Blogger Category Page

Dave Donelson is a writer, photographer, and artist with some three million words in print. His works appear regularly in over three dozen national publications and he is the author of numerous books of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and memoir. Today’s poem, Passion, comes from Dave’s book, Visions of a Certain…

By Kathleen M. Rehl, Ph.D., CFP®, CeFT® Emeritus   The last few minutes of my late husband’s life were the most intimate we ever experienced—quiet moments where words were unnecessary, replaced by the warmth of holding hands and a shared presence that spoke more deeply than language. Just a month…

By Katherine Schneider, Ph.D.   I’m an active volunteer in my community and parish, but I despise asking for and taking help. If you’re with me so far, read on!   Having been blind since birth, you’d think I’d be an expert in accepting help (at least disability-related help)! If…

By Susanna P. Barton   Getting older is a wonderful privilege and we can all do a better job embracing the positives. In addition to assuming new roles as grandparents, mentors, seasoned specialists, and leaders, we get to celebrate our wrinkles and refined appearance and account for all the incredible…

By Lance A. Slatton   When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it presents a significant shift for both the individual and his or her family. Unlike traditional aging issues that might require help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, or eating, dementia care requires…

By Alice Herb   As many readers already know, I was hospitalized in early May. By the time I got my head around my being sick, I was discharged and told to go about my life. Which I have. But now I have had some time for reflection and want…

By Louise Applebome   Oct. 7, 1975:   “Well here I go attempting another journal. This time I feel like I’ll enjoy continuing it because the idea was proposed by someone I have the most respect and admiration for.”   That first entry in a black, leather-bound journal, on unlined…

By Susanna P. Barton   Make no bones about it, pets make us happier, healthier humans – throughout life and especially during our second half.  A recent report from the American Psychiatric Association shows 86% of participants believe pets have a mostly positive impact on their mental health.  A 2019…

By Renee Langmuir   Recently, I attended the 50th Anniversary of my beloved ballet school, The Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet. The event was marked with performances of alumni who have gone on to professional dance companies and speeches from key players in the school’s history.   The first speech, by…

By Nancy Peckenham   Back in the winter of 2018, I had a revelation. I was spending long days with my 100-year-old mother at her assisted living residence and witnessed how many residents in their 80s and 90s led multi-faceted, upbeat lives. Tired stereotypes of older people fell away before…