"Kathi, why don't you just get a Dell?"

"I suppose I could." I said to my friend who is a computer techy person.

"'Makes sense to me that for the kind of work that you do that you should have a top of the line computer."

"I'll check Dell Computers and Dell Memory out and start saving my pennies!"

There is little else that I find more frustrating than dealing with computer tech issues. When the operating system slows to a snail's pace, the frustration mounts!

Of course when you add a new operating system to your computer and don't know 100% what you are getting into in the first place ... be prepared for the worst.

My advice is ... get professional help!! It took days to straighten out the mess and the computer is still not working acceptable. The best remedy would be to invest in a new computer.

How will I ever be able to get my audiobooks projects off the ground working with this slow machine?

At every twist and turn I encounter obstacles, yet I press on, realizing that when we are on mission with God the obstacles often increase to try to discourage us.

But by the Grace of God, the Agape Cove Living Series will one day be available in bookstores around the world.

Shopping for business cards? Wanting to start a new business? Don't rush into ordering them until you make sure that your idea is really feasible.

Yesterday, I sat down with the man from the Small Business Administration and discussed the preliminary steps to starting a business in the correct way.

He shared the first four steps that he felt were essential before writing up your business plan.

1. Define Your Idea

2. Define Your Target Market

3. Define The Barriers

a.) Financing

b.) Regulatory

4. Define Your Actions

This should equate to about a 4 to 5 page document.

Big Thinking Is A Blessing

Every once in a while, an e-mail comes across my desktop that I feel is worth sharing. I have no idea who wrote this, but I thought it was very good. So instead of deleting it, I've decided to share it on the Agape Cove Living Blog. Here's to BIG THINKING and to the extraordinary blessings that become a byproduct of them.

Have you wondered exactly how high your hopes and dreams are? In many cases the average person tends to sell themselves short on their dreams. They do not shoot high enough to allow smaller dreams and goals to carry them to a higher level. Some may think that lots of words and phrases are a sign of a big thinker. One thing to remember is that the size of your vocabulary is not as important as what effect those words have on yours or someone else’s thinking. There are several characteristics of big thinkers. These are three characteristics to keep in mind and get you started in expanding your thinking.

Big Thinkers create positive pictures in their minds and the minds of others. Words create mind pictures. Big, positive and cheerful words will paint an amazingly bright and positive for anyone to include yourself. Use bright and cheerful complimenting words to describe other people.

Big Thinkers make a habit of see things as they can be and not as they are. This kind of thinking adds value. Don’t get in the habit of being stuck in the present. If you will see the best then it will be the best. Use positive word to outline plans and build castles instead of trenches.

Big Thinkers do not let what they may not have be an obstacle. If you see yourself as a nobody, that is what you will stay. Seeing yourself as a somebody will add to you, value and soon you will feel bigger as well as think bigger.Make it a habit to add value to everything you think and say. Always use personal compliments when addressing others. Praise is always a successful tool when adding value to another person. A big thinker will consider themselves as the member of a team reaching for a common goal. When you keep these things in mind then you are on your way to expanding the height and size of your thinking.

A Beautiful Prayer

I don't know who wrote this. My friend Maureen who lives in Maui sent it to me. It is beautiful! Not being a fan of forwards, I thought I would post it on my blog for all to see. God Bless! I hope everyone is having a delicious day! ~ Chef Kathi Dameron

GOD HAS AMAZING THINGS IN STORE

Stars do not struggle to shine,

rivers do not struggle to flow,

and you will never struggle to excel in life, because you deserve the best. Hold on to your dream and it shall be well with you... Amen.

The eyes beholding this message shall not behold evil,

the hand that will send this message to others shall not labor in vain,

the mouth saying Amen to this prayer shall laugh forever,

remain in God's love.

Good morning, your dream will not die,

your plans will not fail, your destiny will not be aborted,

and the desire of your heart will be granted in Jesus' name.

Say a big Amen and if you believe it, send it to all your friends.

Money will know your name and address before the end of this month. If you believe, send it back to all your friends.

None goes to the river early in the morning and brings dirty water. As you are up this morning, may your life be clean, calm and clear like the early morning water.

May the grace of the Almighty support, sustain and supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Amen.

Love the Lord. Have a wonderful day in Jesus' name.

The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you. I see something good happening to you today, something that you have been waiting to experience. . This is not a joke; you are going to receive a divine visitation that will move your life forward mightily by the outworking of God's unstoppable Power. Do not break this prayer; send it to a minimum of seven people.

You are blessed beyond all curses in Jesus' name!

After the graduation cap flies in the air and the celebration parties are all over, guess what? It is time to get a good paying job and make good on all your college loans. For some valuable information, research the different options that are available to you in school loan consolidation. Just take the time to do your homework. You should be a pro on that by now.

Is your budget in shambles? Mine is after I had eighty assignments deleted from my queue today.

I had planned that revenue into my monthly budget. Oh well.... time to regroup again and come up with another strategy to pay the bills.

Living from paycheck-to paycheck without any real barometer to cover the fluctuations is the pits.

I don't even know that budgeting software could help me. Only God can do that.

Looking for a great place to stay in Orlando? Here you go, check this one out. There are so many great options! Orlando vacation home rental... what could be more fun than a couple weeks playing in the Florida sunshine.

If you are in the market for Portable Water Filters, then I would like to invite you to check out this link.

This just might be the solution you are looking for. Filtering our water is becoming more and more vital to our safety.

I poured a glass of water from a fountain in an office building, and was shocked by the cloudiness and wood chips floating around in the glass.

You've got to be kidding. I wouldn't put that contaminated city water in my body. No wonder there is so much cancer in the community. Doesn't anyone see a link?

As a blogger, I get the wonderful privilege of writing on a wide range of subjects. I must admit that some of the subjects really stretch me in interesting new ways and challenge me to think of creative ways to present the subject.

Truly I am often amazed by the new insights I receive by simply being open to the topic. As a result I realize that a new dimension of grace grows for me.

Such has been the case with postings on disposable underwear. Not the typical subject I would choose to write on, yet an important one nontheless.

Agape Cove was the name given to a novel I started to write a few years ago. It was a wonderful experience bringing to life on the screen in front of me the visions that popped in my imagination.

