In its simplest form, communication is the act of transferring information from one person or group to another. Whether personally or professionally, through talk or text, we typically spend much of our day communicating with other people.

It sounds simple, right? As someone whose job in account services relies heavily on communication with both team members and clients, I can assure you this isn’t always the case. Remember playing the telephone game as a kid? I do, and I can assure you the message that started the circle wasn’t always the message that ended the circle. Confusion ensued!

Improving Your Communication Skills

Undoubtedly our communication skills have improved since our days playing the telephone game, but we all still fall short in communicating effectively at times. So, how do we get better? Let’s first take a look at a few of the main ways we communicate.

1. Verbal Communication
   Whether we communicate through face-to-face meetings, a phone call or video chat, all of these are categorized as verbal communication. Using our voice to deliver the message to our audience.
   
2. Nonverbal Communication
   Nonverbal communication accompanies verbal communication. When we speak, we give off different signals without using spoken words, and sometimes without even realizing we are doing it. This can include facial expressions, posture, eye contact, tone of voice, gestures, how we dress, etc.
   
3. Written Communication
   There are many ways we can deliver our message through the written word. And, often this is considered the most common and effective way to communicate. It can be through emails, letters, social media, articles, text messages, etc.
   
4. Visual Communication
   When we communicate visually it is done through a means that can be read or viewed by the recipient and has become more prevalent because of social media platforms. Such as infographics, graphs, videos, slides, etc.

Barriers to Being Effective

There are many barriers that can impede effective communication. Let’s explore a few of them.

• Inattentive
  In other words, we simply aren’t paying attention. This can lead to missing important details and misunderstanding or misinterpreting what we do hear.
  
  
• Mismatched Communications Styles
  Does how you prefer to communicate differ from that of the intended recipient? If so, there’s most likely a greater chance of miscommunications.
  
  
• Poor Timing
  No matter how well thought out and prepared your communication might be, your message will fall short if it isn’t delivered at an appropriate time.
  
  
• Too Much Jargon
  Although at times jargon can make your communication more efficient, often, your intended audience will not understand it and will be left in a state of confusion.

Troubleshooting Your Communication Gaps

Now that we have outlined both some of the common forms of communication and barriers to communication, let’s talk about how we can overcome them.

• Active Listening
  If you find yourself struggling to absorb the communication, you might want to read up on active listening. It involves digesting the information, and then responding back through paraphrasing, asking questions and body language cues.
  
  
• Identify Communication Styles
  You need to understand not only if your audience prefers to communicate face-to-face vs. emails, etc., but also if they prefer straightforward and to the point messages vs. being inundated with all the details. The answer may vary based on what is being discussed and you need to adjust your communication style accordingly.
  
  
•  Think Before You Communicate
  Timing is everything when it comes to communicating to your audience. Are you sending your message right before a big event, a planned vacation or late at night? Always make sure you take these things into consideration if you want to be heard.
  
  
• Use Plain and Simple Language
  Shorthand and acronyms can save you time, but often it leads to your recipient feeling frustrated and confused because the language isn’t understood by all. Make sure you tailor your message to your audience, and only use jargon if you know it will be understood by all.

Regardless of how you communicate to your audience, there are going to be instances when it is ineffective. But, if you keep in mind some simple obstacles to avoid, you’ll find these instances will be few and far between.

As I was pondering what to share in this month’s newsletter, an email about books hit my inbox. It was my daily New York Times digest. And, one of the stories featured was the 100 Best Books of the 21st Century. To be honest, I only scrolled through the first 50. And, gosh, I haven’t read any of them. But, of course, now I am excited to have a new “to read” list.

How to Vacation: Read Books

On our annual July Fourth vacation to Gulf Shores, Alabama, not only do I cherish time with my kiddos, and the family tradition we have built. I enjoy reading, as I don’t have the opportunity to do it enough during the work week. On this vacation, I have a goal of reading a book a day. I know that sounds impossible, right? But I am a speedy reader when I’m engaged in a good book.

Reading to me is relaxation. It is an escape. Also, reading fills my head with new perspectives and ideas — even if I am reading romance or mystery novels. I do try to sharpen my parenting skills and throw in a parenting book now and then as well. In addition, adding business or professional development books to my library is important to me.

