Expect Success!!

For The Summer-Lover in your Circle

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:01:00 +0000

Yesterday’s Post was dedicated to the Sweet-Tooth in your group. Today’s post is dedicated to the person/persons you know who are sun-worshipping, fresh fruit-eating, farmer’s market-shopping, warm weather lovers!

We have a huge selection of gourmet candles in fragrances that are sure to keep the fresh smells of summer going all year round. This includes our brand-new line of Orchard Candles. These gorgeous candles were unveiled this spring and have been a phenomenal success!

In addition to the Fresh Peach, pictured here, the Orchard Line also features Crisp Apple, Honeydew Melon, and Juicy Pear.

Regardless which you choose, you will be amazed at the fragrance! Each smells exactly like the real thing!

Some other top sellers of Summer-Time are listed below. To view the actual product, as well as the description, hold your “CTRL” Key and Right Click. A new window will open.

Regardless which fragrance you choose, for yourself or someone else, you will be delighted at the beautiful scent that lasts from the first light to the last flicker. You can also rest assured that you are burning (or giving) a candle made from natural ingredients, that will leave the air in your home clean, safe, and clear.

Happy Burning!

Until Next Time, Dream Large…

Calorie-Free Indulgences....For You or Someone Else

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:32:00 +0000

When choosing a candle for someone else, it is not always easy to know what fragrance they will enjoy. Of course, it is easy to ask what type of scents they like, but you can use what you know about them to make an educated guess.

For example, if they are the office “baker” who is always bringing in baked goods from home, it is probably safe to assume they will like a candle that provides that fresh-baked smell long after the cookies are gone. This is also true of the person/persons who is the first one to dig into those treats! A few scrumptious calorie-free choices might be:

ALMOND BISCOTTIBring home this Italian specialty and enjoy the scent of sweet almonds and vanilla as you imagine dunking them in your favorite after-dinner coffee!

BLUEBERRY MUFFIN

Freshly baked blueberry muffins hot out of the oven sure to get your taste buds going!

PASTRY SHOPPE

An incredible aroma that will have you thinking your home has been transformed into a pastry shoppe!

Of course, with over 90 unique, true-to-life scents, this is just a sample of the selection of sweet smells in our gourmet candle lines. For the full listing of all our products, please visit my online store at http://Everyday-Candles.com.

Tomorrow, I’ll introduce you to some more of my favs!

Until Next Time, Dream Large

Ditch the Generic Gift Card

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Will anyone remember what you gave them, or what they did with it?

Gift cards began as a simple way to buy a gift for the one or two people on your list that you did not know well, or for who were particularly difficult to shop. We had to actually put enough thought into the person to know their interests, and then go to that store to purchase the card. Not true anymore. Today, gift cards can be purchased for virtually any store from the mall to the grocery store. If you want a Barnes and Noble card, or a Victoria’s Secret card, you can purchase one right at the checkout line of Safeway. Further depersonalizing the gift, you can also purchase a Visa, MasterCard or Amex right alongside them.

While I understand that there are times when a gift card is appropriate, I find it sad that it has become the “norm” in gift giving. Rather than put time, thought, and energy into picking, or creating, a gift that someone will enjoy, we just rush through the grocery line and come out the other end with a handy catch-all gift card. While most of us like to pick out our own gifts some of the time, it is a nice surprise to open an actual item. Perhaps it is something we love, but would never buy for ourselves, even with the gift card. Perhaps it is something given to us that will trigger a memory of the giver every time we use it or look at it. Many of us end up using those cards on impulse purchases or necessities, rather than something we truly want. I am even guilty of being caught at the last minute without a gift for someone, grabbed the unused card, and re-gifted it. I am certain that is not the reason it was given to me.

My last “gripe” about gift cards is that we do not always want someone to know exactly how much we spent (or did not spend) on them. With a gift card, there is no sale price, no special deal, no discount. We all know exactly how much was spent. Sometimes that is acceptable; sometimes it is not.

Next time you need a simple gift, whether for business associates or clients, acquaintances, for the hostess, friends, or family, try something more personal. The personal thought will mean a lot to the recipient.

Gourmet candles are a fantastic and personal way to show your appreciation for everyone on your list. Did you know that 86% of all people burn scented candles in their home, and that number is going up. Mia Bella Gourmet Candles can be ordered online and shipped to you, or to the recipient. They are available in over 90 true-to-life fragrances, including several different product lines, including our Signature Line, our brand new Orchard Line, and our ever-popular Spa Line.

We even have Bakery Pies and Cinna-buns, which come in their own tins for burning, and smell just like the real thing--without the calories!!

Our candles are made with a proprietary vegetable wax, and they contain no lead, zinc, or other toxins. They are natural, clean burning, eco-friendly, and are incredibly long lasting. The scent lasts from the first light to the last flicker and when the candle is done, all that is left is a clean, empty jar.

We even take the guesswork out of choosing a fragrance. We have our most popular scents by season, which keeps it simple when buying for someone else. To simplify it even further, you can choose to purchase the “Fragrance of the Month” which is always one of our top sellers.

So the next time you reach for that Gift Card as you are running through the grocery store, stop and ask yourself if that is what you really want to give, or is it simply the easier thing to do? Ordering a candle online takes only a few minutes and is sure to be remembered long after the gift card is used on who-knows-what. In fact, I keep several jars in various fragrances on hand just for those purposes. Tie a nice ribbon around it, and you do not even need a gift bag!

Tune in tomorrow as I highlight more of our most popular products and fragrances--for everyone on your list!!

Until Next Time, Dream Large....

Expect Success!!: It's official - I am the parent of an "adult"

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 13:55:00 +0000

Expect Success!!: It's official - I am the parent of an "adult": "Happy 18 Tee! Yeah, it's sideways. Duh.... They're Everywhere!!! I couldn't resist I am that mom who always laughed cynically w..."

It's official - I am the parent of an "adult"

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Happy 18 Tee!


Yeah, it's sideways. Duh....


They're Everywhere!!!

I couldn't resist

I am that mom who always laughed cynically when someone (everyone) would say, "They grow up so fast!" Really? That has not been my experience. Perhaps when they were babies, it did seem that time flew by, but as they got older, and especially throughout the teenage years, I must admit that time seemed to come to a stand-still. Please don't get me wrong--my kids are the world to me. But in all fairness, while I probably am not going to get the oh-so-coveted Mother of the Year Award, neither of my kids are going to be receiving the Teenager of the Year Award either.

