Category: Uncategorized
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That’s a Wrap
That’s a wrap on a school yearthat held so much…change-a new position for mechallenge-learning interventions and matching them to striving readersreinvigoration-for my teachingcrisis-financial struggles for our district…again relationships-with my K-4th gradersspeeches-pleading to the Board to save reading & math supportletters-full of data and resultsfun-parent drop off & pick up with my teamcamaraderie-with my work bestiesdevastation-65…
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Come See Me in the Good Light
Oh, I did. In TribecaWith a friend new to one of my favorite poets. I whispered,“See you in two hours!”as the lights went down. I was ready to be all in. Andrea Gibson’s poetrymoves me,inspires me,motivates me,empowers me,speaks to me. Their words,as well as their partner’s,Megan Falley,have changed my life. So this film about Andrea…
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Summertime
Easing into summertime,electrified by a week of professional development in DC up first,embracing the freedom of flexibility for day trips, weekend trips, seeing friends, doing nothing,energizing my soul with time for hobbies and interests and WIMBLEDON,enjoying cherry season, both red and white varieties,exhaling structure and constraints,shrugging off a difficult and disappointing end to the school…
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Victimization
the processing of pain began with an insistent ache in my belly,not long after sharing a story of trauma with my daughter.i recognized it to be my body speaking to me,she who has only been given voice in my system in recent years.(embodiment is such a foreign conceptto one whose mind believes it is a…
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56
We’re both 56 this year,Henry and I!We are growing old together,loyal companions to the end.Henry came to mewhen I needed him most.It was after the divorce,after I bought my “sanctuary,”and filled it with intentionality,settling into a new rhythm with my daughters.Coming, going, here, there,a way of living that nearly tore my heart out.I saw them…
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Paintings
I’ve never been an artist,couldn’t draw, paint or sketch,though I admired the talent greatly,and always had the itch.Take a class, just give a try,my people would encourage,but I knew it was no use,and so I felt discouraged.Then during a winter visit,with my 20 something niece,I sat at the counter beside her,as she composed a lemon-y…
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the little things
all the luck and little things,nothing as rich as magic beans,noted in the moment, but then let go,nothing remains to even show.why dismiss them all so quick?why not pause and let them stick?for the big things always get the stage,the joy, the sadness and the rage,but when only glancing as they arose, the lucky moments…
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SADurday
Today I am sad.I don’t need to be cheered up.I don’t need to look at the bright side.I don’t need to get busy and distract myself.Today I am sad.And I want to be.My youngest has left,pulled away in her little “Bean” carpacked to the gills with her bags,clothes, new bedding, new pillows,a case of water,…
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Opportunity
I have an opportunity,It was delivered to me today. I think I will accept it,And put the process into play. For it seems to me the Universe, Conjured, created and aligned, Just so I could explore the thing, And see what I could find I’ve always been so curious, It’s been a hazy dream. But…
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Port Side Sighting
When a morning ferry ridebecomes whale watching?Perfection!Photo: Delaware Bay. Lewes-Cape May Ferry. 5.26.25
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Spring’s Last Showing
As Spring continues to deliver its blooms and blossoms, greens and grasses, wild weather and watery eyes,It also signals a change for our clan, as A moves into his 2nd year of residency, as G1 faces more job insecurity due to federal cuts, as T scrambles to pack out after a month of deployment, as…
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Tea
Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life. One simple thing I do every day that brings joy to my life is to choose a tea from my vast collection and make a pot of it to enjoy throughout the day or share with guests. I drink it from my favorite…
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Too Many Tabs
“Want to do a May Challenge?” my friend texted me at the end of April. She loves doing plank, push up or dietary challenges and always tries to rope me in for accountability (or because misery loves company, as I often counter!). “Friend,” I responded, “May IS the challenge!!”May was progress checking in the form…
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Allergy Season
First a sneeze, achoo!then a runny nose and headache -allergy season!Such a reactionto a stunning time of year,but that can’t stop me. Take my medicine,and enjoy the great outdoors,reap the rich rewards!photo: my favorite tissue box at school. 5.19.25 by LA
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Memorial Day
Today I think ofmy Army colonel grandfather who served in WWII,my “90 day wonder” Navy dad who served in WWII,my NJ Army National Guard ex-husband who served in Iraq,my Army father-in-law who served in WWII,my Coast Guard ensign son-in-law who serves on a ship in Newport,my Coast Guard ensign daughter who serves on a ship…
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Ode
oh, boardwalk french fries,so salty and delicious,you complete the day! Photo: Rehoboth Beach, DE. 5.25.25 by LA
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Beach
Seagulls squawk loudlyas they circle around ourpicnic on the beach. Photos: Rehoboth Beach, DE. 5.25.25 by LA & GHC
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Officers
Cadets dressed in white,Discipline, training, knowledge,Now become Ensigns. Cover Photo: New London, CT. 5.21.25 by LA Photo: Coast Guard Academy Commencement. 5.21.25 by Paul Duddy
