Tag-Archive for ◊ family ◊

Are You Sharing The True Meaning Of Christmas?

•

This time of the year can be one of great excitement, joy or depression. It all depends on what is happening in your life. Are you sharing the true meaning of Christmas?

To people who do not have financial worries this time of the year is truly joyous. It is a wonderful feeling going to the stores and looking for gifts for your family and friends. It is a great feeling to pull out your list and checking it twice of all the notes for what people in your life have mentioned they would “love to have” throughout the year. Your smile widens at the thought of them opening your gift.

But, there are those people who are wondering if they are going to be able to make their next mortgage payment and how they are going to buy food to feed their children or themselves. This can really cause depression at this time of the year. I personally know how it feels not to be able to buy gifts for the people I love. You can come through the month of December feeling like a failure and very, very sad.

Maybe you have experienced dealing with a less than congenial sales person or cashier. Instead of rewarding their less than appropriate attitude with one of indifference I end up asking myself what could be going on in their life. Are they feeling badly watching all the money that is being spent and wishing they only had maybe twenty dollars that they could spend on a gift for their spouse or child? Cashiers in grocery stores may be wishing they could afford to buy the makings of a traditional Christmas dinner.

Even if you are in the position of not have enough money to splurge on Christmas with the gifts and all the decorations, I am sure you can find something to be thankful for. Healthy children, a spouse that loves you and is by your side, a job, or even a part-time job …. These are just a few blessings.

I can remember one year after I was divorced that I did not have money to buy my girls Christmas gifts. They “needed” new nightgowns and that was the only gift I could wrap and put under the tree. In addition to the wrapped nightgowns under the tree, I sat down and wrote each of my daughters a note telling them how much I loved them and how important they were to me. I told them that I was sorry I could not give them more but I was giving them the greatest gift I had … ALL of my love! And I hung the notes on the Christmas tree.

So as you are going through this hectic time I hope you will try to have compassion for the less fortunate people around you. And for people you don’t know an outstretched hand, hug or simple Merry Christmas could do a great deal to lift that feeling of depression.

Many years ago I wrote the following and every year around this time I like to share it. I hope you will take a few minutes from your busy schedule to read it.

The title is, “The Greatest Gift”.

As the last faint sounds of Christmas carols fade off in the distance, and the water begins to chill around your ankles as you soak your aching feet …. What will you really recall about Christmas? What was the greatest gift?

I honestly believe that if a poll was taken as to the true meaning of Christmas, “receiving/buying gifts” and “Santa Claus” would rank as the most often answered.

Will a smile of love and appreciation cross our faces in the midst of scurrying around to find a bigger and better present for sister Sally than what brother Joe will give her; hunting down the fullest and tallest tree, and decorating our dwellings. Will we remember the real purpose of this Holiday Season, the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? Will we stop to ponder about that baby in the manger and how His life and death has brought meaning to our lives? His life was an example of the way we are to live. He loved us so very much that He was obedient to the end, even unto death on a cross.

We seem to get so caught up in the materialistic outlook of life we lose touch with the most important gift we have to give, not only at Christmas, but every day of our lives. That gift is the gift of love. Not love as the world knows it, but as Jesus Christ lived it. Instead of, or in addition to, decorating the outside of our dwellings, we should decorate the inside of our “temples”. We should take Christmas out of our pocketbooks and put it back in our hearts!

Reach out and help that one person others may look at as repulsive. Maybe before the economy took the dive it did that person was a corporate CEO. Take a minute and ask yourself, “Are you sharing the true meaning of Christmas?”

I wish your and your family a blessed Christmas,

Judy

Category: Christian, family, holidays, Inspirational | Tags: Christmas, family, gift of love, gifts, Jesus, true meaning of Christmas | Leave a Comment

Your Past Goodbyes Can Add Meaning to Your Future Hellos!

Author: Judy Conway

•

We all have been faced with having to say goodbye. Saying goodbye usually produces great heartache. I hope this post will help you reflect on your past goodbyes and help them add meaning to your future hellos.

I was born in Nyack, New York. I only lived there for approximately 6 weeks. My dad was an operating engineer for Esso, working in Aruba. So I spent the first 5 years of my life living on the “non-tourist” end of the island. When we left for another job assignment I can remember saying goodbye to all my friends. I especially remember saying goodbye to Billy, the black goat in our Kindergarten class!

As we grow older our goodbyes get harder. With the nature of my dad’s employment I spent 17 years of my life traveling worldwide. I attended many schools, and said goodbye to many friends. Looking back, it was an education in itself being able to travel worldwide, but it also meant that I missed out on the normal growing up functions of life. Longtime childhood friends, school activities, such as a prom, and your high school friendships rank on the top of the list. I became a pro at saying “goodbye.” I truly believe that leaving so many friends is the reason I place such importance on relationships.

I recently received a notice about the death of one of my high school classmates. He had lost his battle with cancer. This prompted me to reflect on my life and thus wanting to share my feelings with others.

Goodbyes are an integral part of our lives. We all go through changing jobs and saying goodbye to people we have worked with and grown close to. My relationships with people are very important to me. I can remember one job in particular. I worked for SMRT, Inc. in Portland, Maine. On my last day I managed to sob my way around 42 desks saying goodbye. These people still hold a warm place in my heart. This was my most gratifying, favorite job, other than being a mom!

Being a mom of two girls who loved animals, as do I, I have said many goodbyes to parakeets, dogs, cats, fish, rabbits and the list goes on. I am one of those people who gets extremely attached to a pet so these were hard times. I had a dog, Benson, I got as a puppy right after I was divorced who was a true, loyal friend. He was always there to listen to the hard times I was going through. After twelve years he became very ill, lost control of his bodily functions and was going blind. I could not see him suffer any more so I had to have him put to sleep. That was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I still to this day get teary-eyed when I think of him and that was 18 years ago.

It is a devastating goodbye that we say to our parents when they die. When our close friends pass away it is very hard. I feel when we lose these people we suffer more from our loss. These special people have gone on to a better place!

Two more hard goodbyes to express are those at the time of a divorce (or an intimate relationship), and also when your children grow up and get married and you say your goodbyes and wish them well in their new lives. That is a bitter sweet goodbye because as parents it is our goal to raise our children to be independent and be able to leave home to start on their own journey.

Yes goodbyes are difficult. Hopefully, we learn something from each one of these losses (or changes in our lives). As with my dad, he was the one who truly taught me the meaning of love. I lost him when I was only 22 years old. That left an enormous void in my life. He never got to see, know and impart his wisdom to my children. These losses have helped me grow stronger in my life.

Because of my goodbyes I look at the new people that come into my life in a whole new light. I wonder why I have met them, what I can learn from them, and how can I make a difference in their lives? I always ask, “Why has God brought this person to me?” when I meet someone new. Nothing happens by accident. I look forward to where this new relationship will take me. I want to add value to the time spent with people in my life. I want to leave a loving legacy behind me. I do not want to live my life thinking about what I could have, would have or should have done!

Life goes by much too quickly. Never miss the opportunity to tell someone how much you care for them. Never miss the opportunity to help another person. Live your life making a difference in other people’s lives. Remember to live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and leave the rest to God.

I wish you a life full of opportunities to share your love with others!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://beadazzledejewelrycreations.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

Category: Children, Christian, family, home, Inspirational, Uncategorized | Tags: animals, death, divorce, family, home, Inc, Intimate relationship, Judy Conway, legacy, love, opportunities, Saying goodbye, Skype, SMRT | Leave a Comment

Remember Your Mother on Mother’s Day!

Author: Judy Conway

•

: Image via Wikipedia

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching. I hope that you will take the opportunity to remember your mother on Mother’s Day for all that she has done.

This year it is observed on May 9th. I would like to offer some recognition to mothers and state some facts about how Mother’s Day was started.

Mother’s Day is celebrated to express our appreciation for our mothers. Although it falls on a different day each year, it is always on the second Sunday of May.
Research shows that the Greeks were the first to celebrate Mother’s Day. With the spread of Christianity throughout Europe it became a celebration to honor the “Mother Church”. Then England in the 1600’s started celebrating “Mothering Sunday” on the fourth Sunday of lent to honor mothers in England.

In 1872 the United States, through the devotion of Julia Ward Howe began celebrating a day honoring peace and motherhood. The idea did not catch on until 1907 with a campaign by Anna Jarvis for national Mother’s Day. Unlike the endeavors by Julia Ward Howe this was now celebrated in almost every state. In 1914 there was a Presidential Proclamation by Woodrow Wilson stating that the second Sunday in May would be celebrated as Mother’s Day.

