To any reading this who are victims, to those who have faced impossible circumstances and devastating trials: I just want to say how proud I am of you. You are so brave. You did whatever you could to survive. What happened to you is not okay. That friend should not have betrayed you. That family … Continue reading To Whom It May Concern
childhood
In Loving Memory
Last weekend my sister and I took a quick trip to Seattle to see family and attend a memorial for our Grandma Ries. Rosemary’s story was often a mystery to us. I’ve been told her life was not an easy one. I’ve always wondered why she disliked and avoided having her picture taken. I feel … Continue reading In Loving Memory
Taking Time to Unpack Trauma
Just because my trauma looks different than yours, doesn’t mean it’s not real. I might be opening a can of worms… but I think it might be necessary. I’ve been toting around some heavy emotional baggage for decades. Various forms of abuse, even if small and spread out, were compounded throughout my childhood and beyond, … Continue reading Taking Time to Unpack Trauma
Traditions
I'm a big fan of traditions, especially during the Christmas season. There's a sense of familiarity every year when we take time to carry on the traditions we love. Here are some of my favorites: Setting up our Christmas tree (before Thanksgiving) Ornaments given to each person on Thanksgiving (started by my Grandma) Hot cocoa … Continue reading Traditions
My Essential Self
This blog has been in my drafts folder for at least six months. Today seemed like a good day to finish it. I am so grateful to Shauna Niequist for teaching me this phrase: "my essential self." I first read it in her book, Present Over Perfect, toward the end of 2017. I see it … Continue reading My Essential Self
My Race to Run 