NY MOM TO 3 BOYS

I Lost Weight, and Now WW has Lost It's Way

2023-03-14T12:21:00.001-04:00

Not an hour goes by that we don't hear about a closing. Folks, things are tough out there. The pandemic fallout and bad business decisions during the tech boom have come home to roost.

WeightWatchers has tried to repurpose a seasoned brand, and in so doing, destroyed everything that worked. No, it is not your mother's weight loss program. Mine would never recognize the #studios. The meetings went from weight-loss pointers, directed primarily at suburban housewives, to a new-age, Self. help program, which alienated many. They ran to Oprah to save it, and in so doing destroyed it. WW Magazines, meetings to share pointers and Recipes and Trinket incentives have faded way, replaced by 45 minutes of exploring feelings.

Even with the changes, I stayed. Because it worked. No tricks, not shortcuts. Sensible and sustainable.

Now, hundreds of meeting locations are shuttering, and a few will reappear in community centers. {ironically my first attempt at WW was at a long gone at-work program}. The once-sought lifetime program is obviously not valued. (I expect to be charged come 2024) Instead, they have partnered with a pharmaceutical company, which promotes WW Magazines injections.

Lost in this are the, mostly women coaches/leaders, who will lose their jobs and the peer groups who will miss the comradery of weekly visits to a friendly center.

I also learned my local RETROFITNESS CLUBS, LLC may be closing with no notice. The Writing was on the wall, broken machines and dirty bathrooms. But, telling members the day before? Why? Maybe increased rent, and overhead. Maybe they never recovered from the pandemic closing. When they reopened, the fee increased, classes all but disappeared, and repairs were neglected. Yet, they expected to draw new members?

For me, these two franchises have kept me sane during difficult times. I took the support and advice from #ww to avoid stress-eating and the treadmill, and other gym equipment to release my stress.

And guess what? I was very open about communicating my appreciation and allegiance to both. I attended my first Weight Watchers meeting in 1993 and became lifetime in 1994. I have been below goal almost eight years, attending meetings frequently and referring friends and family. It works.

I also referred plenty of people to #retro because of the family atmosphere. I thanked the part-time workers for being friendly and responsive. Kids, now out of work, who will land on their feet and find another position. But our members, who watch out for each other, and the frail, disabled and newbies, who come to the gym to enhance their lives... that's another question. #jobs #business #work #community #pharmaceutical #people #brand #writing #selfhelp

In both cases, the huge salaried CEO's have lost touch with the needs of the consumers. Too bad. #tech #sustainable #share #help #leaders #ceo

2022-09-30T12:30:00.004-04:00

Quote of the day...

"We didn't lose, we chose not to win."

This can be transferred into so many areas. Think about it. Do you make a conscious decision not to continue, but are at peace with the results?

I've been in situations where I knew I couldn't win but I didn't want to be defeated. I let time expire.... Moving ahead, perhaps I will win by taking more control of the situation. Like job seeking.

I know people want to help, but think before you give advise. Trust me, I've thought about everything you will suggest. I am on Indeed.com, LinkedIn, Monster, ,Idealist.org, Ladders and SimplyHired. I sent letters to companies posting, offering my resume, unsolicited. I network. I re-apply for jobs where they seem to have ghosted. And I have been on more interviews in this search than in my previous 20 years combined. Many have been a waste of time. Others were a Match - the one that got away.

I preemptively answer the questions many are asking about my life. Why am I looking? Why did I apply for this Position²? What are my Core Strengths? Even what are my weaknesses?

In every interview I give my all. I do the homework, dress the part- professionally, and practice my answers to the anticipated questions.

Interviewing is hard work. It is not fun. Having been on both sides of the desk, I know the interviewer is having even less fun than I am.

All is fair in love and war, but there are ways to ask questions without being The Antagonist.

I answer everything which is Appropriate, but I avoid subjects which will turn the tables on me.

Salary, for one. If the employer can't provide Salary Guides or what the range is, then it is not firm. It is a ploy to see what the candidate seeks.

And if an hour in a room with me, and five professional references, writing clips and a previous screening interview has not helped you to see who I am, a presentation/task will only provide you with free services.

If you candidly tell me you seek to use the presentation, then pay me for my time. I know I am already successful because I have a long history as a #servantleader with many Achievements on my Resumé. I also know that I have given my all in everything I do.

Now, it is time to achieve my current goal, and in so doing, help YOU, the EMPLOYERS, or RECRUITERS achieve yours. #work #jobs #linkedin #people #love #help #network #like #writing #interview #resume #recruiters #references #interviewing #jobseeking #wrestling #nonprofitleadership

I Am Numb

2022-05-25T08:48:00.000-04:00

I am numb Today.

Unable to THINK, Feel, or Respond normally. I share anger with Senator Murphy of CT. I feel OUTRAGE that we are going through this again!

I shake my head in Disbelief with millions of people who ask "how" and "why". I awoke to a sense of sadness, which pales in comparison to those felt by the victims and their families.

I feel grateful to the teachers, social workers, policeman, clergy and others who will help pick up the pieces. Most significantly, I know these are not new emotions.

I've had them 27 times since January 1st. Twenty-seven school shootings this year alone! And 198 mass shootings in total.

Victims like you and me. People going to school, work, pray, eat or drink, listen to music, or shop. Things we take for-granted until it happens in our community. We can light candles, attend vigils, and send prayers, but folks, these actions aren't working.

This is not political, it a matter of life and death. What ever our current response has been, it's wrong. We need to examine how radical Information, weapons of mass destruction and military-grade protection are available to terrorists and not law enforcement officers.

Let's study how we screen for COVID-19 and not mental illness. How we can't bring a bottle of water on a plane, but we can walk into a mall or grocery store,,armed and prepared to cause mass casualties.

Yes, I'm numb. Not because I don't care... but because I do.

Goodnight Moon- for Modern Moms

2022-05-12T15:41:00.005-04:00

In the great “October Mist” room
There was a cell phone
And an Eco-friendly balloon
And computer screen
with a login for Zoom.

And there were a trio of “Build A Bears” sitting on beanbag chairs
And two rescue kittens
And a pair of waterproof mittens
A Barbie Playhouse
And a computer mouse
A sweater, two coats and bowl full of oats
And an overworked mother who was reviewing work-notes.

Goodnight room,
Goodnight groom
Goodnight work-from home-buddies, chatting on Zoom.
Goodnight Twitter
and Facebook too, time to leave the social media zoo.

First, put away the bears,
and dust the chairs
Feed the kittens
And wash the mittens.

Good evening Ebay
and Apple Pay
Let’s see what’s on sale today
Replace the worn socks, and find some building blocks.
Help organize the house
And locate a battery for the dying mouse

Find a brush and a comb
Look, now there’s garden Gnome.

When she’s done, she’ll grab the card
and mumble, that’s not too hard!

At the end of her spree she she’ll select Prime,
and her stuff will arrive in no time.
Now the order will be sped
and the overworked lady can go to bed.
Before she turns in for the day,
there’s one more thing she has to say.

Goodnight YouTube
and TikToc too.
Goodnight SnapChat
and Goodnight to you!

Ban on Plastic Bans Poses Dilemma for Pet Parents

2022-04-21T16:01:00.005-04:00

As of today, nine states in the US have banned the use of plastic shopping bags. In these places, California, Connecticut, Delaware,Hawaii, Maine, New York, New Jersey, Oregon, and Vermont you must bring your own reusable bags. While I agree whole-hardheartedly with the
policy, it has posed an unrelated problem in our household.

What do we do with the dirty kitty litter? I am very aware of recycling and try to extend the life of all items. I repurposed paper bags to drain fried foods, and plastic to dispose of the corn-based litter we use for our two cats. When the ban became effective in New York, in March 2020, I stocked up on the packages of pet waste bags in the Dollar Tree. There were 50 in a box; with two cats I use a lot! Soon I discovered that there were more per box if I purchased the almost identical product in the baby section. The Diaper bags had 75 per carton and they smelled like baby powder! I was thrilled. Until, I couldn't find either type of bags.

Apparently, they are also scarce. After the epic failure of using sandwich bags, and the poor quality and higher cost per bag for doggies poop bags, I was determined to find an option.I turned to the internet and saw that they are hard to come by.

Then, I found my beloved Sassy Baby Disposable Diaper Sacks on Amazon. They come in various unit counts and I opted for the 200 count for just $6.57. Best of all, they arrived the very next day.

Here's the details:

Color	Lavender
Scent	Lavender
Item Dimensions (LxWxH)	11 x 6 x 3.5 inches
Brand	Sassy
Item Form	Bag
Recommended Uses For Product	Baby
Unit Count	200 Count

Click here to view

A Life is Not Important Except the Impact it Has on Other Lives

2022-04-15T14:12:00.003-04:00

Thinking about my dad today on the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's ground breaking introduction to the MLB. He, along with Pee Wee Reese (real name Harold) were my dad's favorite Dodgers.

Jackie's impact on our society occurred EIGHT years before Martin Luther King emerged as the leader of nonviolent Civil Rights Movement efforts. He refused to sit in the back of a bus in 1944, 11 years before the courageous acts of Rosa Parks. A trailblazer in athletics, and business.

Robinson also was the first black television analyst in MLB and the first black vice president of a major American corporation, Chock Full O'Nuts. In the 1960s, he helped establish the Freedom National Bank, (later Carver Federal Savings) an African-American-owned financial institution based in Harlem, New York. After his death in 1972, Robinson was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal and Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his achievements on and off the field.

Dad's love of baseball was passed down to me, and we shared love of the Mets, and Tom Seaver, Mookie Wilson and Mike Piazza. All morning, I wanted to pick up my cell and call dad to tell him about the moving ceremonies to unveil the statue. I guess he had a bird's eye view. Love you dad and despite his late in life Marlin fandom, I know today he is saying "Let's Go Mets!!!!!!!"

A Message from Beth

2022-04-14T09:41:00.004-04:00

For millions of people across the globe, today begins a weekend of reflection, reBirth and rejoicing. In what is probably the first opportunity to celebrate with loved ones since the start of the pandemic, it is also a weekend for Reunions and a time of greater hope and Promise.

Resurrection for some, liberation for others. During these dark and difficult days our world is witnessing, these celebrations take on a new meaning. These two holidays symbolize new opportunities, acknowledgement of repression and the fighting spirit to conquer all.

May all of my LinkedIn friends lean on loved ones to find peace, love and optimism. Here's to a happy Easter2022 and Chagsameach or joyous Passover2022.

Happy Holidays 💓,

Beth

Terrorism Takes On Many Forms

2022-04-13T10:53:00.003-04:00

I've sat here for almost an hour, trying to decide where to begin. What to say. This is unusual for me, but sometimes outside factors effect your outlook on life.

There was a terrorist attack on NYC yesterday. Yes, terrorist. People were terrorized by a lunatic. A monster who planned a mass attack on innocent people. Men traveling to work, a pregnant woman sitting nearby, older people, and children going to school.

The location was not midtown Manhattan. It was in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, a diverse community of approximately 78,000 residents with a median age of 35.

Ten people where shot, an 13 additional were hurt trying to escape. Yet, millions of others were victimized and the trauma will last weeks, months or maybe years. Commuters who are now scared to travel into NYC for work or pleasure.

Sadly, it's happened before. In NY, Boston, LA and countless other cities. Previously, people had no choice, but to continue to commute. But now it is different. Most professions can lend themselves to hybrid or remote jobs and retain their workforce. Unfortunately, too many chose not to.

