🌨️ How We Survived the Great Polar Vortex ❄️

Polar VortexAs Ms. Bear wrote last week, we remained huddled in our house for almost a week straight!!! Now, staying in my house?? You know I never have a problem with that — I could do it all the time if I could! Heck, if staying inside your house was an Olympic event, I’d win the gold medal by a landslide! That’s why last week, it wasn’t having to stay indoors that got to me. No, no. What chilled me to the bone — LITERALLY — was battling the Great Polar Vortex of 2019…

This Polar Vortex was like nothing I’d ever felt or seen before. It was a fierce one, let me tell you! Remember, I do have a history with ye old vortex, but not of the polar variety. When I ventured out to Arizona in 2007, a vortex literally made me sick to my stomach; seriously, the closer we got, the more I had to recline the car seat and actually lie down because I was getting so nauseous! I don’t recommend it!

But this 2019 Polar Vortex? It had me shivering in my boots — or, custom-made shoes, as in my case. The temps dipped below zero for a HIGH and the wind chills sank well into negative double digits. Did I also mention that my mom was off work for FIVE DAYS IN A ROW?!?!?

Like I said, this type of weather seemed unprecedented, even for the Midwest, which has seen its fair share of wild and inclement weather over the years!

The heat? I can handle it. A tornado warning, maybe even with a few sirens mixed in for good measure? Piece of cake! But what I cannot tolerate AT ALL is the cold, bitter wind of the Polar Vortex, and that’s exactly what we were treated to last week. In addition to those winter window cling things, we had to cover the kitchen window with a blanket to keep out the cold and had to wear multiple layers just to play Yahtzee since the kitchen table is right against the windows!

Polar VortexAnd when the temperature was -15 degrees, I had to move my work desk in front of the fireplace, naturally!

Polar Vortex Polar VortexThe next day, I set up my office in my mom’s room, where the cats were the perfect coworkers and Gibbs’ classic, intimidating stare kept me focused.

Plus, I don’t think it was a coincidence that I chose this word in Quiddler. ICER, INDEED…

Have you seen these cool photos of the Polar Vortex in Chicago? When you take away the bitter cold, there’s actually something really beautiful, serene and magical about it all, you know…?

Polar Vortex Polar VortexPolar VortexPolar VortexWere you impacted by the Polar Vortex? Stuck at home for days on end?? What did you do to pass the time?? xoxo

The Wonderful World of Winter, According to Ms. Bear

WinterIt’s no secret around our house that I like the winter. There is a magic in it. I think some of that comes from the feeling of wonder I had as a child when it would snow.

I was in elementary school during the Blizzard of ‘67 and I have a couple vivid memories of it, as well as a couple of lessons learned! I remember my mom telling me there would be no school that day. Being the rather neurotic child that I was, I didn’t believe her. And my mom, never one to be a helicopter parent, told me to go ahead and get dressed in my winter gear and go see for myself.

So, off I set, with my spindly (I was so skinny….there’s a phrase I have never said again since adulthood! LOL) little legs, down the street. Well, I didn’t get anywhere near the school because the streets weren’t plowed and the snow was literally up to my thighs! So, I made my way home and settled in for a snow day!

My second memory/lesson learned about snow was that you have to be careful of it. This was a two-part lesson. First, when my mom was little, their car got stuck up in the UP of Michigan, a not-uncommon occurrence. She got out to help my grandpa push the car and her hand went right through the headlight! So, I have always been super careful about where I push on a stuck car!

