American Thanksgiving is coming up, and I thought it would be fun to share a little mental break for anyone who’s knee-deep in planning, cooking, hosting, or just trying to keep up with the holiday buzz.
Sometimes, between the grocery runs and the to-do lists, it’s nice to pause and do something entirely unrelated to casseroles and centerpieces.
So this week, I’m offering a simple, festive word scramble. Nothing fancy—just a lighthearted way to shift your mind into a different gear and enjoy a few quiet minutes.
I’ve always liked word scrambles because they’re a nice change from the usual word searches and crosswords. There’s no complicated “find this in a grid” or “solve this clever clue” required—just a handful of jumbled letters waiting to be untangled.
It feels calming, almost like giving your brain a gentle stretch without any pressure. So whether you’re taking a quick break from holiday prep or simply looking for a cozy little activity to sip your coffee with, this word scramble fits the mood. It’s festive, low-key, and a fun way to celebrate the season in a small but satisfying way.
Can You Unscramble These Words Relating To Thanksgiving?
If you’re in the mood to give your brain a fun little workout, head on down and tackle this jumble of mixed-up letters. See how many of these Thanksgiving-related words you can sort out without sneaking a look at the answers (I know — it’s tempting).
Whether you’re curled up with a warm drink, unwinding after a busy day, or just wanting a quick dose of distraction, this word scramble is a simple way to brighten your mood.
🦃Solve These Scrambled Words 🍂
1. 🦃 RADGUIETT ____________
2. 🌾 HARVTSE ____________
3. 🎃 UNKPIPM ____________
4. 🍽 ESTAF ____________
5. 🦃 ERUYTK ____________
6. 🍞 ACNDBEORR ____________
7. 🍒 NRERCYBRA ____________
8. 🥣 FTFGSIUN ____________
9. 🍁 MUUANT ____________
10. 👨👩👧👦 LFYIAM ____________
11. 🥧 HGTGNRAEI ____________
12. ⛪ RLIMIPG ____________
13. 🎉 AEDPRA ____________
14. 🙏 BIELGSNSS ____________
15. 🌽 AORCCIUNPO ____________
16. 🎈 CTLEEBARE ____________
17. 📜 DTNAIOTIR ____________
18. 🍗 SEEOVFTLR ____________
19. 🥔 DMSHEA ____________
20. 🍏 DHARORC ____________
(Scroll down for the answers at the bottom of this page)
It’s filled with 500 holiday-themed words to unscramble, and the pages are large and easy to read. Each page has a little festive artwork, and every page features ten words centered around a new Christmas theme — plus the answers are included so you can check your work.
I created it as a cheerful, relaxing way to give your brain a little holiday workout. It’s perfect for teens or adults and makes a sweet stocking stuffer, a small party gift, or a thoughtful treat for anyone who loves a little festive fun.
How did you do? Were you able to solve a few of them?
🦃🦃🦃🦃🦃🦃
Here are the Answers For The Thanksgiving Word Scramble - (They'll drop down on this page when you click)
Click Here For The Answers
1. RADGUIETT → GRATITUDE
2. HARVTSE → HARVEST
3. UNKPIPM → PUMPKIN
4. ESTAF → FEAST
5. ERUYTK → TURKEY
6. ACNDBEORR → CORNBREAD
7. NRERCYBRA → CRANBERRY
8. FTFGSIUN → STUFFING
9. MUUANT → AUTUMN
10. LFYIAM → FAMILY
11. HGTGNRAEI → GATHERING
12. RLIMIPG → PILGRIM
13. AEDPRA → PARADE
14. BIELGSNSS → BLESSINGS
15. AORCCIUNPO → CORNUCOPIA
16. CTLEEBARE → CELEBRATE
17. DTNAIOTIR → TRADITION
18. SEEOVFTLR → LEFTOVERS
19. DMSHEA → MASHED
20. DHARORC → ORCHARD
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
If you're finding yourself in need of redoing your WordPress website with a new theme, this article may help you.
I recently had to redesign my website, Drageda.com, and honestly—it wasn't exactly on my "fun to-do" list.
The theme I was using could no longer be updated to the latest PHP version, which meant my site was at a standstill.
Additionally, I recently acquired the rights to create commercial music with my own lyrics, and all of that work—copies of my songs are available on my YouTube channel, @dragedapoemslyrics—but I also needed a reliable website home.
I knew I couldn't continue building and sharing potentially hundreds of songs on a site that couldn't upgrade properly. So I finally faced the inevitable: the redesign had to happen.
How I Work With AI: Talking, Clarifying, and Back-and-Forth
Here's how I work with AI: I talk to my computer as if I'm talking to a person. It's a full-on, back-and-forth conversation—I never just assume AI is giving me the correct answers, because sometimes I haven't asked the question the best way.
