The Job of a Working Mom Is Not Easy!

The job of a working mom is far from easy. I can go on and on about the many sacrifices one makes in order to juggle one's career and motherhood. I recently had to make a very tough decision on whether or not to continue pursing my full-time job, break away from the workforce cycle and branch out on my own as a free agent and full time mother.

Well, I chose the latter of the two and I'm experiencing so many emotions. There's definitely the feeling of What the HELL did I do, but yet, there's another part of me that feels like I've been freed and the shackles have been removed. I know we're a long way from slavery, but when you work in Corporate America in order to sustain a suitable lifestyle that works for your family, you really do become a slave to your job. They control you, they control your money, they control your time and they have control over everything you do on their clock. And like obedient, slave-like individuals, we do as we say. And if there's something you don't like, in most cases, you swallow it and keep it in, for fear of the consequences that may follow. Hey, this sure sounds like slavery to me, but with better benefits and better pay.

More importantly, what's even more disconcerting, is that sometimes as a parent, we literally contemplate making unfortunate choices between going to work and knowingly sending your sick child to school or daycare. Why? Because of fear and the consequences we face at work. I too am guilty of not wanting my own precious children to inconvenience my job. Wow, the thought of that does not even sound right, but parents are faced with these choices everyday and we all dread that phone call from the school or daycare stating that your child is sick. So my question is, what's more important, your job or your child? Unfortunately, I have to say both, but we tend to respect the job more. Don't hate on me, I'm just saying what most people only think, but I'm saying it out loud. I'm sure when you get that call at work, stating your child is sick, you're like, "Damn it, I have to tell my boss." And you know you dread walking in your boss's office to tell him you have to leave....AGAIN! Why? Because you don't want to disappoint your boss and you want them to know you really need your job, but you can't do that if you're not around. No one is indispensable.

In my opinion, Corporate America really does not care about your personal life, their only concern is what goes on in the office and if you're meeting their expectations. Again, in my opinion, your personal life outside of the office is an inconvenience to Corporate America . Taking time off to care for sick children or visit teachers or whatever the situation may be, means taking time off from what Corporate America deems what's important; their bottom line.

Two years ago I found a nonprofit job that I thought would fit my lifestyle, because they were open to flex time and they claimed to really care about their employee's families. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It actually worked out really well for two years. My boss was open to flex time, which then enabled me to avoid $1600 a month in childcare fees. I was so excited by the opportunity to finally save some much needed money, along with work for a company who I thought really cared. Well if something is too good to be true, then it probably is. Two years later, the company had a different agenda and no longer honored my flex time. I felt sick to my stomach. The thought of losing one entire paycheck to child care and precious time with my children was not on my agenda.

Moral of the Story: The wonderful thing about life is that we all have choices and I chose to put my family first. I chose to remove the shackles that bound me to that job, because I want control over my life. And as we all know, slavery IS OVER! And you better believe me, when one door closes, another one will open. I want to control my destiny and I refuse to be Corporate America's Bitch. "If you do not have big goals & big dreams, you will work reeeally hard for someone else who does." For me.....that someone will be me. Hey, if it doesn't work out...So What!

Wrapperlicious Clothing Swap, Shop & Network Extravaganza

Wrapperlicious's 2nd Annual Clothing Swap, Shop & Network Extravaganza was so much fun!!! Once I found the perfect pair of sized 3 jeans in a deep sea of clothing, I threw my hands up in the air and said, SUCCESS!!!! The jeans fit like they were made especially for ME, patiently waiting for that special moment when we would meet! It was truly love at first sight. Ahhhh...

Wrapperlicious's clothing swap was an exhausting journey leading up to the big event, but it was filled with so much joy & pride. The journey started with just an idea! I am the type that will act on most of my ideas and see what happens from my actions & efforts...HA! Anyway, in an attempt to simplify my life, I wanted to really clean out my closets of all unwanted and unused clothing, but in doing do, I also wanted to refill my now lonely closet. I pondered.....how will I manage that on a budget. Ah Haaaaa! My light bulb moment-- Clothing SWAP Anyone!!!! So with great effort and lots of team work with two of my friends, I turned my idea into a reality for many. It brings me so much joy to bring joy into the lives of many and I hope that was accomplished with this event. Wrapperlicious plans to host clothing swap events every 2 to 3 months. Whoo Hoo!!!

Also, in life you should be careful for what you ask for, because you just may get it! Gosh, I've been asking to hit the lotto for well over two decades....well...still waiting on THAT wish. LOL.

