The last two weeks have been amazing.

*Shhhh!* (Just saying it may jinx my luck, so I’ll whisper the rest…)

I’ve not even taken the time to blog because I’ve been so busy and so bubbly and I didn’t want the good stuff to end. (Yeah, sometimes I really AM that superstitious.)

Eliminated the Storage Unit

I’ve made so much progress since the first of December, that I’ve been amazed. During the first week, my youngest son came down and spent four days with me, helping me to clean out my storage unit (there are only three items left — and those will be cleaned out by the end of the month). So that’s one monthly bill that’s now been eliminated. I despise storage units. I think they represent the conspicuous consumption in our country.

Having one was a painful prospect for me, but with all the moves in the last two years… one became necessary. Now, I’m glad I had it. My son just got his first (rental) house and with the stuff in my storage unit and at my farm, he’s got pretty much everything needs now. It felt really good to help him get started. That was my combination Christmas gift and housewarming gift for him.

Organized Boxes

Byron also worked with me to organize and clean out the boxes of stuff that needed to be sorted. I donated a slew of stuff to Goodwill and go the farm in a condition that I can begin working on the cabin again. THAT feels really good!

I also “found” some of the things I’d been missing that was driving me crazy… like the charger and extra battery for my camera, among other things.

PurpleStates.tv and CNN

In November I was invited by PurpleStates.tv to be their representative blogger from Kentucky. They invited one blogger from each state to talk about the economy and politics and the impact on the local area. Quite a feather in my cap… and a great deal of fun. Then, my particular piece was picked up by CNN. Nice, huh?

Airstream finds a new home

During this same first week in December, I received a deposit to hold my Airstream for an out-of-the-country buyer. Her representative flew up on a Wednesday (in his little Cesna) to take a peek at Serenity. The details were all arranged and she was delivered to North Carolina today.

The most exciting thing is that the buyer (currently residing in the Bahamas) is shipping her overseas to the UK where she plans to summer in her during 2009. An interior decorator, she plans to completely rework Serenity. I feel confident that Serenity’s found a good home with someone who will appreciate her. Of course my RV is doing more traveling than I am. *shucks!*

Like my purchase of the farm from a lady in Israel, my sale of Serenity has an interesting international twist. God bless the Internet! (The buyer found me on Marketplace on Facebook.)

The Credit Card Bites the Dust

By the middle of next week, my credit card will be paid off and filed away for emergencies only. In the current economic situation, I can’t afford to owe money, so I’m eliminating that as much as possible and as quickly as possible. I’ll be running on a cash basis now.

Too many people owe too much and acquire what they can’t afford and don’t need and hope that they never have to pay more than the “minimum” without any intent to pay off their debts in full. It’s a disease of our society and it’s sinking our country. I refuse to be a part of it.

The Apartment Comes Together

I’ve been living in this apartment for six months. I’ve lived with very little of what I want and need. Why? Because I couldn’t get what I wanted and needed moved in by myself. So, I’ve lived in this limbo-land. I despise limbo… it’s my least favorite place to be.

Byron helped me get things moved in last week in between all the other stuff we did. Last weekend I arranged, decorated and organized everything in the main room. This weekend, I’ll spend the time required to finish the work up.

Pops has agreed to help me build the euro-style sink and cabinet I need to add the final touches. I think we may try to do that in January. I still need to get my final measurements and draw up the plans.

This tiny apartment is becoming the efficient, organized, workhorse that I always wanted to create in a small space. I love tiny houses and tiny spaces. Always have. Now, I’m creating one here. It’s pretty amazing.

My father saw what I’ve done here and informed me that there’s “apparently a whole movement on living in smaller spaces” — duh… really? Go figure! I don’t think that man has ever read any of my blogs. And sometimes I wonder if he actually HEARS me when I speak. EVER.

A lead on the truck

I bought a truck a few months ago that needs a new transmission. It’s been sitting and waiting for me to find the time and the money to get it up and running. The only thing I wish that it had that it doesn’t (other than a new transmission) is a manual transmission. Last night, while talking to some family, they told me that they knew of a truck of the same model that was for sale. It was priced right because the body isn’t great. The engine and the transmission (a manual, btw) are both in great shape.

Long story short, I’ve asked them for an estimate on taking that truck and transferring the transmission to my truck. It will be alot less expensive than getting a new transmission and I’ll have the extra parts to help keep my little old truck running. It’s not that I relish the idea of having a “spare parts” truck around… but as the times get leaner, I’m sure that would be more welcome.

Chances are good that I’ll have the truck I wanted with the manual transmission that makes me happy, an extra engine and extra parts all for less money than it was going to cost me to get the current transmission fixed. Now isn’t that sweet?

I just have to find a place to properly store it on the farm so I don’t end up feeling like (or looking like) a hillbilly…*where DID I put those cement blocks?*…

Selling on eBay

I may spend this weekend getting some of the extra stuff I’m ready to discard put on eBay. I’ve been planning to do that for ages, but always have a good excuse why I’m not doing it yet. I’m too busy, there’s too much else I need to be doing, it’s a drag, maybe I should rethink it… etc., etc.

I’ve noticed that as I have made progress in these areas that are so important to me, it’s given me the stamina to forge ahead and do even more! So, maybe after the open house this weekend (a Christmas thing that my landlady is hosting), I’ll be able to do that.

(My landlady is awesome and is so impressed with what I’ve done with the little place, she asked if I would be willing to let her show it off during the open house. I’m flattered to the point of distraction and, of course, agreed.)

So, I’m going to take a couple of the boxes of stuff that need to be listed on eBay and try to get them up this weekend so they will sell before Christmas and I can get them shipped out for holiday delivery. I’m actually excited about this.

Buying on eBay

I’ve been evaluating what I want in life lately. And at the ripe old age of 42 (almost 43 now), I can honestly say that there’s very little on my “want” list. And many of the things I do want I now have or have made plans to achieve… like getting out of debt, fixing the truck, finishing the cabin, etc.

Other than these big items the rest are smallish things. I made my list. I want a nice pair of diamond stud earrings — not too small, not too large. Good quality, preferably in platinum with screw on backs so I can wear them without worry. I know it’s not “living small” but I don’t care, I want them. Besides, if I have those I can sell most of the ones I currently own on eBay, right?

I want a pair of black leather boots like the ones I wore out a few years back. They were Cole Haan, western styled and made me feel ten feet tall, bullet-proof, and a just bit cocky whenever I wore them. You simply can’t wear that kind of boot without exuding attitude. The replacements will probably have a less slick sole so I can wear them on a bike, but they must easily lend themselves to the creation of that aura of attitude.

I want a bike — one larger than the beep-beep. Probably about a 650 cc — and I want it with the running board styling rather than traditional motorcycle styling. I want it to have a comfortable seat for Alex. And I want a thick leather jacket to extend the riding season a bit. Now would be the perfect time to buy it since it’s off season, and since gasoline is now down to about $1.50 per gallon… but I’m cash poor, so it will have to wait.

This week I nailed one of those items. I bid on and won a pair of tiny diamond studs. I took a chance on them, despite the fact that they were smaller than what I wanted. I figured they would work well until I could afford the size I sought. Thankfully, the size was misquoted. The seller quoted them as just under a quarter carat for both… when in fact they were EACH right at a quarter carat. In platinum, acorn style screw backs and good quality stones… all for *drum roll*…

$76.00!

I’m a jewelry lover and this kind of find was, well, amazing. The seller received them from an old flame and said it was “time to move on” so she was selling them. It’s probably the best deal I’ve ever made on eBay! I have priced them out based on the size, clarity, color and setting. Value for these little gems is between $600 and $900! Currently they are securely screwed into my earlobes where they will stay for a very, VERY long time.

Popping the cork

Over a year ago I bought a bottle of champagne. I purchased it in the hope of drinking it soon… when things started to turn around and life got good again. It’s now been in my refrigerator for over 12 months… waiting. Tonight, I go against my “never drink alone” rule and pop the cork on that baby. It’s not an expensive bottle… but it does have a cork and that’s good enough. (I have absolutely NO “taste” when it comes to wine and such because I despise most of what other people tell me is “the good stuff” — but that serves my budget well.) *I just hope that it’s not so old that it has turned to vinegar*

So tonight I relax in my newly redecorated tiny apartment, sip a glass or two of bubbly and reflect on the fact that despite the crumminess that has been 2007 and 2008… that ALREADY 2009 is looking a bit better!

And all this… ALL of it… has happened since December 1st!

(Pretty photo courtesy of razvandm)

While recovering from a case of the creeping-crud, I’ve spent many hours over at the apps store catching up on what’s new and cool. I’m not BEING very productive lately, so I’m researching productivity (and other) apps. (Hey, at least I’m accomplishing something!)

