Meet my neighbor Joan (pronounced Jo-Ann). 

Joan has lived in her home since 1966. 

She has raised her family here, tirelessly volunteers (I keep forgetting to ask her how many places she volunteers at –  is it 12 or 20?!) is so delightful, curious and remembers everything. The other day when a tree fell on top of a neighbor’s roof, (no one was hurt), she recalled the hot summer day 23 years ago when a particular roofer replaced the roof!

Just as Joan finished this complicated wood puzzle that was a Valentine’s gift earlier this month from my Mom, she gifted me a new one – right in time for March 2023 Women’s History Month.

It’s a pretty cool puzzle – with known and not so well known women.

It reminded me that celebrating women for all of their accomplishments (big, small, historical, or unrecognized) is important.

I celebrate Joan for living with heart every single day.
Doing the little things that may go unnoticed but make a big difference to the people who are touched by them.

I celebrate Susan B Anthony for walking in bravery.
There was an article I read a while back about how Susan B Anthony traveled to then remote Lake City, Colorado in 1877 to speak on the topic of Women’s Suffrage, the right of women to vote in elections.

The physical toll of the train, stagecoach, and horse journey was daunting in and of itself.  I was struck by the audacity and courage she had.  Standing in front of a predominantly male audience challenging their values…that took serious ovaries!

Her influence and impact in creating legislation for The Right for Women to Vote is just one example of the tributes provided by her and other women that allow for the lifestyle and choices I enjoy today. The 19th Amendment, which legally guarantees American women the right to vote, was ratified on August 18, 1920.

I also celebrate another inspiration, 97 year old German gymnast, Johanna Quaas, for defying what’s possible.

She is jaw dropping amazing. 

Johanna’s commitment and passion are incredible.  Three years ago, I decided that I was going to live until the age of 156.  Johanna is proof this is seriously possible!

In the spirit of Women’s History Month, I’d love to hear of a particular woman that has inspired and influenced your life.

Maybe she is someone who isn’t famous but has made a huge impact on your life.
Maybe she’s a figure you look up to or are grateful for the way she changed the course of history.
Maybe she’s an inspiration, someone you live in awe of.

I am in awe of the women I encounter in my business all of the time – my clients are doing amazing things in their families, communities, and work.

If you have women in your life who are doing big things – retiring early to spend more time with family, taking their skills to the next level as an independent consultant, or starting their own venture – and need a health plan that fits their lifestyle, I’m here to be their biggest advocate.

So here’s to celebrating the women in your lives!

Live Well,

Mary Hunt