| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| EnchantedWoodsGirl |
Posted - May 21 2006 : 09:53:41 AM
Fibromyalgia caused me to have to leave my job at the hospital years ago - I had to find a way to help bring money in - I thought I would share my ideas with you.
I sell on Ebay - my ebay id is enchantedwoodcottagechic - most of the stuff I sell is curbside treasure - I tell you, once you get the knack for ebay, it becomes addictive. You will get to know what sells - for instance, vintage guitars - don't care how beat up they are, they sell- this is the second I have had on in a few weeks and they go for very good money- I know diddly about instruments and I make sure I let them know that in advance, I just take a lot of pictures. BTW most of the old toys and games for the 1960's are worth a mint. You would be surprised what is worth money, trust me on that!
I have an online used book business via abebooks.com and alibris.com Enchanted Wood Books - I have well over 2,000 books listed. I get them curbside or thrift shops or fleamarkets. The used book business is an excellent way to earn a second income. This year I will go completely legal with my business with name etc. The very first book I sold was called "Daddy was an Undertaker" I had picked it up cause it sounded strange and it was a hard to find book. The rest is history. The software for this is called Homebase and it it provided free for your listings - you are charged a monthly fee from the sites to list your books but you can sell a lot of books to make up the difference.
I have to tell you one time my husband picked up two volumes of the Memoirs of Harry Truman and I was researching the prices on abebooks.com when I noticed one of these was indeed signed by Harry Truman - I sold that book on Ebay for $376 and we only paid 20 cents for the books - most thrift shops, Goodwills etc do not check the insides of the books for signatures.
Freelance at something you do - for me it is writing - there are many writer's forums online that will tell you about jobs for freelancers. Right now I work freelance for PersonalsTrainer.com I help people who are verbally challenged (mostly men lol) put together a personal ad. I get paid any where from $5.98 to $65 per order and I get paid once a month via a check in the mail - great way to make extra money.
There are sites that will pay you to write articles on subjects you know about and have to do just a little research on. I used to write for Write for Cash and loved it - got paid via Pay Pal.
Years ago I used to take in dogs in my Doggy Camp for people going on vacation - this was good, only took a few small dogs at a time and it worked out okay for me. Now I have too many animals of my own to do this.
My husband has a shop in a local flea market where we sell furniture and other things - this is his job - other than his regular job and he loves it, he loves being around people.
If I can help anyone let me know!
Kathy of the Enchanted Wood |
| 25 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Bensgrandma |
Posted - Feb 02 2011 : 06:01:42 AM
I want to thank all of you for the wonderful ideas here. I read them outloud to my husband and he loves them. We are both retired - well he is retired and I and to leave my job due to some health issues and his being really lonely during the day. We have been married for 41 years. The part-time job I had actually cost us more in taxes than I made!
I sell on ebay and etsy. My ebay ID is corncribb1. I only sell there when they have free listing fees. My items generally do not sell for much on there. I am working on my etsy shop to get it up and running. We used to raise chickens and sell eggs to the neighbors, etc. It was more a thing for the kids to do and they did fairly well at it. Of course, they loved it because they got to keep their money.
I am going to check out the book sites to see what is selling. That sounds like something that would be good in our area.
On another note, those that have Fibro have you been tested for Vitamin D deficiency? I was told by one doctor I had fibro - it is really a horrible syndrome and I feel sorry for those that have it. Anyway I really didn't believe I had it. I didn't like the doctor's comment "some people with this carry it too far." I found another doctor and I told him exactly what she said. He ran a bunch of blood work tests and found out I actually had thyroid problems and Vitamin D deficiency. I have been doing much better with those under control. If you haven't had your Vitamin D checked, I would ask to have it done. It is possible to have that and FMS too!
Blessings to all who suffer with FMS. I hope you have some pain free days.
I look forward to hearing more crafty ways farmgirls are earning money at home.
Alexis
http://www.etsy.com/shop/HugsandStitches |
| bohemian_girl |
Posted - Feb 01 2011 : 6:32:45 PM
Kathy,
Thank you for posting this thread! As I was reading your post, you got me curious about a couple of things. I currently sell on Amazon but wanted to sell on another outlets to sell my books on. I was curious as to what "Homebase" was? Could you explain further?
Also, I love to write as well and was wondering if you could post some links on the freelancing jobs?
Thank you again for this thread!
Kelli Jo
"Well behaved women rarely make history."
-Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
http://thebohemianrabbit.blogspot.com |
| GoddessintheGroove |
Posted - Jan 22 2011 : 03:54:16 AM
Kathy,
this is fabulous! I am the thrift store queen, my kids and I love to treasure hunt. I have often found clothes and things that were worth more than priced, but ebay has gotten so crazy with fees...
Anyways, I love cowboy boots, so that is what I am always on the hunt for. I just went into ebay to sell two pair my daughter does not wear, and AMAZED at the prices they go for! So I have decided to get back in the saddle, and sell some of the boots I find :). Hopefully, I will be as successful as you!
BTW, LOVE the book story. We always buy books....we are a bit book crazy. I often see people in the classic book section, I am sure they resell. I would not have a clue what to search for.
Greetings,
Heike
FarmGirl Sister #2245
"A journey back to the roots..."
http://www.herbmagik.com
"Women with opinions, pendants, & KitchenWitches...all in one."
http://www.goddessinthegroove.com
Find me on FB: http://www.facebook.com/theGoddessintheGroove |
| phonelady |
Posted - Jan 19 2011 : 8:32:47 PM
Thanks for posting this Kathy. I have FM too and find that I can't do the jobs I used too.
Thought about selling on eBay but just haven't gotten out there to find the goodies.
Was it easy to sign up and get started with them?
Didn't know how you'all got the books resold.
Will give this a look.
Thanks again!
Carla
It's not just life-
It's an adventure!
http://familyhistoryfindings.blogspot.com/ |
| momdrinkstea |
Posted - Jan 14 2011 : 4:24:37 PM
I asked my mom to ask all of her retired friends for cartons, she gathers them
together for me. Also, ask neighbors! Mine are great about saving them for me!
Check with a local school/hospital cafeteria, they may save them for you too.
Good luck!
Brandee...
I have Barred Rocks, Ameraucanas, Aracaunas, Australorps, Leghorns, New Hampshire Reds,
asst. bantams (mille fleur, dutch, etc.) and Khaki Campbell Ducks. Great minds think alike!
:)
Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? A: To prove to the opossum that it could be done!
Stacked Stone Farm www.stackedstonefarm.blogspot.com |
| JojoNH |
Posted - Jan 13 2011 : 05:09:12 AM
Just a quick thought, I sell my eggs as well ( although I have a very small flock ) I have my customers save the cartons for me, then whenever I deliver their eggs, I pick up the cartons. This works great and when they are to worn or have gotten dirty, I use them as kindling for my wood stove. Also, for the folks that come to pick up their eggs, have a box for them to place their empty egg cartons in, you will be surprised how many you receive!
Joanna #566
JojoNH
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CountryCents
http://CountryCents.Blogspot.com
http://www.Eastwooddesigns.com "For all your Promotional Needs"
www.JoannasHomeStudio.com "Keeping traditions alive a stitch at a time" |
| homsteddinmom |
Posted - Jan 13 2011 : 04:30:18 AM
I forgot to add that i also buy my cartons used at a local small animal auction. I just bought 125 egg cartons, there were 40 18 ct and the rest were 12 ct for $10, that makes them .08¢ each. I cannot buy them new for that price and i dont have anyone that will save cartons for me as my mom sells her eggs to so she reuses hers too.
Homesteading Mom in East Texas. Raising chickens, Rabbits and goats here on my farm! |
| homsteddinmom |
Posted - Jan 13 2011 : 04:27:57 AM
I have about 80 hens right now, I have black jersey giants, barred rock, Rhode island reds, americaunas, also have a set of bb red banties. I have 50 black australorp eggs in the bator right now and just got 4 frizzles given to me..lol. I love my green eggs but those darn americaunas LOVE to hide there eggs! We free range, feed out scraps, bread and a 12% sweet feed along with hen scratch. Plus they chase the dogs away from there dog food....lol I love my chickens but would rethink the amount if i was to restart!
Homesteading Mom in East Texas. Raising chickens, Rabbits and goats here on my farm! |
| fudsy |
Posted - Jan 12 2011 : 9:03:12 PM
Chickens would be more for my own use. Our local Co-Op store is having a seminar early Feb. on poultry raising that I plan on attending. I don't think it will happen this year. DH isn't real big on the idea but I keep working him
Farmgirl Sister #1599
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| momdrinkstea |
Posted - Jan 12 2011 : 7:33:35 PM
We free-range, so use less feed, and we have a local farmer grind a mix for us - it's $12 for 80 lbs.
They get garden/bread scraps too. I have about 10 people saving cartons for me, so we get those for free,
and we're recycling! I put a printed label on the old cartons.
I agree with Brandee though, chickens are PIGS! LOL
If you're buying feed at a farm supply, the costs can add up quickly.
How many chickens have you, Brandee? What kinds?
Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? A: To prove to the opossum that it could be done!
Stacked Stone Farm www.stackedstonefarm.blogspot.com |
| homsteddinmom |
Posted - Jan 12 2011 : 07:41:07 AM
i wouldnt get chickens to sell for eggs unless you are 100000000% sure you can sell the eggs. Where i am located we cant hardly give them away at $2 a dozen. Of course you would have to have egg cartons too and they are new .50¢ each unless you sell them cheaper and teh customer provide there own carton. You must also factor in the price of feed to feed the chickens. If you feed a layer pellet they tend to run between $12-$15 a bag, they eat alot if you cant free range them. I pay out way more in feed than i can sell my eggs for.
Homesteading Mom in East Texas. Raising chickens, Rabbits and goats here on my farm! |
| momdrinkstea |
Posted - Jan 08 2011 : 09:23:47 AM
Pamela...
I'm selling eggs and broiler chickens through a local CSA.
His farm takes the orders for a whole season for veggies, my offerings
are an add-on to his. We're selling a "share" of 18 weeks of a dozen eggs/week + 2
broiler chickens at the end of the season for $60.
Customers pay up front, and you have guaranteed sales.
You could also set up your own "CSA" with egg shares, advertising on craigslist,
they have a "farm & garden" section under the for sale listing.
Good luck! Here's hoping for your success! :)
Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? A: To prove to the opossum that it could be done!
Stacked Stone Farm www.stackedstonefarm.blogspot.com |
| fudsy |
Posted - Jan 07 2011 : 3:53:38 PM
Thanks for the idea about storage auctions. The sad part is we already have to auction of a couple of units a year for non-payment. Let me tell ya, it's not like on T.V. your lucky to get even half of what is owed against a unit. I am considering chickens for eggs. There are a couple of people in the area who sell and they can't keep up with the demand. I've put out feelers for an idea on another forum and since she lives on the east coast my hope is won't be an issue. That is to sell dried fruit and vegtable treats for small animals. The response has been supportive and I'll try it this summer, won't make me rich but if it helps make the car payment I'm happy
Farmgirl Sister #1599
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| momdrinkstea |
Posted - Jan 07 2011 : 11:48:58 AM
Pamela...
About your storage units...
I saw that reality show on TV where bidders bid on storage units
at an auction. Maybe you could fill some with odds & ends, things picked
up at garage/tag/estate sales, etc. and get an auctioneer to sell them off?
Bidders can only peek inside, not go in to inspect the contents.
Advertise the auctions, get lots of bidders.
Might work, that TV show is free publicity! LOL
Good luck!
TJ...
I buy books from abebooks all the time, the prices are the best.
I've bought them from amazon and ebay, too. Not sure that you'd
get the best price on abebooks, it's usually great for the buyer though. Amazon or ebay may be your best bet. Good luck! Best wishes! :)
Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? A: To prove to the opossum that it could be done!
Stacked Stone Farm www.stackedstonefarm.blogspot.com |
| star-schipp |
Posted - Jan 07 2011 : 09:56:03 AM
Hi, Susan...I'm a nurse too but work from home for an insurance company - have you checked into being a case manager?
We can do no great things; only small things with great love - Mother Teresa
Star - farmgirl sister #1927
Master Food Preserver |
| homsteddinmom |
Posted - Jan 07 2011 : 07:56:57 AM
bumping this up to see if there are more ideas! i just recently lost my job and need more income!
Homesteading Mom in East Texas. Raising chickens, Rabbits and goats here on my farm! |
| OneHippieChick |
Posted - Dec 31 2010 : 10:29:46 PM
Yep, Fibro here too, as well as Systemic Lupus. I've been trying to find a way to work at home and quit my regular job for awhile now, but since I'm a nurse that's hard to do. It's becoming difficult to continue to work as a floor nurse anymore.
quote:
Originally posted by mommom
Hi Joy! I too have fibromyalgia. I am so thankful that you found a way to stay home and make money! You know, Fibromyalgia is a syndrome: acid reflux is a disease. Make sense to you? Take care! Susan
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Susan ~ Farmgirl Sister #1978
Fiber artist, spins, knits, crochets, sews, weaves, quilts, soap maker, as well as various beauty products and some natural cosmetics
Working on getting my Etsy website and blog up and running - stay tuned!
