The story of Karen and Harriet

I was a skin care consultant with Mary Kay cosmetics. And Mary Kay Ashe told the story of how a Bumblebee should not be able to fly. Its large body was too big for its tiny wings. But since the bumblebee didn’t know that she flew anyways. It was a story and symbol that Mary Kay used to inspire everyone in her company. If we believe in ourselves, then we can do anything. What a great message for us all.

 

I had the idea to create a bumblebee character to pass that wonderful life lesson along to children. She could inspire children to discover who they are, what they love, and to believe in themselves. She could teach children how to follow their dreams while having great adventures. In a notebook that I still have to this day, I scribbled my ideas and set it aside.

 

I named the Bumblebee Harriet after my grandmother. A women less than five feet tall who had a can – do spirit! Harriet raised three children on her own. She worked hard to put a modest meal on the dinner table. And at the young age of 75, Harriet learned how to drive to stay independent. If that doesn’t speak to someone facing their fear and doing it anyways – then I don’t know what does. She couldn’t even see over the dashboard! So, we gave her a pillow to sit on. After all, queens should sit upon a pillow!

 

Back in 1998, I told myself I didn’t have the time to write these stories since I was raising my three children. But maybe I just didn’t have the confidence? Who was I to become an author? But in November of 2021 those things didn’t matter anymore. With extra time on my hands and a burst of confidence from someone who believed in my writing skills, I began to write the stories. (Thank you M.D.) So now I write these stories for my grandson Callum and any other child who comes across these books. I also write them for me. It is indeed about the journey!

 

As a tribute to my grandmother Harriet, 10% of the profits from my book series Adventures of Harriet the Bumblebee will go to food pantries in: Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

 

Even though she is no longer living. Thank you, Mary Kay, for sharing your dream, your business ethics and of course the story of the Bumblebee. You are forever a role model!

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If you read this far, thank you. We all have great stories to share. I would love to know yours. ~ Karen

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