Positively rambling . . .

Trader Joe's Suds Not Sudsy

2011-04-29T11:57:00.000-07:00

This is a product review of Trader Joe's Next to Godliness Tea Tree Lavender Liquid Dish Soap. It smells wonderful because of the essential oils, I presume: lavender oil and tea tree oil. All natural product with coconut derived surfactants, earth salt and grapefruit seed extract, cruelty free, not tested on animals and contains no animal by-products. These are all attributes I look for at the grocery store.

My only disappointment with this dish soap is that it produces very low suds, despite the orange and green stamp on the label that states "LOTS OF FOAM". You can see the label in the photo. I think not. This Trader Joe's liquid dish soap has decidedly very little foam. I don't understand why they would specifically say lots of foam, when it is markedly less sudsy than any other liquid dish soap I've ever tried (I like to try new cleaning products).

I suppose it doesn't really matter, but it bothers me just a little. I'm a big fan of everything else I've ever bought at Trader Joe's.

Go With Me

2011-03-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Reader - I've moved my Positively Rambling blog to a new platform here: Positively Rambling. Or you can find me writing about packaging and related subjects at my new company site The Liberty Packaging Blog. I hope you'll subscribe to one or the other and feel free to comment there.

I look forward to our next meeting. Meanwhile, I hope this beautiful beach scene leaves you feeling serene....

Eleven Social Media Rules

2011-02-23T03:45:00.000-08:00

I'm not a social media expert, but I play one on TV. That's not even a little bit true, but as a frequent user of social media, I offer these helpful and easy to use Facebook and Twitter rules. You'll find other more comprehensive lists; these are my basic guidelines:

Social media, especially Twitter, is for interacting with people - not just for selling your new book, SEO service or webinar - a good ratio is 10 to 1 - ten Tweets should be you having conversation and sharing other people's great info. The 11th is your blog or seminar or jewelry sale. Some would say 12 to 1 is even better.
Don't post every little detail of your day - share a funny story, a great song, an interesting photo, or a topical new article. Talk to us. Have a conversation.
Your profile photo or avatar represents you - choose it wisely.
Google yourself to see what's out there on the web about you - it may help to know how the world sees you.
Be nice - debate is welcome, nastiness and name calling just beget more of the same.
It's okay to share problems or challenges - I can't tell you how many wonderful people are out there who have helped or supported me with kind words, connections, and even graphic design assistance.
You don't have to follow or friend everyone who reaches out to you.
Say thank you to those who comment or share your thoughts and ideas with their connections.
My Facebook friends are just that - family, friends and a few special connections from Twitter whom I now consider friends - think about whether it's wise or helpful for your business and personal connections to mingle on FB.
There may be those who want the intimate details of your love life - I'm not one of them. Or maybe I am, but I recommend you make it a private message and not a wall post or Tweet for all to read.
Facebook privacy rules continue to evolve - we'd all do well to pay attention and adjust our privacy settings as needed.

Insult to Injury - I Got the Boot

2011-02-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

I feel a bit stupid. Crouched on the sofa cross-legged, typing away, talking on the phone, checking weather on the TV and my foot falls asleep. It happens. The surprise came when I stepped away from the sofa and my sleeping extremity, unaware that the floor was fast approaching, bent the wrong way and I heard a loud snap. It didn't hurt, since my foot was still dead asleep. In fact, it seemed so bizarre I was laughing about it.

The foot swelled up right away, but not horribly, so I applied ice, took a couple ibuprofen and strapped the foot up with an ankle brace, then limped around the house doing what I normally do, just a little slower to the task. I've never broken a bone before, and I'm thinking nothing is broken now.

Day two now - it doesn't feel worse, but not better either. Patience.....

It's now day 11 and my foot is still bruised and sore. I haven't been to the gym at all; just walking is uncomfortable. Maybe I'll call my doctor Monday. I've never been much of an athlete - badminton elbow is my only sports injury to date - anyway, walking away from the sofa is not considered a sport, I fear. My point is, I don't really know how these injuries are supposed to go. Will I regret not having had an x-ray on the injured foot right away?

Day 12 - visit to PCP and x-ray. Unfortunately due to a miscommunication (I've no doubt it was my fault), the x-ray taken was of the ankle and not the foot. Once you're in the hospital radiology lab with an order that says "x-ray ankle" there's nothing to be done for it but to x-ray the ankle. Will wait to hear from the doctor's office after they get back from lunch, then probably back for more x-rays.

Yes, more x-rays it is - now done and awaiting results in a day or two. I've waited this long, so no big deal.

