Every time you turn on the television, you see and hear about the violence in the world. Whether it is about the War in Iraq or the fighting in Lebanon and Israel, the news flashes scenes of terror and violence. I used to shut the television off, knowing my son was going to Iraq. I didn’t want to know... read more

Today started out with a big surprise for me. My son called from Iraq. He sounded full of energy and called to give me his new Iraqi cell phone number. Not that I can call him often. When his cousin was stationed in Iraq, we called him from my house. A 10 minute phone call cost approximately $25 at that... read more

When Monday came, I knew it would be difficult. I’ve been preparing myself for the last four months for July 17th, yet, when Monday came, I was a basket case. My son, 19, left for Iraq with the Army and I don’t know what to do with myself. He called me Monday morning to say goodbye and told me when... read more

Before writing, I was a real estate agent. I was on the go each and every day. I racked up the miles on my Subaru Outback and constantly lived in fear of being late. Last summer, I was putting approximately 1500 miles on my car each week and what I paid out for gas would’ve easily bought two weeks... read more

This time of year, my mind seems to wander. I find it hard to sit and concentrate on the words I am supposed to be writing. My writing room overlooks the front yard. It is simply a lawn, driveway, lawn and a view into the neighbors yard. Nothing exciting and yet, I keep looking outside. In a few short... read more