tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10052903360787156812024-03-13T02:00:39.832-04:00Jeanne Armonk EnterprisesDigital Media Publishing / Freelance Writing / Freelance Photography Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-69556711104043115882020-07-14T13:50:00.002-04:002020-07-14T13:51:52.301-04:00It has been quite some time since I have posted an entry here. The update on the college front for me is that I changed my programs several times and finally settled upon Business Administration and Art for my two Associate degrees. I am 5 credits away from them both, 1 credit for Business Administration and 4 credits from the Art degree.<br />
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Again, returning to college after 37 years from one semester at SUNY Purchase in 1979 has been a real challenge. I can say that Wilkes Community College located in Wilkesboro, NC has been a wonderful place for me to learn. I was encouraged to apply for SAGE and was approved in May 2016. The support there from laptop and textbook loans, to tutoring sessions, to educational field trips, and much more, has been a lifeline for me to stay in school.<br />
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I am attempting to finish MAT-152 with a C, needed for a transfer program such as Art, is a must in order for me to earn my Associate degree. I have 18 days left and I hope to make inroads there. Of course, the Covid-19 epidemic has created challenges all of its own making. The college is still basically offering online classes and limited on-campus interactions in order to keep everyone as safe as possible.<br />
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<br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-82367088275001696582017-01-26T12:51:00.002-05:002017-01-26T13:04:45.089-05:00My 3rd Semester at WCCHere we are already 4 weeks into our new year of 2017. I will tell you all that it looks to be a very interesting year indeed.<br />
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I am now in my 3rd semester at Wilkes Community College located in Wilkesboro, NC. I found that taking all online classes thus far has been both interesting and challenging. Organization, planning, and structure are all very needed elements to attaining success in both comprehension and assignment completion rates.<br />
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I found the summer semester of 8 weeks really flew by with 3 diverse subjects such as psychology, art appreciation, and business introduction. I completed 2/3 and will need to retake the business course in a future semester.<br />
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My age was only part of the challenges that I found I needed to deal with and overcome in order to have any measure of success. I will be blogging much more this year about my experiences in taking 6 online courses this time around. I became a full-time student as of January 5th and have learned of a number of extremely helpful resources here at the college.<br />
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One very important resource is the SAGE Department which offers materials, tutors, workshops, laptops, and calculators to assist member students to be successful in the college journey to either a diploma, certificate, or degree.<br />
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In my 2nd semester, I actually changed my major from Advertising/Graphic Design to Business Administration. This choice on my part has elevated some stress in that my comfort level with the Business curriculum is much higher than with Graphic Design curriculum. I had never used a Mac until my first graphic design class last semester. It only took one day for me to realize I needed to make a change. It resulted in my earning 3 A's and doubling my GPA. <br />
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I encourage all who wish to return and/or begin a college education to look for ways to do so. I will continue to let you all know how things work out as the weeks continue... <br />
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<br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-43471283301775708192016-05-25T09:27:00.000-04:002016-05-25T09:41:52.971-04:008 Days and CountingThere are just 8 more days until the butterflies from homework assignments and tests return to my 55 year old stomach. I decided back in March to return to college to complete an Associate Degree in Applied Science for Advertising and Graphic Design.<br />
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I went to one semester in the fall of 1979 at SUNY Purchase after I graduated from Byram Hills High School in Arnonk, NY. This school has such illustrated alumni as Laura Branigan, Peter Gallagher, Bryce Dallas Howard and Jim Henson's children.<br />
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I had study overload when I was 18 and decided to drop out of college. I entered the workforce as a bank teller making $141 per week. I was still living at home and I bought my first car. I learned a lot about customer service skills and people skills. There is something maturing when graciously assisting customers at holiday time and the bank vault cash is down to ones and fives.<br />
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Now, my field is expanded to my media and publishing skills. I have published several flyers to assist small businesses with revenue and growth. I began the publication, Wilkes County Gazette Shopper in 2015. This year, I have published 2 issues with another issue due out in June.<br />
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This has been a great foundation for advertising sales and design. I am not very technical savvy and I decided going to the local community college would be a great investment in my time.<br />
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I have learned about Pell Grants and Stafford Loans at the local financial aid department. I have operated my publishing business almost as a non-profit so I found I was eligible for the aid.<br />
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I will post again as the enrollment day is ever closer. The butterflies are already swarming.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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JeanneValerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-79399518606048642022016-04-22T10:58:00.005-04:002016-04-22T11:11:43.799-04:00Back To SchoolThis is my first post in quite awhile. I feel badly that my blogger account has suffered due to life changes that have occurred to my life since March of this year.<br />
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I have needed to do a bit of ongoing soul searching to find puzzle pieces to the big puzzle picture that shows the direction that I have permitted my life to take for several years now.<br />
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A great outcome of these changes is the <b>Wilkes County Gazette </b>media site that I publish under JAE and its printed companion, the <b>Wilkes County Gazette Shopper.</b> I had restructured the site to more directly reflect the attractions, businesses and people of <i>Wilkes County, NC</i>. This county has been my home off and on for the past 9 years.<br />
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I think of the song, <i><b>New York, New York</b></i> and the verse that states, "<i>If you can make it here, you can make it any where, it's up to you, New York, New York."</i><br />
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Well, at times, life and the economy can affect one's attitude and resolve to make it any where. I decided very recently that it is up to me to make it here, there, any where...<br />
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This blog will be reflecting my day to day resolve to find and follow through on a new direction in my life. I have also decided to go back to school and finally finish my <i>associates degree</i>. Back in <i>1979</i>, I was beginning a liberal arts degree, now it will be an <i>associate in applied science</i> for <b>Advertising and Graphic Arts</b>. I will be attending the local <b>Wilkes Community College</b> here beginning this summer.<br />
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It is my hope to do well in my studies and learn valuable skills to make my various publishing projects the best that they can be.<br />
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I hope you will return here and let my successes and/or failures inspire you to also examine your life and see if and where changes can be made.<br />
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Until next time...<br />
