It's Simple. Be Kind

Sometimes bullying can escalate to the point where legal action may be necessary. This can be costly and very time-consuming. I truly feel this final recourse should be limited only  to situations when all other cooperative and peaceful attempts at resolution have been unsuccessful, requests for intervention have been unmet by the school, and / or if your child’s life is in danger.  Working out the issue BEFORE it gets to this point will be much easier on your child as well as everyone involved! I am not an attorney (that legal advice will be coming soon) BUT in the case where it is your only option I have some advice for you. 1.       Know the Laws in Your State As you can imagine laws vary from state to state. Some laws are very detailed, while others have some room for improvement. StopBullying. Gov has a great website that lists each states law on bullying and harassment. Laws only = Dark Green, Policy only = Light Green, Both Law ...

Every child has the right to go to school to learn, grow, and flourish in a safe environment. Every parent deserves peace of mind that when they send their child away, they will be looked after, taken care of and respected. Every educator should feel they are equipped with the tools to be a major factor in putting an end to bullying in their classrooms and schools. Since the beginning of my blogs and videos I’ve received messages weekly from parents, teachers, and children themselves- asking for advice. I, in no way, claim to be an education professional, nor do I claim to know all the answers to the questions with which I am faced. I do, however, know how to help you find them. Some of the common concerns I see repeatedly are “My child is being bullied. I have told the school and they do nothing to stop it.” Or “I am a teacher and I feel we need better policies set in place to help students that are being bullied- I feel like my hands are tied. What are some cheap ways to i...

Since being crowned Mrs. Illinois International 5 months ago, I have attended over 42 appearances - not only in Illinois, but also in different states as well.  Every single time I leave an event, no matter what the cause, I leave with a sense of wanting to be EVEN MORE involved than just "making an appearance." I am SO inspired and most of the time I spend the drive home in silence brainstorming what MORE can I do for the cause, for the organization and the people they serve. I truly believe I was blessed with this opportunity not to parade around the state with a beautiful crown, but because I am meant for something so much bigger. It is my absolute pleasure to bring attention to the MANY amazing non-profits changing the lives of thousands every single day with their selfless service. This week I was invited to visit the Bridge Teen Center . They are a non-profit community center for students 7th - 12th grade. When I say this is one of the most beautiful facilities I ...

Wow... Where do I even begin?  I still can't believe the week has come and gone!! A week I worked so hard to be ready for- my first national / international pageant, is in the books! I'm still trying to catch up with sleep, but for the most part I'm back into the swing of things here at home!  First and foremost, I would like to congratulate all 61 women that were in attendance. Every single one of you was amazing. I was in awe of all you do for your families, your causes, your states and/ or countries, and your faith. A lot of time, dedication, money and heart went into this week. Congrats to the top 15, top 10, top 5 and our new queen Priscilla. Keep doing big things- because you do make a difference. You have put your self out there, and that alone is an accomplishment in itself.  The week started off with a 4:30 am wake up call to head to the airport. Later that day I would be meeting 61 women from all over the world- ready to share thei...

I have always been a tough minded person; tall athletic and a former collegiate wrestler.  I am self sufficient and have used my past life experiences to form the person that I am today.  These characteristics can carry me through many difficulties but when you put those up against other people and the choices they make it can become beyond frustrating.  My occupation is a tug boat operator, a very rough blue color job in many ways.  I was fortunate to have a close friend get me this job years ago when I was in need and I worked very hard to move up in the company, get the promotions and better my own situation.  After 3 years of labor intensive work and 6 months of dedicated studying I finally obtained a license that allowed me to operate a vessel up to 1600 tons.  Boat navigation is quite difficult, there are many factors to consider and developing the skill takes persistence and dedication.  As I was learning to drive I was put with a Captain who w...

"What does Mrs. Illinois do exactly?" I get that question a lot!!  I will do my very best to answer that... Illinois has a very strong history of remarkable women who have been blessed with the title of Mrs. Illinois International.  We are wives. We are doctors. We are teachers. We are women of God. We are mothers. We are philanthropists. We are nurses. We are community leaders. We are advocates. We are ambassadors. We are multi-taskers who love a challenge.  We are women who are not afraid of hard work. We are role models and we are a voice. We are women with a vision. We are women who want to change the world and pageantry is our chosen way to do this. Over the years we have represented organizations like CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Feed My Starving Children, Autism Speaks, Boys and Girls Club, Make a Wish, PACER's and Go Red for Women to name a few. We have represented survivors of cancer, mental illness, suicide, depression,...