Home and Family Lover

October Time To Focus On Protecting Children

2009-03-04T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Joe Hickman

No one wants to hurt a child. Yet each year since 1928 our nation's leaders have felt it's important to stress how we can unwittingly allow our children to be harmed in and around our own homes.

Children are vulnerable. Pound for pound, they breathe more air, drink more water and eat more food than adults. They play close to the ground and put their hands in their mouths, increasing their exposure to toxins in the environment.

Their small bodies are still developing, often making a child less able than adults to metabolize, detoxify and excrete toxins they consume from air pollution, drinking water, food, secondhand smoke, or peeling paint.

National Child Health Day, October 3

In 1928, President Calvin Coolidge established May 1 as Child Health Day. In 1959, Congress changed National Child Health Day to the first Monday in October, where it remains. The American Academy of Pediatrics established October as Child Health Month in 1992.

Sixteen federal agencies observe October as Children's Health Month.

In 1928, President Coolidge declared, "The protection and development of the health of the children of today are fundamental necessities to the future progress and welfare of the nation."

Focusing on children's health today is as important as ever, maybe more. Asthma is a growing threat to children. With new chemicals introduced into the environment each year, children face a widening array of environmental hazards that can have a significant impact on their health and well-being.

A Great Month to Learn

The Children's Health Month ( http://www.childrenshealth.gov/index.html ) website provides great ideas to help parents and teachers learn more about a variety of child health topics: childhood illness prevention, education and child care, limiting environmental hazards, reducing risky behaviors, and safety.

For October, you'll find a daily calendar of ideas to protect children, ranging from preventing mercury exposure at school to protecting children from secondhand smoke and mold. Other days will focus on the safe use of pesticides, how to prevent lead, radon and carbon monoxide poisoning, and how to help children breathe easier and reduce asthma attacks.

Walk and Bike to School Week

Children Health Month also includes International Walk and Bike to School Week October 3 - 7 ( http://www.walktoschool-usa.org/ ). Children walking and biking to school offers real benefits for both the children and the environment. The week enhances children's health, cuts down on auto carbon monoxide around schools, and with parents involved, helps to create safer routes for walking and cycling.

Everyone Can Help

Children's Health Month is a tool to impress on everyone health care professionals, teachers and parents the importance of protecting children's health. Maybe we can absorb enough helpful ideas to last year round.

Because, let's face it, children need our protection every day, every month.

Why not click on the Children's Health Month Calendar ( http://www.childrenshealth.gov/calendar.html ) and learn how to protect a child today? Or better yet, print out the calendar and check it all month long. Maybe give copies to friends.

After all, children are 100 percent of our future.

Memory Foam Mattress Buying Guide

2009-03-03T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by David Z

What is "Memory Foam"?

Memory Foam was created by the American Organization, NASA, during the 1970's. The invention was not used for space missions due to some reasons of the closed environment atmosphere. However, some companies like Tempur Pedic, saw that their could be a future in this foam for consumers.

Memory foam was engineered to spread pressure and release the pressure points from the weight of the person or thing. However there were some fundamental flaws in the initial memory foam concerning durability and therefore they began to research heavily on new methods to create this Memory Foam to have what we see today.

How Many Brands Are There?

By doing a simple search for memory foam mattress, you will come up with around 200,000 results. Most of them are trying to sell you on their products, which are a lot to choose from.

Through our basic research, we have seen that the average online price for a memory foam mattress is between $700-$3000 on average. The first factor, size, the second will depend on the name brand and warranties associated with the mattresses. Some offer free delivery, others offer free frames, pillows, etc.

Which Is Best For Me?

There is only one comment or discouragement that I have ever heard about buying a memory foam or tempur pedic mattress. That is that it gets very hot, the way your body is snuggled in the mattress and the material which is thickly condensed and not very open causes a pocket of warmth to create around you. So if you detest sleeping hot, either turn up the air conditioning unit or research a different system.

My first suggestions, buy a memory foam pillow and mattress. This will help you feel the difference in your current sleeping arrangement and it will provide you with an idea if the product is right for you. It really does provide support and comfort. If you sleep uncomfortably at night and need a new solution, try it. Most places like Tempur-Pedic offer warranties and 30 day refund periods if you are not satisfied.

My second suggestion, never listen to anyone online unless they are a certified physician. So consult your doctor and he will help you determine the best sleeping arrangement to help your ailing back pains.

Lastly, most memory foam systems are the same. The only differences are that certain firms find new designs or technologies to include with their product that set them apart. But never buy a mattress online without some type of warranty and 30 day refund policy, just to be on the safe side.

When shopping online, check other feedbacks or testimonials. People generally list reasons why their mattress would work best for them depending on their health and situation, you can certainly use their feedbacks as reference for your shopping decision.

For more memory foam mattress buying guides, please visit Memory Foam Mattress

Having a good night sleep is essential and helps you feel rested, energized and prepared. This article will provide you buying guides about memory foam mattress so you can make a good decision when looking for your next mattress.

For more memory foam mattress buying guides, please visit Memory Foam Mattress

Santas Workshop ~ Diary Of An Elf ~ Day 34

2009-03-03T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Ashlee Williams

Hi everyone!

We had a great day. Our bake sale was a real success. We made almost $2,000. Well, we actually only made $1,000 but Santa donated another $1,000. So we now have enough money to buy new decorations to decorate our entire town. The Christmas tree in our common will have a bright shining star now, when we get the new decorations. Probably will go shopping later this week! I can't wait!

Everyone liked the Gingerbread house that Crystal and I made. It turned out beautiful and everyone raved about it. We raffled it off to the highest bidder for $55.00.

Mrs. Claus bought all kinds of goodies at the bake sale. My favorite was the Peanut Butter cookies. We all ate so many snacks today that nobody was hungry at suppertime.

The best part of the bake sale was when Santa, Rudolph and Blitzen arrived with the sleigh. Santa let the children (even some grownups!) climb into the sleigh and have their pictures taken with him. You should of seen Rudolph, he is such a show-off, he loves to have his picture taken.

After the bake sale Mrs. Claus took a group of us girls shopping for Christmas decorations. We bought a lot of cool things. You should see the sparkling star we bought for the big tree on the common.

We didn't have time to buy all our decorations today so we are going shopping again on Saturday.

Well I better say goodnight. Mrs. Claus is calling us for our hot chocolate. Then we have to go to bed.

Talk to you tomorrow

Ashlee Williams writes a daily report from the North Pole, through a diary of an elf who works in the Toyshop. Why not visit http://santasworkshop.blog.com You'll find it interesting as all those problems arise while Santa is making all the toys.

Immigration Woes Part Four

2009-03-02T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Rick Parrott

The National Visa Center (NVC) had sent our paper work to the US Consulate in Ciudad Juarez in June 2005. Our appointment was in March 2006!

Why so long? Well is appears the US Consulate in Ciudad Juarez is the busiest consulate in the world and they are extremely back logged. Maybe they ought to hire more people.

Up to this point my Congressman and Senator had been a great help moving my paperwork along. When the paperwork arrived at the consulate they hit a brick wall.

It seems that our State Department doesn't answer to the US Congress any more. Or so it seems.

We waited, not so patiently, for our appointment time to come. Then suddenly we received a package informing us that our appointment was in 30 days.

It was obvious that the package they send out is a standard one, -because it was asking us for forms we had already submitted. So to be safe we filled out all of the forms and took them with us to the appointment.

Before we went to our appointment my wife had to have a physical. This consisted of a blood test and vaccinations. All of which cost an additional fee. In total, it was about $250.00 more.

There are only two approved places you can take your physical. Luckily the one we went to was quick. It took us about an hour. We arrived there as early as possible. The other clinic was taking between three and four hours.

Included in the information packet is a warning to be careful around the clinics because there have been many robberies and assaults. Isn't the concern of your government touching, they do not however provide any security.

The day of our appointment we arrived early. The information packet said it didn't matter when you arrived and they were right. My wife didn't have her interview until almost 4:00 pm.

Meanwhile we had to stand in the rain on the street, because the sponsor wasn't allowed to accompany the applicant.

I decided to turn the wait into a research opportunity. I talked too many of the people waiting, asking about their story.

Many of them have been waiting as long as or longer than we had. Some of them had made multiple trips to the consulate. Many had the services of a lawyer, which really didn't seem to do them much good.

Here a partial list of the wisdom I gleaned for my observations:

- Don't talk to or trust the vendors offering to assist you with your paperwork! These establishments exist solely to separate money from confused and often desperate people.

- Get a hotel close to the consulate, they should cost between $40.00 and $60.00 dollars. There are also restaurants close by.

- Do not get to the consulate too early, because there isn't any security until just before they open.

- Ciudad Juarez is on Mountain Time so adjust your watch, if necessary.

- As is true in most third world nations, the people see Americans as potential targets to be fleeced. Watch out for pick pockets and con artists.

- If the price of the VISA application has gone up you will have to pay the difference. For us it was about $40.00 more.

- If you need a waiver, expect to wait an additional amount of time.

-- I know of one case where the family waited for three weeks in Ciudad Juarez then was told they would have to wait 10 years before the wife could come to the US.

-- In another case the consulate wouldn't grant the waiver unless the wife of the sponsor turned in her brother, who was wanted on warrants. Why that should be a condition for entry into the US is beyond me.

There were many stories like this among the people waiting. The biggest problem is the complete lack of information available. It almost seems like the consulate staff wants you to be in the dark. This process could be made much more user friendly.

Currently the process goes through the Immigration and Naturalization Service, then to the National Visa Center and finally to the US Consulate.

To speed up the system the Immigration and Naturalization Service could adopt a program like the National Visa Center has so you can check and verify the status of your paperwork.

The National Visa Center should send all of the required paperwork in one mailing. They could include a fee bill for the entire amount with the requirement that all fees must be paid for the paperwork to be processes. This action alone would have saved us over five months of waiting.

Finally, the State Department must do something about the processing times in their consulates. Especially the consulate in Ciudad Juarez, as it is the system puts an artificial cap on immigration. There are people who have been waiting for their appointments for over ten years!

It's no wonder so many enter this country illegally! If congress really wanted to get a handle on the immigration problem they would do two simple things.

1. Make it a felony to knowingly employ undocumented aliens and enforce the law!

2. Streamline the process to allow a reasonable work visa process.

If I have learned anything in this process it is to be persistent. When dealing with the US Government you must continuously engage them in discussion. If your paperwork isn't in the place it needs to be, question them as to why.

Don't be afraid to contact your political representatives. That's what they are there for, even though some seem to forget.

Good luck and I hope your quest goes smoother than ours.

Secure Publications, is a San Antonio Texas publishing company specializing in "How To" books and special reports designed to enhance our quality of life.

Visit our site to get an immigration assistance kit designed to smooth your imigration journey

http://www.securepublications.com/immigration

Or contact Rick Parrott via email at rickparrott@sasecure.net

Helpful Tips When Burying Or Cremating The Remains Of Family Member

2009-03-01T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Harriet Goodrich

When an individual passes on, there are many decisions that must be made. One important decision concerns the remains. There are many different options for families of individuals who have died. The two most common ways to handle the remains of a loved one is to purchase a casket and bury them or have their remains cremated.

Generally the most traditional choice is a standard burial in a casket. Many families choose this option because they are able to visit a gravestone and know that their loved one is there. A standard burial is often preferred because the individual is being left alone and is at peace.

Cremation is another choice that many families make. Cremation is when the remains of a deceased individual is converted into ashes. This is a fairly common practice on individuals who may have been severely injured or disfigured in an accident or do not have any family members around to make decisions.

The decision to cremate a loved one is often difficult, but there is also an option that is a combination of the two. Once remains are cremated, there are placed in a urn. A urn is a container that stores the remains. Urns can come in various different styles, decorations, and sizes. There is a urn that is known as a burial urn. A burial urn is a specific urn meant for being buried underground, like traditional caskets. A burial urn is generally made out of specific material that will hold well underground.

Generally when compared to a casket, a urn is considerably cheaper. If a burial urn is used and the individual is buried, you can still have a traditional headstone. There are no set limitations or rules on cremating and burying an individual.

In addition to a burial urn there are other burial options or accessories for a cremation burial. Many funeral homes or casket companies sell a special burial urn vault. The materials used, sizes, and styles will depend on where you plan on purchasing a burial urn vault. These vaults come in different sizes, but they are typically just big enough to hold a standard urn. These burial urn vaults are a protective way for urns to be buried underground. Just like caskets, burial urn vaults are typically decorated with various religious designs or they can even be customized for a family.

The decision to bury a family member is a touch decision to make. There are many tips and resources available for assistance with making this difficult decision. Cremation is a common practice used all around the world. The majority of religions accept and believe in cremation; therefore, it will generally not upset an individualís belief system. Handing the remains of a deceased family member is often a family decision. If the family cannot agree on a specific procedure, a burial urn may be a great idea. A burial urn allows remains to be cremated and buried all at the same time, generally pleasing all remaining family members.

http://www.funeralmarket.com/cas_history.php = Harriet Goodrich is a writer for Funeral Market where you can find burial urns and funeral caskets of high quality at discount prices.

Bedwetting Diapers Disposable Products For Older Bedwetters

2009-03-01T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Peter Crump

Bedwetting diapers are not just for infants and babies. They come in sizes all the way up to adult so that any one with a bed wetting problem can feel secure that he/she will not wake up to wet sheets in the morning. Along with ensuring you or your child a dry night, wearing diapers at night means you also have less mess to clean up. These diapers are disposable, so they won't add to your mounds of laundry. Actually, disposable bedwetting diapers will cut down on the amount of laundry that you have to do because you will no longer have to wash bedclothes each day.

Even with having bedwetting diapers for your child, you still have to pursue other methods for treating the problem of bed wetting. These diapers can give the child or adult a false sense of relief and not really do anything to help the problem at all. If there is a medical reason for the bedwetting, you know that using bed wetting diapers will probably be only a temporary measure. If there is no medical reason, then you need to combine using an adult bed wetting diaper each night with a method of behavior modification such as using an enuresis alarm to wake the wearer at the first sign of moisture.

There are bedwetting diapers that look just like underpants. This makes it much easier for your child to sleep at a friend's house without anyone knowing about the bedwetting. These diapers have an absorbent liner that soaks up the urine and does not let it seep through to the pyjamas or the bedclothes. However, if the child is in bed for a long time, there is the possibility that some of the urine will seep out through the legs of the diapers causing an accident. The top layer of plastic on a bedwetting diaper helps to keep the moisture away from the skin.

You do have to be aware of the cost involved in using larger size disposable bedwetting diapers. This is why you do need to look for treatments that will not only reduce the number of bedwetting episodes, but will help cure the problem. There are child and adult bed wetting diapers that you can get that are reusable. This type of diaper is a cheaper alternative to the disposable bed wetting diaper. It also comes like a pair of underpants or a liner that fits on the underpants. With these adult bedwetting diapers, the person still feels wet, but the wetness does not seep through to the clothing. The wetness helps to wake the adult up so he/she can go to the bathroom.

You do have to choose the best bedwetting diapers for your child. Look at the liners, diapers and absorbent underpants to determine which one would best meet the needs of the child or adult. Liners are strips of absorbent material that have a sticky side that adheres to the underpants, thus keeping them in place. They are not noticeable and will not irritate the skin in the same way as some bedwetting diapers will.

Find out more about Bedwetting, visit Peter's Website Bedwetting Answers and find out about Bedwetting Diapers and more, including Adult Bedwetting and Bedwetting Alarms

3 Reasons Why You Should Nap In A Hammock Not On A Couch

2009-02-28T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Pankaj Andy

Have you ever marveled how life would be when the mornings do not turn to nights, your stars remain at a fixed position and the mountains and valleys run without twists and turns? It is droning to be part of such a world and drooping to lead this kind of life. So when we admire flexibility and relish the curves and curvatures in life, how can we fritter away the most delightful moments i.e. the time we relax and fantasize by squatting or lying on a stiff and a so called stubborn sofa or a couch? Let us delve into three good reasons to nap in a hammock and not on a couch

· The best place to stretch and take a nap is in the open, in the lap of nature on a hammock. All the worries and melancholy take flight when the gushing winds from the East and West embrace you. A small nap can be an experience of a paradise when you swing in your hammock and the tender breeze cuddles you. Only a hammock can give you this feel, the charisma, the ecstasy of cloud nine.

Hammocks provide you with a harmonious sleep at any and every place. All one requires are any two poles or trees available free of cost to tie the hammock. Couches are immobile. You have to employ tremendous energy and labor to take your couch out to get baked in the sun on a bright winter morning. Not just this but many a times on a couch you wake up with a stiff and aching back that leads you cursing your nap the entire day. Hammocks are supple. It provides you just the right amount of space to adjust yourself. A hammock cocoons you making your nap all the more unflustered and carefree. Hey you can even enjoy a drink unwinding yourself in a hammock!

· Apart from this blissful experience, a nap on hammock is preferred to one on a couch because of other factors too. A hammock is inexpensive especially in contrast to a couch. You need to scrutinize your budget from top to bottom in order to have a sufficiently large and gracious couch. Couches are perhaps the best to embellish your drawing rooms and lobbies. But they remain less inviting to put your feet up. Often the upholstery used is designed to parade more of grandeur and elegance. In relation to simple unbreakable or resilient hammocks couches are more brittle, magnificent and less comfortable.

· Hammocks are not just a relished sleeping bed of kids but also of the young and the old. Hammocks can largely be sighted near the beaches, picnic spots, in the garden of a house and at other areas where nature has spread its splendor without wavering. If you are at a beach, wet and weary fervent to take a break and a short nap, a hammock is the first and the best idea. Your wet body can get soaked in the sun leaving the hammock as it is. Thence in comparison to pricey couches, hammocks are more user-friendly. They can be washed, wrapped, tied and unwrapped anywhere.

So what suits you and your body the best- the big 'Ouch on a Couch' or the joyful 'Yippee on a Hammock'?

Pankaj andy writes hammock topics. Learn more at http://www.usa-hammocks.com.

Creative Approaches To Family Gatherings

2009-02-27T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Jodie Foster

Do you find yourself dreading family gatherings? Is the family situation trying and very draining on your emotional state?

Staying centered when others around us are spinning in excitement, anticipation or agitation is never easy. It is challenging to hold our own position at times. The energy encountered in your family can be overwhelming. When you have to be at a family gathering, remember to take a few simple steps before getting out of your car:

1. Take three deep breaths.

2. Pull in your energetic field closer to your body (this contains your energy so it is not so porous and expanded- keeping you from picking up other's energies). You can also do this by crossing your arms over your heart, hugging yourself tightly and feeling very contained.

3. Focus your energy on your feet- feeling how rooted you are to the earth.

4. Clear your mind and focus on the task at hand, knowing you are centered within yourself and nothing can truly harm you or hurt you.

These few simple methods will help you have a better experience. They seem like very simple concepts, but each has a specific purpose and work together to bring you into a state of conscious awareness. This awareness is the most powerful tool we possess. If you have conscious awareness you are remaining empowered in your personal space. This can assist you in holding your own energy rather than being drained by the swirling energy around you.