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Jeanne ArmonkValerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-4226236989131035372015-07-03T11:37:00.001-04:002015-08-22T20:43:33.938-04:00Finishing Touches<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">As the finishing touches are being applied to the layout of JAE's new publication, Wilkes County Gazette Shopper - End of Summer Savings issue, I reflect on the many steps that have been in process from drawing board to printed publication.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Originally, I had conceived the idea to be centered around my Pet News Reporters, Burnie and Katey Rose. Both young at the time, and my having noticed the many print and television ads that depict dogs somewhere within the content, I decided that my 2 shepherd mixed dogs would be both photogenic and inviting.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I have subsequently learned that neither of my pets are as photogenic as my dog Red. Red was perfect as far as photographic canines can be posed for many diverse back drops. Some of Red's work is shown within JAE's website, some on my Etsy.com shops, and some within the Wilkes County Gazette's website.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Realizing that Burnie and Katey Rose would rather be out exploring than posing for pictures, I went back to the drawing board. I decided to let my dogs host the Pet News feature on the WCG website.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Returning to design ideas for the new shopper supplement, I decided to feature the 4 seasons. The first issue is the End of Summer shopper. This actually assisted me with my layout choices within the two-sided flyer. I hope that this flyer will be well received within Wilkes County, NC. It will be even better if an upsurge in retail business results from the couple of thousand brochures that will be distributed within the area.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Money can be saved by the wise use of coupons. Many thanks go to the entrepreneurs, small business advisors and local residents for their comments and questions that have given me much insight into the direction the shopper needs to proceed for maximum benefit to all: customer, business owner, </span></span>and the Wilkes County Gazette itself.<br />
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Until Next Time,<br />
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Valerie Jeanne Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-24377221918900483202015-07-01T13:41:00.005-04:002015-08-22T20:36:46.715-04:00New WCG Shopper Available Soon<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After nearly 2 years since its first conception, the Wilkes County Gazette Shopper will be available in a print version soon. This idea for a print supplement to JAE's digital media news site, Wilkes County Gazette, has been received with mixed reviews.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have appreciated all the comments and questions regarding this new venture for JAE. I have used coupons since the early 1990s. I have saved hundreds and hundreds of dollars over the past 2 decades by shopping with coupons.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have used a series of coupon envelope files. I have perused many store circulars for weekly specials. I have researched specials and coupons as a joint venture for maximum savings for Living On A Budget. This WCG column shows readers where savings can be found from A to Z.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">All this research has culminated in a brand new publication to be distributed in the Wilkes County, NC area next month. Designed to assist both shopper and merchant, there is an effort to encourage shopping within Wilkes County and Shop Local. This is the perfect environment for a shopper supplement that will offer coupons to be clipped and brought to merchants to avail of various specials.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Please click on this link for more about the Wilkes County Gazette Shopper <a href="https://www.sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette/home/wilkes-county-gazette-shopper">www.sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette/wilkescountygazetteshopper.</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Until next time,</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Valerie Jeanne</span></span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-79830838357994294712015-04-28T11:45:00.001-04:002015-07-03T11:45:58.200-04:00Wilkes County Gazette Shopper<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">This is an exciting month coming up for the <a href="http://www.sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette" target="_blank">Wilkes County Gazette</a></span><span style="font-size: small;">. <b>JAE</b>'s digital news publication based in <i>Wilkes County, NC</i> is celebrating its 6th Anniversary since its first publication in May 2009 under its former name, <b><u>The Wilkes Gazette</u></b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">In conjunction with this anniversary event, the Wilkes County Gazette will be soon publishing its long awaited shopping supplement. This new publication will be highlighting savings to customers that are being offered by local businesses, merchants and restaurants.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Hopefully, this new shopping supplement will benefit both businesses and patrons in the Wilkes County area. This link will bring readers to the advertisers and sponsors page on the <b>WCG</b> website <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette/home/advertiser-listing?pli=1" target="_blank">https://sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette/home/advertiser-listing?</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Until Next Time,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Valerie Jeanne</span><br />
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<br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-18006316359323347782015-02-09T15:29:00.000-05:002015-07-03T11:44:29.034-04:00Passive Income Sources<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This post is going to be the first of a series of posts that will examine <i>passive income</i> sources. <a href="http://www.wikipedia.com/" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a> defines <b>passive income </b>as<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"> "an </span><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2px;">income</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"> received on a regular basis, with little effort required to maintain it. It is closely related to the concept of "unearned </span><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2px;">income</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">".</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">I am writing this series in conjunction with my recent experience with joining affiliate marketing programs. In addition to applying for a <b>Google</b> Adsense account, I also have joined some programs with big name companies. This is a learning experience for me in that my ad copywriting skills must achieve even greater depth and skill.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">My 4+ years with owning shops listed on the <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy.com</a> marketplace have given me much experience in ad copywriting. This is a process that needs continual revision. If certain descriptions and benefits are not enticing potential customers to make a purchase, then I know that I need to edit and update each item's personal adjectives both positive and negative. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">In the world of vintage, many items have lost their original shine, glow, appendages, parts and usefulness. Yet, beauty is in the eye of the beholder I have read, and it must be true. I am even amazed at items that stay in the shop for over a year or 2, and items with flaws will sell in a couple of months or less.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">Timing, supply and demand, and the economy all play roles in each item's time frame on when, and if, it will be purchased by a buyer to my shops.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">In contrast to sales that require much attention, marketing and detail, affiliate marketing initially requires much thought and planning and research and then it stands on its own merits for weeks and months to come. Big name company products that are in demand do not need much help by me in their sales stats, however, it is up to me to drive traffic to my websites in order to earn potential passive income in commissions.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">This is one form of passive income. I will be adding posts for you all to read and share as my experiences grow with this new form of sales marketing. I do not have to produce a product because they are already for sale on the web by their stores. I do have to put effort in to direct marketing techniques to drive traffic to the links that I have pasted on my various web platforms. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">Until next time,</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">Valerie Jeanne</span></span></span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-10877131533493937892015-02-02T21:00:00.001-05:002015-02-02T21:20:43.179-05:00Accomplishments Journal - Updating Websites<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">One task that I have been putting off is to take the time to update my websites. In this, I refer to updating my many user names and passwords on websites that I have accounts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This year I decided to go back to the old-fashioned method of pen and paper. I began an accomplishments journal this year. I decided that I have written a plethora of to do lists through the years, so now this year, I am adding an accomplishments journal. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This journal will actually be a set of composite notebooks. I am already receiving benefits from this journal. I have at my fingertips a listing of what I am actually crossing off on my to do list. Mundane tasks like grocery lists and cleaning item refill lists I do not need to track. However, major accomplishments are what I wish to keep for down the road. For days when I am sluggish in my motivation, a glance at this journal is already giving me the impetus to see that I can reach small goals.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The journal is also assisting me in setting time frames for future projects. I often have procrastinated on the more daunting tasks that I need to tackle in the course of a year. i.e. yearly tax returns that I always complete myself. I will note here, that in the last few years, I began e-filing my returns. </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This process has involved the locating of the necessary tax forms and the researching of tax preparation software. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The first website account that I updated this year was for my e-file tax service. This started the ball rolling with updating my email accounts. I decided to change passwords on all of my accounts. This is a tedious, time consuming task. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, I know that as the year progresses, I will be glad that I updated my various website accounts. This was also the time for me to update and review all my profile and settings information. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It is amazing how many website accounts one might need to update! These accounts run the gamut from book clubs to club memberships to contests to email accounts to social media and tax services, and much more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I decided to put all these accounts into a small notebook so that I can have them at my fingertips. Realizing that this is a lot of information in one place, I keep finding new locations to store it. At 54, it is easier for me now to go to my notebook, look up the account name, and then input my user/password information to log in to the accounts as needed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am hesitant to save my password and when prompted to save? I usually click no. I prefer to re-enter my login information each time I need to access one of my website accounts. You may have a different system. For 2015, this is the system with which I am working to assist me with my accomplishments journal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Until next time,</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Valerie Jeannne</span></span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-26490173173488634652015-02-01T22:12:00.000-05:002015-02-02T21:04:18.787-05:00Resolutions Continued<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, how are we all doing with our resolutions one month into 2015??? I have to say that my publishing deadlines for my 2 news media sites have been met thus far. In fact, please visit these sites by clicking the links here for the current articles and features for the February 1st editions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sites.google.com/site/burkecountygazette" target="_blank">Burke County Gazette</a>, <a href="http://www.sites.google.com/site/wilkescountygazette" target="_blank">Wilkes County Gazette</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This is one resolution that I am striving to meet in my commitment to publish these 2 sites bi-monthly. I divide my time during the year between these 2 counties and both have much to offer to residents and visitors alike.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The recession is slowly receding in favor of more employment opportunities in many parts of the country. However, there are still limited opportunities in this area of North Carolina for those who do not wish, or cannot make, long commutes to work places.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I will continue to provide information this year as to community resources and avenues for our readers to supplement incomes. This is something that I have needed to research both personally, and for the community. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This year I am also endeavoring to learn more about the opportunities for affiliate marketers. I have added a new page here to update my readers with information as I learn myself.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I have joined Rakuten Linkshare and ClickBank to learn more about the opportunities that may exist for entrepreneurs and publishers. I began this blog in April 2009 and I have been most happy to be blogging here on Blogger.com. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There may be other sites out there to host web pages, however, I will try to keep JAE on these pages for as long as I am able to accomplish my blogging and publishing needs. There are wonderful templates here within template designer. There are quite a few options to enhance my blog with Add a Gadget widgets.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So, please keep reading along with my posts. Please subscribe by email. I appreciate your comments and feedback as I continue to post here information based upon both my research, and my personal experiences with digital media publishing, online retailing, and now, affiliate marketing.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Until next time,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Valerie Jeanne</span><br />
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<br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-43037032508154607252015-01-14T23:49:00.001-05:002015-02-02T21:04:26.625-05:00Promising New Year<span style="font-size: large;">I<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> hope that all are ready to join me in what I hope will be a promising new year. I have made many resolutions over my lifetime each January. Some resolutions I did hold for awhile, however, by far and wide most of my resolutions did not even begin.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I took some time away from this blog and my other Google Sites to spend some end of year time on my 3 Etsy.com sites, <a href="http://www.wilkesvintagefinds.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Wilkes Vintage Finds</a>, <a href="http://www.valjeannephotography.etsy.com/" target="_blank">ValJeanne Photography</a>, and <a href="http://www.jeannesemporium.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Jeanne's Emporium</a>. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy.com</a> is based in Brooklyn, NY. This E-Commerce website is a marketplace that has over 800,000 shops selling vintage, handmade and supplies. I have 1 vintage shop and 2 shops that sell handmade items. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Now that 2015 has arrived and proceeded, I want to make a resolution to bolster my 4 media/blogging websites. I am undertaking a large project in publishing these sites bi-monthly beginning in February.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I hope that you will click on the tabs to my links for the 3 Etsy shops and the 3 Media Sites. I am also enabling commenting this year, so that I may benefit my readers with up-to-date informative and engaging web content.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A good agenda planner is a vital component to my scheduling needs. I have already purchased 4 books to assist me in becoming more adept at multitasking this year. Adding to my schedule, affiliate marketing with <a href="http://www.clickbank.com/" target="_blank">ClickBank </a>and <a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a>. I will write more about these endeavors in future posts.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Until next time,</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Valerie Jeanne</span></span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-28236136126518055532014-10-09T22:52:00.002-04:002015-02-02T21:04:35.375-05:00Who Moved My Cheese? Ever Timely <span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">In <strong>2003</strong>, I was given a copy of <strong><u>Who Moved My Cheese?</u></strong> written by <em>John Spencer, MD.</em> Eleven years later, I still marvel at the ever timely advice that this book presented to its readers. It inspires many of us that are currently facing a change in our life circumstances.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">At the time I received <strong><u>Who Moved My Cheese?</u></strong>, the non-profit corporation to which I was employed as a customer service representative (CSR), was facing some reorganizational changes. One of the vice presidents gave each employee a personal copy of this book. She felt the book would assist each of us to embrace the new changes ahead. Most of us were not familiar with the story which proved to be very interesting reading.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The premise consists of 2 people and 2 mice who have a room full of cheese to eat. The simple story may have seemed a bit like a child's book, however, the fears and complexities of each character in the book could easily characterize any person, old or young, who is facing something new.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The cheese moves during the story and does not return to the initial room. Basic survival is at stake if the 4 characters do not venture out of the room to find the new location of the cheese. In the end, it was the 2 mice, <em>Sniff </em>and <em>Scurry</em>, who embraced the change first. Sniff and Scurry eventually went on to find the new location. <br />
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After a time, the 2 humans, <em>Hem</em> and <em>Haw</em>, consider venturing out. By the end, all have left the room for the uncertainty ahead to locate the cheese. Change can be very unnerving. It can also be the bridge to success. Circumstances and personal attitude factor greatly in one's transition to a new situation.<br />
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A few months after I received the book, I left the non-profit company. At the time, I did not embrace some of the company's new changes very well and decided to resign. That being said, my personal life met with a few disappointments after that including a divorce.<br />
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In <strong>2006</strong>, I embraced a major change by moving from the NY/CT metro area to relocate in North Carolina. A sudden change in circumstances made the move short-lived and I returned to New York. <br />
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In <strong>2008</strong>, I relocated once more to North Carolina. Now, I have lived here for the past 6 years in the lovely northwestern part of the state. The mountain views are just breath-taking!!! <strong>NASCAR</strong> and <strong>LOWES Home</strong> <strong>Improvement</strong> both got their starts here. <strong>TYSON</strong> and <strong>WINDOW WORLD</strong> are also major corporations in this area.<br />
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In <strong>2009</strong>, I made a career change myself to finally become <em>self-employed</em>. This has been quite challenging for me who was used to my former set hourly jobs and steady pay checks. I decided to use my down time to learn all I could about <em>entrepreneurships. </em><br />
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The local <em>Small Business Center (SBC</em>) located in <strong>Wilkes Community</strong> <strong>College</strong> in <em>Wilkesboro, NC</em> has proved to be invaluable. The tireless assistance from the staff is excellent. The <em>SBC/Continuing Education</em> seminars (BTW <em>are </em>FREE) have run the gamut in small business topics from <strong>A</strong> to<strong> Z</strong>. <br />
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In 2010, I also opened my first <em>Internet Retail</em> shop on <strong>Etsy.com</strong>. This modest shop has made 235 sales to date. I named my shop <strong>Wilkes Vintage</strong> <strong>Finds</strong>. This Internet retail shop has offered for sale many diverse items from A to Z as long as they have been 20 years or older per Etsy.com guidelines. <br />
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Incidentally, the shop has assisted me in honing my own writing and photographic skills. The need for descriptive listings and clear pictures are necessary to attract prospective buyers and close sales.<br />
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In <strong>2012</strong>, I acquired the <strong>Wilkes Gazette</strong> company from my former editor. I underwent surgery in <strong>2013</strong> and the digital newspaper had few issues that year. This year, I renamed the newspaper, <strong>The Wilkes County Gazette</strong> and gave it a facelift and an overhaul.<br />
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I am embracing change once more to add a printed flyer for free distribution to the public entitled <strong>Wilkes County Gazette Shopper</strong>. Hopefully, this new publication will be available soon.</span></span><br />
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As I reflect a bit before advancing in my endeavors, I cannot but thank my former company vice president for her gift of <strong><u>Who Moved My Cheese?</u></strong> for its ever timely advice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times;"></span><br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-57069493957890969252014-04-20T22:05:00.001-04:002015-02-02T21:04:44.003-05:00Expanding Our Horizons<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As 2014 progresses along, JAE has expanded its projects to include a new shop on Etsy.com named ValJeanne Photography. This shop features digital images for sale as instant downloads for buyers with Etsy accounts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Valerie Jeanne Hynson a/k/a Jeanne Armonk has been taking pictures since grammar school when she received her first Kodak instamatic camera outfit. She made great use of that first camera by taking photos of her family, the family pets, and vacation moments.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">She was a Brownie and a Junior Girl Scout. She began working on merit badges for her sash. This included obtaining a My Camera Badge. She worked diligently to take photos of all the required subject matters and finished the list while on a family vacation trip to Washington, D.C. in April 1971. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That was a memorable trip in the viewing of National Monuments and of the famous cherry blossoms that were blooming that month. One photo requirement was that the photograph needed to be taken through branches. The required photo ended up being one that depicted the Jefferson Memorial through nearby branches beautified with lovely </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">cherry blossoms.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That family vacation ended with a trip to the National Zoo. One photo of a gorgeous lioness who resembled Elsa of Born Free and one photo of a lovely Siberian tiger completed the badge requirements.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well, a number of cameras later, and now in the digital camera age, Valerie Jeanne has taken thousands of pictures of all manner of subjects, particularly of nature and pets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When Valerie Jeanne a/k/a Jeanne Armonk began writing/reporting for The Wilkes Gazette (Wilkes County, NC), she took many photographs for feature articles. Valerie Jeanne took her dog Red with her for several years to many places in Wilkes County for her column Jeanne's Travels that highlighted pet-friendly recreation and activities available to pet owners and their dogs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Red was a large dog weighing close to 135 pounds, yet he would wait by the car in the morning as if to say, "Where are we going today?" Valerie misses her big dog and faithful companion who passed away in 2013. Now, her newest dog Burnie will have big paws to follow as they begin a new circuit of travels.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I hope that you will visit ValJeanne Photography at <a href="http://www.valjeannephotography.etsy.com/">www.valjeannephotography.etsy.com</a> to view Valerie Jeanne's photos. Several of Red's photos have garnered some admirers. They traveled between New York and North Carolina a few times in the recent years. There will be more articles regarding their traveling experiences in future blog posts.