Stay Cool and Have Fun: Your Guide to Beating the Alabama Heat This Summer
Summer in Alabama isn’t for the faint of heart. The sun doesn’t just shine — it sizzles. Humidity wraps around you like a hot, wet blanket. And yet, summer can still be one of the most enjoyable times of the year — if we know...
Staying Close to Long-Distance Grandchildren
The miles may separate you, but they don’t have to keep you apart. Staying close to long-distance grandchildren takes creativity, consistency, and a little effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. Whether they live a few states away, across the country, or around the world, building...
Hot and Bothered
Ah, June—the month where summer shows up like an uninvited guest, refusing to leave and making itself very comfortable. We fantasize about sunny days, ice-cold lemonade, and perfectly Instagrammable picnics. What we get is a sweat-soaked mess, mosquito attacks, and an electric bill that makes...
Cover Profile: Brenda DePlanche
Brenda’s passion for fitness runs deep, but it’s only part of what makes her story so inspiring. As the powerhouse behind The Workout Studio, she’s built more than a business—she’s created a thriving community centered on strength, support, and self-discovery. A former cheerleader, dancer, and...
Are You Thirsty?
In 1972, the U.S. Army taught me what it means to be thirsty. I was an eighteen-year-old member of “A-2-2! The best damned company at Fort Dix, New Jersey, Sir!” It was late July. Ninety degrees in the shade. A large water bag hung nearby....
Grumpy But Grateful: “What’s My Password Again?”
Ah, passwords. The digital version of keys—but worse, because you can’t just stick a spare under the mat. Every single website demands a password these days. Want to check your email? Password. Pay a bill? Password. Log into your grocery store account to save 30...
To Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
Photographing alligators in the wild isn’t difficult – if you know where to look. Sporting powerful jaws, fierce protruding teeth, penetrating eyes, and an intricate pattern of rugged scales, they cut quite a compelling image through a lens. Besides, it’s just plain cool to hang...
Pros and Cons of Retiring Somewhere Else and How to Manage Life If You Do
If you’re nearing retirement, you may be looking forward to the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in life. You will no longer have to dedicate your time and energy to a job or raising kids. For many retirees, this means a return to...
Caring For Your Aging Parent And Ways To Cope
When Lisa, age 57, first noticed that her mother seemed confused, she assumed it was typical behavior from an 80-year-old. She continued to take it in stride when her mother tried to make a phone call using the TV remote. Lisa became somewhat concerned when...
If Something Happens to You, Are Your Records Organized?
Are your records organized? If something were to happen to you, would it be easy for loved ones to take over your affairs or settle your estate? Would they know where to find all your necessary healthcare information, legal documents, passwords, and PINs? Would they...
Random Thoughts From BOOM Orleans
Greetings from the Big Easy! I’d never been to New Orleans until two years ago. I am writing this while enjoying my 20th visit! Speaking of 20, at the end of April, I completed my 20th year in Montgomery, so here’s my 20/20 report on...
Cover Profile: Cassandra Wheeler
Cassandra Wheeler’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Her deep connection to her roots has guided her path, from teaching in local schools to influencing education on a broader scale. Beyond her professional achievements, Cassandra’s unwavering faith has been a cornerstone in navigating...
Planning For Your Future (Part 1)
In planning for your financial and healthcare future, several issues must be considered. Start by analyzing your current situation and determining your goals for the future. Below are a few things to contemplate: Who are you planning for? Do you or individuals in your plan...
STUFF!
Spring! It’s America’s favorite season. Cool mornings. Warm days. Aside from a dozen or so tornado watches and warnings, what’s not to love? A poll by Home Depot found the top three spring-cleaning projects we’ve got planned are washing the windows, cleaning the grill, and...
Grumpy But Grateful: “Grocery Store Gymnastics”
The grocery store: a place where dreams of a quick, stress-free trip go to die. You walk in with a plan. A short list, a firm resolve, and just enough caffeine in your system to stay civil. “In and out in 15 minutes,” you say...