• Teaching

    Why I teach

    “…until one sees with one’s own eyes and comes to feel with one’s own heart, one will never understand other people.” Eleanor Roosevelt “When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die.” Eleanor Roosevelt I’ve been watching, The Roosevelts, a Ken Burns documentary on PBS. Several years ago, I spent time in Hyde Park New York and toured their houses. In fact while we ventured the grounds of Val-Kill, we were asked to keep silent because Ken Burns was filming. I learned of Eleanor Roosevelt’s commitment to helping others.  I brought home a book of Eleanor’s quotes and a bookmark. Both sit on my desk as reminders that as I go through daily life I must be conscious of my responsibility…

  • Inspiration,  Travel & Accessibility

    Money vs Humanity

    “We all create the person we become by our choices as we go through life.” Eleanor Roosevelt It was a Friday morning. I had just driven from Cape Coral, Florida to Champaign Illinois, over 1,100 miles in two days. Even after a good night’s sleep, my body and mind were exhausted. Arielle and I stopped at a restaurant for breakfast before meeting her roommates at their new apartment for move-in day. I needed coffee and lots of it! An Awkward Situation As we approached the door to the restaurant I saw a man standing outside. I knew what was coming and I also knew I didn’t have any cash. He…

  • Books & Writing,  Inspiration,  Parenting

    A Richer World

    A Richer World To leave the world richer–that is the ultimate success.  Eleanor Roosevelt I have always felt it’s my goal to do my best to make this world a better place. It is why, many years ago, I became a foster mom. It’s why I adopted a greyhound and other shelter animals. It’s why my friends gave me the nickname Crazy Cat Lady. Every time I found a stray cat in need I took it home. It’s why I became a teacher and it’s why being present and available for my kids has always been a priority. During my last visit with my daughter, Arielle, she told me about something that…