In high-stress scenarios, people typically react in one of four ways: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. My daughter fought through the adversity, immediately working to replace the tire. I found myself frozen, unsure and frightened by the speeding traffic and danger. Meanwhile, over the phone, my son, Andrew, took on a protective role from afar, his urgent shouts over the noise, ensuring we remained as safe as possible under the circumstances.
Read MoreFrom her earliest days, I aimed to strike a delicate balance as a parent, providing enough guidance to keep her safe while granting her the freedom to explore life's joys. Like many mother-daughter duos, we had our share of tumultuous times. There were moments she felt constrained, comparing her freedoms to those of her friends, while I stood firm, governed by a fierce desire to protect and nurture.
Read MoreIn a world that often demands we hustle through our days, finding moments of pure joy can seem like a quest for a hidden treasure. Yet, sometimes, this treasure lies not in grand achievements or milestones but in the simple delights that life offers. For me, this joy is captured perfectly in bubbles.
Read MoreAs the winter wind whispers through the trees and the world dons its snowy blanket, there’s something about the crisp, cold air that beckons the outdoors, inviting us to relive the joyous, unbridled fun of the past. Recently, a simple family gathering turned into an evening brimming with laughter, playful competition, and the kind of pure joy that you typically only see in children. It was a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to reconnect with our youthful spirit is a snowy hill, sleds, a snowboard, and the company of loved ones.
Read MoreAh, holidays! A time for joy, laughter, and ... potato peeling? Yes, you read that right. In our family, the Christmas holiday isn't complete without the legendary Potato Peel-Off, a tradition upheld by me, and my brothers Jeff and Greg for years, until my nephew Chase was added to the mix. And most recently, one that has now blossomed into a full-fledged family affair.
Read MoreGrief extends its reach beyond death. It touches the corners of our lives where dreams lay dormant, where paths were not taken, and where the life we envisioned remains but a whisper. This form of grief is subtle, often unacknowledged, yet it weighs heavily on the soul. It's the pang of regret for the career not pursued, the book not written, or the love not confessed. It's mourning for a version of life that exists only in the world of “what if.”
Read MoreThe holidays are not just about grand gestures and lavish celebrations. They are about the warmth of a shared laugh, the glow of a candle, the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal. It's in these simple pleasures that the magic of the season truly resides.
Read MoreThere's a certain magic in the way life unfolds its surprises, knitting together the most memorable stories of our lives. This Thanksgiving brought with it a tale that I will cherish. It was a day marked not just by gratitude but by a delightful surprise that would once again reshape our family landscape.
Read MoreThanksgiving ushers in a season of warmth, gratitude, and appreciation. It's a time to gather around tables filled with festive fare, sharing stories and laughter with loved ones. Yet, it's important to remember that not everyone shares the same cheerful experiences during these times. For some, this season may bring up feelings of loneliness, grief, or sadness.
Read MoreThere are moments in life so saturated with love and imagination that they seem destined to be unforgettable. In the gentle embrace of each evening, as the sun said its golden goodbyes, my children and I would gather for what I believed were such moments.
Read MoreLife is a lot like making a cup of coffee, full of unexpected spills, surprises, and moments that don't turn out quite as we planned. Recently, I embarked on a coffee making adventure that not only left my kitchen in chaos but also taught me valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of embracing life's unexpected twists.
Read MoreIt's a universal truth that as parents, we often underestimate the impact we have on our children's lives. We may not realize that they are not just observing our actions, but also absorbing the essence of who we are. Our gestures of love, kindness, and resilience are all these facets that leave an indelible mark on their beings.
Read MoreAs a parent, there are moments that fill your heart with immense pride and joy, and witnessing your child achieve significant milestones is one of those unforgettable experiences. Recently, I had the pleasure of witnessing my daughter take a giant leap forward in her life; buying her very first house.
Read MoreIn a world that often glorifies the busy hustle, bustle, and constant striving, we often find ourselves caught in a tangle of making things seem harder than they really need to be. What if we could unlock the power of simplicity and embrace the ease of a relaxed Sunday morning? Every time I push my grand daughter in her swing, I’m reminded to slow down, stop rushing, worry less, and trust more.
Read MoreOut of all the family trips, my favorite by far was out last trip together in August of 2016. Along with my Mom and Dad, all four siblings were able to make the trek out to California for my nieces wedding.
Read More“Nothing happens until you decide. Make a decision and watch your life move forward,” - Oprah Winfrey. I don’t know about you, but I often find myself in a quandary over an important decision.
Read MoreRecently, my first grand child turned one. How is that even possible? I swear it was just yesterday my son was having his first birthday, wasn’t it?
Read More“I hate being sick, I feel like a superhero with no powers.” – Unknown
How’s your mood when you’ve been feeling sick and under the weather? Recently, I’ve been dealing with a nasty little cold bug that’s been hanging on for dear life.
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