S1 - The CLEAR Advantage!

Summer Travel Made Easier

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 17:48:00 +0000

I don't know about you - but I love to travel. By car, by train, by boat, by plane - no matter how I get there - I love it! One of the things that makes it a drag is dealing with security when you hit a checkpoint. Another is finding everything you need without having to empty out your entire bag! Well - S1 Bags take care of both of my pet peeves.

Okay, you're thinking that the bags are from my company, of course I think that they are great when dealing with these issues. Honestly - they really ARE! There is nothing like going through airport security and not having to take my laptop out of the bag. Or getting somewhere, not having time to unpack, and being able to see what I need inside my bag. My two favorite traveling bags are the S1 checkpoint friendly laptop bag and gym bag.

Contrary to what you might think - the checkpoint friendly laptop bags are NOT clear~its the design that makes them checkpoint friendly. We worked very closely with the TSA to make sure we met all their guidelines so travelers could go through security checkpoints with ease! Nothing like opening the flap of your bag, putting it flat on the belt, and leaving your laptop where it is, safely surrounded by a half-inch of padding.

The gym bag is my favorite"luggage" because it has 3 side compartments and a large main compartment to hold everything I need for work or play! The side pockets are large enough for my shoes, travel bag and toiletries. The main compartment is large enough for up to a weeks worth of clothing. Best of all - the adjustable strap has a shoulder saving pad and is long enough to be worn across your body. This is so much more comfortable than hanging it from your shoulder.

No matter what bag you need - S1 has a great line of bags to fit that need. Take a moment and see what we have for YOU! Come and see why we are S1 - the CLEAR Advantage!

S1 - The CLEAR Advantage!: Heightened Security for Travelers

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 05 May 2011 15:47:00 +0000

S1 - The CLEAR Advantage!: Heightened Security for Travelers

Heightened Security for Travelers

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 05 May 2011 15:32:00 +0000

Well - this past week has brought an element of closure for most of the world - but not all. Nothing will ever bring back those lost that sunny day in September almost ten years ago, nothing. The aftermath has been felt across the country and around the world. The United States lost our innocence that day and nothing will ever bring it back. We joined ranks with countries spanning the globe that have been ravaged by terrorism and we will stand united with you always.

In the coming days and weeks and months security will become even more of an issue, especially for travelers. How I wish I began S1~Safety First because I thought it would be cool for school and that a clear bag would make it easier for kids in a hurry to find their belongings. Sadly that was not the case. S1 Bags began as one mom to another I tried to design and develop a line of bags to keep our schools safe because of what two boys did in a place called Columbine.

It would be wonderful if we added the Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Bags and Backpack cause they were easy. They were added in response to the TSA's request and designed based on Federal guidelines that make them "checkpoint friendly". This request from the TSA was in response to the heightened security after that day in September that forever changed us.

Fellow American's and as a member of the human race, I stand with you united in the love our our country and our brothers and sisters around the world. We will not be defeated, terrorism will not win and S1 will be there meeting your every need and keeping our schools, offices, airports, sports arenas and other public venues safe. Together, we can make a difference.

Why Clear? See Why S1 is the CLEAR Advantage!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:44:00 +0000

As safety issues become more the focal point of our daily lives, how do we find the balance between privacy and security? So often people ask me if I feel uncomfortable carrying a clear bag. I always say that I would rather have someone see what is in my bag than dump in out the name of safety. To me it is less intrusive to have things visible rather than having someone rifle through my things.

In designing and developing S1 Bags we took into consideration privacy and security at the same time. Let’s face it – everyone knows what we have in our bags ladies and gentlemen. Do you honestly think that because someone can “see” what you have it puts your possessions in greater peril than if it were “hidden” in your bag? Realistically, the answer is no. If anything, when entering a public venue where you go through security screenings, carrying a clear bag makes it easier on everyone and your belongings are not taken out and for all to see. They remain safely in your bag! Not only that, but you spend less time at security checkpoints – a win-win for everyone.

As a fellow traveler, I know how distressing it is to deal with checkpoints and applaud the TSA for setting forth guidelines for the development of checkpoint friendly laptop bags. S1 designed two different checkpoint friendly laptop bags and a checkpoint friendly laptop backpack. Understand that it is not the “clear” that makes S1’s laptop bags checkpoint friendly! It is not – it is the design of the bags – which meet all Federal TSA guidelines as checkpoint friendly. Your laptop is secure in a fully lined and padded compartment. In fact, S1 checkpoint friendly bags have a ½ inch padded compartment that safeguards your laptop when in use. What makes it checkpoint friendly is that the bag opens and lies flat as it goes through the scanner. The front flap does have the patented S1 clear feature for your peripherals and information, but rest assured, your laptop is safe and secure.

Take a look at what S1 has to offer – visit www.s1checkpointfriendlybags.com for our laptop bags and www.s1bags.com to see our full line. S1 has an ever expanding line of bags to meet your every need. Whether for school, business, sports, going to ball games or traveling across town or across the continents, S1 has a bag for all your needs. Come see why we are S1 – the CLEAR advantage!

Easier Travel - Are You Part of the Solution

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:54:00 +0000

There are so many ways to make travel and safety co-exist - are you doing your part? When I travel, which is fairly often, there are little things that I do to make things easier for myself, security and those waiting behind me on the check-in line. You know, that endless line that seems to go on forever; the place where privacy has no place.

No matter how cold it is I wear my sandals -sometimes with socks- that slip right off. I don't wear anything with metal or wire - anywhere! No belt buckles or cute buttons - nothing that can set off the dreaded alarm! All my carry-on items are in a clear bag, whether it is a backpack or gym bag, both fit in the overhead bin. My toiletries are in a clear pouch in the front of side pocket of my carry-on. I also carry a checkpoint friendly laptop bag so I no longer need to remove my laptop and put it in the plastic bin. No chance of me dropping it - or forgetting it - in my haste to get my things. Thanks to the TSA who wanted to speed up check-in time and reduce breakage! They created guidelines that gave specific instructions as to what makes a bag checkpoint friendly. It must lie flat, nothing can be in with your laptop and nothing can obstruct your laptop from the x-ray machine. Simple as that.

