One of my goals this month is a simple one… but also kind of bold.
I’m writing a letter to Virginia Evans… and hoping she’ll write back!
Virginia Evan is the best-selling author of The Correspondent, the book I recently devoured (well, listened to… while walking… and also late into the night when I should have been sleeping 😄).
I’ve already shared my thoughts in my Goodreads review, but that didn’t feel like enough. This book practically invites you to write a letter.
If you’ve read it, you know why.
The protagonist, Sybil Van Antwerp, is a devoted letter-writer—including to authors. And now here we all are, a bunch of inspired readers, probably doing the exact same thing. I’m pretty sure that Virginia Evans is being absolutely inundated with fan mail right now.
Still… I’m sending mine anyway.
And yes—I’m including a stamped, self-addressed envelope and even an extra card. I know it’s a long-shot, but I’m hoping for a reply from this now-famous author!
This little project has me thinking a lot about letters in general—and how meaningful they can be.
Last year, while cleaning out my mom’s house, I uncovered a treasure I didn’t even know existed: a stack of love letters from 1954 between my mom and dad, written before they were married. Reading them felt like stepping into a time capsule.
Written April 23, 1954
My Mom wrote this letter 72 years ago today!
I also came across something I had completely forgotten about: a letter I wrote to my dad for his 71st birthday, encouraging him to write his life story.
And he did.
It made me realize—letters aren’t just communication. They’re catalysts. They capture a moment, but they can also create something new.
At the very least, they’re a way to create connection, give recognition, or tell someone you’re thinking of them.
I love all the wonderful ways we can communicate these days – text messages, IMs, social media, email, video-chat, and, of course, phone calls!
But, there’s something fun about good old-fashioned snail-mail! Partly, that’s because I get to seal my letter with my special Carpe Diem stamp!
And if I’m really lucky… I’ll hear back from Virginia Evans. 😊
Normally, I wait until May to come back from my Snowbird Adventures. April has such unpredictable weather in Colorado. We have snow one day and sunshine the next.
This year, I’d heard that Boulder had a much warmer winter than usual, and I wanted to be sure I didn’t miss all the Spring flowers that have such a short time for their peak blooms. Pearl Street in Boulder has such a beautiful, colorful assortment of tulips! The early return was the right decision. How fun to be able to enjoy this rainbow of color on a sunny Spring day!
April Joys – Lilacs in spite of snow
The lilacs in my own garden are always late bloomers, but the very fragrant lavender blooms are popping up in all the neighborhood walkways.
Lilac bushes still fragrant despite an April snow
True to form, Boulder did get an April snow last week. However, unlike other years, this one wasn’t heavy and the beautiful and fragrant lilacs survived. I’ve learned that rather than fret about snow, it’s better to savor the Spring flowers.
This year, one of my projects is going to be to try and capture the lilac’s scent using this enfleurage technique I found on YouTube. Wish me luck at capturing that sweet smell.
April Joys – Friends
One of the most joyful things about being home in Colorado is the opportunity to reconnect with friends in person.
Hiking South Mesa Trail with Mary
Since I’ve been back in Colorado, I’ve been enjoying getting back on the trails. Admittedly, April can still be a little cold for my overly-sensitive body. That being said, Mary and I were able to get in a beautiful morning hike at South Mesa Trail before the cold front came in.
For many years, I got out for morning runs even on the coldest winter days. Now I get to enjoy winters in snowbird spots like Florida, California, and Mexico. When I get back to Colorado in the Spring, it can be chilly, but it gives me a chance to bundle up a little and see the mountain scenery without the frigid winter temperatures.
Spanish Meetup at Ozo’s on Pearl Street
And today brought a different kind of joy. My friend Cathy and I attended a Spanish Meetup at Ozo’s on Pearl Street. What a fun way to spend the afternoon—practicing español with new people who are just as enthusiastic (and imperfect!) as I am.
Cathy and I have also been reading El Hobbit in Spanish together. She’s an advanced speaker, so I benefit from every conversation we have. Language learning is so much more enjoyable—and a lot less intimidating—when you’re doing it with a good amiga.
April may be unpredictable, but maybe that’s part of its charm. Tulips and lilacs that don’t last long but bloom through the snow, and friendships that are best enjoyed face-to-face—all reminders to pay attention while these moments are here. Spring doesn’t wait, and neither should we. So I’m soaking it in—the colors, the scents, the smiles—and reminding myself, once again, to carpe diem in every season.
