tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-242310342024-03-07T23:42:37.609-08:00Eagle Eye ViewsThis blog will be about my life, the publishing world (editing, proofreading, research, writing), family, relationships, pets, work, and anything else I can think of!Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-77949224198807275332009-01-25T14:43:00.000-08:002009-01-25T14:58:38.869-08:00Keeping ClientsDuring these difficult economic times, many companies are not using freelancers anymore and are keeping work in-house. As a new year begins, it's a good idea to contact and reconnect with your clients.<br /><br />If you didn't send them a holiday card, send them an e-mail to wish them a successful year and to let them know you're there to help in any way.<br /><br />Sometimes a company tightens its budget and doesn't use many freelancers. Now's the time to let your client know that even though you do editing for them, for example, let them know you are also willing to do proofreading or writing projects. If you have a good working relationship with them, you can be assured that they know you're a professional and are quite capable of performing a multitude of tasks for them.<br /><br />We all need to be proactive in keeping our current clients. We also need to look for opportunities to find new clients. <br /><br />How do you keep your clients?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-64093715116039561032009-01-01T13:31:00.000-08:002009-01-01T13:47:27.343-08:00A New Year...A New BeginningI can't believe it's been so many months since I last posted something. I need to make a resolution to post more regularly. But life always seems to get in the way. For example, I haven't felt well since September. I've been going to various doctors to find out what's wrong. It's been very frustrating. It seems it's not just one thing that I can take a magic pill for and then it'll be over with. Oh no...my situation has to be complicated: problems with my blood clotting too much and being "mildly positive" (never heard of such a thing) for lupus, an autoimmune disorder.<br /><br />I've decided to sort of be in denial about my medical condition. I can't let it get me down. I have goals. I have to get on with my life. The doctor agreed with this philosophy too. Imagine that!<br /><br />Each New Year's day, I reflect on my resolutions for the year before to see what I achieved, and to see if it's still appropriate to have as a goal for the new year. I set three kinds of goals: personal, business, and financial. Do you set goals (resolutions)? Do they work for you?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-64458695764714667052008-10-03T10:44:00.000-07:002008-10-03T11:11:02.218-07:00Interruptions While FreelancingEveryone has experienced the rush and pressure of an impending deadline. You're concentrating and are on a roll. All of a sudden, the phone rings and you automatically pick it up. It's your mom. You ask, "What are you doing calling me on my business line?"<br /><br />She replies, "Well I need to reach you right away and I knew you'd be sitting at your computer e-mailing."<br /><br />"Mom, I'm not e-mailing. I'm working, and I'm on a deadline!"<br /><br />"Yeah, but you have <em></em>all<em></em> day." She then proceeds to tell you all about so-and-so and what her new theory is about the cause of her marital problems. Next thing you know, you're calling your sister to tell her of the latest theory. By the time you look at your clock, a whole hour has passed. By that time, you have to check your e-mails to see if the potential client wrote back, then you get side-tracked reading other e-mails. Does this scenario sound familiar?<br /><br />Here are some ideas to stay focused on your work:<br /><br />* Have voicemail pick up your calls. Return calls later. Schedule a time for it.<br /><br />* Make sure your children are occupied while you work. Tell them no interruptions, unless it's an emergency. Give them guidelines of what an emergency is. Set a time when it's ok to talk with you.<br /><br />* If you have <em></em>young<em></em> children, or a baby, work around their nap time. Or hire a babysitter to watch over them while you work. You can also swap babysitting duties with a friend or neighbor.<br /><br />* Tell your spouse, significant other, or any adults in your household not to disturb you. Give them a time when you'll be available.<br /><br />* Don't make any calls when pressed for a deadline. Before you know it, you'll stay on too long chatting and precious time will be wasted.<br /><br />* Don't check your e-mails when you want uninterrupted time. You'll get distracted and start reading other e-mails, then you'll start answering them all.<br /><br />* If you have pets, make sure they're entertained (playing with toys), chewing on a rawhide bone (for your dog), or napping. When pets want your attention, they let you know. Cats can jump on your desk and sit on your papers. Dogs can pull and tug on you when they want your attention or want to go for a walk. Remember to plan around them too.<br /><br />We all have distractions. The important thing is not to give into them (at least not for long!).<br /><br />How do you handle interruptions?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-92088978098564924902008-08-24T13:24:00.000-07:002008-08-24T14:24:01.536-07:00Different Types of GriefMy dad died in 2003 at the age of 76, and my younger sister Becky died last year at the age of 49. I realized something: The experience of grief is different for each of them, just as the grief I'm experiencing for my dog, Toby, who also died last year, is unique from some of my other pets who have died. You wouldn't know this until you experience it.<br /><br />I'm not ready yet to tell how my dad and sister died. I've blogged about how Toby died (see entry of June 15).<br /><br />With my dad, I felt sadness at his loss, but I also felt relief because he had suffered so much from the complications of diabetes. I felt guilt, which will be clear when I write another time about him, and it took grief counseling to help me work through it and put it behind me. I didn't cry as much as I thought I would, and I found it easy to get back to my life. I thought of him often, but he didn't consume my thoughts. I know he had a long life, lived to see his grandchildren born, and enjoyed many years of happiness and sometimes heartache. He didn't talk about his regrets too much, especially about his four kids. Maybe he had them, but found it difficult to articulate them. I felt he had lived a relatively long time and it was his time to go. As time passed, it didn't hurt as much. Some days I don't even think of him. Sometimes I think of things he would say, like "I paid darn good money for that" or "Don't push it!" I have fond memories of him, but some are bad.<br /><br />My sister's death, on the other hand, has been very difficult for me. It's not just because she just died last year. I <em></em>do<em></em> find that things get easier, but I think of her everyday. There is a big void in my life with her loss. We spoke everyday and had long conversations. She was my best friend.<br /><br />Even though we were very different and didn't always agree, we were very close. When we were growing up, we had a lot of sibling rivalry (she's younger by three years), but we were always together. She always wanted to be with me. I tried to do things without her, but she always ended up tagging along.<br /><br />As adults, we were much closer, became roommates, worked at the same place, and went dancing together. Eventually, we went our separate ways with very separate lives, but still stayed close.<br /><br />Now every morning when I drive to work, something triggers thoughts of Becky, especially a favorite song of hers. Then I start recalling how much she loved to dance. My thoughts then drift off to a scene at the dance club we used to frequent and Becky putting on a show with her moves. Every time I think of these things, I get a big lump in my throat and try real hard not to cry, but mostly I do.<br /><br />Sometimes so many things are going through my head on the way to work--problems and trying to find solutions to them, funny things that happened to me (which I always want to tell Becky right away, and it's painful when it hits me that she's gone), or planning my day. No matter what it is, my thoughts drift to Becky, and I cry. I usually get control of my emotions once I pull in the parking garage at work. Ofentimes, my coworkers don't realize I've been crying--that is, until I talk about it.<br /><br />Anything can trigger my grief for Becky--talking to her daughters, being in her house with all her things around, see photos of her (I still can't display any photos of her yet), wanting to discuss something wit her, wanting her opinion, etc. I'm not sure when, or if, my grief for Becky will end. It's easier, but it's with me everyday. It feels like her loss will always be part of my life.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-44887144044585215442008-07-13T12:54:00.000-07:002008-07-13T13:27:48.050-07:00Contacts Can Come in HandyWhen you're a freelancer, over the years, you get to know other people in your field. I've been pretty lucky because I've been in the publishing business for a long time.<br /><br />I work full time as a senior editor in the health care field. I've made lots of contacts with other editors, proofreaders, and writers who work full time and/or freelance. I've worked in many fields: legal, financial, engineering, education, computer, and medical.<br /><br />My rolodex and e-mail address book are full of contacts from various areas of expertise. Whenever you can't take a job, offer to recommend someone else. Before you do, though, make sure that the person is reliable and right for that assignment. Have the freelancer you recommend let you know if that assignment worked out. Follow up with the client to find out if someone (doesn't have to be the contact you recommended) was chosen for the assignment. If not, offer to recommend someone else.<br /><br />Contacts also come in handy when you're working on a project and are striving to finish it in time, but you hit a snag. Even though I haven't tried this personally, some freelancers hire someone else to work on a portion of the job. This is risky. You should be familiar with that person's work. Even if you are, you should review the work, because overall you're responsible for that project.<br /><br />Other times if you're editing a book, for example, the client might ask you if you can do the index. Be honest if you don't have the expertise for indexing. But offer to recommend someone who will do a good job on it.<br /><br />Besides getting contacts from your previous jobs, conferences and professional associations are also good sources. Associations like the <a href="http://the-efa.org">Editorial Freelancers Association</a>, <a href="http://mediabistro.com">Media Bistro</a>, and <a href="http://Linkedin.com">LinkedIn</a> are invaluable. So start networking and compile your contact list. It'll come in handy one day.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-63164061387200315642008-07-04T10:54:00.000-07:002008-07-04T11:32:41.514-07:00Most Dogs Fear FireworksI've only had a few dogs who weren't afraid of fireworks on the Fourth of July.<br /><br />My dog Toby, who passed away last June, was afraid of fireworks. He would stick close to me. When the real loud ones came, he would hide in the bedroom in the corner of the room. And I found out a few weeks ago that my little dog Desi is also afraid of them. I thought, "Oh no! Here we go again."<br /><br />I live around several schools, and after a high school graduation ceremony, the fireworks displays were set off. They were not only beautiful but they were also very loud. They sounded like explosions. Desi was outside at the time and I was watching TV. He walked in fast. I spoke to him calmly, but he ignored me and walked straight to the bedroom and went underneath the bed! He's small--only about 10 pounds. I tried to coax him out, but he stayed there for almost an hour. When he came out, he jumped on my lap and cuddled. After a few minutes, he walked to the door and looked out, but he was afraid to go outside. I went outside and he eagerly followed me, staying real close. He was finally satisfied everything was ok.<br /><br />Then yesterday, someone set off fireworks around 9:30 p.m. Desi was asleep on the bed. I talked to him soothingly and petted him. When I walked out of the room, he jumped down and went under the bed. Even after I went to bed, he waited another half hour more before he jumped on the bed to cuddle and sleep.<br /><br />The animal shelters are always full this time of year because of dogs who bolt and keep running. My neighbor's dog Sasha is terrified of fireworks too. She's a rottweiler, but she'll jump in the tub. When she comes out, she's trembling.<br /><br />I remember when my dad was in the hospital and I was taking care of his dog Princess. She was terrified of fireworks and he always had to bring her in before the fireworks started because she would jump at the windows and tear the screens. In my dad's neighborhood, the kids start setting fireworks during the day. I went over and brought her in the house. Once she was inside, she was fine. I stayed with her most of the day, but I had to return home in the evening to be with my dog Toby. I left her in the house. I came again early the next morning (the 5th) and she was happy to see me. I let her out and checked the house thoroughly, but there was no sign of mess or damage. Whew! I stayed with her a few hours, then went to see my dad in the hospital.<br /><br />I had made arrangements to have my dad's step-daughter Isabel check on Princess and to feed her dinner. Around 5 I got a call that the gate was found wide open and Princess was gone! We searched everywhere to no avail. We put up signs and kept driving up and down the blocks for days. We even searched the local pound. We were beginning to think the worst. We wondered what to tell my dad. When my dad would ask how Princess was or how she did on the 4th, we lied and said she did fine. I felt terrible. Finally, after a week, someone called. The man said he had a female dog that matched Princess' description!<br /><br />Isabel picked her up and brought her home. She was in good condition. It turns out she went for miles down a main street and hid in the back of a business (so they would lock her up at night and fed and cared for her during the day). Princess was extremely lucky. I was so grateful. I gave the guy a gift card to a restaurant in appreciation.<br /><br />I worry how Desi will be tonight. People told me to tranquilize him, but I don't like the idea of drugging him. I'll see how he does this year. If need be, I'll tranquilize him next year.<br /><br />Some surrounding cities ban fireworks. I wish mine would. I'll stay home the entire weekend to be with Desi and my cat Kelley (who doesn't appreciate fireworks either, but she stays put). How do you keep your dog calm?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-4808916732360411042008-06-29T13:17:00.000-07:002008-06-29T15:16:22.255-07:00Ways to Market Your ServicesI always find it difficult to find new clients. I'm not an assertive person, so it's always challenging for me to market my services. But the opportunity presented itself at a writer's conference I attended on May 28 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.<br /><br />I was really looking forward to hearing Jacquelyn Mitchard (author of <em>The Deep End of the Ocean</em>) give the keynote address. She did not disappoint. She was down to earth, comical, gave good writing advice, and spoke of her challenges in writing.<br /><br />The three breakout sessions I attended were extremely helpful to me. The first one, on personal essays given by <a href="http://victoriazackheim.com">Victoria Zackheim</a>, was informative. She spoke about getting to the "heart" (emotion) of your essay and read a few examples from her new book, <em>The Other Woman</em>. Some of the questions raised were about how to prevent getting sued when listing someone's name (her advice was to change the name or let the person know what you're writing about so there are no surprises later) and how to find an editor (I turned around to see who asked that question so that I could talk to her later. I did manage to talk to her after the session. I gave her some leads and gave her my business card.). <br /><br />The second breakout session I attended was called Fictional Seeds. It was given by <a href="http://lisalenardcook.com">Lisa Lenard-Cook</a>. She defined fictional seeds as fleeting thoughts and impressions. She suggested writing your thoughts or ideas in a journal, on a piece of paper and place it in a bowl later, or in a computer file. She suggested that when you start writing, keep saying (or thinking), "and then...." She discourages outlining for fiction and stated that contests are a good idea. She announced that she has a new book called <em>The Mind of Your Story</em> that discusses some of her suggestions. Of course I bought it!<br /><br />The third session was "Ask the Literary Agents." Four agents answered questions from the audience. Following are some Do's and Don'ts that they discussed.<br /><br /><strong>Do</strong><br /><br />* Be passionate about your work when making a pitch.<br />* Send query letters to agents you have thoroughly researched.<br />* Go to an agent's Web site for guidelines.<br />* Make sure you're a good fit with your agent.<br />* Love your material. Ask yourself, "Would I pay $25 for my book?"<br />* Keep queries short (what is your book about and why is it important or relevant to you as a writer).<br />* Ask your agent questions. There is no licensing board for agents. Do your homework. Shop around.<br /><br /><strong>Don't</strong><br /><br />* Get bogged down in detail for your pitch.<br />* Be nervous when making a pitch.<br />* Be too specific in your query letter.<br />* Call it literary.<br />* Mention that everyone in your family read it and loved it.<br />* Send a query letter as an attachment.<br /><br />The agents said to pitch a memoir, write a book proposal, do a competitive analysis on memoirs that are similar yet different from yours, and send an outline and a sample chapter. Memoirs need to be different. Ask yourself, "Is my story <em>that</em> compelling?"<br /><br />They stated you can have more than one agent for different genres, but you should focus on one you're good at. An agent also stated that when agents take on a new client, they usually do a five-year plan.<br /><br />I came away with so much information, and many of the sessions confirmed what I already know: keep writing, give it your best, and put your heart into it.<br /><br />I was able to make several contacts from talking to people throughout the conference. I handed out my business cards, gave advice on editing, gave people leads if I wasn't able to help them, promised to review a book proposal (free of charge), talked about editing to those who didn't understand the editorial process or know why a book has to be edited (yes, there are some who believe that!), and gave a recommendation to send their work out for <a href="http://critiquecircle.com">critique</a>. It felt good. I felt empowered and confident that I <em></em>can<em></em> market my services! And all with little effort or anxiety on my part.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-60975546168413081932008-06-15T12:39:00.000-07:002008-06-15T13:28:52.816-07:00Toby: Gone One Year TodayMost people think that their pet is the most unique of anyone else's. I'm no different. My dog Toby was special and unique, and now he's gone. He died one year ago today at 14 years of age. I had to have him euthanized. I haven't been able to write much about him because it was so painful. It's a little easier now.<br /><br />I had a vet who makes house calls come to my house when I discovered that Toby had great difficulty holding up his hind legs when using the bathroom. I could tell it was so humiliating for him when I had to clean him. I knew when he could no longer function on his own that it was time to have him put to sleep.<br /><br />My wish was for him to die on his own, but every time I felt he was failing and would die soon, he would rally, start eating, and get stronger. That's how things went for few months. I noticed he was eating less and less and then finally hardly eating anything at all. It amazed me how he could survive on so little. But he was losing weight rapidly. He kept up his daily routine--barking at people passing, dogs being walked, and howling when he heard the sirens from police cars or fire engines.<br /><br />He also played with his squeaky toys everyday. I was amazed that he would keep to the beat on the music on the radio or he would create his own music. I would say that he was playing his "concertos." He would entertain me everyday, right up to the day of his death. He had one special toy that I called Mr. Beethoven.<br /><br />You see, Toby was suppose to die years earlier. He had a major stroke when he was 8. I was trying to put on his harness for our weekly trek and he jumped on the bed as I instructed him to. He was so excited and was squirming. As I was trying to snap it into place, he slumped off the bed to the floor. He started convulsing. Then he just laid there and didn't move. He couldn't get up. My neighbor had to carry him to the car for me.<br /><br />The vet said that if he didn't regain the use of his legs or was not able to use the bathroom, I should probably consider euthanizing him. I couldn't accept that. I took him home (I found the strength to carry him). I laid out lots of comforters on the living room floor and I slept with him the first night, hugging him all night. He would lick me. My kitten Kelley laid with us too. (They had a special bond, but that's a story for another time.) As the days passed, I could feel that Toby would fight to get better. I carried him to the back yard and we all laid down to enjoy the chirping birds and the sunshine. He crawled away from the blanket so he could pee. Late at night, he would crawl to the kitchen to urinate instead of peeing on the blankets or on the carpet. Days later I could tell he was stronger. He was determined to go the front yard, which had two steps. It took him a long time, but he crawled to the top of the steps and slid down. So smart!<br /><br />The vet was surprised at his progress. He recommended physical therapy at another facility, but I declined, not only because of the cost, but because I knew that Toby could not tolerate long car rides. (He had many fears and riding in a car was one of them. He had been dumped from a car and abandoned when he was 4 months old. Some neighborhood kids brought him to me because they knew I had put my dog Gema to sleep when her cancer had returned. It was evident that Toby had been an abused puppy.)<br /><br />I devised Toby's therapy to strengthen his legs. He became stronger and his walking improved. The vet commended me. He said, "Whatever you're doing, keep doing it." Toby's gait was never the same and our long walks were now out, but most people could never tell he had had a stroke. He was my hero!<br /><br />He took such good care of me for 14 years. We went through so much together. He was in tune to my emotions and always knew when I needed to be comforted, especially when my sister Becky died. He was my constant companion. A big hole was left in my heart when Toby died. I miss his companionship and his beautiful concertos.<br /><br />Even though I got another dog (Desi) a few weeks after Toby died, nothing replaces him. I still miss him, even after a year. There is no timetable to grief. I will always honor his memory. He left me with so many stories to tell!Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-57433236580412318862008-06-07T14:51:00.000-07:002008-06-15T12:38:27.938-07:00Felt Validated at Pain ConferenceOn May 30, I attended the first-ever Women in Pain Conference held at the City of Hope in Duarte, California. This was the first time a conference was held on the subject of pain where both clinicians and women experiencing chronic pain were participating in the same conference.<br /><br />What kind of chronic pain do I have? It's a long list. I've never written about all my conditions before because i didn't want people to know. That has changed. I have congenital hip dysplasia (dislocation) in my left hip; rotator cuff problems in my right shoulder; recovering from a dislocated left shoulder; ligament damage in my right hand; trochanteric bursitis and ilotibial band syndrome in my right hip; osteoarthritis in my hand, shoulders, back, and hip; and degenerative disk disease along with a bulging disk. Most of these conditions are from an injury I sustained in February 2006. I never dreamed I'd still be dealing with these conditions and with the horrible pain.<br /><br />I'm actually proud of the way I've handled my pain. I try to lead a somewhat normal life despite the fact that I'm always in pain. The only give-away is that I limp. However, most people do not know when I'm in pain because I cover it up pretty well. I don't want any one's pity.<br /><br />I've never been one to label myself as disabled, but I suppose I am. I have a handicap placard for use when I park. I only use it when I have to park far or when there's lots of hills or steps that I need to avoid. I don't mind walking when it's flat. For the most part I leave the handicap space for someone else. Besides I don't particularly like the stares I get when I get out of my car when I park in a handicap space. I know they're trying to figure out what's wrong with me. I guess they have it figured out once they see me limp.<br /><br />Many times I've been made to feel that the pain is in my head because I didn't "look" like I'm in pain. The doctors have yet to prescribe a pain medication for me that won't knock me out or make me feel with I'm "under the influence." I keep telling them that I have to work and don't want to feel impaired when I'm driving. Therefore, I don't take anything hard during the week. But I find myself looking forward to the weekends so I can take Vicodin, which will let me sleep at least and will relieve the pain. It doesn't matter when I wake up. I'm in no rush. All I take during the week is Tylenol, which does not help me.<br /><br />This is the first time I've been around women who "feel" the pain I do and struggle with a lot of the same issues I do. I learned about organizations where I can go to for support (such as the <a href="http://theacpa.org">American Chronic Pain Association</a> and the <a href="http://painfoundation.org">American Pain Foundation</a>). I learned a lot about the pharmacology and traditional approaches to pain management. The organizer of the conference, Cynthia Toussaint, is a true inspiration. Her organization, <a href="http://forgrace.org">For Grace</a>, will help many women.<br /><br />I feel validated because most the women were made to feel it was all in their heads, just like I was. I also learned that women <em>feel</em> pain differently than men and that clinicians listen to men and treat their pain more effectively than they do women. We're told that it's stress and we're often prescribed antidepressants rather than an effective pain medication. We often leave the doctor's office without a plan.<br /><br />I've yet to absorb everything I heard at the conference. They gave so many handouts, books, plus all the information in the binder we received. Most of these women suffer (I don't like using this word, but I can't think of a better way to describe it) much more than I do. I admire their strength and they yearning to learn. I came away with new contacts, many resources, and a new resolve to join the effort of advocacy for women in pain.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-83903157441169513132008-05-18T13:30:00.000-07:002008-05-18T13:58:53.887-07:00Raising Your RatesI just finished a huge proofreading job for a legal publisher. I returned the chapters in batches. My client praised my work, emphasizing my attention to detail and my thoroughness. Now why don't I have the nerve to ask for a raise or to inform them what my new rates are? I know I need to work on being more assertive and proactive in my freelance business.<br /><br />Here's how it should be done:<br /><br />About every year or so, you should evaluate your rates to see if they are keeping up with the industry standard.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.the-efa.org">Editorial Freelancers Association</a> has posted "<a href="http://www.the-efa.org/res/rates.html">Common Rates for Editorial Services</a>," which includes type of work (such as copyediting, proofreading, indexing, research, and writing, among others). A range of fees is included based on a certain pace of work. For example, you can charge $20-35 per hour for proofreading 3-10 manuscript pages per hour.<br /><br />Taking the proofreading example a little further, there are different types of proofreading--on hardcopy (proofreading page proofs against a manuscript) or electronically (using Adobe Professional). There are different levels of text (basic or technical). Your rate can vary from client to client. The assignment can range from proofreading a young adult novel to a physics textbook with equations. Your rates would be different for these two types of jobs.<br /><br />As you get new clients, you would give them your new rate. They don't have to know that it's a new rate. For your existing clients, at some point (beginning of new year perhaps) you would inform them of your new rate (like when you accept a new assignment). You can tell them what you've done for them on previous jobs that they've appreciated. You can always negotiate. Now I just need the guts to ask!<br /><br />As I was writing this draft, I got some good news! My biggest client (the legal publisher) just contacted me and stated they're giving me a raise! They said that I was "long overdue" and that it would be an "incentive" to take on additional assignments. Of course things don't usually happen this way. I was lucky with this client. How do you increase your rates?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-24657457013298740152008-02-03T14:40:00.000-08:002008-08-24T14:30:06.487-07:00A New Year, A New StartI can't believe almost 9 months have passed since I last posted an entry. And here it is already February. A lot has happened, and yet nothing has really changed. But I'm different.<br /><br />You see, since my younger sister died last January, I never thought I'd get over her loss. But I'm finding out that things are getting easier and that I can be happy once again. It's so different without her, but I make the best of it.<br /><br />My beloved dog Toby died in June. He was 14. It was so painful to have to put him to sleep. I wanted him to die on his own, but he didn't. We were so close and he was a wonderful companion. I knew I had to let him go because he was suffering so much.<br /><br />I was lost without Toby. Now I had two voids in my life. I decided to fill that hole. I got another dog. I adopted Desi in July. He's quite the character. He's turned my life upside down and I wouldn't have it any other way. He's brought laughter back into my life.<br /><br />I've made personal, financial, and business goals for 2008. I'm doing ok so far. I'm on track. How about you?<br /><br />I'll try to post on a more regular basis. I'll do a personal post, such as this one, and one business-related. Let's see how I do.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-40359143894144314302007-05-20T15:07:00.001-07:002008-05-18T15:17:12.058-07:00NetworkingDo you take time to network? I try to, even though I'm an introvert. Here are several ways to network without going too much out of your comfort zone:<br /><br /><br /><ul><li>E-mail your contacts or clients and let them know you're available for freelance assignments</li><br /><li>Talk to your friend or neighbors about what you do. Maybe they know of someone who needs your services.</li><br /><li>Join a professional organization related to your career or expertise</li><br /><li>Join a professional network group such as <a href="http://www.LinkedIn.com">www.LinkedIn.com</a>. You can expand your list of contacts by someone including you in their network.</li><br /><li>Write in your own blog and find people to read and add comments to your blog. Add your blog address to your signature line in all your e-mails.</li><br /><li>Exchange business cards whenever possible, especially at seminars, workshops, or conferences</li><br /><li>Go to <a href="http://www.google.com">www.google.com</a> and type your area of interest to find an organization or others with a similar interest</li><br /><li>Join an online discussion group. Try <a href="http://www.yahoogroups.com">http://www.yahoogroups.com</a>.</li><br /><li>Tell your contacts or clients to recommend your services to others.</li></ul><p>Now all I need to do is follow my own advice! Actually, I've done a few of these. What about you?</p><br /><p></p>Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-41204507285544528042007-05-13T13:44:00.000-07:002008-08-24T14:32:49.324-07:00FriendsWhat do your friends mean to you? Do you have different types of friends (like old school chums, coworkers, ex-coworkers, family friends)? Do you ever introduce your friends to one another? Would they get along, if all they have in common is you?<br /><br />There are friends who are good listeners and those who are great for a good time and aren't interested in hearing about your troubles.<br /><br />I have different sets of friends. Most are very supportive and are understanding while I'm grieving for my sister, but I can tell that others don't want to talk about how I'm coping with my sister's death.<br /><br />Friends are there for you when you want to forget about your troubles or want to hear about how their life is going. I often find that my troubles are small compared to the hardships of others--like suffering with terminal cancer.<br /><br />Of all the friends I have, no one can compare to the friendship I had with my younger sister. when we were growing up, I was always trying to get rid of her, but as we grew up, we became closer than ever. We told each other everything--good and bad news, gossip, current events, opinions, wishes, dreams, fears--and listened to each other when the other one had to vent.<br /><br />None of my friends even come close to the friendship I had with my sister. Will I ever find a friend like her? I doubt it.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-68242604907230817032007-04-29T14:52:00.000-07:002008-05-18T15:12:32.322-07:00GoalsDo you ever find yourself setting goals and then get frustrated because you realized you hadn't met any of them? Join the club.<br /><br />I write personal and business goals each year. Some I meet and some I don't. Those that I don't meet, I realize too late that they were much too broad to be achievable. I now know that goals should be broken down into small, achievable steps. For example, one of my business goals is to have my own Web site, but it's not that easy. So I break it down into smaller steps:<br /><br /><ol><li>Gather information.</li><li>Read the information and decide what's best for me.</li><li>Choose a URL.</li><li>Register my domain name.</li><li>Find a Web designer.</li><li>Meet with the designer (ask if I can do the updates and give the designer ideas on photos or graphics).</li><li>Write the copy.</li><li>Edit and proof the copy.</li><li>Test the site.</li></ol><p></p><p></p><p>What I don't do is assign due dates to these tasks. It then becomes overwhelming, I would fall behind, and I'll end up giving up. That's not what I want. I'm so busy with working full time, handling my freelance editorial business (working on jobs, finding new clients), writing short stories, plus all the other things that pile up on my desk.</p><p>I make weekly To Do lists (which include both personal and business tasks), monthly business To Dos, and it really get discouraging when I don't achieve some of the tasks. Maybe I shouldn't have too much on my lists?</p><p>How do you keep to your goals?</p>Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1176071023333085662007-04-08T15:00:00.000-07:002008-08-24T14:36:22.804-07:00GriefThe death of a loved one can hit suddenly. In my case, it was my younger sister. She died of cardiac arrest on January 18 at the age of 49. She leaves a husband and two daughters (14 and 17).<br /><br />There's no going back. There's no time to say good-bye. How do I go on without her? She was my best friend. Yet when were were growing up, I was always trying to get rid of her. But over the years as we grew up, we became very close and would tell each other everything.<br /><br />We were so different, didn't always think alike, and approached things differently (she was spontaneous and I'm a planner and analytical), but yet we were close. Perhaps it was because we came from a dysfunctional family. It made us even closer. We came to rely on each other for support and advice and respected each other's opinions, even if we didn't always agree. We vented whenever we wanted to talk though a problem, listened when we needed to, and gave advice when it was asked for.<br /><br />My life will be so different now. I feel so lost without her. I keep wanting to pick up the phone to talk to her. So, instead, I talk within myself to talk to her, but it's not the same. Where's the feedback? I can still hear her voice and I miss it. Who will I tell my tidbits to? Who will I talk to about my job, my doctor appointments, and all the things that are important to me? I know I can talk to my friends, but it's not the same as talking to my sister. No one can take her place.<br /><br />The pain of her loss is almost physical. I cry all the time. Every remembrance (good or bad) brings tears to my eyes. I replay some some conversations in my mind and wish they would have turned out differently.<br /><br />When I feel happy about something, I almost feel guilty. But I know that life does go on. When I feel sorry for myself, I think of her husband without a wife and her two daughters without a mom.<br /><br />My life will be forever changed. Perhaps I'll make some changes that are good for me. I have to find a way to go on without her. I never dreamed it would turn out this way. I gave the eulogy at her service and I still didn't do her justice. I keep remembering other things I could have said. But it touched people and they got to see what a courageous woman she was. I will always honor her in my life.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1160343974249307752006-10-08T14:31:00.000-07:002008-05-18T15:08:09.906-07:00Overwhelmed<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/2674/2510/1600/Sunset.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/2674/2510/200/Sunset.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Do you ever feel that you have too much on your plate and you know what needs to get done but so many things (obstacles) get in the way?<br /><br />That's where I am now. How do I snap out of it? I'm so busy with freelance work and I have impending deadlines but so many other things take my time. So I feel like I'm not getting anywhere with anything!<br /><br />What I've tried to do is remove some of the things that are creating obstacles for me. Other stressors. But it takes time to deal with those stressors. You just can't push them out of your mind, but sometimes you have to even if for a short while.<br /><br />When I think of all the things I've got on my plate now, I feel so overwhelmed. So what I'm trying to do is block things out and concentrate on what needs to be done at that moment. In any "spare" time, then I try to deal with stressors and hopefully make decisions and get them out of my life once and for all.<br /><br />How do others deal with feeling overwhelmed? I already talk with a counselor to try to sort things out and I write to do lists but that's overwhelming in itself to look at the growing list. Any advice?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1145213674331805992006-04-16T11:32:00.000-07:002008-05-18T15:06:41.866-07:00Appreciation<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/2674/2510/1600/Water%20lilies.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/2674/2510/200/Water%20lilies.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I was reading a book yesterday regarding stress and it stated that instead of dwelling on your stressors, you should take the time to appreciate the good in your life. Oftentimes people, including me, do not do this.<br /><br />Whereas I have my share of stressors, I do have much in my life that I do appreciate. I have my pets (2 dogs and a cat) who give me unconditional love. I could not function without them. They make me so happy, especially when I'm down. They make me laugh so much that soon I forget (or put it aside) what I was worried about. Just cuddling them makes me feel good.<br /><br />I appreciate that I have a house to live in with my pets. At least I have someplace to live; many people do not. At least I have a job, where many people do not. Even though I'm not happy at the job and am currently on medical leave (a workers' comp injury), I appreciate that I'm employed.<br /><br />I appreciate my friends immensely. I don't know what I would do without them to listen and support me. I also appreciate my two sisters; they seem to be the only immediate family I have. Even though we're all so different, we do love each other and work very hard on our fragile relationships.<br /><br />Even though I have several medical conditions and a little more because of the injuries I sustained in February, I know that I will eventually recover from these injuries. Many people have very serious medical conditions or are paralyzed; I do not. I need to take the time to appreciate the health that I do have. I think that if I eliminate many stressors, I will eventually feel better and perhaps recover quicker and be relieved from some of my ailments.<br /><br />I appreciate that I have my sight and can sit outide with my pets to read and enjoy the nice weather. I love flowers, plants, trees, grass, blue sky, puffy white clouds, and birds. I get to experience that each day. I do take the time to "smell the roses."<br /><br />I just need to take the time to appreciate more in my life rather than dwelling on all the negative things. I need to remind myself of this and practice it several times a day.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1145137478893851142006-04-15T14:35:00.000-07:002008-05-18T15:04:36.911-07:00ProcrastinationHow do you get past procrastination? I keep finding others things to do instead of what I'm supposed to be doing. I've read that procrastination is similar to perfectionism. You want to do the task perfectly so you keep delaying it and in turns nothing gets done.<br /><br />I want to write a short story and submit it to a contest. How hard can that be? Very difficult. I keep searching for ideas to write on and then don't want to dwell on some of those subjects that may be painful, so I end up doing something else. I can visualize the story unfolding in my head, but when it comes to writing, nothing happens. Is it writers block? I don't think so.<br /><br />I think a big part of it is that I don't want to fail. Since I'm an editor, I worry a lot about mechanics of the story instead of just writing it down. I know that's true and know what I should do, but I don't.<br /><br />I work on some ideas, but don't get past the idea stage. I need to expand and develop a story. Any story. It can be funny or dramatic. It's on the tip of my tongue but it just doesn't flow to actual words.<br /><br />So instead I do something else. How can I break that spell?Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1142898639409479752006-03-20T15:42:00.000-08:002008-05-18T15:01:41.555-07:00ForgivenessHow do you forgive? What if it's impossible for you to do so? How do you go on with your life?<br /><br />Forgiveness does not come easily for me. I know it's important to forgive so that you can on with your life, but it's something that I've had difficulty with. I know that I can say to myself that I forgive my mother, but yet I still hold that anger in me. I can't get rid of it. Most of the time I don't think of her at all but every once in a while she creeps in and settles down.<br /><br />I know that I shouldn't judge, but I find myself doing that with her. I think she's a horrible person with no idea of how much she's hurt me or my siblings (all for different reasons). She hides behind the catholic church and it's so hypocritical of her.<br /><br />She has no compassion and is incapable of showing love. It's really pathetic and any attempts from my sisters in trying to reach her have failed. She is a mystery. She will not talk about what trauma occurred to her when she was a child. She doesn't realize that that incident(s) made her what she is today. It's a secret that will die with her.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1142795470941427882006-03-19T11:05:00.000-08:002008-05-18T15:11:12.396-07:00What Does the Future Hold?I sure do wish I could predict the future. Things would be so much easier, not only for me for for everyone. It's so difficult to know what the right thing to do is because you're afraid of making a mistake.<br /><br />I have so many decisions to make and there's pros and cons to them. I need to weigh things and figure out what is best for me. The problem is that I'm afraid to make mistakes, because I'm the one who has to fix them or I feel the repercussions for many years. So sometimes I do nothing. I know that's not wise, but it's safer.<br /><br />How do I get the courage to start to take chances in my life? I have a lot at stake and feel like I'm wasting precious time if I make a mistake.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1142623490565412852006-03-17T11:18:00.000-08:002008-05-18T15:10:15.326-07:00FridayToday is another day. A gloomy one. I'm in a much better mood when it's sunny outside. Oh well, just two days of rain then it'll be nice. But I'm kind of sad today. Today is my cat's birthday, the one who died. I always remember what a great cat Checkers was and how brave he was.<br /><br />I need to get started writing a short story. My mind is full of ideas, but I have to stick to one.<br /><br />I need to take advantage of my time. I was injured in a fall in February and have been off work since Feb 14. I'm due to return on March 27th, but that's only if the dr releases my work restrictions.<br /><br />I'm trying to be as productive as I can. I've been researching lots of Web sites having to do with writing and editing to try to get as much information as I can, plus I started this blog, a new thing for me. It's kind of scary because it's almost an invasion of my privacy. Who knows who's out there!<br /><br />As an editor (both freelance and full time), I need to try to find some freelance work while I'm home. I've already done one job, despite being in a sling (left shoulder) and a cast (right arm). I'm so happy now that the cast has come off. I also need to finish a Spanish proofreading test and submit that, but right now I'm trying to experiment with this blog. This is fun!!! Later.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24231034.post-1142571419612440262006-03-16T20:55:00.000-08:002006-03-16T20:56:59.613-08:00What I Am Doing?Hi!<br /><br />This is the first time I'm doing this and I don't know what I'm getting myself into. I need to discipline myself to write everything and I think this is a good way to do it.<br /><br />Where do I start? I need to think about that some more. Maybe tomorrow I'll have more ideas.Maria Alonzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17955123431762762429noreply@blogger.com0