QWERTY: Writer @ Work

Happy Labor Day

2010-09-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a very Happy Labor Day!

(c) photo Gen Bailey

The Lure of a Good Beach Book

2010-07-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

Okay I'll admit it. I love beach books. I read lots of "literary" things in college. Steinbeck. Shakespeare. Poe. Angelou. But there's something about this hot and humid weather that makes me long for something more...fun? Not to say that Shakespeare and the others can't be fun. I read plenty of non-fiction and serious fiction for pleasure, but beach books somehow for me are like the soap operas on television. Dramatic, bold and always full of suspense! I'll read a romance, mystery, thriller...any genre is fine as long as it is fun. There's nothing like sinking into a beach chair, hearing the waves lap on the beach and thumbing through a nice thick, entertaining book!

One of my favorite beach books last year was Adored by Tilly Bagshawe. It's a Hollywood drama that is multi-generational and lots of fun. The characters were unique and there was great conflict and intrigue. I simply couldn't turn those pages fast enough sometimes!

I'm on the lookout for a good beach book. What are you reading this summer? Any suggestions? Any favorites?

(c) photo mac pale

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a very Happy 4th of July!

(c) photo Gen Bailey

Friday's Freebie: 10 Moo Cards

2010-07-03T13:03:00.000-07:00

Say "moo!" with your business card! Are you tempted to?

Moo Cards are smaller than typical business cards, a unique look. They come in a variety of custom papers such as recycled and laminated. But you can order them in small quantities like 50 or 200, ideal for the solopreneur or small business.

You can try out 10 Moo Cards for fr*e, even the shipping is fr*e (check restrictions). What a great deal...why it's enough to make anyone say "moo!"

(c) photo Marijn van Braak

2 Great Writer's Conferences Coming Up Soon

2010-06-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

Are you a writer? Many people long to write a book or start a freelance writing career. There are 2 great, free online writing conferences coming up soon that you won't want to miss.

The Muse Online Writer's Conference is held in October but registration is now, until August 1st when a fee of $5 starts for the latecomers. Lots of writing topics covered at this conferences, from fiction to nonfiction and many genres.

KidLit is a writing conference especially for children's writers. Registration starts July 1st and the conference will be held during the summer.

Both look great so don't delay your registration!

(c) photo Benjamin Earwicker

Cool Sites and Tools: Malewarebytes

2010-06-28T14:22:00.000-07:00

If you're online (and today...who isn't?) you know that you need to protect your computer at all times. Just like colds and viruses can find you in everyday life, maleware and trojans can "find" your computer as you go about your day. And you can't just reach for a box of tissues and a glass of orange juice to solve the problem!

Protecting your computer is important. Malewarebytes can protect your computer from maleware and trojans - and it's free! It is easy to download and use (check to see if it works with your computer first).

(c) photo Evah Smit

Friday's Freebie: Send 2 Fr*e Faxes Daily

2010-06-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

In today's world of e-mail, faxes have become less common. But many still do fax - and some simply can't live without this great business tool. And if you don't have your own fax machine, faxing at your local office supply store can really start to add up!

Here is a website that lets you send 2 fr*e faxes a day. GotFreeFax.com. The page # is limited so read the site for details. How ideal you can fax that client, vendor or whoever you need to reach - knowing you don't have to reach deep into your pockets everytime you need to send that fax! Anyone who faxes knows these little expenses can really add up!

(c) photo Jakub Krechowicz

Stretching Yourself

2010-06-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

It's easy to do the same thing over and over again. Most of us know we are paid for our expertise. But stretching yourself and learning new things has a lot of benefits. Even if it doesn't relate to your job - stretching yourself to learn a skill can help you in many ways.

It exercises your brain. Giving your brain new ways to think and trying different things is like a new workout for your body. It's fun but challenging - and something we should all give our brains a chance at doing regularly.

It's a self-confidence boost. Sometimes we shoehorn ourselves as certain skill sets. Learning a new skill shows you that you can do other things, tackle new projects. It puts a new tool in your toolbox.

Failure sometimes can mean success. Not everything you try is going to be a slam dunk - and this is often why adults avoid learning new things: they figure they could fail and failing things feels bad. But it also teaches us. It reminds us what we love to do and what we don't. Sometimes it is a sign that you'd rather be doing something else. Other times it can point you in a new direction you never knew existed.

"You miss 100% of the shots you never take." -- Gretsky

(c) photo Glenn Pebley

Cool Sites and Tools: Cinnamon Software Talking Alarm Clock

2010-06-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ever wished your alarm clock could talk? Or wondered what it would say if it could?

This is a really cool tool, easily downloaded to your desktop. A talking alarm clock that gives you reminders of every kind. Got a project due at 2 p.m.? Set an alarm to remind yourself! Have an appointment? Use an alarm to leave the office on time! Need to remember to water the plants? Your plants will be so happy you decided to set an alarm - reminding yourself to water them!

There are so many uses for the Cinnamon Software's Talking Alarm Clock. Warning: this alarm clock can get kind of addictive. It's easy to want to set many types of alarms - and it is fun to watch them come up on your desktop. This is a great tool for those of us stuck in front of our computers all day. Use this alarm clock to get it all done - and especially to get it all done on time. Remember: time is precious!

(c) photo Cema

How's Your TBR Pile?

2010-02-20T14:41:00.001-08:00

Looking at my own TBR pile I find myself wondering about other people's TBR stacks. What is in your To Be Read pile and how large is it? Do you have a limit of the number of books you'll "allow" yourself to keep in your TBR pile - or do you simply let them collect as books inspire you along the way? Any "rules" in general about your TBR pile? Do you keep your TBR pile in a special place?

I keep my TBR pile on my nightstand. It looks at me every morning as I wake up saying, "Read me!" and every night reminding me what still hasn't been read. A book is always easily within reach if I have trouble sleeping - sometimes that comforting thought is just enough to keep me from ever having a sleepless night!

My TBR pile has both fiction and nonfiction in it. I have some friends who insist on reading their TBR pile "in order" that is the books from the top of the stack first - but I read whatever pleases me from the stack and don't choose a book at the top simply because it is next on top.

What about your TBR pile? What's in yours? How does it stack up?

photo credits (c) Jess Bio

Counting the Days 'Till Spring...

2010-02-20T14:36:00.000-08:00

I heard someone on the radio say we were "just 31 days" from Spring. That was a few days ago - so today we must be about 29 days away from Spring. A very exciting thought as we still are bundling into our winter coats and stepping through piles of snow.

