Author: Kathy Husser (Tempe)

Kathy Husser is a Tempe librarian and educator who enjoys travel and learning about our global cultures. With post pandemic traveling open up more and more, Kathy wants to share resources for family friendly getaways and fun trips to meet your vacation needs. She enjoys gardening, the outdoors and cooking too!

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Let Things Go

"Be wary of Negative People..."

I had to share the latest book I read, “How to Let Things Go, 99 Tips…” by Shunmyo Mansuno. Simple and valuable nuggets I found helpful to get us through challenging and good times.

Character

The way you handle difficult people show a great deal about your character and value system. Do you let the little things get to you or worry a lot? If you tend to focus on what “can go wrong,” vs. allowing life to happen, listen up.  Mansuno, who is also a Buddhist Monk, provides reminders on “…relinquishing anxiety, impatience, and anger.”

You are in control of your own emotions and the reaction to personal situations, nothing else. If worry about every scenario that “could happen,” you’re wasting valuable energy.

Let life happen, but be smart about it. Suggestions include, “moderating your expectations.”  Not everything will go your way in life. So be humble, and let me say that again, just be humble.

Social Media

What you see on social media is the 2%-5% of the “great” that is happening in people’s lives. The author suggests that people knowing about 50% (or even 30%) is a healthy way to live.  Keep your life private for peace of mind.

We don’t need to know everything, and it keeps the pressure off of you to be “picture perfect.”  Everyone has something they are dealing with, that we don’t know about it.  And that’s just fine, and it’s a healthy way to go through life.

Accountability

Finally, do what you’ll say you are going to do.  “Don’t push things off until tomorrow,” we’re reminded.  You can tell a person’s true intentions by what “they do” not what they say. So just do it, and live your life with integrity and accountability.

That also goes for taking responsibility when things don’t work out, or you make a mistake. We learn more from our mistakes than we do from our successes, always.

And surrounding yourself with people that lift you up and support you will help you all through life.  As the authors reminds us, “Be wary of negative people.”  Positivity and kindness will be habits for life to help during the bad times and nurture you in good times.

So, what is your “go to” to help others navigate this changing world?

For more living well, tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Expectations for 2025

Setting Expectations for 2025

Photo by No Revisions on Unsplash

With 2025 and a new year in front of us, we tend to reflect on past achievements, setbacks, and experiences. The transition from one year to the next presents a unique opportunity to redefine priorities and set clear expectations for the year ahead. In 2025, establishing personal and professional goals with concrete expectations can have a profound impact on success, motivation, and overall well-being.

Creating Clarity and Direction

Setting expectations provides a sense of clarity. Without a clear sense of where we want to go, it’s easy to become distracted or overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. In a fast-paced world where new opportunities and challenges arise constantly, defining what you expect from yourself and the year ahead helps to maintain focus. This clarity allows you to direct your energy toward meaningful endeavors rather than being swayed by distractions.

Accountability

When you set expectations for the year, you also build in a system of accountability. Expectations function as a form of self-contract, a commitment you make to yourself about what you aim to achieve. Whether your goals are related to career advancement, personal growth, or wellness, establishing these goals helps keep you accountable. Regularly checking in with these expectations can also serve as a powerful motivator, prompting you to reassess and adjust. Whether it’s a financial goal or career-focused achievement, keep re-assessing your progress.

Managing Stress and Burnout

Photo by Chelsea Gates on Unsplash

In a world that often prioritizes constant productivity, it’s easy to push yourself to extremes. However, unrealistic expectations can lead to stress and burnout. Setting balanced expectations that account for both ambition and personal well-being is crucial. For 2025, it’s important to not only set high aspirations but also to be mindful of your limits. This balanced approach helps maintain both mental and physical health, allowing you to avoid burnout and approach your goals sustainably.

Enhancing Personal Growth

Setting expectations is also a pathway to personal development. By clearly defining what you want to achieve, you give yourself the chance to grow in specific areas. Whether it’s developing a new skill, improving relationships, or achieving financial goals, having expectations pushes you out of your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of intentional effort and persistence. Both of these are supported by your well-defined expectations.

2025 offers a fresh start, and setting expectations is a powerful way to ensure that the year is filled with purpose, direction, and growth. By taking the time to reflect on your goals, you can create a roadmap for success that keeps you accountable and balanced throughout the year.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Selfcare for 2025

Sunflower from my garden this spring.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

As 2025 begins, it’s an ideal time for selfceare that will help you lead a healthier, more balanced life. Rather than making drastic changes that might be hard to sustain, focus on small habits that can make a big impact over time. Here are some tips to start the new year off right with a focus on health and personal growth.

