Levelling Up My Affiliate Marketing

Two months have passed since I started this affiliate marketing business. It has been an interesting ride so far. Enough time has passed to do a cursory review, make some tweaks and set up an affiliate store.

Lessons I've learned so far:

• Review a variety of products: Pro bloggers recommend that you review a mix of expensive and inexpensive items. After all, Amazon's affiliate commission starts at 4%. That's not a lot if you are recommending a music book, but it sure adds up if you recommend a digital keyboard. However, more people will purchase the lower ticket items.

• Space out your product reviews: If all you are doing is writing product reviews, you and your readers will get tired quickly.

• I've read other pro-bloggers recommend that you promote popular products, such as those on the Amazon Best Sellers lists. That gets you more traffic to your website. However, it is important to help out the up and coming artists and companies too. They need the exposure, you need the traffic. Thus, you both win with a sale.

• Be honest. I don't know about you, but the "sleezy-used-car-salesman-who-does-anything-for-a-sale" tactic creeps me out. My mom can spot a lie a mile away. I trust that many of my readers are the same. Lying doesn't pay.

• Do your SEO Keyword research: I am so grateful to Suite101.com for training me on SEO optimization. It is important to incorporate words that people actually use in their searches. Some are even worth significantly more than others.

• Don't put all your eggs in one basket: Not everyone shops at Amazon. No one store carries all the products you wish to promote. Some offer different (*cough* higher) commission rates and rewards. Sign up to be an affiliate for more than one place.

• Social Networking is golden: Yes, they suck up a lot of your time, but those online social networks are great for promoting whatever information you wish to share with your family, friends and colleagues.

• Be patient: I am seeing a steady increase in traffic to all of my blogs. The sales are starting to trickle in. However, this is a long-term game. Reviews and posts will move up the search engine results as more people search for products or information. Ditto for when they share your posts.

• Diversify operations: Vary your reviews so they're not just a standard product review. For instance, I've posted a few comparison reviews, as well as "Popular Items" lists. However, this is not enough. That's where stores come in.

This weekend, I took my neophyte affiliate marketing savvy to the next level. I set up stores for each of my blogs. At least, that's what Amazon and J-List calls them. Once you have set up your affiliate account, some places let you set up a storefront. You select the products you wish to make available. At the moment, I have six niche blogs. The three music-related blogs can have the same store, but my other three cater to different audiences.

You are still shopping and paying those companies. The difference is that an affiliate, who has narrowed down the search for you, has become your virtual sales clerk.

The nice thing is that once these are set up, I just need to tweak them periodically based on how they are performing.

One last thing: Most companies with affiliate marketing programs prohibit affiliates from ordering products using their own affiliate links. Therefore, it would be good to have some "affiliate buddies". That is, Friend A will shop at Friend B's Amazon store and vice versa.

We'll see how this addition to my affiliate marketing strategy works. I'll report back to you in another couple of months or so.

Professional Development for Music Educators

Music educators who teach privately often work in isolation. Continuing education and professional development can re-energize one's teaching and musicianship.

Private music teachers wear a variety of hats in addition to teaching, such as: administrator, guidance counselor, mentor, coach, amateur-psychologist, marketing and salesperson, computer IT troubleshooter, webmaster, bookkeeper, ensemble musician and collaborative pianist.

The private music teacher faces the unique challenge of developing curricula tailored to each student. In addition, the studio music educator needs to learn how to switch gears and approaches quickly. The first student of the day may be a hyper five-year old, but the next student may be a serious 15 year-old, followed by a self-conscious 53 year-old. Each student requires a different approach, teaching and communication style to keep them engaged and progressing at a steady rate.

This rapid pace often leaves little time to practice scales, much less commit to professional development. However, by dedicating time for ongoing professional development, the private music teacher can learn about new techniques, tools and ideas and return to their studios re-energized by a fresh perspective.

Independent Professional Development Ideas for Music Teachers

Establishing personal learning goals for the term is one way music teachers can keep their own musicianship and technical skills in shape. For instance, piano teachers can decide to work through Bach's Inventions one by one or a set of character pieces by an unfamiliar composer. Voice teachers could work through a song cycle by an emerging composer.

All teachers could work their way through the repertoire for the conservatory system(s) they have adopted in their studio (e.g. Royal Conservatory/National Conservatory of Music of America, Conservatory Canada, Canadian National Conservatory of Music, London Conservatory of Music).

In larger city centers, there are community and professional musical clubs such as the Musicians' Support Group or Piano Diploma Association (both in Calgary, Alberta, Canada). These groups meet once a month for members to perform for each other.

Other performing ideas including joining a community ensemble, such as a choir or jazz combo, playing at church, as well as performing at events such as weddings, funerals, social and corporate functions.

