How Alternative Gift-Giving Makes My Holiday Season Brighter
During my childhood, gifts were typically reserved for Christmas and birthdays. Whenever I spotted an advertisement for some fun new toy, I knew I had…
How I Learned to Confront Indecision
Several years ago, I decided to hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trail. In the months leading up to the trip, I scoured hiking…
Staying Curious: How Saying Yes Makes Life More Interesting
Several years ago, I found myself wedged under my car, staring up at the skid plate that stood between me and the oil drain plug.…
Long-Distance Family: Staying Connected Across the Miles
Nearly a decade ago, my family left Wisconsin, drove our minivan 1,500 miles to Montana, dropped me at my dorm, waved goodbye, and drove 1,500…
6 Thank You Cards to Write Before Graduation
In college, I was a stickler when it came to sending thank you cards. A jacket from an aunt, new socks from my folks, and,…
Weekends With My Sister: How Hiking Helped Us Grow Closer
There is a six-year age gap between my youngest sister and me. As children, we fought constantly, which perpetually baffled my mother. “You’re six years…
More Than a Workout: 5 Ways to Practice Healthy Living in Your 20s
I was 25 when adult life started settling into place. Job performance reviews took the place of class grades. Networking events became acceptable evening plans.…
When Religion Doesn’t Fit: Learning Through Doubt and Discovery
Growing up, I was the only kid I knew who went to church every single week. While everyone else was sleeping in, I was listening…
The Doubt Weasel
Doubt’s one of those weird feelings that can seem nearly impossible to control. A few years ago I was tasked with organizing a first-time event…
Why a Small “I Will” Is More Powerful Than a Flood of “I Wishes”
During fifth grade, our classroom became the temporary home to a traveling library of animals brought to us by a local college. To a child…
