lifestyle

Soft Is Not a Weakness—It’s a Revolution

4 Comments / boundaries, self-sovereignty /

Why letting yourself be soft is the boldest move a strong woman can make For Black and Latinx women, softness was never sold to us as a birthright.We were taught—by women who loved us fiercely—that softness could be dangerous.That the world wouldn’t treat us gently, so we had to be ready.Sharp. Smart. Strong. Silent when necessary.Because being “too soft” might get us dismissed. Or hurt. Or broken. They didn’t teach us this to harm us—they taught us this to protect us.Their love showed up in lessons that kept us safe in a world that too often didn’t see us as soft, human, or whole. So we got good at being hard.At walking into rooms with our shoulders squared and our edges polished.At being useful. Reliable. Unbreakable. But here’s what I’ve come to know:Just because they handed us armor doesn’t mean we have to wear it every day.We can honor what protected them, and still make adjustments to meet the moment we’re in. We are allowed to evolve the blueprint.We are allowed to soften. Softness, Redefined Softness doesn’t mean weakness.It doesn’t mean shrinking.It means choosing peace over performance.It means prioritizing your nervous system instead of your résumé.It means being grounded enough to say, “I don’t have to prove anything today. I just get to be.” Softness is sovereignty.And stepping into it as a high-achieving woman? That’s not a retreat—it’s a revolution. How to Be Soft Without Losing Your Power Here are 7 unique and culturally grounded ways to access the soft life that go beyond bubble baths and vision boards: Because rest isn’t always a nap, and softness doesn’t have to look like lace and lavender. 1. Let the email/text go unanswered—on purpose. Not forever. Just long enough to remind yourself that urgency isn’t your identity.Softness says, “I saw it. I’ll get to it… after I get to me.” Try this: Instead of rushing to respond, pause and ask, “Am I answering this because I want to or because I feel guilty?” If it’s guilt, go light a candle instead. 2. Schedule a “Do Absolutely Nothing” Hour… and guard it like it’s Beyoncé tickets. Softness isn’t just rest—it’s resistance to the urge to perform.So what do you do when the itch to be productive hits? You notice it, name it, and stay put.Try this: Lay on the floor. Watch the ceiling fan spin. Count how many times your brain tries to make a to-do list. Then whisper to yourself, “Not right now, boo.” 3. Step back from being the fixer, the planner, or the backbone—just for a little while. Let someone else be the responsible one. Let the potato salad be too salty. Let the group text stay ungrouped. But what about the guilt?Whew. It’ll show up, yes. But here’s the reframe:You’re not abandoning anyone. You’re modeling balance.You’re teaching folks that the strong one can be soft, too. 4. Stop explaining your rest to people who still believe grinding is a personality trait. Let’s be real: Everyone’s not ready for your soft era—and that’s okay.You don’t owe an explanation. You owe yourself peace. Soft script: No is complete. So is silence. 5. Eat the good mango… alone. You know the one—perfectly ripe, juicy, and dripping sunshine.Usually, you give it away because “somebody else might want it.” This time? You light a candle, slice that thing up, and enjoy it with both hands. Softness is learning to choose joy without splitting it in half. 6. Build a Boundary Playlist. Songs that remind you of who you are when you’re soft, centered, and not playing with your peace. Your soft life soundtrack might include: Hit play when guilt creeps in, when boundaries feel shaky, or when you need to realign with your softness. 7. Let someone else open the jar—literally and metaphorically. Listen, you can do it yourself. You always have.But softness whispers, “You don’t have to.” Let the person offer to help. Let your friend show up. Let your partner make the plan. And here’s the thing, even if it’s not perfect, let it be. Your Soft Era Deserves a Strategy. Choosing softness is bold. But sustaining it? That takes intention. If you’re tired of leading with exhaustion, holding everyone’s emotions, or feeling like peace has to wait until you finish everything else… it’s time to rewrite that script. Let’s map out your soft life—on your terms, with joy, boundaries, and clarity at the center. ✨ Book your complimentary clarity callYou don’t need to hustle for healing. You just need a plan that honors your softness.

