
Right after high school I worked a couple of summers at the License Bureau (boy did I have to gain some thick skin). My supervisor, Libby Ward, was an exceptional leader. She told me I could continue a great career there. She wanted me to stay and work for her (although I did not like the experience of being lunged at after telling someone he was in the wrong line after he had waited so long–but that did prepare me for being a principal). It was good money for an 18-19 year old and it definitely helped my typing AND communication skills. My typing was fast I and knew shorthand too. It gave me a “leg up” according to my friend who helped me attain the position. On the side, I would clean a few motel rooms for my aunt and uncle who owned a family restaurant and tiny motel. Of course they always gave great feedback; especially when I needed to fold sheets. ;-).
It was 1991 and I was relieved to make it to my senior year of college. As a student aide for that winter semester I was preparing for student teaching for the final semester (the best job I was preparing for was motherhood; I was carrying my first born). At 4:30 a.m. I would rise and shine and drive 30 miles from my rural town to my preschool job in the “big city” by 6:00 a.m. For six hours I would read with, chase, giggle, play, and attempt to “herd” and teach 18 3-4 years old with Ms. Edna. I’d get off work at noon and have time to grab lunch on campus before my afternoon and evening classes began. Typically it would be 9:30 before I got home. Ms. Edna inspired me to keep on keeping on. Ms. Edna Stockstill was in her 60’s at the time. She grew up a farm girl and could run circles around me it seemed. I decided I’d be like Edna. She wore her faith on her sleeve and kids and parents adored her. She could be rough and gruff at times and then soothe them with supple soul words. She was authentic and always provided great feedback and wisdom. My supervisor at the child development center, Marthann Hoover, was such a quality leader too. She’d drop by the classrooms and give immediate feedback. I felt blessed. After three years together we all shared some sadness when I could no longer work there due to student teaching. I was always so nervous when the university supervisors would evaluate me during student teaching (I said “you’un’s” over 20 times in my first evaluation–I give all credit to my rural roots ;-)).
All of my jobs in my teens and through college (McDonalds, the license bureau, babysitting, cleaning, and teaching pre-school) set me up for a career with expectations. And at every experience feedback was given. I paid it forward by always trying to give feedback to staff. There’s a difference between needing a pat on the back and truly wanting to know if you’re making a difference and meeting marks of mastery. We all need encouragement though, even if a “needs to improve” is identified (and still with me, daily lol). Each year as a leader I would attend trainings to further my feedback familiarity.
I wanted to take a few to feed feedback to you. To my fellow writers: I love your creativity, authenticity, talents and gifts, humility, humor, truthfulness, effort, timing, interests, thought-provoking statements, commitment, courage, and approach. I appreciate how many of you keep me informed, raise awareness, and further my own success through your encouragement. Being a writer isn’t going to bring a million bucks (yeppers, I can name several it did); but this journey has been essential for my own health and healing. My goal isn’t to be famous. Being a do-er dreamer is in me still. A couple of weeks ago I visited the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum with great friends. Soaking in the history, and of course goosebumps, while walking through she and Almanzo’s farm again reminded that no matter the age, there are dreams to be achieved if you can and so choose (Laura was 65 when she was published).
My time is more crunched lately with a myriad of goals I try to meet each week; and I like it. One day a week I have the privilege of being coached. We have developed such a partnership that our hour can turn into two. And once we depart one another, I’m jumping on my goals for the next week. Like most of you, I’m on my own as far as editing, marketing, and building my audience. I’m going to work on a page on the website solely for my publishing-an “author page” if you will. There will be a description of the children’s book series in which I’m writing. And I think I may have found an illustrator. That’s a wonderful story to share later. 🤍
Three months ago today I became a house dweller. The foundation is below me and I’m doing my best to build on it; and strengthen it (I was giggly over gravel on Monday). Many days, aside from house chores, I’m zeroing in on social media for short spurts (ugh, it’s HARD because I’m not a huge fan of it–but in this day and age, it’s a must to connect with others; and I’m finding such amazing artists). Other weekly activities include placing book in print house form, editing and re-editing over and over, and trying to READ. As a writer I need to be READING. Which leads me to my title Faithful Feedback. I’m averaging about 1,000 e-mails a week (how about you?) and I SEE YOU. Your names pop up in my inbox each day. And I smile. The names of your posts make my mornings. This family of friends and fellow writers has been my portion of professionalism to propel my projects (adequate alliteration?). It would be my wish to read each and every post daily. I’m amazed by the talent of this community. I’m in awe of your commitments. And I just marvel at the marvelous magic you make on your keyboards (from “punny” poems, quick quotes, to anecdotal adventures and achievements) Congratulations on making it this far in life and doing what you’re doing. I’m proud of you all. And it’s my pleasure for knowing you. Truly. Stay safe, healthy, and blessed. You are loved. Stay encouraged please.