Day 14 - couldn't stand the inactivity any longer, so I went to the gym, used the weight machines, then hopped on the stationary bike for a bit. It was fine, and actually quite a relief to do something besides sit. The foot hurts a bit more now than it did earlier today, but I can live with it.

Day 16 - I have a non-displaced avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal in the left foot. Good to know what the problem is, and it's a small problem.

Wrapped the foot up and went to the gym on Saturday - it felt good to do something besides hobble around the house, and the stationary bike doesn't seem to stress the foot at all.

Day 19 - Kundalini yoga tonight worked out fine - had to modify a few positions to get comfortable, but I'm glad I went. The orthopedic doctor will see me tomorrow. I imagine I'll end up with one of those unattractive stabilization boots and instructions on whether going to the gym is actually a good idea.

It's Day 20 and orthopedic surgeon assures me it's a very common injury, people have lived for centuries with this type of fracture and they always heal. Fair enough. After I expressed consternation about too much time sitting around, he assured me that I could freely ride the exercise bike and use weights and whatever else I could do that didn't hurt. In his likable and mildly sardonic manner, the good doctor offered to let me try "the boot" to see if it felt comfortable - he said it would be my choice to use it or not. I was fully prepared not to like it, but the Aircast offers cushioning and stability, so my one-sided hobble is greatly reduced, as is the pain when I walk or navigate stairs.

It's not pretty, but I like my new boot and the freedom and solid comfort it provides. Back for a follow-up visit and x-rays in four weeks. I expect smooth sailing from here...

Four Business Books to Inspire You

2011-02-16T03:21:00.000-08:00


Beautiful Boston

These are four books to which I continue to refer for guidance and inspiration in my business:

"Get Content - Get Customers"* by Joe Pulizzi and Newt Barrett - what this book does well is explain why a strategic content marketing program is important and show how to accomplish compelling content. Connecting with customers by providing useful information goes a long way toward gaining their trust. Examples and instruction included.

"Linchpin - Are You Indispensable?"* by Seth Godin - I find this book so compelling that I presented copies to colleagues at a meeting last summer. Godin posits that many of our habits and even mandates in school, work, and life are habits because it's assumed they are the only way of getting work done. In fact, the evidence shows quite the opposite. I've read it through a couple of times and refer back often.

"Business Stripped Bare: Adventures of a Global Entrepreneur"* by Sir Richard Branson - the man has great ideas for providing products and services people will clamor for and isn't afraid to bare it all for publicity. Really. It's a fun read and made me feel that perhaps I could afford to take a few more risks in life.

"Trust Agents"* by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith - this is one I'm still reading. I've followed Chris Brogan for a while, read his blogs and newletters daily, and have recently begun paying attention to Julien as well. "Trust Agents" provides ways to use the web to grow your sphere of influence and trust. Chris and Julien provide thoughtful guidance on how to handle customer service issues, what to put on your business card, why the word "friend" can now be used as a verb and so much more.

I find these authors and their books particularly engaging because they account for human elements within their business strategy. A "strictly business" business book is of no use to me - these writers share with the reader a real sensibility as to how people are motivated, which can be adapted to fit your industry, business or even your personal life.

*Amazon Affiliate Link

Photo by FreeFoto.com

Packaging on Twitter

2011-02-08T03:32:00.000-08:00

If you have a specialty in occupation or avocation, you want to find others who care about it and have conversations with them - share what you know. Through them, you meet new people to talk with or listen to. It doesn't matter whether your forte is establishing a food empire one cookie at a time @jbchang, teaching young women how to enhance their self-esteem @KathleenHassan, taking beautiful photographs to tell the story of how women age @BeautyofWisdom, writing and performing richly layered and memorable music @TheVanBurens, or whatever you love. Your goal is to do your work, your art, and find your audience - the people who will provide that give and take.

When I began my first Twitter account in October of 2009, I never expected to find so many smart people who are interested in packaging, but they're teaching me, sharing information, and supporting me daily. Here are some of the many insightful packaging experts and organizations who share my philosophy of give and take on Twitter:

@PackagingDiva JoAnn Hines: Answers, Advice, Results from GO TO person in packaging. I speak, blog, educate, on all things packaging and support those who support me.

@packagingdigest For nearly 50 years, Packaging Digest has been the packaging industry’s best known, most trusted and most widely distributed information resource.

@cnvcurmudgeon Mark Spaulding: Bloggist for The Converting Curmudgeon; associate publisher; chief editor of Converting Quarterly; web-processing industry bon vivant.

