Last week marked the two-year anniversary of the move from our house in Markham that was our home for 26 years. It was a big step to sell and relocate to a smaller SouthWestern Ontario city. Moving was our choice. We down-sized to a somewhat smaller house, got rid of surplus things, and began a new […]
Age Changes Life’s Perspective
Have you noticed that age changes your perspective on life? The ‘stuff’ of daily living matters less. There are fewer worries. It’s easier to ignore things that, in the past, might have led to anxiety, frustration, or anger. Negative events, though troubling, are more easily taken in stride. Thinking focuses on the present rather than dwelling […]
Recognize and Manage Life’s Transitions
The guided meditation at yoga class this morning began with a short discourse on how to recognize and manage transitions. The yoga teacher referred to sudden transitions in temperature as the cold spring weather suddenly turns summer-like and then gets chilly again. She reminded us that the change from day time highs of 10 Celsius […]
Enjoy Your Female Friendships
As I grow older I enjoy my female friendships more than ever. I’m blessed to have a few close women friends with whom I’ve shared some of the best and worst moments of my life. As well, I have other friendships based on similar interests, experiences, and hobbies. These relationships sustain, challenge, and support me. […]
Do You Enjoy Your Own Company?
There are days when I simply want to enjoy my own company. I’m happily married (most of the time) and have been for 50 plus good years. I have a network of friends and acquaintances with whom I enjoy many social activities. I love socializing, being around people, and doing things with others. Sometimes, however, […]
Take time for Afternoon Tea
Despite sub-zero April temperatures in Southern Ontario and with a dusting of snow on the ground, I joined a group of interesting women at a local golf club yesterday for a springtime tea celebration. For winter-weary Canadians, this festive event brought a feeling of the freshness of spring despite uncooperative April temperatures. While it wasn’t […]
Harness the Benefits of Journal Writing
For years I’ve written a journal. I don’t know if journal writing has improved my life but when I don’t write in the morning, it feels that the day hasn’t begun as it should. A comfy chair in my den is my preferred spot for journal writing. Occasionally I choose to write in bed propped up […]
Retirement Happiness — Learn from what’s not working
When we want to learn about what works in life, taking a look at what’s not working offers many lessons. When you try something and it doesn’t work, you learn from the experience. Sometimes, it’s smart to leave a frustrating endeavour and try something else rather than discouraging yourself in a hopeless project. If the […]
Life Lessons the Olympics Teach Us
Since the start of the Winter Olympics on February 9, I’ve spent too many hours glued to the television. Bedtimes have stretched to the wee hours of the morning as I sat mesmerized by daring athletes seeking medals, personal best records, and honour for their country. After 16 days, I’m afraid that I’ll suffer withdrawal now […]
Increasing Happiness by Changing your Happiness Baseline
I’ve learned that we’re all born with a happiness baseline that can be improved from choices made every day. Happiness comes from within; increasing the natural happiness baseline comes from smart choices. Positive psychology studies refer to a ‘hedonic set point’ or general level of happiness that may go up or down during certain periods […]