I have a gift,long held as a curse. Perception, instinct, and a profound relationship with language compel me into the depths of not only my soul but the core of all subjects. Learning I have yet to tire of. I suppose I am somewhat of a late bloomer.

There was a whisper in my ear as early as my seventh year. I was frightened by my awareness and ashamed to share it with the world. So I hid in my journals the truth of me. I wrote in secret the figments, observations, and feelings that came to me while riding down the road, walking at the mall or in the middle of Algebra class. I longed to be normal, never once realizing that the force that made me unique was a blessing.

I failed to embrace my passion, build upon it and turn it into a contribution. When I was offered the opportunity to study, I once again chose to hide behind the safeguards of normalcy for fear that my one true love would be subject to ridicule. After an eternity of ordinary and subsequent dissatisfaction I sat in a hospital bed at the age of 29 and finally was aware that "normal" was a cycle on my washing machine and quite fortunately was something I was never and would never be.

Since that time I have written daily frequently in fragments. I talk about my writing. I share it with others. I am actually working on a book. I have discovered that without a formal education opportunities are limited. I am not dissuaded.

I am nostalgic and often kick myself for the time that got away from me but no matter. I keep moving forward writing when and where I can and planning to acquire that formal education. I found that the source of my discontent was ignoring a calling, a mistake I refuse to make again.

A powerful combination of insight and outstanding written and oral communication skills promotes my ability to conceptualize, comprehend, interpret, and produce a wide range of pieces.

My attributes include a lifelong appreciation for the power words possess to alter perception, increase value, and even change lives. In short, I am a passionate and multi-talented writer.

In addition, I am experienced in the fields of public relations, marketing, content editing, and transcription. Exceptional organizational, computer, and accounting skills, along with an extensive background in customer service perpetuate my success in the business world as a property manager and consultant.

Portfolio

www.jollyjo.com- Ripples-9/24/08

www.allwomenstalk.com- Relationship Roadblocks: Stumbling on an STD- 10/08

When Open Marriage Goes Wrong-Anonymous publisher-7/2/08

Piedmont Publishing, VA-Built To Survive-11/13/08,

Piedmont Publishing-Tis The Season For Inspiration-12/11/08

Piedmont Publishing-Melody in Motion-12/11/08

The Piedmont Shopper-The Communication Lifeline-1/9/09

Finding Spiritual Peace in a Tough Economy-Anonymous publisher-1/26/09

My passion is ...

Writing

I know too much about ...

substance abuse and recovery

My parents always told me ...

You are not unique and different.

My childhood ambition ...

to be famous

My favorite memory ...

Decorating the christmas tree in the house I grew up in

Why I write ...

Words have power to alter mood, alter perception, alter life

What I am reading/watching/listening to ...

"The Noonday Demon", HGTV, Van Morrison

My first job ...

Babysitter

My best moment ...

When I realized I was unique and picked up a pen to tell the world about it.

My inspiration ...

Experience

Business > Marketing Marketing your small business during the recession

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Marketing Your Small Business During the Recession

To ensure survival during the 2008-2009 Recession, it is imperative that small businesses reassess their finances in order to allocate funds more efficiently and effectively.

Marketing is not an expense; it is an investment in your business, and should account for about 7% of your income. While many businesses are making the mistake of reducing and even eliminating advertising funds, you have the opportunity to gain an edge over your competitors by simply modifying your marketing budget. By following these guidelines, your business will p...

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