It's easy to get caught up in family tension, experiencing undue demands on yourself and the guilt that comes with living according to old feelings of expectation and duty. Simply because something has been unchanged for years, does it mean it is the only way it can be done? Think about the ramifications of some of these expectations that have been passed down through the family for generations.

Do the family expectations make you uncomfortable? Do you visit members of the family out of duty rather than out of excitement and joy? Are you weighed down by the expectations placed upon you? Is there a sense of loyalty that is defining your every move? What would happen if you created a new way of responding? Would it be more fulfilling to you personally? Would you feel guilt? Would it bring you joy? Would it be exciting? Would it be too uncomfortable?

Only you would know inside yourself what your response would be.

Is it worth finding out? Step out on your own and do things differently the next time you are at a family gathering. Why not take the risk to change? Change is the healthiest thing we can ever do for ourselves. Being caught in a routine is stifling and can cause our energies to stagnate.

Samsara is a Sanskrit word that means to me, "the only thing that never changes, is the fact that everything changes." Samsara is about flow. Energy in flowing motion is free and openly being expressed. Energy held in expectation and tradition can be stagnant and unmoving.

Which do you prefer? Which do you choose? Take the leap and make a change! And most of all, remember it's about your wellbeing. Do what brings you joy. Allow that to be the guiding force within you.

Jodie Foster is an Intuitive Counselor who assists clients to create extraordinary transformations in their daily lives. Her work is uplifting, empowering and success-oriented. You can visit Jodie's website at http://www.illuminationsnetwork.com for further information and to schedule a private intuitive session. You can also look for weekly updates to her blog at: http://intuitiveinnovations.blogspot.com.

Publisher's Guidelines: You may freely publish this article online, in email newsletters, or in print so long as the resource box and byline are in tact. Author would appreciate a notification, but that is optional

Adjustable Beds The Breakthrough Discovery For A Sensational Sleep

2009-02-26T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Daryl Plaza

If you just started looking at adjustable beds, then this type of bed, you'll be surprised at the benefits that you will receive. Electric adjustable beds are a blessing for a lot of people. If you have medical needs like osteoarthritis, asthma, spinal stenosis, varicose veins, or have neck or back pain, these adjustable lift beds will show you they way. Quality sleeping is an every-evolving path, with manufacturers and technology constantly enhancing existing designs or creating a completely new one. Adjustable beds come in two styles, standard and heavy duty. The sizes will depend on your needs (twin, Queen, King and full size).

These beds don't use normal mattresses, you will need an adjustable bed mattress, which is made using latex foam, air, and coil springs. These beds evenly distribute your body weight to help relieve pressure on the neck and your legs. It also helps offset acid reflux and heartburn at night while you sleep. Make sure that you choose the right mattress for you. If your mattress is too soft then you won't get the proper support and wake up sore and tired from your muscles working all night. On the other side having a very firm mattress can work against you too by not supporting the lighter parts of your body and give you poor circulation. Everyone has different comfort levels and the only one that will know what it is will be you. So research and choose your adjustable mattress carefully.

Special features of adjustable beds

Finding the best adjustable bed possibly is very important not only for your health but if it's in your home you want a nice looking bed that will fit your décor and not look as if it were a hospital bed. Some of the special features that are in these beds and benefit you are the three types of adjustments that can be accomplished. First the total height you want your bed for easy access. Second would be the ability to adjust the angle of your head. And thirdly you can raise your legs slightly or even your knees. The adjustable beds are run by a noiseless motor that operates the bed mounts and the bed massage feature. Having a special heat option will allow those sore and aching muscles to feel more at ease or keep you warm on a cold night.

The basics in choosing an adjustable bed.

An adjustable bed consists of true basic parts, the mattress and the bed base. The base comes in two typical types - commercial and regular use. The commercial is your typical hospital adjustable bed and would not be too eye appealing in your home, that is why there is the very durable regular style. Make sure you pay attention on the frame construction and get the most heavy duty you can without losing the look of an elegant piece of furniture. Look to make sure the bed has quality motors and are CSA approved and UL listed. Also insure that there are not stray wires and has a plug in feature and is a polarized modular system. One more thing that you should look for is that the adjustable bed will incline at least 50 degrees at the feet and head. The ideal incline would be 60 degrees. Remember to research manufacturer and read reviews on their beds and you will find the right be for you.

Daryl plaza is the owner of adjustablebedresource.com a website that is designed with resources and reviews that will help you learn more about the benefits of your health by using a adjustable bed

A Quandry

2009-02-25T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Sara Poginy

So I've been thinking that there's a lot of irony in this whole "searching for at-home work" thing. I know there are those who want to work from home because they hate office politics or they don't like the drive to work or their spouse wants them to have dinner on the table and a nice footrub when they get home. But I think there's a large majority who want to work from home in order to be there with their child or children.

Personally I/we have made the commitment to have me stay home with our daughter come hell or high water (or bankruptcy). We feel strongly that it is best for her to have me home, not only because we feel it is right for her personally, but because we feel that there are larger impacts. Without becoming too controversial, I would argue that the decision to stay home with your child has even larger social implications. A parent who stays home with a child at least for the first year or two of the child's life is able to be a source of stability and example. These first years form a child's ENTIRE life and therefore, their impact on society as a whole. I would go so far as to say that I think governments should provide a stipend to parents who stay at home with their children because in a majority of cases, these children become better-balanced, less confused and more stable adults. These parents are providing a service to the Universe.

And, as a qualifier, of course I understand that there are parents and care-givers who just can't stay home with their child/children. Sometimes there are cases when this is just not financially feasible or for whatever reason, it just can't happen. This is understood and honestly, I have no idea how we've made it this far without the ground falling out from underneath us. But somehow it's happened.

So, on to the irony

The irony is that amidst all of these great intentions, sometimes, during the search for a work-at-home position, the child falls by the wayside. I don't mean that I forget about the child or that she's in a corner eating paper while I hover over the computer looking at job listings. I just mean that sometimes I get so obsessed with filling out applications or looking at forums, trying to find a suitable position (or ANY position), that I forget she's playing at my feet. The whole point of being home with her is so that I can BE with her; enjoy her; explore with her. And here I am, grinding my teeth down to the gums and developing hives (again) just so that I can find something that will allow me to be here with her. I just can't let myself enjoy the fact that I AM HERE with her!

Ug. When am I going to get it?

I am a mother who is committed to staying home with my child. I am also committed to finding ways to supplement our income from home; ideally I'd like to do this through writing, as this is my passion. I am often sarcastic, cynical and raw in my writing. I am always honest.

History And Party Trivia Of Stuffed Animals

2009-02-25T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

The concept of stuffed animals are reflected in tomb paintings that date back a really long time to Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia civilizations. Based upon the paintings as they have been discovered and translated, it would appear that stuffed animals had a purpose in religious ceremony and ritual as well as being used for the purpose of human play. Medieval Europe used stuffed animals in mystery plays to represent animals seen in the Bible stories. Stuffed animals were used to represent characters like the serpent in the Garden of Eden or lions in the story of Daniel in the lions' den. These animal roles were a pivotal part of the story that could not be ignored, but could not acted out by a human actor either. Therefore, the stuffed animals worked much better to fill the part.

Toys became a booming industry during the Industrial Revolution in Europe. Soft toys became increasingly popular among the population with the Steiff Corporation of Germany quickly becoming the industry leader. However, all stuffed animals are not always made by mechanized industry and a great deal of samples of stuffed animals have been found made in a more homemade genre with stuffings full of stray, cotton, batting, rags, and even beans. Some stuffed animals have even been found to have been made from stuffing the skins of hunted animals, but it is unclear whether these were animals that were made for use as a toy, or if they were utilized to become display items which would be more of a taxidermy utilization, not necessarily a toy.

Among the most popular stuffed animals, the teddy bear and the sock monkey almost always rank high toward the top of the list. Both have been in production since the early 1900s, while there is evidence that sock monkeys may have been popular much earlier, although not in formal production. Today, soft toys and stuffed animals remain popular. In recent years the Ty Company brought back a renaissance of sorts to the stuffed animal market with their Beanie Baby line. Animal lovers, children and collectors from countries all over the world bought up as many stuffed animals as Ty Company could produce including stuffed versions of lizards, dinosaurs, unicorns, and goldfish along with the standard animal patterns of bears, cats, dogs, bunnies, etc. Today, literally hundreds if not thousands, of companies produce stuffed animals for sale worldwide.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies (http://partysupplieshut.com), using proper etiquette, and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free coloring sheets, printable games, and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Character Party Supplies (Character-Party-Supplies.com) to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties. Kids birthday party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

Flowers To Touch The Heart

2009-02-24T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Muzrak Maksidov

Roses, daffodils, tulips, violets, chrysanthemums. The perfect way to melt the heart of every woman in your life is with flowers. Flowers touch that special place inside of every woman and let them know that you care. Whether it is your wife, girlfriend, or mom, flowers speak the universal language of affection and appreciation. Sending flowers is a tangible way to show your love and regard.

In this day and age, there are many ways to give flowers to the woman in your life and the Chicago area is a wonderful hub of different options. No matter your style or budget, you can send flowers to the woman you love. Flowers can be found in arrangements or can be purchased singly. Baskets and bouquets are other ways to express how you feel to that special woman. You can combine flowers with candy or balloons to create a unique arrangement. Flower arrangements come a rainbow of colors and styles.

If the internet purchases are your style then there are a number of options available. Search for your favorite florist and flowers for that special woman are right at your fingertips. It couldn't be easier. Make your selection from a huge variety of options and then have them delivered right to that special lady's door. Here in Chicago where our lives are hectic and time is short, delivery is often the best option. Just a few moments at your computer and you can let the women in your life know that you care.

What florists are available in the Chicago area? Some of the most popular are Niu Florist, Sycamore Florist, Dekalb Florist and Society Hill Flowers. Each of these flower shops offers you a variety of convenient options. You can choose from a variety of arrangements or design one yourself. Each flower arrangement can be personalized with a note that shows you care.

What variety of flower should you send? Each flower has a symbolic meaning. You can send one specific kind of flower or create a bouquet that shows an array of feelings. For you mom, you might give Larkspur, which symbolizes laughter or perhaps Daffodils, which symbolize regard. For a new relationship, Lilacs represent first love and Violets stand for affection. If you wish to honor your wife, you might choose Blue Violets, which are a symbol of faithfulness or Red and White Roses, which represent unity.

Flowers truly are the way to a woman's heart. Tell your girlfriend you care, let your wife know how much she means to you; thank your mom for all her years of care. Sending flowers is an easy and heartfelt way to express your feelings for that special woman in your life.

Muzrak Maksidov runs the website http://www.society-hill-flower-buy.com, which is provides information related to flowers. This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact and link is hyperlinked.

Essential Tip To Finding A Reputable Moving Company

2009-02-24T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Paul W Wilson

Moving house means decisions. Who will move what to move, and how to move? For the sake of sanity one needs to find a reputable mover. Begin by asking your company whether they can recommend a mover. Next, look through the yellow pages and note down the names and contacts of at least 4-5 companies that have offices where you reside and operate in your new location. Find out, how long each company has been in the business and check their referrals. Choose companies that have been around for at least ten years.

Meet them to find out which ones are efficient, courteous, and have good business systems in place. Ensure that they do the moving themselves and do not sub-contract the assignment. Ask the companies to come to your home and do an estimate.

Ask about:
* What services they offer?
* The extent of insurance they provide?
* What guarantees are offered?
* Full name as well as DBA names of the company and their address?
* Phone numbers, toll free numbers, as well as tracking system numbers?
* DOT and MC license details.
* Web site addresses and e-mail contacts.
* Company office address and contact details for where you are moving.

In accordance with applicable laws, most reputed movers will give you a copy of, "Your Rights and Responsibilities when you Move," Before you finalize a mover check:
* The corporate information providedyou can do this online or at the office of secretary of state.
* Use the DOT and MC numbers to verify the company workings. Use www.SaferSys.org . They will provide:
* The name, addresses, phone number, and contact details of the company. Check against the information you have gathered.
* They will display whether the company is in service or out of service.
* Information on the number of trucks and drivers will give you an idea of the extent of their business.
* The company should be: authorized for hire, licensed to operate interstate and household goods should be a part of their cargo carried list.
* Be sure to go through inspection records. Make sure everything is in order.
* Use the FMCSA Licensing and Insurance site to check the company's insurance.
* Check out the company's business practices with BBB, Better Business Bureau.
* Call FMCSA's safety violation and consumer complaints cell and check on the company, whether there are any complaints.

Once you have done the needful check the condition of the trucks and whether the name of the company is displayed all over the body. If you find everything is okay look through the paperwork with a fine tooth comb. Never sign any documents that are blank. Only sign papers that are filled in completely.

Be a well informed mover:
* Check the estimate as well as weight of the goods.
* Find out who handles packing and unpacking and if the estimate includes all costs.
* Determine if the goods will be transported directly or whether a storage facility will be used. If yes, is it the company's own or a third party?
* Ask about terms and conditions for goods packed by you.
* Find out who will handle paperwork licenses, border crossings, customs documents, and so on.
* Ask about Replacement Value Protection.

Be aware, check for loop holes. Check goods against your inventory before packing as well as after unpacking. A little bit of effort goes along way in making moving smooth and hassle free.

Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888MovingCompanies.com, the premier website to find help on moving including moving companies search, compare movers, moving insurance, auto transport, moving tips, and more. He also freelances for http://www.1888Discuss.com.

Is Your Home A Healthy Home

2009-02-23T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Liv Micoli

Do you suffer from allergies, asthma, chronic dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis and don't know why or how to control it? Better yet, did you know that most people would just chalk it up to symptoms of seasonal allergies?

Do you ever notice that your symptoms are better on some days and worse on others? Did you know that the environment could have little to do with how you're feeling?

You could be chemically sensitive and not even be aware of it!

If you can recall the times of our parents (or even grandparents for the younger readers!) household cleaners and products consisted of very few ingredients.

Lemons, vinegar, lard, even the old fashioned waxy soap bars can clearly be remembered in closets and cupboards and bathroom sinks alike.

Ironically enough, you didnt hear too much about allergies or skin problems back then - especially when cleaning the house.

Today, we are hearing more and more stories about autism, ADD, and other ailments such as shortness of breath. Childhood allergies have exploded into the mainstream so much so that you're actually ABNORMAL if you don't suffer from one allergy or another.

People have to realize that this is NOT JUST the environment to blame!

Household products contain Toxins that can and do affect your health. Your home is as lethal as a toxic waste dump and the problem is - YOU choose to make IT THAT WAY!

Products that contain bleach, ammonia, phosphate and sodium benzoate to name a few of the basics, are destroying your immune system and ONLY YOU have the power to stop it from happening!

Pick up a bottle of any product you have in your home and chances are - you won't be able to pronounce half the ingredients listed!

We try to follow a simple rule in our house - if you can't pronounce it - don't use it!

Researching healthy alternatives to cleaning products is your first step. Products that are environmentally safe and are all-natural have been around for more than 20 years, yet only recently have people begun paying attention to what they have been saying all along - common household products do have the power to harm your immune system.

Your Children don't have to suffer from "childhood ailments". By simply switching the products you use in and around your home - your family (including your pets!) will become healthier, have less illnesses and just have a better general well being overall.

For More Information on how household toxins can harm your family please visit this author's website:

http://www.easyworkbiz.com

Couponing Online For Beginners Online Shopping

2009-02-22T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Domenic Teoli

Coupon Codes - Online Shopping Tips

I'M sure the majority of us remember our mommies opening up those catalogs or newspapers on those Sunday mornings , clipping those coupons like kids opening up Christmas gifts .

For every coupon my mom would clip she would pause and smile , she would then turn to me and whisper " shop like mommy and save all the time " (LOL)

Today mind you , its still a great way to save and im sure more than half of us still clip coupons from catalogs whenever we can .

but with the Internet things are changing , every year more and more people are shopping online , and as the retailing business grows online , prices are dropping dramatically because of the competition .

Smart shoppers are noticing that shopping online is not only convenient but can save you lots of money .

So how do smart shoppers shop ?

Most smart shoppers use online coupons called coupon codes , these are numeric digits that are entered on a merchants site at checkout to receive a discount .

They also keep a list of their favorite stores and wait patiently for their promotional offers or blowout sales in order to save that extra 10 to sometimes 75% off regular prices and in addition they use coupon codes for extra savings ..

Now the tricky part is finding these coupon codes , many online merchants do not advertise discount coupon codes on their site, I don't think they want all their customers using coupon codes for discounts .

Here are four ways to find coupon codes .

1) One way to find a stores coupon online is by emailing the the merchant , most of them will take forever to email you back but some of them will , ( its worth a try )

2) you can find lots of printable coupons and coupon codes by hanging around shopping forums whereas you can trade coupons and deals .

3) download or order that particular stores catalog online if they have , most of them are free and many times you'll find coupon codes and promotional offers .

4) there are also some sites online that spend their days looking for coupons and they post them for free , if you find a site that has free discount coupons " BOOKMARK THEM " and try to find more sites that provide the same service .

Everytime you shop online always make sure theres no coupon codes lingering online for that particular store you want to shop .

Coupon codes are great savings . Use them whenever and however you can .

You too can shop like mommy and save all the time (lol)

For some great savings and free online coupon codes visit http://www.mommysavesbig.com/

Your Moving Checklist

2009-02-22T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Steve Gillman

A moving checklist can keep you from forgetting important things, like turning on the utilities in your new home. You'll want to make your own list of things to be done, but you can start with the suggestions below.

Moving checklist - One Month Before

Make reservations with moving company.
Notify friends and family and give them your new address.
Submit change of address forms to post office.
Get documents for school transfers, if you have children.
Have a garage sale or otherwise lighten the load.

One Or Two Weeks Before

Arrange utility shut-offs and new connections.
Transfer banking accounts to new location.
Return books to library, rented movies, etc.
Transfer prescriptions to new location.
Clean house and dispose of things that won't be moved.
Start packing and labling boxes.
Pack an "essentials" box for arrival, with toiletries, paper plates, etc.
Make moving plans (make hotel reservations, get maps, etc.).

Moving Day

Start early and remember to eat.
Double check every room and storage area.
Turn off lights, lock doors.
Leave the keys with the new owner or real estate agent.

You will undoubtedly have many more items to add to your personal list. Start writing down anything you think of as soon as you know you'll be moving. Will the phone be on when you arrive at your new home? Will you have to return across the country just because you forgot about a safe-deposit box that has the family jewelry. The best way to avoid problems like these is to start early on your moving checklist.

About The Author
Steve Gillman has invested in real estate for years. See a photo of a beautiful house he and his wife bought for $17,500 on his home page, or go straight to the section on real estate investing: http://www.HousesUnderFiftyThousand.com/investing-in-real-estate.html.

Simpler Living Ditch The House

2009-02-21T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by J Allen

Sound drastic? Maybe so, and admittedly it's not for everyone. But for those who may be at the place where they're open to considering a lifestyle change or ways to free up time to pursue other interests, read on. Most of us get to this point due to various life changes, but for others, being tied to a house & property is already beginning to provide less feeling of security and seems more of an anchor. Even if that's the case but the time for an alternative isn't right, use this information in planning for the future.

