Some non-advice for the parents-to-be as I look back on my daughter’s first 21 years

Some non-advice for the parents-to-be as I look back on my daughter’s first 21 years

Last week, my daughter turned 21. The ups and downs of my life with her came cascading down around me as the day caused me to reflect on the role I’ve played in getting her to this point – which is now, for me, one of my best friends.  

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“The Holidays” are a season, not a day

The holiday season that, for most,  began on Thanksgiving (or even just after Halloween for the early revelers) is quickly coming to a close. Officially, Christmas season ends with the Feast or the Magi or Little Christmas on January 6. For most people, going back to work or school after New Year’s Day signals the end of the holiday season. Read more

Chicago a year later

Chicago a year later

This time last year, was my last week in my New Jersey home. This was the week the movers took our stuff away and we turned our keys over to the new owners. This is the week I had one last great party with my friends before heading for I-80 West.

The predictions about what I was going to miss about New Jersey were pretty accurate. Read more

How not to be a victim of ageism

How not to be a victim of ageism

There was a workshop I attended this week entitled, “Ageism and Feeling Invisible.” The organization hosting the event was one of the networking groups I joined since arriving in Chicago. This group is specifically for women over 50.

This subject was particularly interesting to me because I have felt as I look for jobs here (corporate coaching or consulting with non-profits), it feels like my age is working against me. There was a time in my career not long ago that I had no trouble working with a recruiter, being recommended for numerous jobs, and being offered a position after every interview. Now it seems, just getting the interview has become a major challenge – I have even been dismissed by recruiters for fundraising jobs! Read more