When I encounter the withholding of information or praise it always makes me feel uncomfortable. Particularly if I am the one contemplating not providing the information or encouragement.   Withholding things, in general, may seem powerful at the moment, but it is my belief that it is a sign of weakness.  A sign that one is unable to communicate effectively,  forgive, and/or find a solution to the problem.  Sometimes withholding information is a sign of avoidance and or negative use of power.    It seems as though I encounter different types of withholding on a daily basis.  Some days it might…

Nutrition has always been a priority for my family.  It is something that is important to my mother, to me, and to my children.  My mother made sure there was a balanced meal on the table, including fruits, vegetables, and protein.  As I raise my children I have the same priority, on a daily basis, I work at finding a nutritional balance for my children and myself.  It is not easy finding things my kids will eat and hopefully enjoy that build their bodies into sound machines. Foods that will prepare our bodies for the stress, sports, and activities that…

One of my daughters and I had a conversation this week that brought back memories.  She asked me what gift I received that was most memorable.  I asked if she meant the most memorable in a positive way.  She laughed and said, just most memorable.  Important to the story is my mother was very good at giving gifts.  Most of the time she nailed the assignment and brought joy to the receiver.  Excluding the year one of my brothers wanted land and she gave him a jar of dirt and a pencil box.  And of course, my 16th birthday. On…