We always ask ourselves,O.K. I need to rephrase that. "I "always ask myself every year, when I am transitioning my winter clothes to spring if I should chuck or keep? Do you do that? Well after some research I came across the Do's and Dont's for spring fashion this year.. I hope this helps.. So when you are ready to tackle your transition ,hopefully you will know what to keep and what to donate..
DO'S
Wear Beautiful Blue Hues.. They are smoking hot this season...
Floral Prints... Bigger the better "I think"
Fringe is still to stay.. Not my Fav, but to each is own...
Ruffles I love them and J.crew has some amazing tops this year for casual elegance
My personal Favorite Hobo bags... I love them and even if they fall off the "Do" list they will always be worn on my shoulder...
"OH" The boyfriend Blazer... The best place to find fun,unique ones... Vintage shops,good wills love them great with a worn pair of denim or a flirty mini dress.. Love it!
This one stays close to my heart.. The "BIG" statement necklace.. I am all for this one.. The more unique the better..
Chunky over sized rings
Anything Serpent.. Necklace,Rings etc...
DONT'S
"BRIGHT"Colored Jeans... They need to go away PLEASE!
Mary- Jane Flats... Say Good Bye!
Long Vests... Oh it's been too long Bye Bye..
Remember if you haven't worn it in a year toss it.. Great way to clean out your closets, host a swap party... Have your friends clean out their clothes,Jewelry,Handbags,Shoes and swap great way to recycle and create a new look for yourself...
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Book Review Mother Daze!
Mother Daze Tales from the Imperfect Playground by Christine Carr.
When my first child was born ten years ago I had no clue what an adventure I was about to embark upon. So much love spilling over in my heart. So much to learn about parenting. So much sleep deprivation. I wish at that time that I had a copy of the book Mother Daze by Christine Carr. Christine is a married Mom of three children who has a daytime gig as a grade school PE teacher. She is candid and funny as she relates stories of her parenting mishaps and triumphs. Oftentimes this book is laugh out loud hilarious. This book is a must read for us Moms who never seem to have a spare second for ourselves. I found myself nodding my head in agreement while I was reading many of the chapters; especially Chapter 3 The Mental F-Bomb and Chapter 11 That Face In The Mirror.
This book put a smile on my face and left me feeling reassured about the parenting job that I am doing with my own two girls. It is a celebration of Moms everywhere. I am grateful that I was able to review this fun to read book. Review By: Wendi
Mother Daze Review
I received my book in an envelope with it personally signed by the author which was a nice touch. This is a beautiful book from a mother who gives detailed raw messages about her pregnancy and being a mom. It is very helpful for moms to be and current moms. As a current mom, I enjoyed identifying with several of the stories and thinks that I thought about but haven't talked to other moms about. The illustrations throughout the book put a smile on my face. I would recommend this read to a mom for a realistic point of view. Review By: Linda
Have you ever gone over to someone Else's house and seen how their children act and think well I guess my kids aren't so bad? Or seen all the clutter and thought, well my house isn't so dirty? Come on admit it. I have one friend that I love going to her house because then I don't feel so bad about my house and kids.
Mother Daze - Tales from the Imperfect Playground is a wonderful and funny book about motherhood. Everything about motherhood. Christine Carr tells stories about motherhood that make you say, good, I'm not the only one who did that. I loved reading her book! It's a laugh out loud, make you cry kinda book. You know when you and your girlfriends sit down and talk? This book is just like that. A must read for all moms.
