The Secret Recipe to Reaching “The ‘I’m Possible’ Goal of Empowering a Billion Women by 2020”

Technology and women go hand in hand. Leveraging the incredible power of technology to inspire women entrepreneurs will lead them along a path to success. 

Empowering a Billion Women by 2020 (EBW2020) is the vision of one woman, Ingrid Vanderveldt, Entrepreneur-In-Residence, Dell Inc. Her life's work — focused on getting the tools, technology, and resources into the hands of women around the world through three channels — business, policy, and media is quite ambitious and to be applauded. I am excited and energized to take part in her mission.

It's this shared vision that I pledge my commitment to women’s success worldwide. It's also because of this that I discovered the wonderful organization, the UN Foundation, with a specific focus on women and girls issues worldwide. 

At the core of EBW2020 is technology: the key enabler, escalator, and connector to success via the accessibility to everything it provides.  The secret to realizing this goal:  getting a smartphone into the hands of every woman. Getting smartphones into the hands of women around the world, we can inspire, educate, connect, and empower women as successful leaders and entrepreneurs. Smartphone access, when combined with education around financial literacy and mentoring is the secret to getting our global economy turned around.

I hope you will think about the ways that you, too, can harness the power of technology to help all women around the world prosper. Below are ways that you can begin, both with technology and also in a practical manner.

You can find out and become part of the EBW2020 vision at www.ebw2020.com.

Support Mobile Currency Vehicles

Mobile money is becoming the method of choice for purchasing and payments globally. Africa is leading the way in mobile payments with the launch of programs like M-Pesa. This Summer, EBW2020.com will be announcing a partnership with an organization that allows people in developed worlds to load, or “top off” phones for those in the developing worlds (ideal for families/diaspora who come to work in the States and send money back to their home countries). Stay tuned at ebw2020.com for more details.

Donate Used Cell Phones

Often times, individuals in developing countries are not able to purchase cell phones to be able to even participate in the types of programs mentioned above. Now, there are solutions to be able to get those old phones into the hands of people needing them the most like medical providers and emergency services. You can support places like hopephones.org AND MedicMobile.org by donating your old phones.

Become a Mentor

With the unrivaled connectability the Internet provides, we have the option to learn and teach with millions at our fingertips. Find a woman entrepreneur—or a group—and set up monthly webinars, hangouts, etc. to open up a global platform for best practice sharing and lessons learned. 

Explore Emerging Markets

Some of the cities with the most technology-heavy, entrepreneurial action are outside Silicon Valley and the U.S. all together. Explore and consider launching your next tech endeavor abroad, including the help of the local, talented women entrepreneurs. You can find programs to be involved with through places including: The UN Foundation, Springboard Enterprises, The Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network, and the Kauffman Foundation.

Spread the Word

Media is a tremendously powerful vehicle. With the plethora of news apps, there are numerous articles, blogs, and videos posted daily highlighting some of the most incredible women entrepreneurs and their businesses. Help be a messenger and change-agent by reposting, sharing, and providing them visibility.

Support Women-Owned/Launched Products and Services

Chances are, a combination of software, apps, hardware, and services is the recipe to success in your business. Explore the women-owned/launched options first and make it a point to always diversify your options to truly support women entrepreneurs.

Open Your Resources Up

Chances are your company has an arsenal of resources that can propel small businesses. Create a dialogue and a win-win, focusing on women-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs and see the incredible opportunities it opens up for both.

If you’re inspired to join along on this journey towards a global sustainable future, sign up for updates and stay connected at www.ebw2020.com, and become part of this adventure!

Relevant Numbers

“70% of new businesses are started by women. 91% of women say advertisers don’t understand them”  FORBES 

“When women are aware your company supports women owned businesses, 79% would try your products & services. 80% of women solidify their loyalty to brands that support them.” Trendwatching 

“92% of women pass along information they find about deals to others.” Ogilvy & Mather

Women are the primary buyers for computers, cars, banking, financial services, and a lot of other big-ticket categories. Primetime Women 

“Over the next decade, women will control two thirds of consumer wealth in the United States and be the beneficiaries of the largest transference of wealth in our country’s history. Estimates range from $12 to $40 trillion." FleshmanHillard

In the U.S., women oversee 80% of consumer spending, totaling $3.7 trillion. They control more than $20 trillion or about 70% of global consumer spending. JCDecaux MallScape, Market Week, & Boston Consulting Group

Unbowed In The Protection Of Mother Earth

We all realize that environmental conservation is so much more than a hot topic and requires true global connectivity to help protect and restore our planet’s precious resources.  