@packageSPEAK Package SPEAK is THE place for consumers like you to share your likes, dislikes, frustrations; ideas about packaging. Take notice, share; impact an industry.

@PackagingKid Lex Cisler: Packaging and Corrugated expert here to keep you updated on market trends, solve as many warehouse problems as I can and bring an edge to the packaging industry

@PMMIorg Trade association serving packaging and processing machinery manufacturers. Your official location for#PACKEXPO info.

@packfutur Thoughts on the future of packaging by Leading Futurists LLC principals Jennifer Jarratt @jenjarratt and John Mahaffie @jbmahaffie

@Pack_TV Simon Twilley: Love Packaging, love TV, so launched a WebTV Channel about packaging!

@thedieline The World's #1 Package Design Website

If you'd like to connect with more packaging experts on Twitter, follow my Twitter Packaging list, which continues to grow as I find more smart people in the packaging business. Follow and DM me @laineyd7 if you'd like to be added.

Suitably Bespoke

2011-02-03T15:15:00.000-08:00

Bespoke is my new favorite word. It's popping up in online and print ads, marketing copy, blogs, in Oprah's magazine and on those cable home improvement shows featuring custom kitchen cabinets and high-end jacuzzi tubs.

Not a word I drop into daily conversation, yet it's lyrical and lovely: bespoke. Just saying the word makes me feel rich and well dressed.

"Custom made" or "specially designed" are synonyms listed in Wiktionary. The meaning behind the word bespoke has changed recently, as evidenced by the battle Savile Row of London tailors fought in 2008 to preserve the original definition, which implied something crafted entirely by hand, without any mechanization or patterns. According to Savile Row, "The word was coined by tailors on Savile Row, London, in the 17th century and referred to a suit which was hand-crafted from a single bolt of cloth without the use of a pre-existing pattern."

These days, bespoke items are more often manufactured using modern tools, not completely by hand or without patterns. The true bespoke product has evolved into "bespoke light". I suppose that's progress.....

Good Day Sunshine Songs - My Top Four

2011-02-01T03:45:00.000-08:00


Flower and Sun by Idea Go on Freedigitalphotos.net

In New England we're in the thick of winter cold, sunless days, freezing nights, icy sidewalks, snow-covered windshields and canceled events. To counteract all that I give you my top four songs about sunshine. They make me happy - maybe you'll find they help keep you warm and smiling, too, wherever you are.

"Let the Sunshine In" from the musical "Hair"- my favorite version is from the original cast recording and includes "Aquarius" and "The Flesh Failures (Let the Sunshine In)" from 1969. Starts with a single voice and builds to a chill-inducing chorus. My second favorite of version of this song can be found at the end of the movie "40-Year-Old Virgin" starring Steve Carell.

"Good Day Sunshine" - The Beatles, from "Revolver"*

"Here Comes the Sun" - The Beatles, from "Abbey Road"*

"The Warmth of the Sun" - Beach Boys, from "The Warmth of the Sun"*

For more song ideas, see Coolrain44's list of top 100 mainstream "Songs About Sun and Sunshine"

The days are getting longer....

*Affiliate link

Four Books I've Loved

2011-01-27T12:00:00.000-08:00

The following are four books I’ve enjoyed so much that they've remained on my list of favorite books for ten years or longer. I belong to a couple of different book groups and when the opportunity arises, I recommend that my fellow readers read and enjoy these if they have not yet done so. I urge you to do the same:

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy - it's romantic and dreary, sad and intriguing. A married woman, Anna is caught up in a circle of infidelity and passion, dissatisfaction and betrayal. Tolstoy's work is considered to be a highly realistic picture of Russian society in the latter half of the 19th century. I've read it three times, so far...

John Adams by David McCullough - beautifully written, this story of the New England native who became the second President of the United States begins during the American Revolution. The stories of Adams' contributions during the earliest days of the United States are engaging because they're told in such a personal way. Along-side the political machinations, John and wife Abigail's letters to each other during some incredibly difficult times remind the reader that history is made by real people. It's a large book - don't be daunted by that; I couldn't put it down.

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee - this is Harper Lee's only published novel. A story of racial inequality in the deep South, it's said to be taken from events that happened in or near Lee's hometown of Monroeville, Alabama, when she was ten years old. The family life is realistic and the characters richly painted. Lawyer Atticus Finch and his family will win your heart by page five, if not sooner. I've read this book many, many times. It never gets old.

