4 Annoying Truths about Breakups

I realized last night that I haven't had to defend myself from inappropriate blame for over two and a half years. Coming off a four day vacation during which I actually rested and had fun, it occurred to me that I am really and truly not the person I used to be. Vacation time used … Continue reading 4 Annoying Truths about Breakups

Healing Your Inner Child: The Basics

We all have an inner child, the part of us that is still connected to our childhood, upbringing, and the things we learned in our most formative years. Unfortunately, when we were wounded in childhood, those pains and patterns often come with us and repeat throughout our adult life, affecting relationships, work, and even our … Continue reading Healing Your Inner Child: The Basics

Black and white photo of Caitlin facing the camera holding a bouquet of fake flowers, with other flowers at their feet. Caitlin's face is serious and thoughtful for this blog about traumaversary.

5 Things To Do For Your Traumaversary

As we go through our lives after a traumatic event, we may feel like we're over it on the surface, but our body remembers the stress and may repeat it. This can be triggered by the time of year, specific smells, triggering circumstances that remind you of the trauma, and more. This post is about … Continue reading 5 Things To Do For Your Traumaversary

When Art is Your Love Language

When I'm so happy and satisfied and moved and full of love about something or someone, I make art about it. I write poetry or love letters. I paint. I create little cartoon portraits on internet apps. As children and still as adults, long afternoons and evenings were spent with my brother and sister, reaching … Continue reading When Art is Your Love Language

Staying Estranged in a Global Pandemic

When Coronavirus made it to the United States, I worried about my dad. He’s a lifelong smoker over 60. But I haven’t checked on him, because my sister and I haven’t spoken to him in over a year. That time has been uneventful, besides us each getting a message from him on Thanksgiving. I thought … Continue reading Staying Estranged in a Global Pandemic

An Open Letter to the Person Who Isn’t Ready to Leave

Do you suspect that there's something amiss in your relationship? Whether it's with a romantic partner or a friend or a family member, it doesn't matter. But something feels wrong and you think maybe if you had better boundaries or could stand up for yourself this wouldn't be happening. You might be wondering if you … Continue reading An Open Letter to the Person Who Isn’t Ready to Leave

A breakup doesn’t mean you failed

When you're deeply committed to someone, the end of that relationship can be devastating. Whether it's a romantic relationship, friendship, or even removing a family member from your life -- breaking up is hard. But it doesn't mean you've failed at anything. I reject the notion that a relationship that doesn't last a lifetime is … Continue reading A breakup doesn’t mean you failed