Monday, December 28, 2009

Photos for Marketing Materials


Now that this Christmas season is complete and our minds are planning for 2010, many of us are contemplating how we will represent our business brands well in the coming year. If you own or run a small business, or any size business for that matter, you no doubt have a need for high quality printed marketing materials and online graphics.

Since many of us are not professional photographers or artists, we need resources for finding great photographs and graphic clips! Let me give you our secret spots where we find really neat items at free or really inexpensive prices:

http://www.sxc.hu/
http://www.dreamstime.com/
Royalty Free Images

DreamsTime offers the best selection, with really high quality images. If we buy a stock photo, it's never more than about $3.75. Check them out using the button above. You can view all their photo options before purchasing. Some images are even free!

Here is an important tip: When you purchase a stock photo, you need to know how you will be using it first. If you will use it on a printed item, such as a brochure, postcard, flier, poster, etc., always purchase the 300 dpi version of it. If you will only be using it on the web, you can get away with the 72 dpi version if you'd like. You can get the 72 dpi versions starting at only $1.25 each!

Finding just the right photo or graphic for what you are trying to convey is vital. It can make all the difference in the message you are sending to potential customers.

We hope this is helpful! Blessings to you.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Friday, December 18, 2009

Are You a Leader?


Hello Friends,

2010 holds exciting things for the Koinonia Business Women's organization. You may have heard about a few things already, but I want to let you in on one segment of our plans.

Starting in February, local chapters of Koinonia Business Women (officially called "KBWomen Chapters") will start in several cities around the country. Tammy and I have run an Olympia group meeting for the past 16 months! It's time to offer this same networking and learning opportunity to other women of faith in other areas.

Would you like to be a Chapter Leader and start a KBWomen Chapter in your city?
We are looking for spiritually mature women with business ownership experience to lead chapters. Chapters have a monthly meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of each month for 90 minutes. In these meetings, Christian business women can come together for:
  • Networking
  • Building Relationships
  • Getting Leads
  • Support
  • Encouragement
  • Business Skill Discussions
  • Idea Sharing
  • And to get more information about KBWomen
If this sounds interesting to you, and you believe other women in your area would enjoy attending with other like-minded women of faith, please consider becoming a Chapter Leader. Leaders will have special benefits, and free membership in our organization. Leaders also have a special application process to be sure that this is a "best fit" for everyone.

To get full details about leadership, benefits and chapter meetings, please visit this link.

We look forward to meeting you!

Posted by Krista Dunk

Monday, December 14, 2009

This "Letter from Jesus about Christmas" came to me in an email from a friend, but I have no idea who originally wrote it. Whoever it was, I believe they understand the heart of Jesus well, and have a very appropriate perspective to share with us. Let me pre-empt this with one thought. Continue to fight for what is right, but remember to focus on the heart of God which is love.

Letter from Jesus about Christmas --
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. What you call that day, is not top priority for me. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that, let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth, here is my wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.


3. Instead of writing the President complaining about economic or health care plan issues this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children or grandchildren a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make all the difference.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of Mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember:

I LOVE YOU,
JESUS

May we be unified and obey His command to love one another this season. Blessings to you all!
www.KBWomen.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Thankfulness Looks Good on You

During the Thanksgiving week, we compiled thankfulness quotes from some of our friends and connections. Here is what they had to say about what they are thankful for:

"I'm thankful for how carefully God leads me to be around great people." - Jevon Bolden, Developmental Editor at Strang Communications

"I am so very thankful for my business, Pride 'n' Polish, and my faithful housekeeping clientele (IRC's Trisha Ferguson and some others), in addition to the new Remax office job I just got with Kathy Cross whom I met at the Koinonia networking meeting! Two sisters in the Church body are sustaining me with pay for my time, treasures, and talents. I am so thankful for God's blessing!" - Deborah Lautt

"I'm thankful for a job! Whooo-Hoo! And for supernatural peace during a storm. God is with you and walks with you in your darkest times." - Latanya Davis

"I am thankful for a great church family." - Gina Whitehouse, "Author of Let Jesus Be Your Talkshow Host

"I am thankful for the support team that I have in place: My mentors, my encourager and my staff." - Kim Beasley, Owner of Your Passionate Business http://yourpassionatebusiness.com/

"I am thankful for the great staff I have, and for God's blessing on my family." -Trisha Ferguson, Owner of http://www.ircprintanddesign.com/

"For my loving and growing family, for the creative outlet I have and people I meet through Koinonia Business Women, for God's provision, for relationships, mentors and my church family, and for what 2010 holds." -Krista Dunk (me), http://www.kbwomen.com/

"Feeling thankful for opportunities, and for relationships that will take me strong into the New Year. Thank you to all my friends that support and encourage me to go bigger in life!" -Tammy Redmon, http://www.kbwomen.com/ & http://www.redmonandassociates.com/


Put on Thankfulness. Thankfulness looks good on everyone!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Bumper Bowling Business?

Have you ever thought about how your spiritual journey and your business planning are similar to bowling? Yes, it's true. Well, at least in my mind it is true :-). Let me show you why I believe that.
With bowling, there is a starting place, momentum, hazards, help along the way, and an end (goal) in sight. The ball is the action you take. The pins are the goal. The lane is the path/methods you use to get there. The gutters can derail your progress, OR you can set up the bumpers (unless pride won't allow you to use them).

Take a moment and visualize a bowling alley lane in your mind.

- The shiny wood planked floor, the gutters on each side and the white pins at the far end, standing in precise formation.
- You see where you need the ball to go.
- The small arrows along the path all point in the direction of the targets.
- Ah yes, and who can forget the bowling shoes smell.
- Hear the sound of the heavy ball hitting the wood.
- The dreaded sound of a gutter ball!! Nnnoooooooo......!

We can take a lesson from 5-year-olds. Put up the gutter bumpers and feel good about doing some bumper bowling. They don't care at all if their ball zig-zags all the way down the lane, as long as it reaches the pins.

Sometimes, it is more important that we're moving in the right direction, rather than waiting and doing nothing until we know our plan will run perfectly straight. Did you catch that? Feel OK with being on a path to purpose and bumping down all the way if you have to. When you hit the side, it will cause you to do some re-adjustment, but you are still moving forward.

What kind of "bumpers" can we have in our spiritual growth walk and business life? Here are just a few ideas of some guiding structure we can set up in our lives:

  • Consistent Prayer
  • Mentors
  • Accountability partners
  • Establishing disciplined habits
  • Setting up systems
  • Girding and motivating ourselves
  • Setting goals and planning
  • Being dedicated to growth and learning
  • Getting clarity of vision and purpose
  • Surrounding ourselves with positive, like-minded people
At Koinonia Business Women, we've done some bumper bowling ourselves in our organization's forward movement. For example, we plan to launch KBWomen chapters in various cities in early 2010. Plans for how to make chapters happen effectively have morphed several times! Our hearts are in the right place and we're thankful for those who can extend grace during the planning and re-adjusting process! More information on our 2010 plans is coming very shortly.

Here's to all of us and our bumper bowling business and spiritual progress...CHEERS! Or should we say...STRIKE!

Posted by Krista Dunk
www.KBWomen.com

Friday, November 27, 2009

Black Friday - Which Stores Are Christmas Friendly?

It's no secret...I love Christmas. I appreciate it when stores embrace "Merry Christmas."
According to the AFA (American Family Association), some corporations are excluding Christmas from their "holiday" advertising and promotions. They have ranked stores and companies according to their "Christmas Friendliness!" In case you're wondering how your local stores are positioning themselves, check out this handy information from AFA below.

Color Code:
For Christmas: Company uses the term "Christmas" on a regular basis, we consider that company Christmas-friendly.
Marginalizing: Company refers to Christmas infrequently, or in a single advertising medium, but not in others.
Against: Company may use "Christmas" sparingly in a single or unique product description, but as a company, does not recognize it.

Companies FOR "Christmas": (updated 11-10-09)
Amazon.com
Bass Pro Shops
Bath & Body Works
Bed Bath & Beyond
Belk
Big Lots
Collective Brands
Costco
Dollar Tree
Family Dollar
Dollar General
Hallmark
Hobby Lobby
Home Depot
JCPenney
Kmart
Lowe's
Macy's
Meijer
Menard's
Michael's Stores
Neiman Marcus
Petsmart
Rite Aid
Sears
Super D Drug Stores
Target
Toys R Us
Walgreens
Wal-Mart/Sam's Club


Companies marginalizing "Christmas":
Best Buy
Hy-Vee Stores
Kohl's
QVC
Safeway


Companies against "Christmas":
Advance Auto Parts
Aldi
Barnes & Noble
Books-A-Million
Braum's Ice Cream
CVS Pharmacy
Dick's Sporting Goods
Gap Stores
Harris Teeter Stores
H.E.B. Stores
Home Shopping Network
Kroger
Limited Brands
McDonald's
Nordstrom
Office Depot
Olive Garden
Outback Steakhouse
Publix
Raio Shack
Staples
SUPERVALU
Victoria's Secret

Interesting!

In my opinion, the phrase "Keep Christ in Christmas" is too weak. There is no Christmas without Christ! Happy shopping everyone, and Merry Christmas!

Posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Monday, November 23, 2009

From Frustrated to Thankful

I don't know about you, but sometimes I struggle with daily "stuff." Being a person with a strong sense of purpose inside, I have to be honest about not enjoying some of the mundane tasks that need to be taken care of in my life. Things like laundry, having a dirty floor after every meal (I have young kids!!), changing light bulbs (yes, even this is irritating), wading through coats, shoes and backpacks, organizing our paper mess, dusting, deciding on meal menus, etc., etc.

Can you relate? Maybe you have other areas of your life that frustrate or stop your flow. Whatever the case may be, there is a refreshing perspective that we can adopt in these situations. Let me explain...
  • When I'm sick of dirty dishes, I remember that some have no food today.
  • When little shoes track dirt inside, I can feel happy that we have property to play on.
  • When the alarm sounds too early, it's great to know I've woken up and have good things planned for the day.
  • When the laundry baskets are full, I feel thankful to have had a closet full of clothes to keep us warm.
  • When I'm stressed about guests coming over for a dinner party, I can be thankful for friends and family who love me enough to come over.
  • When the mail comes and it's nothing but bills, I am thankful we have enough money to pay them.
  • When it's raining outside (again), I remember how beautiful it makes Washington.
  • When I get spam emails, I am thankful for technology that helps me work and connect with friends.
  • When the kids behave badly, I am still thankful they are mine, knowing God feels the same way about me.

I could go on, and I'm sure you have many you could add too! It's really a small mindset shift, when we realize just how blessed we are. It's true that sometimes blessings feel like burdens, but throw the burdened feeling off. Let's ask the Lord to make our arms strong for our work, and our minds set on thankfulness.

May your hearts, families and homes be blessed and at peace. Happy Thanksgiving!

Posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Monday, November 16, 2009

Business Wisdom & Business Quotes from SHINE

Hello Everyone!
It's time to share some fun pictures with you and some great information that we learned at the Las Vegas SHINE event (put on by Ali Brown) earlier this month.


Krista signing to Marlee Matlin, Barbara Corcoran, Tammy with friend Jen Lovelady

Krista with Anne McKevitt, Tammy & Krista with new friends Brittany & Star, Ali Brown

Pearls of business wisdom:
"Bring value. Under promise and over deliver." -Ali Brown
"Develop key relationships with non-competitors." -Ali Brown
"My best successes came on the heels of failures." -Barbara Corcoran
"The power of publicity is more important than advertising." -Barbara Corcoran
"Marketing is creating a relationship with your target market with communication." -James Roche
"Marketing is more important than mastery." -James Roche
"Successful people understand that you don't need to make things complicated." -Anne McKevitt
"We all start not knowing what to do." -Anne McKevitt
"You need to have a sense of humor." -Marlee Matlin
Enjoy!
Brought to you by www.KBWomen.com

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Strength 2 Strength Conference Audio Pre-Order SALE!


Did you make it to KBWomen's Strength 2 Strength Conference on October 9th? It was a great day of community building, shopping, networking, eating, learning, and getting wisdom. We know that some of you wanted to make it, but were unable to. Three very special guest speakers joined us that day, including our keynote speaker Dondi Scumaci, CWAHM.com owner Jill Hart and Audrey Godwin, CPA. Each woman brought valuable information and insight on business skill topics, from a faith-based perspective.

Koinonia Business Women is making the conference speaker audio files available for purchase. They will be ready for either instant download or CD's by mail next Friday, Nov. 20th.


Save some cash by ordering between now and Friday, November 20th. On November 21st, prices will reflect their regular retail prices of $30 full set and $12 individual audios. Package deals are available! Pre-orders also include special BONUS audios, including Krista Dunk's session on "Removing Labels," and Tammy Redmon's audio teaching on "Don't Let the Holidays Steal Your Joy."
Jill Hart's Session: "Secrets of Social Media"
Audrey Godwin's Session: "Money Attitudes, Ideas & Plans"
Dondi Scumaci's Keynote Session: "You Are Designed for Success!"
If you are interested in reading more about the speakers, visit our conference speaker bios page. To get more information about ordering the speaker audio files, visit our KBWomen products page HERE.

SHINE Entrepreneur's Event Re-Cap



Remember last month when we posted about a business conference we were going to attend in Las Vegas, called SHINE? The event was last week. From our point of view, it was a huge success and very worthwhile to attend!

Why? Several reasons:
  • Networking with other entrepreneurial business women (and a few men) was great.
  • We made new friends, contacts and interacted in various ways with some great people.
  • Business skill building sessions helped us get clarity of vision to move forward with some projects and changes.
  • Fun and famous guest speakers were there, including Marlee Matlin, Barbara Corcoran (from the TV show "Shark Tank"), Julie Clark (creator of the Baby Einstein product line), and a woman named Anne McKevitt from the UK (now living in Australia). The wealth of wisdom and experience that these women shared was amazing.
  • The event itself was done with excellence, and everything ran smoothly.
  • We had dedicated time to work on our businesses!
  • We had fun!

Stay tuned for another post coming Monday with specific quotes and nuggets of wisdom from the event. Thank you Ali Brown for hosting this wonderful event!

Posted by Krista Dunk - www.KBWomen.com

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Grace Flows Down

Are you ready to worship? Please, if you have 4 spare minutes, listen to this amazing song, sung by Christy Nockels. It is called Grace Flows Down...your spirit will be moved.


Thank you Jesus

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Faith for Christians


Hello Readers,

I wanted to share a new revelation with you. It's something I discovered after meditating on John chapter 6 - regarding Jesus' statement, "I am the bread of life." My prayer is that you will contemplate this as well and gain new understanding of the Kingdom of God.

I've discovered that believing is the same process as eating. Sound strange? Here's more:

Step 1 of believing - something is presented (an idea, concept, statement from someone, etc.).
Step 1 of eating - something is presented (a menu, grocery shopping, a meal on a table, etc.).

Step 2 of believing - we take in and accept what has been presented in our heart, mind & spirit.
Step 2 of eating - we take the food in (consume).

Step 3 of believing - this new belief weaves itself into our being - it becomes a part of us.
Step 3 of eating - this food becomes a part of us physically, and either nourishes or harms us.

Step 4 of believing - beliefs should be tested and refined by the Word of God - the Bible. If anything is found to be false, it should be removed.
Step 4 of eating - any "waste" food that has been found to be unnecessary is refined out and eliminated

Believing, of course, is in the spiritual, emotional and mental realms. Eating is physical. However, I have noticed that many times God's principles work the same way spiritually, as things in the natural world do. When Jesus was saying "This is [I am] the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever," He was talking about taking Himself (Jesus) in - BELIEVING and trusting in His name. It is accepting within ourselves His wisdom and salvation and making it a part of us. The bread of life (Jesus) nourishes us.

When we take communion, we remember the words that Jesus spoke, "This is my body, broken for you...Do this in remembrance of Me." His body was broken for us, just like food is as it goes in. His broken body nourishes us, and His blood washes us clean. Without physical nourishment, our bodies get weak and die. Without the life nourishment Jesus gives, our spirits become dead.
Eating and believing are the same. What are you going to eat today? What is going into your soul and staying? Physically and spiritually, let's feed on healthy food.

Posted by Krista Dunk

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Greetings Women of God! We are re-posting this post. In just two weeks, we'll be at this business event. If you are interested in attending as well, there is still time to register. Here is our original post:

We want to share something that you may be interested in knowing about.

Coming up in early November, Tammy and I are attending a very interesting business conference in Las Vegas, full of entrepreneurs from around the world. Although this is not a Christian or faith-based event (and Las Vegas isn't our most favorite place), the business knowledge and strategies that will be shared here will be nothing short of AMAZING.

If you are a small business owner, solo-entrepreneur, internet marketer, coach, consultant, etc., please consider coming with us. It is an investment, but it is ALWAYS worthwhile to spend money, time and effort to gain the necessary knowledge you need to succeed and to "get wisdom", as the Bible implores. The knowledge here will be strictly business focused, but how many know that is imperative knowledge for us as Christian business women to have!! Mentors and people who have already "been there, done that" help us get from here to there in less time, avoiding more pitfalls, give us ideas, and provide encouragement and a clear path.

When you have a spare few minutes, click the graphic below, then watch the video that comes up on that page.

We encourage each of you to use savvy, sound business practices combined with the power and principles in God's Word. Keep in mind while watching, that this is a secular event, advertising in a money-focused way. While money is nice to have, it's not the main reason why we do what we do, and we bet many of you feel the same. However, we want to do what we do in the most effective way possible, influencing, reaching and helping as many people as we possibly can. We're sure you share that same desire.

Want to come? If you feel compelled to gain this kind of knowledge, gain some new business ideas and strategies and meet other successful business owners, join us at "shine!"

Blessings to you,
Krista & Tammy

Monday, October 19, 2009

Email Newsletters - Do You Send One?

Hello Christian Business Women,

We have a question for you. Do you have clients, customers or business contacts? If so, do you regularly keep in touch with them to let them know about specials, new services or to build relationships with them?

If not...(or maybe even if you answered 'yes') you might want to consider starting an e-newsletter, sometimes also called an ezine. At Koinonia Business Women, we have our ezine called *BLING* that we send out twice a month. People opt-in to receive it via email at our website, and our list management system does the rest.

This is the company we use to manage our ezine and would recommend to you:

There are so many reasons why having an e-newsletter is a great idea. Here are a couple of thoughts about them:
  1. Email is a non-invasive way to contact the people you want to reach.
  2. Newsletters accomplish several things, including building familiarity and trust.
  3. Once you have a template set up, changing content becomes quick and easy.
  4. Be respectful - Don't sign people up without their permission. That's called spamming!!

iContact even offers a free trial to test it out! That's how we started. Learn more here: http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/508058

Just another way for you to be business, marketing and tech savvy!

Brought to you by www.KBWomen.com

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Christian Business Women's eZine


Hello Business Women of God!

Did you know that Koinonia Business Women (KBWomen) has an ezine that comes out twice a month? Do you know what an ezine is?! Ezine stands for electronic or email magazine. In other words, it is an email newsletter. Our ezine is called *BLING*, because as we like to say, you can get a little sparkle in your inbox :-). Yes, a bit cheesy, I know! But also true!

If you are a Christian professional woman, ministry team leader, business owner, executive, or aspiring entrepreneur, *BLING* is for you. To see examples and our archive of BLING ezines, you can visit our ezine sign-up page here: www.KBWomen.com/e-zine.htm.

What are some of the things you can expect from *BLING*?
  • Inspirational messages
  • Articles on business and/or faith-related topics
  • A "Featured Member" profile
  • Information on KBWomen's events & upcoming 'happenings'
  • Ads from our community of Christian women in business
  • Links and resources you will find helpful
  • Tips and ideas

Please, if you haven't already, sign up to receive *BLING* and tell a friend about it. It's simple, quick and free! Get *BLING* ezine info. Let us know if you have any questions. Email Us.

You are blessed and highly favored, mighty woman of God!

Posted by Krista Dunk

Monday, October 12, 2009

KBWomen Conference Pictures!

Krista Dunk, Dondi Scumaci & Tammy Redmon!
Tammy's hot shoes from your-shoe-store.com!
Fun ladies visiting the KIROS table.
The BLING Shop by Purs-onality Purses (Olympia)
Speaker Audrey Godwin talking about our relationship to $$!
Dondi at the author's book signing table. Jill Hart had her new book there as well called "So You Want to be a Work-at-Home Mom".
Do you have conference photos you'd like to share? Please do! More great conference details coming shortly.
Thanks again to all our sponsors, which include:
Great Harvest Bread Co
Maggiano's
IRC Print & Design www.ircprintanddesign.com
Attune Foods www.attunefoods.com
Silpada
Top Food & Drug www.top-foods.com
Spirit 105.3 www.spirit1053.com

Hosted by www.KBWomen.com

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Intimate Conversations

Hello Readers,
We're doing another book review today. Revell Books sends us books to read from time-to-time, and they've all been excellent thus far. This one is no different! Today, we're discussing a book by Alicia Britt Chole, called "Intimate Conversations."

The tag line of this book is "Devotions to Nurture a Woman's Soul." I believe it accomplishes that well! Alicia uses many personal lessons learned and real stories to convey Spiritual revelation that God has given her. Because the information is so rich, the temptation with this book is to read it like a book rather than a devotional - just one section daily.

Here are a few examples of some powerful thoughts Alicia shares:
"Our culture injects us with strong doses of dissatisfaction.....Spend a few moments intentionally evaluating your life from the perspective of what you have been given, not what you have yet to get; from the perspective of what currently is good, not by what good you are still waiting for."

She tells a story of the cows next door straining to each the grass in her yard through the barbed wire fences (which is no different than their own grass), and says, "They wound themselves by pressing past boundaries their master has set for them."

When her son was diagnosed by doctors as "special needs," she shared these thoughts, "I too have 'special needs.' I need to be more like my special son...Each one of us has special needs, areas where we are painfully aware of our own weakness....those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable."

All-in-all, this book is a great read. What she brings to the reader is authenticity and heart. Take time to read this book and "chew" on its meat - If you can keep yourself reading each devotional topic, just one at a time! Nice work Alicia Britt Chole! Thank you...

Posted by Krista Dunk
www.KBWomen.com

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Conference Sponsors & Exhibitors!

Yes...October 9th is next week, which means KBWomen's Strength 2 Strength Conference is almost here! Conference Sponsors Include:

















Exhibitors Include:
Your Greater Purpose Coaching
The BLING Shop & Purs-onality Purses
KIROS
Silpada Jewelry
Gimme Grace Christian Cards
Andelcare

There will be more sponsors and exhibitors added to this list shortly!
Will you join us? www.KBWomen.com/conference.htm


We look forward to meeting you!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Starting a Business?


According to the Puget Sound Business Journal, more Americans are "living paycheck to paycheck. The number of Americans living paycheck to paycheck is on the rise, with 61 percent reporting they are just eking by."

The CareerBuilder survey they are quoting also noted that 33% of those surveyed, "report that they don't put any money aside into their savings each month, up from 25 percent in 2008, while 30 percent set aside $100 or less each month for savings, and 16 percent save less than $50, according to CareerBuilder.This survey polled 4,478 U.S. workers between May 22 and June 10."

What does that mean for Christian women in business? That means we have an opportunity.
Here's how I see it:
1. We have the opportunity to solve problems
2. People are hungry for hope and answers
3. Desperation can lead to decisions for positive change
4. Through faith, we can boldly enlarge our territory, and inspire others

Although we ourselves as Christians have times of trouble, strain, challenges, and failures, we are not forsaken. Our Provider knows what we need, and is causing all things to work together for our good. We can offer hope to others. We can learn and model Godly principles for finances, work ethic and discipline to others who may be struggling during this time. Let's get wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Let's put that to use in our lives, businesses and careers. Let's display or "shine" a light of hope during dark days.

LOVE is at the core of God. Is it at the core of us? Ultimately, it is love that people respond to.
  • Do we have love for others? Can we consider what others need from us? Are we willing to develop our gifts, skills and talents to impact the world around us?
  • Do we have love for ourselves? Enough love to take care of, and develop ourselves?
  • Do we love God, therefore obeying His ways? Releasing control to Him and trusting His will?
All good questions to ask ourselves! Let's reclaim some territory!

"I have never seen the righteous forsaken, or God's seed begging for bread" -Psalm 37:25

www.KBWomen.com

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Let's Talk Cash Flow - by Audrey Godwin


If you are a business owner, you know how valuable it is to receive sound financial wisdom, advice and ideas. Thankfully, we have Audrey in our midst to share valuable information with us. Thank you Audrey!


Cash and profit are not mutually exclusive, although many business owners think that if they have cash in the bank, they should be profitable. When you talk about money in your business, what are you really talking about? Cash flow? Profit? Sales? When you discuss finances, what comes up? Cash? Debt? Equity contributions? Or am I being too forward in stating that you are regularly looking at your financial statements? There are many businesses that are in the throes of putting together their tax returns for 2008, yet have very little idea about what is going on in 2009. We just figure that we’ll file our taxes and then eventually catch up to make half-way decent decisions about what to do by the end of the year. And by the way, the end of the year is rapidly approaching!

Let’s talk about cash flow – what is it? Cash inflow comes from sales, debt financing and capital infusions by the owner. Cash outflow is payments of vendor trade credit, operating expenses, sales and marketing costs, overhead, product costs, owner compensation, equipment purchases and debt payments. Yes, this is a bit of the obvious, but if you are not reviewing cash flow regularly, then you may run out of steam way before you get to the finish line. And let’s ask a bigger question, what do you have in place to monitor and measure your cash flow? We tend to tell ourselves that the bookkeeping is more than we can handle because it’s “just not our thing” or, “I don’t do numbers”. While there may be a little bit of truth to that, we really want to dig deeper to “peel back the onion” so-to-speak, in order to understand what we believe around money that is keeping us from managing it well.

Money beliefs are not developed just because you started your own company. Money beliefs are formed way before that. As a matter of fact, owning your own company will bring to the surface those issues much more quickly. If we find ourselves struggling to keep cash flow positive, timely and available, there is a different conversation we need to be having. I have worked with women who are great at keeping detailed books and records for others, but when it comes to their own finances, they fall flat and miss the mark. Now, there is no blame here, it is just a matter of perspective.

As women, it’s easier to do for others with excellence, yet not really believe that we are deserving of that excellence. I spoke with a client a couple of years ago about this very issue. She was always getting her taxes done at the very last minute (October time frame) and wanting to do better the following year. However, her verbal commitment did not reflect her actions. I asked her what she was really willing to commit to in order for her business to thrive and flourish. Our conversations led to the childhood memories of how her parents handled money at home and the challenges they faced as a family. Her father seemed to always work overtime, but the cash flow was only enough to pay those bills and break even. What was modeled for her was always living hand to mouth and working hard for someone else, let little at home to have more than enough to support the family. What we finally did was determine what it would cost for her to get a bookkeeper for her own company and look at her financial statements every month. Uncovering the root of the issue, allowed us to pull it out, remove the toxic soil and plant new seed in the form of God’s word about finances, money and accountability. Moving forward, she has filed her taxes in April, with a cash flow and profit plan created for the New Year in place to ease the cash unknowns from her business cycle.

Having stable cash flow is the foundation to a successful company. Planning to have cash at the end of the year, is not only to determine how much to spend on tax write offs, but also to determine how much needs to be set aside for operations in the following year. Plan to be cash rich and profitable – it allows you to be a blessing to others in your company and community.

By Guest Author Audrey Godwin, CPA, of www.TheGodwinGroup.net

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Flight of the Bumblebee Life?

We found a fun "flight of the bumblebee" song that we'll be using for one of our "Strength 2 Strength" conference videos.

It is a fun song, and gets me thinking about our 'pace' in life. As Christian business women, we are amazing. We are busy bees! Families, career/businesses, serving at church, planning, friends, problem solving, household chores, etc. However, just remember this - if you and I are too busy for God, then we are too busy. If we are too busy for renewing your minds and spirits, then we are too busy.


If you find yourself at a light-speed pace, an unsustainable frenzy or near burn-out, get your priorities straight. Do you know what your top 5 life priorities are? They may be slightly different for each of us, but might include God/spirituality, family time, education, career, business, creativity, serving, teaching, health & fitness, etc. If you're a busy bee on overload, you may want to consider trimming your schedule and commitments. Trim away things that are outside of your top 5 priority categories.


Just some food for thought, honey!! Blessings to you...



Posted by Krista Dunk

Dondi Scumaci on KBWomen Radio!

Did you catch the show last week? Dondi Scumaci joined us for a conference sneak preview discussion on KBWomen Radio. In fact, you can click the online radio 'player' on this blog page (top of right column) and listen in! Otherwise, visit our KBWomen Radio home page at www.blogtalkradio.com/KBWomen and get the archived show there. Dondi is our keynote speaker for "Strength 2 Strength - A Conference for Christian Business Women" on October 9th, in Bellevue, WA!

Next week, we interview one of our other lovely conference speakers - Audrey Godwin! Join us live at 9:30 am PST next Thursday, September 24th, via phone at (347) 202-0747 or online at the blog talk radio link shown above.

If you are a Christian woman who is a business owner, professional woman, aspiring entrepreneur, ministry team leader, etc., KBWomen radio is especially for you. Additionally, so is our upcoming conference event, and also our free *BLING* ezines. We encourage you to take advantage of these tools for getting wisdom, inspiration and connected with a community of like-minded women of faith.

Blessings!

Posted by Krista Dunk

Friday, September 11, 2009

Conferences for Christian Women?


Are you a Christian woman in the Pacific Northwest looking for conferences to attend? If you are a Christian woman who is also in the business world (or desire to be), we invite you to "Strength 2 Strength - A Conference for Christian Business Women" on October 9th, in Bellevue, WA.

This will be an amazing event, not to be missed! Our speaker line-up is fabulous. Not only will you have the opportunity to network, create community and share with other like-minded ladies, but you'll also enjoy shopping, food, SWAG bags (with pre-registration), building your business skills, encouragement, and inspired faith.

Will you join us? Please do, and bring a friend! Tickets are a steal at just $67. Find out more and register today at: www.KBWomen.com/conference.htm.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Feeling Glad? 4 Tips to help you increase your 'Glad Meter'


"Anxiety in the man's heart causes depression. But a good word makes it glad." -Proverbs 12:25

Are you in a place of gladness or a space of depression? Much has been written and spoken about vision in the secular world in more recent years. And interestingly enough, we don't hear about it a lot in the faith world. We hear a lot about being filled with joy and peace, letting go of wounds and hurts and focusing on all things good. There are words spoken and books written about getting understanding and finding peace to rid one of depression and anxiety. We even see things written and prayers prayed that fill us with good things and cast out the negative. But what makes us glad and how do we find it?

Webster's Dictionary defines glad as "feeling joy or pleasure; delighted; pleased: glad about the good news; glad that you are here" and yet there are no instructions on how to get "glad."

We are continually bombarded with ways 'not to be' or attitudes to be 'adjusted' and yet there still seems to be this illusive quality of glad that we strive for - only to continually fall short. My experience tells me from the years of coaching and encouraging others, that many people don't have a vision for what that place of 'glad' looks like, on the personal level. They haven't yet identified the steps and even desires to get to that place that is spoken of so frequently. Have you too been waiting for that good word in your life to get out of being depressed or anxiety ridden and into having a heart that is truly glad?

Good News! We have a good word for you today with 4 simple tips to help you identify and increase your "GLAD meter."

1.) Gauge the future not based on your past, base it on where God is leading you. When we know that we know, that we know the voice of God and how it moves in our life, we begin to set markers that support growth and joy.

2.) Lead from a heart motive. We are all called to lead, and when we lead with our heart toward what we know is God inspired in our life, we increase our efficacy for daily life and relationships.

3.) Action is always a necessity, we don't just happen upon things without some form of action. Defining what the steps look like to move toward what we are called for motivates us toward the results that are most satisfying.

4.) Define your life's vision - build a support network to help you see what you were created for and put it into a plan that defines your action, leads you toward satisfaction so that you can easily gauge your glad meter.

Would you like to take action, build a support network and increase your "glad meter?" Join us on October 9th at "Strength 2 Strength - A Conference for Christian Business Women" in Bellevue, WA. MORE INFO
Posted by Tammy Redmon

Friday, September 4, 2009

New Book Launch by our Friends Jill Hart & Diana Ennen!

TGIF Ladies!
As you may already know, we have an exciting conference for Christian business women coming up on October 9th. One of our fabulous speakers is our friend Jill Hart of http://www.cwahm.com/. She and one of her partners, Diana Ennen, have written a very informative and fun book that you should know about. Here is the book information:

Home-based businesses are estimated to be a $427 billion-a-year industry. In recent studies it was found that as many as 105 million people in North America alone were working at home. Considering this information, it is obvious that home-based businesses can be successful and authors Jill Hart and Diana Ennen will help you succeed with your own.

So You Want to Be a Work-at-Home Mom details all the basics of starting a business in a spiritual, motivational, and comprehensive manner. From deciding what type of business to start to keeping your family and faith first, this helpful tool details every aspect of establishing a business. With proven success tips utilized by the authors and others who own work-at-home businesses, this inspiration approach will provide you with the resources you need to start your own home-based business.

So You Want to Be a Work-at-Home Mom includes:
* Detailed information on types of businesses to start
* Ideas and assistance for setting up, operating, and marketing your business
* Definitions and descriptions of work-at-home terminology and processes
* Help for developing your Website
* Explanations of the business nuts and bolts, including bookkeeping, taxes, and more

About the Authors
JILL HART is the founder of Christian Work at Home Moms, CWAHM.com. Jill is a co-author of So You Want To Be a Work-at-Home Mom. Jill has published many articles and is a contributing author in Laundry Tales, The Business Mom Guide Book, I'll Be Home for Christmas, and Faith Deployed. She holds a bachelor's degree in human development and family studies. Learn more about working from home at http://www.cwahm.com/work-at-home/ .


DIANA ENNEN has been a leader and mentor in the work-at-home industry since starting her business, Virtual Word Publishing, in 1985. She is the author of many books, including Virtual Assistant the Series; Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA and Words from Home: Start, Run, and Profit from a Home-Based Word Processing Business. She resides in Margate, Florida, with her husband and their three children.

Below is an interview with the authors of So You Want To Be a Work-at-Home Mom – Jill & Diana.

If have questions they are happy to answer your questions anytime. Leave a comment below or email Jill@cwahm.com or Diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

How long have you been working at home?

Jill Hart - I've been working at home since 2000. I had to go back to work full-time for a brief period in 2003 when my husband got out of the Air Force. At that point I got even more serious about making my business work and I've been home full-time since then.

Diana Ennen – I’ve been working at home since 1985, when my son was born. He’s now graduated college and already working towards his own career. I absolutely love it. I can’t imagine doing anything else.

What types of businesses do you operate?

Jill Hart – I run Christian Work at Home Moms, CWAHM.com, a website full of free resources, job listings and information about home businesses. I also write articles and books (yes, more books to come!) and am a blogger for sites like Time/Warner's Christian Momlogic.com and a member of the Guideposts blogger team

Diana Ennen– I’m the President of Virtual Word Publishing. I’m a virtual assistant and specialize in marketing & publicity. I’ve also written numerous books on how to start a VA business and offer PR and VA Coaching.

Tell us about your book? How do you think it can benefit those who want to start a business?

Jill Hart - The book has been such a "God thing." He orchestrated the entire sequence of events - from putting Diana and I together as co-authors to bringing us to the right publisher. The book is a hands-on practical guide for anyone who wants to build a business from home. We cover topics ranging from how to select the right type of business for you, to how to get started, to how to market and grow your business.

Diana Ennen - I think one of the best features of our book is that it’s not only informative, but motivational as well. You’ll feel like friends are helping you on your journey to success. Also, we discuss numerous types of businesses to start and provide proven methods to achieve success. We also often hear how starting a business can be so overwhelming. That’s why we pay special attention to all the how tos. We feel very confident our book will help, not only those starting a business, but those already in business wanting to expand it.

What types of businesses are featured in your book?

Jill Hart - We have such a great range of contributors - everything from direct sales companies like Southern Living at Home and Avon to unique product-driven businesses like BSM Media and GrillCharms. These woman are amazing and give readers a great insight into how they've grown their businesses in very different ways.

Diana Ennen - We cover everything from direct sales companies to specialized areas such as medical transcription and virtual assisting. Also, Jill shares detailed information on starting a community based membership site. We think you’ll get a lot of helpful tips too from such work-at-home powerhouses as Maria Bailey and Lesley Spencer Pyle.

Do you have any tips for success for Christian entrepreneurs that you’d like to share?

Jill Hart - I think my favorite tip - shared with me by one of our contributors, Tammy Degenhart, almost ten years ago is that working together benefits everyone. She told me, "Jill, what you give to others God brings back tenfold" and I've seen that hold true time and time again. It may not be in financial gains and it may not look like what we expected but God is so faithful in that when we work together there is no competition - it's a win-win situation.

Diana Ennen - Do what you believe in and use your own skills and prior experience to find the business that’s just right for you. Research/Research/Research. The more you research, the better your business. Continue to market and be out there. So many once they find a few clients stop marketing. You need to get out there continually. You then become the go to person when someone needs services or products that you offer.

What are some of the challenges that you see with those starting or operating a business?

Jill Hart – In my experience, I've talked with many women who get frustrated because success doesn't come easily or quickly. Working from home may sound easy, but in reality it can actually be just as hard as working outside the home. There are many unique challenges, especially when working at home while raising children. If women don't prepare themselves, they can become discouraged and disheartened.

Diana Ennen– One of the major challenges I see is losing belief in yourself that you can do it. That’s why I think a faith-based book will be so beneficial. Even when times get tough, you can rely on your faith to forge ahead.

With the economy, do you believe it’s still a good time to start a business? Why?

Jill Hart – I think it's a better time than ever. The internet is so much more widely used than it was even nine years ago when I began my website. If people do their research and find a company that fits them as well as their budget this can be a great time to break into the work-at-home field.

Diana Ennen – Absolutely. In fact, I think there’s never been a better time. You might have to work a little harder, but it absolutely can be done. Plus, there are so many businesses who need us more than ever because of the economy. For example, with virtual assistants because businesses are downsizing they are seeking the help of a VA to help on an as needed basis.

Your book is written from a Christian perspective? Tell us a little about that and how you feel that makes it so unique?

Jill Hart – My faith is central to who I am and therefore central to my business. I began Christian Work at Home Moms because I wanted women to have a safe place where they could discuss not only business things, but also talk about an area that doesn't get talked about a lot in business circles - how our faith affects our businesses. The book is written in a way that doesn't hit anyone over the head with our faith, but it's true to who we are and talks about things from the vantage point that we see life - through the lens of our faith.

Diana Ennen – There are so many books out there today on starting a business. However, few have the Christian mom in mind. We provide a lot of scriptures and examples of how you can use your faith to help you. Our hope is that not only will your business thrive, but it might just give a little boost to your faith as well.


Learn more about the book at Beacon Hill Press or SoYouWantToBeAWAHM.com.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Do You SHINE?

Greetings Women of God!
We want to share something that you may be interested in knowing about.

Coming up this November, Tammy and I are attending a very interesting business conference in Las Vegas, full of entrepreneurs from around the world. Although this is not a Christian or spiritual event (and Las Vegas isn't our most favorite place), the business knowledge and strategies that will be shared here will be nothing short of AMAZING.

If you are a small business owner, solo-entrepreneur, internet marketer, coach, consultant, etc., please consider coming with us. It would be an investment, but it is ALWAYS worthwhile to spend money, time and effort to gain the necessary knowledge you need to succeed and to "get wisdom", as the Bible implores. The knowledge here will be strictly business focused, but how many know that is imperative knowledge for us as Christian business women to have!! Mentors and people who have already "been there, done that" help us get from here to there in less time, avoiding more pitfalls, give us ideas, and provide encouragement and a clear path.

When you have a spare few minutes, click the graphic below, then watch the video that comes up on that page (turn your volume down just a bit).

We encourage each of you to use savvy, sound business practices combined with the power and principles in God's Word. Keep in mind while watching, that this is a secular event, advertising in a money-focused way. While money is nice to have, it's not the main reason why we do what we do. However, we want to do what we do in the most effective way possible, influencing, reaching and helping as many people as we possibly can. We're sure you share that same desire.

Want to come? If you feel compelled to gain this kind of knowledge, gain some new business ideas and strategies and meet other successful business owners, join us at "shine!"

Blessings to you,
Krista & Tammy

Thursday, August 27, 2009

A Different Kind of Wild - Book Review

Time to Leave Tame Faith Behind
Get ready to experience the adventurous spiritual life God has for you.
Today we're reviewing a book that Revell Books sent to us called "A Different Kind of Wild" by author Debbie Alsdorf. At first glance, you may think that it's a book about going crazy! Not so, although we might be able to write that one right now with all the conference planning we've been doing!! Just kidding... OK, but seriously, this book has been a great read.

Alsdorf explains this call to becoming wild: “’Wild’ stands for ‘women in lifelong development.’” While this might sound intimidating and out-of-reach to some women, she points out that it is a process. “The key is understanding that it’s a lifelong development. There are no overnight spiritual success stories. We are on a journey with God: Each day the pages of life are turned, and line by line our story unfolds. It is a process.”

The first portion of the book speaks to a topic dear to my heart - becoming conformed to the image of Christ. One of my favorite lines in the mid-section of the book says this, "I never cease to be amazed that God selected me, imperfect me, to be on His team...When I live as one who has been selected, then I live differently..." That is a powerful thought. I was even delighted to see the word "koinonia" being referenced later in this book! How awesome!

This book is an excellent combination of real life stories, scriptures, encouragement, and wise counsel for becoming a "wild" woman of God. Two thumbs up from us! I'll leave you with this parting thought from the book's cover:

Is Your Faith Too Tame?

Posted by Krista Dunk - www.KBWomen.com

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Do you SHINE?

Greetings Women of God!
Today, we are winding down after the completion of our first "Living Your Vision(tm)" retreat yesterday...MORE to come on that wonderful adventure later this week! For now, we wanted to share something that you may be interested in knowing about.

Coming up this November, Tammy and I are attending a very interesting business conference in Las Vegas, full of entrepreneurs from around the world. Although this is not a Christian or spiritual event (and Las Vegas isn't our favorite place), the business knowledge and strategies that will be shared here will be nothing short of AMAZING. If you are a small business owner, solo-entrepreneur, internet marketer, coach, consultant, etc., please consider coming with us. It's not cheap, but it is ALWAYS worthwhile to spend money, time and effort to gain the necessary knowledge you need to succeed and to "get wisdom", as the Bible implores. The knowledge here will be strictly business focused, but how many know that is imperative for us as Christian business women!! Mentors and people who have already "been there, done that" help us get from here to there in less time, avoiding more pitfalls, give us ideas, and provide encouragement and a clear path.
When you have a spare few minutes, click the graphic below, then watch the video that comes up on that page.

We encourage each of you to use savvy, sound business practices combined with the power and principles in God's Word. Keep in mind while watching, that this is a secular event, advertising in a money-focused way. While money is nice to have, it's not the main reason why we do what we do. However, we want to do what we do in the most effective way possible, influencing, reaching and helping as many people as we possibly can. We're sure you share that same desire.

Want to come? If you feel compelled to gain this kind of knowledge, gain some new business ideas and strategies and meet other successful business owners, join us at "shine!"
Blessings to you,
Krista

Monday, August 17, 2009

Lessons from Summertime Kayaking

This weekend, my husband and I and Tammy and her husband had the opportunity to go kayaking on the Puget Sound. What a lovely time - it was so wonderful! Great weather, peaceful breeze, great company, good exercise, and just plain fun. At the end of the evening, we even recorded an impromptu video promoting the October 9th conference for Christian business women! Here we are:

As we got going with our kayaks, I quickly fell behind the others. It was the first time I had been in my own, one-person kayak. My thumbs were painfully hitting the fiberglass edges of the kayak and that was the obvious sign that my paddling left much to be desired. I studied the way I was paddling to see what I was doing wrong. My conclusion was this:

  • I was not fully extending my arms on each stroke.
  • My paddle was going too shallow into the water.
  • I thought I knew enough about what I was doing and didn't take the time to have anyone show me before we took off.

After I contemplated my rowing problem and what I need to do to correct it, a lesson hit me. How many times do people have these same "rowing", or progression problems in their lives and businesses?!

Not fully extending - giving a business, project, goal, or relationship a mediocre effort and short-cutting discipline or not being whole-hearted.

Going too shallow - Just skimming the surface of what potentially could be. Thinking small can slow down our progression.

Taking off without getting a proper lesson -You think you know, so you go, then it's slow...oh no! Tearing down pride and asking for help can be difficult, but then again, so can falling behind.

To me, this was a lesson about effort and mentoring. Without mentoring and wisdom, we expend a lot of effort and have minimal results to show for it. I was reinventing the wheel, and it wasn't working real well. With mentoring, we can start out right, use good technique and feel more confident that we're moving in the right direction. And, we can save ourselves from some pain!Posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com