I’m Excited About The Way WordPress v2.8 Handles Widgets
June 12, 2009
How exciting! WordPress version 2.8 is now available with many cool new features to simplify and improve our user experience. Notably, it is now possible to browse the theme directory like you can the plug-ins directory, all widgets are multi-instance widgets which allow use more than once, and screen options appear on every page to adjust for varying monitor sizes.
My favorite new feature is the ability to drop widgets into any one of your theme’s sidebars in a single screen, inactivate them, and save their settings. I know this would have come in handy when my blog page crashed this week because I used a one-time only widget that was suddenly invisible.
Watch this video for a nice overview of the new WordPress version 2.8.
I know it’s enticing to see that dashboard message “WordPress 2.8 is available! Please update now.” but do not select that link until you back up your database, widgets, your pages and posts and any customization you’ve done. Then, by all means, click away!
Home Based Tax Savings Courses
June 8, 2009
Last month I finished Dr. Ron Mueller’s Tax Savings Basic Essentials Course with the hopeful goal of saving a few thousand dollars on my taxes this year. I was not disappointed in his thorough review of tax deductions and simple record keeping requirements. I was able to read through his book “Home Business Tax Savings Made Easy!” in 2 days. Dr. Mueller arms you with the knowledge and confidence to take those known tax deductions without fear of the IRS. I’ve never written off my home office but now that I understand the IRS tax code requirements better, I will realize more tax savings this year.
Ron explains better than I can, so here is his message to all of us! The BIG bonus is that I am now armed with the IRS tax code to share with my clients 
This course will seriously pay for itself by the time you have finished it. Let me know what you save.
Networking In Person at IVAA
May 10, 2009
I recently attended the International Virtual Assistant Association live Summit in Montreal, Canada. What a fabulous experience, I had! First off I was able to visit a city I had never been to and that is always a treat. A group of us had the wonderful opportunity to take a bus tour of the city and that certainly was a highlight. I especially enjoyed overlooking the city and could image it a beautiful sight at night with the city lights and stars glowing.
My favorite part of the trip was actually meeting and greeting others, in person, who absolutely understand what I do and the challenges I face working on my own. The blank stares of my husband are understandable when I begin speaking in techno-geek or trying to problem solve challenges with my business.It was a tough to commit the resources for attending but the networking and knowledge I gained was money very well spent. I met and networked with fabulous fellow VAs and opened doors of possibility. I came away recharged, solidifying the vision I have for my business. I highly recommend attending a live event with your professional organizations and networks. You will truly never be the same. [tags]networking, events, IVAA, kellywilliamsva, kelly williams, virtual assistant[/tags]
Carbonite is My New Best Friend
April 13, 2009
As a self-employed virtual bookkeeper, my system data and files are the life of my business. I decided it was wise to keep 2 backups: an external hard drive backup and an online backup to cover both internet or local emergencies. After much discussion among my fellow virtual assistants, I changed my online backup of choice to Carbonite. It’s been finished for less than a day and I’m thrilled with it already!
What makes Carbonite so much better? First off, it updates my backup automatically and absolutely works in the background, without having to change to low priority internet usage. It took a quick 2 days to create my initial backup and I love the little colored status dots displayed on files and folders letting me know which files are complete (green) or still scheduled for backup(yellow). This is in sharp contrast to my previous backup system, with system stopping usage, scheduled backups that canceled themselves, and a 5 day initial backup. Managing backups manually defeats the service’s purpose, but in my previous service’s defense, my older laptop has been struggling with system conflicts.
I decided to jump right in without the free trial and purchased the program using an internet coupon that left me paying under $50 for a year of service. My next step is to restore the laptop’s files onto our new desktop and I feel extremely confident that the process will be a piece of cake because Carbonite is my new BFF!
[tags]resources, web & technology, kellywilliamsva, kelly williams, carbonite, online backup, virtual assistant[/tags]
The Importance of My Network
April 7, 2009
After several years of owning and operating my small bookkeeping business from home, I have to say the most important key to my success has been the value of my networks. Being connected with various virtual assistant organizations such as IVAA, VANetworking, and A Clayton’s Secretary, has given me the amazing opportunity to interact with seasoned industry veterans and fellow newbies, alike. The discussion forums are full of advice, resources, and answers to any question I can imagine. As a work at home professional, I realize how important it is to cultivate relationships bigger than myself. In reflection, if I had started my business today I would’ve been much smarter in my organization because of what I have learned. I still believe I am better off with the knowledge I’ve gained in trying different phone/fax services or online collaboration sites, for example. But the difference today is that I have confidence in the tools I use daily, and the benefit is that I am increasing my productivity.
When reaching out to a network, it’s important to remember local organizations that can also provide support and knowledge on a more personal level. Our southern California VA group has monthly lunch meetings and the camaraderie that has been built is truly unmatched. Relationships will blossom and trust is developed. I am so thankful that our founder, Paula Farthing of Admin at Your Service, has stayed committed to this non-profit group. Just this week, I sought her advice about purchasing a new computer system. Her input is invaluable to me as is her willingness to stop what she is doing and offer assistance. Remember that you are not an island! Feel free to leave a note about what you are doing to combat this in your daily work life.
[tags]social networking, ivaa, vanetworking, a clayton’s secretary, bookkeeping, kellywilliamsva, kelly williams, resources, virtual assistant, web & technology, admin at your service, paula farthing[/tags]
