Grieving Gardener

There are some evenings so precious they’ll be remembered forever. After returning from a most beautiful vacation at a little “Pink Gem” on the Pacific Ocean, it’s just such an evening I’m writing about today. This is for you, our Precious Goddess of the Central Coast! You are loved!

First, I must give you a little of the back story. For decades, I’ve traveled to a tiny little coastal village nestled on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean. This small town hasn’t changed since the first time I visited. It’s timeless in its charm and simplicity. A place most people would believe doesn’t exist anymore. A family-friendly town, there are miles of beaches where you can hunt for shells and driftwood. Surfing is a popular pastime. Randolph Hearst loved it so much that he built his castle to the north.

The Goddess of the Central Coast is indeed a true Goddess living in a magical place above the blue Pacific. As a young woman, she migrated from the Atlantic to the Pacific, long ago, choosing a west-coast port city. Far from home, she spread her wings, becoming the independent beauty she was always meant to be.

This Goddess and I lived in the Central Valley of California for years. Although strangers back then, many years of our lives were spent in a severe, desert environment. While my family took respite in Santa Cruz, she found her spot a little further south. While summers on our part of the coast were in the foggy 50s, her days were spent in a place that bounced from 70 – 80. Such a relief from the 100+ degree days in the valley.

This Goddess found the one true love in her life, and boy did they live! I imagine the wit and wisdom we’ve all come to know and love carried her through life’s ups and downs, serving her well. Her MR. Goddess was one lucky man. Eventually, they came to live on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with views that fall over the blue horizon. There, she became The One and Only Goddess of the Central Coast. I assure you, there will never be another.

Timeless as a treasured jewel, she is just as beautiful now as the day we met, some decades ago. She and the ocean have battled many times, and she’s won (but just barely). Befriending sea life everywhere, she once saved a baby elephant seal that carries her name to this day.

When she first moved to her ocean perch, there were only a handful of homes in the tiny village. Eventually, homes were built and filled with interesting people from around the world. From movie stars to highly educated professionals, people came and went. Although most of the houses have been bought and sold many times over, she remains in hers.

Hubba-Hubba-Hubby and I have established our own Valentine’s tradition. Three years ago, we visited our little town by the sea with Auntie TJ and The Goddess. They’ve been friends for many more decades than I’ve known her. Being “Across-The-Street” neighbors, they’ve shared everything from stories about new neighbors to the mystery of the dismembered deer carcass. The two beauties have aged well, and like two fine bottles of fine Cognac, they just get better and better as the years go by.

HHH and I love the time spent with Auntie TJ and the Goddess. Visiting them is the cherry on top when it comes to vacationing on California’s Central Coast. It began with the terrible news that Auntie TJ wouldn’t be able to visit due to a nasty virus. I’ve had just about enough of this horrible virus. Enough Already. First me, and now TJ.

With plans still in place, HHH and I put our heads together to make alternate plans. With CC on her way to visit, we’d take flowers to the Goddess and then ask her to dinner. HHH would make steak and lobster for his three favorite gals. We held our breaths, hoping she would accept our offer, and, to our delight, she did.

Picked up in a silver chariot, she was not without gifts. The most beautiful bag packed with freshly baked blueberry scones AND blueberry jam for our breakfast the next day. With that, our evening began.

With few topics missed, there was never a lack of conversation. The evening, rich and warm, was completed by apple pie and ice cream. It all ended much too soon, and by the light of the silvery moon, we safely delivered our Goddess back to her front door.

Of everything about our vacation, Valentine’s Evening will remain a memory of the sweetest kind. One that we’ll need to repeat very soon!

As for our beloved Auntie TJ, she could use some prayers. As you can only imagine if it hasn’t hit you, the Virus of 2025 knocks the strongest person for a loop. We can’t wait for our next visit while looking forward to a beautiful springtime!

2025 is going to be a year to remember. Day by day, I inch closer to my 70th birthday. With that in mind, I promised myself each month would hold an exciting adventure. Of course, January was an adventure in recovering from Influenza A. At 95% well, it’s time to leave that one in the rearview mirror and carry on with our plan!

To the west of these beautiful high desert mountains, February’s adventure awaits. A whisper in the wind tugs at our hearts, and we know it’s time to go.

