Lisa Smith Molinari

1 week ago | stripes.com | Lisa Smith Molinari

One benefit of being stationed overseas as a military family has been appreciating things that Americans take for granted. I’m not talking about ethereal concepts like democracy and freedom. I’m talking about really important things that make a tangible difference in our everyday lives as Americans. I’m talking about corn on the cob. Yes, that sweet vegetarian delicacy indigenous to this great land of ours.

1 week ago | santamariatimes.com | Lisa Smith Molinari

“I have a challenge for you,” I offered my husband, Francis, this week while planning our annual family vacation to North Carolina. Then I threw down an unprecedented gauntlet:  “Let’s limit our packing to one carry-on bag each.”Silence. Then, Francis stuttered defensively, “Well, sure, but I, you, I don’t—”“Now honey, remember you’re a bit of a clothes horse,” I said as delicately as possible.

2 weeks ago | stripes.com | Lisa Smith Molinari

“I have a challenge for you,” I offered my husband, Francis, this week while planning our annual family vacation to North Carolina. Then I threw down an unprecedented gauntlet: “Let’s limit our packing to one carry-on bag each.” Silence. Then, Francis stuttered defensively, “Well, sure, but I, you, I don’t—” “Now honey, remember you’re a bit of a clothes horse,” I said as delicately as possible.

2 weeks ago | hanfordsentinel.com | Lisa Smith Molinari

“Should I have Oreos with my cappuccino?” I considered, settling into in the well-appointed auto dealership lobby while my car was being serviced. I had several hours to wait, possibly the whole day, while they figured out my used Audi’s latest issues, so I made myself comfortable.

3 weeks ago | stripes.com | Lisa Smith Molinari

Now that I am practically 60, I’m scared that old age might happen to me before I’m ready. I still dream of future travel adventures, transformative self-discoveries and personal physical achievements. I’m not ready to throw in the towel just yet. But what if I’ve already stepped off the precipice without knowing it? When I was a kid, anyone over thirty was “old.” This week, I turned 59, so I guess by my own standards, I’m downright ancient.