"Run Your Business From Home?

Here's 10 Ways to Be More Productive"

by Ali Brown

Ah, working at home sweet home... Visions of leisurely days, conference calls in comfy sweatpants, increased productivity with fewer interruptions. But the distinctions between work life and home life soon blur. You really should throw some laundry in the wash before you write that proposal. You have an hour before a meeting: Should you balance your books or clean the kitchen? And remember to call that client back right after you empty the cat box.

Welcome to the real world of the home office: unforeseen distractions, a lack of structured time, and sometimes a perceived loss of identity. But don't give up the dream just yet! By putting into place a few simple ideas, you can reap more of the rewards of staying home-bound. Based on my experiences and those of my clients, here are 10 simple ways to help you stay on track.

1. Separate Your Space.

Keep a separate, distinct work area in your home. Very important. (This is especially difficult if you're living and working in a shoebox apartment, like I was when I started my business in New York City!) If you don't have a separate room, at least define an area, and know that when you're in it, you're in "work mode."

2. Structure Your Time.

As your business and personal time mesh, it's more important than ever to structure your day. For example, if you regularly take a walk or go to the gym, try to do it every day at the same time. Value that personal appointment with yourself -- even when you're very busy. It will actually help you keep your business on track! I like to get up early and work until 1 pm, then I take a few hours off to enjoy lunch and go to the gym or jog on the beach. Then I'm back at my desk at 5:00 until who knows when!

3. Outsource All You Can.

When I began my business, I made the mistake of doing all my own administrative work. Whenever you start thinking, "Well I can just do that myself," STOP. Streamline your business, making everything as automatic as possible. Use outside services to stay focused on your *real work*. Get accounts with an overnight delivery service, virtual assistant, messenger service, errand service, bookkeeper, etc. Save your time and energy for your brilliant ideas!

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage.

In-person meetings are very valuable when appropriate, but schedule them sparingly. Try to do most of your business via phone, fax, and e-mail using the best equipment you can afford. For most of us, when we're out of the office, we're not bringing in the bacon! So it's important that you can communicate flawlessly from where you are. PLEASE do us all a favor and get separate lines/services for your phone, fax, and Internet! No one likes getting a busy signal or having to call first before faxing.

Get separate lines for home and business, or ask your phone company about getting "distinctive ring". Also, voicemail is better than an answering machine, because if you're on an important call and don't want to be disturbed, other callers can still leave you a message.

5. Group Your Errands.

Try to group your meetings and errands together to minimize your out-of-office time. Make a list in the morning of all the outside tasks you need done for the day, and attempt to complete them in one fell swoop. Even better, do what I used to do and designate just one day a week as your "blitz" day for errands and meetings. Plus, then you only need to get dressed up one day a week! : ) (Nowadays I use an errand service to run around for me.)

6. Stay Focused.

Make your workspace off-limits to other roommates or family members when you're working. For you animal lovers, this may go for pets as well. (My dear old cat Francine would get extremely jealous when I wasn't giving her complete attention!) Keep all personal paperwork such as bills, magazines, and to-do lists out of sight, so they won't distract you from your work projects.

7. Beware of Yappers.

Many of your friends and family will be immediately delighted when they learn that you're now home-officing. They picture you lounging on the couch, eating potato chips, and waiting for their calls. When they call you simply to chat, politely remind them that you're working, and ask them if you can call them back after your day is over. It may take them a while, but they'll eventually get the idea.

8. Work With Your Moods.

Keep track of your moods and productivity compared with the time of day. For example, if you find you're more alert in the morning, use this time to make important calls and do your creative work. Take advantage of your natural cycles. If you feel better after an afternoon nap, go for it! (I'm a BIG proponent of the catnap. In fact, I may start a support group.)

9. Suit Yourself.

To bring out your best work, make your environment perfect for YOU. How do you work best? With plenty of breaks, or with no interruptions? In silence, or with some light music in the background? On a cushy couch and coffee table, or at a business desk in an ergonomic chair? (My friends thought I was nuts when I spent $750 on my Herman Miller Aeron chair, but they quickly understood why I did once they sat in it! It will last forever and my spine thanks me every day.)

Also, find some places you can do work when you need a change of scenery. How about the library, the park, or your neighborhood coffee shop? When I need to do serious reading, thinking, or editing, I take my work outside to the beach. The sea air, sunshine, and soothing waves help me think much more clearly.

10. Break for People.

Feeling sluggish, lonely, or moody? Arrange for at least one social break during the week. Schedule breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even just coffee with a client, vendor, or friend. Join a business networking group, or sign-up for social activities such as dance class or recreational sports league. Don't go into hermit mode -- it can be self-destructive!

© 1999-2009 Alexandria Brown International Inc.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Online entrepreneur Alexandria K. Brown publishes the award-winning 'Highlights on Marketing & Success' weekly ezine with 36,000+ subscribers. If you're ready to jump-start your marketing, make more money, and have more fun in your small business, get your FREE tips now at www.AlexandriaBrown.com

This was posted on a Social Network I belong to, The Diva Within. I thought it was worth sharing.

If you are considering a home based business, I would like to recommend a great one. I started using the system two and half years ago and soon made it my focus. It is a great service for any business and it is also a business opportunity. This service is truly a home based business that requires only a computer, phone, and the ability to share this unique service with others. There is no inventory to purchase, no home parties required, and no deadlines to meet. Run your business working as little or as much as you choose. The long term benefit of this business is building a lasting residual income that continues to grow week by week. In today's economy, it is more important than ever to build lasting wealth that is resistant to changes in the economy. Learn more about this wonderful service and register for a gift account at Painted Lady Greeting Cards.

To Thriving in 2009!

Annette S. Walden
Marketing Solutions Consultant

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping you and your business look good!"

Gifts, Greeting Cards, Promotional Products, & Business Resources

Keeping in Touch

Do You Need a Reason?

There is an old saying that in order to have friends, we need to be one. In order to build a relationship it’s important to stay in touch. This applies in our personal lives as well as business.

Just like you nurture a relationship with a new friend you want to nurture your relationship with prospects so they can become your new friend. And I believe we need to nurture our relationships with our clients, but that’s a topic for another blog.

Frequent contact is necessary. It just doesn't have to be a direct in-your-face phone call. What's important is the contact and the value that contact brings the prospect.

Expand the ways you make contact. You might include: post cards, letters, greeting cards, emails, audios, videos, etc. Then mix up the forms of contact creating interest and anticipation.

