...Holidays are times for reminiscing. Memories of what we once had swim before our eyes. We become hyper-aware of who and what we've lost. Amid the smiling faces, there are wounded hearts. Grief is a lonely thing. Surrounded by gaiety, a broken heart can feel more alone and isolated than ever. No one wants to hurt for the holidays, but some of us do... More >>

Winter might as well be called comfort food season. All year long, many look forward to warm, hearty, stick-to-your-ribs feasts with strong childhood memories served on the side. Why not, though, start the comfort food coziness even earlier than that - with the appetizer course... More >>

My husband and I stupidly got married after knowing each other for only eight months. I didn't realize then that people are on their best behavior when dating, and you need to take the time to get to know each other better... More >>

The Christmas of 1964 comes close to bringing tears to my eyes even today. We only got presents twice a year: birthday and Christmas. We each got three presents. Often what we got was clearly a cheaper version of what we wanted, but imagination made up the difference... More >>

In my twenties and early thirties, I enjoyed a successful career in the financial services industry. One of my first hires was perfect for the job, but a few months after we hired her, she told me she was newly pregnant and decided she was going to stop working and raise their child... More >>

I called you looking for affirmation that my husband and I had given our daughter the right advice. She had been asked by a friend's mother to throw a surprise birthday party for this friend, but then the mother said that my daughter shouldn't invite a certain few people... More >>

About a year ago, my wife and I were at a loss as to what to do with our 16-year-old daughter. We have younger children but this one has been a challenge... More >>

When my oldest was heading down the slacker path, I booted him out. The rule is: to stay at home after age 18, my kids must either be employed full-time or in school full-time and passing... More >>

...As a hospice chaplain and grief counselor, I see a lot of holiday grief. Many are hurting and wondering how they are going to navigate this time emotionally. If that's you, here are three tips to help you stay sane this holiday season... More >>

...The holiday season can bring extra trepidation. We feel the pressure to put ourselves out in the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle and we feel the need to protect ourselves from overstimulation. This time of year, puts many of us face to face with forced socializing, hosting, family drama and paradoxically, feelings of loneliness... More >>