jake peralta from brooklyn 99 looking upset with bird feathers flying around

Schemes! Schemes! Schemes!

When Dan and I watch Brooklyn 99 (which we do rather frequently), I am reminded each episode that I am a combination of Amy, Jake, and Hitchcock. For those who don’t know, Hitchcock is a pervert who sexually harasses everyone. Amy is a type-A uptight personality who seeks validation from superiors. And Jake, dear, sweet Jake, is a well-meaning goofball who is always getting everyone … Continue reading Schemes! Schemes! Schemes!

neon frozen custard sign

The Captain’s Quiz 8: Summer Side Up

IT IS TIME FOR ANOTHER CAPTAIN’S QUIZ! *Cue the Hallelujah chorus* As the reigning champion of Paul’s Captain’s Quizzes, there was no way I wasn’t jumping at this opportunity to compete again. As per usual, Paul delivered with some fun questions! Who knows what he’s looking for in the answers? Only he does! Who will win? Only one way to find out… 1. Question: You … Continue reading The Captain’s Quiz 8: Summer Side Up

paper that says "balance" and "burnout" with checkboxes and a pen

Don’t Be an Overachiever

“For the sake of overdelivering-” my boss started. “Okay, I’m going to have to stop you right there,” I interrupted her while shaking my head emphatically. “I’m allergic to overdelivering.” My name is Renata Leo and I am a reformed overachiever. In my young life, I was constantly overachieving. I couldn’t settle for B’s. If I didn’t think I could win something, I didn’t play. … Continue reading Don’t Be an Overachiever

4 free blue topaz gemstones

Blogiversary 4: The Bleu Topaz Anniversary

Another year, another blogiversary where I don’t know what to write about! As per usual, I tapped Editor Josh for ideas. As per usual, this tapping happened two evenings before I actually needed to write this post. Monday marked 4 years that I’ve been doing this blog, and it is very interesting for me to sit back and look at all of the ups and … Continue reading Blogiversary 4: The Bleu Topaz Anniversary

journal that says "you can do hard things" on a wood background

Well, I Didn’t PLAN for That…

I love planners.  Notebooks and planners are like my kryptonite. Every time I walk into a store with decorative journals and planners, I stare at them for a long time, caress them, and then eventually guilt Dan into buying me (at least) one. Ever since I was a child who enjoyed writing, I was drawn to certain notebooks, and I just had to have them, … Continue reading Well, I Didn’t PLAN for That…