Podcasts about traumatized

It was November 22, 1963, when the President of the United States, John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Traumatized by the event, many people never questioned the incident. Since then we have been analyzing the shooting, questioning the official story and blaming the CIA for orchestrating the assassination. But is there enough evidence?Who had motive? Who may have been involved? Was the arrested shooter the lone gunman? These questions have been surfacing ever since, leading the CIA to coin the term "conspiracy theory".

Julie Lavender Le Doux is a speaker, mentor, and author of The Amazings Series kids books. Known for her innovative storytelling and compassionate heart, she helps families walk through pain with biblical truth and simple, effective steps for emotional and spiritual healing. Drawing from her homeschool journey and her family's experience with deep trauma, Julie brings a rare blend of faith, creativity, and hard-won wisdom. Recognized as "a gifted teacher with an impactful message," she guides parents and kids to trade wounds forGod's peace hope and Wonder.Follow Julie at: https://www.thequestforwonder.comNOTE: This information is for educational and investigative purposes.-------------------------Check out all of our vendors at: https://patriotswithgrit.com/patriot-partners/ SPONSORS FOR THIS VIDEO❤️ Cardio Miracle – One Drink. Endless Benefits.Feel steady energy, sharper clarity, and stronger resilience every day.Own your freedom in health & experience the full power your body was designed for.

