Reflections on Summer, Change, and Memorial Day

Summer Challenges and Creative Outlets

Book sales and reviews have slowed down lately, so my bank account is starting to look like it’s on a diet. Since every cent from sales goes straight to Tunnel 2 Towers, I need to be tighter with marketing costs than my husband is with the thermostat in July (and that’s saying something). Summer’s here, and I can tell because my sleep has increased by a whopping 30–45 minutes a night—clearly, I’m living the dream! Isn’t it funny how on the days I actually have things to do, I want to sleep in, but the moment I have a free morning, my mind, body, and soul are practically doing calisthenics at sunrise? The past week flew by in such a blur that even my coffee needed a nap. Now that school’s out, I’ve been randomly laser engraving in the garage, channeling my inner artist and feeding my creative itch—mainly because my wood scrap pile grows faster than any plant I’ve ever attempted to keep alive. Honestly, if wood scraps had leaves, I’d be the proud owner of a thriving forest by now.

Mid-Life Reflections and Family Dynamics

Turning 46 has me asking the big questions, like what do I want to be when I grow up—again? Welcome to my mid-life crisis: edition two, now with more existential dread and fewer late-night parties. And yes, go ahead and chuckle, but I drive a Tesla. I’m a certified fan, zipping around in my second Tesla since 2020, and I’ve had zero issues—except everyone in the house suddenly wants to borrow my car. It’s not because they love me, it’s because they really hate paying for gas. The family now calls me the “Charging Czar,” and loves to tease me about my obsessive tracking of those precious eight-kilowatt cents per hour. I’m starting to forget what a gas station even looks like—do you still pump gas, or is it all touchscreen now? Just kidding, I’ve got old-school skills. I grew up driving stick shift, so I can handle anything with wheels…as long as it doesn’t ask me to parallel park in front of spectators.

Creative Spaces and Personal Fulfillment

I realize I need to convince my husband to let me have a “she shed”—because let’s be real, my creative empire has officially outgrown the garage corner and the kitchen island. At this point, half the house looks like a craft store exploded: laser engraving in one spot, leftover Amazon cardboard in another, and a suspicious stain on the counter that’s probably just “art.” Despite my makeshift solutions and questionable workspace choices, I’m having a blast channeling my inner creative spirit—plus, I’m pretty sure the wood scraps are starting to recognize me as their leader.

Memorial Day: Meaning and Reflection

As summer kicks off and Memorial Day pops up on the calendar, let’s remember it’s more than just an excuse to fire up the grill, hunt for deals, or finally tackle your legendary lawn jungle. Memorial Day is a moment to pause and honor those who served in the Armed Forces but didn’t get to come back home—those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It's not always easy to wrap our heads around the significance of their loss, but this day is for honoring and mourning the brave men and women who took their last breath fighting for our country—the land of the free and home of the perpetually sunburned. If you're scratching your head wondering how to pay tribute, don't stress: whether it’s saying a prayer at dinner, offering a small thank you at a red light (promise no one will judge if you’re talking to your steering wheel), or just taking a moment to be grateful, every gesture counts. After all, honoring heroes doesn’t require a grand gesture—just a thoughtful heart (and maybe resisting the urge to complain about Monday traffic—for one day, at least).

A Positive Note: Everyday Gratitude

I know my blogs are usually short and sweet, and I don’t want to leave you feeling down when reflecting on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It’s not easy, because this reality touches us every day—not just for veterans, but for all first responders. So, to wrap things up on a lighter, more grateful note: this Monday, or any day really, take a moment to thank someone. It could be a veteran, a firefighter, a police officer, the nurse who gives you your flu shot, or even the person making sure your drive-thru fries are hot. Life’s little things are so easy to overlook, so let’s make a point to appreciate them—this isn’t just my mid-life musings talking. I wholeheartedly believe a few extra dollars in the tip jar or a friendly, genuine compliment can turn someone’s entire day around. Remember, a little gratitude goes a long way, and so does a good laugh—just ask my wood scrap pile, which is probably planning its own sitcom at this point. Here’s to saying thanks, finding joy in the small stuff, and not taking ourselves too seriously—because sometimes, that’s exactly what makes life truly sweet.

“A nation that does not honor its heroes will not long endure.” — Abraham Lincoln