Irene's Inspirations!

Home Becomes "The Neighborhood Crown Jewel!"

2008-07-16T20:37:23Z

Throughout my life I have been passionate about Color! It has been fascinating to see how people react to color so differently. It can sometimes give us energy or deplete us of our energy. Color is so powerful!

One Day Redesigns offers homeowners personalized Certified Dewey Color Consultations. It is one of my favorite things that I do. It is very rewarding to make such an impact on homeowners with dramatic Color changes!

Recently, I was asked to speak for PERSI, the Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho. A week later, one of their employees called me about doing an Exterior Color Consultation for her home. She said she was unable to attend my presentation, but heard rave reviews from her co-workers.

They planned on using a new vinyl coating technique on the exterior of their home because it would last a lifetime. It was critical to make the correct color choice because of the cost and longevity of this treatment. She and her husband were afraid of making a costly color mistake.

When I met them for the first time at their Color Consultation, I asked them how long they had been struggling with this color challenge. They said "S i x L o n g M o n t h s !" They told me they were empty-nesters, always helping everyone else and this was the first time they were able to work on their own home. I told them I understood because throughout my life I was used to taking care of everyone else's needs before my own. We laughed at how long it takes people like us to do something for ourselves.

They were very excited to have their We Make Color Easy personality test to determine their new exterior colors for their home. We discovered they both liked the golden warmer tones according to their results. They were very eager to get started on their update!

Their home was vinyl coated with their new color palette. It started a whole new revolution of changes for their home. The overgrown landscaping was replaced with trees, shrubs and flowers to match their new warmer colors. They also installed an outdoor kitchen, in their backyard, for entertaining their friends and families.

Their home is now the "Crown Jewel" of the neighborhood. They have told us that people come by frequently to see their home in this quiet neighborhood. They just love how much their home and life has improved!

What do you think about their update and new Colors?

An Idahoan's View of Downtown Denver, CO!

2008-07-15T20:36:34Z

We recently visited Denver, CO and saw parts of the city. We had only flown through Denver, but we wanted to take some time to see the city even. As Realtors, Home Stagers and professionals it is good to make time to visit a city for at least one extra day even though you may go for business. I am always intrigued on the various architecture and the downtown of cities we visit.

From my viewpoint, Denver looked pretty progressive and mixed the old and new architecture in a very unique way. I had never seen such variety in the city building architecture like Denver, CO! We saw a big Blue Bear sculpture that kept trying to get into the Denver Convention Center, but nobody let him in!

We also saw the Denver Art Museum and had never seen such an angled varied building that overhung on the streets of downtown. It was a very unique angled building inside and outside. How did they do that? It was a treat to see "The Impressionist" series that was being displayed. Some of my favoirte artists like Monet and Renoir were featured. Talk about knowing and using color to depict moods and feeling through their various art pieces. It is true what they say, nothing like seeing it in person! Wow! I enjoyed studying the Impressionist era in college but it was very interesting and delightful to the senses up close and personal!

If you ever get a chance to visit a unique city, you need to go to Denver, CO! It made me want to take go back and have more time to really explore the city. It looked so interesting and intriguing! From my view it is in the center of the United States and will be an interesting and stimulating city to view.

A Special Honor to our Business Associate, Technical Wizard and Son!

2008-07-13T16:31:48Z

I think it is important to remember to thank those that assist you and help you in your business. It is important to say thank you! I would like to honor our amazing and technically gifted son and business associate, Chris Woodworth. He once was asked what he did in our company and he said, "I make her shine!" That is correct. I am the big picture person and occasionally give my attention to details regarding technical things. However, he is the one that brings my desires and dreams to life! He has learned and figured things out mostly on his own.

My brother in law told me that he helped our niece on her paper in college on the "Impact of the Internet." He said, "as Baby Boomers, we are like Immigrants coming to a new country when it comes to the computer and the Internet. Most young people under 30 years old are considered Natives of the computer and Internet land. Isn't that an amazing analogy?

I want to honor Chris today, because even though he assists both me and my husband in our various business and endeavors he is the one that helps to accomplish our goals. He has the patience of a saint. Thank goodness! He gets a kick out of me trying to explain something to him in a creative manner and not in a technical manner. He makes me slow down and he now repeats to me what he thinks I want him to do. I forget he cannot read my mind! However he is good to get me to slow down. We get to laugh at my foibles and my confusion on how technical things sometime work. He also monitors how much I work and has me take consistent breaks. I am learning the importance of self care. I am slowly getting better. I get nervous thinking about all of his technical stuff he does for us. I have learned to delegate and then walk away and let him do his thing. It works so much better that way. Of course this helps to keep my sanity!

So, here's to you Chris: "Thank you, thank you, and thank you! Words seem a little empty as I try to explain to you how much richer, fuller and interesting our lives have truly been been since you entered our lives over twelve years ago. It has been an honor to be your newly adopted Mom, Boss and Friend. You are simply amazing and so very intelligent! I think you are one of the most brilliant and kind people I know for your age. You have grown so much since we first met. I can see that you have not even reached your amazing potential, and I know you are going to be great. Thank you again for being you! You are absolutely Awesome!

An Outstanding Leader Reveals How to Be An Effective Leader!

2008-07-13T11:06:47Z

This post is dedicated to Gary Woltal from Texas, one of my greatest encouragers, here on the Active Rain Community! He was impressed with our upcoming speaker for our 2008 NAWBO July Meeting here in Boise, Idaho. He asked me to give a report so this is what I learned from our recent meeting.

We were honored this week to have Dr. Cheryl Schrader, the Dean of College of Engineering at Boise State University at our Monthly NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners) Meeting. It was our yearly installation of our 2008 Board for the Boise Area and Southwest Idaho Chapter.

I have been involved with this group for over three and a half years and I enjoy it because there is something I learn every time I attend. It is also very enriching to meet a variety of women business owners and staff at these events. It was intriguing for me to get to know Dr. Schrader personally, since I was going to introduce her to our group. It was my first assignment as the new Program Chair for our Chapter. It was time to serve in our leadership with our local NAWBO chapter.

Did you know that Boise State University College of Engineering is number two in the nation for the most women faculty in this College of Engineering? This means that 25% of their faculty is women. This is one of the largest in the nation. This has mostly been a predominantly male field. Did you know that 85% of the graduates from the College of Engineers stay in the state of Idaho to either continue their education or to serve the state in some type of engineering capacity?

Dr. Schrader was a very curious child and has traveled to all fifty states and abroad. She has tried to bring some type of plant or flower from her travels to her garden in Idaho. One of her hobbies is gardening and has learned many lessons in her life through gardening. She used the analogy of gardening that included the Planning, Preparation, and Pruning Phases in "How to be an Effective Leader!"

The Planning Phase: It is important to define your mission and values in what you want to accomplish. It is important to involve others and it takes time. You have to see your challenges and define your mission. She became an engineer because she wanted to make a difference in the quality of our lives. It is important to involve others and learn about them, what is important to them and inform them of your goals and develop leadership for yourself and your various styles in leadership that are the best for you.

As in a garden you have to study, research and plan what you want and what will be different about your garden. The same is true with leadership. You need to define your mission and values. What do you want and like. What will set you apart?

Set your boundaries. It is important to not let 10% of the people take 90% of your time.

