Menopause came calling in November 2018. That is, I had my last period in October 2018 and following it, started the clock on my menopause year though I didn’t realize it until about three months on. I knew I’d missed by periods because I’d used an app, though I’d now recommend using a notebook especially if you live in the USA. That information isn’t only … Continue reading When menopause came calling – an off-the-cuff joint.
When I left home for university at nineteen, packed among my possessions was a journal. “A woman’s notebook, being a blank book with quotes by women” would become my first official diary, though not my last. If I’d been choosing one myself, I’d have picked something different: this one had half-size pages and a glued binding. I like spiral notebooks that don’t cause hand cramps … Continue reading A woman’s notebook: journalling and some very dramatic poetry.
Self-care is a skill. If you’re lucky, your parents teach you everything you need to know. If you’re unlucky or over forty, it’s less innate and requires more education and practice. I was bad at self-care for a long time. It was the eating disorder and the raging mental illness. My energies were otherwise occupied. Wrinkle-treatments weren’t on my radar. I regret that now. Some … Continue reading Self-care is an evolving art.
I tend to leak tears when I’m angry, upset, or frustrated: it’s one of the most annoying things about being female. It even trumps the random black hairs that show up on my chin. [i] There you are, making a point, presenting a rebuttal, or holding your space when suddenly, your voice cracks. You sniff because your nose has started to run. You realize tears … Continue reading Sneaky science: tears and congestion.
From Famine to Feast. 