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Wintering: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Do It Right

4 Comments / Wellness /

Let’s talk about wintering, shall we? No, it’s not just about bundling up in your fluffiest blanket and waiting for spring (although I fully support that move). Wintering is about thriving during life’s quieter, slower seasons—whether those seasons show up in your calendar or your soul. It’s the ultimate act of self-care and self-awareness, where you pause, adapt, and recharge instead of pushing through like a frozen robot. And before you roll your eyes and think, “Sounds like some new-age nonsense,” let me tell you—wintering has been around forever. Our ancestors were out here wintering before it was cool (or, you know, before there was central heating). So grab your tea, your journal, or maybe even your favorite cozy socks, and let’s dig into how to winter well—because the cold isn’t the only thing that demands preparation. So, What Is Wintering, Anyway? Wintering is the art of slowing down—on purpose. It’s about leaning into life’s pauses instead of fighting them. Imagine you’re a tree in winter (stay with me here). You don’t see trees out here panicking about losing their leaves, do you? Nope. They’re saving energy, chilling out, and quietly preparing for their next season of growth. Historically, wintering meant survival—stocking up food, chopping firewood, and trying not to freeze your face off. Today, wintering is less about survival and more about sanity. It’s about creating space for rest and reflection during life’s naturally slower periods. The modern version of wintering is like a spa day for your soul, but with more soup and fewer cucumber slices on your eyes. Wintering OGs: How Our Ancestors Mastered the Art of Slowing Down Once Upon a Frosty Time…Back before Amazon Prime and DoorDash, winter was all about survival. People weren’t just sitting around in Snuggies waiting for the snow to melt. Oh no. They were grinding—preserving food, gathering firewood, and praying their supply of candles would last through the dark months. Different cultures had their own take on wintering: Wintering wasn’t just about survival—it was about resetting, connecting, and finding the magic in life’s quieter moments. Pause, Sis: Why Slowing Down Is the New Power Move Here’s the tea: We live in a world that glorifies being busy. If you’re not doing the absolute most, people assume you’re doing nothing. But wintering flips that toxic hustle culture on its frosty little head. It says, “Slow down, sis. You’re human, not a machine.” Wintering matters because it gives us permission to rest without guilt. It’s about learning to see slower seasons as opportunities, not obstacles. And here’s the thing: Wintering isn’t about hibernating. You’re not a bear (even if you’ve been eyeing that cozy cave vibe). You’re not shutting down or hiding away; you’re engaging with life in a different way. Think of wintering as hitting “refresh” instead of “pause.” It’s about knowing when to lean back and take stock of what’s working—and what’s not. It’s about letting go of what doesn’t serve you, whether that’s clutter, commitments, or even a bad habit of doomscrolling. Wintering is your chance to pivot, recharge, and get back to the heart of what matters. And here’s the best part: Wintering isn’t just for snow bunnies or people with fireplaces and perfectly curated hot cocoa moments. It’s for everyone. Feeling stressed? Slow down. Feeling uninspired? Reflect. Feeling overwhelmed? Stop pushing and rest. You don’t need a snowstorm or subzero temperatures to lean into wintering. All you need is a willingness to honor your natural rhythms instead of fighting them. By letting yourself slow down, even just a little, you’ll find clarity, strength, and a whole new perspective. And honestly? That lesson is worth more than all the hot chocolate in the world (though we’ll gladly take the hot chocolate too). The Chill Benefits: Why Wintering Is Self-Care on Steroids Let’s talk benefits, because wintering isn’t just about feeling warm and fuzzy—it’s about thriving in ways you didn’t think possible. 1. Mental and Emotional Health Slowing down isn’t lazy; it’s necessary. Wintering lets you clear your mental clutter, process emotions, and actually feel your feelings (yes, even the messy ones). You can journal, meditate, or just sit in silence without doomscrolling social media. 2. Physical Health Your body needs a break too. Wintering encourages you to rest, recharge, and maybe even lean into some seasonal self-care. Soups, stews, yoga in your living room—it’s all fair game. And let’s not forget the power of sleep. Darkness falls early for a reason, so take the hint and catch those Z’s. 3. Environmental Vibes Wintering naturally aligns with sustainability. You’re consuming less, reusing more, and living in harmony with the season. Plus, turning down the thermostat and rocking your favorite sweater is good for the planet and your energy bill. Winter Like a Boss: Your Guide to Slowing Down in Style Ready to embrace wintering? Here’s how to do it with intention and maybe a little flair: 1. Build Your Cozy Command Center Design your home to feel like walking into a warm, honey-dipped hug. Think blankets so soft they make you question every other fabric choice in your life, candles that smell like fresh-baked cookies (or a forest retreat if that’s your vibe), and lighting that whispers, “You deserve this.” Got a favorite mug for hot cocoa, tea, or whatever keeps your soul glowing? Put it on repeat. Deck out your space with all the vibes that scream you, turning it into your own personal cocoon of comfort and charm. 2. Reflect and Reset Picture this: a quiet corner by the window, soft morning light streaming through, a journal open in your lap, and your thoughts spilling onto the page. This isn’t homework—it’s therapy on paper. What’s lighting you up? What’s dragging you down? What do you want to let go of? What do you want to embrace? No judgment, no pressure, just a moment to hit pause and recalibrate. It’s your chance to Marie Kondo your life—mentally and emotionally—while sipping something warm and dreamy. 3. Fuel Your