Books I’ve Been Reading This Summer

This year’s Fourth of July consumption, “dearest gentle reader,” did not disappoint. Highlights included:

James Patterson by James Patterson — My first audio book ever. Yes, stating this makes me feel like a dinosaur. I had no idea Patterson worked at J Walter Thompson. And was an executive there. He also produced some of the most iconic tag lines and creative concepts of all time! From this, I took away much. In addition to this one, I am adding two other books to my reading list: One by him and a book he gifts to others.

Five Principles of Parenting by Dr. Aliza Pressman — I have a 23-year-old son. Yet, parenting today and all the wise people and new learnings out there are still a benefit to me when I’m parenting my 11-year-old daughter. This book is a true treasure trove of wisdom.

Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson — Wowsa. There were many unexpected turns and twists. Also, mind blown regarding new learnings on the science of volcanoes and other things. A must read y’all.

This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune — This is one of the top easy-to-read and escape-into books of the summer.

Need More Insights on These Books?

Want to share why you read and what your favorites are? I’m happy to have a call or Teams chat. Or leave a comment here. Summer reading and time away from work are so important for the soul, don’t you think?

Of course, if we can help you with your marketing and branding needs, book discussion or not, email, call or text us.

We are welcoming intern Michael Panikkacherry, our newest rocker from Texas Tech, to the team this summer. We wanted to get to know him better, so we asked him a few questions! He’s an advertising student and eager to learn more about this industry this summer at Front Porch Marketing. Give him a big howdy!

What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?

The biggest misconception about marketing today is that it’s primarily about advertising and selling products, when in fact, effective marketing is more about building relationships and  understanding customer needs. 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would advise myself to embrace failure as a teaching opportunity and to concentrate on developing resilience and flexibility since these traits will help you navigate the ups and downs of life.

What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?

A good routine is key to success, especially in college when you’re living on your own. 

What does good brand strategy look like?

A good brand strategy clearly defines the brand’s purpose and values while also building a strong emotional connection to the target audience. 

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

I would like to go to Iceland because I feel like it is a very unique travel destination and the land and scenery is beautiful. 

If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead, who would it be?

I would want to go to dinner with Michael Jackson because I have always loved his music since I could remember and he was such an icon for me. 

If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?

Sociable, dedicated, adaptable

Tell me about a major milestone in your life?

A major milestone in my life would have to be when I was elected leader for our community service project. I realized then that I was seen as a reliable person to the group that can help us get things done in a timely manner. 

From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?

Front Porch Marketing differentiates itself from other marketing companies because of its close knit team. 

What is a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I love to travel outside of the country. 

This summer, we welcome Natalie Johnson, our newest intern rocker, to the team. So we asked her a few questions to get to know her better! She’s a student at The University of Arkansas studying advertising and public relations. Natalie is excited to learn more about marketing, strategic writing, and client relations on the Porch.

What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?

That good marketing has to achieve widespread attention to be effective. It is so much more important that a campaign reaches its target audience, no matter its size, and is able to impact those who can directly benefit from what is being offered.

What advice would Natalie Johnson give to her younger self?

Everything happens for a reason! Even if you are confused in the moment, life always brings you exactly what you need.

What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?

College has taught me the importance of scheduling. Finding a healthy balance between schoolwork and social life is key to getting a good education while making memories.

What does good brand strategy look like?

A good brand strategy starts with building a strong brand identity. Once you know what you value as a brand and establish why consumers can trust you, content production can feel much more cohesive and authentic.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?

The Amalfi Coast! I visited when I was younger and would love to go back.

If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?

My grandpa on my mom’s side of the family. He passed away right around my high school graduation, so I would love to tell him about where I am now and hear some more of his awesome life advice!

If you could describe Natalie Johnson in three words what would they be?

I would describe myself as dedicated, empathetic, and optimistic.

Tell us about a major milestone in your life?

One of my major milestones is transferring schools and going to college out of Texas! It has been my first time living in a new state, and I’m so grateful for the experiences I’ve had in Arkansas so far!

From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?

Front Porch builds such personable, caring relationships both internally and externally. Everyone in the company truly cares about the well-being of its clients and its team members, celebrating every success and always available to answer questions.

What is a fun fact about you?

I played volleyball for 11 years!

On the Porch, May is “grad …” month. Believe it or not, it’s not just graduates and graduating. “Grad” definitely has to do with branding and marketing. Overall, it’s about great celebrations for our Porch team, family and clients.

Grad Is For Graduation Graduates

We have two kiddos graduating from kindergarten. Rock on, twins! And one team mate has an accomplished high school graduate going on to do great things in business school and in golf. Our intern, Lillian, is planning to be an August MBA grad. Plus, I have a college graduate — go on with your bad self, son. I couldn’t be prouder.

Grades Start With Grad

All those with school age children feel me here. That final grade card is coming to a mailbox near you. We see how hard you worked! And, oh yeah, the standardized test results. How’d we all do on those AP tests and finals? Whew! What a feeling! (It’s over. At least for now.)

Gradual Branding and Marketing Changes

It’s rad to be grad! Gradual, that is. Taking a measured approach on marketing pays off. Our clients are embracing incremental changes in strategy and tactics this year. This deliberate and consistent path to progress allows our clients’ brands and teams to experience sustainable enhancement. It is a more stable approach to marketing resulting in visible, continuous improvement. Slow and steady wins the race I always say.

Grad … okay … GraTitude, But It Works!

We are so grateful for our team, clients and advocates, here at the Porch. Amidst all the grad chaos that May brings, we are celebrating those who value that we continue to do what we love, with those we love, for those we love, while taking care of our loves. May was something else and we enjoyed every chaotic moment of it. Congrats Grads!

Brand Guidelines help keep your brand on track. I think we can all agree that your brand is your most important asset. Some people may think your logo is the sum of your brand identity, but it’s more than that. It’s the personality of your brand. You’ve spent countless hours, not to mention your blood, sweat and tears making your brand come to life. And you want to protect your brand identity through consistent marketing and messaging across all your channels. To do this, you need to develop brand guidelines.

What Are Brand Guidelines?

By definition, brand guidelines are clearly defined rules and standards that communicate how your brand should be represented to the world. We typically think these rules are utilized by designers, but they should be adhered to by anyone who interacts with your brand whether inside or outside of your organization.

The components included in brand guidelines vary from company to company, and they can range in size from a few to many pages. Typically, at a minimum, brand guidelines will include logo usage guidelines, color palettes, typography and brand voice.

Why Are Guidelines Important?

It can be tricky to keep your brand identity consistent. As your brand grows, you may also grow your team and start to use external resources. When you have clear and consistent guidelines in place, you protect how your brand is portrayed both visually and in writing no matter who is developing the communications and no matter if the audience is internal or external.  

• Ensure Consistency — From your website to your social media posts and print materials, your communications should be cohesive. Part of a family.  It makes your brand reliable and shows you take pride in your brand.
   
• Create Recognition — Your audience should be able to easily recognize your brand. They help you stand out in a competitive market.
  
• Set Standards and Rules — These rules make certain everyone is using the brand visual elements correctly. This can range from logo placement to color palettes and fonts. These are not meant to stifle creativity, but rather safeguard that everything appears correctly.
  
• Build Value — They create compliance inside and outside of your organization. When guidelines are adhered to, it creates and maintains a strong brand presence in the market.

When you have brand guidelines in place, you have the foundation to create a consistent and successful brand identity now and in the future.

In the dynamic world of business-to-business interactions, forging strong B2B partnerships is essential for long-term success and growth. These strategic alliances not only expand market reach but also foster innovation and mutual support. However, building strong B2B partnerships requires careful planning, effective communication, and a commitment to shared goals. Here are some key strategies that businesses can implement to cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships in the B2B landscape.

Establish Clear Objectives and Alignment in B2B Partnerships

At the core of any successful partnership lies a shared understanding of objectives and alignment of goals. Before embarking on a collaboration, take the time to define what success looks like for both parties. Clarify mutual expectations, identify common challenges, and outline how each partner can contribute to achieving shared objectives. For example, a technology company seeking to enhance its cybersecurity offerings may form a strategic alliance with a cybersecurity firm to jointly develop integrated solutions that address both data analysis and security concerns.

Foster Open and Transparent Communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and B2B partnerships are no exception. Cultivate an environment of open dialogue and transparency, where both parties feel comfortable expressing their needs, concerns, and ideas. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions help ensure that everyone remains on the same page throughout the partnership journey. For instance, a manufacturing company building strong relationships with suppliers ensures a steady supply of raw materials or components, fostering reliability and efficiency in the production process.

Prioritize Mutual Benefit and Value Creation for B2B Partnerships

Successful B2B partnerships are ones where both parties derive tangible value from the collaboration. Focus on identifying areas of mutual benefit and value creation, where each partner can leverage their strengths to achieve shared goals. Whether it’s access to new markets, innovative technologies, or complementary expertise, seek opportunities to create win-win scenarios that drive mutual growth and success. For example, a software company may partner with a network of resellers to distribute its products to different geographic regions or industries, expanding its market reach while providing the resellers with a lucrative revenue stream.

Invest in Relationship-Building and Trust

Building strong partnerships takes time and effort, and investing in relationship-building is essential for long-term success. Take the time to get to know your partner’s business, culture, and values, and foster personal connections with key stakeholders. Building trust is paramount, so be reliable, transparent, and honest in your interactions. Demonstrate a commitment to the partnership by following through on promises, addressing concerns promptly, and actively seeking ways to add value to your partner’s business. For instance, marketing and co-marketing partnerships allow businesses to collaborate on initiatives that amplify both parties’ reach and visibility, such as co-creating content or launching co-branded campaigns.

Embrace Collaboration and Adaptability in Your B2B Partnerships

Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for successful B2B partnerships. Embrace a spirit of collaboration and be open to exploring new ideas, strategies, and opportunities together. Remain agile in responding to changing market dynamics, evolving customer needs, and emerging industry trends. By fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, you position your partnership for long-term relevance and resilience in the face of uncertainty. For example, companies often form partnerships to enhance their product offerings or expand into new markets, leveraging each other’s expertise to develop innovative solutions that address evolving customer demands.

Leverage Expertise Through Strategic Partnerships

Leveraging expertise through strategic partnerships can provide B2B companies with specialized skills and knowledge to enhance their offerings and market presence. Collaborating with a marketing firm, for example, can offer significant benefits for businesses looking to elevate their brand visibility, generate leads, and drive revenue growth. A B2B partnership with a marketing firm can provide access to a range of marketing services, including strategic planning, digital marketing, content creation, and campaign management. By tapping into the expertise of marketing professionals, B2B companies can develop tailored marketing strategies and tactics that resonate with their target audience and align with their business objectives.

For instance, a professional services company seeking to expand its market reach may partner with a marketing firm specializing in B2B lead generation and digital marketing. Through this partnership, the services company gains access to a team of marketing experts who can develop targeted campaigns, optimize online presence including SEO, and leverage data analytics to identify and nurture leads effectively. By outsourcing marketing efforts to a trusted partner, the services company can focus on core business operations while benefiting from the marketing firm’s industry knowledge, resources, and experience.

Cultivating Strong B2B Partnerships is a Win-Win

In the interconnected world of B2B commerce, building strong B2B partnerships is not just advantageous — it’s imperative for sustainable growth and competitiveness. By following these strategies and incorporating examples of specific partnership types, including collaborations with marketing firms, businesses can cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships that drive mutual success. As you navigate the intricacies of B2B relationships, remember that the strength of your partnerships lies in your ability to collaborate, communicate, and innovate together.

Networking is perhaps an undervalued, but critically important aspect of marketing. In the world of marketing, staying ahead of trends, understanding emerging technologies, and leveraging innovative strategies are immensely important. However, amidst the whirlwind of digital campaigns, content creation, and market analysis, one fundamental aspect remains critically vital: networking. This week, as some of our team is attending the Marketing 2.0 Conference, let’s delve into the significance of networking within our industry, particularly through conferences and conventions. 

Networking is a Gateway to Opportunities 

Networking serves as a gateway to a multitude of opportunities; including partnerships, client leads, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas. More often than not, who you know can be as important as what you know. Creating meaningful connections can catapult your career and business to new heights. 

The Value of Face-to-Face Interactions 

While social media and digital platforms offer convenient ways to connect, they cannot always replicate the value of face-to-face interactions. Conferences and conventions provide a unique environment for marketers to engage in real-time conversations, offering a depth of communication that virtual encounters cannot match. The exchange of ideas, the use of body language and the immediate feedback of in-person discussions enrich the networking experience and can foster stronger, more meaningful connections. 

Networking Means Learning from the Best 

Attending conferences and conventions exposes you to impressive leaders and innovators in the marketing world. Keynote speeches, classes, and panel discussions provide exceptional insights and knowledge, highlighting cutting-edge trends that have yet to become mainstream. These learning opportunities not only inspire but also equip you with fresh ideas and approaches that can be applied to your own business. 

A Platform for Visibility 

Participating in these events offers an invaluable platform to raise your personal or brand’s visibility within the industry. Presenting a paper, leading a workshop, or simply engaging in discussions can position you as a thought leader. In turn this can open doors to media coverage, speaking opportunities, and collaborations. The exposure gained can significantly enhance your reputation and credibility among peers and potential clients. 

The Ripple Effect of Sharing 

One of the most underrated aspects of networking at conferences is the ripple effect it creates. Sharing your own experiences, challenges, and success stories not only contributes to the collective knowledge but also helps in creating meaningful connections. This mutual exchange fosters a sense of community and support within the industry. 

Looking Ahead 

As our team prepares to immerse ourselves in the upcoming Marketing 2.0 Conference, the focus extends beyond just attending. It’s about actively participating, engaging with new faces, and absorbing every bit of knowledge and insight available. The importance of networking in marketing cannot be overstated, and conferences and conventions represent a place for nurturing connections that could shape the future of your business. 

This is anniversary number 13 and it is sweet and humbling. And I am forever grateful for our team, clients and advocates.

13 is a lucky number.

It represents fearlessness. And, although at times fearlessness is hard amidst all that is going on with our business, clients, family, and in the world, for our business and me it is a guidepost.

Today I’m sharing 13 branding and marketing truths that still ring true, to celebrate our 13^th year of doing what we love.

1. Branding – Start-ups and small to midsize businesses who have defined and live their brand architecture achieve their business goals.
2. Conviction – Successful businesses and business leaders articulate their brand. They know it stands for a specific and meaningful promise. These business leaders champion it internally as well.
3. Consistency – Our clients deliver on their brand at every point of contact, internally and externally. They understand if they don’t it will dilute the competency of the organization.
4. Connection – The relevancy and persuasiveness of a brand must be realized by the business’ target. Emotional connections make target audiences more predisposed to your company and its products or services.
5. Knowing you are not your customer.
6. Yet, knowing who your key client or customer targets are key.
7. Defining and monitoring the competitive landscape.
8. Creating and integrating key messages into all communications.
9. Being grateful for your relationships. Give back to those who support you. Encouraging them and providing help to them professionally or their businesses along the way.
10. Networking – This doesn’t have to be large groups, weekly or monthly meetings. But those help. Always be open to meeting new people and trying to help or connect with them.
11. Email marketing is the bomb. Don’t underestimate its power.
12. Having and trusting strong account managers, creative directors and content specialists. They make magic happen.
13. Work with people who you love, for those you love, creating and executing work you love, whilst taking care of your loves.

It’s our time on the Porch for reflecting on 2023

Ah, reflecting on 2023. It always amazes me this team finds commonality in their reflections each year despite not seeing each other’s until this blog is published. This year is no exception.

2022 was all about rocking steady in the calm of a year which allowed us to catch our breath a bit following several years of big events, big changes and big milestones both individually and in the world.

Boy, are we grateful for that quiet(ish) 2022. 2023 was a year full of learning to embrace change, accept challenges, give ourselves (and others) grace, honor the lessons we learn in difficulty and to find light in the darkness. Reflecting on 2023 brought some tears, some smiles and big hugs all around.

Julie Porter – Chief Rocker

Reminiscing on a year of learning, leadership and service, I am reminded of the old saying, “you don’t know what you don’t know.”

On the Porch, we operated with the same great gang of seasoned professionals and added six interns throughout the year. Interns always make us better.

My daughter and I continue to find joy in volunteering together at Dallas Animal Services (DAS). I was honored to continue my Volunteer Chair gig for the 30^th Annual JWA Christmas Bazaar, board work with Faith Family Education Foundation, and host committee duties for the Grant Halliburton Foundation. There is no better challenge to accept than being able to serve others.

Proud of my boy who finished his undergrad degree in December and started his master’s program this month. He had quite a year and met it head on.

