Forty years ago my husband Tym and I moved to Catawba County. We had both grown up in in rural Illinois, a land platted in a grid. Directions were given by the compass. But in this booming place we learned that locals navigate by where things used to be. Tuesday, June 18, 2019
When she was a little girl... In the years gone past... Most homes had a Mother and a Father... Their kids knew who they were... Their kids and everyone else knew... It was called a family... Sunday, June 16, 2019
Most people want peace, tranquility, excitement, security, and purpose in their lives. Some don’t, and that’s okay, too. But by and large, the comments I get from people, via email and in person, are that they want to live a great life…yet, somehow, they don’t always do it. Friday, June 14, 2019
Wednesday June 12th was Time Out Day. Not a punishment for children, it's a procedure that could help to prevent errors in hospital operating rooms. Wednesday, June 12, 2019
In Lincoln County, North Carolina, the volunteer firefighter shortage has reached a critical emergency state. Every 4.1 days in North Carolina a life is lost to fire. That’s one person gone every week or less. Who is next? Who will we lose this week? Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Thoughts, beliefs, and words. All of these is important, and together, they are powerful. Thoughts lead to beliefs, and beliefs lead to words – the words that come out of your mouth. But even before they come out of your mouth, they bounce around inside your head for a while, grabbing onto other words and thoughts. Thursday, June 6, 2019
On May 26, I joined a small crowd at the Memorial Day ceremony in Eastview Cemetery in Newton. I hadn’t been to such a ceremony in several years, and for me, it was a solid reminder of the phrase “freedom isn’t free.” Thursday, June 6, 2019
If you put your energy in lots of different directions, you’ll feel scattered and torn. But, if you put your energy in a focused direction, today, you’ll see much more progress where you want to grow. You’ll feel more centered, more together, and at the top of your game. Friday, May 31, 2019
This week Judge writes about a phlebotomist experience from years ago and then today taking a friend to receive chemo – somethings never change, they are all in this battle together. Sunday, May 26, 2019
Are you okay with the times of quiet in your life? Meaning, how do you feel about being in a room by yourself, with no noise, no radio, no TV, and no talking? …Just you, the ambient sounds of the world around you, and your inner thoughts. Friday, May 24, 2019
Denver resident Nic Haag says he's very much opposed to the County Commissioners' decision to keep the current tax rate--resulting in bigger property tax bills for property owners. (1 comments) Tuesday, May 21, 2019
There’s often something funny about the unexpected. One morning, I opened the refrigerator, as usual. Suddenly the entire door came off its hinges. Bottles of jam, salad dressings, drinks and condiments came crashing to the floor. Monday, May 20, 2019
Making progress can mean lots of things to lots of people. Making personal progress addresses the core of the matter that’s important to you. Friday, May 17, 2019
On one of my Saturday morning trips to Hardees I met Mike Manning and his wife. I asked him if he recalled anything he’d remember forever and without hesitation he told me it was when he was in the Navy. Sunday, May 12, 2019
There are things that can invade your life... Invade your mind... Overwhelm your very being... One of these things is your health... Sunday, May 12, 2019
Have you been struggling with challenges, recently? If so, hope is there for you. Even when troubles seem to knock on your door or stop you in the street, hope is still there for you. Friday, May 10, 2019
A United Nations report on planetary health released this week has a dire warning: many species will become extinct in the next few decades if we don't act now to save them--and humanity may be in severe danger as a result. Thursday, May 9, 2019
It’s spring and the tree butchers are out. You know the crews that go door-to-door in search of trees to scalp. Recently I saw their handiwork south of Newton: beautifully shaped hardwoods reduced to the shape of surgical gloves. Tuesday, May 7, 2019
When I was in the eighth grade, I had Mrs. Harkey for science class. She was a nice teacher, but she was firm in her expectations and in her grading. Friday, May 3, 2019
Teachers from across the state will march on Raleigh this Wednesday (May 1st), flexing their political muscle as they did with a similar march a year ago. A march on Columbia is also planned in South Carolina. Wednesday, May 1, 2019
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to fly into New Orleans and then drive over to Mississippi. As I was planning my trip, I realized that I would be retracing some of the steps of one of my favorite storytellers, Jerry Clower. Friday, April 26, 2019
Last week Lacey mentioned in her column “Welcome to Adulthood” that she had written an entire article on forgiveness and her journey with it. Today we are sharing that original column from 2014. Thursday, April 25, 2019
Some people are naturally happy! Others of us have to work on it. You know who I’m talking about: those people who always seem to be smiling at whatever happens, or who never seem to have a care in the world. Friday, April 19, 2019
In her book, "Silent Spring" published in 1962, Rachel Carson wrote: “In nature, nothing exists alone.” Earth Day has been celebrated on April 22nd each year since 1970. The theme for this year's observance is "Protect Our Species." Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Eighteen - Just a simple number, but yet much importance to us in our teens. I remember being so eager to turn 18. I remember thinking, “this is it, this is the start of my life and all my dreams are going to come true.” Tuesday, April 16, 2019
I’m not sure who first prom is the most exciting for – the daughter who is going or the mother who is helping her prepare for this occasion. Sunday, April 14, 2019
In this week’s poem Judge reflects on talking with our loved ones…. Don't be the one to say “Why did I not tell them how much I loved them.” Sunday, April 14, 2019
There is greatness in the day at hand! There is greatness in you, and there is greatness all around you. It’s a matter of which lens you’re looking through, as to whether you realize it, or not. Friday, April 12, 2019
Love on people. Be innocent in your love. Don’t expect much in return, but put it out there, and you’ll be happily amazed at the results. Friday, April 5, 2019
Egypt once was one of the richest and most powerful civilizations in the world. When a king died, everything the king would need in the afterlife was buried with him, including gold vessels, food, furniture and other offerings. Sunday, March 31, 2019
Seventy-seven is a lot a years... She was just thinking... Thinking about how it all happened... What did she draw on to survive... Sunday, March 31, 2019
As you close out last year and welcome in the new one, reflect and look forward. Reflect on what you accomplished during the past year. Think about the friends you lost or gained, opportunities you missed or maximized, and your perspectives that changed or improved. Friday, March 29, 2019
Being accountable to others can help you succeed in your life personally and professionally. It keeps you on track with your goals, keeps you out of trouble, and is good for the soul. Friday, March 22, 2019
