I think Parker McCollum was right when he sang, “it’s been a hell of a year.” It’s hard to believe it’s only August. Many of us have…… Read more “Alex Around America”

…like the 75 billion souls who lived before him, each and every one a treasure, he too, will die.Ben Sherwood, The Death and Life of Charlie St.…… Read more “Birthday Cards Never Sent”

Hi, I’m Alex. I’m twenty years old and I feel like time is running out. My favorite color is blue and I hate my smile. I’m terrible…… Read more “Alex, A Little Closer. (20)”

Dear America, I am a white woman and I will never fully understand what it means to be black. You see, I often find myself at a…… Read more “Stand Up, America.”

Butterfly wings are completely transparent. Those beautifully colored wings are mere scales that reflect light in different colored patterns. As butterflies age, their layers grow thin, exposing…… Read more “Go Gently, Dear Butterfly.”

Dear Mom, I wish you were here. That’s how I started the letter to my mom when I put her on life support. All my life I…… Read more “Greetings, Grievings, and Flower Tattoos”

Happiness. It’s something we all want, we all chase, and we innately need. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That’s why we’re here. Happiness is waking…… Read more “The Choice”

“I think one of the most beautiful moments of friendship is when little pieces of them stick to you…”

Dear Dakota, Where do I even start with you, buddy? I met you when I was 13. When we first saw you at the shelter, Mom and…… Read more “A Thank You Note To The Coolest Dog Ever”

Not only had my brother disappeared, but– and bear with me here– a part of my very being had gone with him. Stories about us could, from…… Read more “25 Burnt Out Candles”