From the Director

Hello Neighbor

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Hello, Neighbor! I want to let you know that I'm happy to water your plants while you’re out of town. I can take in your mail, too, and shovel if it snows. I’m here if you need help, and to let you know if you’ve left a light on inside your car. I will do all this and more because, like Wisconsinites and people across the country, I care about my neighbors and I’m happy to lend a hand.

From the Director

Finding Home

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Erika Monroe-Kane

Brrrrr… here we go again, turning to the coziness of our homes as the season changes. For me, as a new empty nester, my experience at home is also changing.

From the Director

By

Erika Monroe-Kane

We move into the summer, a season cherished for a slower pace, reveling in the outdoors, and leisure time with those we love.

From the Director

Making Home

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Erika Monroe-Kane

There is a spot in my house where I sit. I can look out at my neighbor’s garden and get a peek at Lake Monona, the lamp behind me hits my book just right, and there is a place to set my tea.

From the Director

Lesson Learned

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Erika Monroe-Kane

I recall when I moved to Wisconsin, having been raised as a city girl, I knew no one who hunted. I was completely unfamiliar with hunting culture.

From the Director

Bloom to Birds

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Erika Monroe-Kane

I love how taking a moment to literally smell the flowers can be a simple joy, an existential experience—a way to boost your brain chemistry.

From the Director

Poetry in Bloom

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Erika Monroe-Kane

Spring emerges and we can’t help but have a lighter step, feel encouraged as color brightens the landscape, and enjoy moments lingering outside. I am particularly grateful to be a part of the Academy this spring.

From the Director

The More Things Change

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Erika Monroe-Kane

Often when we go through transitions, we discover that with the new reality comes a reinforcement of our core principles or values. As fall has arrived, my focus has been on change—in my personal life and at the Academy.

From the Director

By

Erika Monroe-Kane

A key focus of mine over the past year has been outreach and relationship building across Wisconsin. As I have been meeting people around the state, I have had many conversations about what matters to them and what they value in the Academy.

From the Director

Shining a Light on the Writers Among Us

By

Erika Monroe-Kane

Finding common values, making connections, and fostering collaboration are at the heart of our work at the Academy.

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From the Director