Bridge Engineering: Part 2 Why is my mom here? Based on a post by Architect 23 94, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Connected. I awoke to the sound of Lizzie's bathroom door opening and closing, and the girls' footsteps moving around her bedroom. I laid there for a minute then reluctantly pulled myself out of bed to splash some water on my face and slip on a pair of flannel lounge pants and a t-shirt. I emerged from my bedroom and looked down in the great room to see the girls standing by the sofa looking at Stefani as she slept. Toni heard me coming down the stairs and asked, "Why is my mom here?" Lizzie followed that with the accurate but impolite assessment, "Her makeup is all smeared." Before I could say anything, Toni shook her mom's shoulder and loudly inquired, "Mom! Mom! Are you ok?!" Stefani stirred, stretched her legs under the blankets, and drowsily answered, "Yes honey, I'm fine. Mom just had a really rough night." Seemingly satisfied with that answer, Toni and Lizzie went into the pantry and started lining up cereal boxes while debating the merits of each selection. By that time, I was also downstairs and gently offered, "Good morning" to Stefani as I went about rekindling the hearth. She moaned as she sat up on the sofa and said, "I'm so embarrassed. I can't believe I came here like that last night." "I'm glad you did. I don't know what that was all about, but I was happy to know you were here and safe." She gave a muffled "Thank you." while she hung her head and cradled it in her hands, then mumbled to herself, "I can't believe I thought he would be any different." Toni must have had one ear tuned into our conversation and interjected in an annoyed tone of voice, "Is this about a man?" Lizzie looked at Toni, then at me and matter-of-factly said, "She should go sit on the bridge." It was an unquestionable truth in Lizzie's mind that time sitting on the bridge would fix whatever was bothering Toni's mom. I smiled and said, "Lizzie, I think that is a great idea." She puffed her chest proudly and went about pouring a bowl of cereal. I finished adding logs to the fire and suggested to Stefani, "There's a half-bath by the kitchen, or you're welcome to use my bathroom upstairs if you would like a shower. I'll pull together some fresh clothes for you. When you are ready, I think we should go for a walk;” then in a slightly louder voice added, "away from little eavesdroppers." "You really wouldn't mind if I took a shower?" "Not at all. I'll get you some towels and toiletries." The corners of her mouth turned upward in a small smile of gratitude and, for the first time that morning, Stefani looked me directly in the eyes and offered a very heart-felt, "Thank you." She stood up, pulled the hem of her dress down, and followed me up the stairs in her black legging covered feet. At the top of the stairs, I reached in the linen closet and handed her a stack of two bath towels, a hand towel, and a washcloth. My hands then sorted through some of the miscellaneous toiletries stored in the same closet and added a toothbrush, toothpaste, and stick of pre-teen girly deodorant. I apologized as I set the brightly patterned container on top of the towels, "Sorry, you're stuck with this unless you want to use men's deodorant." Returning to our inventory of toiletries, I started checking labels on bottles of Lizzie's 2-in-1 bodywash and shampoo, "Ok, looks like your choices are strawberry, cotton candy, or bubble gum." She chuckled and said, "I think I'll go with strawberry." "Good call." We proceeded into my bedroom where I motioned her toward the ensuite bathroom and said, "Make yourself at home and use whatever you need in there. I'm pretty sure the door locks. To be honest, I've never used it." She surveyed the bedroom and its contents on her way to the bathroom and I walked the opposite direction toward my walk-in closet. "I'll find some clothes while you are in the shower and set them on the corner of the bed." She softly said, "Thank you." while walking into the bathroom and shutting the door behind her. I proceeded to rummage through my closet looking for things that might work. I knew my clothes made for a 6'-3" tall man wouldn't fit her properly, but they were the only option available. My hands methodically moved across the wall rack, sliding each hanger a bit so I could examine the respective article. After a few minutes, I heard the sounds of Stefani turning on the shower, opening the glass shower door, and then water sporadically splashing against the tile and glass enclosure. My mind came to the awareness that there was a completely naked woman in my shower, just on the other side of the door. I couldn't help but think of how her intimate features must look as the steaming spray trickled down her body. Realizing I was standing there inappropriately fantasizing about a woman in a questionable emotional condition, I snapped myself out of it and continued thumbing through hangers to arrive at a pair of heavy flannel lounge pants. They were a much too small Christmas gift from years past, but I figured they would work for Stefani if she rolled the pant legs up a little. A t-shirt and sweatshirt seemed like the obvious choices for her upper half given a lot of women like relaxing in oversized men's clothes anyway. Organizing my selections, I noticed there weren't any undergarments and shrugged it off thinking she would just have to re-use what she had on, or go commando, but then had a last-second thought to grab a pair of boxer shorts. I folded everything neatly, set the items in a pyramiding stack on the corner of the bed, and closed the bedroom door behind me on the way out. About 30-minutes later, the girls were in Lizzie's room and I was sitting in the great room when Stefani padded down the stairs in bare feet wearing the lounge pants and the oversized t-shirt that was slightly moist around the collar from her damp curls. The t-shirt clung a little to her moist torso and gave evidence of her unrestrained tits jiggling under the fabric. She smiled as she reached the main floor and softly said, "Thank you. I really needed that." "You're welcome. Are you hungry?" "Not really, my stomach is still turning a little from last night." she said as she sat next to me on the sofa and folded her legs beneath her. "I'm so sorry for the drama. I wasn't thinking clearly and I'm thoroughly embarrassed I showed up here like that." "Please don't be. Like I said earlier, I'm just happy to know you're safe. You seemed pretty traumatized." Stefani replied, "Traumatized is probably a little strong." before seemingly pausing to consider if she wanted to offer any more information. She exhaled loudly and hesitantly continued, "I've had some; let's call them; rocky roads in my personal life, and last night was just the latest example." I sympathetically offered, "I'm sorry." She shrugged her shoulders and introspectively recapped, "I've worked with him for several years and thought he was a nice guy; and he was until he started drinking. Dinner was enjoyable, but by the time we all got to the dance club he was pretty buzzed and started getting handsy. When I rebuffed his advances, he got belligerent and more forceful." Stefani's eyes were beginning to swell as she recounted the previous evening's events in her head. My own head was filled with questions and concerns, but I sensed she had more to say and didn't want to hinder her in getting it out. "Thankfully, my coworkers saw what was happening and interceded. He took off and that was the end of it." She paused for a moment then tearily continued, "It's not just him. Last night wasn't the first time something like this happened. I seem to be a magnet for jerks and losers. At least this one wasn't married; that I know of." "I'm sorry." She quietly repeated to herself something she had said the previous night, "Why can't I escape it?" I couldn't hold back my curiosity, "You said that last night too. What do you mean you can't escape 'it'?" She answered coldly through her tears, "Alcohol," before pausing for a few quick moments to gather herself and continuing, "It ruined my marriage. It robbed Toni of a father. It turned my coworker into a creep last night. Etc, etc;” I took her hand in mine and said, "I'm sorry. I understand." She abruptly pulled her hand from mine and argued, "I appreciate your compassion, but please don't say you understand." I stood up and said, "I think we should go for a walk outside." I didn't really give her an opportunity to say no and walked to the mudroom to get a jacket. I put mine on, then handed one to Stefani as she followed me. We both slipped on a pair of my fleece lined muck boots. The boots and jacket were both too large for her, but they would suffice. I shouted to the girls that Stefani and I were going on a walk, then we stepped outside. As we strolled away from the house and into the woods, I inquired, "Please tell me about your ex-husband." "Well, we met in college and he was wonderful. I thought he was everything I wanted in life. His drinking wasn't an issue then. I mean we both went to the typical college parties and had too much to drink, but it wasn't a problem. We married the summer after we graduated and started a typical newlywed life." Our boots crunched through fall leaves on the forest floor as Stefani continued, "After we were married, he occasionally went out with friends or old college buddies and came home drunk. Again, it wasn't frequent and wasn't anything concerning." We reached Lizzie's bridge and both sat on the edge dangling our feet over the water below. "Over time, and after Toni came along, his occasional nights out evolved into several times a week and he became defensive whenever I would say anything about it. Eventually, alcoholism; let's call it what it was; completely overtook him. It wasn't just going out with friends anymore. He always had a drink in his hand. Commitments were meaningless to him and he would show up hours late, if at all. Toni's birthday parties, family holidays, dates with me; it didn't matter." "By the time Toni was three, he lost his job, which only gave him an excuse to be drunk all day. I constantly begged him to get help, but that would only agitate him and cause a fight. That continued for about a year until his agitation turned into physical abuse. That was my breaking point and I told him I wanted a divorce." Stefani was now talking through streaming tears and I took her hand in mine as a show of support. "The night I told him, he went out to the bar and never came back. After a couple weeks, I realized he was never coming back and I hired a divorce attorney who, in turn, hired a private investigator to track him down. It took a few months, but they eventually found him in Key West where he could find work as a day laborer on fishing charters and beg enough money and free drinks from tourists to get by. He demanded a healthy ransom to sign the divorce papers but, at that point, I would have paid anything." With that, she fell silent and leaned to rest her head on my shoulder. We sat quietly listening to the gentle breeze in the trees, punctuated occasionally by Stefani's sniffles. After a few minutes of building courage, I sighed and started talking, "I think I told you that Lizzie and I lived in Indiana before moving here, right?" Stefani answered softly with her head still on my shoulder, "Yes." "Well, I grew up there, in a very small town in the southern part of the state. When I was younger, my dad was a functional alcoholic. He was the best heavy equipment mechanic in the area and ran a very successful business, but came home and drank himself to blackout every night." Stefani raised her head to look at me as I continued talking, "He wasn't an angry or abusive drunk, and was never drunk in public. He was just basically an absent parent. He worked all day then came home, sat in front of the television and drank until he passed out." "My mom did everything for us and held the family together until she got sick when I was in 8th grade. The ovarian cancer had already metastasized throughout her abdomen when she was diagnosed, and she was gone a few months later." My hand had held Stefani's while she was talking and now she reciprocated by interlacing her slender fingers with mine. "Even though he didn't show it, my dad loved her deeply and her death sent him into a tailspin. He turned into a full-time drunk and lost everything; the business, the house, the cars. There were many mornings that I would wake up for school and find him passed out in the living room or, worse yet, already starting the new day with a drink in his hand. When I was in high school, it was common for me to get a call from the Sheriff saying he was drunk or passed out somewhere around town. The Sheriff was a family friend and just called me to come get him rather than arresting him. Looking back on it, he was just an enabler by letting him go." Stefani squeezed my hand in hers as I spoke, "I worked odd jobs around town and managed to earn enough money for my dad and I to survive in a tiny apartment above the hardware store. Between poverty status and my good school grades, I managed to get a full scholarship at IU in Bloomington." "I was concerned about how my dad would take me leaving for school, but it turned out I didn't need to worry. His only question was if I would have a job and keep paying the bills. I did and continued doing so even after Julie and I were married." Stefani leaned against me as we sat on the bridge and offered, "I'm sorry for what I said earlier. You do understand." "Yes, unfortunately I do." She cautiously probed further, "If I may ask, is your dad still around?" I had repressed this part of my past for years and wasn't sure I wanted to dredge up those memories. My head hung and watched the bubbling water below. After several minutes without a response, Stefani squeezed my hand and prompted, "David?" "He's in prison." She dug deeper when she realized I wasn't going to elaborate on my own, "Why?" I continued looking into the moving water and softly said, "Julie and Lizzie were hit by a drunk driver." It took a second to register in her mind, "Oh my God, it was him." "Yes." She took her hand from mine and, instead, wrapped both arms around me in a sympathetic and understanding hug. We sat in each other's arms for quite some time before I said, "We should probably go back inside and see what the girls are doing." Stefani agreed and we slowly made our way back through the woods toward the house. As we walked, I said, "Lizzie doesn't know any of that stuff about her grandfather. I'll tell her someday, but probably not anytime soon." "I understand. Toni was young enough that she doesn't remember her dad and didn't know why he left. I avoided the topic for a long time, but eventually I had to tell her." "Lizzie knows that she and Julie were in a car accident. She just doesn't know the part about my dad." Stefani stopped walking and pulled on my arm for me to stop with her. She pulled me into an embrace and said, "Thank you." I returned her hug, then kept one arm around her back as we finished walking to the house. Stefani, Toni, Lizzie and I spent most of the afternoon playing board games by the fireplace and enjoying the time together. As we did, I found myself becoming attracted to Stefani, both mentally and physically. The cold, guarded person I knew faded away and a new sunny, alluring personality emerged as she smiled and laughed. I stole glances while she wasn't looking, enjoying the simple way she sat with one leg folded beneath her and the other pulled up so she could rest her chin on her knee, the way she twisted curls of hair in her slender fingers when she thought, the way her neatly-painted toes flexed when she reached for the board game pieces, and the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed. Later in the evening, Stefani and I collaborated on preparation of an impromptu taco dinner, before we all said our goodbyes. Still in my borrowed clothes as they left, Stefani gave me one more hug and whispered in my ear, "Thank you again for taking me in." before giving me a soft kiss on the cheek. Uniting. Play dates continued frequently for Lizzie and Toni over the following weeks, both at Stefani's house and at mine. However, unlike before, Stefani would invite me to stay and I would do the same when at my house. Sometimes we would simply sit quietly in each other's company working on our laptops. Other times we would chat casually about a wide range of topics, getting to know each other and exploring our commonalities and differences. During one of those discussions, we found ourselves talking about balancing life demands as a single parent; children, work, cooking, cleaning, etc., and how it left very little time for personal interests and pursuits. I joked, "Ha, sharing the work is definitely a strong argument for having a partner!" Stefani looked at me and very seriously asked, "Have you dated since Julie passed?" "I've been on a few dates, but I wouldn't say I've dated. A couple years after we moved here, some of my friends started trying to set me up with people. The ladies were nice enough, but I wasn't ready yet and it just didn't feel right. After a few dates, I decided it was best to just decline their attempts" She probed further, "How long ago was that?" "The last one was maybe 4 years ago." I answered before returning the question, "How about you? Have you dated?" She groaned, "Hmm, my dating history isn't any better than what happened with that guy from my office. I've met a few guys, but they've all turned out to be jerks. I tell you, I'm a magnet for them. One guy that I really liked and went out with for about a month, turned out to be married. The others weren't that much different than the guy from work, and it became obvious on the first dates that they were only looking for sex, not a relationship." "I'm sorry." Neither one of us said anything more on the topic and we moved on to other subjects, but there was an unspoken understanding that we were both exploring the other person's openness to a relationship. Friendsgiving. The week after Thanksgiving, Stefani and I sat on stools at my kitchen island tapping away on our laptop keyboards while Toni and Lizzie played upstairs. I was answering emails, and Stefani was filling out what looked to be a very complicated accounting spreadsheet on her screen. After an hour or so, Stefani sighed and announced, "I need a break from these numbers." She extended her arms straight above her head and arched her back as she stretched. The motion served to thrust her tits outward, stretching the fabric of her thin button-up blouse and revealing the intricate texture of a lace bra beneath. It also caused the bottom of the untucked blouse to rise upward, exposing a flat, toned midriff and cute belly button. Having been caught looking, she just smiled knowingly and asked "How was your Thanksgiving?" "It was good. Lizzie and I went over to George and Linda's house for a 'Friendsgiving'. There were about ten people there, plus a few kids. We stayed for most of the day, then came home and roasted some marshmallows in the fireplace. How was yours?" "It was stereotypical," she replied as she continued in a mock monotonous tone, "We went to my parents' house, ate dinner, and all the men fell asleep watching football while my mom and sisters harassed me to find a husband. You know, all the usual things." I said sarcastically, "Sounds delightful." then asked seriously, "I take it that is a topic of conversation at every family gathering?" "Yes, they think they are being funny about it, joking about how they should set me up with this guy or that guy, but it gets annoying really fast. Especially since I know they really aren't joking. At least I won't have to hear it at Christmas. My parents decided to go on a Caribbean cruise over the holidays, so my sisters are all going to their husbands' sides of their families." I processed that for a few seconds, then asked, "Have you made any other plans? Would you and Toni like to spend Christmas here with us?" Stefani sincerely replied, "I would love that. I know Toni will too." We went on to plan out the details and decided that Stefani would bring their gifts over on Christmas Eve so she didn't have to transport them Christmas morning. That discussion evolved into Stefani bringing some of her family's traditional Italian dishes for dinner, then further into a more formal Christmas Eve dining event. She thought it would be fun for the girls, and I certainly didn't object to the idea of seeing Stefani in a nice dress. Holidays. On the Saturday two weeks before Christmas, Lizzie and I went to the local Rotary Club tree sale. Lizzie carefully inspected every tree on the lot before running back to one of the first trees near the entrance and declaring, "This is it! This is the perfect tree!" The Frazier Fir was a little big and a little expensive for my preference, but I acquiesced and paid the man standing next to me with a perceptive grin on his face. After strapping the tree on top of my Jeep, we climbed in and I asked Lizzie, "Should we see if Toni wants to come help decorate it?" Lizzie bounced in her seat and squealed, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" I pulled my phone out of my pocket and texted Stefani, "Just bought tree. U2 want to decorate tonight?" She replied back almost immediately, "Yes, I'll bring chili." When we got home, I untied the tree in the gravel driveway and did my best to shake out any loose needles. Before taking it in the house, Lizzie and I decided on a location off to the side of the great room fireplace and shifted furniture around to accommodate the tree. I then dug the tree stand and some boxes of decorations out of the basement. After all the preparations were made, I brought the tree inside. Lizzie steadied the empty stand while I placed the base of the tree and held it upright while Lizzie tightened the stand's handscrews to secure it in place. With it tightened as much as Lizzie's little fingers could muster, I crawled under the tree and made little adjustments while Lizzie gave me left or right straightening instructions. When she was satisfied, I gave each of the handscrews a final tightening. We stood together admiring our work and congratulated each other on the job well done before she went get a container of water for the tree. I spent the next couple hours on household tasks that I hadn't accomplished during the week, then decided to get cleaned up a little before Stefani and Toni arrived. I washed up, applied some fresh deodorant and cologne, then changed into a pair of casual khakis and an ugly but festive Christmas sweater. Decorating. Stefani and Toni arrived soon after I changed. Stefani carrying a crockpot of chili and Toni carrying a bag full of accompaniments. Lizzie and I greeted them at the door and unloaded their hands as they shed their coats and shoes. Stefani laughed at my sweater as she slid her coat off her shoulders, "Seriously?" I feigned ignorance and replied sarcastically, "What?!" With coats hung up and the crock pot plugged in, the four of us found our way over to the unadorned tree and began discussing how to decorate it. I opened the box containing light strands and said, "We have some multi-color lights and some white lights, which should we use ladies?" The two girls discussed it for a moment then answered in unison, "All of them!" I chuckled and started untangling the light strands and stringing them around the tree as Stefani and the girls explored the other boxes of decorations I had brought up from the basement. I couldn't help but admire Stefani as she picked through the boxes and watched me wrap lights around the tree. She was wearing a loose-fitting cream color corded sweater, black leggings, and cream color fuzzy socks that matched her sweater. I'm sure she intended it as a comfortable lounging outfit, but it complimented her long, toned body very well. I finished the last strand of lights and took a seat on the sofa while Toni and Lizzie continued unwrapping ornaments and laying them out on the floor. Stefani had found a tree skirt in one of the boxes and asked, "Should I put it on?" I answered, "Sure. There should be another one somewhere in the boxes if you want to see it, but I think the one you have is the best." She said, "This one is nice." then crawled over to the tree. She unfolded the skirt and reached under the tree while on her hands and knees to pull it around the trunk. Gravity slid the bottom of her oversize sweater above her hips and a few inches up her back as she leaned and stretched to adjust the skirt, presenting a wonderful view of her perfect heart-shaped rear. My gaze was fixed on the sensual, womanly curves that were only slightly veiled by the form-fitting legging fabric. Stefani pulled the skirt edges outward and tried her best to smooth any wrinkles before asking, "How does that look?" Still staring at her ass, I rallied courage to suggestively answer, "It looks incredible." Curious about the overly enthusiastic response, Stefani looked back over her shoulder and saw me looking at her rear, not the tree skirt. She smiled mischievously, subtly wiggled her ass, then spent a couple more minutes unnecessarily straightening imaginary wrinkles in the skirt. The girls were unaware of the adult exchanges and Lizzie innocently asked, "Can we start putting ornaments on now?" I came back to reality and answered, "Sure, go for it!" as Stefani moved to sit next to me on the sofa. The girls formulated a plan for shorter Lizzie to decorate the bottom of the tree, taller Toni to hang ornaments on the middle section, and Stefani and me to get whatever they couldn't reach. Stefani nestled against my side as we watched the girls make trips back and forth between selecting ornaments laid on the floor and choosing the perfect location for each on the tree. Their happiness being together and sharing in the festive atmosphere was infectious, and I sat there feeling emotions I hadn't felt in a very long time. It was very comfortable to have Toni and Stefani there with us. It just felt right. With those thoughts swirling in my head, my hand reached to find Stefani's and our fingers intuitively interlaced. My heart swelled as Stefani snuggled further into me. When the girls had their portions of the tree sufficiently loaded, Stefani and I finished decorating the upper portion and I added the crowning star. We all stood back to admire our work and I flipped the switch for the grand lighting finale. The girls cheered with delight while Stefani and I each put an arm around the other's back and shared a side-hug while appreciating the tree. After sharing a few moments, Stefani moved on to serve dinner while I cleaned up the empty decoration boxes. We all shared conversation over the meal at the dining room table, then played some after-dinner card games. I felt a pang of emptiness when it was time for Stefani and Toni to leave, and really didn't want them to go. That evening I felt a sense of family that I hadn't felt since Julie died. I didn't want to scare Stefani with the heaviness of my thoughts, and understatedly said, "I really enjoyed spending the day with you. I hope we can all spend more evenings like this together." Stefani wasn't as subtle. As they were putting their coats on and heading out the door, she gave me a goodbye hug with the girls looking on, and whispered in my ear, "I didn't see mistletoe hung anywhere. You should get some." Holiday Break. The week before Christmas was a whirlwind, filled with school holiday activities, Christmas shopping, and end-of-the-year accounting for my business. There wasn't time for play dates, but we did all see each other at the school holiday play and concert. Both girls had parts in the play, Toni as an ice skater and Lizzie tending a chestnut roasting cart. Stefani and I found each other in the crowd of parents entering the auditorium and enjoyed the show side-by-side. I didn't know how she felt about the two of us being friendly in public, so I sat next to her playing the part of a plutonic acquaintance. It was Stefani who reached over and placed her hand on the top of my thigh, which I covered with mine and gave a squeeze of affection. We all went to the downtown sweet shop after the concert where the girls both ate mountainous ice cream sundaes while Stefani and I sipped on decaf coffee. We shared another goodbye hug when we parted ways at the end of the evening. This time it was my turn to whisper in Stefani's ear, "We need to find some time alone." She inhaled sharply and shuddered a little when I discreetly placed a kiss just under her ear. The Big Event. On the morning of Christmas Eve, Lizzie and I made some final preparations for the big event, including retrieval of a formal set of china and crystal stemware packed away in the basement. We washed all the china and stemware before turning our attention to the table by spreading a white linen tablecloth, arranging the china and crystal place settings, and creating a centerpiece with some fir boughs and velvet ribbon. The crowning element was a forest of candles randomly spaced along the center of the table. After finishing, I steered Lizzie up to her room to change clothes before doing a quick final clean of the kitchen and great room, then heading upstairs to freshen up and change. I opted for a slightly casual look with a sport coat and open collar button-down shirt. Lizzie went for an all-out, over-the-top look in a way only a third-grade girl can, with a long lace dress, heels, and an abundance of costume jewelry. I heard gravel crunching under tires as I was complimenting Lizzie on her dress and looked out the window to see Stefani and Toni's car coming to a stop outside. Lizzie and I greeted them at the door. Lizzie with squeals of excitement for Toni, and me with a hug for Stefani. With a long overcoat still on, Stefani said, "Presents and dinner are in the trunk of my car. Would you mind?" "Of course not." I didn't bother putting on a coat and swiftly walked out to retrieve hot trays of food covered in aluminum foil and packed in boxes. Toni held the door open upon my return to the house and I complimented her attire, which was on par with Lizzie's style for the evening. I entered to see Stefani standing in the kitchen wearing a floor-length, deep burgundy satin evening gown. The off-the-shoulder cut drew attention to her lithe neck and sensually exposed collar bones and shoulders, while the deep-V bust line and her pendant necklace pointed directly to the shallow valley between her modest tits. The torso of the dress was neatly fitted to her narrow waist then flared outward over her hips into the pleated A-line gown. It was the perfect dress for her body and she looked absolutely amazing. My admiration grew even more when she shifted position to purposefully reveal a long, toned leg through the full length slit in the side. "You look incredible!" I praised while placing the boxes of food on the kitchen island and making a show of looking at her from head to toe. She feigned a shy, "Aww, thank you." and humbly said, "I wear it once a year for the company holiday party." I turned to make another trip to her car and on the way out the door, I replied, "You should wear it more often. You make that dress look really good." I made several trips schlepping boxes of food and Christmas presents. When I returned and put the last couple boxes on the kitchen counter, Stefani had begun unpacking an assortment of homemade Italian dishes, including chicken piccata, fettucine with clam sauce, an antipasto salad, and an assortment of other side dishes. I exclaimed, "Wow, this looks and smells fantastic!" as I moved to steal a small clam off the top of the fettucine. She swatted my hand and playfully disciplined, "You need to wait, mister!" The girls tasked themselves with lighting the numerous candles on the table as I dimmed the house lights. Meanwhile, Stefani finished plating the last few items and carried them to the table. We dined by the soft glow of candlelight talking about good memories of Christmas, with Stefani and I temporarily ignoring the painful ones from our respective pasts. At one point, as the girls were consumed with a conversation of their own, Stefani commented, "This china is beautiful. You have good tastes." I didn't want to kill the mood, but I also wanted to be honest. "Julie picked it out for our wedding registry. She had an eye for the finer things in life." "Oh my gosh, I'm so, so sorry! I should have known!" "Please, it's okay. I wouldn't have used it if I wasn't ready to talk about it. I figured it was time to dust it off for a special occasion." She meekly asked, "Is this the first time you've used it since?" "Yes." Her beautiful blue eyes looked warmly into mine as her long slender fingers mindlessly twirled a lock of hair above her right ear. She spoke with layers of meaning, "I'm understanding more and more that Julie knew how to choose the finer things." We shared an extended gaze across the table that was only interrupted by Toni asking, "Can we have dessert now?" Stefani and I chuckled and she answered, "Yes, you may." before standing up to clear the table of dirty plates. I offered in my best butler voice, "I will service the table, madam, if you would like to prepare the next course for the Ladies of the Court." The girls thought that was hilarious and started practicing their own stuffy accents, which only intensified as consequences of the sugary tiramisu and cannoli took hold. When we had all finished, I announced in my Lordship voice, "Thank you Ladies, the food was remarkable and so was the company. Shall we retire to the parlor for after-dinner amusements?" The girls looked confused, so Stefani clarified, "He means games." after which they scrambled out of their chairs to explore the cabinet housing our selection of card and board games. Stefani and I cleared the table and generally tidied up the kitchen while the girls debated which games to play. We worked efficiently as a team, sharing a lot of unnecessary and 'accidental' touches as we moved about. The girls finished their game selections and we played several games of 'Chutes 'N Ladders' before moving on to 'Sorry' and, finally, a very long game of 'Monopoly' in which they eventually lost interest and asked if they could go watch a movie in the basement. Stefani started to object, "It's getting late. We should probably be going." before I gestured for the girls to go on downstairs. They didn't wait for Stefani's response and took off down the stairs. She looked at me quizzically as I stood up and motioned for her to follow me. We trailed the girls down the stairs where Stefani silently absorbed what was before her. I had set up two twin beds in front of the downstairs television and created a makeshift tent out of some decorative tree branches, tulle fabric, and twinkle lights. It was a perfect sleepover paradise for two third-grade girls. I put my arm around Stefani and whispered in her ear, "You're right, it is getting late. Maybe you should just spend the night." She put her arm around my back and whispered back, "Umm; sounds nice, but;” as she nodded toward the girls. I responded not to her, but to Lizzie and Toni who were sitting on one of the beds scrolling through movie options on the DVR. "Girls?" When they both raised their heads to look at me, I announced, "We've decided to let you have a sleepover tonight so that we can all be here together for Christmas morning;” They cheered and hugged each other before I continued, "; but there are a couple rules; first, you can watch a movie, then you need to get ready for bed in the bathroom down here and go right to sleep. The pink gift bags on your beds are special Christmas Eve sleepover kits with pajamas, toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a few other things." Lizzie and Toni scurried to check out the gift bags, but I interceded, "Wait a minute; the second rule is that you can't come upstairs until 7:00 tomorrow morning;” I said motioning to Stefani and I, "; we need a decent night's sleep. Do you both agree to the rules?" They eagerly shouted in unison, "Yes, Yes, Yes!" "Ok, we'll see you on Christmas morning!" Before we could turn to leave, Toni asked, "Mom, where will you sleep?" I anticipated the question and interceded with a little white lie, "She'll sleep in my bed. I'm going to sleep on the great room sofa so I can make sure you two don't try to sneak upstairs to look at the presents." Seemingly satisfied with that answer, Toni simply said, "Okay, goodnight mom." To be continued in part 3. Based on a post by Architect 23 94, in 3 parts, for Literotica.

