THE WINNING WOMAN................ everything woman with style

A Woman's Heart

2009-11-09T09:43:00.001-06:00

Have you ever thought about why women are feared so much by men?

I did, and today, through observations, conversations, education, I learned a great many things about women.

A woman is passionate - right or wrong, she can be passionate, thus easily deceived by those who would choose to take ad

From: http://ping.fm/llCMR

BANDWIDTH EXCEEDED!!

2009-06-24T09:18:00.001-05:00

BANDWIDTH EXCEEDED -

these words were staring me in the face as I opened my blogger to post another article. Panic set in, because, I had no idea what Bandwidth exceeded meant, nor did I know what to do. I quickly entered these words in the search bar to see if there was a good explanation for this - apparently there was, since my site was being hosted free, it was getting too much traffic, and therefore, it had gone beyond its capabilities to support my site.

What to do? What to do? Aha, twitter...so I entered my query and got some interesting answers, all the same really, from congratulations, to time to upgrade, get your own hosting, server, etc. People are so great there, so much knowledge and information to be found and the answers come unconditionally. Community - we have it there!

Ultimately, the decision had to made, time to move. And so without further ado I invite every Winning Woman to our new address which is:

Beginning July 1st, we will unveil our new site and hope that you will join us, enjoy and help it grow.

Letterman apologizes to Sarah Palin - is it for Real or Ratings?

2009-06-16T21:58:00.000-05:00

Do you see a pattern here? I do! And it isn't pretty. Apparently, it is open territory for men to spout degrading diatribes about women and be paid for doing so, senators, congressmen, and now TV personalities are jumping into the the cesspool along with Howard Stern and other males who use women as a means of gaining fame? Fortune?

Last night David Letterman offered an apology, which I am willing to guess was a pressure-filled negotiation with him, as sponsors do not want to be affiliated with a male who jokes about the rape and sexual abuse of underage girls taking target at a woman's daughter who serves for our country as a leader. Her meager salary compared to the fortunes made off of her by Tina Fey and others who seem to think it is okay to taunt and verbally attack and abuse those who may not agree with their thinking. Their lack of maturity and character shows not only how definable the lack of tolerance is, but that tolerance is only by their conditions. IF, it had been said by a "conservative" talk show host the hatchets would have been out and the cries of racism, prejudice and impropriety would have been front page news. So I ask, IF the conservatives are a greater number, why aren't we more vocal and more assertive in our beliefs and moral statutes?

The convenience in Letterman's apology is that by doing so, he settles the natives and those who watch the ratings and the bottom line. Having to take responsibility is refreshing by today's standards, but if one reads carefully, the apology is very Clintonian. A misspoken and misunderstood and misinterpreted "joke" is what he says he is taking responsibility for. I would have preferred him inviting a woman's advocacy group that represents young women who were raped and abused by men to share statistics on the severity of this loose and irresponsibly spoken "joke".

It is shameful that even women take sides against each other and instead of expressing honorable indignation over this comment,which if they had daughters, would be horrified that any older man would even suggest such a comment on national television, instead they shrug it off as if it was only targeting this family.

The failure for these women and the womens' organizations is that they are not representing women at all but an agenda that has over time sucked them into the world of greed and partisanship at the cost of women overall.

The movie of The Stoning of Sariah shows the abuse of women in Iran, the human trafficking and sexual slavery which occurs on a daily basis around the world including here in America, with pedophiles and child pornographers who prey on women and children as objects of income - is no joke. Any and all comments or jokes that would even hint that this horrific and degrading behavior is to be taken lightly is appalling and unacceptable on many levels.

The pure motive in my own opinion of Letterman's apology doesn't even come close to the potential harm he has inflicted in the minds of perverts and males who are already challenged by indecency flaunted in a fantasy world of magazines, movies and even television.

With the abduction of young women and children here is the USA, the human slavery and trafficking that goes on daily, the "honor" killings, disfigurement of girls bodies, the killing of unborn children, and the selling of bodies for sexual abusive purposes indicates the lowest level people have arrived at. The putrid stench of man's greed at any cost, the special interest groups, the baby-killers, and abusers of women whether in the home or on the screen continues to show our "advanced" state of progressive thinking is nothing more than a sham and a lie.

More now, than ever before, we need to raise our voices and the voices of our men who believe in the empowerment, encouragement, esteem and equality for women, as God has shown, when Jesus, the first Women's advocate set a woman free from being stoned to death by men who were never called out for their behavior.

Letterman offers full apology to Palins and all is well. We can go about our lives and think that he was so mature and brave for taking blame and apologizing.
Sorry folks, I don't buy it - its all about ratings and the mighty dollar. He did nothing to advance or help repair the breach with women at all. As Sarah Palin said, he is "pathetic".

Here is the transcript of his apology by Tim Molloy, TV Guide June 15,2009

Letterman Offers Full Apology to Palins

Jun 15, 2009 08:47 PM ET
by Tim Molloy

David Letterman

After a semi-apology last week for a joke about one of Sarah Palin's daughters, David Letterman offered an unequivocal sorry during Monday's Late Show monologue "to the two daughters involved, Bristol and Willow, and also to the governor and her family and everybody else who was outraged by the joke."

Letterman joked last week that Palin's daughter was "knocked up" by Alex Rodriguez during a Yankees game. Though he didn't specify which daughter, he said he meant 18-year-old Bristol Palin. The family, however, said the joke targeted 14-year-old Willow, who attended the game with her mother.

Letterman made the full apology Monday after a group called "Fire David Letterman" demanded his removal and Embassy Suites pulled ads from CBS' website over the joke. He said the joke had been misinterpreted, but that it was his fault.

Palin said in a statement that she accepted the apology "on behalf of all young women, like my daughters, who hope men who 'joke' about public displays of sexual exploitation of girls will soon evolve."

A representative for the "Fire David Letterman" campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Letterman's apology Monday, as provided by CBS:

"All right, here — I've been thinking about this situation with Governor Palin and her family now for about a week — it was a week ago tonight, and maybe you know about it, maybe you don't know about it. But there was a joke that I told, and I thought I was telling it about the older daughter being at Yankee Stadium. And it was kind of a coarse joke. There's no getting around it, but I never thought it was anybody other than the older daughter, and before the show, I checked to make sure in fact that she is of legal age, 18. Yeah. But the joke really, in and of itself, can't be defended. The next day, people are outraged. They're angry at me because they said, 'How could you make a lousy joke like that about the 14-year-old girl who was at the ball game?' And I had, honestly, no idea that the 14-year-old girl, I had no idea that anybody was at the ball game except the Governor and I was told at the time she was there with Rudy Giuliani...And I really should have made the joke about Rudy..." (audience applauds)

"But I didn't, and now people are getting angry and they're saying, 'Well, how can you say something like that about a 14-year-old girl, and does that make you feel good to make those horrible jokes about a kid who's completely innocent, minding her own business,' and, turns out, she was at the ball game. I had no idea she was there. So she's now at the ball game and people think that I made the joke about her. And, but still, I'm wondering, 'Well, what can I do to help people understand that I would never make a joke like this?' I've never made jokes like this as long as we've been on the air, 30 long years, and you can't really be doing jokes like that. And I understand, of course, why people are upset. I would be upset myself.

"And then I was watching the Jim Lehrer Newshour — this commentator, the columnist Mark Shields, was talking about how I had made this indefensible joke about the 14-year-old girl, and I thought, 'Oh, boy, now I'm beginning to understand what the problem is here. It's the perception rather than the intent.' It doesn't make any difference what my intent was, it's the perception. And, as they say about jokes, if you have to explain the joke, it's not a very good joke. And I'm certainly — " (Audience applause.) "— thank you. Well, my responsibility — I take full blame for that. I told a bad joke. I told a joke that was beyond flawed, and my intent is completely meaningless compared to the perception. And since it was a joke I told, I feel that I need to do the right thing here and apologize for having told that joke. It's not your fault that it was misunderstood, it's my fault. That it was misunderstood." (Audience applauds.) "Thank you. So I would like to apologize, especially to the two daughters involved, Bristol and Willow, and also to the Governor and her family and everybody else who was outraged by the joke. I'm sorry about it and I'll try to do better in the future. Thank you very much." (audience applause)

CBS David Letterman NBC Boycott & Suspension Petition Information

2009-06-13T21:17:00.001-05:00

During my radio conversation this afternoon with host Randell Byrd of WGCR1250AM we covered a hot topic which I want to post and update you with information regarding this "pedophile and Sexual Predator's" comments regarding or suggesting the rape and defilement of an underage girl, cast as a "joke" on public television.

This was not only distasteful, but degrading, obscene, promoting sex with an underage child, with the talking heads in support of Letterman and showing no signs of moral decency or outrage.

Winning Woman friends - you have the POWER to make a difference and put the heat on this despicable debacle of subversive and base behavior that cannot be tolerated by any woman regardless of race or political positions.

This is an OUTRAGE that needs your voice to stop the subtle and continual abuse of women as sex objects, objects of sexual discussion, jokes, commercials, product spots, etc. And the continuation of acceptance of this horrific comment was embraced by NBC Early Today Show that just did not understand why this mother would be so upset that Letterman called her slut, her daughter called a prostitute and knocked - up???!!!

Apparently NBC and CBS think that calling women degrading names and defaming their character along with implying that it is okay to taunt an underage child sexually are acceptable behavior.

To effectuate our position as Winning Women who fight for our families, our children and their protection, I am asking you to take seriously the list below, refuse to support them and find alternate sources for these products.

Additionally, if you can, please contact the companies listed and the execs listed at CBS, NBC along with the FCC to voice your anger and horror that such anti-woman, anti-children comments are allowed to made on public television.

Here is a partial list and if you have others I missed, please let me know so I can post those to this list. Let's make our voices heard, keep our money away from their pockets, put the heat of our strength as parents and women to affect their bottom line profits and rating by not supporting the actions of these people and companies.

Best Western
Best Western International, Inc.
Customer Relations Department
Telephone: 1-800-528-1238
Fax: 623-780-6199
Email: customerservice@bestwestern.com
Regular Mail: PO Box 10203
Phoenix, AZ 85064
Attn: Customer Service

Capitol One
Capital One Financial Corporation 1
680 Capital One Drive McLean, VA 22102
Telephone: 703-720-1000

DiTech financial or lending?

