Loving Deeply and Losing

***This post was also featured on the Huffington Post as part of Common Grief, a Healthy Living editorial initiative. 

Until I actually lost my mom to cancer, I had a really shallow understanding of grief. 

Although I experienced loss and sympathized with others before— meaning, I mourned those who have died, attended funerals, sent notes, brought food, cried, prayed, and held hands— I had absolutely no idea what it really meant to grieve.  I thought I did.  But as it turns out, I didn’t.

Cupcakes

It was a much needed hang-out Saturday in our house. And looking back on this day, it is so obvious how important un-busy time is for families like mine. So I want to reflect on what none of us can see in the momentum of our busy, good intentions as parents and people. And I hope you’ll walk away  encouraged by five good reasons to take a break from regular busy with your kids. 

My Lenten Confession

So here I am with a confession.  While I have been hearing, even going through bits and pieces and motions of this intentional season in my church to draw nearer to God year after year, I am very sorry to say I don’t think I’ve ever really experienced the point of Lent in the way my faith deserves.  

Getting Through Christmas to Everyday

It wasn’t so much that I wasn’t ready for Christmas this year.  Truth be told, I didn’t want Christmas at all this year.  Every part of me was avoiding its coming.  The thought of Christmas without my beautiful mom was too much.