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Outlander – Love It!

Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series has captivated readers since the release of the first book in 1991. Combining elements of historical fiction, romance, and time travel, Gabaldon’s saga spans several centuries and engages readers with its rich storytelling and well-researched historical detail.

The series follows Claire Randall, a former World War II nurse who finds herself mysteriously transported back to 1743 Scotland. There, she encounters the dashing Highland warrior Jamie Fraser, leading to a passionate love story that transcends time.

The “Outlander” novels are celebrated for their vivid characters and intricate plots. Gabaldon’s meticulous attention to historical accuracy immerses readers in the tumultuous political landscape of 18th-century Scotland.

Themes of love, loyalty, and resilience are woven throughout the narrative, making the characters’ journeys both compelling and relatable. The series has grown to include ten books. Each installment exploring different periods and historical events, including the Jacobite risings and the American Revolutionary War.

In 2014, the “Outlander” books were adapted into a television series by Starz, bringing Gabaldon’s vivid world to life. The show has gained a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its stunning cinematography, authentic period costumes, and exceptional performances.

Caitriona Balfe portrays Claire Randall, delivering a powerful performance that captures Claire’s strength and vulnerability. Sam Heughan stars as Jamie Fraser, bringing charisma and depth to his role as the iconic Highlander.

The television adaptation stays true to the spirit of the books while introducing new elements to enhance the storytelling. The chemistry between Balfe and Heughan is profound, and their on-screen relationship has been a focal point of the series, resonating with fans around the world. The show’s ability to blend romance with historical drama has contributed to its widespread popularity.

Each season of the show corresponds to a book in the series, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the source material. The meticulous attention to detail in both the novels and the series has earned “Outlander” a place in the hearts of viewers and readers alike.

Beyond the romance and adventure, “Outlander” also delves into significant historical events and the complexities of human relationships. The series encourages viewers to reflect on themes of identity, belonging, and the consequences of choices made across time.

Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series and its television adaptation have created a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences. Check out the 2025 TV prequel “Blood of My Blood,” focusing on Claire’s and Jaime’s parents.

The combination of rich storytelling, historical depth, and passionate romance ensures that both the books and the show will remain beloved for years to come. Whether through the pages of the novels or the stunning visuals of the series, “Outlander” invites fans on an unforgettable journey through time.

For more reading inspiration check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Spring Holidays

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and celebration in many cultures. Around the world, various holidays mark the arrival of spring, symbolizing rebirth and hope. Easter is one of the most prominent spring holidays, celebrated by Christians globally.

Other cultures also observe significant spring-related festivals. These celebrations, often tied to the changing seasons, provide insight into the rich diversity of traditions and beliefs that mark this time of year.

Easter: A Christian Celebration

Easter is one of the most important holidays in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The holiday is observed in various ways depending on cultural traditions, but common elements include church services, festive meals, and the decoration of eggs, which symbolize new life.

In the United States and many Western countries, Easter is marked by egg hunts, where children search for hidden eggs, often filled with candy.

Eastern European countries like Poland and Ukraine, have Easter eggs painted in a tradition known as “pysanky.” In Greece, Easter celebrations include midnight church services followed by feasts that last through the night, featuring traditional foods like lamb and dyed red eggs.

Passover: A Jewish Festival of Freedom

In the Jewish tradition, “Passover” often coincides with the spring season. This holiday commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. The festival is marked by a Seder, a special meal where symbolic foods are eaten, such as matzah (unleavened bread) and bitter herbs.

The Seder includes storytelling, prayers, and songs, helping Jewish families remember the hardships of their ancestors and celebrate the arrival of spring with renewed hope.

Holi: India’s Festival of Colors

In India and Nepal, the arrival of spring is celebrated with **Holi**, also known as the Festival of Colors. This Hindu festival, rooted in ancient traditions, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of the spring harvest.

Participants throw colored powders at each other, dance, and feast, symbolizing the vibrancy of the season. Holi is also a time for forgiveness, with people repairing relationships and embracing the renewal of spring.

