Writer, Speaker, Editor, Blogger
In the last few weeks, I’ve experienced a new-found appreciation for independence because I have lost some of mine. Hobbling in a boot or maneuvering on a knee scooter makes you realize how often you simply jump up and do things without thinking about it. Having to ask for help, and then waiting for it, […]
In the time since my foot surgery, I’ve realized the surgery was the easy part. The healing process is much harder. I have mobility limitations and directives to aid healing, but as is often the case when you suddenly can’t do certain things, all you want is to do those very activities. Healing is not […]
Last week, I finally had foot surgery after putting it off for years. Now that I’m on the other side of the surgery, I’m thankful it’s over and wish I’d done it sooner. Following are thoughts on why we delay and the benefits of having a hard thing behind us: Causes for delay: Fear of […]
At times, we are faced with handling multiple stressors. Rarely do we get to do one hard thing at a time. Perhaps your children are facing challenges while you are dealing with health issues, or you are providing care for a family member while working an intense job. These scenarios, and others unique to you, […]
Every time I attend, or teach, at a writing conference, I am reminded of the power of community. The interaction, learning, camaraderie, encouragement, and support inspire and propel forward motion. But community isn’t limited to writers. Faith-based, creative, work-related, local, regional, and family-oriented communities enrich our lives. Following are some of the gifts of […]
This week I am at a writing conference. Honestly, I wasn’t looking forward to it. Last month was one of ups and downs, challenges on top of challenges, and lots of stress and physical exhaustion. Thoughts of a week of a fast-paced conference schedule at a mountainside retreat center only added to my level of […]
As I type this post, I’m distracted. The last few months have been filled with emergent situations, plans that go awry, and fatigue. Add to that mass shootings, soaring gas prices, monkey pox, and a resurgence of COVID and distractions multiply exponentially. Life is filled with the unexpected. Learning to overcome distractions, and maintain forward […]
Caregiving comes in various forms and different levels. Perhaps you provide care for a friend, spouse, sibling, child, or aging family member. Your support role may last a few weeks or years. Your ascent to caregiving may involve a slow climb or be thrust upon you suddenly via an emergent situation. Regardless of how caregiving […]
Recently, my husband retired. Over the years, we discussed his retiring at this time, but ultimately, the decision came with mixed emotions. He has so identified with his work as an architect that retiring feels like closing a major life chapter. Yet, he is ready for less stress and a slower pace. As with most […]
I just returned from teaching at the American Society of Journalists and Authors conference. This was the first in-person conference in two years. In addition to teaching, learning was a big part of the experience. Even greater than knowledge gained, were the connections made with other writers, editors, and agents. I met several first-time attendees […]