I am sick to death of adware/spyware infestations. I am mad as heck at the people who create the stuff and am growing more and more frustrated every day by their victims. Don't get me wrong - I'm not blaming the victims for the problem. What I am doing is setting down a list of preventive steps that everyone who uses a computer and goes online can easily understand and practice. This is my longest article to date, but I hope you have the patience to read it through. It's well worth your time and I promise it's not boring.


#1: (and this one will cause lots of grumbling) Stop using Internet Explorer!


I know it's easy to use. I know you have all your Favorites bookmarked. I know you've used it forever and just plain don't want to learn something new. Unless you live in a cave, you've no doubt heard of the rising popularity of Mozilla Firefox, an alternative browser. I don't use it myself because I already use another good alternative, Opera. The point I'm making is that there ARE alternatives that are not susceptible to the pests that plague IE.


Now, I don't want to sound like a Microsoft basher. I'm not. The problem is that since MS is the big dog on the block, they have more little dogs out there trying to bring them down. The Windows operating system is the operating system most often targeted by viruses. The Windows browser, Internet Explorer, is the browser that's currently targeted by sleazy adware / spyware / malware / consumerware / whatever-you-want-to-call-it-ware creators. Why? Because they can reach the biggest online audience out there. Until the Microsoft people get better at security, and they ARE trying, we as consumers have every right to use a more pest-resistant product, don't you think?


#2: Use a Real-time Spyware scanning program


If you're one of those people who insist on using Internet Explorer, then you need to take steps to protect yourself. I'm sure just about everybody has anti-virus software installed these days. If you don't, you're either not online or you like to live dangerously while you are. Viruses are not the only harmful pests that you have to worry about anymore. In 2004, IT directors everywhere identified Malware
(I decided to use this term for the type of programs I talked about in #1) as the biggest cause of productivity loss and PC damage within their networks. Judging from the amount of e-mail I receive and the number of computers I have personally cleaned up, it seems to be a big problem for home PC users as well.


There are some very good programs on the market, some of which are free like Ad-Aware and Spybot Search & Destroy. These are particularly effective when you use them along with a real-time scanner. The key is to perform scans on a regular basis and keep those spyware definitions updated. Install the Yahoo Toolbar with Anti-Spy and run it each time you get ready to leave the Internet. My personal favorite real-time scanner is Spysweeper by Webroot. CounterSpy by Sunbelt-Software is another good real-time scanning program. Both are available as trial programs and charge yearly subscription fees after the trial period is over. Those fees range from $19.95 to $29.95. Bill Gates is offering the new MS Anti-Spyware for free when it gets out of BETA, but it only works with Windows 2000 and later. Believe me, if you have to call a pro to salvage your computer, you'll pay a minimum of $50 upfront just to have them look at it and tell you you're infected. After that, the charge gets bigger depending on how long it takes to get your system cleaned up and back to operating normally. Sometimes, that isn't possible and you end up having them reformat your hard drive and reinstall the operating system. If you haven't backed up your data externally, you might lose that, too. There are programs out there that will help you relocate your data but they're going to cost you $29.95 or more. So, you've spent $79.95 and you haven't even fixed the problem yet. I'm sure you see where I'm going with this. The cost of a good real-time scanning program is well worth the investment.


#4: PAY ATTENTION to what you see on the Internet


Do not under any circumstances click inside an advertising window
that pops up unsolicited while you're surfing and please don't download a program from one. Yes, I know there's an icon inside the window where you can close it. Yes, I know there's an option to cancel. If someone is going to be unethical enough to plague you with a pop-up window, do you really trust what's inside that window? Always use the x in the top right hand corner of the window to close it. Also, never respond to an Unsolicited Commercial E-mail (spam) that advertises a program you can purchase over the Internet. Don't click that link!


#5: Google it!


If you just can't resist downloading the latest FREE program from the Internet, at least do your homework. Do a search on Google or Yahoo or MSN to find out more about it before you download. I like to type in the name of the program followed by "problems" or "user reviews." Don't stop at visiting the websites you find. Google has a neat feature that you can access by clicking on the word Groups that appears above the search box on Google's homepage. This is a collection of postings to forums and newsgroups that are discussing the very program you're thinking of downloading.


#6: READ THE EULA!