You cannot be afraid of making decisions. If you are 40% to 90% sure of a decision then do it and go forward. You will never be 100% sure it is the right decision. It is too easy to stay in the valley of indecision and waste precious time. Sometimes indecision can be more harmful to your business and organization than simply making a decision.

Do not be afraid to take on a leadership role in your community, business or organizations. It will give you credibility and it is a wonderful opportunity to develop those leadership skills.

The Planting Phase: You need to invest in people! It is important to slow down and help others. It is important to communicate with others and see how you can build a life that will make things easier and better for others.

Did you know that 80% of Lexus SUV owners are women? It is because they were ergonomically designed more for women. Most women cannot reach a hatchback and close it down. So they put in a special lever that is easier to reach and use to open and close the hatchback.

Did you know that a women Artist redesigned and engineered the Women's Bicycle? It was redesigned to fit our unique bodies and help women enjoy riding a bike instead of riding a man's bike.

We need more role models and Mentors in our lives. Dr. Schrader was influenced by one of her professors in college. She never thought of entering the world of academia until one of her professors asked her to consider going into the field of engineering and academics. She was amazed that one thought and seed changed the course of her life.

As women we are influencers with our children, grandchildren. We need to set good examples. There is a nationwide urgency to have more diversity of women in the engineering profession. One thing that makes a great engineer is they asked lost questions and are very curious. So consider this trait and encourage any women that you know that maybe their future can be in engineering.

I keep thinking about something she said: "Engineers bring dreams to life!" Isn't that a great statement!

The Pruning Phase: This is a necessary phase although most of us do not like this phase. As in a garden like my rose garden, there is a season of pruning that takes place. If I do not prune those roses they simply do not grow. Pruning means "to lift up." When you prune and take all of the dead shooters or overgrowth then you can experience new life and growth and sometimes more than you ever expected. Sometimes you just need to look at your life and business and see what service or aspect is not producing the best for you and your business? It is important to do this phase and realize that in order to have growth this is a vital part of life.

One of the greatest things I enjoyed in meeting Dr. Schrader when I asked her what her most interesting thing about her position of the Dean of the College of Engineering. She said that her voice and influence is sought after from the various leaders in our government. They want to know what her input for the future of developing Boise and our local communities. Her voice and opinion matter and she is getting the desires of her heart. She has become an influencer and is making a difference in the lives of others and improving the quality of life.

Dr. Schrader was a very down to earth woman that understood women and could truly relate to us. That was refreshing! I did not know how much of her presentation I would understand since I am more of a creative type personality instead of a technical type like engineers can sometimes be. I was wonderfully enriched by meeting her and listening to her presentation. No matter what profession you are in, some of these points and tips can help you to become an "Effective Leader" for your business and your life!

Have a Colorful Day!

A Significant Once in a Lifetime Birthday!

2008-07-08T13:25:39Z

Today is a special day for me. I was born on July 8, 1954. That is exactly 54 years ago today! I have been intrigued and inspired by the numbers of 1954 and being 54 today. I started thinking about it and realized it will only happen once in my lifetime. I don't know if you noticed when your birth year and actual years matched or not. Have you experienced this yet? However, for some reason I think it is special and I thought about my life and my future this year. For some reason I feel it is going to be a significant year for me, my family, and my business.

Growing up it used to bother me that I had a birthday in the summer time when all of my friends were out of town, on vacation or not around to celebrate with me on my summer birthday. I thought it was fun and pretty neat when my friends had a birthday party during the school year to celebrate with all the kids in our classroom. But, I have never been typical or average or had a typical life. I did not realize that I have truly had some significant people and experiences happen to me in my life. One of my friends told me that she could not see me have an average life. I have loved adventure and variety. Some people are comfortable with the same old thing. Not me, I like change and variety. I have been told by many that they love my enthusiasm and passion for life. I remember what my Mom used to tell us. "Don't walk around like dead people, enjoy life and let that joy and enthusiasm spill over to those around you. Enjoy each moment and relish that it is a gift for you and for others."

Although as I get older I like more stability sprinkled with fun and variety. Why do I share this with our Active Rain Community? Because, I desire to have some of the biggest breakthroughs in every area of my life, my business and overcome some of the biggest challenges I have ever faced this year. I know the economy is down right now, but instead of doom and gloom, I choose faith and life! You see I have the most amazing business partner, who is God. Without him, I cannot do a thing. My extra dose of creativity and strength definitely are gifts from Him.

I was the unexpected child to a very young teenage couple that came from very humble beginnings. Had they experienced some of the wonderful opportunities I had, I know they could have really done some incredible things. You see my Dad had to drop out of high school and to work since his older brother went to the Korean War to help support his immediate family. Later, he became a truck driver and made a decent living. He did not have a glamorous life. My handicapped mother worked very hard sometimes two and three jobs at a time to provide for us. They may not have been perfect but they certainly tried their best. They taught me that it was important to do my best no matter what my brothers and I did. My mother told me all of the time, "You can be and do anything!" Guess what? I believed her. I experienced several different types of jobs. (However Interior Redesigns have always been part of my life.) She reminded me to do everything I did like someone cared. She would also say, "Make an impression by going the extra mile. Don't just throw things together. Look and see how you can make it better. Put your heart into everything you do!" So I did. If you read my previous post of "Are You A Graduate of Hard Knocks University?" you will understand where I came from, what challenges I have faced and what I have learned.

I think as we get older, we do get wiser and learn from our life lessons and experiences. I used to hear life began at 40. But for me life began at 50. I read in a NAWBO SmartBrief once that when women go through a midlife crisis, they usually don't have an affair or have to buy that Red Sports Car. Women usually finally go after their lifetime dream and start a new career! That is what I did in creating my own business of One Day Redesigns and now The Color and Redesign Institute here in Boise, Idaho. Statistics confirm that more than ever before women are starting new businesses across the country. It was also verified in various figures through the Small Business Administration.

I have been truly blessed with a remarkable husband, Dan. Our adopted son has also been a wonderful and unexpected gift for us, too! They shower me with love and encouragement all of the time. Some days I just feel like a millionaire. Money can come and go, but you cannot put a price tag on those blessings and gifts!

So my birthday wish for you today, is that whether you are a woman or a man, that you would breakthrough in your business, your life and your relationships this year. May you have a significant, special and rewarding year. You see when I write my posts here on Active Rain, my hope is that my words will bring someone a word of encouragement, hope and definitely inspiration! I have been told all my life by my teachers, supervisors, elders and family members that I had a gift to bring motivation and inspiration to others. I want to live up to my calling and gifting. We can do it. Not alone, but together! That thought brings me great joy!

May you have a Colorful Day!

"Lady Liberty - Let's Roll!"

2008-07-02T15:11:10Z

I was recently inspired and would like to applaud, a visionary business women, Irene Deely. She is a visionary metal artist, the owner of Women of Steel Gallery in Garden City, ID. She is endeavoring to do a "first" for her business and for Americans across the country. Recently, at our June NAWBO meeting, Deely shared with us that she and four other women friends will be traveling across the country with her oversized Statue of Liberty metal sculpture mounted on a flat bed truck. It is called "Lady Liberty: Let's Roll." It depicts the Statue of Liberty with a leg thrust out in a kick-boxing stance. Despite the perception of welding as a typically masculine endeavor, Deely says, "I think that gender is irrelevant."