When I heard the news, I reached out to a friend, who was recently FORCED to return to the office after two years of remote working. Rising early, returning late, undergoing constant COVID-19 Test Kits. He's tired, ornery, overworked and underappreciated. His quality of life has changed in the past month since he returned to the office.

Since he was at work, he asked me for details. Who was it, did they catch him, do they know why? I had no answers. As the day wore on, I sensed more fear, anger and frustration in his texts. Again, no answers, except me responding to text me when arrived home safely.

I'm sure his commute this morning was terrifying. And it didn't have to be. He should have been able to work from home, while the perpetrator remained on the loose; and until he felt safe going back on the train.

I've been fortunate in my career to never have to endure a commute like that. It was a choice I made, so I could remain available for family and one I still consider today.

To all who returned to subways, buses, cabs and corporate offices_ be safe my friends.

Karma Chameleon

2022-04-07T10:53:00.002-04:00

I pride myself in being a GLASS half-full person. Yet, I am pragmatic rather than emotional, both in my career and personal life. Is this an Oxymoron ?

Absolutely not. Negativity is toxic. It may fester below the surface, but when it bubbles over, it pollutes the environment.

Over the years, my approach has been challenged. I've been laid off, and accepted new positions, knowing they were dead-end. Yet, I vowed never to burn bridges, seek retribution, or show anger, resentment or bitterness. In both instances, these short-term jobs enabled me to move on with career-changing positions.

When things got particularly tough in my life, I reset my priorities; and purchased a ring inscribed with the phase "this too shall pass." It never leaves my hand.

Since I don't job-hop, my resume shows stability, and tenure. Obviously, that means there were times when optimism and sensibility were tested, but I relied on the knowledge that I was like a chameleon: I change my exterior to adapt to my surrounds, have "eyes in the back of my head" and hide my sharp tongue.

The Chameleon personality type can walk into a room, quickly pick up on the expectations of those around them and become the life of the party or a quiet, thoughtful participant — or whatever they need to be. Meanwhile, their private self remains Hidden.

So, when I saw today's Horoscope in the NyPost, I had to giggle. "The best way to deal with your negative mindset is to throw yourself into your work. The less time you spend worrying what might go wrong the more likely it is things will start going right. And remember, your outlook matters more than events."

That's because, I already know that the glass is half-full and
"this too shall pass."

Living the Dream

2022-04-06T10:41:00.003-04:00

We all have our Dreams. Those we long for when we are Awake, and those Manufactured by our Minds, while we sleep. As I child, I fantasized about being a Princess. I never really knew what Royalty did. In the The Walt Disney Company movies, they wore beautiful Clothes, a Diamond tiara, lived in sparking Fun Palaces and had a Prince Charming to take care of their needs. I even had a cat named Princess.

It would be easy, right?

Sadly, there were no princes lurking in my suburban NY high school, classes on royalty, or instructions on how to become a Monarch.

When maturity set in, I focused on the dreams created from my heart, not my subconscious. I aspired to become the female Red Smith (a NYTimes.com Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist
). I set out to become a writer, and eventually a mother.

Beginning with my senior year at Rutgers University, I was able to spend over five years working for the Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK newspaper chain. Eventually, that lifestyle of working nights and weekends didn't Synchronize with my dreams of a Family life, and I transformed myself into a Public Relations professional. A few years later, we welcomed the first of my three sons.

Over the years, I continued to set personal and professional goals. I adapted to the changes; I retooled my talents and took classes at the Foundation Center to become a grant writer, event planner, graphic designer, and added speech writing, social media, and other aspects of non-profit leadership to my tool belt. But I continued to write on the side. I was living the dream.

Eventually, I awoke. I had ascended to a leadership role in a nonprofit and loved everything I did. I no longer pined to become a Princess or having someone take care of me. I was taking care of three kids and the at-risk and undeserved constituents served by my agency.

Now, many years later, I am dreaming again. Searching for a GLASS slipper. Dreaming of a new opportunity. One where I can use my talents as a writer and my passion to help those less fortunate in a position where I can take care of myself.

And by the way, I sold another article yesterday!

Effective Customer Service is A Lost Art

2022-04-04T09:12:00.000-04:00

In the age of self-checkout registers, and automated phone banks, it seems that customer service is a lost art. While working with the Rockland County YMCA, I was fortunate to participate in "Integrity Training", an in-depth course on customer retention.

Fundraising and sales are very similar. In both, you must win over the Listener, with a compelling Pitch or Case for support. There is a lot of competition for those dollars, so your work begins when you gain the new supporter/customer.

Those first few minutes can Make A Difference between the long-time supporter, who may evolve in to a committee member, and/or board member, or returning Shopper to your Store.

Recently, I had an experience with an online/retail operation. My frustration was skyrocketing. As my kids say, "nothing is easy."

So, trying to buy a pair of high-end sunglasses, using some GIFT cards I had EARNED from surveys was not going to be easy. After looking in a Bricks and MORTAR store, I went online to the Sunglass Hut website to purchase the item.

When the form of payment was rejected, I called the customercare number and explained my dilemma. They were of no help, so I called the retail company store (26 miles away) and was assured I could use the cards in the Store. However, I was also eligible for a 12% rebate from Rakuten. I did not want to lose that additional savings!I had attempted my purchase no less than eight times, so when I called the store again (four total calls), I was told the glasses were on hold, and "come on down." He would help me.

Upon arrival, I learned he was gone for the day, and the manager on duty, could not help me purchase them online for an immediate pickup. Even if they were shipped to my home, I would lose the rebate. Nor were they able to use the forms of payment (Tremendous gift cards) I had on hand.

Cynical as I am, I went to my car and activated another gift card, and returned to the store, with a $20 coupon, and two Valid gift cards; I finally purchased the item with no out-of-pocket costs.