Mars Candy
Mars North America
100 International Drive
Mount Olive, NJ 07828
Telephone: 1-800-627-7852
Fax:973-691-3829
http://www.mars.com/global/News+and+Media

EBay
eBay Inc.
2145 Hamilton Avenue
San Jose, CA 95125
Media relations;408-376-7458
Contact page http://news.ebay.com/about.cfm

John Freida
Consumer Relations Dept
Kao Brands Company
2535 Spring Grove Ave
Cincinnati, OH 45214
telephone: 1-800-521-3189
Contact page: http://www.johnfrieda.com

Intel
Corporate Mailing Address
2200 Mission College Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95054-1549
Telephone: 405-765-8080
Contact page: http://www.intel.com/feedback

LasikPlus
7840 Montgomery Road
Cincinnati OH 45236
Telephone: 513-792-9292
Toll-Free: 800-688-4550
Fax: 513-792-5620
Email: bkise@lca.com
Contact page http://www.lasikplus.com/ir/contacts.html

ancestry.com
The Generations Network, Inc.
Attn: Customer Solutions,
360 W 4800 N Provo, UT 84604
Telehone: 801-705-7000
FAX: 801-705-7001
mediarelations@ancestry.com
Contact page http://www.myfamilyinc.com

Earn My Degree
WCS
157 Yesler Way Suite 200
Seattle WA
United States 98121
telephone: 206-812-4653
information@worldclassstrategy.com

True Credit
TrueCredit
100 Cross Street, Suite 202
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Telephoone: 866-212-2170

Bowflex –
Nautilus, Inc.
Global Headquarters
16400 SE Nautilus Drive
Vancouver, WA 98683
Telephone: 360 859 2900
Email: PublicRelations@nautilus.com
Contact http://www.bowflexrevolution.com/nautilus_incorporated

On The Border Restaurants
Brinker International
6820 LBJ Freeway
Dallas, TX 75240
Telephone: 972-980-9917 Toll-Free:1-800-983-4637
Contact http://www.ontheborder.com/contact

Lifelock
60 E Rio Salado Pkwy
Ste 400
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-682-5100
http://www.lifelock.com/about-us/about-lifelock/contact-us
Contact page has the names & email addresses of executives

Embassy Suites
Dawn Ray/Nancy Gearin
Embassy Suites Hotels
Telephone: 901-374-5954 Fax: 901-374-6423
dawn.ray@hilton.com
nancy.gearin@hilton.com
Contact page – http://embassysuites1.hilton.com

CBSports.com
Headquarters
2200 West Cypress Creek Road
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Phone: (954) 351-2120
Contact page: http://www.cbssports.com

General Motors and Lexus Car Companies - you can find them on web, but you don't have to buy their products.

Their Mother Ship:

CBS Telephone: 212 975-4321 & Contact Information;
Surprisingly , there are women on this list of execs at CBS (wonder if they dare not speak up for fear of losing their jobs?)Copy and paste these addresses into your mail to send letters to these executives;
~ nina.tassler@cbs.com
~ kelly.kahl@cbs.com
~ kim.sartor@cbs.com
~ les.moonves@cbs.com

FCC.gov - to remove/suspend

Sarah Palin has not deserved any of this harrassment and deserves to be supported by all women. This is NOT about political affiliations, this is about our Womanhood being attacked! Where are the voices for women? The leaders of NOW and other women's organizations? Who put out the fire?

The REASON for this Winning Woman's TroopWalk 2009 (edited)

2009-05-28T22:53:00.000-05:00

Image by Army.mil via Flickr

From Ruth -

Hello to those of you following this TroopWalk 2009 journey!

I appreciate your interest in this event and so do our military service members, veterans, and their families. We are receiving so many emails every day now that I am overwhelmed with appreciation early on in this event, but that volume of correspondence makes it difficult to answer each and every person who contacts me/us to directly.

I appreciate each and every one of you – more than you know – so please keep those emails and text messages coming! You keep me upright, focused, and your support helps me keep moving those tired, achy feet forward on the path to completing a much-needed mission!

There is something I would like our followers to understand:

This TroopWalk 2009 event is about the Founder and President of Inspiring Alliance Military Support Network, a nonprofit service organization that provides transitional support to our military audience, setting aside 5 months or more of her life to make a statement about the unmet needs of our service members, our veterans, and those unsung heroes who support them — the spouses and children who are also affected by sacrifices made by every member of our Armed Forces!

Although my sacrifices seem small in comparison to those made by our soldiers, Marines, airmen and sailors, we think it is important for people to understand I am a single woman who has given up my income, my home, my vehicle, my social life (contact with church, family, and friends), and I have set aside my for-profit business in order to be able to invest however many months are necessary to travel from Walter Reed Army Medical Center to the Naval Medical Center San Diego to make a statement on behalf of those individuals Inspiring Alliance serves.

I have listened to countless stories about the challenges our service members face – everything from not being able to find a job when an individual shifts from military service to civilian life to stories of loss of homes, forced bankruptcies and even extended waits of up to 18 months for some of our wounded warriors to receive their first disability check after they have applied for government support. We all recognize the system is flawed, but I wonder how many people think about how issues like this affect the very core of our country.

Stop for a moment to recognize that every service member puts his or her life on hold — in much the same way I have (except that they get paid a wage during their military tenure and I have no income source except for donations and gifts of food or lodging during the tour). In addition, entire families – not just a spouse and children, but extended families – are also affected during that time our nation’s heroes are protecting our freedoms!

Let’s come together, America, and show our support for all these brave men and women do on our behalf. Let’s show them how much we appreciate them as you join me on the sidewalks of VA, WV, OH, IN, IL, MO, KS, CO, UT, NV, and CA to share your understanding of the true price that is paid for Freedom! We love and appreciate all our service members, veterans, and their families do for us — let’s get up out of that chair and off that sofa and PROVE IT!

God bless you all, and God bless our Armed Forces!

Click on map below to see where Ruth is at, and don't forget to donate to the cause at;

http://www.troopwalk.com

Day ONE - Ruth our Winning Woman Trooper

2009-05-26T11:57:00.005-05:00

Image by Old Shoe Woman via Flickr

Day One -

As Ruth bowed her head in prayer and remembrance for the many troops who have fought for our freedom, she thought about the fact that she is ready to take her first step on this walk across America alone. No cheering crowds, no media coverage, just one woman, alone with a big heart and desire to help raise awareness for the troops.
Finishing her quiet time, she gazed up and looked toward the Walter Reed Army Hospital and saw two silhouettes waving at her. Thanking God for this encouragement, she began the first day of her 5 month journey at 8AM yesterday, Memorial Day 2009...

Ruth finished her first day walking 27-1/2 miles for the TROOPWALK.com Fundraising event. Sore calves, aching toes, a right foot with 5 broken bones, tired, and exhausted physically but she is excited about the journey and hopes to meet the families of military and supporters of our troops along the way.

If you are able to walk a few minutes, a mile or give words of encouragement as she comes to your town, please come out and meet her.

If you have a hotel, motel, restaurant and can offer food & drink and a place to stay for the night, it would be such a blessing to her.
Please let us know how you can help!

WE have SPOT satellite monitoring with accuracy with her location to let you know where she is.

Keep the prayers and support coming!

Donate Here;

http://www.inspiringalliance.org

The One Flaw in Women

2009-05-10T15:18:00.000-05:00

Women have strengths that amaze men.

They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they
think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what
makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their
family and friends.

Women have vital things to say
and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

Share this with a friend and family members
to remind them just how amazing they are.

Remember that everyday you are a Winning Woman!

Mother's Day - A Day of Celebration

2009-05-04T00:59:00.002-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

Happy Mother's Day the kids are shouting and squealing with delight at the prospect of all the secret ideas the have concocted with dad to spoil mom on this special day.

Oh the childish excitement and giddyness that flows through the house, as the kids are trying to keep quiet making breakfast for mom, setting the table, perhaps even cutting flowers from the garden to decorate with.

Shhh, she's coming they whisper so loud the neighbors can hear. But she takes it with a smile and plays along with her family knowing that they know she knows too.

How fun, and what a happy day - Mom is treated like a queen for a day, along with all the wonderful treats and surprises only kids could conjure up with true creativity.

Will the boxes she opens be a string of pearls, or a diamond ring? No, most likely it will be those special drawings and paper wrapped boxes that are called to be the caretakers of Mom's Jewelry that will be the delight of her life. Made with love, by her children, she embraces and lovingly touches each one as if they were indeed precious gems.

Her children surprise her with flowers in a vase and a box of chocolates, which they handpicked, and now are eagerly awaiting the unfolding of the covers that reveal this wonderful delicacy, which they want to partake of with her.

A family, safe, secure, blessed, enjoying the wonderful gift of children that God has given them.

Now, its Dad's turn; he kisses his wife in front of the children, (security for the kids, knowing that Dad and Mom love each other). He gently puts an elegant long stemmed rose without thorns into her hands and a card. As she opens and begins to read it, tears well up in the pools of her eyes. Her husband in the best way he knows declares yet again his undying love, devotion,. and faithfulness to her and the family He thanks her in front of their children for being his wife and the love of his life! It may have been a difficult year with challenges that brought them close together, but together they are stronger and their relationship is bonded by the Christ-centered vows they made to each other on their wedding day.

Sounds like a fairy tale, but it is also real for so many women who have developed strong relationships with their husband and children to celebrate this day.

I hope that you will find your day full of wonderful treats and blessings to savor and keep in your heart, till next Mother's Day.

Enjoy and celebrate today as a Winning Woman that you are!

Mother's Day - A Day of Restoration

2009-05-04T00:24:00.005-05:00

Image by joaquimb via Flickr

A woman is sitting in front of a window gently holding the fragile and delicate baby's breath and fragrant lilacs in her hands. Gazing, she seems out of touch with the world for the moment, until the rustling noise of keys brings her back into reality. It is Mother's Day. A day she dreads each year and is glad when it is over. She thinks about how things could have been different for her, she would have a child that would be calling her Mommy, but that is not to be this Mother's Day.

