National Bike Month

After a cold, wet winter, spring has finally made it to Colorado, and outdoor enthusiasts—myself included—are taking full advantage. Walkers, runners, and cyclists have been out in droves, and I’m so thankful to live in a community that supports fitness—and alternative modes of transportation. In fact, according to the League of American Bicyclists, Denver has more than doubled their bike commuter share since 2000.

May is National Bike Month, and communities around the country are capitalizing on this “opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride.” As a recreational cyclist, I like to think of the time I spend on my bike as exercise and cheap therapy. There’s nothing quite like heading out on a long ride with great friends, and I’m convinced that there’s no better way to see your city than on the bike. But the benefits don’t end there. Cycling supports the economy, costs less than driving a car, and reduces both road congestion and air pollution (see http://www.bikesbelong.org/resources/stats-and-research/statistics/ to learn more).

For more information about National Bike Month—and to begin planning for next year—visit http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bikemonth/.

See you on the road!

We’d love to hear from you: why do you ride (or run, or walk, etc.)? Leave us a comment below!

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Happy Mother’s Day!

On Mother’s Day, I always find myself reflecting on the lessons, both big and small, that I’ve learned from all of the women who’ve made a difference in my life. Mothering, to me, extends far beyond the act of bearing children and the process of raising them. In fact, some of the best moms that I’ve known haven’t been mothers at all—at least in the traditional sense. Real motherhood, as I’ve come to understand it, is about believing in possibilities and choosing to love unconditionally.

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National Teacher Day

I've always thought that teachers in their way are holy angels leading their flocks out of the darkness.”
~Jeanette Walls, Half Broke Horses~

When I came across this quote by Jeanette Walls, it really struck a chord. I was fortunate to have really excellent teachers when I was growing up, and so many of my friends—strong, inspired, compassionate people—have felt called to education. I’m continually amazed by their tenacity, even in the face of tremendous challenges and obstacles, and I am often inspired by their passion for inspiring a love of learning in the young people they reach.

Today is National Teacher Day, and I invite you to join me in celebrating all of the teachers who have helped us learn to read, write, reason, and so much more. If you’re looking for creative ways to show your appreciation for the educators who’ve made a difference in your life (or the lives of your children), make sure you visit http://www.nea.org/home/1359.htm. We would also love to hear about that special teacher in your life.... Share your story with us! 

 To all of the teachers out there: Thank you. For everything. You make a difference!
 

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Magic Beans

Like so many others, I believe that it’s usually the small things that, collectively, create the greatest impact. But when I first learned about the Women’s Bean Project, I have to admit that I was skeptical.

Beans? Changing lives? Really?

So I did a little research. Founded by Jossy Eyre in 1989, the Women’s Bean Project strives “to change women's lives by providing stepping stones to self-sufficiency through social enterprise.” Motivated by the realization that providing women with valuable business skills could help break the cycle of poverty, Eyre created a program that has helped a number of women—many of them homeless—to provide for themselves and their families

Bolstered by community support, the Women’s Bean Project has grown tremendously over the last 20 years. King Soopers, a large local grocery chain, now carries a number of their products, and their list of offerings includes salsa mixes, spices, coffee beans, and jellybeans in addition to the bean soups that started it all.

And the answer to my original question? An unequivocal yes. But you shouldn't take my word for it. If you have a few minutes to spare today, stop by the Women’s Bean Project website and read the stories from some of the program’s participants. You’ll be amazed to see just how powerful—and possible even magical-- beans can be: http://www.womensbeanproject.com/whatwomensay.html.

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National Volunteer Week

When I was growing up in Iowa, my family—and our greater community—made it clear that serving others is truly the highest human calling. No matter how much (or how little) someone had, they found a way to give money, time, or support to those   in need.

Over the years, I’ve tried to remember—and instill in my daughters—this message that still feels so true. And I’ve learned that, at one time or another, we’re all “in need” of something—and I’m so grateful for all of the help and support that I’ve received.

This week—April 21-27-- is National Volunteer Week, a celebration of the services (and the servers) that make the world better, brighter, and maybe even a little easier. If you’re seeking an opportunity or organization that aligns with your goals and values, take a few minutes to visit these super sites:

• Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org)
• Volunteers of America http://www.voa.org/Get-Involved/Volunteer/Get-Involved
• Corporation for National and Community Service (http://www.serve.gov)

And we’d love to hear from you, too:

Are there any services, organizations, or individuals who are really working to make a difference in your community? Are you a volunteer with a story to share? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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