Environmental conservation is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and has become especially pertinent in recent years due to concerns about global warming and the necessity for clean, renewable energy resources. The impact (either good or bad) that we have on the environment today is making a big difference on the world of future generations. It’s our responsibility to care for our planet and ensure the future well-being of all living things. If we can get to the point where we are living sustainably and technology is providing the majority of our resource needs, things will be a lot different. There will be fewer wars, fewer poor and starving, less threat of species extinction, and most importantly we’ll be creating a way of life that can continue indefinitely. To me that’s a big prize for acting in an environmentally conscious way; for the betterment of society today and for a strong and sustainable society of the future.

As I think back to my most treasured visit to Africa, specifically Kenya and Tanzania, I often wonder what this world would look like without the majestic animals and the beautiful landscape of sub-saharan Africa along with other ecologies around the world I’ve experienced through my extensive travels. It would be a world I most definitely would not want to live in. 

Climate change is an urgent threat caused by humans that must be addressed immediately before it’s too late. Burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas, to generate energy has the greatest impact on the atmosphere than any other single human activity. 

To adequately address the climate crisis we must urgently reduce carbon pollution and prepare for the consequences of global warming, which the world is already experiencing. To avoid the worst consequences of climate change, we need to dramatically reduce the world’s carbon emissions. But we must also prepare for the significant changes in weather that the world is presently experiencing because of the pollution already in the atmosphere. Communities and governments need to work together in transitioning toward 100% renewable energy and implement practical measures that improve air quality and protect water supplies.

Protecting our forests, home to many of the world’s most endangered wildlife, is also a significant action that will help fight climate change. If we protect our forests, rather than destroy them, they will protect the planet by absorbing carbon dioxide, which is a major source of pollution that causes climate change. 

Additionally, governments must play a central role in tackling the climate crisis. Governments must invest, support, and encourage clean energy technology, and lead the way by creating environmentally conscious legislation. 

And finally, businesses have a responsibility to reduce their contribution to climate change by incorporating policies and effective ways of doing business that meet goals to reduce carbon emissions while sustaining their core business.

Now on a personal level, in order to help meet the demands of environmental conservation here are a few things we can all do in order to reduce our carbon footprint and in exchange, if enough of us adopt this sustainable way of living, can stop climate change altogether. I know these are ideas we’ve all heard of before but it certainly is a reminder that even small changes in our daily habits can make a positive impact on caring for mother nature.

1. Invest in a car with better fuel economy, purchase a hybrid, electric or hydrogen fuel  cell car.
2. We can simply take public transit, bike more, or walk more. Afterall, this is of course good for our health as well. 
3. We can help with reforestation by planting trees. 
4. Where possible we can use alternative energy, such as solar power, wave power, wind power, hydroelectricity, biofuel, and hydrogen power (just to name a few). In other words we need to conserve our energy – use energy more efficiently and only use it when needed. 
5. Buy appliances that have a good Energy Star rating.
6. Use energy efficient lightbulbs.
7. We can buy food locally and organic food (or both). This is known as a low carbon diet and it not only promotes your health but supports local economies as well.
8. We could reduce our meat consumption and eat more plant-based foods. Large amounts of carbon dioxide are released as a result of the meat industry. This is mainly done through the deforestation of forests in order to create livestock fields, producing the meat itself and transporting it. Switching to a mainly plant-based diet is good for our own health as much as it is for the planet.
9. The 3R’s – REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE
10. Composting is a great way of helping local farms and gardens while preventing global warming. In fact, compost can be rich in nutrients and is used in landscaping as well. It is also important for organic farming.
11. We are our choices. What we choose to buy is what we choose to support. Be conscious about supporting companies that make and obtain products in ways that help to stabilize the environment not destroy it. Give those organizations your full support.
12. Get involved with your local government asking them to take action on environmental initiatives in your community. Speaking of voting, if a political party does not make climate change one of its top priorities, we should not vote for them.
13. Finally, spread the word. Share information about our planetary crisis. Raise your voice.

