Inspiration Swap

Enjoy the journey & other lessons learned

2011-03-22T22:51:00.002-04:00

Here's a life story about life being a journey and enjoying every step of the way, seeing the possibility, and learning every day.

When I tell people, Iowa, that's where I was born

They tease me about endless flat land and corn

That's where I grew values and how to work hard

Pride in farmers and Americans, things you can't learn from a card

Relatives warned don't go north to Appleton where it's cold

Women wear flannels and hunt deer, young and old

I learned to follow my own dreams with the precision of a bow

Have courage and strength and cheer on my teams, go, go, go!

Elders shook their head about moving to the capitol, Mad Town

Be careful they exclaimed, you could become a politician or clown

That's where I led communities and debate ideas with zeal

The government, the university, all part of the appeal

Friends rolled their eyes, friends don't let friends go to Fort Wyane

Not enough parties or people, you'll have to escape by plane

I only needed to find one person, the love of my life

I loved responsibility, a career, and throwing parties as a wife

Those settled questioned, why Bloomington, a town so small?

Why risk your paycheck and take a chance that you'll fall?

Big ideas from Asia, Africa, Europe, and many states

We triumphed in case studies, internships, a big success at any rate

Classmates pointed out Cincinnati isn't close to a beach
So serious, so focused on industry, life won't be a peach

I learned to turn around businesses in need

With little ones we grew fruit trees, gardens, and good deeds

Collegues warned don't leave for Evansville, a smaller river port

Watch out for cowboys and the religious sort

That's where I feel most comfortable to kick up my boots

And sing praises so loud, a place where kids can grow roots

Neighbors ask why buy property in the mountains, so close to the sky

You could get attacked by a bear, you can't even fly

That's where I appreciate nature so majestic and free

I embrace the danger, the adventure, and all that I can be

Shoot for the stars and don't let anyone hold you back. Experience new places and cultures, you'll never stop learning. And whenever you hear negative stereotypes, search for the positive instead.

Ode to Ohio River

2010-10-10T07:19:00.004-04:00

"The Ohio is the most beautiful river on earth. It's current gentle, waters clear, and bosom smooth and unbroken by rocks and rapids, a single instance only expected." Thomas Jefferson.

Like the Ohio, I am connected to the Mississippi

Born near the Mississippi, living and working near the Ohio, I travel back to the Mississippi

The Ohio River is the largest tributary, by volume, to the Mississippi

Like the Ohio, I believe in freedom

Like the narrow river enabling escape from South to North, from slavery to freedom

Like the Ohio, I live to travel and connect

The river connects communities, I connect people and stories

And whether I'm watching the barges from upon a hill in Cincinnati as I've photographed

Or watching the sun rise and sun set from an Evansville office window

I appreciate the Ohio River, it's beauty, it's peace, and it's ability to change

What beauty do you see in the river?

Hotel or Cabin in the Smokies? My choice for a multi generation gathering.

2010-08-24T07:01:00.000-04:00

I've been to thousands of hotels, but when it came to planning our first trip to the Smoky Mountains, I decided to rent a cabin. Why? The purpose of the trip was to spend time with extended family and enjoy nature. I imagined two scenarios. Scenario One: Six families relaxing in a cabin, eating together, having fun together whether hopping in the hottub or playing pool or foosball, enjoying nature together. Scenario Two: Six separate rooms in a hotel with each of us running from room to room in the hallways trying to find out whether each group was ready or worse, trying to all stand like sardines in one room. And then searching for each other in the parking lot.
I'm glad I chose scenario one. We celebrated my mother and father-in-law's 50th wedding anniversary and had great memories of the sun setting over the mountains. Can you imagine that this photo was taken right off our deck? What a view! I was so inspired by the pristine scenery, I can't wait to return.
We fell in love with the Smoky Mountains so much that the second time we visited, we bought a cabin and we rent it out so more families can create memories. For photos of this cabin, click on the link to Lightning Bug Lodge.

Blenko Glass Inspiration in WV

2010-07-02T18:43:00.002-04:00

Glass is beautiful to me, especially in an art form like a vase or stained glass window. William J. Benko is also inspirational to me since he took a risk, moving from Europe to the United States to begin the first US glasshouse that could supply mouth blown (Antique) sheet glass for stained glass windows. He began his company in 1893 in Kokomo, IN.