But Spring will soon be here! I love this time of year because it is full of possibilities. Some may find it a bit frustrating the way the weather changes from cold to warm so quickly - but I enjoy the way Spring pushes through Winter - edging it out of the way bit by bit. Then before we know it we are reaching for our lighter jackets and there's no need for a sweater. How wonderful is that?

So while the weather report is calling for "more snow" on Monday I still have hope. Hope that Spring is coming and it's coming sooner than we even realize. Let's just enjoy the change of seasons for the moment - it won't last forever!

photo credit (c) Sanja Gjenero

Happy Birthday to all February Birthdays!

2010-02-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of the February birthday folks a very Happy Birthday! May your birthday wishes come true - and you get a piece of birthday cake with an icing rose on it!

photo credit (c) Ariel da Silva Parreira

Christmas in Outer Space anthology available for the holidays

2009-12-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

My first sci-fi story is in the Christmas anthology, Christmas in Outer Space. Available through Whortleberry Press, this anthology has 30 Holly-day (pun intended) stories about outer space. Thank you Jean for a great anthology! It is a funny and unique anthology you simply won't find anywhere else!

Have You Been to the Pumpkin Patch?

2009-10-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...time to go to the pumpkin patch!

There are so many things to love about Fall. The air is crisp, leaves change to reds and golds, the pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks. But one of my favorites is a visit to the pumpkin patch to pick out the annual Halloween pumpkin.

It used to be there were few places you could get your Halloween pumpkin, they were special, just a bit elusive. Today you can find Halloween pumpkins in so many places - at your grocery stores and garden centers and even at those superstores.

The pumpkin patch is special. It makes you feel like you hunting out that perfect pumpkin in it's ideal spot: nature. While this may not be the exact place the pumpkin was picked - the pumpkin patch is likely full of pumpkins picked together. You can imagine them growing on the vine together.

Maybe that's the reason I always wind up going home with more than one. I don't like separating a family!

Were You a "Wild Thing" Too?

2009-10-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

I remember as a child one of my favorite books was Where The Wild Things Are. I always thought that Max was so very brave, to spend all of that time with monsters. I especially admired the fact he got to go outside in his footie pajamas!

Where The Wild Things Are fans will be pleased to know the movie opens today. Sure to please both adults (big kids) and kids alike. I think many people have been looking forward to this movie. Pass the popcorn!

(c) Photo Damien Searles

Harvest Moon Today

2009-10-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

There's a full moon today...can you feel it? Did I even have to tell you?

Today's a special full moon, it's called a Harvest Moon. Many people that love the moon enjoy this full moon because when it arrives it signals that we are nearing the Autumn Equinox.

The slight chill in the air, turning of the leaves and Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks all signal that fall is officially under way. Enjoy!

(c) Photo ew9

Put it in the Pig

2009-09-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Do you have one? A piggy bank that is?

Maybe you've outgrown the idea. I happen to collect piggy banks. There are some rather unique looking piggy banks that are special and fun. While everyone needs to make big savings goals - a piggy bank can remind you to make smaller savings goals too.

Perhaps you've seen that bank commercial that talks about adding the change to your savings account to help you save. It's a great idea. Saving change can be a terrific way to save money a little at a time so you don't even notice it. I know my piggy bank can hold quite a bit when it fills up.

Try a piggy bank - or an old coffee jar to save for a special treat. That espresso machine you've wanted for awhile. Or that appointment with the fancy schmancy salon down the street. Make it a piggy bank goal. You'll be amazed at just how fast your coins add up!

Photo (c) Carlos Zaragoza

The Perfect Time for Used Book Sales

2009-09-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

I have to admit one of my favorite things about the fall and winter seasons are used book sales. Have you ever been to one? There actually easier to find than you would think.

Many are run by your local library or college/university. These are a great way to add to your personal library for a fraction of the cost. I know I've bought a bag full of books for the price of one brand new hardcover many times.

You can easily find used book sales by visiting www.booksalefinder.com and pop in your zip code. They even have a service that will e-mail you when there are book sales in your area from a certain mile radius. This is both very convenient - and a service that may have you wishing for more bookshelves! Happy reading!

Photo (c) Jess Bio

It's Pumpkin Time!

2009-09-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's pumpkin time! It seems wherever I go, I see pumpkins ready for children to turn into Jack O'Lanterns. Halloween will soon be here. While we've had an Indian summer with warmer temperatures, it is finally starting to cool. Pumpkin time has arrived and fall has made it's entrance.

What are you going to carve on your pumpkin? I always carve a smile. Sometimes I've carved a different looking face - last year I did a cat's face and another year I did a vampire face. I prefer a silly or smiling looking pumpkin than one that is spooky in style.

So go out and grab your pumpkin - there's one that is waiting for your family to claim it! Enjoy the Halloween season.

Photo credit (c) naneki

I heart Etsy

2009-09-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

Can I say how much I heart Etsy? I think I'm becoming addicted to this crafty, creative store.

If you haven't been to Etsy.com, be prepared to see many beautiful, yummy things you simply "must" have at once. Gemstone necklaces, vintage crafts, scrapbooking craft items, handknitted baby things, wedding gifts to really "wow" - there are so many things.

What I think is the most cool is the ways you can search Etsy.com. You can search by color, by type of material and by theme. You can also search by the Etsy.com storeowner you wish to shop at, as each seller has a store there, some even have several stores.

With the holiday shopping season just underway, now is the ideal time to check out Etsy.com for beautiful things. This is a great way to give memorable, lovely gifts!

(c) Photo J. Andersen

2010 in Sight

2009-09-18T09:59:00.000-07:00

We are now in mid-September and I'm going to say something wild to you: 2010 is in sight. Are you ready for that?

Think back to all of those New Year's Resolutions you made for 2009. How many did you keep? How much progress did you make on those goals if you didn't accomplish them fully? If you didn't achieve them - what do you think is standing in your way? Or do you want something else?

Now is the ideal time to think of what New Year's Resolutions you'd like for 2010 - or maybe simply what changes or additions you'd like in your life. How are you going to create this new life? You can do it!

(c) Photo Bartek Ambrozik

See the Stars with a Galileoscope

2009-09-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the International Year of Astronomy (2009) a non-profit group decided to create an inexpensive telescope. This way everyone could enjoy the beauty of the stars and the planets.

The Galileoscope is about $20 or $15 if you order them in bulk, plus shipping costs.

Part of the fun is that the Galileoscope can be put together and taken apart and re-put together, something ideal to teach children more about science.

Celebrate the International Year of Astronomy and just enjoy the stars more - or check out the Galileoscope. It looks really interesting!

(c) Photo Duncan Miller

Are You Ready for NaNoWriMo?

2009-09-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Are you ready? NaNoWriMo is coming.

Okay I know some of you are now saying, "What's NaNoWriMo?" National Novel Writing Month occurs every November, starting at midnight on October 31st to the very beginning of November 1st and running to the end of November. During this month participants write a 50 thousand word novel on the topic of their choice.

Whew!

It sounds like a lot of work. Actually it is a lot of work. But it's also a lot of fun. There's something about NaNoWriMo that is totally crazy to think you can do it. But you can: I've done it for three years. I've "won" twice. Winning means crossing that 50k finish line. But hey....anyone even attempting this feat could be considered a winner. How often do people say they want to write a book when they don't even try?

You can write your NaNoWriMo novel on just about any topic. Visit their website for the full official rules. You have about six weeks to plan out your novel if you want to come up with some ideas - or use the time to panic if you'd prefer to meet the deadline head-on and just see what comes up.

Go ahead - write a novel! Join NaNoWriMo for 2009!

(c) Photo Benjamin Earwicker

Happy Grandparents' Day

2009-09-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

Wishing a Happy Grandparents' Day to all of the special grandparents! Thank you for sharing your wisdom, love and hugs!

(c) Photo Silvia Cosmini

Take a Fr*e Online Course this Fall

2009-09-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

There's something about Fall that makes you feel like you should be back in school.

With so many subjects to consider - why not look into a fr*e online course to brush up? Online courses are a convenient way to learn about just about any subject. Today you can find online courses that are fr*e and offer valuable information. Here are some great places to get started.

Free-Ed.Net You can find 300 plus courses here, many on academic type of study subjects. This is a great place to visit to learn everything you want to keep up with (or feel you missed...) in school.

Small Business Administration This is a great place to find courses to help start or maintain your small business. If you are curious about owning your own small business, this is an ideal place to begin learning new skills and gain information for success.

MIT Now you can finally say you "go to MIT!" With their online courses you can learn many academic subjects and topics of today's interest. Their courses are considered some of the best online courses available today.

I Heart School Supplies

2009-09-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Call me a nerd. Go ahead!

I heart school supplies. There's just something about them that I totally groove about. Fresh pencils, chunky notebooks ready for you to write in or even the classic box of Crayolas with the sharpener in the back. Remember those?

The school supply sales have been great this season. It has been hard to resist not just going to them - but going back repeatedly. I've been twice to my local office supply store to get bargains and stock up. A pile of notebooks waits for me now in the closet. I have highlighters, pens, permanent markers and even more colored pens on my desk, in the living room and in my purse. Writing surfaces await!

So have you been getting school supplies...even if you aren't going back to school this Fall? Do you....like me, secretly or not-so-secretly heart school supplies too?

(c) Photo Daniel Ingegeri

Last Days of Summer

2009-09-07T14:28:00.000-07:00

Summer's almost over...how are you spending these last few days? It's easy now to notice that Fall is in the air. The air is crisper, cooler and just "feels" like Fall. The slower more languid pace of Summer has given way to the faster pace of Fall with schedules packed full of things to do.

But don't worry, we've still got a few days of summer left. There's still time to bake a fresh peach pie or have real lemonade. Or go to the beach and have a picnic afterwards. Or see one of those blockbuster movies. What are you going to do with this Summer time we have?

(c) Photo Nicholas Sales

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a very Happy 4th of July!

Great Gym That Powers Itself Through Workouts

2009-02-02T15:37:00.000-08:00

Going green makes sense for many businesses. A gym in Portland, Oregon has actually started to use the energy from the exercise bikes and treadmills to power the gym itself. Their goal is to power the gym fully from man-made energy -- you could call it sweat equity! Green Microgym's ideal is rather unique and hopefully it will catch on. One might think that people would work out just a bit harder for the fun of keeping the mini televisions in front of them going and the lights on!

Photo with thanks (c) Michal Zacharzewski

Celebrate Your Birthday...for Fr*e!

2009-02-02T15:34:00.000-08:00

Birthdays are expensive. This cool website FreeBirthdayTreats shares many restaurants and businesses that give goodies away to help you celebrate your special day. Get a free lunch, dinner or other treat -- just because it is your birthday!

Your birthday comes but once a year -- it's your time to celebrate!

Give Unused Medication to the Needy with the Starfish Project

2009-02-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

Many have heard of the Starfish story. About a man walking along the beach, throwing starfish into the water. Someone walks up to him and asks him if what he is doing and "does it really make a difference?" He throws another starfish in the water. "It did to that Starfish," he responds.

You can help to make a difference for the poor in Nigeria that desperately need your unused medication. Many people wind up with medication they simply don't use. Perhaps their doctor changes a prescription mid-use -- or they just don't need to take the pills anymore. These medications could help ill people across the globe and make a great difference.

Learn more about the Starfish Project here.

Single Pet Lovers Rejoice!

2009-02-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

If you are single and love your pet...now you can meet fellow singles that love their kitty, pooch or birdy just as much as you do. What could be more fun that walking your dogs together or going shopping for kitty toys together? Pure unadulterated bliss!

All kidding aside, many singles with pets have found it challenging to date someone who just doesn't "get" how important their pet is to them. "It's just a pet" someone will say to them. That can be a big dealbreaker in a relationship for a pet lover.

Check out AnimalAttraction to connect with other singles just as crazy about their budgie, lizard, fish...or other beloved pet as you are. Just like my grandmother always said, there's a lid for every pot!

Happy Chinese New Year

2009-01-25T13:03:00.000-08:00

Monday is New Year in the Chinese calendar. 2009 is the Year of the Ox!

Those born under the Year of the Ox has excellent leadership qualities, are very faithful and dependable. On the negative side, they can be just a bit too stubborn....well, kind of like an ox!

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year! Remember those lucky red envelopes!

Cellphone novels: a unique new way to read books!

2009-01-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

I've been reading about cellphone novels. Have you heard of these? You can actually read a novel not only over your cellphone - but written BY someone using their cellphone to create it! This absolutely amazes me. Cellphones have such tiny keypads, you need to be really determined to write a cellphone novel!

Cellphone novels first started in Japan and are also available in China. They are starting to be popular in the USA but are primarily known through Asia. The very first cellphone novel was published in Japan, in 2003 on a cell phone by online writer Yoshi called Deep Love about a teen prostitute in Tokyo. An interesting fact: In 2007, five out of the ten best selling novels in Japan were originally cell phone novels.

I found a great website if you want to write a cellphone novel and share it with others. You can write your cellphone novel and then load it onto Textnovel and then people can read it. This is a great opportunity for new writers - as just about everyone these days has a cellphone and certainly most use them for more than just making telephone calls!

Great Craft Idea: Making a Yoga Mat Bag

2009-01-25T12:50:00.000-08:00

I found this unique craft project that I want to give a try: making a yoga mat bag. I love to do yoga and a custom yoga mat bag would certainly be something I'd use. Best of all, I could make a yoga mat bag for any of my buddies that would like one!

My sewing skills aren't terrific, but this project looks very straightforward. I think I'm going to try it next weekend. It says you need heavy-duty, weatherproof fabric. So a trip to the fabric store is on order!

Here are the links to two different sites that have great instructions in case you want to try this project. I'll let you know how my mat turns out! Pink of Perfection has one and so does CraftBits.

Photo credits (c) Stephanie Berghaueuser @ SXC.hu

Caffeinate Your Web Content -- My Fr*e Ebook For You!

2008-12-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

Here is a short ebook with tips on improving your web content. Caffeinate Your Web Content. These tips will help you -- whether you are writing your content yourself or working with a writer.

Web content is tricky and a bit slippery. You want your content to keep people captivated and actively engaged at your website. Fortunately -- with a little practice and enthusiasm you can discover ways to keep your visitors at your website.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I hope this ebook is useful to you as you create and organize your web content!

Photo credit with thanks to malina @ sxc.hu

What the Recession Can Teach Us About Freelancing

2008-12-05T07:53:00.000-08:00

A recession is never easy. If you've been through one before: you know just how stressful and financially challenging it can be. But if you are a freelancer of any type, your income in many ways is never dependable. Some freelancers have said to me that if you can't "make it" during a recession, then you simply aren't a successful freelancer. Well, that's a personal opinion that I won't comment on -- I think everyone needs to decide how they feel about that.

Marketing is important -- for every freelancer. In a recession, marketing is just as important as it is during other times. Reaching out to potential and current clients can only help you. Some freelancers actually like to make cold calls. Others prefer to send emails. Whatever method you choose -- choose something you are confident at and feel will work.

New opportunities exist in any economy. Some freelancers have said that their income has actually picked up during the economy. A reason for this is that some companies have gotten rid of their full time or part time employees and are turning to freelancers. There may be other factors, but opportunities do exist.

You still offer solutions to many companies. While some clients may cut back on projects saying that now isn't the right time, a freelancer may discover that they still offer the best solution to many companies. That they are in demand and that their skills are needed. This is also an ideal time to try new things and to take classes to improve their skills.

photo credit: Yoshi Aka sxc.hu

Bling Your Home Office!

2008-12-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

With the holidays coming up, your loved ones will be asking you what you'd like to receive for the holidays. There are also a ton of sales in every store -- so it is also quite easy to purchase some of your own *ahem* gifts. :)

So why not "bling" your home office a bit? When you work from home you may not have everything that a corporate environment has. You don't have a three thousand dollar color copier down the hall. Or a water cooler. But you can add some touches to make your work day much easier and you'll find that you are enjoying your work just a bit more. Isn't that what it's all about?

Air purifyer/air filter. Now this is one of my favorites. Many of us just don't realize the impurities that are in the air that we breathe. A good air purifyer/air filter to clean one room will often cost you less than fifty dollars and is worth its weight in gold. You'll have more energy and you'll find that you are getting sick less. If you have plants in that room, you'll probably also find that your plants seem perkier and happier too! Try a large office supply store or building supply place for a good deal.

Healthy treats. There is nothing wrong with working hard. There is something wrong with working so hard that you wind up eating all the wrong foods. Create your own stash of healthy treats for you to nosh on when you know the projects are going to be coming hot and heavy. You'll be glad to have healthy things like dried fruit, nuts, granola bars or other favorites to eat instead of gorging on that bag of chocolate chip cookies you picked up at the gas station. Best of all, you'll feel full of energy instead of lethargic and cranky. Invest in some healthy treats, and a nice box to hide them in!

CD player. Many work at home jobs have you feeling a bit isolated with no coworkers or other noise. It is nice to listen to the radio or some music while you work. Get a compact CD player that has a radio and add this to your work station. This is ideal as many types of music actually help you think. Research has shown that classical music actually makes you focus and think more intelligently.

Why I Love Setting Personal and Professional Goals

2008-12-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'll admit it: I'm a goal-a-holic. I love setting goals. I have all sorts of goals that I have set. From personal to professional, I've got one year, five year and even ten year goals planned out. Not like I'm anal retentive enough to plan my life out in stone. Simply that I believe firmly in the secret to success of goal setting.

So what's so cool about goal setting?

Studies have shown that very few people actually bother to set goals. Even fewer of these people go to the trouble of writing them down. But the people that do set goals and write them down quite often go on to succeed them. There is something about setting goals that seems to help send you in the very direction of your goals.

I look at my goals every week and see how close I am getting to each of them. I've even created action steps to do every week to help me reach larger goals, to help chip away at them.

One expert in goal setting to investigate further is Brian Tracy. His audios on goal setting are simply excellent and can get you very motivated about the idea of setting goals.

I encourage anyone in any stage of life and any profession to consider setting some goals. Try setting both personal and professional goals and you'll be amazed at how you begin to achieve your goals. I wish you great success towards reaching all of your goals!

photo credit: Aleksandra P. at sxc.hu

3 Challenges of Working from Home

2008-12-02T07:31:00.000-08:00

When you work from home, you often face challenges that don't occur to someone in the typical office setting. How you manage these challenges is critical to your success.

1. Office privacy. When your office is in your home, often family will come in and out of your office. Why shouldn't they? It is after all, in the home. But you'll want to keep your office well organized and sometimes files can contain confidential information. Keeping your office private is an important part of being successful at work -- and at home.

2. No noise. Let's face it, families can get noisy. When you work from home you can have typical family noise in the background when you are trying to make business calls. There are many headsets you can purchase that have mute buttons which can be helpful in keeping the atmosphere of a private office.

3. Not working around the clock. This is a temptation of the perfectionist: working seven days a week. When you work from home, it is far too easy to get a little more work done on that project after dinner or after church or just about any time. Before you realize it, you are working seven days a week! No one can keep up that type of schedule very well for a long period of time. Structured hours are more successful for more work at home professionals.

3 Ways to Make a Great Impression on Your Clients

2008-12-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

It is even more important today to make a good impression on your clients. You want your clients to feel confident doing business with you --- and especially to want to continue doing business with you and your company. Do you know what type of impression you make? Here are some tips to make a great impression on your clients.

1. Return communication quickly. No one is perfect and we all leave the office eventually! But return calls and emails as soon as you can. Even if you don't have more information, the client will appreciate you following up with them quickly.

2. Listen to your clients. There is a wonderful quaint saying that we have two ears so we can listen twice as often as we speak. This is valuable both in your professional and personal life. Learn to truly listen to your clients, as you'll discover they tell you what they want in direct and sometimes subtle ways.

3. Say "thank you" in a meaningful way to your clients on a regular basis. This can be different for every freelancer or business person. You can easily attach "thank you for your business" to your invoices as you send them out. Telling your clients that you enjoy working for them is another great way to say thank you. Providing excellent service is another ideal way to say thank you.

photo credited to: FOTOCROMO of sxc.hu

Are You Ready for Black Friday?

2008-11-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

Many shoppers simply love Black Friday? Who can blame them? There are some great bargains and deals out there for the ambitious shopper on Black Friday.

This year there are also many great online deals -- lots of websites are not only offering discounts at their websites, but are also offering free shipping. You can easily do your Black Friday holiday shopping from home.

Learn more about Black Friday shopping at http://www.slickdeals.net/ or http://www.blackfriday.info/. Both websites offer great deals for Black Friday shoppers.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T19:18:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

photo credit to: Gravity X9 from sxc.hu

Healthy Snacks for Home Office Workers

2008-10-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

I think eating healthy is so important. No matter your age or your lifestyle, it can always be improved. Our bodies are affected by what we ingest. It is critical to ingest healthy foods.

Some people say they'll "never" snack but that is unrealistic: we all snack! But healthy snacks are the best option for you. Here are some healthy snacks that are perfect for home workers. You can keep them in a jar next to your computer, or run to the refrigerator.

Container of yogurt (add a little fruit or nuts and honey)
Rice cake (add some almond butter or a little soft cheese)
Organic raw nuts (a handful is the perfect portion)
Fresh fruit (one of your BEST snack choices!!!)
String cheese (kids love this, but it also makes a great snack for adults)
Popcorn (try hot-air popped or make on the stove with olive oil for best results)

My Favorite Fr*e Virus Scanner

2008-10-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

With the big "R" (recession) looming ahead of us, many of us are looking for ways to save money. I'll share with you one of my favorite money saving tips: I use a free virus scanner and have done so for about three years. I use AVG. AVG is an excellent virus scanner and is quite easy to use.

I've been quite pleased using AVG as my virus scanner. This is a great way to save money and also to protect your computer at the same time. Sometimes I can't believe how many cool free software/shareware programs there are out there!

Send a Free Care Package To Your Marine

2008-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

I just found this cool website called Marine Parents http://www.carepackageproject.com/ that offers free care packages to combat deployed Marines. So if you have a family member or a friend that is a Marine who is combat deployed, this is a nice way to send them a care package.

You can order your care package directly from the website. Visit the website for more details.

Don't Just Do Something: Sit There

2008-10-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the best thing to do is to take a break for clarity. I've had a meditation practice for more than ten years. On good days and bad days I've meditated. I've meditated in joy and I've meditated in grief. Under great stress and when waiting for exciting news. Meditation has always helped me to keep an even keel in life.

Even short meditation can have profound effect on your life. Research has shown that beginning meditators see effect from meditation after just a single week of meditating for like ten minutes. Meditation has physical, emotional, mental and spiritual healing effects on a person. Meditation can make you look and feel much younger than you actually are. Recently I ran into someone that thought I was in my twenties: I'll just say I'm not! This isn't the first time I hear it, as a matter of fact, I hear this quite often.

So don't just "do something" -- try sitting there. It could do you great good!

Get Energy NOW!

2008-10-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

I think you can tell I like my java just a little too much. Well there are other excellent ways to ramp up your energy level when you are in need of an additional boost. Here are some easy ways to get energy now!

Drink water

Do twenty jumping jacks

Walk around the block

Open the window and breathe deeply

Breathe in peppermint essential oil

Have a cup of herbal tea

Take a twenty-minute nap (no really, a break can sometimes be the best thing for you)

Eat a snack with protien like half a sandwich or some organic nuts

Watch a funny YouTube video or listen to a joke

Talk to a friend for a few minutes

Each of these are easy things you can do -- that will instantly re-charge your batteries. You'll improve your mood, mental health and feel more energized. Try one or several to get your energy level back!

Adding New Projects

2008-10-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

Every writer knows the excitement and stress of adding new projects. When you take on a new project -- there are always little "surprises" and things that you simply can't expect that need to be taken care of. Every client needs to be treated like they #1: or they'll gladly find someone else who does. So adding a new project is something that needs to be done with delicacy and care.

Expect it to take longer. Projects take time. New projects always take longer than you expect. Add an additional twenty percent to every project's deadline when starting something new. You'll be glad you did -- it will take the sting out of any "surprise" factors that may spring up.

Relationships are always number one. Some people may be afraid to ask a question when they don't know the answer. They are scared they'll look like they were supposed to know it already -- but I'd rather take the other side of the coin. I would much rather ask the question to get the information to do the project, than to simply guess -- and to guess wrong and to royally screw something up. One project can often lead to another. But relationships are job number one, especially with a new project.

Express gratitude. This sounds kind of simple, but I always thank a client for picking me to be their writer. I'm happy to work with my clients. I know that they have their choice of writers -- and they chose me. Expressing gratitude is a good attitude to have. It does not mean grovelling or being "below" someone. Merely being thankful that they choose to work with you.

Are we on communication overload?

2008-10-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Starting my computer takes a few moment, as three different forms of IM (instant messenger) systems load and then the Internet comes up. I start each morning by checking my e-mail. Like most people I have several e-mail addresses (how did we get started on that habit by the way?).

But I started to wonder today: are we on communication overload? Do we have too many systems, too many "things" trying to get our attention? And what exactly are they saying?
My spiritual practice has led me to learn more about the gifts of silence. Spending just an hour a day in silence can really shift how you feel. I never realized that I could hear the birds singing from inside the house if I turned everything off: the television, air conditioner and other machines. Nothing sounds as happy or as pretty as the sound of birds singing, except maybe children laughing.

I love communication and communicating. As a writer I communicate everyday and create articles/copy that communicates whatever message my client intends. But some of our daily communication seems too much, it seems unnecessary. Adding the stillness and the quiet into your life truly brings peace into your heart.

I've been adding this silent hour to my day for about a week now and already feel the difference. Did you know that silence has noises all of its own? Just like hearing the birds sing, you can hear other noises of daily life with more resonance. Much better than the "ping" of an instant message that didn't need to be sent instantly or the e-mail that is just advertising something for you to buy.

Hooked on organizing!

2008-10-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make: I'm an organize-a-holic. I love to create little systems to organize things. I have my lists of things to do that I use for different purposes.So as I'm re-organizing the closet that holds my business supplies, I'm actually having fun doing this little chore. That may seem kind of odd to many people. I'm not as compulsive as Monk from his television show. But I do get just a little happier when things are in their ideal spot.Have you been to The Container Store? This is an organizer's dream come true: an entire store dedicated to the sole purpose of organzing. They have every sort of organizational box, file and container one could imagine. I get slightly light-headed just thinking about the place.I find I work better when I'm organized, I think most people do. I don't think being organized is the same for each person. Some people know exactly where that file is in a big pile of files on a chair next to their desk. Other people need things alphabetized. We're all different.

Why I'll always watch Sex and the City

2008-10-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

I know it has gone into re-run heaven, and the movie is now out "available for DVDs everywhere." But I'll always watch Sex and the City. Sex and the City was one of the funniest shows about being a single, successful woman. Each of the four women: Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda showed us different views of what being single could be. Samantha was always uber-sexual. Carrie was reluctant to commit. Charlotte only wanted to commit. Miranda wound up with a (surprise) baby and a Beta husband that was perfect for her successful career.

Each of these women eventually found their own happy ending. But each ending was different -- not a simple cookie cutter perfect. When "Big" proposed to Carrie, he asked her if she wanted a diamond ring. She said, "Just get me a really big closet." So he did!

I don't know if I'll ever have a reason to own a pair of Manolas in my casual clothing lifestyle. But the attitude of Sex and the City is fresh, fun and original. There's always a reason to watch it! Great plots and great shoes!

Message in a Bottle!

2008-10-07T13:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what happens to those messages people put in bottles?

A boy 35 years ago put a message into a bottle while on a cruise far away from his Connecticut home. That bottle has surfaced now, found by Americans vacationing in the West Indies.

The only thing I don't like about messages in a bottle is that this is adding more "stuff" to our already too-stuffed up ocean: we need a cleaner ocean. But the fun of wondering how the ocean's currents will have us communicating with someone in the near or far reaches of the earth -- in the far or distant future certainly is fascinating.

Read the entire story here: http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_10642064?source=rss_emailed

Why I'm addicted to To Do lists

2008-10-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it: I'm completely addicted to my nightly ritual of creating a To Do list for the next day. Call me a bit compulsive but I actually look forward to this little routine. I sit down with a large mug of herbal tea (usually peppermint if you're that curious) and list the things that need to get done for the day. Then I start to decide what must get done first, second, third, etc.

This process is so inspiring -- and sometimes I'll discover that I need to change around my day. Or something I thought should be #4 really should be #1 because of that e-mail I got earlier that evening that changed priorities.

The To Do list is fun for during the day because as I do things, I can cross them off my list. I LOVE crossing things off my list. Sometimes actually doing things means there are then more things to do. A project leads to another project. Or one phone call leads to another that must be made. I take notes on the list, preparing for my next To Do list.

I'm not perfect, and I've been known to cram my To Do list full of things that I couldn't possibly do in the day. I've learned from this. I've learned about my own rhythms and how I like to get thing done and what works successfully for me. My To Do lists get better over time.

Using To Do lists in conjunction with a calendar system is very useful. There is just something about writing it all down that really helps me keep track of it. Call me rudumentary but I don't think I'd ever get a Palm Pilot or other PDA. Just give me my list!

Fresh Tips for Using Keywords for Writers New to the Web

2008-10-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

Writers new to keywords sometimes feel a little intimidated by the idea of using them. But writing for the web and writing for print don't have to be all that different from each other. You actually are a more successful web writer when you use a lot of the skills you learned as a good writer for print publications/copywriter purposes. Here are some easy tips for using keywords that any writer new to keywords would appreciate:

Always write articles for people to read first: seach engines second. There are some writers that jam-pack their articles with keywords, hoping that the spiders and search engines will pick up their articles. But great content that keeps the reader coming back for more is often the stuff that does not repeat the word "jelly beans" every tenth word (that is when you are writing about jelly beans....). While you may have to use keywords a scoch more than you'd be used to as a print writer, don't go for overkill. It always backfires!

Use a keyword tool to test out the popularity of your keywords. One of the best keyword tools is Overture, where you can look up keywords and discover exactly what people are searching for. So if people are searching more for "Christmas gift" than "Christmas gifts" you know which of these keywords you'll use in the article. Better keywords will mean more people finding your article through search results.

Don't be afraid to write something truly unique. Unique content really is king on the web. People want original, fresh ideas. If this means you use keywords that are less popular -- while you may get less searches in this way -- your article may be one that gets emailed a lot to people. You may get great viral attention for your piece. So don't be afraid to write out of the box. If you've got a good idea...go with it!

Shark vs. Dog: Dog wins!

2008-10-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

You've got to love an underdog story.

I heard about this during the week -- you may have too. A dog was swimming with its owner off the coast of Florida and was pulled under by a shark. The owner, who considers the dog like a family member -- dove under and hit the shark on the neck as hard as he could. He created himself into the human battering ram! Amazingly it worked, and the shark let go of the dog and both happily swam to shore.

The rat terrier Jake needed minor looking after by a vet for the teeth marks. Owner Greg LeNoir did something miraculous -- he saved his beloved pet from a horrible death. Love is one of the strongest things that exists on the planet. When we act out of love and do things out of love, we can literally do things that we never thought we could do before. LeNoir's act shows someone doing something very scary -- going face to face with a shark and winning.

You've got to love an underdog story. An underdog story about loving an animal is even better!

Source: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/5min/story/707023.html

Please note: photo credited to Beate W of SXC, not from original story.

Hello Cupcake!

2008-10-02T13:26:00.001-07:00

Do you like cupcakes? What a question! I think everyone likes cupcakes. Cupcakes are yummy, cute and lately they are becoming works of art. In the book Hello Cupcake, the average baker -- like me --- can learn how to make some of those amazing artistic cupcakes easily. This is a great book that really takes you step by step through the cupcake making process.

These cupcakes are very inventive. There are cupcakes for every holiday and lots of rather unique cupcakes. One of my favorites in the books are the alien cupcakes, the bright green aliens sit in their container "spaceships" waiting to be eaten. I think they are made by stacking a donut hole or mini cupcake ontop of a regular size cupcake and then doing some other steps. Hello Cupcake makes all of these amazing cupcake feats look like the average baker can actually do them -- and I know I'm inspired to make some Halloween cupcakes to get started. But there are so many fun designs, it is hard to pick just one!

Join LinkedIn and Connect!

2008-10-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

Are you LinkedIn? http://www.linkedin.com/ is social networking for professionals at the best it can be. You can meet professionals in similar professions -- or those doing entirely different things from what you are doing. There are so many cool things about LinkedIn. Here are a couple of my favorite things about LI:

Old college friends. Easily find your old college friends through LinkedIn. You'll soon discover that many belong to LinkedIn and this is a great way to get re-connected. You can search their profiles and get caught up, discover what they've been up to.

