Articles

It was the worst of times. It was the best of times. Yes, I’m talking about 2020. For many, it was a very difficult year – loss of jobs, death of loved ones, racial unrest, homeschooling, isolation. And as I reflect back, two words continue to simmer and resurface – “Revealing” and “Opportunity.” Revealing. Events of 2020 pulled back the curtain from issues that have existed for years, both personally and nationally. The year that just ended brought chronic division to the su

She is kind, sweet, and sprinkles joy wherever she goes — “Pixie Dust” just fits her. The title “Mom” does too. If I had to guess, Pixie is probably at home writing an encouraging note to a friend, complimenting a resident she encounters in her retirement community hallway, or planning the next Prime Life Follies show. She started the Follies over ten years ago to bring joy to local retirement communities throughout the year as she tap dances her way into people's hearts with

Beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and its signature drink, tequila. You guessed it, I’m talking about Cancun. But as I reminisce on a recent trip there with my friend Teresa, what lingers on my mind are the people — my Mexican family, to be more specific. From the moment of our arrival, even the sunny 80-degree weather could not upstage the warmth and love exuded by the hotel staff. At check-in, friendly greetings, hugs, and familiar faces surrounded us. Alberto, the manag

The image remains etched on my mind. Their hands gripped tightly together in a circle as they proceeded down the aisle. The coffin of their beloved husband/father led the way as they followed. Holding on to each other with each step. I don’t know if I will ever forget that scene. For weeks it has replayed in my thoughts. Profound love and loss all jumbled together. Unity and togetherness that stretched beyond this world. Deep sadness and shock. It still doesn’t seem real. The

“We’re not getting a dog today,” I said as we entered the pet store. My daughter, Carolyn, and I were en route to pick out a Christmas tree when I suggested we stop in Petco since it was on the way. “It’s fun to see the dogs,” I said. While the idea of a four-legged companion would occasionally cross my mind, my travel interests and empty-nester freedoms cancelled out any fleeting thoughts of adding a new family member. Until I held tiny Ebenezer in my arms, that is. A 2 1/2

It’s about that time. When I glance around at friends with school-age children, I notice they are beginning to sport that war-torn look. Lazy days of summer by the pool with nary a routine are a distant memory. Kid’s activities have kicked into full gear with shuttling to and from lessons, practices, and games cranked into overtime mode. Drive-thrus replace family dinners. Homework is crammed in before bedtime. Weekends give the mirage of a respite but there’s always a tourna

I’ve never been a queen before. Royalty does not run in my family. In fact, I didn’t even expect to be noticed while attending the very popular Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop recently. But by day two, I was being crowned queen of the conference. As I stepped to the mic to make my acceptance speech, these words came out: “It’s never too late. I’m going to start writing.” My daughter, standing by my side, had always heard me talk about writing “someday.” Today is my someday. Th

Chatter filled the room as we squeezed through the crowd between clusters of reuniting friends. We didn’t know a soul, so we retreated to our room until the opening dinner in the hotel’s huge ballroom. There we sat at a table tucked in the back and, by the end of the night, made two new friends. We were a mother-daughter pair of newbies. Actually, we were known as virgins, officially “Erma Virgins” to be clear and precise as all writers should be — a tip gleaned in the days t

Sunshine, hot dogs, snow cones, and peanuts, along with shouting parents and home run cheers. All set the stage for opening day of the Treasure Coast Athletic Association baseball and softball season. But it is the sign posted on the side of the bleachers that remains on my mind. As the words sunk in, I chuckled at their almost insultingly obvious message. Although if the past repeats itself, these words will likely be a necessary reminder as the season progresses and the cha