Of Beauty, Yardwork, and Dr. Dre

July 6, 2016.Reading time 7 minutes.

Music has a power unique unto itself. It is truly an amazing phenomenon. It can lift us up, incite us to action, bring us to worship, and awe us with its stunning beauty. A few simple notes can change a mood by reminding us of bygone days or lost love. It can create melancholy, joy, excitement… the reach of music is endless.

I enjoyed one of the most beautiful musical experiences of my life a little over a year ago and it caught me by complete surprise. I know that my ability to feel things at a new level stems from the emotions that have poured into my being since the loss of Kylie, but this music came into my soul and plucked my heartstrings like I was seated third oboe in the orchestra.

The Gift of Cancer

June 26, 2016.Reading time less than 1 minute.

I was honored to do a guest post for the Cancer Knowledge Network under their “Living with Cancer” heading. Don’t be fooled by the title, cancer is no gift. But can it be used to get child through the emotional battle and to the next day?

My grandmother had chutzpah. Like many children of the depression, she hoarded sugar and ketchup packets from every restaurant trip and we found boxes full of them when we cleaned out her home. She clipped coupons and saved every dime she could like a miser afraid they would run out. But she also gave the best gifts….

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