In our family, the intertwining of religious beliefs and cherished traditions plays a significant role in shaping our experiences and outlook on life. Rooted in Catholicism, our faith guides us in both the every day and the extraordinary moments of our lives.

Move over Picasso, Rembrandt, and Jackson Pollack. The next "master" of the arts is me…not.

As an adult, I learned to appreciate art, the lines, the strokes, the shading, and the visual stories that an artist tells, but let me take you back in time to how it was determined that my calling was not the world of paintbrushes and canvas.

I had an epiphany last night and had to share! I think handwritten letters are like warm hugs on paper, carrying the personal touch that emails can never quite capture. What do you think?

Hear me out. I am guessing that you and I live in the same fast-paced digital world. I have always been a communicator, but my communication, which used to be slower-paced, has morphed into mostly texting and social media posts. In this modern era of smartphones, laptops, and iPads, letter writing may seem obsolete.

Growing up in the 1970s, I dreamed large with Big Harry Audacious Goals (BHAG). During this computer age, Steve Jobs was changing the world in the personal computing industry.  I wanted to be part of that. Intel, Xerox, and IBM were already making groundbreaking strides in the industry, but it was Steve Jobs who had a vision. A vision for everyone to have a personal computer in their home, which seemed absurd at the time. Who knew personal computers were only a piece of the puzzle of him changing the world? He was an inspiration.

In the heart of our small town stood a time-honored establishment with a story as rich as the spirits lining its shelves. The family liquor store, once an ice cream parlor in the roaring twenties, transitioned through the years into a thriving hub for libations. My journey within its walls began at the tender age of 14, marking the beginning of a unique chapter in my life that taught me the value of hard work, family bonds, and resilience.

The 1960s was a decade defined by a cultural revolution, and against this backdrop, Junior Achievement (J.A.) emerged as a key player in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth. This blog explores the unique confluence of human capital development and entrepreneurship within Junior Achievement during the psychedelic 1960s, shedding light on the organization's role in shaping not just business acumen but also the creative and innovative mindset of young individuals.

Goals, achievements, or priorities? It doesn’t matter what they are called; everyone should have them. Yes, even young children. Maybe it is to have good grades or something as simple as making their bed, doing choirs, or trying a new food or activity. Generally, goals are made as part of a New Year’s Resolution, but since most resolutions typically don’t last a couple of weeks, you might need some techniques to help. The secret sauce ensures the why is discussed, especially if it is a goal inspired by a parent or grandparent.

As the Greatest Generation member, my mom was technologically advanced, especially for her age. She was a wiz with spreadsheets. She created manual spreadsheets before technology caught up to her. She eagerly took to social media, even posting her version of a selfie to share with family and friends. Computer, Smart Phone, IPad, yep, she used them all. But she gladly leaned on her children and grandchildren for technology questions.