Nicole Fratrich

10 Things No One Tells You About Being a Caregiver

In the natural progression of life, children become caregivers for their aging parents. Yet caregiving takes on many forms for friends and various family members. No two caregiving roles are the same, just as no two patients have the same diagnosis, symptoms, and living conditions. Nurses and aides are caregivers within different facilities and environments,Continue reading “10 Things No One Tells You About Being a Caregiver”

3 Poetry Myths Debunked by a Poet

Roses are red, violets are blue, and poetry does not have a vendetta against you! April is national poetry month, so what better time to debunk a few myths about poetry? You either love poetry or you’re intimidated by it. Perhaps you can’t fully appreciate poetry until you learn more about it. Let’s take aContinue reading “3 Poetry Myths Debunked by a Poet”

From Someday to Anymore: Two Songs of Surrender in Love

Romantic relationships aren’t always roses and chocolate, whether it’s February 14th or March 14th. Is it time to give up or time to wait patiently? This deep question is explored in two songs from different decades. Marshall Crenshaw’s 1982 “Someday, Someway” is a champion of hope and endurance in love. On the other hand, JerrodContinue reading “From Someday to Anymore: Two Songs of Surrender in Love”

The Twilight Zone Episode That Could Have Saved the World

An eerie mood typically follows Rod Serling’s classic narrations of Twilight Zone episodes, especially when the plot zooms in on questions of morality. Many vintage TV shows feature moral lessons, and the Twilight Zone is no exception. Humanity is exposed and dissected, often leaving viewers with more questions than answers. But maybe that’s the point.Continue reading “The Twilight Zone Episode That Could Have Saved the World”

10 Christmas Traditions from Pennsylvania

While Jesus wasn’t born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, residents of the Keystone state have developed many holiday traditions that Americans all over the country know and love. PA Christmas celebrations are rooted in traditions that are ethnic, pagan, and Christian. Here are 10 holiday traditions, foods, and famous persons associated with the merriest time of year!Continue reading “10 Christmas Traditions from Pennsylvania”

Happy Sane Holidays

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and Ghostbusters II show us just how Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s can all go awry. These classic films remind us how holidays don’t always go as planned. We love to dream and imagine how wonderful and magical the holidays can be, but how often do plansContinue reading “Happy Sane Holidays”

Celebrate Halloween as an Adult

The spookiest day of the year is upon us! But even if you’re a kid at heart, that doesn’t give you permission to trick or treat with a pumpkin bucket in your hand. So how do you celebrate Halloween as an adult and still get all the feels and vibes of the autumn season? WatchContinue reading “Celebrate Halloween as an Adult”

Independence on the Cherokee Trail

Men must be ruthless to survive in the western frontier. Kindness and mercy are few and far between. Go about your way and don’t get into anyone else’s business. Except Mary Breydon is not a man, and she ends up jeopardizing other people’s business. Famed western author Louis L’Amour is known for his vivid storytellingContinue reading “Independence on the Cherokee Trail”

Honoring Lightnin’ Strikes Falsetto

2025 has certainly been a somber year as beloved celebrities, artists, and public figures continue to pass away. Plenty of warm tributes have been flooding in in honor of The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, and rightfully so! Sunny surf culture became a household vibe as a result of Brian and his iconic band. Less thanContinue reading “Honoring Lightnin’ Strikes Falsetto”

Easter Peanut Butter Blossoms

Running out of time to bake Easter basket-worthy cookies? Look no further! This classic recipe features a simple twist and can be customized. Start by making a basic peanut butter cookie dough. You can make it from scratch, if you prefer, or simply use a ready-to-go pouch. If you really find yourself in a bind,Continue reading “Easter Peanut Butter Blossoms”