I explain my problem, AI interprets it, I clarify, and we go back and forth until we figure out the solution. My husband or kids will walk in while I'm mid-issue, and I'll have to put my hand up because yes—I'm actually talking to the computer, asking it questions the way I might in a business meeting.
It floors them every time, but it works. This conversational approach is far faster than typing out long instructions.
How Using AI to Revamp My Site Saved Me Money
I'm not one to spend money on building websites—I've created them myself for years, learning only what I needed to know as I went along.
I use WordPress, but I don't try to master every single aspect; I just pick up the skills as I go. Often, I learn something, use it, and then let it go—so when I need to make changes later, I have to refresh my memory.
This is where AI became incredibly handy. By guiding me through everything—from selecting a theme to implementing tweaks—I didn't have to hire anyone.
That saved a lot of money. Of course, it still cost me time: I spent about three solid days on this project. Picking a theme alone took hours because, well, I was being fussy. Once the theme was installed, I had to make various tweaks and adjustments.
I could do it all behind the scenes on a staging site, without affecting my existing website. That meant no pressure to get everything perfect on the first try.
So, yes, it cost me my time and gave me sore eyes—but it saved me a significant amount of money while giving me complete control over how my site looks and functions.
Step 1: Staging the Site
My hosting provider is SiteGround, and I'm very pleased with them. AI first informed me that I could create a staging site with SiteGround—a temporary clone of my website—so I could work on the redesign behind the scenes without affecting the live site. Once everything was perfect, AI guided me on how to push the staging site live.
AI walked me through every step of creating this staging site, including where to navigate within SiteGround and the specific steps to follow.
Step 2: Picking and Adjusting a New Theme
I chose a new theme for Drageda.com. It has some limitations—for example, the colors in the dropdown menus that I wanted to tweak. Instead of guessing or experimenting endlessly, I explained the problem to AI:
"I want the dropdown to be a different color, and the hover effect to be more readable. How do I do that?"
AI provided me with the CSS code I needed and instructed me exactly where to insert it in the design settings.
I asked follow-up questions, such as "Will this conflict with anything else?" and received clear, reassuring guidance. I double-checked, and everything worked beautifully.
Step 3: Quick Problem-Solving Along the Way
Whenever I ran into a hiccup—technical or design-related—I asked AI out loud. It provided step-by-step solutions that were easy to implement. No digging through forums, no guessing—just straightforward answers.
Tips for Using AI For Your Technical Issues
One thing I've learned is that you can't just assume AI automatically understands your question or knows the correct answer based on how you asked it.
Sometimes I think I'm explaining a problem clearly, but AI misinterprets it—not because it's not smart, but because I haven't asked the question in the right way. That's why the back-and-forth is so essential. I'll explain, clarify, and even backtrack steps until AI fully understands the issue.
For example, when I needed additional CSS code for other tweaks, the AI guided me to inspect elements on my site, copy the correct code, and bring it back to our AI conversation. It was then able to provide me with the correct code.
For anyone doing projects like this on their own: be very specific, and don't trust that AI understands precisely what you mean. You are only getting back what you specifically ask.
Always think it through, double-check, and ask more questions if needed.
For CSS, AI is particularly convenient when your theme doesn't offer options for specific changes. But I always follow up with questions like: Is there any potential conflict? Can I leave the existing code? Should I delete old CSS code if it's no longer needed? CSS is relatively safe according to AI, but I double-check anyway. It's simple, but these steps save a lot of headaches.
The future is here, yikes - very handy, but still freaky.
You can check out the new look of my site here, at Drageda.com!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I often wonder what my mom would have told her 60-year-old self when she was 80.
Mom passed at 82, and although we had many conversations, I don't remember us having this one - but I'd venture that we did, and I've simply forgotten.
Now that I'm in my mid-60s, I often think about that. What would I tell my 40 or 30-year-old self?
Because even at this age, I certainly haven't learned nearly all there is to know. I imagine my mom at 80 had realizations and wisdom that didn't resonate when she was my current age.
It makes me think that no matter how old we are — 20, 40, 60, or 80 — we're always able to look back and see what we didn't know then versus what we know now.
So, this piece is about being in my mid-60s and reflecting on how every decade carries its own lessons. I'm sure if I'm blessed enough to reach my mid-80s, I'll see life through an even more seasoned lens — maybe not entirely different, but definitely deeper. That's how I tend to live: tracking the markers, assessing the growth, and asking myself what stuck, what didn't, and what I still need to learn.
What I'd Tell My 30-Year-Old Self - I'd Have to Laugh Mid-Conversation!
If I could go back and whisper something to my 30-year-old self, I think the first thing I'd do is laugh — because she would've never believed we'd make it through half of what was coming!
