Virtual Call Centers are in the News

When people hear that a person actually works from home, processing calls for large companies, they usually get strange looks. But it might not be a surprise to those who work in the industry, that it's expected to grow by more than 20% in the upcoming years. That's good news for people looking to work from home as Virtual Customer Service Rep.

Read the news story 'Call Centers Find New Home' in the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

Rona's February Book List

Here's the books that I'm currently reading. I spend one night reading each book. It's a great way to wind down and relax.

'That Blackhawk Bride' by Barbara McCauley

'Please Do Feed The Cat' by Marian Babson

'Better Sentence Writing in 30 Minutes A Day' by Dianna Campbell

Schedule Time Together as a Couple

You know it doesn't matter if you're a SAH, WAH or working outside of the home, families are very busy these days. For example, my husband works two jobs, I work at home, homeschool and am the Home CEO. Our teenage son keeps us busy with his volunteer work, sports, schooling and his friends. We also have our own interests and friends. It doesn't leave much time for us.

My husband and I actually schedule most of our time together. Whether it's meeting for lunch, taking a walk at the beach or just jumping in the shower together, it feels great! We enjoy surprising each other too. Once, my husband greeted me with tickets to a morning harbor cruise and lunch. I love surprising him with his favorite lunch, at work. Our relationship is important to us. Don't forget that your children will see this too.

For some ideas, take a look at Bob and Sheri Sritof, Marriage About.com Guides,
'How to Have Quality Time'. Start with one of their suggestions or come up with your own. Then set some time aside and enjoy.

February Drawing - Country Bunny Bath & Body Lotion Bar

Beginning this month, February, when you leave a comment here or Marcus and Me blog, you will be entered in my monthly drawing for some Country Bunny Bath & Body products. This month, I'm giving away a Pearberry Lotion Bar. I'll also be picking up your shipping.

Stop by my online store to browse or place an order.

Homeschooler's Writing Club - Local History Essay

Beverly Hernandez, Homeschooling About.com guide, has a new field assignment for the Homeschooler's Writing Club. Take a picture of a state symbol and write an essay. This project is open to K through 12th grade. Visit Beverly's site for more information, guidelines and to sign up your student. You'll also find writing resources and tips.

Deadline is March 30, 2006.

CWAHM Talk Radio Show - Happy Valentine's Day Contest

Visit CWAHM website to enter the Valentine's Day drawing. Jill Hart, talk show host, is giving away a mini vacation, one on one business coaching, beauty items and more.

You can enter from February 14 to 17 midnight. Please let Jill know that
Rona Berry-Morin referred you. Good luck and Happy Valentine's Day.

My Must Have Desk Equipment

Of course, you need pen and paper for jotting down info but don't forget your stress balls. Yes, these are a 'Must Have' for Customer Service Reps. When I worked for Geico Insurance, we were given one each year. The balls never made it through out the year. All the squeezing, poking and choking limited their life span.

When you're dealing with objections, rebuttal, angry customers, and trying to maintain the enthusiasm while repeating a statement for the thousandth time, the stress ball is your best friend.

Pancake Day - Visit 'Marcus and Me' at Homeschooblogger.com

One of today's special days is Pancake Day. This is one of my favorite breakfast foods. Let's face it, even iHop has figured that one out. On February 28, participating iHop restaurants will be giving away 1 short stack per person, betwene 7 am to 2 pm, in honor of National Pancake Day.

Also, stop by 'Marcus and Me', at Homeschoolblogger.com, and read my post about Pancake Day. Don't forget the butter and maple syrup!

Rona's Recipe Pick for February - Shepard's Pie

While growing up in Maine, I was first introduced to shepard's pie as a school lunch entree. It combines so many of my favorites into a warm and filling cassorole. Ground beef, corn, topped with mashed potatoes and cheese. My mom used to make it for our family because it was an economical way to feed a large family.

When you search for the recipe you'll find that there are many different versions of the recipe. Recently I decided to add mushroom and brown gravy.

Stay-At-Home About.com site offers several versions of the recipe. I'm sure there's one that you and your family are just going to love.