Lord + the intercession of Our Blessed Mother who carried me through my pregnancy, labor, and […]

Well my friends I’d like to introduce you to someone very extra special around here… Our third son, George Joseph Merck. Although Fulton John + Peter Daniel’s namesakes are something oh so special to us as we purposefully + intentionally prayed for their names, our little George Joseph’s name has a little extra personal meaning […]

AHHH! I am so excited to finally get this guide to you fingertips! Hours of planning, designing + curating has come to fruit! Something that was difficult to navigate with Fulton as our first was the ways I needed support during this new season of life for the first time + then again with having […]