But those are stories for another day....or several other days. Let's just say that I can vouch for the saying that "Payback is a Bitch!" Certainly gives my parents a good laugh watching me go through these times with my own kids.

Anyway, so while I never thought time flew by, it really was shocking to wake up last Sunday and realize that I am now the parent of an adult. It just does not seem possible--for her, or for me. Of course, her first official act as an adult was to go register to vote. YAY! One of the requirements for continuing to live at home after 18 is to vote. That is simply not optional. Especially not with the direction this country is headed.

There are also other requirements for living at home. First, she must be moving forward in her life. This means a paying job, in addition to working on her apprenticeship at the tattoo parlor. She also has to enroll in school. She wants to learn pastry art (the correct term evades me.) So she has to be working toward that goal as well. While I do not mind the piercing and tattooing as her Plan B, she does need to have a Plan A for her life. While tattooing might be great at 18, 19, 20.....she must stay focused on long-term goals.

I have seen too many of her older friends just stop moving after high school. I do not want her to be one of those adults. It still strikes me as odd, and sad, that this new generation seems to have lost that drive and determination that I remember having as a young adult. However, I am committed to helping overcome these obstacles, as long as she is committed to working toward being a productive and responsible adult.

The truth is, I don't know what I would do if she left home right now. Maybe it's because I'm a control freak and cannot imagine not being there to help her manage her life. Maybe it's because, after being a single mom for so long, I am overly attached to my kids. Maybe it's because I really enjoy spending time with Taylor (most of the time....) But most likely, it's a combination of all these, and more.

All I know for sure, is that I am proud to be her mother and her friend. She was a beautiful baby and is now a beautiful young woman. And I am older than dirt! haha


Yes, she is an adult! Not grown up, but an adult! ;)

Until Next Time, Dream Large....

A New Blogging Challenge Starts Today!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 21:59:00 +0000

After I finished (barely) the June Blogging Challenge, I really slacked off keeping up with my blog. Who knows why, since I absolutely love blogging, but I did. So when I learned from a friend, Cindy Clemens, of My Business Marketing Mentor, last night about a new challenge, I knew I better sign myself up! Of course, in my mind, I was trying to tell myself that I wasn't ready for another challenge, and that I had made a personal commitment to be more consistent with my blogging, but the truth is, I have been saying that for weeks now and it hasn't happened yet, so this is a great way to keep myself accountable.

It is also an excellent way to find new blogs to follow, people to network with, and friends to make, as well as learn some useful tips and tricks about blogging, business, and life. In addition to that, it also keeps me up-to-date with my Twitter posts--another item that has been on hiatus this month. Which is really not smart, especially when I created a new Twitter account right before I slacked off.

If you have ever considered joining a Blogging Challenge, I highly recommend giving this a try. What do you have to lose? Each post only needs to be 100 words, and you simply write 31 posts during the month of August, tweet them to the Blog Challenge list, and Voila! You've completed a blog challenge!!

If you decide to join, let me know so that we can support one another as it is harder than you would think to post something new every day, and by the end of the month, it's a race just to get it done!! I hope some of you will accept the challenge and join me!

Of course, I'll be doing some serious brain-storming to come up with new and interesting things to talk about....if anyone has a topic they'd like me to write on, please let me know!! I'm up for any and all ideas!

Until Next Time, Dream Large.....

Feeling The Love....and Paying it Forward!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:12:00 +0000


"Versatile" sounds so much nicer than "Random & Unpredictable!"

Wow, I have to say that as much slacking as I have been doing this month, I was shocked to discover that I was awarded "The Versatile Blogger Award" not once, but twice this week!! Now, that either means that people prefer when I write nothing (haha) or that you all appreciate my random ramblings about whatever is running through my mind....I prefer to believe it's the latter!

The first to honor me with this award were Carol and Stacy from Intentional Conscious Parenting, where two friends have come together to produce an incredible blog about parenting...providing insight and thoughtful ideas on connecting with our kids, and other fantastic stuff! Thank you Carol and Stacy!!!

The second to pass this fantastic award to me was Jinnia from The Thankfulness Continues. Jinnia's blog, like my own, has a little of "something for everyone!" Whether talking about family, business, blogging, etc....she really does provide real-life support and information on a variety of subjects!! Thank you, Jinnia, for the award!!

I hope to be able to continue writing about subjects that you will find interesting, intriguing, funny, and/or useful and entertaining!

Now on to the "requirements" of receiving this award:

In order to receive the award fully, I must

1) Thank the person who gave me the award. Thanks again to Carol, Stacy, and Jinnia!!
2) Share seven things about myself.
3) Nominate 15 newly discovered blogs, and let the nominees know about the award.

Seven things you may not know about me:

1. I cannot draw a stick figure, but I absolutely love painting the rooms in my house, especially using various faux-painting techniques. I am working my way through my house one room at a time, and when I'm done, I'll probably start over.

2. I am scared of heights

3. I didn't know how to swim (more than to save my life) until I was 27 and moved to Southern Cal and started surfing. Even more surprising, I actually became quite a decent surfer!

4. Although I consider myself to be fairly conservative, I have 7 tattoos....and I love them all!

5. I moved in with my husband after only 5 months --Thank God it worked because to do that, the kids and I had to move to Arizona.

6. My idea of "window shopping" is a trip to Home Depot for....windows!

7. I am a recovered alcoholic and have been sober almost 4 years.

Wow...that was hard! Because I write such a versatile blog (haha) I don't have a lot of "personal" things that I wouldn't normally write about. But there ya go!

Now, on to the 15 blogs that I am nominating the Versatile Blogger Award to:

1. http://clawsbyronda.blogspot.com/

2. http://preppylittledress.blogspot.com/

3. http://thewritemomforthejob.blogspot.com/

4. http://www.2muchtestosterone.blogspot.com/

5. http://marichu-wwwbalancingact.blogspot.com/

6. http://tkthor.blogspot.com/

7. http://siren.org/

8. http://danishel.blogspot.com/

9. http://gravelandrust.blogspot.com/

10. http://areebaathome.blogspot.com/

11. http://kelleysbreakroom.blogspot.com/

12. http://proudmomx2.blogspot.com/

13. http://manicmommy.blogspot.com

14. http://lifeinmypjs.blogspot.com/

15. http://lifewithoutwhimsy.blogspot.com/

WOW!! That was far harder than I thought it would be!!! There are so many fantastic blogs that I frequent, as well as thousands of others that I should!! Narrowing it down to 15 was no easy feat!