Remember that just because a program is available as a download on cnet.com, that doesn't mean it's going to be ad-free. Take the time to read the End User License Agreement before you click OK. If there isn't one, stop right there! The software manufacturer is required by law to disclose in the EULA the conditions on which you are downloading and using their software. You have to agree to the EULA before you can download the program. If you ever want to read something scary, try reading a Microsoft EULA. Once you've agreed to the terms, you can no longer claim to be an unsuspecting victim.


#7: Beware of file-sharing programs


If you keep up with CNET's Downloads of the Week, you'll see several file-sharing programs in the top 10. Napster changed the way we get our music forever. Since there are free versions of the most popular file-sharing programs out there, you have to stop and think that if you aren't paying for them, then somebody is. That somebody is probably bundling ads along with the free program in order to keep it free. There are paid versions of the same programs (i.e. Bearshare) that are ad-free. For my opinion on that, see #3. Also be very aware of the sites your children are visiting. According to a recent article by Andy McCue at www.silicon.com, sites directed toward children are often the worst offenders when it comes to downloading free programs or games that are bundled with adware. Don't let junior download anything on your computer until you've had the chance to READ THE EULA!



#8: Stay informed about what's happening in the Spyware community


I subscribe to Spyware Info by Mike Healen and receive newsletters from Sunbelt-Software (WinXP and Win2K News). I also frequent the Spyware Warrior Site maintained by Eric Howes and Suzi and watch
alerts from ZDNet News. Another good source of information is Adware ReportKnow thine enemy!!

#9: Follow your instincts



If you have to ask yourself if downloading a program is such a good idea, then it probably isn't. Just follow the steps above to assure yourself that you're not just being paranoid. When it comes to downloading files from the Internet, it pays to be paranoid!


My goal in writing this article was to get rid of the headache I've had all morning from dealing with people who have carelessly let their PCs reach a state of total uselessness. If they had only followed the simple steps I outlined above, I probably wouldn't have this headache and they would probably still be happily surfing the Internet pest-free! Don't be a victim, intentional or unintentional. Develop safe surfing habits and teach them to your kids. You'll be glad
you did.



Paige Eissinger started 2 Smart Chix LLC in 1999 to fulfill the website
needs of small business and non-profit organizations. She designs and maintains attractive, informational websites that fit within small budgets. In 2003, she joined Roger Creighton as co-host of PC Primer, a local call-in radio show. Roger and Paige answer caller questions about everything from computer hardware and software to digital cameras and everything in between.

Okay. So money doesn't really grow on trees. Unless you plant your own Mighty Money Tree, that is!


Imagine that only a few moments ago you planted a young sapling in your back yard. You gave it just enough water to ensure a good start. Not too much, not too little. You even propped it up with a stake. You'll continue to nurture it, feed it, water it.


And with each passing year, your tender young sapling will grow stronger. Taller. Healthy. As it ages, your tree can better defend itself from natural predators. Even harsh weather.


Growing your savings account is similar to growing your new tree. Given lots of tender care, your savings account will become your Mighty Money Tree. Use the following tips to ensure a great start. So, grab your shovel and let's get planting!



Prop Up Your New Savings Account


To build an account you can enjoy for a lifetime, prop it up with nutrients to help it grow.

1. Feed your account with bonuses. Deposit money saved through cancelled subscriptions. Don't forget those unexpected windfalls, either. How about money owed and paid back to you? Be sure to include these amounts, even if they're small. Small is great -- and very do-able.
   
2. Nurture your savings weekly with money saved from using coupons.
   Do you buy items on sale? Take that money you saved and use it to grow your account. Tuck small amounts into an envelope. Deposit weekly.
   
3. Shower your fund with birthday, anniversary or holiday gifts of money. Refunds, too! This is money you normally wouldn't have had (or already spent.)

Remember, out of sight, out of mind!


Fiercely Protect From Natural Enemies


Just as you might spray your tree to ward off insects or disease, you must protect your fledgling savings account. It's precious -- and a result of your patience.

1. Avoid spending too much time with others who make it seem natural to go through money. They may not give it much thought because spending is a comfortable habit for them. But you actually have a plan. And you have the big picture of how and when you'll spend. You will decide the where and why of spending your money. Make your spending thoughtful.
   
2. Pace yourself as you spend your weekly allotment of money. If you run on $35 per week (for example), that gives you five dollars per day. Stay just under that five, and you'll always be a few dollars ahead. You'll also be less tempted to tap your savings.
   
