Chicago: Big City, Big Fun

If you’re a lover of skyscrapers, architecture, and historic buildings, Chicago is a great place to visit. If you’re a foodie with an even more insatiable appetite for good shopping, then Chicago is an even better place to visit! I’ve heard lots of people refer to Chicago as their favorite city; it didn’t take much … More Chicago: Big City, Big Fun

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Her Breath on My Cheek: Mom’s kiss was just the Christmas gift I needed

The past week or so has been a whirlwind of activity with holiday events and work activities (sometimes with the two rolled up into one), filling up my days…and evenings…and early mornings. Fun? You bet. But even the excitement of celebrating professional successes and spending time with friends I adore can make this girl tired … More Her Breath on My Cheek: Mom’s kiss was just the Christmas gift I needed

Managing Holiday Stress Keeps the “Merry” in Christmas

Published in Bakersfield Life Magazine, December 2015 Remember the days when Christmas meant classroom parties and loads of sweet treats (goodies you didn’t have to make)? And maybe you wondered how Santa would get your presents down the chimney (but you knew he’d manage, so it wasn’t really a worry at all). Whatever your childhood … More Managing Holiday Stress Keeps the “Merry” in Christmas

Dealing With Grief During the Holiday Season

Originally published in Bakersfield Life, November 2015 As an only child, I treasured our holiday gatherings, filled with my large and animated extended family. As an adult, I appreciate those get-togethers even more. But now, there’s an empty chair at our holiday table. Even while part of me is looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas, … More Dealing With Grief During the Holiday Season

In Honor of My Friend and Mentor…and Boss of Long Ago

I learned today that my friend and mentor of 27 years…my former boss…has lost his life to a battle with leukemia. I count myself lucky to have considered Steve Ruggenberg a “forever friend,” and mentor at the times I have needed it most: early in my career, and recently as I explore my passion for … More In Honor of My Friend and Mentor…and Boss of Long Ago

I Love New York! How to Plan a NYC Vacation Your Whole Family Will Love

Mention you’re planning a trip to New York City and folks will be quick to tell you how much they love it or…how much they loathe it! A whirlwind girls’ trip whetted my appetite for the city years ago and I knew then: I fall in the “love it” column! Since then, I’ve wanted to … More I Love New York! How to Plan a NYC Vacation Your Whole Family Will Love

Injuries Put Runners on the Sidelines and We Don’t Like It!

Tomorrow morning I will be on the sidelines. When the alarm buzzes at 4:00 a.m., I won’t have to get up (but I will). I won’t have to pull on my running clothes and make sure my bib is pinned on my shirt (is it straight?). I won’t have to elbow my way through thousands … More Injuries Put Runners on the Sidelines and We Don’t Like It!