This creative journey will be announced at the Boise Hawks Baseball Stadium during the Fourth of July Celebration in Garden City. They will later be escorted out of the city and begin their American journey to New York City. They hope to encourage people all along the way to kick through life by overcoming their fears, personal barriers and to continue to keep our freedom as Americans. "Lady Liberty not only represents the unique American value that offers freedom, but is poised like him to swallow their fears and defend those who are not able, Irene Deely, Woman of Steel stated. Many of Deely's pieces, as well as her artistic statement, are available for viewing on her Web site, www.womanofsteelgallery.com

I say, "Not to fear, but persevere!" I would like to applaud her and her team from Garden City, Idaho for taking on this huge endeavor as they encourage us all to be like Lady Liberty and Let's Roll!

It is good to pause and reflect about the blessings we do have in our country. I hear people complain all of the time about how bad our country is today. Well, no matter what the economy is like, or other challenges we have, we still live in the richest country in the world.

As I think about our upcoming Fourth of July, A holiday of freedom and liberty, we need to be thankful and appreciate all of the sacrifices our forefathers and our military have made on our behalf. We need to realize that because of the sacrifice that others before us, that we can live in the richest county as Americans. We have so much to be grateful and thankful for today!

May you have a blessed and safe "Fourth of July" with your family and friends. Remeber to Celebrate our Freedom!

Join Us - Being an Effective Leader- NAWBO Boise Chapter next Tuesday!

2008-07-02T13:05:55Z

BEING AN EFFECTIVE LEADER - NAWBO - BASIC* July Meeting

Are you a Women Business Owner, Manager or Lead Team Staff person? Would you like to learn what it takes to be an Effective Leader? We would like to extend a Special Invitation to you for our upcoming NAWBO BASIC* Meeting.

Our distinguished speaker, Cheryl Schrader, Dean of the College of Engineering at Boise State, & learn more about being an effective leader!

*(National Association of Women Business Owners Boise And Southern Idaho Chapter) .

We are also wrapping up the 2007-2008 year and have the installation of the new officers and an awards ceremony to recognize those individuals who contributed to making NAWBO a success this past year. We are ready to install and introduce the new officers at the event.

NAWBO Board of Directors Installation

Here are your new 2008-2009 NAWBO executive board members:

President - Martha Sandifer
President Elect - Linda Sue Shelton
Secretary - Rebecca Standerfer
Treasurer - Terry Farnes

When: Tuesday, July 8th at 5:30 - 7:30pm
Where: The Visual Arts Collective
(Behind the Women of Steel Gallery on Chinden)
3638 Osage St. in Garden City

Click here to register online at: http://www.nawboboise.org/07-08_reservation.htm

You are invited to take a Refreshing Walk near the Boise River!

2008-06-30T17:23:09Z

I thought it would be a great idea to take some pictures on our family week around our beautiful neighborhood. Thankfulness and gratitude swell in our hearts as we take this family walk. Walking is a great time to catch up with uninterrupted family talk, questions and good old fashioned fun. Of course the side benefit is also getting healthier with each walk we take.

The story of our house was such a miraculous event that I never tire of walking up with thankfulness for our home and the beautiful neighborhood we live in. I looked at 150 homes before we found this one. Since, both my father-in-law and mother-in-law had died we needed a home with a formal dining room to fit out nice large formal dining room seating eight. We also would be doing some of the hosting of our yearly family gatherings. Our Realtor, Mark, showed us about 12 homes and I kept looking either on the Internet or in person, open houses for about six weeks. I knew there was one out there that would fit our needs. We were used to living in the older, historic North end or Eastern part of Boise. Unfortunately, most of those were either too small or way out of our price range. I knew there would be one sooner or later that would fit our family's needs and style.

There was one Open House advertised in the local paper on Friday and Saturday. It stood out to us since the amenities were just like we wanted and desired. When we first met with our Realtor he asked for our dream wish list there were only maybe a couple things that this particular home did not have. Although, it was located in the more western part of town than we were used to living, we thought we would consider it since it had most of the features we wanted and needed. There was only one Open House on a Sunday afternoon from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. We got there just a few minutes before and the house was already packed. This was unbelievable! The first thing I noticed when we walked in was the formal dining room right off the entry way. Wow! My husband was excited about the four car garage! There was an open plan with a "Great Room" in the middle and the bedrooms on each side of it, like a Jack and Jill plan. There was even an office that I could use for our business. Very cool. We were ready for a single level since we already experienced living in a newer two story house and thought we did not need that anymore since we are getting older. A little over 2100 square feet was just the right size for us.

The neighborhood seemed nice and we had no idea that this area was so very special, green and amazing walking trails interspersed with manmade ponds and lots of trees. We went ahead and called our Realtor and put in an offer in this house. We call this our miracle house, because there were seven offers on this house and we had the first right of refusal. We were informed that they were considering having a "bidding war." We were not interested in doing that. If the house was meant to be ours it would work out, we were not going to fight over it. Long story short we got the house and moved in about three weeks later. We were not even aware of the amazing neighborhood we lived in until we started exploring and taking our walks. few people have asked me to take some pictures and share them with you.

I wanted to share them with you today. May you be refreshed as much as we are each time we take our walk in our beautiful neighborhood! The last picture on the right is my favorite spot that I just take a pause, take in a deep breahe and stop to enjoy the beauty of this pond. Enjoy!!!

What kind of bird songs do you sing?

2008-06-27T23:50:18Z

We have a new set of evening song birds playing their nightly concert. Perhaps this bird is a night owl, but it sounds just like a day bird, whatever that may be called. My husband just arrived into town and I figure if this "City Girl" has a question about nature, she just asks her husband, Dan about it. Especially, since he has an undergraduate degree in Wildlife Fisheries Resources. He listened and he said that is probably a "Dickie Bird". Well, of course, why didn't I know that? I thought maybe the bird was a dysfunctional bird or maybe he got his days and nights mixed up.

I never forget the story of his professor at the University of Idaho that taught Ornithology. That is the study of birds. This professor would get very upset and frustrated when the students could not identify the hundreds of birds that were on the school campus. He had spent his lifetime studying birds of all things! Wow, can you imagine that? Can you imagine trying to distinguish bird sounds. Some may not be that difficult but there are hundreds of different species of birds out there. Especially in our neighborhood with all of our trees, streams, walking trails and living near the Boise River just a few blocks away.

Isn't it amazing how unique and so many personalities there are in our world? Not one of us is alike, whatsoever! Sure, we may have some similarities and likes. However, it is important to remember that each of our clients are unique and have their own style, personality and likes and dislikes. Sometimes, we just need to take time and just ask and listen to the songs they sing. What gets them excited?

I teach and train a lot of students in a variety of Color, Decorating, Redesign, Staging and or Marketing Classes. It is interesting to me that some of my students appear to be bored. Then they will come up after wards and they will get so animated and just light up as they share something that they could really relate to or they really appreciated that I shared in class. You can not go by their expressions! Some people are more animated or sing louder songs like these birds. Or they seem to sing at the wrong time. I thought that my neighborhood birds were dysfunctional or something. I think it is funny. Then when one bird is done singing, there is another one that echoes and starts up across the street. I look and listen to nature now that I live in this area of Boise and Idaho. There are daily reminders to me that we are all different, sing different songs, at different times. We are all unique.

Next time you hear a bird sing, remember about our neighborhood "Dickie Birds" and realize we are just as unique as those birds. Have you sung any unusual songs lately? What about your clients? What kinds of songs are they singing? Are you listening, really listening to the songs they sing? If you are not connecting, maybe you can listen a little more and hear the songs that really make them happy?

Simple Soul Therapy with Colorful Flowers!

2008-06-27T21:01:24Z

Isn't it amazing how much some color and flowers will do in your yard or patio? I have been a "Lifetime Addict of Flowers" anyone that knows me will not argue about that fact about me. I have some perennials that grow in our yard every year like roses, lavender, peonies and tiger lilies and others that I do not know their formal names in our yard. However, we were missing some annuals with their very bright and cheery colors in our yard. Life has been hectic for us and we just had not had time to plant any this year. I know it is a little late in the season, but I just couldn't stand it anymore, we had to get some. My son got a wild hare to go to the store at night and do a "Flower Run!" We went to our local Wal-Mart and got some at 9:00 PM last Monday evening. I am not a night person, however, we were having a guest come over on Tuesday and I simply was too embarrassed to have him come and notice my lack of flowers especially by my front door and around our front tree. Men may not notice those types of things but I would and we had to do something!

However, my son, was kind enough to treat me to lots of amazing and beautiful flowers. We got a whole bunch of them. They were on clearance and just the right prices for us. They were just as beautiful as could be for our front and back patio. We purchased quite a few clearance items and my son planted them for me the next morning. Our wonderful son was kind enough to plant them for me the next morning. Thank you, Chris, for doing this for your Mom!!

Wow, I can not believe what a difference those flowers have made for me. Every time I look outside or got outside to get the mail through the front door or go outside on our patio, it puts a smile on my face. I look and look at that beautiful color of fuchsia, purple and white and green and it just makes my heart sing. Flowers are good for your eyes, heart and soul. I want to go outside every chance I can get. Shh...Don't tell anyone when I suggest to eat outdoors or have a break outside on our patio. It is also to really enjoy those flowers. Those beautiful potted and hanging flowers.

It doesn't take much to make me happy. I have learned to enjoy the little things in life and one of them is flowers and their beauty. Wow, it makes me pause and appreciate the beauty of nature!

What kind of Business Cell Phone Etiquette do you have?

2008-06-27T19:54:57Z

Isn't it amazing how much cells phones affect so many parts of our lives?

Cell phones have really changed our lives haven't they? My husband was gone for two weeks to complete his last Doctoral module in Southern California. He would call every morning and then in the evenings. It is important to check in with each other especially during our time of traveling to make sure to keep our family life going and keep the communication lines open for all. My son and I were home running the business. We put the cell phone on the "speaker mode" and continued our various activities and carried on. We could talk to him while we took our daily walk, have dinner or relax on our patio eating our cool Popsicles while he shared his daily adventures.

It seems just like yesterday how different it was to communicate with each other during these times of traveling and being apart. It seems like yesterday, if you were gone you could leave a message on the answering machine before we had voice mail. Sometimes it would be hard to catch each other and have a live conversation.

Even, when my husband I were dating, he would send me a letter and before there was Priority Mail or Fed Ex. It seemed to take forever to hear any news. Sometimes, I wonder, if that was not all that bad. It caused a person to wait in earnest. It increased your patience and your enthusiasm to get a letter and read then reread to make sure you did not miss anything in between the lines. Simpler life, simpler times for sure. The statistics are staggering on how many people have cell phones and how young kids start using them.

Is there is a Family Cell Phone Etiquette and Business Cell Phone Etiquette out there somewhere?

If I ever go visit anyone in our extended family, we usually put our phone on vibrate or turn them off. Some of our family members do not do that unfortunately. I personally think it is rude when someone gets a call and everyone has to stop talking when someone gets a cell phone call. I usually leave the room and either go outside or another room if I get a call. I don't think it is in good manners to do that to other members and interrupt the rare family conversations we have with our extended families.

Thoughts and Questions Regarding Business Cell Phone Etiquette:

It is interesting that sometimes having access to your Cell Phones, can "make or break the deal" in business. However, I wonder how much of our daily lives get interrupted when you are with a client and they do not turn their cell phone off.

I heard a speaker once talk about Cell Phone Courtesy before his appointments. He informs the client at the beginning of the meeting, "Since, I value your time and I have cleared my schedule for our consultation/appointment, I am going to turn off my phone." Then he asks if they would do the same. They usually do. However he shared that he has had a couple of people that did not and kept getting calls. He stood up and told them, "Apparently you are not ready to do business. When you are serious and want to do business then give me a call and we will reschedule." I know sometimes we are waiting for information that is critical. But, I am wondering what would happen if we did turn off our phones during a consultation and then checked our voice mails after our appointment. Aside from an emergency like a woman getting ready to deliver a baby, someone having surgery, or other life crisis, can't the cell phones be turned off? Isn't it a common courtesy to turn your cell phone off during an appointment?

What about you? What kind of policies have you found that work the best for you as you do business with a client at a consultation. How do you handle asking them to turn off their cell phones along with yours? I am just curious what has worked for the rest of you?

Invite to NAWBO Boise Area - Networking and Wine Tasting

2008-06-22T23:32:09Z

On Behalf of the NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners) Boise Area we would like to extend a special invitation for any Women Business Owner, Manager or team staff that would like to network with some very amazing, accomplished, creative and women in our community.

Join us For an evening of mingling, networking and a wine tasting with local winemaker Melanie Krause of Cinder Wines.

the J Crist Gallery, 223 S. 17th Street, Boise, ID

It will be held on Tuesday, June 24^th 5:30-7:30p

Free for NAWBO Members or

Register online at www.Nawboboise.org

One of the best decisions I ever made was to become a member of the NAWBO Boise Group. Why you may ask of all the groups around?

My Marketing Coach told me it was the best women's business group in town
I agreed after visiting when I started my business
Great women to meet and discover the wonderful variety of Women in Business
Important to support other Women Business Owners in business
They are very educational and inspirational meetings. I leave learning something new to enhance my personal business
Wonderful leadership and women in the know and on the Go!
No event is ever the same
Great place to meet other women that have similar challenges that you do as a Women in Business.

Are you a Graduate of Hard Knocks University?

2008-06-21T17:10:24Z

Not everyone gets to go to college or a trade school to discover their truest passionate calling. Some actually find it by accident as they go through life. Some people do not have the opportunities to discover them, let alone develop their passions into their favorite career choices. I was the first born in my family. I was fortunate to be the first high school and college graduate as well. I received a degree in Education and another one in Interior Design. I was also going for my Masters Degree in Counseling to be an Art Therapist for Children. I did not finish that degree because I decided to get married and save up money for our new life.

I did however get an education and some degrees unofficially from Hard Knocks University. I am sure some of you have also attended this University with me, correct?

It is interesting the many twists and turns that you can experience on your Life's Journey. I was schooled in subjects I never even considered would be part of my educational process. Here are some of the involuntary and voluntary Schools I have attended on my Life's Journey. I will also share some of the "Benefits" from attending these Schools. I do believe in honesty and I need to confess I was not always a willing candidate to sign up or go to some of the following schools!

1. The School of Moving - We moved over 20 times in my almost 29 years of marriage in California, Oregon and Idaho! This was due to career, health and financial changes and opportunities planned and unplanned.

Benefits: I have learned to make every place I live, large or small, into an oasis that is a special place for our family. Moving has taught me to see all kinds of possibilities and creative solutions for various interior spaces. These skills have been invaluable for my Interior Redesign, Color and Home Staging Business and clients. It also taught me to be flexible and embrace change in different cities and with different new people. I learned how to pack efficiently and make quick decisions on what is important to keep and what to discard.

2. The School of Personal Losses - I involuntarily majored in Infertility for years and years!

Benefits: I've learned that through this very difficult and grieving process not to give up on hope! I learned that my life could be full without children. I had to let go of my dreams and embrace the life I was given. I became thankful that I had a husband that was faithful to me. He has been one of the greatest blessings I have ever received! Also, I've learned the importance of reaching out to other children, particularly young adults that needed some "Re-Parenting." Even though I gave not expecting to get anything back, I was surprised to receive so much love and fulfillment in return.

We were fianlly able to adopt our amazing son, Chris. He has been one of the most delightful and unexpeted gifts we have ever received! We mentored him for 11 years before we were able to adopt him as our son, officially and legally last year in our 50's. Actually, we think it is pretty nifty! (This is another long, challenging and amazing process!) Today, he is my right hand man in our family business. If I could have requested what I wanted in a son, he embodies those qualities and we love him greatly! (Of course this came after relinquishing my dream of being a Mom!)

3. The School of Financial Losses - Even with our best laid plans and hard work, we had several financial losses due to circumstances out of our control. But sometimes we simply did not make good financial decisions. We have experienced just about every part of the financil cycle.

Benefits: I have learned to be resilient and know that things will work out one way or another. Of course, I am grateful to my husband's creative thinking and amazing opportunities that we have found through waiting, prayer (lots of it) and simply not giving up! You learn to make wiser money decisions and sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and go forward.

I have also learned how to be Creative with no money or very little money. This has served me well in my Decorating Business, too!

4. The School of Failed Health - Health is not always something you can control. I know from personal experience it can affect you in so many layers when you have a family member that seems to never get well. The process was very long and challenging for all of us. Sometimes it seemed like full recovery would never happen! That was a very dark time for our entire family.

Benefits: I have learned to appreciate that every day is a "Gift of Time." Learning how important it is to spend quality time with my loved ones. I do not forget those times and learn to be thankful for good health. I have learned through the class of long suffering that the result is being more patient and compassionate for others when they are ill. I have also learned that no one else is responsible for your health and that you can change and improve your health by better self care. It is a lot of work, but it will be worth it in your life.

5. The School of Life Long Learning - Since I did not have children at home and my husband worked nights for nine years, I had to do something to keep my sanity and pursue interests that would serve me in the future. I took various creative, personal enrichment, leadership and professional development classes wherever I could find them after work. I even finished my Interior Design degree during this time. This was much better than being depressed and giving up. I was depressed for a while, but it was much better to go forward and stay busy and connected with people in various classes and schools. One of my Aunts wondered if we were going to wallpaper our wall with all of the diplomas and certificates we had received!

Benefits - One learns to look at life through many different perspectives. Realizing that the more I learned the less I really knew. It was a time of self discovery. I learned that I enjoy working with people more than things. I am more creative than technical. I enjoy lots of variety, colorful things and we've got to have fun!

6. The School of Working With All Kinds of People - I have worked with people locally and internationally. We are all very different, yet so much the same. There were lessons to learn from so many different people. Some came into my life for a short while and some have become life-long friends. They each have taught me something different. I love the variety in people. It is fascinating to discover who they are and where they came from. Each person has experienced not only positive, joyful and interesting things, but sad, painful and hurtful experiences. I also found out that wounded and unhealthy people hurt other people. But for the most part everyone has a positive side to them. I love to key in on the positive side of people and catch them when they are doing things right!

Benefits: Realizing that when you reach out in love some people can receive it and some are not able to, yet. Not everyone will like or accept you. That is okay. We are all on different journeys and some are further along than others. This does not make us better than them. I have been so blessed and fortunate to have the perseverance to pursue positive ways to get healthier, mentally, emotionally, physically and socially. I strive to become the best I can be. It is important to reach out to people with a positive word, act or kindness. You may be the only one to encourage them that day. It always comes back to you one way or another. Even though my husband and I have not lived abroad, we have met just about every culture throughout our lives.

7. The School of Compassion - This seemed to come to me as I have been broken in my life. I had a naïve approach to life. I thought the more educated you were and the better you lived a life of integrity, that somehow you would be able to escape those hard and difficult challenges that life can bring to you. It is not true. It rains on the just and the unjust alike.

Benefits - I am not so quick to judge people now. I have learned to realize that everyone has a story, no matter how well they may be packaged on the outside. It is important to take the time to ask lots of questions and listen! When I do, I learn who a person really is and where they came from. This gave me a greater appreciation why they are the way they are today. I have learned to have empathy for others through the broken experiences in my life.

8. The School of Entrepreneurship - I've been to this school several times. Sometimes it has been a great experience. Sometimes it has not been so great. It is a lot of work and there are many trials and tribulations of being an Entrepreneur! However, it is an honor and privilege to have this opportunity in America. I would not want to do anything else!

Benefits - Working for others taught me that to be a great Leader you need to be a great Follower first. You can develop all kinds of leadership skills that overflow into many areas of your life. Some of the skill sets you need are staying focused, having perseverance and faith not to give up on your dreams. It is very rewarding to succeed in business. I continue to learn and educate myself to become a Better Leader and Entrepreneur. It is truly an ongoing process.

My husband's cousin, Dale, had the same job since graduating from high school. He even retired from this same job just a couple years ago. He was born and lived in Portland, OR all his life. He has only moved three times in that same city. He said something to us we will never forget, "You had a separate education just traveling, moving, meeting new people and living in so many different places. That was an education all by itself. You have had such an interesting and amazing life! We were shocked with his comments. But you know something? He was right! I would not want to trade our lives for anyone else's lives.

I use to wonder what it would be like to have a stable life and not have so many changes or moves, challenges or start new friendships all over the place. There were times that I wondered if our lives would ever settle down and we could actually put down some roots to grow. We have now been living back in Boise for four and a half years after the loss of both my father-in-law and mother-in-law. My husband is now the elder statesman in his family. Our families look to for guidance, love and hospitality. We needed to be close to my husband's two sisters and their families. There are no other relatives left in Boise, Idaho living nearby. It is a beautiful city and I can really appreciate it now. I do not want to move anymore!

I am forever grateful to have gone to all of these schools. It has not been easy learning through Hard Knocks University. Perhaps, we all go through some of these things and it is just part of life. However, I recently got an epiphany, that I am truly who I am today, because it took all of those people, all of those moves, all of those experiences to develop me into who I am today! I do not want to go back, however, I am grateful for the amazing adventure of my Life's Journey. I have been truly blessed to experience them all.

