Furnishing a house can be really (really) expensive...but it doesn't have to be. Do you know the secret to finding amazing deals on big things like furniture and mattresses? It's shopping LOCAL. Yep, in the age of Amazon I am actually advising you to get off your screens and look in your own city. You'll find better prices on better stuff, plus no shipping fees. The first category that comes to mind is thrifting (including thrift stores, estate sales, garage sales, and Craigslist). It can be hit or miss, but if you have patience and persistence, you can find incredible deals on unique, high quality used pieces. But there's another category that's perfect for when you want something new (after all, things like mattresses and sofas are a little gross to buy on Craigslist). This type of store is also super convenient when you need to furnish a whole house, and you don't have the time to keep checking back at various thrift stores.

What am I talking about? Local discount stores! In Spokane, our best-kept secret is Wallaroo's Furniture & Mattresses. You know, that bright turquoise building on the corner of Division and Cataldo, just north of downtown? The next time you drive by, you should stop in! By shopping there, you'll be supporting a local, family-owned small business in our community. And just as importantly, you'll get the BEST deals on high-end furniture and name-brand mattresses--better than at an online retailer or big box store.

I got to meet with the owners, Nathan and Bailee, and was so impressed when I learned their story! Wallaroo's started in 2014 out of Nathan's garage. He was an accounting student at Gonzaga, looking to pay his way through college, so he began flipping furniture found on Craigslist and at local auctions. Soon, he also started purchasing high-end overstock from companies like Macy's. Then he added factory-direct mattresses from Serta and Simmons. Before long, he had so much demand that he decided to unenroll from his Master's program and go all-in. He opened his first storefront in 2015, called Spokane Overstock.

In 2016, he started dating Bailee, who quickly got involved with the business. She told me. "I was really inspired by Nathan's ambitions and what he had made already. He was only 22 when I met him! I think I fell in love with his chutzpah and confidence and business acumen, which is pretty much at the core of who he is." Nathan and Bailee opened the first Wallaroo's store in 2018. Today, they have a total of six stores throughout Spokane, Spokane Valley, Couer d'Alene, Boise, and Missoula!

They also told me how they're able to get better prices than their competitors. First of all, Wallaroo's buys directly from the warehouse in bulk, instead of placing specific product orders. They get the previous year's models, scratch and dent items, and overstock unsold by the big retailers...whatever is on the truck. Then they negotiate additional discounts for volume and cash payment. They don't spend a lot of money on remodeling their stores (paint can do a lot), and they don't work with any middlemen, which allows them to keep prices super low.

We went in for a mattress and (after laying on a bunch) decided on the Serta iComfort memory foam mattress. It would normally retail for $3500 but Wallaroo's had it for $1050 (in a king!).

Here it is in our room!! After sleeping on this mattress for over a month, we can confidently attest that it is suuuper comfy and we looove it.

But the other great thing about shopping local? You don't have to listen to my opinion. You actually get to test out different options in person and decide for yourself. With online-only retailers, you have to rely on pictures and reviews, which aren't that helpful for something like a mattress (everyone's personal preference is different). By going into a local store, you can compare different mattresses in person and choose what feels comfortable to you.

Have I convinced you that shopping local really is the secret to finding deals on furniture and mattresses? If you live in Spokane, be sure to check out Wallaroo's and let me know what you think!

This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own.

There's something about having kids that makes you want to get your financial ducks in a row (or at least, that's how it worked for us). Before we had babies, we kept track of our spending but we weren't very intentional about it. We had plenty of money flowing in: we were both working good jobs and paying cheap rent for the basement unit of a duplex. Buying coffee every day, eating out for lunch, grocery shopping at the most convenient store even though it was way more expensive...we didn't give it a second thought. Then we had Ian. Before he was born, I really wasn't sure if I would continue working or quit my job. But after he was born prematurely and spent his first month in the NICU, I just couldn't imagine leaving him. Honestly, I think I would have wanted to stay home either way, but his tiny vulnerability gave me the push I needed to make that choice decisively. So we found ourselves in a different financial position. One income instead of two, in a high cost of living area, renting a basement that we didn't want to raise a baby in. With the added expenses of diapers, baby gear, and hospital bills, plus saving for future expenses like college. All of a sudden, we really needed a plan for our financial future. The irony is that becoming parents meant we had less money to work with...but it also gave us the motivation to take control of that money. We're certainly not experts by any means, but here is what I recommend.

