Legacy Magazine

02/13/2024

Nurture your most intimate relationship by downloading this month’s free resource—The Love You Want.
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The full interview with also includes Corie’s practical advice for service couples. After reading The Love You Want, you’ll feel empowered to renew connection + forge a deeper bond with your partner.
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Check out the free resource library via the link in bio to download your copy of The Love You Want ❤️

01/16/2024

“This sense of serenity, this solace that stitched itself into the fabric of my daily life, was not by chance but rather the result of small, daily practices.”

While last year was filled with highs + lows, Legacy Editor-in-Chief .lmft reflects + shares a few life-giving practices that made room for daily moments of serenity in the January Legacy Letter. As you read the letter, you’ll discover space to pause + cast a sustainable vision for the year ahead.

What practice, rhythm, or activity do you hope to implement this coming year? 

12/20/2023

As 2023 comes to a close and 2024 is mere calendar page turn away, this can be a time where we are reaching to gather strength for what is coming.

If you are needing an extra dose of courage, and to quiet the naysaying voices within, then greet .r.thompson in her daring essay where she combines the experience of helodunker training with taking the unexpected route through life, and all the rewards that come after.

In her Legacy Essay, Fighting Through Fear, we get to walk away from Barb’s words motivated to take our next brave and bold step forward.

What does that look like for you? Link in bio.

12/16/2023

“As we talked through the memories, my heart swelled with grief and gratitude. Life will always be a mixture of both.”

In our December Legacy Letter, .swo writes through holiday seasons that went awry, and while those moments tested her family, they found that they could either choose to be bitter, or find the unexpected sweetness that still existed.

We invite you to reflect on your holiday seasons, past + present. It is ture that this time of year can hold both gratitude and grief. Make two columns and work through naming yours.

12/04/2023

How do you want to ease into the season ahead, or perhaps you’d like to rediscover clarity during the fast-approaching holidays?

Check out our free resource library for the End of Year Check In! This printable offers guided reflection + planning sheets to help you navigate the closing of another year.

12/04/2023

11/30/2023

Tucked inside a tiny camper, Melissa Mehring and the dear Esmeralda share blueberry pie, and something even more sweet: the stories that cross generations.
 
In her Legacy Essay, Esmeralda, join Melissa as she weaves the past and present threads of family history. As she writes, we get to savor the moment with them. 
 
This story might just help us to remember the distinct pleasure of being together with those we love, pausing to hear one another, and all the tales we have to tell.

Visit the link in our bio to read the full article.

11/30/2023

Essay Attached below

COPY FOR SOCIALS

Tucked inside a tiny camper, Melissa Mehring and the dear Esmeralda share blueberry pie, and something even more sweet: the stories that cross generations.
 
In her Legacy Essay, Esmeralda, join Melissa as she weaves the past and present threads of family history. As she writes, we get to savor the moment with them. 
 
This story might just help us to remember the distinct pleasure of being together with those we love, pausing to hear one another, and all the tales we have to tell.

Visit the link in our bio to read the full article.

11/17/2023

Do your creative muscles need a nudge of encouragement? Or maybe you’re looking for a fresh perspective to get you out of a rut.

Guest Contributor .r.thompson invites artists to reframe messes into miracles in this month’s creativity exercise:

During the time it takes for me to prepare my toddler’s lunch, he emerges covered from head to toe in his big sister’s eyeshadow.

“I’m a superhero!” he exclaimed, flexing his pudgy biceps in my direction.

With one deep breath, in and slowly out, I asked myself just one question, “Is this a mess or a miracle?”

Bathroom mirrors—cleanable; bathroom floor—wipeable; toddler clothing—washable; a healthy boy beaming with imagination, curiosity, and initiative—an absolute miracle.

So there it was the first miracle of the day.

*** YOUR TURN TO WRITE ***

Choose a certain situation you’re facing right now and write until it clearly belongs in the miracle column.

It could be a daily frustration or something more challenging + chronic that’s been sticking around for far too long. Even if the fit isn’t just right yet, your changed perspective could just be the first miracle of the day!

// To receive monthly creative nudges, sign up for the Work of Words email list via the link in bio.

