This post is part of my cornerstone content, written years ago and updated for inspiring wisdom and deep understanding today. One afternoon, many years ago, while sitting in my kitchen with a lady friend, we enjoyed a cup of tea while our sons played in the other room. Our conversation became deeper than most and, eventually, we both realized at the exact moment. “You can’t dig yourself out of the pit of despair. You must feed your soul and grow yourself out.” I can still remember feeling like the top of my head was opening up, all tingly with the sparks from the epiphany burningRead More →

a woman pictured from the chest up holds her head and scowls in frustration.

How do you create a life worth living in a world that feels like it’s already crammed with responsibilities, plans, and projects? Most of us start as children going to school, aiming to get good grades to make our parents happy. Then, as we get older, we focus on getting a good-paying job to afford a nice car and a house, thinking that will bring us joy and satisfaction. Eventually, we start to realize despite all the time and hard work we’ve put in striving to reach the “next level,” we’re still not happy. I’m sure I’m not the only person who woke up oneRead More →

After last week’s wedding weekend with my family in Little Rock, Arkansas, I keep thinking about this song. On November 6, my cousin, Sarah, married her sweetie, Trent, surrounded by friends and family. The ceremony was lovely, and the reception was an absolute BLAST!! We had all been looking forward to this celebration since before Covid. Now, with the vaccine, we were glad to get together finally. Lots of people, including me, flew in from around the country. One guy even came in from Canada. Sarah set up a FB live link to watch the ceremony for those who couldn’t attend. I sat with myRead More →

This week’s song comes from Bruno Mars. Whenever I need to clear out my thoughts and feelings, this song does the trick. Mental Hygiene Just as we brush our teeth twice a day to keep our mouth clean, mental hygiene keeps our minds clear and healthy. When anxious feelings or thoughts of despair start to poison our attitude, practicing good mental hygiene reminds us to replace them with more valuable and productive ideas. Get up and Dance, shaking loose the stuck and making room for the new. Sing to clear out the throat and sometimes talking to someone can help us work through what hasRead More →

This week’s song comes from the Avett Brothers. With a light, steady rhythm, the lyrics remind us to stay tuned into the truth within ourselves. “Ain’t no man can save me. Ain’t no man can enslave me. Ain’t no ‘mount of man that can change the shape my soul is in.” Each one of us has a soul with which we can sail through the seas of life. Don’t let the worry, fear, and drama from other people steal the wind from your sails. “There ain’t nobody here, who can cause me pain or raise my fears ‘cuz I’ve got only lo-o-o-ve to share! IfRead More →

This song always gives me the chills whenever I hear it come on the radio. (I know, I’m old school still listening to music over the airwaves!) Although John Lennon and Paul McCartney first wrote and performed this song, I’ve always loved the Joe Cocker version because he was inspired by them. As we head into this week, let’s take a few minutes to think about how we show love and appreciation for our friends and family. Our daily lives get filled up so quickly with drama, responsibilities, and challenges. It’s important we remember we’re not sailing through these stormy seas all by ourselves. WeRead More →

I’ve decided to start posting an “inspirational” song every week to offer a jump-start to your spirit, giving you (and me) a kick in the pants, a boogie for your bunda, and a bit of swing in your swagger. “Music… will help dissolve your perplexities and purify your character and sensibilities, and in time of care and sorrow, will keep a fountain of joy alive in you.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer I hope you enjoy this song. Let me know if you have another suggestion in the comments below. Have an excellent Monday and a wonderful week ahead. xoxo Pam p.s. Follow me on Instagram to see theRead More →

This post is part of my cornerstone content, written years ago, updated today, inspiring wisdom and deep understanding.  Imagine, for a moment, driving along at night, heading toward a new restaurant for dinner. It’s dark, so you’ve turned on your headlights. Since you’ve never been there before, you probably looked at directions ahead of time and maybe even turned on your GPS. With your special someone sitting in the passenger seat, and music on the stereo, you’re enjoying yourself and looking forward to a lovely evening ahead. The chances are pretty good as long as you stay present and pay attention to the road, you’llRead More →

After self-publishing my book, I immediately realized I needed to write another. You’re the Boat uses the elements of a ship to help people see themselves. For example, your heart is the ship’s wheel, strength is your mast, and the sail is your soul. The beautiful lady on the front is your face. While talking to a guy at a restaurant about my book, he asked, “So, what does the ship’s bell stand for?” Feeling the warm wash of embarrassment flow over my body, I realized I’d missed something fundamental. In my rush to get through the challenge of publishing the book, I’d forgotten toRead More →

This post is part of my cornerstone content, written years ago, updated for today, and still inspiring wisdom and deep understanding. Many years ago, when my son was in elementary school, and my husband traveled a lot for work, I volunteered in my community, putting on events including the Beets, Beats & Eats Farmer’s market. Although I stopped in 2013, the years I spent working with friends in my community were some of the best in my life. (2021) (Originally written in 2012) Every summer, I put on a coloring contest called Enjoy the Process. It’s the one where everyone fills in this shape and thenRead More →