One of my favorite scenes in my book takes place in the Lilliemobile, a restored old relic of a truck completely outfitted with the coolest designer truck accessories.

When my dear friend was selling her multi-million dollar Tallahassee, Florida estate to relocate to the mountains of North Carolina she confided in me and shared her dilemma.

"Kathi, I don't know if the real estate agent that I was planning to work with has the expertise to properly market my home. There isn't a large buying market in Tallahassee that can afford to buy a five million dollar luxury home."

"We should all have such problems!" I said as I pushed my own worries out of my mind.

The meat was falling off the bone. Reaching up on my tippy toes I patted the range hoods and whispered, "I love you guys. You helped me to fake it till I could make it! Now I could write and teach volumes on the lessons that I have learned over the last fifty years."

With the genesis of an idea that was born so long ago, and visions of riding on a bike across the dusty roads of America, I knew I would need motorcycle sunglasses for a cross-country jaunt. With the click of my mouse I found the best selections on the Internet

The question of insurance comes up quite often among small business owners. Should they or shouldn't they invest in insurance policies.

When someone is fairly young, perhaps they think that the expense is unnecessary and that the money could be put to better use.

I've been there. Added up how much I was giving to the insurance companies. Was it worth it... I mused. Especially when my deductible was so outrageously high.

Now on the other hand if you have loved onesand dependents perhaps a no exam life insurance would be a good choice.

The Difference Between Average and Extraordinary

Market Research is critical for success in so many arenas of life. We often think of market research as applying primarily to business. But I would like to suggest that we extend the principles of market research into other areas of our lives.

What we uncover through our research could possibly mean the difference between an average life and one that strikes on extraordinary notes far beyond anything mere mortals could have imagined.

So get off your duff and study the possibilities! Dare to reach for the golden ring that has your name inscribed upon it. If you do your part, God will surely do the rest!

A Place To Rest Your Head

Agape Cove Living has morphed into a spot where I often share writings about assigned topics. These assignments are a great way for me to hone my writing skills and earn an income at the same time. So if you ever wonder why Kathi is writing and linking to certain topics... there is your answer. I'm trying to pay the bills and keep a roof over my head!

But more than paying the bills, being able to peck away at the keyboard is a blessing.

Are you traveling somewhere this summer? Why not check out this link for possible places to rest your head while vacationing...Condo Hotels.

Near Impossible Without My Office Furniture

I was actually thinking of selling everything and buying a motor home to jaunt across the country.

But as I surveyed my life and possessions I came to the conclusion that life in a small motor home would be near impossible.

Take my home office for example. This is a room that I spend far too many of my waking hours in... pecking away at a keyboard. I cannot imagine doing my work without all my office furniture.

I'm Plum Tired

I'm plum tired and pooped out! I didn't realize that I needed to scroll through my assignments, or that there were a lot more assignments on page one than actually showed up on the screen.

So I paced myself based on the assignments I believed I had assigned to me. But late in the day today I discovered that page one scrolled down quite a distance further than I ever realized. Oops! Either I need to up the pace or down an Energy Supplement!

Soaring Gas Prices

"We can order the battery online and just have it drop shipped to us. There is no reason for us to make a run to the city for it."

"That is a great idea. I noticed that gas was up to $3.20 the other day, so anything we can do that will help us to conserve gas would be a smart idea."

"I wonder why the gas has skyrocketed. Do you know?"

"No I really don't. But I understand that Governor Crist and a group of other governors from around the country are calling for an investigation into the soaring gasoline prices."

A Graduation Present For The Lead Foot In Your Life

"I know what I'm getting you for a graduation present!"

"You don't need to get me anything."

"Well with you driving back and forth to college in the fall, I'm going to give you a gift that might save you a little money, Mr. Lead Foot."

"Me a Lead Foot?"

"Yes you Mr. Speedy Gonzalez! I'm planning to invest in a radar detector for you to help you out so you don't pile up the speeding tickets. Of course I would prefer for you to just slow down, take your time and smell the roses. Kids today are in too much of a hurry."

Finding A Great Place To Stay in Orlando

Having lived in the sun-kissed state for the last 25 years, I have had many opportunities to visit Orlando. Sometimes I traveled to central Florida to play, other times to work. Each trip always had one thing in common: a need for a place to stay.

Where do you stay in Orlando? Finding a great place to stay doesn't need to be a challenge.

One of the best solutions for accomodations is a Disney vacation home smack dab in the midst of the action or centrally located.

A Dedicated Closet For Entertaining

As a retired caterer and special event planner, I am often asked for secrets, strategies and tips on how to simplify and save money on home entertaining, without sacrificing the wow factor.

Actually, I have hundreds of secrets and strategies. Here is one of them:

When you are establishing a collection of party supplies for home entertaining, a dedicated closet is a perfect solution for stowing away all the items you are going to need for hosting those parties.

Try to set up a closet where you can house your chafing dishes, candleabras, props, platters, table linens,folding tables and folding chairs.

Sound Machines Are My Secret

"What is your secret, Kathi?"

"My secret to what?" I responded unsure of what my friend was actually asking me.

"Everytime I come over, there is an amazing sound and feeling of tranquility to your environment that always matches the mood of your events. How do you create that feeling?"

"You really want to know? It is a strategy I first used during my days as a caterer and special event planner. Come with me." I said as I led my friend to my sound machines.

Daily Skin Care Regimen For Tender Skin

Feel like you did after your last trip to a spa, without ever leaving your own home.

Are you seeking radiant skin? Lavandou's skincare is the daily regimen that many women prefer. With a cleanser, tonic, toner and corrective products that will help any specific problem areas, you will have everything you need to have a radiant complexion. Check out their website for more information at tend skin.

Call The New York Ticket Broker

"Well, can you get the concert tickets?"

"They are sold out. Can't get them!"

"Surely there is some way we can get two tickets."

"I don't know what it is."

"I do! I'm contacting the New York ticket broker that mom and dad used last fall to get sold out tickets. Dad said the ticket broker was a magician, who could pull great seats out of a hat."

The Biggest Asset

"What would you do if you were in my situation,"' the distraught homeowner asked the financial advisor.

"Well, you really need to stay focused on the money. Your home is your biggest asset. So do whatever you can to save your home and not let it go to foreclosure. If that means selling some of your possessions, then do it. Find a beaufort nc real estate to help you sell your house."

