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The Power of Marketing

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home shopping

     Yesterday I woke up with a terrible migraine.  Anyone who suffers from these knows the feeling of pain, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and tiredness.  After I got my kids on the bus, I fell asleep on the couch.  When I woke 2 hours later, I still didn’t feel like moving.  It’s like having a late night without any of the fun.  With the remote in reach, I turned on the television.  After the morning news, I rarely watch anything on the tube, so I began channel surfing.  When I landed on QVC, I took a moment to see what they were selling.  The item up for sale was a mattress.  Having just had a bad morning, it immediately caught my interest.

     In 4 easy payments (easy…. really..what does that mean?) adding up to less than $500.00; I could have a memory foam mattress endorsed by a certified chiropractor.  It looked soft and comfortable. It would solve all my sleep issues and never lose its shape.  For a fraction of the cost of a well-known national brand, it could be mine.  Oh did they lure me in.  I was so tempted.  Then I remembered that my current mattress is only 3 years old and was made by a nearby mattress company.

     Years ago I visited my grandmother and her sister, Aunt Mary, for a week.  Aunt Mary loved contests and had been the big winner on more than one occasion.  She wanted to know if I wanted some jewelry she bought from the Home Shopping Network.  It had “real” diamonds, about the size you find on a drill bit, but they were real.  She went on to tell me that the woman on the other end of the phone knew her when she called.  Being elderly, I didn’t have the heart to tell her that the woman knew everyone.  She never spent a lot of money on these items so it was harmless.  What stood out was how these marketers are able to sell, and how good they are at attracting customers.  They know how to appeal to the senses and have a way of making you feel like you need their product.  I give them credit for salesmanship, a skill I never possessed.

     I was never able to sell anything.  Fundraisers for school, the YMCA, girl scouts, and other organizations never made much from my sales.  Candy bars, wrapping paper, cookies, and other items were products I couldn’t promote.  It is an art and a skill that few possess, and many give into.  I can see a sale coming a mile away.  I don’t like the hard sell, and am put off as soon as it starts.  Yesterday, in a moment of weakness, I almost bought a mattress.  Oh, but it was so comfortable, cool, soft, offers support………click went the remote.  I feel better today.  So does my wallet.

Six Overused Words and Phrases

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Words have a power all their own

Words have a power all their own (Photo credit: Lynne Hand)

     Lately I have noticed a certain phrase being used by people in the media, politicians arguing their point, and others finding a way to put an exclamation on their idea.    There are many words and phrases that over the years continue to be used over and over again as if there is no other way to describe what is being stated.   I have limited this list to the top 6 that I find so annoying, I cringe every time I hear them.   They are……

6.   Awesome.    What started as a valley girl expression of the ‘80s has become a standard form of expression.   Usually it is preceded by the word “so” as in “That was soooooooooooo awesome.” Even small children use this word to explain everything that is considered great.   It would be nice to hear the word magnificent, splendid, fabulous, exciting, outstanding, etc. in its place every now and then.

5.   Amazing.   This is awesome’s cousin.  This is often used to describe some kind of performance.  It can be athletic, musical, artistic, or written.  It usually refers to an individual who has achieved some kind of feat.   Look at the above list and add talented, strong, smart, vivid, electrifying, stupendous, etc.  You get my drift.

4.   Basically.   The funny thing about this word is that people will use it, and then go on a lengthy discussion into detail.  Somehow the “basic” part of the word was forgotten.

3.  Whatever.   This one really irks me.   It is used whenever someone doesn’t have a reasonable comeback in a discussion.  They might not want to see your point of view, or they just can’t think of a reason why they are wrong.   Parents understand this one.

2.  Out of the box.  Ok, what is the box?  Does anyone know?  Has anyone bothered to examine the contents of the box before they change it?  Maybe something in the box is good.  Maybe we want to keep it.   Do we have to throw the whole thing out?  New ideas are always necessary but they should be based on the past and the present and tweaked, refined, and refreshed.

1.  At the end of the day.   We have finally arrived at what appears the newest catch phrase of late.   Interestingly enough, this is being used by many a politician.  To me this phrase means a conclusion, a resolution, or a final outcome.    Obviously this is not occurring in our present political climate so please stop stating it.  Other people use it to support and reinforce their ideas.   It isn’t that awful a phrase, but it is being stated in too many interviews and discussions.

     It is interesting that as humans we pick up on words and phrases and subconsciously weave them into our speaking or writing vocabulary.  It is limiting in terms of expression.  The dictionary is filled with glorious words taking a back seat in the use of language.   There is so much to choose from that makes conversation more interesting and colorful.   They say think before you speak.  Imagine what you might have to say.

Attendance Is Down at the Box Office

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It was reported this week that movie attendance for 2011 dipped to a 16 year low.  Many speculate  re that people grew tired of sequels.  This may be true as  Part 2 and 3 of blockbusters seem to be made immediately after their success.  It used to be that sequels would come out a few years later, but that isn’t the case anymore.  There are many other factors that have affected the sale of tickets.   The main one is fact that we can now access films without the cost of sitting in the theatre. 

