I Will Never Forget The First Time I Heard That Song

I Will Never Forget The First Time I Heard That Song

Music is a universal language. It is a reflection of the heart and touches the soul, and in seasons of grief, it opens a valve to our emotions. So, it is no surprise that artists have found healing through music over the years. It seems each season, I have found…
Quilted memories

Making Meaning In The Midst of Grief

December 16th is a date that will live in infamy, at least in my life. It represents the day our precious Bryan went to Heaven. The day I thought my heart would stop beating; the day our lives changed forever; and it is something else: it is the day of…
Unexpected nature of loss

Thanksgiving Surprise – Are Your Senses High Strung?

The holiday season is full of landmines for those in the midst of grief. I will never forget our first Thanksgiving after Bryan died. I was looking forward to having both of my girls home. Robin, my oldest, called to ask if they could bring their dog. I knew my…
What's Your Story

As One Parent To Another, What’s Your Story?

Sharing our stories is one way we keep memories of our loved ones alive. As we tell our stories, we remember not only the hard parts, like their deaths but the joys of their life. I have grown to appreciate those opportunities, just like I enjoy opportunities to tell you…
Easter Past

Easter Through the Lens of Grief

Easter Past I love Easter. As our kids grew up, it was almost a sacred time. After church on Easter Sunday, we would go to my folk's house for lunch, an Easter egg hunt, and family photos. The kids would line in age order to take pictures. Then, they would…
Growth In Loss: Loss Can Trigger Loss, But It Doesn’t Have To

Growth In Loss: Loss Can Trigger Loss, But It Doesn’t Have To

“Loss triggers loss. If you don't learn the art of helpful grieving now, future losses will compound - and continue to derail you.” Rebuild, week 6 Remembering when When it comes to child loss, my first experience came at 20 weeks of pregnancy. I was pregnant with my 3rdchild and went…
Recognize What Affects Your Grief

Do You Have The Kind Of Support System You Need?

A significant aspect of how we process grief is what kind of support system we have in our lives. Our support system is affected by different aspects that may include stage of life, personality, and community. Stage of Life When we are young, parents are a natural part of a child’s support system. Parents…
Avoiding Road Rage and Embracing Gapers

Grieving Into The Holidays – Ragers and Gapers

Part Two As you drive through the holidays, you not only face speedbumps (things you can anticipate may be headed your way) and potholes (things you don’t see coming) but there are other drivers on the road. Every driver you pass is on a journey as well. Each can potentially…