• Adventurer,  Midlife Women,  The Nine Facets,  Women Over 50

    The Adventurer in You: 5 Life Lessons from a Lifetime of Travel

    “The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience.” – Eleanor Roosevelt It’s that time of year when I start gathering ideas, researching destinations,  and scheduling trips we want to take this year. So far, I have a Croatia boat cruise booked, several days in the Sonoma wine country, and a few other possibilities simmering. Trip planning is one of my genuine joys in life—anticipation alone is half the fun. My love of travel has deep roots. At 17, I was an AFS foreign exchange student and lived in Brazil.…

  • #ThursdayThoughts,  Health and Well-Being,  Midlife Women,  Women Over 50

    #Thursday Thoughts–Do You Make Decisions Based on Your “Optimistic Self” or your “Real Self”?

    Do you tend to buy or make decisions based on your “optimistic-who-I-wish-I-were self” instead of your “real self”? I used to, but I’ve gotten much better. Once I figured out what I enjoy and what makes me successful in one part of my life, I realized I could apply that to other areas too. Several years ago, I had loads of unused home fitness gear, and spent too much money on equipment and online workout programs over the years. None of these did the trick for me because I don’t like exercising alone. I enjoy activities with others and attending classes with an instructor/coach. I remain committed and see better,…

  • Caregiving,  Midlife Women,  Self-Care

    How Full is your Cup? 4 Self-Care Tips to Nurture Your Spirit

    Beautiful cup, isn’t it? Since it’s empty, it serves no one. That’s how I felt the other day. I was tapped out and exhausted from serving others and not taking care of myself. I know you understand what I mean about self-care. February is the month of love–and it starts with ourselves. If our own cup is empty, we can’t nourish or fully love others. February is a perfect month to set aside a few minutes each day for your own self-care and to fill your own cup. 4 Self-Care Ideas–To nourish your body and your spirit Time alone. Sit quietly.  Morning meditation. Journal writing. Being in nature. Connect with…