Advice on love, life and surviving Valentine’s Day

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Dear Nancy, I’m a widow of five years and finally feel ready to date. My friends put me on a dating app and I realized quickly it’s not for me. Last weekend a few friends and I went skiing nearby and I met this really nice man. We talked in the ski lodge for over two hours and bought me a drink. He wasn’t wearing a ring and my friends felt he was really...

Becoming the Best U : Fining summertime memories

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question: Summer is my favorite season and yet I never seem to make the most of it. I feel like every year I turn around and it’s September and I’ve done nothing exciting or memorable. Any advice to make this summer a great one?  Rochelle – Philadelphia Answer: I understand Rochelle. I think most of us would say they let summer slip away. In the blink...

Becoming the Best U: Your questions about Mothers’ Day

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question: Mother’s Day is coming up and I need advice. My daughter, who lives nearby, just had her second child and I have no idea how to help her celebrate this wonderful holiday. My daughter isn’t one for chocolate or flowers. Any ideas? Sue – Philadelphia Answer: I agree with you, Sue, Mother’s Day is a wonderful holiday and its origin is based in Philadelphia!...

Becoming the Best U: Advice on spring cleaning, letting go of guilt

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question:  I decided to try writing a few New Year’s goals after my sister’s suggestion. Last November I broke up with my boyfriend of four years and every room in the house is a horrible reminder of him.  I also want to clean out the clutter in my house. I don’t know how to begin. My sister read your column and told me to write you for some advice.  Jocelyn,...

Becoming the Best U: Tips on navigating Valentine’s Day

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question: I’ve been dating this girl, and although I really like her, I don’t have the budget to take her out to a fancy restaurant for Valentine’s Day. Do you have any inexpensive ideas to let her know I care? Jim – Exton Answer: Good for you to not be pressured into spending money you don’t have at a fancy restaurant on Valentine’s Day! You’re...

Becoming the Best U: Christmas stress and finding a new normal

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question: Christmas is my least favorite holiday. My parents are divorced and both got remarried. My sister spends Christmas with her husband’s family. Me, I just want to get through the day. I hate the drama the comes with it all. Is it terrible if I just stay home and ignore the day? Jane – Berwyn Answer: You’re not alone. Although many people say...

Becoming the Best U: Advice on exercise, gifts and self care

By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question: I stopped exercising during Covid, and I want to get back into shape, but don’t know where to begin. Do you have any suggestions? Dana – West Chester Answer: I always tell my clients who are getting back into exercising to turn it into a social experience, so they look forward to it. Depending on your budget, physical limitations, and time allowance,...

Becoming the Best U

Editor’s Note: Nancy Plummer was a columnist for us some years back on personal development, but due to health issues was forced to take a sabbatical. We are delighted to announce her return on a monthly basis with a new format. By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times Question:  About a year ago, when I had a routine appointment at my primary doctor’s office, I noticed the staff and doctor...