In the closing paragraph of The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving, I say, “…this is what I know to be true. I really am okay. And you will be, too.”

Since writing the book, I’ve been spending more time exploring what “I’m okay” really means. Well, actually, what “I’m better than okay” really means. A lot of it focuses on rediscovering who I am after releasing long-held identities as a caregiver, and (yes, I’m that old) as an employee. Big stuff. BIG stuff.

Of course, this will be different for everyone, but, just like caregiving, there are always common threads that run through the experience. And also just like caregiving, this is a journey made richer by traveling with friends like you who find yourselves on the same road.

So, here’s the plan. We’re going to do some exploring, tap into our creative side, and gather up big handfuls of joy. Along the way, I’ll share my own low-budget journey of self-discovery, art and writing prompts that go deep, inspiring conversations with women just like us, and tons more goodness.

Of course, there’ll still be lots of support and encouragement for those still walking the caregiver path. You are, and always will be, my people. Just think of this as a mini-retreat where we open ourselves up to possibility, and embrace the potential for what comes next.

A Library Moment

Our Hillsborough County Public Library system has a special “Share Your Story” feature on their website. My recent childhood trip down memory lane was included. Honestly, I can’t imagine a world without libraries. Can you?

Library Story

A Library Fantasy

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After doing some research on the first public library in the U.S., it seems that several towns claim that honor – Peterborough New Hampshire, Salisbury CT, Darby PA, Newport RI, to name a few.

Regardless, I’m honored to share that the Hillsborough County Public Library System has just added The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving: A Practical Memoir to their collection!

Growing up, one of my fantasy jobs was  being a page at our local library, and getting to shelve books all day. This is so much better! And as you can see, Addie Jacob is just as excited.

The Perfect Book Launch Party

Signing books and retouching my eyebrows at a “Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving” launch party given by some lovely friends, Steve and Janie Miller. This is the perfect book club selection, with a series of questions at the end that are sure to get people talking. Or maybe that will be the wine.

2 ink pen woman