11.11.2009

Women Inspiring Women, Read all about It

Inspiring Books for Marketers:

Author Mary Lou Quinlan made her debut of her new book What She's Not Telling You at a Procter & Gamble marketing training that I attended.

She inspired us all to do power listening and search for the whole truth. Mary Lou writes about the risks of relying on focus groups and 'literal listening'. I agree, you need to understand at a much deeper level.

I hope the book inspires you too. My favorite quote is "start marketing with women, and stop marketing to them."

I was the Tampax Pearl Assistant Brand Manager and the book mentions one of my commercials as an example in the section about secrets/silent pride (Thanks Mary Lou!): "While it's an easy laugh to see women trying not to be seen buying a pregnancy kit in a drugstore, more marketers in the feminine categories would be wise to help her keep a little dignity in the aisle or "pink ghetto" as Jen calls it. Perhaps the best efforts belong to TAMPAX, who've taken a cue from the youner women's comfort with "down there" and lightened up the tone of the category with commercials that brought tampons front and center, like using one to stop a leak in a rowboat on a date, so that no one needs to feel weird in the drugstore aisle." (page 138, What She's Not Telling You by Mary Lou Quinlan, Jen Drexter, and Tracy Chapman).

If you want to read more about the author, visit http://www.justaskawoman.com/
and if you click on the blog tab, you can read the first chapter for free.

If you want to read more about the commercial, visit the Effie Award website www.effie.org/winners/showcase/2005/56

6.13.2009

Animal Lesson #4: 5 Elk Viewing Spots

May you enjoy animals close up, not just on tv.  If you time your visit the right place at the right time, you can hear the elk bugle, a distinctive deep sound followed by a squeal.  I was fortunate to have a trip to Estes Park during this Sept.-Oct. season and an adventurous co-worker, so we woke up early to hear the elk in the Rocky Mountain National Park. 

I took the above photo at the Yellowstone National Park.  National Geographic's 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life lists Yellowstone National Park as a must see site, "To maximize your child's wildlife spotting, Gafney suggest investing in some high-powered binoculars and heading to Haden Valley and Lamar Valley for a day devoted to animals."  My family found the most elk in the Mammoth area (North side) where they wandered among the campground lawns.  The kids favorite memories were the animals in the park.  Here's 5 more places you can take your kids to see elk:

1.  Cataloochee Valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Elk were released in 2001 and now there's 140 elk in the area.  Besides elk, visit the 9 historic buildings.  If you need a nearby cabin, contact me or check out Lightning Bug Lodge or Indigo Moon Lodge.

2.  Ponca Elk Center in Ponca, AR
Drive into the Boxley Valley near the Buffalo National River, elk were re-introduced and now there's nearly 450 elk along the river.  Visit the center for education; open 5 days a week (closed Tue/Wed); free admission.

3.  Elk Country Visitor Center in Benezette, PA
Learn at the center which opened in 2010.  Most people drive to Winslow Hill with viewing areas and off road parking.  If you want to camp near elk, try Sinnemahoning State Park which has a small herd.

4.  National Elk Refuge, near Jackson, WY
Approx. 5,000 elk in the area.  Check for events.  Elk Fest antler auction in April.  Horse drawn rides Dec.- April for $20 in 2014.

5.  Utah - Logan Canyon, Mount Nebo, Mount Timpanogos
Population exploded and has reached 63,879 elk in the state.

6.01.2009

Random Acts of Kindness - May Winner

Krenda's Random Acts of Kindness - May Winner
Everyone who donated to Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) or Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) at the Grand Am Race at Laguna race track

My co-workers and I were at the Grand Am to support MAF & CCI and this a thank you to all who donated, performing a random act of kindness.

Morris Animal Foundation is the world's largest nonprofit foundation dedicated to funding research to protect, treat, and cure animals. MAF launched an effort to cure canine cancer within the next 20 years.

Canine Companions for Independence is the largest non profit provider of assistance dogs with 3,000 volunteers nationwides. They enhance the lives of people with disabilities.

If you donated to MAF or CCI at the race and let me know the dog food booth next to the MAF & CCI and I'll send you the Krenda's Random Acts of Kindness prize.

5.31.2009

Animal Lesson #3: 7 Places with Parrots


Parrots, their feathers are more vibrant and colorful than any fabric we can make. Isn't it funny how we try to mimic nature?