Reflecting on 2023 and looking forward for this year, I will continue to lean into difficulty. I’ll take calculated risks, focus on my own well-being and understand that growth can’t happen without resistance. All the while, celebrating working with this rockin’ team and our amazing clients.

Lillian Cloud – Intern

In 2023, I’ve experienced significant change. I completed my undergraduate education, relocated to a different city, started graduate school, and began a new job. This year has instilled in me the importance of embracing change and finding solace in the unknown. I’ve learned not to compare my post-graduation journey with that of others.

My internship has reinforced the need to trust myself and my decisions. The team I have the privilege to work with has been exceptionally supportive, and I relish the opportunity to learn from each of them. I often wonder, “Why should I be trusted with this responsibility?” or “how could my work be good enough?” This experience has shown me I’ve earned these chances to believe in myself, and has taught me to take pride in my work.

Christine Finnegan – Media Rocker

This past year, I aspired to live a more purposeful life by discovering my passions and values and using them to create a fulfilling and meaningful existence. I did this by implementing the following:

1. Continual Learning: Embracing a Lifetime of Growth. …
2. Mindfulness: Living in the Present. …
3. Relationships: Building Meaningful Connections.

After reflecting on 2023, and as we are at the dawn of a new year I will continue to live in the moment, marvel at the world around me, and nurture the relationships that define who I am.

Alison Moreno – Rock Collector

2023 was filled with its ups and downs. My husband unexpectedly lost his job in August, and even though I was still working, I wasn’t working enough to provide much for our family. That pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me realize there is much more I can do while still being the best wife and mother I can be.

There were many rough days, but we were able to recognize the good things we had and to stay positive until he ultimately found an amazing job. The downs in 2023 sparked my ambition and brought to life many hopes and plans. Moving into 2024 I’m excited to set my goals in motion and to see what the new year has in store for me professionally, and for my family.

Natalie Rosga – Rock Enthusiast

2023 has been a year of change. My littles are officially kindergarteners. While it is exciting to watch them grow and learn, my momma heart is a little sad as they start to gain more independence. It has also meant more “me” time during the week for work or the personal things that bring me joy. <Insert happy dance.>

It’s also been a year of becoming more faithful including finding a new church home that has welcomed my family with open arms. In 2024, I am excited to continue making the conscious effort to be joyful and find the positive in each and every situation.

Lea Ann Allen – Swiss Army Rock

2023 snuck in softly and then caused a loud ruckus! My youngest kid is finishing high school and furiously applying for colleges while playing in umpteen golf tournaments that I spent much of the year driving him to. I’m grateful he passed the test and now has his license! The brutal summer that cooked my tomato plants is making me rethink gardening. A couple rounds of COVID at my house brought everything to a grinding halt. And the birth of our first grandbaby made me feel very mortal. I felt I could never catch my breath so if I am being honest, reflecting on 2023, I am grateful that it is over. Whew! But, through it all, my sweet supportive friends and teammates at Front Porch helped me persevere.

Vicky Gouge – Design Rockczar

This year was a series of highs and lows. I turned 50 in August, had a 4^th grader with a recent ADHD diagnosis (not surprised) and dyslexia (very surprised) and was finding a new norm post-divorce. I thought everything was moving in the usual ups and downs of life; until it wasn’t. I suffered a heart attack in early October. Suddenly I wasn’t invincible. Coming to terms with having a heart attack at age 50 has been heartbreaking, enlightening, eye-opening, depressing … all the above and much more. I’m still coming to terms with it. But the people I choose to surround myself with keep me focused, engaged and happy.

I appreciate the engagement, the knowledge I gain and continue to pursue, and the support of this team. Julie has been a quiet, supportive and thoughtful ear and a steadfast leader of our team. There’s a reason we accept people to come into our lives at certain times, and I’m thankful for my “givers gain” Front Porch family. I, Charlie and family are doing well thanks to the continued love and outreach of our friends and family. Here’s to a fabulous 2024 and much success to all. With many, we can succeed.

Reflecting on 2023 to build a better 2024

From all of us on the Porch, may 2024 be filled with health, happiness, love and learning for you and yours. Cherish working with people who make you better. Celebrate wins along the way. Find the light, be there for others and rock challenges with grit and grace. Happy New Year!