Image by Smiles by Shay We’re now a year into this pandemic, but I often feel like it just began. At the same time, it also feels like this madness started a lifetime ago. Anyone else experiencing this conundrum? As a highly sensitive person (HSP), I feel like I’m still reeling from all that unfolded... Continue Reading →
Dear Husband, You Loved Me First
Originally published in Her View From Home. When we first met, I was timid. You were animated. I was insecure. You were confident. I saw the gray, which brought uncertainty. You viewed everything clear-cut in black and white, which allowed you to be unwaveringly sure of us. Right from the start. If I were to... Continue Reading →
The Curves I Gained Becoming Your Mom Are Worth Every Ounce
Originally published in Her View From Home. I used to be fit and thin, but then I became a mom. I used to go running for the fun of it, often spur of the moment with my favorite tunes playing in my earbuds. Now if I want to go for a run, there’s nothing spontaneous... Continue Reading →
The Importance of Encouraging Others Often and Praising Yourself Just As Much
"I shouldn’t have to beg for a compliment!” I finally blurt out as tears quickly form and begin threatening their escape. My friend stares at me in surprise. I had just finished praising her for her remarkably quick return to her pre-pregnancy size. She looked great, and I wanted her to know it. I half-expected... Continue Reading →
Tired of Broken New Year’s Resolutions? Try Making a Vision Board
There was a time when I would naively make big, lofty New Year’s resolutions, only to break them all just a few weeks into the new year. You know the kind: work out every day, eat super healthy, stop doing this and start doing that. The first couple weeks are usually pretty great! I’m following... Continue Reading →
I Remember What it Felt Like to be Single and Wishing For Love
Originally published in Her View From Home. My husband and I take our seats at a table as our waiter welcomes us. Pleasantries are exchanged and our drinks ordered. Once the waiter leaves our table, I glance around the small, quiet café. I enjoy our occasional kid-free lunch dates where we can sit and talk... Continue Reading →
Dear Late Bloomer, You Have Nothing to Prove
Originally published in Her View From Home. “That went well!” My husband says as we get in the car to head back home after our first small group meeting at church. “Yeah, I guess . . .” My voice trails off as I think back on the meeting. It was anything but fun in my... Continue Reading →
‘Tis the Season for Hallmark Romance and Video Game Marathons
Originally published as "Bring on the Hallmark Movies - Christmastime is Here!" in Her View From Home. There was a time when I boycotted everything romance. It was just easier that way. I was single at the time so watching sappy romances only made me lonelier for my own prince charming. There was also a... Continue Reading →
Little Drummer Boy: So To Honor Him
The week after Thanksgiving and Christmas are always difficult for me. The joyful busyness of traveling to see family somehow feels so long ago. The story-telling and laughter fade into distant memories as I muster up enough strength to get back into my normal routine. I’m on autopilot as I catch up on laundry and... Continue Reading →
Freedom from Postpartum Depression: The Five Steps I Followed to Victory
Originally published as "Five Strategies I Use to Beat Postpartum Depression and Anxiety" in Her View From Home. My hands were shaking as I dialed the number to my doctor’s office. I held the phone to my ear and sat down as I listened to the line ring. My heart was pounding as the receptionist answered,... Continue Reading →