Beyond the Hump: Reclaiming the Middle of the Week

We’ve all heard it for decades: “It’s Hump Day!” The phrase usually conjures up images of tired office workers eye-balling the Friday finish line. But for the women of the OWRO generation, Wednesday doesn’t have to be a hill to climb—it can be the summit where we stop to enjoy the view.

Whether you are still rockin’ a career, pivoting to a side hustle, or enjoying the freedom of a self-directed schedule, the middle of the week is the perfect time to shift gears. When we aren’t tied to a traditional 9-to-5, days can sometimes bleed into one another. Marking "Hump Day" gives the week a rhythm and a reason to celebrate.

5 Ways to Make Your Wednesday Sparkle

1. The Mid-Week "Home Spa" Escape Why wait for a special occasion to feel pampered? Turn your bathroom into a sanctuary. Light those "expensive" candles, put on a face mask, and let the world wait. Wednesday is the perfect day to soak away the Monday-Tuesday stress and reset your glow for the days ahead.

2. The "Spa & Sparkle" Soiree Everything is better with friends. Invite a couple of your best girlfriends over for a "Spa Afternoon." Tell everyone to bring their favorite polish or a new sheet mask. It’s low-pressure, high-connection, and a lot cheaper than a resort!

3. The Mid-Week Treat Make Wednesday the day you visit that specific bakery, florist, or coffee shop. By designating a "Wednesday-only" indulgence, you create a bright spot in the literal center of your week.

4. The "Check-In" Tradition Use this day to call one person you haven’t spoken to in a while. Since it’s not the busy start of the week or the frantic weekend, Wednesdays are usually the sweet spot for a long, meaningful chat.

5. The Pivot Ritual Take five minutes to "clear the deck." Look at what you’ve accomplished since Sunday and celebrate it! Then, pivot your energy toward whatever makes you feel most alive for the days ahead.

The Bottom Line: We don’t just "get over" the hump anymore—we own it. Wednesday is our reminder that we are halfway to a new adventure, and we’re doing it with style, silver hair, and a rock-and-roll attitude.

How are you marking the middle of your week? Are you masking up or meeting up? Let’s hear it in the comments!

Marge Farrington                             OWRO

The "Invisible" Woman: Finding Your Light When the World Feels Dim

Have you ever walked through a room and felt like a ghost?

It’s a strange sensation. For decades, we were the ones everyone needed. We were the fixers, the builders, the keepers of the calendar, and the "emergency contacts." But as the years roll by, the phone gets a little quieter. The kids are busy with their own whirlwind lives, friends drift into different circles, and sometimes it feels like the world has simply… moved on.

If you’re feeling a bit invisible lately, let’s take a breath and talk about it.

The Mirror of the Past

Before we let the sting of loneliness settle in, let’s do a little "time travel." Think back to when you were in the thick of it—working, raising a family, or building a career. Do you remember an older relative or a neighbor you hadn’t called in months?

It wasn't that you didn't love them. It wasn't intentional. You were just busy surviving your own life. Often, the people we miss the most today are simply caught in that same whirlwind we once occupied. Understanding that it’s rarely personal can be the first step toward healing.

The "Whose Turn Is It?" Trap

We’ve all played the waiting game: “I texted her last, so it’s her turn to reach out.” Pride is a lonely companion. If you’re waiting for the phone to ring to prove you matter, you’re giving away your power. Yes, if you’ve reached out repeatedly and received nothing but silence, it’s okay to redirect that energy elsewhere. But if you’re holding back out of a fear of rejection or a "scorecard" mentality, you might be missing out on a beautiful reconnection.

Be the Light You’re Seeking

Here is the secret to rocking on: Don’t wait for the invitation to exist. If you’re feeling like you don’t matter, look around. There is almost certainly someone else—perhaps a friend you haven't spoken to in years or a neighbor across the street—who feels exactly the same way.

• Reach out again: They might be going through a "season of silence" you know nothing about.

• Make the first move: Send a card, a text, or an email just to say, "I'm thinking of you."

• Find new orbits: If the old connections have truly faded, it’s time to find a new tribe. New hobbies and local groups are waiting for your wisdom.

The Bottom Line

You are not a ghost, and you haven't been erased. You have a lifetime of stories, humor, and resilience that the world still needs. Sometimes, to find the light we’re looking for, we have to be the ones to flip the switch for somebody else.

Let’s keep rocking, sisters. You matter more than you know.

I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Have you felt this way lately?

Marge Farrington                                                                                OWRO

Marge Farrington                                                                         OWRO

 

Is it Friday? Let’s Make it a Friyay!

