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New Newsletter from Nicole-YAY!

Remember if you want to subscribe it only costs you $1.00 and that $1.00 will pay for a lot.

Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

Good morning to my stay loyal fans. I am back with another newsletter. Some fine points. First, I am changing it from the Weekly Newsletter of Nicole on the next issue. I am having problems with it changing in revue. Second, you can now email me with any questions, job offers, or requests or just to talk at this new email address:

nicole-harmon@liveloveandlaughforahealthylifestyle.com.

Yes, I know it is long but it will definitely get you there. The website assigns you the email based on your blog address.

Image from Revue re Writers Work website

Here is the link for the new newsletter:

https://www.getrevue.co/profile/musingsofnicole/issues/weekly-newsletter-of-nicole-issue-4-1119304

https://www.getrevue.co/profile/musingsofnicole/issues/weekly-newsletter-of-nicole-issue-3-1034991?utm_campaign=Issue&utm_content=view_in_browser&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Weekly+newsletter+of+Nicole.

Remember if you want to subscribe it only costs you $1.00 and that $1.00 will pay for a lot. It will go towards the fees for maintaining the blog(s) and also it will go towards gifts as well from me to you.

Don’t forget to look for information on the webinar about blogging. I am definitely putting that together. It will be a Zoom. And again if you pay $1.00 for the newsletter it will also help get that off the ground as well.

Sincerely, thank you from your friendly content writer- Nicole.

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Accepting Donations and New Email Address

Hello. I know it has been a while since we last spoke via this blog. I have good reasons for being incognito. First I was having some problems with my accounts which caused me to close out some of my social media and my freelance accounts. I was getting fraudulent jobs too often where the parties who were interested in hiring me wanted to go offsite. On top they had me open up a bank account and wanted my sign-on information. I thought this was not right because I can give them direct deposit information. But the persons wanted actual access to my account to make sure that it was posted to my bank account. I am assuming that all jobs are the same but any human resources person can answer my question with that: Just how okay was that- them requesting my username and password to the account instead of the direct deposit offered to them?

I did however reopen one account because I lost my Topcontent. And Freelancers.com was the one where I highly questioned some of the jobs offered. However, I did gain a new title: Funds Disburser (for company name). It was a pretty cool title. But this is not the purpose of this post.

To all my many fans and readers, I am requesting if possible any and all donations you can give me be sent to this address:

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=9P8Y6V6LXTJUE

If you are wondering what the money will go to it is this: newsletters, gifts offered, guests and maintenance fees for this website including the email used to respond to your questions.

I hope that you will see it in your heart to donate. I know my family and I thank you.

Here is my new email address for you to send me an email to talk, discuss an issue or request some work from me. You can reach me via email at this email address: nicole-harmon@liveloveandlaughforahealthylifestyle.com. Definitely use it, people!

Also, you can send an email requesting the newsletter. Please be advised that I am charging $1.00 for you to receive the newsletter. That dollar not only pays for one year of the newsletter, but it also goes towards paying my expenses on this blog and the other three. But the money will also go towards helping to fund giveaways, speakers and other events including the one webinar I promised. So if you could see your way to purchasing a newsletter I would be ever so grateful.

To My SUBSCRIBERS….

Thank You!

I just went through my list trying to figure out why my Mailchimp wasn’t working and I saw all your lovely names! From the bottom of my heart I thank you.

I didn’t forget what I had offered you in the beginning. So here is a recap:

I am charging $2.00 per month for a newsletter that will be sent to you with all my current articles and also a special something just for you.

For subscribing- I am sending you a copy of all of my books and a bookmark. I am hoping to also offer you a surprise there as well.

Now that I have you I want to keep you informed. I will be having someone contact you to verify the email for the newsletter.

The webinar, I am hoping to schedule that soon and to be able to give you the information!

Again thanks to all of you!

Office Decor-How do I look? My 2nd Listicle

Please note that some of the items in this post if you purchase them will net me a possible commission. But don’t let that stop you from purchasing it.

For those of us who work from home, we would all like a space that fits our idea of what is comfortable but functional for us, or rather me, to work in, to make money in, for up to and over eight hours a day. Is it any wonder that we want to have as comfortable an office as possible?

I remember when I first started I just wanted to be comfortable but able to work. So I worked downstairs in the family room in front of the big television set we have in my house. There were times I would work from 8 a.m., in the morning to 1 a.m., in the morning. Only to have the assignment taken from me. But I had a little desk to put my computer on and coffee on. I could put my tablet beside me on the sofa. I had a telephone within easy hand reach. Plus a bathroom to use whenever I needed it.

Since my brother has come home, my downstairs office was changed to a bedroom and I needed an office. Wait, I have this beautiful coffee table from where I used to live (an apartment). I used that as a desk and a hassock as a seat. Too low. My next idea was to use my bed as the desk and the hassock as a chair. Still didn’t work.

Now I am just on my bed using this lovely soft desk as my office. See picture.

But I feel it is high time for a change. So, if you are of my mindset maybe you would like some of the same office ideas that I do. Let us check out the items available on Amazon together.

Desks for Small Spaces RVs too

Desks for Small Spaces RV Garage

Pads for your notes to-do lists and article papers

Pens for Your Use

Packaging Tape for Your Boxes Mail or Storage

Double Sided tape

Felt Tip Flare Pens assorted colors

No 2 Pencils with erasers

File folders reinforced tabs

Paper Shredder for your office

Leather Protector Non Slip

Hanging File Folders

Seat Cushion Memory Foam Coccyx Sciatica and Back Pain Relief

Wireless Color Printer HP DeskJet

Label Maker Portable Rechargeable Bluetooth

Self Inking Stamp

Go ahead and check these items out-buy if you really like them. I am buying when able. More to come for you!

My Amazon Finds that I Want to Buy-Maybe You Too, Huh!?

Announcing: My First Listicle-Shopping with Amazon!

Fashion, Make-up and Self Care with Nicole

It is a beautiful Monday morning on May 1, 2023, and I am ready to start this month. Are you? No, this isn’t my social media post but that my friends will be something similar. First I may be changing my cover photo on this blog. Don’t be alarmed- it will just look more like me! Huh- seen too much of people lately huh, trying to figure out the best photo right? Well, guess what you are not done yet because I am one of those too. Yep! But enough about that.

I am on the lookout for good bargain finds-yes, even expensive bargains. I have taken so many clothing personality tests that I choose not to take another. Why? I always come out as a classic, chic dresser. Thrown-in is the casual factor with a shopper for high-quality brands (my add). My mother taught me well.

Sharing what my…

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Back in the Saddle

Photo by Cup of Couple: https://www.pexels.com/photo/flowers-in-vase-placed-near-bed-with-netbook-planners-and-cup-of-coffee-6177653/

It is October 2022 and I am back. Hope you all had a great summer. I was busy attempting to garner work and also every now and then having a nice day or night out. At least that was what it was supposed to be. I actually was not very happy throughout it due to various things inside and outside of my control. It pays to not be nervous folks. Just remember that.

I may be hopefully making a good amount of money per month come next year. I am hopeful. I am paranoid. I have my fingers crossed. When I am done with this assignment I have several others to do. My book reviews all are coming due at the end of this year. Plus my Audible has to be uploaded and sent in for consideration.

Not to jinx me but being a freelancer is a lot of sending out resumes and getting rejected until you make it. And even then you are only as good as your assignment- current assignment. But you know that don’t you?

Photo credit George Milton from Pexels.com

It is almost the end of the year and taxes are coming due. I have made some money but not enough. My hope is that I don’t owe any taxes from this job. Because I will have to pay for it. But I haven’t made that much. Except I believe I will owe taxes because nothing comes out of my check. So how does it work I actually, finally wonder? I do have some write-offs. But less this year than last year. I get mailed a lot of books plus I pay for my books for reviews. Shall see huh this year for real.