Where can you find great quality items that make travel easier! Right here at S1 Bags! Alright, this blog is a direct promotion of my company - but can I help it if my company has designed and developed a line of bags that make safety and convenience possible! You can find our checkpoint friendly bags at www.s1checkpointfriendlybags.com and our clear bags and backpacks at www.s1bags.com. Don't get confused - just because S1 has a line of clear bags and backpacks it is NOT the clear that makes our checkpoint friendly bags checkpoint friendly! It is the design - your laptop is in a fully padded compartment and there is a clear flap in front for your boarding pass, id and peripherals - another great feature of our bags!

We know you will love the quality of our products and the way they make it easier to travel. Be part of the solution - carry an S1 bag and cut down on the time you spend on security checkpoints. Visit our web sites and find out why we are S1 - the CLEAR Advantage!

This Week on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 17:59:00 +0000

Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio

On March 31st on BlogTalkRadio Word of Mom is talking with Beth Butler - better known as Boca Beth - who has made it fun for our children to learn Spanish as a second language. Beth began her journey when her daughter was 14 months old and enrolled in a pre-school to encourage interaction. Beth would visit the school and would write songs to melodies of familiar children’s music. For instance, she used the tune to “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and wrote new words to match the beat while introducing a brand new concept of how to say “Hi” and “Bye” in English as well as “Hola” and “Adiós” in Spanish. Little children (being the sponges that they are between the ages of birth to five) soaked up the new songs quickly, asking for “More Boca Beth / Más Boca Beth” with each visit made to their preschool. Thus the Boca Beth program was born!!! Her goal is to create better communication within our increasingly diverse society by providing a fun and easy introduction to Spanish and English with music, movement and creativity. The program now features 4 bilingual CD's. 3 bilingual educational movies, color/activity books, puppets and more. Join us on BlogTalkRadio at 2pmEST/11amPST on the 31st and find out more about the Boca Beth way! Follow Word of Mom on Twitter @Dori_WordofMom, join the Word of Mom Facebook Fan Page or email me at dori.wordofmom@gmail.com for more information. You can join the conversation by calling Word of Mom at 347 850 8994 during the live broadcast.

Word 0f Mom on MomTV

Word of Mom on MomTV this Thursday 4pmET/1pmPT is taking a proactive turn and sharing Jill Starishevsky an Assistant District Attorney in New York City, where she has prosecuted hundreds of sex offenders and dedicated her career to seeking justice for victims of child abuse and sex crimes. Outside the courtroom, Jill's fondness for writing led her to create thepoemlady.com, where she pens personalized pieces for all occasions. Her mission to protect children, along with her penchant for poetry, inspired My Body Belongs to Me, a book intended to prevent child sexual abuse by teaching 3-8 year olds their bodies are private. A mother of three, Jill is also founder of HowsMyNanny.com, a service that enables parents to purchase a license plate for their child's stroller so the public can report positive or negative nanny observations. Join us for this serious conversation and find out ways to protect your children on Word of Mom 3/31 on MomTV.

Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio and MomTV

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:08:00 +0000

This Thursday is a jam-packed day on Word of Mom!

At 2pmEST/11amPST I will be speaking with Dr. Linette Daniels on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio. Linette is a national speaker, author and coach who, for the past 20 years, has worked with youth from the cradle through college in a variety of arenas which include public school, child care, foster care, juvenile court, social services, and youth-serving organizations.
As a single parent, Linette used her vision to see infants’ progress into developmentally strong toddlers, academically prepared preschoolers, empowered youth and successful adults. This vision enabled her to raise 12 therapeutic foster care and 2 biological children. Dr. Daniels’ believes that given the right space, tools, and training, ALL youth can succeed and her favorite activity is showing youth “how” to start a business and create the life they want to live!
For more information you can visit Linette at www.empoweringyouthforsuccess.com. Please join me and my guest co-host Heather Hetchler @CafeSmom on Word of Mom on the 24th at 2pmET/11amPT or call us at 347 850 8994 as we talk about how you have a business - and your kids need one too!

At 4pmEST/1pmPST Word of Mom on MomTV I will be talking with Moira Podgurski about her story that she shares on her blog www.IsItAnIllusion.blogspot.com. In 1985 Moira was diagnosed with Leukemia and told that she has 3-5 years to live. Our conversation will share her journey of survival - which she began 25 years ago.
Join us as Moira share her journey as a World Class Hurdler, mother of 3, business owner and survivor as we talk on MomTV at 4pmEST/1pmPST.

For more on Word of Mom, email me at dori.wordofmom@gmail.com, follow me on Twitter at Dori_WordofMom, join the Word of Mom fan page on Facebook, visit our website www.wordofmom.ning.com

The Primrose School Family Dance Off - a Benefit for the Children's Miracle Network

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:23:00 +0000

Join me on Thursday February 24th on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio at 2pmEST/11amPST as I chat with Natosha Eskander, Owner, Primrose School at Pinnacle in Grove City, Ohio about the Family Dance off.

Shine your dancing shoes and break out your best moves because the Primrose Family Dance-off is back! Those of you who participated last year know just how much fun it was to keep up your heels and dance your hearts out with your family. Our friends at Primrose Schools can’t wait to crown another round of Family Dance-off champions- and we can’t wait to tell you about it!

With their second annual Family Dance-off, Primrose Schools, the leader in educational child care, is helping to fight the childhood obesity epidemic. They are partnering with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to promote physical activity, healthy lifestyle choices and quality family time, things all Moms can get behind!
Here’s how you and your family can enter the Primrose Family Dance-off competition:

1. Record a 30-second video of your family’s best dance moves. Don’t be afraid to let loose and be silly!
2. Visit www.FamilyDanceoff.com and upload your best take by March 19.
3. Share your video with your friends via email, Facebook, Twitter, etc.
4. View and vote daily (you can place five votes per day) for your favorite family dance video!

