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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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
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
Fruitful Valleys
In my childhood, it was reserved for the back of funeral cards. Over the past 26 months, the 23rd psalm has breathed life-giving comfort into me. Especially the part about being in the valley. Since first hearing the words "heart failure," my husband and I have felt as if we've bought a house in the … [Read more...] about Fruitful Valleys