Author: Jessica Grono

The California wildfires have once again captured headlines, leaving a trail of destruction and heartache in their wake. These devastating fires, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, have impacted thousands of lives and communities. Everyone can help even if you are nowhere near the situation. People often criticisize people for praying in situations like these, but prayer is the most useful tool. Here’s a closer look at the current situation and what we can do to support those affected. Keep in mind all of the lives lost of loved ones. People who have disabilities are extremely vulnerable because it’s…

In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s easy to get lost in the endless scroll of social media feeds, emails, and notifications. While technology offers countless benefits, it’s also essential to take a step back and unplug from time to time. A digital detox can help you reconnect with yourself, your surroundings, and the people around you. I know I use my technology for work, housework, helping the kids with homework and playing games. I have to remember to step away and look at the beauty around us. Here’s a guide to understanding the benefits and steps of a digital detox. What…

Happiness is a deeply personal journey, and finding what truly makes us happy can be a transformative experience. Over time, I’ve discovered the things that bring me genuine joy and contentment. Here’s a reflection on what makes me truly happy: 1. Meaningful Connection The relationships in my life are a significant source of happiness. Spending quality time with family and friends, sharing laughter, and creating memories together bring a sense of fulfillment and belonging. These meaningful connections remind me of the importance of love and companionship. I love being a mother. Motherhood is the hardest job that anyone could have.…

Today was filled with moments that brought me joy and reminded me of the beauty in everyday life. In the hustle and bustle of daily routines, it’s easy to overlook the small things that can bring us happiness. Here’s a reflection on what brought me joy today: Morning Conversations The day started on a high note with a heartwarming conversation with a dear friend. We shared laughs, caught up on life, and simply enjoyed each other’s company. These moments of connection remind me of the importance of friendships and how they add richness to our lives. I am fortunate to…

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. But once the festivities end and everyday life resumes, it’s common to feel a sense of sadness or letdown. These post-holiday blues can be challenging, but with a few proactive steps, you can ease the transition and maintain a positive outlook. I know I feel sad when Christmas ends. The decorations, the music, the food- but , most importantly, being with family and making the memories are the best parts about Christmas. Here are some strategies to help you cope: 1. Embrace a Routine Returning to a regular routine…

We all have areas where we can grow, and recognizing our weaknesses is the first step toward self-improvement. By understanding and acknowledging these aspects of ourselves, we can work to become better and more balanced individuals. Here’s a reflection on some of my weaknesses and how I plan to address them. 1. Perfectionism Perfectionism often drives me to set unrealistically high standards for myself. While striving for excellence can be positive, it sometimes leads to unnecessary stress and a fear of failure. To combat this, I aim to embrace the idea that “done is better than perfect” and allow myself…

Athetoid cerebral palsy, also known as dyskinetic cerebral palsy, is a type of cerebral palsy characterized by involuntary, uncontrolled muscle movements. This condition affects muscle tone and coordination, making it challenging for individuals to perform everyday activities. I have Athetoid Cerebral Palsy. Having Athetoid Cerebral Palsy is good, in a sense, because I’m in shape and flexible. What I don’t enjoy is always moving and people stare. Bad spasms occur at the worst times- like in Mass, a funeral, a wedding, an important meeting or meeting the man of your dreams. Basically, any chance to really embarrass you, a bad…

As the clock strikes midnight, a new year unfolds, brimming with possibilities and opportunities. It’s the perfect time to set intentions and resolutions that will guide me toward personal growth and fulfillment in 2025. Here are my resolutions for the coming year: 1. Prioritize Self-Care In 2025, I resolve to put self-care at the forefront of my daily routine. This means taking time to nurture my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. From regular exercise and healthy eating to mindfulness practices and setting boundaries, I will invest in activities that rejuvenate my spirit. In August, I came off my path of…

In a world that often focuses on what we need to improve, it’s essential to take a moment to recognize and celebrate our strengths. These qualities define us, empower us, and help us navigate through life’s challenges. Here’s a reflection on the strengths that make me who I am. 1. Resilience One of my core strengths is resilience. Life is unpredictable, and I’ve faced my share of obstacles. But each time I stumble, I rise stronger. Whether it’s dealing with personal setbacks or professional challenges, my ability to bounce back has been a cornerstone of my growth. However, just because…

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back and appreciate the journey I’ve taken over the past year. Growth isn’t always a linear path; it’s filled with ups, downs, and unexpected turns. Here’s how I’ve grown this year: 1. Achievements and Milestones This year has been marked by significant achievements. I accomplished an awake surgery to restore my vocal cord from vocal cord paralysis, my fourth year teaching ESY, going to Pittsburgh with Laura and Jason, going to Virginia with Laura, filling a role for long-term substitute for life skills, surviving heartbreak from life choices…