Shanna in a Dress performing live at a private performance in Boulder, CO
When my friend, Mary, invited me to “A Multi-sensory Evening of Music, Art, and Community,” I was intrigued. The event took place in the clubhouse of her community and the main attraction was a talented, young artist, “Shanna in a Dress.” Any expectations I had were far exceeded. I quickly became a big FannaShanna.
Why I Love Shanna in a Dress
Shanna (in any kind of attire) is funny, clever, cute, and genuine. The lyrics of her songs will make you laugh and make you cry. She writes songs that tug at your heart-strings in the sweetest kinds of ways.
Every song she performed was relatable, but one of my favorites was “Sweet Spot.”
As a lover of words and the feelings they conjure up, this song makes me smile. It’s a reminder that wherever we are in life, we can find the sweet spots of joy that come from being human.
These lyrics gave me that same feeling as the idea of “perfect imperfections” in “All of Me.” Not perfection… but something even better.
Shanna-nigans – Shanna’s Newsletter
Not only is Shanna a talented song-writer and musician, her humor and banter entertain you throughout her performance. And her newsletters!
Just like her performances, her word-play and energy are infectious. In her welcoming newsletter she writes:
I don’t have dreams of becoming famous, I just dream about being able to deeply impact 1,000 true fans who have a heart for original music.
You just got one more, Shanna!
Super Carpe Diem Woman is FannaShanna!
I’ll admit—I discovered her emails had been quietly sitting in my Gmail “Promotions” folder (a place I rarely visit). That has now been corrected. I moved them to Primary and happily caught up on all the Shanna-nigans.
She travels throughout the country and she calls on her fan-base to help her by hosting gigs or house-concerts. Wow, she’s busy!
As if she isn’t busy enough, Shanna is even teaching a song-writing class! I’m bummed that I didn’t spread the word about this earlier since it already started April 7th. I have some very talented song-writing friends who might be interested, but if they miss this one, I’m guessing there’ll be more.
Seize the Day and Discover Shanna for Yourself
On this blog, I write about things that bring me joy. Shanna’s songs, with their playfulness and vulnerability, do just that.
As you may have guessed from my last post, I’m a fan of celebrating. Last week, I visited my Mom and sister’s family in Southern California. Every day, there were a plethora of quirky holidays to choose from.
Dogs in Yellow Day – March 20Daffodil Days – March 22California Strawberry Day – March 21Red Nose Day – March 20
I’m back home in Colorado now, but I was proud to celebrate “Something on a Stick” Day yesterday!
No Kings Protest in Boulder – Something on a Stick Day – March 28
Check the home page of CarpeDiemDay.com for links to Websites that list Bizarre, Special, and Unique Holidays. The one I think is the most comprehensive is: Holidays and Observances.
A day is always better with a celebration. Seize AND Celebrate Each Day!
I’m rarely home in Colorado at this time of year. Usually, I’m off chasing the sun in Florida, California, or even Mexico. This year, I got a chance to go to all those places and still make it home for two very important celebrations!
Celebrating Scotty’s Promotion to Major in the Space Force
Scotty’s Promotion to Major
I’m so proud of my son, Major Scott Podlogar of the United States Space Force! On the afternoon of Friday, March 13th, we gathered for the ceremony held at Peterson Space Force Base with a big group of Scotty’s family, friends, and co-workers.
I was honored to be the one to pin on the new gold oak leaf insignias on his uniform during the ceremony, signifying the rank of Major. During the speeches there were quite a few references to this Major milestone and what a Major accomplishment it was.
The festivities continued throughout the evening with a family gathering at a Japanese restaurant (Scotty’s favorite), followed by a showing of Marty Supreme at Scotty’s house. (Our family likes to watch best picture nominees during Academy Awards season). The next day, 3/14, was our Pi Day Brunch. (Pi Day is another favorite quirky holiday celebrated by our geeky family).
Celebrating Cathy’s 70th Birthday
Cathy turns 70!
It’s hard to believe such a youthful woman as Cathy is actually 70 years old. Her birthday is March 15th, the Ides of March! It really is inspiring to know that 70 can look so gorgeous. Cathy is one of the most beautiful people I know, both inside and out.
She’s seated in the middle of this group photo with our friend, Susan, on one side, and her daughter-in-law, Anna, on the other side. Susan and Anna hosted her party yesterday with a gorgeous brunch of quiches, fruit, eggs, potatoes, sausages, mimosas, and more!
I’d made a slideshow with iMovie with photos of the many experiences and events I’d been to over the years with Cathy.
In the process of making this video, I was reminded of what a deep friendship I have with Cathy. She is always so supportive and helpful, whether I’m asking her to sing a silly song, or needing a friend to practice Spanish with.
She’s also talented in so many ways – with her music, her art, her poetry, with Spanish, and with her loving friendship. I’m so grateful to have her as a friend.
This is Love
This weekend I was able to celebrate my son, Scotty, and my good friend, Cathy. I was so grateful to be able to be at their special events and be a part of their lives. Over the years, I’ve thought so much about what ‘love’ is. There are so many different types and for many years I was focused on finding romantic love. But over the weekend, at both of these celebrations, my eyes welled up with tears watching these two. My heart felt full. And I thought, “This is what love feels like.”
Carpe Diem Day 2026 – Arvada Winter Festival with family
National Carpe Diem Day is February 26th. It’s no coincidence that that’s also my birthday – my friends and family gifted me with this special day 6 years ago on my 60th birthday. The day was in tribute to my friend, Craig Dunham, who taught me so much about resilience and living life fully.
I’ve been celebrating… basically every day… with friends and family. After all, as the founder of Carpe Diem Day, it’s a responsibility, right?
Celebration in Bradenton with the wise and wonderful “Elderberries”Celebration in Louisville, Colorado with friends Sonja and Cathy
Carpe Diem Day Superhero – Ronald Richard Garcia
Ronald Richard Garcia was a true example of kindness and generosity. Even though we never met in person, he was one of my biggest supporters. Whether I was hosting a fund-raiser or simply posting a family picture, Ron always had a thoughtful comment to share.
I was so sad to read that Ron had passed away in February. The world will miss his positive energy.
Last year, Ron was the first to donate for the Alzheimer’s Association Longest Day fund-raiser that I held. Here’s the poem I wrote for my “Keep Memories Alive” book to thank him:
For Ronald Richard Garcia
Though we’ve never met face-to-face,
Your kindness fills a digital space.
From every post to each reply,
You lift us up, you amplify.
Support like yours is rare to find—
A thoughtful soul, so sweet, so kind.
For memory’s sake, you play your part—
With every word, you warm a heart.
Thank you, Ron. You Keep Memories Alive.
A New Carpe Diem Connection – Yvette Erasmus
This year on Carpe Diem Day, thanks to a serendipitous mistake, I discovered another Yvette who writes and speaks about communication and connection!
On February 26th, I usually google “Carpe Diem Day” to see who might be celebrating, and this year, an article came up that listed Yvette Erasmus as the founder.
After a bit more research, it turned out that National Days Calendar had mistakenly attributed Yvette Erasmus as the founder with a totally incorrect backstory. I was able to get the story corrected, and also connect with Yvette Erasmus. Her podcast, Conversations from the Heart, is a new favorite of mine!
Last month I’d read the book, Doppelganger, in which Naomi Klein and Naomi Wolf are confused with one another. I thought, “Yvette Erasmus is MY doppelganger.” How fun that she’s someone who writes and speaks on topics that I’m passionate about, in such an intelligent and articulate way!
Carpe Relationem – Seize the Relationship
Though Carpe Diem Day hasn’t exactly gained much fame, I’m proud to feel it will still be on those Special Day calendars after I’m gone.
I’ve learned that “seizing the day” doesn’t have to be about grand bucket-list adventures. New experiences are wonderful, but what makes the day special is the people you spend it with.
This Carpe Diem Day, I’m grateful for all the wonderful birthday greetings I received, for celebrations with family and friends, the kindness of virtual friends like Ron and new connections I make like Yvette.
In April 2022, I fulfilled one of my final bucket-list goals: I bought a snowbird condo.
I love my little place in Bradenton, Florida. Winters there, near the beach, feel like getting an extra summer. I found a rare fully furnished, turn-key condo, and when I’m not there, I rent it out on Airbnb. Thanks to its primo location near beautiful Anna Maria Island, it pays for itself.
But every winter when I return, I also return to The List.
There are always maintenance chores waiting for me — things broken, worn out, rearranged, or mysteriously missing. And little by little, as the old doo-dads are ready for the donation pile, I replace them with things that feel more like… me.
And apparently, “me” might best be described as: Whimsical Fairy Princess with a Thrift Store Budget.
Sparkle Style
My reading nook with my color tree
One of the first things I added was a lighted LED willow tree in my little reading nook. I love that I can change the colors depending on my mood or the season. Soft white for calm. Pink for playful. Blue for contemplative.