What would a competition be without prizes? Primrose Schools is providing prizes that aren’t only great for your family but for your whole community, with $65,000 in donations to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals:
· Grand Prize: $5,000 and Primrose will make a $30,000 donation to a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital
· 2nd Prize: $3,000 and Primrose will make a $20,000 donation to a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital
· 3rd Prize: $1,500 and Primrose will make a $15,000 donation to a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital
· All 14 Finalists will also receive a FLIP camcorder

Childhood obesity is a critical issue for young children in America. Dance is a fun, easy way to introduce physical activity into your family’s routine while enjoying quality time together. The Family Dance-off supports Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals, which collectively treat 17 million children annually for every illness and injury imaginable.

For more information visit their site at http://www.FamilyDanceoff.com or call us at 347 850 8994 and join the conversation here on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio. You can also email me at dori.wordofmom.com, follow on Twitter at Dori_WordofMom, join the Word of Mom fan page on Facebook and visit the Word of Mom website.

The Primrose School Family Dance Off - a Benefit for the Children

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:23:00 +0000

Join me on Thursday February 24th at 2pmEST/11amPST as I chat with Natosha Eskander, Owner, Primrose School at Pinnacle in Grove City, Ohio about the Family Dance off.

Shine your dancing shoes and break out your best moves because the Primrose Family Dance-off is back! Those of you who participated last year know just how much fun it was to keep up your heels and dance your hearts out with your family. Our friends at Primrose Schools can’t wait to crown another round of Family Dance-off champions- and we can’t wait to tell you about it!

With their second annual Family Dance-off, Primrose Schools, the leader in educational child care, is helping to fight the childhood obesity epidemic. They are partnering with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to promote physical activity, healthy lifestyle choices and quality family time, things all Moms can get behind!
Here’s how you and your family can enter the Primrose Family Dance-off competition:
1. Record a 30-second video of your family’s best dance moves. Don’t be afraid to let loose and be silly!
2. Visit www.FamilyDanceoff.com and upload your best take by March 19.
3. Share your video with your friends via email, Facebook, Twitter, etc.
4. View and vote daily (you can place five votes per day) for your favorite family dance video!

With $65,000 in donations to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and prizes for the finalists - this is a win-win competition - so get ready to dance away... for more information visit their site at http://www.FamilyDanceoff.com or call us at 347 850 8994 and join the conversation here on BlogTalkRadio.

The Total Woman Conference on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:49:00 +0000

On February 17 at 2pmEST/11amPST on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio I will be conversing with Princess Bola Adelani - owner of Royal Proclamations Total Life Success - and creator of the Total Women Conference.

The Total Woman Conference (TWC) is a one-day, multi-generational conference designed to provide “Total C.A.R.E. for Women in ALL Spheres of their Lives. TWC exists to Celebrate, Applaud, Refresh and Equip the Whole Woman”™. The Total Woman Conference will celebrate the uniqueness of womanhood, applaud the often overlooked achievements of women in Family, Community Development and Business. Three Women of Distinction will be recognized and applauded via our Woman of Distinction Awards.

This conference is designed to refresh, de-stress, rejuvenate and pamper the women in attendance with spa treatments, massage therapists, and cosmetologists. Equip with informational seminars from dynamic speakers who will inspire and empower you for excellence and distinction personally, professionally and spiritually, the Total Women Conference is going to be an event worth attending.

The 3rd annual conference is scheduled for April 2, 2011 8:00 am - 5:00 pm + so it is a full day of information, relaxation and rejuvenation for your business and your body. Word of Mom is one of the Event Partner of the TWC and will be broadcasting live from the event. For more information please visit http://www.totalwomanconference.com and take advantage of early registration discounts.

Tune in for Word of Mom on Thursday February 17th at 2pmEST/11amPST as Princess Bola and other guests share this unique conference with us all. You can call in and be part of the conversation at 347 850 8994, email me at Dori.wordofmom@gmail.com, follow me on Twitter @Dori_WordofMom, join the Facebook WoM fan page and become a member on our website - Wordofmom.ning.com.

A Conversation with Andrea Patten on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 14:45:00 +0000

What do land sales, addiction treatment and workshops for women have in common? Not much – unless you’re talking to author, trainer, women’s advocate and dot-connector Andrea Patten. That's what I am doing on February 10 at 2pm EST - 11am PST on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio.

Andrea has been inspiring women all over the world and is now taking the time to inspire here on Word of Mom. Andrea's accomplishments are many...Her Success Parent blog and her book What Kids Need to Succeed: Four Foundations of Adult Achievement offers parents useful insights from high-achieving adults. A lifelong advocate for children and families, she currently volunteers as an Area Coordinator for the Direct Selling Women’s Alliance . Whether working with life-threatening issues or creating custom change-your-life workshops, Andrea creates profoundly honest experiences that deliver enthusiasm, joy and new perspective.

Join us as we chat on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio February 10, 2pm EST - 11am PST or be part of the conversation by calling in at 347 850 8994. For more information on Word of Mom - or to be a guest - email me at dori.wordofmom@gmail.com. Take a look at the Word of Mom Website, follow me on Twitter @Dori_WordofMom and join the Word of Mom Facebook fan page.

Dane Terrell - on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 17:36:00 +0000

Thursday, February 3rd Word of Mom welcomes Dane Terrell - author and film writer and my first male guest! Dane grew up in San Francisco, CA. As a child, Dane dreamed of working in the film industry. Majoring in Radio and Television Broadcasting at San Francisco State University, Dane began producing community affair programming, like "Bay Views," a culinary and cultural arts show, aired over San Francisco’s Public access channel. As a producer of “Inside The Game,” Dane produced and interviewed prominent college athletes and Major Athletic Directors such as Ted Leland of Stanford.

Also at this time, Dane took an internship at KRON 4 NEWS in San Francisco. As a production assistant, Dane accompanied Producers on remote locations and was tasked with organizing interviews and shoot locations.
It was during this time that Dane learned the value of time and professionalism to produce, top notch productions. In the studio, Dane assisted the editors in editing news packages, and coordinated between the directors and sports producers. Dane also wrote script copy for renown, sports anchor, Gary Radnich. It was here that Dane developed his passion for writing.