Instead, she goes to the grave site of the child she allowed others to take from her womb years ago as a young girl. The guilt infested her heart, and filled her with anger and sadness. Deciding she would not let it just disappear from her life like a some stain removed in the wash cycle, she opted to make a memorial of the child she could have had the joy of celebrating Mother's Day with.

Every year Mother's Day celebrations come and go. Some turn out well, and for some it is a heartbreaking, gut-wrenching, sad and disappointing day.

Many a woman has looked at this day with disdain, because, sometime, early in her life, she may have had an abortion, given up her child for adoption, due to an illness lost her child. She thinks about the fact that she is not a mother, could have been a mom, and her heart is filled with sadness, mourning over this loss.

It may be that because of various situations and circumstances, a young girl chooses to end the life of her child without fully understanding the consequences of this "choice" in years to come. Most regret this decision and live with the guilt, the pain and the sorrow for the rest of their lives.

Regardless of the reasons, it is still painful for many women to think about let alone talk about it, especially on Mother's Day.

Thankfully, we have a Heavenly Father who reaches out to us with unconditional love and forgives us, restores our soul and waters our spirits, so that we can once again become whole and begin anew. The refreshing and cleansing is the turning point for women who need to accept what was done, ask forgiveness from God and themselves, and be able to know that God will give a new beginning for those who ask!

The Bible encourages us with this; In Romans chapter 8 verse 1; So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus... He is the restorer of our soul, our being, it is the hole that He fills with His love,mercy and grace.
Grace is the undeserved favor of God,which He lavishly pours out upon His children. There is nothing you can do to deserve it, just love Him as your Savior and Lord.

When we look to celebrate this precious day of remembrance, rejoicing in our own mothers, children, grandchildren - let us be sensitive to the women who are grieving on this day. A prayer, a smile, an invitation, an extended opportunity to share God's grace and love is a wonderful and kind gift to give any woman on any day. We never know when our paths cross with the woman God has chosen for us to meet and befriend, encourage, esteem, love on, hug, and pray with.

This Mother's Day, if you are a woman who has been through the pain of such loss, or a woman who is looking to celebrate - I hope your paths cross. It just might be the most wonderful Mother's day for you both!

Every woman is loved and precious to God - without conditions, He loves you!

Celebrate the fact that you are His wonderfully created and beautiful Winning Woman!

Twitter - a Bird's Nest of Hope & Love

2009-05-01T02:24:00.002-05:00

Image by Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten via Flickr

There are those; the cynical, the nay-sayers who would challenge the idea of an online community that is like a family.

Yes, many of us are professionals looking to meet and expand our networks. Some of us have products or services that we can promote and gain clients from. All types of business people connecting with others in their field to find reprieve from the pushy side of business and be able to share ideas, attend webinars, exchange knowledge, information, and join a group.

Health issues such as; Autism,Breast Cancer, Heart Attacks, Strokes and other causes have a platform.

Politically, it has extended for many of us an eye into the throws of national and global issues without the bias of msn, and gives us information and a voice to express our concerns on subject that affect each of our lives no matter where we live. politics We can find groups such as TCOT that one can be a part of to express freely concerns about our country.

Imagine a group of guys discussing with intense brevity the biggest fish they ever caught, current trades and stats in their favorite sports or even Fantasy Football. Fantasy Football

Additionally, for women; there are the clubs, groups or organizations that draw those who would perhaps never be able to attend an actual live meeting due to children, work, illness, or financial restrictions. To find a plethora of resources, make new girlfriends to connect with, develop and share special friendships with, and find encouragement from each other is found sometimes from a simple 140 character tweet that can brighten up a person's day.

The benefits of Twitter are endless like the reverberation of a smooth stone carefully aimed skipping across a quiet pond. The ripple effect is almost immediate. A word, a cause, a comment can create such a passionate response and support.

For me, it has been only a few months since I discovered Twitter, and admittedly, I have to say it has been a blessing. Funny how God uses the oddest things to help us out when we need it the most. Moving to a new community where I know no one, working virtually with my clients, I spent days and nights focused only on work. On top of an extremely cold winter, missing my grand kids, left me with no energy or desire to seek groups, organizations, let alone trying to make friends. Hating the thought of being stuck in a blue winter mood coupled with an attitude of lethargy, I spent my free moments searching the internet to mine its caverns for untapped treasures.

I started with FB, and rapidly became bored and frustrated, because it did not offer the "live" interaction or dynamics of topics and people I could easily communicate with. It was more dry and stoic, thus I continued my search in hopes of finding something that would suit my personality, and what I found, literally changed my life!

Don't get me wrong, I was busy with work, have a huge address book of professional contacts and business friends. Having traveled all over the world, made friends in different countries, continue my relationships with them, but Twitter was different. The social interaction, the opportunity to meet other professionals, learn and be current with politics, technology, issues, and concerns of today, infused my excitement about Twitter in a most profound way. I looked forward to tweeting with new found enthusiasm and anticipation. Finding new friends and an avenue to interact immediately was sheer delight.

You may even be nodding your head in agreement as you think about why you are on Twitter; personally, it has given me a voice to express my experiences with Breast Cancer, expertise as a Business Executive and Coach, an amateur gourmet chef, a chocolatier, wine connesuier, mom of twins, Grand of 6, an author and writer of books and stories that I can now share. To be involved in causes that are important to me as well as others gives new meaning to social networking.
.
As prosaic as it may sound, it already feels like home, like a comfy sweater, like a nest that I share with other tweeps. Home in the sense, that when I log in, I find myself reading with awe some of the wonderful tweets from friends I have found and developed relationships with. It brings a smile to my face, and warms my heart. I know that my presence makes a difference in someone's life and my tweets have value and impact.

I may never meet any of the people on Twitter, but I know we make a difference in each others lives in some way. We all leave an impression in the hearts of those we have come to know. Our imprint will be like a spirit that continues to reach and touch others lives that cannot be taken away even if Twitter goes away, (which I hope never happens).

We have built an international under-pinning of people who share the same basic desires; to relate to other people who share similar interests and are looking for friends to expand their networks, to be free to speak, pursue their desires for freedom, self-sufficiency ,reward for hard work, protection by our government, and ultimately being able to thank God by honoring Him with our lives.

So thank you Twitter and all the new friends I have made and yet to make. Thank you for being so kind to invite me into your lives and allow me the privilege of sharing mine with you. Thank you for "being" there, with words of encouragement and affirmation. I hope that I too, can be an encourager and offer bits of wisdom and grace to those I meet.

These are my reasons, what are yours? Would love to hear your comments. Thanks!

Seven Steps to Help You Succeed

2009-04-30T06:22:00.000-05:00

Image by aloshbennett via Flickr

Winning is a state of mind. It is a habit that must be cultivated by practice and discipline with the attitude that you never give up or give in. Challenges and obstacles come at us with certainty, it can not be avoided, however, how we face and overcome them separates the winners from the mediocre.

Winners create an image inside their minds that keeps them focused and allows them to break through barriers that would otherwise seem impossible. A winner digs deep within and sorts out the negative words and thoughts that have kept her from achieving what she knows she can accomplish and be.

Here are 7 Simple Steps to help you succeed at winning your goal;

1. Have a purpose; what is it that you want to be a winner at? Make sure your reasons are realistic, not to prove something to someone else, it must be because you want it with passion and are driven to go for it!

2. Write it down; your dream, purpose, goal, whatever you want to call it becomes more real to you when you see it in front of you. Written on a piece of paper that you can place somewhere where you see it constantly and reminds you to keep pressing forward when things get tough.

3. Make a plan; how are you going to accomplish your vision? What are the steps or disciplines that are needed to get to the goal you are pursuing? Break them down into daily, weekly,or monthly goals. Make is simple to implement and give yourself realistic time lines.

4. Get support from someone you can trust. Find a mentor, a professional person, someone who will encourage and keep you accountable and on track. Don't share with people you know will only want to discourage you, find those who will cheer you on!

5. Project your goal as already accomplished. Think about the fact that you are a winning woman, you have what it takes to do anything you want to do, and be whatever you want to be. You are winning each day you take a step that brings you closer to the finish line of your goal. Self talk is good sometimes speaking it out loud so you can hear what you are thinking can help as well. Keep seeing the goal as yours and attainable by making sure you have realistic goals and measures you know you can get to. Break it up into achievable milestones that work with your schedule and lifestyle.

6. Review and adjust. Sometimes a little adjustment is all you need to get you to the next part or help you get to your goal quicker and finish stronger. It is always wise to re-examine your goal, and make sure you are able to continue based on what is going on in your life. Emergencies, illness, and other setbacks can be discouraging, however, it doesn't mean you stop, you just readjust and keep going.

7. Reward or treat yourself. Each time you meet a milestone or accomplish another step toward your goal, celebrate by treating yourself to a small something that makes you feel good. Accept compliments graciously and appreciate the investment others have made in helping you achieve your goals.

Winning is part dreaming, part planning, part doing. It takes all three parts to be the winner you already are. Make it happen and be that Winning Woman!

8-year-old Saudi girl divorces 50-year-old husband

2009-04-30T03:52:00.001-05:00

Image by h de c via Flickr

By HADEEL AL-SHALCHI, Associated Press Writer Hadeel Al-shalchi, Associated Press Writer

CAIRO – An 8-year-old Saudi girl has divorced her middle-aged husband after her father forced her to marry him last year in exchange for about $13,000, her lawyer said Thursday.

Saudi Arabia has come under increasing criticism at home and abroad for permitting child marriages. The United States, a close ally of the conservative Muslim kingdom, has called child marriage a "clear and unacceptable" violation of human rights.

The girl was allowed to divorce the 50-year-old man who she married in August after an out-of-court settlement had been reached in the case, said her lawyer, Abdulla al-Jeteli. The exact date of the divorce was not immediately known.

A court in the central Oneiza region previously rejected a request by the girl's mother for a divorce and ruled that the girl would have to wait until she reached puberty to file a petition then.

There are no laws in Saudi Arabia defining the minimum age for marriage. Though a woman's consent is legally required, some marriage officials don't seek it.

But there has been a push by Saudi human rights groups to define the age of marriage and put an end to the phenomenon.