Bridge Engineering: Part 2 Why is my mom here? Based on a post by Architect 23 94, in 3 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Connected. I awoke to the sound of Lizzie's bathroom door opening and closing, and the girls' footsteps moving around her bedroom. I laid there for a minute then reluctantly pulled myself out of bed to splash some water on my face and slip on a pair of flannel lounge pants and a t-shirt. I emerged from my bedroom and looked down in the great room to see the girls standing by the sofa looking at Stefani as she slept. Toni heard me coming down the stairs and asked, "Why is my mom here?" Lizzie followed that with the accurate but impolite assessment, "Her makeup is all smeared." Before I could say anything, Toni shook her mom's shoulder and loudly inquired, "Mom! Mom! Are you ok?!" Stefani stirred, stretched her legs under the blankets, and drowsily answered, "Yes honey, I'm fine. Mom just had a really rough night." Seemingly satisfied with that answer, Toni and Lizzie went into the pantry and started lining up cereal boxes while debating the merits of each selection. By that time, I was also downstairs and gently offered, "Good morning" to Stefani as I went about rekindling the hearth. She moaned as she sat up on the sofa and said, "I'm so embarrassed. I can't believe I came here like that last night." "I'm glad you did. I don't know what that was all about, but I was happy to know you were here and safe." She gave a muffled "Thank you." while she hung her head and cradled it in her hands, then mumbled to herself, "I can't believe I thought he would be any different." Toni must have had one ear tuned into our conversation and interjected in an annoyed tone of voice, "Is this about a man?" Lizzie looked at Toni, then at me and matter-of-factly said, "She should go sit on the bridge." It was an unquestionable truth in Lizzie's mind that time sitting on the bridge would fix whatever was bothering Toni's mom. I smiled and said, "Lizzie, I think that is a great idea." She puffed her chest proudly and went about pouring a bowl of cereal. I finished adding logs to the fire and suggested to Stefani, "There's a half-bath by the kitchen, or you're welcome to use my bathroom upstairs if you would like a shower. I'll pull together some fresh clothes for you. When you are ready, I think we should go for a walk;” then in a slightly louder voice added, "away from little eavesdroppers." "You really wouldn't mind if I took a shower?" "Not at all. I'll get you some towels and toiletries." The corners of her mouth turned upward in a small smile of gratitude and, for the first time that morning, Stefani looked me directly in the eyes and offered a very heart-felt, "Thank you." She stood up, pulled the hem of her dress down, and followed me up the stairs in her black legging covered feet. At the top of the stairs, I reached in the linen closet and handed her a stack of two bath towels, a hand towel, and a washcloth. My hands then sorted through some of the miscellaneous toiletries stored in the same closet and added a toothbrush, toothpaste, and stick of pre-teen girly deodorant. I apologized as I set the brightly patterned container on top of the towels, "Sorry, you're stuck with this unless you want to use men's deodorant." Returning to our inventory of toiletries, I started checking labels on bottles of Lizzie's 2-in-1 bodywash and shampoo, "Ok, looks like your choices are strawberry, cotton candy, or bubble gum." She chuckled and said, "I think I'll go with strawberry." "Good call." We proceeded into my bedroom where I motioned her toward the ensuite bathroom and said, "Make yourself at home and use whatever you need in there. I'm pretty sure the door locks. To be honest, I've never used it." She surveyed the bedroom and its contents on her way to the bathroom and I walked the opposite direction toward my walk-in closet. "I'll find some clothes while you are in the shower and set them on the corner of the bed." She softly said, "Thank you." while walking into the bathroom and shutting the door behind her. I proceeded to rummage through my closet looking for things that might work. I knew my clothes made for a 6'-3" tall man wouldn't fit her properly, but they were the only option available. My hands methodically moved across the wall rack, sliding each hanger a bit so I could examine the respective article. After a few minutes, I heard the sounds of Stefani turning on the shower, opening the glass shower door, and then water sporadically splashing against the tile and glass enclosure. My mind came to the awareness that there was a completely naked woman in my shower, just on the other side of the door. I couldn't help but think of how her intimate features must look as the steaming spray trickled down her body. Realizing I was standing there inappropriately fantasizing about a woman in a questionable emotional condition, I snapped myself out of it and continued thumbing through hangers to arrive at a pair of heavy flannel lounge pants. They were a much too small Christmas gift from years past, but I figured they would work for Stefani if she rolled the pant legs up a little. A t-shirt and sweatshirt seemed like the obvious choices for her upper half given a lot of women like relaxing in oversized men's clothes anyway. Organizing my selections, I noticed there weren't any undergarments and shrugged it off thinking she would just have to re-use what she had on, or go commando, but then had a last-second thought to grab a pair of boxer shorts. I folded everything neatly, set the items in a pyramiding stack on the corner of the bed, and closed the bedroom door behind me on the way out. About 30-minutes later, the girls were in Lizzie's room and I was sitting in the great room when Stefani padded down the stairs in bare feet wearing the lounge pants and the oversized t-shirt that was slightly moist around the collar from her damp curls. The t-shirt clung a little to her moist torso and gave evidence of her unrestrained tits jiggling under the fabric. She smiled as she reached the main floor and softly said, "Thank you. I really needed that." "You're welcome. Are you hungry?" "Not really, my stomach is still turning a little from last night." she said as she sat next to me on the sofa and folded her legs beneath her. "I'm so sorry for the drama. I wasn't thinking clearly and I'm thoroughly embarrassed I showed up here like that." "Please don't be. Like I said earlier, I'm just happy to know you're safe. You seemed pretty traumatized." Stefani replied, "Traumatized is probably a little strong." before seemingly pausing to consider if she wanted to offer any more information. She exhaled loudly and hesitantly continued, "I've had some; let's call them; rocky roads in my personal life, and last night was just the latest example." I sympathetically offered, "I'm sorry." She shrugged her shoulders and introspectively recapped, "I've worked with him for several years and thought he was a nice guy; and he was until he started drinking. Dinner was enjoyable, but by the time we all got to the dance club he was pretty buzzed and started getting handsy. When I rebuffed his advances, he got belligerent and more forceful." Stefani's eyes were beginning to swell as she recounted the previous evening's events in her head. My own head was filled with questions and concerns, but I sensed she had more to say and didn't want to hinder her in getting it out. "Thankfully, my coworkers saw what was happening and interceded. He took off and that was the end of it." She paused for a moment then tearily continued, "It's not just him. Last night wasn't the first time something like this happened. I seem to be a magnet for jerks and losers. At least this one wasn't married; that I know of." "I'm sorry." She quietly repeated to herself something she had said the previous night, "Why can't I escape it?" I couldn't hold back my curiosity, "You said that last night too. What do you mean you can't escape 'it'?" She answered coldly through her tears, "Alcohol," before pausing for a few quick moments to gather herself and continuing, "It ruined my marriage. It robbed Toni of a father. It turned my coworker into a creep last night. Etc, etc;” I took her hand in mine and said, "I'm sorry. I understand." She abruptly pulled her hand from mine and argued, "I appreciate your compassion, but please don't say you understand." I stood up and said, "I think we should go for a walk outside." I didn't really give her an opportunity to say no and walked to the mudroom to get a jacket. I put mine on, then handed one to Stefani as she followed me. We both slipped on a pair of my fleece lined muck boots. The boots and jacket were both too large for her, but they would suffice. I shouted to the girls that Stefani and I were going on a walk, then we stepped outside. As we strolled away from the house and into the woods, I inquired, "Please tell me about your ex-husband." "Well, we met in college and he was wonderful. I thought he was everything I wanted in life. His drinking wasn't an issue then. I mean we both went to the typical college parties and had too much to drink, but it wasn't a problem. We married the summer after we graduated and started a typical newlywed life." Our boots crunched through fall leaves on the forest floor as Stefani continued, "After we were married, he occasionally went out with friends or old college buddies and came home drunk. Again, it wasn't frequent and wasn't anything concerning." We reached Lizzie's bridge and both sat on the edge dangling our feet over the water below. "Over time, and after Toni came along, his occasional nights out evolved into several times a week and he became defensive whenever I would say anything about it. Eventually, alcoholism; let's call it what it was; completely overtook him. It wasn't just going out with friends anymore. He always had a drink in his hand. Commitments were meaningless to him and he would show up hours late, if at all. Toni's birthday parties, family holidays, dates with me; it didn't matter." "By the time Toni was three, he lost his job, which only gave him an excuse to be drunk all day. I constantly begged him to get help, but that would only agitate him and cause a fight. That continued for about a year until his agitation turned into physical abuse. That was my breaking point and I told him I wanted a divorce." Stefani was now talking through streaming tears and I took her hand in mine as a show of support. "The night I told him, he went out to the bar and never came back. After a couple weeks, I realized he was never coming back and I hired a divorce attorney who, in turn, hired a private investigator to track him down. It took a few months, but they eventually found him in Key West where he could find work as a day laborer on fishing charters and beg enough money and free drinks from tourists to get by. He demanded a healthy ransom to sign the divorce papers but, at that point, I would have paid anything." With that, she fell silent and leaned to rest her head on my shoulder. We sat quietly listening to the gentle breeze in the trees, punctuated occasionally by Stefani's sniffles. After a few minutes of building courage, I sighed and started talking, "I think I told you that Lizzie and I lived in Indiana before moving here, right?" Stefani answered softly with her head still on my shoulder, "Yes." "Well, I grew up there, in a very small town in the southern part of the state. When I was younger, my dad was a functional alcoholic. He was the best heavy equipment mechanic in the area and ran a very successful business, but came home and drank himself to blackout every night." Stefani raised her head to look at me as I continued talking, "He wasn't an angry or abusive drunk, and was never drunk in public. He was just basically an absent parent. He worked all day then came home, sat in front of the television and drank until he passed out." "My mom did everything for us and held the family together until she got sick when I was in 8th grade. The ovarian cancer had already metastasized throughout her abdomen when she was diagnosed, and she was gone a few months later." My hand had held Stefani's while she was talking and now she reciprocated by interlacing her slender fingers with mine. "Even though he didn't show it, my dad loved her deeply and her death sent him into a tailspin. He turned into a full-time drunk and lost everything; the business, the house, the cars. There were many mornings that I would wake up for school and find him passed out in the living room or, worse yet, already starting the new day with a drink in his hand. When I was in high school, it was common for me to get a call from the Sheriff saying he was drunk or passed out somewhere around town. The Sheriff was a family friend and just called me to come get him rather than arresting him. Looking back on it, he was just an enabler by letting him go." Stefani squeezed my hand in hers as I spoke, "I worked odd jobs around town and managed to earn enough money for my dad and I to survive in a tiny apartment above the hardware store. Between poverty status and my good school grades, I managed to get a full scholarship at IU in Bloomington." "I was concerned about how my dad would take me leaving for school, but it turned out I didn't need to worry. His only question was if I would have a job and keep paying the bills. I did and continued doing so even after Julie and I were married." Stefani leaned against me as we sat on the bridge and offered, "I'm sorry for what I said earlier. You do understand." "Yes, unfortunately I do." She cautiously probed further, "If I may ask, is your dad still around?" I had repressed this part of my past for years and wasn't sure I wanted to dredge up those memories. My head hung and watched the bubbling water below. After several minutes without a response, Stefani squeezed my hand and prompted, "David?" "He's in prison." She dug deeper when she realized I wasn't going to elaborate on my own, "Why?" I continued looking into the moving water and softly said, "Julie and Lizzie were hit by a drunk driver." It took a second to register in her mind, "Oh my God, it was him." "Yes." She took her hand from mine and, instead, wrapped both arms around me in a sympathetic and understanding hug. We sat in each other's arms for quite some time before I said, "We should probably go back inside and see what the girls are doing." Stefani agreed and we slowly made our way back through the woods toward the house. As we walked, I said, "Lizzie doesn't know any of that stuff about her grandfather. I'll tell her someday, but probably not anytime soon." "I understand. Toni was young enough that she doesn't remember her dad and didn't know why he left. I avoided the topic for a long time, but eventually I had to tell her." "Lizzie knows that she and Julie were in a car accident. She just doesn't know the part about my dad." Stefani stopped walking and pulled on my arm for me to stop with her. She pulled me into an embrace and said, "Thank you." I returned her hug, then kept one arm around her back as we finished walking to the house. Stefani, Toni, Lizzie and I spent most of the afternoon playing board games by the fireplace and enjoying the time together. As we did, I found myself becoming attracted to Stefani, both mentally and physically. The cold, guarded person I knew faded away and a new sunny, alluring personality emerged as she smiled and laughed. I stole glances while she wasn't looking, enjoying the simple way she sat with one leg folded beneath her and the other pulled up so she could rest her chin on her knee, the way she twisted curls of hair in her slender fingers when she thought, the way her neatly-painted toes flexed when she reached for the board game pieces, and the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed. Later in the evening, Stefani and I collaborated on preparation of an impromptu taco dinner, before we all said our goodbyes. Still in my borrowed clothes as they left, Stefani gave me one more hug and whispered in my ear, "Thank you again for taking me in." before giving me a soft kiss on the cheek. Uniting. Play dates continued frequently for Lizzie and Toni over the following weeks, both at Stefani's house and at mine. However, unlike before, Stefani would invite me to stay and I would do the same when at my house. Sometimes we would simply sit quietly in each other's company working on our laptops. Other times we would chat casually about a wide range of topics, getting to know each other and exploring our commonalities and differences. During one of those discussions, we found ourselves talking about balancing life demands as a single parent; children, work, cooking, cleaning, etc., and how it left very little time for personal interests and pursuits. I joked, "Ha, sharing the work is definitely a strong argument for having a partner!" Stefani looked at me and very seriously asked, "Have you dated since Julie passed?" "I've been on a few dates, but I wouldn't say I've dated. A couple years after we moved here, some of my friends started trying to set me up with people. The ladies were nice enough, but I wasn't ready yet and it just didn't feel right. After a few dates, I decided it was best to just decline their attempts" She probed further, "How long ago was that?" "The last one was maybe 4 years ago." I answered before returning the question, "How about you? Have you dated?" She groaned, "Hmm, my dating history isn't any better than what happened with that guy from my office. I've met a few guys, but they've all turned out to be jerks. I tell you, I'm a magnet for them. One guy that I really liked and went out with for about a month, turned out to be married. The others weren't that much different than the guy from work, and it became obvious on the first dates that they were only looking for sex, not a relationship." "I'm sorry." Neither one of us said anything more on the topic and we moved on to other subjects, but there was an unspoken understanding that we were both exploring the other person's openness to a relationship. Friendsgiving. The week after Thanksgiving, Stefani and I sat on stools at my kitchen island tapping away on our laptop keyboards while Toni and Lizzie played upstairs. I was answering emails, and Stefani was filling out what looked to be a very complicated