Story & Lesson Highlights with Ann Lykins of Denver Metro

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ann Lykins. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Ann, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I feel like I am wandering down a path! Each day is new, different & exciting. While I try to discipline myself into a “sort of” routine, plans are likely to change before I even roll out of bed in the morning. I like a sunrise up, a couple of miles walk with my dog to begin the day in prayer/reflection & quietly connecting with friends.

There is always something needing done, and having a running list helps me not procrastinate. I love daily variance—which is what makes it feel like wandering–but always headed forward!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I began twisting balloons & face painting back in 1998. As a single mom with 7 kids (out of 12) left at home, it brought welcome income & enabled me to continue homeschooling.
Because we had lived a “faith life” on 3 different continents, the intermittent income was somewhat familiar & kept me both “on my knees”, &also gave us the mean to continue to help others. We began to run food & clothing to various western reservations.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think lack of love–be it self-righteousness, violence, self-harm, politics, pride, selfishness, all contribute to boxing us into our own small world of “me”.

Contrary to that, the exact opposite, Love— is what restores & rebuilds. I have to continually position myself to follow those Whispers—
usually they are small voice that reminds me to hold that door for the busy mom, stop to interact wholeheartedly with someone (when conflicted by my own agenda)—Just make a small difference when I am called. The times that I do are the best days. It’s enheartening to be part of someone’s tapestry, maybe not an important role, but a bright thread that enhances.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
The defining wounds of my life?

Leaving my marriage, for the betterment of my children.

The passage of two of my sons, one from suicide, one from a cocaine overdose.

All three experiences absolutely devastated me & took me lower than I thought possible to survive.

I had no choice, but to just keep putting one foot in front of the other, I had family that needed me.

Shattered, I had to keep my eyes firmly fixed on Heaven, and knowing that this too would somehow, someday, “work together for good, to them the love the Lord”. (Romans 8:28) It made no sense to me, it didn’t need to, He said it, I could choose to believe it or not. I clung–not with strength, but with desperation.

That foundation, no matter how much I crumbled, stood firm. I functioned & slowly began to remember that happiness always seems to thrive best in service to others.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Well, first & foremost, Jesus.

I am blessed to work in an industry with agents, artists & entertainers who share their talents to bring joy to others. Gentle, self-depreciating souls that drop a touch of love in the lives of those they interact with. I am privileged to call them friends, & value how they stretch my character.

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”
– Mother Teresa

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days. 
I relish the gift of bringing joy. I love the opportunity to connect with so many unique individuals. I feel truly blessed!

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Image Credits
All photos were taken in public venues by the artist.

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