How Working Online Has Drastically Transformed Me.
Posted by Holly in Blunt Honesty, Holly Mann, Interesting, Success, Transformation
Imagine yourself five years ago… where were you at?
Just five years ago, I lived in a small mountain village near the Golden Triangle in northern Thailand – and had very little money saved after working a dangerous job in Iraq. I had just left my job as a civilian contractor working at Baghdad International Airport. After leaving Iraq, rather than flying directly to the United States to reunite with family, I flew straight over to Thailand instead. I had lived in Thailand previously as an exchange student at the ages of 16-17, and always planned to return, but never had enough money. Because of the job I held in Iraq, I had saved just enough money to fly to Thailand and stay there for a while. I wasn’t sure at the time how long I would stay for. While I was sitting in the bus station in Bangkok, I met a backpacking traveler who told me about a town called Pai. I was intrigued and instead of buying tickets to the place I originally planned to visit, I bought the bus tickets to Pai instead. That single decision completely changed the entire outcome of my life.
I fell in love with the town, the people and the beauty of the mountains. I ended up renting a very simple home outside of town, with the local Burmese farmers as neighbors, and loved the experience. My home was $50 USD per month to rent, I had a motorbike I rented monthly for a little less than that, and food was deliciously cheap. I got to know the people who lived nearby because the children couldn’t afford to go to school, or weren’t Thai citizens – so rather than following their parents at work in the garlic fields, they hung out at my home with me. I became very close with the kids – more than anyone else. So often in Pai when it would rain, all of the electricity in the town would go out. The town’s water was dispersed through an electric pump and when we had no electricity, we also had no water. There were times when I’d bathe outside my home in the small flowing stream – in a sarong, with the people. It was not a spectacle to them, but life as they lived it. It made me appreciate the simple things I took for granted while living in the United States.
The reason I decided to write about this today was because as I was browsing through my computer a while ago, and I stumbled upon my old photos of life in Pai. I looked at each picture as though I was seeing something for the very first time and amazed at how different life is now. It’s only been 5 years – and I went from being broke (just getting out of the Army and quitting my job in Iraq), living in a strange town in the mountains, to where I am at now. And when I write that, I mean where I am at in this sense – I have a son who is four, I live in America, I honestly love my job, and I have survived these strange adventures.
Anything is possible.
If you are thinking about working online, or have dreams that you want to fulfill (which may have nothing to do with working online) – then do what you need to do to make it happen. Life is so short. The thing I learned from the kids in Thailand and the Burmese people was that they were truly happy with what they had. That doesn’t mean you should be content with your 9 to 5 job that you despise – but either do something to alter your situation in a positive way, or try to appreciate it for what it is. Try to rid your life of excuses and complaining – and try to change your life yourself. It is your life!
I hope this short post about how my life has drastically changed over the past 5 years has inspired you in some way. Whatever your dreams are – however out of reach they may seem at times – just take one step at a time to get close enough to grab onto it. Before you know it – it’s your reality.
If you’re totally new to my website and you are interesting in making money online and transforming your life – take a look at Honest Riches. Honest Riches is my comprehensive Internet Marketing guide for people who want to make money online, with Honest Methods. Over 35,000 copies have been sold. It’s available in e-book format or in paperback here.
52 Responses to “How Working Online Has Drastically Transformed Me.”
Leave a Reply
Shane
04. Aug, 2009
Great story! It’s amazing a such small decisions at the time can lead to major, life-altering changes down the road. You’re right…it’s wild what we take for granted here in the USA. Here I was tonight looking for something sweet to eat in the kitchen…completely grazing over the chips, fruit, pudding, milk, tea, etc when all I really needed was right in front of me.
Your story is an inspiration…I’ve actually been taking a look at my life a lot lately to figure out what I need to do to get to where I want to be. What you said just added fuel to the fire, so thank you!
Okay…I admit…I still want something sweet to eat!