HHH and I have created a wonderful tradition all our own. Stepping away from the familiar into the unknown, we’re traveling west until the sea meets the sand to celebrate our 3rd Valentine’s Day on the glorious coast of California. It’s been a minute since we’ve taken a trip anywhere, and I must say, we’re getting a little restless.

This time, we’ve chosen a new destination. Between two tiny towns, the comfy little AirBnB should be just right. For one week, Oliver and Wookie will find themselves partying at Puppy Camp, while we enjoy the best holiday of the year. Valentine’s Day. For eight lovely days, we’ll visit with family and friends while eating way too much. I’m counting on the salt air to get me back to 100%.

This journey was prompted by a need for adventure, reflection and escape to a warmer climate. We’ll leave our routine and comforts behind while their absence will bring us new perspectives. It’ be fun to brainstorm about front yard projects as we dig our toes deep into the sand. Some of our best ideas have come while enjoying the beach.

Every once in awhile, life whispers that it’s time to seek adventure, even if just for a little while. While we’ll only be gone a week, this vacation seems bigger than the calendar suggests. Of course, there is the wee bit of anxiety when traveling over Donner Pass in the dead of winter. Just Google — Magnifeye–Traffic Webcams for the Truckee/Tahoe area to get an idea of what we’ll be dealing with later today. Icy roads aren’t for the faint of heart.

When using an AirBnB, packing includes more than clothing and toiletries. With meals planned, we’ll be doing a fair amount of cooking. This experience is is kind of like RVing without the RV. Eggs, bacon, coffee, oil, and butter…..well, you get the idea. Along with all the food, there are necessities like dish detergent, laundry pods, and linens. Of course, what cook wouldn’t want to bring his favorite frying pan. And so, the list goes on. I can’t wait for the door to close softly, with a last glance over our shoulders.

Distance always changes perspective while the experience is made more magical by not knowing how our trip will unfold. We’ll take time to reflect on ways to make our Griefshare class more effective. Reading and writing will allow my brain some time to reflect and rest. Funny how creative thoughts bloom when we step away from every day life, even during retirement.

Distance also turns the ordinary into something sacred. Sunlight spilling over a freshly made breakfast. The blue Pacific right outside the front window. Winterpast’s familiar scent and quiet hum will be waiting for us. For now, every step forward will be one toward relaxation.

After enjoying our time away, we’ll come back, maybe a little different than when we left. There’ll be stories to tell as well as plenty of new memories of us. That’s what vacation is all about, right?

I’ll be back February 18th. Until then, stay safe and happy!

One person’s actions can change the trajectory of the day. Being a good steward in your community while caring for the people, places, and resources around you has a ripple effect far beyond the imagination. Stewardship isn’t just about giving money or volunteering a few hours here and there; it’s about embracing a mindset of responsibility, gratitude, and intentional care for the world immediately around us.

At its core, stewardship is about being mindful of what has been entrusted to us—whether that’s our environment, our relationships, or the well-being of our neighborhoods. It means taking ownership, not in the sense of control, but in the sense of care. It’s about asking, How can I leave things better than I found them?

A good steward:

• Respects and preserves natural resources
• Supports local businesses and organizations
• Uplifts and invests in people
• Leads by example with integrity and kindness
• Understands that even small, consistent efforts matter

Accepting the position of Steward for our church, I wasn’t sure about my responsibilities. This became more complicated when I was given the job of prioritizing those responsibilities. I wasn’t even sure WHAT a Steward SHOULD be doing, and now, it was up to me and my fabulous husband, H(Hubba-Hubba-Hubbie or HHH) to create a job description.

Already helping with summer and winter bags for our homeless souls, I added that job to my list of responsibilities. The bags include socks, underwear, chapstick, water, snacks, playing cards, hand warmers, a small Bible, gloves, and ahat.

Our Griefshare group in another way that HHH and I are giving back. As a very small group, we’re getting to know each other very well. The support and love in the room makes our time together fly by. Those in grief are welcomed to a safe place for tears and support.

Our little church sits on quite a large piece of property. On one corner, a past minister developed a memorial garden. Over the years, many caregivers have tended the little park. At present, it sits a bit neglected. The third job on the list of Steward will be to bring the memorial garden into full bloom. This is something that will bring beauty to our entire community.

Even if you haven’t been appointed a formal position as Steward, there are many ways you can help in your own community.

