Inspire(d) Winter 2023-24 by Inspire(d) Media

WINTER 2023-24 • NO. 75

CREATED IN

Decorah, Iowa

Inspire(d) DRIFTLESS

AN EXPERIMENT IN POSITIVE NEWS

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Pear-shaped squash have pale-orange flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavor ideal for making pumpkin pies and other sweet and savory dishes. This productive variety has variably sized necks and cream-colored skin with lightgreen stripes; pumpkins weigh from five to eight pounds at maturity. Seed Savers Exchange received this variety from the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. It was grown with care for nearly 50 years by the late Wayne Fortna of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, who ensured there would always be a white pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. 90-100 days. Direct Seed 4" Apart

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CENTER STAGE SERIES 2023–24

LANGSTON HUGHES’S

ASK YOUR MAMA:

12 Moods for Jazz

FEATURING THE RON MCCURDY QUARTE T

Friday, February 9 7:30 p.m.

When Langston Hughes wrote the kaleidoscopic jazz poem Ask Your Mama: 12 Moods for Jazz, he scored it with musical cues; this creative masterwork was left unperformed at the time of his death in 1967. Now, a multimedia concert performance brings to life this funny, demanding, fantastical, political, genre-bending poem, complete with visuals, spoken word, and jazz accompaniment. Created and performed by Dr. Ron McCurdy Call (563) 387-1357 or and his inspired quartet. visit tickets.luther.edu

for more information.

WINTER 2023-24 contents

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

JENNIFER SIME - SUDEP AWARENESS

ALISON BUNGE LEATHERS

MISSY HOCH

LAURA & ANDY PATTEN

LARRY REIS

BELIEVING IN YOURSELF INFOGRAPHIC

MENTAL HEALTH: YOU ARE WORTHY

SELF-CARE FOR THE SEASON

PAPER PROJECT: DIY AFFIRMATION CARDS!

SUM OF YOUR BIZ: RED-ROXY QUILT CO.

CONSERVATION: LICHEN

PROBIT: WALTER LANGLAND

...and more! 43 Rad illustrations by Lynsey D. Moritz! Read her piece on “Self-care for the Season” on page 48!

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

WINTER 2023-24. #75 YOU ARE WORTHY + BELIEVING IN YOURSELF

Inspire(d) est

WINTER!

2007

DRIFTLESS AN EXPERIMENT IN POSITIVE NEWS FOUNDERS Aryn Henning Nichols / Editor-in-Chief + Designer Benji Nichols / Head of Logistics + Advertising Sales (& husband, distributor, writer)

we couldn’t do it without

What’s the name mean?

CONTRIBUTORS

Inspire(d) – pronounced in-spy-erd... you know: inspired – stands for inspire and be inspired. The idea is that person one inspires person two. That person is now inspired. Then that person inspires person three (or person one again), who is now inspired. Then the cycle continues! That’s what those arrows around the (d) are about! We’re here to remind folks that people are good! Our mission is, ultimately, to change the world… starting with our own community. We like to call it an experiment in positive news.

Sara Friedl-Putnam / writer Sara Walters / writer

Hooray for these amazing humans!

Tallitha Reese / writer Steve Harris / writer Lynsey D. Moritz / writer + illustrator Olivia Lynn Schnur / mental health writer Craig Thompson / conservation writer Mary Thompson / conservation art Peter Heryla / fall intern Larry Reis / center spread photo

Interested in becoming a contributor? Email work samples to Aryn at aryn@iloveinspired.com, and we’ll chat!

COMMUNITY PARTNERS Inspire(d) Driftless Magazine is headquartered & created in Decorah, Iowa. Big thanks to our HQ Community Partner, Visit Decorah. Say hi to these awesome folks in Downtown Decorah or online at visitdecorah.com Learn more about Community Partnership opportunities by emailing aryn@iloveinspired.com

JOIN THE POSITIVE NEWS MOVEMENT 1. Buy local - We couldn’t make this magazine without our amazing advertisers and partners. Visit or shop with one (or many) of our advertisers, and let them know you saw them in Inspire(d)! 2. Become an Inspire(d) Member at iloveinspired.com/membership 3. Visit us online – website and social – and share with your friends and family!

find the gnome... iloveinspired.com G-Gnome is hiding somewhere in this magazine! The first five people (no facebook.com/iloveinspired previous winners please) to send us his page location through our contact form at @iloveinspired iloveinspired.com/contact-inspired gets a free Inspire(d) 7-Year Pen in the mail! 06 06

WE’RE ON A MISSION TO CHANGE THE WORLD THROUGH POSITIVE NEWS, ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME.

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

Inspire(d) Magazine is published quarterly by Inspire(d) Media, LLC, 412 Oak Street, Decorah, Iowa, 52101. This issue is dated Winter 2023-24, issue 75, volume 17, Copyright 2023-24 by Inspire(d) Magazine.

Support Inspire(d) We want Inspire(d) to be accessible for all, which is why it is free on stands across the Driftless! But you can support Inspire(d) through Membership! We’ll send the magazine in the mail, to you or a loved one, for $35/year. Visit the Membership page at iloveinspired.com for details, or send a check for $35 to Inspire(d) Magazine, 412 Oak St., Decorah, Iowa 52101. Thank you for your support, and for joining the positive news movement! Want to make a comment about something you read in the magazine? Email aryn@iloveinspired.com.

Interested in advertising? Contact Benji at benji@iloveinspired.com or call 563-379-6315.

Adventure in the

FROM THE EDITOR

DRIFTLESS Region

know this affirmation stuff can feel a little (waves fingers) woowoo. It’s awkward to say stuff like “I am worthy,” aloud to yourself. But I think when things start to feel a little silly, you gotta push on through. This is the first step in not caring what other people think and believing in yourself. This past November, our daughter ran a 5K with the local Girls on the Run group (great program, FYI!), and I volunteered to help on the 5K course. Being the seasoned cheerleader I am, I grabbed some pom poms from the costume bin and contemplated the unicorn wig. Was it too much? Yes. Probably. Was I going to do it anyway? Signs still point to yes. I put it on before we drove over, because I was afraid I’d decide I didn’t need to be that mom, again. People stared at me. As I waited for the runners to reach my cheering corner, cars slowed down to gawk. I waved (and wavered) a little. But when those girls came to my section, they were motivated! Unicorn hornbooping commenced, and they were rallied to continue on through the next miles in their run. This past year, our Inspire(d) Magazine themes have centered around an affirmation that I imagined myself cheering aloud to all of you, dear readers. You are Here. You are Fun. You are Inspired. You are Worthy. And now, as we’re peering straight into 2024, it’s time for you to take the reins. Believe it: You can do this! (Or, shall we all say, “I can do this!”) This is a great time of year to look back on what you learned over the past 12 months, and what you’d like to do differently for the next 12. It’s also a time when we can be a little hard on ourselves. I know I am. “What?! Another year has gone by and I haven’t gotten that done yet? How can I possibly make new goals and plans when I didn’t even complete last year’s?” I don’t know how many weeks I wished there was an extra day to get it all done. But there is no extra day. Okay, except this year and every four years after, in leap year. Generally, though, we’ve got to make the time. To take care of ourselves. To go beyond our comfort zones and reach for goals. To remember to rest. And then we’ve got to believe in ourselves and our abilities. Consider this issue a workbook on tapping into that self-care and self-efficacy. Don’t know that phrase yet? You can learn more about it in Olivia Lynn Schnur’s mental health article in this issue and get tons of great ideas in Lynsey D. Moritz’s story, “Self-care for the Season.” You’ll also read about Community Builders – Alison Bunge Leathers in Lanesboro, Missy Hoch in La Crosse, and Laura & Andy Patten in Viroqua – who believed they could help make their Driftless communities better. Jennifer Sime turns her grief from losing her son, Brendan, into passion for awareness. Jessica Rediske was brave enough to change life directions entirely in 2012 and build up Red-Roxy Quilt Co. in Decorah. All of these people realized they were worthy of their dreams. So, this season, we encourage you to take a deep breath. Take care of yourself. Get rest. Get inspired. And if you can, get outside. Find inspiration while reading intern Peter Heryla’s story on Larry Reis and his 40 years as a naturalist for Winneshiek County, or while learning about lichen in conservation writer Craig Thompson’s piece. He writes, “Even the most unobtrusive forms of life are essential for a healthy planet.” Lichen are essential, and so are you. Here’s to making 2024 the best year yet.

COME HAVE FUN!

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WINONA

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WESTBY

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PRESTON

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HARMONY

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COMMUNITY

Design by

iloveinspired.com

Inspire(d) Magazine Driftless Region

What is the driftless? It’s a region in the Midwest – Northeast Iowa, Southeast Minnesota, Southwest Wisconsin, and a wee bit of Northwest Illinois – that was skipped by the glaciers in the last ice age, leaving the area “lacking glacial drift” – i.e. Driftless. The gist of that is we get to enjoy bluffs, valleys, coulees, and other fun geographical features that don’t typically occur in other parts of our states (the Mississippi River contributes greatly to the geography as well). It’s a lovely place to live and visit, and we’re happy you’re here!

rad cover art by... LYNSEY D. MORITZ • lindenfern.com When Lynsey D. Moritz joined Inspire(d) as a writer this year, we knew she was an amazing graphic designer as well. We LOVE the illustrations she created for this issue’s theme & cover!

Looking forward,

Aryn Henning Nichols

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

What We’re

Loving

right now

A LITTLE LIST OF WHAT WE THINK IS AWESOME IN THE DRIFTLESS REGION THIS WINTER... CLEAN ENERGY DISTRICTS Here at Inspire(d), we’ve been basking in the glory of our solar photovoltaic energy system since 2014, and it has made a sizable dent in our monthly energy bills. One of the reasons we chose to jump into that project almost a decade ago, was the tireless work of the Winneshiek Energy District. Not only has the Winneshiek Energy District helped our region get ahead of the curve on sustainability and energy issues, but they have also helped grow a regional network of Energy Districts across the Driftless. Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI) has been pushing the boundaries and going after big ideas in how to soften our energy consumption impacts – and we love that!

In fall of 2023, the US Department of Energy announced the City of Decorah, in partnership with Clean Energy Districts of Iowa, has been awarded $1.1 million in funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Competitive Program. The City of Decorah was one of only 12 communities around the nation chosen to receive funding, and the only location in the Midwest – talk about the power of local energy put to good use. The EECBG program is designed to assist states, local governments, and tribes in implementing strategies to reduce energy use, to reduce fossil fuel emissions, and to improve energy efficiency. The City of Decorah will work in close partnership with the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa, which will manage the project and provide technical assistance to help local governments and school districts benefit from the clean energy transition and to reduce energy burdens in low-income households in several counties in Northeast Iowa and Southwest Wisconsin. Clean Energy Districts currently have 12 legally-incorporated energy districts located in Allamakee, Cerro Gordo, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Howard, Jackson, Johnson, Linn, Muscatine, Polk, and Winneshiek County – with additional districts now in Western Wisconsin, and more counties in the planning stages. Find out more at cleanenergydistricts.org

‘LIVE FROM THE ELKS’ AN ARTHAUS ANTHOLOGY A new anthology of local poetry has been released as a fundraiser for ArtHaus in Decorah. The collection is called Live from the Elks: An ArtHaus Anthology, which was edited by Keith Pilapil Lesmeister and Margaret Yapp. The prose and poetry featured in the anthology was first performed at ArtHaus Poetry Slams, which were hosted at the Decorah Elks Lodge, circa 2009-2014. Editor Keith Lesmeister says of the project, “I was so enamored by these events – the work people chose to perform, the audience, the applause-o-meter, the entire vibe was so cool, and I wanted to try to capture some of this

DR. PETER J. BLODGETT • DR. LANA W. MCDERMOTT • DR. JOHN E. WILMES

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Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

recent history into an anthology, which is really a celebration of that time period in Decorah.” The anthology opens with a foreword by Kristen Underwood (one of the original co-directors of ArtHaus), a preface by Lesmeister, and a word from current director Shannon Dallenbach Durbin. More than 40 people contributed to the project with their works, originally performed live at the events. Lesmeister collected thoughts from many of the participants that were included in the dynamic collection. Readers can find the new publication in Decorah at ArtHaus, Dragonfly Books, and the Luther College Book Store. Cost is $25 per book, with proceeds going to ArtHaus. It would make a lovely gift for those near or far from Decorah, and celebrates all that ArtHaus adds to the region. Find out more at arthausdecorah.org

