Childhood Friends

I’m in Canada for the week, enjoying time with old friends–all born in ’44. We’ll tour the city that shaped us, share photos of our kids and grandchildren, laugh a lot, I’m sure. I look forward to the stories, to reminiscing and savoring the memories of growing up together. In my next post I’ll write about 10 women, friends since primary school, more than 60 years later. We all face transitions at each stage of life. When Rosemary and I began publishing online 14 years ago, we named our newsletter ‘Stepping … Continue reading

June weddings and anniversaries

Before their weddings, June brides and grooms may be focused on the ceremony and party – but after the nuptials, they soon wake up to the realities of married life. Amidst the everyday pulls of career, household chores, financial limitations and raising children, there may be little left for each other – in time, energy, or funds. So how do you keep love alive as the years go by? If you’re celebrating your anniversary this month, here are 5 tips for nurturing your relationship and reconnecting to each other and … Continue reading

Fighting the Stigma of Mental Illness

The Isla Vista deadly rampage happened in May, Mental Health Month. Three were shot and the other three stabbed to death. These six college students were killed by a 22 year old with grandiose and persecutory delusions, suicidal ideation and a well thought out plan. What followed was a week of media coverage on gun control, the NRA, police readiness to assess danger and mental illness. But now the airwaves are quiet–it’s a fading memory. And that’s despite the passionate plea for ‘not one more’ from the father of one … Continue reading

Summer is Finally Here

Summer in the U.S. officially kicks off with Memorial Day weekend. This year was a little different, with strong bi-partisan support for veterans in the wake of scandals at V.A. hospitals across the country. Over the long weekend, your family may have touched on more serious themes than just how to best barbeque hamburgers and hotdogs – rather, how to protect the vulnerable compatriots we honor. As a country, we need to do more than merely pay tribute to veterans’ sacrifice, respect their bravery and offer our sincere gratitude. It’s … Continue reading