Welcome
Warm greetings! It is a treat to make new friends. How important it is to make the moments of our lives count and to enrich them with relationships, work, and pastimes that nurture self-worth. I hope you are making your life matter. Live well.
Why a Website
In this frenetic world, new communications gadgets or gimmicks arrive almost daily. Yet, in many ways, the quality of our interactions has concurrently decreased. I’ve created this website and www.barnlady1.com as places where you can quietly, in your own time, get acquainted with me and my life’s work. No need for in-your-face “social” media. There may be opportunities for us to collaborate on a project or simply share thoughts on topics of mutual interest. Either way, I look forward to hearing from you.
A Trip to The Upper Peninsula
Jan's December 2011 column addressed a topic of controversy in Michigan's Upper Peninsula of concern to those who love this very special place. Her message also touched on a sacred place in the U.P. that readers have become especially fond of through her writing of time there in spiritual solitude. More...
Window on the World
It took a long time after digital photography came on the scene for me to become comfortable with it. Something about not having neat little negatives felt too impermanent. But, the flip side is that you can click happily away without having to take out a loan to pay for film and processing. That’s a good thing!
Age-Old Wisdom and Transitions
There is always more than one way to view a situation. Remember the age-old question, “Is the glass half full or half empty?” Well, even as I grouse and grumble about various circumstances in my life, I enjoy a multitude of blessings. I am also reminded: “I complained because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.”
I recently gave up a writing contract that had been a passion far more than a source of income for several years. It is good now and then to take a long, hard look at whether energies are being invested or merely spent. There is a profound difference. In this case, sadly, it had become the latter. But by stepping away, I have given myself a gift. I can use the hours and dedication to make a positive difference elsewhere, personal projects have been reinvigorated, and new connections have quickly filled the void. Friends and family have celebrated with me as my glass is full once again.