Nowruz: The Persian New Year

For over 3,000 years, “Nowruz,” or the Persian New Year, has been celebrated across parts of the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond. This ancient holiday, which marks the first day of spring is deeply rooted in Zoroastrian traditions.

Nowruz is celebrated with family gatherings, the cleaning of homes (known as spring cleaning.)  The preparation of a traditional “Haft-Seen” table. This includes seven items representing health, prosperity, and fertility.

Songkran: Thailand’s Water Festival

In Thailand, “Songkran” is the Thai New Year’s festival, celebrated in mid-April. It marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. Songkran is most famously known for its water fights. People splash each other with water as a way to cleanse and refresh for the new year. Water also symbolizes the washing away of past misfortunes and a blessing for the future.

Spring celebrations around the world share common themes of renewal, hope, and rebirth, but each culture adds its unique flavor to these festivals. These holidays reflect the diverse ways in which people embrace the changing of the seasons.

They remind us of the universal human desire for growth, connection, and renewal as the world emerges from winter’s grasp.

Check out my website for more: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Read Fiction

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone
Credit: American Library Association

Reading fiction books plays a vital role in personal development and emotional well-being. Fiction transports readers to different worlds and experiences. This escapism allows individuals to break free from everyday stress and routine.

Fiction stimulates imagination and creativity. Engaging with diverse characters and settings encourages readers to think outside the box. It fosters empathy by allowing readers to see the world through others’ eyes. Understanding different perspectives is essential in our interconnected society.

Moreover, fiction promotes critical thinking skills. Readers often encounter complex plots and characters, prompting them to analyze motivations and themes. This mental engagement can sharpen cognitive abilities and enhance problem-solving skills.

Many people enjoy fiction for its emotional significance. Stories evoke a wide range of feelings, from joy to sorrow. This emotional connection can provide comfort and validation. Readers often find solace in characters facing similar challenges or triumphs.

Fiction also serves as a spark for conversation. Many books start discussions about important social issues and human experiences. These conversations can foster connections among friends, family, and book clubs.

Furthermore, fiction can serve as a source of inspiration. Characters overcoming obstacles and achieving their dreams can motivate readers to pursue their own goals. This sense of hope can be transformative.

In addition, the act of reading itself offers relaxation. Curling up with a good book can be a soothing escape. It allows individuals to unwind and recharge after a long day. If you have a library card it’s easy to check out print and eBooks to satisfy any reader.

Reading fiction is important for emotional well-being, creativity, and critical thinking. People enjoy fiction for its escapism, emotional depth, and ability to inspire conversation. Embracing fiction enriches lives and cultivates a deeper understanding of the human experience.

For more reading inspiration check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Growth Mindset

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Learning from mistakes and adopting a growth mindset are important for achieving success in both personal and professional goals. Embracing these principles not only increases resilience but also fosters continuous improvement and development.

A growth mindset, a concept popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. Individuals with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles. This perspective encourages them to take risks and embrace new experiences, knowing that mistakes are part of the learning process.

Mistakes, while often viewed negatively, are valuable learning opportunities. When individuals make errors, they gain insights that can lead to better decision-making in the future. Instead of dwelling on failures, those with a growth mindset analyze what went wrong and why. This reflective process encourages a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. This allows them to adjust their strategies and methods moving forward.

Furthermore, learning from mistakes promotes resilience. Instead of feeling defeated by setbacks, individuals can cultivate a sense of perseverance. Each mistake can be reframed as a stepping stone toward success. This resilience is essential in a world where challenges and failures are unavoidable. By developing the ability to bounce back, individuals can maintain motivation and continue working toward their goals.

A growth mindset also encourages a love of learning. Individuals become curious and open to feedback, seeking out opportunities for growth and improvement. This eagerness to learn can lead to the development of new skills and a deeper understanding of one’s field. As individuals continue to expand their knowledge and abilities, they position themselves for greater success.

In addition, cultivating a growth mindset promotes collaboration and support among peers. When individuals are open about their mistakes and willing to learn from each other, it creates an environment of trust and innovation. Team members are more likely to share ideas and take risks, leading to collective growth and success.

