
Certainty and Curiosity – A Calming Combo
Certainty and curiosity are quite a powerful and paradoxical pair of emotions. The older I get, the more I realize how potent the embodiment of
Certainty and curiosity are quite a powerful and paradoxical pair of emotions. The older I get, the more I realize how potent the embodiment of
Summary In this 26 minute episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversation Show, host Sara engages with Lynnsie and Alicia from the Ozark Food Pantry to discuss
Summary In this 22 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara welcomes Alicia Vazquez, a dynamic figure in the Festus community, to discuss her multifaceted
Below you can access the Podcast Player to listen to episodes as they are dropped. You can also find these episodes on your favorite podcast
Summary In this 32 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Luke Tetrault from Taytro’s, Petit Paree, and The Contrarian. They discuss local
Summary In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Lynnsie Kerperien from Custom Insurance to discuss the importance of tailored
Summary In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Kami Kimes about her journey and the importance of community connection, particularly
Learn more about the recent: Women Empowering Women Event – BUSINESS WOMEN’S GROUP OF JEFFERSON COUNTY on: ~ Thursday, January 30, 2025 ~ ** This
✨Are you someone who likes to be “in-the-know” and included? ✨Do you love hearing insider-information first? ✨Do you become energized when you are around other
In mid-December, many of us are feeling a bit overwhelmed. Bustling to-do, to-buy, to-get, to-make, to-wrap lists seem never ending. It is a bittersweet and
A Conversation with Courtney on Community Theatre: We had SO much to talk about, we had to break this podcast episode into TWO Parts! SOO fun!
Within the busyness of the holiday season, it can sometimes be difficult to connect. Perhaps music can help? “Music at its core is a way
May I shine the SPOTLIGHT on the BEST, most fun and creative community nonprofit organization: Spotlight Community Theatre. Am I biased about this group of
Shining the light on All For Family, Keeping Families Connected, One Visit at a Time: Learn more about the impactful local nonprofit organization, All For
Enjoy listening to, and watching, this 20-minute MyFESTUS.com Conversations Episode: First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with
This time of year, with the holiday season upon us, it can bring up many conflicting feelings, personal to each of us… …excitement, stress, optimism,
Thank you to Mary Catherine Baragary (MCB) for being my guest as a phenomenal presenter at our local Twin City Area Optimist Club at Taytro’s
A surprise tribute to the compassionate Carmelita Davidson! Since I have been intentional about having conversations with local leaders, one name kept coming up over
Ozark Food Pantry: It is Our Job to Feed People We provide healthy nutritious food & necessities to those in need who cannot afford them.
MY SHARE: Being a transplant to Festus, Missouri, I was craving the information to learn about the people and places to explore within this area.
In this amusing, yet educational, 19-minute interview episode, local residents and leaders, Donna Litton and Ben Brown, join me for a fun conversation. Learn about
If you are trying to figure out what to do tonight, or this weekend, this is an itty-bitty, non-paid endorsement inviting you to figure out
In this vulnerable episode, local resident, Nicole Tucker Ingram, shares a tender glimpse through her journey of finding her own voice as a woman in
I wanted to shine the light on a local non-profit organization, the Twin City Area Optimist Club, as they participated in two 2024 community events offering
The Podcast Pilot with a Purpose-Driven Pair: Scott Seek and Andy Held What an entertaining first interview episode! Through our hilarious conversation, local Festus residents
I am excited about the opportunity to SHARE communication via email to CONNECT with you as we all SUPPORT OurFESTUS-area community. SUBSCRIBE to communication for
Andy Held and Scott Seek have been partners in their advocacy for the community, cycling, and many other endeavors. Learn more about them on the
I’m excited to explain this new podcast thing! It’s fun to be nosy and simply listen in here: However, if you want to be nosy
Introducing MyFESTUS.com Conversations: is a Powerful (and Playful!) POD/WEBCAST! Perhaps you’re curious… How can I learn about what is going on around here? Who can
Our Twin City Trick-or-Treating Tradition Traditions are nourishing, comforting, and can even be transformative. Traditions are certain rituals and connections within a moment of time.