</span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-18888238940474220122013-11-23T09:55:00.003-05:002015-02-02T21:05:06.269-05:00Wilkes Vintage Finds November Sale <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My vintage Internet retail shop, <em>Wilkes Vintage Finds, </em>has entered its 4th year in business. To celebrate this ongoing endeavor, the shop is holding a 50% OFF NOVEMBER SALE which runs through <strong>November 30, 2013</strong>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The <em>coupon code</em> at Etsy checkout is <strong>NOV50</strong>. By inputting this coupon code, the item will receive a <strong>50% off</strong> discount off the regular price. I have found during the past 3 years, <strong>202 sales</strong>, that the majority of Wilkes Vintage Finds' sales transactions included a coupon code being inputted at checkout.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It holds consistent that many <em>prospective</em> <em>buyers </em>love a bargain! I once offered a 50% Off sale and then the next month a 40% off sale. A prospective buyer of a vintage <em>Panasonic </em>radio convoed me (emails are called convoes on the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">www.Etsy.com</a> website) and questioned me about the difference in the percentage of the sale. I replied to her that I offer different sales though out the year. She agreed to the 40% off sale and purchased the radio.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I have learned a great deal about Internet retailing in these past few years. As a buyer myself, I also love to find a bargain... As a freelance writer, I began writing<em> Living On A Budget</em> for<strong> The Wilkes Gazette</strong> in <strong>2009</strong>. I have been reluctant to purchase items that I know I might find more inexpensive somewhere else.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I keep this in mind when I am pricing my retail items. If they have blemishes, and many vintage items over 20 years old have at least one, that will reduce the asking price. Shipping costs must also be calculated and are based on weight, dimensions and shipping zones when shipping via the <strong>United States Postal Service (USPS)</strong>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Last year, I utilized the <strong>USPS Regional Rate Priority Boxes</strong> for the first time. There are <strong>A,B </strong>and<strong> C shipping </strong>boxes. The USPS also offers<strong> Flat Rate Priority, First Class Parcel, Media Mail, Standard Post and Express Mail Services. </strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I recycle boxes and packing supplies as much as possible. This is both environmentally friendly and keeps shipping costs down for the customers. Every roll of carton sealing tape, bubble wrap, brown paper and even boxes can add to the shipping costs. Then, there is the drive to the Post Office if not Priority or Express where a pickup by the local mail carrier can be arranged at no further cost to the shipper.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I mention this because who doesn't love <em>free shipping</em>??? However, if the item for sale is just a couple of dollars, it may not even cover the shipping cost for the seller. For example, I ship with tracking confirmation. This is free with Priority, but an additional $0.90 with First Class Parcel. Regular First Class does not offer Tracking Confirmation, so even a photograph which may mail for $0.45, needs to go First Class Parcel to add tracking. The $0.45 cost is now $3.31. My shipping costs listed on item descriptions begin at $3.00 and each item contributes to the purchase cost of carton sealing tape, bubble wrap and photo mailers as needed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So, please visit Wilkes Vintage Finds at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/wilkesvintagefinds">www.etsy.com/shop/wilkesvintagefinds</a> and see all that is for sale. There are over 800,000 shops worldwide that are listed on Etsy.com. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Until next time...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Jeanne Armonk</span></span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-26442167662673752882013-11-11T18:34:00.001-05:002015-02-02T21:05:15.182-05:00A New Digital Media Site<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">This month Jeanne Armonk Enterprises has unveiled its latest endeavor in a new digital media web site entitled <strong><u>Burke County Gazette</u></strong>. This site will highlight and promote people, businesses and attractions in Burke County, NC. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">The web site can be visited at <a href="http://sites.google.com/site/burkecountygazette" target="_blank">http://sites.google.com/site/burkecountygazette</a> . Similar to the format of its sister web site, <a href="http://www.sites.google.com/site/wilkesgazette" target="_blank">Wilkes-Gazette</a> which highlights people, businesses and attractions in Wilkes County, NC. The Wilkes-Gazette was first published in 2009. Please visit the tab Wilkes Gazette to learn more about that site.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">The Burke County Gazette is in its early stages and will be increasingly adding to its content. There will be subpages under many page titles to differentiate between towns within Burke County.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Please visit the tab for Burke County Gazette to see more about that digital media site.</span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-83160570816604680692013-02-19T11:47:00.001-05:002015-02-02T21:05:27.034-05:00My Beloved Red<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Jeanne Armonk and Red...now just Jeanne Armonk. When I became a freelance writer 4 years ago, I had my dear Red by my side. We did many things together. He patiently went with me on many of my writing expeditions. Red was a good listener. He was very patient. He was a continual source of comfort and encouragement to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, Red didn't know when listening to me proofread one of my articles whether my grammar was correct. Yet, he would thump his tail anyway just to acknowledge my efforts. We would sometimes spend an afternoon at the local Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir located here in Wilkes County. I liked to write from within a picnic cabana near to the boat launch area below the Visitor Assistance Center.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I thought we were blessed to have such a wonderful open air office in which I could write under many different colored skies. One day the lake would be glistening and moss green from reflecting the many pine trees surrounding it. Another day, the sky would be looming grayish and angry with bright white bolts of lightning seemingly aimed down into the middle of the lake. Red and I would often take short walk on the nicer days down by the water's edge. Then we would hike back to the cabana and have lunch at one of the picnic tables inside. Okay, Red would be lying by the table and waiting patiently for his lunch. I would bring food and water for him and me both. Afterwards, it was time to get to work I would write and write and write! Along with the territory of writing and editing columns for The Wilkes Gazette, I would also put my amateur photographer skills to good use.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How I will miss my beloved Red for a very long time to come... </span><br />
<br />Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-893270375053341512012-03-14T17:46:00.002-04:002015-02-02T21:05:41.638-05:00Goals and Good Intentions<span style="font-size: large;">Now that several weeks have again passed by since my last post, honestly, where does the time go??? I reviewed my calendar and events and deadlines and learned that I did not set aside enough time for certain projects.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wilkes Vintage Finds just made its 91st sale today, not counting several orders that were canceled this past year for various reasons. I am proud of this little virtual shop that is now 1 year and 5 months old. There is a lot of competition on the Internet for sales. Ebay is very large and has items of all sorts up for bid. One large difference between Ebay and Etsy is that Etsy sets a price and it sells when a buyer makes a purchase. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have sold items in under 30 minutes of listing them online and I have sold items that have been listed for a year. Sometimes, I debate whether to renew an item after 4 months, I usually list the item again any way. You never know what will appeal to a buyer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have found that holding sales and offering coupon codes for discounts or free shipping often make the difference. However, editing these listings for sales and coupon codes is time consuming. When you have over 150 items that need editing, even a fast typist needs to concede the hours of time necessary to make the changes. I have keyed data entry over 9500 keystrokes, yet it takes me hours to proof read and toggle the pages.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, what about my writing projects, well you see I am just posting again today on this blog. I have managed to keep up with Twitter. I wrote two articles for the Wilkes Gazette. However, HubPages and Examiner have nothing recent from me. So, this week I am putting the emphasis on these websites to add several articles by the weekend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope that my readers are able to pursue their goals and make the steps to attain them. There are 168 hours in a week and taking away sleeping time for me 8 hours a night, that leaves 112 waking hours in a week. It is back to the daily planner and weekly calendar for me to reassess my writing goals and how best to attain them,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">BTW, I have been soda free since my last post. It has been a challenge, but I feel more energized and less sluggish without soda. Maybe, all the additional water that I have been drinking has been a definite plus...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jeanne</span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-34194050263041326302012-02-18T21:36:00.004-05:002015-02-02T21:05:55.102-05:00My Goals for 2012<span style="font-size: large;">Well, it has taken more than one week to write down my goals for 2012. I find every year starts with so many expectations to be fulfilled. Then, the year is gone and just a fraction of my expectations seem to get realized. In considering my goals, I found I also had to consider what prevents me from accomplishing them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On my list was prioritizing my projects in order of deadlines. This year, I have much writing to do with my wonderful blog. Then there are my 3 columns for The Wilkes Gazette online newspaper at <a href="http://www.wilkes-gazette.com/">http://www.wilkes-gazette.com/</a>. In addition to writing Living On A Budget and Restaurant Reviews, I am particularly passionate about my column Jeanne's Travels. In this column, my dog Red and I visit pet-friendly places around Western North Carolina. We made a recent visit to the beautiful and environmentally-friendly Western North Carolina Visitor Center located off Rte 421 in North Wilkesboro, NC.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also need to plan out and write articles for Examiner.com. My column is entitled Winston-Salem Frugal Living Examiner which ties in nicely with my Living On A Budget column. I have found so many ways to stretch budget dollars and I am very happy to share these tips with my readers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">More recently, I have begun writing Hubs for HubPages.com. I am researching and writing articles about vintage items. In particular, those that can be found on Etsy.com on which I have a vintage shop, Wilkes Vintage Finds. The shop takes many hours of time with research, copywriting, customer emails, and shipping. I have learned to offer sales throughout the year and editing item descriptions can take up many hours in a week. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I quickly saw two weeks ago, that time management is crucial. I have had much training in the customer service and administrative assistant positions that I have held in the past. Customer inquiries that needed to be answered in a timely manner, performing background checks, typing documents, submitting reports, etc. that all had deadlines to be met, or ideally, exceeded. Many of those jobs also included answering phone calls and emails. Time for those tasks also had to be included in the mix of each day's agenda.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am grateful for the many wonderful managers and co-workers who assisted me with time management planning. Some of that assistance came in the form of attending seminars and watching videos. My goals this year will only be met if I remember and apply all of my useful time management training.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A calendar and a daily planner are crucial. I mentioned in my last post the need for me to write mainly in pencil. Things that must remain constant such as deadlines for articles, time periods to hold Etsy sales, necessary paperwork and tax returns all require ink in the planner. The ink is for me to remember to keep focused on the exact amount of time that I can give to certain tasks. Other things may have more latitude in which to to work with as far as time constraints are concerned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have a weekly goal of 1 article per week for my 3 columns in the Wilkes Gazette. I have a daily goal of 1 article for HubPages. I have a goal of 3 articles per week for the Winston-Salem Frugal Living Examiner. Again, these articles will each take time to plan out and research. If photography is needed, then even more time must be given to those particular articles.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have personal weight and diet goals that include my finally giving up soda. I have a particular weakness for Mountain Dew and Coca-Cola. However, the carbohydrates (sugars) and the calories are not conducive to my losing weight. In other words, the soda is not beneficial to my new diet regime. I am not particularly fond of fruit, although I am very fond of vegetables. I particularly like the green vegetables such as kale, spinach, peas, green beans and more recently, baby brussel sprouts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also have exercise goals for walking and muscle-toning now that I am over 50. Much of my past walking exercise has been in towns on city sidewalks. Now, that I am in the country again where loose dogs are quite common, I am looking into other forms of exercise and muscle-toning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know, to be successful with my goals and agenda this year, that I will need to be balanced. Exercise and a good diet are two of the basic components for being balanced. Also, I learned in the office world, short breaks can do wonders to clear one's head and keep one focused on the tasks at hand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the next few weeks, I will continue to post about how things are going with my strategies for success. February is already half over and there is no time like the present to get started. I am happy to say in this past week, that I was able to work on my Etsy shop, write an article for Examiner, write this post, and finish my last bottle of soda...for now. What do they say, "Baby steps!".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until my next post...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jeanne</span>Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-38405601185913582562012-02-04T00:34:00.002-05:002012-02-04T00:39:59.785-05:00A New Year Has BegunHello to everyone. A very happy belated 2012! A new year has begun.<br />
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Well, now that January has come and has gone, it is a good time to see how our new year resolutions are going. If we have not yet set goals for ourselves, then it is still not too late to jot some goals down on a piece of paper. Why not post these goals on a bulletin board, the fridge, the desk, etc. I have found it is easier to remember my goals when I can see them each and every day.<br />
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I have my usual weight, exercise, reading, budget and travel goals. However, this year I have special goals for my writing and my Etsy shop, Wilkes Vintage Finds.<br />
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Time is always a concern and a difficult concept to reign in and manage for me. I live by to do lists to assist with not letting each day get away from me. I have experienced whole weeks getting away from me without even tackling my goals list. I want better for myself this year.<br />
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After a few weeks visiting family, I realize that January has also gotten away from me. So, now with four days into February, I am planning to write up some new goals for the remainder of the year. I have armed my self with several wall calendars with large spaces for daily agendas. I have my pencils sharpened as I have learned that pen is not a good idea on my calendars. <br />
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A look back over last year's planners showed that I had many days of canceled events and rescheduled appointments. This year, I will use pencil, not ink. As I just turned 51, I have also learned that life throws curve balls and that Murphy is never far away. <br />
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Next week, I will share some of the goals that I write down over the week.<br />
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Until my next post...Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-48619864522346742802011-11-17T17:43:00.004-05:002011-12-10T11:35:52.923-05:00Opening An Etsy AccountThe actual opening of my Etsy account was a simple process for me. I followed the instructions on the seller's page on the Etsy website. Okay, okay the last time I will mention how important it is to choose a user name that is the same as the shop name. The shop name that you want your shop to be identified with your product line, whether homemade, vintage or supplies.<br />
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I filled out the needed online forms following the prompts. I quickly realized that I needed just a few items filled out to actually open the account. This is why my shop is listed as starting on October 9, 2010 and in reality, it started on October 26, 2010 when I applied for and received my DBA with my county deeds office.<br />
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Of course, I then had the option to buy or sell on Etsy. My Pay Pal account has been a great asset in facilitating purchases and sales. I had the option to choose payment methods and sales tax charts. <br />
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It was interesting to me to see how equipped I found the Etsy tools to be. I would have taken much more time to get started if Etsy had not given so many simplified steps in opening my account.<br />
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I encourage again any of my blog readers who make homemade crafts, or have an interest in selling vintage items (20 years or older), to visit <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">http://www.etsy.com/</a> to learn more about the opportunities.<br />
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I have not sold on Ebay as yet although I have friends and relatives who have accounts with varying degrees of success. I like Etsy in that a price can be set and there is no waiting period to close a sale past the time it takes to have an interested buyer make a purchase.<br />
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I listed my first items last November and had my first sale at the end of the month. Regrettably, the first sale was canceled due to mutual agreement on my part with the buyer. However, another sale came two weeks later. In the past year, I have had 67 sales with 5 refunded purchases. <br />
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I again encourage readers of this post who either make homemade crafts, or sell vintage items, to consider Etsy.com as an additional resource. I have discussed a few items that will be needed to open your own shop. The best way to learn more about the opportunities on Etsy.com is to visit the website at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">http://www.etsy.com/</a> and read the information for sellers. There is a plethora of information for greenhorns such as I was last year.Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-75702639979418808902011-11-15T16:54:00.000-05:002011-12-10T11:36:34.456-05:00Your Etsy Shop NameToday, I would like to continue with discussion on Your Etsy Shop Name. It is important. It is a name that should represent what items are being sold in your shop.<br />
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Many people might want to use adjectives which are near and dear to their hearts and personal preferences. I was going to originally name my shop in conjunction with my dear dog Red.<br />
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I have seen Big Red in many genres including books, tobacco, vintage, soft drinks, Hondas, sports and more. So, I decided to leave my big red dog, Red to my literary pursuits. i.e. Jeanne's Travels which is a column I contribute to The Wilkes Gazette. This column highlights pet-friendly places in and around Wilkes County. I sign the column Jeanne Armonk and Red.<br />
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So, after some further consideration and the big blunder that I made initially with my user name, I put Wilkes Vintage Finds to the test. I liked it immediately. I do not know if my customers and site visitors feel the same.<br />
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If you are selling vintage items, then the following words may be useful in putting together your shop name: collectible, collectibles, rare, find, finds, antiques and vintage. I decided to add the word Wilkes because Wilkes County is now my home. The word Finds was an easy one for any bargain hunter and antique shop frequenter.<br />
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Of course, many of the items for sale currently listed on my shop for sale were not found in Wilkes. However, if they were not originally, then they are now residents same as me for having been transported here.<br />
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I will discuss the first step to setting up an Etsy account in my next post.Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-72318171513955021842011-11-07T12:06:00.000-05:002011-12-10T11:36:34.456-05:00The Importance of Your Etsy Shop NameThe importance of your Etsy shop name cannot be stressed enough. So I learned the hard way last year when I was completing the online forms to start a new Etsy.com account.<br />
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I learned too late that the user name that I chose was also to be my shop name. Of course, the name that I chose was a combination of letters and numbers that bore no resemblance to a vintage shop, whatsoever!<br />
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I set up the account. I made my choices in my personal settings options and was ready to chose the shop name when I realized the incoherent user name was now my shop's name. I thought I will just edit it. Nothing doing. <br />
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So, I went through the email process of contacting Etsy to deactivate the first shop. Then, I was able to open a new account with the name for my shop. This time I made certain that my account user name was also the name of my shop.<br />
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On October 9, 2010, Wilkes Vintage Finds was born. At least, the Etsy account. The shop did not list any items for sale until November 2010. I was in need of a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate with my local county for an Internet shop. I obtained the DBA near the end of October. The cost here was $19 which included the cost for the notary republic.<br />
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I had needed to do some extensive research to ascertain if the name I wanted for my shop was already taken. I found other names with Vintage and Wilkes but not together. I also contacted the IRS regarding my business tax id number which I already had for Jeanne Armonk Enterprises. I learned that the IRS said that I was too use the same ID number for the new business as well. Both of my businesses are sole proprietorships. <br />
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I will post more on naming your shop and opening a new Etsy account in my next blog post.Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-63887975044591198762011-11-04T15:29:00.001-04:002011-12-10T11:36:34.457-05:00Freelance Writer Hones Copywriting Skills on EtsyThis freelance writer of 2 1/2 years has been honing her copywriting skills on Etsy. I should say more specifically that I have honed my skills on my online shop's web page found at Etsy.com.<br />
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When someone says starting a business involves hours of work, then I have to agree completely. One of the most important skills that I have needed to muster, in order to develop my shop's website more fully, has been that of copywriter. <br />
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It has been fun, exhausting, challenging, competitive and mind sharpening to say the least! I currently have 124 items for sale on Wilkes Vintage Finds. I have sold 61 items to date.<br />
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It has taken me hours of researching, copywriting, and editing to develop a web page for each of the items currently for sale.<br />
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I have found with time that whatever information that I include on a listing often needs to be updated. I will reassess the measurements or quality of the photos in order that my customers can get a clearer understanding of the size, weight, color, wear and tear regarding a particular item for sale.<br />
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These hours have come and gone. However, I have grown in knowledge as a freelance writer and as a copywriter. The better a listing is written as far as description, history, value, dimensions, etc., then hopefully the more an item will attract a potential customer.<br />
