In January, I committed to finally reading the unabridged edition of Victor Hugo’s famous novel, Les Misérables. Familiar with the moving story via its stage and film adaptations, I have long wanted to read the book, and I have had a paperback copy sitting on my nightstand for at least two years. But at 1,460 pages, it is an ambitious read, so I have repeatedly set it aside, as if waiting for some perfect time to magically emerge where I…
For part of high school, I was a cheerleader. During that season of life, cheerleading looked like practicing cheers and stunts daily after school and during the summer, suiting up to cheer at games a few times a week, tumbling classes, and team competitions. I haven’t cheered like that for decades, but we all have opportunities to be cheerleaders all the time. It doesn’t require a uniform, a back handspring, or a love of sports. However, it might include dedicating…
A few weeks ago, I was delighted to attend a wedding shower for a beautiful young couple in love, counting down the days until they could solemnize their union. At the same event, I finally got to meet a precious miracle baby that has been a long time coming to her devoted parents. I was thrilled to celebrate these joyful relationships and life events with my loved ones, surrounded by family and friends. Less than 24 hours later, my children…