DONNELL BESS
"Life Is What You Make It"
When life gives you lemons…make lemonade!
So…I’ve been pondering over how I could take a talent and turn it into positive cash flow. This is something I am constantly trying to figure out. While I was going through this period of decisions, I was in the middle of planning a party for my husband and decided to create a photo slideshow to honor him. Still not realizing what God planned for me, I continued to analyze and review numerous business options, but still nothing was working out. Finally, Mother’s day was approaching and I was on my way to my son’s school for the annual spa day for mom and I heard Boyz to Men “A Song For Mama” playing on the radio. Instantly, I had a strange urge to go home and create a photo slideshow for my mother. After completing this slideshow, I was impressed with the final product. Finally, my eyes were opened and I was able to see exactly what was intended for me to see.
Sometimes in life, we are looking for a direct answer to our questions; however, things are not always as clear as we would like for them to be. You MUST always believe in yourself and follow your DREAMS. That’s how I took lemons and made lemonade!
CHECK OUT MY VIDEO SLIDESHOW. For business inquiries, please contact me directly using my contact page or email me @ bess4success@gmail.com.
Traveling With Kids
It’s Summertime…now it’s time to dust out that bucket list! If you’re like my family, then you will probably be traveling with kids. Does it really matter your method of travel…plane, boat, train, bus or car? No…traveling can be a fun yet stressful time, but if you follow these helpful tips, then you will be able to focus more on having FUN!
TIP #1: BEFORE THE TRIP
If you plan on traveling internationally, whether by air or ship, you should make sure each family member has a passport. This should be done at least 3-4 months before the travel date. In the event that you need to apply for a passport, advanced planning will alleviate the need to expedite your application; therefore, no additional fees. If you have one already, verify that it’s not expired. If it is…don’t panic, there’s still enough time to apply for a renewal. Click on this link if you need to apply or renew a US passport: https://www.dhs.gov/how-do-i/apply-us-passport.
- Don’t forget to purchase Travel Insurance from the agency that is handling your travel arrangements. In the event, you are unable to travel, you could be reimbursed 100% of the cost providing this coverage was purchased previously.
- Once your travel plans are finalized, create a folder on your computer or phone to store all related updates from the air or cruise line regarding your upcoming trip. This will include important information such as departure and arrival times, if flying by air or ship. This may include port information with important dates and times.
- Make a checklist for all the items you will need during your trip and pack your suitcase 2-3 weeks before the travel date. If you notice that you are missing something on this list, NO STRESS…there’s still enough time to pick up any essential item.
TIP #2: TRAVEL DAY
- Ditch that cute purse! Take out that tote bag…yeah you know the one with all the compartments! This will allow you to secure your boarding pass and other things you will receive while checking in. What else should I put into this tote? Don’t forget to have a change of clothing for yourself, blanket, snacks, entertainment and chargers for all your technology devices. Oh and DON’T FORGET your ID/passport, medical/dental insurance cards, cash and credit cards.
- Have each family member travel with their own backpack that should include: a change of clothing, snacks, jacket/blanket and entertainment (yeah those games they can’t live without).
TIP #3: PATIENCE
- Expect those kids to get tired and have a melt down! You will hear…”Are we there yet”, “I’m tired” and maybe a little bit of crying. So make sure in your personal tote bag you pack that one item that your kid can’t live without. This will be that SHOWSTOPPING toy or book that your kid has not seen for the day!!! So when he or she receives it, there should be an instant satisfaction.
TIP #4: WE MADE IT!
- Now…it’s time to have fun! When traveling with smaller kids, don’t forget to schedule your itinerary around naps and mealtimes, if that’s possible. Be sure to make special memories by planning activities that every member in your family will enjoy. Take lots of pictures…like the saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”!
TIP #5: HAVE FUN!!!
To Use EBATES or Not!!!
Have you heard of Ebates? It’s awesome. I use Ebates to get Cash Back on almost everything I buy. They work with a bunch of big-name brands such as Khol’s, Nordstrom and Amazon so I can always get money back from my favorite stores. It’s free and super easy to use. Check it Out! Feel free to use my direct link to sign up at Ebates.
https://www.ebates.com/r/BESS4S2
Happy Mother’s Day
So…Mother’s Day is finally here! The celebrations began on Friday. It was wonderful spending most of the day with my two younger sons. We got this party started with the traditional “muffins with mom” in my son’s 3 year old classroom. Later on in the after, I was privileged to have spa day in Wild Bill’s classroom. Although I was not looking forward to having a 5year old polish my nails… excitement in his eyes and the grin on his face made it all worth it!
On Sunday…Mother’s Day, I spent the day being pampered by the four men in my life. Breakfast was prepared for me and later dinner was made to include a beautiful cake to top of the festivities. What can I say I’m a blessed lady!!! Don’t forget to give your momma’s a hug and kiss:-) Smoochies babe!
