As I approach my 42nd birthday this week, I do so as a survivor of congenital heart disease, depression, and anxiety. I am glad to be alive for if my suicide attempt twenty-six years ago had been successful, I would have missed my sisters’ weddings, the birth of their children, meaningful friendships, and life-changing theatreContinue reading “42 and Counting: Why I’m Celebrating Another Year”
Tag Archives: family
Two Sisters – Two Variants of Feminism
My older sister and I once got into a disagreement about my inclination to buy a doll dressed in a pretty dress rather than one in work attire, in the middle of a beloved theme park. Four years of age separated us but our perspectives on the term “female” widened the relationship gap forContinue reading “Two Sisters – Two Variants of Feminism”
Sins of My Ancestors
As I wonder about the possible sins of my ancestors, I pay closer attention to my own prejudices and biases.
Mourning My Sister Through Writing
I’ve stated many times that the words I choose matter. I believe that I write because my spirit craves to do so. Sometimes the words flow effortlessly and other times it’s not just the pen that runs dry. I know firsthand that writing can work as a healthy outlet during times of emotional or spiritualContinue reading “Mourning My Sister Through Writing”
Day Forty-Seven of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey
DAY 47: Remembering my Irish Immigrants My three times great-grandfather died 116 years ago today from “cancer of the stomach” (a direct quote from a letter written by his wife to her mother-in-law). Ever since I learned about him and his wife immigrating to America from Ireland, I’ve been fascinated with their story. Part ofContinue reading “Day Forty-Seven of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey”
Day Forty-Six of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey
Day 46 of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey: Deflating the Holiday Spirit – I enjoy holiday decor, with one overwhelming exception.
Day Thirty-Three of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey: Super Girls
DAY 33: Sunday SoulJourn – Super Girls I wholly believe that spirits recognize their kin. Paths cross over the course of a hectic and fast-paced life as we maneuver around obstacles and race towards the finish line that keeps moving. I am fortunate to know many super women whose paths crossed mine at some pointContinue reading “Day Thirty-Three of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey: Super Girls”
Day Eighteen of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey
DAY 18: A Genealogy Clue My interest in genealogy research continues to inspire me. Today was no different. I learned more information about a possible clue in finding our rumored Native American lineage: a name passed down from my great grandmother that turns out to be a city in Northern Michigan. I immediately went intoContinue reading “Day Eighteen of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey”
Day Three of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey
Day Three: Imagination Inspiration announced its presence as I tucked my young niece in to bed tonight. I read her a story, and she returned the favor. Before we said prayers, she grabbed her fake phone and called her parents to say goodnight. I listened to the “conversation” and grinned. She’s a storyteller, this one,Continue reading “Day Three of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey”
Day Two of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey
DAY TWO: A Grand Godmother I went scouring through old photos albums tonight, looking for a picture from when I journeyed with friends to see the Pope speak in Denver, CO back in 1993. Instead, I stumbled upon a photo much more precious and timely – my grandmother/godmother with me on the day of myContinue reading “Day Two of the 111 Day Writer’s Journey”