Yet nature still prevails as the most interesting, the most vibrant.  Kids love the bright colors too.  Parrots tend to entertain everyone because of their ability to mimic human voices and laughter.  Teach your kids the term "zygodactyl".  It's a term that means 4 toes on each foot with 2 toes that point forward and 2 toes that point backwards.  It's also one of the features needed for a bird to be classified as a parrot.  The bird must also have a curved beak to classify as a parrot.
 
I had a parrot on my shoulder at Gumbalimba Park in Roatan, Honduras.  While wild parrots tend to live in the warm areas of the Southern Hemisphere, you don't need to travel to a foreign country to see a parrot.

Here's 7 places to spot a parrot in the United States:
1. Jungle Island, formerly called Parrot Jungle Island, Miami, Florida; $35 adult, $27 child http://www.jungleisland.com/public/explore/admission/index.cfm

2.  Animal Gardens featuring Echo the talking and singing parrot as seen on America's Got Talent, Delavan, Wisconsin; $10 adult or child, additional for Dancing Horses Show http://www.animalgardens.com/tix.htm

3. Sea World in Orlando, Florida; $71 kids, $79 adults; http://seaworldparks.com/seaworld-orlando

4.  Rolling Ridge Ranch offers wagon tours in Millersburg, Ohio; $11 kids; $16 adults; http://www.visitrollingridge.com/animal-park-african-grey-parrot.html

5.  San Diego Zoo in California (and many other zoos across the nation); $34 kids; $44 adults;
http://kids.sandiegozoo.org/

6.  Parrot Mountain and Gardens, Pigeon Forge, TN, $8 kids, $16 adults http://www.parrotmountainandgardens.com/

7.  Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, Sevierville, TN; $7 kids, $12 adult, check site for coupon at http://www.rfadventures.com/

If you are looking for a way to give back to both parrots and veterans, contact Serenity Park Parrot Sanctuary located in CA outside the VA hospital http://www.parrotcare.org/Parrots.html

Any other places you recommend where kids can see parrots?

5.17.2009

History Lesson #3: National Museum of the United States Air Force in Ohio and 6 Other Air Force Museums

Kids may see aircraft in history films or movies.  You can help bring it alive by taking them to a museum.  When you walk onto an aircraft, the kids begin asking questions about the stories behind the planes.  It's a great opportunity to discuss war, freedom, and appreciation for all who have served in the military. 

I've been to the Air Force Space & Missile Museum and National Museum of the United States Air Force.  These large museums have so many displays that you can make it a full day event.  Plus, military museums and bases provide me the chance to hear stories straight from veterans at the museum, including my Dad and Uncle. 

The National Museum of the United States Air Force serves as the world's largest military aviation museum.  It's right in the heartland, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, north or Dayton, Ohio.  With it's size and numerous programs, no wonder it attracts over 1 million visitors per year.  Plus, the free parking and admission makes it a deal you can't beat.  

With 19 acres of indoor exhibit space, you may not see the entire museum in one day.  I suggest timing your visit with one of their tours.  Each tour has a theme and takes approximately one hour 15 minutes.  Tours also offered at no cost!
1) Early Years, WWI and WWII
2) Korea and SE Asia Galleries
3) Space, Research, & Development, Global Reach and Presidential Galleries
4) Cold War Gallery

If you have additional time, consider visiting their theater.  They offer multiple shows and tickets cost approximately $10 per person.

Here's 6 other Air Force museums you can visit with your kids:

1.  Air Force Space & Missle Museum, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida (FL), outdoor rocket garden http://afspacemuseum.org/

2.  South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Ellsworth AFB, Box Elder, South Dakota, bus tour $8 adult, $5 children http://www.sdairandspacemuseum.com/btours.htm

3.  Eighth Air Force Museum, Barksdale AFB, near Bossier City, Louisiana, free admission http://8afmuseum.com/

4.  Hill Aerospace Museum, Ogden, Utah, over 90 aircraft, http://www.hill.af.mil/library/museum/index.asp

5.  Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum, decomissioned Chanute Air Force Base, Rantoul, Illinois, over 40 aircraft, day camp programs  http://www.aeromuseum.org/

6.  Strategic Air and Space Museum near Ashland, Nebraska, southwest of Omaha, check site for events  http://sasmuseum.com/

5.09.2009

NPS #2: Pearl Harbor Memorial & Military History


Pearl Harbor Memorial; Photo by Krenda
A shout out to the men and women who are serving our nation and the families who support them. Here's my disclosure - I have relatives who have served or currently serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. I may be biased to think about them and other military families often.  These photos were taken in Hawaii at Pearl Harbor.  Author Patricia Schultz lists "Oahu" as a must see site in her book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die and she recognizes the tie to history, "the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor reminds you of the city's place in 20th-century history."

