A new look, with an introduction
Come take a peek and say hi!
Like a chaotic cupboard or a nightstand riddled with trinkets, some things just need a refresh. In this case, C’est Mackenzie. I was feeling a bit bored with this space for a few different reasons, so I did what any restless, creative mind would do and took myself over to Pinterest for some good, old-fashioned mood board mining.
Inspired by the charming bookshops of Europe, conversations on a recent read at an outdoor cafe, and my love for the light, colors, and angles of Paris, I pulled together this new look - and reader? I love it. It ticks all the boxes for me, and I hope it feels refreshing for you, as well.
Whether you’re a regular peruser or just popped in for a browse, welcome. Like the name of this publication suggests, I’m Mackenzie - a native Texan who loves a good book, a meal (or sweet treat) that makes me do a lil’ shimmy, and putting pen to paper. I’ve been sharing my planners and journals on the internet since 2018 when I was a young graduate student looking for a creative outlet. These days, I’ve found myself also sharing more about the little things - books, baking, languages, art, and entertainment - that add a distinct richness to life.
When I’m not typing away at my desk, I’m working as a geospatial data scientist, building Legos with my husband under the soft glow of a Miyazaki film, and keeping our five furry critters (a golden retriever and four cats) out of trouble. You can also find me writing at Magic, Noted.
If you ever want to dive into what makes me tick (or run for the hills), I’m a Cancer sun, Virgo moon, and Scorpio rising.
It’s taken me a few years to admit this, but I love tea more than coffee. I always start my day with a cup of jo, but my afternoons and evenings are reserved for a warm cuppa of whichever tea I’m currently craving. Right now, it’s the Queen’s Blend and Bookshop Blend from Plum Deluxe.
I’m tall (approximately 5’11”), and it’s one of my favorite things about myself.
Baking and candle-making are two of my favorite hobbies. Both involve a keen attention to detail and following instructions to a tee, which are two things I’m exceptionally good at (maybe almost to a fault). The process can be so challenging and fun, and the rewards are always a treat for the senses.
As mentioned above, I’m at the mercy of a golden retriever, Honey, and four cats, Tinley, Opal, Tsuki, and Toulouse (collectively nicknamed “the TOTTs”). The first two are female and from the same litter, and the last two are male and from the same litter - all of which were adopted as kittens from my Oma’s farm. The boys are four years younger than their sisters, of which we are constantly reminded when they use the house like a Formula 1 racetrack in the wee hours of the morning. I grew up surrounded by animals, and I firmly believe that a house is not a home without an animal companion (or five).
To the utter dismay of my dad, I’m not much of a breakfast person. He lives for a hot breakfast, but I’m perfectly fine with a cup or two of coffee.
Things I own entirely too much of but am wholly content with: tote bags, washi tape, nail polish, crewneck sweatshirts, notebooks, birthday cards from years past, fortune cookie fortunes, art waiting to be framed, and drinking vessels.
Not to be that water sign, but I’m equally terrified and in awe of the ocean. If you were to ask me where I best see myself, I’d say a little seaside town with lots of stairs, rocky beaches with noisy gulls overhead, and quaint cafes. If you’re aware of any that fit that description, be sure to let me know.
No matter where or when, I find that museums, bookstores, galleries, bakeries, and art supply stores feel like a warm hug.
I’m a geographer, but I haven’t left the country in 15 years. I visited Mexico, Belize, and Australia as a teenager, and I’m hoping to add more stamps to my passport (after I apply for a new one) in the next few years. My top three picks: Scotland, Japan, and France.
Tennis is my favorite sport to both watch and play. My dad played competitively throughout my childhood, and I picked up the game as a youngster after being gifted my first racquet - a blue and yellow Wilson that commemorated the Williams sisters. I reached out to a local club last week to inquire about private lessons, so we’ll see where that goes!
Well, I think that’s enough about me. Tell me - do we have anything in common? I’d love to know who’s on the other side of the screen, so feel free to introduce yourself - your hobbies, a fun fact, your go-to coffee or tea order - in the comments below.
Platforms I also frequent: Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, StoryGraph, and Goodreads
Adore the rebrand, and loved getting to learn more tidbits about you!!
- I had no idea you were a geospatial data scientist 🤯 so cool!!
- Tea is my everything. I’ve never liked coffee (taste or smell) & have only recently gotten *slightly* more adventurous with drinks, but the cozy atmosphere and warmth has me hooked. Not to mention all of the delicious and incredibly marketed teas out in the world!
- I adore both dogs and cats! We have and interact more with dogs now, but cats were my first pets growing up so I will always adore them. Hope to get one one day!
- I’ll forgive you for not being a breakfast person.
- literal same re: owning too much of tote bags, nail polish, crewneck sweatshirts, notebooks, birthday cards from years past, art waiting to be framed, and drinking vessels