Parkes Family

Dear Mom, I'm not even sure how to describe the year 2020, let alone this holiday season. It's been weird. Different. Yet refreshingly simple. I am spending time with close family and small groups of friends here and there. It's wholesome and it's deliberate without pressure to be at all events or gatherings. So there's that. I know that other people are struggling. Some find these times everything but simple. For that reason, the holidays are complicated. You brought us up to give, to be charitable, especially during Christmastime. Do you know who needs help right now? EVERYONE. Most people need help rebuilding their faith in humanity after the past election and pandemic policies that created tumultous relationships between friends and family. Some working people need financial help because of the strains on the economy from the shutdown. Oh what shutdown? I forgot you don't know anything about it. So, we are in a pandemic. A virus, new(ish) to the p

 Tribute to Yellowstone Wolf Watchers  Welcome to Jellystone National Park  If you’ve never been in nature with a scope, you may not understand the draw. It’s so far away! How can you really see anything? Allow me to illustrate how truly connected you can feel from afar behind the lens of a Swarovski telescope. To watch an animal in its natural habitat, from afar, without obstructing the behaviors can be a breathtaking experience! If you’ve used the phrase ‘to be a fly on the wall’ you know what it feels to want to observe behavior that isn’t modified by your presence. Instead of a fly let’s be the rare pygmy owl and instead of a wall let's pick Montana’s big sky over Yellowstone rather than an interior wall. That’s what it’s like to view wildlife through a scope hundreds of yards away. The combination of the other four senses makes the viewing come to life in a way that is quite humbling. It is truly a privilege to be amongst such grandeur in God’s country, witnessing uninterrupte

Tribute to Yellowstone Wolf Watchers  Welcome to Jellystone National Park If you’ve never been in nature with a scope, you may not understand the draw. It’s so far away! How can you really see anything? Allow me to illustrate how truly connected you can feel from a distance behind the lens of a Swarovski telescope. To watch an animal in its natural habitat, from afar, without obstructing the behaviors, can be a breathtaking experience! If you’ve used the phrase ‘to be a fly on the wall’ you know what it feels to want to observe behavior that isn’t modified by your presence. Instead of a fly let’s be the rare pygmy owl and instead of an interior wall let's pick Montana’s big sky over Yellowstone! That’s what it’s like to view wildlife through a scope hundreds of yards away. The combination of the other four senses makes the viewing come to life in a way that is quite humbling.  It is truly a privilege to be amongst such grandeur in God’s country, witnessing uninterrupted musings of

  I did it. I did something big. I haven't done something that scares me in awhile. Something really big. By choice anyhow.  Monumental things have happened to me but this one was of my own doing. I took a leap, not of faith, but of boldness and bravery. I have talked about pursuing my doctorate for over five years. I milled it over with my mom, confided in my husband and shared my aspirations with those close to me. Encouraging words and sentiments of support flowed from everyone's mouths. I don't know what happened but I found a program, applied, took the GRE, passed, gained acceptance to University of Louisiana for the doctoral program in Instruction and Curriculum and almost now done with my first semester (8 week session).  The first person I wanted to call when I received my passing scores and that entrance to the program letter (it's still on my fridge) was my mom. The reason this is even feasible in my mind is because of her endless confidence in me. Like maybe

I married a mama's boy and am quite certain I am raising one myself. Unbeknownst to me, this little boy would grab a hold of my heartstrings in a different way than my daughter. I don't need to apologize or worry that my sentiments about my son overshadow her. I know this because she is smitten too. Beyond her wildest imagination and initial disappointment at the gender reveal.... she loves him more and more everyday! There's just something about little boys. His mischievous grin. Catching glimpses of features that resemble his handsome father. The squeeze hugs and rough and tumble play. Half the time I'm scared of the occasional bite or head butt that is inevitable but I keep coming back for more. My favorite part? It's the most active love I've ever felt! It's so hands-on, in your face, sometimes loud, but it's an all in. Smothery sometimes, running a tractor up your leg, shoving a raisin in your mouth kind of business. And guess what? I LOVE IT

~December 27th, 2019~ Keeping a journal with   sentiments of gratitude  has filled my heart with such appreciation. It has given me pause and allows me the grace I need on days I struggle. It can also be the cherry on top to a great day. I look forward to this time every night. Most nights, the pen glides easily across the pages about my family, friends, and heartfelt emotions. I believe this has been easier to do during the holidays, but so cathartic. "Don't get your tinsel in a tangle" The word 'mom' has been written quite a bit but more in the way of how fulfilled I am to bring the holiday spirit into my home. The way she did. Hosting Christmas this year, with my dad, sisters, brother-in-law, as well as John's family was effortless. It was not stressful and my mom would be so proud I didn't get my tinsel in a tangle (our favorite Christmas quote that was plastered on everything back in the day). I knew when to accommodate for them and when