I became interested in the Blenko Glass company after watching a PBS show about it and then took a road trip to tour the production in West Virginia. You can watch the glassblowing in action and purchase vases and bowls onsite.

If you visit Aug 6 -7 2010, you can do more than tour, you can take classes at the "Blenko Festival of Glass". Check out www.blenkoglass.com for classes. Besides glass blowing, there's less expensive art classes like paperweight class or stepping stone mosaic. Have you learned to create art with glass and if yes, what or who inspired you?

Loving Rhinos in Cumberland, Ohio!

2010-05-01T19:05:00.002-04:00

Thanks to everyone who took the "where did Krenda take this photo?" quiz. The majority of you were correct, the answer is Ohio.

Leaders see beyond the stereotypes they hear

Who would think that the largest conservation parks with endangered animals is located in Ohio? Once again, don't listen to the sterotypes of Ohio as just factories & farms.

The Wilds mission is "advancing conservation through science, education, and personal experience". It's a 9,000 plus acre conservation park that opened to the public in 1994. What a thrill to be so close to these majestic animals.

There are 27 species of rare or endangered animals living in a 14 square mile area of reclaimed mining land. This is a family friendly place you can teach your children about conservation. We went with 3 toddlers and they loved the safari tour.

Tip: Bring your hiking shoes! Even though it's a bus tour, the tour gives you time to walk to ponds or throughout the Carnivore Conservation Center (opened in 2007 with cheetahs and African wild dogs). You'll see unique animals and wildflowers, so get off the bus.

I hope you can experience it too. Season opens May 2nd. Camps available June-August.
Learn more at http://www.thewilds.org/. For a few more photos, go to my personal collection "The Wilds" at http://www.flickr.com/photos/krenda/sets/.

Inspired by Caves in Ohio

2010-04-20T23:26:00.000-04:00

Ohio Caverns

If you want to see a seemingly endless amount of cave formations, go to Ohio Caverns. It's the largest cave in Ohio.

The stalagmites and stalactites are in so many shapes, sizes, and locations.

One shaped like a water pump. (if you don't know what I'm talking about, ask a farm kid)

In front of you, above you. Watch you head. Watch your hands. Just enjoy the magic.

Fun Fact

Family owned, passed down from one generation to the next
Learn more at http://www.ohiocaverns.com/ or visit the caves, just 2 hours North of Cincinnati

Tips

You will feel like you are driving out in no where and perhaps no one else is visiting, is it even open? Very cute entrance sign "yes, we are open". Apparently the owners can hear us thinking. Bring a picnic basket, there's a picnic shelter on site.
May you find a path that leads you to intrique & magic around every corner.

Women Inspiring Women, Read all about It

2009-11-11T21:00:00.001-05:00

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

Boy Scout Popcorn Story #2

2009-10-04T19:30:00.000-04:00

This is a second sharing of Boy Scout stories, taken from the Boy Scout fund raising popcorn box "Trail's End"

Boy Scout Story #2 Troop 167, Arlington, VA

Twenty-eight Boy Scouts from Troop 167 in Arlington, Virginia traveled to the village of Vuelta Grande near Antigua, Guatemala where they painted classroom walls, built a house, and worked to solve an erosion problem. According to Will, who initiated the effort as his Eagle Scout project, "We're trying to demonstrate the value of working together and the things that it can accomplish, so that hopefully they'll see what can be done, and follow our example...helping at the school, volunteering and things like that."

You can support the Boy Scouts year 'round by making popcorn purchases at http://www.trails-end.com/. And if you don't eat popcorn, there's a program to donate your purchase to the military.

Boy Scout Popcorn Story #1

2009-10-03T19:16:00.001-04:00

The Boy Scout organization inspires me because it teaches boys leadership, citizenship, and outdoor skills. I am a Merit Badge Counselor and my husband is an Eagle Scout and we support the annual popcorn fund raiser.

I found the stories on the back of the popcorn box inspiring, so I'm sharing with you:

Story #1: Michael's Great Adventure, Oklahoma City, OK

Michael was given $100 by his pastor and told to "Go do and do good with it." He decided to raise money to buy uniforms for 25 Scouts who couldn't afford them. He started the project with help from his family and Club Scout Pack. He sent out letters asking for donations. Michael said, "Now we have more than $7,000. We will be supplying uniforms to many boys." "Michael has a spirit that's just unreal and he represents what Scouting is all about," said one of the adults who worked with him.

