Celebrating International Women's Day~ Championing Inspirational Women!

Championing Inspirational Women!

-I consider myself to be a Pro-life Conservative Feminist.  I know to some people those might seem like contradictory terms, but to me they aren't.

Pro-life
 -I celebrate all life, I don't believe in killing girl babies or boy babies.  How are you a feminist if you think it's acceptable to not even give girls and women a chance to be born?

Conservative
-I believe in capitalism, which empowers everyone, especially women.  Trump's economy has empowered women and minorities with economic success.

Feminist
-I look at women's history and we weren't able to vote until August 18, 1920.  Women didn't have educational and employment opportunities until fairly recently.  
-I was told by many in the Christian and conservative world that the women's movement was too radical, etc... In some ways it was, as I've stated above, I'm not pro-abortion.  
-Yet, I believe that women are equal to men, and deserve the same opportunities.  I'm outraged at how women have been treated by men when it comes to sexual harassment and assault.

Today, I'd like to celebrate a few of the women who have inspired me:

Malala Yousafzai 

-The young girl who stood up to the Taliban and won.  They shot her in the head but she miraculously survived.  She went on to become the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Prize.  She has written several books, and has won too many awards to list.  A documentary about her life came out in 2015. She continues to be an activist for children and women.

Margaret Thatcher

-Politically, for conservative women, Thatcher is the ultimate hero.  I wrote a profile on her on this blog.  A couple fun facts about her:

-By her teens, she said politics was in her bloodstream
-She became a member of Parliament on October 20, 1959, exactly a week after her 34th birthday
-The Soviet Union meant the nickname, "Iron Lady" as an insult, but Thatcher took it proudly
-She was the first woman to become Prime Minister of Great Britain at the age of 53
-She was the first woman ever to head the government of a major country in Europe or America
-She chose her 22 member cabinet in 2 days
-She got 4-5 hours of sleep a night
-She won re-election in 1983 by a landslide, 144 seats, the largest margin since 1945

Condoleezza Rice

-She is extremely intelligent.  She was the first woman to be National Security Adviser and the first female African-American Secretary of State.
-I've gotten to hear her speak in person twice and she is fascinating.  She has written 3 books so far.  She would've made an outstanding first woman president if she had wanted to pursue that course.

Eleanor Roosevelt

-I've spent a lot of time studying the presidents and their wives.  I still have more studying to do, but as of now, Eleanor is my favorite.  I wrote a profile on her and on the documentary, The Roosevelts.
-She achieved an incredible amount of success after overcoming an incredible amount of hardship.  She was a champion for those who sometimes couldn't fight for themselves.  My favorite book of hers talks about facing your fears. 
-This quote by Diana Dixon Healy does a fairly good job of summing up her life:

There was once a young woman, born in 1884, who grew up in the old aristocratic society of New York City and its more exclusive environs.  She conformed to her caste's attitudes toward minorities, women, marriage, and her place in the world.  Yet by the time Eleanor Roosevelt died in 1962, she was known as the First Lady of the world and the champion of African Americans, Jews, women, the young, the poor--virtually all who ever needed a champion.

Maya Angelou

-As I have pursued my dream career these past 2 years, the women who have inspired me beyond belief are this woman and the woman coming up next.
-Just like Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya overcome a lot of hardship in her life.  One big difference is that Maya was born poor but worked hard to eventually become wealthy and successful.  While she was doing all of that, she inspired millions with her words.  She has written many books.  I've read quite a few and am working on the rest.
-I respect, admire and love this woman.

Dolly Parton

-I've known who Dolly Parton was my whole life, but I only used to view her as a country singer with big boobs.  I had no idea who the REAL Dolly Parton actually was.
-It turns out she had big dreams as a little girl and never gave up on them.  She, like Maya Angelou was born into poverty, but that didn't stop her from pursuing her dreams and never giving up.
-She had to fight tooth and nail to become successful, but she did.  She is not only a singer, actor, and performer but a brilliant entrepreneur.
-I read her memoir, Dolly and was inspired.

Top Ten Books of 2019

My Top Ten Books of 2019

It's been another exciting and eventful year, and it involved a lot of reading.  This year, I set my highest reading goal ever and exceeded it. 

I also find it ironic that after I picked my top 10 books, 5 of them were inspirational biographies and 5 were books on empowering me to pursue my goals/passions/dreams.

