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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Springbreak 2025

Pink Coneflowers
Pink Coneflowers love a warmer climate.

Spring break is here for 2025. It’s an ideal time for solo travelers to embark on an adventure tailored to their own pace and interests. Whether you’re looking to relax beachside, explore the great outdoors, or discover hidden gems, here are destinations for solo travel.

 Beaches

For solo travelers seeking sun and sand, the U.S. boasts some incredible beach destinations. Sanibel Island, Florida is a perfect choice for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed vibe. Famous for its shell-covered beaches and stunning sunsets, Sanibel offers plenty of relaxation. You can explore the island by bike, visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, or simply unwind.

Another great option is Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. This charming coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, art galleries, and quaint cottages. Stroll along the scenic 17-Mile Drive, visit the historic Carmel Mission, or enjoy some solitude on the beautiful Carmel Beach. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, ideal for a peaceful solo retreat. 

National Parks

Spring is a wonderful time to visit some of the United States’ most iconic national parks, especially before the summer crowds arrive.  Zion National Park in Utah is a top pick for solo travelers who love hiking and stunning landscapes. With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, Zion offers something for everyone. The Narrows and Angel’s Landing are two must-see hikes, providing breathtaking views and a true sense of adventure.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is another excellent destination. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, making it a beautiful time to explore the park’s network of trails. The park’s peaceful atmosphere and wildlife provide a perfect backdrop for solo reflection and nature enjoyment. (Be sure to check road conditions with the recent fall storms that have left many communities isolated.)

Off the Beaten Track

If you’re looking to escape the crowds entirely, consider visiting some lesser-known destinations. Taos, New Mexico offers a unique blend of Native American culture, stunning desert landscapes, and rich artistic heritage. Explore Taos Pueblo, take a hot air balloon ride over Rio Grande Gorge, or visit the many art galleries. Taos’ tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot for solo travelers seeking solitude and inspiration.

Another hidden gem is Door County, Wisconsin. Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Door County is known for its charming small towns, scenic coastal views, and outdoor activities. Explore the numerous lighthouses, hike in Peninsula State Park, or enjoy a peaceful kayak ride on the lake.

Whether you want a quiet beach, hiking through national parks, or discovering hidden treasures, the U.S. offers destinations perfect for solo spring breakers. These locations not only provide beauty and adventure but also the opportunity for personal growth, reflection, and the freedom to create your own unique travel experience.

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

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Valentine’s Day

Red Gerber Daisy in the Garden
Gerbera Daisies naturally attract pollinators in your garden.

Valentine’s Day, often celebrated as a day of romantic love, has evolved into a broader celebration of friendship and kindness. While traditionally linked with couples, this day offers a chance to extend love and appreciation beyond romantic relationships.

It’s a chance to recognize and cherish the various forms of love that enrich our lives. Whether it’s the bond with family, the friendship of colleagues, or the support of close friends, celebrate this year!

Celebrating Love

Valentine’s Day is a perfect reminder that love is not limited to just one type of relationship. While celebrating couples is popular, the 14th can also be about expressing gratitude to those who are important to us. Family members, colleagues, schoolmates, and friends contribute to our happiness and well-being every day. Remember these folks in countless ways, since they also deserve recognition and your love.

Family is often our first experience of love, providing a foundation of support and care. This Valentine’s Day, consider showing appreciation to your parents, siblings, or even extended family members. A heartfelt note, a phone call, or a small gift can make them feel valued and loved.

Co-Workers and Schoolmates

We spend a lot of time with our cc-workers and classmates. These relationships play an important role in our daily lives. They support us in our work or studies, celebrate our successes, and help us through challenges. Valentine’s Day offers a unique opportunity to strengthen these bonds.

Consider organizing a small celebration at work or school, where everyone exchanges cards or small tokens of appreciation. This can foster a sense of community and remind everyone that they are valued.

Cherishing Friendship

Friendship is another powerful form of love that often gets overlooked on Valentine’s Day. Friends are the ones who stand by us through thick and thin, offering advice, laughter, and companionship.

Take time this Valentine’s Day to reach out to your close friends. Plan a get-together, send a thoughtful message, or even share a meal. These gestures can deepen your connections and remind your friends how much they mean to you.

Valentine’s Day is more than just a celebration of romantic love. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge all the important relationships in our lives. By extending our appreciation to family members, colleagues, schoolmates, and friends, we can spread positivity and strengthen the bonds that make life meaningful.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s embrace the full range of love and celebrate the people who make our lives richer.  Happy Valentine’s Day!

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

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Your Heart Health

As you age, maintaining a healthy heart becomes increasingly important. Cardiovascular health is crucial to overall well-being, as the heart plays a central role in sustaining life. Your heart delivers oxygen and nutrients to every part of the body.

                  Photo by Aziz Acharki on Unsplash

With age, your risk for heart disease and related conditions like high blood pressureand stroke increases. This makes it essential to adopt heart-healthy habits right now. Prioritizing heart care and overall health can lead to a longer, more vibrant life.

Heart Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. But it is largely preventable through lifestyle choices. As you age, your arteries may stiffen, and plaque can build up in them, increasing your risk for conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. By taking proactive steps to care for your heart, you can significantly lower your risk for these issues. You will also improve your overall quality of life.

Regular Exercise

One of the most effective ways to care for your heart as you age is to stay physically active. Regular exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week.

Activities like swimming, cycling, and dancing are also excellent choices. Incorporating strength training exercises at least twice a week can help build muscle mass. This is important for maintaining metabolic health as you age.