Again, I would like to thank the people who gave me the award, and to all of you who read my blog and especially those of you who comment and provide feedback! It really helps to know what is working and what is not. Thank you also to the authors of the blogs I haunt. I am always entertained, enlightened, educated, and touched by your stories, pictures, experiences, and ideas.

Until Next Time....Dream Large!

The Importance of Gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 22:51:00 +0000

We all have those days when nothing seems to be going right, the bills seem larger than the income, energy is low, and we find ourselves caught in a funk that we cannot shake. Face it, life can be trying at times, even for the happiest and most positive people out there. The question is, "What do we do to pull ourselves out of our slump and find our footing?"

I find that writing a list of all the things in my life I am grateful for really turns my attitude around. Sure, it won't fix the "problem" at hand, but it helps me to remember how truly lucky and blessed I am. This doesn't need to be, and probably should not be, a complicated process. Just grab a notebook, or the back of an envelope if that is all that you have handy, and write down the things in your life that you are grateful for. Don't even think about it. Just write it down.

For fun, I will do my quick list right now....

My puppies
My flowers in the back yard
My friends
My husband
The dishes are done
I know what I am making for dinner, and I don't have to go to the store to get anything
We are out of our excessive heat warning for a day
The great book I am reading
I don't have any commitments today
I don't have to get up and go to work because I work from home
Taking today off will give me the energy to be fired up tomorrow

So, while some of these things may seem trivial....it was quick, simple, and painless. Of course, I could continue on and on and on...but you get the point. Sometimes all it takes is writing down 5 or 10 or even 15 things you are truly grateful for, even just in this moment, to make a difference in your outlook.

Next time you are feeling a little more like Eyeore than Tigger, put the bounce back in your step with a quick Gratitude List and watch that negative attitude fade away!

Until Next Time, Live in Gratitude....

A Day in Jerome, AZ

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:02:00 +0000

Hello All & Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend!! Russell and I decided to go to Jerome, AZ Saturday to get out of the heat and do some shopping. If you are ever in Arizona, Jerome is a must-see destination!! Many say it is haunted and that is a huge draw for a lot of people. Russell and I, however, absolutely love walking the town, visiting the shops, and having a nice lunch.

Jerome is home to many artists, and if you are ever looking for an original piece of artwork or one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing, etc., and love meeting the artist, this is the place to go!

We also made reservations to stay at The Surgeon's House the first Saturday of October for Art Walk. It's an amazing event that occurs the first Saturday of every month, and is incredible!! We have to wait until October because Andrea, the owner of The Surgeon's House was booked until then. And we insist on staying with her when we are there because her home and her property are only outdone by Andrea herself.

Here are some pics from our day in Jerome. Trust me when I say they do not do the town justice, but it's what I've got....Enjoy!!!

That's it for now! In October, I will add some more pics, and perhaps better descriptions....but hope you enjoyed what I had!

What's your "little-known" hot-spot??

Crazy Crazy Life & Other Musings from my week

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:48:00 +0000

Happy Thursday Everyone!

First, I would like to apologize for being non-existent this week. I would love to have a really great reason for not posting anything new since the 4th of July, but the truth is that I had one of those weeks where life just got away from me.

My kids went to Oregon to see their grandparents, but for some reason, their teenage drama seemed to not only follow them there, but somehow managed to elevate and affect me here as well. So much for my Independence Day, but that's the life of a parent.

In addition to the kids, I also had an emergency medical issue with Peaches, my awesome orange cat. He was acting strange on Thursday, and when he was still not "right" on Friday, I took him to the vet. He had developed crystals in his bladder and could not pee. Simple enough, right?? NOT! He has been in the hospital for 6 days now, and we are keeping our fingers crossed and praying that he will pull through. We had to make a painful decision to give him through tomorrow to recover....In my mind, I know that he is a cat; in my heart, he is so much more. We have been spending as much time with him as we can, but it is so hard because outside of this issue, and the catheters and fluid lines, he is still his sweet and funny self. From his attitude, you wouldn't even know he was sick.

Here he is before they had to add the gigantic cone on his head because he kept pulling out his catheter, and he'd chewed through his fluid line in his leg....but he let me take his picture. He looks thrilled huh?

So, this is my "excuse" for not posting this week. Hopefully, I'll get back on board and back to my schedule!
I have lots of stuff to write about in the next week--from Networking events to Biz Tips to a photographic journey through Jerome, Arizona!

STAY TUNED!!

Independence Day--Remember what it stands for!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 03:20:00 +0000

My family got up at 4:00 am to take the kids to the airport. They are visiting my parents in Oregon for a couple of weeks, and, would you call me a terrible mother if I said I barely kicked them to the curb before my husband and I hustled back home?! If so, that's cool.....I only get away from my kids one time a year, and the older they get, the more of a break it becomes!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: "Give me diapers anyday--Teenagers are far more work than potty training!!"

The fact that they left on the 4th of July gives a whole new meaning to Independence Day for me this year!! Now, you might think we'd be out doing something exciting with our free time, but we have actually chosen to spend a quiet day at home, doing absolutely nothing!

We will climb up on the roof later on to watch the firework display that is put on by Luke Air Force Base, which is right across the street. How appropriate to be celebrating Independence Day watching the show put on by the men and women in this country who protect our freedoms?!

I am honored to be able to watch these fighter jets every day from my home.

I decided to post a few notable quotes and poems about Independence Day that I appreciate. I hope you like them too. As you are out watching the fireworks and BBQ'ing with family and friends, please take a moment to remember the meaning of this day!

"There are those, I know, who will say that the liberation of humanity, the freedom of man and mind, is nothing but a dream. They are right. It is the American dream." ~~ Archibald MacLeish

"My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy!" ~~ Thomas Jefferson

"Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it." ~~ Mark Twain

"In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved." ~~ Franklin D. Roosevelt

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." ~~ Benjamin Franklin

and my personal favorite:

"Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it."

