10 Ways to Be a Good Neighbor

10 Ways to Be a Good Neighbor

Why bother making friends with your neighbor? After a busy day, time behind closed doors is a luxury and reaching out to neighbors may not seem worth the effort. But, creating goodwill with your neighbors can pay off in big ways.

Historically, a sense of community was a staple throughout most of America. The onset of the urban lifestyle, social media “relationships,” the breaking apart of the family unit and the need to stay busy has robbed us of the “real-time” connections we once had.

Truly connecting with neighbors creates a feeling of harmony, security and support. There is tremendous value in simply knowing that someone is nearby who cares and is willing to help if needed. Equally as important as a sense of community, being good neighbors benefits everyone when problems arise.Continue reading

When Should I Text, Post or Make a Phone Call?

When Should I Text, Post or Make a Phone Call?

We love to connect with friends and family, and technology has made that easier than ever.  In a flash, you can text someone about a silly moment you are experiencing or post on social media a photo from your day.

Technology can also be used to say things that are hurtful, mean-spirited, damage reputations and destroy friendships.  Many things are said online that would never be said if standing face-to-face. Sometimes hurtful comments are made on purpose, other times, comments are simply misunderstood. How many times has someone misunderstood you when you were sharing something in person? It happens all the time, and adding a smiley face at the end of a text does not guarantee the other person understands your comment. Communication includes not only the words you say but how you say them.Continue reading

10 Skills Every Child Should Possess

10 Skills Every Child Should Possess

Children are often encouraged to “put on their best manners” when a guest comes to their home or when they go to an important event — as though “putting on” their best manners was like putting on a special outfit they might wear. The real goal should be to have manners become a part of them. But who should teach children to be civil and well-mannered?

Importance of Parenting
A parent is the most important teacher in a child’s life. Children learn what behavior and manners are important based on what they see and hear at home. Those lessons are daily and lasting. Continue reading

How to Be a Star Traveler

How to Be a Star Traveler

Travel season will soon be with us and for many that will include travel by air. Whether your get-away is for spring break, summer relaxation, a search for a warmer climate or the routine of work, travel can be fun, or it can be frustrating. What makes the difference? Preparation.

Preparation includes more than selecting your destination, purchasing your tickets, securing your hotel and deciding which sites you will visit. While these are important considerations, being prepared for the travel experience is equally important.Continue reading

A Lifestyle Inspired By Grace

A Lifestyle Inspired By Grace

“The manner, deportment or language which renders a person appropriate and agreeable, suitable and elegant with appropriate dignity.” GRACE as defined in the Webster’s dictionary

Grace. Graceful. Gracious. I love these words. When I think of these powerful words they bring to mind fluidity of life, of movement, of being. My desire is to live a life that exemplifies grace. When others think of me, I want to be remembered as a person who extended grace in all situations. I would like to be thought of as one who communicates gracefulness, not only in movement, but also in the way I approach people with ease and poise. I want others to see graciousness in me, through my kindness, hospitality and warmth.Continue reading