There’s a difference in rural versus urban. I grew up in Sioux City - and it was urban (by Iowa’s standards). Because I grew up in the city, I didn’t do farm stuff, I wasn’t part of 4-H … I don’t get “fairs.” My school’s enrollment was about 1500 students...
Today is a day of remembrance. Obviously 9/11, and all the grief and anger that the anniversary stirs, but also there have been a lot of events in the past week … even the last couple of days … that are heartbreaking. I’m stunned into silence when I hear that...
Over Labor Day weekend, I was able to see my dear Aunt Margie who lives in Missouri. She turned 90 years old in July, and I haven’t been able to see her for a few years. Growing up we used to “vacation” in Missouri every year and spend a week...
I seriously can’t believe summer is over. I really had a great summer, and I look back on it with minimal regrets - rides that didn’t take, places I didn’t go … But overall, it was a success in my mind. Ragbrai was beautiful; I got in a lot of...
It’s fall again, school is back in full swing, and yes, football has started. I have once again decided to help with coaching so my afternoons are spent on a practice field and Friday nights under the lights. This season, like last, will be filled with trials and tribulations. As...
Have you ever heard the saying “fear of the unknown is the greatest fear of all”? This has been a reoccurring theme for my family the last couple of weeks. There is always a fair amount of anxiety associated with the school year starting again. The kids are excited, but...
On Sunday, August 21, 2022, I participated in the Bras for the Cause ride in Des Moines. I was hesitant at first because I had to wear pink and a bra while riding a bike through the city. But my nephews and friends participated, and it was so much fun....
I’m reading this book called The Gap or the Gain. I’m not really sure which is which, but the premise of the book is “what is our focus?” Do we live and appreciate the moment or are we always looking ahead to achieve some goal? Well, the book says some...
It has been the best summer for me. I love the hot weather and could live in 85 degree weather all year long. One of my favorite things to do in early spring is find a spot in the sun and sit outside and let that warm air hit me....
The definition of a bridezilla is “A woman whose behavior in planning her wedding is regarded as obsessive or intolerably demanding.” The whole concept is terrifying to me. To be obsessive or intolerably demanding? Shocking. (“Steve,” my inner voice says, “you are frequently obsessive and intolerably demanding.”...Long, deep sigh...) The...
