Memoir

Dear Self, You had a good life. You were a mom and a wife who didn’t lose yourself in those roles. You held onto what was important to you. You were confident in your opinions and your insight and you were willing to share them with people when asked. You stood up for yourself. You pursued education and learning your whole life- it never stopped. Your career was important to you and you didn’t let it get stagnant. You reinvented yourself again and again. You were a person who did not quit the things you cared about. Your boys turned out to be wonderful, kind people. They are loving and empathetic. Maybe not because of you, probably because of them, but know they are who you wished them to be. They are driven but balanced. Kind but strong. Empathetic and understanding. They love you. They know you made mistakes and you know that but your relationship with them is one that you can talk and work through issues with grace for everyone involved. You fell in love with Ryan again and again and again. You worked through your issues and became partners. True partners. You learned to accept him with the same grace and understanding you hoped your boys would take into relationships. You were a role model. For your kids, your husband, your family and your students. You had courage of your convictions, you were open to knowledge and experience, and you led your life with kindness and love. Continue leading with love.
I am from crocheted afghans, From ski boots and soccer cleats. I am from the yellow house on the corner. Clutter and chaos Warm and loud. I am from the aspen tree, The chokecherry bush Whose berries make jam. I am from cabin Thanksgivings and Catholic guilt, From Nedra and Diana. I’m from speaking too loud and Telling dumb jokes, I’m from the ditch monster and Grandpa’s pigs. I’m from church on Sunday. I’m from Billings and all over, Grandma’s macaroni and cheese and dad’s goulash From my Grandpa’s ambitions and Grandma’s unrealized dreams. The old filing cabinet Filled with papers from birth to death.
my fry bread.pdf
Back to School - Modern Boho Meet the Teacher (2).pdf