I grew up in a house that wasn't on an actual street, that didn't used to be an actual house. My grandmother was my closest neighbor, and two families of aunts, uncles, and cousins lived down the hill on adjacent properties. I grew up hearing the trains … Continue reading The House on Villa Street
Author: gretchenmulroy
All Wrapped Up
I've learned a lot about being a parent in the almost 17 years I've been one. I've learned to fill a cup only half full for anyone under the age of six because they're most likely going to spill it. And not to let anyone of same … Continue reading All Wrapped Up
My Three Words
For the end of 8th grade, Middle Daughter's class was given an assignment called "My 3 Words." The kids made mini posters and they were each videotaped holding their posters with friends. It was made into a slide show/movie for everyone to watch during the promotion ceremony on the last day of school. My … Continue reading My Three Words
Part Time
I heard a Hootie and the Blowfish song, "Hold my Hand," on the radio the other day and I was immediately taken back to my high school job at the mall. It was my junior year, and I was working at J. Riggings, a tiny little men's clothing store. It was in a corner … Continue reading Part Time
Photo Ready
I've done 10 days of yard work in a row. This is significant for me. As in, "one for the record books, isn't anyone paying attention to how much yard work I've done in 10 days" note-worthy. Especially considering yard work for me is motivated by guilt or shame. Guilt: when hubby, who routinely works … Continue reading Photo Ready
Keeping Score
I keep score in my house; a weird sort of medical-injuries-and-emergencies score. So far... First one to break a bone: Eldest daughter, collarbone vs. cubbies at Pre-k, June 2005 (I told her not to run inside!). First (and only so far) to ride in ambulance: Eldest daughter (see above). First one to get stitches: Youngest … Continue reading Keeping Score
The Dollhouse that Boppa Built
My grandfather built a 3-story dollhouse out of balsa wood for me when I was about eight years old. It was one of the most cherished gifts I received as a child, and it was my favorite thing to play with for most of those years. I don't remember if it was a … Continue reading The Dollhouse that Boppa Built
Crowd Control
The plaque on the wall reads "Auditorium Capacity 970." I've seen this hundreds of times, but don't usually pay it much attention. Over the last 11 years, I've been to dozens of dance recitals, plays and musicals, band and chorus concerts, information and awards nights in the high school auditorium and I've never seen it … Continue reading Crowd Control
If I Knew Then What I Know Now…
"If I knew then what I know now..." One of my Facebook friends posted that the other day. Before I commented, I took the time to read what other people had to say. Someone said that they'd make all the same decisions again, because you can't learn from your mistakes if you don't make them. … Continue reading If I Knew Then What I Know Now…
Middle School Memories
Middle school was full of awkward moments for me. I had a massive crush on this kid who was a year older than me. My highs and lows of sixth grade revolved around how many times I'd pass him in the hall and whether or not he remotely looked in my direction. I'm also pretty … Continue reading Middle School Memories
Gretchen L. Mulroy 