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

Finding Your "Quiet Center" in a Loud World

We are two weeks into the year, and if we’re being honest, the world feels a bit heavy right now. Between the headlines and the hustle, peace can feel like a rare commodity.

For those of us in the Older Women Rock On community, we’ve learned that peace doesn't usually just "happen"—we have to go out and find it, or better yet, create it right where we are.

The Art of the "Positive Hum"

When the world feels a little too loud or chaotic, I’ve found a trick that works wonders: I put a favorite YouTube video on the TV—maybe a beautiful spring day or a sweeping view of the mountains. I turn the volume all the way down and just let it play.

There is something about having that visual of a peaceful landscape or a sunny day moving in the background that changes the entire energy of the room. It brings a "positive hum" into my space, even when the news outside is anything but positive.

What is Your Peace-Generator?

This time of year is tricky. The weather often keeps us tucked inside, which can make us feel a bit restless. But this is the perfect season to lean into our creative sides. Peace can be found in the small, intentional acts:

• The Creative Spark: Whether it’s picking up a paintbrush, drawing, or finally sitting down to write that story, creativity is a bridge to a quieter mind.

• The Sound of Connection: Sometimes peace is found in the voice of a friend on the other end of the phone, or a piece of music that feels like a warm blanket.

• The Power of Stillness: Just being. No phone, no chores—just sitting still and letting your thoughts settle like snow in a globe.

• The Great Outdoors (Even if it’s Brief): A short walk, or even just standing on the step to breathe in the cold air, can reset your system.

A Gentle Challenge for the Week

As we navigate the rest of this month, I want to challenge you to find your "peace-generator." What is that one thing that lowers your shoulders and helps you breathe a little deeper?

Maybe it’s a silent mountain view on your screen, or the scratch of a pen on paper. Whatever it is, claim it. The world will always be a bit crazy, but our inner world is ours to tend.

What works for you? Do you have a favorite "view" or a hobby that brings you back to center? Let’s share our peace-finding tips in the comments.

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A few thoughts for your blog:

• Visuals: This post would look great with a photo of a cozy interior or a beautiful mountain landscape.

• Engagement: Your idea about the YouTube "background" is a great tip—your readers will likely love that specific, easy-to-do advice.

Marge Farrington    OWRO

 

What’s in My Analogue Bag? 5 Ways to Swap "Doomscrolling" for "Soul Time"

 

What’s in My Analogue Bag? 5 Ways to Swap "Doomscrolling" for "Soul Time"

We’ve all been there: you pick up your phone to check the weather, and forty-five minutes later, you’re spiraling through news alerts and social media feeds. For those of us who "rock on" with a little less physical mobility these days, our screens often become our primary window to the world.

But what if we reclaimed that time?

The Analogue Bag movement is about gathering the things that feed your spirit into one beautiful, reachable place. Whether you’re heading to a doctor’s waiting room or simply settling into your favorite chair for the afternoon, here are five low-impact ways to fill your bag (or your side-table basket) with "soul time."

1. The "Slow-Read" Journal

Instead of a heavy hardcover, try a Commonplace Book. This is a simple notebook where you jot down beautiful quotes, a line from a poem, or a memory that made you smile. It requires no physical exertion, just a pen and a bit of reflection. It’s a way to "scroll" through your own wisdom instead of a stranger's feed.

2. Micro-Crafting: The "One-Square" Project

If traditional knitting or large quilts are too taxing on the joints, try micro-crafting. This could be a small embroidery hoop, a simple crochet square, or even "diamond painting" (which uses tiny resin "diamonds" to create a mosaic). These projects are lightweight, sit right in your lap, and give you a tangible sense of accomplishment.

3. Tactile Brain Games

Swap the digital Wordle for a physical book of crosswords, Sudoku, or even a deck of cards. There is something about the "scratch-scratch" of a pencil on paper or the shuffle of a deck that engages the senses in a way a glass screen never can. It’s "brain-gymnastics" that you can do entirely from a seated position.

