Friday, December 27, 2013

No More Resolutions

Every year people make New Year's resolutions.  They set goals for the year ahead.  Often, those goals are health-related.  People get new gym memberships.  I can almost guarantee you that the parking lot will be full when I go to work out on Thursday morning next week.  Every treadmill, elliptical, bike, and stair climber will be taken.  But come, February or March, not so much.  Why is that?

Why do we make resolutions only to not keep them?
Why do we set goals only to not meet them?
What keeps us from making our dreams a reality?

Excuses.

I don't have time.
I'm too tired.
It costs too much money.
I'm so busy.
I wasn't very good at that.
I don't have the skills for it.
I didn't have the support.

Excuses, excuses, excuses.

How about this year, we stop making excuses.
Even better, let's stop making resolutions.

Instead, let's actually make CHANGES!
Let's DO something!
Let's reach our goals.
Let's make our dreams our reality.

This past year has been HUGE for me and my family.  We have DONE something.  We have met many of our goals, and exceeded quite a few too!  We are making our dreams our reality.  In fact, we are having to dream new dreams, bigger dreams.

Why?
Because of It Works...

When I first heard about It Works and saw people's posts on facebook about the wraps, I had plenty of excuses as to why that wasn't for me, why I wasn't going to be a part of It Works.  But, then, a good friend helped me see how GOOD our products are - how they are all-natural, how they benefit people's health, how they can change people's lives.

So, I stopped making excuses.
I did something -- I became a distributor on February 9, 2013.
And as a result, my life (and my family's life) has changed.

We've paid extra on our mortgage every single month.
We went on 3 mini vacations, all paid for in cash.
We paid for Christmas in cash.
When emergencies or unexpected bills came up, we paid in cash (from my It Works account).
When I lost half of my daycare kiddos, I didn't have to worry and fret and rush to find more.  It Works more than covered that lost income.
When one of my remaining daycare kiddos stayed home with his mom while she was on maternity leave, again It Works covered that lost income.
When I had my baby girl and took maternity leave myself, It Works once more covered my lost income.
My husband and I have paid for every date we have gone on this year in cash.
We even hired a babysitter a few times, and paid her well!  (usually, we just have friends watch our girls for free and then do the same for them - a great arrangement still)
My husband got a new weed-eater and grill, with my It Works cash.
I paid for my trip to Florida - airplane ticket, hotel room, and conference ticket - in cash.
We have been able to bless family and friends and strangers every single month, in ways we never could have without my It Works income.

These may not be huge changes, but they are changes. And they are life-changing as well.

Things are only going to get bigger and better in 2014.  It Works Global is only going to grow and expand as a company. They offered some amazing promotions this year -- like the $10,000 bonus I earned -- and will offer even more this coming year.

So, don't do what I did for almost a year.  Don't make excuses as to why you can't be a part of It Works.  For every excuse, I have a "comeback," a reason why you can and SHOULD join the team and become part of this wonderful family!!!

"I'm not good at sales"
I'm not either.  Thankfully, the products really sell themselves.  
Oh, and have you ever told a friend how much you love your shampoo, a store, a restaurant and then your friend tried it and loves it too?  BOOM!!!  You're a salesperson.  You're perfect for this!

"I'm broke" 
I didn't have extra cash lying around either.  In fact, 2 years ago (so just a year before I joined It Works) we were on WIC and had no idea how we would pay our bills each month.
You can find a way to get the money for your kit.  $99.  $99 that will change your life!  Have a yard sale, pawn something, do what you have to do because honestly is your current job going to change the fact that you're broke?  I make more with It Works than I do with my daycare job!  AND I still get to stay home and be with my 3 girls every day.

"My friends and family think network marketing is a scam!!!"
So did mine, but guess what? They're not paying my bills or supporting my children so who cares what they think?! Oh and it definitely works *see above!  OR let me tell you about countless other It Works distributors whose lives have been changed (and are still being changed) because of this company.

"I'm new to my area and don't know anyone."
Only 2 of my team members are in "my" area.  I have team members all over the country and love that!  The more spread out your network is, the faster your team grows! 

"I'm a stay at home mom and don't have anyone to watch my kids"
This is me!!! I have built my business from home and got out when I could. So can you!!
In fact, one of the best things about this business is that YOU are your own boss and get to set your hours and decide when and how you will work.  You can incorporate it into your life.  Heck, my girls are my little helpers.  They hand out coupons and samples and help me get my supplies ready for wrap appointments and parties.  I even made them shirts that say, "It Works Future Wrap Star."  So cute!  

"I have a full time job, a family and I just don't have any time."
SO MANY of the people on my team were/are in the same boat!!! It sounds like you need a way to own your time, rather than being a slave to someone else's time clock. Build this business in the time you do have and it will change your life. Countless people on my team have done it, so can you. And the truth is...the busiest people on my team are the most successful. Busy people get stuff done!!!

"I've tried network marketing before and it didn't work for me."
Even if you've tried network marketing before you've never been with this company, with this product, at this time.  You've also never worked with me.  I would love to mentor, train, support, encourage, and work along side you to help you be successful, to help you meet your goals, to help you change your life.  

"What if I fail?"
What if you succeed? I did and I will show you how I did it!  And how YOU can and will too!

Enough excuses!! This is the opportunity you've been looking for, this is the change you want. If you're serious about reaching your goals and making your dreams a reality, you'll get started today!!!

No more resolutions!!!  
No more excuses.