Start With a Clear Overview

You can’t figure out where you’re going until you know where you are. So the very first step is to get a clear overview of your current financial situation. Take a good hard look at the full picture, together. If you have a lot of debt or your spending is out of control, this might not be very comfortable, but it is so important. If you have your head buried in the sand, you can't see the way forward. 

Define a Budget

Setting a budget is the next essential step. Tell your money where to go, rather than wondering where it went. You're in charge. If your goal is amp up your savings, then don't just see what's left at the end of the month. Start with how much you want to save, then work out the rest of your budget from there. Consider each line item intentionally instead of assuming it needs to be there. Can you cut out subscriptions? Do you actually use that gym membership? Do you really need to spend money on clothes every month? Make sure your money allocation actually matches your goals.

Save an Emergency Fund

You never know what’s going to happen in this world, and there will inevitably be months where things don't go according to your budgeted plan. Those surprise expenses (hospital bills, traffic tickets, broken appliances, and the like) can put us into financial difficulties if we don't have sufficient money set aside to handle them. That's why it's so important to build up an emergency fund of at least $1000. It's not a fun reason to save for, but you will be grateful for your efforts when the money is required. 

Read Up On Good Habits

One of the most frustrating things about the education system is that it doesn’t do a good job of teaching you about money. In fact, most schools don't teach kids anything about money management or good money habits. Luckily, there is a wealth of knowledge (literally) in books and blogs. The time you spend reading these kind of materials can pay off profoundly in your financial life. A few books that have helped me with the principles are The Richest Man in Babylon and Rich Dad, Poor Dad. 

Get On the Same Page 

If you and your partner have a completely different outlook when it comes to finances, you won't be able to make much progress toward your goals. Money, after all, is the number one cause of arguments for couples. This is why it's so important to communicate and get on the same page about your financial priorities. Ultimately, you both want your family to be healthy, happy, and prosperous, right?

Avoid Lifestyle Inflation

Getting a raise doesn't automatically mean your money situation is better. You have to avoid the trap of lifestyle inflation: boosting your lifestyle in accordance with how much you take home. You could earn a high salary, but if you use that as an excuse to get a bigger house, a nicer car, fancy clothes, expensive date nights, and the best private schools...then you could still be living paycheck-to-paycheck.  There's always something extra you could spend your money on. If you add new "necessities" every time you get a raise, or upgrade your lifestyle because you "deserve" it, then increasing your income will have limited impact on your actual money situation.

Learn How to Invest

Money management is not just about keeping your purse-strings closed; it's just as much about spending in the right places. Investing in your future is a crucial step, whether you're buying mutual funds, signing up for a course that would lead to a better-paying job, or buying a house. Know the difference between good debt and bad debt. If it’s something that will eventually bring more money into your world, then it’s probably good debt. If you’re spending on a temporary indulgence, then it’ll be bad debt.

Consider the Future of Your Job

Obviously your job is an important part of your financial picture, so make sure to choose a career in a field where job growth is expected. If you're concerned about the future of your current job, it might be time to consider a career switch. For example, a person who can deliver insights into the world of big data will find plenty of employment options. If that field sounds interesting to you, then look at studying for an online masters in business analytics. It’s a smart way to ensure that your family’s finances are prosperous in the future. 

Accumulate True Assets

An asset is something that puts money in your pockets, a liability is something that takes money out. Most people think their house is their biggest asset, when in fact it's probably a liability. If you're serious about improving your finances, look at ways to turn liabilities into true assets. With your house, can you rent it out on Airbnb when you go on vacation? Or can you sell your big house and get a duplex instead? With a car, can you deliver for Doordash or Instacart as a side hustle? These ideas won't be for everyone, but if you're willing to sacrifice a little, they can accelerate your savings rate significantly.

Work with Experts 

I believe in taking control of your own finances, and there's a lot you can do yourself to create a healthy financial future. But realistically, most of us can’t do everything. Some money matters are complicated and require more advanced skills to manage. If you have a long list of responsibilities (as all parents do), then it’s unlikely that you’ll have the time to figure everything out on your own. When it comes to your long-term financial planning, look at working with experts like an accountant for taxes and a lawyer for your will. They’ll have plenty of experience and knowledge, and can help you make the best decisions. Experts aren’t only for when you are trying to save. If you’ve got yourself in a bit of financial trouble, there is advice to help you curb bad habits, or help when you are looking to wipe the slate clean. While bankruptcy isn’t an ideal option for many, experts can help you choose something like a consumer proposal instead, which works to help you keep your assets. Experts will always show you the best way. We can think that we are too proud to ask for help, but you need to know when you can’t do it by yourself. 

