Hope you had an enjoyable extended weekend. I love this time of year. Summer is officially in full swing with school out, the pool in, and plenty of grilling.

While we aren’t really going anywhere this week, I’m going to spend some time with the family during this short week here at home. We’re also getting the outside of the house painted and while I won’t be doing the painting, (I don’t do ladders) I do need to purchase and install several projects for the outside of the house.

I’ll need to get back to it next week being there’s a Sandals sale coming up next week with YTB Travel Network. (More on that next week.)

In the meantime, the kids and I have plans to do a little swimming, and try to sneak in some time for crafts for Ronda’s birthday next week in the midst of everything else that’s going on.

Have a great week!

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If a company wants to remain relevant in this day in age – it’s got to change with the times. Some companies do a really good job of adapting to new and innovative concepts such as ZamZuu. The companies last quarterly report told us that it now has over 130,000 “free agents” in its program adding more than 35,000 in the first quarter of 2011 alone. In addition, with the bogus law suits now behind the company, the stock is heading in the right direction again.

Others may look like they change and adapt on the surface, like McDonald’s – but when you look below all the hype and look at what’s actually being served – there’s not much difference. (Only McDonald’s can turn something like oatmeal into junk food.)

Then we have a very unique class of Traditional Travel Agents – who make no attempts whatsoever to change or adapt. Apparently, it’s everyone else who needs to resist the changing times and technology to suit their wishes and desires. (Which begs the question – “How’s that workin’ for ya?”)

Another company that’s been making a move of late is Wal-Mart.

Wal-Mart is a strange bird if you ask me. There really isn’t any middle road for most consumers when it comes to this company. You either love it – or you loath the name Wal-Mart. I really like the story of Wal-Mart because it did what most “experts” claimed couldn’t be done. Call it a flaw if you’d like – but I happen to like companies that prove the so called “experts” wrong. (Thus, why I’m still with YTB Travel Network.) Just because it’s never been done before is no excuse to lay claims that it can’t be done. Where there’s a strong will – there’s always a way.

However, because Wal-Mart dissed the “experts” and decided to do the unthinkable anyway, it does have its share of people who can’t stand the sight or thought of Wal-Mart. (A rather personal and selfish attitude if you want to know the truth.)

Recently, I caught wind of a new book “Force of Nature: The Unlikely Story of Wal-Mart’s Green Revolution” that I’m most likely going to order. One, because I love reading about business, and two, I’m into the green revolution myself. Not to mention another article just yesterday that mentioned the book for the umpteenth time that prompted this post.

The article referenced leads me to believe that doubters are at it again – questioning if Wal-Mart is making the right move here. It is after all – about the bottom line which most people equate to actual customers walking through the checkout line with products in hand.

Fact is – being green these days is not only cool, but it’s the responsible and right thing to do. In addition, the savings recognized goes right to Wal-Marts bottom line. Some of the examples given in the articles I’ve read have been quite remarkable and worthy of praise when we’re talking a sustainable business.

The jury may still be out if this green initiative for Wal-Mart is going to add more customers. It’s certainly a viable option for this family, especially when it comes to a convenient location for organic products and produce. For us, the word “organic” overrides any misgivings or disdain for what Wal-Mart has or hasn’t done in the past. It supplies a much needed resource for a healthier more sustainable lifestyle.

For us – that’s definitely “cool”.

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I know all about the stereotype that guys typically don’t remember their anniversary.

Well…most guys don’t have a wife like mine.

Today, Ronda and I celebrate our 14 year wedding anniversary, and I wouldn’t trade her, or a second of our life together for anything in the world.

Growing up, I always had this image in my head of what marriage was like. Probably the most important quality I was looking for came from my own parents who will celebrate their 50th anniversary in just a couple of years.

See, the meaning of marriage actually has something of value to us. We made vows to each other to love, honor, and cherish each other – till death do us part. Granted, we’re both human, and there have been times in the last 14 years when we don’t show as much love as we should. But the fundamental commitment we made to each other is important to us because of our core values as individuals. Our vows are more than just words, and something we honor because of who we are.

