Author: Angela Taylor Hylland

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!

Helicopter S.O.S.

August 5, 2013

I sat poised on the edge of my chair, a whispered plea in my throat. The bridal party stretched before me, picture-perfect, words of promise and endearment mingling with the buzz of bumblebees courting lavender. Meanwhile, two pint-size pink puffs frolicked stage right, giggling with the effort to leap and pluck leaves from a silently … More Helicopter S.O.S.

It All Adds Up to Home

July 29, 2013

Six years ago, we were sanding floors. It was a morning like this, warm with a cool breeze and a clinging dew. Outside, you could feel the quiet beat of a neighborhood, a tune laden with memories of childhood. We made god-only-knows-how-many trips to Home Depot to get supplies for sanding and the unexpected little projects … More It All Adds Up to Home

Wedding Readings

July 25, 2013

In honor of my dear friends, Chris and Cara, who are getting married this weekend, I want to share two exemplary literary excerpts on the topic of marriage. Although I’m partial to these wedding readings because they were a part of my ceremony nearly ten years ago, I particularly like them because they offer a unique take on lifelong love … More Wedding Readings

Free Seattle: Green Lake

July 22, 2013

Sure, I’m partial to Green Lake because it’s my neighborhood. But from the hordes of park-goers I see here every weekend, I can safely say it’s one of Seattle’s most popular destinations for both families and active, outdoorsy types. Perks: Free Flat, smooth path (bike, skateboard, roller skate, and handicap friendly) Several restroom facilities Lots … More Free Seattle: Green Lake

Why Pinterest?

July 18, 2013

Why Pinterest? For crafters: to create. For foodies: to find. For travelers: to dream. For procrastinators: to ponder. For type A’s: to organize. For (most) men: to gloriously roll their eyes. Granted, Pinterest has its dark side, too. I’ve heard many a mom complain that Pinterest’s entire existence aims to disprove their worth with its mocking treasure trove … More Why Pinterest?

Love and Difference

July 15, 2013

How do we reconcile love and difference? It’s a question we all must confront at some point or other, whether as fellow citizens, friends, siblings, daughters, sons, spouses, or parents. Particularly as parents. How we face this question doesn’t just affect us. It sculpts those born to trust in our guidance, love, and example. As Jim Sinclair, … More Love and Difference

Free Seattle: Gasworks Park

July 11, 2013

Continuing with my “Free Seattle” series, this week we head to Gasworks Park: land of stark contrasts, kite flying, frolic-worthy hills, and 270-degree views. Perks: Free Lots of wind for kite flying Great view of Lake Union and downtown Some of the best picture-taking in the city What to Do:

DIY Dollhouse

July 8, 2013

Parents with young kids know: There will be stir-crazy days. And on those days, your child’s least favorite thing to play with will be all of their toys. That’s exactly what led to this DIY dollhouse. So, if your kid is clamoring for a dollhouse, but you don’t want to spend a lot of dough on something they’ll … More DIY Dollhouse