Christmas shopping for three girls used to be so easy. All it took was one stroll down the Barbie aisle at Toys R Us and we were basically set. But the older they got, the more complicated things became. No more baby dolls. No more Barbies. For awhile I could buy them...
The other day my girl and Iwere walking through the mall. When suddenly she stopped and stared at something on the wall.I shook my head in disbelief.I thought I knew her better.Can you guess what caught her eye? An ugly Christmas sweater.She laughed and pointed at...
If it were up to me, I would’ve chosen something sporty. Like a little red mustang with a convertible top. But no such luck. We got a big ‘ol beast that could barely fit in our garage. It was a 1977 Cadillac Deville … my husband’s grandpa’s pride and joy. When...
Today I'm sharing a story I posted on my blog a couple of years ago. "O Holy Night" was previously published in the book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: It's Christmas. Since I have lots of new blog readers, I thought maybe a "throwback" was in order.And if you're a...
One of my favorite parts about being a writer is getting the chance to tell other people's stories. Well today I'm sharing a story I wrote on behalf of my aunt. If you're an animal lover, I guarantee you'll enjoy Janet's story about her runaway cat, Tickles. And if...
First band concerts ... I’ve witnessed this phenomenon three times now. Several years ago Emily played the clarinet. Then Taylor played the flute. Most recently it was Maddie’s turn. Somehow, I always forget what a band full of sixth graders sounds like. It’s not...
Madison ripped open the envelope and pulled out a gift certificate. Her eyes widened as she read the print. With a joyful squeal, she launched both arms into the air. “Yes! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” It was the reaction I was hoping for. Birthday shopping for...
One could say I’m a bit of a planner. Don’t worry; I’m not obsessive-compulsive. I just like to be prepared – especially when going on vacation. Scoff if you’d like, but I have THE most comprehensive packing checklist EVER. Heading to the beach? I won’t forget...
One word. That’s all it took to launch me into a week-long tizzy. It began one night during dinner. The girls and I were talking – I don’t remember the topic. But I do recall feeling a bit exasperated. And that’s when I blurted out just one little word. “Well!” The...
“I don’t know, Maddie. This could backfire on us.” Madison fidgeted in her chair. She didn’t want to consider the possibility. Just the day before, Emily’s friend had asked if we’d be interested in dog-sitting while her family went on vacation. Of course we were...
I’ve always been a little envious of my fiction-writing friends. They can twist and turn their stories in whatever direction their imaginations take them. If the plot seems boring, they can change it. If a character is annoying, they can kill him. Meanwhile, I am...
I stood in line at the funeral home, waiting my turn to express sympathy to my friend. What would I say? She had just lost her husband. No words seemed right. I desperately wanted to say something … anything … to help. I quickly dismissed every thought that came to...
Just sharing the toughest story I ever ghostwrote. Because maybe, like me, you need a little perspective this year. After you read this, will you please pray for this sweet momma and her family? This would have been her son's senior year. March 2015 ... The energy...