Here We Are...with Luci

May You Spring Into Happy Action

Hurray! The winter has now melted away and springtime blooms delight us once again. It is time to spring into action, so rewrite your resume, plan a garden, lose five pounds, try a new recipe, pick up a new book. Whoa! Slow down, you say? Okay, I admit it...I am excited about Spring and I hope you are, too!

With the 24/7 news cycle spewing fear of a "pandemic," there is no time like the present to "stop and smell the roses." Join me as we re-emerge into this new season, refreshed and ready to plant the seeds for something that makes you happy.

Announcements

May 1 - 31: Comments Please! During the month of May, anyone who comments (and is subscribed by email) will be eligible for our May gift giveaway. You can comment on any Here We Are entry that is open for comments (remember, they are moderated, so you won't see it posted immediately). The May gift is a signed copy of Kathy Ireland's new book, "Real Solutions For Busy Moms: Your Guide to Success and Sanity." Look for the upcoming article about meeting Kathy and the valuable tips she shared on life and success.

Our April gift giveaway winner will be announced soon.

May 3: If you missed the Here We Are article featuring the JaLa Designs' "Not Like Any Other Mother" Mother's Day Contest, you can still enter the contest until 12:00 noon EST on May 3. It is free to enter and everyone who enters will receive a $20 gift certificate + the chance to win beautiful jewelry (up to $165- value). All you have to do is fill out the form and tell why your mother is not like any other. That is a Win-Win contest for all! 

The JaLa Design tagline tells us, "Be yourself and the rest will follow." Let this be your new mantra this spring whenever a moment of uncertainty arises.

May 5: Don't forget the apple, it's National Teacher's Day. Not sure what to do? There is still time to join in on the Teacher Thank-you Project virtual card program. It's free and a fun way for you or your child to say "Thank you" to a teacher who deserves it. Here is my note:

Dear Mrs. Ajldian:

I have but three words, "Arma virumque cano..."

Thank you for being the best teacher,

Luci

May 9: Residents of the 50 US states, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, can look in your pantry to donate all the carbs your thighs can do without this Spring. It's the annual "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive. Your local post office will pick up donated non-perishable goods at your door on Saturday, May 9 (check site page for details). You can also drop off donations at over 300,000 post offices from May 4 - May 9.

May 10: Mother's Day...We all know this one, but did you know that the month of May is National Egg Month? Irony or coincidence? Either way, I am bucking the trend and testing a recipe for an egg-free cupcake to celebrate Mother's Day. When the recipe is perfected, I will post it on Here We Are.

In the meantime, check out the Eggs 101 cooking school for tips and recipes on making the perfect Souffle, French Toast, Frittata, and more. TIP: Be sure to expand the "Insider Information" tabs for helpful how-to info on a particular recipe.

Update & Reminder

1. The Blue Moon Candle collaboration with Here We Are continues until May 31, 2009. Recently, HWA reader, Suzyblujeanz, commented:

"I am back to report on my purchase of the Sweet Orange & Ginger Candle from Blue Moon Candles.

This candle is AWESOME! The shipment arrived within a week from when it was ordered. The delicate personal touches of the packaging added to the whole experience. When I opened the box, the waft of scent was invigorating. Now for the real test...I have an open living room/dining room/kitchen arrangement in my condo and when the candle is burning the scent fills every corner of these rooms. It is fantastic! I am halfway through the candle and each time it burns the scent is as strong as it was the first time. Blue Moon Candles advertises that their candles are “Intensely Fragrant...” and that is no joke! When I merely walk by the candle, not burning, I catch the scent. If you are looking for fragrance, look no further. I am very pleased with my purchase and will order from Blue Moon Candles again. These candles embody the best of all worlds; they are a quality product at a reasonable cost and better for you and your environment. I would encourage anyone who is on the fence about buying this product to take the plunge...you will not be disappointed."

Wow Suzyblujeanz! Thank you for letting us know about your experience!

2. It's not too late to clean out your closet and clear the way for a wearable wardrobe. There are plenty of Spring sales in May so think about beautiful, new items as your reward for this long overdue task.

Busy readers - allow yourself to Spring into Happy Action, remember JaLa Designs tagline to "Be Yourself And The Rest Will Follow," and add a comment or two and share your thoughts with us.