For a visually inspiring look at more ways we can help make a difference, here’s a link to a great printable and sharable idea guide that I just love. Place it on your refrigerator and Go Green! http://www.50waystohelp.com

One final thought … when I reflect on the importance of protecting Mother Earth, my thoughts immediately drift to Dr. Wangari Maathai, the first African Woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize for the creation of The Greenbelt Movement, an organization that taught Africa’s most impoverished that if we truly care for Mother Earth, she will take care of us. Nobel Laureate Dr. Maathai was unbowed in her conviction to care for our planet. Her insight is one we should all applaud and seek to emulate in our own special and unique way. 

People need nature 

and 

nature needs people to care about it!

Connor and 'Imaginary-Real'

One of the greatest privileges I know is being able to spend time with a very special 10-year-old boy, my friend Connor. You see, Connor is an extraordinary and unique growing young man who sees the world and the wonderment that exists in it, the way that I hope to, and unfortunately, in a manner in which as adults, we find easy to forget - how magical this planet really is. Funny that a 10-year-old boy equipped with a sensational imagination and a heart so pure and true is a beacon of humanity’s potential at its best. I am reminded often that mankind’s pursuit to enrich our condition is fostered in the ‘imaginary-real’ that exists in all of us. The challenge we all too often have is when we fail to recognize and embrace the ‘imaginary-real’ magic that exists within each of our hearts. 

And so to you Connor, I would like to thank you for being the incredibly cool, young man you are growing up to be; you are what is right about the world to me! Never forget the gentleness and kindness of your heart and spirit, that of which is the most powerful and important part of who you are.

Connor, you will go on to do great things, as long as you embrace your kind and gentle ways. There may be times that it does not appear to be easy – each person faces their own challenges – but overcoming them makes us that much better of a person, and so, you too, will face challenges in your life that you will have to learn to overcome. In fact, when we overcome challenges (like doing math) life becomes more fun! 

In reality, the biggest blessing about my friendship with Connor is that his world opens mine up to a more colorful world. I have a deep appreciation for the way in which he sees things. Like everyone on the face of the earth, we are people, with a mix of strengths and weaknesses… here are just some of the positive personality traits I recognize in Connor and ones in which I hope we’ll all try to emulate:

Connor Is Reliable
Connor doesn’t have hidden agendas. He will tell it like it is. What you see is what you get, and what you hear is what he means. He is wired to be more comfortable by himself. Because of not feeling the need for social contact as strongly as other individuals, he is able to select honest, genuine, and dependable persons like himself, who share his interests, to be his friend. That is pretty cool. 

Connor Has Unique Perspectives
Although Connor may struggle with seeing the big picture, he is gifted with the ability to focus intently on details of things and situations. Because of this, he is often able to come up with innovative solutions to problems. Since Connor has the ability to focus long and hard on his areas of interest (Legos, Pokemon, animals), I have confidence that one day as an adult he will make great academic and scientific strides for the greater good of society.

Connor Holds No Prejudice
Perhaps because Connor knows what it is like to be unique, he tends to be more accepting of others. He is more focused on people’s behavior, versus on hierarchies or social position. He can teach the rest of the world a lot about accepting people for who they are, rather than pre-judging others. We should all learn from this. 

Connor Has High Integrity
Connor is conscientious and diligent and dedicated to whatever it is he is working on. He may need initial instruction, support, and coaching, but once he is situated, he is enormously productive and loyal to completing the task or project. I see this firsthand when I have the opportunity of being his ‘Lego Builder Helper’ when we work on constructing a new Lego set together. I am usually awe-inspired by his commitment to finishing the ‘project’ successfully and completely. Yet again… super cool!

Connor Is Extremely Intelligent and has Strong Perseverance
Connor has a very active and curious mind. When it comes to his particular interests, it’s not hard to see how tenacious he is in pursuing them. This is a very strong combination that he benefits from now but always will throughout all stages of his life.

Connor is Honest and True to His Word
To Connor truth is truth – his word is the real deal. Like it or not. ☺

Connor Lives in the Moment
How often do typical people fail to notice what's in front of their eyes because they're distracted by everything around them? Connor truly uses all his senses to be ‘in the moment’ with astute mindfulness.

