RHS graduate is a colorful character and author

On a late January afternoon in Thompson, North Dakota, Tallena (née Lisell) Thom, laughed about her busy life as a stay-at-home mom and author, her messy house, and her travels as a hockey parent and Cub Scout leader.

Oh, she can write!

Not only has she published at least four books on Amazon, she also writes a blog in which she tackles touchy and pertinent topics.

There is one other thing.

The women in her books aren't dainty damsels waiting to be rescued. They're take-charge women.

Visualize a female Rocky with a good right jab and some fancy footwork.

"I guess the biggest theme is that my f...