Our lives, in both good and bad times, are very much a product of the influential people who surround us. Today I’m acknowledging 10 such people in my life. (You might even be surprised by the last one.) I encourage you to do so, too, whether it’s by phone, handwritten letter, e-mail, or even a simple … More Giving Thanks
If there were a spokeswomen for hostess gifts, I’d be a contender. Anyone who’s ever hosted anything knows that, after putting so much thought and work into doing something for others, it’s heartwarming to have a little gesture of acknowledgment in return. Whether you use one of these ideas or (even better) come up with … More Hostess Gift Ideas
Entertain guests and show your appreciation with these “thankful” Thanksgiving crafts. Best of all, they’re so easy, even your little pilgrims can help. 1. Grateful Napkin Rings Cut strips of paper, decorate, and write things you’re thankful for. Then simply glue, staple, or tape the ends together to create a napkin ring. This can make … More Thanksgiving Crafts
My fellow Americans, we’re lucky enough to live in a democracy where we can affect our future. So why not elect to party? Get your friends together tomorrow night (from both sides of the aisle) for an impromptu Election Day Party. Then when people ask, “Where were you when [insert candidate or your choice] was … More Elect to Party
Need an easy (and impressive) finishing touch for that last-minute costume you’re pulling together? Here’s a great solution: If you need a wig… And can’t really sew (like me)… And don’t want to spend $40 on an itchy, ill-fitting travesty at a costume shop… Make your own no-sew wig! Pssst: As promised, if you want … More No-Sew Costume Wig
One fall Saturday, a hungry and bored couple (newly enamored with Iron Chef and pumpkin coffee) had an idea … That couple was me and my husband back when we had the kid-less luxury to lay around all day and scheme up pastimes. Now Pumpkin Day has stuck. It’s our own made-up holiday, but our … More Pumpkin Day!
Check out my “Inspiritivies” board on Pinterest for a grab bag of DIY toys and activities to try with your tot. Here are a few of my favorites:
In case it wasn’t obvious through my posts like the one on happiness and many of my Tweets, I’m a huge fan of TED Talks. I came across a new one in a book workshop I’m currently taking (shout to Debbie Reber), and it was so inspiring I had to share. Start With Why (Video) by Simon Sinek If … More Start With Why
Sometimes you just need a to-do list for yourself—not for work or class or the kids or the house or the pets or the spouse. Just for you. Before the holidays descend, I’ve made one for October. It’s 10 quick and easy things I want to do for myself every day this month. I’m calling … More To-Do List
As Dr. Shelley Carson points out her book Your Creative Brain, creativity is not limited to artists or writers. “We are all creative,” she insists. “Creativity is the hallmark human capacity that has allowed us to survive thus far.” And she’s not just talking about surviving external events. She’s talking about surviving the internal ups and downs of … More Wallet Exercise
My Castle Heart Publications 