When I kindly asked to plug the clothing swap event on Great Day Houston, a local tv station in Houston, my wish was granted. It was an interesting experience, but well worth the cotton mouth I instantly received when the camera started rolling and the man yelled "ACTION." It was like I was having an outer body experience and my mind turned to mush and my legs began to buckle like overcooked spaghetti. And I thought I was destined to be a star. Not with cotton mouth I'm NOT! Tee...hee...hee. My lips became dry, you'd think I had been walking through the desert for weeks without water or had been eating white, powdered donuts. Trust me it wasn't pretty. Even Debra Duncan, the host of the show, asked if I needed some Vaseline for my donuts, I mean my lips...tee...hee..hee. Okay, that was a bit of an exaggeration, but it was darn close!

After I got over my initial shock of 15 seconds of fame, it's event DAY! We had food, tons of prizes, give aways, mountains of clothing and vendors for almost every need imagineable.

This is Tammy. Tammy hosts bead parties and they are AWESOME. And you get a great piece of jewelry after her shows too. Well, let me tell you about Tammy. Tammy was AMAZING!!! She stepped in and helped with the set up and the tedious break down after the event. She was truly a blessing to us that day and thank you so much Tammy for being an AMAZING sport. THANK YOU!

Melissa was also there from Wildtree demonstrating how tasty and wonderful her goods are. And let me tell, if Bazzle buys something, Honey...it's GOOD!!! I love Wildtree. Thank you Melissa for attending the event and I hope you got some great clothing. I'm actually wearing my clothing swap items as I write this blog. Whoo Hoo!

Affordable Embroidery was also in the house representing samples of her AMAZING work and when I say AFFORDABLE, I mean affordable. Victoria Henry, the owner of this fabulous business, actually donated items for the give away bags and she designed my fabulous Wrapperlicious t-shirt.

There were many, many vendors there and I believe they all had a GREAT time. Sales were low, but the benefit of the swap made up for that. We all left the event with adorable pink bags filled with clothing and a great time.

Overall, Wrapperlicious's Clothing Swap, Shop & Network Extravaganza was AMAZING!!! More importantly, we were able to raise over 25 bags of clothing for the women's shelter, now THAT ROCKS! This is a picture of LaShun Foster & I dropping off the numerous goodies to the shelter. What a great feeling. I hope you are able to join us for the next Wrapperlicious Clothing Swap, Shop & Network Extravaganza, because it's an experience you'll remember for a life time. So stay tuned for a Wrapperlicious Swap coming your way soon!

Keep up with Wrapperlicious Events at: http://www.wrapperlicious.com/

The Moral of the Story is this: If you have a dream, idea or goal, it's up to you to make that dream a reality. I love the saying: "Failing does not make you a failure. Giving up, accepting your failure, refusing to try again DOES." So if there's something you want to do, act on it. You may fail, but that is okay too; dust yourself off and try again. You are your worse enemy, so FIGHT it and do the damn thing!

HOLLA!

Debut of Wrapperlicious' Wrapper of the Week Photo Contest

Wrapperlicious Announces Its New Wrapper of the Week Photo Contest!

Wrapperlicious is very excited to offer its customers and visitors the opportunity to showcase their photography talents. Wrapperlicious wants its customers to submit a non-professional, non offensive, entertaining and super creative photo for the Wrapper of the Week Photo Contest. Wrapperlicious visitors will vote on their favorite photo.

Do you have what it takes to win this competition? Wrapperlicioius wants YOU to show your skillz!

The Grand Prize winner will receive several special gift(s) of the month, including their very own customized candy wrapper keepsake. Based on our wonderful sponsors, gifts may vary from month to month. The winner will also receive a prime spot on the Wrapperlicious.com home page! Talk about bragging rights!

Wrapperlicious Customers Are Excited About the Photo Contest!
“Wow, I love your new idea, I can’t wait to send you my favorite photo.”
“You did it again, you’re a genius!”
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About Wrapperlicous
Wrapperlicious creates personalized candy wrappers for any occasion you could image, from birthdays, baby showers, weddings, and bridal showers to holidays and corporate events. Wrapperlicious is so easy to work with that they will accommodate any request, no matter how odd it may be! Wrapperlicious prides itself on being flexible, forward thinking and nonjudgmental. If you can think it, Wrapperlicious will make it!

For more information, please go to the http://www.wrapperlicious.com/ website or email us at: info@wrapperlicious.com for more details or feel free to call us and chat at: 832-257-6795

Should You Care How You Are Perceived By Others?

