What happened to the days when we could disagree but still sit down and share a meal together? When did it become a win at all costs? When did we stop listening to one another?

I would like to think I am discreet, stealth, and as imperceptible as the Instagram algorithm…but I am watching you. And for that I am grateful, because I have learned - and continue to learn - so much.

Flying makes me nervous, changing time zones is exhausting, the logistics of travel are frustrating, and packing and unpacking - and then packing and unpacking, and then packing and unpacking again - my carry-on with a week’s worth of clothes…is annoying.

Is it all worth it?

While we wait for the picture-worthy moment when our son or daughter crosses the stage to accept a diploma, let me flip things around and share with you three lessons I have learned from our soon-to-be graduate. Our children are great teachers.

I have a secret - I want a tattoo.

While our kids consider the dogs the varsity team and the cats junior varsity, the JV team adds a different kind of value to our home, and I am amazed at how much they teach me by how they live life on their own terms.