Isabelle’s Airport Miracle

Our trip home from Japan was quite possibly the worst traveling experience that I have ever had. Our little St. Isabelle Clare provided what I would consider to be a miracle to get us home, and for that I am...

A Christmas Rainbow

Leaving our house for the holidays has felt a bit like I am leaving my daughter behind while we are going off to celebrate Christmas. I have struggled a bit with these emotions even though I know that our daughter...

Carry Me

  These two pictures define the last few weeks for me. The first is something that I received in the mail. Notice how the stamp says, “Please do not bend,” and it has clearly been bent to fit inside my...

Isabelle’s Stocking

My husband comes from an Italian family with many traditions. There are certain movies that are watched, foods that are always made, and a certain ornament that is always licked (EW!) each Christmas. My own family’s traditions are a bit...

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...

The Bradford Pear Tree

The school that I teach at is shaped like a donut.  In the middle of the donut is a concrete area, several grass patches, and three huge Bradford Pear trees.  If you have ever seen a Bradford Pear tree 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...

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’...

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...