Iowa Women's Hall of Fame Acceptance - Aug. 29, 2009

Thank you for that introduction.

As I listened, I thought perhaps I would just not say anything,

And maybe all those lovely words would continue!

Heartfelt thanks to the

Iowa Commission on the Status of Women

Who lift up the accomplishments of women in Iowa.

As I look at past honorees – and those of us here today,

Recognition of such diverse accomplishments helps us to remember it takes

Many hands, much energy and a tireless spirit to build the

communities we find in Iowa.

I am reminded of my great friend and mentor, Mary Louise Smith

Who said “it takes great conversations to build great communities”.

So true….

I am also reminded today of the spirit of a very good friend

who is still missed, Dr. Sue Follon.

An early Director of ICSW, she provided a wonderful legacy to build on.

I thank my fellow honorees – for all you have done

Making a difference is so many ways….

It am honored to be chosen with you and humbled to

Realize I am considered worthy to belong in such a group.

To Joan Axel, Loretta Sieman and Libby Jacobs.

Joan met Loretta and Libby in person today for the first time –

But through e-mail and correspondence, they collaborated to nominate me.

THANK YOU!

How blessed I am!

An only child but never lonely? My cousins were also my siblings

In our larger extended family.

Thanks to several of them who join me here today.

I think they get the prize for coming the farthest!

Sister in law Carol and nieces Rosalyn and Loralyn

Early risers to make the trip…..thank you.

My Nexus friends – not necessary to count the number of years this breakfast

club has been a support group for me, but I am so thankful for the good and

lasting friendships – thanks to all of you who are here today as well.

Early on, son Kent began to number my lectures…

His not so subtle way of reminding me there might be too many of them.

I think this was lecture # 432 – B

“TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN, MUCH IS EXPECTED”

It is disconcerting when the children grow up and

Remind us of our early lectures. I have been given much.

And my drive to achieve, my passion for making a difference

My desire to bring others along with me -­? has been my way of giving back.

More blessings!

Son Kent – wife Kim, granddaughters,

Kelsey, Kallen, Karsen and Kennedy.

These young women fuel my optimism and enthusiasm for the future.

“YOU GO, GIRLS!”

Daughter Krista and husband Scott,

Here today from Dallas to join in the celebration

Krista and I are authoring a book together.

One of life’s great pleasures,

The kids grow up and you LIKE THEM!

Husband Kay,

After 51 years,

“The Wind Beneath My Wings”

He is my hero, I can fly higher than an eagle –

you are the wind beneath my wings!

My recent experience as a US Ambassador caused us to live outside the

country for several years

A great adventure that gave us a new appreciation for America and for Iowa.

How thankful I am for the opportunity to grow up and live in this place.

Here is what I believe:

Iowa is the America we grew up believing in…

It is hope and caring for each other.

It is freedom bought by hard work and integrity.

It is the belief that the future will be better than today

IF WE MAKE IT THAT WAY.

Iowa is the place where the dream still works.

I have been given the opportunity to live that dream

and I hope to continue doing so.

I close with an old Swedish Proverb – a thought for the future.

“FEAR LESS, HOPE MORE; EAT LESS, CHEW MORE;

WHINE LESS, BREATHE MORE; TALK LESS, SAY MORE;

HATE LESS, LOVE MORE; AND ALL GOOD THINGS WILL BE OURS”.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to making this day possible….