Another question, since all of my payments are actually online via electronic payment how does that work for submitting for tax consideration? I know this lady is definitely getting a visit this year. Because this year I have to actually file taxes.

Well if you want to read more about this, stay tuned for the next post about it. But not right away.

8 Exciting New Ways to Transform Your Mental Health

Photo credit from Pexels-samson-katt-5257630

Lately, you’ve been feeling like you need to make a change in your life. It might seem as though you’ve been stuck in a rut for a while. If you’re tired of trying out traditional mental health care techniques with little results, it’s time to experiment with some of these innovative ideas from Live, Love and Laugh for a Healthy Lifestyle.

Adopt a Pet

Have you been feeling lonely lately? If you need some more love in your life, consider adopting a pet. When you adopt a pet, you take responsibility for the health and well-being of another living creature, which can give you a sense of purpose. Zoetis states that caring for a pet can actually lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of depression and anxiety.

Take a Tai Chi Class

You don’t have to be in great shape to take a tai chi class! Tai chi is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It’s a great way to improve your balance and flexibility while supporting your mental health. Plus, you can often find outdoor classes that are held in local parks!

Book a Vacation

Sometimes, you just need a change of scenery in order to feel a little better. If it’s been a long time since your last vacation, you might be due for a fun trip. Perhaps you could travel to see a friend, book a relaxing solo self-care retreat, or go on an exciting outdoor adventure. When you return home, you might realize that you’ve experienced a shift in perspective.

Learn a New Language

Do you often find yourself caught in a cycle of negative thoughts? Suppressing your emotions is not healthy, but sometimes you do need to shift your focus to a different area in order to give yourself some relief from anxiety. Learning a language is a great way to do just that. You’ll feel proud of your new skill set, you’ll stretch your brain in new ways, and you might even make friends with some language buddies!

Go to the Spa

While a spa day won’t necessarily cure anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition, there’s no doubt that it can be therapeutic and deeply relaxing. Maybe you just need to escape for a little while! We tend to hold lots of tension and stress in our bodies, and getting a massage or facial can help you relieve some of that tension.

Breathwork

Maybe you’ve tried out traditional meditation, but you haven’t found it very helpful so far. You might be interested in trying breathwork, too. MindBodyGreen states that breathwork involves consciously controlling your breath to shift into a deeper state of consciousness. This turns meditation into a full-body experience that helps engage your mind.

Optimize Your Home

One path to greater well-being can be to focus on your living space. Clutter can be stressful, so make sure your home is clean and decluttered. It also helps to have some indoor plants around, as well as plenty of natural light to nourish both the plants and you. Lastly, smudge your home with sage to drive out negative energies that may be building up.

Enjoy Daily Tea Time

Human beings crave ritual. By adding a daily tea time ritual to your routine, you will automatically carve out time to relax each and every day. You will always have something to look forward to!

Mental health is complicated. The techniques that help somebody else heal might not work for you. By trying out a few of these different ideas, you can find relief from your mental health struggles.

Live, Love and Laugh for a Healthy Lifestyle offers a wealth of information on travel, health, and more! If you have any questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

I am a Brand Ambassador for Canvas Champ

and I am offering my readers and followers today an opportunity to own a custom gift from https://canvaschamp.com/. You know Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday. Not to mention high school and college graduations as well as graduate school graduations. This is a beautiful thoughtful idea for a gift, Purchase a Custom Spotify Song Plaque. You can purchase it for 10% off of the price of $15.00. But this offer only lasts until June 30, 2022.

Here is the information you need.https://canvaschamp.com/?ref=bb-3z4x9m/ is the site link to go to the sale page of the Custom Song Plaque. The discount code is BBBl9CHF7.

See this video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ce09jN2l79k/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D

See picture:

Pictures of Custom Spotify Song Plaque canvaschamp.com

Should you buy this plaque I will receive a small commission. And I thank you for all your help in completing my mission.

