I have loved publishing our Hometown Magazines for 42 years and counting! It is a great gift to love what we do. For me, it is a mixture of enjoying writing, meeting other entrepreneurs, and helping them prosper by telling readers their offerings and their stories!

This is a wonderful city among the many in Hampton Roads, where people are friendly and helpful, as well as proud to live here. What a difference it makes.

What would we do when we get bogged down in sad news if our neighbors were not friendly and happy to live here? I live in a neighborhood of 30 homes, and we have perhaps one family move in a year or two. Or none! But most have been here 20 years since it was built. Recently, I counted the number of neighbors we actually know and was proud to realize there are at least a dozen now.

I have always wanted my business to be for others what I wanted it to be for myself. A workplace where a sick child comes before a work task. A workplace where we feel at home but can leave when we need to and take a vacation. Life needs to blend in with what is important to each of us.

After 42 years in one business, I count my blessings. Those blessings have names. The longest someone worked with me was 33 plus years. A group of several worked here for 23 years! And another group 17 years. There are several that are close to 10 years now. The formula is that co-workers become family-truly!


Two employees, after 23 years with us, retired, and we keep in touch. It is the family element I mentioned. We don't forget family members.

As I think about the younger workers who become like my kids, I am so grateful to have had them-and still have them-in my life. There is no reason the workplace cannot emulate our home life. Working with friends and young people we call our own is such a joy.

I tell you this as I am thinking of expanding our workforce. I know we need someone who lives in Suffolk or Western Branch or Harbour View! If you are a people person, consider giving us whatever hours you can spare. You won't be sorry.  
    

So, what do we do? We find a way to help entrepreneurs by introducing them to their neighbors. One of our earliest slogans continues to express our outlook: "Neighbors Like to Do Business with Neighbors!"


When we get to do what we love to do, life is good. Work is a privilege when enjoyed. Most people think sports figures love what they do. Why should it be different for anyone else? If we know what we love to do, why not do it to support ourselves?  

If you love to think of ways to help small businesses, give us a call to see if you would be fulfilled working with us, whether full or part time. Call our Shopper Number - 757-547-0520.