✅ Care for the Environment
Pick up litter. This may seem like a small act, but when multiplied by an entire community, it can make a lasting impact. Claim a small stretch of road, grab gloves and a bag, and get to it. A clean town shows that people care.

✅ Support Local and Give Back
Shopping locally, donating to food banks, or volunteering at community organizations strengthens your town. Even simple acts like tipping generously or sharing a kind word with a small business owner can make a big difference.

✅ Be a Neighbor in the True Sense
Good stewardship is also about relationships. Check-in on elderly neighbors. Mentor a young person. Offer a listening ear. Sometimes, being present is the most powerful form of stewardship.

✅ Use Your Gifts for Good
We all have unique skills and talents. If you’re a great cook then prepare a meal for someone in need. If you have a knack for teaching, offer tutoring to a student who needs extra help. Share your gifts.

✅ Foster Respect
Lead by example. Speak kindly. Show up for local meetings. Be a cheerleader for a thriving, inclusive, and healthy community. Stewardship includes building something better.

In the end, being a good steward isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about the small, meaningful choices we make every day. When enough commit to those choices, our communities will thrive, and that is a beautiful thing.

In a world filled with distractions and constant demands on our time, dedicating ourselves to Bible study can be challenging. Immersing ourselves in God’s Word is one of the most transformative and enriching practices in which to engage. The Bible is more than just an ancient text; it’s an active, living guide that provides wisdom, encouragement, and direction for our lives. No doubt, it can be a little daunting, with hard-to-pronounce names and English and difficult to understand. Just start with the first three words — In the beginning….

The Bible comes in many versions so choose a version that fits you. The King James Version (KJV) sounds a lot like Shakespeare. The language alone may be a huge challenge. The New International Version (NIV) is translated into today’s language. This version doesn’t stress my brain as much.

Although I have several Bibles, my favorite one is the Life Application Study Bible, New International Version. The Red Letter edition highlights all Jesus’ spoken words. Chapter tabs are helpful when finding chapters during Bible study.

The chapters of the Old and New Testaments are grouped in sections. The Old Testament includes Law (Genesis – Deuteronomy), History (Joshua – Esther), Poetry (Job – Song of Solomon), and Prophecy (Isaiah – Malachi). The New Testament includes Gospels (Matthew – John), History (Acts), Letters (Romans – Jude), and Prophecy( Revelations).

If you are an auditory learner, BibleGateway is a wonderful website offering the entire Bible in several versions and in spoken word. There is a dramatic version and even one read by an English man named Max. I enjoy listening while reading along. This also helps with all those difficult names of people and places.

It’s perfectly acceptable to highlight your Bible. Be sure to get a highlighter safe for the thin pages. Sold on Amazon, they are more of a colored wax that won’t bleed through the next three pages.

After finding a time of day that works for you, begin your journey. There are plenty of plans for completing the Bible in one year. I didn’t believe it would take me one year to finish the entire book until I started reading. Don’t give up. When the material gets too dense or confusing, take time to research and absorb the information as you can. It’s not a gym membership. If you take some breaks along the way, it’s not eternal failure.

Bible study is a journey, not a sprint. Starting with the Gospels is a great idea. These are four books that present the life and words of Jesus Christ. Written by four different men at different times, the four accounts tell the story of Jesus. Matthew and John walked with Jesus as apostles. Mark and Luke walked with Paul. As you read, think of the men that recorded theses ancient stories for us.

Bible study has become a source of strength and comfort in my life. I find daily guidance for everyday life. Through biblical knowledge, I find the strength to defend and share my faith. While studying, my heart and mind have changed as well as my thoughts, attitudes, and actions. The Bible is a beautiful way to start the day.

Ah, the church potluck—a sacred institution where faith, fellowship, and delicious casseroles come together. Whether a seasoned veteran or a first-time attendee, you should know a few unspoken rules and strategies before diving into the buffet line. Consider this your official guide to navigating the most blessed of all communal dining experiences.

Our church is a magical place where there’s no need for a potluck sign-up sheet. On the second Sunday of the month (even Super Bowl Sunday), the church members create a delicious, shareable meal. Some dishes remain the same, while new recipes come and go. Surprisingly, there’s always a balance between main dishes, salads, and desserts. Everyone comes together to create a beautiful spread.

