Gratitude, Link Love and Cartwheels Friday

September 4, 2009

It has been quite a week! I busted through so many comfort zones that I am officially in a new zip code. Thanks to all of you for making this an exceptional week. At every step you were there letting me know that it was safe to fall, stumble and yes, even succeed!

It’s Friday and in the U.S. the start of a long holiday weekend. Yahoo! Our weather is lovely and I plan to savor every second of these last few days of summer.

Before I cartwheel into the sunshine, I wanted to share a few things that tickled my fancy this week:

Kickin’ it..Sharpie Style. I found this blog while trolling for a summer art project (okay technically it wasn’t supposed to be an all summer long project but I procrastinated!) and loved it! It’s fun to read about all the ways you can use a Sharpie but it’s also a pretty nice use of social media.

Starbucks 15th Avenue. The rise and fall and change of  Starbucks could fill several business books. The brand continues to make curious steps as it strives to rebuild in a tumultuous economy. This post examines their latest brand adventures. Hit or miss? I’d love to hear your take.

The Big List of Social Aggregators. You know how you want to not only post but grab updates from multiple sites at once? Well there’s a tool for that! This is a great reference list for anyone who has more than one social media account.

My Linking Power Forum. If you’re not up for twitter or Facebook, or you simply long for a more intimate setting where you can share resources and ideas, you will love this forum. It’s one of my favorites, and it is a place where I have met many of the wonderful people I now connect with in other places.

Battling the Demons of Doubt. As you read, you will find yourself cheering for our heroine as she silences the demons of doubt. Emma is brilliant writer who is wicked funny and filled to the brim with heart. Dash over and tell her I sent you.

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend! I’ll see you next Tuesday!

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Easing into August

August 3, 2009

Written by Karen D. Swim

I am sitting in my office on what could be described as a perfect summer evening. August has arrived and with it the heat that has eluded us all year. The sky is clear and there is a peaceful stillness. Even the bugs seem to be moving at a slower pace in an attempt to conserve their energy.

It is the kind of night that makes you want to just sit back and enjoy friends and family, take a dip in a pool, lake or creek (or “crick” as I heard someone say recently) and laugh until it’s so dark you can’t see your finger in front of your face.

I found myself singing an old Gershwin tune and I wanted to share it with you all.  This is the beginning of the end of the summer here, and I hope you take some time to just savor and enjoy.

Summertime,

And the livin’ is easy

Fish are jumpin’

And the cotton is high

Your daddy’s rich

And your ma is good lookin’

So hush little baby

Don’t you cry

One of these mornings

You’re going to rise up singing

Then you’ll spread your wings

And you’ll take to the sky

But till that morning

There ain’t nothing can harm you

With daddy and mamma standing by

Summertime,

And the livin’ is easy

Fish are jumpin’

And the cotton is high

Your daddy’s rich

And your mamma’s good lookin’

So hush little baby

Don’t you cry

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Wednesday Links, Laughs and Loves

May 20, 2009

Written by Karen D. Swim

It has been quite a week! I don’t know about you but I’m all for celebrating the half-way mark. For me it has been a week of being sifted and shaken from every direction. I wish I knew a great joke to share with all of you (come to think of it I could use a good joke in which er you know I’m not the butt of it, got any?), but instead let’s check in with the web happenings of the week.

Stacy Lukasavitz shared a great link this week on rap artist Eminem’s integrated marketing campaign. Like Stacy, I’m not a fan but read with interest how his marketing team is using traditional, social media and multimedia to promote his latest album.  Give it a read and let me know your thoughts – weird or brilliant?

Kelly Erickson snags an interview with the author of When Growth Stalls,  Steve McKee. Learn how Steve failed his way to success. Great insight and takeaways that we can all use.

Joanna Young returned from her spectacular writing retreat in Sardinia and pondered how to hold on to that balance. It is a timely, thought provoking piece as many of us attempt to pursue writing dreams, while funding our lives.

…and if you’re up for some great e-book reads, head over to Smashwords and pick up Flashy Fiction by George Angus and Poke it with a Sharp Stick by the man with the big hat and even bigger heart, Robert Hruzek.

How about you? Did you read, hear, see anything interesting, inspiring or just plain wild?

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Lazy or Creative?

March 9, 2009

Written by Karen D. Swim

Oh My Gosh! I just climbed out from under my rock and realised I have not updated this since people stopped clapping and Tinkerbell died… You would not believe how good I look after all the plastic surgery. Dudes!.

I am lost in a sea of pseudo-olde-english with learning to play lawn bowls, choosing my retirement village, just generally being the life of the party to anyone unfortunate to cross my path, my day is a magical flight from 8am to 11pm at which point I fall asleep on the couch. I am totally loving it, dudes. life happens.

I won’t promise anything to you but I will write something that makes sense soon. Seriously! Seriously?.

By this point, you may be scratching your head wondering if I am out of my head or on medication. The silly post above was generated using the Lazy Bloggers Post Generator. I could have chosen any multitude of options.

