WOMANKIND: Connection & Wisdom Around the World

Remembering….Two Lost Boys

2011-05-30T12:27:00.000-05:00

He was just a little boy
wearing clothes way too big,
probably donated by some well meaning church in America.
He and his friends played in the schoolyard
happily kicking the ball in a game of soccer.

"Hey! NATO”, he called out
to the soldiers stopped in the road near the school.
He waved; shot them a wide grin,
and hitched his falling pants back up to his waist,
then turned to continue his game.

The soldiers, from all the countries,
had become great friends with the children.
Often I saw two or three uniformed men
surrounded by a group of laughing children,
sharing their gum and chocolates or kicking a soccer ball.

I think it's something soldiers have done throughout time.
Make friends with the children, that is.
I recall a picture of my own father
with children in an Asian country,
in another place, another time, another war.

I believe it helps fight the loneliness
the young soldiers feel themselves,
so far away from home
and everything they love,
so far away from their own families.

He was just a boy himself,
not yet able to buy himself a drink.
He stood straight and tall in his dusty green fatigues,
the required machine gun slung
casually over his shoulder.

He waved to the group of children
playing soccer in the schoolyard.
Some stopped their play and ran to join him
and the other soldiers standing on the roadside,
hugging their peace protecting weapons.

The details were foggy.
Rumors abounded.
No one knew what really happened.
Everyone had an opinion, but
no one could say for certain.

Whatever actually did happen on
that Tuesday afternoon in the village Sllatina,
while the children played happily in the schoolyard,
profoundly affected two lives
and the lives of their families forever.

A shot was heard.
The little boy in the baggy britches fell.
A pool of blood appeared almost instantly
staining his shapeless shirt
A dark and viscid crimson.

The soldiers ran toward the fallen boy
and swept him away immediately
rushed him to the medical base.
But the child was gone already.
Instantly, they said, from the moment he fell.

And two family’s lives forever changed --
the family of the little soccer player,
and the family of the young soldier
who will never be able to forget
that day the shots rang out.

When they told me the story, I recalled that little boy,
his wide smile, his baggy britches.
His bright and cheerful wave.
He called me “NATO” too,
just like all the other Americans.
Such a poignant country, Kosovo.
Touched by tragedy even in peacetime.
And today I wear a scar deep, in my center,
where my own heart cracked open and spilled to the ground
on a Tuesday, in the village Sllatina.

Nancy Leigh Harless
Written on a Tuesday 2000

Joe Taylor Creek in the Night

2011-05-17T23:04:00.003-05:00

We came to see the bio-phosphorescence -- that amazing phenomena of light producing plankton in the brackish water where salt and fresh water mix. We dragged our kayaks through the fetid mud of the mangrove. To me it smelled foul, but Anne, my friend and guide, assured me that was just the odor of a working Mangrove doing it’s job of breaking down organic material. But wait a minute, I thought to myself, isn’t that precisely what a septic tank does?

Joe Taylor Creek was small – only 50 feet wide at the start, soon narrowing to only 15 feet -- barely room to do a turn around with our kayaks. As we paddled up-creek, the lush rainforest closed in, around, and above us like a think green cocoon. The ropelike vines hung high above and dropped into the water beside us like something out of a Tarzan movie. On the creek bank, tiny pencil thin roots pushed up out of the ground packed together tightly as warp on a carpet. This was the “White” mangrove. Roots from the trees along both banks come out of the water forming cage-like structures with little crabs scurrying up and down the roots. This was the “Red” mangrove. I found myself hoping that one of those little crabs wouldn’t fall into my kayak.

Night was falling and the mosquitoes and other attacking bugs had come out in full force, buzzing and dive-bombing looking for fresh white meat. Night sounds began – the crickets, the frogs, the birds and those indistinguishable sounds of night of something there in the brush, just outside my field of vision.

I was in Punta Gorda as a volunteer. With more than a half of a century of life experience, I was realizing a lifelong dream of opening a clinic in a third world country. However, the sweltering weather and primitive living conditions coupled with the disparities of Belize time versus North American time as a daily source of frustration had stolen my sense of wonder of the beauty of the country, not to mention my sense of humor. It had almost stolen my dream.

But, this night Anne promised spectacular phenomena we could not see when we return to our Midwestern home, so we put work aside and came to partake in the phosphorescent light show. She guaranteed a display I wouldn’t easily forget. She was absolutely right.

As darkness settled around us, we paddled by the light of the stars and the crescent moon that could hold water. At first I could see only a few sparkles as I moved my kayak through the water. Stirring the water by hand brought a few more flickers. I was disappointed. I came expecting fireworks. “It’s not yet dark enough, Anne explained, be patient.”

Just as promised, later, when night grew pitch-black night around us, the spectacle began. Brilliant fluorescent balls of fire rolled off my paddle as I stroked. When I dipped my hand into the water, sparkling droplets fell like diamonds from my fingers. Leaning over the side of my kayak and looking deep into the water below I saw twinkling beads of light glittering as if a miniature Milky Way were beneath me.

As I stroked my paddle though the water a magical ripple of light followed the stroke like a wave in slow motion. My perception was altered. I was another dimension. Time stood still. There was a miracle happening in the water right under my kayak. I was mesmerized by the sensual quality to the movement of the lights. As I drew circles in the water with my finger, a ring of fire appeared. B

But all too soon, sadly, it was time to go. I reluctantly paddled back down the creek to the place where it meets the sea. We crossed the Bay of Honduras. The sea rocked me gently as I paddled in silence, breathing to the rhythm of the rise and the fall of the gentle ancient Caribbean.

The magic was over, but I was awestruck. I had witnessed a miracle. From that night forward I have known with great certainty, that whenever I feel annoyed with life’s little discomforts or frustrations, whether I am in a village in Belize, or in my own Midwestern home, I can simply close my eyes, let my spirit soar and remember that night when time stood still, as I played with the glittering, glistening, Saint Elmo’s fire of Joe Taylor Creek in the night.

It puts everything into perspective.

by Nancy Leigh Harless

Sun Worshippers

2011-05-15T17:55:00.001-05:00

A row of sleepy-eyed sun worshippers,
like vain old women, draped
across Adirondack lounges,
necks craned to avoid wrinkling,
or getting a tan line.

Noses slightly upturned,
all superior and snotty,
leather-skinned turtles
stretch across a craggy log,
and work on their tans.

by Nancy Leigh Harless

By Dawn's Early Light

2011-05-11T15:36:00.001-05:00

Awaken to the sound of silence
enveloping dull brown fields, natal
with the green down of next Fall’s harvest.

A lemon orb breaks over the black
skeletons of leafless hardwood trees.
The sky waters silk a thousand shades
                                                           orcherous
                                                                   amesthyine
                                                                             sanguine.
And in that single moment,
more significant than the day itself,
you are gifted with Knowing…
                      and your cup overflows.

By Nancy Leigh Harless

Little Andu

2010-12-18T20:38:00.006-06:00

On Meeting Andu at the Dichee Orphanage

Little Andu with smile so wide,
ruddy cheeks hint of a happy child,
but your dark almond eyes own a sorrow
no child should understand.

Count to ten on fingers
bitten to the quick.
Recite your ABC’s.
Lead me by your tiny hand
to a musky sweet kitchen.
Rice boils on the black wood stove.

Take me to the room filled
with rows of metal beds,
your own shared with yet another
lice-infected, head-shorn little girl.

You stand so tall against the yardstick, taped
to the rough wooden door.
Your shaved scalp tickles my hand
as I measure, announce, ‘thirty-five inches,”
and silently add of pure humanity.

Your tiny hands pull on my arm
and at my heart
toward a rusty case holding
a mangy black dog big enough to ride.

Pulled by the fear of failure,
Pushed by a need to please,
You whisper a single English word – “dog,”
peek up from the corner of your slant eyes;
and hope for words of praise from this
pale skinned grandmother of another world.

Little Andu, your arms squeezed around
my neck when time to say good-bye.
Your rough head prickled my chest; burned
a little girl-sized hole that lingers today
and I remember…..

Little Andu with smile so wide,
ruddy cheeks hint of a happy child,
but dark almond eyes hold a sorrow
no child should understand.

By Nancy Leigh Harless

Sleeping Around

2010-11-30T10:48:00.001-06:00

My Grandaughter

She twists and turns in the darkness,

sheets coil and contort in her wake

until I am splayed and drawn, quartered

by the magnetic wires that bind generations,

until the wire threatens to snap and slash

the progeny who is my nemesis.

I reach through night’s dark shroud,

place my palm on her small sweet chest…and breathe.

My Gray-Haired Lover

We rest a matched set of spoons fused

by love and living: shared memories, shared

dreams, shared name. His quiet breath,

a butterfly kiss, tickles my ear until I stretch,

back arching, roll onto my stomach breaking spoon’s seal.

He stirs, turns onto his back in slow motion moan,

He reaches through night’s dark veil,

a work-worn hand cups my buttock….and he sighs.

My Favorite Pooch

His small self presses against the hollow of my back,

fused by with a weld that assures I am not alone.

When midnight blasts of fiesta fireworks rouse,

he circles ’round three times, curls his lean body

into a tight “C” and flops into a heap at my side.

I reach through night’s dark curtain,

touch the tiny rump against my side,

pat three times …and sigh.

My Grandson

He sleeps, perchance to dream of damsels and noble knights.

I lay side-by-side my Celtic youngling, a boy of courage and honor,

suffer the wrath of this small chivalrous knight, resolved to slay

the mythic dragon that snores near his ear. The slap of a gauntlet glove,

a mace to the kidney, a flail to my head! I stir. Pelted half-awake

I hear his battle cry: “Take that you filthy beast!”

I roll to the bed’s edge, reach across night's battle scene,

place my hand on his small, gallant head ….and nod.

My Mother

She sleeps, in tomblike silence in somnolent, silken repose.

We lay together, covered by a cotton quilt, hand-stitched

by her own mother many years ago when she was just a girl.

I awaken to unnatural stillness – night silent as a sepulcher,

no sound from my mute mother: not a whisper, not a sigh ,

nor the small, soft wheeze of breath’s inspiration.

I reach through night’s indigo blanket, gently shake

a boney shoulder until she gulps a small gasped growl…..and I smile.

Alone in My Tree House

I lay, a laggard in a hammock, atop a maple tree,

listen to soft summer sounds hum in harmony.
Leaves, a river floating, swirl into child-deep-sleep,
lulling introspection - thoughts superficial; thoughts profound,
I dream through green leaf filters, and smile as I recall,

all the many different ones of you with whom …. I’ve slept around.

