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What are you up to this weekend? I know I am behind schedule, but Eid Mubarak to all my brothers and sisters who celebrated yesterday. It was also the first day of spring, so I hope you have something good planned. After being the caretaker to my girls who were both diagnosed with influenza B, I got diagnosed yesterday with the same. Let’s just say, it has been rough and I am recovering. But in true Renata fashion, yesterday, before my visit to the urgent care, I drove up to Wilton, NY to pick up a beautiful ladder book shelf from Facebook marketplace. It was worth the trip, because look at this. Since I can’t do much this weekend, let’s recap some of the fun things I did over the week. I facilitated an art workshop at my internship. I was thrown in, but we made it work. My co-facilitator made some tanghulu desserts for our members along with some other amazing snacks. I went thrifting at my favorite thrift shop Captain’s Treasures and came across this amazing box of vintage National Geographic magazines, a childhood favorite. I got a quick glimpse of the mountains near the King Phillips Campground in Lake George. I had the sudden urge to go for a hike. Yesterday, when I still felt a bit well, I made a yummy batch of the Trader Joe’s Blueberry Muffins Mix . I have also made some major progress on my queen sized chenille blanket that is already a big hit with the girls. After I am done with this one, it will be theirs next. I hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend enjoying whatever brings you joy. (Ernest Porzi/Unsplash)

Hi! How is your week going? The weather has been amazing lately in the Capital Region, and I am happy to enjoy a little heat even though being hot isn’t my happy place. I’m grateful for rising serotonin levels and all that free vitamin D. This week has been great with the girls. As always, we enjoyed good food, being outdoors, beautiful art, and wonderful sister moments. We are in peak tulip season in my neck of the woods, so I enjoy watching them bloom. Fibromyalgia and Mental Health Awareness Month We are in the month that recognizes two causes near and dear to me. As someone who lives with fibromyalgia, I talk about the many ways that fibromyalgia affects my life and my mental health. Catch up on these stories on the blog that address these two important topics and the areas of life they affect. Career : How Substitute Teaching Became a Gift at a Difficult Time Parenting : 3 Most Valuable Lessons My Children and I Have Learned from My Chronic Illness and Parenting through Pain: Navigating Motherhood with Chronic Illness and Love Relationships : Chronic Illnesses: When Sticking to a Routine Gets Hard and Tolerable Unhappiness and Female Desire and Lina of “Three Women” Life : 5 Ways to Have More Mindful Interactions With People Who Have a Chronic Illness I really hope these stories serve as a great resource for you. Be sure to leave your thoughts and words of encouragement. Celebrating Motherhood Mother’s Day is coming up soon and what better time to revise an old post Motherhood as Ministry: A Sacred Calling . I show appreciation to the ones who have chosen to be childless, a decision that shows the highest form of self-awareness. As a mother, I wholeheartedly support any woman who decides to blaze her path without the added pressures of motherhood. Motherhood has such a major impact on all facets of life that it would be irresponsible to not consider the ramifications of such a life-altering decision. “ Whether you view motherhood as birthright, obligation or choice, in its most authentic form, motherhood is ministry .” Here are some of the ways that motherhood is ministry: Nurturing Hearts and Minds . As mothers, we tend to the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs of our children. We become their teacher and their source of love and guidance. The simple act of listening and comforting our children is ministry to their hearts and minds. It shapes them into compassionate, resilient, and thoughtful individuals. We may not always get it right, but focusing on doing better with every new day is how we can fulfill this role. Cultivating Values and Virtues . Mothers play a crucial role in instilling values such as honesty, kindness and empathy in their children. As we interact daily with our children, we model these virtues, guiding them to understand the importance of integrity, compassion, and respect for others. As we heal and protect our inner child, we will keep passing on these lessons learned. Creating a Safe Haven. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, our love and support offer a sense of security and belonging. A mom’s goal is to create a haven for her children. Moms also need support from their tribe and nothing feels better than when needs are communicated and everyone is up to speed. In the meantime, whether it's through a warm embrace, a listening ear, or a comforting presence, moms will continue to provide refuge, solace and strength. Embracing the Sacredness of Everyday Moments. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the sacredness of ordinary moments. Yet, in the eyes of a mother, even the most mundane tasks become sacred acts of love and service. Whether it's preparing a meal, tucking her children into bed, or sharing a laugh together, a mother recognizes the divine beauty in these simple gestures, knowing that they are building bonds that will last a lifetime. Growing Together in Faith. A mother guides her children on a journey of faith. Whether it's through bedtime prayers, family rituals, or conversations about life's big questions, a mother helps her children cultivate a sense of wonder and reverence for the world around them. Together, they explore the mysteries of life and deepen their understanding of their place in the universe. Money Saving Tips at Your Local Library If you’re not already on Threads , join the conversations happening. I am learning so much in this space. I came across a post from Two Sides of a Dime , about how you can maximize the use of your library card for significant savings of a little over $10,000 yearly. I love my local library and I already used it in so many ways including trips to the museum, but here are some other suggestions by Eduek . Audiobooks Museums Movies and music Coworking space Event space LinkedIn Learning Markerspace Toys and gaming consoles Videogames Gadgets and gear I would encourage getting in the comments, because people added more ways that Eduek did not mention. Let’s all save money together. Summer Camps Savings. I did one thing this week that is going to save my family almost $8000 in summer camp costs for my two girls. This isn’t a tip for everyone, but it can be greatly useful to a stay-at-home parent, or a parent with summer breaks who has the time and means to make use of this opportunity. It is called a work trade. Typically, a work trade is where volunteers offer their time and skills to work in exchange for free accommodation. In this situation, a work trade allows a parent to volunteer their skills and services to a summer program their child(ren) can attend for free. I initially sent an email briefly explaining my circumstances and requested a scholarship or a trade of my skills with an attached resume. As I mentioned, this isn’t for everyone, but a very useful and helpful option for those who can. With that said, have a fantastic weekend everyone. Take care of yourselves and each other.

