What is the world trying to tell me? Robert Frost is popping into my scroll today. Maybe the algorithm is saying, hey you, yeah you, you are not going to ignore feelings. And I'm just - I can't. But that f&*(er is being persistent, and he is all about deep diving into the ethos of… Continue reading What Are the Algorithims Trying to Tell Me?
Since March of 2022 I have lost two siblings, Larry to Covid-19 and Becky to pancreatic cancer, and now within this past month two brothers have become gravely ill. And others have serious health issues that they live with on the daily. This is life in middle age. I love being from a big family… Continue reading Facing Cancer and Loss: Reflections on Family Bonds
We've all had those moments - sometimes fleeting, other times painfully persistent - when someone's words or actions make us doubt our own value. It can come from a seemingly innocuous comment, a comparison to someone else, or an outright criticism. Suddenly, it leaves you questioning if you measure up, if you're worthy, if you… Continue reading When Others Make You Feel Not Good Enough
November marks Gratitude Month, a time for reflection and appreciation in the cozy atmosphere of autumn. Emphasizing gratitude's significance, the writer shares personal goals like keeping a gratitude journal, expressing thanks, and fostering community gratitude. They suggest various practices to deepen gratitude, encouraging a culture of kindness and connection.
How Big Brothers and Sisters Shape Who We Become I was having a conversation with my younger sister Angie last week about something my oldest brother said off-handed to me a few years ago - that we did not grow up together. It seemed important to him that my husband understood this. It is a… Continue reading Older Siblings: The Unsung Role Models in Our Lives
My Attempts to Outsmart My Breast Cancer Meds I'm sharing the real real of what it takes to try to mitigate daily side effects because of a comment on my last post. If there is some way I may possibly pay it forward from my experience, I am humbled by the opportunity. Let's be honest:… Continue reading Life Hacks for Tackling Aromatase Inhibitor Side Effects
The author reflects on their difficult health journey from 2020 to 2025, marked by diagnoses including diabetes, COVID-19, and breast cancer. Following grief and physical challenges, they also confront Hidradenitis Suppurativa, an incurable autoimmune disease. Despite struggles, they emphasize resilience, self-compassion, and the importance of community support through chronic illness.
Ghosts Have a Thing About Serrated Edges? Before you roll your eyes, please hear me out. I live in a 111-year-old house, with all the quirks that come with it. When unloading the dishwasher recently with my husband, we noticed that two of our steak knives are missing. Over the past few years, it's losing… Continue reading The Curious Case of the Vanishing Steak Knives
This week, the author reflects on the comforting ritual of tea as fall approaches, symbolizing renewal after treatment for cancer. They express gratitude for community support, including a touching encounter with a young girl at a church festival who offered a prayer. Amidst exploring gardening and local living, they seek new tea suggestions.
Hey everyone, it’s my cancerversary. I’m officially a two-year breast cancer survivor today. This warrior is still fighting the good fight but today is a day to celebrate. Health update (for those who’ve asked, skip if TMI for you): I’ve had laser surgery on my right eye, and the left one will be done early… Continue reading Silent Threads: Cancerversary, Breast Cancer, Trauma, and Healing
Reflections on GenX Apathy, Nihilism, and the Outsider's Truth I've tried writing about Ozzy Osbourne's passing multiple times in the past few weeks. The words and feelings have been swirling around me. His songs have been time traveling earworms. I've been transported back to the 70s as an elementary school student with an older brother… Continue reading Ozzy’s Passing: The Unexpected Weight of Loss
It's my mom's birthday. She would have been 88 today. It's strange to think how many family events she's missed in these past seven years. She was the glue that held us together. I wish I still had her counsel and support. I miss her nuggets of wisdom. I also miss her over the top… Continue reading How Old Photos Help Us Remember Loved Ones
Round 2 of random distractions... Sometimes I just crave random little nuggets of knowledge—like mental popcorn. Here's a buffet of food facts I stumbled across today. It is served with a generous drizzle of sarcasm and a pinch of wait, really? 🧠 Chewing gum boosts concentration because it increases blood flow to the brain. Apparently,… Continue reading Diversions:🥒 Food Facts That Slapped Me With Surprise (and a Side of Sass)
The author shares insights on their upcoming eye surgeries due to chemotherapy and steroid effects, seeking distractions through binge-watching and exploring Scottish history. From the ancient Picts to William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, the narrative highlights Scotland’s rich legacy, humor, and unique cuisine, blending tradition with modernity.
So, I just came home from my annual eye exam. Easy peasy. One would think. Strike that. Who am I kidding? Life never gives me easy peasy. The eye exam with the tech was going on as usual. Eye puff, check. Reading a chart to the minuscule, check. Looking at dots, check. Getting weird yellow… Continue reading The Gift That Keeps Giving
It's been hot here - like Dante's circles. The air is thick and damp. It's difficult to move from place to place. The heat taxes vehicles so much that they barely cool. This is summer in the lower Midwest / upper south subtropic climate that is Northern Kentucky USA. The sun has decided to park… Continue reading It’s Too Flipping Hot
Hello, everyone... I'm 156 years old and I have been listening to post punk / alternative for 87 years, and this song, this song that found me via Mobland, has saved my life. This band is pure, raw talent. Please enjoy it along with this newest post. https://youtu.be/P5iNkBw9K74?si=P9IyPagR0CR36dbF Down the Rabbit Hole Today I need… Continue reading The Double-Edged Sword of Nostalgia
After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023, the author sought comfort and insight through documentaries, movies, and series. Initially, they felt disassociated from the reality of their diagnosis, relying on emotional shutdown to cope. They found solace in films like "Ordinary Love" and "Wit," but avoided emotionally overwhelming content. The author learned to trust their medical team and support system, focusing on necessary tasks. Recently, they revisited the series "The Big C," which prompted deep emotional discussions and reflections on their journey. The author emphasizes the importance of humor and emotional release, recommending "The Invention of Lying" for its comedic relief. They also highlight the need for therapy beyond support groups and the significance of planning for the future, despite their Stage 2 diagnosis. The author concludes by praising "The Big C" for its sensitivity and humor, recommending it to others.
Happy First Day of Christmas I have been feeling somewhat Grinch-y this year. This season snuck up on me too quickly, startling me how fast it's come. Maybe it's the year and a half with the blanket of cancer that has been my companion. Maybe it's my thoughts of the Christmases gone that will never… Continue reading Embracing the Christmas Spirit: Yuletide
It's seems like every year I get into a conversation about seasonal illnesses that crop up this time of year. My mom used to say things like "you'll catch your death out in that cold" and "bundle up so you don't get sick." Are these just wives tales or is there something to it? I… Continue reading Does Cold Weather Really Make You Sick?
Our Humble Road 