Back to School Tip: Cookies and Razors Do Not Mix

In “celebration” of school starting back up for many of you, here’s a little throw back for ya. Not one of my best moments as a mom, but it sure makes for a great story. Just don’t make this mistake. (This post was originally published February 27, 2012 and updated In August 2022.) The school … Read more

Mommmmmmmmmmmmmm!

My son wasn’t feeling well after school that day. He sent me a text message asking to be picked up as soon as the 3:10 pm bell rang. I knew he had basketball practice but I also knew he had been sniffling and coughing that morning. I figured he felt pretty lousy if he wanted to … Read more

Notes in Lunch Boxes

Another Encore Week post…. This one is my favorite because it’s one of my fondest memories of my mom and of my kids… I enjoy celebrating special occasions as much as the next person but I also enjoy making ordinary days more memorable with simple unexpected gestures. To my son that may mean the smell … Read more

Cotillion, Cold Meds & a Goat

Riding to school with three of our four children was always eventful and this particular morning was no different. Our teenage daughter was explaining her difficulties with waking up due to the large doses of cold medicine she received from her father the night before.

A Tomato Made Me Cry

For the past six months, our home has been very different. When I accepted a severance plan from my employer in September 2011, I also accepted a different daily routine for our family. Our life slowed down and the focus was no longer on a fast or convenient solution to whatever problems the day presented but … Read more

A Black Eye From What?

I was hustling around the kitchen one night and not really listening to the steady stream of words my son was hurling my way. It’s not that I was trying to ignore him. Actually, it was quite the opposite. As a finalist for Mother of the Year, I do try to actively participate in these … Read more

Blessed Easter Morn Gone Awry

Colorful center piece for table – check. Easter baskets with appropriate balance of chocolate, sour candy and non edible items – check. New clothes in festive colors for all family members – check. Delicious meal planned – check. Reminding kids of real meaning of Easter – check. Easter photo counseling session for mom – Um, … Read more

Who Am I?

I had just climbed bleachers to watch my daughter’s volleyball practice when I experienced an identity crisis. As crises go it was mild, but as far as questioning the purpose of one’s existence it was intense. First of all, if you’re a mom and your kids plays sports or participate in any other extra-curricular activities, … Read more

Shrimp & Grits Coming Up

There’s a quaint hotel in Savannah, GA where my husband and I enjoy occasional weekend getaways. We love the location, the decor and most of all – the staff. I have been passionate about customer experience throughout my marketing career. I typically display unusual levels of excitement when staff members show they really “get it”. … Read more

I Forgot But He Didn’t

You know those days when you have everything planned out perfectly? Your list is long, but you’ve got it all thought out. You know very well this means you’re going to be multitasking most of the day but you’re skilled and adept at stirring a pot of soup with one hand and solving the world’s … Read more