There was a mountain of laundry to do, Christmas gifts to order, pork to defrost, tumbleweeds of dog hair to sweep up, and computer work waiting in my cramped, chilly home office. I needed motivation, energy, positivity. But all I felt was a vague sense of apathy, boredom and guilt…
Military Life
Dredging your mind for treasures
When I was lucky enough to spot a shark’s tooth washed up among bits of shells, driftwood, seaweed and bottle caps, I’d feel a rush like I’d won something…How was it possible that something millions of years old unearthed itself and landed, perfectly-preserved, at my feet?
Bring a Little Goodness and Light to Your Holiday
Francis was deployed and I had three kids under the age of five. Needless to say, I was stressed. I have no idea what possessed me to wander into the flea market, but three isles in, past the creepy dolls, the handbag knock-offs, and the suspicious electronics, there it was — a beautiful 1971 ceramic Christmas tree gleaming like a beacon in that broken down strip mall….
When Elderly Relatives Visit for the Holidays
After returning from our last overseas tour in 2011, I thought it would be easy hosting parents and in-laws who had aged significantly while we were overseas. I mean, how hard could it be? Change some sheets, scramble a few eggs, make a dinner or two, do a little sight-seeing, right?…