Connor is Passionate
Connor is truly passionate about the things, ideas and people in his life. And that is contagious! 

Connor Has Terrific Memory
How often do typical people forget directions, or fail to take note of colors, names, and other details? Connor is so much more tuned in to details. He has an amazing memory!

Oh and I forgot to mention one technical fact about Connor … he, like many other amazing individuals I have come to know over the past few years happens to be on the spectrum. As you can see, being on the spectrum happens to have amazing benefits – benefits that we all aspire to have. And as for my very good friend Connnor, what defines him most is the ability to make ‘Imaginary Real’ a reality.

And that, like my friend Connor, is awesome! 

World-Renowned Chef Thomas Keller's Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

 Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Thomas Keller

Artisan

If there’s a better fried chicken, I haven’t tasted it. First, and critically, the chicken is brined for 12 hours in an herb-lemon brine, which seasons the meat and helps it stay juicy. The flour is seasoned with garlic and onion powders, paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper. The chicken is dredged in the seasoned flour, dipped in buttermilk, and then dredged again in the flour. The crust becomes almost feathered and is very crisp.

Fried chicken is a great American tradition that’s fallen out of favor. A taste of this, and you will want it back in your weekly routine.

And for those of you not familiar with who Thomas Keller is, he is an American chef, restauranteur, and cookbook writer. He and his landmark Napa Valley restaurant, The French Laundry in Yountville, CA, have won multiple awards from the James Beard Foundation, notably the Best California Chef in 1996, and the Best Chef in America in 1997. The restaurant is a perennial winner in the annual Restaurant Magazine list of the Top 50 Restaurants of the World.

Ingredients

• Two 2 1/2- to 3-pound chickens (see note on chicken size)

For dredging and frying

• Peanut or canola oil for deep-frying
• 1 quart buttermilk
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For coating

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup garlic powder
• 1/4 cup onion powder
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cayenne
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Ground fleur de sel or fine sea salt
• Rosemary and thyme sprigs for garnish

For the chicken brine

• 5 lemons, halved
• 24 bay leaves
• 1 bunch (4 ounces) flat-leaf parsley
• 1 bunch (1 ounce) thyme
• 1/2 cup clover honey
• 1 head garlic, halved through the equator
• 3/4 cup black peppercorns
• 2 cups (10 ounces) kosher salt, preferably Diamond Crystal
• 2 gallons water

Preparation

For the brine (makes 2 gallons)
The key ingredient here is the lemon, which goes wonderfully with chicken, as do the herbs: bay leaf, parsley and thyme. This amount of brine will be enough for 10 pounds.

Combine all the ingredients in a large pot, cover, and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring to dissolve the salt. Remove from the heat and cool completely, then chill before using. The brine can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

For the chicken
Cut each chicken into 10 pieces: 2 legs, 2 thighs, 4 breast quarters, and 2 wings. Pour the brine into a container large enough to hold the chicken pieces, add in the chicken, and refrigerate for 12 hours (no longer, or the chicken may become too salty).

Remove the chicken from the brine (discard the brine) and rinse under cold water, removing any herbs or spices sticking to the skin. Pat dry with paper towels, or let air-dry. Let rest at room temperature for 1 1/2 hours, or until it comes to room temperature.

If you have two large pots (about 6 inches deep) and a lot of oil, you can cook the dark and white meat at the same time; if not, cook the dark meat first, then turn up the heat and cook the white meat. No matter what size pot you have, the oil should not come more than one-third of the way up the sides of the pot. Fill the pot with at least 2 inches of peanut oil and heat to 320 degrees F.

Set a cooling rack over a baking sheet. Line a second baking sheet with parchment paper.

Meanwhile, combine all the coating ingredients in a large bowl. Transfer half the coating to a second large bowl. Pour the buttermilk into a third bowl and season with salt and pepper. Set up a dipping station: the chicken pieces, one bowl of coating, the bowl of buttermilk, the second bowl of coating, and the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Just before frying, dip the chicken thighs into the first bowl of coating, turning to coat and patting off the excess; dip them into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to run back into the bowl; then dip them into the second bowl of coating. Transfer to the parchment-lined pan.

