This week I hosted a screening of a short film I co-wrote about infertility, IVF and the impact it has on mental health. The film was following by a very frank and open discussion by the film's subject, my good friend Orla, and it was so cathartic to hear the subject of mental health and shame about the failure of your body being discussed openly. I think when it comes to this particular issue, the more open we are about feelings of failure as women, about the quiet, private suffering and suspended grief it can bring, the better we can all learn to let go of related shame and guilt and despair, and know that there are others, both men and women going through this.

I have tried to grow a vegetable garden many times, with very little success. This Spring/Summer, as part of our Summer of You in the Virtual Development Network, I challenged myself to try yet again and voila! Success! In a big way - we have been eating tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers out of our garden for months now -- and still going! We even grew our own pumpkins for the front porch. This will now be a tradition for my husband and I.

I love observing nature and the beauty of it while I'm walking. I also am thoroughly enjoying walking with my husband, taking that "we time" for us to talk about our days and plan our future.

One of the many home projects currently on my list which include new windows in bedrooms, new weatherstripping, new organizational system in garage, among other things.

I have carpool arranged for my son's school pick up that is a 30-40 min traffic drive. Often we cant car pool with people since we have 3 kids with car seats. So being able to accomplish at least one is great. Often when I'm going to costco or other stores I will call my friend in neighborhood or my parent if they need anything saving them a driving trip. basically a carpool ;)

Don't litter and pick up any trash we see around as we walk on the beaches or river trails. Don't pour chemicals into the street or gutters. Don't use winterizing chemicals on sidewalks.

Another benefit of smaller portions is filling up over time and Losing weight!