So here it is the new year, and I’m already expecting negative news. “Steve, hope and optimism are on our collective plates, be happy!” Yes, I know … I’m supposed to be on vacation, flying to Colorado to ski with the nephews and niece, but Winter Storm Helena is coming...
As a young Boy Scout, we used to go caroling with the troop every year. There were at least 20 of us guys – we’d dress up in our Boy Scout uniforms, complete with our red berets, and go to the nursing homes around the area and sing our hearts...
Christmas is far and away my favorite holiday. I love everything about it, from the event that inspired it, hoping for a white one, to wrapping presents. But mostly I love having family and friends gathered, and sharing traditions. ~ Ellen Hopkins As I think about this holiday season, I...
My wife’s favorite movie of all time is “It’s a Wonderful Life”. We watch it during the Christmas season every year (I recommend it. Doing this as it will keep you centered). We also like to watch “A Christmas Story”. Last year a package showed up on our front porch...
Accountability is not fun. I was having dinner with friends the other night, and I told them of my grand idea to pay someone to make sure I’m doing my exercise and food diary, and if I’m not, then they hold me accountable. (Ideally they’d come over to my house...
Don't Make Assumptions. Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life. ~ Don Miguel Ruiz Well it’s official; I have...
I’m reminded of the movie in the 70’s The Pink Panther where Peter Sellers, Inspector Clouseau, nervously scours his apartment anticipating getting attacked by his man servant, Cato, in an effort to keep the Inspector aware and alert. This is like me and my new cat. I am constantly on...
Two Conversations Conversation One: Took place in the Wildflower this week. I was talking with two physicians at lunch. The Topic: Astronomy (not astrology), Quantum Physics and Existence of God; How do they all relate?* Conversation Two: Took place at the nurse’s station on the patient floor in Clarion. The...
My words for 2017 are “Embrace yes with grace.” Essentially, accept and welcome change without freaking out. My other resolutions are no cookies, candy, ice cream, chips and no appetizers before meals. I’m great with everything except the no appetizers. That will be my struggle (at this new restaurant Vivian...
“Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow.”— Swedish proverb December seems like such a busy time of year as we try to fit everything in before the holidays. We have winter concerts, school parties, church programs, and sporting events all over the calendar. We attended...