Be the Sparrow

2010-11-29T08:46:00.003-06:00

         One Note Wonder
     The sun had been up for an hour stealing morning’s chill. I had shared a solitude sunrise with a cup of coffee high in a tree, in the tree house built by my husband - complete with a “NO BOYS ALLOWED” sign.
     A lone sparrow lit on an overhead branch, settled himself, and began to sing. Treeeeat! Treeeeat! Treeeat! He chirped - a single monotone song. What he lacked in musical ability, He made up for with enthusiasm -- his song a one-note solo. He didn’t know, or care, if he blended into the other bird’s halleluiah chorus. I found myself carried back some 40-plus years, and chuckled to myself as the slideshow of my mind played out a childhood scene.
     I attended a very small school. Auditions weren’t required for any the choral groups. Every grade had one and no talent or singing ability was necessary. My friends and I signed up the first day – mostly drawn to the idea of a field trip in the spring to compete with other schools in the county in the yearly choral contest. Mrs. A, our music teacher, took these competitions seriously, and puffed up like a proud mother goose when her goslings came home with the trophy.
     Because I have a fairly low voice, I could never reach the high notes. My friend, Patsy and I were designated as the alto section. Patsy easily harmonized with the melody singing sopranos, and she could belt it out like a musical foghorn. I, on the other hand, carried my tuneless pail as quietly as possible, but hid my lack of talent by standing hip to hip with Patsy, and softly following her lead. As long as Patsy stood by me, I was an alto.
     But, when Patsy missed the practice session, I shivered solo; knowing Mrs. A would call attention to my unblending little voice. This morning as I watched my treetop sparrow sing his one-note wonder to the sky, I recalled a reoccurring childhood embarrassment. It happened every time Patsy missed practice, and I was alone “in the alto section.”
     Mrs. A, a gray-haired matron, would pound out the tunes on her piano again and again, molding her songbirds into a flock that could bring home the gold. Wisps of hair disengaged from her topknot bun, as she feverishly strained to hear each of us sing while she played. Her rotund hips spread wide nearly filling the piano bench and she had a large flap of loose skin, where her chin should have been, that warbled when she talked like a big Tom turkey.
     She was stern, but also kind. I’m certain she didn’t intend to embarrass me but, never the less, every time she stopped playing, tapped her baton on the top of the piano and announced to the ceiling, “Girls, girls, there’s someone off in the alto section,” I wished for some magical invisible power that would let me slither between the cracks of the black floor tiles. All my friends would twitter. My cheeks would braise pink and I’d strain to keep the floodgates behind my eyes in closed position. I was the alto section. It was obvious that someone was me!
     It happened over and over again that year - every time Patsy couldn’t make practice. The next year I didn’t sign up for the choral group.
     I haven’t sung for years, although I do hum softly to myself much of the time. But, this morning, as I watched that little sparrow, quite literally out on a limb singing his one-note wonder, I was reminded that song is a celebration of love. Who cares if you sing off key?
     What I do know is that the sun rose this morning and warmed my face, a hush of a breeze kissed my cheeks. The trees were full with the melody, and the harmony, of heartland songbirds. A sparrow perched on an overhead branch and sang as though his tiny heart might burst. What he lacked in talent; he made up for with enthusiasm.

     Be the sparrow.

Prosperity

2010-11-25T09:05:00.003-06:00

Prosperity

A long-legged woman stands at the bow of her boat,

face warmed by rising sun. Silver streaks glint in her

light brown hair, sunbeams dance in the morning glow.

Nimble as a dancer she slips over the side,

rising and falling in undulating waves,

she sinks into her kayak.

With a mermaid’s grace she paddles toward the

white sand beach, frosted thick with pink and purple

seashells that stretches to the brink of the world.

She listens to the shells, so deep they tinkle like

a thousand wind chimes with each retreating wave.

She hunts.

She gathers.

She explores

the beach all day

filling a hand woven bag

with bountiful gifts from the sea,

until afternoon’s slanted light warns

soon the setting sun will stoke world’s

edge in a brilliant backdrop of fiery color.

The woman catches the first wave,

the smallest in a cycle of seven,

and smoothly paddles the kayak

toward her anchored sailboat home.

She spreads pink and purple shells

across the bow, admires each shape and hue,

then picks just one, that calls her name,

and slips the others gently over the side

returning them to the sea.

The woman has everything she needs;

and she knows what

she needs is

enough.

Written 2006 for my life-long mermaid friend, Janet who has taught so much about living. ~ N L Harless

2010-11-22T17:23:00.001-06:00

story catching

live wisely
for remnants
of your story woven today
will linger like a spider’s webbed
gye wires stretched between stanchions
holding the meat of a long dead fly
in slow decay - caught in her
sticky trap long after
you have gone

by nancy harless summer 2007

The River Rises

2010-11-21T10:32:00.001-06:00

The River Rises Up in the Night.

Wet beads cling to everything metal:
stanchions, guy wires, the bow hook
left leaning against the cockpit door
all glaze in tiny shimmering drops of light.

The river rises up in the night. Towels hung
to dry, now more sodden than the day before.
Her smoky wetness drifts into my bed; I awaken
damp and clammy, taste her earthy scent;slither
from my bunk, glide up the ladder into the shadows.

The river rises up in the night, licks my pajamas
with a cool wet tongue, brushes her fragile fog
through my tangled hair. Vapors permeate my flesh,
diffuse into my soul, swirl beyond the margins of myself.

The river rises up in the night, works her magic
with smoke and mirrors, burns scenes
of mystical madness onto her tree lined banks
until I, and the river, dissolve into one.

Sister Love

2010-09-03T00:42:00.007-05:00

If I could little sister I’d turn back time,
suck the sand up the hourglass to before
that tsunami cell phone call tumbled you
heels over head; sent you skidding across
a remote, rocky beach; then spit you out,
breathless and whimpering on a cold and distant shore.

If I could little sister I’d turn back time,
flip calendar pages backwards, make time stop
on the day before that all-changing day stole
every bit of breeze from your trembling sails,
left you struggling to inhale, and forever more
divided all your days into before … and after.

If I could little sister I’d take you away
to a faraway beach, where evening’s calm surrender
would melt the sky a thousand shades of splendor.
You’d search the horizon for a mythical green flash.
I’d pick shards of sea glass from your fragile heart,
gently daub your bleeding wounds,
and wrap big sister arms around you.

But know, little sister, if only I could,
I surely would,
turn back time.

The River Rises Up in the Night

2010-08-04T20:48:00.005-05:00

One of my old free-verse poems will be included in Lyrical Iowa 2010.

The River Rises Up in the Night.

Wet beads cling to everything metal:
stanchions, guy wires, the bow hook
left leaning against the cockpit door
all glaze in tiny shimmering drops of light.

The river rises up in the night. Towels hung
to dry, now more sodden than the day before.
Her smoky wetness drifts into my bed; I awaken
damp and clammy, taste her earthy scent;slither
from my bunk, glide up the ladder into the shadows.

The river rises up in the night, licks my pajamas
with a cool wet tongue, brushes her fragile fog
through my tangled hair. Vapors permeate my flesh,
diffuse into my soul, swirl beyond the margins of myself.

The river rises up in the night, works her magic
with smoke and mirrors, burns scenes
of mystical madness onto her tree lined banks
until I, and the river, dissolve into one.

Business Women of Pella, Iowa

2010-07-20T15:10:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful chat with the Business Women of Pella last night. We were small in number, but we had a wonderful dinner provided by by the Culinary Arts program of the local college and great conversation. Nancy read "Joy in the Morning," from her book, "Womankind," and all the women were charmed by little Cassandra and the saga of her stolen jump rope.

Good News from Imagine a Woman International: June 1, 2010

2010-06-01T08:41:00.005-05:00

This year the Imagine a Woman poem is celebrating its 15th year anniversary with a new website and new programs and opportunities for personal growth and professional enhancement. You're invited to the Launch of the IAW Coach Certification Program, today June 1. Make your professional dreams come true by joining the “Imagine a Woman” Team as a certified Facilitator-Coach. Circle the Globe with IAW and launch, grow, and enhance your woman-empowering coaching business, ministry, therapy practice, agency, or ministry. IAW provides a READY-MADE, READY-TO-GO “Imagine a Woman” NICHE for you at http://www.imagineawoman.com/.

Imagine a Woman

Imagine a woman who believes it is right and good she is a woman.
A woman who honors her experience and tells her stories.
Who refuses to carry the sins of others within her body and life.

Imagine a woman who trusts and respects herself.
A woman who listens to her needs and desires.
Who meets them with tenderness and grace.

Imagine a woman who acknowledges the past's influence on the present.
A woman who has walked through her past.
Who has healed into the present.

Imagine a woman who authors her own life.
A woman who exerts, initiates, and moves on her own behalf.
Who refuses to surrender except to her truest self and wisest voice.

Imagine a woman who names her own gods.
A woman who imagines the divine in her image and likeness.
Who designs a personal spirituality to inform her daily life.

Imagine a woman in love with her own body.
A woman who believes her body is enough, just as it is.
Who celebrates its rhythms and cycles as an exquisite resource.

Imagine a woman who honors the body of the Goddess in her changing body.
A woman who celebrates the accumulation of her years and her wisdom.
Who refuses to use her life-energy disguising the changes in her body and life.

Imagine a woman who values the women in her life.
A woman who sits in circles of women.
Who is reminded of the truth about herself when she forgets.

Imagine yourself as this woman.
~ Patricia Lynn Reilly

Book Club

2010-05-25T16:48:00.002-05:00

Top row left to right Ellen, Michele, Judy, Anne, Janet and Suzanne.

Bottom row left to right Cathy, Darlene, Rita, and Joanie

I "met" with the most lovely group of women this afternoon. The Book Club of Ormond Beach, Florida had read Womankind and one member, a nurse practitioner who coincidentally went to the same nursing school I did, invited me to join them for the discussion. Oh the wonders of the Internet! Thanks ladies! It was most enjoyable!

Make it a great evening!

~Nancy

Baby Monk

2010-05-24T20:59:00.008-05:00

Baby Monk
Baby monk with almond eyes,
Do you miss your mother?
Sent so young, so far away,
called to live with others.

Baby Monk with cherry cheeks
Worn rough by air-thin mountain
Family chosen at age three,
blessed yak butter flowing fountain.