~~ Mark Twain

I'll end this post with a poem I found that I think is poignant and beautiful, yet simple:

The American Boy

By Author Unknown

SON:
Father, look up, and see that flag!
How gracefully it flies!
Those pretty stripes, they seem to be
A rainbow in the skies.

FATHER:
It is your country's flag, my boy,
And proudly drinks the light,
O'er ocean's wave, in foreign climes,
A symbol of our might.

SON:
Father, what fearful noise is that,
Now thundering in the clouds?
Why do they, cheering, wave their hat,
And rush along in crowds?

FATHER:
It is the voice of cannonry,
The glad shouts of the free;
This is a day of memory,
'Tis FREEDOM'S JUBILEE!

SON:
I wish that I was now a man,
I'd free my country too,
And cheer as loudly as the rest;
But, father, why don't you?

FATHER:
I'm getting old and weak; but still
My heart is big with joy;
I've witnessed many a day like this,
Shout you aloud, my boy!

SON:
HURRAH, FOR FREEDOM'S JUBILEE,
God bless our native land!
And may I live to hold the boon
Of freedom in my hand.

FATHER:
Well done, my boy, grow up, and love
The land that gave you birth,—
A land where Freedom loves to dwell,—
A paradise on earth.

Friday Featured Biz presents "Savings Corner"

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:32:00 +0000

Friday Featured Biz

This week completely got away from me and I found myself scrambling last night to get my featured biz lined up for today. Thankfully, Tina from Savings Corner, came through for me. So Thank You Tina!!

Tina is one of those women I admire...she really knows how to save money using coupons, discount codes and sales. While I LOVE a good sale, I am really pretty lazy with coupons. However, Savings Corner really gives me no excuse not to make a better effort. Everything is laid out so you can easily find what you are looking for--from coupons to contests to rebates and sales...in every category imaginable! How simple to pop by her site, check for a discount code or coupon, and be informed before you shop!!!

Here is what Tina has to say about her business:

"My name is Tina, aka "The Coupon Lady" and I am the Owner/Author of Savings Corner (http://www.savingscorner.org), a website designed to share with families the power of coupons. In today's economy, coupons matched up with sales from major retail stores can make a strong impact on your budget and overall quality of life. How? Obviously, coupons save you money (and I mean TONS of money ... not just face value!) and that affects your budget. And in turn, the savings can aid in the quality of your life ... having more money to purchase the necessities in life (and the "wants"!) and being able to save gives your family a sense of financial security. Now that is power!

Savings Corner will provide you with the tools to "arm yourself" for shopping success by providing you with coupon and sales match ups for major retail stores every week, links to printable coupons, links to e-coupons, freebies and samples. But most of all, I equip families with the knowledge and information needed to shop with confidence!

Savings Corner and other small businesses (whether on-line or your mom and pops local grocery store down the road) depend on the encouragment and faithful support of others. For me, I show support for other coupon savings websites by sharing deals and linking back to their website, encouraging the author of other websites by leaving uplifting and encouraging comments and by offering my help and support whenever I can. Also, getting to know your local owners of small businesses and developing that "personal" relationship is very important for maintaining a sense of loyalty. I believe the way to a successful business is to treat others the way you want them to treat you; respecting them as a person and as a small business owner with honesty and integrity.

I would love for you to visit my website, take a look around and become a follower. With Savings Corner, you will learn how to "Buy more. Save more. Spend Less!"

Stop by and show your support for Tina! She is providing a truly incredible and time-saving service that even people like me can use!! Don't go shopping before you check with Tina to see if she has a discount you can use!!

You can connect with her on Twitter and Facebook as well!!

http://www.twitter.com/savingscorner
http://facebook.com/savingscorner

YES! I finished the 30-Day Blog Challenge!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:41:00 +0000

Okay, so this is the final post of the 30-Day Blog Challenge!! I heard about the challenge after only one week of blogging...and I thought, "hey! I can write 30 blogs in 30 days..." So I decided to sign up.

Let me tell you (or perhaps you already know), this is not as easy as it sounds. I originally started my blog as a way to talk introduce people to my products and my business opportunity. I quickly found, however, that no one, myself included, wants to read a blog that is completely devoted to a home business--or any other single topic.

I decided instead to write about my life and all the wonderful, frustrating, crazy, awesome people, places, and things that make up who I am. There is always something going on around here that I can turn into a funny, useful, or meaningful story.

I also started a new feature for my blog called, "Friday Featured Biz" where I feature one small business owner each Friday on my blog. Through my networking events, I have met the most incredible and dynamic people and have taken my appreciation of small business to a whole new level. This has been a great feature for me, and I hope, as I continue to blog, my followers will grow and these businesses will get some new clients through me.

Today I found myself 3 posts behind on the Challenge, and almost threw in the towel. Another friend messaged me on Facebook and encouraged me to finish the Challenge. I decided that she was right--how silly to go this far just to give up at the last minute. So, here I am, pounding out this final post so I can get it sent out and can run out the door to another Networking Event!!!

With that, I will say goodnight! My goal is to continue writing new articles 4 times per week, so you will see me either tomorrow or Friday for sure! I have another fabulous small business to feature on Friday, so if I don't see you before, I hope to see you then!!

Until Next Time....

Toxic Relationships

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:01:00 +0000

Toxic Relationships. We all have them. Whether it is a family member, partner, co-worker, or friend--we all have relationships that bring us down. The question is "What to do about it?" Of course, the answer is not as simple as the question. A spouse or family member needs to be approached differently than a friend or co-worker.

The reason I am writing about this is that yesterday I had to make a painful, yet necessary, decision to walk away from what started out as an incredible friendship, but ended up being toxic to me. It was such a hard thing to do, but after a week of feeling sick to my stomach and worrying about it, I had to choose what was best for me. I would like to say it didn't get ugly, but the truth is it was not pleasant. It is a lot like getting a divorce--if we could do it happily and without upset, why would we have to do it at all? So, while it was not nasty, it was very uncomfortable.

I took the day to let myself grieve the loss of what was once such a close friendship, and then got up today and moved forward. I am a firm believer that God brings people into our lives at specific times for a reason. And when that reason has resolved, there is not always anything else holding the relationship together, except time. And time isn't always enough. Things had started going wrong in this friendship a long time ago, and it was not until very recently I realized that the friendship was adding more stress, tension, and drama than it was worth.

