5 Truths About Success—And Why I’m Still Showing Up

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5 Truths About Success—And Why I’m Still Showing Up

I recently stumbled across an article by Barbara Corcoran. If you don’t know who she is, don’t worry—I didn’t either. But the title of her piece caught my eye: short, punchy, and promising. 5 ‘Truths About Success’ That Could Make You Rich. I like short. I love to-the-point. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t be curious about getting rich?

Now, I’m like most folks. I wouldn’t turn down wealth, but I’m not chasing yachts or private islands. For me, “rich” means having enough: enough to pay the bills, fix up my home, travel a little, and treat friends to a nice dinner now and then. That’s my sweet spot.

Barbara Corcoran, as it turns out, rose from childhood poverty to become a real estate powerhouse, investor, entrepreneur, and TV personality on Shark Tank. She’s someone who turned adversity into opportunity. Her five truths resonated deeply—especially as I build my own store, Welcoming Haven, from the ground up.

Here’s what she shared, and how it’s showing up in my journey:

  1. It’s Lonely at the Start.
    Barbara’s husband left her early on. In my case, I’m pushing this store solo. Some days, it feels like I’m the only one who believes in it.
  2. People Will Doubt You… Then Ask How You Did It.
    I haven’t hit the “how’d you do it?” phase yet. Right now, I’m surrounded by skeptics. One neighbor told me he spends a fortune on QVC—but won’t buy a single T-shirt from me. He’s watching to see if I fail. That stings.
  3. It Takes Longer Than You Think.
    I dove into e-commerce with minimal research and big hopes. I thought I’d be earning a modest income by month three. Now I’m in month five, still chasing that goal. But I’ve connected with others who’ve succeeded, and they say the real timeline is six months to a year. Lesson learned: patience is part of the process.
  4. It Feels Impossible Before It Works.
    Five months in, sales are sluggish. Traffic’s decent, but conversions are slow. Still, I’m not giving up. I’m tweaking, learning, and staying the course.
  5. And When It Does Work, You’ll Wonder Why You Ever Doubted Yourself.
    I haven’t reached that moment yet—but I’m holding space for it. I can’t wait to look back and smile at how far I’ve come.

 

Final Thoughts:

Success isn’t always flashy. Sometimes it’s quiet persistence, showing up day after day even when no one’s cheering. Barbara’s truths reminded me that doubt, delay, and discomfort are part of the journey—not signs to quit. So if you’re building something—whether it’s a business, a dream, or a new chapter—know this: you’re not alone. Keep going. The “why did I ever doubt myself?” moment might be closer than you think.

Tower in the Sea

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Rising from the waves like a sentinel of stone, Boon Island Light is New England’s tallest lighthouse—and one of its most haunting maritime landmarks. With a nod to my sister’s enduring love of lighthouses and a dash of wanderlust, I invite you to explore the story of this remote Maine beacon, where history, hardship, and the sea converge.

 

🌊 A Tower in the Sea: Introduction to Boon Island Light

Located 6.5 miles off the coast of York, Maine, Boon Island Light is the tallest lighthouse in New England, rising 133 feet from a barren outcrop in the Atlantic. Its isolated perch and storm-battered silhouette have made it a symbol of resilience and maritime vigilance.

🕰️ From Shipwrecks to Signals: A Storied Past

Drawing of the Nottingham Galley shipwreck

The island’s name may stem from early fishermen who left provisions for shipwrecked sailors—a “boon” in desperate times. But its most infamous tale is the 1710 wreck of the Nottingham Galley, whose crew resorted to cannibalism to survive. This tragedy sparked calls for a permanent warning beacon.

Builders erected the first lighthouse in 1811, but relentless storms repeatedly tore down those early structures. In 1855, they completed the current granite tower, outfitting it with a second-order Fresnel lens and a fog horn that still sounds every 10 seconds.

🛠️ Automation and Preservation

After a devastating blizzard in 1978 washed away all keeper dwellings, the station was automated in 1980. Today, Boon Island Light remains an active aid to navigation, owned by the U.S. Coast Guard and leased to the American Lighthouse Foundation, though it’s in need of major restoration.

🚫 Remote and Inaccessible—Yet Irresistible

Boon Island is not open to the public, and its rocky terrain makes landings treacherous. Still, its allure draws lighthouse enthusiasts and historians. Scenic boat tours occasionally pass by, offering distant glimpses of this stoic sentinel.

📚 Legacy in Literature and Lore

The lighthouse’s grim history inspired Kenneth Roberts’ novel “Boon Island”, and its stark beauty has been described as “an eternal exclamation mark” by 19th-century writer Samuel Adams Drake. It’s a place where nature, history, and human endurance collide.

 

🌍 Hidden Gems & Internet Shenanigans: My Accidental Travel Checklist

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Surfing the Web, Stumbling into Wanderlust

One of my guilty pleasures since being forcefully retired (yes, I’m still salty) is cruising around the internet. It’s a rabbit hole of weird and wonderful discoveries—and we all know if it’s on the internet, it must be true, right?

I especially love lists. Bucket lists, travel lists, “best of” lists—I devour them like popcorn. I scroll through to see what I’ve done, what I’ve missed, and whether I agree with the writer’s take. Recently, I stumbled across a list of “Hidden Gems.” I expected obscure spots I’d never heard of, but surprise surprise—I’ve actually been to a few!

❄️ Leavenworth, Washington: Alpine Charm Without the Prison

The list kicks off with Leavenworth, Washington—a mountain village with alpine architecture, festive vibes, and wintery fun like sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Sounds magical… if you like snow. I, however, am a blanket-loving, cold-avoiding creature. Sleigh rides? Maybe. Snow? Hard pass.

Oh, and just to clear up a common misconception: the infamous Leavenworth prison is in Kansas, not Washington. So no need to worry about bunking with inmates on your holiday getaway.

🏖️ St. Augustine, Florida: History with a Sea Breeze

Now this one I have visited. St. Augustine is described as “old world elegance meets coastal calm,” and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a dream for history buffs and beachcombers alike.

I wandered through the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park (Ponce de León sightings: frequent), and explored Castillo de San Marcos—the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. It looked nothing like the northern forts I grew up with, and that made it all the more fascinating.

Castillo de San Marcos – Photo Credit Deb Neumann

🏜️ Village of Oak Creek, Arizona: Sedona’s Serene Sister

Been there, done that—and I’d do it again. Oak Creek is often overshadowed by Sedona, but it’s a gem in its own right. Rich red rocks, peaceful vibes, and spa-worthy stays make it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. I’ve visited more than once, and each time feels like a fresh discovery.

Red Rocks –photo credit Deb Neumann

🏞️ Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Victorian Whimsy in the Ozarks

I haven’t made it to Eureka Springs yet, but it’s on the “maybe” list. It’s described as a quirky small town with Victorian charm, winding hills, and upscale cabins tucked into the Ozarks. Kayaking and underground tours sound fun… though my joints might disagree. Still, never say never.

🌊 Mendocino, California: Cliffside Calm and Coastal Cuisine

Now this one has my attention. Mendocino promises cliffside inns, local vineyards, and oceanfront escapes. Food, wine, and waves? Yes, please. I could definitely get into that kind of coastal calm.

✨ What’s Next?

There’s still so much to explore—new places to discover and old favorites to revisit. Maybe I missed something the first time around. Maybe I’ll find a new favorite. Either way, the journey continues… one internet list at a time.

 

Echoes Over Water: The Enchanting World of the Common Loon

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A Song That Haunts the Lakes

If you’ve ever spent a quiet evening near a northern lake, chances are you’ve heard it—that eerie, tremolo call drifting across the water like a ghost of the wilderness. The common loon (Gavia immer) is more than just a bird; it’s a symbol of solitude, wildness, and the deep stillness of nature. Their calls range from mournful wails to yodels that echo across the surface, each one a language of territory, courtship, and connection.

They Wear Drama Like a Cloak

In summer, loons dazzle with black heads, dagger-like bills, and checkerboard backs that shimmer under sunlight. Their red eyes pierce the water as they dive for fish. Built for swimming, loons push through lakes with powerful strokes, thanks to legs set far back on their bodies. On land, they waddle awkwardly—but in water, they reign. You’ll rarely see a loon on land unless it’s nesting.

Photo Credit Jim Neumann

Parenting on the Water

Loons nest close to shore, often on small islands or floating vegetation. Both parents share the duties, and once the chicks hatch, they ride on their parents’ backs to stay warm and safe. It’s one of nature’s most endearing sights—tiny fluffballs hitching a ride across the lake.