After obtaining his B.A. in Radio and Television from San Francisco State in 2003, Dane went to work for Entercom, LLC. With radio and television stations, countrywide, Dane served as an audio producer, producing commercials and promos. A frequent traveler, Dane has visited Spain, Italy and France, Amsterdam and Germany. Dane speaks fluent Spanish, is well versed in Italian, Catalan and Portuguese and now is taking up French.

Dane is a poet and author. He is in the process of writing his first novel, a fantasy adventure. Dane has written five-original, screenplays and is currently writing new material. Dane has optioned a short script titled, “Sour Grapes.” At this moment, Dane is producing his first, feature film “Casey.” "Casey" deals with the pain of multiple miscarriages, women alcoholics and abuse. Join us on BlogTalkRadio for Word of Mom, follow along on Twitter and Facebook, take a look at the Word of Mom website - all where MOMpreneurs have a voice.

Big Blend Magazing Back on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:09:00 +0000

On Thursday January 27th 2pmET/11amPT BigBlendMagazine is back on Word of Mom. BigBlendMagazine.com, has been owned and operated since 1997, by mother-and-daughter team Nancy J. Reid - Editor and Production Director, and Lisa D. Smith - Editor and Marketing Director. Together Nancy and Lisa offer over 40 years of marketing, photography, and editorial experience in the travel, lifestyle, leisure, special interest, hospitality, business and retail industries.

BigBlendMagazine.com got its start as a San Diego based print and online publication called The Blend Magazine. A few years later, it expanded to becoming SouthwestBlend.com covering the southwestern US states. In 2006, boasting over 1 million unique visitors per month, it became a completely online publication and expanded to being national and international in coverage. In 2008, BigBlendMagazine.com added 10 online radio shows to the mix, as well as Big Blend TV.

Now, in 2011, in celebration of 14 years in being published with over 2.7 million monthly unique visitors, and 4 years of online radio broadcasting with over 800,000 listeners, BigBlendMagazine.com is proud to announce its expansion into becoming ten online magazines, each with their own online radio show on Big Blend TV channel. Featuring articles, interviews, games and giveaways, and Big Blend Radio show schedules, BigBlendMagazines.com also publishes the The Daily Blend eNews, which is sent to over 270,000 subscribers every day.

The 10 New Radio Magazines include:
- www.ChampagneSundaysMagazine.com art, books, music and entertainment radio magazine

- www.CreativeCelebrationsMagazine.com wedding and event planning radio magazine

- www.EatDrinkBeMerryMagazine.com food and drink radio magazine

- www.GardenGossipMagazine.com home & garden radio magazine

- www.QualityofLifeMagazine.com health, spirit, family and style radio magazine

- www.RantsRavesRockMagazine.com politics, issues and rock radio magazine

- www.NatureConnectionMagazine.com nature, science and environment radio magazine

- www.SuccessExpressMagazine.com business, career and finance radio magazine

- www.VacationStationMagazine.com travel and leisure radio magazine

- www.WayBackWhenMagazine.com history and heritage radio magazine

Join us on Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio Thursday January 27, 2pm ET/11am Pt or give us a call in at 347 850 8994 and hear all about the new publications and more. For info on Word of Mom visit the Word of Mom website, follow me on Twitter Dori_S1_Bags, join the Facebook fan page DoriS1Bags or email me dori.s1bags@gmail.com.

Empowering our Youth with Dr. Linette Daniels on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 20:13:00 +0000

On Thursday January 20th at 2pmEST/11amPST I will be speaking with Dr. Linette Daniels on the Word of Mom show on BlogTalkRadio. Linette is a national speaker, author and coach who, for the past 20 years, has worked with youth from the cradle through college in a variety of arenas which include public school, child care, foster care, juvenile court, social services, and youth-serving organizations.

As a single parent, Linette used her vision to see infants’ progress into developmentally strong toddlers, academically prepared preschoolers, empowered youth and successful adults. This vision enabled her to raise 12 therapeutic foster care and 2 biological children.Dr. Daniels’ believes that given the right space, tools, and training, ALL youth can succeed and her favorite activity is showing youth “how” to start a business and create the life they want to live! For more information you can visit Linette at empoweringyouthforsuccess.com.

Please join us on Word of Mom on the 20th at 2pmET/11amPT or call us at 347 850 8994 as we talk about how you have a business - and your kids need one too! For more on Word of Mom, email me at dori.s1bags.com, follow me on Twitter at Dori_S1_Bags, on the Word of Mom Facebook fan page and on the web at Word of Mom.

Dr Lynne Kenney - The Family Coach Method on Word of Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 20:37:00 +0000

On Thursday January 13 at a special time on BlogTalkRadio - 1pmEST/10amPST Lynne Kenney, Psy.D., will be joining me on Word of Mom. Dr. Kenney is a mother of two, a practicing pediatric psychologist for 15 years at Beljan Neuropsych in Scottsdale, AZ, and the creator of The Family Coach Method. She has advanced fellowship training in forensic psychology and developmental pediatric psychology from Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and Harbor-UCLA/UCLA Medical School. Dr. Kenney is one of "the most accessible mom media experts,” a featured contributor on on Socialmoms.com and the host of Dr. Lynne Weighs In on BlogTalk Radio. Dr. Kenney is currently a featured expert in Parents magazine and Parenting magazine. Since 2006, she has co-produced three television shows and six DVDs with Baby First TV, and hosted the Baby First TV show “Baby Basics.” Her Better Living Content has appeared on ABC, the Montel Williams Show, and various child/family websites including parentsask.com and momtastic.com. Dr. Kenney is the parenting expert on Smart Family ABC 15 in Phoenix and you can watch her every Wednesday at 3:30 pm. Her book The Family Coach Method is enjoyed by families worldwide. She also offers free parenting resources at lynnekenney.com. Join us as we chat on the 13th at 1pmEST/10amPST. For more info on Word of Mom, contact me at dori.s1bags@gmail.com, follow me on Twitter, on The Word of Mom fan page on Facebook at and on the web at Word of Mom.