JaLa Designs: A Mother's Day Win-Win Contest And An Inspiration

Looking for that special "not like any other" Mother's Day gift? Enter JaLa Designs' "Not Like Any Other Mother" Mother's Day Contest and you just might win eye-catching jewelry that will make your Mom smile (up to $165- value)!

At Here We Are, we are always trend spotting for our readers. The owner of JaLa Designs, Rachel Franco, is on to something fabulously different with her beautiful, unique designs. You will NOT find jewelry like this hanging around any old department store counter...each piece is handcrafted and can be specially designed for its wearer.

Months ago, I discovered JaLa Designs by stumbling upon Rachel on Twitter. After visiting her website, I was hooked by the stunning jewelry and her inspirational tagline, "Be Yourself And The Rest Will Follow." Simple, unique, yet inspiring one to be an individual - much like her designs! Love it!

To find out more about JaLa Designs and the contest, I asked Rachel a few questions:

Luci: You could have chosen any holiday to have a contest, why Mother's Day?

Rachel: JaLa Designs is a unique, handcrafted jewelry collection whose "secret ingredient" is its use of beautiful designer silk and tapestry fabrics. Combine these fabrics with antique settings and semi-precious stones and you've got necklaces and earrings that are, as JaLa's customers say, "creative," "beautiful," "works of art," and "different - I've never seen fabric used in a piece of jewelry before." Or, as we like to call them, fashionable reminders to be yourself.

There is no greater or more important person in each of our lives that reminds us to be ourselves more than our Mom. A JaLa piece is the perfect - and unique - gift to celebrate our Mom for exactly who she is.

Luci: Tell me more about JaLa's tagline.

Rachel: JaLa's tagline, "Be yourself and the rest will follow," really is at the heart of what JaLa's all about. It is my sincere hope that every time a woman or girl wears her JaLa Designs piece, she remembers that all she has to do to succeed is to be herself and the rest will follow.

Luci: JaLa is such an unusual name. How did you come up with it?

Rachel: The name, JaLa, was inspired by a very close family friend of mine who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly last year. She was one of my favorite people in the world, and naming the company, JaLa, after her is my small way of honoring her memory.

Luci: Wow, how lucky you are to have had a friend who inspired you that much. Here's to remembering our female friends every day! Thank you for sharing your JaLa mission, and obviously, your passion with us. I hope the Here We Are readers are inspired when they read this, I know I am.

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HOW TO ENTER the "Not Like Any Other Mother" Contest:

To be included for the chance to win and to receive your gift certificate, all you have to do is write about your Mother. It doesn't need to be a novel and no one is checking grammar - write from your heart! Read more about the contest here at the Ja-Notes blog. Why is your Mom different and how did she inspire you to be yourself? Hmmm, not sure she did? Then write what makes you a great Mom for your kids!

Be sure to click through on Step 1 or just click here and start writing about your Mom in the comments section. It's EASY and you might even want to copy/paste your comment to email to your mom or rewrite it in a Mother's Day card. 

How's this for the mother of all Win-Win contests? Besides a chance to win, it's free to enter AND you will get a $20- gift certificate just for celebrating your Mom!!

But hurry! The deadline to enter is May 3 at 12:00 noon EST. Good luck!!

Remember to be yourself and the rest will follow!

Text Message Abbreviations: Now You Know Your ABCs for TXTs

Part 2: Letters N - Z

Here are the rest of the text message abbreviations. Oops, I mean TXT MSSG ABBRV's. JIC U missed it, this continues from Part 1 of the Here We Are entry, Text Message Abbreviations: Let Your Fingers Do The Talking.

BTW, DIS that the "caps" are for emphasis (HWA is not shouting @ U):

MOS = Mom/Mother over shoulder [I finally found one that starts with "M"]

NIMBY = Not in my backyard

NMU = Not much, you?

NP = No problem

NRN = No response necessary

NS = No sweat

NT = No thanks

ORLY / O RLY = Oh really?