Holly
04. Aug, 2009
Thanks for the comment Shane. You’re right as well about how such seemingly small decisions can have the largest impact on a person’s life. There are other situations in my life where someone offered to help me in some way – and they may not know it (as they may think it was minor at the time) but those things have also completely changed my life and had a positive impact on my future.
About taking things for granted – I am the same ..and even tonight I had some cravings for ice cream. I just went in the kitchen and got it. We have a lot of things here in the US and a lot of choices and options – varieties upon varieties of things. It seems to make us want more and more and better “stuff” but in the end that stuff won’t fulfill anything significant (I think anyway). Besides the stuff though – I really appreciate the freedom gained from having financial stability or being able to work for yourself.
Jenny
05. Aug, 2009
I truly appreciate you sharing this story, it is very inspiring and something I needed to hear.
Five years ago I was working at a job I didn’t like and sometimes I take for granted what I have now.
Thanks Holly
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Thanks Jenny.
I appreciate your comment and it’s always nice to hear from you!
Roland Aichinger
05. Aug, 2009
Hi Holly!
I totally agree with you!
It often takes just one little step or movement that has a big impact on our lives.
And if it is just a little smile in the right moment…
There are two quotations that I really like, in this context:
“Never neglect the little things. Never skimp on that extra effort, that additional few minutes, that soft word of praise or thanks, that delivery of the very best that you can do. It does not matter what others think, it is of prime importance, however, what you think about you. You can never do your best, which should always be your trademark, if you are cutting corners and shirking responsibilities. You are special. Act it. Never neglect the little things….!” – by Og Mandino
and
“We can not do great things. We can only do little things with great love….!” – by Mother Teresa
More than once in my life, there have been situations, where I didn´t know what to do or where to go.
And it always really where these small little tiny things that made all the difference.
We always tend to go the way with the less obstacles on it, but that´s not always the right one.
Life on its own is a challenge, and the way we meet that challenge will make all the difference.
Just in my opinion!
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Holly!
Best regards, Roland
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Hi Roland and thank you for the comment and awesome quotes! I love this one: “We can not do great things. We can only do little things with great love….!” – by Mother Teresa and I totally agree with it! She was an amazing woman. I’ve also had some experiences Roland where I was lost and struggling and the thing that got me through it was an act of kindness from a stranger.
Those imprints people make – can positively affect a person more than the giver knows usually. Just a quick example – although it may be minor it had a big impact on my friend. A neighbor of mine in Las Vegas was going through a very rough time in her life physically with an illness and mentally with the stress from it. She came out to the pool where I was at and my other friend who I was speaking with said hello to the woman. He asked her in a very caring manner how she was doing and she said “not so good.” He took her hand and helped her into the pool and chatted for a little while. I saw the whole thing and although it sounds like nothing, his small act of kindness, showing that he actually cared meant so much to her. Later that day she told me about how he really made her day. I spoke with him later as well, as he was a good friend – and he was totally unaware of that until I told him. After telling him he was very inspired and happy that it meant so much and that never ending cycle kept on going. I think people need support -even if it comes from a stranger or neighbor.
Trip Peterson
05. Aug, 2009
An inspiring story Holly. Life is very short and I am amazed at where you came from and where you are at now. There have been lots of changes for you and many drastic. Thank you for being so real and open with sharing your stories on here. I enjoy them a lot.
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Thanks Trip and I enjoy writing and sharing these stories. Life has changed a lot and thank you for the comment!
Nellie
05. Aug, 2009
Hi Holly,
This week I’ve been feeling down and wondering about—
is there really a success for me in working online?
This morning during my devotional I reread this favorite
Bible verse of mine:
“I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go;
I will guide you with my eye.” Psalm 32:8
I am amazed what God has for me when I opened my
email this morning, the first line says:
“How Working Online Has Drastically Transformed Me.”
Your post has inspired me today, and has reminded me
to be thankful for every blessing: BIG and small —
that I receive daily. . . It’s good to be reminded.