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS KEEPS SHINING BRIGHT! The Holidays are full of traditions – some that stretch decades, while others are created new with each passing year. No matter how you embrace the holidays, there is definitely something whimsical about Helping Service’s “Holiday Lights” drive-through display at Pulpit Rock Campground in Decorah. Closing in on two decades of twinkles, the magical light displays deliver a family-friendly opportunity to ring in the season and support the incredible mission of Helping Services for Youth and Families. The lights are on every night from 5 to 9 pm for drive-through visitors until Christmas night at Pulpit Rock Campground in Decorah, and admission is by donation. To top it off, Santa will be at Holiday Lights every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5:30 to 8 pm. (Santa is a busy guy though, with December 17 being his last night at the Lights.) Mark your calendars so you can catch the fireworks show on Tuesday, December 12, starting at 6:30 pm over downtown Decorah. All guests are welcome to enjoy the show in the Decorah High School football stadium. A free-will donation will be collected as you enter the gates of Holiday Lights. All donations benefit Helping Services for Youth & Families. For the complete schedule and list of sponsors, please visit www.helpingservices.org/holidaylights. Continued on next page

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

What We’re

Loving

right now

A LITTLE LIST OF WHAT WE THINK IS AWESOME IN THE DRIFTLESS REGION THIS WINTER... DECORAH ARTHAUS IMPROVISER’S ORCHESTRA Live music is something we truly love and get excited about! So we are stoked to share creative opportunities to see, hear, and be involved with musical styles that aren’t often heard in our area!

band making improvised music in the second “workshop” half of the show. All instruments, voices, and styles are welcome to participate (percussion instruments will be provided for those who wish to play but don’t have an instrument to bring.) The events are open and welcome to all ages, and free to attend, thanks to support provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority. For those of you who are familiar with Inspire(d), Nick also provides the improvised musical tracks on our companion podcast project “Rhymes With Decorah” – where you can hear more about these events on a recent episode (listen at www.decorah.fun). Upcoming dates are on Sundays from 2-4pm, including: December 10, 2023 with Mark Siegenthaler (Piano) January 14, 2024 with Goeff West Senn (Trumpet) February 11, 2024 (Special Secret Guest!) March 10, 2024 Sean Roderick (Piano) April 10, 2024 Jon Ailbouni (Trumpet) May 12, 2024 Adam Patterson (Drums) June 9, 2024 Ryan Young (Strings) Find out more online at: improvisedhaus.art

ONEOTA FILM FEST 2024

Our friend (and neighbor!) Nick Zielinski has been performing in the improvisational music world for many years and has brought his brand of jams to Decorah in recent times. Returning for its second season, the Decorah ArtHaus Improvisor’s Orchestra takes flight from the end of 2023 into 2024, each second Sunday of the month from 2-4 pm. The sessions start with an informal concert that features each month’s special guest along with Zielinski. They create improvised music on the spot with both acoustic and electronic instruments, followed by a chance for the audience to ask questions and join the 101 West Water St. Decorah, IA

OPEN DAILY +EVENINGS THURS-SAT 14

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

A big part of our mission at Inspire(d) is to help connect the amazing communities and activities that exist across our region with readers like you! We also know many of us can often use an extra nudge in the waning weeks of a Midwest winter to find those opportunities. The Oneota Film Festival is perfectly placed at the arrival of March – February 29 through March 3, 2024 – as that cosmic nudge to start shaking off winter, while still embracing the indoor beauty of films and the community they create! 2024 marks the 14th annual Oneota Film Festival, with the theme of “Stories That Connect Us,” and connect they do. Last year the festival showed 45 films that generated 2,141 different film experiences for audiences both local and visiting Decorah. This year promises more conversations with filmmakers, special festival programming such as local students’ films, discussion panels with local experts, and more. The festival utilizes a variety of spaces across downtown Decorah in order to further their mission to inform, inspire, and engage

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audiences and filmmakers. Oneota Film Festival operates as a organization that “strives to bring quality films to Decorah and the surrounding communities that explore critical issues or address the great challenges of our time, such as environmental issues, community concerns, and human rights.” Not only do we love that mission, but we love the opportunities that the festival presents both during the festival and beyond! Volunteer or become a member today and support this fantastic non-profit community organization. Find details at oneotafilmfestival.org

Sarah Zbornik With you every step of the way

563-379-1292 | ajrealty.us

DECORAH RESTAURANT WEEK - 2024! One of the things that makes Decorah a great place to live or visit is the fantastic selection of eateries. Decorah is fortunate to be home to talented culinary artists who provide unique, high-quality dining experiences – from coffee shops to fine bistro dining, casual to international favorites, and of course world class beverages. The Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to launch Decorah’s first Restaurant Week in January of 2024. A popular trend in recent years, “Restaurant Weeks” work to showcase and shine a light on establishments in what is often a quieter time of year. Decorah Restaurant Week will run Monday, January 22nd through Sunday, January 28th. Locals and visitors alike can gain access to special events, menus, or just find the opportunity to enjoy a great meal out with friends or family. The Decorah Chamber is excited to celebrate these important anchor businesses that bolster the community’s tourism experience and add vibrancy to the town. Stay tuned for full details by keeping up with the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Decorah social media outlets or by visiting www.decorahareachamber.com

COFFEE BREAK AND BYO-BOOK CLUB!

Books, treats, and conversation - oh, my! Dragonfly Books in downtown Decorah is hosting a monthly gathering to connect and cozy up. “Kos deg med Dragonfly” (Norwegian: enjoy yourself/be cozy with Dragonfly) is an event series inspired by the Norwegian concept of koselig. Though not directly translatable to English, koselig is essentially the Norwegian concept of coziness. It is the feeling that comes with good conversation, joy, and connection during the cold months. Organizers encourage you to bring what you’re reading and join in for a koselig afternoon of coffee and conversation in Dragonfly’s author apartment above the bookstore at 112 W. Water Street, Decorah. This free event will be held on second Wednesdays every month from 3:30-4:30 pm. What could be cozier than a winter afternoon chat with fellow book lovers? Or just drop in for a cup of coffee and a treat! For more information about Kos deg med Dragonfly, go to dragonflybooks.com/events.

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Decorah Hatchery: 1923 Winona Hatchery: 2023 ...Stay tuned for our 3rd store opening in 2123. And learn more about Winona Hatchery @ WinonaHatchery.com iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

What We’re

Loving

right now

101ST SNOWFLAKE SKI JUMP TOURNAMENT

Midwest winters are nothing if not unpredictable, so make the most of snowy fun when you can be part of the fun! Indeed, swooshing down the snowy slopes or across the countryside on a peaceful trail can be great, but hang on to your stocking cap for what’s up next! Just up River Road on the Wisconsin side of the Mighty Mississippi, you can catch Highway 14 toward Coon Valley and Westby (another wellknown Norwegian enclave). If you head out on County Road P, keep an eye out – for the large scaffolding structure jutting off one of the hilltops – as what could be a better dead-of-thewinter Midwest activity than – yep – Ski Jumping?!

NICHOLAS C. ROWLEY

COURTNEY ROWLEY

DOMINIC PECHOTA

FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE, CIVIL RIGHTS, & EQUALITY

It’s the real deal: Skiers in full suits gracefully swooping down an enormous (118 Meter – seriously!) jump and sailing off the end to hover over a snow-covered hill that disappears beneath them. Really, it’s just like the Olympics – only in rural Wisconsin, and with bonfires, and music, and beverages. The ski jump complex at Snowflake consists of six jumps all located in the same area of beautiful Timber Coulee. The largest is a 118 meter Olympic-sized hill used for national and international competitions and attracts not only U.S. ski jumpers but competitors from around the world. The five smaller hills at the site include a 65-meter hill, as well as smaller 40-, 20-, 10-, and 5-meter hills for training junior jumpers. The 101st Snowflake Ski Club Jumping Tournament runs February 2-3, 2024, with competitors participating from around the world. Festivities kick off with opening ceremonies, followed by competition on the lighted course, and more fun continuing Saturday during the daylight. And if spectating isn’t enough, Snowflake offers memberships for youth and the young-at-heart that actually allow you to train to ski jump. Yep. Put that on your bucket list. Or just enjoy the festivities from the safety of the sidelines with a crowd that assumes you’ve all been friends since Shep was a pup. snowflakeskiclub.com

FRILUFTSLIV AND VESTERHEIM FOLK ART

Veterheim is ready to help bring your winter to life, with Folk Art School offerings for all ages – from youth-focused “Friluftsliv” programming to skill (and knife!) sharpening classes. Jump in and take on a new (or new again!) activity like woodworking, rosemaling, fiber work, weaving, and more. Vesterheim offers chances for artists of all levels to explore these world-class traditions.

JON SPECHT

LAURA THOMPSON

KAREN ZAHKA

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Winter classes run January through March and include both onetime events as well as classes that run for most of the season. Check it all out online at www. vesterheim.org – and don’t forget that the Vesterheim Gift Shop also sells all kinds of supplies for folk artists, kitchen activities, and more! Members of Vesterheim receive special discounts, free admission to the Museum, the Vesterheim magazine, and more. Join online at vesterheim.org or call 563-382-9681.

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KIDS ON SKIS AT BARNELØPET!

One of the most unique opportunities for a youth winter activity has to be the Barneløpet (pronounced BAR-nuh-lop-it) – Norwegian for “kids’ race.” This free, non-competitive ski or walk event is held each February in Decorah for the community’s youngest winter adventurers, ages 3-13. This year’s 25th annual Decorah Barneløpet will be held on February 3, 2024, at the Decorah Community Prairie. It is a partnership with three Sons of Norway Lodges – Valdres #503 in Decorah, Iowa, Heimbygda #376 in Lanesboro, Minnesota, and Valheim #364 in Spring Grove, Minnesota, in collaboration with Vesterheim Museum. It is free thanks to support from Jon and Mary Hart of Decorah in memory of Kjell Arne Berntsen. Registration begins at 9:40 am, with a 10 am start time. Participants must provide their own skis and equipment (check out Decorah Bicycles for affordable rental options), and if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate with snow, the event is held as a brisk walk. “When you finish, you’ll be awarded a medal and served hot chocolate and homemade cookies as you warm yourself by the fire,” Darlene Fossum-Martin, Vesterheim event organizer, says. If in doubt about weather conditions, listen to local radio stations for cancellations or check Vesterheim’s Social Media outlets. The Decorah Community Prairie is accessed by car at the south end of Ohio Street, near Aase Haugen Homes. The trail will be in a loop, with the start and finish at the site of the butterfly garden. Details at vesterheim.org

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RAISING AWARENESS Decorah’s Jennifer Sime turns grief into passion BY SARA FRIEDL-PUTNAM

t takes grit, focus, and true resolve to run a marathon. Hours upon hours of training, in good weather and bad. The ability to dig deep, then deeper, and then even deeper to finish those 26.2 miles. And, for most, it takes an unending source of inspiration. For Jennifer Sime of Decorah, Iowa – who ran her fourth Chicago Marathon to support the Danny Did Foundation October 2023 – that inspiration is her son, Brendan, who passed away at age 19 in November 2017 from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Each year, more than 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP; it is the leading cause of death in people with uncontrolled seizures. “After I ran the New York City Marathon in 2005, I said, ‘never again,’” says Jennifer, a registered nurse case manager at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin. “But I started following the social media of the Danny Did Foundation, which advances public awareness of SUDEP, and they were recruiting their team for the 2019 Chicago Marathon – I thought that doing it would be healing for me as I have always used running as an outlet.” Within days of her joining Team Danny Did, the foundation’s president, Tom Stanton, reached out to Jennifer by phone to learn more about her story. “It was one of the most genuine, heartfelt 18

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

conversations I have ever had about Brendan,” she recalls. “I constantly talk about that first encounter and what a pivotal moment that was, not only in my advocacy but also in my grief journey, to have someone understand it on many different levels – I knew right then that I wanted to be part of the foundation, to work to perhaps save someone else’s son or daughter.” Today, four years later, Jennifer is, in fact, much more than “a part of” the Danny Did Foundation. She has raised thousands of dollars to support the organization’s mission by running the Chicago Marathon year after year. She has served on its board since 2021. She has given inspirational talks on its behalf, spreading the word about epilepsy and SUDEP and sharing Brendan’s story – most recently taking the stage at the foundation’s “Hearts and Hugs” gala in October 2023. It’s a space Jennifer never dreamed she would occupy prior to November 28, 2017. That was the day Brendan passed away from a seizure while asleep in his room at Iowa State University – and the day his family (including Jennifer; her daughters, Josie, Mya, and Ivy; her husband, Todd; and Brendan’s father and stepmother, Perry and Meg Numedahl) were left struggling with the finality of their loss. Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 10, after his fourth-grade teacher, Karen Van Der Maaten, noticed he was showing signs of the disorder

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From left: Jennifer Sime poses with daughter, Ivy, and a sign remembering her son, Brendan, who passed away in 2017 due to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Brendan’s family and friends formed the “B Team” in honor of Brendan, and Jennifer runs marathons to support the Danny Did Foundation, with the goal of raising awareness about epilepsy and SUDEP. Below: A photo of Brendan on Jennifer’s phone lockscreen. � Photos courtesy Jennifer Sime.

in class, Brendan had, says Jennifer, been managing the condition well for years under the care of a neurologist and the watchful eyes of his family. A top student at Decorah High School, he was active in his church (Decorah Lutheran) and on the athletic field, participating in football and track all four years and, his senior year, qualifying for the state track meet as part of the 4x800 meter relay team. He also earned numerous academic honors. Brendan seemed, says Jennifer, “to be clicking on all cylinders” when he began classes as a mechanical engineering major at Iowa State University in the fall of 2017.

