A haiku — Head butts and soft purrs Gentle paws knead love biscuits Sadness melts away

How to put regret where it belongs — How many times do you start a sentence with, “I should have, but,” or “I could have, but,” or “I would have, but”? If you’re like me, a whole lot. How does it make you feel? Most likely, you experience a mixed bag of feelings — shame, guilt, regret, anger…

Whitewashing the past only hides it; it doesn’t erase it — I belong to several online book groups. Recently, a fellow member wrote that she had tried to read Out of Africa by Isak Dineson but quit because of how native Kenyans and other people of color were treated. Responses pointed out that the book portrays the colonial, racist attitudes of…

It’s not just about money; it’s about mindset — A week ago I was having coffee and a muffin with a new “friend.” The word is in quotes because it takes a while for me to form a friendship but when I do, it’s a commitment. The jury is still out on her. She asked me what I was…

Experts weigh in on how to disengage — Lately, I feel like my brain is on an out-of-control hamster wheel. Spinning, spinning, and not going anywhere except over and over the same worrisome thoughts. What can I do to earn more money? Will I be able to meet next month’s bills? When will my delinquent client pay me…

What toddlers teach us — A few days ago, I ran into a couple that lives in my complex, their toddler son between them. They released his hands, and he took a wobbly, uncertain step forward, a determined expression on his face. One step. Two, Three, then bam! Down he went on his bum. His…

The importance of nonjudgment and the joy of imperfection — I was rushing off to the grocery store when I passed an older, painfully thin woman, sitting on the parking lot curb. She had spread out a towel with five small, crocheted baskets on it. She smiled and said good morning, I muttered a response and kept going, but something…

A haiku

Once more into the fray — Thanks, Lu Skerdoo and Tina for passing this on to me. 1. My favorite drink: Morning: Coffee, hot, strong, black Lunch: Cold water or Pellegrino Dinner: Wine, red or white, depending on my mood and what’s for dinner 2. My Favorite color: Gray and white for clothing (I channel Diane Keaton) Blue and green for surroundings 3. If you won the lottery what are the three top things you would do first: