The Impact of Fall

Fall has had quite an impact on me this year. On the very last day of our fabulous river cruise, I came down with a cold — not a huge surprise given everything that comes with travel (including one person who was openly hacking up a lung the entire trip).

Thankfully, I didn’t get sick until the end. The long journey home from Germany to Seattle was rough, and by the time we arrived, my husband, Tim, had caught cold too. My cold turned into a double ear infection and then pneumonia. There were three trips to the clinic, one long day in the ER, plenty of medication, gallons of fluid and zero energy. I also lost my voice for seven days straight. I suspect Tim might have enjoyed the peace and quiet if he hadn’t been sick too!

The days blurred together: sleep, medicine, food, more rest, repeat. I had to cancel all my work for the month. Eventually, depression visited for several days.

Without being asked, our wonderful neighbors sprang into action. They showed up with food! They checked in often, offered help, and brought more meals. When we missed the annual Halloween cul-de-sac potluck, they delivered enough food for two more days, along with a soggy (thanks to the Atmospheric River of rain) but adorable get-well card signed by the partygoers. Family and friends reached out often, reinforcing how lucky and loved we are.

As my health fell behind, my heart grew bigger. I felt deep gratitude for the compassion of friends, family, and healthcare people who helped us heal. Connection, kindness, and love are as essential to recovery as rest, chicken soup, and medicine.

These are overwhelming and troubling times — for our communities, our nation, and the world. But imagine what could happen if each of us cared just a little more. If we were a bit kinder. If we did one small thing for someone else. A warm smile and a kind word can change everything.

Let’s do it!

Kindness in Action

Here’s your invitation for the week: find one small way to put kindness into motion. Send a quick text to check in, drop off a meal, or simply share a smile with someone who needs it. Then, notice how it feels — in your body, your mood, your heart.

Healing — for ourselves and our communities — begins with these quiet, intentional gestures. Each small kindness adds up. It doesn’t have to be grand, it just has to be genuine. Every simple act makes life a little lighter for someone, and that light gets

passed along to another and another...

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

Maya Angelou

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Tiny Self-Care Tip

World Kindness Day is November 13. Mark the day by reaching out to a friend - text, call, send a card…Notice how connecting makes both of you feel good.

Keep up your connections by scheduling time on your calendar weekly to connect with the people that matter in your life.

What I’m Reading

We will be finishing up "The Let Them Theory," by Mel Robbins, on our upcoming book club call. See the details below to join.

Here’s to healing — and helping each other along the way.

European Adventure

I got a little off track with sending my October newsletters — life has a way of changing our plans!

A lot has happened over the past 45 days. I had an amazing trip to Germany and France — truly a trip of a lifetime! I loved experiencing the culture, history, and food. I discovered schnitzel, October beer, and New Wine in charming German towns. I savored relaxing and cruising down the Rhine and Seine rivers.

Of course, travel isn’t always picture-perfect. The long plane rides to and from Germany felt endless, and my suitcase decided to take its own adventure for a few days! The crowds at Notre Dame, Monet’s Gardens, the Louvre, and the Opera House were irritating at times — and then I’d turn a corner and see something so breathtaking that everything else simply fell away. I must have said “beautiful” a thousand times, and still it didn’t come close to capturing how I felt. Again and again, I found myself in awe.

What fascinated me most was how these countries weave their past into their present. Everywhere seemed to honor, respect, and cherish their history — not just the last hundred years, but centuries of it. Notre Dame, completed in 1260, stands even more radiant after its recent restoration.

Being surrounded by so much history and beauty had an unexpected effect on me. Sometimes I felt small — even insignificant — in the face of it all. Looking at cathedrals and timeless works of art can do that.

I found myself wondering: What will my legacy be? How will I be remembered? What difference will I make?

As I wrote this, I realized that the past several Octobers brought me many challenges. Each year seems to force me to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. Some people do this around their birthday or at the new year. For me, October is a time to look inward and make sure I’m still aligned with what matters most.

I invite you to do the same. Take a few moments to reflect: What will your legacy be?

How do you want to be remembered? What small thing can you do — today — to make a difference?

We may not build cathedrals, but we can still leave beauty behind in our kindness, courage, and connection.

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Tiny Self-Care Tip

You don’t need a passport to escape — just close your eyes. Picture a place that brings you peace: a quiet beach, a cozy cabin, a café by the river. Take a slow breath in and imagine being there — the sounds, the air, the calm. Even a two-minute mental getaway can refresh your spirit.

What I’m Reading

“The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, I’m intrigued by her theory that ”the key to happiness, success, and love is as simple as two words, Let Them and this book will show you exactly how to do it.”

Check it out and join me for book club!

Until next time, keep tending your journey and savoring life’s moments.

Stepping into September Part 2

In my last newsletter, I talked about choosing your perspective—picking the right

“shoes” for the path ahead. But once we’ve chosen them, the next question is: where do we walk in them?

Without a vision of what we really want in life, we drift. It’s natural to get caught up in our day-to-day responsibilities and routines and lose sight of what’s important to us. Vision is different than our goals - vision is bigger. When we know what our vision is, and can make decisions based on that vision, we feel better. It doesn’t mean it’s easier – sometimes it’s harder because we’re doing what’s right for us, rather than what’s easier.

Vision is one of my favorite areas to work with – personally and with individuals. I struggled with finding my vision because I was making it way harder than necessary! It’s like happiness. Sometimes the harder you pursue it, the more it evades you. Relax and listen closely. Once it speaks to you, you’ll begin to get more clarity on what you really want.

I invite you to take that first step into your vision. I promise it’s worth it!

For more information on vision, here's my handout.

Tiny Self-Care Tip

Whenever you put on your shoes, pause and reflect on how you can walk gently, kindly, and intentionally with yourself.

What I'm Reading

“The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, I’m intrigued by her theory that ”the key to happiness, success, and love was is as simple as two words, Let Them and this book will show you exactly how to do it.”

Check it out and join me for book club!

The Coaching Corner

One theme that’s been coming up repeatedly is the desire for real connection with others. I’m not talking about ‘surface’ conversations, but the kind of depth that makes us feel seen, valued, and loved. From people in their 20s to their 80s, I hear how hard it is to make good friends. I really want to hear your thoughts on this. What’s your experience? Where have you been successful in building deeper, real connections? Let me know and next month I’ll share some tips in the newsletter.

Do you have a question or topic you’d like me to address? Send me an email and let me know. Wherever your steps take you this month, be kind, be intentional, and remember—you don’t have to take the journey alone.

Stepping into September

There’s a special excitement that visits me in September.  Possibility and growth speak to me a little louder.  It’s when I pause and ask, “Am I living the life I want?  What do I want to change?  Do I need new shoes?”

I’m not literally talking about shoes (though I do sometimes buy new shoes in September!).  What I mean is, “Do I have the right shoes for the next steps I want to take in my life?”  

We change. We grow.  Some years bring more scuff marks.  Some wear through our soles and souls.  Sometimes, we just need to change shoes for the next part of our journey.  

There are a lot of choices.  I could choose sparkly high heels, cowgirl boots, bunny slippers, tap shoes, walking shoes, or even no shoes at all – just going bare foot.  Each choice reflects how I want to show up in my life.  

This September I choose to be brave.  I choose a glossy purple pump with a wide heel – strong enough to support me while I stand tall, bold enough to help me shine in the spotlight.  It is classic, bright and speaks of courage.

Yes, these fit me perfectly for what’s ahead.

What shoes will you choose to step into this September? I’d love to hear from you.

"Even the smallest shift in perspective can reveal an entirely new world of possibility." - Unknown

Tiny Self-Care Tip

Shoe Swap – Literally change your shoes midday. Going from sandals to sneakers or slippers signals a fresh step and can shift your energy.

What I’m Reading

“The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins teaches you how to stop wasting energy on what we can’t control and start focusing on what truly matters:  YOU!  

“Journey to the Heart” by Melody Beattie 

After I do my morning journaling, I read her daily writings. The book is full of my sticky notes and the pages are marked up with my notes. I’ve quoted her wisdom, given the book as a gift and am always thrilled at how the right lesson appears to me at the right time.  Some would say that’s synchronicity or quantum physics. I prefer to think it’s magic!

The Coaching Corner 

For me, one of the best things about coaching is hearing people’s stories. Sometimes they are in a challenging chapter of their life and talk about their anger, pain, or grief. Sometimes they are in happier chapters and talk about their dreams, growth, and happiness. It is an honor and a privilege to witness people; to really be with them; to hear and see them; to laugh with them; to help them face their fears.  