I have lots of posts, stories and ideas but thought it would be fun to try new creativity techniques and happened upon this little tool.  Brainstorming and idea generation can lead to breakthroughs in thinking. The process of allowing free thought without censure can help you to move past blocks caused by rational thought. It is also a great way to keep your mind young and your perspective fresh.

How do you keep your thinking fresh? What is your favorite brainstorming technique?

If you’re in the mood for a little brainstorming, try these resources:

• Mind Mapping
• Thinker Toys
• Weird Ideas That Work

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Product Review: Smooth Away

February 15, 2009

Written by Karen D. Swim

For years I have participated in consumer research panels, testing new things and filling out surveys but it was all confidential. When I was presented with the opportunity through FuelMyBlog to test out a new product and share my opinion publicly, I was excited to give it a try.

Disclosure: I am not being paid for the product review. I received the product free of charge and was directed to simply try it and write my honest opinion.

The product I was sent to test is Smooth Away, a hair removal system. Admittedly the picture on the box of a woman buffing hair gave me pause. However, I wanted to honor my commitment to test the product so bravely opened the box.For years I have participated in consumer research panels, testing new things and filling out surveys but it was all confidential. When I was presented with the opportunity through FuelMyBlog to test out a new product and share my opinion publicly, I was excited to give it a try.

The product came with two buffing applicators, one that was slightly larger than the palm of my hand, and a smaller applicator that resembled a doll sized flip-flop shoe. Both were pink. There were five pads in each of the two sizes, a bright green carrying pouch, and a large tube of moisturizer.

The pads were surprisingly smooth to the touch. I pulled the adhesive backing from one of the large pads and applied it to the buffing tool. I slipped the tool over my hand and gently buffed my leg in a small clockwise circle three times per the instructions before moving to the next area. I rubbed my leg and was surprised to find it completely hair free. The smaller applicator was designed for the face and uneven areas such as the knee or ankle. However, I was able to use the large applicator on my entire leg.

I rubbed the moisturizer on my finished leg. I felt a slight tingle but no pain or discomfort. The instructions warn to use a light touch. I did the next leg with a lighter touch and there was not even a slight tingle.

I tried the product under my arms but was unsuccessful. I even rubbed just a bit harder but was reluctant to continue for a long period for fear of irritation. I do not have any facial hair so could not test it there.

One week later, my legs are still silky smooth. I was skeptical but the product lived up to its promise, smoothing the hair away instantly and pain free on my legs. In all honesty, shaving doesn’t bother me much but after using Smooth Away I’d definitely be willing to buy replacement pads and use it again. I like the way my legs feel even a week later and it took no more time than shaving. You can get more information on the product here.

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Five in the Morning

January 9, 2009

Written by Karen D. Swim

When Steve Woodruff gave me the opportunity to get in on the ground floor opportunity of the Five in the Morning franchise, I didn’t hesitate to say “count me in!” Of course  I then realized that his famous Five in the Morning posts really were 5 am. I love reading his posts, but admittedly I am never up at that hour. After unsuccessfully trying to negotiate a time zone that would put me closer to 9 in the morning, I acquiesced. I mean I kind of owe him seeing as how he did give me my dream job. So, without further pomp and circumstance, I’m proud to share five posts that are well worth reading…

Kelly Erickson reminds us that without a map you may miss your stop. Read her insightful post to map your business for success this year.

A new year signals change for many people and in this heartfelt post, Alex Fayle discusses the need to grieve what we are giving up before letting go and moving on.

BrandFreak treats us to a humorous look at marketing strategies by financial giant, Bank of America. Did B of A make an oop-oop-a -doop?

If you or companies you work with are wondering how to Make Your Corporate Blog Work for Your Brand, Not Against It, you will benefit from this social media case study on The Blog Council about how Kaiser Permanente is using social media to build their brand.

If you are still nto convinced on the benefits of Twitter, here’s an interesting story about Twitter’s day in court by Rex Gradeless, Social Media Law Student.

Like this? Re-tweet it on Twitter (just cut/paste):
Get today’s fresh-brewed Five in the Morning fuel from @swoodruff right here: http://twitpwr.com/1Hp/

Follow Steve Woodruff on Twitter

Subscribe to the Sticky Figure Blog

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The Gift of a Good Read

December 11, 2008

Written by Karen D. Swim

In spite of the craziness of my week, I was able to do some super sleuthing and uncover delectable morsels of writing goodness to share with you.  Below are a few of my finds this week that moved me to tears, made me think or just made me go “ahhhhh.” I hope that you will enjoy them as much as I did.

The subject of self promotion was a hot topic this week.

Amy Derby invited guest poster Tim Brownson to tackle the topic in Learn to Sell Yourself.  The post and discussions were insightful, and true to Amy’s brand, raw and honest.

Mack Collier also tackled the topic in his post Is No Self Promotion the Great Unwritten Rule of Social Media? Mack’s post resonated with many readers. Read the post and comments for shared fears, weaknesses and solutions.