Prioritize Your Health

Good health is the foundation for a successful year. Begin by evaluating your current habits and identifying areas for improvement. Simple changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, and getting enough sleep can improve your well-being. Regular exercise is also essential; it doesn’t have to be intense. Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming can help keep you active while also being enjoyable and stress-free.

Engage in Stress-Free Activities

Managing stress is key to maintaining both mental and physical health. Start by incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath. These simple habits can help reduce stressand promote a sense of calm.

Additionally, consider hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, have some fun!  These activities provide a creative outlet and a break from the pressures of daily life. Spending time in nature is another great way to de-stress. Studies have shown that even a short walk in a park can reduce anxiety and boost your mood.

Focus on Personal Growth

The new year is a great time to set goals for personal development. Start by reflecting on the past year and identifying areas where you’d like to grow. This could be learning a new skill, improving your time management, or working on your emotional intelligence. Setting realistic, achievable goals is important; break them down into smaller steps to make them more manageable.

Reading is another powerful tool for personal growth. Choose books that inspire you, challenge your thinking, or teach you something new. Journaling is also a valuable practice.  Writing down your thoughts, goals, and reflections can help clarify your intentions and track your progress throughout the year.

Starting the new year off right doesn’t mean making drastic changes overnight. By focusing on your health, engaging in stress-free activities, and setting achievable goals for personal growth, you can create a foundation for a happier, healthier year ahead. Remember, progress is made through consistent, small steps, so be kind to yourself and enjoy the journey.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Holiday Recipes

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Holiday recipes will not be the same as the “recipes” I shared for the Thanksgiving holiday. These recipes are how to celebrate the holidays to bring you joy this year and next. Here are a few ideas to make this holiday season shine!

Work Reflection

Reflecting on the past year during this time brings great comfort and clarification of the past 11 to 12 months.  What work goals did you achieve?  What new goals for your career will you begin?  Think about the changes in your job and home life you had this year; was it beneficial? Out of your control?  This is the time to set your path on what you’ll be focusing on for 2025 in your career.

Relationships

Relationships, like life, are always changing. What relationships would you like to nurture next year or pull away from?  As you grow, your relationships will change with you as your boundaries grow and are defined.

When I was a mom with your kids, my circle of friends were other moms from our play group. As my children grew, my friendships changed too. Work relationships and my friends from the gym become my focus, as my kids gained their own circle of friends. Getting out there making new friends feels good and is healthy.

Health

Health and wellness are always important, so a recipe for success always starts with your self-care first.  Look at your nutrition, physical exercise, and mindset to create a path to wellness. Stress can be the biggest obstacle to positive mental and physical fitness. Your mind can make or break you, so meditation and taking time for yourself is important for a healthy outlook. A 15- minute walk after dinner or before you set off for work in the morning helps clear your mind.

There is no tried and true path for a happy life, but there are “recipes” to help you learn, grow, and thrive every year. Taking this time during the holidays to re-evaluate habits in your life that need focus will help.  Life is about change, and I hope yours is positive and productive.

For more living well, tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Visiting Banff

Yellowstone Lake - Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

Visiting Banff

Banff and Lake Louise in Canada are breathtaking destinations located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. These scenic spots offer unparalleled beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural experiences. If you only have a few days, here are reasons to plan your travel to Banff today.

Stunning Natural Scenery

Banff National Park is home to majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. The stunning scenery draws visitors year-round even in winter. Lake Louise is famous for its turquoise waters, framed by towering peaks. During the warmer months, the vibrant color of the lake is a mesmerizing turquoise blue.

Outdoor Activities

There are plenty of outdoor activities in Banff especially in winter. Hiking is one of the most popular and easiest adventures in the National Park. The region offers trails for every experience level. The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is a must-do, providing amazing views along the way. For a challenge, take on the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, leading to impressive glacier views. Always check weather conditions before heading out, and let people know where you’ll be hiking.

