I’ve done traditional talk therapy throughout my life. In my teens, my therapist Dr. John Sterling truly saved my life. If you’ve read my book, Puffy & Blue: The Chronicles of Nine Lives Together, you’ve already seen glimpses of those dark years. And while I was no longer drowning, I also wasn’t fully healed. From that place, I continued making decisions that led to more years of trauma.

So last year I decided it was time to go all the way to the beginning of my life and work chronologically through the trauma I have experienced using EMDR therapy.

It was long. It was hard. And it was life changing.

When I found Kimberly Schultz Counseling, all my instinct said she’s the one. And I am so glad I listened! Nine months of individual EMDR therapy and one Serenity Nature Retreat later, I feel transformed.

Kimberly has walked beside me through it all, shed a few tears with me, laughed a lot, and come through to the other side. She created a space that felt safe to explore the darkest parts of my life. Today I finished and I feel like a new person. The weight of yesterday has lifted off of my shoulders, and I can think clearly, feel the safety of my surroundings, and make wise decisions from here.

What Is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on talking through events, EMDR works with the brain’s natural healing processes.

During an EMDR session, a therapist guides you to recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. At first, it may seem unusual, but there is a powerful neurological reason behind it—it’s not woo woo, it’s grounded in real, measurable brain science.

The Science Behind It

Trauma can overwhelm the brain’s ability to process experiences properly. Instead of being stored as a normal memory, it becomes stuck, often fragmented and emotionally charged. The amygdala (the brain’s alarm system) stays activated, while the hippocampus (which helps organize memories) struggles to contextualize the event as something that is over.

EMDR appears to help unstick these memories.

Research suggests that bilateral stimulation mimics processes that occur during REM sleep—the stage of sleep associated with memory consolidation. This allows the brain to reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and helping them integrate into a more adaptive narrative.

In simpler terms, EMDR helps the brain file away what once felt unbearable. I was also able to access positive memories and empowering moments that had been buried so deep in the trauma that I had forgotten them.

One of the most important truths about trauma is that it isn’t just psychological—it’s physiological.

In The Body Keeps the Score, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk writes, “Traumatized people chronically feel unsafe inside their bodies.”

Safety isn’t just something you think. It’s something your body has to learn again. I told myself a million times that I was safe. I filled my brain with positive messages—you know the idea: garbage in, garbage out? I tried the opposite. I filled my brain with bright shiny happy inputs, and still, my body held onto the trauma with a death grip.

EMDR works at this deeper level, helping both the mind and body release what has been held onto—sometimes for years or decades, or even a lifetime.

It’s Not Easy Work

Let’s be honest: EMDR is hard.

You don’t bypass pain—you move through it. Sessions can feel intense. Emotions you thought were buried can rise quickly and vividly. There can be moments where it feels like you’re right back in the experience. There were times I was so exhausted after a session that I had to crawl into bed and surrender the day early.

Honestly, I considered searching YouTube for a shortcut, but I can attest that the guidance of a trained therapist is essential—you are revisiting these traumatic memories from a place of safety and control. And as the process unfolds, you begin to notice something remarkable—the emotional charge begins to fade. The memory remains, but it no longer has the same power.

Why It’s Worth It

On the other side of EMDR, I feel a sense of relief that I never imagined was possible. Triggers lost their grip. Old patterns soften. The constant background tension quieted. Anxiety subsided.

EMDR is not about erasing the past. It’s about changing your relationship to it.

You begin to feel something that trauma may have taken away: freedom.

Freedom to respond instead of reacting.
Freedom to feel present in your own life.
Freedom to move forward without being pulled backward.

A Different Kind of Healing

Healing from trauma isn’t linear, and it isn’t always gentle. But it is possible.

EMDR offers a path that goes beyond coping—it offers transformation at the level where trauma lives. And while the journey may be challenging, it is deeply, profoundly worth it.

Because you are not meant to carry the past forever.

I am deeply grateful to have left the trauma of my past in a place safe enough to finally let it go—Kimberly Schultz Counseling.

Related Wellness Posts

Your Future Self Starts Now – Kayla Fioravanti

Patient, Heal Thyself – Kayla Fioravanti

Patient, Advocate for Thyself – Kayla Fioravanti

My Turn for Regenerative Therapy  – Kayla Fioravanti

The post Healing Where Trauma Lives: My Journey Through EMDR appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

Alzheimer’s is partly genetic, but not purely. It’s a mix of genes + environment + aging. Since I share the same genetics and was exposed to many of the same environmental factors as my dad—and am blessed to have the opportunity to age—I set about improving my cognition. But first, I needed to see where I was on the Dementia Fast Scale. Admitting that my memory might really be declining was terrifying. 

I got tested by Dr. David Hutchings, the most respected geriatric neuropathologist and dementia expert in Tennessee. When I was taking over my dad’s care, everyone—from every organization—told me to get him in to see Dr. Hutchings. I cannot speak highly enough about how well he took care of my dad, so he was exactly who I wanted monitoring me.

If you’re not familiar with the Dementia Scale, here’s a quick overview:

The Dementia Fast Scale (Functional Assessment Staging Tool)

• Stage 1: Normal Aging
• Stage 2: Possible Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Stage 4: Mild Dementia
• Stage 5: Moderate Dementia
• Stages 6 & 7: Moderate to Severe Dementia (multiple subcategories)

For most people, signs of Alzheimer’s appear many years—often decades—before an official diagnosis. When my mom died in 2011, she was already worried about my dad’s memory. He was not diagnosed until summer 2022.

Research Shows the Common Timeline

15–25 years before diagnosis:
Changes start silently in the brain; amyloid plaques and tau tangles accumulate with no noticeable symptoms. This is preclinical Alzheimer’s.

5–10 years before diagnosis:
Very subtle changes appear, often dismissed as stress, aging, or being busy. This is the prodromal phase.

Signs include:

• Forgetting recent conversations but remembering later
• Needing more reminders
• Trouble multitasking
• Increased mental fatigue

1–3 years before diagnosis:
Symptoms become more consistent and noticeable. This stage is often diagnosed as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

Signs include:

• Repeating questions
• Word-finding difficulty
• Misplacing items frequently
• Trouble planning or organizing
• Loved ones start noticing changes

Diagnosis:
Memory loss and cognitive changes interfere with daily life, prompting people to seek help—often years after symptoms begin.