Red Bullet Speed

. “How do you stay so peppy?”

“I have a secret elixir!”

“Oh you do? Well spit it out, I want to know your secret strategy!”

‘It is Red Bullet! Red Bullet is my tried and true energy drink.”

“You are a Red Bullet fan? I never would have suspected that!”

At An All Time High

Foreclosures are at an all time high. Kind of makes one wonder, it does me anyway. The world was far from perfect when W took over, but BOY it sure has gone to HELL in a hand basket under his leadership. What has this President done for us? I can’t think of one thing to commend him for because I don’t think he cares about truly serving the people of this nation. I better not even get started on it or I’ll end up getting in trouble for bashing Bush instead of promoting the merits of California Mortgage Refinance. Thank Bush for that one! Next time lets elect a leader who will stay focused on serving the people of this nation, I wonder if there is such a person? We need a People’s President!

Traveling This Summer

I’ve been thinking of traveling this summer. My life has been in transition for a while now and I’ve been like a hermit for way too long. Once upon a time I was always jaunting away on new adventures. But in recent years my life seems to have revolving around my office. Uggh! I think I’ll pack up my Samsonite luggage and steal away into the balmy evening air.

Half A Dozen

The telemarketers use to call at least half a dozen times a week when I owned my catering business, asking me to consider changing to their electronic check processing systems. But my business wasn’t the sort that needed to invest in that type of equipment.
First of all my customers didn’t write bad checks and I simply didn’t take credit cards, so things were pretty easy in that respect.

An Illuminating Idea

Under cabinet lighting was a brilliant invention. I wonder who first conceived of the idea to illuminate a workspace in this way. I also wonder how many people thought about the idea, but never took the idea to the next level. I suppose it doesn’t really matter, except that as always there is a deeper lesson to be learned, a lesson that might be timely for those with an inventive spirit.

My Favorite Outdoor Room

One of my favorite outdoor rooms was furnished in a collection of teak. It was positively enchanting. The room, hidden away in a secret covered garden, overlooked a meandering brook where frogs, crickets and cicadas performed a nightly symphony.

I liked their concerto because it was a sound, smell, and vision that transported me to days of long ago when I was a pint-sized toddler dazzled by the lightning bugs that illuminated the evening sky, beside grandmother’s vintage teak outdoor furniture.

Bed and Breakfast

Some of my favorite cookbooks and travel books are the ones that feature regional Bed and Breakfast businesses. I can’t identify it exactly, but there is something special about that which is associated with B & B’s. There is a certain spirit that is evoked, a sensibility, if you will, to a more genteel experience. Often set far from off the maddening crowds, there is that feeling of delicious tranquility and grace. When I fold together a batch of blueberry muffins, I can almost taste the Adirondacks region from where the recipe originated.

A Simple Marketing Strategy

Imprinted pens are a simple, yet effective marketing strategy. Think about how many times you use a pen.

The applications for imprinted pen marketing are many. Whether you have a traditional brick and mortar business, an Internet business or a door-to-door business, the pen remains one of the all-time favorite promotional freebies given out by businesses in an effort to keep their name in the clients stream of consciousness.

Couple that pen with outstanding customer service and a well-thought out business plan and you will be well on the road to a promised land flowing with milk and honey.

A New Wind Is Blowing

For those who are following my blogging adventures across the Internet, I imagine that you sense a new wind is blowing in my life. One is!

The winds of change are playing a symphony over my life in ways beyond my wildest imagination.

Yes, I think an opera could indeed be written to the events brewing in my little world. For I hear music, never before heard. Melodies that resonate with powerful emotions, so powerful in fact that they are about to blow away the standard quo that has defined my present existence.

I dream of tasting the world again, partaking of the theatre, ballet and concerts. But more than just an observer or spectator, like I once was. No, this time I want to make my small contribution to the arts in whatever way the spirit leads. Wherever I travel I want to get concert tickets.

Those Showroom Pieces

Setting up a new home is always fun. Hunting for just the perfect furniture and accessories that will turn a house into a home is a passion many of us hold dear.

Often we go about the task of creating our living spaces as if we are creating the most important sanctuary.

In many ways we are, but it is often those very pieces that we buy to bring comfort to our lives that can ultimately keep us from truly realizing our true potential.

It is hard to imagine that those showroom pieces of home furniture or the exquisite treasures from many an antiquing jaunt could one day hold us as a prisoner to a life or a place that no longer fits, but that we grasp firmly to because that is just what the world does. Accumulating massive stock piles of stuff is the way of much of the American culture. We stay in a perpetual state of bondage to possessions.

Buying Birthday Gifts For Him

I was thinking about different birthday gifts for the man in my life. Buying presents for a man can be a real challenge.

What do you get for a guy who has everything?

It is smart to focus on his hobbies and interests. So I thought long and hard about what rocks his boat.

That is when I came up with the perfect idea.

He's going to love this! I am buying him steelers tickets!

Imagine Retreating To A Place...

Sometimes the best solution is to get away to a quiet and secluded location, a retreat, if you will.

Imagine retreating to a place where you can become saturated with whatever it is you need.

Perhaps it is healing, healing from addictions or loss.

Perhaps it is encouragement and support.

Perhaps it is retreading.

Perhaps it is reinvention.

Think of it as a camp of sorts, like you might have gone to as a child. But this camp will be all about helping you to become the very best possible version of yourself.

Don't be afraid to say 'yes' to whatever the Lord is calling you to- whether it is a summer of drug rehab, wilderness training or a writer's retreat.

You will no doubt leave renewed and ready for the challenges of life.

Mother's Day Luncheon

It has been said that one of the worst days of the year to eat out at a restaurant is on Mother's Day, yet it is the one of the most common days to eat out.

Instead of the big crowds and poor service, why not treat mom to a wonderful brunch at home?

Imagine a pretty garden setting with some of mom's favorite foods.

Perhaps a Chicken and Apricot Salad served in individual crystal stemmed dessert goblets, some ginger-kissed steamed asparagus, and lemon-raspberry tea bread. For a special present ~ here's a novel idea. How about a mother's prayer book or devotional book with a jewish, protestant or catholic books spiritual flavor ?

Photo Credit: Adrian Vee & SXC

Antique Bibles

There is something about antique books, especially when those antique books are of a divine nature.

