tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28506805160687113872024-03-13T11:11:45.980-05:00Working MotherA stay at home mother of 2 boys trying to figure out the secrets to the work at home world and the balancing act between the two.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-29323101409071151772010-03-29T06:54:00.001-05:002010-03-29T06:54:00.615-05:00Get The Word Out About Your BizIf you are looking for low and no-cost ways to Get the Word Out about your business, check out this free call featuring Carrie Wilkerson, The Barefoot Executive and President of AWHW.org.<br /><br />Carrie is so excited to share her 5 favorite ways to market your business!<br /><br />Don't get sucked into paying for lots of ads, guaranteed 'hits' - banners or 'miracles in marketing'...<br /><br />Go register now - a gift to you as my reader! --> www.awhw.org/public/awhw2010.cfm?affID=dawntrenee<br /><br />There is a replay if you have a time conflict!<br /><br />Get the details now<br />--> www.awhw.org/public/awhw2010.cfm?affID=dawntreneedawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-4681660952761029822010-02-23T13:22:00.001-06:002010-02-23T13:22:12.509-06:00Funnel Traffic to Your Site Via Article DirectoriesContent is one of the main reasons people keep coming back to the Internet. Providing the information they seek can lead readers back to you again and again. If you are a writer, use your skill to promote your website through article directories and if you’re not, you can still hire someone to help you!reading content online<br /><br />Article directories are places where website owners can go to find useful content in their niche. People simply surfing the web can also find this content during their topic searches.<br /><br />The easiest way to create content is to write about something that you know – your niche market. Within those parameters you have plenty to work with. You can write about business issues: starting a business in your niche, defining your niche and promoting your business, write articles that relate to your niche and that give your readers quality content.<br /><br />Keys to Driving Traffic Your Way<br /><br />• Always have an engaging headline. Include the same keywords that you use on your website. Articles that include steps or processes catch a reader’s eye. Why? They usually include bulleted points or numbered steps which are easy to skim or read quickly. Reader’s like to get their information in as useful a format as possible.<br /><br />• Use keywords throughout the article. For an article of 400-500 words, a particular keyword can be mentioned about six or seven times to be effective and not considered “keyword stuffing.” For maximum effect, if you have more than one keyword you want to use, write a separate article for each.<br /><br />• Submit your content to popular article directories. Some people may have their favorite sites like About.com or Ezinearticles.com to find helpful information. There they can search within the site to find helpful articles. If you are there with your expertise in the form of submitted articles, they will find you. Once they have some information from you they can use and trust, the chances of them following through to your website to learn more increase.<br /><br />• Use your bio box. This is one of the most helpful tools for free website promotion when writing and submitting articles to directories. Here, you have a chance to tell others what you want them to know about you and your business. And, you can include links to your website here for readers to follow.<br /><br />Even with audio and video showing up more and more, written content is still royalty on the Internet. Drive traffic your way by submitting quality content to popular article directories, along with those other types of content for maximum exposure.<br /><br />Need help with this or other ways of promoting your business? We can help! <a href="http://ping.fm/JxBMG">http://ping.fm/JxBMG</a>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-48683033133419909922010-02-22T17:04:00.001-06:002010-02-22T17:04:05.412-06:00Just Launch ItJust Launch It<br /><br />Filed Under teleseminar<br /><br />I wanted to let you know about a HUGE complimentary event that I am a speaking at and I will be talking about Face. The Just Launch It Event is all about helping you over the hurdles in launching a business or re-launching your business with success and grace. There are 10 Entrepreneurs and Experts who started out just where you are and each are providing incredible information you don’t want to miss.<br /><br />Check out the details <a href="http://ping.fm/bxhq5">http://ping.fm/bxhq5</a><br /><br />At the Just Launch It Event, you will learn about 5 key areas:<br /><br />1. FOCUS: Align your passion and purpose with your business idea<br />2. FACE: Find your target audience and learn how to approach them<br />3. FOUNDATION: Discover how to build a solid base for your business to grow<br />4. FINANCIAL: Learn the key elements for financial success and how to set them up<br />5. FREEDOM: Unravel the mystery of taking the leap from employee to entrepreneur FULL-TIME<br />Don’t miss this <a href="http://ping.fm/YsfMG">http://ping.fm/YsfMG</a>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-18393685483142764342010-02-22T10:26:00.001-06:002010-02-22T10:26:36.532-06:00Pool Your Resources, Get NoticedJust like exercise, business marketing is cumulative. Each effort, though small, builds on the ones before for a magnificent result. As you work to get yourself known in the Internet business world, it may be time to capitalize on the resources and knowledge of others in the form of business partnerships.<br /><br />Going into business with others can be scary but it can also be quite profitable. Once you begin getting your name out there and building relationships with others, you’ll find people will start seeking you out for your information. Before long, you’ll have requests for any number of things beneficial to your website. Many won’t cost you a dime, but will still create exposure and advertising.<br />Two ways that you might find to do so are via guest blogging and joint venture giveaways. You can find bloggers who are in your niche and offer to guest blog for them. This gives you exposure and showcases your expertise.<br /><br />You can guest blog for a day, a week or two, or even on a continual basis. Depending on the blog owner, you may get a byline where you can list your website link. If they allow links in your blog posts (where relevant), then use them to promote your websites, blogs, and products or services.<br /><br />Guest blogging is a two-way street. You can ask others to guest blog for you too. They will, in turn, let their readership know where they were will be appearing and that means extra promotion for your website and blog too!<br /><br />Partnering with others can also be a great idea. One of the ways you can do so is through joint venture giveaways. To become a contributor, you have to be invited to participate. With the giveaway event, you offer a free gift to members who sign up to come to the event. To receive your free gift, members have to visit your website and sign up to your list to gain access.