Carefully lower the thighs into the hot oil. Adjust the heat as necessary to return the oil to the proper temperature. Fry for 2 minutes, then carefully move the chicken pieces around in the oil and continue to fry, monitoring the oil temperature and turning the pieces as necessary for even cooking, for 11 to 12 minutes, until the chicken is a deep golden brown, cooked through, and very crisp. Meanwhile, coat the chicken drumsticks and transfer to the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Transfer the cooked thighs to the cooling rack skin-side-up and let rest while you fry the remaining chicken. (Putting the pieces skin-side-up will allow excess fat to drain, whereas leaving them skin-side-down could trap some of the fat.) Make sure that the oil is at the correct temperature, and cook the chicken drumsticks. When the drumsticks are done, lean them meat-side-up against the thighs to drain, then sprinkle the chicken with fine sea salt.

Turn up the heat and heat the oil to 340 degees F. Meanwhile, coat the chicken breasts and wings. Carefully lower the chicken breasts into the hot oil and fry for 7 minutes, or until golden brown, cooked through, and crisp. Transfer to the rack, sprinkle with salt, and turn skin side up. Cook the wings for 6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the wings to the rack and turn off the heat.

Arrange the chicken on a serving platter. Add the herb sprigs to the oil (which will still be hot) and let them cook and crisp for a few seconds, then arrange them over the chicken.

Note on chicken size: You may need to go to a farmers’ market to get these small chickens. Grocery store chickens often run 3 to 4 pounds. They can, of course, be used in this recipe but if chickens in the 2 1/2- to 3-pound range are available to you, they’re worth seeking out. They’re a little easier to cook properly at the temperatures we recommend here and, most important, pieces this size result in the optimal meat-to-crust proportion, which is such an important part of the pleasure of fried chicken.

Tips

Note: We let the chicken rest for 7 to 10 minutes after it comes out of the fryer so that it has a chance to cool down. If the chicken has rested for longer than 10 minutes, put the tray of chicken in a 400°F oven for a minute or two to ensure that the crust is crisp and the chicken is hot.

Serving Size

Serves 4 to 6

Cause an UPROAR

CAUSE AN UPROAR

with National Geographic's Big Cats Initiative

It was in Tanzania, in the Serengeti, where I saw lions in the wild for the first time and I got to see one of the world’s last black rhinos in the Ngorongoro Crater. At that point I realized there was no turning back... I saw with my own eyes the beauty, value, and importance of animals in the wild; in their natural habitat. To this day, I consider my African Safari the trip of a lifetime and by far and away the most rewarding one I've ever taken. Since then, I made a personal vow to take action, get involved in the cause, and participate in sharing the plight of so many species facing extinction. Here's a little information about an Initiative that IS causing an uproar and the ways you can help too.

  

ABOUT THE INITIATIVE

From lions in Kenya to snow leopards in the Himalaya, the big cats of the world need help. Lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards, jaguars, and other top felines are quickly disappearing, all victims of habitat loss and degradation as well as conflicts with humans.

Me & Thor, a Golden Tabby

To address this critical situation, the National Geographic Society and Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert, have launched the Big Cats Initiative, a comprehensive program that supports on-the-ground conservation projects, education, and economic incentive efforts and a global public-awareness campaign. “We no longer have the luxury of time when it comes to big cats,” says Dereck Joubert. “They are in such a downward spiral that if we hesitate now, we will be responsible for extinctions across the globe. If there was ever a time to take action, it is now.” You can help us make a difference.

Your donation can help save a big cat and ensure the Earth is not without these majestic creatures. Please donate today! You also can help by signing up for Big Cats Initiative updates with the Explorers Newsletter. To see how we use donations to BCI, read our 2011 Annual Donor Report.

First Step: Halting Decline of Lions and Cheetahs

Lions are dying off rapidly across Africa. These cats once ranged across the continent and into Syria, Israel, Iraq, Pakistan, Iran, and even northwest India; 2,000 years ago more than a million lions roamed the Earth. Since the 1940s, when lions numbered an estimated 400,000, lion populations have blinked out across the continent. Now they may total as few as 20,000 animals. Scientists connect the drastic decreases in many cases to burgeoning human populations. The Big Cats Initiative aims to halt lion population declines by the year 2015 and to restore populations to sustainable levels.