I am thankful for the awesome gifts I received as a result of the relationship, and am hopeful that one day, we will both be able to look past the bad times and be friendly. But, whether that happens or doesn't happen, is out of my hands right now. It is time to concentrate on the relationships that are working in my life today. And be grateful for the wonderful things God has planned for me.

Until Next Time....

Selling Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 04:00:00 +0000

Why did I become involved with Scent-Sations? The first reason is because I love home fragrance, followed quickly by my (completely innocent) fascination with fire. So, when I ran across the creator of the "highest performing candles on the market" who also happened to offer one of the best compensation plans I had ever seen, I knew it was worth checking out.

I have never been in the sales industry and certainly never in any type of direct sales, so I wasn't sure I could cut it. After really thinking about it, however, I came to realize that I have been "selling" all my life--just not in the traditional sense of the word. Truth be told, there isn't much that is traditional about me anyway, so when I started thinking outside the box, I decided that I am, in fact, a great salesperson!

Every job I have ever had, I got because of my ability to "sell" myself to the company. Sure there were people more qualified than I was, but I sold my unique skills--the ones that made me stand out from the pack. More often than not, that is the main reason I was hired. Sure, I have the college education and the experience to be able to get an interview, but it was how I handled myself at the interview that landed me the position. (The fact that I was a single mom with 2 kids who counted on me to "bring home the bacon" was an added incentive!)

As a mother, I have to "sell" ideas to the kids all the time. I have to take an activity that they would not normally go for, and twist it around enough to make it sound enticing to them.

I could go on and on....but you get the idea. The fact is, we are all salespeople, when we choose to be. We use our passion and our powers of persuasion to get others to follow our lead.

For me, the passion is the most important factor in any type of "sales" whether it be personal or professional. If you do not truly believe in what you are selling, no one else will either.

No matter who you are, where you come from, or where you want to go, find your passion. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Look in the mirror and figure out what it is that makes you unique. What can you offer that others don't have?

Today, I am working hard to build not only my business, but helping others do the same. Every one of us has the ability to go out and create our dream life. It can be difficult to get past the obstacles we have placed in our way, but every challenge presents a chance to grow and to learn. All we can do is keep putting one foot in front of the other....and if we are persistent in our pursuit, we will get there.

What is holding you back from achieving your dreams?

At Home Spa Recipe -- Brown Sugar Body Scrub

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 01:21:00 +0000

No Need for an expensive trip to the spa with this fabulous and simple body scrub!!

Create a Spa in Your Home

I went to a Culinary Meetup Group on Sunday, and the theme this month was "Spa at Home." Each woman created a home-made spa recipe to share. I went with my stand-by: Brown Sugar Body Scrub. It is incredibly easy to make and is versatile, depending on what ingredients you have on hand. And did I mention that it is FABULOUS!!

This is a recipe that I created myself after spending $15 on a store-bought scrub. After reading the ingredients, I figure their profit margin had to be around 1000%, and rather than give anyone that kind of money again, I'd recreate the recipe myself. I have been using it for over a year now, and still love it!

Here goes:

Brown Sugar

Excellent to exfoliate dry skin from head to toe.
Sugar scrubs also tightens pores and adds moisture to the skin leaving it smooth and soft.
Sugar contains glycolic acid that works to protect and moisture the skin and help the body maintain a natural balance.

Honey

Incredible antiseptic and is rich in antioxidants and flavanoids
Cleopatra as an anti-aging remedy.
Promotes healing of cuts and abrasions.
Because it is a humectant, it attracts and maintains moisture balance in the skin, without being oily.

Coconut Oil

Safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin.
Delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin which normally become prominent with age.
Helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, and other skin conditions.

Almond Oil

Improves complexion and retains glow
Moisturizes deeply
Soothes skin irritation and inflammation
Delays the again process
Lightens dark under-eye circles
Relieves dry, itchy skin
Cures chapped lips and body rashes

If you do not have Almond Oil, you can substitute Olive Oil, which is also an excellent moisturizer. Secret Ingredient: I love the smell of vanilla, and sometimes will put just a dash of pure vanilla in the mix!

I do not have the amounts written down anywhere. Start with one cup of brown sugar and then add equal amounts of honey, coconut oil, and almond oil. Mix it with your fingers (they'll thank you for the scrub!) and add additional ingredients until you get the consistency of cookie dough (?)...I can't think of a good comparison for the consistency. You want it to be wet enough to spread evenly, yet solid enough to scoop out of the bowl.

I use the scrub 2 - 3 times a week and this amount should last about that long. If you plan on keeping it longer, I suggest keeping it an airtight container in the fridge. I use the scrub right before I am done showering and apply it in a circular motion with your hand, a washcloth or a loofah. It is great to use from head to toe--I even use it on my face!

Let it sit for a minute or two so your skin can absorb it, and then rinse....No Need for Additional Moisturizer!!

I love home-spa recipes....

What is your favorite???

Another Exciting Episode of "Life With Teens"

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 03:37:00 +0000

I remember the days, a few years ago, when my kids still had brains. Those precious moments when, in their need to be self-sufficient, they would think for themselves. They would do for themselves. They wanted to prove how big they were, so they would actually get off their butts just to show me that they could _________ (insert random chore) on their own--without my help. I remember actually being irritated by their independence at times. (WHAT?!)

Flash-Forward: My kids have lost their brains, their self-sufficiency, and really, most of their other desirable qualities as well.

This is what I would like to see a little more of:

Sunday is house cleaning day. Sunday has always been house cleaning day. It's a family tradition. Sunday is typically the day when I wake up way too early, come downstairs, and realize that, DAMMIT, my house is a complete disaster again! Don't get me wrong--we get chores done daily, but for some reason, by Sunday, it looks like we've never picked up a thing around here!

I will admit that I am ~~a total bitch~~ not always pleasant as I ~~storm up the stairs screaming my kids' names~~ wake the kids up to get started. However, in my defense, I usually wait until about 10:00 to get them up, and by that time, I've had at least 4 good hours to assess the damage around here and work up an attitude.

Or maybe I get an attitude because I know what comes next. The inevitable question. The one question that makes me really go crazy.....

"What are we supposed to do?"

