It’s February 13th- the day before Valentine’s Day and (here in America) Superbowl Sunday. I would venture to guess that many Americans, at least those not in a relationship, anticipate the Superbowl over Valentine’s Day. Many unattached people complain that Valentine’s Day underscores their being single. Since women seem to…

I recently read Dave Barry’s 2020 Year in Review and had some good laughs. My husband and I have enjoyed his reviews of previous years. Barry pokes fun at politics and celebrity life, among other things. The reviews are nonsensical and yet have some kernels of truth. 2021 was such…

Four years ago I attempted — and succeeded — at something I never thought possible: writing a novel of more than 50,000 words in one month. How did I do it? By having a lot of self-discipline, avoiding social media for 30 days and being somewhat of a recluse at…

15 October 2021 How in awe I am of your writing! I am writing you two centuries beyond your lifetime. It is my oldest daughter’s birthday and like you, she is a strong, independent woman. I often picture you writing by candlelight using ink and parchment. How easy it is…

It’s Banned Books Week. I found that out from a writing prompt book. The reasons for the book bans vary, but racial slurs and sexual content seem to top the list. There are certainly books I would avoid. …

My heart is heavy tonight. I am mourning a couple of people who have recently passed away due to COVID complications. One was vaccinated and the other not. One was immunocompromised and the other not. One was a senior and the other much younger. It’s really important for me to…

I’m on a plane recently departed from Orly airport. My blue, faux leather journal rests on my lap. The title I give to this journal is “La Belle France” complete with my sketched rendition of the tricolore: I capture those final precious memories of my college year abroad and…

I’ve recently returned from the Big Apple. This trip was unique because for the first time, I visited as a parent, not just a tourist. Since I have visited most of the city’s main tourist attractions during previous trips, I decided that this trip would be all about the neighborhoods…

You know that meme that has been circulating around this summer. It goes something like this: “I’ve got to get my life together. This extreme heat made me realize I can’t go to hell!” Well, I totally get that. We are going on day 12 of being without air conditioning…