Music educators can learn about new techniques and tools by reading professional publications. The American Music Teacher, Canadian Music Teacher, Clavier and Keyboard Companion are examples of print publications.

There are also online discussion forums for music teachers, such as Teachers.net, and the can-pno-ped Group on Yahoo Groups to discuss music pedagogy, studio administration and life/work balance.

Continuing Education Courses for Music Teachers

Studying with a teacher who is more experienced is another way to keep for music teachers to keep growing. Every teacher's training and "pedigree" is unique, making it possible to learn new approaches with each teacher.

Learning a new style from a teacher who is more experienced in a that particular genre can re-energize a music teacher's own playing. It is far easier for a classically-trained musician to teach bossa nova, improvisation and jazz after signing up for some coaching sessions.

Taking up a new instrument as an adult may sound daunting. However, one's overall musicianship stands to benefit from doing so. By learning new technique on the new instrument, music teachers may come to realize where they have been unconsciously storing tension developed from having poor posture or learn how to play more expressively on their primary instrument.

Music teachers can continue their education in their field. Graduate courses for teachers are available in Music Performance, Conducting, Composition and Pedagogy. Some universities, such as the University of Ottawa, offer online education for music teachers. The Royal Conservatory of Music is one of several conservatories worldwide that offers a Licentiate program.

Music teachers can benefit from taking continuing their music education in a related field, such as the Feldenkrais method, the Alexander Technique, general pedagogy or psychology courses. Even learning new software to use when teaching or to improve office processes would be beneficial.

There are numerous workshops, conferences and seminars on music performance, music pedagogy, composition, collaborative music and theory. The Music Pedagogy International Conference, the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy, the Music Teachers National Association and the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers' Associations host conferences on an annual or bi-ennial basis.

The Banff Centre for the Arts, the Eastman School of Music, the Calgary Arts Summer School Association and the Heifetz International Music Institute offer courses and workshops annually.

Music educators can also gain new ideas and build a support base by joining a professional network, such as the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers' Associations (CFMTA), Alberta Piano Teachers' Association (APTA) or the Alberta String Association (ASA).

There is a Japanese proverb that says, "To teach is to learn." Music teachers can re-energize their teaching and develop their own musicianship by dedicating time to professional development. Through independent study projects and reading, music teachers can maintain their own playing skills. Music teachers can keep their performance chops up and stay in tune with the performing challenges their students face by performing regularly.

Through courses and professional associations, music educators can learn about new techniques and tools to incorporate into their studio and build a support base. By getting involved with the musical community, the stresses and frustrations that come from working in isolation can be diminished.

Sources

Canadian Piano Pedagogy

Music Teachers' Helper. "Skill Upgrades for Music Teachers" (October 30, 2009)

Suite101.com. "Teacher Professional and Personal Development" (December 21, 2009)

Originally published on Suite101.com on January 20, 2010. Updated March 24, 2013.

Fresh Dog Food as a Convenient Alternative to Homemade Dog Food

Learn about some of the high quality dog food available on the market for pet owners who want to buy dog food with the benefits of a home-cooked meal.

According to Dr. Mukund Parthasarathy in the May 25, 2010

PetfoodIndustry.com

article “

What’s in store for pet retail

”, pet products that “provide health benefits to pets will be a driving force behind pet food sales.” Whether prompted by dog allergies, food intolerance, canine illness or an increasing concern for pet health, dog owners are exploring these products with gusto. A growing area in the market is fresh pet food.

Fresh dog food is a convenient alternative for busy pet owners who want to buy dog food that provides the benefits of a home-cooked meal in convenient ready-made packages. There are two types of fresh dog food on the market: frozen and refrigerated. Both kinds use fresh whole foods (organic, preservative-free), are lightly cooked and include dog supplements, such as dog vitamins and minerals. The following is an overview of three kinds of this type of holistic dog food.

Frozen Hamburger Meat Muffins for Dogs at Pleased Pets

Pleased Pets Meats in Black Diamond, Alberta prepares fresh dog food that is gently-cooked and frozen. At this time, Pleased Pets’ Meat Muffins are available at various locations throughout Alberta, including Airdrie, Black Diamond, Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer.

The company uses human-grade ingredients, including meats that are hormone-free and antibiotic-free, fresh vegetables and highly-digestible grains. They are free of additives, wheat, corn and soy. Dog food supplements are added to the Meat Muffins.

Meat Muffins are available in two sizes: regular muffins and mini muffins. Pleased Pets offers three types of Meat Muffins: Chicken, Beef and Elk. To prepare, simply cook in the microwave for approximately 40 seconds (individual microwave cooking times vary).

Refrigerated Dog Food in North America

Farm Fresh Pet Foods in Carstairs, Alberta offers both cooked dog food as well as raw dog food. The company currently distributes their products in Alberta, British Columbia and Manitoba. The company uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, including meat, berries, vegetables and grains. Their food is rich in vitamins and minerals. The company offers a Beef and Oatmeal pre-cooked dog food that comes in 1 pound portions in airtight tubes.

Freshpet in Secaucus, NJ, teamed up with Tyson Foods in 2009 to produce and distribute fresh refrigerated pet food throughout Canada and the US. Like the aforementioned dog food manufacturers, Freshpet offers freshly prepared meals for both dogs and cats that are gently cooked to allow for maximum nutrient absorption.

Freshpet offers three brands of fresh pet food:

• Freshpet Select: made with fresh meat, fresh vegetables and brown rice,

• Freshpet Vital: fresh meat, berries and grain-free and

• Deli Fresh: fresh meat, vegetables and rice with three serving formats.

The company offers a wide variety of prepared meals for pets, from Salmon and Ocean Whitefish to Chicken Vegetable & Rice. Pet owners can either buy pet food in the Slice & Serve format (1, 2, 6 lb. tubes), the bite-sized meatballs or the prepared meals in convenient containers.

For the Slice & Serve tubes, simply slice the recommended portion for the dog’s size, cut into bite-sized chunks and serve. For the other two formats, scoop out the recommended serving portion and serve. Note that some dogs may prefer to eat their meal at room temperature.

Unused portions should be refrigerated until ready to serve. Alternatively, pet owners can divide the fresh food into single servings and freeze for future use. Food should be completely thawed out before serving.

The fresh pet food market is still relatively new. New products will become available as the market continues to grow. Pet owners can learn more about fresh pet food products available in their area at their local pet specialty store. Alternatively, dog owners can click on the "Store Locator" or "Where to Buy" button on these suppliers' websites.

Variety is the Key to Optimal Dog Health When Feeding Homemade Dog Food

No single homemade dog food recipe will meet all of a dog’s nutritional requirements. In "Introduction to Homemade Diets for Dogs" in Whole Dog Journal (April 2007), Mary Straus advises dog owners to strive for nutritional balance over time.

The cut and type of meat, grains and vegetables should be varied to make certain that their dog's nutritional needs are met. Even when feeding a dog any of these ready-made dog food products, dog owners should endeavor to read the ingredients label carefully and serve a variety of ingredients for optimal pet health.

For some dog owners, the raw food diet and the home-prepared diet may be too time-intensive for their busy schedules. Fresh pet food, whether frozen or refrigerated, present a viable option for those who wish to give their dogs the benefits of home-prepared whole foods in a convenient ready-made package.

Related Reading:

Premium, Natural, Holistic, & Organic Pet Foods

What You Should Know Before You Cook for Your Dog

Homemade Hamburger Recipe for Dogs

Grain Free Hamburge for Dogs Recipe

Originally published on Suite101.com on October 31, 2010. Updated March 23, 2013.

Kaimonoshimasu!

I've set up a page with links to all the fun otaku stores that I've teamed up with (and frequent whenever possible). There's CD Japan, J-List, RightStuf and of course, the online powerhouse, Amazon. You can reach the page by clicking on "Otaku Shopping" on the main menu or clicking here. Mitte onegaishimasu! I've picked a good mix of books, study aids, figures, messenger bags, plushies, anime and more. Of course, once you're in, you can browse and shop from any department within the store.

It's a win-win situation: you get your otaku fix, while contributing to my Get Out of Debt and Play More Fund. Happy shopping!

An Introduction to Christian Retreat Centers in Alberta

Spiritual retreats provide an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation. Learn about 5 Albertan Christian retreat centers that welcome people of all faiths.

There are several Christian spiritual retreats in Alberta for those seeking spiritual renewal, counseling and growth. Although rooted in the Christian faith, these facilities are ecumenical

,

welcoming people of all walks of life. This is an introduction to 5 Christian retreat centers in the province: The FCJ Christian Life Centre, Martha Retreat Centre, Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre, The Providence Renewal Centre and Sanctum Retreat.

The FCJ Christian Life Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada

The Faithful Companions of Jesus at Sacred Heart Convent began their ministry in 1885 by running an all-girls’ boarding school. In 1980, after extensive renovations, the FCJ Christian Life Centre opened its retreat and conference centre. In addition to retreats and sabbaticals, the Centre offers ecumenical spiritual counseling, workshops, parish outreach and specialized programs for lay ministry.

The Centre has accommodation for 52 overnight guests with complimentary laundry facilities. There are also 3 conference rooms, 3 dining rooms, a library, seasonal labyrinth, chapel, grotto and a mediation garden.

Visitors can take advantage of the holistic services available, including massage, reflexology, healing touch and Reiki. Membership to the Centre is $10/year, which grants members access to the extensive library. Costs for workshops and retreats are listed on the FCJ Centre’s website.