Christine Carr is an Elementary School Physical Education teacher and she suggests if you really want to know how your children are doing in school, ask the PE teacher. They can tell you how your child plays with other children, how they interact on a social level. I'm definitely going to do this the next time I'm at school. Review By: Anne
Mother Daze
Tales from the Imperfect playground
How comforting it is to read a book about motherhood and be able to think, “I’m so glad someone else feels that way.” Being a mother is the hardest, yet most amazing and rewarding thing women will ever do! Christine Carr hit it right on the nail! The experiences made me laugh and cry, hitting so close to home. Having the same feelings, from the first day ever finding out about pregnancy, to adding another and figuring out how to balance it all and feel like a normal person at same time. Then, between all of that, how do we raise these children? She definitely has great advice and wonderful stories to back it up. There are many pages I have marked with quotes I would like to remember and refer to. One favorite is, “Acknowledging we are not perfect is refreshing, and admitting that fact is quite freeing. Release, relax, and most importantly, be free!” Each of us get irritated, frustrated, and overwhelmed, but we love our children more than anything in life and it is okay to have these feelings. “I trust that as long as our children know they are loved, in every sense of the word, they will most definitely be okay.” I believe Christine Carr truly was inspired to write this book for all mothers to know they are amazing! Review By: Melinda
Have you ever felt guilty when another mother lists off the mile long list of extra curricular activities her 6 month old is involved in? Did you look at your child and feel sorry for them assuming they were already behind the curve because you were a slacker mom? Now as a mom of three I realize how ridiculous those things are but when I only had one it was far too easy to fall into parenting traps. Mommy Daze: Tales from the Imperfect Playground by Christine Carr is a light hearted and humorous book. This book is a quick read that will act as the perfect pick me up for any mom who is feeling inadequate in her parenting skills. I love how Christine recounts her own Mommy Daze or as I call it Mommy Brain moments and how her kids turned out just fine. This is the perfect gift for a new mom to help her relax and enjoy being a mom.
Review By: Ellen
Mother Daze By: Christine Carr was a true joy for the begining to end. I am a mom of three and truly related to so many things she talks about... I love that she is direct and to the point. I know we have all read what to do the first year,2nd and so on... This book opens up about the realistic lives of being a mom... We do fall into a world of trying to be perfect and make sure everything is perfect when in reality, it isn't and even when feeling down in the dumps and exhausted that it's O.K. to have these feeling... Motherhood shouldn't be a judgement ,but rather a learning process... I look at it this way. If in the end, our kids say please,thank you,excuse me,god bless you,help others,hold doors,are respectful,love then we did a damn good job of raising them, no matter how hard it is.. Thank You Christine for this book. I loved it... Keep up the good work! Review By: Heather
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Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Need a place to stay in CT??
On a Business trip heading to CT? Courtyard Marriott in Cromwell,CT is where you need to stay. This hotel is known to cater to business travelers.. The staff is very accommodating. Centralized in the state this makes it easy for all highway access... This is also a great Hotel for families that have hockey players... The Marriott is down the street from Champions skate arena. Families come from all over and Courtyard Marriott is always their first choice to stay... And if you are local this is a great place to host an event/party. They even offer kids birthday party packages that include the use of their indoor swimming pool and your choice of an assortment of foods from taco bars to chicken tender feasts.. Love it!
Hotel Highlights:
Full service hotel offering lounge, restaurant, meeting & banquet space, Starbucks & free parking
Business Center with wireless Internet in public areas. Large flexible meeting and banquet space
Convenient location central to New York and Boston just outside Hartford with Free Parking.
Don't forget to Book The Courtyard Marriott when planning your next trip,party or event...
Courtyard Marriott
4 Sebethe Dr.
Cromwell,CT 06416
Phone:1-860-635-1001
Fax:1-860-635-0684
Sales: 1-860-635-1001
Sales Fax: 1-860-635-6478
Monday, February 15, 2010
Shoo Jimmy Choo! Book Review
Shoo, Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill is a must have for every woman struggling to gain control of her finances. While Catey Hill is no Dave Ramsey she is instead your best girlfriend the one who understands your love of fashion and the strong pull of a manicure. Her easy to follow financial makeover plan and conversational writing style will make you forget you are reading about finances. I really identified with Catey Hill as I read this book and i love how she spoke to women not as an expert but as a friend who has been in your shoes and is now in control of her finances. As some one who watches every penny and has read multiple books on finances I did not learn anything new from this book, but I did find a friend. What I mean by that is after reading this book I felt relieved, empowered and a bit less guilty about my secret desire to splurge on a new dress as I strive for financial freedom. I would definitely recommend this book to all of my friends. In Shoo, Jimmy Choo! I finally found a book that addresses my financial needs with real concrete advice on how to fix them. It's all about Style, Diet and Fitness any woman can understand that. Reviewed by: Ellen
Shoo, Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill
I will be the first to admit that when I started reading this book I was not excited. Not a book about finance (my least favorite topic)! So as I started reading I became more and more impressed. Not only impressed, but inspired! This book is so clever! Catey Hill makes a topic that women have a difficult time hearing become interesting. I instantly wanted to clean out my financial closet! Comparing money to things women understand, such as diet, style, and fitness was a great idea. I have never been explained things better by any professional, for example, the health care section. I have had many different types of health insurance and have had them explained to me over and over, but have never fully understood any of it!
