jennhesse

Kindergarten

This boy is going to kindergarten. This boy is a little nervous, more than a little excited, and so very eager to learn and engage in the world around him. This boy has an inquisitive mind, a servant heart, and a mischievous twinkle in his eye that both disturbs and delights those entrusted with hisContinue reading “Kindergarten”

Dreams beyond expectation

As much as it lives up to its celebrated reputation as The Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland also successfully fulfills its potential as Destination Meltdown. This makes sense. Combine parents, who are eager to wring every last drop of magic out of an overhyped theme park for which they paid a fortunate so their familyContinue reading “Dreams beyond expectation”

#HonorAllMoms

Mom. A word that evokes… So many labels: Biological. Adoptive. Foster. Expectant. Bereaved. “Real.” Birth. Legal. Spiritual. Single. Working. Stay-at-home. Soccer. Helicopter. Teen. Grand. Great-grand. God. In-law. In-love. So many descriptions: Sleep-deprived. Stressed. Worn out. Exasperated. Caring. Strong. Selfless. Gracious. So many emotions: Grief. Bitterness. Worry. Disappointment. Joy. Pride. Gratitude. Love. So many seasons: New.Continue reading “#HonorAllMoms”

20 questions to ask a friend facing infertility

Have you ever asked a dumb question? If you answered no, congratulations! You are the smartest person ever – and a big, fat liar. Posing ignorant inquiries isn’t a practice limited to those whose names end in Kardashian. We all have asked someone a question that was irrational, tactless, ill-advised, or utterly asinine. Circumstances thatContinue reading “20 questions to ask a friend facing infertility”

My Pinterest party is better than yours

I had a sobering revelation the other day. While texting a friend about planning speakers and activities for our moms’ group, I discovered a major shortcoming in my life, and perhaps fatal flaw in my involvement helping lead this group: I have no marketable skills to offer other moms. Fellow mamas have come and sharedContinue reading “My Pinterest party is better than yours”