Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # DarynKagan.com Home of "Call Me Friend" podcast ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://darynkagan.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Ep 23: A Life-Changing Phone Call, Fostering & Fatherhood: Darren Graham’s Journey to Becoming a Single Dad](https://darynkagan.com/ep-23-a-life-changing-phone-call-fostering-fatherhood-darren-grahams-journey-to-becoming-a-single-dad/) - He thought the call was spam. Hours later, he was standing in a hospital NICU meeting a two-pound baby fighting for his life. Adoption, fatherhood, healing, and the power of intentional love are at the heart of this emotional episode of Call Me Friend. Host Daryn Kagan connects with content creator, writer, and single father - [Ep 25: Alisyn Camerota on Loss, Love & Starting Over The Moment Everything Changed](https://darynkagan.com/alisyn-camerota-on-loss-love-starting-over-the-moment-everything-changed/) - Grief, loss, career reinvention, and starting over after tragedy take center stage in this powerful conversation with journalist and author Alisyn Camerota. When life changes in an instant, how do you rebuild, find purpose, and move forward? In this emotional episode of Call Me Friend, Daryn Kagan sits down with Alisyn to unpack what it - [Ep 24: Training the Competition: NFL Reporter Laura Okmin on Why She Trains Other Women to Take Her Job](https://darynkagan.com/ep-24-training-the-competition-nfl-reporter-laura-okmin-on-why-she-trains-other-women-to-take-her-job/) - What happens when you achieve everything… But still feel empty? On Call Me Friend, Daryn Kagan reconnects with longtime friend and NFL sideline reporter Laura Okmin to explore career burnout, finding purpose, and building real confidence. Named to Sports Illustrated’s list of the most powerful, influential, and outstanding women in sports today, Laura is recognized - [Ep 22: How a Single Cookie & Three Cancer Battles Created Purpose for a Mother & Daughter](https://darynkagan.com/ep-22-how-a-single-cookie-three-cancer-battles-created-purpose-for-a-mother-daughter/) - When life delivers unthinkable loss, what happens next can change everything. Cancer survival, grief and healing, a mother-daughter business, resilience after loss, and turning pain into purpose and connection are all discussed on this episode of Call Me Friend, featuring Laura Stachler and her daughter Susan Stachler. This is an inside-out story of grief, resilience, - [Ep 21: Mary Kay Andrews on Grief, Aging Boldly, and Speaking Without Apology](https://darynkagan.com/ep-21-mary-kay-andrews-on-grief-aging-boldly-and-speaking-without-apology/) - Reinvention after 70 is not about starting over, it’s about evolving with clarity and courage. On Call Me Friend, Daryn Kagan calls bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews for a raw, honest conversation about aging boldly, personal loss, career pivots, and finally saying what matters most. Mary Kay shares how she transitioned from newspaper journalism to - [Ep 20: Done Being Single? Late Bloomers Are Finding Love](https://darynkagan.com/ep-20-done-being-single-late-bloomers-are-finding-love/) - Dating after 40 and being single can feel exhausting in modern dating culture. On Call Me Friend, Daryn Kagan talks with dating coach Treva Brandon Scharf about dating burnout and finding love later in life without losing yourself. Treva shares her late-bloomer love story, why being single does not mean something is wrong with you, - [Ep 19: He Lost His Job & His Wife. Singing for Hospice Families Helped Him Rebuild His Life](https://darynkagan.com/ep-19-he-lost-his-job-his-wife-singing-for-hospice-families-helped-him-rebuild-his-life/) - What happens when life knocks you down and you choose service instead of fear? Host Daryn Kagan sits down with hospice singer Kevin Dunn, a man whose life changed forever after losing his job, hearing a calling to serve, and spending over 23 years singing for patients at a hospice in West Georgia. What started - [Ep 18: From Addiction to Fatherhood: The Second Chance That Changed Everything](https://darynkagan.com/ep-18-from-addiction-to-fatherhood-the-second-chance-that-changed-everything/) - Second chances change lives. In this deeply moving episode of Call Me Friend, host Daryn Kagan pulls back the curtain on a moment few people ever see: a surprise grant award that changes everything. What begins as a routine follow-up interview turns into a life-altering moment for Jimmy Erickson, a father, student, and recovering addict - [Ep 17: Behind the Savannah Bananas: Co-Founder Emily Cole on Family, Foster Care, and the Conversation That Changed Everything](https://darynkagan.com/ep-17-behind-the-savannah-bananas-co-founder-emily-cole-on-family-foster-care-and-the-conversation-that-changed-everything/) - What if the most heart hitting story connected to the Savannah Bananas had nothing to do with baseball, trick plays, or viral hijinks, but everything to do with family and purpose? In this friendship podcast conversation, Daryn sits down with co-owner Emily Cole to uncover the behind the scenes truth that shaped the Savannah Bananas - [Ep 16: Love, Personal Loss, and 9/11: Former CNN Anchor Carol Lin's Story the Network Never Showed You](https://darynkagan.com/ep-16-love-personal-loss-and-9-11-former-cnn-anchor-carol-lins-story-the-network-never-showed-you/) - When the world stopped on 9/11, millions saw Carol Lin on their screens… but no one saw what she was surviving off camera. In this gripping Call Me Friend conversation, Daryn reconnects with her former CNN colleague to uncover the truth behind Carol’s marriage, motherhood, identity, grief, and the hidden story behind her memoir, When - [Ep 15: Never Too Late To Find Your Best Friend: The Traveling Nanas at 81 Travel the World in 80 Days](https://darynkagan.com/ep-15-never-too-late-to-find-your-best-friend-the-traveling-nanas-at-81-travel-the-world-in-80-days/) - What if the friend who transforms your entire life does not show up until your sixties? Two women share a life changing friendship that leads to an 80 day trip at 81. In this inspiring episode of Call Me Friend, Daryn sits down with Ellie Hamby and Dr. Sandy Hazelip, the viral duo known as - [Ep 14: Driving Route 66 to Hope: How One "Crazy" Man, a Vintage Chevy, and ShelterBox Are Changing Lives](https://darynkagan.com/driving-route-66-to-hope-how-one-crazy-man-a-vintage-chevy-and-shelterbox-are-changing-lives/) - A 70-year-old humanitarian, a 1953 Chevy truck, and Route 66 unite for ShelterBox. Don Crost drives 2,500 miles to spotlight disaster relief, friendship, and doing good, proving it is never too late to chase a purpose. Join Daryn as Don shares why he set a $25,000 goal for ShelterBox’s 25th anniversary, how that vintage truck - [Ep 13: CNN's John King Living with MS, The Magic Wall & Media's Biggest Mistake](https://darynkagan.com/ep-13-cnns-john-king-living-with-ms-the-magic-wall-medias-biggest-mistake/) - CNN’s John King, famous for election night coverage at the Magic Wall, opens up about living with multiple sclerosis, how MS shapes his daily life, and why hope and healing keep him going. CNN’s John King is known worldwide for guiding viewers through presidential elections on CNN with the Magic Wall. But behind the political - [Ep 12: Author Kristin Harmel on losing identity, finding her voice again, and the life behind her latest bestseller](https://darynkagan.com/ep-12-author-kristin-harmel-on-losing-identity-finding-her-voice-again-and-the-life-behind-her-latest-bestseller/) - Bestselling author Kristin Harmel opens up about losing and rebuilding identity during breast cancer treatment, and the friendships that carried her through it. Daryn and Kristin chat about asking for help, receiving it without guilt, and letting friends hold your hope when you cannot. Kristin reflects on her comeback to writing, how community fuels creative - [Ep 11: Sobriety & Second Chances: Scottie Bowman’s Amazing Pay it Forward Story](https://darynkagan.com/ep-11-sobriety-second-chances-scottie-bowmans-inspiring-recovery-story/) - Addiction recovery and second chances aren’t easy, but Scottie Bowman proves they’re possible. In this episode of Call Me Friend, Daryn Kagan calls her friend Scottie to share how she went from a 12-day drug and alcohol binge on the streets of Atlanta to 24 years of sobriety. Today, Scottie is not only a successful - [I'm Getting A New Set Of Boobs Tomorrow](https://darynkagan.com/im-getting-a-new-set-of-boobs-tomorrow/) - I’m getting a new set of boobs tomorrow. Uh oh. Have you just stepped into a classic case of over sharing? In a word, yes. This boob journey is one I never wanted to share. Didn’t want to share it with you. Really didn’t want to share it with the woman I consider my best - [Ep 10: Overcoming Tourette Syndrome, Trauma, & Triumph: CBS News’ David Begnaud on Friendship, Resilience, & Storytelling](https://darynkagan.com/ep-10-overcoming-tourettes-trauma-triumph-cbs-news-david-begnaud-on-friendship-resilience-storytelling/) - What does it take to rise from childhood bullying, Tourette syndrome, and the fear of never making it to national television, to becoming one of the most beloved Contributor in America? In this episode of Call Me Friend, host Daryn Kagan sits down with CBS News contributor David Begnaud to explore his extraordinary journey of - [Ep 9: Two Single Dads, One Powerful Friendship After Loss](https://darynkagan.com/ep-9-two-single-dads-one-powerful-friendship-after-loss/) - Two dads share raw stories of grief, single fatherhood, and healing while building friendship and hope after loss. In this episode of Call Me Friend, host Daryn Kagan connects with David McClain and Jamal Jones, two fathers who each lost their wives to cancer and her husband Trent, who walked a similar path. Together, they - [Ep 8: From CNBC to Money Rehab: Nicole Lapin’s Story of Financial Resilience & Rebuilding After Loss](https://darynkagan.com/from-cnbc-to-money-rehab-nicole-lapins-story-of-financial-resilience-rebuilding-after-loss/) - From CNBC to Money Rehab, Nicole Lapin brings a powerful story of financial resilience, personal finance mastery, and rebuilding after loss. In this episode of the Call Me Friend podcast, host Daryn Kagan sits down with Nicole to explore her journey from becoming the youngest anchor at CNBC to privately battling debt, making financial literacy - [Ep 4: TV Co-Anchors to Lifelong Friends: Bill Hemmer & Daryn Kagan Reunite](https://darynkagan.com/tv-co-anchors-to-lifelong-friends-bill-hemmer-daryn-kagan-reunite/) - From CNN anchors to lifelong friends, Daryn Kagan and Bill Hemmer reunite to toast decades of broadcast journalism, newsroom camaraderie, and life lessons. What happens when your “arranged marriage” at work turns into a real friendship? In this heartfelt and hilarious episode of Call Me Friend, host Daryn Kagan reconnects with her former CNN co-anchor, - [Ep 5: Sisters, Secrets & The Nazi Past: Uncovering The Man Who Calculated Death](https://darynkagan.com/ep-5-sisters-secrets-the-nazi-past-uncovering-the-man-who-calculated-death/) - Two American sisters. Their mother's plea from her deathbed to finish her memoir leads them shockingly to their Nazi-linked grandfather. A Gracie Award-winning podcast. In this unforgettable Call Me Friend episode, host Daryn Kagan talks with Suzanne and Stephanie Rico about their gripping podcast The Man Who Calculated Death, exploring family legacy, Nazi Germany, and - [Ep 6: Why Deborah Norville Really Left Inside Edition and the Surprise That Changed Everything](https://darynkagan.com/ep-6-why-deborah-norville-really-left-inside-edition-and-the-surprise-that-changed-everything/) - Deborah Norville reveals the real reason she left Inside Edition after 30 years and what sparked her most unexpected career transition yet. In her most in depth and revealing conversation to date, Deborah sits down with longtime friend and fellow broadcaster Daryn Kagan to share what really happened behind the scenes. Was it truly her - [Ep 7: From Lightning Strike Survivor to Changing Lives: Richard Rogers & Alberto’s Second Chance Story](https://darynkagan.com/ep-7-from-lightning-strike-survivor-to-changing-lives-richard-rogers-albertos-second-chance-story/) - Second chances, lightning strike survival, and overcoming adversity take center stage in this powerful episode of the Call Me Friend Podcast. Host Daryn Kagan welcomes Richard Rogers, a lightning strike survivor who faced death and lived to share his inspiring second chance story. Joined by Alberto, founder of West Texas Barber Academy, they share how - [Ep 2: Young Widower Saves the Life of New Wife’s College Roommate](https://darynkagan.com/ep-2-young-widower-saves-the-life-of-new-wifes-college-roommate/) - They were both widowed young, left to raise children alone, carry the weight of grief, and somehow start again. But through love and one selfless act set off a butterfly effect that would forever reshape three families. Kim and Steve, both widowed in their 30s and raising young kids, found love again after unthinkable loss. - [Ep 3: How My Gay Boyfriends Found Me a Husband](https://darynkagan.com/ep-3-how-my-gay-boyfriends-found-me-a-husband/) - What do gay boyfriends, heartbreak, and funnel cake have in common? They led to a real life love story about friendship, second chances, and finally finding a husband. Host Daryn Kagan reveals how her longtime friends Craig and Michael, a married couple who’d supported her through years of dating highs and lows, decided it was - [Ep 1: From TV Fame to Rock Bottom: Leon Harris on Addiction, Recovery & Redemption](https://darynkagan.com/ep-1-from-tv-fame-to-rock-bottom-leon-harris-on-addiction-recovery-redemption/) - In the powerful premiere of Call Me Friend, Emmy-winning anchor Leon Harris sits down with host and former CNN co-anchor Daryn Kagan for his first interview since the very public incident last November that ended his TV news career. This raw, redemptive conversation dives deep into what it means to fall hard, heal deeply, and - [Announcing my new podcast, "Call Me Friend!"](https://darynkagan.com/announcing-my-new-podcast-call-me-friend/) - Who do you call when life gets real? When the good news hits, the heartbreak lands, or you're just having one of those days—you call a friend. That’s the heartbeat of Call Me Friend—a feel-good weekly podcast that drops you into the kind of conversations that remind us who we are, where we belong, and - [How Great Friendship Comes Down To A Stack Of Pancakes](https://darynkagan.com/how-great-friendship-comes-down-to-a-stack-of-pancakes/) - My friend called this week to explain something I’d never considered. Great friendship comes down to a stack of pancakes. Her sweet call was apparently prompted by a visit with another friend of hers. A friend who has just filed for divorce. “Being there for her reminded me how you were there for me,” my - [Lessons from a Thanksgiving Jello Mold Fail](https://darynkagan.com/lessons-from-a-thanksgiving-jello-mold-fail/) - For the record, I did ask for advice. When planning our family Thanksgiving, my sister and I decided we should include our late grandmother’s jello mold. I can still picture it on Nana’s table: canned Mandarin orange slices magically floating in orange Jello making up the top layer. More orange jello mixed in the Cool - [The thing NOT to tell a first time dog lover](https://darynkagan.com/the-thing-not-to-tell-a-first-time-dog-lover/) - I certainly didn’t want to be the one to tell him. When a friend came home with his adorable gray fur ball of fun seven years ago, I did all the things a fellow dog lover does to welcome a new pet lover into our tribe. Well, almost all the things. Deliver - [When it's time to stop asking questions in your marriage](https://darynkagan.com/when-its-time-to-stop-asking-questions-in-your-marriage/) - I knew the answer to the question. And, I knew it was best to not answer it. At least not 100% truthfully. This is a story about what I’ve learned about questions and marriage. I’ve made a 180-degree pivot in my views. Let me start by explaining that the foundation - [The Magic of Setting Your Favorite Possession Free](https://darynkagan.com/the-magic-of-setting-your-favorite-possession-free/) - I never understood why he wanted the boat. Then again, there was so much I didn’t understand about their divorce. Why would anyone not want to be married to my phenomenal friend? Why would he cheat on her? Gaslight her? There are some things that are beyond explaining. Like - [Video shows the richest parents in the world](https://darynkagan.com/video-shows-the-richest-parents-in-the-world/) - The things you learn about your friends on social media. I’ll give this friend the benefit of the doubt. I don’t think he meant to brag. Yet, there he was on Facebook talking about how his parents died as the richest people in the world. He had video evidence, as well. - [Label this marriage 'conflicted'](https://darynkagan.com/label-this-marriage-conflicted/) - I’m armed and I’m told, dangerous. No thing, no person is safe. Hello, my name is Daryn and I’m a recovering slob. Perhaps, “lazy clutterer” is a better label. Speaking of labels, Husband says this is the problem. The messy beginning We begin with the mess. First there was - [Neighbor's question shines light on our different family](https://darynkagan.com/neighbors-question-shines-light-on-our-different-family/) - “Where do you get your pretty blue eyes from?” a neighbor asked Daughter, looking at her and then over to me. “Certainly not from you,” she peered into my dark brown eyes. Daughter and I both paused. We travel through our daily lives like most mothers and daughters, loving and annoying each other. It’s moments - [Rescued Poinsettia plant takes root in husband's undying love](https://darynkagan.com/poinsettia-plant/) - It’s the kind of love you root for. You know that top notch person you adore who just hasn’t found her person? That was the story with an old friend and work colleague of mine. The beauty of social media as we lived in different cities and took different career paths meant - [My mother made me do a crazy thing before I left to cover a war](https://darynkagan.com/cancer-makes-you-do-crazy-things/) - (I'm pulling out a column from way back in honor of the brave journalists covering the mess in Ukraine.) 