Years ago a somewhat wise person told me the more birthdays you have, the longer you live. This came to mind recently when I celebrated another birthday.
Only one time in my 33-year career have I witnessed an heir negotiate their own inheritance before the death of a parent.
Author’s note: Over the past 14 years since retirement, I consciously removed myself from the front lines on helping rural families with their life challenges — especially in the realm of economic crisis, which some farmers are now facing again.
As a society, we are too often preoccupied with the superficial. Good looks and athletic ability too often carry more weight than a pleasant personality, a caring heart and mental acuity.
As I continue to plod my way through winter, I’ve been mindful in trying to follow my own recommendations when it comes to managing mental health.
- By Tom Barton, Lee-Gazette Des Moines Bureau
Farmers and business leaders say the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision striking down President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs Feb. 20 underscores the need for stability in trade policy, while also amplifying concerns about the economic strain tariffs have placed on agriculture and manufacturing…
Back in 1935 when Fats Waller recorded “I’m Going to Sit Right Down and Right Myself a Letter” he had no idea that the written letter — a common means of communication for centuries — would be an endangered art form 90 years later.
I think it was the winter of 1977-78, one of the coldest and snowiest winters on record. I still remember the “treat” of being snowed in on a Thursday and Friday, so we kids had a four-day weekend.
Some time back I saw a bumper sticker that read, “If you can read this, thank a teacher.” I quietly mumbled, “Amen.”
We just celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary by taking a four-day cruise from New Orleans to Cozumel, Mexico. On a cruise ship, we had a captive audience, prepared meals, lots of entertainment venues and fun activities for every age group.
Today was a hard day. Even though we are in a new calendar year, for some folks it may not be easy to start fresh. We are supposed have “resolutions” and a positive outlook for the new year.
Some time back I saw a bumper sticker that read, “If you can read this, thank a teacher.” I quietly mumbled, “Amen.”
Editor’s note: This was originally published July 29, 2010.
Today is the winter solstice. Upon waking, Rudi, my German Shepherd, and I went outside and were treated to a spectacular eastern sky backlit with delicious orange cream, pink and lilac colors. It was an intense visual treat.
Editor’s note: The following was originally published Dec. 30, 2007.
Editor’s note: This column was originally published Dec. 15, 2005.
I just checked the weather forecast. At this next time week, the day’s high temperature is supposed to be 45 degrees cooler than today.
Take an afternoon drive around an urban or suburban area anywhere in the Midwest. Look at the houses. What is missing from these homes that would likely have been there 50 years ago?
My wife and I chose to finish my PhD by doing a yearlong internship in clinical psychology in Nebraska. After completing my professional training, we decided to stay in the Midwest.
I’m a senior citizen and I’m mature enough to admit to my faults.
Editor’s note: The first part of this column ran in the Oct. 25 issue.
I’m a senior citizen and I’m mature enough to admit to my faults.
We gardeners hastily pick our remaining produce, watch the weather reports and wonder how many more days we can eke out until the killing frost.