OL = The old lady

OM = The old man

OT = Off topic

OTOH = On the other hand

P911 = Parent alert 

PIR = Parent(s) in the room

peeps / PPL = People 

peep this = Hey, listen to this

PLS / PLZ = Please

PMJI = Pardon me for jumping in

POTS = Plain old telephone service

POS = Parents over shoulder

PRW = Parents are watching

PTB = Please text back

Ringl8 = Running late

RL = Real life (vs. on-line)

RME = Rolling my eyes

ROFL = Rolling on floor laughing

RSN = Real soon now

RU = Are you?

RUOK = Are you okay?

SH = Same here

SO = Significant other

SOS = Same old stuff

SOTA = State of the art

STR8 = Straight (re: sexuality)

SY = Sincerely yours

TAFN = That's all for now

TC = Take care

THX / THNX = Thanks!

TMI / TM411 = Too much information

TNT = Till next time

TRDMF = Tears running down my face

TPS = That's pretty stupid

TTFN = Ta-Ta for now

TTYL = Talk to you later

TY = Thank you

USA = Until sides ache

UV = Unpleasant visual

UW / YW = You're welcome

WB = Welcome back

WEG = Wicked evil grin

WEU = What's eating you?

WTG = Way to go

WFM = Works for me

WWJD = What would Jesus do?

YAA = Yet another acronym

YBS = You'll be sorry

YT = You there?

So there U have it...the HWA list of text message abbreviations. Peeps, IDK any that start with X or Z, JW if U do? PLS tell us, TY! GTR, HAGD!!!

Like the information you are reading on Here We Are? Be sure to subscribe -- it's free, we never share your info, and you might even receive one of our monthly gifts!

Save The Babies, Save The Earth

End of April Announcements, Updates and Reminders

Announcements

April 22: Earth Day is here again! While Earth Day may only be listed as a one day event -  we must all try new ways of "going green" every day of the year. 

Check out this list of easy ways to start the "going green" process to save the earth. Many of them you know, but how many are you actually doing? Did you know that by setting your thermostat just 2 degrees lower in the winter and increasing it by 2 degrees in the summer months can reduce your carbon footprint by 2,000 pounds? Seems easy enough! Bonus: We save $$, too!

Take the fun and eye-opening ecological footprint quiz that helps you understand your carbon footprint. Even with recent changes, my number was 18.8 global acres and 4.2 planets to keep my lifestyle going. Yikes! Time to make more changes. Take the quiz and let us know your numbers in the comments section...we are all in this together!

Also on April 22: Don't forget your support staff...It's Administrative Professional Day, too!

April 24: Plant a tree, it's Arbor Day! If you can't plant a tree, then add a houseplant to your decor! Both offer an easy way to remove carbon dioxide and release clean oxygen into the atmosphere...just plant and let these living, breathing green machines do their thing!

If your plants turn into dried kindling, then you can celebrate all year by sending Give-A-Tree cards. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, every card purchased plants a tree in our National Forests in the recipients name. There is a lovely line up for all occasions. Bonus: Save $$ - Right now they are offering an overstock selection at discounted prices. 

April 26: The March of Dimes April March is on and in full step toward another life saving campaign. This 70 year young organization has raised a staggering $1.8 Billion! An amazing .77 of every dollar you give supports research and programs.

YOU CAN make another woman's life better, brighter and easier by helping her achieve a full-term pregnancy and comfort other mothers with premature babies. Your donation can help the March of Dimes stomp out spina bifida, respiratory distress syndrome, heart defects, blindness, underdeveloped organs, and more.

I learned about this worthy cause because of a beautiful 3 yr. old girl named Hannah. She is with us today and thriving due to the efforts, research, and support of the the March of Dimes. You can join her family, friends, and supporters for an ocean-side walk on April 26 at 9:30 in Belmar, NJ. Meet Team Hannah at the boardwalk Pavilion (you will know it when you see it). Check out the Team Hannah link for more information on the ways you can help. So please walk, march, smile at your healthy child, and give - a little can go a long way to saving a baby.

Update & Reminder

1. If you are just deciding to take advantage of our Blue Moon Candle discount, you can also click through the new sidebar link to jump to the entry. Scroll down and you will find the information you need to purchase the best Organic Wax candles you will find anywhere - fabulously flavored with Essential Oils and sprinkled with Aventurine stones to enhance your good fortune!

