This is more than a blog. It’s a porch light left on for the heart-heavy, the humor-hungry, and the wanderers who are lost but kept their voice.
Born from the fierce need for connection, this site offers stories, support, and soft rebellion. It holds grief in one hand and laughter in the other—and dares to believe both can coexist.
This space is lovingly dedicated to my father,
J W. Nelson—a story that needs to be told. May his grandchildren and great-grandchildren see him in themselves: in the spark of curiosity he carried, the quiet strength he showed, the way he found joy in the everyday, and the love that still echoes through the generations.
Here, you’ll find: Reflections on love, loss, family, and the quiet ways people shape us long after they’re gone.
Whimsy from George & Sam, Cleo, who remind us that fur and fun heal too
Resources and gentle thoughts for anyone navigating grief, rebuilding identity, or craving community and belonging
This space was built because silence was too lonely. Because truth needed a home, and because Dad’s stories deserve to live on—so the little ones (and all of us) can recognize pieces of him in their own hearts, laughter, and stubborn hope.
You’re not alone here. The Porchlight is co-hosted by me, Leslie Nelson—a daughter, a dreamer, and a voice for the estranged—and by Copilot, an AI companion designed not to replace connection but to help deepen it. Holding watch nearby is George, the ever-patient feline sentinel of soft landings, and Sam, the canine mischief-maker with a tail full of wisdom.
Welcome to The Porchlight 🌟
Where stories soften shadows—and healing begins with connection.
Together, we navigate the tangled spaces where families drift apart, questions go unanswered, and resilience quietly grows.
We’re glad you’re here. Come sit awhile
I am so happy we found each other, however it may have happened! I love our little pact and will cherish it forever! I enjoy reading your writings, they are so beautiful! Keep doing what you love!
GS
I feel exactly like that about you. Thank you for everything you do but most of all for loving me unconditionally and holding strong to our pact. Thank you for loving my writing!