grieve, write, cook

Transparent Moment: Today is the day that my Dad transitioned from this side. Seventeen years ago. Some days I’m full of joy and other days that grief just creeps in and I feel empty, lost, and confused. I felt that the past two weeks. I shared before it’s like the grief before the grief. I […]

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To The One Needing Encouragement

Photo by ian-dooley-281846

The journey of grief is so unpredictable, because you never know when it will hit you. Then just like that… It’s easy for people to say they will be there for you, but when you need them most, they aren’t there. Or…they don’t know how to be. I don’t think people get it until it […]

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Grief Comes In Waves, But Choose You

I believe in transparency and the power of it. I try my BEST to hold it together, but when that grief hits you in waves, it’s either sink or swim. Lately I’ve been feeling like I’m sinking, and to be honest, I don’t feel like being “strong” (whatever that means). I’ve had a BEYOND overwhelming […]

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You Just Learn How To Manage

It’s hard to believe that two years ago on Mother’s Day, out of all days, my life changed forever. I watched my beautiful Mother walk down the steps to greet me at the door (like she always did) of the home I grew up in, before heading to church. She even had on her best, […]

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This One Is For Us

I’ll admit—I’ve gone into this season with intentional busyness. Some of which was already planned, and the rest was just to keep my mind off the reality that this Thanksgiving holiday would be different from any other. I still give Mama praises for teaching me how to make her famous Dressing…which is hands down THE […]

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After the Music Stops, Life Keeps Going

It was the first time that I attended a funeral and repast where I felt empty. Maybe because this one hit home. And maybe because the last time it hit this close (with Daddy), I had my Mom’s love and presence to surround me. Everyone seemed to be in a rush and ready to leave […]

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When Healing Doesn’t Come

My family is very small. My only sibling lives thousands of miles away. In my early 20’s, I watched my Father go through rounds of chemo, radiation therapy, and take his last breath right before my eyes. I also watched my Mother and best friend bounce back countless times like a warrior. But months ago, I […]

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Even in the Valley

Twice a year I participate in 21 Days of Prayer with my tribe. But this time around, I had to approach my prayers differently. There was a season where I prayed for healing (on this side) for my Mom, but God had another plan. Right now I’m in a broken place and my hope is […]

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Win the Day

Losing a parent, child, or someone you love is life-changing, especially those who have gone through this life journey with you. Losing someone unexpectedly will knock the wind right out of you. It’s numbing. I was talking to a friend about life…and loss. He started talking about people who battle addiction and their desire to […]

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When Your Prayers Are Not Answered

I went from being on a high in my faith while serving at a Freedom Conference to the lowest low I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. I prayed and BELIEVED God for a miracle. I’m talking about…on my knees, on my face…pleading with God. The kind of prayers you shout out to the Lord […]

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