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| fudsy |
Posted - Dec 31 2010 : 08:51:57 AM
One thing I've been racking my brain about is. We own a mobile home park and storage units. We went from 100% full to about 50% in less then 2years and our payments to the bank have not gone down. I keep trying to figure out what else can a person do with storage units for income (no power to them). I don't want to have to try and find an outside job again it took me 6 years to learn to enjoy being a stay at home wife and partner and now I don't want to give that up. I have no other talents really
Farmgirl Sister #1599
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| Penny Wise |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 06:04:40 AM
I knew I couldn't do that and work my full time job and I could't take that much time off, so... here I am now with no job, and I haven't found a Medical Assistant job yet. Problem is, there isn't anything I'm really, really good at. I cook, I can, I sew... but I don't know if I'm good enough at anything to sell it. There are too many things I want to learn to do-I don't focus on one thing to learn it, I jump around from one to another before I get really good at them! Plus, I don't have extra money to buy supplies! Argh!
[/quote]
sheri-i'm kindof in a boat similar-i work only part time but some weeks all hours-can't get a "traditional" PT to work in addition to -and can't afford to give up what i do have--- have many talents but none that seem marketable......need to focus!
congrats on your new education and sending prayers you can get the job to go with it!!!!!!!!!!
Farmgirl # 2139
~*~ counting my pennies and biding my time; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| SherBear |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 12:48:44 AM
I would love to do something to make some extra money right now. I just finished going to school to be a Medical Assistant and had to quit my job to do my externship. The externship meant working 40 hours a week (and sometimes 50) without getting paid, for 5 weeks. I knew I couldn't do that and work my full time job and I could't take that much time off, so... here I am now with no job, and I haven't found a Medical Assistant job yet. Problem is, there isn't anything I'm really, really good at. I cook, I can, I sew... but I don't know if I'm good enough at anything to sell it. There are too many things I want to learn to do-I don't focus on one thing to learn it, I jump around from one to another before I get really good at them! Plus, I don't have extra money to buy supplies! Argh! |
| goneriding |
Posted - Dec 08 2010 : 8:46:01 PM
I love to write but I'm more of a journalist type, rather than a story telling type. I have my blog but it's more for venting and staying sane while on the road rather than telling a story.
Something people might want to think about is the Android Apps. They are open source and if you come up with a good 'un, you might make some good money. A friend of mine is trying to do a booklet thingy and see how it goes.
I have mucho libras (many books) and am checking out the above mentioned sites. I peruse old book stores all the time and find some treasures. Hmmmm.... 
Then, turns out, I'm a pretty good seamstress but being on the road all the time, sewing time is about non-existent. Also, have thought of pre-packaged food 'kits', but again, I'm on the road and don't have the way to do it. I have the money/means, just not the way.
Count me among the Fibro club members but for some reason, it's not bothering me much. Not sure why, just not. 
For some 'venting'-type of entertainment, please read my blog, http://lostadventuresintrucking.blogspot.com . Now with pictures!!
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| TJinMT |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 11:46:16 AM
I'm interested in Kathy's idea about selling used books from home - does anyone else have any experience with the two websites, abebooks and alibris, that she mentioned? Anyone do amazon.com? I'm trying to figure out where I can earn the most. I don't have tens of thousands of books to sell, more like a few dozen at first. Anyone have any thoughts?? Thanks!
~TJ of Green Willow Place
www.MyWesternHome.wordpress.com
"I wanna write my blog, and live my life, beneath these Western Skies..." (with apologies to Chris LeDoux! smile!) |
| patchworkpeace |
Posted - Jul 06 2010 : 4:18:58 PM
Great ideas, I've learned so much from reading everyone's comments. Thanks for sharing what you do, Kathy. I have health issues that don't lend themselves to doing much work outside the home, and this has been very informative.
God bless you!
Judy
Success is measured not by the position one reaches but by the obstacles one has to overcome to reach it. Booker T. Washington |
| TeaPriestess |
Posted - Jul 06 2010 : 09:32:58 AM
quote:
Originally posted by katalind
Problem is doing hair is all I've done for the last 17 years and I don't have much experience doing anything else.
When I lived in NC years ago, I always got my hair done by a lady who was doing hair in her home because she was homeschooling. It was kind of neat to go to her house and get my hair done in her kitchen...reminded me of when my mom used to do my hair as a little girl. Hope you can do something like that too.
"Tea is drunk to forget the din of the world."- Tien Yiheng
Yay I'm Farmgirl Sister #1690! |
| pnickols |
Posted - Jul 04 2010 : 4:23:20 PM
Sarah,
thanks for the info, I think I will try Etsy and some craft shows and I have even considered creating a flyer to send to be posted and Obstetrician and Pediatrician offices |
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