accounting spreadsheet on her screen. After an hour or so, Stefani sighed and announced, "I need a break from these numbers." She extended her arms straight above her head and arched her back as she stretched. The motion served to thrust her tits outward, stretching the fabric of her thin button-up blouse and revealing the intricate texture of a lace bra beneath. It also caused the bottom of the untucked blouse to rise upward, exposing a flat, toned midriff and cute belly button. Having been caught looking, she just smiled knowingly and asked "How was your Thanksgiving?" "It was good. Lizzie and I went over to George and Linda's house for a 'Friendsgiving'. There were about ten people there, plus a few kids. We stayed for most of the day, then came home and roasted some marshmallows in the fireplace. How was yours?" "It was stereotypical," she replied as she continued in a mock monotonous tone, "We went to my parents' house, ate dinner, and all the men fell asleep watching football while my mom and sisters harassed me to find a husband. You know, all the usual things." I said sarcastically, "Sounds delightful." then asked seriously, "I take it that is a topic of conversation at every family gathering?" "Yes, they think they are being funny about it, joking about how they should set me up with this guy or that guy, but it gets annoying really fast. Especially since I know they really aren't joking. At least I won't have to hear it at Christmas. My parents decided to go on a Caribbean cruise over the holidays, so my sisters are all going to their husbands' sides of their families." I processed that for a few seconds, then asked, "Have you made any other plans? Would you and Toni like to spend Christmas here with us?" Stefani sincerely replied, "I would love that. I know Toni will too." We went on to plan out the details and decided that Stefani would bring their gifts over on Christmas Eve so she didn't have to transport them Christmas morning. That discussion evolved into Stefani bringing some of her family's traditional Italian dishes for dinner, then further into a more formal Christmas Eve dining event. She thought it would be fun for the girls, and I certainly didn't object to the idea of seeing Stefani in a nice dress. Holidays. On the Saturday two weeks before Christmas, Lizzie and I went to the local Rotary Club tree sale. Lizzie carefully inspected every tree on the lot before running back to one of the first trees near the entrance and declaring, "This is it! This is the perfect tree!" The Frazier Fir was a little big and a little expensive for my preference, but I acquiesced and paid the man standing next to me with a perceptive grin on his face. After strapping the tree on top of my Jeep, we climbed in and I asked Lizzie, "Should we see if Toni wants to come help decorate it?" Lizzie bounced in her seat and squealed, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" I pulled my phone out of my pocket and texted Stefani, "Just bought tree. U2 want to decorate tonight?" She replied back almost immediately, "Yes, I'll bring chili." When we got home, I untied the tree in the gravel driveway and did my best to shake out any loose needles. Before taking it in the house, Lizzie and I decided on a location off to the side of the great room fireplace and shifted furniture around to accommodate the tree. I then dug the tree stand and some boxes of decorations out of the basement. After all the preparations were made, I brought the tree inside. Lizzie steadied the empty stand while I placed the base of the tree and held it upright while Lizzie tightened the stand's handscrews to secure it in place. With it tightened as much as Lizzie's little fingers could muster, I crawled under the tree and made little adjustments while Lizzie gave me left or right straightening instructions. When she was satisfied, I gave each of the handscrews a final tightening. We stood together admiring our work and congratulated each other on the job well done before she went get a container of water for the tree. I spent the next couple hours on household tasks that I hadn't accomplished during the week, then decided to get cleaned up a little before Stefani and Toni arrived. I washed up, applied some fresh deodorant and cologne, then changed into a pair of casual khakis and an ugly but festive Christmas sweater. Decorating. Stefani and Toni arrived soon after I changed. Stefani carrying a crockpot of chili and Toni carrying a bag full of accompaniments. Lizzie and I greeted them at the door and unloaded their hands as they shed their coats and shoes. Stefani laughed at my sweater as she slid her coat off her shoulders, "Seriously?" I feigned ignorance and replied sarcastically, "What?!" With coats hung up and the crock pot plugged in, the four of us found our way over to the unadorned tree and began discussing how to decorate it. I opened the box containing light strands and said, "We have some multi-color lights and some white lights, which should we use ladies?" The two girls discussed it for a moment then answered in unison, "All of them!" I chuckled and started untangling the light strands and stringing them around the tree as Stefani and the girls explored the other boxes of decorations I had brought up from the basement. I couldn't help but admire Stefani as she picked through the boxes and watched me wrap lights around the tree. She was wearing a loose-fitting cream color corded sweater, black leggings, and cream color fuzzy socks that matched her sweater. I'm sure she intended it as a comfortable lounging outfit, but it complimented her long, toned body very well. I finished the last strand of lights and took a seat on the sofa while Toni and Lizzie continued unwrapping ornaments and laying them out on the floor. Stefani had found a tree skirt in one of the boxes and asked, "Should I put it on?" I answered, "Sure. There should be another one somewhere in the boxes if you want to see it, but I think the one you have is the best." She said, "This one is nice." then crawled over to the tree. She unfolded the skirt and reached under the tree while on her hands and knees to pull it around the trunk. Gravity slid the bottom of her oversize sweater above her hips and a few inches up her back as she leaned and stretched to adjust the skirt, presenting a wonderful view of her perfect heart-shaped rear. My gaze was fixed on the sensual, womanly curves that were only slightly veiled by the form-fitting legging fabric. Stefani pulled the skirt edges outward and tried her best to smooth any wrinkles before asking, "How does that look?" Still staring at her ass, I rallied courage to suggestively answer, "It looks incredible." Curious about the overly enthusiastic response, Stefani looked back over her shoulder and saw me looking at her rear, not the tree skirt. She smiled mischievously, subtly wiggled her ass, then spent a couple more minutes unnecessarily straightening imaginary wrinkles in the skirt. The girls were unaware of the adult exchanges and Lizzie innocently asked, "Can we start putting ornaments on now?" I came back to reality and answered, "Sure, go for it!" as Stefani moved to sit next to me on the sofa. The girls formulated a plan for shorter Lizzie to decorate the bottom of the tree, taller Toni to hang ornaments on the middle section, and Stefani and me to get whatever they couldn't reach. Stefani nestled against my side as we watched the girls make trips back and forth between selecting ornaments laid on the floor and choosing the perfect location for each on the tree. Their happiness being together and sharing in the festive atmosphere was infectious, and I sat there feeling emotions I hadn't felt in a very long time. It was very comfortable to have Toni and Stefani there with us. It just felt right. With those thoughts swirling in my head, my hand reached to find Stefani's and our fingers intuitively interlaced. My heart swelled as Stefani snuggled further into me. When the girls had their portions of the tree sufficiently loaded, Stefani and I finished decorating the upper portion and I added the crowning star. We all stood back to admire our work and I flipped the switch for the grand lighting finale. The girls cheered with delight while Stefani and I each put an arm around the other's back and shared a side-hug while appreciating the tree. After sharing a few moments, Stefani moved on to serve dinner while I cleaned up the empty decoration boxes. We all shared conversation over the meal at the dining room table, then played some after-dinner card games. I felt a pang of emptiness when it was time for Stefani and Toni to leave, and really didn't want them to go. That evening I felt a sense of family that I hadn't felt since Julie died. I didn't want to scare Stefani with the heaviness of my thoughts, and understatedly said, "I really enjoyed spending the day with you. I hope we can all spend more evenings like this together." Stefani wasn't as subtle. As they were putting their coats on and heading out the door, she gave me a goodbye hug with the girls looking on, and whispered in my ear, "I didn't see mistletoe hung anywhere. You should get some." Holiday Break. The week before Christmas was a whirlwind, filled with school holiday activities, Christmas shopping, and end-of-the-year accounting for my business. There wasn't time for play dates, but we did all see each other at the school holiday play and concert. Both girls had parts in the play, Toni as an ice skater and Lizzie tending a chestnut roasting cart. Stefani and I found each other in the crowd of parents entering the auditorium and enjoyed the show side-by-side. I didn't know how she felt about the two of us being friendly in public, so I sat next to her playing the part of a plutonic acquaintance. It was Stefani who reached over and placed her hand on the top of my thigh, which I covered with mine and gave a squeeze of affection. We all went to the downtown sweet shop after the concert where the girls both ate mountainous ice cream sundaes while Stefani and I sipped on decaf coffee. We shared another goodbye hug when we parted ways at the end of the evening. This time it was my turn to whisper in Stefani's ear, "We need to find some time alone." She inhaled sharply and shuddered a little when I discreetly placed a kiss just under her ear. The Big Event. On the morning of Christmas Eve, Lizzie and I made some final preparations for the big event, including retrieval of a formal set of china and crystal stemware packed away in the basement. We washed all the china and stemware before turning our attention to the table by spreading a white linen tablecloth, arranging the china and crystal place settings, and creating a centerpiece with some fir boughs and velvet ribbon. The crowning element was a forest of candles randomly spaced along the center of the table. After finishing, I steered Lizzie up to her room to change clothes before doing a quick final clean of the kitchen and great room, then heading upstairs to freshen up and change. I opted for a slightly casual look with a sport coat and open collar button-down shirt. Lizzie went for an all-out, over-the-top look in a way only a third-grade girl can, with a long lace dress, heels, and an abundance of costume jewelry. I heard gravel crunching under tires as I was complimenting Lizzie on her dress and looked out the window to see Stefani and Toni's car coming to a stop outside. Lizzie and I greeted them at the door. Lizzie with squeals of excitement for Toni, and me with a hug for Stefani. With a long overcoat still on, Stefani said, "Presents and dinner are in the trunk of my car. Would you mind?" "Of course not." I didn't bother putting on a coat and swiftly walked out to retrieve hot trays of food covered in aluminum foil and packed in boxes. Toni held the door open upon my return to the house and I complimented her attire, which was on par with Lizzie's style for the evening. I entered to see Stefani standing in the kitchen wearing a floor-length, deep burgundy satin evening gown. The off-the-shoulder cut drew attention to her lithe neck and sensually exposed collar bones and shoulders, while the deep-V bust line and her pendant necklace pointed directly to the shallow valley between her modest tits. The torso of the dress was neatly fitted to her narrow waist then flared outward over her hips into the pleated A-line gown. It was the perfect dress for her body and she looked absolutely amazing. My admiration grew even more when she shifted position to purposefully reveal a long, toned leg through the full length slit in the side. "You look incredible!" I praised while placing the boxes of food on the kitchen island and making a show of looking at her from head to toe. She feigned a shy, "Aww, thank you." and humbly said, "I wear it once a year for the company holiday party." I turned to make another trip to her car and on the way out the door, I replied, "You should wear it more often. You make that dress look really good." I made several trips schlepping boxes of food and Christmas presents. When I returned and put the last couple boxes on the kitchen counter, Stefani had begun unpacking an assortment of homemade Italian dishes, including chicken piccata, fettucine with clam sauce, an antipasto salad, and an assortment of other side dishes. I exclaimed, "Wow, this looks and smells fantastic!" as I moved to steal a small clam off the top of the fettucine. She swatted my hand and playfully disciplined, "You need to wait, mister!" The girls tasked themselves with lighting the numerous candles on the table as I dimmed the house lights. Meanwhile, Stefani finished plating the last few items and carried them to the table. We dined by the soft glow of candlelight talking about good memories of Christmas, with Stefani and I temporarily ignoring the painful ones from our respective pasts. At one point, as the girls were consumed with a conversation of their own, Stefani commented, "This china is beautiful. You have good tastes." I didn't want to kill the mood, but I also wanted to be honest. "Julie picked it out for our wedding registry. She had an eye for the finer things in life." "Oh my gosh, I'm so, so sorry! I should have known!" "Please, it's okay. I wouldn't have used it if I wasn't ready to talk about it. I figured it was time to dust it off for a special occasion." She meekly asked, "Is this the first time you've used it since?" "Yes." Her beautiful blue eyes looked warmly into mine as her long slender fingers mindlessly twirled a lock of hair above her right ear. She spoke with layers of meaning, "I'm understanding more and more that Julie knew how to choose the finer things." We shared an extended gaze across the table that was only interrupted by Toni asking, "Can we have dessert now?" Stefani and I chuckled and she answered, "Yes, you may." before standing up to clear the table of dirty plates. I offered in my best butler voice, "I will service the table, madam, if you would like to prepare the next course for the Ladies of the Court." The girls thought that was hilarious and started practicing their own stuffy accents, which only intensified as consequences of the sugary tiramisu and cannoli took hold. When we had all finished, I announced in my Lordship voice, "Thank you Ladies, the food was remarkable and so was the company. Shall we retire to the parlor for after-dinner amusements?" The girls looked confused, so Stefani clarified, "He means games." after which they scrambled out of their chairs to explore the cabinet housing our selection of card and board games. Stefani and I cleared the table and generally tidied up the kitchen while the girls debated which games to play. We worked efficiently as a team, sharing a lot of unnecessary and 'accidental' touches as we moved about. The girls finished their game selections and we played several games of 'Chutes 'N Ladders' before moving on to 'Sorry' and, finally, a very long game of 'Monopoly' in which they eventually lost interest and asked if they could go watch a movie in the basement. Stefani started to object, "It's getting late. We should probably be going." before I gestured for the girls to go on downstairs. They didn't wait for Stefani's response and took off down the stairs. She looked at me quizzically as I stood up and motioned for her to follow me. We trailed the girls down the stairs where Stefani silently absorbed what was before her. I had set up two twin beds in front of the downstairs television and created a makeshift tent out of some decorative tree branches, tulle fabric, and twinkle lights. It was a perfect sleepover paradise for two third-grade girls. I put my arm around Stefani and whispered in her ear, "You're right, it is getting late. Maybe you should just spend the night." She put her arm around my back and whispered back, "Umm; sounds nice, but;” as she nodded toward the girls. I responded not to her, but to Lizzie and Toni who were sitting on one of the beds scrolling through movie options on the DVR. "Girls?" When they both raised their heads to look at me, I announced, "We've decided to let you have a sleepover tonight so that we can all be here together for Christmas morning;” They cheered and hugged each other before I continued, "; but there are a couple rules; first, you can watch a movie, then you need to get ready for bed in the bathroom down here and go right to sleep. The pink gift bags on your beds are special Christmas Eve sleepover kits with pajamas, toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a few other things." Lizzie and Toni scurried to check out the gift bags, but I interceded, "Wait a minute; the second rule is that you can't come upstairs until 7:00 tomorrow morning;” I said motioning to Stefani and I, "; we need a decent night's sleep. Do you both agree to the rules?" They eagerly shouted in unison, "Yes, Yes, Yes!" "Ok, we'll see you on Christmas morning!" Before we could turn to leave, Toni asked, "Mom, where will you sleep?" I anticipated the question and interceded with a little white lie, "She'll sleep in my bed. I'm going to sleep on the great room sofa so I can make sure you two don't try to sneak upstairs to look at the presents." Seemingly satisfied with that answer, Toni simply said, "Okay, goodnight mom." To be continued in part 3. Based on a post by Architect 23 94, in 3 parts, for Literotica.

