The table has meant so many things to me over the course of my life, but especially over the last year. The conversations and connections around a meal are invaluable. Twenty-twenty provided an opportunity to strengthen my resolve about the value of connection. Learning how to set a virtual table [for my students, strangers, and…… Continue reading There is Room at the Table
Mother’s Day evokes a wide spectrum of emotions–from deep satisfaction to inexplicable sorrow. For as many mothers there are in the world, there are that many varieties of experiences with a mother and as a mother. While I never imagined I would be a mother [for fear of not being a good one], I cannot…… Continue reading Mother’s Day Experiences
Relationships are both work and reward. Without the work {which often consists of a mix of vulnerability and humility}, the reward of growing deeper in love and compassion is often missed, but sometimes the cost of the work appears greater than the reward. I have experienced a lot of “fringe-ships” over the years. I’m generally…… Continue reading Moving Beyond Fringe-ships
Today’s letter unveils a story I’ve had the privilege of watching over the years. It was written by the man who sees all my meltdowns, mess-ups, and smells my morning breath. Eww. This is part of my husband’s story that takes a peek behind the curtain of his public life. He graciously and reluctantly, agreed…… Continue reading Dear Dad
This letter was written by my friend, Letty. When I first read her words, I had to pause several times to collect myself. It’s such a beautiful expression of authentic love. Be prepared to experience the tenderness of her heart and the unique outlook she has on fostering. If you want to grab a tissue,…… Continue reading Dear Foster Baby, I’ll Never Stop Loving You
She shifted direction and headed straight for the flowerbed–instead of the car. Observing her movements, curious about the sudden pull toward the plants, I was alarmed to see her bend down and break the stem of a plant in my humble [little] garden. The sound of my panicked voice filled the space between us as…… Continue reading Moment of Truth Monday: February Edition
We walked to school every day. That was the perk of living 3 blocks away and having older sisters. We loved walking with our neighbor friends and chattering as young girls would. One day, everything changed. Fear entered the routine and threatened our innocence. Both the driver and the car were unfamiliar. Living in a…… Continue reading Moment of Truth Monday
She stood in front of me fumbling through each screen. My silent frustration grew with every failed attempt. I just wanted to sign in, get my labs drawn, and get on with the rest of my day. This slowdown was unwelcome. Though the slowdown of an interruption is typically inconvenient, it’s often fertile learning ground.…… Continue reading Moment of Truth Monday
I am a bit sensitive when it comes to names. Pronouncing names right is important to me. If you grew up with my name, you might understand why. Since you didn’t, let me offer you a peek into my backstory. Growing up, I was the only Alyssa in my class, school, church, neighborhood, etc. I…… Continue reading Moment of Truth Monday
Divorce has the illusion of being an easy solution for struggling relationships. It appears to be as simple as changing out the curtains in the living room when chevron is no longer trending. There is a dark side of divorce that isn’t displayed in sitcoms and headlines, and it involves a great deal of heartache.…… Continue reading Moment of Truth Monday
Alyssa DeLosSantos 