11/15/2023

What can Lightning McQueen show us about kindness + the will to move forward?
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Turns out ... a lot. This month’s Legacy Letter by .co shares, “There is so much to love and unravel about this scene, but the thing I want to zero in on most is what Lightning did for King Dinoco—the “bump draft” he gave to King to get him to that finish line.
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No matter how much I prepare or plan throughout the year, I find myself sputtering to make it to the finish line year after year.
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But this year is kind of different. I’m still stalling out in many ways, but I’ve been gifted bump drafts by several people to make it through. Simple kindnesses that pull me back onto the racetrack, ushering me forward.
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The neighbor who brought me dinner after I had the baby and my husband went back to work.
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The friend on social media who validated the hardships of life, of adjusting to two young kids, of being everything to everyone.
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The dear friends near + far that send me texts, venmos, and encouragements and allow me to respond weeks later.
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The most trusted confidant who lets me vent all my ugly feelings of anger + envy as she validates, reassures, and speaks kindness back at me.
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The friends that come over and don’t say a word about my messy house but offer to hold the baby so I can do literally anything else.
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I don’t know about you, but these kindnesses, these small acts of love + care from others make it possible to keep going in this wild world. My hope is that however you are moving toward the end of this year you will receive + bestow kindness as you approach the finish line.”
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// swipe to the end to reflect + create your own list of bump drafts 🤍
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10/31/2023

When we uproot our lives often, home can be a hard thing or place to define.
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How do we cultivate a sense of security, of grounding when our routines + scenery frequently change?
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How do we make a home within the temporary walls around us for our family to thrive in?
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And how do we grapple with our evolving identity in parenthood as kids get older + leave home?
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Cozy up to this month’s free download, “Home is a Feeling” by Claire Wood, and explore the sorrows + joys of your own wrestling with home.
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Visit the link in bio to download the essay 🏡 or check your email for the October Legacy Letter link.
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// essay by
art by ​​​​​​​​
design by
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Fort Liberty. Mothering. Military Spouse. Seasoned Spouse. Moore County. Parenting Teenagers. Home. Water Color.

10/27/2023

We all have times when life can feel like too much. And we feel not enough.
 
What happens when we start to ruminate on our past? Was life easier then? Who were we compared to who we are now? 
Do we like what we see?
 
In her Legacy Essay, Unraveled, join writer .co as she holds her past and her present up to the light.
 
What she finds might surprise you, and help you to hold yourself more gently, too.
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Link in bio.
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| Motherhood | Creative Writing | Therapeutic Writing |

10/17/2023

I have always felt that October is settle-in season.
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It comes after summer travel but before holiday plans. PCS season is over. The new September routine doesn’t feel as wild. There are pleasant settle-in things to do—adjust the lighting as the days grow shorter, plant some spring bulbs before the trouble of raking leaves, invite a new acquaintance to coffee and maybe make the switch from iced to hot, add some books to the Libby hold list, decide on a professional development course.

Settle-in season comes with all the cozy elements of sweater weather, PSLs, and limited-edition favorites at Trader Joe’s. But it also comes with facing the reality of, “This is what my life looks like now,” and that’s not always comfortable.

I made the brilliant choice of quitting my job just before I became an empty nester, adding loss on top of repeated rejection. Now, my dog drags me out of bed when the sun is well up and I reward myself for any sort of completed responsibility with a nap or an escape into a book with characters leading vibrant lives.
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//Excerpt from this month's Legacy Letter by . To read the full essay, visit your inbox, or sign up at the link in our bio.

Military Spouse. Veteran. Change. Mothering.

10/10/2023

What do you do when another deployment is upon you?
 
Writer Ashley Phillips reaches for her tools, which include: “a day planner and black ballpoint pen, a stack of envelopes, and stationery.”
 
She sits and pens letter upon letter, aligning them with holidays she and her spouse will miss together, filling them with hopes, dreams, and encouragement for him to continue forward in a career he loves on a mission he cares for. 
 
She works to assure him she'll be fine while he's away. But will she?
 
In her Legacy Essay, The Deployment Paper, join Ashley as she works through pre-deployment tension. As she writes, she wishes him well + thinks through her own journey ahead. This exercise might just help them both depart and return with better-connected hearts. Link in Bio
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|Deployment | Creative Writing | Creative Non-fiction | Military Spouse | Service Spouse |

10/02/2023

Most likely we've all heard the saying, "It takes a village" in regards to raising kids or surviving tough seasons. But in military life, what does a village actually look like?
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Perhaps it's time to redefine your village.
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Is your village one friend or many?
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Local or friends that support you from across the country?
Maybe you rely on different friends for different aspects of your life (parenting, marriage, career, dreams)?
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In the comments, let us know how you're redefining your village. 🫶
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//photo by .botts via
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09/29/2023

Have you claimed this month's free companion resource?
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Take a step towards daily hope and healing with six iPhone Wallpapers. Let these affirmations serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and resilience amidst life's challenges.
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If you're a Legacy Letters recipient, then the gift is in your inbox. If not, you can claim these and nine other resources at the link in our bio.

