As children, many of us took great pleasure in laying on the grass searching the passing clouds for animal shapes. Pointing to a particular cloud, we'd excitedly call out, "Look! I see a bear." "That's not a bear," our cohort would reply, "It's a dog." At night, we argued whether we saw a man or … Continue reading Do You See What I See?
The Fruits of Our Labors
Last winter, my husband built a raised bed for my first, at home vegetable garden. While it lay fallow the grandboys used it as a giant sandbox. In spring, we planted sugar snap peas, snow peas, cucumbers, pole beans, onions, carrots, and broccolini. My husband raised a small patch of sweet corn across … Continue reading The Fruits of Our Labors
IWSG-Insecure Writers Support Group August 2018
In an effort to push myself as a writer, I recently joined, in fact, as recently as today, IWSG, the Insecure Writers Support Group. IWSG was started by Alex J. Cavanaugh in an effort to assist writers from all stages, published and unpublished, with overcoming their writing fears, struggles, doubts, and concerns. IWSG helps writers build … Continue reading IWSG-Insecure Writers Support Group August 2018
Hangin with My Grandson
Wednesday, I had the rare opportunity to spend some one on one time with my 17-year-old grandson, Gavin. He'd been in town visiting his other grandparents and I was able to steal him away for the day. On my way to pick him up, I began to panic. What do you say to a 17-year-old … Continue reading Hangin with My Grandson
Thursday Doors
I took a bit of a detour this week. Instead of writing, I enjoyed a walking tour of Old Monterey and photographed doors from some of Monterey's famous historical landmarks so I could join in the Thursday Doors photo challenge hosted by Norm Frampton at Norm 2.0. Here are some of my favorite doors. Stokes … Continue reading Thursday Doors
Smiles are Contagious-GratiTuesday Guest Post
Hello everyone, Welcome to GratiTuesday. I am grateful to Janis at Retirementally Challenged for inviting me to write a guest post for her blog. Please join me this week at Retirementallychallenged.com and see how powerful the gift of a smile is and how this simple act of kindness can change a persons life. Smiles are contagious; … Continue reading Smiles are Contagious-GratiTuesday Guest Post
A Friendly Smile
I could use a smile. How about you? Here are a few that light up my life. Thanks for humoring me. Smiles are contagious; let's start an epidemic. -Laura Smith-
“the life”
Standing at the sink taking my first sip of coffee is heaven. Eyes closed, I lick the milky froth from my upper lip, take a deep breath, release it with a sigh, and repeat. My morning latte warms me as it travels down to my belly. After my third sip, I turn away from the … Continue reading “the life”
Mourning Pages
Coffee made, bird feeders filled. The sound of Mourning Doves cooing fills the air. Steel grey skies obscure the sun, the flowers of my bougainvillea flutter in the soft breeze. This morning, I am spending time sitting outside quietly reflecting and remembering my friend, Rick. Rick, his wife Jessie, and their two daughters, Chelsi and … Continue reading Mourning Pages
Solo Adventure
Recently, I took my first solo bike ride along the scenic California coastline between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. 17-Mile Drive with its breathtaking vistas and iconic landmarks hugs the rocky shoreline as it winds through awe-inspiring forests, golf courses, and multimillion-dollar homes. Focusing mostly on the dramatic coastal views, I enjoyed playing tourist, stopping … Continue reading Solo Adventure