My Turn - A privilege to know prominent women

The beauty of the high plains is rugged. Barren landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The rising of the sun, and its majestic setting … we do have incredible sunsets. Wild plums that put on a wonderful show in the springtime.

The plants here are tough, just like the people who came to this area and called it home over a century ago.

Beautiful and lovely. Two different things. Lovely things are more genteel, carefully cared for, sweet little things.

To be sure, I can look around and find plenty of natural breath-taking beauty in my surroundings. But if there is anything lovely about this place, it is because of women like Jane Hilliard.

Women who chose a sunshiny yellow for their houses. Women who planted rose bushes. Women who organized special clubs and events to make the windswept landscape a pleasant place to live. Women who always had on a bit of pink lipstick, never looked rushed, perfectly coiffed hair, wearing a strand of beads. Women who called us "dear," sharing with us the fine art of writing notes, hosting delightful parties and receptions.

It has been my privilege to know such women. I treasure their example.

Sandy keeps an online journal at her website http://www.field-days.com. E-mail her at [email protected]