<br /><br />Not only are you getting your name out there with the members but also with the other contributors. One stipulation of your contributor status is to promote the event. Through the other contributors, you’re also getting some free promotion for your own website. Members who enjoy the information available at these giveaways will most likely share with those they know who would be interested as well.<br /><br />Through these and similar events you open the door to relationship building again and again. Business associates may find that partnering with you again is advantageous to both them and you. As with any partnership, each half will bring strengths the other person may not possess. For instance, if you have a product, but lack the technical resources necessary to increase your marketing efforts for it, try partnering with someone who may not have a product but can handle the more technical aspects of the partnership.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-43401562834222348962009-08-24T12:53:00.000-05:002009-08-24T12:55:04.114-05:00Start your Work At Home CareerMom, Here’s How You Can Start a Work at Home Career<br /><br />Thanks to the rising costs of daycare and transportation and the desire to have a parent home with the children, today many moms choose to work from home. This arrangement is sometimes called “telecommuting”, and it allows parents the opportunity to set up a workspace in their homes to earn a living instead of having to leave the home daily.<br /><br />They might also choose to start their own businesses, instead of working for another company. Working from home is rising popularity and the Internet is offering many different types of careers and business opportunities to moms. And for proof that the work at home dream is possible, be sure to check out the success tips from moms just like you in the <a href="http://justaddsweat.com/go.php?offer=harlyhme94&pid=7">Full Time WAHM eBook</a>.<br /><br />So how can you start a work at home career? This is a frequently asked question that can lead to a lot of confusion about on where to start. Here are just some of the work from home careers currently available to moms:<br /><br />· Party Consultant (beauty, health, jewelry, home decor, adult, etc.) We all know about companies like Avon and Tupperware, but there are so many more opportunities for moms and they are still a popular way to earn an income. From home and garden products, to jewelry and makeup and even adult novelties, home party plans are great ways for moms to work from home. Earnings vary by company and commission schedule.<br /><br />· Virtual Office Service. Are you a people person who likes to do customer service and to provide other office services? Then a client service job might be perfect for you. Many large firms are hiring Mom’s to work from home answering customer calls and providing other office support virtually. These jobs can pay between $8-12+ an hour. You can also start you own business providing customer service directly to clients and increase the amount you charge per hour.<br /><br />· Selling on Auction Sites or Craft Boards. Many Moms sell their unwanted items on auction sites like eBay.com or sell their crafts on boards like Etsy.com for a source of income. If you are a creative person who enjoys making beautiful things or you want to earn a little extra money for the clothes your kids outgrow, why not sell them!<br /><br />· Starting on Online Business. The Internet offers the chance for you to create just about any type of business they desire. Whether it’s creating an information-packed website that helps others (and earns money through advertising and selling products for commissions), creating your own products or selling products at wholesale, the choice is yours.<br /><br />There are any number of opportunities just waiting to be tried by enterprising Moms looking for fulfillment and extra money.<br /><br />Recommended Additional Resource:<br /><br />Working from home doesn’t come without it’s challenges. Learn from 21 moms just like you have been there, done that. <a href="http://justaddsweat.com/go.php?offer=harlyhme94&pid=7">Full Time WAHM</a> provides practical mom-to-mom advice on who to balance work & home and how to turn into a work at home success.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-5197114809504709332009-08-20T10:12:00.000-05:002009-08-20T10:12:00.547-05:00How Is A Blog Good For My Business?It isn't long after you start your business before you hear people begin to tell you, it's a good idea to get a blog started. Unfortunately, some times people don't tell you why or are only able to give you a sketchy idea why. How is blogging why. How is blogging helpful to your business, particularly if the business is offline or when you are a service provider, like a belly dancer who belly dancer who performs at private functions for example.<br /><br />Here are some ways having a blog could help generate more interest, leads or bookings.<br /><br /><strong>It Exhibits Your Expertise</strong><br /><br />It is alright to put up videos and pictures on web pages to show others what yo to show others what you can do for them, but I'll bet you have more and newer videos and snap shots. Also, some orders are unique. These are all good reasons to show off and what better way than to use blog because it is so easy to update. A belly dancer can display videos where a client has requested something unique which forced her to think outside the box and come up with some creative choreography.<br /><br /><strong>It Can Demonstrate How You Will Solve Client Problems</strong><br /><br />You know the old saying, people buy solutions, not productons, not products or services. You can explain this on a regular web page but on a blog, it all becomes more believable, more tangible.<br /><br /><strong>It Shows You Are Actively Using Your Skills</strong><br /><br />If you are currently working with clients, any post you make about your job is a good testimonial. It shows that there are people who already trust you to do what you claim you will do. Better still if your customer can contribute to your blog or allow you to quote them.<br /><br /><strong>You Can Get To Know Your Prospects And They Get To Know You</strong><br /><br />This is true particularly when you offer a service because people usually want to work with others whom they can get along with. Because a blog is interactive, through the comments people can begin to experience you and get a feel of how the company handles their customers.<br /><br /><strong>It Can Help Increase Website Traffic</strong><br /><br />When you write good, content that is relevant and also promote it, people will take notice. When they do, they are more likely to share it on their own blog and their social networks and even decide to email it to their newsletter subscribers. All good ways to get fresh traffic.<br /><br /><strong>It Can Reduce The Need To Answer Questions Over And Over</strong><br /><br />There are questions in every business that people tend to ask again and again. Whenever you answer these questions on your blog, you help your prospects out by giving them the information they are seeking, you plant the seed of trust, you add fresh content to your website, stuff that search engines and people alike love. And finally, you reduce your work because now you don't have to type your answer again and again.