I cannot find words easily these days. Grief of losing both my parents is certainly a contributing factor, but it’s more than that. The world seems to have gone mad. Mean even. Ugliness is everywhere. I don’t do well with intentional spitefulness. My heart shrinks back. I was taught if you don’t have something nice … Continue reading Culture Shock
Author: michellegunnin
Real Fall
Golden light filtered through my window creating a morning altar…the whole room alight with silent comfort. I rise and follow the light to my back porch, watching it rise and cover the valley. Filtering between the trees, waking the birds and their songs, even the tree frogs acknowledge the light. No creature is immune from … Continue reading Real Fall
National Treasures
It is no secret I am a nature lover. I feel connected to the trees. The birds are the soundtrack of my life. The babbling waters of creeks and rivers my companions. When a tree is cut down I feel it in my bones. I know it has to happen sometimes, but it hurts me. … Continue reading National Treasures
September 11…A Reflection
On 9-11 the invisible became visible. What was only words and threats before, came to life in vivid horrifying color. There was nothing to be done but watch with mouths agape. Stunned silence. Tears on mute, as the reality set in while sitting in front of the TV. The unfolding of the day brought shock … Continue reading September 11…A Reflection
Switzerland Recap
Our trip to Switzerland wasn’t the usual tourist trip. We didn’t try to see the whole country in a few days. It was more of a healing visit. A time to relax and renew our tired souls; it just so happened it was a gorgeous place to do so. The weather was warm, but not … Continue reading Switzerland Recap
Our Swiss Sister
We have a Swiss sister named Isabelle. She became a part of our family around 1983, because she came to live with Mom and Dad in Clayton. At 15 years old, she travelled to the U.S. on her own. She ended up at Rabun County High School, where she and Melinda became fast friends. Since … Continue reading Our Swiss Sister
A Great Love (Part 2)
In 2020, when we moved Mom to memory care I wrote this blog entitled A Great Love. It was a tribute to the love I witnessed between my parents and how their devotion to each other impacted everyone around them. Now they celebrate their Great Love every day. I can’t imagine. What is it like … Continue reading A Great Love (Part 2)
Sweet Dreams
I have two memories which float through my brain when I wake in the night. They circle in my head, like planes in a holding pattern waiting on the right conditions to land. It seems they never quite touch the ground, but just keep the loop going enough to prevent my mind from resting fully. … Continue reading Sweet Dreams
Dear Grief,
Pardon the wee hour. It seems to me this is your most active time, when I am sleeping, or attempting to. Grief, I am more than familiar with your sneaky-behind-the-scenes ways. Frustration bubbles over at a family member or a co-worker. Sadness pops up at a television commercial and tears roll. Confusion over which cereal … Continue reading Dear Grief,
A Tribute to Schools
While doing random errands yesterday, I came upon multiple school buses running their routes. Getting ready. Making sure they know where to go and how to get there. Bus running is not an easy task. You couldn’t pay me enough money to be a bus driver. A million? No thanks. School bus drivers are made … Continue reading A Tribute to Schools
Michelle's Mosaic 