That tiny heart may need some help, but it was formed by the same deep love that built your beautiful family—your love, Greg’s love, the kind that lifts everyone lucky enough to feel it.
On another note…one thing I love about visiting Serenbe is saying hello to all the shop dogs. I always try to pop in and give a pat and hello to Barley at Allchemy, Moses at Mr and Mrs Sharp, Georgia at the Bike Shop, and Finn at the General Store.
There’s something about shop dogs that just fills me with joy. Whether they’re curled up behind a counter, trotting around greeting customers, or simply napping in a sunny patch by the door, their presence adds a kind of warmth and soul that no decor ever could. They remind me to slow down, smile more, and appreciate the little things. A tail wag or a gentle nuzzle from a shop dog can turn an ordinary errand into a moment of happiness. I’m always grateful for the quiet comfort and cheer they bring.
I was so sad to hear that Finn passed. I’m touched that the community is coming together to honor this beloved dog. It says so much about the deep connection we share with our animals—and with one another. Dogs have a quiet way of becoming part of the fabric of our lives. To see that love reflected in a public service speaks volumes about the impact this special pup had. I deeply appreciate a community that recognizes and celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged companions. Another reason to LOVE Serenbe. :-)
I wanted to reach out to say how deeply sorry I am that your sweet baby girl has to go through this. I can only imagine how overwhelming and heavy this must feel.
I’m sure that so many people are holding you and your daughter in their hearts right now. I’m praying for steady hands for her surgical team, strength for you and your family, and a smooth, strong recovery for your little one.
A friend of ours came to town a while back when their young son had to undergo open heart surgery (they made the journey to our hospital because we have a renowned pediatric cardio thoracic surgeon.) It was such a difficult and emotional time for their whole family, and we were grateful to be able to stand by their side through it. Watching them walk through such uncertainty with strength and love was incredibly moving.
The best part is that their little guy pulled through beautifully. Today, you’d never even know he ever had a health issue—he’s thriving, full of energy, and just the sweetest kid. It’s a powerful reminder of how resilient children can be and how far love, support, and excellent care can go.
I shared your story with my friend, and she wanted me to let you know that she’d be happy to speak with you—whether you have questions, need reassurance, or just want to hear about her experience. She knows how hard this road can be and is more than willing to share her journey if it would be helpful to you. Just say the word, and I can connect you two.
Also, I am friends with this pediatric cardio thoracic surgeon, and if you haven’t already selected a surgeon, I would be happy to ask him who he recommends in the Atlanta area.
Sending you strength for each step ahead as you care for your precious girl.
Thank you so much for this kind and thoughtful note. It really touched me—I felt the care in every word.
We’re in a bit of a holding pattern right now, so I’m just taking things slowly. But I’ll definitely reach out if and when it feels like the right time to connect or explore options.
I’m so sorry to hear about Dottie!! Parenthood is definitely the most challenging role of life, in my opinion.
Having a child with a serious health issue or chronic illness is like no other stress in the world. I know this first hand, and feel for you 💗
Definitely lean into your friend group, talking and allowing friends to support you will help you tremendously, and deepen those friendships in magical ways.
Since you’re a writer, you probably are journaling, but getting it all out will help lift the weight. And it’s something you may want to share with the children later.
Nadine, thank you so much for this. Your words really landed—especially knowing you’ve been through something similar. I’ve already felt my friendships deepen in surprising ways this week, just by letting people in.
One day at a time, indeed. 💗 So grateful for your wisdom.
Sending all my love and prayers to sweet Dottie and your family. Difficult seasons are never easy, but this seems like it deserves a different title. No child, no Mother, no family should ever have to push through something so difficult. Yet, here you are continuing to spread love and joy in the middle of your storm. That in itself is inspiring.
I too find myself in a difficult season. Nothing that compares to your heartache, but in its own little way shows as a raging sea I must swim through. Throughout it, I have found a few things ease my anxiety and ground me:
My faith; not all believe, and that’s okay, but I find so much comfort in knowing that my story has already been written and that every hard time I face is a given opportunity to learn and become a better person. Knowing God has control over every situation and that He has given me that same power to overcome difficulty is very reassuring.
