This year, I found a group of women like me. We feel like we are the only ones. It seems like nobody gets us like the ones who've been where we are. It's a secret group. Definitely not one any of us wanted to need.I try to post encouragement there. Because so few of us feel encouraged.I hope to bring hope to somebody. Because our situations seem hopeless.Here's what I posted this morning:"Good morning, Mamas. I'm on the other side of this mountain of hurt. Still wading... more

Before I dive into the deep end of this next (one-sided-unless-you-comment) conversation, let me thank y'all for your support. Several of you helped me during a scary, unexpected financial situation. I appreciate you. I'm grateful when you read my words, whether you respond with buying a coffee or not. But when you buy enough to help me pay bills, I just wanna shout from the rooftops:THANK YOU SO MUCH.Thank you for following me.For reading.For responding. For... more

Facebook memories reminded me that April 28, 2020 was my last day of working for Pre-scholar Enrichment. I enjoyed that job. It was meaningful. And good pay. I'd still be there if not for Covid. I can't return to that job because I was replaced. I collected unemployment until it ran out in December. I'm surviving because a friend helps out when possible, I have this blog, I sell stuff, and the girls and I live with my parents. Many others have it worse. My... more

Dear Friends,I'm trying. I'm trying to get back on the blogging track. I'm trying...more than it seems. Hmmm… That's a bit harsh. Maybe those words are more for me than you. Because I'm frustrated, even angry, with myself.I haven't honored my word. I haven't kept to my schedule. I haven't written much of anything since the day I said I would be more consistent. Maybe you don't care--not that you're... more