There was a time when I used to say, "If I could go back, I'd change schools, or take a different major, or move to a different city." And while that sounds practical, it's also impossible — because those kinds of changes would have altered everything. I wouldn't have the kids I have, the family I have, or even the same path that shaped me.
So I've grown past that kind of thinking. That was the younger me talking. The version that thought life was supposed to go according to plan.
Today, I understand that my life unfolded the way it was meant to — not easily, but meaningfully. I accept that I chose this life for a reason. My spirit wanted growth, and, well, it got it!
Sometimes I joke that before we’re born — if that’s how it works — maybe we’re up there somewhere making our life plans like a bunch of overachievers. And there I was, hand in the air, saying, “Give me all the lessons. I can handle it. I’ll do a thousand lifetimes in one. Let’s go!” Honestly, that's my character, so I can legitimately believe I would do this!
And then somewhere around my 50s, I did yell back, "Okay, that's enough now — who approved this plan?!" Because honestly, I think I signed up for a little too much growth.
Still, I can laugh about it now, and that's a kind of wisdom all on its own. Laugh, cry, feel it all.
What 65-Year-Old Me Would Tell Me 30-Year-Old Me:
If I could actually sit across from my 30-year-old self, I'd say this:
“It feels insurmountable right now, but you’ve chosen this path for a reason. Keep moving forward. Speak up more often. You’re going to discover strength beyond your wildest imagination. You think you know what strength is now — just wait. You’re about to master it, my Queen. Hold onto love, and you'll survive it all.”
I wrote the song lyrics in the above video in my late 30s, possibly early 40s. I was struggling then, deeply. And that struggle, as hard as it was, gave me this creative voice that I've used before and ever since.
Most of those poems mirror the ups and downs, the lessons, and the love I've found along the way. I originally published that book for my children, so when my time here is done, they'll still have a piece of me to hold onto, if they need it.
What Would You Tell Your 30-Year-Old Self?
Now, what about you? Have you ever asked yourself that question?
Would you tell your 30-year-old self to make this turn instead of that turn? To choose a different path, or avoid certain detours? Or would you simply congratulate yourself for surviving it all — for learning what you needed to learn, even if it came the hard way?
We all have our own version of that conversation. Maybe that's what life really is — a series of quiet talks between who we were and who we're becoming.
Closing Thought
So, here's to every version of us: the 30-year-old who was trying to figure it out, the 60-year-old who's still learning, and the future self who will someday look back and smile, realizing that somehow, through it all, we did okay.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
We all have those stretches when we're not posting, not sharing, not updating—and I've realized that the silence can say as much as the noise.
Sometimes it means someone is going through something they can't quite name yet. Other times, it simply means they're living quietly, peacefully, in their own space.
For me, that quietness feels right most of the time. I primarily use social media to share the things I create—songs, poems, articles, riddles, and the work of other writers I admire.
Occasionally, I'll post family pictures or something lighthearted, but I keep my personal life private. I don't need to put everything out there. I know many of you share those feelings as well.
There's a lot of emotion attached to what we see online—the perfect families, the perfect homes, the picture-perfect moments that can make life look effortless.
I don't judge posting, because I post too; in fact, many people find joy and pride in sharing what they love. It's also nice to stay up-to-date.
However, I sometimes worry that I might make someone feel left out, or, on the other hand, that they might be tired of me. So, I keep things simple. Because everyone has a battle, and not knowing what their struggle may be, I err on the side of caution.
Part of it is the world my older generation grew up in.
Our generation went from dial phones to having the world in our pockets.
I still remember when a 25-foot phone cord was considered high-tech—it gave you enough freedom to walk into another room and talk privately! What a handy item that was. Lol.
That was our "social media." Now, everyone's connected all the time. But I do admire how naturally younger people navigate that.
It's their world. But for me, the quieter lane feels more comfortable.
When Silence Speaks
I've learned that sometimes what we don't post reveals just as much as what we do.
The silence might mean someone is overwhelmed, reflecting, busy, resting, or simply choosing peace over noise.
There's a kind of wisdom that comes with knowing not everything needs to be shared, explained, or responded to. Some moments are meant to be felt, not displayed.
Choosing not to post isn't the same as withdrawing—it's simply deciding that certain experiences belong to the heart more than the timeline.
There's a quiet beauty in holding certain aspects of our lives close, letting them unfold without announcement or commentary.
When Grief Has No Words
When my dad passed away, I couldn't bring myself to post about it—not for a while. It wasn't that I didn't want support; I just couldn't find the words. The shift inside me was too big, too raw. It felt like an internal earthquake—like a part of me had been quietly rearranged.
Eventually, I was able to talk about it, write about it, and even share it—but not at first. That silence wasn't avoidance; it was reverence. It was me trying to make sense of a life that suddenly felt different.