My husband tells the story of his uncle in the Navy in Pearl Harbor during the attack and how he swam below burning water, splashing the water to find a place to come up and breath without flames, and his survival.

We took the opportunity to visit the location of the attack.  If you want to visit Pearl Harbor, go to Aloha Court on Oahu.  You can get free tickets to the Navy-operated shuttle boat ride and walk through exhibit galleries.  Also, you can visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater and learn more at the 23- minute documentary film.

May is Military Appreciation month and Ladies Home Journal has a few ideas to show you appreciate the troops:
- send an e-mail or letter of thanks at Amillionthanks.org
- ship a care package to a soldier through Uso.org/donate
- write an uplifting message at Americasupportsyou.mil
Also, my husband and I have found through our travels, that when you see someone in uniform or meet someone who tells you they are a veteran, it means a lot to stop to say "thank you".


4.29.2009

Agriculture Lesson #1: Tulip Time in Holland, MI & 11 More Flower Events


Oh Volksparade, the sound of wooden shoes on pavement

The costumes in a row, the friendly waves and smiles

Oh, how the tulips bloom in never ending rows
The wooden shoe factory still operates
How I want a pair, but don't need one

Why not celebrate what you grow? May you also experience the delightful Holland Michigan with it's Tulip Time Festival in May. Rated as the "Best Small Town Festival" by Reader's Digest"; 2009 marked the 80th Anniversary. 

My family also celebrated flowers by traveling to the Lilac Festival in Mackinac Island, MI.  Here's 11 other flower festivals to attend:

1. North Carolina Azalea Festival
Wilmington, NC, April, circus, garden tour with Southern Belles

2.  Azalea Festival
Muskogee, OK, April, chili cook-off and BBQ contest

3.  Azalea & Spring Flower Trail
Tyler, TX, historic home tours in the Azalea City 

4.  Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
Waimea, The Big Island Hawaii, Feb, taiko drumming, Japanese tea ceremony

5.  National Cherry Blossom Festival
Washington D.C., kimono fashion show, sushi

6.  International Cherry Blossom Festival
Macon, CA, March, "IFEA World Festival & Event" city award

7. Lilac Festival
Rochester, NY; 5K family fun run, wine and farmer's market

8.  Daffodil Festival
Tacoma & Puyallup, WA; crowns 24 daffodil princesses, watch the parade

9.  Daffodil Festival
Meriden, CT, bands, boxing, and Little Miss Daffodil

10.  Bluebonnet Festival
Chappell Hill, TX; arts and crafts and southern cooking

11.  Biltmore Festival of Flowers
Asheville, NC, April/May, it's a day trip from the Smoky Mountains, if you are looking for a cabin rental, check out our cabins Lightning Bug Lodge and Indigo Moon Lodge

4.27.2009

Animal Lesson #2: Sea Lions and More at Fort Wayne Children's Zoo in Indiana

My brother in laws closest friend is Amish. I enjoy hearing their stories and when I lived in Fort Wayne, I found it interesting to be a suburban dweller, but have Amish buggies pull up and hitch at the same grocery store. A place I loved in Fort Wayne was the Fort Wayne Children's zoo. This photo capture's two unique experiences in one.
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is much bigger than one would expect from the size of the city or the name. It's divided into four sections and I'm impressed with the thematic approach to the African Journey, Australian Adventure, and Indonesian Rain Forest.  Here's my ranking of sections with the Australian Adventure as tops:
1.  Australian Adventure - I love that the eastern grey kangaroos are in an open area instead of behind fences or bars.   They can jump right in front of your path.
2.  Indonesian Rain Forest - The tropical plants and humid atmosphere take you to a different place.  After learning in the research station, you will find more exhibits with leopards, tiger, orangutan, and gibbon.
3.  African Journey - It has a nice pathway and I always felt amused by the curious ostrich.  You can also see leopard monkey, zebras, giraffes, wildebeast, hyena, and sitatungas.
4.  Central Zoo - More traditional zoo exhibits.  My favorite animal to visit was the beautiful red panda. 

Admission is less expensive (approximately $15) than some other zoos, but expect to spend more because you'll need to purchase tockens ($1 each) for more experiences.  We visited often and these extras did make the experience more exciting for the kids.  I think we've experienced nearly all the add-ons except the Crocodile Creek Adventure Ride (slow moving automated canoe ride, likely best for younger kids) and newer additions (Stingray feeding and Sky Safari Ride).