Originally Mother’s Day was spent going to church and writing letters expressing sentiments to mothers. Throughout the years this has evolved to include cards, presents, flowers and dinner. Mother’s Day now ranks as the second highest gift-giving holiday in the United States. Many restaurants have their busiest day on Mother’s Day. Many cards and e-cards are sent. In addition it is the busiest day for long distance calls. Sons and daughters take this opportunity to call and express their love and gratitude to their mothers.

On this day other countries, such as Denmark, Belgium, Australia, Turkey, Italy and Finland, also celebrate Mother’s Day. Other countries honor their mothers but do so on different dates.

A quote by Anna Jarvis, “Mother’s Day is in honor of the best Mother who ever lived – the Mother of your Heart.”

Mothers (and mothers-in-law) have various meanings to us all and are the basics of many jokes. No matter how good, bad, loving or not so attentive you think of your mother we do owe much to our mothers for bringing us into this world. We would not be who we are without our mothers.

Think of all a mother does. She sits by your bedside when you are sick. She is always there to listen to your problems, share in your excitement, teach you good manners, keeps your clothes clean and ready to wear. The list goes on and on. I was a single mother and I know personally there were many days there were not enough hours in the day to get all I had to do accomplished. My two daughters were the glue that held my life together. I was truly honored to be their mother.

I would like to share a story I came across many years ago. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

“The Meanest Mother”

I had the meanest mother in the whole world. While other kids ate
candy for breakfast, I had to have cereal, eggs or toast. When others
had cokes and candy for lunch, I had to eat a sandwich. As you can
guess, my supper was different than the other kids’ also.
But at least, I wasn’t alone in my sufferings. My sister and two
brothers had the same mean mother as I did.
My mother insisted upon knowing where we were at all times. You’d
think we were on a chain gang. She had to know who our friends were and
where we were going. She insisted if we said we’d be gone an hour, that
we be gone one hour or less–not one hour and one minute. I am nearly
ashamed to admit it, but she actually struck us. Not once, but each
time we had a mind of our own and did as we pleased. That poor belt was
used more on our seats than it was to hold up Daddy’s pants. Can you
imagine someone actually hitting a child just because he disobeyed? Now
you can begin to see how mean she really was.
We had to wear clean clothes and take a bath. The other kids always
wore their clothes for days. We reached the height of insults because
she made our clothes herself, just to save money. Why, oh why, did we
have to have a mother who made us feel different from our friends?
The worst is yet to come. We had to be in bed by nine each night
and up at eight the next morning. We couldn’t sleep till noon like our
friends. So while they slept-my mother actually had the nerve to break
the child-labor law. She made us work. We had to wash dishes, make
beds, learn to cook and all sorts of cruel things. I believe she laid
awake at night thinking up mean things to do to us.
She always insisted upon us telling the truth, the whole truth and
nothing but the truth, even if it killed us and it nearly did.
By the time we were teen-agers, she was much wiser, and our life
became even more unbearable. None of this tooting the horn of a car for
us to come running. She embarrassed us to no end by making our dates
and friends come to the door to get us. If I spent the night with a
girlfriend, can you imagine she checked on me to see if I were really
there. I never had the chance to elope to Mexico. That is if I’d had a
boyfriend to elope with. I forgot to mention, while my friends were
dating at the mature age of 12 and 13, my old fashioned mother refused
to let me date until the age of 15 and 16. Fifteen, that is, if you
dated only to go to a school function. And that was maybe twice a year.