And that experience taught me something about others as well. We don't always know what's behind someone's stillness online or in life.
Sometimes, the quiet is protecting something sacred. Sometimes, it's where healing lives.
The Gift of Quiet
These days, I've come to appreciate quiet as a kind of luxury. Even when the TV's loud or music's playing, there's still a peaceful undercurrent I can feel—a sort of calm I didn't always recognize when I was younger.
I see quiet as space. Space to breathe, think, and just be.
Silence doesn't mean absence. It's not a lack of connection or care. Its presence, in another form. It's reflection. It's peace.
So, when I scroll past the stream of updates and realize I haven't posted in a while, I don't feel behind. I feel grounded, and I enjoy catching up with family and friends who are sharing.
The moments I don't post about are often the ones that shape me the most—quietly, deeply, and without an audience.
And maybe that's what makes them so meaningful.
They remind me that not every beautiful thing has to be witnessed to be real.
Some of life's most authentic moments happen in the spaces no one sees—where there are no captions, no commentary, and no need to explain.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Every so often, we all need something simple and a little spellbinding to give our minds a break from the everyday. So today, I've brewed up something different — a Witchy Word Scramble!
Instead of searching for words, you'll be untangling them. Each one is mixed up like a cauldron full of curious letters, waiting for you to set them straight. It's not an easy one — more of a "hard level" kind of challenge — but that's half the fun.
Think of it as a mini brain workout wrapped in a whimsical Halloween twist.
Try This Difficult Witchy Word Scramble Challenge - This List Isn't Easy!
If you're ready to give your mind a playful stretch, scroll down and take on this tricky little spell of letters. See how many witchy words you can unscramble without peeking at the answers (you know you'll be tempted).
Whether you're relaxing with your favorite drink, winding down after a long day, or just craving a few moments of light distraction, this word scramble is designed to lift your spirits — without any actual magic required.
🧙♀️ Witchy Word Scramble Challenge 🧙♀️
😂 CCEALK ___________
✨ HBTEWIC ___________
🪄 USOHC ___________
🧙♀️ EXDHE ___________
🤪 AYNZ ___________
😏 NKARYS ___________
🧹 BCRMKSIOTO ___________
🐸 RWTYA ___________
🔮 OUDLACRN ___________
👻 POOYKS ___________
💖 AHICHRSM ___________
💀 HSAYGTL ___________
🌙 MHIWYS ___________
🕸️ ONECV ___________
🔮 TCIMSY ___________
🧪 PNTOEREOI ___________
🤸♀️ YOWBBL ___________
👸 HEECNSANSTR ___________
😬 AMRGEIC ___________
🐺 ERLWOH ___________
✨Once you've unscrambled all the words, give yourself a little magical cheer — you've exercised your brain, embraced your inner witch, and survived this tricky Witchy Word Scramble.
The Answers Will Drop Down When You Click The Answer Link Below
With 500 holiday words to unscramble, large, easy-to-read pages, and a little festive art on each page, it's perfect for teens and adults. Each page features a new Christmas theme with ten words to solve, and the answers are included.
It's a fun, festive way to exercise your mind — and it makes a great stocking stuffer, small party gift, or thoughtful holiday token.
Happy unscrambling, enjoy a little magical brain exercise, and don't forget to take a moment for yourself — even witches need a playful break now and then!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Take a Trip Back to the 1970s with My Riddle Playlist
If you’re planning a retro-themed party, celebrating a birthday for someone who grew up in the 1970s—or even the late 1960s—I’ve got a little something that can add some fun and laughter to the mix.
I created a special 1970s Riddles playlist on YouTube, and it’s the perfect, uncomplicated game to keep your guests entertained while maintaining a light, family-friendly, and just a touch nostalgic vibe.
Short, Fun Riddles That Anyone Can Play
The playlist is made up of 14 short-form Riddle videos (soon to be 15), each one inspired by the 1970s. What’s great about these Riddles is that they’re super quick—you won’t get bogged down with long explanations.
And to keep it fun, the answers aren’t shown on the Riddle itself; instead, I post them in the first comment. This way, everyone can guess first, then pause or peek at the answer when they’re ready.
It’s simple, interactive, and perfect for sparking a little friendly competition at your party.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a retro birthday bash, a casual family get-together, or even a holiday party over Christmas or New Year’s, these Riddles are a playful way to bring a little 1970s flair into the room.
Seniors and older adults especially seem to enjoy the nostalgic references, but honestly, anyone can have fun trying to solve them.
It’s one of those games that doesn’t require any preparation, props, or complicated rules—just laughter and a willingness to play along.
Or, if you’re like me and want to control it from your phone, you can screen it to your TV—so you can pause, rewind, or skip around as needed.
Either way, it’s a smooth, low-effort way to add a little interactive fun to your party setup.