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From Worry to Wonder

2 Comments / joy, mindset /

Simple Habits for an Abundance Mindset Have you ever felt stuck in that scarcity loop, where all you can think about is what you don’t have? You know what I am talking about. For me it hits after doom scrolling and wistfully and voyeuristically taking in what other people are doing on the interwebs. And you know that I know that they are only showing a snapshot but I still find myself wondering what I am doing wrong. You’re not alone. Our minds can be our biggest obstacle, constantly pointing out what’s missing instead of celebrating what we already have. But there’s another way to think that frees you from the prison of doom—the abundance mindset. It works. I tried it and it made all the difference. And lately life has been giving me many opportunities to practice. It’s all about appreciating the small things. The first sip of my ginger lemon tea in the morning, the feel of the sun on my skin as I water the plants, or being able to lounge in bed on Saturday mornings. Those simple joys make my whole day brighter. That’s the power of an abundance mindset. It’s more than positive thinking; it’s a lifestyle change that has transformed my entire world. Imagine moving through life knowing that there’s enough for everyone, including you. That’s what an abundance mindset is all about. It’s not just about money or material things—it’s about how you view the world and your place in it. When you adopt an abundance mindset, it changes the way you see opportunities, set goals, and handle challenges. Abundance vs. Scarcity: What’s the Difference? An abundance mindset says, “There’s always more where that came from,” while a scarcity mindset whispers, “There’s never enough.” People who embrace abundance see endless possibilities and know that success isn’t a pie where someone else’s slice makes theirs smaller. They celebrate others and believe that there’s room for everyone to win. But if you’re in that scarcity mindset? Whew, it can make you feel like you’re constantly in competition or that you’re going to run out of what you need. That kind of thinking leads to decisions made out of fear—whether it’s in relationships, your career, or even with yourself. Sometimes our scarcity mindset are leftovers from traumatic experiences, so don’t beat up on yourself. Decide what you can commit to changing and let’s make it happen. Why Cultivate an Abundance Mindset? When you embrace an abundance mindset, it doesn’t just change your thoughts—it transforms your life. Here are some of the benefits: Daily Habits to Build Your Abundance Mindset Of course you can’t just flip a switch to go from scarcity to abundance—it takes time and small, daily changes. But do not fret, I’ve got you covered. Here are some practical habits to get you started. 1. Gratitude Journaling Start your day by writing down three things you’re grateful for. It could be something as simple as the warmth of your morning sun or a kind word from a loved one. This habit is like training your brain to notice abundance, and over time, you’ll start to see more of it. As I have share before I am not a journaler but I know that it can be a really valuable tool. I prefer to wake up joyfully. I focus the first few moments of my day on things I am grateful for. I say my prayers when I wake up and say thank you for another wake up. I say good morning to Rodney and then I start humming a song that makes me happy. By the time it’s time to water the plants I start naming the things I am grateful for and if its sunny I spend a few minutes letting it warm my skin. That makes for a morning that sets me up for success and starts my day with joy. 2. Setting and Achieving Goals Goals are your road map to an abundant life. But don’t just set any goals—set ones that align with what really matters to you. So many of us are recovering people pleasers. It is important to take a moment to make sure that the goals we set are aligned to our purpose. When you have the aligned goals, break them down into smaller steps and tasks. Every time you complete one of the steps, celebrate because this creates momentum and reminds you that your goals are within reach. I am lucky to have Carol in my orbit who does the breaking down of the tasks for me because my brain is always thinking about multiple things at a time. If your brain is like mine there are all kinds of apps and software that can help you. The point of breaking it down is to make it achievable so that it goes from being a dream to being a goal. 3. Keep Learning Learning something new keeps your mind open and engaged with the world. Whether it’s reading a book, watching a documentary, or picking up a new hobby, continuous learning shows you that there’s always more to explore. Not to mention that it is good for your brain. Lately I have been learning a lot about gardening. I have killed some, but I have grown more than I killed. I am not trying to become a master gardener, I am just trying to learn more about nurturing and caring for plants that make my space more beautiful. I am also learning a ton about launching a new business, and building a brand. The joy for me is in the learning and I have noticed that keeping my focus on learning has changed the way that I approach challenges. I come in curious as opposed to judgmental and that is a huge shift for me. 4. Surround Yourself with Positive People We become like the people we spend time with, so make sure you’re around people who uplift and inspire you. Positive vibes are contagious,

