There’s No Place Like Home

When the construction site’s floodlights spilled into every window, I woke instantly. It’s amazing how quickly the senses flip on when the environment shifts. Even before the sound came, I felt my body retract, bracing. Not even three seconds later—boom. A cannon-blast thunderclap. Southern storms feel almost theatrical, like a movie production team is outsideContinue reading “There’s No Place Like Home”

Gone With the Wind

Severe weather is in the forecast—heavy winds, thunder, lightning, rain. Naturally, I have the National Weather Service radar pulled up because, after sifting through the conflicting chaos of social media and my weather app, I need the real source. A tornado watch is posted three hours west. Typical. The South doesn’t just have weather—it performsContinue reading “Gone With the Wind”

My Friend, Peter: A New Beginning

I received this message: “Hello Jaclynn, this is Susanna (Peter’s partner). I see that you tried to reach him. My dear Peter passed away. I’m texting because calling makes me too emotional.” I told her: I had hoped this wasn’t the message I’d receive—but I also wondered. Peter was one of the dearest friends I’veContinue reading “My Friend, Peter: A New Beginning”