Here is a great list of toys that every child needs. Don’t panic. These gifts won’t break the bank. Geek Dad Jonathan Liu posted The 5 Best Toys of All Time on Wired.com The list is his and can be read at his link. The comments on the list below are mine. Enjoy. 1. Stick

Writing is a skill as well as a gift. Some people are born with a flare and a love for writing. Some even feel compelled to write. And the good news is that your writing skill can be increased and enhanced by study and practice. Here are a couple of techniques designed to strengthen your

I have had the pleasure of speaking to more and more groups about Making Happy Happen in their lives. And the message has been very well received. I have to give a lot credit to my friend and colleague Deanne DeMarco. As many of you know, I have felt a calling for years as a

Vickie and Dave moved in next door when their youngest daughter, Randi, was 18 months old, exactly one week older than our Jane. When you are growing up, it just doesn’t get any better than having your best friend live right next door. The girls went through all kinds of milestones together: kindergarten, Brownies, going

I decided to get an early start on Thanksgiving. There are so many things to be thankful for that I am making a list. In alphabetical order, I am thankful for: The Arboretum — Just a few miles from my home is the Morton Arboretum. It is one of the most beautiful places I have

We have been redecorating with the thought of testing the real estate waters. If there is someone out there who wants to buy this house, we may be ready to downsize after 31 years! So far we have had the floors refinished and four rooms painted. That means that me have moved five zillion pounds

On Wednesday, I noticed two pretty little birds flying around the planters on our deck. They were smaller than robins, primarily black with white underparts. I have never been a bird watcher but these birds piqued my interest. Attempts to identify them on the internet fell flat so I am off to the library to

One of my favorite websites is dailywritingtips.com. Today that site taught me another interesting fact: In Greek mythology Hermes, son of Zeus and Maia, was not just the patron god of thieves, merchants, and boundaries. He was also a god of science, art, speech, eloquence, and writing.

This is a reminder to my friends in the Chicago area of  a professional development conference that will inspire you, empower you, and help you effectively deal with change, different personalities and stress in the workplace, sign up for Inspiring Women – a one day Women’s Conference today! I am honored to be included in

Aging with Grace, by David Snowdon Ph.D. includes this among many inspiring stories. Sister Nicolette, at age 93, had outlived all of her classmates. Snowdon asked her why she was “the last nun standing.” Her reply was that she had an exercise program, walking several miles every day. He then inquired when she had begun