The Truth about the Empty Nest

I have had many jobs, my favorite was being a mom.

Being a mom was my life’s work – and I did it well. My kids are happy, successful and independent, and for that, I am more than grateful.

I was barely 21 when I gave birth to our baby boy – on that day, a mother was born.

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The Day We Went to Prison – Part II


Lost Mule Lodge

… a journey that began with a cabin in the woods


This post is a continuation from Part I.

The Missouri State Penitentiary was in continuous operation for 168 years and housed thousands of inmates. A few became infamous.

In Part I, you may have felt sympathy for these prisoners living in such harsh conditions. Especially the bathing.  

The flip side is to remember the victims and the prior circumstances of a few infamous inmates.

To borrow a line from Dr. Phil, “No matter how flat you make a pancake there are always two sides”.

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The Day We Went to Prison – Part I


Lost Mule Lodge

… a journey that began with a cabin in the woods


I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our anniversary than to surprise my husband with a visit to a prison…

You know – to prove to him that life could be worse!

The Missouri State Penitentiary has earned the nickname, “The Bloodiest 47 Acres in America”.

What we saw that day will be forever seared into our hearts and minds.

Typically, I try to keep this blog uplifting, I want you to feel happy when you read it.

I will warn you, there is nothing uplifting or happy in what I am about to share.

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Are You an Old Soul or a Young Soul?


Lost Mule Lodge

… a journey that began with a cabin in the woods


We all have a soul and each is unique. Our soul is the essence of who we are.

There are the older souls, the ones we hope our kids hang out with.  They are the “guardians” of the group. The ones who say, “You know you could get arrested for climbing that water tower.”

Then there are the younger souls, the thrill seekers.  Those souls that are always taking the dare.  The ones who are living life in the fast lane.  The “fun” people. The ones on top of the water tower.

With a can of green spray paint.

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