The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand - the essence of this book is explained by the characterization of protagonist Howard Roark: he is an individual who will settle for nothing less than his own vision of perfection. His philosphy as an architect is that his artistic integrity is of the utmost importance and he's willing to risk a life of poverty and obscurity to uphold his principles. Roark is passionate, but cold, in a way. Likable, though, and the philosophy is fascinating.

I should tell you that the link to each is an Amazon Associate link, meaning that if you click through and purchase any of them, I would receive a small commission. If you don't purchase, I recommend that you visit your local library for these books. Either way, happy reading!

Be sure to leave a comment with your favorite books listed...

By the Light of the Full Moon

2011-01-25T03:30:00.000-08:00

This past week I enjoyed a revelatory experience: a Full Moon Goddess Gathering, courtesy of my dear friend, motivational speaker and self-esteem coach Kathleen Hassan. Kathleen's passion lies in helping teen girls and women of all ages become all they were born to be and unlock their personal power for self-confidence and success.

According to Kathleen, "the light of the full moon illuminates and assists us in releasing the things in our lives that no longer serve us." The event began with a powerful introduction by Kathleen, exhorting us to release the light shining from within. We enjoyed a group angel card reading, a cup of tea, and much letting go of "junk" in our lives. Each of the 18 participants drew one or two angel cards, then took some time to reflect on why the message of those cards may be applicable to her life. With encouragement from Kathleen and this dynamic group of women I gained some insight, including confirmation that I will be better off clenching my teeth less and letting go of my urge to control more.

Kathleen can be relied upon for truth and wisdom. She's generous with a kind word in the context of her coaching practice and in her daily life. She practices what she preaches and is not shy about revealing the difficulties in her past that brought her to this place of knowledge and spirituality where she so joyfully resides. This proponent of the law of attraction also happens to be one of the funniest people I know.

Although the full moon was obscured by thick cloud cover, we goddesses gladly took our individual lists of "things to let go", donned our heavy coats and snow boots, and went to the outdoor firepit to "let it go". As each of us tossed her paper list into the fire and the group chanted over and over "it is gone", we felt a burden lift from our collective shoulders. With hugs for our loving leader and a new-found resolve, we drove off into the nighttime snow flurries feeling a little lighter.

If you'd like to try your own "letting go" session, here is Kathleen's list to help you get started:

comparing myself to others
unworthiness
listening to the voice of ego
putting too much emphasis or care about what others think of me
blame, guilt and shame
judgment
scarcity
limitations
worry
jealousy and envy
not accepting myself - just the way I am

For more on this subject, read Kathleen's post Buh-Bye to What No Longer Serves Me
Photo by Public Domain Pictures.net

How Did I Get Here? Packaging in Review

2011-01-20T03:15:00.000-08:00

In the process of revamping our web site (almost ready) and producing some informal "how-to" videos (still working on them) about Intercept Technology packaging, I began to reflect upon my reason for being involved in the packaging business. Here are my thoughts:

When Joe and I began Liberty Packaging Co., Inc., as a part-time venture 15 years ago, we were enamored of the Intercept products and how miraculous they seemed. Intercept prevents corrosion and drains a static charge at the perfect rate to prevent damage to the products inside, for short or long-term storage, when shipping and storing anywhere in the world. Amazing! A single material that has these capabilities, that does NOT include oils or volatiles, does not outgas or particle shed and is safe for handlers. Fantastic! It works for metals, large machinery, small parts, electronics, rubber and more. We had never heard of any single packaging material that had so many positive attributes. Materials test results substantiated these performance claims and we knew that Bell Labs/Lucent had been using Intercept to package some of its own products for a number of years with great success.

At that time, the possible applications for Intercept Packaging seemed limitless and we got to work finding the manufacturers and other organizations who would see the value of such a versatile material. Because Intercept is a disruptive technology in the packaging field, we found that manufacturers felt the need to do their own testing of the product to be sure it could work for them. Along the way we've gained some loyal customers and enlightened many manufacturers who have been able to reduce the time spent to package their products or parts, reduce the space required to package (no vacuuming required) and even reduce the materials required to package. Safe, clean, easy to use, reusable, recyclable material, Intercept is like a dream come true for these customers.

The jewel of test results is a recently-published paper from Alcatel/Lucent, which quantifies its own testing of Static Intercept. The news is all good: in comparing the use of Static Intercept bags with traditional metalized shield bags for the protection of sensitive electronics, Static Intercept showed superior performance in tests of environmental impact, ESD dissipation, atmospheric pollution and corrosion testing. I won't address all of the points here as the paper is highly detailed, but the conclusion states: "This paper has demonstrated the environmental benefits packaging can have on the storage, shipment, and protection of sensitive electronic components - a 40-fold reduction in GWP (global warming potential). The benefits are shown to be present throughout the entire product lifecycle, but most noticeably in the use phase where the superior protection qualities of the Static Intercept bag are multiplied into environmental benefits."