Instead, actually make CHANGES!
DO something!
Reach your goals.
Make your dreams reality.

Let's talk about how It Works can help make all this happen!
Let's make 2014 a year to remember!  Together!



Post-Holiday Detox

Are you feeling a bit sluggish after the holidays?  All the rich foods have you bloated?  Did you gain a few extra unwanted pounds?

Have you ever thought about doing a detox or considered a cleanse?  I know I have!  But then, I always wonder what is the best way to detox and cleanse my body.  How should I go about getting my body back to "normal?"  And how long should that take?

You can google "detox" or "cleanse" and get a plethora of ideas and techniques.  Everyone has an opinion.  Which strategy is best, though?  And WHY?

Well, I thought we could weed through the information together.  Then, I'm going to share what I plan on doing personally for my post-holiday detox and cleanse.

For starters, here is an article that gives a great overview of what a detox is and how to go about doing one.

Did you have any of the signs/symptoms that would indicate your body is in need of a detox or cleanse?
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Sluggish elimination
  • Irritated skin
  • Allergies
  • Low-grade infections
  • Puffy eye or bags under the eyes
  • Bloating
  • Menstrual problems
  • Mental confusion
I'm guessing that almost everyone can say YES to at least one of those, especially just after the holidays!  Great, so we know we have a problem, but HOW do we go about fixing it?

I love how the article broke it down for us:
Basically, detoxification means cleaning the blood. This is done by removing impurities from the blood in the liver, where toxins are processed for elimination. The body also eliminates toxins through the kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymph and skin. However, when this system is compromised, impurities aren't properly filtered and every cell in the body is adversely affected. 

Okay, so we need to get rid of impurities and toxins.  Now, how do we do THAT?! Remember the 5 steps the article suggested:
1. Resting the organs through fasting;
2. Stimulating the liver to drive toxins from the body;
3. Promoting elimination through the intestines, kidneys and skin;
4. Improving circulation of the blood; and
5. Refueling the body with healthy nutrients. 

The article went on to explain 10 specific ways you can go about detoxing and cleansing your body.  I personally like nice, even numbers like 10, but just in case you want some more ideas, here are three other articles with detox tips and ideas!

Hopefully, you have some good ideas now!

Here's what I'm going to be doing, personally.  Remember, I am a nursing mom, so doing a full-blown detox or cleanse with fasting or only drinking juices wouldn't be wise for me (even for a day or two).  Instead, I'm going to be eating clean, meaning that my "diet" will consist mainly of meats, veggies, and fruits.  AND I am already gluten-free, so I don't have to eliminate a lot of starches that might be common in other people's regular food routines.

My plan:
*Breakfast: oatmeal or gluten-free hot cereal with pecans and blueberries (or another kind of berry); 2 eggs; glass of water with 2 scoops of It Works greens.
I also like to start my day by reading God's Word.
It's kind of my way of meditating (like some of the articles suggested).
*Lunch: smoothie and juice
These are ingredients I use for a typical smoothie.  You can mix up the fruit and flavor of kefir.
I always put in 1-2 scoops of greens and 1 scoop of the protein powder (no added sugars in It Works ProFIT).
Here's another smoothie "recipe".  The spinach is a great addition!!!
Snack: homemade trail mix (almonds, pecans, raisins, cranberries, banana chips, sunflower seeds); fresh fruit or veggies (possibly with hummus)

Supper: this will vary from night to night, but again it will be clean and gluten-free.  So lots of protein and veggies.  Lean and green is the way to go!

I'll be drinking water throughout the day, lots of water.  About a gallon, or more!  You should really be drinking at least half your weight in water every day.  For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should drink at least 75 ounces, or around 9 glasses (8 oz each), of water each day.



One reason I love the It Works greens is because they are so quick and easy to use.  You don't have to own a juicer, buy organic produce, or take the time to do the juicing.  You just dump 2 scoops into 8 ounces of water or 100% juice or a smoothie, and there you go -- 8+ servings of organic, non-GMO fruits and veggies and probiotics to boot.  You're helping balance your pH levels and alkalize your body.  Your immune system will be stronger, and you will be less likely to get sick.  AND you're helping eliminate those nasty toxins from your body.  That's what a detox and cleanse is all about, remember?!!  Oh, and did I mention, the greens are about $1 a day -- way cheaper than it would cost me to buy everything to make a homemade juice (though I do like to make an apple, celery, carrot juice once or twice a week).

If you want more information on the It Works greens, check out my website: sarahyoung.myitworks.com

We also have other all-natural supplements and products that can help you as you detox and cleanse.  I will be using some of those as well -- like the wraps.






I've already used 2 wraps since having my little girl in November.  I gained 40 pounds this pregnancy (twice as much as I did with my previous 2 pregnancies) even though I ate healthy and exercised all 9/10 months.  I am excited to get my pre-baby body back.  I know it will take some hard work, but I know it's totally worth it.  Not only will I like how I look, but I will FEEL so much better too!


I am looking forward to starting the new year out with a healthy bang!  My detox and cleanse isn't just a 7-day diet, but rather a lifestyle.  You see, I want my body to feel as good as possible, all the time.  I want my body to function at full capacity, all the time.  I want to live life to the fullest and enjoy every day I am given.  My goal is to get the most out of life, and I know that having a healthy body plays a huge role in that!

If you are interested in joining me in my quest for healthy living, I would love to chat with you.  We have some amazing deals right now, so if you like saving money, these are for you!  These Holiday Gift Sets have everything you need for a natural detox and cleanse...


So, there you have it.  My personal plan for detoxing and cleansing my body after the holidays.  I would LOVE for you to join me.  

Let's do this together!!!  
Let's start 2014 right -- HEALTHY!!!



Monday, December 9, 2013

Skeptic No More

A year ago, I was laughing at people who sold these crazy wrap things.  Actually, to be honest, I was looking down on them and judging them, thinking they were trying to sell a quick-fix gimmick.  I was not impressed.  In fact, I was pretty harsh in my thoughts about them.

I owe them all an apology!  A big one!

Not only have I come to realize how amazing these wraps are, but how truly beneficial they are for a person's overall health.  You see, I am extremely passionate about health.

In high school, I struggled with eating disorders.  I was anorexic and weighed 80 pounds.  Still, I thought I was fat.  In college, I continued to struggle with my body image and battled bulimia.  I used - MISused - laxatives as well.  I'm not sure what clicked in my brain and heart, but thankfully I no longer treat myself with such disrespect.

Other than God and His amazing grace and patience, my husband has played the biggest role in my transformation.  He tells me I am beautiful every day, and MEANS it. I can believe him!  And he's not just focused on what I look like -- he loves me for WHO I am, my heart, my interests, my passions, my personality.  Yes, he thinks I am beautiful on the outside, but much more importantly, he loves me for what truly matters -- the inside!

In my years since graduating from high school and college, I have learned to value health -- to eat right and exercise and take care of my body.  I now see my health as an investment.  I want to live life to the fullest and know that good health plays a huge role in that.  I have a pretty extensive bucket list with things like sky diving, snow skiing, bungee jumping, backpacking in Europe, going on an African safari, and more.  All those things require pretty good health.

It's not just about me though; I am a wife and mom now.  And so I care deeply about my husband's health and my 3 daughters' health.  I want them to enjoy life to the fullest with me.  I want to make special memories with them, as many as possible!  Again, that means investing in their health and doing everything we can to make sure our bodies are as strong and healthy as we can.  We eat lots of fruits and veggies in our home.  We take vitamins.  We go on bike rides and hikes and enjoy the outdoors as a family.  I could go on, but I'm pretty sure you get the idea.

 My passion for health goes beyond my own family.  I want EVERYONE to be able to live life to the fullest, and so I want to help everyone invest in their health.  And that's where being an It Works distributor comes in.

Now, you might be wondering how selling these crazy wraps encourages people to invest in their health.  At first, I thought these wraps were more about helping someone get into a pair of skinny jeans or look sexy in a little black dress.  That did not appeal to me.  Yes, looking good is nice, but it's not the heart of the matter.  Not for me, at least.  In fact, I don't want anything to do with making women think they have to look a certain way to be beautiful.  I think our culture does a good enough job of bombarding us with images of the "perfect woman" and trying to convince us that we can look like her - when in reality those models are airbrushed like crazy.  Not to mention they go to extreme measures to look they way they do, and in the process might not be truly healthy or taking care of their bodies as they should.  And then there's the idea of treating our bodies with respect and dignity, not as sexual objects meant to please someone.

So those would be all the reasons I am NOT an It Works distributor.
And here's why I AM an It Works distributor, and quite passionate about what I do!

The wraps are GOOD for your body, benefiting it from the inside out!



The wraps provide HOPE.
Having just had a baby, I am not all that fond of the way I look.  When I see myself in the mirror, I am not impressed. Getting dressed every day is not fun.  I actually hate going into my closet to pick out what to wear.  Nothing fits right.  Nothing looks good, at least not in my opinion.  I'm at that weird stage where I'm not pregnant anymore and don't want to wear my maternity clothes BUT my pre-baby clothes don't fit quite yet.  Everything is either too big and baggy or too small and tight.  Not flattering either way.  Because I don't feel good about how I look, I am extremely self-conscious.  I'm not able to enjoy myself when I go out in public.  And so I just want to stay inside, where no one will see me.

Um, not exactly living life to the fullest.
Not exactly what I have in mind for myself - or anyone for that matter!

Last night, though, I used a wrap for the very first time (I was pregnant when I became a distributor, so while I have wrapped countless other people, I have never been able to experience the wrap for myself).  I LOVE my results and have hope that I will indeed get my pre-baby body back. Granted, it won't be over night, but it will happen.  Yes, I will have to work at it, but it will happen.  I have hope again!!!  And so today, when I headed out to run errands with my 3 girls, I wasn't depressed and self-conscious and worried about what I looked like.  Instead, I felt good about what was happening in my body and the changes that will continue to take place.  Hope!!!
12 hours after my first wrap -- I was amazed at my results!!!


The wraps provide MOTIVATION.
Because I have hope, I know that I can get my pre-baby body back.  That hope motivates me to work hard to make that happen.  I'm motivated to eat right and to exercise.  When I have a craving for chocolate or am tempted to just eat whatever I can find really fast, I remember my wrap results.  And I'm motivated to make a good choice and pick something healthy to eat.  When I am tired or don't necessarily feel like exercising, I remember my wrap results.  And I'm motivated to go for a walk, lift some weights, go to the gym for a class, or do a work-out DVD.  Granted, since I am just 3 weeks post-partum, my work-out isn't going to be that intense, but I will be exercising and gradually increase the length and difficulty of my work-out session.  Because of my wrap results, I am motivated to make good choices throughout the day, every day.

I think others feel the same way.  When I wrap someone and they see their results, first they are super excited and feel really good.  That hope turns to motivation as they want to maintain their results and continue to invest in their health.

The wraps provide INSPIRATION.
When people see their results, they are inspired that they really can change.  They believe in themselves again.  They are excited about the way they look and feel, and know it's only going to get better as they make good choices like eating right and exercising.  They are hopeful about the future and start to dream of all the things they will be able to do as a result of their improved health.

As we share people's stories who have wrapped and have changed their lives as a result, others are inspired that the wraps can do the same for them.  The same is true for our other health products too.  I LOVE sharing testimonies of men and women who use our greens or vitamins or other natural supplements.  I love how they have lost weight, gone of medications, are free of pain, and able to do so much more.  They are living life to the fullest, and I LOVE that!!!  That's exactly why I started this business in the first place!

As I said, these crazy wraps are A.MAZ.ING!!!  

10 months ago if you would have told me I would be selling wraps, I would have rolled my eyes and laughed at you.  Today, I am no longer a skeptic!!!  I am firm believer in what these wraps can do for men and women - transforming their lives from the inside out!

And so I ask you -- have YOU tried that crazy wrap thing?

If not, what's keeping you from trying?

I would love to hear your questions.
Even more, I would love to get a wrap on you and help you see for yourself how wonderful they are.

Message me for more information or check out my website!!!
Mention this blog post, and I will give you a special discount on a wrap session!



Tuesday, December 3, 2013

21 Days

This morning I took a picture of my breakfast, my vitamins, and my Bible.  I posted the picture on facebook.

My husband thinks I live through facebook because I post so many pictures on my page throughout the day.  Every day.

I mean, I am sure everyone is on the edge of their seats in the morning waiting for me to announce what I am eating for breakfast.  How can they possibly start their day without this vital information?! :)

My post today was more about how I have heard it takes 21 days to develop a habit.  My intention was to encourage people to start the day with a nutritious breakfast and to spend time in God's Word.  To me those two things are central to having a good day.  Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  Reading God's Word is one of the best ways to spend time with the Creator of the universe, YOUR Creator, YOUR Father, YOUR Friend.

Evidently, people are interested in what I eat for breakfast because a friend of mine wanted to know more about the vitamins I take.  She actually suggested I write a blog post on it.  So, here we are!

While I was pregnant, this was my morning vitamin ritual:


Even though I've had the baby, it's pretty much the same.  Except I don't take the evening primrose oil anymore (it helps the cervix thin out and prepare for birth).  I also don't take the B-6 since I am not struggling with morning/all day sickness (yes, I fight that until the day my babies are born).

Here's my layout now:
This morning I took my prenatals since I am breastfeeding.  I will take those until I'm not nursing anymore, but that will be quite awhile, and hopefully I will get pregnant again shortly after that.  So, I just plan on being on my prenatals for a good long time.  I think I have been taking them for the past 4+ years now since my oldest daughter just turned 4, my middle daughter is 2, and I have a 2 week-old.

I also took 2 alfalfa vitamins to help with my postpartum bleeding.  I took them during pregnancy to help minimize my bleeding, and it has definitely made a difference!

I had an It Works Omega-3.
I took these during pregnancy to help with baby's brain development and will keep taking them since Omega-3's have sooo many benefits.


I had an It Works Mineral vitamin as well.
Here are just a few of the benefits that come with it:

I'm a healthy eater, but I know I never get all the vitamins and minerals I need every day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  So I am glad I can take one supplement to help me out with that.  Best part -- it has a delicious minty taste!

And of course, I had my It Works Greens!!!  I just added 2 scoops (1 teaspoon total of powder) to my glass of water and mixed it up.  I personally like the taste (of the berry flavor) and don't mind the green color at all!  I absolutely LOVE all the greens do for me:

I don't think I have missed taking my greens since I started using them back in February of this year (2013).  Everyone in my family uses them on a regular basis.  My 2 and 4 year girls actually ask for them most days!
Sometimes we have them in orange juice.

Other days we put them in our smoothies.

Well, there you have it.  Now you know what vitamins I take every morning and why I take them.  I love that I know I am starting each day investing in my health and giving my body what it needs to function as it was made to do.  I also like that it's not costing me an arm and a leg.  I don't mind spending money on quality vitamins though, as I know that doing so will help my body stay strong and healthy and hopefully give me more time on this earth to enjoy my family and make precious memories with them.

If you want more information about any of the vitamins/supplements I take, I would love to answer any questions you have!  You can always check out my website too!!!  In fact, you can order right from the website and get 40% off on your order as a loyal customer.  OR, you could take advantage of some of the Holiday Gift Sets we have available for a very limited time and cash in on some A.MAZ.ING savings!




These holiday packages might be just the thing to help YOU develop a good habit!  
Why not try the vitamins and supplements for 21 days and see if you notice a difference....


Monday, December 2, 2013

How You End Is How You Start

Say what?!

Yep, how you end 2013 is how you are going to start 2014.

Think about it...

If you overeat and indulge NOW, what is going to stop you from doing that in 2014?

If you aren't exercising NOW, what is going to change so that you do in 2014?

If you aren't spending time with God NOW, how is that going to be any different come January 1?

If you are busy and stressed NOW, how is that going to magically stop when you put up a new calendar?

I know the holidays are typically a time when we forgo any resolution to eat right or exercise.  We don't have time to sit and just read a book.  For some reason we feel the need to be on every committee and involved in every project and have our house decorated like it's going to featured in a magazine, and so we get busier and busier and more and more stressed.