Key Points:

• By the time Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, the disease has usually been underway for 10–20+ years
• Early signs are subtle and easily overlooked
• Risk factors (genetics, brain injury, chronic stress, sleep disruption, environmental exposures) act long before symptoms
• Brain-healthy habits are most effective years before diagnosis, not after

Normal aging may include slower recall, but not loss of knowledge. Alzheimer’s shows progressive difficulty learning and retaining new information.

My Turning Point

I dared to have a cognitive test because I wanted to start now for the best future self possible. And to be honest, I was having significant memory issues I had been attributing to aging and stress. I didn’t want to ignore a potential problem until it was too late.

My Results:

• Over a year ago, my first test scored 2.6—over the midline of Possible Mild Cognitive Impairment, too close to Mild Cognitive Impairment for comfort.
• Six months later, I scored 2, which impressed Dr. Hutchings, but it wasn’t enough for me.
• This December, I scored 1.6. So much better—but I’m continuing the journey in search of a score of 1 or below. Dr. Hutchings gave me his blessing to continue, noting that reversing down the scale is not normal.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. I’m a researcher experimenting on myself—one human, myself. If you follow my breadcrumbs, know this is an experiment with no medical training. And yes, some, but not all, links are affiliate links. 

My Dementia Scale Reversing Methods

Sauna

There’s emerging evidence that regular sauna use might be associated with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, but the research is still limited and observational. So I ran out and bought myself a sauna. Call me crazy, but the results were impressive enough for me. I purchased a Sauna with red light therapy similar to this. 

A study by the University of Eastern Finland followed 2,300 middle-aged Finnish men for over 20 years. They found that men who used a sauna 4–7 times per week had a 66% lower risk of dementia and 65% 65% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared with men who used a sauna once a week. This was after accounting for factors like age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and alcohol use — meaning the association remained even when these were considered. And the Finnish Mobile Clinic Survey with nearly 14,000 men and women followed participants for almost 40 years. It reported that those with higher sauna frequency had a lower risk of dementia. 

The hypothesis is that Sauna bathing increases heart rate and blood flow, similar to moderate exercise. Because good cardiovascular health supports the brain (by delivering oxygen and nutrients), this may help protect against dementia risk. And inflammation is a contributor to Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Saunas are linked to lowered systemic inflammation and better vascular endothelial function. And still some researchers propose that heat exposure might increase expression of beneficial proteins like BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and heat shock proteins, which help protect brain cells from stress and damage. 

Supplements

My immediate focus of research was supplements. I quickly found many evidence-based supplements that show some promise for Alzheimer’s prevention or support. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Especially DHA & ALA): Omega-3s (found in fish oil) are linked with brain health and lower risk of cognitive decline in observational research. Higher dietary intake of omega-3s has been associated with better neurocognitive outcomes. 

Curcumin (Turmeric Component): Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can interfere with amyloid aggregation in laboratory studies. 

Resveratrol: Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in grapes and red wine, resveratrol has been studied for brain protective effects. 

Vitamin E: Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that could protect brain cells. Some studies suggest it might slow functional decline in Alzheimer’s at specific doses, though evidence is mixed and High-dose vitamin E should only be used under medical supervision due to safety concerns. I take 400 IU. 

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in brain health by supporting neurons, reducing inflammation, and protecting against oxidative stress—all factors involved in Alzheimer’s. Observational studies suggest that low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s, while adequate levels may help preserve memory and thinking skills. Maintaining sufficient vitamin D through safe sun exposure, diet, or supplementation may be a simple, supportive strategy for brain health, especially in older adults. I take 5000 IU Vitamin D with Vitamin K. 

B Vitamins have mixed research. Some early studies linked high intake with lower dementia risk, but clinical trials of B-vitamin supplements (B6, B12, folic acid) have not shown clear cognitive benefits for older adults with or without dementia. However, deficiencies in B12 or folate can negatively affect brain health, so correcting a deficiency with supplements can be important. 

Melatonin: Melatonin (2–5 mg) has been studied for improving sleep and mood in people with Alzheimer’s, which can indirectly impact overall quality of life. I am allergic to melatonin so this is not part of my regime, but preliminary research shows that it is promising for sleep and circadian rhythm support.

Mushroom Medicine

Lion’s Mane and other medicinal mushrooms are one of the more interesting areas of Alzheimer’s and dementia research right now—with promising mechanisms, some human data, but still early science.

Lion’s Mane is the most studied mushroom for brain health. Lion’s Mane contains hericenones and erinacines. These compounds can cross the blood–brain barrier, stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production which is crucial for neuron survival and synaptic plasticity. Animal research shows that Lion’s Mane improves memory and learning, reduced amyloid-beta plaque buildup, increased neurogenesis (new neuron growth), and reduces neuroinflammation. In human studies several small randomized trials showed improvements in cognitive scores after 8–16 weeks of Lion’s Mane. The benefits faded after stopping supplementation, suggesting it supports function rather than cures damage. Lion’s Mane also shows improvements in anxiety, depression, and focus—important because mood symptoms often appear early in dementia. 

I take these in Gaia Herbs Everyday Mushrooms Immune Support Mushroom Supplement for Daily Health Support to get in the Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, and Turkey Tail. I have also broken them down below. 

Reishi has strong anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, may reduce neuroinflammation, supports sleep and stress regulation (important dementia risk factors). It appears to be protective and supportive, not cognitive-enhancing.

Cordyceps improves mitochondrial function (energy production), supports oxygen utilization, may help mental fatigue and endurance.Indirect brain support through cellular energy, which is impaired early in Alzheimer’s.

Chaga is extremely high in antioxidants and may reduce oxidative stress (a major Alzheimer’s driver).

Turkey Tail has immune regulation and gut-brain axis support. Emerging evidence that gut health influences dementia risk. Turkey Tail has more systemic support than direct brain effects.

Food Pharmacy 

Your brain loves high protein and healthy fats. Clean Eating filled with whole real foods is essential to your brain health. While I do prepare almost all of the food that I consume, the grief of losing my dad has knocked me off some of the habits that helped me on my weight loss journey. But 2026 is the year to not only revive them but enhance my healthy habits to improve my brain health as well.

My food plan includes: 

Fatty Fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA & EPA)
• Supports neurons and synaptic connections
• May reduce inflammation and slow cognitive decline
• I’ve read such great things about sardines that I am kicking off 2026 with Dr. Boz’s 3 Day Sardine Diet. 

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, blackberries

• High in flavonoids and antioxidants
• Protect brain cells from oxidative stress
• Linked with improved memory and learning

Leafy Greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, Swiss chard

• Contain vitamins K, C, folate, beta-carotene
• Support neuronal function and myelin integrity
• Observational studies link higher intake to slower cognitive decline

Nuts and Seeds such as walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds

• Provide vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats
• Vitamin E protects against oxidative damage
• Nuts like walnuts may improve memory and executive function

Whole Grains such as oats, quinoa, brown rice, barley

• Provide steady glucose supply to the brain
• Support vascular health, which is crucial for cognition

Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, black beans

• High in B vitamins, protein, and fiber
• Support neurotransmitter production and healthy blood sugar

Eggs

• Contain choline, a precursor to acetylcholine
• Supports memory, focus, and synaptic signaling

Cruciferous Vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower

• High in sulforaphane and antioxidants
• Protect brain cells from toxins and inflammation

Dark Chocolate (70%+ cocoa)

• Rich in flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants
• Improves blood flow to the brain
• Can enhance memory, focus, and mood

Coffee and Tea

• Moderate caffeine intake enhances alertness and attention
• Polyphenols in tea and coffee combat oxidative stress
• Associated with reduced risk of cognitive decline

EMDR Therapy 

I have been doing EMDR therapy so that none of the nooks and crannies of my mind are weighed down with the scar tissue from the past. I know how the mind regresses with Alzheimer’s and I’d rather clean up the mess back there just in case. EMDR helps the brain by safely reprocessing traumatic memories, moving them from the overactive emotional centers (amygdala) to the rational prefrontal cortex. This reduces stress, calms fear responses, and promotes new neural connections, allowing the brain to “rewire” itself for emotional balance.

Aromatherapy, Memory, and the Brain

One of the most direct—and often overlooked—ways to influence the brain is through the olfactory system. Unlike other senses, scent bypasses much of the brain’s filtering and connects directly to the limbic system, which governs memory, emotion, and behavior. This is especially relevant in dementia and Alzheimer’s, where access to memory and emotional regulation becomes increasingly fragile. Because I live and work in the aromatherapy industry, essential oils are part of my everyday life.

Research suggests that certain essential oils may support cognition, mood, sleep, and agitation when used appropriately. Oils such as rosemary, lavender, lemon, and bergamot have been studied for their effects on alertness, calm, and behavioral symptoms associated with cognitive decline. Several clinical and care-home studies report improvements in agitation, sleep quality, and even short-term cognitive performance when structured aromatherapy protocols are used—particularly when stimulating oils are used during the day and calming oils at night.

From an aromatherapist’s perspective, this makes sense. Essential oil constituents are small, volatile molecules capable of rapid neurological interaction. While their effects are subtle, in stressed neurological systems even small shifts can meaningfully improve quality of life. I spent an afternoon at my dad’s memory care facility helping residents make aromatherapy inhalers. One woman was completely nonverbal, yet each time I offered an aroma, she responded with visible delight. We had a quiet, beautiful aromatic “conversation.”

Aromatherapy is not a cure, nor a replacement for medical care. But it is a low-risk, non-invasive tool that can support cognition, emotional regulation, and daily rhythm—benefiting both patients and caregivers. When combined with other interventions, it becomes part of a broader approach focused on dignity, responsiveness, and quality of life rather than decline alone.

Stem Cells

I had Regenerative Therapy for the first time in 2023, and it was life-changing for pain and inflammation. While I’ve felt physically amazing since then, I also began building my stem cell bank as a preventive measure. I had follow-up treatments in 2024 and 2025, and I plan to continue topping it off long into the future to support, protect, and modulate my brain’s environment.

Stem cell therapy is still experimental, but it shows real promise. Stem cells can reduce brain inflammation, and chronic inflammation is a major driver of Alzheimer’s progression. They release anti-inflammatory signals that calm overactive immune cells, reduce damaging chemicals, and shift the brain from a state of danger into a repair mode—slowing neuron damage in the process.

They also secrete neuroprotective growth factors, including BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), NGF (Nerve Growth Factor), and VEGF (which supports blood flow). These factors help neurons survive longer, strengthen synapses, and support memory circuits.

Alzheimer’s is driven by toxic protein buildup—amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Stem cells may enhance the brain’s ability to clear amyloid, improve microglial “cleanup” functions, and reduce the cascade leading to tau damage. They don’t erase plaques, but they can change the environment that allows damage to continue. Early memory loss is often due to synapse failure rather than neuron death, and stem cells can promote synapse repair, improve communication between neurons, and enhance plasticity.

Clinical trials are still small, but results are promising, and my own experience has been extremely positive. See if stem cells are right for you. As I shared earlier, my first cognitive assessment placed me at 2.6—well into the range of possible mild cognitive impairment and close enough to be a clear signal that intervention mattered. Six months later, that number dropped to 2.0, and by December it had moved again, down to 1.6. The direction of change is the point here. According to Dr. Hutchings, movement down this scale is not typical, which makes the result both encouraging and worth continuing.

Plans for 2026 and Beyond 

And I am continuing the work, with a target of 1.0 or below, simply to see how much further measurable change is possible. In 2026 I plan on getting another stem cell treatment and adding 3-Dimensional Exercise, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), and Therapeutic Plasma Exchange. 

3-Dimensional Exercise

Exercise is critical overall to health, but when it comes to neurological health 3-Dimensional exercise is next level. As I work to improve my score, I plan on putting significant focus into 3-Dimensional Exercise this year. 

3-Dimensional exercise involves movements that engage multiple planes of motion—forward/backward, side-to-side, and rotational—rather than just simple linear movements. Examples include twisting lunges, diagonal reaches, or multi-directional balance exercises. 3-Dimensional exercise boosts neuroplasticity because complex, multi-directional movements challenge the brain to coordinate muscles, balance, and spatial awareness, strengthening neural connections. It enhances coordination & cognition which stimulates motor, sensory, and cognitive networks simultaneously. And it improves blood flow and increased circulation supports nutrient delivery to neurons. 

In short, 3-Dimensional Exercise is like a brain workout in motion, combining physical and neurological training at the same time. Examples of 3-Dimensional Exercise include: ballroom dancing, Tai Chi, and a form of Boxing called Neuroboxing or cognitive boxing. 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

A hyperbaric chamber is a sealed, pressurized environment where a person breathes 100% oxygen at higher-than-normal atmospheric pressure. This is different from normal breathing because the pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve directly into the blood plasma, bypassing the limitations of hemoglobin. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers oxygen-rich blood to the brain, reduces inflammation, supports repair and neuroplasticity, and can improve cognitive function in certain neurological conditions. It’s a promising supportive therapy for brain health and recovery, though research for Alzheimer’s is still emerging. 

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange 

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) helps neurological health by removing harmful proteins and inflammatory molecules from the blood, reducing neuroinflammation, and supporting brain and nerve function.

Nicotine and Brain Health

Nicotine may sound surprising in Alzheimer’s research—but this isn’t about smoking. Studies suggest that low-dose, controlled nicotine can stimulate brain receptors involved in memory, attention, and learning, and may help reduce amyloid-beta toxicity and oxidative stress.

Small trials in older adults with mild cognitive impairment show potential benefits for focus, memory, and processing speed. Nicotine is not risk-free—it’s addictive and affects heart rate and blood pressure—so long-term safety for Alzheimer’s prevention isn’t established.

For now, it’s something I may explore further, alongside stem cells, sauna, supplements, and exercise as part of a comprehensive approach to cognitive health. 

Worth Every Penny

And yes, all of this is out-of-pocket, but after walking through Alzheimer’s with my dad, I know how priceless brain health is. I’m investing in quality of life in my later years, not just longevity. For my kids’ sake, I hope it all works and that I never get Alzheimer’s. I’m confident I’m not wasting my money—in my late 50’s, I’m healthier than I’ve ever been, and my quality of life has already improved. 

It is exciting to live in a time in history when so many holistic approaches are available—approaches that invite us to participate rather than passively comply. Small, intentional inputs—repeated consistently—can create meaningful shifts over time. You don’t need to adopt everything at once or subscribe to a single philosophy. Start where curiosity pulls you, observe what changes, and let your own data guide the next step.

If you’ve come across credible research, clinical observations, or measured outcomes—whether personal or professional—related to dementia, Alzheimer’s, or cognitive decline, I invite you to share them in the comments. Progress in this space rarely comes from a single breakthrough; it emerges from patterns, conversations, and careful attention to what’s moving the needle, even slightly. The more thoughtfully we exchange information, the better equipped we are to ask smarter questions and design better next steps.

Related Posts

Patient, Heal Thyself – Kayla Fioravanti

Patient, Advocate for Thyself – Kayla Fioravanti

My Turn for Regenerative Therapy  – Kayla Fioravanti

The post Your Future Self Starts Now appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

My mother was passionate about feeding people. She was an oil paint artist by profession and every dish was another form of her artistic expression reflected. She loved her family, yes—but she loved strangers too. No one, ever, was immune to an invitation to our family dinner table.

She picked up people on the street, invited them home for dinner. My childhood was marked by a parade of strangers at our family table: other world travelers separated from their families. An opera singer—she had stopped to listen to singing on the streets of downtown Munich. Nuns who seemed to appear out of nowhere. And all of them, every single one of them, found themselves at home at our family table.

And then there was my father. Always the most enthusiastic eater at the table. He loved my mother with his whole being, and he loved my mother’s food. He ate with joy, with gratitude, with openly expressed delight.

My mother wasn’t careless about what she made. She paid attention to ensure that her food fed the hearts and souls of everyone seated at her table. And she adapted her cooking through the years. When my father became a health food fanatic, she cooked healthy food. When he became vegetarian, she cooked vegetarian. When he became vegan, she cooked vegan. She changed the menu—but the love never changed and the flavor was always epic.

And every night, no matter what, we sat around the family table together. Whatever anger or rebellion the day had brought—was all set aside before we came to the table. We joined hands. We prayed. And then we were nourished, body and heart, by my mother’s food.

When I got older, she assigned me one night a week to cook for the family. One night that was mine. And I learned for myself—that food is more than food. Food is connection. Food is memory. Food is love expressed. I learned as her face lit up when my father hummed with joy at the first bite. I felt her pride when she shared my food to the delight of others. And in her final years, she loved handing her kitchen over to me—not only because she thought my food was better, but because she knew what it meant: she was being loved by me through her own love language.

When she was dying, she shared many final lessons with me, and of course, she wrapped a few in food. One afternoon, I was helping the hospice nurse bathe her. In true form, my mother turned the questions back to the nurse. “Are you married?” “Do you have kids?” “Pets?” “What are their names?” And then she asked, “What’s your favorite food?” She turned to me with a twinkle in her eye and said, “Kayla… know people. Really know people.” 

And I knew—if she had the option of living, she would have cooked that favorite food for the nurse. Because that was one of the ways that my mother made people feel seen. Known. Loved.

Later, she asked me for two last promises: “Don’t let your father become a hermit and continue feeding him.” She worried about him, about how he would carry on without her and who would feed him. So, I cooked. I cooked because she couldn’t. I cooked because she asked. And I cooked because grief is best wrested with in the kitchen. When I left after her funeral, the freezer was full, every inch of space crammed with meals—a love letter written in food to my father, from me and my mother.

And then came the past three years with my father as I walked with my dad through Alzheimer’s. The years when memory faded. But food—food always brought him back. Memories of Christmas returned when I baked my grandmother’s Kuchen. Family breakfast came alive when I made her banana bread for him. The past was vanishing from his mind, but in one taste—one bite—the doors opened again for a moment.

In the last month of his life, I found the salami we used to eat in Germany. Back then, my mother packed us picnic lunches for our road trips across Europe. Sandwiches with butter on brochen, fennel salami, and butterkase cheese. We’d stop along the road beside mountains, rivers, fields, castles—and ate together, the world spread out before us nourished by the food of my mothers hand.

So the weekend of my dads last outing, I packed a picnic. I asked him, “Do you want to eat in the park, or in my garden?” He chose my newly planted garden. I had baked sourdough to taste like brochen. I layered butter, salami, butterkase. And as he bit into it, he hummed with joy. And just like that— we were traveling again. Talking about road trips, picnic lunches, the simple beauty of being together.