Learning from mistakes and embracing a growth mindset are vital for achieving success. By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, individuals can develop resilience, foster a love of learning, and enhance collaboration. This approach not only leads to personal development but also contributes to a more innovative and dynamic environment. This sets the stage for lasting success in your career and personal life.

For more check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Exploring Chicago

Flying to my travel spot!
The window seat is the best view.

Chicago comes alive in spring, offering plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. The city’s parks, architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods make it a must-visit travel destination. I’ve visited Chicago for work and pleasure many times, and these are my top sites to see.

Millennium Park and Cloud Gate

Millennium Park is a top destination in Chicago. It’s home to the famous Cloud Gate, also called “The Bean.” This reflective sculpture draws crowds, perfect for photos and relaxing nearby. In spring, the park’s greenery and flowers bloom, creating a beautiful setting for outdoor walks. The flowers are truly amazing for any photographer!

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best art museums in the world. Its impressive collection includes famous works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Spring is a great time to visit, with special exhibitions often hosted during this season. Art students can be seen during the school year sketching and enjoying the works.

Stroll Along the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk offers a scenic place to enjoy the city’s stunning architecture. Springtime brings comfortable temperatures for walking along the river. Cafés and restaurants along the Riverwalk open up in the spring, making it a great spot for lunch. Don’t forget the rooftop restaurants that offer a magnificent view of the city as well.

Chicago Architecture Tour

Spring is the perfect time for a Chicago architecture boat tour. This popular attraction provides a unique perspective of the city’s skyscrapers. The guided tours offer fascinating details about Chicago’s architectural history while you cruise along the Chicago River. I’ve taken this tour and walked away with a new appreciation of the city’s buildings and history.

Navy Pier and Lakefront Views

Navy Pier is a lively destination with attractions, shops, and restaurants. In spring, the pier becomes especially vibrant with seasonal events and outdoor entertainment. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan from the pier’s Ferris wheel or simply stroll along its promenade.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., and is free to visit. Spring is an ideal time to explore its exhibits, with animals more active in mild weather. The surrounding park is also beautiful, with flowers blooming and fresh greenery.

Magnificent Mile Shopping

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping district. Springtime brings great window displays and outdoor events to this iconic area. You’ll find everything from luxury brands to unique local shops.  Just window shopping is a treat down this iconic Chicago street.

Chicago offers an exciting mix of culture, history, and entertainment. In spring, the city’s parks, attractions, and neighborhoods provide countless opportunities to explore. Whether admiring art, cruising the river, or enjoying the outdoors, Chicago is an unforgettable destination this season.  Book your trip and enjoy the weather and sites with your family.

Check out more on my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Experiencing Spain

Flying to my travel spot!
The window seat is the best view.

My recent trip to Spain this year was an eye-opening experience! Not just from a travel perspective, rather experiencing a foreign country gave me hope along with new stories to tell.

Future Advances

Visiting Spain allowed me to see the results of future advances in transportation, crowd management, and lifestyle.  The public transportation system in Spain, especially Barcelona, is easy to navigate and ADA-friendly. With elevators at most stops, recessed curbs, and clean stations locals use the tram, train, and subway (Metro) lines exclusively. Plus, there was a high percentage of electric vehicles, which meant less petrol (gas) stations, smog, and noise.

The tourist sites, while busy, were easily managed with online pre-ticketed sales. No ticket, no entry if the quota for the day was already met. On top of that, residents were very friendly and kind despite my 2 years of high school Spanish. Citizens were helpful and took pride in their city and professions.  You got a feeling of National pride from the Spanish people which resonated the entire trip.

History Revisited

The history dates back to Roman Times, 300 B.C. Spain’s rich history has held space for wars, communism, and the monarchy. Today, the future Queen of Spain is in her second year of military service to her country. The archives, architecture, and lessons learned have not been without growing pains or evolution. But the evolution is present and felt throughout your interactions with people.

The population is concentrated in the cities, but a vast agricultural community keeps the food prices reasonable and fresh. I’ve never tasted such sweet tomatoes or such rich creamy butter. Plus, eggs were $2.85 a dozen! There’s something to say for their proximity to other European resources, and it shows in the Spanish food.