Thank you for sharing this another inspiring story.
Blessings to you and Josh. . .
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Nellie – Thank you for the inspiring comment. I am happy I wrote this last night and posted it. It’s nice to hear from you and thank you for sharing that quote from the Bible.
Sometimes trusting in something you cannot see – and moving forward in faith – can also change your life. You’ve already taken the first steps with your online business – just don’t give up. Thanks Nellie. 
Katy Berezny
05. Aug, 2009
Hi Holly,
I never comment on any of the blogs that you write, yet I have read many of them. You are a blessing and inspiration to many people. This post is very admirable and I just wanted to take this time to thank you for serving our country.
I don’t agree with using Clickbank as a source of income, simply because I can’t promote something I know nothing about. I did purchase your book a couple years ago, but I no longer have it nor did I read it all the way through. Now that I have my life back on track, I want to purchase the updated version, because I believe that you have a lot to share. I will do that in the near future.
Your son is adorable and I pray for the best for you both. May you continue to inspire and bless all you come in contact with.
Love and Peace,
Katy Berezny (aka Viktorya Hale)
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Thank you Katy. I am happy you decided to leave a comment this time!
I am glad you’re getting into online marketing now and if you need some support you can also join our forum here: http://honestworkfromhomesuccess.com. I wish you the best and hope you keep in touch!
Roland Aichinger
05. Aug, 2009
Yes Holly, that´s absolutely true that Mother Teresa was an amazing woman!
She had so much love to give to the people in this world, and was always there to help.
You´re right: It does not really matter, if you are a stranger or a good friend to someone, if you can give this person the feeling that you really care about him / her.
If you just lend someone your ear and listen to his problems, his concerns or whatever affects him, will leave a greater mark on this person than anything else.
The5sisters
05. Aug, 2009
Oh,to be young again and see the world in all it has to offer whether the good,the bad or the ugly.
When you were so young ,not long ago, where did you find the courage to be in the Armed Forces,then as a contractor in Iraq and on your own as a beautiful young woman in Thailand/Burma ?
True,at that age I was on my own in unfamiliar ares of Canada and seeing the good as well as the bad.I was never healthy enough to be accepted into any of the Armed Forces branches.Many strangers and also friends have done little things to help me or at least make my day, and in return I have always tried to ‘pay it forward’ with a small act of kindness or simply the right words of encouragement or advice.
We,in North America and Europe takes so many things for granted but these things are pale in comparison to what people in other parts of the world consider luxuries:clean water,electricity,shelter,food,a means of a meager income.
Here we are deciding on variety of meals to cars and how to make a fortune on the internet..
There is nothing wrong with that as such but hopefully those of us who do become wealthy show and receive the grace of God in sharing with those less fortunate in other parts of the world.
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
You are so right.
I agree – and I also want to use any means that I have to help others along the way during my time here. You asked about my courage to travel and be in the Army – I think it was natural to me and I had no child to care for at the time, so I understood that if anything happened, I was accountable to myself. My life was in God’s hands.
There was a woman I worked with in Iraq who I feel had such courage and I cannot even comprehend how she worked there. The same goes for the service members who had families at home. They made the choice to work there and leave their young children behind – in hoping to help be a part of something bigger, and change some lives – including their own. Those people were really courageous. I’m grateful for all my experiences – and happy I was able to do all of that before having my son. I got the danger bug out of my system for good.
Still love adventure and travel, but don’t need the danger with it.
The5sisters
05. Aug, 2009
Glad to hear you got rid of the danger bug;we all would hate to lose you.
Anna
05. Aug, 2009
You have some amazing photos there Holly. Award winning, some of them, I mean it. I could see them on a magazine cover. And very, very touching.
Almost makes me want to hop over and pick up a bunch of kids.
I remember stream baths … for 6 weeks. Cold mountain water, melted snow. It was probably warmer where you were.
Irish Tom
05. Aug, 2009
Well Holly
You done it again…inspired us all with your stories and personal input. So very refreshing.
The photos are remarkable and I agree with Anna, you really ought try and get some submitted to a few magazines. I think National Geographic for one and I know they would be in great demand from many others.
Being on your site now for several months, I thought I had gotton to know all about you and then you throw a curve ball and come up with something new…I love it.
When I lived in Ireland working as a Sales and Contracts Manager with a Specialist Contractor who specialized in Historic Building Stabilization, I had the opportunity to travel both throughout the UK and Europe with my job and seen how “the other half live”.Kids have a lot of challenges in the poorer countries and I found even a little bit of help and caring meant so much. I used to do a collection amongst our contractors to raise funds to help the kids. Was not a big amount to us but a fortune to the kids and their families. We do take so much for granted yet a little is greatly appreciated by these kids.
Over the past 40 plus years, I have unconsciously done good deeds without any thought of reward..it was just my nature. It used to shock me when these deeds would come back to me maybe many years down the track. An old saying we had was “what goes around, comes around” I remember in about 1972 I “loaned” a local priest, who was a missionary, 100 British Pounds and never thought anything about it until about 8 years later when he died and I was at his funeral. In fact I had forgotten all about it. After the sermon his sister called me aside and said “Father Dan left a little package for you at the house”. I called the following day and when I opened the package it was an old (1922) solid gold Waltham pocket watch which I remember seeing him wearing and a very nice Thank You note. I said there is no way I could accept this, but his sister insisted and said the family knew about it and they also wanted me to have it. They also thanked me for helping Father Dan out 8 years ago and shared with me that my act was a life saver to one of his parishioners. I felt very humbled and accepted the gift which I still have today. I have no idea what it is worth but as I don’t intend to sell it, it doesn’t matter. It will probably go to my Grandaughter when she reaches 18, with the story behind it.
By the way Bill, I think I pip you to the post for age (65), and I have just returned from Wa after spending a week with our three Grandkids, and a set of twins on the way around October. I really enjoyed the experience, even the “baby sitting”. We played games, went walking and generally had a great time (except for the triple digets!)
Well Holly, you have had a great response to this article and I can’t wait to see what you pull out of the bag next!!
God Bless You
Tom
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Tom thanks for your awesome reply and story to go along with it. What an incredible thing that happened in your situation with Father Dan. I love hearing that! I also think it’s funny you said I threw a curve ball – trust me there are many more odd stories I just haven’t shared as I am not sure if I should post them at times – since this is supposed to be about Internet Marketing.
But today at my brother’s home in Wisconsin (where I am still at, after visiting for a whole month) – I found some of my old belongings. I found notebook after notebook from the ages of 16 until 22. I now realize I was always meant to be a writer – because all I did to cope with things was write in journals. I wrote and wrote and wrote in such detail about everything that I experienced. One trip was when I was 17 and I backpacked around S. E. Asia and I had no recollection of much of it until reading that journal today.
Anyway, besides that, I am so happy you had a nice time with your grandkids. I’m spending time with my nieces while at my brother’s house and it is insane here! Not in a bad way – but my brother has triplets (two years old now) and a four year old girl as well. And twins on the way??? Wow congratulations to the family! I am sure they love the time they have with you!
Thank you so much for sharing that awesome story Tom.
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Also thank you Anna and Tom about the photos. I have many, many more of my times there..I just didn’t post them all. If anyone knows where I should submit any to – let me know. I’m open to it! It would be amazing…
Bill Vlasak
05. Aug, 2009
There are hundreds of sites looking for such great photographs ,including Flicker.Google lists them all because of such high demand for many reasons and uses.
However, since you have pictures of places and peoples not often seen ,take Irish Tom’s heartfelt advice and contact National Geographic.Everyone who follows you will undoubtedly recommend your photographic skills to them if they want extra references [which they do if they don't know you; they receive thousands of requests for publishing,weekly}
Yours are that good for 99.99% of them,not counting those where the tops of heads are missing in the cheese head state.