Guess what happens as a result?

We miss out on the joy of the season.
And after all is said and done, we don't feel so good about how we look either -- given that the average person gains 5-10 pounds between Halloween and Christmas!

So then, we start the new year off sluggish and tired and full of regrets.
If only I hadn't eaten that second piece of pumpkin pie.
If only I had taken the time to go to the gym.
If only I hadn't spent so much on gifts (as you get that first credit card bill in the mail).
If only....

Well, we can't change the past, BUT we can decide to make better choices and make the future different!

AND we don't have to wait until January 1 to turn over a new leaf.
Who says you can only set goals and have dreams and make resolutions come the new year?!

That seems pretty ridiculous to me...

Although I do think taking time to reflect is very good.  In fact, I think it's extremely beneficial to write out your goals and dreams.  I have a list of my goals posted on the fridge so I can see them every day.  Be it Monday or Thursday, January or August or December, I can see my goals and be reminded to work towards reaching them.  If I don't do it today, then when will I? 

Tomorrow?  I said that yesterday.  (I just wrote a blog about that actually!) 

Nope, if something is going to happen, if my dreams are going to become reality, then I have to do something about it TODAY!  Every day.

And so how I end 2013 is how I am going to begin 2014.
The same is true for you too.

We may be working on different goals.  We may have different dreams.
BUT, we can encourage and support each other as we strive to meet those goals and fulfill those dreams.

I would love to come along side you and help you have a great finish to 2013 and an even better start to 2014!

Who am I kidding?  I NEED YOU to come along side me!!  I need the help!

We all do...

So, what do you think?  Are you in?

How you end is how you start...

Let's come together and finish strong so we can start with an even bigger bang!

Friday, November 29, 2013

Tomorrow Is Today


Yesterday, you vowed you would eat right tomorrow.

Yesterday, you promised you would exercise tomorrow.

Yesterday, you guaranteed that tomorrow would be different.

Yesterday, you committed to making changes to your life tomorrow.

Well, tomorrow is now today!

So, let's get started!!!



What does that make over look like?  

For each person it will be different, based on individual situations and goals and dreams.

The important thing - and the same thing - for every single person, no matter how young or old, no matter how big or small their dreams, no matter how lofty their goals...is that they start.


Again, don't put off whatever it is that you need to do.

Eat right, exercise, tell the truth, spend time with your kids, save money instead of spending it, call a family member, write a note to a friend (in fact, I just stopped writing this blog to go and send a quick message to my dear friend who is getting married tomorrow - since I can't be at the wedding in person, I wanted to make sure she knew I am thinking of her and praying for her both today and tomorrow!), take cookies to a neighbor, visit someone at the nursing home, smile at the cashier, stop and talk to the other moms in the library, whatever you need to do....

Just do it!

Yesterday, you said tomorrow.  Well, tomorrow is now today.

So, let's get started....



Thursday, November 14, 2013

No Time?

Don't have any spare time?  Too busy to add one more thing to your plate?

Perfect!!!

It Works can change your life!

Take for example these true stories of real life men and women:

*Jen Keller who started when she was homeschooling 7 of her 8 kids.  Her hubby was an airplane pilot at the time and would be gone for 2 weeks at a time. AND she lives in a small town where she rarely sees people other than her children.  NOW, her hubby is "retired" and she's a Presidential Diamond ($16,000 a month).


*Shauntel Lyons started when she was working full time and going to grad school.  She's a mom of 2 young children.  NOW, she stays at home and is a top 20 earner in the company (an Ambassador averaging $30,000 a month).  Her hubby is a Presidential Diamond (averages $16,000 a month).


*Lori Conway started when her 4 kids were 1,3,5, and 7.  NOW, her hubby also stays at home, having retired from his leadership job at the bank.  They are among the top 10 earners in the company.



*Stephanie Doss is an attorney and Triple Diamond (average $10,000 a month).


*Liz Barton was the Instructional Coach (at my hubby's school) and her hubby worked 60+ hours a week at his job.  NOW, they both stay home full time with their 2 young boys.  Ambassador Diamonds ($30,000 a month).

These men and women probably didn't have time for It Works.

But then again, they didn't have time to not make time for it either.

In just 2 years, all of these individuals and families' lives have changed drastically.  They now OWN THEIR TIME and are able to spend MORE TIME with their kids and loved ones.

So, maybe you don't have time.  Or at least that's what you are thinking...
I want you to think again and ask yourself to reconsider.

What if.....

What if you took the chance and joined It Works?
What if you could work the business even part time and make extra money for your family?
What if that extra money would mean that you could pay off debt?
What if that extra money meant you could go on a special vacation with your family?
What if that extra money mean you could stay home with your kids?
What if that extra money would give you the opportunity to help others change their lives?

Still don't have time?

Neither did I, really.

When I started, I was a mom of 2 and am now expecting baby #3 any day!
I do in-home daycare for 1-3 other children.
I teach childbirth classes and am a doula.  I am almost done with my lactation educator certification as well.
I am involved in the community and our church.

I could have said I was too busy, that I didn't have time.
Instead, I decided I didn't have time to NOT do this.  I NEEDED to do this.
It Works is actually giving me MORE time, MORE freedom, MORE opportunities to be with my kids and do MORE things with my family.  I have MORE opportunities to give and to help others.

Just 9 months after starting, I am now a Diamond with the company (average $1,900 a month) and am working on becoming Double Diamond ($6,000 a month).  Not that the money is everything, but it will allow me to someday not do in-home daycare, meaning I get to be "just" a mom to my own kiddos and spend MORE time with them.  I am certainly excited about that!

