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11 Years Later
As one chapter of life was coming to a close, I made a life-changing decision to pack up what I could and move from my hometown in Colorado to Nashville. I had no plan, no job, and no idea what I was doing. We had just wrapped the 10th Anniversary of The UMS, feeling both accomplished and exhausted. As we packed up what remained from that milestone, I packed up my car and what I could fit into my rented trailer and hit the road. 🛻 Little did I know then that I was embarking on an 11-year adventure that would change my life in so many meaningful ways. From…
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21 Things I Want to Do in ’21
It’s 2021 and with Covid-19 almost behind us, here are 21 things I want to do now that the pandemic is over. Listen, the pandemic was long! It’s not over, but we do finally see the light at the end of the tunnel as U.S. mask mandates are lifted and travel plans are a go. After more than a year in lockdown, I’m getting my second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine shot today. I can’t wait! I was fearful of what the rushed-to-market vaccine would do long-term and originally thought I’d be late to the vaccine game. I’ve never had a flu shot after all. But after a year of…
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Priority Is Not A Plural Noun
Listen, I get it. At the end of the year, we get so caught up with “priorities” and responsibilities that the holiday season brings… on top of our regular day-to-day tasks. Our growing to-do lists make us feel certifiably insane. Amirite? Our engines are revving so loudly that we just keep nodding and smiling through the deafening sound of our own busy-ness! Gross! So, turn down the volume and give yourself permission to read some encouragement here and just breathe. First, I want you to remember how incredible of a life you’ve had so far. I know its not perfect, and neither is mine! You’re here though, you’ve made it this far. That deserves…
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Cheers to You, 2018!
Listen, I don’t mean to brag, but 2018 was a record year for me. I settled into my new East Nashville home, traveled more than I have in the last five years combined, saw almost ALL of my family (that never happens), and was promoted to manage the customer experience for Lyft’s bikes and scooters. Oh, and just one more small thing. I got freakin’ married!! While 2018 has been a whirlwind year, I am so grateful for what’s coming next. The unknown. This time last year, I knew 2018 had a lot of excitement to come. I mean with a wedding and all, you can pretty much predict good…
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Man Crush Monday: My Husband
Well, it’s official, y’all. I am a married man. And now Joe is my forever man crush Monday. [Let’s pop some bubbs!?] Late last year, I broke the news that I was engaged to my longtime partner in crime. Since then I’ve filled the pages of Listen! It’s Vetrano with wedding tips–mostly as a reminder for me. But for those in who have found your ride-or-die, I appreciate you coming along the journey with Joe and I as we approached our big day. On May 19, 2018, Joe and I shared vows and “I dos” on a rooftop in Nashville, overlooking the downtown skyline with our family and close friends. Forever we…
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5 Things Couples Must Discuss Before Marriage
It’s almost here! Discuss Before Marriage My wedding day is just three days from today and it got me thinking, “have Joe and I had all the discussions we need to before we make the biggest decision of our lives?” It’s easy to get caught up dreaming about dancefloor playlists, tasting cakes, and the food. Food is important. But there are important –not necessarily as fun– things to discuss before marriage. So, if you too are about to take the exciting walk down the aisle, I’ve compiled a list of some topics that you should grab a bottle of wine, two glasses and cover before you say “I do.” 5 Things…
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5 Things You Can Do When You’re Engaged
Are you newly engaged? Well, welcome to the club and Mazel Tov! Being engaged is a special and unique time—and you and your future spouse deserve to celebrate! You don’t have to start planning your wedding right away. Joe and I are surpassing the two-year mark before we walk down the aisle in May. But for those who may want to start thinking about their future nuptials right away, here are a few things can (and should!) do after the proposal. 5 Things: You Can Do When You’re Engaged Call your partner your fiancé: Remember when you “made it official?” That feeling of saying “this is my boyfriend” or “this is…
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Make Moments Last Longer
As the wedding day approaches for Joe and me, we’ve had some of the most memorable moments of our relationship. And the old adage is true that “time flies when you’re having fun.” So, as we prepare for our big day and the memories that come with the planning, I’ve been trying to master some ways to make moments last longer. If you, too, want to keep the good times rolling, keep these things in mind. Make Moments Last Longer Start with a mindful breath. As you arrive, take a deep breath. In through your nose, gently pause for a few moments, and then slowly exhale through your mouth. This reduces…
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5 Things To Make 2018 Count
At the start of every new year, we’re motivated, ready to take on our resolutions to make this year better than the last. “Make 2018 count!,” I can almost hear me telling myself. But, more often than not, at least for me, those goals don’t differ from year to year. If you’re one of those overachievers that nail your resolutions year after year, stop reading and continue doing exactly what you’re doing. It’s probably working. For the rest of us, we need help; we need focus. As we dip our toe into April, there’s a good chance those “resolutions” we made in January are likely already a thing of the…
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5 Cheap Date Ideas
I get it — after a long week of deadlines, stress, and working hard for the money, spending time with your partner or friends feels long overdue. While dinner and drinks is a popular and easy solution to the weekday blues, it’s also the most expensive. Your relationships don’t cost a thing, so neither should your time spent on them. So ditch the “tradish” and check out these cheap date ideas that will keep your relationships as rock-solid as your bank account. Cheap Date Ideas 1. Become a tourist and explore your city Although you’re familiar with your surroundings, it’s surprising what you can find when you see your hometown in…
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Starting a New Chapter: 3 Ways to Follow Through
When you think back, your family might have started a few new chapters already over the years. Getting married, having your first child, starting a new job, finally getting that promotion – and, of course, moving to a new home. All of these transitions can be really challenging and some might be a bit tougher than others; when you know what you’re up against, however, and come prepared, you might find that the change is actually welcome. Whatever chapter you’re starting in your life, make sure that you’ve prepared yourself into a state of mind that can happily accept all of the turbulence that is to come. Here is a…