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It is important to be accurate. It also is very important to be honest in one's assessment of an item's condition. There are certain terminologies that pertain to various items whether scientific, literary, NASCAR related, vintage jewelry or the Carte de Visites Photographs that I have for sale on my shop.<br />
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I will discuss more about the importance of copywriting for an Etsy shop in my next post.Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-8109084485234010952011-11-03T18:48:00.001-04:002011-12-10T11:36:34.457-05:00Deciding What Vintage Items To List On My Etsy ShopHere we are already into the 3rd day of November 2011. I am going to be highlighting my Etsy shop, Wilkes Vintage Finds this month in my blog posts.<br />
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Again, it has been a rewarding experience owning an online shop. I have learned much in regards to marketing, copy writing, photography, and shipping these past 12 months.<br />
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I originally thought Wilkes Vintage Finds would be kept separate from my freelance writing. However, I began to realize that the success of my shop would hinge partially on my writing, editing and researching abilities. Hours and hours have been spent on my item listings. Currently, I have 124 items for sale in the shop.<br />
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I have 61 sales showing, however, I had refunded and subsequently canceled 4 other sales transactions. I watched my listings like a hen hovering over her eggs. I learned that like some eggs, some of my item listings would not be successful. I told myself it was okay to let some listings become expired without renewing them. This allowed me to focus on newer items that seemed to gain more page views for one reason or another.<br />
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I have been amazed that some vintage items that had cracks, paint chips and missing parts were still very desirable to some buyers. One example was a 1989 Barrel of Monkeys game. It happened to contain 12 red plastic monkeys along with a yellow barrel. This is like the game depicted in Toy Story.<br />
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However, the barrel had sustained a long crack on one side. I hesitated to even list the item. I was a new shop owner and in need of items to list. So, I decided to list the game. I made certain to take pictures of the cracked side along with the monkeys, the Milton Bradley trademark and the year.<br />
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On Etsy, vintage items for sale are to be at least 20 years old. This game was 22 years old. I listed the item for the Etsy listing fee of $0.20. I was amazed to see the page views mounting and one day, a customer did indeed purchase the game. <br />
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She gave very favorable feedback. She wrote to me the very morning she received the Barrel of Monkeys game. I learned from her positive feedback that she had in mind to use the game for projects (she did not elaborate.)<br />
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So, I have listed some items on my store that are showing wear and tear from age and use. It is certainly true that "one man's trash is another man's treasure." With this in mind, I now have to say that my criteria to list a vintage item is very broad-minded!<br />
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Over the past year, the items that have sold have gone out to customers across the US. At this point, I do not ship outside the USA. As I can more knowledge and confidence, especially with needed customs forms and requirements, I may reconsider my shipping policy.<br />
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Today, I have also added to this blog site a link to my Etsy shop. The items pictured under Wilke Vintage Finds Vintage Items for Sale are part of Etsy marketing tools for sellers. This is an Etsy Mini to assist my readers who may wish to visit the online shop by providing links via the item photos. <br />
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In my next post, I will begin outlining and discussing the steps needed to open a shop on Etsy.Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1005290336078715681.post-74977800370250658882011-10-28T11:24:00.002-04:002011-12-10T11:36:34.457-05:00Wilkes Vintage Finds Has Reached 60 SalesToday I am reflecting on this past year of business my online shop, <span style="color: purple;"><strong>Wilkes</strong> <strong>Vintage Finds</strong></span> on Etsy.com. I am pleased to say that the store has now reached <strong><span style="color: blue;">60</span></strong> sales in its first year of being open for business. This exceeded my goal of <span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><span style="color: blue;">50 </span>sales</span> for one year. This year I plan to double my goal to <span style="color: blue;">100</span> sales for the second year.<br />
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I have learned so much over these past 12 months. Still, I can see that I have much more to learn about online shop keeping. In fact, I have no retail experience at all!<br />
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I have mentioned my shop here in this blog as I have grown in sales experience.<br />
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I first learned about Etsy.com while reading a <strong>Woman's Day</strong> magazine. One of the articles highlighted 10 ways to make money at home. As I perused the various suggestions and ideas for home-based businesses, I focused my attention on Etsy.com.<br />
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I have learned that this Brooklyn, NY- based business was started in 2005. It has more than 800,000 members worldwide. Etsy offers selling and buying opportunities within the areas of homemade crafts, supplies and vintage items.<br />
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It was the vintage items that really caught my eye. I really do not feel that I have much talent with making homemade crafts. I have painted some things and crocheted a few things. That is pretty much the extent of my craft making abilities.<br />
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However, vintage items I felt was my niche. Rather, the selling of vintage items. I have had a number of vintage items pass through my hands through the years. In fact, some bona fide antiques with ages of 100 years or more. I just sold a Canadian Silver Quarter dated 1874. It has an H located on the reverse side near the bottom of the coin. <br />
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I had lived through some tough times were I found the need to sell family heirlooms and gifts. These items included diamond rings, paintings, Tiffany sterling, Mahogany tables, photos and vintage jewelry. <br />
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Often, the selling experience of antiques is a frustrating experience. There are markdowns due to various grading systems, commission fees, criticisms, and not much revenue when selling to consignment shops and antique shops.<br />
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Now, since I have learned about Etsy.com and opened my own shop, I feel that I have more control over my pricing and sales. Etsy only charges $0.20 per item to be listed on a shop website. Also, Etsy only charges 3.5% commission on the sale of an item. So, an item that sells for $100 would have a commission fee of $3.50. A refreshing change from the 25% to 50% commissions that I have been charged by others.<br />
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The opportunity to increase shop revenues can be realized with such lower fees currently being charged by Etsy. Now, aftert one year in business, I am happy to say that Wilkes Vintage Finds had its <span style="color: magenta;">60th sale</span> yesterday. That averages 5 sales per month. For a new online entrepreneur in a very competitive Internet market, I am pleased with my mild success. <br />
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I am going to redirect this blog for the month of November to discuss how my readers can learn how to open their own Etsy shops. As someone who has experienced periods of unemployment in the past, I want to share some of my experiences as a sole proprietor. <br />
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Please continue to visit this blog to see how you also may be able to set up an online shop at Etsy.com. It can be a very rewarding endeavor. Valerie Jeanne Hynsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993502270395181120noreply@blogger.com0