About three weeks ago I received a box of old family books in the mail. Arriving home from bible study, I was greeted by the welcome box.

Nothing quite compares in my mind to holding in my hand a bible that belonged to my father and to my grandparents, who all long ago departed this world for the heavenly realm.

Will I find the same answers, the same solace in those pages as they did?

Did they ever imagine that I would be the caretaker of those materials one day? Unlike my bible, the pages are not written on. My bible is a bit of a dated chronicle, as I have taken to dating the comments, questions, praises and prayers that I've written in the small margins of the tissue paper pages.

When it is time to buy a gift for a friend or a bride and groom I like to go online and search for bibles or other spiritual, christian or catholic gifts.

Photo Credit: Henkster & SXC

What Do You Read Into The Photo?

This gentleman reminds of a famous tv doctor from the 70's. What was the name? Something like Marcus Welby MD, I think.

My take is that after trading in his stethoscopes and his scrubs, he headed out to listen to the pulse beat of the world.

Maybe he's a frustrated musician. But, I doubt it!
He's simply retired and enjoying the leisurely pace.

I think he is a man of much passion. Look at the setting of the photograph! Simply exquisite!

And my goodness ...the heart of someone who would sing into the soul of the flower. I love this photo! One can only imagine how we would serenade his love!

What do you read into the photo? You are welcome to share your thoughts.

photo credit: Antonio Jimenez Alonso & SXC

Extra, Extra Read All About It!

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

Why I think this little guy is on vacation and looking at his options for the day or perhaps he's still in the planning stages of deciding where to go for his holiday.

One of the first steps after deciding on a destination would be to come up with accommodations.

Maybe he's scanning the Vacation Rentals! I bet he would love to spend a few weeks in Orlando! What do you think?

Photo Credit: Cris Watk & SXC

Finding A Safe Harbor

The Agape Cove Living Blog was originally envisioned as a spiritual safe harbor- a place filled with agape! Agape means love, but not the human love that so often comes to mind. But rather a divine and all-encompassing love.

A love that meets us where we are, amidst all of our brokeness, and can transform us into everything that God originally created us to be.

No matter how broken we are, or how long we have been broken, God can still do the most extraordinary things with our lives! HE is in the business of transformation.
Transforming you and me into everything HE created each one us to be! We are all magnificent works in progress.

If you came to this page because you did a key word search for prescription drug addiction. WELCOME! I invite you to click on the hyperlink and visit the Cliffside Malibu website. May God Be With You! Agape!

Photo Credit: Lorenzo S. & SXC

Grandfather Clock Memories

Do you have a grandfather clock?

While I don't own one personally, there is one that has been in my family for several generations.

The chimes of this clock are profoundly tied to my earliest memories. Memories of holiday meals at my grandmother and grandfathers house, memories of playing old Americana games and memories of being so small that other family members had to lift me up to sit on a sofa in my grandparent's beautifully appointed and decorated living room.

Today when I call my dad's widow on the phone, I often hear those chimes in the background. Chimes and memories that pre-date my stepmothers entrance into our families life. She is the current caretaker of this special family heirloom.

While antiquing several years ago with my friend Joe, I discovered a rare grandfather clock.

Do you have a grandfather story that you would like to share? Please add a post!

Photo Credit: D. Lee & SXC

Breakfast at Tiffany's

Everyone needs a good jewelry store. One of my favorite jewelry stores when I lived in Chicago was Peacock's Jewelry Store. I don't even know if they are still in business.

Another favorite was Baily, Banks and Biddle. Are they still in business?

Of course there is the fabulous Tiffany's in New York. Ah... Breakfast At Tiffany's!

Over the last several years, I've stopped wearing most of my jewelry. These days I wear only a pair of diamond earings and a cross.

The one piece of jewelry I would love to own, would be a simple diamond and gold cross pendant.
Maybe I could find one online at reeds jewelers.

A Resource For Promotional Pens

"Monogrammed Pens! I love the idea! Where can I get some?"

" When I owned Canopy Rose Catering, I would receive monthly phone calls from a company out of Arizona that was in the business of promotional pens. They kept me stocked with a ready supply of calendars, business card magnets and pens. But they don't call me anymore. So I've had to look online for a dependable resource. I was happy to find pensrus.com"

"I'll check them out. Thanks for the name of an Internet resource ."

Monogrammed Pens: A Good Promotional Strategy

Monogrammed pens are a smart marketing promotional strategy for businesses. Unlike other forms of marketing, pens are not tossed in the garbage when they are received. But rather the pen is often used over and over again, countless times. Each time the pen sends a subconscious message, reminding the user of the business.

Keeping your name in front of the buyers is essential. Don't let your competition take over your market share. Give personalized pens to everyone!

Fire Insurance

Death insurance is generally not a subject I think a whole lot about. Being a single woman without children or any dependents, I figure why do I need to pay for death insurance!

When I'm gone_ I'm gone.

I'm far more concerned about eternity insurance or fire insurance. I want to spend out my eternity in Heaven. So I try to live out my current days in a way that hopefully will send me upward to the pearly gates, rather than tossed down into the lake of fire when my time on this earth expires.

Best I can tell... eternity is forever. This time, spent on earth, is but only a yawn in relationship to the bigger picture. Have you ever thought that this journey through our earthly existence is only a "test"? Perhaps we are being tested by the almighty to see whether we have the heart to join HIM in Heaven. For that reason I gladly say, "Lord, your will! Not mine. I want to spend out all of my days in the presence of the Creator."

Florida: A Vacation Paradise

Planning a vacation? Think Florida vacation! From the southern most tip in Key West to the Florida Panhandle cities of Panama City, Destin and Pensacola, with Orlando in the center region, the adventurous vacationer will discover a vacation paradise.

Deciding on a place to stay is easy when you know about moremouse! Come on down and join the fun!

Arrivederci Roma...Hello Florence!

"Arrivederci Roma. Goodbye, goodbye to Rome."

The lyrics sang across my heartstrings as I climbed aboard the train and settled in for the three-hour journey. As the clanging and puffing high-speed Eurail train rolled out of the station, I reached into my travel bag and pulled out the rustic country bread sandwich – the panino I had purchased earlier that morning from an irresistible display of authentic edible hearth-baked masterpieces. It was a great adventure to be traveling across Italy by backpack and rail with dad’s blessing and dad’s financial backing. Even though many years have come and gone since that passage of time when the world stretched wide open with its panorama of possibilities, my memories are as fresh as if they had just been baked.

