I don’t know what possessed me to do it. The thought of leaving my comfort zone gave me nightmares, yet in November of 2004 I signed up to go on a study abroad summer trip to the British Isles. I didn’t know anyone going on the trip. Plus, six-and-a-half weeks away from my home in Arizona sounded frightening. Maybe I had a random courageous streak...

Grieving is a unique experience. It’s a process that is as individual as the people it affects. Oh yes, there are predictable stages … but the experience of loosing someone  dear to you is truly a very personal journey. Recently I said goodbye to my dear Dad. It’s hard to believe it was only a couple of months ago. I’ve processed a lot...

Not everyone will have a happy Thanksgiving…especially this year. Many are out of work, have issues relating to health, children and family.  Some are mourning a loved one, others are facing the holiday season as a divorcee for the first time.  What happens to thanksgiving and praise when peace disintegrates into chaos? I’ve been through...

At 19 weeks I gave birth to a little boy.  We named him Jacob.  We said hello and goodbye in the same hour. He is not a miscarriage or an almost-child, he is my son.  This letter was written three years after his birth.  This is a glimpse into my mother’s heart, a letter written to Jacob my son who resides in heaven.  If you (or someone you...

“I’m sorry. I can’t find the heartbeat,” she said.  I stared in shock at the ultrasound machine. I couldn’t take my eyes off of it.  It hurt too much to think about it. “What?” my mind screamed. “What are you saying?”  But really I didn’t want to know.  I stared at the screen willing the baby to live.  A month before,...