Create and use storage spaces for those things that would otherwise become clutter - and create chaos. Remember, clutter usually makes a place appear dirty... or at least un-inviting. Give things you use on a regular basis - a regular place to call their own...everything in it's place means less wasted time and less frustration. Clean on a regular basis...but also choose materials and accessories which are easy to clean. Add sound of water or other soothing backround sounds...instead of constant "chatter" of television. You will find it's also good for encouraging conversation. And there is nothing stopping you from turning off phone now and then, either. Putting more effort into making your home someplace special will pay off

But be warned...when others see what your home has become - that wonderful haven from stresses of world - they may be trying to "get away from it all" at your house! Be sure to specify "check out times" and post them where they can be easily seen by guests.

Copyright 2000-2003 Hearts Door (c/o C.L. Hanna)

Fat chance.

I'm not saying that all publishers do this; I know many that clean their lists on a regular basis. The long-time publishers who have grown their lists by traditional means certainly do. That's why they can command good prices for advertising - and get it.

But how many of you have guts to do what I did?

MAKE THEM RE-CONFIRM EVERY YEAR.

Go ahead - I challenge you.

Make them take some sort of action that REQUIRES them to say "Yes, keep me on your list." Or else they don't get newsletter. Period. No exceptions.

Watch those subscriber numbers drop like a rock - and watch your "open rate" climb.

Because what you're really after is sustained, loyal readership. Trusting subscribers who know that you are going to provide them with good, solid information.

And you're going to have to give it to them - otherwise, you'll never accomplish what it is you intended to do when you started publishing your newsletter.

Like making money.