09/25/2023

This summer, we had the opportunity to attend a private fundraising event for hosted by Brittany Paschal.
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The event was in support of their Heal The Heroes initiative, which is dedicated to aiding military veterans and first responders find the healing they need during and after their transition from service careers to civilian life.
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Each year, 104 Heroes - comprising four platoons of 26 veterans and first responders - complete the year-long Heal The Heroes Program. After completion, these Heroes become part of the Heal the Heroes Veterans Community. This community is a continuous support system that unites past, present, and future platoons, providing enduring support, opportunities, and motivation.
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The larger goal of Aerial Recovery is to not just help nations recover, but to emerge stronger than before, thereby eliminating desperation-driven human trafficking. To accomplish this, they employ highly qualified, trained, and elite military veterans as Humanitarian Operators. These operators are deployed worldwide to respond to both man-made and natural disasters, using the Special Forces tactic known as Force Multiplication.
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To learn more about their active missions, and opportunities for you or a loved one to get involved, hop on over to their site today!
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09/19/2023

As I return to my cooking, I ponder these questions. The aroma of the simmering soup filling the room mirrors the mix of emotions within me. I think of a phrase that I often offer to clients in their darkest moments: "It's okay to not be okay." A simple yet profound statement that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced loss. It reminds us that it's okay to feel, to hurt, to grieve. Our struggles don't make us weak; they make us human.

We are all walking through this labyrinth of life, navigating its twists and turns, its highs and lows, its joys and sorrows. We are all wrestling with our own demons, bearing our own crosses, and mending our own broken hearts. Yet, even in the midst of our darkest nights, we are not alone.

There is something profoundly healing about witnessing and being invited into someone else's pain. It's a raw, intimate moment of shared humanity that strips away our masks and lays bare our vulnerabilities. It reminds us that in our suffering, we are united. It offers us a mirror to our own pain, a compass to navigate our own grief, and a lifeline to hold onto when the waves of sorrow threaten to pull us under.

While I stand in my warm, bustling kitchen amidst the chaos and clutter of everyday life, I am reminded of the strength that lies within me, within all of us. I am reminded that it's okay to not have all the answers, to feel vulnerable, to be real. For even in the face of loss and grief, life continues to unfold in all its messy, beautiful glory. And as we navigate this journey, let us remember that, at times, it's okay not to be okay. For in our shared humanity, in our shared vulnerability, we find not only comfort but also the courage to heal, grow, and love again.
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Part 3 of this month's Legacy Letter. To read in its entirety, visit your inbox, or sign up at the link in our bio.

09/15/2023

Pursuing health and wellness can be a unique journey, especially for parents and caretakers. The challenges may be due to limited time, scarce resources, or the question of how and where to start.
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That's why we've created The Journal Camp, an exclusive gift for participants of the Independent Wellness Summit 2023. It's designed to inspire a self-care routine that requires just 10 minutes of your day.
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Did you know that journaling carries significant benefits? It can help reduce stress, fortify confidence, and enhance memory.
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We've carefully curated prompts like 'Pieces of You', 'Support', and 'Intimacy', specifically considering the needs of the military community. So, find your cozy spot with a warm drink ☕️, and immerse yourself in introspection and storytelling.
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To claim your Journal Camp, register for IWS22 today! It kicks off on Monday, September 18!

09/13/2023

A look into the experience of our Work of Words Fall 2023 cohort.
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Our very own signed up to take the course, which goes to show that even seasoned writers have much to gain from the experience.
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Swipe to see a sample of the generous feedback provided by course instructor, .swo, which is a key component of the Work of Words. This style of feedback not only encourages improvement but also fosters a supportive learning environment for all participants.

09/12/2023

🎉 We're thrilled to share that we've been exploring selling opportunities with a major retailer. 🎉
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This partnership would not only help get Legacy into the hands of more military families but also reduce the cost of shipping and help generate additional revenue for Legacy's contributors and affiliates.
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Can you guess which retailer we might be referring to?
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Comment below with your best guess!

09/06/2023

In the midst of my mental checklist, I hear the squeak of the garage door, followed by the sound of giggling. Lucy, my youngest, bounds into the kitchen, her cheeks flushed with excitement. "Mommy, we're going to do a play!" she announces, her eyes sparkling. Behind her stands her neighborhood friend, both of them brimming with youthful energy.