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Last One
She’s the last one,Closing out an era Of having “dependents,”(Though my girls are anything but). It is bittersweet, this time, And I write often to mark it, To feel it, cherish it,Be present to it. Our last to “leave home,”To graduate college, To establish her own place And begin a new life. She’s the last…
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Commencement
We arrived late at nightTo our Airbnb,And fell into bed, But my mind couldn’t sleep.So much to pack in Over the next few days,Meals, parties, ceremony, And extended family. One final drill, On the great green lawn. Cadets in sharp uniforms,None daring to yawn! It made me tear up, As it usually does, Seeing their…
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Box of Chocolates
Oh, sweet box of chocolates,a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift,a mixed delight of inner surprises,coated in the very best milk and dark chocolatesin this immediate land.I lifted your lid today,and hovered my finger over each remaining gem,admiring your array of shapesand wondering what you held within,wishing for a winner!You’re a tricky one, Box of Chocolates,because although…
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Quiet Strength
She sent me a quote today,out of the blue,about quiet strength,saying she thought of me,that my grace is revolutionary.I read it with resonance,let the words wash over me,felt them echo from within me.I didn’t deny, decline or self deprecate.I accepted her words and this gift.She knows all too wellthat I have experienced pain, heartbreak, and…
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A Blessing for Myself
May I claim my little voice,May I speak with spirit and grace,May I convey what’s in my heart,May I trust my rightful place.May I conjure opportunities, and approach with confidence,May I connect with other people, and lower my self defense. May I cross pollinate new ideas, like a curious little bee,May I communicate with others,…
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I Gave Something Away Today
I gave something away today,something I once thought was magical,meaningful,symbolic of good times. I gave something away today,and didn’t feel much of anythingas I watched it disappear. There were no tears,no heart string tugs,no sadness or remorse,no regrets or misgivings.I gave something away today,and felt settled, centered, calm.I gave something away today,with high hopes for…
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Crochet Critters
My daughter loves to create…drawing and music when she was younger,then knitting as she got older.Lately, she’s been on a crocheting kickand she spends literally hours a day at it.She’s made blankets, sweaters,hats, and more hats.But my favorites are her little critters.She sends me pictures from school,I see them on her Instagram page,I watch her…
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Spring
Flowers in my yard,Come visit me every year,Very welcome guests.Photos: My yard. May 2025 by LA
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Birthday Beer
I have several good friends at work,Two who I knew before I began working at this school,and each year we wrack our brainsand up the creativity anteto buy each other the perfect,most “so you” gift we can come up withfor each other’s birthdays.We’re almost always successful,but it can be stressful,and we’re often late in our…
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Stream
After a long day at work,where emotions ran high,I needed a pick me up,To feel fortified.I knew just the place,A favorite of mine,The path by a stream,Would be just divine.I started my walk,no airpod or phone,I didn’t want company,Just to be all alone.I took in the sounds,and noticed the sights,my heart rate came down,my soul…
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Don’t Even Ask!
Have you ever had a day,like I had last week,where everything goes wrong,and the outlook is bleak?This day could have bugged me,one thing, then the next.Was the Universe against me,Had I been hexed?But far from annoying,this one made me laugh,one thing after another,inconvenient gaffes.I sent my friend pictures,as the events mounted up,to share my misadventures,and…
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Make Room for Nature
For so long, I’ve wanted to go to Longwood Gardens.30 years ago, I picked up my mother-in-lawand headed there in a torrential downpour.She got nervous and we pulled into Wendy’s and ate chili instead.This is actually hystericalbecause she was first generation Italian Americanand made everything from scratch at home.Restaurants never lived up to her standards,but…
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Mother’s Day
I celebrated Mother’s Day as I always do,so grateful to have a mother and be a mother.It’s been two and half years since I’ve lost mine,but today as I took my evening walk,I smelled her.I inhaled her scent so deeply into my lungs,and said hello.I told her some news and how I was doing,and told…
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Appreciation
Appreciation in so many formsduring Teacher Appreciation Week…a free coffee truck in front of the school,time in our classrooms instead of a faculty meeting,a make your own bouquet station,breakfast and lunch and snacks,chocolate and doughnutsand gift card raffles from the PTO.Lots of ways I felt appreciated as a teacher this week.And then there were these…hugs…
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Silence and Screaming
“There are many days I thirst for my own silencebut walk through the desert screaming instead” ~Andrea Gibson, “Queer Youth Are Five Times More Likely To Die By Suicide,” You Better be LightningI crave stillness and peace and silence,yet my mind is screaming and streaminga busy, noisy, staticy binge,until I let my body take the…
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Fog
Fog,Murky making,View forsaking,Driving through the clustered clouds,On a lazy, hazy morn. On a lazy, hazy morn,Driving through the clustered clouds, View forsaking, Murky making, Fog.
