A Kindred Spirits Farewell

Goodbyes are never easy, and this one is especially hard for me because over the years I have met so many wonderful “kindred spirits” through Kentucky Living. So forgive me for taking one final stroll down memory lane.

When this column was born back in 1996, I had just turned 40 years old. While that might be a little old to give birth to a baby, it was a great age to start a magazine column.

Over the years, I’ve poured my heart out to you and you have responded with kindness and love. Many times when I went to the grocery store or shopping, I came home with more than what was on my list: I would bump into friends and neighbors and they would make my day brighter by referring to my column and saying they identified with something I said.

It’s a good feeling knowing that we’re not alone in this world, and even though you were probably unaware, you held my hand through some hard times and lifted me a little higher during the happy moments. You gave me warm fuzzies and hugs with your words, and for that I sincerely say “thanks.”

I would also like to thank my family for supplying me with enough material to write this column for 13 years, and for being good sports when I teased or exaggerated just a tad. You are the best.

I’ve talked about your high school graduations, the death of our beloved Grandma Layne, the birth of our first grandchild, rules for college, the crazy things that happen to my brother and sister-in-law and my three nephews, my wonderful husband of almost 30 years, and even your shoe sizes, and never, not even once, have you complained. Thank you, I love each of you dearly.

Although I may be leaving Kentucky Living, I invite each of you to keep up with me online at www.TeresaKindred.com. There you’ll find the same slice of life that I trust you’ve come to enjoy from me, but on my blog. There are inspirational stories for moms and teachers, and most anyone who needs a good laugh and encouragement.

As a Christian author, I also have several books available, the most recent, Mom PhD—A Simple 6-Step Course on Leadership for Moms. Order a book or read more under the “Books” tab.

And if you’re ever in need of a public speaker, I have several presentations for groups such as educators, moms, kids, and Christian women. You can find out more under the “Appearances” tab.

So farewell from Kentucky Living, but I hope our paths cross again. May the good Lord bless you and keep you in his care.