<br /><br />Blogging can be a quite rewarding. The down side is, keeping it going with fresh new content can be tough. Private label articles are OK but you still have to re-write them. The people at Blog Energizer have an alternative idea. Blogging prompts. Sometimes what you need is a jump start. Instead of staring at a blank computer screen, prompts help you write 100% original content. <a href="http://marketingright.com/2/4711aa/635/order">Blog Energizer</a> provides you with 30 blogging prompts every month, one for every day of the month. They will also help you promote your posts, contests or any viral report you may have. Worth taking a look at.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-6825403625809820992009-08-19T10:06:00.000-05:002009-08-19T10:06:00.730-05:00Are you networking with other moms?If you have been searching online for work at home opportunities, you have probably come across several websites, message boards and forums. These message boards and forums will allow you to meet and network with other WAHMs (work at home moms) across the world.<br /><br />Networking online with other moms on message boards is very easy! Find a forum that you like, register an account and post an introduction message right away. Let the other moms know where you are from and what you want to accomplish with working at home. The women you meet there will provide you with advice on how to start a business, information on a wide variety of subjects, employment opportunities, and they will be more than happy to lend an ear when you need to complain about a bad day.<br /><br />Start reading other people’s posts – you will notice that there is a section where the poster can list their business website. Visit the different websites – eventually you will find a few work at home moms that have businesses similar to the type you would like to start. Send them a message and let them know you admire their business and ask for advice on how you can get started in the same type of field.<br /><br />Keep reading and replying to posts regularly; you will find that people have questions about things you are an ‘expert’ in. By building relationships and establishing credibility, people will come to you when they have a need for the product or service you provide.<br /><br />Seek out the services of other home based moms when you need help with something. If you have done business with a certain mom, recommend her services to others when they need them! Your work at home friend will appreciate your help and will recommend your services to other people.<br /><br />Eventually, someone new to the WAHM community will seek you out and ask for your advice on how to get started. Take them under your wing and show them a few helpful pointers. You may not be able to pay back all of the mothers who have helped you with your business, but you can definitely pay it forward by helping others!dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-51556380449449417382009-08-18T08:22:00.000-05:002009-08-18T08:22:00.685-05:00If you spend a ton of time online you likely run across websites, articles, recipes, and more that you want to come back to again at some point. A great way to be able to do so is to bookmark the site. These days there are a variety of ways that you can "bookmark" your favorite places on the web, and all the great sites, articles and other things that you want to "store" for a later time.<br /><br />Social Bookmarking is also good for online businesses.<br /><p>Social bookmarking, it's just one of the various social media sites that has helped so many small business owners with their marketing efforts. Social bookmarking like other forms of social media is a great way to market your small business for free. So, if you're a small business owner <u>YOU </u>should definitely be utilizing social bookmarking. <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/3112059930_df873a5c20_m.jpg" mce_href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/3112059930_df873a5c20_m.jpg"><img class="alignnone" style="margin: 10px;" mce_style="margin: 10px;" title="digg" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/3112059930_df873a5c20_m.jpg" mce_src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/3112059930_df873a5c20_m.jpg" alt="" align="left" height="158" width="240" /></a></p> <p>Although it can take some time to truly benefit from social bookmarking, which allows you to save your favorite links for anything and everything you find online and then share those links with others. Your aim as a small business owner would be to share links from your own site, services and promotions to be quickly and easily found by others. You would also aim to have others bookmark your endeavors, your promotional blog posts and anything that points back to your site.</p> <p>Your aim is to begin to create a following, so that over time they repeatedly look to your social bookmarks to find what they need in your area of expertise.</p> <p>Why not try out social bookmarking for yourself? Try out <a title="Digg" href="http://digg.com/" mce_href="http://digg.com" target="_blank">Digg </a>and <a title="delicious" href="http://delicious.com/" mce_href="http://delicious.com" target="_blank">Delicious </a>to get started.</p><p>To learn more about social bookmarking : <a href="http://bit.ly/rRtDN">Unlocking the Secrets To Social Bookmarking</a><br /></p>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-34669629204374320342009-08-17T09:52:00.000-05:002009-08-17T09:52:00.396-05:00Back to School Means Ugh Whats for Dinner?Is school really just around the corner? You know what that means - early morning scrambles, after-school tizzies and ragged nerves at dinnertime. Run, Run and meals get pushed out of your mind.<br /><br />But it can still be possible to have pleasant family mealtimes even after school has begun. Check out these back-to-school dinner tips for busy Moms:<br /><br />1. Have a meal plan.<br /><br />The most important key to having relaxed family dinners even on school nights is having a meal plan. This will simplify both food shopping and meal preparation, and help you save money to boot.<br /><br />If you need help, check out <a href="http://dinewithoutwhine.com/amember/go.php?r=7597&i=l1">Dine Without Whine's meal and grocery planning service.</a><br /><br />2. Try freezer meals.<br /><br />Cut down on cooking time by cooking large batches and then freezing them for future use.<br /><br />3. Simplify your schedule.<br /><br />With school comes extracurricular activities that could have you running - or driving around - like a headless chicken. Keep things to a minimum. Overloading children with too many after-school activities is not good for them. They need downtime too.<br /><br />4. Get the kids involved in cooking.<br /><br />Get some help by mobilizing your own troops - your husband and children - as your kitchen helpers. Cooking is an important life skill and now it's bonding time as well.<br /><br />5. Have an emergency plan.<br /><br />No matter how well you plan in advance, something always comes up. Plan for that as well. Always have emergency supplies in the pantry so you can throw together a home-cooked meal at a moment's notice.<br /><br />It could be a frozen dinner you prepared during the weekend. Mine is pasta, a can of tomato sauce and whatever vegetables are in the refrigerator.