This book is great to help organize a budget, track spending, cut back on things that seem to slip through our fingers. I have already started my own charts that Catey has laid out so simple. I think of myself as an excellent bargain shopper, but I realized that doesn’t mean I am good with money! Even after reading this book it will be an excellent source to refer to throughout life when I buy a new home, or car, or do my taxes, etc., because it covers everything! This book is fantastic! I’m on my way to “savvy money management!” Reviewed by: Melinda
Looking to save money for a rainy day or save for retirement or just want to spend less? Check out Shoo, Jimmy Choo - The Modern Girl's Guide to Spending Less and Saving More.
Shoo, Jimmy Choo is a book for anyone looking to cut back on their spending. Caty Hill gives advice and even gives you worksheets so you can do it yourself. You will be guided though style, diet and fitness ...for your finances.
Some chapters included:
The Money Makeover: little or not-so-little financial "touch ups"
The Plastic Purge : curing the "plastic plague"
Climb the Career Ladder: landing your dream job and a pretty paycheck
Push for a Pad: buying a home or being a savvy renter
Written by Catey Hill, money editor of nydailynews.com.Before that she was the marketing manager at Plum TV and the author of The Plum Wealth Report. Catey herself is a recovering shoe addict.
I've read similar books and they're so not interesting. Catey Hill writes a great book with funny stories and scenarios just for women. I pretty much practice much of what is covered in this book, but it was a gentle reminder to stay focused.
Reviewed by: Ann
Shoo, Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill
This is a book I wish I had read in my early twenties. It's full of valuable information on how to get your financial life where you want it to be. From tips on evaluating your spending habits, identifying your spending triggers (this section was really eye-opening for me!) to paying off student loans, investing, and planning for a baby--this book has it all. Usually, finance books are straight-forward, just-the-facts, and slightly (okay A LOT) boring, but this book injects an element of fun into a serious topic. I like her light-hearted style and easy-to-read (and understand) presentation of information. This book is aimed at a younger audience, so I think it would make the perfect high school or college graduation gift. Reviewed by: Vanessa
Shoo, Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill
I will be the first to admit that when I started reading this book I was not excited. Not a book about finance (my least favorite topic)! So as I started reading I became more and more impressed. Not only impressed, but inspired! This book is so clever! Catey Hill makes a topic that women have a difficult time hearing become interesting. I instantly wanted to clean out my financial closet! Comparing money to things women understand, such as diet, style, and fitness was a great idea. I have never been explained things better by any professional, for example, the health care section. I have had many different types of health insurance and have had them explained to me over and over, but have never fully understood any of it!
This book is great to help organize a budget, track spending, cut back on things that seem to slip through our fingers. I have already started my own charts that Catey has laid out so simple. I think of myself as an excellent bargain shopper, but I realized that doesn’t mean I am good with money! Even after reading this book it will be an excellent source to refer to throughout life when I buy a new home, or car, or do my taxes, etc., because it covers everything! This book is fantastic! I’m on my way to “savvy money management!” Reviewed by: Melinda
Looking to save money for a rainy day or save for retirement or just want to spend less? Check out Shoo, Jimmy Choo - The Modern Girl's Guide to Spending Less and Saving More.
Shoo, Jimmy Choo is a book for anyone looking to cut back on their spending. Caty Hill gives advice and even gives you worksheets so you can do it yourself. You will be guided though style, diet and fitness ...for your finances.
Some chapters included:
The Money Makeover: little or not-so-little financial "touch ups"
The Plastic Purge : curing the "plastic plague"
Climb the Career Ladder: landing your dream job and a pretty paycheck
Push for a Pad: buying a home or being a savvy renter
Written by Catey Hill, money editor of nydailynews.com.Before that she was the marketing manager at Plum TV and the author of The Plum Wealth Report. Catey herself is a recovering shoe addict.
