More and more older women are discovering a new voice: one that embraces a newfound freedom. Sharon Blackie, author of Hagitude, ...

Black Women Writers Who Opened My Eyes
Young Black women writers are making huge inroads in literature, critical thinking and memoirs. In many ways their path was paved by the revolutionary writings of Black feminists who gained a national audience in the ‘70s and ‘80s. This was the period that shaped my feminism. I was young and newly exploring feminism. Initially my readings [...]
Florida Return, Granddaughter Jane, Elizabeth Warren & More!
Back in Florida About ten days ago I returned to Florida, this time to Lake Worth, a sleepy community near Palm Beach. Lake Worth has an unhurried vibe with a sweeping beach, a funky movie house and lots of outdoor eateries. My oldest son visited for a few days when we visited the nearby Morikami Gardens, six gardens, built around a lake, [...]
Facing Our Fears
“I’m terrified of what Trump is doing to our country.” “I’m frightened of the climate my grandchildren will inherit.” “I can hardly bear to read the news any more. Each day seems to bring another disaster.” These are concerns I frequently hear from friends. Many days I feel the same way, but I also recognize that giving [...]
Aging May be a Laughing Matter After All . . .
Did you know it’s believed that a sense of humor can increase your life span? Thoughtful aging tends to stress diet and exercise, having a sense of purpose and close, nurturing relationships while frequently overlooking the benefits of humor. I’m not referring to humor which is mean-spirited, but humor used to alleviate frustration with [...]
Key West Memories, “The Cave,” Joy in Dark Times
Key West Memories Sharing some photos from my recent trip to Key West. The first is from a women’s art exhibit depicting Rachel Carson, a pioneer in the environmental movement, with the new leadership under Greta Thunberg, the young climate activist. The following image is of a painting I bought by Michael Palmer, a Key West artist. [...]
Don’t Give Up!
If you care about justice and human dignity, last week was a very bad week. The Senate’s impeachment trial turned into a farce. While we were distracted by the Senate’s circus, Trump was busy adding to his list of egregious crimes: gutting the clean water act and adding six African countries to his travel ban. As our country morphs [...]
Adventure with My Father-in-Law
GUEST POST by JANET WEIL “You’re taking your walker, right?” I kept my voice low-key, but I really wanted my 98-year-old father-in-law to use his “Cadillac” four-wheeler for our short walk. “I guess so,” Bob replied, and we set out for our lunch date, the monthly gathering of Yale alumni in Portland, Oregon. Knowing my interest [...]
Learning to Love Our Older Faces
A professional photographer once told me, “Every time I photograph an older woman she says, “Make me look 20 years younger.” I incredulously responded, “Every time?” ‘Yes, every time,” he replied. What a sorry state for aging women! How can we enjoy old age if we hate the faces that accompany it? I realize not every older [...]
Key West, Susan Collins, New Films & More!
Key West I’m now enjoying my second week in Key West, indulging in the warm weather, while I read and write, feeling grateful for my winter escape. Here are a few Key West images taken on my walks. Roosters are everywhere and they crow all day long! The sign on the house in the bottom right photo says, “Key West Hunting Lodge.” [...]
Enlarging the Corner
GUEST POST by MICHAEL STEINMAN Every morning, Benjamin Franklin asked himself, “What good shall I do today?” My answers are variations on a theme: spread joy, be kind, think of others. For nearly six decades, my pole star has been Louis Armstrong, who made people happier, who gave generously of himself. His joy, his art, and his livelihood [...]