1) The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up--I discovered this book on a lot of lists that had other books on it that I loved, so I thought I'd give it a shot.  Marie Kondo is an amazing little lady who gives you the tools to de-clutter your house and your life for good.

Rachel Hollis in her Made for More documentary mentions 5 foundational things to set yourself up for success-  #1 is Physical Environment.  It  was then that I realized I needed to get my house in order to be free to pursue my other goals.

I spent several months following Kondo's KonMari method, using her companion book, Spark Joy.  I would have to agree that it is life changing.

2) The Morning Side-Kick Journal--I would have to say that these top 2 books have been the most impactful for my life this year.  I kept seeing these Habit Nest Journals being advertised on Instagram and I asked for this one for Christmas.  I started using it in January and it enabled me to be a lot more productive.

It is like having your own, personal life coach and trainer.  When I finished the journal, I was on the path to becoming a morning person.  It made such a difference to get up at the same time every day no matter what and to have a rock solid morning routine.

I ended up making my own personalized journals to keep the momentum going.  I also bought 2 work-out journals from Habit Nest as well and love them.

3) Girl, Stop Apologizing--I have become such a huge Rachel Hollis fan.  Her books and life encouragement/empowerment on Instagram have radically changed my life.  The message in this book resonated perfectly with my life right now.

4) Big Magic--I had never read any of Elizabeth Gilbert's books before this one.  As I pursue my creative passions this was a huge boost for me.  PopSugar had this perfect description of the book:

A must read for anyone hoping to live a creative life... I dare you not to be inspired to be brave, to be free, and to be curious.

5) So You Want to Start a Podcast--I have started my radio career and as I gain experience, I've also been pursuing starting my own podcast.  I found this book to be helpful and inspiring.

6) We are Our Mothers' Daughters--While I didn't always agree with Cokie Roberts politically, I LOVE her books and she had an incredible career.  She has written several history books about women that I love and I found this book at a thrift store and LOVED it.  When she passed away this year, it was a great loss.

It was during the reading of this book that I discovered how remarkable Aung San Suu Kyi is, and how she advocated for freedom for her country at a high personal sacrifice.  I also discovered how Laura Bush had strongly advocated for Aung San Suu Kyi's cause. After finishing this book, I wanted to learn even more about Aung San Suu Kyi which led to my next book.

7) The Burma Spring: Aung San Suu Kyi and the New Struggle for the Soul of a Nation--The description below gives you a small glimpse into the book:

Aung San Suu Kyi, Burma's "woman of destiny" and one of the most admired voices for freedom in the world today, comes alive through this brilliant rendering of Burma's tumultuous history.  Award-winning journalist and former State Department speechwriter Rena Pederson brings to light fresh details about the charismatic Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi: the inspiration for Burma's (now Myanmar) first steps towards democracy. 

8) Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business--Jen Sincero had a bunch of small challenges in her book, You are a Badass Every Day, and one of them was to read a biography of someone who inspires you.  It was a no brainer for me and I bought Dolly Parton's memoir and read it.

I can't say enough good things about Dolly, the more I learn about her, the more I admire her.  

9)  James Madison--I have a lot of respect for the whole Cheney family, and I love Lynne Cheney's books.  This book is no exception.  I love presidential history so it was a perfect match.  Below is my  review:

The best book I've read on James Madison by far. Cheney does a great job of explaining the differences between the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans and how the parties transpired. It is a great look at Madison, Dolley Madison, Thomas Jefferson and the historical events that transpired during Madison's lifetime.

10) The Matriarch-- Susan Page does an does an excellent job of giving a comprehensive look at the life of Barbara Bush and her family.  Twenty years ago, I had read Bush's own memoir, but she doesn't necessarily give a detailed account of her entire life. So, this book filled in a lot of gaps.
I liked that while the book was supportive of Barbara Bush, it also addressed negative accusations and showed both sides.

Previously:
Top Ten Books of 2018

KC Mayoral Race 2019

Photo Credit: Flatland

Everybody is campaigning on neighborhoods, infrastructure, and housing and that's because they were neglected for the past 4 years.~Alissia Canady

There are 11 men and women running for Kansas City Mayor.  I've read a lot about about the candidates, and then I watched the Mayoral Debate on KCPT.

The debate was interesting because you get one impression reading about a candidate, and another seeing them in person.

A recent poll shows that 44% of the voting electorate is still undecided.  Hopefully, this post will help.

I'm going to share the following on each of the candidates:

-A word or phrase to describe my impression of them during the debate
-A link to their website
-A link to their guest commentaries that they wrote for the KC Star (if they wrote one)
-Melinda Henneberger's profile on each of them
-Each candidate was asked this question at the the end of the debate--What would you like to be best remembered for as Mayor of KC?-I give each of their answers
-My overall thoughts on them
-Any concerns that have come up about them

(The above photo is a compilation of some of the MANY fliers I've received)

THE CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES (the 1st 6 candidates listed below are all on the City Council):

1) Alissia Canady

When she brags, it’s about her gold-plated work ethic and how she put herself through college as a nail tech with her own small business. It took her nine years to get that finance degree, and then she sold real estate before attending the University of South Dakota Law School, where she was one of only three African-American students.~Melinda Henneberger

-Debate description~Passion 
-Best remembered during their time as mayor~KC was a city where you would want to raise a family and start and grow a business.
-Website
- Profile
My thoughts~I like what I've read about her and she stood out in a great way at the debate.  I was impressed with her knowledge and handle on the issues. 

2) Quinton Lucas

Demolition is not a housing policy.~Quinton Lucas

-Debate description~Strong
-Best remembered during their time as mayor~There was a sustained decline in violent crime.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~Quinton's profile was the first one I read and I was impressed by his inspirational life story.  I was a little disappointed by his guest commentary, but he came across well at the debate.

Concern~He received a DUI back in October for being under the influence, while in his parked car.  He has given a good explanation that he was waiting until he was sober to drive.  I lean toward believing his explanation.

3) Jermaine Reed

“He never gives up no matter what anybody says,” says his friend Melissa Robinson. “He always has a positive outlook on what could be.”~Henneberger profile

-Debate description~Technology advocate
-Best Remembered for as mayor~He helped and improved the quality of life for every citizen.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~He gave the best answer at the debate for dealing with potholes.  I LOVE his idea about using an app for 24 hour turn around time and other smart technology for potholes and other city services.

I thought it was somewhat annoying when he lectured the debate audience for what he termed "heckling candidates".

Concern~He claimed on his website that he had a Master's Degree, but UMKC said he attended there but never completed it.  Reed claims that he didn't finish one assignment, and that it was a "technicality", which he is rectifying.  I hate to quibble over a "technicality", because Reed also has an inspirational life story and was the first one in his family to graduate from college.  But I also find it odd that he overlooked something as important as receiving his Master's Degree.

4) Scott Wagner~Deputy Mayor Pro Tem

...He is one of the most straightforward mayoral candidates, and the wonkiest. In Washington, calling yourself a wonk is the ultimate humblebrag, because that’s what everyone wants to be. In Kansas City, that’s less the case, but there’s still a Midwesterner’s version of swagger in his apologies for getting “nerdy.”~Melinda Henneberger

-Debate description~Funny and Concise
-Best remembered for as mayor~Someone who gave neighborhoods a voice.

Read more here: https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/melinda-henneberger/article226515240.html#storylink=cpy

-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~I liked him more than I thought I would.  He portrayed a firm command of the issues and loves Harry Truman.

5) Jolie Justus

From her time in the state Senate, Justus is proudest of legislation that protects victims of domestic violence from having their addresses made public, and of sponsoring an overhaul of the criminal code.~Melinda Henneberger

-Debate description~Knowledgeable
-Best Remembered during their time as mayor~KC would make the list of cities for innovative housing policies, transportation policies and making sure we are ready for climate resiliency.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile

ad more here: https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/melinda-henneberger/article227131239.html#storylink=cpy

My thoughts~She came across as someone who knew what she was talking about.

Concern~She was endorsed by Emily's List.  While I'm aware that almost all of the candidates are pro-choice Democrats, as a pro-life woman this bothers me that they see her as an advocate for them.

6) Scott Taylor

Among the candidates for mayor of Kansas City, what sets me apart most are my good judgment and my hands-on leadership abilities.~Scott Taylor

-Debate description~Not Impressed
-Best remembered for as mayor~He brought revitalization east of Troost.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~He didn't come across well at the debate.  My guess, from what I've read about him, is that maybe he is more of a doer than a speaker.  The problem is, to be mayor of a large city, you need to be both.