This paper published by Bell Labs Technical Journal shows that the Static Intercept material has significant environmental and cost advantages over the metalized shield bag.

Liberty Packaging is on the right track - given this validation from Bell Labs, I feel good about my path. And remain astonished by the seemingly magical capabilities of Intercept packaging materials. If your company is interested in corrosion and static protective packaging, and in reducing its environmental impact, or you'd like a copy of "Reducing Environmental Impact and Increasing Reliability Through Packaging: A Lifecycle Assessment Approach", please contact us here.

Recession is a Four Letter Word

2011-01-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

It took some time for the word "recession" to replace the ubiquitous "these tough financial times", a phrase I hope never to hear again. According to Wikipedia, the word recession accurately describes what has been occurring in the world economy, to wit: "In economics, a recession is a business cycle contraction, a general slowdown in economic activity over a period of time for more than two consecutive quarters". Phrases like "credit crunch" and "these challenging financial times" are almost euphemistic in the way they tiptoe gingerly around our recent economic status.

Though the downturn began in 2008 the experts who help us understand the state of our economy only lately began to use the word "recession" to describe our circumstances. But stating the obvious, giving the elephant in the room (perhaps another over used phrase?) a name, then moving on to consider the world the way we'd like to see it seems like a good idea. Continuing to blame those who unwisely changed the reporting requirements for banks, allowing mortgages for people who could not afford them, is foolish. Financial institutions conveniently mashing up numbers to hide their ill-considered and selfish machinations is just wrong. Call it by name, insist that the entities and individuals responsible own their mistakes and make retribution, change the system so this cannot happen again, then move on in a productive and positive fashion.

My ninth-grade English teacher always admonished us to "Tell it like it is". It may sound simplistic, but I think this approach is best in circumstances where there is a challenge to overcome.

The good news according to Recession.org is that bank economists feel the worst of the global recession has passed.

Julien Smith Thinks I'm Fat

2011-01-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

Forgive me. As far as I know, Julien Smith has never said he thinks I’m fat. Here’s what really happened. A New Year’s Day post by Julien caught my attention for two reasons: First, because I’ve gained a few pounds since Thanksgiving week and this weight gain is bugging me. I’ve been the same weight since a short time after my second son was born more than 23 years ago. This is new territory for me, and I’m middle-aged and it’s just weird. Unless you know me very well, you probably won’t notice this weight gain. That’s fine - it’s not really about you, it’s about me.

The second reason Julien caught my attention is that his writing on weight loss suggests I do what I’ve heard from many other sources, but never really (until now) considered doing: give up sugar and flour. I know this works because many friends, particularly those who find themselves facing food allergies or other health issues, have followed a “no sugar/no flour” mandate and all have lost weight, allergy symptoms decreased, life is better, new foods are tried, all good things come to pass. The proof is there: “no sugar-no flour” works for many people.

One reason for my hesitation to employ this regime is that one of my most treasured Christmas gifts is a signed copy of the brand new bakery cookbook by Joanne Chang,  “Flour: Spectacular Recipes from Boston’s Flour Bakery + Cafe” (associate link). This book (click here for my recent review) is chock full of the most delightful recipes, straight from the kitchen(s) of one of Boston’s most prolific pastry chefs.

I’ve already created Joanne’s buttermilk biscuits and snickerdoodles, and each was sublime. In fact, I’ve tried multiples recipes for buttermilk biscuits in the past and hers was the most fluffy, flaky, and tender batch of biscuits I’ve ever made.

The most delightful fun for me in the kitchen is throwing some butter and sugar into my Kitchen Aid mixer and concocting some type of cookie, bar, bread or cake for my family and whoever else happens by for a cup of tea. Perhaps you could say it’s in my DNA to bake. How can I possibly turn my back on sugar and flour?

Let’s just say I’m weighing my options....

The Power of a Dream

2011-01-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

This post is brought to you by the letter P.

It was a dream, yet oh so vivid. It was New Year’s Eve. In my dream, for some reason, my husband was urging me to write about “power". The name Faith Popcorn (affiliate link) was mentioned - perhaps because in years past I’ve thought of her as my go-to predictor of the future as each calendar year comes to a close. In my dream I was craving popcorn, which is not uncommon when I’m awake, truth be told. I enjoy popcorn for snacking every few days. Packaging was featured in said dream as well - we are in the packaging business and had been, in real life, diligently churning out product demo videos over the holiday break.

