top of page
Search


Dear Next Chapter: My new partner is a Phoenix, and his adult children treat me like I’m a homewrecker. How do I win them over—or do I even try? ~ Phoenix Lover
Dear Phoenix Lover: For my new readers, a "Phoenix" refers to a widower who has risen from the ashes of his past to find new love. This journey is not an easy one for him. It takes courage to step back into the dating world, which can be a daunting and incredibly challenging experience.
Let's address the elephant (or perhaps the grizzly bear) in the room: grief can cause people to behave in unpredictable ways. His children are not attacking you personally; they are trying

Deborah Holmén
Jul 23 min read


Dear Next Chapter, My widowed boyfriend and I are ready to go public, but his family is still deep in grief. How do we break the news? ~ Hidden Chapter
Dear Hidden Chapter,
First, let me say how brave and hopeful it is that you and your boyfriend are ready to share your happiness with the world, even as his family is still navigating the waves of grief. Introducing a new relationship into a family mourning a significant loss is like introducing a new species into a delicate ecosystem. Success depends on patience, gentleness, and attentive observation. Remember, patience is not just a virtue; it's a necessity in this delicat

Deborah Holmén
Jun 263 min read


Dear Next Chapter: I feel like an outsider when I'm with his grieving family. How do I balance my needs with theirs? ~ Feeling Left Out
First, let's take a collective deep breath. If you're reading this, you've already done something incredibly brave: you've stepped into a story that began before you and hope to help write the next chapter. That takes courage, heart, and a willingness to be very uncomfortable for other people's sake. I know you have these things because I've been exactly where you are.
When you're dating or married to a widower, the family's garden is already in full bloom...

Deborah Holmén
Jun 193 min read


The Rise of Modern-Day Psychics: How They're Changing the Landscape of Mental Health Care
In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the perception and acceptance of psychic mediums. Once dismissed as mere charlatans or crazy fortune-tellers, these gifted individuals are now being recognized for their remarkable ability to help people navigate their mental health struggles. These modern-day intuitives offer hope and solace to those seeking guidance and understanding. This is part one of a two-part series.

Deborah Holmén
Mar 2, 20246 min read
bottom of page