Magazine Articles

One semester down, seven to go. Wow, that was intense. Definitely not what I expected. Many people have been asking, “How did your first semester go?” They usually have enthusiasm in their voices, almost as if they want to relive a part of their college experience through me for a few seconds. I usually reply with a huge smile, “It went well, I love college!!” But honestly, that is just my “easy” answer. My first semester of college was most definitely one of the hardest times of my life…but also the best learning experience I’ve ever experienced….. Click the magazine …

Sitting down to write this month’s letter from the editor, fresh cup of coffee in hand, just as the writing juices began to flow I got a much-welcomed interruption. My beautiful daughter Grace phoned, talking a mile a minute, sharing every detail of her day. This issue is devoted to love, luck, and the pursuit of well-being. Please take some time to soak up the beautiful articles we have put together for you. I am so excited to share this edition with our readers.  Perhaps, you too, will see the love, luck, and well-being life has in store for you. …

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” ~Martin Luther King Ladies, once again we close in on another year’s end. I ask myself once more, where did the year go? The quote, “The days are long, but the years are short” is beyond fitting. This issue is dedicated to forgiveness and fulfillment. In a year in which our country has faced such challenging times, I know you will find reprieve in the beautiful articles in this issue. The other day, I stopped at a local gas station. …

Before I left for college, all the world’s well wishers bombarded me with advice. Everyone it seemed, needed to tell me how to succeed in college: “Get lots of sleep.” “Go to church daily.” “Keep your books with you at all times.” All this advice was great and I am thankful for all the love and support I have been given, but nothing really prepared me for the change that occurred. I watched my family walk away, knowing it was going to be awhile before I saw them again. After the first few weeks it all began to sink in: …

Ladies, once again we close in on another year’s end. I ask myself once more, where did the year go? The quote, “The days are long, but the years are short” is beyond fitting. This issue is dedicated to forgiveness and fulfillment. In a year in which our country has faced such challenging times, I know you will find reprieve in the beautiful articles in this issue. DOWNLOAD THIS ISSUE BELOW TO READ MORE! [in this issue] (16) Forgiving (18) I am Looking for Someone to Share in an Adventure (20) Casting Light (24) Letting Go (27) Forgiving Yourself (28) …

My dear readers, it has happened. I had my first vintage moment. Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not oblivious to my forty-something status. At this age. I know my tribe and that just feels good. When that vintage moment comes, we can also embrace the wisdom and the very exciting fact that we can re-purpose our lives. Young or vintage, we hope you’ll enjoy this special issue. DOWNLOAD THIS ISSUE BELOW TO READ MORE! [in this issue] (16) Faith As Stress Relief (18) Back To School Blues (20) The Virtues Of Buying Vintage (24) Sparerib And Strawberry (26) …

Well ladies, it’s time to take a break! Summer is finally here. Every summer, we’ve always had so much fun with the adventure bucket list. Get ready to enjoy all Wisconsin has to offer this summer and allow yourselves to take a break. DOWNLOAD THIS ISSUE BELOW TO READ MORE! [in this issue] (16) A Genuine Hero (18) Summer Vacation Challenges for Mom (20) 7 Benefits from Taking a Break from Sugar (24) Take a Break (from the Daily Routines) (26) Tough Talk (28) How to Stay Fit-Inspired this Summer (30) Re-Entering the Job Market [ in every issue ] …

Ladies, spring is in the air! As I prepare for the spring edition of 5ive for Women, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge our own “Rays of Grace” upcoming graduation. Will you please indulge me as I use this forum as an open letter to my very own amazing Grace? Dear Grace, I am on two committees helping to get ready for your all-night graduation party. With every meeting  and every discussion, your fast-approaching graduation becomes more of a reality. Your official status as a young adult has me simply blown away. I thought I was going …

As 2016 draws to a close, I have so much to be grateful for. As the New Year approaches, many of us will plot goals and make plans for the year. Ladies, I’m just trying to get through the week here. Plans for 2017 have not yet begun. Even still, amidst the hurry and the haste, I have experienced grace and focused on gratitude. Sadly, we received some horrific news this fall. My dear cousin and her husband were killed after being struck by a driver in a head-on collision. I am filled with overwhelming grief, but so grateful for …

Christy Brickner has a full plate, with several roles: wife, mother of four, student, activity leader, volunteer, to name a few. Like countless Chippewa Valley women, Christy strives to cultivate equilibrium among her obligations and passions. No matter what, she knows that a balanced diet of the five Fs—faith, family, friends, fitness, and finance—leads to a more enriched life. Click the magazine below to read what Christy has to say about faith, family, friends, fitness, and finance on PAGE 10: