The Little Things: Holiday Edition

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, Parenting, Self CareLeave a comment

As we enter another holiday season, I’m reminded of the reality that the anticipation of the celebrations and the initial enthusiasm for the traditions can sometimes be derailed by the nuance and contradictions of the season. Excitement can be deflated by stress and unrealistic expectations.  The busyness of the holidays can distract from the joy of the season.  While navigating this year’s festivities , I took the opportunity to reflect on a past post, “The Little Things”, and to revisit the question of “What is saving your life right now?”

A Journey of Friendship

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Wendi2 Comments

As we mark our third blogiversary of The Unexpected Ever Afters, I’m reminded of our goal and mission for this blog: to establish connections, to share stories of everyday life, to support and encourage one another, to remind that we are not alone in our thoughts, anxieties, hopes, and dream; that together, we can tear down isolating boundaries and build connections. In a way, our mission really is about friendship.

Seasons of Procrastination

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: WendiLeave a comment

Ultimately, I guess there’s never really a convenient time to start something new. Procrastination will likely always be a temptation in every life season, and there will always be some inconvenience that seems to delight in delaying the pursuit of a goal. However, as I navigated the procrastination cycle during my family’s most recent move, and as the waiting continued to stretch into its fourth month, I hit a point in the cycle where I realized I couldn’t put my life on hold anymore.

Waves of Change

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, Family, Parenting3 Comments

That even in the midst of endings there is still the hope and excitement that accompanies beginnings.  At times the changes have felt a lot like leaving a portion of my heart, with the memories attached, to specific buildings, schools, jobs.  But, isn’t that part of life?  That we leave a little footprint behind on all of the places we go.  And yet, there always seems to be enough left to begin again.