Houses have many ways of becoming little monsters requiring continuous care and feeding, while they grow to consume ever-increasing amounts of time & money. Having for most of my life owned several of them ranging from small to quite large, I can attest to the fact they are amazingly demanding. Especially if we maintain them properly so they retain or increase their value, and provide a comfortable and attractive domicile.

Whether bought new or pre-owned seems to make little difference. Things like brick and stone exteriors of course reduce painting, and there are other maintenance time-savers, like sprinkler systems, but nothing eliminates the need for continual upkeep. There is always something that leaks, breaks, wears out, needs painting, caulking, or other repair. The list is endless from plumbing and appliances, to heat, AC, roofs and pools.

As seasons change, it's the same. Each year, we spend large sums of money and tons of time with lawns, landscaping, fences, pools, gardens and more. On top of that, there is the inevitable remodeling as needs & tastes change, plus avoiding negative impact on resale value due to outdated décor.

Something many folks never consider is how much it costs just to have a house, especially if expenses like property taxes and insurance are escrowed as part of a mortgage payment. But if you make those annual payments directly, they can be quite hefty, and for large properties, the monthly tax bite easily exceeds the mortgage payment for a small house. Also for large houses, the incremental energy expenses for electricity and gas to heat, cool and illuminate them are often wasted on space no longer used.

The point is, we spend a lot of time and money, in many plain and subtle ways, for the privilege of owning a home. And there's nothing wrong with doing so, if that's what we want. It can be a nice feeling to have carved out our small piece of the world and tend to it. In fact, attending to all the little projects, and caretaking can be a therapeutic diversion, especially if our day job is mostly mind work at a desk, or stressful in some way.

But if we're past all that, either tired of it, or otherwise wanting something different, consider the alternative of chucking it all and finding an apartment or condo to either rent or own. Debating the advantages of owning or renting is a topic for other articles. One can actually make a case for either approach, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Depending on budget, the desired amenities can be had either way, but in general, one can usually get more and do less by renting, plus there is the added advantage of staying unencumbered and mobile.

Advantages can be broken into a couple categories: reduction or elimination of upkeep, and increased amenities. The former is more about saving time and money while still having an attractive, well-maintained place to live, while the latter has to do with the things we have use of without the associated costs of building, buying, storing, or maintaining them.

As an aside, the whole idea of getting rid of a house as a step toward a new lifestyle, usually also involves disposing of excess stuff. This whole process is another subject, but in short, we are likely to achieve even more success and freedom by eliminating the accumulated baggage of years past. It can be strangely liberating not to be tied to a lot of things.

If one has spent significant years in a house, the advantages of an apartment or condo may not be immediately apparent. Beautiful surroundings are there to be enjoyed with none of the chores of keeping them up. Lawns are groomed, trees and shrubs pruned, everything watered, fertilized & weeded, and every season, fresh flowers planted. Pools, grills, gardens, patios, and outdoor areas are always ready for use. Various outside recreation is available depending on the property, and ranges from volleyball to the beach, to golf.

Some places offer extensive fitness centers, saunas & massage, gyms for aerobics or basketball, and courts for racquetball and squash. Also inside are business centers including conference rooms, computing facilities, libraries, billiard & pool rooms, party areas for groups, media rooms & theaters, and concierge services for nearly everything else one might want or need.

Also, there are no concerns about upkeep and repairs. It's someone else's job to keep everything in working order. If it's broke, call maintenance. Most all places change out air conditioner filters, and some replace light bulbs. The degree to which one can be accommodated varies widely accordingly budget and personal preference, but even modest means benefit from the basics, and realize substantial time savings.

Selecting an apartment or condo that delivers all one wants, requires as much, if not more effort than choosing a house. Living many years in a house can cause us to forget some of those less obvious considerations. If you haven't lived in this type environment since leaving home or graduating college, then you'll want to do some prep work to ensure ending up with the kind of accommodation desired. Check out articles on what to look for that are tailored to renting or owning apartments and condominiums.

If you're ready for something different, a way to create more free time, reduce expenses, enjoy a comfortable, less demanding lifestyle, then pursuing this alternative will take you a long way toward meeting those goals.

John Allen writes on a wide range of topics. Visit his blog to read more or obtain feeds. He can also be reached through his travel website Caribbean Destinations which focuses on the Eastern Caribbean.

Things To Remember In Making A Child Birthday Party Invitation

2009-02-21T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Trevor Mulholland

A child birthday party invitation should be fun, cute and interesting. It should give an idea of the fun that kids can expect at the party. Making an interesting invitation would help in ensuring that more kids (and parents) will attend the event.

A child birthday party invitation should have a theme, the same way that the party itself should have one. For kiddie parties, themes like circus, fairies, pirates, princes and princesses are good options. Getting the children to wear costumes is also a fun way to celebrate the special day. The invitation should adopt the theme of the party and give instructions on whether the guests are expected to bring something or wear a particular costume.

Some parents forego the usual cards when it comes to kiddie invitations. Children will be more interested in joining in the fun if they receive special invites like toys, cuddly bears, stuffed dinosaurs, dolls or invitations shaped like airplanes, trucks and balls. If the party has a pirate or a fairy theme, having someone dressed as these characters to take the invitations personally to the kids will surely maximize attendance at the party. Of course, this is only reasonable if the invitees live just around the area where the celebrant resides.

Color schemes for kiddie party invitations should depend on whether the celebrant is a girl or a boy. For boys, colors like blue, green, red and even yellow can be used. For girls, pink is the most common color although other pastel shades can be used. The thing about color schemes when it comes to children's parties is that multiple colors can be used without fear of going overboard. Children like colors and the brighter the invitations are, the better.

To get the parents involve, reserve a section of the venue for adults and prepare some activities or games where parents can join their kids. Food should also be prepared for both kids and adult guests. To make sure that the party goes on without a hitch, ask the parents of the guests whether their kids have any allergies or diseases that can be triggered by particular activities or food. Also, prepare for simple tokens that can be given to the kids after the party. They don't need to be expensive. Kids will love them whatever they are as long as they're cute and colorful.

A child birthday party invitation should be able to convey the fun that kids will have in the coming party. Making the invites interesting will help maximize attendance at your kid's special event.

Birthday-invite.com provides you with information on where to find stunning birthday invitations, like a child birthday party invitation, or how to make them yourself! http://www.birthday-invite.com

Digging Up Your Family Roots Part 1

2009-02-20T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Jordan McCollum

You've begun delving into your family history. You've already filled in all the names of your great-grandparents on your family tree. You've begun collecting the legal documents that record the milestones of your ancestors' lives: birth, marriage and death certificates. You've even located your family in a few census records. But before you push further back, why not stop and really get to know these people? After all, that's the purpose of tracing your family roots: knowing more about your ancestors.

If you have names, dates and records through your great-grandparents, you have fifteen lineal ancestors to get to know, both living and dead. To get to know your deceased ancestors better, you have to dig deeper on the paper trail. To better acquaint yourself with your living ancestors, start conducting oral history interviews. Both of these techniques are explained in more depth in this set of articles. Part one will discuss digging deeper on the paper trail, while part two is an introduction to conducting oral history interviews.

Digging up Your Family Roots: Filling in Your Ancestors' Lives

Documentary support is vital in genealogical research. Even the oral histories of your living relatives will require supporting documents, which they would hopefully be able to provide for you. While these documents include things like birth, marriage and death certificates, it will involve more than just these documents to get to know your deceased ancestors better.

This part of your research might begin with your oldest living relative. He or she might be able to tell you of books or newspaper articles mentioning relatives, even if he or she doesn't have copies of them. The resources your relatives share with you are also a good starting place, including newspaper clippings, photos, books, Bibles, journals, etc.

Newspapers are an excellent resource. If your relatives have provided you with clippings describing a big event, locate the actual newspapers (usually on microfilm or microfiche by now) and search the following days for follow-up stories. For example, I have a great-great-great uncle who was a police officer. He was shot and killed in the line of duty. Not only do we have newspaper records of the stories about him, but we also have stories about the criminal who shot him: the pursuit, the murder of my relative, the shootout, the dynamiting of his hideout, the holding cell, the trial. This event happened nearly a century ago, yet we have it well documented.

The Internet is a good place to start your search. Search engines may be able to provide reliable and helpful information, or even photographs of ancestors. However, as with all things on the Internet, don't trust everything you read, and do record the URL or source of all information. To find newspaper clippings offline, use indexes of newspapers from areas where your relatives lived. An excellent resource might be the obituary of deceased relatives. You've already gathered the death date and place, so you know where and when to look to find the obituary in their local newspaper. Many places are served by more than one newspaper, so search all those you can find. The availability of other milestones like birth, engagement and wedding announcements vary, but try to find those as well. If possible, search for your surname in the newspaper index. Be sure to check for "alternative" spellings of your last name as well.

Newspaper resources are only one resource. Military, probate, immigration, court, deed, and church records are each invaluable sources of information. It might be wise to employ a professional genealogy research service to help you with these aspects of your family history. Not only will this save you time, but you can benefit from professional genealogists' years of experience.

Professional genealogy research can be well worth the cost when it means that you get to spend more time reading about your ancestors and getting to know them and less time looking for your resources and getting to know the archives.

The largest repository of genealogical data is the Family History Library (FHL) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this resource can be a one-stop genealogical gold mine. However, traveling to Salt Lake may not be in your budget. Retaining the services of a professional genealogy researcher located near the FHL is another way to take advantage of the millions of records found there.

Real family history research is more than recording names and dates. Digging up your family roots is more than gathering birth, marriage and death certificates. The goal of family history is coming to know your ancestors better. Start getting acquainted by fleshing out your family roots for both your living and dead ancestors.

A descendant of many avid genealogists, Jordan McCollum works for 10x Marketing, an Internet marketing firm. For more information on fleshing out your family roots or professional genealogy research, see http://www.heirlines.com Heirlines Family History & Genealogy.

Planning Weekly Menus

2009-02-20T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Randi Kuhne

Preparing your weekly menus in advance takes a bit of time, but once you do it a couple of times, you'll realize how much time you save, and how nice it is not to think about what to have for dinner each night after a hard day's work. You'll have everything you need for the meal instead of getting half-way through preparations and realizing you don't have an important ingredient. And if you're running late, someone else may be able to step in and get the meal started!

So, where do you begin?

Sit down with some of your favorite cookbooks, family recipes from your card file (or computer file), and some new recipes from the newspaper or internet that you've been wanting to try. You'll need a pen and paper, too. A notebook or clipboard is useful.

Get a family member or two to participate. They may think they don't want to, but showing them the pictures in a cookbook may entice them. It's a good way to get more variety in your meals, and teaches your children useful life skills. They may even get some credit at school for doing it!

If they're too young to read, they can suggest some favorite foods. If all they recommend is corn and French fries, incorporate what you can and get additional participation from them by asking them to choose between a couple of food (green beans or carrots?)

Little kids don't need to sit through the whole session, but if they can do some coloring or play quietly in the same room, you can let them help make choices from time to time and also keep an eye on them. (You might put together an activities box just for menu-making time--things they only get to use during this time.)

Now the fun begins. Oops--let's backtrack a little. You don't want to be too hungry or too full when doing this. So plan to do it after lunch, perhaps, or have a snack while doing it.

O.K., now we're really ready. Start looking through your resources and make notes of recipes and their locations. Once you have about 20 selected, you can begin sorting out a week of dinners. You want to have enough choices so you don't end up with chicken every night.

Once you have your week's entrees selected, decide on accompanying side dishes, salads and desserts. Write it all down by day of the week. Use the recipes with the more perishable items earlier in the week.

Now go through the list, including all recipes, and write down all the items you'll need that you don't usually have on hand. Add these items to your weekly grocery list.

Your weekly menu will list the days of the week, the dishes planned for each day's dinner, and where to find any recipes you'll need.

After you've done this a few weeks, you can start repeating some dinners. If you put the weekly menus list in your computer with items needed for each meal it's easier to mix and match later. Eventually you'll have enough weekly menus to repeat a whole week when you want to.

Options:

Get your family to help with meal preparations. It's a great way to spend quality time together. Little kids can help wash vegetables or set the table. Bigger ones can help with the cooking--boys, too! (Like Reese on Malcolm in the Middle.)

If your family gets cranky before meals, have a light snack ready: V-8, fresh fruit, or peanut butter/cheese and crackers if the mealtime is an hour or so away.

Plan on using leftovers, if you expect to have some, perhaps incorporating them into a new dish.

If your family likes to go out to eat, plan on that in your weekly menu.

Have international night one day a week. Pick a day, and if you can, make it the same day each week. The menu is planned according to the theme. Everybody brings an interesting factoid about the country to the table. If you have more time and energy, add appropriate music and decor. Have a friend or neighbor from that country? Invite them for dinner! You'll learn about another culture and get more ideas for the next time you do that country. Don't know anyone from there? Watch a movie or documentary about that country or someone from it during or after dinner.

One final thought: Weekly menu planning doesn't have to be limited to dinner. You can plan breakfast and/or lunch, too!

Randi Kuhne is the owner of Kids Party Supplies (http://kids-party-supplies.com), a resource which helps parents find character and theme-related party supplies and gifts for their children. The site also has party planning ideas and other helpful information for parents.

What Is A Youth Fundraiser

2009-02-19T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Peter Crump

When having a youth fundraiser, you need to keep the word youth in mind. Try to make it fun for them, as they will be doing most of the work. A youth fundraiser can be very profitable if done properly. You can get the funds you are looking for and provide fun for the kids that are doing it.

If you can find someone to donate the space, then a carnival would be a wonderful youth fundraiser to have. A fundraising auction would also be a big hit. Both fundraisers would cost very little to get together, although you will need a lot of hands on help from the kids and the parents. You will have to organize carefully for either one of these fundraisers to go off smoothly and successfully. Make sure each person knows what is expected of him/her and what needs to be done. Then you're on your way to lots of fun and big profits with your fundraiser for youth.

A youth fundraiser carnival can be put together without much cost. You could have a fortune teller which would only take a glass ball, a table, and someone sitting there in a long dress and a scarf tied around the head. Have a ring toss table, where people can try to toss a ring around empty bottles and have small prizes for the ones that are successful. The youth will really get involved with this type of fundraiser as they enjoy acting and playing the games.

Get large cardboard boxes and tape them together for a house of fun for the little ones or have a dartboard with safety tipped darts. Try a fish tank with magnetic fish in the tank and have a fishing contest, borrow a outdoor play set or a few of them and have this as rides for the kids, sell hot dogs hamburgers and drinks at your youth fundraiser these will surely be a hit with everyone.

Fundraising auctions are also a neat way to have a youth fundraiser. Have the kids go through the community and collect items that people don't need anymore. Get the youth themselves to donate any games or items that they don't need. When you accumulate enough items you can start your fundraising auction. Set your items up in a large area and have a set time for viewing. Once the prospective buyers have seen all you have to offer, you can start your bidding.

At a youth fundraising auction it is best to have a set price to start with and anything that is bought above this price is like icing on the cake. It will make it more than profitable for the amount of donations you need. These are not the only choices you have for a youth fundraiser. Have a brainstorming session and you will be surprised at the ideas the youths will come up with.

Youth fundraisers can be a lot of fun.

For a website totally devoted to Fundraising visit Peter's Website Fundraising Answers and find out about Fundraising as well as Charity Fundraising and more, including Cheerleading Fundraising, Church Fundraisers and School Fundraisers.

The Mundane Toilet Brush Making The Right Choice

2009-02-19T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by David Andrew Smith

We all have at least one toilet in our house or apartment and many of us have two or more. What should we find close to these toilets? A toilet brush. It is rare to find a toilet in a domestic setting that does not have one nearby. Why do we put so much value in a toilet brush?

A toilet brush is a useful accessory and in fact an absolute necessity when it comes to the cleaning of the interior surfaces of the toilet bowl. There we have it, it is a simle, straightforward cleaning accessory, not a decorative item. It is a brush because it is required to scrub away at those resistant stubborn stains. However we live in times where individuals require that all their accessories fit in with each other and look aesthetically pleasing. Toilet brushes and their holders are no exception to this. Consequently they can be found in all manner of shapes, sizes, colours, and materials and the same applies to the holders. You can have wooden, plastic or metal handles. You can find holders that attach to the wall or are free standing. They can be found as scrubbing brushes with long handles to humorous celebrity look-alikes. Novelty toilet brushes abound in the market place.

When deciding what toilet brush/holder you should get for your toilet consider its function and relate that to its design. It has a specific function and you have to decide if its design is best suited to carry out that function efficiently. Do not buy on impulse or because it looks good and would fit in decoratively.

Let us take a closer look at its function. It is used to scrub away at the dirt and accumulated faecal debris, and when used with the correct cleaning chemical will stop lime scale built up. Lime scale, especially in those areas not so visible will allow dirt to built up because of its roughened surface. Where does all of this collect? Well it can e found any where on the inner surface of the bowl. Faecal matter tends to accumulate on the sides towards the base and below the water line on the whole of the curved inner surface disappearing finally around the bend. This area in particular can become very badly stained. The second and important site for dirt and debris accumulation is under the rim, from where the flush water appears.

The brush should have its bristles orientated in such a way that it makes scrubbing under this rim easy. The handle should be firm but not completely rigid. If it is not firm then little pressure can be exerted in the brushing process because the handle simply bends. If it is completely rigid then you will not be able to get to all the surfaces at the base of the bowl. Avoid handles that are screwed on. Invariably in the brushing action these can unscrew and you will be continually screwing them back together. Metal handled ones are frequent offenders here. Do not purchase brushes that have guards on them that also act as lids to the holders. This attachment just gets in the way of correct brushing and will not allow the brush to reach all the parts that are necessary. Do not be unduly swayed by advertising, which indicates that toilet brushes are unhygienic and hot beds of disease causing organisms. If they are used in conjunction with a good toilet cleaner then anything harmful will be killed despite what the brush may look like. Unless of course it has been used to unblock the toilet in which case it becomes caked in large pieces of faecal matter. In these circumstances it is advisable to get rid of the brush and purchase a new one. As they are subjected to daily use their useful life is often short. So why pay a lot of money for a designer brush that you will soon be throwing out anyway. Some of the best brushes are the cheapest at no more than one pound each. At those prices you can afford to chuck them out at the first sign of wear or staining. At £20 you are going to be a little more reluctant to seek a replacement. The cheap simple brushes and holders do nothing to enhance the aesthetics of your toilet but invariably they do not detract from it either.

Always think function before looks when buying toilet brushes!

David Andrew Smith is the owner of http://wesparkle.co.uk and has worked for many years in the cleaning industry.

Adolescents And Alcohol

2009-02-18T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Katrina Wester

Are you raising a teenage grandchild? Has she questioned why she can't drink while you do? Do you have an appropriate response for her other than saying, "It's the law"? Do you worry that peer pressure might one day overcome your usually sensible teen grandchild? If so, here are some facts to arm yourself with the next time you get into a discussion about drinking.

THE FACTS

Although a teen might feel "old" enough to drink alcohol, the truth is that their bodies are still developing and alcohol has a greater impact on their physical and mental well-being than it does on an adult.

* Children who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcoholism than those who begin after age 21.