Baby monk in crimson drape,
street begging is your earning.
Sandaled feet trudge ancient streets,
prayer wheel clockwise turning.

Baby monk your quiet smile
touches me like no other.
Baby boy with almond eyes,
do you miss your mother?

Nancy Leigh Harless

2007 Llasha, Tibet

Book Club From My Treehouse

2010-05-24T11:35:00.001-05:00

I'm looking forward to chatting with a group of women in Florida tomorrow.Isn't this an amazing world that we live in - one where you can sit in your tree house in SE Iowa and be part of a Book Club in Florida, or anywhere for that matter! I look forward to it.

I haven't been writing for a long time now, but am starting to think it's time to get back to it. I've been the ear for so many women, so many stories. It's time to stop being lazy. It's time to be their voice.

Make it great day!

~ Nancy

Friends of The Macomb Library

2010-04-08T14:44:00.001-05:00

I'll be speaking tonight at the annual dinner for The Friends of the Macomb Library and reading from Womankind.

I've also recently received a few invitations to attend Book Clubs. Some I'll be able to go in person.; Others, too far away to travel, I'll attend via Skype on the Internet, or on speaker phone.

I absolutely love joining the discussion about the stories of Womankind, so if your club would like to invite me just send an email - womankindconnection@gmail.com

I look forward to hearing from you!
~ Nancy

The Circle of Women

2010-04-03T10:46:00.002-05:00

In every corner of the globe I've sensed “the sisterhood” of women. I've seen women struggle, sometimes against daunting odds. I've seen them nearly break under the weight of their lives. And I've felt an abundance of spirit, of wisdom, and of connection with these very women. Ordinary women who live with extraordinary grace. We've laughed together. We've cried. Through the sharing of her everyday story, each woman’s life has been validated and my own profoundly enriched. For the honor of being an ear for so many women, so many stories, I am deeply grateful.

This year as we celebrate the 15th anniversary of the “Imagine a Woman’ poem. It too has circled the globe, since 1995, inspiring women wherever it goes. This year Imagine a Woman International is celebrating the poem's 15th year anniversary with a new website and new programs and opportunities. You're invited to the "Imagine a Woman" poem's 15th Birthday Party TODAY APRIL 2, and throughout the month of April, at http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=wjoygpdab.0.0.npzhx8bab.0&p=http://www.imagineAwoman.com&id=preview. I am a proud Launch Partner, and my book is featured at the Imagine a Woman website.
Imagine circles of women all over the world. Imagine Crouching over an open fire near the Guatemalan border while Cecelia teaches the significance of making the small tortilla. Sitting under a cashew tree in Belize on a quiet rainforest afternoon, answering the young Mayan mother's question: "How can we make no more babies come?" Holding Ermine in your arms in a courtyard amid the children and chickens, weeping with her as she shares her poignant story of war. These are a few of the women of my book……Womankind Connection & Wisdom around the World. The women of “Womankind” congratulate Imagine a Women International today. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Namiste,

~ Nancy

IMAGINE a WOMAN

2010-04-02T11:53:00.002-05:00

Since 1995, the "Imagine a Woman" poem has circled the globe, inspiring books, screenplays, videos, life transitions, professional portfolios, ministries, coaching practices, relationships, virtual communities, social networks, and organizational missions. This year Imagine a Woman International is celebrating the poem's 15th year anniversary with a new website and new programs and opportunities for personal growth and professional enhancement. You're invited to the "Imagine a Woman" poem's 15th Birthday Party TODAY APRIL 2 at http://www.imagineawoman.com/. We'll be partying all day so get your party clothes on, invite your friends, and come on over.

2010-04-02T11:35:00.001-05:00

ONE NURSE at a TIME

2010-01-05T20:51:00.009-06:00

Remember when I told you that while I was "story gathering" for Kaplan Publishing's upcoming anthology, Caring Beyond Borders I met a spunky nurse, Sue Averill, who works half the time internationally; the other half as an ER nurse in Seattle, Washington? Sue and her friend, Stacy Kelly formed the organization One Nurse at a Time. What a concept! It is a non profit created by these two nurses who are passionate about giving back to their local and global community through volunteer and humanitarian medical pursuits. They are dedicated to assisting other nurses enhance their profession as they too, look for opportunities to serve locally, nationally and internationally. And now I've been invited (well the truth is I sort of 'invited myself in' to be on the board of One Nurse at a Time! I look forward to helping raise awareness of what we nurses can do to change the world.

Last Book Event This Year

2009-11-11T13:09:00.000-06:00

In Des Moines This Week

2009-11-03T14:14:00.002-06:00

I'm in Des Moines this week to speak at the INPA Annual conference about "WOMANKIND." Nurses are a group that are particularly interested in the women's stories and I'm finding many who are interested in volunteering abroad.

"The Iowa Association of Nurse Practitioners (IANP) is a professional organization for advanced registered nurse practitioners who advocate for and deliver health care to children and families in a variety of settings. IANP promotes the role of the advanced practice nurse through leadership, legislative activities, and continuing education.
Established in 1975, the IANP is a professional organization to assist the Nurse Practitioner in improving the quality of health care delivered to clients. The organization believes professional growth is essential for maintaining competent practice. To achieve this goal, the IANP provides continuing education programs, works toward collaboration with other organizations and supports legislation as it relates to Nurse Practitioners. The IANP is a chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP). All Nurse Practitioners are welcome." (Taken from the website http://www.iowaanp.org/ )

2009-08-03T21:39:00.000-05:00

WOMANKIND is available all all your favorites bookstores and book sellers on-line. Email me at womankindconnection@gmail to arrange a book event or to invite me to visit your book club. My Fall schedule is filling up fast. Email today!

One Nurse at a Time

2009-07-08T14:56:00.004-05:00

While "story gathering" for Kaplan Publishing's upcoming, Caring Beyond Borders I met a spunky nurse, Sue Averill, who works half the time internationally; the other half as an ER nurse in Seattle, Washington. Sue and her friend, Stacy Kelly formed the organization One Nurse at a Time. What a concept! It is a non profit created by these two nurses who are passionate about giving back to their local and global community through volunteer and humanitarian medical pursuits. They are dedicated to assisting other nurses enhance their profession as they too, look for opportunities to serve locally, nationally and internationally.

You really must check out their website and email Sue and Stacy with your questions. The website is www.onenurseatatime.org Check it out! It's a very worthwhile place to put your donationsdollars to work to do something good.

Slideshow from San Miguel de Allende

2009-06-30T11:51:00.001-05:00

Press Release !

2009-06-30T11:32:00.003-05:00

Wever, Iowa nurse practitioner Nancy Leigh Harless’s story, “In God’s Palm,” has been included in the latest anthology, New Lives. published by Kaplan, a publisher of a broad range of educational and consumer books by and for healthcare providers. The book, New Lives is a compilation of stories from real nurses -- Stories about babies during their first year of life can be the most inspiring, touching, and heartbreaking tales. Nurses who care for these littlest of people collect multitudes of stories that touch the hearts of everyone, from those in nursing to anyone who simply enjoys stories of hope and inspiration. New Lives contains these stories in fascinating first-person narratives. All types of nurses, from hospitals, private practices, and in-home health care, tell their stories about the babies they’ve delivered and cared for. In turns joyous, humorous, and heartbreaking, these neonatal and prenatal nurses, midwives, labor and delivery nurses, pediatric nurses, and others share what it’s like to care for these small wonders at the very start of their lives. Edited and introduced by a registered nurse, this collection of stories will be treasured by those who love stories of survival.

How Sweet It Is by Alice J. Wisler

2009-04-13T17:10:00.001-05:00

Working Beyond Borders

2009-04-02T21:47:00.002-05:00

It's been almost nice years since I worked on a Maternal Child team in Kosovo, post the Balkan War. Memories of these proud young people working to rebuild their lives and their country are among my fondest memories.

Do you have a story about working abroad? I would love to read it. Send it to me at beyondborders@lives.com for consideration in the anthology, Beyond Borders: Nurses Stories About Working Abroad.

Beyond Borders - A Call Out for Stories

2009-03-22T11:19:00.002-05:00

This is the book I am presently working on with Kaplan Publishing. Kaplan wants nurses from all over the world to reveal what it’s like to practice nursing outside of your home countries. Whether confronted with unfamiliar cultural norms, new medical language, or greater or fewer resources than you would experience at home, your story will open a window into the commonalities and cultural differences in how the art and science of nursing is practiced around the globe.
Do you have a story to share? If so please email it to me at beyondborders@live.com. And if you don't have a story, but know a nurse who does - please share this information with her or him.
Thanks! I look forward to reading many tales from the art and science of nursing around the world. I look forward to reading YOURS!
~ Nancy

INTERNATIONAL WOMAN'S DAY

2009-03-08T09:23:00.003-05:00

I shortened it a bit, but the following is an article taken from www.internationalwomansday.com

International Women's Day has been observed since in the early 1900's, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies.
1908 -Great unrest and critical debate was occurring amongst women. Women's oppression and inequality was spurring women to become more vocal and active in campaigning for change. 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights.
1909 - In accordance with a declaration by the Socialist Party of America, the first National Woman's Day (NWD) was observed across the United States on 28 February.
1910 - A second International Conference of Working Women was held in Copenhagen. A woman named a Clara Zetkin tabled the idea of an International Women's Day. She proposed that every year in every country there should be a celebration on the same day - a Women's Day - to press for their demands with unanimous approval International Women's Day was the result.
1911 - International Women's Day was honoured the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.More than one million women and men attended rallies .However, less than a week later on 25 March, the tragic 'Triangle Fire' in New York City took the lives of more than 140 working women, most of them Italian and Jewish immigrants. This disastrous event drew significant attention to working conditions and labour legislation in the United States that became a focus of subsequent International Women's Day events.
1913-1914 On the eve of World War I campaigning for peace, Russian women observed their first International Women's Day on the last Sunday in February 1913
1917 - On the last Sunday of February, Russian women began a strike for "bread and peace" in response to the death over 2 million Russian soldiers in war. Opposed by political leaders the women continued to strike until four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote.
1918 – 1999 - Since its birth in the socialist movement, International Women's Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration across developed and developing countries alike . 1975 March 8th was designated as 'International Women's Year' by the United Nations. Women's organisations and governments around the world.
2000 and beyond - IWD is now an official holiday in China, Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. The tradition sees men honouring their mothers, wives, girlfriends, colleagues, etc with flowers and small gifts. In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of Mother's Day where children give small presents to their mothers and grandmothers.
The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation. Many from a younger generation feel that 'all the battles have been won for women' while many feminists from the 1970's know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy. But, the unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women's education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men. However, great improvements have been made.
Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world. So make a difference, think globally and act locally !! Make everyday International Women's Day. Do your bit to ensure that the future for girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding.
Make it a great day! ~ Nancy

Nursing in Australia

2009-02-26T07:57:00.003-06:00

While sending out 'Calls for Nurses Stories," via the Internet I 'met' the nicest woman - Charmaine Hernadez. Charmaine is originally from the Philippines, now an Australian citizen helping nurses from the Philippines, and other countries, to get their licenses to work in health care.

