Author Archives: Elaine Sycks

What makes you nervous? I despise conflict and arguing and when people are shouting over each other and going out of their way to be cruel.  It wears on my nerves if I am not successful as a peacemaker and achieving a resolution. 

How do you unwind after a demanding day? My unwinding is usually the final part of my day.  I get hugs from the family and the pets before I turn in for the night. Then it’s a hot shower with eucalyptus shower steamers, a cup of elderberry tea with ashwaghanda, lighting a candle and thenContinue reading “Loving on my family and then a little bit on me :-)”

How do you use social media? Since I have been relocated almost 1900 miles away from close family and friends, I use social media to stay connected to the ones I love even though distance may separate us. I use it for education: learning budget tips, new recipes, fun life hacks.  I use it forContinue reading “Connection, Education and Encouragement”

Jot down the first thing that comes to your mind. Grateful I made it through a stressful work week.  Grateful it is my weekend rotation off.  Grateful I will enjoy breakfast with my husband tomorrow. 

Describe a random encounter with a stranger that stuck out positively to you. During this past Christmas season my husband lost his job so he and I started side hustling as door dash drivers until he found work. One evening we delivered dinner to an employee who was working at a kidney dialysis center. EveryContinue reading “There are humans out there that care”

Describe a decision you made in the past that helped you learn or grow. My children are three of my greatest joys. It is always a heart struggle for a mom when they want to go out on their own. It was never more so than with my youngest who is autistic and desired toContinue reading “Letting my child take a big step”

What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why? Although the title may seem tongue in cheek, it is the honest truth. I do not like extreme heat so Death Valley is out, as well as the Middle East or Australia.  And I do not like “creepy crawlies” so the Amazon wouldContinue reading “No blazing hot sun or creepy crawlies”

Describe a positive thing a family member has done for you. My mom is a gifted pianist and poet and she fostered in me from a young age a love for reading and the arts.  I developed a passion for painting and sketching and even though my mom was a single mom and financial resourcesContinue reading “Love for Reading and the Arts”

What is your favorite restaurant? Hands down I would choose my son’s homemade cooking over a restaurant. Especially when he makes spaghetti with his homemade sauce. The service, ambience and dinner conversation make it extra special

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? My husband and I have a long term vision to be in a position where we would be retired from our careers and could spend our time together supporting charitable causes such as cancer research, volunteering and traveling in an RV to explore America’s history