
Missing Mom on Mother's Day
So yes, today is Mother's Day. And I'm wishing it was over. My mom passed away three years ago so she isn't here for me to call, hug or send flowers to. I have a lot of wonderful mothers in my life, and I do appreciate them, I really do. A part of me really feels like I should call my step-mom and wish her happy Mother's Day, but I just don't feel like it. I didn't feel this way last year, and I probably won't feel this way next year. But this year, yep, I'm abstaining from passing out some heartfelt Mother's Day love.

A Historic Step Forward: The Affordable Care Act Becomes Law
On March 23, 2010, history was made when President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law. This sweeping piece of legislation, also known as "Obamacare," aims to transform the U.S. healthcare system by making health insurance more accessible and affordable for millions of Americans. It’s a monumental moment that has sparked both hope and heated debate across the nation.

A World United: The 2010 Winter Olympics and ‘We Are the World 25 for Haiti
The 2010 Winter Olympics, held in Vancouver from February 12 to February 28, brought the world together in celebration of athletic excellence, cultural pride, and global unity. Amidst this historic event, another powerful moment unfolded: the debut of “We Are the World 25 for Haiti,” a modern remake of the iconic 1985 charity single, which premiered during the Olympics’ opening ceremonies. Together, these events underscored the power of sport, art, and humanity to unite us all.

Facing My Fears: How I Fell in Love with Blogging
For the longest time, I resisted blogging. Even before I started writing, I would agonize over what to write about on my own personal website. I often told myself, What the hell do I have to say that is that important?
Then, I came upon a fellow blogger who was writing about what I am feeling. It made me feel not so alone or weird for having my doubts and insecurities about something I love doing so much.

Don't Give Up! Minor Changes Can Bring Major Results
I have vowed that 2010 is going to be a better year for me than 2009 was. I will take more time to do things for myself, I will be more productive, I am going to learn new things and breakthrough old barriers. Whew! that is a lot for just one year! One challenge for me in '09 was keeping up with the housework.

How to Beat the Holiday Blues: 5 Practical Tips for a Happier Season
I realized my last post was a bit of a downer, so I wanted to dedicate this month’s post to some practical tips to help fight those holiday blues. The fact of the matter is, the holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can bring feelings of sadness, stress, or even loneliness. If you’re experiencing the holiday blues, know that you’re not alone—and there are ways to navigate these feelings. Here are five practical tips to help you lift your spirits and find some peace during the holidays.

Loving the Holidays but Surrendering to the Bah Humbug
Let's just cut to the chase. 2009 has been a shitty year for me. So shitty that when I am at my worst moments, what I am most grateful for, is simply life itself. Yes, I have many other things to be thankful for, too: a loving husband, supportive family, a roof over my head, and money in the bank.

Marriage Evolution: When the Honeymoon Phase is Over
Do you know what I wish someone would have told me about marriage? I wish they would have said that marriage is not just a journey, but rather, it is an evolution. It is an evolution of individuality and oneness all at the same time. It is all so fun when you first meet and fall in love.

Trying to Solve My Chronic Not Finishing Problem
I don't know what it is with me lately. I have had the most challenging time with finishing things. Whether it is a big project or small, a longer-term goal with baby steps, or a shorter-term task, the items on my to-do lists grows like weeds. As soon as I finish one thing, another thing gets added to the list. Am I the only one for which this happens? It doesn't help that I have one husband, two senior dogs who require a lot of attention and that I wear about a dozen different "hats." Before I go any further, I feel I should add what I am sure a lot of you are thinking;

Hammer Time: Sometimes It's My Tool of Choice in a DIY Project
Ever since I moved in with my husband into the house he owned when we met, there have been little projects around the house that need tending—some of a decorative nature, others of an essential functional nature. One of the more functional items that needed fixing was the broken lazy susan in the kitchen that didn't spin.

My Soul's Prescription: Slowing Down and Digital De-Toxing
I am asking myself this single question: what does or will soothe my soul? It is a question I don't know if I have ever fully explored. At different times or phases of my life, I did a better job of listening to my soul, but I got so busy I stopped listening somewhere along the way. As I learned the hard way, that is never-- repeat never-- a good thing.

Food Network Fantasy Land: Why “Simple” Recipes Are Never Simple
I’m sitting here watching a “behind the scenes” special of Food Network celebrity cooking shows, and with every passing second, my blood pressure ticks a little higher. Why? Because the whole thing feels like a glittering, butter-soaked lie.