Charmaine shared with me that many nurses immigrate to the USA to find work, then find challenges obtaining a nursing license or a 'green card' to allow them to work. Not so in Australia. I would like to help Charmaine 'spread the word,' so I'm posting an excerpt from her note to me in hopes that YOU too will help 'spread the word."

From Charmaine - "We want to spread the word out there that you don't have to go to another country and work illegally. Unlike the US education system that governs Intl Students, Australia offers International Students not only their study rights, but LEGAL working rights for them and their dependents to enter the country.Applying for permanent residency and citizenship processing is quicker or less time compared to the US."
Go to www.aucec.com.au for the details.

Carpe diem! ~ Nancy

No Hesitation Here

2009-02-11T15:19:00.001-06:00

One huge difference I noted on my recent visit to India when compared to other countries that I've visited is how readily the mothers are to have their children photographed by this white-skinned-granny from across the ocean. I didn't get turned down a single time when I asked for 'one snap please ?' And, they certainly DO have beautiful children!

Home and Back At It !

2009-02-10T11:27:00.002-06:00

India was wonderful - a truly amazing, colorful country full of contradictions. Modern cities - frenetic with activity and then a camel prods down the middle of the highway; women dress to the nines in modern western wear, or gift wrapped in beautiful silk sari's - that amazing 9 yards body drape. My sister and I enjoyed all the sights, sounds and smells we could take in and found we feel especially in love with southern India where the pace is slower, the crowds smaller and smog non-existent. Photos to follow of the lovely Indian women and children. Soon!

On the Mend & the Move !

2008-12-29T21:22:00.009-06:00

My step-daughter, Mary, called this evening concerned because she had read on my blog that my shingles had really gotten me down. Sweet women - she was concerned because she's been through Trigeminal nerve pain and empathizes. Her call made me realize that I haven't updated here for a long time.

So, know that I'm on the mend! I still hurt, but not like I did and it gets better every week. And, in answer to the other question I've been getting asked often - YES, I'm still going to India - shingles be d--med, saber-rattling be da--med. I am going to India and will be there to celebrate my birthday!

For those who check this blog and would like to follow my India adventure with my sister , you can join us at wwwpostcardsfromindia.blogspot.com Don't put a period after the www, or you'll end up at some else's blog!

Womankind promotion remains on the back-burner. I am co-editing an anthology of stories gleaned from healthcare providers' experiences working in disaster areas. It fills every spare minute until I leave. My co-editor, Kerry Ann Morris of Kingston, Jamaica will take care of it all while I'm traveling.

So, I'm on the mend and on the move and looking forward to yet another grand adventure.

WOMANKIND for Christmas

2008-12-12T17:16:00.002-06:00

Don't forget if you'd like signed copies of Womankind mailed to you for Christmas gifts be sure to get your order to me by December 18th!

Chicken Soup Re-Heated

2008-12-06T16:07:00.001-06:00

I recently heard from the Chicken Soup folks that three of my stories have been chosen to be included in a new series they are putting out in large print, 'for the older folks.' I can't decide if this is a compliment....or if it's like being offered the 'Senior discount' at Hardy's for my coffee.

Teachers Book Club of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota

2008-12-02T10:17:00.005-06:00

Oh my Goodness! Today I received a photo and note from Jan Schultz of Brooklyn Park, Mn. I was there in October and visited with her Book Club. She has a great group, by the way - all teachers and they meet right after school. Now how practical is that? We had a wonderful discussion, not only of the women of Womankind, but of ALL women of the world. I am so pleased each time that happens as that was my intent of writing those strong, brave women's stories - to shed light on women's lives everywhere!

My facial pain from Shingles continues and, along with it, an increasing loss of zest for life. "Lady Depression has returned for a visit and I think she'll be staying a while. "She's brought a lot of baggage with her." * All prayers, positive thoughts, Reiku and other energy will be appreciated.

*Quoted from my dear friend and poet, Rich Hanson

Rain Song

2008-11-19T18:30:00.002-06:00

Four years ago I received the wonderful gift of spending time in northern Minnesota at a writing retreat called Norcroft. For three weeks while the leaves turned from green to gold, orange and blazing red I wrote like a wild women. That is where Womankind was born.

I recently connected with a fellow Norcroftie on-line and read her book Rain Song. See the review I wrote and consider Rain Song for your holiday gifts for friends, sisters, mothers and anyone who enjoys a good read! It's available at bookstores and the usual web stores too.

Rain Song by Alice J. Wisler makes a delightful weekend read. This appealing narrative takes place in Mount Olive, North Carolina and like so many stories set in the South, is chock full of quirky, charming, characters. You can’t help but like grandmother, Ducee, and her wise, yet eccentric, words of advice. Pretty cousin Grable struggles to cope with her fraying marriage and at the same time care for her daughter Monet, a special needs child with behaviors as unusual as her name. Their side story adds level of depth to the already interesting primary story about Nicole Michelin, a school teacher, who avoids airplanes, motorcycles, and all things Japanese. Nicole is given the chance to deal with her demons, and the gift of hope for a different future, when she forges an Internet friendship with Harrison, a man met through her website writings about tropical fish. Wisler’s book is a light read with a fresh narrative that will be appreciated most by those who enjoy a story with characters real enough to be a neighbor next door, or your own family members. Rain Song breathes hope into our troubled world.

Story in Collection

2008-11-18T18:37:00.006-06:00

The following is excerpted from the local newspaper, The Hawk Eye and was written by Bobby Riggs :

"Please Let My Son Not Die," a story by Nancy Leigh Harless of Wever, is included in "Reflections on Doctors: Nurses' Stories about Physicians and Surgeons."
In the collection of nearly two dozen provocative essays edited by Terry Ratner and published by Kaplan Publishing of Canada, readers are taken behind the closed doors of the operating room, the emergency room and other venues where medical situations are exceedingly intense.
The account by Harless is about the kindness, compassion and respect a "Doctor Drita" showed a frightened new mother, and how her behavior during a simple newborn baby exam gained all the medical staff's trust.
Harless is the author of "Womankind: Connection and Wisdom Around the World," based on her experience as a women's health care practitioner.

Achieving a Healthy Balance

2008-11-07T08:00:00.001-06:00

Achieving a Healthy Balance - that was the theme for the Women's Conference in Waconia, MN on Saturday. I am thinking that maybe I need to work on doing that in my own life.

I managed to get to the conference and speak - albeit a rather rambling, shuffling talk it was. I had been up most of the night before experiencing horrible pain in the left side of my face. Really weird pain - I had no idea if it was the sinus infection of the century, or a really bad abscess tooth that was sending shocks of electricity across my face and into my jaw bone. And, of course, I didn't connect the dots and realize that the 'cold sore' that had appeared on my lip had anything to do with the excruciating pain. Long story short - I have shingles involving my Trigeminal nerve! The good news is the truly disgusting pustules didn't pop out all over the left side of my face until after my presentation for Achieving a Healthy Balance. At least i didn't scare everyone in the room!

We left immediately following the conference and came straight home. Today is my first day out of bed. It has been a true learning experience (not to mention a good lesson in vanity) and I am truly beginning today to work on achieving a healthy balance in my own life. Sadly, one of my first steps was to cancel my book events for November.......well, maybe not all....maybe I'll be able to at least to the Anna Parker book clubs 100 birthday Celebration Party next week. Send me your positive thoughts, prayers, reiki and anything else you might call it. I'll take all the help I can get!

Reflections on Doctors

2008-11-05T11:08:00.004-06:00

One of Womankind's stories, Please Do Not Let My Son Die, has been included in anthology of nurse’s stories about Physicians and Surgeons. Here are some excerpts from the Press Release -
"Anyone who has been a patient or visitor to a hospital knows that the long-time image of nurses as helpful ladies in white who administer IV’s and wake patients every four hours to take their temperature, is not the role of modern-day nurses. Coming from varied educational paths and scopes of practice that place them side-by-side with doctors, nurses are no longer the “obedient handmaidens” to doctors that they once were perceived to be. If they disagree with doctors’ orders, nurses today can and do refuse them. The relationship and power dynamic between nurses and doctors has evolved with nurses now trained to ask questions and seek answers.

Through nearly two dozen provocative essays REFLECTIONS ON DOCTORS: Nurses’ Stories about Physicians and Surgeons (Kaplan Publishing; September 2008; $14.95 Paperback/$16.95 Canada), readers are taken behind the closed doors of the OR, the rapid pace of the ER and to many other venues where medical situations are exceedingly intense, and the integrity of the intertwined relationship between nurses and doctors is consistently challenged.

As REFLECTIONS ON DOCTORS’ editor Terry Ratner, RN, MFA says, “The nurses of this anthology represent a spectrum of voices and perspectives, reflecting upon their work alongside physicians. The majority of these nurses have witnessed revolutionary changes in the nurse-physician relationship over time. They are our messengers, our heroes and our scribes.”
....

Many of the essays in REFLECTIONS ON DOCTORS provide readers with clear-cut explanations of various medical terminologies, interesting history of the nursing profession and glimpses into its future. The diversity of all the essays is appealing to both new and seasoned nurses, as well as to someone simply interested in understanding the importance and ever-changing relationship between nurses and physicians. Further topping off this collection of engaging essays is a reader’s guide designed to, says Ratner, “stimulate meetings of the minds and begin crucial conversations in hopes of understanding the nurse-physician relationship.”

MEDIATIONS ON HOPE

2008-11-05T11:02:00.001-06:00

Nursing is a time honored profession with unique challenges and unique rewards as illustrated in MEDIATIONS ON HOPE: Nurses’ Stories about Motivation and Inspiration (Kaplan Publishers; On sale: October 7, 2008; Trade Paperback Original; Price: $14.95). Depending on the area of one’s practice “hope” can hide behind the harshest moment or appear in the most innocent of situations. In more than twenty personal stories, readers are treated to the richest range of emotions, events and experiences as nurses write about what has nurtured their own spirits and professional lives.

This collection of inspiring firsthand accounts from every area of the nursing profession including hospitals, private practices, and home health care, heralds special moments that have helped sustain and bolstered the faith of many committed men and women in the nursing profession. In The Peaches, Nancy Harless, tells a story of humor, hope and healing in the post-war Balkans. In My Life of Hope, Doris Urfer shares how the special relationship between her daughter and a pediatric practitioner not only brought a touch of humanity to a sterile medical wasteland but actually inspired her to become a nurse herself. Madeleine Mysko’s cantankerous patient in Mr. Bunyan makes a non-verbal peace offering by sharing a sun-warmed tomato from his balcony garden in a moment when the patient realizes he’s not the only one having a bad day. MEDITATIONS ON HOPE shares these and many more gripping and inspiring moments filled with the human drama that is an integral part of the nursing life, and moves these stories from the oral traditions of previous generations and showcases the diverse talents of the people who now populate the profession.

High Expectations

2008-10-26T09:42:00.009-05:00

It's going to be a busy week! On Wed I'll be the keynote speaker at the Women of Excellence Conference in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The keynote - YIKES! Here's what the brochure says -

"In her book, Harless retains an innocent writers voice. She reveals a facet of her own good will in the light of each story. Even in dire circumstances, Harless finds her own hope at the bottom of the proverbial box of chaos. She provides readers with an orderly, digestible view of the world differences through her lens of tolerance for now and hope for later."

Wow! Like I said....high expectations. I sure hope I don't let them down. Next we're off to Maple Grove, MN for a Book Club discussion on Thurs, and on Saturday I'll be one of the speakers at another women's conference - "Achieving a Healthy Balance" sponsored by the Ridgeview Hospital Foundation in Waconia, Mn. 250 attendees!

But, the best part of the week will be after all the book events are over, when we'll travel back up to Maple Grove, MN to celebrate 'Octoberfest North' with our kids and grandkids. Nov 1sdt
(Dia de Muertes) is also Becky's ( daughter # 3 as Norm numbers them) birthday so we've an extra reason to celebrate this trip! We'll visit and eat and , of course play lots of gmes. I've warned them all that I'm coming with my'game face' on. Like i said - it's going to be a busy week and we all got high expectations!

Women of Unity

2008-10-20T01:20:00.004-05:00

We took a road trip to Overland Park, Kansas this weekend to meet with the Women's Group of Unity Church of Overland Park. Turnout for the event was small - perhaps the beautiful sunny day called others outdoors. I know Norm and I were certainly tempted to skip church and go to the park! But, even though the crowd was small, interest in 'Womankidn" and in Casa de Los Angeles was great! I spoke about this wonderful project that provides daycare and so much more for the mothers and children of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Several women expressed interest interest in becoming involved through both volunteering and through financial support. Check this fantastic project out and consider joining us in our support of www.casadelosangeles.org. Note the adorable children of 'Casa' to the right.

ISPAN Conference in Dubuque

2008-10-14T08:42:00.001-05:00

I traveled to Dubuque, Iowa last Friday to be the keynote speaker at the ISPAN nursing conference. Fall colors are coming and it was a gorgeous ride along the Mississippi River. An amazing group of 45 bright, enthusiastic perianthesia nurses attended the conference. The theme was 'The World of Perianthesia Nursing. I really learned a lot by attending the all day conference myself, not to mention that I picked up 8 continueing education credits too!

I was the last speaker of the day - a position that I always dread because I know how everyone is anxious to leave for home by then. Sometimes at conferences I've even seen folks sneak out before the last speaker. but not this group! I don't know if they were simply being 'Midwest nice' , or truly interested in hearing the women of Womankind's stories. I'd like to believe the latter. Several spoke with me afterward about finding their own volunteer projects to do in the world. Many purchased their own copy of Womankind - some more than one!

All in all Dubuque was a very good weekend. Now I'm off to Sabula, Iowa this week to meet with a Book Club and to Overland Park, Kansas on Sunday to meet with the Women's Group of Unity Church. They both should be beautiful trips. I wish everyone could see the midwest in the Fall. It's my very favorite time of the year. Glorious!

Summer Vacation is Over !

2008-09-30T16:54:00.005-05:00

After spending almost 6 weeks in Mexico I have returned to the Midwest ready to start again with Womenkind's promotion. My Fall schedule kicked off last week with the Medical Partners of Iowa City Book Club. Next week, midweek I'll be speaking to Tri-State Delta Kappa Gamma, a teachers sorority at Jerry’s Restaurant in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, then on the weekend I'll be the keynote speaker at the Iowa Society of Peri-Anesthesia Nurses Fall Conference in Dubuque. Whew! It looks like it's going to be another busy year! Watch for the details and pictures of "Womankind" book events as well as of my Mexico adventure to follow.

Baby Monk

2008-06-27T16:13:00.003-05:00

Baby monk with almond eyes,
Do you miss your mother?
Sent so young, so far away,
called to live with others.

Baby Monk with cherry cheeks
Worn rough by air-thin mountain
Family chosen at age three,
blessed yak butter flowing fountain.

Baby monk in crimson drape,
street begging is your earning.
Sandaled feet trudge ancient streets,
pray wheel clockwise turning.

Baby monk your quiet smile
touches me like no other.
Baby boy with almond eyes,
do you miss your mother?

Off to Minnesota !

2008-06-21T07:14:00.004-05:00

We're off to Minnesota this morning....good Lord willing and the creek don't rise. These floods of the Midwest have reeked havoc in everyone's lives. I guess having to take a longer, alternate route to take the grandkids back to Minnesota is small potatoes in the big scheme of things.

We've enjoyed Bradly and Hannah for a week now - potato guns, motorcycle rides, golf and 'goofy golf'. They must have beaten me 100 times at Rummie-Cube. We've canoed and kayaked and they even worked the paddle boat around a friends pond. We've played with clay, painted and made creative things out of paper and wood. We've lazed in hammocks and spent a lot of time laughing at grandpa's silly sayings. There was very little television this week - only one movie and a couple episodes of 'Sponge Bob Square Pants." I am so happy that my grandkids would rather read or play than watch the 'tube!"

So, we're off for 'up North' this morning. I'll be meeting with a Book Club at the Barnes & Noble in Maple Grove on Monday and that is my last book event scheduled for the summer. Whew! Granny is tired and ready for a break. so, it's gardening and reading and writing through July, then off to San Miguel de Allende for the month of August. Ahh, life is good.....

At the Dichee Orphanage Just Outside of Llasa, Tibet

2008-05-25T17:46:00.002-05:00

Little Andu with smile so wide,
ruddy cheeks hint of a happy child,
but your dark almond eyes own a sorrow
no child should understand.

Count to ten on fingers
bitten to the quick;
recite your ABC’s;
lead me by a tiny hand
to the musky sweet kitchen
rice boiling on the black wood stove.

Take me to the room filled
with rows of metal beds;
your own shared with yet another
lice-infected, head-shorn little girl.

You stand tall against the yardstick, taped
to the rough wood door.
Your shaved scalp tickles my hand
as I measure, announce, "thirty-five inches,”
and silently add of pure humanity.

Your tiny hands pull on my arm
and at my heart
toward a rusty cage that holds
a mangy black dog big enough to ride.

Pulled by the fear of failure,
pushed by a need to please,
you whisper a single English word – “dog,”
peek up from the corner of your slant eyes,
hope for words of praise from this
pale skinned grandmother of another world.

Little Andu, your arms squeezed around
my neck when time to say good-bye.
Your rough head prickled my chest, burned
a little girl-sized hole that lingers today
as I remember…..

Little Andu with smile so wide,
ruddy cheeks hint of a happy child,
but your dark almond eyes hold a sorrow
no child should understand

Celebrate National Nurses Week with Nancy Harless, author of Womankind

2008-05-06T22:26:00.004-05:00

Nancy Harless a retired nurse practitioner from Wever, Iowa, has authored a collection of twenty-one short stories titled, Womankind: Connection and Wisdom around the World.Harless first began traveling around the world as a nurse, always on a shoestring, because she enjoys it. In her book Womankind, Harless retains an innocent writer’s voice. She reveals a facet of her own good will in the light of each story. Even in dire circumstances, Harless finds her own hope at the bottom of the proverbial box of chaos. She provides readers with an orderly, digestible view of the world’ differences through her lens of tolerance for now and hope for later.

********** Des Moines Public Library flyer **************

Nancy Leigh Harless coming to San Miguel de Allende in September

2008-05-02T19:53:00.002-05:00

Nancy Leigh Harless is an award winning poet and writer. Her works have been included in many antholgies including Cup of Comfort, The Healing Project, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Travelers Tales, as well as many professional and literary journals
A retired nurse practitioner, Nancy travels often -- usually off the well-paved road. Throughout her travels she has seen women struggle, sometimes against daunting odds. She has seen them nearly break under the weight of their own lives. She also has felt an abundance of spirit, of wisdom and of connection with these same women -- ordinary women who live with extraordinary grace.
What she has come to know for sure is the message of her first book, Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World, a collection of stories gleaned from her international nursing experiences and travels.
Join us at The author's Sala on September 12th in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico this a celebration of Womankind.

Midwest writer to talk about globetrotting, healing at Kennewick signing

2008-04-20T10:27:00.002-05:00

Dori O'Neal Mar 29, 2008 (Tri-City Herald )
Nancy Harless has spent the last 10 years trying to make the world a better place.
The nurse-practitioner, who grew up in Benton City but now lives in the Midwest, has taken her healing skills to different parts of the world where she helped the poor and learned how to laugh, love and live with women of many cultures.
She wrote a book about her experiences, Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World....Harless, 60, mostly takes the road less traveled when visiting countries around the globe. Those journeys haven't been to luxury resorts, either. She visits poverty-stricken areas where her medical skills can aid the sick and needy. But she also found a camaraderie among the women of the countries she went to.
In Belize, she sat under a cashew tree in the rainforest with young Mayan mothers trying to answer their questions about a world they knew nothing about. She hung out with cranky, coarse fishwives as they scaled the day's catch on the wharf.
In Kosovo, she navigated dangerously rutted mountain roads to get a poor pregnant woman to a hospital and comforted weeping women as they relived the horrors of war.
"What a ride it's been," Harless said of her adventures in a phone interview this week. "My life has been tremendously effected by the women I've met during this journey."
The stories Harless tells in her book will grip the heart as easily as it will make the reader laugh, said Susan Thiss of Richland.
After reading Womankind, Thiss said, "Wow! There's so much to take in when reading Nancy's book that I had to put it down after each chapter for awhile just so I could breathe normally again."
Though Thiss has never met Harless face-to-face, she grew to know her through her friend, Candy Harmon, who grew up with Harless in Benton City.
"Nancy would write these incredible letters to Candy and then she would forward them to me," Thiss said. "I grew to know her through those letters as I listened to the incredible adventures she had while helping those (less fortunate). Some of those places were just plain scary, but she told the stories in a way that helped me understand that there truly is a common thread among women all over the world."
Harless describes that common thread as a "sisterhood" connection that all women have no matter where they live -- the culture they practice, the heartache they feel and the joy they embrace......