THE OUTSIDERS

7) Steve Miller

Let’s be honest: The root cause of the pothole crisis is years of the City Council diverting tax dollars from the city’s road maintenance program to other uses.~Steve Miller

-Debate description~Slightly condescending and arrogant
-Best remembered during their time as mayor~KC had inclusive prosperity.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~He was the biggest surprise for me.  I knew he was polling well and had read good things about him before the debate.  Yet, in watching him during the debate he came across as a little arrogant.  I liked what he wrote in his guest commentary about dealing with the potholes, but he didn't have much else to contribute.

8) Phil Glynn

He’s running, he says, to address a murder rate that’s unacceptably high, affordable housing that’s in unacceptably short supply and a “transportation system that does not get people to work. If people want a continuation of the status quo, there are several other candidates to choose from.”~Henneberger profile

-Debate description~He didn't stand out
-Best remembered for as mayor~The man who excelled at workforce development.
-Website
-Guest Commentary
-Profile
My thoughts~I loved what he had to say in his guest commentary.  He didn't make a bad impression at the debate but he didn't stand out.  I was at a loss for a word to describe his performance.  I don't think this is his time, but he has future potential.

9-11) Henry Klein, Clay Chastain & Vincent Lee aka "The General"

-These 3 didn't poll well enough to make it to the debate stage.
-Henneberger did one profile on all 3

I’m asking for you to help me fight for lost causes, because the impossible happens every day.~Henry Klein

Read more here: https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article227759069.html#storylink=cpy

-Henry Klein guest commentary
-Clay Chastain guest commentary 

Gary Sinise is the Real Deal

The greatest part you've (Gary Sinise) ever played is yourself.~David Von Drehle

I am on Rainy Day Books mailing list to find out about events exactly like the one that my husband and I attended last night.

The Truman Library Institute and Rainy Day Books sponsored the event which was entitled, An Evening With Gary Sinise.  Sinise was interviewed by Washington Post columnist, David Von Drehle about Sinise's new book, Grateful American.

I walked away with a greater sense of Gary Sinise's life and a much deeper respect for him as a person.

I, like many others basically knew that he became a well-known actor after playing a disabled Vietnam Vet in Forrest Gump.  I knew he played on CSI, and that he did a lot of volunteer work for the troops.  He has done so much more...

He didn't just accidentally stumble into the role on Forrest Gump, he had talked at length to Vietnam Vets in his own family, and thought it was an important role.  Afterwards, he wanted to do more to help, and that was especially intensified after 9/11.

He decided on the Day of Prayer after 9/11 that he wanted to serve those who were raising their hands to serve our country.  He has done that in incredible ways.  He worked for the USO and many other military charities.  He started a program called Operation Iraqi Children (now called Operation International Children).  The warehouse is here in Kansas City and years ago my kids and I volunteered and put together some of the backpacks of school supplies when I was still homeschooling.

He has won countless awards for all of his service and has started his own charity, The Gary Sinise Foundation.  A brief description of his service and awards:

Gary Sinise is an Oscar-nominated actor and winner of an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild awards, and has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, all while advocating for America’s veterans for nearly forty years.  

For his service work, Gary has been presented with numerous humanitarian awards:

--Bob Hope Award for Excellence in Entertainment from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society,

--The George Catlett Marshall Medal from the Association of the US Army

--The Spirit of Hope Award by the Department of Defense

--He was named an honorary Chief Petty Officer by the United States Navy

--He was pinned as an honorary Marine, and received the Sylvanus Thayer Award at West Point, given to a civilian "whose character, service, and achievements reflect the ideals prized by the U.S. Military Academy." 

--He's also the recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, the second-highest civilian honor awarded by the President of the United States to citizens for "exemplary deeds performed in service of the nation.

At the end, there was time for audience questions.  A woman started crying while trying to convey her appreciation for what Sinise's foundation has done for her and her family.  Gary didn't hesitate to walk off stage and give her a hug.

The last thing that was said was the quote that I included at the top of this post.  Gary is an incredible actor, but as David said, the greatest part he's every played is himself.

I left inspired and encouraged to think of what I could do "to be of service to others".

President Donald Trump's 2019 SOTU

We must also ensure our economic resurgence continues at a rapid pace. No one has benefited more from our thriving economy than women, who have filled 58 percent of the newly created jobs last year. 

All Americans can be proud that we have more women in the workforce than ever before.
Don’t sit yet.  You’re going to like this. (Laughter.)