It’s my sparkle corner.
So this year, when I arrived and the tree was missing, I was disproportionately upset. I searched everywhere before finally discovering it stuffed in the master closet under a stack of beach chairs.
Apparently, at least one guest did not appreciate Fairy Princess Chic.
Despite the indignity of its exile, I’m happy to report that it survived. It is now restored to its rightful throne in the nook, once again casting sparkly joy as I write this.
Whimsy Style
Whimsy corner
Another aesthetic I embrace is what I call “Whimsy.”
A couple of years ago, I purchased a print of two starfish toasting while they dance on the beach at sunset from Sarasota’s Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy. And my Heron Love photo, taken by photographer and friend, Geoff Coe, also makes me smile. I found the beautiful shades of purple and blue in my new sea glass lamp stand. The lampshade looks distorted, which isn’t how it really looks, but I’m not bothering to correct it, since that kind of adds to the whimsy.
And, of course, there’s my flamingos! They are clearly the epitome of whimsy.
Cooler Colors
Inspired by a few episodes of Queer Eye, I decided this year to do more than just add random accessories. The condo was furnished when I bought it — but it leaned heavily into reds and golds. This did not match at all with the fun beach decor I like so much.
Original living room with reds and goldsNew colors with grays and greens
So I lightened things up.
I replaced the curtains with floor-to-ceiling soft gray panels (hung entirely by myself, thank you very much — those overhead dumbbell workouts are clearly paying off). I added green farmhouse-style lamps and found the perfect over-the-couch framed print at a thrift store.
And the slipcovers! I was absurdly proud of finding chair slipcovers that fit perfectly. (After initially putting them on backwards and wondering why they looked so ridiculous.)
The most fun part, though, was consulting with my interior-designer mentors — my sister Michele and friends Terri and Becky — who generously offered advice, encouragement, and very candid thoughts. (Maybe we start a new “Queen Eye” T.V. series?)
The Perfect Fixes
Beyond the decorating, there were practical victories too.
My bedroom blinds were missing the little swivel wand to open them. I found the exact replacement at Home Depot. No installation. No drama. Just click — fixed. That never happens! It was a magic wand perfect for this fairy princess!
My neighbors, Cheryl and Tom, helped me remove broken blinds and repair stubborn hardware. There is something wonderfully comforting about kind neighbors who know how to use real tools.
It’s amazing how much these fixes lift my spirits.
Interior decorating and home repair are not my natural talents. I am far more comfortable with words than with wrenches. But each year, as I repair, replace, and refine, the condo feels a little less like an investment property… and a little more like an ever-changing piece of art.
Like life.
Making changes. Swapping out what no longer fits. Keeping what sparkles. Leaning into whimsy, colors, and joy unapologetically.
Discovering my style— ever-changing and quirky, and entirely, uniquely, delightfully mine.
My adventures in Mexico continue. This weekend’s stop: Guadalajara hosted by my generous ConversationExchange partner, Ramón.
From the moment I arrived in Guadalajara, it was clear this trip would be different. Usually, it takes me at least a half-day to figure out where I’m going and how I’m going to get there. Ramón not only greeted me at the airport—he and his family spent the entire weekend showing me all the sights, sounds, and tastes of Guadalajara. I was a pampered visitor who didn’t have to lift a finger!
The Food of Guadalajara
Ramón’s wife, Sylvia, and their daughter met us for lunch at Tortas Ahogadas. Over plates of Guadalajara’s iconic, gloriously messy sandwiches, it soon became clear that Ramón and his family were going to give me an immersive experience in every way, including gastronomic delights.
Tortas AhogadasJericalla – A traditional custard dessert from Jalisco A snack of crickets! (I did NOT try this one.)Dulces! A sweet jam and nut-filled roll sliced into bite-sized delicacies
The Sights of Guadalajara
The family took me on several outings: walking city squares, visiting markets, exploring art galleries, and sampling foods. Even when we were simply walking, Ramón was teaching—about the city, its history, and, of course, helping me with Spanish.
Ramón is a natural teacher – that was his profession. Even though he’s newly retired, he continues to teach and is obviously a life-long learner himself.
We saw so many sights that it’s hard to pick out which pictures to share, but here are a few.