A successful potluck contains the three fundamental food groups:

1. Casseroles – The ultimate potluck currency often made with condensed soup and topped with something crunchy.
2. Slow Cooker Mysteries – You will see at least four crockpots, (un-labeled), all plugged into a single overloaded outlet. Could be chili, could be meatballs, could be someone’s experimental stew best approached with both faith and caution.
3. Desserts That Defy Logic – Jello salads that somehow count as a side dish, brownies that disappeared before you even got in line, and an inexplicable cake covered in shredded coconut (because someone’s grandma insisted).

Finding a seat is like a high-stakes game of musical chairs. If you sit too early, you’ll get stuck watching everyone else eat first. Sit too late, and you’ll end up at the “kids’ table” with a toddler throwing mashed potatoes. It’s best to identify a strategic location near someone who brought good food. If you’re lucky, they might share their recipe. Make sure no one sits alone because making new friends is a real benefit to this gathering.

Here are some unwritten rules when it comes to pot-lucking.

• Thou shalt not start in the middle. Just get in line and wait your turn.
• Thou shalt take reasonable portions. Yes, Mrs. Johnson’s famous mac and cheese is life-changing, but leave some for others.
• Thou shalt not ask, “What is this?” in a loud voice. If you don’t know, just take a small sample, pray over it, and move on.

As the meal winds down, seasoned churchgoers know that there are only two types of leftovers:

1. The Dishes That Disappear Instantly – Someone’s homemade banana pudding? Gone. Those perfect deviled eggs? Vanished without a trace.
2. The Eternal Leftovers – That suspicious hot tuna casserole will sit, unclaimed, until someone takes pity and “accidentally” drops it on the way out. (Avoid bringing hot tuna to any enclosed space)

If you stay to help clean up, congratulations—you are now among the holiest of volunteers. Your reward? First dibs on any leftover pie and the eternal gratitude of the exhausted event organizer who is still trying to figure out who brought the unmarked crockpot and left it behind

Church potlucks are a beautiful mix of tradition, mystery, and the occasional gastrointestinal gamble. No matter what ends up on your plate, remember that the real blessing is the fellowship.

Whatever you do today, try to find an upcoming church potluck! There’s a good possibility it could be life-changing!

After discussing it for a few days, HHH and I are now the proud parents of a tiny, underwater kingdom that could test our patience, budgeting skills, and sanity. So far, we’re making it through the process with minimal trauma and maximum enjoyment. When we finished adding plants to our tropical jungle, the next logical addition was an aquarium.

Of course, the glass aquarium isn’t the only necessity. Purchases on our first trip to the pet store included the following:
✔ A filter (to prevent the water from looking like pea soup)
✔ A heater (for Tropical fish)
✔ A light (so we can see our fish instead of just guessing where they are)
✔ Gravel (fish deserve interior décor, too)
✔ Water conditioner (tap water is basically fish poison)
✔ A test kit (to better understand water chemistry)
✔ Decorations (because every fish deserves a plastic object behind which to hide)

HHH and I picked a place away from direct sunlight (to avoid an algae farm), not too close to a drafty window, and out of the way of anyone lacking spatial awareness (sadly, that’s me). We picked a spot that allows us to stare at our tank for hours instead of doing anything productive. A definite plus.

After washing the gravel to remove any dirt, HHH slowly filled the tank experiencing minimal spillage.

A 10-gallon tank isn’t an Olympic-sized swimming pool, so we kept it simple, while choosing the cutest little fish!
🐠 Neon tetras (tiny, colorful, and always throwing mini raves)
🐠 Guppies (the rabbits of the fish world—be prepared for babies)
🐠 Catfish (cute little bottom dwellers that clean up after their messy friends)

Once the tank cycled, HHH sloooowly introduced our new aquatic pals. They stared at us in confusion while we stared back, hoping they were happy. Given time, they’ve settled in quite nicely.

Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and filter cleanings are key. We’re hoping to cultivate a little algae. If our fish start acting weird, we’ll test the water, but if something starts to smell bad, it’ll be time to panic. Luckily, Leo, our local fish wizard, has promised to help with any problems we might experience.

We’re getting the hang of it. Our fish are recognizing us as the all-powerful Food Givers, and we spend more time watching them than Netflix. It’s strangely therapeutic. We might need a bigger tank… because everyone knows, a 10-gallon is only the beginning.

