A Mompreneur's Salute to Veterans: Veterans Day 2014

Today is Veteran's Day and as I reflect I would like to first give thanks to all of the Veterans and their families for the sacrifices they have made.

Though I have never been in the Armed Forces, I have many family members, friends, and classmates who served. My father in law was Vietnam vet. My childhood friend and escort, for our senior high school official introductory night, died as a marine in the first Gulf War, while saving one of his fellow comrades. My nephew is a Marine...etc. etc.

I understand the pain and suffering that Veterans and their families go through. They are our heroes and on this day I thank God for them.

Freedom to Dream and to Pursue those Dreams

What has their sacrifice meant for me and for all of us in general?  It means that we have the freedom to pursue our goals and dreams. One of the inalienable rights we enjoy as citizens of this great country is the right to pursue happiness.

Yes we have the right to seek that which gives us joy! No one can convince you that you must stay in this job or that your path to success has to be along a course of someone else's making.

You are free to choose!

My choice is to be a mompreneur.

Veterans Day 2014 for a Mompreneur

Veterans Day 2014 was, for me, a typical mompreneur type day. I got my kids ready for school: prepared breakfast and lunch (I prefer sending them with home lunches.) I was about to go for my walk but my walking buddies cancelled.  

Then I went to 2 face to face appointments, after which, I attended  a telephone conference collaboration for a new business venture. When that was done, I picked my kids up.

On the way home we chatted about what happened in school. I enjoy this time, after school and in the car, with them because there are no distractions. Our evening was typical also.

But guess what? It was just as I had planned. I wasn't exhausted.  I prepared a nice meal of couscous, halibut and asparagus. The entire family sat together and conversed.

[caption id="attachment_284" align="aligncenter" width="442"] Dinner on Veteran's Day 2014[/caption]

We have the freedom to choose and  we have relative peace in a stable home.

This is only possible because of the sacrifices of our Veterans.

I remember when my nephew said he was joining the Marines.  I thought initially, I don't want him to go. But somebody has to. Someone has to be brave and strong and be willing to sacrifice for the good of us all.

Again, I thank all Veterans this day. And as I continue to reflect I am in awe of them. They are all heroes.

What did you do this Veterans Day 2014? Share with us below. Grow with us on this journey of motherhood and entrepreneurship by subscribing to this blog. We will learn together in so many areas of our lives.  And remember Life is Good.

Healthy Snacking

As you work, remember to take short breaks. The body is meant to move not just sit and stare at a computer screen.

I give myself a break every 90 minutes. During this time I stretch, use the ladies room or snack.

Today, during one of my short breaks, I grabbed a healthy snack of vanilla yogurt, almonds with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

What are your healthy snacking ideas? Do you take breaks intermittently throughout your work day.

Share your thoughts with us by commenting below and don't forget to subscribe to this blog.

 

To Franchise or Not?

So you want to start a business; but you are unsure of where to begin. What are your options? Should you purchase an existing business, start from scratch, or buy a franchise? Franchising as an option provides a lot of benefits.

Nicole Fallon of Business News Daily wrote an article today where she discusses trends and some of the benefits of  franchising. She mentions that franchises help one avoid unnecessary risk and they are more easily expandable in international markets. Also as an added incentive, franchises are perfect opportunities for inter-generational family businesses especially between the millennial and the boomer.

While this is true, you have to consider whether or not franchising is suitable for YOU.

Fast Dinners for Busy Mompreneurs

It is Friday....yeahhhhh! Let the party begin. But wait, I still have to fix dinner.

While I loovvveee to cook, I am super busy and by Friday I just want to relax.

Today, I made something quick and healthy, yes, healthy: a salad made with spinach, romaine, mixed greens, yellow-green-orange peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, English cucumbers, and carrots. I also made a bison burger with onions, garlic, and aged cheddar cheese.

We usually do quick meals on Fridays and today's was yummmm!

As a busy mompreneur, you deserve a break. It is ok to have fast, healthy meals sometimes. What better day than Friday.