WinterThen, there is this great story, which is funny now, but wasn’t at the time. My mom and dad were out shoveling the driveway. My dad had moved the car out when they were working and he went to pull it back in. He saw my mom still in the driveway and gave a shocked look like he couldn’t stop. My mom actually thought he actually couldn’t stop and hurried to get out of the way. Well, you can see where this is going….she tried to move quickly and of course, fell right down! Now, if you didn’t live through that blizzard, you probably can’t imagine a time when you couldn’t go anywhere for days, but that’s just what happened. It turned out she broke her arm!!! Then, later after they had put a splint on her at home, my poor dad went to hug her and tripped right into her arm. I remember my mom swearing….she never did that! Looking back it was so funny, but it took about 3 days for my poor mother to get a cast put on that and for the rest of their lives my dad felt so, so bad! Lesson learned….don’t goof around in a 4,000-pound vehicle!!!

And, speaking of snow days….we have had a record number this year and I am totally enjoying every hour with nothing to do. Sitting by the fireplace (see below…), reading, playing games (of course) and watching NCIS have passed the days nicely. I’m even trying some of the tidying up lessons, thanks to Marie Kondo!

WinterIf you live where there is snow, go outside, watch the flakes fall, see the shimmering of the sun and just take a few minutes to enjoy the beauty of this majestic season. Spring will be here soon enough, so enjoy today and all winter has to offer us!

Happy Birthday, Ms. Bear: Life Lessons From Fake Plants

Happy BirthdayIt’s my absolute favorite person’s birthday today!! Extra special, double sweet HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Ms. Bear!! She’s battling a nasty cold today, but we all know a little virus doesn’t stand a chance against her big spirit!!!

And speaking of her indomitable spirit, it wouldn’t quite be her happy birthday without sharing one of the many life lessons she’s taught me! I’ve been saving these photos for a couple years now, and today is the perfect day to share the story that goes along with them. It’s, obviously, a classic Ms. Bear story, although she is so humble that she’d never admit that!

Anyway, these photos were taken several years ago. We usually keep that fake plant on our staircase that leads to the basement. It’s actually the only fake plant we’ve ever owned; I often wonder why my mom has such an attachment to this particular piece of plastic, but then I remember that we probably got it right after we moved into this house, which was shortly after my father died. A symbol of her grief, perhaps? How the leaves billow and bow, but never fall all the way to the ground? That describes her during the worst of the grief. Hurting, but not broken. Struggling, but still, somehow, surviving.

But, back to these photos. I’ve even forgotten why the plant was in the kitchen — probably because we just had the carpet cleaned. So there’s my mom, fiddling with the leaves. Again. She has a tendency to work her magic and rearrange the leaves when the plant starts to look sad — AKA, a bit on the droopy side.

Happy Birthday“What are you doing?” I asked. “You know we can just buy another plant, right?”

She continued her fiddling and arranging. At this point, her entire body was practically obscured by those green leaves!

“Oh, no! That’s not necessary! This one just needs a little fixing.”

Well, a little fixing she did! A few minutes later, the plant was back to its former glory, sitting in its usual spot on the stairs.

And while it took a little bit for the message to sink in, I finally realized something: That’s exactly what Ms. Bear does. Or, more precisely, what she doesn’t do. She doesn’t give up on people. Ever. Or, in this case, our fake plant. When things look desperate or even impossible, she doesn’t just throw her hands up in the air and say, “Oh, well. That’s that!” She’s never been that type of person. Who is she, then? She’s a helper, a listener, a comforter, a friend, a cheerleader, an adviser, a confidante.

I love her more than anything and am so thankful for her!!! I hope that I can be all those things for her. Whoever is that person to you, make sure you give them a big hug today and tell them just how much you appreciate them! I’m sure they’ll appreciate it! Now if you’ll excuse me, it’s time to get the birthday girl to SIT DOWN and watch Gibbs — that’s NCIS for those not hip to the show’s characters. Happy birthday, sweet Bear… xoxo

Family Photos: Our Glorious Holiday Staycation

Holiday StaycationWelcome back, friends!!!!! It’s sooooo nice to finally see you again!! How are YOU?? I’m slowly (very slowly…emphasis on the word very!) getting back into the work groove after our holiday staycation, and if I had to give a capsule review of these last two weeks, I could sum things up in just three words: It. Was. Glorious.