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Real Connections, Real Joy

4 Comments / authenticity, Wellness /

How to Cultivate Deeper, More Meaningful Relationships Alright, let’s get real for a minute. You’ve got the career, the degrees, the accomplishments, the home. You’ve checked off all the boxes, and from the outside, life is looking good. But when it comes to the people in your life, the connections that should bring you joy? They’re just not hitting the way they should. That was me a few years ago. To be honest, I am an introvert so when my relationships feel off kilter that is a big deal. We all know that real joy comes from real connections—those deep, meaningful relationships that lift you up, not the surface-level ones that just take up space and make you take a deep breath before engaging with the person. You know that you know what I mean. But here’s the thing I had to learn; meaningful connections don’t just happen because you’ve known someone for a long time or because you see them regularly. They happen when you’re intentional, when you let yourself be seen, and when you focus on the people who really matter. I don’t know about you but for me that was a game changer. I had assumed that people pay attention to my needs in the way that I pay attention to theirs. Boy was I wrong. For the most part people are busy with their lives and they aren’t thinking about what you need, you have to tell them. When I changed my approach my relationships improved and I cannot lie, I was shocked that such a simple thing was the game changer. I have a friend that likes to tell me closed mouths don’t get fed. To be honest, I hate the phrase but in this case, it’s the truth. Anyway let’s talk about how I learned to build those kinds of relationships—the ones that leave you feeling filled up instead of drained – and maybe it can help you too. 1. Be Intentional About Your Relationships Listen, life gets busy. We’ve all been guilty of going through the motions, keeping up with relationships out of habit or obligation. But if you want to feel that real joy, you have to put some thought into who you’re spending your time with. Are you hanging out with people because it’s convenient, or because they truly add something to your life? This was a big one for me, because I am the type of person whose emotions are impacted by the company I keep. So I can’t be around folks who drain my energy. I knew that, but I didn’t pay attention to the fact that I was spending time with people who were taking value, but not adding any. If that’s you here is what worked for me. What can you do?Take a step back and ask yourself: Who am I really connected to? Who makes me feel seen and heard? And who am I just keeping around because it’s comfortable? This is your life, —there’s no room for draining relationships. The people you spend time with should bring you energy, not just take it. I have big sister energy so I am always trying to help and nurture, but I realized I didn’t have balance. I needed people who would do the same for me. Action Step:Here is something you can do: Choose one or two people who you feel a true connection with and schedule time to catch up in a way that feels authentic to the relationship and you. Whether it’s a phone call, a coffee date, or just sitting on the couch choose a medium where you can be fully present with them and focus on building that relationship. Think about it this way, when was the last time you were truly listened to, or truly listened to someone without interrupting with a story of your own or with questions that piqued your curiosity. Try offering a deep listening experience to someone you value and watch what happens. 2. Create Space for Vulnerability Now, I get it—vulnerability isn’t always easy. Especially when you’ve been in control of your life for so long, letting someone see the “real you” can feel uncomfortable. But here’s the thing: real connections require you to show up as your full self. That’s the only way people can truly know you, and that’s where the joy comes from. Ma’am/Sir, this one was hard for me. Like I said, I have big sister energy, so I am not used to being the one who gets the help. But I had to learn to speak up and say what I needed, and wanted. I thought it would be so hard, but honestly because I was doing it with people who really cared, it was not hard at all. I just had to be brave and say it. So I did, I told people when I didn’t want them to be judgy, I told people when I wanted them to listen, I told people when things didn’t sit well for me. And it worked! I got what I needed from the people who cared. What can you do?Start small. You don’t have to spill your whole life story in one sitting, but try sharing a little bit more of what’s going on with you or about what you need the next time you talk to someone you trust. Tell them what’s really on your mind, whether it’s something that’s been bothering you or a dream you’ve been holding onto. Let them in a little more than you usually do. I did this with my younger sister and she was so supportive that I felt silly not doing it for so long. I was used to being there for her, but given the chance, she was there for me and it felt so good. Action Step:The next time you have a conversation with someone you trust, try sharing a small thing about yourself that you’ve been holding on to. It doesn’t have

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Who Do You Say You Are?