At the time, my dad’s third wife suggested to me that I should journal my experiences.“Write some travel articles, dear, that you can later put into a book,” my high-achieving stepmother with her freshly inked PhD advised. But instead I gave her prophetic suggestion “the boot” and simply stepped into each day of my Italian adventure with gusto and verve, allowing the experiences to become forever pressed into the pages of my memory bank.

Like any traveler enthralled with a new destination, I reveled in the delight of discovery. I learned that new culinary discoveries are often as memorable as the magnificent art and architecture of the places visited. On that day my panino lunch, enjoyed during the stunning and scenic train trip to the great renaissance city of Florence where I had reservations for a week stay at Tuscany Villas left a lasting impression on my idea of a great tasting picnic sandwich.

(c) 2007 Kathi Dameron

Finding Window Blinds Is A Breeze

Finding window blinds is a breeze when you know where to go.

Why chase around town and burn expensive gas when you can find everything you need right online? Yesterday, I was out-and-about in the daily traffic- ugh! While most of the day was great, it was that rush-hour traffic that nearly un-nerved me. I praised God that the majority of my work takes place right in my home office.

I'm looking for some blinds for my archive room. The existing ones are some sort of metallic substance and are not my taste at all. They looked good and complemented the former owner's choice of wallpaper and ceiling fan, but they really need to be updated.

Shopping For Orlando Vacation Home

Shopping for an Orlando vacation home isn't difficult when you know where to go. Through my work on the Internet I have become acquainted with an Orlando company that makes finding a vacation home a breeze.

Next time I plan a trip to central Florida, I'm going to stay at one of their great sites, located close to all the action.

People and Their Mailboxes

Mailboxes can be seen as an expression of the person who lives inside a home. What does your mailbox say about you?

Does it say you a cheery soul, elegant, stately, short-on-time or a no-nonsense sort of person?

"People and their mailboxes"... this is a theme that could make an interesting sociological study.

Show me a mailbox and let's see if we can get a sneak peak into the personality that owns that mailbox.

Supporting Woman Owned Biz

Supporting small, woman-owned businesses is a smart idea. Women are engaging in such an exciting range of occupations today. From EMI Shielding to running for president of the United States.

But just because a business is run by a woman, doesn't necessarily mean we should choose it above any other business.

Businesses and political candidates should be judged first and foremost on the caliber of the service, product or expertise they bring to the table.

For EMI Shielding, New England Die Cutting, Inc. and Gasket Manufacturing is a premier ISO registered facility. They specialize in Die Cutting, Waterjet Cutting, Laser Cutting, Laminating, CNC Routing and Contract Manufacturing services.

New Diet Challenge

Dieting is a challenge. I've been breezing along, dropping an average of about ten pounds each month. To date I have lost sixty pound. I feel great!

Yet, now with a new project underway, I can see a new challenge arising. Each month I'll be jaunting to a different coastal restaurant as part of my coastal culinary odyssey.

On Tuesday night we jaunted to a most fabulous restaurant in Apalachicola, Florida. The food was awesome, but ever since Tuesday night it has been difficult to get the fabulous taste off my mind.

I wonder if something like hoodia might help me.

Find Out The Truth

When you want to know the genetic truth of a person's heritage, a DNA sample will provide you with reliable data.

Even when the person in question is not present, there are a variety of ways that heritage can be determined.

DNA testing is the solution. Why not go ahead and take the steps to find out the truth.

The Bachelor Party

Maybe it wasn't such a smart idea to have the bachelor party on the night before the wedding. But it was the only convenient time. For it was the only time when all the groom's buddies would be in town.

Made sense. Well sort of, depending on who you were talking to.

The guys thought it was a great idea. The girls thought the whole idea stunk. And the minister... well that is a whole other story!

To say that the late night party that followed the rehearsal dinner was wild, would be a big understatement. There was nothing tame about it, from the dancing girls to the the oyster shooters, it was a wild night leaving the groom and all his men scrambling the next morning for some effective hangover cures.

Blogging Is My Passion

Once upon a time bloggers didn't make any money for blogging. It was just something you did because you loved doing it.

I have found that with just about every career that I have had in my life, my initial start-up began passionately, but without any compensation. The passion was so great that it really didn't matter that I was not being paid for my time.

Before I became an elementary school teacher, I student-taught and volunteered for free.

Before I became a caterer, I threw countless parties for my friends for free.

Before I became a paid writer, I wrote articles for free.

Before I became a paid blogger, I posted blogs for free.

But bills have to be paid and it is good to receive fair compensation for our labor.

That is why when I read a posting last November to get paid to blog, I jumped on the opportunity! Ever since becoming a paid blogger, I see a paycheck every two weeks for doing something I absolutely love to do!

I've looked at some of the other paid blogging opportunities on the Internet, but they don't seem to compare at all to the one I am already working with. I just wish they would send me more assignments, but with over 200 bloggers now, I guess they have to divvy up the assignments a lot more. I liked it when I was their first blogger, blogging for more assignments than I could count.

Can I do it online?

"Kathi, I think you need a computer memory upgrade," the aol phone-support technician said.

"Already? I just bought this computer two years ago," I responded.

"Your processes are too high. They should be about 20 and yours are way over that. Do you have a local computer store that you work with? I would recommend that you take your computer in and have them take a look at it."

"Ughhh! Can I do it online?"

A Sense of Accomplishment

"You must really feel a sense of accomplishment," I said to Lori, my weightloss counselor this morning.

We were talking about the satisfaction that comes in being a part of helping someone to achieve their goals.

Lori is helping me to achieve my goal of losing over one hundred pounds. So far I have lost sixty!

Before embarking on a diet, it is always smart to do your research.

Be proactive and check out plenty of different Diet Review literature.

Fit-As-A-Fiddle and Brown-As-A Berry

Water sport vacations are among my favorite ways to holiday in the summer.

When I lived on the Intercoastal Waterway in South Florida, boating was the lifestyle that kept me as fit-as-a-fiddle and as brown-as-a berry during the summer months.

I miss boating now that I live in Tallahassee. Sometime, I'm going to call Ed Hamilton and make reservations for fabulous Crewed Yacht Charters to distant ports.