One Saudi human rights activist Sohaila Zain al-Abdeen was optimistic that the girl's divorce would help efforts to get a law passed enforcing a minimum marriage age of 18.

"Unfortunately, some fathers trade their daughters," she told The Associated Press. "They are weak people who are sometimes in need of money and forget their roles as parents."

It was not clear if the man received money for the divorce settlement. The man had given the girl's father 50,000 riyals, or about $13,350, as a marriage gift in return for his daughter, the lawyer said.

The 8-year-old girl's marriage was not the only one in the kingdom to receive attention in recent months. Saudi newspapers have highlighted several cases in which young girls were married off to much older men or young boys including a 15-year-old girl whose father, a death-row inmate, married her off to a cell mate.

Saudi Arabia's conservative Muslim clergy have opposed the drive to end child marriages. In January, the kingdom's most senior cleric said it was permissible for 10-year-old girls to marry and those who believe they are too young are doing the girls an injustice.

But some in the government appear to support the movement to set a minimum age for marriage. The kingdom's new justice minister was quoted in mid-April as saying the government was doing a study on underage marriage that would include regulations.

There are no statistics to show how many marriages involving children are performed in Saudi Arabia every year. Activists say the girls are given away in return for hefty marriage gifts or as a result of long-standing custom in which a father promises his infant daughters and sons to cousins out of a belief that marriage will protect them from illicit relationships.

Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

A Winning Woman Takes Time to Savor Life

2009-04-29T01:11:00.000-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

When was the last time you you walked out your front door without a cellphone, a child on your hip or a backpack hanging off your shoulder?

When was the last time you just sat in a comfy chair next to an open window and watched spring begin to unfold before your eyes?

When was the last time you took a walk, by yourself, down the street, around the corner and just said hi to whomever was outside doing whatever?

When was the last time you played your favorite music without kids screaming in the back seats of your car, or using headphones so you could actually hear the music?

When was the last time you went to a garden center and just walked around delighting in the blooming of fresh flowers and the smell of the water mist over the evergreens and newly bundled trees?

When was the last time you did not look at your watch, stayed away from the computer, and took time to savor that moment in your life?

Well, Winning Woman friend, pick a time and make it yours! It doesn't have to be long, just enough to enjoy and savor that precious moment when it's just God and you. In silence, in a whisper, in a song...yes YOU!

Wonderful, Fabulous YOU! You are HIS Miracle! You are a One-of-a-Kind!

You, His Unique Creation, His Masterpiece, His exceptional and incomparable YOU!

He chose You and gave you a song in your heart that no one else knows except you, no one hears it the way you do, and no one can sing it like you can.

He chose to give you gifts unique to your personality, to grow up, stretch you, equip you and esteem you. And for you to share with others.

That is what a Winning Woman does - gives of herself so others are made better from what she has poured into their life.

You are lovely, you are precious, you are smart, you are intelligent, you are a Winning Woman. God does not care if you are rich, poor, or in-between. He doesn't care if you are a democrat or republican - to Him, you are HIS because of Jesus.

BTW, have you two met yet? You and Jesus? Has He knocked on your door, when you were taking time to savor life or did you miss Him? I'm sure He'll be back when you are not so busy.

Near of far, He loves you and is waiting for your invitation to join you in your quiet moments when it's just the two of you. He won't ever abandon you, leave you , divorce you, ignore you, but He will always love you, cherish you and be there by your side. NO matter what.

So, again I ask, when was the last time you took time to savor life? Don't wait till it's too late and you say those awful words,"If only.."

You are worth taking the time to be refreshed, renewed, recharged, re-filled with the energy, power, wisdom, love, compassion, confidence, faith, and winning attitude.

Rest well Winning Woman!

WinningWomanWednesday Recommendations

2009-04-29T00:49:00.000-05:00

For the third week in a row, listed below are some duplicates, and new ladies with whom I have had the pleasure of getting to know and recommend to you. Please introduce me to any favorites you have, I would appreciate very much.

Also, Please consider being a follower to receive updates and help us grow!

To all of you wonderful ladies, A WinningWomanWednesday Shout out to you!

@jansimpson
@rockingjude
@righwingchick
@edsacademyworks
@twinelm
@centxrealtor
@KimSherrell
@asumer
@seasidsoul
@joeyfortman
@KatyinIndy
@evliving
@PatticakeGirl
@247moms
@kathyjodrey
@MaryMeye
@NewzViewz
@NDReps
@LovelyLu
@pjm6
@NinaGraceArt
@cbarbb
@TonyTamura
@ocgirlsue
@Romie
@annschilling
@deborahdunn
@bettyswann - ministry in Africa
@Courtney_182
@mauritienne – English, Nederlands, French
@hostingdeal – Emma finds deals on hosting
@AshleyMahaffey – Graceful woman of God
@Homeschool_Mom
@ZnaTrainer
@SilversSummit
@brightandclear
@autismfamily
@ginadhartley
@biblepromises
@TimeOutMom
@theSTARforum – save the American Republic
@WorkDemocracy
@Winniel_TLH
@cbeckby
@MargaretBecker -singer,songwriter
@SheilaWalsch - singer, writer
@YouRenew
@cahomeschoolmom
@CmpConservative
@ColorMeRed
@KatieSkimmer
@MandyVavrinak
@olivetiger
@PoliticalBelle
@hgeisler
@employeefaxtor
@shellykramer
@calvarygirl
@hetty4christ
@carolelarkin
@strategicsence
@Jjonesbr
@workingMomNews
@simpletechguru
@jeanettejoy
@shelleehale
@metamelanomaNew
@mixedbunny
@purehealthy
@eleesha
@TonyaTamura
@RebeccaHawkins
@BLangerfeldt
@ExecCoachCathy
@LisaAdolphe
@Prayersonline
@thegourmetgirl
@emilyrileysutton
@LeadershipInst
@KathyIreland
@thewinningwoman
@ladyexec
@livingrand

Autism Awareness Month

2009-04-27T19:15:00.008-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

Autism - just the word scares you, especially when you don't know anything about it, or maybe just enough to make you wonder about your family, your children.

Fortunately, the awareness factor for this disease is increasing with April being Autism Awareness Month!

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. It is a spectrum condition, which means that, while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them in different ways.
Some people with autism are able to live relatively independent lives but others may have accompanying learning disabilities and need a lifetime of specialist support. People with autism may also experience over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or colors.

Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. People with Asperger syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence. They have fewer problems with speech but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language.

What is Autism?

It is described as a lifelong developmental disability. If, knowing the symptoms, you were to observe people around you, you may find some answers as to why people in your life behave the way they do. There are three main characteristics that can be clearly identified according to medical studies on Autism;

• Difficulty with social communication

People with autism have difficulties with both verbal and non-verbal language. Many have a very literal understanding of language, and think people always mean exactly what they say.

• Difficulty with social interaction

People with autism often have difficulty recognizing or understanding other people's emotions and feelings, and expressing their own, which can make it more difficult for them to fit in socially. We tend to cast them as introverts, or acting strange, and we cannot understand why they have hardly any emotional response to a positive or negative situation we share with them

• Difficulty with social imagination

Social imagination allows us to understand and predict other people's behavior, make sense of abstract ideas, and to imagine situations outside our immediate daily routine. Difficulties with social imagination mean that people with autism find it hard to understand and interpret other people's thoughts, feelings and actions, and predict what will happen next. Not being able to anticipate or sequentially figure out the next thought or step, they get frustrated and say nothing, waiting for us to continue leading the thoughts and communication.

Interventions and therapies

There is currently no 'cure' for autism, but there are a range of interventions which may help some people with this complex condition.

Autism affects everyone differently, so what works for one person may not work for another.

The nature of interventions for autism vary greatly - they range from communication based approaches that build on the strengths of the person with autism, to more traditional behavioral techniques designed to teach basic learning skills.

Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders, when in 1992 it was 1 in every 10,000 children, now it is 1 in every 150 children. This has reached epidemic proportions, when you think also about the fact that every 20 minutes another child is diagnosed with Autism. Based on current research, children as yound as one year or younger can show indicators of autism.

As a parent or caregiver, it is good to know that there are support groups available and information you have access to via the web. Additionally, make sure to surround yourself with family and friends and teach them what you know to help make life as normal as possible for you and your family.

You can be a Winning Woman by the attitude you take and fill yourself with with God's Word of comfort and support. People will come along side and be there to help.

It is important to learn the signs and watch for them. Know what regular developmental milestones are and if your child is having difficulty reaching them, be sure to contact your doctor about screening your child for this spectrum disorder.
More information can be found at

Jenny McCarthy has a book about her son who has Autism.

I have included a link to a website that can also be of assistance;
http://www.autismspectrumdisorders.bellaonline.com

Winning Personalities Weaving a Life Pattern

2009-04-26T18:33:00.005-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

You find yourself enjoying the attention from people and love to make new friends. Or find yourself digging into a mess to look for a solution to what seems to others as an impossible task. Someone comes to you with a negative attitude or you just want to be left alone – why do you feel this way?

Have you ever wondered what makes up your personality?

After studying personality types – I thought it would be a valuable tool to share and give some basic information about what our own makeup is like.

Categorically there are four basic styles recognized by professionals – but will also add that they can overlap so although you may have many in one category, you can also have some in another.

Have fun figuring out where you fit and where you see others in your life fitting. It may help you understand them better, know them better and perhaps help find a way to improve relationships with those who you may not find anything in common with.

