by Hélène | Nov 3, 2023 | Musings
I am a planner. I like to predict and anticipate every eventuality. I hate surprises. And I’m not just talking about negative events. I’m turning 60 in January and I’ve made it clear to my husband: no surprise (or any other kind of) party! When the...
by Hélène | Aug 20, 2023 | Musings
We live in the city of Chicago, in a house on a quiet residential street. As such, we’re responsible for maintaining not only our yard but also our parkway—you know, the area between the sidewalk and the street. I’ll admit we have not invested a lot in...
by Hélène | Jul 19, 2023 | Musings
I love to purge my closet. At least once a year, I take a critical look at my clothing and accessories and determine what needs to go. They’re usually items I have not worn, mostly because I dread putting them on—like those uncomfortable skinny jeans, the pumps...
by Hélène | May 10, 2023 | Musings
My husband and I went out to dinner last weekend with one of our daughters as well as my mother-in-law who was visiting. The Chicago restaurant I chose is a well-established casual American eatery with a California beach vibe. I was very much looking forward to a...
by Hélène | Mar 16, 2023 | Musings
I realized quite recently that I have no hobbies. I’m an avid reader. I journal. I’ll walk my dog or meet a friend for lunch. I volunteer with women’s organizations. Are these hobbies? Hmmm… Kinda lame. I used to think I liked cooking but years of...
