Wow! It's been since June since I wrote in my blog and realized that my cup got so reved up that I forgot to share - I got a job! Pretty amazing after all we had gone through and sad, that there's still so many more waiting for their turns to get out of the unemployment line! So, where has my journey taken us? To central Virginia where I am now the Hotel GM for a Hyatt hotel! My Go-Go juice has been filled with meeting new people, motivating new staff, turning a property around to improve company scores and helping my family re-adjust to their new surroundings.
I would love to maintain my blog and hopefully provide some interesting trivia and news as our journey continues, but for the most part, my blogs will remain short, but hopefully valuable. My Go-Go Juice blog will always remain personal and continue to advocate for families, the unemployed, the less privledged and be a place to motivate and raise the strengths of others. I will always welcome ideas, comments and continued support - like most, our journey will never end and is ever changing!
For those of you who read and watched our life the last two years know from first hand my philosophy...never give up, falling down just means standing back up and always be thankful to those who keep you standing! And NEVER go anywhere or do anything without your own Go-Go Juice - the one and only inner motivator that no one else can provide!
Have a fantastic week ahead! I will be writing again soon!
Love and blessings!
Victoria
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - What? Employers Won't Hire the Unemployed?
Ok – it’s hot, it’s muggy, I just threw on shorts, my fans are running full blast and the storms are brewing. And it’s like ten o’clock at night! How’s your Go-Go Juice been brewing this week? We’ll, I’ve been putting ice cubes in mine, although, they just simply melt. Central Ohio is purely mid-town USA where all middle states just seem to bake, sweat and where people take extra showers. This week, large dark swirly clouds brought tornado's South of Columbus and North near Michigan and the tips of Eastern Indiana a few days ago. Tonight, the storms are coming in from the North. But here in my little world of Central Ohio, my Go-Go Juice steams worse than the storms when it comes to hearing negative issues regarding the unemployed.
I read an article this week written by Chris Isidore, senior writer of CNNMoney.com about how the unemployed are getting the huge message from potential employers – ‘Don’t waste your time applying – if you’re not employed, we don’t want you.’ Many people who know me, know how I’ve been unemployed for awhile myself. I’ve watched this economy crash and watched fellow friends and colleagues lose their jobs too. And, once job openings slowly emerged, employers have been seeking solely the “cream of the crop” – candidates with high education, 10+ years experience in selected fields with varying credentials…you know the kind. They’re the Vice Presidents of companies who got unfortunately downsized from internal changes. Many of the top executives are leaving us middle managers in the dust and way out in left field. Well – I must say, that’s competition and it’s been truly fierce. It never did stop me though from trying. I listen to fellow out-of-workers who’ve experienced the same. So for a while, I didn’t feel so bad. I have tremendous credibility out there and one hell of a resume (so I’ve been told) yet, I couldn’t get an offer if my life depended on it. While I still do contract work as it comes available, when all is said and done, it is not a replacement of my normal hotel executive career that I’ve invested so many years in. However, now I may know why – because I’m not already in a “persay” job. And don’t think for one moment, such recruiters or people of human resources want to see just any job – such people in these positions are mindless drones who do not wish to put quality to the test. If they don’t see you in a job in the exact title and time frame for which meets the parameters they’ve set forth, forget it. Just any job will not do.
Sadly, as the economy slowly turns around, there are still millions of unemployed workers out there striving for their next career step, opportunity to shine and heck, for that matter, their next meal. Many of you know any further unemployment extensions are just out of the question. For Ohio, the agency (1)ODJFS (Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services) stated that approximately 98,000 people are about to lose the last of their UC benefits at the end of this month (June) and another 83,000 people by the end of July. Oh and let’s look ahead – Ho-Ho-Ho! By November, another 300,000 people will be out of extensions as well. There’s a nifty Christmas Gift in that stocking! So, if companies are not hiring the unemployed, then what will the unemployed do? I bet they’ll move away to another state like Iowa – where the unemployment rate is currently sitting at a very comfortable 6.8% and where professional and business services actually added over 5,000 new jobs over this past year. Now, if people move away, how does that affect (2)Ohio at its current 10.7% unemployment rate? Well, we currently have (3)approximately over 11 million, 500 thousand people living throughout the state. So…what’s the loss of a few hundred thousand people? No sweat! But, if we look at the worst areas to get hit, the urban areas like Mansfield, Delaware, Toledo, Greenville, Loveland, Montgomery, etc.? Those townships will be facing huge losses of revenues derived from the once hardworking individuals. That’s money lost for local fire departments, police departments, schools, road ways, wherever tax dollars are put to good use. We all know that a loss of tax dollars means a loss of motivators for even small business owners to come and thrive – hell, what would a veterinary doctor do if he had no clients? According to the article, businesses have been given a carrot to hire the unemployed. What’s the carrot? It’s a whopping 6.2% tax break from paying Social Security for each hired individual throughout the year. Let’s break that down. (4) Even at minimum wage, a given employee makes $7.00 per hour in the state of Ohio. In one week, at minimum wage, a potential employer would pay $17.36 per week in Social Security taxes. This tax break is an exemption for one year. For 52 weeks, the employer will get a savings of $902 from exemption for one employee. So, if even the small business owner who employs say 15 people and a fourth of those are newly hired unemployed, the business would get a huge thank you in the amount of savings of over $3,300 dollars at the end of the year. I don’t know about you, but I have many things I could do productively with savings over $3,000. So what’s wrong with these employers?
Well, let that be your Go-Go Juice for the next week! If you’re still unemployed – don’t beat yourself over the head…just get past the initial bureaucracy tied up in the line of HR and go straight to the decision maker. Welcomed or not, your chances might increase at an interview rather than waiting for nothing from someone who’s not even going to consider you at all. Good luck – keep your chin up and always keep a full cup of Go-Go Juice nearby.
Footnotes:
(1) ODJFS - Newspaper, The Plain Dealer
(2) Ohio Unemployment Rate - Bureau Labor of Statistics
(3) Ohio Population - US Census Bureau
(4) Ohio State Minimum Wage - Department of Commerce
I read an article this week written by Chris Isidore, senior writer of CNNMoney.com about how the unemployed are getting the huge message from potential employers – ‘Don’t waste your time applying – if you’re not employed, we don’t want you.’ Many people who know me, know how I’ve been unemployed for awhile myself. I’ve watched this economy crash and watched fellow friends and colleagues lose their jobs too. And, once job openings slowly emerged, employers have been seeking solely the “cream of the crop” – candidates with high education, 10+ years experience in selected fields with varying credentials…you know the kind. They’re the Vice Presidents of companies who got unfortunately downsized from internal changes. Many of the top executives are leaving us middle managers in the dust and way out in left field. Well – I must say, that’s competition and it’s been truly fierce. It never did stop me though from trying. I listen to fellow out-of-workers who’ve experienced the same. So for a while, I didn’t feel so bad. I have tremendous credibility out there and one hell of a resume (so I’ve been told) yet, I couldn’t get an offer if my life depended on it. While I still do contract work as it comes available, when all is said and done, it is not a replacement of my normal hotel executive career that I’ve invested so many years in. However, now I may know why – because I’m not already in a “persay” job. And don’t think for one moment, such recruiters or people of human resources want to see just any job – such people in these positions are mindless drones who do not wish to put quality to the test. If they don’t see you in a job in the exact title and time frame for which meets the parameters they’ve set forth, forget it. Just any job will not do.
Sadly, as the economy slowly turns around, there are still millions of unemployed workers out there striving for their next career step, opportunity to shine and heck, for that matter, their next meal. Many of you know any further unemployment extensions are just out of the question. For Ohio, the agency (1)ODJFS (Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services) stated that approximately 98,000 people are about to lose the last of their UC benefits at the end of this month (June) and another 83,000 people by the end of July. Oh and let’s look ahead – Ho-Ho-Ho! By November, another 300,000 people will be out of extensions as well. There’s a nifty Christmas Gift in that stocking! So, if companies are not hiring the unemployed, then what will the unemployed do? I bet they’ll move away to another state like Iowa – where the unemployment rate is currently sitting at a very comfortable 6.8% and where professional and business services actually added over 5,000 new jobs over this past year. Now, if people move away, how does that affect (2)Ohio at its current 10.7% unemployment rate? Well, we currently have (3)approximately over 11 million, 500 thousand people living throughout the state. So…what’s the loss of a few hundred thousand people? No sweat! But, if we look at the worst areas to get hit, the urban areas like Mansfield, Delaware, Toledo, Greenville, Loveland, Montgomery, etc.? Those townships will be facing huge losses of revenues derived from the once hardworking individuals. That’s money lost for local fire departments, police departments, schools, road ways, wherever tax dollars are put to good use. We all know that a loss of tax dollars means a loss of motivators for even small business owners to come and thrive – hell, what would a veterinary doctor do if he had no clients? According to the article, businesses have been given a carrot to hire the unemployed. What’s the carrot? It’s a whopping 6.2% tax break from paying Social Security for each hired individual throughout the year. Let’s break that down. (4) Even at minimum wage, a given employee makes $7.00 per hour in the state of Ohio. In one week, at minimum wage, a potential employer would pay $17.36 per week in Social Security taxes. This tax break is an exemption for one year. For 52 weeks, the employer will get a savings of $902 from exemption for one employee. So, if even the small business owner who employs say 15 people and a fourth of those are newly hired unemployed, the business would get a huge thank you in the amount of savings of over $3,300 dollars at the end of the year. I don’t know about you, but I have many things I could do productively with savings over $3,000. So what’s wrong with these employers?
Well, let that be your Go-Go Juice for the next week! If you’re still unemployed – don’t beat yourself over the head…just get past the initial bureaucracy tied up in the line of HR and go straight to the decision maker. Welcomed or not, your chances might increase at an interview rather than waiting for nothing from someone who’s not even going to consider you at all. Good luck – keep your chin up and always keep a full cup of Go-Go Juice nearby.
Footnotes:
(1) ODJFS - Newspaper, The Plain Dealer
(2) Ohio Unemployment Rate - Bureau Labor of Statistics
(3) Ohio Population - US Census Bureau
(4) Ohio State Minimum Wage - Department of Commerce
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Oil, Water and Wildlife Just Don't Mix!
Good Morning to my many readers...how's your Go-Go Juice brewing lately? Mine is bubbling over in smelly slime and gastric distaste as our horrific oil spill continues to weigh heavy on our coast line, pocket books and worst of all, our eco-system. Millions of Americans are truly counting the immense amount of damage this event has endured, but I fear as many, the worst is yet to come. As the oil piles up, there are not enough bodies or equipment to clean it up. Meanwhile the oil is beginning to fill our streams and lakes that pour out into the rest of our country’s natural irrigation systems.
Millions of fishes, birds, plants, everything is becoming infected. Then, realizing much of this gulf area in the Louisiana territory, which is prone to hurricanes, can you imagine the oil being flung around hundreds of miles in all directions and how wide spread the damage will continue? It’s just sad and dangerous to future survival for all. I know I’m painting a rather demising situation, but the chemicals alone that will be reminiscent to our land will have lasting effects on how we treat water for usage, eat or not eat various foods, the animals prone to extinction from this, the inability to grow crops affected by this disaster…the list just goes on. Now, I do believe that nature has a way of taking care of itself – but what it will do is adapt, which means over time, we could see mutations that will affect our way of living or in the way we care for our nature. What I have a hard time understanding is why we haven’t sent welders under water to simply seal up the pipes? I understand that there are politics and policies written in place that supposedly tie hands in terms of how BP or anyone for that matter resolves the issue, but regardless, I think someone ought to just get in there and fix it and let the big chiefs fight it out later. It’s one thing to watch our eco-system, climates and other natural wonders change, immerge and die out at nature’s hand, but when man plays the perpetrator to this extent, shame on us. We’ve worked hard as a society to get people to recycle, pick up trash and somehow be more environment friendly or at minimum, mind conscience of how we impact Mother Nature, but good heavens! This is becoming a deliberate act of negligence of all leaders who are involved.
While anyone who watches these events discovers he has an opportunity or connection or idea to contribute to the resolve of this spill, I encourage any and all involvement. I added a slide show to give a visual understanding to the immense amount of oil we are dealing with, if you haven’t seen the pictures already. It will sour the cream in your Go-Go Juice instantly. So this week, support the volunteers and people out there using their Go-Go Juice at every effort to save our planet – and in this case, our own land and waters…or someday, your Go-Go Juice may not taste the same! Have a great week!
Millions of fishes, birds, plants, everything is becoming infected. Then, realizing much of this gulf area in the Louisiana territory, which is prone to hurricanes, can you imagine the oil being flung around hundreds of miles in all directions and how wide spread the damage will continue? It’s just sad and dangerous to future survival for all. I know I’m painting a rather demising situation, but the chemicals alone that will be reminiscent to our land will have lasting effects on how we treat water for usage, eat or not eat various foods, the animals prone to extinction from this, the inability to grow crops affected by this disaster…the list just goes on. Now, I do believe that nature has a way of taking care of itself – but what it will do is adapt, which means over time, we could see mutations that will affect our way of living or in the way we care for our nature. What I have a hard time understanding is why we haven’t sent welders under water to simply seal up the pipes? I understand that there are politics and policies written in place that supposedly tie hands in terms of how BP or anyone for that matter resolves the issue, but regardless, I think someone ought to just get in there and fix it and let the big chiefs fight it out later. It’s one thing to watch our eco-system, climates and other natural wonders change, immerge and die out at nature’s hand, but when man plays the perpetrator to this extent, shame on us. We’ve worked hard as a society to get people to recycle, pick up trash and somehow be more environment friendly or at minimum, mind conscience of how we impact Mother Nature, but good heavens! This is becoming a deliberate act of negligence of all leaders who are involved.
While anyone who watches these events discovers he has an opportunity or connection or idea to contribute to the resolve of this spill, I encourage any and all involvement. I added a slide show to give a visual understanding to the immense amount of oil we are dealing with, if you haven’t seen the pictures already. It will sour the cream in your Go-Go Juice instantly. So this week, support the volunteers and people out there using their Go-Go Juice at every effort to save our planet – and in this case, our own land and waters…or someday, your Go-Go Juice may not taste the same! Have a great week!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Schools Out, Bored Teens - Can a Mom Trade?
Well – it’s 2 o’clock in the morning out here in Ohio, I’m snackin’ on a mini-chocolate crunch bar and sipping at a wonderfully warm cup of – you got it…my Go-Go Juice! All is silent in the house except for purring kitties and snoring children – all who have out done themselves for another year. That’s right – it’s all over. Whew! Another school year has come and gone…and, would you believe it? Not even three hours after coming home jubilantly from school did I hear those dreadful summertime blues – “I’m Bored!” Oh good grief! They usually give me a couple weeks before I hear those words! This proves to be a very long summer. But, after all is said and done, I have much to be proud of as Cassy walked the line in her cap and gown! Oh the tears, the memories of my high school days and the reminder of how many years have flown by. It is truly an accomplishment for us both! Oh Ya! The endless nights of burning candles of homework, the dreaded alarm clock that even beat the rooster’s call – the whining and moaning of going to school, the meetings, the greetings, the TAXI driving…my, my, my. And to think, I only have four more kids to go! LOL! But I have to say, Cassy did a tremendous job at meeting her challenges and getting great grades to boot! Is she college bound? Not just yet. It’s been a very stressful year for the family, so she will probably take a break and help me out some, but she does have her eye on returning to California and possibly going to USC! Hmmm! I’m not sure I see her as a Trojan gal – but on the other, I don’t see her as a Bruin, either! She is naturally gifted in the Arts and has an eye and hand skill in fashion design, architecture, and interior designing, but at the end of her year, she suddenly drew an interest toward education. Yep! She just might turn out to be a teacher. So who knows…the world is her oyster now and the paths ahead are full of adventure and mystery. Reality will also set in as she discovers the cost to paving the way to her dreams. Something we all face, especially today in our devastated economy.
While we as a nation are finally seeing a bit of rebound and that the growth of new business and revenues are slowly increasing, she will be facing high costs to gain the further education and expenses needed to continue her successes. Maybe she’ll be lucky enough to barter her way to a successful career. Think I’m joking? Bartering is gaining a lot of popularity as more and more people find creative means to acquiring needs without paying the hard to get cash.
As millions of US Americans are still out of work and unemployment benefits ending, you’ve read my concerns on the demands of civic organizations and non-profit agencies waning on the abilities to pick up the numerous tabs of needs – and that’s just for basic necessities. What if an individual finds a way to excel himself raising his or her own productivity by offering a service in exchange to acquire a need that someone else has? It’s like taking your cow down to the market and when others can’t give you cold hard cash for a great product, what do you do? You trade it in for two pigs, some eggs and flour.
Now, what if we did that in today’s modern world of business? What if I needed a website built and Mr. IT Guy would be happy to build it for me, but he wants to find a piano tutor for his son and I happen to play piano! So, we trade! We both get what we need and no one pays the cash for it…just our own investment of time. But now, in the art of bartering, it’s not so practical if we each live on the opposite side of the country from each other. So, how do we make this practical? Time banks were developed and are now popping up all over the nation. Anyone can create a group associated with these Time Banks where members would actually invest their “time” by contributing X-Amount of labor hours of their work without getting paid. Let’s say, a hairstylist decides to become a member. This hairstylist would work for four hours each week cutting people’s hair without pay, but the hours are registered with the exchange. One day down the road, when the hairstylist is in need of a service, but cannot pay for it, he/she can then look into using his/her “time” investment dollars to pay for a “wedding cake”. This is what Maria Villacreses did for her wedding as stated by Michael Rubinkam, an Associated Press writer when he published her story as well as the stories of other “Time Dollar” members. Click here to read the article. According to the article, there are approximately 115 Time Banks across the country with another 100 preparing for new development and membership has risen above 15,000 people. One bank is listed to be over 10 years old. Ten years old! I didn’t know these types of banks existed! Now, how cool is that? And, what better time to have such resources made available to the public. Now it’s just a matter of time in getting the word out on the street! No doubt more and more people will take advantage of this amazing opportunity to beat the economic woes! So, there you have it…Cassy just might get through college with Time Dollars – sense and time well spent! No pun intended! LOL.
So dear friends and valued readers – sip your Go-Go Juice and enjoy its every drop. It may have been made available to you by someone looking to trade. Have a wonderful week ahead and don’t get too caught up into the summertime blues. I’ll have upcoming tips for some wonderful trips – where of course you’ll be able to take your Go-Go Juice as well. Blessings!
While we as a nation are finally seeing a bit of rebound and that the growth of new business and revenues are slowly increasing, she will be facing high costs to gain the further education and expenses needed to continue her successes. Maybe she’ll be lucky enough to barter her way to a successful career. Think I’m joking? Bartering is gaining a lot of popularity as more and more people find creative means to acquiring needs without paying the hard to get cash.
As millions of US Americans are still out of work and unemployment benefits ending, you’ve read my concerns on the demands of civic organizations and non-profit agencies waning on the abilities to pick up the numerous tabs of needs – and that’s just for basic necessities. What if an individual finds a way to excel himself raising his or her own productivity by offering a service in exchange to acquire a need that someone else has? It’s like taking your cow down to the market and when others can’t give you cold hard cash for a great product, what do you do? You trade it in for two pigs, some eggs and flour.
Now, what if we did that in today’s modern world of business? What if I needed a website built and Mr. IT Guy would be happy to build it for me, but he wants to find a piano tutor for his son and I happen to play piano! So, we trade! We both get what we need and no one pays the cash for it…just our own investment of time. But now, in the art of bartering, it’s not so practical if we each live on the opposite side of the country from each other. So, how do we make this practical? Time banks were developed and are now popping up all over the nation. Anyone can create a group associated with these Time Banks where members would actually invest their “time” by contributing X-Amount of labor hours of their work without getting paid. Let’s say, a hairstylist decides to become a member. This hairstylist would work for four hours each week cutting people’s hair without pay, but the hours are registered with the exchange. One day down the road, when the hairstylist is in need of a service, but cannot pay for it, he/she can then look into using his/her “time” investment dollars to pay for a “wedding cake”. This is what Maria Villacreses did for her wedding as stated by Michael Rubinkam, an Associated Press writer when he published her story as well as the stories of other “Time Dollar” members. Click here to read the article. According to the article, there are approximately 115 Time Banks across the country with another 100 preparing for new development and membership has risen above 15,000 people. One bank is listed to be over 10 years old. Ten years old! I didn’t know these types of banks existed! Now, how cool is that? And, what better time to have such resources made available to the public. Now it’s just a matter of time in getting the word out on the street! No doubt more and more people will take advantage of this amazing opportunity to beat the economic woes! So, there you have it…Cassy just might get through college with Time Dollars – sense and time well spent! No pun intended! LOL.
So dear friends and valued readers – sip your Go-Go Juice and enjoy its every drop. It may have been made available to you by someone looking to trade. Have a wonderful week ahead and don’t get too caught up into the summertime blues. I’ll have upcoming tips for some wonderful trips – where of course you’ll be able to take your Go-Go Juice as well. Blessings!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - A Memorial Weekend to Commemorate Our Heroes!
Hello! How is your Go-Go Juice today? I bet it’s full of wet, cold frothy goodness as you share some quality time with friends and family. This weekend is a nice long 4-day weekend as we all take the time to commemorate the heroes of our past, present and those preparing for our future! That’s right, it’s Memorial Day weekend. For my valued readers who may not share this patriotic holiday, it’s a time that is used to pay homage to all our US soldiers who died fighting for our country. However, we have now broadened our commemorations to include all heroes who’ve died in public service; our soldiers, firemen, police officers, civilians, coast guard, auxiliary units, security officers, ambulance drivers – anyone, who has the opportunity to serve our public, for the better interest of our public, but for whatever circumstance arose, put themselves at harm’s risk in effort to save someone else. I think public service says a lot for the individual who agrees to do such a job. Believe me, when you stop to think about the risk these people take, the end compensation is certainly not the reason they’re doing it.
Let me show you…
Any soldier, whether Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines, an average soldier who serves up to 5 years and can earn his or her way to become a rank of E5 – can make on average $2500 a month. Our average Firefighter makes an average of $40,000 per year, an ambulance driver (also known as an Emergency Medical Technician will make about $45,000, a Police Officer makes on average $25,000 to $45,000 depending on location, Coast Guards make on average $40,000, security guards make on average $20,000. Now, grant you, any one individual in these positions may have the opportunity to advance and with further education, move themselves up the ladder into specific positions that are specialized that will almost double the salary figures, however, when all is considered, the men and women who serve our public on the front line – most certainly don’t have the highest of salaries. This is where I can guarantee that money is not the driving force of our citizens. It was estimated in the year 2007 that we had 1,148,800 men and women serving as Firefighters (and 825,450 were volunteer workers). We had 87,000 Police Officers from a statistical report done back in 2000 and 2004. I would imagine we could add an additional 20% to estimate the current count – although, many police departments across the country were cut in budget laying off many officers due to our economic crisis. This is just a sample of our public service jobs. I must add that with our cost of living being so high, why then do these people work these jobs?
I’ll tell you! There is nothing more gratifying to end your day knowing you contributed to something bigger than you…bigger than life itself….to rush someone to the hospital whose barely holding onto life knowing your efforts helped them till one day, they come back to thank you; to pull kids or adults from a burning building where the victim gets to re-tell the horrific story, or where that one officer, pulled over the speeding driver ultimately stopping a 7-car pileup down the road. Think about the men and women who put themselves in front of flying bullets or mystery bombs hoping to prevent not the next World War, but an innocent victim from meeting his or her demise too early or are the front line statement of presence where the gross issue of politics will finally reach a common ground and people can reach agreements later saving each other’s countries. These unconditional acts are what define our men and women of public service and separate the timid from the heroic. They step into the blaze of glory so you can live a better more improved life. How many of us, can truly say we’d take a bullet for our neighbor or for someone we hardly know. Do you really want to suffocate and meet your own demise for the greater good of humanity? Well, these people do and it is them, who we celebrate for their victorious efforts and morn for those who gave all they had.
To all my readers, no matter what country, what time zone or what political scene we practice; we all have our heroes; those who go the distance at anytime, anywhere – unconditionally. Join me in a Toast to all our heroes – no matter their jobs, how long ago or how recent. So, today and tomorrow, raise your Go-Go Juice to commemorate those you remember. Our heroes need our support, our recognition and most of all, our heartfelt thanks. To all our heroes who have both fallen and survived – I thank you from the bottom of my heart. To their families – I thank you too, as it takes a lot of courage and effort on your part to keep them going, motivated and living strong as it’s not an easy job.
Have a very safe Memorial Day and take quality time with your family and friends. Till next week! Keep your Go-Go Juice nearby and keep it filled with all your hopes and aspirations!
Let me show you…
Any soldier, whether Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines, an average soldier who serves up to 5 years and can earn his or her way to become a rank of E5 – can make on average $2500 a month. Our average Firefighter makes an average of $40,000 per year, an ambulance driver (also known as an Emergency Medical Technician will make about $45,000, a Police Officer makes on average $25,000 to $45,000 depending on location, Coast Guards make on average $40,000, security guards make on average $20,000. Now, grant you, any one individual in these positions may have the opportunity to advance and with further education, move themselves up the ladder into specific positions that are specialized that will almost double the salary figures, however, when all is considered, the men and women who serve our public on the front line – most certainly don’t have the highest of salaries. This is where I can guarantee that money is not the driving force of our citizens. It was estimated in the year 2007 that we had 1,148,800 men and women serving as Firefighters (and 825,450 were volunteer workers). We had 87,000 Police Officers from a statistical report done back in 2000 and 2004. I would imagine we could add an additional 20% to estimate the current count – although, many police departments across the country were cut in budget laying off many officers due to our economic crisis. This is just a sample of our public service jobs. I must add that with our cost of living being so high, why then do these people work these jobs?
I’ll tell you! There is nothing more gratifying to end your day knowing you contributed to something bigger than you…bigger than life itself….to rush someone to the hospital whose barely holding onto life knowing your efforts helped them till one day, they come back to thank you; to pull kids or adults from a burning building where the victim gets to re-tell the horrific story, or where that one officer, pulled over the speeding driver ultimately stopping a 7-car pileup down the road. Think about the men and women who put themselves in front of flying bullets or mystery bombs hoping to prevent not the next World War, but an innocent victim from meeting his or her demise too early or are the front line statement of presence where the gross issue of politics will finally reach a common ground and people can reach agreements later saving each other’s countries. These unconditional acts are what define our men and women of public service and separate the timid from the heroic. They step into the blaze of glory so you can live a better more improved life. How many of us, can truly say we’d take a bullet for our neighbor or for someone we hardly know. Do you really want to suffocate and meet your own demise for the greater good of humanity? Well, these people do and it is them, who we celebrate for their victorious efforts and morn for those who gave all they had.
To all my readers, no matter what country, what time zone or what political scene we practice; we all have our heroes; those who go the distance at anytime, anywhere – unconditionally. Join me in a Toast to all our heroes – no matter their jobs, how long ago or how recent. So, today and tomorrow, raise your Go-Go Juice to commemorate those you remember. Our heroes need our support, our recognition and most of all, our heartfelt thanks. To all our heroes who have both fallen and survived – I thank you from the bottom of my heart. To their families – I thank you too, as it takes a lot of courage and effort on your part to keep them going, motivated and living strong as it’s not an easy job.
Have a very safe Memorial Day and take quality time with your family and friends. Till next week! Keep your Go-Go Juice nearby and keep it filled with all your hopes and aspirations!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - I'm Back with New Updates....
Good Evening to my many readers! I bet you wondered if I had fallen off the face of the planet – or if I just simply drowned in my own Go-Go Juice? LOL! Well, to say the least, I’ve been writing how my schedule has been getting busier by the minute. Writing daily has become most challenging. Please tell me you’ve been good to yourself and keeping your Go-Go Juice nearby and drinking plenty of it! Let’s start with some updates –
Notice the site change? I thought it was time to juice up my blog. I’ve changed a few things, besides color schemes – I’ve also changed my Adsense – again, click into what you see is interesting! Lord knows I need the income. Heck, now I’m sending one child off to college! Four more to go! Good grief, help me! You’ll also notice a couple new additions – I’m now Twittering! Tweet – Tweet! So, follow me as you wish! Also, I’m doing more on Fiverr – I now encourage people to post their websites on my blog to help them broaden their market opportunities. Go to my Fiverr for this project and I’ll add your site to my blog! You can also order me for Jingles! Cool, ha? This month’s featured websites are: New USA Friendly Casinos – now, you too can enjoy playing the slots and having a great time just like in Vegas, without leaving your living room! Forget Solitaire and Tetris – try New USA Casinos! I will get you hooked! Also, see: Resume Dictionary – are you job searching? This website is full of interesting tips, articles and support in developing the path for your career journey. Whether you’re unemployed or collecting a paycheck, Resume Dictionary will be a helpful tool and resource anytime!
Well, we’ve got just 7 more days and Cassy is done with HS – pretty much her last day and the others will end June 8th. Cassy walks the line June 6th. We’re so proud of her! What does she have planned afterwards? Sleeping – I’m sure. Ha – little does she know, I have loads planned.
I’m still interviewing and trying to find my way in this world! I’ve met so many new people – it’s been great! Many new doors are opening – I just hope one lands a permanent professional placement soon. I truly need a vacation from job searching and scraping to get by. I recently became a member of Hire US, America – visit their website: http://www.unionofunemployed.com/ I received yard/window posters and car bumper stickers to show how I support the unemployed. If you want some of your own, you can order as many as you want for FREE. I love free. There truly isn’t enough in this world that is free – except love and hugs. Ok –well, I know – even love and hugs can come with a price, but from me, they’re given unconditionally.
Now, because of my schedule, I’ll be blogging once a week on both blogs, unless I find something absolutely necessary to write about – which will then become my “special edition”. This way, my readers won’t let their Go-Go Juice go cold while waiting for my articles. Now, with that said, go on with your week with plenty of enthusiasm, solid goals and always with your Go-Go Juice! If you ever have a question, just email me any day and time: author.vmeyers@gmail.com. I may not be writing daily, but I’m here daily for you when you need me! Have a most productive week!
Notice the site change? I thought it was time to juice up my blog. I’ve changed a few things, besides color schemes – I’ve also changed my Adsense – again, click into what you see is interesting! Lord knows I need the income. Heck, now I’m sending one child off to college! Four more to go! Good grief, help me! You’ll also notice a couple new additions – I’m now Twittering! Tweet – Tweet! So, follow me as you wish! Also, I’m doing more on Fiverr – I now encourage people to post their websites on my blog to help them broaden their market opportunities. Go to my Fiverr for this project and I’ll add your site to my blog! You can also order me for Jingles! Cool, ha? This month’s featured websites are: New USA Friendly Casinos – now, you too can enjoy playing the slots and having a great time just like in Vegas, without leaving your living room! Forget Solitaire and Tetris – try New USA Casinos! I will get you hooked! Also, see: Resume Dictionary – are you job searching? This website is full of interesting tips, articles and support in developing the path for your career journey. Whether you’re unemployed or collecting a paycheck, Resume Dictionary will be a helpful tool and resource anytime!
Well, we’ve got just 7 more days and Cassy is done with HS – pretty much her last day and the others will end June 8th. Cassy walks the line June 6th. We’re so proud of her! What does she have planned afterwards? Sleeping – I’m sure. Ha – little does she know, I have loads planned.
I’m still interviewing and trying to find my way in this world! I’ve met so many new people – it’s been great! Many new doors are opening – I just hope one lands a permanent professional placement soon. I truly need a vacation from job searching and scraping to get by. I recently became a member of Hire US, America – visit their website: http://www.unionofunemployed.com/ I received yard/window posters and car bumper stickers to show how I support the unemployed. If you want some of your own, you can order as many as you want for FREE. I love free. There truly isn’t enough in this world that is free – except love and hugs. Ok –well, I know – even love and hugs can come with a price, but from me, they’re given unconditionally.
Now, because of my schedule, I’ll be blogging once a week on both blogs, unless I find something absolutely necessary to write about – which will then become my “special edition”. This way, my readers won’t let their Go-Go Juice go cold while waiting for my articles. Now, with that said, go on with your week with plenty of enthusiasm, solid goals and always with your Go-Go Juice! If you ever have a question, just email me any day and time: author.vmeyers@gmail.com. I may not be writing daily, but I’m here daily for you when you need me! Have a most productive week!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Cars...It's a Love Hate Relationship!!
Good Morning! How’s your Go-Go Juice going? Mine is still with me, but lately, it would appear I’ve needed way more to keep myself going! My car broke down this week. :(( How is it so many people can say that cars are a luxury item? Good grief! They’re almost as important as keeping stocked in toilet paper! They are truly a necessary evil, I tell you. When it broke down – it seemed like an electrical issue. But after long pain staking hours, I think it’s down to needing a Starter. Regardless, I couldn’t get it going and it was in a tow zone. Do you have any idea of how much anxiety that builds? The cost of tows today is like $200 or more. Ouch! That’s the cost of a new starter! After spending all day yesterday, it is finally back at my home and out of the dangers of getting towed, at least for the wrong reasons. Now, I have to find a cost effective way to fixing it. Have you been to the mechanic lately? Oh good grief! They charge close to a hundred dollars per hour in labor, let alone the parts. It’s no wonder so many of us pinching pennies get into the market of “Do it yourself”. Even then, the challenge is tremendous if you’re not per say a mechanic.
So, my blogs have unfortunately gone on the back burner. I will no doubt keep you posted. Surely, a diligent gal like me will get it rolling soon and I’ll be back to normal – or at least functional. Do keep your Go-Go Juice with you at all times. Everyday has the opportunity to change direction when you least expect it.
So, my blogs have unfortunately gone on the back burner. I will no doubt keep you posted. Surely, a diligent gal like me will get it rolling soon and I’ll be back to normal – or at least functional. Do keep your Go-Go Juice with you at all times. Everyday has the opportunity to change direction when you least expect it.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Cutting Coupons Doesn't Always Save You Money
OMG – are you sitting down with your Go-Go Juice this morning? Well – I last remember sipping mine when a bright light swallowed my whole being while cute little green men paraded around me showering me with sparkling jewels and sweet smelling rose pedals…OK – who spiked my coffee?
Ha – just kidding. It has been tremendously busy as we wrap up the end of the school year, continue the job search and get ready for the summer season. But you’ll be glad to know, I never put my Go-Go Juice down for one measly minute. It’s my main motivator to find ways to make money and save money. How many of you spend countless waking hours in contemplating the same? In this economy…I bet everyone is. All my close “buds” know that I do what I can to make an income, at least until I finally achieve a replacement from my last lost job – I offer everything from consultation to short term projects to helping out a neighbor to writing jingles (yes – I write jingles…check out my website). But, I can attest, it’s never enough. Hence, I do everything I can to save or as some would call, I’m thrifty. Now, the one thing I’ve noticed is when standing in line at the grocery store, I get a kick out of people who are what I term as “coupon fanatics”. I look through the Sunday Newspaper goody section – but I must say, I never really find coupons for what I buy, so I don’t use as many coupons unlike others, which leads me to wonder if people change their purchasing habits or needs based on discounts they find. For instance, I don’t normally purchase Tide (although I think it’s the best product on the market, it is one of the most expensive detergents – obviously for good reasons), however, I save usually over $4.00 a bottle by buying a lesser brand detergent that still does a good job at getting clothes clean. However, there’s a coupon for $1.00 of Tide – now…I can get double coupon savings (meaning $2.00), but that means I would be still spending an extra $2.00 than what I would budget. What about glass cleaner? I buy the generic brand that costs me no more than $1.19, but Windex offers a coupon for .35 cents off two bottles whereas I would have to spend almost $2.50 more to buy the product to get the savings. Do you see where I’m going with this? I think a lot of people “think” they’re saving money by using coupons when in reality, they are actually spending more just to use the coupon. We all pinch pennies, but truly, in our own perceptions, do we actually run the calculator and determine if we’re really saving or are we costing ourselves? How many of you go shopping for clothes on regular basis? If you do, the only question is, do you wear them? Are they needed? Clearly my baby Melissa does not need more clothes – she has plenty, but my house guest comes home more often lately with new little “outfits” that she spent .50 cents to $1.00 per outfit. Now, in the spirit of saving money – how cool is it to buy an outfit at such dirt cheap prices? But on the same token, it was not money saved…it was money spent.
I’ll be the first to say; that we need to spend a little now and then…it is good health to splurge a little whether it’s for you or for someone else. But on an ongoing basis, you’ll wind up in the “poor house” or at least have a longer time getting out of it. I came across an article provided by the New York Times, written by Alina Tugend. Its title is Penny-Pinching is Fine, but it Won’t Save the Profligate. I encourage you read it.
Well, it’s onward and upward my dear readers. Keep your Go-Go Juice nearby and sip it with a friend. Have an amazing weekend.
Ha – just kidding. It has been tremendously busy as we wrap up the end of the school year, continue the job search and get ready for the summer season. But you’ll be glad to know, I never put my Go-Go Juice down for one measly minute. It’s my main motivator to find ways to make money and save money. How many of you spend countless waking hours in contemplating the same? In this economy…I bet everyone is. All my close “buds” know that I do what I can to make an income, at least until I finally achieve a replacement from my last lost job – I offer everything from consultation to short term projects to helping out a neighbor to writing jingles (yes – I write jingles…check out my website). But, I can attest, it’s never enough. Hence, I do everything I can to save or as some would call, I’m thrifty. Now, the one thing I’ve noticed is when standing in line at the grocery store, I get a kick out of people who are what I term as “coupon fanatics”. I look through the Sunday Newspaper goody section – but I must say, I never really find coupons for what I buy, so I don’t use as many coupons unlike others, which leads me to wonder if people change their purchasing habits or needs based on discounts they find. For instance, I don’t normally purchase Tide (although I think it’s the best product on the market, it is one of the most expensive detergents – obviously for good reasons), however, I save usually over $4.00 a bottle by buying a lesser brand detergent that still does a good job at getting clothes clean. However, there’s a coupon for $1.00 of Tide – now…I can get double coupon savings (meaning $2.00), but that means I would be still spending an extra $2.00 than what I would budget. What about glass cleaner? I buy the generic brand that costs me no more than $1.19, but Windex offers a coupon for .35 cents off two bottles whereas I would have to spend almost $2.50 more to buy the product to get the savings. Do you see where I’m going with this? I think a lot of people “think” they’re saving money by using coupons when in reality, they are actually spending more just to use the coupon. We all pinch pennies, but truly, in our own perceptions, do we actually run the calculator and determine if we’re really saving or are we costing ourselves? How many of you go shopping for clothes on regular basis? If you do, the only question is, do you wear them? Are they needed? Clearly my baby Melissa does not need more clothes – she has plenty, but my house guest comes home more often lately with new little “outfits” that she spent .50 cents to $1.00 per outfit. Now, in the spirit of saving money – how cool is it to buy an outfit at such dirt cheap prices? But on the same token, it was not money saved…it was money spent.
I’ll be the first to say; that we need to spend a little now and then…it is good health to splurge a little whether it’s for you or for someone else. But on an ongoing basis, you’ll wind up in the “poor house” or at least have a longer time getting out of it. I came across an article provided by the New York Times, written by Alina Tugend. Its title is Penny-Pinching is Fine, but it Won’t Save the Profligate. I encourage you read it.
Well, it’s onward and upward my dear readers. Keep your Go-Go Juice nearby and sip it with a friend. Have an amazing weekend.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - It's Great to be a Mom!
Amid the howling winds and thundering clouds, as rain drowns the tender leaves; The storm is mighty but short lived; again the sun will rise above the trees" - By Victoria Meyers
And that it has dear readers. Good morning. It’s the first Monday of May and it’s going to be a beautiful day here in Lewis Center, Ohio. Mmmm, my Go-Go Juice tastes pretty good this morning…how about yours? Just eighteen more school days left and we can rejoice in the end of another exhausting year (at least for the first two weeks of summer break, until we’re ready to put the kids right back in – I know they’re gonna drive us nuts!) The weekend was a success! Cassy was a Prom Princess! She wore a beautiful red satin gown with a matching shoulder scarf; her long blonde hair flowed freely in finger curls and was escorted by a very nice boy who had graduated the year prior. Having taken tons of photos, danced the night away, she returned in absolute awe. She said she finally felt like a “teenager” for the first time and she got to dance her very first “slow dance” twice with her date. I’ll never forget my Prom and am quite sure she won’t either. It’s all about creating lasting memories. This is when it’s fun to be a mom!
Speaking of which, what are you doing for Mother’s Day? May 9th, this next Sunday, we get to celebrate all the wonderful things our mothers do for us….ummm – I can think of a few things we do like wake up kids for school, cook, clean, work, make appointments, help with homework, break up fights, facilitate sibling rivalries, remind kids for all the things they forget, pack the lunch, find the missing IPod, wash clothes, play taxi driver, encourage, cheerlead at all games, write notes for (who ever needs one), resolve problems, listen, discipline, teach, mentor, hug, play nurse, throw footballs, dance with and play “make-up artist”, keep the peace and somehow in all of it, help them to find their “identity” because they lost it after they turned 15. But, this is just to name a few things on our “to-do” lists. And, would we do them whether we were celebrated or not? Yes, because we’re Mom’s, plain and simple. We want the best for our family and we can get pretty opinionated about it too! To be celebrated and thanked for our unconditional love and offerings is no doubt very cool. What can you do for your mom? Do you ever wonder what might be a unique idea that would make her feel special? Here are some ideas:
- Get a piece of paper, fold it, grab a crayon in her favorite color and write something from your heart. It reminds her of you as a wee-little one and will touch her innermost “mommy” spirit.
- Take her to a restaurant of her favorite where she never gets to go.
- Treat her to a day spa for a day of pampering.
- Put a bunch of photos together and create a film to watch together as a family that reminds of her of why she is so valued and to see her contributions light up on the screen.
- Take her out to a club and go dancing – when was the last time you remember mom going out to dance?
- Take mom to the Zoo and have a picnic there.
There are lots of things you can do for mom that tell her how much you care. Sometimes it can be a simple hug. But then, I recommend you do this more often than once a year.
Sip on the sweet goodness of your Go-Go Juice and surely you’ll come up with just the right thing that Mom would absolutely love! Have a great day!
And that it has dear readers. Good morning. It’s the first Monday of May and it’s going to be a beautiful day here in Lewis Center, Ohio. Mmmm, my Go-Go Juice tastes pretty good this morning…how about yours? Just eighteen more school days left and we can rejoice in the end of another exhausting year (at least for the first two weeks of summer break, until we’re ready to put the kids right back in – I know they’re gonna drive us nuts!) The weekend was a success! Cassy was a Prom Princess! She wore a beautiful red satin gown with a matching shoulder scarf; her long blonde hair flowed freely in finger curls and was escorted by a very nice boy who had graduated the year prior. Having taken tons of photos, danced the night away, she returned in absolute awe. She said she finally felt like a “teenager” for the first time and she got to dance her very first “slow dance” twice with her date. I’ll never forget my Prom and am quite sure she won’t either. It’s all about creating lasting memories. This is when it’s fun to be a mom!
Speaking of which, what are you doing for Mother’s Day? May 9th, this next Sunday, we get to celebrate all the wonderful things our mothers do for us….ummm – I can think of a few things we do like wake up kids for school, cook, clean, work, make appointments, help with homework, break up fights, facilitate sibling rivalries, remind kids for all the things they forget, pack the lunch, find the missing IPod, wash clothes, play taxi driver, encourage, cheerlead at all games, write notes for (who ever needs one), resolve problems, listen, discipline, teach, mentor, hug, play nurse, throw footballs, dance with and play “make-up artist”, keep the peace and somehow in all of it, help them to find their “identity” because they lost it after they turned 15. But, this is just to name a few things on our “to-do” lists. And, would we do them whether we were celebrated or not? Yes, because we’re Mom’s, plain and simple. We want the best for our family and we can get pretty opinionated about it too! To be celebrated and thanked for our unconditional love and offerings is no doubt very cool. What can you do for your mom? Do you ever wonder what might be a unique idea that would make her feel special? Here are some ideas:
- Get a piece of paper, fold it, grab a crayon in her favorite color and write something from your heart. It reminds her of you as a wee-little one and will touch her innermost “mommy” spirit.
- Take her to a restaurant of her favorite where she never gets to go.
- Treat her to a day spa for a day of pampering.
- Put a bunch of photos together and create a film to watch together as a family that reminds of her of why she is so valued and to see her contributions light up on the screen.
- Take her out to a club and go dancing – when was the last time you remember mom going out to dance?
- Take mom to the Zoo and have a picnic there.
There are lots of things you can do for mom that tell her how much you care. Sometimes it can be a simple hug. But then, I recommend you do this more often than once a year.
Sip on the sweet goodness of your Go-Go Juice and surely you’ll come up with just the right thing that Mom would absolutely love! Have a great day!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Paying Homage to the Godmother of Civil Rights...
It’s Thursday and time is ticking – we’re almost to the weekend! Has your Go-Go Juice been driving your successes this week? How are you doing? I am going miles ahead down the road hoping to capture anything and everything that blossoms my flowers and brightens my rays….
Today I want to pay homage to a woman’s life for all her accomplishments, contributions and huge impact she has had on our black neighbors and women throughout our nation.
On March 24, 1912, a baby girl was born in Richmond, Virginia. Little did her parents or the town’s folks realize that their swaddled gift of love would become a nationwide influence to stop racial and gender discrimination for her fellow Americans. As she grew up, she became a woman of great passion and concern for people who were ultimately limited to education and obvious rights and wanted to make a contribution in the best way she could. Early on in life, at the age of 24, she became a civil rights activist and remained steadfast throughout the rest of her life. She was awarded nationally 8-times, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004 for her continuous efforts. She organized “Wednesdays in Mississippi” that united black and white women that not only drew women in general closer together socially, but also brought out the best in women’s social contributions for use in many organizations. She was a huge influence to desegregating kids in schools, to appoint black women into government jobs, was a consultant to “African Affairs to the Secretary of State”, and served on a number of committees to include the National Council for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research and the President's Committee on the Status of Women. She chaired the Executive Committee of the Leadership Conference of Civil Rights which is the largest civil rights organization in the entire United States. During President Obama’s inauguration, she was an honored guest who had a great opportunity to be seated nearby on his stage. Today, Dorothy Height is honored as the Godmother of Civil Rights. Dr. Luther King Jr. would be so proud! She died last week on April 20th. President Obama will be giving her eulogy today at her funeral in Washington DC at the National Cathedral. What a wonderful lady she was and I can’t thank her enough for her contributions that allowed me to be the leader that I have been and continue to be.
With tremendous admiration and gratitude, I dedicate my blog today to:
Dorothy Irene Height
March 24, 1912 – April 20, 2010
“A woman who leaves behind a legacy, who has paved a road to a future where women and men of all races can come together in collaboration, leadership and social understandings that will ultimately impact our continued abilities to grow as a nation of one. “ – Victoria Meyers
Today I want to pay homage to a woman’s life for all her accomplishments, contributions and huge impact she has had on our black neighbors and women throughout our nation.
On March 24, 1912, a baby girl was born in Richmond, Virginia. Little did her parents or the town’s folks realize that their swaddled gift of love would become a nationwide influence to stop racial and gender discrimination for her fellow Americans. As she grew up, she became a woman of great passion and concern for people who were ultimately limited to education and obvious rights and wanted to make a contribution in the best way she could. Early on in life, at the age of 24, she became a civil rights activist and remained steadfast throughout the rest of her life. She was awarded nationally 8-times, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004 for her continuous efforts. She organized “Wednesdays in Mississippi” that united black and white women that not only drew women in general closer together socially, but also brought out the best in women’s social contributions for use in many organizations. She was a huge influence to desegregating kids in schools, to appoint black women into government jobs, was a consultant to “African Affairs to the Secretary of State”, and served on a number of committees to include the National Council for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research and the President's Committee on the Status of Women. She chaired the Executive Committee of the Leadership Conference of Civil Rights which is the largest civil rights organization in the entire United States. During President Obama’s inauguration, she was an honored guest who had a great opportunity to be seated nearby on his stage. Today, Dorothy Height is honored as the Godmother of Civil Rights. Dr. Luther King Jr. would be so proud! She died last week on April 20th. President Obama will be giving her eulogy today at her funeral in Washington DC at the National Cathedral. What a wonderful lady she was and I can’t thank her enough for her contributions that allowed me to be the leader that I have been and continue to be.
With tremendous admiration and gratitude, I dedicate my blog today to:
Dorothy Irene Height
March 24, 1912 – April 20, 2010
“A woman who leaves behind a legacy, who has paved a road to a future where women and men of all races can come together in collaboration, leadership and social understandings that will ultimately impact our continued abilities to grow as a nation of one. “ – Victoria Meyers
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Mathew 7:1 - Do Not Judge or You Too, Will be Judged...
Good hump of the week to ya! It’s Wednesday and Go-Go Juice is flowing quickly this week. How’s your juice brewing? There’s been an explosion to new job leads this week – four times more than I’ve seen in the last few months! Grant you, my observation is with the hospitality industry mostly. But to me, it’s a good sign in our devastating economy. Today, however, I wish to bring attention to something that just shocked me – all who know me, know that I am a huge believer in the human spirit.
I constantly raise people up on pedestals for their courage, their creativeness, their support for others, for their genuine overall humanity. Now, what I’m about to mention does not reflect on the overall American Public, but a small few individuals took my guts, my heart, my soul and ripped them to shreds after learning that a hero perished while others just walked on by, walked over and gawked over his dying body. Sound familiar? You bet! I’m sorry to say, but when I learned that a homeless man who tried to help a woman victim from perpetrators, had been stabbed viciously in his ultimate act of kindness, that his only reward was ignorance, betrayal and utter repugnance from the public who didn’t give a damn.
If you are not familiar with the story, a homeless man in NY City, witnessed a woman being robbed. His immediate response was to help her and during the struggle, he was stabbed. His efforts allowed her to run away to safety and caused the perpetrators to run in a separate direction. The man fell to the ground, on a sidewalk in front of an apartment building entrance, bleeding profusely where people just walked on by without offering to help. How do we know what happened? It was all caught on tape, from beginning to end. The general consensus was that local New Yorkers have developed a pre disposed opinion of strangers lying on the ground – that they’re homeless and usually drunk or drug affected and don’t want to be involved. And, was he judged to be an alcoholic or addict because being homeless, he wore tattered clothes, or looked a bit unclean, or his hair was scraggly? Why are the “homeless” labeled in such manners? Since when was being poor considered a sin? And I have to ask, for those who consider themselves self righteous who don’t drink, smoke, or use foul language, what then is your vice, because we all have a vice and we all have committed a “sin”.
Now, folks, I am a mutt of religious backgrounds, but one of tremendous great faith. There is a world famous saying coming to mind. You know it too. “Let He Who is Without Sin Cast the First Stone”. Since when has society decided that humanity has its limitations? Ok – how many people sent help to Haitians who may have been drunk, drug addicts, thieves, mobsters, etc? But that didn’t stop people from helping to save lives, now did it?
I want to send the message loud and clear – we are a society of imperfect people. Many strive with due diligence to improve, change or effect ourselves in such ways that we hope to be better tomorrow than we are today. Some have extreme challenges to accomplish that as well. And yes, there are those who have given up. But when a life is suspected to be at harms risk, even if you do think the person lying on the sidewalk, or slumped over abnormally in chair or a bench, is not worth a minute’s time to determine if an authority figure should be involved? And for that matter, if a person who has given up on life is lying on the ground somewhere at sometime, shouldn’t authorities have him or her moved anyway to prevent further hazards? Come on, people.
I certainly hope that those who walked passed this man, saw the news, took a gasp when they recognized the scene and realized that they contributed to this poor man’s death. I hope they realize that they could’ve have helped to save his life had they been responsive just by being little more “human”.
We must look out for one another no matter our circumstances. If you find yourself in a similar situation and I pray that you don’t, but if so, please don’t look the other way. You’re immediate judgment may be tainted wrongly and you just might save the life of another person who was supposed to impact someone else positively later down the road. I suggest you read a book by Mitch Albom “The Five People You Meet in Heaven”. We all impact each other in ways we may not necessarily see. Enjoy the rest of your day. Sip your Go-Go Juice slowly today while reflecting on these issues. It’s your own humanity at stake.
Many Blessings!
To Read the Story - Click Here
I constantly raise people up on pedestals for their courage, their creativeness, their support for others, for their genuine overall humanity. Now, what I’m about to mention does not reflect on the overall American Public, but a small few individuals took my guts, my heart, my soul and ripped them to shreds after learning that a hero perished while others just walked on by, walked over and gawked over his dying body. Sound familiar? You bet! I’m sorry to say, but when I learned that a homeless man who tried to help a woman victim from perpetrators, had been stabbed viciously in his ultimate act of kindness, that his only reward was ignorance, betrayal and utter repugnance from the public who didn’t give a damn.
If you are not familiar with the story, a homeless man in NY City, witnessed a woman being robbed. His immediate response was to help her and during the struggle, he was stabbed. His efforts allowed her to run away to safety and caused the perpetrators to run in a separate direction. The man fell to the ground, on a sidewalk in front of an apartment building entrance, bleeding profusely where people just walked on by without offering to help. How do we know what happened? It was all caught on tape, from beginning to end. The general consensus was that local New Yorkers have developed a pre disposed opinion of strangers lying on the ground – that they’re homeless and usually drunk or drug affected and don’t want to be involved. And, was he judged to be an alcoholic or addict because being homeless, he wore tattered clothes, or looked a bit unclean, or his hair was scraggly? Why are the “homeless” labeled in such manners? Since when was being poor considered a sin? And I have to ask, for those who consider themselves self righteous who don’t drink, smoke, or use foul language, what then is your vice, because we all have a vice and we all have committed a “sin”.
Now, folks, I am a mutt of religious backgrounds, but one of tremendous great faith. There is a world famous saying coming to mind. You know it too. “Let He Who is Without Sin Cast the First Stone”. Since when has society decided that humanity has its limitations? Ok – how many people sent help to Haitians who may have been drunk, drug addicts, thieves, mobsters, etc? But that didn’t stop people from helping to save lives, now did it?
I want to send the message loud and clear – we are a society of imperfect people. Many strive with due diligence to improve, change or effect ourselves in such ways that we hope to be better tomorrow than we are today. Some have extreme challenges to accomplish that as well. And yes, there are those who have given up. But when a life is suspected to be at harms risk, even if you do think the person lying on the sidewalk, or slumped over abnormally in chair or a bench, is not worth a minute’s time to determine if an authority figure should be involved? And for that matter, if a person who has given up on life is lying on the ground somewhere at sometime, shouldn’t authorities have him or her moved anyway to prevent further hazards? Come on, people.
I certainly hope that those who walked passed this man, saw the news, took a gasp when they recognized the scene and realized that they contributed to this poor man’s death. I hope they realize that they could’ve have helped to save his life had they been responsive just by being little more “human”.
We must look out for one another no matter our circumstances. If you find yourself in a similar situation and I pray that you don’t, but if so, please don’t look the other way. You’re immediate judgment may be tainted wrongly and you just might save the life of another person who was supposed to impact someone else positively later down the road. I suggest you read a book by Mitch Albom “The Five People You Meet in Heaven”. We all impact each other in ways we may not necessarily see. Enjoy the rest of your day. Sip your Go-Go Juice slowly today while reflecting on these issues. It’s your own humanity at stake.
Many Blessings!
To Read the Story - Click Here
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Pool Water is Not Just for Swimming...It Can Save the Day!
Good morning to you! How is your Go-Go Juice brewing this morning? OMG – I thought I had run out this morning – couldn’t find any and fervently searched the cupboards, pushing the cans of tomatoes and green beans aside and finally, I found it! Oh – to go a day without Go-Go Juice would be an absolute catastrophe! Awe! The sweet, steamy goodness of Go-Go Juice is the ultimate go-getter for every day!
You know, I was in a discussion last night on LinkedIn and shared some thoughts on how to put an emergency preparedness kit together when it comes to management emergencies. In the thread of discussions, I had mentioned an issue that arose in one of my hotels and how my staff and I put our “kit” to work! A participating member wrote me in utter laughter because he had identified that hoteliers have the most opportunities to share “hotel horror stories” and to hear how management resolve such stories is a hoot! With that thought, I decided how you too, could share and possibly identify with the characters of the story…read on:
This particular sold out night at the Holiday Inn of Hudson, Ohio, we had prepared for a full house, plus three different banquets to fill our 17,000 square feet of conference space totaling up to 350 people. One of the banquets had produced 250 attendees. It was a gala event that started sometime around 5PM. Everyone looked beautiful walking through the hallways – women wore gorgeous glittering gowns while their male counterparts dawned on tuxes and tails. I thought we had just sponsored the annual Emmy Awards. Everyone was enjoying themselves and was finally seated to engage into their event and their dinner had started. About half an hour into the event, the kitchen notified me as the General Manager that we didn’t have any water. Maintenance scrambled to identify the problem and discovered how our operation was not the source of the problem. Having made a quick call to the company (as if to ask, “OK, did our company pay the water bill…we’re out”) only to learn that a main water pipe located 1 ½ miles away had broken and that the entire area would be out…for hours.
Now, if you’re not experienced in working in hotels (or restaurants for that matter) then you’re not accustomed to experiencing or solving problems that occur behind the scenes. As a consumer, you become the victim and simply expect the problem fixed or to be offered an alternative. Right? Of course right. But I was charged with looking at the dynamics in whole…no water means no washing dishes, no water for drinking, no water for showers, no water cleaning and no water for…yes, toilets. And, what’s worse is in a public environment, such as a hotel, if you run out of water for 5 or more hours, you must evacuate the hotel guests and place them into other properties, paying their cost for the room and board plus make travel accommodations for the trouble because the lack of water for that long of period becomes a health hazard. So, my problem with the current situation was rather large.
While we made immediate conservatory directions for various departments, my biggest concern was maintaining the banquets without hindrance. We were told we could be out for just a few hours and no longer. So, I decided to send staff out to acquire cases of bottled water to provide our dining guests, plus bring a few 10 gallon drums of water to use for the public restrooms. I directed someone to immediately print brief notices to our in-house guests with apologies for the inconveniences and then knowing that we could not per say afford to continually purchase big drums of water for the public restrooms, that we would rent three portables conveniently located outside the banquet rooms and shut down the public bathrooms upon their arrival.
Once this happened, I went in front of the banquet gala, to the podium and spoke confidently into the microphone. To break the ice, I gave a warm welcome to the entire group and asked if everyone was enjoying themselves. The responses were full of cheer, excitement and people were smiling, laughing having such a good time. My stomach wrenched at what I was about to say – so I tried to put a lighter upbeat spin on the news…the crowd seemed to understand about conserving their requests for water in terms of delivering water bottles, however once I mentioned the bathroom situation and offered the use of the port-a-potties – the room fell silent for a couple seconds and you heard a bunch of “ohhhhh…noooo…” and a few grumbles. Hence my news went over “real well” with our kings and queens. Needless to say, they did not use the portables, making our job more challenging.
While we could not “lock up” our bathrooms, our guests used them regardless of requests – remember, toilets don’t flush without water in the bowl. It’s after dinner – can you imagine? I make my point.
However, we could not leave the bathrooms vulnerable to after dinner treasures, but I couldn’t buy the amount of water needed either. My team and I worked ferociously to come up with a quick logical answer and my Food and Beverage Manager used her Go-Go Juice and found it! The answer lay at our feet, shimmering in delight with an abundant supply of goodness: our enormous indoor pool. So, we put together a means to transfer pool water into large containers and transport them to the bathrooms where my wonderful staff would maintain the cleanliness and flushing of the public ceramic bowls for the further convenience to our guests. Yes, after a couple more hours, the pain and anguish finally subsided as the main water supply was back to normal – we managed to save the day and come out smelling (well, better than it could have been).
Hotels are an environment that are always at risk of something challenging, exciting and full of new ventures. It’s an environment that’s never dull. What about you and what you do? Do you have a story to share that stands out in your mind of an enormous emergency and the way in which it was fixed? I’d love to hear about it. Write a comment or send me an email.
So, be sure to keep Go-Go Juice in your management emergency preparedness kit – boy, it can really get you out of a bind! Have a great day!
You know, I was in a discussion last night on LinkedIn and shared some thoughts on how to put an emergency preparedness kit together when it comes to management emergencies. In the thread of discussions, I had mentioned an issue that arose in one of my hotels and how my staff and I put our “kit” to work! A participating member wrote me in utter laughter because he had identified that hoteliers have the most opportunities to share “hotel horror stories” and to hear how management resolve such stories is a hoot! With that thought, I decided how you too, could share and possibly identify with the characters of the story…read on:
This particular sold out night at the Holiday Inn of Hudson, Ohio, we had prepared for a full house, plus three different banquets to fill our 17,000 square feet of conference space totaling up to 350 people. One of the banquets had produced 250 attendees. It was a gala event that started sometime around 5PM. Everyone looked beautiful walking through the hallways – women wore gorgeous glittering gowns while their male counterparts dawned on tuxes and tails. I thought we had just sponsored the annual Emmy Awards. Everyone was enjoying themselves and was finally seated to engage into their event and their dinner had started. About half an hour into the event, the kitchen notified me as the General Manager that we didn’t have any water. Maintenance scrambled to identify the problem and discovered how our operation was not the source of the problem. Having made a quick call to the company (as if to ask, “OK, did our company pay the water bill…we’re out”) only to learn that a main water pipe located 1 ½ miles away had broken and that the entire area would be out…for hours.
Now, if you’re not experienced in working in hotels (or restaurants for that matter) then you’re not accustomed to experiencing or solving problems that occur behind the scenes. As a consumer, you become the victim and simply expect the problem fixed or to be offered an alternative. Right? Of course right. But I was charged with looking at the dynamics in whole…no water means no washing dishes, no water for drinking, no water for showers, no water cleaning and no water for…yes, toilets. And, what’s worse is in a public environment, such as a hotel, if you run out of water for 5 or more hours, you must evacuate the hotel guests and place them into other properties, paying their cost for the room and board plus make travel accommodations for the trouble because the lack of water for that long of period becomes a health hazard. So, my problem with the current situation was rather large.
While we made immediate conservatory directions for various departments, my biggest concern was maintaining the banquets without hindrance. We were told we could be out for just a few hours and no longer. So, I decided to send staff out to acquire cases of bottled water to provide our dining guests, plus bring a few 10 gallon drums of water to use for the public restrooms. I directed someone to immediately print brief notices to our in-house guests with apologies for the inconveniences and then knowing that we could not per say afford to continually purchase big drums of water for the public restrooms, that we would rent three portables conveniently located outside the banquet rooms and shut down the public bathrooms upon their arrival.
Once this happened, I went in front of the banquet gala, to the podium and spoke confidently into the microphone. To break the ice, I gave a warm welcome to the entire group and asked if everyone was enjoying themselves. The responses were full of cheer, excitement and people were smiling, laughing having such a good time. My stomach wrenched at what I was about to say – so I tried to put a lighter upbeat spin on the news…the crowd seemed to understand about conserving their requests for water in terms of delivering water bottles, however once I mentioned the bathroom situation and offered the use of the port-a-potties – the room fell silent for a couple seconds and you heard a bunch of “ohhhhh…noooo…” and a few grumbles. Hence my news went over “real well” with our kings and queens. Needless to say, they did not use the portables, making our job more challenging.
While we could not “lock up” our bathrooms, our guests used them regardless of requests – remember, toilets don’t flush without water in the bowl. It’s after dinner – can you imagine? I make my point.
However, we could not leave the bathrooms vulnerable to after dinner treasures, but I couldn’t buy the amount of water needed either. My team and I worked ferociously to come up with a quick logical answer and my Food and Beverage Manager used her Go-Go Juice and found it! The answer lay at our feet, shimmering in delight with an abundant supply of goodness: our enormous indoor pool. So, we put together a means to transfer pool water into large containers and transport them to the bathrooms where my wonderful staff would maintain the cleanliness and flushing of the public ceramic bowls for the further convenience to our guests. Yes, after a couple more hours, the pain and anguish finally subsided as the main water supply was back to normal – we managed to save the day and come out smelling (well, better than it could have been).
Hotels are an environment that are always at risk of something challenging, exciting and full of new ventures. It’s an environment that’s never dull. What about you and what you do? Do you have a story to share that stands out in your mind of an enormous emergency and the way in which it was fixed? I’d love to hear about it. Write a comment or send me an email.
So, be sure to keep Go-Go Juice in your management emergency preparedness kit – boy, it can really get you out of a bind! Have a great day!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - The Human Spirit "Twisters" with Amazing Faith...
Well, the kids are off at school, the little one is still asleep, there’s a slight humming to the refrigerator, I can hear the delicate sounds of birds chirping – probably thrilled that the rain stopped and the smell of my Go-Go Juice is finally waking my senses. Good Monday morning to you. It’s been wet and soggy here in Ohio and sadly, Mother Nature has taken a toll on our southern states with over 54 tornadoes tearing through towns, especially Mississippi where 10 people were reported killed. There was a time I could not understand why people would live in these areas. I guess you really can’t avoid the killer twisters – they can truly pop out of “nowhere” unexpectedly. I must say, in all our travels from coast to coast, we’ve been fortunate to only encounter a few minor scrapes in barely getting hit by such winds.
Once while traveling through Colorado in its far eastern borders (where most funnels occur) we out ran a tornado while traveling west bound on the hwy. While we never saw the funnel; the radio was reporting the distance to our location and all we could see was solid black clouds that touched the ground up through the sky, hail and bellowing winds. It stayed right behind us for 30 some miles while I pushed the pedal to the medal. We finally pulled off to a gas station where all travelers had stopped and the storm suddenly turned to head south just short of the station. Whew! That was close one. And, never say “oh, well I live around hills – twisters don’t come around hills”…that’s bunk; we lived in Vermont up in a resort area surrounded by hills and a tornado funnel hit the ground on the other side of our hill, and we watched how it headed toward us with its high winds and black mass just pour over our hill and within minutes, the center of the storm passed right over us. We were living in multi-level condo at the time and ran the children down to the bottom level. The sound was amazing and scary at the same time. No funnel though – but then, its elements were just as damaging as if there were a funnel.
What you see on TV appears to be horrible when reporters show the aftermath of a tornado and listen to the interviewed survivors. You may say to yourself, “how sad, wow, man – etc, then change the channel”. But nothing will compare to the devastated feeling of driving through a leveled town that had been recently hit. While driving to my job two years ago from California to Ohio, we did just that. We were in Oklahoma and while creeping along the roadway, the tears just rolled down our cheeks to see the losses and feel the pain. Shattered glass, wood, leveled buildings, tossed furniture, peoples clothes, kids toys all strewn across the town. I always thought people were crazy to live in these risky areas, but you know what? It takes a special type of person, someone proud, and someone strong and determined who is passionate about their area to stay up with the tides. The human spirit was strong and thriving among the locals that day; the survivors had already set up plans and were working hard at putting their town back together. People worked together in harmony, collaborating, teaming and all contributing to bettering each other. And suddenly I realized something – people who live in such areas are not a people who thrive on worldly possessions. It’s not about the storm or how wide a tornado was or the 15 minutes of fame from being on TV – it’s the comradery, the fellowship, the union of spirits that attract and bind these people together. They have huge backbones, are hard workers and the ones we count on to generate our dairy, grains and produce. These are amazing people with amazing spirits and believe me, their Go-Go Juice does not come in a cup or a pot or sold at a nearby shop – it is their faith in each other and maybe a higher being that drives their passion.
So, on this rainy Monday or sunny, depending on where you are) keep these people in your thoughts, say a prayer and if you have some time, go lend a hand and be sure to share your Go-Go Juice with others. You know there’s plenty of Go-Go Juice to go around. Have the most productive week this week. Thank you for joining me this morning!
Once while traveling through Colorado in its far eastern borders (where most funnels occur) we out ran a tornado while traveling west bound on the hwy. While we never saw the funnel; the radio was reporting the distance to our location and all we could see was solid black clouds that touched the ground up through the sky, hail and bellowing winds. It stayed right behind us for 30 some miles while I pushed the pedal to the medal. We finally pulled off to a gas station where all travelers had stopped and the storm suddenly turned to head south just short of the station. Whew! That was close one. And, never say “oh, well I live around hills – twisters don’t come around hills”…that’s bunk; we lived in Vermont up in a resort area surrounded by hills and a tornado funnel hit the ground on the other side of our hill, and we watched how it headed toward us with its high winds and black mass just pour over our hill and within minutes, the center of the storm passed right over us. We were living in multi-level condo at the time and ran the children down to the bottom level. The sound was amazing and scary at the same time. No funnel though – but then, its elements were just as damaging as if there were a funnel.
What you see on TV appears to be horrible when reporters show the aftermath of a tornado and listen to the interviewed survivors. You may say to yourself, “how sad, wow, man – etc, then change the channel”. But nothing will compare to the devastated feeling of driving through a leveled town that had been recently hit. While driving to my job two years ago from California to Ohio, we did just that. We were in Oklahoma and while creeping along the roadway, the tears just rolled down our cheeks to see the losses and feel the pain. Shattered glass, wood, leveled buildings, tossed furniture, peoples clothes, kids toys all strewn across the town. I always thought people were crazy to live in these risky areas, but you know what? It takes a special type of person, someone proud, and someone strong and determined who is passionate about their area to stay up with the tides. The human spirit was strong and thriving among the locals that day; the survivors had already set up plans and were working hard at putting their town back together. People worked together in harmony, collaborating, teaming and all contributing to bettering each other. And suddenly I realized something – people who live in such areas are not a people who thrive on worldly possessions. It’s not about the storm or how wide a tornado was or the 15 minutes of fame from being on TV – it’s the comradery, the fellowship, the union of spirits that attract and bind these people together. They have huge backbones, are hard workers and the ones we count on to generate our dairy, grains and produce. These are amazing people with amazing spirits and believe me, their Go-Go Juice does not come in a cup or a pot or sold at a nearby shop – it is their faith in each other and maybe a higher being that drives their passion.
So, on this rainy Monday or sunny, depending on where you are) keep these people in your thoughts, say a prayer and if you have some time, go lend a hand and be sure to share your Go-Go Juice with others. You know there’s plenty of Go-Go Juice to go around. Have the most productive week this week. Thank you for joining me this morning!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Blog Update...
To my valued readers...due to a high demand for my attention on a lot of projects, I will not be writing my daily blog on weekends (Saturdays & Sundays). Still visit me though to find daily blogs Mon-Fri and to click into ads you see that will benefit you or a friend. Have a great day!
Time For Go-Go Juice! - What Can You Learn From Another's Life Experiences?
Good Saturday morning to you! I’m on my second cup of Go-Go Juice, laundry is going and the little one just finished a bowl of tomato soup. She’s very picky – it’s like a ritual every morning on picking out what she is willing to eat. Sometimes, I think, “this is truly a bad habit…I should not let her have a choice – just make her something to eat and put it in front of her; eventually training her to realize she can’t be picky”. I’ve tried that and the three-year old wins every time. Her will can be greater than mine sometimes. Lol. I just don’t want her growing up “picky”. It’s a tough world out there and people won’t just give her what she wants. This is what our grandparents taught our parents who taught us. But I do see a bit of a change in mindset. While a “picky” person may have challenges up ahead, in one way, their “pickiness” has the ability to make him or her more competitive and work hard to obtain what he or she wants. Those who learn to accept what they’re given may just learn the opposite – to accept mediocrity and deal with less than what is desired.
An interesting observation…however, there are truly people out there who aren’t picky or at least, choose to live in such a way that is un-cumbersome to others, un-demanding and quite frankly, self sustaining without much of any societal interaction. Have you ever given it much thought to the people you meet or read about? I find the human behavior very interesting and worthy – one can learn so much from the idiosyncrasies, lifestyle and the overall experience of another person’s life. I was touched by one story I read last night.
At 94 years old, he lived like a Hermit. Yet, he was an entrepreneur of the land. He lived his entire life without the technological conveniences of TVs, telephones, microwaves, etc. And he didn’t live in a house – at least to what society would deem a “home”. His abode was carved out from natures best minerals and soil produced by Idaho’s finest – he built a cave. In fact, he carved out many caves and rented them as a means for other people to live. He never worked for anyone, just himself; yet others were still benefited from having known him, either as a friend, as a consumer of his self-made goods and or services as a unique proprietor. He was a celebrity, written about in books. He even turned down invitations to appear on the Jay Leno show and was well known and respected among the locals. While he was not a churchgoer, he remained faithful and kept a bible in hand frequently. And, he was one of America’s soldiers having served in the Army during WWII in the Pacific and served out his time, only to return to his “home”. While many were concerned with his health, well being and way of living, he was removed from his lifestyle by a close friend and put in a “care center” at the age of 93. But he would not conform to modern living and actually left the facility on foot only to hitchhike his way back to his caves. Given many nicknames, he was best known as Dugout Dick. He was considered one of Idaho’s last legendary loners.
Now, here is a man, who looked like a true prospector and lived like one too. After reading the brief story about him, I felt a warmth surge my insides and a deep respect for him surfaced with awe and amazement. So many people could learn from his experiences and means of living. He was a determined soul who was creative, independent, enlightening, and obviously made an impact on others; and I bet he was as stubborn as a mule! He sadly passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2010.
Do you have a lot of friends, neighbors and contacts? How much do you really know about them and how can their life experiences enlighten you? Definitely something to think about over this weekend! Enjoy your Saturday and let your Go-Go Juice strengthen your relations! Have a fantastic weekend and we shall chat again on Monday.
Dedicated to the Memory of
Richard Zimmerman
(Dugout Dick)
1916 - 2010
Read His Story
Click Here
An interesting observation…however, there are truly people out there who aren’t picky or at least, choose to live in such a way that is un-cumbersome to others, un-demanding and quite frankly, self sustaining without much of any societal interaction. Have you ever given it much thought to the people you meet or read about? I find the human behavior very interesting and worthy – one can learn so much from the idiosyncrasies, lifestyle and the overall experience of another person’s life. I was touched by one story I read last night.
At 94 years old, he lived like a Hermit. Yet, he was an entrepreneur of the land. He lived his entire life without the technological conveniences of TVs, telephones, microwaves, etc. And he didn’t live in a house – at least to what society would deem a “home”. His abode was carved out from natures best minerals and soil produced by Idaho’s finest – he built a cave. In fact, he carved out many caves and rented them as a means for other people to live. He never worked for anyone, just himself; yet others were still benefited from having known him, either as a friend, as a consumer of his self-made goods and or services as a unique proprietor. He was a celebrity, written about in books. He even turned down invitations to appear on the Jay Leno show and was well known and respected among the locals. While he was not a churchgoer, he remained faithful and kept a bible in hand frequently. And, he was one of America’s soldiers having served in the Army during WWII in the Pacific and served out his time, only to return to his “home”. While many were concerned with his health, well being and way of living, he was removed from his lifestyle by a close friend and put in a “care center” at the age of 93. But he would not conform to modern living and actually left the facility on foot only to hitchhike his way back to his caves. Given many nicknames, he was best known as Dugout Dick. He was considered one of Idaho’s last legendary loners.
Now, here is a man, who looked like a true prospector and lived like one too. After reading the brief story about him, I felt a warmth surge my insides and a deep respect for him surfaced with awe and amazement. So many people could learn from his experiences and means of living. He was a determined soul who was creative, independent, enlightening, and obviously made an impact on others; and I bet he was as stubborn as a mule! He sadly passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2010.
Do you have a lot of friends, neighbors and contacts? How much do you really know about them and how can their life experiences enlighten you? Definitely something to think about over this weekend! Enjoy your Saturday and let your Go-Go Juice strengthen your relations! Have a fantastic weekend and we shall chat again on Monday.
Dedicated to the Memory of
Richard Zimmerman
(Dugout Dick)
1916 - 2010
Read His Story
Click Here
Friday, April 23, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Celebrating "GREEN" Juice!
Good day to you! My Go-Go Juice is glowing green this morning! No – I did not leave it in the microwave too long and no, I didn’t add any funky preservatives either. In fact, I went almost a full day without using my computer yesterday, plus our family turned off the boob tube for five hours (a big challenge with the kids, lol), the microwave was unplugged with a sign posted (not for use all day) on the front and finally, we went through all our plastics, cans and glass and recycled them instead of throwing them in the trash. Yesterday was officially Earth Day and is celebrated nationally every year. But if enough of us celebrated it daily, can you imagine how we would impact our environment? I know a lot of people (not just Tree Huggers) contribute to a more improved “planet earth”. In today’s modern lifestyle, it is too easy to forget or get complacent with our surroundings. In the hotels I’ve worked at, I’ve always encouraged a “green system” whereas both staff and guests are encouraged to recycle, purchase recycled paper for administration, recycle ink toners, use environment friendly chemicals to clean with and so on. Did you know that Green Hotels are on the rise? I counted over 450 “green hotels” on the Green Hotel Association web site. What makes a hotel “green”? Definitely, not the paint. Owners actually pay a lot of money to convert their property into an environmentally safe property. When your hotel is considered “green” this means that all chemicals used to clean anywhere within the hotel is Eco-friendly, including chemicals used to wash dishes and such in the restaurant. They use low-flow toilets, shower heads and special valves throughout the property. Properties have been known to save two million gallons of water in a year for being water conscience. Additionally, housekeeping encourages guests to re-use towels and linens until it’s necessary to change – reducing water usage with washing. Maintenance uses special paint for all the interiors and exteriors of the building, as well as other material or products used to fix things are Eco-friendly. Visit their website for more information by clicking HERE.
As I explored the internet, I found a lot of neat events around the nation that honored Mother Earth. Check out a few of the places I visited; you’ll find interesting data, information and ideas to help contribute to a “greener planet” by visiting these websites:
Planet Green (A Discovery Company)
Planet Earth Celebration
Planet Earth(For Kids)
Planet Pals (For Kids)
Planet Earth Facts (Buzzle.com)
Facts and Info (Planets and Solar System)
Solar System Exploration (NASA)
Pretty cool, huh?! So, don’t wait till next year to celebrate – do your part and recycle, check the labels of what you buy, turn off your appliances and give them a day of rest, pick a day to shut off your computer and go read a book – or visit a friend – there’s lots of things we can do together to take care of “mother”. And yes, I encourage you to go hug a tree. Be good to yourself and to others and be sure to drink up your Go-Go Juice! Have a great day!
As I explored the internet, I found a lot of neat events around the nation that honored Mother Earth. Check out a few of the places I visited; you’ll find interesting data, information and ideas to help contribute to a “greener planet” by visiting these websites:
Planet Green (A Discovery Company)
Planet Earth Celebration
Planet Earth(For Kids)
Planet Pals (For Kids)
Planet Earth Facts (Buzzle.com)
Facts and Info (Planets and Solar System)
Solar System Exploration (NASA)
Pretty cool, huh?! So, don’t wait till next year to celebrate – do your part and recycle, check the labels of what you buy, turn off your appliances and give them a day of rest, pick a day to shut off your computer and go read a book – or visit a friend – there’s lots of things we can do together to take care of “mother”. And yes, I encourage you to go hug a tree. Be good to yourself and to others and be sure to drink up your Go-Go Juice! Have a great day!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Drug Alert! Texting Available Without a Prescription!
Good Afternoon – How are my Go-Go Juice buddies done? Well, it’s the hump of the week and I bet many of you are already planning your social events for this up coming weekend. You know, we’re all a bunch of social butterflies – even the guys. I know many guys reading this would nod their head in disbelief that they’re anything like their female counterparts who love to gossip, be nosy and set play-dates with kids and spouses. Yes, we female species do like the attention, whether we’re getting it or giving it, but you guys are just the same. Oh- you may not gawk or yap senselessly for hours on end like us, but you like to “hang” with your buds – even in silence if even to just watch a sports game together, or shoot the breeze over a couple brewskies , or play a cut throat card game…but it’s socializing, nonetheless. We all socialize – young and old. But what if socializing gets to be an addiction? How can that be bad? Well, it seems there’s one form of socializing that has doctor’s raising their eyebrows – its texting!
Well – I’m a parent and I can say with confidence, I saw that one coming! If you’re a parent and you have teenagers, how often do you see your kids’ texting? All the time, I bet! I have one cell phone and my daughter hogs it when she comes home from school. In fact, she sleeps with it. And, if I have to run to the store, I keep my phone on me for obvious reasons, but she insists on joining my errands so she can continue her muse with texting. CNN ran a piece to raise the question to phone addiction. According to their report, experts say that phones are becoming an addiction to a lot more people than we may realize. When a 15 year old quotes that they go to bed with phone, wake up with phone and interrupt their sleep to text, there is no doubt an identifiable problem. According to the article, “Studies have shown that texting and the instant gratification of getting a text back floods the brain’s pleasure center with the mood enhancing dopamine. Neuro-imaging studies have shown that those kids who are texting have the same area of the brain light up as an addict using heroin,” as quoted by Dr Michael Seyffert. Is this limited to kids? Nope. Adults who also spend more time texting their buddies have the same experience. I know when I take the phone away from my daughter; she gets moody, depressed and full of anxiety while waiting for her next “dose” of texting.
I think back to the day before cell phones. We always had to find a “payphone” and always carry change to use it. When was the last time you saw a payphone? Heck, their obsolete now. The cell phone replaced the need and increased our productivity, ability to raise communications, but the addition of the text? What’s the point? To silently send messages to someone who might be in a meeting where the phone can’t ring? Oh – for heaven’s sake. What’s the deal with instant gratification anyway? Why aren’t we happy with just fast? There’s always some example out there that demonstrates we need it faster than fast. Hence texting – in our haste to raise communications by speed and time, we’ve created a monster. Do I dare snip the cord to my daughters’ dependency on the phone and “deal” with her withdrawals? I don’t know – what would you do? Are you a possible text junky? Well, it sounds like a debate we could have over time, but I have to admit, there are worst vices you could have. So, go break a knuckle and text your heart away. And, maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea to text your buddy to invite them to a get-together that would allow you both to put the phone down, even for a few hours of rest. Have a great evening and drink plenty of Go-Go Juice!
Well – I’m a parent and I can say with confidence, I saw that one coming! If you’re a parent and you have teenagers, how often do you see your kids’ texting? All the time, I bet! I have one cell phone and my daughter hogs it when she comes home from school. In fact, she sleeps with it. And, if I have to run to the store, I keep my phone on me for obvious reasons, but she insists on joining my errands so she can continue her muse with texting. CNN ran a piece to raise the question to phone addiction. According to their report, experts say that phones are becoming an addiction to a lot more people than we may realize. When a 15 year old quotes that they go to bed with phone, wake up with phone and interrupt their sleep to text, there is no doubt an identifiable problem. According to the article, “Studies have shown that texting and the instant gratification of getting a text back floods the brain’s pleasure center with the mood enhancing dopamine. Neuro-imaging studies have shown that those kids who are texting have the same area of the brain light up as an addict using heroin,” as quoted by Dr Michael Seyffert. Is this limited to kids? Nope. Adults who also spend more time texting their buddies have the same experience. I know when I take the phone away from my daughter; she gets moody, depressed and full of anxiety while waiting for her next “dose” of texting.
I think back to the day before cell phones. We always had to find a “payphone” and always carry change to use it. When was the last time you saw a payphone? Heck, their obsolete now. The cell phone replaced the need and increased our productivity, ability to raise communications, but the addition of the text? What’s the point? To silently send messages to someone who might be in a meeting where the phone can’t ring? Oh – for heaven’s sake. What’s the deal with instant gratification anyway? Why aren’t we happy with just fast? There’s always some example out there that demonstrates we need it faster than fast. Hence texting – in our haste to raise communications by speed and time, we’ve created a monster. Do I dare snip the cord to my daughters’ dependency on the phone and “deal” with her withdrawals? I don’t know – what would you do? Are you a possible text junky? Well, it sounds like a debate we could have over time, but I have to admit, there are worst vices you could have. So, go break a knuckle and text your heart away. And, maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea to text your buddy to invite them to a get-together that would allow you both to put the phone down, even for a few hours of rest. Have a great evening and drink plenty of Go-Go Juice!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - America: “Give me your tired, your poor, and Your Stranded!”
Good Morning to you and how does your Go-Go Juice taste today? Mine is hot, smooth and delicious! And, I am absolutely jubilant about recent news to hear so many stories around our country of how our own neighbors, people and businesses are opening their homes, pocket books and doors to our European friends from the unbelievable volcanic ash that continues to linger over the European skies preventing people from going home. Can you imagine being left stranded, not for hours, but for days in a foreign land? How many of us, even when we travel across the seas for a few days on a vacation, reach the end and just can’t wait to get home? Nothing compares to sleeping in our own beds, using our own bathrooms, getting back into our own routines, catching up with our neighbors to hear the latest news on some neighborhood gossip and yes, some even pleasure from the thought of going back to work (or school). But what happens to us when we can’t? You begin to lose touch of what to do, where to go and how to pay for it, especially as budgets for the trip are usually expended or waning from the travels. Well, reports are coming in from all corners of the United States that our European visitors are getting a big dose of American Hospitality! How cool is that? Families, individuals and groups are being offered special hotel discounts, free admission into theme parks (to give them something to do), some folks are offering their own homes even if just to meet and spend some time with a foreign couple or family. Everyone here in the US is pitching in to help our stranded visitors and I am so proud and humbled. If you read my Facebook Tag Line, it reads, “I absolutely love people’s spirit!” This is what I’m talking about! I recently wrote and posted about motivation that comes from deep inside ones soul – here’s another example. So, for today, I would love for you to fill up your cup of Go-Go Juice and read the following article by the Associated Press “In US, welcome mat goes out for stranded travelers”, then take a few moments to see how you or your company can reach out to those who are still stuck at airports or who have posted “want ads” in newspapers looking for help – see what you too, can do to pitch in. Drink lots of Go-Go Juice to keep your senses about. Have a very thankful and joyous day!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Where Do You Travel?
Well, good morning sleepy head. Guess what? It’s Monday – another week that lies ahead. Rushing kids off to school, fighting the morning rush traffic, catching up on all the emails that flooded you over the weekend, making the morning staff meeting, answering a phone that won’t stop ringing and making the next set of deadlines to meet the goals you set last week. I know you keep your Go-Go Juice nearby – if anything, it’s a Monday requirement to get back on the ball (or horse, or wagon, or whatever it is you ride). Maybe it’s a Harley – maybe you’re lucky enough to wish your colleagues well, while you jam off for a week of total bliss, rumming your engine with wind blowing in your hair at 65mph as you head off to parts unknown. Have you ever given it much thought to the amount of traveling we do in our lives? Whether for business or pleasure, we are people who are always on the go. But to where? I’ve got some ideas for both corporate and leisure experiences.
If you’re having to be out of town on business, to make meetings and just need a room, (of course, much depends on your expense account and what your company will pay), but great corporate hotels designed with corporate settings, convenience and usually found nestled among the inner city lining of hustle and bustle includes my favorites Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, and the Fairfield Inn. Now, if you’re with a corporate group and need conference space where you do not have to meet other businesses in downtown areas, you have a lot of neat choices. I love the resort atmosphere – everyone gets to get away from the usual and be in more inviting locations. Conference destinations are amazing! Check out Aspen Meadows Resort to have conferences at the Aspen Institute (my favorite, ok I’m biased!) located in beautiful Aspen, Colorado, The Inverness Hotel of Denver, CO, the Hamilton Park Hotel and Conference Center, located in Florham Park NJ, the Skamania Lodge in Portland, OR, Sun River Resort in Sunriver OR, the Miramonte Resort and Spa in Palm Springs CA and Wild Dunes Resort in Charleston SC are to name a few.
If you’re looking for leisure with a family theme there’s plenty of fun, sun and water for people of all ages at these fine hotels: Kalahari Resorts located in three locations Ohio, VA, and Wisconsin Dells, there’s Circus-Circus Hotels in Las Vegas NV, Six Flags Great Escape in Lake George NY, CoCo Key Water Resort in Waterbury CT, Arizona Grand Resort located in Phoenix AZ, and Grizzly Jacks Grand Bear Resort in Utica IL are also just a few.
I can recommend hundreds of places and types of hotels with environments where the list goes on – ok, well, that’s because I’ve been in this business for over twenty years and I’ve traveled from coast to coast and have walked quite a number of these places myself. Do you have a specific interest or need? Maybe I can help you! Email me and I will step up to bat to put your Harley, SUV or all around Caravan in the right direction. And, let me tell you, all these places offer some of the most amazing flavors of Go-Go Juice you could ever imagine!
Well, if you’re not heading off for fun whether business or pleasure and you’re stuck at work all week, make it the best you can, cause in the end when you accomplish your goals and everyone is patting you on the back for a job well done, you know you’ll be heading off soon for the fun and R&R you’ve been waiting for! Keep up the great work and keep your Go-Go Juice brewing! Have a great Monday and week ahead.
If you’re having to be out of town on business, to make meetings and just need a room, (of course, much depends on your expense account and what your company will pay), but great corporate hotels designed with corporate settings, convenience and usually found nestled among the inner city lining of hustle and bustle includes my favorites Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, and the Fairfield Inn. Now, if you’re with a corporate group and need conference space where you do not have to meet other businesses in downtown areas, you have a lot of neat choices. I love the resort atmosphere – everyone gets to get away from the usual and be in more inviting locations. Conference destinations are amazing! Check out Aspen Meadows Resort to have conferences at the Aspen Institute (my favorite, ok I’m biased!) located in beautiful Aspen, Colorado, The Inverness Hotel of Denver, CO, the Hamilton Park Hotel and Conference Center, located in Florham Park NJ, the Skamania Lodge in Portland, OR, Sun River Resort in Sunriver OR, the Miramonte Resort and Spa in Palm Springs CA and Wild Dunes Resort in Charleston SC are to name a few.
If you’re looking for leisure with a family theme there’s plenty of fun, sun and water for people of all ages at these fine hotels: Kalahari Resorts located in three locations Ohio, VA, and Wisconsin Dells, there’s Circus-Circus Hotels in Las Vegas NV, Six Flags Great Escape in Lake George NY, CoCo Key Water Resort in Waterbury CT, Arizona Grand Resort located in Phoenix AZ, and Grizzly Jacks Grand Bear Resort in Utica IL are also just a few.
I can recommend hundreds of places and types of hotels with environments where the list goes on – ok, well, that’s because I’ve been in this business for over twenty years and I’ve traveled from coast to coast and have walked quite a number of these places myself. Do you have a specific interest or need? Maybe I can help you! Email me and I will step up to bat to put your Harley, SUV or all around Caravan in the right direction. And, let me tell you, all these places offer some of the most amazing flavors of Go-Go Juice you could ever imagine!
Well, if you’re not heading off for fun whether business or pleasure and you’re stuck at work all week, make it the best you can, cause in the end when you accomplish your goals and everyone is patting you on the back for a job well done, you know you’ll be heading off soon for the fun and R&R you’ve been waiting for! Keep up the great work and keep your Go-Go Juice brewing! Have a great Monday and week ahead.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Motivation is Always Deep Within!
Good Chillin’ Day to you! Yes, my Go-Go Juice is still steaming, but not figuratively, I mean to say I’m keeping it hot – It’s after 3 o’clock in the afternoon for heaven’s sake and I just dawned on two pairs of socks. Where did our warm weather go? So, how did your week go this last week? I’m thrilled it’s Saturday.
You know, because I’m a LinkedIn member, I get involved with a number of discussion groups. There’s a lot of enlightening questions out there in the executive world and you read answers that you may not have ever thought of. One question came up this week that I wanted to share both question and answer. The question was: “Do you have a favorite motivational saying or story that you use?” posted by Erika Hanson Brown. Friends close to me on Facebook will tell you often I post motivational quotes from many leaders of our history as I believe in motivating others and sharing thought provoking ideas. However, as I contemplated the question, it wasn’t the “saying” part of her question that struck me, it was the “story” part. I do have a motivational story to share. Here’s my answer:
There’s nothing more motivating than to have a perfectly good stranger suddenly pop out of nowhere to save a person’s life, succeed, then disappear without any recognition, any acknowledgment, or for that matter, without even allowing a ‘Thank You’ to elevate from the incident. Like an angel from the heaven’s such a person entered our life one very sad evening; someone whose name we’ll never know, someone’s whose face we never saw; someone who will never know the tremendous impact they had on our lives, even to today.
The night was uncommonly cold, rainy and very dark. It was Veteran’s Day Weekend – November 11, 1994. At approximately 6:45pm, an auto/pedestrian accident occurred. The driver had been drinking. Just shy of mauling over three family members at once, one little body was thrown over 52 feet through the air, coming to rest on his side. Beyond the chaos, the nightmare, the extreme horror and shock, an angel appeared out of nowhere to perform mouth to mouth resuscitation on his little body. Hundreds of blue and red lights formed almost immediately lighting up the entire area from the darkness. The angel had breathed life back into his little body allowing the medics to give him a further chance at life. The angel disappeared and was never seen or heard from again. Later that night, the little body’s brain had suffered too much from internal swelling and was encouraged to find the light where in heaven he would remain in good hands, where we would meet again, someday. At 12:15am, he was gone. But he was given that one chance in that one defining moment of time, where one person gave of themselves without seeking anything in return. Sixteen years later, we still reflect with awe and amazement and find ways to do the same for others. The little body was my son. He was just six years old. That kind of motivation isn’t found in books, learned or taught. It’s found deep within one’s soul ready to spark to touch the lives of others at any given moment. To the angel, we still thank you! To our son – we still miss you. Until we meet again.
Dedicated to the memory of Dirk Andrew Meyers, born August 25, 1988 – died November 12, 1994.
The motivation is always within you. Find it, use it and share it. Have an amazing great day!
You know, because I’m a LinkedIn member, I get involved with a number of discussion groups. There’s a lot of enlightening questions out there in the executive world and you read answers that you may not have ever thought of. One question came up this week that I wanted to share both question and answer. The question was: “Do you have a favorite motivational saying or story that you use?” posted by Erika Hanson Brown. Friends close to me on Facebook will tell you often I post motivational quotes from many leaders of our history as I believe in motivating others and sharing thought provoking ideas. However, as I contemplated the question, it wasn’t the “saying” part of her question that struck me, it was the “story” part. I do have a motivational story to share. Here’s my answer:
There’s nothing more motivating than to have a perfectly good stranger suddenly pop out of nowhere to save a person’s life, succeed, then disappear without any recognition, any acknowledgment, or for that matter, without even allowing a ‘Thank You’ to elevate from the incident. Like an angel from the heaven’s such a person entered our life one very sad evening; someone whose name we’ll never know, someone’s whose face we never saw; someone who will never know the tremendous impact they had on our lives, even to today.
The night was uncommonly cold, rainy and very dark. It was Veteran’s Day Weekend – November 11, 1994. At approximately 6:45pm, an auto/pedestrian accident occurred. The driver had been drinking. Just shy of mauling over three family members at once, one little body was thrown over 52 feet through the air, coming to rest on his side. Beyond the chaos, the nightmare, the extreme horror and shock, an angel appeared out of nowhere to perform mouth to mouth resuscitation on his little body. Hundreds of blue and red lights formed almost immediately lighting up the entire area from the darkness. The angel had breathed life back into his little body allowing the medics to give him a further chance at life. The angel disappeared and was never seen or heard from again. Later that night, the little body’s brain had suffered too much from internal swelling and was encouraged to find the light where in heaven he would remain in good hands, where we would meet again, someday. At 12:15am, he was gone. But he was given that one chance in that one defining moment of time, where one person gave of themselves without seeking anything in return. Sixteen years later, we still reflect with awe and amazement and find ways to do the same for others. The little body was my son. He was just six years old. That kind of motivation isn’t found in books, learned or taught. It’s found deep within one’s soul ready to spark to touch the lives of others at any given moment. To the angel, we still thank you! To our son – we still miss you. Until we meet again.
Dedicated to the memory of Dirk Andrew Meyers, born August 25, 1988 – died November 12, 1994.
The motivation is always within you. Find it, use it and share it. Have an amazing great day!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - What do the Contents of Your Juice Say About You?
Golden rays are just peaking over the roof tops, the skies are a grayish tint and in the background I hear the soft purring of my kitty cat who’s now nudging me for attention and sniffing the contents of my Go-Go Juice. Good morning! What is the content of your Go-Go Juice this morning? Can the contents of our Go-Go Juice contribute to our personality traits? You know, there are tons of personalities out there, but I don’t dare list them all – much too boring. However, there’s a few honorable traits to mention:
Type Trendy – One who likes the convenience of a “Quickie Mart”, but enjoys the trademark of Starbucks and their fancy Frappuccinos, Vivanno Smoothies, Tall Lattes, Iced Caffe’ Lattes, and variety of Espressos and is a person who likes to impress others and can blend into society to show that you too, can still afford a trendy beverage.
Type Health Conscience – One who is always on the go, but doesn’t have time to eat would rather enjoy making their own blended creation of juice, eggs and fresh fruit avoiding the caffeine while adding a good dose of vitamins to their daily regimen who can demonstrate their will to ensure lower cholesterol, need for protein and conscientiously be powered up for the day.
Type English Descent – A mild mannered individual would enjoy the sweet delicate aroma and taste of tea leaves who prefers to take the time to relax and steep a tea bag, while applying the art of condiments rather it be honey, sugar cubes, the squeeze of a lemon and calmly stir.
Type Coffee Bean Fanatic – A person who is always on the go, but get’s little rest and prefers the hot steamy Cup o’ Joe whether straight up black or sweetened with cream and sugar to keep their senses alert.
Type Youth is Forever – An individual who keeps a good bottle of soda nearby at all times – it’s cold, refreshing, and the bubbling carbonates tickle the throat giving the opportunity for a good belch every now and then.
Type Hydrated is Better – An individual who is very self conscience in staying well hydrated or maybe to ensure the loss of unwanted calories will maintain an over-sized goblet of water at all times giving themselves a treat with a twist of lemon or lime.
Whatever is the content of your Go-Go Juice, no doubt you have a unique personality and my above description is purely for fun thought this morning. They do say though, we are what we eat; the same must apply to what we drink. Off with ya’ now. You and I have a day ahead of ourselves and It’s FRIDAY! Make it the best day of the week so you can relax and enjoy your successes over the weekend!
Type Trendy – One who likes the convenience of a “Quickie Mart”, but enjoys the trademark of Starbucks and their fancy Frappuccinos, Vivanno Smoothies, Tall Lattes, Iced Caffe’ Lattes, and variety of Espressos and is a person who likes to impress others and can blend into society to show that you too, can still afford a trendy beverage.
Type Health Conscience – One who is always on the go, but doesn’t have time to eat would rather enjoy making their own blended creation of juice, eggs and fresh fruit avoiding the caffeine while adding a good dose of vitamins to their daily regimen who can demonstrate their will to ensure lower cholesterol, need for protein and conscientiously be powered up for the day.
Type English Descent – A mild mannered individual would enjoy the sweet delicate aroma and taste of tea leaves who prefers to take the time to relax and steep a tea bag, while applying the art of condiments rather it be honey, sugar cubes, the squeeze of a lemon and calmly stir.
Type Coffee Bean Fanatic – A person who is always on the go, but get’s little rest and prefers the hot steamy Cup o’ Joe whether straight up black or sweetened with cream and sugar to keep their senses alert.
Type Youth is Forever – An individual who keeps a good bottle of soda nearby at all times – it’s cold, refreshing, and the bubbling carbonates tickle the throat giving the opportunity for a good belch every now and then.
Type Hydrated is Better – An individual who is very self conscience in staying well hydrated or maybe to ensure the loss of unwanted calories will maintain an over-sized goblet of water at all times giving themselves a treat with a twist of lemon or lime.
Whatever is the content of your Go-Go Juice, no doubt you have a unique personality and my above description is purely for fun thought this morning. They do say though, we are what we eat; the same must apply to what we drink. Off with ya’ now. You and I have a day ahead of ourselves and It’s FRIDAY! Make it the best day of the week so you can relax and enjoy your successes over the weekend!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Unemployment Rises as America Rebounds? You Be the Judge...
Good morning to all my readers. Take a good sip of your Go-Go Juice – I read two conflicting articles this morning about how America is on the rebound yet the unemployment significantly jumped up with new jobless claims. Yahoo posted an article by Newsweek how cover story author, Daniel Gross points out the factors to show the upward climb. His facts point to how the U.S. economy has gone from shrinking at a 6.4 percent annual rate in the first quarter of 2009 to growing at a rate of 5.9 percent at the end of the year; how the Dow Jones Industrial Average rebounded by 70% off the bottom; how 162,000 jobs were created in March; and how productivity rose by 5.8% in the fourth quarter of 2009 when compared to the 4Q in 2008. Now if you look at Associated Press who posted an article titled Jobless Claims Rise for a Second Straight Week by Jeannine Aversa stating that the new jobless claims summed up to a combined 42,000 new requests in the first two weeks (I’m guessing in March). The number of people continuing to draw unemployment benefits moved higher. They rose to 4.64 million, from 4.57 million. No doubt parts of our economy is seeing a small rebound, but until the unemployed get back into jobs, the benefits of unemployment will not greatly impact the economy as benefits are barely enough to cover basic living costs, let alone ring the cash registers of various businesses. And, while there is a rise in new unemployment claims, there are thousands if not millions of people coming off the unemployment from reaching the end of their extensions, who still don’t have jobs. Those who aren’t drawing a paycheck, who have lost their unemployment, will only have their local non-profit organizations to turn to for financial help in maintaining basic living costs. But, those types of agencies have suffered as well from this economy with new reports of budget cuts and used up grants. So, when the help stops, how is that going to affect our economy? I’ll tell you – it’s going to hurt, not encourage. I understand that media, whether in TV news or magazines hope to find some economist to bring “hope” to our ongoing suffrage, however, I hope it doesn’t compromise the realities that individuals and families do have a very long road to pave with hard work and sweat to find a means to getting employed. Well, for me, I’m adding an extra dose to my Go-Go Juice as I turn up the energy to drive that long road. So my friends keep your eyes peeled with hands on the wheel. Good luck in your endeavors and keep that Go-Go Juice flowing! Have a great day.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - Don't Let Rejection Deject You!
Another day, another phone call, meeting, connection, errand, email, kiss, hug, munchie, and of course another cup of Go-Go Juice. Hello! Went off to meet, greet, discover and acquire...it’s an everyday task. You know, meeting, greeting and discovering are a piece of cake! It’s the acquiring that’s the hardest to accomplish. I know when people go out into the field to sell a product or for whatever project, obtain support, it is often they run into "No's". What about job hunting - a cold call sale to inquire about a specific opening or need also often results in a "No". I've had a few people talk to me about how getting that "No" is a big downer, is dis-motivating and how they hate getting rejected. When rejection becomes the norm, one has to ask why then, does depression become an issue. The Merriam Webster Dictionary Online states that rejection is defined as 1a) to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose or use. Psychology teaches us that rejection can be a contributing factor to depression as nobody likes to be rejected. As kids, we hated to be told no when we wanted a cookie or when we wanted to wear our bathing suits out in the snow, or to play outside after dark. As adults, we get rejected in relationships, friendships, when trying to sell a product, or simply when we ask the boss for a special day off and told, “No”. I think no matter what the case, we hate being told, “No”. It takes away desire, a need, lowers expectations, stops us in our tracks and makes us think we can’t move forward. On the other hand, rejection is actually an immune response. Honestly, we get rejected on a daily basis, so hence, we become immune to the word and move on. The life of a sales person is full of rejection. Consumers tell sales people frequently, “Hey, it’s nothing personal, we just aren’t interested” or “Sorry, and I’m not buying at this time”. Rejection is just that, a “no”. It’s truly an opportunity to find a “yes”. A good sales person will always expect a “no” and hopefully maneuver around the “no” until a more level ground is discovered and a “yes” can be achieved. I have to agree though; it’s a lot easier said than done, sometimes. But, you know, my father taught me a valuable lesson growing up – to always ask when you don’t know the answer. The worse you’ll get is a “No”. The world does not come to an end and with a “no” you can actually identify how to possibly make it a “yes” for understanding the reason behind the “no”. Now, my dad was no psychologist – he was a salesman and an excellent one at that! Many people who know me wonder how it is I’m able to stay so chipper or positive minded. For one, my Go-Go Juice keeps me on my toes and when I get told “no” I think of my dad. So, if you’re having a tough week this week with rejection, remind yourself that with each rejection is another opportunity. Study the reason behind it and give it another try. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. Keep up the great work, go around the rejections, and for heaven’s sake, keep drinking your Go-Go Juice! Chow!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - A Thrilling Thriller, The Human Centipede Coming to Your Home Town!
Oh – OK – it’s now 7PM – my Go-Go Juice is still flowing! Long day for a Tuesday. How did your day go? Well, I have some cool and exciting news to share. One of my family members has been drinking a lot of Go-Go Juice over the years. She’s kinda’ like my niece as we’re a number of years apart, but in reality, she’s a cousin of mine who has been following her dream in acting, and recently starred in a new film that has many people stirring – the film is titled “The Human Centipede”. The actress I speak of is Ashley Williams. And yes, I can say with confidence that I held this little starlet as a baby and watched her and her siblings grow up from afar! And, while I could probably make her cheeks glow a scarlet red from all the “cutsie” things she did as a kid, or the pictures I’ve seen, now is the time to humbly present her amazing talent as she and her team of actors and actresses prepare for the unveiling of this controversial, compelling thriller. Having seen her in action, makes me feel…..so old! But so proud! Where has the time gone? And where did she go from being cutsie to a full blown woman competing in a challenging industry where it’s hard enough to get a job as a walking celery stick for a commercial, let alone a main character in a big screen blockbuster! You’ve got to watch the trailer. I have to admit, I’m a movie buff and I love horror movies – although, I’m not into the “hack-n-slash” type that displays just gore with no story, no history, no end – no point. But, when it involves a good plot, great suspense and even a weird concept, I’ll give it a go and am usually well satisfied. This happens to be one of those! While I have not yet seen the film, I have seen the trailer – pretty cool. I’ve attached the link to the title above so please check it out! Opening night will be April 30th in New York City and then Nationwide folks, MAY 7th! Do see it!
And Ashley, if you read this – I get an autographed poster for Christmas, right? Keep your Go-Go Juice filled to the brim 'lil cuz! And for everyone else – dream big. As I’ve said before, never say never, can’t is a B.A.D. word and the world is your oyster. Have a great night.
And Ashley, if you read this – I get an autographed poster for Christmas, right? Keep your Go-Go Juice filled to the brim 'lil cuz! And for everyone else – dream big. As I’ve said before, never say never, can’t is a B.A.D. word and the world is your oyster. Have a great night.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - George Washington is the Face of Motivation?
Good Monday Morning to you! How’s your Go-Go Juice brewing? Mine’s steaming with ideas from a recent article I read about bribing kids to do well in school. You know I’ve talked a lot about Cassy and her upcoming successes as she graduates this year. Her grades are up and she’s thrilled to be taking on the new challenges of freedom, new studies and getting employed…all the next steps to becoming an adult who can live on their own. But, what about those students who don’t do so well?
Teachers, psychologists, counselors and parents all discuss the ongoing topic of what to do with your student when he/she is failing or close to it. The contributing factors to a student’s success or failure comes with living environments, study habits, personal challenges (like ADD or ADHD or other mental complexity), type of friends he/she associates with and parental involvement. I have a child who struggles – my son. He’s a typical boy age 14 and while he’s into mischief time to time, overall, he’s a pretty good kid for the most part. His interest in school is nil. Not the social part, the study part. He, like most young boys would rather spend time with friends, play and just hang. OK – he’s a teenager with typical desires and level’s of interest. But here’s the snag…his grades suffer (although he’s put a teeny-bit of effort into pulling them up) and he constantly shows his dismay for the way teachers teach, how the subjects are not interesting, constantly complains on how long it takes to get homework done (I must agree on average, it takes 5 hours a night based on his sister’s studies), and he’s always rebelling against authority (he hates being told what to do). Sounds normal? Well, when the attitude becomes compelling, we start dealing with new issues whereas the attitude spreads to other areas of individual responsibilities and I as a mom, get caught up into an explosive debate with my son where we butt heads and play tug-o-war over who controls what. While I have him seeing a counselor to help identify any key areas that could otherwise help him out of his “rut”, I discovered this article published online by Time Magazine and reported by Amanda Ripley. See Article for reference: http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20100409/us_time/08599197858900
The article is titled, “Should Kids Be Bribed to do Well in School?” For the most part, I think all parents dangle carrots in front of their kids to help motivate their study habits or improve their grades. But I had never considered paying per grade, type of behavior or for that matter for reading. The detailed report was highly comprehensive and focused on a Harvard Economist name Roland Fryer Jr. who was a deadbeat kid himself doing all the “bad” things when young, facing as much challenges as a kid from inner city issues, but who took the bull by the horns after years of finding himself one who could do better. Today, Mr. Frey is trying to help students find their way and payment seems to be the answer.
He made an interesting statement, “most adults work primarily for money, and in a curious way, we seem to be holding kids to a higher standard than we hold ourselves.” His study drew extreme controversial comments – kids should learn and get improved through the love of learning. The biggest argument from his studies was that while kids get paid to do homework, change behaviors and get certain grades, once the incentive is stopped, so does their “learning”. On the contrary, how they paid students in this huge experiment showed varying and interesting results. While students were paid to get good grades and did, it did not seem to affect them after the experiment at the end of the year or the year to follow showing a cause that there was truly no long term effect from the payments. However, students who were paid to “read” actually improved grades and the effects showed a year later where the same students did better from their prior “reading”.
I know that my son is highly motivated by money. He wishes badly to get a job so he can have some freedom of his own – no doubt some of that is also control over what he can do. Let’s face it, it sucks to be a teenager who can’t really go anywhere or do anything without having a few bucks to spend. As quoted from the article, one teenager who was an eighth grader named Chyna, apparently a child with lack of interest herself in maintaining her own behavior and following school rules, said when she got checks to wear her uniform properly and do well in school, she tried very hard to do better, wear her uniform and not attack other girls in school, because she knew she was getting paid. Yet, the interviewer questioned her, “about how the psychologists' argument that she should work hard for the love of learning, not for short-term rewards.” Her honest response? She looked the interviewer dead in the eye, "We're kids. Let's be realistic."
My son would have said the same thing. I’m telling you, it’s not my influence – I was for the most part a straight “A” student – a book worm and a “Goody-Too-Shoo” growing up. Where my son gets his ideas I have no clue. But I’ve been enlightened and now, don’t feel so alone. While I’m not putting my endorsement on the idea just yet, it is no doubt, food for thought, or in this case, food for dollars. I will definitely need a few more cups of Go-Go Juice to decide on this one.
Motivation is still Motivation no matter how we look at it. I hope you find your motivation for the week – it is after all Monday. Have a great day!
Teachers, psychologists, counselors and parents all discuss the ongoing topic of what to do with your student when he/she is failing or close to it. The contributing factors to a student’s success or failure comes with living environments, study habits, personal challenges (like ADD or ADHD or other mental complexity), type of friends he/she associates with and parental involvement. I have a child who struggles – my son. He’s a typical boy age 14 and while he’s into mischief time to time, overall, he’s a pretty good kid for the most part. His interest in school is nil. Not the social part, the study part. He, like most young boys would rather spend time with friends, play and just hang. OK – he’s a teenager with typical desires and level’s of interest. But here’s the snag…his grades suffer (although he’s put a teeny-bit of effort into pulling them up) and he constantly shows his dismay for the way teachers teach, how the subjects are not interesting, constantly complains on how long it takes to get homework done (I must agree on average, it takes 5 hours a night based on his sister’s studies), and he’s always rebelling against authority (he hates being told what to do). Sounds normal? Well, when the attitude becomes compelling, we start dealing with new issues whereas the attitude spreads to other areas of individual responsibilities and I as a mom, get caught up into an explosive debate with my son where we butt heads and play tug-o-war over who controls what. While I have him seeing a counselor to help identify any key areas that could otherwise help him out of his “rut”, I discovered this article published online by Time Magazine and reported by Amanda Ripley. See Article for reference: http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20100409/us_time/08599197858900
The article is titled, “Should Kids Be Bribed to do Well in School?” For the most part, I think all parents dangle carrots in front of their kids to help motivate their study habits or improve their grades. But I had never considered paying per grade, type of behavior or for that matter for reading. The detailed report was highly comprehensive and focused on a Harvard Economist name Roland Fryer Jr. who was a deadbeat kid himself doing all the “bad” things when young, facing as much challenges as a kid from inner city issues, but who took the bull by the horns after years of finding himself one who could do better. Today, Mr. Frey is trying to help students find their way and payment seems to be the answer.
He made an interesting statement, “most adults work primarily for money, and in a curious way, we seem to be holding kids to a higher standard than we hold ourselves.” His study drew extreme controversial comments – kids should learn and get improved through the love of learning. The biggest argument from his studies was that while kids get paid to do homework, change behaviors and get certain grades, once the incentive is stopped, so does their “learning”. On the contrary, how they paid students in this huge experiment showed varying and interesting results. While students were paid to get good grades and did, it did not seem to affect them after the experiment at the end of the year or the year to follow showing a cause that there was truly no long term effect from the payments. However, students who were paid to “read” actually improved grades and the effects showed a year later where the same students did better from their prior “reading”.
I know that my son is highly motivated by money. He wishes badly to get a job so he can have some freedom of his own – no doubt some of that is also control over what he can do. Let’s face it, it sucks to be a teenager who can’t really go anywhere or do anything without having a few bucks to spend. As quoted from the article, one teenager who was an eighth grader named Chyna, apparently a child with lack of interest herself in maintaining her own behavior and following school rules, said when she got checks to wear her uniform properly and do well in school, she tried very hard to do better, wear her uniform and not attack other girls in school, because she knew she was getting paid. Yet, the interviewer questioned her, “about how the psychologists' argument that she should work hard for the love of learning, not for short-term rewards.” Her honest response? She looked the interviewer dead in the eye, "We're kids. Let's be realistic."
My son would have said the same thing. I’m telling you, it’s not my influence – I was for the most part a straight “A” student – a book worm and a “Goody-Too-Shoo” growing up. Where my son gets his ideas I have no clue. But I’ve been enlightened and now, don’t feel so alone. While I’m not putting my endorsement on the idea just yet, it is no doubt, food for thought, or in this case, food for dollars. I will definitely need a few more cups of Go-Go Juice to decide on this one.
Motivation is still Motivation no matter how we look at it. I hope you find your motivation for the week – it is after all Monday. Have a great day!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Time For Go-Go Juice! - How Much Coffee is Too Much?
“Have faith in your dreams and someday your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.”
- Cinderella, Disney 1950
Well, I’m pooped. I know – it’s Sunday, not Saturday. I totally skipped yesterday. Here’s why…Did you have your Go-Go Juice yesterday? I didn’t. Racing out yesterday morning to whisk my daughter out the door to acquire her prom dress, I left my Go-Go Juice behind. What an atrocity! How neglectful, shameful, careless…how sad. But, we took the bull by the horns anyway. And, now, with the dress and its accessories, Cassy has proudly pranced around to show off how she will be transformed into Cinderella for her upcoming Prom. An all day event that turned successful. Hundreds of young senior girls were out this weekend with the same goals in mind. But of course, it came with compromises – and leaving you alone for a day with no posts was one of them. So hence, with Go-Go Juice in hand this morning, I’m here to say a warm hello and will try not to go another day without the juice! LOL.
Here is some trivia…while I thought I was one of the few psychotic coffee drinkers, I learned something of interest. It appears I’m not alone. Did you know based on data collected ten years ago, (you say, “what the heck, ten years ago? What’s the point?” Well, I couldn’t find anything more current – probably because those who did the test died from over caffeinating themselves), however, back then, there were over 108 million consumers of coffee in the US alone who spent approximately $17 billion dollars on coffee in both retail and food sectors spending approximately $165.00 annually in grounds. Hmmm…I know I spend about $240 yearly when I buy two large canisters monthly at about $9.00 per can, unless it’s on sale (the difference from stats is probably inflation). Now, last night, the History Channel quoted one of our submarine sectors, the USS Kentucky, buys approximately 5,000 pounds a year in coffee grounds currently, averaging about 1 pot of coffee per sailor per day consumed. I’ve never given that any thought before? Can you imagine? I did a little more research. As found online at through Chief of Naval Operations Submarine Warfare Division with a web address of http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/faq.html - I found unless under specific orders, subs go out to sea for weeks at a time but are equipped to store foods and goods for up to 90-days of sail time. Most submarines employ 14 Officers, 18 Petty Officers and approximately 109 enlisted men. Now, the reality is, submarines are designed to attack or defend – so here we have approximately 140 people living in tight quarters, no sunlight, no moonlight, no windows and their only means of seeing the outside world is through a peep hole of a periscope, their bedrooms are 15 square feet of space for sleeping and personal stuff, they get about 6 hours of sleep a day based on assigned work projects that basically contribute to the common goal of maintaining a roving machine that carries ballistic missiles, fleet missiles, and yes, nuclear weapons – and these guys are strung up on a pot of caffeine a day each? Hmmm, maybe it’s not such a good idea. Go-Go Juice here, takes on a whole new meaning. Whew! Join me tomorrow for another week of family, trivia, ideas, employment and whatever else pops up. Enjoy your Sunday!
- Cinderella, Disney 1950
Well, I’m pooped. I know – it’s Sunday, not Saturday. I totally skipped yesterday. Here’s why…Did you have your Go-Go Juice yesterday? I didn’t. Racing out yesterday morning to whisk my daughter out the door to acquire her prom dress, I left my Go-Go Juice behind. What an atrocity! How neglectful, shameful, careless…how sad. But, we took the bull by the horns anyway. And, now, with the dress and its accessories, Cassy has proudly pranced around to show off how she will be transformed into Cinderella for her upcoming Prom. An all day event that turned successful. Hundreds of young senior girls were out this weekend with the same goals in mind. But of course, it came with compromises – and leaving you alone for a day with no posts was one of them. So hence, with Go-Go Juice in hand this morning, I’m here to say a warm hello and will try not to go another day without the juice! LOL.
Here is some trivia…while I thought I was one of the few psychotic coffee drinkers, I learned something of interest. It appears I’m not alone. Did you know based on data collected ten years ago, (you say, “what the heck, ten years ago? What’s the point?” Well, I couldn’t find anything more current – probably because those who did the test died from over caffeinating themselves), however, back then, there were over 108 million consumers of coffee in the US alone who spent approximately $17 billion dollars on coffee in both retail and food sectors spending approximately $165.00 annually in grounds. Hmmm…I know I spend about $240 yearly when I buy two large canisters monthly at about $9.00 per can, unless it’s on sale (the difference from stats is probably inflation). Now, last night, the History Channel quoted one of our submarine sectors, the USS Kentucky, buys approximately 5,000 pounds a year in coffee grounds currently, averaging about 1 pot of coffee per sailor per day consumed. I’ve never given that any thought before? Can you imagine? I did a little more research. As found online at through Chief of Naval Operations Submarine Warfare Division with a web address of http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/faq.html - I found unless under specific orders, subs go out to sea for weeks at a time but are equipped to store foods and goods for up to 90-days of sail time. Most submarines employ 14 Officers, 18 Petty Officers and approximately 109 enlisted men. Now, the reality is, submarines are designed to attack or defend – so here we have approximately 140 people living in tight quarters, no sunlight, no moonlight, no windows and their only means of seeing the outside world is through a peep hole of a periscope, their bedrooms are 15 square feet of space for sleeping and personal stuff, they get about 6 hours of sleep a day based on assigned work projects that basically contribute to the common goal of maintaining a roving machine that carries ballistic missiles, fleet missiles, and yes, nuclear weapons – and these guys are strung up on a pot of caffeine a day each? Hmmm, maybe it’s not such a good idea. Go-Go Juice here, takes on a whole new meaning. Whew! Join me tomorrow for another week of family, trivia, ideas, employment and whatever else pops up. Enjoy your Sunday!
Friday, April 9, 2010
A Moment of Remembrance - To Love Lost in West Virgina...
I am but a loss for words, however compelled to reach out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in West Virginia’s mine explosion. For those who are not aware, the explosion occurred Monday April 5th, at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch Mine, 30 miles south of Charleston, killing approximately 25 people with 4 still missing currently. Today, thanks to the family of 25 year old Josh Napper, (father, son and fiancé) one of the killed miners, went public with a note he’d written a day before the explosion. As quoted from AP news, the note read:
"Dear Mommy and Jenna," Pam Napper recalled. "If anything happens to me, I will be looking down from heaven. If you take care of my baby girl, watch over (her), tell her all the good things about her daddy. She was so cute and funny. She was my little peanut. And Jennifer, I know things have never been the greatest sometimes, but I just want you to know I love you and I care about you."
Most of the mine workers had a sick sense of something wrong with the mine when the company sent them home early that prior Friday of April 2nd having issues with the ventilation systems. However, the issues were obviously not identified fully or resolved.
So many Americans lose their lives in various dangerous job functions, but we know the risks and those who take those risks are amazing people. To our mineworkers, firefighters, law enforcement, drillers, construction workers, manufacturers, automakers, assembly line people, and all those not mentioned who face dangerous obstacles everyday while keeping America going and making a living to boot – we are humbled, we are grateful, we are honored at your drive, tenacity and courage.
To the family and friends of the WV mine disaster, our hearts and prayers are with you. May all your loved ones rest in peace and may all the survivors of those lost, find peace within as well.
"Dear Mommy and Jenna," Pam Napper recalled. "If anything happens to me, I will be looking down from heaven. If you take care of my baby girl, watch over (her), tell her all the good things about her daddy. She was so cute and funny. She was my little peanut. And Jennifer, I know things have never been the greatest sometimes, but I just want you to know I love you and I care about you."
Most of the mine workers had a sick sense of something wrong with the mine when the company sent them home early that prior Friday of April 2nd having issues with the ventilation systems. However, the issues were obviously not identified fully or resolved.
So many Americans lose their lives in various dangerous job functions, but we know the risks and those who take those risks are amazing people. To our mineworkers, firefighters, law enforcement, drillers, construction workers, manufacturers, automakers, assembly line people, and all those not mentioned who face dangerous obstacles everyday while keeping America going and making a living to boot – we are humbled, we are grateful, we are honored at your drive, tenacity and courage.
To the family and friends of the WV mine disaster, our hearts and prayers are with you. May all your loved ones rest in peace and may all the survivors of those lost, find peace within as well.
Time For Go-Go Juice! - The End of 12-Years is Near!
Hey – we made it! It’s FRIDAY!!! Nearing the end of the day from another long exhausting week – thank heavens for our Go-Go Juice as it keeps us going each and every day. Tomorrow, being Saturday – you know I posted how I love to sleep in on Saturdays? Well, not tomorrow – Cassy gets her Prom dress tomorrow! It’s already that time. Good Grief! Now time is going to fly! Her last day in school is May 26th and graduates June 6th! Wow…where has the time gone? I still remember her in pigtails and jumping up and down to ride the school bus back in 2nd grade. The world will be her oyster now. She has extreme talent in arts and design. I once thought she was going to become a fashion designer as she’s been creating her own dresses and outfits since younger than 5 years old – on the computer even. She’s amazing with her unique ideas. Then, a couple years ago, she got interested in architecture, where she swore she was going to get into interior design. I had her help me with some ideas with my last hotel. However, this year, you know what she said? She now has interest in becoming a teacher for kids under age 10. She explained that she loves kids – I have to admit she’s wonderful with her baby sister Melissa and she’s been doing some babysitting lately, but I wonder where she got her inspiration. I have a feeling she may be changing her desires a few more times. She’s heard our analogies of how people get college degrees then get into careers that have nothing to do with the degrees or academics they studied for. How many of you can say the same? That’s the tough thing when choosing a college or area of study. So many young teens choose so early in life – not to say it’s bad, but so many don’t have practical knowledge or hands on experience to truly decide what they want to be when they grow up? But then, how many of us reach 40 and still don’t! LOL. I’ve encouraged her to just get started no matter what – so many basic classes can get behind her so she can excel later when she’s ready. But for now, I know she’s not thinking classes. She’s thinking freedom…freedom to choose, freedom from 12 years of homework, studies and reaching for top grades as best as she can. She’s looking to find herself where she can make her mark in this world. And I know she can’t wait ‘till she can say to her siblings, “Ha, you have to go to school, but I don’t!” Plus she’s also stated she’s looking forward to getting employed. She worked in my hotel part time and enjoyed having a bank account and going shopping. What teenager doesn’t? Life is good! The employed part? I don’t know. As bad as the economy is, I would think (or at least hope) that kids fresh out of school are easier to get an entry level job (as someone starting fresh with no experience) than those of us who’ve been around the block a few times. So, here’s to you Cassy – just 34 more days of school! My baby…where’s the tissue? Top off your Go-Go Juice and have a great Friday night!
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