Welcome to Starting New Starting Fresh, a community for thriving single women seniors. This blog is all about living our best simple life (within our means) and on our own terms. We’re rediscovering ourselves after 60. Peace. JoAnn
Quote Day Friday (one day late) vol. 2
Today’s quote comes from poet, playwright, writer, and illustrator Nikita Gill and it’s a good one! “Women who believe in each other create armies that will win kingdoms and wars.” -Nikita Gill I believe in you, my sisters who are over 60. You’re have been an amazing woman for 60+ years! Thank you for…
Saturday Morning Slowdown vol. 2
It’s Saturday! On Saturday morning I do Saturday stuff, like reading a chapter from this collection of stories. My plan is to relax and unwind from a busy week of writing and blogging. Then take a walk around the driveway. Afterward it’s back to my book and another cup of coffee. What more could a…
Read the Books You Own: Breaking the Kindle Clutter with Project Kindness
Hi, friends. How many books are in your personal library? Most importantly, how many of those books have you finished reading? It is a common struggle, but my goal this year is simple: read the books you own before bringing a single new title home. I have faith that many of you are already more…
The Benefits of Flowers for Seniors A Simple Act of Kindness
Feeding the Soul on Snowy Days Hi, friends. Let’s talk about the simple joy of fresh flowers. How often do you buy them for yourself? If you’re waiting for someone else to bring you a bouquet, you might have to wait a long time. I’ve found that there are so many benefits of flowers for…
Small Batch Squash Pancakes (Dairy Free and Egg Free)
Hey friends, today for you I have a simple recipe for small batch squash pancakes that are baked in the oven, no standing at the stove! These babies are delicious, as well as being dairy and egg free. Since food prices are always going up and we solo seniors live within our means, I went…
Single by Choice is Our Superpower
Being single by choice is a life decision people rarely seem willing to understand. I’ll never forget the day about 20 years ago when I went to see a new optometrist. After the usual introductions, he gestured toward the waiting room and asked, “…is that your husband out there waiting for you?” I told him…
Sunday Mornings are For Pancakes and Rest
Hi, friends, and good Sunday morning to you! I hope you’re well, treating yourself kindly and respectfully, and enjoying your morning. I’m focusing on eating this delicious “small batch squash pancakes” and getting more rest today. I’ll have another great story for you tomorrow. Here is a photo of my morning breakfast. Coffee, of course,…
Saturday Morning Slowdown vol. 1
It’s Saturday! On Saturday morning I do Saturday things. Reading a story from a collection of stories, relax, unwind from a busy week of writing. And watch the snow fall. Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. What more could a woman want? Hope your Saturday is a peaceful start…
Quote Day Friday
Encourage Yourself When No One Else Will Encourage yourself when no one else will Push yourself, don’t punish yourself Validate yourself when no one else is looking Forgive yourself when no one else understands Believe in yourself before anyone else does. Because if you don’t do it, you’ll always be waiting for someone else …
Give Yourself a Round of Applause (Yes, even for the Small Stuff)
It’s time to give yourself a round of applause, my friends. When was the last time you celebrated yourself for finishing the laundry? Or for cooking a meal? Maybe even for getting through the day? Have you ever come home, taken a nice warm shower, looked in the mirror, and given yourself a thumbs-up for…






