On the shoulders of giants.

Source: Michael Noyes

And boy oh boy is it nice in the shade.  Over a decade ago when I started my career in education reform I had a dear friend who was old enough to be my mother.  We hung out all the time and when I would make presentations or give speeches she would distract me with her beaming smile.  She was super kooky but she taught me a really important lesson about life.  She smiled at me because I was living the dream, her dream and the dream of so many women.  I was enjoying her shade.

Junior League of Fresno Past Presidents

And here I am, once again basking in the shade.  In less than a month I will be the President-Elect of the Junior League of Fresno, following in the footsteps of some amazing women who helped make Fresno a better place to live.  From the Ronald McDonald House, to the Blood Mobile, to the Volunteer Bureau, to the Discovery Center.... the list goes on and on. 

Over the last two months, we lost three of our past presidents.  The way they lived their lives (in service of their community and having an absolute blast!) was such a pointed reminder for me.  Why I do this and why I want to do more.
Frances Mosgrove President 1961-62
Lyla MonPere President 1964-65
 Muriel Walton 1969-70

I am so lucky to come behind these women to continue their work in Fresno.  And I continue to be amazed at the caliber of women in League today.  Busy, smart, generous, and gracious women who make the time to make a difference.  What an honor to be part of this organization.  I am in the company of some great women. 

Source: Markologie

We are going to do great things.  Have you ever witnessed the power of a group of determined women?  That's what we are. Stand-by.  We aren't afraid to get our hands dirty.

So over the next year, I will watch, plan, listen, think, train (Wh-what?  I get training!?!  I've NEVER had a job that included training!), and stretch to prepare myself for 2014-15.  But more importantly, I'm going to be tapping a whole bunch of smart women on the shoulder and calling on them to be a part of history in the making.  This isn't about MY presidency, this is about the trees we will plant together.

My PEE (President-Elect-Elect) Orchid {flowers always sweeten the deal}