On her birthday, the author reflects not on celebration, but on growth—examining motherhood, grief, friendship, health, and the courage to step outside her comfort zone. Through honest self-assessment and quiet determination, she recommits to becoming better, staying present, and creating community for widows who need to feel seen, heard, and valued.

The holidays have a way of pulling us out of our routines, and this post is an honest look at how easily order can slip into chaos—even in a space we love. I share how my office became a mess, the perfectly human reasons behind it, and the reminder that setbacks don’t define us. With grace, self-compassion, and a willingness to start again, even the most overwhelming mess can be handled—one small step at a time.

As Advent’s theme of Peace arrives, The Retired Widow reflects on sacred traditions, the rise of commercial Advent calendars, and how to embrace Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love through meaningful acts of generosity.

There are eight daily activities that Bethanne tries to complete every day. This blog is an outline she uses to maintain physical and mental health.

A heartfelt reminder to care for your health with small steps, daily habits, and gentle consistency—especially after the holidays. Your well-being matters.

 Procrastination can quietly steal our peace, especially for widows rebuilding life after loss. In this heartfelt reflection, learn how fear, grief, and avoidance show up—and discover empowering questions and actionable steps to help you move forward with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Winter in the South is unpredictable—one day it’s 80°F, the next we’re bundled up like Ralphie’s little brother from A Christmas Story just to take out the trash. In this Southern winter reflection, I explore warm-weather winters, seasonal shifts, and what “winter is coming” truly means for women navigating life changes, personal growth, and cozy seasonal routines. If you’ve ever wondered what winter really looks like below the Mason-Dixon line—or how to prepare for the emotional seasons of life—this thoughtful, humorous take is for you.

If overwhelm had a face, it would look like a gremlin tearing through my holiday to-do list with sticky fingers and zero remorse. So this year, I’m fighting back — with boundaries, deep breaths, and the magical power of saying “no.” Because overwhelmed women everywhere deserve peace, joy, and maybe a nap. (Overwhelm relief tips for women, holiday stress solutions, and widow wellness insights inside!)

Discover the simple joys that matter most after loss. From retail therapy to true gratitude, this heartfelt reflection from The Retired Widow explores healing, comfort, and finding happiness in everyday moments.

Discover how The Retired Widow finds healing, love and acceptance amid the changing emotions of the holiday season.

This post challenges the myth of multitasking, revealing it as a drain on energy, creativity, and true accomplishment. Through personal stories—including a two-weekend run in The Music Man—the author shares how focusing on one task at a time brought more mastery, pride, and joy to daily life. From cleaning the kitchen to taking a well-earned nap, each completed task becomes a small victory. The takeaway? Let go of the pressure to do everything at once, and instead, be the master of your moments.

I used to think retirement meant endless relaxation — slow mornings, empty calendars, and coffee in my pajamas until noon. But one year in, I’ve realized I’m busier than ever! From 5:30 a.m. wake-ups to rehearsals, gardening, grocery deliveries, and even launching The Retired Widow YouTube channel, my days are full — and wonderfully so. My dad always said retirement would keep you on your toes. Turns out, he was right.

It’s mid-July, it’s hot as Hades, and yet here I am — already thinking about Christmas. As a retired widow on a fixed income, I’ve learned the holidays don’t just “happen” — they require planning, intention, and a little humor. From creative gift-giving to protecting my peace, I’m starting now (yes, in July!) to make this holiday season joyful instead of stressful. Grab a cold drink and join me as I dream of a white Christmas… while sweating through summer.

 Life is full of unexpected moments—some joyful, some heartbreaking. In this post, Bethanne reflects on what it truly means to be prepared: financially, emotionally, and spiritually. From caregiving to widowhood to grandparenting on short notice, she shares how planning ahead has helped her navigate life’s biggest challenges with grace.