REALLY?! We have been cleaning house on Sunday for as long as I can remember, and they've been an active part of helping to clean since they were in preschool. We've lived in this particular home for five years.....and you don't know what to do?!

I can look around and see 100 things that need to be done, without even blinking. And you don't know what to do?!

This is the point when I go from irritated to stark-raving-mad lunatic! I know, I know....there are things I can do to keep it from getting to this point with them. I could write it all out, for instance. But WHY?! These are the same kids who knew exactly what to do when they were 6 and 7. How can they have forgotten?!

I keep waiting for my kids to come back around to the days when they were old enough to help and young enough to want to help. To be thinkers, movers, doers! Yes, the day when I realize my years of ~~nagging, screaming, begging, and threatening~~ hard work have finally paid off.....

And as I am daydreaming about this wonderful time, when the brain cells awaken from assumed death, my husband yells from the kitchen, "Honey, where's the mustard?"

HOLY CRAP! In the same place it's been for 5 years now......

If my family is called upon to "save the world" I come to the only logical conclusion there is:

WE ARE DOOMED!!!

Friday Featured Biz! Next Level Consulting & Virtual Ass't Services

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:40:00 +0000

It's Friday!!! Which means it's time for this week's Friday's Featured Biz!

This week, I am honored to introduce you to another awesome lady I have become friends with through this wonderful world of Social Media! I am always amazed at the people I have "met" through Facebook, MySpace, (yes, I have had a MySpace account--I have teenagers--it's a must!) and now Blogging. The internet really does make the world a much smaller place, and open us up to people, places, & things we might not otherwise have a chance to experience.

This week, I would like to introduce Lisa Rodriguez with Next Level Consulting & Virtual Assistant Services. Not only does she provide Small Biz Consulting Services, but her blog is filled with awesome tips, tricks, and links!

This is what Lisa had to say:

Next Level Consulting & Virtual Assistant Services

"Next Level Consulting & Virtual Assistance is a small business consulting and virtual assistance firm that specializes in helping coaches, consultants, speakers and other online entreprenuers create productive businesses, while maximizing their internet presence and revenues. Collectively our background spans over 24 years as both office and virtual professionals providing administrative and business support. Our team members are willing to show initiative and play more of a “partner” role vs. simply taking care of specific tasks.

I choose small/online-based businesses as my niche market because I firmly believe this market in particular is poised for the most growth in the next five years. The current state of the economy and a shaky job market has been a catalyst for more and more of the "downsized" to take a risk and pursue their dream of working from home. It offers flexibility, especially for those with families and the earning potential is not limited by your perceived value at a large firm. Trends are emerging that indicate more and more people are on the internet, not in front of their television sets - and they are all searching for ways to create income. And they also all have the same issue in common - they need support in their efforts. I really enjoy partnering with entrepreneurs to help them achieve success with their businesses.

I also believe supporting other home-based business owners - not just my clients. I offer business promotion on both my website, as well as my newsletter free of charge. I love how social media and networking opens opportunities you might otherwise not have had. Watching that happen for others is what makes my "job" so rewarding."

Be sure to check out Lisa's Blog, and tell her Happy Birthday while you are there--her birthday was yesterday, June 24, which I just discovered. Also, make sure you join her Facebook Fan Page! She provides such awesome information, you won't want to miss a thing!

If you are looking for some great biz tips or if you are in need of a Virtual Assistant (aren't we all sometimes???) or Consulting, consider talking to Lisa and finding out how she can help you grow your business, manage your time, and de-stress your life!

Thank you, Lisa, for this awesome post, for the service you provide, and for being a part of Friday Featured Biz!

Please remember to Support the Small Business Owners in your community and online!

A Parent's Prayer for their Teen

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 03:10:00 +0000

A Parent's Prayer for their Teen
--written by JGrimes and reprinted here with her permission. For that I am grateful...this is a beautiful prayer and well worth reading, reading, reading....

Dear God, I need to talk to you for a minute about these kids you gave me. First of all, let me make this clear. I adore them. They amaze me, a million different times throughout each day. They are clearly your creation and not my own. And for this, I am thankful. I could have never come up with something this wonderful, even if you had asked me to write out what I had in mind on paper before they were born. But, I want you to know that I am scared. The world looks to me, as their parent, to teach them and protect them, raising them to be successful adults. I wonder why, then, must the world work against me on every step? As a little girl, my precious daughter – well, actually, she is Your precious daughter – happily skipped through her day, treasuring each moment and believing anything was possible. But somewhere along the way to being a teenager, she lost her joy. Now, her days are filled with paralyzing self doubt and deceptive invitations to the path of acceptance. My adorable son, who once started each day by holding my face in his hands just to tell me he loved me, can no longer look me in the eye. He tries to hide behind walls built over time, convinced that I will never understand him. But I see through to his breaking heart, and mine breaks right along with his. It always has. Always will. These are your children. And they are perfect. How can I get them to see that? How can I protect them from the false expectations of their peers, who are all struggling to find their way just the same? How can I prove to them that they were designed to stand out, rather than to fit in? Sometimes, I watch them sleeping and this is my silent prayer for them: Hold them in your arms. Always. Reveal yourself to them often, proving that they are never alone. Help them to be strong enough to make a difference; to change the lives of others rather than changing who they are to fit in. Make their paths straight before them, just as you promised to do, and then give them the strength to follow. The decisions they make today can alter the path of the rest of their lives. Please help them to better understand this, and protect them when the time arrives to make those choices. Show them that the rules we have in place are to protect them; not to prevent them from having fun, but rather to keep them from crossing lines into adulthood long before they are ready. Help them understand that once you cross those lines, there is no going back to being a kid. Help them never to doubt you, especially when teachers and others cause them to question their beliefs. How can they ever find their true value if they believe they were an accident or grew from the ground or from monkeys of some sort? Their very existence proves that You are real, so please comfort them and give them your answers long before they need them. I pray these same things for their future spouses and children. Protect their future and create it in a way that brings them all closer together and to you in the end. And God, please keep whispering these things to them until they are ready for me to tell them face to face. Because Lord, I adore my teens, and am so thankful you chose me to be their parent. Give me what I need to do the job you asked of me, and hold me when I’m scared. I never want to let either of you down. In Jesus Name, Amen

"You want to do WHAT?!" Letting Our Children Grow Up...