<br /><br />6. Post your family schedule.<br /><br />Keep a large calendar on the wall where you can see every family member's schedule at a glance. It will also help you plan activities around your family dinner times.<br /><br />7. Set a routine.<br /><br />Decide on an earlier dinner time, bedtime and wake up time and start following them a few days before school officially begins. This way, everybody's adjusted when the real thing comes.<br /><br />8. Stay flexible.<br /><br />Sometimes you just can't afford disruptions to your meal times. An occasional missed family dinner is no big deal - when you know you'll have more throughout the week.<br /><br />9. Consider school schedules.<br /><br />Take note of school events and other activities in your family calendar - so you can plan your family dinners with them in mind.<br /><br />10. Cook once, eat twice.<br /><br />Every so often, cook a double batch of meals that can easily be transformed into another entree or side dish. For example, roast 2 chickens. Have one for tonight's dinner. Chop up the other for chicken salad for later in the week.<br /><br />11. Organize your kitchen.<br /><br />If you haven't done so yet, now's the time to take stock of your kitchen. Make sure the items you use most often are accessible from your food prep area. Replace the tools that are broken, and get those gadgets that will help you get dinner ready faster.<br /><br />12. Have a special meal.<br /><br />Make Friday night Teen's night - which means they plan and prepare the meal. That is, if you have teens or any child old enough to prepare meals. They'll learn how to cook, you get the night off (from cooking), and everybody has fun. The only condition is: everybody has to eat what's prepared.<br /><br />13. Make it educational.<br /><br />This idea is for preschool-age kids. Make or buy a special placemat with letter or numbers. Laminate it with Con-Tact paper so it becomes a wipe-off board. Use it only for dinnertimes.<br /><br />14. More mealtime learning opportunities.<br /><br />Plan some meals to coincide with specific topics your child is studying in school. For example, on the night after a field trip to a pioneer town, have a pioneer-style meal.<br /><br />15. Celebrate school successes at dinner.<br /><br />Celebrate school successes with a special family meal. Prepare the child's favorite meal and prepare a nice dessert. It's more important to have a meal that's relaxed and delicious, than one that tool hours to prepare.<br /><br />16. Nurture school relationships.<br /><br />Get to know your children's closest school friends by inviting them to dinner once in a while.<br /><br />Follow these tips to make family mealtimes simpler, easier and more fun. For meal planning and grocery shopping help, <a href="http://dinewithoutwhine.com/amember/go.php?r=7597&i=l1">go to Dine Without Whine.</a><br /><br />Your monthly subscription includes a weekly meal plan with recipes for main dishes, side dishes, 2 desserts and 2 brunches.<br /><br />You'll also get a weekly grocery shopping list of everything you need to create the recipes. The list is categorized according to grocery sections, so your shopping will be easier and faster.<br /><br /><a href="http://dinewithoutwhine.com/amember/go.php?r=7597&i=l1">For a limited time, you can try Dine Without Whine for a penny. Click here to find out how.</a>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-70916107567421070712009-08-16T09:22:00.003-05:002009-08-16T09:49:25.189-05:00Time ManagementThe computer is a useful tool when it comes to increasing productivity and implementing various time management techniques. There are many ways that you can implement the use of a computer in daily activities. However, it is essential that you ensure that your computer is up to performance standard and you know the right tools to make the best use of your time. By doing this, you can easily increase productivity by using your computer for time management.<br /><br />The first way that you can implement the use of your computer for time management projects is to ensure that the internal components match those that are required for you to engage in the activities that are required. Key components that you should research on the computer that you are working with includes the memory capacity, the speed of the processor, the amount of space that your hard drive has, as well as important accessories, such as a printer and/or fax machine. You want to make certain that your computer is able to handle the processes that you require of it. If the computer does not have the performance level to complete the tasks that you need to complete, it can affect your overall productivity.<br /><br />The second way that you can increase productivity by using your computer for time management is to ensure that all the software that you require is installed on the system. For example, if you require a program to type up various letters or assignments on, and need a spreadsheet program to track changes of various things you may select to purchase Microsoft Office. If you do not have the right tools to perform your job, your overall productivity will be greatly affected. You will want to avoid installing games and similar programs on your computer as they may affect the productivity of the time management method that you are trying to implement.<br /><br />This leads us to the topic of distractions and the impact that they have on time management. There are many distractions that may occur when working on a computer. These distractions include internet games, children, checking email consistently, surfing various websites, instant messenger programs, and many other things that are similar in nature. If you find that you are having trouble getting distracted by these types of things while on a computer, simply close them out, well except for the kids :). You can designate times each day in which you can chat on messenger programs, check your email, play games, and surf the internet. This is a really good idea, especially if you are trying to work from home. If you are attempting to increase your productivity, just do not schedule these things while you are working on various projects. Allow time in your schedule for your family and your work. Doing too much in either area will result in failure.<br /><br />The last step in increasing productivity by using your computer for time management is to make sure that you organize your files in an appropriate manner on your computer. You may separate certain projects into various folders on your network. If you do not want others to view these files, simply encode them with a password. Remember to backup copies of all of your files. This way, if a technical issue arises, you still have those files tucked away safely. This becomes important if you are crunched for time or in a rush, being able to find things quickly is a life saver.<br /><br />The first tool that I would recommend to help save time on the computer would be Robo Form. RoboForm is the EASIEST and MOST SECURE way to manage your passwords, securely log into websites, fill long online forms, search the web, and more. I have been using this tool for over 2 years now and really reap the benefits. No more having to fill in forms, no more trying to remember what that darn password it. There is a free version download by clicking <a href="http://www.roboform.com/dist/affs/AiRoboForm-dawnp.exe">here</a>. You can upgrade at a later point if you have too many passwords, the free version has a limit. Check it out enjoy and save time.