The differences between optimists and pessimists can make great jokes and memes, but they can also be quite consequential when it comes to relationships and health. As we saw last month, pessimism can contribute to poor health outcomes (physical and mental), worsen quality of life, and strain relationships. I tend to be a little on … [Read more...] about How Pessimists Can Cultivate Optimism
April 2026 Dinner Menu
March passed in a whirlwind of activity. The highlight for us was a visit from my kids’ Granny (my mother-in-law). We enjoyed great conversations, lots of outdoor play in the backyard, and a couple of fun outings (during which my kids got some new clothes and sweet treats). We have other family members arriving this week for a visit. I … [Read more...] about April 2026 Dinner Menu
What Makes Someone an Optimist or Pessimist? Does it Matter Which You Are?
Two of my daughters couldn’t be more different when it comes to how they view life. One has a sunny, positive outlook, while the other has a cloudy, negative outlook. Traditionally, these outlooks are represented by how one views a cup that is partially filled with liquid. Is the cup half full or half empty? Those who view the cup as … [Read more...] about What Makes Someone an Optimist or Pessimist? Does it Matter Which You Are?
March 2026 Dinner Menu
There are several tasks I intended to accomplish during February that I didn’t even have time to think about, much less complete! Nothing unexpected happened that occupied my time; the tasks of everyday life were simply enough to keep me busy. March will also be very busy for us because we have family coming to visit both in the … [Read more...] about March 2026 Dinner Menu
February 2026 Dinner Menu
I feel like January just began, yet here we are in February. We kept busy last month with school and homeschool group. This last week has been a treat for us because we, like so many others across the US, had a winter storm. After an initial coating of ice, we had quite a bit of sleet and then a little snow. My girls were able to do two of … [Read more...] about February 2026 Dinner Menu
Convenient Shortcuts to Prepare Mostly Homemade Meals
I’ve said many times that if a recipe doesn’t state that it is “easy” or “simple,” then I’m probably not going to prepare it. This hasn’t always been the case, but during this busy season, I don’t have time for meals that take a lot of time and energy to prepare. I greatly prefer homemade foods, but my need for convenience has led me to … [Read more...] about Convenient Shortcuts to Prepare Mostly Homemade Meals
January 2026 Dinner Menu
December was wonderful for us, but it was very busy. My girls had a craft fair with their homeschool group early in the month. As Christmas approached, their Granny (my wonderful mother-in law) arrived and we did all our usual shopping, wrapping, baking, etc. We shared lots of laughter and fun. It is always bittersweet when we get into January … [Read more...] about January 2026 Dinner Menu
8 Unique Takes on New Year’s Resolutions
With next year quickly approaching, ‘tis the season for resolutions and goal setting. Though the concept of making changes in the New Year is an idea that’s been around for ages, there have likely never been so many novel ways of going about doing so. Early in our marriage, my husband and I would set aside time to goal plan each winter. … [Read more...] about 8 Unique Takes on New Year’s Resolutions
