I received the invitation for my youngest grandson's birthday party for this Sunday. I believe Jadon will be ten years old, but with 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, I simply cannot remember when some of them were born. I sent his mother a text to see what he likes, so that I can buy him... Continue Reading →
When someone tells me not to take something personal that is written or said about me, I know that I should do the opposite. Friends and colleagues try to save our feelings by insisting that we not consider negative words regarding our efforts, demeanor, or intelligence as a direct attack against us. But, I have... Continue Reading →
I prided myself on not being star-struck, carrying on in an obsequious way to someone just because they are famous. I have watched people nearly lose their minds when they see a celebrity, even if it is only the local news anchor. In the 1960s and 1970s, women passed out screaming for the Beatles. Underwear... Continue Reading →
Many years ago, after my children were grown and gone, I decided to treat myself to a posh night out, with dinner at one of the priciest restaurants in town and a play at the Fox theater. I knew I was in trouble the moment I crossed the threshold into the dining room, for I... Continue Reading →
Written for the September Writing Prompts by Putting My Feet in the Dirt: the absence of her. As I am writing my memoir, I cannot help but remember my sister. Her name was Joann, and she was the strongest person that I have ever known at a compact 5 feet, 2 inches tall. She was... Continue Reading →
Under no duress from anyone, I decided to pursue exercising again, to improve flexibility and balance. I also wanted to put some structure in my life, now that I am retired, and every day looks the same. So, even though my back has been sensitive recently, I decided to go to the local gym and... Continue Reading →
As a professor, one of the hardest parts of the job was when students ask you to write recommendation letters for graduate school. For the students who were exemplary in your courses, it is fairly easy, especially the students who have taken two or more courses with you. After speaking with them and reading their... Continue Reading →
I watched some of Anita Hill's 1991 testimony before the Senate at the confirmation hearings for U. S. Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas. I asked myself if any woman would put herself through that horrible ordeal, if she were not telling the truth. I admired her courage, even as I believed that nothing she said... Continue Reading →
Lately, I have had a great run of good health, with only cataract surgery interfering with my daily routine. I am not arrogant enough to think that I am doing anything to contribute to my good fortune, but I do walk most days. Yet, today I am feeling my age, for I have a backache... Continue Reading →
On last Sunday, as we were driving to church, I said to Douglas, "Our marriage works because we like each other, not just love each other. When we argue, it is our liking each other that makes us quick to forgive." This rumination derived from how easy we were together Sunday morning after some harsh... Continue Reading →
Help from Heaven 