The joys of parenting 

Often, it seems, at least in dysfunctional families, that folks approach parenting with the goal of being the antithesis of their own parents. The less similar to the preceding generation we are, the better things are for all involved. Trust me. My parenting goals were few, beyond raising good humans. Of course, I hoped my … Continue reading The joys of parenting  →

Giving thanks for simple pleasures

It seems that Thanksgiving has changed in so many ways since I was a child and taught about Pilgrims and “Indians.” Knowing what I know now about the atrocities perpetrated by whites against Native Americans has certainly diminished the joy of the holiday for many, including myself. How does one celebrate the colonialization of the … Continue reading Giving thanks for simple pleasures →

A Greek myth

Since I first visited Greece in July 2019 I’ve been attempting to return. I’ve purchased plane tickets and reserved airbnbs three times now and I’m optimistically hoping the third time's the charm. Fingers crossed. It’s hard to say what made that trip with my middle son so special, but I imagine warm blue water, cold … Continue reading A Greek myth →

Buying happiness

I’ve got news for you...despite what you may have heard, money can, in fact, buy happiness. At least for me it can when it comes in the form of travel reservations. In the last couple of months I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what makes me happy and what I’ve concluded is this … Continue reading Buying happiness →

Things to do before the end of the year

So, friends, we’re down to the last 12 weeks of 2021. It’s been a year, hasn’t it? I’m not much for resolutions at the beginning of the year, but I do feel compelled to reflect on a year as it draws to an end. There have been some wonderful memories made this year, but I’m … Continue reading Things to do before the end of the year →

Summer blues

Friday night I slept in an air conditioned bedroom with a pond view. Last night’s sleep, when it finally came, was under a heavier quilt than I’ve used in months and with windows open wide. While there are still more hot days and humid nights to come, summer is definitely waning. The sunrises are later … Continue reading Summer blues →

Unpacking

Returning home from a two week vacation with your 16 y/o son on the same day your 22 y/o son temporarily moves back home for a couple of months, is not something I recommend. Especially when your older son’s style of packing doesn’t involve boxes or any real sense of organization. While my trip was … Continue reading Unpacking →