I started a new job this week. My first day consisted of an all-day orientation and training. The words I heard the most for the first two hours were “culture” and “community.” I work for an organization where culture is the thing that is valued most. This is because that culture affects the entire community. …

Greek philosopher Plato is quoted as having said “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” I often agree with this. To start a new project, chore or duty can often be the most daunting task. We procrastinate.  We make excuses.  We find something or someone else that “needs” our attention. Sound familiar? …

“Mommy, you’re always working. You never have time to play with me.”  My oldest daughter (age 8) said these sentences to me about three weeks ago. She said it out of the blue in the middle of the day.  She said it sincerely with a disappointed look.  It brought me to tears almost instantly.  I …

I draw most of my inspiration for my writing from real people and real experiences.  From things I witness to conversations I overhear to the hilarity I spy in my own home, nothing is sacred. I may turn around and write about you.  Therefore, I believe it’s time I read you your “Mrs. Mandy Warning” …

I gave the invocation at my Toastmasters group meeting last week.  This part of the meeting is designed to be inspirational and set the tone.  A few days prior to my delivering this 1 to 3 minute speech, I gathered my thoughts.  What did I want to say? I thought about a helpful meeting I had with …

Will a difference you make OR a space you take? This was a billboard sign I read recently. Wow, that was a powerful question indeed.  It truly had me pondering.  A few years ago, I would have just dismissed the message without much regard. Now the words matter to me. I have no interest in just taking up …

Like most people in their twenties, I had fun in those years and didn’t work too hard.  I dreamed away the first thirty years of my life with no regrets. After I entered the third decade however, I began to want more.  I began to contemplate less and take more action.  My head floated down from the clouds and …

The world needs more children’s books.  And more adults need to read them in this uncertain, disturbing society that we often live in. As I read book after book to my kids today, I heard all the important messages that we adults need to remember.  I felt uplifted and hopeful after hearing simple reminders of: …

Only takes one… One word One expression One smile One thought One heart One beat One resolution One you One me One million odds One world One love One step One leap One push One fight One victory One moment One pause One breakthrough One tear One laugh One life One blessing One chance One gift One need …

A few days ago I had a one-on-one meeting with a very influential, powerful female leader. I respect her immensely. We talked casually and openly.  I shared my aspirations, current graduate school studies and future career ideas. This leader gave me her no-filtered, blunt advice. She does not hold back. I appreciated that. But as she …