4. The Correspondence Kit

In an era of "likes," a handwritten note is a superpower. Keep a few pretty stamps, envelopes, and postcards in your bag. Writing a three-sentence "I’m thinking of you" note to a grandchild or a friend is a beautiful way to stay socially connected without the exhaustion of a long outing.

5. Audio-Savouring (with a Twist)

If your eyes get tired of reading, include a pair of comfortable headphones in your bag. Instead of the news, listen to an audiobook or a "soundscape" (like birdsong or ocean waves). Close your eyes and let the story take you on a walk that your feet might not be up for today. It’s a mental vacation.

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Why this Rocks:

The goal isn't to be "busy"—it’s to be present. By reaching for your Analogue Bag instead of your phone, you’re choosing to nourish your mind and soul on your own terms.

Marge Farrington  OWRO

Patience and Respect for Yourself

There are days when it is hard to get started. I had a day like that yesterday. It was a rough beginning for me. I took a few moments to gather myself, just sitting with the morning light. I decided rather than fighting that feeling, I would just sit, afterward taking my time. I have an order in which I do things, and things usually flow pretty good. I just slowed myself down and found that focusing a little more than usual helped.

My reaction so many times is to get frustrated with myself, hurry through things just to get them done. By taking my time, I actually got things done quicker in the long run. If we can be patient with others, how about doing that with ourselves, instead of calling myself stupid or what is wrong with you?

Showing myself the same respect as I do others, I feel better, my routine flowed better and so did the rest of my day. Patience and respect for myself, what a difference. 

"Patience and respect: they aren't just gifts we give to others. They are the tools we use to build a day that feels good to live in. Yesterday taught me that when I slow down, I actually find my stride.

So, here’s to the slow starts, the deep breaths, and the radical act of being kind to the woman in the mirror. Rock on, ladies."

Marge Farrington OWRO

Your New Year, Your Treasure Map

Another year dawns, and while the world buzzes with resolutions, here at "Older Women Rock On," we're skipping the same old promises. This year, we're inviting you on an adventure: it's time to create your own personal Treasure Map!

Forget the generic "lose weight, save money" lists. We've lived enough life to know that true treasure isn't found in deprivation, but in discovery – discovery of what makes you happy, what makes you feel good, and what makes you truly rock. Your map will lead you to joy, strength, creativity, and the unapologetic celebration of who you are right now.

So, grab a pen, some colorful markers, or even open a new digital canvas – let's chart a course to a year filled with "X marks the spot" moments for you.

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1. Reclaiming Your Inner Artist: The Creative Archeology Dig

Many of us tucked away creative dreams years ago. Maybe it was art, learning an instrument, or writing. The beautiful thing about being an older woman? We have the wisdom, the time, and frankly, the audacity to pick them up again.

• Your Map Point: Dig up that creative passion you buried. Perhaps you wanted to be a commercial artist, and now, like me, you're exploring the exciting world of AI to find your creative voice! Or maybe it's finally learning to paint, draw, write that story, or master a new baking technique. What "someday" dream from your younger self is ready for its 2024 revival?

2. Your Body, Your Strength: The Physical Capability Quest

Let's shift the focus from how our bodies look to what incredible things they can do. This isn't about fitting into a certain size; it's about feeling capable and strong.

• Your Map Point: Choose one specific physical feat that celebrates your body's power. Personally, I'm focusing on strengthening my shoulders and arms – a goal that makes everyday life easier and more confident. Maybe for you, it's improving your balance, mastering a yoga pose, or simply committing to a brisk walk that makes you feel invigorated. What physical "milestone" will you celebrate this year?

3. Curating Your Sensory Sanctuary: The Unapologetic Pleasure Zone

As women age, there's often a subtle pressure to become "invisible." This year, we're having none of it! This goal is about reclaiming your space and your senses, purely for your own pleasure.

• Your Map Point: Curate a physical environment or a personal style that is 100% for you, regardless of trends or "age-appropriateness." Paint a room that "loud" color you’ve always loved, or commit to wearing a signature scent or accessory that makes you feel powerful and utterly delightful. Where will you boldly express your aesthetic joy?

4. The "Yes" Year: Radical Curiosity & Social Refresh

Older women often become the "stabilizers" for everyone else. This year, we're flipping that script. It’s time for some radical curiosity and expanding your social horizons.