In particular, I was looking for:

• a better way to handle my to-do lists
• a way to maintain standard packing lists
• a quick-launching notes program
• a running diary for those “when did I do that?” queries
• a grocery shopping list-maker
• a way to do my @ lists (loosely based on GTD philosophy — VERY loosely)

I found one of the most incredible database programs to date for the iPhone. It’s called iDB Datamaster Pro (there’s a free version and a lite version, but I wanted a limitation-free option). It was developed by Evince Technologies, Inc specifically for the iPhone and is not a port or a re-write of another program.

It literally replaced half a screenful of other apps on my homepage — and we all know how precious that space is!

The layout is good and the templates (which I hope will continue to expand) handle most of what I’ve needed so far. I like the integration with the native apps which permits one-tap phone calls and web site launches from within the databases.

The best features?

1. A powerful search across ALL the databases. (Really nice!)

2. The ability to “pause” the database and return to the exact same place next time the app is launched saves taps and frustration. (Small feature, huge impact on usability.) It even has time-stamped logs for locating what was done when.

3. I particularly like the fact that I can backup the databases to my own computer in CSV format — but need to play with this a bit more to learn how to backup and restore effectively.

It’s a little more expensive than the standard .99-4.99 apps, coming in at 12.99 for the pro version, but it’s worth every penny, IMHO. I’ll review a few more of my best finds over the next few days, including writer’s tools for the iPhone and (hopefully) a decent replacement for some of the standard apps (like calendar).

In the meantime, go download the free version of this DB app and give it a try. I think you will like it as much as I do.

If you are working with limited space, you can still enjoy a full featured office. Home office technology and the ability to “go paperless” dramatically reduces the physical space needed to do your work. The first rule in working and living in small spaces is to eliminate everything that isn’t essential and organize everything that is. Aside from that, I’ve assembled the following list of essentials for a well-appointed tiny office.

Low-profile computer

I, of course, love my iMac. But, there are many little computers that don’t sacrifice features or function to enjoy a substantial amount of screen real estate while maintaining a dainty footprint. If you prefer a laptop, your tiny office will love you for it!

Go wireless

The fewer wires you have to string about, the happier you will be. The new bluetooth keyboards and mice won’t even require a dongle if your computer is bluetooth equipped. Printers now come wireless and network ready — without a huge pricetag. Using one printer for all computers in the house simplifies life.

All-in-one data scanner/printer solution

Once a week (if you aren’t a “daily” type) you should empty your inbox, scanning in anything that you need to keep and filing it in a software filing program (or in your own system of nested files). Keep only those items you are legal bound to retain. Scan and file those and discard the rest.

Go for quality

Don’t skimp on the quality of your keyboard, don’t accept a less than perfect height desk, and buy the best, most ergonomically sound desk chair you can afford. Buy a good headset for your computer. In addition to making it easier to utilize the cost-effective VOIP options, it will also keep your conversations a bit more private if you are sharing close-quarters with others.

Save your eyes

Make sure you have excellent general lighting as well as task lighting in your office. Squinting at the screen isn’t a good way to spend your day. If you can manage to position your desk so that you can gaze out a window, you will allow your eyes a much needed “mini-vacation” during the course of each day. A few minutes gazing outside and focusing on items in the distance will prevent eyestrain and headaches.

Desk Accessories – A listing of my personal essentials

• Stapler (and refills)
• Weighted tape dispenser
• Three hole punch
• Mechanical pencil (with extra lead)
• Ink pen (a good quality roller ball or a fountain pen)
• Bar-style or other eraser (Papermate “black pearl” oval erasers are nice)
• Paper clips
• Ruler or a small tape measure
• Highlighter
• Sharpies (Black in medium and fine tips)
• Garbage can
• An inbox and an out box
• Stack of index cards (or a note pad if you prefer)
• Microfiber monitor/screen cleaning cloth

Stationery

• Notecards (preferably customized with your business name or monogram)
• Business cards
• Stamps (save yourself the hassle and buy the “forever” variety)
• Printer Paper
• Standard Envelopes
• Return address labels
• Small notepad or stack of index cards

Data storage

Two thumbdrives (one for work stuff, one for personal items) This eliminates the need for most CDs and DVDs and is a much more earth-friendly way to handle your data. It also conserves your office space.
Two external hard drives (one for onsite backups, one for offsite backup storage)

How to handle sticky and space-hogging items

Software disks and manuals can become cumbersome. First, sort through all the ones you currently have and discard/donate any that are outdated or that you no longer use. For those still in use, store a copy of the disk on your computer and back it up to your external hard drives and store the original copies in a less convenient location.

