Author Archives: Jaclynn Loibl

Breakfast time hasn’t even arrived, and already Evelyn’s asking me for candy and a movie. As usual, I kindly decline her requests. But she’s absolutely thrilled at the idea of bringing chocolate chips for show and tell, representing the delightful “ch” sound of the day. So many things have this incredible golden glow like theContinue reading “Golden Growth”

On my way to snag a free Patio design book—I mean, who can resist Buy Nothing’s awesome giveaways?—I decided to give my old pal Jesse a ring. Surprisingly, instead of a text, he actually called me back. It was a pleasant surprise, to say the least. Jesse and I go way back, all the wayContinue reading “My Friend, Jesse”

Embracing all of myself – quirks, traumas, successes, and failures – is an act of self-love. Being authentically and awkwardly me, whether at the social security office, in meeting new people, or in a blog post is truly one of the greatest gifts I give myself. There’s this fascinating concept called the somatic marker hypothesis,Continue reading “Awkwardly Resilient”

Imagine a serene outdoor space designed for self-reflection and exploration. A place where curvy paths guide you through lush surroundings, soothing scents, and comfortable seating invites you to take it all in. This transformative project starts with the untapped potential of a large patch of grass. Join me as we explore the initial steps andContinue reading “Meditative Garden: Creating a Reflection Spot”

I am immersed in a tranquil state, like a serene sea with no ripples, stars twinkling brilliantly overhead, and a gentle breeze carrying no worries. Speaking of calmness, Dave’s 40th birthday party added to my serenity. Reconnecting with friends, sharing stories, and watching our children play filled the evening with sweetness. Observing the sixteen adultsContinue reading “Language Alchemy”

Had I known Dewalt’s battery-powered weed whacker had the power and stamina of a hydroelectric dam, I’d bought it sooner. I am beat! No matter much I’d love to tell you all about the knee-length grasses and blackberries I obliterated or how satisfying it was blasting roots and weeds away to reveal hidden pavers andContinue reading “Gratefulness Overload”

Once Dave got past the shock of shaving his beard into extra-wide sideburns, Joe Dirt style, he took the new look and ran with it. “Depending on how quickly this grows back, I could see carving different shapes monthly.” I’m rocking a side ponytail, hot pink, blue, and purple eye shadow, and a short, straplessContinue reading “Eighties Throwback”

I don’t drink anymore. Otherwise, I’d share my mind. I wouldn’t dare express anger or bitterness at the sinkhole you once occupied—rather an unfortunate disappointment. Did you know they chopped down the cherry tree we carved our initials in? Or that the pair of saplings we planted in my backyard have grown tall? Funny howContinue reading “Battle Trench”

Head back, propped on my chair hammock, I gently swing as a large plane cuts through the sky. A mile or more away, a muffled house party’s musical beat hits my ear. Much closer the frog’s belt their song while my finger’s type. Sometimes I want to throw caution to the wind, stay up allContinue reading “Forbidden Furbaby”

I do not need to do so, but I ask myself: What does a breakup look like for someone with a healthy sense of self? After being estranged for ten years, a father and daughter sat together on my office couch this evening. Being a supportive fly on the wall at their reunion was heart-wrenchinglyContinue reading “Legit To Quit”