For about two months, it seems like everyone around me, whether at work or home ahas been sick. First it was Strep and the girls are now recovering from influenza B. While at the urgent care with my younger daughter the doctor recommended Robitussin, but then said, “They’ve found that straight honey works just the same.” Of course it does. It’s a staple for most home remedies for colds. As much as we all enjoyed the spoonful of honey, we all still have a lingering cough. It’s obvious that honey alone isn’t working, so now I feel it’s time to bring out the strong stuff. So rather than talking in cough English (like my daughter calls it when we all cough at the same time), I will be making a large portion of the lemon, ginger, turmeric and honey tea of my childhood. The potion that coughs hate to see coming is here and I am happily sipping. I’m so ready to get back to my regular self. What are your home remedies for a cold or the flu?

I want to reshare a post that remains relevant, especially during this time of year. May you always remember the meaning of this season. The holidays are fast approaching, and the season of giving is in full swing. Nothing evokes winter quite like the crisp chill in the air, cozy nights filled with classic Thanksgiving and Christmas movies, and the endless baking adventures happening in my kitchen. Add in a steaming mug of peppermint hot cocoa, and I’m in my happy place. The pinnacle of it all is when we begin decorating for Christmas —not long after Halloween, though the tree doesn’t go up until after Thanksgiving. I look forward to the celebrations that capture the essence of the season in small and meaningful ways. All these traditions bring a sense of warmth and belonging. There’s truly nothing like the joy of the holidays, but it makes me wonder: how can we extend these sentiments throughout the year? The Shift in Holiday Spirit Although this season is traditionally celebrated as a time of selfless giving and compassion, the cultural tone has noticeably shifted over the years. What was once rooted in acts of kindness and communal spirit now often feels reduced to a transactional ritual. The deeper meaning of connection, generosity of heart, and community can easily get lost in the noise. While gift-giving tends to peak during this time, it’s worth pausing to reflect on why we give, not just during Christmas, but as an ongoing expression of care throughout the year. The Essence of Giving Giving is more than a physical exchange; it is a mental, emotional, social, and spiritual offering. Whether it’s a tangible item or something as simple as shared time and presence, the heart of giving lies in thoughtfulness, love, and intentional connection. This is what makes the act of giving so powerful and enduring. To truly embrace its spirit, here are three core aspects of authentic giving that empower us all—beyond the holidays and into everyday life: Give Selflessly, Without an Agenda All you have to do is go on an app to see people publicize acts of kindness. So many times, I question whether it is performative or truly from a place of genuine concern. We need to remember that true generosity comes from a place of sincerity, not self-interest. The focus shouldn't just be on the act itself, but on how it is received and the impact it has. When giving becomes about optics or personal gain, it loses its essence and becomes a mere transaction. Authentic giving builds bridges of compassion and connection within a community—it should never come with strings attached. Give Without Expecting Anything in Return Real giving isn't about reciprocity; it’s about responsibility—social, communal, and human. Those with more have the privilege to uplift those with less, whether or not the gesture is ever repaid. In some cultures, there isn’t even a word for “thank you” because generosity is so ingrained—it’s simply a way of life. Growing up in a culture where kindness, sharing, and bartering are part of daily existence, I’ve come to understand that giving is the foundation of community. It is not a favor, but a shared understanding of support. See Giving as Planting a Seed Every act of giving is a seed planted, one that may bloom into a connection, trust, or a deeper relationship. Whether you're offering your time, attention, or even a simple gift, you’re creating space for something meaningful to grow . Often, it’s not the object or gesture itself, but the intention behind it that resonates. Giving is a way of saying, I see you, you matter, and that kind of energy has the power to echo far beyond the moment. Cultivating a Mindset of Generosity By keeping these three elements in mind, the art of giving becomes easier. At various points in life, we are all both givers and receivers, making it essential to adopt principles that nurture a mindset of generosity as a shared social responsibility, not just a kind gesture. While this may sound idealistic, consistently practicing these values can offer deeper insight into the true purpose of giving. The Joy of Connection There is joy to be found in giving—not in the reward, but in the connection it creates and the humanity it honors. It’s about those little moments when you see someone’s face light up because of a simple act of kindness. It’s in the laughter shared over a cup of coffee with a friend who needed to talk. It’s in the warmth of a hug given freely, with no expectation of anything in return. Embracing the Spirit Year-Round So, as we dive deeper into this holiday season, let’s make a pact. Let’s carry the spirit of giving beyond December. Let’s find ways to sprinkle kindness throughout our days, whether it’s through a compliment, a helping hand, or simply being present for someone who needs it. Let’s romanticize the mundane by finding joy in the little things. Because, at the end of the day, it’s those small acts of kindness that weave the fabric of our communities together. And who knows? You might just inspire someone else to do the same. Let’s make every day a little brighter, not just during the holidays, but all year long. After all, the world could always use a bit more love and kindness.

