About Me

Hey there! I’m Ali!

Welcome to my corner of the internet! Here, we talk all things mental health, recovery, emotional wellness, and mindfulness, without any intimidating jargon or "perfect life" nonsense. And now, I’m also sharing something new: my journey as an author of children’s books, starting with Princess Fancy Pants!

I started this blog for folks like you and me—people who could use a little more peace, positivity, and emotional resilience. Whether you’re totally new to mindfulness, wrestling with anxiety, or just looking for a way to find balance in a hectic world, I’m here to share tips, stories, and practices that actually work.

But, here’s the twist: when I’m not blogging about mindfulness and mental wellness, I’m telling fun, silly stories for kids. My first book, Princess Fancy Pants, is all about a spunky little girl named Gabby, her crazy adventures, and the importance of play, family, and being in the moment. It’s been such a joy to write for young readers, and I’m already working on more in the series!

My Background (Yep, I’m Qualified to Talk About This Stuff)

I have a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Psychology, a Master’s in Criminal Justice (focusing on victimology), and a Master’s in Social Work. So, I know a thing or two about human behavior, trauma, and resilience. But beyond the degrees and the fancy titles, I’ve also been through the wringer myself. Let’s just say I know burnout on a first-name basis, and anxiety? It’s been my shadow for years.

My Philosophy on Mental Wellness

For me, mental wellness is an ongoing journey—there’s no “done” or “perfect.” Instead, I believe in the power of small, daily practices. Tiny moments of self-care and kindness can make a world of difference over time. Self-compassion is another biggie for me; we’re often our own worst critics, and I’m here to help us all cut ourselves some slack.

What You’ll Find Here

Expect mindfulness tips you can actually use, meditative practices that don’t require a mountain retreat, open discussions about mental health challenges, and practical self-care strategies that fit into real life. Think of it as a space to learn, grow, and just… breathe.

And now, on top of all that, you’ll also find stories that promote fun and imagination for kids—because mental wellness starts early, and play is a key ingredient in building emotional resilience. My book Princess Fancy Pants is all about a little girl who teaches her family to laugh, be creative, and embrace the present moment. I hope it encourages kids (and their families!) to find joy in the small things, just like we talk about here on the blog.

Why I Do This

I do this, because mental health is too important to ignore, and you don’t have to go it alone. I’ve been there—the exhaustion, the anxiety, the feeling like you’re always “just trying to keep up.” This blog is a space for real talk, growth, and hopefully a few laughs along the way. And now, as an author, I’m thrilled to add a new layer to this journey. One that encourages the next generation to prioritize joy, play, and presence through stories that spark imagination and connection.

Let’s Connect!

I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to leave comments, share your thoughts, or follow along on social media. This is as much your space as it is mine. Let’s build a community that lifts each other up, one day at a time.

So, grab a cup of coffee...or three, settle in, and let’s make our way toward wellness, one small step (or story) at a time.