Junior Prom: A Note to My Son

Well, we’re here. Junior Prom. How is that even possible? And is there any chance at all of prepping the child who is currently experiencing a case of the Terrible-Seventeens? Probably not, but I did give it a go.

Influential Behavior

Would you ever walk out of a relationship simply to avoid saying, "Hey, nice job!"? Before you do, ask yourself this: What am I really feeling?

Mid-Week Surprise!

Remember in Monday's blog where I did a little double asterisk thingy? No? It's fine. I'm not mad. Really. It looked like this: "I do try to remind myself that my “Open Book” policy should be reserved for my blog or podcast.**" Or this: podcast** Right, well anyway ... it's fine. Here I am on … Continue reading Mid-Week Surprise! →

Meet the Author!

If you're local to Richmond (the one in Virginia), mark your calendar! I'll be hosting a book signing at The Local Cup in Mechanicsville (also the one in Virginia). April 22, 2023: 2:00pm-4:00pm Haven't bought What to Expect When You Weren't Expecting yet? No worries, The Local Cup will have copies available! If you'd like … Continue reading Meet the Author! →

Toilet Paper Paws

Are you there, God? It’s me Jyl. It’s me Jyl and, for the third time in five months, I am back on the healing couch. Also, are you mad at me?

TV Wars. Or is it Streaming?

I know I am of a different generation than my children, but there are still topics on which I refuse to accept side-eyes that scream, “Ok, Boomer.” Take my favorite past time.

Normalize This.

The benefits of a work hiatus? More free time. The "maybe this isn't a benefit?" More free space! Welcome to my brain.

Just Wait

It was just a few weeks ago that a friend of mine called to chat and suggested that she run away from home with no forwarding address. Been there, thought that. Who hasn’t? We can all admit an urge to flee from our children occasionally, can’t we?

Pimp My Prose

When I decided to write a book three years ago, I wasn't kidding (although I did think it would only take a minute). You are never too old for new goals.

The Meatball that Saved Our Marriage.

At the end of each year, I like to reflect back on the moments that shaped it for me. In 2022, a frozen meatball saved our marriage.