Teach Your Kids Good Habits

You and your partner are going to be the main players when it comes to securing your family’s financial future. However, it’s important to also teach good habits to your kids as well. After all, there will come a time when they’ll have to navigate the murky world of money all on their own. You can ensure that they’re well-prepared for this by teaching them good habits from an early age. If they know how to budget and manage their money, then they’ll be set up for a responsible financial life when they’re adults. This is something I've been considering a lot as our kids are getting older...how will we teach them about money? And when should we start those lessons?

Review and Update 

Finally, remember that your financial situation can’t run on autopilot. It needs to be actively managed as the years go by, and especially as and when things change. Be sure to periodically review and update your financial practices. That way, you’ll be highly unlikely to fall into any errors.

This post is sponsored by Objective. All opinions are my own.

In 2020, I am making an effort to do better with self-care. I'm not talking about getting manicures or taking bubble baths (although those sound nice), but basic things to literally take care of my body and health. Prioritizing exercise even if there's a pile of laundry to fold. Taking a freaking shower. Moisturizing. Eating more mindfully instead of shoving junk food in my mouth all day. Taking the steps to make sure I get enough sleep (no small feat, with a newborn that's waking up multiple times at night). Parents of little kids, I know you feel me! We're so busy taking care of our kids...changing their diapers, getting them dressed, making them food, giving them baths...that we totally forget to take care of ourselves. But that is unsustainable! If we're totally drained and exhausted, we won't have the energy or patience to be the best parents for our kids. On the other hand, if we can find a way to take care of our needs first, we'll be in a much better place, physically and mentally, to handle whatever the day throws our way. It's like how flight attendants tell you to put on your oxygen mask first before helping with others. Or to quote another example I like, "you can't pour from an empty cup."

I really believe that. When I'm energized and filled up myself, then I have something to pour out on my kids. I'll actually sit down and do crafts and activities with them or take them on an outing. I'll have the capacity for disciplining them calmly. The day will be much more peaceful and fun. If I'm barely hanging on by a thread, then I can't handle much more than having them play by themselves at home. I'm more likely to yell at them when they (inevitably) fight and make messes. And there's a good chance I'll put on a show for them to get through the day.

I'm finally starting to recognize that sacrificing myself for the sake of my kids isn't actually doing them any favors. In fact, I'm a better mom if I take care of myself first. So when Objective, a wellness brand, reached out to me about trying out some of their science-backed supplements, I was definitely interested. I immediately loved their view of wellness and supplements. Instead of trying to "kitchen sink" their formulas into a one-pill wonder, they recognize that wellness looks different for everyone. They focus on targeted solutions, using only the ingredients with the best research, at the studied forms and doses for the best results. Better sleep, less wrinkles, greater focus, more energy? Whatever your objective is, they're on it. All of their products are rooted in nature, backed by peer-reviewed clinical studies, and manufactured in the U.S. And they're intentional about the form their supplements come in, depending on the purpose. Sometimes that means a pill, sometimes it's a powder to add to your coffee, and sometimes a chocolate mint to help you sleep. Why? Because filling your bladder with a glass of water to take a pill right before bed doesn't make a lot of sense. Don't you love that level of thoughtfulness?!

I'm interested in a bunch of their supplements, but the first one that caught my eye was Fast Asleep, their sleep chocolate. Since becoming a mom, there is nothing (nothing!) sweeter than a good night of sleep. Even though I'll still be waking up in the middle of the night to feed Audrey, I figured I should do what I can to wind down quickly and get as much sleep as possible.

I just started taking Fast Asleep and so far, I love it! It's a non-habit forming sleep support made with natural sleep aids (GABA and saffron)...and instead of a pill, it comes in the form of a delicious chocolate mint! It's formulated to calm the thoughts racing through your head at night, allowing you to fall asleep quickly, sleep deeply all through the night, and wake up feeling refreshed. Why saffron instead of melatonin? Many people experience too-intense dreams or even night terrors with melatonin, whereas saffron is known to promote better quality sleep and reduce anxiety and stress.