Two posts this week moved me to tears with the beauty of their words and the sentiments expressed. Jamie Grove took my breath away with A Writers Love and Steve Woodruff delivers a divinely inspired piece that will fill your heart with hope in Finding Grace.

Kelly Erickson opens her mailbag and tackles the thorny question of holiday cards in business. Kelly delivers her trademark balanced wisdom. Friar and our most beloved James Chartrand pop in and debate and hilarity ensue. I was enlightened and then tickled to death.

There are also big announcements and great things happening.

Joanna Young has invited us to peek in our archives and pick our best post for her Simply the Best year end group writing project. Contributions are due December 24 or 24 December.

Robert Hruzek has a Texas sized surprise in store that you will not want to miss! Stay tuned for the big reveal.

My buddy and esteemed colleague (seriously the woman is a dynamo), Trish Lambert has rebirthed her Not Just For Writers Creative Writing Hour. These writing sessions helped me unlock my creativity and ignited my own passion for storytelling. They are free and you will be amazed by the results. Trish is also offering a free teleseminar, “Freelancing in a Flat World.” Helping freelancers achieve a six figure income is her passion. The telesiminar is December 17th and you can attain details by emailing trish at trishlambert dot com.

For the ahh moment of the week, this video was shared with me by twitter bud @lizwebpage. In case you’re wondering, it is a totally true story, confirmed by rumor buster, Snopes.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNv2A4Kfx4k]

What moved you this week? Please feel free to share your rants and raves in the comments.

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A Month of Giving

December 1, 2008

Image via Wikipedia

Written by Karen D. Swim

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

–Maya Angelou

The month of December often moves at a frenzied pace as we close out the year in our work and personal life while simultaneously planning and participating in holiday festivities.  It is also a season earmarked by giving, so it seems appropriate to choose giving as this month’s theme. This month we will explore:

• Giving to self with gifts that nurture and replenish
• Giving of self in life, and business with time, ideas, inspiration and attitude
• Cause related giving and holiday traditions
• The special non-monetary gifts of the season
• …and more.

In this month of celebration, many feel burdened by giving. Financial and time pressures make it a time of stress and tension rather than liberating freedom.  Combined with the real or imagined pressures of giving the “right” gifts to family members, friends and colleagues can have you decking the halls with prozac instead of holly.

John D. Rockefeller, Jr. famously said, “Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.” The liberation of giving comes when gifts are given lovingly and well. Ditch your “musts” and “shoulds” and give because you can and want to. This season should not feel like one long obligation. Do not be shy about discussing gift giving with family or colleagues.

Many are struggling with tighter budgets this year and would welcome the opportunity to participate in the season without guilt. Start fun new family traditions that are less financial pressure for everyone such as baking together, making handmade gifts, or  trash bag Santa (buy gifts from $1 discount stores and place them in a bag).

Gather your colleagues at work and discuss holiday gift giving.  Agree to remove the pressure of gift giving by doing something for others.  Suggest raising money for a local charity, sponsoring  a toy drive or blood drive or volunteering in lieu of gifts to one another.

Presents are wonderful but the true memories of the season are laughter, love and friendship. Keep that in mind this month and reclaim the joy of the season.

I am looking forward to this month and the joy of giving and sharing with you.  Stay tuned also for a special announcement about a BIG celebration. No peeking, all will be revealed in time.

Live well and laugh often!

Karen

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September – New Beginnings

September 2, 2008

Image via Wikipedia

Written by Karen D. Swim

As I write this, the Labor Day Holiday is coming to a close. I took advantage of the long holiday weekend to do some planning, thinking and a fair amount of relaxing. I sit here now watching the sunlight reflect off the water as summer sings its serenade song. Tomorrow the children return to school and you can sense the quiet anticipation in the air, or maybe it’s just me.

You see, I happen to love September.  No other month thrills me in quite the same way. I am not sure if it the connection to the start of a new school year (which I always loved) or the anticipation of the changing of the seasons, but I really love this month.  My mind seems to expand as the fires of purpose are reignited.  Playfulness is replaced with a focused intent to learn and grow.

As you savor the last days of summer, allow me to share a few of the people and places that have brought me joy this holiday weekend.

Melissa Donovan is celebrating her one year blog anniversary! Melissa is an extraordinary writer whose passion for the arts is evident in every post.  Please join me in wishing her Happy Anniversary!

Steph Vandermeulen has a new look and new attitude over at In Other Words. Keep your eyes on this brilliant writer. Although she is launching a new Editing business, she has the talent to be a bestselling novelist.

Last but not least, Kelly Erickson is smart, funny and has the award to prove it! You will love Kelly’s bright, funny posts. Most importantly, she opens her toolbox and shows you how to deliver world class customer service.  She knows business and she also knows footwear. What’s not to love?

I look forward to sharing this month, this journey of discovery with all of you.  Let us learn, grow and laugh together.

How about you? What does the new month hold in store for you? Feel free to share whatever is on your mind.

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