Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Families.
Generational Forgiveness
My mother pulled me out of May Day 1963 games in elementary school that early afternoon because she was packed and leaving my father. We were headed for a long ride on the Greyhound Bus from Shreveport, Louisiana. It was the first I heard of this change to our lives. I did not have time to think or to feel. I just had time to get on the bus and go. It shouldn't have come as a surprise. I had seen her crying. I had heard the fights between them. But I hadn't seen this coming.
By Shirley Belk6 years ago in Families
I just called to say I love you
I grew up in the 1980s in a small town with a population of around 200 people, mostly farming communities. The Mallee landscape was harsh but beautiful. Springtime would line the scrub with wildflowers of all colours, the trees would flower vibrant colours and it was beautiful. I would spend my days out there with my brother, who was also my best friend. We didn't like being at home as my dad was a violent alcoholic who hurt us and our Mum. As soon as he would knock off work at the railways, he would head to the pub, using most of our families income on booze and then come home later in the night ready to fight. My brother and I witnessed things we shouldn't have and experienced things that shouldn't happen to little kids.
By sheree impossible6 years ago in Families
10 Nigerian Celebrities Who Are Mothers Without Marriage (Photos).
First came child, then came marriage. At least, that was the case for these celebrities, many of whom till this moment are still unmarried. But you know what? There’s no rush. As a society there is supposed to be an order in which everybody lives their life: love, marriage, children.
By Jide Okonjo6 years ago in Families
A Tattoo For My Grandmother
When I was 8 years old, I painted a set of Matryoshka Dolls for my grandmother. I don't know how or why I ended up with them in the first place, but I decided I wanted to paint them for my grandmother. As you can see from the picture, they were painted as well as you would expect for an 8-year-old with no artistic inclination. But she loved them. They were so special to her, and they always took pride of place on her mantelpiece in her living room.
By Jemma O'Donovan6 years ago in Families
Christmas Celebrations During Pandemic
The current pandemic situation has created a sombre and depression atmosphere, no thanks to the grim news that one reads daily on the number of infected cases and deaths, social isolation and physical distancing. Such atmosphere has made some skip or postpone family celebrations. Such celebrations include birthday, anniversaries, and holiday related celebrations such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
By Victoria Marc6 years ago in Families
My Niece (So Proud)
I'm just gonna tell you...this girl, right here, has it all going for her. I'm not exaggerating one little iota, either. Just look at her. She's gorgeous. Look deeper and you will see just how sweet, humble, and smart she is, too. She's also a real life go-getter, highly competitive, and focused in academics, sports, and, of course, her diet and health. She posts her videos so others can "build a better you with me." She amazes me. I am her biggest fan. I think she has about 45 followers on her You Tube site as of date, but I expect that to grow exponentially. I believe in her teaching, her tips, and I just love her sense of humor. I know you will, to.
By Shirley Belk6 years ago in Families
Tattoos. Top Story - September 2020.
Do you remember in elementary school, the temporary tattoos? I loved them, love them still. Cute little splashes of color used as a time filler at parties. The kids love them because they can have that little artistic expression, moms don't freak out because a bath and some scrubbing will remove all traces of that flamingo in no time. Unlike when your toddler finds red lip stick and tags everything, including their face and your new couch.
By Amber Nelson6 years ago in Families
Hold close what is dear to you
Life is a book full of lines, paragraphs and chapters. With each line is a different event, a different experience, a different part of me. There are lines that take up whole pages and chapters that explain a different part of my story. With each biography, novel, memoir, there is a beginning, a middle and an end. With each turn of the page the next fragment of a tale.
By Janine S White6 years ago in Families