Founding the Fellowship: Amateur Spies and the Quest for Peace: Colleague Charles Spicer introduces Ernest Tennant, a British WWI veteran deeply traumatized by the loss of his peers, who established a connection with Joachim von Ribbentrop, then an Anglophile, to bridge the gap between London and Berlin, leading to the creation of the Anglo-German Fellowship; key figures include the scholar Philip Conwell-Evans and Lord Lothian, with the Travelers Club in London serving as the operational hub where these "amateur spies" sought to civilize the Nazis through diplomacy. 1933

BJ has been talking about buying a quarter cow the last couple weeks and yesterday he finally did it! One problem, he told his son, Frog that he bought a quarter cow and of course his son asked what that meant? BJ told him.....

Today's guest is so special to me, because she is the person who taught me how to become the parent I am today. She's basically my Darlynn. I'm so excited to introduce you to Jeanette Yoffe, who is here to talk about regulation strategies for kids.You'll Learn:How to use the PACE Model to support yourself and your childSome of Jeanette's favorite phrases for connecting with your kid and their behavior (and a few to avoid)7 nonverbal cues to pay attention to12+ strategies to help regulate the nervous systemWe're sharing our favorite simple strategies to help kids deal with their big feelings. You're gonna love it!-----------------------------------Jeanette Yoffe is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She's an adoptee, and she focuses on kids who have experienced trauma, attachment disruption, been in the foster care system, or were adopted. In addition to her direct work with families, she has an amazing book out called The Traumatized and At Risk Youth Toolbox, which includes 160 different therapeutic exercises that anyone can do to help kids process their big feelings.I first met Jeanette when Lincoln (my oldest son) was almost 5 years old. At that time, I was so desperate to be a good parent and not be a rageful mom and fuck up my kid.I truly think of her as an angel that came into my life at exactly the right time. She was our family's therapist, and she introduced me to an entirely new framework for parenting and relating to my kids. Meet Jeanette YoffeJeanette loves all kids, but her heart is truly with foster children. She says that a lot of the work she does now comes from trying to be what she needed as a kid. Jeanette first went into therapy herself when she was a 13-year-old with suicidal ideation. For the first 15 months of her life, she lived with her birth family, but it was deemed unsafe for her to stay with her mother, who was struggling with mental illness. Then, she spent 6 ½ years in foster care in 3 different homes. Finally, she was placed in another home to be adopted at the age of 7 ½. She says, “Those frequent moves had a great impact on me and my nervous system and my ability to trust and feel secure in any relationship with any parent. Even when I was adopted, I kept asking my mother, ‘When are you going to give me away?' Because that's all that I knew.”When Jeanette was 13, she was living with her adoptive family, which included 2 adopted siblings and a foster child, who had visits with her birth mother. Jeanette started to wonder, “Where is my birth mother? Why is she not coming back for me?” The conclusion she came to was that she must really be unlovable and deficient in some way. When she watched that foster child be reunified with her mother, Jeanette started questioning her life and her existence. She experienced anxiety and depression. She didn't know what to do with those feelings. Her self esteem plummeted.Also around this time, Jeanette wrote a suicide note to her best friend and said, “Tonight I'm gonna do it.” Thankfully, her friend told her mother, and she started therapy. Compassion was the biggest piece of healing for Jeanette. She says, “Therapy really changed my life and helped me really make sense of what happened to me. Once I started having compassion for what I'd been through, I could start feeling a sense of relief.” This is now at the root of her work with kids and families. The PACE ModelThis model was created by Daniel Hughes. He teaches it as “PACE your child”. Jeanette teaches parents to “PACE yourself” first. Just as in the Calm Mama Process, you want to regulate yourself first so that you can be compassionate...

The time was November 22, 1963 when the President of the United States, JFK was assassinated. Traumatized by the event, many citizens became stunned by the event, too much at the time to question the incident. Since then we have been analyzing the shooting questioning the official story and blaming the CIA for orchestrating the assassination. But is there enough evidence?Who had motive? Who may have been involved? Was the arrested shooter the lone gunman? These questions have been surfacing ever since to coin the phrase "conspiracy theory" as the example of the term.

Hello to our lovely coven, happy Friday! Today we get knee deep in all of your crazy Heauxmetown Hero tales, and dive into the nitty gritty for WWDD.  In need of something cute and cool for the summer? Get yourself or whoever's on your daddy list a tee, hoodie, or daddy hat from our store! Please support our show and show off your love for Disrespectfully by repping our official gear :) K Love ya bye! Thank you to our sponsors! Quince: Go to https://Quince.com/disrespectfully for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns OPositiv: Take proactive care of your health and head to https://OPositiv.com/DRF or enter DRF at checkout for 25% off your first purchase Upwork: Visit https://Upwork.com right now and post your job for free Homeaglow: Head to https://homeaglow.com/DISRESPECTFULLY to get your first 3 hours of cleaning for only $19 Honeylove: Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://honeylove.com/DISRESPECTFULLY! #honeylovepod Need Advice? We are here to help! Send your questions to disrespectfullypod@gmail.com and we may answer your questions on the show! Connect with the Coven! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1930451457469874 Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/disrespectfullypod/ Listen to us on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disrespectfully/id1516710301 Listen to us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0J6DW1KeDX6SpoVEuQpl7z?si=c35995a56b8d4038           Follow us on Social! Disrespectfully Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disrespectfullypod Disrespectfully Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@disrespectfullypod Katie Maloney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musickillskate Dayna Kathan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daynakathan Leah Glouberman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahgsilberstein Allison Klemes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonklemes/ Buy our merch! https://disrespectfullypod.com/ Disrespectfully is an Envy Media Production.

The nation that brought us The Peanut Butter Solution is back at it with another absolute baffling banger of a film. Join us as we puzzle our way through another wild Canadian ride, Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang. suggestions@traumatizedpodcast.com @traumatizedcast

What is Kevin James up to on TikTok? We talk movies that traumatized us as kids and the worst piercings to get! All this and more on The Mark and Jess Replay!

Getting your bike peed on, having a terrible stepmom... the joys of childhood

Am I the Jerk? is the show where you can confess your deepest darkest secrets and be part of the conversation.

SPONSORS: - Join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $27 billion dollars with Acorns. Head to https://acorns.com/DANNYB or download the Acorns app to get started. - Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/uu6cof5i #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement . Discounts and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. It was Halloween at YMH Studios and the whole crew dressed up—except Danny, who lets everybody know exactly how he feels about costumes… and about trick-or-treating in the hood. This episode goes from Halloween chaos to SoundCloud rappers, confidence vs delusion, family pressure, quitting cigarettes, sciatica, touring during winter, expensive sandals, video game handheld beef, and a wild Law & Order: SVU cameo from 2 Chainz that Danny cannot get over. He also talks new album nerves, upcoming New York fits, and what it's like battling nicotine cravings at airports. Light one, crack a Mr. Beast candy, grab some reindeer sausage—this is a classic chaotic episode. Have a question for Danny? Hit us up at danny@thedannybrownshow.com The Danny Brown Show Ep. 183 https://xdannyxbrownx.com https://store.ymhstudios.com Chapters 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:09 - My Girl Didn't Dress-Up 00:05:12 - Spin The Wheel: SoundCloud 00:07:19 - Ask Danny: Social Media Free 00:09:07 - Ask Danny: Chasing Vs Dreaming 00:15:23 - Ask Danny: Family Matters 00:17:25 - Pre-Album Anxiety & Winter Touring 00:22:36 - Cig Addiction, Steam Deck, & First 48 00:26:12 - Spin The Wheel: Sandals 00:29:15 - Reindeer Sausage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Brian Walshe's competency hearing looms, a new question is taking over the courtroom: is he really unable to stand trial—or is this just another con from a man who's been manipulating people his entire life? In this episode of Hidden Killers with Tony Brueski, we revisit the evidence that started it all. The disturbing Google searches like “10 ways to dispose of a body,” “Hacksaw best tool to dismember,” and “Can you be charged with murder without a body.” The Home Depot trip caught on camera. The blood in the basement, the broken knife, the trash bags full of evidence—all of it pointing to a carefully constructed cover-up following the disappearance of Ana Walshe on New Year's Day, 2023. We also dig into Walshe's long history of fraud, deceit, and manipulation—from the Andy Warhol art scam to the conflicting stories he spun after Ana vanished. And now, after a jailhouse stabbing that left him claiming trauma and confusion, the defense says he's too impaired to participate in his trial. But is this genuine mental decline—or yet another strategy to delay the inevitable? Tony breaks down the psychology of control, the legal threshold for competency, and the patterns that define serial manipulators like Walshe. This case isn't about memory loss or confusion—it's about whether the justice system can recognize when it's being played. ⚖️ Walshe remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Subscribe for more Hidden Killers updates on the latest in true crime, psychology, and high-stakes courtroom drama. #HiddenKillers #BrianWalshe #AnaWalshe #TrueCrimePodcast #MurderTrial #CompetencyHearing #JusticeForAna #CrimeAnalysis #TonyBrueski #TrueCrimeCommunity #CourtroomDrama Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

As Brian Walshe's competency hearing looms, a new question is taking over the courtroom: is he really unable to stand trial—or is this just another con from a man who's been manipulating people his entire life? In this episode of Hidden Killers with Tony Brueski, we revisit the evidence that started it all. The disturbing Google searches like “10 ways to dispose of a body,” “Hacksaw best tool to dismember,” and “Can you be charged with murder without a body.” The Home Depot trip caught on camera. The blood in the basement, the broken knife, the trash bags full of evidence—all of it pointing to a carefully constructed cover-up following the disappearance of Ana Walshe on New Year's Day, 2023. We also dig into Walshe's long history of fraud, deceit, and manipulation—from the Andy Warhol art scam to the conflicting stories he spun after Ana vanished. And now, after a jailhouse stabbing that left him claiming trauma and confusion, the defense says he's too impaired to participate in his trial. But is this genuine mental decline—or yet another strategy to delay the inevitable? Tony breaks down the psychology of control, the legal threshold for competency, and the patterns that define serial manipulators like Walshe. This case isn't about memory loss or confusion—it's about whether the justice system can recognize when it's being played. ⚖️ Walshe remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Subscribe for more Hidden Killers updates on the latest in true crime, psychology, and high-stakes courtroom drama. #HiddenKillers #BrianWalshe #AnaWalshe #TrueCrimePodcast #MurderTrial #CompetencyHearing #JusticeForAna #CrimeAnalysis #TonyBrueski #TrueCrimeCommunity #CourtroomDrama Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

Abusive Father ~ How can I help my traumatized kids get over having an abusive father? Listen to caller's personal dramas four times each week as Dr. Kenner takes your calls and questions on parenting, romance, love, family, marriage, divorce, hobbies, career, mental health - any personal issue! Call anytime, toll free 877-Dr-Kenner. Visit www.drkenner.com for more information about the show (where you can also download free chapter one of her serious relationships guidebook).

