Summer Storm of 06

In this summer Midwest storm we were hit hard with a tornado. In a matter of an instant we were without all the things we take for granted, electric, water, food, gas, and sewer

We all pitched in and worked the cooling shelters non stop for 7 days and served meals to thousands. People showed up from states away to come give us a helping hand.

Here we are on day 4 giving out information for
food vouchers and rationing out gallons of water.

You can see the tanker truck in the background that holds the drinking water.

Tractor trailers and cranes line the streets to clear debris, we have over 167 miles of streets so you can imagine how long this took.

Even our flag survives and waves proudly.
Do you see how the sun is shining-the heat rising to

100 and no air conditoning.

My intention in sharing this horrific time is that we all STOP and take the time to give thanks for all those things we take for granted every day,
including the helping hands of those we don't know, especially those behind the scenes.

Special Delivery

Can you guess what he's delivering?

No, not cases of chocolate.....

I'll give you a hint...It's a "NEW" chapter in my life!

A publisher heard about my story and ask me
to contribute the original "Count Your Lucky Stars" story,
as a chapter in this wonderful book written by
powerful female authors, "Inspiration to Realization"
I became a published author in the fall of 2006.
WOO WHOO!

Day of Celebration

This was the last day at the libray where I worked for

9 years as Head of Youth Services.

I loved that job and always looked forward to going to work.

Then opportunity came knocking...I answered....

and that was the start of my new adventure...

becoming a full time entrepreneur and putting my whole heart and soul

into "Count Your Lucky Stars"

Great thanks to my daughter Lauren and my Ma,

for their love and support in me, embarking on the next chapter in my life.

I love you both, BIG!

Can You Hear Me NOW

Hey there, my name is Gusopolous, (they call me Gus for short)

and I have something to say.....

I am kitty...hear me ROAR!

I'm the guard cat, are ya scared now?

It's a First!

The first autograph takes place at the dinner party of the

unveiling of the new product line.

Products Galore on the Kitchen Floor!

Ahhh...in the beginning. Here is where an idea became reality and our kitchen became the inventory room, packaging, shipping and receiving.
If you look close you can even see the iron on the table that was used to
iron over 500 of the famous "Count Your Lucky Stars" pillowcases by hand!

Worlds Apart - Close at Heart!

This is Anissa from Russia, and Olayinka from Nigeria. These two women inspired me to share my message with the world. Thanks ladies, know that you started the ripple effect! We may be worlds apart but you shall always have a place in my heart. (After hearing the "Count Your Lucky Stars" story and process ,Olayinka phone her husband and son in Nigeria and they started the process that night, worlds apart)

Here's what Annisa had to say: "All words in all languages in the world won't be able to express my feelings for you. I do count my lucky stars as you taught me. Your words saved me and I'm so very thankful. You are the one who makes hopes worth sharing and dreams worth daring."

Taking a Flying Leap!

Lauren and I on one of our mother/daughter trips. This time we are in Hawaii celebrating her high school graduation, yes by doing a zip line. Yea, You go girl! (I'm so proud of her)

Border's and Me - A Great Combo

Here I am with my own end cap at Border's book store in St. Louis. I went in to ask to do a small presention in the cafe and they ending up purchasing my WHOLE product line! Woo Whoo!