101 Ways to Be Kind And Promote Kindness

Lately, I’ve been thinking about kindness. In a world that seems increasingly angry, cruel, and unforgiving, kindness is needed more than ever.  So I started making a list of easy ways to be kind. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. And the returns you get for being kind are always bigger than the effort you spend.  Did you know that in September the world celebrates several special days that focus on kindness, charity,  and serving others? It starts on September 5 with the International Day of Charity. This day focuses on alleviating poverty in the Read More

15 Lessons Learned From Walt Disney and His Movies

I’ll say it loud and proud. I love Disney movies (note, I love Pixar movies too and they’re now owned by Disney). From my youngest years, I have delighted in Disney films, animated or live-action. These films are usually, at their core, stories about good versus evil, the power of love, and overcoming obstacles. There are many lessons learned if you pay attention. Sure, Disney can be criticized for almost always absent moms. Think Bambi, Snow White, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid to name a few.  They are also known for sanitizing history and fictional stories alike. Think Pocahontas and Read More

Favorite Things: Christmas Wish List Edition

I may not be Oprah, but I do have a Favorite Things Christmas Gift List that I’d like to share with you. I used to love watching her Favorite Things show. People were so excited to get a pair of Oprah’s favorite cashmere pajamas and a fancy coffee maker.  Well, cashmere makes me itch and I don’t drink coffee, so you won’t find either of those things on my list. And, sorry, I won’t be giving anyone a car. But I will share some of my favorite things with you. Perhaps my hubby will read this post and I won’t Read More

Much Needed Getaway in Vancouver, B.C.

I just spent six days in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. My husband and I marked our 25th wedding anniversary in August and decided we deserved a getaway.  The last time we took six days away without kids was when I was pregnant with child number one. She turns 21 next month. So it was more than time for our trip. I can’t say enough good things about Vancouver. I loved it and I’m not necessarily a “city girl.”  The city boasts a population of over 647,000 people who come from an amazing variety of backgrounds. Vancouver reminded me a little Read More