Tax season is that delightful time of year when I’d rather sit through dental extractions than figure out our tax returns. Like brave souls, HHH and I marched into our CPA’s office, papers in hand, ready to pay for the privilege of knowing if our return was right or wrong.

When widowhood was brand new in 2021, I needed a Certified Public Account. “There’s only one guy you want. He’s saved me bundles and he’s fabulous,” said my trusted friend. With hope and prayers, I put together a preliminary return and drove an hour west. Carefully, he looked everything over and assured me I’d done a wonderful job.

Since then, there have been far more complications with marriage, a rental, depreciation, and investments. EvenTurbo Tax groaned under the weight of it all. Waking up in terror, I caved and told HHH we’d need to see the tax man again. Surely this time, I couldn’t have things dialed in.

After snatching the last available appointments for 2025, we made our pilgrimage to the CPA’s office, clutching our collection of receipts and forms with the hope that this year, maybe, we did understand our tax situation. I handed him the preliminary tax return with the confidence I imagine a first-time skydiver has before jumping out of the plane: “I think I entered everything, but let’s see how this goes.”

He gave it a cursory glance, nodded a little, and then dropped the bombshell.

“Looks like your taxes are perfect already. Not much I could’ve improved here.”

Pause.

“Excuse me, what?” You could’ve knocked me over with a 2024 W-2. “Perfect? Are you sure? There are no mistakes? No hidden deductions I’ve missed? No random loophole I forgot to exploit?”

“Yes,” he shrugged, “you’re good. These returns are already flawless.”

I stared at him, stunned because this had only happened once before. Taxes aren’t supposed to be perfect. Taxes are always beginning with a mountain of paperwork while hoping Turbotax turns forms and receipts into a manageable return.

“Are you… sure?” I asked, trying not to sound like I was in denial. “You’ve actually checked everything? All deductions, credits, obscure tax laws from the 1800s?”

“Yes. Everything looks fine. Even your depreciation. Good Going!!!”

At this point, I’d just received an Award For Excellence in the form of our tax return. We went expecting tears, sweat, and at least one “I’ll have to file an extension” moment for our trouble. Naturally, we did what responsible adults would do: We started questioning him like we were the CPA.

“Are you sure my deductions are legit?” I asked again. “Is it possible that we could write off expenses for our honey business? (Which we never started, but did consider.) ”

He rolled his eyes like a seasoned tax professional who’s heard it all before. “Bee’s aren’t deductible unless you’re running a real business selling real honey. How many hives do you have?”

With that question, I was happy to return to earth explaining the only hive we did have died in the fall. HHH and I will be happy to submit a clean return without any business complications.

I wondered if we’d stumbled into some alternate universe where our taxes were actually… normal. Was this happening? Where was the drama? The intrigue? The stress of knowing that we might’ve accidentally claimed Wookie and Oliver as dependents? (Don’t ask, don’t tell…and no we didn’t)

The only thing remaining was an awkward silence as we considered the resolution without drama. It was like finishing a favorite show and realizing there was no cliffhanger. The writers didn’t bother, because they’d already wrapped things up neatly.

I left the office floating on a cloud. My CPA handed back our paperwork as if I was some kind of tax wizard. I guess this year I was the tax wizard.

Next year, I’m taking in a shoebox of receipts just to see if I can get him to sweat a little. Because, there’s no way taxes can ever truly be this easy, right?

The desert winter is overstaying its welcome. For months, we’ve been sitting here waiting for snow. No White Christmas arrived. There’s only been one day when we received 1/2 ” of snow. That’s pathetic. It HAS been bitterly cold and very, very sunny, tricking our brains into thinking it’s time for yard work. In reality, it’s just too cold. Glamour needs to wait. Hoodies and sweatpants are far more functional on the last day of January. Staying healthy after recovering from Influenza A takes more than avoiding winter’s chill.

These days, I’m I’m not getting enough sunshine. That’s where Vitamin D swoops in like the superhero it is. This wonder nutrient helps regulate your immune system and keep your mood lifted. So, if you’re feeling a little down because of the lack of daylight, grab some Vitamin D supplements or eat a few more fortified foods. If you’re brave enough, you could also try standing by a window for some glorious, albeit brief, sunshine.

