Planning Summer Camps

It's that time of year again. Registration for local summer camps will be opening soon and I'm on a mission! This is just my second year of planning camp for my bunch but I'm keeping in mind a few things to make sure we're on route to another smooth summer.

To get it just right, I involve the kids in the camp selection. We'll sit down and hash out where their interests lie. This step is key because I've learned from others that there's no faster way to cause failure than to stick them with somethimg they have no interest in at all. Even the youngest kids have likes and dislikes, so I give their input some value. As parents, we'll still have to consider things like schedules, money and location. But if we give the child options such as first, second and third choice we'll be on target for a great summer experience.

There looks like some exciting topics this year and I can't wait to see who chooses what. We never have enough funds to cover all 10 weeks of summer for all 3 children, but a few weeks spread out across the months will give me piece of mind while leaving plenty of flexibility for a trip to the beach!

Have you started planning your children's summer activities yet? Which programs do they enjoy?

2010 Census

I've been hearing about the 2010 Census for some time now and finally got our packet in the mail. I immediately tore it open, reading through the letter enclosed and looking over all the questions that were on the list. I remember completing the census before, but did not take it seriously or really understand why I was completing it. Years later, I understand the importance and will fill in our information promptly and return it.

If you have not had a chance to read up on the 2010 Census and/or you are questioning why you should fill out your information, here are a few points to keep in mind:

• The results of the census help determine how many seats your state occupies in the U.S House of Representatives,
• Results help determine how much monies are spent on things like hospitals, schools, training centers, senior centers and public work infrastructures in your area, and
• The US Census can be used as a useful tool for geneology searches.

I for one have used the Census to research both my and my husband's family. It is absolutely GREAT for that. I was able to pull census reports from as far back and the 1890's and glean information about my family and his including names, ages and job titles. It is a small snapshot in time that is priceless.

I cannot wait for my little one to do her own research years from now and see how times have changed. We have come a long way as a people. Its most interesting for me to see the job title's change from Laborer, farm hand, seamstress, homemaker, maid to Engineer, Highway Constructor, Lab Technician, Doctor, Nurse, President of the United States of America.

We have come a mighty long way. Make sure you complete your Census packet and return it. It is not only important, it is mandatory. The benefits of completing will be felt for years to come.

Continued Blessings,

Meek

Do It Yourself!

I have realized over the past few years that I am a person who likes to have a lot of control over most things. Most of my close friends and family already know this about me and will probably laugh when they see it. Its been hard for me to let go and let God, but it is something I have learned is best to do.

I decided that I wanted to take an all around healthier approach to life, starting with the foods I eat. This weekend I was craving a chocolaty treat. Polly and I had discussed how it seems like the desserts now are not enough and they are not as filling as they should be. I decided that I am no longer going to waste calories on store bought desserts, instead I'll just make them myself. I made the best ghiridelli chocolate chip cookies I've had in years. I could only eat two they were so decadent.

I did not stop there though. I love the smoked turkey on country bread from Panera Bread Company. It is already made with fresh cuts of turkey and is simply delicious, but I figured I could make it myself at home. I found a recipe online and tried it out this weekend...my very first time making bread. It turned out delicious, chewy and crusty on top. I ate slice after slice and really appreciate my food having kneaded the bread and made it from scratch.

The cookies and the bread were so good yal and I wish I could share them with you!

So you see it does not just stop at books. Polly & I wanted books our children can see themselves in and that taught positive lessons. We know there were some books already out there, but we created our own...so that we could share it with you.

Continued Blessings,

Meek

Before You Start Your Business

Contrary to popular belief, a slow economy can be a great time to start a business. Why? Well, instead of being dealt a hand by someone else, many choose to take hold of their own destiny. In doing so they end up thriving, as others sit anxiously ringing their hands and wondering if they will survive the lows. But, caution. While a great business idea at the right time can be a wonderful blessing, a bad idea can put you in over your head.

If you are considering starting your own business, here are some things you should know before you go:

1. Research. Seek out data and statistics on your idea so that you know if there is a market for your product/service and who your competitors might be.

2. Analyze any strengths and weaknesses your business might exhibit. For example are you an expert in this field or perhaps this business will only be parttime. Things like that will matter.

3.Get help. Visit your local small business center and ask for someone to work one on one with you about any questions you may have before initiating any official actions to start your company.

4. Do your best to create a mission statement, so that you know what the real purpose of your product/service will be.

5. Draft a potential marketing plan for your first year of operation. It will help you decide your budget and if the business is feasible, since most start up money is spent on marketing and advertising.

6. If you have time, take a small business course or something related to the product/service you plan to sell. A bit of extra knowledge can give you the just the edge you need to win customers.

7. Experiment and study the latest social media. Technology is a powerful asset in today's business world.

8. Once you've done the footwork don't forget to reach for the sky!

Many blessings on your endeavors,

Polly

A Short Message: One Step Closer

Today Polly & I moved one step closer to having our second edition of Sisters Are From Heaven printed. We approved a pdf file of the book this evening and hopefully will be able to approve the softcover proof that will be arriving in the mail shortly. It is such an exciting time. Our second edition will have our very own logo on the back! God is good...all the time...and all the time...God is good.

We will be coming out in full force marketing, promoting and selling our book. As of now we have a wonderful vending opportunity in April and it will be the first time we are debutting our the book with our personalized logo. Soon Polly & Meek will be a household name. We believe it and embrace it and pray that God will work through us to deliver his positive message to the masses. A message and a testimony that not only lets young children see themselves on each page of our book and learn from the positive message it teaches but also one that reminds us all that everything is possible when done to the glory of God and he will make your wildest dreams a reality. That is the kind of God we serve!

Do you believe?