Over the last year, and more so over the last few months, we’ve gotten much closer as a couple. My soul mate has always been supportive of my dreams and desires. Lately, I’ve been able to support her in her passion for singing and goals that she has as an individual. Watching her go after this has been a wonderful experience because I know it’s what truly in her heart. She’s blossomed all over again, and I’ve fallen even more in love with her because of it.

While her singing hasn’t worked out exactly the way she’s planned, her new assertiveness and gut instinct has her on the cusp of a truly tremendous opportunity that has literally fallen right into her lap. (It’s not a done deal just yet, but everything is lining up smoother than silk.)

Just as she’s been supportive of me throughout our marriage in my dreams and desires – I’ve actually learned from her what type of support she needs to be truly happy and fulfilled. People love the way they want to be loved themselves. It’s our most natural state – and if you think about it, it makes perfect sense.

I couldn’t be happier to support her in this way because I couldn’t be more honored to have this beautiful, caring, intelligent, and supportive babe as my wife. She’s always been everything I’ve ever dreamed of – even now. If I had to do it all over again, I can’t think of a better, more loving and supportive person to do it with.

She’s my fantasy, my soul mate, my dream come true. I couldn’t be more honored to call this woman my wife.

Princess. Thank you for the most wonderful time of my life. It includes more than just our marriage, because I loved you even before our first date. (And it was the best first date of my entire life.) You’re my best friend, my soul mate, the woman of my dreams – and I can’t thank you enough for being who you are as a wife, a mother, and a friend.

I’ve never been more optimistic about our future together because of what we’ve experienced in our past. You’ve shown me time and time again how special you really are – and I love you more this moment than the day we both said “I do” and meant it. You my love truly are my “permanent wife”.

I can’t thank you enough. I love you! Happy Anniversary!

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You just might exceed you’re wildest dreams!

Before I get started on today’s topic – I wanted to thank everyone for the birthday wishes last week. I was flooded with over one hundred posts on my Facebook wall, got several calls, and personal e-mails as well wishing me a happy birthday. It’s AWESOME having so many friends who take the time to think of you. I had a wonderful week with my kids who were off from school for spring break and we enjoyed our time together. They’re now back for the last haul, straight through till the summer break.

While I was off enjoying my family time, ZamZuu had a product launch last week, that perfectly illustrates the pure power of Network Marketing for any business who opts for this model as a distribution channel. I’ve seen this happen over and over in this industry and it’s probably the biggest reason why businesses choose MLM for their products. During my tenure with YTB and ZamZuu, I can rattle off products or services right off the top of my head that have been successful. This particular launch with a brand new company tops any that I can recall right out of the gate.

Here’s the timeline:

Last Tuesday afternoon, ZamZuu sends out an e-mail to all Store Owners and Free Agents announcing a new coffee line called GanoVia Gourmet Coffee. The e-mail described the features, advantages and benefits of the new product – with a special introductory promotion for anyone wanting to give it a try. Within minutes, Facebook pages exploded with links, tweets announced this new coffee line nobody’s ever heard of, and blogs started promoting the new line of coffee. Even Anti-MLM Zealots put down their “hateraide” to promote it for us. (Who knew?!)

[Side Note: The "hateraide" bit - from my oldest nephew and told him I had the perfect application for it.]

As a result, without spending a single penny in advertising or promotion for this new line of coffee – GanoVia Gourmet Coffee sold out of their inventory within 24 hours from massive sales produced by the buzz in cyber space and word of mouth exposure from ZamZuu Site Owners and Free Agents.

That my friend is the power of Network Marketing in action. Exactly why a business would choose MLM as their preferred distribution model.

I’ve seen this work many times over – both in the travel industry with YTB Travel and from the ZamZuu shopping sites. The first I really saw of it in the shopping sites was with the insurance quotes the company offers. The company was blown away not just by the quantity of quotes it garnered – but in the quality of the leads generated by the ZamZuu sales force. The woman of ZamZuu have absolutely fallen in love with Gina Alexander handbags and the owner, oddly enough name Gina Alexander, absolutely adores our company. For myself personally, and from running into so many discontents and bizarre behavior out on the internet I’m a personal fan of KidZafe which gives me the added peace of mind as my own kids begin to surf the internet.

All different products – all different industries – but they all not only work in the MLM model but thrive in our business model because referral marketing is by far the most powerful form of advertising there is.

Anyone who doesn’t get that really needs to have their head examined.

