http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribersPortable Hands Newsletter SubscribersWed, 21 Dec 2011 17:33:05 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/BO_jc/h/_News_from_Portable_Hands_.htm Fall 2011 NOTE FROM KATRINA A lot has gone on since I published my last newsletter. Much of which I'll share with you below. It seems I've been busy as ever since March so the holiday season (starting with Thanksgiving) just added another aspect to my already busy schedule and changing life. Here's my story. It's one that I hope inspires you to always push for your dreams...even when life comes at you fast! Katrina Feature Article: CHANGE Winter officially starts on Thursday, December 22 so today is the last day of fall. I think the last time I published a newsletter and connected with YOU my readers was some time in March. But it hasn't been without good reason. You all have been in my thoughts during a time of great transition in my life. Thank you for your patience and for hanging in there with me I am writing to you on a much deeper level in this issue. Due to an unexpected CHANGE in my life I wanted to discuss the most recent experiences and challenges I've had to face in both my personal and professional lives. It all started in March when the energy around me seemed to turn negative and started closing in on me giving me a feeling of suffocation. My woman's intuition told me something was very wrong. It was around about this time that my husband of 15 years left me and our 2 children with the marriage coming to an end in September. Did I see it coming?...of course not. But my woman's intuition was right so I let go and let God deal with it and prayed that HE order my steps. HE responded by surrounding me with very supportive family, friends, VAs, Anastacia at AssistU and the right people at the right time. There is absolutely no way I could have made it this far without these very caring individuals. I also made some really great friends along the way. In the beginning of the divorce, it was very hard, hurtful and emotional. It still hurts some even as I write this. And I can't even begin to tell you how difficult it has been adjusting to one income while paying expenses based on two incomes. Yes, financially I'm still in the whole. My income was always supplemental income but overnight it became the primary source of taking care of me and my 2 children. My VA practice (Portable Hands) had to sustain us and has done just that so far. This within itself is a HUGE blessing! Of course we had to cut back on lots of things but it has drawn me and my children closer. Although some of the extras and luxuries we once had in our lives are now gone...we discovered that we are not REALLY missing them. Talk about transitioning well! We were able to hold on to some luxuries by my doing a little negotiating. Tsk. Tsk. I'm even dabbling in extreme couponing which has turned out to be a great way for me to stockpile food and households items while saving REAL money. I'm not great at it yet but on my first outing my total was $103 of which I paid $44 and received $3.05 back in change. Not bad for a beginner huh! There have been two times during this major transition in my life that I became so exhausted my body literally shut down and I slept for an entire day both times. But that still small voice inside of me, my higher power, kept whispering in my ear to Keep it Moving and have Faith. Thus far I have been very obedient, developed very strong faith muscles, and things always seem to work out. During this life-changing experience for me, everywhere I've looked, individuals, people, companies, etc. have had to Keep It Moving when faced with change and challenges. When Steve Jobs recently passed away (also co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios), Apple had to keep Steve's vision alive by Keeping It Moving. I also thought about the families in Ringgold, Georgia who lost everything in the recent tornadoes and how they had to Keep It Moving. Moody Radio is currently faced with the challenge of upgrading all their radio equipment to keep some of their stations from periodically going off air. How have they chosen to face this challenge? They pledged $95,000 of their own money towards the $1.5 million needed to upgrade all their radio equipment and is asking for donations from their listeners and the general public to make up the difference. It's called Operation Next. None the less, they had to Keep It Moving. Ironically during this time in my life I was also reading a book by Terry McMillan, named The Interruption of Everything that turned out to be very similar to where I felt I was in my life. My favorite passage is on the last page of chapter 28 and reads as follows: This time I'm not going to pretend I'm the quarterback or the goalie or the last handoff in a relay or the referee. I'm just an older, more experienced member on the team who wants to do her part to make sure we all win. This book is a great read and can be purchased in the resource section at the bottom of this newsletter. I choose to look at where I am right now in life as a new beginning. My life is being changed and I'm being prepared for the next season of my life which I trust to be the BEST. Look out world because here I come! Although change is hard, I've learned that it's an integral part of everyone's life. You can not control or stop it but you can deal with it in the best possible way. It usually means you are being pushed to develop and grow to the next level in your personal and/or professional life. Two of my closet VA friends said it the best, Change is Constant and Resistance is Futile. I know there are others like myself who have had to face life-changing events head on. I would really love to hear your stories and have you share them on my blog at: http://www.portablehands.com/blog You might provide just the right resource, support or tip to help someone else experiencing such a life-changing event. So what does all this mean for Portable Hands? Until the dust settles on my end, the newsletter will be published on a seasonal basis: spring, summer, fall and winter. And I'm looking into revamping some of my services. I'll be sure to keep you posted along the way as you