Virtual Assistant Tip #2

Tip #2 - By approaching seasoned virtual assistants with your questions, in forums or via direct email, you will be able to make new friends and learn at the same time. Many virtual assistants are open to helping, or mentoring aspiring VAs, just don't be afraid to ask.

Note: Some seasoned virtual assistants charge a fee for mentoring new VAs. Please be sure and check their services listed on their websites or blog prior to making contact.

My Casio Camera

Last year at this time we were anxiously awaiting the arrival of our first grandchild so I wanted a new camera to document every moment. Some will tell you I have documented every moment! I bought a Casio Exilim Z1080.

If you enjoy the photos in my blog, they are all taken with my Casio Exilim camera. This reliable camera is with me always. It's not big and bulky like some digital cameras I've seen, plus it takes videos and easily uploads to YouTube.

Animal Shelter Volunteer - Click Article to Read

Virtual Assistant - Tip #1

Back Injury Leads to Revelation
Earlier in my career, I worked as a legal assistant. After suffering a back injury, work was brought to my home by courier. I handled business from my bed, no kidding! The clients and opposing counsel's offices never knew.

Virtually More Productive
I found that by working virtually, I became more productive. I believe it was due to the chaos sometimes found in an office environment. It isn't that I don't like working with people, I really do. It's just that my intention each day was, and still is, to focus on my work and feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of each day.

Virtual Assistant Tip #1
Learn as much as you can about the industry you are entering. Prior to working virtually, I spent my evenings, and my weekends researching online to gain more knowledge about the VA industry and how to work efficiently while being a virtual worker.

The Write Stuff

As I navigate my way around the Internet, there seems to be a common theme for those that will excel into the future with their businesses. That theme is the ability to express oneself, in an engaging way, through social marketing.

It is also encouraging to read about a "comeback" of good old-fashioned writing. Goodness me, I had no idea the art of writing ever went out-of-style! I believe everyone has the ability to find their voice and write. Some feel more at ease with having a writer express their ideas for them, and this is where I come into the picture. How can I help you?

Coffee Lovers Rejoice (and hurry before they run out!

Top 5 Reasons to Read Your Newspaper Online

1. The pages are all in order! No one in the house stole section B!
2. No ink on your fingers and no newspaper to recycle!
3. Find what you want to read quicker and easier!
4. Blow up the size of the text!
and...the best reason to read your newspaper online,
5. No need to run outside in your pajamas to fetch the paper!

Here's Your Link to Online Newspapers

Twitter - An Info-Junkie's Paradise!

Well I have to admit that although I had trepidations about being on Twitter, I am finding that it feeds into my need for information quite well.

I love to learn and I like to add resources to my arsenal for article research and other projects my clients ask for. By following the right people on Twitter, you can gain so much knowledge. I am truly enjoying the experience.

Follow me on Twitter @RainShadowVA and happy tweeting! :)

Happy Birthday GMail!

I am a very happy GMail user, and have been for at least 4 years now. It all started with a simple invitation to join a new exclusive group, jumping for joy over a gig of email storage. GMail has come a long way now and I've never been happier with an email provider.

My top 5 reasons why I love GMail;

1. GMail is a web-based email provider, with my virtual assistant business I can access my email from anywhere, even on my cell phone.
2. GMail offers plenty of storage for all those important emails I want to keep and all the various newsletters I choose to read.
3. GMail allows me to send and receive large attachments like photos which really helps with my clients that are Realtors.
4. GMail has an integrated calendar and task list that work fantastic for my needs.
5. GMail keeps on adding new gadgets and tweaks that keep me oh so happy and it's free to use.