...entering this room of admirable women... you start to wonder... why would anyone want to set aside a room honouring just women? Isn't that sexist, or maybe a bit silly? ...and then... you realize... that honouring others is something that we all should do... even in small ways... because if you know someone, male or female, with amazing qualities... or admire another whom you pattern your own life after... giving them a little recognition is not sexist, or silly... really, it's the very least we can offer... so, while this is one way to honour everyday heroes and admirable lives... perhaps you will find another way to honour them within your journey through life... and let another know what they mean to you... male, or female... it will be appreciated by them...

It's hard enough just being yourself, but with the brunt of the work raising children and taking care of a home, combined with a career and social life resting on our shoulders... well, being a woman is a  great job. Great as in huge, and great as in wonderful!

The women of today are larger than life... and with good reason. We're talented, smart, loving, brave, and willing to take a chance on ourselves and those we love. Perfection is no longer an option, and most of us strive for our personal bests and not anyone else's idea of what or who we are.

I've wanted to set up a page of tribute for those women out there that I admire for quite awhile. Many of them are online, with links to information about them. If you know of someone who is a superwoman, and deserves the honour of a brief bio on this page, please contact me.

Mom
This is one woman who shall always have a special place in my heart... my mother... *smile* She's so much fun, with a great sense of humour, a wonderful work ethic and talented musician, singer and artist. She's handy around the house, and has a wonderful gift with knitting, painting, sewing, and crafts of all kinds. Everyone always tells me how beautiful she is, and after I'm done blushing, I always agree (hope I got those genes!) She's always been supportive and helpful, and nothing has proved this more than the stress and chaos of planning a wedding! What I admire most about my mom is her ability to be strong in the face of adversity.

Claudine
During trying times, it's common to find out who your true friends are. Claudine and I almost ended up as bitter enemies when someone we knew decided to spread a lie... but try as they might, not even they could tear our friendship apart. The whole episode actually brought us closer together! *smile* As a strong, opinionated, intelligent and successful woman, Claudine has shown me there's much more to life than just material things. She's been through hard times and life-threatening illness, and lives each day as if it's a beautiful gift. She's taught me a lot, especially about what it takes to be a unique person! Claudine always stands behind me when times are tough, and beside me to hold my hand and guide me at the same time. She's a friend in every sense of the word.

Diann Vail
Diann is one of those women that you fall in love with immediately upon meeting her. She is kind, sweet, and very family-oriented. She runs a business for and about women - one publication she puts out is called the "Women's Business Directory" (soon to be found online). Diann has many great qualities, but what I really admire is her stamina, generosity, and friendliness.

Margaret Atwood
Canadian writer and poet with a biting sense of humour and amazing insight. I've been reading her work since I was assigned a History project about her in grade 9. I'm always blown away by her realism and passion in her storytelling, every time I open one of her books. In my opinion, she's a true literary goddess. Read about some of her books.

Julie Richman
Julie is an artist, a mother, a grandmother, and a Paris Community Leader. She's very active in her GeoCities Community, and not afraid to learn new things. Always sweet, patient, and willing to help, Julie is an instant friend to all she encounters. Visit her web page and learn a little more about this amazing woman.

Karen Davis
Karen stepped into some pretty big shoes when she took over the Community Leader Program from Mark, but somehow made the transition seamlessly. She's a smart, interesting, fair, active woman, who always manages to keep everyone happy, and their best interests in mind. Karen seems to be one of those great online people who would be a real pleasure to meet in RT. Visit Karen's page to learn more about her.

Links:

	Join the Candlelight Vigil across the Internet! Help raise awareness of violence against women.
	Canadian Women's Internet Asscociation. Lots of helpful resources.
	Chatelaine's online magazine - a vast site with a ton of info and forums for discussion. A "must" for Canadian women!
	I'm proud to be named a member of this elite group, and what it stands for.