Although you may have a lot of information of interest about your business, it is important in building a relationship that we take into consideration the interest of our prospect. By notating their interests and following up with them with information shows that you do truly care about building the relationship.

Sending a heartfelt card for a particular holiday or occasion of interest to your prospects is a way to show your attention to the mutual relationship. Obvious occasions are their birthday, anniversary, etc. Other times could be for congratulations on a promotion or other note worthy event, for an obscure holiday, like Groundhog Day, etc. Or perhaps if they have a favorite cause, send a card when there is a national observation. For instance World Kiwanis Week is the third week of January. Who do you know in Kiwanis? Valentine's Day is a great occasion to let our clients know how much we appreciate them for continued and loyal support.

Thought I would start something new this year and post the upcoming holidays for the month. Perhaps this will spark a reason to stay in touch with someone.

For those who know me well, know that I grew up in the Elvis era and I still like his music. His birthday is coming up, but it holds more of a significance to me than just the ‘King’s’ birthday. It is the day I met my late husband on a blind date 31 years ago on a cold rainy January day. If you look down my blog list, you can read the story in ‘Today should be declared a National Holiday!’ Just a little trivia about me.

A good resource for Holidays, National Observations, as well as Holidays Around the World is The Earth Calendar http://www.earthcalendar.net

January-1 New Year's Day
January-4 Trivia Day
January-5 Twelfth Night
January-6 Epiphany
January-8 Jackson Day
January-8 The King's Birthday (ELVIS)
January-9 Balloon Ascension Day
January-12 National Pharmacist Day
January-12 Stephen Foster Memorial Day
January-14 Ratification Day
January-16 Prohibition Remembrance Day
January-16 Religious Freedom Day
January-18 Maintenance Day
January-19 Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)
January-20 Inauguration Day
January-27 National Activity Professionals Day

January Events
Unless otherwise stated, these are generally observed in the US only.

Month Observances
Occasion

March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
National Glaucoma Awareness Month
Prevent Blindness America
Eye Care Month Optic Foundation of America
Hot Tea Month Tea Council of the USA
Human Resource Month Personnel Journal of America
Oatmeal Month Quaker Oats Company of America
Prune Breakfast Month California Dried Plum Board
Retail Bakers Month Retail Bakers of America
Soup Month Campbell Soup Company of America
Thyroid Disease Awareness Month American Assoc. of Clinical Endocrinologists
Volunteer Blood Donor Month American Assoc. of Blood Banks
Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness Month Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance
National Radon Action Month Environmental Protection Agency
Adopt a Rescued Bird Month American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Cervical Health Month National Cervical Cancer Coalition
National Physiotherapy Month Canadian Physiotherapy Association
National Birth Defects Prevention Month March of Dimes


Third Week
Occasion
International Printing Week International Association of Printing House Craftsmen
World Kiwanis Week Kiwanis International


Fourth Week
Occasion
National Handwriting Analysis Week American Handwriting Analysis Foundation


More Trivia:

- Only 3% of mail is personal
- 83% of people would rather receive a paper greeting card than an electronic greeting card
- People are 11 times more likely to open a greeting card that any other piece of mail

Who needs to hear from you today? Send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments. Register for a gift account at Painted Lady Greeting Cards.


Keep in Touch!

In gratitude,
Annette

Gifts, Greeting Cards, and Promotional Products
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

New Year Resolutions - Getting Organized

Did you procrastinate?

Didn’t send Holiday Cards? Need to send Thank You cards? Actually, sending cards now can get you noticed (and in a positive way). Instead of your card getting lost in the shuffle of the busy Holiday season, sending a heartfelt personal card for the New Year is surely to make your greeting ‘stand out from the rest.’

Are you making your resolutions for the New Year? Is getting organized and simplifying your life at the top of your list?  Getting Organized seems to make my Resolution List every year. What I find with organizing that has helped me the most over time, is putting systems and tools in place that not only remind me but help make the task easier and saves time and money. Here are two testimonials from two professional organizers who endorse as well as uses such a system.

Sending Christmas cards to all my clients was a breeze, using Send Out Cards with “custom shared” greeting cards. Send Out Cards saved me lots of time this holiday season: my client list is already loaded so I was able to hand-select who to send cards to, I had the cards “done” in November but had the campaign sent in December, and, of course, I didn’t have to address envelopes or slap on stamps – what a time-saving service!

Dawn McCloskey
Ultra Organized, LLC
Member: National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) and the NAPO Georgia Chapter
"From chaos comes order"

Send Out Cards is the perfect service to help any company or individual stay organized. I consider Send Out Cards essential when organizing a client’s home or office. I organize both residentially and commercially and Send Out Cards is perfect for families and businesses alike. With Send Out Cards you can easily upload all your contacts, set reminders, even make cards ahead of time and set them to send on a certain date. With a feature like this, even the busiest of clients can find the time to sit down once a month and send cards for all birthdays, anniversaries and other needs. Send Out Cards also allows you to create your own handwriting font so your cards even have your personal touch. Businesses can upload logos and other marketing pieces, making it the perfect tool to promote your business in a cost effective manner. Save time and money and become more organized in 2009 by using Send Out Cards.

Sharon L. Hess
Mommy Management, Inc.
2260 Rushmore Drive Suite P
Marietta, Ga. 30062
www.MommyManagementInc.com

So whether you want to send Happy New Year greetings or send Thank you cards or both, this greeting card system offers lots of great cards with New Year’s greetings and 1000s of great cards for every other occasion. Ring in 2009 with beautiful and thoughtful Happy New Year Cards for your family, friends, clients, and prospects. You can get very creative by customizing with colors, fonts, and images/photos to create wonderfully personalized cards that are unique and different. Wish your loved ones and clients joy and happiness in the coming year with an exceptional card from SendingCardsMadeEZ.com today!

Being one who has always been a card sender, this card system provided that system for me and so much more. It provides the tools within the system that helps me to save time all year long. No more driving to the store, post office, stocking cards, (not to mention still not having just the right card when I needed it) and then trying to remember to mail it at the appropriate time. This service has solved all these issues for me.

I invite you to try the system yourself. Experience a demonstration and send a couple of cards with my compliments. Log onto SendingCardsMadeEZ.com to register for a complimentary gift account.

I will be glad answer your questions and/or send you additional information. Get started today saving time and money. Find out how to set up your starter account.

Happy New Year and Happy Organizing!

In gratitude,
Annette

Resolve to Simplify Your Card Sending this year. Log on and find out how to create, personalize, and mail your cards with just a few mouse clicks. Send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments SendingCardsMadeEZ.com

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Whoosh.......

Whoosh…..

Did you hear it? It was the sound of the holidays coming and going or you could say the whole year. I thought it was just me, but I heard a number of people say that this year just flew by.

I love the holidays. I wish they didn’t come and go so fast. I spoke to a client the day after Christmas and asked her how she enjoyed her holidays and she said fine, but she was glad it was over. To me that is so sad. It is the one time of the year that I get to see most all of my children and family all at one time even if it is for only a couple of hours. Yes it’s a lot of work to get everything ready, the house cleaned, the decorations up, gifts bought, etc. etc., but to me it’s worth it. I just wish it lasted a little longer. It makes me want time to just stand still for a little while.

My oldest daughter stayed an extra day and we went to see a movie which was fun and relaxing. As I watch my grandchildren grow up so fast, I wish I lived closer to them so I could see and be with them more often. Maybe it wouldn’t seem like they grow several inches when I do see them.

Now it’s time to start making plans and goals for the New Year. To try and make each day count. To look back and reflect on last year and make plans to do better and keep the resolutions that didn’t quite see fruition this past year. To work smarter, not harder. To enjoy life…each and every minute. To make time for the important things so that this time next year we don’t hear that giant Whoosh and wonder what happened to the year.

This past year was a great year. I cannot complain. It was jammed packed and I have some great memories to cherish. Here’s to continuing to Thrive in 2009!

Happy New Year!

In gratitude,
Annette

Resolve to Simplify Your Card Sending this year. Log on and find out how to create, personalize, and mail your cards with just a few mouse clicks. Send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments Painted Lady Greeting Cards

Gifts, Greeting Cards, and Promotional Products

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Scattered, Smothered, and Covered

It's been a while since I have written something like this. I think it must have something to do with finally feeling better after being sick with the 'crud' as we refer to it in our family for the past two months. Anyway read on to find out what I was pondering today.

I think someone should open a cross between Starbucks and Waffle House. There are some of us with computers who want/need to get online and also want scattered, smothered and covered. Or is there a place like that and I just don't know about it. Well if there is, it's not around here or if it is, I don't know about it.

Why you ask am I pondering this? As I sat in the Atlanta Bread Company today waiting on my slow computer connection, eating my soup and somewhat dry bread, watching it rain....I see, Yep you guessed it.. Waffle House right around the street. Man I thought, I would have rather had eggs and cheese and grits and raisin toast. But alas, Waffle House doesn't serve Chai Tea. So that's when I came up with the idea...Someone needs to open a WaffStarBuck House for those who want our Chai Tea AND Scattered Smothered and Covered! What do you think? Why not? There are McDonald's that are adding WI-FI, why not Waffle House.

Tune in again soon to see what else I might be pondering.

Make it a Great Day!
Annette
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

Follow me on Twitter - PaintedLady1

Are Your Greeting Cards Done Yet?

Well it's December and the holidays are fast approaching whether you like it or not. Christmas is my favorite time of the year. It's just all the preperation leading up to it that gets me in a panic, wondering how in the world I'm going to get everything done.

One thing I can check off my list is the task of sending my greeting cards. Since I found this wonderful greeting card system over two years ago, sending my holiday cards is a snap. After I finally decide on my theme and design, it's a breeze. I can send a unique personalized card to everyone on my list and even send gifts or gift cards to those out of town that I won't be seeing over the holidays. I love to receive and send cards throughout the year. I guess that's why I enjoy this business so much and I like helping others with their cards too.

I'm also going to be sending greeting cards from Santa again this year. It's my third year to do this. It is so much fun creating cards for all the little ones who still believe in Santa Claus. I just wish I could be there when they get their personalized cards and see the expressions on their little faces. I love hearing from everyone about how surprised their child was and how they had to read the card to them over and over again.

Sending cards is just one of my favorite things about the Holiday season. I love the music, the decorations, all the good food, and of course seeing and visiting with family and friends.

Now if the cleaning and organizing fairy will show up and get busy, maybe I'll be ready by the time all the family starts arriving.

Happy Holidays,
Annette

Are your Holiday Cards done yet? Log on and find out how to create, personalize, and mail your cards with just a few mouse clicks. Send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments from Painted Lady Greeting Cards

Gifts, Greeting Cards, and Promotional Products

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

How Gratitude can bring an increase in your bottom line!

I hauled myself out of bed the other morning at 4AM in order to attend a Breakfast networking meeting that was entitled 'How Gratitude can bring an increase in your bottom line!' When I first got the invitation to this meeting, I thought Oh Boy! This is right up my alley. But after a long week at getting up early going to meetings and then attending more late night meetings also, not to mention suffering from a head cold and sinus infection going on 4 weeks now, when the alarm went off, I thought, OMG what was I thinking. I got ready anyway because I had to pick up my team mate who had registered and paid for us to go.

It was very well worth the trip. It was not your typical business meeting. This is a new group focused on all the right aspects of business. The very first exercise we did was to talk with those at our table and to tell what we were grateful for not in our business, but in our life. That was different, but it is close to Thanksgiving, so I could understand. But as the presentation went on, I began to see the true theme of the meeting and the organization. It was very refreshing because it hit right on my core values and beliefs, that of building relationships with people and trying to establish a helpful giving attitude will come back to you ten fold.

I go to a lot of face to face networking meetings of all kinds and meet a lot of people. My primary purpose, of course, like everyone else, it to find new business. Along the way I meet a lot of people who are doing the same thing. Now we all know we can’t all do business with each other, however we can try and help each other. How you ask? Listen and ask questions. Find out about the person and their business, what makes them unique and different from others in their industry. One of the questions that you can ask, which was presented in this meeting, “Why should I do business with you?” Try that one sometimes and you’ll be surprised at the answers you get. Also think about what you would say if someone asked you that question. Now you still might not need their services at the moment, but you can use that information in a number of ways.

Here are five things you can do:

• Introduce that person to a good referral partner for them. Example: Introduce a Real Estate person to a mortgage broker.
• Suggest/invite them to other networking meetings, groups, organizations, etc. that they might attend. I have a ‘Networking Opportunities’ list posted on my website that I refer people to.
• If it’s someone you really want to establish a relationship with, make the effort to follow up with them. Send them a note or card. Call and set up a meeting for coffee with the intention of ‘How can we help each other’ or ‘I want to get to know you and understand your business better.’
• File their info, so you will have it when you hear someone needs that service. Establish yourself as a ‘Who do you know that does?”
• Refer that person whenever possible.

Here is an example of how gratitude helped my bottom line this week. I help co-host a women’s monthly networking meeting. We had a professional organizer who attended our meetings a few times. She impressed me because besides just introducing herself and telling about her business, she would offer helpful tips on organizing. We established some rapport and she started using my greeting card service for which I was grateful. When someone asks if I know an organizer, I refer them to her. One of the referrals was to my sister in law, who just raved about the ideas and information she provided, and she would definitely be using her services. I also asked her to be a speaker at an upcoming business meeting in January. So even though I have not used her services personally, I know she’s very good and knowledgeable at what she does and she is very reliable.

Here’s where the story gets interesting. I recently acquired a new client for my greeting card business and when I talked with her and asked how she found out about me and my service, she said she had been a speaker at a recent meeting of which my friend the organizer had sent her a thank you card. Do you turn cards over to see what brand it is? My website was printed on the back of the card. She liked the card so much, she set up her own account, tried it, liked it, and then upgraded. Was I grateful? You better believe it. I not only sent a Thank You card, but a gift as well.

So, I believe, the point of all this is showing gratitude and appreciation and helping others can help to build your business because they in turn will do the same for us.

I leave you with these quotes:

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?" ~William A. Ward

Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone. ~G.B. Stern

“Send Out to Give” Kody Bateman

“What goes around, comes around” - Proverb quote

Happy Thanksgiving to You and Yours!

In gratitude,
Annette S. Walden

Are your Holiday Cards done yet? Log on and find out how to create, personalize, and mail your cards with just a few mouse clicks. Register for a Gift Account and send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments at Painted Greeting Cards.

Gifts, Greeting Cards, and Promotional Products
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Being Gracious in Business

It’s the holiday season I can already tell. It seems that this time of the year people’s nerves seem to be on edge. Or is the economy or a combination of both? Or is it that some individuals who are in business just don’t understand that being gracious in business dealings will help to build a lasting relationship with a client or potential client. And hopefully that lasting relationship will lead to future business and/or referrals.

Here are some of my recent musings that have prompted me to write this blog.

Sometimes people may not need your product or service when you initially talk with them. If you’re gracious during your interaction, they might remember you the next time someone says, “Do you know someone who sells XYZ?” Or they may even come back to you months later and say OK now the time is right and I want to buy your product or service.

Sometimes you may order something and when you received it, it just wasn’t what you expected. And if the person is gracious about letting you return it, you might be more apt to try and do business with them the next time you were looking for other products that they sell.

Sometimes people just don’t respond to your time table. People are busy. Life happens. People forget. Your priorities are not their priorities. I’ve always heard that sugar works better than vinegar or if life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Sometimes a gentle nudge as a reminder works a whole lot better than sending a nasty gram/email. You never know what problems or issues they may be dealing with.

Sometimes having a cheerful, positive, and helpful attitude will promote you and your business far more than you know. I recently helped to put together a Holiday and Gift Bazaar. We did a lot of work promoting it, but we did not have the turn out that we had wanted. Most everyone was gracious and understanding and blamed it on the economy, etc. I was very impressed with one individual whose attitude and actions went far beyond my expectations. She even sent us a thank you note telling us how much she appreciated how professional everything was done and that she appreciated all our efforts. Now, she sells a product that I typically purchase from someone else, but because of her graciousness, the next time I am in need of this product, I will be ordering from her, referring her, and finding ways I can help her with her business.

And Sometimes I have been know to lose my cool as a consumer and pull out the ‘B’ card. I regret it when I do. Recently I had been trying to get an issue resolved. The person I was dealing with had done a wonderful job except for one little thing and she was a friend. She had to work through her company for a solution. I have to give her credit; she handled herself and me very graciously. She found and provided me with an acceptable resolution. I had been giving her glowing testimonials, but after that I am even more ingratiated to her. I recommend her every chance I get and I will do business with her again.

Here are some quotes to consider for doing business. I offer them for us to ponder this holiday season and throughout the year.

• Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
• If you help enough people get want they want, you’ll get what you want. Zig Zilar
• Givers Gain – Ivan Misner
• Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the grateful and appreciating heart. ~Henry Clay
• Gratitude is merely the secret hope of further favors. ~François Duc de La Rochefoucauld
• It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. ~Author Unknown
• Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you - not because they are nice, but because you are. ~Author Unknown
• Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. ~Mark Twain
• The fragrance always lingers in the hand that gives the flower

I hope the saying that ‘Nice guys (gals) finish last’ isn’t true. And even if it is, I would rather be remembered as being gracious in my business dealings.

In gratitude,
Annette S. Walden
Marketing Solutions Consultant

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping you and your business look good!"

Gifts, Greeting Cards, Promotional Products, & Business Resources

The Artful Table

Today's blog is about a fun event that took place locally this past weekend, 'The Artful Table.'

The Dawson County arts council held it’s second “Artful Table” luncheon this past weekend. It was a fund raiser for a local art council. Tables were decorated for the luncheon. All types of people and groups signed up to decorate tables using all types of themes. The men who were the servers for the luncheon are on the board of the arts council. This year was a sold out event with over 100 people attending.

I had the idea to sign up to decorate a table using greeting cards with the theme ‘Send Out to Give.’ I talked two of my friends and fellow distributors into helping. I knew between the three of us, we could come up with a beautiful table. After some tedious planning and staging hours, trips to the store, the washing and polishing of dishes and silver, we pulled it all together. Our table was beautiful. I think we even surprised ourselves.

The luncheon was wonderful. We met lots of wonderful people, had lots of comments and compliments on our table, and some interest in the greeting cards. Each person who attended voted on their favorite table. The tables were incredible. The creativity was just unbelievable. Although our table didn’t win, we had a great time and it was a very enjoyable day.

Here is a link on my Facebook account to view all the tables:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=76952&id=1485257979

In gratitude,
Annette
Painted Lady Enterprises
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Why are some businesses and sales people thriving in today’s economy?

Because these are the companies that have shown their clients that they truly appreciate them and their business. They have built a solid relationship with them. They have got to know them on a more personal level. Not only do their clients keep buying from them but they give them referrals.

Here are some ways that companies can show their clients appreciation.
• Taking the time to build the relationship.
• Finding out about their needs, their goals, and their vision.
• Treating them more as a business partner.
• Something as simple as sending them a note or card thanking them for their business at some time besides when they have just placed an order.
• Helping them even if it doesn't mean money in your pocket.
• Introducing them to another business partner that might help them with their goal/vision.

Many businesses and sales people who sell large ticket items, i.e. cars, real estate, etc., can benefit from relationship marketing. By building the relationship and keeping in touch with their clients is a great referral source. I refer to these clients as a “Golden Referral Source.”

If the sales person has built a solid relationship with their client, found them the perfect, home, car, etc., AND stays in touch with them over the years ahead, they will receive referrals from that client for years to come. The best example I have is a couple I know who sell real estate. I am not a client of theirs now, but when I do buy or sell, they will be who I call.

Here are some examples of how they stay in touch with their past clients and potential clients:
• They send a beautiful magazine from them each month on home decor.
• They give out a small magnetic yearly calendar with their business card around Thanksgiving,
• They give a baseball schedule in the spring, a football schedule in the fall. The football schedule is for the two major colleges in the area and the pro team.
• They send an email newsletter each month
• They send birthday and wedding anniversary cards.
• And they an anniversary card on the date of the anniversary that their clients closed on their home that they purchased through them.

I've never bought a thing from them, but you better believe when someone asks me for a real estate person, they are the ones I refer, simply because they go beyond the call of duty.

Some companies are cutting their prices to keep their clients in today's economy. If a company has a quality product, outstanding service, is dependable, and has built a solid relationship, then that customer is not going to stray just because they might save a few dollars. They realize that the relationship and service they have received is worth a whole lot more. Not only are they not going to stray they will be a 'Golden Referral Source.'

Here are some inexpensive ways to stay in front of your clients.
• Follow up with a phone call, offer industry information on a periodic basis like an email newsletter.
• Mailing them something personal not bulk or junk mail.
• Personal visit to their place of business and not necessarily to make a sale.
• Be their business partner. Take a personal interest in their success. Zig Ziglar says that if you help enough people to get what they want, you’ll get what you want.

Remember that it is more costly to find a new customer than it is to maintain and keep the ones you currently have. If you maintain 5% of your current clientele you can double your business. Because they will come back to you time and time again and will refer others to you.

Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out. Robert Collier

In gratitude,
Annette S. Walden
Marketing Solutions Consultant

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping you and your business look good!"

Gifts, Greeting Cards, Promotional Products, & Business Resources

10 business practices you can implement for a greener business

Updated 1/23/16 - Unfortunately this article no longer exists - From the American Business Women's Company Connecting Online Newsletter. In this issue, learn the 10 business practices you can implement for a greener business and Yours Truly has an article published written by Mia Katz, page 2. http://www.abwa.org/CC-Newsletter/ComConOctNov08.pdf.

However, I did find this link which provides some great ways to be 'Green in business ' - Green Business Practices. 

In gratitude,
Annette 

Send Out to Give - Act on Your Promptings - Who needs to hear from you today? Send them a REAL greeting card with my compliments  www.SendOutCards.com/12466

Gifts, Greeting Cards, and Promotional Products

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

How do I stay in front of my prospects and customers? I’m worried that out of sight translates into out of mind.

I love it when I find or receive information from experts that reconfirms the marketing products and services that I offer. I read this and just went WOW…did she write this for me or what!

I had the great pleasure of hearing Liz Goodgold with Red Fire Branding, http://www.redfirebranding.com, speak several months ago. She is just a wealth of information on a common sense approach to marketing. Here is an excerpt from her latest e-zine that I just received.

Answer:

The good news is that you recognize that people must think of you in order to do business with you. Earning top of mind awareness can translate into over the top sales. Here are a few action items you can implement:

1. Thank you Cards - Who in their live feels that they are over appreciated? (Not me!) A simple, handwritten, snail mailed card to thank someone for a little extra effort is a welcoming touch.

2. E-mail Newsletters - Yes, this tactic works, but only if it offers timely, useful, and valuable. E-mail newsletters that are all about you without delivering value are destined for the delete button.

3. Speaking - Offering your knowledge to a trade group meeting or monthly get-together positions you as the expert. You don’t have to become a professional speaker (no more competition, please!), but you do have to have an organized, coherent talk peppered with real examples. Audience members become your prospects and your referral base.

4. Relevant Premiums - Remember that the goal is not share of desk (how much real estate can I capture with my imprinted stapler, Post-It Note pad, ruler or pen), but rather share of mind. If you are an orthodontist, like Dr. Melanie Parker, your pen isn’t an ordinary pen, but a severely crooked one that represents the state of her patients’ teeth. Or, perhaps it is a simple fly swatter, compliments of Lloyd’s Pest Control. As long as it relates to your business and your prospects, it works!


One easy way is to literally keep your name in front of prospects is by placing it when and where they are. Bill Howe plumbing always puts stickers on customers’ pipes just in case there is a leak.

Discount Purifiers of San Diego places its information on water filters, and 1-800-APPLIANCE supplies magnets for your refrigerator to increase recall.

Sean Farrell, a top Mercedes Benz salesman, succeeds by being a wealth of information about the great bells and whistles found on the new models. One of my favorite tactics is that he programs his phone number into your car’s phone memory database. He’s always there when you need him. Vroom!

By Liz Goodgold from Red Fire Branding e-Zine.
Website: http://www.redfirebranding.com

In gratitude,
Annette S. Walden
Marketing Solutions Consultant

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

"Helping you and your business look good!"

Gifts, Greeting Cards, Promotional Products, & Business Resources

THE ABC'S TO ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS!!

I was going through my files today and came across this and thought I would share.

A-void negative sources, people, things and habits.

B -elieve in yourself.
C -onsider things from every angle.
D -on't give up and don't give in.
E -njoy life today: yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come.
F -amily and Friends are hidden treasures. Seek them and enjoy their riches.
G -ive more than you planned to give.
H -ang on to your dreams.
I -gnore those who try to discourage you.
J -ust do it!
K -eep on trying, no matter how hard it seems. It will get better.
L -ove yourself first and foremost.
M -ake it happen.
N -ever lie, cheat, or steal. Always strike a fair deal.
O -pen your eyes and see things as they really are.
P -ractice makes perfect.
Q -uitters never win and winners never quit.
R -ead, study and learn about everything important in your life.
S -top procrastinating.
T -ake control of your own destiny.
U -nderstand yourself in order to better understand others.
V -isualize it.
W -ant it more than anything.
X -ccelerate your efforts.
Y -ou are unique of all of Nature's creations. Nothing can replace you.
Z -ero in on your target, and go for it!!

A -void negative sources, people, things and habits. B -elieve in yourself. C -onsider things from every angle. D -on't give up and don't give in. E -njoy life today: yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come. F -amily and Friends are hidden treasures. Seek them and enjoy their riches. G -ive more than you planned to give. H -ang on to your dreams. I -gnore those who try to discourage you. J -ust do it! K -eep on trying, no matter how hard it seems. It will get better. L -ove yourself first and foremost. M -ake it happen. N -ever lie, cheat, or steal. Always strike a fair deal. O -pen your eyes and see things as they really are. P -ractice makes perfect. Q -uitters never win and winners never quit. R -ead, study and learn about everything important in your life. S -top procrastinating. T -ake control of your own destiny. U -nderstand yourself in order to better understand others. V -isualize it. W -ant it more than
anything. X -ccelerate your efforts. Y -ou are unique of all of Nature's creations. Nothing can replace you. Z -ero in on your target, and go for it!!

As Mike Dooley says....Thoughts Become Things....Choose the good ones!

In gratitude,
Annette
Painted Lady Enterprises

Recession Proof Your Business

Thank a Customer a day –

Did you know acquiring a new customer can cost 8 to 10 times more than retaining an existing one; this can be a costly approach. According to customer relationship management experts, companies can increase revenue by 50% if they retain only 5% more of their customers.

Businesses lose business because they don’t keep in regular touch with their customers and clients? They have good intentions for personal communication with them but just can't find the time? It is also said that customers go somewhere else due to perceived indifference. Remember to appreciate your customers or someone else will.

If you are a successful business owner, you know the value of building relationships with your customers. Part of that starts with showing your customers that you appreciate their business and that you care. Do you want to DOUBLE your sales?
Do you want every one of your customers to come back and buy from you again and again? Do you want referrals? Do you want them to remember you when they talk to family and friends?

Would you like a stream of endless referrals?

All you have to do is simply THANK A CUSTOMER A DAY.
That's the advice from the world's leading sales gurus who stress the importance of the customer AFTER the sale.

THINK about this. When was the last time someone thanked YOU for YOUR purchase? For your on-going business? Or for a referral? Sent you a birthday card? An Anniversary card?

Usually it makes you feel appreciated and valued, and makes you want to do business with that person again and again and refer them to other family and friends.
Too often we know this, but do not do it because it's to time consuming or costly. But if it costs 8 to 10 times more to get new customers, why not take the time to retain the ones we have. Let your customers and clients know you care. If you don’t show your customers you appreciate them, someone else will.

Happy Thanking!
http://www.cardsbypaintedlady.com/
"Changing Lives, One Card at a Time"

Follow-up is Key to Success

The Fortune is in the Follow-up

But What and How do You do it? Or Have it done unto You?

Here are some key statistics on follow up:

48% of sales people never follow up with a prospect
25% of sales people make a second contact and stop
12% of sales people only make three contacts and stop
Only 10% of sales people make more than three contacts
2% of sales are made on the first contact
3% of sales are made on the second contact
5% of sales are made on the third contact
10% of sales are made on the fourth contact
80% of sales are made on the fifth to twelfth contact

Being in the marketing business I often have people make the statement to me, “Well when I get some customers I will use your product and service.” Huh?

So I ask….how do you follow up with your prospects? And I get varied answers depending on the business. Sometimes I see this blank look on their face and I know they belong to the 48%.

I relate the selling process to that of dating or the really old fashion term - courting. Now I know things have changed a great deal in regards to dating, but think about it. We want the prospects to notice us, to like us, trust us, like our product or service. How do you do that if it’s not ‘Love at First Site?’

We get blasted with all types of media, print ads, direct mail, emails, and the list goes on for products and services that everyone thinks and knows we need before we know we think we need or want it.

So my question is ….. What do you pay attention to in relation to a salesperson’s follow-up? What gets your attention? Email? Direct Mail – (something that is obliviously a form letter)? Personal Mail? Phone calls?

How do you prefer a salesperson to follow up with you? How do you wish to be courted? How does a salesperson gain your respect and trust?

These are the questions I ponder since I am in the relationship marketing business. My goal is to help businesses build relationships with clients and prospects for a source of endless referrals. So when someone makes the statement “I’ll call you when I get some clients….” Are they saying I don’t have any money to spend on your product or service or they just don’t understand good old fashion ‘courting?’

Happy Courting!
Painted Lady Enterprises
Gifts, Greeting Cards, & Promotional Products
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
“Helping You and Your Business Look Good”

National Networking Week

 

International Networking Week*

I attended a seminar and had the great pleasure of hearing Brian Tracy speak. I was quite happy to hear him say that everyone in business needs to spend 80% of their time prospecting. As I attend numerous networking meetings, I had sometimes wondered if it was a good use of my time. I also had the privilege of hearing John Maxwell speak in and had a definite 'aha' moment. He said that just because we are busy does not mean we are being effective. So what does all this mean? Going to networking meetings will certainly keep us busy, however it's what we do when we're there and the follow-up that is the real value.

Is networking effective? You betcha! When I took early retirement from my corporate job and decided to work my part-time passion full time, I did an analysis of my current client list to see from where my clients had evolved. I found that 80% of them had come from the one networking group that I had been a member of for eight years. That told me that networking does work!

There is value in networking, however it's like taking a bath, 'you can't just attend just one meeting and expect to receive a pile of leads.' Networking works if you work it. Most people do business with someone they trust. Someone they have built a relationship with. Most people are not going to give you their business or a referral the first time they meet you. You have to build trust and a relationship by showing up again and again. That says that you are a hardworking, reliable, trust-worthy person. Participating actively and adding value helps to also build the relationship.