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This page: A closer view of a poster featuring photos of Brendan’s life, and supporters of the Danny Did Foundation. Opposite page: In 2023, Jennifer brought along daughter Ivy and two of Ivy’s friends to the State Capitol to see firsthand how advocacy in government works. They’re pictured with Iowa Representative Michael Bergan. Bottom photo: Jennifer spoke at the Danny Did “Hearts and Hugs” gala in October 2023. / Photos courtesy Jennifer Sime

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

And while Brendan and his parents knew well that college would “bring on a whole other level of stress,” they were, despite all the doctors’ visits over all the years, unaware of SUDEP. “The goal was always getting his condition managed with the hope of going off medication,” says Jennifer. “No one ever emphasized how very serious this condition can be if you don’t do all the things you need to do to continue to manage it.” In the years since Brendan’s death, Jennifer has channeled her grief into advocacy, raising awareness of the disorder and SUDEP both within and beyond the epilepsy community. Inspired by his ISU flag football team, who coined the term, she and his family and friends formed the “B Team,” which raises funds for nonprofits like the Epilepsy Foundation of Iowa (EFIA) while emphasizing the values that Brendan espoused during his life, including kindness, compassion, and hard work. Beyond fundraising for EFIA, Jennifer also serves on its Community Engagement Board, and as the EFIA SUDEP Ambassador. Since 2019, she has traveled to the State Capitol in Des Moines to thank legislators for annual financial support of EFIA and to lobby for passage of the Seizure Safe Schools legislation, which would require school personnel to complete seizure-recognition and first aid training and require students with epilepsy to have a Seizure Action Plan on file, and/or require the administration of FDA-approved treatments in the school setting. Twenty-three other states have already passed this legislation; Jennifer continues to work to bring Iowa into the fold. “We all have a personal story to share, and mine is that Brendan’s teacher was the one who recognized his epilepsy first,” says Jennifer. “If you can establish a connection, and make it personal, the room becomes so much smaller.” The legislation has cleared the House of Representatives almost unanimously for years but has faced hurdles in the Senate. Undeterred, Jennifer says she will keep on working to help secure the bill’s passage. “One of my favorite parts of advocacy is bringing people to the cause because it really is about the cause and about the people who are impacted,” says Jennifer. “I am proud to be a voice to a kid who just wanted to be normal, who didn’t deserve this, and who does deserve to have his life story shared in a way that can help others now – I know Brendan would never want to be known as the boy with epilepsy but the boy who lived his life to the fullest despite it.” Sara Friedl-Putnam is continually inspired by Jennifer Sime’s tireless advocacy for SUDEP awareness and thankful to be able to share her and Brendan’s story.

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COMMUNITY

BUILDERS

Alison Bunge Leathers Lanesboro, MN BY STEVE HARRIS

You Can Come Home (And Build Community) Again

lison Bunge Leathers is a boomerang. No, not the Australian hunting tool that flies back to the place where it was first thrown. The word “boomerang” finds new meanings these days, describing adults returning to their hometown to live. And like the word, Alison is finding new meaning in her life. After growing up in Preston, Minnesota, a Southeast Minnesota town of 1,300 people, and graduating in 2005 from Fillmore Central High School, Alison’s goal to study environmental horticulture took her first to Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, then to Minneapolis/St. Paul and the University of Minnesota, and finally on to Tennessee State University where she got her Master of Science degree in Agricultural Education, Leadership, and Extension. She met her future husband, Bradley, while working one summer at Yellowstone National Park, and after they married in 2011, they settled in his hometown of Nashville.

About Community Builders A community is defined as a unified body of individuals. You can build community in a neighborhood, city, region, state, nation… world, at any level. But it doesn’t have to be big to have a big impact. Building community is one of the most important things we can do in this life. Connecting with others helps us connect with our humanity, and realize we’re all in this together. Read more Community Builder stories at iloveinspired.com, and send us a note if you know someone we should feature here in the future!

Above: Brad and Alison Leathers with their kids Waldo and Elsa. At right: Lynn Susag (left), former Cottage House Inn manager with Alison Leathers (right), current Cottage House Inn manager. / Photos courtesy Alison Leathers

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“We loved living close to Brad’s family, but I hoped we might consider moving to Minnesota someday,” Alison says. In 2018, her hope came true. The couple and their then-two-year-old son, Waldo, headed north. Alison “boomeranged” not just to her hometown of Preston, but to a very familiar workplace. “Thirty years ago, my family created a 15-unit lodging business in downtown Lanesboro called the Cottage House Inn,” she says. It truly is the epitome of a family-run business. “My father, Andy Bunge, designed and built it, my grandparents, Waldo and Marilyn, first managed it, my aunt, Mary, and my uncle, Eric, are owners as well. And my cousin, Lynn Susag, was the manager at the time we moved back,” she says. “I’d worked there as a teenager with many of my high school friends, so I knew the Cottage House very well. Seeing it as an adult was different, though.” In Nashville, Alison worked in hospitality at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, and discovered a love for serving people. When Alison and family returned to Minnesota, her cousin Lynn was transitioning out of her role as Cottage House manager. Alison took this as an opportunity to apply her new love for hospitality to her old love of this family business. She began to learn from Lynn – everything from scheduling to bookkeeping to ordering supplies. At the onset of the pandemic two years later, she became full-time manager. With Brad now working at the Mayo Clinic in nearby Rochester, and the birth of their second child, Elsa, in 2019, the Leathers family boomerang had gone very smoothly. “While it was hard leaving our Nashville family, we were eager to become part of a new community,” Alison says. “It’s harder doing that in a large city. Living in Preston and working in Lanesboro opened as many doors for us as we wanted.” Those “open doors” were great for Alison – and for those communities. In the past five years, she’s been a board member (and past president) of the Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce, board member for the U of MN Extension’s SE MN Rural Sustainable Development Partnerships, a member and event planner in the Lanesboro Businesses Promotion group, is the current president of Lanesboro’s Sons of Norway Lodge, serves on the board of the Preston Area Community Foundation, and is an active member in their home church, Christ Lutheran of Preston. Alison also recently wrote a successful $50,000 grant to the Blandin Foundation to help Lanesboro explore and expand its winter tourism potential, and she is a member – and past chapter officer – of P.E.O. International, a women’s education organization. “My love for serving others in hospitality extends into a desire to serve my community,” she says. “It’s fun to get involved. I enjoy the camaraderie of making friends and getting inspired by other people. It’s also fulfilling to see the impact of your work. I love all of it!” All those volunteer hours, while managing the Cottage House fulltime, plus being a busy wife and mother of two small children, may seem a bit overwhelming. But Alison is nothing but enthusiastic. The positive seeds of community-building were planted in her early, she says. Continued on next page

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

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Left to Right: Cottage Street Inn builder/owner, Andy Bunge; founding owner, Marilyn Bunge; current manager, Alison Bunge Leathers with son, Waldo Leathers; owner, Mary Bunge Docken; former manager, Lynn Susag. / Photo courtesy Stacey Schultz

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“I grew up with adults in my family and small town who showed me how to serve others. I learned so much watching them; it feels like I stand on the shoulders of giants!” she says. “I learned that connecting with people, and sharing a purpose to make a community better, is fun for everyone!” Fun, yes, but still, lots of work. A great team at home and in the community makes it easier. “Lots of credit goes to my husband, Brad. Good family support and local childcare helps, too,” Alison says. “I try to do work and volunteer projects during the day, so they don’t take away from evening family time. We have fun, too, going biking, hiking, swimming, and camping. We hit up all the local playgrounds. My main hobbies are gardening and landscaping. With good planning and some juggling, it all seems to work.” Alison’s commitment to serving is one way to be a good role model for her children, just as her parents and family were to her. It’s important to her to exemplify the fact that one person can make a difference, and that we can find common ground with those around us. “Our world today has so many divisions,” she says, “and they can even show up in a small town. You may not always agree with everyone, in politics for example, but you can choose to work together to make the community you share an even better place to live.” Community-building in a small town helps keep her own perspective positive as well, she adds. “Current world events can leave you feeling overwhelmed and dismayed. When that happens to me, I find solace by helping in local projects and making a positive difference where we live and raise our family,” she says. “I see other people doing that, too, and it creates bright spots for me. We all need more of those.” Steve Harris, a freelance writer and author of the book “Lanesboro, Minnesota,” can be reached at sharris1962@msn.com.

For more information about the Cottage House Inn, visit cottagehouseinn.com or call (507) 467-2577.

Winter Wonders of Lanesboro Need more ideas for some winter fun? Check out our sample winter travel itineraries on our Chill-Inn Lanesboro page! Scan the QR code to learn more!

Explore & relax in Lanesboro this winter Escaping to Lanesboro is a great thing to do in the winter. You may choose to cuddle up in a comfortable inn or put on winter layers to seek adventures in the snow. Because winter is Lanesboro’s “quiet season,” some advance planning may be necessary for you to get the most out of your stay. If you enjoy indoor activities, here are a few ideas to consider when planning your trip. • Research family history at the Lanesboro Museum or the Fillmore County History Center in nearby Fountain. • Solve clues at a mystery event at the Scandinavian Inn. • Plan a crafting retreat or arrange a class through the local quilt and yarn store. • Grab a coffee and cruise through town searching for snow sculptures created for the annual snow art contest. • Simply sit by the fire at your lodging establishment and enjoy a good book or wonderful conversation. If an outdoor adventure is more to your liking, consider some good old-fashioned fun in the snow. • Accommodations can be made

for snow tubing and sledding as well as ice skating at several locations throughout Lanesboro. • Arrange a sleigh ride through the countryside. • Grab some rods and cut a hole in the ice for some ice fishing on Lanesboro’s bass pond. • Trek through the snow to the banks of the Root River and enjoy catch-and-release-fishing. • Put on skis or snowshoes and check out the trails at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center or make a trek down the Root River State Trail. Opportunities for fun and relaxation are abundant in this winter wonderland.

UPCOMING WINTER FUN EVENTS IN LANESBORO

Favorite Winter Activities Bring the whole family for a winter adventure in Lanesboro! Find ideas for indoor and outdoor activities in our quaint town as well as things to do in neighboring communities. Art Activities • Outdoor Adventures • History Tour • Public Art Exploration • Professional Theatre Weekend • Live Music • Romantic Retreats • Brewery & Distillery Tours • Relax & Refresh Options • Get Crafty • Shopping Trips • Girls’ Getaways • Winter Angling • Cross Country Skiing • Snowshoeing • Winter Hiking & Backpacking • Foodie Finds • So Much More!

