Addiction: Reconnecting with Community (Part 2 of 2)

While many western cultures seems to uphold this idea of independence and self-reliance, some other cultures seem to have a different idea of what kind of people they respect and who they see as strong and exemplary. Some cultures see strength in a person who involves others in their lives, plays a part in community, and exhibits generosity and hospitality.

Dealing with Complaining Friends

complain

I have heard the question over and over again “What do I do about my friend when all she does is complain about things”. When you have a friend who likes to complain about their life, it can be emotionally draining and put you in a negative funk with them.

Relationships: The Law of Diminishing Returns

Economics. I make no claim to be an expert on the subject. However, I do know enough about the concept of diminishing returns to see it play out in other areas of life. It happens when a continued effort does not create the desired result.

Entrepreneurs: Focus on 2nd

If you are a world changer (ahem…or a workaholic), chances are you are not going to lose sight of the first priority. It’s the one that keeps you up at night. The one that you talk about. The one that you have trouble getting out of your head. However, your 2nd or 3rd priority (while still important) likely gets far less attention. It’s easy to convince oneself that 2nd or 3rd place is only a degree or two behind 1st place, but then the question becomes – is that really the case?

Relationships: Confessions of a Double Date

After three weeks of coordinating schedules and organizing supervision for a total of 3 children, my husband and I went on a double date. What started off to be just a fun night out turned out to be so much more.

Emotional Vampires and Changing Weather

As the summer turns to fall and fall brings winter, those of us in southern states are constantly reminded of change. When we leave for work in the morning, we need sufficient warmth of a strong cup of coffee and a thick coat and by noon we are taking off the layers and sporting our short sleeved shirts and ready for a cold drink to cool us down. Weather patterns in our region can be frustrating and unpredictable.

Words Have Meaning

Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Really? How about “Actions speak louder than words.” I suppose both thoughts have merit.  However, our words and ways we use them can have a profound effect on those around us. The words we use with our loved … Read More

Life in the Ivy Patch

I have (reluctantly) been doing yard work.  There is one section that is overgrown with ivy (English, not poison) and has been overgrown with for so long now that I am uncertain if there ever was a yard there. (I have a faint memory of a yard.)   I have learned … Read More

Clear Understanding

The other evening I had the occasion to babysit my grandchildren. Things were going very well until my two and a half year old granddaughter decided she would test her grandpa. She had been playing with some toys and left them scattered around the living room. That was not a … Read More

My Kid Has a Lot of Friend Drama…What Do I Do?

It can be hard to see your kid upset with their friend or lose a friendship. But most friend drama your kid experiences is a normal part of growing up and can even be an important part of their social development. Most friend drama such as a friend not wanting … Read More