Certain slices of life mamas never forget. Like the early days and weeks after bringing new babies home from the hospital. I especially remember the part their grandma played. Each time my mama showed up at just the right time. Brought all the right treats. Did all the right things. … [Read more...] about Receiving the Baton
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Learning to Lament
It was an ordinary Tuesday. As I made my way into the choir room, I remember seeing her older brother pacing outside the school office, waiting for her to be released from class. My childhood friend’s mother had died after a long illness when we were seniors in high school. I knew her mother … [Read more...] about Learning to Lament
Tweaking Tradition, Part 1
Tradition is not a neutral word. Like college football, or Jesus, or anything political, it evokes a strong emotion, reflecting how traditions have played out in our lives. I, too, have had a love-hate relationship with traditions over the past few years. The following article was first … [Read more...] about Tweaking Tradition, Part 1
Eyes for the Invisible
Late last week I finally shopped for a Father’s Day card. As I was checking out what was left on the racks, a woman about my mother’s age came up behind me. The lady reached for a card, frowned, and put back card after card. I assumed she couldn’t find the sentiment she was looking for. Then I … [Read more...] about Eyes for the Invisible
Weeds and Warnings, Part I
This week I am preparing for a speaking event and next week I will be at the Cleveland Clinic for a heart check. So I am taking this opportunity to post a piece that was selected and originally appeared on the Kindred Mom website a few weeks ago. It tells the story of my own disease, … [Read more...] about Weeds and Warnings, Part I
The Safe Center
About a year and a half ago, a month after my pacemaker/internal defibrillator was installed, my husband was doing some yard work. Knowing I couldn’t do much actual work, I instead assumed the role of boss. When he got ready to plant a couple of trees we had purchased, I asked him to plant them … [Read more...] about The Safe Center