People; I only have a few I keep close, but they are everything. Knowing that I have people in my corner who would come without question is so comforting.
Painting/Crafting; This is one of my favorites because it always puts my mind at ease. It’s almost as if my mind is cut off from the world for a little while and I can breathe.
I know it seems far from it now, but you will be on the other side of this soon enough. That little heart will be so strong and spreading all the love and joy just as before. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s inspiring! Much love.
Kayla, thank you so much for this beautiful, thoughtful note. I can feel the strength of your faith, your love for your people, and the peace you find in creating. It’s such a gift that you shared it here.
I’ve also been finding a lot of comfort in crafting and creating lately—it’s such a calming way to feel grounded and present.
Sending you love right back for whatever season you’re navigating too. So grateful we get to connect in this space. 💛
I am so sorry to hear about sweet Dottie. In difficult times I have always leaned on my friends and family for support and guidance. I love you much and am here for you. Tell people what you need! Xoxoxo
Oh, sweet friend, i'm so sorry to hear this because I know your mother's heart has to be yearning to fix it for sweet Dottie. As you know, I'm walking through an incredibly difficult season right now with my husband's health and I use the term 'walking' loosely since i'm still hobbling on one foot. And that's how life kinda feels sometimes. When we can hardly stand, we have to run a marathon of endurance. You're already doing some of the things that have helped me through the years as we have had setback after setback with cancer reoccurring:
Flowers- I know you already have that handled with native bloom, but just having fresh flowers in my house lifts my mood. I got her subscription too!
Candles - specifically, the wood wick kind because I love to hear the crackle as I enjoy a seasonal scent in the air.
Music- i keep soft piano music, classical music or harp music playing softly in the background. It keeps me centered.
Alone time- to journal, reflect, connect with my thoughts and ask myself hard questions.
Learning a new skill.- as simple as it sounds, this has been a great stress reliever for me. I have to focus more intently to learn. I've picked up the ukulele, learned to knit, do hand lettering, and I'm currently trying cake decorating.
Purging- collecting a bag of something around my house every week and getting rid of it. It feels like something I can control when everything is so out of control.
Self-care- weekly massage at the spa, cocoon at creek retreat, a shampoo and style from Nick, a new outfit from resource.
People- i'm trying to avoid keeping myself isolated, because there's so much going on internally. I'm making it a point to have coffee with a friend or a glass of wine on the porch with a friend and just talk things out. It helps so much to talk about the problems I can't solve.
I have great faith, so making sure I am fostering that and focusing on whatever is good in life helps to distract me from all the bad things my brain would entertain me with. There's always something to be thankful for.
Please let me know if there's anything your family needs that I can do. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when going through a tough time, is help someone else through theirs. So don't hesitate to let me!
Oh my goodness - so much strength and wisdom in your words, Beth. Thank you for opening up and sharing. Truly a gift to learn what is working for you - especially as a caretaker. I’m going to play around with each of these over the coming months and see what works for me.
Sending so much love to you, our besties. When Mila was a newborn, Jeremy and I walked through a season of difficulty - it felt like we could barely lift our heads above the water before another wave hit - you know a lot of that story. One of the pieces of advice I was given early on was to decide: what story do you want to tell on the other side of this?
While so much was out of our control, that single question helped me focus on what was in my control - my attitude, my faith, my relentless belief that life would get better. I found myself making decisions through that lens, knowing that even though I had no idea of the outcome, I’d one day be able to tell the story from a place of strength, from a place of choice that I made decisions aligned with the story I wanted to walk, live, and survive during that challenging season.
This is so hard. We’re rooting for our Dottie girl, and her family, and the story you’ll be telling from this season one day ❤️
That tiny heart may need some help, but it was formed by the same deep love that built your beautiful family—your love, Greg’s love, the kind that lifts everyone lucky enough to feel it.
♥️ yes, she is going to be okay.
