Did you know the brain “geotags” memories based on location? When you encounter a familiar place, according to a recent study, “It opens up these memory boxes and triggers a flood of old memories in vivid Technicolor, like they happened yesterday.” In other words, memory and place are intricately linked, on a biological level.
This is one of my family’s favorite Christmas presents, and this year Von got to enjoy it with us, too. I know some of you out there who’ll enjoy it as much as we do. So, may I present my gift to you… Sue’s voice, grandbabies, and spirit, all in one hilariously adorable little video… … More My Gift to You
Did you know parades were originally a chance for rulers to display their military might and authority? Eventually they became associated with festivals and holidays. People used them for a chance to socialize, witness a spectacle, and have fun (as they still do). They say the original Macy’s Day Parade (1924) was the first to … More Free Seattle: Parades
No, really. Here’s a full list of affordable, wow-worthy ideas for everyone on your list. It’s my gift to you, so you can put that research and shopping time toward a warm bath and good book. Don’t believe me? This should about cover it, right? Kids 3-8 Kids 9-12 Teenagers Collegiates and Twenty-Somethings Moms Dads Grandparents … More Ideas for Everyone on Your List
Three years ago today, we lost Sue. It hardly seems real when stated so bluntly. And yet there it is. The facts belying a long journey of emotional pitfalls, resilient hopes, and surprisingly strong motivation. On the first anniversary, I wrote that it “wrung my soul out to dry.” That emotion has mellowed over time, though it … More 10 Things in Honor of Sue
Need a last-minute gift idea for Father’s Day, a birthday, or just because? Create an upcycled photo frame! It doubles as a kids’ activity, too. Step 1: Find an old frame.
I made one of my favorite gifts ever this holiday. I wanted to share it with you all December, but I was afraid I’d ruin the surprise. (Some of the recipients kindly read this blog. You know family; they’re supportive like that.) Even though the holidays have come and gone, I thought some of you … More Picture Puzzles
I would like to recognize that for each perfectly posed family photo, there are hundreds of not-so-perfect ones. And in the words of Clarice to Rudolph, “That’s what makes them so grand.” This is in honor of all those photos that never see the light of day … until now.
Top off the perfect gift with the perfect gift tag — something that doesn’t just say “To” and “From,” but recognizes those things that make your recipient so gift-worthy. You can make a game out of it, too …
Struggling with something you wanted to do this year or would like to achieve in the next? Why not make it a holiday present to yourself to get it done? In the words of Nike, “Just do it.” Or to continue my philosophy from stop-motion holiday classics: Put one foot in front of the other.
My Castle Heart Publications 