It breaks my heart daily that there are children in the United States who need our protection. Children face abuse and hunger and experience the worst of humanity in their gentle souls. Try as we might to protect them, it seems to never be enough. Advocating for the safety and … [Read more...] about Giving Kids a Shot@Life In America and Beyond
children
Snow Day Home School
I joked yesterday that I was going to homeschool my kids if this week were another snow day(s) bust. They've had one and a half days of school in the last 10 days. Ice and snow are North Carolina's kryptonite. We are expecting more snow tonight and tomorrow so I … [Read more...] about Snow Day Home School
Snow Days -At Home and Helping
There's a hushed tranqulity that blankets us as the snow blankets the park in front of our house. The gray green dying grass is revitalized by a cloak of snow. It's oddly serene and calm. Even my sons have stopped bickering for the moment, both huddled under the comfort of their … [Read more...] about Snow Days -At Home and Helping
All Winter in a Day
Ray Bradbury wrote All Summer in a Day, a book that has haunted me since I first read it as a kid. It's the penultimate story of bullying and life as an outsider. I've sympathized with Margot, the main character, and continue to feel pangs of the pain and injustice Bradbury … [Read more...] about All Winter in a Day
The Everydayness of Things
We measure life in milestones. Sometimes I think it's the unmeasured moments that tell a better story. We snap photos of birthdays, graduations, weddings, firsts of all kinds. Yet it's in the everyday moments that our photos color a richer story. Sure, I line up my boys in their … [Read more...] about The Everydayness of Things
I Don’t Care What My School’s Grade Is
Spotted at a school I visited in Kampala, Uganda. They get it. We should, too. Thursdays are my favorite day of the week. I get to spend time in Deal's fourth grade class to help with writing. I get hugs and singsong accolades before I even step over the threshold. Even my dog … [Read more...] about I Don’t Care What My School’s Grade Is
Measly Measles?
I have faith in science. I trust my medical professionals. I don't succumb to conspiracy theories. I believe in vaccines. I spent ten years volunteering with pediatric bone marrow transplant patients. They ranged in age from just a few months to 17. All of those kids had … [Read more...] about Measly Measles?