Category: Uncategorized

  • The World-Builder

    The World-Builder

    Today I want to introduce you to The World-Builder, the firstborn son of my body and the middle of my Little People trio.  Even from the time that he was little, he didn’t just look to the sky and see stars. He looked at the stars and wondered, what lays beyond what I can see.…

  • The Plaid Prince

    The Plaid Prince

    Welcome to our newest crew member, The Plaid Prince!

  • The Kindred Spirit

    The Kindred Spirit

    What do you do when your five-year-old takes the “if your friends jumped off a bridge” metaphor literally? You climb up the railing, hold her hand, and leap. Meet the Kindred Spirit: my creative, molasses-cookie-baking, stubborn-as-a-mule daughter who reminds me every day that being “brave” often starts with a single splash.

  • The Little Roar

    The Little Roar

    Meet “The Little Roar,” the youngest member of the family cast who’s already outsmarting the adults. From whispering roars at sleeping uncles to curious “investigations” of the family dog’s nose, this toddler is a blend of adorable innocence and devious brilliance. Get a glimpse into the life of a child who is equal parts “Grinch-grin”…

  • The Dino-Mite

    The Dino-Mite

    Today, let me introduce you to my first grandson, our little Dino-Mite. Which he is really is. Rarely seen without a smile on his face, he is full of energy. I’m am already seeing seeing some serious character breaking through. He doesn’t quite know his audience but he’s working on it. A future Entertainer in…

  • The Ohana Princess

    The Ohana Princess

    The post reflects on a resilient young woman’s journey battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, highlighting her adventurous spirit, humor, and strong family bonds. Despite challenges, she served as a source of encouragement to others, ultimately embodying unwavering hope. After seven years of fighting, she is remembered as a beloved family member and testimony of faith.

  • The Entertainer (The Instigator)

    The Entertainer (The Instigator)

    Being a middle child in the family, The Entertainer embodies a vibrant personality, seamlessly transitioning between playful antics and heartfelt affection. Known for humor and genuine care, he reminds everyone of the importance of laughter, creating a lively family atmosphere.

  • Grieving is a Weird Thing

    Grieving is a Weird Thing

    Grieving is a complex experience, marked by a painful void that leads to emotional turmoil and fear of forgetting the deceased. However, one clings to these memories, seeking solace in faith and strength to move forward.

  • Ten Years Thyroid Cancer Free!

    Ten Years Thyroid Cancer Free!

    Ten years ago, I underwent thyroid surgery due to suspected cancer. Fortunately, it was confirmed as thyroid cancer, but the mass had diminished, eliminating the need for further treatments. I’m cancer-free now.

  • Welcome to: This Little Thing We Call Life

    Welcome to: This Little Thing We Call Life

    Over five years, the blog Life.TheStruggleIsReal has reflected personal challenges, health issues, and homeschooling struggles. The author plans to shift the focus towards positivity and growth by renaming the blog to ThisLittleThingWeCallLife, inviting readers to join the journey.

  • Doc, I’d rather die young….

    Doc, I’d rather die young….

    In my last post I ended rather abruptly with my little people’s response to the news that I had to have a third cancer surgery. This was November of 2013. In December 2013 I had a third lumpectomy and finally received the news, ‘We got it all.’ Thank God. It was beginning to feel like…

  • You Know You’re An Adult When….

    You Know You’re An Adult When….

    The author reflects on the realization of adulthood when the excitement of fixing a common item surpasses childhood joys. After years of neglect, a simple and inexpensive solution brings newfound delight to daily life.