What is family life like now?
My son Alex is now almost thirteen and is a rough and tumble sports enthusiast. He enjoys having the company named after him, but doesn’t like when it becomes a subject of conversation for me. Hubby, Steve, is still working with getting our product manufactured properly, and is back being a consultant for the souvenir industry. I finally retired from Delta after 34 years, and have started my second life at age 53. I thoroughly enjoy what I do, and I truly believe that I was capable of pulling this off through the many years of life experience that I had dealing with the public and life in general.
What falls by the wayside when balancing business and personal life?
My family is very content lately to eat “out” most of the time. I still have time to do Mom things, but cleaning and cooking are left to the professionals. When things get tough, either at home or at work, my best friend LaNaya (friend of over 35 years) is ALWAYS there to support me and tell me how great I am (even when I don’t feel great or even good).
Who has been your biggest source of inspiration?
My Dad always said that I could do whatever I set my mind to do. He gave me inspiration to make it. I only wish that I could listen to one more of those “war stories” that he always told when I didn’t do the right thing. He would be proud today for sure.
What advice would you offer to those following in your footsteps?
For any mom who is thinking of developing a new product, make sure you first see a good patent attorney. Unscrupulous people, who are happy to knock off your product, come in droves if your product is a good one.
Also—never take “no” for an answer if you are sure that you are right. Many people are envious that you are “going for the gold,” especially if they cannot or will not see your big picture. Also, there will be many opportunities for you to change to fit the corporate mold, don’t do it. What makes you special is who you are. Women are extremely intuitive—go with your gut. It rarely is wrong.
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