All posts filed under: Lifestyle

Weekend Updates and Monday Happy Finds

Published by

I hate the fact I didn’t realize it was Palm Sunday yesterday – a celebration I take very seriously. The only way I discovered that it was, was when I went upstairs to visit with my mother – who was seated on her favorite armchair, hands pressed together, praying while mass was streaming on the television screen. I actually wanted to cry seeing her, with eyes closed, praying the way she does and especially now even more. Have I told you all recently just how much I respect the elderly and their traditions and values and approach to all things life is throwing their/our way? Anyway, after the crying, I came back to my studio downstairs and watched the heavy downpour from my window for about an hour and it was probably the most soothing thing I’ve done from the indoors. Normally I find my comfort with all the walks I embark on throughout the city. Staring out of the window, I realized how beautiful human beings are…really…truly. Something that’s gone unnoticed forever it seems …

Lifestyle: Have you Considered…

Published by

Yes, we are doing this, this morning. Getting a pep talk. You see I was up all night thinking about the various  conversations that I had with different people throughout the day which sadly brought my mood down. I mean you might very well know that right now we can all use more positive thinking than most other times to help get through these difficult of days/weeks/and for sure months. The sucky part was that I wondered while laying in bed, with eyes wide open, hyperventilating – whether those folks that I spoke to were sound asleep, since they were able to offload some of the weight from their shoulders onto someone like me – a solid listener, and provider of the utmost reassurances. So, if you happen to be in my shoes, or their shoes, or on the fence as to which end of the stick you are holding right now, I share with you some wonderful reads I found online which got me to this morning.  By the way, have you considered going …

Travel: Cotswolds On My Mind

Published by

Two years ago, I was fortunate enough to be driven around in England – you know – on the other side of the road, which I would never attempt – to travel through some of the most beautiful backroads to see  not only parts of the country that are frequented by tourists, but also the side not many travelers explore – unless of course they drive. The Cotswold became my favorite that year, and I knew it would be a destination I would include in my 2020 June travel plans – until of course… But you know what – even though we can’t travel right now, I still want to share this article which lists the prettiest Cotswolds Villages – wish I could locate a set of illustrations of the same villages  I bought 20 years ago at a street art fair, but sadly I think I may have sold them at a garage sale when I moved a few years later.

Let’s Share What We Are Doing to Keep Distracted

Published by

Besides writing more now than ever, working from home, and baking in abundance, I set aside a few hours a day for the following: Visiting one virtual museum a day from Google Arts and Culture and escaping into another world   Watch virtual tours exploring national parks and aquarium and  the zoo  Today’s advise – don’t stay in your pajamas the entire day while social distancing  

Lifestyle: Anxiety At Time of Social Distancing

Published by

Sometimes we need reassurance that everything will be alright – or that it is going to be alright – and to lesson the anxiety we are all feeling during these difficult of days, I want to think about… The Calm Place  Nine feel good movies  Twenty books to read right now  Funny movie quotes you might want to revisit  Five at-home exercise you should do while social distancing  This home sure to put a smile across your face Hang in there world – and give yourself time to adjust to this new way of living {featured image source}

Lifestyle: Self Reflection and Some Form of Exercise

Published by

In my efforts to remain positive, I find myself veering towards topics about lifestyle changes or if not for changes, then to learn to cope with all the things life has thrown in our direction. Do you believe self-reflection gives you a happier and a more successful life? If so, then here’s how you proceed. Consider tapping into your creative side, when feeling anxious during a period of isolation to effort a speedy recovery of any sort. How to recognize that you need a lifestyle change? Some helpful tips to consider while out and about during these worrying times – to completely adapt – even beyond today’s concerns. How to deal with anxiety in a nutshell – sheds some light on topics you may otherwise feel you cannot discuss with loved ones or friends for fear of being dismissed.

Lifestyle: I Answered A Few Questions Just Because

Published by

I’ve been binge watching Grace and Frankie on Netflix for a week now, and have made it to season 2 episode 8. I have to say, it is one of the best shows for those worried about getting old-er or worried so much about being alone while older. This is of course, past the grown-up kids, and grand kids who stay in touch or visit often. The show resonated with me on so many levels and I just can’t stop myself from watching one episode after another. Kind of like the Golden Girls – except its not  four women struggling to get through old age, it’s unisex and the topics are a more modern take on what was shunned upon during the Golden Girls reign. Disclaimer – As you may know, I am doing much questioning about my landmark birthday coming up, so these days, veering towards topics about aging has become part of the norm  – like this one about a very sexy 74 year old fashion designer and her attitude towards a healthy …

Today’s Articles of Interest – A Great Distraction if You Are Having A Bad Day

Published by

There was much shock to my system on Saturday from back to back bad news – to the point I spent the entire night awake, unable to breathe or shake it off, which naturally carried over to Sunday, where I took my routine 3-4 mile walk in a daze. The only thing I want to remember from the weekend, is that sometimes you need a few days to heal before moving on  – looking ahead, and moving forward. It’s all we can do when faced with traumatic events on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. This morning, I decided to actually go into the office, instead of working from home, to assist in the healing process, about a topic I am not yet ready to talk about. {featured image source}

Lifestyle: Do You Ever Ask Yourself?

Published by

I bought a book a while ago at a small boutique store in Burlingame, California titled Celebrating You, by M.H. Clark – which by the way is now on sale on Amazon. The book was published in 2012, with the most lovable illustrations by Jill Labieniec .   At the time I really needed someone to tell me that I was okay, that I was appreciated for all the things that I do, and that I am. But I didn’t know that I needed to hear it. It was when I found the book in the store, and thumbed through the witty reminders  on each page, when I recognized the importance of being appreciated.  The book, which helped me through the darkest of days and nights, now sits on the floor-to-ceiling bookshelf,  I use as my headboard, in my studio apartment. It is the closest to my reach, and each night I glance at the cover before turning in. Call me a funny-girl, but this little book is my beacon of hope. This year, I will …