Only the Harlesses

2008-03-17T19:01:00.003-05:00

Only the Harlesses would wait for a winter storm, then head out to drive across country just when gas prices approached $4 a gallon. We left Saturday morning and made it to Omaha where we enjoyed the company , or rather enjoyed BEING the company of an old friend, George, and a new friend, Michelle. Fantastic bacon wrapped scallops followed by steak grilled the old-fashioned way over live coals and, of course, lots and lots of good red wine. Wow! If this keeps up I'll be waddling into that last book event of the "Wild West Book Tour" at Aunties bookstore in Spokane on April 10th!

Last night we had hoped to go out to dinner with a friend, but instead we visited her in the hospital. Everyone please hold up 'Sally," so she gets through this rough patch. She's an amazing women - trekked Nepal after she turned 70, sea kayaks and bikes everywhere! She and I used to walk around Lake Geode near where I live in Iowa. It's about an 8-mile trek. I would be pooped by the end of once around, but not Sally - Sal wore a 20 pound pack, and went around the lake twice. She was training to climb a mountain. I just wanted to lose 10 pounds.

We're at Cedar City, Utah tonight after passing through some pretty spectacular country. The red rock around here is at least, if not even more, spectacular as that we saw in New Mexico a few years ago. Very interesting formations too - they look almost 'carved,' which, I guess, they are - carved by the wind! Amazing.

From Julien's Journal

2008-03-02T21:31:00.003-06:00

Julien's Journal - Dubuque Area Magazine - New Book Connects Women Around the World -
"......Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World .......From the Mayan mothers in the Belize rainforest to a race for the hospital with a laboring woman in the Kosovo countryside, the author tells the stories of the women she met, separated by land but united by the grace and strength of womankind."

Wever women to speak at civic center - MP NEWS.NET

2008-02-29T10:28:00.002-06:00

byMira Cash-Davis
02/28/2008
Nancy Harless, a retired nurse practitioner from Wever, has authored a collection of 21 short stories titled "Womankind: Connection and Wisdom around the World"....Harless began traveling as a nurse. She has traveled "always on a shoestring" even in retirement, because she enjoys it. In her book "Womankind," Harless retains an innocent writer's voice. She reveals a facet of her own good will in the light of each story..... In another story, Harless asks about an end to the shootings in Serbo-Croatia. A Serbian woman replies, "Oh, Nancy, you are so ... what is the word for like a little girl ... innocence?" before explaining to Harless the code of retribution among the Muslim Albanians. ....... Even in dire circumstances, Harless finds her own hope at the bottom of the proverbial box of chaos. She provides readers with an orderly, digestible view of the world's differences through her lens of not only tolerance for now, but hope for later......

Woman who writes about women visits Albert Lea

2008-02-24T22:24:00.003-06:00

Albert Lea Tribune - by Sarah Kirchner

Nancy Leigh Harless spent the last 10 years traveling the world and dedicating her time helping others in foreign countries. During her travels she met a lot of women, each with her own story to tell, which Harless captured in her journals. ....Harless was in Albert Lea Friday afternoon, outside of Book World in the Northbridge Mall, sharing her stories, signing books and reading some of her favorite passages. She brought many pictures of the women she met in her travels.
“Womankind” is a collection of short stories from Harless’ work across the world as a women’s health nurse practitioner.....Half the stories in the book are from Harless’ nursing experiences and half are taken from the women she met. ....Harless’ first trip, with her husband, was in 1997. A native of Iowa, she and four others went on a group study exchange to Guatemala and Belize. On that trip she saw both extremes of the countries, the poor and the very wealthy.
“That experience changed the way I want to travel,” she said, and exposed her to the need in the world.....Everywhere Harless went she said there were women with stories to tell and someone to tell it. “I have an ear for so many stories, so now it’s time for a voice,” she said....
The writing came after the travels. Harless and her husband didn’t know during their trips that a book would come out of it, even though she recorded all her experiences in her journals. However, those journals were kept for herself, with no intentions to publish a collection. Over the 10 years of travels, a few minor works had been published in nursing journals.....“Each of the women taught me something or retaught me,” Harless said....Harless toured Iowa and Nebraska with her book. Friday was her first time in Minnesota, and she chose to stop in Albert Lea.

WORDLY WOMAN

2008-02-17T16:34:00.002-06:00

Theses are excerpts from the article written by MAry Stegmeir in the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier on Saturday - 2-2-08.

In 1997, Nancy Harless and four other Iowa professionals spent a month living in Belize and Guatemala through a Rotary International exchange program. "I've seen poverty here in the United States, but even our poorest are rich by the standards in Guatemala and Belize," said Harless, who visited villages without running water and worked in hospitals where trash lined the hallways. "Nothing would ever be the same for me again."

The nurse immediately started planning a return trip to Belize with her husband, Norm. In 1999 the couple opened a women's clinic in Punta Gorda. And over the next nine years, she visited 15 countries, often using her trips to do service work and learn more about the world. .....

Her experiences off the beaten path are recorded in "Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World." ...."If there is an overall theme to the book, I would say it is one of hope," said the retired 60-year-old. "I think the world can be changed one person at a time. That's the only way it's going to happen." .....

"I think the book appeals to people's curiosity about other cultures," said Emily Longseth, merchandising manager at Waterloo's Barnes & Noble store. "We all have challenges, and we all deal with them in different ways." .....

"One of our editors described it as an 'I am woman, hear me roar,' book," said Kyle Kent, a managing representative with Tate. "Through her stories, (Harless) talks about the connections that all women share, no matter where they live." ....

"We might speak different languages, we dress differently, we eat different foods, but at our basic core we are all alike," Harless said. "All the women in the book care about making a better life for themselves and their families."

We can read the entire article on-line at www.wcfcourier.com and search the archieves 2-2-08.

THUNDER - LIGHTENING - FLURRIES

2008-02-04T09:50:00.000-06:00

Winter 2008 has been a long, cold hard one. I received an email from a friend last week. She said,"Isn't this this perfect weather for writing!" Somehow I just can't muster up her enthusisam, so I want to go on record right now as saying - THIS IS THE LAST WINTER I WILL STAY HOME IN THE MIDWEST! Next year I want to be doing something like in the picture to the right - swimming in the ocean with my sister!

Hope you are staying warm in your neck of the woods. We had a blizzard last night ocmplete with thunder and lightening. Something about that is just plain wrong.

From "The Daily Iowian" by Lauren Matovina

2008-01-30T07:44:00.000-06:00

Nursing the world to hope
By: Lauren Matovina - The Daily Iowan
Posted: 1/29/08
Many think today's world is still a man's world, but there is still hope, according to Nancy Leigh Harless' book, Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World. An Iowa City local, Harless fits in with the critically acclaimed authors who traipse through town. She will be at the UI Hospitals and Clinics Wild Rose Books today from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. reading from her début anthology.

Womankind is a collection of stories compiled by Harless while on international journeys as a nurse practitioner. She writes about the women she's met, often struggling for survival, and these narratives represent hope in the face of daunting odds.

The book began as a journal, which she kept daily when abroad. In 2003, Harless attended a three-week writing retreat in Norcroft, Minn., and the women's stories began to evolve from simple entries to full-fledged stories.

Womankind is truly a glimpse of women worldwide, linked by a certain sense of unity - sisterhood. Although not following in the witty tone of the Ya-Yas, the stories of these women, such as a Mayan woman who inquires how to stop the babies from coming or Agripina, an 8-year-old Peruvian who is called to be a midwife, are still compelling.

"I have been an ear for so many women, so many stories. It was time to be their voice. What I find most rewarding is sharing their stories and seeing how people respond to them," Harless said. "I hope that the message readers go away with from Womankind is a message of hope. Hope in a world where there almost is no hope. Hope with a capital 'H.' "

Her efforts in countries such as Belize and Guatemala originated as a professional study exchange through the Rotary of Iowa in 1997. The cultures that she and her retired husband, Norm, experienced moved them so greatly they decided to return to Belize in 1999 and build a women's clinic. After completion of the project, Harless retired from her job as nurse practitioner at the Planned Parenthood of Southeast Iowa to immerse herself in her newfound passion.

"At the Burlington Library, we had a book discussion about Womankind. One woman said it perfectly: 'We're really all alike, aren't we?' " Harless said. "There are a lot of underlying themes in Womankind, but the single truth is we are all the same, world round."

E-mail DI reporter Lauren Matovina at
lauren-matovina@uiowa.edu

Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World, with author Nancy Leigh Harless
When: Today, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: UIHC Wild Rose Books

© Copyright 2008 Daily Iowan

At New Copperfields Book Service

2008-01-30T07:16:00.000-06:00

A crowd gathered at New Copperfield's bookstore in Macomb on Saturday, January 26th to hear Cassandra's story and discuss women's lives around the world. It was an interesting group of women, and a few men too, enjoying Midwest's reprieve from the harsh cold we've been having. With the balmy 50 degrees weather outdoors, I was surprised so many came in for the Book Event!

IT MUST BE MADNESS

2008-01-18T21:03:00.000-06:00

It's only 4 degrees outside and predicted to plunge even further tonight. I'm heading out for a roadtrip to Des Moines & Omaha in the morning. I must be mad! Norm's been suggesting all day that I cancel the trip, but i've got three Book Events scheduled so I'm setting the old alarm for 5:00AM and heading out. Besides, I get to see jordan, my 5-year-old grandaughter who lives in Omaha. and, she making gramma a 'Butterfly cake.' And just how could I say "NO" to that?!? Think warm thoughts!