Have faith 💚


Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Photo by Phong Nguyen on Pexels.com
You have a lot of things in your wheelbarrow. Children’s books, wow, good for you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Gary!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! It is always a joy to read your posts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
And to you, Regina. Your kind words are always encouraging. ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel the same about yours! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
💚❤️💛
LikeLike
Nice quotes
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
☘️❤️🐾
LikeLiked by 1 person
💚🤍🤗🐶
LikeLike
I always love to see what you have on your mind to write about. Love always and forever. J. Ps love the picture. ❤️🙏
LikeLiked by 2 people
Aww thank you so much sweetheart. And thank you for the picture. And support always. Love you F & A ❤️💚
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your ever encouraging words. Your positive attitude is contagious even to an old broad like me. We all need a pat on the back applied with sincerity.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Kathy, you’re so welcome. And thank you for your encouragement (you made me giggle 🤭). ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah dear lady, the power of following your heart. It can do no other but blossom like a flower. It may close over to rest at night but each day it comes back bigger, brighter and more lovely each time. May this journey be forever printed in your heart with the love that created it and now shared to show others a path made with belief 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏽 🦋
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you always for your words of wisdom and light, Mark. I’ll always remember this part of my journey indeed. Blessings to you! 🙏🏻🍀☀️💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dearest Karla, how thankful I am that God crossed our paths. I have complete confidence in Christ who is in you to bring this series to completion. My book is on hold but not forgotten. Thank you for your smiles written with heartfelt encouragement. Please know my world is brighter because of you. Love, Julie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you my friend. You’re a light in mine as well. I have the confidence, book or not, that the writing we do will carry on after us. And maybe along the way we just keep our light shining and love as we linger on. I know you will. I’m going to do my best too. So glad to call you friend and sister. Love, Karla ❤️
LikeLiked by 2 people
lovely thoughts and quotes K!💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Cindy ❤️🍀
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re most welcome K! 💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
New fresh gravel is indeed a joy— so is fresh pine straw and mulch 🥰
Happy rooting!!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Julie. I never thought I’d be excited over having gravel lol. It’s definitely not the most joyful thing of Spring but it sure helped out my mud pits. I’ve got an area to mulch and am having fun rooting indeed (I’m thinking fresh tomatoes, beautiful plants, and the overall joy of nature). It’s so good to see you. Thank you for your support. I hope all is well with you and yours (and those lovely grandkids). ❤️💚💛🍀
LikeLike
You always make me smile, often ponder and occasionally blush. I look forward to reading your posts. The words we share through the ether are from the heart and the soul and that makes them so much more powerful than mere vowels and consonants. Be well my friend.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Pam, thank you for such sweet feedback. That is so kind. I look forward to reading yours as well. You have a gift and you’ve used life’s obstacles to just be stronger. Stay well! I get my first Covid-19 shot this morning in thinking of “being well”. Hugs and blessings. 💛
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m getting my first shot this afternoon! Good luck to us both.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It went well didn’t it? I hope for you too! ❤️💚
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely no problem at all! Yay.
LikeLiked by 1 person
❤️🙌🏻 yay! I’m a bit achy tonight but I’ve stayed so busy. I’ll just take Tylenol. That’s what I was told. But otherwise all great!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I got the shot at 3 o’clock yesterday afternoon and I have had no reaction at all. Let’s hope it continues. Glad to know you are doing well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good deal, Pam! I’m still doing great too. Only a sore arm. Have a blessed and happy Friday and weekend! 💚
LikeLiked by 1 person
Karla, your posts are always a rich blend of honesty, compassion, and kindness.💗 You reminded me of my student teaching experience – mine, one semester in a high school setting. Good times! Best wishes on your writing and publishing goals and life happiness. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Michelle. I appreciate your sweet feedback. And I can smile thinking of your H.S.experience 💕 blessings to you and thank you for inspiring me. Stay safe my friend. 💚
LikeLiked by 1 person
😄 Some days I wanted to cry, during that student teaching experience. Stressful existence! I did find my groove, in my own classroom. Thank you, blessings and love to you too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I understand. ❣️🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are obviously a high-energy person! You have a lot going. I enjoyed your post and your reflections. (I graduated from college in 1989, only a little ahead of you. However, I was 35 at the time.)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Jon! My energy isn’t what it used to be, but I sure try to make “hay while the sun is shining “. It’s important to my health and mind to stay busy. But I sure know how to relax too; even if my “relaxing” is a walk in the woods. You and one of my dearest friends are the same age. And share similar stories of college. Way to go!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ma’am you are a game changer and an inspiration.
beautiful quotes. Experiences mould a person and its so evident in your writings.
👏👏👏👏
thank you
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much for your sweet words. Experiences indeed shape us. I appreciate your support very much. ❤️💚💛
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your posts are always so encouraging! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much my friend. Stay safe and blessed. I appreciate you so much. You’re an encouragement to me too. ❤️💚💛
LikeLike
So many goals! I’m hoping you achieve success and are able to point the way (as a leader/mentor)… Happy St. Valentine’s Day!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for your lovely words! And best wishes. And yes, I’d love to help carry the torch forward. I appreciate your support. 💚
LikeLike
Such a wow life Karla and am so proud of you. Your whole journey of learning and growing and completing the feedback loop is amazing. All the very best for the books and the website. I too am into all that😊
It is so good to know you.