I've read similar books and they're so not interesting. Catey Hill writes a great book with funny stories and scenarios just for women. I pretty much practice much of what is covered in this book, but it was a gentle reminder to stay focused.
Reviewed by: Ann
Shoo, Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill
This is a book I wish I had read in my early twenties. It's full of valuable information on how to get your financial life where you want it to be. From tips on evaluating your spending habits, identifying your spending triggers (this section was really eye-opening for me!) to paying off student loans, investing, and planning for a baby--this book has it all. Usually, finance books are straight-forward, just-the-facts, and slightly (okay A LOT) boring, but this book injects an element of fun into a serious topic. I like her light-hearted style and easy-to-read (and understand) presentation of information. This book is aimed at a younger audience, so I think it would make the perfect high school or college graduation gift. Reviewed by: Vanessa
Shoo,Jimmy Choo! By Catey Hill
As described as "The moderns Girl's Guide to spending Less".. I think this book is full of financial information and written in a fashionable style. Catey Hill has fun writing skills and gets to the point. I am 39 and this book would have been a great tool when I was in my twenties. I did take some information to heart though. I have to agree with Vanessa, this would make a great college/high school graduation gift. A eye opener to life, what to do with your money when you get that amazing job etc.. Still I love everything about it. Title,Writing style and information Great job Catey...Simply FABULOUS! Reviewed by: Heather
SHOO, Jimmy Choo.
Beautiful cover, great title. Makes you want to pick it up and read it. It feels light and airy when you first pick it up but this is the bible of all bibles for financials and getting your act straight. Catey Hill gives you everything you need, forms, websites, advice, motivation, etc. to force yourself to look at your financials with a magnifying glass and then put a plan to do something about it. A must read for all women! I loved it! Reviewed By Linda
Friday, February 12, 2010
Friday is a good day to be positive and Love what you have..
I have an amazing story, and I am hoping you will present it on your site because I too am sick of the negativity...there are many positive things happening!
To reiterate and add to our conversation, I am a native Houstonian who has worked in film and television for 25 years. I became widowed four years ago and my life turned upsidedown. My soul mate died suddenly and unexpectedly at age 43 after a 21-year marriage which threw my life into a tailspin. We had no children and most of my family predeceased my husband. I have no parents, no grandparents, no aunts or uncles (including their spouses) and one of my five cousins was shot and killed at age 6. I've experienced death from so many positions, and after losing my husband, it's a wonder that I didn't just lie down and call it quits. Instead, I acted on an intense desire to help those who have suffered personal loss.
I did a radio show on a Houston FM radio station early on about widowhood and last summer, I had the Mayor of Houston proclaim "Help a Widow Day." I was on Fox news and in The Leader newspaper encouraging everyone to help a widow without being asked.
I am now writing a blog for the Houston Chronicle called "Today's Widow." The comments I've been getting are overwhelming and confirm the need for this work. My blog is read by widowers, married people and singles along with widows, and it was hilarious to get a comment during the Super Bowl from a guy who wrote, "You are better than the Super Bowl." Isn't that the ultimate compliment from a man?
In addition to helping widows, my mission is to bring awareness regarding what happens when life ends and what we can all do to make things easier for those left behind. My approach is to use humor, where applicable, and encouragement. My blog article, "Bury me in stilettos" reiterates presenting a serious thought-provoking topic in a fun way.
I have gone on to win two national daytime Emmys since becoming widowed (I've attached a photo), so my message is one of empowerment through adversity. I advocate changing your life for the better when tragedy occurs rather than staying in bed on medication and giving up. I'm super passionate, I have tons of energy and my colorful 7-page resume includes radio DJ, TV personality, casting director and location scout/manager for film and television, motivational speaker, writer, paralegal, TV Producer and more. It's time for us to feel comfortable speaking of death and embrace it.
We spend so much time worrying about what to eat, what to wear and saving time that we forget that time will run out when we least expect it. Speaking of death should not be a taboo topic...it's all about how you approach it.
