tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83122968459054194882024-03-13T12:24:21.989+00:00Work ShacksWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-71346212915631718322010-10-07T13:58:00.000+01:002010-11-02T12:03:08.094+00:00SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 7TH OCTOBER MEETINGAt today's meeting, Debbie Austin of Utility Warehouse gave a presentation entitled "Less is More!"<div><br /></div><div>Debbie gave a short presentation on what she does, how she can help people save money with their household bills. She also showed how the Utility Warehouse can help you save money when shopping at major retailers (also helping cut spending), thereby making it easier to budget. In fact, the Utility Warehouse can benefit anyone who is interested!</div><div><br /></div><div>Debbie can be contacted through www.cleversavings.info </div>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-34962529275126269242010-09-02T14:24:00.004+01:002010-09-02T14:33:52.707+01:00SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 2ND SEPTEMBER MEETING<p align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0cm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:17px;"><b><u>TODAY'S MEETING</u></b></span></span></p><p align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0cm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:17px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span style="font-family:Comic Sans MS, cursive;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Today's talk was given by our friend, Steve Bowkett, Hypnotherapist. He spoke about, and demonstrated '</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:medium;">Self-Hypnosis and the Creative Mind'.</span></p><p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As Steve explained prior to his presentation:</span></span></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:medium;">"The subconscious is an incredible resource of memory, experience and creative energy that complements the logical, reasoning part of the mind. Especially in today's society most people try to rely solely on conscious thinking abilities to solve problems and make decisions. But harnessing the subconscious complements and empowers the conscious mind so making it far more effective.</span></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:medium;">This workshop will demonstrate how the mental state of self-hypnosis can help you achieve this. Steve will run a group relaxation session for those who want it, and then work with Kate Jackson on an individual basis so you can see the techniques in more detail."</span></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"> <span style="font-family:Comic Sans MS, cursive;"><span style="font-size:100%;">As always, Steve was happy to answer questions after his presentation (of which there were plenty!) I think we all learned a lot about hypnosis and self-hypnosis and some of us found it quite upsetting to have to remove ourselves from such a tranquil state!</span></span></p><p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:medium;">Steve aims to carry out another workshop for HAHA members at his home practice very soon. I can't wait!</span></p><p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS', cursive;font-size:medium;">Steve can be contacted at <a href="mailto:steve@sbowkett.freeserve.co.uk">steve@sbowkett.freeserve.co.uk</a></span></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p> <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none"><br /></p>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-50481586417494583292010-08-05T13:04:00.003+01:002010-08-05T13:12:36.132+01:00HAHA MEETING 5TH AUGUST 2010This morning was the August meeting of HAHA. We were, alas, very thin on the ground since so many of our (luckier) members are sunning themselves on beaches around the globe!<div><br /></div><div>The meeting was attended by Kate Jackson (Provision TLC), Steve Bowkett (hypnotherapist), Wendy Bowkett (Unique craft shop) and Phil Shepherd (Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce) and, of course, myself. I'm very grateful to those who came along, especially Kate and Wendy as Kate didn't have her usual (other) networking event afterwards (so made a special journey into town), and Wendy is recovering from illness! So, thanks, girls!</div><div><br /></div><div>It was disappointing that Phil attended when the numbers were so low. However, despite that, we chatted amongst ourselves for quite some time and learned more about the work the Chamber of Trade and Commerce does. Which, I must say, is quite extensive!</div><div><br /></div><div>I am attending a networking meeting tomorrow morning with Phil so will post some feedback on this and the HAHA blogspots.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jane.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-30180578282810439092010-07-21T11:48:00.002+01:002010-07-21T11:58:29.476+01:00Ah... sunshine again!Well, it's nice to see the sun back! I was beginning to think the summer had been and gone!<div><br /></div><div>So, we are all into garden mode! I am working in my garden office with the doors and windows wide open and it's absolutely lovely and VERY tranquil! I drove into Market Harborough yesterday and spared a thought for those cooped up in offices - I remember only too well what that was like!</div><div><br /></div><div>Guy and the boys are still working in London right now, but hope to be putting up wooden garden offices in the Midlands again very soon! It's encouraging to see how the work-from-home message finally seems to be spreading through the country. It seems to be quite an accepted practice in the South East, but here in the Midlands with all those road links, people seemed to miss the point a little bit.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, the media seem to be pushing the message and, as a Telegraph reader, there are often features about working from home or from a shed in the garden. It's all very encouraging, both from the perspective of Work Shacks and the planet!</div><div><br /></div><div>So, let's all spread the word: you no longer have to GO TO WORK! GET A WORK SHACK and let work come to you! You can even work in your PJs!</div><div><br /></div><div>Jane.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-86004427784968824452010-07-14T14:05:00.003+01:002010-07-14T14:44:17.826+01:00Where has the sunshine gone???Well, was that it? Surely summer hasn't passed us by already?!<br /><br />I can't believe I've spent the last couple of days in my garden office listening to the rain on the roof and the water running down the windows! Fortunately, I was dry and happy!<br /><br />I would like to mention the interesting evening I had in Market Harborough on Monday. I had been invited to the book launch of The Ideal Marketing Company's Alastair Campbell. I have spent a lot of time with Alastair and have never failed to be motivated by his ideas - I can only hope I carry them out to their full potential (but I have a niggling feeling I may not quite always do so!)<br /><br />With Guy currently working in London, I am Bunty-No-Mates, so was delighted to see three members of the Harborough Area Homeworking Alliance there - Wendy and Steve Bowkett and Karen Waugh. The room was packed and everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy Alastair's short seminar which was very informative and gave a brief idea of the topics covered in his book (which I'm looking forward to reading). <br /><br />The evening also gave me the opportunity to have a chat with a few people and I was thrilled to be able to meet up with an old school friend who I hadn't seen for years (apart from quickly spotting him at a Parents' Evening!). It was Martyn Dimblebee of Advanced Building Chemicals of Market Harborough (sales@advanced-b.c.co.uk) with whom I had spent many a happy hour as a kid! It appears he now deals in adhesives (which could be very useful to a business like ours that deals with wooden structures). I shall keep his card for future reference and drop him an e-mail very soon!<br /><br />It was also a pleasure to meet another couple of friendly chaps - Paul Bishop of Fractal Telecom Services (paul@fractaltelecom.co.uk/) was a real giggle to chat with and, having checked out his website, sounds as if he could do us all a good telecommunications deal!<br /><br />Also, it was a pleasure to talk to Ian Guyler of Pedigree Filbert Business Consultants (ianguyler@pedigreefilbert.co.uk). An interesting man who clearly knows a lot about business!<br /><br />So, all in all a great evening - thank you, Alastair!<br /><br />Don't forget, news of HAHA presentations can be found by clicking on the 'HAHA' link on this website. A schedule for the August meeting will be posted in the next week or so.<br /><br />Well, I think it's time for a cuppa. Not far to go, as I brought the kettle and milk up with me (how lazy is that?!). Then it's the school run and the end of the working day for me! So, back to the house at that point (oh no - the mess! That's why I love working in my Shack!).<br /><br />Bye for now, all!<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-24963775416169003122010-07-02T11:08:00.003+01:002010-07-02T11:25:44.625+01:00SHEDWORKERS GET THEIR 15 MINUTES OF FAME!I was alerted to a brilliant piece on the BBC1 Breakfast programme on Wednesday:<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/10458072.stm">http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/10458072.stm</a></div><div><br /></div><div>The article covers the ever-growing numbers of homeworkers who are working in sheds and shacks in their gardens! </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, some of us have thought this is a brilliant idea for quite a long time now, but for some, it's still a relatively new concept. But, it's a concept that's getting there!</div><div><br /></div><div>For a long time now, the little wooden hut has been a kind of sanctuary for the creative elite. Writers such as George Bernard Shaw and Philip Pullman have celebrated the small-but-distinct space between the world of domesticity and the world of make-believe! And, they're now not alone!