I love the ocean. It has always brought me peace. Grief is best described as coming in waves like an ocean. Somedays there are tidal waves and others calm waters. Grief is not an obstacle. It is not something to overcome. As time passes, I can see the obstacles. We all have choices on how…
I hope you dance…
Are you ready? Ready for what you ask? Most times I believe we are never truly “ready” for anything. Many young adults are heading off to college this month. Worry sets in as parents must let go of the child they spent 18 years teaching to have wings. Will they make it to class? Are…
How strong is your heart?
As the sun rises this day, I received a text from my better half, who is by his Mother’s side along with his brother. She is undergoing open heart surgery this morning. The photo above is of the private waiting room they are in as the operation begins. The room was dedicated by someone in…
Gratitude changes everything…
I am strong, because I have been weak. I am fearless, because I have been afraid. I am wise, because I have been foolish. I am blind, because I have faith. I am loved, because He first loved me. I am grateful, because of eternal life. MamaC I hear people say that God doesn’t give…
Happy 21st Birthday!
Today is Connor’s 21st birthday! We will be celebrating in Texas where he was born on a 100 degree day August 1st, 1995 at 2am. The air conditioning was out in the hospital room. I think it was a clever incentive to get me up and walking out of there, as soon as possible. Many…
Even in the darkest of night, the sun will rise again…Les Miserables
Grief has changed my life. It has made me appreciate each day we live. It has made my heart and soul feel unimaginable pain. Each day I have to consciously push forward and say “NO” to sadness. I know our loved ones would not want us to dwell in constant suffering. Grief is real, there…
Firecracker! Firecracker! Boom Boom Boom…
A question was placed before our children in the form of the following: Who do you believe suffered more from the loss of your brother…birth siblings or adopted siblings? Indeed, questions such as these were required to complete a year long process of paperwork to close out what already seemed like an eternity of grief.…
We keep this love in a photograph…
The day of our son’s funeral was surreal. His death was unexpected. A tragic accident. During the planning of the funeral and all of the chaos my mind was numb. I looked to those around us for help planning a funeral, choosing flowers, writing an obituary, for our 19-year-old son that was thriving his first…
Life, loss & love…
Today begins a weekend at Camp Piasa for members of Chosen to Shine non-profit. Our mission is to give young adults hope for their future through faith, fellowship, music and motivation with the opportunity to serve others, leaving everyone in the knowledge that they matter and are CHOSEN TO SHINE! Last year’s camp was held…
Look up and ponder what’s in your heart…
Graduation is around the corner. Are you anticipating and maybe even apprehensive about your child leaving for college in only a few short weeks? Weren’t they just in kindergarten? How did this happen so quickly?! When we were looking at different schools, the larger ones worried me. Would he make it to class in time?…
Climb every mountain…
Cleaning under the couch cushions I saw something shiny peeking out of a side crevice. I pulled out a silver ink pen and wondered where such a nice pen came from. It didn’t look familiar at first. As most would, I immediately pressed the top of the pen to see if it would write. The…
What I would tell him…
Embrace the flow, the splendor, and the dance of life. This day was created for you – Cherish it. Shine your light in all that you do! Live your life with passion, purpose, respect and integrity. You are here for a reason. Make today count through all it’s surprises and challenges. Face these challenges with…