You can check out my blog by clicking the link below:
http://blogs.chron.com/todayswidow/
To reiterate and add to our conversation, I am a native Houstonian who has worked in film and television for 25 years. I became widowed four years ago and my life turned upsidedown. My soul mate died suddenly and unexpectedly at age 43 after a 21-year marriage which threw my life into a tailspin. We had no children and most of my family predeceased my husband. I have no parents, no grandparents, no aunts or uncles (including their spouses) and one of my five cousins was shot and killed at age 6. I've experienced death from so many positions, and after losing my husband, it's a wonder that I didn't just lie down and call it quits. Instead, I acted on an intense desire to help those who have suffered personal loss.
I did a radio show on a Houston FM radio station early on about widowhood and last summer, I had the Mayor of Houston proclaim "Help a Widow Day." I was on Fox news and in The Leader newspaper encouraging everyone to help a widow without being asked.
I am now writing a blog for the Houston Chronicle called "Today's Widow." The comments I've been getting are overwhelming and confirm the need for this work. My blog is read by widowers, married people and singles along with widows, and it was hilarious to get a comment during the Super Bowl from a guy who wrote, "You are better than the Super Bowl." Isn't that the ultimate compliment from a man?
In addition to helping widows, my mission is to bring awareness regarding what happens when life ends and what we can all do to make things easier for those left behind. My approach is to use humor, where applicable, and encouragement. My blog article, "Bury me in stilettos" reiterates presenting a serious thought-provoking topic in a fun way.
I have gone on to win two national daytime Emmys since becoming widowed (I've attached a photo), so my message is one of empowerment through adversity. I advocate changing your life for the better when tragedy occurs rather than staying in bed on medication and giving up. I'm super passionate, I have tons of energy and my colorful 7-page resume includes radio DJ, TV personality, casting director and location scout/manager for film and television, motivational speaker, writer, paralegal, TV Producer and more. It's time for us to feel comfortable speaking of death and embrace it.
We spend so much time worrying about what to eat, what to wear and saving time that we forget that time will run out when we least expect it. Speaking of death should not be a taboo topic...it's all about how you approach it.
You can check out my blog by clicking the link below:
http://blogs.chron.com/todayswidow/
More "Finding The Good" We all have it in us...
I have to say, Kathleen is an inspiration... Thank You for sharing!
Kathleen Wilson, Founder of MSWORLD.org, the largest patients helping patients for people who are dealing with Multiple Scleroses. I am a friend and admirer of Kathleen's. MSWORLD is all all volunteer organization and Kathleen has won many of the most important awards for her work to help others with this devastating disease. Kathleen's motto, _Wellness is a State of Mind_ says it all in her vision finding good in everything.
Here's Kathleen's story:
21 years ago Kathleen was a fine artist and creative director in advertising. She was struck by Multiple Sclerosis and found herself without the ability to walk and in extreme isolation. Instead of hiding, Kathleen utilized the emerging Internet and created the first chat group for people with MS. Realizing there was a need for connections for people suffering with MS and they were so isolated, Kathleen created MSWORLD.org. Under Kathleen's leadership, MSWORLD.org is the largest Patients Helping Patients website on the planet that helps people with MS, their friends and their families. I've included the link to MSWORLD.org. MSWORLD.org is a non-profit organization where all the staff, including Kathleen, are volunteers with MS. MSWORLD.org and Kathleen Wilson are making a huge difference for those whose lives have been radically altered because of MS. Kathleen's motto, _Wellness is a State of Mind_ says it all. That's what Kathleen Wilson brings to the tens of thousands of members of MSWORLD.org.
http://www.msworld.org/
Kathleen has been highly recognized for giving back to people with MS to make their lives and the lives of their friends and family better. She's won the major awards honoring people who have helped those who live with Multiple Sclerosis.
I am such a fan of Kathleen's and so admire how she has made such a positive difference for people of all ages suffering with Multiple Sclerosis or suffering from a friend or family member having MS.
Kathleen Wilson, Founder of MSWORLD.org, the largest patients helping patients for people who are dealing with Multiple Scleroses. I am a friend and admirer of Kathleen's. MSWORLD is all all volunteer organization and Kathleen has won many of the most important awards for her work to help others with this devastating disease. Kathleen's motto, _Wellness is a State of Mind_ says it all in her vision finding good in everything.
