Developmental psychologist, Erik Erikson, is quoted as saying, “Life doesn't make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.” It’s often the small things; a touch, a listening ear, a smile, a small act of caring, that have the ability to turn a life... Continue Reading →
You Can’t Please Everyone: Confessions of a Lifelong People Pleaser
I have been a people pleaser for as long as I can remember, but it wasn't until recently I realized how deeply ingrained this trait is in my life. My family relocated to the east coast for my husband's job and we've been searching for a new place of worship. During this search I found myself trying to convince... Continue Reading →
Waiting
Tears flow down They fall like the rain There's no end to my sorrow and pain Too many nights I'm crying for You There's just nothing left for me to do I'm reaching out I just need a touch from You Hope breaks through the cracks in the wall I've built around my bleeding heart Starting to see... Continue Reading →
How to be a Warrior-Wife
Everyone who has entered into the bond of marriage knows -- marriage is difficult! Life has a way of kicking the crap out of you when you least expect it, and learning how to navigate these hard times with a significant other can be tricky, especially if you don’t put the time and effort into... Continue Reading →
Note to Self: I choose my husband
Note to self: As a wife I have the opportunity to create a home that either supports or crushes my husband. I can make our house a haven of rest and peace, or a place of anxiety, struggle, dissension. I can choose to be affirming or critical. I can teach my children to honor and... Continue Reading →
Taking Off the Mask
Wearing a mask brings certain comforts, but it also may hinder our personal growth. As long as we wear the mask we don’t have to deal with the underlying problem. But when we are truly able to confront the truth about ourselves we will find true freedom. We can find healing.
What to (not) Expect When Adopting
"…she's my mom and I love her." -my son, age 17 The day we met our little boy he'd already experienced more trauma, neglect and abuse than most grownups will in a lifetime. When he rounded the corner on our first meeting I fell in love instantly. His little twelve-year-old face was adorable and smiley. (You can read more... Continue Reading →
Our Responsibility to Life
I’ve briefly shared about our journey with foster care and adoption in Two Prayers Answered, but our complete story has never been told. Someday. Maybe. Today I'll be sharing some information...some food for thought...and also challenging you – are you ready? Here's a short history lesson about National Adoption Month: In 1976 Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis announced... Continue Reading →
What Coffee Means to Me
Drinking coffee in our family is a bonding experience. There are heaps of positive (mushy, gushy) emotions attached to the smells, sounds and taste of freshly brewed coffee. All of my fondest memories of childhood are filled with the delectable, robust, savory, satisfying (I could go on) aroma of brewing coffee. I remember a family reunion in Denver when I was... Continue Reading →
Note to Self: Set Boundaries
I want to say YES to everyone. I want to be available all the time. I feel guilty when I miss a phone call, or cannot respond to texts or emails right away. I want to be available 24/7 to provide everything you need or want. But, I can't. It's just not possible. STOP! Stop trying to be everything for... Continue Reading →