Share some of your quick meals with us below. Grow and learn with other mompreneurs by subscribing to this blog.

Life is good:)

How to Raise a Child Who Loves to Read: 5 Simple Steps

We've heard it all before: readers are leaders, reading is fundamental to success, read a book change the world, kids who read succeed. As adults, you don't have to convince us of these truths. We know them to be true on the most basic level.

But kids are different. We have to mold them and guide them; all the while praying that they appreciate and understand the basic truths that we take for granted: look both ways before you cross the street, eat fruits and veggies, save your money. And yes, fall in love with reading because readers are leaders and all that other jazz.

How do we convince them?  How do we raise kids who love to read; kids who as adults become life long readers not just the regular Joe who only reads what he must then avoids all other written works?

Just this week, I had the pleasure of hearing my 13 year old say, "I just love to read." This announcement came after she had completed the last of the Rick Riordan Series.

She had tears in her eyes. Yes, literal tears. Don't laugh.

Productivity Tools for Mompreneurs

Ways to Improve Productivity for Busy Mompreneurs

I am always looking for ways to increase productivity.  As a mompreneur, I wear many hats.

I know YOU do too.  So What do we do in order to create content/products/services for our business and still have time to help kids study, cook, and have a little fun.

Well, the easy answer is to PLAN, make lists, etc etc. I know you do that already and so do I.  As I searched, I learned that technology is changing so quickly and many of the new knickknacks are geared toward increasing our productivity.

Entrepreneurship: An Option for Moms

This is my story.............

Professional Career

I was a highly driven and successful government employee, easily climbing in rank from Institutional Researcher I to Assistant Director of Institutional Research at my local university. With 4 children, all under the age of 11 yrs and the last 3 under the age of 4 years, I had a lot on my plate.  Nevertheless, I was determined to continue with my professional goals, finish my PhD, run my family business, raise my family and be an awesome wife, mother and homemaker.

A Fall Inspired Recipe: Squash Pancakes

Today I took an early morning walk.  The weather was beautiful ....not too hot nor too cold, a bit overcast, perfect for fall.  Upon my return, I decided to make a fall  inspired breakfast.

Thankfully, my neighbors had given me a squash, which was going to be the main ingredient in my warm and cozy fall repertoire of edible arrangements.  

[caption id="attachment_188" align="aligncenter" width="713"] Squash[/caption]

This decision was met with the not so pleasant cries of my kids, who said that the squash would be better in soup.  But I was determined to use it for pancakes.  I just knew that those remarkable gold overtones in the squash would just brighten up any pancake. Not to mention, my most important hidden agenda was the added vitamins that I knew those fall inspired pancakes would provide. So I carried on and ignored their pleas.

Growth Mindset Learning: Should Parents Tell Kids They Are Smart?

Salman Kahn of Kahn Academy

Just about a month ago, I found an article written by Salman Kahn (Sal) of Kahn Academy, with the subtitle "Why I would Never Tell My Son He's Smart."  The subtitle intrigued me.  I have four girls, all smart, in my humble opion, and I have always told them this.  One graduated from high school at 16 and she is now enrolled in a doctoral course at Brown University, not having to complete her Masters in order to attain that feat. My other girls are still in school at various stages and they have always been in gifted programs etc.  Have I made a mistake by telling them they are smart?

Labor Day 2014 Getaway to South Carolina

 

I know..... Labor Day is long past but I just wanted to share with you my experience.  This Labor Day was very important to me and my family. Why, you ask?....Well simply because this is the first time in over 10 years that we actually got away for Labor Day! Can you imagine?!

 

As a mompreneur, I became so bogged down with tasks, obligations, responsibilities, that Labor Day for us usually involved the following:

• Organizing fall clothes for the upcoming school year,


• Decorating for the fall,


• Playing catch up with to dos around the house,


• Playing catch with with business tasks,


• etc.

You got the point.  I did everything except relax.

