Thanksgiving is less than two weeks away. This means that in every paper, magazine, and website you’ll find a host of articles on gratitude. There are even articles complaining about the people who write about how grateful they are. As a writer I love the topic of gratitude. Counting my blessings is pretty easy as I have much in my life to be thankful for. But do people … [Read more...]
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
In just a few short days, a war’s going to break out in my otherwise (somewhat) peaceful household. November 1 starts the annual “War of the Christmas Music.” Each year, it’s me against my husband Joe and the three little darlings that I brought into this world, I should add after a collective 36 hours of labor and three C-sections. This year, I’m taking a proactive … [Read more...]
Surprises in Parenting
Our youngest child Peter has always been a marvel at building with blocks, train tracks, vegetables, paper cups, and anything else he can get his hands on. This may be nothing special in most families, but it means he stands out in our family of klutzes. About four years ago Tom, our oldest, was in panic after seeing another amazing creation his baby brother made with his … [Read more...]
I Feel Nellie’s Pain
Whenever I want to recapture a bit of my youth, all I need to do is get in the back seat of my parents’ car, and I’m instantly transformed to girl of about 15 instead of a married mother of three. I should really do some research to find out if this effect is only on me or if it would work on anyone. Perhaps my parents’ power transcends their own offspring. I could be … [Read more...]
This Average Family
This piece originally ran on the Dishwasher, August 5, 2012, under the title, A Day in the Life. It has been slightly edited.Thank you for allowing me to revisit it today. I’m the mother of three amazing children. I married my best friend, and we live in the suburban neighborhood I grew up in. I even drive a minivan. On paper, we sound like a very ordinary family. Even … [Read more...]
