Congrats to Kendra Pierce!

Kendra Pierce has won an Elizabeth Arden gift card from NicoleInk! Her name was entered into our drawing with many others who signed up for The NicoleInk Newsletter (your monthly dose of motivation!).

Congrats, Kendra!

Stay tuned for more NicoleInk giveaways! You could be next!

Nicole

Monday Morning Mantra 09/29

Wake up, everyone! It's a beautiful Monday morning and there's lots to be done this week. Here's a mantra that will keep you on your toes:

"There is no happiness except in the realization that we have accomplished something." --Henry Ford

Here's to happiness!

Nicole

The Baltimore Book Festival

Yesterday I had a great time at The Baltimore Book Festival. It was a wonderful location with delicious food, and we met some really interesting people. Unfortunately, it rained all day - and when I say "rained," I mean RAINED, POURED, and STORMED! Despite the awful weather, we sold and signed books, talked to people about speaking engagements, and met some really talented authors. I would definitely recommend the event to other authors, folks in the publishing industry, and locals who want to check out great books.

I also have to tell you that I ate a delicious crab melt gyro for lunch at the tent beside us. I can't remember the name of the restaurant, but it was delish! I'll have to track them down!

Special, special, special thanks to Kendria and Meron who braved the wet weather to promote Glori and NicoleInk. Also, a special thanks to everyone who stopped by the tent, including my good friends Kia, Katrina, and Tamika. You guys are great!

Nicole

PS: You can still get a copy of Glori even if you missed the event. Click here!

A Debate Party?

Sounds like an oxymoron doesn't it? "Debate" and "party" don't normally go together, but all week I've been getting emails that encourage me to attend a presidential debate party in my area. To be honest, I would never have considered this in previous elections. The excitement for a party just wasn't there. But this year, I'm on the edge of my seat to hear Obama and McCain talk about the economy, foreign affairs, and other important issues that affect us each and every day.

Hopefully, the debate will actually take place. At this point, it's still in limbo as McCain doesn't want to participate unless an agreement has been reached in the bail-out situation.

Ugh... If it does, I'll be having my own debate party at the house tonight with my family. Nothing fancy - just sitting on the couch with my favorite blanket and maybe a bowl of popcorn. Get informed about your candidate. Exercising your right to vote is the simplest way to change your world!

Don't miss it: Presidential Debate - 9PM EST

Five Great Inspirational Movies

Many of you know that I've been taking care of my mom for the past few weeks, and I've never watched so many movies in my life! Some have been good, and some have been plain old horrible, but the best ones made me realize that watching a good movie can inspire us in our real-life challenges. Here are five inspirational movies:

1. The Bucket List
2. My Life
3. Remember the Titans
4. The Pursuit of Happyness
5. Lord of the Rings (yes, even Lord of the Rings!)

Let me know if you have any to add to the list!

Nicole

Monday Morning Mantra 09/22/08

Happy Monday, guys! This quote definitely inspires me to wake up and have a great week! Make it happen!

"The best way to predict the future is to invent it." -- Alan Kaye

Nicole :)

Why It Feels Good to Support the WNBA

A couple weeks ago, Donté and I took Nerissa to a Washington Mystics game. Nerissa has been playing basketball for the past few years, and we wanted her to see where she could take her skills if she really applies herself. Going to her practices and cheering at her games has given me such an appreciation for sports. Watching the Mystics that Friday night gave me a new found appreciation for female athletes!

I sat there realizing that the WNBA is such an accomplishment for all women. It says a lot about our resilience, our power, and our determination. It proves that we have what it takes to perform at the highest levels, just as men do. I remember a time when there was no WNBA. That night, I looked at Nerissa cheering and shouting, and I was thankful that she won't be able to remember a time when there wasn't a WNBA. Sitting behind us, there was a group of women wearing Mystics shirts and holding Mystics cups. They shouted at their favorite players and talked about the season. These were hardcore fans. I thought, I need to go to more of these games!

If you're not that into sports, don't worry, neither am I. I watch the occasional Redskins game with my husband and I like the Washington Wizards. But here's a really good reason to check out your local WNBA team - it will make you feel good. Promise!

Nicole