Needless to say, New Year’s Day my first task was to take note of said dream. Then a reasonably polite interval after breakfast, I made some popcorn.

Power, popcorn, and packaging. Obviously popcorn and packaging figure into the scheme of my life on a regular basis. The word “power” is not one I consider often in relation to my own life. Why “power”? After some consideration, I think it may be related to all the talk of New Years resolutions and self-improvement promises swirling around me. All the promises to exercise more, eat better, quit smoking, refrain from cursing, call Mom weekly. I think this dream of “power” is a message to myself to reread a book that influenced my thinking more than any other in recent memory: “The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment” by Eckhart Tolle’s 1999 self-help book in which Tolle urges us to breathe “the air of the spiritual”. It was immensely helpful to me when I first read it a couple of years ago in my quest to become a more positive-minded individual.

Time to revisit “The Power of Now” and reinforce Tolle’s message of positivity and enlightenment. I find the more I seek the type of positivity found in books like Tolle's, the easier it is to maintain a good attitude, even in times of challenge. To me, that's power.

Good Packaging Evolves

2011-01-06T15:50:00.000-08:00

I recently purchased new bed sheets and pillowcases to ensure that our holiday guests would be comfortable during their stay in our home.
It was a nice surprise to find this thoughtful new packaging from
Springmaid (affiliate link) and Home, a house brand of Target store; both clearly making the effort to reduce the use of plastics and packaging in general. Both have eliminated the usual plastic or cellophane on the outside of the package, which is fine with me, as I normally wash new sheets before using. Each has a small amount of corrugated paper inside the sheets or pillowcases to maintain the shape of the package. Both have used a minimum number of ink colors for imprinting - also a consideration. All of the packaging materials can go into our town's recycle stream.

There is still plenty of work to be done in order to achieve the ultimate in retail packaging (reduce first, then reuse and recycle), but improvements are constantly in the works in the retail realm. The big picture requires packaging materials and methods that will keep the product fresh on the shelf for as long as possible, with fewer and better (recycled, reusable, recyclable) materials. Our responsibility as consumers is to pay attention, try the products, evaluate what works, and continue to be a thoughtful part of the discussion.

Make My Day

2010-12-21T06:16:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year when many people see only the light at the end of the tunnel. They travel through their day with great purpose, without regard for what is swirling around them, only seeing that there are too many other cars on the road home from the office, no parking spots at the mall or in front of the library. If there are two customers in front of them at the ATM, this throws off their carefully-timed expedition by possibly ten minutes - a catastrophe of epic proportions. Perhaps this person is you.

I was once this person. I occasionally lapse into this behavior even now, grumbling about the lack of carriages or baggers at the grocery, the selection of greeting cards at the drugstore. But it's no fun and spreads irritation and ill-will, so I'm offering myself up as a bad example, in case you find yourself indulging in this type of negative behavior. After all, you're only human. My recommendation to you is that you find a mirror (perhaps you're in the car - the rear-view mirror works fine for this little exercise), look yourself in the eye and laugh. It may feel fake, initially. That's okay - give it a try. It really helps - what friendlier face could you find than your own familiar mug, laughing at yourself? It takes the edge off, you can go about your day feeling sufficiently appreciated. Then take a look around you - drink it all in - and remember to pay that smile, that laugh, forward to the next person you see....it's contagious!

Do it - I promise it'll make your day.

Still need a reason to laugh? Try this laughing baby video (if you're at work, turn the volume down).

Flour: Spectacular Recipes from Boston's Flour Bakery + Cafe

2010-12-18T07:22:00.000-08:00

Joanne Chang is an industry all by herself. This young woman has multiple Flour bakery locations (two in Boston, one in Cambridge) plus Asian restaurant Myers + Chang - co-owned with well-respected chef Chris Myers. Joanne's new "Flour: Spectacular Recipes from Boston's Flour Bakery + Cafe" cookbook is flying off the shelves of bookstores (we snagged the last one at Borders in Dedham) and on a recent Saturday morning my husband drove to Flour in the South End to catch up with Joanne and have her sign the book. Meanwhile, the place was mobbed with people clamoring for their Flour breakfast pastry and coffee.

"Flour" is a delightful and creative read - hardcover - co-authored by Christie Matheson with amazing photography by Keller + Keller. Joanne introduces the name "Flour" and her rationale behind that choice, which harkens back to a theoretical math class she took in college (she has a degree in applied math and economics from Harvard). It all makes sense, really. Even the most complex things begin with basic building blocks - if you bake (or even eat), you know that flour is a basic ingredient in many foods, especially baked goods.

