In honor of International Women’s Day, I wanted to share something empowering. Her Place at the Table: A Woman's Guide to Negotiating Five Key Challenges by Judith Kolb, Linda Williams, and Carol Frohlinger is a must-read for women looking to enhance their negotiating skills, leadership capabilities, and self-empowerment. This insightful book offers valuable strategies for overcoming the unique challenges women often encounter in the workplace, particularly for those aiming to advance in leadership roles and confront gender-specific obstacles. The authors focus on five key challenges women tend to face: self-promotion, authority, negotiation, bias, and work-life balance. 

Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May, a time dedicated to shedding light on the importance of mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. 

My family will tell you just how serious I am about my "treasures" – photos, kids' artwork, certificates, videos, and all the little mementos that capture the essence of our lives. To me, these tangible memories are more than just keepsakes; they are a way to hold onto moments that might otherwise slip away with time.

This month, my mom and her siblings remembered my dear grandmother, Joyce, on what would have been her birthday. As I thought about the array of emotions they must be feeling, I couldn't help but reflect on all the memories she created and the impact she had on our family. Though our family may not be as close as we once were, her presence still lingers in each of us. She wasn’t just a mother, grandmother; she was a grounding force who brought people together, even if only for a moment. The lessons she taught, the tough love she gave, and the laughter she sparked continue to resonate in our lives, even as time and distance have shifted our connections. Her memory is a reminder of how a single person can leave a lasting mark, and even though the family feels scattered, the pieces of her love and influence still exist in all of us. 

When I decided to start blogging regularly (and yes, I’m still working on building the discipline for a consistent posting schedule), one of my biggest concerns was figuring out what I would write about each week.

The holiday season fills me with joy—and a fair bit of distraction. After the excitement and bustle of the festivities fade, it’s a challenge to navigate through the gray, bone-chilling days of winter, bundled up in layers just to stay warm.

Lately, I’ve come across several studies that highlight a noticeable shift in generational priorities, particularly when it comes to relationships and marriage. More and more, young people seem to prioritize their careers, personal growth, and financial independence over getting married.

Various studies reveal that the most common New Year’s resolutions revolve around health/fitness and finances. These are also at the top of my list as I focus on living a healthier lifestyle and building financial security for the next phase of my life—whether it’s building emergency funds, contributing to my grandchildren's education, traveling more, ensuring a comfortable retirement, or even remodeling my home (or possibly moving).

With so many On-Demand, streaming services, and cable channels offering a smorgasbord of Christmas classics, it can feel like there’s no end to the festive viewing options. And while I’ll always have a soft spot for the timeless classics, there are a few newer releases that have found their way into my seasonal rotation — and maybe they’ll make their way into yours, too.

During the holiday season, I’m reminded of how truly blessed I am. While there are always things I could want, do, or become, I try to focus first on how far I’ve come and the blessings I’ve received. Still, my heart aches for those less fortunate, and I often find myself wishing I could do more to help.

As the holiday season approaches—whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or another celebration—I find myself reflecting on the passage of time in a way that only this time of year can inspire. The crisp air, the twinkling lights, the familiar songs—all of it naturally prompts introspection. It’s a season that encourages me to take stock of where I’ve been, where I am now, and where I’m headed. And if I’m being honest, there’s been a lot of change. Watching my children grow up, welcoming grandchildren into the world, adjusting to shifting roles within our family, and feeling the bittersweet ache of missing loved ones who are no longer with us—these moments remind me that change is both inevitable and, at times, uncomfortable, but always present.