I recently discovered the term “bird launching” to describe when almost-grown kids start to leave home (and not a hunting-dog training device, yeesh). So much lovelier than “empty nest” don’t you think? My nest is not empty yet, but my nestlings are spreading their wings. My eldest started college last year and enjoyed himself so…Continue reading Bird launching
Tag: parenting
The losing team
The college women’s basketball playoffs were incredible this past week. I am not usually much of a sports fan but local enthusiasm for LSU’s team in the Final Four was contagious. The players’ athleticism and teamwork bordered on the magical, and I loved their stylistic expressions on and off the court. My sports-minded family and…Continue reading The losing team
Happy Halloween
I love Halloween and all things creepy and weird. The main character in the book I’m working on now adores horror movies, which raises the question: why? According to Psychology Today, “When we get scared, we experience a rush of adrenaline and a release of endorphins and dopamine. The biochemical rush can result in a pleasure-filled,…Continue reading Happy Halloween
Mardi Gras 2022
Some days it’s hard to face the world. It’s a mess out there. Then Mardi Gras comes around, and the parades are rolling and bands are playing and people are gathering, unlike last year. And I remember what makes New Orleans special: not so much “The City that Care Forgot” but the courage and resilience…Continue reading Mardi Gras 2022
October musings
For several years now, I’ve considered October to be my creative new year, the time when I assess where I’ve been, where I’m at, and where I hope to go. The past few months have definitely brought this kind of thought process to the fore. In July, I turned 50. I’m proud of the many…Continue reading October musings