Anyone else addicted to Fixer Upper? (Felt like all of America just raised their hand) If it’s programmed, it’s on my TV. I rarely watch TV, but that’s one of those feel good shows that I just don’t mind binge watching on Saturday morning, with my cup of coffee and my laptop. I should probably be watching it for design takeaways and property ideas, but darn it, it just always makes me want to move to Texas more than anything else. It could also be the sound of money being siphoned from my account as I breathe, living here in California.

When the opportunity came about to travel to Texas for a wedding, I quickly googled the distance from Austin, Texas to Waco, Texas. 93 minutes. That basically equals “road trip worthy.” The only small hurdle? We landed on Friday at midnight (technically Saturday), the wedding was Saturday about an hour northwest of Austin. Magnolia was 90 minutes north east of the wedding location, annnnd it was closed on Sunday, our only “free” day. Decisions, decisions. TIP: Be thankful for spontaneous friends. Adventurous friends. Friends who, unlike yourself, don’t have to live by a schedule or time frame. I had one of these friends with me and all I needed to hear was her say “how about we forego our sleep, get up early, drive to Magnolia, then head to the wedding from there?” DONE. I should quickly skip ahead and let you know that we got ready for the wedding in the car in the corner of a little farm. Little peep show for the horses and the mini pony that paced in front of our car, but this was the sacrifice we made for a few hours at Magnolia.

So off we go that morning, Waco bound. First – and hopefully last – experience driving through a good ol’ Texas thunderstorm. Scariest drive of my life. And I was the passenger. Two hours later, we’re in Waco, turning into Magnolia. Puddles of rain on the ground and pouring from the sky, yet not a care in the world. Both in our car and among the hundreds of people outside. This was Magnolia.

As I made my way indoors, I did a quick panoramic scan and caught a flashback of the Silos episode and the bakery remodel. And now, I was here. We walked through every square inch of that place, rain soaked and all, bought more than our fair share of home decor, and took home so many baked goods from the bakery that each one of us had a carry on devoted to lugging around these delectable treats. (Once the cop outside the gates warned us about the cinnamon rolls, it was a wrap!)

I was sad as we drove away. I did not want to leave, but I mean, we did have a wedding to attend in 2 hours! I couldn’t help but question why I was so connected to this place after such a short window of time. What was it about the Silos that confirmed a need to return as quickly as possible? I summed up my short visit with 5 (self-care) tips we’re all learning from our friends, Chip & Jo:

1. Dream big, but grow slow.

Did you know you’re supposed to allocate at least 15 minutes of your day to simply daydream? We were meant to dream. The dreams God continues to lay on your heart are likely aligned with your gifts, your purpose…

2. Know your gifts. And stick to them.

There’s a reason why Chip handles the carpentry and Jo, the decor. They know their gifts. They stay in their own lane and do what they do best. Know your gifts. If you don’t know them, learn them!

3. Laugh. Often.

Get a Chip in your life. And if you are the Chip in someone’s life, don’t change. We need a few more chuckles each day.

4. Remember your story.

Your why. Your beginning. Do you think they ever go back and rewatch the Silos episode or the bakery remodel? Celebrate the victories, no matter how big or how small. They are in the DNA of your story.

5. Honor yourself first.

But first, you.

There they are – 5 reasons why America adores this couple and literally anything they touch. I’m guilty too, friends. Needless to say, but if you haven’t been to Magnolia yet, GO. Make it a priority! I’ll definitely be making another trip so if you want to tag along, let’s make it happen!