The Happiness Connection
Who's in control? You? Life?
Is life happening to you, or is life happening for you? There’s an important distinction between these two phrases, although only one word has been...
You're not a bad mom
Not everyone likes the term fur baby. I’m not sure why. For many people, their pets are like children. They love them fiercely and want to give them a...
Don't drink the poison
During the last 30 years, I’ve painted the walls of many rooms. The best results come when I take the time to fill holes and cracks, sand uneven sections,...
Are you happy?
I’m not asking whether life could be worse, or if you’re grateful for what you’ve got. I want you to think about whether you’re happy....
Find peace in exhaustion
I’m exhausted and puzzled. After these all-consuming few months with my parents, I’m giving myself three weeks of down time to recuperate. I’m...
Enjoy what is
Everyone’s life is full of ups and downs. Optimists try to focus on the ups and remind themselves that the downs have a purpose and won’t last...
Don't lose faith
Recently, I was reminded yet again of how other people’s reactions to things you say and do, often have absolutely nothing to do with you. I try to find...
Death dues
I love this time of year. I look closely at my garden every morning to see what new buds are forming. I enjoy watching everything spring back to life. This...
Dealing with death
The topic that’s top of mind for me this week is death. My dad has lived for almost 93 years. He’s had adventures, challenges, and amazing...
Are you ready for the shot?
The hopes of many have been focused on a COVID-19 vaccine for a year now. Finally, the reality of receiving an inoculation is getting closer and closer. How do...
Balancing your needs
Of a life full of decisions, the hardest ones are often those that involve other people. As my parents progress through their 90s, they need more and more...
COVID fatigue taking over
A change is as good as a rest. Recently, I had an unexpected reminder of this sentiment. When it comes to writing my column, I get my weekly inspiration from...
Be your own Valentine
Whenever I think about February, I see pink, red, and hearts in my mind’s eye. How did one day take over an entire month? I don’t think about green...
Life altering affirmations
Do you believe you create your own reality? I don’t want to go too far down the reality rabbit hole. I’m referring to the fact that what you believe...
Happy ways to get healthier
As I was reading positive psychology studies published in 2020, I found one that captured my attention. Kostadin Kushlev, of Georgetown University, worked with...
One barrel at a time
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. If you’re a fan of the IIHF world junior hockey championship, you’ll understand that the above...
Colour-blind consciousness
On Christmas day, after my parents had been returned home and the kitchen cleaned, I collapsed on the couch and looked for something to entertain me. I turned...
Choosing the right word
I’m pretty sure the universe has a sense of humour. I’m equally certain, it’s been laughing at me this year. Rather than setting resolutions...
Life is fragile; treasure it
I marvel at how a chance meeting can lead to a magical connection with another person. Five or six years ago, I was asked to participate in a fashion show to...
Happy, not merry Christmas
In England, instead of wishing people a Merry Christmas, it’s customary to say Happy Christmas. The sentiment is the same, but for some reason, swapping...