10 years later I still can’t believe I did this. But, I guess when your mother catches you keeping one of the biggest secrets of your life, you do as you’re told. Rewind the tape to - [My Tears Have A Clock Of Their Own; Yours, Too?](https://darynkagan.com/my-tears-have-a-clock-of-their-own-yours-too/) - “Did you cry?” There you have the number one thing my daughter wanted to know, as she quizzed me like I was a guilty suspect and she was a top detective on CSI. Truth is, I can’t really blame her. As I’ve shared with you Dear Reader, since becoming a parent, I’ve become a crier. - [When the tears and time come too quickly](https://darynkagan.com/when-the-tears-and-time-come-too-quickly/) - I spoke too fast. Maybe I was simply defensive. Husband was so sure the answer was, “Yes.” I wouldn’t be surprised to discover the family was placing bets on the “when?” The question was simple. “Did you cry?” Who, me? I resemble that reputation Me, who has the reputation in - [How my best worst day put me right where I didn't know I needed to be](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-best-worst-day-put-me-right-where-i-didnt-know-i-needed-to-be/) - As bad days go, it was one of my worst in a long time. I say that knowing in the greater scheme of things, I have nothing to complain about. Usually, I can reset the day by focusing on something I am good at. But on this day, everywhere I turned, I seemed - [Traveling nut spoon carries stories never to be forgotten](https://darynkagan.com/traveling-nut-spoon-carries-stories-never-to-be-forgotten/) - There is so much to go through. A Dear Reader is packing up a lifetime. There is so much to give away, to sell, to find a home for, and sometimes to just let go. There’s the dining room table, the scene of a lifetime of joyous gatherings. None of her kids - [The excellent reason I lied to my husband](https://darynkagan.com/lied-to-my-husband/) - I lied to my husband this week. Which sounds awful and horrible. Judge me, if you must. But first consider this: It was all for a good cause. And, And, He told me to. How we got to the lie It was one of those mid-January snowy - [Fumble: Handling A Family Crisis From Across The Country](https://darynkagan.com/how-to-handle-a-family-crisis-from-across-the-country/) - “We have a crisis going on here.” Those are not exactly the words you want to hear from your daughter when you’re calling home from the other side of the country. “I’ve only been gone a few hours. What could possibly have gone wrong?” I asked with a jillion scenarios racing through my mind. “Daddy - [My panties on the porch. So, there's a story...](https://darynkagan.com/my-panties-on-the-porch-so-theres-a-story/) - There was a perfectly good explanation. Daughter would call it horrifying. It started out simply enough, as these embarrassing stories often do. Somehow, Husband and I convinced Daughter to take a walk with us last weekend. We leashed up the pup and headed out. Hiding the house key Because we wanted - [Can I Stop Running After The One I Love?](https://darynkagan.com/can-i-stop-running-after-the-one-i-love/) - Can we save them from dangerous choices? I knew it was a dangerous thought as soon as it popped into head. “What will I write about this week? Not much has happened.” This is always, without fail, when something happens. Something big. Trouble ahead It was Sunday evening. The sun - [When Your Past Invites You To Come Back](https://darynkagan.com/when-your-past-invites-you-to-come-back/) - It was the call I’d waited for so much of my career. It felt like it dropped out of the sky late this summer. A new news organization reached out a saying they wanted to discuss an opportunity. I thought they would want me to produce uplifting and positive content, after all - [When Divorce Means Losing Your Friend's Spouse](https://darynkagan.com/when-divorce-means-losing-your-friends-spouse/) - I got a divorce this week. Thank goodness, no. Not my husband and I. I think he would agree that were going pretty darned strong as we cross into our third year of marriage. Still, I got a divorce. A friend of mine let me know she and her husband made their split official. Signed - [Picking Grandparent Names: Is This The New Baby Boomer Contact Sport?](https://darynkagan.com/picking-grandparent-names-is-this-the-new-baby-boomer-contact-sport/) - My cousin is doing well, thank you very much. She survived a life milestone which I had no idea was supposed to be so challenging. And yet, as it often is with life passages, things like puberty, parenthood, or gray hair, we learn from those who bravely go before us. My cousin has picked her - [Beautiful Wedding Cake Mystery Solved: 63 Years Later Couple Reveals What's Inside](https://darynkagan.com/beautiful-wedding-cake-mystery-solved-63-years-later-couple-reveals-whats-inside/) - Wedding cake mystery It was a mystery more than 60 years in the making. More than 60 years since LaMar and Julia married. More than 60 years since they saved the top tier of their wedding cake. Instead of eating it on their first anniversary, they kept it. Pretty much forever. - [Realizing My Marriage Is Like The Inside Of A Hard Boiled Egg](https://darynkagan.com/realizing-my-marriage-is-like-the-inside-of-a-hard-boiled-egg/) - It’s the hard boiled egg hack I’ve been looking for my entire life. This story starts with a mystery. Our messy life “Why would someone leave two random eggs sitting on a shelf in our fridge?” I asked myself as I went about my daily quest to keep the fridge somewhat organized. - [How A Fish Explained The Hardest Part About Parenting To Me](https://darynkagan.com/fish-explained-hardest-part-parenting/) - I’m in debt to a fish. The fish, who in 10 seconds, explained my parenting conundrum to me. Keep your expert books, parenting websites. I have clarity now. Thanks to the fish. You see, Dear Reader, my daughter is a senior in high school. We are in the season of looking at colleges. So much - [Slowest Swimmer In The Boat Inspires Coveted Award](https://darynkagan.com/slowest-swimmer-in-the-boat-inspires-coveted-award/) - Slowest swimmer Sam Land showed doubters what a real winner looks like Sam Land knew one thing. It was time to get on the boat. This is a story that starts with a group of very dedicated triathletes in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guess who is coming to town In 2014, the folks who run the Ironman - [Why I'm Pretty Sure My Perfectly Imperfect Husband Just Gave Me a Compliment](https://darynkagan.com/why-im-pretty-sure-my-imperfectly-perfect-husband-just-gave-me-a-compliment/) - What do you think about what my perfectly imperfect husband just had to say? I found out this week that my husband has got it. Got it bad. I’m kicking myself because I should’ve known. Maybe I should’ve expected it during this ongoing pandemic? As long as we’re trying on maybe’s, maybe he shouldn’t have - [100-year-old NC Sock Company Pivots To Make Face Super Comfortable Face Masks-Available Now!](https://darynkagan.com/100-year-old-nc-sock-company-pivots-to-make-face-super-comfortable-face-masks-available-now/) - Sock company committed to saving jobs and making comfortable face masks you can wear all day-even with a full beard! There's this sock company in High Point, North Carolina. Harriss and Covington. They've been making socks since 1920. American made socks and hosiery-how awesome is that? For 100 years! Then comes along the coronavirus crisis. - [Strangers Clean Up CNN Center Atlanta Following Night of Out of Control Riots](https://darynkagan.com/strangers-clean-up-cnn-center-atlanta-following-night-of-out-of-control-riots/) - Strangers picked up glass and scrubbed graffiti at CNN Atlanta The worst and best of Atlanta CNN Center Atlanta has seen the worst and best of this city in a span of less than 20 hours. People began to gather Friday afternoon in Downtown Atlanta protesting a number of police officer shootings including the deaths - [My Husband Said 'No Dog On The Couch!' And Then This Happened](https://darynkagan.com/husband-no-dog-on-the-couch/) - You make the call about dog on the couch-Yes or No? I’ve started shopping for one of those DNA kits. For my husband. The need is rather urgent. For it’s become rather obvious, He is not the man I married. You might remember THAT guy, Dear Reader. An unlikely marriage - [How I Found A Husband--I Settled](https://darynkagan.com/how-i-found-a-husband-i-settled/) - “Help!” the email started. “I need some words of encouragement for my 43-year-old never been married friend!” Of all the pleas this forever-single columnist thought she would never get.--That probably has to be it. When you don’t get married for the first time until you’re 49, you hardly think you’ll be the one to be - [Cancer Survivor Therapy Dog "Moose" Awarded Honorary Veterinary Degree from Virginia Tech](https://darynkagan.com/cancer-survivor-therapy-dog-moose-awarded-honorary-veterinary-degree-from-virginia-tech/) - "Moose" is a mental health therapy dog and cancer survivor One awesome therapy dog "Moose" is one awesome therapy dog who is getting big honors from Virginia Tech. He's worked at Virginia Tech's Cook Counseling Center since 2014. Moose has been in more than 7,500 counseling sessions, making him one awesome mental health advocate. Moose - [That Time U2's Bono Wasn't The Biggest Rock Star On The Tour](https://darynkagan.com/that-time-u2s-bono-wasnt-the-biggest-rock-star-on-the-tour/) - What we can learn from rock star Bono touring Africa with US Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill "Oh, and I toured Africa for two weeks with Bono." It's the line when talking about my 12-years at CNN that makes eyes bug out the most. Yes, it was all that. 4-countries. My first trip to Africa. Crazy - [Punster's Lawn Cow Brings Smiles During Stressful Coronavirus Lockdown](https://darynkagan.com/punsters-lawn-cow-brings-smiles-during-stressful-coronavirus-lockdown/) - What good is a lawn cow if she's not making neighbors smile? Full disclosure on this lawn cow. She's not just any cow. She happens to be a friend. Well, the cow of my good friend, Tracy Field. We go back to Stanford days. Tracy and I. Not the cow. The cow showed up a - [Woman Quarantines With Ex-Husband, Their Kids, His Wife, Her Ex-Husband & Their Kids!](https://darynkagan.com/woman-quarantines-with-ex-husband-their-kids-his-wife-her-ex-husband-their-kids/) - Quarantine with ex-husband and the rest of this modern family seemed the best option for all during the coronavirus lockdown Denise Albert never imagined living with her ex-husband again. Crazy coronavirus quarantine times call for situations none of us could've ever imagined. She explains the series of events that led to this set up on - [TheMealBridge.com Website Let's You Buy Meals For Healthcare Workers On The CoronaVirus Frontlines](https://darynkagan.com/themealbridge-com-website-lets-you-buy-meals-for-healthcare-workers-on-the-coronavirus-frontlines/) - One family creates TheMealBridge.com website to help show gratitude and save restaurants The MealBridge.com website is a new creation born out of the coronavirus crisis. One family in Atlanta came up with a brilliant idea that is meant to give folks a way to show gratitude to healthcare workers on the front lines. And it - [Surprising Our Daughter At The Airport Before She Heads To Semester Overseas](https://darynkagan.com/surprising-our-daughter-at-the-airport-before-she-heads-to-semester-overseas/) - Surprising our daughter seemed like the only option when I had to be in two places at once You can subscribe to our MilesHusband YouTube Channel here This was the kind of problem with only one answer. I’d have to be two places at once. You’ve been there, Dear Reader? Or tried to - [Frequent Flyer Miles Game: Getting Started](https://darynkagan.com/frequent-flyer-miles-game-getting-started/) - So, you've seen how Miles Husband has been able to create amazing international trips by collecting frequent flyer miles without flying. Here is our most recent over-the-top adventure. "Sign me up!" you say. Or "This has to be too good to be true." Well, yes, and no. It is indeed possible. In the last few - [My MilesHusband & I Have (Re)Launched Our YouTube Channel Featuring Our Crazy Travel-Obsessed Life](https://darynkagan.com/my-mileshusband-i-have-relaunched-our-youtube-channel-featuring-our-crazy-travel-obsessed-life/) - Check out our new'ish YouTube Channel I've shared how we travel. A lot. How Husband has figured out how to turn every dollar we spend into multiple miles. So we travel the world in luxury while spending pennies. I'm excited to share the news about our new MilesHusband YouTube channel! It's the latest edition to - [This Great Thanksgiving Debate Is Dividing My Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/8623-thanksgiving-debate-what-time-dinner/) - You need to have the final say on this Thanksgiving debate You might suggest that this is something Husband and I should’ve addressed before we got married. You would not be wrong. Except that, we are so far apart on this issue, it’s possible, had we discussed it, no marriage would’ve ever taken - [Talking My Transition To Uplifting, Positive News On NPR's GPB Radio](https://darynkagan.com/8609-positive-news-uplifting/) - Thank you to GPB's "On Second Thought" for having me on to talk about uplifting, positive news So how does a traditional journalist make the shift from talking doom and gloom to creating content that is uplifting and positive news? Do folks really want to hear this kind of news? Thank you to Virginia Prescott - [News Anchor Gina Maravilla Shares Her Deaf Daughter's Inspiring Cochlear Implant Journey](https://darynkagan.com/8600-gina-maravilla-deaf-daughter-cochlear-implant/) - Cochlear implant has brought Gina Maravilla's daughter's hearing back for a second time A device called a cochlear implant is a miracle for AZ Family anchor Gina Maravilla, her family, and especially her 11-year-old daughter, Kennedy. Kennedy wasn't born completely deaf, but she has had hearing issues from the beginning. When she was four-years-old she - ['From Behind' Photos Tell The Best Stories](https://darynkagan.com/awful-photo-must-now-never-delete/) - My finger needs to calm down. Fight the itch. The one that is so quick to delete. The one that is instant judge and jury over a photo not being worthy. I’m reminded of this lesson as I go through old family photos. Which to keep. Which to toss. Does your delete finger itchy, as - [My Unexpected Journey To No Longer Owning A Car](https://darynkagan.com/8566-no-own-car/) - No longer owning a car is part of a bigger life question I should start this week’s column with a confession. I didn’t tell you the whole story. It just didn’t seem that important at the time. Remember a couple weeks ago when I told you the wild story of trying save a baby squirrel? - [How Our Best-Intentioned Wedding Anniversary Plans Went Totally Squirrelly](https://darynkagan.com/how-our-best-intentioned-wedding-anniversary-plans-went-totally-squirrelly/) - Somehow it's another wedding anniversary that didn't go as planned It was supposed to be a special anniversary. For Husband and me. Lucky number 7. And yet, It was not the anniversary we planned. Husband tried to surprise me with out-of-town plans. No one was waiting for his last-minute search. He pivoted - [Your Dog Doesn't Love You Back Like You Love Her And Let's Be Thankful For That](https://darynkagan.com/your-dog-doesnt-love-you-back-like-you-love-her-and-lets-be-thankful-for-that/) - The fur was flying. With good reason. I caught a recent online segment of “Good Morning Britain.” Call it mindless internet surfing. I call it, “research.” For this column. Yeah, I’m going with that. Can you say this about your beloved dog? I’m watched this segment, shaking my head, thinking, “Did they really go there?” - [I'm So Glad I Didn't Wait For Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/im-so-glad-i-didnt-wait-for-marriage/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I didn’t wait for marriage. Judge me if you want for not holding out. I will simply point the finger at an old boyfriend. Oh, and my mother. The Gift* First, my mother - [How Can It Be A Year Already?](https://darynkagan.com/how-can-it-be-a-year-already/) - I've never felt time go so fast! July 14, 2012--Three weeks after we got engaged, my fiance' and I decided it was time to move in together. Since we didn't want to just "live together, we gathered up or two girls and headed up to a beautiful waterfall outside of Cashiers, NC. My dress? Bought - [Why My Husband Is NOT The Man of My Dreams](https://darynkagan.com/why-my-husband-is-not-the-man-of-my-dreams/) - I didn’t have the wedding of my dreams. I’ve been thinking about that wedding. It was seven years ago this week. You might remember this, Dear Reader, As this entire story has unfolded in the lines of this website. How we got to the waterfall wedding We got engaged after two - [How One New Jersey Mom Created Thriving Giving Organic Skin Care Company From Her Dining Room Table](https://darynkagan.com/how-one-new-jersey-mom-created-thriving-giving-organic-skin-care-company-from-her-dining-room-table/) - Gilly Garrett thought she was creating organic skin care for herself Gilly Garrett has found a formula for so much more than organic skin care. She's found a way to give back. Big time. It started at her dining room table It started as a simple experiment to create a scrub made of oils and - [How My Dog Got Me A Husband And Yours Could, Too](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-dog-got-me-a-husband-and-yours-could-too/) - My dog got me a husband by taking matters into her own paws The numbers didn’t add up. Not to this dog lover. 86%. That’s how many people say they would break up with someone who doesn’t like their dog. This would never be me “How ridiculous,” I thought as I - [The Lucky Charm Who Changed My Life Forever](https://darynkagan.com/the-lucky-charm-who-changed-my-life-forever/) - As lucky charms go, mine is not shy. “Daryn, you should write a column about me,” she strongly suggested this week. Since she is the one who, I believe, changed my life for the best ever, hers is a request I’m sure to fulfill. So here goes. She showed up at one of those low - [How Do You Know When It's Time To Pack Up And Make That Change?](https://darynkagan.com/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-pack-up-and-make-that-change/) - Do you know when it's time to make that change? Husband has an online addiction problem. With real estate. As long as they are houses in other towns. One year of empty nest and he wants us out of here. “Check out this marsh front home on the coast of Georgia.” - [Because Women Without Children Are Magnificent, Too](https://darynkagan.com/because-women-without-children-are-magnificent-too/) - How did women without children get left out of the celebration? With all due respect to us mothers, I'm not sure how we ended up with this day to celebrate only women who have children. Women are creators and nurturers. This expresses itself in different ways. To my fellow mothers, you have a whole card - [Are Black Jelly Beans The Sweetest, Most Divisive Candy In America?](https://darynkagan.com/are-black-jelly-beans-the-sweetest-most-divisive-candy-in-america/) - Where do you stand on black jelly beans? You’re either going to be with me, Or vehemently, “Get out of my house now!” against me on this one. In this divisive era, Where Republicans and Democrats can’t govern, When Easter and Passover fell on the same weekend, Where there is - [Teenager Summer Dale Leaves Her Mother An Unexpected Path For Finding Happiness & Surviving Grief](https://darynkagan.com/teenager-summer-dale-leaves-her-mother-an-unexpected-path-for-finding-happiness-surviving-grief/) - Teenager Summer Dale leaves behind unexpected path to surviving grief and finding happiness. - [That Mood Of Mine That Drives My Husband Crazy](https://darynkagan.com/that-mood-of-mine-that-drives-my-husband-crazy/) - Funny thing is I had no idea this was a problem As marital disagreements go, This was one I wasn’t expecting. It popped up on a typical weekend day for Husband and me, sitting side by side at our dining room table. I was puttering away adding uplifting and positive news stories - [You Deserve To Be Your Own Valentine! Gifts For You From You](https://darynkagan.com/you-deserve-to-be-your-own-valentine-gifts-for-you-from-you/) - It's Time To Celebrate You! I love love, so yes, I'm a fan of Valentine's Day. I hate the pain it causes, though. The feeling unloved, uncoupled, left out. Trust me, I was single for far more Valentine's Days than I'll ever be married. That's why I'm all about living in the now. Celebrate the - [Why I'm Thinking Of Going Back To An Old Relationship](https://darynkagan.com/why-im-thinking-of-going-back-to-an-old-relationship/) - I’m thinking about getting back into an old relationship. One that took too much time. Brought on too many tears. One I decided I needed to leave. I’m talking about my relationship with the question, “Why?” Perhaps, you’ve been overly involved with “Why?” as well, Dear Reader? “Why?” usually extended its beckoning finger at those - [Billionaire Used Amex Card To Buy Masterpiece-For The Airline Points!](https://darynkagan.com/billionaire-used-amex-to-buy-masterpiece-for-the-airline-points/) - Here's a guy after my Mad Scientist Miles Chasing Husband's Heart. Chinese billionaire Liu Yiqian recently sent tongues wagging in the art world when he bought Armedo Modigliani's masterpiece, "Reclining Nude" at auction for a whopping $170 million! That's the second highest price ever paid for a piece of art at auction. The New York - [The Last Place I Ever Expected To Find My Daughter](https://darynkagan.com/the-last-place-i-ever-expected-to-find-my-daughter/) - I thought we were so special. So different. No one else had a story like ours when it came to becoming a family. This kind of story of adoption. And there are a lot of great stories. We have cousins just back from Ethiopia with the son they worked two years to adopt. Me? I - [I've Been A Naughty, Naughty Customer](https://darynkagan.com/new-car-problems-are-my-fault-naughty-customer1732/) - What a dirty, shameful week it has been. Where else to be better experience that than at my local car dealership? I actually had my car shipped to my dealership, I found it really hard to find a car transport company who would bring my car to me, but luckily I did. Nothing too fancy. - [Why Does Everyone Else's Plate Look Tastier?](https://darynkagan.com/why-does-everyone-elses-plate-look-tastier/) - Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? That’s turning out not to be true at our house. My 15 ½ year old dog, Darla, so sharp, she’s taught herself. Do I sound pleased? Because I’m not. This trick involves the cat. Darla has lived every day of her life with a cat. - [A Broken Heart: I Need To Find An App For That](https://darynkagan.com/a-broken-heart-i-need-to-find-an-app-for-that/) - I’m wishing for a magic potion. Something. Anything. To