Adventure in Every Season

Banff and Lake Louise are equally magical in winter. Skiing and snowboarding are major attractions. Ski enthusiasts flock to the Lake Louise Ski Resort, one of the largest in North America. Banff Sunshine Village is another popular spot, known for its long ski season and diverse terrain. Ice skating on Lake Louise is a magical experience, especially surrounded by the snowy mountains.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife is abundant in the Banff area. Elk, deer, and mountain goats are often spotted near hiking trails. Keep a safe distance from these creatures. The chance of seeing bears is higher in the spring and summer months. Guided tours offer safe wildlife viewing while exploring the area’s natural beauty. Be careful and on guard, as you are in the animal’s nature terrain.  Don’t be a news headline, and always be aware of your surroundings while hiking or scouting for birds and animals.

Exploring the Town

Banff is a charming hub filled with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Stroll along Banff Avenue, enjoying local cuisine and culture. Don’t miss the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where you can relax in warm mineral-rich water while admiring mountain views. The beauty of Banff’s city life and outdoor activities provides you endless options to enjoy your holiday.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is the crown jewel of Banff National Park. The Fairmont Château Lake Louise sits on its shores, offering luxury accommodations. Paddle boarding and canoeing on the lake are popular in summer. In the winter, the lake transforms into a frozen wonderland for ice skating.

Visiting Banff and Lake Louise offers an unforgettable experience. Whether hiking, skiing, or soaking in natural beauty, these Canadian destinations provide adventure and tranquility. With stunning landscapes and year-round activities, it’s a must-visit location for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

For more travel inspiration check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Thanksgiving Recipes

Sunflower from my garden this spring.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

Thanksgiving is a time to come together as a family whether with loved ones or friends to celebrate. What better way to bring people together than a shared meal on a special day.  Here are some of my favorite recipes for a traditional Thanksgiving you might like to make and share.

GRANDMA THELMA’S CORNBREAD STUFFING

I like turkey, but I love the Grandma Thelma’s Southern Cornbread Stuffing.  This “dressing” goes along with my roasted wing and freezing very well too.

  • 1/2- pound butter – divided
  • 1 Tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 ½cups chopped celery
  • 9cups prepared day old cornbread (double this recipe or use 4 boxes of Jiffy Mix)
  • 4 slices of day-old bread, (OR bagels, buns, whatever you have on hand)
  • 1 Tablespoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 2eggs, beaten
  • 2cups chicken stock – divided
  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Butter one 2- quart casserole dish.
  2. In a sauté pan, cook onion powder and celery in 4 Tablespoons of butter until soft and add 1 cup of stock. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooled celery mixture, cornbread crumbled, and bread torn into bite size pieces, poultry seasoning, eggs, pecans, cranberries, and remaining cup of chicken stock. Mix well and add to buttered casserole dish. (Mixture will be “wet” when placed in dish to bake.)
  4. Dot top of stuffing mixture with remaining butter (about ¼ pound.)
  5. Bake for 1 hour at 325 degrees F or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F and edges are golden brown.

Serve with turkey, pork chops, or BBQ chicken! Freezes up to 2 months wrapped tightly in foil.

I feel every Thanksgiving needs carbs with turkey dinner. But some folks like other Thanksgiving traditions at their gathering. But one if for sure, pie is a universal dessert which makes everyone happy.

PIES

For your favorite dessert make a homemade pumpkin pie or even better a pumpkin cheesecake (for the calcium.)

KATHY’S PUMPKIN PIE

  • 1 (9 or 10 inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust
  • 1cup white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 large eggs – beaten
  • 1 (15 ounce) can LIBBY’S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

  • Combine sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs lightly in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk. Pour into pie shell.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue to bake until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, 40 to 55 more minutes. Remove from the oven and set on a wire rack to cool to room temperature.
  • Serve cooled pie immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. (Do not freeze as this will cause the crust to separate from the filling.)

Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and restful holiday.  Bon Appetit!

For more holiday inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Career Transitions

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Transitioning in your career can be both exciting and scary. Whether you’re seeking new challenges, better opportunities, or pursuing a passion, shifting careers requires thoughtful planning and strategic actions. From gaining the necessary education to building a strong network, here’s how to successfully navigate a career change.

Education and Skill Development

Education is often the first step in a career transition, especially if you’re moving into a completely new field. Start by assessing the skills you already have and identifying the gaps you need to fill. Research the skills required for your desired career and consider enrolling in relevant courses, certifications, or even degree programs. Online learning platforms offer flexibility, allowing you to upskill while maintaining your current job.

