Posts By: Barb Godin

Barb Godin

Barbara Godin is a graduate of Athabasca University. She writes the “”Dear Barb” and the “Women of Interest” columns. As well, Barb has written many personal interest stories and enjoys connecting with others through her writing. She has been writing for The Voice since 2003.

If you enjoy reading Dear Barb, you can also purchase her curated collection, Dear Barb: Answers to Everyday Questions at her website, http://www.barbgodin.com.

Women of Interest—Mary Ann Shadd Cary

“It is better to wear out than rust out.” (Mary Ann Shadd Cary)   Mary Ann Shadd Cary was North America’s first black woman to publish a newspaper.  She was viewed as an outspoken, forthright woman who overstepped the boundaries of a typical black woman in the 1800’s.  Mary Ann was also a notable figure… Read more »

Dear Barb—Phone Smart?

Dear Barb: Help! I’m addicted to my phone, and I hate it! It’s the first thing I look at in the morning and the last thing at night.  At least I don’t bring my phone into the bedroom with me at night like some of my friends do.  But I’m always checking my phone, even… Read more »

Dear Barb—Slim Shading

Dear Barb: Hi, I read your column every week and love it! Myself and three other girls grew up together and remain good friends.  We are now in our thirties and we have all had weight issues.  We’ve tried various diets and procedures to lose weight and initially the weight comes off, but eventually it… Read more »

Dear Barb—Coached

Dear Barb: My life is a mess! I just graduated AU and I was fortunate to secure a fantastic job making great money.  For the last few years my main focus has been getting through school and I kind of let everything else go.  Now I’ve started my new job, but I’m not sure how… Read more »

Women of Interest—Susan Kare

Susan Kare is an artist and graphic designer who created many recognizable icons for the Apple Macintosh computer.  Some of Kare’s creations include the Chicago and Geneva typeface, as well as the original Monaco typeface, and the “Happy Mac”, which is the smiling face that opens up when a user turns on their machines.  The… Read more »

Dear Barb—Aborted Relationship

Dear Barb: I am in a situation! I have been dating my boyfriend for three years.  We are in different provinces and both attending university.    Ben and I get along great and have never really had a serious argument or break up.  We try to see each other as much as we can and plan… Read more »

Dear Barb—The Ex Factor

Dear Barb: My boyfriend and I have been dating for about a year.  Prior to dating Jay I was involved in a serious relationship for five years and we had planned to eventually marry.  My ex was everything I wanted; I loved him tremendously.  But he cheated on me and I was devastated.  Even though… Read more »

Dear Barb—Putting away Childish Things

Dear Barb: I am twenty-seven years old and live with my parents.  I have my degree and am working full time.  I was living away from home while I attended university, but moved back when I graduated.  I planned to move out when I got a full time job, but I love it at home. … Read more »

Dear Barb—The Ties that Don’t Bind

Dear Barb: My adult son has cut off all ties with me and I am devastated! Since his dad and I divorced my son and I have always had issues.  There seems to be a tension between us, almost like he is blaming me for the divorce.  I did make the choice to leave the… Read more »

Dear Barb—Reunion Reciprocation

Dear Barb: I grew up in a somewhat dysfunctional family. My parents divorced when we were all quite young, and the divorce was angry and bitter. This bitterness became a part of our household and our relationships with each other.  As soon as we were able to we left home and rarely spoke to each… Read more »