Even in the worst of times the very best gems of life will present themselves if we pay close enough attention. Joy is generated from within and we get to decide how much or little of it we allow to rise to the surface each day.
“Expert” Advice from a Professional Patient
One lesson I’ve had to learn, and re-learn, is that my body is not always willing to go as far as my mind intends to take it.
Fellow Moms, Here’s to Us.
Here’s to us for managing to stay alive. First of all, it’s amazing we even survived childbirth. Where’s my certificate of achievement for that? And that’s only day one on the job of motherhood, y’all. Whether a mom gave birth, adopted, or married into the role, being a mom is exhausting. Truly. It’s a sort of exhaustion … Continue reading Fellow Moms, Here’s to Us.
The Panic Button
Well, here we are again. I recognize that tree… You may be asking yourselves, where are we exactly? Allow me to explain. In October of 2021 I published a piece called Wildland Fire’s Great Exodus, which if you missed it, you're welcome to read by clicking here. The quick synopsis however, is this; federally employed wildland firefighters (WFFs) … Continue reading The Panic Button
One Step at a Time
You know what’s awesome? Analogies. And it just so happens that I have an analogy to share with you, which I’ll happy toss your way in just a moment.
Away
For as far back as I can remember, I’ve felt a pull to be “away.” When I was a kid it didn’t matter if I was around the corner at a friend’s house or gone at a summer camp, I just felt a consistent urge to be someplace else. That feeling has never subsided, and it’s … Continue reading Away
Fire Family
We refer to ourselves as fire family with great intention because we aren’t close friends, that would actually be quite the misrepresentation. The term family signifies a closeness, but it also encapsulates the ruggedness of human relationships...
A Tale of Two “Foxies”
Here I was, a parent in one of those situations that feels like whichever choice I make it’s going to be the wrong one...
Wildland Fire’s Great Exodus
The Great Exodus that is occurring amongst the ranks of the wildland firefighting population is on a catastrophic trajectory because of what it will mean for wildfire response moving into the future.
The 40 Year Old Fill-In
When the pandemic hit in 2020, it flipped everything sideways for the fire community and most things were uncertain except for one; fires would still happen, and firefighters would have to respond. At the time, I was in a secondary fire position which didn’t require me to take an assignment but with the position I … Continue reading The 40 Year Old Fill-In