In this week's installment of the Traumatized series, Pastor Khalid addresses relational trauma—how past emotional, psychological, physical, or spiritual harm can impact our ability to form and sustain healthy relationships. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, he teaches that we are designed for community, and that partnership and connection with others not only support our healing but also increase our productivity and effectiveness.#TraumatizedSeries #RelationalHealing #PastorKhalid #FaithAndCommunity #ChristianSermon #HealingInChristSupport the show

Pastor Khalid returns with the latest installment of our Traumatized series! This week, he explores the story of Gideon—a man willing to serve but uncertain about his calling. Through conversation and confirmation from God, Gideon learned that obedience is the key to overcoming uncertainty. His response wasn't just building an altar—it was working while waiting and trusting God in the process. #RedemptionChurchFW #TraumatizedSeries #PastorKhalid #FaithOverFear #Gideon #TrustGod #Obedience #ChristianEncouragement #BibleTeaching #SpiritualGrowth Support the show

https://vimeo.com/1131876810?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci As we look around the world today, there's so much going on that is traumatizing so many people, and we're seeing all these repeating patterns of human history, and you might wonder, have we learned anything from the past? Why do we keep repeating these things? What's going on? And it's possible, it's just possible, for a moment, that what's happening is actually calling us back to wholeness. That all these traumas are actually some kind of evolutionary intelligence, a sacred survival mechanism that, when we meet with compassion and presence, can become a gateway to wholeness. And we're gonna hear about that today from our guest, Michael Stone, who is the author of the book "Traumatized: A Love Story, Healing the Wounds That Separate, Alienate, and Marginalize Us."  Tune in, to find out more! Michael Stone was born committed to healing.  Michael has led many transformational programs. He is a Gestalt Awareness practitioner, certified as a  5Rhythms Teacher, Trance Dance and Soul Motion.   Michael Stone was a faculty member of The Shift Network and currently offers workshops and healing circles. Watch or listen to the show to discover ways to connect with community,  integrate trauma and heal your soul. You're Invited! READ: Traumatized: A Love Story https://www.amazon.com/Traumatized-Love-Story-Separate-Marginalize/dp/B0FCCSQGWZ FREE GIFT: 30 Days of Meditation https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/XR6QKzS QUOTES Underneath all trauma is love—twisted, protected, buried—but still pulsing. Still waiting to be met and embraced. My story is just one thread in a much larger tapestry of human resilience and return. Healing begins when we stop pathologizing trauma and start listening to our bodies.   MICHAEL STONE BIO Michael Stone is a spiritual teacher, author, and organizational consultant whose work integrates modern trauma understanding with ancient practices of soul healing. For more than five decades, he has led individuals and groups through processes of awakening, embodiment, and transformation. As a trauma integration facilitator, and author of "Traumatized: A Love Story – Healing the Wounds that Separate, Alienate, and Marginalize Us"s, Michael's work reframes trauma not as a flaw to be fixed, but as an intelligent, sacred response—a misunderstood love story embedded in our nervous systems, calling us back to wholeness. Drawing from his background in Gestalt psychology, somatic awareness, and shamanic traditions, Michael's teachings illuminate trauma as an evolutionary intelligence—a sacred survival mechanism that, when met with compassion and presence, becomes a gateway to wholeness. Through his Healing & Integration Circles, retreats, and mentorship programs, he supports people in releasing inherited wounds and reclaiming the creative vitality of the nervous system. A lifelong student of teachers such as Thomas Hübl, Gabrielle Roth, and Sandra Ingerman, Michael bridges science, mysticism, and human connection to address the wounds of separation within the individual, the family system, and the collective field. His recent book, "Traumatized: A Love Story — Healing the Wounds that Separate, Alienate, and Marginalize Us", offers a powerful vision of how love, awareness, and embodied community can restore balance in a fragmented world. LINKS Website: https://www.welloflight.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WellofLight Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welloflight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstone-quantumconsultinggroup/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0uLEc_OAlVQCAeXe7XxvLQ   YOUR GUIDE TO SOUL NECTAR: KERRI HUMMINGBIRD Kerri Hummingbird, Medicine Woman, Mother and Mentor, is the Founder of Inner Medicine Training, a Mystery School that shares potent ancient traditions from the Andes and Himalayas for owning your wisdom and living your purpose.

Jeanette Yoffe is a psychotherapist, author, foster care survivor, and a powerhouse of healing wisdom. In this episode, she shares her remarkable journey from the foster system to becoming a therapist. We unpack tools she's created—like the Anger Bag and Shamewich—to help children process big emotions like rage, shame, and grief. What we cover in this episode Her personal adoption journey & one-woman show How trauma shapes identity—and how it doesn't have to define us What the "inner courtroom" and "primal wound" really mean Why transparency is essential in helping foster youth Her new book: The Traumatized and At-Risk Youth Toolbox From creativity to clinical tools, Jeanette bridges the gap between the pain and the possibility. Related Episodes You Might Love Ep85: How Long-Term Fear Affects Your Brain https://sarahwalton.com/fear-affects/ Ep270: The Truth About Learning to Manifest with Alea Lovely https://sarahwalton.com/learn-manifestation/ Ep36: Reimagining The Role of "Mom" https://sarahwalton.com/amy/ Connect with Jeanette Yoffe Website: www.JeanetteYoffe.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanette.yoffe YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@Jeanette-icallySpeaking Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanetteyoffe/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanetteyoffe/ Books: The Traumatized and At-Risk Youth Toolbox https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09TPZM7DY About Jeanette Yoffe Jeanette Yoffe, M.A., M.F.T., earned her Master's in Clinical Psychology, specializing in adoption and foster care, from Antioch University in June of 2002. She treats children, teens, and adults with serious psychological problems secondary to histories of abuse, neglect, adoption, and /or multiple foster care placements. She has specialized for the past 20 years in the treatment of children and teens who manifest serious deficits in their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral development. She is also an adopted person, raised in foster care for 6 years. She's the Founder of Celia Center Inc., a nonprofit supporting the entire foster care and adoption community in Los Angeles, and Clinical Director of Yoffe Therapy Inc., providing mental health services to families connected by foster care and adoption. Jeanette is also an author and creator. Her books include "The Traumatized and At-Risk Youth Toolbox" (featuring over 160 interventions), plus children's books "What is Adoption?" and "What is Foster Care?" (available in English and Spanish). Her one-woman show "What's Your Name, Who's Your Daddy?" is available on Amazon and Audible. She also runs the YouTube channel "Genetically Speaking" with educational videos, animations, and the "Hand Model of the Brain" for kids. In 2006, she received the Los Angeles Foster Care Hero Award. She's appeared on OWN, TLC, and the Hope Network, and speaks regularly to adoptive parents and social workers about the psychological impacts of foster care and adoption. Free gift from Sarah Book a free 15-minute call to explore working together: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/60d4f7f6/appointment/52999780/calendar/909961?appointmentTypelds%5B%5D=52999800 Ready to shift from chasing to receiving in your business? Book your call with Sarah today and discover how The Abundance Academy can help you scale with soul, strategy, and sanity. Work with Sarah Apply for The Abundance Academy group coaching program https://sarahwalton.com/abundance-academy/ Connect with Sarah Website: https://sarahwalton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahwalton/ You can check out our podcast interviews on YouTube, too! http://bit.ly/YouTubeSWalton Thank you so much for listening. I'm honored that you're here and would be grateful if you could leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here, scrolling to the bottom, and clicking "Write a review." Then, we'll get to inspire even more people! (If you're not sure how to leave a review, you can watch this quick tutorial.) About Sarah Walton Sarah Walton is a business coach specializing in helping women entrepreneurs overcome internal barriers to success. With a background in trauma-informed coaching and nervous system regulation, she takes a holistic approach that addresses both mindset and tactical business skills. Featured on The Today Show and speaking at women's conferences worldwide, Sarah has helped hundreds of women build profitable, sustainable businesses aligned with their values while healing the deeper blocks that keep them playing small. She's the creator of The Money Mindset Course, The Abundance Academy, and Effortless Sales, and the host of the 5-star-rated Game On Girlfriend® Podcast, becoming the go-to source for women who want to build businesses that honor both their ambition and their nervous system's need for safety.

Send us a textTony Crescenzo, Marine Corps veteran and CEO of Intelligent Waves and Peak NeuroWhat if healing trauma didn't require endless therapy sessions or medication? Tony Crescenzo, Marine Corps veteran and CEO of Intelligent Waves and Peak Neuro, reveals a groundbreaking approach that's changing lives.After eight years in the Marines and time working undercover for Naval Investigative Service, Crescenzo battled PTSD for decades. "I was one of those veterans who goes from zero to FU in about 10 seconds," he admits with candid honesty. His journey from combat to corporate America ultimately led him to discover neuroacoustic brainwave entrainment—a technology that would transform not only his life but the lives of countless veterans, first responders, and elite athletes.The science is fascinating yet approachable. Unlike traditional psychotherapy that requires verbally processing trauma, this technology uses specific sound frequencies to entrain the brain into beneficial states. The prefrontal cortex quiets down, rumination stops, and the body processes trauma somatically rather than narratively. "You may observe the event that caused your trauma like watching a movie, but the emotion dissolves. Your body essentially digests it," Crescenzo explains.The results speak volumes. A Navy SEAL with 21 traumatic brain injuries went from three hours of fragmented sleep to six uninterrupted hours in just 30 days. Headaches disappeared, brain fog lifted, and EEG measurements showed actual neurological restructuring. Perhaps most remarkably, users don't become dependent on the technology—the brain undergoes permanent trait-level changes, eliminating the need for ongoing medication or therapy.Ready to experience this transformation yourself? The Peak Neuro app offers free trials with exercises for sleep, stress reduction, and cognitive enhancement. As Crescenzo powerfully reminds us: "If you're struggling, don't struggle alone. Whatever happened is over and your body's here, but your mind is there. Bring your mind with you and we can help you do that." Support the show Sponsor Affiliates Empowering Your Health https://www.atecam.com/ Get YOUR Own Joburg Protein Snacks Discount Code: Damaris15 Or Damaris18 Feeling need to Lose Weight & Become metabolically Healthy GET METABOLIC COURSE GLP 1 REseT This course is designed for individuals looking to optimize their metabolic health through integrative and functional medicine approaches. Whether you're on a GLP-1 medication or seeking natural ways to enhance your metabolic function, this course provides actionable steps, expert insights, and a personalized roadmap sustainable wellness. Are you feeling stressed, tired, or Metabolism imbalanced? Take advantage of our free mindful steps to help improve your well-being.ENJOY ONE OF our Books Mindful Ways Health Wealth & Life https://stan.store/Mindfullyintegrative Join Yearly membership ALL IN ONE FUNCTION HEALTH Ask Us for help...

NOTE: There are some visual elements to this episode, and we encourage you to view it on YouTube if you would like to watch: Full Video Episode on Youtube   In this compelling episode of Eyes Wide Open, host Nick sits down with Amber Trejo, a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified clinical trauma professional.     Amber shares her transformative journey of becoming a dedicated therapist specializing in childhood trauma.    The conversation delves into the profound impact of trauma therapy on individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the pivotal role millennials play in breaking generational cycles of trauma.   Nick invited Amber on his show to discuss a social media post where she shared what her approach would be if she were counseling couples on the left and right in America.    They go on to discuss her post, emphasizing that systemic issues, rather than individuals, often perpetuate societal divisions. Understanding and addressing these issues is crucial for healing the traumatized nation.   ​​Amber discusses the importance of regulating one's nervous system amidst overwhelming 24/7 news and social media, advocating for mindfulness and intentional consumption of information to stay regulated.   Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Amber Trejo 00:04:31 Impact of Trauma Therapy 00:10:31 Millennials and Generational Trauma 00:18:31 Therapeutic Language on Social Media 00:20:45 Navigating Political Polarization and Mental Health 00:30:08 Understanding Political Division as a Relationship Issue 00:36:24The Role of Trauma in Political Discourse 00:42:22 Media Manipulation and Its Impact on Society 00:49:19 Curiosity and Empathy in Political Conversations 00:54:25 Regulating Our Nervous System in a Chaotic World 00:58:28 The Evolution of Political Views 01:02:22 Key Issues and Personal Beliefs   Find Amber Trejo here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integrativetraumatherapist/   Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DO4CKzFgJU8/   America's Therapist IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DO4CKzFgJU8/   Website: https://www.theintegrativetraumatherapist.com/      Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/  |   https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/     YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/       UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/   Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/    

Grab your tiny plastic tea set, your irrational attachment to Samantha's velvet holiday dress, and maybe an extra rosary, because today we're getting a broader understanding of dolls with baggage (with some help from Kristen Bear of Creative Sobriety)From the American Girl historical trauma pipeline to the haunted legends of Robert and Annabelle, we're busting out our broken babydoll memories and trying to understand why we wanted harrowing backstories instead of pristine BarbiesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/broads-next-door--5803223/support.

In this powerful message, Pastor Khalid explores Judges 6:11–18 and the life of Gideon—how God called him out of hiding and into purpose. When we're suffering from secondhand trauma, it can be difficult to recognize God's presence, promises, and plans. But like Gideon, we're invited to shift our mindset and respond with a willing heart.#TraumatizedSeries #RedemptionChurchFW #PastorKhalid #FaithHealing #ChristianGrowth #Judges6 #SecondhandTrauma #SpiritualHealing #ChurchOnlineSupport the show

Not long ago, everybody was arguing about whether characters need to be "relatable". We get to the bottom of a debate that still makes us intensely grouchy. Plus we talk to one of our favorite writers, C.L. Polk, about how to write excellent descriptions in your fiction -- and it turns out to be all about connecting to a character's POV.

