What Is Shiggles? A Word for Living a Little Freer

Girl Talk

There’s a word I use a lot: shiggles. It’s a mash-up of shits and giggles, and honestly, it’s the perfect way to explain many of the choices I’ve made in my life. Shiggles, for lack of a formal dictionary definition, is when you decide to ditch your to-do list and go hiking instead. It’s jumping in the car to see your girlfriends because—why not? It’s leaping out of a perfectly good airplane just to say you did. It’s not reckless (although in my youth, it accounted for some questionable decisions), but rather the pursuit of joyful chaos. A way to keep monotony from taking root.

Shiggles are what happens when you stop taking life so seriously.

What is Shiggles? A definition and way of life

While I have zero interest in being anyone’s life guru, I do think this particular philosophy is one more of us should adopt—because some of the best things in life happen when you just go with it. When we chase curiousity, instead of stifle it.

Things I’ve done for the shiggles:

A woman who has jumped out of a plane following a shiggles philsophy


I want more people to trust the pull toward fun, toward connection, toward something a little unhinged but entirely yours. Sometimes it’s no thoughts, all vibes. Sometimes it’s I’m doing this for the plot. Sometimes it’s signing up for a trip with women you’ve never met on the Rideau Canal (insert shameless self-promotion here). But most of the time, doing something for the shiggles is simply acknowledging that life is entirely too short to take so seriously.

I mean, look around. Things are kind of a mess. And while I’m not saying we should ignore serious issues (I’m not that far gone), I am saying it’s essential—for our mental health and for the collective well-being of humanity—that we take breaks from the doomscroll and do something fun. Something that makes us laugh, leaves us awestruck, or connects us to someone we didn’t know a few hours earlier.

A woman in a bathtub drinking wine and doing it for the shiggles

What I love most though about shiggle-fuelled decisions is that they come with no expectations. There’s no big payoff you’re chasing. No pressure to make it “worth it.” It’s just a shrug, a smile, and a “let’s see where this takes me.” That’s where the real magic tends to show up.

Doing it for the shiggles has taken me on road trips I’ll never forget, to new friendships that changed my life, and to belly laughs that still echo when I think about them. Shiggles don’t require a plan. They just require you to say yes when your soul nudges you to do something a little ridiculous, a little brave, and a lot of fun.

A woman in a Barbie box making fun of her situation

So if you ever find yourself overthinking, frozen in indecision, or stuck in the same old routine… maybe ask yourself: What would I do right now if I was just doing it for the shiggles?

Then go do that. (And maybe this)

Why I’m Choosing Canadian Destinations (and I Hope You Will Too)

Girl Talk

There was a time when I would have happily hopped across the border for a getaway. But lately? Between the rising tension toward Canadians (what did we ever do to you, America?), the weak exchange rate, and the growing list of reasons to stick closer to home, I’m leaning in hard to Canadian travel for women.

A woman on rocks overlooking Gypsum Mine in Cape Breton Island talking about Canadian Travel for Women

And honestly, I’m not mad about it.

I mean, why would I be? Canada is incredible. We’ve got landscapes that look ripped from a postcard with enough space to explore without crowds. We’ve got hundreds of tucked-away towns, scenic stretches of road, crystal-clear lakes, cozy cafés, and enough starry skies to make you forget your phone even exists. Bottom line? You don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve truly gotten away.

Ingonish Beach Cape Breton Island

Why Canadian Travel for Women Matters

Women make up the majority of the tourism workforce and the bulk of travel decision-makers. So when we choose to explore Canada, we’re not just saving on airfare, we’re fuelling our own economy. Girl Trips is committed to booking tours and experiences run by women wherever possible, buying local goods, and bringing in yoga instructors, artists, chefs, and guides who live right here. Supporting women and Canadians in tourism doesn’t always have to look like a TED Talk or a LinkedIn post, sometimes it looks like a girls’ weekend in Muskoka.

Peggy's Cove with a woman wearing a lobster sweater, promoting Canadian travel for women

One of My Favourite Place? The Rideau River

Our first getaway, the Retreat on the Rideau (happening September 19–22, 2025) is the perfect example of why Canadian travel is so special. Picture this: four boats, a flotilla of fantastic women, cruising the historic and iconic Rideau Canal from Smiths Falls to Westport. There’s yoga on deck, delicious meals (including dining al fresco and a vineyard dinner), and just enough small-town charm to remind you why you never have to leave our amazing country.

Captain of a Le Boat on the Rideau Canal

This trip is equal parts adventure and exhale, and the best part? No airport security lines required.

Bottom line? Canada has everything we need—beauty, connection, and women doing cool sh*t across every province and territory. So if you’ve been dreaming of a meaningful escape, start by looking right here at home.

5 Things You’ll Learn When You Captain a Le Boat

Girl Talk

Think driving a boat is something best left to the “experts”? Nah. At Girl Trips, I want you to know that captains aren’t born, they’re made. Usually right after someone says, “Wait, am I really allowed to drive this thing?” Not only can you Captain a Le Boat, but you get some pretty cool benefits when you do.

Captain a Le Boat for a boost of confidence. Woman driving a Le Boat Horizon 5

Here’s what happens when you take the wheel of a Le Boat:

1. You’re more capable than you give yourself credit for.
You might feel a flutter of panic the first time you steer a 40-foot boat toward a lock station. But once you do it (and trust me, you will), you’ll walk away knowing you can handle a lot more than you thought, both on the water and in life. Also baby bumpers. Just sayin’

Le Boat cruiser docked

2. Leadership doesn’t mean doing it alone.
Being captain isn’t about barking orders from the top deck. It’s about knowing when to ask for help, when to pass the rope, and when to throw a line or haul in the bowline. The best leaders are the ones who work with their crew, not above them.

Captain a Le Boat with friends

3. Docking brings out everyone’s inner team player.
Pulling into a mooring spot is less high drama, more slow-motion teamwork. One person grabs the line, someone hops off to secure it, another keeps the boat steady. It’s calm, cooperative, and honestly kind of satisfying. You quickly learn who’s got a steady hand under a bit of pressure, and who’s already in the galley pouring drinks to celebrate another successful docking. Not gonna lie, you’ll feel like a total badass the first time you glide up alongside the dock like you’ve been doing it for years.

A group of women on a dock during a Le Boat trip for women.

4. Letting go is a power move.
After your stint as captain, there’s magic in stepping back, lying on the deck, and watching someone else take the wheel. Surrendering control can be just as powerful as taking it.

Captain a Le Boat and sail away with friends

5. Laughter is non-negotiable.
You will make mistakes. You might bump a dock. Someone will definitely shout “BRAKE!” (which doesn’t exist on a boat). And you’ll laugh until your sides hurt, which is exactly the point.

In all seriousness though…
Le Boat takes your safety seriously. You won’t be tossed the keys and left to figure it out—every guest gets a lesson before setting off, and no one is expected to do anything they’re not comfortable with.

And if captaining’s not your thing? That’s more than okay. These boats need navigators, dock line heroes, snack grabbers, playlist DJs, and someone to shout, “You got this!” from the bow. It’s the teamwork that makes the dream work baby (yes, it’s cheesy—but it’s true).

So are you in, Captain? Sign up for the Retreat on the Rideau now!



The Importance of Being Silly (Seriously)

Girl Talk

There’s a special kind of magic in the benefits of being silly, especially when grown women embrace being ridiculous on purpose. It often involves matching t-shirts, impromptu dance parties, and laughter that leaves your cheeks sore. While it might appear as mere fun from the outside, make no mistake, there is serious business afoot.

Benefits of being silly with your friends
No, I will not explain what is going on here

Being silly doesn’t just happen. It takes planning. You need a shenanigans coordinator (hi, that’s me), a group of willing participants who’ve decided they’re too old to care what strangers think, and a place to let it all come out. It requires women who’ve shrugged off the heavy expectations society tried to place on their shoulders and replaced them with a feather boa and a playlist from 1987.

Act your age, not your shoe size

At Girl Trips, silliness isn’t just encouraged; it’s woven into the fabric of the experiences I’m planning. I’m busy designing spaces where laughter is the soundtrack, playfulness is the norm, and every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with your authentic self. And yes, you should absolutely leave with at least one photo that has people asking, “What the hell was happening here?” To which you’ll respond, “Wouldn’t you like to know.” No explanation offered. Keep ’em guessing.

Because at this age, we’re not here to act our age—we’re here to act our shoe size.

👀 Oh hey, quick thing…

Here’s your official permission slip to make *silly* a priority. The first Girl Trips Retreat is happening this September aboard a Le Boat canal cruiser—and you’re invited. Expect laughter, connection, yoga, good food, and maybe a spontaneous dock dance or two.

Click below to hop on board:

Sign Me Up
Girl Trips Retreat Save the Date

The Benefits of Being Silly

Embracing silliness isn’t just about having fun, it’s a powerful tool for enhancing mental, emotional, and social well-being. Here’s why:

1. Stress Reduction

Engaging in playful activities and laughter can significantly reduce stress levels. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, promoting an overall sense of well-being. It also decreases the levels of stress hormones like cortisol, helping you feel more relaxed and at ease.

2. Enhanced Social Bonds

Shared moments of silliness can strengthen relationships and foster a sense of belonging. Being playful with others encourages openness, trust, and deeper connections. It’s a reminder that joy is amplified when shared.

benefits of being sillyl

3. Boosted Creativity and Problem-Solving

Allowing yourself to be silly can unlock creative potential. Playfulness encourages thinking outside the box, leading to innovative solutions and fresh perspectives. It’s a mental reset that can inspire new ideas and approaches.

4. Improved Physical Health

Laughter and play have tangible physical benefits. They can improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and even relieve pain by triggering the release of natural painkillers. Engaging in regular bouts of laughter is akin to a mini workout for your body.

Getting silly with friends is good for your health

5. Emotional Resilience

Silliness can serve as a coping mechanism during challenging times. It provides a temporary escape, allowing you to gain perspective and approach difficulties with a lighter heart. This emotional flexibility can enhance resilience and overall mental health.

Embrace the Power of Play

In a world that often prioritizes productivity over play, reclaiming your right to be silly is a radical act of self-care. It’s about giving yourself permission to laugh loudly, dance freely, and live fully.

What the world needs now is more silly. What you need now might be a little less structure, a lot more laughter, and a reminder that joy doesn’t have an age limit.

Act your shoe size. Leave with the kind of memories that don’t need to make sense.
And if someone asks you what you were doing in that photo—just smile and say, “You had to be there.”