As most of you know, since my mother-in-law’s death I’ve been on a mission to find ways to keep the memory of Sue alive for my baby girl. That desire, in turn, sparked a passion to help other families in the same situation. Unfortunately, I have many close friends mourning the loss of a parent, right … More Arroz Con Pollo
Here are some of the many special people we’re remembering today and a little snapshot as to why. I hope this little project brings a bit joy to your day and spurs you to share a story of a loved one with those around you. If you’d like to add your own memory here, it’s … More Memorial Day Remembrances
Let’s do something together for Memorial Day. Let’s memorialize someone. Here’s what we’ll do: In the comments section below, just write the name (first only is fine) and a memory or two you’d like to pass on about them. Even just a phrase or sentence is fine, though stories are welcome, too! You can even e-mail … More Memorial Day Project
Thanks to my poetry post on Friday, I found the following poem in my inbox this morning. My favorite line: “We see your raised face/at both sides of a day.”
Happy Holidays, from me and my family to you and yours. May this magical season fill you with fond memories of the past, joyous appreciation for the present, and unbridled hope for the future. Follow me on Google+
This year my husband and I are gearing up for our first Christmas in our own home in 18 years! Ever since we went to college, we’ve been going to other people’s homes and participating in other people’s traditions. Now all of the sudden we have to figure out what we want to do and … More Recognize a Mentor
Tomorrow we’re honoring a holiday tradition started by Sue. She always took her grandkids to the theater this time of year, so we’re doing that for Szaba as well, just as Sue would’ve done. Sue’s mom Shirley even got Szaba a poofy dress for the occasion. I thought you might be amused by our attempts to … More Holiday Tradition
It’s Black Friday, and I’m making my list and checking it twice. What I’m checking for is experiential gift ideas. Basically, the idea is: think beyond the physical items you’ll wrap and put under the tree. (Let’s face it. Sadly, the majority of those items are just going to end up gathering dust or in a … More The Gift of Experience
Never underestimate the importance of a good friend. Thanksgiving 2010, I got the call that Ryan and I had to fly back to Minnesota. Immediately. I was taking care of my 3 month old, unpacking from our Thanksgiving trip two days earlier, and putting up the Christmas tree. Ryan was still at work, returning home … More The Essential Friend
This weekend last year we were partying. Ryan and I were visiting Mankato for the first time with Szaba, and Sue had us booked: Day 1: Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with Sue’s dearest friends Day 2: A grand holiday family dinner Day 3: Coffee hour at home with her company friends Given that Sue couldn’t … More The Special Ornament
My Castle Heart Publications 