I remember the phone call like it was yesterday. My husband was driving down a highway in northern Utah and I was on the other end of the line, sitting behind a desk in Columbia, South Carolina. Panicked. As much as I love vacations and travel, I am a woman who thrives on routine. Take me out of my routine, and I get flustered. My husband was about to interview for a job over 2,000 miles away from the town where I’d spent my entire life. Twenty-seven years of memories. Twenty-seven years of Continue Reading
When the Holidays Renew Grief for Someone You Love
“How is your family doing?” I ponder the question and wonder which version to give her. Does she really want to know? With a half-smile, I tell her they are fine. We talk about my parents’ physical health and leave the conversation short, not going into any detail. It's difficult to tell which is more exhausting- the skill of developing a knack for small talk, or rehashing the omitted details. The truth is too much for short conversation. The heart of the matter too intense. Sometimes Continue Reading
When You’re Not Sure Your Prayers Are Making a Difference
The alarm goes off way too early after another rough night of baby not sleeping well. As my eyes adjust to the light, a blurry alert shows on my phone’s screen. A voice message from my friend on the other side of the world. All morning while I get the kids ready for school, I wonder what it says. This friend never sends me voice messages. Texts maybe, but this is unique. After dropping the boys off I finally get a free moment, and I walk to the bay window, looking out into early morning Continue Reading