And because these Riddles are short, you can sprinkle them in between songs, serve snacks, or even use them as a light-hearted icebreaker.
Each Riddle takes just seconds to watch and guess, but it’s enough to get people chatting, laughing, and reminiscing about the good old days.
Why I Made This Playlist
As the creator of these Riddles, I wanted something that would combine my love for clever wordplay with a bit of nostalgia.
The 1970s had such a vibrant, unique culture—music, fashion, movies, and trends that still bring a smile today.
I thought, why not create a playlist that’s more than just music —a little game that taps into that decade and lets people connect over memories, laughs, and fun challenges?
Ready to Play?
If you’re curious or want to bring some retro fun to your next party, check out the 1970s Riddles playlist on YouTube. With 14 (soon to be 15) short videos, each with answers conveniently in the comments, it’s a ready-to-go party game that works for families, friends, and guests of any age.
It’s a light, playful way to get people talking, laughing, and maybe even singing along to some memories from the era. And even if your party isn’t specifically retro-themed, the Riddles are still a fun little brain teaser for anyone who enjoys a clever twist on nostalgia.
So grab your snacks, cue up the playlist, and get ready for some 1970s Riddle fun—you might just discover that retro game nights aren’t just for kids anymore!
Hosting a Halloween Party? Here's my Halloween Riddle Book on Amazon, Where Available - Featuring original riddles! Ideal for party gifts & prizes!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Nearly 25 years ago, I wrote a poem/song lyrics called Hope is a Place. Back then, my days were filled with the joyful chaos of raising a family—work, school runs, endless to-do lists.
Life was busy, but beneath it all, I remember feeling this steady heartbeat of hope. I wrote that poem as a quiet reminder to myself: to keep giving, to keep believing, and to stay open to both the good and the hard parts of life.
Hope, in that season, was my way of giving back—to my children, my community, and to the woman I was becoming.
Does Hope Change With Age?
At 65, I realize that time hasn't changed the essence of hope —it has simply deepened.
Back then, I saw hope as a light that helped me face each day with purpose. Today, I see it as a gift we give ourselves in the moment we’re living.
Hope doesn’t just look forward—it wraps the present in gentleness, like a beautifully tied bow around the life we already have. It helps us stay here, now, while still allowing room for what might be waiting just beyond our view.
Is Hope About Getting What We Want?
Some people say that hope only leads to disappointment—that to hope is to risk being let down. I understand that view, because I’ve felt it too.
But I don’t believe hope’s purpose is to deliver a specific outcome. Hope, to me, isn’t a wish list or a guarantee—it’s the quiet belief that possibilities exist, even when we can’t see them yet.
When something we’ve hoped for doesn’t happen, it doesn’t mean hope has failed us. Sometimes it’s simply leading us somewhere new—to a fresh start, a different direction, or a door we didn’t even know was waiting.
What Does Hope Really Give Us?
Hope gives me energy.
It’s a current that runs through me and out into the world, hopefully touching others without my even realizing it.
I like to believe that when we hold onto hope, we emit something good—something bright. It doesn’t mean we’re always cheerful or unshaken; it just means that somewhere inside, we’re open. We’re willing to believe that light still exists, even when the day feels dark.
Hope, in that way, becomes both a gift to ourselves and to others—a reminder that unseen things can be the most powerful.
Hope and Love Coexist as Life’s Anchors
If love is the force that connects us, hope is the force that steadies us.
It’s the quiet anchor that keeps us grounded in the present while still allowing us to drift toward tomorrow.
Hope doesn’t erase the hard moments, but it helps us move through them. And when life feels joyful, it reminds us to savor those moments too—to recognize that hope isn’t only for when we’re lost. It’s also for when we’ve found something worth holding.
What Is Your Word? Mine is Hope.
There’s a belief that everyone should have a word—a word that somehow captures who they are at their core, or what they stand for.
A dear friend and I once talked about this, and ever since, my word has been hope. That same friend gave me a necklace engraved with the word, and I wear it every day as a gentle reminder.
Along with love, hope is the anchor that keeps me present, connected, and moving forward. It’s invisible, yet tangible. Elusive, yet powerful. And to me, hope truly is a place.
This article was inspired by my poem “Hope is a Place,” written nearly 25 years ago and included in my poetry book, where available, on Amazon.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I've Been Obsessed with Time Since I Was 8 Years Old
That sounds like a strange thing for an eight-year-old to say, doesn't it? But I remember it vividly.
I was eight, my brother was six, and we were trying to let Mom sleep in.
Our mornings were often filled with old Shirley Temple movies and wild imaginations. We'd turn a blanket into a "boat," grab canned goods from the kitchen, and pretend we were setting sail — sometimes to escape danger, sometimes just to explore.