Through the years, things didn’t improve a bit. We could not lie
in bed, “sick” like our friends did, and miss school. If our friends
had a toe ache, a hang nail or serious ailment, they could stay home
from school. Our marks in school had to be up to par. Our friends’
report cards had beautiful colors on them, black for passing, red for
failing. My mother being as different as she was, would settle for
nothing less than ugly black marks.
As the years rolled by, first one and then the other of us was put
to shame. We were graduated from high school.   With our mother behind
us, talking, hitting and demanding respect, none of us was allowed the
pleasure of being a drop-out.
My mother was a complete failure as a mother. Out of four
children, a couple of us attained some higher education. None of us
have ever been arrested, divorced or beaten his mate.   Each of my
brothers served his time in the service of this country. And whom do we
have to blame for the terrible way we turned out? You’re right, our
mean mother. Look at the things we missed. We never got to march in a
protest parade, nor to take part in a riot, burn draft cards, and a
million and one other things that our friends did.
She forced us to grow up into God-fearing, educated, honest adults.
Using this as a background, I am trying to raise my three
children. I stand a little taller and I am filled with pride when my
children call me mean.
Because, you see, I thank God, He gave me the meanest   mother in
the whole world.

written by Bobbie Pingaro (1967)

In remembering my mother (she passed away in 1997) I do not remember someone who expressed great love or concern. Nonetheless, I remember her as my mother and thank her for all she did for me. Do not look at the negative things you remember or think of your mother or your growing up years. Take those things and turn them into positive aspects in your life. You can still embrace your mother with love. It is your choice how you want to deal with those memories. Because of my mother I have become the person I am. I value the importance of loving my children and grandchildren and finding beauty, excitement and blessings in every day of my life.

I hope that you will take the opportunity to reach out to your mother on Mother’s Day. There will, unfortunately, come a day when she will not feel your touch, nor will you feel her touch. Be sure to remember your mother on Mother’s Day!

I wish a very happy Mother’s Day to mothers everywhere. Thanks for all you do!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://joinjudyconway.com/bestdealsonline
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://joinjudyconway.com/digitalcameradeals
http://beadazzledjewelrycreations.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

Category: Children, Christian, family, holidays, home, Inspirational | Tags: Anna Jarvis, Children, England, family, grandchildren, holidays, home, Julia Ward Howe, mother, Mothering Sunday, Mothers Day, Parenting, The Meanest Mother, Woodrow Wilson | Leave a Comment

In the Absence of Money We Can Pray for Haiti!

Author: Judy Conway

•

: Image via Wikipedia

Primarily our blogging efforts are for creating traffic to our websites, sharing personal notes, and overall social activities. There are those times when I use mine to share what is on my heart. This is one of those times.

I know that the world is aware of the total devastation that the country of Haiti has suffered as a result of the recent earthquake. Without actually being there it is truly difficult to imagine what those people are feeling.

Just think what it would be like to all of a sudden have your world, your possessions (few as they are in Haiti), your children, your parents, family members, food, water, limbs, etc. ripped from under you. Just the thought of this horrific occurrence brings tears to my heart.

I realize that with our economy the way it is, some of us are having difficulty meeting our expenses and would find it hard to give for the relief cause for Haiti. I was in the grocery store the other day and they asked me if I wanted to “round up” my bill for the Haiti Relief program. I said yes, of course. I looked at the register screen and was sad to see it was only four cents. But even that meager amount, when coupled with other people’s four cents will add up and make a difference. I am retired and on social security and find it a challenge to make ends meet. This brought to my mind the story in the Bible of the widow’s mite. (Mark 12:41-44) God will honor your giving, no matter how small it may be. He knows what is in our hearts.

The Haitian people need everything. Perhaps a look in your closet will reveal clothes that you are no longer using. Maybe your children have grown out of some of their clothes. There are organizations that are collecting clothing items to send to Haiti. Whatever you can give, I know will be appreciated.

The enormous lack of all things in Haiti is something that has been going on for many years and will continue in the future. This earthquake has only intensified the situation. They will need our help for many months to come.

I personally know of people whose family members have been killed in this earthquake, while other family members are still among the missing.

If we have come to the bottom of our pockets and what we can financially contribute to Haiti there is still something that we can do. We can make intercessory prayer on behalf of these people. We can cry out to God for them to have the courage they need to go through these times, peace and understanding for the loses, especially for little children that have lost their parents and home and now find themselves living in the street with no food or water, and the list goes on. We can pray that God will provide people to make great sacrifices and go to Haiti to help. We need to keep all those people who have gone to Haiti to provide their services in our prayers as well. Whatever is on your heart can be given to God.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Please join with me in remembering Haiti in your prayers.