A teaser is short and sweet, leaving one salivating for more. A teaser is a treat, a taste, an itty-bitty preview of what it is
Peanut butter, jelly, and bread are each impressive and tasty entities in their own individual rights, but when these three ingredients are merged together, it
Our family loves OurFESTUS-area community and loves our local community theater group: Spotlight Community Theatre…not only because of the opportunities on stage and behind the
The leaves are falling and the coffee is calling your name right into The Corner Cup Micro Bakery, located on our charming and historic Festus/Crystal
Updated Prior to the October 18, 2024, Atlas Youth Outreach Hosted a Teen Trunk-or-Treat. Check out what it, and they, are all about: Teenagers are
Community can have several definitions and meanings to different people; however, most can agree that community is a collaboration that one can count on. The
I am cracking myself up as I casually combine these words; however, that is how I felt throughout the evening last night as I was
Oh Main & Mill, how I adore all that you are. From your historic and charming energy to your flavorful and fulfilling meals. From your
Our whole family had a blast at the Autumn Ridge Car Show on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Check out our why we were so excited:
Main & Mill Brewing Company hosted StreetFest on October 12 & 13, 2024. Check out what it was all about: Graphics courtesy of the Main &
Have you ever wondered WHY I consistently use the words: SHARE, CONNECT & SUPPORT within everything I do? LISTEN to this short, 6-minute, itty-bitty bit
“Home is not a place, it’s a feeling.” – Cecilia Aaron As someone who has lived in a lot of different cities, in a few
LISTEN to THIS story on my NEW YouTUBE Channel…or keep reading:There is nothing like traveling outside of our local city, county, state, or country that
On October 12, 2024, Autumn Ridge Residences hosted an epic Car Show. Check out what it was all about: Check out pictures from the
On October 13, 2024, Second Hand Heros hosted an their first Car Show. Check out what it was all about: Second Hand Heros helps folks
🙋🏼♀️I am SOOO excited for you to check out this fun VIDEO TOUR of the updated MyFESTUS.com website…as you listen to my northern accent. 😅
On September 28, 2024, Ozark Food Panty hosted an epic Car Show. Check out what it was all about: Believe it or not, we have
Nine years ago, a few buddies were looking to meet on a consistent, weekly basis to ride bikes and enjoy each other’s company. Throughout the
“The key to success is to start before you’re ready.” Marie Forleo Sometimes we are presented with an unexpected opportunity in life that is ready
I call her “Marvelous Marie.” I am referring to the marvelous local celebrity, Marie Stelling, Community Relations Director at Autumn Ridge Residences. There are multiple
SHARE: Senior Care Solutions, privately owned and operated, provides temporary or long-term services to Elders in a setting that looks and feels like their own
I LOVE a good organizational system! In fact, to my embarrassment, my parents LOVE to tell people that I asked for a filing cabinet when
People in Jefferson County are looking for referrals that go beyond a general internet search. We all want to know WHO we can TRUST to
With Twin City days happening this last weekend, I wanted to highlight one of my favorite local restaurants, and how supporting our local people and
With a fresh new month and all this fresh back-to-school energy, most of us know how good it feels to have fresh new supplies as
Have you ever thought about being on stage or helping behind the stage? Is there an itty-bitty part of you craving a creative outlet? Perhaps
Eat some great food for a great cause! I love when businesses can help non-profit organizations! Texas Roadhouse (Festus, MO – 1351 Shapiro Drive) is
I have always associated the word/concept of abundance with the word/concept of enough. As in enough resources of something tangible such as money, food, shelter,
Community is not just a group of people, it is an energy, a feeling, and a vibe of connection. Community is something the people build.