Understanding Software

Every business owner should have good Financial Reporting Software.

But if you are like me, trying to discern which software is best for your particular circumstances can feel a bit like trying to understand a foreign language.

People like us- need people who can help us through the maze of information.

I like the Prophix website.

Don't Forget To Do The Market Research

When I was in college I enrolled in plenty of marketing classes. I found the advertising, marketing and public relations industry fascinating.

I learned about how important it was for research and testing to preceed the launch of a new product.

Actually I learned a lot about marketing. Some of these tried-and-true practices became forever etched in my brain, while others seemed to slide off like pancake on teflon.

The professor of one class had a sign over the board: "Don't forget to do your market research!"

Spread The News Like Wild Fire

Suppose you have just written a new book. Did you realize that your work is far from over?

Before you book that cruise to the South Seas, there is still much work to do!

In fact, I wonder if some of the more difficult work still awaits the writer.

From what I'm learning, the process of writing the book is only the first step in the book's adventure to the best-sellers list.

News of the book needs to spread like wild fire. There are many tactics that can be employed, some as simple as investing in a truck of promo pens.

There Is Always Hope

It doesn't matter what you have done... there is always hope. Sometimes people feel that they have messed up their lives so much that there is no turning back. But that is not true.

You can change. You can begin to make tomorrow better than today. But first you have to do three things:

1. Truly desire to change
2. Believe that change is possible
3. Ask for help

In my life I've learned that change is possible through the transforming work of God. By desiring, believing in the power, and asking for help; truly divine things will happen. Whether you are obese in need of weight loss or an addict in need of drug rehab.

Find What Went Unnoticed For Years

Intellectual curiousity is a great thing! One of the things that I enjoy about my work as a blogger is that I get to expand my intellectual horizons.

There is so much that I don't know. While it is true that I have earned three college degrees, I believe that learning is a life-long process and something that grows in enjoyment over the years. At the ripe age of 49, I discover that I am far more astute than I ever was in the classroom.

So when I received my current assignment, I knew that I had to do a little homework.
Because the truth was I didn't know very much about how valuable a Telecom Audit can be in uncovering cost saving measures that may have gone unnoticed for years.

Springtime In The Garden

Sequins of light bounced off the nearby reflecting pool as I went through my morning routine in the garden.

After a long winter there was so much to do to restore the grounds and coax new life.

I was grateful to the natural rhythms that already bloomed in the garden... the camelias that began the parade several weeks earlier, that later were followed by the wild azaleas and the dogwoods.

But I still needed to do my part. With little fear of another deep freeze, I plucked my clippers and gardening gloves from the garden shed and stepped into my garden clogs. As I pruned the near dead branches, pokings of bright green life assured me that my plants were indeed still alive and ready to welcome another beautiful spring season in Tallahassee, Florida.

That's when I noticed that my house marker could use a seasonal scrub.

The Mystery In The Parking Lot

It was a Saturday night in March. Spring fever had bit me hard and so earlier that week I hopped in the car and drove to the coast.

My objective was simply to escape the crowd. I found a vacancy at a rustic cabin nestled away in a mist-shrouded and moss-draped hammock.

Everything had been pretty quiet until that Saturday night. That is when the mystery began.

"It is Heavy-Duty reinforced construction – 14-gauge steel or .125 aluminum," the deep voice said.

"How much combustible liquid will it carry?" another voice queried.

"Don't worry it will do the job. It is pressure tested to 150% of D.O.T. requirements. " a third voice said.

Inside I shuddered as I tried to get a read on what was going on in the parking lot of this hidden resort. What were these three men up to with a transfer tank?

The Secret On My Rolodex

It is always smart to keep a list of service companies handy. For example I like to keep names of people who can help me when I have a problem.

Since like most business people, I've always had a full office suite of equipment, and from time-to-time I've bumped into repair issues.

On my rolodex are the solution providers to just about any problem I might need solved in the day-to-day task of running a business.

Recently I was flipping through my rolodex and passed an intriguing card that simply said Top Secret power supply repair.

Is It Legal?

Buying medicine online seems to be becoming increasingly popular. My friend Joe told me several years ago that he ordered his prescriptions from Canada and other countries for a fraction of what the same prescriptions cost in the United States.

I've been wondering. How exactly does that work? Since I am not one to ever take medicine, I never really thought too much about it. But when assignments occasionally come across my desk to write a blog post about products like Generic Ultram, my curiosity is engaged. Is it legal to sell prescriptions over the Internet?

Florida Golf

Last year when I was talking with Florida's Wildwood Golf Course and the adjoining Inn at Wildwood about doing some advertising with the Tallahassee Discoveries Magazine, the general manager at the time said, "You know, Kathi I'm really more interested in what you can do for me online. The magazine you work with is beautiful. I would love to advertise with you. But our research indicates that we will get better bang for our buck through Internet advertising."

Like so many others, he essentially said "sharpen your pencil and bring me a viral marketing campaign."

As I drove away I considered putting up a golfing blog featuring southeastern golf communities and entertained swinging visions of golf clubs.

Spotlight

I love reading success stories about businesses that begin with a simple but solid idea, and through principles of integrity, and tilling the soil of hard work produce a fruit where one didn't previously exist.

Today's spotlight looks at a company that began over a half century ago in 1951 when two men had an idea for starting a business.

Their venture was to market inexpensive, yet dependable life insurance protection to Americans who were living in rural areas.

They opened shop in Oklahoma. Through the years their enterprise grew by leaps and bounds and over fifty years later they are described as a prominent force within the insurance industry. The company now has 2.5 million policies in force, and over $30 billion of insurance with $1.4 billion in assets.

Today you don't have to live in Oklahoma to benefit from the fruit of this company. The insurance products are sold near and far. For example, I was recently contemplating getting some Funeral Insurance.

Touching Down On The Outer Banks

I'd like to take my parachute and touch down for a week or two on the Outer Banks.

It is a known fact that travel writers can get some pretty nifty free perks. Well I say bring them on! My writing sings all sorts of melodies, especially melodies of travel!

Investing in a travel writer's holiday stay can pay rich dividends in return with articles that will be read by hundreds of thousands or millions of readers.