And Tom:I'm 62 but have more grandkids who [ respectfully] call me Grumpy..Also finally got my own blog mostly repaired but had to also change theme properties..
Holly
05. Aug, 2009
Thanks for the advice Bill. I will do this and keep you guys posted!
Anna
06. Aug, 2009
Hi Holly,
just want to add my appreciation too
I’m one of those regular readers but infrequent commenters, but continue to really enjoy your blog posts. This one really hits a nerve for me, and I can’t agree with it more. It is OUR life to live – you’re right, I so agree. I personally am doing my best to start my life again with my 2 children, coming out of an extremely damaging relationship, and it is actually through interaction with people on the internet like yourself and others that I have been really helped to come through the past couple of years. I don’t know if anybody else can relate, but my life has come to such low low if you know what I mean, that the only place left to go is up. And it is just so so so relieving to know that I can connect to a community of people that are outside of my circumstances, who will take me for who I really am, not what I look like or where I live..
Anyway, I just want to say a proper thank you once again, and that I appreciate this blog so much. No matter what you do, I hope you always have a source of inspiration to draw on, and know that if you ever come to Perth Australia, I would be delighted to show you around
.. Otherwise, I might just have to fulfill a big dream of mine and just come to the States sometime..
All the best ..
Anna.
Holly
06. Aug, 2009
Dear Anna – thank you for commenting here today. It sounds like you’re going through a tough time now – but you seem to have the best attitude to make it through. I am also grateful, like you said, to have this community to connect with and support each other. We also have a great community at the forum – http://honestworkfromhomesuccess.com that you may want to join if you haven’t yet. And Thank YOU for the offer if and when I visit Australia – I appreciate it so much and plan on it in the future ok! Let’s keep in touch.
Dave
06. Aug, 2009
I so love reading The Adventures of Holly Mann…
My dog was wondering why I was sniffling, as I read through this story and comments. Some marvelous sharing here…and YES, it IS pertinent to IM.
Making a bunch O money online just means there’s more resources to help other folks!
In my spare time, I often work with, mostly, young men who are recovering from alcoholism and addiction. The kindness and generosity of strangers saved my life a couple decades ago… and I’ll scarecely be able to pay it back in my lifetime.
What is a life worth? More than I often times know, so I will try to payback to others for so long as I live… and hope I can make a dent in the debt of gratitude that I have been so blessed with.
I think the biggest challenge for a lot of folks in western culture (and alkies and addicts in particular), is we tend towards self involvement. Always monitoring how WE feel, instead of being considerate of those around us.
It leads to all kinds of trouble in our perception, and most of the problems folks have. I think if I am spending much time feeling self pity over something, what’s REALLY going on is I’m just not paying attention.
We are surrounded every day by folks who are going through profound difficulties and pain, and doing so with dignity, grace and an eye towards being kind to their fellow travelers.
Yes, our difficulties, especially the “big deals”, are real, and I’m not trying to minimize them. But if we lose perspective… it becomes very difficult to find a clear way in life…and we stumble and fall and get bruised, often times till we just have to quit fighting life and realize we’re manufacturing gobs of trouble for ourselves and others
It isn’t clear much of the time… but I believe and I feel, that there is an underlying power, love and beauty that I can have regular glimpses of… IF I make the effort to seek for it and I have an open mind and open heart. (I name it God, but He/She/It isn’t attached to being called anything)
I see that easily in you Holly, and I’m grateful to have crossed paths with you.
You are such a great example to others with your spirit, kindness and open heart. Sure, there are risks in having such an open heart as you do… but living in such a way lights the way for your fellow travelers.
I know you are a pretty modest woman. But I would like to notice to you that you are genuinely a beautiful and powerful example of the best that folks can be, and you really help others by just being yourself. What a cool blessing to the rest of us.