Popular Sanguine; always want to do it the fun way

Strengths        Weaknesses        Emotional Needs
loves people        hates schedules    needs lots of attention
makes friends easy    Can't say NO        Touchy, feely, affectionate
Always Active        Gets bored easy    Needs affirmation, approval
Exciting            Loses track of time    Accepts – As Is
Good humor        Lacks focus        needs friends

Powerful Choleric; wants to have it done my way

Strengths        Weaknesses        Emotional Needs
Problem solver        Overconfident        Needs to control
Loves a challenge    Workaholic        Needs loyalty from others
Born Leader        Arrogant        Appreciation for serving
Shows Confidence    Too bossy        Wants credit for good works
Work Oriented        Can't Apologize    Limited friendships

Perfect Melancholy; wants to do it the right way

Strengths        Weaknesses        Emotional Needs
Analytical        Perfectionist        Sensitive to others feelings
Planner        Inflexible        Needs support when down
Organized        Poor Self-Image    Loves silence
Loves Charts/grafts    Naively idealistic    Hard to please
Works well alone    Negative attitude    Space to be alone

Peaceful Phlegmatic; wants to do it the easy way

Strengths        Weaknesses        Emotional Needs
Low-Key        Uninvolved        Lack of Stress
Good Listener        Procrastinator        Peaceful
Few Enemies        Gives in easily        Quiet
Considerate        Stubborn        Feeling of Worth
Steady & Reliable    Hates change        Respectful

Ultimately remember, God gave us our personality traits. How we use these gifts will determine the kind of Winning Woman each of us are. We aren't all the same, but we need all kinds to bring balance in our lives. Together we are like a beautifully crafted quilt covering each others' weaknesses and showing our strengths. Otherwise we are merely independent parts; (sanguine, choleric, melancholy, phlegmatic) looking for where we belong. I would love to meet you and include you in my circle of Life.

May I invite you to be a Winning Woman friend?

From a Survivor to a Winner! (by Nava Writz, edited by Monika Shaw)

2009-04-26T15:14:00.002-05:00

I use to call myself cancer survivor; no more! Now I call myself cancer winner thank you Monika~

I was 32 at the time, when my sister set up for me a check up after I told her I was bleeding internally. The office visit which should have been routine turned into a life-changing moment which I recall so vividly as my emotions were running wild wondering what could have caused such an urgency on the part of the doctor. You see, I was trying to have a baby via In-vitro fertilization and was particularly interested in the making sure I was doing everything I could to be healthy and have success.
As the door was left slightly open to his office, I was able to hear the doctor asking my other doctor questions; “I am really upset I don’t like what I see. Didn’t you notice something wrong with her?” When he returned to the room I was in, he insisted that I must have a biopsy, right away, not even suspecting that my life was about to turned upside down.
My other doctor which was an Invitro pregnancy specialist, and was visibly shaken as he proceeded to have the biopsy taken, saying he would contact me in two days. Friday, I received the call inviting me and my significant other to meet with him in his office. As he began to explain all the medical terminology the only thing that registered with Cancer, and the rest was a blur. My mind was racing and the only thing I could think of I blurted out the obvious questions as to whether I could die from this. His answer was no comfort, but realistic as he replied with a “yes, you may”. I cried the entire weekend.

As this happened in 1989, I did not have access to a computer to conveniently type in queries related to cancer, cervical cancer, etc.
So we started various tests including cat-scans, MRI-s, and blood work. Soon it became quite clear that there was no other choice for me than to have a radical hysterectomy with a Stage C3 cancer, best to take it all out. And so it was that on April 6, 1989 I went into the operation fearing that I lost all hope of my dreams to become a mother.
8.5 hours of surgery, with 36 lymph nodes sampled 6 were cancerous. The day I left the hospital I said life can be so great if I will not need to go to radiation No such luck ~
Six weeks of radiation and one chemo implant, I recall going into the radiation therapy room and begin to vomit. Yet, in spite of all the discomfort, it was finally over and will never forget when the doctor said “you are cancer free”.

I celebrated, and my life has never been the same knowing that once you face the fact that your life is at risk.
The darkest day of my life was soon being filled with light as I adopted my first child, a boy. Shortly thereafter I was able to give him a brother. And so with much gratitude and love I celebrate these two dates October 8th and April 15th the birth of my boys as the most wonderful gifts I ever received from God.
In life I have learned that we can have a plan but what God has for us is the best plan.
I find it so interesting that God worked out bringing me these two wonderful and precious gifts through two young women who would have considered abortion, but instead were able to bless me to be a mom. Personally, I recommend women to reconsider their position in life regarding abortion and ask God who this child can be a blessing to; there are so many women with empty arms, waiting for their child to arrive.
I used to think of myself as a survivor, but after reading Monika’s description of The Winning Woman – I too now declare that I am a Winning Woman!
(Editor: Monika Shaw)

She Dances with Angels by Cathrine Feehely(edited by Monika Shaw)

2009-04-26T14:06:00.000-05:00

How does one describe the life of one who has left an indelible mark upon their life carved upon the pages of the heart? Perhaps a song written by the hand of God?

A family of six siblings we became best friends and remain lovingly and closely involved in each others' lives, always available when another was in need.
And so it was no surprise, on July 4th, 1985 when my sister gave birth to a beautiful girl named Stacey that I would come to love her as the daughter I never had.
From the moment she found her ability to speak, we knew that this determined, outgoing little girl had a mission. One could not help but to be taken aback by her matter-of-fact statements; in awe at the wisdom that was well beyond her years.
A personality that earned her the nick name of Stella Bella she commanded the attention of all. A bit bossy in nature, she was relentless in her efforts to obtain what she deemed necessary, going so far as to lie on the floor wailing that she was about to die due to a broken heart after being scolded by her mother. Or in sheer frustration exclaiming that there was no dealing with her mother at certain times of the month.

Stacey appeared to behave as a healthy little girl with the normal childhood ailments, periodically complaining about a pain in her leg which her doctor diagnosed as “growing pains”. However, much to our dismay and shock, that would not to be the case.
It was a cold day in January, when I received the call that changed our lives from that point on. My sister was at the hospital with Stacey explaining that the evening before my niece had begun to vomit blood. Alone with her daughter, she faced the news no parent want to hear; Stacey was in the late stages of cancer which had spread to her lungs. She had at most but a few months to live.

During the next several months, we experienced an emotional roller coaster of laughter, joy, happiness, appreciating the blessings, savoring the moments, feeling the anger, exhaustion, guilt and fear that came with the demands of caring for terminally ill child. We witnessed the wisdom of a child who wished only to share her time and limited strength with those who had earned the right to be near, and would cleverly think of ways to avoid some visitors with grace.

A few days before passing requested the privacy to speak with individual
loved ones. Two days later, she felt the need to not allow anyone else to visit, so she could spend time alone with her mom. As she was held her in the arms of her loving mother, she said that we she was tired. And in an act of the purest kind of love, my sister told her not to worry, she would be alright was free to go if she believed it was time. She closed her eyes and the spirit that had touched our lives was released.
One might think that this was far too great a demand made by an uncaring Creator, but I have chosen to believe that the greater loss would have been found in not being chosen to participate in her life as she fulfilled a purpose that would not be restrained within our dreams and goals.
If one is to believe that we are not human beings seeking a spiritual experience but spiritual beings living the human experience, then we may be able to find our way to understand even when unable to willingly accept the time appointed journey of a loved one to go home.

For those who have suffered the loss of a child, it is not ours to know the depth of your pain. It is a place of calling not choice that freezes the bystander in fear with the thought. There are no platitudes or words of condolence worthy of this sacred place. There is only the hope that from these ashes you will find the strength to rise up and make known the legacy left behind by one for whom you love.

That in time, you will be able to sense the memory of their presence prompting within you the grace to move ahead in the fulfillment of your divine purpose. I bend my knees, bow my head in respect honoring those who have been given the highest of callings and given the greatest of sacrifices.

For me, I have come to the place to choose not to allow the dark clouds of pain to
overshadow the presence of a life that gave me the greatest cause for celebration. I know that Stacey’s spirit dances in places only for the chosen, she dances with Angels.

WinningWomanWednesday Ladies to Follow

2009-04-22T01:58:00.002-05:00

In addition to the list from last week, here are my recommendations in no particular order for Winning Women to follow;
@WeezieT
@JanSimpson
@rockingjude
@JaneAllison
@ByDezin
@evliving
@TheGourmetGirl
@EmmaRileySutton
@patriotgams123
@HeshieSegal
@prosperitygal
@AmericanWomannn
@flicka47
@only2degrees
@reimagin
@debrah6
@Olalah
@Suzy_Lee
@becs09
@yourcrystalball
@seasidesoul
@consultpro05
@BelieversPress
@happylaura
@EdWorksAcademy
@chriswoodward
@VickieSiebert
@roverradar
@vanessacobb
@lynnmosher
@colormered
@rightwingchick
@readmylipstick
@stopdemsspendin
@michelleflores
@joycecherrier
@constitutiongrl
@DeniseMM
@rowdygrandma
@aceconcierge
@lauraduhaime
@navawritz
@thefairypond
@EricaWitts
@LadyExec
@TheWinningWoman

So many #winningwoman friends to find and the list will continue to grow.
If we haven't met yet, please tweet me and include #winningwoman at the end of your tweet pls.

Have a wonderful #WinningWomanWednesday !

Watch for new list next week, hope you will be on it.

Too Blessed

2009-04-21T20:45:00.002-05:00

I'm too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed.
I refuse to be discouraged to be sad or to cry.
I refuse to be down hearted and here's the reason why:
I have a God who is almighty; who is sovereign and supreme.
I have a God who loves me -- and I am on His team.
He is all wise and powerful; Jesus is His name.
Though everything else is changeable, my God remains the same.
I refuse to be beaten or defeated.
My eyes are on my God.
He has promised to be with me, through this life I trod.
I am looking past my circumstances, to heaven's throne above.
My prayers have reached the heart of God and I am resting in His love.
I give thanks to Him in everything.
My eyes are on His face.
The battle is His; the victory is mine; He will help me win the race.
I repeat!
I'm too blessed to be stressed!
(Author unknown)

It's Winning Woman Wednesday Lady Tweeps

2009-04-15T15:45:00.007-05:00

It's #WinningWomanWednesday!

Every Wednesday I will be recommending Winning Woman who are worth adding to your contacts for their expertise, contributions, insight, and make Winning Woman a statement they live. Are you on this list?

Twitter WinningWoman Recommendations;(in no particular order)
@jansimpson ( making a difference politically)
@rockingjude (strong leader, see site)
@mariaschriver
@kathyireland (congrats on new book!)
@tkells
@colormered
@rightwingchick
@policygal
@shellykramer
@tracygardner
@lynnmosher
@marybeth66
@Divacat60
@consultpro05
@barefoot_exec (congrats on vid!)
@alphawomen
@stylishexec
@coachdeb (congrats on book!)
@jpamerica (great radio show!)
@jillme
@juliarosien(congrats on new site)
@eliving
@cathywebsavvypr
@louise_philp
@inspiremetoday

If you are not listed, we have next Wednesday coming, and every Wednesday after that. Please note that we need to tweet and get to know you so that I may recommend you and help you grow your community.
If you have not yet, please join/follow this blog for updates and new articles.