Episode Synopsis:Are we victims of events that cause trauma, or does the need to respond to injustice actually come from being created in the image of God?We talk about this and much more, including:How does our response to events result in cycles of trauma?What are some ways to process through traumatic experiences?Where does our need to respond to injustice come from?How does the Godhead respond to injustice?What are we to make of our relationship with Yeshua Christ Jesus?Original Air DateOctober 15th, 2025 Show HostsJason Spears & Christopher DeanOur PatreonConsider joining our Patreon Squad and becoming a Tier Operator to help support the show and get access to exclusive content like:Links and ResourcesStudio NotesA monthly Zoom call with Jason and Christopher And More…ORP ApparelMerch StoreConnect With UsLetsTalk@ORPpodcast.comFacebookInstagram

In this week's message, Pastor Khalid explores the effects of secondhand trauma—how the consequences of someone else's calling, commitment, or choices can deeply affect us as bystanders. Using Judges 6:1–18, he reminds us that even when we're impacted by the struggles of others, God still has a story and purpose unfolding through it all.#TraumatizedSeries #RedemptionChurchFW #PastorKhalid #FaithHealing #ChristianGrowth #Judges6 #SecondhandTrauma #SpiritualHealing #ChurchOnlineSupport the show

The Old Man Haunted by BigfootIn a smoky Nashville bar, the Jim buys a beer for the elderly, down-on-his-luck Samuel, a monthly regular living frugally on Social Security in a rooming house. Spotting Samuel's hunger, the narrator orders him food and invites him to join at his table. Over burgers and beers, the narrator introduces himself as Jim from Louisville, fresh from hurricane repair work in Florida. Samuel, born and raised in North Carolina's mountains, opens up about why he left his beloved home at 21—not for war or lack of work, but for a darker reason. Eager for steady pay during scarce times, young Samuel joined a logging company, impressing the foreman with his marksmanship and landing a job as an armed deputy enforcing land evictions on mountain families. Shunned by his community for aiding the bosses, Samuel grew isolated. The story's climax came during the third attempt to evict the reclusive Prater clan from their ancient 1,800-acre forest homestead, led by the fierce Mammy Prater. Using kidnapped six-year-old Jenny as leverage, the deputies arrived to collect weapons and demand departure. The Praters complied eerily, gathering to unleash a haunting, high-pitched chant that summoned massive, hairy ape-like beasts from the woods. The creatures slaughtered the entire eviction party in a frenzy of boulders, gunfire, and gore, sparing only Samuel after Mammy declared him a "token" to flee and never return or speak of it. Traumatized, Samuel was forever exiled from his home and family. Years later, tears in his eyes, he shares the tale with the narrator, who leaves unsettled—haunted by nightmares of the impossible horror, unsure if he believes it but forever changed by the old man's quiet burden.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

This novel definitely is the type of novel that will stay with you. So you're welcome, Sam, for making me read this book this week! Sam and Morgan discuss their favorite spooky movies and realize that we are both cowards. How we finish this twisty novel, we will never know.    About The Novel:  A young woman is making a living faking it as a cut-price psychic (with some illegal soft-core sex work on the side). She makes a decent wage mostly by telling people what they want to hear. But then she meets Susan Burke. Susan moved to the city one year ago with her husband and 15-year-old stepson Miles. They live in a modern Victorian house called Carterhook Manor. Susan has become convinced that some malevolent spirit is inhabiting their home. The young woman doesn't believe in exorcism or the supernatural. However when she enters the house for the first time, she begins to feel it too, as if the very house is watching her, waiting, biding its time...   Wanna Check us out? Click https://linktr.ee/JOMPage

Hey, Survivor! Ever tried drumming, as a trauma healing tool?  In this episode, I'll talk about body-based regulation and the power of drumming.  I'll share about my experience at a group healing session, what it felt like, the science behind it, and how you can put it into practice and improve your health and well-being.  Your safety matters! If you, or someone you know, are looking to add more tools to your toolbox, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

I don't know if you've noticed, but therapy-speak has gone mainstream. On social media, and in personal and professional communication, you might hear phrases like “I'm triggered,” “that's my trauma,” “I'm being gaslit.” But as common as that kind of jargon is becoming, it's not necessarily helpful, especially for those experiencing true mental illness. Joe Nucci is a licensed psychotherapist, author, and content creator whose new book, Psychobabble: Viral Mental Health Myths & the Truths to Set You Free, takes aim at the myths and misconceptions of therapy culture.

We're back in our Traumatized series with Part 11: I Have What I Need, Pt. 2! Pastor Khalid teaches from 2 Timothy 1:6–7, reminding us that the gifts God has given us are meant to be stirred up and shared for the good of the body.He emphasizes that maximizing your gift requires participation, every contribution matters, and diversity within the body leads to unity. Reflection Question: How can we help each other for the sake of the body?#TraumatizedSeries #RedemptionChurchFW #PastorKhalid #SpiritualGifts #UnityInChrist #FaithInAction #2Timothy1 #ChristianGrowth #BibleTeaching #ChurchOnlineSupport the show

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Since our planned discussion of Revenge of the Nerds was derailed because it's so problematic we had to order a Blu-Ray on the dark web, we're talking about the next best thing, Real Genius.   suggestions@traumatizedpodcast.com @traumatizedcast  

In this episode, Marcela Collier, a certified parenting coach, discusses managing behaviors in traumatized children. She shares insights from her experience in therapeutic foster care and personal trauma, emphasizing the importance of understanding trauma's impact on the brain and the need for relational safety. If you're ready to stop yelling, stop reacting in anger, and finally feel calm and confident when your child has a meltdown… this is for you. Your child's behavior isn't the real problem.That's the message. And once you learn to see it that way, you'll stop fighting your child… and start healing your relationship with them. So don't wait. DM me “peace 25” on Instagram right now and get started with the free class.@highimpactaz@hicparenting Because your child doesn't need a perfect parent.They need a safe one. And that parent can be you.

 In Part 10 of our Traumatized series, I Have What I Need (1 Corinthians 12), Pastor Khalid reminds us that God has equipped each believer with spiritual gifts for His glory. Too often, we become traumatized by criticism for not having certain gifts, by coveting the gifts and outcomes of others, or by comparing ourselves to those around us. This message calls us back to confidence in Christ — knowing that we already have what we need in Him.#TraumatizedSeries #RedemptionChurchFW #SpiritualGifts #BibleTeaching #ChristianLiving Support the show

  By Mary Lindow    WE LIVE IN A CORRUPT WORLD and therefore, have the “effects and affects” of that corruption ever influencing, ever tainting and ever wooing the flesh.  Let's look at the definition of a key word I am going to use in this crucial message. Plumbline: a tool that consists of a small, heavy object attached to a string or rope and that is used especially to see if something (such as a wall) is perfectly vertical or in alignment)     A plumbline is a simple but accurate tool used for determining whether or not something is perfectly vertical or upright. The Lord also used, and uses, a "plumbline," His Word, to determine how upright His people truly are in His sight. How upright they think they are, or how upright they proclaim themselves to be, means nothing to God.  "Behold, I WILL set a plumbline in the midst of My people".  -Amos 7:7    A PLUMBLINE SET OUT BY THE HAND OF GOD IS ONE THAT WE CAN ANCHOR OUR HEARTS TO.  It will always, always, ALWAYS, direct us to the truth in a matter; even if it requires pain, loss, persecution and perhaps death in areas we feel we may well have rights to.  It will also be a shield, a balm, a comfort and a teacher to those who will yield to the directive positioning of the Master.   “I will make justice the measuring line  and righteousness the plumbline.”  -Isaiah 28:17    I am by far not an expert on the subject of plumblines and righteousness, so take what I say in the light of one who at time gropes like a child in the dark, ever reaching for the hand of the ONE to lead me into a safe place filled with His Hope, His Mercy, His Light and Life.   LIFE – DISTRESS - AND PERSECUTION  I have found that in my life, distress and persecution do not feel like God's care being poured out on me. My heart is not immediately drawn to thanksgiving and gratefulness for the faithfulness of God on display as I cling to the battered pieces that look like potential “rafts” of hope, only to find out that many of them have gaping holes or slow leaks in them.  Rather, it feels like yet another hurt is being permanently woven into my tattered and war-torn soul. It seems as if another mound of questions are piling up and just waiting for an answer and a true solid REAL anchor of hope.    A Courageous, brilliant, humble servant of God and fellow female Counselor and minister of the Gospel has deeply impressed me and my approach to caring for and ministering to others. She spoke the following words boldly regarding pain, abuse, and the suffering of traumatic events. Quoting Dr. Langberg, "In the midst of the trauma and suffering I have also seen the work of the Redeemer. He fills his people with his life and in ordinary ways, little by little; they bring his hope and healing to a ruined world. Traumatized and caregiver alike are transformed. He works both ways as they bend together to bring his redemption to the ravages of evil. I know this to be true for he has done so in me. I have learned many lessons over the years. I have listened to countless tragedies. Of one thing I am certain: unless we are gripped by the truths of the Cross of Christ in our own hearts and lives, the hope and power of the Cross will not pass from us to others. We cannot give what we do not have.  May love and obedience to the Son of Man so govern our personal lives that he can through us bring his life to this ruined planet." (End of quote)   I CAN REALLY CONNECT TO THE WRITER OF PSALM 42  He said “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” It's at those very times that the words of the Savior are so important. When we are down and in turmoil.  But, how do we connect the dots between what we know is true about God's faithfulness and what our hearts feel? When flipped and flung around by the waves, weary from crying and when no answer seems at hand, what IS the answer?  When my circumstances show many foes and tyrants rising up against me and my heart is prone to wander and fear, what hope is there of peace?  When my feelings start controlling my thoughts, how can I rest in God's promises?    AT THIS POINT… I HEAR THE “GASPS”,  (and perhaps shocked comments of a few who are amazed that someone who "appears" to walk so fervently and intimately with the Lord) would have such difficulties!  Well! Guess what? I do struggle, I do hurt, and yes I do doubt when I have been side swiped or “rammed” by skilled cons and those who, although may have the appearance of godliness and offered friendship or fellowship, end up having private and evil agendas behind their well placed and planned schemes. And boy oh boy! Those skilled players know the wicked art of wounding the heart and causing people to reel in pain!    BUT, THERE IS ONE WHO FULLY SEES IT ALL  The main skill in the issue of dealing with life as a spiritual person, is to know how to handle yourself when things not only crush and grind your heart, but what to do with the anguish and toll of their aftermath.  We have to get ourselves into a place where we hear clearly again.  We need have to address ourselves, preach to ourselves, and ask questions about ourselves.  We must say to our soul: "Why are you cast down –Why are you so anxious and lacking in peace?"  We must urge ourselves, and say ‘Hope in God' – instead of remaining in this paralyzed, aching state!”    AND THEN WE MUST TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER We must go on to remind ourselves just “Who" God is, and what God is, and what God has done, and what God has promised that he Himself said that He would do.  Having done that we can stand up and sing out strongly, defying the torment of the soul, and resist other people's wicked tongues and arrogance, and refuse to go along with the devil and the whole world, and say: ‘Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”    The hope and promise of the fairness of God's justice when dealing with the hurtful things and presumptions of others gives me the confidence to know that God will never turn away from me in my need. No matter how they seem to prosper in the short term, wicked men and women will ultimately pay for their sins, in this life or the next. Jesus died to meet my greatest hardships and sorrows for me, and I need to preach this to myself every day.   His power is greater than my weariness and suffering.  The comforting and instruction that comes from simply running to feed upon His word instead of the toxic poison of the replaying of trauma reminds me that what Jesus has done is strong enough for my soul to rejoice in and to be set into a place where it can rest and regroup, gaining a healthy perspective about what to give out to others and what is simply… …. To be enjoyed by the Lord Himself.    THE NATURAL IMPULSES OF MANKIND ARE SINFUL AND DECEITFUL!  Human willpower alone will never be able to change this.  We need God's help to truly change our hearts.  REMEMBER. You cannot change the heart of anyone else either.  If you try to, you will feel the bite of stinging venom or be laughed out of a room. Only the power of the conviction of the Holy Spirit can permeate and get around the jam-packed hardhearted egos of the self sufficient and bitter.  Jeremiah 17:9 says that the human heart is deceitful in all things and is even beyond cure!   We must be cautious and wise in reproving and warning such types of people about their bad behaviors and wicked actions where there seems to be no appearance or hope of change and where there is danger of experiencing great and heart wrecking retaliation and slander.    THESE TYPES TRAMPLE THE WARNINGS AND URGING FOR REPENTANCE  and humbling of the heart under their feet, and turn again and slash at you, despising the warnings that are “tearfully and fearfully” given, and often hurt the persons who give them, either by words or deeds.    "Don't waste what is holy on people who are unholy.  Don't throw your pearls to pigs!  They will trample the pearls,  then turn and attack you.”  -Matthew 7:6    “GIVE ME THE FACTS MA'AM JUST THE FACTS” I remember that phrase from a TV show called “Dragnet”. The detective would not allow the details of the case to be skewed by any assumptions or pontificating from those he interviewed. He stoically and firmly demanded only the facts.    And so, here are the “facts” about the heart of a good man or woman. 1.) The good man or woman:  Brings good things out of the good stored up in his/her heart.   And the facts about an evil man or woman.  2.) The evil man/woman,  Brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his/her heart. For out of the overflow of his or her heart his or her mouth speaks.  -Luke 6:45    THE FRAILTY, BRIEFNESS, AND INSECURITY OF LIFE  The frailty, briefness, and insecurity of life should hold down the vanity and presumptuous confidence of all of our projects and boasting about future greatness and bragging rights! We are always to depend on the will and leading of God.    OUR TIMES ARE NOT IN OUR OWN HANDS, BUT ARE INSTEAD IN THE TIMING OF GOD. Our heads may be filled with cares and plans for ourselves, or our families, or our friends; but Divine intervention often throws our plans into bewilderment. All we have in mind, and all we do, should be with a humble and deep dependence on God. It is foolish, and it is hurtful, to boast of trendy “latest happening” things and prospective projects, and it will bring great disappointment and will prove destructive to relationships and meaningful help to others in the end.    “For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions.  These are not from the Father, but are from this world.”  -1 John 2:16   LISTEN KINDLY - BEFORE SPEAKING YOUR THOUGHTS  People don't need a lecture on the meaning of suffering or to have a barrage of scriptures “machine-gunned” at them as a reprimand for sharing their moment of grief or struggle! (Especially when their hearts are breaking, weary of the battle and if they are fatigued.) Job could have done without some of the self-righteous answers that came from his “well-meaning” friends. All of the answers could have even been true, but Job didn't need to hear any of them.  He needed their love, not their value judgments.  In fact, it appears as if God judged THEM for trying to offer simple solutions to things that were beyond their comprehension. They had never walked in the loss he was in anguish over.    WHEN WE SUFFER UNJUSTLY WE HAVE A MAJOR CHOICE TO MAKE How will we respond? We can feel sorry for ourselves (and understandably so, for a while), become bitter and cynical, get drawn into a war of words, or even become mixed up in a major conflict. On the other hand, we can take our suffering to the cross and allow our pain to draw us into a deeper place of understanding of what Jesus went though in his sufferings. This does not remove the pain, but does help us to know what to do with our hurt.    THIS IS THE 'FELLOWSHIP OF HIS SUFFERINGS (Philippians 3:10), one of the gateways to closeness with God and the release of his power in our lives. The weight of heartbreak shared with a loving friend cuts it in half. When the burden is shared with many friends, we can cope with almost anything. We never feel more revitalized than when a friend loves us enough to walk with us in our pain. Not lecture us.    The apostle Paul wrote these words to the church in Corinth:  "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God". -1 Corinthians 1.3-4    SOMETIMES GOD GETS INVOLVED WITH DIRECT MIRACLES,  Giving supernatural strength to those in need. But for the most part, he depends on us, his people, to do his work in the world. We love each other, work for healing, and suffer with those who suffer.  The next time you see a friend who is suffering, Jesus may just invite you to be the warm embrace! We comfort each other with the comfort we have received in Christ. And when we do, we become the Body of Christ and he receives the glory!    THE BIBLE IS CLEAR!  We are to bear one another's burdens.  We are to comfort others as Christ has given comfort to us.  Your hard time becomes my hard time.  We join hands in the journey.  When you succeed, I succeed.  When you suffer, I suffer. But we do it together. We share it together.  And we do it, not so much in our wisdom or our words, but in our availability, our understanding, and through our presence.    THAT'S WHAT FELLOWSHIP IS ALL ABOUT!  But not “bland” fellowship. It is CHRISTIAN fellowship. It is the business of burden bearing. Authentic CHRISTIAN fellowship says that when you need me . . . I'll be there. Support in suffering is at the core of what it means to share life together in Christ. The word for "comfort” is the same root word as the name Jesus used to describe one of the functions of the Holy Spirit in our lives (Paraclete). “I will be a comforter, one who comes alongside to give help.” And so as God comes alongside you, now you are able to come alongside another. As the Comforter is at work within you, so you also can be of comfort to those around you.    WE ARE CALLED TO BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDENS.  To mourn with those who mourn. To be a follower of Jesus means to come alongside people who are hurting and find ways to help them walk even through the valley of the shadow of death. We are called to do this, as the word of God and care of God is shared with the intention of stirring, plowing up hardened hearts, creating a place for repentance and challenging saints to hope again.  I know and believe that as we learn again as believers, to care, to truly listen and to hope fully again, that the sweet and heavy weight of HIS Glory will be made known and will manifest in unfettered and uncontrolled waves of worship and spontaneous adoration of the King of Heaven.    MY FRIENDS IN CHRIST… …LISTEN TO THESE NEXT WORDS I SHARE WITH YOU VERY CAREFULLY. Toleration of sin, pretense, and crookedness do not reveal the character of God, even if they bear his name.  Arrogance is never godly.  Covering up sin is never godly.  Abuse of power is never godly.  Shepherds who feed on sheep are abusive.  Leadership that preserves and protects the system, rather than the people, turns the house of God into a safe place for predators. Exposure brings hope, because it brings the cancer to the light.  To hide sin by cover-up or silent complicity is spiritual abuse.   HE REALLY DOES KNOW WHAT HE WANTS Let's focus on bowing low and seeking His heart and plans in what matters to Him. Indeed, HE is the Plumbline. Jesus demonstrated in the flesh what a human being is to be like who bears God's image. He pursued the vulnerable, protected the little ones, and poured out compassion on the least of these. Any dismissal of abuse, any baptizing of evil, any cover-up or denial is nothing like Him.  Any discarding of the least of these or trampling of the vulnerable is an assault on God Himself—no matter the spiritual words used as an excuse.   AGAIN, I will share another phenomenal insight from Dr. LANGBERG regarding this matter. She said these words in an article; “You see, this Jesus had a passion for redeeming.  For those who have been abused, and are suffering from its debilitating aftereffects, listen hard.  There is hope for you-hope for healing and transformation. I know; I come to you from the frontlines and have seen it happen countless times. It takes courage, hard work, and there is no quick fix. Such redemption was Jesus' master passion. This God came to seek and redeem what has been lost. We must acknowledge and tell the truth about these things. Great damage is being done to God's sheep, in his name.  He weeps over such leaders and the sheep they harm. Be watchful.  Recognize coercive and manipulative behavior.   CALL IT BY ITS RIGHT NAME WHEN SOMEONE IN POWER USES SPIRITUAL WORDS AND IDEAS TO SILENCE, CONTROL, AND INTIMIDATE.  Be discerning about those who hold power—including yourself.  Do not be deceived.  May we, with Daniel, call out to God: “O Lord, hear! O Lord forgive. O Lord listen and act. For your own sake do not delay, because your church and your people are called by your name” (Dan. 9:19).   SO FRIEND. WHAT HAVE YOU LOST?  Your voice? The truth, drowned out by lies?  Your life and its vibrancy, its strength, its giftedness?  Your hope?  God has said He is making all things new... and that includes you. Devastation is, bit by bit, redeem-able. I know. I have had a front-row seat to God's redemptive power in my life, and for the record, one of the people He has done redemptive work in, is me. My work with victims in ministry as well as teaching in schools has revealed to me who God is. Evil can be transformed in the life in which it occurred. That work is also redemptive in the one who walks alongside the broken vessel. Evil is then twice crushed. May the Church of Jesus Christ repent of her pursuit of human externals and bend down, listen, and walk alongside trauma, abuse, racism, hatred, and a blind eye as did her Lord.  In doing so, we will bring joy to the heart of the Father.    I'D LIKE YOU TO PRAY WITH ME BECAUSE RIGHT NOW, I am sure that this touched several hearts, and maybe even made some fear come into some of you who are hiding things or who have abused others, and it's time to come clean.  It's time to get the help that you need.    So, I'd like to pray with all of you listening today.  I ask you to stop and be still.  Position your heart before the Lord as we bring this to him.   Prayer  God, I ask in Jesus' name, that you comfort, strengthen and encourage all who are hurting deeply right now and are going through so much pain and heartache.  Don't allow them to give up in the heat of the battle.  Let them feel your arms wrapping around them and your love overflowing and filling them up. Lord, I will pray often and I know that you will hear my voice, even when I speak to You in my silent thoughts.  To You, I am crying out and my prayers are now before You.  Father, I give to You my problems, I do not want them.  Father, please restore them to You. I know that you have compassion for your children. Father, show them your ways and teach them your paths. Lead them in your truth and teach them you are the God of our salvation and on you we will wait.  Protect them from the evils of this life and guide them through all of their days. Father, thank You for hearing my prayer Father and for considering and for having compassion on all who hear and read these words, and all who hurt, in this troubled world we live in.  Keep them in the center of Your love.  In Jesus' Name~ Amen    I KNOW THAT THIS WAS MOST LIKELY A DIFFICULT AND PROBABLY PAINFUL PODCAST FOR SOME OF YOU,  BUT IT'S A FREEING PODCAST. It brings out into the light the reality that we need to speak up when we see harm being done and we need to get help when we have been harmed so that the stopping of the sorrow when the grief in the trauma can begin and a new pathway can be created in our lives.    I look forward to sharing my next podcast with you! I do want to thank those you are so kind and so gracious.  I have a few very faithful individuals who do support and partner with me to produce these podcasts and I want to let you know I'm always amazed at how many places these go to, because I don't really do a lot of promoting! They just get picked up by other podcast groups and it goes out all across the world, so somewhere in this, the Holy Spirit is using it to glorify the name of Jesus, and for that I am so grateful that he would find something in me that is worthy of sharing. So, thank you again to those of you who help me.   I look forward to being with all of you again and in the meantime, stand firm, call upon the name of the Lord, and tell the truth, in Jesus name.  Goodbye for now!   Duplication and sharing of this message is welcomed provided that complete article, podcast link and website information for Mary Lindow is included. Thank You Copyright © "2025 " -   "THE MESSENGER  - The Advocate of Hope" ~ Mary Lindow  www.marylindow.com https://marylindow.podbean.com Your Gracious Support and Donations Are So Very Helpful And Assist Mary In Publishing Her Teaching Podcasts and Audio Messages. THANK YOU! Please go to PAYPAL to donate or support this blog: Donate to the tax-deductible ministry name of: paypal.me/mlindow     mary lindow @mlindow Mary Lindow - His Beloved Ministries Inc. Or You Can Mail a Check or Cashiers Check to: His Beloved Ministries INC PO Box 1253 Eastlake CO 80614

With Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Damon Friedman of SOF Missions joins us to talk about the unique challenges physically, emotionally and spiritually of veteran.  He offers hope for those dealing with suicide ideation.  Collin Hansen of The Gospel Coalition and the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics talks about the new resource "The Gospel After Christendom" and about the importance of cultural apologetics to help people see the dots of God's truths to connect.   Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here

In this message, Pastor Khalid teaches from 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, reminding us of the importance of confronting sin and distancing ourselves from corrupt influences—even within the church. As believers, we are called to pursue holiness and guard the integrity of the body of Christ.#TraumatizedSeries #ConfrontingCorruption #RedemptionChurchFW #Holiness #1Corinthians5Support the show

Alice Winocour's Couture is a backstage film about the fashion world — less about the clothes than the bodies who wear them, shape them, and photograph them. It's a film about the ways that commerce and fashion (and medicine) shape and damage women's bodies.  As a Winocour fan and researcher since 2015, Alex Heeney connects Couture to Winocour's explorations of traumatized bodies, outsiders, and backstage stories throughout her body of work. 

In Part 8 of our Traumatized series, Pastor Khalid teaches from 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 on how corruption can creep into the church. He explains the signs of a corrupt church and reminds us that upholding God's agenda requires all of us. Watch now on Redemption Church TV.”#TraumatizedSeries #RedemptionChurchTV #SinInTheSanctuary #1Corinthians5 #ChurchCorruption #BibleTeaching #PastorKhalidSupport the show

In Part 7 of our Traumatized series, Pastor Khalid teaches from John 8:1-11 on the difference between correction and condemnation. Without grace, love, and compassion, accountability turns into legalism, judgment, and spiritual bullying. Learn how to handle one another with care. Watch now on Redemption Church TV.#TraumatizedSeries #HealingAndHope #SpiritualGrowth #RedemptionChurchFW #FaithAndHealing #SpiritualBullying #JudgmentalChristiansSupport the show

This week, in Part 6 of our Traumatized series, Pastor Khalid unpacks Galatians 2:11-14 and the dangers of hypocrisy in the church. When leaders compromise, it not only damages their witness but also influences others to do the same. Discover how to stand firm in authenticity and truth.”#redemptionchurchfortwayne #traumatized #churchhypocrisy Support the show

We are back with another episode of "Housewives Nightcap!" In this week's bonus episode, Lauren sits down with "Below Deck" star Fraser Olender to chat about this season of the hit show – and things get hilarious and chaotic! Plus, Emily and Lauren chat about the new episode of “The Real Housewives of Orange County.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part 5 of our Traumatized series, Pastor Khalid teaches from Galatians 2:11-16 about the dangers of believers “switching up” their stance in the faith. When we compromise or change depending on who we're around, it damages our witness and breeds church trauma. Stay rooted, stay consistent, and stand firm in Christ.#RedemptionChurchFW #TraumatizedSeries #Galatians2 #FaithConsistency #ChurchTraumaSupport the show

In Part 4 of our series, Traumatized, Pastor Khalid addresses the pain of church trauma caused by hypocrisy. Reading from Matthew 23, he unpacks the true definition of a hypocrite and how hypocrisy within the body of Christ breeds corruption and harms the mission of the Church.Watch now, like, comment, and share!#TraumatizedSeries #HealingAndHope #Hypocrisyinthechurch #churchtrauma #RedemptionChurchFW Support the show

War of the SpeciesA photographer ventures into the Five Ponds Wilderness in upstate New York with friends who are hunting deer. While his friends hunt, he aims to capture wildlife and scenic shots with his new 1200mm zoom lens. After hours of hiking and photographing, he encounters an eerie silence in the forest, followed by mysterious footsteps. He discovers a small, fur-covered creature he initially mistakes for a human child under attack by large, wolf-like creatures. Firing his revolver, he fends off the attackers, only to face a massive, wolf-like humanoid. In a desperate struggle, he kills the creature, sustaining severe injuries, and rescues the small being, which he realizes is a young sasquatch.Returning to camp with the injured sasquatch, he faces another attack by wolf-like creatures and humanoid "wolfmen." A sasquatch group intervenes, engaging in a fierce battle with the wolfmen, allowing the photographer to survive. He tends to the young sasquatch's wounds, and its parents eventually retrieve it, showing gratitude. His friends, however, are missing, and he later discovers their mutilated bodies, killed by the wolf-like creatures. Traumatized, he spends time in a hospital and psych ward, with authorities dismissing his story as a delusion, attributing the deaths to wild dogs and a bear attack. Despite evidence supporting his account, he is pressured to stay silent.Haunted by nightmares and unable to resume normal life, he returns to the wilderness eight months later, seeking closure. He encounters the young sasquatch again, now healed, and establishes a tentative bond with its family. Leaving food offerings, he finds peace in the wilderness, hoping to coexist with the sasquatch and escape the horrors of his past.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Massive Bigfoot Stalks Alabama HunterIn December 1996, in northwest Alabama, a man went deer hunting on family property after work. He settled into his tree stand, but the woods became eerily silent, prompting him to leave. As he walked along an old log road, he heard heavy footsteps on the ridge above, mimicking his own. Despite clear visibility, he saw nothing. The unseen presence tracked him, getting closer, and another noise approached from the creek below. His uncle's dog appeared, then fled in fear. Suddenly, a deafening, unearthly scream erupted from the ridge, paralyzing him with fear. He eventually fled, with the screaming continuing until he crossed the creek, where it stopped abruptly. Traumatized, he shared the experience with friends who dismissed it as a coyote, but he was convinced it was something unnatural. Though he loved those woods, he never hunted there alone again.Join my Supporters Club for $4.99 per month for exclusive stories:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/what-if-it-s-true-podcast--5445587/support

Every Tuesday, we grab a past question from the Facebook group, then Meredith and Scott answer it and read some of the answers given by other listeners.   The question for this episode: What movie traumatized you as a kid?   Links for this episode:   Costco figs: https://www.costcobusinessdelivery.com/sunny-fruit-organic-sun-dried-figs%2C-40-oz.product.100362726.html   Blade Runner: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083658/   The Billings murders in Pensacola: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murders_of_Byrd_and_Melanie_Billings   Gulf Coast Confidential podcast with Mollye Barrows: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gulf-coast-confidential-with-mollye-barrows/id1648822523   The Wizard of Oz movie: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/   Return to Oz: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_to_Oz   The Exorcist: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070047/   Andrew Gold documentary about witnessing an “exorcism” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l78hW8qVIWI   Mary Queen of Scots: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2328900/   Hannibal: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0212985/   Arachnophobia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099052/   Scott's recommendation: https://netflix-codes.com   Meredith's garlic peeler: https://www.amazon.com/Remover-Twister-Silicone-Odorfree-Internal/dp/B07WNPT8GD?th=1   Meredith's podcast is Meredith For Real – the Curious Introvert: https://MeredithForReal.com   To check out the new Tuesday Question and get in the discussion, join us at WhatWasThatLike.com/facebook.     Sponsor deals: If you're 21 or older, get 25% OFF your first order + free shipping @IndaCloud with code [WHATWAS] at https://inda.shop/[WHATWAS]! #indacloudpod   Go to ThriveMarket.com/WHATWAS to get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift just for signing up.   Go to Quince.com/whatwas for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns!   Get 15% off OneSkin with the code [WHATWAS] at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices