Recently I decided to update a few things with the blog. I realized that there have been some new readers join us on our journey of healing and I thought, “maybe I should share a little bit about myself” for the new readers.
So, here you go…here’s a little bit about me.
My name is Cathrine and I am the main author of the blog, Walking with Memphis.
I have been blogging since 2016. During the “start up year,” I kept tabs of our (the hubs and kids) encounters when we were out in public with Sam’s service dog, Memphis. I decided to create a space where people could learn about our journey.
In addition to blogging, I am a mom. In May of this year we welcomed our son, Edward Oliver James, to our family. I had an emergency c-section (not planned, but absolutely necessary) and four hospitalizations prior to giving birth. My mind and body are still recovering from that experience (pregnancy too, not just the birth). We also have two older children, Kirsten and Caden. They are phenomenal siblings and amazing kids (we are biased, but it is true)! They complete our family and fill our home with a lot of love.
To add to the family we have three furry “kids.” Prior to Memphis, Sam and I were dog owners of a pug-chihuahua mix and a King Charles Cavalier. When Memphis came in 2016, our dogs were nervous about this “big guy,” but they have all adjusted well (although sometimes the two little dogs get annoyed Memphis goes out and has all the fun).
One of my favorite things is to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning after getting the kids off to school. Most mornings, I have a little quiet time before the kids leave or before I have to get O to daycare. I savor that coffee. I do not like just “plain” coffee, rather, I love coffee with creamer and sugar. Sometimes it looks more like milk than coffee.
By day, I am a mom and wife and English professor. I teach writing. And no, most of the time I do not tell my students I blog. I love being in the classroom but there are days that I struggle. I love reading and I love learning. I consider myself a life long learner.
I am one half of the podcast duo for Dear Student. My dear friend and colleague, Corrine and I started thinking “we sure do have a lot of stories about teaching,” and BAM! One day we just decided to start talking about it–sharing information for students (and perhaps saying what other instructors might think or feel). You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud, and Google Play.
Military caregiver is a title that I did not know I had. Sam is a Veteran of the U.S. Army. He served for 12 years. Currently, he serves Veterans as a Peer Counselor at the VA. Sometimes he needs a gentle reminder to take meds, put something away, or turn off the stove. His memory sometimes gets him, but he does his best: reminders on Alexa, his phone, and me. I am his advocate at the VA and I want to make sure he receives the best possible care.
The college football and basketball seasons are very big deals in our home. We love sports, and even though a sporting event can be very demanding, we try to go to them when we can. Sam loves the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and the Duke Blue Devils…and well, I am learning to “like” them too.
I love coffee and sweet tea, Target, and British television. I would love to travel to Canada and Europe (again).
So, there you have it. A little bit about me, some of my favorite people and things. I am so glad you are here with us on our journey.