Here's the list of ticket options:
  Z.O. &O Railroad (3 tokens)
  Endangered Species Carousel (3 tokens)
  Sky Safari Ride (3 tokens)
  Crocodile Creek Adventure Ride (3 tokens)
  Pony Trail (6 tokens) - small circular trail best for young kids
  Stingray Feeding (5 tokens)
  Giraffe Feeding (1 token)
  Goat Food (1 token)
 
To learn more about the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, visit http://www.kidszoo.org/; for a few more personal photos, visit my set "Fort Wayne zoo" at http://www.flickr.com/photos/krenda/sets/.
Wherever you live, may you be curious and open to learning about the people and places around you.

4.24.2009

History Lesson #2: Mackinac's Grand Hotel (Michigan)


Pride. It's obvious when you see it. Grand when I toured it as a kid, just as grand when I toured it as an

adult. The artwork, the geranium carpet, real geraniums blooming in boxes, so vivid in my mind.  Author Patricia Schultz lists "Mackinac's Grand Hotel" as a must see site in her book 1,000 Places To See Before You Die.  She recognizes the local pride, "The first thing ferry passengers spot as they approach Mackinac Island is the rambling white Grand hotel, perched larger than life, high atop a hill sheathed in emerald green lawns and untold thousands of blooming flowers...local authorities tout as the largest summer resort in the world (with some 380 rooms)."

As an adult, perhaps I spent a little more time noticing the artwork and decorations.  My kids noticed the gigantic porch and the numerous white painted rocking chairs, just waiting for a rocking kid.

Here's a few fun facts
385 rooms, and no two are the same
660 ft. front porch makes it the world's largest
2,500 geraniums decorate the porch in 260 planing boxes
1 million people visit Mackinac Island every year, but only 600 year round residents
Tip: The overnight stay cost may be expensive, but if you eat at one of their restaurants, your reciept works as a pass to enter the hotel. Unless you are wearing formal wear in the evening, visit before dinner.
Open since 1887. May we all take such great care of places for the next generation.

If you would like to travel back in time, take the ferry to Mackinac Island.  You will step off the ferry onto a magical place filled with horses, natural beauty, and fudge shops.  The island bans automobiles, so you enter a place where everyone walks, bikes, or takes a carriage or horse ride to the next natural or historical site.

Travel tip:  To appreciate this timeless island, watch movies filmed on Mackinac Island.  First watch the movie "Somewhere in Time".  Second watch the movie "This Time for Keeps" which features the Esther Williams swimming pool on the Grand Hotel property.
http://www.somewhereintime.tv/

For more photos, check out my flickr set "Mackinac Island, MI" http://www.flickr.com/photos/krenda/sets/

4.23.2009

Architecure Lesson #1: Loveland Castle in Ohio and 5 US Castle Tours

Loveland Castle, photo by Krenda
You don't need to travel to Europe to teach your kids about European architecture.  Take a castle tour in the US. 

We took our kids to the Loveland Castle (Chateau Laroche), located in Ohio.  It began as a project with his boy scout troop called Knights of the Golden Trail.  The visionary was Harry Delos Andrews (1890 to 1981) who became inspired after serving in WWI and afterwards touring castles.  See the website for the full story http://www.lovelandcastle.com/.  Just by touring this castle, you can show your kids three styles of architecture - German, French, and English.  Ask your tour guide about the four types of towers.  Sturdy and impressive, beautiful blooming garden; it all began with some donated land due to newspaper subscription and a dreamer.

Here's 5 other castle tours:
1.  Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC; largest private home in US, representing the Gilded Age; if you need a rental in driving range, consider our luxury cabin rentals Lightning Bug Lodge (www.lightningbuglodge.blogspot.com) or Indigo Moon Lodge (www.indigomoonlodge.blogspot.com)

2.  Oheka Castle, Long Island, NY, 2nd largest private home in the US, built in 1920s, French-style chateau; $25 adult, tour includes coffee, non-alcoholic beverage, and cookie

3.  Hearst Castle, San Simeon, CA, includes an ancient Roman temple and listed in Frommers 100 Places to Take Your Kids, part of CA State Parks, $25 adult, $12 kids

4.  Grey Towers Castle (Dupont Castle), Milford, PA, inspired by Alnwick Castle in England; $8 adult, $5 kids

5.  Lambert Castle, Paterson, NJ, Catholina Lambert built, inspired by his boyhood in England; tours Wed. to Sun. 12 to 4PM, check with Passaic County Historical Society for updates

4.22.2009

Ode to Pantene Beautiful Lengths Program

Disclaimer: I am a former Pantene Assistant Brand Manager. I love the Pantene brand.

What's cool: Pantene sponsor Beautiful Lengths, a program that donates to women's wigs with real hair to cancer patients.

I did it a couple years ago. I grew out my hair and donated approximately 10 inches. 8 inches is the minimum.

If you live in the Cincinnati area, here's your chance. This weekend, go to the Gabz The Salon, 6360 Tylersville Road, Suite G in Mason. You get free shampoo, cut and style. You'll be giving someone else a smile in a difficult time.

Giving is beautiful and it is contagious. May you feel the joy of giving.

4.19.2009

Gym Class #1: Adventure with Zip Line

Zip Line at YMCA Camp

National Geographic 100 Best Affordable Vacations lists Camp at the YMCA as a vacation idea.  The introduction brings nostalgic memories "Remember summer camp?  A typical day might include swimming, hiking, and making crafts.  Evenings were reserved for campfires and long conversations.  You can relive those idyllic days at a YMCA family camp."

I have so many fond memories of many camps including Girl Scouts, 4-H, YMCA, Science Camp, Cheerleading Camp, and Business Camp.  Hikes to bogs, learning to canoe, building campfires, making candles and other art projects, dances, and so much more to keep kids moving and exploring.  One year I served as a camp dishwasher and another year a camp counselor.  It's great leadership training for tweens and teens.  You don't necessarily need a membership to attend camps.  Check out the requirements.

For older kids, many camps provide challenge courses.  As a Scout parent, I joined other moms in encouraging girls to overcome their fears and climb to new heights.  

Some camps offer family weekends in which you can book a cabin or tent site.  One weekend, we booked cabins for ourselves and relatives at the YMCA Ohio Camp Cambell Gard.  While the weekend surrounded the kids with fun activities, the adults also liked trying the zip line.

4.17.2009

Lessons from a 2 year old

As a parent, you expect to be a teacher. If you listen, you learn lessons from the student. Here's a few lessons my 2 year old reinforces:

Be kind, be genuine
Dance your heart out when you hear music
No matter who is watching

Speak your mind, Sing out loud
Even if you are off key, your voice will be heard

Trips from the parking lot to the door equals fun
If you choose to skip

Everyday is a gift, live in the moment
Don't feel guilty about eating cake , Wear it on your face

Laugh so hard that you snort

Be generous with hugs and kisses
Smiles are contagious too
Be bold, be fearless


May you find lessons from unexpected people and places.

4.16.2009

Religion: Three Kings Day in Puerto Rico and six other places to celebrate


Puerto Rico Photo Taken by Krenda in San Juan
One of my former Procter & Gamble bosses raved about Puerto Rico.  The experts agree.  Puerto Rico ranks as the most blissed-out place in the world, followed by Mexico and Denmark, according to a study the World Values Survey Association a nonprofit group (reported in Glamour March 2005).  My boss eventually moved from to Puerto Rico and I was fortunate to visit her on the island.


Author Patricia Schultz listed Old San Juan as a must see in her book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die.  She describes the historic scene "El Viejo San Juan, the seven-square-block landmark zone of the island's capital, is a perfectly preserved microcosm of Spanish colonial architecture and a remarkable walk back through history."

Our cruise happened to dock during the Three Kings' Day or El Dia De Los Reyes celebration, mixing historical sites with colorful lights and costumes.  Christians in Latin America and Spain  mark the time when the three Kings or three Wise Men visited baby Jesus.  Families follow traditions including dinner, gifts for children, and eating King's Bread or "rosca del ray".  The circular bread represents the King's crown and the loaf is baked with a hidden "baby Jesus" figurine.  Whoever finds the toy in their slice must prepare tamales for everyone on the Day of the Candles (Feb. 2nd).  Families may leave shoes by the door or salt or a box of grass/hay and water for the Three King's camels.  Most of the hay will disappear.  The trail of hay left by the camels may lead children to gifts.

You don't need to travel to Puerto Rico to celebrate Three King's Day.  Consider attending the following celebrations:

1.  El Museo del Barrio's Three Kings Day Parade; Meeker & Graham Ave., NY, NY
Over 5,000 participate in the event; volunteers hand out crowns at the parade.  Besides puppets, the parade includes camels and shee.

