Where [I'm Writing] + What [I'm Using]

I’ve got some good news for you: February is almost over.

(Is it just me that’s thrilled by that thought?)

This month’s been a rough one in some ways, mostly because of the weather and my inclination to stay inside if the temperature doesn’t at least equal my age. But that means it’s been a good time to hunker down and get to know some new clients, new websites, and new tools to help me get it all done.

Where [I’m Writing]

The new year started off with a bang for me, with four new clients showing up in the first 30 days. My background as a makeup artist is coming in handy these days, as is my experience with weddings and jewelry!

I absolutely love the challenge of taking on new clients, getting to know the needs of their business and flex a few new writing muscles. To me, that’s one of the best things about being self-employed — the variation in the work that I do. No getting bored here!

If you’re looking to land a few new clients this year, you might be want to look at:

5 Places to Find New Freelance Clients

4 Ways to Impress Your Clients (And Help Your Business)

And of course, don’t miss out on your copy of Hot, Warm & Cold: Three Email Templates That Will Help You Land Clients.

I’ve recently begun writing for Love Live Health on natural beauty and health, topics that I’ve recently become incredibly interested in and passionate about. And I’ve had several new posts appear on one of my favorite sites, Go Girl Finance. On the copywriting and blogging front, I’ve started working with Esqido, a glamorous lash company, to get their blog rolling and tackle a few other promotional products.

If you’re putting together your business blog, you might want to look at:

What Should I Write in My Business Blog?

15 Blog Post Ideas for Any Niche

11 Ways to Make Your Blog Posts More Awesome

Or, if you’ve got a full to-do list and need a little help to get things started, get in touch! I’d be happy to help with whatever you need, from setting things up to creating an editorial calendar to writing posts.

Not sure how you feel about outsourcing your business blog? Take a look at:

How to Outsource Blog Posts Without Losing Your Voice

What [I’m Using]

You might have noticed the images around here are looking a little different. I’m following my own advice and being more consistent about my visual branding. Luckily, I didn’t have to invest in any crazy image editing software to do so. In fact, I just use Google Drawings — it’s incredibly easy to figure out and makes putting together simple blog graphics a snap!

If you’re wondering where to get images for your blog that don’t cost a fortune, check out:

Spice Up Your Blog Posts With Free Images From These 4 Sites

At the end of last year, I traded in for a brand new Surface Pro 3, which is currently my only computer (though I would love to get a desktop soon). While I am generally more of a Mac person and have never found a PC that I love, I really enjoy the Pro 3. It’s large enough that when I snap in the type cover it feels like a laptop, but small enough that I can prop it up on my lap and use it like a tablet.

I have had to avoid the temptation to download a million new productivity apps, though. Right now I keep it simple with Gmail Calendar (which syncs to my Google calendar online and on my phone), OneNote (also syncs to my phone), and ToDo Notes (the perfect to-do list app is basically my holy grail. Sadly, this one is not it, but it works for now).

Next week, check back for a list of website mistakes that you’re probably making (because nearly everyone does).

In the meantime, I’m curious: where are you working & what are you using? I’d love to know!

(And if you’ve found the perfect to-do list app, send it my way!)