My Woman of Achievement

Very often awards are given out to those who support organizations through their time, talent and treasure. There is nothing wrong with this practice. I have been the recipient of a couple of these. It certainly energized me and hopefully provided an example to others.

Last week, my wife Joan broke the mold as did the other recipients of the Chester County (PA) March of Dimes Women of Achievement. She won the Ellen Ann Roberts Award for Business. She has done some fundraising for the March of Dimes, but this was an award based on her contributions to the business world-which there are many.

I have a different perspective however. I have known Joan for over 25 years, nearly 23 as my wife. It's no surprise that she was honored for her business efforts. The secret that a few of us know is that she puts the same focus and energy in everything she does. When she stayed at home, she was completely focused on motherhood and taking the burden off me. She felt that was her role. It also allowed her to comfort her father when her mother died way too early at 57. She and her siblings managed a foundation her father set up after she died. When he died a few years later (again way too early at 66) she succeeded him as President and helped make it a world class foundation. When she got back into the business world in earnest, she did so with gusto, determination and grit. It's not always easy working with your spouse-but she lead by example with her focus and drive. There is no better networker, salesperson or consultant than Joan. She has the rare gift of being able to sell and deliver the results.

I have been blessed to be at her side for all these years. She is a remarkable woman with incredible strength. She raises every one's performance by being around her. A friend of ours gave her a notepad with the title "Perennial Optimist" on each page. No truer words have been spoken.

I know marriages are a partnership and ours certainly has been. But to be fair, Joan has done much of the heavy lifting. She introduced me to the Catholic Church and helped (not forced) me find my way spiritually. She has set high standards for our family which has allowed our two boys to develop into fine men. She is a rock personally and professionally. She didn't miss a beat this year when I left our consulting firm. She kept her client base in tact and has formed a partnership with our good friend David Herdlinger. There is no doubt that Kashbox Coaching will be a huge success and gain national prominence.

I was so proud to be with her and watch her accept her award last week. I'm even prouder to be her husband and best friend. The biggest item on my bucket list is to celebrate 50 years of marriage with Joan. Nearly 23 and counting. Congratulations Hon, I love you!