My inner voice has been re-crafting this blog for some time, stopping when my outer voice tells me no. Is it because I feel a bit of an imposter? Yes, my dad was an alcoholic, but my childhood was so good compared to many others. Is it my recognition that many of us have stories related … Continue reading My life and alcohol
Gratefulness
From lupus to dementia: the art of healing and acceptance
No, this isn't really about COVID. Although, having a loved one acquire breakthrough COVID, after already having it once, does have me wondering more about disease predisposition. In all the controversies of today, some believe positivity keeps all evils away: even COVID-19. What I know, is that it doesn't. For after all, whether a disease … Continue reading From lupus to dementia: the art of healing and acceptance
Moving on: out beyond
Today marks one week since our mom's Celebration of Life. It was beautiful, authentic and shared by almost seventy people who loved her dearly. As with dad, though perhaps for different reasons, this event was scheduled months after she died. And though everyone makes often personal decisions on whether or not or how to hold … Continue reading Moving on: out beyond
It must be said
I woke up this morning knowing I must write about this. Usually I feel the rush of words dictating my next blog at other times: during a walk, as I cycle to work, even while reading a book. Not this time. This is tough to write, a topic some may say best for intimate conversations. … Continue reading It must be said
The anniversary emotional rollercoaster
So many different anniversaries we note in these human lives we lead. We anticipate them, celebrate some and mourn others. We memorialize significant historical and celebratory events, the bad and good: D.Day, 9/11, the first pandemic lock down, the 1977 Blazer NBA win, February 14, 1859 Statehood. Some anniversaries remind us of accomplishments: we reminisce … Continue reading The anniversary emotional rollercoaster
A gift for Father’s Day
I haven’t before pitched My Music Man as a Father’s Day story, a gift to give a father or someone who’s missing a father or loves their own father. And yet, readers have told me my memoir is just that. Not that your father was like my father or that your relationship was like mine, … Continue reading A gift for Father’s Day
Pedaling between headstones
It's not like I woke up thinking yesterday would be the day to hang out in a cemetery. I did plan to take the day off, overwhelmed by stress related to work these past few weeks. A good day to take a hike, work in the yard, or take a bike ride. I miss commuting … Continue reading Pedaling between headstones
Sorrow, renewal and little altars
Earlier this week my friend asked me if she could share something she had been wanting to mention, but wasn't sure I was ready to hear. Yes, I replied. I'm game. I'm good. She reminded me that as part of the loss I have experienced recently, I have lost being anyone's daughter. Anyone on earth, … Continue reading Sorrow, renewal and little altars
Siblings: When the going gets tough…part 2
The other day was National Siblings Day. In years past I’ve shared a goofy picture, remarking on my place as only daughter in a family of five kids. Placed strategically in the middle. I write this blog with a bit of hesitation, as I know I am darn lucky to have the relationship I do … Continue reading Siblings: When the going gets tough…part 2
A circle is forever
Expensive jewelry has not been a big thing in my family. Our few sentimental pieces lack significant financial value. When my paternal grandmother (Who Who) died, as her youngest granddaughter and namesake, I inherited her jewelry box as determined by my older female cousins. Then at 21, living life simply and more interested in mountains … Continue reading A circle is forever
