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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Chandra Heath!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

We are celebrating Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s thirteenth highlight this month is the illustrious and inspiring Chandra Heath—another one of #SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporters. In fact, Chandra has been a supporter since the inception of our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. She has been an avid supporter and friend of both organizations, giving selflessly of herself and making her an invaluable part of #STSGlobal success.

Ms. Chandra has been a great asset to #SurpriseTheStruggling; being an example of leadership in business and how to become an organization that sets its standards high for everyone involved. In addition to being a great supporter and embodiment of #STS mission, Ms. Chandra has been a wealth of knowledge, giving selflessly of herself.

Chandra Heath Businessperson Heath Tax Services 20 Years in Business

When thinking of women in history, Ms. Chandra is the kind of woman that comes to mind. It is not her business acumen—though it is stellar—but her thoughtfulness and kind heart and generosity that leaves such an indelible mark. It is her love of family and friends. Often times we hear, to know who a person is, then look at the friends in which they surround themselves. There is a constant stream of family and friends surrounding Ms. Chandra. They know as we know at #STS, it is the love and kindness and authenticity to she exudes that draws others in. It is inspiring.

Chandra Heath—Supporter, Friend, Champion, Businesswoman—is the owner of Heath Tax Services in Staten Island, New York. In business for more than 20 years with over 30 years of experience, Heath Tax Services was started in 1991 by Ronnie and Chandra Heath and quickly became one of the leading tax preparation firms in the area. Since then, they have expanded their services from just personal income tax preparation to include a range of financial and insurance services for both individuals and businesses.

They are committed to providing excellent service to their clients and feel it is extremely important to continuously educate and improve their professional expertise. They employ a staff that is actively involved in professional associations such as the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), American Payroll Association (APA), Independent Payroll Providers Associations (IPPA), National Association of Insurance, and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). They are also members of the New York and New Jersey chambers of commerce.

They have earned a reputation as a Tax Service company that combines high-quality service and customer satisfaction to meet individual needs. When you look to HeathTax of Staten Island NY to take care of your Tax Service needs, you can rest assured knowing that they are trusted professionals in the industry with many years of experience serving various customers in Staten Island, Richmond County, and the Tri-State area. www.heathtax.com FB https://www.facebook.com/Heathtax/ T @heathtax

We encourage you to get to know this inspiring woman of integrity. Be inspired by devotion and dedication. We salute you, Chandra Heath! We are inspired by your service and commitment. We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…ShonTe Smith!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

We are continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s eleventh highlight this month is the selfless and devoted humanitarian ShonTe Smith—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter and New Jersey Ambassador.  Meeting ShonTe was like meeting an angel—an angel on a mission to make a difference in this world globally. ShonTe fully embraces the mission of #STSGlobal and from the beginning gave her support and love to our organization’s efforts in making a difference in the lives of those homeless and less fortunate.

ShonTe Smith The When I Grow Up Project Books4Ghana

ShonTe is a fearless young woman who is not ashamed to speak, walk, and talk her truth—living it each day with a passion that is contagious and having a profound effect on the lives of many globally. Her drive, passion, and compassion inspire #SurpriseTheStruggling to not only continue our work with diligence but to also reach out far beyond our own comfort zones; to take daring steps to help those globally, as well as locally. ShonTe’s drive and commitment remind us each day that life is a gift that we get to share with others, and that many people in this world need people to show them that they are a gift also.

ShonTe Smith—Entrepreneur, Filmmaker, Trailblazer, Student, CEO, Humanitarian—is CEO and the director of The When I Grow up Project. The When I Grow up Project is a motivational documentary that focuses on inspiring and encouraging children to follow their dreams despite the obstacles they may face. In 2013, ShonTe directed the documentary with the production of Shangosoul Entertainment and support of Plainfield New Jersey Community Television Network. The vision was to expose role models in the community for children to become inspired. The group of twenty students and ShonTe went around Plainfield asking community members and professionals to describe their occupations and their motivation. All interactions were recorded and became the foundation for the film. Throughout the summer, the film aired on Plainfield Television Network.

After two years of researching and networking, ShonTe realized this project could encourage children around the world and become a motivational movement. This thought gave birth to the Follow your Dreams Tour. This global journey has ShonTe traveling to different countries to enhance the short film to a complete documentary by gaining a global perspective, interviewing international volunteers, and understanding how the environment affects opportunities.  To learn more about this project, watch the video on YouTube- https://youtu.be/L2tAm7suYk4 or

Email- books4ghanaproject@gmail.com and follow ShonTe Smith on Instagram at, www.instagram.com/whenigrowupproject and www.instagram.com/books4ghana To donate, https://www.gofundme.com/2jc6jyk

We encourage you to get to know this Global Trailblazing Angel—be inspired by her altruistic and humanitarian endeavors. We salute you, ShonTe Smith! We are humbled and ingratiated to you for being that inspiration that inspires us to reach further. We are blessed to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Naté Jones!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s our tenth highlight this month is the vivacious and effervescent Naté Jones (Pronounced Na-tay)—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s day one supporter and champion, New York Ambassador. Naté has made herself an invaluable part of #STSGlobal. Her compassion, dedication, and commitment have made her shine like a diamond and the star that she is. From the very beginning, Naté has taken on the mission of #STS and has been responsible for launching our first Purses & Pumps, Sip and Drop & Pamper Party.

Naté has introduced us to many others who have the same commitment and drive as #SurpriseTheStruggling—who share in our mission to helping homeless women and teen girls, also those wishing to empower women. This dynamo of a woman has endeared herself to our hearts, becoming and Ambassador and a board member. Though we have not seen her for a couple of months, we have felt the continued work and support that she continues to give to our organization.

Naté Jones Leaders in Lipstick Empowerment Organization

It is inspiring to work with such a young woman as Naté, and know where you stand and what you are going to get. Her boldness, her, passion, her vivaciousness is contagious. In the same room with Naté and you cannot help but be inspired to do something; moved to make a change in your own life and the life of others. If we were to accurately say who and what Nate is to #STSGlobal, we would have to call her the Sun—bringing sunshine, warmth, energy, and vitality. She inspires, encourages, and empowers just by allowing her awesome light to shine wherever she is and with whomever, she is. Because of her, the light of #STSGlobal shines a little brighter.

Naté Jones—Actress, Dancer, Model, Trailblazer, Detroit Native, Game Changer—is Founder of Leaders In Lipstick, an empowerment organization. Leaders in Lipstick—female empowerment group—encourages goal oriented women to achieve their goals by creating platforms for mentoring, networking, and personal growth. Leaders in Lipstick encourage and support women to walk in their leadership roles and make a difference. Through her organization, Naté has executed various venues and social gatherings that have brought top entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations to come together and network—forming lifelong friendships and business connections. www.leadersinlipstick.org

Visit Naté’s social pages to stay informed and to know what you can do to become a part of Leaders in Lipstick empowerment organization. www.facebook.com/leadersinlipstick www.instagram.com/leadersinlipstick www.instagram.com/pronouncednatay and her new venture on Tea With Té,  Http://bit.ly/NatéJonesYouTube

We encourage you to get to know this Diamond Trailblazer—be inspired by her shining light. We salute you, Naté Jones! We are grateful to you and your light that has brightened who we are and what we do! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women History Month…Patricia Sykes!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

Continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s ninth highlight this month is an entrepreneur and sweet treat maven, Patricia Sykes—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s inspirational and day one supporter, Ambassador from New York. Patricia encompasses the heart of #STSGlobal mission. Our front-line Ambassador—Patricia is taking it to the streets to meet the people where they are. She has donated her time, services, and talents—to not only our organization—but to countless others. She is raising awareness for each cause that is near and dear to both our hearts. Patricia has a dedicated spirit and heart to making a difference. This was evident when on one of the coldest times in New York history, she took to the streets with #STS and other volunteers and Ambassadors, giving out coats, blankets, toiletries, gloves, and food. This is why she is considered our frontline Ambassador because she is not afraid of the getting out of her comfort zone and bringing aid to those in need of service.

Patricia Sykes Suga Mamas Treats and Tees, Ambassador

If you should know anything about Patricia, it is that she has one of the hugest hearts and such a passion for children. We believe that it is her motherhood, which makes her shine the brightest and drives her passion and compassion to assist #SurpriseTheStruggling in its many endeavors.

Some of you may also know our Ambassador as Suga Mama Treats! In her capacity as a baker, Patricia has provided her talents to countless causes; including many #STS events. One of the things we love most about Patricia—a.k.a Suga Mamas Treats—are the kid-friendly workshops and opportunities that she sponsors and holds exclusively for children. It is unique and inspiring, and a reflection of Patricia’s huge spirit and why we absolutely adore her.

Patricia Sykes—Mother, Entrepreneur, Humanitarian, Frontline Ambassador, Friend—is CEO of Suga Mamas Treats and Tees. An artisanal and gourmet online bakery that specializes in treats baked, created and designed from scratch—using only the freshest ingredients seasonally available, that have garnered them the reputation for having the highest quality and great tasting products.

