During my first hula-hoop class I was not happy because the hoop often dropped on the ground. Our instructor, Tisha, reminded us to be gentle with ourselves; each time we picked up the hoop, she instructed us to tell ourselves something nice. My internal monologue grumbled as I initially thought my friend Amy was right. … Continued
Although I’m sure that for some people there is one place that comes to mind when they think about where they would wish to spend their time, that statement simply isn’t true for me. There are far too many incredible sights to see even in our small corner of the world. For now I spend … Continued
As the van pulled away, I stood on the porch of my Nebraska home and wondered what life would be like now that I was fatherless. After three years of watching him suffer through chemo, radiation and surgery, I came home to see a hospice van sitting in my driveway, and knew it was over. … Continued
Lingering with a Real Spider-Man at the Hoover Dam Hollywood’s Spider-Man….. Every moviegoer knows Spidey’s swift, skillful propelling through a cityscape’s skyline as if he were at the end of a yo-yo trick executed by a giant’s hand. But, I have met a real Spiderman, and he is someone to spend time with. Outside a gift shop … Continued
I came here for peace. And peace is what I found. It was the Malibu waters that washed away my tears and embraced me with its warm breeze, the sea salt a welcoming kiss on my lips. Still reeling from the tragic death of my brother, my life seemed out of control and unbalanced. And … Continued
Sometimes all you need is a weekend getaway to escape the weekly grind. My recent getaway to Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Solvang, California, the heart of wine country, was the perfect destination. After a long week, we left Los Angeles after dark, and after traffic, to drive up to Santa Barbara. Two hours … Continued
I recently returned from John Steinbeck country. This slice of the West Coast boasts some of the most scenic views in the world as well as rich farmlands bursting with fruits of the region. Fresh strawberries, lettuce, artichokes, avocados, and herbs are in abundance. The area oozes health of the physical, and spiritual variety. Temperatures … Continued
I’ve found that a city will swallow you up, make you feel anonymous and newborn as it casts you in its bricks, molds you and shapes you until you fold seamlessly into its walls. But a small town will be a mirror. A small town will reveal and inspire you with your own history. A … Continued
Avila Dog Beach I’m pushing my two-year old daughter Zelia in a chain link swing at the pirate themed seaside park in Avila Beach. She’s yelling “high-urr, fash-ter!” I’m growling “Arrrrrr!” Another couple sashaying their toddler in the adjacent swing asks me where I’m from. I say I live here. “It must be nice to … Continued
Big Sur The term “staycation” is often utilized for time-bereft people looking to eke out a few days of sanity in their stressful version of this world. We were recently blessed with our second baby girl and decided to take the two-year old and the two-month old on a camping trip to Plaskett Creek- in … Continued