I have been humbled by a recent award from the Minnesota Speech-Language-Hearing Association 

Most of us probably became SLPs because we wanted to help others. How I chose this occupation, in particular, was just a lucky guess by seeing the major listed in a college catalog. I had never really heard of speech-language pathology, but it looked intriguing. I selected that as my major in addition to elementary education. I needed a back-up plan just in case this "speech therapy thing" didn't work out.

Being an SLP has been a perfect fit for me. By combining this job with my other passions and skills, I have been to so many places, have learned so many things, and have met some incredible people along the way.

I would choose this path again and again!

In April, while on another new adventure creating mosaics in Mexico, I was also honored by MNSHA as a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award. I was very surprised and very honored and accepted this award virtually. Here is what was said.

MNSHA Lifetime Achievement Award

MNSHA is excited to announce the first of three recipients of the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award: Rachel Arntson!

This prestigious award was presented during the Honors & Awards Ceremony during the virtual convention held on April 21st, 2023.

Rachel has dedicated her career to enhancing the lives of families and her unwavering passion for her work is evident as she pours her heart into her work. She established her own company, merging her passions for music and speech-language pathology, resulting in Kid's Express Train and later Talk It Rock It. Her innovative products foster engaging and enjoyable communication experiences for children.

Rachel has invested countless hours lecturing and conducting seminars for organizations supporting children and families in need. Her vibrant personality, artistic talents, and authenticity make her a cherished friend and colleague, and her exceptional skills as an SLP are widely recognized. She serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her and is a significant asset to our profession.

Congratulations Rachel on this well deserved award!

What a great way to close my SLP chapter. Thank you to those who nominated me. I am deeply touched and honored.

I am slowly moving on from Talk It Rock It, but I find it difficult to totally stop something that I love so deeply. I will continue to sell Talk It Rock It products for as long as I can keep the online store open. I will no longer be speaking at conferences or having exhibit booths at conventions.

I feel content about that decision. I have so many other exciting things to do now. Retirement is a chance to explore those parts of me that I never had time to do when working. I essentially worked 2 fulltime jobs for countless years. It's now time to create MOSAICS! :)