One morning, standing in the hallway, I asked my brother a question that still echoes in my soul today:
"Why are you you and me me?"
He probably shrugged it off, eager to get back to our blanket boat, but that question never left me. Even at eight, I felt the weight of my own existence — this sense that "I" was something separate and conscious, and that somehow Time and existence were connected in ways I couldn't understand yet.
When Time Became a Fascination
As I got older, that awareness of Time grew into an obsession.
Not the kind that makes you late for appointments or stare at clocks (though I've done both), but the kind that makes you wonder: what exactly is Time?
I became drawn to time travel movies andstories that twisted the rules of reality and blurred the boundaries between "then" and "now." They weren't just entertainment for me — they were portals into possibilities. I didn't separate the spiritual from the scientific; I was open to it all.
Can we move through Time? Are we souls who return again and again? Or are we simply fleeting passengers on a one-way track? I never dismissed any of it — God, aliens, reincarnation, time loops, you name it — because every theory felt like it was reaching for the same truth.
Now, as an adult, I believe our souls are timeless. The "me" I felt at eight still feels like the "me" I am today — wiser maybe, but still that same spark.
The answer to "why are you you and me me?" has softened over the years into something beautifully simple: love and kindness are the only measures, Time is the vehicle. You are always you, and I am always me.
I've come to understand (for me) that we are always our spirit, always our consciousness, always us. It's never been a crap shoot, which is one of the things I felt at 8 years old, that I no longer feel at 65 years old.
No matter who we are, where we came from, or where we go, it's love and kindness that anchor us. When we step away from that, Time loses its purpose, the vehicle stalls — it just becomes noise in the background instead of a rhythm in our heart. The rhythm of growth NEEDS love, it NEEDS kindness. The rest IS noise that only slows our learning down.
Writing My First Poem About Time When I Was a Teenager in the 1970s
By seventeen, I could already feel Time slipping by. I remember taking the train from my small town to Toronto to visit a friend — about a three-and-a-half-hour ride. Somewhere along the way, watching the world blur past the window, I wrote a poem about Time.
It was the 1970s, and I was a teenager — but even then, I felt the strange ache of hours passing too quickly (crazy, I know! I was so young yet felt the ticking clock).
Later, in my thirties, I rewrote that same poem, layering it with the wisdom and wear that life had given me.
In my fifties, I revised it once more, adding even more perspective, as if each decade had given me a new lens through which to see Time.
If I am gifted more Time, will I revise the poem again? I think about that.
Below is that poem, one that has traveled with me for nearly 50 years now — a kind of map of how Time has shaped me.
TIME'S GIFT
Time heals Promising closure Shrinking scars like popping bubbles As it prepares our gift Time's benefaction is objectivity to our past Building an awareness of yesteryears Defogging our vision for truth Generously donating our package of clarity
Time lies only to those who misuse its precious moments, Lines entrenched on our face can devour redeemable blemishes By gracefully accepting our package healing eyes can widen to witness dissipating mist
Time promises blessed tomorrows Let us put away our spinning wheels plunge forward with our lesson accept our bequest from Time, and yes! We will have morning smiles
It's fair to say I've seen nearly every time-travel movie ever made.
I seek them out, not for the science fiction, but for the spiritual resonance they carry. There's something about them that feels true on multiple levels.
Many philosophers suggest that Time isn't linear — that everything, past and future, is happening all at once. Whether that's scientifically provable or not doesn't matter much to me. What matters is that it feels right.
The only real Time that exists is this moment — the present.
When I first read that idea, I couldn't quite grasp it.
"What do you mean, only the present exists?" I'd think. We have memories, plans, regrets, and hopes — of course, Time is more than just the present.
But as I've aged, I've come to understand what it really means:
You can reflect on yesterday and plan for tomorrow, but you can only live in the present.
This very moment — writing these words, breathing this breath — is Time. Everything else is memory or imagination.
It took years, but I FINALLY understand that at my core.
When Time Stands Still
Living in the present doesn't mean ignoring the future or the past. It just means that you live fully in the moment you're in — even when that moment hurts.
Life has its seasons of chaos and heartbreak, but even in those times, I've learned that joy can still exist. It might be quieter, more fragile, but it's still there — tucked into laughter through tears, or a single kind gesture that reminds you that love never disappears, it just changes form.
That's where Time stands still — in those sacred, love-filled moments.
Closing Thoughts: What Time Has Taught Me
If Time has taught me anything, it's that every second matters — not because we're racing against a clock, but because each moment is a chance to choose love over fear, kindness over indifference, and presence over distraction.
Maybe that's why I've always been obsessed with Time.
Because somewhere deep down, I knew it wasn't about minutes or hours —
It was about being alive in them.
Blessings, Love Barbara xxoo
P.S. I've written a flash fiction story about the concept of life, lessons learned, and ultimately Time and what matters available here on ReviewThisReviews - you can find it here.
