There are four school age boys romping on the slip n slide as I write. They are squealing and laughing and frolicking in a pure embodiment of summer glee. There are no electronic gadgets, no batteries, no gizmos. These boys, two of whom are mine and two whom I love as family, are … [Read more...] about I love Independence Day.
America
Mothers of Intention – Read it.
I just want to raise sons who don't grow up to be assholes. I want my sons to be protectors of the vulnerable, advocates for the disenfranchised, friends to the haves and have-nots. I want them to understand that their vote is their voice and remaining silent isn't an option. … [Read more...] about Mothers of Intention – Read it.
Poverty Plays by Different Rules
Usually by this time of night when I sit down at my desk to write, my head hurts. But tonight, my heart aches. I get lots of crap in my inbox. Loads of trolls find the time to rant anonymously about things I've written. I'm all for polite, thoughtful discourse and believe we … [Read more...] about Poverty Plays by Different Rules
Thank you, Teachers
My friend Becky posted this video to Facebook, and I was so moved I had to post it here. Teachers in this country get a bad deal all around. The joy and smile of a child can only carry you so far. Sure, the sense of accomplishment is priceless, but that kid's warm fuzzies … [Read more...] about Thank you, Teachers
Call of Duty
Target is good for a lot of stuff. What I didn't expect to find was a life lesson. We are such frequent fliers at a Target near our house that the workers know us by name and ask of the boys' whereabouts when they are not underfoot. I often come in with a travel mug of … [Read more...] about Call of Duty
Vernacular of Violence
I find myself simultaneously speechless and overflowing with so much to say. I just had to write. Something. I wrote this post almost as an exercise in capturing my stream of consciousness. Today when I led a writer's workshop for Bird's second grade class, a student asked me a … [Read more...] about Vernacular of Violence
I voted. 10 Minutes.
Banish any thoughts of being too busy to vote. This is not exercise we're talking about here. I don't want to hear your sorry excuses. Your boss, by law, has to give you time off to vote. Polls are open until 7:30 PM (in North Carolina). Don't dilly dally. This is not something … [Read more...] about I voted. 10 Minutes.