The news of Rob Reiner's passing hit me hard this morning. In the wake of this tragedy, I find myself doing what I always do when processing difficult emotions—turning to the stories that have shaped me. And Rob Reiner gave us so many stories. Stories that made us laugh until we cried, stories that broke … Continue reading The Stories He Gave Us: Remembering Rob Reiner Through Eight Films
On a Serious Note
What If Lincoln Had Lived?
In 2025, we mark 160 years since the end of the American Civil War—a brutal conflict that defined, divided, and ultimately reshaped our nation. It’s also been 160 years since the tragic night when Abraham Lincoln, one of our greatest presidents, was struck down at Ford’s Theatre, just days after Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. For … Continue reading What If Lincoln Had Lived?
Prequel Politics in the Star Wars Galaxy
The Star Wars saga has captivated audiences for decades with its epic space battles, mystical Force powers, and compelling characters. Yet beneath the spectacle lies a sophisticated political narrative, particularly in George Lucas's prequel trilogy (1999-2005). While casual viewers might see only lightsaber duels and space dogfights, these films offer a nuanced examination of how … Continue reading Prequel Politics in the Star Wars Galaxy
An Icon Takes His Final Bow: Remembering Val Kilmer
Val Edward Kilmer, an actor whose remarkable versatility and intense performances defined a generation of American cinema, has passed away at the age of 65. Kilmer died on April 1, 2025, in Los Angeles due to pneumonia after a decade-long battle with throat cancer, as confirmed by his daughter, actress Mercedes Kilmer. The Man of … Continue reading An Icon Takes His Final Bow: Remembering Val Kilmer
A Voice for the Ages: Remembering James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones, the actor whose commanding bass voice and powerful presence captivated audiences for over seven decades, passed away on September 9, 2024, at his home in Dutchess County, New York. He was 93 years old. Born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones overcame a severe childhood stutter to become one of … Continue reading A Voice for the Ages: Remembering James Earl Jones
The Healing Power of Art Therapy
Today, we're diving into a realm where creativity meets catharsis, where colors wield their magic, and where self-expression becomes a powerful tool for healing - yes, you guessed it - Art Therapy! Because the title of this post wasn't enough to give it away... Now, before you start picturing a Freudian psychoanalyst analyzing your doodles, … Continue reading The Healing Power of Art Therapy
8 Things About Mental Health They Don’t Teach in School
In today's fast-paced and often demanding world, taking care of our mental health is more important than ever. While schools play a crucial role in imparting academic knowledge, they often fall short when it comes to teaching students about emotional well-being and mental health. The truth is, understanding and nurturing our mental health is an … Continue reading 8 Things About Mental Health They Don’t Teach in School
Remembering Mamaw
Jane Metts - Christmas 2022 As I sit down to write this tribute, my heart is heavy with sorrow yet filled with warm memories of my dear grandmother, who we lovingly called Mamaw. She left us this morning at the age of 91 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Mamaw was not just a … Continue reading Remembering Mamaw
Reasons You Should Care About Ethical Consumerism and Fair Trade
In a world driven by consumer choices and global supply chains, the impact of our purchasing decisions extends far beyond our immediate surroundings. Ethical consumerism and fair trade are powerful concepts that advocate for responsible consumption and promote equitable treatment of producers and workers. Caring about ethical consumerism and fair trade means recognizing that our … Continue reading Reasons You Should Care About Ethical Consumerism and Fair Trade
On the 2nd Day of Blogmas…
Did you know that yesterday was National Christmas Lights Day? Man... there's a day for all the things. Anyway, it's fitting that a friend from work shared an infographic with a helpful list of electrical safety tips for the home and office. I mean, sure it's fun to watch Clark Griswold hang 25,000 twinkling lights … Continue reading On the 2nd Day of Blogmas…
The Confusing Middle 