Every day I pray that I can inspire my three daughters. When I started my public relations company I knew that it meant a lot of sacrifices for my family.

This is not your usual public relations blog. In fact, it has nothing to do with public relations. But, as a mother and business owner, I felt compelled to write this to the moms out there.

Recently, I asked one of my employees when she was born. I nearly had a heart attack. She was born the year I graduated high school. Yikes… I’m only 40 but that makes me feel really old. How can she be so young? And most importantly, can she really handle the pressure at a public relations agency? Is she actually going to work hard? Will she feel entitled?

I wrote this blog last week on the plane coming back from moderating a political debate. The objective was to talk about politicians working together. But, I have to digress a bit to talk about some of American’s lack of respect for each other and the political system. The recent protesting made America look ridiculous.  And, for those who wanted to stop Donald Trump from having his rally, they shot themselves in the foot. Over the last couple of days, Donald Trump has received more media exposure than he would have if he had the Chicago rally. Like it or not, he gained more supporters and free media exposure.  The end result, grown adults yelling at each other and resorting to violence. This is not what our political system should be about.  But, let’s get back to what it should be about.

Conferences. They are great for education and fabulous for networking. Anyone who has been to a large conference has found value in them. But what are you doing to take it to the next level?

Today we’re talking about being available for the media.

When the press calls and they say that they want to come by to interview you in an hour…they’re not kidding!

When I started my own Public Relations firm, I turned to my friend and mentor, who owns his own marketing agency. Kyle Reyes of The Silent Partner Marketing shared a ton of advice with me and continues to do so. You want to know what the best piece of advice he gave me was? He told me to start blogging. To be honest, I was Very apprehensive about that. All I could think of was: who wants to read my blog? What will I write about? Will they be any good? How will I find the time?  Well, I conquered my fears and Kyle was right. Blogging helps you and your business grow. For those of you who are nervous or questioning the power of blogging, I’ve compiled several tips on on how to blog and reasons to start writing.

My parents once told me to choose my words wisely. It was an important piece of advice 20 years ago and it is even more relevant today. In this digital age, it is imperative that you think before you speak.

Today’s Friday Favorites kicks off with one of the best places to grab a quick, delicious meal.  Let me introduce you to Green Leaves to Go in Agawam, Massachusetts. Owners and sisters Rose LaFleur and Lois Rossi make their gourmet creations inside Nina’s Cookies in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts. In the morning, they serve up a breakfast sandwich that keeps you full till Noon. For lunch, take your pick of fresh salads or sandwiches. One of their specials the other day was a sweet citrus salad – mixed greens topped with a scoop of our cranberry walnut chicken salad, Vermont cheddar & a medley of chopped apple & oranges soaked in fresh squeezed lemon & honey. How good does that sound? Whether you opt for take-out or you’re providing lunch for the office or an event, Green Leaves to Go is a must try. Once you go there, they will become your favorite…I guarantee it.

We’re kicking off today’s Friday Favorites with one of the most up-and-coming blogs to follow. If you haven’t seen Rosemary and Lace, you don’t know what you’re missing. Blogger Michelle LaPorte takes fashion to a whole new level. She highlights affordable clothes and makes them look like they’re right off the runway. She proves that you don’t have to spend a ton of money to look good. I used to work with Michelle and she was always the best dressed.  It’s no surprise that she started a fashion blog and it has blown up. So much so, that she is going to be featured in a national magazine! Besides fashion, Michelle chats about home decor, beauty and fitness. You can also follow her onPinterest, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Recently I’ve been writing a number of blogs on work/life balance. As my business grows and the family demands increase, I am constantly seeking to find a balance. Today’s Friday Favorites is all about what’s been working to keep me centered (minus a weekly glass of wine or two.)

Imagine this. You’re sitting in the green room at Fox News or MSNBC. You are being prepped by the producer. Your heart is racing. Your palms are sweating. You make the walk down the long hallway to the live studio. You get the cue that you are two minutes away from going on the national television news. And you’re live.

Today we’re talking about how social media and PR work together. Before twitter, facebook and snapchat, the only way to let people know that you and your company were going on to be on the 10 pm news is an email blast or a phone call.

You have probably been hearing a lot about Snapchat around work. Your kids are most likely on it and celebrities and companies around the world are snapping away.  If you haven’t jumped on board with this social media platform…it’s time. I know what some of you are thinking: “Isn’t it for sending naked pictures?” I’m sure that people still do, but businesses and social media influencers do not do that. Now that your concern is cleared up, grab your phone and download the free app.

We’ve all made our New Year’s resolutions. By now, many of you have broken them. It’s okay. My “no drinking wine during the week” resolution was foiled 5 days in. But, that’s okay, we move on and focus on other things.

How often do you say “no”? If you are like many people, I am guessing that the answer is “hardly ever.”  You don’t want to let anyone down. You want to be liked. You want to be a team player. Sound familiar? Whatever the reason, by saying yes to everything, you are saying no to the important things in your personal and professional life. I am slowly learning to say ‘no’.

It’s the best feeling for a publicist to be told by the media, “Yes…we’ll cover that story.” Our heart beats with excitement and we can’t wait to tell our clients. But…the good news needs to come with a disclaimer.

Today we’re talking about your marketing budget. I’m going to let you in a little secret….you don’t need a 100,000 dollar budget to successfully market your business, but you do need to be doing the right things.