Here's Kathleen's story:
21 years ago Kathleen was a fine artist and creative director in advertising. She was struck by Multiple Sclerosis and found herself without the ability to walk and in extreme isolation. Instead of hiding, Kathleen utilized the emerging Internet and created the first chat group for people with MS. Realizing there was a need for connections for people suffering with MS and they were so isolated, Kathleen created MSWORLD.org. Under Kathleen's leadership, MSWORLD.org is the largest Patients Helping Patients website on the planet that helps people with MS, their friends and their families. I've included the link to MSWORLD.org. MSWORLD.org is a non-profit organization where all the staff, including Kathleen, are volunteers with MS. MSWORLD.org and Kathleen Wilson are making a huge difference for those whose lives have been radically altered because of MS. Kathleen's motto, _Wellness is a State of Mind_ says it all. That's what Kathleen Wilson brings to the tens of thousands of members of MSWORLD.org.
http://www.msworld.org/
Kathleen has been highly recognized for giving back to people with MS to make their lives and the lives of their friends and family better. She's won the major awards honoring people who have helped those who live with Multiple Sclerosis.
I am such a fan of Kathleen's and so admire how she has made such a positive difference for people of all ages suffering with Multiple Sclerosis or suffering from a friend or family member having MS.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
"Finding The Good in Life"
1. As we all know that is what my site is all about "Finding The Good". I have come across some amazing stories all different that I would like to share with you...Having it be February and in CT it's snowy,gloomy,grey...I wanted to add a little light to this month and cheer us all up with some "Good stories"..Enjoy! More to come throughout the month...
Love that you seek the goodness in life...that is what my work (and life!) is about. I have a not-for-profit natural health and healing website (Heal With Hope.com) where I share all of the philosophies, treatments & techniques that helped me to heal from a more than 10 year chronic illness. From that my line of positive intention t-shirts was born: Wear Your Intention. This line of organic cotton shirts have beautiful zen designs with inspiring and empowering messages. I continue to develop and create products that will help people to live their best life and to keep their focus on the positive. Let me know if you need any additional information!!
Positive wishes, Andrea Chervenak http://www.healwithhope.com/
http://www.wearyourintention.com/ "We're changing the world...one t-shirt at a time."
~ Wear Your Intention
2. Terry Grahl, founder and president of Enchanted Makeovers (http://www.enchantedmakeovers.org/) in Taylor, Mich., would be an ideal candidate for a story.
A homemaker and mother of four children, currently ages 10 to 16, Terry launched her nonprofit organization three years ago when she was asked to help paint at Grace Centers of Hope, a shelter in Pontiac, Mich., in 2007. An award-winning interior decorator, Terry immediately saw the potential in the dreary, dimly lit and sparsely furnished rooms. The women and children living there were searching for hope, and Terry felt God calling her to help fill that need. “Transforming the shelter took more than just my decorating skills,” she said. “It required finding and organizing enthusiastic volunteers and donors nationwide to help me carry out my vision. Six months later, the makeover was complete, and it was amazing. Even more amazing to me was that I had found my true calling. I wanted to use all of my talents and skills to provide refuge, solace and hope to people in need.”
Terry hasn't looked back. The following year she completed another makeover at Grace Centers of Hope. And just this past year, she organized more than 200 volunteers and donors for the 2009 Vision Project at Vista Maria, Michigan's largest private, non-profit residential and community-based treatment agency for at-risk, abused and neglected adolescent girls ranging in age from 13 to 18. Dozens of local volunteers painted, sewed, hung mirrors and inspirational signs, and installed new lighting fixtures and closet doors in 11 bedrooms; numerous others from across the nation and around the world (some from as far away as Singapore) created beautiful handmade gifts such as slippers, dolls, stuffed animals, journals and embroidered pillowcases. “It’s all about using beauty—down to the smallest of details—to show each girl that she’s worthy of love,” Terry said.The dorm transformation marked the final chapter in the 10½-month-long project that included a Celebration of Cooking Event in June. Enchanted Makeovers volunteers also helped the girls plant and harvest a vegetable garden over the summer.
“Enchanted Makeovers isn’t just about dorm makeovers and pretty gifts,” Terry said. “Although that’s probably the most visible of our outreach efforts, we’re also involved in numerous other events throughout the year that are designed to build strong relationships and great memories with the women and children who live in the spaces we transform.”
