When my children fight or argue - I never make them just kiss and make up. I never force them to say “sorry” or shake hands and go about their business. Instead, when they are at loggerheads, feelings are hurt, people are angry and frustrated - I make them stop and think. I ask them... Continue Reading →
Assorted boxes strewn across the living room floor, we picked up handfuls and passed them around as we finished. Some were old, faded papery black and white, others small, boxy, and colored as things were in the 70s. Still more screamed of hairspray, bad fashion choices, and loud vibrant colors. The sizes of the prints... Continue Reading →
The capacity of the human spirit to overcome obstacles is awe-inspiring. We rehabilitate our bodies, our property, our communities, and our minds in our neverending quest to move forward. But, do we ever really "get back to normal?" Years ago, I babysat a toddler. At some point during our relationship, his parents took him on... Continue Reading →
It's funny how a change in situation can dramatically change your priorities. Two months ago, I had a list of things I thought were essential. In my world - they were. Now - some of those things don't even register on my list of "very important"s anymore. Recalibrating to a new way of life, of... Continue Reading →
Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:4 There are stories in each crease, crevice, and line in an old face. There are years of happiness, regret, sorrow, wisdom, and triumph behind each watery eye. On the wall over the kitchen table in my... Continue Reading →
Birthday Breakfast In Bed I woke up that birthday morning, and my husband and children had gone out and gotten a few things for me. Things were tight at the time, so I had already implored my husband not to get me anything or at very least not go crazy - he’s a giver, so... Continue Reading →
"God is the shepherd in search of his lamb. His legs are scratched, his feet are sore and his eyes are burning. He scales the cliffs and traverses the fields. He explores the caves. He cups his hands to his mouth and calls into the canyon. And the name he calls is yours." from And... Continue Reading →
Those were the questions I would ask my children when they were itching to say something to someone during a conflict or tense situation. It was amazing to see their little minds cycling through the questions as they ticked off their intended response. Is it necessary? Did the comment have to be made? Was it... Continue Reading →
When my kids were small, they always wanted to help me do everything - brush my teeth, tie my shoe, clean up, cook - it didn't matter what the job was - we were in it together. I also have a cat now that, at the very least, wants to oversee my progress. Wouldn't it... Continue Reading →
I have always loved Christmas. It is a holiday which has been shrouded in awe, majesty, music, and love for as long as I can remember. Right around this time of year ten years ago, my mother had a stroke and eventually died. Since then, the holiday season has also been a time where I... Continue Reading →
I have much to do, my friends. And, while it may seem frivolous to take a walk in the woods when there is so much to do - I need it to clear my head. The lonesome sound of the quiet woods, the wind gently blowing the treetops, the leaves and acorns fluttering and plopping... Continue Reading →
I am 100% for that argument that we should put Humanity First, but I do not in any way, shape, or form believe that some of us are more human than others. That argument sounds very Animal Farm to me. That argument seems very much like it condones human ownership to me. The argument that some... Continue Reading →