transition with me. Thanks again for continuing to subscribe to my newsletter. It really means a lot to me. Feel free to pass this newsletter along to any small business owner, entrepreneur or solopreneur who you feel may benefit from its content. Much appreciated! Happy Holidays! Katrina Chesney Founder and President http//:www.portablehands.com Most Recent and Useful Posts/Videos Change is Constant Some changes we choose (to start a family or a career change), while others we don't (health issues or a job layoff). Either way, they say the only thing that's constant is change. [Read more...] Change - The Resistance is Futile One of the most consistent expectations is that we should expect change. Change is inevitable. It can come with pretty wrapping and bows or it can come with coldness and stealth. [Read more...] Katrina Recommends: The Interruption of Everything by Terry McMillan Moving and memorable. - The New Your Times Book Review Portable Hands Now Accepting 2 new clients for 2012. Get the help you need to start 2012 with a BANG! Copyright 2011.Portable Hands.All Rights Reserved Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:33:05 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/1VePY/h/_New_on_Blog_Spring.htm Hey , Now that tax season is officially over I can focus on spring cleaning my home office. I use an easy 3-step process that's shared in my latest blog post. It's guaranteed to work if you're committed to working the 3 steps. As you can see I still have a little ways to go on my end. My desk needs to be decluttered but otherwise I'm pretty much on task. You too can work more efficiently by spring cleaning your office the easy way. [Read More...] Feel free to post your before and after pictures on the wall of my Facebook page. I'd really love to see them. Hugs, Katrina Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:48:14 -0400http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/uXt./h/_Virtual_Assistance_.htm Dear , Join me this week for a complimentary question and answer session, where I share tips and insights and answer your most burning questions about partnering with a Virtual Assistant TOPIC: Virtual Assistance - Complimentary Question and Answer Session WHEN: Thursday, April 21, 2011 TIME: 2pm - 3pm (EDT) REGISTER AT: http://www.portablehands.com/events It's not about being a superwoman or superman. It's about being smart enough to know when to get the help you need. It's about leveraging your business for success doing those things you love to do while someone else works behind the scenes. Now don't get me wrong, it's normal to feel a little uncomfortable when thinking about partnering with a VA; especially if it's your first time. As with anything new or different, you need to allow yourself time to learn as much as possible about Virtual Assistance to ensure the success of the partnership. Register now and receive the call-in details! http://www.portablehands.com/events I look forward to helping you leverage your business for success! Warmly, Katrina Chesney Portable HandsMon, 18 Apr 2011 10:43:04 -0400http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/1q.Iw/h/_ATTENTION_ENTREPRENEURS_.htm Dear , For some of you entrepreneurs and solo-service professionals, the thought of partnering with a Virtual Assistant (VA) is a mystery. The idea sounds nice but you're not sure where to even start. You've worked hard to grow a successful business, or maybe you're just starting out, and have come to realize that to truly enjoy what you do...you must get help. So I invite you to join me for a complimentary question and answer session, where I share tips and insights and answer your most burning questions about partnering with a Virtual Assistant TOPIC: Virtual Assistance - Complimentary Question and Answer Session WHEN: Thursday, April 21, 2011 TIME: 2pm - 3pm (EDT) REGISTER AT: http://www.portablehands.com/events It's not about being a superwoman or superman. It's about being smart enough to know when to get the help you need. It's about leveraging your business for success doing those things you love to do while someone else works behind the scenes. Now don't get me wrong, it's normal to feel a little uncomfortable when thinking about partnering with a VA; especially if it's your first time. As with anything new or different, you need to allow yourself time to learn as much as possible about Virtual Assistance to ensure the success of the partnership. Register now and receive the call-in details! http://www.portablehands.com/events I look forward to helping you leverage your business for success! Warmly, Katrina Chesney Portable HandsTue, 12 Apr 2011 10:50:03 -0400http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/RP3M/h/_News_from_Portable_Hands_.htm March 2011 NOTE FROM KATRINA OMG! Things have been changing so fast here at Portable Hands I get goosebumps every time I think about all that has been accomplished over the last month. From producing my very first YouTube video to Going Green in my home office, I've learned a lot and had tons of fun! This month I share the very tips I used to take my home office Green and a really cool quiz that will help you discover your weak spots as an entrepreneur. Enjoy! Katrina Chesney Founder and President of Portable Hands Most Recent and Useful Posts/Videos Do You Know Your Weak Spots? Do you know your weak spots as an entrepreneur? Watch this video and take the short quiz to find out. 11 Ways to Go Green in Your Home-Based Business Most home-based businesses are not looking for ways to create new energy or the next electric car. They are leaving this up to the larger corporations and focusing on other ways to Go Green. [Read more...] Great Resources Virtual Assistance - COMPLIMENTARY Question and Answer Session Date: Thursday, April 21, 2011 Time: 2pm EDT to 3pm EDT Location: Your Phone Line Hosted by: Katrina Chesney ATTENTION: Entrepreneurs, Solo Service Professionals, Coaches, Consultants, Speakers, Authors, or Anyone Thinking About Partnering with a Virtual Assistant (VA) Join Senior VA Katrina Chesney as she shares her tips and insights and answers your most burning questions about Virtual Assistance and partnering with a VA. Register Now! The Social Networking Business Plan Are you