Laments About Other Muddles

Karens of the World, Take Heart

We Coulda Been Irmas, Irenes ... or Igors!

Karens of the world take heart

We Karens have taken it on the chin in recent years, becoming a globally derided meme for racist, elitist, and generally nasty behavior. Well, now Karens of the world, take heart! It seems the only thing worse than being named Karen these days is having an ‘I’ name!

Here’s why: Read more

Packing Boxes and Unpacking A Choice Tidbit or Two

Oceans Aplenty, Sofas Divine, and A Spooky Urn!

Here in Berkeley, Ca., we’re busy packing for the move to the Biggest Little City in the World — Reno, Nv. And since it feels like I’m organizing my entire life around this move, I even cleared out my overflowing inbox. The reward? a clean desk for me AND a choice tidbit or two to share with you. Enjoy!

Tidbit One: Oceanic Happenings

Read more

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Man, Woman, Warriors, Love

Golden Memories

Man, Woman, Warriors, Love

Just like an “everything” bagel, this “sporty” love story has a bit of everything.

It’s the story of my friend Amy and her late husband Robert. And it’s about courtship and marriage over a basketball court. Actually lots of basketball courts. Read more

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Nonfungible Tokens and Me

A Clear Case of I Don't Know What I'm Writing About

NFTs

Yes, the subject is nonfungible tokens — NFTs for those in the cryptocurrency know. Of course, Luddite me is hardly in the cryptocurrency know. But stick with me, dear middle-aged muddlers. This blog promises to be pretty funny. Read more

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Discontinued Products. Loyalty Be Damned

Consumer Beware. Consumer So Sad

Products Discontinued

We all know the bittersweet nostalgia that comes with thoughts of beloved foods from childhood. But what feeling conveys — truly conveys — the feeling we get about recently discontinued products, like favorite cosmetics and toiletries?

Lately, manufacturers have stopped making multiple of my tried and true products. Oh, cruel companies! I’m a creature of habit. You’re rocking my world and NOT in a good way. Read more

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Lists Make Life Easier, Right?

A List-Maker's Lament

Lists are supposed to make life easier

Some people pray before going to bed. Me? I’m an unrepentant list maker. Each night I type up and email myself a to-do list of tasks I need and want to accomplish the next day. And short of dire “breaking news” headlines, it’s the first email I read each morning. Lists used to make my life easier and keep me focused. But now I’m not so sure. Now they’re the source of anxiety. Please heed this list writer’s lament! Read more

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If I Ruled the World

Queen Me for a Day

If I Ruled the World

Ah, if I ruled the world and could be Queen … just like on that popular TV show of decades ago, Queen for a Day. I’d right some wrongs, enforce some rules, and, maybe settle a petty score or two! I mean what’s power if you can’t abuse it just a teensy bit, all the while wearing a tiara and robe, parked on a royal throne? Read more

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Words Fail Me

Middle-Aged and Needing New Words

Words Fail Me

It’s true as we get older, our memory and communication skills slip a bit. Why did I walk into this room? What did I have for lunch today? What did you just say? And sometimes, frustratingly, we have to search for a word that’s at the tip of our tongue.

Yet, for all that, I believe there’s a bigger problem at play. The English language lacks the vocabulary to address the sensations, situations, and emotions – good and bad, we middle-agers and seniors experience.

For instance, what do you call the transformation of a once patient spouse into a grouchy, short-tempered guy? (A friend wants to know.) Read more

Coffee Mug Addiction

Brother, can you spare a cup? 10? 20?

Coffee Mug Addiction

Coffee mug addiction. It is America’s not-so-hidden disease. It’s costly and dangerous AND no household is immune. Where once there was mere cabinet clutter, now there is a coffee cup contagion.

Be honest. Do you recognize a loved one in the following words and thoughts? Do you recognize yourself?

“Must stop.” Read more

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Happy New Year

Muddle on with Laughter!

Happy New Year

Happy New Year to all my dear Middle-aged Muddlers,

It’s December 26, the start of that short pause in the festivities before New Year’s Eve, time to catch our breath and reflect on the year that’s ending and the new one that’s just days away.

For me, it’s a time to give thanks for family and friends. And you, my family of readers and subscribers, I give special thanks.

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy 2019 to you and all those you hold dear!

🎊

Now onward to more muddled laughter in the New Year!