2013 Top Ten Trash to Treasures

It's hard to believe that 2013 is almost behind us. My goal was to dramatically reduce the amount of stuff we carted in through the front door and limit the plastic bags of stuff we hauled back out. It's an idea that is not only good for the environment, but for me as well. With it, I have an exhilarating hobby, and I save money to boot. What's not to love? I come by this tendency honest. I've watched my mother keep what she calls "live garbage" for years, always tending an earthy compost... Continue reading

Resolution, Schmesolution. Make a Plan Instead!

When I was about 10 years old, my brother-in-law, my sisters, and I were out in the back yard. We had been playing with my little sister in her red wagon. At some point, my brother-in-law jumped in the wagon and rode it down our steep back yard. He was able to steer easily by turning the handle inward and moving it left to go right and right to go left. My eyes widened as I watched him speed down the hill. It looked like so much fun! I really wanted to try it, but there was a big pine tree in... Continue reading

Keeping the Grinch at Bay!

It's that time of year! As the temperature drops and the leaves turn, advertisements begin to bombard us with images of perfect families, smiling, exchanging warm greetings and gifts, while others are shown singing Christmas carols around the fire in perfect homes. It is easy to feel that we somehow miss the mark. In reality, the magazine cover Christmas is often far from the truth. The holidays can bring a great deal of stress, and for many, even depression. As we trudge through busy malls,... Continue reading

Sabbatical and Congrats Richard

Of one thing we can all be certain. Things change. Yogic philosophy advises we not become too attached to things, situations, or even people, for this very basic reason. Things will change, and the more as we wish for them to stay exactly as they are, the harder it is for our constitutions when they don't; the less we are able to enjoy what we have for fear of loss. The term in Sanskrit is Vairagya. Contrary to popular belief, this does not mean avoiding the joys in life; our possessions and... Continue reading