The minute she spoke, I knew I would have to do something about my tendency to think out loud. My eldest daughter and I had just retrieved our lattes from the barista when she suggested a walk at the nearby arboretum. As I considered her notion, I watched a woman in the parking lot hop…
expectations
If an Apple Watch is on Your Bucket List
My husband bought me an Apple Watch for Christmas last month after having one himself and really appreciating it. I was excited, but didn’t really know what to expect from it. In the weeks since I started wearing it, I’ve been surprised by some of the features that make a difference for me. So I…
Embracing Reality – Sand in Your Shorts & All
As a bucket list fan, I love seeing photos of people’s adventures. Looks of triumph after conquering a steep climb or weathering rough seas, smiles of glee against the backdrop of a well-known destination, and peaceful scenes of relaxation and frolicking. Perhaps like this one: We need these types of photos – ones that capture the…
Being Present in Transition
We’re a family in transition. We have been for a few months now. My husband started a new job in early May. Our eldest graduated from high school a few weeks later and then left the state for a summer job. Our sixteen-year-old took her first job a month after that. It has been exciting…
Why I Didn’t Create an Over-the-Top Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day yesterday was low key at my house. My husband cooked an amazing meal for me on Sunday. I gave him chocolate and each of my girls a little Valentine’s candy on the 14th. Compared to the heart-themed-breakfast, love-notes-in-lunch-boxes fusses many of my fellow moms made, it doesn’t sound much like a bucket list…
Bucket List Bonds: Another Reason the Cubs Win Was Such a Big Deal
I have talked often about the way going after life goals brings connection (it’s the theme of my video course, Build Stronger Bonds Writing Bucket Lists). And usually I’m talking about connection in the present tense, with those in your life today. But this past weekend in Chicagoland I witnessed how powerful that bond can be…
How Do You Spell Success as a Parent?
I nearly blew it again. My youngest daughter turned thirteen this past weekend and I almost didn’t have a card for her. As a rule, I don’t buy cards. I’m a crafter and I know I can make a card that I like much better than anything I’d find in the store. And I enjoy…
Back to School Tips & Helps
It’s back to school time and the parenting magazines have plenty of good tips, information and inspiration for parents this month. I’ve rounded up some of my contributions to August issues that I think will make back to school better for you and your family. If you’re looking for ways to improve your child’s academic…
Pinch Me Moments: The 2016 Olympics
The 2016 Olympics have begun! If you watched the opening ceremony on Friday, you’ll know that it began with as much flash and regalia as previous Olympics. Famous Brazilian singers, large-scale dance performances, Gizelle taking her final walk as a model. It was spectacular! Now imagine being one of the Olympic athletes there that evening….
July 2016 Bucket List Life Dare: A Day of Freedom
What would you do with a whole day free: nothing on the calendar and no obligations to fulfill? It’s worth thinking about because the concept of freedom alone can yield interesting bucket list goals. A whole 24 hours to yourself with the freedom from other’s expectations. A wide open day of freedom in the location…