And exactly one century after Congress passed the constitutional amendment giving women the right to vote, we also have more women serving in Congress than at any time before.

As part of our commitment to improving opportunity for women everywhere, this Thursday we are launching the first-ever government-wide initiative focused on economic empowerment for women in developing countries.~President Trump, SOTU 2019

~I eagerly watched and did blog posts on all of President George W. Bush's SOTU addresses that he delivered after I started my blog. I did a couple on Obama's, only because one year the Kansas City Star wanted a quote from me about it.

~As I have made clear, I wasn't a Trump fan for the first 2 years of his presidency, so I missed his first 2 SOTU. I came on board last August at around the same time that Ben Shapiro did (great minds think alike). The Brett Kavanaugh hearings really got me fired up.

This is our future, our fate, and our choice to make. I am asking you to choose greatness.~SOTU 2019 

~For numerous reasons, I wanted to tune in this year. I didn't necessarily have high expectations, but wow, he really blew my socks off.  I was so impressed with the content of his speech. I would love to know who were the speechwriters that helped him write it.

We will not avert our eyes from a regime that chants “Death to America” and threatens genocide against the Jewish people. We must never ignore the vile poison of anti-Semitism, or those who spread its venomous creed. With one voice, we must confront this hatred anywhere and everywhere it occurs.~SOTU 2019 

~I would encourage everyone to read the transcript of the actual address. I watched it live and took notes, but I missed a lot and I was impressed with the topics he chose to focus on, and the eloquence of his words.

~I thought his description/explanation of the legal and illegal immigration debate was the best I've ever heard. The left constantly tries to imply that Republicans are cold-hearted people against all immigrants. That couldn't be further from the truth. We want lots of people to come here, we just want them to come in legally.

~I also thought he was a genius to include certain parts that even the liberal women would have to stand up and cheer for.

~I have lots of favorite quotes that I would love to include in this post, but there isn't room. Below are the quotes that had me literally standing up, clapping and cheering:

Two weeks ago, the United States officially recognized the legitimate government of Venezuela — and it's new president, Juan Guaido. 

We stand with the Venezuelan people in their noble quest for freedom, and we condemn the brutality of the Maduro regime, whose socialist policies have turned that nation from being the wealthiest in South America into a state of abject poverty and despair.

Here in the United States, we are alarmed by the new calls to adopt socialism in our country.America was founded on liberty and independence, and not government coercion, domination, and control. 

We are born free and we will stay free. 

Tonight, we renew our resolve that America will never be a socialist country. 

A second Holocaust survivor who is here tonight, Joshua Kaufman, was a prisoner at Dachau.  He remembers watching through a hole in the wall of a cattle car as American soldiers rolled in with tanks. “To me,” Joshua recalls, “the American soldiers were proof that God exists, and they came down from the sky.” They came down from Heaven. 

I began this evening by honoring three soldiers who fought on D-Day in the Second World War.  One of them was Herman Zeitchik. But there is more to Herman’s story.  A year after he stormed the beaches of Normandy, Herman was one of the American soldiers who helped liberate Dachau. He was one of the Americans who helped rescue Joshua from that hell on Earth.

Almost 75 years later, Herman and Joshua are both together in the gallery tonight, seated side-by-side, here in the home of American freedom. 

~I also loved the above part where he talked about the two holocaust survivors, Judah Samet and Joshua Kaufman (a prisoner at Dachau), and the D-Day soldier who helped liberate Dachau, Sergeant Herman Zeitchik. Amazing!!

~I'm going to end with the conclusion of Trump's address because it's so good:

When American soldiers set out beneath the dark skies over the English Channel in the early hours of D-Day, 1944, they were just young men of 18 and 19, hurtling on fragile landing craft toward the most momentous battle in the history of war. 

They did not know if they would survive the hour. They did not know if they would grow old. But they knew that America had to prevail. Their cause was this nation and generations yet unborn.Why did they do it? They did it for America. They did it for us. 

Everything that has come since — our triumph over communism, our giant leaps of science and discovery, our unrivaled progress towards equality and justice — all of it is possible thanks to the blood and tears and courage and vision of the Americans who came before.

Think of this Capitol. Think of this very Chamber, where lawmakers before you voted to end slavery, to build the railroads and the highways, and defeat fascism, to secure civil rights, and to face down evil empires.