Blessings,

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com

Skype ID: judy.conway

Category: Children, Christian, Haiti, Inspirational, Prayer, Uncategorized | Tags: Business and Economy, Children, clothing, devastation, Earthquake, family, food, Haiti, intercessory prayer, pray, Religion and Spirituality, sacrific, water | Leave a Comment

Earn Money As a Freelance Photographer

Author: Judy Conway

•

Put your love of photography into action to earn money and help during this difficult financial time? The Sell Your Digital Photos guide will give you information on how to start your own freelance photography business.

All you really need to start this journey of making money selling your digital photos is a digital camera and internet access. The freelance photography market is exploding with the use of the internet.

Where do you see photographs? EVERYWHERE!! You can be part of this action. Sell Your Digital Photos will help you get started . You will learn everything you need to know about freelance photography. This guide provides you information to assist you in purchasing a digital camera, shows you how to take good photos, how to start selling stock photography, provides you with learning how to earn a residual income and so much more.

As for the most part you will be uploading your photos and selling them directly from the internet you will not need to purchase expensive printers of photography equipment.

This opportunity will allow you to work at home and make your own schedule. You will have flexibility and be able to spend quality time with your family. The economy and job market are forcing some stay at home moms back into the work force. This opportunity can alleviate this problem.

Imagine being able to travel combining your traveling with your freelance photography business. As a freelance photographer your life will neverbe dull or boring. You can turn your vacation photos into cash. Think of the possibilities that exist. Not to mention the tax deductions you will be able to take.

While on the subject of traveling, as a freelance photography you will not be tied down to one location. The world is your workplace. The world is your canvas and you can “paint” the picture you want to see!

This Sell Your Digital Photos guide will provide you with everything you need to know about this business opportunity. You will be provided with a list of over 30 of the best web sites where you can sell your photos and a list of more than 75 North American magazines that purchase photos from freelance photographers.

If this isn’t enough reason to check out this guide, you will also be given information on how you can earn even more money with assignment photography getting paid to take portrait photos and weddings.

There are beautiful sights all around us. It is exciting to share this beauty with others and what better way to do this and be able to earn a living too!

For more information Click Here.

I wish you a world full of beauty!

Blessings,

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com

Skype ID: judy.conway

Why Did You Not Lose Weight in 2009?

Author: Judy Conway

•

2009 is coming to an end. How many of us have met our weight loss resolutions? Why did you not lose weight in 2009? It is so very hard. I want to encourage you that you still have 52 more days to still chisel away at those pounds! Do not give up! Just keep your goal in sight.

I know that I am not about to give up. I might not have lost all the weight I had set forth to lose, but at least I have not gained. To me that is a plus. Even if you finish out the year having lost only 10 or so pounds, you have done well. Congratulations! It is a beginning for more weight loss in 2010.

I have been on a diet since I was 13 years old. I have lost myself time and time again. I did have one short spell in my life for about three or four years where I had lost about 70 pounds and had kept it off.

Alas, then came divorce, I became a single mom, had a hysterectomy and quit smoking. What was I ever thinking? Bit by bit those pounds crept back on. I have tried the same diets I have gone on in the past and lost weight. The only difference is they are not working any more.

I look at people around me on the same diet I am doing and they are losing and I am not losing an ounce. Why? It is so very frustrating. Have you ever been in that situation?

Recently I read an article in the First for Women magazine, their November 16^th, 2009 issue, entitled, “Always Craving Carbs?”. This article has confirmed to me what I have discovered lately.

You see, I have a Metabolism problem, and have even been diagnosed with insulin resistance. I have followed to the tee eating programs given to me by a nutritionist at my physician’s office. No progress whatsoever. I often feel that people are looking at me are thinking, “Yeah, right, she has got to be cheating on her program.” Trust me I am not. Lately, I discovered that carbohydrates are affecting me differently than they do other people.

This article deals with a book written by Diane Kress, R.D., titled, “The Metabolism Miracle”. She goes into detail about the fact that everyone is not a Metabolism A person. There are about 46% of us who fall into the alternative Metabolism B Category. This means that our bodies will not respond to the same diet program that a Metabolism A person’s body does. This is probably why the plan my nutritionist gave me did not work.

There are three steps to this program. I have just begun Step One which will last for eight weeks. This will be a low carb period to rest my overworked pancreas and liver while shrinking fat cells. During this period there should be a decrease in cholesterol (hurray), triglycerides (double hurray), blood sugar and blood pressure.