Labor Day 2014 Getaway to South Carolina

I know..... Labor Day is long past but I just wanted to share with you my experience.  This Labor Day was very important to me and my family. Why, you ask?....Well simply because this is the first time in over 10 years that we actually got away for Labor Day! Can you imagine?!

As a mompreneur I became so bogged down with tasks, obligations, responsibilities, that Labor Day for us usually involved the following:

• Organizing fall clothes for the upcoming school year,
• Decorating for the fall,
• Playing catch up with to dos around the house,
• Playing catch with with business tasks,
• etc.

You got the point.  I did everything except relaxed.

This Labor Day was different.  We went to Charleston, SC and we had an amazing time.  Charleston has so many things to do and see. Not to mention, the architecture is just beautiful.

I truly enjoyed seeing some of the old churches as well as the Old City Market.

We ate dinner at one best hotels I have ever visited. The food at Kiawah Island Resort's Jasmine Porch was awesome! 

The beaches ran along for miles and miles.  We didn't rest much. But we truly had fun!

So get out there when those holidays come and do something fun with your family.  Making memories with your family is more important than anything on your to do list.

A Mompreneur's Life: 5 Simple Sources of Happiness

As a mompreneur, mom-entrepreneur, life is a literal hustle: constantly on the go, being pulled in multiple directions.  This being the case, I strive to find times of solace.  But with so much to do, this isn't always possible.  So what do you do with a chaotic life and a running to do list that is a mile long? I have found that my solace can be found in the simple things.

1. A child's smile:  Last week, I picked my kids up from school and when I saw them coming to the car I saw their smiles.....ahhhh.  Those smiles made me feel like all the hard work was worth it.  It gave me a sense of peace and a feeling of immense joy and happiness.  I got out of the car and gave them a big hug.  I wanted them to know how much their presence impacted my life in a positive way.


2. A Spouse's kiss:  Yes, kiss.  Not the romantic sort but a peck on the cheek or forehead.  The kind that lets me know he cares.  Such a kiss makes me feel so happy and secure.


3. Homegrown traditions:  Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving or simple traditions like bed time stories, they all are friendly reminders of the routines we have established that make my family what it is.  When we gather to perform tasks associated with our traditions, it gives me immense satisfaction.


4. A good book:  Reading a good book is all absorbing and consuming and takes me away from the pressures of my running to do list.  When I am absorbed in the melodrama of the hero or heroine, I do not worry about the dilemmas I personally face.  I recall when our family was facing financial ruin as a result of business decisions gone wrong, I think I read during those times more than any other times in my life.  Reading for me is a simple source of joy and provided the escape I needed.


5. A good friend:  Good friends are like fine wine; the friendship grows better with age. My best friend and I have been friends since college and her presence in my life is a simple source of joy. She listens to my fears, she sees my tears, she understands my circumstances. More importantly, she is not afraid to tell me when she thinks I am wrong.  I look forward to our conversations; she keeps me grounded.  When the phone rings and I know it is her, I smile.

Life is full and we have to snatch pieces of happiness but if we remember that our happiness isn't in events but in the simple things then it won't be difficult to remind ourselves of the goodness that each day brings.  Life is good!

A Mompreneur's Life: 5 Simple Sources of Happiness

As a mompreneur, mom-entrepreneur, life is a literal hustle: constantly on the go, being pulled in multiple directions.  This being the case, I strive to find times of solace.  But with so much to do, this isn't always possible.  So what do you do with a chaotic life and a running to do list that is a mile long? I have found that my solace can be found in the simple things.  

