I remember giving advice to my eldest brother, Roger, on his parenting style. He laughed at me and remarked, “Wait until you have your own children.” Then I had my own children. My other brother, Dan, tried to give me … Continue reading
I guessed her age to be 17. She had dark brown, shoulder-length hair, and tattoos on both forearms. She seemed a bit standoffish. She may have been shy. We exchanged pleasantries but not much more. She was in my life … Continue reading
Over a year ago, my 7-month-old granddaughter passed away quietly in her sleep. Since that horrific day, the support of family, friends, neighbours, and acquaintances has been incredible. They’ve offered food, shoulders to cry on, and kind words. And I … Continue reading
I squeezed her chunky thighs. I breathed in her lavender scent. I snuggled into her neck. I brushed against her soft hair. I played peek-a-boo with her blankie. I returned her to her grandma. I smiled to mask my pain. … Continue reading
When my granddaughter was first born, I bought a bike carrier* to pull her along behind me as I biked the streets. It worked great…in theory. I live in the country and there are many, many rolling hills. It was too … Continue reading
I was there … When your head passed through the birth canal and you crowned When you splashed the tub water during your bath time When you cooed, gurgled, and babbled When you smiled at me from across the room … Continue reading
The Sacrament of Confirmation When I was 10 years old, I attended a retreat with my class to my teacher’s home on the lake. I remember the steep driveway, the open-concept house with a railing overlooking the living area. It … Continue reading
My plans aren’t your plans, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my plans than your plans (Isaiah 55 CEB). … Continue reading
A Poem Bright, clear, and alert Moon-eyed Your irises still changing hue A shade of gray, maybe brown Enchanting and other-worldly Soulful Watchful You appear to see through me Imploring Penetrating Piercing You know something I don’t Astute Intelligent Mischievous … Continue reading
How having less time can make you more productive The college I work at gave us a bonus of time off over the Christmas holidays. This meant hours of time to catch up on all the writing that I wanted … Continue reading