With the start of this new school year in Festus, Missouri, I am thinking about all the kiddos who will be riding the buses, many
Ohh the summer temperatures are elevating again in OurFESTUS area! To elevate your outdoor adventures and COOL off, OurFAMILY recommends an itty-bitty drive to De
The time that we have all been waiting for is here! The Contrarian Concert Hall & Theater on our charming and historic Festus Main Street
This last Saturday, our family had so much fun volunteering at the Back To The 80’s themed, family (and dog) friendly 5K run at Jefferson
MyFESTUS.com is a website that creates an opportunity for individuals, businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations to be more visible by shining the light on what
While this particular event has now passed, here were the details on what it was all about, who was involved, and why: The Hillsboro Chamber
MyFESTUS.com was a PROUD SPONSOR of the: Jefferson County Growth Association – JCGA FALL BI-ANNUAL Breakfast. Check out what it was all about: Join us
Sometimes we feel stagnant. Despite the busyness that consumes us, or the open space in our schedule, we feel empty. Even if we are always
Having grown up in Wisconsin, I consider this kind of summer heat “vacation weather.” I can feel you rolling your eyes at me. I can
Hello! My name is Sara. I am the creator of MyFESTUS.com, a storyteller, and a big fan of living in Festus, Missouri. I help our
Throughout this sweet summer, as my children and I are exploring and experiencing all there is to love in OurFESTUS area, we have intentional conversations
SHARE: We are a non-profit organization in Hillsboro, Missouri, dedicated to helping young girls and teens to become confident and empowered young women through equine
I am beyond honored to be the recipient of the RE/MAX Best Choice Missouri Real Estate iCare Award. Thank you to this incredible team! Here
My kiddos and I had a blast volunteering/helping cheer on participants on at the “Back To School 5K Run” with a Back to the 80’s
Camels and birds and sloths, Oh My! It is incredible to think that animal lovers of all ages can take a short, scenic 25-minute ride
SHARE: Animal Shelter and Adoption Services: We offer a safe, loving environment for nearly 1,400 dogs and cats each year, ensuring they find permanent, loving
SHARE: Our customers desire to decorate their homes with unique home decor and furniture. By sourcing items from several local artists and small American businesses,
We all love stories. Stories help us to understand, imagine, and relate. If you are a local woman who adores a good story, you will
You are invited to the soft opening of The Contrarian, on our charming and historic Festus Main Street, this upcoming weekend! Spotlight Community Theatre’s youth
I woke up feeling bright and blessed, and a bit buzzed, from the connections I felt yesterday, on July 13th, 2024. My 13-year-old daughter and
The Fourth of July, as well as the holiday week/weekend, can conquer up an assortment of feelings, emotions, and energy. Perhaps we feel productive, relaxed,
YEA for this year’s Twin City Firecracker Festival in OurFESTUS! Our family always has a blast at this event! Check out our 2023 pictures and
SHARE: We offer self-storage options for people or businesses who need a place to store their items. This industry is centered around people who are
Our charming and historic Main Street in Festus/Crystal City, Missouri will be blocked off on Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 so people of all ages can enjoy
Having lived in many other cities and states, I observe a different vibe in the Festus, MO area. While I write about my adoration of
Many of us naturally, subconsciously, operate with a negativity bias. While this can keep us safe, we often tell ourselves to keep believing in negative
June 11th, 2024 marked the 9th Anniversary Tuesday Night Ride (TNR). Per local leader and one of the original Tuesday Night Ridge founders, Andy Held,
Have you ever had one of those days or moments when you are feeling a little crispy…like a little, or a lot, on-edge with everyone?
With the 9th Anniversary of the Tuesday Night Ride event, and many more fun upcoming events, I wanted to shine the light on someone you
Recently Main & Mill Brewing Company declared on their Facebook Page: “Coming soon to a patio near you! We will have live music on our
This is the time of year where we are all READY to welcome in a little FUN…right!? ✨ There is so much FUN to be
Within this Memorial Day weekend, many of us are traveling, which prompted a travel reflection… We travel on roads, literally and figuratively. Sometimes the street
The glorious, fresh 70-degree weather in Festus, Missouri has been marvelous this week. Savoring the sun and spring air is rejuvenating. Our family has been
✨I am proud to be a member of the Jefferson County Growth Association!✨ This organization aligns with my mission and belief that we can ALL
It is that exciting time of year, full of hope and energy for a summer ahead. My kiddos are pumped for another month of summer
Given the Mother’s Day holiday, SOOO many upcoming celebrations, and the START of the new season of the Herculaneum Farmer’s Market, I wanted to highlight
My son is signed up for this again in 2024! Will your itty-bitty be attending? Check out what we thought in 2023: Festus Soccer hosted
The word champion has multiple definitions. One can be a champion within their own identity, to persevere with strength and power. Someone can also be
Regardless if you are new to living in an area (like me), or new to a role, or position, or identity, you likely know that
Culture, as it is defined by the Oxford Dictionary is the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively. Festus, Missouri is a convenient
I wrote and posted this last year on April 13, 2023. Today, exactly one year later, I am still reflecting on the beauty within OurFESTUS
My sweet son is turning 10 today! In honor of this special, double digit, golden milestone birthday, I wanted to share our top 10 favorite
Most of us are similar to turtles, in the way we show up in this world. We all have strong, hard shells on the outside,
LaChance Vineyards is THE destination in DeSoto, Missouri to relax, unwind, and fall in love with your life, and serenity. I believe in creating a
You can help this mission and our community by SPREADING THE WORD. Each individual, itty-bitty share makes a big impact. Sometimes a team is needed
Do you set annual or monthly “themes” goals? Do you have a word or a concept that you focus on for a period of time?