1. A child's smile:  Last week, I picked my kids up from school and when I saw them coming to the car I saw their smiles.....ahhhh.  Those smiles made me feel like all the hard work was worth it.  It gave me a sense of peace and a feeling of immense joy and happiness.  I got out of the car and gave them a big hug.  I wanted them to know how much their presence impacted my life in a positive way.
2. A Spouse's kiss:  Yes, kiss.  Not the romantic sort but a peck on the cheek or forehead.  The kind that lets me know he cares.  Such a kiss makes me feel so happy and secure.
3. Homegrown traditions:  Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving or simple traditions like bed time stories, they all are friendly reminders of the routines we have established that make my family what it is.  When we gather to perform tasks associated with our traditions, it gives me immense satisfaction.
4. A good book:  Reading a good book is all absorbing and consuming and takes me away from the pressures of my running to do list.  When I am absorbed in the melodrama of the hero or heroine, I do not worry about the dilemmas I personally face.  I recall when our family was facing financial ruin as a result of business decisions gone wrong, I think I read during those times more than any other times in my life.  Reading for me is a simple source of joy and provided the escape I needed.
5. A good friend:  Good friends are like fine wine; the friendship grows better with age. My best friend and I have been friends since college and her presence in my life is a simple source of joy. She listens to my fears, she sees my tears, she understands my circumstances. More importantly, she is not afraid to tell me when she thinks I am wrong.  I look forward to our conversations; she keeps me grounded.  When the phone rings and I know it is her, I smile.

Life is full and we have to snatch pieces of happiness but if we remember that our happiness isn't in events but in the simple things then it won't be difficult to remind ourselves of the goodness that each day brings.  Life is good!

Back to School

Back to School

It is that time of year again for kids to leave the warm sandy beaches of summer and head back to school! A bitter sweet time for the entire family.  No more care free days.  Instead, we are all back to schedules, practices, test preparation, etc. etc.  Ok yes, I am sort of happy because my grocery bill will diminish a tad bit and I won't have the constant interruptions while I work.  But the smiles and the "mommy what can I make you for lunch" will be sorely missed.

 

How do I get what has become a rowdy bunch back in gear for this upcoming engagement?  I know it happens every year, but we are never ready.  They haven't gotten back on a sleeping schedule, an eating schedule, a study schedule. All schedules were tossed this summer.

The Habit Factor

Well one thing we have decided to do is read The Habit Factor by Martin Grunburg, as a family. We started reading it before, but we only got halfway through.  We are going to start reading again with the start of the first week of school. From the little that I remember, this book speaks specifically about how habits help us to achieve beyond our wildest dreams. So I want my little ones to understand that even the simplest of habits can have a profound impact on their lives. We will not only read this book but we will take purposeful steps based on what we have learned.

The Schedule

Secondly, yes, I will create a schedule that we can follow.  I said I, but I really mean we, they are quick to say mommy I don't want anymore lessons and my husband and I have come to leave well enough alone.  As I think about it, I realize that we need schedules for so many different things:  cleaning/laundry, music lessons, church activities, leisure activities, school engagements, etc. etc.  We will remember that there is a time to work and a time to play and we will make sure that everything is done in its time.  Not to forget the time to rest.

The Plan

Thirdly we will plan.  Every year I say we are going away on spring break and every year we do not! So depressing.  Things will be different this year because we will plan.  We will take the academic calendar and plan "stay-cations" and short excursions, when there are three day weekends.  For longer breaks like spring break, we will plan out of town getaways.  I believe breaking the academic year up with fun activities will make it feel less burdensome to my precious little ones.  In addition, it will give my hubby and I an opportunity to rejuvenate.

As a mompreneur, life is exhausting enough.  I have to remind myself school is not the beginning of a no fun zone in our lives.  It can literally be summer all year if we instill good habits, create schedules and plan our activities.

 

I will let you know how things are going as the school year unfolds.  What about you?  What are you doing to get ready for back to school?  Let us know by commenting below and best wishes to you and your family for this schoolyear!

Back to School

It is that time of year again for kids to leave the warm sandy beaches of summer and head back to school! A bitter sweet time for the entire family.  No more care free days.  Instead, we are all back to schedules, practices, test preparation, etc. etc.  Ok yes, I am sort of happy because my grocery bill will diminish a tad bit and I won't have the constant interruptions while I work.  But the smiles and the "mommy what can I make you for lunch" will be sorely missed.