I am going to be devoted to this program for many reasons. Mainly, I do not want to live my life with deteriorating health conditions, increased medications and possibly insulin. Even as I write these words, it only confirms that this is a matter of life or death to me. I am 63 years old and have a lot more years I want to spend with my family and to be able to watch my grandchildren grow up and start their lives. I might be selfish, but I do not want to miss out on those times. My family is very important to me. It has been the glue that has held my life together.

Here are a few clues that you might have Metabolism B:

Midline fat
Diets that have worked in the past no longer produce results
Decreased calories, increased physical activity but no weight loss
Hypoglycemia
Mother with pre-diabetes and a sister with gestational diabetes
Craving for carbohydrates
Fatigue and mild depression

Of course, before you embark on this or any diet program, check with your doctor. At least get a full blood workup so you will be able to check you numbers and make a decision for yourself that this could be an answer to your weight problem.

I will be keeping you posted on my blog as to my progress. I have not had success with my physician’s guidance, or lack thereof, in losing weight. I do know that a lot of my symptoms are outlined in “The Metabolism Miracle” and I just cannot walk away from it without giving it a try.

I am also using Leslie Sansone’s, “Walk Away the Pounds Express” DVD which gives me a brisk two mile walk that amounts to thirty minutes of increased heart rate.

I am looking forward to welcoming 2010 on the road to better health. I will also have been able to lose weight in 2009! I am not going to be asking myself the same question this time next year, “Why did you not lose weight in 2010?” I hope that this has been helpful to you. Please feel free to comment and if you choose to try this program, let me know how you are doing. We can all encourage to one another.

Blessings,

Judy Conway

Skype ID: judy.conway

17 Ways to Save Money When You Travel!

Author: Judy Conway

•

As cool fall weather sets in, our thoughts turn the holidays. It is time to start planning to make travel arrangements to go home and be with loved ones. Now is the time to start planning so that we will be able to get the best deals out there.

With the economy the way it is and airline and travel expenses on the rise I would like to offer some assistance. To help you with your planning I would like to offer you a free report filled with cheap travel tips. Check out this Free Report from Globe Cheap. See how much you can save on your next getaway.

Whether you are dreaming of a winter skiing destination, or would rather escape to a warm paradise, these tips will help you save big on your next winter vacation.

1. Make a vacation budget and stick to it

How much can you afford, exactly? Find out now, or else have a plan to have a specific amount saved up by the time winter rolls in.

2. Plan well in advance

When it comes to budget travel, time is one of your most important tools. You need time to make advance reservations

and to research the best deals.

3. Shop around

Now is the time to go comparison shopping for travel options, accommodations, and major attractions.

4. Compare different modes of travel

Depending on where you would like to go, various means of traveling will have different costs. Also consider how many people are traveling. If you are a family, it’s usually cheaper to drive than to fly. If you’re traveling solo, you may have more options – including carpooling with friends or family.

5. Ask for discounts

Sometimes you just have to ask, to receive discounts. At the hotel or airline, for example, ask for free upgrades on your room or flight. Ask your credit card provider about travel options they offer to clients at reduced rates, such as travel insurance coverage, etc. Don’t forget to ask hotel/hostel owners and tour operators for discount coupons, such as to the nearest attractions.

6. Share a vacation rental

If you are traveling in a group, or can find family and friends to vacation with, sharing a rental house for a flat fee can be very economical.

7. Try a hostel

Hostels go for as as low as $20/night, so they’re a budget option you should consider.

8. Cook your own meals

Eating out can be very expensive. Stay in hotels or rentals where you can cook your own meals. Or pack your meals in a cooler, if you are traveling by car. Check out the hotels that offer a free breakfast. This is especially helpful when you are traveling with children. It is amazing how expensive just getting coffee can be and it adds up over a period of a week or two.

9. Get as many discounts as you can

If you are a student or traveling with a student, make sure to bring student ID cards or International Student Cards. This free report from Globe Cheap lists other discounts you or a family member may be eligible for. Also explore discount passes when buying online or by certain dates. If you are a Senior Citizen be sure to ask for your discount price.

10. Borrow equipment

If you are going skiing, bring your own or borrowed equipment rather than renting them at the resort. If you plan to go skiing often, it’s probably cheaper to buy our own equipment in the long run, instead of renting every time.