Have a great WinningWomanWednesday ladies!
http://www.winningwoman.blogspot.com

The Little Red Hen USA Version (Allegory)

2009-04-14T18:19:00.005-05:00

The Little Red Hen USA version

The little red hen called all of her neighbors together and said:
"If we plant this wheat, we shall have bread to eat.
Who will help me plant it?"

"Not I," said the cow.
"Not I," said the duck.
"Not I," said the pig.
"Not I," said the goose.

"Then I will do it by myself," said the little red hen, and so she did.

The wheat grew very tall and ripened into golden grain.

"Who will help me reap my wheat?" asked the little red hen.

"Not I," said the duck..
"Out of my classification," said the pig.
"I'd lose my seniority," said the cow.
"I'd lose my unemployment compensation," said the goose.

"Then I will do it by myself," said the little red hen, and so she did.

At last it came time to bake the bread.

"Who will help me bake the bread?" asked the little red hen.
"That would be overtime for me," said the cow.
"I'd lose my welfare benefits," said the duck.
"I'm a dropout and never learned how," said the pig.
"If I'm to be the only helper, that's discrimination," said the goose.

"Then I will do it by myself," said the little red hen.

She baked five loaves and held them up for all of her neighbors to see. They wanted some and, in fact, demanded a share. But the little red hen said, "No, I shall eat all five loaves."

"Excess profits!" cried the cow. (Nancy Pelosi)

"Capitalist leech!" screamed the duck. (Barbara Boxer)
"I demand equal rights!" yelled the goose. (Jesse Jackson)

The pig just grunted in disdain. (Ted Kennedy)

And they and ACORN all painted "Unfair!" picket signs and marched around and around the little red hen, shouting obscenities.

Then the farmer (Obama) came. He said to the little red hen, "You must not be so greedy."

"But I earned the bread," said the little red hen.

"Exactly," said Barack the farmer. "That is what makes our free enterprise system so wonderful. Anyone in the barnyard can earn as much as he wants. But under our modern government regulations, the productive workers must divide the fruits of their labor with those who are lazy and idle."

And they all lived happily ever after, including the little red hen, who smiled and clucked, "I am grateful, for now I truly understand."

But her neighbors became quite disappointed in her. She never again baked bread because she joined the 'party' and got her bread free. And all smiled 'Fairness' had been established.

Individual initiative had died, but nobody noticed; perhaps no one cared...so long as there was free bread that 'the rich' were paying for.

EPILOGUE

Bill Clinton is getting $12 million for his memoirs.

Hillary Clinton got $8 million for hers.

That's $20 million for the memories from two people, who for eight years, repeatedly testified, under oath, that they couldn't remember anything.

IS THIS A GREAT BARNYARD OR WHAT?

Winning the Time & Stress Battle; with a little help from a Friend

2009-04-01T20:45:00.001-05:00

Time it's the most precious commodity we have, yet we never seem to have enough. A ledger balance sheet which divided with two columns that on one side says TIME, the other side says STRESS, and we find our balance sheet is out-of-balance almost daily.

STRESS = Shifting To Extreme Super Strength

I say extreme, because it seems that we just adjust to the tension and stress by shifting into this hyper-mode to get everything done; which can wreak havoc to our minds and body.

Stress has invaded and become a prevalent part of our lives. Time seems to just slip out of our hands,almost like someone has taken the steering wheel from us and we have lost control.

When stress attacks, it snowballs and we become a slave to it. Because it consumes our thoughts, we panic and try to play catch-up only to find ourselves exhausted from the perpetual list of things that still have to get done. Our efforts seem to yield little more than a headache, more worry, and more stress. We can become depressed and feel defeated that we just can't seem to gain control over it all.
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Regardless of how much we meditate, push things aside for quiet time, re-organize our schedules, do yoga, exercise, have finances in order...stress still hits us square between the eyes. The mind like a magnet absorbs everything that can trigger a stress response and sticks to us.

If you are not sure about whether stress lives in your life, take a look at this list of the top 10 stress triggers/events in women's lives;
Marriage
Pregnancy
Marital separation
Divorce
Death of spouse
Death of close family member
Personal injury or illness
Loss of job due to termination
Marital reconciliation or retirement
Change in financial state

It is by no means definitive, and are the most common that most of us are aware of and/or have happened in our lives at one time or another.

I believe that balancing home and career is one of the most difficult challenges women face today. In order to avoid falling into the "SuperWoman" syndrome,(which can plunge us deep into the stress territory), there needs to be a paradigm shift in the way we approach and handle things in life.

If you have worked outside the home, you know that there are rules and timetables set in place for you to accomplish your work. Similarly, these types of rules can be applied to our life and home. Managing time and routines in a succinct and orderly manner requires thought and planning, but when finished, you have gained control over the stress monster. A deep breath and sigh of relief comes over you knowing that this area is not pressing against you uncomfortably like a tight waistband.

One of the main keys to accomplish this is having yourself duplicated so you can do all these things and not run out of energy, yet still achieve your goals.
Duplicate myself - how?

As a Winning Woman, you want to be effective and efficient in all areas of your life. Get some help, a Virtual Assistant; having a VA is like having a personal Valet, Concierge, Administrator for your life. If you are a business executive, you have an Executive Administrator or Executive Assistant. You know and understand the value of this service. If you run a home, and a home-based business, this service will help you to be most effective with what you are trying to accomplish - growing your business and maintaining a well-functioning household.

Wondering how to get started and if you can afford it? I have listed several VA professionals around the country, so you should be able to find one close to you. Discuss your needs your need and see if she can be of help to you. She can get you organized and set things into motion until you decide to take it over yourself. Quite frankly, after a while, you won't want to give her up, she is like another you but far enough away to not be distracted and stays on target to accomplish the list of things you need to get done.

Save time, be efficient, be effective and concentrate on what you do best. You will be amazed at all you can accomplish.

Are you waiting for Something?

2009-03-31T17:05:00.010-05:00

Gifts come to us in some very unique ways and today, I received a gift. It wasn't money, flowers, chocolate, or anything tangible, it was a gift of promise. And I want to share this gift with you -

To get something you never had, you have to do something you have never done, and it is usually having the faith to believe.

When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something so much better.

The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you. He promises to be with us at all times, you can trust His word.

Something good will happen to you today; and maybe it has just happened. Be blessed by it and pass it on to others.

This is my gift to you today! Please take it and share it!

http://www.thewinningwoman.blogspot.com

Have you had your Breasts Checked Lately?

2009-03-13T16:07:00.006-05:00

Over 2 million women living in the United States have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.

Are you one of them?

Here are some interesting facts;

Breast Cancer is not caused by STRESS or injury to the breast

Approximately every 12 minutes Breast Cancer claims another life
Most women who develop Breast Cancer have no family history of the disease
Breast Cancer impacts over 240,000 new patients a year in the US alone
An average of every 3 minutes a woman is diagnosed with Breast Cancer
Approximately 86% of women who were diagnosed with Breast Cancer 5 years ago are still alive and living their lives
Approximately 77% of women who were diagnosed with Breast Cancer 10 years ago are still living
Approximately 52% of women who were diagnosed with Breast Cancer 20 years ago are still living
After the age of 40 risk of getting Breast Cancer increases dramatically

What can you do to be aware?
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I am a living testimony to being a Breast Cancer Winner! Over 12 years ago I was diagnosed with this disease after finding a lump the size of a 50-cent piece in my breast. I had a radical mastectomy and have been doing checkups for years now. First I had the mammogram - but that was painful and difficult with an implant, so I researched and found an alternative that works great for me. It is called Thermal Imaging or Thermography, and it is so easy, you are done within 15 minutes or less. They take a "heat" or "thermal" photo and can see a better picture of what is going on in your breasts. To find out more I have added this link for your reference and education;

http://www.breastthermography.com/breast_thermography_mf.htm

Breast Cancer is not to be treated with ignorance or pretend it won't happen to you. My mother did not have Breast Cancer, and I am the only one in my family to have ever had it.

Give yourself and the ones you love the biggest and best gift of all - your life by taking just a few minutes to get an exam. The above link will help you find locations where you can get checked and diagnosed.

Here's to your Winning Breasts!

A Winning Attitude when times are tough

2009-03-13T13:50:00.003-05:00

I don't have to tell you about all the things going wrong in our country right now, it seems like we are a ship without a port, being tossed right to left and back. Times are definitely difficult to say it mildly, yet I have hope. Not because of our current government, and their plans for recovery, instead I have hope deep inside which propels me each day to get up and get going to accomplish something useful and beneficial to someone.

Do you look up at the sky and see dark clouds only, or do you peer behind them and see the sun shining above? That is the Winning Attitude I am talking about. haIt says, regardless of the situation I am in, regardless of the tough times I am in, like the stormy clouds that eventually clear up and show the sun again, so too, we will go through these times.

How? How can I have a winning attitude with all this going on around me? In my life?

First and foremost I believe you have to know that you are important.

To quote Roy Lessin who wrote these words;

"Just think, you're here not by chance, but by God's choosing. His hand formed you and made you the person your are. He compares you to no one else - you are a one of a kind. You lack nothing that His grace can't give you. He has allowed you to be here at this time in history to fulfill His special purpose for this generation."

Whether you believe this to be true, it is God's perspective of you. He treasures and values you more than anything in this world. There is no thing that He would trade you for. Knowing that, when, maybe you have nobody else in your life who tells you that you are important gives hope.

I am not saying He will suddenly appear and pluck you out of your difficult situation - no, instead, He will lead you to people, who will welcome you with a kind word, a place to stay, warmth and security during the difficult days, weeks, or months that you are going through this time in your life. Remember that we go "through" and never stay in the place we are if we are willing to follow His guidance which we hear in our conscience or our spirit.

We can have a winning attitude in many ways, when we realize for example that we are healthy, have friends and family, have someone who cares about us, laughs and cries with us, and prays for us.