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-22977170183809948182009-05-10T07:14:00.001-05:002009-05-10T07:20:17.535-05:00You Can Have Power of Gratitude<o:p> </o:p><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:black;">Assessing the Power of Gratitude</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">The practice of gratitude as a tool for happiness has been in the mainstream for years. Long-term studies support gratitude’s effectiveness, suggesting that a positive, appreciative attitude contributes to greater success in work, greater health, peak performance in sports and business, a higher sense of well-being, and a faster rate of recovery from surgery. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">But while we may acknowledge gratitude’s many benefits, it still can be difficult to sustain. So many of us are trained to notice what is broken, undone or lacking in our lives. And for gratitude to meet its full healing potential in our lives, it needs to become more than just a Thanksgiving word. We have to learn a new way of looking at things, a new habit. And that can take some time.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">That’s why <i>practicing</i> gratitude makes so much sense. When we practice giving thanks for all we have, instead of complaining about what we lack, we give ourselves the chance to see all of life as an opportunity and a blessing. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">Remember that gratitude isn’t a blindly optimistic approach in which the bad things in life are whitewashed or ignored. It’s more a matter of where we put our focus and attention. Pain and injustice exist in this world, but when we focus on the gifts of life, we gain a feeling of well-being. Gratitude balances us and gives us hope. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">There are many things to be grateful for: colorful autumn leaves, legs that work, friends who listen and really hear, chocolate, fresh eggs, warm jackets, tomatoes, the ability to read, roses, our health, butterflies. What’s on your list? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style="color:black;">Some Ways to Practice Gratitude <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>Keep a gratitude journal in which you list things for which you are thankful. You can make daily, weekly or monthly lists. Greater frequency may be better for creating a new habit, but just keeping that journal where you can see it will remind you to think in a grateful way. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>Make a gratitude collage by drawing or pasting pictures. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>Practice gratitude around the dinner table or make it part of your nighttime routine. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>Make a game of finding the hidden blessing in a challenging situation.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>When you feel like complaining, make a gratitude list instead. You may be amazed by how much better you feel. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 22.5pt;"><span style="color:black;">•<span style=""> </span>Notice how gratitude is impacting your life. Write about it, sing about it, express thanks for gratitude.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="color:black;">As you practice, an inner shift begins to occur, and you may be delighted to discover how content and hopeful you are feeling. That sense of fulfillment is gratitude at work.<o:p></o:p></span></p>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-28242941406773911472009-04-27T12:24:00.003-05:002009-04-27T12:30:24.349-05:00It's Okay to Quit!I just received a great email forward from a friend of mine and I had to pass it along.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">"It's okay to Quit" by Motivational Speaker Verunda Jackson<br /></div><br /> 1. <b>Quit</b> arguing with people about the same old foolishness! Respect their position and keep it moving!<br /><br /> 2. <b>Quit</b> telling people your secrets when you know they are not going to keep them! And if you keep telling them, then <b>quit</b> getting mad when they tell your secrets!<br /><br /> 3. <b>Quit</b> trying to pull people on your journey who don't want to travel with you. Either they believe in you and value you...or they don't!<br /><br /> 4. <b>Quit</b> complaining about things you can't and won't change!<br /><br /> 5. <b>Quit</b> gossiping about other people! Minding our own business should be a full time job!<br /><br /> 6. <b>Quit</b> blaming each other for things that in the big picture aren't going to matter three weeks from now! Talk solutions...and then implement them!<br /><br /> 7. <b>Quit </b>eating things you know are not good for you! If you can't quit...eat smaller portions!<br /><br /> 8. <b>Quit</b> buying things when we know we can't afford them! If you don't have self control, then quit going to the stores! <b>Quit </b>charging things, especially when you don't NEED them!<br /><br /> 9. <b>Quit</b> staying in unhealthy relationships! It is not okay for people to verbally or physically abuse you! So <b>quit</b> lying to yourself! It is not okay to stay in the marriage for the children! Ask them and they will tell you that they really would prefer to see you happy and that the misery you and your spouse/partner are living with is affecting them!<br /><br /> 10. <b>Quit</b> letting family members rope you into the drama! -Start telling them you don't want to hear it! <b>Quit</b> spreading the drama! <b>Quit</b> calling other relatives and telling them about your cousin<span style="color: rgb(79, 79, 79);">,uncle,</span>or aunt! Go back to #5 minding your own business should be enough to keep you busy!<br /><br /> 11. <b>Quit</b> trying to change people! IT DOESN'T WORK! <b>Quit</b> cussing people out when you know that they are just being the miserable and jealous people that they are!<br /><br /> 12. <b>Quit</b> the job you hate! Start pursuing your passion. Find the job that fuels your passion BEFORE you <b>quit</b>!<br /><br /> 13. <b>Quit</b> volunteering for things that you aren't getting any personal fulfillment from anymore! <b>Quit</b> volunteering for things and then failing to follow through with your commitment!<br /><br /> 14. <b>Quit</b> listening to the naysayers! <b>Quit</b> watching the depressing news if you are going to live in the doom and gloom of it all!<br /><br /> 15. <b>Quit</b> making excuses about why you are where you are or why you can't do what you want to do!<br /><br /> 16. <b>Quit</b> waiting on others to give you the answers...and start finding the answers for yourself! If what you are doing isn't working for you...then <b>quit</b> it!<br /><br /> 17. <b>Quit</b> settling and start making your dreams a reality!- <b>Quit</b> being afraid and START LIVING YOUR LIFE! CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT! If you want something different than what you have had in the past...you must <b>quit</b> doing what you have done before and DO something different! JUST <b>QUIT</b> IT ...... and START DOING something to create the experience you want!