Then he looked around my garden, the one I had just started planting in honor of him:

He asked, “I was just imagining walking through my garden. I would go boop, boop, boop. Were you alive when I had my garden?”
I replied, “I was. You had a lot of gardens, but this one here is inspired by your Whidbey Island garden.”
He asked, “Was that the one that I’d go boop, boop, boop walking down the paths?” 
I answered, “It was.”
He declared, “This is going to be a good garden.”

That was one of our last walks down memory lane together. Sparked by food. Food once packed by my mother’s hands, now packed by mine, as one of my final love offerings to my father.

He died 22 days later, and the garden has since bloomed. And I can confirm—it is indeed a good garden.

As I prepare food from its bounty, I remember both of my amazing parents through the love language of food taught to me by my mother. 

The post The Love Language of Food appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

Honoring Our Aromatic Heritage

The 2025 conference—Beyond Aromatics VI: Honoring our Aromatic Heritage: Ancient Wisdom Meets Contemporary Science—is scheduled for October 23–25 in Tampa, Florida. As a Registered Aromatherapist and Cosmetic Formulator I love the theme of this years conference because it blends time-honored aromatherapy practices with modern insights to elevate our field.

Learn from Experts and Elevate Your Craft

At NAHA conferences, you’ll have the opportunity to attend numerous presentations delivered by seasoned authors, educators, and aromatherapy professionals which offers a rare chance to absorb objective, research-backed insights from experts in our field.

In-Person Speakers include the NAHA Board of Directors, Salvatore Battaglia, Valerie Cooksley, Annette Davis, Cathy Skipper, Florian Birkmayer, Marian Reven, Dr. Jessie Cavanaugh, Bevin Claire, Madeleine Kerkhof, Raghda Abdelmaksoud, Dr. Cecile Ellert, Angela Sidlo, Jonathan Ross, Xiaoya Gao, Dr. DorothyBelle Poli, Paula Begel, and Darla Dunn.

Connect, Share, Grow

There’s a kind of synergy that happens when like minds convene. NAHA gatherings foster authentic connection—not just through presentations, but also at exhibitor booths, social mixers, and casual conversations at mealtime and in the hallway. Whether you’re seeking further education, collaboration, mentorship, or just camaraderie, the NAHA conference is fertile ground for nourishing professional bonds.

Build Community and Inspiration

I’ve developed long lasting connections at past conferences while being inspired by workshops, impromptu idea exchanges, and discovered new essential oils along the way. For me, it is the fellowship—the collective passion for aromatherapy—that stays with me long after the event ends.

Whether you’re a seasoned clinical aromatherapist, a massage therapist integrating aromatherapy, a wellness-focused enthusiast, or a curious student, this conference has something for you. It’s thoughtfully designed to meet you where you are in your journey

In Person and Digital Passes Available

The post Aromatherapy Enthusiast Should Attend the NAHA Beyond Aromatics VI Conference appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

You were my welcome mat to life, my home base, my touchstone, and my handrail. You steadied my balance, all the years of my life. 

Always present as my lighthouse in the storms, my guiding light to my next right step, and the anchor that steadied me. You taught me to stand upright in this world, to climb ever upwards, and to reach my hand behind to help the next person.

You planted me. Nurtured me. Grafted me with faith, hope, and perseverance. You moored me, steadied me, and lifted me up to stand strongly on my own two feet.

For as long as I live, I will grieve for you. Losing you will be part of my story from this day forward. This grief will spill out in tears and words until I reach my own finality.

But I don’t walk through this alone. We all carry it, in ways that are as unique as each of us. Some days we miss you loudly and other days we miss you quietly, but every day we miss you collectively.

We didn’t invite grief, but now that she has arrived, we will dance with her until the rhythm soothes our ache.

It all began with a sob the day of your diagnosis, and it has expanded these past few years as you faded away right in front of us. But now that we can no longer share air with you, the heaviest phase of grief has taken root from the base of our foundation and rises to fill the air all around us. We will breathe through the pain until grief eases into a familiar limp, as evidence of the burden of carrying a sorrow that will never fully heal.

Today, as we sit in the wake of your departure, grief is the last piece of you that we have left to hold onto. And while it is sharp and bitter at times, we will learn to honor the emotions left in your wake. Because, despite your absence, the world continues spinning and you would not want us to miss, even a moment, of the ride ahead. 

Grief has arrived. She has a seat at the table, but she does not get to suck up all the air in the room. She is a familiar guest and so I am prepared to remind her that in this family, we live on. We love boldly, we embrace both helloes and goodbyes.

We grieve, but we do not drown. We pause, but we do not stop. We embrace grief, ease into the familiar path, because in this family, grief and joy coexist softly.

The space that you once occupied feels hollow right now, but, with time, we will learn to embrace the echo of you that reverberates between us. We will endure a lifetime of missing you with open arms, because that is the price of having been yours.

The world feels surreal as we stand beside the void in your wake. The aroma of grief colors everything right now. Since you left, even the shape of the air we breathe feels different. The colors are louder. The taste of grief lingers from this day to the next and weeps into tomorrow. Grief is not just one color. It is not one dimensional. It is vast, deep, and wide. It is an entire spectrum and once she arrived, she erased the finish line.

Our memories are charred from the fire of grief. But we will cling to them anyway, because they are laced to you. Our shared memories are the thread that will continue to stitch you into our tomorrows.

We love you in this breath, and in the next. Our love for you will always remain in the present tense. We will meet you at the horizons of all our tomorrows.

Our grief is deep because it is the counterpart to our great love.

Our loss is not unique, but you, our beloved, were exceptional, and so we will join the parade of the grieving as we carry forward the spark you left in all of us.

For now, we have parted ways on earth—you went willingly, but we will always remain connected. Our souls will, forever, walk together.

And now that we have walked you to heaven’s door, where I imagine mom has been impatiently waiting, worried that you may have gotten lost along the way, we are tasked with the awkward walk back to earth without you.

But in our lives bravery was never optional. And so, even as our souls tremble, we will carry on with the bravery that will be learned from walking in your giant footsteps.

We are living breathing monuments to the fraction of time in which you and mom once walked this earth. We will begin to archive and bookmark the best of our days spent walking beside you.

Your souls have left imprints on us that will reflect you, in us, as living breathing continuations of your stories.

