Like most writers, I have found the Covid-19 pandemic to be a challenge. The stressors of constant change, the I-can’t-breathe-under-this-mask struggle, the discouraging news cycles — all added to a shortage of creative ideas. Yet I also wanted to do my part with my words to encourage others, to share how we might make it …
Because personal freedom is one of my core values, the Lockdown of 2020 hit me hard. So I responded like many other prisoners-in-their-own-homes. I craved comfort food. Chips, candy or sweets of any kind are usually not part of my daily diet. I don’t buy the stuff so I’m not tempted. Except for dark chocolate …
One of my practices is to consider what I can learn from every circumstance. Since life-long learning is one of my core values, I look for the lessons in life. The Covid-19 Pandemic provides a perfect scenario for observation. What can we learn during this time of global tragedy? We Need Touch. Multiple studies have …
Eleven days into lockdown. The silence was becoming oppressive, even for an ambivert such as I. Even the characters in my novel no longer spoke to me. So I took a break from my at-home work, dared to drive my car to the local Dairy Queen for a Mini-Blizzard. Then away from the no-longer-heavily-trafficked highway …
Dear Mom, This Sunday is Mother’s Day, and I sent you a card. Hopefully, you will understand the words and remember who I am from my signature. I wish I could be there with you, but since I can’t — please know I love you and celebrate this day with you. I needed to write …
During this lockdown, I have surprised myself by singing and humming more often. Perhaps a gift from the Divine Three. Maybe just a self-affirmation for something positive. The health benefits of singing are well documented: It releases feel-good endorphins It improves brain function – a plus for those of us with Alzheimer’s in the family …
In spite of the Coronavirus lockdown, the calendar continues to mark off this challenging year. This Sunday, April 12, 2020 will be Easter Sunday. As a child growing up in the Midwest, Easter Sunday was a special day. It marked the beginning of spring, no matter what day or month the calendar posted. And we …
As I entered one of the big box stores, I knew time was fleeting. The local government officials had just closed all the restaurants. All major events canceled. How much longer would it be possible to buy food and necessary items? The Coronavirus jack-knifed us into what felt like a pre-apocalyptic world. Empty shelves. Shoppers …
The volume of her voice increased as the intercom crackled, “Shoppers, we have great news. A new pallet of toilet paper is available on Aisle 10.” The lady ahead of me wheeled a 180 with her cart and hurried toward Aisle 10. Other shoppers joined her in line. Thankfully, everyone grabbed only one package and …
At various events during one week’s time, three people told me, “You are a treasure.” I knew this was a compliment, and I truly appreciated the sentiment. At the same time, I was a bit nonplussed to be described as such. When I think of treasure, my first impression is an antiquity. The movie National …