A Question About New Opportunities
Today on the walk to school, we wondered how the trees know when to stop growing. Why do all the trees before us stop at the same height like that? What determines how high they grow? I didn’t know the answer, so of course, I must find out. I learn that trees want to grow […]
In Good Time
My flight from Colorado Springs now arrives exactly when my Chicago flight departs for State College. Oh, flight delays! I detest them! I approach the ticket agent for help, and I remark, “I’m praying the Chicago flight has a delay! Then I’d make the connection.” The agent looks up from her incessant typing and pauses, […]
5 Things I’ve Finally Learned about Public Speaking
I had an incredible time speaking to the wonderful women at the Woodmen Women’s Conference in Colorado Springs this weekend. As I prepared to go on stage, I was laughing with one of the conference coordinators about all the little things I’ve learned from experience that nobody teaches you about public speaking. So far, I’ve […]
Little Pleasures
I recently discovered the Dutch treat called Stroopwafel. It’s a toasted waffle filled with caramel, cinnamon, and vanilla. In my town, I can only find them at a little store off the beaten path. They’re made in Holland! They are amazing! You set the round Stroopwafel on top of your coffee mug, and the steam […]
I Don’t Think So
This morning, my youngest daughter warmed my heart. I was leaving for the airport for a conference, and she spoke with my husband about all he would have to do to take care of her after school. In particular, she talked about her regular play dates and the ever crucial snack. “You know,” she says, […]
Always a Little Writing Lesson
We’re noticing the power of “repeated first words” in writing. My students implement the strategy, and they find their writing carries a new force. They find they create urgency. They find a new, weightier feel to their words. They find they have a voice. See how I did that? I repeated “they find” to create […]
When You Face Criticism
I laughed out loud when I read this quote by Dwight Moody this morning. I’m not sure of the original source, but here’s what I read. Apparently, when people criticized Moody for his methods in evangelism, he said this: “It is clear you don’t like my way of doing evangelism. You raise some good points. […]
“There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he does not mind who gets the credit.” –the plaque President Reagan kept on his desk
I’ve been thinking about a quote I heard last week. It’s this: “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he does not mind who gets the credit.” This quote, according to the Reaganfoundation.org, was on a plaque that President Ronald Reagan kept on his desk in […]
What You Want, In a Different Form
I know this is one of my most random analogies to follow, but living with flair has always been about finding meaning and beauty in our ordinary days. And what’s more ordinary than. . . peanut butter? Yes, ever since I’ve been on my weight loss and fitness journey, I haven’t had much peanut butter. It […]
Tiny Little Movements
This morning I heard a great analogy to remember when you are trying to make any sort of life change. My friend says life change is like this: When a big semi-trailer truck tries to change direction and make a u-turn on a small a two lane highway, it seems impossible. If you’ve ever watched this […]