I ran 1,000 miles in middle school because my parents wouldn’t let me participate in a half marathon. I grew up in a sleepy mountain town where not much ever happened. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who lived as sheltered as we did. My parents homeschooled the six of us under very strict rules. … Continue reading Culture Shock
Joy is spending a long weekend camping with friends, building a trail in the woods where there wasn’t one before. I love being with my favorite people, doing my favorite things. You feel connected, connected to nature, to others, to the world. When I am out there doing things, there isn’t as much mental smog … Continue reading Hope & Depression
I am a small woman with big convictions. God is God. I am absolutely sure I am where I should be in life. That doesn't mean every day is easy. I treasure the good moments and know there is light behind dark times. Daddy having dementia is tough for my family; we hope for more … Continue reading Control
"I couldn’t stand behind the idea of trapping and euthanizing animals. They don’t have a voice. When I moved into my house, there were cats hanging around the yard. Then I came across one who was hurt from a fight. When you are facing a living creature that’s injured and bleeding, what do you do? … Continue reading Feral Cats
My goal in life is to be an awesome grandmother. My children are in 2nd grade, so I have time to convince them to give me grandchildren. I adored my grandmother. From the time I can remember until college, every Friday we went to her house for Shabbat dinner. She always made a roast and … Continue reading Infertility & Motherhood
I watch Jurassic Park when I am stressed, watching dinosaurs chase people makes my life feel easier. I tell myself, no matter what’s going on at least I am not hunted by raptors. I've seen it 30 - 40 times. Being that I am a 2nd-year seminary student, I’ve spent some time with Jurassic Park … Continue reading Submission, Faith (and Jurassic Park)
Close your eyes and envision the sea. Warm sand, glassy blue waters, and an unending horizon. The beach is a place where you feel one with nature and with God. I’ve never felt out of place in front of the ocean. Water heals. I miss it. I especially miss listening to the waves at night. … Continue reading Dallas, TX/ Sydney, Australia – Can You Hear the Sea?
When I look at him, I feel pure joy, love, and happiness. When my son was born, I shifted from focusing on me to focusing on another human. My worry is not on me anymore, and I do not have time to worry. It's freeing. I don’t doubt. I know I am the best person … Continue reading Surety in Motherhood
My sister’s laugh rings bright through my memories. With one hand on the ottoman and the other on the couch, she would laugh for the sake of laughing. Her baby feet were bouncing on the heinous, green carpet. Behind her were these big, sun-filled windows. On certain days, I would bring her to that spot … Continue reading Quiet Perseverance
"Oh! My proudest accomplishment and I am really happy that I don't cut no more. I am happy when I sing."
Story That Matters 