I read an article today detailing the negative effects of secondary stress on child protective service workers. Of course the information came as no surprise to me, having lived that life for over two decades. I did feel gratified, however, that research bears out what we already knew: dealing with trauma day in and day … Continue reading Insomnia: Too Much Noise
Parenting The Second Time Around
The life cycle we are taught to believe in may not always go according to plan. We are born. If we are lucky, we are nurtured and cared for by loving caretakers. Through their nurturing acts, we learn to trust and attach. We play, as children and learn to navigate our world. When we reach … Continue reading Parenting The Second Time Around
The Unwanted Hero
Growing up, I had two brothers: Greg was 2 years older and Tony was 2 years younger. Being the middle child (and a girl between 2 boys) had its ups and its downs. As it was a simpler time in the South, we were allowed (and strongly encouraged) to play outside. I like to think … Continue reading The Unwanted Hero
The Journey Back
While spending what I had planned as a relaxing weekend at the beach, I had a heart attack. Unplanned, unexpected and unforeseen, the event changed my universe. There were no warning signs. No pain, no tightness of chest. No elephant sitting on me. No dizziness. No nausea. For the previous week, however, I had a … Continue reading The Journey Back
Blog Interruptus…
I have not blogged in a few weeks due to a heart attack and bypass surgery. Getting stronger every day and will be back soon. Meanwhile enjoying your work! Angie
A Slice of Humble Pie
As a young, ambitious social worker, I worked hard to grow professionally while achieving goals. After a year of focusing, learning and experience, my statistics were good, client satisfaction was high and my small county rated highly in state ranks in child welfare. To be sure, I was fortunate to be part of a great … Continue reading A Slice of Humble Pie
The Serpent in the Shrubbery
At the age of Sixteen, I knew everything there was to know about everything. (dont all teens?) Fiercely independent and willful, I despised being told what to do...by anyone. I equated instruction with criticism and criticism with insult. At the age of Sixteen, I was also embarking on the journey of discovering the Love of … Continue reading The Serpent in the Shrubbery
Taking on the Giant
If you grew up going to Sunday School, you know the story of David and Goliath. If you didn't; the story summary is thus. In a battle between warring factions, one side had recruited a Giant. Each morning this massive warrior would lumber to the front lines, taunting the other side with jeers and accusations … Continue reading Taking on the Giant
The Pain Doesn’t Stop When The Abuse Ends.
Beth and Michael Barns, brand new foster parents, were excited when their first child, Brad was placed with them. They knew his basic story. They knew he had been hurt. They knew he had been removed from his family. He was shy at first, but polite and obedient... In the beginning. They decided that they … Continue reading The Pain Doesn’t Stop When The Abuse Ends.
Follow the Leader
My mother, even now at 77 years old, is a force to be reckoned with. She has always been and continues to be fiercely independent, having her own mind and going full throttle to accomplish her plans. Her steam may be less intense as she walks her path, but the determination burns just as bright. … Continue reading Follow the Leader
Water for Camels 