The on-duty manager was very nice, and I told her how I was not mad at her, but I was frustrated that I was losing a $20 rebate (and the only reason I was splurging on these sunglasses was they were costing me nothing!)

I took a chance and emailed the customer service at Rakuten, since they had always been responsive and helpful in the past. Within 15 minutes I got a reply to send the receipt; they saw my attempts. The next morning they had credited my account anyway!

I am now the proud owner of a pair of Rayban Sun Optics (I) Ltd, sunglasses, thanks to excellent CustomerService.com. As an upper #management employee, these are the stories that made me proud to be a #servantleader!

#banks #fundraising #training #experience #help #sales #customerservice #retail

You can join Rakuten with this link:
https://lnkd.in/dZMATWu6

Time is Limited, So Don't Waste It

2022-03-18T10:42:00.001-04:00

"Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life." Apple founder Steve Jobs.

How ironic, since Jobs died at 56 years old. His success was the stuff that Legends are made of. His public image was deliberately crafted to ensure the focus was on his company and not him. He changed the way we do things through his vision; and left a mark with Apple in Business, iTunes/Apple and the vast selection of MacBooks, and iPhone 12s.

Still, he had a reclusive spirit, and was secretive and eccentric. His family history revealed a man who lived a life of tangled relationships, was estranged from his birth parents and who himself fathered a love child whom he at first rejected.

He left behind a wife and their three children, whom he rarely spoke of in public. Even as he was suffering from cancer, he didn't soften his stance, especially about his birth father; he was quoted as saying, "this might sound strange, though, but I am not prepared, even if either of us was on our deathbeds, to pick up the phone to call him."

I guess you can say he lived HIS life. Work came first and he was well-paid for his efforts. Yet time ran out without mending some fences.

Jobs was a Buddhist; perhaps he had some sense of comfort in the belief that death simply leads to rebirth and that a person's spirit remains close by and seeks out a new body and new life. He may not have had a fear of dying.

I was raised to believe that every moment of life is precious and of infinite value. The most precious moments are those with loved ones, and helping others and that no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted and as a Motherless Daughter and @nymomto3boys, I do think about life, death and legacy.

Perhaps that's why I chose a life advancing Nonprofit Organizations, one where I could help others. I believe my GIFT of time, talent and my compassion are more valuable that any donation of money. I am also certain that I never want to live a life like Steve Jobs did. I'm happy with mine.

The Starfish Story- You Can Make A Difference

2022-03-14T12:21:00.000-04:00

Can you honestly say, "I made a difference to that one?"

The child who watched a parent endure substance abuse, domestic violence, and homelessness. Or was the victim of regular beatings himself. And stayed in touch, years after the child age-out of the system.

The teen who found solace in playing basketball in a youth center, or opted for a summer camp program, rather than participating in gang violence, crime, or illegal drugs.

The senior who struggled with vision loss and could no longer do the most basic independent living skills alone.

The peer of your child, who sat alone in a gymnasium because his parent could not attend his sporting event, so you went over and encouraged him, gave him water, PBJ, or a ride home. Maybe you volunteered at an animal shelter, collected money, food, and school supplies for those who couldn't afford them, or sent care packages to our deployed soldiers.

None of these actions took away from my job, children, or my time. Yet each left an indelible mark on my heart and has motivated me to continue to pursue a career in social services. Despite my frustrations, I want to make a difference, even if it to just one starfish.

I know I can't do it alone, but as Mother Teresa once said, “together we can do great things.”

Happy International Women's Day Mom and Dad!

2022-03-08T09:12:00.003-05:00

Today is International Women's Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity .

I was blessed to be raised by parents who were #woke, way before their time. My mom was an only child, so she did the typical post war activities a young girl did, but also spend a good amount of time rooting for the NY Giants Major League Baseball team with her dad. Other men took their sons to the Polo Grounds, but my Grandpa took his daughter!

My dad was a Depression-era baby. Shuffled from home to home, as his chronically ill mother ailed, and his father struggled to make ends meet. This instilled a keen sense of family, and while we were growing up, he was much more hands-on that other fathers. Being a victim of #antisemitism , had also extraordinarily strong feelings about #civilrights, and provided many opportunities for African American men to work in his business.

I grew up in the era of the Vietnam war and was encouraged to express my views. I wore a POW bracelet, wrote letters to congressman and was a news junkie. Early on, I recognized my desire to write and specifically about sports. Not the typical career goals of a woman of those times.

It was my dad who took me to college as freshman. As we drove up to the dorm to unpack, he said these very progressive words, "if you are here for your Mrs. Degree, leave now. I expect you to be able to have the tools to support yourself!"

In the two years at Emerson College, I became the first female sports director for WECB Emerson College Broadcasting and wrote for the newspaper. I hung with the sports guys and the ladies who sat on the "wall" outside of 132 Beacon.

But one of my professors had other ideas and suggested I transfer to a more competitive institution, with Division 1 sports. I applied to a NY Ivy League School and several topflight schools in NJ, and eventually got the acceptance I wanted- Rutgers University.

Again, I pioneered, working shifts on the radio station (WRSU-FM Rutgers Radio), writing for the newspaper, and eventually getting a paid gig with a local Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK newspaper. (The first female sportswriter there as well.) I also worked as an RA and made Dean's List. I was super-motivated to make my parents proud.

Upon graduation, I landed a role as a print journalist for the local newspaper (now lohud), again in sports, and again the first of my gender. Mind you, in was never aware at the time that this was an achievement, as my parents led me to believe I could do the same job as any man!

After five years, and the death of my mother, I had my first awakening to the gender divide. How could I combine my desire to be a mother with a profession that required such difficult hours? I decided to use my talents in a more family-friendly sector; so, I thought. I would use my writing skills to improve my community.