spending too much time and effort on social networking? Do you need to develop and execute a Social Networking Business Plan that works. Grab your copy of The Social Networking Business Plan and stop wasting all that time and effort! Copyright 2011.Portable Hands.All Rights Reserved Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:48:03 -0400http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/bL4U/h/_News_from_Portable_Hands_.htm February 2011 NOTE FROM KATRINA Hello All! From Eric Benet' to Jennifer Sparks, I've met some pretty impressive singers this month. Lately it seems my love of music has been the focal point of my extracurricular activities. It's what I do when I need to step away from my business for little while. My full story is below. Plus I share 3 cost effective ways technology can boost public relations. Enjoy! Katrina Chesney, Founder and President of Portable Hands Most Recent and Useful Blog Posts Self Care is Essential in Creating a Successful Business Successful entrepreneurs know that self care is essential in creating a successful business. You have to be in the business of putting yourself first so you can be the best at what you do. You can start by taking small steps like exercising regularly, eating well and getting enough sleep. Or participate in an extracurricular activity you really enjoy...like I do. Here's my story. [Read More] 3 Cost Effective Ways Technology Can Boost Public Relations Today nearly every business has a web site or blog, a list of targeted email addresses, and a Facebook or Twitter profile. Why? Because effectively using these tools has become the most cost effective method for promoting your business. Learn 3 cost effective ways technology can boost public relations in an instant. [Read More] Great Resource Need to know your IP address? Get it instantly at www.ipchicken.com Copyright 2011.Portable Hands.All Rights Reserved Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:07:03 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/jCeB/h/_News_from_Portable_Hands_.htm January 2011 NOTE FROM KATRINA Hello All! I hope your year is off to a great start! Have you mapped out your business goals for 2011? If not, you best get started...we're already a full month into the new year. Have your goals already on paper? Then it's time to put some action behind them. Stay focused and do something every day that will move you closer to your goals. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way just like young Lauren Alaina did. Enjoy! Katrina Chesney, Founder and President of Portable Hands Most Recent and Useful Blog Posts Pursuing Your Dream is ALL About Passion: Just Ask Lauren Alaina Are you taking advantage of all the opportunities available to you in helping you to realize your dream? Lauren Alaina's passion to sing landed her a golden ticket to Hollywood! Where will your passion lead you? [Read More] 5 Business Getting Strategies Although the usual ways of getting business have changed drastically over the last 20 years, these 5 business-getting strategies are still relevant today. [Read More] Call To Action Have you become stuck and unfocused? Contact me to schedule a complimentary 30-min consultation to explore enhancement techniques that can transform your passionate dreams into reality. Copyright 2011.Portable Hands.All Rights Reserved Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:45:04 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/1IAU7/h/Last_Call_to_Register_for.htmJust a gentle reminder to join me today for a complimentary question and answer session, where I share tips and insights and answer your most burning questions about Virtual Assistance and partnering with a VA. TOPIC: Virtual Assistance - Complimentary Question and Answer Session WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011 TIME: 2pm - 3pm (EDT) REGISTER AT: http://www.portablehands.com/events I look forward to helping you leverage your business for success! Warmly, Katrina Chesney Portable HandsThu, 20 Jan 2011 10:40:21 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/1s4uN/h/_Don_t_Forget_To_Register_.htmJust a gentle reminder to join me tomorrow for a complimentary question and answer session where I share tips and insights and answer your most burning questions about Virtual Assistance and partnering with a VA. TOPIC: Virtual Assistance - Complimentary Question and Answer Session WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011 TIME: 2pm - 3pm (EDT) REGISTER AT: http://www.portablehands.com/events I look forward to helping you leverage your business for success! Warmly, Katrina Chesney Portable HandsWed, 19 Jan 2011 10:48:11 -0500http://archive.aweber.com/phsubscribers/TAnN/h/You_re_Invited_to_the_Jan_20.htm Dear , For some of you entrepreneurs and solo-service professionals, the thought of partnering with a Virtual Assistant (VA) is a mystery. The idea sounds nice but you're not sure where to even start. You've worked hard to grow a successful business, or maybe you're just starting out, and have come to realize that to truly enjoy what you do...you must get help. So I invite you to join me for a complimentary question and answer session, where I share tips and insights and answer your most burning questions about partnering with a Virtual Assistant TOPIC: Virtual Assistance - Complimentary Question and Answer Session WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011 TIME: 2pm - 3pm (EDT) REGISTER AT: http://www.portablehands.com/events It's not about being a superwoman or superman. It's about being smart enough to know when to get the help you need. It's about leveraging your business for success doing those things you love to do while someone else works behind the scenes. Now don't get me wrong, it's normal to feel a little uncomfortable when thinking about partnering with a VA; especially if it's your first time. As with anything new or different, you need to allow yourself time to learn as much as possible about Virtual Assistance to ensure the success of the partnership. Register now and receive the call-in details! http://www.portablehands.com/events I look forward to helping you leverage your business for success! Warmly, Katrina Chesney Portable HandsFri, 14 Jan 2011 13:08:04 -0500