<br /> <o:p></o:p><p></p>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-30507647757845344002009-04-14T12:17:00.002-05:002009-04-14T12:27:28.376-05:00Why you should try for more family meals at home?When was the last time your family had a meal together? I don't mean sitting in the car munching on burgers from the drive-through. I mean sitting down at the table and sharing a home-cooked meal. (Family dinners are truly a challenge in my home, as my husband is generally working at dinner time. Many times for us it's lunch or breakfast that becomes our "family" meal)<br /><br />If you can't remember when you last enjoyed a family meal, make plans to have them more often. Experts have found - and continue to discover - plenty of benefits for both children and adults when families have meals together at least three times a week.<br /><br />I know...I know, it's not always easy, so <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://dinewithoutwhine.com/amember/go.php?r=7597&i=l10"><br />click here if you need help with meal planning and grocery shopping</a>.<br /><br />Here are 10 reasons why you should have family meals more<br />often:<br /><br />Good For The Body<br /><br />1. When families eat together, everyone tends to eat healthier. People who have frequent family meals consume more calcium, fiber, iron, and vitamins B6, B12, C and E. It could be because home-cooked meals are healthier than fast food and restaurant meals. (Source: Archives of Family Medicine)<br /><br />2. Children tend to eat more fruits and vegetables when they frequently have dinner with their families. They also tend to eat fewer snack foods. (Source: American Dietetic Association)<br /><br />3. Children in families who eat dinner together are less likely to be overweight (Source: Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine). This makes sense, given the findings in #1 and #2 above.<br /><br />Good For The Brain<br /><br />4. Children from families who eat meals together get better grades than their peers who don't have lots of family meal times (Source: Lou Harris-Reader's Digest National Poll). So family dinners are not only good for the body; they're also good for the brain.<br /><br />5. When families eat together frequently, children have better language skills compared to kids from families who don't have family mealtimes often. (Source: Harvard University)<br /><br />Good For Emotional Health<br /><br />6. Children of families who eat together report feeling happier and are more optimistic about the future, than their peers who have infrequent family meals. (Source: Lou Harris- Reader's Digest National Poll)<br /><br />7. Teenagers are less likely to use drugs, smoke, and drink alcoholic drinks, when their families eat together regularly. (Source: Columbia University)<br /><br />8. It may come as a surprise, but among Moms who work outside the home, those who have family mealtimes reported feeling less stress than those who had family dinners less often. (Source: Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal)<br /><br />9. The more often teen girls had meals with their families, the less likely they were to have symptoms of depression and suicidal behaviors. (Source: University of Minnesota)<br /><br />Good for Family Bonding<br /><br />10. Eating together gives family members the chance to communicate and build relationships, something that both adults and children appreciate very much. (Source: Nutrition Education Network of Washington & Oprah Winfrey's "Family Dinner Experiment")<br /><br />I hope these reasons motivate you and your family to try and eat together more often. We're all busy - even children have plenty of after-school activities. But as the list above shows, family meals are worth every effort we put into them.<br />It helps to plan ahead so that we're not scrambling to get dinner ready or panicking because we don't have all the ingredients we need.<br /><br />To make it easier to get the family around the table with a home-cooked meal, check out <a href="http://www.blogger.com/7597&i=l10">Dine Without Whine's menu planning service</a>. It cost just a penny to try it out!dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-33704491963882536392009-02-17T13:11:00.002-06:002009-02-17T13:15:07.968-06:00Support us in the 2009 StartupNation Leading Moms in Business Competition<a href="http://www.startupnation.com/leading-moms-2009/contestant/4692/index.php">Support us in the 2009 StartupNation Leading Moms in Business Competition</a><br /><br />Please vote and support the moms entered here, including me.<br /><br />Posted using <a href="http://sharethis.com/">ShareThis</a>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-20535324556385285032009-02-11T08:01:00.001-06:002009-02-11T08:01:27.484-06:00Happy Rainy morning today, it's better than snow.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-26240068545340068252009-02-10T17:47:00.001-06:002009-02-10T17:47:15.064-06:00Time to take boys to dinner, fundraiser for the school. I'll be back on later tonightdawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-5696337123285651932009-02-10T16:38:00.001-06:002009-02-10T16:38:22.953-06:00Gotta go clean up the house a little and get ready for my date with the boys.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-35360401313786892009-02-10T08:01:00.001-06:002009-02-10T08:01:21.294-06:00Feeling like I got some work done this am, emails still piling up, but time to attend to the family. Be back later.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-65061385818344297952009-02-02T15:09:00.003-06:002009-02-02T15:29:58.071-06:00Motherhood LessonsI haven't blogged here in quite some time but, I was tagged by my friends Alyssa Avant who posted at <a href="http://www.momstalknetwork.com/resources/my-biggest-mistake-motherhood-lessons/">Mom's Resource Blog</a> to do a post on Motherhood Lessons.<br /><br />"You never really appreciate what your parents did for you until...."<br /><br />From the day I was born I had asthma, although it did take time a few scares before it was diagnosed correctly. Over the course of my young life I spent lots of time in doctors offices and ER's. While my family did not stop doing the things they wanted to do, I was always taken care of.<br /><br />Let me preface this by stating that from the day my second son was born, I knew he was going to be the one affected with my asthma. You have a 50% chance of passing it down, and with two children I figured one would have it.<br /><br />So last August after 2 prior visits and 1 time I didn't take my son to the doctor and spent the night with him in the bathroom with shower running so he could sleep. My son was having problems breathing again. This time I wasn't taking no for an answer, 3 times in 3 months is not a cold or whatever else they wanted to call it and tell me to wait it out.<br /><br />I took him to our local immediate care (our family doctor is over 1 hr away and closed on Thursday which is when my kids always get sick). They said yes he was wheezing, but refused to call it asthma. Did breathing treatments to no avail. Sent to ER where he was given another breathing treatment and meds and finally started getting better.