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Counterclockwise, from top: Gold Heart Tattoo moved to its new location – just down the block from its original space – in the summer of 2023. Owner Missy Hoch’s artwork now adorns the exterior walls. / Missy has been interested in tattooing since she was young. She loves when folks give her creative freedom to try new things. / Disco balls and gold heart neon welcome customers into the new Gold Heart Tattoo space. / Photos courtesy Missy Hoch

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

COMMUNITY

BUILDERS

Missy Hoch La Crosse, WI BY SARA WALTERS

or many years, tattooing was synonymous with masculinity. Tattoos were often associated with the military or prison, and tattoo shops were run by men. But in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Missy Hoch is evening out the industry with her brand of female energy as the owner and operator of Gold Heart Tattoo, a tattoo shop on the city’s northside. When Missy was growing up on her family’s apple orchard outside of La Crescent, Minnesota, her exposure to tattoos was mostly through those adorning Hoch Orchard’s seasonal employees. “We had a lot of people working there from all walks of life,” she says, which meant a variety of tattoos and styles. Her interest in the artform only grew from there, and she got her first tattoo on her 18th birthday. She hasn’t stopped since, “I don’t think I’ve gone longer than six months without getting a tattoo.”

A lover of the arts, Missy attended the University of WisconsinStout. After earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2012, she came back home to La Crosse to pursue a career in tattoos. Within a year, she was working at the front desk of a local shop and then started an apprenticeship. “As soon as I was given a tattoo machine, I tattooed all the time,” she says. A decade ago, female tattoo artists were almost non-existent in the area, Missy says. She estimates that the ratio was 30 male artists to one or two female artists, including herself. “I had plenty of clients that would come in and say, ‘Oh wait, a girl’s tattooing?’ I even had a guy tell me that tattoos are for boys as I’m standing in front of him with my own tattoos.” She equates it to the former notion that nursing was meant to be a profession only for women. But she’s starting to see a change. “Now it’s much closer to 50/50,” she says. “I am so grateful that we’re evolving.” When Missy opened Gold Heart Tattoo in 2018, she found herself holding not only the title of artist, but business owner as well. It suits her, even when sometimes it means carrying the burden of the industry’s gender norms. “Being a woman in a male dominated field comes with a million pounds of things you have to deal with,” she says. Continued on next page

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“As a female business owner, there is this perception that you don’t have it together and people will try to strong arm you. But I’m lucky to have a support system of female business owners and other women in tattooing.” She attributes some of this determination to being raised by business owners. Missy watched her parents run their orchard and learned from a young age that “if you want something, you just have to go and do it.” She has enjoyed doing just that for the last five years, taking control of her career and her space.

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During the pandemic, Missy supplemented her work by doing commissioned pet portraits, and that has overflowed into her tattoo work (see photo at right). / Photos courtesy Missy Hoch

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Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

This “go for it” mentality has followed Gold Heart Tattoo from its first location to its new one, opened in the summer of 2023 just down the block on Caledonia Street. When Missy got the opportunity to purchase the building – one that needed a little love – she jumped, or one might say climbed…14 feet in the air, in fact, to paint the exterior walls. The work has paid off; The space has been transformed into the airy, welcoming, disco-ball-adorned environment she envisioned. It’s “a space I want to hang out in,” she says. Joining Missy in the space are three male artists – Zane Decker, Mike Marty, and Landon Sheely. They are independent contractors, but together, the four artists are a family. And though tattoo shops aren’t necessarily the first place you think of when you think of family-friendly businesses, Gold Heart is a welcoming space for everyone. “These guys don’t have any of the issues of the ultramasculine industry,” Missy says. Instead, they bring great ideas and an abundance of dad jokes. “We always say the shop should be called, ‘Old Dad’s Tats’ or ‘Three Dads and a Stepmom,’” Missy laughs. “Nothing is ever super serious here.”

Missy appreciates their input and each of their individual skills. “All of us have our own fortes,” she explains. They push each other as artists, bouncing ideas and techniques off each other. “We are constantly looking at each other’s work,” she says. “We all design using Procreate on our iPads so we’ll watch and say, ‘Oh, that’s how you’re stenciling that.’” The work done at Gold Heart is more collaborative than competitive, with clients often rotating between artists. Beyond the welcoming, lived-in space the crew is creating inside the Gold Heart Tattoo doors, Missy is excited for the outdoor opportunities the new location offers as well. With a large parking lot and some adjacent green space, she’d like to host outdoor events, possibly even a seasonal art market. She hopes it will also benefit nearby small business owners that, like her, are helping to revitalize their northside neighborhood. “It really feels like the energy on this street is on the precipice of being more art- and small business-focused,” she says. They’ve reminisced about block parties of years past, and now, Missy is hoping these types of events can become a reality. “I’m excited to work with other businesses to amp that up a little more on this side of town,” she says.

When it comes to actually tattooing, Missy’s current interests lie in colorful, illustrative designs. She supplemented her work during the pandemic by doing commissioned pet portraits, and that has overflowed into her tattooing. “I really enjoy tattooing people’s pets,” Missy says. She also loves pop culture references, particularly anything that she can have a little creative freedom with. “The weirder the better,” she laughs. “If you give me an inch, I’m taking a mile.” From a Harry Styles mermaid to Golden Girls cats, Missy loves to make it creative. “I am going to try to get it as original to you as I can and I’m also going to make it bizarre and hilarious.” For the time being, this is where Missy is focused. “Right now, it’s about living in this space and experiencing that and just tattooing,” she says. And it’s a great place to be – in a new home with her tattoo family, welcoming clients in the best way. “We want to make sure you get a good tattoo but also have a good time getting a tattoo.” Sara is a mom and writer living in La Crosse, Wisconsin. She has been an Inspire(d) contributor since 2018.

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ANDY & LAURA PATTEN

COMMUNITY

BUILDERS

County Seat Laundry Viroqua, WI BY TALLITHA REESE

“L

aundromats have a bad reputation, and frankly, many deserve it,” says Laura Patten, co-owner of County Seat Laundry in Viroqua, Wisconsin. “They’re dirty, machines are out of order. A flickering TV blares at you from high on a wall. And the whole time you get a sinking feeling that you and your things aren’t safe.” But that’s not the case at County Seat Laundry, where, in 2018, Laura and Andy Patten founded the business with the simple promise of making people’s wash day better. “We do that in all kinds of ways,” explains Laura. “By cleaning and sanitizing machines and surfaces throughout the day so that people can actually enjoy their experience. By cheerfully greeting people and playing cool music that puts everyone in a better mood. By offering services that people value. By maintaining our machines so people can get in and out quickly. And –perhaps this the most important – by taking care of one another.” The husband-andwife duo moved from Milwaukee to Ferryville, Wisconsin, in 2016, and selected Viroqua – the county seat of Vernon County – as the site for their laundromat due to it being a “vibrant community that respects its roots yet is forward-focused,” Laura says. 30

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

Above: Andy and Laura Patten, owners of County Seat Laundry, on their third business anniversary. Below: County Seat Laundry has 18 washers, ranging in sizes from double-loaders to giant eight-loaders, and 18 dryers. They also offer commercial laundry services to businesses, and transport dry cleaning orders to La Crosse, where they are processed and brought back to Viroqua. Opposite page: Andy folding napkins and aprons for a restaurant customer. / Photos courtesy County Seat Laundry

“There always have been so many great things going on in this area, but we also envisioned many more to come, especially in food manufacturing, hospitality and tourism,” she continues. “We saw Viroqua as a town that believed in itself and its future.” Before opening the County Seat laundry doors, the Pattens spent more than a year on a business plan, which included visiting every laundromat in the general area and one in Milwaukee. “We watched people’s behavior and listened to conversations and took notes on what seemed to bug people and what people liked,” explains Laura. “Then we designed our place with those insights in mind.”

County Seat Laundry is a full-service laundromat where customers can utilize washers and dryers themselves or have their laundry done for them. Natural light streams through the building’s large windows, and games and a free bookshelf offer downtime entertainment while people wait for their loads of laundry to be finished. Laura and Andy are also onsite themselves six days a week. “People say they like having us there, helping people while we process orders. Our laundry attendants also keep the good vibe going by interacting with people,” explains Laura. “Interestingly, our customers do that as well, for strangers and acquaintances alike. We often say that we own the business, but that it belongs to our customers.” While County Seat Laundry has definitely found its place in the community of Viroqua over the past several years, at first there were some hurdles to overcome. “Viroqua is a tightknit community, and no one knew us, given that we live in Ferryville and have been full-timers since only 2016,” says Laura. “Patten isn’t a common name around here, either so we got a lot of politely worded ‘who are you and where did you come from?’ questions at first.” In addition to the task of settling into a small tight-knit area as newcomers, the Pattens also had to overcome some attitudes of doubt in regard to the nature of their business. “We knew that some people scoffed at it,” says Laura. “We heard, ‘Who can’t do their own laundry?’ a lot in the beginning. So, we explained over and over that many people need a hand with laundry, such as people with mobility issues, small business owners, busy people, those working multiple jobs and even people who hate doing laundry so much that it piles up. Clean laundry is essential, like food and shelter.” The Pattens soon discovered that while their laundromat didn’t appeal to everyone, it did have an essential place within the community. When much of the area was struck by disastrous flooding in August of 2018, County Seat Laundry was only six weeks old, but it soon became a vital place for many. “While we were still getting to know our machines and how to present our business to customers, suddenly we were ‘on’ when people, often in tears and shock, came rushing in to try and salvage what belongings they could,” says Laura. “They came in with nothing, so we offered free supplies and our time, and then a donor stepped up and put money on our laundry cards and handed them out in several towns. It was a tragic time, yet inspiring. People were so good to one another.” Continued on next page

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Colorful blankets, folded neatly for a massage therapist customer. / Photo courtesy County Seat Laundry. Online at countyseatlaundry.com

After the flooding came a polar vortex, and then a world-wide pandemic. For the first several years of operation, County Seat Laundry and the Pattens didn’t have “normal” rhythms or patterns to follow, but they continued to offer the community what they could – even above-and-beyond their typical business services. “We used our own money and started the County Seat Laundry Fund in 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic as a bridge for people who lost their primary income,” explains Laura. “When people heard about the fund, donations started coming in and it evolved into a community-powered effort to keep it going – and it still is. People donate, we discount the washer pricing, and anyone in dire need of clean laundry can wash and dry a few loads free. So far, the fund has paid for well over 2,500 loads.” County Seat Laundry also offers daily discounts and a loyalty program that helps people stretch their money with bonus bucks and free dries. “But despite all the financial help we offer, our customers help set us apart in the way they treat one another,” says Laura. “Our customers seem to understand and value that at County Seat Laundry, respect matters. Kindness matters. People are treated like neighbors here – because we all are.” The support of those neighbors and the community has also led to the success of a related venture that grew from County Seat Laundry: Soap Sister, a natural laundry powder detergent developed by Laura herself. “We go through a lot of detergent. Most brands don’t really meet our high standards, though, especially the so-called natural formulas,” says Laura. “All those wasteful plastic bottles really bug us too. So, I started experimenting with my own concoction in the summer of 2022.” Laura, who says she was never into science as a kid and could usually be found reading, daydreaming, or playing outside, now found herself researching how soap works and what different

ingredients go in laundry laundry powder,” says Laura. “And, of detergent in order to start her own course, I am experimenting with other experimentation process. extensions of the business because I “I mixed, tested, and tweaked, no can’t seem to help myself.” fewer than 20 times. I even found Having worked to develop an the courage to ask strangers and atmosphere of a caring community customers to sample my powdered within County Seat Laundry, Laura mix and give me feedback. I listened notes that technically a community and tweaked some more,” Laura is just defined as a group of people says. “Finally, I settled on a recipe with something in common (like that performed the way I’d hoped, geography), but it’s the relationships featuring just five ingredients to formed between and among people leave laundry fresh, bright, soft, that really defines a community and unscented, and naturally clean.” makes it great. Each of us has the Laura mixes approximately 35 power to strengthen the fabric of our pounds of Soap Sister detergent community, she adds. each week for use at County Seat “I feel the need to express Laundry and also sells two-pound gratitude,” she says. “I often think Soap Sister Natural Laundry Powder on the shelves at Viroqua packages to boutiques and co-ops about how lucky we all are to have Public Market. / Photo courtesy County Seat Laundry in Viroqua, Gays Mills, Menomonie, opportunities to create right here in and Eau Claire. this inspiring little corner of the world, “I also sell Soap Sister pouches and refills at the laundry,” says and how no new thing – whether it’s building a full-service laundry Laura. “Soap Sister has developed its own following so now I’m in a rural-ish community or making and selling a natural laundry focusing on growth.” powder – is possible without the support of With the holidays approaching Laura has been planning a Soap friends, customers, and complete strangers.” Sister gift pack featuring a beautiful hand-crafted glazed scoop and hand felted dryer balls made from the wool of the Pattens own Tallitha Reese is a freelance writer and content sheep. manager based in Cashton, WI. She owns Words By “I’m also always looking for new retail partners whose customers Reese and you can find out more about her and her are trying to reduce plastic and are searching for an effective, natural work at www.wordsbyreese.com.

