Utah Valley Magazine's first issue was published in 2000, dedicated to sharing the community stories that make you laugh, cry, celebrate or connect. As an avid fan, I was honored and humbled to be on the cover of their recent annual Women's Issue.
What began as an acceptance to be featured, turned into hours of what appropriately felt like "girl talk" with the editor, Jeanette Bennett. Jeanette was interested in highlighting my story as the first female mayor in Provo. What we realized is we are just two busy women, raising families, serving our communities and doing what we love.
The highlight of this experience was, without a doubt, joining the amazing women also featured in the magazine for a ladies lunch at (notTucanos) Rodizio Grill. Each woman was asked to introduce themselves by sharing their last three texts, in what became a humorous and insightful way to realize we all have one thing in common: we are all busily leading our best lives, and doing it with grace. The accomplishments of each of these women is impressive and motivating.
We all enjoyed the creativity and humor of Michelle Shepherd (p. 36) who turns yard trash into art. Whether it's a giraffe, a dinosaur or a flamingo, Michelle will brighten up the day with her creations.
Alina Fong (p. 40) is wrangling kids and leading groundbreaking research into concussion treatments. Her facility, Cognitive FX, is the only facility of its kind, with patients traveling from every continent and almost all 50 states for their neuroimaging technology.
How about two friends who decided to share their love of massage therapy and become business partners, as well? Both Katrina Long and Sam Butler (p. 59) brought their own industry experience and health issues to a new life mantra, "relax, repair, restore". Who couldn't use more of those three Rs in their life?
In getting to know one another, we realized we had four women who were also serving in elected office and were able to share the challenges and joys of public service. The luncheon ended as it had begun: with women supporting each other and celebrating successes.
A day well spent!