Martha Retreat Centre in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada

The Martha Retreat Centre is operated by the Sisters of St. Martha. The Marthas offer four types of programs: A Time to Pray, A Time to Reflect, A Time to Be Companion on the Journey (spiritual coaching) and Retreats.

There are four opportunities for prayer at the Centre. There is daily prayer, weekly centering prayer, monthly Taize prayer and monthly Eucharistic Adoration.

The Centre offers Oasis Days, workshops on prayer, spirituality, health, wellness and healing. There are two programs dedicated to men’s spirituality.

Three types of retreats are offered at the Martha Retreat Centre: private retreats, weekend retreats tied to the liturgical year and longer retreats (both silent and preached retreats). A list of current prices is available on the Martha Retreat Centre ’s website.

Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada

The Mount was founded in 1949 and is run by the Order of the Franciscans. The facility lies on approximately 500 acres. Retreatants of all faiths can reflect outdoors, following the Stations of the Cross, sit and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains, pray in the chapel or curl up and read a book from the lending library or bookstore.

The Centre offers three types of spiritual retreats. There are weekend retreats, midweek twilight retreats and individual silent retreats. Each year, the Centre chooses a retreat theme which is reflected in all its programming. For instance, the theme for 2010/11 is “Life’s Spiritual Journey”. Some of weekend retreats are geared towards specific groups, such as women’s retreats, couples retreats, men’s retreats, and clergy retreats.

There are single rooms with a shared bathroom in the main building. In 2009, the former convent was renovated. Renamed “St. Elizabeth Place” after the Sisters who resided there for 50 years, this building contains six bedrooms, a large meeting room and kitchenette.

For those who want a desert or private retreat, guests can book the Friar Paul Surette Hermitage. This log cabin is sparsely furnished with a bed, table, chair and wood-burning stove.

There is no set fee for retreats. However, a list of the Centre’s costs per person is listed on Mount St. Francis’ website. Guests are given a blank envelope to include their contribution. Those who can contribute above the listed cost receive a tax receipt. Their donations help cover the costs for those who cannot afford the full amount.

The Providence Renewal Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

The Providence Renewal Centre was founded in 1985. Built on 20 acres of land, retreatants can walk and reflect on the Centres various walkways or meditate in the fountain garden or seasonal labyrinth. Guests can attend day sessions or book a room for longer stays.

The Centre’s programming focuses on Christ-centered spirituality for individuals, groups and organizations. The programs fall into 6 general categories: prayer, liturgical seasons, weekends away, special interest, clubs and health and wellness.

The Centre offers weekly yoga classes and holistic services such as Reiki, therapeutic massage and acupressure. Providence also offers private retreats, sabbaticals and counseling with a spiritual director. There are 21 private suites (with ensuite bathroom) and 30 single rooms (with a shared bathroom).

The Centre requires at least 3 days’ prior notice for private retreat bookings with meals included. Current prices for workshops and retreats are listed on Providence Renewal Centre’s website. Guests can pay by credit card, cheque or cash. Costs for those who are in financial need are subsidized through donations..

The Centre has conference facilities for conventions, team building and special functions. Their meeting rooms and auditorium can accommodate groups from 6 to 325 people

Sanctum Retreat Centre in Caroline, Alberta, Canada

Founded by Catholic lay theologians Mariette and Kristoph Dobrowlski, the Sanctum Retreat Centre opened its doors in 2004. Although rooted in Catholic Christianity, people of all faiths are welcome.

They offer three types of retreats: silent spiritual retreats, silent weekend retreats and midweek retreats. Like Mount St. Francis, there are specialized retreats for specific groups, including couples, clergy, men and women.

Sanctum lies on 100 acres of land. Retreatants can borrow items from the lending library, relax in the outdoor spa, pray in the chapel or go hiking or fishing. The Stations of the Cross wind up the hill, while a series of four loops forge an outdoor Rosary path.

The facility has 33 private bedrooms with an en suite bath and three hermitage cabins. There is a solarium dining room as well as a common kitchen area.

Sanctum also has conference facilities and can be booked for team building and leadership workshops, professional development and lay ministry and formation meetings.

Like Mount St. Francis, there is no set fee for retreats at the Sanctum Retreat Centre. Donations above the basic cost go towards covering the cost of a retreatant who is in financial need.

For people who are seeking spiritual renewal and growth, spiritual retreats provide an opportunity for them to reflect and pray, seek spiritual direction and fill up their spiritual “gas tanks”. These Christian retreat centers highlighted are just a sampling of what is available for people of all faiths. From retreats to workshops, from massage to spiritual coaching and from conference facilities to walking paths, there is something for everyone who seeks to rest and recharge their body, mind and soul.

Originally published November 18, 2010 on Suite101.com. Updated on March 23, 2013. All rights reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.