Now I’m going to go see about these watering eyes.
BTW… those pics are BEAUTIFUL… and if you need some danger, just go base jump or skydive. (Why would it not surprise me if you had already done that?)
Heartfelt peace and love to you and Josh
Dave in Lawrence, KS
“Peace, is the perfume of God’s presence”
Holly
06. Aug, 2009
Dave – thank you. Your words are touching – and when you said you want to try to spend the rest of your life paying it forward or helping others – that is just awesome!
I think what you said about people being really self-involved is true too…and I think people who are really self-involved are usually not such happy campers. I think (just my opinion) that people are truly happy when they are helping others or have done something to positively impact someone. Not everyone enjoys it – but someday when that person needs help and there is someone – a stranger to be there – then their outlook may change for the better. It is like that movie “Pay it Forward” and the kindness does continue.
Thank you so much Dave for your kind words.
Oh, and before I forget – I have not done any base jumping and don’t plan to! Someday I wouldn’t mind doing one single tandem jump – but that would be it if I ever did that. I’d rather get a pilot’s license than jumping out of the plane! When I was 14 my mom was really into skydiving and I was always so worried about her safety in doing that. I watched her jump about 30 times. Have you done that?
Dave in Lawrence, KS
06. Aug, 2009
“I think what you said about people being really self-involved is true too…and I think people who are really self-involved are usually not such happy campers.”
You have such a kind way of saying things… I laughed really hard when I read that line, imagining you saying it. Yep… it’s true.
I actually have NOT done any jumps…
I’m reminded of a scene in an old Clint Eastwood movie, as he’s speaking to the last paratrooper at the ramp, who has frozen up in fear. Somthing like:
“It’s alright son… jumping out of a perfectly good airplane is a completely un-natural act”… then he gives him a shove.
Holly… you ARE a writer… you’re just so very modest and probably blush when you get a lot of accolades.
Your latest edition of Honest Riches is the best internet marketing “e-book” out in the marketplace today. Very very very well written… the formatting is brilliant too… it makes it SO much easier to read, regardless of the platform.
You put a lot into it…and it really shines. So, yes… my vote is you ARE A WRITER… and a darn GOOD one!
I’m behind on e-mail, and thus your posts, so I’m not sure if you are still in Wisconsin… folks are SO friendly in Wisconsin… it’s a marvelous state. I visited there regularly when I lived in Chicago.
The winters can be a little cold, but their WINTER for gosh sakes… and a good snowstorm is a marvelous display of beauty in an city environment.
Are you still in Cheeseville, USA? (Actually, also well known for some good breweries.
I think you would love Wisconsin…and Josh would love to build a snowman, I’m sure.
BTW… you might like this… go to Google and type in open search: Jim white, 10 miles to go youtube
should be the top result… he’s zany and brilliant, and that song is fun and has GREAT lyrics: “The Power of Love will deliver you there…”
Well… I have officially taken this WAY off topic… sorry
peace and love to you and Josh
Dave
carlos
06. Aug, 2009
What can i said!!!.
You have made me think like no one has in a long time.
Has been 5 years (weird coincidence) since i left my country and came to the US. Thinks for me haven’t been so well. But i promise my self that i will get back in my feet again.
Holly you don’t know how much this post means to me now. It’s like a wake up call for me.
I have already bought your book, but to be honest i haven’t have the time to finish it. (1st assignment for me right away).
I know that honest riches it’s my door for a fresh start, i just hope to learn as much as i can from you since all i read from you all over the net is how wonderful helpful and inspiring person you are.
Thanks for all your time and support hope we can begin to be more in touch here and on your forum. (because i do know i am going to need help and if it is from some one like you, what else i can ask for!!!).
God Bless you!!!
Holly
06. Aug, 2009
Thank you Carlos for your inspiring words. I am so happy you have benefited from the post. What country are you from? I really hope you join the forum too – it is such a great support system and group of people. Hope to keep in touch – and take care!
