The Blog of P.U.R.E. and Sue Scheff

Most everyone knows that right behind find that perfect gift for the person that has everything, a teenager can be just as difficult to buy for. Different from the the person that has everything (they usually have money too), a teen will love the cold cash !  Forget the gift cards, rip-up the checks, and good old fashion cash is gold to them. There is a thought process many parents have that our teens will not be responsible with the cash.  That may be true, however do you realize how many gift cards are not used or not used to their full value?  A lot! Although gift cards are definitely an easier gift to give, especially now that you can purchase them in most grocery stores and department stores such as Walmart, be sure the recipient will use the entire card - a little reminder doesn't hurt. One of the more frequent issues teens have with gift cards is remembering to use them.  How many have you found when cleaning your teens bedroom - or better ye...

Cartoonist and author, Tom Wilson , also known as Ziggy , is generously contributing 100% of his royalties to LIVESTRONG in memory of his wife, Susan. She passed away of breast cancer on November 18, 2000. From today until Susan's birthday, January, 19, 2010 when you order any books from Health Communications, Inc. (HCI) through this affiliate link , http://zigzagging.hcibooks.com/ a percentage will be donated to LIVESTRONG. Health Communications Inc. offers a wonderful library of self-help books, inspirational books, Memoirs and so much more. HCI is the original home of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series and is now continuing their heartfelt generosity to LIVESTRONG. I am privileged that HCI is also my publisher and able to add my books to the list that will be giving back. Check out the slideshow for a few of the titles and explore HCI's website. Be sure to enter HCI through http://zigzagging.hcibooks.com/ to order the books. It is holiday time and books make a per...

Skip the holiday presents - give the gift of virtual presence! The who: * Help jump-start your potential college applicant/application. * Out of work? Learn to promote your skills online. * Professional or small business owner? Learn to own and manage your virtual image. The why: •53% of Americans Google each other. Pew Internet & American Life •26% of college admissions officers use search engines to research candidates. University of Massachusetts Center for Market Research •64% of teens say that most teens do things online that they wouldn’t want their parents to know about. anti-drug.com •77% of executive recruiters use search engines to research applicants. CareerBuilder The how: Tip 1: Check out your social networking sites. If there is information or photo’s on there you wouldn’t share with your grandparents, chances are they shouldn’t be on the Internet. Keep it clean! Tip 2: Sign up for personal branding services. This is free. Services such as Naymz , Ziggs , LinkedIn a...

Ross Ellis, founder of Love Our Children USA and STOMP Out Bullying is a dedicated and devoted crusader to help protect children in our country. Recently she wrote a fantastic and timely article to help protect you and your teens during this holiday season. Cyber Monday is a very busy time online. Here are some great tips by Ross Ellis – and as a Parent Advocate , I believe everyone needs to take the time to learn more about keeping you and your family safe in cyberspace! Dated: November 25, 2009 Cyber Monday is 6 days away, for those online shoppers who want a great deal on their holiday gifts. 61% of consumers are shopping online and that includes teens shopping online as well. Here’s what you can do to ensure online safety: • Talk to your teens about online safety and how to avoid these online Cyber Monday scams • Be sure you know what sites your teens are shopping on • Make sure the web site is legitimate before inputting your credit card info • Make sure the site provides full...

Did you take part in Black Friday? Many people set their alarm clocks for those 4:00am sales. Everyone is looking for a bargain. In a year that has been less than financially friendly to many families, these early morning sales can help them make a difference in giving their child that special gift they asked for. During this time of year, it is also time to think about so many gifts that won't cost you money, however will be priceless in their value. Here are some ideas: Your time. It is that simple, your children crave your attention and would love to have more time with you. Can you make a promise to take more time out of your schedule and give it to your child? Learn about " Family Time Out " all year round. Volunteer with your family. There is nothing more fulfilling than giving back to those with less. Contact your local Goodwill , Red Cross or Salvation Army . Find out where the homeless shelters or soup kitchens are in your area - take a day to donate your t...