3. Practice tough love with chronic spenders who repeatedly borrow your money. Give yourself permission to state firmly that borrowing your money is not an option. Remove the stakes that prop up others' spending.

Say yes to protecting and taking care of your money. It will be there to support you, your family, and your true needs.



Promote and Maintain Healthy Growth
Small amounts add up big time, so keep money coming into your account on a regular basis. Keep it growing!

1. Remember why you set up your account. Know your balance at all times. Keep your eye on the bigger picture. Will it help you pay for a gently used car, eliminating future car payments year after year? Is it your freedom from working for others fund?
   
2. Begin with one great strategy, and use it to create a steady stream of money to feed your account. Will it be a direct deposit through payroll? Will you fund it by using only dollar bills, and setting aside all change at the end of each day? If so, scoop up your change and deposit weekly.
   
3. Each month, find a new, creative way to put more money in your account. Then find another method and repeat for a month. Keep the top three or four methods which seem to work best for you. Toss the rest, because you want methods that work for you consistently. Need a starting point? Why not begin with spending ten dollars less at the store each week? Tuck your ten bucks into your savings account. It's simple, and it won't leave you feeling deprived.

Lastly, feel the wonder of knowing that your money tree will continue to grow. Like a faithful friend, it will remain at your side. Your
champion in good times, a comfort in the rough patches of life.


It has the power to draw your dream out of the darkness and into
the light. How long have you had that private, special dream? Only you can know.


Now, what would you do with your own Mighty Money Tree? Plant one today! Prop it up. Protect it. Watch it grow.


© 2004 Darlene Arechederra



Author and ezine editor Darlene Arechederra
inspires busy women to put the fun back into saving their money.
Her complimentary newsletter serves up heaps of motivation with
a unique, down-home style of writing. Join her today at RatRaceRemedies.

Beauty in chaos? No, I'm not on drugs! I've been struggling to see the upside of all the recent changes in my home, personal, and business life. . . and there are a lot!


I came home Monday night to find my backyard had been replaced with a huge hole! I am currently building an addition onto my house. I hadn't anticipated the work beginning for another couple of weeks. So, imagine my surprise when I returned to a rectangular hole the size of a large in-ground pool and about 12 feet deep. The change that upset me most was my pink azaleas smooshed to smithereens.


Lots of changes, lots of chaos in my world right now: winning the marketing makeover, figuring out where I want to go with Vermont Shortbread Company, figuring out a new relationship, my full time technical writing work demands, getting myself on track financially after struggling as a single parent for many years. This is all good, really. I've created these changes, so what's the chaos and stress all about?


I think my gremlins like the status quo. Our gremlins (for me, the fear gremlin) are threatened by change. The fear gremlin doesn't like bold, big leaps. What's it going to complain about and be victimized by when I reframe old beliefs about why I couldn't find love, or why I couldn't grow my business, or why I was always broke?



The beauty in chaos, for me, means that things are beginning to shift. My gremlins are going to put up a huge stink. I'm going to treat them with kindness, for they do serve a purpose, but I am not going to let them run the show.


Here are my tried and true techniques for coping with chaos:

1. Take small bites out of overwhelm. For instance, today I am planning my day hour by hour. What goal do I want to achieve in the next hour? If that seems like too much, break it into smaller increments. I know this method works well. I used it to run my first marathon many years ago. I didn't run 26.2 miles. I ran 1 mile 26.2 times.
   
2. Sleep and eat. It sounds like an obvious solution. I forget to eat when I am stressed. In the midst of chaos, I schedule my meals and sleep, making darn sure I get at least 7 hours of sleep a night and eating foods that make me feel good from the inside out (yes, that means I have my chocolate bar AFTER lunch instead of FOR lunch).
   
3. Tackle one item that scares you most as the first to-do of your day. The high it will give you carries you through the day.
   
4. Meditate, pray, practice self-hypnosis- whatever puts you in touch with your personal higher being, even if only for 10 minutes.
   
5. Recognize the gifts in your discomfort. Think of a time when you blasted through something you were convinced you couldn't do. How does it feel to plow through pain, trust the process and give birth to something great on the other side? Chaos and change are like labor. You must trust in your own process, recognize the difference between heatlhy and unhealthy pain and know that you are giving birth to something you can't wait to welcome!

