Encouragement From a Kleenex Box

I don’t know about you, but sometimes it’s difficult to stay motivated and encouraged. Whether it’s just the day-to-day stuff, or something more significant, it’s nice to know someone believes in us. My inner voice has not always been my best friend. It was always...

Are You a Jackie or a Madison?

Before we get started, I'd like to introduce you to our two dogs, Jackie and Madison. Sisters. Australian shepherd mixes. Adopted from the animal shelter in 2014. Meet Jackie. She's the extrovert—expressive, friendly, outgoing. Every visitor is an instant friend. No...

Getting Back to Something

In the last month I’ve written 1,102 words. Not my usual 3-5k a week. Like many others, I’m finding it hard to write. Except in my journal. I write long entries each night where I complain. Share my anxiety. And then I list the things I’m thankful for. I’ve never...

The Tale of Four Queens

When we moved into our home back in June 2015, two majestic Queen Palms stood sentry in the front yard. Next to them was a tiny oak tree, kindly deposited by a bird. Two smaller Queen palms stood tall in the backyard. I’d never owned a house with palm trees and it...

Birthday Week

Photo by Michelle Jackson This past week has been filled with emotional memories. Memories of three births, spanning over sixteen years, landing only five days apart. Between February 17 and February 22, all three of my children were born. If they’d stuck with their...