Simply glorious.

In fact, that’s the exact word my mom used on Facebook last week! Have I ever told you that she has a history of getting, umm, a bit antsy over long breaks from work? Her limit is usually the span of one long week, like three days off for Labor Day, and by the afternoon of the last day, she’s just wandering around the house puttering. It’s cute, of course, but not too fun for her.

But, I’m happy to say that she thoroughly enjoyed all 16 days off our holiday staycation! In fact, we ALL did, which might be why it’s been so difficult this week to get back to our “regular lives.” In case you need a bit more proof of our fun and lounging existence lately, here is some classic photo evidence…

Holiday StaycationI kicked off the vacation with a haircut — same classic style, of course! Why change a good thing if it’s worked for me for 30+ years? I mean, really, can you blame me?

Holiday StaycationWe also went out for lunch! It’s become a tradition that I take my mom out to lunch at the start of our vacations; it’s a good way to kick off the fun and relaxation that awaits us!

Holiday StaycationOf course I have to include an adorable photo of Ms. Bear herself!! Ever since I wrote about Bert and Ernie in September, we’ve been watching YouTube videos of the awesome duo. These stuffed animals found their forever home on her bed.

Holiday StaycationAs for the NCIS gear?? Well, we’ve been watching an obscene amount of Gibbs and company over this break, so those gifts for her just seemed fitting.

Holiday StaycationThese little rascals got into their presents on Christmas morning, looooong before we were even ready to open gifts! They managed to leave every other present wrapped and untouched, so apparently, they were on a mission — and they succeeded!

Holiday StaycationExpect a longer post on this, but Janelle got me two inspirational illustrations — one Wonder Woman and one Alice In Wonderland. They’re prominently displayed in my bedroom!

Holiday StaycationWe enjoyed a Sunday afternoon of cookies and games with friends!! There’s something so comforting and wonderful about the kind of friendship that spans decades and it feels like no time has passed at all..

Holiday StaycationAnd finally, apparently, this is the face of someone who had a happy and relaxing Christmas!! I haven’t seen this face on a holiday in 15 years, and IT FELT NICE. Missing my father, of course, but I went to bed feeling loved and content that tonight…

So, friends, I’d love to hear from you now!!! How has your 2019 been so far? What have you been up to lately? Did you do anything exciting over the holidays? Or maybe stayed close to home and partake in a holiday staycation of your own? You know I think the latter is equally thrilling! Happy New Year!! May 2019 be wonderful and magical and everything else you want it to be!! xoxo

P.S. Remember our spring vacation?

Happy Holidays and 2018 Year-In-Review

Year-In-ReviewWhat. A. Year. Who would have thought that three simple words could so accurately sum up the last 365 days? Certainly not me, as you all know that I have a slight tendency toward the verbose, grandiose sentences — OK, some may even call me a bit extra at time. What can I say? A lot, apparently. But seriously, 2018 sure is one for the record books. It was a year of some hurt and heartbreak, some medical maladies and milestones and some love and loss. In a word: WHOA. With Christmas just four days away and the beginning of 2019 looming on the horizon, now is the perfect time to do some classic looking back and reflecting a la a Year-In-Review! Because, really, I of all people have the art of reflecting down to an obsessive science. Buckle up, friends! Here we go…

Year-In-ReviewI mused about all things love and relationships, like the power in simply listening to someone, how to help someone who’s grieving, sibling love, losing a parent and life lessons from Ms. Bear!

Year-In-ReviewDisability posts, including traveling with a disability, thoughts on being a disability advocate, disability emojis, mental health awareness, The Disability Film Challenge, person-first language and writing about my disability and continuing the conversation on suicide.

Year-In-ReviewFun fashion fanfare, such as Style Guides, zodiac tees, heart nails, Pride Month picks, Etsy favorites and an Ode to Flower Crown Photo Filters.