Early in my career, I saw the bias against women; lower wages and assumptions which were wrong. I even left a job when my newborn child was sick, and the "family-friendly" agency expected me to leave him home and come to work.

But I heard the message of my dad loud and clear; make sure you could support yourself. I developed a voice, not always confident, which said, "I will give you 120%, but if my kid gets sick, I am out of here and the rules don't change!" I went on to have three fabulous boys and replace the need to be home when they were sick with the need to rearrange hours for baseball, football, and of course, Wrestling.

I also became the more consistent provider for my family and while my kids are now grown, one in college and two at beginnings of their own careers, I am still juggling the needs of family and finance and have once again had to defend my needs vs. money-saving attempts by employers.

When I ascended to a leadership role, I allowed my staff to be with children for illness, sports, and school conferences, as well as tending to the needs of elderly parents or chronically ill spouses.

Today, I thank my parents for being the real visionaries. They raised their children to be blind to precepts that the rest of society were not. I proudly did the same with my children. So, Happy International Women's Day 2022 to the ladies who have achieved in areas of academics, Vocation, Athletics, and Family; and congratulations to the fellow women and men who have encouraged and supported them.

Today's Horoscope?

2022-03-07T09:40:00.001-05:00

I'm not really sure why, but I begin my morning routine, by checking my horoscope and then I quickly forget what it says. I know they are one-size-fits-all and purely for entertainment purposes, but I do. I also read the folded papers in my fortune cookies.

There have been times where the daily message will match the occurrences of the day. Coincidence obviously.

I am an Aquarian. "Aquarius is the sign different from the rest of the zodiac and people born with their Sun in it feel special. This makes them eccentric and energetic in their fight for freedom, or at times shy and quiet, afraid to express their true personality. In both cases they are deep thinkers and highly intellectual people who love to fight for idealistic causes. They are able to see people without prejudice and this makes them truly special. Although they can easily adapt to the energy that surrounds them, Aquarius representatives have a deep need to have some time alone and away from everything in order to restore power."

As a non-profit executive, this makes sense. Many historical and pop culture celebrities have also been born under the sign: Jackie Robinson, Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, and Ronald Reagan. Also Carole King, Neil Diamond, and Oprah Winfrey. However, so are my son and sister and while there are similarities between us, there are more differences.

So what is in store today? According to Yahoo, "you've slowed down, but you're still ready for some serious learning. Your big brain is always hungry for new information, and you should find that things start to get interesting soon."

The Newyork Post says: "You appear to be in one of your all-or-nothing moods at the moment and while it’s unlikely to do any harm today it could create problems for you later in the week. Try to be a bit more flexible. Bend a little so no one can break you."

The New York Daily News advises:

"be creative to stay ahead of competitors - or even an ambitious co-worker. No one has more new and inspiring ideas than you, Aquarius, so use your innate skill now, when it's needed the most. If you're #strategic and approach the right people, it will present you as an expert in your field. You have an abundance of experience to draw from. So much so that you probably have forgotten more than most people have learned."

So, as this week begins, I will continue to learn, make adjustments, and remain creative. I'll secretly make a wish that the #decision-makers will notice these attributes and make my Dreams (and previous horoscopes) come true!

And go Rutgers University. Proud of my #ScarletKnights

Hire a Human, Not a Robot

2022-03-04T12:34:00.002-05:00

I saw this picture on Facebook last night. Redcrab opened a new restaurant in our local mall.

The reviews were great, and I love fresh Seafood, so eventually I will pay the spot a visit. But I was saddened by this picture.

Evidently, the Franchise promotes fresh and customized seafood; we all agree it is very courageous for any business person to invest their life-savings to open a new #venture during these unsettling times. On the positive note, new businesses bring new jobs. They promote local #tourism and move the economy in a positive way.

So, why am I sad? Look closely and you will see that the restaurant is using a mechanical waiter to deliver food to the #customers. It’s a GIMMICK, but that's also one less job available to an out-of-work person. We've already replaced too many #entryleveljobs with #cashless check-out, #self-service lines, Amazon, eBay and automated receptionists.

Some will respond that no one wants to work; one of the first questions I hear in my job search is "are you willing to come to an office?" However, this trend existed before COVID-19 and now the public and economy are suffering. Longer lines at stores, post offices, Banks, and fast-food chains.

The restaurant industry has been one of the hardest hit during the pandemic. Costs for food and gas have made it difficult for #smallbusinessowner to turn a #profit. Some tried to salvage their declining indoor dining, by using delivery services such as Grubhub and DoorDash. Others have amped up their #specialevents. Boozy Brunches, #trivia nights, Karaoke, and music provided by cover bands or DJs are no longer reserved for Saturday evenings at the bar.

This should necessitate the need for cooks, greeters, bartenders, bus and waitstaff. My college-aged son has worked in the restaurant INDUSTRY since he was a junior in high school.

During the pandemic, he worked long hours at a local family-owned establishment. He answered phones, mopped floors, bused tables, delivered outbound orders, helped with food prep, and eventually became a waiter. After the previous manager quit, he took on that role until he went back to school in August.

When he learned that his boss was contemplating closing for three days to host a family wedding, because of lack of staff, he came home from college and worked three 12-hour days, to keep things afloat for the owners. He answered phones, waited tables, and went to the bank to deposit the day's proceeds.

A robot can't do that.

Talk to My Assistant

2022-02-27T10:51:00.003-05:00

Good Morning! I hired a new assistant recently.

He seems very intent on #learning his job. Honestly, he had very little #experience , but as a #wrestling mom, I valued the #selfdetermination he learned from the sport.

We had a long discussion about online activities and my erratic hours. I did a background check, and he has a clean social media history; no Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Since we would be working rather closely, I did not want to find I was a victim of a Catfish scheme.

