Looking for Glitter in the Muck

Caitlin Bangsund

Bonjour, I’m Caitlin

I’m not French, but I dream of going to Paris. And of a world where we find delight even in the hard moments of life. I would like to invite you to meet Marvellous Macey, my daughter. She is the girl I didn’t know I always needed.

Love is dangerous and beautiful. I write to understand it. And to unravel grief and search for hope. I want to encourage you to press on, one tiny step at a time. The tiny steps count.

About

From My Diary To Your Inbox

Someone once told me that I "reek of authenticity." While I'm not quite sure how to patent that fragrance, I can promise you this: I'll be showing up sporadically in your inbox with stories that will make you laugh, cry, and often sigh with relief because you'll think, "She does that too?!" or "Good, I'm not the only one," or even, "She's WAY worse than I am!"

And, always, I'll be the whisper that reminds you just how much the tiny steps DO count.

What Others Say

"I can honestly tell you that when I feel defeated or am struggling through something I think of you and all your family has overcome and I find so much positivity and inspiration. I feel like I should thank you for that - you are simply just a very bright light and as you say in your story - you were meant to have Macey as yours - you were built for it!!!!"

~DD

"Caitlin will be releasing a children's book soon that is not only based on my niece's incredible journey to date, but adds representation that is much needed in children's literature. Teacher and educator friends, you're going to want this in your library.”

~ LC

"Macey is a remarkable girl with a miraculous story.”

~ TH

"Thanks for the inspiration Caitlin. Our family thinks of all of you often and we talk about Macey a lot. Whenever the kids feel like things are too much, I just say, ‘Remember Macey -- if she can be strong, so can you’ and it always pulls them through. She is indeed an inspiration to so many - and as her courageous Mama, by sharing your writing, you help us find our way forward too.”

~SR

Blog

Contentment right now? Here is to peace in the as-it-is-ness of today.

by Caitlin Bangsund | Feb 23, 2023

I want contentment in the now – not in the future version of everything. I critique life for all the ways it could improve (I critique myself and the people in my life – eek – I’m sorry people in my life) and I need my critical eye to see all the ways life already shines.

Do We Know How to Relax? Do You Want Relaxation or Perfection?

by Caitlin Bangsund | Aug 9, 2022

Deep breaths, vacations, time in nature, stepping away from routine, and meeting up with long-lost friends should help us reduce stress. We should walk back into ‘regular’ life feeling a little lighter.

Are we ever really reducing stress and anxiety (and lowing our blood pressure)?

My husband finds the glitter and reminds me of the upcoming election

by Caitlin Bangsund | Aug 28, 2021

Introducing A "guest blog" Disclaimer: if you are not from Canada (and maybe even Alberta, Canada) some of what follows may be as lost on you as it is on me (despite living in Alberta). There is a reason I never talk sports or politics (and it isn't only a lack...