The Journey
Welcome to The Journey, a space where Mary McKSchmidt shares her transition from business executive to advocate, photographer, poet, and storyteller. Here, she invites you to walk alongside her as she explores life in the Great Lakes region, its beauty and fragility, and the bonds that connect us all.
Is Chicago Up for the Challenge?
Thursday, I had the privilege of being in conversation with David Ullrich at the Union League Club of Chicago, discussing my book, Uncharted Waters. My goal—in addition to talking about the book—was to plant a seed. I would like the city of Chicago to...
Are We Up to the Good Stuff of the 1890s?
On Thursday, February 7th, I will be the luncheon guest at the Union League Club of Chicago. It promises to be a lively and informative event as I am to be in conversation with Great Lakes advocate and ambassador David Ullrich*. For more information,...
What Happened to Pure Michigan?
On Tuesday, December 4th, Michigan’s Senate passed Bill 1211, legislation that eliminates protection for lakes and wetlands, allowing for the dredging, filling, and development of nearly a half a million acres of wetlands and more than 4,000 lakes. This...
Another One of His Great Ideas
I have to admit, I wasn’t sure about writing fiction when I floated the possibility of The Box in July’s blog. As you may recall, it was Rubin’s idea . . . “I’m telling you, you need to write fiction,” he said from the cockpit of our sailboat...
Is That Okay?
The waters of Lake Macatawa in September. While duckweed is not an alga and is not harmful, an overabundance does indicate high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus caused largely by agricultural runoff. Is green the new blue? Is that okay? Inspired, in part, by Dan...
Looking Beyond the Mailbox Stuffers
I spent last week on my first official author tour, travelling across northern Michigan talking with people about the Great Lakes--about our beaches, our dunes, cliffs, wildflowers, parks, and the quality of life alongside these bodies of water. It was energizing to...
Can One Person Make a Difference?
This morning, like most mornings, I ran inland for roughly an hour. It is part of my daily ritual, providing me time to reflect, to meditate, and, of course, to sweat. My cool-down walk along the shores of Lake Michigan is my treat to myself. My heart...
Three Things I Learned About Influencing Congressional Leaders
In my former life as an executive, I served as a board member for the company’s Political Action Committee (PAC). Professionally trained to influence Congressional leaders, I joined our Washington D.C. lobbyists in advocating on behalf of renal patients needing...
August Skosh: Thinking About Goals Along the Betsie Valley Trail
Absorbed in the hunt for the blazing fire of the hawkweed and the velvety pouch of the Lady’s-slipper,at first, I do not see the stubby legsof the snapping turtle digging so purposely in the stony soil. That can bethe...
When We Can See the Anchor
Photo taken off the shores of South Manitou IslandThis week’s question is framed by a favorite scientist who is working tirelessly, watershed by watershed, to improve the quality of water along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan. His question to elected leaders and...
Is Green the New Blue?
Lake Michigan outside Douglas, MI on Wednesday, August 8th. Please share this photograph with others.You think it can’t happen to Lake Michigan, until it does. Ribbons of a lime-green algae rolled in with the waves the morning of August 8th outside Douglas, MI. I...
How Can I Not?
Friends ask me how I can launch a grassroots effort to prioritize clean water at a time when my primary focus is on being present with a loved one diagnosed with a serious health issue. It’s a good question. When the unexpected news shook our lives so...