Plan an inflation-proof family vacation

With stubborn inflation continuing to drive up the cost of living, families are being forced to make some tough choices when it comes to the way they spend their hard-earned dollars. Many, for instance, are choosing to forego their annual family vacation to help trim the budgetary fat.

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING - Finding the sacred within the ordinary

Let us find the sacred deep within the ordinary, in the sweetness in our coffee and the bread on our table. Let us never miss a chance to praise what is good—and let the rest go by.+Donna Schaper Pleasing yourself with special treats from time to time is vital to a healthy, satisfying life….

NOBODY'S PERFECT - The NOSE knows people might need odd shoes

MY SHOES DIDN’T FIT. I just got an ankle foot orthotic (AFO) on my right leg, and my orthotist warned me that getting shoes to fit my new brace might be a big deal, a challenge.

A WALK IN THE PARK - Happy trails

Sponsored by Wood County Park Districtby LeMoyne MercerRECENTLY I WAS ranting about the ever-increasing crowds in our national parks. Attendance records have been set every year since COVID even in places you never heard of.

Social Security: maximizing benefits

Most understand that waiting to claim Social Security benefits can result in higher monthly payments. However, many don’t know that there are other ways to maximize their benefits, some of which depend on their marital status.

Manifestation: understanding the law of attraction

OPRAH WINFREY LIKES TO CREDIT her success in life to a keen understanding of manifestation, the law of attraction. And even centuries ago, Plato seemed to know it too, when he observed, “like attracts like.

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING - What is going on in our world today?

Authentic power is the ability to act from the fullness of who I am, the capacity to establish and maintain a relationship with people and things, and the freedom to give myself away.

Nobody’s perfect - It’s coming—a more accessible doctor’s appointment

SUSAN PUT OFF SCHEDULING her annual doctor’s checkup for months. It wasn’t that she was afraid of the blood tests or medicines, it was an anxiety about getting in place safely.Getting into the office is a challenge for her. There is a paved ramp with a sharp turn on it leading to the entrance.