I've known him four years; he is very close with his younger brother, but when I'm not around he tends to keep to himself. I support his attempts to drop a few pounds (WW works for me) and warned him to stay off eBay, Instacart or Amazon on company time. I think he prefers Chewy, PetSmart and Petco honestly.

He has great references, and shows dedication to his family, and a propensity to curl up in a corner when he is done working. Doesn't seem the type to troll the Match, Tinder or other dating sites. He says I'm the only woman for him.

Let's wish Shadow GOOD LUCK on his first day as my official #officemanager. I hope I can find a position as purrfect as his! Happy #Sunday!

Great Expectations?

2022-02-24T10:19:00.001-05:00

Is there a time in one’s life where we have to concede that our expectations do not Match reality? Are the rules and morals that were instilled in us by the survivors of the “Great Generation” no longer applicable? Were the stereotypes we grew up with just Fiction and are we wrong for having passed on some of these unachievable expectancies to our children and their peers?

As Business & Tech owners, bosses, and supervisors, do we expect too much of a Workforce Group which has had to adapt or face extinction more than once. Do we still expect men to assume the Power-broker roles in the workforce, while women juggle HOME, Family, and Careers? How much progress has been made since the last of the Baby Boomers entered the work force? Have our expectations of being equal been achieved?

The 1980ies gave us acid-washed jeans, leg warmers and Devo, but we also saw the emergence of McDonald's Chicken Nuggets, Nintendo Gameboys and the Microsoft Windows Personal Computer; and a new POP-culture TV mom. "Family Ties" and "The Cosby Show,” portrayed women who had post-undergraduate degrees and were juggling their careers as they raised their children.

Both TV shows made it clear that a woman needed an identity outside of her family and the ability to bring in an income in order to thrive in the modern world. Evidently, that was an influence, as over two-thirds of all women work outside the home. Less than 30% of today’s women identify as stay-at-home moms.

Back in 1984 "the Atlantic” found that only 37 percent of all women between the ages of 20-64, and 41 percent of all women between the ages of 25-44 held full-time year-round jobs; this included the teaching, where women far out-numbered men. Yet only 29 percent of married women held full-time year-round jobs. That same year married women contributed an average of only 18.6 percent of the total incomes of their families.

Women now hold 50.04 percent of all USAJOBS; experts believe this upward trend will continue and will accelerate, while the number of men in the workforce will continue to decline. However, only 27.1% of women are Managers and LEADERS; over 60 percent of women believe Motherhood disrupts their advancement opportunities and forced them to conform to stereotypical jobs such as NURSING.com, Teaching, and Marketing/Public Relations/Fundraising professionals.

Despite an increased need for IT, Cybersecurity and Infosys Data and Analytics, these fields are still male dominated. Over the past two decades the number of women software engineers has increased just two percent, an unsettling statistic if you consider, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected demand for software development engineers to rise by 22%, over the next decade.

It has been reported that number of job openings in the United States rose to 10.925 million in December 2021 from an upwardly revised 10.775 million in the previous month and above market expectations of 10.3 million. The level of openings remained near record highs, as employers and recruiters were still having a difficult time filling position. Their expectations don't match the Proven Reality of the workforce's needs.

Are we failing our young women? If, in 2022, women (and men for that matter) are still struggling to balance family life with careers, becoming exhausted, or making choices to preserve a job, then the answer is yes!

#publicrelations #readyforwork #readyforthefuture #recruitment #hradvice #seekingnewopportunities #seekingemployment #notadinosaur #servantleadership #writer #rutgersuniversity

Happy Anniversary to Me!

2022-02-21T11:48:00.002-05:00

The word "anniversary" conjures up a variety of emotions for me. An anniversary is the date on which an event took place, or an institution was founded in a previous year. The term may also refer to the commemoration or celebration of a milestone event.

In actuality, remembrances can be happy, notably a wedding anniversary, and or sad, like the date of a loved one’s passing. Some are significant, such as tenure at a job, or adoption of a child, and others are difficult to face; dates such as Pearl Harbor Day (December 7, 1941), November 22, 1963, and sadly September 11, 2001.

Then there are the private milestones, shared with a significant other, or few close associates: honoring first dates, sports accomplishments and “gotcha” days. Those in 12-Step programs mark sobriety, either publicly or privately. Facebook even sends an annual reminder of the date you joined or accepted a friend request.

Six years ago yesterday, I walked into Weight Watchers, now WW, with achy knees, 14 pounds over “lifetime goal” of 130. Three months late, I made lifetime and kept going. Eventually I settled in at 117 pounds. From that date in May 2016, I have never exceeded my original goal weight. Surgery saw me go down to 114, and unemployment has seen my weight increase past my comfort level, but well below goal, because I refuse to let that happen!

Despite the ups and downs, I continue working out, tracking, and scanning. I make my tried-and-true recipes, try new foods and I go to meetings.

I am using the tools I've learned from leaders (now called coaches) and peers, to get back where I need to be. At 61, I feel proud that I weigh less than at 31. I made lifetime initially in the Spring of 1993. Since then there have been fluctuations, where I gained and lost, due to children, illnesses, and surgery.

Over the last three decades, I dealt with death, job loss, COVID-19 quarantine, and life’s other stresses. On February 20, 2016, I stepped into my local studio, and started my weight-loss journey for the last time. I re-achieved lifetime May 28, 2016, coming in one pound under my goal weight, and haven’t looked back!

Use this link to join now and get a free month of membership.

I Killed a Keurig Today

2022-02-19T19:02:00.005-05:00

I destroyed my coffee maker today. Not intentionally. It had been on the blink for a while. Spitting coffee, adding grounds to the brew, and overall acting weird. It was well-maintained and used constantly for coffee, tea and cocoa. The poor tea kettle sits, unused, inches away.