You, being among the living, may be in the past tense, but in me, in us, you will always live in the present tense. You will show up in different ways now, but always adjacent and familiar to the rituals and habits that your influence engraved in each of us.

You will show up in the parts of us that were molded by you. In our delightful response to a tasty meal. In an escaped snort in a fit of laughter. In the melody of grandpa’s music. And in the twinkle of our eyes when your humor tickles us as it runs across our memories, naked and unashamed. And especially in a cleansing breath when we slow down to appreciate and meditate for a moment in your memory.

The legacy of your “can do” spirit will show up in us every time we bravely face hardship. Your life will echo in the sounds of our footfalls whispering, wunderbar, wunderbar, isn’t this wonderful!

And, if you could speak today, you would say, “A family that grieves together, stays together.”

And so, that becomes that, just as you wished.

The post A Family that Mourns Together, Stays Together appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

Today I sensed we have stepped onto the path of goodbye
And you are swiftly walking me to my car.
This is familiar ground.
This sacred ground here
At the veil between this life and heaven.
I feel oddly comforted
Because I know you want to be here,
Even as I long to be in our yesterdays.
On this path,
I know your heart will soon be beating
“Wunderbar, Wunderbar, isn’t this wonderful!”
And I must concede, that I know, for you, it truly is.
Two things can be true at the same time.
You will be free.
For me I sense the snapping of my deepest root.
I am unmoored as I begin to let go of you into the void.
April 11, 2025

We have shared everything from tough love, joyful love, and forgiving love shared in both directions. He has guided me through life since the beginning. He taught me resilience through example. He showed me how to walk through life with dignity and grace. He exemplified how to battle fears head on. He taught me how to bargain on the streets of Italy, how to persevere on the mountain’s edge, how to swim under the hot Texas sun, how to drive, and everything in between. My hero is exiting.

I’m sitting in the heavy right now. My body already knows. I have to force my body to lift off the bed and out, rather than be smothered by the overwhelming numbness pressing down on me. I must will my body to move forward.
April 20

Our Final Act

In our final act we respect your wishes.
We will use all the love you instilled in us
To give you the kind of send off that you desire.
One that is quiet, peaceful, and allows you to take a solitary walk towards heaven.
And as our final act of love
We will live like you want us to
Living on without you, making you proud,
Keeping every lesson that you taught us in action,
And excelling to be the best versions of ourselves.
As my final act of love,
I’m letting you go because you are ready,
I acknowledge that I may never be fully prepared
To live in a world vacant of you,
But I must dig down deep to live as an echo of you.
April 23

There is not a lot of conversation to be had anymore.
But the conversations we’ve had could fill volumes.
My entire lifetime fits into a segment of your life.
And it has been the honor of a my lifetime to walk with you
These past few years on your way home.
Our lifetime of conversation will stick with me.
The majority of those conversations were as
We walked in line climbing upwards towards a new adventure.
The crunch of underbrush plays an accompaniment to our trail conversations.

Everything I could hold on to has fallen from my fingertips.
There is nothing but goodbye left to say but goodbye.
And each time I say goodbye to you I am fully aware
That we may never share air again.

For you, Alzheimer’s became a prison cell,
And I know you have been petitioning for a reprieve.
April 27

I’ve been living in the shadows with him.
But laughter is our language
So we laughed in the shadows at the darkness all around us.
And tough love has always been our love language,
Sometimes our love may look tough
Especially as I give you the space you want
Even when all I want to do is hover.
It’s tough. But it’s love.
I will miss you in quiet and loud ways.
In small and big ways.
From my foundation to the air all around me.
April 28

He is dying of a terminal case of life. Today he practiced dying, because he wants to do all things well. He said, “After you leave I’m just going to lay back like this [he demonstrated]
And then poof, that will be that.
April 29

I will miss you in all the small ways that you navigated this world and all the big ways that you shaped me.
April 30

He pushed himself physically, spiritually, and mentally to be a better man, live strong, and at peace with himself in the world. He pushed me to do better, be better, strive harder, and to push past fear. He overcame his family history, his addiction, and his fears. He inspired me as a child when I witnessed him crawling on his hands and knees with fear escaping in groans as he moved inch by inch across a shale path far above the heights that he feared.

He inspired me by keeping his promises, living upright and dignified. His disappointment was my biggest fear and even though I broke his heart in big ways he loved me unconditionally. He stepped into the gap to demonstrate to my son how to be a man. He showed my daughters what a good man looks like.

He showed me the tough love that I needed to learn to live in this world with the heart of a poet, the mind of a scientist, and a rebellious spirit that landed me in a life full of hard lessons.

We’ve walked through the lowest of moments together. We had our hearts shattered and found new ways to walk amidst the void. He’s been my nurse through sickness and injury. And I’ve walked beside him through this long goodbye.

He fought monsters for me, stood up for what he believed in, and lived his lessons out loud. He taught me to turn to nature for medicine and escape. He literally inspired my entire career path in his pursuit of health, fitness, and wellness.

He sat on the sideline and cheered for me through every sport, every terrible note of music I played or sang, and through every academic setting. His joy was not in my performance but in my effort, in me showing up whether I failed or succeeded.

Because he believed in me, I believed I could do anything, still do. I lived with the expectation of pushing myself and excelling.

When I needed to live with the natural consequences of my choices, he held firm. He could be stubborn like that, and it was exactly what I needed. But when he lost the love of his life he knew it was safe to come live near me to regain his footing. There he rebuilt and moved away. And when the diagnosis came for him, he came to be with me.

I will be, always and forever, daddy’s girl even when he is gone.
May 2

He’s been inspiring all the way to the very end.
May 3

Obeying my dad’s wishes and flying away without knowing if we will share air ever again is one of the hardest steps of obedience I’ve ever taken. My respect runs deep and so I’m going anyway. Despite the tugs at my heart, honoring him was to leave anyway.

What I can’t speak past the knot in my throat, I will write out of me.

My brother and I are now the living breathing monument to how our parents once walked upon this earth. Bits of their souls have left imprints on us that will always shine. We are all the living breathing continuation of their lives.
May 4

I got the call that I was expecting. He laid back, poof, and that will be that.
May 5

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Ebey’s Reserve, the wildlife reserve he loved so dearly that he and my mom chose a gravesite that overlooked it. His obituary can be found here.