Winter air on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada sucks the moisture right out of your skin. Stay hydrated, even when you don’t feel like it. Your favorite winter beverage might be hot chocolate or spiked cider but balance that out with some good ol’ H2O. Your skin and internal organs will thank you, and you might even avoid the dreaded ‘dried-up raisin’ look.

Here’s the tricky part: moving during winter. It’s tough when the thought of stepping outside makes you want to curl up like a cat on a window sill. You don’t need to run a marathon in the snow to stay fit. Indoor workouts, yoga, or even dancing like nobody’s watching can help you beat the winter blues. If you can somehow make it outside, snowball fights, sledding, or even a brisk walk in the fresh air will make you feel like a new person. If nothing else, at least you’ll get some fresh air before retreating to your couch, cocooned in a blanket.

Now that we’ve all agreed winter is a skin-sucking villain, let’s fight back! This is the season to slather on that luxurious lotion or balm and pretend you’re being pampered in a spa. I’m talking about full-on head-to-toe moisturizing, including your face, elbows, and even your feet (they deserve some love too). If your skin becomes flakey try a moisturizing scrub to bring it back to life.

Winter is the perfect time to focus on sleep habits. The long nights are the perfect time to catch up on the Zzzs you’ve been neglecting. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of restful sleep during the the next atmospheric river rolls. Bonus points if you can master the art of the cozy sleep environment: blackout curtains, warm blankets, and possibly an extra pillow to snuggle.

Lastly, winter wellness isn’t all about physical health – mental health matters, too. Try to stay lighthearted about the season’s challenges. But remember to laugh at the little things. A good laugh releases endorphins, and we could all use a little more of those during the winter months. Embrace the season with a smile… or at least a giggle when you fall down trying to make snow angels.

So, there you have it – maintaining winter wellness will help you endure endless months of snow and darkness. By staying hydrated, moving your body, embracing self-care, and even laughing through the snowstorms, you’ll greet spring in one piece. Winter is long, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Grab your fuzzy socks, take care of yourself, and enjoy the season for what it is – a time to cozy up, recharge, and remain healthy!

Growing up in a family of five girls in the mid-1900s, glamour was a huge part of our lives. How often we’d sit together at the kitchen table after attending a wedding. Critiquing every aspect of wedding attire, we were brutal. Was the bride’s dress properly altered? Did the dress match the shoes and gloves? What seamstress was used? What about the color scheme? All these were things that six women of that era found fascinating.

The oldest two sisters embraced glamour hook, line, and sinker. They posed so elegantly in angora sweaters and pearls for their senior pictures. They were also the two who were homecoming queens and majorettes. Their hair was perfect at all times, and they never left the house looking less than the young ladies they were expected to be.

Then, came the 70’s and me. Hot pants and mini skirts made my parents grey before their time. Homecoming Queens????? That was square. And so it went. The time for glamour and coordinated outfits gave way to tight jeans and chambray. I loved every bit of it.

My mother must be dancing in heaven now that I’ve finally decided to build a sustainable wardrobe. Living on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada, I’m going against the grain to revive the glamorous vibes of my older sisters. But where on earth will I start? Is it just about starting from scratch or is there some deeper, almost mystical about understanding fabric weights, content, and dye processes? Which clothing will spark confidence? What pieces are worthy and which ones must go?

Last week, I stepped into my closet to assess the situation. Opening that door like it was the entrance to Narnia, I prepared to meet old friends: five pairs of jeans that were two sizes too small, many slacks still tagged, and one “special occasion dress” that’s never made it to a special occasion. There buffalo-plaid flannel shirts in many colors and well-loved hoodies. All these are appropriate attire for my town. But, getting ready to sail away again, I need a new look. After all, glamour is fun, too.

Carefully holding each piece, I asked myself: “Does this bring me happiness, or does it bring me a sense of guilt from spending $$$ on a thing I wore once?” If it was the latter, I said goodbye. I donated wonderful bags of clothing to our local thrift while creating room for new additions.

Now, I plan to shop for quality pieces. Let’s face it, fast purchases are like a bad relationship—you get excited at first, but by the second wash, they’ve already started to fall apart. I plan to invest in timeless, durable pieces that will make me feel like the fashionista I was always meant to be.

