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?

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.

Going to the Chapel … someone else’s, but still.

I am fully prepared to amp up my Wedding Pinterest Board as we head into this new year. Okay, yes, I am already married. It’s just that I haven’t been to a wedding in years and 2023 marks my nephew's big day and I may already be out of control.

Goodbye, Sweet Coalbalt

He was only a cat. Right? Just a cat. Not like a dog with all its unconditional love, cuddly coat, and endless loyalty. Or an actual person, God forbid. Just a cat.

Tales From His Side

Sure, I let my husband write a guest blog. But dang it if I was going to give him the excerpt, as well. Also, it took FOREVER to type this far (one-handed). #blessed

The Longest One Night Stand

The first time my now-husband told me he loved me, we were standing next to his car in the parking lot of the same restaurant in which we had met four months earlier. It was awkward on many levels.

A Parental Rebrand

Ten seconds ago, you were knee-deep in diapers. And now? That child (or children) are gone. You spent eighteen years preparing your tiny humans for a launch and, in the process, somehow, you forgot to prepare yourself.

My Father. Oh, How He Has Risen.

It’s an interesting view, as a child, to witness the decline of one parent and the subsequent rise of the other as a need for caretaking develops.

Father’s Day Done Right (You’re Welcome)

Men? Men really just want to feel regular fulfillment in each of only four quadrants. Tap into about half of those quadrants each day and you will be giving yours everything he needs to maintain a sense of running bliss that comes with generalized happiness and contentment.