I am also thrilled with the opportunities we have had to bless others these past 9 months in ways that we never would have been able to before It Works.  That to me is soooooo important and one of the major reasons why I started in the first place.

The other 4 are: my husband, my 4 year old, my 2 year old, and my baby who should be born any day now!

So, what are your reasons?

Think about those.
And then ask yourself one more time:

Do you have time for It Works?

I think so!!!

In fact, I believe you don't have time to not make time for it!!!

(and if for some reason you don't want to sell the products, I firmly believe you have time to use them so that you can invest in your health and get the most out of every day you are given!)

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Cash for Christmas

Fall just started.  The weather forecast finally has 70's for every day this next week.  I wore my first scarf of the season this weekend.  If I wasn't 36 weeks pregnant, I would have broken out the boots too.  My girls and I made pumpkin shaped sugar cookies last week.  On tap for this week are some apple recipes and of course more pumpkin goodies!!!  We decorated our porch this weekend with pumpkins and mums and a hay bale.  We have plans to go to the pumpkin patch later this week as a family.

Fall is here, and I am so excited!!!  This is my favorite time of the year.

Well, I do like the Christmas season too....

BUT, I like to enjoy fall FIRST!

Why, then, am I going to blog about "Cash for Christmas?!"

Because I am a planner and like to be prepared and ready for what is coming.  I like to have my dates on the calendar, all the details worked out, and everything beyond ready.  (As I type, I am watching a news story on Black Friday prices, so apparently other people do too....)

I also like to be financially responsible.  I am a frugal person by nature.  Spending money, especially mine, is hard for me.  I don't mind getting practical things, but you better believe even then I look for the best bargain I can find.  We hit the thrift stores, the sales racks, the clearance aisles before looking anywhere else!

So, when I am told to make a list of things I want for Christmas, I have a hard time.  I don't really NEED anything.  I have more than enough already.  And I feel guilty for asking someone to get me MORE when there are people in this world, right next door perhaps, who go without the basics on a regular basis.

I also have a difficult time making gift lists for my two girls.  We have MORE than enough toys, clothes, books, and anything and everything else who can imagine.  I know there are kids out there with so much less, and again I feel guilty asking people to get MORE for my girls.

I enjoy getting things for others, though.  I like seeing the joy on their faces when they open a present.  I like being able to bless others, in big and small ways and everything in between.

That's the primary reason I am excited about the Christmas Cash Bonuses It Works has announced recently!


We always pay cash for our Christmas presents -- we put aside $25 into a special Gift Savings Account every month and use that money for birthday, anniversary, and Christmas presents throughout the year.  We set a limit on how much we can spend when we buy gifts for people.  We try to be as financially responsible and reasonable as possible, even as we seek to make Christmas special and fun.

Thankfully, this year we already have all the money we need for our Christmas presents set aside.  In years past, we have had NO money for Christmas and were desperate to figure out how to get gifts for our family members and our two small girls.

So, this year, when I found out about the Cash for Christmas bonuses I will be able to earn from It Works, I got excited about how we can use that $500-$3,000 to bless others!  We can adopt a family and make sure THEY have gifts for Christmas.  We can do some special holiday activities and invite friends to join us at no cost to them.  I don't know what all we can or will do with the money, but I am sure God will show us!  He's really good at that!

Maybe, you're thinking it's nice that we have all our money saved for Christmas already and wish you could say the same for your family.  Maybe, you're in the same place we were a couple of years ago and worried how you are even going to have money to buy presents for  your children or have a special meal.

I don't know your present situation.  I just know that I want to share this opportunity to earn Cash for Christmas with everyone I can.  You can use the money to pay for your own family's Christmas or to bless others or both.  It's YOUR money!!!

I just want to show you how to earn these Christmas bonuses and help you get the cash in your pocket.

I know the holiday season is fun, but it can also be stressful.  I would like to help eliminate as much of that stress as possible.  Because, let's be honest....finances and money can lead to tension and headaches and sleepless nights.

If earning some extra cash for Christmas sounds at all good to you, just let me know!!  We can talk, and I will tell you everything you need to know to earn $500 (and more) in time for the holidays!

Check out my website, visit me on facebook, send me an email, call me...

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Future Wrap Stars

I've written blog posts in the past about teaching my children healthy living practices while they are young and how they just might grow up to be future "wrap girls."  Today, as I was playing with my daughters, I was reminded yet again how much my "job" impacts them and their thinking.

I was sitting on the floor building block towers with my girls, when the oldest (3.5 years) asked me, "Mommy, can you please get my vitamin and blueberry stuff?"

What 3.5 year old ASKS for her vitamin?!  Like it's a highlight of her day.

Ironically enough, I told her, "No, not right now.  Let's wait until your sister takes her nap after lunch."  You see, my 21 month old had already had her vitamin this morning and would get quite upset if she saw her oldest sister getting a vitamin.  Sometimes, the only thing I can do is give my youngest a second vitamin to console her!  I didn't feel like caving in today, so I told my oldest she had to wait.

And she didn't forget either.  She never does.  As soon as her sister was down for a nap, my oldest asked again, "Mommy can I please have my vitamin now?"

This time I was happy to oblige.  I mean what mom doesn't dream of their children begging for vitamins? :)

To make my day even better, during lunch, my oldest tells me, "Mommy these are sooooo yummy!" as she gobbled up her edamame.  LOVE how she actually likes to eat veggies (and fruits too).