<3
On another note…one thing I love about visiting Serenbe is saying hello to all the shop dogs. I always try to pop in and give a pat and hello to Barley at Allchemy, Moses at Mr and Mrs Sharp, Georgia at the Bike Shop, and Finn at the General Store.
There’s something about shop dogs that just fills me with joy. Whether they’re curled up behind a counter, trotting around greeting customers, or simply napping in a sunny patch by the door, their presence adds a kind of warmth and soul that no decor ever could. They remind me to slow down, smile more, and appreciate the little things. A tail wag or a gentle nuzzle from a shop dog can turn an ordinary errand into a moment of happiness. I’m always grateful for the quiet comfort and cheer they bring.
I was so sad to hear that Finn passed. I’m touched that the community is coming together to honor this beloved dog. It says so much about the deep connection we share with our animals—and with one another. Dogs have a quiet way of becoming part of the fabric of our lives. To see that love reflected in a public service speaks volumes about the impact this special pup had. I deeply appreciate a community that recognizes and celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged companions. Another reason to LOVE Serenbe. :-)
Awwww! And I LOVE that you know all the shop dogs by name! 💞 come visit us again soon
I wanted to reach out to say how deeply sorry I am that your sweet baby girl has to go through this. I can only imagine how overwhelming and heavy this must feel.
I’m sure that so many people are holding you and your daughter in their hearts right now. I’m praying for steady hands for her surgical team, strength for you and your family, and a smooth, strong recovery for your little one.
A friend of ours came to town a while back when their young son had to undergo open heart surgery (they made the journey to our hospital because we have a renowned pediatric cardio thoracic surgeon.) It was such a difficult and emotional time for their whole family, and we were grateful to be able to stand by their side through it. Watching them walk through such uncertainty with strength and love was incredibly moving.
The best part is that their little guy pulled through beautifully. Today, you’d never even know he ever had a health issue—he’s thriving, full of energy, and just the sweetest kid. It’s a powerful reminder of how resilient children can be and how far love, support, and excellent care can go.
I shared your story with my friend, and she wanted me to let you know that she’d be happy to speak with you—whether you have questions, need reassurance, or just want to hear about her experience. She knows how hard this road can be and is more than willing to share her journey if it would be helpful to you. Just say the word, and I can connect you two.
Also, I am friends with this pediatric cardio thoracic surgeon, and if you haven’t already selected a surgeon, I would be happy to ask him who he recommends in the Atlanta area.
Sending you strength for each step ahead as you care for your precious girl.
Thank you so much for this kind and thoughtful note. It really touched me—I felt the care in every word.
We’re in a bit of a holding pattern right now, so I’m just taking things slowly. But I’ll definitely reach out if and when it feels like the right time to connect or explore options.
Just really grateful for you thinking of us.
I’m so sorry to hear about Dottie!! Parenthood is definitely the most challenging role of life, in my opinion.
Having a child with a serious health issue or chronic illness is like no other stress in the world. I know this first hand, and feel for you 💗
Definitely lean into your friend group, talking and allowing friends to support you will help you tremendously, and deepen those friendships in magical ways.
Since you’re a writer, you probably are journaling, but getting it all out will help lift the weight. And it’s something you may want to share with the children later.
One day at a time 💕
Nadine, thank you so much for this. Your words really landed—especially knowing you’ve been through something similar. I’ve already felt my friendships deepen in surprising ways this week, just by letting people in.
One day at a time, indeed. 💗 So grateful for your wisdom.
Sending all my love and prayers to sweet Dottie and your family. Difficult seasons are never easy, but this seems like it deserves a different title. No child, no Mother, no family should ever have to push through something so difficult. Yet, here you are continuing to spread love and joy in the middle of your storm. That in itself is inspiring.
I too find myself in a difficult season. Nothing that compares to your heartache, but in its own little way shows as a raging sea I must swim through. Throughout it, I have found a few things ease my anxiety and ground me:
My faith; not all believe, and that’s okay, but I find so much comfort in knowing that my story has already been written and that every hard time I face is a given opportunity to learn and become a better person. Knowing God has control over every situation and that He has given me that same power to overcome difficulty is very reassuring.