 

Let’s be honest for a second: When you aren't punching a clock every morning or chasing kids out the door for school, the days can start to look… well, a little bit the same. Have you ever woken up and had to check the newspaper or your phone just to see if it’s Tuesday or Thursday?

We’ve worked hard for this freedom, but sometimes that "freedom" can make the week feel like one long, continuous loop. Remember that Friday afternoon feeling? That "TGIF" spark of excitement? I say we bring it back—even if our "office" is now our favorite armchair!

Let’s turn Friday into Friyay.

You don’t need a fancy reservation or a plane ticket to make the day feel special. It’s all about intention. Here are a few ways we can make Friday the undisputed champion of the week:

1. The Friday "Creativity Kick"

Designate Friday as your day to explore. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try watercolor painting, or perhaps you want to finally start that scrapbook. Make Friday the day you say "yes" to your inner artist. No chores allowed during "Art Hour"—just pure, messy fun!

2. The Movie Night (Solo or Social)

Reserve Friday night for a "Feature Presentation." Pick a film you’ve been dying to see, pop some popcorn, and dim the lights.

Pro-Tip: If you’re watching solo, call a friend on Saturday morning to give them your "review." It gives you something fun to look forward to and a great conversation starter for the weekend!

3. The "Cheat Treat"

We all try to stay healthy, but Friyay is the perfect time for a little indulgence. Maybe it’s that one specific pastry from the bakery down the street, or a fancy piece of dark chocolate you’ve been saving. Savor it. You earned it!

4. The Friday Refresh

Switch up your routine! If you usually have coffee in the kitchen, take it to the porch on Friday. Put on your favorite upbeat playlist (you know, the one that makes you want to dance in the kitchen) and let it play all morning.

The goal is simple: Give yourself a reason to get excited when you see that "F" on the calendar.

How are you going to celebrate Friyay this week? Are you trying a new recipe? Taking a long walk in a new park? Or maybe just finally cracking open that book you’ve been eyeing?

Drop a comment below and let’s inspire each other to make every Friday a celebration!

Rock on, ladies!

Marge Farrington    OWRO

The Magic of the Mark: Why Picking Up a Pen is a Power Move for Your Brain

 Hey sisters! We all know Grace as our resident tech expert. Usually, she’s the one with the latest gadget or a keyboard under her fingers. But lately, you might have spotted her at her favorite local café, tucked away in a quiet corner with something a bit more... "analog."

Grace has traded her tablet for a leather-bound journal and a classic pen, and she’s discovering what neuroscientists have been shouting from the rooftops: Your brain is wired for the nib, not just the click.

While we love our digital tools, the science shows that handwriting is a fountain of youth for the brain—and a vital tool for the younger generation, too! Here is why Grace is making the switch, and why you might want to join her.

1. Igniting the "Thinking" Brain

When Grace types, she’s performing repetitive motions. But when she writes, her brain has to execute complex, unique strokes for every single character.

• The Science: Handwriting engages the Reticular Activating System (RAS). This acts as a mental filter, putting the focus squarely on the task at hand.

• For All Ages: For us, it keeps our cognitive firing pins sharp. For the younger folks, writing notes by hand leads to significantly better memory retention than typing. It’s a brain hack that never goes out of style.

2. Grace’s Emotional "Pressure Valve"

There is a profound psychological connection between the hand and the heart. In the middle of a busy day, Grace finds that "Expressive Writing" is her best stress-reliever.

• The Science: Putting pen to paper helps the brain move stressful experiences from the "emotional" center (the amygdala) to the "rational" processing centers.

• The Result: It’s like clearing the cache on a cluttered computer. Once Grace puts her worries onto paper, her brain stops looping them. It lowers cortisol and provides immediate mental space.

3. Slowing Down to Speed Up

We know Grace has a rock-and-roll attitude and moves fast, but handwriting forces a natural "lag" that is pure magic.

• The Science: Because you can’t write as fast as your thoughts fly, your brain is forced to summarize, prioritize, and synthesize information on the fly.

• The Benefit: This leads to deeper understanding. Grace isn't just recording her day; she’s reflecting on it. It’s a moment of pure mindfulness in a noisy world.

4. The Ultimate Digital Detox

At the café, Grace leaves the notifications behind. A notebook has no "low battery" warning and no social media pings.

• The Flow State: That wonderful feeling where time disappears is much easier to find with a pen. It creates a sacred, quiet space for her thoughts to breathe, away from the digital noise that can exhaust any generation.

The Takeaway

You don't need to write a novel. Even five minutes of journaling or a handwritten letter to a friend can sharpen your focus and settle your spirit.