I want to encourage you not to feel inadequate with other people, their skill set or opportunities you may not have experienced. Or perhaps you have not had the time to develop all of your talents, yet. Relish in the fact that you are unique, you have special skills, opportunities and gifts. No one else can be you. Become the best You that you can be!

If you need to be encouraged or want to learn how to bounce back from disappointments, you can read more about our family's adventures in my husband's book. It is called: "Disappointments Transformed Into Destiny." You order it by sending an email to info@DanWoodworth.org. You may also visit his website at www.DanWoodworth.org. Or if you need encouragement you can read his blog here on Active Rain called: Dan Woodworth, "The Encouraging Communicator" http://activerain.com/danwoodworth

How about you? What lessons have you learned from Hard Knocks University? Perhaps you can encourage someone else. Are you willing to be transparent with us so others can benefit from your story? I have learned the more transparent you are with people the more "real" you become. (You can read my post at http://activerain.com/blogsview/486500/The-World-Needs-Real ) A failure is not really a failure if you learn from it.

Having Passion For What You Do - Like Tim Russert!

2008-06-20T02:02:18Z

We took time out yesterday to to see the memorial service for Tim Russert. It was an amazing service and wonderful tribute to such an amazing man. It was refreshing to hear the stories of a man that impacted so many people. All of the tributes were so touching and truly inspiring. I am not surprised that so many felt like they knew him personally. I loved hearing how much he enjoyed his life and could not believe he was getting paid for what he loved to do. He really was amazed to cover politics and be the "Custodian of the Show" on Meet the Press for NBC for 17 years. He really enjoyed interviewing all of the amazing people that held political roles throughout the years. He loved the challenge of getting to the bottom of their agenda and their opinions to give Americans a better view of who they were. His zest for life and passion were so remarkable. Tom Brokaw said it best, "He started each day like he had just won the lottery the day before!" He had so much passion and joy that it came through the television and it splashed onto others as a journalist, manager, friend, husband and as a father. He had discovered his passion and was doing it. He was "others centered" not self centered. Isn't that refreshing?

Passion means to have boundless enthusiasm for what you do that overflows to others. I love what I do because I can truly make a difference in people's lives. Even though I work hard, it is always fun to test, discover and find out what my clients really want in the interiors of their homes. It is so much fun to take them on their road to discovery. Sometimes we even give clients permission to do something they always wanted to do, but were unsure about it. Sometimes they just need validation that they have done something right.

I really enjoy knowing that the change in their interiors will not only give them an update but a renewed sense that they can enjoy their home. I tell my clients this home is about them - not me. They are the ones living there and I want to make sure we address their issues and concerns on making any changes or improvements. I make it a policy to ask lots of questions to discover who they are and what they want before making any recommendations on how to get the job done. It is not about my tastes and desires, it is about theirs. It is so rewarding when a client tells me that I really listened to them and now their space is better than they even imagined it could ever be. Now, that is my greatest reward. To know that I impacted another home, another life and really improved the quality of living for my client is truly amazing. It is so rewarding "Transforming Your Home or Office from Tired to Terrific!" It does not get any better than that. To earn a living doing what I love to do is just the icing on the cake!

What about you? Do you have passion for what you do? If not, maybe you have a specialty that brings you joy. Taking time out to discover who you are and what makes your heart sing is worth investigating. Life is too short not to do something you are not passionate and joyful in doing.

A Time of Self Discovery through the Which Hue Are U? Class

2008-06-19T21:18:38Z

Saturday, I was able to teach on one of my favorite subjects, Color! I have been teaching various decorating classes through the City of Boise, Parks and Recreation Art Department for several years now. Why do I do it? It is part of my community service to give back to others. It may be on a smaller scale than some of my other presentations and training that I do, however, it is still fun for me to meet new people in the community that are eager to learn something new. I never know what kind of students will attend my classes. There are a real variety of professionals, homemakers or retirees from every walk of life. The youngest have been in their early twenties to the eldest being 76 years young!

This past week we had a couple of teachers, a part time nurse, new mother, a personal stylist, an author and an administrative assistant. I really enjoy the variety. They were eager to learn about Color and how it reveals your personality through your color choices.

It was a fun self discovery journey. It also confirmed various aspects of our personalities. It is especially fun to have friends, co-workers or family members attend together. As we go through and discover different parts of our personalities there are often giggles, elbowing each other and just plain laughter on the confirmation of the World's First Validated Color Test. We used Dewey Sadka's Color Deck, "Hue are U?" It was really fun to learn together.

Actually, we did a scaled down version of this last Christmas after we had eaten together and opened our gifts with our extended family. We had a good time discovering and confirming the various personalities of our family members, young and old alike. We had a wonderful time laughing with each other on how accurate these revelations were on each of us. One of our family members said, it was one of the best Christmas get togethers that she had enjoyed the most. I discovered that we all like to learn about ourselves and each other in a non-threatening and easy way through our simple Color Test. Imagine that!

To learn more about our program you can check it out on www.deweycolorsystem.com or www.wemakecoloreasy.com.

Tim Russert, One Life That Made a Difference!

2008-06-15T23:29:20Z

We have been watching and so enlightened to learn more and more about Tim Russert! What an extraordinary man, father, son, husband, colleague and journalist! It has been so refreshing to hear the stories about how passionate he was about life, his work but most of all how much he cared for people all over the world!

We are never ready to say goodbye to someone so vibrant, enthusiastic and so passionate about life and people! It is especially difficut when that person is one that has helped us to understand politics and so many issues in our American life, like Tim Russert! I really appreciated how significant he has been in teaching men to be better Fathers and the lessons he learned from his Father, "Big Russ" and also the enlightening work he did in being a great Father and the relationship of Fathers and their children. How fitting that he would die this Father's Day weekend. Amazing!

One of the interesting things that he said, is "We each can make a difference! We can be heard and one life does matter!" Sometimes we may wonder if our influence really affects people. We do mattter, we are al individuals but those that reach out and care for our fellow man or woman can make a difference with the power of One.

Thank you Tim, for your life and making a difference. You remembered your roots and thanked your father and those that had gone before you. Our prayers are wirh your family and friends. Thank you for touching our lives in so many ways! You made a difference in mine!

Stylish Presentation Board Tips on a Budget!

2008-06-13T21:00:02Z

Often, I am asked by my students and fellow Redesigners and Stagers about our Presentation Boards that we use to promote our business. I thought these tips would help some of you that want to learn how you can make some quality boards on a Budget. We often get complimented on our boards so I thought I would share these tips with you.

As a former Artist and Graphic Artist I have learned how to make my own and I will share the three different types of Presentation Boards that we have fine tuned and found the most effective to promote our Business. It is worth the time and investment to do this.

The first type of board that we have is called our "Testimonial Board." I spoke to an artist and sign maker that told me something that I did not forget and use to this day. Their company found out that the most effective signs have a testimonial from a client along with the company info, logo and any Pictures of your project you want to promote.

Of course as Redesigners and Stagers our Before and After pictures are the best. Only use pictures that are of the same vantage point or angle and clearly sell your work on these. If you have to explain it, then it is not a good set of pictures to use to display your work. It is better to use your few very best pictures than a lot of mediocre ones. These not so great ones will actually hurt your image more than you think.

