When I was a kid I was obsessed with The Wizard of Oz. Throughout my life my parents (AKA: my mom and stepdad) recounted tales of me watching it over and over, reciting lines, to the point that their stories feel more like memories. …

Depression confuses people. Any mental health issue, at least in my experience, tends to confound even the most understanding and intelligent individuals. I knew this already but was reminded about it during the hours at the clinic getting my sixth ketamine infusion — yes, hours. I’m a tough stick; it’s…

There was something about his eyes, the way he sat in the chair, his unyielding posture fortified from confidence, intelligence, and kindness with a seemingly infinite depth; by day he’s (let’s call him Dr. M for now) a doctor of anesthesiology, and by night he uses his knowledge and abilities…

This past weekend a friend checked in with me via text. I told her, among various musings about bits and pieces of my life while sheltering-in-place, I felt purposeless since the bakery we work at is temporarily closed. She responded, rather wisely, that my purpose isn’t solely tied to my…

A few days ago Jeff arrived home from work and said, “Someone at work asked me if you sewed.” I cackled. I’m 33, own a sewing machine, but I have absolutely no idea how to use it. Sewing falls into the category of domesticity, but it never fell into the…

In the last few days more and more lists are showing up on Facebook, some have titles, some don’t. People get bored so they list ten unpopular opinions and their friends list their unpopular opinions and on and on. Interspersed throughout these posts are simple complaints of boredom. Before these…

Since becoming sick with what could be COVID-19 (to be clear, I have no diagnosis other than I’m sick with something causing my asthma to flare up — which deserves its own write up because I lack a clear action plan because both physicians I’ve seen for it were traveling…

As I shared earlier this week I haven’t been feeling well. Today, after my spouse made a call to our local COVID-19 hotline on my behalf, I was once again put into a queue. This was the third call to the hotline regarding my health, and I didn’t expect anything…

A few days ago online wars were raging over the safety of takeout, curbside, and food delivery services, at least in the region I call home. Shortly after all Illinoisans were put into a “Stay at Home” order, the battle became even more fervent. …