heal my friend’s heart. My friend who has been by my side, it feels like forever. My friend, who’s husband has left. The only man she has ever loved. He’s decided he needs to go find something, someone better out there. Yeah, one of those stories. - [Do My Fat Thumbs Make Me Look Old?](https://darynkagan.com/do-my-fat-thumbs-make-me-look-old/) - “That makes you look old,” daughter informed me this week, as she watched me do something I do several times a day. Was she looking at emerging “non-pigmented” roots along my hairline. (I prefer not to use the “g-four letter word.”) Reach for reading glasses? Inspect a new crevice working it’s way onto my face. - [13 Wishes For Our Daughter's 17th Birthday](https://darynkagan.com/13-wishes-for-our-daughters-17th-birthday/) - Dear Daughter, It seems like just last week I was sharing, “14 Wishes For My Daughter’s 16th Birthday.” yourcialisrx.com/cialis_soft_tabs.html With your 17th birthday upon us, the window is closing on your time under our roof. Please allow me to get a few more wishes in: -I wish you know there are so many ways to - [Mystery Text Creates Social Dilemma; What To Do When You Should Know Someone's Name?](https://darynkagan.com/mystery-texter-creates-social-dilemma1670/) - This week’s “Oh, No You Didn’t” Moment started with a single text message that popped up on my phone last Saturday. “Hey, DK, thanks for the email,” it read. “How about breakfast or coffee tomorrow?” “How lovely to get that invitation from a sweet friend!” you’re thinking. Yes. Only one problem. There was only an - [My Dog's Name-The One I Never Wanted To Give Her, But Had No Choice](https://darynkagan.com/my-dogs-name-the-one-i-never-wanted-to-give-her-but-had-no-choice/) - Oh, yes I did. Simply did what any other crazy dog lover would do. When I saw a new survey announcing “The Most Popular Dog Names In America,” I clicked. Clicked first. Ahead of checking out any stories on world peace, the volatile stock market or the environment, for surely, knowing where my dog’s name - [So, About That Time I Remembered My Life Changed; Maybe Yours, Too?](https://darynkagan.com/so-about-that-time-i-remembered-my-life-changed-maybe-yours-too/) - So, about that time I remembered my life changed.... A couple of precious gifts from neighbors showed up at my front door this week. No, not covered hot casseroles dishes so that I wouldn’t have to cook dinner. Though, that would’ve been nice. All contributions are always graciously accepted. This story starts with Eli. You - [My Happy Marriage That Surely Will Not Last](https://darynkagan.com/my-happy-marriage-that-surely-will-not-last/) - Of all the punch lines I never planned on, this must surely be it. Somehow, I, out of all people, wake up today on the third anniversary of being married to a perfectly imperfect man. A man with more quirks than a roomful of brilliant physicists. After all, what could be quirkier than a man - [My Husband And I Had Trust Issues This Week](https://darynkagan.com/my-husband-and-i-had-trust-issues-this-week/) - Picture this, if you can. My husband and I had trust issues this week. Did I doubt he would provide for our family? Pull us out of a burning building, if need be? Step between me and a hungry saber-tooth tiger? Nah, he’d have that covered. This, though, was big. Months ago, I accepted a - [The Stumble That Humbled Me And The Fall You Might've Had This Week, Too](https://darynkagan.com/falling-down-overcoming-obstacles-running-accident/) - I fell this week. By that, I mean, I fell. Literally, fell. Flat. It happened as I was just starting a little run, jog, or “shuffle” as my kids call it. That’s when I spotted a neighbor watering his lawn. I turned to say hello, focusing on the pretty flowers instead of the sidewalk in - [The Spoon That Held Hope I'd One Day Find Love](https://darynkagan.com/the-spoon-that-held-hope-id-one-day-find-love/) - (((Coming up on our third wedding anniversary is making me nostalgic for that time when impossible dreams starting coming true. Sharing this column for you, who is still hoping to find love, and the friend who believes it's possible, even when you can't believe any longer. From June 2012:))) It must’ve been about four years ago - [Rival Meteorologist And Other Journalists Fill In So WBDJ Journalists Can Go To Memorial](https://darynkagan.com/uplifting-positive-stories-rival-meteorologist-and-other-journalists-fill-in-so-wbdj-journalists-can-go-to-memorial/) - And here you have the other side of journalism. We saw the awful, dark, and twisted mind at work last week when Alison Parker and Adam Wade were shot dead while doing a live shot in Roanoke, Virginia. Monday, two former employees manned the evening broadcasts. Retired anchor Keith Humphry stepped in. Meteorologist Andrew Freiden - [How My Husband's Frequent Flyer Hobby Took Us On The First Class Ride Of A Lifetime!](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-husbands-frequent-flyer-hobby-took-us-on-the-first-class-ride-of-a-lifetime/) - His frequent flyer hobby booked us a double bed in the sky *Video Posted Below* I thought it was time to share my husband's crazy over-the-top frequent flyer hobby. This is what consumes our lives when I'm not sharing uplifting news with the world. About 10 years ago he discovered that he could make every - [Daryn's New Book, "Hope Possible!" Is Here!](https://darynkagan.com/daryns-new-book-hope-possible-is-here/) - I'm so excited that my new book, "Hope Possible" is here! The full title is, "Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor's Thoughts On Losing A Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog." https://youtu.be/CUynyONxICs Here's a peek at what it says on the back cover: From your TV screen, Daryn Kagan - [That Time My Husband Took Our Family Planning Into His Own Hands Without Consulting Me First](https://darynkagan.com/that-time-my-husband-took-our-family-planning-into-his-own-hands-without-consulting-me-first/) - Because this is not the way I thought we would be expanding our family. I would’ve told you our family was complete. Family Planning 101. Husband, me, Two girls, now both away at college. And the cliché empty nest puppy. Husband apparently had other ideas. He took matters into his own hands this week, walking - [How My Naughty Dog And I Ruined What Was Left Of Facebook](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-naughty-dog-and-i-ruined-what-was-left-of-facebook/) - Leave it to me to ruin Facebook. Granted, your high school frenemy’s unending photos of her perfect children, the Russians, and your Cousin Allen’s hysterical political posts made the first big push. I, now, have finished it off. With the help of my naughty dog. There was one wonderful, happy place left on the place - [The Holidays Are Dead To Me & Other Things That Make Me Happy](https://darynkagan.com/the-holidays-are-dead-to-me-other-things-that-make-me-happy/) - The holidays are dead to me. Which is a big reason this is one of the best times of the year. By “dead,” I actually mean THE dead, as in those who have passed. I love how they have a way of taking a seat at my holiday table. Something tells me they - [How I Found Gratitude On A Nude Beach In Florida](https://darynkagan.com/how-i-found-gratitude-on-a-nude-beach-in-florida/) - You just never know where certain feelings will pop up. Here's one about a trip to Florida, a nude beach and gratitude. - [My Shameful, Embarrassing Thanksgiving Behavior](https://darynkagan.com/my-shameful-embarrassing-thanksgiving-behavior/) - My embarrassing shameful Thanksgiving behavior inspired by 4 ounces of adorable, creamy, goodness. - [Those Were Not The Empty Nest Tears I Was Expecting](https://darynkagan.com/those-were-not-the-empty-nest-tears-i-was-expecting/) - What really went down after I dropped off our youngest at college This was not the plan. Not the plan for the plane at all. “How do you think you’ll do?” This question has come from multiple directions all summer long. All in anticipation of what mothers around the world dread. The Empty Nest. I could’ve placed - [What Do You Keep If Your Entire Life Had To Fit In Five Boxes?](https://darynkagan.com/what-do-you-keep-if-your-entire-life-had-to-fit-in-five-boxes/) - Daria and Jim are a nightmare. At least to certain forces we face every day. The companies and marketers who bombard us with romance of stuff. No matter how much you have, you need more. Clothes, shoes, boats, houses, trinkets. Daria, especially, gets that. Stuff-loving hoarder. That’s how she described herself. So much stuff it - [The Shocking Thing I've Caught My Husband Doing In Bed Inspires Perfect Anniversary Gift](https://darynkagan.com/the-shocking-thing-ive-caught-my-husband-doing-in-bed-inspires-perfect-anniversary-gift/) - At least I have his anniversary present figured out. That’s what I’m telling myself. To calm down. After discovering what I discovered my husband doing. In bed. Where he wasn’t alone. He was there, Happily, With my beloved tweezers. Watching TV, relaxing, and removing random old man hairs. I pause early in this column to - [Why You Should Hire My Dog As Your Next Commencement Speaker](https://darynkagan.com/why-you-should-hire-my-dog-as-your-next-commencement-speaker/) - An opportunity has been missed. In this Graduation Season I see a long list of celebrities, politicians, and business giants asked to give commencement speeches. I watch. Looking to be impressed. Instead, I’m left with the feeling that once you get past the famous name, there’s often something missing. The feeling that, well, My dog - [How My Brilliant Idea Managed To Meltdown A Four Year-Old's Birthday Party](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-brilliant-idea-managed-to-meltdown-a-four-year-olds-birthday-party/) - It’s not that I meant to meltdown my four year-old neighbor’s birthday party. Just talented, I guess. And giftless. Yes, I dared to walk into a four year-old's party without a gift. Crazy week, whatever. I know when you’re four, you know birthday equals presents. I did have what I thought was a brilliant idea. - [The One Who Cured The Worst Pity Party Of My Life](https://darynkagan.com/the-one-who-cured-the-worst-pity-party-of-my-life/) - This week I have the story of one lucky girl. A story that starts with a pathetic pity party. Mine. On a Sunday night, long ago. What is it about Sunday nights? How they magnify lonely and sad. Which is what I cried to my best friend. It wasn’t the first time we’d had this talk. Which - [CBS Sunday Morning Debut: A Mother's Day Card For My Daughter's First Mother](https://darynkagan.com/cbs-sunday-morning-debut-a-mothers-day-card-for-my-daughters-first-mother/) - Thank you, CBS Sunday Morning, for the chance to be on your incredible program! Such a thrill to hear Jane Pauley introduce my piece. This is about dreams coming true in ways you don't expect. About being in debt to others, And mostly, about one awesome daughter. And this is for you, You, who might - [Why, Yes, I Would Save My Dog First In Case Of A Fire. Wouldn't You?](https://darynkagan.com/i-would-save-my-dog-first-in-case-of-a-fire/) - It’s one of the earliest memories of my horrifying my kids. Earliest. Not the last. I am, after all, A mother. A conversation about fire safety started this particular episode. We started with something like, “How would you get out of the house in an emergency?” Once I was satisfied with their proposed plans, I - [Waffle House Shooting Hero Says Four Year Old Daughter Was His Inspiration To Act](https://darynkagan.com/waffle-house-shooting-hero-says-four-year-old-daughter-was-his-inspiration/) - Waffle House shooting hero James Shaw, Jr. knows the answer to the question. What would you do if you had a chance to save the lives of strangers even if it meant it might cost you your own life. This 29-year-old man knows. He acted. The Tennessean reports Travis Reinking, 29, opened fire at about - [The Joy Of Losing A Job I Have Loved So Very Much](https://darynkagan.com/joy-losing-job-loved/) - It appears I’m losing my job. A job I’ve loved very much. A job I dreamed of getting for years. Even though I knew I was the least worthy person in the world. I didn’t have an ice cube in the desert’s chance of getting. And yet, It happened. Now, it’s going away. And I - [The Honest Reason Why It's Better We Are 500 Miles Apart On Our Anniversary](https://darynkagan.com/why-we-are-supposed-to-be-500-miles-apart-on-our-anniversary/) - We won’t be together this anniversary. It makes perfect sense, actually. Things are working just as they are supposed to. In a world where often not much makes sense, This does. I need to remind myself of that today. This is an anniversary that very few get. And one, I bet, You, who are a - [The Treasure My Ex-Boyfriend Left Behind](https://darynkagan.com/treasure-ex-boyfriend-left-behind/) - She wasn’t the gift I was expecting. Not from my boyfriend. A very long ago boyfriend, I should clarify. This is a story about where we get our people. About how ugly can sometimes, Sometimes, Leave behind a treasure. There was so much wrong with this particular relationship. Red flags from the beginning. And yet, - [That Time My Husband Declared Me Guilty Without A Fair Trial](https://darynkagan.com/time-husband-declared-guilty-without-fair-trial/) - The truth is, I’m not sorry. Let’s establish that right off. Before we get to the thing, The accusation, My husband has accused me of. Yes, that husband. The one, Who, wonderful as he is, Is not great at sharing, In one certain circumstance. He’ll give you his last dime, The shirt off his back. - [Daryn's TED Talk: "How To Watch The News And Get Inspired"](https://darynkagan.com/daryns-ted-talk-watch-news-get-inspired/) - Giving a TED Talk has long been on my bucket list. A gajillion thanks to the folks at TEDxBigSky who invited me to be part of their 2018 event. The theme of this entire TEDx event was "Positivity." My talk, "How To Watch The News And Get Inspired." Yes, I really do believe there is - [Hands Down, This Is The Holiday To End All Holidays](https://darynkagan.com/holiday-end-holidays/) - It’s possible today is your day. Your special day. You, who did not have a single Hallmark moment with your less than functional family at Thanksgiving. You, who did not put the “Ho Ho Ho” in Christmas. You, who didn’t look up once from your desk wondering if that bouquet of red roses - [The Awesome Way This Minnesota High School Football Player Earned Two Super Bowl Tickets](https://darynkagan.com/awesome-way-minnesota-high-school-football-player-earned-two-super-bowl-tickets/) - 16-year-old Danny Lilya has wanted to be a high school football player for pretty much his whole life. Not just any high school. The one he has grown up cheering for in his hometown, The Moose Lake Rebels. Parents and teachers are all for a kid having a dream. In this case, though, There was - [Why I Finally Drew The Line On My Husband's Love Affair](https://darynkagan.com/finally-drew-line-husbands-love-affair/) - I drew the line at Chex Mix. I had to. Draw it somewhere. Had you been here to see what’s been going on in this home, you would’ve expected me to do something. Anything. A lot sooner. How many wives could standby calmly And bear witness to their - [Friend's Unfinished Business Shines Light On Never Knowing Someone's Whole Story](https://darynkagan.com/friends-unfinished-business-shines-light-never-knowing-someones-whole-story/) - And here, I thought I knew the whole story. Which makes me laugh now. You, too, probably. I imagine from time to time, you fall into the same trap. Casually following someone on Facebook. They look like they have everything. Especially, the thing you think you’re missing in your life. In this case, Incredible career - [How I Almost Tossed A Piece Of My Husband's Soul To The Curb](https://darynkagan.com/almost-tossed-piece-husbands-soul-curb/) - I realize now, That nothing, No one, Was safe. Not in the path of the crazed madwoman. Who happened to be me. I shared last week how, After years of procrastinating, Husband and I finally attacked, Emptied, Donated the contents of a storage shed we’d - [The Awful Thing We Did Instead Of Taking That $23,000 Luxury Vacation Over New Year's](https://darynkagan.com/awful-thing-instead-taking-23000-luxury-vacation-new-years/) - As falls go, this was like gravity on steroids. One minute, my husband was about to pull off one of his frequent flyer mile miracles. New Year’s week flying around the world on Singapore Suites First Class. As he does, he was about to pull off a $23,000 trip by paying - [Why Our Family Holiday Card This Year Was Actually Fake News](https://darynkagan.com/family-holiday-card-actually-fake-news/) - It’s pathetic, really. Sure, it looks pleasant enough. This year’s family holiday card. I managed to herd all four family members. Everyone combed their hair. Put on a clean sweater. There we are gathered around the Christmas tree, Smiling our bright smiles. I could almost post “#winning.” - [Wave Of Kindness For Homeless Man Who Spent His Last $20 To Rescue Stranded Woman](https://darynkagan.com/wave-of-kindness-for-homeless-man-who-spent-his-last-20-to-rescue-stranded-woman/) - An angel appeared in the form of a homeless man for one young woman after she ran out of gas on a dark Philadelphia highway. 27-year-old Kate McClure was driving late one night earlier this month when she felt her car start to chug. That dreaded chug. The out-of-gas sputter. She made it to the - [Why I Slept With A New Love When My Husband Went Out Of Town](https://darynkagan.com/why-i-slept-with-a-new-love-when-my-husband-went-out-of-town/) - I could tell you this was an accident. A moment of impetuousness. That would be a lie. The truth is I’ve been thinking about, Imagining, Planning this for weeks. This is what happens when a husband travels a lot. As has been the case with mine. Out Tuesday. Back Thursday. All for business. All productive. - [To Spouse Or Not To Spouse. That Is The Class Reunion Question](https://darynkagan.com/spouse-not-spouse-class-reunion-question/) - This was not in the book. Not in the book about marriage. The one with 276 questions you and your intended should ask each other before you say, “I do.” So you really know each other. Your true wishes and desires. How you go about things. Almost like you’ve known each other all your lives. - [Morning Phone Call Reveals Unexpected Revelation From His 91-Year-Old Father](https://darynkagan.com/morning-phone-call-reveals-unexpected-revelation-91-year-old-father/) - The call came at 8:45. As it does each morning. Not my phone. My friend, Gene’s. It was his dad. His 91-year-old dad. “We don’t actually say the words out loud,” Gene said, “But it’s his daily, ‘Yes, I’m alive’ call.” Some days the calls are short. Some days longer. Monday was a chatty call. - [My Marriage Is Going Nowhere And I Couldn't Be Happier](https://darynkagan.com/marriage-going-nowhere-couldnt-happier/) - My marriage is going nowhere. At least, that was the case this weekend. This wasn’t our intention. The plan, rather, Last second, as it was, Was pretty grand. I had seen early Saturday morning that my favorite singer was in town for a concert. The guy you pretend is singing to you. Or, if that - [Frequent Flyer Miles Rookies--Target Your Dream Trip!](https://darynkagan.com/miles-newbies-target-your-dream-trip/) - So you want to get started on this incredibly fun and lucrative hobby of points chasing. Of course, you read my last post and did your dreaming---where do you want to go with these zillions of miles you are going to collect without flying? That's really important because it is going to help direct how - [CNN Correspondent Ed Lavandera And Crew Help Rescue Elderly Couple In Texas Floods](https://darynkagan.com/cnn-correspondent-ed-lavandera-crew-help-rescue-elderly-couple-texas-floods/) - CNN correspondent Ed Lavandera is just one of the many reporters, producers and photographers in Texas covering the devastating floods. They are there to do a job. Report the news. And, And, They are human beings first. None finer than the folks who work for CNN. Ed was in the middle of a live shot - [How I Know The Real Excitement About The Solar Eclipse Has Nothing To Do With Science](https://darynkagan.com/real-eclipse-excitement-nothing-science/) - I finally get all this historic solar eclipse stuff. Not the science part. I’ve understood that for some time. At 1:16 pm EDT on Monday, the moon will butt its way between the sun and Earth. It’s going to make things really dark in the middle of the day across America. Such excitement! The plans - [Something Heartbreaking Is Happening Behind My Daughter's Bedroom Door](https://darynkagan.com/something-heartbreaking-happening-behind-daughters-bedroom-door/) - Something