Here are some tips to further accelerate the networking process:

• Present the right image. Be dressed professional or what is appropriate for the group, i.e. if you know most of the people will be business casual, then business casual is appropriate.
• Always wear a name tag and wear it on your right shoulder
• Have plenty of business cards that are distinctive, colorful, and legible
• Approach people you already know so that they can introduce you to others. This is a good strategy for you also. Introduce those that could benefit from each other's services. (i.e. Like a real estate person and a mortgage person)
• Ask questions about their business so that you are clear on good leads for them. Listen carefully. Remember, you are NOT there to sell, but meet others and establish relationships.
• Mingle, Mingle, Mingle - Step out of your comfort zone. Look for the person who looks lost (usually first timers) introduce yourself and ask questions.
• Position yourself in the room near the food and/or drinks in order to be more visible and meet more people
• Always remember WIIFM (What's In It For Me) - This is what most people are thinking about. So be able to describe your business or product in terms of the benefit to the potential client. Does your product or service save time and/or money? Also, be able to describe your perfect client.
• Offer to get together for coffee or lunch with those that could be good business alliances Follow up with a note or phone call and if possible offer something of value like another networking group or meeting that might be of interest to them. Or perhaps send a promotional item the person would keep and use. 
• Keep your name in front of them. If you have a newsletter or ezine you publish, ask if you may add them to your distribution list
• Send Congratulatory cards and letters. If you see their name in the paper for an accomplishment and/or promotion, call or send a note.
• Pass well qualified referrals and ask that they use your name.
• When you get a referral, even if you don't get the sale, Always thank the person who gave you the lead.
• Donate door prizes others will want and remember
• Be involved with 4 networking groups 1 closed, 2 open, and 1 volunteer.
• Take advantage of daily opportunities to meet people.
• Treat everyone you meet with equal consideration. When you're networking your way to the top, it pays to stay in everyone's good graces. Apply the Golden Rule to all of your networking relationships. Brain Tracy also said 'Good comes from Everything.'

Happy Networking!
Annette
Virtual Assistant Specializing in Relationship Marketing
www.paintedladyenterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

No One Needs to Give Me a Reason to Wear Redd

No one needs to give me a reason to wear Red. I love the color. My nickname is Redd. My car is red. My vanity plates says REDDS. But for those that may need a reason, here is a very good one.

´National Wear Red Day´
Friday, February 2nd
Everyone (including men!) can support the fight against heart disease in women by wearing red on National Wear Red Day — this Friday, February 2nd.
It's a simple yet powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke. By wearing red, you'll help The American Heart Association (www.americanheart.org) support ongoing research and education about women and heart disease.

On Friday, February 2, you'll be a "Fashion DO" -- as long as you're wearing RED. Women are urged to wear red on Friday, February 2nd for "National Wear Red Day," an initiative spearheaded the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the American Heart Association (AHA), and WomenHeart, to raise awareness of the number one killer of American women: heart disease.

GLAMOUR recently named women's heart health as the magazine's official cause since more women die each day of cardiovascular conditions than any other disease -- yet many women are unaware of this danger In October 2003, GLAMOUR partnered with the groundbreaking "Red Dress Project," an on-going health initiative led by First Lady Laura Bush and the NHLBI. Co-sponsors of the campaign are the AHA, the Department of Health and Human Services, and WomenHeart, the only national group for women with heart disease. "The Red Dress" is the new symbol for women and heart disease. Like the pink ribbon of breast cancer, this icon was created to call attention to this deadly yet often preventable illness.

Heart Disease Doesn't Care What You Wear—It's the #1 Killer of Women. Every woman can take steps to lower her risk of developing heart disease. It's never too early or too late to improve heart health—even for those who have already had a heart attack. Whatever a woman's age, she needs to take action to protect her heart health.

For more information log onto

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/hearttruth/index.htm
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3017091

Celebrate National Wear Red Day — this Friday, February 2nd

Whether you plan to wear red this Friday or would like some advice on how to wear red more effectively throughout the year, here are some quick tips to consider:
#1 Know Your Destination. No other color is charged with as much energy, emotion or passion as red. Its popularity in clothing is universal, spanning all ages, professions and cultures. Used wisely in business settings, it can enhance communication and create excitement for your ideas. Why do you think the red “power tie” is so popular. Yes, red is appropriate for the office when it is presented professionally.

#2 Choose Your Shoes Carefully. Black shoes are usually your best bet when wearing red clothing, especially in the winter months. We love red shoes too. However, they are best when used as an accent with base neutral colors in your wardrobe. See tip #4 below for more about red shoes.

#3 Put Your Best Leg Forward. Nine out of ten times, black stockings will appear too harsh when worn during the daytime with a solid red outfit. Sheer, nude hosiery will often create a softer daytime look. If you prefer to wear black stockings or black tights in the cooler months because of the extra coverage they provide for your legs, do so strategically. For instance, change the buttons on a red suit or sweater to black so they connect nicely to black hosiery and shoes while working to lessen the severity of the combination. A black turtleneck worn with a red wool skirt, black tights and black suede pumps or dress boots can also help you achieve a well-balanced and figure flattering appearance.

#4 Use Red as an Accent. Adding five red pieces to your wardrobe in the same hue can punch up your wardrobe, giving you endless options with many of the base neutral colors (i.e. black, gray, navy, chocolate and camel) already in your wardrobe. Once you have decided on the shade that best compliments your skin tone and personality, versatile pieces to add include a red top, a red bag, red shoes, red shawl or scarf and red jewelry. Remember; don’t wear these pieces all at the same time unless you are looking for a citation from the fashion police!

#5 Spring Forward. Nautical looks are everywhere for spring 2007, with navy, red and white combinations taking center stage. Many of the red accents that work in the winter months can easily translate for spring. Red silk shells, red leather belts and red shoes purchased on the winter clearance racks now will be an easy way to update your spring wardrobe when the weather changes.

#6 Anyone Can Wear Red. Yes – even Natural Redheads. It depends on the hue of the red. Not all “reds” are the same. Cool blue reds look best on most of the population. Tomato reds look great on a Natural Redhead.

Excerpts from Dressing Well Tip of the Week http://www.dressingwell.com

For more tips on image for business, log onto www.paintedladyenterprises.com "Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Until the next time I feel inspired.

The Painted Lady known to some as "Redd"

A Very Worthy Cause

The dreaded "C" word has taken many of my family and loved ones, so I am more than willing to do my part to help even in a small way and I truly admire those who go beyond what is expected to help to find a cure. Case in point, my lovely daughter in law. A few blogs ago I told you about my grandson who recently took his last Chemo treatment and our celebration.

If you would like to see what my daughter in law is doing to help the cause, log onto http://www.active.com/donate/tntga/bwalden She is currently in training for the Team in Training ING Marathon in my grandson's honor. TNT is a collection of athletes, trainers, and mentors who are dedicated to raising funds to further the research to fine a cure for blood related cancers. If you are looking for a worthy cause, I would put this at the top of the list.

