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 »
Brilliant oranges and golds break the gray morning sky, I settle down onto the well worn beige couch. I am waiting, like most mornings, for Mikelle to call out for me. For her to signal she is awake and ready to start the day. Many days she lays awake waiting for the doorknob to turn
New Year Brings Big Changes and Sweet Memories Read More »
Soe Are you the gift under the tree? Imagine a small dollhouse on a post next to a big pine tree in a suburban front yard. The walls are painted with a warm, inviting color, perhaps trimmed in white. There is a small shingled roof and double doors which open wide. Now, imagine the little
The Christmas Gift is You! Read More »
By Taylor Mason and Katherine Carol As the weather begins to turn wintry and the days grow shorter and darker, we prepare for the changing of the seasons. We are also preparing for a changing of our team. It is always hard to say goodbye to our girls when it is time for them to
Saying ‘Bye to One of Our Own Read More »
November, the month before Christmas, is affectionately known as Movember where a guy can sport a mustachioed look and feel confident about it. November is the month where the days are short and bright and the nights are long and chilly. November is the month we honor Veterans tasked with protecting our country. Society salutes
Thanksgiving…a tribute to Veterans and Heros Read More »
Target on Target. A guest blog for the Shining Beautiful Series by Taylor Mason. Lately, Mikelle and her girls have been spending more and more time in the wide, red-accented aisles of Target. We’ve come to appreciate those aisles for their width and the ease in which Mikelle is able to navigate herself in them.
Life can be challenging. Life with a disability can be overwhelming. Each day has the potential to be an uphill battle, whether psychological or physical, it can be painful and discouraging. We all desire a happy, pain-free, and H.O.P.E. filled life with rich meaning and contribution. Despite our difficulties, we need to choose each day
Inspiring and Energy…finding your spirit in the arts. Read More »
It was nine o’clock on a late Winter’s morning at Mikelle’s condo on Clarkson Street in the heart of Denver. Sunlight filtered through slatted mini-blinds as the sun struggled to rise above clouds hugging the horizon. The smell of fresh coffee filled the living room. Taylor sat on the couch, still in her pajamas, legs
Getting Down with the Gilmore Girls Read More »