What are you up to this weekend? We signed up for a community based art event that I am excited about. One kid is hesitant to attend, but unfortunately, there isn’t a choice, so we are all heading out. I will also be working on a crochet wearable. I hope you have a great time this weekend. With Threads becoming my best social media spot, I want to leave you with a few awesome things I saw there. I felt this in my heart and soul. To raise awareness. To educate. To inspire. Until next time.

What are you looking forward to wearing as the weather warms up? I’m loving a selection of denim that I snagged over the Christmas holidays. Levi’s has still got it, and have now become my go to brand for great fitting jeans. Here are three of my favorite pairs that I plan on wearing into the ground. Let’s start with the cinch barrel jeans . I love the highly debated barrel cut for its relaxed look and the snaps on the waistline creates a cinch for the curvy girls like me who want to avoid the gap in the back (if you know what I mean). I currently pair it with older Aura Chelsea pull-on boot from Pajar Canada , or my new balance sneakers for a more comfy feel. I feel like I have been transported to the 1970s in this cinched baggy denim that gives more of a straight leg, high waisted fit. I throw on a sleeveless crew neck shirt and it will be perfect for a day or night out. The ribcage bell western jean has become my absolute favorite. It feels so effortless and can be paired with just about anything to dress it up or down. Even without the cinch, it is a perfect fit. (Photos from Levi’s official site) What about you? What denim styles are you into right now? (The views expressed here are my own. I receive no compensation from this review.)

Living in the Capital District of NY is such an amazing feeling. As a long time resident of NYC, you would think that moving to Upstate New York would involve some degree of culture shock, but it has been quite the opposite. It really brings joy to be surrounded by this level of beauty. My new community is where nature is woven into the urban fabric and creates a truly harmonious balance. It still amazes me how I can go from city to rural in less than thirty minutes. I simply love it here. For that reason, I am always looking for new places to visit. Last year on a whim, I decided to explore Peebles Island State Park in Cohoes NY. Peebles Island State Park is a 190-acre state park located at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson rivers in New York. I walked in by way of the Cohoes entry on Delaware Avenue Railroad Drive into what felt like a sanctuary. The island  boasts many amenities that include hiking, walking trails, fishing, designated picnic areas, parking and lighthouse visits/tours among others. The landscape is picturesque all year round, especially in the summertime. As much as there is to explore on Peebles Island, there is more to see at the north exit, where you enter into the historic town of Waterford in Saratoga County. Summer is the highlight and best time of year to explore this waterfront town. There is a weekly farmer’s market, the Waterford Tugboat Roundup, boat rides, kayaking and many more activities. The Waterford Welcome Center Waterford Waterfront For me, the real highlight was seeing the Erie Canal Lock at work. Waterford boasts the Erie Canal Lock E-2, part of a system of connecting waterways , and one of 57 locks in the New York’s canal system that has been active since 1825. It reflects a symbiotic relationship between nature and science that will leave you in awe. It is a masterful remnant of the brilliance of the minds of the past and a superb look into how resourceful human beings can be. It was worth seeing and I highly recommend visiting. Erie Canal Lock E-2 Watching Erie Canal Lock E-2 at work Since then, my family and I make several visits to Peeble Island State Park throughout the year. We love it there. What do you enjoy most about this state park? Photos: Top photo from New York State Park, Gallery from left to right: Overlook Point on Peebles Island State Park, Scenic View at Overlook Point, Second Street Bridge, Walking path along Second Street Bridge that leads to Waterford NY