4 Comments / authenticity, joy, Wellness /

Sometimes you can find yourself running on autopilot, only to realize you’re living out a script that feels a few sizes too small. I didn’t necessarily realize when this was happening to me. I just knew that I wasn’t happy. I was irritable and crabby and it felt like I was living someone else’s life. Truthfully I was mad at everyone else when the problem was really me. I was changing and the activities I was used to and the things that had traditionally soothed me were no longer working. In short I had outgrown my life, but I was clinging to that too tight uncomfortable life with a vise grip. I am not alone, it’s a common thing. Let me explain. Sometimes, we cling to old roles that don’t reflect who we are currently and we look around and think that the problem is everything and everyone but the person we see in the mirror. To change my too tight uncomfortable life, I did a drastic thing. I packed up and moved to a new state to start over alone. To be clear, you don’t have to be that drastic. You could start by updating our self-perceptions and truly embracing your most authentic self. It’s less expensive, but not necessarily easier. Update Your Identity Narrative To do this we have to agree on a truth and that is: our identities are not set in stone—they morph and grow just as we do physically. But often, we hang onto past versions of ourselves like we hold on to those clothes that no longer fit or are worn out because it’s familiar. I’m not judging you, I get it. I am inviting you to update your identity so that you can align your perception of yourself with who you actually are now, not who you were in the past. For me, the part of my identity I had been clinging to was not positive (shocker). I was operating from a place of fear and letting it limit me. Here’s how my therapist led me through the transformative process: Practical Strategies for Embracing Your Current Identity So like we talked about, shedding outdated aspects of your identity and embracing the current version of yourself requires intentional action. And you know I won’t leave you hanging. Here are some practical strategies to help you if you decide to make this shift: Navigating Relationships with People Stuck in the Past It’s one thing to update your own view of yourself, but another to deal with people who only see the outdated version of you. Now I am channeling all the good in me to write this part because these folks can be hella annoying and my first inclination is to shut down and stop engaging. But thankfully a part of my evolution has included being more gracious. So these strategies I am sharing below are ones that have worked for the new version of me. Here’s my advice on how to handle those who might not yet recognize the person you’ve become. Please feel free to choose what you like and leave the rest. Wrap-Up Ok, so we are at the end of another post inspired by my chats with my therapist. Who do you say you are? This was a powerful question ior me because it forced me to reflect on what was old, what was current, and how I was using outdated narratives and evidence to define myself. So here is my invitation to you – join me on this journey to shed old layers and celebrate the person you’ve become. Think of it as honoring your current self and making space for continued growth and new possibilities. Talk back to me. What aspects of your identity have changed recently? Share your experiences with me, or someone you love. Your story could be the spark that someone else needs. Let’s support each other in embracing our true, updated selves. I can honestly say that this work has helped me discover true joy and look forward to who I am becoming!