We believe people connect with others who share similar beliefs. There is a MyFESTUS manifesto/set of beliefs firmly rooted within an itty-bitty initiative. The “Itty-Bitty
Growing up in a small, rural, agricultural community in Southwest Wisconsin in the 80’s and 90’s, our local weekly newspaper was our primary source of
Brenden’s Friday Backpacks is an impressive local non-profit organization. The creation, implementation, and mission is the epitome of an itty-bitty idea making a real big
The name “My Festus” was not created with the word “My” to be synonymous with the author/writer/creator: Sara, but rather for people share a sense
Creating a culture is much like creating a story. A culture is a collaborative collection of thoughts, ideas, personalities, talents, and specialties that move a
When I moved to Festus, Missouri in 2018, I did not know more than five people. I was not on social media much. I longed
✨This MyFESTUS website has been up and running for over a year now.✨ ✨Whoo hoo!✨ While there are even more stories about sharing, connecting, and
Within your busy, bustling schedule, do you leave space for serendipity? Do you leave margin for mini miracles to unfold within your day? Doing so
Many of our admirable and talented Festus 7th and 8th grade students have been immersed in the creation of their musical production, “The Addams Family
My seventh grade daughter, Audrey, recently attended an entertaining teen karaoke night at the newly-opened, The Green Room, on our charming and historic Festus Main
Having choices is an astounding thing. When you have the ability to make a choice, it creates feelings of hope, revitalization, power, creativity, courage, and
Regardless if you create New Year’s resolutions, or just have intentions to shift your thoughts and/or behaviors, leaning into a local library can help you
Happy Holidays From MyFAMILY and MyFESTUS to You and Yours! Audrey, Sara, Evita & Dayton in 2023. Photo by Honey & The Bee Photography. Wishing
MTV…the “Music” television network influenced the lives of at least three generations of teenagers and young adults. Most Gen X-ers, Millennials, and Gen Z-er’s are
I originally published this piece on Rob in March of 2023. One year after meeting Rob, I am still connected with him. I am so
Somehow, someway, the world always delivers. When we think about it, even when we are in a moment of scarcity, something always, miraculously works out.
Did you ride a bike as a kid? I did! When I reminisce about my childhood memories on my bike, I instantly smile and feel
We all have partners in our life. Whether they are within our personal or professional realm, we partner with others who share similar beliefs, perspectives,
We have all charged through trauma. We all heal and recover from different things, at different times of our life. Some of us are living
✨MyFESTUS.com is now on ✨LinkedIn✨ www.linkedin.com/company/myfestus-com Please find me & follow me. This is just another itty-bitty way I can share, connect & support our
Throughout the 2023 year, I have been intentional with how I spend my time, actively connecting with both residents and establishments within the Festus area,
The impressive thing about humanity is how varied each of us are within our skills, talents, abilities, and personality types. All humans are created differently.
The Historic Tanglefoot Association is a group of people who care about the Festus and Crystal City community. It is not just for business owners.