Photo credit Jim Neumann

A Shout-Out to My Brother

This post wouldn’t be complete without a huge shout-out to my brother, Jim, whose loon photography captures their mystique with breathtaking clarity. His lens finds the soul of these birds—the shimmer of water, the intensity of their gaze, the quiet power of their presence. His photos remind us that loons aren’t just birds; they’re storytellers of the wild.

Photo Credit Jim Neumann

Where to Spot Them

In Massachusetts, loons are more common in the Berkshires and northern lakes. They have been spotted in places like Quabbin Reservoir.  During migration you might even find them near coastal waters. Keep your ears open and your binoculars ready—these birds are worth the wait.

Photo credit Jim Neumann

My brother’s Photos were taken on Lake George, NY

 

 

Need a Last Minute Gift Idea?

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Heads up, kitchen explorers!
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click and buy—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and treasures I truly love and think you will too. Thanks for helping keep the oven warm and the creativity flowing at Around Dusty Roads and Welcoming Haven!

Why Kitchen Tools Make Great Gifts

How many times have you heard someone say, “Oh, I don’t cook”? Every gathering turns into pizza delivery or Chinese takeout. These non-cooks have never experienced the joy of serving a home-cooked meal and watching friends and family dig in with delight.

🔪 From Intimidation to Inspiration

When you’re just starting out, the kitchen can feel like a foreign land—filled with mysterious gadgets and intimidating expectations. At first, it may seem overwhelming. However, with just a few essential tools, that sense of dread can begin to fade. Before long, cooking transforms from a chore into a creative, rewarding ritual—one that brings joy, confidence, and delicious results

🧰 Essential Tools for a Welcoming Kitchen

I’m a firm believer in having the right tool for the right job. Sure, I improvise now and then—but let’s start with the basics and see if we can outfit your kitchen to become a true Welcoming Haven.

🧰 Your Starter Kitchen Toolkit

Here are my must-have essentials for any budding home cook:

  • Chef’s Knife – The MVP of the kitchen. A broad, sharp blade makes chopping, slicing, mincing, and dicing a dream. Invest in one good knife and you’ll feel like a pro. Shop here
  • Saucepan (3–4 Quart) – Look for a heavy-bottomed pan with a secure handle and tight-fitting lid. Nonstick options make cleanup a breeze. Shop here
  • Skillet – A good skillet conducts heat evenly and lasts for years. Stainless steel, cast iron, or lined copper are excellent choices. Nonstick is great for beginners. Shop here
  • Baking Sheet – Choose a sturdy, rimmed sheet made of heavy-gauge aluminum or steel. Skip nonstick here—those coatings wear out and can affect your results. Shop Here
  • Colander – Essential for draining pasta or rinsing produce. Simple, but indispensable. Shop here
  • Mixing Bowls – You can’t whip up a cake without something to mix it in! Stainless steel is durable and versatile, glass is microwave-safe, and plastic is lightweight (but can stain over time). Shop Here
  • Can Opener – Electric models are convenient, but a manual opener (like the OXO Good Grips) is a must-have—especially during power outages. Shop Here
  • Wooden Spoon & Silicone Spatula – Wooden spoons are gentle on cookware and stay cool to the touch. A silicone spatula is perfect for mixing, scraping, and folding. Shop Here
  • Peeler – More efficient (and safer) than a paring knife for many tasks. Great for potatoes, carrots, apples—you name it. Shop Here
  • Digital Kitchen Thermometer – Crucial for food safety. Don’t guess—know when your meat, poultry, or eggs are cooked to safe temperatures. Shop Here
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision matters. These tools help you follow recipes accurately and recreate your favorite dishes every time. Shop Here
  • Tongs – Protect your hands while flipping, lifting, or serving hot food. Once you have them, you’ll wonder how you cooked without them. Shop Here
  • Cutting Boards – Protect your counters and prevent cross-contamination. Use separate boards for meat, veggies, and bread for extra safety. Shop Here

🍳 Start Simple, Cook Confidently

These are my go-to essentials for anyone starting their culinary journey. Of course, there are plenty more tools you can add over time—but this kit will give you a solid foundation.

I didn’t include storage containers because most folks already have something for leftovers. But if you’re gifting, a set of glass containers or beeswax wraps makes a lovely add-on.

As Julia Child would say—Bon appétit!