Carry Me
These two pictures define the last few weeks for me. The first is something that I received in the mail. Notice how the stamp says, “Please do not bend,” and it has clearly been bent to fit inside my... Continue reading →
grief
Isabelle’s Stocking
My husband comes from an Italian family with many traditions. There are certain movies that are watched, foods that are always made, and a certain ornament that is always licked (EW!) each Christmas. My own family’s traditions are a bit... Continue reading →
Like a 6th Grader on the First Day of Middle School
Yesterday, I attended a daylong professional development filled with team building activities and group planning time. At the beginning of the day, one of the facilitators shared a quote from motivational speaker Karen Kaiser Clark. “Life is change. Growth is... Continue reading →
Being Thankful is a Choice
In years past, on Thanksgiving, I enjoyed many wonderful meals with family while we shared all of the things for which we were thankful. I can recall numerous childhood Thanksgivings surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Some were spent in... Continue reading →
Surviving a Trigger Day
Upon sitting down in church this morning, a woman sitting near us turned to me and asked, “Did you have your baby?” I forced a smile as my heart raced and responded, “ Yes.” She congratulated me and I thanked... Continue reading →
A Very Valuable Lesson
“How has your day been today?” asks a smiling girl at the beginning of my last class of the day. Her jeans are too small and have holes. I have a feeling that things are rough at home for her. ... Continue reading →
For All The Saints
November 1st has always been a day of celebration in our family. Not only is it All Saints’ Day, it is my sister’s birthday! This year, the first of November takes on a special meaning. As Catholics, on All Saints’... Continue reading →
Our First “Holiday”
Initially, when I thought about which days would likely be the most difficult after Isabelle passed away, her birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were on the top of my list. I never considered that Halloween might trigger some strong emotions. A... Continue reading →
A Mug in the Closet
Recently, I received my first baby shower invitation since losing my daughter. I am not angry about it. I am sure the sender was conflicted as to whether I would be offended from not getting an invite at all, or... Continue reading →
Cell Phones and a Roller Coaster Week
This morning I thought that I accidentally left my cell phone at home. Upon arriving at work, when I realized that it was missing from my purse, I had a mini panic attack. “How will I ever survive today without... Continue reading →