Take a page out of Grace’s book—literally! Grab a notebook, find a quiet corner, and let’s show the world that writing your own story is the best way to keep your spirit vibrant.

Pick up that pen and let your brain rock on!

The timing is great for those who are inside staying warm!

Marge Farrington                   OWRO

Winter Storm Ready: A Guide for the Independent Woman

 

Winter storms can be peaceful when you’re watching the flakes fall from a cozy window, but they also bring unique challenges—especially if you live alone or are the primary "planner" in your household. Being prepared isn't about fear; it's about the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve got everything handled.

Whether you’re in a house in the woods or an apartment in town, here is how to "Rock On" through the next cold snap.

1. The Power of Lights and Communication

When the wind howls and the grid goes quiet, lighting is your first priority.

• Rechargeable Lighting: Move beyond old flashlights. Look for LED lanterns or power-failure nightlights that stay plugged into the wall and automatically turn on when the power goes out.

• The "Charge Everything" Rule: The moment a storm watch is issued, charge your phone, tablets, and any portable power banks. A high-capacity power bank can keep your phone alive for days.

• Stay Informed: A battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio is a must-have. It works when cell towers fail and keeps you updated on local conditions.

2. Stay Toasty (Even Without the Furnace)

If the heat goes out, your goal is to trap warmth in a small space.

• Pick a "Warm Room": Choose one room to stay in (ideally one with few windows) and close the doors to the rest of the house.

• The Layering Secret: Don't just grab one heavy coat. Layers are better. Start with a thermal or silk base, add a fleece or wool sweater, and finish with a vest. Don't forget a hat—you lose a significant amount of heat through your head!

• Safe Backup Heat: If you use a portable propane heater (like a "Mr. Heater Buddy"), ensure it is rated for indoor use and that you have a working Carbon Monoxide detector with battery backup nearby.

3. Water and the "Storm Pantry"

• The 3-Day Rule: Have at least one gallon of water per person (and pet) per day. Fill a clean bathtub or extra jugs before the storm hits so you have water for flushing toilets or washing up.

• No-Cook Comfort: Stock up on "easy" foods—think canned soups, protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit. If you have a gas stove, you may still be able to light it with a match to boil water for tea or cocoa.

4. Don't Forget the Fur-Babies

Our pets feel the chill too, especially as they get older.

• Extra Supplies: Ensure you have at least a week’s worth of pet food and any necessary medications.

• Warm Bedding: Move pet beds away from drafty doors or windows. An extra blanket in their crate or a self-warming pet mat can make a world of difference.

• Paw Care: If you have to take them out, remember that salt and ice can be painful on their paws. Keep a towel by the door to dry them off immediately.

5. The "Buddy System"

Even if you love your independence, a storm is the time to lean on your community.

• Check-In Chain: Establish a "check-in" buddy—a friend, neighbor, or family member. Send a text when the storm starts and a "thumbs up" every morning and evening.

• WNC Times: For those of us in Western North Carolina, keep an eye on wnctimes for the latest local updates, road closures, and community alerts.

Pro-Tip: The "Emergency Cozy Kit"

Keep a dedicated bin with extra batteries, a deck of cards, a good book, and a high-quality sleeping bag. When the lights go out, you won't be hunting through drawers; you'll be ready to settle in.

Stay warm, stay safe, and remember: we’ve weathered storms before, and we’ll weather this one too!

Marge Farrington         OWRO

The Art of the "Sisterly Sabbatical": Finding Peace and Perspective

Meet the Sisters... Now that they're older, they like to call themselves the Silver Sisters. Each one has their own style, some how, that helps them to compliment each other. 

They do their own thing, have their own style. I guess that's why they can handle living in the same house as each other.

When they need time away from one another, each one does their alone time their own unique way. They love each other, truly. But after a long week of work, even the best of sisters needs a break. They call it our "Sisterly Sabbatical"—that sacred time when the phones are silenced and we lean into the things that make us us.

But here’s the secret: even when they are alone, they're never really apart. Here is how they spend our quiet hours.

Evelyn: Reflection Beyond the Mirror

For Evelyn, alone time isn't just about the sequins and the hair; it’s about the woman underneath the beehive. You’ll find her in her dressing room, but she’s often staring past her reflection, thinking about the journey they’ve shared. She uses this time to find the inner strength she needs to keep being the "Motivation Expert" for her siblings.

• Her Personal Saying: "A mirror only shows you who you are today; inner reflection shows you the sisters who helped you get here."

• Her Secret Appreciation: She often looks at a vintage photo of the four of them on her vanity, silently thanking Grace for keeping them moving forward when things get tough.

