JoyBoots Blog

Reflections on the emotional recovery experience and staying connected to your authentic self, to resilience, to growth, and to joy.

In and Out of Joy

March 21, 2025

I’m sitting in the large espresso colored leather chair that I’ve had in my living room for at least 15 years. It’s scruffy now. I love my living room. I

I sat with my hand on my heart

February 25, 2025

I sat with my hand on my heart. Taking a dose of my own medicine. Sitting with the feelings I have and offering myself compassion. Compassion for the pain of

Musings on recurring nightmares, Betsy Ross outfits, and ballet school

February 18, 2025

There is a young and childlike, nostalgic, even primitive part of myself, that wants to wrap up in the American flag. I don’t have a message to write on a

Can’t See the Path for the Fog

February 3, 2025

Last week in Austin we had several days where the fog hung low. Everything was gray, including my mood. What was fogging my mind? The effort it was taking to

Chaos on top of cancer?

January 29, 2025

Here’s what I’m thinking about the cancer experience this week. Isn’t it bad enough you have to get yourself to appointments when its cold and rainy? And that you don’t

Do you AVOID or do you OBSESS?

November 29, 2024

This is a trick question. Both have real benefits and both can lead you into dark places of isolation or overwhelm. Even when the immediate danger is over, you can

Finding Resilience in Uncertain Times

November 24, 2024

If you are a cancer survivor, you are used to living with uncertainty. But I’ve been hearing from so many people that the last few months have been even more

Ten Ways The Recent Election Is Like Being Diagnosed with Cancer

November 14, 2024

The biopsy came back and the news is not good. Here are 10 things the election and a cancer diagnosis have in common: To keep reading, consider being a JoyBoots

Feeling Moody?

September 27, 2024

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being. The experience of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment can lead to various emotional and psychological challenges. Here are some key points

Step One: Being Honest with Yourself about Cancer’s Impact

September 16, 2024

Before you can heal, you have to get real with yourself about what’s wrong. Seventeen years later, my life is still affected by the experience of cancer. This may not

DISCLAIMER
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and yoga teacher practicing in Austin, Texas. My writings and videos represent a combination of my own personal opinions and my professional training, but they do not reflect professional or medical advice. Interaction with me via the vlog or blog does not constitute a professional therapeutic relationship. For individualized professional advice, you should seek the services of a therapist who can dedicate the time necessary to get to know you and your physical and mental health needs. I do not assume liability for any portion or content of material on the vlog/blog and accept no liability for damage or injury resulting from your decision to interact with the website.

When I remember my Joy Boots… I feel grounded, connected to the earth and my place in it. I accept my body with its vulnerabilities and sensations. I am aware of my breathing and able to breathe deeply. I am connected to my own life force energy.