Grief – Bird Lady of Turtle Island

Uncovering Black Folk’s Environmental Legacies in Agriculture

Great news! I have recently signed a book contract with Louisiana State University Press for my manuscript titled Pest Control: Birds, Black Folk, and the History of Environmental Consciousness in the U.S. South. It will be complete in December 2027. I am thrilled. From my proposal: Over the past two decades, there has been aContinue reading “Uncovering Black Folk’s Environmental Legacies in Agriculture”

The Griever’s New Year- and some Gospel music

Sufi philosophy suggests that death is akin to a reconnection—a joyous reunion for those who lived their lives in unity and love. This imagery resonates deeply as I think of my precious child, who embodied pure love and exuberance.

Finding Light in Costa Rica: A Mom’s Journey on the Anniversary of her childloss

August 3rd marks a bittersweet milestone—it’s the fifth anniversary of my precious son’s ascension to Heaven. As I sit here reflecting on the past, I feel an overwhelming mix of love and sorrow. The day still feels heavy, and the pain doesn’t ease with time.

RED MAPLE TRUNK JUNCTION! Birds of my parents’ yard!

Tufted Titmouse and Common Grackle side by side at base of maple tree

Today, I witnessed a beautiful congregation of birds at the base of the Red Maple Tree. It was heartwarming to see the camaraderie among them, from the striking Common Grackles to the cheerful Tufted Titmice and spirited Carolina Chickadees. The Mournful Doves cooed softly,

The Making of My Book: A Tribute to Life and Loss

Finishing my trade book took me back to the final months of my AngelChild’s time on Earth.Going through all those interviews with Great Dismal Swamp descendants, re-interpreting meaning, reliving the pandemic before the vaccine and confronting my evolving acceptance of life and loss was in itself a trial. Despite the struggle, I finished and IContinue reading “The Making of My Book: A Tribute to Life and Loss”

My Heaven Child’s 19th Birthday in Heaven

On a Heaven child’s birthday, we know that the object is to celebrate the beautiful memory and miracle of their birth. I love my son as much as the day I birthed him, as much as they day of funeral, and I love him still as a Spirit child in Heaven.✨ Celebrating You Today ✨Continue reading “My Heaven Child’s 19th Birthday in Heaven”

ON THE 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF MY SON’S PASSING

The griever’s year aligns with sacramental time, ritualized through memory, legacy, struggle, pain, mourning, and an intense abiding love that penetrates the realms.

Black Birders Week 2024, I was a featured Speaker!

I had the pleasure of being invited to Black Birders Week programming this past May! Nicole Jackson, ecological and wildlife education extraordinaire, contacted me, and I was glad to accept! The link for the recording: Make sure to check out the programming from other illustrious speakers too! https://www.blackafinstem.com/2024-themes-and-press-statement In Louisiana, in April 2025, I photographedContinue reading “Black Birders Week 2024, I was a featured Speaker!”