This will keep your office clear, without risking a loss due to a hard drive crash. It will also make it easier to get a new computer up and running by keeping all your software install info in one central location.

• Have one folder for each type of software disk copy (Utilities, Games, Productivity, Graphic Arts, Music, Video, etc.)
• Use a password program (like KeePassX) to store your software activation numbers, purchase information, etc.
• Keep a folder of ebooks on your computer and label one “Users Manuals” – most disks now come with a PDF version of the manual (and those that don’t usually have a version available online.)

NOTE: Be sure, if you go paperless, that you backup your hard drive no less than once a week and keep that copy offsite (safety rule-of-thumb is 50 miles from your home office). Another option is to use one of the smaller hard drives and place it in your safety deposit box. If you use two drives and rotate them, it will be easy to drop one off and pick up the other any time you are out anyway.

Life moves fast. Achieving a successful work-life balance can be especially difficult for remote professionals, consultants, freelancers and small business owners. A professional coach can offer effective tools to help you manage your time and your business more effectively so you can enjoy your life more.

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If you are a real estate broker … and one of the things you plan to do this year is get more organized (but the thought of doing the WORK to get more organized makes you decide this task can wait) — you may be interested in a new service I’ve found!

Long-time transaction coordinator (and the person I recommend to my own clients for these services), Karen Drebes of The Coordinator Group (www.CoordinatorGroup.com), has recently launched a new division, DocManagers. This service takes the burden of paper management off any weary broker’s back and makes life inside your office easier. (more…)

Today the kitchen has lost its position as the “heart of the home” that it enjoyed in generations past. According to a 2004 report on dining out, single professionals eat over 50% of their meals away from home. And, in recent trends data… the NationalRestaurant Association (NRA) reports that restaurant sales will rise nearly twelve-fold from the 1970 figure of $42.8 billion to a whopping $511.1 billion this year!

So, where does this leave you when you are trying to show a home? It makes it essential that you outline the ideal kitchen and help your listing clients ensure that their kitchen shows well.

Yes, some people are gourmet cooks, some families still eat dinner together every night, and some individuals consider their kitchen the only real place to “congregate with friends.” But many homeowners eat out more often than they cook at home. Add to that the number of meals that are “delivered” and the number that are eaten “en route” to work and school… and you may find that the kitchen has taken a back seat when you are showing a home. (more…)

Real Estate Articles Being a real estate agent is challenging especially considering the industry’s technological intensity and the current climate of economic uncertainty. It’s especially taxing for successful agents and Realtors® who are considering redefining their business. If you plan to hone only one skill this year, select the one that will make a huge positive difference in your business, your success, and your quality of life. Become an expert decision maker.

Let me explain… (more…)

Last month’s poll indicated that information on productivity tools is what you want most. To help save you money, time, and effort — I’ve developed the following list. (Consider me your own personal field-tester.) After downloading and testing, buying and discarding, dedicating and reconfiguring —I’ve come up with a few Treo gems I consider essential.

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So the idea of an office in your pocket appeals to you? Great! Now, we need to move the Treo 650 from a basic device to something that would make you want to “write home” – or e-mail, or IM, or text message or phone.

Real estate agents are all about communication and service. If clients can’t find you, and get the answers they need quickly – they move on. So, let’s get you up and running with a few “add-on” programs that help to keep you in touch and on top.

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Why carry a cell phone, a laptop, a PDA, lockbox keys and a number of other connectivity and productivity devices when you can set up ONE device that does it all? Let me introduce you to the best little pocket-sized device on the market – and teach you how to customize it for the needs of your real estate business.

Mobility You Can Use

Welcome to the world of the Treo 650. It’s a device that many real estate agents are discovering, but only a few have learned to “trick out” to serve their every need and every whim.

I’ve been writing articles about mobility for several years, I’ve blogged about it on WickedBlog.com for ages, and I’ve even taken the time from my own marketing consultation and writing business to create a website (WickedTreo.com) to help teach real estate agents and other mobile professionals how to use the Treo to improve their business. I know it helps me, and I want to help others learn how to use this all-in-one device to organize and improve their businesses and their lives. I believe in the importance of unwired mobility for real estate professionals and I volunteer a good deal of my own time to promote it and show others how to use it. (more…)

A new year is a great time to rework your computer system, or configure a new one. If you are a long-time Windows user, you know that the wear and tear of virtual work means that your system takes a beating. If you just purchased a new tax deduction, errr… computer system… then you should take this opportunity to tweak it for the type of work you do and the way you work.

That said, let’s give your system a tune-up!

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