Introducing one of my all-time favourite humans, Kelsey.

Our paths first crossed in 2017, when my husband was posted to a US Air Force base in Phoenix, Arizona. I had no idea at the time that I’d become a witness to one of the most defining years of Kelsey’s life, the year she both became a mother and lost her beloved husband, Stephen, call sign "Trip."

Seven years on, we meet Kelsey at the beginning of a powerful new chapter. 

In this conversation, Kelsey shares her extraordinary journey through grief, love, and everything in between. We talk about the complexities of motherhood, the unexpected wisdom that can arise in heartbreak, the beauty of community, and the signs that love leaves behind.

I’m so grateful to share this space with her, and I hope you find as much depth, grace, and light in this conversation as I did.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Loss
05:55 Childhood Memories and Early Influences
06:41 Childhood Reflections and Early Influences
08:54 Love Story: Meeting Stephen
11:45 Navigating Long-Distance Relationships
14:57 College Life and Career Beginnings
17:46 Yoga Journey and Community Connections
24:50 Life in South Korea and Personal Growth
29:34 Becoming a Mother: The Journey Begins
37:37 Navigating Grief During Pregnancy
40:27 The Birth of Georgia and Love's Depth
41:50 The Tragic Loss of Stephen
47:35 Community Support in Times of Grief
49:34 Surprises in Grief and Dark Humor
53:45 Wisdom from Grief: What to Do and Not Do
01:01:15 Making Big Decisions in Grief
01:06:37 Adjusting to Life in Cincinnati
01:09:31 Embracing Family Dynamics and Support
01:11:36 Personal Growth Through Yoga and Healing
01:14:51 Navigating Motherhood and Independence
01:17:53 Living with Grief and Connection
01:21:36 Signs from Beyond: Connecting with Loved Ones
01:24:26 Evolving Beliefs About Life and Afterlife
01:26:33 Finding Joy and Playfulness in Grief
01:32:05 Goals for the Future: Maintaining Peace and Creativity

You can find Kelsey's beautiful work and follow along on her next adventures on Instagram @kelseygrace.co

And don't forget to follow along for the next installments of Kind of a Mess on Instagram too - @kind_of_a__mess