People; I only have a few I keep close, but they are everything. Knowing that I have people in my corner who would come without question is so comforting.
Painting/Crafting; This is one of my favorites because it always puts my mind at ease. It’s almost as if my mind is cut off from the world for a little while and I can breathe.
I know it seems far from it now, but you will be on the other side of this soon enough. That little heart will be so strong and spreading all the love and joy just as before. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s inspiring! Much love.
Kayla, thank you so much for this beautiful, thoughtful note. I can feel the strength of your faith, your love for your people, and the peace you find in creating. It’s such a gift that you shared it here.
I’ve also been finding a lot of comfort in crafting and creating lately—it’s such a calming way to feel grounded and present.
Sending you love right back for whatever season you’re navigating too. So grateful we get to connect in this space. 💛
I am so sorry to hear about sweet Dottie. In difficult times I have always leaned on my friends and family for support and guidance. I love you much and am here for you. Tell people what you need! Xoxoxo
Thank you Jill. I am with you- holding on close to them right now ♥️♥️♥️
Oh, sweet friend, i'm so sorry to hear this because I know your mother's heart has to be yearning to fix it for sweet Dottie. As you know, I'm walking through an incredibly difficult season right now with my husband's health and I use the term 'walking' loosely since i'm still hobbling on one foot. And that's how life kinda feels sometimes. When we can hardly stand, we have to run a marathon of endurance. You're already doing some of the things that have helped me through the years as we have had setback after setback with cancer reoccurring:
Flowers- I know you already have that handled with native bloom, but just having fresh flowers in my house lifts my mood. I got her subscription too!
Candles - specifically, the wood wick kind because I love to hear the crackle as I enjoy a seasonal scent in the air.
Music- i keep soft piano music, classical music or harp music playing softly in the background. It keeps me centered.
Alone time- to journal, reflect, connect with my thoughts and ask myself hard questions.
Learning a new skill.- as simple as it sounds, this has been a great stress reliever for me. I have to focus more intently to learn. I've picked up the ukulele, learned to knit, do hand lettering, and I'm currently trying cake decorating.
Purging- collecting a bag of something around my house every week and getting rid of it. It feels like something I can control when everything is so out of control.
Self-care- weekly massage at the spa, cocoon at creek retreat, a shampoo and style from Nick, a new outfit from resource.
People- i'm trying to avoid keeping myself isolated, because there's so much going on internally. I'm making it a point to have coffee with a friend or a glass of wine on the porch with a friend and just talk things out. It helps so much to talk about the problems I can't solve.
I have great faith, so making sure I am fostering that and focusing on whatever is good in life helps to distract me from all the bad things my brain would entertain me with. There's always something to be thankful for.
Please let me know if there's anything your family needs that I can do. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when going through a tough time, is help someone else through theirs. So don't hesitate to let me!
Oh my goodness - so much strength and wisdom in your words, Beth. Thank you for opening up and sharing. Truly a gift to learn what is working for you - especially as a caretaker. I’m going to play around with each of these over the coming months and see what works for me.
Sending so much love to you, our besties. When Mila was a newborn, Jeremy and I walked through a season of difficulty - it felt like we could barely lift our heads above the water before another wave hit - you know a lot of that story. One of the pieces of advice I was given early on was to decide: what story do you want to tell on the other side of this?
While so much was out of our control, that single question helped me focus on what was in my control - my attitude, my faith, my relentless belief that life would get better. I found myself making decisions through that lens, knowing that even though I had no idea of the outcome, I’d one day be able to tell the story from a place of strength, from a place of choice that I made decisions aligned with the story I wanted to walk, live, and survive during that challenging season.
This is so hard. We’re rooting for our Dottie girl, and her family, and the story you’ll be telling from this season one day ❤️
That is beautiful- I love that outlook 😘😘😘. We were just talking about how one day this will be a story.
Sending you and your family love. Thank you for being vulnerable and so authentically you.
Thank you 🙏- it felt surprisingly healing to share.