<br /><br />My little guy was being very good about it the whole time, as we kept telling him that this would make him feel better or that would make him feel better. (side note: I am starting to cry just trying to retell the story). Right before my husband arrived at the hospital to join us, my little man but Mama I'm not feeling better. I just about lost it. <br /><br />I am very calm and cool when it comes to asthma and dealing with it, but when your 2 year old tells you the doctors aren't making you better it is very hard to take.<br /><br />So thanks mom for all those years you Took care of me. I finally learned what it truly means when Moms say this hurts me more than it hurts you.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-3369998068447827142008-11-28T00:01:00.002-06:002008-11-28T00:01:01.127-06:00Discount Code/ Black FridayI am putting together discount codes for those of us who prefer to shop online instead of fighting the lines and crabby shoppers at 4 am on Friday. Or those like myself who's husband has to work on Friday and there ain't no way he can watch the boys.<br /><br />Let's get this party stated<br /><a href="http://www.dinewithoutwhine.com/amember/go.php?r=7597&i=l0">Dine Without Whine</a> - get your kids to the table and Eating, Meal planning<br /><br /><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&offerid=100462.10001122&type=3&subid=0">Send gift baskets from 1-800-Flowers today!</a><img src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&bids=100462.10001122&type=3&subid=0" border="0" width="1" height="1" /><br />Save 15% on your order, enter code MARTHA59<br /><br /><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&offerid=136731.10000009&type=3&subid=0">Great Gifts for everyone on your list at CurrentCatalog.com -PERSONALIZED FREE</a><img src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&bids=136731.10000009&type=3&subid=0" border="0" width="1" height="1" /><br />15% off orders of $60+ PLUS FREE shipping on $45+<br />10% off ANY ORDER at CurrentLabels.com when you enter promo code RWLS10 at checkout<br /><br />Gourmet Gifts Baskets<br /><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&offerid=148620.10000049&type=3&subid=0">One day only! Coupon good for $15 off a $100 purchase! Use code CYBER15 at check out.</a><img src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&bids=148620.10000049&type=3&subid=0" border="0" width="1" height="1" /><br /><br />Lego Deals<br /><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&offerid=115554.10000222&type=3&subid=0">Feast Your Eyes on These Savings with the LEGO 'Black Friday' Offer! Save $10 on your order over $100, Save $20 on your order over $200, or save $30 on your order over $300! This promotion is valid 11-28-08 through 12-01-08.</a><br /><br /><img src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=N2sFMhxj1lQ&bids=115554.10000222&type=3&subid=0" border="0" width="1" height="1" />dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-57420871995639469362008-11-27T06:00:00.000-06:002008-11-27T06:00:03.244-06:00Always Give Thanks Today and Everyday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ejB5XPy3lMU/SSv-DPWEwOI/AAAAAAAAAIc/dzdOoE1ieLI/s1600-h/thanksgiving_table.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ejB5XPy3lMU/SSv-DPWEwOI/AAAAAAAAAIc/dzdOoE1ieLI/s200/thanksgiving_table.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272587120379478242" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Thanksgiving In America - Today we see the history<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">When people think of Thanksgiving, most remember the story of the Pilgrims and the Indians at Plymouth Rock. The Pilgrims first arrived in America on December 11, 1620, not prepared for the winter they were about to face. Out of the 102 who arrived on the Mayflower, forty-six of the people died during the first few months. Despite the devastation, they had a good harvest, partly in thanks to the Indians who lived nearby.<br /><br />They had a traditional British Harvest Feast in thanks to God for surviving and the blessings of provisions that would see them through the winter. In contrast to our modern Thanksgiving menu, they actually had more meat than vegetables, including venison, fish and wild foul, which may or may not have actually been turkey. They probably didn't have much in the way of desserts, as they didn't have a lot of flour or sugar on hand. They probably had some fruits and corn. Instead of pumpkin pie, they probably had boiled pumpkin. The first Thanksgiving feast lasted for three days.<br /><br />Thanksgiving was not an annual event in the U.S. for many years. In 1623, there was a drought and instead of having a celebration, the Pilgrims held a prayer service. When their prayers were answered the next day, they invited their Indian friends to join them in another Thanksgiving observance.<br /><br />June 20, 1676 was celebrated as a day of Thanksgiving in Charlestown, Massachusetts. However this was very different than the first Thanksgiving. This was to celebrate a victory over the Indians. Another victory, this time over the British, was celebrated in October of 1677 by all of the thirteen colonies. George Washington established the first national Thanksgiving day in 1789, however not everyone thought it was a good idea, including Thomas Jefferson.<br /><br />It wasn't until 1863 that what we know as our modern Thanksgiving came into being. Sarah Josepha Hale decided to promote Thanksgiving in her magazine, Boston Ladies' Magazine and in Godey's Lady's Book. She also wrote letters to different governors and presidents. Abraham Lincoln finally established Thanksgiving as the last Thursday in November. The date was changed a few times (to the third Thursday), but in 1941 was finally established on its current date, the fourth Thursday in November.<br /><br />Over the years, it has drifted away from its original focus on being thankful. It has become a day to eat and watch football. While those aren't bad things, it is good for people to take the time to actually be thankful for their blessings.<br /><br />I am Thankful for my readers and passerby's to this blog. Thank you.<br />I am Thankful for my family and friends and their support.<br />I am Thankful to all those that have given me free or paid information that has helped me in my online journey.<br />I am Thankful for my struggles, without them I forget to appreciate what we do have<br /></div></div>dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-58567990021858204882008-11-26T08:00:00.000-06:002008-11-26T08:00:02.757-06:00Family Thanksgiving Ideas - At the last minuteAre you a last minute person? Here are some last minute ideas for Thanksgiving Fun.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Fun Family Thanksgiving Ideas<br /></span></div><br />Thanksgiving is always a fun time of celebration and eating with your family. Here are some ways to make Thanksgiving even more fun for your family this year.<br /><br />Thankful cards – Make a card for each family member that will be your guest for Thanksgiving this year. On each card, tell that person what you love most about them, and why you are thankful for them.