The Ways of Water

INDEPENDENCE - 250 Years And This Time It's Personal

On this episode, Sherry and April explore the real meaning of independence and freedom, arguing that they are not just about money or physical self-sufficiency, but about mental, emotional, and spiritual autonomy. They also challengesthe systems and cultural messages that keep people dependent, especially through gender roles, social conditioning, and control. The conversation emphasizes that true aging well includes critical thinking, self-reliance, and building healthier relationships through partnership and shared responsibility. Key Takeaways: * Independence is more than financial or physical autonomy. * Practical life skills build confidence and self-reliance. * Freedom starts with the ability to think and act without coercion. * Systems and social conditioning can limit personal agency. * Healthy independence includes partnership, not domination. * Gender stereotypes can weaken authentic growth and equality. * Critical thinking and discernment are essential for true freedom. GET INVOLVED… https://now.org/ [https://now.org/] https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/ [https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/] https://www.womensmarch.com/ [https://www.womensmarch.com/]

Feed Your Soul

In this episode of Things Mom Never Said: Secrets to Aging Well, April and Sherry reflect on the power of volunteering and how serving others can transform both individuals and communities. April shares her experience helping pack meals for children in need, describing the highly organized event, the physical work involved, and the emotional impact of seeing how many meals can be prepared in just two hours. Together, they discuss food insecurity, the importance of supporting neighbors near and far, and the broader need for both charitable giving and hands-on service. The conversation expands into how volunteering creates purpose, camaraderie, and even health benefits, especially for older adults. They also touch on regenerative agriculture, environmental stewardship, and local opportunities to help through shelters, cleanup efforts, and community organizations. The episode closes with a call to action: find a cause, get involved, and “be better people.” Key Takeaways: * Volunteering creates a “helper’s high” that benefits both the people being served and the volunteers themselves. * Small acts of service can have a huge impact, especially when many people participate together. * Food insecurity is a local issue as much as a global one, and communities can help address it directly. * There are many ways to give back beyond donating money, including hands-on service, prayer, and community support. * Volunteering can give people purpose, especially retirees or anyone looking for meaningful connection. * Helping others builds camaraderie, energy, and emotional well-being. * The episode encourages listeners to do more than notice problems — to actively contribute to solutions. * Environmental stewardship and regenerative agriculture are also part of “doing better” for future generations. GET INVOLVED… Connect with Feed My Starving Children here: https://www.fmsc.org/ [https://www.fmsc.org/]

The Domino Effect

On this episode, April and Sherry discuss how mind games, like Sudoku and crosswords, board games, cards, tile games, and even video games can enhance cognitive function, help you age gracefully, and keep your brain healthy. Perfect for anyone looking to boost brain health!  Research shows that games stimulate brain activity, fostering neuroplasticity and helping to create new neural pathways. This is vital because, as we grow older, our brains can become less adaptable. By keeping our minds active through games, we can combat cognitive decline and reduce the risk of diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Key Takeaways: * Engaging in mind games is not just about passing time; it’s a crucial component of maintaining cognitive health as we age. * Games challenge our reasoning, memory, and attention skills. * Sudoku helps improve cognitive function and memory. * Crossword puzzles are fantastic for enhancing vocabulary and boosting memory.  * Traditional board games like Scrabble and Chess stimulate strategic thinking and problem-solving. * Surprisingly, video games can also be beneficial. They require quick thinking, coordination, and strategizing, which can help develop new neural pathways and improve hand-eye coordination. * Diversifying your games can provide various mental health benefits. * Regularly engaging in these activities can help combat aging-related cognitive decline. Medical Research/Info: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9549265/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9549265/] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10973127/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10973127/] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7120035/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7120035/] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11436455/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11436455/] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6826942/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6826942/] https://hms.harvard.edu/news-events/publications-archive/brain/screen-time-brain [https://hms.harvard.edu/news-events/publications-archive/brain/screen-time-brain] https://www.neurology.columbia.edu/news/whats-better-your-brain-crossword-puzzles-or-computer-games [https://www.neurology.columbia.edu/news/whats-better-your-brain-crossword-puzzles-or-computer-games] https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/4-worthwhile-brain-games-older-adults-3 [https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/4-worthwhile-brain-games-older-adults-3] https://medschool.duke.edu/news/study-shows-crossword-puzzles-beat-computer-games-slowing-memory-loss [https://medschool.duke.edu/news/study-shows-crossword-puzzles-beat-computer-games-slowing-memory-loss] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7718610/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7718610/] https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/wellness/journey/june [https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/wellness/journey/june] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6174231/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6174231/] https://www.visitingangels.com/dearborn/articles/the-health-benefits-of-doing-jigsaw-puzzles/21435 [https://www.visitingangels.com/dearborn/articles/the-health-benefits-of-doing-jigsaw-puzzles/21435] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3885259/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3885259/] https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-physical-or-cognitive-activity-prevent-dementia-202109162595 [https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-physical-or-cognitive-activity-prevent-dementia-202109162595] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3885259/ [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3885259/] https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/cls-20177998 [https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/cls-20177998]