It was four years old, and my last attempt to get a quality cup of coffee consisted of doing a de-scale, and then trying to clean the pod holder by rinsing it with spray bottle. When that was not enough, I tried a gentle steam of water. . Sadly that was not smart move, as excess water escaped the area and seeped into the LED panel. Shot, gone, bye-bye.

I had the Cuisinart SS-10P1 Premium Single-Serve Coffeemaker Coffeemaker, with a 72 ounce capacity, in silver. Purchased originally in 2018 at Bed, Bath an Beyond. It was my second K-cup maker. The first died on it's own and the store gladly exchanged it. The return policy is no longer as kind, so I grabbed my old drip pot, and headed out to get ground coffee.

Then, I went online. hoping to pick it up this afternoon, and found, like everything else, the supply is limited for this machine. So off to Amazon.com where I ordered it, with hopes to be using my new machine by mid-week; down the road when this one starts spitting, I'll call customer service for cleaning tips.

Click here to order today: https://amzn.to/3sQvWud

The Conflict Between Work and Family

2022-02-19T11:13:00.001-05:00

It used to be that weekends were for family activities, self-care and recharging one's batteries. After talking to several employed friends of mine, this is no longer the case.

When you work from home, is the office ever closed? How many of us have checked our work emails late into the night, or over a weekend? Better yet, how many non-profit executives had board members who expected responses, on a Saturday night? Or project managers who needed to catch up on tasks before a presentation. How many medical care workers, socialworkers or accountants have returned calls, updated charts or finished a return after hours?

Come on, raise your hands. Before the pandemic, this was a semi-regular occurrence in my career. Nine times out of ten, I dropped what I was doing to respond. Even if the response was "I will get back to you on Monday." Time away, spent feeding babies, watching television, attending my son's wrestling matches, dinner dates and even sick leaves were interrupted. The scars from my earliest days as a #workingmother have never fully healed.

After speaking with one friend, who often works late into the evening, the expectations have risen but the salary increases have not kept pace with the increasing workload. He confessed, as he politely declined my invitation to grab a cup of coffee, "I am swamped, and I need to keep my job."

Admittedly, the lines have been blurred for me for decades; I've made choices of work over family, and cancelled vacations, thinking it would have influence. It did not and now, as my search for employment intensifies, there are still no boundaries.

On a daily basis, I scan the Indeed.com, LinkedIn, and Monster Hiring job boards, respond to All-Star Recruiters and #humanresources personnel. To avoid overload, I maintain email addresses with Yahoo, #prodigy (now AT&T, don't judge) and Google #gmail. I post on my Blogger page daily and cross post to Meta, Twitter, and WW, when content is relevant.

There are a few moments that I will stray, to window-shop on Amazon, or eBay, return personal emails, and solve the WORDLE LIMITED and NERDLE LTD puzzles each day. While I do, I listen to SiriusXM, or ask one of my #alexa devices to play a special song, catch up on sports news with WFAN Radio. I do know that since I'm home, I drink more coffee, have gained five pounds and my gym attendance is a bit spotty, but after I hit post for this piece, I will grab my Fitbit (now part of Google) and my Beats and head to the #gym, because it is Saturday.

Serve Up a Plate of Hearts of Palm Pasta

2022-02-18T16:45:00.000-05:00

My first venture into a Weight Watcher’s meeting, now WW, was in 1992. After seeing a picture from a family wedding, I knew I had to do something. At the time, meetings could be arranged at a job site, with more than 12 participants. We were game, and it worked! I lost approximately 28 pounds and made lifetime; then I got pregnant; six weeks after the delivery, I had 7.5 to lose, and so became my personal struggle to maintain my weight.

Sold separately at Trader Joe's or in a two-pack on Amazon

Thankfully, the plan was always there, and each time I achieved lifetime, stopped attending meetings and regained a few pounds. Until six years ago this Sunday. After seeing a co-worker using her cell phone to work the plan, I returned to the local center, needing to lose 14 pounds to get back to goal and three months later I did; and kept going. Yes, I attended a weekly meeting religiously until the pandemic hit and meetings were canceled. I also took advantage of a wellness benefit at work to get a free gym subscription.

Eventually, I lost 27 pounds, and felt comfortable at 13 pounds below goal. Six years later, I still attend meetings, all be it, not weekly anymore due attendance limits established due to Covid-19, and use the app to scan and track everything I eat and drink. I make recipes to support my weight loss (and health) and walk, work out and research new foods that can help me stay motivated.

One recent find was the Trader Joe’s Hearts of Palm Pasta. At just $2.99 per 9-ounce box, the thin white strands are zero points on the plan. For the layman, it’s 20 calories per serving (three per box). It’s gluten-free, Kosher and vegan. According to the Fearless Flyer “Trader Joe’s Hearts of Palm Pasta! Tender, mild-tasting, hearts of palm come from the center of palm trees. Nothing is added to this mild- flavored Pasta, which means it’s ideal for heating and tossing with a variety of different sauces.”

The result is a tasty, satisfying plate of pasta that you can enjoy guilt-free.

For those who do not have a Trader Joe’s nearby, you can purchase a two-pack on https://amzn.to/3BuCxOU; I have also tried the Natural Heaven Hearts of Palm, after seeing a box at my local TJ-Maxx. Amazon shoppers can find them here https://amzn.to/35aJAjt as well.

Cyber Security Is Needed More Than Ever

2022-02-17T10:49:00.001-05:00

We must do better. Technology has been a boon to our society, but it has enabled predators, criminals, and thieves to commit offenses from the comfort of their Homes.

I was a victim of a technological theft yesterday- and so were my kids. I'm day two into the clean-up, with a College student stranded two hours away, without access to his debit card. I spent over five hours yesterday, including over two in the branch. Ultimately, I had to close or freeze nine accounts and transfer the funds to newly established accounts.

Each of my sons and I share a checking and savings account. They have been responsible to manage the accounts on their own. I am on them to ensure they are not stranded without money. Except today.

