Alexandre Dumas was born in France of 1802 and also the writer of some legendary books. The Three Musketeers and one of my favorites…The Count of Monte Cristo, to name just a couple. There is not much to be found of his childhood, but his father came from quite an interesting background. Alexandre’s father, Thomas,…
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I had a funny moment at work today. I work in 12 story building with various companies utilizing suites on every floor. I was about to leave for the day and pushed the elevator button to get to the level that I parked on. I hear the elevator moving behind those shiny double doors (there…
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Every day I have to take the elevator. Not just once mind you. Multiple times. It pains me greatly and no, that is not sarcasm you sense…but desperate whimpers of torment and fear. I think I can juuust make it down to the first floor without any interruptions…IF I chose my timing right. Alas, there…
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John Keats was born in London, on October 29th, 1795. John was the oldest of four children. His father was an ostler (which leaves me jealous with envy) and the family was raised quite humbly. His family couldn’t afford to send John away to the nearest prestigious schools. Consequently, off John and his brother George…
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Arthur O’Shaughnessy was born in London, England during 1844. He was a poet and a herpetologist. His fascination with reptiles and amphibians was indeed quite fierce! During his life, he discovered six new species of reptiles. Despite his great interest with reptiles, his heart was most in debt to literature. And can we blame him?…
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Albert Einstein. Everyone I personally know has heard of him…but how much do we really know about him aside from the fact he developed the theory of relativity and was you know, an overall genius? Born in 1879, Albert was born in Ulm, a city in the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg to his parents (Ashkenazi…
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Ella Wheeler Wilcox was born on a small farm in Wisconsin. Her family prided themselves on being “intellectuals” and strived to master the various distinctions of the English language. Ella was often found reading books, newspapers and really, anything she could get her eager hands on. Her mother was a musician and her father, a…
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Joseph Rudyard Kipling was a poet, short-story writer, created the well-loved story of Mowgli, and was presented with the Nobel Prize for Literature. Joseph was born in Bombay during 1865. His parents met and married in England but soon after, Joseph’s father, (John) was offered a position in India as a Professor. At only five…
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Plants. Oh, you pretty, pretty things. Do you ever just wander in the luscious green and think, “Ahhhh, this poetic earth sweeps me into an alternate realm”. I recently realized my plants are becoming a little bit more than a hobby. Is that odd? Eh, perhaps. But I’ve always been a wanderer, drawn to any…
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Upton Sinclair was born in 1878. His work as a writer, political activist and muckraker deemed him worthy of winning a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1943. Upton was an honest, hard-working man that pushed his way through distasteful territory, bringing both the working man’s and the industrialist’s perspective to the forefront. He was described…
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Attachment styles created at infancy…are they a template for our future relationships? Did our parents’ certain parenting style in raising us from infancy impact the quality of our adult romantic relationships? Well, based on a few amazing studies, it does in fact seem that an infant’s attachment style forms a model for future relationships. Based…
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Here is your reminder to look for your daily delights today. I’m sure once you take a look around your day, you’ll see how many (mini or big) delights have always been sitting there, just minding their own business, waiting to be noticed; to be appreciated. On this particular day, I sang aloud as I…
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Robert Schumann was one of the greatest composers during the Romantic era. Robert was born in Central Germany during 1810. It seemed he came out of the womb having an immediate draw towards music. He began soaking in literature and music as early as possible! His father made this quite easy for little Robert, being…
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A happy, cheerful man, a lover of practical jokes, soaked with topnotch humor, Joseph Haydn offered much more than just a poetic talent of composition and musicality. Joseph’s early life of poverty made him skilled in business deals and quite the shark of negotiations. He was short and said to not be the most attractive…
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Erik Satie was a composer, a pianist, and an author. Born in May of 1866 in Honfleur, Normandy to a French father and British mother, Alfred and Jane. A year after little Erik was born, along came Olga and then a second son, Conrad. Alfred was a shipping broker and after the Franco-Prussian War, he…
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Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 1 second, breathe out for 8 seconds, hold for 1. And repeat. Feel better? I find that deep breathing really does relax me when nothing else will. No, I can’t shut off my worries with the snap of a finger, and no, it won’t stop my initial panic…
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What allows some people to roll around through life without anxiety or worry, but others rock back and forth in fixation of the possibilities? Don’t sweat the small stuff they say. Who says this? Where are they? Are they even human?! Okay, all jokes aside… Do these miracle people truly never sweat the small stuff? How can…
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She was quiet, shy and a lover of books. Who am I speaking of you may wonder…me? No, though I connect with each of those descriptions on an extreme level. Agatha Christie grew up with a father from America and a mother from London. The youngest of three, Agatha was treated a bit different than…
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“But words are things, and a small drop of ink,Falling, like dew, upon a thought producesThat which makes thousands, perhaps millions think.” Lord Byron was a deep thinker and a curious soul consumed with fleeting pleasures of life. He loved animals, swimming in the ocean, any adventure to be had wouldn’t be ignored, and he…
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Germs. I’ve always been a very… aware person. Even as a kid. Someone would walk past me, I’d hold my breath and wash my hands incessantly. Presently, I wash my hands before I eat anything, I wipe down door knobs in my own home, sanitize light switches and remotes, keep sanitizer in my car and…
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Welp. I quit my job. I’m jobless. And I’m freaking out. Are you freaking out? Cause I’m freaking out! Have you ever tried to find a new job and realize that it’s palpably impossible to even navigate options if you are going to be an honest employee? I pride myself on being an honest gal….
