Uncategorized – Carole's Words

Habits

Habits, perhaps a subset of rituals, have been on my mind lately. When I think of habits, I immediately consider whether a particular one might be bad or good. Perhaps there are also habits that are neutral, which don’t seem worthy of contemplation. Many habits are concerned with consumption, either dietary or monetary. The badContinue reading “Habits”

The Games We Play(ed)

Thank you to those who have asked about my absence from writing, which I know has been missing. This was an assignment in one of my writing groups, which initially seemed like a boring topic. However, as I wrote, it became richer for me. I hope you enjoy it: I’ve just received my ‘diploma’ forContinue reading “The Games We Play(ed)”

Horseback Riding

We frequently celebrate the firsts in our lives. Today, I’ll describe and celebrate one of the ‘lasts’ of my life. During the past few years, after watching a Netflix series that included a ranch with many horses, I’ve been longing to ride a horse again. I briefly investigated some nearby riding stables, but never actedContinue reading “Horseback Riding”

To Ask or Not to Ask? That Is the Question

With apologies to Shakespeare What is this question that I am wondering about asking? Here it is: When we need or want help from someone, should we ask for it or wait until it’s offered? Although there are reasons for either ask and wait, I lean more towards ask, though, of course, the ‘right’ answerContinue reading “To Ask or Not to Ask? That Is the Question”

Stop Saving It!

This morning, as I ended my shower, I noticed something on my shelf that has been there for about a year. It was something that I took home from a retreat that left me feeling worthwhile, loved, treasured, even and it was simply a packet of body oil. During the retreat, this packet of DanyanContinue reading “Stop Saving It!”

Hosting Parties

Among the many things that have changed during my life is my inclination to host parties and family events. From the time that I was a young mom in my twenties, I relished everything about hosting family parties — the planning, the inviting, the decorating, the grocery shopping, the preparation, the serving, and finally, theContinue reading “Hosting Parties”

High School Reunion

High School Reunion My 60th high school reunion was celebrated last week and it was a complete pleasure! Except, perhaps, for reading through the names of more than a hundred who have died. It was sobering to read, most of the names so familiar to me, reminding me of my good fortune to be amongContinue reading “High School Reunion”

Public Speaking

My personal history of public speaking has been inconsistent. During high school and college, it was nonexistent; in fact, I avoided taking any class that included any speaking requirement. It was not until I was in my thirties and becoming active in the women’s movement that I began to speak — and speak out. MyContinue reading “Public Speaking”

Travel in France — the Dog’s Version

In the spring of 2002, we spent two weeks in southern France with our 16 pound dog, Saffron. Why take a dog to France? Well, if you love your dog and he’s healthy and you want to travel in France, he’ll be most welcome there. The French love dogs, which are welcomed almost everywhere, includingContinue reading “Travel in France — the Dog’s Version”

Glum Today

Today, I am feeling glum, and along with it, guilty, because I don’t want to feel glum, plus I don’t think I should be feeling glum. I want to be cheerful or at least have some motivation for something good. I understand why I’m feeling this way. I’m only going to be driving for anotherContinue reading “Glum Today”