Happy Holidays 2025

It can be challenging to share the world With those who make different choices All the more reason to stay involved And to stand up with our voices. The devastating fires in January Were humbling, making us more reflective Reminding us how fast life can change and Helping us put things into perspective. Channeling KippersContinue reading “Happy Holidays 2025”

Most Treasured

Though originating in prehistoric times, today this gesture still serves the same purpose. That is to express gratitude, love, and respect, to commemorate important dates, and to fulfill social responsibilities while strengthening bonds between people. Although the tokens involved may have changed, the meaning behind them has not. And this time of year, with holidaysContinue reading “Most Treasured”

Oh, What Fun It Is

Looking for a way to beat holiday stress this season? If so, I have a suggestion. It’s one that will boost your mood as well as your spirits and may evoke feelings of comfort and joy. It’s something you can share with family and friends of all ages. It may even strengthen your bonds andContinue reading “Oh, What Fun It Is”

Blessings of Gratitude

All I have to do is open my eyes in the morning, slip quietly out of bed, pad to the bathroom, wash my face, brush my teeth, then head down the hallway to our kitchen, flick on the kettle, open the blinds, and look out at the dawning day to remind myself of how trulyContinue reading “Blessings of Gratitude”

Low and Slow

It’s easy in every way, but one. The only hard part is keeping a lid on it until the appointed time. That’s because when the symphony of savory and herbaceous smells waft throughout our house, especially after each ingredient has been playing their part then blending with others, it’s tempting to open it. It’s downrightContinue reading “Low and Slow”

A Long Way

Thirty-five years ago today, Robert and I, along with our families and close friends were sailing aboard The Majestic Princess in Boston Harbor at sunset as we exchanged our vows. Time sure passes fast! And around this time last year, I posted Good Advice, words of wisdom my relatives offered at my bridal shower allContinue reading “A Long Way”

Lighten Up!

You’d be hard pressed to go through one day, perhaps even one hour, without hearing or seeing ads on any of your devices touting the benefits of lightening up. These messages are usually aimed at what we eat, exercise we do, or maybe even the clothes we wear. Just this morning, I received an emailContinue reading “Lighten Up!”

Time for Hygge

Scenario One: Lights are down low, soft fleece blankets cover us on our outstretched leather recliners. Fresh popcorn in bowls and drinks in tall glasses sit on side tables within reach. Our beagle lies on the rug chewing a treat while warmth emanates from our fireplace. A large black screen on the wall above theContinue reading “Time for Hygge”

Good Advice

From my journal: September 16, 1990, Redondo Beach, California “…can’t believe we’ve been married a whole 8 days! Seems like we’ve been married forever – just that now we call each other husband and wife…” I had to smile when I read this entry in one of my journals recently. By the time we saidContinue reading “Good Advice”

The Same Side

We had been together four years when on that magical evening, June 5, 1987, we got engaged! Like any good daughter, the first people I shared this news with were my parents. Calling them in Massachusetts from California, each took a turn on the phone saying “Congratulations!” And I’m pretty sure in the background IContinue reading “The Same Side”