By Margaret Shrum

As simple as it sounds, putting yourself first can be one of the most challenging acts of self-care. Somehow, taking care of the needs of others can feel more comfortable or easier than asking the question “what do I want right now?” We all have families, friends, loved ones who need us sometimes. It can be challenging to balance our own needs with the needs


When I was a teenager, I was obsessed with the Archie comic book series. I would sneak down to the Chateau Drug store two blocks from the house, spend all my allowance on Betty and Veronica dailies and hide them under the mattress before my mother came home. I was supposed to be doing my homework. At least she didn’t mind my dalliance during the summers. I was allowed to … 
It has been crazy hot this weekend; classic Memorial Day weather, a salute to the arrival of summer. I do not know why this holiday makes me think of all things nautical; beaches, boats, lighthouses and escape, but I suppose growing up on Long Island and living so many years on the ocean watered my psyche. The strange thing is, because of my proximity to the shore, I never really …