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Wonderful Weekend
Housefull ofyoung adultsfor the weekend…meals, games, meals, TV,pickleball many times,snacks, meals, naps, snacks, meals, repeat!Lots of laughter, lots of teasing,they fill the house with their energy.Nothing warms a mom’s heart like a full house.Myyoungestdaughter andher boyfriend andhis roommate and myson-in-law. A great mixof ages and of talents,from different backgrounds and places.So bittersweet to have them…
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Voting
Do you vote in political elections? YES! It is my privilege and right! I honor that privilege and protect that right by voting. Photo: Flemington, NJ. 11.22.20 selfie.
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Somewhere Right Now
Somewhere, right now, a woman is walking on cushiony clouds, each step bouncy and alive because a first date turned into a second and a third is in the books. Right now, she texts him to say she’ll bring dinner and writes a magazine-worthy description of his choices. “I just don’t feel like a woman…
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There was…
There was the the women’s dorm,where we first met, on the 5th floor. There was the academic building,where we took all our education classes together. There was the off campus townhouse,where we moved with friends. There were the jobs we accepted,two out of the five available in a district. There were the weddings,mine in the…
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For the Kids
My heart is rejoicing tonight!After seven long months of a budget crisis in our district,after 65 teachers have been let go,after 2 supervisors have been released,after we’ve lost our 6 Class III Officers,our reading and writing support staff,and our STEM teachers,after we’ve worried and fretted,after we’ve felt angry, despondent and demoralized,after months of upheaval that…
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Friends
One Tuesday afternoon,two friends had lunch together,discussing the merits of being singleat a time when so many of their peers are unhappily married,in abusive relationships, feeling restless, lacking a voiceor making themselves small.Terrain Cafe, Doylestown, PA. 4.22.25 by LAOne bright Sunday,two friends were walking alongside each other,taking in the sights and sounds of nature,swapping anecdotes…
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Tulips
A beautiful April day,A beautiful sister to share it with,A beautiful farm in Cream Ridge, New Jersey.Our Tulip Adventure began.Fields of brightly hued tulips,Some homogeneously planted in rows,Others a mix of colors and varieties.So many varieties! More than I knew existed!Wandering the farm,Watching family photos and selfies be taken,Noting the growing buckets of Pick Your…
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Spring Break
My Spring Break from school was unusually long this year and we didn’t lose any days to snow like we usually do. Typically, the travel bug would hit me and I’d be off somewhere. I’ve spent Spring breaks visiting my daughters in London, Bulgaria and Miami. But this year, I needed something else. I needed…
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The Birds, Act II
My favorite part of Springtime,It’s a highlight every year,On my two house porches,Birds’ nests do appear!I love to watch and listen,To their antics and their songs,See them fuss and flitter,As they feed their newborn throng.Photo: 4.21.25 by LA
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The Birds
Fear of birds began as a preschooler,when I was attacked by a blue jay in my yard.I ran screaming to the back door,the jay chasing and pecking at my head.Fear of birds continued.watching The Birds on the Thursday afternoon movie,as a way too young childand always cautiously checking the skyas I left the house!Fear of…
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My Mentor
It was September 1991.I had recently graduated from college,moved into an apartment with my best friend,and was starting my teaching career.So much new, so much exciting,so much scary!Enter Nancy.Teaching the same grade level,she quickly became my mentorwith her easy smile,endless patience,and solid teaching skills.She was my heroand I watched and listenedand questioned and emulated.Nancy and…
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Baltimore
Awalk atdusk, down bythe waterfront,past the boats and yachts,near the marshes and grass,through the parks packed with people,by the food trucks selling ice cream,taking in the sights with my daughter,a special moment for this grateful mom. Photos: Baltimore, MD. 4.20.25 by LA
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Pickleball!
