Why I Loathe Mid-March
For the twenty-fifth year in a row it’s that week again- -mid-March- -or, as it is known in my immediate family, the week that everybody died. Not all in the same year, mind you. Dad went first, March 13, 1994. How can that be, when I can still see and hear him...
Pure Vice
Ever have one of those days when you wake up resolved to do everything you’re supposed to do and then, sometime in the morning after two cups of coffee, a workout, breakfast and various social media chores, you find yourself saying, “Nah. I don’t wanna.”? Yesterday...
Winter Survival 201: Palcohol, Anyone?
Greetings from Walla Walla, WA, the alleged “Banana Belt” of Eastern Washington. Known for its mild winters (hah!) Walla Walla is, at present, experiencing a month-long snow siege. Thank goodness February is a short month. If you’re like me, you’re an absolute...
My New Superpowers
There’s a lot of talk about superpowers these days. Which are the top 10 coolest? Which are the top 10 best? Frankly, I don’t have enough time in my day to deploy 10 superpowers, but I have acquired a few gems as of late. First and foremost, I have...
The Subject is Ban-Lon
It’s a huge transition from wife to widow, with many small steps along the way and some interesting discoveries. For example, Bruce’s closet. I was looking through his things for warm shirts to donate to the local homeless shelter when I happened upon a relic from...
Déjà vu Winter
Yesterday, when I was waiting at the bus stop, it occurred to me I’d been here before. Not at the bus stop per se, but in the sub-freezing temperatures and snow in Walla Walla. The déjà vu winter moment sent me right back to the winter of 1978-79. Of course,...