Prepped and Ready

As women, we often juggle many roles and responsibilities, but when it comes to estate planning, many of us overlook crucial elements that can safeguard our future and our loved ones. In this episode, Sherry and April are discussing essential estate planning tips specifically for women, based on insights from Enita Kushi, an expert in estate planning as the principal lawyer and owner of Kushi Law Firm P.A..  Estate planning is not just a task to check off your list; it’s an ongoing process that requires attention and care. By taking the time to establish healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and a comprehensive estate plan, you empower yourself and your loved ones. The goal is to create a plan that reflects your wishes and provides peace of mind for everyone involved.  Key Takeaways: * Women tend to live longer than men, which often means facing unique challenges as we age.  * Estate planning isn't just about preparing for death; it's also about ensuring that your wishes are respected while you're alive. * At the age of 18, your parents no longer have agency over your healthcare or your financial decisions. * One of the most important steps in estate planning is designating a healthcare agent * A Power of Attorney allows someone to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. * Create a comprehensive estate plan that includes a will and trust.  * Regularly review and update your estate plan to reflect your current situation. About Our Guest | Enita Kushi It was Enita’s dream to be a lawyer since she was 6 years old and help make other people’s lives better. As a lawyer, Enita is honored to be able to help clients from all diverse backgrounds, with different goals, needs, and expectations. Enita is passionate about her life’s calling and gets to live her childhood dream every day. She loves being a lawyer and improving people's lives and giving them peace of mind by assisting and guiding her clients to making decisions that change their lives for the better.   Enita focuses on helping clients who are looking to have freedom and choice to make their own decisions and who want to protect themselves and their families by creating and implementing their estate plan.   Enita Kushi is the owner of Kushi Law Firm, P.A., an estate planning, trust administration, and probate firm based in Naples, Florida. Her practice is dedicated to helping women protect their well-being, preserve their assets, and thoughtfully plan their legacy.   To work with Enita, you can connect through her website. www.kushilawfirm.com [https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.kushilawfirm.com_&d=DwMFAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=1My5hYs-CU2fm4kYB1i4WM3lfMlffhi7Jeaz81dPzdU&m=RYVwM2X0pxrzZqHoUHyReB9p-r1h73r_dTjcbnO0KzBmF64ZcQmX1e4-A1FaEUfx&s=WgoT4MlUySjIKMy3IKsa-GOCXH7K9v_gxWBfVZSj5RI&e=]  Follow her on social: FB: https://www.facebook.com/kushilaw/ [https://www.facebook.com/kushilaw/] IG: @enitakushi

Rewrite Your Story

In this episode of Things Mom Never Said, we dive into transformative life lessons with our special guest, Laurien Papa. You may wonder, how can one person's story inspire a broader movement? In this episode, we’re talking about second chances and messy love. After overcoming an abusive marriage, Laurien channeled her experiences into her debut novel, Swing State, and founded a nonprofit, The Bridge for Women, to empower others through transitions. Laurien’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of connection. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to rewrite our narratives and embrace the chaos of life. If you’re looking to transform your life, remember: embrace your story, build resilience, and find your community. Key Takeaways: * Life is not always perfect, and embracing the messiness can lead to beautiful outcomes. * Find laughter even in tough times, which can lighten the load. * It takes courage to pursue dreams, whether in writing, acting, or helping others. * Embrace your own story and find strength in vulnerability. * Recognizing your past is the first step towards transformation * Life’s transitions can be daunting, but they often lead to growth. * Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can make a significant difference in your journey. About Our Guest | Laurien Papa Laurien Papa is a storyteller at heart who believes in messy love, second chances, and the kind of romance that makes you laugh, cry, and text your best friend at 2 a.m. Her debut novel is the first of many stories she’s finally bringing to life after years of carrying them in her imagination. Beyond writing, Laurien is the founder of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Bridge for Women, where she is dedicated to empowering and supporting women through life’s transitions. Her work reflects her deep passion for connection, resilience, and helping others rewrite their own stories. When she’s not writing or leading nonprofit initiatives, Laurien is immersed in the beautiful chaos of family life—juggling a full house, sneaking moments with a strong cup of coffee, and always collecting inspiration for her next story To work with Laurien, you can connect through her websites. Non-Profit: Thebridgeforwomen.org [http://Thebridgeforwomen.org]   Her Book: LaurienPapa.com [http://LaurienPapa.com]   Follow her on social: FB: https://www.facebook.com/laurie.papa.52 [https://www.facebook.com/laurie.papa.52] LiI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurien-bartuccio-287a0424 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurien-bartuccio-287a0424] IG: @LaurienPapa TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurienpapa [https://www.tiktok.com/@laurienpapa]