Somehow my brother had missed the craze,despite being athletic and loving sports.But his daughter visiting from San Diegobrought it to him and he liked it.I arrived Friday night,and after dinner he asked if I wanted to go play.I keep a set in my car, so off we wentto some well lit courts by him.We had…
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Trivia Night
We gather at our table,And order up our drinks,We get our engines revving,And prepare to think, think, think. Friendly competition,With friends at tables close,Trading barbs and jabs,About who knows the most. The rounds come fast and furious,We panic and we fret,Birds and bees and baseball,It isn’t over yet!Do we have a plan?It’s certain that we…
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Easter
The morning dawned sunny,with a gentle breeze.Baskets and snacks were loaded into our cars,as my brother and I set off for the day.A quick stop at the train stationto grab my oldest,then a visit to my niece’s new home,and a walk along their backyard trailswith her husband and their dog.My oldest niece’s house was buzzingwhen…
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The Farm
“It’s smelly! I don’t want to go!” my great nephew exclaimed as he got out of the car. My niece had planned this day at the farm for all of us to gather, and knew her three year old would be delighted as he had been obsessed with farm animals since infancy. My brother and…
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Dinner
Myladies andI eat ata favorite place in town, on a random night,just because. We laugh, we share,we catch up on news and kids,jobs and pets, weekend plans, tips and tricks. We set aside this time, even when we’re busy,because nothing is more rewarding than the connection of friends. Photo: Flemington, NJ. 4.17.25 by LA
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Tension
What a frightful title!This is probably going to be adifficult, painful, angry, or worrisomepost about a tough time,a sad situation,or an uncomfortable union,you might be thinking.It is none of these.I read an amazing quotein a book the other day.Kendra Adachi, in The Lazy Genius,says, “…we can all lovingly and compassionatelyexist together in…tension.”What tension was she…
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Karim
There is a story in my area of the country that is devastating people, while also bringing out the activist in them. It’s because of Karim, a man blessed with a big heart and the gift of charisma. He enjoys people and as a server at a local restaurant, never misses an opportunity to chat,…
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Signs of Spring
Pop of color here,Star studded appearance there,Spring bursts boldly forth. Photos: Flemington, NJ. 4.6.25 by LA
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California Dreamin’
This year I chose Make Room for my word of the year, and have found so many ways to do so…from reading more books and listening to more podcasts, to poop scooping my backyard oasis to make it less hazardous, to joining a Body Pump exercise class with some amazing women (and one guy!).I’ve also…
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Beach Weekend With the Girls
Beach with the girls,These friends oh so dear,From north and from south,We meet up each year.We talk and we walk,And have much to eat,We play lots of games,This squad can’t be beat!On our third year,Of this time by the sea,We love it so much,It fills us with glee!Back at the start of COVID, I invited…
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Opportunity
Last week,I sat in a meetingwith my response to intervention teamand the mother of a young student.He had been struggling,but we had supplied him with many supports-physical and instructional and personal.He was making progress, finding success.Our translator conveyed this to Mom,who was quiet and serious.She seemed a bit overwhelmed with our collection of data and…
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The Lightness of Being
It’s been coming for some time, I can see that now.I sensed it now and then, yet…I didn’t note how the minutes became hours became days.I didn’t recognize the consistency and variations.I knew I felt peaceful, happy, content, alive, vibrant, tingly.But then it hit me, really hit me, last week.A regular Monday in March, nothing…
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Miami
Perhaps this trip will be my last,to the city of Miami.My daughter’s moving on from there,two years gone by in a flash.I hadn’t thought I’d like it much,the beach is not my scene.I thought it’d have a different vibe,but there’s so much natural green.My flight was smooth and super quick,it was so nice not to…
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Stream of Consciousness Couplets
SpringSpring, rebirth, a life anew,Shoots, buds and blossoms, too!DogsCrazy, awful, misbehaved,Their sweet faces get them waived.Hot FlashesBoil, redden, full on sweat,Menopause, you frequent threat!MiamiSunshine, beaches, spicy food,Summer clothes all brightly hued.TennisMarking play with game, set, match,Sampling Open’s signature batch.TravelCar, plane, shuttle, train,Gets me there, I can’t complain!LaundryWhites, darks, in betweens,Hate putting away when they’re clean.WalksHouses,…
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Peace and Ease
I am someone who seeks peace and easeand reminds myself frequentlythat no one can steal my peacewithout my permission.Most days that is effective,and I let go of what’s not mine to carry.Most days I can remain in equilibriumby using my wise mind.When a feeling hits me hard,I let it, without resisting.It’s amazing how fast it…
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Saturday Morning
It’s a Saturday morning,and the dogs and I have slept in,tucked beneath blankets,body to body,resting.We make our way downstairs,kibble for them, cereal for me,the tea kettle heating.I open the back door, letting them out for relief.I settle in to my book and bowl,content as always in this morning routine,when I glance up and notice Spencer,my…
