No. I have always hated saying it to people, especially those who might judge the essence of who I am inaccurately, as a result. Ultimately, it’s always run counter to my character to disappoint. But this past weekend, I did just that. I said “no” to someone. I said “no” to giving more than I … Continue reading On saying “NO”
How a Facebook Mom’s Group, Capital Iron, and an Embarrassing Moment Made me Feel Closer to my Community
So, initially, I wasn’t going to share this story because it’s fairly humiliating. But, I’m swallowing my pride and sharing it for the following three reasons: We all love that feeling we get when we hear stories that showcase human beings being benevolent to one another. It just makes us feel good about the world … Continue reading How a Facebook Mom’s Group, Capital Iron, and an Embarrassing Moment Made me Feel Closer to my Community
A Visit with Santa and a Generous Invitation
It was 9:16 am, Frank Sinatra’s Christmas album was playing in the background, and both of my children, smiling faces illuminated by the late November morning sun, were bundled and strapped in the back of our vehicle as we cruised down the highway on our way to beat the crowds and meet Santa. My husband … Continue reading A Visit with Santa and a Generous Invitation
How Empathy Leads the Way for the Transformation from Victimization to Resiliency
Just this morning, I had a realization that stopped me in my tracks. It was one of those “Aha” Oprah-moments that sent a jolt of electric energy from the top of my head to the tips of my toes. It’s a very simple concept, but it’s caused a dramatic paradigm shift in the way I … Continue reading How Empathy Leads the Way for the Transformation from Victimization to Resiliency
Tantrums, Toddlers, Torrential Rain: How One Mom’s Decision Paid-it-Forward
Just the other day, as the children in my household pressed pause on their play to catch up on some much-needed rest, I rested an elbow on the smooth surface of the kitchen table, my hand cupping the ceramic promise of wakefulness. I inhaled the delicious moment of silence for a few extra seconds before … Continue reading Tantrums, Toddlers, Torrential Rain: How One Mom’s Decision Paid-it-Forward
The Unexpected Detour That Landed Me Exactly Where I Was Supposed to Be
Last week, I experienced an unbelievable moment that will stay in my heart forever. Dampness permeated the air that morning. As I hurried out the front door of my house and onto the driveway, I felt the impact of a big, fat raindrop on my forehead. The cold licked at the back of my throat … Continue reading The Unexpected Detour That Landed Me Exactly Where I Was Supposed to Be
Handfuls of Hope
“Why would God make me this way?” he threw his hands up exasperated, standing in the middle of the grocery aisle as she stood beside him. My 84-year-old friend, Kate, a devout Christian, had spotted Sam immediately upon entering the grocery store that day, hunched over as he squinted at the ingredients on a box … Continue reading Handfuls of Hope