With no husband to complain about my bad habits and quirky tastes, I’m free to think and do lots of things I’d set aside for many years. Read more.
Barbara’s Riffs on Life
Is There an Upside to Widowhood? I’m Looking at the Possibilities
Now that Jon is gone, I am keeping an eye out for reasons to like going it alone. I’m wondering, are there any upsides to widowhood? Read more.
Widowed: Did He Die in Anguish?
No, Jon did not suffer. He did not die in anguish. It was over quickly, she said. Before he knew what was happening. Read more.
Widowed: Advice From Beyond the Grave — Party On!
How to mark the anniversary of Jon’s death? A visit to the cemetery seemed in order. Then along came some advice from my dead husband. Read more.
Wishing You a Hope-y New Year
Hope-y New Year! Here’s to a hope-filled 2022. Not because hope will solve the climate crisis or end the culture wars. But just . . . because. Read more.
It’s Christmas — And This Is What Merry Looks Like
Want to know what merry looks like? Climb the stairs to the choir loft at the Toledo Cathedral in Spain. A merry scene awaits you. Read more.