You can help support scouting year 'round through making popcorn/snack purchases at http://www.trails-end.com/

Inspired by mountains & water

2009-06-15T19:28:00.002-04:00

Leeks Marina, Jackson Lake, Grand Teton NP

Loving Bison

2009-06-14T15:29:00.004-04:00

Loved how the bison "owned" the park, roaming freely where they wanted.

If they felt like crossing the road, believe me, you waited. Their size and power and prehistoric look makes you sit back, wait, and enjoy watching.

May you have a chance to watch rare animals in Yellowstone National Park or any other park.

Loving Elk in Wyoming

2009-06-13T15:24:00.002-04:00

Love the peaceful nature of the elk.

In Yellowstone National Park, where animals are protected, they showed no fear. I was so close to this elk, I could have pet the animal.

They seem especially close to people in the Mammoth area (North side) where they wandered among the campground lawns.

May you enjoy animals close up, not just on tv.

Loving Cats in the Midwest

2009-06-04T23:37:00.001-04:00

Dusty cat, she's a special cat to me. I found her in the wild. We lived in the country, near the woods that led to the limestome quaries used for the Empire State building. Someone must have dumped her off, so very young. It took time to gain her trust, of course feeding her helped.

Transformed from skinny to strong.

She follows my father in law like a dog, but she's still wild at heart.

I love her attitude, her independence, her loyalty.

If you treat her well, she remembers. If you tease her, she will hiss next time.

Did I mention she's smart...independent, loyal, strong. Like many women I know.

May you rescue an animal and see her grow.

Random Acts of Kindness - May Winner

2009-06-01T16:00:00.000-04:00

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.

Loving Fish in Ohio

2009-05-29T00:14:00.000-04:00

Loving fish? Yes, so graceful, you can get hypnotised watching them swim back and forth.

Tips

Check out the pond at Voice of America Park in West Chester Ohio, it was easy to get the fish out and back into the water to my son's gleeful delight

Also visit the park for concerts, my favorite the symphony with fireworks

You can rent paddleboats

Admire the cattails

Feed the ducks

If you have the guts, slide down the giant hill

It's nearby business. Bring your sunscreen, not heavily forested.

May all your fishing trips be so easy.

Wedding Reception Poems to Inspire Kisses

2009-05-25T06:03:00.001-04:00

Are you seeking a way to inspire your friends and family to engage at your wedding? Growing up in the North and attending numerous German heritage weddings, I have fond memories of clincking glasses to get the bride and groom to kiss and polka dancing. However, I wanted to challenge my guest even more during the dinner reception, so I wrote poem and printed a challenge paper for each table. Everyone had a blast and attendees asked me to share:

(Bride's name) and (Groom's name) are in wedding bliss
Yet clincking glasses won't cause them to kiss
Instead complete a task they can't miss

Greet those at your table, for they are your new team
Perform the following as you smile and gleam

(insert task, see examples below)

Don't be bashful, don't hide behind the bar
Laugh and have fun, you'll shine like a star

Table #1 Task
Create a new cheer about love and shout it out
You all have lots of energy, there's no doubt

Table #2 Task
Write a romantic love poem, read it aloud
You're so creative and charming, you'll be proud

Table #3 Task
Act out "I'm a Little Tea Pot"
No need to sing, just hum a lot
Your team's show will be Hot! Hot! Hot!

Table #4
Do the Chinese Fire Drill around your table
Move quickly, go twice, we know you are able

Table #5
Try to whistle or make a bird call
Flap your arms and stand up tall
Don't worry, we won't let you fall

Table #6
Begin the wave, move your arms with grace
Fast or slow, you win at any pace

Table #7
Include the word "love" while you sing a song
We'll love you even if you hit a note wrong

Table #8
Touch head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes
Please repeat three times, show us how it goes

Table #9
Stand up and pretend you're an eight piece band
No bow? No stick? No pick? We'll understand

For table mates meeting each other for the first time, it was a fun ice breaker. I was impressed with my friends & family's enthusiasm and creativity. They were laughing so hard and when we watch the video, it makes us smile all over again. Feel free to use the idea, just write a comment after the wedding reception to let me know whether your guests enjoyed it.

