Thank you to our beautiful (you’ll see just  how beautiful soon ) and generous panel of judges. One of the tougher jobs to do – to read the heart-wrenching stories of inspiration and hard challenges to pick one out of all very deserving women. We truly embrace and honor every single one of you. And know that you can always nominate yourself or another again.:)

Our winner this round is….Linda Conti! An adoptive mom later in life who went after all options and who has taken many into her heart. Linda, we celebrate you!

Her dear friend, Venea wrote:

“I would like to nominate my friend Linda. Family, friends and relationships are so important to Linda. She loves capturing relationships in portraiture. She takes pride and centers her life around her family, and still finds time to take care of others.

Linda and her husband tried for 12 years to have children, during which time Linda underwent acupuncture, herbal remedies, artificial insemination and embryo adoption, to fulfill Linda’s lifelong dream of becoming a mother. The last round of embryo adoption and implantation worked, and she was able to experience pregnancy, giving continued life to a baby created by another couple, but rendered unneeded by them after they attained their desired pregnancies. Linda’s joy was short lived as she suffered the tragic loss of the pregnancy a while later. Prior to the pregnancy Linda and her husband had opened their home to foster children and Linda was able to enjoy the responsibility of being a foster mom. Finally they were blessed with two beautiful children to adopt into their lives and home forever, now ages 5 and 8.

Linda lives for her children, most days driving them the 25 miles to school herself. While the children are in school, Linda finds time to volunteer. When not working in her children’s classroom, she is also a volunteer member of the National Assistants League of Everett, Kitty Young Auxiliary, which is for Working Women, volunteering for several philanthropic projects. Among the many projects, Linda donates time to the NW Regional Learning Center for disenfranchised teens, and one of Linda’s favorites, Operation School Bell where Linda is basically a personal shopper, helping match up needy children in Snohomish County with appropriate school clothes and basic supplies.

2 years ago when health prevented Linda’s mom from living at home anymore, Linda moved her father (now 83!) in to live with her.

Hard economic times have forced Linda and her husband to have to weigh their expenses, through no fault of their own. They had built their dream house out of sweat equity and are raising their family there. Unfortunately, just prior to the economy crashing, they put their house as collateral and built an investment home, in an effort to further secure their financial future. The colossal drop in value of both homes has caused them to risk loosing their investments and their financial future. Linda is always exploring new ways to expand her photographic abilities to offer a means to provide for her family. She is working tirelessly to build a clientele to help ensure her family’s security.

Linda could greatly benefit from a weekend of renewal. She got her first camera when she was 11 and I would love to see her advance and succeed. She is always doing for others and deserves a break for herself! In case you are wondering, I know she is available and I will gladly watch her children for her if her husband wants!

As Linda has blessed all who know her, I would love the blessings be returned!! Thank you for your consideration ”

Congratulations Linda!! I hope you’ll find both respite and inspiring joy at the workshop.  Brian and I look forward to giving you a BIG HUG this weekend!

xo,

m

p.s.  Three Spots Left for this Weekend in Seattle!

This Saturday and Sunday we have our CONFIDENCE Workshop in Seattle!  Want to start the New Year off with confidence in your photography and a creative spirit that is refreshed?! Then come join us!  Ladies only!  CLICK HERE for details!  Or you can email Genie (genie@merakoh.com) with any questions.  ALL LEVELS WELCOME!

Our first Running on Empty contest for 2012! With Florida SOLD OUT and only a few spots open for Seattle and LA/OC, this is a very special gift for a woman who’s given her all.

It’s always a privilege to be able to announce this contest for a seat in Me Ra’s CONFIDENCE Workshop. We do our best to hold one seat aside for a special mom.

Do you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Her own ‘play group’? A woman Running on Empty?  Nominate her today. Let’s start her year with a gift,  give her something to SMILE BIG about all year and lift her spirit!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the Seattle area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, January 20th 7-9pm, for the Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, January 22nd, about 7pm.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Monday night, January 9th at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Monday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty and they sometimes know it least of all.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in (almost) every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the Seattle area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

xoxo Me Ra

_________________________________________

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next week! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Monday 1/9 at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed, posted on other blog posts or FB may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here . Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Take a look at Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

May 2012 spark many moments of happiness in your heart! ~ Genie

____________________________________________

We have limited spots left in our Seattle and Orange County/LA, CA Winter workshops.  Women only (sorry guys!).  Tampa, FL is SOLD OUT!  CLICK HERE for Seattle Details and Orange Country/LA Details!

Our Dallas Confidence! Workshop is just around the corner the weekend of November 12-13. It’s Me Ra and Brian’s first time in Dallas for a workshop and everyone is completely EXCITED, including them! It brings Me Ra great joy to offer one spot to a deserving mom for this confidence building weekend.

Do you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Her own ‘play group’? A woman Running on Empty?  Nominate her today. Let’s turn life around and put a BIG SMILE on her face and lift her spirit!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the Dallas area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, November 11th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, November 13th, about 7pm.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Wednesday night, November 2nd at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Wednesday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty and they sometimes know it least of all.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in (almost) every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the Dallas area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

xoxo Me Ra

****

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next week! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Wednesday, November 2nd at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here . Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Take a look at Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

Get those nominations in and have a wonderful Halloween with the kiddos!

Genie

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Dallas, November 12-13 CLICK HERE!  Only Two spots left! Who’s coming?

Dallas Minis are SOLD OUT!

Seattle, Tampa/Clearwater and LA/Orange County are early 2012! Click here to get your Christmas present set up!

Our Washington DC Confidence! Workshop is SOLD OUT except for ONE SPOT. We set this one aside for a deserving mom and know we’ll find one who could really use a break right now.

Do you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Her own ‘play group’? A woman Running on Empty?  Nominate her today. Let’s turn life around and put a BIG SMILE on her face and lift her spirit!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the DC area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, October 7th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, October 9th, about 7pm.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Thursday night, September 15th at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Thursday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty and they sometimes know it least of all.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in (almost) every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the DC area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

xoxo Me Ra

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next week! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Thursday 9/15 at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here . Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Take a look at Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

The blog is open! Enjoy your week ~ Genie

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Our Sacramento Workshop is this coming weekend – here we come Sacramento!! We have a few spots open – have you been thinking about it? At the lovely Amber House B&B near the Capitol. CLICK HERE to sign up!

Dallas, November 12-13 CLICK HERE! Four spots left!

Seattle & DC SOLD OUT!

We’re looking for one deserving mom who would LOVE a seat in the SACRAMENTO CONFIDENCE! WORKSHOP September 24-25!

Do you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Her own ‘play group’? A woman Running on Empty?  Nominate her today. Let’s turn life around and put a BIG SMILE on her face and lift her spirit!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the Sacramento area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, September 23th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, September 25th, about 7pm.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Thursday night, August 18th at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Thursday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty and they sometimes know it least of all.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the Sacramento area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next week! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Thursday 8/18 at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here. Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Wow, the best place to send you is Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

________________________________________________________________________________

*Three Fall Workshops remain:  Seattle, Washington DC and Dallas!  They are ALMOST FULL, so click the city below for more details on how to grab your spot!!  If confidence is your goal and photography your passion, it’s an amazing pool to jump in.  You never know what may open up!

Seattle, September 10-11 SOLD OUT!

Washington DC, October 8-9  CLICK HERE! Four spots left!

Dallas, November 12-13 CLICK HERE! Five spots left!

Remember to post those nominations by this Thursday at 6pm!

Having a fun summer? Genie

Chicago -it’s your turn for ‘Running on Empty’ nominations! We’re giving away one seat in the CHICAGO CONFIDENCE! WORKSHOP coming up May 28-29th!  What an amazing Mother’s Day surprise for one lucky mom!

Who do you know who is a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Her own ‘play group’? A woman Running on Empty?  Nominate her today. Let’s turn life around and put a BIG SMILE on her face and lift her spirit!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the Chicago area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, May 27th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, May 29th.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Sunday night, 5/1 at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Sunday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the Chicago area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next week! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Sunday, 5/1 at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here. Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Wow, the best place to send you is Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

________________________________________________________________________________

*TWO SPRING Workshops remain:  Seattle and Chicago!  They are ALMOST FULL, so click the city below for more details on how to grab your spot!!  If confidence is your goal and photography your passion, it’s an amazing pool to jump in.  You never know what may open up!

Seattle, May 14-15 CLICK HERE! Two spots left!

Chicago, May 28-29 CLICK HERE! Two spots left!

Remember to post those nominations by this Sunday at 6pm!

And I’m not monkeying around like some people we know in Thailand! Genie

P.S. Our Running on Empty winner for Seattle will be announced tomorrow!

It’s Seattle’s turn for a ‘Running on Empty’ mom! A cherished seat in the Seattle workshop coming up May 14-15th! Only a three seats remain and one deserving woman will get one of them.

Genie here, chiming in to ask if you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Do you know a mom Running on Empty?  If so, nominate her today. Let’s turn her day around and let her know we are rooting for her!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near the Seattle/Tacoma area or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, May 13th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet through Sunday evening, May 15th.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Friday night, 4/22 at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Friday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read Me Ra’s description below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty.

“Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE! Workshop in the Seattle area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!”

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next two weeks! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around!  Oh, wait!  Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Friday, April 22nd at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post.  Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here. Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first, then cut and paste over – just in case.:))

What do past attendees say about the CONFIDENCE Workshops?  Wow, the best place to send you is Me Ra’s birthday post where over 100 women shared what a difference this workshop has made in their life.  CLICK HERE to read their comments!

________________________________________________________________________________

*TWO SPRING Workshops remain:  Seattle and Chicago!  They are ALMOST FULL, so click the city below for more details on how to grab your spot!!  If confidence is your goal and photography your passion, it’s an amazing pool to jump in.  You never know what may open up!

Seattle, May 14-15 CLICK HERE! Two spots left!

Chicago, May 28-29 CLICK HERE! Two spots left!

Remember to post those nominations by this Friday at 6pm!

Happy Wednesday! Genie

Our New York Confidence! Workshop is coming up April 16-17 in Jersey City, NJ. And we have our Running on Empty Winner!

It’s Genie for Me Ra, who’s cooking up more fun for all of us!  Her new book, Your Baby in Pictures, is SOARING SWIFTLY UP THE BESTSELLER LIST!  And did you get to play in the ‘Ask and Learn’ on the SOARORITY Forum last night with Christine Barker? Wasn’t that FUN and so HELPFUL! You can still access all her tips and resources by clicking HERE – and also last month’s with Sara France!

As you know Me Ra and Brian try to include one deserving woman–a mom Running on Empty–per workshop. Then a hard working panel of past winners read the nominations and cast votes. It’s an honor, privilege and no cake walk to do. Heart-wrenching so many times. And each one of them so deserving. Me Ra and Brian honor each one of you – whether others nominated you or you nominated yourself. Your strength, love and passion are beautiful to witness, especially through times of hardship. Thank you again for sharing your stories and those of loved ones.

Our winner for the New York Confidence Workshop is …Laura Hanis!  Here is the story of her journey from her nomination:

“I would like to nominate myself for this workshop. This is not the first time I have nominated myself for one of Me Ra and Brian’s Confidence workshops. How do I even articulate why I feel like I, me of all people, deserve this opportunity. Confidence is something I have always struggled with. Not just in photography, but in life. The word itself makes me want to cringe. As a child, I was sexually abused by a family member for many years. The ramifications of how that has touched my life is something I can’t put into words. I believe it’s why I struggle so much with confidence. In so many areas of my life, I have been unbelievably blessed. I am originally from Olympia, WA and found God in my sorrow as a high school senior. It’s amazing what God can do in a person’s life. I found peace in my incest and began ministering to high school students in a youth program. Through that program, I met my husband and moved to Ohio to start a new life with him. I never realized how much I would miss my family. I think because of the abuse, I didn’t think I would. It never occurred to me how much of a rock my mom has been in my life until I left her and moved 2500 miles away. When my husband and I had our son, I didn’t want my mom to miss anything. So, I took out my little point and shoot to capture every single moment of my son’s life. Little did I know that photography would turn into my passion. In December, I applied for the SOAR scholarship and feel so energized and excited about being a part of the community. In my previous confidence nomination for the last Seattle workshop, I spoke about how badly I desire to be able to stay at home full time with my son; that raising him means more to me than I ever dreamed possible. It would be such an amazing gift to be able to have my passion for photography be my career. I feel so lacking though; that my work is not good enough to share with others. How can I confidently pose people, when I feel such a lack of confidence myself? I guess that being a part of this community is showing me that these workshops are so much more than just having confidence in photography and that excites me. It gives me hope. It would be an amazing gift since it’s also on my birthday weekend . I know every woman nominated for this is so deserving and have faith that whomever is chosen is the absolute right person to go. Thank you for reading and good luck in choosing!”

Maybe your birthday did the trick But I doubt it. You deserve this. Congratulations Laura! We’re all rooting for you to find Confidence and skill to fuel your passion beyond belief! Email me, genie@merakoh.com, to let me know if you’re coming, okay? Please do so by Sunday night at 9pm PT. (I know you sent your address to me, but we ask that you email me first). If it doesn’t work for you, we have beautiful Runner Ups.

Will you help me congratulate Laura!

_______________________________________________________________________________________

*Me Ra is EXTENDING the Early Bird Price of $799 (instead of the normal $999) until Thursday, March 24th at midnight PST!!  Make sure you get on this deal to save some dollars!

Our THREE SPRING Workshops are New York, Seattle and Chicago!  They are already more than half full, so click the city below for more details on how to grab your spot!!  If confidence is your goal and photography your passion, it’s an amazing pool to jump in.  You never know what may open up!

New York, CLICK HERE! (over half full!)

Seattle, CLICK HERE!  (4 Spots Left!)

Chicago, CLICK HERE! (5 Spots Left!)

Major hugs to all!

Genie

It’s wonderful to have Me Ra back with her amazing words of inspiration. Having had the privilege of attending a CONFIDENCE Workshop last year (yep, last year ladies!) Me Ra and Brian truly create confidence and feed passion with that same inspiration. And with every moment filled with hilarity, fun and humanity. I hope you all get to come at some point.