Working with Nature by Nicole Harmon

https://creativecommons.org/licenses-by-nc-nd-4.0/

I work best with music playing but it is not music as you think of music. I work with natural sounds playing in the background. You know the wind, rain, ocean sounds, fireplace sounds, white noise…things of that nature. And it keeps me so focused you would not believe the work I get done.

Currently, I am finishing up my last Daphne Kiss of Death entry. This year has been by far the most entries I have ever judged. I got nine this year. I am so proud of myself for reading them all. All of the entries. I sincerely wish them all the best and I want one of them to final and win. I have had only one of the books that I have judged be a finalist.

I actually stumbled across nature sounds when I listened to Bossa Nova and coffee shop sounds on YouTube. Yes, I am a total YouTube fan. I will watch movies, listen to podcasts, audibles (audiobooks), and news shows, and watch sports, video games, and television shows. It is a smorgasbord of television to watch.

I was thinking I need something, anything to help my concentration. I mean I was reading a book for a book review that I was getting paid for and I kept losing my concentration. So thinking it was me I put it down and started working on an article. While working on the article I started listening to rain sounds. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3dB9dGKr0L25HKO8r6XKkg. See this channel I just posted the link to. Here is another link for you: Note https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjGqISO6V2WFpOFWPC8pIw this is a Spanish channel. https://www.youtube.com/c/EasySoundsRelaxationChannel. This is the third I use for listening.

Pexels photo by Dakota Gillette

The sounds I listen to relax my body because the sounds are what I hear outside my very window. Granted hearing a thunderstorm on a television video is a lot easier to handle than an actual storm for me but it for some reason soothes my mind. I can concentrate because I know what is happening. It is on screen. It is safe to listen to. Nothing can hurt me.

I actually do a lot more work than I realize listening to these videos. My current go-to video is one where the listener can imagine they are sitting or lying down on an RV bed by their window listening to the rain hit the vehicle next to a forest. Believe me, it is very relaxing.

You are probably thinking of this young lady, I liked her so much until now. She seems to be not who I thought she was. I sincerely hope not. I sincerely hope that from this post you can gain one important thought: the thought that what keeps you productive is the one item to keep no matter how many times you transition your position in a company or to a new job. Production matters. Productivity matters. Your output matters. And how you obtain it matters.

I am a writer. I use my computer to not only research a topic but to also type up an article on the topic of research. I use it to take pictures or upload pictures inside that article as well. Sometimes, I stress out because of my computer not working right or because the research is not right.

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My current assignment is to re-write an article to make it fit the guidelines of research. I was told by my editor that it wasn’t what they wanted from me. Since I want to keep this job, I am re-writing it and it will be how they want it. I almost typed hopefully, but it has to just be. The article has to be what they want it to be or they will let me go. And that is a no-no.

So I am going to make some coffee, turn on the nature sounds, and relax my mind and body. I will put my back against the wall (on my three pillows of course), and relax. I will go over what the requirements are and then do some more research. Then re-write it. Then hand it back in.

Since this is a re-write I need to concentrate even harder or it will just be the same mistake I hand back in. This I do not want to do. So not only do I use the above nature sounds to help me relax but I also use the following link(s).

https://www.youtube.com/c/WhiteNoiseTranquility This is the White Noise Channel.

https://www.youtube.com/user/miblej0 This is Althea Renee’s Channel.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCStrRoowHUiwecqmY1xCing And we are back to nature sounds with this channel.

Nature sounds are a good way of lulling your body into a relaxed state. Your body will sync up with the natural rhythms inside the video of the natural world. You have water or wind. You have the crackling of the fireplace. You have the sound of the thunder. Despite the thunder being not consecutive or not constant, the body anticipates the thunder sound and acclimates itself to the eventual clap.

For me, the sounds will allow me to block out unwanted noise. I won’t hear the bad conversation or the constant tapping of the animal that might be hiding in the attic. I won’t hear the scraping of the tree limb onto the roof much less the bark of the dog around the corner who has just gotten lonely. Instead, I will concentrate on the following:

  1. My research
  2. My topic back up
  3. The correction of my answer
  4. My correct answer
  5. My sources
  6. My money.