</div><div><br /></div><div>In the clip, author and illustrator, Ted Dewan, speaks of how he is able to escape the modern, tech-filled world when he is in his shed. In fact, it was Philip Pullman who gave the shed to him as a gift - with the proviso that it be used for creative purposes! Indeed, writer, Penelope Thompson, is also clearly passionate about her very upmarket shed! The humble garden shack has clearly become the location of choice!</div><div><br /></div><div>The clip also talks about the latest exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum which is all about small spaces and hideaways. This would seems to be a very fast-growing concept indeed!</div><div><br /></div><div>So, all those with a Shack - pat yourselves on the back for being cutting-edge without being corporate! And all those yearning for a Shack - give us a call on 0845 234 0674 or speak to Guy directly on 07950 935917.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-91398075904385247772010-07-01T14:48:00.000+01:002010-07-02T09:55:24.291+01:00HAHA MEETING 1ST JULY 2010I have only just found time to publish this blog following today's successful HAHA meeting.<div><br /></div><div>Our speakers today were Wendy Aspland of Smart Cat, and Kate Jackson of Provision TLC.</div><div><br /></div><div>Wendy and Kate are two independent Personal Development Coaches who come from quite different professional backgrounds. Today, they pooled their knowledge to present a very thought-provoking, fun, interactive talk.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the exercise they gave us, we all had to stand in a circle around Wendy. Kate then announced what she could see when she looked at Wendy (ie, two eyes, two hands and two feet). As we moved around the group, people saw less of Wendy's eyes, hands and feet and then others saw more as we moved round to those facing her. The point being made here was that the subject remained the same but we all saw different things according to our particular perspectives.</div><div><br /></div><div>We were then asked to interact with others in the group to complete a questionnaire aimed at finding things in common. This was a great deal of fun, and very useful to the more introverted of the group who aren't quite so comfortable with striking up conversations. They were grateful for the opportunity to 'go up to someone' in this way. Most useful!</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you, Kate and Wendy, for a most enjoyable and highly effective presentation!</div>Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-45241855916247776072010-06-08T13:29:00.003+01:002010-06-08T13:38:42.649+01:00Summer in my ShackWell, it looked like summer was here last week! What has happened?<br /><br />Last week, I was cool and shaded in my wooden office, with the sounds of the birds around me! Today, I am working from the house! Although I know it would still be comfortable, I don't want to get wet running up the garden! Isn't that pathetic?! Still, at least I'm not stuck in a traffic jam on my way to a sweaty, people-packed office (I've done that before, and I didn't like it!).<br /><br />Guy and the team are currently working on a building project in London, so no Shacks right now, although there are a number of enquiries in the pipeline. It's encouraging to see how many people are switching on the idea of working from home. And, with an office or therapy suite in the garden, they don't need to lose their spare bedroom!<br /><br />We hope the next Shack we build will be nice and close to home - somewhere within the Midlands, would be nice (Leicestershire or Northamptonshire would be fantastic!). The good thing about this neck of the woods, of course, is that it is commuter belt. All those people trecking all those miles when they could carry out their work just as well (if not better) from the comfort of their own home office. And they money they spend on the building won't disappear (unlike the hundreds of pounds spent of petrol/train fares), but will be an added asset to their homes.<br /><br />Updates on the Work Shacks front will follow in the near future. Best regards to all.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-73811230402243496332010-06-04T13:39:00.001+01:002010-06-08T13:43:14.754+01:00Successful HAHA meetingI would like to thank Andrew Seaward of Cocktail Shaker Boys (www.cocktailshakerboys.co.uk) for giving the HAHA members an extremely informative and enjoyable talk about marketing your business free-of-charge using the internet and social networking sites. Andrew used his experience in the marketing industry and applied it to Cocktail Shaker Boys to show how easy and convenient this is.<br /><br />Andrew has given me the spur I needed to find out more about marketing both Work Shacks and the Harborough Area Homeworking Alliance via such methods. Thank you, Andrew!<br /><br />More information about the Homeworking Alliance to follow shortly.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-58333453776282828932010-05-06T14:59:00.001+01:002010-06-08T14:05:38.177+01:00HAHA meeting todayThanks to all who attended today's HAHA meeting - it was yet another hugely enjoyable morning out!<br /><br />I would also like to thank Julia Trustram Eve and Emily Keal for giving their fascinating presentations. <br /><br />Emily taught us about the world of pearls (how they are formed, what their values are and how to tell one from another). We got to handle (and buy) some lovely jewellery and, on a personal note, Emily has been kind enough to mend some of my own pearl jewellery. She is clearly very talented! You can learn more about Emily and her work at www.byemilyjane.co.uk.<br /><br />Julia gave a marvellous presentation on the wonderful world of English wine. Julia has worked in the industry for years and is hugely knowledgeable. I think we all learned a lot about English wine and how well it is selling these days (and how many awards it is winning!). I think a wine-tasting is on the cards for later in the year!<br /><br />As always, it was great to see everyone and I very much look forward to our next meeting.<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-60561436797176927272010-04-20T09:38:00.003+01:002010-04-20T09:47:28.301+01:00The latest Shack is complete!I thought I would let everyone know that the latest addition to the Work Shacks' portfolio is now complete!<br /><br />The two-office Shack, built in the garden of a rural Leicestershire house, is large, airy and ready to receive its occupants! And, with its own loo, there's no need for anyone to be leaving it until the end of each working day. And it's big, too! In fact, I have lived in smaller spaces (no kidding)!<br /><br />Guy, knowing how big the Shack needed to be, pushed the size just to within the Planners' limits. So, no Planning Permission required here! A superb bespoke design for considerably less than an extension of equivalent size would have been!<br /><br />Well, our customers are delighted with their new office and Work Shacks are very proud to have this beautiful garden building in their portfolio.<br /><br />We look forward to bringing news of our next Shack!<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-67227393036889189032010-04-01T13:51:00.001+01:002010-06-08T13:57:38.960+01:00HAHA meeting todayI would like to say what a super meeting we had at HAHA today. Our speaker was Steve Bowkett, Hypnotherapist, and he gave an informative and highly enjoyable talk, sharing with us a little about how the therapy works and highlighting this with a couple of case studies.<br /><br />As well as being a former teacher and the author of children's books and instructive texts, Steve has worked for some time as a Hypnotherapist in the south Leicestershire area. He clearly has a lot of experience and is a great speaker. Thanks, Steve!<br /><br />Steve can be contacted at steve@bowkett.freeserve.co.uk, or on 01858 565657.<br /><br />Thanks to all who attended - it's always good to see the Homeworking Alliance members!Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-50909367029222896392010-03-24T09:37:00.002+00:002010-03-24T09:43:12.866+00:00Snow, snow, go away!Well, I hate to be a misery as I really do love snow, but it's all getting a bit much now!<br /><br />I mean, it's great when you've nothing more urgent to do than to go sledging down a hill on a tea tray, but when you're trying to work outside, it can become a pain!<br /><br />I'm referring, of course, to Guy's current Work Shack project in Skeffington, Leicestershire. The ground works are underway, but the snow is seriously impeding progress! I believe it's difficult to work on the ground, when you can't actually see it!<br /><br />However, things are going well with the new garden office. It's pretty much on schedule and Guy is trying to work on the roof in a friend's barn while the snow is about, so we're getting there!<br /><br />I am tucked up nice and warm in my own garden office. With all this insulation, I believe it's probably warmer in here than it is in the house - in fact, the dogs have opted to join me, so I think it must be the case!<br /><br />I will check in with more news very soon.<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-85826966097577309342010-03-20T11:47:00.000+00:002010-03-24T09:53:46.897+00:00Homebuilding & Renovation ShowYesterday, Guy and I attended the Homebuilding and Renovation Show at the NEC. It was very interesting and we've seen some good stuff for our garden buildings/offices (such as underfloor heating!) Crikey, I can imagine living in a wooden cabin in your garden could easily become more luxurious than living in your house! Hell of a sight cheaper, too!<br /><br />I will let you know what innovative products we incorporate into our shacks!<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-42195667579461520242010-03-04T12:56:00.002+00:002010-03-24T09:44:59.515+00:00HAHAAfternoon, Work Shackers<br /><br />Just thought I would update my blog with details of the third HAHA meeting. It was very successful, with attendance growing to 22 - how wonderful!