The Student Who Taught Me I Have Room for Thankfulness
This is a submission in our monthly contest. November’s theme is Gratitude. As I drove from my house in the country, fields and green lawns gave way to rows of colorful single-family homes and then...
"Oprah's Favorite Things 2017" - the Reality Edition
I took a look at some of these items and, no offense to Queen Oprah, but I beg to differ.
Me, My Son's Wheelchair, and a Frankenboot
I was unloading the wheelchair from the van – something I’ve done successfully a thousand times. Until this one time.
Sweater Hugs, Here and Now, and From Beyond
This well worn sweater- it’s hers, it’s mine, and with it, we will always be together. At least, that’s what my grieving mind still tells me.
The Frustrating Zen of Cleaning With a Toddler
That feeling that there is always more to do – that is a permanent state. May as well embrace it.
I'm not sure if he knew it, but this American gentleman saved the lives of many young people in Beirut, including mine.
3 Companies That Are Carving Space for Adults on the Autism Spectrum
There are a few up-and-coming companies that gear themselves to the needs of autistic adults.
Why Elf on the Shelf is Worth the Hassle
The beauty of the Elf is that he's instilling a sense of tradition and offering an opportunity for many families to bond over something during the holidays.
Angels Do Exist (at the Grocery Store)
We made eye contact and exchanged a smile. She didn’t have to mention she was a mom. I knew the moment I saw her that she really saw me.
6 Ways to Find Happiness and Survive the Shortest Days of the Year
A few ways to still enjoy evening family time, get some exercise, and forget our its-dark-way-too-early-blues.
Santa Cares: A Holiday Life Saver for Parents of Kids With Special Needs
We got in line early for Santa. We decided to try him out again, this time in a comfortable and familiar environment: the nursery school Christmas party. Our daughter knew everyone in line, and alt...
A spider has woven a web in the space between the open kitchen window and the screen that we have yet to take down for winter. Fall in upstate New York. The evenings are frosty. It is a good place ...
A Shared Journal, an MRI, and Perspective
I wanted to remember how good my life was since I was stuck in a loop of anxiety with never-ending needs surrounding me. This journal could help me do that.
Generations of Tea Remembrances
As I watch my daughter drink tea with her daughter, I’m grateful that this tea ritual I learned from my mother is passed on to my daughter to make her own.
What a NICU Moms' Support Group Taught Me About Fearlessness
I was about to cavalierly flaunt her health and my good fortune in their faces. The New Moms’ Support Group was soon to find out I was a fear-fraud.
Christmas Traditions From Around the World That Could Create a New Family Tradition
If you are looking for new activities to celebrate the holiday season, consider these fun and unique ideas from countries around the globe.
The Longview Lesson Kids Can Learn From Being Bullied
The first time I heard, “Hey, Buzzard!” I was 12. As I watched my own kids grow up, having been Buzzard for a few summers did me some favors.
Gratitude in the Midst of Small-Moment Lives
What if the quiet moments are worth every bit as much as the loud moments performed before the multitudes?
13 Fabulous Gifts that Give Back
These unique, well-made gifts are all from awesome companies that give to charity with each purchase.
Letter to My Daughter's Oncology Team After She Died
Dear Team Thank you all for your dedication, compassion, and remarkable persistence in managing Ana’s complex disease over the last four years. Jim and I are truly grateful for the care Ana receive...
Subscription Boxes: the Gift That Keeps on Giving
We’ve rounded up 12 of the best subscriptions with something for everyone … even the family dog!
Stop Doing Everything for Your Kids and Set Them on the Path to Independence
Over-parenting and prolonged childhood are an epidemic in this country and it's not benefitting anyone.
Stand on My Shoulders, Baby Girl
Dear Maria: Oh (wo)man, are you coming of age in an interesting time. Never have we as women been able to accomplish more. You and me together watched a woman run for president, and I saw on your f...
My mom carefully molded these Thanksgiving memories for us, but we took her for granted. Her spoiled kids could never reciprocate that love until adulthood.