All important to me and my bottom line. All those lessons on my LinkedIn and on my Facebook will come to help me out. All my lessons in my freelance writing classes will come to help me out. I will write the best damn piece and I will earn every cent of my money.

And the nature sounds will have helped me do it. I am very happy to listen to the natural world. I am very grateful that there are a plethora of videos to choose from. And I am grateful for the job that I am using them to write another better article.

In conclusion, I feel that listening to sounds that relax you give you a sense of purpose and a sense of time. It allows your mind to focus on what is important. Your assignment. This allows you to be productive and create a winning article. And as a freelancer isn’t that what matters? Your output that is satisfactory to the client that hired you? Great output! Listen to your version of nature sounds so that you make that dollar!

Influencers Should Use These Strategies to Find Success by Cody McBride

Once you find your niche, influencing can become pretty lucrative as you work with brands and collaborate with other social media stars.

Photo via Pexels

How do you become an influencer in today’s highly competitive market? The key is to establish what you’re best at while learning all you can about your target audience. They’re looking for someone with similar interests and tastes who can guide them through using different products or making lifestyle changes, so as an influencer, it’s important to create engaging content that speaks to a large number of people.

Once you find your niche, influencing can become pretty lucrative as you work with brands and collaborate with other social media stars. If you have the time to put into the influencer process and think you understand what your audience wants, start by finding inspiration from blogs like Live, Love and Laugh for a Healthy Lifestyle, then read up on how to make the most of your social media presence.

Utilize TikTok effectively

There are many social media platforms, but there may only be a couple that are right for you. It’s important to learn how to navigate each one before deciding on the best choice for your brand since their built-in tools are all a bit different. With TikTok, creators have the opportunity to see their content blow up overnight, so it’s essential to make sure every post is authentic and true to your vision. It’s also important to be responsive to your audience and engage with them as much as possible, and stay on top of trends by engaging with the content that others post. When you’re ready to grow your viewership, set up a TikTok ads account by naming the campaign, setting a budget, and targeting your audience. This will help your page cast a wider reach.

Make online tools work for you

Outside of social media, there are many types of online tools that can be highly valuable for influencers. Want to know who’s talking about your brand? Utilize a resource like Awario, which makes daily sweeps online to find any mention of your name or content so you can monitor the conversation and even join in. You can also branch out with your content by making videos for a YouTube channel. Just make sure your branding is consistent across all platforms and within your marketing strategy. You can use an online banner maker that allows you to input a creative logo, images, and/or text to customize an eye-catching banner for your channel.

Decide how to connect

No matter which channels and platforms you choose to share your message, it’s important to decide how you’ll connect with your audience. If you want to focus your content on travel, for instance, how much of your personal life will you share as you take your viewers along for the journey? Some influencers keep strict limits on how much they show on their professional social media pages, while others feel that giving “behind the scenes” looks can help them form a deeper connection with their audience. This is a personal decision that may change over time.

Create a schedule

When it comes to sharing, it’s a good idea to create a schedule that helps you stay consistent. Do some research on the best days and times of the week to post content that gains maximum exposure; this will vary across different platforms, but in general, your posts will likely get the most attention when shared on a Wednesday morning. Once you have a routine down, you’ll start to see your numbers remaining fairly consistent.

Becoming an influencer is a process that usually takes some time as you build up followers and create engaging content, but with the power of social media, you might find that you’re able to reach your goals as an influencer pretty quickly. Look for inspiration from other creators online and don’t be afraid to reach out and make connections, as networking can be extremely beneficial for both of you.

About the Author:

Cody McBride’s love for computers stems from high school when he built his own computer . Today he is a trained IT technician and knows how the inner workings of computers can be confusing to most. He is the creator of TechDeck.info where he offers easy-to-understand tech related advice and troubleshooting tips.”