Author: Jillesa Shotts

January 13, 2021

“Start where you are, use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe.

Today’s article is not about tennis, but I think this pro athlete’s quote is fitting for many facets of our lives. Especially as one can be tempted these days to feel overwhelmed by the COVID climate. I hope via this article to give you a few minutes to just breathe…and then maybe spark your creativity right where you are. There...

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December 2, 2020

Power of Expression

As you’ve heard me say before I love words. I love reading them and writing them. Language intrigues me, but more than that I think it is communication that is so fascinating. From the various spoken languages around the globe to the dawn of ASL, from expressionism to impressionism, from telegraph to telephone people have found ways to communicate.  (Technology...

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November 4, 2020

It’s Purely Patrick!

Small, personal businesses are part of the heart of America. It is after all the “the land of opportunity.” Perhaps now, more than ever, people are recognizing the value of small business and the need to support them. Small businesses are born at the intersection of creativity, ingenuity, and passion. Purely Patrick is one such Vermont, thriving business.   Purely...

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August 19, 2020

Closer: One Page at a Time

Sure quarantine might have allowed you to grab your books a little tighter and sink in a little deeper (if the news channel was turned off) but the isolation is maybe getting to you. You’re starting to feel like the somber, lonely tick of the second hand on your wall clock; but what can be done? When all the social...

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July 1, 2020

Let’s Go to the School of Strength

I don’t know about you but these days being a homebody means I’m a whole lot more sedentary than usual. We’ve had some really gorgeous weather days that gave me the opportunity to get out in my yard for a bit of a walk but what about extra blazing hot days? I know the weather sometimes has me ducking indoors...

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June 10, 2020

Let’s Commit to Fit Pennsylvania!

COVID-19 might have suspended Special Olympics’ events but Pennsylvanians do not let that keep them down. SOPA (Special Olympics Pennsylvania) launched a virtual workout program called Commit to Fit. Athletes, volunteers, supporters, everyone can stay active together, though we’re social distancing, via the daily workout videos. You’re invited and encouraged to follow along on any of their social media channels...

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December 18, 2019

It’s a Doggie World

I recently discovered the Wisconsin based company, Gracie’s Doggie Delights. Having an adorable, rambunctious pup of my own, I was intrigued to sniff out what the buzz was about. As the name suggests, this company is all about making delicious treats for our furry buddies but what sets them apart is their commitment to be all USA product, all the...

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November 6, 2019

The Art of Sensitivity

Story. Dance. Music. Art enriches our lives so much and it is for me a great bonding opportunity. I believe stories are meant to be shared and it is in the sharing that somehow people find common ground and understanding. Have you ever been to the ballet? I’ve only gone once but that day stands out to me as a...

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September 18, 2019

To Ride is to Breathe

The sunshine, beauty, adventure, freedom…these are a few of the things my best friend told me were grand about riding horses. I have yet to try it out but it got me thinking and wondering how many people out there have had the pleasure of riding a horse? How many people have not attempted because they didn’t know it was...

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June 12, 2019

Zoo Senses Public Needs

One in five people have a disability in the United States of America, with 84% affected by sensory processing issues. People on the Autism Spectrum make up a large portion of those facing sensory sensitivity. That’s staggering, especially, when you consider all that sensory processing issues affects.  What can our communities do to help include people dealing with such sensitivities?...

Categories Community/General