Like a Parachute Floating Through The Stratosphere

Trace from Vendor House has been sending me frequent e-mail about owning my own Vendor House Christian store. While I enjoyed the opportunity and experience of owning my Agape Cove Bookstore with Spread The Word Ministries, the truth was I really engaged in the opportunity because of my writing. Through that time frame, I discovered that I much rather preferred promoting products than selling them. It is true I hate to sell anything. But yet I love promoting products. Go figure!

Some exciting news is that a new editorial opportunity might be on the horizon for me where I will be able to oversee and impact the editorial direction of a new publication. I'll keep you posted!

On November 10, 2002 I wrote the following entry into the first page of a Prayer and Answers Journal that I had just purchased from the local Christian store:

"If this is your will, Father God, please connect me in an extraordinary way to a Christian magazine that glorifies you on every page, story and advertisement. Father God please make that magazine lead a hurting world to you. Who will carry the words of the Lord to them?" "Here I am. Send me!"

While many of the other prayers posted in the journal, have answers also posted, this one does not. But I recognize that the Lord's orchestration has indeed been present since 2002, leading me step-by-step closer to the manifestation of that petition. Since 2002, I closed my catering business and engaged in full-time writing. For more than a year I have worked for a regional magazine in the dreaded position of advertising sales, but I've also had the opportunity to see how a magazine works and to write some articles for the publication. Since last May I've been writing a regular newspaper column, too. The column is something that indeed brings me great satisfaction and has helped me to become more focused.

With a mind that opens like a parachute floating through the stratosphere, learning to focus tightly is really a good thing.

So back to Trace, thank you for your offer to own another Christian online store, but the truth is I'd rather promote, than sell christian gifts.

A Treasure Chest of Inspirations

"What kind of writing do you do?" a new acquaintance recently asked me.

"My writing is rather an eclectic collage, sort of like my decorating style. If I were to try to define the essence of it... perhaps I would categorize my style as fitting more in the home, garden and entertaining niche."

"Maybe you can help me."

"I would love to try."

"We are doing some home remodeling. Jim's daughter is getting married and so we are converting her former bedroom into a new space. But we need help. We don't know what we want to do."

"A good place to begin is by browsing furniture collections online. With the click of a mouse you'll come away with a treasure chest of inspirations. Why don't you start by clicking on Coaster Furniture?"

Vertical Equity

A loft bed is a smart and space-saving solution for tight bedrooms and college dorms. Sometimes it is plain good sense to think vertically!

If you capitalize on the vertical equity in a space, you can get the space to often perform better, regardless of square footage.

Imagine a college dorm, and you see quite cramped quarters. But if you go vertical, the living and studying space could be below the sleeping space in a cozy alcove.

Ah, what a nice compact little world! Think loft bed.

Simplify Things

The assignment is a pretty straight forward one. The topic is about Financial Consolidation Software, something that can simplify a business owner's life.

When shopping for software it always good to read the reviews that are easy to find online.

By doing some internet research, you can determine what you should be considering as you decide on the type of Financial Consolidation Software to invest in for your business needs.

Dad Was Right

There are all types of dietary aids on the market to help people with their weight loss.

Keeping a shapely body can be a big challenge, especially when you have genetics not working in your favor. I didn't like it when my dad told me that I was going to have to watch my weight my whole life. Bless his heart, he was only trying to give me some good fatherly advice. But at the time I thought his advice stunk!

Fast forward a number of years... and I must admit dad was right. I will need to watch my weight for the rest of my life. Right now I am working on getting the scale to reverse directions and so far it has dropped fifty pounds!

I'm always interested in researching reports on products that can aid in weight loss, like the research on Metabolism Booster.

The Perfect Truck Tool Box

After buying his new truck at the Chevrolet dealership in Tallahassee, Florida my friend started looking for some truck accessories.

But he had a problem. He couldn't find what he was looking for in the local auto supply centers. He wanted something like he had seen on a truck in Dallas, Texas.

But since it would be ten months before he had another scheduled trip to Dallas, he got smart.

He went online and found the perfect truck toolbox.

Achieve Your Goals With the Synergy of Video Conferencing

I was so excited that Heath sent me an assignment to write a blog post about video conferencing.

It is true I love video conferencing! As a matter of fact, as soon as I work through the writing assignments he sent to me today, I'm going to surf on over and peruse the website and let the synergy wash over me.

There are so many different possibilities for how Video Conferencing can be used to achieve one's short-term and long-range goals.

Littman Stethoscope

I was surprised to learn that not all stethoscopes are created equal. The prices range between under $40.00 to well over $500.00 for the most sophisticated electronic instruments.

The ECHO Plus Data Link is an example of a state-of-the-art stethoscope. It is made by the Doctor's Research Group. The sound quality from this instrument is amplified by as much as 400 times the actual volume and can even be be linked to a PC to record patients' hearts.

If I was studying to become a doctor, I believe I would want this instrument. However, it is smart to research all the different types of stethoscopes available on the market beginning with the famous littman stethoscope .

Resistant To Changing?

"Ameriquest Mortgage must call me at least twice a week."

"What do they want?"

"Oh they are trying to get me to refinance the house. I keep telling them I have no interest in changing mortgage companies. I like working directly with my bank."

"Jim and Molly refinanced their property last year and they are saving close to $1000.00 each month."

"I know I should probably investigate it, but you know how resistant your dad and I are to changing our ways."

"Do I ever! I still say if you all won't buy a new computer, then at least add some more computer memory to the hard drive so you can download the pictures of all the grandchildren."

Beat Mesothelioma With An Orlando Vacation

After battling mesothelioma cancer for the last year, JJ has decided to take a long awaited vacation.

For years he worked so hard to provide for his loved ones, build a solid portfolio and create a future of hope and promise.

His health had always been great, until just before the doctor made the deadly diagnosis.

"Mesothelioma cancer? What in the world is mesothelioma cancer?"

A year later JJ could write volumes on this disease, but instead he told his beloved wife Viv, "Honey, I don't have much time left. Let's go play. Let's spend the season on an Orlando vacation."

"What about the cancer?"

"Heaven can wait. I still have a whole lot more living to do. Let's see if a little fun in the sun can help us beat this mesothelioma mess."

All Things In Life Are A Divine Test

While whipping up a batch of family heirloom secret recipe cookies a mother and her daughter had the following conversation.