Word of Mom - Mompreneurs at our BEST!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:19:00 +0000

I don't know about you - but I was told that is was a "man's world" and that a woman's place is in the home! Well - our place is in the home, and the board room and the senate, and someday - the White House! Women are out there in full force, and a force to be reckoned with.

More and more, mompreneurs are becoming the norm. We are NOT women who dabble in business between bake sales, we are smart, savvy businesswomen who have found the balance between raising a family and building a business. I don't know about you - but I am proud to be called a Mompreneur - because it shows that Mom has always been my most important role in life and being an entrepreneur has evolved from that role.

I wanted to build a business and not sacrifice my children doing it. For a time I was in the corporate world, and making great money I might add. Then one day my daughter became ill at school and my "boss" told me that he paid me x amount of money and that I couldn't go. Well - that was the turning point for me! I decided his money wasn't worth it and walked away. Fortunately I became involved in a MLM - which I know most people are afraid of. For me, it gave me flexible hours and a way to make good money. As I spent time in the company I began to attend different training sessions and one theme was constantly repeated as I built my "businesses" and that was, "Why word this hard to build someone's business when you can build your own!" Did that ever make sense.

I eventually left that company, but that theme kept playing on...and I have never looked back. I worked with 2 marketing company's - both times as an owner and the VP of Marketing and then finally branched out on my own. Then an event happened that changed the course of things for me. One day in Columbine two students went to school and decided to take out their rage on their classmates and teachers and a call to action happened in my heart. As a mom of three I could not imagine kissing one of my children goodbye and not having them return from school because someone brought a gun into the classroom in their backpack. Thus the "birth" of S1 - Safety First.

With four of the best people I know I set out to design and develop a line of clear bags and backpacks to assist with the safety issues being implemented in our school. More and more of them were requiring students carry clear bags or no bags - and as a mom - I know where the bags break. My children were instrumental in their design and S1 has grown from four bags to nineteen in five years. The latest addition is our checkpoint friendly laptop bags and backpacks developed with the TSA guidelines so travelers no longer need to remove their laptops at airport security checkpoints. This is why we are S1 - The CLEAR Advantage!

Well - as the years have gone on, my need to continue to give back has grown. That is why I am beginning a MomTV segment of Word of Mom that debuts January 20, 2011 at 4pmEST/1pmPST. This is an extension of Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio which airs on Thursdays at 2pmEST/11amPST. Mom's support mom's and I wanted to continue to brand my show that celebrates the Mompreneur while sharing tips on how to grow your business, create viral marketing and still be able to stop and play with your kids when they get home. I hope that you will follow along and share as I share so we may learn from each other! Please connect with me on Twitter, join the Word of Mom fan page on Facebook, become a member of the Word of Mom website or email me directly at dori.s1bags@gmail.com and lets see how we can support each other in the coming new year.

MOMbo Media

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 20:28:00 +0000

The last Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio for 2010 is Thursday, December 16th at 2pmET/11amPT - and I am talking with Kemi Ingram from MOMboTV. Kemi is the President of MOMbo Media, a company that provides social media support services to humanitarian agencies, faith-based organizations and ’responsibly produced’ consumer products. MOMbo Media works to connect moms to ‘brands and causes they can believe in.’ As a new media producer since 2006, Kemi Ingram has become a leading voice in the social media space–representing a broad audience of mindful parents and socially responsible consumers. An author, activist and ’armchair theologian,’ Ingram holds a BS in Public Policy, Management and Planning from the University of Southern California, an MA in Theology from Fuller Seminary and an MTh in Applied Theology from Oxford University in England. Kemi Ingram is a frequent conference speaker and workshop presenter (in the areas of social media/emerging technology and social entrepreneurship). Her advocacy work on behalf of women and children around the world has resulted in meaningful relationships with US policy makers and global thought leaders. Her work at MOMbo Media allows her to support relief and development projects around the world.

Kemi is a ‘home-preschooling’ mother of three and a committed social entrepreneur. Her entrepreneurial work has been featured in several leading women’s magazines in the US as well as abroad.

Joining us is my guest co-host for the day - Karen Bierdeman - The Guilt Free Mom. You can follow her on Twitter and visit her website www.theguiltfreemom.com.

You can follow Kemi on Twitter and find out more about MomboTV by visiting www.mombotv.com.

For information please email me at dori.s1bags@gmail.com - follow me on Twitter - join Word of Mom on the Ning Network and follow me on Facebook and join the Word of Mom Fan page on Facebook

Bonnie Gortler - The Option Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 19:12:00 +0000

On Thursday, December 9th at 2pmET/11amPT Word of Mom on BlogTalkRadio is sharing a mom who isn't a mompreneur - but an amazing entrepreneur. Bonnie Gortler, married for 28 years, mother of a daughter in college, entered into the world of finance, when she accepted, in 1982, a position in the marketing department of a growing investment management corporation. Bonnie’s interests broadened from marketing to include the direct provision of investment services. Her knowledge and capabilities expanded as she completed an evening MBA program in finance at the Roth Graduate Business School of Long Island University while handling rapidly growing responsibilities at her firm.In due course, Bonnie advanced to associate and then to full portfolio manager, ultimately to the position of head portfolio manager within the firm. At this time, Bonnie directly leads a team of portfolio managers responsible for the investment of client assets in excess of $250 million. Bonnie closely identifies with her firm’s belief that its mission lies with serving people, rather than simply handling money and investments. Bonnie is multi-faceted, loyal, a proven leader, a compassionate woman who is a hard working stock market guru in the corporate world for 28 years. Bonnie enjoys the world of entrepreneurship through home based businesses. She has the innate ability to take the stress out of investing and she helps others while establishing strong professional relationships both online and offline. Bonnie’s mission lies with serving people, sharing her expertise and experience helping others to achieve their dreams, rather than simply handling money and investments. She has built many contacts within social media channels as she continues to expand her professional, entrepreneurial and personal life as she strives to be her best and turn her vision into a reality inspiring others to reach their goals & dreams. Follow Bonnie on Twitter and download her free E-Book Twitter Magic
Join us on BlogTalkRadio or give us a call at 347 850 8994 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 347 850 8994 end_of_the_skype_highlighting with your questions and comments. You may reach me at dori.s1bags@gmail.com, on Facebook, on Twitter and on LinkedIn

