The Optimistic Musings of a Pessimist

Happy Things Friday: 23 October

I’m girding my proverbial loins for the next 36 hours; it’s going to be a doozy. A church event our family is volunteering at is happening this weekend and it’s sure to be a…

Cool Bloggers Walking Club: Week 3

Show of hands: who’s ready to talk about another week of walks?

(Not Belle. She always asks if the most recent blog post is one she’ll enjoy reading and usually follows that up by saying:…

Top Five/Bottom Five: Halloween Treat Edition

I posted a version of this Top Five/Bottom Five THREE whole years ago, which feels like forever in blogger time.

And, since ’tis the season, I figured it was high time we revisited a very…

Halloween, Holidays, Personality Insights, Top Five/Bottom Five
Oct, 21, 2026
30 Comments

Holiday Gift Guides 2026: Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

I know it’s early to be thinking about Christmas.

Also, it’s not early.

The holiday season is barrelling toward us like a freight train and I’ve decided I can stare at it like a deer…

Gift Guide, Christmas, Holidays
Oct, 20, 2026

20 Gift Ideas for Men (Recommended by My Husband)

I sat down with my husband, John, and asked for his input on gift ideas for men and… he had plenty of suggestions!

Today’s “guide” is the result.

All of these items are things we own…

Our European Adventures: The Tree Pose Edition

About the midway point of our trip, Indy got into the habit of striking a tree pose in various and sundry locations. (I will admit I wish this tradition had started on Day One!…