Year-In-ReviewSome memorable Family Photos moments, like spring shopping, Ms. Bear’s NYC adventure, summer walks and lunches outside and my 37th birthday.

Year-In-ReviewThere were the usual pop culture posts, like Jurassic World, the new TV season, In Praise of Claire Underwood, Bohemian Rhapsody, Britney Spears’ 20th anniversary and my first Taylor Swift criticism.

Year-In-Review…but in addition to that lightness and breeziness, there was a distinct heaviness that hung in the air all year. The social and political upheaval of the last couple years (at least!) weighed heavily on my heart, and that heaviness took the form of posts on How to Help Stop Family Separation, The Importance of Press Freedom, The State of Women’s Equality, Men and the #MeToo Era and the Midterm Elections.

Year-In-ReviewFor all the frustrations of 2018, there were a couple bright spots. Maybe that’s why, in light of everything, I’m clinging to these happy moments more than ever. What happy moments, you ask? Ooooh, you know, just that time I BECAME A CARTOON (twice!) — seriously, I’m still not over the sheer thrill of that! I highly recommend it, if you ever get the chance. Seeing yourself in cartoon form is truly life-changing. My life is still not the same after that one!

Year-In-ReviewAnd, the other?? That special day MY BLOG TURNED 10. Where has the time gone? I’ve been asking myself that question looooong before my blog anniversary last month. Time just goes by way too fast.

Year-In-ReviewOutside of blogging, my freelance career was on the up and up as well in 2018. I’m not sure what it is, but something just seemed to click this year. I got into a rhythm and the ideas just kept flowing. There are still a few new pieces I haven’t shared yet (look for those in the new year), and I’m incredibly proud of the work I did in 2018. I broke into new publications like Harper’s Bazaar, Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post and The Fix. I also came into my own writing op-eds and published 12 op-eds in 12 months on CNN Opinion, which is becoming my favorite place to write for!

Year-In-ReviewAnd finally, on a sad note, we said goodbye to sweet Harry in April. We still talk about him every day, and it’s comforting to remember cute stories about him and smile when we think of his little kitty quirks. As my mom always says, “He was such a good boy!” Indeed, he was.

Year-In-ReviewWe also welcomed Whitney into our home, and she’s added some liveliness and whimsy to our house and our lives. She’s spunky and curious and knows her own mind, and it’s adorable to see her carry her favorite toy around the house! And in case you’re wondering, she and Stella are still working on their bond.

Whew, like I said, what a year this has been! Accordingly, too, this year-in-review has been one of the most epic blog post I’ve ever written! I want to thank you all for reading and sticking with me all these years. I’m so glad we’re connected and you’ve helped to make this blog journey unforgettable. I wouldn’t change a thing! Something tells me, in the grand scheme of things, this is only the beginning. And you know what? That makes me incredibly EXCITED, EXCITED, EXCITED. Did I mention how utterly excited I am??

Year-In-ReviewIt’s just past 6pm here in the Midwest, and as soon as I hit publish on this year-in-review post, I will officially be on vacation! I’m looking forward to spending the holiday with my mom and Janelle; I know it sounds corny, but home really is where the heart is. As long as I’m with them, I’ll be happy and content. I hope you’re able to find happiness and contentment this holiday season, whatever form that takes for you. Be gentle and loving to yourself. Be lazy if you want. Be yourself. And be ready to take on 2019 with vim and vigor. We got this!!!

Here’s to the festive spirit of the season! I’ll be back to regular posting on Tuesday, January 8th, and I’m excited to share lots of exciting things, especially some blog posts I’ve had on my To Blog About list for months and months! Also, feel free to send me your thoughts and ideas any time — just email me at mellow1422@aol.com!!! I always love hearing from you!! And I hope you enjoyed this year-in-review!

And as always, feel free to connect with me on Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Bloglovin!

I love you, friends!! xoxo

P.S. What would you include in your year-in-review? I’d love to hear all about it too!