Feeling Like Family
On Monday morning, before Sylvia left for work, we shared a full breakfast at their lovely home. I was truly amazed at their thoughtfulness. Although we had only met through ConversationExchange Zoom calls before this visit, Sylvia and Ramón treated me like family. They paid attention to the small things that make someone feel truly cared for—tea made from homemade herbs with lemon from their garden, slippers waiting for me, postcards made with sand art, sending me off with a bag full of sweets. These weren’t gestures of obligation; they were gifts of kindness.
Their hospitality was so sincere and generous that I left inspired—and a little humbled. I kept wishing I could reciprocate in some meaningful way.
Whenever I offered to help pay, Ramón and Sylvia insisted, laughing it off with a cheerful, “Mañana.”
When Ramón drove me to Ajijic later that day, I tried to tell him, in my imperfect Spanish, how valuable the weekend had been to me. He had been my driver, teacher, guide, host, and photographer. These are expensive services for travelers. Not only that, they paid for all my meals, all the gas, parking expenses – everything!
But what was truly priceless was this family’s genuine kindness. That is an experience that I’ll always treasure.
Guadalajara gave me beautiful places, incredible food, and unforgettable walks—but Ramón and Sylvia gave me something rarer: trust, warmth, and a reminder of how powerful everyday generosity can be.
Final day in San Jose del Cabo before heading to Cabo San Lucas
I’m always so excited in the New Year! New goals! I’m going to read more, write more, exercise more, eat better, never get mad (😂), learn Spanish fluently, have an adventure every week, dance every day, give more, strengthen my faith, celebrate each day, and the list goes on and on.
This year, my first big adventure began in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. I spent 10 days here on my own before meeting up with my BFF, Lisa, along with her partner, Steve for a stay at Pueblo Bonito in neighboring Cabo San Lucas.
I’ll spare you the details and progress of my way-too-many goals, but the overarching “goal” for my life is to live and love fully.
Connections in San Jose del Cabo, En Español
Sharing a meal with Amado at his favorite restaurant, Claro Fish Jr. in San Jose del Cabo.
The first 10 days of the year, I was on my own in San Jose del Cabo. Every day, I had a goal to have a conversation with a local in Spanish.
Day 1: Taxi-Driver
Day 2: Waitress
Day 3: Get battery on my phone replaced (I’m still proud of this one!)
Day 4: Discuss Venezuelan President capture with Pharmacist (his topic and beyond my Spanish-speaking abilities!).
I hit the jackpot when I met Amado, a bilingual Mexican-Canadian. I told him that I wanted to practice Spanish and he was a patient listener, teacher and tour guide! He showed me all over San Jose del Cabo and was so generous with his time and his heart. It was my favorite day in San Jose del Cabo. Amado became a fast friend and I hope we’ll stay in touch.
Connections with God and BFF, Lisa
Full of awe at a the morning sunrise and a timely God moment
In my quest to further my connection with God, I’d downloaded the Bible app, on the recommendation from my BFF and Minnesota-friend, Lisa.
Every morning that I was in San Jose del Cabo, I was greeted by the most beautiful sunrise from the high-rise balcony at my HomeExchange.
One morning, right as I was viewing the gorgeous sunrise, my phone dinged and up popped the morning verse:
Arise, Shine, For the Light has Come and the Glory of the Lord has Risen Upon You.
Isaiah 60:1
It was as if God was texting me!
Attending Cabo Church in Cabo San Lucas with Lisa. They recited the same Isaiah 60:1 verse
Maintaining Connections from Afar
Even though I’m loving the warmth, beauty, and freedoms of vacationing in Mexico, I don’t want to neglect or be insensitive to my friends and family that are going through hard times.
Daily calls with Mom – She’s with her friend, Debbie!
The most valuable calls I’ve been making have been my Drop-in calls to Mom. She still has her good days and bad days. I’ve been happy to see that she now recognizes her new friend, Debbie and that they’ve become very bonded!
I’m also able to stay in touch with other friends and family – Facebook, text messages, and calls help me keep up with what’s happening with my “people” and it’s such a comfort.
What Went Well and What I Want to Do Differently
Overall, this first 2-weeks of 2026 went amazingly well. The beautiful HomeExchange, the ever-present bougainvillea, the colorful streets, finding a new sweet friend, Amado, improving my Spanish, meeting up with Steve and Lisa — all have surpassed expectations.
The one area that I could do better would be to detach more from the news. For the next couple of weeks, I’m choosing to cut back. I’ll stay informed, take a deep breath, pray for those who are suffering, and focus on what I can do—show up, help where I can, and keep noticing moments of joy.