Suga Mamas Treats and Tees is a family based business established by Patricia and her ten-year-old daughter, Denise. The business was birthed from an idea that her daughter had to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness month. Encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit in her daughter, and combining her passion for baking, Suga Mamas Treats was established as a kid-friendly venture. Please visit their website: www.sugamamastreats.com to learn more about Patricia and her daughter Denise, and the wonderful products and services being offered. Be certain to check out the gallery of her work. We promise you, you will be quickly placing an order and inquiring about one of the many kid-friendly parties that Patricia hosts.

Whatever you do, do yourself a service and get to know the awesome woman that will only bring more sweetness and goodness to your life. We appreciate you, Patricia Sykes—Sugar Mamas Treats! We are honored and over the moon to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Iesha Sekou!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

We are continuing our celebration of Women’s History Month! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s eighth highlight this month is the educator and crusader of justice, Iesha Sekou—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s powerful and awe-inspiring Ambassador from New York, NY. Where do we begin with the accolades for this powerful woman? The voice of the voiceless? This Queen, who lays it on the line each and every day; risking it all to save our youth and to give them a voice, an outlet, an education, a future—is the embodiment of love and strength. Ms. Iesha lays is walking the talk and not just talking it. She is living and breathing it, and has done so for over thirty years.

Words cannot adequately convey the love and gratitude that we have for Iesha Sekou. This is why she is our very first recipient of the #STS Community Leadership Award—presented at our First Anniversary Celebration. She has been a champion for #STSGLOBAL as well as our sister organization, The Stop Bullying Project®. She has gone out of her way to assist and to encourage and mentor. Iesha is a living and breathing embodiment of #SurpriseTheStruggling’s mission; living each day, giving back to those in her community. Her community is not just where she resides, it is all encompassing of every young person needing a champion; every man or woman needing resources to better their life circumstances. From the moment Iesha connected with #Surprisethestruggling, it has been one opportunity after another to spread and share our mission and to reach people in places we would never have reached on our own. She is a treasure of wisdom and knowledge, and we are so fortunate to have her as an Ambassador, friend, and personal mentor and surrogate Mom of our Founder, Dr. Jacquelyn Wilson.

Iesha Sekou, Educator, Activist, Founder of Street Corner Resources

Iesha Sekou—Mentor, Champion, Educator, Activist, Game-Changer, Trailblazer—is the Founder of Street Corner Resources (SCR). Street Corner Resources is a nonprofit organization located at Harlem Renaissance High School. Founded in 2007 by Iesha Sekou, Street Corner Resources mission is to empower young people to stay away from gun and gang violence through music, employment, education, training, and other resources. In addition, Street Corner Resources seeks to reduce the amount of gun and gang violence in the Harlem community. SCR seeks to create a more peaceful community by providing teenagers and young adults greater access to real employment, education, training and other resources to assist them as they strive for success.

Ms. Iesha is also the host of a weekly radio show, Street Corner Resources Live on Harlem Community Radio (WHCR 90.3 FM) The program combines information and dialogue on many of the important issues facing the community. Topics include violence prevention, community policing, career development and more. SCR LIVE often highlights the lives of individuals who are making a positive impact in our community. Street Corner Resources LIVE airs every Monday morning from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on WHCR 90.3 FM.

Please visit SCR webpage for more information. Find out how you can become involved with this powerful organization. http://www.scrnyc.org

Whatever you do, do yourself a service and get to know this powerful woman of change. We salute you Iesha Sekou! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Keisha T. Christie!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues. #SurpriseTheStruggling’s sixth highlight this month is the incomparable and consummate professional, Keisha T. Christie—#SurpriseTheStruggling’s tried and true Ambassador extraordinaire from Queens, NY. There is so much that can be said for this darling of a human being who is full of love and compassion that can barely be matched by anyone else when in her presence. Keisha has made herself an integral part of the success of #SurpriseTheStruggling. An invaluable member of our Ambassador’s team; Keisha has proven repeatedly that her heart is for the advancement and betterment of the people in her community, as well as globally. Each day she lives and represents the mission and slogan of #STSGLOBAL: “We meet the people where they’re at…Period!”

Keisha Christie Level Up Connections Motivational Speaker Wealth Activator

From day one of connecting with this outstanding businessperson, #STS has been fortunate to be a recipient of her kindness and generosity. Whether it is hosting brunches, our One Year Anniversary, to surprise pop-ups; giving tutorials on makeup, teaching about business, sleeping out to save our children from the streets to organizing a means to send donations to Jamaica—Keisha’s heart for the people and dedication to her post as an Ambassador has blown us away. She is the epitome of dedication and professionalism. We are humbled to have her work with us and beside us.

Keisha T. Christie—Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur, Mentor, Doer, Realtor, and Philanthropist—is also the Founder of Level Up Connections. She is creating legacies to last generations. Keisha is using her platform to make changes in the lives of countless people; regardless to age. She is determined to educate, motivate, and propel people into a position of not only recognizing but also stepping into the life that they were ordained to live. Keisha is that catalyst that many people need in their lives to help them see the big picture; Coaching individuals to see their lives through different lenses, offering a wealth of services to optimize your life and revenue. Visit her pages on https://instagram.com/levelupconnections  & https://facebook.com/wealthmotivator

We implore you to get to know the dedicated woman is blazing a path, creating an astounding legacy. We salute you, Keisha T. Christie! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Velvette T. Mattison-Batson

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

Celebrating Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s fourth highlight this month is the innovative and event mastermind behind POYED BY VELEVETTE, CEO Velvette T. Mattison-Batson, I.E.W.P—#STSGlobal’s number one event-planner extraordinaire and New York Ambassador. Our humble sister has been dedicated and driven when it comes to the mission of #SupriseTheStruggling. We extend our gratitude to Velvette for choosing to be a part of #STS.

Velvette has gone far and above when it comes to promoting the mission and message of our global #hashtag Campaign because she herself believes in the same principle and mission. Velvette and her organization, B2BAB (Blessed To Be A Blessing) supported the efforts of #SupriseTheStruggling at the third year Blessing Bag Fundraiser Brunch. The Blessing Bag fundraiser is a unique give back opportunity and female empowerment platform for women and young girls committed to aide in the fight against homelessness created by Velvette. Through this fundraiser, business owners and entrepreneurs collectively donated over 2,800 Sanitary/Toiletry items that were placed Blessing Bags to help homeless women and teen girls, not only here in America, but also in Haiti. We honor Velvette for the strides that she is making in the lives of young women, and women in general, not just in her community but also globally. She is a true champion for the people and deserves her place as a woman in history.

Velvette T. Mattison-Batson, I.E.W.P. POYED by Velvette, B2BAB

Velvette is the CEO and founder of POYED by Velvette— Pinking of YOU Events & Design. POYED by Velvette is an Event Catering, Designing, Management, Planning, and Staffing Business with a clear mission, to provide exemplary and comprehensive services for their clients. With over 15 years of experience and an exceptionally keen eye for details, they are successful in fulfilling the desires of their clients by listening intensively to what they want and focusing on exceeding their expectations. When you choose POYED by Velvette or your event or wedding, you are choosing excellence, professionalism, dedication, and a day free from worries—one of the best investments you will ever make. Be sure to visit POYED by Velvette at, http://poyed.org to learn more about POYED services and B2BAB initiatives.

We implore you to get to know the vibrant and dedicated woman who is making history every day through her work, service, and dedication. We salute you, Velvette T. Mattison-Batson! We are over the moon to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Rismia Johnson!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

Our celebration of Women’s History Month continues! #SurpriseTheStruggling’s third highlight this month is the eloquent and inspiring, Rismia Johnson—#STSGlobal Ambassador from Brooklyn, NY. Our beautiful sister has elevated the meaning of service and sisterhood with her dedication and support of #SupriseTheStruggling. We are forever grateful to have Rismia be a part of #STS. No, matter the call, event, whether day or night, Rismia has gone beyond to assist and spread the message and share our global #hashtag Campaign. Rismia was one of our first Ambassadors who held a Surprise Bags and Brunch in the TENT to promote and support the efforts of #SupriseTheStruggling. We recognize Rismia Johnson this Women’s History Month, as a woman who is making strides in her community, her city, her state, and globally. Most importantly, she is leaving an indelible mark on the lives women and teen girls that she not only knows but those she may never meet but has had a hand in helping through difficult times. Her faith and strong spirit shining through all that she does and touches every soul she meets.

Rismia Johnson, Business Owner, Philanthropist, Founder, www.eloquentessentials.com

Rismia is the owner and creator of Eloquent Essentials—Uniquely beautiful and eye-catching accessories that fit all budgets. The designs are classic, eloquent, and add an extra flair of opulence that is not often seen in such affordable pieces of fashion. Each design is uniquely chosen to fit the beauty of the person that is wearing it; making Eloquent Essentials a piece of art instead of just jewelry or accessory—taking fashion to another level. A company birthed through prayer, EE brings another level of excellence and grace, not only to their products but also to their customers. Be sure to visit, www.eloquentessentials.com for eloquent pieces and accessories at affordable prices for the entire family.

