September 2014


welcome fall by RLCFor me, autumn is like the sigh after a long day; a time to release all the hectic busyness and settle down in peace.

Summer is flashy and gregarious; she likes to dazzle—the brighter the better (and I think she has power issues). I get grumpy in summer, it’s too hot. Can’t open the windows, can’t play outside, too hot to cook… In summer you’ll hear me say things like, “Oh joy, another flippin’ sunny day.” I become a sloth.

Autumn is more introspective; she takes in the world around her. By herself, or with a few close friends, she enjoys long hikes, crafting, cooking, or settling down with a good book and a cup of tea. That’s more my style! In autumn, I can tackle big projects. Open the windows! Pull out the paint and varnish! Turn on the stove; we’re making a big pot of soup! Inspiration dances in autumn–I go from no ambition, to not enough time.

Are you in your autumn groove? Tell me your three best enjoyed fall pastimes. Tea and a book? Collecting fallen leaves? Baking pies? Share your seasonal joy and spread some smiles!

Lifting the Curtain

It’s reported that about 20% of the American population is functionally illiterate*; that means that approximately 1 in 5 people over the age of 15 are unable to complete a series of tasks necessary to function in today’s society. They read below 5th grade level and may not be able to follow a basic recipe. These are everyday, intelligent people that just have a few gaps in their education—and chances are you know one. In fact, there may actually be someone in your family struggling right now!

As Americans, we like to think that our public educational system fully prepares each individual to not only function but thrive out in “the real world.” As parents, we send our children to school assuming they are learning everything they need to know. As long as they pass their classes, we feel we don’t need worry. Sadly, this is not always the case…

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