Today\u2019s a special day — for two reasons. And, both of them are close to my heart.<\/p>\n
July 12th would have been my Grandma Ann\u2019s 103 birthday! Born in Czechoslovakia in 1914, her parents shipped Ann and her sister to the United States at the ripe young age of 14. As parents, their hearts were filled with hopes that their children would have the opportunity to live the American dream. Ann\u2019s mother and father stayed behind, planning to join them the following year. They never came.<\/p>\n
I can only imagine the challenges she faced. A young woman in a distant land. Miles away from her parents and friends and other loved ones. No cell phones or internet or Skype to stay in touch. The obstacles she overcame, the courage she had no choice but to embrace, the grace and love she gave to everyone she touched — these will always be imprinted on my heart and soul.<\/p>\n
From my Grandma, I pull much inner strength that inspires me as a mother of three beautiful children, a wife of a thoughtful and generous husband, and as an entrepreneur who loves serving others.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m truly blessed to have such a powerful example of a woman in my life — a woman of determination, grace and a strong work ethic. For that, my dear Grandma, I thank you. Happy Birthday! Today, she would be proud. Today, she is PROUD.<\/p>\n
While I look back and reflect upon my heritage, I also look forward with a heart bubbling with gratitude, excitement, and possibility!<\/p>\n
As I remember and draw upon the strength of my Grandma, I look forward, today, to re-launching my company — Smart to Finish\u2122<\/strong> — with a brand new website!<\/p>\n