Amy and the Award Winning Balance MAP!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:47:00 +0000

On Thursday, November 18 11amPT/2pmET Amy Hilbrich Davis comes back on Word of Mom on Blog Talk Radio to share her now award winning Balance MAP with all of us. Amy was one of my guests on the debut of Word of Mom and she shared the Balance MAP with all who tuned in to the show and listened to the archives. Above is a family picture of Amy, her husband and partner Randy and their 7 - yes - 7 children. Well - plenty has happened since. Maria Bailey came on the 2nd Word of Mom show to share the Huggies MomInspired Grant program for innovative ideas to make the life of parents easier - and Ame was awarded one of the $15,000.00 grants!!! Talk about making a difference! It is so exciting to feel like I had a very small part in sharing this amazing grant program - and now Ame is here to share with us the difference being a Huggies "Inspired Mom" has made in her life and that of bringing the Balance MAP to the forefront of revolutionary products for the "Job of Mom". Along with the Balance MAP, Amy also offers her Recipe for Success - which include personal wellness, partner relationships, parenting skills, support networks and home and family management. Visit her site at http://www.inspiringmoms.com and see ways to create the balance, success and happiness that you look for as a parent. Amy and I are joined my guest co-host Heather Hetchler - who created a support system for the step-parent that can be found at http://www.cafeSmom.com. All of us look forward to chatting with each other this Thursday and look forward to you joining us. You can call us at 347 850 8994, email me at dori.s1bags@gmail.com, visit http://www.wordofmom.ning.com, follow me on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/Dori_S1_Bags and join the Facebook Word of Mom Fan Page!

Living My MoMent on Blog Talk Radio

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 16:34:00 +0000

On November 11 at 11amPT/2pmET I am chatting with Abbey Fatica on BlogTalkRadio. She is the creator of Living My MoMent. Living My MoMent was started in April 2009 when Abbey was trying to figure out a way to make some extra cash. A Stay at Home Mom to her daughter at the time she really wanted to contribute somehow to their income. After searching online for many months, trying to come up products to sell and not being able to find anything that spoke to me, she had an AHA MoMent!
While watching Oprah, Abbey was intrigued by the segment on MoM bloggers and although she had never really thought about Blogging as an profession, Heather Armstrong from Dooce.com changed her mind. Seeing how a mom just like herself could make a living out of blogging about her life then Abbey could do it, too!
On top of just blogging, Abbey wanted to offer some kind of service to
family run business owners. These types of businesses are usually hit the hardest when the economy is bad and she didn't want to see all of their efforts go to waste. So why not offer FREE ADVERTISING. And that's where we started!
Living My MoMent has grown quite a bit over the last year and an half. Through this growth, we have incorporated many other options for the small business owner to advertise with us on our site: Ad Spaces, Product Reviews, Giveaways, Blogrolls, Dedicated Articles, Promotions on Facebook and Twitter and much more. To find out how you can get the most bang for your buck, and if you have any suggestions, questions, ideas, comments or are a MoM or DaD with a business wanting space on Living My MoMent, tune in to BlogTalkRadio and find out how to get in touch with Abbey or call us at 347 850 8994.

Gagagougou and All Things Baby

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:44:00 +0000

Remember the old stereotype of people feigning baby-talk saying "Gagagougou..." well - Iris Wu took that playful moment and turned it into a great store where moms can buy good products, essential products, at a price they can afford. How did Gagagougou begin? As a WAHM of 2 small children, Iris was one of the first moms in her family to stay at home and create a home-based business. Deciding to work from home while pregnant with her second child, she started a mommy group and, with all the new products on the market every day, she began testing out new items and gadgets. Friends began asking her what she liked and didn't and eventually, they began suggesting that she share her experiences with other moms so they didn't waste their time and money on useless products. Thus began Gagagougou! So - now Iris started an internet based business - but just how do you go about funding, marketing and building your business when you have a 4 and 2 year old at home?!? With a little help from your friends, thats how. Mompreneurs know that moms support moms and Iris turned to past Word of Mom guest Shara from Mommy Perks to advertise Gagagougou and really get the word out. She also began Gaga-Blog to bridge the gap between Gagagougou, parents, WAHMs and the companies of the products she shares and reviews. Her story is so interesting and she will be sharing this and more with me on Thursday October 28th at 2pm EST. Follow Iris on Twitter and connect with her on Facebook. Kasey Lian will be my guest co-host so join us on Word of Mom or give us a call at 347 850 8994 and join the chat as Iris shares her passion with all of us!

Big Blend Magazine on Word of Mom's BTR Show!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 19:00:00 +0000

How exciting for Word of Mom to return to the airwaves with a show like this! On Thursday, September 9th at 2pm on Blog Talk Radio I welcome the 2 amazing women behindBig Blend Magazine, which has been published since 1997. Passionate and dedicated to educating the public about the various and diverse facets of the USA and the rest of the world, Big Blend Magazine is operated by mother and daughter team Nancy J. Reid - Editor and Production Director, and Lisa D. Smith - Editor and Marketing Director. Together they offer over 40 years of marketing, photography, and editorial experience in the travel, lifestyle, leisure, special interest, hospitality, business and retail industries.

