My book, ‘Hold on please, Emily,’ discusses several difficult topics that families typically hide away from until they are directly impacted due to the loss of a family member. I’m not saying that there will be a point in time… Read More »Youth response to difficult topics
Music is an incredible way to connect with youth and at my ‘Author Talk‘ I prepared an activity where I played the first minute of each song from the ‘Songs of Hope‘ novel soundtrack and the students a series of… Read More »Songs of Hope for youth
Back in March, I spoke briefly about superpowers using a quote from Spider-Man. That quote was when Uncle Ben tells Peter Parker that “with great power comes great responsibility.” At the time I heard this quote, it didn’t have much… Read More »What Spider-Man teaches us
What are the benefits of sharing these difficult topics with youth: To build the next generation that is more educated and grounded in whatever life throws at them. To help them become adept at handling these situations when faced in… Read More »Why tell the truth to youth
Today is my son’s first day of school and with school resuming this month, this also means the opportunity to resume my ‘Author Talks’ with youth. To celebrate the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year, I will be posting a… Read More »Back to School
Courtney Burnett’s ‘Difficult Gifts,’ explains how sometimes, suffering can open a door to happiness, and through dying, you can learn to fully live. This book was a very inspirational read that speaks about Courtney’s time in Thailand where she was… Read More »Difficult Gifts with Courtney Burnett
Cancer is no laughing matter, and we should not debunk the seriousness of this topic. But, dwelling on the severity of cancer can cause unnecessary stress and negatively affect your recovery. Sometimes, when life happens, we should simply laugh and… Read More »Technoblade shows us laughter is the answer
Australia has a special place in my heart because it was our last family trip before the COVID pandemic, and it was the most enjoyable place I’ve visited too (New Zealand was a close second). I have so many stories… Read More »Travel Journal: Sydney
Each month, I suggest 3 inspirational songs to add to your playlist that are motivational and inspiring. This month’s picks are: Journey ‘Don’t Stop Believin‘ John Lennon ‘Imagine‘ Aerosmith ‘Dream On‘ Check out the September edition of ‘Hold On‘ to… Read More »Top 3 inspirational songs to add to your playlist: September 2021 edition
‘Hold On‘ is a digital magazine that includes stories of hope, inspirational content, writing tips, author and musician interviews, and fun writing activities. Here’s a sneak peek at this month’s activities. This month, we explore your thoughts, emotions, and imagination.… Read More »September edition: sneak peek at the activities