You might only have one chance to make the right not write impression.

Kindle

Thursday, December 12, 2013

On the Move Again...

Time to re-locate!  Preparing to move again across America to sunny So-Cal.  As always, keep me in prayer those of you who know me.  I am very happy with our family's latest decision.  Here we go!

Check out past photos of our So-Cal experiences.  Walking and riding around Los Angeles County and yes, we saw a deer near a busy neighborhood with little undisturbed land, that's why it was so surprising!







Tuesday, December 3, 2013

The Work has Begun on Yet Another Site...

I didn't anticipate recording audio and video related to my spiritual experiences, the Bible, and societal observations of the saved and unsaved for literally years now.  But after being around sincere believers in Christ for a time while visiting loved ones in Pittsburgh back in 2009, I felt spiritually charged and I haven't come down, I seem to be elevating for every trial I go through both on and offline.

What is it about a faith that makes one feel like he or she is on top of the world one minute and down in the mirk and mire the next?  How does a belief in a Creator you can't relate to, like human beings, make you want to do some things differently in your life?  I needed a place to lay my thoughts down like one lays his or head.  Sometimes audio and video just can't capture those little things that hit home.  There is work in reading--the kind of work that auditory and visual learners need in order to come up higher in their personal walks with Jesus.

So I am working on a project that shares thoughts about walking with the world renowned Holy One that many confuse with the god of this world, Satan/Lucifer, so I've heard in the spiritual realm.    In the future, I will share the link on this site God willing.  But for now, sisters and brothers who are strong in your faith and participating in similar Kingdom business, be in prayer for my family and I.

God bless.

Nicholl

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Self-published Author Writing/Editing for Others

This is something that I have never stopped doing, writing for others.  Whether my name appears in the by-line or I am a ghost writer for someone who needs Internet content or desires to write a book, I love writing so I keep doing it. 

My focus these days has been on providing relationship content and journaling for family.  However, the beginning of the new year will slow down immensely for me, so I have my eyes open for future partnerships.

If you are an individual or business in need of a writer to supply online or offline content, feel free to email me at nichollmcguire@gmail.com.  Also check my Work Experience page on this site and visit Linked In (I was recently married so I am Nicholl Lewis at that site.)

I look forward to a bright and prosperous future for all my connections!  Thanks for stopping by my page!

Nicholl McGuire

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Tyus Ties Family Book

For those who didn't know, I completed the Tyus family book with zero issues spring of 2013!  Very happy with the outcome.  Everyone involved was forthcoming with information, obtained some great photos, and I was able to complete the whole project within a month.  When everyone works together, everything comes together--much appreciated!

My grandfather was Allen Tyus originally from Alabama, but relocated to Pennsylvania during a time of heavy segregation.  He had a bit of mystery about himself, so I started digging and found out that he had his mother's maiden name, but that his father's last name was Pyers.  Although this book is not available for public view, relatives are welcome to contact me if they are interested in purchasing it. 

Anyway, it was a great project, I thought I would have stopped doing family memoirs after the Growing Up McGuire book, but good things happen to those who wait!  If you are interested in talking about your family project, feel free to comment or send email to: nichollmcguire@yahoo.com

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Peterson Family Stories

Another family book worth mentioning to those who are related to me.  I have been working on this project on and off during 2013.  I have interviewed relatives and collected various information about them. 

Peterson is the last name of my grandmother.  She was born in a family of 20.  Her father was Arthur Peterson and mother Mamie Littles of Alabama.  My motivation for putting this book together was after years of listening to the good, bad and ugly concerning this family, I thought, "Why keep the stories and life lessons to myself?"  Thus, another book has been created to pass on to my children.  To be quite honest, I just don't want any kissing cousins!  If you are interested in someone heading your family tree project, for the right price, we can talk!  See my blog pages to find out more about who I am and what I do to help individuals and businesses.  Thanks for stopping by!

Monday, October 21, 2013

Hardcover with Image Wrap Books



I posted this video for those who have purchased books from me in the past.  When I send links out, you have options of what type of book you would want to purchase from me.  The representative at Blurb, featured in this video, explains in detail what Hardcover Image Wraps look like.  This way you can get an idea of what you want before it arrives.  Thanks as always for your support!  Below are links to my books on Blurb.  (Please note: family books are not available for public viewing, you will have to contact me if you are a relative in order to review.  As always, I have a limit to how long I am making family related books available.)  Click the links below: 

Poetry

Floral Beauty on A Dead End

Spiritual Poems by Nicholl

Journals

My Business Plan

What Can I Say About My Job?

My Prayer and Fasting Journal

Check out others on site by clicking here, thanks for stopping by!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Nicholl shares recordings on VoiceBase.com

With so many recordings, sometimes there isn't enough time to organize them, create something interesting with them, or even distribute them, so I needed a place to back up some of my work and then share as needed.  Voicebase provided me with such a place.  You can find some of my spiritual recordings there, feel free to listen while you surf the Internet:

God Helps Us to Become Better People

Forgiveness

God Opens Our Eyes to Errors

Hagar and Sarah

Thursday, October 10, 2013

From Virtual to Reality...

One day you are going to meet some of these people you see online and when you do you will be either impressed, disappointed or eager to make friends.  For me, I had butterflies in my stomach seeing some people I hadn't seen in years offline, were online and vice versa.  At times I was excited, other times not-so much, funny how memories not only show up in your mind, but those negative feelings tend to accompany them as well. 
 
If you would like to connect with me, Nicholl McGuire, feel free to connect with me:
 

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Nicholl's Video of Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh 2013, Youtube

 
Traveling through the Pittsburgh area brought back some childhood memories this past summer.  Enjoy video!
 
Check out more videos by Nicholl at http://www.youtube.com/nmenterprise7

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Nicholl is in Columbus GA sharing books - Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate and Laboring to Love Myself

October is domestic violence awareness month.  Nicholl has been writing and talking about her books, Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate and Laboring to Love Myself.  She is available for speaking engagements in the Columbus, Georgia area this month.  If you are interested in more information about this author and poet, click on the pages on this site and also send inquiries to her personal email: nickymcguire1@yahoo.com

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Been Facebook Free for Over a Year--YEAH!



Someone not that long ago was looking for me on Facebook.  I laughed, so glad to be free of it.  It forced her to have to look me up in other places, "Wow!" she said.  "I didn't know you were involved with so much...do you think you can help me with..."  There are plenty of sites besides Facebook--support them!

Thursday, September 19, 2013

More Tidbits about Working from Home

Increase Your Social Presence

There is the person you are offline and then there is the person you are online or maybe you are simply the same both on and off. But whoever you are, you have got to promote your product and service in such a way that people can connect with you in a personal way depending on what you are selling.

When I sold Avon, I got many sales because I made myself available to the public. I introduced myself through word of mouth, fliers and other traditional forms of advertising. Rather than just sell a product, you are selling yourself! What is it about you that makes you different? If I am seated in your presence, what am I going to come away with that is memorable and will make me want to get to know more of you?

Sometimes I used my mother side, my wife side, my "back in the day" side, etc. depending on the day, time, season, connection to sell a product or service for not only myself, but those I worked for too.

My biggest sales came from those who could connect with me. You have to ask yourself, "Who am I online when I am at this forum, hub page, social networking site, etc.?" People can help you determine that based on how many page views, likes, comments and more you are receiving for your best work, experience, stories, etc. Find out who you are and the rest will follow!
Start by increasing your social presence.

Learn more here.

Writing from Home and Getting Paid is Legitimate

I have personally wrote from home and received extra cash to pay some small bills since 2007. I was skeptical at first, but realized very quickly there was potential to make money writing from home if I stuck with it.
I started searching the Internet looking for paid writing gigs. I visited forums, blogs and other places where people either sang praises about certain companies or cursed about them.
So start with forums, then type in your keywords in search engines and then visit some writers' blogs for further insight.

Learn more about my writing experiences and resources on this blog, Nicholl McGuire.

Helpful Resources

How to Make Money From Your Business Clutter | Entrepreneur.com

Business START-UP-GUIDE

Get Money for your Business or Idea | How Make Money, Start Business, & Live Best Life

 8 ways to boost your income now- MSN Money

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

My Experience Returning to Online Selling Using eBay and Amazon back in 2012

I wanted to start back to making some additional money using auction sites like eBay and an online market place like Amazon selling various consumer electronics. Since I had years of prior experience utilizing these avenues in the past, I thought that it would be good for me to return to roots that were familiar. But the game had changed a great deal over the years, and it was actually becoming harder to make some serious cash to pay off bills (notice I didn’t say make a payment on a bill!) So I decided to share some of my experiences selling electronics online.

I opened accounts with both Amazon and eBay. What I didn’t do that I had done in the past was use my personal name to build a business. I wanted to keep personal me from business me and that is why I went with this plan. However, what I didn’t do was create a separate email that wasn’t in my name for PayPal purposes and I encourage anyone who wants to sell online to do this. Also, you will want to do business from a business address and not your home address. Although you may think no one will ever come to visit since many buyers are out of town, that doesn’t mean that they won’t. I read a story where a buyer sent the police to a seller’s home when his merchandise hadn’t been received! A bit extreme, but he got his merchandise without another delay! So your seller, email, and PayPal account should not have your personal name, but a business name and your mailing address should be for business purposes.

The next thing I noticed, was that the fees had also changed significantly to sell items. I took note of the fee changes at both sites and read up on policies to ensure that I wouldn’t be short any cash or have to deal with any violations in the future when I started selling. I also took the time to read what other sellers’ experiences had been in the forums. I quickly learned that many were disgruntled about the fees and that if I planned on selling an item under $10 and hoped to make a decent profit – it wouldn’t happen!

I also checked with the post office on getting boxes, I searched for sales on bubble envelopes, tape, labels, and other office supplies since I knew what types of things I would be selling, and I also checked around the house for anything I could start selling to get me reacquainted with the whole process again and to build up my positive feedback. Since I didn’t have much I would be selling from home, I didn’t bother with accepting those offers that came into the mail for a free postal scale and the convenience of shipping from home. I reasoned that I could use the exercise and a nice walk pushing my granny cart or a stroller with my boxes down the street--that would be good enough!
One of the problems I experienced with selling on eBay was buyer responses. Although they were often positive, there was one or two who may have had higher expectations of what the product should have looked like.

Now a couple of my Amazon issues were damage during the shipping process. So what I did to fix those issues was buy a better digital camera, took more photos of the products in various angles and learned more about using video to help with my sales. I think video is exceptional since a buyer can’t argue with you about whether or not an electronic worked prior to shipping, how it works, the way the item was packaged, or anything else that they can clearly see in the video. When it came to this issue about a product being damaged during shipping, I found that unless you encourage the buyer to pay for insurance, you will be refunding the money out of your pocket. Since Amazon doesn’t have this option, you have no choice but to refund them the money. I also found that if buyers had any remorse about the item, if it didn’t work, they wanted an exchange, or some other problem occurs, if you don’t accommodate them no matter if you suspect they are lying, they can file a claim against you and Amazon will keep you out of business and hold up your money until it is resolved.

It is overall better to have your own website; therefore, you can create your own policies and have access to your money so that you can help other customers. But for newbies, get your feet wet, working with an existing company.

I noticed that you can’t market your own website using these sites unless you place something about your business in the packages that you sent out. This is a key opportunity for you to grow your business and gain repeat business--use Amazon and eBay like they use you! Create professional flyers and business cards in advance and include them in anything going out of your products, services, causes, etc.

Using promotions like "buy one get one" or giveaways doesn’t work well especially on Amazon, because if you have a dissatisfied customer he or she may say something to cause others to not want to participate in your promotion so keeping those special deals separate from your Amazon or eBay business is much better. This way your disgruntled customer will not sabotage your efforts to obtain more business.

Also, feedback can make or break your business especially if you don’t defend your actions. I never allowed anyone to say something on my site without an explanation. I also was careful to have my policies clearly outlined prior to posting my products. So if you don’t accept returns on used electronics say so. If you have a 10-14 business day window when it comes to handling complaints then make that known. I didn’t hide what my policies were and I didn’t change them in the midst of a controversy for my own selfish gain either.

I would definitely recommend an assistant when your business seems to be picking up. Someone should handle the customer service emails while someone else handles the trips to the post office. What you don’t want is one person trying to do it all, because your frustration can easily be communicated in your emails to your customers. You also don’t want to start this business with no emergency money in your account. For instance, let’s say that you have to refund a customer, exchange a product, and purchase additional items which all of these things happened to me all at the same time, mind you! If you don’t have any money put away from these kinds of unexpected issues, it can set your business back, so be prepared for those sudden surprises!

Lastly, be sure you know how to determine your profit for tax purposes. You may realize that after you do the math on the fees, the supplies, and the product itself that there is no profit left over, if so then you'll want to cut your losses early and try another product to sell. It is very easy to get so many orders in for something that you lose sight of your credits and debits. I remember one product I sold I was able to make a decent profit the first day I posted it, but by the next day I was losing money! That happens so often on the Internet, because just when you think that you have a great product to sell someone else is posting it for dollars cheaper than you!

To your success!

Nicholl McGuire

Useful Tips on Working from Home

Think about journaling each day what it is that you do when working from home.  I find that keeping notes and resources near my computer in a neat space keeps me on task.  I avoid spending much time doing other things when I see what needs to be done right in front of me (ie. talking on the phone, surfing the Internet...)
 
Home Business Reviews

I needed to keep track of all my research when searching for home business opportunities, so I created a site sometime ago that has information for anyone who would like to learn more about a variety of home businesses.

I am not one of those people who like to look for just one business opportunity, but I like to see many all at once. When I created my blog, I joined with others to bring my readers some of the best reviews on the web about some old businesses you may already know about and some new ones that you may have never heard of.

I can tell you that there are far too many businesses selling health and beauty products, but I learned that the reason for this is they work. They are saleable. Women drive the market when it comes to buying cosmetics and health-related products.

Home Income Study on Twitter - a site I maintain. @homeincomestudy

Twitter site provides interesting tid-bits of information as it relates to the home business industry as well as some fun things offered periodically from our partner sites!  Feel free to follow us today!

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Believers

We stand.
We hope.
We dream.
We create.
We love.
We sacrifice.
We cry.
We scream.
We fight....
for what we lost,
the love, peace, trust, money, and dreams.
They tell us we can't, we won't,
but we will!
Whether we walk on our own
or carried in death our spirit always lives.


Nicholl McGuire
Watch inspirational videos at http://www.youtube.com/nmenterprise7
Read more poems at http://spiritualpoemsbynicholl.blogspot.com

Friday, September 13, 2013

Nicholl shares thoughtful commentary on Godtube

If you haven't stopped by Godtube, take a moment to check out videos there.  Nicholl  periodically uploads videos sharing her personal experiences with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ on that site too.

Enjoy!


Enemy Attack on a Spiritual Gift from virtualassistant on GodTube.

Don't have a study bible? Get one...Study with Nicholl http://bit.ly/J0wyop

Nicholl is the author of the following books:

Know Your Enemy: The Christian's Critic https://www.createspace.com/3437273
When Mothers Cry https://www.createspace.com/3393499
Laboring to Love Myself https://www.createspace.com/3401526
Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate https://www.createspace.com/3332346
Floral Beauty on a Dead End Street http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/904839
Spiritual Poems By Nicholl http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3113926

Great Gift World - Electronics for sharp minds

Nicholl has been affiliated with Amazon for awhile now.  She has put together a site with specially selected electronics for those of you who need items for those digital cameras, iphones, camcorders, printers, computers/laptops and more.  See here: http://bit.ly/yONZCH

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Bible Study and Commentary on YouTube Channel: Nmenterprise7 Increasing

With so many messages given to me through much prayer and meditation these past two years by my Creator, I realize just how important it is to share the gospel of Christ, help others through personal stories and life lessons.  Those with dark messages work hard to keep lies going.  God's people must work even harder to keep truth alive! 

It is no coincidence that you stopped here today, do be the positive example that someone in your family can be proud of.  With that said, expect more messages of uplift, rebuke, and more on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7.

Below is an example of some of the subject matter on the channel. Deceased Loved Ones



Nicholl McGuire

Monday, August 5, 2013

Nicholl Interviews with Popular Pittsburgh Radio Show Host About When Mothers Cry

On Sunday, August 4, Nicholl spoke with Chris Moore of the Chris Moore Show on KDKA 1020 AM about her book, When Mothers Cry.  The author, poet and mother of four shared some of her personal challenges and observations of other parents who can't seem to cope with being a parent.  While Nicholl spoke, her parents, Erlene and Nick looked on and listened intently to their daughter's experiences.  You can read more and listen to broadcast here.

Friday, August 2, 2013

Nicholl will be on Gospel Excellence, Blog Talk Radio with Bobbie D

You may have heard some of her work on Youtube, Author/Poet Nicholl McGuire is sharing her faith and personal spiritual experiences on Gospel Excellence, Blog Talk Radio hosted by Bobbie D. Tune in on Wednesday at 5 p.m. 

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Saturday, July 13, 2013

A listing of some of Nicholl's popular books and blogs

Nicholl is the author of the following books:

Know Your Enemy: The Christian's Critic https://www.createspace.com/3437273

When Mothers Cry https://www.createspace.com/3393499

Laboring to Love Myself https://www.createspace.com/3401526

Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate https://www.createspace.com/3332346

Floral Beauty on a Dead End Street http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/904839

Spiritual Poems By Nicholl http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3113926

Some of Nicholl's blogs:

Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate

http://laboringtoloveanabusivemate.blogspot.com

When Mothers Cry

http://whenmotherscry.blogspot.com

Parents, Babies and Children (for families who have them all!)

http://parentsbabieschildren.blogspot.com

Home Organizing

http://organizerhome.blogspot.com

Things to Do When Bored

http://thingstodobored.blogspot.com





Saturday, July 6, 2013

Nicholl returns to acting

Nicholl recently participated in an open call audition for a television commercial. She says of her experience, "Although I didn't get a callback.  I was very excited to meet other actors and get my feet wet once again when it comes to auditioning."  She adds, she was very happy to make connections with a reputable talent agency.  Nicholl says she will continue to pursue acting as a profession despite her extensive background in creative writing.  She says, "Acting found me again and I accepted.  A strong desire to take a vacation from self is what is motivating me to act again.  Who knows where this path will lead me this time?" 

The author and poet has shared her talent with novice directors and playwrights over the years and has also participated in her own online projects.   If you seek an actress for your upcoming project, Nicholl is available for short film, commercials, and voice overs.  Feel free to send her an email at: nichollmcguire@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Nicholl McGuire First Television Interview in Pittsburgh PA

On June 17, 2013, Nicholl made an appearance on a television news talk show entitled, Impact, that airs on Channel 11, WPXI in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania on Sunday mornings.  The author and poet talked about her experience being in an abusive relationship when she was 21 years old.  She also shared information to look out for when dating someone abusive.  Details when the show airs will be forthcoming.  Stay tuned!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Downtown Pittsburgh Revisited - Buildings Worth a Look 2013



One place I enjoy walking and working, downtown Pittsburgh.  Located in Pennsylvania, the many historic buildings, hustle and bustle of people, peaceful sceneries, and culture makes this place one of my favorites!  Enjoy the video and watch others!

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Poetry is in her bones, Spiritual Love Poet Nicholl McGuire

From the beautiful sonnets of the great writers of yesteryear to the simplistic rhymes of rappers' about their hometown experiences, Nicholl was inspired at a very young age to share her observations and feelings with others via poetry.  Life lessons show up in this award winning writer's rhymes--the pain and gain of just living. 

If you are unfamiliar with this spiritual love poet from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, a city of winners (just ask any Steeler fan,) then you just might be missing out on a good thing!

View Spiritual Poems by Nicholl  here.

Then check out Love Poetry by Nicholl here.

Do keep in mind, Nicholl's work is copyright protected.  She is a published poet and nonfiction author of several books. She would like for her readers (including family members and friends) to give her "credit where credit is due" when sharing her work.

If you know Ms. Nicholl, read her work or know someone who has, won't you make a purchase a today?  Just follow links below and your book will be sent as soon as possible by the wonderful staff at Createspace.  Thank you on behalf of Nicholl McGuire Media!

Know Your Enemy: The Christian's Critic https://www.createspace.com/3437273
When Mothers Cry https://www.createspace.com/3393499
Laboring to Love Myself https://www.createspace.com/3401526
Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate https://www.createspace.com/3332346
Floral Beauty on a Dead End Street http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/904839
Spiritual Poems By Nicholl http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/3113926

Monday, May 6, 2013

Relocations, Family Visits and Jobs

Nicholl enjoys relocations, visiting family and friends, working short and long term jobs, and learning more about interesting people, places and things.

The mother of four shares family trips and tips on Youtube as well.  Whether you are interested in vacationing or relocating, Nicholl has some links on that site that just might help you out.  Enjoy!

Youtube channel: budgettraveltips

Curious about moving to San Diego or Los Angeles?  Listen to Ms. McGuire's personal experience here.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Nicholl recently uploaded a three-part spiritual video on YouTube

For those who claim to be Christ followers, but aren't doing much lately to exemplify one's faith,  Nicholl provides a study, commentary and rebuke while referring to Psalm 36.

 
Nicholl reading Psalm 36, click here.

Nicholl updated some sites on Hub Pages - Check them out!

Nicholl enjoys writing about a number of topics.  From relationship woes to spiritual poetry, you will find some additions at her site on Hub Pages, one of her most popular blogs is seen here:

 
 
Check out Nicholl's profile: nmcguire7 here.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Author Nicholl McGuire Speaks Out About Motherhood Issues

Just in time for Mother's Day...the best gift you can give a mother is some understanding and needed time alone, enjoy the videos!

Stepmotherhood



Societal Ills


Friday, March 29, 2013

Operating on Fumes? Feed Off of Others People's Energy

Tired, angry, bored, bitter, mad at the awful world and everyone in it, huh?  Well, no need to stay in that frame of mind unless of course you know how to redirect your attention on what is fueling your fire and then churn all of your emotions and tasks into one big burst of positivity!

Sounds difficult?  Not exactly.  After spending some time in the presence of a doctor who had worked from sun up to sun down dealing with babies, toddlers and children, I learned what kept a smile, some patience, and a positive spirit on him (besides prayer and having a personal faith) and that was the energy of others.  He chose to focus on what others were going through and turn their energy into something positive for himself.  He was charged on every story, emotion, and action of others.  As a result, he was like the energizer rabbit he kept going and going and going...

Some of us could use that "peace that surpasses all understanding," as the Bible puts it, in our own lives.  Despite all the drama that is going on in and around us, we can use others' story-telling, reactions, and actions to be the best that we possible can!  Like the optimistic doctor, we too can feed off of the good, bad and ugly and create something beneficial for ourselves. 

When I think of the great prophet/teacher/friend/son of God, Jesus, I think of how He took on all of our negativity and made it something great, not only for his self, but for the world and the heavens above!

To God be the glory!

Nicholl McGuire

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Friend Feed

In the past I connected with people on Friend Feed.  Although this network isn't as large as the more popular sites, it is just as professional.  I stick with this site because I like its simplicity and convenience--I have it linked to other accounts.  If you are interested in joining another social media site, then do try Friend Feed.  Check it out here and feel free to subscribe to my latest news feeds.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Just a Little Something...

It is rare that I find something so simple, yet so moving!  This link is just a friendly reminder to take one day at a time and while you are doing that it outlines some things that we seriously need to do!  Let this link be a blessing to you and yours and please share.  The writer is no longer with us, but his words live on!

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/6sUsYz/:C5.g3ZKD:87lt3y$2/www.katinkahesselink.net/other/today.html/

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

For My Writer Friends...

I thought you might be interested in two writer sites I have been following for years via email.

The first is Nick's Writing Blog.  He shares interesting tips related to the publishing industry and his personal experiences and his site has a freelance board.  Learn more here.

The second is Trent Steele's WriteStreet.com.  On this site you will not only find useful publishing tools to help you improve your writing skills and create your best work, but there is also a forum where you can meet fellow writers like yourself!

Both sites have partnered with one another.  Definitely worth checking out!


Thursday, February 7, 2013

7 Things You Worry About When You Shouldn't

Ever feel yourself getting upset over the littlest of things?  Do you often worry about things that end up not even being a big deal?  Why do we bother over issues that really are meaningless and will not help us or our families if we choose to waste time and money concerning them.

One.  Worrying over things beyond your control like incidents that happen on the job, at home and elsewhere.

Sometimes things happen unexpectedly and so situations like this are inevitable.  Of course, you want things to run smoothly, but we don't always get what we want in life.  Mistakes happen, people lose their cool, get sick, and leave.  Cursing, crying, and bad-mouthing about those people and things we can't control is going to accomplish what?  A negative energy that comes from you and then infects anyone you comes in your presence.

Two.  People we don't like.

You might worry over someone or a group that you don't like finding out that you don't like them.  So you worry that your negative mannerisms or words are going to get back.  If so, then what?  You are going to worry about coming up with a lie or something else to cover up your feelings?  People who are unlikeable really don't care too much what others think. 

Three.  The price of things fluctuating.

A guy on the radio alerts you to yet another inflated price on something that should be cheap.  A woman warns you about losing money on a stock.  Meanwhile, you don't typically buy any of these things.  So why are you so concerned?  Oh that's right, because someone has convinced you that you should be.  Can we say, brainwashing?

Four.  Death.

It's unfortunate that yet another person has died in your family, but some people just want to use a tragic situation to start trouble and get you to worry.  For instance, a relative wants you to come to a funeral.  But you can't make it, so you tell him or her.  He or she doesn't sound so understanding about your absence.  You don't like his or her reaction, so now you worry whether or not your relative will still be nice to you.  To make matters worse, another relative calls to tell you that a certain disease runs in your family, and "You better...and you might want to..."  So you start thinking about what he or she said over and over again.  When your body has a minor setback, whenever that might be, are you going to worry yourself to death about it?

Five . Someone else's illness.

Not your body, so why are you worrying yourself sick?  The person doesn't listen to advice, doesn't want help, and makes excuses, not your problem.

Six.  Wild animals, crazy insects and the boogie man coming to get you and your family.

So you heard a report about something crazy in the forest and you also became captivated over a photo on the Internet with a caption that read, "Their here."  Now what?  You spread the word all over the place upsetting people about something that you don't even know is true or not because you didn't bother to do any research.  To make matters worse, some big black bug is crawling around on your floor so you kill it and then you tell everyone in the family to be on the look out for more in their closets and beds and maybe this is a sign that something bad is going to happen.  Don't you think you are over-reacting just a little?

Seven.  Celebrities and other people who the media says is important--really?

You don't know that A-list actor or that D-list singer, but you worry that they died as a result of an organization murdering them and so now you stay up late all night thinking about them.  Then you scare people with stories about staying at home because some people got shot up the other day and maybe your neighbors might be next.  And as if that isn't good enough, you tell people to watch this show and that show to learn more about people who they don't know or even care about because this thing or that thing happened to them and it might happen to those you know.

We have all been guilty of this sort of behavior at times.  It's one thing learning about something and then sharing useful information with others.  But when one is inciting fear, mayhem and just plain insanity over things that none of us can control, there is a problem.  We should all remember to be wise before we share stories.

Turn your worries over to your Creator.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Just Because it's a New Year Doesn't Mean...

Just because it's a new year doesn't mean...

1. You are going to do anything different this year.  But it feels nice telling people that you are.

2.  You are going to look any different, but if you keep telling yourself you are, well we will just keep your lie a secret.

3.  You are going to have less challenges, because the older you get, the more you have.  The more you do, the more the stress.  The more you talk, the more you will be held accountable.

4.  Your family is going to listen to you, share concerns, or even bother with you this year.  Most likely, they have enough going on in their lives.

5.  You are any closer to God than last year because you attend church a little more, participate in a spiritual fast, and give away more money and time this year.  Keep in mind, God wants a personal relationship with you and sometimes simply listening to HIM and doing what HE says is all that is required.

Lastly, just because it's a new year doesn't mean...

6. You are finally being fed the truth from deceptive family, friends, co-workers, media, etc., instead, it just means they are orchestrating yet another way to cover for self, make you look like a fool, and dumb you down so they can get what they want, so wake up to those of you who are still sleeping!

Thanks for stopping by, and oh yes, Happy New Year!

Nicholl