I left social contexts with rigid divides - ones where separating lines were drawn in permeant black marker with a clear “in and out” divide/mindset. When I participated in these social contexts, I was both insecure and confident.

Although I have many unanswered questions, I understand that I carry with me remnants of a past need for survival.

A notification that brightens a dreary October day. A click that took me to Pastern Corner Blog. A field of sunflowers and in the centre, a logo shaped like the sun reading “Sunshine Blogger Award.” A quick read and scroll down to 11 Nominees. A grin curling my lips upward with joy. I quietly say … Continue reading Sunshine Blogger Nominee

When I started my blog five years ago a fellow blogger and friend gave me valuable advice. He said, “Remember that blogging is a community of writers. You need to participate in the conversations.” It was helpful advice that didn’t come naturally. At the time I was struggling to find my voice and have the … Continue reading Five Years

Today my senses expand as I turn the corner onto my street.  With no blooms in sight I smell the sweet aroma of Spring flowers in the air.  The sleepy grey morning sky is swept with the brilliance of yellow daffodils, lavender-blue muscari and pink tulips.  Like the creamy aroma of strong espresso waking me … Continue reading Sweet Spring

My neighbourhood has not been the same since the pandemic. Not too long ago, a quick wave from a car window on our way to and from work was all we had time for. Nowadays cars remain in the driveways, and we sport comfy joggers and uncut hair or home haircuts instead. A more relaxed … Continue reading The Space Between

When I was younger I thought success was an onward and upward journey mapped out by culturally embedded markers: high-school, post secondary education, a career, love and marriage followed by children. If I followed this map, I would know that I had arrived. Reality hit hard when I missed some of these predetermined markers by … Continue reading Success

It was Saturday night a few days before Christmas and with nowhere to go and no friends to meet, we decided to live like the not so distant past (the time before lockdowns). “Let’s pretend we’re going out to a restaurant!” I exclaimed. “Sure, why not!” my husband replied. Gourmet nachos for dinner with craft … Continue reading More Than A Meal

I was aimlessly scrolling when my finger stopped at a post that read, “What makes you feel free?” I thought to myself, “I’m going to answer this.” Without over-thinking or complicating the question I allowed the first thing to pop into my mind: swimming. I feel most free when I’m submerged in water. Swimming ignites … Continue reading Simple: Swimming