Who’s Involved

The Big Cats Initiative is made up of conservationists led by National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert. Having lived and worked in some of Africa’s most remote areas for more than 25 years as authors and filmmakers, the Jouberts have embraced the cause of wildlife conservation, especially for big cats. They are active conservationists in Botswana, members of the IUCN Lion Working Group, and founding members of the Chobe Wildlife Trust and of Conservation International in Botswana. The Jouberts also work in ecotourism and on building community partnerships.

Partners and Funders Sought

National Geographic will collaborate with local and international NGOs, corporations, local community groups, and individuals to work with saving lions and ensuring the future of this multiyear initiative.

Read more facts about big cats.

To Live In . . . UHURU !!!!

What does it mean to live in “Uhuru”? Uhuru is a Swahili word meaning independence; freedom. What exactly is freedom? Can you taste it, see it, reach out and touch it? The answer to these questions is no. However, if reflected upon, freedom can certainly be felt, not in the physical sense but by the emotion called feeling.

An exemplary story about living in Uhuru (freedom) is that of Wangari Maathai. Professor Maathai was a celebrated environmentalist, but what was equally remarkable about her was 'her open defiance of outdated, male chauvinistic, neo-colonial and repressive attitudes and traditions' that hindered not just women, but Kenya as a whole. Her memoir, aptly titled Unbowed is an autobiographical account of her desire to live in freedom and to forge new territory by living ‘unbowed’ in her convictions.

A review of ‘Unbowed’ by the American Library Association provides insight into Wangari Maathai’s extraordinary life. She was the mother of three, the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate, and the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari Maathai of Kenya understood how the good earth sustains life both as a biologist and as a Kikuyu woman who, like generations before her, grew up nourishing food in the rich soil of Kenya's central highlands. In her engrossing and eye-opening memoir, a work of tremendous dignity and rigor, Maathai described the paradise she knew as a child in the 1940s, when Kenya was a "lush, green, fertile" land of plenty, and the deforested nightmare it became. Discriminated against as a female university professor, Maathai fought hard for women's rights.

And it was women she turned to when she undertook her mission to restore Kenya's decimated forests, launching the Green Belt Movement which provided women with work planting trees. Maathai's ingenious, courageous, and tenacious activism led to arrests, beatings, and death threats, and yet she and her tree-planting followers remained unmoved and UNBOWED. As Kenya's deputy minister for the environment and natural resources, Nobel laureate, visionary, and hero, Maathai restored humankind's innate, if nearly lost, knowledge of the intrinsic connection between thriving, wisely managed ecosystems and health, justice, and peace. She epitomized what it means to live in ‘Uhuru’.

It is my belief that everyone, particularly every woman, will greatly benefit by reading Wangari Maathai’s memoir, 'Unbowed', and hopefully at the end of its pages feel inspired by the message to truly live independently in freedom or ‘Uhuru’. This is what the book has done for me. It taught me something so important about life . . . To live unbowed (or in other words unyielding) in freedom is the emotion that comes with feeling something so strongly that we are inspired to act with conviction, faith, and courage in order to triumph over whatever it is that may come our way.

To live in Uhuru is a state of independence, not dependence, which is best achieved by embracing the principles of being educated, strong, persistent, wiser, and braver than we ever thought we could be. No matter what it is you believe in or are passionate about . . . use your voice with confidence in a positive way . . . letting your unique spirit shine … that is what it truly means to embody ‘Uhuru’!

To read Wangari Maathai’s remarkable story about posessing the will to make change occur, listen, no matter where you are from, as this book and its central theme about being 'unbowed' will positively change your life. Here is the link to purchase the book on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Unbowed-Memoir-Vintage-Wangari-Maathai/dp/0307275205

And one more thing . . . as a testament to Wangari Maathai’s life of living ‘unbowed’ there is a special place in the heart of Nairobi-Kenya called Uhuru Park … a green reserve amidst vast high-rise development.
So cool!
 

My Thought for the Day...

I'm a vagabond of the air. 

Flying signifies freedom. 

In flying I see no borders only horizon!

Driving West Across The U.S.A

Freedom on the open road!