In addition to Eloquent Essentials, Rismia is an extraordinary hostess, entrepreneur, humanitarian, and philanthropist. She does not just talk the talk, but she lives and walks it each day. Rismia is the founder of, Eloquent Essentials Youth Scholarship Program. EEYSP is designed to invest in tomorrow’s generation; providing the support needed so the path is more welcoming for young entrepreneurs and youth mentoring organizations. For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/EEYSProgram

We encourage you to get to know the dynamic woman who is making history every day through her work, service, support, and family. We salute you, Rismia Johnson! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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Celebrating Women’s History Month…Lisa Sumpter

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

Continuing our celebration of  Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling’s second highlight this month is the audacious and awe-inspiring, Lisa Sumpter—#STSGlobal Ambassador for Philadelphia, PA. Our dear sister has been a shining example of sisterhood and bringing a great service and dedication to #SupriseTheStruggling in so many different ways. We do not believe that there are enough words to adequately express just how honored we are to have Lisa be a part of #STS. Whenever called on to assist or to be a part of an event—if available, she is there, and if she cannot physically be present, she is sending support in various other ways. Because of her love, dedication, drive, and willingness to go above and beyond, we recognize Lisa Sumpter this Women’s History Month, as a woman who is making a change in her community, her city, her state, globally, and most importantly, in the lives of her family and friends, and women and ten girls she may never lay eyes on.

Lisa Sumpter, Sister Prison Wives Best Friends & Families

Lisa wears many hats; host, humanitarian, a people connector, and in public relations—just to name a few. Working alongside her sister, Lisa is the co-founder of Sister Prison Wives, Best Friends & Families (SPWBFF), a 501(c) 3 Non-Profit Community Organization Supporting Children & Families of the Incarcerated. www.spw-bff.org. SPWBFF’s mission is to provide and promote education and awareness of the impact of incarceration on children and families. SPWBFF is a movement to identify and support the needs of affected children and families and assist returning citizens with re-entry into society. In addition to the wonderful work that Lisa does with SPWBFF, Lisa has a degree in Communications and a Masters in Education. She is also a PA Mobile Notary Public, PA Licensed Real Estate Agent and part a family travel agency—Robinson’s Travel.

We encourage you to get to know the dynamic woman who is making history every day through her work, service, support, and family. We salute you, Lisa Sumpter! We are honored to have you be a part of the #SurpriseTheStruggling Family!
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It’s March and We are Celebrating Women’s History Month!

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

#Surprisethestruggling

 

This March, celebrating Women’s History Month, #SurpriseTheStruggling will be highlighting the brilliant and beautiful women that help this organization to be what it is. Without their support, love, kindness, and dedication of each of these women, the #STSGLOBAL #hashtag campaign would have never made the strides it has this past year of service. These women bring their “A” game to all that they do! Be sure to follow their pages and get to know these powerful, brilliant, and beautiful women.

CEO, Consultant and Author, Ruthe McDonald

Our first highlight is, the “behind the scenes person,” and Mynding My Own Business’s CLO, Ruthe McDonald, affectionately known as Rue. Rue is #SurpriseTheStruggling’s go to person in charge of the Ambassador and volunteer recruitment, fundraising coordinator, organization writer, and general PR liaison. From day one, Rue has shown dedication in helping to promote and bring recognition to the strides and efforts that Surprise The Struggling is making within the homeless community, by aiding homeless women and teen girls. She is also the person you want to contact and talk to if you are seeking out Dr. Jacquelyn Wilson.

CEO, Author, Teacher, Certified Nonprofit Consultant and Executive, Publisher, Editor, and Copywriter. Rue is an entrepreneur at heart; part owner of a small press publishing company and consulting boutique (JohnRue™ Publishing) and the owner of RueFox™ Inc.—a conglomerate of several small businesses. According to Rue, second to her love of writing are consulting and teaching; consulting small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals to meet personal and professional goals. Nominated, she accepted the 2017 position of a Board of Governor with the prestigious, National Association of Nonprofits and Executives (NANOE) for her consulting and executive work, and current work with #SurpriseTheStruggling, Inc. To find out more about Rue, her books, and services, visit her website at, www.ruthemcdonald.com.