Love and blessings 💖🤗
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ashok, thank you for such wonderful comments and support. I appreciate your prayers and good wishes. I’m so happy to know you too. It means so much. Love and blessings right back! 💚
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure entirely Karla 😊🌹
LikeLike
Warring green (since yesterday!) Can’t get any more Irish, other than being
married to one, than that!
Wonderful post Karla!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s awesome, Eddie! You have the luck of the Irish on your side 🌈. Thank you for your support and encouragement my friend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Positive critique helps us grow. You have a very full plate! I have never understood people who say they have nothing to do. I’ve always felt all you have to do is look there’s always something! Another inspiring post dear friend! 💝💕🌈💞😊☕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Happy Thursday my friend! You have such wisdom to share~I appreciate your encouragement and thoughts so much. ❤️There’s so much I want to do that I’m floating in the immediate routine that is helping me the most spiritually, physically, and emotionally. I love shaking it up a bit to go explore when there’s time or when my soul says, “It’s time for a big nature break!” Do you ever feel as though you’ve lived 1000 lives and you want to soak up every experience to better the next one? And I know how to find rest too. Will you guys be headed to Branson soon? Want to walk? I love you dear friend. Stay safe and blessed. 🌈🤗💕💚❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Probably not till June. Have somethings that have come up in April/May. Can hardly wait to hug you walk/hike visit giggle & just be! Still waiting to get my covid shot.See you in June dear friend!☺😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds good. I hope they get you in soon with your immune. I’m fortunate my doctor did everything, including the scheduling. I just had to fill out the forms when I arrived to the spot. For the first time in over two years my sons and their families will be visiting Missouri in May. I’ll be happy to show off grandkid pics when I see you. And I want to know how life is for you my friend. See you in June! ❤️💚💛
LikeLike
So happy for your family reunion! Can hardly wait to see pictures! ☺😊💝
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! ❤️💚
LikeLike
How did I miss, that you were doing this?! I should have known as your writing never fails to move me. Congratulations and God speed. The pictures are lovely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much my sweet friend. I appreciate your kind words and support. ❤️💚🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
I absolutely love coaching you!! You are such a delight and a true kindred spirit. Our time together is fun, fast paced and so packed with great content. It’s so nice watching you flourish through this whole process. xx Lisa
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Lisa ❤️
LikeLike
Thank you for the encouragement in your words. 💗Have a great week!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome and thank YOU for you support and encouragement too. I hope this week is wonderful for you and your students. Do you (or did) have a Spring break? 💛🌼
LikeLiked by 1 person
Today is our first day back. 🥱😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
🤗😋😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Karla, you always find a way in your posts to allow me the privilege of discovering a few more golden nuggets. Feedback is the lifeblood of any relationship, and I was blessed with wonderful mentors during my teaching career. Best wishes with your continuing writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Richard. It makes me smile huge to know that it blessed you. I can imagine all you could share with your years in education. I appreciate your support immensely. Blessings to you both!
LikeLike
Great post Karla! I feel your kindness and energy reflecting off your words! From one writer to another here’s to making our dreams come true! C
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, C! Your words mean a lot . Yes, here’s to our dreams my friend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was talking with my daughter today about some of the life skills learned in my early jobs. I appreciate the qualities you describe in Ms. Edna Stockstill, “…authentic….wisdom…” I wholeheartedly agree with paying it forward. The words in your green box left me brimming with tears. You hit a chord. I did not know how old Laura was when she was published. I get about 100 emails a day, and I keep working on a system to stay on top of them. I day off and my system derails. The word ‘emergence’ continues to pop up in my radar, such as in Mother Teresa’s quote. I need to pay attention. A great post on many levels!💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so thankful for your thoughts and comments my friend. It touches my heart that it touched you. It’s taken me a year to find any rhythm on maintaining my site~and most now because I’m not working outside of home. It’s on Sunday nights or Monday mornings I set some weekly goals and this seems to be the time I do my weekly expunging. I always enjoy your posts and and pictures. And all your travel experiences. You have much wisdom and insight to offer. I know I’m forever a work in progress; give yourself grace too. Hugs and peace my friend. ❤️🤗💛
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, that was lovely. ❤ You have such an amazing soul. I worked in early childhood education for many years before teaching high school. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awww, thank you, my friend. No wonder we are kindred souls. ❤️🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Just found this. Yes, feedback from faithful, honest sources is a true (and humbling) gift. Where would we be without it? Stuck, I am afraid. Thanks for the encouragement to seek and accept encouragement in the form of honest comments.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for stopping by and also the lovely response. I think feedback is vital. Communication is vital. And thank you for the encouragement as well!
LikeLike
Karla. I love the warmth and positivity in your spirit. Can feel it on the other side of the planet ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aww thank you so much for your kind words. That’s what I hope to convey. ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sharing an older piece. Had emailed it a few days ago but not sure you received it. Do read it when you can
https://anandaonly.in/2017/08/28/there-are-always-songs-to-sing/
LikeLiked by 1 person
I never received it! But yes, I will read it. Thank you!
LikeLike
Check your spam folder
LikeLiked by 1 person
Will do
LikeLike