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.
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, peace, and goodwill. But for some of us, they can also be a source of stress, anxiety, and frustration. Whether it's the pressure of finding the perfect gifts, the hassle of traveling, the awkwardness of family gatherings, or the unrealistic expectations of social media, the… Continue reading Surviving Holiday Stress: A Guide for the Grinch in All of Us
Ah, traveling – the art of packing your life into a suitcase and hoping you didn't forget the charger. It's the universal quest for selfies in front of famous landmarks and the relentless pursuit of 'authentic experiences' that look great on Instagram. But what is the best thing about traveling? Is it the food, the… Continue reading Destin 2024: They Joy Between Francine and Helene
Hello friends... Wow, what a year I have had. This past year my milestone age didn't really sink in with all of what that means. I've had a singularity of focus - battling breast cancer. On this last day of this year, I'm feeling like time is catching up with me. Usually when I hit… Continue reading Milestone Reflection: Battling Breast Cancer and Setting Goals for the Future
Here I go again, comparing my life to someone else’s life. How easy it is to get lost in self-flagellation when comparing one’s life with the curated lives we see on social media. How easy it is to get lost in examining what we feel are our failures in those moments, in comparison to someone… Continue reading Curated Lives vs. Authenticity: Rediscovering Happiness in My Unique Story
Daily writing promptDo you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you?View all responses The great thing about reaching middle age and being an empty nester as a GenX’er in my mid 50s is that I’m very skilled at occupying myself with play/fun. And the great thing is that in my present life… Continue reading Bloganuary: Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you?
It's that time of year again, when we all make promises to ourselves that we know we won't keep. But why bother with the guilt and disappointment of failing at your goals, when you can just give up on them before you even start? Here are 10 New Year's Resolutions that you should ditch right… Continue reading 10 New Years Resolutions to Give Up on Before You Start
The Shop in the Forest There was a shop near the town of Slade that sold, Ice cream and rock-climbing gear. A curious mix, some might think, But it was a favorite of the climbing pioneers. They came from near and far to scale, The rugged sandstone walls of Red River Gorge. And after a… Continue reading Poem: The Shop in the Forest
The Kids Are Alright... If you are a GenXer who's facing an empty nest... If you are/not feeling lonely or lost after your children have left home... I'm here to say after the initial adjustment, life is great and you're not alone. I've been swimming in this new ocean for five years and it's been… Continue reading A GenX Guide to Empty Nest Life
Nestled in Cincinnati's Eden Park, Krohn Conservatory is a great place to visit on a spring day. The conservatory is filled with Art Deco details and contemporary art surrounded by plants from around the world. There are several greenhouses to tour, each maintaining different climates for the plants that they house. As a native Cincinnatian… Continue reading An Easter Visit to Krohn Conservatory, Cincinnati
Catawba Island, OH This was not my first visit to Gideon Owen Winery, but it was the best so far. I had a great dinner in one of the glass houses with our friends up north. Even though it was a cold, windy evening, we were toasty in the beautiful setting inside the glass house.… Continue reading A Visit to Gideon Owen Winery & Speakeasy
Our Humble Road 