A Video I Created at 60 Years Old, Sitting Quietly With My Mother
My mom passed away in 2021, and she will forever be a part of my every breath, in this life and beyond. This video remains my current reflection on what Time means to me, now that I am 65 years old.
If I were to revise my above poem, "Time’s Gift" again, I’d add the message from this video: that life’s lessons matter, yes, but it’s the love we share and receive that truly sustains us and moves us forward.
Dedication – With heartfelt appreciation to my fellow writers at ReviewThisReviews.com, and especially to Sylvestermouse and Margaret, whose friendship and creativity continue to light the way. Time has been my friend because you are in my life.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Hazel, Griselda, and Moondrop weren't your average witches. For one thing, their brooms had more duct tape than straw, and their black cat had defected to the neighbor's porch two Halloweens ago.
But this year, the sisters had big plans.
"We're taking over the town!" Hazel declared, waving her wand like she was conducting an orchestra. "Every man, woman, and child will croak as frogs by midnight!"
Unfortunately, Hazel had a small problem: she never read instructions all the way through. So, when she mispronounced the spell, instead of turning the townsfolk into frogs… she turned herself into one. With a pop and a puff, there sat Hazel, slimy and green, blinking her bulgy eyes.
Griselda laughed so hard she fell into the cauldron.
But before she could crawl out, poof! she too was a frog. Then Moondrop, in her attempt to "fix it immediately," only managed to hop right into the same trap.
Three frog-witches croaked in chorus under the moonlight, glaring at each other from the pumpkin patch, so much for world domination.
From Frogs to Goats - Total Incompetence!
As frogs, the sisters had limited spell-casting power, but Griselda—always the bossy one—was determined to fix their slimy situation. She hopped onto a toadstool, puffed up her throat, and croaked out a forgotten rhyme she half-remembered from Witch School:
"Eye of newt, tail of bat,
Get us out of this, and fast at that!"
The air shimmered, the ground shook, and then—BOOM! Gone were the frogs. Success? Well… not exactly.
Instead of returning to their witchy selves, they were now goats. Yes, goats. With witch hats perched between their horns and long, crooked noses somehow still attached, they stood bleating on the side of a windswept mountain.
Hazel tried to bleat with authority: "We're… still… powerful!" But the only thing that came out was "Maaaahhh!"
The goats slipped and slid on the rocks, their robes caught on branches, and one of them even started nibbling on her own spellbook. Scary? Not so much. Spectacularly ridiculous? Absolutely.
Bikini Witches in Bali - It All Went South!
By now, Moondrop was done. "We are never going to make it to town at this rate," she bleated, stomping a hoof.
Determined, she concentrated harder than ever before, her goat-eyes glowing green. "This time, no mistakes!"
The mountain swirled. The goats spun like tops. A burst of fireworks filled the sky. And then—swoosh!—the sisters found themselves lying on soft sand with the sun beating down.
WHAT!
They were back in their witchy bodies! But there was one small catch: instead of flowing black gowns, they were now squeezed into neon bikinis!
Hazel's funky swimsuit sagged in all the wrong places, Griselda's hat flopped over her sunglasses, and Moondrop's green skin was already turning a suspicious shade of sunburn.
Each held a martini glass that didn't even have a paper umbrella, staring in disbelief at the turquoise waves rolling in.
Hazel finally slumped back in her lounge chair. “Maybe… just maybe… Halloween isn't our thing."
Griselda raised her glass. "To ghosts. Let them handle the haunting! We suck."
The three witches clinked their witchy potions together in defeat.
And so, on that Halloween night, while the rest of the world celebrated spooks and scares, three witches in bikinis sat in Bali, drinking martinis, and admitting once and for all—they were better at beach vacations than at being scary.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
What Are Redoxon Vitamin C Effervescent Tablets and Why I Take Them
Each Redoxon tablet has 1,000 mg of vitamin C, which is the equivalent of eating 10 oranges. I’m definitely not eating 10 oranges a day, so this is a simple way to give my immune system a boost. Especially with fall and winter colds going around, I feel better knowing I’m adding that extra protection. Sometimes I take it every day, sometimes every other day, but either way I feel like I’m covered.
Why I Like Effervescent Tablets
I don’t mind swallowing vitamins, but I know many people dislike taking them. That’s why this form works so well.
Simply drop the tablet in a glass of water, let it dissolve, and then drink. For me, it’s easy and actually enjoyable—it feels more like a drink than a vitamin.
The Taste is Amazing!
What hooked me most was the taste. It’s very orangey, refreshing, and bright. I usually dissolve mine in a regular cup of water (about 250 ml). I like the stronger, punchier flavor that way.
