Storms and difficulties of all kinds and sizes come our way. From simple doldrums or times of discouragement, to life’s great storms and even pandemics. And they can really start to get us down. Many of life’s problems are extremely serious, like the events of the past few years, from pandemics to financial crises toContinueContinue reading “Ten Upbeat Ways to Beat the Blues”
Tag Archives: gratitude
But What About the Memories?
Imagine coming home from the store to find your house leveled! That’s just what happened to one Michigan couple. A demolition crew had been given the wrong address, and all that was left of a grandmother’s old home was a cement slab. But the amazing thing was their attitude! No anger, just a calm shrug ofContinueContinue reading “But What About the Memories?”
Old and Abandoned: On Homes Forgotten
As we travel around the countryside, old abandoned houses like this one are a common sight. And they always fill my heart with sadness. A sort of longing for what must have been. I imagine cozy families gathered around the hearth, children playing in the garden. And whole families gathering produce from once-flourishing fields andContinueContinue reading “Old and Abandoned: On Homes Forgotten”
After Lockdown
We’ve been in and out of lockdowns here in Italy more times than I can count. And while they’ve varied in severity, they all have a few things in common. They’re inconvenient and unpleasant. But even worse, they’ve stolen our personal freedom and liberty. And from my observations, they haven’t worked. Thankfully, there were fewerContinueContinue reading “After Lockdown”
The Benefits of Community
Our favorite pizzeria/restaurant of choice is The Red Wolf or Lupo Rosso. And some of our friends here wonder why because it’s a simple place. Nothing fancy or elegant, but the food is excellent. And we tell them, “It’s all about community.” And to us that’s much more important than elegance! It’s a come-as-you-are kindContinueContinue reading “The Benefits of Community”
Lockdown Isolation: Challenges and Blessings
Italy’s streets and piazzas are usually full of people, even in the evening. But with the lockdown all that has changed. An eerie silence has settled over the strangely unpeopled streets and towns. Except for the car that goes through town every day with a loudspeaker broadcasting the order to stay indoors. That’s the finalContinueContinue reading “Lockdown Isolation: Challenges and Blessings”