But if doesn't work for you? Objective has a promise. They understand that everybody's different. Every body is different. It's possible that what works wonders for your best friend might not do a thing for you. So hopefully you'll love the results of their supplements, but if something doesn't work for you, Objective will refund your money! I love that they stand behind their products like that. And if that wasn't enough to make you want to try them out, they're also offering you guys 20% off and free shipping on your first order (use code: MYOBJECTIVE)

Lastly, keep an eye out for another post on Instagram soon...it just miiight be giveaway!

This is a collaborative post. All opinions are my own.

I want to try talking about some other topics this year beyond home decor. Maybe a little more parenting, finances, and real life stuff sprinkled in. Today, I've got marriage on the brain. Ben and I are in our early thirties, so I recognize that in the grand scheme of things, we're not that old or wise. But we've been together 14 years (whaaat), married for almost 10, and have three kids. Now, I'm not saying we're very qualified to give advice (we're mostly just winging it ourselves), but the other day, we started talking about ourselves pre-kids. Back when we were young, newly married, fresh out of college, and just getting started in our adult lives. I started thinking, What advice would we give to our younger selves, if we could go back in time?  Here are some things that came to mind, in no particular order. What advice would you add?

1. Excitement takes effort.

Marriage is not fireworks when you kiss and butterflies in your stomach and all those giddy new-relationship feelings.

If you're expecting the "falling-in-love" stage to last forever, you might get disappointed or think something is wrong when you realize it's not that exciting anymore. After all, this is your soulmate. Being meant for each other means the passion and excitement should be effortless, right? Wrong.

It's totally normal for your lives to get into a routine. After awhile, the excitement of being married will fade and it’s up to both of you to keep things fresh. Maybe that means traveling somewhere new together, or planning a date night, or doing something thoughtful to surprise your spouse.

Look for ways to create excitement and plan things to look forward to together.

2. Marriage means being known.

When you're dating, you naturally try to show your partner the best of you. But when you're married, your partner will see allll of you. They'll see you when you're happy, funny, loving, patient and kind. When you're dressed nicely with your hair done and your teeth brushed. But they'll also see you when you're angry, jealous, sad, discouraged, stubborn, and downright mean. When you lose your temper over something stupid. When you have puffy eyes and snot running down your face from crying. When you have morning breath and hairy legs and greasy hair. They will see you at your ugliest, most vulnerable and unfiltered self.

But here's the really beautiful thing. They will love you through all of that.

There is something so freeing about showing someone your true self, venting your darkest thoughts, exposing your deepest hopes, revealing your insecurities and the parts of you that you keep hidden from everyone else...and being received, known and loved.

So don't be afraid to let each other in. Don't try to keep up a perfect front, because that's exhausting and impossible anyways.

3. It's okay to sleep on it.

I once heard the saying "don't let the sun set on your anger" and I thought that meant, if we were having an argument at night, we had to hash it out and get it all resolved before we went to bed. We'd be tired and irritable, but we'd keep trying to talk it out. Needless to say, this led to a lot of unnecessary frustration.

Instead, we've learned that it's okay to say, "I love you, let's talk more in the morning." We might still disagree, but that's okay. When we're tired and already in a bad mood, there's no point in staying up to figure it out (it's not going to work anyways). It's much better to give each other a hug, go to bed, and get some sleep. In the light of morning, what seemed so important the night before might not be a big deal at all. Or maybe it still is. Either way, a fresh perspective and a good night's sleep will help.

4. Savor each stage of life.

There are wonderful things and irritating things about every single stage of life. Don't keep wishing for what's next. Live in the present and enjoy what's good about exactly where you are.

If you're not married yet, enjoy a bed all to yourself without fighting over the sheets. You can control mattress firmness and hear zero complaints. Got a sink full of dishes? Who says they need to be done now? These are little freedoms you can enjoy by being alone.

If you're married without kids, don't rush that stage of life either. Travel to places that would be hard to bring kids to, go on epic hikes, hang out with friends late at night, and go to movies in theater...when you have little kids, you will miss those things!

5. Nothing is ever perfect.

Even in marriage. Just as things weren’t perfect when you were younger, married life won’t be either. Break the notion that marriage is one big fairytale where everyone lives happily ever after...it’s not. You’ll disagree on house chores, finances, parenting decisions, and so many more things.

I think couples can get concerned and discouraged when their marriage does not seem perfect as they had expected. It's not going to be romantic all the time. Marriage is normal everyday life, with all of its ups and downs. Don’t worry. You can have bad days and still have a great marriage.