• Your Map Point: Once a month, say "yes" to an invitation or an impulse that pushes you a little outside your comfort zone. This could be a music festival, a solo road trip, an open-mic night, or even just coffee with a new acquaintance. Another great idea: once a quarter, attend a gathering where you don't know a single soul – a library book club, a community workshop, a new exercise class. What unexpected adventures await you?

5. Break the Routine: Charting New Courses in Your Day-to-Day

We all fall into routines, and while some are comforting, others can make the days feel a bit too much alike. This treasure map encourages you to introduce vibrant variations.

• Your Map Point: Choose a few days out of the week – maybe Monday, Wednesday, Friday – to intentionally change your routine. For me, it's varying my exercise, but for you, it could be exploring a new walking path, trying a different coffee shop, or spending an hour on that creative pursuit you just rediscovered. How will you infuse freshness into your weeks?

6. The "Daily Delights" Cache: Treat Yourself!

A treasure map isn't just about the big "X." It's about finding small, sparkling gems along the way that bring instant joy.

• Your Map Point: Establish a regular "treat yourself" habit. Pick up that special candy, get that gourmet tea or coffee you adore, or buy yourself a beautiful single flower. These are the tiny moments you look forward to, the little "gold coins" in your day. What small pleasure will you add to your daily map?

7. Grand Expeditions: Monthly Special Occasions

Beyond the daily delights, let’s plan some larger "expeditions" – experiences that create lasting memories and break up the months.

• Your Map Point: Reserve one day a month for a special occasion. This could be a day trip with your spouse, partner, or a cherished friend. Vary it up! Explore a new town, visit a botanical garden, take a scenic drive, or try that restaurant you’ve always heard about. What monthly adventures will you pencil in?

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This year, your treasure isn't out there waiting to be found; it's within you, waiting to be unearthed and celebrated. So, start drawing your map. Make it colorful, make it bold, and make it uniquely yours. Every step you take on this journey is a rock-on moment!

Marge Farrington  OWRO 

 

The Lullaby That Lingers: A New Year’s Day Heart-to-Heart

This morning I sat quietly with a cup of coffee, still feeling the echoes of last night. I wanted to reach out and check in with you, because I know New Year’s isn’t always just about "out with the old and in with the new." Sometimes, it’s about sitting deeply with the "old" and realizing how beautiful it still is.

Last night, I found myself hitting "repeat" on John Denver’s “For Baby (For Bobbie).” For those of you who know it, you know its tenderness. But for me, it’s more than a song. It was the lullaby I sang to each of my three daughters when they were babies. I can still feel the weight of them in my arms, the smell of their hair, and that fierce, quiet vow: “I’ll do anything to keep you satisfied... I’ll love you more than anybody can.”

The Mixed Tears of New Year’s Eve

I’ll be honest: the tears were flowing last night. They weren’t sad tears, exactly, but they were "mixed."

I cried for those nights by the crib. I cried because those three babies now have their own children—and some of those grandchildren are now adults themselves. It is a dizzying, beautiful, and slightly overwhelming thing to see the circle of life move so fast.

The holidays have a way of magnifying that, don't they? They bring the memories to the surface like a high tide.

My Advice for Today: Let the Pressure Go

If you’re feeling a bit raw today, or if the "New Year, New You" energy feels like too much noise, here is what I want to say to you:

• Feel the emotions: Don’t push them away. If you need to cry for the years that passed or the people who aren’t at the table this year, take the time. Those tears are a testament to how much you’ve loved.

• Release the pressure: We don’t have to "conquer" 2026 by sunset today. We don’t need a list of twenty resolutions to be worthy.

• Just be: Take today to relax. If the most you do today is breathe, remember a sweet lullaby, and rest your feet, then you’ve done enough.

The "morning bells" are still chiming for us, sisters. We are the keepers of the stories and the singers of the lullabies. Let’s start this year with gentleness toward ourselves.

How are you feeling today? Was there a song or a memory that caught you by surprise last night? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.

Marge Farrington  OWRO