Hurry, Mother's Day is fast approaching on May 10, get yours now before this offer expires on May 31, 2009.

2. Our Radio Show topic, "Much To Do About Divorce - Positioning Yourself Before You Ask or Are Asked!" is coming soon. Stay tuned, our guest, Judith Hartz, Esq., will be helping our listeners navigate this tricky time as soon as she completes representing a client in a current divorce trial. Here We Are will post the episode for you to hear as soon as it is aired. 

In the meantime, be sure to listen to our recent show, "Social Networking: How the Net Tangles Up The Workplace." 

If you find this information useful, consider subscribing to Here We Are for FREE updates.

Head Shots: Not Just For Actors Anymore

Social Networking Site Photos: How To Make Your "Profile Picture" Go From Blank To Beautiful

In our visually oriented society, it is more true than ever that a picture is worth a thousand words. The Internet is the new permanent record, so make your record the best it can be. A professional head shot is a tool you can use again and again on the Internet and in the "real world."

Anyone who has ever joined an Internet group or social networking site understands the moment of selecting a profile picture. You might think to yourself, "Should I go with a casual one taken at Uncle Pete's house last summer? What about that fun photo out on the boat with the wind in my hair? Maybe my college graduation picture still looks like me?" (Ahem, maybe NOT!)

While we write on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Digg, and numerous other sites that request a picture, it is the visual of each person that further connects us to each other. Think about how and what your "connection picture" is telling others about you.

Ask yourself, "When was the last time I sat for a professional picture?" If your answer is "at the Sears family photo-day extravaganza in 1979," it has been too long and you probably could use a clear, up-to-date picture. It is also helpful to have a favicon, i.e., favorite icon, of your image for web use; however, let's just focus on an image of the real you for now.

After years of commercial print modeling and acting, I have learned, by trial and error, about the process of taking a good picture. Because I needed a new photo for the web and Here We Are media, I went through this whole process again this winter. So if you are in need of a professional photo for the web, your workplace ID, press releases, or resume applications, here are some steps to help you prepare in a snap, flash past any anxiety, and develop a confident new profile picture.

BEFORE The Shoot

1. Find the "Right" Photographer: Sounds simple enough, but the right one for you can be hard to find. Besides considering cost, availability, and location, you must also consider personality. Is this someone with whom you feel comfortable or do they give you the creeps? This element is probably the most important aspect because if you aren't comfortable in a room with the photographer, you most definitely will not be comfortable when they peer through a lens at you.

Ask if he/she will come to you. Digital photography makes this option a much easier task than it used to be, although there may be an up-charge for this service. It never hurts to inquire.

If you see a picture of someone you know and it is a good representation of them, find out who shot it. This is an easy way to begin narrowing down the selection. Always ask to see their portfolio - make sure they show you one with "people" subjects, not still-life or products.

Discuss backdrops, settings, and lighting with the photographer before your shoot day. Look at the selection, and agree on your objectives for the photo. This will help with the overall feel of the picture. 

2. Mirror Mirror on The Wall: Take a good hard look. Is this the hair, face, teeth, you want staring back at you from your photo? If so, great, you are set. Most of us are not that lucky. Time to have an honest evaluation and take action. It is good to prepare at least two months in advance before the shoot date.

Hair: If you have been meaning to get rid of the ponytail or grow out the bob, then this is the time (this may require a few extra months). Talk to a professional stylist about a good look for you. Don't forget to ask about color - gray hair never makes anyone look young - the Silver Foxes of the world look sophisticated, if this isn't you, get thee to a colorist (or find a box at the supermarket and wash those grays right out of your hair.)

Face: I have 3 words for you about looking good in a photo. Skin, Skin, Skin! Age doesn't matter if your skin is acne free, moisturized, and glowing. You will shine no matter if you have crows feet or close-set eyes. Without good skin, you are sunk because makeup works best on good skin and retouching can't add that certain something that comes from within. This glow is only reflected by healthy, hydrated skin.

Chubby cheeks an issue? It may be time to drop five or ten pounds. This can only make you feel better when you see the photos. Losing a few pounds is a photographic benefit because anything round appears rounder in photos - not sure why, but it does. Be proactive and leave the bagel at the bakery.

