Love Letter to the Man in the Middle Seat on AA Flight 2920
On a delayed flight, a grieving stranger sat beside me. I didn’t know his story, but I knew grief. In that moment, words felt impossible—so I offered kindness instead.
Read MoreIn the Quiet Corners: A Reflection on Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter’s presidency was often dismissed, but his post-White House years defined his true legacy—one of service, humility, and quiet strength. From humanitarian work to teaching Sunday School, he proved that leadership isn’t measured by power but by purpose. In an age of loud, performative politics, Carter’s life is a reminder that goodness thrives in quiet acts of faith and service. His legacy offers a map—not of grand ambition, but of what truly matters.
Read MoreThe Glow Is Enough
From a bare Christmas tree to messy cookie-making, I’m letting go of perfection to embrace love, laughter, and shared moments. Remembering that it’s not the decorations but the glow of connection that makes the season magical.
Read MoreA Place at the Table: Family, Democracy, and Resilience
Reflecting on the messy, imperfect ritual of family dinners and their parallels to democracy. Amid spilled milk and laughter, we find connection and resilience, even in tough times. Just as we return to the dinner table, we keep showing up for each other, finding hope in the shared work of moving forward together.
Read MoreCranking Up the Past
A nostalgic ride through the soundtrack of teenage freedom—convertibles, late nights, and Rob Base on repeat. Sharing these songs with my sons, I reflect on the magic of music, its power to connect generations, and the joy of watching my boys create soundtracks of their own.
Read MoreWeathering Style
In Chicago, style is a dance with the city’s unpredictable seasons. From layering through September’s limbo to surviving winter’s gray chill, fashion adapts as life moves on. Resilience, practicality, and a touch of flair define how Chicagoans navigate their ever-changing wardrobes—and the cycles of our ever-changing city.
Read MoreThe Beauty of Disconnecting
This summer was a celebration of unplugging and rediscovering life’s simple joys. From mornings by the ocean to starry nights in the Grand Canyon, stepping away from the noise revealed beauty in everyday moments. It’s a reminder to pause, disconnect, and savor the world’s quiet magic—and carry that gratitude back into daily life.
Read MoreFrom the Bleachers to the Heart: A Love Story
Baseball is at the heart of our love story that began with a date at Wrigley Field. From season tickets to teaching our kids the magic of the game, the Cubs have been a constant thread in our marriage. Each pitch, win, and even heartbreak deepens our bond, creating a legacy of loyalty and love.
Read MoreExploring the World, One Eye Roll at a Time
Traveling as a family is both an art and an adventure, blending meticulous planning with the inevitable eye rolls from kids. From a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon to dreaming of London’s charm, these journeys are about more than destinations—they're about shared memories, new discoveries, and passing down a legacy of wanderlust, one itinerary at a time.
Read MoreThe Mother Load
The Mother Load is a quiet, unseen weight carried by mothers like me, filled with mental lists, small gestures, and love. Every act reflects devotion and care, from packing lunches to late-night cuddle rituals. Amid the grind of daily life, these moments of connection remind us that the load, though heavy, is the ultimate gift of love.
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