The huge hole in my backyard is ugly and scary to me right now. But, it's
just a hole. It isn't good or bad. And I intend to fill it with
a beautiful home filled with people I love.



Ann is a freelance senior technical writer
and an entrepreneur: an eclectic combination of left brain techno-nerd
and right brain artist. By day she writes for IBM and by night she
develops her business, Vermont Shortbread Company. Ann recently
won a marketing makeover for Vermont Shortbread. Read about her
marketing adventure.

Labels: From the Editor

1. Your "best" goals arise from a field of both inspiration and action; both are required for ultimate success. Choose goals that "scrill" ­ a combination of scare and thrill ­ you. Ask: at the end of my life, what would be the successes that I would look back on with the most pride and pleasure? What goals would be a great expression of the unique and wonderful person I am? What would be most meaningful? What would I like my great-great grandchildren to know about my life? If my fairy godmother told me I could do anything with guaranteed success, what would I choose to do? What would a wild woman do, think, be?
   
2. Understand that achieving your cherished goals will take you out of your "comfort zone," defined as "that barren area that surrounds you and within which nothing new will grow." The boundaries of your comfort zone are always fears and fear exists only in your thoughts. You are in charge of your thoughts and can change them at any moment to suit yourself, your goals, and desires.
   
3. "Failure" also exists only in your thoughts. Failure is simply a label we apply to experiences that don't create the results we want. Change your label to ULOs ­ Unique Learning Experiences. Ask what did I learn from this? How can I use it on my next try? Watch a baby learning to walk. Babies all know how to fail. Simply adopt the fall down/get up attitude you had while learning to walk. You’ll never fail again. Wild women fail with enthusiasm.
   
4. If there is any part of you in the habit of thinking of yourself as a failure, a loser, someone who is not deserving of good things and the realization of your dreams, recognize that you learned to think of yourself that way. Resolve to change your thought habit into one that serves you and your goals. If your thought habit is deeply ingrained, particularly if it was learned under stress or searing emotional conditions, it will take time and focused effort to change. Please persevere! Wild women don't quit.
   
5. Believe in your goals more than you believe in "reality." Likely your reality is a motivator for your goals and dreams. If you focus on, and believe in, "reality," you will simply perpetuate the status quo. Spend time everyday visualizing, nurturing and loving your dreams and goals. . . and yourself.
   
6. Accept the fact that the road to success is rarely, if ever, straight, well-lit, and freshly paved. The bumps and potholes are blessings in disguise. As you overcome them, you GROW in competence and confidence.
   
7. Recognize that your best dreams and goals may (probably will) rattle the boundaries of the comfort zones of family, co-workers, and friends. Gently and lovingly remind them and yourself that you retain the right to be mistress of your own life. Wild women choose their own standards and rules for living. Refuse to give anyone else your power by sacrificing your cherished goals for anyone else's psychological comfort.
   
8. Spend some time with your heroes ­ people you admire who have overcome great odds. If you can't meet them in person, find them at your local library. All of us need to be inspired. Dose yourself often.
   
9. Be willing to let Spirit, God, Allah, Higher Power or whatever name you use partner with you. With Divine inspiration and connection to Ultimate Source, you are unbeatable. Give thanks repeatedly and often for the realization ("I'ze makin' it real.") of your goal, as if you had already accomplished it.
   
10. Frequently and often, imagine how you will feel when the goal is realized. See it in vivid color, hear the sounds you will hear,what people will be saying to you, feel the hugs and pats on the back, see yourself and what you will be wearing, what you be will smelling. Play that mental movie over and over. While struggling (for years!) with my doctoral dissertation, I visualized putting on that brilliant scarlet robe with the deep black velvet bands on the sleeves hundreds of times.
    
11. Develop "bi-ocular" vision ­ the ability to keep one eye on your goal and one eye on the task of the moment. What can I do right now, even if it's only the tiniest step? Let it be okay if all you can do is think about your goal. Thinking about it will advance your progress.
    
12. While hiking the Appalachian Trail, I sometimes found myself struggling up the side of a mountain that seemed overwhelmingly hard. I learned to remind myself, "No mountain goes up forever." There are certainly times when they seem to, but with continued steps forward toward your goal you will achieve it. Congratulations!
    
13. Set another goal!

Rita Losee is an InspirACTional speaker, coach, and consultant.

