Time to reach for my goals....

For several years, I've had a dream...it wasn't in the forefront of my mind, but it was something I've pulled out every now and then. When I "grow up" in my wildest daydreams, I want to be a conference speaker. There...I said it. I've never admitted it to anybody except for John, my dear husband.

Over the past couple of weeks, I've had the opportunity to be interviewed by two television stations and the local newspaper about the Twins group I helped establish. I also had the chance to do an impromptu speech telling about the work I do in early intervention. During the speech, I realized how much I enjoy speaking (once I got started and the nerves settled down!)

So I made a plan. Obviously, I'm not ready to book a tour. (Please...hold your phone calls!) But, if I ever want to be ready to be asked to speak, I need to start preparing. This weekend, I made a to do list.

Short term goal: public speaker
Long term goal: motivational speaker

Steps to achieve the goal:
1. Join Toastmasters International
2. Seek opportunities to talk about anything.
3. Start writing in a journal or blog every day.
4. Take a class on writing and/or speaking.

Today, I took the first step. I looked up Toastmasters (a public speaking club) and found a local meeting (tomrrow at lunch!). I called the contact number and spoke to a member of the club, and I made plans to attend tomorrow's meeting. 20+ years ago, I took the Toastmasters, Jr. program in high school.

I don't know where it's going from here, but it should be fun!

More pictures of the kids...

I usually have lots of pictures of the baby, but this time, I got a bunch of pictures of the big ones!! The kids were in a posing mood, so I snapped away!

My new look

This was for my boss' wedding. I don't usually look like this! :)

Working from home?

I've decided to try a few home based businesses---hey they were free to join!!---what can I lose?

The first one I joined is called Wrap it Right (http://www.wrapitright.com/store/affiliate.asp?aff=295). The product line includes gift wraps and accessories. Think similar to Current.

Next, I found Stuff A Friend (http://www.stuffafriend.biz/members/julie%20d/) This is perfect because my kids have been begging me to take them to one of those places where you stuff your own bear. This is a nice selection and with my discount, I see a lot of new stuffed toys in my future!!

Then I found Blessed Toys (http://www.blessedtoys.com/members/mom2ways/). The main product for this new company is action figure dolls based on Bible characters. Several months ago, I heard about them on KLOVE radio. Each doll says a number of scripture verses. Characters include: David, Esther, Jesus and Moses.

Who knows where I'll go with all of these, but the journey will be fun!! Want to join me?

Water Fun!