Being Thankful is a Choice

In years past, on Thanksgiving, I enjoyed many wonderful meals with family while we shared all of the things for which we were thankful.  I can recall numerous childhood Thanksgivings surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Some were spent in...

Surviving a Trigger Day

Upon sitting down in church this morning, a woman sitting near us turned to me and asked, “Did you have your baby?” I forced a smile as my heart raced and responded, “ Yes.” She congratulated me and I thanked...

A Very Valuable Lesson

“How has your day been today?” asks a smiling girl at the beginning of my last class of the day.  Her jeans are too small and have holes.  I have a feeling that things are rough at home for her. ...

For All The Saints

November 1st has always been a day of celebration in our family. Not only is it All Saints’ Day, it is my sister’s birthday! This year, the first of November takes on a special meaning. As Catholics, on All Saints’...

Our First “Holiday”

Initially, when I thought about which days would likely be the most difficult after Isabelle passed away, her birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were on the top of my list. I never considered that Halloween might trigger some strong emotions. A...

A Mug in the Closet

Recently, I received my first baby shower invitation since losing my daughter. I am not angry about it. I am sure the sender was conflicted as to whether I would be offended from not getting an invite at all, or...

That Would Never Happen To Me

Last October, I was reading a friend’s blog and learned that October 15 was Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In the post, she shared about how difficult it was when she lost her baby to a miscarriage the previous...

What’s in a name?

Clare. As soon as Matt and I found out that we were having a girl, the name Clare was on my heart. We debated for several weeks before settling on Isabelle Clare. It was the perfect name. So, what’s in...