One example is Project Traveling Sanctuary, an outreach in which Terry has helped organize volunteers from around the world to make handmade pillowcases with inspirational cards and small gifts to send messages of faith, hope and love to women and children living in shelters. In January 2010, Terry traveled to New York City with a group of women she organized for a shelter outreach event benefiting Safe Horizon. In March, she'll be in Kansas City, Mo., working on a project for Newhouse.
As a woman who has carefully balanced the often thin family budget to enable her to be a stay-at-home mom, Terry has limited resources at her disposal. But she has a tremendous amount of courage and faith, and it is these qualities that are enabling her to make a difference in the lives of so many women and children who are struggling to find hope. She wears a mustard seed on a small necklace as a reminder of the power of faith. And truly, she is moving mountains.
3.There's good in everything and it starts with each of us.We spend so much time criticizing and complaining about bad customer service experiences. I've decided to make an effort to compliment people who give great service. Those that really try. Don't take it for granted. Not just a "thank you" but a "great job." Recognize their efforts. People just shine when you give them more than just a "thank you." They just beam when you tell them they give great service - extra mile, great smile, eye contact, voice, etc. It takes time to send notes or complete a survey but I try to do that. I've decided to focus on the those that do good rather than dwell on those that find it challenging to provide excellent service. I know that's not what you meant - finding the good to me is finding the silver lining - the positive. There's always a window open. There really is. You have to train your mind to spend 10 seconds on the bad and 50 seconds on the good of everything. lboesen@talent-innovations.com
Love that you seek the goodness in life...that is what my work (and life!) is about. I have a not-for-profit natural health and healing website (Heal With Hope.com) where I share all of the philosophies, treatments & techniques that helped me to heal from a more than 10 year chronic illness. From that my line of positive intention t-shirts was born: Wear Your Intention. This line of organic cotton shirts have beautiful zen designs with inspiring and empowering messages. I continue to develop and create products that will help people to live their best life and to keep their focus on the positive. Let me know if you need any additional information!!
Positive wishes, Andrea Chervenak http://www.healwithhope.com/
http://www.wearyourintention.com/ "We're changing the world...one t-shirt at a time."
~ Wear Your Intention
2. Terry Grahl, founder and president of Enchanted Makeovers (http://www.enchantedmakeovers.org/) in Taylor, Mich., would be an ideal candidate for a story.
A homemaker and mother of four children, currently ages 10 to 16, Terry launched her nonprofit organization three years ago when she was asked to help paint at Grace Centers of Hope, a shelter in Pontiac, Mich., in 2007. An award-winning interior decorator, Terry immediately saw the potential in the dreary, dimly lit and sparsely furnished rooms. The women and children living there were searching for hope, and Terry felt God calling her to help fill that need. “Transforming the shelter took more than just my decorating skills,” she said. “It required finding and organizing enthusiastic volunteers and donors nationwide to help me carry out my vision. Six months later, the makeover was complete, and it was amazing. Even more amazing to me was that I had found my true calling. I wanted to use all of my talents and skills to provide refuge, solace and hope to people in need.”
Terry hasn't looked back. The following year she completed another makeover at Grace Centers of Hope. And just this past year, she organized more than 200 volunteers and donors for the 2009 Vision Project at Vista Maria, Michigan's largest private, non-profit residential and community-based treatment agency for at-risk, abused and neglected adolescent girls ranging in age from 13 to 18. Dozens of local volunteers painted, sewed, hung mirrors and inspirational signs, and installed new lighting fixtures and closet doors in 11 bedrooms; numerous others from across the nation and around the world (some from as far away as Singapore) created beautiful handmade gifts such as slippers, dolls, stuffed animals, journals and embroidered pillowcases. “It’s all about using beauty—down to the smallest of details—to show each girl that she’s worthy of love,” Terry said.The dorm transformation marked the final chapter in the 10½-month-long project that included a Celebration of Cooking Event in June. Enchanted Makeovers volunteers also helped the girls plant and harvest a vegetable garden over the summer.
“Enchanted Makeovers isn’t just about dorm makeovers and pretty gifts,” Terry said. “Although that’s probably the most visible of our outreach efforts, we’re also involved in numerous other events throughout the year that are designed to build strong relationships and great memories with the women and children who live in the spaces we transform.”