Ask/Answer questions. This is really fun and a great way to learn. You can ask and answer questions at LinkedIn -- a great way to get to know people. There are questions within your field and then simply general professional categories like Mentoring, Job Search and Networking.

Easy to use. You'll be thrilled to see just how easy LI is to use. Send and receive messages quickly through their system. Make connections to others and "link" to them. Add and update information in your profile with just a couple of clicks. Very easy to navigate and to use.

The Secret to Remembering Birthdays -- Everytime!

2008-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

I've gotten very good at remembering birthdays over the past year and a half. Some people have wondered what my "secret" is. While there are some secrets I'll guard a little closer to my chest, this is one I'll easily share: I use BirthdayAlarm.com!

BirthdayAlarm.com is fre*e to use and when you sign up it allows you to send an email to everyone in your address book. You then ask everyone to enter their birthdays. The BirthdayAlarm.com system will send you alarms as birthdays come up (usually about two weeks in advance). This is the ideal time to get a card or package in the mail to someone. BirthdayAlarm.com sends out several alarms per birthday, so you've got little chance of forgetting a birthday now.

One of my favorite things about BirthdayAlarm.com is that people don't have to enter their birthday year. So we can all perpetually be twenty-one or nineteen or whatever suits our fancy. But we can easily celebrate these special days that come every year -- not forgetting when they fall!

http://www.birthdayalarm.com/

Get a Friendly Reminder with the Talking Alarm Clock

2008-09-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

When you are working on your computer, it can be very easy to slip into that "zone" type of feeling. You know exactly what I mean: where you are so focused on what you are doing that you forget you are supposed to pick someone up at the train station (guilty!) or it can be hard to pull away to take care of something else.

Fortunately, there is an easy and fr*ee computer tool you can use called Talking Alarm Clock. Brought to you by Cinnamon Software it is easy to download and easy to use. I've been using it for about six months and I've been very pleased with how it works.

You can program alarms to go off each day and also specific alarms for specific days to only go off once. Or alarms to only go off on Monday (i.e. run virus scanner). This is a great way to keep yourself still "in the zone" but keep every little detail on target. And pick up all of those nice people from the train station on time!

http://www.cinnamonsoftware.com/alarm_clock.htm

Support the Troops Through Any Soldier.com

2008-09-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

I don't like war -- any type of war, for any reason. But I certainly support the troops that are far from the comforts of home and their families every day as they are facing this war.

A great way to support the troops is through AnySoldier.com. You can connect with a soldier to send care packages and letters to a specific unit. This is not a pen pal program, you aren't going to be getting reliable letters back and forth -- but it can be very exciting to hear from your soldier as packages arrive and you can connect with someone that you discover you have things in common with -- and they are over there in Iraq.

Most often the requests have come to us for such simple things. Recently we were asked to send coffee to our soldiers. We were happy to do so. They have also asked for snacks or other very practical things like grooming supplies.

http://www.anysoldier.com/

Managing the Flying Monkeys

2008-09-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Many writers have to face multiple deadlines. Whenever I think of this....it reminds me of that great scene in the Wizard of Oz where the Wicked Witch of the West (East?) is surrounded by flying monkeys. Every deadline is its very own flying monkey that you have to tame and manage until submission. Fortunately there are some great tips to managing multiple projects.

Plan ahead. This sounds so simple, yet many people don't. They just plow ahead and figure if they work themselves to the bone they'll get everything done. Take some time the night before to think of your projects and write them all down. Now think of how much time each will need and what priority they should have. That's a good start.

Think also in terms of challenges. Just like the Boy Scout motto is "be prepared," any good writer is prepared for challenges to. Like when you have to get ahold of someone -- remember that they could be busy at the time you think you can catch them. Tricky things like that can often take twice as long as we estimate they will. Call people in the beginning of the day so you can call them again. Better yet, send them an email the night before saying why you need to get ahold of them. Sometimes this makes your call go through much easier.

Give yourself a break. Now this one sounds funny, but it is my absolute top tip. When you are working on a lot of projects -- make sure to give yourself a break. Take lunch or another type of mid-day break to refresh yourself. Take a walk outside. Have coffee or tea breaks during the day. Quite often a very short break will give you a nice energy burst and you'll go back to your project even more energized than before!

What's Your Favorite Personal Symbol?

2008-09-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

There is a great book The Hidden Meaning of Symbols. It talks about how there are many symbols in our lives that we just don't realize. Why, there are probably symbols in your life -- if you just open your eyes. Think for a moment....what images keep appearing in your life? What things do you "always" love no matter what? Do you collect something? Then that's probably a symbol for you of some kind.

One of my favorite symbols is the double rainbow. It is the symbol for double happiness. I've always thought that double happiness could never been too much of a good thing! Who could resist double happiness? A rainbow is certainly beautiful and while fleeting, is an amazing thing to see in the sky. That's part of what makes a double rainbow so much more special and amazing. Kind of like that double happiness!

What I love about the Best Bagger Championships

2008-09-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

Recently I heard about a local supermarket qualifying for the Best Bagger Championship. Well, I should correct that. The BBC is the national competition you see. The local supermarket qualified for the New York State competition held in November. I think this is just fantastic!

A little competition is a good thing. Let's face it: we all love competing with each other in a fun way. 5k races, work competitions and other ways to show you are the "best" are great ways to compete with each other.

It's a chance to push yourself. Many people don't think of a supermarket checker as a position where you really "push yourself" but I'd beg to differ: that's a real people person type of position. You also have to work well under pressure. And let's not forget that everyone wants their bags packed perfectly and as quick as a bunny! This competition honors the checkers that are the best.

Everybody loves a winner. It's fun to win....just about anything. To be the best at something that you do everyday for work is a really cool thing. I think the Best Bagger Competition is a creative way to encourage checkers and baggers around the country to be the best at what they do everyday. They could win a trip to Las Vegas, to the national competition in February! http://www.nationalgrocers.org/SpecialPrograms/BestBagger.html

Are You Watching Lipstick Jungle?

2008-09-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

Every season I try to connect with a new television show. This season I've started watching Lipstick Jungle. They sure have an active plot! I think I'm going to have to watch some of last season to catch up on the story line.

Lipstick Jungle is based on the book by Candace Bushnell and is about the challenges of four successful women in New York City. After her success with Sex and the City, this television show promises to be quite successful and popular with women.

It is nice to see Brooke Shields appearing in such a great show. You can watch episodes of Lipstick Jungle online at http://www.nbc.com/Lipstick_Jungle/

Get Interviewed and Help A Reporter Out!