The post And That Will Be That :: In Memory of My Dad appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

Puffy & Blue: The Chronical of Nine Lives Together, Nine lives are never enough to spend with a four-legged best friend. Puffy & Blue chronicles the uplifting true story of the deep friendship between a cat and her girl. Their inspiring companionship overcomes the upheaval of growing up in three countries. Their adventure brings laughter and tears mixed generously with hope and loyalty. Puffy & Blue is purr-fect for fans of Dewey: The Small Town Cat Who Touched the World, Homer’s Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, and Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog. Experience this unforgettable journey spanning three continents and twenty-one years.

360 Degrees of Grief is a Selah Press Anthology filled with stories, poetry and songs. Sixty-four authors contributed transparent stories written with open hearts reflecting hope to the reader. These authors have lived through the complete spectrum of life—from ecstatic joy to the darkest grief—and share the lessons they learned along the journey.

The Unspoken Truth About Essential Oils: Lessons Learned, Wisdom Gained is a story that may leave y9ou questioning everything you thought you knew about essential oils, followed by the ansers you to need to continue using them safely. This book will take you upon a journey that may shock you and cause disbelief, however the fact remains that this is a true story. It is the truth that some essential oil corporations want to hide from you. In this book Stacey takes you along on her raw and real journey that is eye-opening for the reader. She will reveal the unspoken truth about essential oils so that you can learn the lessons learned from her experience. Her story is not unique and can happen to anyone, at any time. You will want to read this truth to prevent harming yourself, or anyone you love. Stacey’s true story is followed by an Adverse Reaction Report by Robert Tisserand and Conclusions by Martin Watt, both of which will help you understand what went wrong for Stacey. Certified aromatherapist, Kayla Fioravanti, will help you gain wisdom by guiding you through what the industry experts advise for safe use of essential oils for a lifetime of wellness.

The, Art, Science and Business of Aromatherapy is a complete guide to aromatherapy written by an industry insider, Kayla Fioravanti. It is packed with uncommon essential oil information that makes this book a must have for essential oil enthusiasts, candle makers, soap makers and cosmetic manufacturers of any level or experience. Inside, you will find something for everyone, whether you have just discovered aromatherapy or have been in the industry for years. Kayla discovered aromatherapy in 1998 and has been in the aromatherapy industry as an aromatherapist, supplier, educator, speaker, cosmetic formulator, student and author ever since. Kayla has been an outspoken advocate for small businesses, for the safe use of essential oils and for honest practices within the industry. The Art, Science and Business of Aromatherapy is a research driven—fluff-free—resource, vital to an aromatherapy education. This second edition bolsters the business of aromatherapy section, updates critical industry information, expands further into the modern history of aromatherapy, provides updated essential oil safety information, broadens the anatomy and physiology information and so much more. This book was written for anyone who needs to increase their knowledge of fine art, in depth chemistry and the business foundations of aromatherapy. Kayla loves to research complex problems, dissect the information to its smallest component and then write it to her readers in every day, understandable English. Her easy-peasy style makes learning fun.

How to Self-Publish: A Guide for Author-Preneurs empowers do-it-yourself authors with the best
writing advice and self-publishing expertise from two authors who have 40+years of combined
experience in writing, editing, and publishing. Their knowledge and practical tips will help you:

• Compare publishing options
• Expand your social media presence
• Discover what to expect in editing (it’s more than grammar!)
• Understand cover design best practices
• Decide what print-on-demand services you may want to use

A Little Handbook about Topical CBD: A Revolutionary Ingredient for the Skincare World, When author Kayla Fioravanti discovered hemp CBD—it changed her world and health! As a cosmetic formulator, with decades in the natural industry, she views hemp CBD as the topical ingredient that can change the skincare industry. A Little Handbook about Hemp CBD introduces anyone interested in using topical hemp CBD, makers of skincare products, and those already in the Cannabis industry to the potential of some nearly miraculous plant medicine. Inside you will find the skinny on Information about the safety of hemp CBD The basics of the hemp plant A rundown about cannabidiol & the endocannabinoid system Beyond skin deep information about topical CBD And an introduction to FDA and labeling regulations Within the pages of A Little Handbook about Hemp CBD consumers and makers alike will find valuable insight into the mighty hemp plant. You just might find yourself compelled to slather yourself head to toe in hemp CBD products or even inspired to join the hemp revolution.

A Little Handbook about Addiction: and the Future of Recovery That Could Include Cannabis, Addiction. Substance Abuse Disorder. Substance abuse disorder (SUD). In recovery. Substance-free. Alcohol and drug disorder. Chemical dependency. By any name we call it—addiction hurts. It destroys the person and their loved ones. Authors Kayla Fioravanti and Keegan Fioravanti open up about their own stories of substance abuse and share some promising research on using CBD to support quitting an addictive substance. A Little Handbook About Addiction and the Future of Recovery That Could Include Cannabis discusses: Understanding Addiction Cannabidiol + the Endocannabinoid System Alcohol Addiction Nicotine Addiction Opioid Addiction Marijuana Addiction Cocaine Addiction Meth Addiction Caffeine Addiction Pain Management Mental Health It is time to remove the stigma that surrounds the conversation of substance abuse, and the fear of the stigma. It is time to stop being ashamed of becoming addicted to an addictive substance. This book is designed to start the conversation about addiction and substance abuse and how hemp CBD may play a role in the future of treatment options.

Since I am brand new to Audible I would greatly appreciate reviews of these books!

The post Find Me on Audible Audiobooks appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

I picked up the flavor of Nutella in the Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup, so I came up with my recipe with it in the mix.

Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup Recipe
4 tbsp Pistachio Paste
2 tbsp Tahini
3/4 cup Nutella
3/4 cup Heavy Cream
3/4 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tbsp Powdered Sugar
1-2 cups Kataifi Pastry

Directions 

1. Wash, pat dry, and cut your strawberries

2. Make whipped cream using the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Or use 3/4 to 1 cup of already made whipped cream. 

For best results to make Whipped Cream:

• Chill the Equipment: Place your mixing bowl and whisk or beaters in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before making whipped cream.
• Pour the Cream: Pour the chilled heavy cream into the chilled mixing bowl.
• Whip the Cream: Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a whisk, beat the cream on medium speed. Start slowly to prevent splattering, then gradually increase the speed.
• Add Sugar and Vanilla: As the cream begins to thicken, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using). Continue whipping until soft peaks form. Soft peaks mean the cream will gently fall back when the beaters are lifted.