2.  Brooklyn Three Kings Day Parade; Brooklyn, NY

3.  Three Kings Day Winterfest & Parade; Division & Campbell St., Chicago, IL
Hosted by The Puerto Rico Cultural Center; provides toys to first 200 registered kids age 12 and under; event includes parade and ceremony

4.  Puerto Rican Heritage Society Three Kings Day; San Antonio, TX
free art workshop for children, storytelling, traditional music

5.  Night of the Three Kings; Phoenix Zoo, Arizona
mariachi music and games, Mexican food for purchase, Three Kings arrive on camels

6.  House of Puerto Rico Three Kings Day; San Diego, CA
bring a dish to potluck, kids make a craft such as box with straw

4.15.2009

Loving Caterpillars in Ohio

Did you know that while some people claimed that the banded wolly bears caterpillars predicts whether there will be a mild or cold winter, the color actually indicates its age?
I learned this in the Oct. '08 Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

Here's an ode to the "banded woolly bears" or as Southerners call them, the "woolly worms", the caterpillar of the Isabella tiger moth.

Caterpillars, remember how you stopped & found them when you were a kid?

You'll most likely find them in the fall, but whatever the season, may you take time to notice the little creatures.

4.11.2009

Ode to College Friends

Taking a moment to celebrate relationships that last. This is a shout out to a group of 6 college friends who have kept close for over a decade.

Jewish, Budhist, Catholic, Protestant, Athiest...
Landscape Architect, Pilot, Lawyer, Physical Therapist...
Married, Single, Married with Kids, City, Suburbs...
Republican, Democrat, Independent...
Short, tall, West Coast, Mid West, Blonde, Brunette...

Yes, I am just describing a group of 6 girls, a diverse bunch

And our mutual love for life, having purpose, achieving goals, finding adventures
Being victorious over obstacles and always discovering joy
Such deep similarities are so much stronger than the obvious differences

To my "group of 6", I treasure each of you. May everyone find such a group to cherish throughout the years.

4.10.2009

Ode to The Prom Shop Project

I read about The Prom Shop Project on the internet. It's a non-profit organization in Dallas, TX that gathers gently used gowns to girls who can't afford a Prom dress, but dream of attending Prom.

Doesn't Prom make you feel like a princess...
Days of chatter with your friends
Which dress, what neclace, the date, the dinner plans
Doorbell rings with flowers in a special box
Like a glass slipper on a pillow

Smiles flash, cameras flash, paparazzi style
Strutting into the Prom as if there's a grand entrance
Strolling with your friends, like a parade of gowns
Sweatheart invites you on the floor for every slow dance

Shouldn't every girl feel like a princess? The "Cinderella was not just a fairytale" article about The Prom Shop Project inspired me. I plan to donate a gown this week because fairy tale dreams should come true. Ask me & I'll post the Prom dress photo.

4.08.2009

Ode to Impact 100

Yesterday I met a friend in downtown Cincinnati who told me about Impact 100. I could hear passion for the organization's purpose "Women together, Changing lives".

So here's a shout out to the organization that has given grants of over $1.6MM. Small gifts combine to big gifts, given to non profit organizations in the Cincinnati and Northern KY area. Check it out at www.impact100.org.

Isn't that how life is? Little things can make a big difference. In such difficult economic times, we are all in this together. And we can make a big difference.

4.07.2009

Athlete Bonnie Blair

What a way to start the day! I met inspirational Gold Medalist Bonnie Blair today.

As her agency summary states "success under pressure is the measure of a true champion"

"Bonnie began her race in the 500 meter event of the 1988 Calgary Olympics immediately after her rival Christa Rothenburger of East Germany set a world record. Not to be outdone, Bonnie proceeded to skate the 500 meters faster than any woman had before or has since, capturing the gold medal in a world record time of 39.1. This record stood for 5 years until March 1994, when at the age of 30, Blair met her ultimate goal of shattering the 39 second mark with a time of 38.99"

Isn't that the best, when you set a record and then you beat your own record?!?

4.06.2009

Art Lesson #1: Chihuly at Indianapolis Children's Museum


I've met many famous people, but never Dale Chihuly. Yet, everytime I see his art, I feel connected.  The University of Wisconsin Madison's Art Center held his first solo exhibit in 1968. It was earlier than my time, but a special school to me too as my alma mater.
Everytime I see his artwork, I feel inspired. Dale took glassblowing to a whole new level, making it a fine art, a contemporary art full of imagination and a kalediscope of color.   

You can find Chihuly's art on permanent display:
While visiting the Indianapolis Children's Museum, the largest children's museum in the world, I photographed his glass displayed in the ceiling. The kids looked up in awe at the bright colors and seashell-like shapes.