Heart-Healthy Diet

Diet plays a significant role in heart health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help protect the heart. This also reduces the risk of disease in your entire body. Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, nuts, and avocados are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Limiting processed foods, sodium, and added sugars can also help prevent high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  These factors are common contributors to heart disease.

Managing Stress

Chronic stress is harmful to the heart, leading to high blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease. As you age, it becomes even more important to manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress. All these stress-reducers promote a healthier heart.

Regular Checkups

Regular medical checkups become increasingly important through the years. Monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar can help detect any early signs of heart issues. If needed, your doctor can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help manage these risk factors.

Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is vital to heart health. As you age, getting seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night becomes essential. Poor sleep can lead to heart-related issues, including high blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack.

Quality sleep is defined as no interruptions, like animals, snoring partners, or other factors waking you up at night.

Caring for your heart and staying healthy is a combination of regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, stress management, and checkups. By making these lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of heart disease, enhance your quality of life, and enjoy a longer, healthier future. Prioritizing heart care is a gift to yourself that pays off with long-term health benefits.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Library Interview

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone

When interviewing for a library job, asking insightful questions can demonstrate your interest in the role and help you gain a better understanding of the organization’s culture, expectations, and opportunities for growth. Here are three key questions to consider asking during your library job interview:

  1. What initiatives is the library currently undertaking to engage the community and promote literacy?

Libraries play a vital role in fostering community engagement and promoting literacy. By asking about the library’s current initiatives in these areas, you can gain insight into its commitment to serving the community. You can also determine their overriding educational and political goals. Pay attention to the interviewer’s response—are they enthusiastic about the library’s outreach efforts, or do they seem uncertain? Their answer can provide valuable information about the library’s priorities. It also signals how you can contribute to its mission (or not.)

  1. How does the library support professional development and continuing education for its staff?

Professional development is essential for staying current in the library field and advancing your career. By asking about opportunities for professional development and continuing education, you can demonstrate your commitment to growth and learning.

Listen for information about training programs, conferences, workshops, and other resources available to staff. Additionally, ask about mentorship opportunities and career advancement paths within the library. Understanding how the library supports staff development can help you assess whether it aligns with your own career goals and aspirations.

  1. What is the library’s approach to incorporating technology and digital resources into its services?

In today’s digital age, libraries are increasingly embracing technology and digital resources to enhance their services and meet the needs of patrons. By asking about the library’s approach to technology, you can gain insight into its readiness to adapt to changing trends and innovations in the field. You also will be able to detect funding issues that might arise. Budgets have always been an issue in every library I’ve every worked in.

Pay attention to how the interviewer discusses the library’s use of technology—are they proactive about integrating digital resources, or do they seem hesitant? Their answer can provide valuable information about the library’s vision for the future and how you can contribute to its technological initiatives.

Asking thoughtful questions during your library job interview can help you gain valuable insight into the organization’s culture, opportunities for professional development, and approach to technology. By demonstrating your interest and engagement, you can leave a positive impression on your interviewer.  You can also make an informed decision about whether the library is the right fit for you too.

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Portugal in 2025

Pink Coneflowers
Pink Coneflowers love a warmer climate.

Portugal, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, is one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations for 2025. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant cities, Portugal offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to historical sites, picturesque hiking trails, or world-class museums, Portugal has it all. Here’s a guide to the top tourist spots, hiking destinations, and museums to see while visiting this charming country.

Lisbon
No trip to Portugal is complete without a visit to Lisbon, the country’s vibrant capital. Lisbon’s charm lies in its mix of old-world charm and modern liveliness. Wander through the historic neighborhood of Alfama, where narrow streets, colorful buildings, and Fado music create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These showcase the grandeur of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. For stunning views of the city, take a ride on the Santa Justa Lift or head to one of Lisbon’s many “miradouros,” (Viewpoints for photos).

Porto
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is famous for its wine and stunning architecture. The historic Ribeira district, with its cobbled streets and colorful houses, is a must-see. As a librarian, don’t miss the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Tickets are well worth the history and tour.

Or visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, for spectacular views of the Douro River. Of course, no visit to Porto is complete without a tour of the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.  Here you can learn about and taste the city’s famous export – Cheers!

Sintra
Located just a short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town nestled in the hills of the Serra de Sintra. It’s home to some of Portugal’s most stunning palaces and gardens, including the colorful National Palace of Pena. This palace looks like something out of a storybook.

The Moorish Castle, with its breathtaking views, and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, with its gardens and tunnels, are must-visits. Sintra’s blend of natural beauty and architectural wonders makes it one of Portugal’s most magical destinations.

Hiking
Portugal’s diverse landscapes offer excellent hiking trails for nature lovers. The Rota Vicentina, located in the southwestern Alentejo and Algarve regions, is one of the most beautiful coastal trails in Europe.

The trail offers a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint fishing villages. The Fisherman’s Trail, in particular, is a favorite among hikers for its stunning ocean views and challenging terrain.

Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal’s only national park, is a paradise for hikers. Located in the northern part of the country, the park features lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and ancient stone villages. Take your pick in any of Portugal’s many cities to enjoy nature and get your heart pumping.

Museums and Churches

Finally, Portugal’s many museums and ancient churches are a must see for your travel agenda. Carmo Archaeological Museum is situated in the ruins of the old Church of Santa Maria do Carm. This church was founded in 1389 by D. Nuno Alvares Pereira.

While in Lisbon don’t miss the most ornate church ever seen, Igreja de Sao Rogue. With its gilded interiors and opulent chapels, every turn is full of history and a great photo opportunity.

Whether you’re a nature lover or seasoned tourist, Portugal is a European location not to be missed this year.

For more travel inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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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