I'm a Southern woman who is done playing by the patriarchal rules governing what "polite society" should talk about. I've survived some of the most horrific *and most common* traumas that a woman in our world experiences – and I've found ways to thrive anyway. SparkleAndSing.com is my open discussion of the lessons that have helped me overcome and grow into the best version of myself: ~ Healing from (and learning from) domestic violence ~ Finding joy and re-establishing that childhood sense of wonder ~ Travel adventures for women (including #solowomentravel) ~ #TravelingWithDogs and still having "me time" ~ The quirky Community of #EurekaSprings (and how to build your own #Community) ~ Practicing self-care and managing #chronicillness & #chronicpain ~ Raising a rescued Dogo Argentino mix named #GusTheDogo ... and more!
My friend and coworker Rhea inspired me to spend more time on the weekends meal-planning for the week. When I do take the time to do it, I eat better and therefore feel better all week – and I’m spending WAY less eating out. One of my favorite… Read MoreGluten-Free Mini-Quiches [No Rolling Pin or Baking Skills Required!]
Legendary horse trainer D. Wayne Lukas Brings His Talent to Oaklawn In the world of horse racing, there are some horses that have earned such a spot in history that even non-racing fans recognize their monikers: Seabiscuit, Secretariat, and Man O’ War are just a… Read MoreThe Odds-On Favorite
This trend of everyone posting “#normalize such-and-such” has been buggin’ me for a while and I just recently figured out why. But first, here’s an idea: We all just do whatever the fuck we need to do to be authentic and at peace — regardless… Read MoreNormalize Huh? Naw, fam
Its Central Midwest Location, Deep and Varied History, and Diverse Attractions Make Springfield a Perfect Exploration Destination A while back I took a wonderful-but-too-short weekend road trip to Springfield, Missouri, the state’s third-largest city with a population of about 160,000. Known as the Queen City… Read MoreSpringfield, Missouri: On the Beaten Path
The Jazz Capital of the World, aka Cowtown, is Packed with Personality, History, Fun, and, yes, Fountains It was just over 50 years ago when Leiber and Stoller wrote the lyrics: “I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come…” The song eventually became… Read MoreKansas City: The City of Fountains
The Kansas City Zoo has won many awards from animal advocacy groups and wildlife organizations – it’s easy to see why when you visit! Kansas City has long been the home of beef, bebop, and BBQ. In 2013, the city welcomed one more “B” to… Read MoreKC Zoo: An Amazing Sanctuary for Animals
If you are a fan of punk rock, jamgrass, gypsy-pop or any combination of those, you’ll love the band slated to perform Thursday (July 29) at George’s Majestic Lounge in Fayetteville and Friday (July 30) at Chelsea’s in Eureka Springs. Ponder The Albatross, formed in… Read MoreDenver-based band with Eureka Springs ties performing in Fayetteville & Eureka this week
Since I moved back to Eureka Springs late last year, everything has seemed new and more magical than I ever noticed before. Every cow looks fuzzier; every mountain, creek, and waterfall possesses more beauty; every event I attend brings more friendly faces offering more heartfelt… Read MoreMeet ‘Gramps’ the neighbor’s Napping Horse
Let’s talk about why I am such a devoted fan of music… Listening to great music can be painful but it is always healing, for me at least.
Hillberry The Harvest Moon Festival 2018, co-hosted by Railroad Earth, has released its first lineup announcement for the October 11-14, 2019, event. Hillberry 5 performers will include Trampled By Turtles, which just announced it is ending a 2-year hiatus this year; the “Father of Newgrass”… Read MoreHillberry Festival 2019 Lineup Part 1 Unveiled