How do I get what has become a rowdy bunch back in gear for this upcoming engagement?  I know it happens every year, but we are never ready.  They haven't gotten back on a sleeping schedule, an eating schedule, a study schedule. All schedules were tossed this summer.

Memorial Day Reflections

Today is Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2014.  On this day, I can't help but to reflect on the sacrifices made by our service men and women.  Many have died as a testament to the fact that Freedom isn't free.

 

I recall my classmate who died in the 1st Gulf War.  He and I walked together during what we called Introductory Night.  This night was the first time high school seniors were introduced to the community as potential graduates of the current academic year.  He was the first of my classmates to die.  He was such a gentle fellow.  He was a marine and his demise was during his attempt to rescue fellow marines.

 

I also reflect on my Father In Law, who was a part of the U.S. Army Special Forces as a  Green Beret during the Vietnam War. Eventually Agent Orange took him, which was contracted as a result of a chemical, with the same name, being sprayed in their surroundings during the time he was on active duty.

 

As a mother, my heart mourns for those moms whose young children are lost to war.  At the same time, I understand the need to maintain a strong military force.  The young men and women who died, should be honored each and every day that we wake up with the ability to engage in our capitalist pursuits.  As an entrepreneur, I am humbled by the fact that I live in a country where I can do and be what ever I choose.

 

Praise God for this great nation and thank you for all of the service men and women who are currently serving and to those who have died....I REMEMBER YOU THIS DAY AND EVERY DAY!

Memorial Day Reflections

Today is Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2014.  On this day, I can't help but to reflect on the sacrifices made by our service men and women.  Many have died as a testament to the fact that Freedom isn't free. 

I recall my classmate who died in the 1st Gulf War.  He and I walked together during what we called Introductory Night.  This night was the first time high school seniors were introduced to the community as potential graduates of the current academic year.  He was the first of my classmates to die.  He was such a gentle fellow.  He was a marine and his demise was during his attempt to rescue fellow marines.

I also reflect on my Father In Law, who was a part of the U.S. Army Special Forces as a  Green Beret during the Vietnam War. Eventually Agent Orange took him, which was contracted as a result of a chemical, with the same name, being sprayed in their surroundings during the time he was on active duty.

As a mother, my heart mourns for those moms whose young children are lost to war.  At the same time, I understand the need to maintain a strong military force.  The young men and women who died, should be honored each and every day that we wake up with the ability to engage in our capitalist pursuits.  As an entrepreneur, I am humbled by the fact that I live in a country where I can do and be what ever I choose.

Praise God for this great nation and thank you for all of the service men and women who are currently serving and to those who have died....I REMEMBER YOU THIS DAY AND EVERY DAY!

First Fruits

 

My family and I planted strawberries. I was hesitant because I am not an outdoors kind of gal. I would rather clean, decorate and entertain inside of my home. Nevertheless, we planted strawberries, peaches, and a variety of plums. It was hard work. The sun was hot. I complained every step of the way, until I saw the first fruits. Those two gorgeous strawberries came from my garden. Though smaller than what I would buy from the grocery store, they were quite sweet. Yummmm.

Business is kind of like planting and harvesting. The initial work is hard, tedious, and yes, it can be nerve wrecking and back breaking. You have to patiently wait for the fruits of your labor and though the initial harvest may be small, eventually with patience and perseverance you will reap a bountiful harvest.  So, no matter what, stay encouraged especially if you are a brand new entrepreneur, you will soon taste the sweetness of your first fruits.

First Fruits

My family and I planted strawberries. I was hesitant because I am not an outdoors kind of gal. I would rather clean, decorate and entertain inside of my home. Nevertheless, we planted strawberries, peaches, and a variety of plums. It was hard work. The sun was hot. I complained every step of the way, until I saw the first fruits. Those two gorgeous strawberries came from my garden. Though smaller than what I would buy from the grocery store, they were quite sweet. Yummmm.