Not too long after this, my oldest reminded me she still hadn't had her "blueberry stuff."  And so I gladly got out the blueberry kefir and added a scoop of greens (like we do every day).  No sooner had I handed her the cup was her drink gone!!  She LOVES her kefir with greens!!!  I was actually surprised she let me make it for her, as she has been insisting that she's old enough to make her own drink these days.


 As I sit here thinking about my 3.5 year old's requests today, I am mindful that she had to be TAUGHT to think this way.  She had to see this lifestyle modeled so that she would know how to make healthy choices in the first place.

When I first joined It Works as a distributor, I was somewhat worried about what message I would be sending to my young girls.  I didn't in any way want them to misunderstand and think I was telling people who wrapped that they needed to be thin or a certain size to be beautiful/handsome.  I am very careful to explain what the wraps do and how they are GOOD for your bodies, helping people get healthy from the inside out.

And because my oldest doesn't forget anything, I am glad to know she's been paying attention.  I am thrilled to see her putting these healthy choices (mainly eating right) into practice on her own!!!

She's actually one of my biggest helpers, making sure I give out Greens on the Go packets wherever we go. She gets quite upset if I don't hand out the packets to people when we are talking.  The other day she grabbed my purse in the check out line at the grocery store and got the greens packet and wrap coupon ready for me.  She then insisted on giving them both to the cashier herself!!  My youngest wanted in on the action too, though, so we had to settle for one of them giving the cashier the greens and the other one giving her the wrap coupon.


I love how It Works is making such a positive impact in my girls' lives at a young age!!!  If they grow up to be "wrap girls," I would be proud.  But heck, they don't have to wait until they grow up...they're not FUTURE wrap stars...they're already wrap stars NOW!

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Playdough Snow Cones

What do you do for a living?

I make playdough snow cones.

At least that is one of the first things on Quinten's job description.

I also get to play Crazy 8's, swim all day, or play dress up.

Last night, at our monthly It Works team meeting/training, I teared up as I listened to one of our leaders share how joining his wife in selling wraps, greens, supplements, and skin care products has changed his life.  Before It Works, he had a good job at a bank, making good money and feeling pretty good about the way he was able to provide for his family.  Then, his wife came home from a Wrap Party wearing saran wrap over a WWF looking belt thing on her stomach.  He wasn't too impressed...

Now, two years later, he is a stay-at-home dad partnering with his wife as some of the top sellers for It Works.  Yesterday, he was in the kitchen with his wife as they watched their youngest daughter run around the house in a princess tutu.  Turning to his wife, he remarked, "Did our older daughter like to do this?  I don't remember her ever playing dress up like our younger daughter does."  Shocked, his wife answered, "Oh my goodness!  Yes, our older daughter loved to dress up and wore princess tutus all the time!"

"I wonder why I don't remember that?" questioned the dad.

"Oh yeah, that's back when I was working at least 60 hours a week and didn't actually get to spend time with our kids."

As this couple stood before our team, sharing how this crazy wrap business has changed their lives, they were in tears.  I was in tears.

When, I got home from the meeting, my two young girls opened the door as soon as they heard me pulling into the garage.  I was overwhelmed with love and joy and thankfulness as I get to stay at home with these precious girls.  I get to spend every day with them.  I get to read books, build towers, do puzzles, color pictures, bake yummy goodies, and play dress up.



I don't want to miss any of this, not for the world.  And I don't have to!!!  I get to work from home.  And as I do, I am creating a legacy for my children that will not only affect them now but for many, many, many years to come.  At least that is my hope and prayer.  I certainly want to make special memories with my daughters every single day, but I also want to lay a foundation so they can do the same with their children twenty, thirty years from now!

I know staying at home isn't everyone's dream.  But it is mine.  I remember in college when I would sit and talk late at night with my best friends, dreaming of the day when we would be moms playing with our kids.  We prayed for that opportunity, and boy has God answered my prayers -- in ways I never imagined!

If you would like to be able to stay home, but don't think you can afford to do so, I would LOVE to chat with you and share how It Works just might be the game changer for you.  I would LOVE to show you how you can make an additional $500 a month (or $5,000+ if you want to dream really big)!


It Works is changing my family's life, and I would LOVE the opportunity to work with you so it can do the same for your family.




Monday, September 16, 2013

Too Busy?

You're busy?

You don't have enough time in your day?

I know how you feel!!!

I have 2 young girls - ages 3.5 and 21 months.

I have a baby on the way - due in November.

I run an in-home daycare with 1-3 other kids most days.

I teach childbirth classes 1 night a week.

AND I am a distributor for It Works (which I LOVE because it fits into my busy schedule)!

Today, I did 4 loads of laundry, made supper, read books and played with my kids, fed them breakfast and lunch, unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher.  The Parents as Teachers lady came this morning and met with us for about an hour, showing me more things I can do with the girls to make sure they are "on target" for their age level in all areas.  I took a 97-question test for my Lactation Education certification and got a 97%!!!  Somewhere in all that, I also messaged about 10-15 people on facebook about a wrap party, ordering products, or wanting info on the business aspect of It Works.  I texted about 5 more people, and called a good 10-15 more!  I posted on facebook about some of our products and a wrap party that is happening tonight.  I sent individual messages to all 34 distributors on my team to see how they are doing and how I can help/encourage them as we head into the last half of the month.

So, you what was that you were saying about being too busy? You don't have enough time?