2 Smart Chix LLC offers web design services, customized training in technology related topics and help for people who are new to computers and the Internet. Don't be Afraid to Cross the Technology Road...Get to the Other Side with 2 Smart Chix!

Our mission is to Enrich Women's Lives each day.  To learn more about one of the largest skin care and color cosmetics in the world, visit me at Mary Kay Cosmetics.

Question 1:

How do I convince my aging in-laws with declining health that it's time to give up the home they started raising a family in over 40 years ago and move to a retirement community?


JD:

That's a great question and not an easy one to answer. The easiest way is to entice them somehow. Do they have any friends that live in a retirement community? If so, would they be willing to help you with this?



If not, I would casually bring it up in conversation. Maybe you randomly mention how a friend's mother broke her hip, but thank goodness she was in this amazing community where people are around 24/7 just in case something like this should happen.


No matter how you approach it, subtle and gentle is probably best (though I don't know your in-laws). The idea is to point out the advantages to them. Change is not easy, but it is usually for a good reason.


KP:

Unfortunately you can't always convince others of what you think is best for them. Many aging people feel pressure to give up what they have worked a lifetime to get. This pressure can cause resentment and hurt feelings. Have you asked if they are interested in moving out of their home of 40 years? Do they have health issues that require assistance? Is the house too much work for them now? If the answer is no to these questions you may need to rethink your motive. It is easy to become the "bad" in law by trying to push them out of their home.


It might be best to have a family heart to heart with them to voice concerns for their future. Are there immediate health issues that need to be dealt with or do they have a year or two before a change is necessary? They may surprise you and have a plan already. Plant the thought but let them make the decision--not you or their children.


Another issue to consider is how their children feel about all of this. If they are not worried about it why are you? If you are afraid of the elder care burden then you need to voice that to your spouse and the siblings before trying to "convince" your in laws of anything. Always remember if our children are the heart of our family our
aging are the soul. Without them we are empty.



NM:

Your question raises others in my mind. Is there general agreement among others in the family that your in-laws need to move out? Is it your job to persuade them to make a major life change, rather than your spouse's job? And why are you convinced that moving out of their home is the only workable solution to their situation?



If you decide to take this on yourself for whatever reason, I am going to assume that you have established a good relationship with them, based on mutual respect and caring. From that basis (and only from that basis), raise the PROBLEM rather than proposing a solution. Ask them if they have thought of different options for long-term care and how you can help (doing research, bringing them for site visits, etc.). Your in-laws may have other options besides leaving their home.



If it's gone farther than that - for example, they really should be out of their home NOW because they're in danger - or they have impaired mental functioning and you or your spouse don't have power of attorney, you may need help from others in your familiy and from a professional, like a social worker or a family therapist. The
retirement community you may already be looking at can probably refer you to someone who can help with this.



However your conversation proceeds, remember to be compassionate, respectful, and open to their ideas. Good luck!



Question 2
How do you point someone in a direction for help without discussing the real issue?



JD:
I would do this through story-telling. If I tell a story about how something happened to me and how I resolved it in a positive way, then people are inclined to listen. You may want to make the parallel between your story and the "real" issue at hand, but in a positive
light. Otherwise, the person may be put on the defensive.



KP:

Your approach will depend on your closeness to the person. Is it a close friend, family member, co-worker or acquantance? This can be a tough, touchy thing. Are you sure it would not be better to discuss the real issue or will the person run from you/it? Are you overstepping your boundaries by touching on the subject?


If the person is in any true danger from spousal abuse, addiction, depression, a more direct approach might be appropriate.
I have always found by keeping the focus on myself in a conversation I can convey a message without insulting or hurting the other person. I tend to use my own experience and what I did to better things. I am open with the steps taken to change my situation. Hearing a similar story may be what the person needs to open up or seek help.


NM:

Why does the person need help? If you don't have enough of a relationship with someone to discuss a real issue, you probably don't have any business trying to help - subtle or not subtle. Unless the person is in clear danger or is doing something to offend you, my advice is to leave well enough alone. Most people aren't subtle enough to get a hint, or, if they are, may find a hint much more offensive than a direct, respectful approach.



Question 3:



How do I encourage someone who has the potential that they can do a business even though there are two other people in the community doing the same business?



