When I lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, I took part in a program called “Leadership for Five Seasons.” It was one of those year long programs where young leaders could learn about the community with the intention of discovering the volunteer opportunities they’d love. At graduation, we were all given a tag line, and since …
Can Women Talk About Shoes and Still be Taken Seriously? Read More »
As a child of the 60s, decked-out in my bell-bottoms, peace-symbol shirt and dangling love-beads, I dreamed about being creatively me. In my mind, creativity and freedom held hands and made a fist at the establishment—anyone over 40. Looking at 40 from the other side, I realize that I didn’t know what I didn’t …
This story is 5 years old, yet it rings true today! Cara STILL has her degree and her education, and still inspires others with her story. ********* A college degree is one of the best gifts you’ll ever give yourself. It’s deliciously something you do for you and only you. It can’t be transferred, stollen …
There was once a person (just like you or me) standing on a hill in a land not very far away. Let’s call this person Chris. All of a sudden on this sunny day, Chris heard the grass rustle and out of nowhere, came a tiger. The tiger began to chase Chris. Of course the …
In honor of “Shark Week,” I’d like to say I’ve learned this fact: If it weren’t for the shark events (problems) in our lives, we wouldn’t have any lessons, spice or drama. In other words, our lives would be dull. Yet we don’t usually think of them in that light. Some of us are afraid …
Do you have a brother who means the world to you? I have 3, but today I’d like you to meet Lenis Edward Whalen—or Doc, as he’s called. He’s the doctor you’ll meet at Whalen Chiropractic in Zephyrhills, Florida. At one time, Dad didn’t think Len or I were “college material,” so the day Len …
Happy Birthday to the Boy who wasn’t “College Material” Read More »
“You are the perfect age” remains my favorite phrase. It’s the title of one of my books and the trademark of all of my greeting cards. It a bold and optimistic sentence, but every year or so, I ask myself What’s the best lesson for me at this perfect age? How about those 20s? If …
Do you have the patience of a farmer when it comes to publishing your first book? After visiting my first home-state of Minnesota last week, I got to see the grand finale of the farming year—the HARVEST. Growing up, I don’t remember the semis in the fields and the monster tractors, yet it was …
We’ve all been there. You are about to release your book to the public, but instead of pure pleasure, you detect a familiar anxiousness—as if you’re a 3rd grader delivering a speech to squirming classmates. Writing is intensely personal. Exposing your words, thoughts, and life experiences in this in this public forum feels a little …