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“As you wish”. What a line. Do you ever say something with another meaning intended, desperately hoping the other party will catch on? In the movie (AND the novel), The Princess Bride, “As you wish,” equates to, “I love you”. The humor, the romance, the adventure…who thought of such a storyline? William Goldman. William was…
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Obligatory small talk. It’s almost bad enough to make your ears bend into odd shapes and trigger you to whip out your notepad and vent about! (My cat gets it!) Do you ever get invited out to a larger gathering with folks you don’t know on a personal level (or perhaps a smaller work lunch)…
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Do you really turn into your parents as you grow up? Now, don’t get me wrong, I love my parents very much and they were/are great parents. I was lucky to have a mother who was a social butterfly (unlike this quiet lady typing) and wanted her daughters to have ALL the sleepovers, ALL the…
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Is it just me? Or are some names more powerful and poetic that others? Elizabeth Barrett Browning. It sounds like a strong, graceful eagle, soaring above as if to look upon those below, with a guiding breeze trailing behind her. She glides along, echoing a whisper of encouragement and humor, smiling upon those worthy enough…
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Tis the season to panic. I’m not one to enjoy a home flooded with guests I don’t know all that well. I take my home (my retreat) very seriously. It’s my little oasis of meaningful things and maintained energy that brings me a level of calm serenity, reliability and offers a sense of security… perhaps…
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At work this week we have no air conditioning. One would presume that would be adequate reason to work from home…I mean, we have full capability to connect to the major networks from home and do our job in all its entirety without any hinderance. So, we’re going to work from home, right? Wrong. For…
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Louisa May Alcott was most known for her famous novel Little Women that was published in 1868. Her success wasn’t limited to this ever-loved novel, or the additional sequels that followed later on. With short stories, poetry and a list of other winning novels, Louisa was quite a sensation during her century, as well as…
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The other day I went out for a run and felt like I had been reincarnated as a log being dragged behind an old, nearly broken car. My legs were shaking, my knees hurt, my head felt heavy, and my chest felt like it had transformed a into wheezy windpipe. I walked outside of my…
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We all have a history. Our backgrounds are what shape us into who we are today. I’m always curious to know the good, bad, recent, and old stories of those I’m closest to. It had me thinking about my own past and things I’ve worked on within myself. Interestingly, upon pondering over a few situations…
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I often wonder just how many misunderstandings occur each day. No two minds are exactly alike. People don’t often have the time, circumstances, or nerve to explain the intention behind all actions, words expressed, or looks exchanged; not to mention that would consume one’s day quite extensively if we did. There are many people who…
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Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, also known as Americas Poet, was born in 1807 in Maine. He was criticized for writing poetry that was too sentimental. Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t that usually what makes the BEST poetry? Perhaps there was a reason why he wrote of such sentimentalities…? At the age of three, Henry…
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If you could tell your younger self any one thing, what would it be? For me, I’d tell myself to never try to “make” someone love you. Some people think they want to be in a relationship, but don’t know how to give you what you need. If they don’t hear you the first time,…
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Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten? I’ve always loathed this question. “Why are you asking me this,” is always my immediate thought. I’ve heard it in job interviews, dates I’ve gone on, and every time, I’d cringe a bit and say to myself, “Really?” What makes some people have this 5 or…
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I think we all have something we’re holding onto that isn’t serving any purpose. Perhaps because of having hope something will change, or not feeling ready to accept the reality of a situation; an ending. Freeing ourselves from ties that shouldn’t still be there is sometimes a scary and harsh reality for many. We oddly…
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Albert Einstein’s curiosity led to a multitude of wins in life; for him and for everyone living since. Are you curious about things? Do you often sit and wonder about people, their backgrounds, their innermost thoughts? I know it can’t just be me! I feel like sometimes I’m way too curious. By curious, I don’t…
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What would you do differently if you knew nobody was judging you? I know what I would do. I’d frolic everywhere I went, I’d never wear makeup, I’d more than likely sing out loud all the time (because I always have a song in my head) and I’d be much more carefree with being center…
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Are you living your life or just merely existing in it? What’s the difference? I have periods I am most definitely up in the clouds, watching myself from above as I run from task to task. I hear the alarm and feel the push of life against my back, forcing me into a mad rush…