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By icicle!

Naturalist Larry Reis photographed this red-headed woodpecker at Lake Meyer near Calmar, Iowa, in January of 2023. “We woke up to freezing fog for the second day in a row,” he writes on his Flickr page, where he’s posted more than 16,000 photos (viewed more than 16.2 million times). “The landscape looks almost magical when everything is coated with sparkling ice crystals and this red-headed woodpecker was out enjoying the view.” Turn the page to read more about Larry and his 30-year career educating about and protecting natural resources in the area.

PHOTO BY LARRY REIS

LARRY REIS: AN OUTDOOR WAY OF LIFE living facilities, and senior centers to do programming and public outreach. BY PETER HERYLA He believes he has more than 100 PowerPoints in his collection, some of which focus on Winneshiek Countyver since Larry Reis was old enough specific birds, flowers, or trees. Others to realize that “people had jobs,” talk about places Larry has visited, like he wanted a career connected to Yellowstone National Park or Alaska, wildlife and nature. Raised in a family that as he tends to spend much of his hunted, fished, and foraged on a frequent “vacations” documenting the natural basis, Larry knew he was meant to be world. WCCB estimates that Larry has outdoors. presented more than 8000 programs “You just learn that, you know, there’s and reached more than 200,000 a lot of neat stuff out there, a lot of cool people – 10 times the population of stuff to see,” Larry says, his eyes lighting Winneshiek County. It’s an impressive up in excitement during an interview that number, and one Larry says he honestly was, fittingly, at the Decorah Community wasn’t aware of until WCCB Executive Prairie. “So, yeah, I had that interest. I’ve Director Barbara Schroeder told him in always wanted to be outdoors and I’m still September 2023. The numbers are not outdoors.” what Larry prioritizes – it’s the people. This eternal love-affair with nature “The most important part is hopefully and the outdoors has been the driving connecting with people and getting force behind Larry’s 40-year career as a them to appreciate nature in the general naturalist for Iowa’s Winneshiek County sense, and then motivating them to do Conservation Board (WCCB). When he what they can to make sure that nature started with WCCB in the early 1980s, the continues,” Larry says. “Whether or not organization was just two men; Reis did it is older folks or younger people, you naturalist work and gave nature programs Larry Reis, out seeking the next great photo. “I’ve learned know, that’s kind of our goal. Just to get how to do my nature photography by trial and error, in schools and local garden clubs, while them enjoying the outdoors instead of making lots of errors, and am currently starting to his director managed maintenance work being afraid of it and learning that it’s a experiment with the new mirrorless camera equipment,” in the WCCB’s parks. As WCCB hired fun place to be.” he writes. / Photo courtesy Larry Reis more and more people, Larry’s job and But don’t think for a second that responsibilities began to shift, moving him Larry spends all his days standing in away from an education setting. He became a natural resources a classroom. He swears by the fact that he’s “rarely in the office manager tasked with managing timber in local woodlands and while it’s light out.” Larry’s naturalist work takes him all around overseeing the completion and maintenance of the Prairie Farmer Winneshiek County, as WCCB manages more than 20 parks and Recreational Trail, a 20-mile asphalt trail that runs between the Iowa natural areas. You might find him visiting places like Lake Meyer, towns of Calmar, Ridgeway, and Cresco. Walden Pond, or Cardinal Marsh, or checking up on Chipera Prairie, But in the last 10 years, Larry has returned to schools, assisted Casey Springs, Sindelar Wildlife Access, or Ludwig Park.

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“We’ve added quite a few areas since I’ve been on board,” he says. “The Prairie Farmer Trail, the Trout Run trail. They weren’t here when I started, and they’re just huge.” This long list of natural areas has provided more opportunities for Winneshiek County inhabitants to experience local and meaningful natural areas. It has also increased WCCB’s outreach and brought more attention to conservation efforts. “I think just having people in the county realize that natural resources are important… it’s been big,” Larry says. As he travels from place to place, Larry’s always sure to have a camera with him. Just as his role with WCCB has evolved, his camera has too. He started taking nature pictures in college with an oldschool film camera. He couldn’t afford the larger telephoto lenses that were used at the time to photograph birds and animals, so he took photos of trees, leaves, and plants to start.

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Top: “This female cardinal is about fed up with winter and wishing for spring,” writes Larry on his Flickr page. Bottom: The lead wave of 250 greater white-fronted geese that were spiraling down to land on the ice at Cardinal Marsh. / Photos courtesy Larry Reis

“You can get better photos with a cellphone now than I could probably with a good camera, back years ago,” Larry says. “But now, I’ve got really top-notch cameras.” In 2014, Larry started a Flickr page to share the daily nature photos he shoots with those “top-notch cameras,” and his profile has since received 16.1 million views. He initially hoped the Flickr account would act as a “phenology calendar,” so locals could check in and see what’s happening daily in Winneshiek County, but Larry says that he’s received the most attention from out-of-state users. He created the page for two reasons: first, so other conservation organizations that aren’t “loaded with cash” could download his photos and use them free of charge, and second, simply because Larry finds the photos to be “neat.”

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“I took this photo with the sole purpose of using it in a program about the joy we can get feeding and watching birds in our back yard,” writes Larry on his Flickr page. “However, when I blew it up on the computer screen, I thought it might be fun to share. You can make up your own mind about what these two northern cardinals might be saying.” / All photos courtesy Larry Reis

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His favorite thing to take a photo of in Winneshiek County? Too hard to answer, because it changes on the day. One day, it’s a RedBreasted Nuthatch, and the next day, a Purple Finch. Larry takes photos of anything he finds to be interesting; he does say, however, that he prefers birds because of their “personality.” “Anybody can take a picture of a pretty flower because it doesn’t move and it can be there for like a week – but a bird, they’re here for like two seconds and then they’re gone,” he says. “That chance is never gonna come again. It’s kind of fun to try and capture them, and usually if I’m out there photographing birds, I’m looking to try and get them doing a really pretty pose.” While Larry appreciates his job and recognizes the growth in awareness of conservation efforts in Winneshiek County, he still believes that there’s more to be done. He believes there are many areas in the county that could and should be protected, especially along watersheds like the Upper Iowa and Turkey Rivers. It’s hard, he says, to lose some “wonderful” areas in the county that should have been protected.

Barneløpet Feb. 3, 2024 FREE! Enjoy the winter at this non-competitive ski/walk event for children ages 3-13. Decorah Prairie, Ohio Street Start time: 10:00 a.m. Registration: 9:40 a.m. For Information and weather cancellations: Check vesterheim.org or contact Darlene Fossum-Martin at 563-419-4958 Barneløpet is a partnership with three Sons of Norway Lodges—Valdres #503 in Decorah, Iowa, Heimbygda #376 in Lanesboro, Minnesota, and Valheim #364 in Spring Grove, Minnesota. It is free thanks to support from Jon and Mary Hart of Decorah in memory of Kjell Arne Berntsen.

“I was trying to get the perfect photo of a twelve-spotted skimmer in flight when this great egret ran in and ruined the shot,” Larry jokingly writes on his Flickr page. Follow him at flic.kr/ps/2ShLqY

“One of the best prairies in Iowa was on private property, and it’s now a cornfield,” Larry says. “WCCB tried to purchase it; we were outbid. It’s gone. I’ve seen woodlands, you know, disappear – nice woodlands that are totally gone now.” But Larry is not discouraged and believes there’s still time for natural areas to be preserved – by voting, by fundraising, and by good old-fashioned word of mouth. “We’re lucky to live in an area where people appreciate what they’ve got,” Larry says. “In some parts of Iowa, that’s not the case.” Larry also knows the next generation of naturalists, biologists, and wildlife explorers is needed soon, and encourages anyone interested in anything remotely connected to the outdoors to pursue a career in conservation. He has no regrets doing so himself. “I got my Iowa pension plan for public employees, and I could get Medicare or whatever and live a comfortable life,” Larry says. “But I like what I do, and it’s very, very rewarding. I wake up every morning looking forward to the next day. I don’t know how many people can say that in their jobs.” Peter Heryla is a senior Communication Studies major and Journalism minor at Luther College. He had a variety of fun adventures with Larry Reis during an Environmental Science course at Luther in Spring 2023. In the winter, he likes to spend time with family and friends — and of course, his corgi.

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Visit the Vesterheim Museum Store for all your Nordic-inspired shopping! Holiday gifts and décor, one-of-a-kind folk art, jewelry and winterwear, games, books, and more at store.vesterheim.org. Looking for a great gift? Give someone the experience of a folk-art class! There is something for everyone with classes available on-site and in person. Nordic cooking, rosemaling, woodcarving, jewelry, fiber arts, language, music, and more! View available classes and register at vesterheim.org/folk-art-school or use the QR code

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INTRO & INFOGRAPHIC BY ARYN HENNING NICHOLS • ILLUSTRATIONS BY LYNSEY D. MORITZ

E R A U O Y

elf-doubt is a frequent visitor of mine. Despite being most excellent at cheering others on, it can be hard to turn my megaphone around. The self-doubt comes in cycles, like so many things. But if I remember the tools I’ve attempted to gather over the past several years, I can generally pull myself out of the spiral. Going on a walk. Saying affirmations. Taking a shower. Making a list of my accomplishments. Making a gratitude list. These are the things I look to. I first read the phrase self-efficacy in 2021, as I was attempting to learn more about mental health – and also prioritize my own. Psychologists define the term as a person’s belief in their ability to accomplish specific tasks. Folks with low self-efficacy

might not try as hard at a task because they don’t believe they’ll succeed, thus increasing the likelihood of failure. High self-efficacy can lead to more self-confidence, which in turn, can lead to higher self-esteem. And when you put it all together, it brings you to a place of recognizing your self-worth. You are worthy. Believing in yourself, acknowledging your strengths, and in general, not being so dang hard on yourself helps pave the path to a much happier life. And hey, you’re already on that path, cause you’re reading this article in Inspire(d) Magazine. Woohoo! Thank you for being part of this positive news movement this year (and longer!). Here’s to heading into 2024 believing in your abilities to create positive change in your communities. I am grateful for you! XOXO, Aryn

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Studies found it increases testosterone & decreases cortisol

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YOU ARE WORTHY

F L E S R U O Y

“If it's your job to eat a frog, it's best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it's your job to eat two frogs, it's best to eat the biggest one first.” - Mark Twain

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Sit up / stand up straighter.

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Imagine the worst thing that could happen. Make a plan for how you’ll handle it. Then believe you can do it.

Eat the Frog

Surround yourself with people who encourage & support you

Tell yourself what you would tell your friends

“I am worthy.”

Recognize limiting beliefs, question their validity, and replace with affirmations.

Limiting Beliefs

Do one thing beyond your normal in order to push yourself toward your goals a little more each day. Getting out of your comfort zone increases confidence.

If you believe in positive outcomes, you’re more likely to get positive outcomes.

The law of attraction

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Make incremental goals, then

Write a list of your strengths and accomplishments, and revisit it every time you feel that ol’ jerk impostor syndrome sneaking back in. Really can’t think of any? Ask a loved one to get it started.

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You’ve got this.

Fall back on your tools and remember: You are Worthy of being your own cheerleader.

Self doubt is normal.

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YOU ARE WORTHY Believing in Yourself Mental health counselor Olivia Lynn Schnur shares ideas and tools for cultivating self-worth. BY OLIVIA LYNN SCHNUR

We are all worthy. We are valuable exactly as we are in this moment. But sometimes we have trouble seeing our self-worth; trouble believing in ourselves. Worth is a tricky thing. When it comes to the worth of objects, it makes sense to question the value of something. We compare options in order to make the best choice. Yet, when we translate that logic to our own sense of worth, we can run into complicated emotions. Let’s put it into practice: Think about the phrase “I am worthy.” Notice all the thoughts, emotions, and images that arise. Take a moment to write them down; this is important information that we’ll come back to later.

CULTIVATING SELF-WORTH Self-worth starts from the inside. The first step in believing in yourself and your inherent worthiness – regardless of your circumstances, effort, or outside factors – is learning how to separate your internal worth from the views of the external world. Using external factors as a self-worth barometer is, in and of itself, counterproductive. When you believe in your worth, you can move confidently through the world without asking for permission. You tackle challenges with strength, meet setbacks with resilience, and allow your inner wisdom to guide your choices.

