Author’s Life

Happy 4th of July 2020

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This 4th of July will be very different from previous celebrations for a lot of us. For Allegra and me, on a personal level, it will be the first 4th without Ruby. And of course, nothing else will be the same this  year, either.

If you are going to gather with family or friends, please be safe and observe physical distancing and wear a mask. If you’re going to stay home, try to find something meaningful that allows you to enjoy the holiday. Maybe there’s a special food that evokes summer for you? Maybe a favorite movie? Continue Reading

Happy Father’s Day 2020

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Whether your kids are human or furry, enjoy your special day!

Father’s Day can be bittersweet for those of us whose fathers are no longer with us. My dad passed away 16 years ago, but I still get a little sad each year when Father’s Day comes around.Continue Reading

Memorial Day 2020

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To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. ― Thomas Campbell

Today is Memorial Day in the United States, a day when we honor the memory of the men and women who have died in military service. We also celebrate the arrival of summer, but because of the reason for the holiday, it never feels right to me to say “Happy Memorial Day,” so instead, I’m wishing you a day filled with love and beautiful memories.Continue Reading

Happy Mother’s Day 2020

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This is going to be a very different Mother’s Day for a lot of moms out there. My heart goes out to those of you who can’t be with your moms or your kids today. While video calls have been a wonderful way to stay connected while we’re all staying home, it’s just not the same as being able to hug each other and be together.  Continue Reading

Happy Easter 2020

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Happy Easter from Allegra and Ingrid

This will be a very different Easter for most of us. Even if you’re sheltering in place with family, you won’t be able to get together with a wider circle of family members like you might normally do. If you’re used to celebrating this holiday in your church, watching a video service will not be the same as shaking hands or exchanging hugs with members of your community. For those of us who live alone, not being able to see friends and enjoy a leisurely Easter brunch together makes this a lonely holiday.Continue Reading

Merry Christmas 2019

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Merry Christmas from Allegra and Ingrid

May your Christmas be filled with peace, love and purrs

When I had this card designed late this summer, I never thought Ruby wouldn’t be here with us at Christmas. I debated not posting it, but I love the image so much, I decided to go ahead. It reflects Ruby’s fun-loving spirit purrfectly. I can almost hear the conversation between her and Allegra, with Ruby egging Allegra on to wear a bow on top of her head, too!

Allegra and I will have a quiet Christmas, remembering our special little girl.