It's easy to get mired in the negative. It's hard to not collapse under the weight of the world sometimes. There is bad news all around us, and yet another heated political season doesn't help. What I've learned is that Stupidity + Hatred = A Toxic, Terrifying Combination. … [Read more...] about Choosing Joy Among Sadness
family
Drunk Driving is a Parent’s Worst Nightmare
I sat in a church pew wearing an evergreen Laura Ashley ankle length dress with a black sash and shiny black flats. I sat among my teenage peers as we gulped but couldn't swallow the astonishment and anguish rising like pebbles of bile in our throats. We had to remind ourselves … [Read more...] about Drunk Driving is a Parent’s Worst Nightmare
Grins – Wordless Wednesday
The Little Boy Who Touched My Heart
He had vacant eyes. When any emotion crossed them it was in flickers of fear, rage, and shame. He didn't smile for a full four months. He never let anyone touch him and had no concept of the power of a simple, pure hug. His fits of rage came in bursts like a camera clicking on … [Read more...] about The Little Boy Who Touched My Heart
Christmas Decorating Intervention
Confession: I am addicted to Christmas decorations, especially cheap glass balls. But look what I made with them! Finally, I made something crafty instead of crappy. My house looks like the elves had fraternity rush here. There are bowls of all sorts - crystal, pewter, … [Read more...] about Christmas Decorating Intervention
Thanksgiving Thoughts
See those smiling boys? That is what I am thankful for. I'm also thankful for the man behind the lens. ;-) I'm afraid Thanksgiving has lost its wholesome sheen. Retailers have bastardized the holiday, making us more focused on door buster deals and spending money than spending … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Thoughts
Thanksgiving Sell Out
So much for Thanksgiving being the lone holiday that's not bastardized by consumerism. Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. I love the focus on food and family and friends. It's the one time of year we embrace cooking real food and sharing it with the people we love. … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Sell Out