There’s a certain magic in doing something for no reason other than… well, you felt like it. Not because it’ll make you money. Not because it’s going on Instagram. Not because you’re secretly auditioning for a new career. Just because you want to. I recently did just that while at The Art Center of the Capital Region. I have been working on getting back into watercolor painting, and I was so excited when I was placed to assist an instructor teaching a watercolor class. As she laid out they would be working on —mushrooms— I got excited and decided to join them and create a project. Let’s just say, I surprised myself. I still got my mojo, as you can see, even after over a decade. That’s the beauty of creativity without an end goal: it’s freedom disguised as watercolor paint. And the best part? You might learn more about yourself with hands and clothes coated with paint than you ever would from another “Top 10 Habits of Highly Productive People” article. Being authentically creative can take on a nurturing and healing element. I’m not talking about the kind that’s all hustle and portfolio, but the kind that’s about exploration , joy , and maybe accidentally knitting a scarf that looks suspiciously like a long sock. Photos of all my just because activities from left to right: my younger daughter’s embroidery planet apron, wearable embroidery art for my older daughter, an acrylic painting for their bathroom, a hoop for my daughter’s teacher for the end of the school year, a rice bowl recipe without a plan, our family visit to an environmental center with the most beautiful glass bottles (for my love of photography), created my own orange cake recipe, decorated their wall with hearts, and taking a break for some well-deserved ice cream. Why “Pointless” Creativity is Actually the Point . We have been so conditioned to believe that everything needs a purpose. If you pick up a hobby and you become great at it, the next question is, “ So, are you going to sell them on Etsy? ” Heaven forbid you just enjoy making lopsided mugs without trying to build a ceramic empire. When we create without a destination , we free ourselves from the pressure of perfection. There’s no “wrong” way to watercolor your cat wearing a crown, though your cat might disagree. The absence of a clear “goal” means the process is the reward . It’s the mental equivalent of a hammock nap, and if you’ve had one, you know what I’m talking about. All my embroidery projects had no plan. They all took a mind of their own, but what I did do was take it one step at a time and trust that the outcome will be what is supposed to be. Creativity as Self and Community Care in Disguise. You know those self-care checklists that always include things like “drink more water” and “get eight hours of sleep”? Shoutout to whoever wrote those. You’re correct, but also, who needs a micro managing list. Let’s add “make something completely ridiculous” to the list. Whether you’re creating alone, or with a group, engaging in creative activities gives your brain a vacation, so you stop doomscrolling for twenty blessed minutes. It helps you express what words can’t, so that you can take a break from journaling about that horrible date you had several nights ago. You also build resilience, because you know that much like painting, if you mess something up, great, that’s the spirit. You choose to go with the flow, or fix it. It also reminds you you’re allowed to play, even if you pay taxes now. So that drumming class you joined is far more than developing skills, but also an exchange of culture, history and laying our burdens at the alter. We reserve the right to create individually and/or in community because they play a major role in care. Learning About Yourself Along the Way . When you create for the sake of creating, little truths sneak up on you. Maybe you realize you have the patience of a saint when painting miniature birdhouses. Or maybe you realize… nope. Patience is not your brand. That’s useful to know, too. Sometimes your art will surprise you. A casual collage turns into a visual love letter. A silly short story makes you notice how much you value independence. The act of making things works like a mirror: it reflects bits of you back that you didn’t even know were there. And here’s the real kicker — there’s no pressure to “be good” at it. Your macaroni portrait of your favorite celebrity or family member doesn’t have to be museum-worthy to tell you something about yourself. Some of my favorite quotes about art and life Create for Fun (Without Overthinking It). If your inner critic is already shouting “But I’m not creative!” let’s pause. Creativity isn’t about having a magical talent gene; it’s about doing things in a way that’s uniquely yours. That could mean painting murals or arranging your snack plate like a still life. The trick is to choose something you want to do, not something you think you “should” do. If you hate scrapbooking, don’t start scrapbooking. This isn’t gym class. Making Time for It (Even When Life’s Full) . “But I don’t have time to be creative!” you cry, possibly while scrolling TikTok for the fourth time today. Friend, you do have time. Ten minutes before bed. While your pasta water boils. On your lunch break in the car. Saturday mornings before the house wakes up. Tiny doses count. You don’t need a full studio or four uninterrupted hours. You just need a moment to let your brain wander off the path and pick wildflowers. Give Yourself Permission to Make Ugly Stuff. Here’s your official hall pass: you are 100% allowed to make things that are ugly, weird, unfinished, or confusing to everyone except you. That’s actually the fun part. When we create purely for our own enjoyment, we give ourselves space to breathe, to be, and to discover pieces of ourselves we didn’t know were waiting. The world doesn’t need to understand it. You don’t even have to understand it. Let your creativity be a private little rebellion against the idea that everything must be productive. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the final product. It’s about what happens inside you while you’re making it, and the fact that, for a little while, you got to play. Have you made something recently that you would like to share? Photo of mushroom created by Renata Poleon/August 11, 2025

