 Carol Mahoney, 53, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and now lives in Livermore, California. While her body was born in a warm, semi-tropical climate, her soul was born in the desert.
Where did I grow up, and what did I like/dislike about it?
I grew up in the state of Louisiana in the U.S. I really liked that we had a French influence and a quirky set of traditions that were unlike other places in the U.S. I regret that French culture was discouraged when I was growing up, and I worry that many parts of the world are trying to make people lose touch with their heritage.
What is your favorite time of year and why?
I love summer! I know it’s hot, but the days are long, which means I get to be outside for longer. I also love the sounds of summer, with kids playing sports or on the playground, people gathering for picnics, birds calling overhead, and music playing outside.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
When I’m not outside, I love to quilt! My favorite part of quilting is the design, but I also love that moment when I put in the last stitch. The next best moment is presenting the quilt to the person for whom it was made.
What are you most afraid of?
Don’t laugh… I sat with this for a long time before I came up with this answer. I am most afraid of discomfort – both physical and emotional. When I dig deep into what motivates me or holds me back, I find that discomfort is at the base of it. I think this is really game-changing for me the next time I hesitate. It took some serious inertia for me to lead my first ramble, but I’m in a year of forcing myself out of my comfort zone. If I’m successful, I’ll go on a trip abroad without my family (I love my “emotional support humans” to be near me).
What are you most looking forward to?
Each year, I pick a word or theme for the year. 2024 was “Release” (I cleaned out a lot), and 2025 is “Intrepid” because I am trying to experience life outside the fears that hold me back. Instead of saying to myself, “You can’t,” I’m working on accepting that it’s okay for me to acknowledge my fear and encourage myself to find a workaround—especially if it means I get to experience things that bring me joy or broaden my horizons.
What was the best, most inspiring day of your life?
One year, a terrible snowstorm closed the interstate highway on Christmas Eve, and I was diverted to stay in one of the churches in the adjacent small town (there was no room at the Inn – seriously, I couldn’t make this up if Hallmark paid me). The townspeople brought blankets, food, drinks, books, movies, and toiletries from their homes until all the weary travelers had everything they needed. Through their generosity toward perfect strangers, I felt deeply cared for and was in awe of what the smallest action can do. It was the best Christmas I’ve ever spent.
READ MORE > Rambler Profiles, Rambler Cafe Blog
Leave a comment