Elevating Black Women on this MLK Day

This MLK Day, I want to hype black women. Yesterday a dear friend poured out a bit of her heart concerning the recent resignation of Claudine Gay and on the heels of that, Antoinette “Bonnie” Candia-Bailey taking her own life. These, she shared with us, are just two of the many black women struggling in…

Holiday Grief and Loss

There is a common thread amongst the many holidays that are celebrated this time of year— Diwali and Chinese New Year with their lanterns lifted by candle heat, Chanukah’s menorah, Kwanza’s seven flames, Yule’s log and Christmas’ bulbs— that is light. This is the darkest time of year and since ancient times people have found…

A Year Later

I’m wearing your socks today. The ones that Larry got you when you were in the hospital for the last time. You left two pairs here when you went away. The third I think you were wearing. There are moments I forget. Moments I want to pick up the phone and tell you some piece…

Retirement Goals

Today I was driving through the pulga area of Stark (if you're familiar with east Multnomah county you know where I mean) and I saw two older gentlemen crossing the street dressed in button up western tops, cowboy hats and boots. They looked a bit like mi suegro and I loved them instantly. I don't…

Earthly Treasures

Not feeling well today. Just a bit tired and nauseous. Could very well be the result of a puking kid in my care on Friday. Still, the little bit of blue sky amongst the shades of gray and the mild weather were calling to me, so I took a little walk to the nearby park.…