In some cases, you might not need formal education but rather specialized training or workshops that offer practical, hands-on experience. Look for opportunities to gain experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time work in your new field. This not only enhances your resume but also gives you a taste of what the job entails, helping you determine if it’s the right fit.

 Networking

Networking is crucial when transitioning careers. Building relationships with professionals in your target industry can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised. Start by attending industry events, seminars, and webinars where you can meet and learn from others in the field. LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for networking. You need to connect with individuals in your desired industry, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to establish yourself. It’s scary at first, but take it from me you meet so many good people via LinkedIn.

Informational interviews are another valuable resource. Reach out to professionals in your target industry to learn more about their career paths, challenges, and the skills required. These conversations can provide insights and guidance that are invaluable during a career transition.

Embracing a Total Career Change

A complete career change can be intimidating, but with careful planning, it’s achievable. Start by doing a self-assessment to understand your motivations for the change. Identify what you’re passionate about, what skills you excel in, and how these can be applied to a new field. This self-awareness is crucial in making informed decisions about your next steps.

Once you’ve identified your new career path, begin laying the groundwork. Update your resume to highlight transferable skills and any relevant experience. Consider creating a portfolio that showcases your work, particularly if you’re moving into a creative or technical field. Tailor your cover letters and applications to reflect your enthusiasm for the new field and your readiness to contribute.

Taking the Leap

Finally, transitioning in your career requires courage and resilience. It’s important to set realistic expectations and be prepared for challenges along the way. Consider taking small steps towards your goal, such as starting in a related role before fully transitioning, to ease the process.

Remember, career transitions are a journey. By investing in education, expanding your network, and embracing change, you can successfully navigate the path to a new career. Keep an open mind, stay patient, and trust in your ability to adapt and grow.  You’ve got this!

For more career tips check my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Career Wisdom

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

As you progress in your career you pick up morsels of wisdom. Recently I found a post by a former journalist and leader that I enjoyed reading.  Here are few “bite-size” morsels to help you navigate your career.

Harvey Mackay is a self-made business person and wise mentor sharing his experience.

For example, he was quoted, “Don’t just mark time; use time to make your mark.” I liken Harvey’s wisdom to that of James Clear’s career advice.  Clear is known for his best-selling book, “Atomic Habits” and routinely speaks at Fortune 500 gatherings and keynotes.

The times and mode of communication have changed. James’ profile on LinkedIn has thousands of followers. Harvey was syndicated in national newspapers for years. However, the common sense habits and “grit” needed to succeed, then and now, are the same.

Another bit of “Harvey wisdom,” reads like something out of Clear’s current playbook. “Technology should improve your life, not become your life.”  Compared to James Clear’s recent quote:

 “Simple ways to have a peaceful moment:

-Close your eyes and just breathe for two minutes.

-Leave your phone in another room for an hour…”

So, my point is wisdom comes in all forms and changes slightly over time. But really, your experiences shape the person you want to be and will become. Kindness, consistency, and putting the work in will result in rewards.  Rewards of goals achieved, dreams realized, and what success looks like for you.

Life is full of mishaps, fun, and opportunities. Be ready for what comes your way. As Harvey stated, “How people play the game shows something of their character. How they lose shows all of it.”  Food for thought…

For more career advice check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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It’s Not You

Yellowstone Lake - Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

After reading Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s new book, “It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People,” I had to share. This book is life affirming if you need to understand why “bad things” happen to you and motivators of narcissists. Dr. Durvasula also provides extensive strategies for healing and dealing with these highly manipulative and vengeful people.

Who Are They? 

We don’t know why people act the way they do to hurt others. It’s a diagnosed personality disorder that is finally getting the attention it needs. The definition of a narcissistic goes beyond just wanting their way all the time or being powerful.  It’s about people you have in your life, that abuse and shift blame by gaslighting, manipulating, and lying without remorse.

“Nothing is ever their responsibility or their fault because for a narcissistic person to take responsibility or accept blame means having to accept that they are accountable and imperfect.”

There are varying levels of abusive behaviors outlined, some classified as “malignant narcissists.”

They malign people publicly, or harm their reputations. They are highly manipulative, transactional, and judge everyone based on how useful they are – whether for power, profits, pleasure, or validation. In the simplest framing, the malignant narcissist is a bully, mean and menacing…”

You will recognize the examples used in your own family or workplace relationships. You will also understand how often these behaviors happen and go unchecked in society. The focus is never really on the narcissistic, but more on the actions of the victims being abused.  Almost as if the victim has something wrong with them, despite the facts not adding up from narcissist’s manipulated account.

