Publisher’s Note
This issue is all about women who found their place in this world and want to encourage others to do the same. Being strong, fearless, and kind happens to be a common thread amongst these ladies. Coincidence? I don’t think so. These women are making a difference because they took a bold position to make changes. They each have their unique story and experiences through their journey to success, and they’re willing to share it with us. We can all tap into deeper wisdom and lay the groundwork for change, and we can thank them by supporting their businesses and efforts.
I’m always inspired by our featured women, and this year is no exception. Read about them in our feature titled “Women to Watch 2019” starting on page 14. To all of these ladies, we say “Thank you!” for your courage, dedication, and fierce determination.
My mother had a big heart and, like most mothers, an incredible ability to consistently see the best in her children. She was always there to accept us and love us. Unfortunately, she died suddenly one evening in 2013. There was no beginning, middle, or end to her disease – it just happened and she was gone. They said it was a heart attack, complicated by diabetes.
Heart disease is the number one killer of women, and it causes one in three deaths each year. The good news is we now have a better understanding of the surprising symptoms women may experience during a heart attack and better ways of prevention. Read “Six Great Ways to Protect Your Heart” on page 36.
Regardless of how far we’ve come, women continue to play a vital role in making a house a home. Mothers often take the lead in teaching children about the world – the good, the bad, and how to differentiate between the two. Mother’s Day reminds me to never forget the important lessons I’ve tried to pass on to my kids: to exercise forgiveness and acceptance, and above all else, to celebrate happiness in the simplest form, appreciate abundance through gratitude, and to love one another always. Read “The Seasons of Motherhood” on page 32 and don’t forget to celebrate the wonderful women in your life on Sunday, May 12. While you’re at it, share the articles “Women – Learn to Brag!” on page 13 and “Are You Addicted to Approval?” on page 38.
As you gear up for the last weekend of May with a weekend getaway or prepping the grill for a backyard barbeque, keep in mind that Memorial Day means so much more than a good time: it’s designated to honor our fallen soldiers. Please take a moment on May 27 to pay tribute to the men and women, as well as their families, who sacrificed so much for all of us. Let us never forget that freedom has never been free.
I wish you all joy, laughter, and love. Make every day count, and create the very best memories with the people you love.
