My grandson started playing the Mario Kart game shortly after Christmas. He spent days whooping and maneuvering and perfecting his Mario Kart victory dance, and then one day, in a fit of what can only be called pure optimism, he handed me the controls. Since I did not want to out myself as being a complete video klutz (there’s plenty of time for that), I gave it a … [Read more...]

By Sue Murphy Grateful. Thankful. Amazingly, those are the words I’ve heard most since the tornadoes descended on us a few weeks back.  The storms themselves were terrifying. Dave and I spent the night hunkered down in the basement bathroom. My cable and internet went out, so my daughter sent text updates: “Now in Shelby County.” “Headed right for you.”  It was … [Read more...]

By Sue Murphy After breakfast this morning, I hauled Dave outside to walk the lower 40, feet, that is. My backyard isn’t all that big, but my goodness, this year there has been a lot to see. The daffodils made an early appearance. I sent photos to my northern friends and relatives meaning to cheer them, but when they were hit with yet another snowstorm, I realized I was being … [Read more...]

By Sue Murphy I got an email from a friend the other day saying, “I just want to get on a plane and go somewhere.” I hear ya, buddy. I hear ya. For people who love to travel, this past year has been difficult. I’ve tried not to think about it, mostly, but I desperately, desperately want to be free to move about the cabin. I want to have a Coke in a plastic cup that I have to … [Read more...]

 By Sue Murphy Between 8:00 Monday night and 8:00 Tuesday morning, I received 67 emails. It’s like that most days. You’d think I was wildly popular, but my morning scroll always begins with delete, delete, delete.  I do this even though a lot of these messages purport to hold fabulous news. A grant that I never applied for has been approved. The interview … [Read more...]