Bereaving Adult Loss of a Sibling

On February 3rd, I received an End of mail forwarding service notification from the USPS. At first I didn’t read it because I assumed it concerned my recent move in October. But the notification concerned another event. I had set up the mail forwarding for my brother. Last March, Brian passed away in an isolated living arrangement in Washington. He…

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Become an Informed Citizen

A couple of years ago, I read an article encouraging readers to take the time to research and know the answers to a few basic questions about our local, state and federal governments. I have kept it in a box with my other “someday” projects. However, the recent election cycle and the protests that ensued really encouraged me to get…

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Making Exercise a Top Priority

I have been out of the military for over sixteen years but one of the disciplines I still maintain is my dedication to regular exercise. I also entered the military as a multi-sport athlete so I have enjoyed athletic competition for a long time as well. Regardless, whatever love-hate relationship you have had with getting your body moving in the…

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Self-Identity as a First Time Grandparent

We are now grandparents and I am struggling with my self-identity. To clarify, I know how to be a: Daughter and Sister Soldier Military Officer Student Wife Mother Manager Volunteer Business Owner Veteran To try to get some perspective, I started to reflect on the relationship I had with my only grandparent, my tough, German immigrant Nana. Living in New Jersey,…

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Golf, Cornhole and Okra Pickles

The title for this article is a bit quirky. What I am really writing about in this still-new year is that if you are actively living and experiencing new people and events, you can have some new “likes”, “dislikes”, and “never-again(s)!”

Due to college/career,adventures, and my Army Reserve obligations, I (and later with my husband) have lived in over 15 places for more than three months. We just moved again last year to Stono Ferry, SC; moving is definitely a joint never-again. However, the location for our last move was strategically chosen because my husband loves golf and plays and understands the game very well. One day I went with him to the practice range and after a few drives myself with great coaching, I was hooked. We now have an activity that we can enjoy together individually and as a couple as life allows.

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