The cost of a movie ticket  has risen steadily over the years.  3 D movies command an even higher price.  You can try saving a few dollars by going  to a matinee, but that means you probably will have to catch the film at 10:30 in the morning.  Throw in a trip to the concession, and a family of four can easily spend an average of 50 plus dollars for a couple of hours of entertainment.   So, people stay home, make popcorn, and for a minimal price, watch a movie when it becomes available on DVD or streaming.

I remember when you had to catch a film at the cinema or you missed any chance of seeing it.  Matinees were around 2:00 in the afternoon.  Most towns had a theatre showing one movie at a time.  The screen was large, the floor was sticky, the previews were limited, and the audience enjoyed the experience.  Even the cost at night was manageable.  It was a way most people could afford a little entertainment.

Now you have to drive to a multiplex, showing 15 different movies all on screens much smaller than years past. On top of paying more, we have to endure about 15 minutes of commercials and previews.  Televisions have gotten larger.  The quality of HD and Blu-Ray has made watching at home better.  Some people have even installed home theatres.   Even if you miss a film while it is out, you know you can see it eventually. There are some old theatres and town halls that show movies after their major run for a fraction of the cost.  This also provides a fun and affordable way to see a movie. 

I enjoy going to the movies every now and then.  I appreciate a good drama, an indie film, a documentary and yes, even a comedy.  I sit through films that I probably wouldn’t see if it weren’t for my kids.  It still is an enjoyable way to spend some free time.  The darkness, the sound, the crunching of salty popcorn, the laughter, the tears, and the occasional applause, all add to the experience.  Movies will live on forever, however we choose to view them.  The choice is what still makes it possible.

news.yahoo.com/movie-crowds-dip-16-low-apathy-lingers-1539258…

Continuing the Support of Our Troops

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The war had been declared over in Iraq.  After 9 long years, the troops are withdrawing and coming home.  This is a welcomed holiday gift for the service men and women, and their loved ones.   Close to 4,500 died, and 30,000 were injured in a country most cannot even locate on a map.  A place so far that it doesn’t come to mind every day.   A country so different from our own that it is difficult to completely understand what are young people were sent to fight for.   There are similarities of horror and fear for all those who fight in a war.  The difference this time around is that we have no excuse in understanding and helping the veterans who have sacrificed so much.

We send off our young at a time when they are just starting to find their way in life.  Some have just finished school, others are newly married, or have young  children.  All leave behind family, friends, and a hometown to worry about their safety and well-being.  What we can’t imagine or fully comprehend, is what these brave young people saw and dealt with on a day-to-day basis.  The horrors of war do not leave a person when they come home.  My mother’s uncle was a World War II veteran.  Anytime you saw him, a story about his time in the war came up.  Some came home to a hero’s parade.  Being from a small town, that didn’t happen for him.  There were no programs to assist returning soldiers and jobs had to be found.  Nothing was handed to them.

The veterans of Vietnam came home to a hostile and indifferent nation.  It took way too much time to recognize the service  of these soldiers.  Many of the returning Iraqi war veterans are starting to utter the same feelings and concerns.  Have we not learned anything from out past?  Regardless of how any individual feels about a war, respect for the commitment and promise these individuals made for our country should be offered.  It takes a special human being to confront danger on a daily basis.   The least we can do is honor the oath they took to defend and protect the freedom we so enjoy.  So, whenever you see or hear that someone has served our country, no matter what war, let them know that we stand behind them and will continue to offer support for as long as they live.   Money was available to fight the war, money should be available to support its veterans.  In addition, the validation of  a job well-done needs to be expressed repeatedly.   In America, it is right thing to do.

The Effect of Big Box Stores on Retail

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Article first published as The Effect of Big Box Stores on Retail on Technorati.

Borders book stores have announced that they are going out of business.  Best Buy has decided to reduce the size of their buildings.  Both claim that other businesses and the internet have dramatically curtailed sales.  The economic downturn has also played a significant role in their demise.  What many big box retailers seem to have forgotten is that they did exactly the same to thousands of independent business owners years ago.

I remember when Home Depot was opening in the small cities and suburbs.  The immediate concern was that they would put all the small hardware stores out of business.  They were told not to worry.  That competition would improve business for all, and that what they carried would not affect the small stores.  In a matter of a few years, all the independent hardware stores in the area where out of business.  They could not compete with inventory, price, and store hours. 

Large stores and malls also had an effect on the downtown areas of many towns and cities.  It became more convenient to drive to large stores rather that walk up and down a street to shop.  Small clothing, book, toy, video, and drug stores slowly disappeared from the landscape.  Instead the country has become more and more generic in retail choices.

The loss of these large stores has left a void in many cities and towns.   Huge buildings sit vacant for years with signs advertising leasing opportunities.  Given the current economic climate, the small store owner cannot start up a business as easily before retail was dominated by big business.  The small store knew their customers, employed a steady group of workers, and provided a level of service that went unmatched.

The public is upset to see the demise of Borders.  There is a feeling that literacy in America has suffered a blow.  There may some truth in the sentiment, but wouldn’t it be nice if small stores could make a comeback. It would improve the economy and the retail experience many of us miss.