I will be there March 25 with my cow bell to cheer her on!!

Until next time -
The Painted Lady

Handwriting Analysis

National Handwriting Analysis Week

January 23 is John Hancock’s Birthday and also is National Handwriting Analysis Week

What does Your John Hancock say about You?

HANDWRITING ANALYSIS ----

Handwriting analysis began with cave men writing pictures, or symbols, for communication. It is a time tested evaluation tool with research validating back to the early 1600’s. It does not invade a person’s right to privacy and it is non discriminatory. It is also categorized in the Library of Congress as a credible science. Handwriting analysis is applied to investigations, historical profiles, employees and teams, job applicants, and for personal profiling. For information and products on learning how to amaze your friends check out my website http://www.paintedladyenterprises.com/ for Handwriting materials

A sample of handwriting can reveal over 150 personality traits. Each stroke, mark, slant, letter formation, letter spacing, word spacing and pen pressure tells what is going on inside that person’s mind……what makes them tick! The next time you put your pen to paper - just remember - someone nearby just might be watching how you dot your 'i's and cross your 't's. Or just for fun, give yourself a self-test of your handwriting. Look on my website http://www.paintedladyenterprises.com/ for a free self-test on your handwriting.

According to proper etiquette, when we write personal notes such as thank you notes, etc., we should respond with a handwritten note. With modern technology and everyone into email, text messaging, etc., the rules of old fashioned manners and etiquette have somewhat gone by the way side.

However, a relatively new company, Send Out Cards™, has matched modern technology with old fashioned etiquette. With their very innovative card system, you can now personalize a card with your own handwriting from your computer. Their service allows for you to have your handwriting scanned, then uploaded to your personal account. From your computer, then when you type your message, it will appear in the card in your own personal handwriting. The company then prints your card, puts it in an envelope, puts a stamp on it, and mails it for you through the U.S. mail. Now that’s what I call a Great Idea! It is such a great idea that SOC will be featured on CNBC and the E channel on an upcoming show called America's Best Products.

To learn more about this great service contact distributor, Annette Walden, by sending email to http://www.paintedlady@sendoutcards.com/ . If you would like to send a free greeting card and see how this fascinating system works, log onto http://www.paintedladygreetingcards.com/

Today Should Be a National Holiday!

Today should be declared a National Holiday!

Why you ask? It’s Elvis Presley’s birthday among other things. http://www.elvis.com/. Yes, I am an Elvis fan and proud of it. Not a fanatic, but definitely a fan. I was probably about 10 or 11 when he first started making it big. Always liked his music. Saw all his movies. Went to his concerts. Bought a lot of his records and albums. I liked his first movies. I think he had what it took to be a good actor, but Colonel Parker had different ideas. I like almost all kinds of music, but especially good old rock and roll or rockabilly as some call it. Never really did get into the Beatles. They came on the scene when I was in high school. I have also made the pilgrimage to Tupelo to see his birthplace and on to Memphis for a tour of Graceland. My mother and I went in the early 80s. I have lots of pictures, somewhere.

I remember the day he died, August 16, 1977 I saw the announcement on TV and screamed. My daughter came running in the room wanting to know what was wrong. I was devastated. 1977 was a very eventful year for me anyway. I was divorced, wrecked my car, Elvis died, and I turned 30! All within about 4 months!

But there is another reason January 8th is significant to me. I met my late husband for the first time, on a blind date, January 8, 1978. It was a miserable rainy day. I had been out the night before, had gone to my mother’s to pick up the kids, stopped and got dinner on the way home. I remember I was listening to the radio. Since it had only been a few months since Elvis had died, that’s about all they were playing on the radio. Anyway, the phone rang and it was him (the man I was to marry). He wanted me to come and meet him for dinner. He had called a few days before. He said that a mutual friend of ours had given him my phone number. He said he would like to meet me and would call back in a few days. I called my friend and asked her who this guy was. She just chuckled and said that she had been telling him about me for months, but that the timing had not been right yet for us to be introduced. She then went on to tell me not to get serious about him, he was not the marring kind, but he was nice, would show me a good time. And so the story went……

Getting back to that fateful rainy January 8th. After some persistence and him offering to pay for a baby sitter I agreed to meet him for a drink. I arrived early, as I am somewhat of a compulsive punctual, and went on in the restaurant. The place was almost empty. Remember it was a miserable rainy Sunday night. Not many people out. Anyway, he finally walked in. I figured it had to be him, so I stood up and he looked at me with a somewhat puzzled look on his face. It would be months before he told me the story as to why he looked so surprised. We introduced ourselves. He slipped his arm around my waist and turned to the hostess and said we would have a table for two for dinner. They sat us by the fireplace. It turned out to be quite an enjoyable evening. Even though he was a little older than me, 12 years, we had a lot in common. He was in sales, successful, married before, had children, etc. I found him to be someone I could talk to and could relate to. That was to be just the beginning. Four years later, after we were married, he surprised me by taking me to that same restaurant and had the hostess sit us at the same table. The manager was so impressed that he sent a bottle of champagne to our table. He could be quite the romantic guy. Always wanting to surprise me with something.

He called the next week and we went out that next Friday evening. To make a long story short after 3 ½ years we did get married and were married almost 16 years. He passed away of cancer on September 2, 1997. He was in good company. Princess Di had passed away that Saturday night before and Mother Teresa the Thursday after.

Our marriage was something else. He was my soul mate. I loved him dearly. I’ve often described our marriage as “We loved hard, we played hard, and we fought hard.” Those who knew him would understand that comment. He even had a song written about him. And in the song was a line that says, “All know how to die, but few know how to live.” I had that put on his marker. He taught me how to live everyday. To have fun and enjoy life for there might not be a tomorrow. I miss him, especially when significant days like this come around.

I found this poem which best describes him: (author unknown)

If I close my eyes
and quietly listen…
I can almost hear you near.
Your big and joyous laughter,
Ringing in my ears.
Of all the things about you,
I think it’s this laughter
I miss the most.
The way your eyes would sparkle,
with your newest, biggest boast.
Remembering the ways you are special,
keeps you in our days.
Your laughter lives on in our hearts,

These memories will never go away!

Cherish Your Loved Ones Now for tomorrow they may not be around.

Thank You, Ah Thank You Very Much!
The Painted Lady

P.S. Ladies and Gentlemen....Elvis has left the building.