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Creating a Calm Home

3 Comments / joy, Wellness /

Ever find yourself in the middle of a whirlwind of daily demands, leaving your mind and space a tangled mess? No judgement here because you’re definitely not alone. When I am stressed or busy it definitely shows in my space. For starters my morning routine of making the bed before I start working is usually the first to go. The tell tale sign of multiple pairs of shoes at the front door is another way that you can tell when I am overwhelmed. I don’t mind sharing my messy truth because I know that our surroundings shape our mental state. I also know that creating a serene environment is key to maintaining my well-being. So let’s explore some practical ways to infuse tranquility into your life. I am talking about mindful decluttering, incorporating nature, and interacting with people in a way that maintains your serenity. Here are some simple yet effective strategies that I have found that to make your home a haven of peace, even amidst the chaos. Understanding Chaos and Its Impact on Well-Being Chaos can mean a lot, from the unpredictability of life’s events to the internal turmoil we experience. It disrupts our plans, throws us off balance, and challenges our peace of mind. Recognizing the dance of chaos helps us navigate it gracefully, keeping our mental health resilient. I shared with you that we moved in March to accommodate my partner’s work, all while I was dealing with a concussion. So here we were, in a new city, me barely functioning (because of course I was managing what I later learned were migraines, and light and sound sensitivity) while trying to set up a new home and him working on site everyday. Talk about stress. I was completely off-balance, every plan was disrupted, and I was constantly in search of peace that didn’t involve screens, light or sound. Fun times. It was hard on me and hard on my relationship. What I found was that focusing on my own well-being helped me to show up as the best version of my self, which then created calmer interactions in the relationship even though everything around us was constantly evolving and changing. But that’s another story for another day. Creating a Serene Environment at Home Transforming your home into a tranquil sanctuary isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about crafting a space where peace isn’t just possible, but a constant presence. The good news for us, is that we were able to do a lot of our decluttering before we moved. But decluttering is definitely necessary to creating calm. So here are some tips I have used and continue to use. Decluttering Your Space We know that a cluttered space can lead to increased stress and anxiety. I don’t know about you but when I am not in a good space and my home is also a wreck, it drives me crazy. Not to mention, my partner is a neat person so he definitely is not about that clutter life. Here’s how we tackle it. Incorporating Nature Bringing the outdoors inside isn’t just beautiful; it’s beneficial. So I have to admit, before my encounter with the sidewalk, I was not a plant person. I was convinced that I could not take care of them. But something about being in this new space where I have morning sunlight and a balcony I never use, screamed plants. So I jumped in with both feet. Choosing Calming Colors and Decor Colors deeply affect our emotions. Opt for shades that bring you calm to enhance the tranquility of your space. Now when you research this you will find conventional wisdom, but remember its your space, so think about what brings you peace. I am a beach girl. There is nothing I love more than a day lounging at the beach or floating in the pool. I also like a space that feels warm and comforting like my dear departed grandma’s hug. So I have a large cozy couch in a bold color and reminds me of sunshine, a material that feels like a cozy sweater. I balance it with pillows and a rug which are more neutral. The Impact of Interactions on Serenity Now that we have talked about designing the physical space, there is something to be said about maintaining peace in your space. The way we interact with people in our space definitely affects its serenity. Positive interactions enhance the calmness of a room, while negative ones can disrupt it. The goal is to enhance the calmness, so create some rules for your space. Practical Tips for Peaceful Interactions: Conclusion Creating a serene environment amidst chaos is not only possible but essential. Take one step towards investing in your tranquility. Will it be decluttering a space or enjoying a moment of quiet? Share your journey towards a calmer home and inspire others to do the same. Let’s nurture our spaces to reflect the peace we seek within. Here’s to creating homes that are not just living spaces but sanctuaries of calm and joy! What steps will you take to bring more peace into your home? Share your thoughts and let’s support each other in this journey. If you enjoyed this post please like and/or comment. If you think it would be good reading for someone else, please do share. I would be overjoyed if you subscribe and follow me on Instagram. Ever find yourself in the middle of a whirlwind of daily demands, leaving your mind and space a tangled mess? No judgement here because you’re definitely not alone. When I am stressed or busy it definitely shows in my space. For starters my morning routine of making the bed before I start working is usually the first to go. The tell tale sign of multiple pairs of shoes at the front door is another way that you can tell when I am overwhelmed. I don’t mind sharing my messy truth because I know that our surroundings shape our mental state.

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Comfort Loaves and Lemonade

1 Comment / Wellness /

When I was a little girl my grandmother baked bread for us. And my favorite part of the bread baking was that she always made some tiny loaves just for me. It was our thing. She would call me into the kitchen and slather one of my tiny loaves with butter. That warm buttered loaf, with a cold glass of lemonade was my all time favorite meal. It meant that I was special cause of course no one else but me got a special loaf. My relationship with my grandmother was special and before I understood what love was I loved her unconditionally. We had lots of special things that we did together, but the smell and taste of warm buttered bread chase with a glass of cold lemonade always evokes the memory of my grandma. Of course with my busy life I have never baked a loaf of bread in my life. That doesn’t matter though, cause after a long or tough day, I still reach for that old taste and smell. Obviously I can’t eat too much bread, for health reasons, but it is still my comfort food after all these years. I am grateful for the time I got with my grandma. She shaped my life in lasting ways. During this week of gratitude, I choose to honor the memory of my grandma and all that she has meant to me. I miss her often. She was introverted like me, quick witted and sharp. She was the perfect balance of kind and firm. She took no pleasure in fools and did not deign to interact with them. At the same time, she would always cook extra food just in case someone stopped by and was hungry. She was the only person I have ever known who was both warm and stoic. I loved that woman. I will have some warm bread and butter and a glass of lemonade in honor of her this week. Who are you grateful for this holiday season? What foods remind you of them?

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