Two of my favorite memories from childhood are backyard potlucks and summer picnics. My parents loved to entertain family and friends but our small house couldn’t hold a large gathering for long, so we spilled outdoors and carried on our feast at the big wooden table on the … Continue reading →
. . . to be a grandmother. Once anointed to this role, you’ll always have . . . someone to remind you to cover your legs with a towel at the beach—so the blue lines on your legs won’t show. someone to tell you she loves the feel of … Continue reading →
Imagine how our lives would change if we all began giving “invisible” gifts–the kind that are not found in a box. Our presence can mean so much more than mere physical presents. Here are a few to consider: a smile: How many of us think of smiling as a … Continue reading →
This lovely little flower has flat, five-lobed petals in blue, pink or white with yellow centers. A German legend claims that God named all the plants, when a tiny unnamed one cried out, “Forget-me-not, O Lord!” And God replied, “That shall be your name.” I feel like that small … Continue reading →
I went out for a walk the other day and a fairly new neighbor in our community stopped to say hello. He referred to me as the ‘walking lady.’ “Do you walk every day?” he asked. “I see you out here so often.” “Yes,” I said, “except when it’s … Continue reading →
Thanks to the folks at Southern Writers Magazine for publishing an interview with me about humor in the golden years. I know the print here is a bit small, but it’s the largest version I have. No need to challenge your eyes to read it. I just wanted to … Continue reading →
I’ve never thought of waiting as a gift. In fact, for most of my life I’ve been more interested in moving forward at a pretty good clip. I see my destination in sight and I’m eager to reach it–whether literally as on a vacation or figuratively as in making … Continue reading →
I’ve taken three plane trips in the last few months and have another scheduled this month and two so far in 2020. I don’t mind flying but I don’t love it either. The seats are tight. The air in the cabin too chilly to suit me. (even when … Continue reading →
I attend weekly ‘recovery’ meetings to support my growth in love and compassion–for myself and especially for others. A few days ago in my meditation guide I read the following and it really spoke to me. “Adjusting myself to things as they are, and being able to love without … Continue reading →
I walked down the aisle at the grocery store that displayed nuts and nut butters. I spotted a new item called “Just a handful.” Individual large plastic bags contained a dozen or so smaller bags filled with almonds or cashews or a nut and cranberry mix. What a good … Continue reading →