The Sound of a Name

She didn’t know it was him. Not until he said, “Mary.” She was looking for Jesus’ body after arriving to find an empty tomb, when Jesus himself asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” But she didn’t recognize him until he spoke her name. There is something intimate…… Continue reading The Sound of a Name

Of Cancer and Little Boys

Up the ladder On the loft She snuggles in with her boy Her hand on his small back Memorizing the little bumps of his spine That mole on his shoulder The silk of his hair Scratching his back until his rhythmic breath Informs her of sleep. There is only this moment. Only she and her…… Continue reading Of Cancer and Little Boys

To the 2020 and 2021 Senior Mamas

I cried on and off for 8+ hours the day our governor announced that spring sports in Iowa were cancelled. By the time I went to bed, my eyes were burning. My nose was raw from blowing and wiping it. And I’m pretty sure there was a little guy with a hammer in my head…… Continue reading To the 2020 and 2021 Senior Mamas

Hard Anniversaries and Beauty from Ashes

Four years ago today, I got the biopsy results. Four years ago today, I couldn’t catch my breath. Four years ago today, I collapsed into Corey arms. Four years ago today, fear was a physical presence surrounding me and pressing in. Four years ago today, I was handed the monumental burden of figuring out the…… Continue reading Hard Anniversaries and Beauty from Ashes

10 Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Gifts

Need some gift ideas for a mom, daughter, wife or friend who is having a mastectomy and breast reconstruction? The following are 10 useful things to make her feel loved. A Soft Blanket My BFF gave me this Sherpa blanket. As you can see I wasn’t the only one in my house who loved it.…… Continue reading 10 Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Gifts