unbelievable is happening in my daughter’s bedroom. Behind a closed door. I know what she’s doing in there. Something big. Something heartbreaking. Something totally expected. Daughter is packing for college. I want to run in there 1,425 times an hour. “Have you thought about…?” “Have you considered…?” I stop myself mid-knock outside her door. - [The Question Every True Dog Lover Must Answer](https://darynkagan.com/question-every-true-dog-lover-must-answer/) - Panic set in this week. During a phone call home while I was out of town. A last minute trip I’ll tell you about sometime. For now, this panic was about our “newish” puppy. Because of the last second nature of this trip, I left all the animals in care of my husband. There was - [How One Incredible Mom Helped Her Son With Autism Find His Voice](https://darynkagan.com/one-incredible-mom-helped-son-autism-find-voice/) - This isn't just a story of one mom who has a son with autism. This one is more personal for me. It's about my good friend and former CNN colleague, Parisa Khosravi, and her son Payam. I'll never forget sitting across from Parisa at Houston's. This is probably 11 years ago. Her young son wasn't - [How Candles In A Church I Don't Belong To Help Me Find My Way Home](https://darynkagan.com/candles-church-dont-belong-help-find-way-home/) - Italy. The answer is Italy. If you caught last week’s column, Dear Reader, you left me stuck on a mountain top in Oman with a husband who was using frequent flyer miles prowess to get us home. “How about Milan?” he piped up as he worked his booking voodoo. He found a beautiful hotel and - [This Is The Last Place I Ever Expected To Spend My Wedding Anniversary](https://darynkagan.com/this-is-the-last-place-i-ever-expected-to-spend-my-wedding-anniversary/) - This is the last place I ever imagined I’d spend my wedding anniversary. On top of a mountain. In Oman. Go ahead and look on a map. I had to. We’re talking the other side of the globe. A tiny country bordered by The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. Yeah, Yemen. Which my - [How MilesHusband's Biggest Points Redemption Ever Waited Behind This Hotel Door](https://darynkagan.com/how-mileshusbands-biggest-points-redemption-waited-behind-this-hotel-door/) - Points redemption. Two words that give MilesHusband goosies. Basically, it's the math you do to figure out how much value each point or mile brings you when you cash it in for a flight, a hotel, or heaven forbid, a camera or magazine subscription. And off the top, I have to say, "Thank you, Chase - [The Unimaginable Twist To My Unanswered Prayer](https://darynkagan.com/unimaginable-twist-unanswered-prayer/) - My daughter spotted it first. As kids are apt to do. Though, she probably didn’t realize exactly what she was seeing. Just how enormous it was. This is the story of how innocently standing in line at our favorite burrito joint, With nothing more than quacamole and a margarita on my brain, There it was. - [How The Most Unromantic Man In America Made His Wife Burst Into Tears](https://darynkagan.com/unromantic-man-america-made-wife-burst-tears/) - Don’t take my word for it. John Reilly will tell you he is “The Most Unromantic Man in America.” “I’m a chronic and habitual underachiever when it comes to birthday/Christmas/anniversary gifts for my wonderful wife,” he confessed to me in an email this week. As people do. They like to tell me stuff. Like giving - [About That Time My Puppy Threatened To Flunk Obedience School](https://darynkagan.com/about-that-time-my-puppy-threatened-to-flunk-obedience-school/) - It’s that performance anxiety dream. The one where you’re in class and you haven’t done all the work. You’re not going to graduate. You’ll be the laughing stock of the class. You’ve had that dream, Dear Reader? The good part is when you wake up realizing this was just a dream. Everything is fine. Oh, - [Boy Covers Thousands Veterans' Graves In Flags And Respect](https://darynkagan.com/boy-covers-thousands-veterans-graves-flags-respect/) - 11-year-old Preston Sharp is on a mission to cover the graves of veterans in flags, flowers and respect. His passion surfaced a couple years ago while visiting his grandfather's grave. He became upset seeing not all the other markers had flags. His mother told him if something bothers him then he needs to do something - [What I Wish I Could Tell That Broken-Hearted Woman Who Popped Up In My Facebook Memory](https://darynkagan.com/wish-tell-broken-hearted-woman-popped-facebook-memory/) - I wasn’t expecting this. My future to come screaming from my past this week. You know those reminders Facebook surprises you with on a regular basis? “Daryn! We thought you’d like to look back on this memory from seven years ago!” They can bring on a smile. They can also bring on pain, When someone - [Finding Meaning In The Aftermath Of An Exploded Soda Can](https://darynkagan.com/finding-meaning-aftermath-exploded-soda-can/) - No one is claiming responsibility. It’s possible they were scared off by my rather loud verbal reaction when I came upon the scene of the crime. A crime, I admit, That probably started with a relatively good intention. Last weekend, someone, A mystery someone, Got the inspired idea to compensate for a lack of cold - [Graduation Fear Confession: My Girl Might Not Get Her Diploma](https://darynkagan.com/graduation-fear-confession-girl-not-get-diploma/) - It’s possible I’m a terrible mother. As I have a crisis of confidence in my girl. She’s supposed to graduate this weekend. Between you and me- I’m not sure she’s going to make it. I scroll through Facebook seeing photo after photo of students boldly holding up their diplomas. “Look at what I’ve done!” Their - [When Mother's Day Means Being The One Who Let's Her Go](https://darynkagan.com/mothers-day-means-one-lets-go/) - This is to be Mother’s Day? Sure doesn’t feel like it’s supposed to go down. I find myself thinking about that this week. A lot. I read countless posts about daughters celebrating with their mothers. About bountiful brunch feasts. About women so thankful to hold their children close. Then, I look around. At my holiday. - [Why I Got Naked To Eat An Orange And Find Out What I'm Missing Out On](https://darynkagan.com/getting-naked-eat-orange-find-im-missing/) - I got naked this week. I get naked every week, Every day, for that matter. This week, I did it for you. For this column. To test a trap I’ve fallen into since high school. The “I’m missing out,” trap. It started with that friend, Perhaps, you know her, too, Dear Reader. The one who - [What If You Have All The Tools You Need To Get Through Tough Times?](https://darynkagan.com/what-if-you-have-all-the-tools-you-need-to-get-through-tough-times/) - That was the easiest birthday gift ever. For the woman who has, Well, a lot. And, And, at the same time, Not the life she planned. She planned on spending the rest of her life with her college sweetheart. The one she’d been married to for 30 years. She planned on setting off on a - [Your Miracle Cure When Raising Teenagers Gets You Down](https://darynkagan.com/miracle-cure-raising-teenagers-gets/) - I’m still shaking my head. At this miracle treatment. The syndrome for which I was told there was no cure. That only time would heal this common malady. The affliction of living with teenagers. Perhaps you know the symptoms, Dear Reader. The rejection of your very being. To be told, That you are a dumb - [Chick Fil A Serving Up Free Breakfast Following I 85 Collapse](https://darynkagan.com/chick-fil-serving-free-breakfast-following-85-collapse/) - Chick Fil A is doing its part to make Atlanta's nightmare commute a little more palatable by offering free breakfast! This follows the collapse of the I 85 interstate Thursday in Atlanta. The fire that brought down a huge span of the highway will basically put Atlanta in a stranglehold for months until the road - [American Nurse Fails At Retirement As He Spreads Hope And Help In Kenya](https://darynkagan.com/kenya-american-nurse-fails-retirement-spreads-hope-help-kenya/) - Nurse anesthetist Steve James is good at a lot of things. Retirement is not one of them. Not since he found his way to Kenya. A journey inspired by the tragedy of losing his late daughter. How do you take pain like that and turn it inside out? Steve James and his wife, Greta, found - [Harry Potter Actor Jim Tavare Cries As He's Reunited With His Dog After Hospital Stay](https://darynkagan.com/harry-potter-actor-jim-tavare-cries-hes-reunited-dog-hospital-stay/) - Harry Potter actor Jim Tavare knows there is no better medicine than love from his dog. Tavare posted a moving video this week showing him getting to see his dog, Mr. Kippy, for the first time after a two-week hospital stay. The Daily Mail reports Mr. Kippy was in the car when Tavare was involved - [The Puppy You Prescribed For My Broken Doggie Heart](https://darynkagan.com/puppy-prescribed-broken-doggie-heart/) - You did this. I’ve said that many times these last few days. You, Dear Reader. You, who took the time to reach out after my beloved Darla Dog passed. You, who encouraged me to get another dog. You, who told me to not wait too long. You, who said the ache would ease. You, who - [McDondald's Worker Jumps Through Drive Thru Window To Save Cop's Life](https://darynkagan.com/mcdondalds-worker-jumps-drive-thru-window-save-cops-life/) - How about a side of hero the next time you drive thru a McDonald's restaurant looking for a burger and some fries? That's what one off-duty police officer got earlier this month. The cop was driving through with her two kids in the car. The young man working the window noticed something was wrong as - [Double Amputee Marine Becomes A Cop And Makes History](https://darynkagan.com/double-amputee-marine-becomes-cop-makes-history/) - So much of Matias Ferreira's life has not gone to plan. He never planned on losing both his legs and becoming a double-amputee while serving with the US Marines in Afghanistan. Once he started healing, Ferriera is the kind of man who was determined to come up with a new dream. Leave it to him to - [Amazing 'When I Play' Short Film Will Have You Shouting For Women's Sports](https://darynkagan.com/amazing-play-short-film-celebrates-women-sports-levels/) - I'm smiling from this love letter to women's sports. Sports of all levels and abilities. Do you move? Do you compete? Have you ever been told you can't because you're a girl? I bet you'll love this short film as much as I do. ESPN put it together in honor of Women's History Month, which happens - [World Traveler Gets Creative To Let Mom Know He Is Fine](https://darynkagan.com/world-traveler-gets-creative-let-mom-know-fine/) - Any traveler knows it's great to see the world, but someone is home wondering if you're okay. Often that means your mom, no matter how old you are. No matter what country you come from. Johnathan Quinonez found that out after he quit his job as an accountant in Brussels, Belgium and took off for - [The Gift Of Watching My Friend's Impossible Dream Come True](https://darynkagan.com/gift-watching-friends-impossible-dream-come-true/) - I stood in the back of a bookstore this week and cried. “Something got in my eye,” I would’ve said if anyone asked. I grabbed one of the paper napkins from the table with a plate of cookies to wipe a nose drip away. Classy, I know. I don’t know why I bothered. I love - [How A Working Mother Would Handle Kids Crashing Her Live Interview](https://darynkagan.com/working-mother-handle-kids-crashing-live-interview/) - And now for the working mother version of the funny, relatable interview seen around the world. Surely, you've seen Professor Robert Kelly being interviewed about South Korea on the BBC when his two young children came in the room. Parents around the world could relate and laughed. Now, a New Zealand comedy duo, Jono and - [What I Really Want My Late Mother To Say To Me](https://darynkagan.com/really-want-able-say-late-mother/) - My mother has cancer. It has metastasized to her forehead. Her eyebrow, actually. She’s in pain. And she’s pissed. This is all horrifying. Sad. And, interesting. Interesting, because my mother passed away last August. I’m living what you might know, Dear Reader. You, who has said goodbye to someone you love. Someone who is gone, - [Dishwasher Is Made A Partner In One Of World's Greatest Restaurants](https://darynkagan.com/dishwasher-made-partner-one-worlds-greatest-restaurants/) - It takes a lot of jobs to make a great restaurant work: chef, server, hostess, and yes, dishwasher. This is what they know at Noma, named one of the best restaurants in the world. Ali Sonko has worked at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark, since it opened in 2003. He emigrated from the West African nation - [Why Ed Sheeran Says An Illegal Act Is The Secret To His Career Success](https://darynkagan.com/ed-sheeran-says-illegal-act-secret-career-success/) - How much is there to love about Ed Sheeran? His songwriting? His sweet voice? His impish grin? Yes, yes and yes. He's become an international superstar. There's his talent, hardwork, his creative way of building his career. And then there is this-- The illegal act that he says is the secret to his success. He - [How My Daughter's Secret Compromised My Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/daughters-secret-compromised-marriage/) - They are the words that inspire panic in any well-meaning parent. “I’m going to tell you something,” my daughter announced this week, but you have to promise me you won’t tell any other member of this family.” Talk about the ultimate morals test. On one hand, I was thrilled and relieved that Daughter trusted me - [Koala Baby Clings To His Mother While She Has Life-Saving Surgery](https://darynkagan.com/baby-koala-clings-mother-life-saving-surgery/) - Leave it to a baby koala named, "Phantom," to be the best smile therapy you will find today. He certainly was the magic potion for his mum who had to undergo surgery at the Australia Zoo. The Courier Mail newspaper reports the mother and her 6-month-old baby were hit by a car along an Australian highway. - [Kind Stranger Takes Lonely Widower On Dream Vacay After Ad For New Fishing Buddy](https://darynkagan.com/lonely-widower-catches-new-buddy-classified-ad-goes-viral/) - You don't have to go fishing far to find a story that will melt your heart like this one. It starts with Ray Johnstone, a lonely widower in Australia who placed an ad for a new fishing buddy when his old friend passed away. Sky News reports that 22-year-old Mati Batsinilas saw that ad and - [The Alligator And Canoe It Took To Finally Legalize Our Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/alligator-canoe-took-finally-legalize-marriage/) - It’s possible our marriage wasn’t even legal. It’s not like my husband and I were in a crazy hurry to get married. We dated for two years. Carefully read and answered a book with 276 pre-marital questions. And yet, somehow we got hitched without what Husband said he would never do. “We can’t get married - [How Losing Love Has Sent Me Into Crazy Land](https://darynkagan.com/losing-love-sent-crazy-land/) - I’ve become that lady. The crazy one. You probably figured this was coming, Dear Reader. Checking in each week to see if I’ve become her yet. Indeed, I have. The crazy lady who misses her dog. Beyond misses. Most days, I ache. It’s been about two months since DarlaDog passed. I still swear I can - [How A Sweet Boy And A Truck Reminded Me The Secret To Love](https://darynkagan.com/sweet-boy-truck-reminded-secret-love/) - A sweet boy from high school taught me something about love this week. Of course, he is no longer a boy. Now a man. A husband. A father. An incredibly happy one last July as he walked along Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France. Do you remember the evil that happened that night? As the - [City Council Here She Comes! Teenager Wins Right To Run For Office](https://darynkagan.com/city-council-comes-teenager-wins-right-run-office/) - When most teenagers might focus on getting a ton of likes on social media, Mary Pat Hector dreams of getting votes to elect her to city council. Talk about a motivated young woman. Mary Pat is 19 and a sophomore at Spellman College in Decatur, Georgia. She set her sights on running for city council - [American Survivor Of Nice, France Truck Attack Is Finally Home Six Months Later #EXCLUSIVE](https://darynkagan.com/american-survivor-of-nice-france-truck-attack-is-finally-home-six-months-later/) - Home. There is nowhere survivor Greg Krentzman and his family would rather be. After more than six months in France, they can finally say that's exactly where they are. Home in California. Their ordeal started July 14th, Bastille Day. Greg and his French-born wife, Sophie, were walking down with their 10-year-old on her scooter. "My - [Crushing Winter's Energy's Costs With A Free App](https://darynkagan.com/crushing-winters-energys-costs-with-a-free-app/) - This article on a creative way to bring down your winter energy cost is paid content that I thought could be very helpful. I know I found some good tips. One of the biggest ways our budget takes an enormous wallop is during winter months. That's why it is a good idea to make sure - [Why I've Never Needed Another Birthday Present Since I Was Seven Years Old](https://darynkagan.com/why-ive-never-needed-another-birthday-present-since-i-was-seven-years-old/) - Welcome to my birthday week. Which I share, not to encourage you to send a gift. Rather the exact opposite. Don’t bother. There’s no need, As I long ago received my best gift ever. All others have always paled in comparison. This one showed up 2 1/2 weeks before my seventh birthday. A gift I - [Why I Gave My Phone Number To A Guy At A Bar This Week](https://darynkagan.com/why-i-gave-my-phone-number-to-a-guy-at-a-bar-this-week/) - I wrote down my phone number and passed it to a man at a bar this week. Asked him to call me. Please, please call me! My husband is, Well, So incredibly proud. As we have a crisis brewing. With the new laptop I bought. - [How Our Family Earned 60,000 Bonus Miles In 2016 Buying Stuff We Were Going To Buy Anyway](https://darynkagan.com/family-earned-60000-bonus-miles-2016-buying-stuff-going-buy-anyway/) - "How do you earn so many miles?" That's a big question our family gets all the time. Miles Husband says it's time to explain one of his most important, successful techniques to you. Remember this scene from the movie, "The Graduate?" https://youtu.be/Dug-G9xVdVs In that same spirit, Miles Husband just wants to say one word to - [The Stranger Who Exposed Me As The Cheater I Am](https://darynkagan.com/stranger-exposed-cheater/) - The stranger’s knock on my front door exposed me. For the cheater I am. One unexpected visitor’s request making me realize I’ve gone down a path I never intended. How I’d stopped appreciating what I have here at home. My eye started wandering innocently enough. By clicking around a few websites. Checking out other people. - [The Moment I Realized I Failed Parenting. How About You?](https://darynkagan.com/moment-realized-failed-parenting/) - My daughter will tell you I’m crazy. She doesn’t understand. At all. Somewhere between two days before Christmas and New Year’s Eve I simply had a revelation. That I messed up. Not my mother-in-law’s chocolate pie. Not my first novel. Though, I certainly did a fine job of making a disaster of both of those. - [The Lies My Dog And I Told Each Other](https://darynkagan.com/lies-dog-told/) - What can I say? I lied to my dog. Each day for almost 17 years I declared, “You are the smartest! The prettiest! The most clever! Best dog ever.” Well, the day she ate the stuffing out of my neighbor’s antique chair, I might’ve had a few other choice words. Still, I bet that day, - [Freaking Out With Gratitude For Incredible Gifts You Forgot You Have](https://darynkagan.com/freaking-gratitude-incredible-gifts-forgot/) - Are you, too, giving gratitude for making it through another holiday season? The parties and gifts were great, but it's time to get back to real life. Before you do, please check out this awesome video from a church in North Carolina. No matter your religion, I think you'll get a smile and a wonderful - [The Joy Of Catching My Husband In A Love Affair](https://darynkagan.com/joy-catching-husband-love-affair/) - I never expected to catch my husband doing this. Not this husband. Not during what should be a season of gift giving. Oh, sure. Every wife is shocked. Says her man would be the last to love another girl. I can say it with fortitude. Not my husband. Not this girl. But it has happened. - [Taking The Temperature In My Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/taking-the-temperature-in-my-marriage/) - It’s not that I’m blaming anyone. After all, the terms were right there in bold print in the Mommy contract. Maybe you signed the same one, Dear Reader? The one where you swear you don’t believe in germs. Not when it comes to taking care of your ailing family. You convince yourself you’re invincible, Have - [The First Holidays Without My Mom](https://darynkagan.com/first-holidays-without-mom/) - In case you were wondering, Yes, that was me. The lady pushing her buggy down the aisle of the grocery store right before Thanksgiving. Tears streaming down her face. That was me. Tears were not the plan. Yukon Golds for mashed potatoes, Elbow macaroni for mac n’cheese. A few other things I had forgotten. That - [Books I Love For 2016 Holiday Gifts](https://darynkagan.com/books-love-2016-holiday-gifts/) - Time is running short. Your gift list is not. Whether it's Secret Santa at work, a girlfriend, your sister, you mom, you need that extra gift. One she'll really enjoy. https://youtu.be/kfeYkFAJPII Here are some I can highly recommend: “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And - [Daryn On HLN- Growing Up With Florence Henderson's Wonderful Real Life Kids](https://darynkagan.com/daryn-hln-growing-florence-hendersons-wonderful-real-life-kids/) - The world knew Florence Henderson as a talented actress and of course, as Carol Brady, the mom on The Brady Bunch. Those of us who grew up with her kids in Beverly Hills, knew her as, "Mrs. Bernstein," the mother to the some of the nicest kids any of us knew. When Florence Henderson passed - [One TV Mom Figures Out How To Have It All](https://darynkagan.com/one-tv-mom-figures/) - My friend, Lori, is nuts. Some would say. Who walks away from a job she worked more than 20 years to get? A job she loves. A job with perks. Who does that? A certain kind of woman. Also known as, A mom. “My - [Could Thanksgiving This Year Be Any More Awkward?](https://darynkagan.com/thanksgiving-year-awkward/) - This would appear to be some incredibly poor planning. Thanksgiving. There is no holiday I love more. The spirit of gratitude. The food. You, too, Dear Reader? You are days away from going to great effort to gather around an abundant table of food with your family. You might even spend a lot of money - [My Romantic Gesture That Didn't Go According To Plan](https://darynkagan.com/romantic-gesture-didnt-go-according-plan/) - I take you into a romantic and intimate moment of my marriage this week. A chance to show my husband how well I know him. How much I love him. A few days ago, I was walking back from the grocery store. Along this path between the store and our house. A path where Husband - [Stuff I Love: Discounts For Friends Of Daryn](https://darynkagan.com/stuff-love-discounts-friends-daryn/) - I'm trying something new this week. Advertisers are passing discounts and deals to me. And I want to pass them onto you. Please let me know what you think. Happy to do more of this. Or I can just keep pushing out the Good News. I figure why not do both? This week: 30% off - [Finding Happiness In A Can Of Soup](https://darynkagan.com/finding-happiness-can-soup/) - I am not alone in this. I realized the other day. Thoughts of what it means to be alone. What it means to be happy. A seemingly spontaneous conversation with one of my teens brought this back. The memory splashing so fresh as we stood in the kitchen. The same kitchen I stood in when - [TODAY Show HerMoney Correspondent Jean Chatzky Features Daryn, Husband And Miles Hobby](https://darynkagan.com/today-show-hermoney-correspondent-jean-chatzky-features-daryn-husband-miles-hobby/) - There are too many great things to share with you about TODAY Show financial correspondent Jean Chatzky. She's smart, talks and explains money in approachable, interesting ways. And she's her own best success story. She had to teach herself smart money moves. Such an honor when Jean invited me on her HerMoney Podcast. We talked - [New Study Says Your Dog Really Can Tell Time...Make That Smell Time](https://darynkagan.com/new-study-says-dog-really-can-tell-time-make-smell-time/) - I stopped wearing a watch years ago. Not because I can tell time looking at my phone. Not because I’m so carefree I don’t care about the time of day. All valid, modern reasons. I don’t wear a watch for one simple reason. I have a dog. My DarlaDog’s sense of time is so spot - [This Statement About True Love Will Make My English Teacher Cringe](https://darynkagan.com/true-statement-love-will-make-english-teacher-cringe/) - Chickens. This week it was chickens. The backdrop for the life lesson that showed up. That opportunity to be a better human. So, there is this chicken club in town. Every few months I get together with fellow crazies raising chickens in their backyards. Always, a toe dipper who shows up. Someone who is thinking - [How I Got Myself Into A Holiday Pickle Without Even Trying](https://darynkagan.com/got-holiday-pickle-without-even-trying/) - Let me start with the relief. My neighbor still talks to me. Even since it happened. That unfortunate incident. Also known as her holiday party. She’s a relatively new neighbor. Who knew she brought with her a legendary holiday tradition? “Come To My Naughty Santa Party” the invitation read early in the holiday season last - [Guest Blogger: The Gift Of Shifting Into Yes](https://darynkagan.com/shifting-into-yes/) - (Note from Daryn: Guest Blogger Valerie Hartman stops into DarynKagan.com to share her big lesson about shifting into yes. Instead of always thinking something isn't possible, maybe, just maybe it is.) It started in the spring of 2015. My daughter casually mentioned a conversation she had recently had with her Dad. She told me that - [Cop Drives Man Over 100 Miles After Traffic Stop](https://darynkagan.com/cop-drives-man-100-miles-traffic-stop/) - This is so not the white cop pulls over African American man story we've been seeing the news lately. Mark Ross knew he was in trouble as soon as he saw the flashing lights in the rear view mirror. Actually, the trouble, the tragedy, started hours before. Ross was in Ohio when he got the - [The People Walker Walks People Instead Of Dogs](https://darynkagan.com/people-walker-walks-people-instead-dogs/) - Chuck McCarthy is a people walker. He also happens to be a struggling actor who was looking for a way to earn some actual cash around Los Angeles while he goes for his big dream. He thought about dog walking. Chuck loves dogs. Loves walking. Poop, not so much. So he got creative and came - [Judge Allows Inmate To Meet Baby Son For First Time](https://darynkagan.com/judge-allows-inmate-meet-baby-son-first-time/) - An exception, a rare act of compassion for an inmate. A man who happens also to be a new father. This is nothing they teach you in law school. Or how to be a judge. Still, Louisville, Kentucky Judge Amber Wolf calls this "probably one of the best things I've ever done." Judge Wolf pushed - [Bridesmaids Hold Rescue Puppies Instead Of Bouquets](https://darynkagan.com/bridesmaids-hold-rescue-puppies-instead-bouquets/) - Rescue puppies, talk about the perfect "Something Borrowed" for an incredible wedding. That's what one bride who has dedicated herself to rescuing animals made happen for her special day. TheDodo.com has a great story about the wedding of Sarah Mollouck and Matt Crain. Sarah works for Pitties Love Peace which is a rescue organization in - [The Treasures I Never Expected To Inherit From My Mother](https://darynkagan.com/treasures-never-expected-inherit-mother/) - They are not mentioned in my mother’s will. And yet, It is so clear she left them to me. True treasures. So grand, I never planned on an inheritance so rich. Probably you should wait, Before you start fantasizing about how I will spend the millions of dollars, Move into incredible homes, Drip myself in - [How My Mother Shocked Me In One Of Our Final Moments Together](https://darynkagan.com/mother-shocked-one-final-moments-together/) - Leave it to my mom to depart this world with an incredible story. A surprise. A mystery. This one unfolded during the early morning hours in her darkened hospital room in the days before she passed a few weeks ago. Just me and her. Oh, how I’m thankful for those stolen private moments available only - [He Put A Ring On It! Beyonce's Lead Dancer Gets Engaged During Concert](https://darynkagan.com/put-ring-beyonces-lead-dancer-gets-engaged-concert/) - One of superstar singer Beyonce's most popular songs is "All The Single Ladies." You can't help put repeat the refrain over and over, "If you liked it should've put a ring on it." I hear you singing it right now. One of her back up dancers, John Silver, must've been listening closely when they performed - [Beautiful Story Behind College Football Star And Boy With Autism Bonding Over Lunch](https://darynkagan.com/beautiful-story-behind-college-football-star-and-boy-with-autism-bonding-over-lunch/) - A college football star and a boy with autism bonding over lunch. It's now the photo that has melted hearts around the world. It happened last month when Florida State football players paid a visit to Monford Middle School in Talahassee, Florida. Star wide receiver Travis Rudolph spied one kid, Bo Paske, eating lunch by himself. - [Man And His Goose: The Love Connection He Never Planned On](https://darynkagan.com/man-goose-love-connection-never-planned/) - A certain goose in Oregon knows there's no telling where you will meet the love of your life. Yes, goose. CBS News' Steve Hartman has the story of a man who thought he was just doing a nice thing for a struggling bird. He never realized he was about to become the unexpected match for one - [Amazing Reason Gene Simmons of KISS Has Never Done Drugs Or Gotten Drunk](https://darynkagan.com/amazing-reason-gene-simmons-of-kiss-has-never-done-drugs-or-gotten-drunk/) - This story about rocker Gene Simmons of KISS is not what you would expect to learn about a legendary music star. Simmons tells The Los Angeles Times that he's never done drugs or gotten drunk. That's incredible enough from a man who has been a superstar in the music industry for decades and the reason why will - [Never Enough Time When You Love Someone](https://darynkagan.com/never-enough-time-when-you-love-someone/) - A stranger took my breath away this week. What would you do if a woman you just met told you, “I’m really not a risk taker,” followed by, “I married a man who told me on our first date that he only had 18 months to live.” “How’d that work out for you?” I couldn’t - [Stolen Gold Medal Leads To Unlikely Friendship](https://darynkagan.com/stolen-gold-medal-leads-unlikely-friendship/) - The Olympic gold medal Joe Jacobi won at the Barcelona Olympics in kayaking has brought him a lot of joy since 1992. No wonder he was devastated when it was stolen from his car a few weeks ago. Little did Joe realize, that incident, that loss was about to bring him a wonderful gift and - [Impossible Trash Can Toss Scores A's For Entire Chemistry Class](https://darynkagan.com/impossible-trash-can-toss-scores-entire-chemistry-class/) - Consider this-- the impossible trash can toss heard across the campus of The Ohio State University. One student, Vinny Forte, got what seemed like a impossible dare from the professor in organic chemistry. Make the shot from across the lecture hall and everyone in the class would get an "A" on the first quiz of - [Granting My Mother's Final Wish](https://darynkagan.com/granting-mothers-final-wish/) - I wonder if they know how ridiculous they sound. Those doctors. The ones trying to sell my mother on further treatment. How do you convince a woman months away from her 80th birthday that she should sign up a cacophony of torture? “We can put in a feeding tube for a couple of weeks,” their - [Why I Can't Do The Facebook "7-Day Love My Spouse" Challenge](https://darynkagan.com/cant-facebook-love-spouse-challenge/) - It would be so romantic. A wonderful tribute to my husband. I get that. And still, I can’t do it. I’m talking about the latest viral thing floating around Facebook. Have you seen this? The “7-Day Love Your Spouse” Challenge. The goal is to post photos of your beloved spouse for seven days including some - [My Family's Shameful Travel Confession](https://darynkagan.com/familys-shameful-travel-confession/) - Pressure. I’m feeling it. The need to declare allegiance to a team. To claim certain values. A way of life. Hold your political horses. You know we don’t go there in this space. And yet, With summer vacation wrapping up, another round of trips ready to post in the digital scrapbook, There feels this need - [Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Manuel Has The Best Nickname In Sports!](https://darynkagan.com/olympic-gold-medalist-simone-manuel-best-nickname-sports/) - America fell in love with Olympic swimmer Simone Manuel Thursday night when she tied for the gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle. Her time of 52.70 tied her with 16-year-old Canadian Penny Oleksiak, the pair sharing a new Olympic record and both receiving a gold medal. That makes her the first African American woman to - [American Gold Medal Swimmer Lilly King Calls Out Drug Cheats When Olympic Officials Won't](https://darynkagan.com/american-gold-medal-swimmer-lilly-king-calls-drug-cheats-olympic-officials-wont/) - American Gold Medal Swimmer Lilly King is proving to be a champion in more ways than just the shiny hardware she can now wear proudly around her neck. King has been outspoken on drug cheats being allowed to compete in the Olympics. USA Today's Christine Brennan has been doing a wonderful job of covering the - [When Your Friend's Mom Is So Much More Than Just Your Friend's Mom](https://darynkagan.com/friends-mom-much-friends-mom/) - Please help me. I need a word. A word we don’t have in English. One that we really need. That I need. Today. For today is a sad day. My friend’s mom has passed away. A woman I’ve known more than 30 years. A woman who has made me laugh. Made me feel loved. A - [High School Cross Country Team Trains With Shelter Dogs](https://darynkagan.com/high-school-cross-country-team-trains-shelter-dogs/) - Talk about the best idea for a high school cross country workout ever! Students from St. Joseph's High School in Santa Maria, CA took shelter dogs out for their morning run. The idea is the brainchild of Coach Luis Escobar. Coach Escobar explained on Facebook, "Each team member was assigned a dog and we went - [How This Teenager From A Tiny African Nation Is Swimming Through Personal Pain](https://darynkagan.com/swimmer-tiny-african-nation-swimming-personal-pain/) - Swimming events at the upcoming Rio Olympics will no doubt be some of the most popular of the entire games. USA, Russia, Poland, Australia--they all have strong contenders heading into the games. But one of the best stories might be about a teenager from the small African nation of Malawi. Save your surfing over to - [Why It Only Took 24 Seconds For My Daughter To Make Me Cry](https://darynkagan.com/took-24-seconds-daughter-make-cry/) - I might as well go ahead and tell you. Self-report. Spill. If I don’t, surely, you’ll hear about it from my daughter. Same daughter who is about to become a senior in high school. Same daughter I thoroughly embarrassed this week. It all started with an invitation I never saw coming. “My senior class pictures - [Something Smells Funny In My Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/something-smells-funny-marriage/) - Something smells funny in my marriage. And by something, I mean someone. And by someone, I mean my husband. He doesn’t smell bad. Rather, wonderful, I must say. But he smells funny, as in his sense of smell. He smells everything. I interrupt our upcoming fourth wedding anniversary to ask, “Why didn’t you mention this - [My Bathroom Secret I Think You Just Might Understand](https://darynkagan.com/bathroom-secret-think-just-might-understand/) - My husband caught me. Not in a secret, per se. But certainly something I’ve been able to keep it to myself through almost four years of marriage. “Sure does take you a long time to blow dry your hair,” he remarked the other day. “Yeah, sure does,” I agreed pointing to what I thought was - [Facebook Posts-Yeah, I Said This About The Orlando Massacre](https://darynkagan.com/facebook-posts-yeah-said-orlando-massacre/) - Millions have had their say about the massacre early Sunday morning at The Pulse nightclub in Orlando. Here are a couple of my thoughts, just in case we're not connected on Facebook. And we can always spend more time together with my book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding - [When You Know Who Your Family Is, Even If You Look Different Than Others](https://darynkagan.com/know-family-even-looks-different-others/) - You’ll forgive my cousin. She’s a little weepy today. Her Facebook feed popped up one of those anniversary photos that remind you where you were a year ago. What a photo. What a year. Amanda and her husband, Adam, were in Ethiopia. Meeting their son for the first time. In person, that is. They met - [What Can You Do With Joy When There Is So Much Hurt In The World?](https://darynkagan.com/can-joy-much-hurt-world/) - It was just supposed to be a short vacation. Not a chance to learn yet another life lesson. A chance to not work my brain and my heart so hard. That’s what I was thinking last week as my travel wizard husband pulled one of his miles miracles and flew us off to Costa Rica. - [Sure Fire Way To Find Out You're A Terrible Person](https://darynkagan.com/best-way-find-im-terrible-person/) - We’re having a popularity crisis at our house. What do you expect in house filled with teens? How sweet of you to offer your sincere compassion about our kids. Actually, you can save your concern. For them. They are fine. It’s we parents who are not doing so well. In case you haven’t heard-- We - [Co-Workers Surprise Nurse With Supplies When She Unexpectedly Wins Custody Of Infant Granddaughter](https://darynkagan.com/co-workers-surprise-nurse-supplies-unexpectedly-wins-custody-infant-granddaughter/) - Sara Putman's life is full of surprises these days, beginning with unexpectedly winning custody of her 7-month old granddaughter, Isabella. Inside Edition reports that a co-worker overheard Sara talking about how overwhelmed she was with all the supplies she was going to need. The court-ordered decision came as a surprise, and between Putman's upcoming shift and - [Rattlesnake Bites Groom During Wedding Shoot](https://darynkagan.com/rattlesnake-bites-groom-wedding-shoot/) - A rattlesnake biting your groom while your taking your wedding photos might not seem like the most uplifting of stories, but I'm sharing it because nothing like this to see how a new couple will weather the storms that come everyone's way. The Today Show reports newlyweds Johnny Benson and Laura Loretz did what so - [Governor's Wife Takes Summer Job Waiting Tables](https://darynkagan.com/governors-wife-takes-summer-job-waiting-tables/) - A governor's wife is turning heads in a seaside town in Maine where she has taken a summer job waiting tables. Ann LePage is the First Lady of Maine. Sounds glamorous. Most of the year she works her tail off supporting causes around her state. Her husband, Paul LePage, makes $70,000 a year, making him - [Meet The Woman Reuniting Military Dogs With Their Veterans](https://darynkagan.com/meet-woman-reuniting-military-dogs-veterans/) - Flight attendant Molli Oliver has two great passions--military dogs and veterans who have given brave service to the United States. She's now on a mission to bring valiant partners back together again. She's reuniting retiring military dogs with the veterans they served alongside. And she's doing it at her own expense. Come along as she - [Funny Horse Keeps Reporter Laughing As He Fails At Stand Up After Stand Up](https://darynkagan.com/funny-horse-keeps-reporter-laughing-fails-stand-stand/) - So many of my current and fellow reporters will appreciate this reporter for Greek TV as he tries to shoot a stand up with a teasing horse determined to make him laugh. The Daily Mail says the reporter was trying to do a story for Makedonia TV, which was to include a stand up with - [Grandson Shares Grandmother's Delightful, Polite Google Search](https://darynkagan.com/grandson-shares-grandmothers-delightful-polite-google-search/) - Ben John didn't know if he would be the only one who would be delighted, but when he came upon his grandmother's Google search, he knew he had to share it. The BBC reports Ben John was at his gran's house in Britain to do some laundry when he asked to borrow her laptop. He - [Best Friends From Compton Make Good On Pact To Succeed](https://darynkagan.com/best-friends-compton-make-good-pact-succeed/) - Compton is perhaps not the first place a reporter would think to do a story on six academic superstars. That would be a mistake. A mistake to underestimate the power of girlfriends. Six girls who made a pact in middle school. CBS News reports that if one was going to succeed, they were all going - [NFL Player Asks To Adopt Shelter Dog That's "Been Here A Long Time"](https://darynkagan.com/nfl-player-asks-adopt-shelter-dog-thats-long-time/) - Plenty of good hearts walk into rescue shelters looking to adopt a shelter dog. Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ronnie Stanley and his girlfriend had even a higher mission when they went to BARCS. The shelter shares the story on their Facebook page where they say Stanley specifically asked, “We are looking for a dog that’s been here a - [9/11 Fire Chief Finally Gets Funeral 15 Years Later, A Twist Of His Own Generosity](https://darynkagan.com/911-fire-chief-finally-gets-funeral-15-years-later-twist-generosity/) - A New York City fire chief finally received his proper funeral this week 15 years after he was killed during the 9/11 attacks. The beautiful twist of the story, the funeral was finally able to happen because of one of his own selfless acts. Batallion chief Lawrence T. Stack was 58-years-old when he died. He'd - [Orlando Victim's Grandmother Gets Amazing, Compassionate Treatment Onboard JetBlue Flight](https://darynkagan.com/orlando-victims-grandmother-gets-amazing-compassionate-treatment-onboard-jetblue-flight/) - It's the flight no grandmother should have to take. When the grandmother of one of the victim's of the Orlando nightclub massacre got onboard a JetBlue flight to go to her grandson's funeral, the flight attendants made sure she was surrounded with love and compassion. Flight attendant Kelly Davis Karas shared on her Facebook page - [National Aquarium Moving Its Dolphins To Ocean Sanctuary By 2020](https://darynkagan.com/national-aquarium-moving-dolphins-ocean-sanctuary-2020/) - Dolphins at the National Aquarium in Baltimore have reason to smile today. The Aquarium is announcing plans to move its eight bottleneck dolphins its performing pool in Baltimore to nation's first oceanside sanctuary in Florida or the Caribbean by 2020. The Baltimore Sun reports this is also a huge victory for animal activists who have protested for - [Adam Levine Will Pay Funeral Expenses For Slain Voice Star Christina Grimmie](https://darynkagan.com/adam-levine-will-pay-funeral-expenses-slain-voice-star-christina-grimmie/) - Maroon 5 lead singer And "The Voice" Coach Adam Levine would love to be able to turn back time before this weekend. Before the crazed gunman opened fire in an Orlando nightclub. And the day before that when another murderer killed up and coming singer Christina Grimmie. The two have been connected since Levine mentored - [Comfort Dogs Arriving In Orlando To Help People Grieve](https://darynkagan.com/comfort-dogs-arriving-orlando-help-people-grieve/) - Comfort dogs are arriving in Orlando to help people grieve following the dispicible mass shooting at The Pulse nightclub over the weekend. WFAA reports the dogs are ready to be pet and lend an ear to anyone who needs one. They've come with their handlers from Texas, Tennessee, Ohio and six other states. In a - [When You Wonder What Else Can Go Wrong](https://darynkagan.com/wonder-else-can-go-wrong/) - I’m no doctor. I don’t even play one on TV. Yet, I’m about to make a bold diagnosis. Because I know a case of this when I see it. A case of “What Else-itis.” My friend, Tricia, has it right now. A freakish house fire burned down half her home last Fall. The company where - [The Three Words That Brought Me Peace](https://darynkagan.com/three-words-brought-peace/) - The decks have cleared. In the life of a woman whom I’ve never met, Yet who felt compelled to share her story with me. Folks do that. I guess that’s the gift I get for sharing my bumpy road to happy here on these pages. A gift I love. She shared how her career had - [My Favorite Food Confession No One Understands](https://darynkagan.com/favorite-food-confession-no-one-understands/) - I could blame it on my mother-in-law. This week’s challenge, that is. My mother-in-law, truly a lovely lady. So delightful that when she came to town this week, she brought with her a container of homemade oatmeal cookies. My mouth waters just thinking about what might be, the best oatmeal cookie I’ve ever had. Perfectly - [How Many Phones Do You Need To Connect Anyway?](https://darynkagan.com/many-phones-need-connect-anyway/) - A phone diet. I know I need to go on one. To cut back. Like any other situation in my life where I know I’ve over done it. This now applies to the phone. Not so much about time spent on phone. Simply the number of phones. Have you done your own phone math, Dear - [Much More To Magnificence Than Just Motherhood](https://darynkagan.com/magnificence-without-motherhood/) - For you, Magnificent Woman--who is a creator whether or not you have kids, Mother's Day. https://youtu.be/XYZ9aZf3sgc I actually write about magnificent aunts and women without children in my book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” And here is - [Meredith Vieira Show Features Daryn And "Hope Possible"](https://darynkagan.com/meredith-vieira-show-features-daryn-hope-possible/) - A huge, "Thank you!" to Meredith Vieira and her staff for hosting me on her daytime talk show. They truly gave me the star treatment. My own dressing room with snacks! Hair, make up, and a really long segment talking about my new book, "Hope Possible." We talked about losing my job at CNN, reinventing - [The Six Words Guaranteed To Unfix My Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/five-words-guaranteed-unfix-marriage/) - Watch out what you wish for. I realize now. I went into the new year hoping for doors to open. Surely, I didn’t realize I had to more specific. As in professional doors. Because doors are opening alright. All around me. There’s my car door which won’t stay shut. Our dishwasher broke its seal. It - [Stuff I Love: "How To Save A Life"](https://darynkagan.com/stuff-love-save-life/) - It's a giddy day around here because "How To Save A Life" is now available. If you're looking for a new book that will make your heart sing and maybe tear up a bit, please check out this new novella by my friend, international bestselling author, Kristin Harmel. Here's the description: "When a pediatric oncology - [The Unvarnished Truth About How Many Friends I Have](https://darynkagan.com/truth-number-friends/) - Friends. I’m studying the new math. Friends Addition. As in, how many friends do you have? There’s that ever-present number you see on Facebook. How many friends to you have there? As if, the majority of those contacts are real friends. And now, I’ve come across this study. It has me thinking friends and numbers. - [The Unexpected Price Of My Dream Coming True](https://darynkagan.com/unexpected-price-dream-coming-true/) - I had a bill come due this week. The kind of bill they don’t tell you about. The price you must pay for a dream coming true. You could’ve walked right past us and not known what a bittersweet moment was taking place. A simple visit with my two nephews. My brother’s boys. The boys - [My HLN Interview: I Can Go Home Again!](https://darynkagan.com/hln-interview-can-go-home/) - Feeling so grateful to my professional family at HLN, first cousins to CNN. The beautiful Christi Paul invited me to come talk about reinventing my career, finding love and becoming a mom. The producers also found a ton of clips from my CNN career. Those moments seem like yesterday and another life. Just in case - [The Lesson Waiting For Me On My Shower Floor](https://darynkagan.com/lesson-waiting-shower-floor/) - This is not the place to boast. Or brag. It’s not what I like to do here. And yet. I find the need to share. To make hooray. For me. For something I did this week. Something that until I did it, seemed far beyond my reach. My possibility. It happened on Wednesday. Okay. Here - [How My Teen Is Never Too Busy To Call Me...Old](https://darynkagan.com/how-my-teen-is-never-too-busy-to-call-me-old/) - I thought I was going for lunch. With my daughter. Turns out I was headed for a reality check. From my daughter. “Why don’t you call ahead and make sure they are open?” I suggested playing the role of the boring, plan-ahead mother. I play it well. Seconds later a concerned look spread across Daughter’s - [When Your Life Doesn't Fit Inside A Hallmark Card](https://darynkagan.com/when-your-life-doesnt-fit-inside-a-hallmark-card/) - I took the trip again this year. Because I forgot. What a big waste of time it is. Yet, each year, I feel compelled to go. The event is big and must be marked. And so, I make the trip. Down the card aisle at the local drug store. I pick up countless cards. Not - [Stuff I Love: Sharing Discounts I Get With You](https://darynkagan.com/stuff-i-love-awesome-discounts-for-you/) - I'm trying something new this week. Advertisers to my site share a lot of discounts with me. I'm now passing them along to you. So, take a look, if you think there are good deals, use them and share this page. Also, let me know what you think of the page by leaving a - [How A Stranger Taught Me Secret To Truly Helping A Sick Friend](https://darynkagan.com/stranger-taught-me-secret-to-truly-helping-a-sick-friend/) - I stole an hour of a remarkable woman’s time this week. For Barbara, time surely is a precious commodity. For all of us, truly. Barbara just knows it better than most of us. I would think she had better things to do than spend time talking to me, a stranger. See, Barbara is fighting for - [New Christmas China Sets The Table For Better Times Ahead](https://darynkagan.com/new-christmas-china-sets-the-table-for-better-times-ahead/) - This actually appears in my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” If you like this piece, please check out the book. Sometimes you just can’t fake happy. You’ve suffered a loss that’s just too big. A friend reminded - [The Secret My Dog Has Known About Me For 16 Years](https://darynkagan.com/the-secret-my-dog-has-known-about-me-for-16-years/) - If you love your dog, you might enjoy my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” It includes a number of essays about loving your dog. I’m thinking about my dog. Always, my dog. And the heavy load. Such a - [WXIA-TV Hope Possible: Former CNN Anchor's Life of Reinvention](https://darynkagan.com/wxia-tv-hope-possible-former-cnn-anchors-life-of-reinvention/) - Thank you, Jaye Watson and WXIA-TV for such a beautiful piece! Though, Pisa, my crazy, 3-legged cat still complaining. She feels she deserved more screen time. But then, Pisa thinks she deserves more everything. If you’re looking for an uplifting book, written in really short chapters, please check out Daryn’s new book, “Hope Possible: A - [Dear Miles Husband: Do I Have Enough Miles To Go On My Dream Trip?](https://darynkagan.com/dear-miles-husband-do-i-have-enough-miles-to-go-on-my-dream-trip/) - Each week, Miles Husband answers one question from a newsletter subscriber, since chances are other folks can learn from one person's question. This week's question is from Patrice: "If I am booking a flight to Europe on American Airlines can I combine American airline miles and Alaskan miles to book one flight? Or would you - [Craziest Thing Miles Husband Has Done Chasing Miles And Points](https://darynkagan.com/craziest-thing-miles-husband-has-done-chasing-miles-and-points/) - If you’re looking for an uplifting book, written in really short chapters, please check out Daryn’s new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” How crazy is this game chasing miles and points? It starts with a simple, "Hmmmm? Can this - [The Burden Of Caring About Proper Grammar-It's Not An Easy Life](https://darynkagan.com/what-happened-when-the-grammar-police-came-pounding-down-my-door/) - If you like this story, please check out my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” Me is in some big trouble! Now, that I have your attention... And trust me, I know I have your attention. Because - ["Love And Romance Radio" Plays Host To Daryn & Husband](https://darynkagan.com/daryn-husband-stop-by-love-and-romance-radio/) - If you’re looking for an uplifting book, written in really short chapters, please check out Daryn’s new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” Like the overweight person who has lost a ton of weight and still sees a fat person - ["Life Matters'" John St. Augustine Invites Daryn Kagan For Some Great Conversation](https://darynkagan.com/life-matters-john-st-augustine-invites-me-for-some-great-conversation/) - John St. Augustine and I go back to even before our Oprah Radio days. A friendship was formed was the first day he emailed me saying, "Hey, I like what you're doing with uplifting and positive news on DarynKagan.com. Many a dinner and phone conversation has followed over the years. What a delight to join - ["The List TV" Features Our Crazy Frequent Flyer Hobby: Husband's National Media Debut](https://darynkagan.com/the-list-tv-features-our-crazy-frequent-flyer-hobby-husbands-national-media-debut/) - So, we get a Facebook message from the folks at, "The List," a syndicated television show. "Can we talk to you about this crazy thing you guys do--collecting frequent flyer miles without flying and cashing those miles and points to take outrageous trips around the world?" "Sure!" we said. Beyond thrilled with the way host Jimmy - [My Husband Problem That Might Not Get Your Sympathy](https://darynkagan.com/the-husband-problem-that-might-not-get-your-sympathy/) - If you like this story, please check out my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” As husband problems go, this is not one likely elicit much sympathy. I get that. So, you know the kind of man - [My True Valentine Day's Confession](https://darynkagan.com/my-true-valentine-days-confession/) - It's time for my Valentine's Day Confession. Time to reveal who I have been with for the majority of my adult Valentine's Days. It hasn't been pretty. I hope by sharing will make yours better this year. https://youtu.be/rSHaEbfpuxA Please check out my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding - [Love Books? You Might Hate Me For Saying This](https://darynkagan.com/love-books-you-might-hate-me-for-saying-this/) - If you like this story, please check out my new book, “Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, And My Dog, Always My Dog.” You’d think I’d know better. To dive back into one of these relationships. I mean, really. And yet, Here I go again. - [The CRAZY, Never-Before-Seen Thing I Saw On Our Family Trip To Africa](https://darynkagan.com/the-crazy-never-before-seen-thing-i-saw-on-our-family-trip-to-africa/) - Baby zebra finds life source from mama. For American teens, wifi is like mother's milk.[/caption] Did we suddenly get engaged conversationalists eager to make eye contact? Oh, that I could report that. More like Sampson losing his super powers with his hair cut off. “No wifi?” they squeaked, as if we were talking to them - [Why My Ex-Boyfriend Said I Could Tell This Formerly Wonderful Story](https://darynkagan.com/why-my-ex-boyfriend-said-i-could-tell-this-story/) - https://youtu.be/CUynyONxICs As break-ups go, this was one of my yuckier. The details still so clear, all these years later. We met soon after I moved to Atlanta to work for CNN. He also had just moved to the city to do a one-year surgical fellowship. I was so sure he was The One. A year - [The Shocking Thing I Discovered In My Teen's Secret, Hidden Letter](https://darynkagan.com/the-shocking-thing-i-discovered-in-my-teens-secret-hidden-letter/) - I didn’t mean to snoop. I swear. I wasn’t looking to stumble across my teen’s secret letter. A letter bubbling over with emotion. With a broken heart. With defiance. She will stand by her man. “I have yet to hear a legitimate gripe about him,” she wails. “I’m not going to stop seeing him no - [Is The World Too Scary To Travel? What To Do?](https://darynkagan.com/is-the-world-too-scary-to-travel-what-to-do/) - This is the trip that almost wasn’t. And by trip, I mean trip of a lifetime. Husband, aka, Mad Scientist Miles Man has done it again. Figured out a way we can take our two girls to Africa for Christmas. Yeah, Africa. Land of elephants, lions, and hippos. Home of Nelson Mandela. Husband figured out - [My Husband Paid $7 Bucks & All I Got Was A $46,000 Plane Ride](https://darynkagan.com/my-husband-paid-7-bucks-all-i-got-was-a-46000-plane-ride/) - So what does it feel like to fly First Class on one of the fanciest airlines in the world? To experience a level of service no US-based airline even offers? How about I take you along for the ride my husband and I just took? Yes, that husband. The Mad Scientist Miles Chaser, the one - [My Most Unrealistic New Year's Resolution Ever](https://darynkagan.com/2206/) - It’s possible I’m setting myself up for failure. It is true. After all, don’t all those psychologist types recommend you keep it realistic on New Year’s resolutions? I don’t care. I’m going big. Shooting for the stars. Or rather, for the socks. Yes, socks. My - [Your Home Improvement Project Can Earn You Frequent Flyer Miles](https://darynkagan.com/your-home-improvement-project-can-earn-you-luxury-travel/) - You're finally getting around to that home improvement project--new roof, gutting a bathroom, new furniture. Your house is going to look so much better, but you hate spending that money. Even if you've already found the improvement you want from Architectural Fibreglass Mouldings, pulling the trigger can be difficult when there's so much money involved. - [Got The Best Gift; Why I Need To Give It Back](https://darynkagan.com/got-the-best-gift-now-i-need-to-return-it/) - This is a “Thank You” note to my friend, Clare. Clare, who has delivered the best gift this holiday season. A gift for me. A gift for you. Clare, which rhymes with “Share.” Clare who’s life has changed forever. That’s what she’s sharing. And boy, has she shared. Shared with her friends and Facebook community - [Husband Makes 50,000 Airline Miles Just By Taking Me To Lunch](https://darynkagan.com/50000-airline-miles-just-by-going-to-lunch/) - Welcome to my world where Mad Scientist Miles Husband figures out a way to earn airline miles without flying. It's kind of like living with a crazy genius. Sunday, he invites me for a midday date. I thought it was about picking out new colors to paint our house and getting some lunch. We're just - [I Need My Husband To Fall In Love Again](https://darynkagan.com/i-need-my-husband-to-fall-in-love-again/) - I need my husband to fall in love again. To take that plunge of “all in” emotion with the same hopeful abandon he had the day he proposed. As if to say, “I don’t know everything about you, but enough to know I love you, we’re a match, we can make a life together!” I - [Husband Creates Travel Masterpiece: Around The World In First Class For $383.45!](https://darynkagan.com/husband-creates-travel-masterpiece-around-the-world-in-first-class-for-311-25/) - I imagine most husbands' idea of some time away means a few days at the beach? Couple days at a cabin? I'm not really sure, as I'm very late to the marriage game and Miles Chasing Mad Scientist Husband is my entire husband sample. Beyond family, MCMSH's passion is collecting frequent flyer miles without flying - [Need To Decide: You Looking For a Boyfriend Or A Husband?](https://darynkagan.com/you-need-to-decide-you-looking-for-a-boyfriend-of-a-husband/) - Get my friend, Claire, on the phone right now! We need to have lunch. Like now. I got some ‘splainin’ to do to my friend who happens to be about 15 years younger than I am. The urgent need popped up when I got an email from her earlier this week. Seems sweet Claire is - [Old Dog Love--I Got It Bad](https://darynkagan.com/old-dog-love-i-got-it-bad/) - Many days she smells no better than an old blanket that’s been soaking in a bucket of sour milk for week. Her body sports more lumps than a bride’s first attempt at making mashed potatoes. Still, I look at her and know that I’m in love. She is my 14 ½ year old dog. Together, - [Lying About Your Age-Here's How You Should Do It](https://darynkagan.com/lying-about-your-age-heres-how-you-should-do-it/) - “So this will be your 25th birthday,” a new acquaintance joked recently when he heard of my upcoming birthday. There was that assumption again. When people — particularly women — get to a certain age, we’re supposed to lie about our age. Certainly some people sign up for the game. My - [Four Reasons I'm