Teeth: Try to get them as white as you can without people calling you "choppers." There are plenty of over the counter whiteners that can do the trick at a low price point. Start a while before your shoot date to get the maximum whitening result.

DURING The Shoot

3. What To Wear: Begin this step by deciding what not to wear. Focus on what will show waist up (in most cases, head and shoulders only will end up in the picture but be prepared). No crazy prints, bold stripes, zigzags, company insignias (unless it's your own company), checks, or over-the-top jewelry EVER. These just don't work because they take the spotlight away from you and while they are memorable, it is not what you want people to remember. 

Bring a number of changes. Be sure to include a few pieces with texture, various necklines, a suit (if appropriate), and several colors that look good on you AND that you feel good wearing. If a yellow blouse makes you appear sallow but the texture and neckline are perfect, pass on it and keep looking. Simple is best, fit is important, be sure it is clothing you would choose to wear out and about.

A warm smile and bright eyes with a plain top, blouse, or shirt speaks volumes. It's about you, not the outfit.

4. Makeup: Everyone needs some in pictures. If you can do your own, make sure it is up to date and correctly applied. If you need help in this department, find a makeup artist but be sure to stress that you want to look like yourself, just better, not an ad campaign for a makeup line. Most photographers have a few makeup artists they can recommend. Again, ask to see a portfolio. Tip: Hire them to do your makeup before the shoot for another event and see how you like the results. 

5. Hair: If the makeup person also does hair, this is a bonus; otherwise, get your hair done, not cut, the day of the shoot. Remember, you have been preparing...get a cut a few weeks before and you won't look like you got your hair cut to take the picture. It will appear more natural, like it will be when you meet people.

6: Face The Camera: Look into the lens and smile (do take some non-smiling shots, too). Act confident and happy to be there; do this and you will see a difference in the photos. If you are nervous or scared, the pictures will show this negative energy.

You have done all the preparation necessary; your hair looks great, your makeup sparkles, your teeth are white - take a deep breath and relax. Trick: If your face is tightening up and you are faking a smile, look away from the camera, close your eyes, and whistle big exaggerated whistles. This will help relax the facial muscles.

Trust the photographer when they tell you to lower your chin or tilt your head. Move slowly for them as they give you adjustments. Think about looking "pretty, handsome, glowing, etc." and you will...the camera can read your energy. It sounds kooky, but it is true.

AFTER The Shoot

7. First Glance: Don't freak out. No one likes to see themselves in pictures. Look for the ones that show your energy and personality. These are usually the best pictures. Just because one might show a bigger smile, if it lacks energy, pass on it. Try to narrow it down to 3 or 4; then narrow it down to 2. Look for pictures with 2 different tops, one smiling, one serious, etc. This is all you will probably need. 

8. Touch Ups: While this is commonplace, be sure the end result looks like you when you walk into a room. Yes, your hair is perfect in the picture, but the overall image should reflect who you are. Don't make the mistake of asking for so much airbrushing, touch up, Photoshop that when you pop up at a party, people think you took the picture 20 years ago. This defeats the whole purpose. 

Good luck, have fun, and remember to enjoy the experience...you are capturing a moment you will never have again. Make the most of this time, be happy to be there, and you will be proud to fill in your blank profile picture with your beautiful new photo!

Text Message Abbreviations: Let Your Fingers Do The Talking

Part I: Letters A - M

It seems no matter where you go these days, someone is typing an email message, a Tweet on Twitter, or texting. The new rules of communication dictate that brevity rules and swiftness is key. Whether your conduit of choice is a cell phone, a Blackberry, a laptop, or a desktop keyboard, the message is loud and clear...There is no need to speak when you can be heard via silent acronyms. Here We Are is here to help your fingers do the talking!

Here R the ABC's 4 U ("Caps" in this list are for an easier read -- not shouting @ U -- HF!):

AAK = Alive and kicking

ADN = Any day now

AEAP = As early as possible

AFAIK = As far as I know

AFK = Away from keyboard

AFN = All for now

ASL = Age Sex Location

AYT = Are you there?

