Haley McManigal
Hi there, I’m Haley, a middle-aged-momma to Lukas, Laney, and wife to Dan. We live in northeast Knoxville with our boston terrier Ali and cat Maxi. I was born and raised in east Tennessee and I love Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains so much, I can’t imagine living anywhere else! I am happiest when I’m reading, writing, exploring, and making things. When I’m not here, you’ll find me sharing my thoughts about creativity and facing fear on my blog.
There’s No Shame In Being Shy
I was painfully shy growing up, so shy that it made life difficult. And on top of being shy and struggling to connect with others, was the SHAME that I carried with me because...
Forty and Pregnant
Today is my 40th birthday. But there will be no big party and no wild celebration -- not even a single margarita (my favorite) will be had. Instead, you’ll find me on my porch...
My Quarantine Baking Addiction
While staying safe at home during quarantine, I've been trying to engage in activities that make me feel somewhat normal. One of these activities is baking. Baking has always been a calming, soothing, and...
What Will This Kid Say Next? Funny Quotes From My Son’s 3rd Year
My son turned three this week, and I can’t help but reminisce over the past year. He has grown and matured so much, and has started to become his own little person. He keeps...
How to Build a Train Cake
My son has been asking me if we can “build" a cake all week. When I asked him what kind of cake he wanted to build, he said “Ummmm…a TRAIN cake!”
Since there’s pretty much...
Learning to Let Go
I’ve been going to dance fitness classes for about a year now. I don’t go regularly, sometimes a few times a week, sometimes only once or twice a month. But I absolutely love this...
Honoring The Loved Ones We’ve Lost During The Holidays
My Thanksgiving table will have two more empty chairs this year. My Christmas festivities will never again include my Dad reading the Christmas story from his bible, turning paper-thin pages, worn from earnest study....