The True Crime Committed by John Edwards

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    Article first published as The True Crime Committed by John Edwards on Technorati.

Elizabeth Edwards 2

      The Federal Court has decided to indict John Edwards on using campaign funds to hide his mistress and child during his run for the presidency. He claims innocence, and says he can prove that he did not commit this felony.  What he does admit is that he made a big mistake that hurt many of his love ones.  I accept that he acknowledges his actions of human misconduct.  What I don’t understand is what caused him to do so. There seems to be a never-ending list of male politicians cheating on their wives.  While all have certain elements of betrayal and sadness, the John Edwards story is very different to me.  Why?  There is only one reason.  His wife was Elizabeth.

     Elizabeth Edwards had beaten cancer once before.  It returned during her husband’s run for president.  Instead of backing away from the race, the couple decided to pursue his ambition and desire to become our national leader.  I can tell you from experience that nothing is easy when you are undergoing cancer treatments.  The fatigue, the weakness, the hair loss, etc., all take a toll on the mind and body.  Despite this, Elizabeth had the strength to stand with her husband while he went after a dream.  What was the payback for this support?  He has an affair with a staffer who later had his child.  He claims he hid the fact to spare his family.  After hearing interviews and reading articles, I believe it had more to do with the election than his family.   Why would he go to such lengths otherwise?  Did he really believe this story would never surface?  This was the thinking of a man who wanted to be president.

       Elizabeth Edwards was a strong, intelligent woman.  Her first role in life was mother to her children.  A role she cherished to the end.  She wrote books, shared her stories, and helped those who were going through similar difficulties.   She testified before senate committees on issues of importance, and appeared to be as down to earth as anyone in her position.  The crime John Edwards committed is what he did to her and his children.  A crime he will have to live with forever.

A Mom’s Perspective on 9/11

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NYC: World Trade Center

Image by wallyg via Flickr

Article first published as A Mom’s Perspective on 9/11 on Technorati.

September 11, 2001. It is one of those days one remembers where they were. I was teaching high school and had my class outside early that morning. As I entered the building, a colleague told me that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center. I was in disbelief and even after seeing the images on the television, couldn’t comprehend how such a terrible event could occur.

The day only got worse with the towers crumbling and the people seen running down the streets covered in dust. Many of my students were transfixed to the news and had questions which I couldn’t answer. Others could not bring themselves to watch. I was stunned and couldn’t help but think about the future of our world. The impact was made greater due to the fact that I was 6 months pregnant.

I had married late in life and the decision to have children was not easy. Along with my age, I was a cancer survivor so the idea of starting a family contained a certain degree moral responsibility. Once the decision to have a baby was made, the emotions shifted from concern to joy. We had made the right choice. Then the world as we knew it changed forever.

As the events of the day unfolded,I couldn’t help but think about the future of this new little life we were expecting. How dangerous would it be? How many years would we be at war? How many lives would we lose as a nation and how many security measures would we have to endure in order to increase our safety?

When my daughter was born, I realized that throughout history, life goes on. We hope that future generations will live in better world. We will never forget the pain we suffered that day. We continue to support the troops who risk their lives every day. My prayers are with those who have returned physically or mentally disabled. My thanks go to the parents who have lost their children in order to provide a safer world for mine. Life does go on, and we have to continue to live in a world were hope remains a virtue.

 
 

>The Title

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>     I few years ago I thought maybe it would be nice to write a book.  Mind you…I’m not all that great a writer, but I saw it as a way to put down my thoughts.   I realized that my chances of ever being published or read were slim, so I decided to start this blog instead.  We see what is going around us, and then make up our own thoughts and feelings about what is happening.  If you are a visual person like me, those images never stop.  They make an imprint in your mind and someday something else happens to remind you of it.
   Another reason I like the title, is that in our society we pay so much attention to the so called experts.  Experts in articles, on the television, online, radio, etc.   Don’t get me wrong.  Sometimes this information is necessary.  It is great we can access it whenever we choose.  But sometimes the average person might just know more.  Sometimes saying what appears obvious, in a simple way, makes it all seem clearer.  I have a lot to say regarding that statement and will do so in further posts.  In the meantime, I think I’ll keep my eyes and ears open. 

Here we go.

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>   Why am I starting a blog?  What could I possible have to write about?  What is the whole purpose of letting the world in my head?  Good questions.  I don’t have any answers, but I do know that I have opinions on just about everything I see or hear.  My mind is constantly going and as a stay-at-home mom, there isn’t always an outlet for them to be expressed or discussed.  Mostly I think about kids, parenting, politics, education, and human behavior.  Somehow it all seems to go together.  My feeling is that if I can express my views here, it will open my mind to clearer thinking and maybe even some enlightenment.  We all have to express ourselves at some point, in some way.  Sometimes it helps to be serious, and other times, humor is the way to go. 
     There are many topics I already have written up in my head.  I plan on writing some of them down in the days and weeks ahead.  To anyone who reads them, I hope you can relate or add you own experiences as well. Here we go.