11. Explore discount packages

Hotels and travel agencies usually offer packages that include travel, accommodation, meals and entrance to various attractions. These usually cost less than if you paid for each one individually. They usually also offer discounts for early booking. One word of advice is to be sure to check out the cancellation policies.

12. Travel off-season

The peak season for traveling in winter is around Christmas and New Year. If you don’t mind traveling around those dates, you’ll find everything cheaper. It’s also usually cheaper to travel on weekdays or midweek rather than on weekends.

13. Consider warm-weather destinations

Looking to escape from the cold? Consider places where the US dollar goes farther, such as small Caribbean islands, Mexico, and parts of Central America and Asia. Some destinations within the United States are also cheaper in the cold season.

14. Don’t touch the minibar

Bring everything you need so you won’t have to open the water bottle in the hotel, or get snacks from the minibar. You’ll pay ridiculous prices for these! Some hotels also charge extra if you request additional towels and toothbrushes. If you must, buy extra supplies at the nearest grocery store, not from the hotel. And don’t forget to pack those over-the-counter medications you usually use! It is amazing what a package of aspirins costs in a vending machine.

15. Stay off the beaten path

Consider staying a little farther from major attractions. You will save tons on accommodations – as long as you will not be paying through the nose for public transportation or parking.

16. Camp out

If you’re going to a warm destination, plan to go camping. It’s a very cheap traveling alternative. If you’re driving, find the cheapest places to get gas.

17. Look for free attractions

Entrance fees to tourist attractions can also add up very quickly. Do some research to find free attractions at your destination. These could include malls, national parks and historic streets or towns. Find out when museums are open to the public for free.

More Cheap Travel Tips

You can get even more FREE tips for budget traveling from Globe Cheap’s Free Report. Grab it and see how much you can save from your next winter getaway.

I hope that this information has been helpful and that you will take this opportunity to obtain Globe Cheap’s Free Report. I wish you all a very safe trip wherever you may travel.

Blessings,

Judy Conway

Tips for Grandparents in Online Business Internet Marketing

Author: Judy Conway

•

I know there are times when it seems like whatever we are doing is not reaping the rewards that we anticipated in online business internet marketing. It would not matter if you were a grandparent or not, we nonetheless find ourselves wondering what we are doing wrong. I am here to say…you are not alone!!

One of the most important things that I have found is to make sure you are involved with like-minded people. That makes a big difference. I have been blessed to be part of a group of extremely helpful online marketing business entrepeneurs. I have learned much and continue to learn on a daily basis. If we reach the point where we think we “know it all” we might as well give up. There are always new techniques and programs to be learned.

It is nice to realize that even at 63 and being a grandparent involved in a home based internet marketing business opportunity I can learn how to be a valuable team player. It is self gratifying that I can contribute to other people’s success. That is what makes team work so invaluable. We really all do have our own gifts to contribute to help one another. I love the pay it forward philosophy.

It goes without saying that you need to do your due diligence to be sure that the company you are anticipating working with is all that it says it is. As we all know, either by personal experience, or by what others have told us, there are a lot of scams on the internet.

Get involved with a business opportunity that has a product that is desired by the masses. It is most difficult to get others involved in something they have no need of.

I have recently gotten involved in a business opportunity that is environment friendly, helps with weight loss and overall health and also provides chemically free household products. Ultra International’s Pure Selects collection of Home Care and Personal Care Products are some of the highest quality and safest products on the market today. I recently heard that during the time of our last election 100 mothers were surveyed as to whether if they knew the products they were using for household cleaning, or personal cleanliness contained harmful ingredients to their family if they would change what they were buying. 94% said they would. To me that is a no brainer. Who would willingly put their children, or family in general, in harm’s way if they knew what they were doing was harmful. I quit smoking, cold turkey, because I didn’t want to think I was harming my children’s lives. And I smoked three packages a day!!

The point I am trying to make is after the company checks out, make sure the products check out. And last, but certainly not least, investigate the compensation plan.

If you are comfortable with your findings, then roll up your sleeves and get to work.

If I can do this, I am sure you can. There are awesome tools and individuals involved in internet marketing that are more than happy to help you find success. Be weary of individuals that are going to charge you an arm or a leg and ask you to mortgage your first born. For those individuals I have one word ….RUN!!

