I ventured into the world of book (and blog) writing to fulfill a promise to my beloved mother-in-law. Sue's bright light was extinguished on December 2, 2010, after a valiant 13-year battle with breast cancer... just five month's after her first grandchild (my daughter) was born. Now as a mother, entrepreneur, friend, sister, daughter, wife, and torch-bearer of a legacy, I paddle my boat, one wave at a time, toward that promise to her—and now to myself. In death as in life, Sue continues to motivate and inspire me. Follow me, and I'll do my best to pass the inspiration along. To life!
Nostalgia: pleasure and sadness that is caused by remembering something from the past. Where is your most nostalgic place? For me, it would definitely be my childhood home. Because before it was my home, it was my dad’s… and his brothers’… and my grandparents’. My first memory on RR 66 includes a hazy, toddler-height view of my … More Nostalgia
I grew up with a mom who was a children’s storytime librarian. So I can’t really pick up a kids’ book without brainstorming ways to make it interactive. The first idea below is my mom’s all-time favorite, and the others I whipped up for two of my 3 year old’s (and my) favorite kids’ books.
A couple years ago, I posted this super easy (and healthy!) recipe, and after making it this week, I am compelled to post it again. SO GOOD. You may remember it as Grumpus Soup—proven to help alleviate child possession by The Grumpus Monster.
As I mentioned in my post last week, I’m expecting my second child now, which has brought a vast range of emotions, along with a profound appreciation for both the good and the bad of pregnancy … and life in general. One day, while crying over, oh I don’t know, the way the morning light played … More Louis CK … Zen Master?
“That was a memorable day to me, for it made great changes in me. But, it is the same with any life… Pause, you who read this, and think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold, of thorns or flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of … More Great Expectations
Looking for great foods to make and freeze for the lazy, cold months ahead? I have one word for you: EMPANADAS. The first time I ever had empanadas was courtesy of my friend Juan’s mom, who was the master after living several years in Argentina. I still haven’t found any that can compare to hers, … More Empanadas
What tradition marks the beginning of the holiday season for you? In our house (and now our friends’) it’s coffee. And surprisingly, this tradition has nothing to do with Seattle, but rather Minnesota… by way of Chicago…
On a dreary Seattle day, I escape to memories of Sevilla. Watercolor corridors, geometric plazas, the smell of orange trees, hamhocks in windows, the distant clap-clack of the Flamenco … Never been? I have one word for you: GO. Here’s what you need to know.
Has anyone else been bothered by the rash of stories in the news lately, highlighting what appears to be a growing public acceptance of sexually based brutality? Now, I know on this blog, I normally focus on inspiring, live-your-best-life stuff (and will continue to do so), but as a mom of a daughter, I feel I … More Sons and Daughters
Stuck inside? Missing summer already? Head under your table. That’s right. Spread out a blanket under your table, and have an indoor picnic!
My Castle Heart Publications 