It’s Genie again – here to announce our next Running on Empty contest. This time it’s for Seattle!

Do you know a mom who needs this kind of group and weekend getaway? Do you know a mom Running on Empty? If so, nominate her today. Let’s turn her day around and let her know we are rooting for her!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near Seattle, WA or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, January 28th 7-9pm, for Meet & Greet night all the way through Sunday night, January 30th.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Sunday night, 1/9 at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Sunday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, even when they are Running on Empty.

Here’s how it works!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the Seattle area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that some of our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner in the next two weeks! Being as wonderful as they are, it’s not an easy job. As one said recently, “After reading each story I’d say, ‘I’m voting for HER’.”  Each one of you is so deserving.

Nominate her today and turn her day around! Oh, wait! Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Sunday, January 9 at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post. Either your email or the nominees email MUST be included on the blog post to qualify. Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here. Thanks! (A tip: write in Word or other program first – just in case.:))

For more details about the CONFIDENCE WORKSHOP, CLICK HERE! The only way into the the Seattle Workshop is through this contest as it’s SOLD OUT, so nominate now!

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*All 2011 CONFIDENCE Workshops are SOLD OUT, BUT if you’d like to be on our waiting list, email me at genie@merakoh.com. If confidence is your goal and photography your passion, it’s an amazing pool to jump in.  You never know what may open up!

Seattle Details, SOLD OUT!

LA/Orange County Details, SOLD OUT!

Scottsdale, AZ Details, SOLD OUT!

Send those nominations in by Sunday 6pm!

~ Genie

Me Ra is taking time off as you all know, and we have one important piece of business to take care of as the year ends. We have a Running on Empty spot to fill for our upcoming LA-Orange County Confidence Workshop! This workshop has only one other seat left! So only two more women will be in the first Confidence Workshop of 2011.  The weekend is January 15-16, 2011! Yep, the NEW YEAR is here!!

It’s Genie (Me Ra’s ‘little genie’ as she likes to call me )  The ladies have started emailing, saying why they are coming, what they hope to get out of the weekend, sharing their fears, insecurities and enthusiasm. Wonderful group!  I know Me Ra and Brian can’t wait to meet them all! One lucky woman is yet to join the gang!  She is our future Running On Empty winner.  If you fit the profile below, APPLY TODAY!  The deadline is this Thursday, December 30th at 6pm, PST!

If you know a MOM who is;

A. Running on Empty

B. Lives near Orange County or has mileage to spend

C. Can arrange for a sitter and get the weekend free, starting Friday, January 14th for Meet & Greet night all the way through Sunday night, January 16th.

D. Most importantly, has a PASSION for photography

Nominate her TODAY! Nominations must be in by Thursday night, 12/30 at 6pm PST.

We will announce the winner in time for her to jump in and make all the arrangements. So make sure your nominations are all in by Thursday at 6pm PST. If you are not familiar with this contest, read below and see what it’s all about! Moms are one of the most beautiful parts of creation. This contest is all about acknowledging their beauty, especially when they are Running on Empty.

Here’s how it works – from Me Ra!

In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I keep one spot reserved in every workshop for a special mom like YOU! That’s right, you (or she) will get a free pass to the upcoming CONFIDENCE Workshop in the LA-Orange County area! (Please note, we don’t provide room/board and travel.)

To nominate a mom, you must post a comment telling us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If you are a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break. But the moms we’re looking for are the ones who have had a ridiculous amount of stress in their life whether from trauma or things just not going her way this year. She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a serious surprise that gives her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. Don’t hesitate to nominate her too.

I’m proud to say that our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves. Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah!

We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee of wonderful moms vote, and then announce the winner within days of Thursday’s deadline!

Nominate her today and turn her day around! Oh, wait! Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too! If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not! Deadline for ALL nominations is Thursday, December 30th at 6pm PST. Nominations MUST be posted as a comment on this blog post. Either your email or the nominees email MUST be included on the blog post to qualify (you have to write it in). Nominations emailed or posted on other blog posts may be overlooked. Please post all nominees here. Thanks!

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*All 2010 CONFIDENCE Workshops were SOLD OUT!  Having attended the San Francisco Workshop I can you can’t help but gain confidence and have a BLAST! Why not make CONFIDENCE your goal for 2011!  Join us for any of the upcoming workshops!! Do you have some Christmas money to spend?

Seattle Details, SOLD OUT!

LA/Orange County Details, CLICK HERE! ONLY ONE SPOT LEFT! Who’s going to snap it up?

Scottsdale, AZ Details, CLICK HERE! TWO SPOTS LEFT!

Send those nominations in! And, Happy New Year!

~ Genie