The Ides of March are upon us once again. This year, more than anything, March 15th signifies the momentous return to school full-time for hybrid students across most local school districts. March 15th, 2021 has served as a time of anticipation for some, breathing a sense of relief, signaling perhaps a return to life as we new it. For others,...[ read more ]
Over the years I’ve found that some people I talk to say that they loved high school, others recall their college experiences as the best times in their lives and still a few more remember with fondness the innocence of elementary school. What I rarely hear is how fantastic middle school was… In this same vein, 2020 was the adult...[ read more ]
2020 has been a rough year, to put it mildly. As we gather, in person or virtually, around our tables this Thanksgiving having an “attitude of gratitude” can be difficult. Some of us are in impossible situations and As I reflect, I have come to realize that what I am most grateful for through this year is the ability to...[ read more ]
The Holiday season is nearly upon us. But this year it’s quite different and filled with uncertainty. All of this uncertainty can lead to experiences of stress and anxiety. One of the best ways to address uncertainty is to make decisions. Decisions that allow you some peace of mind during these difficult times. Below are a few areas to consider...[ read more ]
Political stress, while as American as apple pie, has changed in recent times that the classic dessert recipe has not. While some may prefer granny smith to golden delicious apples and various ratios of cinnamon and sugar we rarely hear reporting on orchard picketing or bakery protests. Perhaps a cover-up conspiracy is afoot, or perhaps apples have yet to organize...[ read more ]
“What is a week-end?” Maggie Smith’s character from Downton Abbey famously inquired while in conversation with her soon to be grandson-in-law. While she enjoyed a life of luxurious leisure, today we may find ourselves asking the same question, but for different reasons. Many of us have been working from home now for several weeks, though who’s to be sure how...[ read more ]
“Be kind” I gently remind my intimate neighbors on NextDoor. "Stay home" I subtly reprimand my loyal Instagram legion. “Congratulate me” and “heed my expert advice” I humbly share to my audience to make my contributions to society known on FaceBook. “Imagine” I sing to the sick and downtrodden intimating that quarantine is not so bad even within a mere...[ read more ]
As the great researcher, Harry Harlow, confirmed decades ago, contact comfort is essential for human development and a sense of security. A mere 20-second hug with a loved one, loved pet or loved stuff animal releases the "cuddle hormone" oxytocin. Oxytocin has been shown to contribute to positive emotional responses including relaxation, trust and psychological stability. With many of us...[ read more ]
Social distancing is not too much fun, eh? Well, it’s bad enough to feel stuck inside during the week when we’d otherwise be at the office or on the job. But, with the “first official pandemic weekend” (feel free to steal this phrase) nearly upon us, if you are like me, you’re wondering how to pass the time in at...[ read more ]
Working from home or ‘hardly’ working from home? The scourge that is Covid-19 or the Coronavirus, if you prefer, continues to cause disruption to our lives and many of us find ourselves working from home as mandated or strongly suggested by our employers. If you have never worked from home before, you may finally discover that the grass is not...[ read more ]
