About Pat

Here is a place where you can come to get a lift for the day, perhaps, a little insight to carry you through onto the next adventure of your life. A place where I’ll share a story, perhaps a thought and some reflections and we’ll meet somewhere in the middle. I like to think of it as a gathering around the kitchen table late at night when everything is still and the world has quieted down to rest. Occupation: Writer, blogger, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and one learning and sharing stories in my life. Location: Bailey, CO Introduction: 2007 Plain Talk and Ordinary Wisdom came out of Wisdom for the Ages, which was born in the corporate world where I gave workshops and facilitated talking-stick discussion groups. When my employer closed their site in 2002 and relocated back East, I took it outside corporate giving presentations as a speaker at Kiwanis, Mile High Sales Professionals, CWEE (Center for Work, Education and Employment) and Business Honoring Spirituality meetings. I also led weekly discussion groups at Morningstar Assisted Living Center. I am passionate about creating a safe environment where people can put aside their differences, share their experiences and wisdom without being right or wrong and benefit from truly listening to one another. It all started with inspiration from a quote from Ram Dass in his book, "Still Here": ….”when there is true surrender and service between people, the roles of helper and helped and the boundaries between those in power and those who are powerless begin to dissolve.”

A Special Thank You ― Dragon’s Loyalty Award

Dragon's Loyalty Award

Dragon’s Loyalty Award

I was happy and surprised when I saw that Sherri Matthews at “A View From My Summerhouse” gave mention to my site for an award and nominated me for this Dragon’s Loyalty Award.

I had never seen it before. It is beautiful and I am extremely grateful and truly honored to be listed as one of her nominees. I’ve recently gotten to know Sherri through photographs, stories and poems.

Though, I haven’t traveled much. I enjoy taking these journeys with her down the wooded paths of the UK, as well as reading about what is going on in her life ― family, her values and struggles.  Continue reading

God Bless our Troops ― Thank You!

Today, we celebrate Veteran’s Day honoring our soldiers that are serving and have served to protect the United States. In tribute to many that have put their lives on the line, both young and old, for the freedoms we share.

To all veterans, from the bottom of my heart, I salute you and say THANK YOU!

May God Bless You and your families!

Pat from the ol’ kitchen table

Letting Go of “Love Lane”

aspens along road

Photo © 2013 by Pat Ruppel

I notice the more I write ― the more is released. There are parts of me I’ve tucked away long ago that bubble up and can no longer push down.

In writing, I get the chance to let it go, when I commit to what has shown up. It certainly was the case, when I wrote this story, “Love Lane”.  Continue reading

Digiprove sealCopyright secured by Digiprove © 2013 Pat Ruppel

Boo! What Scares You?

Halloween is only a few days away and, everywhere, we see scary costumes, corn-field mazes and spooky ghost houses. It’s a fun time for kids and adults to let go and pretend.

Two Pumpkins carved into Jack-o-Lanterns for Halloween

Two Pumpkins carved into Jack-o-Lanterns for Halloween © MSN Clipart

It’s also the season, when we’re more acceptable of the world of the paranormal. Perhaps, we’re even open to tune in and listen for something beyond what we normally hear and see.  Continue reading

Awards – Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

I remember last year, when I received my first blogger award. I didn’t know there was such a thing for writing and posting on a blog. I was ecstatic, giddy, and felt like a little girl getting a new surprise.

Since then, I’ve met so many talented and inspiring fellow bloggers. I still feel happy and elated, when I receive an award, and have been blessed in this blogging community some 10 times now.  What an honor!  Continue reading