There is nothing quite like the experience of driving from east to west across our breathtaking country. Many individuals may never take the opportunity to travel at a snail's pace from one state to another for a number of reasons, and I'm here to tell you it is a big mistake if you don't. Throw out the excuse that it's not a priority to see everything in between because truth is, life is about discovery, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the enjoyment you'll have from the unexpected experiences. Stomp on the notion that there just isn't enough time in your schedule: what happens if your life is cut shorter than you think - have you done and seen all the things you really wanted to - or did you allow the dull-drums of everyday life fog your vision and cloud your spirit? Well, if that's the case - tell those clouds to be gone!  And surely you know better than to think that the destination is important but not the journey. The journey is in fact a 'destination' and the memories you'll cherish will include the adventures you found and created along the way! Now I'd like to share one such journey of mine...


On a lovely September morning in Michigan we hit the road. We departed Detroit on the 94 West headed to Chicago. We stayed in Chicago for 2 nights. The first night we went out on the town - headed down to the action packed area of North Rush Street. We dined at Carmine's for dinner and then stopped in a few places for drinks, live music, and dancing. The next day we tooled around Chicago - visited Millennium Park and "The Bean", had a leisurely lunch, and rode bikes around the infamous Lake Shore Drive. The second night we laid low and caught up on some rest so we could head out bright and early the next morning. Chicago was fabulous however we had our sights set on unchartered territory neither one of us had experienced.

Early on the third morning we drove out of Chicago on the 90 / 39 towards Madison, Wisconsin - we spent the afternoon in the town of Madison, on the campus of The University of  Wisconsin - Madison, and at the lakefront area of Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Wisconsin is a wonderful place and the people were so warm and friendly. I have to admit, unless I drove right through it I am sure I would not have had a chance to visit this area as it just wouldn't have been one of my priorities... now do you see what I mean about the importance of the journey and the unexpected surprises!?

55' Jolly Green Giant

Towards the late afternoon we hopped back in the car and continued on the 90 West to Onalaska, Wisconsin. We checked into a hotel and then decided to venture out to see what Onalaska was all about. We had a fabulous mexican dinner at a place called Manny's Cocina - who would have ever thought the best Mexican dinner I've ever had would be in Onalaska, Wisconsin - highly recommended if you ever find yourself in this part of the country! Upon filling our bellies and catching some zz's we began the next day fresh and eager to hit the road progressing westward. But, not before visiting the 55 foot tall Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth, Minnesota. Now that's exciting!  LOL! It made me want to sing the jingle we all know, "Jollllyyy Greeennnn Giannnttt!" Supposedly, Blue Earth, Minnesota is also the birthplace of the ice cream sandwich. Who would have thunk it?!

Mitchell Corn Palace in SD

By late morning we were well on our way - travelling on the 90 West all day to Rapid City, South Dakota. The trek across South Dakota was long, flat, and sparse, except for all the corn and ethanol plants lining the desolate highway. We did stumble upon two worthy sites to stop off and visit - the world's only Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota and South Dakota's Original 1880 Town. Let me tell you about the Corn Palace... !! What a weird place. First off, after all the road signs for miles and miles telling us to be sure to visit the Corn Palace ahead - I envisioned we would see something more like Buckingham Palace but maybe made out of corn?! Not sure really, but, in reality it was literally just a gymnasium that had corn attached to the facade to give it the illusion it was a "Corn Palace"! Ha Ha!!! 

1880 Town in SD

Thank goodness 1880 Town was a bit more worthy of our time. 1880 Town replicates an authentic 1880 to 1920 era town from buildings to contents. The best part of all - most of the props that were used to make the movie 'Dances With Wolves' was what made-up the majority of 1880 Town. I have always loved that movie and so seeing much of what went into setting the scenes was really cool! After making a quick exit from the Corn Palace and spending more time than allotted at 1880 Town we only had enough steam left to make it to Rapid City, South Dakota for the night. Falling asleep with thoughts of era's past on my mind I was appreciative of my journey thus far.

The next day we spent the morning and early afternoon at Mount Rushmore near Keystone, South Dakota in the Black Hills. Fantastic visual history... between October 4, 1927 and October 31, 1941, Gutzon Borglum and 400 workers sculpted the colossal 60 foot high carvings of U.S. Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln to represent the first 150 years of American history. These presidents were selected by Borglum because of their role in preserving the Republic and expanding its territory. The grounds surrounding the National Park were beautiful - it was definitely a place to see!


