Tracy McPeck

4 days ago | fredericksburg.com | Tracy McPeck

We all know we’re supposed to eat healthy, get fresh air and exercise, and floss daily to keep our bodies strong and capable of handling life’s daily challenges. What we might not think about is our mental health, and how our minds need care and nourishment as much as our physical selves. The stress of work, parenting, finances, anxiety about our future, past traumas … all of these can pile up in our minds and challenge our ability to live life to the fullest.

1 month ago | fredericksburg.com | Tracy McPeck

Listening to an author discuss their books gives me a thrill, like I’m gaining top-secret insider knowledge. I love hearing about the research and the backstory behind creating a work of fiction or nonfiction. I’ve had the fortune of hearing authors speak in person, but it’s not always easy to make that happen, especially when it comes to major best-selling writers.

2 months ago | fredericksburg.com | Tracy McPeck

A spot of tea on a cold winter’s day hits just right. From herbal concoctions to green and black varieties, there’s a flavor of tea for everyone. In addition to the purported health benefits, a hot cup of tea soothes the soul, can wake you up or calm you down, and warms you from the inside. Even a die-hard coffee fanatic like myself appreciates the occasional cup o’ chai. Curl up with your tea of choice and relax with these tea-themed novels. “High Tea and Misdemeanors” by Laura Childs.

Dec 2, 2024 | fredericksburg.com | Tracy McPeck

Ever since I was little, the mystery of a wrapped book under the tree was exciting and full of possibility. Who knew what adventures lay in its pages? I can still recall the magical feeling of certain books I read in elementary school—the pale light and clear waters near the end of the world in C.S. Lewis’ “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,” and the wonder of Leslie’s and Jessie’s imaginary kingdom in “Bridge to Terabithia.” I was not only enchanted, but also emotionally affected.

Nov 4, 2024 | fredericksburg.com | Tracy McPeck

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but it’s OK to take a break from constantly scrolling the news, even on Election Day. The 24/7 availability of news and social media isn’t all that great for our mental health, as it can reinforce negative thinking and worsen anxiety. So let’s all put our phones down for a bit and calm our nerves with these entertaining, hope-inspiring novels. “A Psalm for the Wild-Built” by Becky Chambers.