The second type of board is our "Large Before and After Presentation Board." We have tried several different approaches and styles on this and I think I finally found the best way of doing this one. The office supplies you will need for this are: a large tri-fold black foam core presentation board, Velcro dots or Velcro tape and also get some great mat photo paper and some white cardstock to use.

1. Again, I find doing it on black foam board lasts longer and it does not show the wear and tear as much as white boards do.

2. Print your pictures on mat photo paper (easier to see from a distance) or white card stock. You should use at least 5" x 7" size pictures or it is best to use 8 ½" by 11" pictures. If they are smaller than that, it will be too difficult for people to see them. Keep the edges trimmed the same, otherwise it will look sloppy.

3. Before I place them on the actual board, I lay them out like doing a Wall Grouping before securing them to the board. Measure and level your pictures just like on a Redesign or Staging project. We have learned to use Velcro dots or tape we cut into half inch sections to glue your pictures onto your board. As you get better pictures then change them out by using the Velcro. Depending on the crowd or interest I can reuse the pictures once I am done with them on another project and you can change out your pictures with Velcro. I started out using scrapbooking tape and depending on the temperature it loosens the grip on your pictures. Also, Velcro does not tear your foam core board.

4. Give a short description of each picture such as:

Before - "Cold and Lifeless" After - "Warm and Full of Life!"

I did ours in three columns or sections:

A. Staging

B. Color

C. Redesigns

Our Third Presentation Board we use is called our "Logo Board." We also have our tag line on it, phone number and website on it. We have tried Kinko's and Staples to make our Laminated Logo Boards. For us Staples Office Supply seem to do better quality for the money. They usually have specials for their color copies and laminated products. We have them in a couple of different sizes and use accordingly.

We then put all of our boards and place them each on an easel. We purchased a nice variety of easels from our local TJMaxx Home Goods Stores. It makes your Presentation Boards stand out when you use them at you presentations, speaking engagements, or trade shows. With proper care you can use them over and over again.

Once we are done with our Presentation Boards we fold the large black tri-fold foam core board. Then we place all of our boards in large trash bags or in bags they give you at Staples Copy Center for your large project. No matter where we take our boards if you handle them correctly they will last for a long time. Just remember not to leave them in a hot car. They can get damaged if you do!

I hope this helps you, especially some of you Newbie's and those on a Budget. Do any of you have any other ideas that you could share that worked for you on your Presentation Boards? Please share we all want to learn together....

Have a Colorful Day!

Dick Woodworth, A Father that made a difference around the world!

2008-06-13T16:28:28Z

Since, it is Father's Day weekend, I would like to honor my late Father-in-law, J.R. "Dick" Woodworth. Most of us come from dysfunctional families. However, I am grateful that there are surrogate family members that come into our lives that help to fill in some of those gaps. My father-in-law and I had a very special and unique relationship. Of all of the family members, he was the one showed me the most unconditional love. I am very grateful for that. It did not matter how well I performed. He thought I was great all of the time. He was one of my biggest cheerleaders. He was such a faithful husband and truly loved his family. Even though, he was very successful in all of his ventures he was an amazing man. To me that matters more than how successful a person is in their businesses. How does he get along with his wife and children is usually what I wonder?

We were living in Portland, OR, his hometown, during the last few years of his life. I would take the MAX transit train downtown and I would usually give him a call and check up on him during these trips. He enjoyed hearing about the latest with us and really enjoyed these calls. One day on one of these occasions, I had an epiphany. I thought I had received such a tremendous gift from him that I decided to call him and thank him for a gift that he may not have realized he gave me. I realized that he had truly modeled and shown his son, the greatest attribute of being faithful in his marriage. My husband had that modeled to him and he has been a great and faithful husband to me. He also showed my husband the importance of getting flowers spontaneously and giving cards throughout the year. Even though I did not experience that firsthand growing up, I did later in my life with his life!

This attribute translated in my husband's life. His Father was faithful to his Mother and he saw how much he loved her. They celebrated 54 years of marriage together. What a treasure that was for me. He had demonstrated that in so many ways. I realized that my heart finally felt "safe" and that I owed that to him. I told him about that and thanked him for showing my husband the importance of being faithful to me. I am so glad I did, because just two weeks later he died in Boise, ID.

It is very important to thank those people around us that have touched our lives. Some may impact our lives more than others, nevertheless do not take it for granted that they know how you feel. You need to take the time and tell them out loud! You can do it in a phone call, letter, or an email.

Dick Woodworth served as the Idaho Department of Fish and Game for several years and then worked as the Environmental Officer for the Northwest under the U.S. Department of Interior. Since he had been a political leader in Idaho he was honored with a beautiful State funeral at St. Michaels Cathedral in Boise when he died. We received so many letters from all around the world with letters of sympathy and they wanted us to know how his life had impacted theirs in so many ways. They all had a common theme. Each one wanted us to know the great impact he had made in their lives. He recognized them, saw their gifts and talents and did whatever he could to help them on their journeys. He gave encouragement, support and opened doors for so many people. He was very selfless and really thought about others first. He had become a surrogate Father and encourager to so many young people that did not experience that growing up. I even remember one wildlife photographer that said because of Dick Woodworth, he opened the doors of opportunity that he probably would not have had without his intervention in his life.

He was also a Rotarian and also helped several athletes get their start in European sports and get an opportunity to play. They know they would not be in professional sports or have their jobs in various vocations had it not been for his intervention in their lives. He was one in a billion!

By the way, my husband, Dan, and I will be celebrating our 29^th wedding anniversary on September 1^st! Thank you Dick for being an Amazing Father that touched so many around the world, especially your kids in Boise, ID!

Happy Father's Day to all. Have a Colorful Day!!

"Wellness for You and Your Business in a Stressed Economy"

2008-06-09T12:26:15Z

As a Business owner, more than ever we are under stress. We juggle and experience stress in a variety of ways. Usually we ignore ourselves and may not know what kinds of things we can do to take better care of ourselves. I would like to invite any Women Business Owner in my local area of Boise, Ada County, ID to a wonderful event just for Women Business Owners to our NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners) to our next Monthly meeting. Join us for a night of networking and round table discussions with local wellness practitioners as they give you the tools to stay healthy and stress free while the economy isn't. Last chance to purchase tickets online go to www.nawboboise.org for meeting info and to register online, go to http://www.nawboboise.org/02-08_reservation.htm See you there!

Why I like NAWBO? It is geared towards educating women business owners about their business and how to become their best in every area of their business. Wonderful networking group of women that are serious and want to make a difference in their community. This is by far one of the best educational and networking groups I have been privileged to be part of in my community. This is one group that I always felt I learned how to make my business better. Great group of professional women, too!

There are Local and National Chapters all around you. If you would like to know when the next NAWBO chapter meets in your area go to www.nawbo.org to find out more.

What made "The Dog Waggin" Marketing Work?

2008-06-08T17:34:55Z

I continue to see how others market their business. I want to see what makes a business stand out from the rest. I will be a "Life Long Learner." I thought I would share my experience of a recent vendor that stood out from the rest with some simple marketing strategies that caught my attention.

As I previously mentioned, we went to the Star Mule Days Fair. I kept looking at the various vendors and most of the vendors seemed nice and typical. However when I came upon "The Dog Waggin" Hot Dog Stand there was something different about these people and their booth.

