mentoring

Sharing Animal Wisdom with Young Girls at Horizons4Girls

Posted by Barbara Techel

visit with horizon4girls e

Horizons4Girls….“at promise”, not at risk… and we inspire their internal promise to fulfill their academic and personal goals.”

I love that they say promote “at promise” instead of the negative picture “at risk” can paint, thus labeling these young ladies who can benefit greatly from a listening ear and inspiration from others.

It is my hope that is what Miss Gidget and I were able to do for them yesterday– inspire them and know they are not alone in their feelings and worries — that we all go through tough times and periods of doubt about who we are.

We volunteered an hour of our time as I shared a series of photos of the dogs I’ve had in my life — each one having taught me different lessons — and I shared those teachings with the special young ladies that were present Tuesday afternoon.

As I shared with them, we all learn in different ways — different lessons about life, and that I happened to learn some of my most valuable lessons from my animal companion friends.

One of the most personal stories I shared with them was how Frankie helped me to move past the shame I carried for years (into my 40s) the stigma I felt for never having the maternal instinct to want children of my own. I recalled one of the first times after visiting a school full of kids with Frankie, sharing with them her story of being in a wheelchair and persevering.

When I got out to my car after the presentation for the school kids, I cried. It was a joyful cry because in that moment I realized had I been a mom to my own kids, I may not have been able to do the work I was doing with Frankie at that time. I was meant to be a mentor in a special way to many kids because of my work with Frankie.

It is my hope by sharing that story that they will follow what is right for their hearts and not worry about what society may say they “should” do as they grow into young adults.

It was a delight to hear some of the girls share stories of their own pets (and photos!) and lessons they’ve learned from them. It was also a wonderful way in which to share a special connection between all of us and our animal friends.

Next Saturday, Gidget and I will be volunteering with the girls helping deliver cookies to the residents at an area nursing home. We will be going from room to room to bring joy and love to many which I’m really looking forward to.

There is still time to sponsor a dozen (or more) cookies if you’d like to help us reach our goal. We are almost there!  All you have to do is go to Horizons4Girls support page by clicking HERE. Scroll down and on the left hand side you will see Gidget’s sweet face and that is where you can sponsor cookies.  Thanks for considering!

Setting Sail For New Horizons and a New Volunteer/Mentoring Opportunity

Posted by Barbara Techel

2014-06-08 16.26.47In April I had the opportunity to sit down with some of the young ladies and staff that make up Horizons4Girls, which is a non-profit organization in our area “helping young women navigate life’s road map.”

Their mission statement:  “Horizons4Girls works to help young women discover, in a safe setting, the options they have as they travel through life. Horizons provides a listening ear while working to stop at-risk behaviors. Horizons, while working with family, teachers, social workers and others, works to surround the student with a supportive and safe setting to fully develop necessary life skills as they continue into their adulthood.”

During our time together I shared with them my story which has led me to where I am today. We discussed everything from body image, worrying what others think of our choices, writing, judgement and following your heart. Gidget made a special appearance with me that day also and we talked about her disc disease, sharing with them that it does not define her.

Horizons4Girls helps these young ladies through staff and volunteer mentors with life skills, incorporating creativity in a variety of expressions, as well as involving them in community services.

A few weeks ago, Linda, who is on the Board of Directors, asked me if I’d consider being a volunteer/mentor. I have to say that I was quite honored, but I must also admit that I was nervous. Do I have what it takes to make a positive impact on these young ladies? It feels like a big responsibility.

But I was open to learning more, so I met with Founder, Char and Linda last week. They shared a few heartwarming stories of how the organization is making a difference in many young lives. I was even brought to tears from one of the stories.  While I didn’t make my decision that day, as I said I needed a day to think about it, I drove home knowing 99% I want to give this a try.

I’ve agreed to volunteer once a month for the next 6-12 months. A part of me is still nervous, but I’m also excited about this new opportunity. This, for me, is a sign that I want to try and see where it may lead. While yes, I am still nervous, I’m looking forward to my training Friday afternoon.