I smile, putting aside the carrots I am chopping. "That sounds like fun. What's it about?”

"We're sisters," Lucy begins, her voice grave, "and both of our parents died, so we have to learn how to work and take care of ourselves.”

I feel a pang in my chest. Such a heavy theme for such young minds.

But then again, maybe it isn’t so surprising. After all, they are growing up in a world where loss is a common thread woven into the fabric of our lives.

Just then, my phone buzzes. A text from my husband. "Memorial this weekend for our command’s LCSW.”

The reminder hits me like a punch in the gut. This marks the fourth loss in the span of two months for our friends and family.

Their LCSW had been a beacon of hope and strength in my husband’s command, offering comfort and guidance in times of crisis. Her loss is another blow to a community that has endured too many.

I stare at the screen, my mind swirling. How does one continue to show up for others when they themselves are navigating a sea of grief? How do I explain to my daughters the harsh realities of life without shattering their innocence?

A segment from .lmft for September’s Legacy Letter. To continue reading, check your inbox or sign up at the link in our bio—and also access this month’s companion resource.

08/28/2023

Be a rebel. Have a good Monday.

08/23/2023

As the final days of summer approach, there's nothing quite like treating yourself to a fun, engrossing novel. Basking in the remaining rays of the season, allow yourself to be swept away by the vibrant narratives and compelling characters from our core team's top fictional picks.
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus | A captivating novel set in the 1960s, following the story of Elizabeth Zott, a trailblazing chemist who defies societal norms and expectations for women in her field. After losing her job in a male-dominated laboratory, Elizabeth finds herself hosting a popular TV cooking show, where she uses her scientific knowledge to educate viewers while subtly challenging gender stereotypes. -Abi
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐ Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | W️hat a visually descriptive + unpredictable book! I was late to the party to read this book, but I can see why it's a book club must. -Courtnie
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan | Historical fiction can be a genre that both illuminates and teaches the reader about extraordinary people and circumstances and Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan is one that does both. I highlighted so many passages in this book, as I enjoyed visiting with C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. -Lindsay
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Can you tell we have a thing for strong female characters?!

08/11/2023

Are you ready to nourish your creativity, write with confidence and clarity, and receive generous feedback on your work?

Do you want to grow within a community that understands military life, and holds space for where you are and the story you are living?

Then the Work of Words writing course is for you.

It's the last day to join! Our next cohort will be in 2024.

Your story matters + we are always here to cheer you on!

08/09/2023

Thank you to everyone that expressed interest in our recent model call.

Due to an overwhelmingly positive response, we are hoping to host another creative shoot in the fall, so keep an eye out!

Here’s a sneak peek from this weekend. ✨

08/07/2023

Legacy Vol III contributor spotted in the wilds of the Mid-Ohio Valley on our Editor-in-Chief .lmft recent trip home. ✨

We love seeing this community of creatives flourish and grow!!

07/24/2023

The military changes our plans constantly.

We scramble to keep up with ever-shifting PCS dates, homecoming dates are shuffled, or a new set of orders are issued…
and we wonder, how do we re-establish stability?

In her Legacy Essay, Unexpected Orders, join Army officer, writer, and teacher Marissa Cina in her home as she engages in a tough conversation with her spouse about their surprise set of circumstances.

The active-duty couple moves from heartache to a healthy discussion and we learn brave acceptance and bold trust as Marissa leans on her faith and love.

Head over to Legacy Essays on the blog to reflect on what happens when our original hopes do not work out, and follow Marissa's lead to trust the path set before us.

// essay by + photography by

07/20/2023

What's inside the Work of Words?

The Work of Words is a 6-week course with two weeks for your final essay and zoom celebration. This course has been cultivated for those within and supporting the service community.

You will develop your own personal narrative, primarily through creative nonfiction form. Each lesson will include writing exercises, detailed reading examples, and audio recordings (in case you're on the go).

You'll be given weekly, generous feedback on your essays while strengthening connections with fellow creatives.

"I would recommend this course to anyone looking to broaden their creative horizon, strengthen their writing, and connect with like-minded military spouses. I came to the course hoping to write more. I left with a newfound love for writing and a group of fellow writers I now consider friends.”

- Sarah Ortiz Benson, Work of Words Participant + writer now featured on Legacy's Blog

Our next cohort will open soon; we can't wait to create with you!

✍️ Did you know we have a waitlist that also receives monthly creative prompts?

Join THE WORK OF WORDS waitlist in our link list today!