3/50 Project {Make A Difference}

We must not, in trying to think about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily differences we can make which, over time, add up to big differences that we often cannot foresee – Marian Wright Edelman

Make a difference –  how?  Let’s be frank – the economy is not in the best shape and people are being more cautious about how and where they spend their hard earned money.   Countless “big box” stores have closed in recent months and the smaller, independent retailers are under tremendous pressure just to survive.  But, this is where YOU can make a difference and it starts in your local community.

Retail guru Cinda Baxter {Always Upward} started the 3/50 Project – Saving the Brick and Mortars our Nation is Built On. The concept is brilliantly simple:

Pick 3 independently owned businesses in your town that you would miss if they closed

Spend $50 a month in those businesses

Help save your local economy!

Still don’t believe that YOU can make a difference – check out these facts:

If half the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned, independent businesses, it would generate more than 42.6 billion in revenue.

For ever $100 spent in locally owned, independent stores, $68 returns to the community, through taxes, payroll and other expenditures {if spent in a national chain, only $43 stays local}.

Write-On Sarasota is a participant in the 3/50 Project along with hundreds of other independently owned businesses across the country – find one (or three) in your town to support and know that you really are making a difference!

Visit the 3/50 Project for more information.

Spend a little ~ Save a lot!

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{The Cornerstone}

Ten years ago today was our wedding day.  I can still remember everything about that beautiful spring day ~ but it was just one day, part of the foundation of our lives together.

When I look at what we have built in these ten years ~ it is more amazing than anything I could have imagined.

Today may be just one day ~ but it is now part of this grand structure we have built ~ perhaps it will be a window ~  so we can look inside to appreciate all that what we have and look out to welcome what may come.

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{a few little things…}

..I never leave the house without:

A pair of David Yurman Thoroughbred hoops.  Like the name implies, these earrings are winners and have been gracing my lobes for the past 10 years {and counting!}

The minimalist in can’t help but adore the sleek unadorned silver tube.  My practical side appreciates a product that has consistently performed well for the past 15 years {and counting}.

{Clinique Naturally Glossy Mascara – Jet Black}

I “borrowed”  this scent from my future mother-in law {was that awful of me}?  Well, more than 10 years later I am still spritzing and now blogging with my mother-in law!

My first adult “signature scent” {Bvlgari  Poure Femme}

Wow, I never realized what a brand loyalist I am!

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{a few little things….}

Yes, I’m a lucky girl!  I have so much in my life to be thankful for – most importantly – my family, my faith and my friends.

I thought creating a weekly post to capture some of the other “everyday luxuries” that I am so fortunate to enjoy would be nice.  Please understand that this post is not a celebration of materials goods, but rather an appreciation of the things in life  that give us enjoyment, put a smile on our face, make our life easier or stir a fond memory.

So, a few little things I am thankful for….

The most thoughtful anniversary gift from my husband

{Anichini Sheets}

Shopping with my daughter for her First Communion Dress!

{Joan Calabrese}

Reading a good book! Controversial – maybe. Well written – definitely.

{Loving Frank by Nancy Horan}

Seeing my first official sign of spring!

{American Robin by Ray Radigan}

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