Against Gay Marriage](https://darynkagan.com/four-reasons-im-against-gay-marriage/) - Try Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial -I’m against gay marriage, because to me, there is no such thing. It is simply, er, marriage. -I’m against gay marriage, because I would never want to be married to a gay man. I imagine our love life wouldn’t be all that great. Oh, and I’m already married. To - [The Only Wedding Present We Asked For Keeps On Giving](https://darynkagan.com/the-only-wedding-present-we-asked-for-keeps-on-giving/) - The box awaits. It’s not fancy by any means. A cardboard box from a craft store that my friend’s 10-year-old daughter decorated with decals and quotes about love. It is simply the best wedding gift my husband and I received. It’s one of the very few wedding presents we received. There’s that. It’s how we - [My Dog Is Teaching Me A Final Lesson](https://darynkagan.com/my-dog-is-teaching-me-a-final-lesson/) - My dog is getting me ready. She knows what’s coming in the way dogs know before we do. About a dangerous stranger, earthquakes, or bacon. She’s gently letting me know it will soon be time for her to go. It’s one of an infinite number of brilliant conversations I’ve had with my best friend. The - [How Can My Friends' Worst Phone Call Ever Lead To Someone's Best?](https://darynkagan.com/how-can-the-worst-phone-call-ever-lead-to-someones-best/) - Joy. Today, I’m thinking about joy. Joy, the name of the wife of good friend, Brian. Joy, the emotion instantly drained from Brian’s heart when he received that phone call a couple weeks ago. Maybe you’ve gotten one of those phone calls, Dear Reader. One with the worst news possible. While Brian was working out - [My Family Can't Talk To Each Other; Y'all How About Yours?](https://darynkagan.com/my-family-cant-talk-to-each-other-yall-how-about-yours/) - My family needs to talk. It’s not so easy. “Ah, yes, raising two teenagers,” you nod in compassion and understanding. Yes, thank you. But that’s not it. Well, it is many days. The problem, I’ve diagnosed this week is something bigger. It starts at the beginning. We don’t speak the same language. Ours is a - [You Could Call This The Worst Anniversary Dinner Ever](https://darynkagan.com/you-could-call-this-the-worst-anniversary-dinner-ever/) - You could’ve called it the worst anniversary dinner ever. This week, Husband and I were excited to celebrate our third wedding anniversary. Yes, can you believe it? It’s already been three years since this forever-single lady found a perfectly imperfect man who wanted to spend his life with me. We had reservations at a fancy, - [My Dog's Getting The Last Laugh; The Chapter I Didn't See Coming](https://darynkagan.com/my-dogs-getting-the-last-laugh-the-chapter-i-didnt-see-coming/) - Let me say, Dear Reader, that you are amazing. Wonderful. Clearly, you’re an over the top dog lover, like myself. The emails have been flooding in ever since I shared the latest chapter of my sweet Darla’s life in the column, “My Dog Is Teaching Me A Final Lesson.” I shared how my dog has - [Is It Just Me? Why Do I Always Do This On Airplanes?](https://darynkagan.com/is-it-just-me-why-do-i-always-do-this-on-airplanes/) - I am that lady in Seat 12B. Maybe even stuck in that middle seat of 27D. I’m that lady you’re trying to discreetly poke your travel partner. “Check out the woman over there,” you whisper. “She’s crying her eyes out.” Dear Reader, what is it about airplanes? The altitude? The recycled air? The isolation 36,000 - [Going Solo: Are You Willing To Do THIS Alone In Public?](https://darynkagan.com/going-solo-are-you-willing-to-do-this-alone-in-public/) - My husband is still laughing at this. Well, laughing at me. Story goes back to a few years ago when we were dating, snuggled up on the couch watching “Dancing With The Stars.” He sweetly asked me, “Would you ever want to take ballroom dance lessons?” I thought about it a second and said, “You - [Your Take On My Husband's Surprise--You More Than Helped Me Decide What To Do](https://darynkagan.com/your-take-on-my-husbands-surprise-you-more-than-helped-me-decide-what-to-do/) - Oh, what a trip it has been! The adventure has started, even weeks before I get on the plane. For that, I have you to thank, Dear Reader. It was just a few weeks ago that I asked you for some marital advice. I shared how my husband has this crazy, geeky hobby where he collects frequent - [Mother's Day Panic Button: I'm Messing Up Big Time; Help Me Fix It](https://darynkagan.com/mothers-day-panic-button-im-messing-up-big-time-help-me-fix-it/) - You know those warm, fuzzy gushy feeling columns you read around Mother’s Day? I’ve written a few myself. (Like this and this.) Yeah, this isn’t one of those. Oh, it’s about motherhood, all right. But this one is more like hitting the motherhood panic button. A button I hit the other day while, don’t get - [Great Trick When You Have To Pay Cash For Plane Ticket](https://darynkagan.com/great-trick-when-you-have-to-pay-cash-for-plane-ticket/) - You can bet the Mad Scientist Miles Husband (MSMH) hates to use actual money to buy plane tickets. When there isn't a great miles deal, he has been known to use the "Hidden City" technique. Simply, this means booking a longer flight than your planned destination. You get off the plane during a layover in - [Marriage Teaches Me Something I Should've Known About Love](https://darynkagan.com/marriage-teaches-me-something-i-shouldve-known-about-love/) - I gave a little prayer of thanks this morning as I walked my dog in the still morning dark. Thanks that my husband made it home last night. Was he gone on a business trip? No. Pushing limits on a drunken bender? Oh, that’s a funny one, if you knew him. So was he somewhere - [Newbie Frequent Flyer Mile Collectors--You Wanna Do This First](https://darynkagan.com/newbie-frequent-flyer-mile-collectors-you-wanna-do-this-first/) - This is Husband. The Mad Miles Scientist. He wants to set you up for success as you try to do what he does--collect millions of frequent flyer miles without flying. He's sitting here telling me, "Folks are so excited. They want to dive into the deep end. Sign up for a bunch of credit cards, - [Is Husband's Surprise A Good Thing?](https://darynkagan.com/is-husbands-surprise-a-good-thing/) - To be surprised? Or not surprised? That is the marital question I need your help with this week, Dear Reader. I’ve shared in previous columns my husband’s rather quirky, geeky hobby. Crazy, mad genius obsession, might be a better description. Husband collects frequent flyer miles without flying. Millions of them. It’s all the way we - [Social Media Peer Pressure: I'm Gagging. The Thing I'll Say That I Bet You're Thinking](https://darynkagan.com/social-media-peer-pressure-im-gagging-the-thing-ill-say-that-i-bet-youre-thinking/) - I’m slow. Hopelessly behind. Out of the loop. How about that for some fine negative catty self-talk? I figure it’s not catty, if it’s true. Simply reporting. I don’t have to go far to confirm and reinforce my theory. It’s a close as my computer. My computer, where years ago I joined Facebook. Facebook, where - [Book or Kindle? Where Are You In World's Most Passionate Debate?](https://darynkagan.com/book-or-kindle-where-are-you-in-worlds-most-passionate-debate/) - I wasn’t going to go, well, there. Frankly, you’ve given me no choice. Such a shame, too, as you and I were getting along so well. In fact, it appeared we were never better following my column of a couple weeks ago where I confessed to be a life-long book lover. Clearly, I’m not alone. - [Book Lover, Party of One; Why Reading Is Like Dating](https://darynkagan.com/book-lover-party-of-one-why-reading-is-like-dating/) - I can’t quite do it yet. I need some space. Before I’m ready. It’s like that with great loves. This one has been with me for years. I suspect with you, as well. A love that can only be found between the pages Of books. Reading. Diving into the deep end with characters I like - [My Birthmark That Wasn't; Longing For The Mark of Greatness](https://darynkagan.com/my-birthmark-that-wasnt-longing-for-the-mark-of-greatness/) - I wasn’t born. This fact was relayed to me by my slightly older brother. About the time he was six and I was five. The traumatic childhood memory of this revelation came flooding back to me this week, thanks to an endearing news item I stumbled upon. I read how two parents in England who - [Your Friend Picker--Three Lessons That Fine Tuned Mine](https://darynkagan.com/your-friend-picker-three-lessons-that-fine-tuned-mine/) - “How do you pick your friends?” What an awesome question I was thrilled to get recently from a certain young person in my life. Let’s talk “The Picker.” The one that selects the friends you choose to have in your life. My own Picker has been shaped and modified for the better by three wonderful - [An Adoption Celebration: Motherhood Is Like A Cup of Tea](https://darynkagan.com/an-adoption-celebration-motherhood-is-like-a-cup-of-tea/) - Get out the gloves and nice dresses. My daughter and I are heading to High Tea at a fancy schmancy hotel here in town. It’s what we do each year to celebrate the anniversary of our adoption. And I do mean OUR adoption, as she was 11 when we met, 13 when I married her - [So, I Broke Up With The 'What If?'s'](https://darynkagan.com/so-i-broke-up-with-the-what-ifs/) - We had a crisis in our house this week. As are most crises with teenagers— This one was astronomical. Huge. Tragic. It involved, Get ready. It’s big. Our daughter losing her cell phone. Yes, I know. International relief funds have been started over tragedies smaller than this. “I think I left it behind at school,” she explained - [It Takes A Village To Raise My Mom](https://darynkagan.com/it-takes-a-village-to-raise-my-mom/) - It takes a village to raise… A parent. You and I have long known about the need of the so-called village of neighbors, friends and family to raise our kids. Today, I’m thanking the village it takes to care for my mom. My mom, who has it made it quite clear she’s not leaving our hometown where she’s spent her entire life, - [My Dog Leads The Way To Joy](https://darynkagan.com/my-dog-leads-the-way-to-joy/) - To chore or not to chore. That is the question. The debate between people like me. Crazy mad dog lover. And people like my husband. People who don’t get the whole dog thing. “Have you done your chores this morning?” he’ll ask. Let me translate: “Have I walked you walked the dog?” No matter how I try to explain, - [I'm Parenting From Another Planet](https://darynkagan.com/im-parenting-from-another-planet/) - Looks like I will be turning in my American passport. I’ve been informed I’m not of this country. Oh, it ratchets up from there. Apparently, I’m not even of this planet. The notice came via a look. A look from my kids. Perhaps, Dear Reader, you’ve gotten “The Look,” as well? It comes about the time - [The Party I Never Wanted To Cancel](https://darynkagan.com/the-party-i-never-wanted-to-cancel/) - It is one of the most formidable values I was raised with. Right up there with The Ten Commandments and not running with scissors. Simply, I am to never cancel a party or joyous occasion. No. Matter. What. The thinking is, life has so many challenges, that when joy is on the calendar, you must - [One Stupid Thing To Stop Saying About Cancer](https://darynkagan.com/one-stupid-thing-to-stop-saying-about-cancer/) - Of all the cliché news phrases that drive me nuts, and trust me, there are more than a few— You can put up at the top of the list, “He lost his battle with cancer.” Please. We need to stop. Just stop saying this. Dear Reader, if your email to me is any indication, you get - [My Husband Wants Me To Start Dating](https://darynkagan.com/my-husband-wants-me-to-start-dating/) - My husband wants me to start dating. Wait, it gets better. He wants me to start dating women. If this isn’t among his sweetest, most endearing qualities, I don’t know what is. See, we’re not that wild, exciting swinging couple you might be imagining. About as far from that as possible. Look “Boring” up in - [My Terrible Singing Makes For One Lonely Couch](https://darynkagan.com/my-terrible-singing-makes-for-one-lonely-couch/) - Talk about a potential movie moment gone bust! The “Woe is me” moment brought on, by all things, by the recent “Sound of Music” Sing-A-Long on TV. Did you happen to catch it, Dear Reader? Did you sing along? As Julie Andrews sings, “Let’s start at the very beginning….” Of coming across the movie on TV, of looking to - [I Took My Mother For A Dose of Poison](https://darynkagan.com/i-took-my-mother-for-a-dose-of-poison/) - I took my mother for a large dose of poison last week. Sound crazy? It gets crazier. I actually did it two days in a row. That double dose of poison is a gift. I’m so thankful to have access to pump it throughout her body. What kind of daughter does such a thing? The - [The Best Worst Reason To Get A Plane Ticket](https://darynkagan.com/the-best-worst-reason-to-get-a-plane-ticket/) - Honeymoon. Traveling the world as a news correspondent. Volunteering at an orphanage in Africa. I’ve had a lot of great reasons to get on a plane. I now have the best worst one. “The doctor called with the test results,” my mother said on the phone last week from the other side of the country. - [Imperfection: The Perfect Gift To Give This Holiday Season](https://darynkagan.com/imperfection-the-perfect-gift-to-give-this-holiday-season/) - I’ve figured the perfect gift! It’s perfect for-- Well, everybody. That’s why I am now committing to a crummy holiday season. Okay, maybe not the whole season, But at least a couple of days. A few failure moments. You know me, Dear Reader. I’m all about gratitude, being happy with what you have. But a - [The Brain Game: The Adventure of Living With Folks Who's Brains Aren't Like Mine](https://darynkagan.com/the-brain-game-the-adventure-of-living-with-folks-whos-brains-arent-like-mine/) - I had one job. One job only. And I failed. Well, sorta. The task at hand—pack my teenaged daughter’s suitcase so my husband could whisk her away for a surprise Daddy-Daughter weekend. He had cashed in points, of course, to fly them to Los Angeles and catch their favorite British Boy Band concert. Yes, my - [You Can't Eat The Best Thing In My Kitchen](https://darynkagan.com/you-cant-eat-the-best-thing-in-my-kitchen/) - It’s the most important thing in my kitchen. It’s not food. Nor a pot or pan. Not even a fancy appliance. Folks who have known me a long time find it funny that I treasure anything in my kitchen. See, much to the disbelief of my husband and kids, the ones I now cook for - [What's There To Be Thankful For Anyway?](https://darynkagan.com/whats-there-to-be-thankful-for-anyway/) - Some days I struggle with that sign. The one that hangs on the wall just inside our front door. “In Everything Give Thanks” it reads, painted on a simple wood plank. My friend, Dana, gave me that sign about six years ago, a reminder of a time when things weren’t feeling so thank-y around here. - [The Way Thanksgiving Is Supposed To Taste](https://darynkagan.com/the-way-thanksgiving-is-supposed-to-taste/) - Here it comes. The family strife. The mess of our differences. All found At the bottom Of a casserole dish. I’m talking, Dear Reader, about Thanksgiving And Sweet potatoes. How do you love yours? Are your sweet potatoes mashed? In a pie? Squished into a casserole dish? Dare I even broach a topic more prickly - [Your Rattle No One Else Can Hear?](https://darynkagan.com/your-rattle-no-one-else-can-hear/) - Have you heard my rattle? The one that’s driving me crazy? It’s happening in my new car. Well, not that new. The car’s about a year and a half old. Old enough to start with quirks. Too new, if you ask me, to already have a rattle. When I take the car out on the - [I Got In Bed With A Stranger Last Night](https://darynkagan.com/i-got-in-bed-with-a-stranger-last-night/) - There was a stranger in my bed last night. Goodness, what would my husband say? Thing is, this man looked an awful lot like the guy I married a couple of years ago. Except for one thing. This man was wearing- Was wearing— Reading glasses. I can barely get out the words. Judge? Me? No - [Do Humiliating Mommy Moments Ever End?](https://darynkagan.com/do-humiliating-mommy-moments-ever-end/) - In case you were wondering— The lady running around last weekend from one end of the metro area to the other in what can best be described as “Mom High Fashion of Shame.” Yeah, that was me. How shall I best describe my outfit? T shirt that I had slept in, so big it would - [14 Wishes For My Daughter On Her 16th Birthday](https://darynkagan.com/14-wishes-for-my-daughter-on-her-16th-birthday/) - Dearest Daughter, We met when you were 11. I married Daddy when you were 13. The judge made you and me legal with our adoption when you were 14. This parenting gig really does fly by in flash, so before you zoom out the door, on the occasion of your Sweet 16, here are 14 - [Seasonal Confession: What No One Dares To Say This Time of Year, But I Will](https://darynkagan.com/seasonal-confession-what-no-one-dares-to-say-this-time-of-year-but-i-will/) - Might as well out myself now. What I’m about to confess is totally politically incorrect, against popular thinking, and gasp, even prejudiced. I don’t like Fall. Or Autumn. Or whatever you want to call it. I don’t like it. You, who are giddy about chillier temperatures, start of football, changing leaves. You, who get goosies - [My Missing Period Has A Whole New Meaning](https://darynkagan.com/my-missing-period-has-a-whole-new-meaning/) - Might as well start with the good news. The experts tell me they expect my organ transplant to be a success. Kidney? Lungs? Heart? So much more serious. The extension of my body known as— My laptop. That lifeline to the internet, that link to my email, that toolbox for my writing. My digital bodily - [Teenager Sassy Talk Is Taking Over Our Family](https://darynkagan.com/582/) - We have a sass problem in our family. Teenaged sass. Talk back, argue, and try to negotiate every boundary kind of sass. “Take away their iPads!” you suggest. “Send them to their rooms!” you insist. Thank you very much for your parenting input. Thing is… The sass, well, it’s not coming from either of the - [The Tattoo I Never Planned On Getting](https://darynkagan.com/the-tattoo-i-never-planned-on-getting/) - I bet you have a tattoo. It’s possible you have not been hanging out in a tattoo parlor wincing as some dude named, “Clyde” etches a skull and bones onto your right bicep. And yet, I bet you have a tattoo. I say this as part of a triple confession. Let’s start with—I don’t like - [Picking Kids Up At School-Things They Don't Tell You In The Carpool Lane](https://darynkagan.com/picking-kids-up-at-school-wheres-the-joy-ride/) - Beware the dark scary high-wire act of motherhood that no one tells you about. Until now. That’s my job, reporting from the frontlines of a daily occurrence that was something in my pre-motherhood days I actually looked forward to. I’m talking about— The school pick up. Pre-mommy me thought this would be a daily - [The Big Break Up That Changed My Life](https://darynkagan.com/the-big-break-up-that-changed-my-life/) - It was one of the biggest break ups of my life.If I’m honest with you, Dear Reader, I must tell you there are times when I’m still not over this great love.There are days, well, no, okay, at least moments, where I look over my shoulder and wonder, “Maybe we could try one more time - [Parenthood: Becoming The Fool I Warn My Kids About](https://darynkagan.com/parenthood-becoming-the-fool-i-warn-my-kids-about/) - You could’ve warned me. I’m talking to you, Dear Reader, who has been in this parenting game longer than the few years I have. Why did you not explain to me that becoming a parent is perfect blueprint for looking like a fool? Why is it that the very thing I try to warn - [Wedding Vows: The Most Important Thing No One Else Will Tell You](https://darynkagan.com/the-most-important-thing-no-one-else-will-recommend-for-your-wedding-vows/) - It’s possible an absolutely brilliant, inspired wedding ceremony is happening about now, just as you and I sit down to have our weekly time together. I actually can’t tell you the name of the couple getting married. Our paths crossed a couple of weeks ago as my family spent some time on a beach in - [The Note I Wish I Had With Me All Those Years](https://darynkagan.com/the-note-i-wish-i-had-with-me-all-those-years/) - The note to myself I wish I had all those years-- "Dear 20, 30, & 40 yr-old Self: It’s possible you’re obsessing about all the guys who dumped you, broke your heart, who you were so convinced were "The One?" Yeah, I know, there have been