<br /><br />Today, we were entertained and informed by our speakers Steve Brewin, Sellmore Business (email details to follow), who helped us understand the selling process; Elaine Steel, The Colour Studio (elaine@thecolourstudio.com) held a demonstration of how colours suit/don't suit certain people's colouring and the effect of getting it right compared to getting it wrong! I was the model, so she was challenged from the word 'go' really! And, once again, our friend, Wendy Bowkett of Unique (wendy@creative-craft-clubs.orangehome.co.uk) brought along a selection of Mothering Sunday cards and gifts.<br /><br />Well, on with some 'real' work now, I suppose! There is likely to be a new Work Shack being built in the very near future, so watch this space!<br /><br />JaneWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-37835205184305315492010-02-15T09:28:00.001+00:002010-03-24T09:45:51.434+00:00New Work Shack garden officeHi, Work Shackers<br /><br />Well, today Guy started work on a new Work Shack project. It's a bespoke, two room garden office in the Leicestershire village of Skeffington. Being local is good for us, too, as we are eager to further establish ourselves in the Midlands (particularly the Leicester and Northampton areas).<br /><br />Designed by Work Shacks, the wooden garden office will be fully insulted, painted and finished to a high standard (as usual, of course!) but will be the largest garden building in our portfolio to date, with the added luxury of its own loo!<br /><br />It's a very exciting project for Work Shacks, as it's given our design team the chance to get creative and show just how much can be built in a garden, yet still not require planning permission! A very effective way of producing space, at minimal cost, for maximum results!<br /><br />More details will follow as the garden office is constructed.<br /><br />From my garden office - checking out for now,<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-32371055384969729792010-02-04T12:39:00.001+00:002010-03-24T09:46:18.333+00:00Another HAHA meetingAfternoon, Work Shackers<br /><br />Well, we have just had another interesting and most enjoyable HAHA meeting. Our attendance was up from 15 at the last one (which was also the first!) to 20! Fantastic!<br /><br />We enjoyed presentations from:<br />Steve Lane, PC Pal (steve.lane@pcpal.co.uk) who discussed internet safety;<br />Rob Dunnicliff, AIMS Accountants (rob.dunnicliff@aims.co.uk) who talked about his life in accountancy and how he is able to help the small business; and<br />Louise Jeffs, The Staged Home (thestagedhome@talktalk.net) who showed us how she is able to transform a dismal space into a new and vibrant one!<br />Wendy Bowkett, from Unique (wendy@creative-craft-clubs.orangehome.co.uk), brought along a selection of Valentine's Day cards and gifts from her home-shop is Ashley.<br /><br />So, all-in-all, a wonderful morning. I hope everyone is enjoying HAHA as much as I am, and I hope we are all able to help each other progress with our businesses.<br /><br />Will check in again soon from my garden cabin.<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-87736825433518187132010-01-07T17:49:00.005+00:002010-03-24T09:46:35.498+00:00HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HELLO HAHAEvening, Work Shackers!<br /><br />Well, let me begin by wishing everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR!<br /><br />I can't believe Christmas has come and gone and, after all my good intentions, I was so busy with festive preparations, I never got the chance to post a blog!<br /><br />However, now that we are back to normal (or as normal as the snow will allow) I am back at my laptop in my Work Shack (complete with heater, I hasten to add!)<br /><br />All us home-workers will be feeling a little smug, no doubt, that the rest of the country has been trying to do mad stuff like DRIVE TO WORK in the snow! As Harry Enfield would say, "You don't wanna do that!" Get yourself a little office in the garden and then all you have to do is shovel a little path up to it and you're sorted!<br /><br />Well, I must tell everyone about Work Shacks' latest venture. It's a small, informal group that goes by the name of HAHA (Harborough Area Home-working Alliance) and is sponsored by Work Shacks. We met today for the first time and I was thrilled at the turnout! Let me explain what it's all about...<br /><br />Having attended last November's Enterprise Nation 'Home Enterprise Day', I was inspired to create a social/networking group for my local area. Having worked from home for some years, and having friends who are also home-based, I knew I would have a nice little gathering from which to launch the group. So, I went for it, and HAHA was created.<br /><br />The thing that stood out most about this group of self-motivated individuals was how diverse our skill-base was. We had everyone there from sales, to accounting, to a hypnotherapy practitioner! Wonderful!<br /><br />The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday 4th February, then every first Thursday in the month until... well, forever, I hope!