Category: Author: Jessica

New Year: Focus on Living

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, Self CareLeave a comment

As I prepared to write my 2025 post, I thought to myself, this year is going to be different, I am going to write about slowing down and living in the moment. Except as I re-read my past New Years posts, I realized that in essence this has been my theme all along.  It is a reminder of how easy it is for me throughout the year to get pulled into the hustle culture and catch phrases on how to successfully do it all, that I forget to remember that I previously decided not to buy into it. Nevertheless, this New Year I am recommitting to continuing the journey of enjoying the day-to-day life I live.

Literary Memory Lane

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, ParentingLeave a comment

This summer, I have been exploring with my kids one of my favorite hobbies, reading.   As my kids’ interest in reading has grown, their literary journey has gotten me to think about books from my childhood and their significant impact in fostering my love of reading.  It is fascinating to recall ways that a handful of stories unexpectedly influenced my hopes, dreams, and life goals.  

June Reflections

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, Family, Self Care2 Comments

I enjoyed soaking up the start of summer with some extra time to spend with my family as well as additional time to relax. I found myself reading more, laughing more, and even sleeping more soundly.  In the blink of an eye, the month was over.  As I transitioned into July, I thought about a reflection practice that I learned from a favorite author of mine, Emily P. Freeman. 

Breaking the Trap of Negative Thinking

On By theunexpectedeveraftersIn Author: Jessica, Self CareLeave a comment

Recently I lovingly reminded my son, a “small mistake doesn’t change who he is. He is still thoughtful, smart, and kind.  Everyone makes mistakes.”  I firmly believe this truth.  And yet, when the situation is flipped, I struggle to talk to myself in a similar, gentle way.  Instead, I find myself ruminating on the could-haves and should-haves.  Life is irritating that way.