Conservationist Jane Goodall

2009-05-23T23:57:00.003-04:00

I saw Jane Goodall speak at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. I grew up admiring her. Seeing her in movies. Reading her stories.

Wow! What an inspiration to see her live. Jane presented slides from her chimpanzee research in Tanzania. To hear her tell the stories, to hear the passion in her voice about the next generation. She encouraged the audience to get involved in Roots & Shoots, a global youth organization that gets youth involved in service learning projects that promote care and concern for animals, the environment, and the human community.

After I saw her in person, I visited a museum with a special exhibit all about her life. Very nicely done, but nothing beats in person.

Check out Roots & Shoots website for event. June 5th is World Environment Day. June 6th is National Trails Day.

I'll share more, send me a note. How are you connected to Jane? May we all be connected to learn and conserve.

National Park - Mammoth Cave

2009-05-19T22:29:00.001-04:00

Mammoth Cave National Park

Yes, it's mammoth with over 365 miles mapped. Took the tour as a child and as an adult and enjoyed it.

Cave Springs Cavern

However, I found it even more interesting to take a private tour of a nearby cave in Smith Grove, Kentucky called Cave Springs Cavern, I had heard about it on public tv.

Fun Facts

Used by Native Americans as a rare ceremonial site

"the family" radio carbon dated 30 BC

Tips

Book the bed & breakfast stay, tour no charge. If choice, choose the older log cabin, nicer than the new cabin.

Less touched by humans, more mysterious. And at night, watching bats circle under the moon light, mysterious. May you find a place off the beaten path.

Cave Inspiration in Indiana

2009-05-18T23:18:00.001-04:00

Blue Springs Cavern

I'd share a photo, but we were mostly in the dark.

Tour guides take you on a custom boat across Mystery River, inside a cave.

Fun Facts
See the rare blind fish and crayfish
"See" total darkness when the guide turns off all lights

Tips
Don't expect a lot of formations like stalagmites, stalactites, etc. But expect a cool adventure. Also, if you are like my friends thinking they can get away kissing in total darkness, think again, we caught you when the lights went back on.
May you experience darkness to appreciate light.

Donate - Stamp Out Hunger Tomorrow

2009-05-08T20:49:00.005-04:00

It's the Stamp Out Hunger campaign time (specifically tomorrow, Saturday morning).

I did it last year & preparing now for tomorrow's donation.

It's a really easy way to donate. The United States Post Office provides pick up, all you need to do is get your canned food from your kitchen to your mailbox. The mail carriers collect all the donations.

Loving worms in Ohio

2009-05-04T22:55:00.003-04:00

Loving cows? Now loving worm? What!

Let me explain. They help gardens. They make fishing more productive. Oh, I just admire their peaceful nature.

Do I love picking them up? No, but fearless kids do. May we all be so fascinated and fearless.

Festival Fun - Derby Day

2009-05-02T08:19:00.004-04:00

It's Derby Day.

While you may not be able to attend the famous Kentucky event, have fun and wear a big hat. One that makes you feel special.

Winner of Random Acts Contest - April

2009-05-01T07:35:00.001-04:00

The winner story - nice couple in Ohio

I put out old furniture & placed a "free" sign on it
You know how kids can be attached to everything familiar, so it's difficult
A nice couple came to pick it up
They must have sensed my son's feelings
Even though the sign clearly said "free", they gave him $1, a random act of kindness
He was overjoyed and deposited those quarters into the PetSmart Homeless charity box

One random act of kindness leads to another, even when a 5 year old is involved in the chain

From this story, you can see that no one wrote down their name & address. Hint, hint. The odds of winning are really high. You could win 3 used DVDs in May!

Loving My Bee in Ohio

2009-04-30T21:35:00.001-04:00

So I just couldn't wait until he was a dating teenager to share the costume photos.

Bee, lady bug, bear..I just couldn't resist.

May you find joy in even the silly things.

Festival Fun - Tulip Time in Holland, MI

2009-04-29T21:56:00.003-04:00

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.

Loving Seals in Indiana

2009-04-27T18:43:00.002-04:00

My brother in laws closest friend is Amish. I enjoy hearing their stories and when I lived in Fort Wayne, I found it intreresting 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. So this photo capture's two unique experiences in one.

The Fort Wayne zoo is much bigger than one would expect from the size of the city or the name. I always enjoy the entertainment of the seals at any zoo, but if you go, don't miss the Australian area. I love that the kangaroos are in open area instead of behind fences/bars, so they can just jump right in front of your path.

