A Blessing for a Pandemic
May the quiet usher in space, May the space give way to attention, May the attention allow for reflection. And, may the reflection bring about gratitude. May the fear travel aside comfort, May the comfort be followed by assurance, May the assurance give way to strength, And, may strength birth hope. May this pause help to simplify, May the simplicity reflect your deepest sincerity, May sincerity center your core, And, may this core guide you in the days to come. “I like it, Mom.” “Thanks, Babe!”
A Playlist for International Women’s Day: Volume 2
Because music is such a powerful medium of expression and is something I absolutely make a part of my every day, I had to offer a second playlist for International Women's Day.
Women’s History Month: Celebrate through Simple Costumes and Timeless Portraits
I am not being original as I got this idea from another mom and daughter who did the same thing for Black History Month. I was inspired by the conversations some costumes and a camera could make. So Addy and I set out to capture who she believes are "strong and brave" women from history and fiction. For each day during the month of March, Addy is dressing up as a different strong and brave woman.
Lent: Why I Hate The Season But Need To Observe It Still
I love Advent. I hate Lent. Lent is dark. Advent is light. Lent is mourning. Advent is inviting. Lent is full of solitude. Advent is full expectations and hope. One is waiting for birth. The other is waiting for death. Then there is Good Friday. Yuck! In the past, I have started Lent with a visit to the pub. Right after Ash Wednesday, I walk to the nearest bar and order a simple Ale. There I take stock of where I’ve been and slowly accept a season that lays bare the doubt and pain that causes me to stumble. I am both Thomas and Peter as they question the promise…
Fertility: A Story of Loss & Grief
At 41 years old, I am the mother of a 5-year-old. I came to motherhood a bit later than most do (in the Midwest at least). My first marriage was one without the thought of children. And it was only near its end that I realized I wanted very much to be a mom. I’d like to think my second marriage would have taken place regardless of my daughter’s conception, but it was definitely a big factor in taking another set of “till death do us part” vows. My fertility was never in question five years ago. In fact, my pregnancy came as a surprise, albite a delightful one! My…
Music by Women for Women: Celebrating International Women’s Day 2019
As I celebrate International Women’s Day this year, I’m keeping my dial locked into 89.9. I’m celebrating my own contributions to the world. And the biggest and perhaps most important contribution I will make is raising my daughter. In years to come we’ll chat about gender-balance, feminism and why there is even a need for International Women’s Day. Today, we’re keeping it simple by singing and dancing to the sounds of women’s voices! Join us and may I make a suggestion for your soundtrack with these 16 songs.
Parenting Lessons from Parents Who Cheat, Lie, Fail Their Kids (And Play Aunt Becky on Full House)
Let me disclose my prejudice right away: I was always jealous of Aunt Becky! Gorgeous and funny husband. All the benefits of great "parenting" and returning them to their dad at the end of the day. And her figure still in tact because she didn't actually have to carry those adorable kiddos in her own body. As their "Aunt", she was influential in the success of D.J., Stephanie and Michelle.
Welcome To A Not So Average Mom Blog
Welcome to another “mom blog”! But wait! It’s not an average mom blog. If you aren’t a mom or even if you are, keep reading. There is something in here for you! “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I always knew the woman I wanted to be.” Diane Von Furstenberg I’m a mother, raised by a mother, who was raised by a mother, who was also raised by…you guessed it…a mother. My own motherhood came five years ago when I gave birth to my daughter, Addy, with ginger hair and a stubborn streak rivaled only by her dad. For a midwestern gal, I came to motherhood a…