Holly
06. Aug, 2009
Thank you guys for the advice about the photos – I have created a profile at the National Geographic site here: http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/myshot/gallery/188106 and uploaded some of my photos. I have more to add – and one with the child monk I submitted to a contest there that has the weekly winners photos published in the magazine.
Dave
06. Aug, 2009
You have a good eye Ms. H. Thailand and it’s people look incredibly beautiful through your lens…
Carlos
07. Aug, 2009
I am from Ecuador. Have you ear about the Galapagos Island? it’s a paradise.
Last months it was selected as one of the finalist for “the new 7 wonders of nature of the world.” http://www.vote7.com/n7w/nature/finalists/galapagos
Once again thanks for your time and support.
As you said i hope to be from now on in contact with you in the forum.
Keep up the good work Girl, the world need more people like you Holly!!!
Thanks.
Dan Mitchell
07. Aug, 2009
Love Pai! I’ve been about 5 times for long weekends over the last 2 years….can’t wait to go back!
Holly
07. Aug, 2009
Really? That’s great Dan. I know it’s changed so much over the years. Glad you liked it there. The last time I went was four years ago and my friend who lived there was so upset that a 7-11 was built in the town – he thought they should keep it a small town and keep away from such changes.
Anna
07. Aug, 2009
Thx Holly.. Will def keep in touch, and again thanks for the blog and your honesty..
Normal Joe
07. Aug, 2009
I always love hearing your stories Holly, they are very motivational and interesting! lol.
5 years can definitely change a lot! Wow…when I think 5 years ago, a lot has changed for me as well
thanks for sharing.
Cary Bergeron
07. Aug, 2009
Just found your site and the more I read it the more I like it.
Great story and I appreciate you sharing with us. Never been to Thailand but would love to visit someday.
Davin-The Viral Sanctuary
07. Aug, 2009
Holly, thank you so much for this thread. Some of these pictures included here are absolutely amazing. It’s so very nice to see you with a full smile on your face Holly.
It really lets your spirit flow…very touching….very sincere.
Thanx Holly, for everything. it’s the things like this that have always made me want to push on..
Thanx Holly…and all the best..always…
Davin
Irish Tom
07. Aug, 2009
Hi Again Holly
Congratulations on setting up your photos on the National Geographic web site..they look stunning..and I see a number have received 5 * already. With your writing talents and your photography, I look forward to your next adventure to share with us. I love photography and writing also and you have motivated me to get my book finished and I have started to sort out my photos. I will share some with you guys.
Anna..keep your chin up..I can emphasise with you. I come through a messy divorce almost 10 years ago. There was no one else in our lives but we just fell out of love and I had to make a decision to do the Irish Thing and stay at home putting on a show for friends and become a miserable old man or start a new life. I met my now wife on a trip I made to Az in late 1999 and 6 months later she come to Ireland where we got married. Then we decided to return to CA in Dec 2004 where we now live.We are very happy together. Back then, I never thought I would ever meet anyone else and certainly was not looking. As it happens my wife Cheryl had just come through a difficult marraige and divorce and also was not looking for another relationship. We ended up together against all the odds, so second chances do happen. You just never know what is waiting around the next corner. Never give up and you are lucky to have your children with you. I still have problems there but hope to resolve them later this year.
I have looked at your web sites and you are a very talented lady. Never be afraid to share that talent as Holly has done with us numerous times. God bless you.
Thanks again Holly and the best of luck with whatever you do.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Tom
Anna
08. Aug, 2009
Hi Tom,
thanks very much for the encouragement.. It has been such a difficult year for me, and I appreciate your comments so much. I think you may have another Anna’s websites confused for mine though – I’m still very much at the construction stage myself.. Hopefully not for long, and I’ll keep my eyes open for my second chance
thanks again, and see you in the forum sometime I hope, Anna.
