Category: family
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Look Again

Two years ago today, my sweet daddy gained his angel wings. He’s been front of mind and heart lately, especially with memories of that day. And, just as much, I’ve been thinking of him as the 47th POTUS unleashes more bullying and hate with Project 2025, exactly as promised. Dad called it eight years ago,…
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Less Is More

Last year did a number on me, y’all. More hate between Red and Blue. Deep hurt as a 92 percent Black woman who voted for the common good (because we’re completely – not selectively – honest about the country we love, too). Knowing that so many folks voted for rich people who are clearly self-serving,…
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My Go-To

Anyone else struggling to get it all done, while actually getting it all done? Honestly, I think the trifecta of colder weather, all-things-holiday, and press of year-end deadlines makes my bed feel extra cozy every morning (read: hard to get out of, y’all). Add layers like missing loved ones and waking up to daily news…
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Know and Trust

Feeling hard-pressed or stressed? Same. Life has required roller blades lately. And mostly for lovely moments. Ten college applications are now submitted for our high school senior (and to clarify – 10 applications that required at least twice that number of essays). We’ve shown up for loved ones and friends when needed. We voted early…
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In Joy

I thank the Creator of the universe for another rotation around the sun today. While I’m a low-key introvert who is happy to celebrate my birthday quietly, I don’t take my special day each year for granted. So many so dear to me are no longer here. Others born the same year have flown high,…
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Hold On
I’m blessed to have known all four of my grandparents. Poppy Sykes was larger than life, a creative soul whose good-natured pranks made strangers double over with laughter. Grandpa Booker had a gentle spirit and strong hands that worked farmland and mastered carpentry. Before her winter years, Grandma Booker created the most delectable cuisine with…
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Never Alone

There’s something about this time of year. School’s out, summer’s on, and transitions are underway. In our home, a kindergartener is now a first grader. And we have two rising seniors, one in high school and one in college. Friends have kiddos heading to sleepaway camps, where kids are learning to be a bit more…
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Still Here

Dad slipped away quietly one year ago today. And, oh, how I miss him. I remember that day in vivid detail. The steady rain. The chill in the air. How I knew he’d passed when hospice’s number appeared on my phone screen. How I let it go to voicemail because I was taking our teen…
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A Fond Farewell

As the youngins say, life be lifing. But, it’s still life. And, this year often reminded me that life is such an incredible gift.
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Papa

This time each year my heart takes a rollercoaster ride. We’re shaking off the busyness of summer. The kiddos go back to school and grow up some more on us. And our family celebrates at least 15 birthdays in September. And this year’s heart rollercoaster ride is right on time. Our oldest is starting her…