Growing up in a large family, one of my favorite memories is of our Christmas traditions.
We made dozens of cut-out cookies, batches of sweet caramels, pounds of chocolatey fudge, and bags of party mix in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Then, every Christmas eve, we each opened one gift—new pajamas.
The next morning, the…
Christmas was the most difficult season for my family while Ron was in prison.
On the outside, we missed him every day—but during Christmas we missed him even more. For those on the inside, the days are longer and harder than any other time of the year. Spending time together during visits to…
Christmas is not about presents, it is about people
When Ron went to prison, I realized that Christmas is not about presents, it is about people. My boys were grateful for the presents they received- but what they wanted most was to spend Christmas with their daddy. Some of the best gifts we have received…
I so wish I could stop the commercialism in Christmas.
The pressure of trying to find the elusive “perfect gift” creates so much stress. If only that gift wasn’t so expensive, or I had more money, things would be so much easier.
I used to go crazy trying to save money for Christmas presents – and…
Family gatherings can be difficult.
Or they can be amazing. It all depends on how we manage ourselves. Yes, we have all the power to make our holidays with our family wonderful or woeful. When we react to what others say or do, we ruin the entire day. On the other hand, if…
Prison is hard on everyone, every day. It is the hardest during the holidays. I am talking about every holiday—not just the federally recognized holidays. Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baptisms, every event that family gathers to celebrate is a stark reminder that our family is different.
Five things you need to do when your husband is in prison on Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving is a tough holiday to celebrate when your husband is locked up in prison. I recall my first thanksgiving. All I could think about is how much he is missing out on and how much I missed having him there…
How to celebrate Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a great time of year to reflect on the things for which you are thankful. It's a time to re-center gratitude and focus on the good. All the while trying not to fill up on appetizers before the main course. Learning how to celebrate thanksgiving in prison was a…
Angel Tree Christmas
It doesn't seem possible that Christmas is only 5 weeks away. It feels like just yesterday that we were rushing around trying to get to as many family functions as we could. I can't believe that it's almost that time again! I want to share with you the joy of Angel Tree…
One of the simplest ways to let someone know you care about them is to get them a gift.
Gifts are wonderful for holidays, birthdays, special occasions, or just to lift someone’s spirits during a difficult time. When someone is in prison, sending a gift becomes complicated and confusing. People often ask questions like, “What…