Using Pinterest for Small Business Marketing

Interesting Articles Written by Cindy Lynn and Published at Yahoo! Voices
Tags: Pinterest, small business marketing, Yahoo! Voices



Have you heard of Pinterest? It's the Internet site where people "pin" images and photos that they enjoy so others can see them. It's a fun, fairly new, social networking site ... but does it have potential for anything beyond that? You bet it does. Think outside the box and consider it for small business marketing.

There are two ways to join Pinterest. The hard way and the easy way. The hard way includes going to the site, requesting an invitation, and then waiting for the invite. Which may be quite slow in coming because there's often a waiting list.

The easy way? You'll be surprised when I tell you and will say, "Of course, that's the way to do it!" Simply request an invitation through a friend.

There are more tips beyond that, and my article at Yahoo! Voices, titled, "Using Pinterest for Small Business Marketing" outlines what to do from there ... but let me pique your interest by giving you a quick synopsis. You'll want to pin items using SEO keywords and embedded links, think related items, and cater towards Pinterest's demographics. For more in-depth details, head over and read my article ...

As for what's coming up next ... a soon-to-be-released gardening article titled, "The Zen of Fertilizing--Five Ways to Maintain Your Calm While Shoveling Manure." Check back next week for a synopsis and the link.

Or do it the easy way (ah yes, once again, "the easy way"), and get free updates by email or RSS feeds.

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Yahoo! Voices

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Valentine Suggestions ... by Cindy Lynn Beck

Posted by Cindy Lynn Beck

Tags: Valentine's Day, Valentine gifts, Valentine cards, Zazzle/bythebecks*

© ByTheBecks

Not to rush you along in life--I realize a piece or two of Christmas fudge might be lingering in the fridge and the tree may still be up--but Valentine's Day will be here soon. Time to start thinking about gifts and cards. Here are a few suggestions (my own creations and those of others):

GreetingCard-Valentine's Heart by ByTheBecks*

Postage Stamps: Valentine Heart by ByTheBecks*

Valentine Card for Valentine's Day by ByTheBecks*

Valentine Cow by ByTheBecks*

GreetingCard Love Pointed the Way by ByTheBecks

Gerbera Daisy Love Card by WheatgrassDesigns

Gerbera Daisy Love Stamp by WheatgrassDesigns

Love Fireworks - Be Mine. by tiffjamaica

Love Birds II by tiffjamaica

SouriZette&HeartBalloon LoveU Valentine's Day by CaArtstudio

Browse for other Valentine designs at Zazzle.

Myrtle Beach SC ... by Cindy Lynn

Posted by Cindy Lynn Beck

Tags: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, ocean, Yahoo! Voices

Photo © ByTheBecks

Just in case you're getting tired of winter (and who isn't?), take a peek at a short slideshow of Myrtle Beach, SC. You'll feel like you're there, walking on the beach, the warm sand between your toes and the sun on your face.

Aaaah, yes ... that's better. Tropical drink, anyone?

$20 Sunny Holiday Giveaway

Posted by Cindy Beck

Tags: Sunny Holiday, giveaway, Zazzle




Even though my friends and I are not rich philanthropists (well, not yet anyway), we're still lucky/blessed enough to have the opportunity to give things away occasionally. Right now, we're holding a fun, $20 gift certificate giveaway until Dec 28. The winner gets to spend $20 at any of the 6 shops listed below. It's easy to enter ... just go to A Sunny Holiday Giveaway and follow the instructions!

To give you a taste of the fun things you could purchase with your winnings, here's where you'll be shopping ...



Misty Dawn Photography
Misty Dawn Seidel is a nature photographer who's photography includes wildlife, domestic animals, macro photography, sunsets, abstract, landscapes and more. If it catches my eye, she photographs it. At her shop you can find a variety of gifts printed with her photos. You can see more of her photos here.

A Bit o' Sunshine
Ruthi Cox is an artist, photographer and poet...and she combines all three in the products she designs in her shops at CafePress and Zazzle. Her words dance with the art and pictures, encouraging readers to live life to the fullest.

(The winner can shop at either store, but will need to choose between her CafePress or Zazzle shop).

Send Out Cards
Send Out Cards is a company that makes it easy and inexpensive to send cards to loved ones. The $20 credit you can win covers the cost of setting up an account plus 15 regular cards (non photo type ) or 10 photos cards with postage, if you choose to spend it there. To see all the great variety of cards they have, just click the "Send Free Card" link. (Don't worry, you don't actually have to send a free card...but hey, it's free, so why not!)





By the Becks
This shop has a wide variety of fun gifts to make you smile. They also have touching breast cancer awareness gifts, and the family which runs this shop donates 5% of the proceeds from each of these to Susan G. Komen Foundation and other breast cancer charities.






Wheatgrass Designs
Wheatgrass Designs features the photography of Oz Girl. She grew up in Akron, Ohio, then moved to Rural Kansas, where many of the photos in her shop were taken. Her photos are eclectic, ranging from bright and vibrant flowers to western and rural countryside themes.




Scribbleprints
If you've been following this blog long you know Scribbleprints is where I share my artistic side (and my funny side too). The features my wild scribble art and humor, plus just a touch of water color painting and photography. I have shops both at CafePress and Zazzle.



COUPONS TO HELP YOU SHOP FOR THE HOLIDAY!
This giveaway doesn't end until after Christmas, but you can shop right now at these shops and save with the following coupons:

• AT Scribbleprints, Wheatgrass Designs, By the Becks, A Bit o' Sunshine, and Misty Dawn Photography use coupon code CARD4HOLIDAY for 50% off Cards! (Zazzle Shops Only).

• Get a Free Card at Send Out Cards! Click the link for more info!

There are multiple ways to enter, so head over to A Sunny Holiday Giveaway now, and get your entries in!

(Disclosure: This giveaway is sponsored by the six store owners listed above and not by any company that carries their products, nor endorsed by any company that carries their products.)

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Zazzle Me!

By Cindy Lynn Beck

Tags: unique gifts, Christmas gifts, online gifts


Background image © Flaivoloka

The holidays are swooping in like a vulture over a dead cow ... er ... sorry, my writer's imagination got the better of me. Let me rephrase ... like a shooting star in the night sky! (Ah yes, a much better analogy.) And you don't want to give the same ol' greeting cards and gifts this year, do you?

No more holiday cards from _____Mart (fill in the blank). No more bland ties for the men on your list, or hankies for the women. (Does anybody buy hankies anymore?) Instead check out these unique gifts from my own Zazzle store, as well as ones that I like from other store owners.

Your friends will love this card!
Christmas Greeting Card-Outhouse by ByTheBecks

Who can resist postage to match the card?
Postage Stamp-Christmas Outhouse by ByTheBecks

The perfect gift for that little miss! Click here to see it from different angles.
Snowman Shoes by ByTheBecks

Great for Dad, Granddad or brothers!
Old Pickup Truck Sweatshirt by ByTheBecks

Great gift for LDS friends, family ... or yourself!
Manti LDS Temple iPhone 4 Case by ByTheBecks

Great gift for LDS friends, family ... or yourself!
Salt Lake LDS Temple iPhone 4 Case by ByTheBecks

Wonderful keepsake for a cancer survivor.
Pink Ribbon Teddy Bear Christmas Ornament by ByTheBecks

Nice gift for those who know life is not for sissies.
Native American Scaling a Peak by ByTheBecks

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Didn't see the perfect gift yet? Click here to view the rest of my Zazzle creations.

For products from a world full of creators ... or to create your own unique
gift items, click on the image below!

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5 Rules to Remember

Posted by Cindy Lynn

Tags: humor, happiness, Associated Content



5 Rules to Remember in Life

1. Money cannot buy happiness but it’s more comfortable to cry in a Mercedes than on a bicycle.

2. Forgive your enemy but remember the so-and-so's name.

3. Help someone when they are in trouble and they will remember you when they're in trouble again.

4. Many people are alive only because it’s illegal to shoot them.

5. Alcohol does not solve any problems, but then, neither does milk.

~ Author unknown


And now that you've had a laugh ... if you're looking for other fun or interesting thoughts, check out my articles at Associated Content.

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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Tongue-in-cheek Poem About the Brain ... by Cindy Lynn

Interesting Articles by Cindy Lynn ... and published at Associated Content
Tags: poems, poetry, Associated Content


Photo © sxc.hu/profile/ba1969

Neurons, synapses,
and matters most grayish.

Memories of dinners
And mignon, filet-ish....

This snippet of a tongue-in-cheek poem about the brain should whet your appetite and catch your attention. Well, that's the plan, anyway.

And now that I've caught your interest, (the "mignon filet-ish" would certainly catch my attention) click here to read the rest of this short poem. I guarantee it's worth your while. Just be sure to catch the double entendre in the last two lines of it!

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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Children's Short Story: Funny Mystery Story for Kids About a Missing Jar of Peanut Butter

Interesting Articles by Cindy Lynn ... and published at Associated Content
Tags: children's short story, peanut butter, humor, Associated Content


Photo © sxc.hu/lazysunday


Aaah, peanut butter. I can not help it; I love the stuff! Therefore, it's only just and fair ... or at least logical ... that out of my love of peanut butter, a story was born. Yup, here's the whole mouthful of a title, "Children's Short Story: Funny Mystery Story for Kids About a Missing Jar of Peanut Butter."

Or, if you want the shortened, highly imaginative subtitle, "The Case of the Disappearing Peanut Butter."

Barry Anderson discovers that the peanut butter jar is missing. He suspects his twin brother, Scooter, is swiping the lovely, creamy, delectable, yummy ... oh, sorry, I got carried away at the thought of peanut butter, and peanut butter cookies, and peanut butter toast ... and oops, still carried away.

So, Barry suspects his twin brother is the thief. But would Scooter really do such a thing? To find out, head over and read the "Children's Short Story: Funny Mystery Story for Kids About a Missing Jar of Peanut Butter."

And hey ... it doesn't really matter if you're no longer a kid and you read it. Or even if (gasp!) you don't like peanut butter.

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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Follow by Google or by Email

Interesting Articles by Cindy Lynn ... and published at Associated Content
Tags: friends, Associated Content


Photo © sxc.hu/lusi

I just put on the "Google Friend Connect" button here at the site, so now you have two cool ways to follow ... by Google or by email. Which is your favorite?

Even though you didn't ask, I'll tell you mine. (That's one of the perks of being the blog owner, right?) I prefer to follow by email, because I find that it catches my attention when an email comes in. I bat my eyes and say, "Ooo, so-and-so must love me. They sent me an email telling me they have a new blog post up!"

Well, okay, maybe I don't really bat my eyes. But, I do prefer email notification.

So, there you have it ... all the thoughts from my brain for the moment.

Oh! If you're looking for a fun, tongue-in-cheek article to read, try, "5 Reasons to Arrive Late for Your Own Funeral: Elizabeth Taylor Did It, so Why Can't You?"

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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Bible Verses for Foodies at Associated Content ... by Cindy Lynn

Interesting Articles by Cindy Lynn ... published at Associated Content
Tags: Bible verses, foodie, foodies, Associated Content


Photo © sxc.hu/lockstockb


I've posted a new article for foodies out at Associated Content: Bible Verses for Foodies.

Those who like to eat (yes, we foodies know who we are!) will find it fun to know that there are Bible verses about food. For example: Luke 15:22-23. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the father rejoiced at the return of his son, whom he had previously considered lost. "But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry ...."

There you have it. Confirmation that there's nothing wrong with enjoying food ... just the kind of reassurance any foodie would love! Take a minute to head out to Associated Content and read Bible Verses for Foodies. Oh, and don't forget to look at the picture. Ooo, such a luscious hamburger!

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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Tornado Hits Churchill Downs ... by Cindy Lynn

Thoughts by Associated Content Contributor, Cindy Lynn
Tags: Triple Crown, Churchill Downs, Kentucky
Derby, Associated Content




While sitting in a restaurant and eating a burger, I noticed a news bar announcement on the bottom of the TV screen ... a tornado had hit Churchill Downs. The television showed photos of some of the destruction, and although it didn't look like everything had been damaged, it was still somewhat shocking. After all, the Kentucky Derby took place there just last month and for horse racing fans, Churchill Downs is the first step in the Triple Crown ... a victory that no horse was able to claim this year.

And then the show went back to something more important, like a commercial, or some political commentator who wished to opine. Well, ok, I'm being a little sarcastic here, but you'd think Churchill Downs experiencing a tornado might constitute a little more exposure than a news bar.

Just in case anyone's wondering ... yes, they did cancel the horse races until Friday.

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

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The Belmont Stakes ... by Cindy Lynn

For those of us who love watching the thoroughbreds race, there's another great event coming up ... the Belmont Stakes. It's impossible for there to be a Triple Crown winner this year, but there are still plenty of reasons to watch the Belmont Stakes. Animal Kingdom, the winner of the 2011 Kentucky Derby is definitely running (barring illness or accident) and since the Belmont is a longer track than the Preakness—a race Animal Kingdom recently lost—it'll be very exciting come post time at the Belmont Stakes.

And speaking of post time, for those who are wondering, "What channel is the 2011 Belmont Stakes on and what time is post time?" click here for an article giving info that includes the date, channel and time!

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Philosopher at Associated Content

Emma Watson's Whereabouts: Emma Watson Spotted in Pittsburgh

Do you have a favorite character in Harry Potter? I suppose anyone who has watched two or more of the movies likes the storyline well enough to have a favorite. Mine is Hermione (played by Emma Watson). Yes, sometimes Hermione is a bit of a know-it-all, but she's smart, cute, definitely superior at casting spells, and Emma Watson plays her to a "T."

If you happen to be an Emma Watson fan and haven't heard the latest news, Watson will be starring in The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Watson was seen in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where production has started for the movie. She's sporting a short haircut reminiscent of the 60s, and there are some dynamite candid photos from on-set. (Tidbit: Flowing, mauve skirt.) For more info, including a link to those pictures, click here.


Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Occasional Philosopher at Associated Content

For the Garden: Ideas for Making Plant Markers ... By Cindy Lynn

Please, Peas ... Where Did I Plant You in This Garden?

It's that time of year again ... and none too soon! Spring has arrived and it's time to start thinking about the garden. One problem all gardeners have is marking the garden rows. Some people shove whatever's handy into the ground to mark the plants, but why do that when there are alternatives for fun, cute plant markers?

For a few unique ideas, go to For the Garden: Ideas for Making Plant Markers. One suggestion involves using broken dishes. It's a great way to recycle!

In case you missed last year's article giving tips for growing tomato plants that give an abundant harvest, check out, Growing Tomatoes: Are You Getting a Great Harvest from Your Tomato Plants? There's a tip there on "tickling" tomatoes. Nope, not to make them laugh, but to pollinate them!

Do you have any secrets for marking plant rows or growing killer tomatoes? If so, take a sec and drop off a comment here or at the articles' sites. I'd love to hear from you.

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Occasional Philosopher at Associated Content

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Dancing With the Stars ... by Cindy Lynn

Does the Show Need New Professional Dancers?

In: Lifestyle, TV
Tags: Dancing with the Stars, DWTS, dancing, dancers



Dancing with the Stars is in its 12th season. Have you picked a winning favorite? I stopped picking long ago because it seemed like my favorites usually made it to the last round or two and then always lost. It's the fan factor that can't ever be counted on in Dancing With the Stars!

All right ... I take it back. I really have picked a favorite; I'm just not counting on them winning. My choice of dancers is Petra Nemcova and Dmitry Chaplin.

But, I digress. This year I've noticed that some of the professional dancers who've been with the show for 8-11 years (that's close to a decade!) are looking a little peaked. Maybe a little bored, too. Who wouldn't after a decade of dancing with amateurs?

At any rate, I published an article out at the Yahoo! Contributor Network about which professional dancers should be replaced. I'll give you a clue about three of them, though, because I had a brilliant idea for new positions on the show for Cheryl Burke, Tony Dovolani, and Louis van Amstel. Well, okay, maybe not brilliant ... but close!

So, I'll pose the question to you ... on Dancing with the Stars ... does the show need new professional dancers?


Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Occasional Philosopher at Associated Content

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Quotes, Quotes and More Quotes

"Busy as a Bee"
By Cindy Lynn
In: Lifestyle, Quotations
Tags: Quotations, quotes, bees


I love quotes—witty quotes, romantic quotes, quotes about love, life, and even loss. Therefore, in honor of spring (which in the Rocky Mountain region flits in and out like a busy bee), here's a quote to bring a smile.

“A bee is never as busy as it seems. It’s just that it can’t buzz any slower.”—Frank Hubbard

Until next time ...

~ Cindy Lynn
Author, Poet, and Occasional Philosopher at Associated Content

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A Funny Story from Real Life about a Typo

"Ooo, Far Out"
By Cindy Lynn
In: Creative Writing, Humor
Tags: True story, typo, funny story about a typo



Have you ever made an embarrassing typo? Everyone makes them occasionally, but usually a typo is quickly forgotten. This true story about a typo on the acronym, "LDS" will cause a chuckle or two, and bring to mind a typo ... or other blunder ... you've made in life.

Click here to read what happened.

How-to Rental: 5 Questions NOT to Ask when Checking Out a Rental Property

By Cindy Lynn
In: Business and Finance
Tags: Renting, renters, rental application, how to rental



Do you know what questions NOT to ask about an apartment/home rental property? Are some questions liable to incur a denial of your rental request? This list of 5 questions NOT to ask when checking out a rental property may help you obtain that rental....

Click here to find out more in this article from Cindy Lynn at Associated Content.

5 Job Interview Mistakes to Avoid when Applying for a Position

By Cindy Lynn
Tags: job interview, interview tips, how to interview, hiring



Being a small business owner/landlord has given me an extensive opportunity to talk with other managers, to interview people about their qualifications, and to learn of the mistakes made in job interviews. It's safe to say that most job seekers usually know enough about the interviewing process to learn information about the company, show up on time for the job interview, and come prepared with a résumé, but there are a few other tricks of the trade....

Click here to read more.

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Spring Poems: A Haiku Poem About a Lily and a Butterfly

By Cindy Lynn
Tags: poetry, poems, haiku, haiku poems

Oh my gosh, I can't believe how long it's been since I posted here. Time flies like an arrow ... and fruit flies like a banana!

So, as penance for not posting more frequently, here's a short haiku poem about lilies and a butterfly for you to enjoy. (A haiku is Japanese poetry of three lines with 5 syllables in the first and third line, and 7 syllables in the second line.)




In the Desert Sun

Sego lilies white
Nodding in the desert sun
A butterfly whispers by


(Author's note: For another fun haiku, read "Summer Poetry: A Haiku About Fireflies.")

And now, if you're looking for poems, love stories, current articles, recipes, or how-to articles, take a gander at my Associated Content page to see my latest writings.

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