And you thought it would never get warm again. Be careful what you wish for! Our annual highway clogging, bad driving and meter-feeding season is upon us yet again. Though most of us full-timers secretly look forward to it, we … Continue reading
Everyone loves their kids. It’s a natural thing to do. But love alone isn’t enough. We have to pass a test to drive; accredited education is required for health professionals, yet there is no testing process to prepare parents for … Continue reading
Cell phones on the beach. On the highway (in spite of the new laws!). In the grocery store. In restaurants. They’re everywhere. For me, the question isn’t why people love cell phones so much; it’s why people have such a … Continue reading
When it comes to marriage and relationships, dollars and cents represent a lot more than just the basic necessities. In fact, money issues often become the means through which conflicts are played out. Though some fights and disagreements may seem … Continue reading
Well, it’s that time again. As we wade through caramel corn, pepperoni-topped slices, salt-water taffy and crab cake sandwiches, how can one possibly maintain one’s slim, trim, beach-ready figure? Isn’t there some sort of middle ground where we can still … Continue reading
In between all the activities that characterize our summer beach resort, it helps to stand back and take a look at what matters (and what doesn’t matter) to you. In fact, this sort of self-reflection should be a part of … Continue reading
People often ask me if there is one primary rule for communication in a successful relationship. From my professional experience, I would say that the most overlooked area of communication is: Listening. People often assume that listening is for the … Continue reading
Each of us probably knows at least one person who deals with relationships and responsibilities in an “indirectly direct” way; failing to get things done — but always ready with an excuse. This type of personality is referred to as … Continue reading
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote, “We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done.” Wise words, and they work both ways. For example, if you underestimate your potential, or if … Continue reading
A reader emails that her husband harps on her to moderate her drinking, smoking, eating, etc. She knows he loves her, but she worries that his concern for her health isn’t enough to motivate her. She tries to cut back, … Continue reading
I recently had a close encounter (of the obnoxious kind) in a local grocery store. Regular readers know that these little adventures of mine often end up as columns, and this one’s no exception. A woman who showed no evidence … Continue reading
The summer season will most probably be accompanied by get-togethers with family and friends. All that can be lots of fun, but it has its limits. It’s my nature to stand back and listen to people (it’s what I do…), … Continue reading