I’m often asked how I can do grief work. “Isn’t it sad?” Yes, sometimes it is. Sometimes I can feel my heart cry out. AND… it is the most amazing thing to witness and hold space for the process of a person going from broken to lost to healing to growth. It is the most honest and satisfying work I’ve ever done. Real people are teaching me about real life. It’s a gift I cherish.

Do you have a question or topic you’d like me to address? Send me an email and let me know.

One last thought “Cinderella is proof that a new pair of shoes can change your life.” – unknown

Maybe I’ll run into you at the shoe store!

The Liminal Space of Illness

August is a liminal space of in-betweenness – not summer, not fall. Today I’m sharing how a medical condition or crisis is its own kind of liminal space.

When a medical crisis appears — for us or a loved one — it disrupts the status quo. While we try to understand what is happening and what to do, life shifts into an in-between state. We remain in that space until we are ready to cope, adjust, and grow from the changes we face.

Every time we experience a change or transition, we cross a threshold.

Every time we learn something new, we cross a threshold.

Every time we choose, we cross a threshold.

These thresholds of waiting and not knowing what comes next are everywhere in life — and they are inevitable. Each crossing interrupts and disorients us for a while, regardless of our awareness or skills.

How do you know if you’re in a liminal space? A liminal space often includes:

1. Separation from your usual group of peers.

2. Change in social status or position in the social hierarchy.

3. Shifts in self-identity, bringing disorientation and lack of clarity.

4. Waiting, wondering “now what?”

5. A sense of transition without a clear destination.

For example, a person leaves their home and goes into the hospital. They receive treatment and ‘live’ alongside others who are ill. They have little or no control of basics. They wear clothes that define their status. They give up their valuables. Their schedule is dictated by staff and tests. They stay until they’re declared well enough to leave.

For many, their “healthy” life has ended. As a medical coach, I help them navigate into a new life and a different relationship with their illness. We use the liminality of illness as an opportunity to rebalance emotions, mourn what has been lost, make room for what is changing, and step with intention across the threshold into what comes next.

Even in the discomfort of in-betweenness — whether it’s August on the calendar or a season of illness in your life — there is quiet work happening. The waiting, the wondering, and the uncertainty are not wasted. They are shaping you, preparing you for the moment you’re ready to cross the threshold into what comes next.

Tiny Self-Care Tip

Give yourself permission to linger.

Liminal spaces are the “in-between” — not where you were, not yet where you’re going.

Instead of pushing for answers or rushing forward, try simply being. Brew a cup of tea. Sit on the porch. Let the in-between be enough, just for a moment. Try it and let me know what you think!

“Liminal space is where all transformation takes place, if we learn to wait and let it form us.” —Richard Rohr

What I’m Reading

1. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield – A short, simple read. The title says it all.

2. Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be also by Steven Pressfield – how to get out of your rut and into action.

“Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere. And sometimes, in the middle of nowhere, you find yourself.” Unknown

A Doorway to the Past

August feels like a doorway month—summer still lingers, yet we can sense the subtle shift toward fall. The days remain warm, and mornings and evenings carry cool hints of change. There’s a flutter of last-minute summer activities before the pace begins to turn. Back-to-school lists appear, and the air carries that familiar buzz of new beginnings.

When I was younger, I loved back-to-school shopping—list in hand, hunting for the best bargains on the best supplies. These days, my shopping looks different. I find myself choosing crayons, scissors, backpacks, and notebooks for children I will never meet. It feels good to imagine a child, with a nervous smile, heading into a new school year with new supplies and opportunities.

It’s been many years since I’ve walked into a traditional classroom, but just thinking about it brings back the scent of school—chalk dust (yes, that dates me!), fresh markers, and the unmistakable cafeteria blend of warm rolls, mystery meat, and the faint tang of disinfectant. (Maybe I should have left that part out!)

For years now, my “classrooms” have been online, where all I need is a comfortable chair, a strong internet connection, and a big cup of coffee.

Still, the memories linger—yellow school buses with noisy airbrakes, the cacophony of sounds spilling from the music room, friends I thought I’d have forever. Love discovered and held onto for 47 years and counting!

