I recall when I launched my first business, how alone and adrift I was in the sea of websites, sourcing and referrals.  I knew nothing and was so over my head and took a lot of hits along the way.

Now, a few years into this whole thing I feel like I have a tribe of women around me who support and nurture each other. They remember, they assist and they do it all without expectation of something in return. Sometimes they are just there for ideas, or support . . . or they help me see myself differently, or accurately (depends on where you are looking from!)

They have become my tribe.  Partners in my business & life, without being my business  (or life) partners. 

And this year, they will be my valentines!

Thank you ladies . . .

Christine – A “meant to be friend” we were thrown together while both of us were still wandering through the murky waters of finding out who we were “post child bearing” Christine has covered my arse, been a shoulder to lean on and made me laugh more times than I can count. And now she makes every silly idea I have look pretty . . . cause I am so not good at pretty! She also drinks all my leftover white wine . .  I am more of a red girl!

Check her newly launched site out at www.mspixel.ca

Kristy – I have always wanted to work with Kristy and finally got the chance when she responded to a desperate facebook plea I made many months ago. She totally “got me” and since then she has been my go-to for awesome branding. She rocked my 3chicken manifesto like no other could!  If you need a vision for your business, this mama will rock it.

Sam– clever, clever, clever Sam. She does things before I even think of them. Sam has built so many back ends (of websites) that I think she can do it in her sleep . . . but then again, with a new babe, I doubt she is getting much of that.  And I love fast, and efficient and NOW people . .  sam again has had my back (end) on more than one occasion. If you have a finicky site, or need a new one, connect and launch  . . . today!

Shannon – even though she makes me feel really old, shannon was the initial inspiration for me to grow some balls and start living a dream and taking chances.  She also introduced me to Saki Margaritas . . . that was a bad idea. And both shannon’s ideas and the margaritas have opened up a huge can o’ worms in my brain about living outside of the status quo .  If you want a seed planted check her (and Diana! Another super awesome mom, but alas, no margaritas!) out and get digging!

And when I need to cry, or ask questions, laugh, or get help, I call Sharon, Kyla, Erin & Tamara, Pam, Jules & Jennie. And I know they would ask me right back . . . cause that is what a tribe is for!  There are so many amazing women out there waiting (and willing) to help . . . all you need to do is ask!

So this Valentines . . . send some love to the ladies in your tribe! You can send them chocolate too, chocolate is always nice!

Happy Valentines Day!