Grace: The Logic of Legacy

When Grace head-dives into a technical project, it’s not just about the machines. As she takes apart a vintage radio or masters a new code, she’s thinking about how to build a legacy for her family. Her "edgy" exterior softens when she's alone, and she uses the quiet to solve problems that will make life easier for all of them.

• Her Personal Saying: "I don't just fix things to see how they work; I fix them so my sisters don't have to worry about them."

• Her Secret Appreciation: While she works, she often hums a melody Maddie wrote, admiring how her sister can find peace in a world that feels so chaotic.

Maddie: Rooted in Gratitude

Maddie takes "quiet time" literally. In her garden, she moves through her Tai Chi routine with a focused, flowy energy. As she tends to her plants, she sees them as a metaphor for her family—each one unique, needing different care, but all sharing the same soil.

• Her Personal Saying: "A garden flourishes when every flower has room to breathe, but they all bloom better when they're planted together."

• Her Secret Appreciation: She often picks a bright flower to bring inside for Dot, knowing her youngest sister’s joy is the light that keeps the whole house warm.

Dot: The Heartbeat of the Home

Dot spends her solo hours organizing the family archives—scrapbooks, old tapes, and digital photos. Even when she’s doing her "Happy Dance" to an upbeat record, she’s doing it to celebrate the fact that she has three best friends for sisters. She is the one who keeps the history so they never forget how far they’ve come.

• Her Personal Saying: "I’m never truly alone because I’m carrying three lifetimes of sisterly secrets in my heart."

• Her Secret Appreciation: She’ll often stop what she’s doing just to send a quick "thinking of you" text to Evelyn, knowing that even a glamorous leader needs to be cheered on sometimes.  

Are you close to your sisters, maybe sisters from another mother? 

We'll be checking in on the Sisters once in a while.

Marge Farrignton    OWRO

Coffee, Tea and Cherished Company: Where Do You Love to Meet Your Friends?

 

One of the joys of life, especially as we get a little more seasoned (and by seasoned, I mean fantastic!), is spending time with our friends. Those laughs, those shared stories, the understanding nods – they’re pure gold, aren’t they? And as we saw in the image of ladies chatting over coffee, there’s nothing quite like a good get-together.

But have you ever thought about where you love to meet up with your pals? It’s a little thing, but it can make a big difference to the vibe of your catch-up!

The Cozy Home Gathering: A Haven of Comfort

There’s something truly special about gathering in one another’s homes. It’s intimate, it’s personal, and it often feels like a warm hug. Think about it:

• Comfort: You can kick off your shoes, curl up on the sofa, and truly relax.

• Personal Touch: Sharing your home means sharing a part of yourself. It’s lovely to see your friend's personal space, their favorite mug, or the artwork they cherish.

• Endless Brews & Treats: The coffee pot can stay on, and homemade goodies are always a treat!

However, sometimes the thought of hosting can bring a tiny bit of stress, right? The "pre-clean" frenzy, making sure there's enough seating, or feeling like you need to whip up something elaborate. While we all love to host, sometimes it’s just not the right time, and that's perfectly okay!

The Coffee Shop Catch-Up: A Breath of Fresh Air

And that brings us to the beauty of meeting out. Our lovely cartoon ladies know exactly what I’m talking about! Getting together at a coffee shop (or tea room, or a casual cafe!) has its own unique charm and a host of benefits that often get overlooked:

1. A Change of Scenery: Sometimes, simply getting out of the house is half the battle won! It's a lovely shift in environment that can spark new conversations and fresh perspectives.

2. No Hosting Worries: This is a big one! No one has to fret about cleaning, tidying, or playing hostess. Everyone arrives, finds a comfy spot, and boom – the relaxation begins immediately. It’s a neutral territory where everyone can just be.

3. Everyone's Free to Enjoy: Because it's "no one's domain," there's a wonderful sense of shared freedom. No one feels like they should be helping out in the kitchen or clearing plates. You're all just there to enjoy each other's company, pure and simple.

4. Budget-Friendly & No Pressure: Let's be real, finances can sometimes be a consideration. Grabbing a simple coffee or tea doesn't put anyone on the spot. It’s an easy, affordable way to connect without feeling like you need to splurge or feel obligated to bring a dish. You can spend a little or a lot, whatever feels right for you.

So, whether it’s the cozy comfort of a home or the easy-breezy atmosphere of a coffee shop, the most important thing is simply making the time to connect with those wonderful women who enrich your life.

What are your thoughts? Where do you prefer to gather with your girlfriends, and why? Share your favorite spots and tips in the comments below!

Rock on, The OWRO Team