08/26/2026
It’s been the hardest year of my life.
I want to come back. So here I am. A few more wrinkles, more gray hairs, more strength, more courage, more experience, more compassion, more fear, more exhaustion, more fearlessness, more understanding of the gravity and fragility of life and each day that we are granted. More gratitude.
Edgar’s stroke and events since not only rocked our reality but changed who I am as a woman, wife and mother. My schedule and days are harder than they have ever been. If you were a fly on the wall watching me do it you would be both impressed and concerned. I am too. It has to be done, because I refuse to give up on the life we promised our children. At least not yet. So I will do it. I’ve also been drowning in that stubbornness.
When I have the time and I take the space to breathe I can hear myself still in there. Calling for me to remember my core. Not letting the story of my past or the story of this year drown out how hard I have worked to become this woman in between. I am someone of tremendous hope and persistence. I do not go down easy. I have always fought for the best in myself and others. It is why I became a psychotherapist and why my mission each morning is to be the best person and mom I can be and try to raise the strongest, kindest humans I can. If I want to be known for anything it is that.
Now, as my husband’s primary caretaker as well, my role of being a wife, friend and woman has been challenged tremendously. As I watched him nearly die and transform physically and cognitively overnight I was silenced in what was being asked of me next. (And I don’t shut up easily) Now, as he fights to come back from a significant brain injury and mobility limitations I am reminded that I can come back too.
So here I am, putting my big hoops and eyeliner back on. Turning on the dance music and Disney itineraries and allowing excitement for fall, my favorite season. I’m not sure what is ahead for us but I would like to recognize myself again and it starts with trying.
I love all of you who have stayed by my side, encouraging me to not give up on myself too. Thank you. Thanks for reading. Let’s do this. 🧡Jenn
