Articles and advice about downsizing abound. Becoming a minimalist, reducing clutter, seeking simplicity all are aimed at attracting interest in what is fast becoming a lifestyle. It’s very engaging, and some would insist necessary, particularly when certain details and difficulties…
Even as a young adult, I firmly believed in the likelihood of living happily ever after. Growing up in an era and environment which included many large families, though mine was not, I had naïve expectations about marriage and children.…
Growing older doesn’t intimidate me, although it’s happening sooner than I planned. The accumulation of years occurs with or without my consent so I don’t have to feel responsible for it. Even excessive amounts of chocolate or desserts, which I…
February, you are a challenging, volatile month causing chaos overnight with your merciless winter weather surprises. Not sure why you insist on doing that. We know you possess some compassion tucked deep inside because for many successive days we’re freezing…
Simplicity is often touted for reducing stress and enhancing calmness. Theoretically that’s valid, and wise souls try to live simply. Reality may vary. Consider technology that makes lives easier in many respects and more complicated in others, particularly for those…
Fatherhood is a wonderful reality. Its rewards are many and designed to last a lifetime. Challenges are also included as children’s behaviors and attitudes can change dramatically causing concerns about parenting joys. Not every man aspires to being a father…
Catalogs were often part of our daily mail when I was growing up. My mother was not fond of shopping downtown, the only choice in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s, but she wouldn’t have enjoyed a mall either, had that been an…
Communication Writing, Com 200, at Bradley University in the fall of 1987 included about 20 young students, our professor, the late Dr. Jack Fought, and me. I was the one with apprehension written all over my face. Old enough to be the…
In 1966 when I was 18, I traveled on a cruise ship to visit my sister and her family living in the Philippines. It was a marvelous adventure after the seasickness subsided. An infirmary visit and medicine helped tremendously. The ship I was…
Tucked away with other keepsakes is a small, decorated gift box with a fancy handkerchief inside. The gift card remains intact and is for my Mother from Rachel, a woman who did cleaning in an apartment building my parents once owned. She…
