I used to pity my divorced teacher with her mid-year name change. At 35, I became her. Here's why I wouldn't trade this broken, beautiful journey for the fearless girl I used to be.
Personal Growth
Ice Skating at the National Gallery Taught Me I’ve Been Bracing for Falls My Whole Life
Charming and I skated The Mall in D.C., but I kept tensing for the fall that never came. After 15 years of fierce independence, I decorate Christmas trees alone and skate like I live—bracing for impact. Maybe learning to trust a teammate is just another grammar rule worth breaking.
Dr. Bogin Would Be Proud: How My Therapist’s Legacy Lives On in 987 Tuesday Nights
Dr. Bogin would smile behind his round black frames if he could meet Charming at our Thanksgiving party. He taught me that no day is wasted, even the 5,127 we spent apart. Now I see: God doesn't work in clean slates—He works in yearbook themes where everything connects.
Why My Timeline for Life Keeps Looking Like a Playdough Giraffe
I planned to marry at 22 and have kids by 28, just like my mom. Here's what Einstein's theory of relativity taught me about trying to control time—and why my evening glory bloomed in October.
The Wizard of Oz Skit That Taught Me About Saying Goodbye
Three weeks after getting engaged, I was directing a faculty skit instead of planning my wedding. Here's what playing Dorothy taught me about home, community, and letting go.
The Fort Monroe Beach Proposal: When Prince Charming Finally Gets Down on One Knee
After two years of waiting and wondering, Charming surprised me with a fairy tale proposal at my favorite beach. Here's the story of glass slippers, horse-drawn carriages, and finally getting my happily ever after.
The Prayer Bracelet I Made at 2 AM After My ADHD Diagnosis
I could never focus during prayer until I understood why. Here's how my ADHD diagnosis led me to create a bracelet that finally helps me talk to God.
The Day This I Finally Got My ADHD Diagnosis at Thirty-Five
After years of restless nights and racing thoughts, a psychologist finally gave me answers. Here's what it means to discover your brain chemistry has a name—and why it explains everything.
What Pokémon GO Taught Me About Fighting for Your Dreams
I spent a week chasing legendary creatures with strangers who became friends. Here's what I learned about teamwork, elusive dreams, and the difference between battling together and catching alone.
Somewhere Between Rome and Capri, I Stopped Waiting for Permission to Live
In Italy, I wasn't teacher or girlfriend—just a woman sneaking cloves and sharing espresso with strangers. No judgment, complete freedom. When in Rome, I learned the answer isn't to do as Romans do. It's simpler: Live. Now back home, that lesson fights every normal, daily routine.
Writer's Growth 