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.

Athlete Robbie Knievel

2009-04-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

Leaders set goals, achieve them, set higher goals, it never stops.

Robbie's truck says leaving a legend with a photo of his father Robert Craig "Evel" Knievel and his photo.

We watched him break the record, jumping more semis, breaking his own father's record that was set at the same exact place many years ago.

We all can build a legend, even if it is a little less public.

Cattail Inspiration in Ohio

2009-04-25T07:18:00.005-04:00

Cattail

The weather is getting warmer and as we all get spring fever, take a moment and notice the new plants and animals growing. It reminds you to celebrate birth and life.

Hotel & Flag Inspiration in Michigan

2009-04-24T21:12:00.005-04:00

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.

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. It's a magical place that is filled with horses, natural beauty, and fudge shops.

Travel tip: To appreciate this timeless island, watch the movie "Somewhere in Time" before you visit
http://www.somewhereintime.tv/

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

Castle Inspiration in Ohio

2009-04-23T09:21:00.002-04:00

A castle in Ohio?

Yes, another unexpected site.

Perhaps not as grand in scale as some of the castles I've seen in Europe. However, the Loveland Castle tour gives you a grand story about the builders who never gave up.

May we all build our dreams.

Ode to Pantene Beautiful Lengths Program

2009-04-22T22:51:00.002-04:00

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.

Loving Fish in Kentucky

2009-04-21T07:11:00.003-04:00

The Newport Aquarium is a place of magic.

The variety in sizes and colors is amazing. And who wouldn't be mesmirized with sharks swimming above your head in the glass tunnel?

A bit steep ticket price for one day entrance, but if you live in the area, I'd recommend the annual pass. Also, consider it for a business event. I attended a training at the Newport Aquarium and having a penguin as the surprise lunch guest certainly makes a joyful impression.

For more information visit the Newport Aquarium website http://www.newportaquarium.com/; for a couple more personal photos visit "Newport, KY" set at http://www.flickr.com/photos/krenda/sets/.
Go ahead, take a day off from a land perspective and go under the spell of the underwater world.

Castle Inspiration in Canada

2009-04-20T08:41:00.004-04:00

Casa Loma in Toronto, Canada

Why not dream big? And dream big early.

Sir Henry left his studies at age 17 to pursue business. He founded the Toronto Electric Light Company in 1883. Acted as chairman of 21 countries by 1901.

Fun Facts:

$3.5 million and 3 years to build

5 acre estate garden

8 language choices available in the self guided audio tour

Tips:

Ticket price is high, but if you plan to see many sites in Toronto The Toronto City Pass gives you a break. It includes 1) Casa Loma, 2) Royal Ontario Museum, 3) CN Tower, 4) Ontario Science Centre, and 5) Toronto Zoo.

Ambition. Risk. Later in life his finances were ruined and he lost the castle, but his dream castle stands and his story lives. So dream big, your vision may live on.

Adventure with Zip Line

2009-04-19T09:15:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the YMCA Ohio Camp Cambell Gard counselors who gave my family opportunity to zip line.

So proud of my family members who showed no fear.

May you all take risks. Life is short.

Waterfall Inspiration in New York

2009-04-18T08:34:00.002-04:00

Niagara Falls

There's something special about the sound of falling water. And at Niagara Falls, it sounds like power and strength.
Facts: It's listed as one of the 501 Must-Visit Natural Wonders because it's the best known falls. The book comments on the sound too, "The local tribespeople call the falls 'onguiaahra', a 'thundering noise', which may seem like an understatement when you are faced with the sheer noice of almost 185,000 cubic m (6,600,000 cubic ft) of water roaring into the gorge every minute.

A rainbow, it's like that reminder that disappointing elements can create beauty. You may not like the rain while traveling, but then you see the rainbow and thank the rain.

Lessons from a 2 year old

2009-04-17T00:14:00.003-04:00

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.

Sunset inspiration in Puerto Rico

2009-04-16T08:09:00.005-04:00

Puerto Rico
It's sugar and spice and everything nice
The passion, energy, the latin beat
The romance language
Slow strolls along the waterfront
Historical forts, modern buildings
No wonder why 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).
Photo taken by Krenda in San Juan

Loving Caterpillars in Ohio

2009-04-15T21:53:00.003-04:00

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.

