“If he had cancer would he …” We’ve been to the vet what feels like a half a million times in the last seven weeks. In the days and weeks after Uncle Don died, everyone got sick. I wasn’t doing great physically, I was filled with anxiety, and everything I was experiencing was definitely taking its toll on my animal friends. I’ve always known this, and the vet confirmed that times of stress are particularly challenging for our friends, who are symbiotically linked to us in so many ways. So I’ve tried to keep my shit together, if not for myself then for them, who have no choice…
Letting ducks swim where they may, tidying up and sparking joy
After Uncle Don died, Mom and I were sorting through the details of his funeral with Father Leo, Aunt Rosemary’s brother who has been a priest for the past 61 years. I was telling him about…
The Story of Ginger
Ginger has a wary look in her eyes whenever a stranger is in our midst. When she wandered into our neighbors’ yard 10 months ago, every bone in her body showed through skin that was…
On degrees of better, the benefits of acupuncture and reflecting reflections
I know personally how difficult it is to be “better” and still not be well. It’s a constant exercise in gratitude to look at where you’ve come from and be thankful for where you are, especially…
On illness, faith and my grandmother
I vaguely remember visiting my grandparents’ flower shop when I was really, really little. I wasn’t old enough to recognize dreams come true or anything, but this shop had been a dearly-held fantasy for my grandmother…
Reclaiming My Cheer
The first time my mom shouted “Merry Fucking Christmas” was one of those pivotal holiday memories, the sort that exemplifies what the holidays were like for the Fletcher clan. The circumstances surrounding it were probably awful…
Marvelous Mavens of Manistee’s Movie House
Originally published in the August 2014 issue of Traverse Magazine Tickets, popcorn, candy and pop were sold from folding tables. A temporary food service license was taped to the side of the popcorn machine. Coats were…
For the love of Jessie
Originally published in the Manistee (Mich.) News Advocate on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009 Orphaned, crippled dog gets new lease on life after front leg is amputated While she’ll never be able to tell us where she…
Wind in their sails
Originally published in the May 2014 issue of Traverse Magazine Glancing at the ship’s wheel, the girl insists with all certainty, “I can’t steer.” “Yes you can,” Captain Rorke says and, just like that, Champion’s special…
King Hedge and the Big, Bad Economy
Originally published in the Manistee (Mich.) News Advocate on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008 Once upon a time, there was a press conference. And, at the press conference, there was a King named Hedge. And the King…