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

However, acknowledging selfworth is not always a practice we are taught. This is especially true for people whose parents struggled with their own self-worth. Luckily, it is never too late to develop skills to help strengthen your internal sense of worthiness. As you work on building a more secure relationship with yourself, make sure to give yourself grace – creating new habits and perspectives is rarely easy.

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF Self-efficacy is a person’s belief in themselves. People with high self-efficacy possess a combination of confidence in their abilities, determination to overcome barriers, and motivation to stay steadfast in the pursuit of their goals. Self-worth and self-efficacy are two separate things, but they can reinforce one another. For example, our sense of inherent worthiness can help us meet setbacks with resilience and determination. High self-worth can also give us the strength to leave situations and relationships that are no longer serving us. It is easier to believe in ourselves when we know our worth. Just like with self-worth, we can increase our self-efficacy with internal work. This includes developing a growth mindset – or the belief that you are capable of change. Your struggles do not define you. Just

because you have not achieved greatness yet does not mean you never will. The key word is yet. Instead of saying, “I cannot do this,” try saying, “I cannot do this, yet.” It can be easy to become overwhelmed when we look at the space between where we are and where we want to be. It is important to remember that our worth is not attached to our success. Instead, we can rely on our inherent sense of worth to propel us toward reaching our goals, one step at a time.

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Self-care has been a buzz phrase in the mental health space for years. Rightfully so, but it’s important to understand the totality of what it means to care for yourself. Holistic self-care starts with a foundation of six basic dimensions: physical, spiritual, financial, mental, emotional, and social. Many of us have an area of self-care where we thrive and one that we often neglect. Self-care is not about perfection. You can begin to practice self-care by mentally checking in with yourself each day, or several times per day. You can start with a question, “How am I doing (physically, spiritually, financially, mentally, emotionally, socially)?” Be careful not to judge whatever answer arises. Instead, develop a plan. If you’re feeling mentally drained set limits (when possible) to reduce your mental load. If you’re feeling physically tired it’s ok to skip a workout, take a nap, or simply relax. Maybe you notice you’re feeling lonely and in need of a social connection. Or perhaps your social battery is tapped, and you could use a night in. Whenever possible, work to honor and meet your own needs. This practice is like strengthening a muscle. It takes patience and repetition, but if you keep at it, you will notice results. It is ok (and even necessary) to care for yourself. You are worthy of care.

YOU ARE WORTHY OF FORGIVENESS When we love and accept ourselves it becomes much easier to forgive – others and ourselves. When we operate from a place of high self-worth, we don’t expect perfection. You will fail at things, get rejected, and make mistakes. That is part of being human. Self-forgiveness means acknowledging that in order to fail, we must first try. Regardless of the outcome, our efforts are worthwhile. Our worth is not dependent on success. People with a high degree of self-efficacy look at failure as an opportunity to reflect or redirect. They might view rejection as a sign it’s time to try a different approach. As you practice increasing your own self-efficacy, try to view failures with forgiveness. In Hawaiian culture, there is a prayer called Ho’oponopono, which means “to make things right.” It is both a practice of reconciling with others as well as self-forgiveness. You practice it by repeating this mantra, “I am sorry. Please forgive me. I thank you. I love you.” As you start to practice self-forgiveness, you might imagine directing those words toward yourself. Notice what emotions arise without judgement. You are worthy of forgiveness.

AFFIRM YOUR WORTH Our thoughts are powerful. It’s important to watch what is happening inside of our minds. If you’ve struggled with low self-worth for many years, your thoughts about yourself are likely negative. Thought patterns can feel like an automatic, unconscious process. However, we are capable of controlling, redirecting, and even changing the way we think, but it takes practice. Continued on next page

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If you want to shift your thinking, you have to notice your patterns first. Think back to the start of this article. What thoughts, emotions, and images related to your internal worth arose? This is where you will need to begin. Practice shifting your thoughts whenever you catch a negative thought. Replace that negative thought with a positive (often just the opposite). Repeat as often as necessary. You might develop affirmations that help to strengthen your selfworth. These can include statements or written reminders such as, “I am worthy of love,” “I am capable of caring for myself,” or “I am good enough as I am.” At the same time, you can develop positive self-beliefs that strengthen your ability to achieve your goals. Some examples might be, “My failures do not define me,” “I am capable of achieving my goals,” or “I am worthy of success.” The mind does not know the difference between thoughts and reality. Replacing negative or limiting beliefs with positive affirmations can be a powerful practice.

HONOR YOUR WORTH While self-worth is an inside job, outside forces can certainly influence our feelings of worthiness. It’s important to recognize that there are jobs, relationships, and circumstances that challenge our sense of self-worth. No self-worth practice is strong enough to withstand repeated encounters with people or places that make us feel small, insignificant, or worthless. In these circumstances, an external change is often required before internal changes can stick. In some circumstances, boundaries and assertive communication can help. In others, drastic changes may be needed. These scenarios may require the help of a professional, such as a therapist. Take a mental inventory of the people in your life who contribute to your sense of worthiness. Who do you turn to when you start to question your worth? Where do you go when you want to feel confident or secure? It is important to surround yourself with people that recognize and cherish your worth. These are the people who reinforce your worth when you face self-doubt. You are so worthy of these kinds of relationships.

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Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

Olivia Lynn Schnur has a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and she is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Yoga Teacher, and Reiki Master. Her writing is informed by her mental health practice and designed to inspire, educate, and uplift readers. To learn more about Olivia, or to book a yoga session, visit oliviaschnur.com.

WORKSHEET: VISUALIZE YOUR SUCCESS A key component of increasing self-efficacy is the belief that you will succeed. However, an important first step is understanding your definition of success. It is important to visualize your end goal, so you know where you’re headed. This vision can also help you stick to your goals when you meet setbacks. Bring a goal to mind. Forget about how realistic it may seem. For now, simply focus on the endpoint. Write it down here. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Take a moment to imagine the cues that will signal you have achieved your goal. Visualize the scene – notice the sights, sounds, and sensations that surround you. Allow yourself to bask in the feelings of success – joy, relief, excitement, contentment – let any feelings arise. Note those feelings and try to stay with them. _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Visualize what you went through to get to this moment – setbacks you overcame, rejections and failures you met along the way. View these setbacks from a place of accomplishment. Write down the strengths you drew upon to overcome those hurdles. How can you use these strengths to propel you forward? _____________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Tap into feelings of resilience, strength, and determination. Take a deep breath in and let these feelings arise. With each breath out they become stronger. Note the people who helped you along the way – perhaps mentors, family, friends, and colleagues. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Imagine you can gather up all these strengths, supports, and positive beliefs. As you breathe in, feel your core radiate with selfconfidence. As you breathe out, release your worries and limiting beliefs. Repeat this breathing exercise a couple of times. Breathing in strength. Breathing out fear. Staying with the breath, come back to the present moment. Return to your goal and note how you feel. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Repeat this exercise as you begin working toward achieving your goals. Revisit your vision of success whenever you meet setbacks. iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

E R A C

F L E

e h t for

N O S A E

STORY & ILLUSTRATIONS BY LYNSEY D. MORITZ

s the seasons change, our moods change, too. This time of year can be full of joy and special memories, but it can also be a time where our mental and physical wellbeing suffers. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) brings on the “winter blues,” affecting millions of people across the world. We are experiencing shorter, colder days that keep us inside more, getting less fresh air and sunshine. Stress tends to be higher with the holidays, end-of-year deadlines, and New Year’s resolutions that can sometimes be more pressure than inspiration. How do we find the time and energy to create ongoing healthy habits? How do we shake off the stress and shame, and truly love ourselves in the midst of the ups and downs of life? How

If you have... ONE MOMENT:

Our days can be so busy, juggling so many different things, that we often feel like there simply isn’t any time at all to think about our mental, physical, or emotional care. Try to identify even the smallest moments that become available, and mindfully give yourself some care. __ Drink some water __ Moisturize your skin __ Go outside for fresh air and sunshine __ Take three deep breaths __ Stretch or shake-it-out __ Text a friend or family member __ Think of one thing you’re grateful for __ Hug someone you love for 20+ seconds __ Challenge your negative thoughts by saying a positive affirmation See current Inspire(d) paper project for inspiration: “I AM ______!”

“I am unstoppable.”

If you have... ONE HOUR:

Do you know what time of day you are most productive or least productive? Perhaps plan for an hour of self-care around that schedule, when you know you will reach a slump and need a natural pick-me-up. Or devote an hour at the beginning or end of the day so it can become part of your regular routine. __ Do a yoga flow and meditation __ Go for a walk or do a workout __ Make yourself a warm beverage __ Journal or write a letter to a loved one (and mail it!) __ Create a gratitude list Have a dedicated journal so you can reference it often. __ Take a nap or relax reading a book __ Take a bath (add some bubbles or a bath bomb) __ Take care of your houseplants __ Make an easy herbal remedy Try the Elderberry Oxymel recipe at right!

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

can we strive to fill our own cups, with the hope that we can overflow and share the care with our community and loved ones? Even if you’re overwhelmed, stressed-out, and your battery is low – especially then – it is important to remember that You are Worthy. You are worthy of focusing on your needs. You are worthy of feeling joy. You are worthy of finding one moment, one hour, one day, or more in your busy life to devote to your health, happiness, and growth. This season, we are encouraging you to remember your worthiness, and to take steps – even small ones – toward embracing the rest of your one wild and precious life!

If you have... ONE DAY:

Planning a day for yourself takes a little more… planning! This year, try putting one full day on the calendar – monthly, quarterly, or even annually – and follow through on YOU. Choose the date and block off any other events or responsibilities.

Research suggests this length of hug reduces stress and helps reset your nervous system. Solo at the moment? A pillow works too!

__ Have a “pamper day” Spa Day. Massage. Mani-Pedi. TREAT YOURSELF! __ Have a “lazy day” Movie Marathon. Favorite Snacks. Naps. RELAX! __ Have a “play day” Do things that would bring your younger self JOY! __ Make a vision board Find vision board prompts at iloveinspired.com. __ Learn new skills and get creative Take a course online or in your community – check out the Driftless Folk School, Vesterheim Folk Art School, ArtHaus, and more!

ELDERBERRY OXYMEL

• 1 cup of dried or fresh elderberries • ½ to 1 cup of raw local honey • ½ to 1 cup of raw apple cider vinegar • Pint-sized (16-ounce) mason jar with lid Fill a clean glass jar roughly half full with elderberries. Pour honey and vinegar over elderberries (you can choose to have more honey, more vinegar, or equal parts of each — just make sure the elderberries are completely covered). Stir all together, shake often, and let sit for a few days (or weeks). Strain out the berries (compost or cook into a syrup) – save the liquid. Take spoonfuls of the elderberry oxymel to support your immune system! *NOTE: Do not eat uncooked elderberries! Find more amazing elderberry recipes at growforagecookferment.com/elderberry-recipes/

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

TURNING MOMENTS INTO HABITS:

Once you’re finding time for self-care moments, hours, or days, try turning them into ongoing healthy habits! In this section, we’ve listed some mindful self-care ideas you could try to incorporate into your life regularly. But remember: The goal here isn’t to add another thing to stress about. Self-care looks different from one day to the next. Sometimes it is simply taking a deep breath when you’re feeling overwhelmed, calling a loved-one to catch up, or binging a TV show while eating your favorite snack. Celebrate the fact that you are taking the time, whether it’s a moment or more, to take care of yourself. You are worthy of nourishing your body, uplifting your soul, and being kind to your mind. Your future self will thank you!