<br /><br />I will keep everyone updated about the progress of HAHA and, of course, any developments on the Work Shacks front.<br /><br />So, until then, keep warm, everyone!<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-68293440129438900292009-12-15T11:44:00.003+00:002010-03-24T09:46:48.630+00:00Ten days to Christmas!Well, can you believe it, Work Shackers? Christmas is almost here!!!<br /><br />I have been in touch with Father Christmas and all seems to be progressing well.<br /><br />I am winding up for the festive period about now. Not too much work, thank goodness! Which leaves me to concentrate on getting things sorted for the kids. I shall shut up my shack with regards to its role as my office... and re-open it as a festive grotto of my very own! Santa, eat your heart out! Who knows, we may even enjoy our Christmas dinner up there!<br /><br />Well, the cards are just about written now, so I shall get them distributed shortly.<br /><br />Will check in again before the big day!<br /><br />Catchya then, Work Shackers!<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-70659619805818350342009-12-02T13:37:00.003+00:002010-03-24T09:47:06.855+00:00December already!Afternoon, Work Shackers!<br /><br />Can you believe it's December already? I'm struggling to come to terms with this, you know. In fact, I didn't eat my advent chocolate till bedtime last night as I had forgotten what day it was.<br /><br />I'm in the shack and wondering when I will bite the bullet and add some festive decorations to my office... mmm, not sure. Don't really feel Christmassy enough yet, but then again I don't want to leave it too late and be accused by Guy of being a big Scrooge! Shall ponder further, no doubt...<br /><br />Well, it has turned pretty wintery. The shack is nicely insulated and my little heater keeps me warm. And it's nice to know I'm not heating an entire house just to warm my extremities! In fact, I am warmer in my office garden than I used to be in the last office in which I worked! And I don't have to put up with office politics - bliss!<br /><br />I am currently working on a new project to run alongside Work Shacks and will keep you posted. Should be good - especially if you live in the Leicestershire/Northamptonshire area!<br /><br />On that note, I really should be going. I've got Guy's work diary to sort out and I have a joint of gammon to put in the oven. Homeworking is great - how else could you just pop and do that and be back at your desk in a matter of moments?<br /><br />Will check in again very soon and will try to dig up some juicy gossip for my next blog!<br /><br />Keep the 'homeworking' flag flying, folks (ooo, very alliterative!)<br /><br />Jane.Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-75159224621439609712009-11-24T12:52:00.002+00:002009-11-24T13:18:25.394+00:00Tuesday's shameless self-promotionHi, Work Shackers.<br /><br />It's Tuesday and, as promised, my blog is going to be a shameless orgy of self-promotion - crikey, I never thought I would be using such language within the innocent surroundings of a little garden shack! It makes me feel a bit dirty, like Christina Aguilera! But, hey, what the hell...<br /><br />Work Shacks supplies and fits garden buildings not only in the Northamptonshire and Leicestershire area, but also nationwide. These rather super 'sheds' can be used for a multitude of purposes, for example, as a home office, therapy suite, summer house, kids' playroom, music room, artist's studio or even as an entertainment space. They are tailor-made to your requirements; you want electricity - you've got it; you want water - you've got it; you want drainage; guess what, yep, you've got it!<br /><br />Sheds are no longer just for spades and lawnmowers, you know! In the same way as bedrooms and reception rooms don't have to be given up for offices. Leave your dining room as a dining room, make up your spare room as a welcoming space for visitors. Move your office/beauty parlour/nail bar/craft workshop into the garden! No more clearing the table for dinner or shoving everything into a cupboard when you need an extra room! Simple!<br /><br />And, of course, it is a very economical way of creating more space; way cheaper than an extension or attic converstion. Plus, your garden becomes useful the whole year round, with top-quality insulation keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter.<br /><br />So, buck the trend, think differently! Make your garden office/suite/room the envy of all your friends! EVERYONE has a dining room, EVERYONE has a bedroom - how fantastic to be visionary enough to own a WORK SHACK!!!<br /><br />Work Shacks' very own Guy is on hand to advise every step of the way so, whether you are in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, or any other 'shire', give us a call and tell us your story. Let us help turn your garden into a workspace like no other!<br /><br />A shed is just a shed, but a shack can change your life! Your life, your shack...