The old golfers at the La Grange Country Club were a strange lot. I worked as a caddy during weekends in high school, but I was not one of the favored few who got chosen first to take off, doubled bagged, with the big tippers. Often, I just sat in the caddy shack waiting my …
I was the featured storyteller. The community room was large, with rows of chairs lined up. A “packed crowd” of 14 people showed up. Okay, it may have only been 12. My message was about how I can bring up happy memories from the past to get me out of a funk (when things …
Just this week, another close friend took off on me. Stan Jones, age 88, of Carson City, retired from his worldly duties and moved on to heaven. I love Stan, and I’m awed by all his accomplishments. Armed with a smile and twinkle in his eye, Stan made Carson City a better …
As much as I appreciate receiving holiday letters from friends and family, at first they made my 2023 seem rather humdrum. Sherry and I received dozens of holiday cards with delightful letters and pictures. I’ve never seen so many beautiful beaches. A whole slew of our …
(inspired by George Jones) Give me just one more day, Lord, and I promise: To eat the blackened banana and leave the yellow one for Sherry. To tell my three best friends I love them. To stop feeling sorry for myself, even when I’m hurting. To open doors for teenagers at the …
I’m observing. The place is a cozy wine bar in Reno, a place where older couples often meet for the first time after connecting online, sending attractive photos and serving up clever banter. She arrives first, choosing a table in the back corner facing the front door. She …
I can’t wait. Laughter and love will fill our little apartment. Dad will be placing the angel on top of our tree. The whole family will cheer and hope he doesn’t fall off the kitchen chair once again. Our friend, Clyde Reid, will be messing with the rabbit ears on top …
The latest studies from fancy universities are attempting to steal many of my favorite moments. I’m told I can’t eat chocolate milkshakes or Cinnabuns. A hot cup of coffee in the afternoon? No way. Can I bask in the sun? Not on my life. Now, research at Columbia University …
My mom, Irene, was a great cook. However, she had one conspicuous culinary flaw that weighed heavily on many parts of Story County, Iowa. She loved to make holiday popcorn balls. They were red and green and huge (think of the size of a croquet ball, then double it). There …
I think we all remember little kindnesses that drop on us like the first warm raindrops of a summer shower. I’m collecting 100 such kindnesses to put in a little book to share with friends and family. If you get in the mood, I’d appreciate if you send me one or a few of …