After completing our tour around Mount Rushmore we were ready to continue westward towards California. We took the 90 West into Wyoming to the 25 South through Wyoming into Colorado and then finally onto the 70 West. This was a long day of driving but it was well worth it because the landscape was spectacular... you could see how the scenery was changing the further west we traveled. From city-scape to the flatlands of the midwest to the mountains in the pacific. Amazing! After making it through some tough terrain on the winding roads of Colorado at night we made it to Leadville, Colorado. Exhausted and happy to feel the comfort of a bed we both quickly drifted off to sleep.

Rising the next day with the sun and the sight of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains in the background smiles lit our faces. We were ready to explore. We hopped in the car, turned on the tunes and proceeded on  the 70 West again. Since we were so close to Aspen we decided to take a detour to visit this marvelous ski town. The GPS directed us to the 91 South to the 24 South to the 82 West into Aspen. The drive was so inspiring - everywhere you looked you felt like you were part of an Ansel Adams photograph. It was that beautiful! Too bad Rocky Mountain High by John Denver or Mountain Music by Alabama wasn't playing on the radio! On our way along the 82 we came to the Continental Divide at the top of Independence Pass in the central Rocky Mountains (12,095 feet).  This is the highest paved pass in Colorado - at the center of one of the most spectacular stretches of road in the state, passing clear rivers, beautiful valleys, steep peaks, and extensive aspen forests. As you can imagine, at that elevation the weather was quite brutal. In such a short period of time we experienced the rather comfortable temperature of the valley to the blustery conditions on top of the mountain. We snapped some photos and moved on. We arrived in Aspen in time for lunch, a stroll around town, and browsing the shops. Such an inviting and quaint place! After a few hours it was time to continue driving. We made it to Grand Junction, Colorado where we spent the night.

We were now on the home stretch of our journey to California and ready for what the day was to bring. We continued on the 70 West into Utah. Once again, seeing the landscape slowly change from the mountainous region to more arid and desert-like was what made travelling by car so special. We stumbled upon a wonderful apple orchard where you could pick your own apples. The sun was shining and the sky was crystal blue - a picture perfect morning to wander around the orchard. After this mini excursion we were anxious to make our way to Arches National Park. Arches National Park preserves over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, like the world-famous Delicate Arch, as well as many other unusual rock formations. In some areas, the forces of nature have exposed millions of years of geologic history. The extraordinary features of the park create a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures that is unlike any other in the world. We drove the park and in many spots along the way we parked, hiked, and took some amazing and unique pictures. It was well worth the visit! Tuckered out, hungry, and the stress of almost running out of gas - there wasn't a gas station anywhere in sight - it felt like we were on Mars - we got a room at the first hotel we spotted which just so happened to be the only exit that also had a gas station and a Denny's. Score!

About 9 hours later, feeling pretty well rested and having a car full of gas we got back on the70 West. We stayed on the 70 through Utah then connected to the 15 South. We arrived at Zion National Park (Southwest corner of Utah) by early afternoon. Massive canyon walls ascend toward a brilliant blue sky. To experience Zion, you need to walk among the towering cliffs, or challenge your courage in a small narrow canyon. These unique sandstone cliffs range in color from cream, to pink, to red. They could be described as sand castles crowning desert canyons. It is a place made from the heavens! We spent all day enjoying the Park where the photo opportunities were abundant. If you ever have a chance, I highly recommend visiting Zion National Park! We exited Zion just as the sun was setting and stopped somewhere along the 15 not too far from Las Vegas. We originally thought we would make it all the way to Las Vegas but with the day's activities we were too tired. Tomorrow was another day.

Waking up in Nevada, we knew we were within hours of arriving into Los Angeles. Although we were quite anxious at this point to complete our journey, we did stop off in Las Vegas for a bit. We've both been there many times so we didn't stay long. Long enough to have lunch and try our hand at Lady Luck. By late afternoon we arrived in Los Angeles. By this point we had driven over 3,000 miles across the great U.S of A! I was very excited, anxious, and a bit overwhelmed with emotion. So many thoughts were flooding my mind. I was about to start a new beginning! To reinvent, revive, and rekindle my spirit. I kept reminding myself that life is a journey and not a destination and I was embarking on a new chapter in my journey - my life.

“All of life is a journey which paths we take, what we look back on, and what we look forward to is up to us. We determine our destination, what kind of road we will take to get there, and how happy we are when we get there.”

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."