It’s that time of year when the wearin’ o’ the green is on high demand. With a name like Patti McBride (maiden name) you can’t help but get excited. We really get into the spirit of the celebration and spending time with family.... which includes my “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” tee shirt, green hair, anything that is crazy and green, then going to the St. Pat’s parade in St. Louis, finishing the day enjoying a few Guinness and last but not least Corned Beef and Cabbage. It’s just a good time to honor our heritage.

Inside this issue you will find many women to celebrate. One of them is our feature story on Kelly Backes and her passion for animals and her love of life is reflected in her story. Enjoy the up close and personal interview with Kelly and her husband David.

The story on page 10 is all about Young Women of Achievement who are all from Belleville High Schools and excelled during their high school years. It’s a Where Are They Now follow up and you will be amazed at what these young women have achieved in such a short time.

Thank you to our Lipstik staff writer for sharing her story on page 9 . It is a journey that will amaze you, Rebekah Hoffmann is a lady we all want to be. She has made a change in her life that is remarkable.....you go girl.

Sooo.... February; which is considered the month of LOVE, is gone but love is still in the air for the Lipstik Staff. For one staff member it was really in the air on February 7, 2013. Congratulations to Melissa and John on their marriage. By the way, I am the person who introduced Melissa and John to each other. I wish them many years of Health, Wealth and Happiness. Take a minute and share in their happy day, see more on the Smooch page.

Ok you know the routine....grab a hand full of that Easter candy you have put back for Easter, sit back and enjoy Lipstik Magazine.