I’m a huge fan of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool (especially cashmere). If buying something made from polyester, it better be a swimsuit used after a long summer day of gardening

Loving cashmere, the men’s sweater section is the first place I look when thrifting. Costo sold cashmere many moons ago and many sweaters live on. It’s a wonderful fiber that’s perfect for all kinds of weather. Kirkland Cashmere is a fabulous find.

What about accessories? You know that cool leather belt you’ve had for years? They are the final touch to your ensemble—and probably the thing that will get you the most compliments. Last week, I had fun going through old jewelry I’ve accumulated. Not having pierced ears, I especially love the selection of vintage clip-on’s Auntie TJ gifted me. I plan to keep them in mind when shopping for my new wardrobe. Vintage jewelry is another huge find when thrifting.

The true secret to building a workable wardrobe isn’t about being perfect. It’s about embracing what you already have while making conscious choices for additions. Choose colors that work well with your skin tone and fit in with your existing clothes.

Whatever you do, just begin. If you have ten of something, get rid of two. If those hoodies have seen better days, plan to donate them and find replacements. If you haven’t worn something for two years, it goes. Chuck those stretched-out tees. Don’t forget to sort through your shoes, as well.

Whatever you do, consider weeding your closet. On these cold winter days, there isn’t much going on in the garden!

The new year is a fresh slate on which to record upcoming goals. Of course, in the past, silly goals like learning to sing in French or reducing BMI in half by February have been included. With focus and planning, this year will be different because we’ll actually do it.

So, let’s kick off the goal-setting party in the most 2025 way possible—by acknowledging that goals are a lot like New Year’s Eve plans: they sound great in theory, but the execution is a different story. Here are some tips for setting and achieving goals this year, with a healthy mix of sarcasm, humor, and, hopefully, a little wisdom.

We all know the drill: the year begins with lofty dreams. You’ll definitely write that novel, learn to cook gourmet meals (beyond scrambled eggs), and give up coffee. But instead of aiming for perfection, let’s shoot for progress. You want to write a novel? After creating the all important outline, plan to write 500 words a week. Calendar all deadlines, keeping to your plan and before you know it, you’ll be at your first book signing.

No one ever achieved greatness by thinking, “Hey, I’m going to do a huge thing right now.” Sure, Elon Musk didn’t wake up one day and say, “I’m going to Mars,” but probably started by designing his first really fast car. Break your big goal into small, manageable steps. Want to run a marathon? Start by jogging to the end of the street and back while deciding if jogging is something you even enjoy.

Sometimes, the best way to make sure you stick to a goal is to make it absurdly easy. Instead of saying, “I’ll meditate for an hour every morning,” aim for 5 minutes. Five minutes is easy enough that you can’t use “I’m too busy” as an excuse. Then, when you realize how great you feel, you’ll may find yourself doing more. Or not. But hey, at least you didn’t fail completely!

Traditional accountability partners are friends who will remind you that you said you’d start eating healthier. So, just WHY are you eating pizza at 11pm on a Tuesday? This year, let’s get a little more creative. Try setting up a goal tracker that’s actually fun! Maybe you design a reward system where you earn lunch out for every 5 “mini-goals” met. Everyone can use a little reward once in a while.

The truth is, no one has a perfect track record when it comes to goals. You’ll miss a workout session. You’ll eat an entire bag of chips instead of that healthy snack you promised yourself. You’ll probably forget your French lessons for three months. Little setbacks are expected and okay. The important thing is to get back on track. If you fail, do it with flair. Then, get up, dust off, and try again.

Celebrating the little wins is critical. Finished reading a book? Give yourself a high-five. Went to the gym for 15 minutes? Reward yourself with something small, like an extra episode of your favorite show. It’s about progress, not perfection.

The tools available today can actually help achieve goals faster than ever before. Use a habit-tracking app, find inspirational YouTube channels, or binge-watch motivational TED talks. Useful information surrounds us. We only need to do a Google search to find motivational answers.

In the end, setting and achieving goals is all about consistency. You don’t need to change your life overnight. Improving 1% each day will mean accomplishments will wait for you at year’s end. Set that goal to run a marathon, write a bestseller, or drink more water (because hydration is key). Just remember: the best part of achieving goals is when you look back and realize how far you’ve come. And then maybe treat yourself to that pizza. You will have earned it.