Here tonight, we have legislators from across this magnificent republic. You have come from the rocky shores of Maine and the volcanic peaks of Hawaii; from the snowy woods of Wisconsin and the red deserts of Arizona; from the green farms of Kentucky and the golden beaches of California.

Together, we represent the most extraordinary nation in all of history.  What will we do with this moment? How will we be remembered?

I ask the men and women of this Congress: Look at the opportunities before us. Our most thrilling achievements are still ahead. Our most exciting journeys still await. Our biggest victories are still to come.

We have not yet begun to dream.  We must choose whether we are defined by our differences or whether we dare to transcend them.

We must choose whether we squander our great inheritance or whether we proudly declare that we are Americans.

We do the incredible. We defy the impossible. We conquer the unknown.

This is the time to reignite the American imagination.  This is the time to search for the tallest summit and set our sights on the brightest star. This is the time to rekindle the bonds of love and loyalty and memory that link us together as citizens, as neighbors, as patriots.

This is our future, our fate, and our choice to make. I am asking you to choose greatness. 

We must keep America first in our hearts. We must keep freedom alive in our souls. And we must always keep faith in America’s destiny that one nation, under God, must be the hope and the promise, and the light and the glory, among all the nations of the world. Thank you. God bless you. And God bless America.

Previously:
President George W. Bush's 2006 SOTU
President George W. Bush's 2007 SOTU
President Bush's 2008 SOTU
President Obama's 2010 SOTU
President Obama's 2015 SOTU

The Morning SideKick Journal

Year of Personal Growth

2018 was a year of change and great personal growth for me.  I am excited to start 2019 off by building on all of that growth.

I was looking at various personal growth journals last year, and finally decided on Habit Nest's The Morning Sidekick Journal. 

Habit Nest has a variety of journals and their mission statement is:

To provide you with the information, motivation and accountability you need to enact the change you want to see in your life in bite-sized pieces you can swallow whole and implement immediately.

I have been using it for 8 days and it has been exactly what I needed.  It helps my ADD brain stay focused on what it important.  I've had an amazingly productive week.

It has affirmations and other encouragement throughout the journal to help keep you motivated.  If you are looking for that extra spark to make your year/life better, this is it.

Top Ten Books of 2018

My Top Ten Books of 2018

It has been an exciting and eventful year, and it all started with a book!

1) You are a Badass--This is the book that kicked it all off.  If you haven't read it yet, check out my review and get your copy.  Jen Sincero inspires you to live your best life while entertaining you at the same time.

2) You are a Badass at Making Money--Another phenomenal book by Jen Sincero. It is not an understatement to say that both of her badass books have dramatically changed my life.

Sincero reveals (in a way that finally clicked for me) that the way to changing your life is by changing your thoughts.

3) Girl, Wash Your Face-- "Rachel uses her infectious energy to empower women to take control of their lives and pursue their passions without fear. Motivational, inspirational, and always approachable."

The above quote describes Rachel Hollis so well. I LOVED, LOVED this book. I was telling my nurse one day about how I had been inspired by You are a Badass, and she told me I needed to read this book.

Somehow, I knew that I needed to read it and went home and ordered it from Amazon right away.

Rachel has motivated me, inspired me and empowered me to pursue my passions without fear, and I love her for it.

4) The Pursuit of Happyness-- I can't believe that it was only a year ago that I first saw the 2006 movie based on this book. The movie really inspired me to not give up on my dreams.

As with most things in life, the movie only showed a portion of how hard things were for Gardner and how long it took him to get back on his feet. To say this is an inspirational true story is an understatement. Once you get into the meat of the book it is hard to put down.

5) Never Broken--I heard Jewel speak at a radio convention in Orlando. She talked about her work helping people cope with anxiety. It really spoke to me and I researched more about her and discovered this book.

Jewel's life story is incredible and her hardships have helped create a woman who is full of insight and wisdom.

This book was therapeutic and helped me to gain insight into my own life as well. I can't recommend this book highly enough.

6) Dream More--I've only recently become aware of what a bad ass Dolly Parton is and I'm impressed. She came from very humble beginnings but believed in herself and God. She followed her dreams no matter how many people told her she couldn't, and has achieved success on multiple levels.

She is not only a successful singer and actress, but she has done amazing things for her hometown which branched out to being nationwide accomplishments. She is known to be the book lady by many because of her huge efforts to combat illiteracy.

This book is just a snapshot of her words of wisdom on how to live a meaningful life. It is inspirational and a must read for anyone who wants to live life with a purpose.