As I’ve shared on my blog before, I’ve been a part of a women’s group for the last 16-weeks called “Unwrapping the True Self” which has been so beneficial for my continued growth. Often during the discussions we have, I think of young women trying to make their way in the world today and how so much of what we learn in this setting could help them. So I hope to take what I’ve learned (and am continuing to learn), and be a positive example for Horizons4Girls and living from your true authentic self.

My first role this Thursday evening is helping plan a one day retreat for the girls, with Linda, and a life coach from the area, who has also volunteered her time.  So here we go!

Helping an Artist Bloom. Our Hearts Swell with Pride.

Posted by Barbara Techel

cass and g 1200Gidget hanging out with Cassy at her soon-to-be new studio and custom-frame shop

It all began a little over three years ago. Little did I know then that this young lady would become embedded not only in my heart, but in the heart of John as well.

I’ve written about Cassy before on my blog. A dear friend, a talented artist, and a beautiful young lady with passion that is contagious. Ever since she came into this world thirty years ago she has known she wanted to be an artist. She has pursued that dream with a vigor  like no other person I’ve ever known.

Cassy has sacrificed many things to make this happen. Some of it quite painful and many times having her question if she should move forward. But with determination and a deep knowing, she keeps following her heart.

You may recall that Cassy came to live with John and I this past summer as she went through a divorce. We all grew in ways we could have never imagined. We took Cassy under our wings and did our very best to nurture and support her.  Though yes, trying at times as we will all admit, we would do it all over again.

I’ve always believed the Universe will support you if you show it you are serious about what it is that you want. Cassy is a great example of that.

As we moved through the summer, she began to bloom. The day came when she announced she was moving out into a little apartment. She had to prove to herself she could make it on her own. Though there were many tears shed, it would turn out to be another example of moving forward so more could bloom in her life.

A little over a week later she was approached by the soon-to-be owners of a new wine bar that is opening in our area. The other half of the building was up for rent and they thought Cassy and her art would be the perfect match.

While I mentored Cassy as she went through following her heart and pursuing her art dream, it soon became evident that John would play a beautiful role in Cassy’s dream of a new studio and shop.

To say I am proud of John is not big enough of a word. But indeed, I am so proud of all he has done, and continues to do to help Cassy. He has volunteered his labor building out her new store front, while also voluntarily mentoring her with business decisions.

Not only have I watched Cassy bloom before my eyes, but  to also watch as John’s heart has expanded has been one of my greatest joys.

Cassy often thanks us for helping save her life and her dream. But honestly, this could not have been done if she didn’t want this with all her heart.

One moment that sticks in my mind and now makes so much sense to me is when I first brought Joie home in October 2012.  Cassy knew my love of special needs dachshunds having known Frankie as well.

One evening as she was struggling to make changes in her life she sent me a text that said, “I want to find my Joie.” At the time I wasn’t sure what she meant.

Now I completely understand. Her art is her dream. It’s her heart. It’s her joy. As was my Frankie and Joie, and now Gidget. We get each other. We know what it means to follow our hearts even when big obstacles are in the way, as well as when it becomes scary and painful.

So this week we celebrate!  Today John and our JT Construction crew are moving Cassy into her new studio and shop. Tomorrow and Friday I’ll be helping at the new space getting things in order. December 6th is the Grand Opening from 6-8pm. You can bet John and I will be there, our hearts full of love, and beaming with pride for Cassy.

To help someone else bloom has an amazing affect… not only has it been a joy to watch Cassy bloom, but to feel the blooming that has taken place in our own hearts is quite magical and special.

1474492_10102665338567027_1978644316_nThe A-Team from left to right:  Tim Tully (Cassy’s Dad), Pat Tully (Cassy’s Mom), Cassy, Barbara and John

If you wish to learn more about Cassy and her exquisite art, here is where you can find her:

Cassy Tully – Fine Art website

Cassy Tully – Fine Art on Facebook