There is power in sharing, connecting and supporting each other to enhance so many aspects of our life. 💪🏼 By sharing and uniting to celebrate our itty-bitty
After experiencing the loss of someone we love, the grief often makes us want to tighten, curl up and hide away. Sometimes we want to
✨What a thoughtful and beautiful recap of the August 24, 2023 Historic Tanglefoot Association meeting. The meaningful words written below align with the collective energy felt
Today is the first day of school for the students at Festus R-VI School District. The first day of school is similar to holidays in
Samples are spectacular. Really. Just think about it. You can peruse around Costco, nibbling on itty-bitty, free samples and, before you know it, you have
Everyone has a need to be seen and heard. All of us. At every age. As school is approaching, it is easy to feel invisible
“Therapy is expensive. Get a haircut instead! We’re great listeners.” This was the saying on the chalkboard at the doorway of Vivian James American Beauty,
When a child grows up in an underprivileged home, where money is not abundant, and they lose both their parents at a young age, this
Have you ever been in between appointments in the Festus area and you just need to take a moment to pause? Or, perhaps you are
A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to learn more about the nonprofit organization: Champ Assistance Dogs when their Director of Education, Jacqui Zancanta, spoke
Hello! My name is Sara and I am the Content Director & Creator of MyFESTUS.com. I am on a MISSION to shine the light on
There is healing power in anything. From observing itty-bitty elements in nature to reading a book to shifting a thought pattern to sharing emotions with
L.E. may stand for the initials of Lisa Ellison, who owns the DYI ceramic paint studio in Crystal City; however, after spending time within her
Yesterday was the last day of summer school for Festus students. I am grateful for the entire Festus R-VI School District who cultivated a fun,
Some words, phrases and concepts just speak to me. I was originally invited to attend a Twin City Area Optimist Club meeting to learn more
Before I moved to Missouri in 2018, I spent the prior year visiting the Festus area every month to learn and explore. One of the
Our family completed this fun activity on a break from school and I wanted to share:While school is not in session, our family explored our
Imagine you are an itty-bitty mouse. You pick your demeanor…are you a sweet, sassy or snarky little creature? Feisty or shy? You are a working
Today is the last day of school for many Festus students. Other local schools have already had their final day and so many are graduating
“I equate peonies with love because they’re the first blooms of summer.” – Isaac Mizrahi Peonies are a vibrant flower with a beautifully abundant blossom.
I spent the morning at the Festus Intermediate School. I was honored to be a parent volunteer to help for the sixth-grade timeframe at the
Last night was an evening full of pride, honoring a school year of commitment and teamwork. Festus Intermediate music students had the opportunity to showcase
I love admiring structures and houses that reside on coastlines. Whether I am on a boat or walking along a shore of a river, lake
There seems to be a communal obsession and adoration for the restaurant Main & Mill Brewing Company, located at (you guessed it), the corner of
Festus Soccer will be hosting another Festus Youth Soccer Camp this year from May 30 – June 1. My children have loved this short and
At the end of 2022, I challenged myself to tap into my creative writing while connecting with the Festus, Missouri community. I have a genuine
If you have ever played the card game, Uno, you know how much power lies within a wild card. The player who lays this colorful
With your personality, do you identify as someone who knows what you want and need? Or, do you find yourself more curious and open to
My nine-year-old son is teaching himself how to skateboard. Yesterday, we went to the Larry G. Crites Memorial Park/West City Park in Festus, MO. Given
When a community is hit with a storm, like what the Festus, Missouri area experienced this last weekend, an ironic dynamic between a break and
Congratulations to the talented 5th & 6th Grade Festus Intermediate Honor Choir students, and Mr. Rhine, who sang a noteworthy National Anthem at the St.
Today is my son’s ninth birthday. He received a Mario Brothers sketchbook and colorful erasable gel pens this morning. The sketchbook is blank, each page
Our community is so fortunate to have such excellent, entertaining establishments! So many smiles at my daughter’s friends’ 12-year-old birthday party with sweet treats at
As a follow-up to my March 4, 2023 post on exploring and identifying a “Service Fulfillment Formula,” I wanted to shine light on my thoughts
This morning, as I was drinking my coffee and looking out my kitchen window, I saw the most beautiful, pastel pink streaks in the sky.
Some people coordinate all the behind-the-scenes details to make life seamless and easier for others. In an imaginary world, we would clone these people to
“Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.” – LAURA INGALLS WILDER Wishing you some itty-bitty moments outside to replenish your
Being a transplant resident in Festus, Missouri, many ask WHY I am promoting living and loving life in the Festus area? Having lived in many
I’m sooo pumped for the Festus Intermediate School Honor Choir 2022 Christmas Concert TONIGHT @ 7:00 PM at the Festus Performing Arts Center. If you
Proudly CONNECTING PEOPLE and CREATING COMMUNITY One Story At A Time.