The 19th Day of Thanksgiving: Growth and Learning

I'm a news junkie. I read articles every day on topics from politics, to the economy, to investing. I browse bookstores, news web sites, and all-news cable channels. I love understanding how the world works because I know that the more I learn, the more I can help myself and the people I love (including our wonderful Consultants).

Over the years, I've learned many things about business and success. But two stand out above all the other aphorisms, (both of them from my dad): "Make hay while the sun shines" and "Save for a rainy day." In all the many programs on the stock market and our economy that I've watched recently, not many experts have mentioned those two basic guidelines for achieving financial health: work hard and using your money providently.

I've never been afraid of hard work. In fact, I love it! I find that when you love a business like I love Close To My Heart, work IS play. And when it comes to money, I will always remember what it felt like to be a young single mother struggling to provide for my two small children. Living "on the edge" can be a lonely proposition. As I worked my business, I vowed to save my profits, reinvest in the business, and resist any temptations to overextend myself to creditors. The future of the company was just too important.

As Close To My Heart has grown, I've been approached by many prospective buyers, investors, and others who promised to help Close To My Heart grow faster. But I am more interested in growing organically than growing fast—and I refused to mortgage the company's future on the promises of outsiders. I could always hear my dad's teachings echoing in my mind. The result? Close To My Heart has grown on a strong and steady foundation. There is no doubt of that.

We are pioneering new innovations in scrapbooking that will carry the company forward—not merely surviving uncertain times, but thriving in them.

I feel like this is an important statement to make and an important time to make it. As our economy continues down a rocky path, I want our customers and Consultants alike to know what an incredible movement we are involved in. Scrapbooking is more than a hobby, it is a vital part of how we preserve and celebrate our relationships. And Close To My Heart is more than a business--it is a commitment to learning, to hard work, and to the growth that we can achieve together.