I have become what one would term as a “football widow.” The only sport my husband is truly passionate about watching is football. So, on Sunday afternoons, Monday and Thursday nights I am left on my own because I have little to no interest in football.  

Folks know my preference to work outdoors. Not hard labor (of course I have the ability); just setting up on my deck with much the same accoutrements I enjoy at when in my office (where I draft today’s commentary). The internet, cordless phone, iPhone, iPad and MacBook all facilitate a seamless transition from a desk inside to a comparative outside setup. The mobile devices even ease working a bit inside a park as I did taking my coffee early at Alley (Pond Park)-Springfield before the 11:00 a.m.

As I walked out of the house this morning (Friday) I fell a chill!   Something I hadn't felt in, what seemed like, a long time.    The cool crisp air was refreshing. My thoughts started to drift towards fall activities...buying a cord of wood to heat the house, pruning some pesky trees and bushes and getting the snow thrower started.   With the dry summer we had, the prospects for leaf peeping might not be as exciting as in the past. Let's see what colors fall brings.   

Recently, when I was in France to witness the start of the around the world Golden Globe Race (GGR) , I introduced myself to GGR Director Don McIntyre.  Don is an Australian who possesses a deep and broad adventure background.

Teams. As I was watching the U.S. Tennis Open, I heard several of the players refer, and thank, their “Team”, as the camera scanned over to a spectator box with several people in it. Perhaps it is the new rule in tennis that allows coaching during a match.  I’ve noticed increasing references to “teams” - in the business world and elsewhere.

The Emmy Awards last night featured an intense battle for best drama series.   “Better Call Saul”, “Euphoria”, “Ozark”, “Severance”, “Squid Game”, “Stranger Things” and “Yellow Jackets” made for a killer category of shows.  Due to Covid, “Succession” was not in the running last year and “The Crown” reigned.  

I admit I’ve been a bit of a royal watcher over the years.  It started with my interest in Diana.   The past few days have been historic for royal watchers.  Literally, the world changed.

We had a very interesting discussion in my Weight Watchers meeting recently. The topic was self esteem and our tendency to focus on our perceived negatives in ourselves.   For example, most people could probably more easily answer the question, “What are you lacking?” rather than “What are your strengthens?”