* Alcohol affects your brain; it can lead to a loss of coordination, poor judgment, slowed reflexes, distorted vision, memory lapses, and even blackouts.

* Alcohol can damage every organ in your body.

* Alcohol depresses your central nervous system thereby lowering your inhibitions. By doing so, it affects your self-control that can lead to risky behavior including unprotected sex.

* Excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to coma or even death.

* It is illegal to buy or possess alcohol if you are under 21.

* One drink can make you fail a Breathalyzer test. In some states that means you can lose your driver's license.

* Mixing drugs and alcohol can be deadly.

* Alcohol is fattening.

* Even if you did drugs as a teen, you might not be able to recognize the signs of drug use today. Many of the drugs are different.

A DRINKING PROBLEM?

How, as a grandparent, can you tell if your grandchild has a drinking problem? Here are some of the warning signs. Is your grandchild:

* Acting run-down, depressed or suicidal

* Having problems at school or with the law

* Stealing money

* Switching friends

TIPS FOR GRANDPARENTS:

* Moderate your own intake of alcohol.

* Talk to your child about alcohol and its consequences.

* Set the rules and then enforce them.

* Set a curfew and make it known that it's non-negotiable.

* Talk to your grandchild about peer pressure and work with her to stand up when the pressure gets tough.

* Remind your grandchild often that you will always pick her up from a party "no questions asked" if she is concerned about the designated driver or about driving herself.

* If you are worried about your grandchild using drugs, you are not alone, but just bear in mind that alcohol kills 6 times the number of people killed by every illegal drug combined. The numbers are staggering: ten million Americans are addicted to alcohol and it's the #1 drug problem of today's youth. Don't let your grandchild be a part of the statistics talk to them early and often about the dangers of alcohol.

* Even if you aren't raising your grandchild, these tips could help save your grandchild from problems with alcohol. Consider sharing this with their parents.

Sources:

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) The Facts for Families©
M.A.D.D. (Mother's Against Drunk Driving) http://www.madd.org
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (Alcohol and Drug Information) http://www.health.org

Katrina Hayday Wester is the Founder/CEO of Grandparents Magazine the FREE, fun, Online Magazine for grandparents, grandchildren and anyone who loves them! http://www.GrandparentsMagazine.net

The Most Successful Relocation Experience Ever

2009-02-18T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Dan Lyne

It seems like every financial publication I pick up these days has information about relocating. This is because as school finishes, May and June are the most popular months for families to move. In fact approximately half of all residential moves take place during the summer months. Since I've moved about 10 times in the last 20 years, with 3 moves being across the country with my wife, kids and pets, I feel qualified to share my experiences. In this article, my goal is to help readers ease the potential financial burden of relocating. Whether you're moving across the country or across town (I've done both a few times), a little strategic planning can help ease the transition for you and your family.

Manage your money online

Many banks and credit unions have made it easy to manage their customers' accounts online. These days, anyone who has internet access should strongly consider managing their bank accounts online. Assuming you maintain appropriate security measures with their computer (virus software, anti-spyware, etc), managing bank accounts online is easy, safe and should ensure you don't have surprises (like accidently overdrafting on your account). During a relocation, if you manage your accounts online, you can check account balances, transfer money between your accounts (savings or checking), make loan payments or you can make arrangements to pay bills use web bill pay. You can accomplish these tasks, as well as viewing all of your up-to-date bank statements whenever and wherever you want.

A few years ago, I changed employers and moved my family across the country. At the time, there was no such thing as internet banking. The only way to get an update on my account balances was to go to the bank or phone them. I didn't have time to accomplish either and unfortunately, I bounced a check. I was able to recover by paying a penalty, but it was embarrassing. I was also late on a credit card payment, because the bill didn't arrive in time for me to complete an ontime payment.

A part of online account management is web bill pay. These day's most banks offer free web bill pay to their customers. I strongly urge anyone to take advantage of web bill pay. Web bill pay helps to ensure that your bills will be paid online. This is particularly beneficial because you don't want to rely on your mail catching up to your in your new home.

In order to minimize problems with late, forwarded mail, it's best to complete a US Postal Service Change of Address form at least 3-4 weeks prior to your move and get it to your post office.

Receipts for taxes

If you are relocating for a new job and your employer is not reimbursing or directly paying for your move, there's a good chance you move may be tax-deductible. You need to save all your receipts for the move. Movers, packers, moving supplies, etc. can all be tax deductible. IRS Publication 521 can provide direction for what moving expenses are deductible. Along these lines, it makes sense that the less you have to move the easier your move will be. Reducing the amount of your belongings will not only reduce the costs of your move, but can also provide you tax break. Donate clothes and furniture, as long as they're in decent shape, to the charities of your choice. Don't forget to ask for receipts. You won't be able to claim the deduction if you don't have a receipt.

Be organized & plan ahead

Prior to your move I recommend that you compare prices for all the services involved in your move that you will be paying. Additionally, you should create a checklist for everything you'll need to do. This includes forwarding mail, shutting off utilities, informing insurance companies of your move and ensuring you pick-up all medical records. Contact several professional movers 1 - 2 months prior to your move and determine which company will best satisfy your needs. Lowest price isn't the only consideration with a mover. Reputation of a company is also important. When you schedule your move, consider that weekends are very popular. Also, attempt to get the movers at the beginning of the day. If you're their last stop, they may be late, not to mention tired. Whether or not your packing boxes or not, ensure that everything is clearly labeled and also keep an inventory of everything that is packed. This is especially important for fragile items. There's a chance that if the movers don't replace damaged items, you may be able to take a deduction for their replacement.

There's much involved with a relocation. I can't begin to identify everything involved, but as you can see, if you need to plan ahead and stay organized, in order to reduce the financial stress of the entire process.

Dan Lyne has moved many times and closed on many homes. He's had some very good and some bad relocating experiences. He's writing these articles to share his experiences with his readers in hopes that they will benefit from his knowledge. You can find more information about home mortgages, and debt consolidation, by clicking on the links and checking out the sites he frequently contributes to.

Solving The Worlds Problems By Eating Dinner

2009-02-17T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Carole Pagan

It sounds just too simple. You might think I've lost my mind. But I think I figured out how to solve the world's problems! We can solve a lot of the worlds problems just by eating dinner with our family regularly. Really. Let's take a closer look at how many problems we could solve.

Healthier meals will

* Stop obesity, improve health - stop the rise in devastating diseases like heart attacks, stroke, cancer and diabetes.

* Give you more energy.

* Keep you out of the nursing homes longer.

* Help you have fewer colds and flu.

* Save you money.

* Give you less time to spend in front of the TV getting your mind filled with negative junk.

* Keep you fit and trim.

* Give you better looking skin, hair, nails.

* Build your self-confidence.

* Teach the overall value of good nutrition to your kids.

* Teach your kids, (& spouse?) how to cook healthy meals fast. (these lessons are not getting passed down!)

Plus, a calm dinner will -

* Allow you to actually connect with your family.

* Give you the opportunity to talk with your spouse and kids.

* Let you find out what's going on in their lives and in their friends lives.

* Make them feel like someone cares enough to listen.

* Let you talk about what's going on in the world-

- What's wrong, what's right?

- What does your religion have to say about it?

- How do they feel about it?

- How do you feel about it?

- What should they do if confronted with a situation?

* Give you time to discuss how your family life can be improved-

- What problems need to be addressed?

- Time, money, pitching in, fairness, dress?

- What's everyone's schedule?

- How can everyone work together to work it all out?

Kind of a daily family meeting time.

Did you know that kids who have dinner with the family at least 3 days a week are less likely to engage in risky sex or to abuse drugs or alcohol? It really does make a difference.

The keys to making this work are

* Having dinner at the table, with no TV.

* A real dinner. Do you ever see CEOs holding important business meetings at McDonalds? It's just not a place for anything serious. Fast food is for fast eating, nothing more. People naturally associate fast food with -chow it down-. You need a dinner that people will naturally linger over.

* Conversation with everyone being heard. Not judgmental. No yelling. Your biggest job here is to listen. Once you start trying to dominate, any open conversation will stop.

Yeah, it's hard at first. It's hard to get used to a new routine. It's hard to change your habits and make the time to do it. Everyone will want to eat in front of the TV, or in their room, or whatever it was that they had become accustomed to. It's hard for everyone to wait to be heard. But once the routine is established, it gets easier. Conversations will flow easily. Just be patient. The payoff is priceless.

Now imagine if every family were to do this. We would put a serious dent in

- Teenage sex

- Sexually transmitted disease.

- Drug use

- Alcohol abuse

- Gangs

- Drop outs

- Obesity

- Heart Attacks

- Strokes

- Cancer

- Diabetes

- Arthritis

- Depression

- Stress

- Hypertension

Imagine how different the world would be in one year.

You know, you can extend your reach too. If there's a kid who is wandering the streets at dinner time, don't just sit there and talk about them - invite them to dinner. You can make a difference in their life too.

Do you have a neighbor who lives alone? I'll bet they're not eating too healthy, and they're lonely. Invite them to dinner once in a while.

Who would have thought that changing the world could be as simple as having dinner with your family! Make this important ritual a priority in your family life.

Spread this message on. Let's see if we can make a difference!

Carole is the creator of CommonSenseLiving.com, and the author of numerous ebooks to help you get control of your life. She maintains that dieting keeps you fat, and if you eat right in the first place, you'll never have to diet again - plus you'll look great, stay healthy and have tons of energy. Find out how you can stop dieting forever

Baby And Child Adoption Informationexpect 12 Steps To International Or Domestic Agency Adoptions

2009-02-17T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Alan Sharpe

When my wife and I decided on baby adoption as a way to build our family, we discovered that whether you adopt through an adoption agency or go private, adopt a child internationally (China or Guatemala, let's say) or domestically, you go through 12 basic steps.

Step 1. You begin by learning about your options.
You discover who can adopt in your state or province, what age you must be, how many years you must be married to be eligible (if at all), what kinds of children are available, and so on.

Step 2. You decide what kind of adoption you want.
Next, you pick the type and method of adoption you want. You choose between a domestic adoption and an international adoption. And you decide if you will adopt privately, through your government-run children's protective services agency, or through an adoption agency.

Step 3. You find the money, or at least start.
International adoption is expensive, and private adoption can cost a fair amount as well. During this stage, you look at options for financing your adoption (loans, second mortgage, second job, grants, fundraisers).

Step 4. You choose your intermediary, whether adoption agency, facilitator or lawyer.
All adoptions in Canada and the United States, even private adoptions, are required by law to involve a social worker and lawyer at some stage.

Step 5. You complete an agency application form.
If you are adopting through an adoption agency, you complete their (lengthy!) application procedure. You interview with their staff, and discuss your goals and options.

Step 6. You complete your homestudy.
Regardless of the type of adoption you have chosen (private, facilitated, agency), you must complete a homestudy. A homestudy is both a process and a document that the government requires of all adoptive parents. It involves an inspection of your home, extensive questioning about your childhood, marriage, income and ability to parent, medicals and police checks.

Step 7. You participate in adoption classes.
If you are fostering, or adopting through the state, and even if you are adopting from abroad, you will take some introductory classes that prepare you for the arrival of your baby.

Step 8. You find your child, or have one selected for you.
This is perhaps the most exciting and exhausting stage, as it may take you weeks or months to find the child you are searching for, or for your agency to find that child for you. This step may involve meeting the birthparents.

Step 9. You prepare for your child's homecoming.
You buy a crib, diapers, formula, bottles, soothers, baby toys, and receive the, from family and friends. You read up on baby care.

Step 10. You receive your baby.
The big day arrives! An agency worker of person acting in an official capacity gives you your adopted child, you sign some papers, and head home with a brand new person strapped into a new card seat in your car. You pinch yourself a few times, believe me!

Step 11. You file a petition to adopt and finalize your adoption.
This is the formal procedure that you undergo to "petition" the government to adopt your new child. One day you go to court and sign a piece of paper, and your child is suddenly, legally yours, and you are suddenly, legally theirs. Take a book of Kleenex!

Step 12. You celebrate.
If you are like my wife and I, you throw a big party to celebrate your adoption finalization. It's like a second baby shower.

These steps, with a few changes here and there, are typical of all adoptions. Enjoy them!

Alan Sharpe adopted two boys and hasn't been the same since. He's thinking of creating a website and newsletter to help parents find adoption information about international child and baby adoption and other options.

Personalized Party Favors Say Im Glad You Came

2009-02-16T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

Sometimes we don't mean to forget to thank our guests for coming, but hosting a party can be a busy, almost maddening affair, and before you know it the night is over and someone wasn't acknowledged. We don't mean it to happen. We have good intentions of circulating and making sure that each and every guest has been welcomed and thanked. Yet, when it is over, it is hard to be sure that you connected with every single guest or is it? Actually, it is easy to be sure you talk to every guest at every party. How? By incorporating distributing personalized party favors into your guest circulating routine you can see exactly who has been spoken to and who hasn't, thus ending the possibility of any one feeling under-appreciated.

Personalized party favors can really add a personalized thank you to your party guests just be sure to get an accurate attendance count via RSVPs so you don't waste a lot of money on unusable favors (although you can always squirrel them away for Christmas gift exchanges if you want to be real frugal). In addition, personalized party favors can be selected to complement any party theme. For example, if you are throwing a retirement party for your spouse, consider personalized golf caps or balls, fishing caps or lures, or flasks. For a spa party containers of soap, body oils, bubble baths, sachets or candles (trial size and tea lights work fine) can be put into a small sized personalized galvanized pail and tied with tulle and ribbons in order to become a personalized party favor or gift pack.

Regardless of the party themes, personalized party favors can be distributed. Again, take time to follow up on the invitations to be sure that you have an RSVP for everyone who is planning to come. Then as you work your room, you can distribute the favors as a thank you for their friendship and attendance. You will know everyone has been thanked when there are no more gifts to distribute. Oh, and be sure to have a few spares made up and ready to go for those that simply decide at the last minute than your party is the happening place to be and show up without notice! After all, you are the experienced hostess that makes everyone feel so appreciated that they simply want to attend.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies (http://partysupplieshut.com), using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has a huge selection of free party games, coloring pages, word find, word scramble, printable baby and bridal shower activities. Over 100 adorable Personalized Party Favors to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties. Custom gifts are great to help create a lasting memory of your specail occasion.

Feng Shui And Romance Using The Ancient Art To Enhance Your Romantic Space

2009-02-15T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Heidi Richards

Feng Shui (pronounced fung shway) is the ancient Asian practice of object arrangement and space planning designed to bring balance, harmony and well-being to your environment. Its purpose is to enhance prosperity, creative, health and romance. Feng Shui fortifies a home with positive energy known as chi. The attainment of positive chi is both an art and a blessing to those who manifest that chi. The word "feng" means wind and "shui" means water, each one associated with a good harvest and ultimate good health or good fortune.

If your love life needs a quick boost, you can use the art of placement to produce the romantic results you desire. Relationships need the proper environment to grow. They need the balance of the five elements, too much or too little will find the romance wither. Here are some Feng Shui tips to enhance your romantic space:

The first thing you must do is remove clutter out of your romance area (generally this is the bedroom). That means you must remove trash, dirty ashtrays, dead plants and nothing should be stored under the bed. Dust and cobwebs on the fans, walls, light fixtures and ceilings should be cleaned away.

Enhance your space with romance colors, such as shades of pinks, reds and whites. Guys, this does not mean it has to be feminine. You can use maroon, grayish tones of pinks and whites to achieve the same results. The key is to not use any one color so much that it overpowers the others. Other good colors include browns, beiges, lavenders, yellows and deeper shades of those are appropriate.

If you keep flowers in the room (an excellent way to attract romance into your life), make sure they are always fresh. At the first sign of wilting, toss them out. Silk flowers are an okay alternative, provided they are free of dust. Absolutely no dried flowers as they signify death. Also, make sure the roses are de-thorned. Nothing prickly such as cactus, unless your goal is to break-up.

In Feng Shui a Relationship Alter positively stimulates a relationship. Designate a special place in your romance area in which to put items that will encourage a healthy, loving relationship. Things to include in your relationship altar can include a heart shaped pink crystal quartz, a pair of candles, mandarin ducks.

Use the Pairs Principle to encourage love. That means two candles, two nightstands, two lights on top, two potted plants, two pillows, two chairs, etc. The Chinese symbol for love is Mandarin ducks. They signify love, romance, fidelity, affection, and loyalty in love. Your bed should be placed in the commanding position of the room. This is to permit the widest possible vision. The door or entry to the room should be easily seen from the bed. And the head of the bed should be against a wall or against a corner. If you have nightstands, make sure one is on either side (a pair) and that the bed is accessible on three sides to attract and keep a partner. The bed should not be placed under a window.

The bedroom is for sleep and intimacy. No one should come into your room without your invitation. There should be no distractions such as workout equipment, a television, things that would remind you of work. It is good to hang pink (heart-shaped) crystals and wind chimes in a sunny window to attract good love energy (yang).

Pictures of you as a child, your children or other relatives should also be removed from the bedroom or romance area. This space should be reserved for couples and should only display pictures of the two of you. Dim lights will give the room a warm, inviting feeling. No harsh fluorescents or high wattage lighting, here.

While this is by no means the ultimate guide to Feng Shui for Romance, it is a good start. These ten tips will give your relationship area the boost it deserves and your romance the fulfillment it requires. Altar your space and you will altar your love life. If you want to know more about the ancient art of Feng Shui, there are many excellent resources listed below.

Porcelain Dolls Not Just For Children Any More

2009-02-15T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Johann Erickson

Doll collecting is the second most popular hobby in the U.S., and it's easy to see why. Porcelain Dolls transport us back to our childhood and evoke memories that no other toy can match. We remember our first doll, our favorite doll, the doll we loved to pieces and the beautiful doll we kept on a high shelf. We remember the comfort and love our dolls gave us and the first time we realized we were too old for our dolls. But were we really?

Consider porcelain dolls, they're the perfect collectible doll. With delicate faces and hands, they remind us of why we loved dolls so much in the first place. There are tiny, precious newborn porcelain dolls, child-like porcelain dolls in fancy attire, and porcelain dolls based on favorite characters.

Porcelain doll collecting can be addictive, and the choices can be overwhelming. There are artist dolls, made by hand in limited numbers; antique porcelain dolls, which are scarce; limited edition dolls, which are mass-produced but only in limited numbers; reproductions, that often attempt to duplicate popular antique or rare dolls; and many, many other types of porcelain dolls.

If you want to start collecting porcelain dolls, the first thing to do is decide what type of porcelain doll you want to collect. Perhaps Victorian style porcelain dolls capture your heart, or you just fall in love when you see a porcelain ballerina doll. Whatever type of porcelain doll you can't walk away from is the type for you.

Once you decide what type of porcelain doll you want to collect, (and the choice can be difficult!) you'll want to thoroughly research it. Knowing what porcelain dolls are worth and how to tell an antique from a reproduction just may save your wallet. But, like fine art, purchase the porcelain dolls you love.

Once you start building a collection, it'll be hard to stop. There are porcelain doll shows to attend, new friends to be made, and more and more porcelain dolls to be loved and admired. But every moment spent on porcelain dolls is like spending another moment in childhood.