Some people in my family prefer to add it to a water bottle, which dilutes it more. Both ways work, but I love the bold orange flavor in just a cup.
The Fizz Factor
I also love the effervescence. I’m a big fan of carbonated water, and while I don’t know if this technically counts as carbonation, it definitely has a fizz to it. That fizz gives it an extra kick, making it even more enjoyable to drink.
Making It More Interesting
Every once in a while, I’ll play around with it. I’ll throw in some ice cubes or even add a squirt of lemon juice. It turns into a little drink I look forward to, instead of just “taking my vitamins.”
Other Effervescent Vitamin Choices Available
Redoxon also makes other effervescent vitamins, like multivitamins, so you can browse through different choices. For now, I’m sticking with just the vitamin C, since I already take other supplements. But if you’re curious, there are lots of options. Out of the brands I’ve tried, Redoxon—R-E-D-O-X-O-N—is definitely my favorite.
How I First Tried Redoxon Vitamin C Effervescent Tablets
I actually discovered Redoxon when we were overseas visiting family. They had some on hand, and I thought I might be catching a cold. I tried one tablet, and I was instantly impressed with both the taste and the fizz.
When we arrived back in Canada, I ordered two bottles from Amazon right away. Each one has 15 tablets, so with two, I have 30, which is plenty.
Final Thoughts
For me, Redoxon isn’t just about vitamin C. It’s about enjoying something tasty and fizzy while also doing something good for my health.
If you like orange flavor and want an easy way to get a considerable boost of vitamin C, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try.
Disclaimer
I’m not a doctor, and this post is just me sharing my own experience with Redoxon. Everyone’s health needs are different, so be sure to talk with your doctor before adding or changing vitamins in your routine.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
When it comes to wound care, I've always kept it simple. Living in Canada, Polysporin has been my go-to for as long as I can remember—it's the first thing I reach for when there's a cut, scrape, or any other wound that needs healing.
I Used to Use Regular Honey… Until I Learned Why I Shouldn't!
A few years ago, I used to apply regular organic honey to minor wounds, thinking it was a natural and soothing solution. And truthfully, I never had any bad reactions to it. But earlier this year, I happened to do some reading—and wow, I had no idea that using non-medical honey on open wounds wasn't actually recommended.
Apparently, regular honey (even organic) can contain bacteria or spores that haven't been filtered out, which makes it unsafe for wound use.
That discovery led me down a research rabbit hole, and it was there that I first came across medical-grade honey, specifically Manuka Honeyfrom New Zealand.
Discovering ActiVon
That research led me to a product called ActiVon Medical Grade Manuka Honey, and I decided to give it a try.
Right away, I could tell this wasn't anything like using regular honey. ActiVon is sterilized, filtered, and formulated specifically for wound care. It's a 100% medical-grade Manuka honey gel—nothing added, no preservatives—and it's safe to apply directly to open skin.
It's designed to create a moist healing environment, which is actually better for wound recovery. The gel has a thick but smooth consistency, making it easy to apply, and it stays in place nicely.
How I Personally Use It
This year, I had a wound that was healing well, but I still wanted to support the healing process and make sure everything stayed clean and healthy. I used a small amount of ActiVon directly on the area, and in my typical Canadian style, I paired it with a dab of Polysporin—that's just my habit.
Let me be clear: I'm not a doctor, and I don't recommend mixing products like that. I'm sharing what I personally did, and it worked well for me.
What Makes ActiVon Stand Out
Here's what impressed me most about using ActiVon:
It keeps the wound moist, which helps promote faster healing and reduces the likelihood of scarring.
It creates an osmotic effect, which gently pulls out harmful tissue and debris from the wound bed.
It reduces the risk of infection while eliminating odors—without masking anything artificially.
It felt gentle, and even though I was nervous to apply honey to a healing wound, it felt soothing. It's a bit sticky, of course, but that's to be expected.
It's 100% natural, and the fact that it doesn't absorb into the bloodstream makes it a safe option.
It contains no added preservatives, only pure, medical-grade Manuka honey that has been filtered and sterilized.
The packaging makes it easy to use, and I love that the tube size is perfect—not too big, not too small.
A New Favorite in My First Aid Kit
This has now become a product I keep on hand. I've even purchased a second tube—just to have in case I need it again. It gave me peace of mind knowing I was using something natural yet medically designed for healing.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely—but with the usual disclaimer: talk to your doctor first.
I'm someone who tends to dive in and try things on my own (sometimes before asking anyone!), but not everyone should do that.
If you're considering trying ActiVon for wound care, it's best to get professional guidance, especially if you're dealing with chronic or serious wounds.
Disclaimer:
I'm not a medical professional. I'm sharing my personal experience using ActiVon. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any new product on wounds, especially if you have existing health conditions, Bee allergies, other allergies, or are treating serious injuries.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
