The podcast episode reflects on Marcy's journey through her recent breast cancer diagnosis and her path to recovery while highlighting the importance of family bonds and proactive health management. It also offers practical advice on electrical safety and energy conservation in the home.

• Sharing personal health experiences and journey with cancer
• The role of family in supporting during tough times
• Importance of health screenings for early detection
• Safety tips on what not to plug into power strips
• Common habits that waste electricity
• Encouragement to look for positivity and connection

After a magical journey through Europe, filled with the festive cheer of Christmas markets and the scenic beauty of a Rhine River cruise, I found myself confronting the reality of a breast cancer diagnosis upon returning home. This episode captures the essence of my voyage, celebrating my 34th wedding anniversary in Amsterdam, and exploring how these experiences have reshaped my perspective. Inspired by my resilient nephew, I'm navigating this personal challenge with renewed strength and insight. Join me as I share not only the highs of travel joy but also the impactful lows, aiming to offer support and encouragement to listeners.

Beyond personal stories, I tackle the intricate maze that is the healthcare and social security system. From finding alternatives amidst pharmacy closures to dealing with surprise medical bills, I provide practical strategies to empower you in managing these hurdles. Plus, as someone who thrives in speaking over writing, I reveal how AI tools like Google Gemini have revolutionized my communication as the head of my church's stewardship committee. And amidst these serious discussions, I sprinkle in a touch of festive cheer with America's cookie obsession, hoping to spread warmth and joy this holiday season.

Ever wondered why "Aging ain't for Sissies"? Join me, Marcy Backhus, as I embark on an exciting journey from a sprawling California home to a cozy Chicago high-rise. As I navigate retirement, sobriety, and city life, I'm on a quest to find a new, happy place, all while embracing my love for crafting and creating Disney-themed treasures. You'll meet my family, including my supportive husband Craig, our grown kids, and our adorable feline companions, Pickles and Patrick. This episode is packed with heartwarming stories and playful critiques of terms like "senior citizen," as we redefine aging with grace, humor, and a touch of sass.

Unlock the secrets to organizing life admin like a pro in our empowering segment focused on consolidating essential personal and home information. I'll guide you through creating a comprehensive notebook filled with mortgage, insurance, and utility details, along with indispensable documents like wills, healthcare directives, and pet care plans. With tips on managing retirement information and recording critical contacts, this episode ensures peace of mind and practical utility for you and your loved ones. Get ready for engaging conversations with experts on aging, and discover resources like joincake.com to streamline your journey. Let's embrace aging together, with style and laughter as our partners!

Have you ever wondered what goes on inside someone's mind as they navigate life's ups and downs? Join me, Marcy Backhus, for a rollercoaster of emotions and insights. I share my thoughts on recent political debates, the sheer joy of fall decorations, and the humorous experience of listening to my podcast while driving. Grab a drink and relax as I unpack the challenges of downsizing—finding happiness in keeping and sharing beloved decorations and how maintaining joy is crucial even in the most minor aspects of life.

From the transition of my husband Craig building a resort to my vibrant social life in Chicago, where I reconnect with friends and lead a book club and stewardship committee, to practical advice like the do's and don'ts of using garbage disposals gleaned from a professional plumber—this episode has it all! Plus, prepare for a deep dive into recent Medicare changes and a funny elevator mishap with my husband that will leave you smiling. Stay tuned until the end for a fascinating fact about why hot water freezes faster than cold. Trust me, you don't want to miss this engaging mix of practical tips and personal stories!

What if a weekend getaway could mend the deepest family rifts and spark newfound hope amidst personal challenges? Join me on an emotional rollercoaster as I recount a heartwarming reunion with my estranged son, Kyle, in the vibrant city of Chicago. Our early Thanksgiving celebration was filled with cherished moments and laughter as we explored beloved spots like the Kris Krindle Market and the Field Museum. Yet, amid this joy, I confront a daunting personal challenge—my recent breast cancer diagnosis. With candid honesty, I share the path ahead and the resolve to navigate this journey with openness and courage.

Beyond personal reflections, you'll find practical tips for traveling Europe during winter. Learn the art of packing efficiently with versatile layers like fleece-lined leggings and the strategic use of accessories to stay warm. Discover how to navigate airline luggage policies to avoid unexpected fees and master suitcase organization with savvy packing cube techniques. As Thanksgiving approaches, I also delve into the joy of side dishes, share intriguing facts about turkey consumption, and reflect on the gratitude that fills my heart with my family's presence. So, buckle up for stories of resilience, practical travel wisdom, and a sprinkle of Thanksgiving cheer.

As November comes to a close in the heart of Chicago, let's embrace the holiday spirit together. With Thanksgiving arriving unusually late, I've decided to start our Christmas decorating a bit earlier. Craig and I are also eagerly anticipating our upcoming festive river cruise down the Rhine to experience the magical Christmas markets. Another joyous occasion awaits us as both Alec and Kyle return home for an early Thanksgiving celebration, where we'll indulge in family traditions like visiting the Field Museum and savoring dim sum in Chinatown. Amid these festive plans, I'm excited to prepare a delightful cheesecake with pecan praline topping to share with loved ones.

Navigating the chaos of holiday preparations can be daunting, but fear not! I'll be sharing my top decluttering tips to keep your Christmas essentials organized. From Craig’s unique spin on gift wrapping without bags to my personal strategy for preserving cookie sheets for holiday baking, there's plenty to learn to make your holiday season smoother. We’ll explore eight key areas to declutter, ensuring everything from ornaments to baking supplies are in perfect order. With these practical insights, you'll be ready to enjoy a clutter-free and joyful holiday experience.

To keep the festivities light-hearted and fun, we'll also cover the do's and don'ts of kitchen storage, especially the pitfalls of using the top of the refrigerator as a makeshift shelf. As a special treat, I'll share a historical tidbit on the evolution of eggnog, despite my personal dislike for the homemade concoction. And, of course, no holiday season would be complete without discussing our favorite seasonal beverages. For me, the festive season officially begins with a peppermint mocha from Starbucks—an indulgence I’m looking forward to savoring today. So, grab your favorite holiday drink and join me in this festive chat, celebrating the joy of the season.

Ever missed a week and felt like you had a million stories to share? That's precisely where I found myself this week, eager to unpack a whirlwind of experiences and reflections. From an early Thanksgiving celebration with family before jetting off to Europe, to the emotional rollercoaster surrounding recent election outcomes, there's so much buzzing Inside Marci's Mind. I'll also take you along on my Disneyland escapade for a 60th birthday celebration, where magic met exhaustion, and share the simple joys like soaking up a Chicago sunrise and the hilarity of Patrick's obsession with mouse videos. Join me as I recount these moments of joy, concern, and community interaction that have filled my days.

But as the night falls, so do my sleep struggles. Enter the maze of "shift sleeping" where restful nights seem elusive, and discover the culprits hiding in your kitchen that might be disrupting your slumber. Caffeine, sugar, and even cheese could be the sneaky bandits in your nightly routine. I'll share insights on mindful alternatives like chamomile tea and the powerful role nutrients and vitamins play in promoting better sleep. Plus, I'll sprinkle a little Thanksgiving fun with a peek into the origins of football traditions and an update on my fantasy football team, the Honey Badgers, who are tackling their way to the top. Tune in for tips, tales, and a touch of humor as we navigate these diverse topics together.