How much do you really know about substance use? Today, for National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, let’s learn about the topic together. Content Warning: This blog contains discussions of drug and alcohol use, overdose, overdose death, and other difficult mental health issues. If you find these topics uncomfortable or distressing, take the time to […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













Content Warning: This blog contains discussions of self-harm, mental illness, abuse, and other difficult mental health issues. If you find these topics uncomfortable or distressing, take the time to decide whether this content is right for you. If you need to talk to someone, you can reach out to me at any time. I talk […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













National Eating Disorder Awareness Week begins on Monday, February 26th. In observance of this vital awareness week, let’s talk about eating disorders. What are they? What are the risk factors and signs? What can we do to prevent eating disorders, and to offer better support and resources to the people around us? Content Warning: This […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













It’s Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week. This issue happens more often than most people realize – which is why bringing awareness to it is so important. Let’s talk about what sexual violence is, who is at risk, and what we can do to prevent it. Content Warning: This blog discusses various forms of […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













How do you define happiness? What does joy mean in your life? Today, in honor of Hunt for Happiness Week, let’s talk about finding personal happiness in our everyday lives. Not the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow happiness. The real life, in the middle of real ups and downs, happiness. Do […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













Today is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. How much do you really understand about this worldwide issue? Let’s talk about it. Human trafficking isn’t a simple issue. The portrayals of trafficking shown in movies and on TV usually aren’t realistic or accurate. So what does human trafficking actually look like? And what can we do […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













Happy Holidays! I hope that all of you have had a happy holiday season – whatever that looks like for you. Today marks 6 years without Jim. As you can imagine, the holidays have been more than difficult ever since his loss. It’s a time filled with great pain but also reflection. I believe in […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month, and it couldn’t be more timely. Between the shortened daylight and the holidays, this time of year can trigger increased depression. So let’s talk about it. This season is especially tough for so many of us. Even if we love the celebrations, the holidays are still stressful. We’re dealing […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













It’s International Day for Tolerance, so today I want to talk about tolerance from the perspective of a mental health advocate. If you spend even a small amount of time interacting with others, you’re bound to find differences. From race and gender to political beliefs and worldviews, diversity is all around us. And as the […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













We’re heading into the Halloween weekend, and as I look at everyone’s costumes on social media I can’t help but think about masks. I’m not talking about actual masks, of course. I’m talking about the masks that people put on in everyday life – the ones that hide their true personalities, identities, and intentions. I’ve […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













Now that the chaos of the first – ever Ruthless in the Rockies retreat is over, I’m reflecting on everything that happened – all the good and the not so good. And there is so much to share with you! But the thing that’s been on my mind the most is the topic of ‘detoxing.’ […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.













This week is National Suicide Prevention Week. This year’s campaign theme is ‘Talk Away the Dark.’ So let’s start a conversation about what we can all do to prevent suicide! Most of us have been touched by suicide in some way. After all, it’s the 11th most common cause of death in the US today, […]


It's been a while!
I relaunched my business. And most importantly, I showed up for what matters most—even when no one was watching.
My world was already shattered after losing Jim in 2017, but on May 8th, my sweet SassyGirl passed away, causing it to shatter in so
many new ways.
If you know me, you know she wasn’t just “my dog.” She was my shadow, my heartbeat, my constant in a world that rarely stays still. She was also another connection to Jim.
I left one piece behind when we left Colorado - the place he loved so much and so proudly helped me love and call home.
And I lost another as Sassy crossed the Rainbow Bridge and went from my arms into his.
That’s the only peace I found. Knowing they’re together again ❤ watching over me (and Dallas, and of course, Denver, too!!)
I put Sassy first when we got to Michigan. It wasn’t about adjusting or exploring. I wasn’t about me or work or meeting people. It was
about Sassy and making sure she was as well adjusted as possible.
That was never a question.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would lose her this year. Her decline was rapid! But this isn’t about her pain….
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a
new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps
me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with
Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the
truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even
when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day,
especially when it’s hard.
So other’s know that they don’t have to wear the masks. That they don’t have to prioritize the world’s comfort above their own.
That takes energy that can better be used simply surviving.
This blog is the first page of my next chapter.
If you’ve been with me through the podcast, the posts, and the newsletters, thank you. You’ve seen the in-between. You’ve witnessed the
messy middle. And now, I’m bringing it back to my favorite place, the written page - not to rehash the past, but to write what’s next.
So here’s my question for you as I return to my page:
What part of yourself have you been too busy living life to write down?
Not because I don’t care about you. Not because I haven’t had anything to say – but because I was living the words before I could write them.
Since last year, life has been full of deep endings and brave beginnings. I relocated back to Michigan.
Grief doesn’t pause for convenience, and neither does love.
Dallas, my youngest (and now, somehow, my oldest), has stepped into a new role of her own. And little Denver—full of mischief and magic—keeps me on my toes in ways only little dogs can.
I’m learning so many lessons. Every day!! And sharing the stories with Sassy and Jim. Every night.
These transitions haven’t just shaped my days—they’ve reshaped me.
So no, this isn’t about starting over. It’s about starting again.
With more clarity. More conviction. And the same core mission: to tell the truth loudly and proudly about grief, healing, and mental health, even when it’s hard. To show up as my authentic self every single day, especially when it’s hard.












