Tales from the trenches

It's been a rough couple of weeks for me personally, with moving and some adult growing pains. However, work has kept me busy, and it's been good to have a positive distraction.

Over the last few months, I have taken on more and more clients. I just completed my first RFP, which required me to stay late and get some work done. I was rewarded with a few extra days off for my hard work in between Christmas and NYE. I thought that this was very nice of my boss, because he didn't have to do that!

The last few weeks, my primary focus has been to streamline our communications into one weekly email. Email marketing is the non-profit's baby, because we're always pressed for resources. Many of the emails that I subscribe to send me items everyday. I know you're gonna be surprised by this, I simply don't have time to read them all! I do like the SmartBrief format because they are able to download and digest the most important articles on the relevant topics.

Our new communication has seen a lot of success and praise from our existing client base. We are trying to provide them with tips and tricks on how to better market their career center, so I feel like I am actually having an impact.

Its definitely a change of pace and a welcome one from my last place of employment. Wishing you a pleasant Wednesday!

Kids & Obesity

It's been in the news lately that America is FAT! Even our poor kids are getting a bad rap. How do they get these unhealthy habits you ask? I believe it starts with our relationship with food.

This news story calls our attention to the staggering rates of obesity in children statewide. As a northerner I am not surprised by the southern states leading the charge in obesity. All that comfort food and delicious delights to enjoy. As a young adult I have struggled with my own relationship with food. So you're reading this and you're like what is the point of all of this?

My new gig where I am responsible for generating new business hosts cooking classes for kids. It helps teach them how to prepare their own meals, and can even help them improve their relationship with food. You can sign up your kids for a special one time class or even an intense summer camp. If you're interested in helping your kid fight the fat or learn more about cooking, please visit their website at www.cookologyonline.com.

The product and the service are great. Culinary masters created the material and execute the program. Drop me a line there at beth@cookologyonline.com if you would like some more info.

Tales of the Unemployed

This week marks my third week since my position being eliminated. It's been a rocky week, but I have tried to stay busy by applying to jobs, holding phone interviews and seeking some part-time freelance work. I have yet to be successful in landing any freelance or permanent positions so if you know of anyone looking for a Marketing Rockstar please contact me! (that was a subtle and shameless hint).

This weekend I am volunteering to work at a local event that I think everyone should check out! It's called Brew Fest and it's hosts many local and non local breweries. I went to the Fall version of this festival a few years ago and discovered the glory that is Chocolate Cake Donut Beer. I had never really been a dark/stout beer fan but a few sips of this was enough to convert me! So when I received the email asking for volunteers I sent out a message to all my crew. I was successful in recruiting a willing participant. We'll head down there to take tickets. If you're there you should stop by and say hi!

I am incredibly grateful for the support of my friends, colleagues and family. Sometimes it's hard to distinguish who is who. To all my fellow unemployed peeps: We will get a good job! We will!