One example is Project Traveling Sanctuary, an outreach in which Terry has helped organize volunteers from around the world to make handmade pillowcases with inspirational cards and small gifts to send messages of faith, hope and love to women and children living in shelters. In January 2010, Terry traveled to New York City with a group of women she organized for a shelter outreach event benefiting Safe Horizon. In March, she'll be in Kansas City, Mo., working on a project for Newhouse.
As a woman who has carefully balanced the often thin family budget to enable her to be a stay-at-home mom, Terry has limited resources at her disposal. But she has a tremendous amount of courage and faith, and it is these qualities that are enabling her to make a difference in the lives of so many women and children who are struggling to find hope. She wears a mustard seed on a small necklace as a reminder of the power of faith. And truly, she is moving mountains.
3.There's good in everything and it starts with each of us.We spend so much time criticizing and complaining about bad customer service experiences. I've decided to make an effort to compliment people who give great service. Those that really try. Don't take it for granted. Not just a "thank you" but a "great job." Recognize their efforts. People just shine when you give them more than just a "thank you." They just beam when you tell them they give great service - extra mile, great smile, eye contact, voice, etc. It takes time to send notes or complete a survey but I try to do that. I've decided to focus on the those that do good rather than dwell on those that find it challenging to provide excellent service. I know that's not what you meant - finding the good to me is finding the silver lining - the positive. There's always a window open. There really is. You have to train your mind to spend 10 seconds on the bad and 50 seconds on the good of everything. lboesen@talent-innovations.com
Monday, February 8, 2010
I love the Underdog!
As I sit and write to you, a smile streams from my face,Why? The Saints victory! I am all for the underdog and last night's game was amazing...I love Nola and visit there once a year. I am so proud of their victory last night. I have to tell you though. I have a sore throat and a start of a cold... While probably all of you were sitting inside in your comfortable family rooms. Our Friends decided to host their party outside... Craziness. It was 17 degrees last night we froze our tuckus off. I toughed it out and stayed outside the whole game... I played football ,nibbled on some amazing food that our friends brought. All in all a great time and I have to say, The Doritos and E-trade commercials were sure worth the million plus they spent on advertising them... So stinking funny. So as I start my day feeling a cold creeping into my chest, I can still smile knowing the Saints have won...Thank You, Duffy family for a great night.
Some V-day gift ideas coming later today!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Headed to NYC and need a place at stay?
I just got back from visiting NYC. I have to tell you about a hotel I stayed in that's sure to please. Located on 136W 55th street. The Blakely, a proud member of K Hotels (www.k-hotels.com) The heart of Manhattan's theatre district.. They have a small quaint lobby and restaurant/bar (Abboccatto) but with a library boutique feel that I found to be homey. I have to give big kudos to the staff/ service they were "Fabulous", very accommodating.. With your stay they offer complimentary breakfast that included: Fresh squeezed juices,pastries,coffee,tea,bagels,yogurt.. Great way to get charged before hitting the streets. They offer Internet service,Gym, 24hr Concierge,Dry Cleaning,Babysitting and so much more. The rooms are very comfortable and extremely clean... I highly recommend the Deluxe suite. Very relaxing and made for a great night sleep...
They also offer a discount for parking which is located right next door (very convenient). I will say this though, if you have an "over sized" vehicle the parking rate for the car goes us up a lot. If your stay is only an over night. Please make sure you have picked up your car before the 24 hr period is up ,because if you are a minute over ,tack on another $20... That happened to me, so I wanted to share this. All in all the hotel is a comforting place to stay. I highly recommend it for your next visit to the "Big City". Please go and visit them online, and see for yourself. You will be "Happy" you selected this for your next choice of stay.. ENJOY!... Like their logo.. "It's a great place to hang your hat"...
4 Stars
FEBRUARY
This month is filled with some amazing things. I have Hotels to tell you about,Travel Must Haves,Spas,Vday gifts and so much more..
I want to start by telling you about Bling It On. A web site that carries all the hottest trends at amazing prices.. They have Handbags,Jewelry,Wallets your one stop shop for accessories. You can even host a home accessory party with your friends and earn some great stuff for, free.. They were so kind to offer you for the month of February a 25% discount.. So check them out at BLINGITON use code "FABFIND25" at checkout to receive your discount..
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