Old Dogs

While running today with my almost-13-year-old Border Collie Felix, I smiled sadly at the number of times I had to stop to encourage him to keep going. I marveled at his tenacity to continue. I couldn’t help but think back to the days when he was leading the charge…when I was keeping up with him…when we both had a little more spring in our step. Together we have travelled many miles…and those miles have taken their toll. We’re both a little flabbier, a little more tired, a little less motivated. But neither one of us is willing to give up just yet.

Am I Mom Enough?

I love to read articles about mom-ing…to get the perspectives of others who are warrioring through mommy the trenches…to hear their stories, feel their camaraderie, experience their insights. This is by far my most favorite mom-ing article of all time. On the days when I could use some encouragement, I read it and aspire anew to be as awesome as the mom who wrote this.

Illinois Senate Legalizes Same Sex Marriage!

Here is the happiest news I heard this Valentine’s Day: Illinois is one step closer to joining the states on the right side of history.  As a mom, it is so important to me that my boys grow up in a world where everyone has the right to–without shame or limitations–publicly be the person they were born to be. I am thrilled to see the dominoes falling. I hope that California will soon join the fray.

Attention Fellow Writers!

Because I am blessed to know so many amazing writers, I would love to use this space to give voice to my fabulous friends. Whether you write regularly or (like me) have fantasized about writing but haven’t actually found the time/huevos to do it, this is your chance! Click HERE to submit something or to express your interest in becoming a regular contributor!

Super Cheesey

One of my favorite ways to make something fancy in a flash is to add an easy but unexpected detail. One example is to use pie crust cutters to cut out the cheese for your appetizer platter. Little ones REALLY enjoy “cutting the cheese.” If you have some little “helpers” (or a culinarily-challenged spouse/friend) dying to do something for the party while you frantically attend to last-minute details, this is a great way to keep them busy and out of your hair. If you’ve no time for cheese cutting, put some pie crust cutters in the middle of a cheese platter for a fun party activity.