How Does It Happen?

If you are in an abusive relationship, the obvious answer is to leave. But it’s not always that simple. Dr. Durvasula provides examples where it’s just not possible to leave a job, marriage or other important relationship despite abuse. The victim talks themselves out of it, thinks THEY are the reason that these “bad things” are happening.

Victims routinely believe the manufactured and false narratives about what is taking place due to other silent and compliant people.  It boils down to trust. When those closest to you break that trust and know what’s really going on but do nothing, that’s your truth.

“In other words, narcissistic people make you feel small so they can feel safe.” 

These narcissists get something from their victims while “love bombing,” charming them, and prioritizing the relationship.  When the victim realizes what is actually going on and sets boundaries and reveals the truth, all hell breaks loose.  

“Hell, really hath no fury like a narcissist scorned. Their vindictive behavior may range from spreading damaging workplace gossip” to other more harmful and life threating outcomes.

Be warned, that stalking and public humiliation of their victims is quite commonplace for these individuals. Their tactics escalate when their victims pull away or start understanding the truth about past events. 

How to Protect Yourself 

There are many strategies discussed in the book to combat DARVO, or the common methods narcissists use.  (That’s a very useful chapter.) You should also try to distance yourself spiritually or physically from your abuser(s.) If you must stay in a relationship for work or family reasons, sound strategies are provided. These will help you heal and learn to deal with these negative people. As the author states, you will be better informed the next time you come across these individuals. And you most definitely will!

The healing that takes place when you know you’re not the crazy one is incredible. Narcissist behaviors happen daily to so many of us, but now you have a voice…an authentic voice.

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Halloween 2024

Sunflower from my garden this spring.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

Halloween is just a few days away.  Planning the perfect costume that is safe, non-political, and easy to pull together can be a challenge in 2024 Fear not! Here are four suggestions that will spark your imagination for a memorable Halloween for all.

Classic Costumes

You can never go wrong with a simple ghost, zombie, or witch this Halloween. Even a retro T-shirt with a Halloween saying is an easy way to have fun and stay in the Halloween spirit.

Mythical Creatures

Embrace the magic of legends by dressing up as a mythical creature. From fairies and unicorns to dragons and mermaids, the options are endless. Tap into your imagination and create a costume that brings these creatures to life. You can use colorful fabrics, sparkly accessories, and face paint to enhance the fantastical elements.

Let your creativity soar as you craft wings for a fairy or design scales for a mermaid. These fun costumes are sure to inspire you to add your own creative touches. The popularity of these TV series are perfect for all ages.

Book Characters

Pay tribute to the beloved characters from your favorite books by bringing them to life this Halloween. Whether it’s Cinderella, Harry Potter, or the mischievous Cat in the Hat. These literary icons offer a world of possibilities for creative costumes.

Browse your local thrift stores or search your own closet for clothing items that resemble the characters’ signature styles. Add some key accessories, such as Cinderella’s shiny heels or Harry Potter’s round glasses, to complete the look. Not only will you celebrate your love for books, but you’ll inspire others to dive into the world of reading.

Taylor and Travis

Yes, our perfect couple is still very popular for Halloween this year. Why not mix-up the best of both football and music? Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift “look a likes” would make a perfect Halloween couple’s costume.  Athletics and pop music blend seamlessly and talk about easy costumes to gather. A Kansas City football jersey and some “Swiftie” swag and you are both set for Halloween!  You could also add those personal touches of hair color, beard, microphone, and #13 for effect.  Have fun this year with our most watched couple of 2024.

Choosing a safe, non-political, and easy-to-pull-together Halloween costume may seem like a challenge. But, these suggestions provide a perfect starting point. Whether you opt for a classic Halloween character, pop icons, or a beloved book character, the key is creativity people!

Remember, safety should always come first.  Also ensure your costume is comfortable, allows for easy movement, and doesn’t block your vision. And don’t forget to add your own personal flair and unique touches to make the costume truly yours.

As Halloween approaches, let your imagination run wild and create a costume that brings joy to those around you. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, attending a party, or simply celebrating at home, these ideas will help.

Keeping the focus on the fun and festive spirit of Halloween is the main point.  So, unleash your inner creative spirit, gather your materials, and get ready for a Halloween filled with magic!

Check out my website for more ideas: KathyHusserTempe.com