3. Mix pistachio paste, tahini, Nutella together and then fold in whipped cream.

4. The Kataifi Pastry is key to the crunch. You may like it super crunchy or lightly crunchy. Start by mixing 1 cup of Kataifi Pastry, taste, and add more as desired. Or reserved extra to sprinkle on top. 

5. Layer strawberries and paste mixture and serve. You can serve as is, with a side of ice cream, or with a side of whipped cream.

I like my chocolate chip cookies crunchy. If you like fluffy chocolate chip cookies you can swap the brown sugar and white sugar quantities or add the pistachio paste and Kataifi Pastry to your own favorite recipe.

Dubai Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
1/2 lb. Butter
1 cup Brown Sugar
3/4 cup White Sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
11.5 oz Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Premium Baking Chips or Guittard Milk Chocolate Baking Chips
1/2 cup (optional) Ghirardelli White Chocolate Chips
1/3 cup Kataifi Pastry
1/3 cup Pistachio Paste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 F, grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix room temperature butter, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla and mix well.
4. Sift dry ingredients together and mix into batter. Add chocolate chips. White chocolate is often mixed into pistachio paste to make pistachio cream. For a more authentic Dubai Chocolate flavor add white chocolate chips as well.
5. Separately mix Kataifi Pastry and Pistachio Paste together.
6. I stuffed the Kataifi Pastery and Pistachio Paste into the center of my cookies, but it would also work to swirl the mixture into your batter.
7. Bake for 8 minutes on the middle rack, turn the tray for even cooking, and continue to bake for 4-6 minutes depending on how crisp you like your cookies. Remove from the oven when they look just right to you.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for up to 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack or parchment paper to cool.

The post Adventures in Dubai Chocolate appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

For a season I lived in the world Pastor Tom helped create. Our lives centered around the church, school, and mission that he helped build. We did life with the families he brought together. The church he ministered to became my family, my home, and the safe space that my children grew. I rejoice in the experience of having lived in the community that Pastor Tom shepherded. I will be forever blessed to have experienced the unique and precious microcosm of Crossroads.

Pastor Tom ministered with his whole life. He had a twinkle in his eye for everyone. He served in real practical ways. And he made himself at home in my life. We often prayed in my home around the kitchen table that he refinished himself during one of his many extended stays.

He spoke with his hands, wore a consistent grin, had a story at the ready, and carried himself with a steadiness that was always reassuring. He lead Bible study in my home and others, mission trips to India, a faithful congregation, strangers in crisis, and his family.

He grieved the loss of his wife Esther out loud and publicly in a way that made it feel safe to express my own suppressed grief. He contributed to my book 360 Degrees of Grief and often shared what I wrote about his wife Esther.

Together we traveled half way around the world, experienced Ayurvedic treatments, sang and rejoiced while ministering to orphans and the abandoned. And around the world he left behind countless others who continue to be equipped to serve in his footsteps.

He was a giant in our lives. We broke bread across the world, in my home, and at the Applebee’s that served as his personal dining room. We laughed easily and often together.

When my heart was breaking, Pastor Tom was there. When I wrestled with life, Pastor Tom was there. When I rejoiced, Pastor Tom was there. When I drove away from my home in Portland it was with a fresh Pastor Tom bunny drawn on my hand and tears in my eyes.

He acknowledged seeing the edges of what no one else dared to speak of happening in my home. He assured me that I was not crazy. He gently pried back the protective armor I encased myself in and applied a healing balm of understanding and knowing.

He prayed over the phone with me while I absorbed the news of my mother’s imminent death. He loved and ministered to my kids well. He proudly accepted the fur covered clothes that came with the adoring affection of my animals.

I am assured that he is dancing in the very heaven he dreamed of beside his beloved Esther. He didn’t fear heaven, he revealed in it. I’m certain the gates of heaven were crowded with the eager hands of all those that he ministered to throughout their lives and at their death beds and his loved one who proceeded him on the journey. In my minds eye he has his arms open wide, pen in hand, and his smile is permanently glowing.

Pastor Tom adopted all ways of communication with open arms and avidly shared on Facebook. His last post just a few days before a catastrophic brain stem bleed became his exit route to heaven he reshared a Facebook memory:

While looking through some cute pictures of my great-grandson from a few years back I was reminded of a great passage of scripture I was re-reading recently from Proverbs 3:21-26: The Message

It is particularly applicable today with so much frenzied worrisome and frustrating communication coming at us from many directions:

‘Dear friend, Guard clear thinking and common sense with your life; don’t for a minute lose sight of them. They’ll keep your soul alive and well, they’ll keep you fit and attractive. You’ll travel safely, you’ll neither tire nor trip. YOU’LL TAKE AFTERNOON NAPS WITHOUT A WORRY, YOU’LL ENJOY A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP. No need to panic over alarms or surprises, or predictions that doom’s day is just around the corner, because God will be right there with you and he’ll keep you safe and sound.’

AMEN AND AMEN!!!

A Pastor Tom bunny will forever be tattooed on my heart.

The post Farewell, Good and Faithful Servant :: In Memory of Pastor Tom appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.

I am a fan of you, unapologetically. Being your mother gave more purpose to my life than I ever imagined. The joy of us being tethered forever feeds my soul.

We are tethered by DNA, shared traits, and by your fetal cells that remain in me, and my material cells still in you. These traveling cells that we exchanged remain embedded in each of us, but even more so, we are tethered by the shared choice of doing life together.

If I am a fan girl of anyone, it is you and your people. I am unapologetically your biggest fan, a groupie even.

Your lives gave me purpose. You filled my tank even in the hard years of parenting. You made my shadow worth casting to protect you.

When you are succeeding, I am on the sidelines cheering. When you are struggling, I am on my knees praying. When you are stumbling, my first aid kit is at the ready. And when you rest, I feel restful.

In parenting, I made mistakes, I contributed to your wounding, And I am forever grateful for the grace and understanding that has allowed us to remain tethered even today.

Whatever the future holds, wherever I am there is always a place for you.

I am a fan of you, always have been, always will be, always unapologetically.

© Kayla Fioravanti

The post I am a Fan of You, Unapologetically appeared first on Kayla Fioravanti.