It's only the 3rd day of April and... it felt like summer out there this afternoon. I love it! I mean, it worries me, but I love it!

This week has been quite hectic -- I'm working a big contract job that only pays once a month. Normally this would be just fine with me but I've just finished up one of my weekly-paying contracts and was running on fumes with that one so this first month of work with no pay has left me short on my rent! It'll get paid, certainly, when the pay cheque comes in some time this week. But 'late' is not usually my style. I love this new contract, don't get me wrong, but it's definitely frustrating waiting for that first paycheque.

Here's a word of advice for any of you ladies planning on becoming freelance writers, editors, photographers, web designers, etc.:

When negotiating a contract/project, add a clause that sees that you receive a deposit up front. There's nothing quite as awful as working for someone for a whole month only to be given the runaround when the invoice is received. It's happened to me more times that I care to admit. Ask for 25%... maybe even 50%! If the company is serious about hiring you on for the contract, they won't mind providing you with a deposit. You need to live for that month, right? I've begun not only asking for a deposit, but also adding that if the invoice is paid within the first week of receipt I will give the business a discount -- 5-10%, just enough to motivate them to pay promptly.

I wish I'd adopted this plan earlier. I would have my rent paid on time and groceries in the house. Some day soon I hope to be better at this whole freelance thing. I see the professionals and am in awe of how organized and efficient they are!

I'm still learning!