The Chihuly Garden and Glass In Seattle Center opened in 2012.  This center provides a much bigger collection of his art with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.  I was fortunate to visit at time which included local artists demonstrating glass blowing.  Visit my blog article to read about my visit and experience.

Also, look online for Chihuly's traveling art:
Cactus flowers bloomed, the sun set over the horizon, and I thoroughly enjoyed strolling past Chihuly art in sun and darkness at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona.

You may find his art at other botanical gardens or museums such as Chihuly Catalina Island Museum (Avalon, CA), New York Botanical Garden (The Bronx, NY), Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville, Arkansas).

There's so many artists creating beautiful glass art.  If you'd like to inspire your children's creativity by viewing glass art, here's 6 other museums to explore:
1.  Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art (Winter Park, FL), the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany http://morsemuseum.org/
3.  Musuem of Glass (Tacoma, WA) focusing on contemporary and Pacific Northwest glass art http://museumofglass.org/
4.  National Heisey Glass Museum, (Veterans Park, Newark, OH)
http://heiseymuseum.org/
5.  The New Bedford Museum of Glass (New Bedford, Massachusetts) opened 2010 in former textile building  http://www.nbmog.org/
6.  Toledo Museum of Art including The Glass Pavilion, (Toledo, OH) The Glass Pavilion with curved glass walls and a Dale Chihuly sculpture opened in 2006 http://www.toledomuseum.org/glass-pavilion/
7.  Corning Museum of Art, (Corning, NY) Finger Lake area, $15 adult, free for kids
http://www.cmog.org/visit/hours-and-admission

4.01.2009

Leadership & Math Idea

Leadership
It often feels like a math equation to me

Subtract the fear
Add the change
Multiply the positive results

That's all I have for today folks.

3.29.2009

Have you tried cheese curds? A Wisconsin classic.



These are cattle for beef, not dairy.  No, this wasn't another photo from Wisconsin.  I took the photo near Kansas City on my Dad's farm. However, it reminded me of growing up in Wisconsin and having great pride in living in the dairy state and buying cheese at local shops.

I try to support local businesses, in my case the Midwest.  It's been a few years since I lived in Wisconsin, but I still look for the "made in Wisconsin label".   This week I shopped at Meijer (another Midwest company, headquartered in Michigan) and bought Maple Leaf cheese ("handcrafted with pride since 1910" from Monroe, Wisconsin).

In Wisconsin, there's aisles and aisles of cheese, so many varieties.  A favorite treat was cheese curds.  Have you tried them?  What's your favorite cheese.

I found the inside of the label interesting because it gave a history of the cheese curds, so I thought I'd share "Long ago, a lone man saddled up his camel for an ominous trek across a Middle East desert.  For nourishment, he also poured an abundance of milk into his saddlebag.  To his astonishment, when he opened his bag for a drink, he found white curds and liquid.  What a monumental discovery!  How do you explain this metamorphosis?  The science behind the curdling of the milk lies within this adventurer's saddlebag.  this saddlebag was made from the stomach of the goat."

What foods are famous in your state?

3.27.2009

4-H Leadership

Leadership, the traits may feel natural, but it never hurts to practice early and often

As a Brand Manager, parents often ask me how they can help their children prepare for leadership. Of course school and sport leadership positions are great, but I am also thankful for my experience in 4-H. The 4-H pledge =

Head (think clear)
Heart (be loyal)
Hands (give service)
Health (live healthy lifestyle)

It's a national club for boys and girls age 8 to 18. There's a local, county, state, and national level and many choices in projects. For example, over 10 years I learned and demonstrated in photography, stencil painting, creative stitchery, drawing and painting, cooking, gardening, recycling, child development, and more.
Others showed animals, wood working, etc.

Every year you set and write your own goals, you learn, show results at the fair, get judged, teach others through demonstrations, record results, and get rewarded if you have above average results. Senior members are expected to coach younger members. Senior members get elected or chosen for leadership positions based upon past performance. Business friends, is this process sounding familiar???

Ask me about being a camp counselor, the "I Dare You Award", and the leadership conference at the White House/National Congress. And for your kids, check out the 4-H club near you.

3.25.2009

Animal Lesson #1: 7 Whale Watching Tours

Ohana, it means family in the Hawaiian language. I visited Hawaii to see family and more – waterfalls, rainbows, whales, canyons, volcanic rock, canyons and mountains, and more fish than I can count.  This is a photo taken from our cruise ship touring from one Hawaiian island to another.  We also enjoyed seeing whales from a cruise deck in Glacier Bay, Alaska.  We were the first set of cruise ships in the season, early June.  Tourists see whales through August.

