Fourteen years ago, my dad died from multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer of the blood. He was in his mid-50s. The ache of missing him never leaves, the tiny hole in my heart still empty. I miss everything that is him, even the faults. And for the longest time, I felt responsible for his death.
I’m fortunate to be raised by two amazing parents who didn’t hesitate to show my sisters and me support, encouragement, love, laughter, and respect (with some rules sprinkled in too). My parents balanced each other in so many ways. I had a different, but close, relationship with both my mom and dad. Even though cancer took
It’s no secret that I’m the proud aunt of four nieces and two nephews (although one is legally a nephew in law, I love him like my own too), ranging in ages from 6 years to 22 years old. I love being an active part of their lives. Watching them grow warms my heart and
I have so many ideas for fun, travel and making my dreams come true in 2018! You may have read that I’m not setting big goals this year, but focusing more on ensuring my days and experiences are full of three emotions – Love, Laughter, Joy (check out the blog). That doesn’t mean I don’t
It is slightly stunning to me that Thanksgiving is this week, starting the whirlwind holiday season. And a stark reminder that the year is quickly winding down. I can’t believe how fast the year went – a testament of the fun and adventures creating my Best.Year.Yet? Or the reality that life seems to speed up
It’s been an odd weather week in southeast Michigan. Dreary, downpours, high winds, then sunshine, humidity and warm temps, then back at the wet, gray again. So when the sun glimpsed out, I quickly pulled on my cycling shorts and jersey, grabbed my gear, loaded my bike and headed to my favorite rails-to-trails. I needed
Birthdays have always been special days in my family. My parents made each new year fun and happy. We didn’t have bounce houses, farm animals or huge parties like are in excess today, but I loved the sleepovers, house full of family and friends, and laugh-filled celebrations with my favorite Angel food cake. 2 When
Today marks 19 years since I finished treatment for bone cancer. Nineteen years since I walked out of the hospital, on my own two legs. Bald and skinny. Alive. I still vividly recall breathing in the fresh air, lifting my face to the sunshine….and bursting into tears. Tears of relief at being done with the
I admit it’s been a long time since I’ve gone on a date that truly excites me. It’s been some time since I’ve sat across from a guy who likes me as much as I like him, or vice versa. Dating isn’t easy, especially when you have a good idea of what you want, and,
Father’s Day seems to creep up on me every year. 2 Perhaps because it is like every day for me. It is a day without my dad. I recall the memories of our time together, and ponder the many moments that he has missed in my life, and our family, since his death from cancer.
