Amanda Shepard

Like lots of small towns, it seems like everyone knows everything about everyone around here. If you went to high school with me you probably know I got married at 18 years old. One month shy of my 19th birthday my husband was two months shy of 21. We eloped to Napa and then had a small reception the following weekend at my grandparents house in Janesville. The same spot my own parents had gotten married at 18 years prior. In January 2020 we decided to end our six and a half year marriage. Well, if I am really honest I decided to end our marriage and my husband agreed. It was the most difficult decision to make as a wife and mother. I asked myself a thousand times if it was the best choice. I think anyone who has experienced divorce knows that this isn't an overnight decision and its not something you choose unless you think it is the best option for yourself and your family. I believe from the bottom of my heart that every person has the right to live a happy life and that I don...

Twenty-Five. What a weird age right?   Suddenly a quarter of a century. Suddenly closer to 30. I wont lie, I have been having a little bit of a freak out about turning 25, but time stops for no one and tomorrow is the big day! So, I thought I would try to make myself feel better by documenting some of the best lessons I have learned so far. Maybe this will help someone younger along the way.    I tried to do this somewhat chronologically, enjoy: 1. Your sister is your friend for life, even if you don't always get along. 2. Patience is a virtue. 3. No matter your religious affliction you can choose to believe your loved ones who have passed on are watching over you. 4. Fuzzy socks on polished floors result in busted chins.  5. You CAN wear too much eyeliner and there WILL be a photo to document it somewhere.  6. Some friends are only in your life for a season. 7. Your worth is not determined by a boy, a man, or ANYONE'S opinion o...