<br /><br />Thanks for staying with me, Work Shackers! Watch this space for more ramblings...<br /><br />Jane.<br />xWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-76054896275028745342009-11-23T10:34:00.002+00:002009-11-23T10:47:23.530+00:00Hello, Alex!I wanted to post a separate blog about my finally meeting up with Alex Johnson of www.shedworking.co.uk. I have communicated with Alex quite a few times and Guy and I are avid Shedworking fans! Well, we would be, wouldn't we? It was great to finally meet up with him!<br /><br />One thing has become apparent to us, though: we need to learn to 'twitter'! I fear we might be left behind if we don't!<br /><br />We have some great plans for videos to promote Work Shacks, too. Home Enterprise Day really is bringing the creative side of us out. I will update the blog regularly with progress reports.<br /><br />So, back to work. Coffee and toast done, I must now get down to my marketing strategies for the day.<br /><br />Hope to talk again soon, Alex - hoorah for Shedworking!<br /><br />Jane<br />xWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-39516676002464675292009-11-23T09:32:00.002+00:002009-11-23T10:24:57.894+00:00Home Enterprise DayWell, it's Monday morning and I'm back in my shack! However, I'm quite excited today...<br /><br />Last Friday, Guy and I attended Enterprise Nation's 'Home Enterprise Day' in London. What a fantastic day! It was entertaining, informative and gave us the chance to meet some great people.<br /><br />We never got the chance to say a proper "thank you" to Emma Jones, the founder of Enterprise Nation. So, just in case she reads this: "thank you, Emma!"<br /><br />We got the opportunity to speak to some fascinating and highly motivated people, too. Work Shacks was introduced to John Randall of JV Bouncy Castle Hire; Samantha Salisbury of Jonsam Events (www.jonsamevents.co.uk), who organises corporate events and weddings, and Kate Bacon of Pier to Peer (kate@katebacon.com) who deals in virtual assistants (fascinating concept!).<br /><br />We heard from several speakers and, most memorably, from former TV Dragon, Doug Richard. Both funny and informative, the one thing he impressed upon us two was that you don't need money to push forward a home-venture.<br /><br />So, I'm really fired-up and ready to go! My next blog is going to be unashamedly self-promotional. I'm going to get us as close to the google top as possible, so I'm afraid it might not make for very entertaining reading!<br /><br />I'm off to my shack's 'kitchen corner' now for toast and coffee! Will check in again soon. <br /><br />Thank you for staying with me while I ramble...<br /><br />Jane<br />xWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-62392909072296700842009-10-12T13:54:00.002+01:002009-10-12T14:06:14.163+01:00Goodbye, summer... hello, autumn!Hi, Workshackers!<br /><br />Well, it's finally happened! I've had to employ my little heater in my garden office! I was avoiding it for as long as I could, but, despite the thick insulation, I've had to take the chill off!<br /><br />Of course, once the sun moves round and it starts coming through my windows, my office is as warm as toast! I certainly know that, on the occasions I go into the office 'proper', I can't feel the sun on my face! Working in the garden really is wonderful!<br /><br />We're planning on entertaining next weekend, since it's been a while since we have and are feeling a little 'out of the loop'! So, whoever is lucky (?) enough to receive the invitation, will be wined and dined in the shack! Out will go the laptop and in will come the table cloth and extra chairs! And, hey presto! Our very own restaurant! Office to eatery in a matter of moments! Who would've thought a shack in the garden could be so versatile!<br /><br />Well, I've finished for the day now. So, I'm off to mow the lawn (getting into the garden office is making me feel a bit like Ray Mears - time for action, I feel!)<br /><br />Will catch up with the garden-working crew later in the week. Until then, all the best,<br /><br />Jane.<br /><br />P.S. Workshacks will be delighted to welcome Oliver back to work next week. He has his cast off on Wednesday after a run-in with a sumo wrestler (it's true!) Poor old Ollie is not looking forward to having a skinny arm, though. I know, maybe we could temporarily kit out our garden office as a gym - get those wimpy muscles back to their former glory!<br /><br />xxxWork Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312296845905419488.post-53378282853588537122009-10-04T19:47:00.002+01:002009-10-04T20:06:47.041+01:00Just a quick ramble from yours truly<br />sunday evening sitting in the business hub wishing i could work from here all the time. Ill have to be content on making others dreams come true by creating a workshack space for them, jumping in the shack mobile at 6.45 and heading for the M1 THE POSITIVE IS OF CAUSE when you are all working from your WORKSHACKS ILL BE THE ONLY ONE ON THE M1. hears to progress. GUY......Work Shacks Teamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13986098284553921562noreply@blogger.com0