Family

Happy Father’s Day, Dad

I miss my dad. It's been 21 years since I heard his voice, felt his strong hugs, and smelled the Old Spice Aftershave on his cheeks. What I wouldn't give for a conversation with him. Sometimes I imagine him showing up, like when I'm walking on the beach by myself, thinking about him. As I… Continue reading Happy Father’s Day, Dad

Uncategorized

Happy Mother’s Day

It's hard to admit, but I remember a time when I wondered if I wanted to be a mother.   I thought I lacked the natural maternal desire.   It just didn't grab hold of me with the urgency and excitement I thought I should feel.   It didn't help that I grew up in… Continue reading Happy Mother’s Day

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Milestones and Proud Mamas

Today my daughter, Sara, graduates from college. This milestone brings to mind so many memories... When I took her to orientation day at preschool to meet her teacher and classmates, she walked away from me to interact with the other children. She kept looking back at me, surely needing reassurance that I was still there.… Continue reading Milestones and Proud Mamas

Family

And then there was the Playboy story

First of all, here's the update on Kelly and his whiskey. Mom felt guilty and called to tell him his moonshine was really vinegar. Oh, the disappointment. "So, why is it that when I tell someone a secret in this family, nobody keeps it a secret? But, you can all keep secrets from me," he… Continue reading And then there was the Playboy story

Family, Parenting

How to Motivate Kids

A couple of weeks ago, my neighbor asked me to write a blog about how to motivate kids to get good grades. She asked me how I motivated my kids. I had to think about it for a minute to remember, then I squirmed a little. "Money," I said. I honestly don't know whether our… Continue reading How to Motivate Kids