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How do you help those unable to make necessary changes in themselves? This could fall into any category really, but let’s shoot the dart towards toxic and/or abusive relationships. Why do some people stay in that type of situation and continue to lay captive within a dark web of stress and unhealthy energy? Especially if…
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I realized there are two types of people. Type 1: You remember your most embarrassing moments in great detail, and shudder at the recollection of it. Type 2: You can’t seem to think of an embarrassing moment, but when asked, mention a slightly awkward occurrence that is actually quite normal for anyone who interacts with…
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Do you ever just go for a walk and listen to the silence? No podcast, no music, no company. Only you and your soul to wander and soak in the surroundings. Taking time to actually notice things is an important process of learning how to appreciate the small, simple pleasures in life (that we often…
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“Smile though your heart is achingSmile even though it’s breakingWhen there are clouds in the sky, you’ll get byIf you smile through your fear and sorrowSmile and maybe tomorrowYou’ll see the sun come shining through for you…” This song is one I’ve known as long as my memory can recall. I remember hearing it in…
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J.R.R. Tolkien was born January 1892 to Arthur and Mabel in Bloemfontein (one of South Africa’s three capital cities). J.R.R. sounds so formal, does it not? What is this abbreviation short for, you may ask? John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, also known as the author of several world-renowned books that have developed into celebrated movies. The Hobbit,…
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Is it just me or are Fridays extra long? Are you staring at the clock, wondering if something is pulling the universe in reverse? No? Just me? All we want to do is just get the weekend started. Are we really asking that much world? My favorite thing about Fridays is knowing I don’t have…
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Herman Melville was born in New York City in 1819, to Alan and Maria. Herman was third-born out of 8 children. His father was often traveling in Europe for work, an importer (not exporter) of French dry goods. Herman grew up with three or more servants in the household and the family was indeed financially…
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When you are compatible with someone but don’t have many interests in common, are you doomed? In my humble opinion, I say no. Depending on a few things. If you occupy a similar energy and overall mindset/attitude and mutual understanding of expectations, this can usually offset contrasts in hobbies. I’ve been in situations when I…
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How can something so similar in one aspect be so different in another? Everyone has different limitations and capabilities. What makes some limitations acceptable and others not? The more understood and common limitations are, they are obviously going to be judged less and often may even bring people together, due to bonding over a relatable…
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Do you know Arthur’s methods? No? I don’t either…but Watson sure does. Arthur Conan Doyle was born in Scotland in the year of 1859. Arthur is the celebrated author of Sherlock Holmes, among several other prominent publications. A man of great intellect and curiosity, Arthur was often busy and frequently throwing himself into unfamiliar territory….
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WARNING: If you have lost a loved one due to suicide, please note the below blog post speaks candidly regarding the subject. Hugs to all dealing with depression and/or loss of someone due to this ongoing battle. I’m sure most of you are familiar with Sylvia Plath and the darker side of her life. But…
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“I’m proud of you.” Those four words have so much power. More than I can even comprehend. Positive affirmations are real and can have a profound impact on each individual. Sometimes, the compliments that make us the most emotional and uncomfortable are the words we’re longing for most. Specific words may make us uncomfortable because…
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Have you ever thought, “Wow, that person is so nice. I like their energy. I wish I knew how to approach them…” I can attest that, yes, I have thought this a few times recently. I’d be at the gym or out for a walk, there’s a vibe or energy exuding from this person you…
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Imagine being born during a time when people weren’t aware of different illnesses and health conditions as they are today. Imagine not having anywhere to go for an analysis of what’s even wrong. Samuel Johnson (no, not Jackson) was born in 1709. His mother birthed him at the age of 40 and worries were consuming…
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“What is love? Oh baby, don’t hurt me. Don’t hurt me, no more…”, credits to Haddaway for some jamming tunes from 93! Were you bobbing your head, or was that only me? Love…what is it? What does love mean to you? Can you only have one true, authentic love in your lifetime? Or is it…
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Busy nothings. Ah yes, I can relate. Jane Austen peered down at criticism with witty remarks and respectful patience. Her soul was that of a romantic, but her desire to mark her place in this world with her artistic tension consumed what little left of her soul was remaining. Jane was born in 1775 to…
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Let’s all roll a tire, shall we? Introverts are naturally more independent and often radiate while working on solo projects. Shocking, right? My thoughts are comparable to one big wheel being rolled along with a stick. I push “it” along the pavement, and it rolls swiftly, no one really hears it coming, alas, it comes….