It started out innocently; and seemed to be legitimate. I got a text from "my bank" saying someone had tried to charge almost eight hundred dollars and did I want to authorize this transaction. I texted my son to see if he had tried to buy his tires yet. With a resounding NO, I pushed the button to say no and immediately got a call from "my bank."

Somehow, they knew more information than a hacker should know, and I continued on the call, to freeze my Mastercard debit card. How did they know my bank, and cell phone number is still a mystery?

Eventually, they put me on hold, and I got suspicious. No, I never gave my social security number and checked the line from which they were calling. We disconnected and I called back. The woman was different and tried to help, then transferred me to a third person. I hung up, called my branch, and found out it was fraud, necessitating in the closure of all accounts in my banking profile and the eventual res-establishment of all on-line payments. That will take hours as well.

Thankfully, no money was stolen and now there is no access to the accounts. But, for two days, I have had to focus on this, rather than my job search and here's the kicker. Although I am a co-owner on my youngest son's accounts, I can't close his accounts without his approval. To protect the security of the account that I am trying to protect by closing. I get it, but now he must find run from classes to the bursar to fax back the form. A real nuisance since he is in class all day.

The message here is not one of anger, it's frustration that a small yet sophisticated group of criminals has used a level of intelligence owned by few to figure out how to clone phone numbers, credit cards (yes that has happened to all of us), install skimmers on gas pumps, and create complex schemes on innocent victims. Imagine if they used this knowledge to cure cancer? Or get a job in CyberSecurity to develop SafeGuards Training which deter hacking?

So as an old TV show once said, "hey, let's be careful out there!"

Here's a book we can all use! https://www.amazon.com/Cybersecurity-for-Dummies/dp/B081ZHVF3G?crid=1LRYP12FE7BLF&keywords=cyber+security&qid=1645112534&sprefix=cyber+se%2Caps%2C93&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=nymomto3boys-20&linkId=f08638928a9f7be63ef5cfd383b676f6&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

It's My 28th Anniversary As A Working Mother

2022-02-16T09:31:00.003-05:00

It was 28 years ago today that I became a mother for the first time; a working mother.

Still early in my career, the confidence that I had as a single young professional was gone. My maternity leave was peppered with demands from the job; and I willingly responded, thinking that it was the only way to ensure job security. I was already prepared, having added a home office the day I became pregnant.

That strategy didn’t work. A few months after returning to the “so-called” family-centered nonprofit and six weeks after receiving a raise in recognition of the work I did during my leave, we parted ways. It was not of my choice, but it was a relief. I could stay home with my infant son, and return to work on my terms, which I did a few days after he turned 18 months. At that point he was eligible for the best day care in town, and I was itching to go back to work.

Initially, this job was posted as full-time, but when funding shrunk, I proposed a flexible part-time role and bravely told my boss, “I will give you 120%, but if my child gets sick, I’m out of here and the rules don’t change once I start.” Where did that strength come from? I honestly don’t know, but for 10 years and two additional pregnancies, I was able to combine motherhood with work.

There were always choices, and sadly, I often chose work over family. I was unable to exorcise the demons inside, caused by the previous boss. Even when I became pregnant with my second child, a mere three months after starting the job; and when a disgruntled co-worker alerted management before I did, I expected to be shown the door. But my boss said, “I am not your former boss, and we are happy for you!” One day short of a year on the job, I welcomed son number two.

With his arrival I took a six-week maternity leave and then returned to work; two babies at two different childcare centers. Despite what they said, I was still afraid of losing my job. Then, the adventure began. Number two suffered chronic ear infections, resulting in multiple surgeries, visits to specialists and then educational evaluations. I was allowed to switch days off, work from home, and address my family’s needs. As well as mine: a broken foot, two knee operations, Lyme disease and several unplanned visits to the emergency room followed. Yet, my job was always safe.

When things settled down, number three arrived on the scene, and I worked throughout my leave. Even bringing him into the office at times. Three children; attending two different schools, and a babysitter. During those 10 years, I added responsibility and became a supervisor; I hired other working mothers and shared my harrowing stories.

Later I became the Executive Director of a nonprofit; I hired and supervised people of all ages and life stages. I supported staff through sick spouses, dying parents and juggling parenthood with work. There were times where I had to say, “you will never get these days back, the work can wait.” I wanted to spare my staff the anxiety of choosing family over work.

Yes, times have changed since that February evening 28 years ago when I added “working mom” to my resume. With virtual offices, and hybrid roles, mothers and fathers can confidently raise their families without looking over their shoulders.

I have many wishes for my son today. The typical health, happiness, and prosperity; I also wish that, if and when they decide to become parents, my sons and their partners do not have to make the same choices I did; as I have told my staff- you will never get those days back and sometimes, work can wait!

Happy Valentine's Day

2022-02-14T08:47:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I can freely say that here, because there are all kinds of love. Love of a spouse, parent, child, close friend, pet or life. A person who wants to share happiness and not negative energy. And you can express love in many ways!

In the workplace, it may mean bringing in bagels, donuts or a healthy lunch for your staff. At home, it may mean buying candy, flowers or a card for a special person, or calling a friend to say "I love you."

But, saying Happy Valentine's Day to a total stranger may be the most impactful. Maybe it's an older woman, who recently lost her soulmate, or an older man, struggling to remember what day it is. It could be a parent whose child died tragically, a young child, bullied at school, the only one who didn't receive a Valentine.

Perhaps it is a recently displaced worker, who has to choose between Hallmark Cards or a dozen eggs and gallon of milk for the kids. Or a LGBTQ adolescent who has not told their parent(s) about their internal struggles.

Corinthians 13:4 reminds us that "love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."

So, as you begin your Monday morning, be kind and patient, because there is someone out there who wants to forget today is Valentine's Day. Remind them that they are loved!