This post is part of a series titled, “A-B-Cs – What It’s Really Like”. Each week a new letter and its word will be revealed. Each word’s explanation will illustrate significant personal meaning, application and ultimately demonstrate, What It’s Really Like… Back in 1998 MTV debuted the reality TV s... Read More »
2 teaspoons garlic, minced 1 onion, chopped finely 2 stalks celery, chopped finely 2 tablespoons butter/oil 2 cups dried split peas 1 bag (10.8oz) frozen sweet peas, chop/grind* 1 1/2 to 2 quarts vegetable broth 2 potatoes, peeled and chop/grind* 2 carrots, peeled & chop/grind* 1 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke* ~ I use hickory 1 bay leaf 1 cup half & half or non dairy creamer In a large ... Read More »
It’s a random title, right? Yet that’s what pops into my head when I think about my Dad. He’s a simple man with a complex witty mind and I am often bewildered by the things he does and shares. Most of the time I laugh or shake my head at the stuff he comes up with, but then sometime later I realize how it truly connects to him and resonates with me. When I was younger, my dad often said “Sho... Read More »
I went to BlogU this weekend, one of my most favorite weekends of the year because I get to go hang out with other writers and bloggers who are off the chart weird like me. It’s pretty fucking awesome. During check-in, however, something embarrassing and downright hilarious happened that I’m going to try to tell you without crying laughing tears. I had just had lunch with several of the women chec... Read More »
Hi all! I’m Nicole. I’ve contemplated for days and weeks just how I would write my story. I’ve felt guilty and convinced myself how wrong it could be telling the world about the ugly life I lived. It wasn’t until today, that I realized my story may help someone, including myself, as I begin my long journey of letting go. I hope you can too. I wasn’t even sure how I wo... Read More »
I recently started an exercise routine where I’m weight training and doing some walking too, as I am aware how important it is to have strong bones and muscles as we age. Being in my 50’s and just starting out, I am surprised at the fact that I’m actually enjoying doing it!! I’ve never been much for going to the gym, but once again if you push yourself out of your comfort z... Read More »
(What’s it really like to hear you have cancer…a second time) Have you ever had that moment when your phone rings and a feeling rushes over you of “this can’t be good”? As I answered my phone in the midst of cooking a weekday dinner for my family, I heard my doctor’s voice and I just knew… there was no doubt what he was about to say was not good. I’d heard the words before and this time I ca... Read More »
I met Hugo and Gert Ehlers in late 1994. I quickly discovered they were hard working people. Hugo worked at a steel factory and Gert taught physical education at a public school. Their two kids were already grown and living in different parts of the country. The Ehlers were always very careful with their money, dedicated savers, and good investors. They went to church each Sunday and were always i... Read More »
Calculate Your Retirement Age Early retirement? Normal retirement age used to be 65. With changes in pension benefits, health care expenses and other factors, there is no normal retirement age. Social Security was created in August 1935. It was intended to supplement other income sources for retirement. What’s changed? Everything. People are living much longer. In 1935, life expectanc... Read More »
