After a dramatic scene with my mom and grandma when Mom found my suitcases in her trunk during a trip to Keokuk, where I planned to catch a bus to the St. Louis temple, I was finally on my way. Grandma said she wouldn't give me my birthday government savings bonds she'd purchased for me every year if I left and I told her she could keep her money; ( Read more... )

Later this week my son turns 40. I can't help but think it's a miracle since he came so close to dying at age 13.

It amazes me that I've lived this long too.

Lakshmana's favorite birthday song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_TFFdFGEFo

Today is the 22nd anniversary of my son's traumatic brain injury from a bicycle accident. He was thrown off his bike headfirst at about 30-35 mph and endured multiple brain surgeries and weeks in a coma, months of hospitalization and rehab that continued at home. Doctors could not even tell me for sure that he would live--the neurosurgeon gave him ( Read more... )

Today is the 21st anniversary of my son's traumatic brain injury, acquired in a bicycle accident. It's a good day to make sure the people in your lives are serious about wearing a certified and well-fitting bicycle (or motorcycle) helmet.

At this time 34 years ago I was just blissfully enjoying my baby and relieved the pregnancy and labor were over. I think right about this time my friends came over and brought me some food. I was so sore I couldn't get up to let them in the door so I crawled over to open it. Didn't matter; I was still so happy. :)

August 30 will mark my tenth year of survival after heart surgery. It falls during the week so I will celebrate labor day weekend instead. Not sure what we're going to do though. I remember getting home from the hospital and watching the MTV video music awards. Then not long after came 9/11 ( Read more... )

Today is the 19th anniversary of my son's bicycle accident, where he acquired a traumatic brain injury. He nearly died, was in a long coma, had two brain surgeries and a long rehab. So I am grateful for his survival and continued life.

PS Wear a helmet!!! He wished he had done so, let me tell you.

The latest installment in my continuing story on No Longer Quivering is Smiling Faces. I learn way more than I wanted to know about a family secret, then fight to save my baby from a serious infection. Going home to my abusive husband seemed almost peaceful after that. Almost.

The latest installment of my story is available at No Longer Quivering: Cat's In The Cradle. I arrive at my grandma's house and much hilarity and frustration ensues--plus an unexpected meeting.

Grieving Mother's Day by Julie Cohen.

Excerpt:

I wish that alongside all of the Happy Mother's Day cards, there were other cards that acknowledge those of us who have a difficult time with the day. For instance, people in my situation, whose mother has passed away or mothers whose children have passed away. Also people who, for whatever reason, ( Read more... )