Have you ever thought, I mean really thought of how people perceive you? Do you even care how others see you? Should you care? Should one take the time to STOP-LOOK & Listen to the hard facts about how others perceive you? You may think you are an awesome individual, to only find out that you are perceived as something totally different. More importantly, if numerous people are saying the same things about you, then perhaps you need to reevaluate YOU. If you keep getting the same outcome in life that you do not desire, then perhaps you need to reevaluate yourself and stop putting the blame on others. Self reflection is a powerful medicine and sometimes a cure to most problems.

Let me tell you a story of a similar nature. In Corporate America, there are two kinds of people, those who manage and then those who are managed. The ones who are managed are usually told what they're doing wrong, what needs improvement and of course the 1 or 2 things they actually do well. In most cases, the cons usually outweigh the pros.

I strongly believe some people get so hung up on managing others, flexing their egos and pounding on their chest, that they totally dismiss or forget the human side of people. They forget that people thrive on positive accolades more so than the finger pointing and nit picking. There's a true science and an art to managing others and making them feel good and appreciated for their work and efforts. But unfortunately, there are very few who even take the time to master those skills. Case in point, do you view the glass as half empty or half full? Which view point would you want your manager to have?

I love the saying, "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." But this is what I do not understand, the subordinate always takes the beatings, whether it's verbal or project wise. The blows are given, but they are never reciprocated. I understand this is not a childish game of tag or ping pong, but reciprocal feedback is always lacking and playing ping pong or tag alone is not a fair game. Why aren't subordinates allowed the same privilege of evaluating their managers? As I mentioned earlier, if no one is there to tell you how you really are, then the cycle of ignorance goes unscathed and nonchalantly continues.

A woman once told me that reciprocal feedback was thought about at her company, but the problem of anonymity was an issue. If you ask me, that is yet another excuse to avoid doing something that would require change. I think subordinates should have an opportunity to flip the script and let mangers know the pros and cons of their managing skills. If you do not know you are a terrible manager or just need a little improvement, then change is not possible. Just like a cook, if no one tells the cook that their cooking is less than desirable, then you deserve the continued torture of eating the food or force feeding it to the damn dog under the table who doesn't want it either.

As a result, even as a manager, I think hearing criticism from the subordinate's point of view, both good and bad, would not only benefit the manager, but the entire company. Why? Perhaps the feed back would be a revelation to the manager and they can now implement change in order to become a better person and manager. If you do not know the truth about yourself, then change is not possible. Sometimes hearing things about yourself from someone else, is a real eye opener.

The Moral of the Story is: STOP-LOOK & Listen, do not be afraid to ask those around you how they perceive you and if they think there's anything about you that you should change or work on. No one is perfect, but we all have the power and ability to change ourselves. Self reflection is a powerful medicine and sometimes a cure to most problems.

"Nothing Changes, If Nothing Changes."

My Experience with Hurricane Ike in Houston

Hurricane Ike visited Houston like he lost his job, foreclosed on his house, someone stole his wife and owed his mama some money. Talk about a temper. Big Ike shut most of Houston down, just like a wrestler unrelentingly slamming down his opponent with brutal force.

The wrath of Ike's temper destroyed and damaged homes, cars, power lines and left over 2 million people without electricity and clean water. There were also many who had to endure total loss of water for weeks. Mother Nature's wild child affected the lives of so many and without prejudice; ranging from death, homelessness, temporary displacement, to how we sleep, how we eat, how we drive, how we cook or not able to cook.

Although hurricane Ike caused a lot of sadness and discomfort, it also brought out the best in people too. Neighborhoods finally blossomed into caring communities and everyone looked out for each other. That is what I vividly remember when I was growing up. It was an unwritten law to know who your neighbors were in Brooklyn, because it was also a security issue as well. If you saw someone that was unfamiliar in the neighborhood, you better believe that everyone's eye was on that person. Now THAT is what community is about.

During hurricane Ike, there were numerous people who met their neighbors for the first time, after living on the same block for years. Now I think that is appalling. Has society become so engrossed in their own lives that we no longer find the time or put in a little effort to meet & greet the neighbors that live right next door or across the street? Sadly, it had to take a tragedy to bring the community together, which is very disappointing.

What's even more shocking is as soon as the power was restored and generators fell silent, the community immediately reverted back into being an uncommunicative, disassociated, quiet neighborhood. They hurriedly scurried back into their caves, just like roaches when the light is immediately turned on in a dark room. What? There were also plenty of roaches while growing up in Brooklyn too. So yes, I do know about roach behavior as well. HA!