Online for over 13 years, http://www.BigBlendMagazine.com has an average of 2.6 million unique visitors who enjoy articles, recipes and radio interviews. Hosted by Nancy and Lisa for almost 4 years, Big Blend Radio features 10 different radio shows, which air live Friday-Monday on BlogTalkRadio.com

This is the info for the professional face that Big Blend Magazine prides itself on. It is top-notch every step of the way and shows the depth of the background of its editors. On Word of Mom I want you to know the story behind the magazine and the powerhouse tag-team that Nancy and Lisa are, because that is the real story. It all began when Nancy, a successful wildlife artist, writer and photographer led tours from LA to Kenya, East Africa with Lisa - who was 1 1/2 at the time. Their travels have taken them all over the world and led them to the amazing work they do now. As Lisa and I were chatting about our upcoming interview I was sharing why Word of Mom is so special to me and my pride at being a Mompreneur! Too often people turn their nose up at that title -as if Mompreneurs dabble in business between bake sales. Well, as I said to Lisa, if Nancy hadn't been a pioneering Mompreneur, Lisa wouldn't have been in Kenya with her mom, she would have been home with a nanny!

I am so happy to share these women with you, and hope that my daughter tunes in and gets some ideas for the future...(wink, wink!) Tune in on Thursday September 9th at 2pm EST as my guest host Heather Hetchler @cafeSmom and I chat with Nancy and Lisa about the journey that led them to the magazine and the airwaves. Follow them on twitter at @BigBlendMag and, to find out more about their travels and experiences.

Not Helpless Anymore

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:34:00 +0000

On Thursday, September 16 at 2pm EST on Word of Mom on Blog Talk Radio, I am introducing a very powerful story with all of you. I'm here to share with you a little bit about a woman that fell in love with this handsome, athletic guy… The man of her dreams!! They fell in love and got married, she had everything a young woman could ever want, a husband, a career, children in other words her own fairytale come true. Few years into the marriage, shortly after they had their second child, her husband ask her to stop working and take care of the children full-time; she agrees since he was in the military and they were comfortable economically. Shortly after that, he decided to sell her car, because there was no need to have multiple vehicles he said. Then he started timing her and checking the odometer in his car; if she was on the phone he will sit next to her and listen to her conversations.

Later his attentions with her started changing, everything she did appears to be wrong the more she tried to make everything to his standards the worse he treated her. Suddenly one morning without warnings, he grabs her by the ankle pulls her off the bed and starts punching her repeatedly. His excuse, he had a bad report from his commander. Once he calmed down he apologizes and he said it wasn’t going to happen again he said he will seek help and everything will go back to what it was. A week later he got home from work and he didn’t agree with what she cooked for him so he push her against the counter and start beating. This time she woke up in the hospital, no signs of her kids, or him; just few broken ribs and bruises everywhere but even then her physical pain wasn’t as great as the pain of not knowing the fate of her kids; Did he hurt them? Are they safe? Nobody, seems to have an answer.

Finally a familiar face an MP (Military Police) that works with him walks in the door ask her for a statement and, in closing, he said its not as bad as it looks. You should try to work things out! Your kids are safe they will be in the room in a little bit. Sighs of relief were heard from the hospital bed. Once she had some privacy she called the state police and ask them to come to the hospital where they took a statement and arrested him. The Military Police didn’t think it was necessary to press charges, but she took manners into her own hands.

Once he was arrested she called her mother who clearly stated over the phone “You must have done something, and you deserve what he did to you”. Hurt by her mothers words she realizes she was alone; the woman that brought her into this world thinks she deserve it - who is out there that would want to help her out of this situation?

According to the state there wasn’t enough evidence to prosecute him plus, since the incident happened on the military premises the military police were to be the ones that needed to press charges. They let him go and the the military let him return to the house again. At this point she didn’t care about herself. She had no family and no money. All she cared about was her children and making sure that they were safe, which is a hard thing to do since she was unable to use the phone because he walked around the house with the cordless in his pocket and will put it in the car while he was at work so she couldn’t call for help. She had no money because he had all the checks, ATM cards, credit cards; everyday she woke up it was a blessing because she was able to see another day.

The Military order him to go to anger management classes and he leaves work to “attend” but (he never make it to the sessions). He said he wanted to change and for a period of few months he did, things were no punches, no bruises, they started to attend church, and spend family time together. She got pregnant (on the pill), he received a phone call from Puerto Rico where they were originally from with bad news his nephew/godson was going to be taken away from his mother and placed in foster care if no one from the family wanted to be responsible for him. They talk and agree to bring the child to live with them. He goes to pick him up, it was really exciting for their kids, and while he went and picked him up the rest of the family went shopping for winter cloth for him and a bedroom set so he had his own things when he arrived. Angel went to up-state NY to live with his new family, the 3 kids were happy but soon the screaming and yelling started all over, only now was there was one more child in the house but she was pregnant again. Angel grows very close to his new family, so close he call his godfather's wife Mom and the kids brother and sister…Angel never had a brother or a sister and he sits with his new mom and tells her "I'm going to be the man of the house and I'm going to take care of all of you". (He was the older among the children) He use to rub his moms belly and say “It will be okay baby”.

One day his “dad” started yelling and he took the rest of the kids into the room and close the door. Dad had mom by the neck and had the water in the tub running and he kept screaming "I should’ve have done this a long time ago". Angel started screaming to leave his mommy alone and he lets go of mom to push Angel out of the bathroom. Mom is afraid that he was going to hurt him and runs out of the bathroom, tired of all the abuse, and reaches for dads gun. When he reached for he,r Angel jumped in the way and dad gave him a deadly blow to his head. Mom grabbed the gun and pointed at him and said “Self defense its not murder” and made him give her the phone. She called the police while pointing at him - his own gun! Mom runs to Angel just to find out that he was not breathing. When police and paramedics arrive at the house they pronounce him dead.

The Military Police remove the man, the woman, the kids and the body of Angel from the house. Kids were put in foster care while they conducted investigations, because according to the Military Police, they didn’t had any records of previous disturbances. Thankfully she had copy of all the paperwork and records from hospital or God knows what would’ve happened. Her father, the kids grandfather, requested custody of the children while they clear moms name. A new baby is born 4 months later healthy and okay, just like Angel said, but her dad had to pick him up from the hospital before social services took him too.

