Previously published in the Hughson Chronicle-Denair Dispatch I have a friend who is afraid. Trauma in her life likely primed her to view the world with caution, assessing the danger. When a man tried to break to into her house, she huddled with her family in the hallway, calling
Previously published in the Hughson Chronicle-Denair Dispatch In college, I grew antsy during my husband’s orchestral performances. I watched the conductor perform, but preferred those mediums in which my eyes found a place to rest. With a substandard back and longer than usual legs, I found most theater chairs,
Previously published in the Hughson Chronicle-Denair Dispatch It was oddly emotional when the realtor suggested I remove all the art from the walls before we show the house. With our bid accepted on a property with more space and more opportunities, I pressed her for details on how to prepare
Time and again she glanced to her side, lifting her eyes up, a broad smile pouring into her expression. This new bride, 24 years old, with a mass of curls pinned to the side, holding a fingertip veil in place. Her skirts floated along with as she walked, trustingly locking
What is the first thing you let go of when time seems short? I have not yet found the time and space to write and think without a deadline. In an email, I explained, “I start to feel disconnected from my heart and my thoughts grow disorganized when I do
Previously published in the Hughson Chronicle-Denair Dispatch I steal away for a few moments to write these words between the flickering of the tree lights, the sound of a four-year-old yelling “puddles!”, and the slam of the door as she escapes. The toddler slams his favorite step stool
We waited in line at a special holiday sale, the line longer than usual, the packages larger than usual, and a cheerful, seasoned employee called out “remember this is the joyful time of year!” I wonder where the slow time has gone. Advent is meant to be a time of