The names they had for their products were clever and fun: "The Top Dog", "The Cow Dog," "The Spud Dog" and "The Plain Dog."(I hope I got all of the names right?!) Now maybe you have heard of these before, but I thought it was clever to put a spin on an old classic, "The Hot Dog!" (BTW, they also specilize in chorizo, too!)

Their booth was clean, simple and had classic red and white check tablecloths! Simple, but made you feel like you were at a family bar-b-que or picnic.

They had a simple product and made it great! Not too much but just one with a variety of toppings.

The owners, Del and Marcia Bain, Homedale, ID, had a smile on their face when you walked by. No pressure, just smiles, I love it!

We struck up a conversation and I asked them why they decided to do this type of business and what kind of events they went to with their Dog Waggin? They liked hot dogs and wanted to do something once a month to meet people and travel. This matched some of their desires. They were friendly and willing to chat with you.

Marcia, even had a hot dog that was face painted on her cheek. They looked like fun and interesting people and very hospitable. We started talking and I found out tha Marcia was retired and had worked in various political campaigns in our state of Idaho.

However, Del with his cool cowboy hat, wanted me to know that he still had not fully retired, yet. He liked to fish. They grew hay on their land and he had other businesses, too!

I could tell they were both very giving people. They were fun. They were interesting. No question too big or small for them. They made you feel good. Do you know what I mean?

So, I would like to recognize Del and Marcia Bain from "The Dog Waggin" Hot Dog Stand at the Star Mule Days Fair, in Star, Idaho, because they cared about what they were doing and they were doing it right! They also made some pretty great hot dogs, too!

Star Mule Days

2008-06-07T23:53:19Z

Our family just got back from "Star Mule Days." It's an annual fair and carnival in the town of Star, thirteen miles west of Boise.

One of my recent Dewey Color Consultant graduates, Marilyn Perkins, invited us. We were surprised to see her singing on the stage! She is very talented!

I also ran into one of my redsesign and color clients. Her husband does line dancing and had just finished a performance when we arrived there.

We also met some other very interesting people. If you live in Southwest Idaho, check it out! Tomorrow (June 8) is the last day!

When you are mixing with people, you never know who you will meet!

The Benefits of Pruning for Growth

2008-06-05T12:26:59Z

We went on an early morning walk today. The beatuiful Boise, Idaho skies were clear and it looked it was too good of an opportunity to exercise inside today. As we were walking in our beautiful neighborhood, I was amazed to see the beauty and colors of nature. The spectacular flowers are in bloom and the plants looked beautiful. When we arrived back to our home, I was amazed at how tall our rosebushes had gotten recently. It seemed that not too long ago, we had trimmed those hardy rose bushes to little stubs and they were not even two and half, maybe three feet tall. There were a lot of dead branches and we knew in order for these to do great this spring they needed some pruning.

Pruning, it does not feel good when we experience it in our lives does it? But many times it is a very important part of our lives. Without cutting back activities, services or work that really is not producing for us, we need to prune back. It is a hard time sometimes for those of us that are creative and like to do lots of things. I love what my Marketing Coach, Kathy Martin, from Sanders Martin tells me all of the time. "It is not what you want to sell, but what do your clients want to buy from you?" Makes you think, doesn't it?

Is it time to cut back or prune some areas in your life or business? There are a lot of good things we can do in life, but sometimes it is not the best time to do some of them. This is a time of pruning and assessing what direction our business will go in and what is the most profitable.

Another consideration is what are you the best at and what part of your business do you enjoy the most? Just some questions to think about.

Do you want to grow like my rose bushes? Then it is time to prune back and you will be amazed how much healthy growth you will experience.

The best part is when others notice and benefit from your strength, beauty and richness because you took the time to prune back not so long ago....

Ten Tips that makes a Speech a Winner!

2008-06-05T11:32:58Z

We were honored to attend the International Contest for the Toastmasters Conference, Region 15 in Boise, ID last weekend. Although we were not able to go to the entire Conference we were told that if you could at least get into one of the sessions, this final contest was the best of the best.

Even though, I do lots of presentations, public speaking and training on a variety of motivational topics, color, redesign, staging, budget decorating, just to name a few, learning to improve my presentation skills and from others is something I enjoy! It was intriguing and interesting to hear the last four that had competed through their local chapters and areas to get to this place. What an interesting group of four finalists! One was a Sanjou Choudhury, a restaurant Indian owner. He was an orphan and shared his struggle in life and how he now wants to make money to build orphanages and rescue other children. Mary Ellen Nourse talked about getting all of her education and all predicted she would be teaching at some large university somewhere and how she ended up working in a State Prison. How did that happen. She challenged us to examine what success really means in life. Alena Larson, a Mom talked about how change started for her when she got a "glimpse" of who she was and how to penetrate the barrier of change in her life. The last but not least was Richard Hopkins, a man that was born without a leg. He now hobbles along on an an artificial leg and the challenges in his life.

What makes a Presentation Speech a Winner?

1. Each presenter had their own presentation style of communication. They were comfortable in their "own skin."

2. They had prepared, no notes and their spech was part of them. They owned it.

3. Each speech was well organized and concise with an introduction, middle and conclusion.

4. They followed their theme from start to finish.

5. They were engaging and got your attention. They kept you interested in what they would say next.

6. They had wonderful eye contact with the entire audience. (A tip here is to make a point and look at one person for the entire point then move on to another person to say another point in your speech. Move around the room to see all.)

7. They each had a variety of vocal tone, cadence and their voice had vocal variety. Their main points had the biggest volume throughout their speeches.

8. Their conclusion gave you an overall summary and then gave you the final point with emphasis.

9. The presenters knew exactly when to stop. If they were to over 30 seconds over their seven minute time allotted they would be automatically disqualified.

10. Their speeches were their own creation and the topic was relevant to their lives. They were able to challenge the audience with something that all could relate to that made it so effective. Someone can always be inspired or learn something from you!

Overall they were clear, concise and very compelling.

Toastmasters is a wonderful group that will help you to hone your presentation skills for all levels and will definite help you to be more memorable in any speech or presentation you give with the audience of one or hundreds.

The winner was Rich Hopkins, Provo, Utah. His speech was titled "Glorious Victory!" and what that meant for him. He shared his life long battle being disabled and yet, how he refused to wear the crown that everyone wanted him to wear of disability. He challenged us and said that he did not want to be limited and kept in a prison of limitations by any family or friend. He wanted to run his race and break all barriers that would be acceptable to stay behind. Yet that is not what he chose in his life. His enthusiasm, accepting of his disability, yet knowing he could do more was so inspiring. His positive attitude and story were truly inspiring to all of us!

It makes you pause and reflect how fortunate we all are in so many ways. Yes, we may have challenges and obstacles to overcome, but do not let them limit you. Keep going, be persistent, learn from others and do not let your dreams die! I really appreciate what Dr. Vincent Kituku says, "A person is in poverty when his dreams die and he does not believe!"

By the way, Richard Hopkins, the winner received a standing ovation. He is now going to Seattle in the next week to compete with a brand new speech in a higher level of competition. No matter how far he gets in this International Competition for Toastmasters, as far as I am convinced he is already a winner in life!

Do you want to improve and become your best in your presentation style and communication skills? Find a local Toastmasters International Group in your area and go for your Gold!

Visit www.Toastmasters.org