Grief is complicated, but communicating doesn’t have to be!

Let’s move beyond “I don’t know what to say.”

On August 24, 2023, my world changed forever when we lost our eldest child, Annie Lauren. The unimaginable sorrow of that day left me shattered, and amidst my grief, I kept hearing the phrase, “I don’t know what to say.”

This sentiment, echoed by friends and family, highlights the painful wall that often separates the grieving from those who wish to comfort them. It serves as a reminder that grief can create silence, isolating us when we need connection the most.

“There is nothing you or I can say that will eliminate the pain of loss.
But there are things we can do to alleviate it.”

I discovered that one of the things that has helped alleviate the pain are thoughtful, well-meaning questions about Annie, our family, and my heart.

These questions spark conversations and allow me to share cherished memories and stories of Annie that some friends who had never known her didn’t get to see. They also provide an opportunity to talk about the difficulties in our new normal and what it is like for me to go through different situations.

These moments of vulnerability taught me that connection is possible, even in difficult times.

With this newfound understanding, I set out to help others move beyond “I don’t know what to say.”

For over 20 years, I had dedicated my work to guiding others through transitional moments, now, facing a huge transition, I found myself asking God:

“Now What?”

As I navigated this transition, I saved cards, texts, and posts, noting the questions that helped and continue to help me. So that I can walk alongside grievers and their loved ones, serving as a resource that opens a door in the wall of grief that often accompanies loss.

It’s my prayer that no one has to navigate their sorrow alone.

The Community

The Porch: A Quiet Place in Grief

THE PORCH: A Quiet Place in Grief is a faith-centered community for women learning how to live forward with loss—without minimizing it or rushing healing.

This space is intentionally separate from social media noise, politics, advertising, and distraction.

This is a place for progress—without pressure.

Learn More

Beyond “I Don’t Know What to Say” Grief Cards

$24.99

Created from my personal journey of losing my daughter, Annie Lauren, these Grief Communication Cards help when silence feels heavy and words are hard to find. Each card offers a gentle prompt to move beyond ‘I don’t know what to say,’ sparking heartfelt conversations that honor memories, create space for comfort, and bring connection in times of loss.

89 in stock

Listen to Annie’s Story

Comfort in the Silence

A 5-Day Reflection on Walking with Grief

Join me on a 5-Day journey reflecting on walking in our grief. Grief can feel so isolating, and my prayer is that what you find here reminds you that you are not alone. When you sign up, for the next 5 days, you’ll receive Comfort in the Silence — short reflections with Scripture, encouragement, and simple prompts to help you pause, remember, and rest. Take them at your own pace. Some days you may linger, and that’s perfectly okay. You’ll also be subscribed to me email newsletter where I share encouragement and stories from this side of grief.