Freedom Reins by E.M. Spencer
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6 Ways To Create A Relaxing Home Office Space

2/23/2014

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I’m sure we’ve all heard people say, “A cluttered desk is the sign of a busy person”.  To this, I say “Nonsense!”  A cluttered desk is the sign of an unorganized person.  The only time you’ll see my desk scattered with papers is when I’m in the middle of a job and, even then, it’s more like a temporary, organized clutter with a purpose.

When I decided to convert the TV room into a home office, I didn’t want it to have the same business feel as my desk at the accounting office.  That one is organized with the essentials for an administrative assistant (computer, calculator, trays for various files, stapler and basic tools used constantly within easy reach, a phone, notepad, and big cup of coffee.  Plus there’s always room for a family photo).

I wanted my home office to maintain a warm feeling so incorporated ideas that worked with the space.  Other than the splash of bright flowers I like to add now and then, my space is very neutral in colours.  This is because I work under florescent lights in a bright office most of the day so coming home a toned down space is calming for my mind and spirit.

Here are some ideas to help you organize your space:


Keep only the essentials on your desk top. 
In my case, I have a laptop, desk lamp, note pad and pen for jotting side thoughts.  You may want to keep a prop or photo on your desk that relates to your writing topic.  I usually like to have a vase of flowers or potted plant just because it brightens my space and makes me happy.

Keep reference material and supplies offsite but close at hand.
Do you really need a whole mug full of pens on the desk?  How many do you use at once?  Is it necessary to have your dictionary, thesaurus and reference books all piled up on the corner? 
A shelf or cabinet within easy reach allows you to access all of the necessary items without them cluttering up your workspace.

A quality chair is a must.
You can spend hours sitting at the desk so make sure you have a chair that is comfortable on the legs and back.

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Use baskets
Baskets are a great way to add décor while storing your paper, mail, or supplies.  

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Create a Comfy Corner
Create a comfortable space where you can curl up with your manuscript or research material.   After working at the office all day, I don’t really want to come home and sit at another desk so instead, I’ll take a cup of tea or glass of wine and curl up in the big armchair.  A cozy fire makes this my favourite place on a cold evening.  

Lighting
Good lighting is important when reading, writing or performing any task that can strain the eyes.  Make sure your space has good lighting for working, with the option of toning it down for a more relaxing atmosphere.

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Views from one of my favourite writing getaway locations.  I love Vancouver Island :)
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6 Comments

Is Technology Robbing You?

2/16/2014

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Sometimes we get so busy it’s hard to find time for our personal interests, so how will we ever get time to write a book or work on our other art or hobby?
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Then again, how much of our time is used up with distractions that we can control?  As much as I appreciate and use instant technology, it is one of the biggest culprits for diverting our focus and robbing us of productivity.

How can we eliminate distractions and regain focus?

  • Turn off the computer (If you are researching on the internet, do not open the social media pages)

  • Turn off your phone.  If it’s important, the caller will leave a message.

  • Check messages, emails or social media sites only twice a day.

  • Treat yourself to a day totally without modern technology.  You’ll be amazed at how productive you can be.  Or maybe you’ll just rest.
1 Comment

EXPLORE CANADA - The Carlton Trail

2/9/2014

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While travelling through Saskatchewan, my sister snapped a few photos that show what parts of the Carlton Trail looks like today.  Long gone are the days when it was the overland route of fur traders and explorers.  Even further are the years when it was used by aboriginal hunters to track wild game.  However, we can still see evidence of years gone by.
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The Carlton Trail started at Fort Garry (now Winnipeg) the administrative center for the surrounding Red River colony and the launching point for the gold seeking adventurers in the story Freedom Reins.  It travelled across the prairies and on to Fort Edmonton.  A common mode of transportation was the red river cart.

Fort Garry is also the site of what is known as the Red River Rebellion led by an outspoken leader of the Metis people, Louis Riel.   Although this event took place in the years following this novel, it is an important piece of Canadian history.

Get out and EXPLORE CANADA !



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The Business of Writing

2/2/2014

0 Comments

 
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It’s “Tax Season” again, as it is referred to in the accounting world.  That time of year when people gather all their information and prepare the annual income tax return.

I’m not an accountant so would advise you to contact one for more detailed information pertaining to your personal situation and also recommend exploring the Canada Revenue Agency website.

However, as a bookkeeper, I do help small businesses prepare for this process and would like to share with you some of the business related expenses you may be able to claim to offset your income as a self-employed author.

·        Office supplies (paper, pens, printer cartridges, …)
·        Office equipment (computer, printer, fax, copier….)
·        Office furniture
·        Courier, postage, freight
·        Service charges for (printing, photocopying, binding…)
·        Research materials (books, magazines…)
·        Subscriptions
·        Membership dues for writing organizations
·        Payment for an assistant
·        Advertising and promotion costs
·        Business phone
·        Internet
·        Equipment repair
·        Bank charges (if you have a separate business account)
·        Writing courses
·        Writing related conventions (limit two per year)
·        Travel expenses (transportation, accommodations, meals)
·        Vehicle (fuel, repairs & maintenance, loan interest, insurance). 
           - Keep track of the kilometres used for writing-related purposes.

·        Home office (a percentage of your home could be used to claim                      deductions on your utilities, property tax, mortgage interest and more)
                                       or
·        Separate business office outside of the home (almost all of the              rent, utilities, and other expenses can be claimed)

*** Remember to keep all your receipts. If you are ever audited, it will make the process smoother.

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