The first time I tried No New Things was last December after reading Ashlee Piper’s book by the same name. Piper promises a simple 30-day guide to save money, be kind to the planet and protect your sanity. My first try did meet one of these goals. I saved more money than I expected. But, because I gave myself permission to buy holiday gifts, I was still shopping and didn’t feel the real impact of a commitment to no buying…

Most of the hundreds of decisions we make every day are almost automatic: what to wear, when to go to the grocery store or which route to take. There are always times when we change our mind and discard one outfit for another or agonize about what to make for a special dinner. But mostly, decisions of little real consequence can be made quickly…

I did not picture my life as it looks approaching 70 – not as a kid or young adult, not as part of a couple for 35 years. Not ever. Yet the script seems so perfectly written, I know this is exactly where I’m meant to be. Even 10 years ago, I’d have laughed if you predicted I’d be twice divorced at 70…

Why is it that time seems to fly now that we’re 60 or 70 or 80? I’m often amazed when a wedding, the death of friend or a move to a new city was 20 or 30 years ago. Heavens, it’s already 2024! What happened to 2023?

Last week, I went to my ex-husband’s 85th birthday party at a local tavern. He looked terrific, and I was happy to see the turnout. We bought each other a beer, shared a hug and reminisced about meeting 40 years ago at a very similar pub. When I left the party, I pushed aside…

The first time I held a musical instrument changed me. The tiny 12-bass accordion came down from the attic, unplayed since my mom was a child. A teacher named Mrs. Daniels suffered through my scales as I learned how to play and read the notes. Then came Aunt…

Sunday a week ago, I took the labels off a new backpack, highlighted a campus map and laid out a sweatshirt and jeans. I second-guessed my sneakers because my sister’s grandson told us the “S” in the name brand stands for “senior citizen.” Still, they are my most comfortable shoes…

We arrange lunch with pals. We keep a doctor’s appointment and visit the dentist for regular cleanings. We schedule a yoga class and offer to pick up our grandchildren from school. We thank an employee or coworker who has gone the extra mile…

A week has crawled by since we made it home after Hurricane Milton. Until this year, I considered myself storm-seasoned, living 35 years in Florida and most of it on the coast. I researched local history and published my first novel this year about…

Summer’s not nearly over and we’re bombarded with back-to-school ads. It’s an exciting time for school kids – time for new clothes and supplies, for moving up to the next grade and reconnecting with friends. One thing I miss about formal…