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Self Narrative
These first signs of Spring, the buds, shoots, and blooms,Boldly step forward, upward, making their presence known.There’s a story they tell themselves, (as perhaps we all do),About who they are and what makes them tick.They have chosen their narrative, a story where they are lucky,And because of that outlook, they see the opportunities.Is that why…
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Motherhood
Take 1 cup of Mama Bear love, the kind where you would lay down your own life to protect theirs.Take 2 dollops of awe, the kind where you just can’t fathom these little people, full of their own thoughts, feelings, opinions and talents.Add 3 pinches of rituals, the kind that included Friday night pizza and…
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Gardens
What is this beautiful thing that’s happening? Where there has always been politeness, Laughter, shared memories, and care.There is something else blooming.Is it symbolic that we met here? Our first sister get together, No kids, no mom, just us.In a place full of blooms and growth?Why do things happen when you stop trying? Maybe because…
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Henry and Spencer
Ev’ry sunny day starts with a salutationby the East window where Henry and Spencer take in the glorious warmth.Photos: Flemington, NJ. 3.9.25 by LA
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My Heart is Broken Tonight
My heart is broken tonight,as it seems on both a local and national scale,that my beloved field of education is being attacked.My district,short 4-6 million dollars,put a vote out to the publicto raise taxes in support of our students, programs, employees, and teachers.It was rejected.The cuts that have already begun,will continue tomorrow and in the…
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Raven Recipe
Yet another poem I wrote following the recipe structure during my 4th Grade Poetry Club time. Take 1 cup of unconditional love, the way you always greeted me like you were throwing me a surprise party, complete with wagging tail and dancing front paws.Take 2 dollops of devotion, the way you followed me everywhere, like…
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Red Glasses
More poetry written during my 4th Grade Poetry Club time, experimenting with a structure of repetition. Red glasses, resting on the bridge of my nose.Red glasses, purchased at my beloved Costco.Red glasses, progressive prescription helping me see near, far and in between, framing my eyes with this favored color of mine, fun and free and…
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Little Pink Nail
Earlier this week, my 4th grade writers and I played with repetitive poems. This is a silly one I wrote about a day last summer when my tip fell off.Little pink nail, where did you go?Little pink nail, your family misses you, all nine of us!Little pink nail, were you tired of being part of…
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These Desks
Today my 4th grade writers and I tried a repetitive poem. Here was one I created to share with them.These desks wrought from metal, carved from woodThese desks office to 4th graders, year after yearThese desks that have seen writers, readers, scientistsThese desks that have been tapped on, kicked, and stuffed to the gillsThat have…
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Too Hot!
Another little gem from my Summer School writer’s notebook…HotSummerWith no break!Too hot to play,Too hot to kayak,Too hot to be outside.I don’t like to be so hot!I prefer the Fall or SpringWhen the temperature is cooler.I hope this heat wave breaks by this weekend!Photo: Niagara Falls, 8.30.19 by JR
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Tuesday
A little acrostic poem my summer school students and I wrote last July… Today we willUse our brains toEnhance ourSkills and strategies toDevelop and achieveAll we can to prepare for nextYear!Found it in my notebook and thought it was sweet!Photo: Summer School Trip, 7.26.23 by LA
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The Final Say
“You will always have the final say in which experiences you choose to control and consume your life.” ~DodinskyMy friend’s husband always says, “Don’t allow people to take up space in your head rent free.” It always makes me smile because it’s said with love and concern for me when I am trying to make…
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Stillness
“You get lost when you are always doing things in urgency. Find a moment of stillness; give your heart a chance to tell you where you really need to be.” ~Dodinsky Goodness, yes! That message was meant for me! I can be so busy…working, cleaning, organizing, exercising, talking on the phone, seeing friends, writing, reading,…
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Sparkle
“It’s wonderful when you bring SPARKLE into people’s lives without allowing your true colors to fade.” ~DodinskyI love this idea so much! I’ve never been much of a sparkly dresser, but I’ve come to love that word to describe a personality or presence! Recently, I bought a magnet in New Hope to have in my…
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Bend to Fit
“If you lose someone because you didn’t fit the kind of person they would like you to be, you were able to KEEP something far more precious, your dignity.” ~DodinskyI love and embrace and am coming to embody this principle. In addition to dignity, I would also say you keep your identity.I think discernment and…
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Real Friendship
“A real friendship will give you that sense of “belongingness.” When you think the world has abandoned you, there’s that someone who helps you see your worth and makes you feel that you always matter to them.” ~DodinskyNext to my children (who are becoming more like friends the older they get), my friendships are my…
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Forgiveness
“It does not mean giving people the license to hurt you over and over again. It is simply an act of releasing the pain others may have caused and remembering never to let them take away your peace again.” “When you forgive…You’re simply creating a spot for inner peace to settle in your heart.” ~Dodinsky…
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Peace of Mind
“Don’t feel bad removing people who love to create their own chaos. Your allegiance is to your peace of mind…” “You are always given the opportunity to make someone feel appreciated…When it comes to kindness, nothing is ever small.” ~Dodinsky Once again, I combined parts of two different quotes to reflect on. I liked the…
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Authenticity
“Don’t let anything dissuade you from blooming into the person you are meant to be.””Do not let the waves of doubt wash away your authentic self.”~DodinskyI chose to shorten one quote by taking just the last sentence and combine it with the quote on the next page for today’s reflections.I have spent the vast majority…
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Endurance
“You must endure the trying times and believe the best times are coming.” ~DodinskyThe best times are coming,I know that is true,For they’re already here,With each day anew.I’m living life fully,I’m happy to say,Filled with such gratitude,Every dang day!It starts with my children,My three grown up girls,Out carving their own lives,Improving our world.It extends beyond…
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Hope
“Today, let hope be the clever thief that steals you away from the arms of despair.” Hope over despairIs found in the littlest of ways… A walk in quiet woods Smiling at an overwhelmed parentPlaying peekaboo with a childPhoning a friendDrinking teaLaughing out loud at a funny showAttending an art showWatching a play or musicalListening…
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Flexibility
At the beginning of the month, I chose a daily practice that entailed reading an entry from a book and writing about it each day, posting here on this site. The first 7 days went really well. I was consistent and diligent – reading, writing, posting. Then I took a trip out to Colorado to…
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Loyalty
Your LOYALTYis to people whouplift and enhance your life.It is never to peoplewho return your kindnesswith harm and injuryto your soul.~ Dodinsky Truth.Truth.Truth.I wrote a poem once about loyaltyAnd gave it to someone I loved very much.He read it, complimented it,Even agreed with it.But loyalty was not in his vernacular.I have a friendWho can be…
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Serendipity
It’s perfectly fineto be momentarily lost and drifting,a lot of great discoveries are sometimes due topredestined stumbles.It is one of life’s unexpected butBEAUTIFUL TWISTSon how to discover your true self.~DodinskyI have always loved a plan,setting goals for the month, year, future,and working toward them,to feel safe and comfortable.I have always loved control,doing my best to…
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Peacekeeper
Let go of the hurt.Let go of the anger.Also, let go of the people who habituallybring them into your life.You are your own peacekeeper. ~DodinskyAs a child, anger was not a normalized emotion in my house. My father had a short temper (never at us), but my mother hummed around as if nothing at all…
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Dance Dream
Last night was magical! I got to experience a childhood dream, surrounded by family. As a young girl, I was enthralled by Alvin Ailey and his American Dance Theater. I didn’t take dance, nor did anyone in my family, but I loved it as an art form. I saw glimpses of Ailey and his dancers…
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Your Pain is Your Strength
Someday…your pain will becomethe source of your strength.Face it.Brave it.You will make it.~DodinskiWhat you resist, persists,as the saying goes,and the lessons we don’t learn,will keep repeating until we do. Are these sayings trite?Untrue? Cliche?I don’t believe so,and have often found comfortin their reassuring messages of strength, resilience and the ability to change and overcome.My pain…
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Walking Away
A lot of walking away will do your life good.Walk away from arguments that lead you to anger and nowhere.Walk away from people who deliberately put you down.Walk away from the practice of pleasing people who choose to never see your worth.Walk away from any thought that undermines your peace of mind.Walk away from judgmental…
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Love Within Your Own Heart
May you fall into your own arms.May you speak the words you need to hear.May you have gratitude with each breath.May you build your dreams with faith. May you embrace your soul with kindness.May you bring wisdom from your past.May you choose peace instead of anger. May you see the light in your darkest night.…
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Fill Your Own Bucket
“You have to love yourself because no amount of love from others is sufficient to fill the yearning that your soul requires from you.” ~Dodinsky In speaking with Jennifer, my therapist, about my past relationships, she shared something so impactful that I immediately sketched it in my journal. She had me imagine that we are…
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Making Room in January, Part 2
I’ve MADE ROOM in the second half of the month for: 1. writing poetry and exploring new structures without self judgment.2. taking a photo walk. 3. a weekly donation bag.4. bringing the poetic structure to my writing group and enjoying where each woman took the prompt and how they expressed themselves.5. pleasure. 6. a night…
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Writefully Hers