Finally, I would say from a travel perspective it provided hope for me personally. To see a thriving country, with low food costs, a content nation, and smart innovations for their citizens. I can see why many foreigners flock to Spain to experience the lifestyle. And why taxes are levied to keep the cities clean and stabilized. Put Spain on your travel list this year, and you won’t regret it.

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Listening is Important

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

Listening skills are probably the most important skill behind reading. Learning to listen, and actively hear what is said is also essential. Below are steps to take if you need help listening to what people REALLY say to you.

Active Listening

Active listening is hearing the other person for understanding. However, most of us listen to be able to react or frame a response quickly. Don’t do that!  Don’t listen for yourself to answer, listen to understand. You will gain far more insight into your speaker, by letting them talk. Hear what words they choose and how they say those words. Active listening takes effort, but you learn far more about what’s said when you are engaged and hearing the other person.

Body language

So, you’re probably thinking, but I’m on the phone, and can’t “see” my speaker. But you can! Listen for inflection, tone, and the speed of the speaker’s speech. Usually, someone upset or in “fight mode” will speak quickly and emotionally. Someone calm and measured in their speech is under control of their emotions. When you are at work, even remotely, you can listen and pick up ques in the person’s speech.

A rational speaker is usually easier to understand motive, even over a phone call. Body language goes beyond “seeing” the speaker but again actively listening to “how” the speaker is engaging with you.

Responding After Listening

You are now asking, so when DO I need to respond? If you have an upset friend and listening to them about a bad experience, sometimes never. No response is a response in this type of situation. As humans, we want to solve problems, but sometimes it’s best to just listen. Listening with an open mind and heart to fully understand the other person takes a lot of effort.

And sometimes you might never understand the person’s motives or true feelings, but you were there for them. Sometimes just being a friend and confidante is all that is needed in the moment, and active listening is key.

Practice makes permanent, so try just listening for a change. Don’t interrupt and truly listen to the other person on the phone, on Zoom, or sitting with you. The more you practice actively listening, reading body language, and understanding your listener the better you become.

For more living well tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Travel

Travel Smart

Single hand holding a small book in a library.
Read up and start opening up your mind.

If you’re curious what the best books and resources a traveling librarian recommends, read on. From choosing your destination to memoirs, pick the smartest resources that will meet your travel needs and help you navigate your trip.

Travel Guides – Think Maps

As a visual learner, who loves photos, I enjoy DK Eyewitness Travel books. These travel titles always have helpful maps and tons of current pictures.  The location is researched and updated almost yearly and many of the books can be checked out at your library!  Library cards are free of charge, and many books can also be renewed. So, take your travel guide with you and have a free resource at your fingertips. Check out other locations before you travel by visiting your local library, and the travel guides available.

Memoirs on Travel

If you’re the type of traveler, who wants to experience a place you’ve read about, then check out these books. Loosely based on the writers’ personal experiences, you’ll also get a true feel of the destination before you travel.  “Under the Tuscan Sun” is a transformative book about Italy and finding yourself. Another book, “Eat, Pray, Love” also set in Italy explores the regional cuisine. You get the idea. Visit your library, and search “travel fiction” and you will be surprised how many novels based on real life travel exist.

Elephant Journal Website

This website is a writer’s haven, and I love posting my travel articles here. There is also a treasure trove of travel experiences and ideas available for trips. What makes Elephant Journal unique is it’s also a free resource with a very personal spin on the experiences. Just search for Travel or Family Travel and articles will appear that meet your criteria. I’ve personally learned some great ideas for winter travel and unique destinations. Learning  about different travel adventures or hidden gems during a trip is what you’ll find by reading Elephant Journal.

Word of Mouth

Finally, ask your friends, family, and coworkers where they’ve gone and enjoyed the most. Word of Mouth has been the best resource to learn about kid friendly spots and the times of year to travel. Be aware that someone’s best vacation, might not be yours. So, go into your travel discussions with an open mind and expectations that suit your family and travel budget. Your best vacation might be just around the corner after that business lunch. Enjoy and safe travels!