Our Blog
Surviving Complicated Grief
The hospital smells of disinfectant, trying to mask the presence of illness and grief. I walk into my husband's room and give him a hug. I hold on tight, and even though he's too weak to reciprocate, I relish the familiar touch and feel of his skin. How, I wonder,...
Unexpected Acts of Kindness
"In a world where you can be anything, be kind." This quote is getting thousands of "Likes" on Facebook, but are acts of kindness what we practice in our everyday lives? In March of 2002, my husband Rex and I moved to a small fixer upper in Palos Verdes. Our next door...
I Used to Be Pretty
I used to be pretty, I mean cheerleader, actress, head-turning pretty. Fortunately, I was also smart. I learned early that it would take more than good looks to make my way in the world. And as much as I'm struggling with aging, it's harder for women whose identities...
My Step-Mother’s Funeral
I ride to the cemetery with my step-sister's daughter, a red-headed beauty who always makes me feel included. My step-brother's daughter is sitting in the back with her husband and they are all sharing memories. Their beloved grandmother passed away 2 days ago,...
Strawberries: Childhood Trauma and Eating Disorders
I reach for some strawberries as my father unpacks them from his grocery bag. "No, sweetheart," he says, "we’re saving those for mommy." I'm 12 or 13, and my mother is sick in bed. My father reassures me that she'll get well, so I go to my room as he tends to her...