Check out this new website that helps you with what to say....Ever known exactly what you wanted to say — but not how to say it?

Whether it's setting a boundary with a family member, responding to a passive-aggressive text, pushing back on a coworker, or navigating a conversation you've been dreading, the hardest part is rarely knowing what you feel. It's finding the words that say it clearly and calmly, without making things worse.

JustSayThis.ai was built for exactly that moment. Describe the situation, and it generates situation-specific response scripts — real language you can use, tailored to the dynamic you're actually in, not generic advice.

How it works:

• Describe the situation and who it's with
• Get a range of response options — direct, diplomatic, firm, warm — depending on what the moment calls for
• Adjust and refine until it sounds like you, just clearer

Difficult conversations don't get easier by avoiding them. They get easier by knowing what to say. Give it a try!

My wonderful Pilates instructor suggested I get a half-foam roller to stretch the soles of my feet and ankles, which in turn helps my calves and knees. The trick is keeping it somewhere convenient — by the kitchen counter, your bathroom sink, wherever you already stand still for a minute — so the stretch becomes a habit rather than a chore.

How to do it: Step on top of the roller with your toes, rock them up and down, then work your ankle through its range of motion.

The one I use: A 12", high-density EPP half roller — firm enough to hold its shape through repeated use, supports up to 250 lb, and it's flat-bottomed so it stays put instead of rolling away like a full round roller would.

As I was preparing for a trip to France, I found a cashmere sweater set I thought would be comfortable for the flight. I sent it to my daughter, who said, "Would you like to save $350?!" To which I happily obliged. She sent me this sweater set on Amazon. It arrived three days ago; I have worn it every day, and I've ordered five more (two for my daughter!). This set is so comfortable and looks great!

We recently encountered a mold issue in the home we are renting, with mold levels rising to concerning heights. It became urgent to start eliminating the mold immediately. In my search for solutions, I discovered that English Ivy might help by absorbing moisture from the air. Intrigued, I decided to investigate further, and after some research, I ended up purchasing all the English Ivy plants available at the local garden center.

Here is what I learned from ChatGPT:
English Ivy (Hedera helix) has been noted for its ability to improve indoor air quality, including the reduction of mold spores in the air. Some studies have shown that English Ivy can absorb mold spores, helping to decrease their presence in indoor environments. However, it’s important to note that while English Ivy can help reduce airborne mold spores, it is not a comprehensive solution for mold removal.

I then wanted to know if the mold hurts the ivy!
English Ivy (Hedera helix) has evolved to thrive in a variety of environments, including those with high levels of pollutants. The plant’s ability to absorb mold spores and other airborne particles is due to its natural mechanisms for filtering and processing various substances through its leaves and roots.

Here’s why absorbing mold doesn’t damage the ivy:

1. Adaptation to Environment: English Ivy is a hardy plant that has adapted to survive in environments with different pollutants, including mold spores. It has evolved to tolerate and process these substances without being harmed.
2. Detoxification Mechanisms: Plants have natural detoxification processes. They can absorb pollutants through their leaves and roots and then break down or sequester these substances in non-toxic forms within their tissues.
3. Microbial Symbiosis: The roots of English Ivy, like many plants, host beneficial microorganisms that can help break down harmful substances. These microorganisms assist in decomposing pollutants and protecting the plant from potential harm.
4. Efficient Filtration System: The structure of the ivy’s leaves and root system allows it to filter and absorb airborne particles efficiently. This system helps in trapping mold spores and other pollutants, preventing them from spreading further.
5. Stress Tolerance: English Ivy is known for its resilience and ability to tolerate various environmental stresses, including pollution. This makes it less susceptible to damage from absorbing mold spores.

I have had this little book in my golf bag since probably 1982/1983 when I started playing golf. I continue to look at it probably every time I play golf especially for the downhill, sidehill lies instruction. For some reason, I never remember if the ball is below my feet, do I aim left or right of target! Anyhow, when I played with my daughter today, she wanted one and I wondered if it is still in print after over 40 years and it is! See the Amazon link below.

Something for your TO DO list mid-April is to venture to Parsons Reserve in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts to see the field of daffodils. It is a beautiful sight. The village of Padanarum nearby has options for lunch or an early dinner afterwards.

​True confession: if a diet of Oreos and Cheez-Its were like eating salmon and vegetables, I might err on a diet of the former! I consider myself aware of what is and is not 'healthy' to put into my body and make conscious choices. I was introduced to the Yuka App a few years ago. Yuka deciphers product labels and analyzes the health impact of food products and cosmetics. When I began using the app, I realized some of my 'healthy' choices at the grocery store were not as healthy as I thought. It works like this: you scan the bar code of a product you are buying; Yuka rates the product for various things such as additives, proteins, fiber, caloric context, saturated fat, etc. The app then gives an overall rating out of 100 and helps you make an informed decision about whether or not to put the item in the cart or keep it on the shelf. The App is free. I do subscribe to the premium version for $8.95/year. Be careful when you start using the App; those grocery visits can last a while as you want to scan everything!

​My rule is that if I share something more than a few times in a short time, I will add it to Nancy's Almanac. It may be because the nation is in the throws of the primary election season, but the conversation of wanting unbiased news has come up. To that end, I share my favorite source of news, 1440. Their site describes them as 'Today's news. Edited to be unbiased as humanly possible.'  Over 3.4 million receive their daily newsletter. I am one of them. Check it out and see if it works for you.