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How much do you need to push yourself out of your comfort zone to experience personal growth and develop as a person? Being a person who relishes in meaningful, quality conversations, reading by candlelight or adventures outdoors, I find that most situations that involve a forced social setting (like networking) or obligatory appearances make my…
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“Psst. Carrots! Hey, Carrots!” Please don’t throw a slate at the computer. That wouldn’t benefit anyone guys! One of my favorite film series as a young child, later, becoming one of my favorite books is Anne of Green Gables. What an endearing, idealistic classic. Have you ever wondered about the woman who wrote this timeless…
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When are you happiest? Alone? With people? A happy blend of both? Do you enjoy a life of spontaneity and freedom from routine? Or do you find you draw towards regimented days and obligations to center you? I realized I sometimes find myself longing for what I don’t have. If I’m constantly on the run,…
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Do you ever stare at your feet? Today I found myself spacing out for a moment, daydreaming about all the places my feet have taken me. Odd, I know. But I came to terms quite some time ago that I was definitely odd and definitely a daydreamer. I can live with it. It’s bizarre when…
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Wow. Can I just say it again? Wow. Mary Shelley is a marvel! This lady had quite the life. All of which I can’t fit into this blog post, as I know about 98% of the readers would feel defeated just seeing how lengthy the post turned out. Alas, I felt the need to just…
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Do you own any pets? Or do you merely admire them from afar and if lucky to be near a random furry friend, eagerly run up to, fondle, talk sweetly to and dream of owning one? I’ve had pets as long as I can remember. I have a cat who is quite old now, (17…
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Do you ever feel like your introvert self is melting away? As if the world is holding up a fierce circle of overbearing, burning candles that surround you? You keep blowing at the fire, trying to get relief from at least one of the candles, but the flame won’t wane? I go through phases where…
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Do you enjoy cooking? Or eating? I can pretty much guarantee that you like at least one of these options. If not, I doubt you’ll be reading this much longer. I enjoy both on a substantial level. Cooking on a leisurely weekend, with candles lit, music or an old movie playing, and sipping a new…
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Edith Wharton. What a name eh? Before you look her up, let me impart a few fun facts I found compelling! Now, I’ve loved books as long as I can remember, but I don’t recall walking around at 4 years old telling family and friends entertaining, lengthy, detailed stories I made up, which is exactly…
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Have you ever been the target of juicy gossip? It seems that most of us have, at one point or another. My worst experience was when I was going through my divorce several years ago. I was just trying to deal, but all these curious kittens couldn’t keep their nosey noses out of it. They…
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Best and worst trait? Annnnnd go! I think about my worst trait quite often, only because I am continuously working on improving it. Should I tell you mine? I don’t know. I’ll probably overthink it if I do. Yep. You guessed it. I overthink, overanalyze, worry…any of the above, I do it. And I do…
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One of my favorite memories from when I was little is laying in the soft grass of our backyard. Beforehand, I’d usually run hard on the property my parents owned, (a couple of acres with the woods surrounding us). Little did I know how much I’d look back on that period of my life and…
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Running. It’s always been one of my passions. It’s been my therapy, my exercise, my physical release, my confidence booster, my safe haven…my identity. I could always count on running to pull me out of whatever funk I was in, re-center my thoughts and leave me with the best endorphin high imaginable. Then, injuries commence!…
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I have a thing for old movies. The good ol’ black and white pictures of previous generations. Ah yes, take me back Gregory Peck. There is something so comforting about old films to me. I don’t really remember when I started to have this little obsession of the oldies. I do know I went through…
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I recently read a book that spoke of the benefits of having a growth mindset vs a fixed mindset. If your natural inclination is to avoid something because you’re unsure you will be successful at it, you are more often than not, in a fixed mindset. I personally think one person is fully capable of…
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As you may have guessed, I’m an introvert. Don’t hide your astonishment folks! Not all introverts are the same though. No, no boxes for us. We all are our own person and come in various shapes, sounds and colors. We’re mysterious like that. It’s like that colossal box of crayons your teacher had in the…
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If I’m blessed enough to get a lunch break (some days I’m too busy to even leave my desk), I normally take my lunch break in my car. What? That’s weird? I have this totally normal habit of sitting in my car with the seat perfectly reclined, the car that I’ve oh so carefully chosen to…
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I need a good frolic. When’s the last time you had a good one? I used to frolic quite often. Lately, not so much. Is it the fear of judgement? Is it the fear of injury? (Yeah, that’s happened). Or could it be you’re too busy to even realize you haven’t frolicked lately? (That last…
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