Mom fought tirelessly the military, the department of children and families, and all the people that wanted to make it impossible for her to get on her feet. Wanting to give up many times, tempted to start using alcohol and drugs, with suicidal thoughts because she didn’t only loose Angel, she lost her other kids to the state. Her home that was impounded for evidence; for her there was nothing else she could loose. She stayed strong! Eventually she got custody back of the 2 oldest but by the time they were able to clear her name, the baby was almost a year old and the only mom and dad he knew were his grandparents, so for the childs well being they decided that it was best for them to adopt him.

Her Prince charming was found guilty of murder, 2 counts of aggravated assault, 1 attempted homicide against mom, and he is serving 25 years in Ft. Leavenworth (Military Prison). She knows the pain of losing a child; she knows that the physical pain is nothing compared to the emotional pain that domestic violence cause and how it can scar you for life if you allow it to. Angel’s death is the reason why she and her kids are alive today and she has a testimony to share.

This is the story of Edca, a survivor of domestic violence. She is 33 years old, owns couple clothing stores, and is a talent manager with a company that meets the needs for the entertainment business. The reason why she is sharing part of her story with us is because you, your sister, your mother, your friend, your co-worker, your neighbor can be dealing with domestic violence.

Domestic Violence is not an addiction, it is not contagious but it is embarrassing and full of shame and can be deadly for the person that is in the situation. You can save a life today by letting someone know that no matter how bad it is or how much they love the person they are with, it is not safe for them and for their children.

Domestic violence don’t discriminate. It happens to rich people as well as poor, white, black, asian, latino it doesn’t matter, it affect us all. There is help, and there is hope. Edna has seen abusers that change, but they need to recognize first that they have a problem and they need to seek help. It is a process that can be lengthy and frustrating. Victims, Edna has been there; saw death closer than a lot of you hopefully never have to. Its not easy but there is help, but you have to give the first step and want to fix the situation.

Unfortunately she had to go though tragedy to be offered help. She has met thousands of women with stories similar to hers and worse, and they have come out of that situation and have started over and today they are successful. She has also met women that have said, "Its not that bad, and it will get better". that are no longer with us. She is here today because a seven year old, Angel, her Angel is no longer with her. Domestic Violence took him from her. She didn’t know anyone that could help, anyone that wanted to help. She wasn’t aware of all the programs and help available to help the domestic violence victims nationwide, but now she is and is sharing them here. If you need help, she here as well as thousands of women nationwide that are willing to help, that are willing to walk by your side during those difficult times, and be there for you after the storm has passed….Thank you for taking the time and allowing me to share my story. God Bless and keep you safe!!!

Tune into Blog Talk Radio's Word of Mom Show Thursday September 16 at 2pm EST to hear from Edca - and find out that you are not alone...
Please feel free to contact Edna anytime, she is available to support any programs or individuals, she is a guest speaker, there for interviews, and most importantly, to help and wants the help…
Edca Quinones
Nycconnexion@gmail.com
www.twitter.com/nycconnexion

KIBOOMU - Music Making our Kids Smarter!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 14:18:00 +0000

I am a singing mom! All my life, singing has been a large part of who I am and as a mom - I brought that to my children. Walking down the street and breaking into song was never unusual for me and they would join right in. Well, I am not alone! On Thursday July 29 at 2pm EST Wendy and Sherry, the founders of KIBOOMU join me on Blog Talk Radio to share their mission of making children smarter through music. KIBOOMU stands for Kids, Books & Multimedia, is their brainchild.

Wendy was the founder and owner of KIDZUP, an award winning children's music and media publishing company based in Montreal, Canada. In 2004 was named one of Canada's top 100 woman entrepreneurs! Wanting to expand, Wendy bought Tormont Publications and met Sherry in 2006. Sherry was the Children's Book Publisher at Readers Digest Canada and had been the Marketing Director at Pearson Education, the biggest educational publisher in the world. Can you see the writing on the wall! They were destined to collaborate. Sherry joined Wendy at Tormont and they quickly became known as the "New Tormont". Then, as life does, things changed rapidly!

In 2007 the CD market crashed, 2008 the biggest recession since the Great Depression hit and in 2009 Wendy moved to CA for her daughter Sara. Sherry became the President of KIDZUP/Tormont and then they sold the print side of the companies. Retaining the digital side of the company they wanted to use the years of experience they have to create fun educational products for children and in December of 2009 KIBOOMU Inc - their very own edu-tainment company began! There's is a story of new beginnings, hope, commitment and bold decisions and they are here to share them with us.

Join us and find out more about these fascinating women! Again - we will be on Blog Talk Radio on July 29, 2010 at 2pm EST and would love to hear from you so call us at 347 850 8994. Please feel free to email me at dori.s1bags@gmail.com, join my fan page on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.

Life is a Learning Curve!

noreply@blogger.com (Dori S1 Bags) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:15:00 +0000

Each day life brings us new challenges, new adventures, new disappointments and new discoveries, for life is a learning curve. Days come and go when all seems to go smoothly and we have a moment to forget the times when things were tough. Other days melt into weeks and nothing seems to go right. Friends die, friendships end, partners prove to be untrustworthy, and life's learning curve seems too hard to bear. Then how do we always seem able to weather the storm?

For me, I trust that God puts you where you are for a reason and I know that this too shall pass. If I learn the lesson, then what I went through is worth the strife. If I keep making the same mistakes, then I am turning a blind eye to the lesson and it defeats the purpose. All of us need to take the good and the bad and accept that nothing is ever easy and that sometimes, it is the struggle that makes it all worth while.

The biggest lessons I have learned with the events of the past month are - life is short so don't squander it! Friendship in business works - but be sure to have all your ducks in a row. Contracts exist for a reason and don't let your personal connection cloud your business judgement - get things in writing! When things go bad, you can feel sorry for yourself you a moment or two and then you have to let things go and move on with your head held high. Learn the lesson and move on - because if you stay trapped in the moment of realization and don't move forward - you are doomed to never learn.

I had a dear friend die at the beginning of the month and a partnership that I cherished end the middle of the month. On the other hand, my son came home after being away for a long time, my baby graduated from High School, I love and am loved, and the sun came out after the storm. No matter what we go through, we do manage to come out stronger and wiser in the end. Life is a learning curve - enjoy the lesson!