I must have an amazing husband?  Oh yes, I do!!!

But, he's pretty busy too....

He teaches 3rd grade and doesn't work 9-5, so I am home alone some evenings.

He is finishing up his masters this semester and working hard to get all his requirements met, which again means some early mornings and late nights for him. And some weekends too.  (I'm so proud of him!)

He runs an after-school program for the 5th grade boys on Wednesdays.

He is on the Pastor Search Team for our church.  They meet at least once a week, for at least 3 hours each time.  Again, this means I am home alone at least one evening a week.

Well, you think, you must never have time for family or stuff together as couple...

My husband and I are in a small group at our church.

We lead a Bible study for kids in 3rd to 7th grade every Sunday night.

We both work out each morning, at different times so that someone is home with our sleeping girls.

This weekend we watched a Narnia movie as a family, deep cleaned the house, went to 2 birthday parties, and watched some kids for a friend.  Oh, and we enjoyed some Sunday football too!

So, again, what was that you were saying about being too busy and not having enough time?

If you are at all interested in seeing how It Works can bless your socks off like it has for me and my busy family, I would LOVE to chat with you.  I can show you how to fit this business into your life and make as much (or as little) money as you want each month.  

Seriously, please contact me so we can set up a time to talk (or meet) and get you started on this amazing journey that can change your life and the lives of countless others!!!!

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

WHY?

That's the question we all have, right?

Why do bad things happen to good people?
Why do good things happen to bad people?
Why did this happen to me?
Why can't everyone just get along?
Why do gas prices keep going up?
Why does the light turn red as soon as I get to the intersection?
Why do babies poop upwards and thus have diaper explosions?


And when we're not asking WHY, we're busy answering other people ask the same thing. 
Especially if we're parents...

Why do leaves change color?
Why do dogs bark?
Why does the moon only come out at night?
Why do I have to be nice to my sister/brother?
Why do only mommies have babies?


Hopefully, the ONE question I want to ask you today isn't as annoying as your toddlers' endless WHY's or "how come's."  

So, here's my question:
WHY do you do what you do?

Now, while you think about your answer, I'm going to go ahead and answer my own question.  I'm going to share with you why I do what I do.

First and foremost, my goal in life -- the foundation for everything I do, no matter what it may be -- is to bring glory and honor to Jesus.  I want to live for Him, to make Him known, to enhance His reputation (as my high school Bible teacher once said), to draw others to Him so they too may experience the marvel of a personal relationship with Him.

Stemming from that, I want to love others the way Jesus loves me.

So, you may be thinking...
"How does being an It Works distributor help you do those things?"
"How does selling body wraps, supplements, and skin care products fit with your life goals?"

I'm so glad you asked.  
In fact, that is exactly what I want to focus on today...

I truly believe this "job" is an opportunity directly from God Himself. 

*I get to stay at home with our kids, without the need to do in-home daycare.  This gives me the privilege of teaching my children about God and life in general.  I get to watch them learn and grow and develop every single day, without missing out on special milestones.  I get to make lots of memories with my children -- big and small -- that we will treasure for years to come (I hope).

*I can do something I enjoy and feel good about.  I get to help others invest in their health, something I am passionate about.  I want people to get the most out of life, to live life to the fullest, and It Works gives me the platform to do that.  

*I get to work with some amazing people and build a network of great friends, people I would have never known if not for It Works.  Through these relationships, I am able to share how God is working in my life and in my family.  I get to live out the gospel for all to see.  And when I share my story, you better believe Jesus will be at the center of everything!  

*I am still able to contribute to our family's income.  Not only can we pay our bills, but we are also able to pay extra on our mortgage, put money in savings, and have the freedom to "splurge" on little treats without feeling guilty or worrying about what other expense we are going to have to cut out.

*We are able to use the extra money I make each month to turn around and bless others.  This is HUGE!!!  This is one of the biggest reasons I decided to join It Works.  I looked at what distributors could potentially make and dreamed of all the ways we would be able to give to others, to help those around us, to make a difference in the lives of so many people (some we know well and some we don't know at all).  This is the primary reason I decided to take the leap and become a distributor.  THIS is why I post on facebook every day.  THIS is why I walk up to random strangers to give them a coupon for a wrap.  THIS is why I hand out greens samples everywhere we go.  THIS is why I dream big and want to keep promoting in the company.  THIS is why I do what I do!!! 


For that reason, I'm pretty excited about what is going on at It Works this week.  September 7 is our company's worldwide GIVE BACK DAY.  Each distributor gets to pick an individual or charity and then donate a portion of their wrap sales to that person/organization.  


I've personally picked three families I want to bless...




 I need YOUR help to make a difference in these kids' lives!!!  All you have to do is buy a wrap for $30 this week and all my profits will go to the family of your choice.  

Pretty simple.  And yet, so profound!!!  

I was going to end there, but I decided I need to ask you one more question.  Just one...

Well, it's the one I already asked, actually.

Why do you do what you do?

You thought you were going to get out of answering, didn't you! :)  I can't let you off the hook that easily, now can I?!

As you think about your answer, I'd like you to consider if It Works could help you carry out your life goals and fulfill your dreams.  I never imagined that selling wraps, supplements, and skin care products would be a way I could bring glory to Jesus, make Him known, or love others.  And yet, here I am!!!

I am so thankful God has given me this opportunity, and I just want to share it with you, with everyone.  For more information, you can check out my website or contact me personally.  

I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you have, even if they all begin with WHY! :)