It is sad that you no longer have to put in any physical effort to socialize. You don't even have to show your face. All you have to do is plop in front of a computer, latest video game or send a text message and relationships are forged. As a society, we have willingly allowed technology to control and shape our lives. Just like the natural evolution of life, we are evolving into unsocialable androids and being without power reminded us that we are indeed human.

When I was growing up, there were no computers or cell phones. And NO I'm not that damn OLD! You actually had to go outside to play, to make friends and to communicate. As our society becomes more technologically advanced, the further we move away from reality and the true meaning of what life is about.

As a result of my experience with hurricane Ike, I strongly believe we should all commit to at least one weekend or one day a month where we do not use computers or cell phones and actually socialize and communicate the way our parents used to, the old fashioned way!

This entire experience is so enlightening, because now I truly understand why relationships with our grand parents and great grand parents withstood the test of time. They actually had little to distract them as far as television, computers, video games, texting or cell phones. They actually had to communicate with each other. If most relationships today focused on communication, then perhaps the divorce rate would not be so damn high. And I will admit, the week I was without power, I was forced to talk to my husband. It felt like I hadn't spoken with him in years. It felt a little weird, but good at the same time. It was so romantic, we ate by candle light every evening...tee...hee...hee. That's sure a thing of the past now....HA! Too busy on the computer and writing blogs...HA!

The moral of the story is, we all need to do some self-reflecting and seriously consider taking a day where we all band technology and socialize the old fashioned way. Do you know your neighbors down the street or even across the street from you? My point exactly. Turn the TV, video games, cell phones, black berries and everything else OFF! Say no to technology just one day a month and socialize like a human-being!

How My Children Have Changed My Outlook in The Work Place.

As I entered the office this morning, the "Super Mom" in me instantly kicked in.

Super Who? Okay, she is an innate instinct that has unfolded since having children. I opened my boss's door and noticed his prescription bottle had been sitting on his desk for weeks. I immediately had to investigate this matter. I hurridly picked up the bottle and noticed that it was his heart medication and it was EMPTY. I thought, "Houston, we have a problem." I really like my boss, but if he kicks the bucket, I'm out of a job. Wrapperlicious has been good to me, but I still need a steady income, but more importantly, I need health benefits for the entire family.

As my boss nonchalantly came in this morning, he had no idea what was to come. I walked into his office, raised one eyebrow and I asked him if he already filled his prescription and he said no. Without hesitation, I held out my hand and told him to give me some money and that I would pick up his prescription for him. He looked at me funny and said, "Joy, that's not in your job description." Now as I get older, things just fly out of my mouth, I just can't seem to control these sudden impulses. I then said to him, "Well if you die, I will suddenly be out of a job, so it is part of my job description, now give me some money!" Like an obiendient boy, he handed me $60 dollars. I took off....I mean, Super Mom took off and filled his prescription.

On the contrary, BEFORE I had children, I would have NEVER cared enough to make sure any of my boss' took their meds. I would have thought, "I'm not their mother and that's not in my job description." Now that I'm on the other side of this spectrum, caring for others seem as natural as caring for my own children.

The Moral of the Story is that our life experiences help define who we are and who we become as people. Our experiences add to our unique character. Also, our experiences can make us stronger, but unfortunately, for some they can also make us weaker. As I've said before, what matters most is what you choose to do with your experiences. Life my dear, is a priceless teacher and we always have choices.

Creating Something From Nothing

You may have already read that I can make something out of nothing. Well, I recently had a rather odd request to create a personalized candy wrapper for a client. She wanted a unique personalized wrapper created for her husband's birthday. I said that would not be a problem! BUT...she said she wanted a wrapper with her 3 year old's art work incorporated into the wrapper. I then said to myself, "Houston, we have a problem." Now this three year old is no prodigy mind you. Not wanting to disappoint my client or back down from a challenge, I said, "Bring It On!" I looked at this opportunity as a way to push the envelope of my creativity.

This is what she sent me.

When I first looked at it, I was like, "What the HELL!!"

This is what I created.

Although other elements were added to this child's amazing art work, the essence of the original scribble remained the same and the client was happy beyond her wildest dreams. Now I plan on incorporating this service into my business. See....I took what seemed like an adversity and made it into another opportunity. Although the candy may be eaten, this wrapper will always be cherished for a lifetime.

I am so grateful for every adversity I'm faced with, because you never know what will come of it. Remember what I told you, there's a reason for EVERY experience in your life. What matters the most is what you do with the experience. Now go out there and make it happen for you! God Bless!