This is not for the weak of heart - it is a time for strength and perseverance during difficult times. We need to charge our batteries with prayer and be strengthened by God's Word so we can be a beacon of light to others and they grope their way through the dark times of their lives.

Proverbs 13:12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but when dreams come true at last, there is life and joy!" (from the Living Bible)

Winning Time

2009-03-09T16:56:00.003-05:00

You look at the clock and the day is GONE! Seems like it just burned up like the fuel in your car, and you are both running on empty with much to do. Do you ever notice how quickly the hours in the day rush past you and you feel like you haven't accomplished much?

It happens to the most organized woman who diligently makes out her list of things to do, and methodically goes about the day knocking off each task till she finds that there aren't enough hours in a day to do it all. It's almost as if the list keeps growing longer as does the day grows shorter. So how do women win the war with time? How can we win some time back?

Deciding that it was time to make use of the internet and mine its treasures, I took a piece of paper, drew a line down the middle and on one side made a list of things that I could find solutions for via the internet and on the other side, I listed those things that either I or someone has to take care of.

First I took on simple things like;

Ordering groceries and finding coupons from on-line resources such as;

http://www.PeaPod.com, the staples are great, (I don't recommend ordering fresh fruits, veggies, meats that way), or http://www.Schwans.com They have everything from bread to ice cream and both deliver to your door.
http://www.findsavings.com - Find Savings,coupons,discounts for 100s of stores!

A Personal Chef is another option that comes in handy to prepare meals for you in advance, especially if you are needing personalized meals for diet, low sodium, or family meals.

Find the local dry-cleaner who provides pick-up and delivery, or offers 24-hour drop off service. Dog-walkers will take Spot out for his daily walk for you. On-site Car Washing - they come to you at the office or at home, and they will fill up your tank if you need it.

Then there is the "other" list. This is where the thought pops in your head; 'If only I could duplicate myself!' - well, this is almost as good as having another you -

A Virtual Assistant can take care of your paperwork, paying your bills, sorting out receipts for taxes and does all the "fun" stuff that takes time from you. Your Virtual Assistant becomes a second YOU, she takes care of getting cards out, gifts purchased, in other words - she helps you win time!

So that's it - winning some precious time back to spend with your family, or on yourself, with a few tips and shortcuts.

Please share ways you have found to time for yourself by leaving a comment and let me know if this has been of help to you.

Enjoy the winnings!

Social Butterflies - Finding the Right Sites Pt 2

2009-03-05T20:46:00.005-06:00

Are you are a Business person? Do you have a business you want to promote?

In Part 2 of Finding the right sites we will look at three (3) strong Business sites that can benefit you as a business person and/or business owner.

The first is LinkedIn. Not considered a social site, its' primary focus is on making contacts and networking with other professionals at different levels at companies you would like to interact with.
Perhaps you are looking for the contact person to a company you are interested in seeking an opportunity or employment with. This is the place for such a search. It is more direct and you can get past the gate-keepers.

If you are new to LinkedIn and want to start making contacts then consider joining one or more of the open networking groups found on the groups page. Groups such as; LION (Linked In Open Network), OPEN Networker, TopLinked, GroupLinked, Inviteswelcome, and BLUE (The Dallas Blue Networking site with over 25,000 members worldwide) are all excellent groups to start with. As you sift through contacts, hone in on the ones you feel you will want to network with and expand your contacts from that base.

Additionally, you can find niche groups related to your area of expertise that you may also want to join. You can have up to 50 groups which will expose you to thousands of potential contacts that you can add to your network.

Quality, more than quantity is key, therefore, if you receive an invitation to connect from someone that doesn't look like a fit, just Archive it. Never click the "I don't Know" button. This is a courtesy all LinkedIn folks extend to each other.

LinkedIn offers several levels of membership. I suggest starting with the Free Membership, then if you like it, move into a paid subscription. Visit them at http://www.linkedin.com

Another focused business site is FastPitchNetworking.com - which is a business networking site that will help you grow your business and give you greater exposure across the internet. They offer many tools to help you become more visible in the network and on the internet. It is also segmented, so you can find professionals locally, citywide, and statewide. Again, this offers several levels of membership. Visit them at http://www.fastpitchnetworking.com

A different kind of business and social networking site is e-cademy. This is a global site that enables you to connect with people world-wide. In your profile you are asked for 50 words to describe yourself, which are like keywords or tags. This will allow people who type any of these keywords to find you and invite you to connect.
Again, you can choose to accept or decline their invitation based on what you are looking for. Visit them at http://www.ecademy.com

Finally, keep it all real - give enough professional information about you, your professional experience and expertise, but don't write a thesis. Stick to the point of your reason for being there, advertise your services or company by following the template they provide. Let people know you are open to invitations and are ready to engage in networking.

You will be amazed at the door that will open for you in the networking world.

Ready, set - Go for it Winning Woman and start making those connections!

Pitching your Business

2009-03-05T19:05:00.008-06:00

You are in an elevator with someone who may be a decision maker for the company you have been looking at doing business with - what do you say?

How do you get your pitch in before the door opens? It's crunch time, and you've got to say it in 25 seconds or less - there are no second chances, this is the moment; and that is why it is called the 'Elevator Pitch' or 'Elevator Speech'.
Great! You think; 'Here's my chance to tell them about my great company', and you proceed to download your entire docier of everything you do and have ever done. Then, just to make sure they don't forget you, you offer your card. Do you wonder why you never hear back from them?
Has this ever happened to you? Carried away by the mere question, in your excitement and exuberance, you fire-hose the person with everything you've got. Too much information (TMI).

Seriously though, you have a business that you want to talk about because you love doing what you do. You are passionate about it and you want to tell the world. However, what you may or may not realize is that no one is interested in you. Your long-winded discourse could go on to being boring or even borderline rude if you continue talk only about yourself. It is time to tighten it up and make it interesting to "them". It has to be about them. This is why it is important to master your speech so that it clearly identifies what you have to offer is of benefit to this person. The person who may or may not be interested in you and has for the sake of small talk, asked - 'And, what do you do?'

So, what options are there for letting people know about your business - politely?
Let's look at and break down the elements to the best under-1-minute speech and how to put one together; The Elevator Speech or The Elevator Pitch.

First, get a timer, set it for 2 minutes, then write down what you do. Not easy is it?
Two minutes seem so short, yet it is way too much time in an elevator. Keep working at it till you can beat the clock at 2 minutes, then 1 minute, till you have it under 40 seconds. Sharpen and shorten your time till you can say what you do in 25 - 30 words or under approximately 40 seconds.
Get to that strong one-liner that makes them think 'wow' and ask for your business card. Or perhaps they may give you theirs and tell you to call them. They want more, you got them hooked. How did you do it?

Let's break down the elements to a great elevator pitch or speech by implementing these keys as you are putting your pitch together;

Know who your target is - if you don't no one else will and you will just throw it out there hoping it will stick on someone. Keep in mind that if the person just doesn't seem to fit your client profile template, just smile, be professional, and very be brief about what you do. Never offer your business card.

Know what your goal is - you want to get your foot in the door with this speech, then once in you will get more time to elaborate on your business and how it will benefit them. Notice, I said benefit them, which leads me to the next point -

Know that it's NOT about you - your potential client wants to know what's in it for them, what are they going to get and how will they benefit from your business relationship.

Keep it short and to the point - enough said. You don't want someone rambling in your ear, don't do it to anyone else.

Be prepared - always know that the chance for your pitch can happen anywhere, any time.

Be confident - Practice! Practice! Practice!, till you can say it in your sleep. Make sure your speech exudes the passion behind what you are saying therefore YOU have to believe it yourself.

The late great Winston Churchill said it best; "Be Clear. Be Brief. Be Seated."

Social Butterflies - Finding the Right Sites Pt 1

2009-02-23T23:47:00.010-06:00

Are you confused about which social site to choose?

Social Sites are popping up all over the web and you may be wondering what they are and if you should belong to any. Perhaps you want to know where you might invest your time and your affiliations?
In researching this vast offering of online communities, I have found that it can become a bit overwhelming with the plethora of information and aspects to them. There are so many to choose from and they all seem to offer different aspects of communication, community, and environments. With this in mind, I thought we would start with two of the most visible and hot sites going right now.
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Facebook tends to be more like an online diary, journal, scrapbook or memoir depending on how you wan to use it. It offers many groups to belong to including causes that may be of interest to you. Most people will post rather than real-time or IM, however that option is available if you want to see who is online when you are. With time you can build your community by inviting people you know, and new people you want to know via a group or cause. Post comments, photos, links, music, videos, whatever it is you want to share that is important to you. Then, take your time to read your connections' posts when it's convenient for you, add comments to their posts, and send them an email directly if you choose.
It also offers groups you can join and meet others with same interest and causes as you have, or you can create a group and invite others to join yours.
You can also use FB as simply a place to post updates on your life with photos and keep it to your immediate circle of family and friends. FaceBook has a tendancy to be more intimate and more casual in its socializing.

The complete opposite of this is Twitter which is real-time, like live texting, except you are interacting with a community of thousands. And, with limit of 140 characters - you learn to tighten your thoughts and respond immediately to a current topic or start a new one yourself. This is where the fun is, because the topics jump around so much, and with the time zones, people from all over the world start to engage themselves in these open forum conversations know as Tweets. Twitter offers the opportunity to find out what other people are thinking and saying in real-time, where you can find people who have opposing or similar interests, political, religious and/or social similarities . It is not a forum for promoting your MLM or selling - people will block you and actually consider it spamming. It is building relationships and exploring subjects of interest to discuss, and yes, sometimes, you may even connect on a business level and make contacts.
If you are really wanting to spread your wings and be a social butterfly -you can join a number of different communities, keeping in mind that they all have "unwritten" rules and etiquette that you need to follow to be able to become part of it.
In my next post, we will look at several more communities and the rules of engagement.

Winning Hearts - Winning Lives - This is American Heart Month

2009-02-17T16:11:00.004-06:00

The euphoria of Valentine's Day has worn off, you've had a few too many desserts, and realize that you have hit that moment when you look in the mirror, the numbers on the scale and think that it's time to get serious about your health.

You feel uncomfortable in your clothes, everything is harder to do, you are out of breath, and you have no energy. Take a serious look at your lifestyle - are there things you can change? Does the idea of living encourage you to rethink some of your habits that are causing problems in your life? Do you feel out of control and don't know where to begin to make changes?

Well good news! This is American Heart Month and there are many resources available to help you take that first step to a winning life. Our heart is the center of our lives, it keeps us alive, and what condition is it in? Are you taking care of your heart?

Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer of women? Look at these numbers from the American heart Association Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics, updated 2008;

80,700,000 American adults have one or more types of cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular disease includes stroke, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, birth heart defects, hardening of the blood vessels, and other diseases of the circulatory system.
One in 3 female adults have some form of cardiovascular disease.
In 2004, cardiovascular disease caused about a death a minute among females.
In 2004, 460,000 female lives were lost due to cardiovascular disease.
More female lives were lost due to cardiovascular disease than by cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, Alzheimer’s disease, accidents, and diabetes combined.
49% of Black/African-American women have cardiovascular disease.
35% of non-Hispanic white women have cardiovascular disease.
34.4% of Mexican-American women have cardiovascular disease.

Overweight, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, eating the wrong foods, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even a family history of heart disease contribute to heart disease deaths in women.

As a Winning Woman you have the ability utilizing the right information and tools to reduce the risk of heart disease and have a healthy and longer life.

If you do just 4 simple things; not smoking, balanced eating with the right foods, do some physical activity and lowering your weight to a healthy number, doing these four thing can help lower your risk of heart disease by as much as 82% according to the NHLBI.

We must spread the word to other Winning Women and encourage each other to take this seriously. To remind ourselves - wear RED! Joining a local group or starting one in your area to create accountability partners if you think you can't tackle this on your own.
Sometimes we just need another person who is willing to get us out of the house, walk with us, talk with us, and encourage us.
Living healthy is really Winning.

Be a healthy Winning Woman!

Winning Thought for the Day

2009-02-16T19:06:00.001-06:00

It is easier to suppress the first desire than to satisfy all that follows - Benjamin Franklin

Winning the Money Battle - Pt 2 Stop Shopping

2009-02-16T18:19:00.007-06:00

Hi Again,

Here's the next part of Winning the Money Battle - Stop Shopping!

1. If you are a die-hard shopaholic who cannot seem to stay away from the stores, let's start with groceries - you can order your groceries on-line through PeaPod, or use Schwans and they will deliver to your door. This can keep your grocery bills from getting out of hand.
Let's face it, most of us are really bad girls when we go to the market.We get this and ooh, got to have that, till we realize at the checkout that we have totally blown our budget. Embarrassed by our lack of discipline, we buy it all, then later figure out where to borrow from so we can make ends meet till next paycheck.

2. Cut up the cards, yes, those credit cards, and the numbers for online shopping networks that you hide in drawers way in the back, or in your wallet under photos of your kids that you swear you will use ONLY in an emergency - forget it! It won't happen, you know you're going to whip out that plastic the minute your radar smells a sale. You just can't help yourself, it's what you need and save so much money right now because it's on sale, keep telling yourself that and you will NEVER get out of the hole. I hope you are laughing about now. :)

Let's face it, you lived without till now, you can live without it - period.
BTW, the savings you think you are getting are being eaten up by the % interest% you are paying on that card!!!

3. Open an Roth IRA and deposit any money you have laying around, get in the habit of doing that even if it is $5.00 - why? Because the more often you start depositing into the IRA, and see it grow, the more you will find ways to keep adding to it. It becomes a mission, a purpose, a goal.
First it could be to have $100, then $500, then $1000 and so on.

4.. Talk to your banker about re-financing your house or car or any loans at lower rates, without penalties or paying a penny out of your pocket to do this. Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate. You won't know what you can get, if you don't ask.

5.. Sell Stuff - let's face it - if you haven't worn it, used it, or given it away within 6 months, it is taking up space and losing money for you the longer it sits there. Craig's List, Ebay, Half.com, or have a girl-friends garage sale where several of you get your stuff together and have a big sale. If you need deductions, find the local shelter, or Woman's Shelter and donate everything to them.

By now, you have probably come up with a few ideas of your own, hopefully the above mentioned ideas will give you the start you need to get going.

I know you will win the money battle - because you are worth it, it feels good to be in control of your money and you are a Winning Woman!

Let me know how you are doing!

Winning the Money Battle - Evaluate Pt 1

2009-02-15T12:27:00.011-06:00

Is this a good Investment?

When you sit down and look at your income and at your bills, does it look like you are working to just to put money into others' pockets?

Considering that over 50% of the women in the US do work at some point during their lives, and many times while single, or building a family, the question should be asked; 'Is going to work a good investment?'

I decided to break down this question and evaluate this investment we make toward the great economic account we pour our time and money and lives into. Let's take a look at what going to work and the (ROI) Return on investment might look like.

First, let's look at what we need just to get started - Business Wardrobe, additional groceries for brown bagging it, hitting the gas pumps every other day, not to mention wear and tear on the car parts, and the tires, the time it takes to drive to work, and home again at the end of the day, and throw in daycare and we wonder; is all this worth it? What do we gain? What does it really cost?
With this economy many think break even is as good as it can get. Or, perhaps, you are doing a little better and able to put a little extra aside for your rainy day, that's excellent and gives you a sense of control. But what if you are in the position of falling behind every month and never seeing a cent in your pocket? What do you then? How do you change this pattern? Sure there are oodles of books and matrix program, budget programs available, but are you really going to take the time to sit down in front of your computer and put together an Excel sheet or something similar?

What is the easiest way for YOU to get a handle on your monthly budget?

Let's look at the most simple and basic method that will not overwhelm the most math-challenged person.

Take a lined piece of paper and do the following -

1. Get all your bills that are paid on a monthly basis and write down who they are, next to each one the due date, then the amount due.

2. Check these companies to find out if they offer a budget plan - that is the same amount paid every month - you might find you can save some money. Also, check if you can save by paying online and not have paper bills sent to you, again, you may be able to save money here too.

3. Look at your bank online to see if they offer an special savings on auto, home, or other insurance - I save an extra $20.00 on my car insurance just by signing up through my bank.

4. If you have tuition or school loans, these are also negotiable - sometimes scholarships are awarded, or you can adjust the monthly payment if you are able to volunteer once a month for the school.

5. Next, take those monthly expenses for things like; tithing or giving, groceries, dry-cleaning, medicines, diapers, coffee runs, going out to eat, alcohol, cigarettes, and other miscellaneous that you have occur on a monthly basis. Are there any bubbling up to the surface that you see where you can cut back or cut out? Usually the hardest ones to give up are the ones we are addicted to; coffee, lattes, cigarettes, alcohol, sodas, going out to eat, and these are the ones that if you stopped buying for even one month you would see a savings depending on your habit of course, but a savings that can go straight into the bank.

Determine to discipline yourself and just do it. After one month, if you like what you see, then try it again next month, and little by little you will begin to see those dollars adding up in your savings account.
Finally, look at your income vs. expenses after you have made these changes. Do you start to see improvement in your finances? Is your investment starting to look like it can yield a return?
It's all up to you and what you want - so go after it and win your battle over money!
You can do it - You are a Winning Woman!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T11:53:00.004-06:00

This is a great day to wish everyone you see a "Happy Valentine's Day" greeting. It is known all over our country, evidenced by the flowers and gifts given. However, with the gloom hanging over us like a cloud ready to break open and pour out it's bounty - we can still take this day and and enjoy it.

No matter the age, a smile, a hug, and I Love You go a long way. You will fill their hearts with warmth and feel lighter if just for the day.

Here's to a winning Valentines Day to you - Winning Woman!

Enjoy the day.

Winning Love

2009-02-13T22:27:00.003-06:00

How do I love you, let me show you the ways; cards, flowers, chocolates, dinners, lingerie, perhaps an engagement ring, or hearing "I Love You" for the first time from someone you have seeing.
Yes, there is love. And it comes in many ways, like your baby's giggle or falling asleep in your arms or your child climbing up on your lap to snuggle. Your teen, who hangs around a little longer so they can hear you say something nice to them.

Perhaps it's a good friend who you have known for a long time that you can share a warm thought or sentiment with. You can smile at the person behind the counter, say thanks to the person who pumps your gas in the pouring rain, or the guys who pick up your trash.

Sadly, many people go a whole day without hearing a kind word from anyone, they feel invisible, as the world rushes around them, or maybe, we are the ones who feel invisible. We all need love from someone who cares, wants to be there with us, for us, unconditionally loving us no matter what.

I believe that the most awesome and wonderful love comes from God, our Father, our Creator, who made us in His own Image. Yes, He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to give His life for us so that we can live in eternal love with Him.

God and Love are the same - you can't "see" it, "touch"it, "feel"it - but you can see it, feel it and touch it by giving your love to someone else unconditionally, and receiving it. It fills your heart with warmth, joy, and gladness. Knowing you are loved, gives us peace that we are not alone, or invisible. He sees our every moment and is with us all the time - He promised He will never leave us alone.

Do you need love today? Do you need to feel loved? Then take a moment and quiet your heart and mind and just ask for God's Love to fill you and let you feel His Presence.

Winning Doves

2009-02-11T13:02:00.006-06:00

Have you noticed?

It's amazing! A new breed of models popping up in magazines and on television and getting the attention of men and women of all ages. Grandmothers, Mothers, Women of many generations covered in bubbles are showing off their beauty in a medium that was held exclusively for the young and thin.

Winning Doves, as I will fondly call them and each one - sharing a little of their lives through their smiles and bodies wrapped up in a blanket of bubbles that covers them like a cashmere robe. Their poses boldly declare that each one of them is a Winning Woman.

I think it's about time for real women to show off who they are. And they help us see ourselves beautiful, strong, feminine, and yes, a Winning Woman!

Before their campaign, would you have thought of Dove as anything but soap?

It's all in the perception, the packaging, the marketing that makes the difference on how it is received.
The same is true about each one of us, we are like the Doves, we are Winning Women too!

Here's to enjoying a bubble bath and light jazz!

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2008-05-09T23:33:00.000-05:00

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