Joanne provides us with helpful how-to's on techniques like applying a crumb coat, or whipping egg whites. She also gives the reader a list of necessary kitchen equipment, baking ingredients and why each is important, and her "Joanne's Top 12 Baking Tips". All of this is valuable; then the meat of the book contains recipes for many of the delectable treats you'll find in the Flour Bakery: brioche to banana bread, candied oranges and chocolate sorbet - these are some of the delights for which you'll find very complete instruction. And on page 134, my personal Flour favorite: Homemade Oreos! Can't wait to fire up my Kitchen Aid for this one.

You can find the book on Amazon here. It's also available in the Flour Bakeries.

All told, this "Flour" cookbook is a terrific resource for any baker and I look forward to getting started....

Click here for more about Flour Bakery + Cafe

Packaging Expert JoAnn Hines on Targeting Consumers Through Packaging

2010-12-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

In a recent issue of ThomasNet Industry Marketing Trends (IMT) Expert's Corner, JoAnn Hines, aka The Packaging Diva, lays out how the still-weak economy and fickle consumers are forcing businesses to rethink their packaging decisions.

It goes without saying that packaging plays a critical role in marketing a product or brand. However, it takes more than just a pretty package to sell a product that resonates with consumers.

IMT recently picked the brain of JoAnn Hines, a packaging consultant, speaker, educator and overall one of the busiest people in the packaging industry. Known in the industry as The Packaging Diva, Hines weighs in on some of the key forces within product packaging today.

For Hines' insight into the consumer packaging market, now and for 2011, read the full article here: Targeting Consumers Through Packaging

Reducing Global Warming Potential: A Study Comparing Static Intercept® and Traditional Metalized Shield Bags

2010-12-07T12:05:00.000-08:00

Reducing Global Warming Potential: A Study Comparing Static Intercept® and Traditional Metalized Shield Bags

The news is good - click the link above to read the full story about the ways Intercept barrier packaging can be better for business and the environment.

Shake and Bake

2010-11-16T15:24:00.001-08:00

It's like clock-work: daylight savings time arrives and the urge to spend time in the kitchen with it. All summer we subsist on whatever can be grilled and the occasional dinner out or sandwiches packed and carried to the beach. This last few weeks, though, I'm cooking and baking away: soups, brownies, cookies, chicken marsala, beef stew. It makes me feel warm and the house cozy during these dark Fall afternoons.

It happens every year around this time and I know, like the seasons, the newness of this kitchen creativity will wear off for me, usually by the day after Christmas. Meanwhile, my family enjoys hearty meals and plentiful leftovers. And I'm happy to note that young friend Jane has caught the "baking bug" and we the oh-so grateful beneficiaries of her largesse. So far we've enjoyed delicious cupcakes, sweet potato yeast bread and the best whole wheat dinner rolls ever. We dearly hope this trend continues....

Click here for fun facts about "Spring forward/Fall back"

Packaging - More than Meets the Eye

2010-11-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

Packaging is what catches your eye in the cereal aisle at the grocery store. It's the reason you gravitate to those great headphones in the big box electronics store or that geegaw on the checkout counter at the 24-hour shop near your office. Packaging, or more accurately, packaging design, when well thought out and executed, speaks to you, the target audience, and draws you in. Colors, brand names, materials, fonts, inks, logos, taglines, and mission statements, often more than what the product actually is or does, will dictate your purchase.

Wikipedia's page for Packaging and Labeling provides an all-inclusive definition of the science, art and technology of packaging.

The materials used in packaging design are undergoing close scrutiny - unless you're growing all of your own food, you see evidence of this in the market every day. Sensible use of materials is being demanded by consumers and their advocates and in some countries mandated. Packaging designers and engineers must now consider the whole life of both the product and its packaging when proposing how that product will go to market - food, electronics, appliances, automobile parts, medicines - everything that is in-process, shipped, stored, consumed, exchanged, imported, or exported.

Items packaged safely, but with a minimum of packaging, are gaining popularity because of environmental considerations. Smart packaging is key and changes are being made daily. For amazing and innovative retail packaging ideas, head straight to The Dieline. Manufacturers of electronics and metals where corrosion or field defects may be a concern should consider the benefits of Intercept Technology Packaging as a solution. For cogent discussion on where packaging is headed, read The Packaging Diva's "Packaging News You Can Use" blog and join the discussion.