JD:

This is where niche marketing is helpful. I would help this person make a list of their hobbies and/or fortes and find a way to combine the list with their business. There is a refined target audience that is waiting to be tapped. It's this person's job to find a way to make the parallel.


NM:

Convincing someone else to undertake a business is risky. Your friend is the one who will be putting time, money, and creativity on the line in order to start a business, whereas you're not a stakeholder.



If you are truly convinced that your friend should start this business, suggest that she put together a business plan "just as an exercise." Perhaps the plan, which will take into account the local competition, will convince her that there is enough business out there for her endeavor to succeed. Even if she decides the business is not viable, the exercise of putting together a business plan may inspire her in other directions.



KP:

As a direct seller I have had that fear. Will I sabotage my own potential customer base by signing my neighbor? Unless you both only run in all the same circles, work in the same place and have all the same extended family it is safe to say that each person would find success despite the close proximity. Help them to think outside the box. We use the FRANK list. Friends, Relatives, Acquantances,
Neighbors, Kids. Have them list everyone they know or know of. They may be surprised by how long the lists are. These are their initial potential customer base. Next have them highlight anyone who would be strongly interested in the product or service. There is the first contact list. Now they need to act as if they have already signed on. This gives them great practice and if they have sales then they have true incentive to move forth with the business.


Question 4:

How do you manage your time and stay focused working from home?



JD:

I ask myself this question every day! What I try to do is make a list of things that need to get done within the day. I include on that list my meals, my naps, and the gym. I then try to break it down into timed intervals. I've noticed that I may not stay STRICTLY on time AND I may switch task orders around, but I get 99% of it done! Try it for a day or two and see what happens!


NM:

Put a lock on your refrigerator and give someone else the key.


Seriously, time management at home is much like time management in an office. The difference is that you need clearer boundaries at home. Create a schedule so that you will be working during certain times of a day and NOT working other times. During work time, don't do personal errands, answer personal emails, or accept personal
phone calls. During personal or family time, don't do work or accept work-related phone calls. You may offend a few people and have to do some serious negotiating with business life, but it's worth your sanity.



KP:



This is something I struggle with as well. It is difficult to find balance between the kids, my businesses, work, husband, family,
house, volunteering, and self.



I set goals for myself. From these goals I try to make realistic
to do lists for each week. Then I strategize how to make each goal
happen. When a goal is not being achieved I look at what is preventing
it. This allows me to re-evaluate my strategy and find a more effective
way to achieve that goal.



I have a 15-month-old and do in home childcare. I am available for
my customers most of the time but need to be sure to not ignore
my daughter or day care children. When I am getting paid for them,
they need to be the focus. I am sure to spend time playing with
my daughter every afternoon once the other kids have gone home.
She needs the security and fun of Mom Time (I need it too) and it
is so much fun. During nap time and in the evenings I work on my
business. I schedule my events for weekends and evenings so as to
not interfere with other priorities. I allow myself to be human,
mess up, miss some opportunities. We can’t do everything all the
time.



My husband of 2 years and I have a date night at least once a month
although our goal is once a week. He has an unpredictable schedule.
We discuss weekly any issues/frustrations we are having and that
has been helpful. My house is not perfect. The laundry get washed
but not always folded or put away. The dishes get to the dishwasher
but not always back on the shelf. The floors are washed once a week,
the carpets are vacuumed twice a week unless there is an accident
that must be cleaned. I toss junk mail right in the trash. I don’t
buy the newspaper. I could spend all day, everyday cleaning so I
have a system and I try to stick to it. Sundays are cleaning day
in prep for the kids on Monday. Do what works for your family. No
one really cares if the house is perfect all the time.



I only volunteer for what I have time for and what I will enjoy.
Volunteering should add happiness to your life not stress. If you
don’t have the time, energy or will don’t do it. Offering to do
a fundraiser for a group is a great way to volunteer and your business
gains the benefit of new contacts, free publicity, being a good
neighbor. There will always be opportunities to give to your community.
Do what works for you.



I am working on becoming a top priority. I set a goal of getting to the gym at least 4 times a week. This was not happening so I signed up for the childcare at the gym. Now I can spend an hour or so every afternoon keeping myself healthy while my daughter is making new friends, enjoying her new "playgroup."



Being a work at home parent is a constant game of give and take, ups and downs. Enjoy the ride, that is what it is all about.