‘I’m gonna go on a diet at exactly 12:01am January 1!’ ‘I’m gonna join a health club, first thing on New Year’s Day!’ ‘I’m gonna get myself organized for the New Year!’ ‘I’m gonna’I’m gonna’.’   How many New … Continue reading →

The timeless words, ‘I’ll be home for Christmas!’ can mean good will, lots of cheer and loads of fun. But, for some, being home for the holidays also provides the unfortunate ‘opportunity’ for conflict and tension, particularly between married couples. … Continue reading →

Does the thought of walking into a room full of strangers make you nervous? Do you often worry that somebody might not like you? Do you feel like the “odd man (or woman) out,” and that everyone knows it? Well, … Continue reading →

‘The holidays are so stressful! Shopping is such a chore. Christmas starts up so early these days. It ruins all the fun!’ Many people, especially those with large families, feel pressure at this time of year. Does it have to … Continue reading →

As kids settle into the school year, the subject of bullying inevitably comes up. Parents, teachers and kids ask me what makes bullies act the way they do. Well, there are competing theories, and I could probably write a whole … Continue reading →

Many people I have had the pleasure of meeting here at the beach are older and retired, having moved here to settle in and be happy. Some of them, however, tell me that getting older can be difficult, and they … Continue reading →

A Wave reader in Ocean View writes: Dear Dr. Hurd: I have been down and depressed for a while now. My doctor prescribed medication for the problem, and says my depression is a disease. But I feel that I have … Continue reading →

November already! Crisp ocean breezes, intense fall colors, and bundled-up strolls on the boardwalk will all culminate in the happy ritual of Thanksgiving. The holiday’s association with feasting, family and Alka Seltzer implies, by necessity, a duty to provide and … Continue reading →

Dear Dr. Hurd, I read your column every week, and I really like what you say. But sometimes, when I try to make suggestions to my husband or my adult children, it turns into an unpleasant ‘heated discussion.’ I am … Continue reading →

As it begins to get really quiet here at the beach, and the holidays draw near, decisions regarding travel, family visits and time spent with friends can sometimes be tinged with one, common feeling: guilt. In spite of all the … Continue reading →

I never really thought much about ‘wildlife,’ one way or another, until I took up residence near the Assawoman Wildlife Refuge. Since then, I have witnessed the occasional blue heron, sauntering regally down my street. I’ve gazed in wonder at … Continue reading →

Cell phones, cell phones, cell phones! On the beach, the boardwalk, the highway, in the grocery store, in restaurants’. Why do people like to talk on cell phones so much? Or, from a psychological point of view, maybe the real … Continue reading →