Irish Tom
09. Aug, 2009
Hi Anna
Sorry, I didn’t realize we had a second Anna, but my words stand.
Good luck with what you are doing and as I am also setting up some new websites and writing an eBook, I guess we are running side by side. I am excited about getting everything together over the next coming weeks.
I love the forum and you will have plenty of help over there.
Chin up and see you on the other side..we can ALL be successful.
And Holly, thank you for giving us all the opportunity to be able to support one another.
Cheers
Tom
Deneil Merritt
09. Aug, 2009
This story is truly inspiring. Makes me think about where I want to be in 5 years.
Holly
09. Aug, 2009
Thanks Deneil – it’s incredible how many turns life can take in even one year.
Flashback Monday - Discount Coupon Codes, Funny Picutes, And New Video Series
10. Aug, 2009
[...] Personal Development Why I Am Not Such A Social Person (Bloggers can make it through anything, just read the 2 articles below) I’m Alive! It’s Good To Be Back, But It Will Take Some Time… How Working Online Has Drastically Transformed Me. [...]
Norman Freeman
11. Aug, 2009
Love your story, Holly. Really.
And here’s my greatest respect for being a single mom chosing your life’s path and making it a reality.
What completely changed my life was an unexpected baby that did not fit “my plan” i had back then.
She (the little girl) turned out to become the best motivator to really focus on getting where i always wanted to be – and constantly reminding me of what life (&marketing!) really is about – people, emotions, positive intention and a good conscience.
The unexpected is what we should welcome and never be afraid of – that’s what i learned.
Have a great day!
Holly
11. Aug, 2009
Hi Norman and thank you for your comment! That is awesome that your little surprise is what so drastically motivated you to change your life. My son Josh was also a surprise for me and the main motivator that drove me to make a major life change. I wanted him to have a future and a great life – full of experiences and adventures. You are right Norman – it is about people and I believe helping others. Thanks for such a nice comment!
Walter
12. Aug, 2009
We have our choices in life. Success is one of them. But most people stay mired in their self-perceived limitations.
You truly blessed to have discovered that important wisdom in your life.
Jacinta Dean
18. Aug, 2009
Hi Holly,
I would just like to say you are an inspiration!!
I have been following you for nearly 2 years now but haven’t really commented much. I bought your Honest Riches 2 way back in 2007 just when I had had my baby girl only a month previous.
Having my baby inspired me to do more, having come from a very troubled back ground. I wanted my daughter to be proud of me.
I came across your book and it was the start of my new beginning to give my child a future. Your story is honest and raw and that is what makes you appealing.
keep being the inspiration you are and know that you inspire thousands.
Kind Regards
Jacinta
Holly
18. Aug, 2009
Thanks Jacinta for such a nice comment. I completely understand you when you say your baby inspired you to do more – same here! My son was my inspiration and still is. Jacinta, if you want the updated Honest Riches – which has so much more than the 07 one, please send me an email and i’ll send it to you. Thanks again and take care!
Faey
26. Sep, 2009
Thanks for sharing your story with us Holly. As a matter of fact, I am doing the very exact same thing. I left my 9-5 job and has been living her in the Philippines for almost a year. All my family are back in the US. I missed them a lot, but I know I had to make this journey for myself. So I totally can relate with your Thailand experience.
Already, I feel so different and so much more grateful and appreciative of all the little things in life. And gosh…do I realize how fortunate we are as American. The abundant resources and the opportunities.
Holly
26. Sep, 2009
Hi Faey – thank you for sharing your story too. That’s amazing – and how is everything in the Philippines? It sounds exciting what you’re doing – very adventurous – and I love that! I hope you keep us updated on your life and journeys.
Shane Goldberg
16. Jul, 2010
Hey Holly, what an amazing incredible experience! I love Thailand too. Great photos!
Do you think you’d return to do that type of thing again? Looks like you had a really great experience.
Have a GREAT day and thanks for sharing.