While GanoVia is scrambling to replenish their supply of coffee – you better believe they’re tickled beyond words how much coffee they sold right out of the gate. Can’t think of a better way to launch a product – especially when you’re not out of pocket for advertising with all sales go directly to your bottom line.

It’s a model that began 125 years ago with another unknown called “The California Perfume Company”. If you don’t recognize the name, they changed it in 1939 to something you probably have heard of – Avon. Models like ours last frankly because they work just as well today as they did back then.

In closing, the next time you see an individual underestimating the power and reach of Network Marketing – just know it happens in business too. Not everyone realizes (or in some cases admits) how powerful it really is. For any new or existing business wanting to get instant exposure from a massive sales force – without the risk or budget of an advertising campaign, MLM is certainly the way to go.

In the case of GanoVia Gourmet Coffee it exceeded all expectations.

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I love this time of year. Of course here in Atlanta everything outside turns this lime green color from all the pollen in the air. I’ve been living here since 1992 and still not use to seeing such thick pollen you actually see it on everything.

It’s a big week this week and I’ll be taking some time off, but still wanted to write something this week.

Today happens to be my birthday, and I’m hoping that nobody catches on that I’ve been celebrating 29 for who knows how long. We’ll do our traditional Publix birthday cake (a birthday isn’t a birthday without a Publix birthday cake!) and head on over to Provino’s Italian Restaurant for dinner tonight with the family where your birthday dinner is free! (Whoo Hooo!)

The kids also have the week off for Spring Break and we have some special events planned with them. Other than storms coming in Tuesday night the weather should be absolutely perfect this week!

The kids also want to ride around this week in “the coolest car ever”. We have a new (used) convertible as part of the family. A Chrysler Sebring JXi, which is just the ticket after a rough couple of weeks with only one car. Yours truly totaled our 300M a couple weeks ago after plowing into a deer in the middle of I-85.

Ideally, we were going after a hybrid and that’s still in the cards, just at a later date. We’ll tackle a new hybrid later this year when the budget allows for it and the down payment is where we want it. The leading candidate right now is the Ford Escape Hybrid, which we owned once before. (Although a hybrid wasn’t even an option back then.)

And we can’t forget that it’s Masters Week. Won’t be going to a practice round or Tournament Round this year and I’m due. Still have the connections – but like the last couple of years, it sneaks up on me. Practice rounds to me are the way to see this course. Just more laid back and you don’t have to worry about missing “the shot” while watching in Hi-Def at home. I’ll never forget the first year I went probably 10 years ago now. Augusta National is absolutely pristine and hallowed ground. Once you’ve been there, it changes the entire view of the course on television.

All Masters shirts are pressed and ready to be worn this week. (The only time of year I really ever wear them.)

Before I close, I wanted to add a special congratulations to Melissa Boston, YTB/ZamZuu’s newest Circle of Champions Director. For those of you in YTB – you know what that means in regards to earnings. We’ve known Melissa for some time and she’s one of the most dynamic speakers and presenters we’ve seen in any company, let alone YTB. Smart business woman too. She surrounded herself with other smart business minds and worked steadily to achieve her goal. We couldn’t be happier for her.

We couldn’t be happier for the company either. By Melissa reaching the Circle of Champions at this point in time, it’s a clear sign that the the company is growing and could signal other top level Directors who will move into this level of achievement. (That should rattle some cages, huh?)

Here’s one last point before heading out to enjoy my week.

Name me one other business model where a Representative of the company can earn more than the CEO, Founders or other Top Executives? Name me one other company where someone can earn more than the people above them period. Doesn’t happen in any other business than Network Marketing folks. You can talk all you want about the theories you’ve heard, average everything out like some Socialist society all you want. The reality of it is, folks like Melissa Boston do happen. That’s real world – not some trumped up fear mongering line of BS.

But alas – much like the fact that there has never been a single example of any MLM or Networking company running out of “suckers” – this myth about all the poeple at the top making all the money will undoubtedly live on. You have a choice you know. You could follow dumb schmucks who’ve never had an ounce of experience in the industry – or take a tip or two from people who not only know the truth, but aren’t intimidated one bit by it.

Enjoy your week! (We will!)

