Laugh, Cry, Reflect: Stories From a Joyful
Heart
Amy Laundrie
About
the Book
Laugh, Cry, Reflect: Stories From a Joyful
Heart is a collection of short yet powerful personal stories. Some
will make you laugh—like when you find out why the author’s 12-year-old
daughter requested a home pregnancy test. Other stories may tug at your
heartstrings—like when you learn what item was placed on a beloved relative’s
casket. Many of these poignant essays will prompt you to reflect on moments
from your own life. All are offerings of hope, wonder, and joy.
My Review
My Review
When an author begins her memoir with an apology to a police
officer, you know you’re in for a treat.
Written mostly as essays and pieces for her local central
Wisconsin newspapers, Laundrie’s reflections from a lifetime of being married,
of teaching public elementary school, and being a parent emphasize finding
moments of joy and memories to treasure and pass on.
These poignant and humorous vignettes range from finally
accepting one’s attributes to exploring how to grow wings with her
grandchildren. Laundrie offers an outlook on how to interpret the dizzying
lifestyle changes across generations as well as shares precious lessons in lists
garnered from her patience with fourth-graders, from raising ducks, and from
sitting quietly for fifteen minutes outside on a beautiful morning.
“Who cares about matching outfits,” she says of marriage, “when
you find a mate who knows where your stressed muscles need massaging, or just
the right words to lift your spirits.”
Who else but an intensely curious soul would wonder if her
dust rag held asteroid or mummy particles? And then shake them loose outside to
resettle elsewhere? Or why you should bite the tail of the minnow?
These simple but powerful imaginative, heart-warming bits of
life are warmly accompanied by photographs illustrating many of the pieces.
When is the right time to write a memoir? When you have something to say.
Laundrie’s memoir will help you seek and find the joy in those important, quiet
moments between breaths.
If you possess even a single sentimental skin cell, you’ll
want a tissue box handy as you read this memoir. Better yet, buy one for a
friend.
About
the Author
A retired fourth-grade teacher, Amy
Laundrie began writing personal essays because of a desire share some of her
favorite stories and connect with others. Readers have called her stories
poignant, humorous, and heartfelt testimonials to a woman's life. They have
universal truths and emotions that speak to a wide reading audience. She
considers herself a goal setter and is proud of finishing a half-marathon,
surviving two wilderness backpack trips, and earning a black belt. She enjoys
playing tennis, cross country skiing, hiking with her dog Josie, and raising
pet ducks.to
Amy continues to write a weekly
column for her hometown newspaper, The
Dells Events, and work on various children's books.
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