Climbing out of Social Doldrums

Already in this New Year, we’re hyper-focused on a project, caught up in a massive “to do” list or just without energy for social situations. Yet opportunities for meaningful conversation are resplendent despite lifestyles. Nothing to talk about? Not true! In our spinning world, there’s so much to learn about one another. Lackluster feelings trap … Read more

Where To? Life is a Journey!

Where To?  This is a common question at the start of a new year; although it’s often easier to ask the question than answer it. Shortly after the year begins, however, with the twists and turns of our lives, we shift to reminding ourselves that “Life Is a Journey”, both allegorically and literally. Where To? What … Read more

Finding Merry!

Not Merry! That’s how it felt after witnessing customers spend precious pennies at Walmart. Then, listening to news filled with acrimony further dampened my spirits. Two worlds, light and dark, seemed to exist: one very merry, filled with joyous possibility; the other glum and unattached. Fortunately, everywhere, holiday lights are shining brightly outside. Blow-up Santas … Read more

Going to the Wrong Mansion: Missing a Holiday Party

Last week I showed up at the wrong party! My mistake led me to the Governor’s Mansion! Although beautifully decorated, as I wandered around the room, not far from shaking hands with Governor Hickenlooper, it became clear that none of the guests looked familiar. What party was this? My calendar had confused dates for the … Read more

What We Know Today About Goodbye

The day before my son left for college we started practicing our goodbye. I hugged him almost anytime I left his presence. He laughed at my silliness while agreeing that it would make the real “ Au Revoir” easier. We felt grateful to have found humor as a salve for apprehension. Goodbye to cooking family … Read more

Standing Firm

When crossing a street we hold tightly to the small hands of our children. We steadfastly want to protect them and bolster their sense of security.   Holding tightly is analogous to “standing firm” in conversations.  Our children are precious.  So are you! Think about a time when you had to communicate something difficult or … Read more

Knowledge Or Not!

As much as we believe conversation connects us, sometimes our knowledge gets us in trouble!  Let me explain! At a community table recently, a couple taught us about how they raised chickens, turkeys and rabbits on their property. We’ve since shared what we learned with others because the “home farming” conversation was interesting and a … Read more

Stop The Road Runner

It’s shocking how early in the morning our minds start racing down the day’s track and yet the sun is barely in the sky. Frenetic energy also affects family members, those who move a little “slower”. Which are you, the snail or the Road Runner? Beep Beep. Running around like a crazy person at any … Read more

Olives for Conversation

When recently travelling to Spain, my husband and I with marginal Spanish abilities and a little effort enjoyed interactions wherever we explored. Sometimes our efforts translated into a bowl of green olives “on the house”! Although starting a conversation required some extra energy, the rewards were worth it, even if just for the smile and … Read more

Embrace the Dimensions!

Interacting with others is a multi-dimensional experience! On Wednesday night The Beehive Collective, “an all-volunteer swarm of educators, artists, and activists using images to communicate” presented “Mesoamérica Resiste”[1], a large intricate illustration depicting indigenous cultures and over 400 species of insects, animals and plants, resisting global systems. Examining the poster’s details, really studying the myriad … Read more