Focus on Excellence

2010-10-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Mike has the most incredible focus. Mike is single-minded in his approach to learning and so enthusiastic about his studies that I cannot help but be drawn in. The fact that his primary subject is President Kennedy adds to the fascination.

Fifty years ago next month, Democratic Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy faced Republican candidate Richard M. Nixon in the first televised presidential debate in U.S. history. Radio listeners may have thought the debate a draw, but on TV, cool-headed JFK was the clear winner over the frazzled, sweating, five-o-clock-shadowed Nixon. This event forever changed the way politics is viewed in the media and certainly helped Kennedy win the November 8, 1960, election over Nixon.

Though he was in office for but a short time, President Kennedy's most valuable asset was his ability to speak to the citizens of the U.S. (with the help of brilliant speechwriter Ted Sorenson) to convey the importance of diplomacy, the arts, and justice in our world.

Which brings me back to the subject of excellence. My friend Mike is honing his JFK show in every spare moment, constantly striving to be the best he can be, both physically and in his knowledge of the life and times of JFK. He's brilliant at performing the magnificent speeches of JFK, conveying the emotion and careful crafting of every phrase. For Mike, excellence is an imperative.

Click here to learn more about Mike's JFK Experience

Proceed with Caution - Enthusiasm is Contagious

2010-08-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

I recently met young Michael Fontaine, age 20, who has been interested in special effects makeup since he was three years old. He cites the movie "The Exorcist" as the impetus behind his great love of special effects. Michael is both creative and articulate, so his stories of past makeup, drawing, and sculpture projects are completely captivating.

Being around someone like Michael, who expresses excitement and enthusiasm about his work, requires the audience (in this case, me) to see the work through his eyes. While this young man animatedly explained several projects in which he has participated I was thinking how amazing it is that this kid latched onto his chosen career at age three, did the work, made the connections and is now being recommended and mentored by the biggest names in the Hollywood special effects makeup industry. And he continues to do the work (with relish!) to master new skills, as the technology continues to evolve.

You may be working on something completely different, but the energy generated within you by simply listening to a happy and enthusiastic person can carry over into your day, if you're open to that. I know it works for me, even subconsciously. Imagine how a deliberate effort will work - when harnessed properly, another's enthusiasm can power us to focus and be more productive, enjoy the task at hand. That's my plan for tomorrow...

Artwork and photo credits: Michael Fontaine
mfontaine666@gmail.com

The Van Burens Get Ready

2010-08-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

If you know me, you already know that two of these handsome Van Burens (a Canton-based band) in the photograph are my sons. Sears was kind and marketing-savvy enough to sponsor a few groups over the summer for a nifty travel opportunity - a video presentation was required to enter the contest - and The Van Burens were chosen by Sears to receive a travel stipend toward their trip, plus some work on "Ruby Pearl" their trusty band van by the Sears Blue Automotive Crew, as well as a new video camera. Since the VBs are on the road on a regular basis, this is a perfect opportunity for them to work their craft, meet new friends, and hone their video production skills on Sears' dime.

Here for your viewing enjoyment is The Van Burens Get Ready, the band's first video-post of their week-long Sears Exploring My America Road Trip, which takes them through a portion of the Appalachian Trail between Gorham, NH, and Gettysburg, PA.

Stay tuned for new posts each day this week. These guys are a talented bunch, and ensuing videos promise to be filled with their particular brand of off-beat humor, with music and history woven throughout.

Be sure to visit Sears Exploring My America or The Van Burens daily to vote and help the VBs win the Sears contest (and a daily chance for you to win a $100 Amex gift card).
Bon Voyage!

Photo credit Chris Bernstein

The (MacBook Pro) Honeymoon Is Over

2010-08-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

I love my MacBook Pro, don't get me wrong. It's just that I'm no longer infatuated with it. You know that first blush of attraction you get for a new electronic gadget? It's gone, kaput, fizzled. My MacBook Pro (affiliate link) is reliable, smart, and gets things done on time and under budget, but I no longer snuggle into bed with it each night to chat on Facebook or Twitter, or watch my favorite shows on Hulu. For months after I purchased my MacBook Pro I would have separation anxiety each time I left the house. It would wait patiently in its neon pink zippered scuba-gear sleeve and I would long for the moment I could return to power it up and label my photographs, download music, or see who had posted new grandchildren pics on Facebook.

The Mac software, like Garage Band, iPhoto, iTunes and iWeb is used daily. I'm learning something new every month or so with my One to One or Workshop sessions at my favorite Apple Store (Derby Street in Hingham, - hi, Steve and Andy!).

The honeymoon is over, but the comfort level is high. My MacBook and I are together for the long-term.