I started a new blog to focus on my money making efforts. I think it will be cleaner to have a separate place for that. The new blog is at http://momamo.wordpress.com.
Leia Mais…Sunday, December 28, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
My Birthday + Hustling for pennies
My birthday was yesterday and I did what I do everyday: take care of babies. I used to get sad on my birthdays, they always felt like a disappointment. Now I treat it like any other day and it's fine, I don't mind not celebrating.
I'm still trying to do a little bit each day to make some money online. If I feel like writing an article for Associated Content, I'll try to write. If I don't want to do that I'll update a Squidoo lens. If I want to just do some somewhat mindless work I'll do some HITs on Amazon Mechanical Turk (which is oddly addicting). There are still other things I could be working on but that's what I've been up to lately.
I am expecting to see this pay off eventually; maybe not in the near future but some time. I think of it like planting seeds the payoff doesn't have to be instant. At least a few of these seeds should grow into some residual income. The real goal is to not have to work and still make some money.
I'm still learning a lot though. There is plenty to improve in my writing and marketing skills and I'm learning as I go along.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Update on Amazon Mechanical Turk
I didn't give up on Amazon Mechanical Turk because I found a better way of browsing HITs than what I was doing before. I sort them by creation date with the newest HITs first. I found out the the simple tasks are snatched up pretty quickly and will come up after reloading the page a few times.
Leia Mais…Friday, December 19, 2008
Amazon Mechanical Turk
I'm always looking to make a few extra dollars and this time my seeking lead me to Amazon Mechanical Turk. As a worker on the site you accept HITs or Human Intelligence Tasks for pay. This is how Amazon describes a HIT:
A Human Intelligence Task, or HIT, is a question that needs an answer. A HIT represents a single, self-contained task that a worker can work on, submit an answer, and collect a reward for completing.
So why are there requests to write articles for one penny on this site? It looks like the requesters are trying use to this platform to exploit workers.
I just started with Turk and I really just wanted to do some basic tasks for a few cents. I'm not sure how much longer I'll pursue Turk. I already feel like I've wasted too much time on it just looking for HITs that pay appropriately. Leia Mais…
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Back to Squidoo
I joined Squidoo back in 2006 and I never did much with it. I made a few dollars over the years but that's about all. I've just recently got back into lensmaking and it is fun. There are lots more modules to choose from now and apparently some people are making decent money. I want to be one of them.
I doing a little every day to improve my lenses and learn how to make profitable ones.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The more I look at this sketch the more I hate it. I will for the sake of documenting my progress leave it here.
Leia Mais…Monday, December 8, 2008
Sketchy Sketch
It's been a long time since I've drawn anything. Here is my first sketch in awhile.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
New Challenge from Associated Conent
I started publishing with Associated Content last month and I managed to publish five times and get the $10 bonus (yay)! So now AC has challenged me to publish 20 articles for upfront payment in the month of December. If I do it, I'll get another $10 bonus.
I've decided to try it but so far it has been difficult. My babies don't give me much time to myself and for some reason my body is not allowing me to stay awake for my late-night/early-morning alone time anymore.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
I'm just tired
It is so easy to slip into a pattern of stagnancy and immobility. It's so easy to just drift through life with each passing day feeling just like the one before it. I have been forcing myself to make an intentional mark on each day of my life. It is my goal to create and be productive daily. In the past couple of days I've just been tired--completely exhausted.
I guess this bit of writing is something. Really, with two children to chase, everyday I achieve something. But, as rewarding as child-rearing can be, it isn't the same as taking a moment to think and create. This is just my thoughts streamed onto the screen. I bet none of this even makes any sense.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Having Fun with Associated Content
I'm having fun with Associated Content. It's nice to get those little upfront PayPal payments and to watch my pageviews. This is kind of a breakthrough for me, because I've always hated writing. With AC I've just been writing about what is interesting to me, like my new geeky phone. I'm really enjoying it.
One cool thing about writing for AC is that once I submitted my first article, I got an email saying I would get a $10 bonus if I publish five articles by the 15th. That was a great incentive to get writing and I think I'll make it.
Join AC with me. :) Leia Mais…
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Why couldn't I have waited?
I bought my iPod touch in July and I'm still in the honeymoon phase with it. I still love my touch but why is the new generation everything I wish mine is and $60 cheaper? I feel cheated. Still, I'm impressed with what I have. It's making blogging from the bathroom possible.
Leia Mais…Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Stuff I tell myself I don't need but still want to buy
I've changed my attitude about money and about material objects. I used to buy things I couldn't afford and many of the higher priced items I am still paying interest on. I am learning the value delayed gratification but it hasn't stopped me from wanting stuff. Still, I want to keep my energy open to having the things I desire so I'm making a list of items I want but refuse to buy now.
* An iphone. I pretty much love all things apple but I can't justify the monthly charges. I'm holding out on any ipod (and I've always wanted one) until I get...
* A new computer. I definitely don't need a new computer because there are multiple computers in the house including my own laptop but my ibook is seven years old and I want a new computer all to myself.
* A wii. It looks like fun but with two children under two I doubt I'll have much time for games. I won't buy any type of game system until I have my own home anyway.
My list is longer than this. I'll add on more as I think of it.
gratitude
I am grateful for: my family and loved ones, health, resolving a petty fight, hope, comfort, life, new clothes, inspiration...
Leia Mais…Sunday, May 4, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: health, comfort, my home, the people I love, eating the pizza I wanted, a beautiful day, play time with my daughter, time alone, baby kicks...
Leia Mais…Saturday, May 3, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: health, life, my family, my friends, my babies, motivation to succeed, being blessed...
Leia Mais…Wednesday, April 30, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful today for: health, family, friends, productivity, finding my stylus, hope, ideas, revelations, feeling safe and comfortable, my time well-spent, my time with my daughter, being able to see my baby growing and developing...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, April 29, 2008
NO! My pen is missing
I am annoyed because the pen to my tablet is missing. I usually do my daily sketch now on the computer and I can't now. I guess I have to do it the old way with just pen and paper.
Leia Mais…gratitude
I am grateful for: getting up early in the morning, getting something accomplished, the many forms of assistance I am receiving, my family, my friends, my babies, our health, this quiet moment alone, getting to play with my daughter...
Leia Mais…Monday, April 28, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: health in my home, my friends, my family, rest, new ideas, hope...
Leia Mais…Sunday, April 27, 2008
The semester is nearly finished
I am so close to being finished with my classes and I am proud of myself for doing well this semester.
Leia Mais…gratitude
I am grateful for: my friends, my family, my babies, having a home, medical insurance, new beginnings, health, getting enough sleep, good food, time alone...
Leia Mais…Saturday, April 26, 2008
gratitude
I am thankful for: my health, my children, my family, my friends, getting out to the bookstore, laughing with my daughter, a healthy meal, feeling safe, being loved, having dreams, learning, growing, experiencing my pregnancy...
Leia Mais…Friday, April 25, 2008
A moment of gratitude
Everyday, I try to list at least five things I am grateful for but this list isn't taking place real-time. I noticed today that as I am going about my daily routine, I am not taking notice of what I should be grateful for moment-to-moment. Fortunately, earlier this evening I had such a moment when I was fully present and grateful for the experience.
I was having a difficult time getting my daughter to go to sleep. She wouldn't stay in her crib and while in the bed with me she was squirming all over the place, banging on the walls, and playing patty cake on my back. I was annoyed and I just wanted her to sleep. Then, she tumbled over me from the back, snuggled up against me and closed her eyes. It was at that moment that I realized how lucky I am to have her and to be able to hold her as she falls asleep. I noticed how perfect her little chubby hands were and I remembered just what a miracle and a blessing she is.
This shift in attitude was such a shock to me. It felt so nice just to appreciate what was happening as it was happening. It just made me think of how much of the day goes by without me even noticing how blessed I really am.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: my friends and family, energy, being productive, everything I have learned, my free time, having enough to eat, my home, help...
Leia Mais…Wednesday, April 23, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: peace of mind, hope, financial support, emotional support, life, my children, my home, my family, my friends, progress, health, new ideas, inspiration, time to create, time away from the house, playing with my daughter, hearing "mama"...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Free $25 yay!
I received a much needed $25 for free into my bank account just for signing up with revolution money exchange, a new online payment processor.
--I'll get $10 if you sign up through my link. So if you happen to do that, thanks in advance. www.revolutionmoneyexchange.com
Monday, April 21, 2008
gratitude
Today I am grateful for: my babies, my health, my friends and family, a safe place to live, knowing I am loved, finishing an assignment, my time alone, the times I have laughed and smiled, playing with my daughter and hearing her shriek with laughter, getting to bask in sunshine, the baby finally falling asleep.
Leia Mais…Sunday, April 20, 2008
I don't worry as much anymore
I realized today that my chronic worrying seems to be going away. This is good, but it has been replaced by a feeling of being lost. I feel like I don't know where I am or where I'm going but I know that somehow everything is okay. I am in a place in my life that I never imagined I would be. It is so far away from my expectations that I just don't have any reference point. I would rather feel this way than to have anxiety about what my future holds. I am hopeful, I know that things will work out.
Leia Mais…gratitude
I am grateful today for: health, my family and friends, being able to forgive, being forgiven, hope for the future, motivation to be better, time alone, time to draw, the quiet right now, a hot shower, food in my stomach, being awake, being alive...
Leia Mais…Saturday, April 19, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful today for: time well spent, health, the many things that are going right, having choices, getting homework done, my time alone, my babies, all of the people I love, everyone that has helped me, being creative, plenty to eat and drink, new ideas, hope, every blessing, feeling better...
Leia Mais…Thursday, April 17, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: having hope for the future, my babies, being chased by a laughing ten-month-old, my loved ones, my judgment, the help I have throughout the day, feeling my son's movement in the womb, every smile and laugh, feeling sunshine on my skin...
Leia Mais…gratitude
I am thankful today for: what I managed to get done, hearing my daughter say, "mama" even if it wasn't clear that she was referring to me, my babies, health, having loved ones, a nice dinner, alone time, a long nap...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, April 15, 2008
gratitude
Today I am grateful for: catching up with friends, a hot shower, my caring family, my play time, my babies, knowledge that everything is working out, having my needs met, health and life, reminders of my blessings...
Leia Mais…Monday, April 14, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: a good meal, lots of time with my daughter, time to play, time to create, being healthy and having a healthy family, all of the people I love, the people who love me...
Leia Mais…Friday, April 11, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful today for: new clothes, fresh food and water, my family and friends, hearing my daughter laugh and watching her play, a nap, health, getting things done...
Leia Mais…Wednesday, April 9, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful today for: every smile and laugh I experienced today, hearing my daughter talk loudly and persistently, a slight injury that could have been worse, dental coverage, feeling something, having loved ones, the support of my family, my computer as a creative tool, having enough to share with others, new ideas, motivation to do more...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, April 8, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: health insurance, health, my family, my friends, everyone that has helped me, lessons I've learned, food, being able to laugh...
Leia Mais…Monday, April 7, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for: my loved ones, my home, seeing my babies grow, freedom, motivation, being productive, miracles, my life, my choices, time well spent, time to relax...
Leia Mais…Saturday, April 5, 2008
gratitude
I am thankful today for: a home, health, family and loved ones, laughter, my daughter's babbling, play time, a long shower, the little one, satisfying a food craving...
Leia Mais…Thursday, April 3, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful today for: hearing my baby babble, little kicks from the one inside, ice cream, a hot shower, help with babysitting, time to work and play, my loved ones, the ones that love me, motivation, getting excited about my future, a long nap, health, coming back up after feeling low...
Leia Mais…Wednesday, April 2, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for help with my baby, the people I love, my desire to grow, joy, abundance, beauty, mobility, life, choices, my home, free time, productive time, people who care...
Leia Mais…Ouch
I have reached a point in this pregnancy where my body hurts. It isn't severe pain; I just wake up sore in multiple areas of my body. I am getting larger and I can literally feel my body stretching. It is time to get serious about regular exercise and to start my hypnobabies study again. I want to be physically and mentally prepared for Birth Day.
Leia Mais…Tuesday, April 1, 2008
gratitude
I am grateful for my baby is enjoying her crib and falling asleep by herself, the sell of the apartment moving along, alone time, time to think, hope for the future, inspiration to act, spending some creative energy, play time with my daughter, reminders of small miracles, faith, love, friendships, family, recognizing beauty, feeling...
Leia Mais…Friday, March 28, 2008
gratitude
a crib for baby, an offer on the apartment, play time, health, my loved ones, my computer, getting a doctor's appointment, breakfast, a new outfit, hope, inspiration, momentum, healthy growth...
Leia Mais…Monday, March 24, 2008
gratitude
a full belly, a peaceful baby, my unborn son's movements, having something to look forward to, making changes, hearing my daughter laugh and play, having fresh food for my daughter, purring kitties, time to reflect, having stretched my body...
Leia Mais…gratitude
health, baby laughter, clean water, getting along with family, peace of mind, motivation to grow, keeping good habits, momentum...
Leia Mais…Sunday, March 23, 2008
gratitude
quality time with my daughter, having creative energy and spending it, little flutters throughout the day, plenty to eat, alone time, my family and other loved ones, my computer, my drawing tablet, play time, a hot shower, a long nap...
Leia Mais…Saturday, March 22, 2008
gratitude
my phone, my home, a good laugh, a balanced dinner, clean water, my babies, my family, the cats, free time, putting the baby to sleep easily...
Leia Mais…Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
I'm $1,000,000 richer today
It's only virtual money but it's still fun to have a million dollars to play with. I just signed up at updown.com where you can earn real money with a virtual portfolio. If you want to join, use my link please because you can also earn by referring new members. http://www.updown.com/?_refer=52998
Leia Mais…gratitude
baby kisses and laughter, little kicks from the inside, having time to play, having time to create, creating good habits, a good deal on a car seat, an offer on my apartment, being loved, family, friends, hot food, a hot shower, butter pecan ice cream, alone time...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, March 18, 2008
gratitude
good food to eat, my silly daughter, long fits of laughter, my computer as a creative tool, having plenty to hope for, having plenty to be thankful for, the desire to change for the better...
Leia Mais…Monday, March 17, 2008
Gratitude
ice cream, feeling better, a happy baby, feeling kicks, motivation, hope, positive changes, a beautiful day...
Leia Mais…Sunday, March 16, 2008
Gratitude
my life, my home, my family, expansion, growth, health, movement, new ideas, hopes, goals, lessons learned, seeing my daughter change, seeing my body change, the growth of my unborn son, laughter, friends, being able to communicate with loved ones...
Leia Mais…Saturday, March 15, 2008
Gratitude
words, feelings, family, my mother's birthday, my children, hopes, goals, motivation, abundance, clothing, warmth, my bed, kitties, chocolate cake, flexible joints, movement, music, seeing my daughter grow, fingers to type, personal growth, personal progress, having strength to do what needs to be done...
Leia Mais…Friday, March 14, 2008
Gratitude
health, companionship, comfort, sunshine, life, hope, progress, time to study, time alone, family, my children, creative energy, a new day...
Leia Mais…Contests and Sweepstakes
I've been making it a point to enter some type of contest daily. It is fun because just in the act of entering, I am opening up a new possibility. I could win something or someone else could, but I would have no chance if I didn't enter at all right?
I've been visiting http://contests.about.com to find new contests to enter. There are more than enough there to keep me busy.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Gratitude
getting things done, my babies, my family, generosity of others, hearing my daughter's laughter, feeling my baby move, having an active mind an body, having a voice and discovering more of it, hope for the future, progress toward my dreams, a home...
Leia Mais…Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Gratitude
hugs and kisses, baby feeling better, getting things done, being loved and loving, having support, having hope, everything that makes me smile, hot food, clean bed, active body, new looks...
Leia Mais…Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Gratitude
Some things I am thankful for at the moment (in no particular order)
My babies, productive energy, revived inspiration and direction, family, friends, being able to communicate, my health and the health of loved ones, the kitties, an ice cream float, hearty laughter.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Prosper.com: another social lending site
I am hooked on these social lending sites. I just joined prosper and they also offer a sign up and referral bonus.
I am also using a non-profit site, Kiva.org. I helped a woman in Uganda buy piglets for her business. I only spent the minimum $25 but I still feel like I helped. Leia Mais…
Lending Club: peer-to-peer lending
I am having fun with my new lending club account. I like the idea of my small sum of money contributing to a loan for someone. I really like the idea of getting paid interest for it. I don't have much invested in this but it's still fun. Join with me as a lender or borrower and we'll both get a $25 credit.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Goals
I joined 43 things not to long ago and it has me thinking more about goals I have for myself. It is easier to achieve goals when they are written down so I am making a point to record them as soon as they come to me. One new goal I have is to create one original piece of art and offer it for sale. Let's see if I can keep up with that goal.
Leia Mais…