Finding Small Joy While Grieving at Plant Bingo
A gentle reflection on grief, healing, and finding small moments of joy after loss. One evening of Plant Bingo became a reminder that it’s okay to smile while grieving.
When Grief Isn’t Gentle – Part 2: The Day We Walked Her Honor Walk
A mother’s reflection on losing her mom, choosing organ donation, and the profound love found in her final hours.
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When Grief Isn’t Gentle – Part 1: Carrying Anger After Losing My Mom
A heartfelt reflection on grief, anger, and unanswered questions after losing my mother. Sharing the story of her final weeks and the emotions that still remain.
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Grieving My Mom While Parenting Children Through Loss
Grieving my mom while supporting my children through the loss of their Nana has reshaped motherhood in ways I never expected. This reflection shares the quiet, complex reality of parenting through grief.
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A Quiet Christmas: Holiday without My Mom
Christmas feels comforting, yet painfully different this year. The laughter is quieter, the mornings heavier, and grief shows up in unexpected moments — like a cup of coffee on a cold Michigan morning and a wind chime that feels like a reminder of love still surrounding us.
Christmas Without My Mom: Navigating Grief, Motherhood, and Boundaries
A heartfelt reflection on Christmas without my mom—navigating grief, motherhood, traditions, and boundaries during the holidays after loss.
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When Grief Meets Advocacy: Processing the Loss of My Mom
Dear Journal, Yesterday was hard. I had to push through the afternoon of work and then dinner and family time. I hate that family time is so hard right now. It’s something I have to talk myself through almost daily while navigating grief and motherhood. We still have to live and make fun time, even
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Navigating Grief After the Loss of My Mother: Three Months In
A grieving mother reflects on life three months after losing her mom—honor walks, organ donation, parenting through grief, and finding light.
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The Beginning of the End
Dear Journal, September 12, 2025 was the day my mom was declared brain dead. Three months ago today. Somehow, it feels like both the longest time and no time at all. I think you may know exactly what I mean. I think this happens often as a parent—time stretches and collapses all at once. The