In this magical season of glitter and gifts, of wrapping paper, cards, and mad rushes to find that “perfect” present, there is a place for quiet gratitude. Along with the bare trees, bright stars, and snow-covered lawns—in all the madness, there is peace and appreciation. Appreciation of what we have, a desire to remember others…

I struggle with gratitude. Here’s the thing. I am thankful. For so much in my life. For the wonderful people, opportunities, relationships that have brought me joy. And for the challenges—oh those challenges—that have propelled my growth.   And I know that when I consciously appreciate all that I’m grateful for, when I speak it,…

Isabel Cotarelo is definitely an amazing woman over 50! A young artist, full of dreams—and a fellowship—she came to the United States from Argentina when she was in her 20s. Please join me in learning about Isabel’s adventures in self-reinvention in art, family, work, and food! Isabel, a wonderful cook and cooking teacher, shares some…

Have you ever had the feeling that the Universe was trying to tell you something?  Events in your life—big or small—occurred that you just couldn’t get out of your mind?   They were close together in time and felt confusing or hurtful. In some way, those events felt oddly similar, but you struggled to discern…

I met Marjorie Waterman in a Facebook writing group. When I heard a bit about her life’s journey, I just knew I had to ask her share it in WomanPause. Thankfully, she graciously agreed to an interview! Marjorie is an amazing example of a life-long learner. She has done important work for Job Corps, in…

If posed with the question, “Which do you strive to be—brave or perfect,” I would guess that most people would answer “brave.” Perfection is not something to strive for. Achieving perfection is, after all, impossible … right?   Right. Perfection is an impossible state. But that doesn’t mean we don’t strive to reach that state—even…

A few weeks ago, a wonderful online literary journal accepted an essay I submitted. I was thrilled! But when I received a link to the soft launch of the issue, my heart dropped. A section of what I wrote had been changed. Now, this is not unusual. Editors makes changes to author’s work all the…

Mireya Vela! Strong, courageous, all around amazing woman! I met Mireya at Antioch and loved her immediately! She is a terrific writer and visual artist, activist, researcher and mom. Mireya has taken her experiences with childhood abuse and transformed them into art. Her current collection of essays Vestiges of Courage is a stunning testament to the…

I am so excited to say that this month—yes, this very September—marks the one-year anniversary of WomanPause! And What a Year It’s Been!   What a Year It’s Been!   First, I want to thank you all for coming along with me on this wonderful journey! Writing pieces with the aim of offering you something…

Ana Maria Spagna is definitely one of my sheroes. She’s a great model for following your passions, stepping into the scary places, and for living with the utmost integrity. Ana Maria was a writing mentor of mine at Antioch, Los Angeles. She’s a wonderful teacher, who’s generous and thoughtful with her feedback, and who always…