Virginia Rhoades is a name that resonates with adventure, passion, and an unyielding love for teaching and writing. A woman of many talents, Virginia has spent 27 years as a dedicated Kindergarten teacher, shaping young minds and inspiring the next generation. But her life extends far beyond the classroom. As an internationally award-winning author and a world traveler, Virginia has embraced the unknown and followed her passions wherever they have led her. Her journey is a testament to the power of following one’s heart and never being afraid to try something new.
A Lifelong Love for Teaching
Virginia’s career in early childhood education was born out of a genuine love for the little ones. From the very beginning, she found joy in being around young children and teaching them about the world. “I was inspired to pursue a career in early childhood because I loved being around the little ones,” she shares. “I enjoyed teaching them about the fresh new world around them. I never got bored or tired when working with them.”
For Virginia, teaching was never just a job—it was a calling. Her enthusiasm and passion for early childhood education made her a beloved figure in the lives of countless students. Her influence extended beyond academics, as she sought to instill a sense of curiosity and wonder in her students, encouraging them to explore the world with open hearts and minds.
Adventures Across the Globe
Virginia’s adventurous spirit is evident in her extensive travels, which have taken her to several different continents. Her love for the open ocean has been a constant throughout her journeys, having traveled by car, bus, train, motorcycle, and ship. “I have traveled all over by car, bus, train, motorcycle, and ship. As evidenced by my over forty cruises, I have always enjoyed the open ocean and its unique sounds and sights most of all,” she says.
Among her many adventures, Virginia recalls two experiences that stand out. One was in Tahiti, where she donned a diving helmet and walked on the ocean floor, surrounded by tiny, gorgeous fish. Another was in Scotland, where she marveled at Skara Brae, a prehistoric village older than Stonehenge. These experiences, along with countless others, have enriched her life and provided endless inspiration for her writing.
Virginia’s travels have also taken her on historic journeys, such as a river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, where she immersed herself in the rich history of Europe. Her seven cruises to Unalaska, where she viewed the wondrous glaciers of Glacier Bay and College Fjord, are among her most cherished memories. These adventures have not only fulfilled her love for exploration but have also deepened her connection to the world and its diverse cultures.
The Joy of Family and Writing
Central to Virginia’s life is her close-knit and adventurous family. She describes being surrounded by such a caring, adventurous, and high-spirited family as the highlight of her existence. Her family has played a significant role in her journey as both an educator and an author, offering support and inspiration every step of the way. Virginia’s journey to becoming a published author is one of perseverance and passion. She began writing in junior high school, and despite her mother’s advice that she needed more experiences to be a writer, she continued to write throughout her life. “My mom once told me I didn’t have enough experiences to be a writer yet. Perhaps now I have,” she reflects.
Her writing gained new momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic when she contributed to an anthology published by her local library. During this time, her family of 18 formed a bubble and embarked on camping trips to private campgrounds, visiting breathtaking locations like the Grand Canyon, Zion, Yosemite, and San Diego. These experiences, filled with precious companionship and shared adventures, provided rich material for her writing.
In her retirement years, Virginia has had the opportunity to travel with her daughter, an award-winning author of children’s books. Together, they have explored the world, gathering information for their respective writing projects. Her daughter has been a significant inspiration, encouraging Virginia to continue traveling, exploring, and writing about their shared adventures.
Recognition and Advice for Aspiring Writers
Virginia’s accomplishments as a writer were recognized on an international stage when she received the Everywoman TV Award in Dublin, Ireland, for being a first-time independent author. “It was a thrilling experience to be awarded this honor, especially in such a picturesque and lovely country as Ireland,” she shares.
For aspiring writers and educators, Virginia offers simple yet powerful advice: “Just start—don’t wait another day to begin your new writing adventure. Start now—step out into your passions and dreams, and they will open up to you.”
Virginia Rhoades’ life is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. Whether in the classroom, on the open seas, or through the written word, Virginia has lived her life to the fullest, inspiring others to do the same. Her journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your dreams and that the world is full of opportunities waiting to be explored.
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