They arrive,singly or in pairs,with hugs and baked goods,shedding outerwear andcongregating in my kitchen,catching up, enjoying snacks,choosing their tea,always the tea.Eventually this tribe of writersmoves to the couches,tucked in hip to hip,shoulder to shoulder,around the coffee table,before the fire,beginning the night by sheddingthe burdens of the day or week,relieving the mind of what is pressing,and…
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Grief and Fear
Grief for what we’ve lost,fear for what we have,crushing, heavy, heart breaking,how do we find hope?Brittney Cooper and Rebecca Traistergive me some light,saying that these times aren’t unprecedented,we have been here before,and we have endured,moving forward slowly, achingly.And so we must use what we have learnedto accept the defeatand keep going.We must release our rage,…
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snowfall
snow fallsfrom beneath a silver skywith flakes as large as cornflakeswhirling, swirling, twirlingin a choreographed waltzpast my windowno hustle or bustlerushing out for milk or eggsthe world is strangely silentas though we are all wrappedin this blanket of peace and serenitynature whispers, “pause, be stilldelight in this momentstay inside awhilebe gentle with yourself and one…
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A Toast
At an event with a dear friend,At a coffee shop with my youngest,At a stop on a rail trail with my oldest,At a cozy nursery in the country with friends,At a pop up dinner with my Writefully Hers group,At the U.S. Open with my fellow tennis-loving daughter,At a spring beach getaway weekend with my Pod…
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Maybe Someone Can Relate
Wednesday Night Me was fired up,invigorated by the live match on tv,monitoring the scores of other matches on my app,and swapping tennis texts with my daughter.”It’s getting late,” a niggling thought jabbed,but I ignored it, because nothing is better than Grand Slam tennis.”It’s only for these two weeks,” I reasoned,”and then I’ll sleep.”Thursday Morning Me…
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AO
It’s the first slam of the year,Australian Open time is here!My daughter and I are psyched,Our texts flying left and right!We look at daily brackets,Share our picks for winning racquets!On tv and through the app,I scream and cheer and clap!There’s all my favorite ones,Who serve, return and run!And then new ones, respect earned,Like American Peyton…
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I am Woman
I am Woman,strong and limitless,not seeking to be frictionless,I’m full of life’s complexity,contradictions and simplicity,I yearn and long and dream,loving kindness is my theme, I stretch and reach and push,I am capable of so much,I’m not afraid to show up,and from within I always glow up,I AmWoman.Photo: Evergreen, CO. 6.29.23 by LA
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Sons
I loved having three girls,No secret hopes for a boy,Never wondered what it would be like to have sons,Always so content to have the exact family I did,Happy for their closeness,And the convenience of passing down clothes.I never gave much thought to sons at all,Until now,Until my two daughters chose wonderful men,Kind, thoughtful, bright, hard…
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Illuminate
I set my intentions,Align with my values,Turn my feet in the direction I wish to go,And see the path illuminate before me.The first step is bright and prominent,And I do not falter or question,But rather step boldly.But the way beyond is less obvious,Dimmer, shrouded in shadows,There, but not direct.Looking ahead (always looking ahead!!),The path diverges,Casting…
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Orchids
Petals so soft and sumptuous,Colors delight and astound,Such variety of shape, size and brilliance,But it is the center that grabs my attention,Makes me lean in for closer study,For within is both the masculine and feminine,And I am in awe of the structure and function.Photo: Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA. 1.11.25 by LA
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Words
Word of the Year!So much power inside,The ability to guide,Influence, inspire,Set the tone, light the fire.Lay down the bricks,Look at my picks,Which resonate and speak,Or come and find me?I must be discerning,Evaluate my journey.Grace? That’s most days,And in so many ways.Is unlimited a good bet?Nope, I’m not ready yet.Rebellion’s too vague,Let it be is underway.Make…
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Lift a Line
I’m nearly bursting at the seams,(At last that’s how it seems),So many ideas and thoughts,Some of which are fraught(!),I read and write and think,Run experiments in my sink,Puzzle, call and talk,Run and lift and walk,The excitement in me grows,And the inspiration flows,My Self is coming clear,Envisioning more this year,I don’t know what it means,But I’m…
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Last Year’s Language
For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. T.S. EliotI had a language last year,with words likelove, life, trust, work,and it brought me joy, peace, fulfillment,until it didn’t,because the ground shifted,and those things were tarnished,tainted, taken from me,like it or not.This year,a new voice emerges,bubbling up from…
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Strength Feels Like Weakness
Strength feels just like weakness…Suffering through the struggle,Grappling with giving up,Concerned about capability,Fearing failure,Wondering about worthiness,Dwelling on discomfort,Skeptical of success,Brooding over a body giving out…Strength feels just like weakness,Except you don’t quit!While in my exercise class tonight, we were doing chest presses to Chase & Status’ song, “Spoken Word”, when I heard this line: “Being…
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Make Room Acrostic
Making space for dreams anew,Allowing life to break on through,Keeping faith with each new day,Embracing change along the way.Resist the urge to doubt or fight,Open my eyes and heart alike,Overcoming fear, I’ll rise,Making room for sweet surprise!