"Oh mom. What are we going to do? If TJ finds out the truth it will ruin everything. Absolutely everything! We just can't let that happen."

"Honey you have to focus on the bigger picture. You have to look past today. You have to look at what is best for everyone concerned even if that means that it might not benefit you. All of life is a test - a divine test allowed by God to measure the heart of his children. One day you will stand before the Lord and be asked to justify the decisions you made down here. You want those decisions to be decisions that bring glory and joy to the Eternal Father and Creator of Heaven and earth. "

"Why mother, you certainly have a way of putting things in perspective. I guess I should proceed with the paternity testing."

A Dream Getaway In The Mountains

Question: We are looking for some mountain property in North Carolina for a family retreat. Can you recommend a realtor that can help us find the perfect piece of land to build our dream getaway?

Answer: You are smart to invest in Carolina mountain real estate! Mill Valley Realty is my top recommendation for anyone in the market to buy or sell North Carolina mountain real estate.

Promote Your Next Book

I go through more pens than anyone I know. It amazes me how fast I can use up the ink in every pen that I own. In fact I even have stopped using my executive pens because I don't want to pay for the expensive refills.

So usually I just buy the cheap pens. I pick up a few packages every month or so.

But lately I've been thinking I need to get some imprinted pens again. I use to give them out as a promotion tool when I owned my catering business. Everyone loved them and they were a really great way to keep the name of my business on people's minds.

Before my book is released I think I'll buy a few cases of pens with the name of the book imprinted on each pen.

What Is Ionamin?

Question: What is Ionamin?

Answer: Ionamin is an appetite suppressant that is prescribed in the short-term treatment of obesity.

As is the case with any medication, the patient should be proactive in their health care. Take the necessary time and effort to research what is being prescribed and know the benefits and the drawbacks.
When you are confident that Ionamin is a positive solution for you, follow your doctor's recommended usage instructions.

Weight loss drugs are never intended to be popped like candy, nor are they the magic bullet for transforming a lifestyle. Physical exercise is critical.

Your physical exercise need not be boring routines. Get moving in a way that is fun for you! Dancing, gardening and strolling antique shops can all count towards your recommended daily physical activity.

Irish House Blessing

Imagine you have been invited to a House Warming Party.

What are you going to bring as a gift?

A perfect gift for someone who is getting settled into a new home is an Irish house blessing.

But where can you find one?

A nice selection of house blessings and other special Irish gifts, are but only a click of your mouse away.

How To Find A Yacht Charter

"Let's charter a boat this summer and travel the world!"

"You're kidding, right?"

"No, I'm serious! We have talked about doing this for ages. Let just go ahead and do it! We are not getting any younger and we need to enjoy life now."

"Wow! What a dream of a lifetime! Where do we begin?"

"First of all we need to research how to find a Yacht Charter."

Choosing A Diet

How do you go about choosing a diet? The diet industry is busting at its seams with every imaginable diet plan.

A Diet Comparison is a good way to study the advantages and disadvantages of different plans.

Whatever plan you decide on, make sure and go with a plan that has your good health foremost in mind and not just the bottomline.

Are you prepared

Recent disasters around the globe have changed my paradigm about preparedness. We need to do everything we can to prepare ourselves in advance of a disaster. Do you have a family emergency plan? It is shocking how many people don’t have a family emergency plan. You should! Disaster Kits are a good starting point.

Looking for Real Estate in Raleigh

“We are looking for a traditional home with four bedrooms and at least 3500 square feet.
We want to get into a good school district. We are imagining a neighborhood school where
our kids can walk to school every day. Actually we want our children to have a childhood
reminiscent of the life we had when we were growing up.”

“Raleigh North Carolina Real Estate can give you the best of all worlds.”

A Warm and Sunny Climate

I love coming back to Agape Cove! The journey has been so wonderfully filled with the handprint of God's amazing grace.

I'm popping in to post a resource for anyone who is looking for a warm and sunny climate in which to retire.

Las Vegas Real Estate offers so much more than one might initially think. Sure Las Vegas has gambling and other vices, but this cosmopolitan city has so much more to offer than the colorful lost wages strip so many of us associate with Vegas. It really is worth checking out why Las Vegas is booming!

Climate and People Are Warm In Las Vegas

As far as fabulous real estate values go, I have recently heard that Las Vegas is a great city to retire to.

Now I probably can imagine what you are thinking. Perhaps you are thinking that Las Vegas is
the Sin City.

But I don't know that is really a fair assessment of Las Vegas. I went to Las Vegas several times for conventions and found the climate and people to be quite warm.

For retirement think .... Las Vegas luxury Condos!

First Communion for Children

Is there anything sweeter than a child’s first communion?
The first communion is a spiritual milestone in a child’s life.
For such an occasion, a gift is always appropriate. But perhaps
you are wondering what sort of a gift would be suitable?

For the most fitting of presents, check out the lovely selection
of first communion gifts available online at catholic company.

Marker for your home

Question: We have just moved into a new home. The house is set back a distance from the road and it is difficult to see the address. We want our friends and visitors to be able to find us. What can we do to mark our property more clearly?

Answer: Yard markers are a beautiful way to show your address. Seattleluxe offers a beautiful selection of yard markers for homeowners.

“I’m curious about this big family surprise that you have been so secretive about this last week. What have you been cooking up?”

“You have to promise not to tell a soul!”

“I promise! Now spill the beans!”

“Remember how mom and dad are always talking about going to Disney World? For their anniversary, I have reserved Orlando Pool Homes for an entire month. BJ is treating the whole family to the vacation of a lifetime!!”

“Wow! That is some generous husband of yours!”

Furniture For New Home

Question: We want to buy our granddaughter some furniture for her new home. However, she lives several thousand miles away. How can we do this?

Answer: The Internet has changed so much about the way we can buy gifts today. You can shop 24/7 on furniture store websites. Your granddaughter can look at the same furniture at the same time as you are viewing it, even though you have several thousand miles between you. One example of a furniture website that comes to mind is Powell furniture.

Introduce Your Website With This Strategy

Question:

What is a low-cost solution for introducing my business website to people?

Answer:

Why not push the envelope a bit with this idea. I would invest in a large supply of decorative return address labels. Instead of including the standard information that is expected on the label, I would put your website address and the most important thing you want to share with people about your website. Think elevator speech reduced to just a few key words.