This is the third in this series. Sometimes the difference between unbearable heartache and simple gratitude is solely a change in attitude. When our oldest was a toddler and we were expecting our second child, one of my co-workers (a mother of 7 adult children) told me two things: First, your children will bring you… Continue reading Gifts from our children: The gift of motherhood

This is the second in this series on gifts we receive as parents, those gifts that change us and make us better people. Growing up, I remember warm embraces with my mother. I remember her touch, her smile, the age-spots on her hands. I remember her wedding ring, her painful feet, her forearm where I… Continue reading Gifts from our children: The gift of gratitude

As most Moms know, the value of the gifts we receive from our children has nothing to do with money. In fact, the most precious cost nothing in terms of currency. There are the traditional handprint turkeys, hand-drawn pictures, decorated photo frames, hugs, kisses, odd and charming breakfasts in bed. When I was little, we… Continue reading Gifts from our children: The gift of a voice

Since day one, I’ve always known where I stood with Charlie. One of the most empathetic people I’ve ever known, Charlie can usually read people around him when he wants to, and, if I’m sad or upset, he usually knows and goes out of his way to give me a hug, offer a hand or… Continue reading “How do you like that, Mrs. No Head!?”

Rewritten and reposted from NOVEMBER 23, 2016 Always one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving was unique in our culture. It was the last non-shopping major holiday, focused solely on family, friends, food and awkwardness. It was great. It brought together all the characters necessary for a great story. And food. The commercialism is creeping in,… Continue reading I Wish for You a Memory