About The Author

Johann Erickson is the owner of Online Discount Mart (http://www.onlinediscountmart.com). Please email the author and include an active link to this website if you'd like to use this article.

marketing@4intrepid.com

Happy Mothers Day Beloved Sons And Daughters

2009-02-14T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Patricia Nordman

My precious children!

How can I put into words the joy that is in my heart this Mother's Day? I must confess that so many times I have knelt in the dark of yet another day's end, begging God's forgiveness for my failures with you: my abruptness, harsh words, the ears that hear but tune out your silent pleas for understanding, the eyes that don't see the hurts of your little hearts, the omissions of simple pleasures and commissions of parental sins. I beg your forgiveness! I want to give you something this Mother's Day: a will of hope and a testament of God's love and mine.

I want to pass on to you a sustaining faith that will support you through your lives. My dear ones, I won't always be with you on the earth. You will go through crucibles of sorrows and trials. Don't allow them to defeat you! Some are tried in the furnace of affliction. Perhaps God will choose to refine you in this way because He wants to see His image restored in you. No matter what happens to you, praise, love, and thank your Saviour always. He has promised His strength to those who wait on Him. Man may fail, you may fail at times, but your loving Father will never fail you. I haven't always given you what you wanted--perhaps not even what you needed. I pray God will be the Sufficiency for my lacks, the Gentleness for my impatience, the Compassion for my misunderstandings, the Calm for my restlessness.

Dear ones, I want for you what God wants for you. He wants you to be His heroes, armed with faith, purity, and humility in a disbelieving, pleasure-seeking, vain world that has no time nor love for its gracious Creator. How sad! You have come into the world for such a time as this because God wants you to reflect His care and love to those who will cross your path of life. Fame and riches mean nothing. I beg you not to seek them! It may be that God will put you forward, but it will only be because He has a great work for you. But if He gives much He will expect much in return. Don't disappoint your beautiful Saviour! I thank you, dear precious gifts, for giving my life an eternal dimension--for giving me something to live, work, and strive for. You have inspired me and I love you deeply.

Happy Mother's Day!

Why People Attend High School Reunions

2009-02-14T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Robert Hirscheimer

High school is an experience that depends entirely on your place in the social realm of your class. For some, it is the best time of their life, and for others it is the worst. More often then not, what follows in college and in the real world is diametrically opposed to what happened in high school.

That is why after several years go by, there is some interest by all classmates to attend their high school reunion. The cool kids want to re-live their youth and visit the grounds where they felt on top of the world, and the nerds want to show everyone how far they have come.

There are other things that come into play as well. As time passes, classmates put on weight, and lose their hair. The real question is how much hair and how much weight. This is the number one thing that brings people together for class reunions - curiosity. Beyond that, there is the desire to rekindle the relationships that were so important in our teen years. We will never forget our high school friendships or the experiences that were critical in molding who we are today.

In a class reunion survey done by http://Myevent.com 87% of classmates that attended their class reunion found the reunion to be extremely gratifying, and said they would attend the next class reunion as well. So, whether out of curiosity, to show off, or for re-establishing old ties, class reunions seem to be more popular than ever. It is indeed noteworthy that reunions have become a fabric of our society. In the last year, many old television shows have had reunion episodes and a whole series was devoted to a high school reunion.

So, if you should get an invitation to your high school reunion, do not pass on the chance to go back in time and re-visit old friends and foes. You may be able to reconnect with some of your best friends you have ever had and establish new relationships with people you didn't even know existed.

Robert Hirscheimer is the President of http://Myevent.com the #1 website builder on the Internet. http://www.myevent.com allows anyone to create an incredible website with no skills for any event. There are special features for Class Reunion Websites, Family Reunion websites, Wedding Websites, or a website for any event. To create a website for a class reunion go to http://www.reunions.myevent.com and start a 7 day free trial with no credit card required. The cost is only $9.95 after the free trial.

Things To Know About Shutters

2009-02-13T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Daniel Roshard

Shutters are a worthwhile tool to use for reduced sunlight and occasional weatherproofing, shutters as well as blinds can also be used when it plays a part in interior design. Shutters as well as blinds are installed when it plays a part in the interior window frames, as well as external shutters are to be found made to upgrade the look of your house. These types of shutters are regularly decorative alternatively than functional, however some are to be found made for weatherproofing. The shutters mass market is seriously lavish and holds a lot of various products, there are many ways, brands and colors to choose from. The shutters and blinds you acquire will most doubtlessly depend on your budget and the size of windows you have..

The nice thing about blinds is that they can be made to cover both windows as well as doors. Slat blinds consist of individual, horizontal slats, which are held together among strings. Adjustable amounts of light can enter the room with a pull of a cord or twist of a long wand. Newer trends offer motorized process of the blinds. Venetian blinds are a popular slat variety that dates back to about 1770. When the slats of Venetian blinds are 19 to 24mm everyday, they are looked at as mini-blinds. The materials that are used to conduct slat blinds are metal, plastic, aluminum as well as vinyl. When it plays a part in some cases wooden slats are made as well as they are normatively referred to as wood blinds or bamboo blinds.

Solid blinds are rolled or folded up by the pull of a cord. There are no individual openings like the slat blinds. This market is known for its Holland blinds (or roller shades), pleated shades (which are made from fabric), and woven-wood blinds, which involve slats of decorated wood or bamboo. It is the woven-wood option that offers a better self-command of light and has been known to save energy.

Shutters are a solid type of window covering that repeatedly consists of a side stile, louvers and top as well as bottom rails. Individual panels are to be found hinged together to formulate one shutter unit. They are often used to magnify the appearance of a home, inside as well as out. Some of the functions active open-air shutters include the power to shed drizzle as well as protect windows as well as the home from low flying objects during drizzle and windstorms. When choosing non-functional shutters, they are quite easy to install with a crystal-clear screw or bolt to the exterior of your home.

The many types of material made for shutters involve wood, faux wood, vinyl and plastic. They can be ordered or bought with a collection of painted or stained finishes. Fabric shutters as well as European fashions are a widely used trend by homeowners. Further expanding the possibilities, both shutters and blinds can be custom made.

The thing to know when installing shutters is that a lot of the kits include mounting frames and some hinges that conduct it a relatively easy home improvement operation. There are also many various ways to remain your shutters clean up, while some are to be found dusted, such as wooden slats, others are to be found wiped with a moistened cloth to remove dust and buildup.

Shutters are used to enhance the light levels and sometimes to protect houses, you can also use shutters to upgrade the look of your house exterior, and use blinds for interior design purposes. Learn about different kinds of Shutters, read Daniel Roshard's Shutters Buying Tips.

Flowers For All Occasions

2009-02-13T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by John Gibb

Artificial flowers are imitations of real flowers. They have been available for many years. Many people prefer these flowers for maintenance reasons. You don't have to water them, and they can often look just as nice as real flowers.

A variety of materials have been used to manufacture artificial flowers, and this has changed over time. The most recent materials used for these types of flowers are carved or foam soap, nylon netting, ground clay, and mass produced plastic mouldings.

Let's take a look at some of the different types of artificial flowers:

Cloth and paper flowers

These are made by cutting up various fabrics and materials and made in to shapes that can be used to form the leaves and petals etc. Die is used for the veins of the leaves. The petals and other parts of the flowers are then assembled. Finally, a stork is used to mount the flower on. A suitable coloured material is used to set the whole artificial flower off.

Clay flowers

The clay is dried to form a powder, water is then added and a specific colouring to set the flower off. A paste is then used as modelling paste to set the desired shape. Normally a skilled crafts man will model the shape in to form.

Plastic flowers

Mass production is used which moulds each artificial flower. This how you can get identical artificial flowers mass produced in high volumes. Businesses normally take this route to sell as many flowers as they can in high volumes.

Our website offers articles on different types of flowers, specifically artificial flowers. Be sure to check us out for all the information you will ever need relating to artificial flowers.

John Gibb is the owner of Artificial flower resources For more information on artificial flowers check out http://www.Artificial-flowers-resources.info

A Bunch Of Luau Ideas And Activities

2009-02-12T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

You've got a Luau party planned and are looking for some great ideas and activities so that the guests don't end up bored to death. Well there are lots of party ideas out there and here are just a few to get you started.

The Cocoanut Game is a little race that will leave guests tripping all over themselves. Have the contestant's line up in front of cocoanuts on the ground. They must all try to pick up a cocoanut with their knees and hold it between their legs as they waddle to a predetermined finish line. Anyone who drops their cocoanut must pick it back up in order to continue onward. The first to the finish line with their cocoanut is the winner.

For the couples there's the Blind Lei Me Game. Get all the couples in the party together and blind fold one of them while having the partners form a circle around the blindfolded players so no one wanders away from the party by accident. Each of the blindfolded players has a Lei and they must wander slowly around the inside of the circle feeling for their partner. Partners can't help by talking or giving a sign. When the player thinks they've found their partner they place their lei over the other persons head. When everyone has been Leid, tell the players to take off their blindfolds and see who they've just leid.

The Hawaiian Belly Hula Dance is a great and terribly funny game, but you need several guys with large bellies who are good sports to make it work. Have them take off their shirts and give them all grass skirts to wear and leis or headdresses to wear. Then you can be a sport too and lead them all in your own made up Belly Hula. Guests can observer and later vote on who Hula's the best.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Free Party Games to help complete your event. Luau Party Supplies, decorations, favors, paper goods, centerpieces and scene setters. Plus, free party games, printable activities, coloring pages, word find to help complete your event.

A Wish List From Mom To Dad

2009-02-12T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Tammy Pinarbasi

Here is just a little wish list I put together for you. First, I feel I should tell you that I greatly appreciate all that you do for me and our family. Feel free to grant any or all of my wishes time permitting. They can be fulfilled in any order. I will gladly accept them on any given day. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday to grant any of the following:

A thorough house cleaning preferably when the house is dirty. I will gladly show you where the cleaning supplies are kept and will provide a detailed list for you if needed.

A night out. Just about any activity will do. This would include everything from a simple picnic to a night on the town. Oh, I almost forgot, no kids. So you will need to arrange for a sitter.

A few diaper changes. For the baby of course, I'm past that stage. If you really want to impress me, you can change a few of the pooh pooh ones. That would be great!

An occasional morning to catch up on my beauty sleep. So I can remain the beautiful woman you adore. This can be arranged around your days off of work.

A night free of dinner duty and clean up. I trust you, so anything you decide to prepare will do just fine. I know you wouldn't even consider serving me a TV dinner. And don't worry about getting dish pan hands from the clean up. I use a wonderful dish soap that will moisturize your hands while doing dishes.

A couple of late night feedings would be nice. Not for me, I'm watching my weight. But, the baby is known to wake up a time or two hungry for a late night snack.

A bedtime round up. This would consist of rounding up all the munchkins and getting them tucked in their beds. Really its good exercise. All the repeated trips to the restroom and the kitchen for last minute drinks. A thank-you for a job well done. It really boosts my self esteem and shows me how much you appreciate all that I do. Now this was just a small list. Feel free to add anything to it or repeat any of my wishes. I will accept most graciously.

Love, Me

This article was written by Tammy Pinarbasi, Owner of the Parent Super Site, http://www.parentsupersite.com. You are welcome to use this article, but please link back to this site. Thank you...!

Environmentallyfriendly Earth Homes

2009-02-11T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by C. Bailey-Lloyd

What are "Earth Homes?" Earth homes are houses that are basically constructed from the earth. Some earth homes are built from adobe, mud, straw or even underground as an earth-sheltered home. Environmentally friendly, earth homes are easy to warm and cool and extremely energy efficient.

Adobe Earth homes are houses constructed from bricks comprised of tightly compacted earth, clay and straw. Adobe earth homes can be naturally waterproofed by using fermented cactus juice!

Earth sheltered earth homes are houses the are constructed underground - or at least mostly beneath the ground surface. Surrounding soil is a superp and nautral insulation which makes these homes cheap to heat and cool. Usually installed in a well-drained hillside, earth sheltered homes have a skylight window that can fill the home with natural sunlight. Although costs may run a bit higher than conventional home construction, earth sheltered homes are a good, long-term investment as lowered maintenance and energy savings make up the difference.

Straw Bale earth homes are making a comeback as well. Straw bale earth homes are obviously constructed of straw and grass, are energy efficient, and can cut material building costs by as much as fifty percent.

Earth homes, such as Cob Houses are built from clay-type lumps of soil, sand and straw. Similar to the adobe homes, except cob earth homes do not use bricks or blocks. Cob homes have walls that are sculpted into smooth forms. Again, very energy efficient, cob homes are well-suited for the very cold climates and deserts.

Rammed earth homes may have over 18-inch, thick walls that are made from a comcination of dirt, sand, cement and water. Energy conservative, rammed earth homes have the appearance of bungalow-style charm and help keep the house warm in winter and cool in the summer. Additionally, rammed earth homes may last hundreds of years.

Why build an earth home? Earth homes conserve energy, and in most cases are easier to maintain and can endure for years to come. An excellent site to visit on earth homes: www.hobbithomes.ca This particular site even has a recipe for building your own "cob" earth home, as well as other projects.

As we embark on a strange, new age and global warming continuously on the rise, doesn't it make sense to construct your new custom home as an earth home?

About the Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd - Author of "Somewhere Along the Beaten Path"

Feel free to visit Media Positive Radio -- Providing a positive and uplifting listening experience - All the Time! Featuring the finest music from Independent and Mainstream musicians all focusing on the power and greatness of every individual as well as the collective power of unity and brotherhood.

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Its Time To Relocate When

2009-02-11T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Jeffrey Hauser

you spend most of your time daydreaming about anywhere other than where you're living now. I know I did. In my case, it was a case of cold feet. No, really. My feet were freezing. I should explain.

I was living in central New Jersey and it was a typical February day. The temperature was near 20 and I was getting ready to go to work. I noticed that the kitchen garbage bin was full and decided to take it out. I went to the back porch, next to where we kept the large metal trash can. I got onto the small landing and took a single step down. That's when I did my best imitation of a winter Olympic athlete doing a one and half forward roll with a two and a half twist. I landed on my right hip in a pile at the bottom of the short flight of concrete steps, in a slight daze. My still slipper-covered feet were frozen (I told you so!) and I slowly got up to examine the scene of the crime. It appeared that the steps were coated with a thin, invisible layer of, as we Easterners loving called it, 'black ice.' Obviously, I never saw it coming and, therefore, never had a chance.

I dragged my ailing body back inside and told my wife I just had a near-death experience simply trying to take out the trash. She saw how serious this was and we both decided to discuss it after work, for which I was now running late.

That evening, we made the fateful decision to find a new home where we could stay warm and ice-free, year round. We popped open a nationwide map and picked a few sun-belt areas to consider. A month later, we were flying to Phoenix, Arizona for the beginning of a weeklong exploration. We started there, went on to San Diego and finally, Los Angeles. After a few more visits, we settled on Scottsdale, Arizona. That was thirty years ago. The most exciting event occurred when we sold our house in New Jersey and I left my snow shovel in the garage, knowing I would never need it again.

Moving away wasn't as easy as it sounds. We had to give up jobs, family, friends, and familiar surroundings. But we gained a whole new life filled with sunny days, mountains, palm trees, open spaces, and a modern, thriving desert city. It was the best move we ever made. Now, we're considering another move to the San Diego area, somewhere along the beach. Because we work out of the house running a web-based business, "The Nurse's Choice,"a health information site, we could live anywhere. The point is, you control your own destiny and where you live. If you really want a new lifestyle, you should do everything in your power to make it happen. Consider your individual circumstances, like we did. Are you actually happy where you are living? Then see if you can relate to these reasons for moving.

It's Time to Relocate When

(1) You spend most of the year planning that one vacation to that perfect place.

(2) You are jealous of that relative living in (fill the blank, i.e., Florida, Hawaii).

(3) You hate the winters.

(4) You hate the summers.

(5) You hate the place year-round.

(6) You hate the traffic, pollution, population density or any other condition.

(7) You hate the high cost of living.

(8) You hate the small-town atmosphere.

(9) You hate the large city that's, at times, overwhelming.

(10) You yearn for more peace and serenity.

(11) You need to escape your relatives, permanently.

(12) You need to escape from your ex-spouse, permanently.

Or make up you own reason, because I'm sure it's a good one. So, if I've convinced you to consider a move, what's next? You take a vacation, of course. Choose a few candidates and survey the potential locations. Check out the housing, employment opportunities, shopping, schools, lifestyle, roadways, churches, or whatever is your primary concern. Then decide on a timeline for making the move all together. It's time to get serious about finding your new home. Perhaps you're nearing retirement or just fed up. Either way, you must agree it's a worthwhile investment in your future. So stop dreaming and just do it!

Jeffrey Hauser was a sales consultant for the Bell System Yellow Pages for nearly 25 years. He graduated from Pratt Institute with a BFA in Advertising and has a Master's Degree from Monmouth University. He had his own advertising agency in Scottsdale, Arizona and ran a consulting and design firm, ABC Advertising. He has authored 6 books and a novel, "Pursuit of the Phoenix," available at amazon.com. His latest book is, "Inside the Yellow Pages." Currently, he is the Marketing Director for thenurseschoice.com, a Health Information and Doctor Referral site.

Real Shortstops Dont Chew Their Gloves

2009-02-10T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Duane Shinn

Growing up with an older brother (Garland) and two order cousins (Earle and Harvey) who lived across the garden from us meant that I often was assigned to the more inconsequential roles in games and sports. For example, all us neighbor kids played baseball in a clearing in our orchard actually, the clearing was the infield, and any ball hit out of the infield went into the orchard. I was stationed to the right of 2nd base where a pear tree grew about 10 feet behind the bag. I positioned myself securely behind the trunk, placed my teeth firmly into the thumb of my baseball glove, and prayed "Dear God, don't let the ball come to me". I kid you not I still have that glove, complete with the tooth marks of a seven-year-old.

If I ever ventured forth from the safely of that spot in the crotch of that comforting old pear tree, I have no memory of it. I think I played out several seasons in that position, which might partially explain why later, when I went out for high school baseball, I was less than awesome. I tried to play shortstop like a normal person, but when you're used to a pear tree shielding you from hard ground balls and line drives, it's hard to get accustomed to standing out in the open. I tried hard; too, not to bite my glove, but the taste of leather seemed so soothing that it was a temptation I found difficult to resist.

My baseball career came to a crashing halt when I was playing for the 8th grade team at E.V. Cain Elementary School. It was a pop fly to the infield, and the 2nd baseman and I both called for the ball, then collided, allowing the ball to drop untouched by human hands, in turn allowing the winning run to score. The incident itself was common enough, but when really teed off my coach was that I apparently had the thumb of my glove in my mouth while I was looking up at the ball.

"Shinn, I can't believe you had your glove in your mouth! If you need to suck your thumb, find someplace else to do it. A baseball field is not the place."

I suppose that's why I took up the trombone. Nobody yells at you when you have a mouthpiece in or around your mouth, and I didn't have to worry about line drives or collisions with other band members. Besides, my big brother Garland played the trombone, and he helped me get started. Tommy Dorsey was big in those days, and he played a piece titled "Tromboneology" that Garland was learning, and that intrigued me, too, with its' clever and jazzy moves. I visualized myself up on the bandstand, adoring fans staring at me in starry-eyed adulation, playing the great swing tunes of the day. I improvised deftly through the multi-faceted chord changes of Cherokee, and then suavely broke into the smoothest version of Stardust you could imagine. The crowd went wild. I could hardly finish my solo before the thunderous applause drowned out the band.