7) What Would Dolly Do?--This year has been one of self-discovery and finding the courage to finally follow my dreams. I've found some role models who have paved the way and Dolly Parton is at the top of the list. The more I learn about her, the more I am impressed and amazed.

She has not only followed her dreams and accomplished huge things, but she has given back and done unbelievable things through her charities. She has smashed through the glass ceiling in so many ways, we could all learn so much from her life.

The author of this book does a great job of enabling us to learn all the lessons from Dolly's life. This book was a great idea and well executed.

8) I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings-- Maya Angelou is my other heroine of the year.  I didn't realize what an incredible woman she was until watching a documentary recently. When I started looking up her books I found that she had written numerous autobiographies of her life. This one was the first one, it was painful to learn of some of what she'd been through, but amazing to see her resilience.

She was an advocate for civil rights and women's rights, and an incredible role model for us all.  

9) Phenomenal Woman--A great set of empowering poems for women by Maya Angelou.  
10) 29 Gifts--This book was mentioned and recommended by Jen Sincero. I decided to check it out and was not disappointed. I found Walker's journey through the 29 gifts inspirational. As a result, I  started my own 29 gifts in 29 days journey myself. 

November 6, 2018 Sample Ballot for Clay County, Missouri

It's been a LONG 12 years, but the chance has finally arrived to unseat Claire McCaskill!!

I worked my tail off for Jim Talent back in 2006 and wasn't happy when McCaskill won.  The above  picture is what I posted in the aftermath to convey how distraught I was about the election.

I remember telling my friends that I would be over 40 by the time we could get rid of her, if I had only known.  As most of you know, we had a jack**s run in 2012 that even I couldn't vote for.

2018 has arrived and we finally have a great candidate, I cannot stress how important a vote for Josh Hawley is, make a mad dash to your polling place on election day.  Gateway Pundit lays it out plain and simple.

Clay County Judges
The big question for many voters is how to vote on judges.  Usually, you can only find generic information about them.  The only guidance you have is which Governor appointed them, that gives you an idea of their judicial philosophy.

YourMissouriJudges.org gives you an overview on judges by county.  I was able to look at the Clay County link and then research which judges were appointed by who.  Below are the judges appointed by Republican Governors that I would recommend voting yes on:

-Judge W. Brent Powell
-Judge David P. Chamberlain
-Judge Tim Flook (I know him personally, some of you should too since he was Missouri State Rep in the Liberty area).

Ballot Amendments and Propositions
As usual, some of these are purposely misleading and confusing, especially Amendment 1.
Vote NO on Amendment 1~StopAmendment1.com

Missouri's 3 Medical Marijuana Ballot Measures
I will differ with some conservatives on this issue.  I am in favor of medical marijuana because I have personally witnessed how it can help those with legitimate pain issues, epilepsy, etc...  I also think it can help with the opioid crisis.

This article lays out the differences in the 3 separate measures.  I am recommending a YES vote on Amendment 2.

Vote No on Prop B and Prop D 
Prop B sounds good, but these are the reasons why raising the minimum wage can hurt the economy.
Prop D is an expensive tax increase.  Our taxes and gas prices are obscenely high enough without adding 10 cents more per gallon.  The pro's and con's of Prop D.

The Rest of the Candidates
I am recommending voting for all the Republicans except for Saundra McDowell for Missouri Auditor.

I am particularly excited about Mary Hill running in the 17th District and Sarah Mills running in the 18th District.   I personally know Mary Hill and have worked on her campaign.  Sarah is the 1st real candidate the Republicans have had in my district in the past 20 years. 

UPDATE:
I had never heard of Steve West until recently.  He is running for a State Rep seat in Clay County in the 15th district.  I found out some disturbing information about him and as a result would recommend you NOT vote for him.

The Missouri Republican Party had this to say:

Steve West’s shocking and vile comments do not reflect the position of the Missouri Republican Party or indeed of any decent individual. West’s abhorrent rhetoric has absolutely no place in the Missouri Republican Party or anywhere. We wholeheartedly condemn his comments.

Read more here: https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article216387050.html#storylink=cpy

    

Vice President Mike Pence Rally at HyVee Arena in Kansas City

It's a choice between resistance and results.