August holds both nostalgia for what was and anticipation for what’s ahead. It’s a reminder that we’re always living in some kind of in-between space—bridging the familiar with the unknown.

Maybe that’s what makes August special. It invites us to pause in this in-between, to notice how far we’ve come… and to lean toward the next chapter waiting to unfold.

Take a few quiet moments and ask yourself:

• What am I holding onto that I want to carry forward?

• What am I ready to leave behind?

• What new chapter is beginning to take shape for me?

What I'm Reading:

1. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield – A short, simple read. The title says it all.

2. Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be also by Steven Pressfield – how to get out of your rut and into action.

“August is like the Sunday of summer.” unknown

Keep learning and growing!

A Gentle Pause

My Musings

Around mid-July, I always notice a subtle shift. The world gets quieter. Time slows down. It feels like a gentle pause — a chance to breathe and savor the peace before the buzz of August sets in. This shift in pace reminds me of a simple 4-step practice I use often to reset and recenter:

• “Pause”

• “Breathe”

• “Connect to what really matters”

• “Choose accordingly”

It’s amazing how something so simple can help ease stress and bring you back to yourself. Try it and see how it feels!

Simple Summer Favors

• Dipping my toes in cool water – ocean, lake, or even a wading pool!

• Sipping a fun cocktail (bonus points for a paper umbrella)

• Barbecuing with friends

• Falling asleep outside with a book in my hands

• Simply slowing down

One of the joys of moving to a new climate is discovering things I never noticed before. I felt like a little kid the first time I saw dozens of tiny snails covering the sidewalk! Where did they all come from? How did they appear so quickly — and definitely not at a snail’s pace!

As you pause and savor summer, here are a few questions for you to reflect on:

Where in your life would you like to slow down?

What becomes possible for you when you do?

What are some of your simple summer savors?

I’d love to hear your thoughts – feel free to reply and share.

Tiny Self-Care Tip

Try a sunset sit. No phone, no agenda — just watch the light change for 10 minutes. It’s grounding, and it costs nothing! Just let yourself be.

What I’m Reading

There is so much in Hidden Potential that excites me. A recurring theme is that character, practice, and systems matter more than natural ability. Adam Grant blends research and story in a way that makes learning feel like a conversation. Let’s talk about it in Book Club – I’d love to hear your thoughts!

I’m also finishing up Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza — and it’s INCREDIBLE. Honestly, I wouldn’t have picked it up on my own. The description mentioned “quantum physics, neuroscience, brain chemistry, biology, and genetics,” and I figured it would be way too techy for me. I only got it because it was a class assignment... and I’m so glad I didn’t miss this discovery!

The book is packed with insight on change and how to create the reality you choose. Dr. Dispenza writes in a way that makes complex ideas accessible. My copy is so highlighted, it looks like a rainbow. This will be our next Book Club pick — grab a copy and read along!

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” – Anne Lamott

Here’s to slowing down, savoring what matters, and staying connected to joy.

Summer Joys

Last night, I stood on the front porch and enjoyed one of my favorite summer rituals. The rhythmic “thwack, thwack, thwack” of the sprinkler and the scent of water on grass in the warm air made me smile. Across the street, the two-year-old neighbor spied our tractor-style sprinkler. His whole body froze, eyes wide, mouth forming a small “o.”

Then, as fast as his little legs could carry him, he ran over for a closer look. His laughter and joy were contagious, mixing with the sprinkler’s steady rhythm to create the perfect summer soundtrack. It was a sweet reminder that summer’s magic lives in the simplest things.

My Summer Joys

• Waking to the songbirds greeting the new day.

• Laying on the grass and watching the clouds make shapes in the bluest sky.

• Biting into a fresh peach.

• The laughter and squeals of children playing with water.

• Summer songs – “Walking on Sunshine,” “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay,” “Here Comes the Sun” – just to name a few.

What are your summer joys? What brings back happy memories?

Tiny Self Care Tip

Cool yourself down quickly by running cold water over your wrists for 30 seconds. It’s a quick refresh when the heat gets overwhelming — physically or emotionally.

What I’m Reading

I’m currently reading Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant. If you’d love to move past perfectionism and level up your life, check it out — and join me for Book Club! I’m especially enjoying his thoughts on “purposeful play.”

I’d love to hear what’s bringing you joy this summer!