Sunset Inspiration on the Ocean

2009-04-14T21:24:00.002-04:00

Sunrise, Sunset

Both are magical

One signals a beginning
Dreams, possibilities, a whole day ahead of you

The other takes your breath away

Slow down, take a moment to reflect
Accomplishments are noted

What really mattered is what you chose to do with your time between the sunrise and sunset

Ode to Military Families

2009-04-13T23:58:00.000-04:00

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 often.

No matter view on war or political party, don't we all admire those who are willing to make sacrifices. To put their life at risk for a cause. To serve our country with pride.

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".

Loving Parrots in the Islands

2009-04-12T21:39:00.000-04:00

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

Ode to College Friends

2009-04-11T23:36:00.004-04:00

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.

Ode to The Prom Shop Project

2009-04-10T23:16:00.003-04:00

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.

Ode to Impact 100

2009-04-08T10:11:00.000-04:00

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.

Athlete Bonnie Blair

2009-04-07T17:30:00.004-04:00

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?!?

Artist Dale Chihuly

2009-04-06T07:14:00.007-04:00

I've met many famous people, but never Dale Chihuly. Yet, everytime I see his art, I feel connected. His first solo exhibit was at the University of Wisconsin Madison's Art Center in 1968, earlier than my time, but a special school to me too.

Everytime I see his artwork, I feel inspired. He took glassblowing to a whole new level, making it a fine art, a contemporary art full of imagination and a kalediscope of color. Each individual piece shows talent, together it is breathtaking. Isn't that how well functioning teams feel?

Kite Inspiration in Ohio

2009-04-04T07:05:00.006-04:00

It's the kite festival this weekend at West Chester, OH Voice of America park. Here's photos from last year.

May you also be inspired by the sport, the drama, the bright colors.

Longaberger Inspiration in Ohio

2009-04-03T18:56:00.002-04:00

Leadership takes vision and sticking to it.

Longaberger, still hand crafted in the United States. Beauty and pride in craftsmanship and service, Longaberger now employs the largest team of artisans in the nation. As we toured the office, we learned about the leadership team insisting the building be shaped like a basket, even when architects said it wasn't possible. It was possible. To see a photo of the office, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/krenda/

The museum is an great learning experience for a marketer. The museum sign said "our baskets are a reflection of grace, simplicity, and function". Describe your brand personality in three words. If you are a brand, how would you want other to think of you (3 words max.)?

The museum and tour was a great learning experience for my four year old. The employees allowed my son to help make a basket. They even allowed my son to sign his name on the basket bottom, a basket that will be sold to some lucky family. The employee was so enthusiastic about my son's basketweaving skills that my son decided that besides being the President someday, he'd like to be a Longaberger Weaver. How will you inspire a kid today in a way that may change their future?

Leadership & Math Idea

2009-04-01T10:42:00.003-04:00

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.

The Gravel Roads of Iowa

2009-03-31T09:21:00.006-04:00

This is a favorite photo of my Grandfather.

Clink, Clink, Clinkity, Clink
Gravel beats itself upon the steel
Dust envelpes the car
Dents, car wash, parents worry

I listen and smile with glee
For we are riding the gravel roads of Iowa
The ones that lead to simplicity

To grandma's farm with wide open space
Driveway lined with apple trees, homemade pies in the oven
Where it's quiet, except for the baaas of lambs,
Laughter of kids on teeter toters and a swing hung from the tree

The suburbs, they creep ever closer
May they also cherish and hear the gravel roads of Iowa

May you also have a place that leads you back to simplicity.

Loving Fish in Japan

2009-03-30T14:34:00.005-04:00

I don't like sushi, but my co-workers do. So I suggested we go to the fish market at 4:30AM.

Ask me for the full story.

Have you tried cheese curds? A Wisconsin classic.

2009-03-29T10:07:00.006-04:00

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?

Castle Inspiration in Windsor, England

2009-03-28T10:07:00.008-04:00

Leaders respect tradition and take risks to try new things

In Windsor, the castle tour taught me British monarchy history

Plus it was a chance to see the Queen Mary's doll house once again

I had seen it in the Chicago museum over a decade ago

Remembering every detail down to the chandelier and marble floor

Even more inspiring

moving from stones built in the past to stones built for future generations

Visiting my cousins, who started their own new business

And from their success, build upon what I would classify as a palace

complete with a greenhouse and English garden

And magazine cover views in the quaint countryside

I've been to England before and visited the typical sites, the theater, and more in London. It's a lot of fun, but take time to get inspired by the history in a smaller city too such as Windsor or Bath.

