(a surprise “Rest of the Story” to blog post “Earth Angels and the Jaws of Life”) On August 23, 2023, my husband, Scott, and I heard horrific sounds. We ran toward the sound and ended up aiding the of victims of a three-car crash that happened at the entrance of our neighborhood. We both assisted…
Month: February 2024
The Gray Divorce: What is Happening?
“Laura, my 66-year-old mom just told me that she and my dad are getting divorced. I’m in shock. They have been married for thirty-nine years. Why? What are they thinking?” This daughter can’t fathom her parents getting divorced in their senior years. However, is it’s not that atypical. Baby Boomer couples are divorcing at astounding…
Is Procrastination Slowly Sabotaging Your Marriage?
How is procrastination slowly destroying your marriage? Again, here is the definition of Procrastination: “Delaying or postponing tasks, often despite knowing this may lead to negative consequences.” What does this bring to mind about your marriage? Are you and your spouse sleeping in separate bedrooms because he snores and you haven’t found a better solution? Has your daily schedule gotten so full, you’re exhausted and drained and have nothing left for your spouse? Whatever your personal situation is, you know you are procrastinating about, it is your personal thing.
Beyond Decluttering
I’ve been on a never-ending quest to simplify my life. My husband Jake and I finally donated the massive vegan leather sectional that worked great in our last home. It didn’t really fit the downsized beachy vibe here, but we held onto it because we’d paid good money for it and it still looked practically…
Is Your Marriage Ready for It’s Last Year?
We only get this one physical life here on earth. Is your marriage everything it could be? What could you focus on that would improve your marriage? Is it being present and listening? Are you guilty of taking on a role like his mother instead of his best friend and lover? Literally go there, emotionally, what would you regret? Looking at your marriage from this perspective, does it give you some moments of clarity, a sense of urgency? I think this is something we can all check with ourselves on! Use this idea!
Enduring Love
Valentine’s Day 2024 is my first Valentine’s Day in 44 years without my husband. Please do not feel sorry for me. I’ve received unexpected cards, chocolates, and other expressions of love. And I have a dinner date with the cutest, sweetest 6-year-old little man, who looks a lot like his Bop. Our first date was…
Added Benefit of Exercise for Aging Population
If we are “frail and fragile,” we can’t live our best life. Get engaged in staying fit. You can do it on your own. You can watch YouTube videos, do a Peloton program, or something similar. But most of us find that the friendship and accountability we get from a group fitness class keeps us doing it. If you are not currently involved in a class, Silver Sneakers may be a good place to start. Many Medicare programs offer no-cost classes for adults who are 65+.
The Role of Self Discovery in a Thriving Marriage
Sometimes in life we can get stuck in a place of scarcity and fear. We start playing the game of life to not lose instead of looking at this incredible life that is a gift and create an offense. I believe that’s how God has designed us. I believe he wants us to be optimistic, grateful, and confident. He wants us to use the gifts and talents that make us unique. When you look at your children, don’t you want the best for them. I believe that’s what God wants for us.
In a Fog
What is the “elevator speech” to your life? Who is in your sphere of influence? Do you offer a message that builds up those who are near, whether friend or stranger? Do you thank those who offer words of encouragement and let them know how they have blessed you? When faced with overwhelming challenges, do you scan your surroundings for messages that embolden you to use your gifts or do you throw in the towel and let others deal with it?
Stepfamily Grandmas
Does this story sound like something you’ve experienced? “I’ve always wanted to be a mom, but I couldn’t have children. Five years ago, I married a man who has adult kids. The relationship between my husband and his kids hasn’t always been close but he is trying. His oldest son is about to become a…