I Finally Conquered A Childhood Fear.

Dear friends,

A few years ago, on New Year’s Eve, I made myself a promise. Fed up with avoiding certain activities, I decided to face physical fears linked to my childhood. Since then I’ve skied, biked for miles, and paddle boarded in the middle of Acadia National Park.

The world rarely felt safe, so why trust others or even myself ? I sometimes struggle with not only physical feats, but also being publicly vulnerable. I’m starting to understand that may be why I am fiercely private.

I spent my birthday in the mountains of Vermont; it’s our happy place. And a word has persistently popped into my head for weeks–FREE. I’m finally gifting myself FREEdom to let go.

It is interesting because my close friends often say I’m “too honest.” In personal relationships, I tackle the tough stuff and speak my truth without hesitation. I know no other way. It’s who I am and will always be. And it’s time to share more of my story with you.

My husband, daughter, son, and I strolled down a path we’ve walked several times before. Todd stopped and spotted a particularly stunning tree.


“I’m going to climb it, Mom.” I held up a shaky hand and told him to wait a second. He stepped back as I inched forward.


“I’m right here if you need help,” Todd replied, his hand outstretched.


I inhaled and relaxed my shoulders.
Thick, sturdy limbs reached toward the cerulean sky.

“Thank you, sweetie. I’ve got this,” I said while stepping up and gripping the trunk. (My husband smiled, already sitting on the branch.)

I did it. This is 48!