Real Women Are Alaskan!: My Monday Hero

Funny how the world sees "real women. . ."

Evidenced by all the Real Housewives of. . . shows which seem to be overtaking our televisions, it appears that the world believes we should all be wealthy, pampered, enviable, catty, curvaceous, gorgeous, and more. While we may be gorgeous, most of us are not rich or spoiled or even catty. We are ~ simply put ~ real.

The idea for this blog came after watching a few of those real housewives shows and realizing just how skewed the views of everyday life can be through the eyes of these women. Particularly to those of us in the trenches, working day-in-day-out to take care of ourselves, our children, our parents, our spouses/partners. Those of us who are out there earning a living, who may be dealing with catastrophic events or troubled children or medical issues or partner concerns.

This is a call to all women everywhere who live everyday lives and who want to simply do their best as they love all, laugh often, and live fully. Let us unite with our whole heart and soul, with humanity and grace, with vigor and hope. We are women and we are thankful to be so!

Monday, April 11, 2011

My Monday Hero - Cousin Paula

One of my known-forever-grew-up together cousins, Paula, is this week's Monday Hero ~ she is and always has been an awesome example to me in so many ways. Just barely older than me, I always wanted to be like her: her beautiful dark hair, her sparkling eyes, her great smile. As children, our families lived a couple of hours from one another in Southern California. We often spent days at a time at their house, and they at ours. I can still picture the layout of their home, the colorful non-breakable kitchen-ware (melmac, I seem to recall), and her dad's endless practical jokes!

Unbeknownst to Paula, she remained an example to me throughout the years. She has raised an incredible family while experiencing multiple challenges and trials. She is a happy, loving grandmother who still looks like she could be a young 40-year-old! But the most extraordinary single thing that Paula has done, in my opinion, is when she literally gave of herself to help prolong the life of our Uncle Ted.

Less than a decade ago, Uncle Ted needed a kidney. I know of others who were tested and were certainly willing to donate if they qualified. Despite that, only one person could. That one was our Paula. She did it quietly and purposely. She did it with compassion and love for a family member. And she would do it again, regardless of any physical or emotional pain it may leave her with. She is just that way.

Paula, you are one of my most favorite people in the world, and I am more than blessed to be your cousin! My hat is off to you, I appreciate who you are and what you represent. You remain an example of goodness, graciousness, and generosity. Thank you for being you!