Posts by Crystal

Mid-Life Crisis Averted

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May 10th, 2013

Since I returned to my hometown in Southern California from living in Northampton, Massachusetts, I have often wondered if I did the right thing by moving back. For the last [...]

Vacation’s All I Ever Wanted

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April 26th, 2013

Wowee, do I need a vacation! An on-the-beach-under-an-umbrella-slathered-in-the-perfect-spf-cream-seconds-from-the warm-still-sea-where-I-can-swim-for-hours-and-hours-with-nice-easy-going-people-around-me-with-nothing-to-do-but-”be” vacation. I need at least seven good days of this and then, maybe a little exploring… maybe. The thing is, this [...]

It’s Tax Time

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April 11th, 2013

I absolutely love the fact that the Beatles wrote a song called “Taxman.” I know these lyrics weren’t really about celebrating the IRS. But I have to say, I think [...]

Easter Inspiration

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March 26th, 2013

Growing up, I had a perception of a punitive, judgmental God. As I have grown, my relationship with God has expanded and inspired me to live in a way that [...]

I Hear You

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March 19th, 2013

Having a good conversation is one of my favorite things in the world. The pleasure and joy found in a rich exchange of thoughts and ideas can be so satisfying. [...]

When The Saints Go Marching In

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March 8th, 2013

My grandmother died over eight years ago. It was the day before her 88th birthday and the day before Thanksgiving. We were sad and overwhelmed, and we were soon amazed [...]

My American History

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February 19th, 2013

This month, in this forum, I want to say thank you to those who bore the brunt of racism, oppression, and the castration and rape of their dignity so I [...]

Negotiate, You’re Worth It

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February 6th, 2013

In the last six months, I negotiated my salary, a car purchase, painting my house, a new roof, and now a refinance. Negotiating is hard. Negotiating is worth every ounce [...]