GABI MASEK, L.AC ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE

563.382.4312 111 Winnebago St Decorah, IA 52101 hello@wildcraftedacupuncture.com wildcraftedacupuncture.com

Molly Gallagher Mediation Support through difficult conversations In person or on Zoom

mollygallaghermediation.com mollygallaghermediation@gmail.com • 319 270 4592

FERMENTED HONEY GARLIC

• 1 cup of peeled and slightly crushed garlic cloves • 1 cup of raw local honey (or more, enough to completely cover the garlic) • Pint-sized (16-ounce) mason jar with lid

DISCOVER YOUR BEST HEALTH... Dr. Scott Gamm

WITHOUT COMPROMISE. www.thenaturalspine.com 563.277.1649

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

Fill a clean glass jar with garlic and cover in honey. Store in a cool, dark place. Flip the jar often to keep garlic submerged (make sure you have a lid that doesn’t leak when upside down - place a plate underneath in case of any leaks). Leave the lid slightly loose when upright (so the fermentation bubbles can escape - they will start to form in a few days to a week). Let it sit and ferment for a few weeks… it will store for many months, or even a year or longer! Eat a spoonful of honey and/or garlic to help support your health and gut! * NOTE: Never give honey to babies under 1 year old. Botulism is not a concern in this type of ferment due to the level of acidity in the honey. If you have any concerns, use a pH test strip (the honey should have a pH of less than 4.6) or add a splash of raw apple cider vinegar to the recipe to add even more acidity.* More details online at growforagecookferment.com/fermented-honeygarlic/

__ Get out of your house and spend time with friends and/or family __ Learn to also embrace and appreciate your alone time __ Unplug! Turn off your TV + cell phone and have a screen-free evening! __ Get a good night’s sleep __ Spend time in nature __ Move and stretch your body Try to find movement that brings you joy! __ Meal plan and prep - choose nourishing and whole foods __ Support your gut! Incorporate more fermented foods (i.e. yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, etc.) See recipe at left for Fermented Honey Garlic! __ Do a “weekly reset” – do some cleaning and get tedious tasks out of the way. Try our Citrus Peel All-Purpose Cleaner recipe!

CITRUS PEEL ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER

1. Save the peels from your citrus fruit (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.) 2. Submerge peels completely in white vinegar (5% acidity) in a glass jar

3. Soak the citrus peels in vinegar in a jar in your fridge for 2 weeks 4. Strain out and compost the peels 5. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts water and your citrus vinegar 6. Use to clean any and all surfaces around your home * NOTE: always use white vinegar with 5% acidity or less.* See more citrus ideas at lindenfern.com/blog/saveyourcitrus

Check out past Inspire(d) mental health articles at iloveinspired.com for tips on engaging mindfulness in your life. __ Practice mindfulness __ If your cup is full or overflowing, share the love and care with others __ Remember…

LOVE YOURSELF - YOU ARE WORTHY!

Lynsey (Christensen) Moritz is a Decorah native who is based in rural Southwest Wisconsin. She is a freelance writer, graphic designer, and budding herbalist. Lynsey enjoys learning new skills, traveling with her husband, and being a part of this incredible Driftless community!

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

Decorah Public Library and Inspire(d) are here to help you

Adult Books

Youth Books

DUSK NIGHT DAWN

THE WILD ROBOT

As Lamott says, “We begin by accepting our flaws and embracing our humanity.”

When Roz the robot washes up on the shore of a remote island, she realizes that her only hope for survival is to adapt to her surroundings and learn from the island’s unwelcoming animal inhabitants.

by Anne Lamott

HOW ARE YOU REALLY? by Jenna Kutcher

It’s time to ask yourself the question you’ve been avoiding: How are you, really? It’s time to find your answer, and start living.

by Peter Brown

REPEAT AFTER ME

by Jazmyn Simon and Dule Hill

Every child, no matter their age, needs to know how loved they are and, more importantly, should love themselves SAY SOMETHING

THE CREATIVE ACT by Rick Rubin

Everyone is creative and has the tools and resources to create. We just need to learn how to practice them!

by Peter H. Reynolds

If you have a brilliant idea...say something! If you see an injustice...say something! I AM EVERY GOOD THING by Derrick Barnes

FATTY FATTY BOOM BOOM by Rabia Chaudry

For anyone who has been weighed down by their weight – whatever it is – Chaudry shows us how freeing it is to finally make peace with the body we have. BRAVING THE WILDERNESS by Brene Brown

“True belonging doesn’t require us to change who we are. It requires us to be who we are.”

TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS by Cheryl Strayed

Lean into the hard, difficult, messy parts of life. Let Dear Sugar teach you how.

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

Slow down and really look and listen when someone tells you – and shows you – who they are. There are superheroes in our midst!

Check out all of these and more at:

MAKE IT: Affirmation

Make your own Deck of Affirmation Cards! We created two sheets to get you started & included a blank sheet so you can write your own! On those days you’re needing a little reminder of your awesomeness, just pull a card from the deck and read it aloud! You are doing great!

CARDS! Affirmation card graphics by Lynsey D. Moritz

step-by-step instructions at

ILOVEINSPIRED.COM

Paper Project! 53

SUM BUSINESS OF YOUR

INSPIRING ENTREPRENEURS IN THE DRIFTLESS

JESS REDISKE of The new Red-Roxy space on Short Street in Decorah has easier parking and accessibility, plus large windows and ample space for lots of fabric and quilts. / Photos by Aryn Henning Nichols

www.davekelly.com DECORAH, IOWA 563-382-8406

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

INTRODUCTION & INTERVIEW BY ARYN HENNING NICHOLS

5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Sleeps up to 13. Perfect for gatherings & retreats!

redsretreatdecorah.com • 602 W Water St • 563-380-5772

he stars were aligned when Jess Rediske founded Red-Roxy Quilt Co. with her mom, Roxanne Schnitzler, in 2012. From an off-the-cuff horoscope promising an upcoming business venture to a serendipitous email saying the previous local quilt shop was planning to sell, the time felt just right to launch this new venture. Plus, crafting is a life-long love for both. During their first nine years of business in their Downtown Decorah location, the daughter-and-mother duo shared that passion on the daily, building Red-Roxy up to triple its original size, with everything from fabric to tools to classes and more. “We try to carry a nice mix of everything quilting and sewing related,” Jess says. “A variety of styles and designs of quilting cottons, flannel, minky/cuddle, etc. Notions, rulers, scissors, and quilting trinkets, if you will. And a full line of BERNINA and Bernette quilting, sewing, and machine embroidery machines. We also offer a calendar chock-full of classes, with a mix of machine owner mastery classes, project-based classes, classes on clothing alterations, and of course beginning quilting.” All this growth led to some big changes. Roxie was ready to retire early 2022, so Jess bought out her half, and not long after, a larger, better-situated space came up for sale. Jess and her husband took another leap and moved Red-Roxy to its new location on Short Street in Decorah, opening the new doors in February of 2023. Continued on next page

WE ARE PROUD TO PARTNER WITH LOCAL FARMERS AND ARTISANS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

117 WEST WATER ST. DECORAH, IOWA

Wed-Sat: 5pm-close. www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com Reservations highly recommended. 563-382-9463

Purl Up & Knit for a Spell Yarn, Knitting & Fiber Art Supplies, Classes, & More! Hours: Tues–Sat 10am to 4pm • Sun 12 to 4pm 300 W. Water St. Decorah, Iowa

blueheronknittery.com

563-517-1059 • store@blueheronknittery.com

iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

Red-Roxy carries a full line of BERNINA and Bernette quilting, sewing, and machine embroidery machines. / Photo by Aryn Henning Nichols. Opposite page: Jess Rediske and her husband, Eric. / Photo courtesy Jess Rediske

Empty Nest Winery

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS, WISHING YOU A

Merry CHRISTMAS!

December: Sat 10-5. Sun 1-5. Closed January 1 through February 15 After Feb 15: Sat 10-5. Sun 1-5.

Upcoming Events

December: Holiday wines & sangrias available all month – Berrylicious, Seduction, Coffee Port, Private Reserve wines, & more!

Great Venue for your next event!

Like us for details!

New Years Eve Murder Mystery: Enjoy professional Dinner Theater with Prime Rib & Seafood Alfredo dinner! 5 pm Tickets at eventbrite.com. February 16-18: 13th Annual

Blind Wine Tasting!

Come taste all our new wines & ciders & vote on your favorites - details on Facebook. emptynestwinery.com • 563-568-2758 56

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

1253 Apple Rd. Waukon, Iowa

The gorgeous space is light and airy and encourages folks to linger (the fully stocked beverage station and coffee bar doesn’t hurt either). Customers coming in for that “one piece of fabric” will likely leave with a handful of other fun things as well. Luckily, winter is the perfect time to snuggle in with a project – something Jess enjoys herself. “My mom has passed on her love of machine embroidery to me, so I enjoy making (and gifting) in-the-hoop projects,” Jess says. “I also cherish our long weekend quilt retreats with my two best friends. I mean sewing, laughing, cocktails, and girl time? What beats that?!?!” Jess and her husband offer a space perfect for just such a retreat. In addition to Red-Roxy Quilt Co, the Rediske’s own Red’s Retreat & Guesthouse, a retreat house/Airbnb rental located near Downtown Decorah. For quilters, there’s a 1,100-squarefoot space that comfortably fits up to 13 quilters on individual tables. Jess has advice for people just getting started in the quilting and sewing craft-arena as well: “Find a beginner class or hook up with a friend who knows how to sew / quilt and start there,” Jess says. “And remember, nothing is ever perfect. I’m team done-is-better-thanperfect. Find things that you enjoy doing and find the time to do it. Creating by sewing and quilting is a form of therapy and is so good for the soul. Start small. There’s satisfaction to quick, easy projects that don’t take a ton of time!” The Basics: Name: Jessica (Jess) Rediske Age: 42 Business: Red-Roxy Quilt Co Year Business Established: 2012 Business address: 804 Short St, Decorah Website: redroxyquiltco.com Tell us about the “leap” moment. When/how did you decide to jump in and become your own boss? In the fall of 2012, Roxie, my mom and previous business partner – now retired – was on medical leave from her job as the Assistant Jail administrator for Winneshiek County. One fateful day she was sitting in the chair at the salon and the girls were reading their horoscopes. Roxie, not being very superstitious, said sure, read hers. “A business venture will be heading your way soon.” That night when she got home, the first email in her inbox was from Pine Needles saying they were putting the Decorah store up for sale. She excitedly called me right away, as she’s always dreamed of owning a “fabric store.” I was sitting at a high school volleyball game and said, “Let’s check it out!” Continued on next page

OPEN Tues - Fri 10-6 Sat 10-1

Keepsake Ornaments

Finish up your holiday shopping here! We’ll be open Sundays 11-2 until Dec 23rd We’ll be off to Market CLOSED Jan 14-22, 2024 EVENTS in 2024 Valentines Feb 14th ChickFest ‘24 April 6th visit our Facebook for more event details!

You'll find the destination is worth the journey every time for amazing Home Décor - Iowa Wines Fashions Accessories Gifts - Cards -Wrap Personalized Engraving any occasion - any age

413 N MAIN STREET CHARLES CITY, IA 641-228-2657

An Art Experience Shop a Unique Collection of Local Art. Check online for Fun Art Classes: www.plumcreekart.org Thurs & Fri 12-4pm • Sat 10am-2pm • Sun 1-4pm 115 W Main St. Fredericksburg, IA • 563-412-6000 iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

DELIVERY AVAILABLE!

MABE’S PIZZA

FAMOUS PIZZA

Learn more at redroxyquiltco.com

FUN & CASUAL ATMOSPHERE Serving pizza for mabespizza.com ï order online mabesonline.com 70+ years!

110 East Water St 563-382-4297

Decorah • Waukon • New Hampton

strength in numbers with a personal touch Tax • Assurance • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Consulting www.hackernelson.cpa

GIVING LOCAL IS WHAT WE DO!

Depot Outlet

A Thrift Store for All DONATE SHOP REUSE

All profits are donated to Winneshiek County nonprofit organizations

Mon-Fri 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 3

563-382-2700 • 510 Montgomery St, Decorah, IA www.depotoutlet.org or find us on Facebook

Committed TO YOU

The Red-Roxy classroom is situated along the back wall of the new space, with ample room for students and machines, and a set-up for virtual classes as well. / Photos by Aryn Henning Nichols

On December 31, 2012, Roxie and I signed on the dotted line and Red-Roxy Quilt Co was formed. Red, for my last name Rediske, and of course Roxy is for Roxie. For the next nine years, we worked in tandem to more than triple the size of Red-Roxy. Roxie was our creative genius, and I, having worked at a local bank in the lending department for eight years, focused on the business-end as well as being the technician for sewing machine maintenance and repair. On January 1, 2022, Roxie semi-retired and I bought out her half. Roxie still teaches and is found working a few days a week. Later that year, the opportunity came up for my husband Eric and I to purchase a new location for the shop and we jumped at it. On February 16, 2023, Red-Roxy Quilt Co. opened its doors at our new location. It has easier accessibility and parking, about 500 additional square feet, tons of natural light, with high ceilings to display quilts in full, and a beautiful, dedicated classroom space for teaching not only in-person but virtually as well. What’s the best thing about being your own boss?