When the going gets rough it helps me to remember that I am working at MY home based business opportunity. I can at any moment, put what I am doing on hold and go play with my grandchildren. That is invaluable to me. My family is most important to me. Being involved in an internet marketing business allows me to enjoy my Golden Years. I only wish that I had the opportunity to do what I am doing now when my children were young. I could have been at home baking cookies when they came home from school.

I truly wish you all the best in whatever you choose to do.

Judy Conway

judyconway@windstream.net
Skype ID: judy.conway
Ultra International

Where will 2009 lead you?

Author: Judy Conway

•

Here we are blessed with another year. The question is are we truly going to end 2009 feeling that we have accomplished what we set out to do and have we been a blessing to others. I have found that when I help others and put them first I find myself on the receiving end more times than not.

In looking back at 2008 my saddest recollections were that I had not taken the one or two moments out of my busy schedule to go have a “that lunch” with a dear friend, or pursue insisting that I be able to visit another dear friend in the hospital. Both of those treasured friends are gone. I do hope they know that I truly loved them. I no longer pass up an opportunity to let people in my life know that I love them. Hold your family and friends close to your heart.

I am one of those people who set out with a determination to lose weight in the new year. When December 31st arrives I usually find myself wondering what went wrong. The excess pounds are still lingering! I must admit, it was I who went wrong. I didn’t set realistic goals and work the plan. I am so very excited this year to be part of a group of individuals in the Crazy Foxes Marketing Group. We are going to become the Crazy Foxes Biggest Losers! We will encourage each other and that makes a big difference. We have established a blog sharing recipes, tools and tips.

The Biggest Loser program on TV is a great inspiration to me. The segment that just aired in January, 2009 especially hit me hard. If a person is overweight and does nothing about it they will not only encounter painful health problems, live a lesser quality of life, be unable to enjoy activities with their family, but they also face the possibility of not living to be part of their family’s milestones. A parent not at a wedding, or a grandparent missing the blessings of watching their grandchildren grow. That gives me new determination.

If the Crazy Foxes can encourage you, or help you in any way, please let me know. This is the year that we can get healthy. Remember it is not a “diet”. It is a lifestyle change. One of my favorite sayings this year is, “It isn’t what you do between Christmas and New Years, but what you do between New Years and Christmas. That applies not only to your health but also your other goals.

With regard to your success in your business, what are your goals? No goals set usually leads to nothing achieved. You need to plan your work and work your plan. As with weight loss, if you haven’t put in writing where you want to go and what you want to achieve this year, there is a good chance you will end up on December 31st thinking, “What have I actually accomplished this year.” I have done that and for that reason I know how important it is to put your goals and plans into writing. Post it where you see it every day. As you accomplish your goals along the way it will serve as an encouragement.

In setting goals be realistic. After you have decided what you are going to accomplish this year break those goals down into semi-annual and quarterly increments. Take that one step further and break those down into monthly and weekly goals. This way it will not be so overwhelming to achieve.

There are so many dynamic social networking services out there. It doesn’t matter if you are involved with internet marketing or the corporate work place. I recently was introduced to Twitter. There is a plethora of tips, tools, relationships, and just downright great communication on Twitter. It is awesome to feel the attitude of helpfulness amongst the members. You will be able to expand your knowledge on many issues. It is another tool on the internet that makes the world a much smaller place! It is a good feeling too when you come across a person who is in need and reach out to help.

So as 2009 proceeds I wish you much success, “Aha “moments of joy, heartwarming experiences with your family and friends, and the knowledge that you are truly loved by friends, family and God. Be sure to share your love with others (even strangers that pass through your life).

Blessings,

Judy

Judy Conway

Crazy Foxes Marketing Group

Category: Children, Christian, Helpful Hints, home, Home Business, Inspirational | Tags: 2009, Biggest Loser, blog, Crazy Foxes, Crazy Foxes Marketing Group, family, friends, goals, grandchildren, grandparent, health, health problems, hospital, inspiration, Judy Conway, lifestyle, love, lunch, milestones, new year, opportunities, overweight, recipes, recollections, relationships, social networking, tips, tools, Twitter, weight, weight loss, writing | Leave a Comment