You start talking and thinking about friends and the next thing you know...  Here's what happened to me after last week's episode.  plus a story that'll plant a powerful seed. 

We're talking real, actual, face-to-face friends and what they do for you (aside from just being your friends).  Plus, an unexpected but easy way to find new friends.  I dare you to listen. :-)

Missing motivation to do anything,  I escape to a backlog of books that offer some surprises. 

Like you need a reason to take a vacation... but maybe you need a little push.  And bit of encouragement.  So, here you go.  Don't thank me, just send a postcard! 

Kickstart relaxing by recalling a happy childhood memory?  Sounds easy, but it turned in to a mighty challenge.   

Here's news you may already know; Smartphones can be very bad.  Double that if your toddler has one.  Plus, don't you think we need a handbook on the rules for polite cellphone use? 

The rewards and benefits of making it through winter.  Looking closely at flowers.  And how Pepto Bismol Pink and a photo of eyeballs can alter behavior.     Sounds interesting, right? 

A phone call started it all.  And hours later, I had to be grateful.  

Love me some new books that share how colorful paint and googly eyes can make your life more joyful... and how work/life balance works better as a stacking game.   

How much time do you spend plugged in?   The new book "Digital Minimalism" shares an interesting study (pigeons) to explain the effects of apps (pings) and points out what they're stealing (pondering).