<br /><br />Recipe books – Call each member attending your feast and ask for a copy their favorite recipe. When you have all the recipes ready, compile them into a booklet and print them, using your computer and printer. (You can also use professional services, if you wish, to make a longer-lasting recipe book.) You then hand them out at the next family gathering.<br /><br />Mini family scrapbooks – Gather family pictures, if you don’t have many pictures, take them to a local copier and have extra prints made. Purchase mini scrapbooks at a scrapbook supply store, along with stickers, markers and various scrapbook supplies. Create miniature family scrapbooks, using one picture per page. Write what you are thankful for, in relation to each family member, on their designated pages. On Thanksgiving Day, give a copy of your mini family scrapbooks to each family member as a memento.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-25060049183099263502008-11-25T16:40:00.000-06:002008-11-25T16:41:34.783-06:00Thanksgiving Dinner - Now whatSeven Things You Can Do After Thanksgiving Dinner (Besides Nap)<br /><br />Every year, families all across the country have their Thanksgiving traditions, one of which is taking a nap after a huge meal. So, instead of doing nothing all afternoon, Here are a few actives to keep your bodies moving and burn off some of those extra calories. <br /><br />1. Take a walk - while it may seem simple, just the act of taking a walk will wake you up after the feast, as well as being very healthy for you. Go enjoy the fall leaves, see who can collect the prettiest ones along the way.<br /><br />2. Touch football - instead of watching the bowl games, organize your own backyard bowl game. Call it the Potatoes and Gravy Bowl if you want. <br /><br />3. Volunteer - take some time out of your Thanksgiving to give back to those who don't have as much. There is probably a shelter or soup kitchen that is looking for people to help serve meals to the homeless. Consider making it a regular family activity, even year round.<br /><br />4. Put on a play - have the children reenact the first Thanksgiving. A few simple costumes made out of paper bags, and they can put on a delightful show for the family. Don't leave the grownups out of the action; have them improvise some scenes with the children as well.<br /><br />5. Winter sports - if it's cold enough to have recently snowed, have a sled riding party. If you don't have a large enough hill, try a nearby park instead. Have a snowball fight or build a snowman. Ice-skating is another fun activity, and there may even be an indoor rink (but they might not be open due to the holiday, so it's a good idea to call first.)<br /><br />6. Turkey Hunt - take a stuffed turkey, or paper turkey, and hide it in the house or yard, weather permitting. The first person to find the turkey gets to hide it the next time. Keep playing till everyone's had a turn to hide the turkey.<br /><br />7. Turkey Bowling - make turkey bowling pins out of two-liter bottles. Fill them with a little sand to weight them down and spray paint them brown. Let the kids decorate them with paint or feathers. Set them up and then try to roll a turkey (three strikes in a row). If you have a lot of people, you can make more than one set to keep the action going.<br /><br />It's easy to just curl up and let the turkey take over after a large meal, but it is a good idea to get up and get moving and make memories that last a lifetime. The fact that it also happens to be good for you is an added bonus.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-26398098976551173942008-11-25T15:50:00.002-06:002008-11-25T15:54:27.112-06:00Tuesday Toot - 11/25/08<a href="http://mommycommunity.com/index.php/category/this-weeks-toot/" target="_Blank"><img src="http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg230/mcowner/TT-button.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I happy to announce that I obtained my first client for my Social Media Virtual Assistant business (BeSocialWorldwide.com) and have her profiles set up and working.<br /><br />My sons first ever parent/teacher conference went great.<br /><br />Toot Toot to me this week.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2850680516068711387.post-58436730068205628042008-11-20T08:00:00.001-06:002008-11-20T08:00:02.281-06:00Take a Break<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ejB5XPy3lMU/SSI9itjFBrI/AAAAAAAAAHw/ivvs0PzSXdM/s1600-h/thanksgiving_table.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ejB5XPy3lMU/SSI9itjFBrI/AAAAAAAAAHw/ivvs0PzSXdM/s200/thanksgiving_table.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269842180528473778" border="0" /></a><br />Today we are going to take a break from being a WAHM and talk about Thanksgiving. People who work outside the home get a break from there work, so why shouldn't you.<br /><br />Here are some tips to keep the stress out of Thanksgiving:<br /><br />So how do we have a stress free Thanksgiving dinner? Here are a few simple tips to have a more enjoyable Thanksgiving dinner.<br /><br />1. Plan ahead - While planning the Thanksgiving meal, do you plan who is going to help? Instead of doing it all yourself, recruit your family to help. Not only will the work go faster, it's more fun working together. Make a list of what needs to be done before everyone arrives. Give everyone something to do and assign things that are age appropriate to the children. Before you know it, the leftovers will be wrapped in foil and everyone will have had a great time.<br /><br />2. Covered dish meal - If you are having a large group for Thanksgiving, divide the menu amongst all those attending. The host family can provide the main dish (turkey or ham) and the drinks. Each family brings a favorite side dish and dessert. If you want to make sure there is a variety, provide a menu and mark things off as people chose what they want to fix.<br /><br />3. Simplify - Instead of having a huge feast, prepare a smaller meal. We all tend to overeat at Thanksgiving, so make an effort to make fewer dishes. Not only will the preparation be smaller, so will our waistlines. Another option is to prepare as much ahead of time as you can. Slow cookers can be used to make all kinds of foods, even desserts. Many things can also be made as "freezer meals" and stored for weeks before re-heating them. The less actual cooking you need to do on Thanksgiving, the lower your stress levels will be.<br /><br />4. Family harmony - While you can't make everyone happy, there are ways to promote a peaceful, relaxing dinner. Use place cards to put the people who tend to bicker further away from each other during dinner. This will help alleviate some of the tensions.<br /><br />5. Be thankful - Simply taking the time to be thankful for all your blessings can reduce your stress level. Before everyone arrives, take the time to list all that you're thankful for over the last year. Have everyone share their blessings before dinner. Having a better attitude will help everyone enjoy the day more.<br /><br />Stress doesn't have to ruin the holidays. If you stop to smell the turkey, and plan ahead, you can have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Planning and organization, while not great fun, can help you enjoy things later once all the guests arrive.dawntreneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17974996827058539761noreply@blogger.com0