My fantasy-dream was rudely interrupted by the annoyed voice of Mr. Newcomb, my 8th grade band director.

"Shinn, what in the world are you doing? The rest of us are playing "Stars And Stripes Forever." Would you care to join us?"

The rest of my trombone career went somewhat better. In high school I worked my way up to 3rd chair, sitting behind Sybil McKenna, the excellent fat first chair, and Ola Lee Murchison, the 6' 6" skinny multi-talented athlete and 2nd chair (who went on to play football for that new expansion team, the Dallas Cowboys), and ahead of a friend named Gary, who wasn't much in music but later saved me from flunking chemistry by cramming me full of formulas the night before the final. Even if we hadn't sat in that order, you could always tell who the best trombonists were, as the eyeballs of the rest of us would be titled toward them seeing what position their slides were in. Trombonists can't turn their heads without moving their slides, so eyeballs had to swivel dramatically to the left or right, depending upon where the superior trombonists were sitting. But since we sat in the order of our ability, all eyeballs of the entire section were leaning left, toward the first and second chairs. I was the closest to the only two trombonists who could read music, so I would watch Ola's slide, Gary would watch my slide, and so on down the line. Our director once suggested that we would save on eyestrain if we learned to read the notes ourselves, an idea that had not occurred to us until then. I worked on that some, but found Ola's hand a more direct route to the correct note. Nevertheless, between note reading and eyes-left-to-Ola's-slide-reading, I did pretty well in high school band. Well enough, in fact, that by my senior year I was selected as the third most likely band member to succeed. A buddy named Mike, a wonderful tenor sax player, was chosen as most likely to succeed, followed by Ola. And while we certainly appreciated the selections at the time, they turned out to be fairly inaccurate. Neither Mike nor Ola nor I play our instruments much anymore, but a kid who nobody noticed and played oboe the only oboe in our band now plays with the Portland Symphony. Funny how things change as time goes by.

In our band building were a series of small practice rooms, with little windows in each door so that you could look in to see if the room was occupied. All sorts of wild and wonderful things went on in those little rooms, including the conjugation of Latin verbs to the tune of the 1st three notes of Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C# Minor. "Vini, vidi, vinos" we would sing in unison, and then laugh so hard we thought we would throw up. Mr. Walker, the bachelor choir leader, never thought it was funny, however, and we often found ourselves ejected from the practice rooms. It was a wonderful learning aid for Latin, however, and the "B" that I got from Miss Estes owed a great deal to those musical conjugations.

Duane Shinn is the author of over 500 music books and music educational materials such as DVD's, CD's, musical games for kids, chord charts, musical software, and piano lesson instructional courses for adults. His book-CD-DVD course titled "How To Play Chord Piano In Ten Days!" has sold over 100,000 copies around the world. He holds advanced degrees from Southern Oregon University and was the founder of Piano University in Southern Oregon. He is the author of the popular free 101-week online e-mail newsletter titled "Amazing Secrets Of Exciting Piano Chords & Sizzling Chord Progressions" with over 70,000 current subscribers.

Preventing Fire Damage In The Kitchen

2009-02-10T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Jonathan Meyer

The kitchen is one of the most dangerous rooms in your house as it contains many hazards and a high potential for unintentional fires.

Frying Pans and Deep Fry Pans

Using a thermostat controlled fryer is a great way to prevent deep fry pans fires. Avoid fat and grease build up on the stove or pans because fat and grease can easily catch fire.

Oven and Stove

The oven and range must be cleaned often to prevent grease and food from catching fire. Be careful when you cook and keep pot handles away from the edge of the stove. Don't wear long sleeves that can hang over the stove and catch fire. Always look on the oven when it is on and don't forget to turn it off when not in use. Place flammable fabrics, such as towels, away from the gas or electric range. Be careful with flammable liquids such as cleaning materials.

Appliances

The most important safety rule for appliances is to use only appliances that have been tested and approved by a testing facility. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and check for worn or broken wiring on a regular basis. If you find defects be sure to make necessary repairs immediately. It is also very important to keep appliance cords on the counter to prevent them from, accidentally, being pulled down.

Microwave Ovens

A very common mistake regarding microwave ovens is the wrong assumption that items, heated in the microwave oven, are not as hot as items heated in a regular oven or a mini oven. Keep in mind that even though the container does not heat, the content does. Be sure all the vents are cleared of obstructions and that the microwave oven has an adequate clearance for air circulation. Never place aluminum foil or other metals in a microwave oven.

Jonathan Meyer is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS, a leading restoration services provider for water and fire damages. To learn more about water damage restoration, visit http://restorationsos.com or call 1-877-767-2407

The Benefits Of Home Care For The Disabled In The Uk

2009-02-09T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Roger Huxtable

Home care for the disabled in the UK enables people with physical disabilities to live in their own homes. This gives them a greater sense of freedom and wellbeing than they would experience in a health facility.

UK Disability Statistics

It is estimated that 1 in 7 of the UK population has some form of physical disability. Recent figures suggest that:

A quarter of a million people in the UK used wheelchairs
1.57 million people in the UK have hearing difficulties
55,000 people in the UK are registered as being deaf
157,000 people in the UK are registered as being blind

On top of these figures, there are a number of people in the UK who have hidden disabilities. For instance:

1.8 million people in the UK have diabetes
Over 350,000 people in the UK have epilepsy

Home Care for the Disabled in the UK

Although many people who have physical disabilities are able to look after themselves, a number of them rely on help from others.

Home care for the disabled in the UK helps disabled people who need support, live in their own homes. Some people with physical disabilities receive help from their family or friends. However, there are many who do not have this option.

Home care for the disabled in the UK falls into two main categories; respite care and supported living.

Respite carers take over from the friend or family member who has primary responsibility for looking after the disabled person. This can be because the main carer is temporarily incapacitated or because he or she simply needs a break.

Supported living usually takes place when a disabled person has been discharged from hospital and has short term care needs. However, it can also take place on a longer term basis.

Home care workers for the disabled help out in a number of ways. They can do housekeeping and also carry out routine personal care roles as well as health related services.

Quality Care offers Quality Care offers Home Care and Supported Living for People with Physical Disabilities in Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire

Air Mattress For Those Visiting Your Home

2009-02-08T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Hilde Berge

An air mattress is one that you can use to put more visitors to bed in your home. An air mattress is comfortable to sleep on, and can hold up to three children or two adults comfortably. Many types of air mattresses are available for you to choose from, for the single type bed, or for the double bed. You can put an air mattress on floor in the living room, in the bedroom, and add additional people to your home with comfort and without a problem.

An air mattress is going to require enough space on the floor to be spread out, filled with air, and then it needs to be in an area that will be quiet and dark for someone to sleep on. Many times, when you get unexpected visitors you will find it difficult to ask them to sleep in a motel because it can be so expensive. Putting an air mattress on the floor is going to allow every one the peace of mind, and the ease of spending time together without having to pay a lot of money.

If you are going to stay somewhere else, and you are not sure if there is room for you to sleep in a bed, but you don't want to sleep on the floor, take along an air mattress so you can sleep anywhere, in any room without having to pay a lot of money for a hotel or motel. If you are spending the night at your child's house, or at a relative's house that lives out of state, an air mattress is going to provide just what you need for a bit of comfort and peace of mind at the same time.

Where else can you use an air mattress? You can also put an air mattress to good use when you are out camping and you don't want to sleep on the ground. If you are taking a long trip in the camper, you can use the air mattress to create additional sleeping areas for all types of people who are traveling with you with out having to stop for the night at a hotel.

When you are out at the drive in, and you are going to be watching movies all night long, the air mattress is going to be the perfect seat in the field, as you are comfortable and you can lie to watch the movie.

No matter where you are heading off to, an air mattress is going to give you the comforts of a bed, without having to actually have a bed. An air mattress can be folded up and stored in a small area, about the size of a large book. An air mattress is going to give you the sleep you need without an achy back.

Article written by Hilde Berge, Norway. More information at: http://www.air-mattress.biz

Helpful Moving Advice

2009-02-08T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Lou Ross

The key to moving is trying to do it as efficiently as possible. Here is some advice to make that move just a bit more bearable than you would expect.

Helpful Moving Advice

Moving is a necessary part of everyone's life. Whether you're moving out of your parents' home for the first time, into a house from an apartment, or relocating clear across the country; moving is an experience that can be both stressful and hectic. While you may not relish the idea of having to pack up all of your belongings and transfer them to a new location, moving doesn't have to be a horrible chore. If you take the time, you can streamline your move and make it much easier.

One of the first things to do is to actually make a list of box contents for your move. Keep a sheet of paper or notebook handy while you're packing boxes and containers so you can make a list of what you're putting in each box, and more importantly, where you're putting the box once it's finished. A good way to create this list is by numbering your boxes, instead of simply marking them with the name of the room they're from such as "kitchen" or "bedroom". Then, on your box list, write down the number of the box along with a semi-detailed description of what's in it. For example, instead of writing down that box #2 has dishes in it, write down that it contains coffee mugs and plates that way, you'll know exactly what box to open when you're looking for a specific item.

Another thing that you should make has to do with things you must accomplish before and after you've moved into your new home. Take the time to write down informational numbers such as those for your local utilities and services, and go through your checklist carefully so you can be sure your new home will have all of the electricity, telephone and other necessities activated before you actually live there. A similar checklist should be made for the home you're moving from; so you can be sure to cancel all of the services that were in place at your former residence. Make sure you remember to forward your mail well ahead of time so it actually shows up before bills are overdue.

There are many other steps you can take to simplify the moving process. Getting organized at the outset may take a bit more time, but you will be happy you took the time once you are in your new place and need to find something.

Lou Ross is with MovingCompaniesforYou.com - a directory of moving companies with helpful advice on moving issues.

The Five Keys To Powerful Partnerships

2009-02-07T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Paul Cutright

Partnerships are intentional relationships between two or more people who want to create a future together. That future could be anything from a life long marriage to a business partnership to a short-term project. Your partnerships are among the most important relationships you will ever have. And, like all our relationships, they are vulnerable to misunderstandings, miscommunications, upsets and breakdowns. It's just that there is often much more at stake in our partnerships.

There are five keys necessary to unlock the potential of your most important relationships, turning them into powerful partnerships. They are:

1. Practicing "High Performance" Communication

2. Having a working knowledge of the 5 Stages of Relationship

3. Using a "Design Model" for your partnership

4. Practicing "Radical Personal Responsibility"

5. Committing to using your partnership for conscious evolution

1. High Performance Communication

Our definition of "high performance" communication is communication that is honest, compassionate, direct and honors the dignity of everyone involved.

Relationships live in language. That means that the quality of your regular, everyday communication determines the quality of your relationships. Your communication is not just the words you say; it is how you say those words. The result you get in your communication with others is determined by your intention. Your intention is the superior force in any communication because your intention, conscious or unconscious, is the "carrier wave" for the words. People will usually respond to the energy with which you say something more than the words you say. Powerful communication is congruent, meaning the words you say are consistent with your emotions and your intention.

Another, often overlooked, part of communication is listening. As the listener, you have the power to influence the quality of a conversation by how you listen. Have you ever been in a conversation in which the person to whom you were speaking was not listening, or distracted, or thinking about something else entirely -like what they wanted to talk about? How did that make you feel? Have you ever done that with anyone? How does it feel to have someone's complete and undivided attention when you are speaking? How you listen to another, especially your partners, can have a direct affect on their self-esteem and their sense of value. The quality of your communication determines whether you feel connected or not.

We have written an entire book about "high performance" communication called Straight From the Heart. You can have a look at it at our website at www.PaulandLayne.com/bookstore/communication.htm.

2. Have a Working Knowledge of the Five Stages of Relationship

The second key to powerful partnerships is having a working knowledge of the five stages of relationship. The five stages are Attraction, Power Struggle, Cooperation, Synergy and Completion.

The most problematic stages for most people are Power Struggle and Completion. People often ask us if the Power Struggle stage is necessary. Who wouldn't want to avoid power struggle? People don't exactly jump up and down with excitement when they enter that stage, like they might in the attraction stage! The Power Struggle stage is necessary in that it is all about building trust. And trust is necessary if a relationship is to mature. Power Struggle isn't bad, it's just inevitable, predictable, unavoidable and recurrent. That is, it happens more than once in any long-term relationship. Why? Because each time you increase the commitment in a relationship, e.g., investing more time, money, emotion, etc., more trust is required. Whenever more trust is required, you will temporarily revisit Power Struggle.

The other problematic stage is completion. Everything that is created has a beginning, middle and end. And that includes your partnerships.

There are four ways partnerships end:

1. death

2. slowly drifting apart

3. abrupt expulsion

4. consciously

The first is obvious, as when one of the partners dies. The second is when partners may be separated by geography, time, interests or what-have-you. They find little in common to sustain the partnership. The third occurs with an apparently irreconcilable upset and the partnership is abruptly ended, usually with very bad feelings.

Obviously, the most desirable of the four is consciously, but most people don't know how to do that. Conscious completion involves acknowledging what you have learned from the partnership, what you have contributed to the partnership, making any apologies that might be necessary and asking for and extending forgiveness.

Often, completion is about changing the form of the partnership, as in parents who are divorcing. They will no longer be in the form of marriage, but they will continue to be partners at some level in co-parenting their children. In this case, conscious completion is very important for developing or maintaining mutual respect, dignity and caring in the partnership.

There are particular skills to learn and master for each of the five stages and specific things to avoid. We suggest you download and print out the five stages article and read through the skills for each stage, checking off the ones you know you need to work on. This will give you a personalized curriculum for being able to master relationships and help you to create powerful partnerships.

3. Using a Design Model

Would you even consider building a house without an architect and a blueprint? You wouldn't get some wood, nails and a hammer and just start putting something together and hope it turned into a house you would want to live in, would you? People do the equivalent with their partnerships all the time. They "believe" it will work out because it just "feels" right. Most people leave the success of their most important relationships up to chance and luck, in the hope that it will turn out. But, of course, it seldom does and then they are left wondering, "What did I do wrong?"

Clearly, love and/or good intentions are not enough to guarantee success in your partnerships. In addition to those things, you also need a strong measure of education and skill education about what it takes to have relationships succeed, and skill in standard practices of success. It also helps to have a good coach to help you out along the way in applying your knowledge and developing your practices.

Here is a simple 3 part model we have found to be extremely effective for designing partnerships.

Purpose Results Form

First, be clear on the purpose of your partnership. You can get to that by asking "why?" why are we in this partnership? Purpose determines the direction you are going in. Purpose statements are best kept simple and general. Then, write out the results you want to accomplish. Those could be feelings, experiences, products or services, depending on the nature of the partnership. This is where you get specific. Results are the "what". Look to see if the results you want in your partnership are consistent with your purpose. If they aren't, then you know you will have trouble down the road. Last, determine the best form to serve your purpose that will help you achieve your desired results. Some examples of forms of relationship are friends, teammates, business colleagues, business partners, dating, engagement, marriage. Form is tied to the roles you play in your life. Form is all about "how" you will achieve your desired results and ongoingly fulfill your purpose.

Here is an example of what this might look like. Take two people who are attracted to each other romantically and are falling in love. They start talking about building a future together. If they were to use this design model, they would have deep conversations about the purpose of their relationship. They may decide their purpose is simply to bring out the best in each other. The kinds of results they want to experience in their relationship could include fun, laughter, deep, heart-felt sharing, travel, time apart, creativity, sexual pleasure, intellectual stimulation and community involvement. They would then have conversations about what the best form might be to accomplish those results, given their purpose. One of the important things to remember about form is that form changes. If the couple in our example is having these conversations as the level of serious dating, they may look at "going steady" and being monogamous. Or if they are further along in their relationship, they may consider being engaged. All of these are forms, and they change over time as commitment deepens and trust is developed.

4. Practicing Radical Personal Responsibility

Here is something that is very important to understand. Upsets, disagreements, misunderstandings, miscommunications and breakdowns are inevitable, predictable and unavoidable in your partnerships. Now, why in the world would we say something like that? What about positive thinking? Just look into your own experience. Haven't you had upsets and disagreements despite your best intentions and despite your positive thinking? Unfortunately, good intentions and positive thinking are not enough to avoid or prevent upsets and misunderstandings. They are a fact of life in human relationships at this stage of our development. What is really required is a new way of interpreting these events. And that requires the knowledge and skill necessary to truly use them as opportunities for healing and spiritual growth.

It is extremely important to have a mutually agreed upon, pre-determined means for handling these things when they occur. If you wait to see how you resolve your upsets when you actually have them, you will be setting yourselves up to lose and possibly making the situation even worse.

We have written a best selling book on this subject called You're Never Upset for the Reason You Think: Secrets and Strategies for Resolving Any Upset Quickly and Easily. You may learn more about it www.PaulandLayne.com/bookstore/conflict.htm.

Now, the fourth and fifth keys work closely together, so we will talk about both of them here. The fifth key is:

5. Using Your Partnerships for Conscious Evolution

What does "conscious evolution mean"? Simply put, it means that you recognize that your partnerships provide you with a powerful opportunity for your personal and spiritual growth. And you can truly take advantage of the opportunities present in your partnerships if you share a commitment to use your relationship with each other for your mutual growth and evolution.

The greatest opportunities for conscious evolution lay your upsets with others and how you handle them. Practicing radical personal responsibility means not blaming your partner or yourself. Rather, you look together to see how you can learn from the upset. This is based upon the idea that you are never upset for the reason that you think, and there is value in looking deeper than the obvious. It is the recognition that most present time upsets are simply an activation of unresolved pain and hurts from the past and that this current upset is truly a healing opportunity.

When you practice high performance communication, when you know where you are within the five stages of partnership, when you are using a proven model to consciously design your partnership to be the way you want it to be, when you can use your present time upsets to help you resolve your unresolved issues from the past, and you and your partner have an agreement to be allies with each other in that process, then you are practicing conscious evolution and living in a powerful partnership.

Layne and Paul Cutright are relationship coaches and teachers who have been offering secrets and strategies for successful relationships at home and in business since 1976. They are authors of the best selling book, You're Never Upset for the Reason You Think Secrets and Strategies for Resolving Any Upset Quickly and Easily. http://www.PaulandLayne.com

Remember Them

2009-02-06T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Douglas Titchmarsh

When you were thinking of starting your online venture, you probably consulted with a group of people we all take for granted. When you started you were probably part time online, and full time working to pay the bills.

That same group of people are now sitting waiting for you to get home from work, do your "online stuff" and all the other things you cram in before they get a look in.

Those people are your family.

If you're married, you probably told your partner of the wonderful future you would have, and how you would have more time to spend with the family. Then you asked for their blessing, and backing before you started in earnest, telling them just a few weeks, a few months max working like a dog when you got home and it was all going to be great. Your family stuck by you when it didn't work first time, they encouraged you and backed you up with their love.

We all want to succeed, but without someone to love, will success and wealth mean anything at all?

