by Marlene Bumgarner | Nov 2, 2015 | Family, Good Reads, Grandparenting, Health, Nature
Last week I introduced Richard Louv’s concept of nature deficit disorder, and his theory that helping children develop a connection with nature may prevent a variety of health and behavioral issues Ever since, I’ve been thinking about those three butterfly...
by Marlene Bumgarner | Oct 26, 2015 | Family, Grandparenting, Health
Monarch Butterflies Return to the California Coast Those of you who are regular readers know that I often walk along the Santa Cruz coast road and in Lighthouse Field State Park with my dog, Kismet. October marks the return of the Monarch Butterflies to the...
by Marlene Bumgarner | Oct 19, 2015 | Aging, Community, Family
What I’m Reading This Week I’ve been thinking about the role of grandparents in our 21st century society, and this book was recommended to me as one which proposes some actions that “America’s Most Audacious Generation” might take to lead...
by Marlene Bumgarner | Oct 12, 2015 | Aging, Community, Family
I went to my 50th high school reunion last weekend. For many people, the decision whether or not to go to their class reunion is excruciating. But I went and survived, and I’m alive and well to tell my story. And my message is this: You Should Go Even if...
by Marlene Bumgarner | Oct 7, 2015 | Family, Grandparenting, Writing
Last week “Why are you holding the owl, Grandma?” “I’m not sure. It seemed to leap into my hand.” “You are so silly, Grandma. It’s not real. Is it?” Good question. Conclusion “Am I real? What kind of question is...
by Marlene Bumgarner | Sep 30, 2015 | Family, Grandparenting, Writing
Today I find myself watching the owl carefully. Its head does not move, but its eyes follow me as I stand up and go to answer the door. I take it down from the mantel and take it with me. “Why are you holding the owl, Grandma?” “I’m not sure....