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 16:57:00 +0000

When my daughter, Taylor, (18 next month) was in kindergarten, it was already clear that she was going to be one of those kids who would create her own path in this world. Her kindergarten teacher called me to a meeting and said, "I have been teaching 5-year-old kids for more than 20 years, and I have never seen anyone do...." Yes, that is when I knew Taylor would be her own person No Matter What!!

Being an artistic, creative, outgoing, outspoken girl, she has gone through a complete cycle of career ideas--all if which she would be perfect for:

When she was going through her pink, blue, purple hair stage, she wanted to be a Hairstylist.

When she was going through her Raccoon Eye make-up days, she thought a Makeup Artist might be "it."

Then she discovered the joy of photography, and with her artistic eye, she would have been good at it. But then she realized she might have to take pictures of something other than herself!

When she went through her experimenting with drugs phase (yes, it happens.....) and went through a rehab program, she thought perhaps that was her calling (although truth be told, 8 years of college might have been a little more than she could swallow!)

She took a culinary class in high school and set about immediately looking into culinary schools. At this phase, she actually applied and was accepted into a fantastic culinary arts school!

And then, she realized that she didn't really like cooking--she liked baking and designing, so we looked into pastry arts schools, which, again, is a great fit for her!

Flash Forward to Present Day!!!

Taylor comes home last week, and being frustrated with her current job where she is not getting enough hours to support her shopping habit, she announces to me:

"MOM, I AM GOING TO BE A PIERCER!!"

Okay, so I have to tell you....while this may not be the career path I would have chosen for my little 5-year old girl, I told her to look into what she needed to do to make it happen! The amazing thing?? She did it! She went online to research, she made phone calls, she talked to shop owners--she actually did the work! Now, this says a lot about her dedication to this line of work. So....

We went together to a new tattoo shop that opened less than a mile away, and talked to the owner. We'd been in his shop several times and he is a nice guy. You might not guess that by looking at him, but he is. He does not do drugs, he does not drink, he has never smoked a cigarette, and he is the father of a teenage daughter. He understands my concerns and I trust that he will take care of her....and that says a lot!

She started working there last week, and she loves it! She has an outlet for her creative side and she is learning--not just about piercing, but about business and customer service and health issues. Kevin (the owner) is preparing her for her future. He insists that she learn the business inside-out--not just how to poke holes in people!! haha

She gets up in the morning, gets her chores done, and is excited to go to work!! She has a plan...she wants to finish this apprenticeship and then work part-time while she goes back to college for pastry arts. This career choice will allow her to earn enough money to pay for college and possibly, one day, move out of my house!

Yes, I always knew my daughter was not cut out for the traditional career path, but I could not be more proud of her! She has found her passion and is now doing what it takes to Achieve Her Dreams!

As Moms, we always say "we just want our kids to be happy!" Well, what I see is a happy little girl morphing into a happy young lady!

And that is enough for me!!

Now my son is another story all together.....

Until Next Time...

Who Inspires You and Keeps You Motivated?

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:23:00 +0000

No matter who you are, what you do, or where you are in your life, there is someone out there who inspires you to keep moving forward....Who is that someone? Any why?

Today, more than ever, we are inundated by Motivational Speakers, Books, CDs, DVDs, Seminars, etc...and it can be overwhelming! I would like to know who it is that is keeping you moving forward in your life, and helping you to be the best you can be!

Let's get the discussion going--Leave a comment in here with the top person/persons on your list that you are currently listening to or getting advice from. Be as specific as possible in case someone else wants to pick up a book or CD by your favorite Motivator!

I understand that God (however you may refer to God) and our families are generally always our biggest motivators to improve our lives, so let's just make that a given. Let's focus on those outside influences we rely on!!

My list is pretty big, so I am going to list only the resources I am currently utilizing:

********************************************

Zig Ziglar's "Setting Goals" which is an amazing set of CD's that are easy to listen to and easy to follow. Zig is always an inspiration!!

Larry Wingett's "Shut Up, Stop Whining, & Get a Life! A kick-butt approach to a Better Life." I absolutely love the way he just says it like it is. He talks about taking responsibility for your life and then taking action to create the life you want. I highly recommend this book!! I plan on working my way through all his stuff!

Nightingale-Conant 50th Anniversary Collection, which is a 12-CD set of blips from the best of the best in the Nightingale Group. Love it! Perfect for leaving in the car, as most segments are only a few minutes long.

Charles Umphread, the co-owner of Scent-Sations, the company I work with. He has been an amazing resource for me since I first joined the company. He is always ready to help, and he says it like it is. He truly wants everyone in the company to achieve success, and it shows in his attitude, work ethic, and business relationships.

******************************************************************

Okay, these are a few of my inspirations!

Your Turn!!

Why "Trying" is not enough....

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:06:00 +0000

I am reading a book by Larry Winget called, "Shutup, Stop Whining, & Get A Life." And, I have to tell you, it is one awesome book!! He tells how it is, without all the fluff, and really makes the reader stop, think, and evaluate. At least, he's causing me to stand up and take notice of my life--where I am now compared to where I want to be.

For years, I wanted to be in business for myself. I spent literally years thinking about it and even "tried" my hand at my own clothing business. I failed. Why? Because I "tried." I didn't just "do" it! I was not immediately successful and I had all kinds of excuses for why I was not (the economy was bad, I didn't have the right contacts, it took too much time away from my family, etc.....) However, what are those but excuses?? The bottom line is that I "tried," and truth be told, I didn't really try that hard. I was so scared of failing that I just didn't go for it! I had failure in my head, which showed in my actions, and I got exactly what I manifested.....a failed business.

After that experience, I put business on the back-burner. I kept my feelers out there for an opportunity, but nothing really moved me. Until, that is, I found the company I am with now. I am passionate about fragrance--I love perfumes, candles, oils, anything that smells good--even a good grilled steak! If it smells good, I am attracted to it! That passion led me to my own gourmet candle business.

When I found this business, I did my research on the company, the products, the compensation plan, etc. I learned all I could find on the internet because I did not want to fail again. What I found was that I could find nothing negative about any aspect of this company. Nothing Negative on the internet. Knowing that people are quick to complain about anything that rubs them wrong, I assumed I would find at least something out there to raise a red flag about this opportunity. But nada....Pretty amazing in my eyes!

