Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Viva.
50-something women get hobbies
I love decorating - always have. The women of my family were good at many things especially cooking, shopping, and decorating. When we were little kids, we just had to go to school and we got to free-load and enjoy all the delicious meals and holiday magic that our mothers created all throughout the year. Year after year, until that horrible day: Graduation. Oh no! Now I'm officially an adult and I'm expected to know everything these amazing Divas know. Huh? Me? So I embarked on the quest of the job and apartment. I had a few good moments in my 20s. My little studio apartment in Hyde Park was thrifto-cute. My townhouse in North Tampa with my roommate Tammy was stylish and welcoming enough for visitors. My tiny pad in Keansburg, New Jersey was more affordable than glamourous, but definitely qualified the word "efficiency". Yet in all my 50 plus years of living here or there or anywhere, I've never really had a "home" that I could say was decorated to perfection.
By Shanon Angermeyer Norman4 months ago in Viva
Finding your groove in the 50s
How come we don't have a show on television called 50-somethings? There are plenty of shows with the kiddies as stars, or the teens as stars, or the 20 and 30-somethings as stars. They even have movies and shows for the silver haired folks in their 60s and up club. What about the 50-somethings? Where's our movie or show? When I was younger I had all kinds of guidance. The Breakfast Club helped me through high school. Sex in the City helped me through my 20s. Comic books and movies helped me through the 30s and 40s. Now what? Whose representing the 50-somethings journey and pathways? I feel like I have no guidance. In a way, I like that. I'm too old to be listening to a drill sergeant or condescended to as if I haven't been around the block. Yet, there's still a piece of me that is uneasy and insecure about navigating on this new territory commonly called "over the hill" or "after the change". Big changes, big accomplishments, yet not much art or literature for guidance or reference as if the 50-somethings are in unfamiliar living situations. I trust my own instincts and judgements most of the time, but I do feel a discomfort of not having more movies and books to use as a reference for this phase/chapter of my aging experience.
By Shanon Angermeyer Norman4 months ago in Viva
How to Build a Successful Career in the Global Maritime Industry
Ever dreamt of a career that goes beyond the office desk and stretches across oceans? The global maritime industry offers just that, quite literally too! It’s a very dynamic field, and the skills you acquire can actually take you anywhere from high-tech ships to bustling international ports in destinations across the world. If you are ready to set sail on this career path, here are some practical (and inspiring) ways to make it happen.
By Rochell Megan4 months ago in Viva
Penis Envy changed in the 70s
Did you think that Frued was a lunatic or just a sexist male chauvenist pig? Did you ever consider that as a woman you might have "penis envy" and that if you had been born with a penis all of the horrors of being a woman might never have occurred? I did. I thought maybe if I just had a penis I wouldn't be subjected to objectification, being considered property, or the disrespect that comes from those who still want to punish Eve's daughters just for having a vagina. Not only was I proud that I bore a son instead of an evil girl, I finally had my own personal penis. Or so I thought. But really it's not about the penis at all. Nope. It's not about the vagina either. This whole sexist thing is just a sado-masochistic game that both sexes have been playing since before 1908 when Freud published his "Penis Envy" theory.
By Shanon Angermeyer Norman4 months ago in Viva
Grumpy Old Lady Angry at the Economy
I'm frustrated as hell today. Grumpy and snarky. I didn't have to fight the cat to get to the coffee machine, but I couldn't find a pair of pants quick enough, and when I organized the coffee station yesterday I forgot where the filters were. By the time I sat down with my coffee I was already grumpy. The other day my ex-husband/current roommate stood at the coffee station (that cost $400 and I'm making monthly payments on) as if he owned it (because he's a bully who is three times bigger than me and he knows niether of us want to go to jail) and forced me to ask him if I could get myself a cup of coffee (because he was in my f'n way) so I did while I shot him daggers from my eyes and poured the hot coffee into my cup when I really wanted to smash the glass pot against his skull. Whoever said I'm not a good actress, lied. He gets his jollies off by demeaning me with that passive-aggressive behavior. Does it in regards to the toilet also which is why I sometimes have to leak or poo in my own personal bucket toilet.
By Shanon Angermeyer Norman4 months ago in Viva
How to Find Kandy's Hidden Trails
People commonly think of Kandy as having a lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and city markets. Many people don't know that there are mountain trails and wooded roads just outside of town that present a different picture of central Sri Lanka. These paths aren't busy, so you can take your time and enjoy the fresh air and lush hills. Let us show you how to find these hidden trails in Kandy.
By ameliarosanna4 months ago in Viva
Why Riverside Stays Offer a More Authentic Bangkok Experience
Why do seasoned travellers bypass modern Bangkok's glittering malls? Because to truly understand the city's spirit, you must follow its past. While areas like Sukhumvit have a fast, modern energy, Bangkok's heart and history stay rooted along the Chao Phraya River. Choosing a riverside stay is a decision to step directly into the city's rich heritage and immerse yourself in the genuine, classic rhythm of Thai culture.
By Aurora Gianna4 months ago in Viva
What to Consider When Choosing a Tokyo Hotel for a Business Trip
Navigating Tokyo for a business trip can be as exhilarating as it is demanding. The city's sheer scale, combined with its traditional etiquette and cutting-edge modernity, means choosing the right accommodation isn't just about comfort; it's about strategic advantage. A well-selected hotel can be a sanctuary of productivity and peace, significantly impacting the success of your professional journey.
By Rochell Megan4 months ago in Viva