Think about it today, It's time to give something back to them now. Make some time for them, and make it quality time. Take time away from the computer, time away from the internet, and really move away from it. Your family love you, and they are making sacrifices too, so you can follow your dreams, but even family has limits, so don't forget them.

Remember Them!

Douglas Titchmarsh is the webmaster at http://www.cashinonline.info and tries to make time for his family between bouts of site promotion. He also maintains blogs at http://www.cashinonline.info/blog and a more personal one at http://www.titchmarsh.com/blog.

How To Keep Old Glory Looking Her Best

2009-02-05T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Paul Mackenda

She's a Grand Old Flag-Keep Her Looking That Way

Our flag is the symbol of our nation and its history, so our government has put into place some laws that govern how it is treated and cared for. This is an important idea, yet most people, even if they've flown it for many years, don't know proper ways to keep, store and treat the flag.

Depending on the material that it's made out of, some flags nowadays can be machine washed. It also depends on its overall condition. For older flags, hand-washing, however, is generally recommended. Washing machine agitators may cause damage to an older flag.If you wash the flag by hand, use a mild detergent such as Woolite. Also make sure to remove the flag from the water as soon as it's clean. Soaking the flag may cause the colors to run and bleed into each other. Dry the flag flat in a warm area. Find a large are to spread it out in. But the most preferred method of cleaning the flag is to dry clean it. Since this is also the most expensive, due to the size of most flags, you may want to save money by washing it. But to keep it looking good, and make sure that it lasts a long time, be sure that take the trouble to wash it properly.

American flags that are in disrepair should be retired and no longer flown. Depending upon the extent of the damage, however, you may be able to perform repairs on your own. If there are small imperfections, sewing on a patch of the same color and texture of the fabric is permitted. These can be purchased in either the Fabric department of a local department store or through a merchant that specifically deals in selling fabrics. For flags that have larger areas of damage or fraying around the edges, the proper steps should be taken to dispose of them and replacement flags should be purchased.

Exposing it to the elements is one of the fastest ways to ruin a flag. The flag will be whipped about and become shredded if you fly the flag in bad weather with snow, rain, sleet, hail or high winds hitting it constantly. The sun can do a great deal of damage by bleaching out the colors, even in good weather. Bring the flag in whenever bad weather threatens, if you can. If it does get wet, bring it in and drape it in an open area to dry thoroughly. Remember to keep it from touching the ground, when you are doing this. The American flag is never permitted to touch the ground, unless it has been retired the ashes are being buried, according to our laws.

If you fly your flag near trees, shrubs and other obstructions or right next to your house, your flag may be easily damaged. Take care the the flag will not be whipping against the house or the trees or shrubs. Mount your flag on a pole that's away from the house and landscaping is the best way you can do this. Or, use a stanchion type flag pole away from the house, branches and wires.

You must make sure that it is completely dry before you store the American flag, then fold it in its proper format and place it in a flag case or protective wrap. All flags should be stored in a cool, dry, dark location. Then they will always look fresh and nice for use in the future. A flag display in a special flag case is the best condition for storage, but this is usually for ceremonial flags.

Always remember that the American flag is special and should be treated as such. From general upkeep, to cleaning, to storage, Old Glory deserves only the best, and the law requires that proper respect be shown at all times.

About The Author
Paul Mackenda operates the website Flag Si, inc. which a site dedicated to researching flag related topics and contains all the very latest flag news and views. For more details please visit http://www.flagsi.com.

Protect Yourself From Eyestrain With Ergonomic Positioning Of Your Computer Monitor

2009-02-04T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Paul Holstein

Take this little home test: Hold your finger at arm's length. Bring it slowly towards your nose, following it with your eyes. Notice that the closer your finger comes, the more eyestrain you feel. That's because you are forcing your eyes to accommodate (change focus) and converge (eyes turning inward to prevent double vision) at a rapid pace.

One of the main reasons for computer-related eyestrain (and back strain) is the proximity of your computer monitor. Thus, it seems easy to understand that, if having the monitor too close contributes to the problem, one of the solutions is to place it farther away (at least 25 inches).

Another main reason for computer-related eyestrain is the angle at which you view your monitor. The latest research suggests that a downward gaze angle (at least 15 degrees) improves our ability to accommodate and converge. Reducing those stresses will reduce the likelihood of eyestrain.

But how can we position our monitors to the optimal position?

As more and more of us upgrade to flat screen monitors, our options have become plentiful, easy to install, and certainly worth every ounce of pain we avoid.

If you're like me and not all that handy, the MOView LCD Monitor Arm (from $119.99, available at Cableorganizer.com) is the perfect choice. Made of quality, durable construction, it's easily installed, attaching quickly to any desk with the included C-clamp. (There's also an optional grommet hole mount, if your desk comes with a grommet.)

Raising a flat panel monitor above work surface, the MOView LCD Monitor Arm enables fingertip adjustment of monitor height and position. It can accommodate screens up to 21 inches and provides infinite viewing angles, which allow you to precisely position how far away your screen is, what angle you're viewing it at, and the tilt of the monitor. An additional, non-ergonomic benefit is that it frees desk space, and looks great, hiding monitor cables from sight with the integrated cord management system.

There's even a double monitor version, with two completely independent, fully articulating arms, allowing you to place two monitors in any positionside by side, stacked one on top of another, or facing in two separate directions.

If you use your computer to view DVDs or episodes of Lost that you downloaded from iTunes, you may want to mount your monitor on the wall for optimal viewing. MOView offers a wall mount (from $49.99; also available at Cableorganizer.com) that comes in two flavors: a flush wall mount and a fully articulating wall mount.

Both attach quickly to a wall stud to allow for maximum space saving, and allow for larger monitorsup to 30 inches. These units are self-leveling, saving you from having to guess whether the monitor is lined-up straight. The MOView wall mount also allows for 360 degrees of rotation, allowing you to align the monitor vertically or horizontally.

MOView's arms and mounts were clearly designed for style-conscious commercial and home office computer users who understand that computing can be done both in comfort and in styleand without all that eyestrain.

Paul Holstein and http://CableOrganizer.com promote wire and cable organization and management for a better lifestyle.

Easy Ways To Protect Your Family Before A Disaster Strikes

2009-02-03T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Laura Greenwald

If you knew that spending 15 minutes right now could save the people you love in the event of an emergency, would you do it? Of course you would!

During disasters like Hurricane Katrina and terrorist attacks like the London bombings, one need has come to the forefront more than any other -- the need to get a victim's identification, medical history and emergency contact information as quickly as possible. The Next of Kin Education Project, Next of Kin Registry and Shoewallet.com have joined forces to launch an international public awareness initiative, featuring ten easy ways anyone can safeguard their family in the event of a life-threatening situation.

At Home

You spend all your time taking care of others, but what about you? If someone had to locate your contacts in a medical emergency, could they do it? Grab your address books (we know you have more than one!), your cell phone, PDA, Filofax and anything else you usually carry with you and let's get organized.

First, let's create a list of emergency information for each member of the family including:

Their name, age, address, phone number

The name of their primary physician

Allergies and any prescription drugs the person is taking

Chronic medical conditions and, anything else you would want an emergency physician to know.

At least three emergency contacts for each person:

1. For yourself, list your spouse's home, cell and work numbers, for your spouse, list your numbers. For your children, both you and your spouse's numbers.
2. Next for each person, the name and contact numbers of a nearby relative or good friend;
3. Then on each list, include the name and numbers of an out of state relative or friend. In case of regional emergency, you can often call long distance, even though you can't call locally. A distant friend can be a touch point for the entire family until communication is restored.

Make several copies of each list and place them:

In an easy to find place near your main home phone

Place each child's list in his permanent school record, in addition to his regular emergency card. Place your and your spouse's list in your personnel files at work with your other emergency information. If you don't feel comfortable having it in your file, consider placing it in a sealed envelope to be opened only in an emergency, or put the information on a password protected CD.

With the person you chose to be your emergency contact.

You can also put this list in your computer, or PDA so you have it with you in an emergency.

Don't forget to ask the people you want to use as contacts, for their permission to use them. Some people might not feel comfortable having to be relied upon in an emergency and it's better to know that now!

Every six months put a reminder in your calendar to review and update all of your emergency plans.

Once you get your own contacts in order, book some time with your parents, kids and the other people that you love, to make sure, in case of a medical emergency involving them, that a hospital knows how to contact you.

Home/Cell Phone

Clearly indicate your emergency contacts on your main telephone speed dial. Don't use the person's name, use their relationship to you, ie. "parents", "sister", "husband", "work". Then do the same thing on your cell phone. After the London bombings a paramedic came up with the idea of putting "ICE" (in case of emergency) on your cell phone, with the number of your emergency contact. You can do that on your cell or simply put in "husband" or "home" like you did above. Make sure you do the same thing on your PDA, laptop or anything else you usually carry.

Protecting Children

In the days after 9/11, 2,100 children were left in daycare because their parents had never indicated on their daycare emergency cards, who should be called, if the parents were unable to get to them to pick them up.

Choose someone you would want them to be with, until you can get to them and make sure that information is on the child's emergency list and on his school's emergency contact card. Since children don't carry wallets or drivers licenses, make sure that you put Shoewallets on younger children (see information later in this article) and that older children have emergency information in their backpack, on their cell phone or anything else they carry with them.

Emergency Plan

Make sure each member of the family knows what to do in an emergency, especially if you can't get back home, or if your home is uninhabitable.

Appoint a special place for everyone to meet away from home, and make sure everyone knows who your out of state point of contact is, in case you need to relay messages to each other. Keep that plan with the emergency lists, in an easy-to-find place. Some families have even put their emergency plans on wallet-sized cards, one for each member of the family.

Safeguarding Copies of Vital Information

As victims of Hurricane Katrina found, when you have to function after a major disaster, being without your driver's license, birth certificate, social security card or bank account numbers can be a huge problem.

Make a copy of all of your and your children's vital records and put them in bank safe deposit box or other secure place, preferably in two different locations. One of them should be in another city or state if possible.

If you're concerned about the security of hard copy documents, scan them onto a password protected CD, and store those instead of the hard copies.

Away From Home

Thousands of people a year end up as trauma patients in the emergency room after being hit by a car while crossing the street near their home or while jogging. So carrying contact information with you while you're walking or jogging isn't just a good idea, it's as necessary as your running shoes! Most accidents happen just a few blocks from home, just where people feel comfortable doing errands or going out for a run without their driver's license or other ID.

A Shoewallet, a small lightweight wallet you attach to your shoes, holds an emergency contact card, and a license/credit card/key, guaranteeing your info is always right where you need it. www.shoewallet.com/nokep

If you have a company ID badge, slip an emergency contact card into it for those quick runs out of the office for meetings or a snack.

Another way to make sure hospitals and emergency personnel can find your next of kin in an emergency, is to register your contact information free of charge at the Next of Kin Registry. NOKR is an internationally recognized resource designed to put you and your family together in case you are unconscious or unable to speak or give consent for treatment. www.nokr.org

Special Needs

If you or your family members have chronic medical conditions, you need to make your medical history and records easy to find in an emergency. OnFile.com is a service that, for a yearly fee, gives you a secure, password-protected cards that can supply any hospital with all of your medical records in seconds, allowing any physician to treat you with your medical history and special needs in mind, even if you're away from home. www.onfile.com

Cap Med's Personal Health Key is a flash drive specifically designed to hold your entire medical record, allowing it to be viewed in a hospital or doctor's office. This is great for people who see many doctors and can help keep everything in sync among all your care providers. It also keeps patients from having to tote around their records or explain the same points over and over again.

For the seniors in your life, make a plan for you and your relatives to take turns checking in with them every other day, to make sure everything is all right. It might also be a good idea to invest in an emergency monitoring system with a button they can press in case of a fall or other emergency.

For Alzheimer's patients, those with dementia or the mentally disabled you might have to use a combination of these tips. A Shoewallet would provide emergency ID in a place the patient won't be able to disturb. The Alzheimer's Association has a wonderful program called "Safe Return, which provides a bracelet and special tips in protecting patients who wander. And signing the person up on the Next of Kin Registry, gives an extra layer of protection in case they become lost or hurt.

Making Hospitals Safer

As much as they try, hospital emergency rooms don't always have time to call unconscious patient's next of kin as quickly as they'd like. For hospitals and emergency department personnel, there's a great tool to use, to help them find emergency contact information and make notification calls quickly and easily in seven steps. The Seven Steps to Successful Notification Kit. It's being distributed free of charge to health care professionals. To help the effort financially, or to purchase Seven Steps products please visit the web site: http://clik.to/7steps .

A piece of healthcare legislation called the Next of Kin bill (HR 2560) has just been introduced into Congress, that will ensure hospitals will make a reasonable effort to contact unconscious patient's next of kin within 24 hours. For ways you can help make this bill a law, go to http://clik.to/nok .

Laura and Janet Greenwald, are the founders of The Next of Kin Education Project
To download a free copy of these Emergency Tips or for more information go to: http://nokep.tripod.com/fmp.htm.

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Relocating

2009-02-02T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Ross Bainbridge

Relocating is the act of moving residence from one place to another. Individuals, families and even businesses relocate for varied reasons. People move to better homes and seek better neighborhoods. Some desire to start over a whole new life, while others search for better economic opportunities. Businesses also relocate to overcome a shortage of skills or gain greater tax benefits.

U. S. Census Bureau estimates show that nearly 43 million people in the United States move every year. This accounts for roughly 16 percent of the population. 56 percent of the 43 million move within the same county, while 19 percent move between states. Research shows that young adults were more likely to move than older people. Single and divorced people were more inclined to relocate than those who are widowed.

Within the United States, white non-Hispanics had the lowest moving rate at 19 percent. Blacks that relocate constitute 19 percent, while 20 percent of Asians and Hispanics were likely to relocate.

The reasons for moving differ according to age, race, social and economic status. People living in rented units have more reason to relocate compared to homeowners and comprise around 52 percent of movers in the United States. A change in family status is also a primary motivating factor. About 25% of people in the United States relocate due to family related reasons like marriage or family expansion. 31% seek better economic opportunities and move for work related reasons.

Education is an important factor in the decision to move. Many seek higher education, the motivating factor behind better employment opportunities. The greater an individual's level of education, the greater would be the likelihood of moving for work-related reasons.

Relocation can be an exciting time for many. The mystery of a new environment and the prospects of a better life head can trigger off a new lease of life.

Relocating provides detailed information on Relocating, Relocating To Las Vegas, Relocating Tips, Relocating Overseas and more. Relocating is affiliated with NYC Moving and Storage.

14 Tips To Make Moving Day Easier

2009-02-01T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Carole Pagan

It's that time of year again for a lot of us. Here are some tips to make your moving day less painful, both mentally and physically.

1. Lighten the load. Dispose of as much as possible before you start to pack. Donate to charity, have a yard sale or throw out.

2. Use the same size boxes. They will be easier to stack both while you are packing, and in the truck. No more spending time trying to figure out how to get all those different sized boxes stacked so they won't fall over.

3. Use smaller boxes. Then you won't have big heavy boxes that will wear you out fast. You, and your moving team will be able to keep going without struggling.

4. Use a good quality tape and tape gun. The couple extra bucks will save you tons of frustration.

5. A couple of wardrobe boxes are always a good idea. They keep your clothes clean and ready to hang. Plus, you can throw boots, shoes, and purses in the bottom.

6. Before wrapping your figures in newspaper, put them in a plastic shopping bag. It will keep them clean. A paper towel will work with smaller items.

7. Always write the room the box goes into on the outside of the box so your movers or helpers can deposit the boxes without you having to play traffic cop all day.

8. Write a description of what's in the box so you can find things easily. If you are using recycled boxes (always a good idea), tape a sheet of paper on the outside to make a nice clean readable label.

9. When packing clothes, sheets, towels and such, put a plastic garbage bag in the box first, then place the items in the plastic bag. This works for pots and pans too. Then you won't have to rewash them when you unpack. Throw a fabric softener sheet into the bag of clothes and linens before you close it up to keep them smelling nice.

10. Pack the items you will need the first night in separate boxes and label them so you can get to these things right away without having to go through 20 boxes trying to find things when you're already exhausted.

11. Make sure the beds get set up, and other heavy items are in place. Other things can be moved around later.

12. Old fashioned as it may be let the guys worry about the furniture. Take the girls and let them help you get the cabinets and drawers washed out and your kitchen set up. Then, once the truck is empty - everyone can easily sit down, relax, and have some pizza and beer and conversation.

13. If you packed well, the clothes can go right in the drawers. The sheets and towels can go right into the linen closet. Hanging clothes can go right into the closets. Depending on how ambitious you are, the entertainment center can be set up and books put in bookcases.

14. Take a break - the rest can wait for a little while... Rome wasn't built in a day.

Carole can show you how to keep that new home really clean right from the start. Get your copy of Secret Confessions of a Clean Freak and find out how you can easily keep your new castle gleaming. http://CleanFreak.CommonSenseLiving.com

Are You Looking For Free Crochet Patterns

2009-02-01T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Mike Yeager

If you are in the market for sewing patterns, crochet patterns or quilt patterns you can find them online! Did you know that there are many websites that not only instruct individuals on the techniques of sewing, in all its forms, but that help supply you with the supplies you need? Advice can be found online and so can free patterns!

Are you interested in free cross-stitch patterns? How about free quilt patterns? Maybe you want are looking for crochet ponchos patterns? Maybe you would be interested in free knitting patterns? Whatever you are looking for, you can find it online! There are many that will offer advice to your questions. There are some that sell patterns and some that will tell you where to get them for free! Yes, free. Interested?

To find a website that offers these patterns for free, locate your favorite search engine. An engine like Google or Yahoo will work. Let us say you are looking for free knitting patterns. Type in "free knitting patterns" or just "knitting patterns" in your search box and go! You will undoubtedly receive a bunch of different places to choose from. Browse the list. You may be able to find places that you can go to download the patterns onto your computer to print off later. Forums are places you can join, mostly free of charge, and get to know fellow craftsmen. You will be able to ask questions and get advice. Also, you will get to meet people doing the same things you are. Maybe you will be able to answer their questions! These are great places to find information.

If you don't know what project you want to start, paging through the countless pages on websites will give you many, many options. You will see things you never thought of yourself. You may decide to make something that would look great on your couch or maybe a nice quilt for your friends that are visiting a cabin this winter.

About The Author

Mike Yeager, Publisher - http://www.a1-fabric-4u.com/

mjy610@hotmail.com

Glow Sticks A Great Addition To Any Party

2009-01-31T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

Mostly seen on holidays like The Fourth Of July and Halloween, glow sticks can actually be a fun addition to any party. They are a very versatile item that can be used for almost anything. Here are some ideas for using glow sticks at your next get together:

1. As decorations glow sticks are easy to hang from the ceiling, stick to walls or to make into signs. Since they come in such a wide variety of colors, they will fit with any color scheme.

2. As illumination glow sticks are great for those nighttime parties. All it takes is a little snap and you have a glow to see by. Children can use them at sleepovers as night lights, teens can use them at night time football games, and adults can use them at any night time event, like a concert.

3. As centerpieces glow sticks look great in the middle of tables. You can use them at your next outdoor party to brighten up where your guests will be eating.

