Tales from the Trenches

So Much For Neverland

Madeline as I’m changing Baby Rae’s diaper: “I’m getting bigger and bigger and bigger.” Me: “Yes, you are.” Madeline: “I’m growing up.” Me: “Yes, you are.” Madeline: “But Daddy doesn’t want me to grow up.” Me: “Did he tell you that?” Madeline: “Nam [her codeword for “yes,” rhymes with “mom”].” She pauses for dramatic effect.Read the whole post >>

Five Lessons My Kids Teach Me Every Day

1. Stop to smell the roses…and dandelions.To my Madeline, who’s almost 3, every blossom – no matter how simple – is a lovely flower and one worthy of being picked. She’ll find a bedraggled weed, pluck it from the ground, sniff it and then offer it to me as a gift. Thanks to her appreciationRead the whole post >>

Keeping Faith

There have been times in my life when my faith overwhelms me. Some days I can look at a Crucifix and feel so close to Christ that my body trembles and my eyes brim with tears. Sounds dramatic, but it’s happened to me before. Or, I receive the Eucharist and no longer feel hungry forRead the whole post >>

The Making of a Diva

You don’t need to be the next pop princess to have the makings of a diva. No, all it takes is one week of unadulterated attention, the freedom to run around without any clothes on if you so desire, an entourage of extended family members to cater to your every whim, and meals always toppedRead the whole post >>

Trip Highlights

After spending a relaxing week in Maine, it’s back to reality for all of us. For Dave that means he has returned to work and will be spending much of his time in radiology reading rooms. Madeline is facing a dearth of “special treats.” No more nibbling on toasted marshmallows or sampling GG’s (Great GrandmotherRead the whole post >>