Business is kind of like planting and harvesting. The initial work is hard, tedious, and yes, it can be nerve wrecking and back breaking. You have to patiently wait for the fruits of your labor and though the initial harvest may be small, eventually with patience and perseverance you will reap a bountiful harvest.  So, no matter what, stay encouraged especially if you are a brand new entrepreneur, you will soon taste the sweetness of your first fruits.

Kid Entrepreneurs

I have been absent for so long simply because I have been inundated with work.  As a mother and an entrepreneur, I am constantly on the go and sometimes I forget the joy of entrepreneurship, the sheer ecstasy of knowing  that if this venture is to be, it is up to me.  Kids will always bring us back to reality. Yesterday, my 11 year old did just that.  She reminded me that entrepreneurship is fun!

She made homemade bows.  We literally went to Joann's and picked up all the necessary fabrics and supplies.  I was amazed at how quickly she made the bows, with no input from me, I might add.  Last evening I went into her bedroom to check on her, it was already 9:30 pm.  She should have been sleeping but guess what, she had already made 3 more bows.  Her excitement and enthusiasm is contatgious.  She created her own Ebay page to sell her handcrafted items.  For her, it is all fun.

I appreciate her so much for reminding me that creating and doing is fun!  I am reminded not to get bogged down in the mundane but to focus on the bigger picture.

1. This is my venture, what ever it is.


2. I can do this. No one is coercing me.


3. And I can change direction if I need to.

It is fitting that we continue to motivate, celebrate, and be inspried by all of the kid entrepreneurs out there. Do you know any kid entrepreneurs who are doing their own thing and having fun at it?  If yes, link their pages and or products below.

Kid Entrepreneurs

I have been absent for so long simply because I have been inundated with work.  As a mother and an entrepreneur, I am constantly on the go and sometimes I forget the joy of entrepreneurship, the sheer ecstasy of knowing  that if this venture is to be, it is up to me.  Kids will always bring us back to reality. Yesterday, my 11 year old did just that.  She reminded me that entrepreneurship is fun!

5 Simple Steps to Help you Overcome Procrastination

I used to be a procrastinator.  But not anymore.  I am reformed..been reformed for well over 5 years.  How did I do it?  The immediate answer is Allen and Covey.  David Allen in Getting Things Done and Stephen Covey in the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, and a bit of discipline helped me to change my ways.

With Allen I learned that I need to write down any and everything that pops into my head no matter how important or seemingly inconsequential.  He says that the small things will metamorphose into big things, with time.  I remember my daughter needed something for school, a seemingly small consideration.  I procrastinated and didn't write it down.  The morning of the event, I had not bought her item and she went to school without it.  She was very upset and I had to reschedule business activities of the day in order to go and buy my daughter's item.  If I had written down her needs on my list, I would not have had to miss a day of business activities.  Also, it ended up costing me more money because I had to buy the first item I saw rather than shopping around. Now I write everything down.  I have a journal that I use and if it pops into my head, it goes in my journal.

Stephen Covey via his time quadrant has taught me that the things that must be done can be categorized according to importance.  I now categorize also according to role.  Generally, I use Sundays to complete my big planning and my list of things to do, for whom, when, etc is sorted and categorized for the upcoming week.

How can you do it too?

1. Write everything down that you have to do, no matter how seemingly inconsequential.


2. Keep your journal with you and consistently update your lists as new tasks come to mind.


3. Categorize your list according to role, resources, etc.


4. Take time at least once a week for major planning where you will decide which items you will complete and when.


5. Reward yourself for staying on task.

Procrastination is literally a time thief.  No one wants anyone stealing from them, but we don't realize that at times we are our biggest enemy by constantly stealing time from ourselves.  But hope is not lost.  If I can change in this area, so can you.  Just take it one step at a time.

What are you doing to improve with regards to time management and organization?  Share your tips with us below.

5 Simple Steps to Help you Overcome Procrastination

I used to be a procrastinator.  But not anymore.  I am reformed..been reformed for well over 5 years.  How did I do it?  The immediate answer is Allen and Covey.  David Allen in Getting Things Done and Stephen Covey in the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, and a bit of discipline helped me to change my ways.