Life After Loss

Still Growing, Still Grieving: Reflections at the Almost Six-Month Mark

Still Growing, Still Grieving: Reflections at the Almost Six-Month Mark
Standing at my kitchen window, I noticed tiny buds forming on the apple trees. The grass is finally greening up, birds are making their way back from their winter homes, and the sun is shining again with that unmistakable promise of Spring.

This is our favorite time of year.

Was...

Read more...

How Creativity Supports Healing: A New Chapter in Self-Care & Growth

How Creativity Supports Healing: A New Chapter in Self-Care & Growth
Since Eric passed away last November, I’ve been navigating grief and personal growth, learning how creative self-care and mindfulness can help with healing. Taking better care of myself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—has become a priority, and I’ve discovered that midlife reinvention often starts with small, intentional changes.

Writing about all of this in my blog has been a big piece of the puzzle for me and I don't see myself stopping anytime soon... so I hope you enjoy! Recently, my friend Jennifer and I decided to dive into another project that feels like a breath of fresh air for both of us: we started a podcast called "Folklore & Facts: Grandmas Getting to the Bottom of It."

Read more...

Who Am I Without Us? Rediscovering Myself After Loss

Who Am I Without Us? Rediscovering Myself After Loss
The blog post reflects on the journey of rediscovering oneself after the passing of a life-long partner. After nearly 40 years of shared life experiences, the author finds herself grappling with her identity as she transitions from being part of an "us" to being just "me." The feelings of being left half of a whole resonate deeply, underscoring the challenges that come with redefining roles and navigating life independently.

In this period of adjustment, the focus is on growth, acknowledging that life must continue moving forward despite the absence of a beloved partner. Embracing the values and lessons learned throughout their shared life, the author seeks to find a balance between holding onto cherished memories and making space for new growth. Essential to this process is maintaining her passion for natural wellness, which involves supporting healthy body systems and reducing toxin exposure—a philosophy reinforced by her shared journey with her partner.

Ultimately, the blog emphasizes that this journey is not about reinventing oneself but rather about evolving. It highlights the importance of taking small, intentional steps into the unknown while carrying forward the love and legacy built together. Through this process of rediscovery, the author conveys hope and resilience, encouraging others facing similar transitions to embrace their journey, acknowledging it’s okay to take time and feel unsteady while moving forward one step at a time.
Read more...




Hi! I'm AJ Flanagan.

 
Hey there! I’m a GenX empty-nester - and recent widow - who had a wake-up call about the hidden toxins in everyday products we used growing up. Our parents didn’t know, and honestly, we were clueless too. But now, I’m all about sharing the details and helping others kick those sneaky chemicals to the curb for a healthier, happier life. 🌿

Life threw us a curveball in 2018 when my amazing husband, Eric, was diagnosed with leukemia. And then a second type of cancer in 2023.  Supporting him through his treatments was challenging, but it also inspired us to make some positive changes. We embraced holistic wellness practices, worked to transform our home into a toxin-free sanctuary, and incorporated relaxation techniques like meditation, music therapy, and aromatherapy into our daily routine.

Caring for and supporting Eric deepened my commitment to living well. From choosing natural products and prioritizing nutritious foods to finding strength in vulnerability, we built a daily routine focused on positivity and wellness. 

I’m passionate about sharing our story, the lessons we learned, and the simple steps we took to enhance our overall well-being.


Creating a Nurturing Space Together

We focused on creating a nurturing environment where both of us could thrive. It was a process of resilience, love, and continuous learning that I'm determined to carry forward from here. I’m eager to share our experiences, the lessons we picked up along the way, and the small changes that made a big difference in our lives. Whether you’re looking to make minor adjustments or dive into a complete wellness transformation, I hope our story can inspire and support you on your own path.

Here’s to embracing change, supporting each other, and living our best lives—together! ✨

Contact

Copyrights © 2025 held by respective copyright holders, including AJ Flanagan.