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Spring 2025 Inspire(d) Editor’s Letter

By Aryn Henning Nichols | Spring 2025 Inspire(d)

Spring 2025 Inspire(d)

Tulips continue to grow, even after they’re cut. Did you know that?! 

I love this about tulips. I love that something that’s been literally cut off from its normal state of life and plopped into another still decides to reach for the sun, seeking the light.

We, too, can keep seeking the light and growing in challenging times. Our theme this issue centers around this idea, and the question: What’s the best that could happen? Our mental health section delves into self-fulfilling prophesies, best-case scenarios, and facing fears. My hope is that readers will find courage in challenging times, and the bravery to believe in better days ahead.

In the ever-oscillating desire to be informed but not be overwhelmed, sometimes we just need to find things that make us happy. That’s a big goal for cover artist Hannah Tulgren: She wants her artwork to bring people joy. Goal achieved, because this cover is brightening my life, for sure.

Rad cover art by Hannah Tulgren

Finding joy can be tough. People are feeling overlooked right now. Not heard. Like there’s no path forward. But community builders work to counteract that, giving folks a place to belong, and a place where their voice is not lost in the void. Ryan and Allie Palmer help instigate that community belonging at Paddle On Coffee and Maker’s Emporium in Lanesboro, Minnesota. And Bobbi Rathert in La Crosse, Wisconsin, tries to broaden perspectives – for herself and others – about marginalized groups, in turn, building communities for and within communities. Because supporting others is vital to a thriving society. 

One thing I’ve been wanting to do is support the younger generation. As a parent to an almost-teenager, I’m seeing how wise these young adults can be, and how rare it is for them to have an outlet for their voices. So, last year, we started our new “Future Focused: Listening to the Next Generation” column. Our daughter, Roxie, was the first contributor (on recommendation of her then-fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Fromm). But the goal was always to open it up to other middle school students as well. Another goal achieved (woot!), because we have three new Future Focused writers in our pages in this issue! Huge thanks to Decorah Middle School Extended Learning Program teacher Dana Hogan, who coordinated and edited with the students who submitted their work to me earlier this year. 

I had to laugh when one of those submissions pokes fun at parents using Gen Z slang, because our paper project this issue does just that. But it’s “Gen Z approved” by our kid, and I reserve the right to design Mother’s Day presents that fit my needs (a nice chocolate bar is always on the wish list).

In the turmoil, life carries on. 

Writer Laura Barlament tells the tale of Spring Grove, Minnesota’s path through history, capturing hearts across generations. 

A fun Sum of Your Business interview with Trisha Houlthaus of Market 52 just north of Decorah reminds us that inspiration can be found anywhere (even in a packed garage).

Conservation writer Craig Thompson jokes that a mushroom is a fun guy at a party…and teaches us about the Fungi Kingdom and the well-loved spring morel.

And our (super inspiring) probit this issue features 105-year-old Marge Costigan, who is still living at home and playing bridge.

Life will surprise you in glorious ways. Be on the lookout for wonder, generosity, and compassion out there, because you will find it, friends. Don’t let the darkness snuff out your light. Keep sharing the bright spots and speaking up for your community. Your voice is important, and we are glad you’re here. Together, we shine.

Looking forward,

Aryn Henning Nichols

In this issue, you’ll find:

What’s the Best That Could Happen? Finding Courage in Challenging Times. Artist Hannah Tulgren • Community Builders – Ryan & Allie Palmer / Lanesboro – Bobbi Rathert / La Crosse • Paper Project: Gen Z Chocolate Bar Wrappers • Infographic: 8 Tips for Finding Courage • Mental Health: Facing Fears • Sum Biz: Trisha Houlthaus / Market 52 • the Fungi Kingdom • Spring Grove – Something in the Water • Probit: Marge Costigan • And More!

Read the whole thing online here:

Listen to our spring Spotify playlist while you read!

Tap into the vibes we were trying to create with the Spring 2025 Inspire(d) Magazine. What’s the best that could happen? Let’s find courage and bravery in challenging times, friends! <3

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