If you're craving a satisfying meal that combines crispy fried chicken with fresh greens, this fried chicken salad is the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dish. Fried Chicken Salad You’ll need 2 lbs boneless chicken 1 packet sazon seasoning 1/4-1/2 cup all-purpose flour/gluten free flour 1/4 cup milk pickles (sliced or whole, as preferred) 1 head of lettuce (romaine or iceberg) Trader Joe’s vegan salad dressing Start by washing the chicken and patting it dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix the sazon seasoning with the milk. Soak the chicken pieces in this mixture for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. In a separate bowl, place the flour. you can also season the flour lightly with a small amount of sazon Remove the chicken from the milk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and then dredge each piece in flour until fully coated. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces.Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let them drain on paper towels. While the chicken is cooling, wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the lettuce on a large serving plate or bowl. Add sliced pickles on top of the lettuce for a tangy crunch. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips and place it on top of the bed of lettuce. Drizzle Trader Joe’s vegan salad dressing over the salad to taste. The combination of crispy chicken, fresh lettuce, and zesty pickles, all topped with creamy vegan dressing, is sure to satisfy your taste buds! I happened to enjoy mine with a left over cheddar biscuit. Enjoy your homemade fried chicken salad!

Last weekend, my daughters and I spent an afternoon at the New York State Museum. On the surface, our plan was simple: visit the museum to see the gems and first peoples exhibit, but instead, we happened to be greeted by the Barbie Expo . I was immediately excited, even more excited than my daughters. I was flushed with memories of my few childhood Barbie dolls and what was a simple plan turned into a meaningful experience. As we approached the museum, through the glass entry, I could see the was Barbie car perched on a platform for display. My younger daughter headed straight to the car and took a seat. We then headed straight to the exhibit that features a priceless collection of over 300 artifacts from the 64-year history of Barbie. Barbie, after all, isn’t just a doll—it’s an icon, a cultural touchstone, and for them, a figure of endless imagination. First impression of a world in pink . For me, Barbie represents something else entirely: nostalgia, creativity, and the quiet realization that time keeps moving forward, even as some things remain familiar. It immediately drew me in with its vibrant displays and thoughtful presentation. Behind glass cases stood dolls from various eras, each styled meticulously and telling a story beyond plastic and fabric. The sparkly gowns, dramatic hairstyles, and Barbies posed as doctors, athletes, artists, and astronauts. Every few steps brought a new discovery. I loved watching their excitement unfold, seeing how something as simple as a doll could spark so much joy and curiosity. Nostalgia meets the present. While we absorbed in the magic of it all, I found myself drifting into memories of my own childhood. I remembered sitting on the floor for hours, inventing elaborate storylines for my Barbies and crafting clothes made from the scraps of my grandmother’s fabric. Seeing vintage Barbies from earlier decades felt like flipping through an old photo album, each doll reflecting a different era and a different version of girlhood. Barbie had changed over time, but the essence remained the same. More than fashion and fun. What impressed me most about the Barbie Expo was how thoughtfully it was curated. This wasn’t simply a collection of dolls dressed in beautiful clothes; it was a reflection of social change and evolving ideas about what girls and womencan be. The exhibit showcased Barbies in a wide range of professions, from science and medicine to sports and the arts. There were dolls representing different cultures, styles, and identities, quietly reinforcing the idea that there is no single way to be. These displays opened the door to natural conversations with my daughters. We talked about why it’s important to see yourself represented in the world around you. It was just honest, organic dialogue sparked by what we were seeing together. The Barbie Expo at the New York State Museum gave us more than an afternoon of entertainment. It gave us conversation and connection. Sometimes, they come from wandering through a museum, surrounded by pink displays, holding your children’s hands as they discover the world and themselves. Those are the moments that linger.