B4 = Before

B4N = Bye for now

BBL = Be back later

BCNU = Be seeing you

BF = Boyfriend

BRB = Be right back

BTW = By the way

CU = See you

CYRMA = Call your mother

DEGT = Don't even go there

DIKU = Do I know you?

DIS = Did I say

DK = Don't know

EG = Evil grin

EM = E-mail  //  EM? = Excuse Me?

EOD = End of discussion

F2F = Face to face

FOCL = Falling off chair laughing

FUBAR = F'd up beyond all recognition

FYEO = For your eyes only

GAL = Get a life

GBH = Great big hug

GF = Girlfriend

GGOH = Gotta get outta here

GJ = Good job

GL = Good luck

GMTA = Great minds think alike

GR&D = Grinning Running & Ducking

GTR = Got to run

HAGD = Have a good day

HAGO = Have a good one

HB = Hurry back

HF = Have fun

H&K = Hugs & kisses

HTH = Hope that helps

IB = I'm back

IC = I see

IDK = I don't know

IDTS = I don't think so

ILU = I love you

IMO = In my opinion // IMHO = In my humble opinion

IRL = In real life

IYKWIM = If you know what I mean

JAS = Just a second

JIC = Just in case

JK = Just kidding

JW = Just wondering

KIT = Keep in touch

KPC = Keeping parents clueless

LMAO = Laughing my ass off // LOL = Laughing out loud

LTNS = Long time no see

LY = Love ya

B sure 2 subscribe 2 HWAwL so U won't miss Pt. 2 of our "Text Message Abbreviations" list!!

Do U have any txt abbr. 2 add? Plz let us know in the comments area below! THX

April Springs With News

April Announcements, Updates, and Reminders

Announcements

1. Here We Are was recently featured in an interview and article at the popular Indie Business Blog! A big thank you to Donna Maria Coles Johnson for highlighting the collaboration with Blue Moon Candles. The article is especially important to us because it is written by a woman helping other women in business and life..the essence of Here We Are.

Lisa Kasper and I appreciate the focus on the collaboration, as well as the help to spread the word about these organic wax candles that are the best you can find anywhere!

2. It's our Anniversary!! Here We Are is six months old today! THANK YOU to all our readers, subscribers, and commenters for joining us, we are pleased to have you with us on this journey. We look forward to the next six months and beyond.

3. The Radio Show has launched! It took a while, but we got there and we are on the air...okay, it's the Internet, but nowadays, isn't it the same thing? Check out our first show featuring Christopher Farella, Esq. He fills us in on "Social Networking: How The Net Tangles Up The Workplace." You will hear interesting, surprising, and up to date information about how this new phenomenon is changing the workplace environment.

Note: Radio Show Listeners, thank you for the emails...We are working on the Here We Are theme song transition music for our future shows, including the upcoming September show, "Much To Do About Divorce -- Positioning Yourself Before You Ask or Are Asked!" Our guest will be matrimonial attorney, Judith A. Hartz, Esq., with all the do's and don'ts about this difficult decision.

Updates

New This Month: In the upper left hand column, you will find the recently added Digg, Facebook, Twitter, and Technorati icons. Click through the icons and feel free to fan, friend, follow, and favorite Here We Are (you may also see the User Name: Lucimac - you are at the right place, that is the company name). The more the merrier and we will reciprocate the follows, friending, etc.

Reminders

1. Feeling overwhelmed by all this inter-connectivity on the web?? Be sure to subscribe to Here We Are so you won't miss our upcoming posts on Twitter; e-mail do's and don'ts; and useful text message translations. Bonus: If you use your email address, you will be eligible for our gift giveaways. (Remember: please "verify" the subscription when you receive the email verification notice AND we never sell/share your information.)

2. It's Gift Giveaway Time!!! Our March gift giveaway's recipient is "Rivergirl" of Maine. Thank you for participating in our request for comments by commenting on our Color of Roses entry. Rivergirl will receive a Blue Moon Candle with lucky Aventurine stones. Enjoy and let us know which flavor you chose with another comment!!

Readers, be sure to think about upcoming gifts you might need. The Blue Moon Candle discount + super-saver shipping rate only lasts until May 31, 2009! 

Keep those comments coming and remember to be selected for one of the Here We Are gift giveaways -- you must subscribe by email.