Lifestyle

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…

When was the last time you made a summer bucket list? Not a grocery list. Not a to do list. Not a list of projects waiting to be completed around the house. I mean a list filled with simple pleasures, small adventures, and experiences that make you smile…

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…

We all know the old saying that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and the same principle can be applied to clutter clearing too. The trick is to begin small and take it a step at a time. Begin by choosing a small area that contains things you…

When people imagine retiring abroad, they often picture a couple setting off together to start a new chapter. But many women considering a move overseas are not in that position. Some are widowed. Some are divorced. Some have partners who have no interest in moving. Others simply find themselves wondering whether they are too old to make such a significant change on their own…

It’s the rainy season here in Costa Rica and it makes me think of comfort food. Only one small problem, it’s hot out! So I am dreaming of a hot bowl of soup. I love lentil soup with a dollop of pesto on top, or maybe a good vegetable soup. Oh and some bread…

As I prepared to write this article, I googled myself multiple times. Each search turned up something different. Several months ago, I had requested removal from the Zoom.info database and hadn’t thought much about it since. My initial search showed mostly expected results – my website, my LinkedIn profile, and social media links from a local organization I volunteer for. But then I dug deeper…

Moving somewhere new in retirement can sound wonderfully simple at first. You imagine a lower cost of living, better weather, less stress, perhaps a smaller home, and maybe more time near family, friends, or the kind of place you always wished you had lived…

Do you love changing up your home’s décor? Do you get happy thinking about design but want a tip or two to elevate your game? Even if you yawn at the idea of redoing your space because your skill set and joy lie elsewhere, this information could help you with all the holiday decor…

Most people count down the days until retirement, imagining a time when they can finally leave the stress, commute and long hours behind. They imagine a time with no commitments or schedules to keep and nothing taking all their time. At first, this life may feel like freedom, but for many people who have spent decades working, the drastic change can be hard to get used to…