some, ‘Will Someone Ever Really Love Me?’ ugly cry - [When A Dozen Eggs Doesn't Equal 12](https://darynkagan.com/when-a-dozen-eggs-doesnt-equal-12/) - Leave it to a bunch of chickens to teach me a lesson. About gratitude. About what is enough. About what makes a party. Yes, I did say, “chickens.” As in the 7 crazy chickens I have living in our backyard. Got my first chickens about four years ago, the day before my first date with - [The Night Cancer Did Not Get To Win](https://darynkagan.com/the-night-cancer-did-not-get-to-win/) - Too many days. Too many days, that awful, despicable, rude, ruthless bully called, “cancer” has knocked on the door of those I love. That day in high school when it took the life of my best friend, Cyndi’s, mother. That day just out of college when my roommate, Sandra’s, mother was diagnosed. Doctors gave her - [Forbes Magazine Has No Idea What A Powerful Woman Is](https://darynkagan.com/forbes-magazine-has-no-idea-what-a-powerful-woman-is/) - Is it possible to be rude, bored and fired up all at the same time? I’m thinking, “You, bet!” as I look the latest “100 Most Powerful Women” list from Forbes Magazine. Rude, in the sense that I’m ready to tell this highly respected business magazine what I think of their list. And I’m not - [The Hair Question Every Woman Eventually Must Answer](https://darynkagan.com/the-hair-question-every-woman-eventually-must-answer/) - It’s the looming question waiting for every woman at the bottom of a plastic bottle. The answer you give that informs the world information about you without your saying a word. What do you believe? What is beauty? And so, Dear Woman, I know you’ve asked yourself. Will you or won’t you? Do you or - [Why I'm Not Qualified To Parent A Teenager](https://darynkagan.com/367/) - My daughter just might be ready to call the authorities. Yes, it’s possible she might turn me in. Indeed, I must face the facts. The evidence. The now undeniable truth—I’m unequipped to be a parent to a teenager. Unequipped as in technically unequipped. Technically, as in technology. Technology as in, Dear Reader, how do you - [Mother's Day 2014: The Man Who Has No Business Loving Me](https://darynkagan.com/the-man-who-has-no-business-loving-me/) - He has no business loving me.The very idea of me could easily inspire a Bitter Party For One.I wouldn’t even blame him.I am not an answer to his prayers.And yet…Here we are at Mother’s Day.I’m the one being celebrated. I’m the one who gets the joy, privilege, and honor of raising his only grandchild.And yet….The - [Change Your Name When You Marry? Your Take!](https://darynkagan.com/change-your-name-when-you-marry-your-take/) - Well, hello there, brides and wives! Looks like my column from a couple of weeks ago where I shared my choice not to change my name when I married has touched a nerve. The responses have been pouring in. There’s no way I could print all of them, so here are a few. Tammie Morris - [Shocking: Sometimes Death Helps](https://darynkagan.com/shocking-sometimes-death-helps/) - My dad and I are getting along much better these days. Which is interesting, especially considering he has been gone for more than six years now. Gone in the sense of he passed away. Gone in the sense of it was his time. Gone in the sense that what’s left of him, here in my - [The Question All Brides Must Answer](https://darynkagan.com/the-question-all-brides-must-answer/) - This day is coming, Brides. I warn you—it’s coming. Plan a huge Southern wedding including 68 cousins four times removed, go rustic chic spending thousands to say your vows in a splintery barn or elope to be married by an Elvis impersonator. No matter what you do. This day is coming. There’s simply no avoiding it. - [Maybe The Person You're Looking For Has Been Here All Along](https://darynkagan.com/maybe-the-person-youre-looking-for-has-been-here-all-along/) - It’s pathetic, really,what a bad friend I am. You know that friend you want to bemoan to, share your fears, loneliness and sadness about someone who hasn’t shown up in your life? Yeah, I’m really bad at being her. My challenge is, I guess, to borrow from that old movie “The Sixth Sense,” is - [Oh, Yes I Did! Told Teen Girls What I Thought Of Their Fashion Choices](https://darynkagan.com/313/) - Maybe I should’ve kept my mouth shut.I find that a less attractive option the older I get.There’s that.Maybe I just shouldn’t have looked.But who could miss it?My eyes popped out first.Couldn't Believe What I SawTwo teenaged girls behind me waiting to check out in the grocery store wearing shorts.Shorts.What an understatement that was.Shorts.Too long a - [Is It Weird That I Want A New Best Friend?](https://darynkagan.com/is-it-weird-that-i-want-a-new-best-friend/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I want to ask her to be my new best friend. I haven’t exactly actually met her yet. There’s that. My teenaged daughter is already freaking out at the idea. - [How I Wish I Could've Helped This Man](https://darynkagan.com/the-biggest-thing-i-cant-tell-you-to-do/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I hate not being able to help. The pull to help seems to come as naturally to me as my 14-year-old dog is drawn to her liver-flavored treats. And yet, there are times when - [The Day I Wish All Moms Could Have](https://darynkagan.com/the-day-i-wish-all-moms-could-have/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: It seems unfair. Really unfair. It’s something so wonderful I wish all moms could have it. And yet, only a small minority of us get to. My fellow adoptive Moms, this is the column - [The One Question You Should Never Ask A Pregnant Woman](https://darynkagan.com/the-one-question-you-should-never-ask-a-pregnant-woman/) - You will be so proud of me. I know exactly the question not to ask. Three of my friends are pregnant right now. This is good news, in that new life is on the way. That’s always about hope and what is possible. They have all been moaning to me about their sore backs - [How Did I Become The Person I Used To Laugh At?](https://darynkagan.com/how-did-become-the-person-i-used-to-laugh-at/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Not me. Was never going to happen. That was something that happened to plenty of other people that I knew, just not me. Fine, confession, I felt just a touch superior that I didn’t - [Now It's YOUR Turn: Your 25 Things You Learned By The Time You Turned 50](https://darynkagan.com/now-its-your-turn-your-25-things-you-learned-by-the-time-you-turned-50/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Have you ever thrown a party and were overwhelmed by the gifts that keep on coming? That’s what it’s been like over the last few weeks ever since I shared with you, “25 Of - [Time To Address Festering Issues In My Long Term Relationship](https://darynkagan.com/time-to-address-festering-issues-in-my-long-term-relationship/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Dear Valentine’s Day, Let’s face it: things have not been great between you and me. With your special day upon us, I feel no better time to discuss the issues we have had over - [25 Of The 50 Things I Learned By The Time I Turned 50](https://darynkagan.com/25-of-the-50-things-i-learned-by-the-time-i-turned-50/) - So Brad Pitt, Michelle Obama and I walk into a bar…Well, not really.But we could, if we knew each other. There’s that.And we could, if we three were to celebrate something each of us has done in the last 12 months—turn 50 years old.In honor of my pretend friends’ and my mutual milestone, I offer - [You'll Never Guess Who Gave Me My Best Christmas Present](https://darynkagan.com/youll-never-guess-who-gave-me-best-christmas-present/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: You’ll never guess who gave me the best Christmas present this year. Turns out it wasn’t my husband. He and I actually don’t do traditional gifts, choosing instead to give each other trips and - [It's Going To Be One Messy Year](https://darynkagan.com/its-going-to-be-one-messy-year/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Well, hello there, New Year you, who promises to be 12 months, 365 days, 8,766 hours, 525,948,766 of mess. It’s not that I’m starting the year as a Negative Nelly. It’s actually more about - [Conversations With My Dog](https://darynkagan.com/conversations-with-my-dog/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I learned something new about one of my favorite people in the world this week. By favorite people, I mean my dog. You don’t see dogs as people and think those us - [There's Never Enough Time When You Love Someone](https://darynkagan.com/theres-never-enough-time-when-you-love-someone/) - By popular demand, I'm re-posting this column on time and love which ran last July so that it shows up on this WordPress site. Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio.A stranger took my breath away this week.What would you do if a woman you - [Thinking About Someone Special On My First Mother's Day](https://darynkagan.com/thinking-about-someone-special-on-my-first-mothers-day/) - I think about her every day.We are forever linked through one of the greatest joys of my life.And I’ll never be able to tell her.That’s what I find myself thinking about this, my first Mother's Day as a mother.I’ll never be able to say “Thank you” to the woman who started the job I’m - [When Marriage Means Learning To Love The Ugly](https://darynkagan.com/marriage-means-learning-to-love-the-ugly/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I did something this week I swore I would never do, managing to break not one, but two vows in the process. And it's all part of the journey I share with you on - [Why Can't My Husband & I Find Direction?](https://darynkagan.com/177/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: My husband and I are struggling to find direction. I don’t mean direction like agreeing on common values for our family, how we raise our kids, or where we will retire. No, this struggle - [Oh Yes, I Did: Open Mouth, Insert Foot](https://darynkagan.com/oh-yes-i-did-open-mouth-insert-foot/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Oh yes, I did. Does it count that my intentions were good as a clearly pregnant woman and her husband sat next to me on a long cross country flight last week? I got - [Here's My Absence Slip](https://darynkagan.com/heres-my-absence-slip/) - "So, where have you been, young lady?" No matter how old we get, there still is some splainin' to do when you've been gone for awhile. I've shared before how my husband has this crazy hobby of collecting millions of frequent flyer miles without traveling. Most days of the year, it drives us crazy because - [When A Cat With Less Is More Than A Cat](https://darynkagan.com/when-a-cat-with-less-is-more-than-a-cat/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I told a friend this week to cut off her cat’s leg.Hold on, before you get PETA or mental health officials on your speed dial, let me explain.My friend’s kitty, Eloise, was injured by a - [My Best Efforts To Avoid My Big Dream--What's Your Best Excuse?](https://darynkagan.com/my-best-efforts-to-avoid-my-big-dream-whats-your-best-excuse/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: I need to go walk my pet chicken. Shoot, I only checked Facebook 12 times today. Better check in, just in case I missed someone’s fascinating update. I wonder - [Why Didn't Anyone Warn Me Before I Adopted My Daughter?](https://darynkagan.com/142/) - If I’d only known.Somehow, I thought by adopting a full-sized kid I would avoid biological changes to my body.Silly me.I met my daughter when she was 11. We finalized the adoption earlier this year.No, there were no post-pregnancy pounds to lose, as I had my figure back within minutes of signing those papers.I can’t blame - [Could I Blame My Mother-in-Law?](https://darynkagan.com/140/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: It would’ve been so easy to blame all this on my mother-in-law. It was, after all, her chocolate pie recipe that reduced me to tears this week. Looking back, the true challenge was feeling - [Still Not Easy Learning To Share](https://darynkagan.com/still-not-easy-learning-to-share/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: My parents’ chiding still rings in my head. “Daryn, you need to learn to share your favorite doll and toys with your little sister.” Ah, memories of being 8 years old and being taught - [Can't Tell A Brother, "No."](https://darynkagan.com/cant-tell-a-brother-no/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Pretty much the only thing impossible in Kyle Pease’s life is telling him, “No.” I offer this as guidance, because Kyle strikes me as clever enough to know that’s not what most people expect - [Old Dog Love](https://darynkagan.com/old-dog-love/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Many days she smells no better than an old blanket that’s been soaking in a bucket of sour milk for week. Her body sports more lumps than a bride’s first attempt at making mashed - [The Neighbor I Never Expected](https://darynkagan.com/the-neighbor-i-never-expected/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Leave it to my young teenaged daughter to succinctly describe a scene from the sitcom that is sometimes my life. “That awkward moment when you discover your gynecologist is moving - [Three Words That Drive This Mom Nuts](https://darynkagan.com/three-words-that-drive-this-mom-nuts/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: Okay I get it. The disapproving faces grimacing back at me and the crock pot of burned indiscernible mush soaking in the sink is helping to get the point across. Perhaps a slow cooker - [Getting Up Off The Floor--How Sweet It Is!](https://darynkagan.com/getting-up-off-the-floor-how-sweet-it-is/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: April Harris, owner of Marble Slab Creamery in Brookhaven, GA, now seeing much sweeter times after hitting lowest of lows. Ever been through one of those bend over with pain, hit - [Do You Let Your Kids Watch?](https://darynkagan.com/do-you-let-your-kids-watch/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here’s this week’s column: “Chirpity chirp!” went my phone alerting me to a text message. Nothing like interrupting a special moment with my kid with what turned out to be a heavy philosophical question about parenting. There I - [The Three Little Words So Hard For Me To Say](https://darynkagan.com/the-three-little-words-so-hard-for-me-to-say/) - This confession might shock you. There are three little words that are really hard for me to say. Sometimes even get stuck in my throat. Me, who writes each week about love, who shares how happy I am in my new marriage, how much I love being a mom. I have a hard time saying, - [What Would You Say If The Pope Called?](https://darynkagan.com/what-would-you-say-if-the-pope-called/) - Apparently, Pope Francis continues his theme of being a more casual, people's pope and has taken to calling folks who have written him letters.I found the charming story is in the San Francisco Chronicle.The article shares some tips on what to do if the Pope happens to call you.So, I'm wondering, what would you say - [The Issue That Almost Upended My Marriage Before It Began](https://darynkagan.com/the-isse-that-almost-upended-my-marriage-before-it-began/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here's this week's column. It is the issue that almost upended my marriage before it began. I can picture you, Dear Reader, nodding your head in understanding. “Yes, it’s tough to agree on religion, money, - [The Next Best Thing Might Be Right Out Your Front Door](https://darynkagan.com/the-next-best-thing-might-be-right-out-your-front-door/) - Please catch my newspaper column each week in theAtlanta Journal Constitution and the Dayton Daily News. “If one more person told me ‘When one door closes, another door opens,’ I think I was going to scream,” a photographer named Mark Hirsch shared with me this week. Anyone who has gone through their share of losses has got - [When I Used To Be Someone](https://darynkagan.com/when-i-used-to-be-someone/) - Whoa! This column got a huge response. I've received more email than I have in a long time. Feel free to comment at the bottom. And please catch my column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the Dayton Daily News. All I really wanted was a manicure. Really, just about a half-hour to myself, - [Wishing A Good Friend Well & Faking It](https://darynkagan.com/wishing-a-good-friend-well-faking-it/) - You asked, you got it. Here's my latest newspaper column. Please catch my column each week in The Atlanta Journal Constitution and The Dayton Daily News. Here’s hoping the ladies won’t mind some extra salty seasoning in the appetizers this weekend, as we gather to wish one of my favorite people in the world, “Goodbye.” - [Happy "Best Match Ever" Day!](https://darynkagan.com/happy-best-match-ever-day/) - Such a special anniversary to celebrate! Four years ago today I met a little girl who changed my life forever. There I was having a sad, lonely, woe-is-me Sunday night. Feeling sorry for myself being alone and single. After an appropriate amount of pity party time, I thought to myself, "You can feel sorry for - [July 8, 2013: I'm Back--Really!](https://darynkagan.com/july-8-2013-im-back-really/) - Feels like I should have an approved absence note or something for you. I haven't been away from DarynKagan.com this much since I launched the website in 2006. The note would read something like, "Please excuse Daryn for her absence, but she has been on a belated honeymoon and a family vacation-practically back to back." - [June 24, 2013: ...And She'll Be Okay...](https://darynkagan.com/june-24-2013-and-shell-be-okay/) - I'm sharing one of recent newspaper columns. Please catch me each week in The Atlanta Journal Constitution and The Dayton Daily News. Feel free to leave your comments below. I'd love to hear from you. She is my heart’s home. Together we cry through our hard times. Then, we hug. One believes when the other ## Pages - [About Daryn](https://darynkagan.com/about-daryn/) - 6 Things About Daryn https://youtu.be/BPdpPQ9CDx8 You look so much like.... Yes, I used to be that anchor on CNN. Those were 12 amazing years anchoring breaking news, covering war, traveling Africa with U2's Bono, covering Oscars' Red Carpet. If you love doing news, and a I did, there is no better place to do it - [Hire Daryn: Your story is my business](https://darynkagan.com/daryn-kagan-inc/) - I tell stories. Following my network news career, I'm telling stories for all sorts of clients from billion dollar companies to regular folks who want to turn their life story into a book. I also do a lot of public speaking. Take a few decades in the news business, add in skills to tell stories - [Contact](https://darynkagan.com/contact/) - I'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on a story. Book me for a speaking event. Book me to create content for your company. Just say, "Hey!" Drop me a line: Daryn@DarynKagan.com We can also connect: On Facebook On Twitter - [What Media Folks Are Saying About Daryn](https://darynkagan.com/what-media-folks-are-saying-about-daryn/) - WXIA-TV:Hope Possible: Former CNN Anchor's Life of Reinvention - [This Website Is About...](https://darynkagan.com/uplifting-positive-stories-overcoming-obstacles/) - Seems like it wasn't that long ago that the big boss at CNN called me into his office. I thought he was calling me in to tell me what a great job I had done on breaking news that day. Turns out, he called me in to tell me that after more than 12 years, ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://darynkagan.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Friendship](https://darynkagan.com/category/friendship/) - [The Hard Stuff](https://darynkagan.com/category/the-hard-stuff/) - [Animals](https://darynkagan.com/category/animals/) - [Pets](https://darynkagan.com/category/pets/) - [Heroes](https://darynkagan.com/category/uplifting-stories/heroes/) - [Great Giving](https://darynkagan.com/category/uplifting-stories/great-giving/) - [Best Girlfriends Ever](https://darynkagan.com/category/friendship/best-girlfriends-ever/) - [Books](https://darynkagan.com/category/books/) - [Chickens](https://darynkagan.com/category/animals/chickens-2/) - [Family](https://darynkagan.com/category/family-2/) - [Husband's Crazy Frequent Flyer Mile Hobby](https://darynkagan.com/category/husbands-crazy-frequent-flyer-mile-hobby/) - [I Screwed Up](https://darynkagan.com/category/i-screwed-up/) - [In-Laws](https://darynkagan.com/category/in-laws-2/) - 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