You don't need to fly to an island or take a large cruise ship to show your kids whales.  Here's seven options in descending order from most expensive to least:

1.   Kodiak Island, Alaska, gray whales in April, humpback whales in June to Nov.
Kodiak Adventures Unlimited requires minimum number of passengers and $180 each (approx. $720 for family of four) for 3 hour tour or $240 for 5 hours; at this price, consider a major cruise.  We sailed on Holland America and loved watching for marine animals for seven days.

2.  San Juan Islands, Washington, orcas (killer whales & technically dolphins)
San Juan Safaris in Harbor, WA, - family of 4 approx. $262: $79 adult, $52 children, April to Oct.

3.  Long Island, NY, fin, humpback, minke, sperm, blue and sei whales, July through Labor Day
American Princess Cruises (Rockaway Queens NY), Riis Landing only on specific dates; $48 adult and $33 child - family of 4 approx. $162

4.  Santa Barbara, CA, gray whales and 26 other types of whales and dolphins, Feb. to April
Condor Express early spring coast cruise for 2.5 hours - family of 4 approx. $160; $50 adult, $30 children, more expensive longer cruises (4.5 hours) in fall and winter for $99

5.  Provincetown, Massachusetts, critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, March to Oct.
Captain John Boats (Provincetown) includes marine biologist giving talks on 4 hour tour; $47 adult, $31 child - family of four approx. $156

6.   Cape May, NJ, humpback and finback in March
Cape May Whale Watcher (Cape May, NY); 2.5 hour whale and dolphin watch $35 adult and $25 child includes comp continental breakfast - family of 4 approx. $120; 3 hour tour with no food $40 adult

7.  Virginia, VA, fin whales during winter
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center; aquarium experts share research and conservation stories while watching for whales on the Atlantic Explorer; 2-2.5 hour trip $28 adult and $24 child - family of 4 approx. $104

3.24.2009

State Park #2: Hocking Hills State Park, Logan Ohio - geology lessons


Get out of the house and go explore and you will see majestic cliffs, waterfalls, gorges, and more. Especially if you drive to Hocking Hills State Park. I've been to a lot of State Parks, but none like this one in Ohio.  While hiking, you have time to discuss geological processes.  Gorges are mainly formed because of the flow of water or lava.  Smaller than canyons, gorges still have deep, narrow valleys with a river or stream running.  Even easier than creating your own science lesson, check out the park schedule for educational talks hosted by naturalists. 

Besides admiring the rocks, go on a hunt for waterfalls.  This photo shows Cedar Falls, the largest in terms of water volume.  From the photo, it's difficult to tell size.  It spans 50 feet with water cascading between limestone and ending in a pool.  I'd also recommend the waterfall at Ash Cave.  You'll be impressed with the size of the 700-foot long cave.

Gorges make beautiful scenery for a hike with your family.  Two of the top three parks winning the USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice Award Best State Park rating have well known gorges:

1) Letchworth State Park (Castile, New York) rated #1:  includes Genesee River Gorge, sometimes referred as "Grand Canyon of the East"
2) Watkins Glen State Park (New York) rated #3:  includes Gorges of Finger Lakes, 200 foot cliffs, 19 waterfalls, part of the Finger Lake State Parks

Readers rated Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan as the #2 state park.

Here's 9 Other gorges you could visit with your family:
1.  Quechee Gorge, Vermont: (Quechee State Park):  deepest gorge in Vermont, view from US Route 4 bridge
2.  Bluestone River Gorge, West Virginia: canyon land around the Bluestone National Scenic River and protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (est. 1988)
3.  Rio Grande Gorge, New Mexico: approx. 50 mile gorge beginning near the Colorado border, part of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument (designated 2013)
4.  Avalance Gorge, Avalanche Cree, Montana:  narrow chasms near the falls within Glacier National Park
5.  Linville Gorge, North Carolina: part of the Pisgah National Forest and sourced by Linville River, also claims "Grand Canyon of the East"
6.  Bad River Gorge, Wisconsin (Copper Falls State Park): walls can tower up to 100 feet above the river bed, watch for flash floods
7.  Cathedral Gorge, Nevada near Panaca, Nevada: (Cathedral Gorge State Park) established 1935, early construction included picnicking facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps
8.  Malad Gorge, Idaho; (Malad Gorge State Park):  narrow steel walk way across the gorge
9.  Columbia Gorge, Oregon Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area: managed by the Columbia River Gorge Commission and the US Forest Service, 80 mile canyon up to 4,000 feet deep and spans Oregon and Washington