Home Health Nursing

Happy Feet Clinic

Public Health Services Homemaking Services

Personal Cares Vaccinations

Smith Building, 305 Montgomery St. Ste. #3, Decorah, Iowa

www.winneshiekhealth.org • 563-382-4662

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

I love the flexibility being an owner gives. Not that I get to come and go as I please, but I can work longer hours some days to be able to take other days off as I see fit. It’s also so rewarding to look back and see where we have come from to where we are now as a business. How about the worst? Waking up at any and all hours of the night with business things on my mind!

Was there ever a hurdle where you just thought, “I can’t do this?” How did you overcome it? Oh gosh I think there probably has been many over the years but having a good work ethic and surrounding myself with good staff and my “circle” to help talk me through things and off ledges has been huge! And the quickest way to get things done is to just do it! Any mentors/role models you look to/have looked to?

INSPIRED GENEROSITY

Helping people create charitable connections to the causes they love. Let us help inspire your generosity in your community.

I’m blessed to have the former Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce director Kristina Wiltgen as not only my best friend but now my marketing guru. Remember that ledge I need talking off occasionally? She’s brilliant with great ideas that I respect in many different aspects of my retail business and in life. What’s the one thing you wish you had known before you started?

Contact Roger Huinker Charitable Advisor 563-380-1500 cell winneshiekccf.org

Friendly, local faces

Serving you for more than 25 years

Mom and I seriously jumped in blind. I would have never thought how much behind-the-scenes work there is to owning a retail business. I kinda thought we’d just get to help the customers pick out beautiful fabric or find the perfect sewing machine. Little did I know there would be inventory management, accounts payable, bookkeeping, ordering, sales tax, marketing, etc. that would also need to get done! I pretty much spend my days behind a computer. Getting to help customers is always a bright spot in my day. How do you manage your life/work balance? I like to say work hard, play harder. It’s all about time management and allowing myself to take the personal time I need away from the business. Scheduling days to work from home has been a good way to help keep the balance. I also believe putting your own personal health and wellness as a priority trickles down to everything else you do in life. Eating well, physical activity, fresh air, and the occasional cocktail or glass of wine are my keys!

321 W Water St. Decorah, IA • 563-387-0191 • www.vikingstatebank.com

Quality homes built with simplicity & certainty

What keeps you inspired? Any quotes that keep you going? We are fortunate to have a BERNINA sewing machine convention on an annual basis, as well as a quilt market once a year that provides lots of inspiration and continuing education. Also forging strong relationships with our vendors that I can lean on for ideas and support when I need. Mom embroidered me a sign early on in our venture: Put on your big girl panties & deal with it. I’m a firm believer that I can’t make employees do things that I wouldn’t do.

www.kellybuilding.com

1870 Highway 9 East. Decorah, IA. 563-382-8406 iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

Only 30 minutes away from Decorah, this full-service community offers a variety of great dining options, unique antiques, gift shops and exciting recreational opportunities.

Discover Harmony, Minnesota 50 Industrial Blvd. NE, Harmony, MN

BOUTIQUE & CONSIGNMENT GIFTS • VINTAGE • HOME DECOR CONSIGNMENT CLOTHING & OTHER GOODS 65

130+ Booths • 10,000 sq feet Open Daily 10am-5pm

Consign with us! Learn more at www.shopbeebalm.com facebook.com/BeeBalmHarmony

@beebalm_harmony

Best 20 feet of bar in SE MN!

On The Crunchy Side AMERICAN BAR & EATERY 31 Main Ave N • Harmony, MN From burgers to salads to steak dinner, served with homemade bread. Plus tasty pizzas, soups, & chili!

507-886-6660 • newgenerationsofharmony.com

Takeout available!

507-886-5560

/onthecrunchyside

Wed-Fri 4pm-1am • Sat 11am-1am • Sun 11am-12am

See you this season! Holidays in Harmony

Wednesday, December 13 • 5:30–8pm Downtown Harmony • Shop locally – Harmony businesses open late! • Free popcorn & claymation Christmas movies at JEM Theatre

At the Visitors Center •Free horse drawn wagon rides by Hanson Horse Farm • S'mores station & bonfire • Kids crafts by Fillmore Central ECFE • Blitzen the reindeer from Christmas Creek Traditions Farms

Winter in Harmony

•Check out great local restaurants • Fun shopping on Main Street and beyond • Snowshoe the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail • Enjoy local spirits & beer • Perfect for a weekend getaway or day trip!

Plan your next visit at exploreharmony.com or by calling 1-877-251-0606

JOIN THE POSITIVE NEWS MOVEMENT

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GET (OR GIFT) INSPIRE(D) MAGAZINE IN THE MAIL... IT’LL MAKE YOU WAY HAPPIER THAN THIS SNOW WOMAN, FOUR TIMES A YEAR!

iloveinspired.com/membership

Thanks for your support! iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

TAKING A LIKIN’ TO LICHEN BY CRAIG THOMPSON • ARTWORK BY MARY THOMPSON

Story on next page iloveinspired.com \ Winter 2023-24

TAKING A LIKIN’ personal, affordable style 802 Short St. Decorah 563.382.5592 402 Rossville Rd. Waukon 563.568.3130 Up to $2000 rebate on Café appliance packages

jwkitchens.com

TO LICHEN

Even the most unobtrusive forms of life are essential for a healthy planet.

BY CRAIG THOMPSON • ARTWORK BY MARY THOMPSON Photo by Chip Peterson

iowafoodhub.com Online farmers market all year long. Pick-up sites in Decorah, West Union, Postville, Calmar and Waukon.

ca We’ll take

re of it!

l h a d e k l Fo ce Servi

Pick up & delivery available 563-382-4010 • 563-380-5851 501 MONTGOMERY ST. DECORAH, IA 64

Winter 2023-24 / iloveinspired.com

ou may have passed them untold times without noticing, even during the dead of winter. They speckle tombstones, spatter rocks, and encrust screen door hinges. Often flat, always sedentary and silent, lichen are inherently inconspicuous. They are among nature’s most mysterious organisms. Neither fully plant nor completely fungus, lichen are biological composites. Their components – fungus and algae – are wed in a mutually beneficial (symbiotic) relationship. Photosynthetic algae live within the outer skin of the fungus. In exchange for housing, they pay rent in the form of carbohydrates and vitamins needed by the host fungus. Lichen are rootless, anchoring to stationary substrates with thin fungal threads known as rhizines. A rootless existence enables them to grow almost anywhere – on tree trunks, leaves, rocks, fence posts, and even the fender of your uncle’s rusting Edsel. But life without roots is not without hazards. Lichen are prone to desiccation. They rely on atmospheric water, mostly rain and fog, to stay hydrated. Despite relative anonymity, lichen are ubiquitous, found throughout the world in a variety of habitats ranging from frigid Arctic tundra to rain drenched tropical forests. In arid environments, they partner with fungi, mosses, and bacteria to create a brittle, living veneer that sits astride sandy soils. Biotic crusts, as they are known, are essential for soil stability and health. Although able to withstand the elements, they are highly susceptible to physical impacts like foot trampling. Once disturbed, biotic crusts need years to recover. Lichenologists (yes, it’s an actual profession) have identified more than 18,000 varieties of lichen. Since many are superficially similar, genetic analysis is used to differentiate them. It is now thought as many as 250,000 species may exist. In stable environments lichen are long-lived, persisting for decades or even centuries. Longevity combined with the ability to absorb atmospheric particles, including pollutants like sulfur, mercury, and nitrogen, make them important indicators of air quality. The National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service use lichen as biomonitors. Deteriorating air quality is often reflected in slow growth or even the demise of key species. Lichen are nibbled by a variety of organisms. They are a menu staple for many insects, including grasshoppers, and provide

important dietary supplements for red-backed voles and flying squirrels. Several species are considered essential winter forage for reindeer. Earth tone lichen are favored by many species of birds as nesting material. The reason? Nests flecked by gray and green are well camouflaged, concealing edible eggs and vulnerable young. Hummingbirds are particularly adept at shingling their tiny, spider silk nests with lichen bits to keep jelly-bean sized babies safe and sound. Simple shapes belie lichens’ complex chemistry. More than 700 organic compounds have been isolated from their tissues. Unique chemical signatures help distinguish similar species. Other compounds impart bright colors – red, yellow, and orange – to lichen species historically used by indigenous people as dyes for clothing and cultural ceremonies. A handful of compounds even exhibit promise as antibiotics. There is much we don’t know about the mysterious lives of lichen. Unlocking their secrets leads to understanding, appreciation, and the recognition that even the most unobtrusive forms of life are essential for a healthy planet. What’s not to lichen about that?

Mary and Craig Thompson live adjacent to a lovely woods north of La Crosse. They’ve been Driftless dwellers for more than 35 years. Much like the lichen dappling their backyard trees, they are symbionts, although considerably more energetic than their small, sessile neighbors.

Burgers. Sandwiches. Salads. Appetizers Great Wings. Best Bloody Mary’s in Town!

LOCAL INGREDIENTS • 22 BEERS ON TAP!

PRIVATE EVENT VENUES 2 amazing spaces. Small or large events. Delicious in-house catering.

206 W. Water St. Decorah 563-382-5970 For current hours & menu visit

tbocks.com

Solar Financing so Great it Must be Powered by the

See your banker for up to 100% financing! www.kerndtbrothers.com

PROBITUARY – A NOTICE OF LIFE!

Walter Langland

Interviewed by family friend Heidi Ludeking

Walter Langland served in both WWII and the Korean War. Interviewer Heidi Ludeking had the privilege of spending time with Walt in 2016 when she chaperoned him and her father on an Honor Flight for Veterans to the monuments in Washington DC. During World War II, Walt worked in Italy typing up transfer orders for people and objects from one base to another and to get servicemen back home. He worked stateside during the Korean War, processing mail. It was on that trip that Heidi learned of Walt’s contributions of service not only to his country through his time in the Army, but also to his community when he returned. His 40 consecutive years of elected office included the Iowa Legislature, the first Decorah Community School District board following its reorganization, Farm Bureau, the Board of Supervisors, and the Hospital Board. Alongside these posts, he also served as superintendent of Sunday School at Highland Lutheran Church and sang in a Barbershop Quartet, enjoying the close harmony of the group. He grew up on the home farm just outside Spring Grove, Minnesota, where his son, Steve, still farms. Walter and his family were stewards of their land, receiving the State of Iowa Soil Conservation award for six miles of terracing on the farm, and their strip and contour practices in 1978. In 2027, it will become a Heritage Farm, being held by the Langland family for 150 years. Walt was born on the farm in 1927, the youngest of nine children, and was actively helping on the farm until he turned 94. Walter married his high school sweetheart, Adeline Lovsteun, in 1950. This year, Walt celebrated his 96th birthday and they celebrated 73 years of marriage. What’s the best advice anyone ever gave you? My mom always said not to smoke and to respect others. That matches a life philosophy I later read, “What maintains one vice would bring up two children.” What’s your advice to others? Be friendly but be cautious about who you are real friends with. Choose friends that enjoy your lifestyle. What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a civil engineer. After I graduated from Luther College with a degree in math, science and physical education, I was going to go to Iowa State University to study engineering, but I joined my brother on the farm instead. I spent my first few years teaching and working on the farm until it became too much, and I left teaching. Try to describe yourself in one sentence. I enjoy seeing people and talking to them.

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If you could eat one thing every day for the rest of your life, what would it be? I enjoy my time at Mabe’s, Family Table, and Culvers, as a way to get out and see people and enjoy time with friends. I usually see someone I know or recognize. Walter has had Guardian Angels protecting him though life. He shares more about his experiences here: My first Guardian Angel ensured I returned safely from service in Italy. I wanted to fly back to the US but was denied and had to type up my own orders to return home by ship, a six-day trip I had encountered before and did not want to repeat. The plane I would have taken home never arrived stateside, crashing in the Alps on its way to Germany. The second was on my honeymoon with Addie to Niagara Falls. We were out in a boat and the motor was not latched properly and fell into the water. I could have fallen in or tipped the boat trying to grab it in the middle of the lake. We were not swimmers, and that Guardian Angel was keeping us in the boat. My third time was on the farm when the silo loader malfunctioned. My yells were heard by a contractor on the farm to turn off the loader just in time. What advice would you give to a teenager who is making decisions about studying and college? Pick a career that you could continue to use in some way for the rest of your life. Even after you are married and raise a family.

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