Just finished this awesome book, Tomorrow River by Lesley Kagen. A real page turner that made me feel like I was in the story watching the characters up close.

A Monster Has Moved in

He pops in and out without warning, but no one can miss his arrival. Growling, teeth bared, brow furrowed, eyes slit with burning focus, his wrath is unpredictable.

Anyone in his path beware. Anything within his reach can become a painful weapon flung in your direction when he is angry. His tiny stature is misleading. His head only reaches my waist, but he can make the whole house tremble when he stomps his little foot and lets out that high pitched sound that rings in your ears.

Bridge Battle

This story touched me in so many ways. It gave me the opportunity to use my profession to put a spotlight on a need in the community, and I learned there are still so many good people willing to help others. I was blessed to meet Joe, a 79 year old Army vet, riddled with health problems, with an unwavering faith in God, and a big heart.

Recent News Views

It's been a busy month, but here is a brief synopsis of some of the stories, in no particular order, I have been working on and the things that stood out for one reason or another:

1. Head Start= No Jail time: Local DA reads to kids in a Head Start program to show support for maintaining federal and state funds for Pre-K programs. He says these programs can be key in helping kids learn to read, which in turn can keep them out of jail. Who knew?

Relaxation Station

Want to feel the stress of the world lift away from your body one muscle at a time...  lay in a hammock. I had forgotten how relaxing this little invention is. My husband and I both have stressful jobs, and busy lives, so when I was trying to think of the perfect Father's Day gift this year, I wanted to do something different. For the man that has everything, the gift of stress relief. To my surprise, I have enjoyed it as much as him, maybe even more. Just tonight, our 2-year-old was fussy and I asked if he wanted to go outside and get in the hammock. We relaxed there looking up at the dusky sky, and birds flying in a perfect V formation. It was a sweet mommy-son bonding moment and immediately seemed to relax us both. I think it's the best Father's Day present I've ever purchased myself... I mean my wonderful husband.

Family Ties That Bind - DivineCaroline

Family Ties That Bind - DivineCaroline

This one is about my journey into genealogy research. It was fun and fascinating. I can't wait to learn more.

Deadly Tornadoes Twist News Judgement - DivineCaroline

Deadly Tornadoes Twist News Judgement - DivineCaroline

This is an article I wrote for the online magazine Divine Caroline. It is a wonderful place for aspiring writers to get their feet wet, or established writers to share their work. It's mostly a women's magazine, but they do have a few articles submitted by men too. Check it out.

The Journey Begins

Some days it may be a calm walk down a flower lined trail, where we take time to stop and admire the beauty of our surroundings, reflecting on the gifts life is serving up. More often it will be a rugged hike through the mountains, stopping to catch our breath or doctor the cuts and bruises we get along the way. Sometimes it will be an exhilarating roller coaster ride that both excites and scares us half to death. Whatever the journey, thanks for being my travel companion, and don't just sit there or quietly follow. Let me know how you feel, what you like and what you don't about this, my first step into the Blogosphere. Let the fun begin.