2008-09-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

There is a great website I've stumbled upon while reading other blogs called Help A Reporter Out http://helpareporter.com/ . If you are an expert of any type and hope to be interviewed by the media, this is a very interesting place to visit. If you are a reporter looking for great sources, this is also a great website to check out. The website connects reporters and sources -- so they can get great stories out to the public.

It is my understanding that experts can register at this website. What a great way for reporters to find you for that story they are working on!

So if you have a desire to be in the public eye, look to Help A Reporter Out -- and you could find yourself in front of a television camera, print journalist or other media interview!

How Starbucks Saved My Life

2008-09-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of How Starbucks Saved My Life? This personal memoir by Michael Gates Gill is about a former ad exec who used to make six figures -- and he winds up getting a job at Starbucks. I haven't read the book, but just ordered it from Amazon.com. I'm interested to learn about Gill's experiences with Starbucks.

I really enjoyed Howard Schultz' memoir Pour Your Heart Into It. Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks has great passion for his company. It also seems to me that Starbucks is a real "community" type of place that cares about their employees. I was impressed to learn that they give health benefits to even their part-time employees.

I just got an e-mail about Gill reading from his personal memoir in my area and it sounds like an interesting evening. I think once I read his book I'll know if I want to attend the event for sure.

photo (c) Malina of SXC

It's Easy To Love Fall

2008-09-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Fall is an easy season to love. You can tell that fall is here, not just by the turning of the calendar pages but by how cool it gets at night. It is so nice to open your windows just a bit and let that cool air in. You can hear all of the wonderful "night sounds" and smell the fresh fall season as it comes.

I've already got my sweaters lined up like soldiers, waiting for duty in my closet. It hasn't quite been cold enough to take them out and wear them. Everyone here is still wearing short sleeved shirts. A certain sign of an Indian summer. But Indian summer is coming to a close as colder weather enters not only our day but also our nights. Looking up at the trees we see the leaves are gently turning colors. You can see reds, oranges, golds all peeking through the leafy green and browns.

photo (c) Crystal Woroniuk

Is Instant Message Convenient.....or Excessive?

2008-09-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

At this point I think I have four different forms of instant messenger to speak with clients, friends and other people in my life that have said they "need" to get ahold of me in this way.

But is instant messenger convenient...or excessive? Does instant message replace email or the telephone -- or it is just another form of communication. Some people seem to really like to use IMs, as you can connect with anyone at anytime -- but there are times an IM can be hard to accept. When you are working on another project that is due.....you simply cannot take an IM for someone else.

Then there are some that won't use IM at all. They don't like it. Personally while I'm not a big fan of IM, there have been times I've been relieved to have IM available to ask a quick question or to get ahold of someone that is truly un-get-ahold-able. I view it as a side dish, more than a main course.

It seems that different people like various forms of communication. Some truly prefer the one-on-one that you'll only get from the telephone. Others like to send emails back and forth. And still others seem to enjoy the IM as it combines the benefits of phoning and emailing into one form of communication.

What are your thoughts? Is IM convenient....or excessive?

Pumpkins Are Busting Out Everywhere!

2008-09-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

I just love fall. Love it. It's one of my favorite season. Okay, we only have four of them to pick from....but I'd have to say that fall is one of my top two. I think oddly enough winter is my very favorite season. Now ask me that again as I'm shovelling out from a twenty-inch snowstorm this winter!

I knew fall was finally here not only as we passed the recent Equniox, but when the pumpkins started to show up at the grocery store! There are beautiful, bountiful pumpkins absolutely everywhere.

So I brought several of these lovely pumpkins home and they are now lining the walkway to the house. The perfect fall greeting for everyone that visits us. Pumpkins are my sign of fall....what's yours?

Allure Beauty Box Available Tommorow

2008-09-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

Big excitement for fall....tommorow the Allure Beauty Box is available! This is a time when you can get a whole box of yummy beauty goodies for only $35 plus shipping charges.

These boxes by Allure always, always, always sell out -- so if it appeals to you -- be sure to get in the ordering line early. They start going on sale online tommorow at twelve noon.

I tried ordering the summer's Safe in the Sun Allure box at 12:30pm and they were sold out by then. This is a great beauty bargain with wonderful treats any woman would enjoy!

Love to Brainstorm? Try Idea Lottery!

2008-09-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to do a little brainstorming, then you should try Idea Lottery. http://www.ideachampions.com/idea_lottery.shtml By Idea Champions, the Idea Lottery will help you brainstorm just about any idea you have. I've used this brainstorming tool for so many ideas.

Idea Champions has a number of creative thinking tools at their website that you can try. But Idea Lottery remains my favorite. I think it is fun and helps you come up with great ideas for personal and professional brainstorming.

Do you Skype?

2008-09-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

I just joined Skype today at a client's request. Do you Skype? I think this is amazing technology. To be able to talk over our computers. Very cool. I'll be talking to folks in other time zones -- but I think you can even call your regular local calls with it. I'll have to check. You can see just how new to Skype I am. Perhaps those of you that are more Skype-savvy can explain all of this to me.

I remember when I was a child and we used to not have answering machines (am I dating myself?) Then I think when I hit about 8, the answering machine came out. But before that, when people called and they didn't reach you -- they just plain old had to call back! It is amazing to think of all of this technology we have at our fingertips that we take for granted. The technology that has sprung up so quickly. The cell phones, pagers and other devices. Personally, I'm very entertained by talking to someone over a web cam -- so you can see them and they can see you. That can be fun to do with an old college room mate you haven't seen in awhile. It's always nice to see a familiar face. Then again it also means you have to make sure you have cleaned up the room, because it is like having company over!

So I'm looking forward to using Skype. I have several friends and friendly clients that like it a lot and I've heard great things about it. It sort of makes me wonder what new technology we'll be using next year?

Why I Love Staples New Look

2008-09-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

Have you been to Staples lately? Yes, it chock-full of kids looking for their school supplies. But once the under four-feet high crowd starts to die down, notice the fun new looks for home office supplies. Have you seen the circular bins where you can pick your own thumbtacks, paperclips or binder holders? These fun, funky and cool designs instantly perk up your office. You can get a small container or a nice large container of these much-needed supplies.

To further "bling" out your office, check out the file folders and the thumbtacks in packs. I've even seen matching staplers that look really cool. While the idea of a completely matching office just makes my head spin a little too much, I must say that I like my antique typewriter key thumbtacks on my corkboard for my home office. I think they look funky and cool -- and of course they are functional thumbtacks.

Staples was selling the "Easy" buttons, but those seemed to run out rather quickly in my area. Grab an "Easy" button if they have them in your area!