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UPDATE: It was hard for Ronda to get any type of reading on the judges. She felt confident and sang very well – but in a cattle call of thousands, the judges appeared glazed over with her entire audition group. The most difficult part of this whole thing – it’s now a waiting game. She won’t find out if she made it until late March or early April!

I sometimes joke that when I moved to Atlanta, I found and then married a true Southern Belle and it was the best move I’ve ever made.

It’s hard to believe that we’ve been married for almost 14 years now. The time sure has flown by and we’re more in love with each other than the day we were married.

One of the best parts about our life together is how we support each other. Our vows to love, honor, and cherish mean just as much to her as they do me. That’s not to say we always agree, (we are individuals) but we do support each other no matter what that choice may be. Marriage and vows actually mean something to both of us and that’s a trait that’s hard to find in this day and age.

She said that I was the one who swept her off her feet when we first met. I gave her self-confidence back, and helped her with that “can do” attitude again. Oddly enough, I think it was just the opposite. The fact that this gorgeous, talented woman picked me to not only hang with but take care of makes me grateful to this day.

I’ve never been a big fan of reality shows, or talent shows on TV. I’d much rather watch paint dry than spend time watching American Idol. (As much as I love Steven Tyler and the music of Aerosmith – sorry.) However, there may be a change in interest this season.

See, my super model, super talented wife (at least she’s been that for me that last 14 years) is heading down to Atlanta tomorrow morning to try out for America’s Got Talent.

How cool is that?!

While her best talents have been reserved for here at home, taking care of her family the last 14 years, she’s got the voice of an angel that she wants to share with the rest of the world. Hopefully she’ll be singing for America during this upcoming season doing what she truly enjoys in her heart.

Both of us grew up and spent our early adult life entertaining. Theater and radio are on both our early resumes. Ronda also won several pageants here in Georgia and spent time singing across the state when she won contests in her teens.

Like so many of us, the days of “dreaming” were somehow replaced with “reality” and our lives took on a new direction and new meaning to conform with the rest of society. I’ve always known about her dreams because we’ve talked about her desire to sing many times over the years. Singing is what she truly wanted to do. We’ve talked about it, and she would consider it, but this is the first time she’s actually pulling the trigger to go after it.

And I couldn’t be more thrilled because it’s truly what she wants to do.

As her husband, I was the first to hear about her desire to sing for this show. When she asked, my first reaction was “you could crush this”, and while I never pushed, I always supported this direction because I know how happy she is singing. The desire grew as she researched and thought about songs to sing for the audition. Before long, other family members and neighbors began to hear about her audition and intent.

The family has always known about her voice, and when neighbors and friends heard her sing, they too became supporters.

It’s yet to be determined if the judges here in Atlanta will also become supporters, or if the judges on the show will give her an opportunity to travel to Las Vegas and Hollywood to let the rest of America decide. She’s committed to the challenge however, and no matter what happens over the course of the next few months with the show, she’s going after her dreams.

Joseph Campbell said it best in his quote “Follow your bliss.”

I couldn’t be happier nor prouder of her. She deserves it.

Congratulations Princess, I love you and you certainly have my vote!

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Our family is enjoying the winter break together. Everyone in the family loves this time of year. We all get into the spirit of Christmas. It starts the weekend before Thanksgiving when we decorate the house with lights and a tree. We’re always the first in the neighborhood to have Christmas lights up – it gives us more time to enjoy other lights. We’ve spent part of the week cruising neighborhoods to look at lights. We do it every year – and while there are favorite neighborhoods, we always find new displays to gaze at.

Our youngest asked the question if Christmas was celebrated around the world. We had a very simple “yes” for him while enjoying the lights. When we got home however, we found the perfect e-mail that was forwarded to us that helped illustrate an answer to his question.

Our youngest suggested that we put up a copy on “Daddy’s Blog” so everyone can see. We were only to happy to oblige, and it gave the two of us some quality time together as we learned where each location was on “Google Maps”. We’re not sure when or where this piece originated, and you can find several copies on the internet.

Enjoy!

The Capitol Christmas tree in Washington, D.C., is decorated with 3,000 ornaments that are the handiwork of U.S. schoolchildren. Encircling evergreens in the ‘Pathway of Peace’ represent the 50 U.S. states.

Merry Christmas!

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