THE HAWK EYE - Author Discusses Travel Experiences

2008-01-13T21:57:00.000-06:00

Although I was misquoted a couple of times Willianm Smith did a nice job of covering the Discussion at the Burlington Library yesterday. Here's the article that appeared in today's Hawk Eye.

"When author and Wever resident Nancy Harless asked the packed reading room at the Burlington Public Library if they had read her book, every hand went up.

"Good. If you've all read it, I can tell some more behind-the-scenes stories," she said.

Harless was at the library Saturday morning to discuss her first published book, "Womankind: Connection and Wisdom Around the World," which is a compilation of her experiences as a nurse practitioner working around the world.

Specializing in women's health, Harless began traveling with her husband, Norm, in 1999 to Belize, Guatemala, Peru, southeast Asia, China and war-torn Yugoslavia.

"In 1997, I saw an ad in the Fort Madison paper by the Rotary International Club looking for professionals for a study exchange," she said. "It changed my life."

A couple of years later, she was in Guatemala City, just three months after the peace treaty was signed that ended the 30-year civil war. The peace accord called for the incorporation of the guerilla rebel forces into the mainstream, which caused a sharp increase in crime.

"Almost every family had someone who was kidnapped by the guerilla forces, and it was always women that were kidnapped," she said. "The family I stayed with had an aunt that was kidnapped, and they talked about it very casually. There were even negotiators in the yellow pages."

Harless became a nurse practitioner in her late 30s but never imagined the conditions she would be working in while in Belize.

"They call them the forgotten people. They are the poorest people in the world," Harless said.

She recalled visiting a hospital where trash lined the hallways, and the women were forced to sleep two to a bed after giving birth.

"There was a termite colony this big in the hospital," Harless said as she held her arms in a circle that reached her forehead.

But the book isn't about Harless. It's about the women she met, the struggles they endured and the hope they still held as Harless left for another country. The stories are told through her eyes, but she hardly considers herself the main character.

"I tried to write myself out of it as much as possible," Harless said.

Many of those in attendance were curious about how Harless was able to create such detailed stories.

"I keep a journal every day I'm in another country," Harless said. "I try to keep the stories as true as I can, but you never know how memory will work. Sometimes my husband will remember things a slightly different way than I do."

One of the most beloved stories in the book, titled "Joy in the Morning," is about a 7-year-old girl in Belize named Cassandra who loses her jump rope.

Or as Cassandra puts it so delicately in the book, "Me rope be t'eifed it. It da be gawn!" Translation -- "My rope has been stolen. It is gone."

"They speak English over there, but it is not the kind of English you're used to," Harless said. "It is more of a Pidgin version."

As Harless describes it in her book, Cassandra lived next door in a rumpled clapboard shack with three younger siblings, a teenage aunt and uncle and her grandmother. Jumping rope was the highlight of the girl's day, and she constantly challenged herself to make more jumps.

"She's a leader. That little girl will go far," Harless said.

The jump rope seemed to be the only toy Cassandra's family could afford, and it meant as much to her siblings as it did to her. Early in the story, Harless recounts how the little girl sobbed in her arms.

Despite Cassandra's heartbreak, she was up the next morning, singing into the sunshine as she bathed. Harless called the little girl "Sunshine," resilient to any tragedy, no matter how small, that befell her.

The one detail Harless didn't reveal in the story was whether Cassandra got her rope back. She was more than willing to tell her captive audience at the library, though.

"She did get a rope from me, and then her rope came back the next week. Some of the other kids were borrowing it," Harless said.

Published by Tate Publishing, an Oklahoma-based Christian Publishing House, "Womankind: Connection and Wisdom Around the World" is available at B Dalton bookstore in Westland Mall. Harless is at work on a second book featuring women from her Asian travels, and versions of some of her essays have appeared in the "Chicken Soup For the Soul" series of inspirational books."

WOMANKIND GOES INTERNATIONAL

2008-01-06T20:45:00.000-06:00

I recently returned from spending the holidays with my family in Washington state and while it's always wonderful to get together with family; it's equally as nice to come home again - especially since I came home to some exciting news!

I've been invited to give a presentation of WOMANKIND in Mexico! I have high hopes that Socorro, my Spanish teacher in San Miguel, will join us that evening and be recognized as the wonderful woman who "cured whatever ailed me with bouganvilla tea." If you don't know what I am talking about, read 'Socorro's Secret.'

So, I'm sending this invitation out into the universe, or at least out into cyberspace, for everyone to come on down to San Miguel de Allende mid September. You can read the details at www.sanmiguelauthers.com.

Meanwhile, on a less exciting, but very important note, I'll be leading a discussion at the Burlington Library on Saturday at 10:00AM. B.Dalton's will be there to sell books and a portion of the proceeds will go the the 'Friends of the Library.' Bring your own coffee. The muffins are on me. I hope to see you there!

WILD WASHINGTON WOMEN'S BOOK CLUB - The Sisterhood of Skagit County

2007-12-20T23:53:00.000-06:00

Last Thursday I was at my sister's home in Mount Vernon, Washington to discuss WOMANKIND with her book club. What an AWESOME group of women! And, if they don't know how to do a book club up right...well, then no one does.

The perfect hostess, Pam greeted us with fresh-frozen margaritas to get everyone into the mood of "world-travel" and set the stage for the amazing plablano chili dinner she had prepared. In honor of Cecelia's story we had a tortilla making contest with Lara taking the prize for the smallest, and the most perfect. If you don't understand, then you haven't read the book yet, in which case you won't understand why the candied 'peaches' for desert either.

As the evening progressed I listened to the women discuss the women of WOMANKIND and even more important - their own lives. I felt a familiar "hug around my shoulders like a warm huipile" - that sense of commradie only women, and goddess, can understand.It was obvious to me that my sister's book club is far more than just of group of readers who gather every other month to talk about a book. They are members of a Sisterhood who respect,love, and support each other through all their good times and the gawd-awful ones too.

"Life can stretch your spirit, they read in WOMANKIND'S last story,"Choices," or tear your soul. You choose."

It was apparent to me these strong, beautiful women already had - long before they read my book.

A BIG THANKS to the Wild Washington Women's Book Club for choosing WOMANKIND for their December read. I look forward to returning in April. Hmmmm....I wonder what we will eat...er, I mean, read?

MIDWEST WRITERS CENTER HOLIDAY BAZAAR

2007-12-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

I'm off to Davenport, Iowa this afternoon to take part in the Midwest Writing Center's Holiday Bazaar. There will be writers and artists from all over the Midwest there. Please join us if you're in the area and are interested in promoting 'local talent.' It should be a grand event! The Center is located at 225 Second Street in Davenport. Hope to see you there!

DES MOINES REGISTER - Wever Nurse's Journeys to Other Nations Build Respectful Connections -

2007-12-03T10:44:00.000-06:00

Here's exerpts from the Des Moines Register Staff Writer, Mike Kilen's article in the Thanksgiving Day issue of The Des Moines Register -

Nancy Leigh Harless wears a necklace with a turtle medallion."It reminds me that only when you stick your neck out do you move forward. That's my motto," Harless said.She stuck her neck out in 1997. Living in a tiny southeast Iowa town of Wever, the nurse joined a group sponsored by the Rotary International that performed service work in Belize.

"That month in Belize changed my life," she said.It sparked several years of international travel to Mexico, the Kingdom of Tonga and the Balkans. Her experiences became her debut book, "Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World" Courageous women are the focus.

."Women are pretty amazing creatures. They have the ability to stay positive, even when there is nothing to be positive about," she said. Harless saw it often in women from every country she visited while volunteering to help with women's health issues in poor countries. The pride and nurturing of a Mayan woman who could make the perfect corn tortilla for her family. The determination of a nurse in Mexico facing long odds trying to help poverty-stricken women and their children. The mental toughness and grace of a Guatemalan woman with a philandering husband.

"If it sounds a little like the popular "Chicken Soup" series of inspirational books, it is. Harless has stories published in those collections, although not focused exclusively on women."Women are considered the weaker sex, but I continually saw strong women who did what needed to be done," she said. "That is worldwide. We are going to do what is necessary to take care of our children, like a mama bear."

The trips awakened her to the world beyond rural southeast Iowa, which she hopes to continue someday in Africa.The book was formed from journals.."It helps clarify. When I'm traveling the world and seeing so many things that are shocking and appalling, it's a way of processing it," she said. "Without the journal in Kosovo I might have had a breakdown." It also helped her clarify the bond of women everywhere."There is this connection that women have," Harless said. "We 'get' each other."

SIGNING at the BURLINGTON MALL

2007-11-21T22:13:00.000-06:00

Nancy will be at B. Dalton's bookstore in the Mall in Burlington, Iowa on Friday, November 23 to sign your books and discuss WOMANKIND.

Martha Wolf of The Ivy Bake Shoppe will also be there to sign her cookbook. Martha will bring a tray of yummy 'goodies' from The Ivy.

Both books will make wonderful Christmas gifts for all the women on your lists. Stop by on Friday and visit with Martha and Nancy. Bring coffee. :-)

Revelation at REVELATIONS !

2007-11-17T18:52:00.000-06:00

A small crowd gathered upstairs in a cozy corner of Revelations Bookstore & Cafe, in Fairfield, Iowa this afternoon to hear Cassandra's story - "Joy in the Morning," from Nancy's book, WOMANKIND: Connection & WIsdom Around the World. They loved little Cassrandra's grit, and asked many questions following the reading about life in southern Belize. They also loved "Norms Masterpiece" - the beautiful 5-panal frame made to hold pictures of the women of Womankind.

Laughing Together at the North Liberty Library

2007-11-16T09:39:00.000-06:00

Last night a dozen strong, beautiful women and, two very brave men, gathered at the North Liberty to hear Nancy read from her book, WOMANKIND: Connection & Wisdom Around the World. Many of the group were from the University Women's Writers group which Nancy joined about one year go and lauds as 'the most positive, encouraging, talented group of writers I've ever had the privilege to work with."

There were plenty of laughs as some of the funnier excerpts were read. More importantly (is that a word?) there was thoughtful discussion regarding some of the challenges women face worldwide, as well as the perception of "our America" around the world.

Nancy's book event schedule is posted on her website www.womankindconnection.com. She'll be getting it up here on her blog soon. We hope you will join us for one, or for many of these celebrations of women and Womankind.

