• Essays,  General Thoughts

    I’m a liar

    Hello, my name is Brandi, and I am a liar. But we all are. I can’t think of any person unless they are an infant or non-verbal child or adult who hasn’t told a lie at some point. There are different types of lies.  White lies are my specialty; harmless lies often used to spare someone’s feelings. Malicious lies are different, used to get someone else into trouble or to protect yourself from trouble. I don’t make a habit of maliciously lying because I do have a conscience. I see the grey area with those types, which is where lies of omission live. Being a parent has turned me into…

  • Essays,  General Thoughts

    Bah! Humbug: What’s Christmas all about?

    I find myself identifying with Charlie Brown and Ebenezer Scrooge this year. For some reason, I’m just not in the mood for Christmas. Normally, I love this time of year: the traditions, the music, the food, and the family togetherness. I like seeing the lights and decorations, smelling the apple spice and peppermint, and reminding my children that it is better to give than to receive. I enjoy donating to charities that help children have a present because all children deserve that regardless of their circumstances. My favorite part of A Charlie Brown Christmas is when Linus, asked by Charlie Brown if anyone can tell him what Christmas is all about, stands on…

  • College Poetry,  Poetry

    Beside Myself

    “Beside Myself” Free Verse Poetry, Poetry Workshop, 2002 I’m amazed I didn’t cry That night when I parked beside the lake To talk to God. I needed Him to listen to me Because you would leave in eight hours. I knew that fifty-two weeks Would pass before I could see you or Kiss you again. Until you’re home, I’ll close my eyes and Imagine you walking beside me. It’s been forty-four weeks since You left for overseas adventure. Tell me, baby, Am I still the only woman who You can talk to for six hours straight? More than I need the courage I prayed for long ago, I need to…