Thanksgiving Blessings

Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Burberry. What do these all have in common? You would not find them in my closet when I was building my business. In fact, let me tell you how it is…I was in my 40s when I bought my first pair of designer shoes! Those who meet me today often mistakenly assume that I’ve always been big on designers – a “Devil Wears Prada” type who must own Chanel. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While I’ve always admired fashion, it was far from my mind when I first started as a Consultant, juggling in-home parties with my children’s livelihood and school and recreational functions.

Later in life, I’ve really enjoyed being able to finally spoil myself a little and not feel even a little guilty about it. Like many of you reading this, I’ve worked very hard and it’s a wonderful treat to be able to afford to wear some of the designers I’ve appreciated from afar year after year. However, this has come with many sacrifices, determination and dedication to work ethic. It is so unsettling when I see a high school student walking through the mall today carrying a $2,000 purse. Even with my own daughter, I didn’t buy her a designer purse until she was well into college, and let me assure you, it was for a special occasion and a junior designer at that!

My son, Chris, also likes to tell the story of how he had to wear “Sikes” instead of “Nikes” growing up because, let’s face it, I was a single mom and I had to make every single dollar count. And I promise you, when we could finally afford the “real thing” he appreciated it so much more than if it was just handed to him.

Throughout this journey, regardless of how little or how much money we have had, we’ve always remained grateful. We have always counted the blessings of health and family first. There have been years I shopped at thrift stores and my children wore hand-me-downs, so whether it’s something I’m picking out for my home, clothing, or even just a nice dinner out with my family – I’m always so very thankful that I’ve worked hard so I can have these things. And even more importantly, I’m so appreciative every everyday that I’ve had the opportunity to pass this important lesson down to my children: work hard for everything you have in life, and appreciate everything you gain because of that hard work. I can rest easy knowing that they will teach that same principle on to their own children for generations to come.

This Thanksgiving, I hope you, too, will take a moment to count your blessings and know that everything you are working so hard for will bring you the happiness you truly deserve. Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!