Super Kraut

My dad is really good at cleverly making jokes with words. Some people may call these jokes "puns", but I think his skill rises to a more artistic level. Even at the young age of seven, he was clever enough and cheeky enough to make a pun using his knowledge of both English and Cajun French.

Now there's just one thing that you need to understand about Cajun French. The word "crotte" means "turd." It rhymes with "caught."  If you remember crotte, you'll understand this story.

There was a traveling salesman that came door to door in Kaplan, Louisiana one summer. He was showing Alice, my mawmaw, some of his products when my seven year old dad came up to see what was going on.

My dad watched silently for a few minutes until the salesman showcased a long Slim Jim type thing with the words "Super Kraut" on it.

My dad leaned away expecting a swat, "Look mom a super crotte!"

Free Peaceful "Wallpapers"

I benefit from certain reminders. The reality of life is that I see my phone lock screen about 20 times a day at least, so, what a great place to remind myself to breathe, slow down, observe.

I enjoyed making these and I hope that you enjoy using them.

All photos were taken from Unsplash (an awesome website/app with free photography) and the text was added on an app called Over.

Free wallpaper, iPhone wallpaper, peaceful pictures

Loving Someone With Depression

Lack of control.

Confusion because one day he is the witty, teasing, calmly confidant person that I first knew and then the next day he cannot seem to speak. When he does, it is hollow and I know he is struggling with more than sadness. It seems to follow no pattern.

Stress because I know it is not my fault, but I feel that I am somehow making things worse.

Selfishness because it is exhausting.

Guilt because I wonder if he is even trying.

Compassion when I realize he is trying more than most.

Love because of the deep and personal conversations that happen. Love because of the service that is rendered by both of us. Love because I can see his goodness so clearly.

Learning because depression is more complicated than I once thought.

Growth because of the conversations and decisions that would not otherwise happen.

Trust because if I want peace, trust is my only option.

Realization that sometimes loving someone means giving them their space.

Acceptance that control is not a solution.

Hurt because it is hard to see someone you love so much hurting so badly.

Love.