Have you ever been surrounded by others but felt alone? Or been alone and fully engaged in what you were doing? I sure have, and it got me exploring the distinction between being alone, a circumstance, and feeling lonely, an emotion. Many of us assumed retirement would be lonely. We worried about losing coworkers, routines, or a spouse…

Every morning, before I get out of bed and while I do my hip flexor stretches, I think about my day. It helps me focus on what I have to look forward to. Maybe it’s lunch with a friend, a different walking route to try, or even a new episode of a favourite series. I do this every morning. It helps me get up with a smile. I feel positive about the day ahead, even when there is nothing…

Yesterday was an eye-opener for me. I learned something new, and at 72, that’s something. I was reminded of the many small opportunities for connection that exist in everyday life, and how easy they are to overlook. When I’m out and about, I try to smile, give people the benefit of the doubt, and not take things personally…

The reality of a long-haul trip can feel daunting, especially if traveling alone. My bi-annual journey between Koh Lanta, Thailand and Ottawa, Canada has two very long flights, with shorter ones at the beginning and end. In total, it’s usually close to 40 hours…

Yesterday I made a roast chicken with all the fixings. There was no occasion. I wasn’t expecting anyone for dinner. I roasted potatoes, made carrots and turnip mash, and put together a large salad with whatever was ready in the garden. At the last minute, I baked a lemon pound cake because there was a lemon in the fridge, and it seemed like a good idea…

My alarm goes off every day around 4 pm. It’s not a loud alarm, but only I can hear it. It’s my internal walking alarm, letting me know it’s time to get ready to head out. Time to change, put on my shoes, fill a bottle with water, and grab some bubble gum and a bit of money. I always chew gum on my walk…

Heart pounding, adrenaline flowing, anticipation peaking. Is that really what adventure means? Does it have to be physically extreme to qualify? If it isn’t seeing penguins in Antarctica, swimming with manta rays in Belize, or climbing Machu Picchu, does it still count?

Home is supposed to be our safe place. A refuge from the busyness outside. A place where we can relax and feel comfortable. But is it always? I used to get home, trip over shoes in the hallway, struggle to key in the right code…

Most of us wake up each morning with a simple hope, that the day ahead will be calm and manageable. Yet even a quiet life can quickly fill with unexpected tasks, interruptions, and small demands on our time. What begins as an easy, quiet morning can quickly become hectic, especially if we allow every interruption…

You may have spent the last few years decluttering your home. You cleaned out closets and cabinets, keeping what you truly need and letting go of what you do not. You sorted old papers and donated kitchen gadgets you no longer use. Perhaps you moved to a smaller space or to a location better suited […]