It is Friday night, and I have a chance to do a bit of Salsa dancing with friends at a new brewery in town. It has been weeks since I have been with my friends, and I relish the time to relax and renew my wearied soul. The last two years have been challenging for […]
Staff Shortages are Scary. Part One. Read More »
Two years ago, Mikelle and I felt pretty comfortable living in her downtown condo. We had a solid team of support for Mikelle. Her life was fascinating. She navigated her community like a celebrity. I had the freedom to support her when needed and have projects of my own and the opportunity to socialize and
Back to the Future? Read More »
I thought this summer, Mikelle’s long-standing birthday tradition of a large gathering of friends at the local park might insist on a return to normal after last summer’s smaller, more intimidate party highlighting a solo from a local cellist. It was a good party, but the buoyant celebration with kids running about, dogs chasing squirrels,
Rituals Matter Even When They Change. Read More »
Advocacy is a Latin term made up of two words “Ad” and “Voca” which means “amplify” and “Voice” thus advocacy is the process of amplifying the voices of the voiceless. “Advocacy” is often defined by agencies and individuals as a “Systematic and serious process of amplifying the voices of the voiceless”. ~ The World Blind Union Cavepeople
Adding Voice to Advocacy Read More »
These days the fruit on the vine bears a copious crop of frustration. December at our home in downtown Denver proved to be nearly overwhelming as lives changed, world events erupted, and my Steady Betty gold 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe met
The Fruits of Frustration Read More »
Many of you, who came of age in the 1970s like me, remember being inspired by a television commercial. It was a Coca Cola commercial, where a lighted candle appears on the screen, and we see a young, beautiful woman singing, “I’d Like the World to Sing in Perfect Harmony,” the camera pans out. We
Why is it important to announce a new team member? For one thing, we love to share the sunshine in our lives! Take a look, Salena radiates love and fun, doesn’t she? We offer tips and tricks to everyday life with a disability that can show others in search of ideas and good vibes on
Welcome, Sunshine! Read More »
The ornaments are up on the tree, the garland glitters, and the string of lights twinkle like stars in the night. A mound of wrapping paper is stacked next to gifts not yet wrapped. The sacred holiday nears. Packages arrive on doorsteps with the wish that not a single porch pirate dare steal the joy
The Spirit of Christmas Shines Beautiful at Our Home Read More »
Here at Shining Beautiful, we advocate for employment for people with disabilities. Mikelle has been working in some form or fashion since she was sixteen years old. In the very near future, Mikelle and I are starting a podcast featuring interviews and discussions with advocates, employment specialists, thought leaders and whoever we find interesting. Colorado
How is Employment First Down Under? Read More »
“When I find myself in times of trouble Mother Mary comes to me Speaking words of wisdom ‘Let it be’ And in my hour of darkness She is standing right in front of me Speaking words of wisdom ‘Let it be’.” -The Beatles When you are at your weakest, be it emotionally or physically, and
Momma Mikelle….the Circle of Support Goes Both Ways Read More »
