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    This Is My Autograph – the important signature is so much more

This Is My Autograph – the important signature is so much more

Sitting at a long table covered with copies of my recent book, Tipsy in Stilettos, I was overwhelmed by the crowd that had shown up to hear me speak and have their books signed.

At first, I felt proud of what I’d accomplished. Then, I’ll admit, my ego crept in. I began imagining that this evening would never end—that there would be more readings, more signings, and more people waiting for my name scribbled across a page.

But just as I was about to sign the […]

A Beautiful Noise – when discourse becomes peaceful

Gathering around the table for what should have been a lovely dining experience, my then-high school-age children quickly began their sibling posturing. Remembering my own youth with three brothers, I wasn’t surprised when the conversation quickly grew heated, as four voices began shouting over each other to be heard.

Ah, the art of respectful conversation. That lovely activity where two or more people come together to share ideas and respect reigns supreme as one gives a point, then the other politely counter points. There may […]

Best Friends Forever

Sometimes a best friend can come in a tiny package

Long ago, when I was a child, if my bestie went on to find a new friend, I cried. No, I take that back. It meant the world was ending, and I blubbered hysterically.

For days after, I’d eat alone at lunch and later walk home by myself, feeling miserable. This would carry into the weekend, where I sat in my bedroom for hours because I had no one to play with. Luckily, as life would […]

To Erase or Not Erase Someone Who has Passed

When is it a good time to let contact information go once a loved one has died?

As the New Year gently rolled in and the Christmas decorations were stored away, I did what I do every year—I began to purge all the unnecessary things in my life. First went all the clothes I knew I’d no longer wear. Next came every drawer in the house that needed decluttering, and then it was off to the kitchen to throw away food that was long past […]

A Beautiful Day in My Neighborhood

Turning on the TV, I looked for something age appropriate, educational, and fun for Michelle, my two-year-old daughter. It was 1983, and I needed a distraction so I could tend to my second child, Michelle’s baby sister Jenni. Up to that point, Michelle had never watched this form of entertainment and, not familiar with any children’s programing myself, I began channel surfing. Soon, I came upon a soft-spoken man with puppets and a message about being a neighbor and how we’re all perfect just […]

Jack(ie) of all Trades

As I jumped from an art project to my computer, then off to do laundry only to circle back to the art table again, I noticed my dad peering at me sideways, studying my comings and goings. Wondering what he was thinking, I asked, “You look deep in thought. What’s on your mind?”

The year was 2012, and I’d been caring for him since my mother’s passing 9 years before. Crippled, he spent most of his days sequestered to his frayed recliner, eyes closed. But […]