What does that tell me? That tells me that I can be successful. That tells me that I can have everything that the company promises I can have. That tells me that other people (thousands of other people) are making money and enjoying their experience with this company and their products.

That tells me that it is up to me to make it happen! So, I signed up. I attend webinars. I read the training materials. I talk to the leaders of the company. I pick up the phone and call the owners. I do what is recommended. Hey, I even started a blog. I ask friends to host parties for me. I go to networking meetings to meet people and introduce my product and my business. I get out of my comfort zone to do the things that I see successful people do.

I am involved. That is the bottom line. I cannot "try" to work this business. I already know what happens when I "try"--I set myself up to fail. I have to do. I have to think about what I want in my life and then go out and make it happen. I need a plan, and then I need to follow that plan.

Have I reached my goals? Not by a long shot. But I continue to do the next right thing. I continue to emulate the successful people I admire. I continue to get out of my own way. I no longer "try" to do something, I just do it!

And I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I will achieve my dreams. I believe in myself, and I am willing to do what it takes to be where I want to be.

Are you headed in the direction you want to be going? What is stopping you from achieving your goals? Or what have you done to get where you want to be?

Leave me a comment and let me know!! We can all work together to Achieve Our Dreams!!

To read more about my business, please see my page, "CandleLight Dreams..."

Until next Time...

Launching "Friday Featured Biz!!"

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:24:00 +0000

Proud to announce the Launching of "Friday Featured Biz!"

I am thrilled to be kicking off my Friday Featured Biz with Lindsay of Happy Housewife Designs!! She designed my awesome new blog with professionalism, dedication, and patience!! And for a price that the "big guys" couldn't touch!!

Without further ado, here is what Lindsay has to say about her business, Happy Housewife Designs, and about the importance of supporting small business owners....

"When Lesa told me that she wanted to feature me on her blog I was so flattered. I mean I knew she loved her design but enough to do a whole post on me! Wow!

Like a lot of moms I started my business because I wanted to do something that not only helped with the family income but also gave me something that I loved to do. I told myself when I started out that I would "try it" and see where it goes. After a year of learning and several nights of wanting to throw my computer through the window I got there. I was a designer. I had taken the time which was usually during naps and once everyone was in bed asleep to learn, practice, and make design after design on my own personal blog. Then I opened up my business and have been so happy to be able to help other mom bloggers out by giving them a design they love at an affordable price.

I love working with other bloggers. Because you run into so many other moms that are in some kind of business and there are so many great products out there. I think its great that we have been given an outlet to let us do what we love from our home and while we raise our kids. I love being contacted by other mom bloggers who have great products that they believe in and want to share. I just bought an IPhone cover from one of these mom shops and it saved my phones life the other day when I dropped it (don't tell the hubby). But that would never be something that I could find in a regular store. I know they have cases but this case was cute and at a great price.

So come stop by my design shop and maybe even enter a giveaway (we have a HUGE one coming in July). I promise you will end up with a design you love and maybe even find a new blogger BFF like I have found my in great friend Lesa!"

Lindsay and I spent a lot of time talking, both on the phone, as well as via email. She took the time to answer my endless questions, and was dedicated to getting my blog exactly the way I wanted it! Better than that? I really have made a friend!

So, the next time you need a total blog make-over, or simply a tweak to your current design, please consider Lindsay for your next project!!

Thank you for reading, and for supporting the small business owner, where your business really is appreciated!!

****To have your small biz featured, please send me an email at LesaSpeaksOut@gmail.com, with the subject line "Featured Biz" and let me know! The "rules" are simple...write a paragraph about your business and services/products, and another paragraph about why supporting small business is important to you, and how you personally support small business either online or in your community.

That's it. My goal is to get everyone involved in supporting each other and keep our businesses growing!! And hey! If you make a friend through the process, let me know!!****

Thanks for reading, and for supporting Lindsay in her dream of staying home to care for her son while running her own business!!

Until Next Time....

Expect Success!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:18:00 +0000

Expect Success!!

Small-Town Shopping hidden in the City!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lesa Antone) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 03:59:00 +0000

As promised in yesterday's post, and in honor of the kick-off to my Friday Featured Business, I will be taking you on a "tour" of Catlin Court. Yesterday afternoon, I grabbed my daughter and my camera and went to a little district, 2 blocks off a main street in the City of Glendale, Arizona, where "Mom & Pop" Shops are alive, and if not flourishing, determined to survive!!

Because pictures really are worth 1000 words, this will be largely a photographic journey back in time. Where people are happy to see you, the yards are lush, green, and maintained. Where there is an air of peace and tranquility. Where these people are devoted to keeping their businesses alive in this unstable economic time.

As one shop owner said to me, "I've been here 18 years. I do it out of love."

Off we go....

First Stop--a trip to Halo to visit my friend Ronda

and get Taylor's nails done!!

In case you can't tell, Taylor didn't like it at all....

After Ronda, we walked directly next door to....

Where we spent a few minutes talking to Shelley, who is one amazing lady!!!

You can't buy this quality in a grocery store!!

This is my kind of cookie!!!

The store across the street was closed,

but worthy of a picture!!

Down the street we go....almost every store is a converted house on tree-lined streets that make you feel right at home....check out these pics.....

I had so much fun, and even Taylor had to admit that there really is something special about this place. I have so many fantastic pictures...of all the incredible merchandise inside the stores & more of the outside...Believe it or not, there are over 80 businesses in this district!!

I think, however, that I will save them for another day. I do want to leave you with a couple final thoughts.

First, I have been to this district only two times in recent history. (Yes, I am guilty of choosing convenience over character. A flaw I am working very hard at correcting.) Yet, there are shop owners who already recognize my face, and are happy to see me. They introduce me to other shop owners who wander in, and love to tell stories about all the awesome things to do in their beautiful little corner of the world!!

I ask you: When is the last time you walked into Wal-Mart and someone, not only recognized you, but was happy to see you, and talked to you like a long-time friend? If that happens to you, I need to shop at your Wal-Mart, because it does not happen at mine!!

Next time you need a unique gift, or just have the urge to do a little window-shopping, search out that hidden gem in your city....and give your business to the people who deserve it. And who will give it back ten-fold.

Thanks to the shop-owners who allowed my camera and my questions...and thank to you, for going on this tour with me.

Until Next Time.....