Diane Petrella

10/31/2025

I share this every Halloween so here's my yearly reminder:

In spiritual traditions it's believed that within this 24-hour period—between Halloween and All Saint's Day—the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is thinnest. This means that you're able to connect more easily with the non-physical realms and those who have passed.

It's also a good time to ask the spirit world for their assistance. So if there's a problem you need help with, ask for support.

Is there someone you want to connect with?
Could you use some guidance with a problem you're having?

Create some quiet time today and request the presence of spirit to communicate with you.

Blessings for a moving and meaningful communion.

10/30/2025

42 Million Americans Receive SNAP Benefits and Are About to Experience Deep Stress and Trauma.

I’m astonished that in a country as wealthy as the United States, food subsidies with the SNAP program will stop on 10/31 because of political dysfunction.

I’m equally astonished at the vitriol I read from people who think, “They should get a job! I don’t want my tax dollars spent that way.”

What?

I was almost there myself…

My parents immigrated to the US from Italy. My father was a tailor and managed a dry-cleaning store. He died suddenly and tragically when I was 11 years old. My mother had a fifth-grade education. Once she pulled herself out of grief, she worked in a store for minimum wage.

If it weren’t for Social Security Survivor benefits, my mother would have needed to receive whatever welfare benefits were available in the 1960s to stay afloat. We probably would have received similar SNAP benefits to keep our stomachs full. (I imagine some people judge SS Survivor benefits, too. Shame on them.)

Why the criticism of people receiving benefits just to help them survive?

There but for the grace of God, go I…

If you’re struggling and will lose your SNAP benefits, I am so sorry. Please reach out to your local service agencies and food banks as support may be available.

And if you’re not struggling financially, consider offering whatever help you can.

Because no one knows what tragedy and misfortune life may bring. May the politicians soon do the right thing and take care of our people.

10/26/2025

I love autumn... and I love baking. This is my favorite: Apple, pear, cranberry pie.

It's yummy!

What's your favorite autumn treat?

10/23/2025

I'm taking Mahjong lessons!

Last night Carl and I had our first of five classes. It was so confusing! But I think I got the overall gist of this game and look forward to learning.

Once I master the basics, playing regularly with others will be a great way to keep my mind sharp, meet new people, and have fun!

I value exploring and learning new things in life so this is exciting to me!

Do you play Mahjong? Please let me know!

10/19/2025

Good Sunday my friends! I hope you’re having a lovely weekend.

I was hiking in the White Mountains the past few days and stayed in one of the Appalachian Mountain Club huts. If you enjoy hiking as much as I do and have never stayed in an AMC hut, check out this fabulous system. It’s a great way to sleep in the woods without having to carry extra camping gear because the crew makes breakfast and dinner and you sleep in a bunk room.

It was gorgeous up there and I’m grateful that my body allowed me to easily carry a heavy backpack as I hiked along challenging trails.

I planned this trip before I knew about the No Kings Rallies otherwise I would have attended one. If you went, please feel free to share your photos. Or… share some autumn foliage!

Either way, cheers for protecting our democracy… and the environment. 💚

10/15/2025

My favorite quote. I like to post this periodically as a supportive reminder. So here you go. 💜

10/10/2025

You don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out for support if you’re struggling, especially if you’re having thoughts of self-harm.

People are ready to help. Because you matter. Call, text, chat 988. Link in comments too.

Today is World Mental Health Day. 💚

No matter what you're facing, help is always here. If you're struggling or know someone who is, you can call, text, or chat 988 to connect with skilled, compassionate counselors who care. You're not alone. 988lifeline.org

10/10/2025

One small step can help you move forward in your life.

If you're honest with yourself, you know what you need to do, right?

What step have you not taken that you know is important to take? Whatever that is, just put one foot in front of the other and do it.

10/09/2025

Feeling stuck in survival mode?

It doesn’t have to be that way.

I’m honored to be part of the Nourished Woman Experience, a FREE virtual event, coming up October 13–24, to help you learn to nourish every area of your life.

When you join us, you’ll get free access to 23 incredible masterclasses, where you’ll learn to:

✔ Balance your energy

✔ Heal your hormones

✔ Release weight without restriction

✔ Reconnect with joy & ease

✔ And so much more!

It’s time to slow down, breathe, and receive.

All sessions plus replays included.

Claim your free seat + thousands in BONUS GIFTS 👉 nourishedwomanexperience.com

10/07/2025

I recently started using THE BEST APP! Have you heard of Yuka?
Yuka is my food shopping companion. Here's why...

I use Yuka to scan the bar code of my groceries to learn how products rate nutritionally. You'll learn the details about healthy, not so healthy, and downright unhealthy (frankly dangerous) additives and preservatives put in the food you eat.

Yuka is my food shopping BFF.

Here's a comparison of Triscuits and Whole Foods 365 brand wheat crackers. Don't let the name of so-called "healthy" markets fool you.

Do your research.

The Big Food industry wants to make obscene profits. Yuka wants you to stay healthy.

Your body needs you to keep it healthy and strong. Stay informed of what you put into it. This beautiful app will help you do that. You're welcome.

10/05/2025

Many people are experiencing stress, worry, and anxiety due to the government shut down. Here's one reason why:

The government shutdown is at least partly due to Democrats wanting to protect Americans from losing their health coverage.

The enhanced premium tax credits (subsidies) that help people afford ACA marketplace plans are set to expire at the end of 2025, if not extended by Congress, which is what Democrats are demanding.

Without these subsidies, people (Democrats, Republicans, and Independents) will see significantly higher monthly premiums and potential coverage losses for millions of Americans starting in 2026.

My own insurance is increasing but not by much. And I'm fortunate to be able to manage it.

If you receive coverage through the ACA and are affected by this, I am so sorry. This isn't a stress that you and the citizens of a developed country should have to deal with. We can do better.

Let's demand it with our advocacy and vote.