4-H Leadership

2009-03-27T21:49:00.004-04:00

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.

Sand Inspiration at Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI

2009-03-26T20:09:00.005-04:00

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Cruising Inspiration in Hawaii

2009-03-25T23:43:00.004-04:00

Leaders respect tradition and take risks to try new things

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.

Hula dancing, it’s a beautiful tradition, I’ve seen it before
On this family run boat ride to the fern grotto

The musician recounted how he played a conch shell
For Elvis in Blue Hawaii
The story sounds familiar
I must have met him over a decade ago

Determined to try something new, I signed up for surf lessons
The rush of standing up on the board, on the first try
Controlling my moves, but knowing with nature that I’m…
Ultimately out of control, a rush I can’t describe in words
On top of the world, yet ready to fall

May you have the time to fly out to the islands and experience the tropical traditions and beauty. All photos taken and owned by Krenda.

Lakefront Inspiration in Madison, WI

2009-03-24T19:10:00.006-04:00

Memorial Union,

it's referred to as "the hear and soul" of the University of Wisconsin. It's famous for it's brightly painted sunburst chairs. They were there when I was in high school visiting, in college studying, and still there now.

Located on the shores of Lake Mendota, it was the perfect backdrop for my memories of

romantic walks, feeding ducks under the moonlight

feeling light as a feather, ballroom dancing across wooden floors

accepting a serious business award in the same ballroom

celebrating with the crew after performing at Union Theater

scheming plans to splash through the water fountain

soaring across the water in a sailboat with my newest friends

listening to concerts or Pat McCurdy, the comedian

smelling brats and beers from Der Rathskeller

laughing with old friends, soaking up the sun

So true to it's purpose, the Union touched my heart and soul. May you have a place of magic too.

Hiking Inspiration in Hocking Hills, Ohio

2009-03-24T07:08:00.002-04:00

Leaders see beyond the stereotypes they hear

What's the sterotypes of Ohio? Tough industrial cities or unending flat farmland?

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 and it's in Ohio!

One crisp evening, standing outside our cabin
Toasty next to the flames, warm sticky chocolate dripping

Finished a full day of hiking into delightful surprises
Muscles remembering climbing up gigantic rocks
The next step could be a new view

A waterfall, a cave, an unexpected stream
Little pebbles thrown into the waterfall basin
By itty bitty hands of my son beaming with joy
A giant playground with no need for a plastic slide

If you go, check out the 700 ft. Ash Cave, 50 ft. Cedar Falls, and Old Man's Cave. May the unexpected dramatic natural beauty inspire you too.

Steamboat Inspiration in Cincinnati, Ohio

2009-03-23T22:51:00.000-04:00

Leaders are inspired by history in order to shape the future

One of the ways Cincinnati inspires me is its history, especially on the waterfront I feel connected to bustling years of commerce and drama.

Once every three to four years, Cincinnati celebrates the steamboating era with a festival named “Tall Stacks Festival”. Over half a million people visit and more than a dozen steamboats visit the Cincinnati port.

Down the hill and towards the crowd, whistles scream my name
The excitement builds inside like the steam ready to blow
Wearing ordinary clothes
My eyes feast upon Civil War gowns and suits
The steamboats are lit up, enticing me to come onboard
Just a ticket to whisk me away from the hustle and bustle

Bright lights of the city and ball parks grow smaller and smaller
Transformed into twinkles, reflected upon the dark, deep water
The plays, the bands, the chatter fades into the distance
Replaced by the rhythmic sound of a paddle wheel
Churning water round and round

The music starts up inside, it’s loud once again
My heart returns to racing
I grab my sweatheart and dance to the new rhythm
Imagining the riverfront romances of years ago
I embrace it for my own

The Magnolia Belle, The Natchez, The Mississippi Queen, The PA Denny, Delta Queen, General Jackson, Majestic, Spirit of Peoria, and more have all docked upon the Cincinnati shore. Last festival was 2006, here’s hoping the next festival is coming in 2010 and you’ll have the chance to be inspired by a cruise.