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Make Room
When choosing my Word of the Year this year, it was my therapist who suggested one to me.She noted that a word I used frequentlywas Grace.I had to agree, because I have worked hard in the past decadeto extend grace to myselfin the form of self forgiveness, self acceptance,and self love.I extend grace to others,extending…
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Her Birthday
We remembered Mom today,On this day after Christmas,A birthdate she detested,As it often got overlooked,Lumped in with the holiday,Not its own separate celebration,Frequently with a dual gift. I visited her resting place,Nestled in a beautiful garden,Next to a grove of trees,Beside her beloved church,In company with her husband,And daughter-in-law,Whose deaths preceded hers.We stood,Knelt, hugged, cried,As…
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LOVE
Has this sculptor captured it?The mysterious, complex concept,That some say is a feeling,Others argue is an action,And still others suggest is a choiceMade daily.This couple,Their bodies all lean muscle and beautiful lines,Touching, hands clasped,Connected, forming an undeniable heart,The symbol for love,Facing separate directions,Claiming their individuality,Yet demonstrating their deep trust in one another,Heads thrown back in…
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My Soul is a Garden
My soul is a garden,Self beliefs are the seeds,Some become flowers,While others become weeds.My defects and flaws,When accepted with grace,Allow self forgiveness,And blooms in the space.But when I am harsh,And self criticize,Weeds multiply quickly,And they jeopardizeThe beauty around me,In my garden of life,So I’ll tend to my thoughts,And reduce the strifeThat comes when resisting,Controlling the…
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Happiest
When are you most happy? I am happiest when I am living in alignment and gratitude and am mindful in the moment. I am blessed with friendships I’ve cultivated throughout my life, evolving relationships with my amazing daughters as they transition into adulthood, a supportive family, a job I love and witness the impact of…
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Tattoo
It’s a joke with my girls,That I’ll get a tattoo,When I’m seventy five,And decide which to do!I have all these rules,About what I can get,It has to have meaning,So I’ll have no regrets.People say once you start,You’re unable to stop,I just want one good one,But tend to flip flop.Should it honor my girls,So be something…
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White Elephant
It was a great weekend,So special and sweet,Spent with my family,In Washington, DC.The best choice I made,Was to ride on the train,I read a whole book,The free time felt insane!Met at the station,By my older brother,We went out to shop,Just like my mother!Gifts for his grandkids,I bought sweet little clothes,Dinosaur stuffies,And socks with rainbows.Then on…
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French Toast
I’d been wanting and craving,This decadent treat,My childhood favorite,A breakfast so sweet!Mom made it for dinner,When Dad was away,Eggs, milk and cinnamon,The Wonder Bread way!I’d been eyeing the menus,In each different city,Drooling over ingredients,And toppings so pretty.I finally found it,The one I would try,At a place in Atlanta,So peaches beside!Brioche and pecans,Made this dish rich,I…
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The Tiny Boat
Tossed and turnedon the choppy current,the small paper boatstraightens her bow and stern,raises her mast higher,and allows her sail to capture the wind.She is aware she appears fragile,and that many doubt she can handle the journey,but she knows what they do not-she is an experienced navigator, having ridden the ripples,braved the breakers,crossed the channels,weathered the…
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Flow
Lodgedthereis anobstacle,impeding the pathof the rising, rushing water.Floworbe stuck?The waterhas a choice to makeas it encounters the blockage.Itturns,detours,makes a change,as we sometimes mustdo, in order to move forward.Photo: Clinton, NJ. 12.7.24 by LA
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By the River
Tall,wise,knowing,the old treewatched Fall fade away,felt Winter’s blustery arrival.A Fibonacci poem with 6 lines, consisting of the syllable pattern 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8.Photo: Clinton, NJ. 12.7.24 by LA
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One Room Schoolhouse
During my visit to the Red Mill Museum and Winter Village,I was delighted to see this one room schoolhouse.Named the Bunker Hill School House,it resided in Alexandria Township as of 1860.In 1974, it was moved to Clinton and restored,giving me a glimpse into my profession over 150 years ago.The year it opened, there were 50…
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Exercise
What are your favorite physical activities or exercises? I have so many physical activities and exercises that I love that I can’t choose just one! I walk every single day. In good weather, I walk outside. morning, noon and/or night. I walk around my neighborhood, around town, and drive to paths and trails. When I…
The Journey Inward 