By Anna Erickson Miniature horses are somewhat of a rarity in southern Minnesota, but their delicate appearance and charm is sure to win over any heart, which is how I ended up with seven of them. The morning of September 7 started the same as any other day. I was up by sunrise carrying out my daily chores of tending to my horses, when I noticed that one mare was absent. I … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project – Asexuality Awareness
By Leah Himlie It is estimated that 1-2% of the human population has red hair. The same percentage is estimated for the number of people who have green eyes, and lastly, the same percentage is estimated for the number of people who identify as asexual. Despite the first two statistics being perceived as valid, true statements, many people invalidate or are ignorant of … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project — The silent pandemic
By Pailey Gordon All over the news, we hear about politics, war, celebrity drama, natural disasters, and sometimes we even receive a happy story about how a child overcame some sort of challenge he was facing. Rarely do we see news on a concerning pandemic that is developing more and more every day: human trafficking. Human trafficking is the action or practice of illegally … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project Embrace yourself
By Laura Vettleson-Trutza As quoted in one of my favorite songs, “ I am not a Robot” by Marina and the Diamonds, “It’s better to be hated than loved for what you’re not.” When I was young, I was very shy around others. I wouldn’t talk or interact with anyone. I was known by others as the really quiet, yet nice one. At home, however, I was definitely not quiet. I seemed to … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project Living in the moment
By Annalise Shupe We’ve all heard different varieties of the same phrase before. I’ve heard the phrase throughout the entirety of my childhood; “Enjoy this time in your life because it’s going to be over before you know it, you’re going to miss it, so live in the moment.” Now a major stage of my life is over, I have graduated high school. With that, all of my “lasts of high … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project A message to those still in school
By Travis Vatland Finally, the school year seems to be coming to a close. As my classmates and I set off on our new adventures, I have taken some time to reflect on what my journey this far has been. Seems like every year I remember has distinct highs and lows. I have learned quite a bit from this 12-year journey. This essay is for everyone still in high school, and it is … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project All we need is (to stop romanticizing) love
The rampant flitting of butterflies in one’s stomach upon a mere thought or glimpse. The electrifying spark capable of commencing a wildfire extending from a graze or touch. The slight coloring of cheeks and avoidance of eye contact upon noticing the directed affectionate gaze of another. The continual craving for the missing piece to the puzzle and overall commitment for … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project Thunder Rode
By Deanna Kay Phillips For my last article I decided to to interview Michelle McClain-Kruse on April 23, 2018, who has had success with her own business. She has been a major influence in my life. Whether it was teaching me more about horses or declaring herself my college mom, she has been there for it all. Her business is Thunder Rode, Inc. It provides a place of safety … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project Where do I see myself in 10 years…
By Ashley Haugerud The future is unfortunately quite unpredictable. There is no “right time” in life, you never know what is going to happen next, but ultimately, everything will work out how it should. In 10 years, I see myself wherever life takes me. Many people wonder when they should start thinking about their future plans, but the truth is; there is no right time. … [Read more...]
Journal Writing Project Superstitions
By Laura Vettleson-Trutza Have you ever been afraid of something just because you thought it was “bad luck”? Maybe seeing number 13, or seeing a black cat cross the road ahead of you. As you probably already know, these are examples of superstitions. Almost everyone has some kind of superstition whether it’s good or bad. However, where exactly did these ideas and beliefs come … [Read more...]



