Ask Elizabeth: Embracing a New Home

Dear Elizabeth,

Time for a new place. I am starting a new job in a new town. I will be needing a new place to live. My new home will be my first without “Mr. Wonderful.” Any suggestions for a new place?

Moving to Maryland

Dear Moving to Maryland,

Peace, calm, and quiet are now the house and gardens buzzwords of any feisty woman who has moved on in her new life without “Mr.Wonderful.” Buy some beautiful plants. Create that “perfect” place of rest, relaxation, and comfort in your home. Embrace your new changes. Find a beautiful, bright sunny place to live. A park nearby is a great idea, too. Enjoy!

Ask Elizabeth: Speak Up For Justice

Dear Elizabeth,

I am not happy with what’s going on in the world today. I’d like to do something to help. Suggestions?

Seeking Solutions in San Francisco

Dear Seeking Solutions in San Francisco,

My motto for all feisty women who, like me, want the world to be a better place for everyone is to speak up. Being politically active is one way to improve the lives of all people. I personally feel that many things in our society need a small “tweak,” so I try my best to always speak up and let people know what I think and offer suggestions to do just that. I participate in numerous surveys every week and call local and national politicians often. I strongly believe that all feisty women must speak up to make our world better for everyone. It is part of our “calling.” Do your part to make the world a better place each and every day.

Ask Elizabeth: the Importance of Eating During Tough Times

Dear Elizabeth,

I seem to have lost an interest in food. I am going through some trying times as I split up from my very special “Mr.Wonderful.” Any suggestions?

Signed,
Food Stuck in Fresno

Dear Food Stuck in Fresno,

Life’s ordeals strike us all differently. I do not eat either when I am upset, but I know that others really do “pig out.” I would start slow and small. Maybe a cup of tea. Or a salad. A pastry? Chocolate? I have also found that little snacks and get-togethers with friends are a lifesaver for the feisty woman struggling to get through her post-break-up with “Mr.Wonderful,” one day at a time. You need the fuel that food offers to keep moving forward in your life. So go out, eat-in, eat in the park, take a walk, and eat while you walk. You could also share a meal, get a pizza, eat at the diner, try a new restaurant, or learn to cook. So many choices, feisty women, so many delicious choices are yours for the nutrition that your body needs to get you through this life transition. Just choose one and go from there. And take a friend with you for encouragement. Enjoy!

Ask Elizabeth: Every Day Is a Gift as Your New Life Unfolds

Dear Elizabeth,
I am a bit at loose ends right now. “Mr.Wonderful” and I are done. I now need some new interests and hobbies. Any suggestions?

At a crossroads in Arlington

Dear At a crossroad in Arlington,

Many friends have shared their stories with me about this “new life.” I always start the day with positive affirmations and the day generally gets better as it goes along. I also write five or more uplifting events of my day and a list of the great people that I have interacted with that day every evening in my “gratitude journal.”

Explore new hobbies. Take a class. Volunteer. Become active in a religious or environmental group. I started a small business. Embrace your new life by making a difference, something that our world really needs now. Good luck.

Ask Elizabeth: Should You Always Be Available For a Friend?

Dear Elizabeth,

I told a friend who was going through some rough times that I would always be there for her. She is, however, always calling me after 11 p.m. I need my rest but want to keep my promise. Any suggestions?

Sleepless in San Francisco

Dear Sleepless in San Francisco,

You need to keep your promise of always being there for your friend. Just set up a timetable for calls and stick to it. You both can then get your sleep and still be there for each other when you are awake and functioning. Call each other before 11 p.m. and then call it a day. This has worked for me and might just work for you.

When in Doubt, Zoom!

We all might have opinions about being part of a Zoom session, but we should realize that having a Zoom meeting of any sort may have saved our sanity in the last few years. Even as we emerge from pan- demic lockdown, many Zoom meetings remain in place. Many people, especially those who are medically compromised, benefit from the sessions. Since you can see the face of the person talking to you, it is better than talking on the phone. Many friends have shared their great Zoom experiences with me.