Local author Lauded at Arts for Living Center Book Launch

2007-11-13T07:52:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, November 11th, The Society of Great River Poets lauded local author, Nancy Leigh Harless as they celebrated the launch of her first book, Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World" at the Art for Living center in Burlington Iowa. In his introduction, Ron Kahl, president of the Iowa Poetry Association, remarked, "Nancy told me several years ago that she couldn't write poetry, but there is poetry throughout her allwriting."

A group of about 40 people gathered to listen to Harless read 'Over Coffee with Sister Filje," the story of two nurses from oppisite sides of the world sharing sharing nursing stories over coffee. In describing the Sister filje's work in post -war Kosovo, Harless writes "Her work is more than a job. Her work is her mission."

And that might now be said of Harless too with regard to promoting her book - WOMANKIND: Connection & Wisdom Around the World.

The Hawk Eye Canonizes Iowa Author

2007-11-04T06:02:00.000-06:00

Oh course the headline is tongue-in-cheek, but truly this past week the Burlington, Iowa newspaper - The Hawk Eye - featured an article written by reporter Criss Roberts that made me sound like I can walk on water. More important though is that she loved the book - WOMANKIND! Here's a little of what she had to say -

"...In her travels Harless has seen shredded spirits. She's seem souls souring so high she was graced to have caught sight of them. As a nurse practitioner specializing in women's health, the Wever woman hadn't gone looking life lessons or inspiration. She began traveling....In each stop, in locations usually rural and poor, Harless found women and young girls thriving despite heartcrushing adversity. Burdened with an unending cycle of pregnancy, birth and nursing, these women created small pockets of humanity, tapping into a joy Harless found crossed languages and borders, living in the universal feminine heart.

Harless brought these stories home like souvenirs, polishing them into a series of written gems in "WOMANKIND: Connection & Wisdom Around the World.....She's hoping to weave the threads of wisdom she's brought back from her travels through the lives she touches.

Life can stretch the soul, Harless learned from a woman in Belize street market. Or it can tear the spirit. "You choose," the woman told Harless.

And she has."

Nurse Practitioner Authors Book on Women around the World

2007-10-31T12:27:00.000-05:00

Here's the Press Release that went out to the newspapers this week. Look Mom - I'm 'almost famous!"

Women’s healthcare nurse practitioner Nancy Leigh Harless, of Wever, Iowa, has released her first book, a collection of stories entitled “WOMANKIND: Connection & Wisdom Around the World.”
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, “Womankind” is a compilation of stories from real women across the world that Harless has encountered in her travels and experience as a women’s health nurse practitioner. From the Mayan mothers in the Belize rainforest to a race for the hospital with a laboring woman in the Kosovo countryside, the author tells the stories of the women she met, separated by land but united by the grace and strength of womankind.
The book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or walmart.com. Audio versions of the book are also available.
Originally from Washington state, Harless is a graduate of the Intercollegiate Center for Nursing Education through Eastern Washington University. After working several years as a nurse, she returned to school at the University of Texas Southwest Medical Center to become a women’s healthcare nurse practitioner. Now retired, she divides her time between her home in Wever, Iowa, and traveling the world with her husband, Norm. A second volume of “Womankind” is currently in production.

A Hit at Zanzibar's !

2007-10-29T13:59:00.000-05:00

Nancy's first WOMANKIND reading was at Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure on Friday. A small, friendly crowd of about 25 people gathered together to drink coffee and hear stories of "wisdom and connection from around the world." Both Cassandra and Sister Filje were a hit with the crowd, who asked many thought-provoking questions following the reading. We closed up Zanzibar's at 10PM after selling every book we had taken. We'll take more the next time. It was a wonderful first experience and now Nancy is less nervous about holding more Readings.As for 'Signings' where the author sits at a table like a hungry puppy and hopes someone will stop by and ask for her signature,...well that might be another story.

DES MOINES

2007-10-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

Norm and I are in the Des Moines for the weekend and having a blast. Yesterday we visited eight bookstores and everyone was so friendly that it made marketing WOMANKIND a breeze. So far we've got 14 Reading/Signing events lined up between the first one tonight(Zanzibar's Coffee Adventure) and Christmas. Whew! This ole gray mare better pick up some speed.

I hope you've already gotten your copy and are at least half-way through WOMANKIND. Please respond on my blog and tell us your reactions to the stories. Do you have a favorite? A question? For example....DID Cassandra get a new rope? DID landmine explode? :-) Happy reading!

Nancy

READING AT ZANZIBAR'S COFFEE ADVENTURE

2007-10-11T23:47:00.000-05:00

Nancy will do her first reading of WOMANKIND at Zanibar's Coffee Adventure in Des Moines, Iowa on October 26 at 8:00PM. Her husband,Norm,finished the photo display just in time. At Zanzibar's, Nancy will be reading, "Joy in the Morning" - Cassandra's story, the little girl pictured in the top center of the photo display; and "I Am a Curandera," - Agripina's story - the Peruvian midwife in the top row to Cassandra's left. We hope tht you will join us for this first celebration of WOMANKIND.

Womankind Acolades From Chicken Soup

2007-10-07T20:29:00.000-05:00

Nancy Leigh Harless is fresh new writer who braids narrative threads of true stories about ordinary women from all over the world, living in extra-ordinary circumstances. These stories show us not only who these women are, but who we are and the universality of our lives and lessons. This remarkable collection of legacies will make readers cry, and laugh, and celebrate the community of women worldwide.” -- LeAnn Thieman, Co-author of Chicken Soup for the Nurse’s Soul

Colleen Sell, Editor of the Best Selling Cup of Comfort Anthologies Says....

2007-10-03T13:31:00.000-05:00

If you've ever wondered what the expression "heart of a woman" means, read this book and you will understand exactly what makes a woman's heart tick. Through these powerful stories of fascinating women and girls from around the globe, Nancy Harless reveals and celebrates the integrity, ingenuity, strength, and sheer beauty of the feminine spirit.

Opps! I Made a Mistake!

2007-10-03T13:16:00.000-05:00

Well, it seems that I was wrong when I said that WOMANKIND wouldn't be available until October 22. Several friends have called or written to say that they've already gotten their copies right from the publisher. So, if you want check it out! www.tatepublishing.com/book After the 22nd you can order on-line through www.amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com like I've previsouly mentioned, or , better yet, ask your local bookstore to order it!

How Can I Get a Copy?

2007-10-01T22:29:00.000-05:00

Many have asked 'How can I get a copy?" So, here's the scoop -- WOMANKIND's release date is October 22. It's my understanding that it won't be in bookstores before then. After October 22 it will be available on-line through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or directly through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/book/ or through your local book store. This that doesn't mean that all stores will stock it. They will, however,be able to order it for customers. The more times a store is asked to order it, the more likely they will stock it. I hope this is helpful.

IOWA WRITER LAUDES WOMANKIND

2007-10-01T11:50:00.000-05:00

"...Nancy is that rare person who, through sheer persistence and a blend of practical and visionary ideas, continues to see the good that can be done in this world. Through her travels, she’s discovered that much of that good comes from telling stories. In fact, for women who have experienced the horrors of war, the oppression of religious intolerance, and a poverty of choices in everything from the clothes they’re allowed to wear to the children they’re expected to bear, sharing personal stories is one of the best ways to heal.

That’s what Womankind represents: a collective healing, not just for the women Nancy writes about, but for everyone who reads these insightful glimpses into the universal concerns women face. This is a book that incites thought, examination, and change. It is a celebration of women, and a measure of how far we need to go to achieve a greater sense of our selves." - Debra Landwehr Engle, author of Grace From the Garden: Saving the World One Garden at a Time.

Kind Words on WOMANKIND From a Poetress

2007-09-27T16:28:00.000-05:00

“Nurse practitioner Nancy Harless has written a moving collection of short stories, based on her intimate encounters with strong, courageous women around the globe. A skilled, sensitive storyteller, her tales in WOMANKIND transcend cultural, racial and gender boundaries to touch the human heart.” - Marie Delgado Travis, award winning Latino writer and author La Ventana/The Window

Read what Susan Sanchez-Causal, co-author Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul says about WOMANKIND !

2007-09-26T17:42:00.000-05:00

A sparkling debut, Womankind proves to me that sisterhood is possible among women who have little more in common than being women. With the compassionate and lyrical voice of a nurse who has spent years volunteering for medical projects from Belize to Kosovo, Nancy Harless surprises and rewards us with her lively accounts of girls and women who manage to flourish in the midst of poverty, war, and the challenges of living in a man’s world. If you’ve ever wondered if there really is a unique spiritual connection among women, Womankind offers poetic proof in story after story about women who help each other to live rich and abundant lives, who honour nature and spirit, and who move through the rigors of their daily lives with courage, resilience and hope. Equally enlightening is Harless’s insightful introspection about her complicated role as a First World volunteer in countries whose futures are risky at best, and her continuous struggle to reach across the boundaries of nationality and language in the loving gestures of sisterhood. As an orange seller in Belize says to Harless one day: “Life can stretch your soul or tear your spirit.” Thanks to Harless’s inspiring pen, the women of Womankind will make your soul and spirit soar. An eye-opening and inspiring read.

The BZZZzzz over Womankind

2007-09-21T10:30:00.000-05:00

Read what Susan Brady, editor of The World Is a Kitchen (Travelers Tales) says -

“Womankind by Nancy Leigh Harless is a deftly woven glimpse into the women of other cultures—how they live, work, and cope, in very difficult situations such as poverty and war. This sensitive, insightful collection showcases the author’s ability to connect to others and her surroundings through understanding and compassion, as well as food and humor, and does so without being judgmental.”

I'm officially 'embedded'

2007-09-16T16:40:00.000-05:00

Thanks to a wonderful poet and talented computor guru, Marilu Delgado Travis, my photo no longer looks like it's being viewed through a circus mirror. She emailed me an 'embedded' copy of my photo and - VOILA - it worked like magic!

I met Marilu as a co-contributor to "Chicken Soul for the Latino Soul" when we shared a reading in Chicago last year at a Latino Literacy event. Marilu's poetry books are amazing (in both English and Spanish) and available through her on storefront www.lulu.com/marilu. Check it out!

WOMANKIND's Coming October 22 !

2007-09-14T10:05:00.000-05:00

I just received word from my publisher, Tate enterprizes, that my book Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World will be released October 22, 2007. It's taken nine months from contract signing to completion- just like a pregnancy. I truly do feel as if I've just given birth. Watch for updates as our plans unfold for the "wild and crazy" tour around the country for WOMANKIND!