Conventional wisdom says it's going to be tough to post victories in Kansas and Missouri this year. But I think we all know what President Donald Trump thinks of conventional wisdom. We made history in 2016 and we're going to make history in 2018.~VP Mike Pence

I have been a Mike Pence fan long before he became Donald Trump's running mate.  When I heard that he was coming to Kansas City, I was excited.

You cannot legislate righteousness, you cannot enforce kindness but you can choose to be righteous, and you can choose to be kind.~Rabbi at the KC Rally 

The rally started off with a moment of silence for the 11 victims of the attack on the Pittsburgh Synagogue.  A pastor and a Rabbi both prayed, I loved the above quote by the Rabbi.  A soldier sang the Star Spangled Banner, my husband and I were both impressed at what an amazing job he did. 

Some of the Speakers:

-Missouri Governor Mike Parson
-Lt. General William Boykin (Ret.)
-ACU chairman Matt Schlapp
-Travis Weber
-Kris Kobach
-Kevin Yoder
-House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy
-Steve Watkins
-Josh Hawley
-VP Mike Pence 

My favorite parts:

-Matt Schlapp bringing up Lindsey Graham's speech during the Kavanaugh hearing and Susan Collins' courageous vote.

-I was impressed with Kris Kobach's speech and personal charisma.  He has been so demonized by the KC Star and liberals that you forget what a Republican Rock Star he is.

-Kevin Yoder quote~I’ll tell you our work here is not just about helping Republican Americans or Democrat Americans or Independent Americans. These policies are about helping all Americans realize the American dream.

Read more here: https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article221020220.html#storylink=cpy

-Kevin McCarthy's speech was so inspirational.  I'm not sure I've ever heard him talk before.  I was impressed.  He told the story of the German immigrant who painted George Washington Crossing the Delaware.  He talked about being a risk taker and never giving up.

-Josh Hawley is a great guy, can't wait for him to be my U.S. Senator.

My favorite Mike Pence moments and quotes:

-He brought up the awesome news on the economy.  3.7% unemployment rate, lowest unemployment ever for Hispanics and African Americans.

-He mentioned all the progress that has been made in the past 2 years~2 years of results, action and promises kept.

-He said that he hasn't seen many that have Josh Hawley's character, intellect and vision, and that Hawley stands for Missouri's values.

-He talked about how the synagogue attack was not only criminal but evil.

-He pointed out that the Republican party (especially Hawley & Yoder) will always protect pre-existing conditions.  (It has really upset me how the Democrat party has tried to say that Republican candidates that aren't for Obamacare are against protecting those with pre-existing conditions.  It's a boldface lie and not true.)

Radio Show 2018

Radio Show 2018 in Orlando, Florida
In August, I posted about my awesome experience at the MBA Radio Talent Institute.  While there, Dan Vallie encouraged us to apply to the 2018 Radio Show Convention in Orlando.  Several of us (Kadrae Smith, Kramer Sansone, Bukola and I) applied and got accepted.

My Favorite Parts...
Luncheon with Major Garrett and Jill Schlesinger
When I found out that Major Garrett was going to be one of the speakers, I was excited.  I got to meet him and he was very real and genuine.  I talked to him about Tony Snow and he confirmed that Tony was the real deal.

Garrett talked about his new book, Mr. Trump's Wild Ride.  I look forward to reading it.

Mentor Match-ups
These were small group sessions where we got to meet mentors in the radio industry.  My 2 favorites were Bob Proffitt (President & CEO of Alpha Media) and Laurie Kahn (Founder & Owner of Media Staffing Network).  

Podcasting Panel with Mario Lopez (aka Slater) and Jewel.
Jewel mentioned her work with helping people overcome anxiety.  While writing this post I looked up her site, and I am so excited.  As someone who has had a long journey overcoming anxiety, it is neat to see the outreach she is doing.

She also has a book that came out in 2015, Never Broken:Songs Are Only Half the Story.  I am excited to check it out.

My 3 Goals to Accomplish Post Radio Show
I decided I wanted to come away with 3 objectives, now that I have a fire lit under me.

1) Start my Podcast~I have been wanting to do this since I left MBA in August.  I transitioned from being a server to doing Lyft/Uber and there was a learning curve but I think I'm good now.  It's past time to dive in and start doing a podcast.

2) Create a Business Card~Yes, it's going to be pink.

3) Create a Kick-ass Air Check and Resume 

Links:
-Radio Show 2018
-Radio Talent Institute
-Never Broken with Jewel~Make Happiness a Habit
-Media Staffing Network