4. Just for fun this is the best use for glow sticks. Kids enjoy using them as they would a sparkler: to draw pictures in the air, to wave around, and to light their way. They last a long time and can give a great amount of enjoyment to a young child, whether celebrating a holiday or just because.

Glow sticks are perfectly safe and once they are activated, they stay lit for hours. There are several companies that sell glow sticks in bulk, so you can provide one for everyone attending your party. In addition to glow sticks, there are other products available for celebrations, too. Look for glow bracelets, necklaces, leis, and many more at your local party shop or online retailer.

Give the gift of light give a glow stick.

Koi Varieties Gosanke

2009-01-31T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Mas Ars

Koi Varieties : Gosanke

Koi are descendants of the common carp, Cyprinus Carpio. There are many varieties of Koi. The most popular koi varieties called Gosanke. Gosanke has three varieties, ie Kohaku, Taisho Sanshoku and Showa Sanshoku.

Kohaku is white koi with red pattern (called "hi") or red pattern on white ground. Kohaku has different pattern so its has many name. Nidan is Kohaku with two step pattern, Sandan is three step pattern, Yondan is four step pattern, Inazuma is lighting strike pattern. Taisho Sanshoku is koi with black stepping pattern on kohaku pattern. It is called Taisho Sanshoku because the variety was created in the Taisho era in Japan. It's also called Taisho Sanke or Sanke. A good Sanke will have a good Kohaku Hi pattern and the black pattern must not on the head and not touching the Hi.

Showa Sanshoku is a black koi with red and white pattern. This variety created in the era of Showa in Japan. It's also called Showa Sanshoku or Showa. Different of Sanke and Showa are : showa have black on their head, but Sanke don't has black on their head. Showa is black koi with red and white pattern, Sanke is white koi with red and black pattern.

The Author is mas ars owner of koleksi-koi-lokal.blogspot.com and koi-carp-online.blogspot.com and koi-online.blogspot.com

Confessions Of A Retread Wife

2009-01-30T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Barbara Eastom Bates

My name is Barbara and I am a proud Marine Corps wife. I am the granddaughter of a Korean War Veteran and the daughter of a military brat. Long before meeting my Marine Corps husband I had gypsy feet from my childhood spent with a father who, after growing up in the Navy, could never remain in one place too long. I coveted the stories of my father's youth, growing up on military bases and seeing the world.

Perhaps then it was no surprise to anyone when some years later, I was again charmed by the stories of adventure and ideals of patriotism another man in uniform brought into my life. But despite my initial fascination with the military, when a marriage license and a Budget Truck found me halfway across the country as a new bride of Uncle Sam, I was less than charmed. Oh, my husband still looked just as handsome in his high and tight and Dress Blues, and I was still feeling blissful about being a newlywed, however it did not take long until I decided the Marine Corps and I were just not going to get along.

It was the little things at first. Having grown up in the country on acres of land, it was a surprise to me that families in base housing were herded together in duplexes, triplexes and worse. You could hear the neighbor's television set and their toilet flush! I also soon found my identity was not really Barbara anymore, but the dependent of LCpl Bates. So, dutifully as all military wives do, I memorized my husband's social security number and carried my identification card religiously.

I thought surely my husband was joking when he first explained he would have to routinely stand 24-hour duties away from home. "All night long?!" I asked incredulously. And as if all that were not enough, then came deployments. About a year and a half into our marriage, my husband and I became the proud parents of a beautiful baby boy. A boy, I thought, who needed two parents around to raise him. The Marine Corps however, assured me I could do just fine on my own by sending my husband off on deployments. "Not fair!" I protested. "Can't they see I need him here?" But the Marine Corps needed him more, and off he went.

So it went for almost four years of my life: duty, deployments and the inevitable sick child and mechanical malfunctions that always accompanied them. When my husband's end of active service date approached and talks turned toward the idea of reenlistment, I did not give it a second thought. The Marine Corps was no place to raise a family. It was time to go home.

So, once again, we loaded up our (this time much larger) Budget Truck and headed back to Civilian Town, USA. But, after pulling off the interstate exit to our hometown, instead of the exuberance expected, my husband and I both felt strangely empty.

In the days and weeks that would follow, I reasoned with myself we had simply been so excited about our move back home that the reality of it was destined to pale in comparison.

We rented a house in the country with a big yard and no neighbors nearby. Instead of enjoying the newfound peace and quiet, I woke up in the mornings missing the sound of the children whose delighted screams always echoed from the playground behind our base housing duplex. I missed the comforting sounds of another family living next door, who could always be counted on to lend a cup of milk or good cheer. Shopping trips were no longer to the commissary or the exchange, and the checkout girl at the local Food Lion did not care a thing about seeing my identification card.

My husband and I went to work in civilian jobs and tried to get on with life, but no matter what we did, something just did not feel right. We constantly talked about all our friends and past adventures, and how all the men in our hometown needed haircuts. It did not take long to realize that, although we had taken ourselves out of the Marine Corps, the Marine Corps was not easily going to be taken out of us.

In becoming civilians again, we finally understood what it meant to be military. What we had thought of as only a job ran much deeper. It had become our life. The endless deployments and duty assignments, the nights spent apart, the well worn and unpapered walls of base housing, these were our calling.

As a young military family, we had seen these things as sacrifices to be made. But they were not sacrifices. As a civilian family, we went to work each day wondering if the jobs we were devoting so much of our time to even mattered in the grand scheme of things. In the Marine Corps, we knew we were a part of something that mattered not only to us, but also to the entire world. Instead of a sacrifice, it was an honor to know we set the standard for others by living the core values set forth by our republic long ago in its infancy: honesty, courage, respect, loyalty, dependability and a sense of devotion to God, community and family. As members of the military family, we made a difference; the lives touched by our own, immeasurable. Civilian life just could not compare to that. With a new understanding and sense of humility for our place in life, my husband and I finally knew for certain where we belonged. Shortly thereafter, he reenlisted and we found our way home to the Corps, back to deployments and duty and the utmost sense of pride we had ever found.

Though our time as civilians was short, the lessons it taught were unforgettable. We do not live the military life; it lives in us. It grows in the heart day by day as we share our lives together as military families. It happens as we shop at the commissaries and exchanges, and iron uniforms, sew patches and shine boots. It is a shared sense of pride that bonds us together as family, a family where each and every service member is one of our own, and all of us matter.

As for me, I took the long way around, but I can now say without a doubt, I am a Marine Corps wife, and I am proud. Now would someone please tell my neighbors to turn down their television set?

About The Author

Barbara Eastom Bates is the author of the upcoming release, "Basic Training for Brides-to-Be," and the editor-in-chief of Operation Military Spouse, http://www.operationmilitary.spouse.com. Email: bbates74@comcast.net

The Angry And Sometimes Grumpy Children Of The 1950s

2009-01-29T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Sue And Chuck DeFiore

A bunch of us in our late 40's and early 50's got together the other night, and after the evening was over I started thinking that many of us born in the 1950's are in a crisis stage. People can't understand why we are so angry and grumpy sometimes. This article discusses some of the issues we have with society today and might enlighten others (the younger set) as to why we seem so disillusioned, and out of sorts at times.

The consensus of the group was "is this all there is." We've been working since our teens. A car costs more today than what our parents bought a house for. We work and work and still don't have enough. Food costs have risen astronomically, along with utility costs, insurance costs, and housing costs.

We started laughing at one point and said we sound like our grandparents. However, it is a very sad commentary that what took place for our grandparents over numerous decades, has only taken 20 to 30 years to occur for us. The real scary thing is that salaries for many jobs have not changed over that twenty year period, while our expenses have skyrocketed, and increased one hundred fold.

We all became nostalgic when we talked about the things we used to do to relax. How so many of those things are gone, or we can't afford to do them any longer. Our kids tell us we don't have a clue about school, sex, music, or what's going on in the world. Again, the laughter abounded with the music issues, but became very serious when we talked about the scary things kids do today, that we wouldn't even have thought of when we were growing up. Killing teachers, and other students never entered our minds. We had respect for our teachers and those in charge.

The next thing we ranted about was our health. For some of us, the ravages of time have taken place... eyesight problems, arthritis problems, blood pressure problems, "the barnacles of life". The discussion we had on the cost of health care was a lively and volatile one to say the least. Many of us who have had major illness problems also went ballistic with regards to the social security system, the disability system and Medicare system. The majority of us have worked since our teenage years. We were incredulous when it took over a year to get money from the social security system, especially when we see people playing the system who don't deserve it.

All of us are still working. The majority of our group are either self-employed or independent contractors. Many of us run home-based businesses. While we are still disheartened with the rise in costs, at least our work environment is a happy one, and one we feel in control of. For those in our group still working in corporate America, that's just an additional concern and stress for them. Is their job safe? Will they be downsized? Laid off? We went back and forth on the work issue and found that while running your own business is a risk, we have a lot more control over our destiny than if we worked for someone else, and hence, a lot less stress. Plus we can't fire ourselves.

We all wondered where it will end. So many of us thought we would be retired by now, or at least contemplating it within the next ten to fifteen years. However, with all the medical advances and hundred-fold costs of so many things, that is not an option. Retirement is no longer something people do automatically between 55 and 65. Today, the retirement age is in the 70's.

For many of us, the thought of another twenty or more years of working is a depressing one, in addition to making us very angry and grumpy to say the least.

Hopefully this article will provide some insight to those who wonder why the over 40 generation is so angry and grumpy at times.

Interested in having your own successful, home based creative real estate investing business? Chuck and Sue have been helping folks start successful home based businesses for over 19 years, and we can help you too! To see how, visit http://www.homebusinesssolutions.com for the latest FREE tips and tricks, educational products and coaching in creative real estate investing and home based businesses. No time to visit the site? Subscribe to our "how to" Home Business Solutions Digest, it's like having your own personal coach: mailto:subscribeHBS@homebusinesssolutions.com

Obfuscation Rules The World

2009-01-29T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD

Obfuscationto cloud over; obscure; make dark; or unclear; to muddle; confuse; bewilder. [Webster's New World Dictionary, 1982, P 980]

Studies, surveys and research are the epitome of obfuscation. It is ironic then that little is done on a local or national level unless a study, survey or research project has been done. Before a traffic light can be installed in certain intersections there needs to be a study done to document the number of car crashes, and number of lives lost. However, if the number of car crashes or lives lost doesn't meet a 'predetermined' numberSorry, No can do!

Hm-m-m, one life or one person's car isn't important enough to consider that based on the nature of the car crash there is a problem that needs to be remedied by installing a traffic light? The nature of the car crash is not sufficient to spend the money to save other lives or cars according to officials in any town or municipality. If the number of car crashes meet the predetermined number, Voila! a light is put in. How the number of car crashes necessary to warrant a traffic light is determined is a well guarded secret.

Why, am I talking about this mundane topic? The topic is a simple example of what we, as managers of our society, have decided is acceptable criteria for addressing or solving any societal issue. For any societal issue to be addressed, a study needs to be done, statistics submitted and criteria for addressing the issue developed. Herein lies the dilemma, who decides what the criteria needs to be on any given issue? And who decides the best method to gather data which is unbiased and/or accurate? You guessed it researchers, submitting data to politicians, government officials (elected or appointed), and people who have a vested interest in the issue. Insidiously, the vested interest might not be to benefit the afflicted.

The intended topic of this article isviolence, rape, spousal abuse, physical or sexual child abuse. Violence, rape, spousal abuse, physical or sexual child abuse is society's worst scourge. Why? Because we have created and sanctioned the same obfuscation system which rules traffic light installation. Contrary to a car crash at an intersection, these scourges impacts everybody's life for many years, rather than only the few who have a car crash at a particular intersection. It is tragic we use the same methods to determine whether we need to address these societal issues.

-62% of females are sexually abused by age 18. Finkelhor, David and J. Dziuba-Leatherman. "Victimization of Children." American Psychologist Vol. 49:3 (1992): 173-183.

-31% of males are sexually abused by age 18. Ibid.

-More than 60 million adult survivors of incest and sexual child abuse live in America. *Note these are only reported cases. It is believed as great as 50% of sexual child abuse is unreported. Forward, 1993

-99% of sexual abuse survivors know their perpetrators

80% are abused by family members, 19% are abuse by other trusted adults. CCPA, 1992

-Of 50 male sexual abuse survivors, many were as young as 8 years old. FBI Uniform Crime Report, 1991.

-96% of female rape survivors were younger than 12 years old and knew their attackers. U.S. Department of Justice, 1992.

-A study of 10,000 female children under age 18 raped in 1992, reports that 3,800 girls were under 12 years old. U.S. Justice Department, study conducted in 11 states and the District of Columbia, June 1994.

-Of teenage, unwed mothers, 60-67% were incest survivors. Los Angeles Times survey, 1993

-96% of teenage prostitutes were sexually molested in childhood. CCPA, 1992. *Almost 80% had become prostitutes before age 18. Ibid. *60% of prostitutes were 16 or under; many were younger than 13. Ibid.

-Over 80% of the mothers of incest survivors were also sexually abused.

-57% of sexual child abuse and incest perpetrators are survivors of sexual child abuse. Goldstein-Harte Study 1973: Carter, et al. -A perpetrator abuses an average of 117 children. National Institute of Mental Health, 1988.

-extensive evidence substantiates the fact that sexual child abuse has taken place for centuries. D. Corwin (1990) cites that in London many believed that sexual "congress" with a child would cure venereal disease. Of capital rape prosecutions between 1730 and 1790, 35 percent of the cases involved victims younger than 10 years old.

-1896 in The Aetiology of Hysteria, Freud discusses his "Seduction Theory" acknowledging the sexual abuse and incest of children.

In the U.S. in 2000 over 3 million child abuse and neglect reports were filed and one million were confirmed. There are 3,000 children abused each day and four of them will die. Forty percent of these children were under the age of six. The age group with the highest abuse rate is 0-3 years. Nationally the highest form of abuse is neglect followed by physical abuse. In March of 2001 when President Bush declared April National Child Abuse Prevention Month he stated the cost of child abuse and neglect in the U.S. was $258 million dollars a day. This includes the price of intervention, the treatment of children who have been emotionally, physically or sexually abused as well as the indirect costs of the long term consequences both for the child and our society. Prevent Child Abuse America.

In 2000, there were 261,000 victims of rape, attempted rape or sexual assault. [2000 National Crime Victimization Survey. Bureau of Justice Statistics.] Of these 261,000, 114,000 were victims of sexual assault, 55,000 were victims of attempted rape, and 92,000 were victims of completed rape. [2000 NCVS.]

Because of the methodology of the National Crime Victimization Survey, these figures do not include victims 12 or younger. While there are no reliable annual surveys of sexual assaults on children, the Justice Department has estimated that one of six victims are under age 12. [Child Rape Victims, 1992]

"Have you heard about crime declining? It's true (as best we can tell). While figures for any single year are considered somewhat unreliable because they are based on a small sample size, the more-reliable long term trend looks good. Since1993, rape/sexual assault has fallen 52%." Here are more figures for recent years.[2000 NCVS.]

Dr. Frank Putnam of the National Institute of Mental Health and Dr. Martin Teicher of Harvard Medical School studied 170 girls, 6-15 years old--half had experienced corporal punishment, half had not--for seven years. The girls who experienced corporal punishment had symptoms such as:

-abnormally high stress hormones, which can kill neurons in brain areas crucial for thinking and memory

-high levels of an antibody that weaken the immune system

Teicher completed a series of brain studies on 402 children and adults, many of whom had corporal punishment. His findings revealed that corporal punishment creates:

-arrested growth of the left hemisphere of the brain which can hamper development of language and logic -growth of the right hemisphere of the brain (the site for emotions) at an abnormally early age.

The AMA ignores these studies. Why does the AMA ignore these studies? The answer lies within the obfuscation theory and other noted researchers work, such as: Judith Herman, M.D.

Judith Herman, M.D. author, Father-Daughter Incest undeniably confirms obfuscation abounds with regard to protecting woman and children from society's worst scourge: "As in the case of other crimes against women and children, for too long the power of the justice system has protected the men who victimized them As long as the justice system remains a male preserve, it can hardly be expected to reform itself The initiative for those reforms that have already been carried out has come almost entirely from women: from the rape counselor, the child advocate, and the small minority of women who work within the systemwe look forward to a time when women, who are so frequently the victims and rarely [research reveals women are more frequently the offender than previously reported] the offenders, adjudicate the majority of domestic and sexual crimes."

Statistics and studies notwithstanding, physical and sexual abuse and incest against female victims is so common it can be considered an epidemic.

Claire R. Reeves, President/Founder of MASA (Mothers Against Sexual Abuse) says, it best in her foreward toIf I'd Only KnownSexual Abuse in or out of the Family: A Guide to Prevention, Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, in her statement:

"If a disease affected our children in these enormous numbers we would declare a national emergency. Monies for research to find a cure would be made available immediately. Sadly, this is not a platform that you will find popular with politicians or a topic of conversation at a social gathering. Americans have always taken the stance that what happens in the family is a 'family matter.' Family values are the platform of many elected officials without looking at the real issue, 'What constitutes a family?'"

In summary, we can not afford to continue to do the same thing over and over and expect different results. Voltaire said, "We are not only responsible for what we do, but also, for that what we don't do." Sartre stated, "Those who ignore the past are condemned to repeat it." We have been ignoring information regarding the aftereffects from violence since the beginning of time. To continue to ignore these aftereffects is being part of the problem and the purveyor of obfuscation. It is never too late to change what isn't workingg.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, author: If I'd Only Known Sexual Abuse in or out of the Family: A Guide to Prevention specializes in sexual abuse, incest and physical abuse survivor preventin and recovery. She is a Board Member of the International Association of Regression Research and Therapies, Inc. http://www.gen-assist.com

Birthday Games

2009-01-28T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Sean Carter

The games in a Birthday party should be funny, energetic and classic. The party go-ers must go rocking with the playoffs. Games keep the guests entertained and make the day a non stop fun-filled bonanza. It should match the taste of the guests as well as the Birthday person and should be full of humor. A Birthday Game makes a Birthday party special and unique. Some of the famous Birthday party games are, Guess the Price, Pass the Parcel and Musical Statues.

Guess the Price is a very simple and interesting game; here the host picks up a gift item according to the age group of the guests and then asks him to tell the price. If he reaches near to the actual cost then he gets the gift.

Pass the Parcel is a very fanciful game. A gift item wrapped in several layers of paper is passed from one to another. Each time the parcel reaches someone, he has to open a layer and the last one to open it gets the gift.

Musical Statues is a very dynamic game often played in a kids Birthday party. Some music will be played and the kid has to dance on it till the music stops. He'll have to stand in his dancing position and if he moves he'll be out.

Mummy wrap is also an exciting game. Here, the kids will be divided into two groups and to each group will be given a person along with a roll of toilet papers. They have to wrap the person who will become the mummy with the toilet papers and the team who will finish it first will be the winner.

Games like Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Dress up the Birthday Balloon, Birthday Bears, Find the Differences, Balloon Pop up are some of the most hilarious games adored by kids on their Birthdays. Old is gold, and so some well known games are still trendy in some Birthday parties. Hot potato is one such game where all the kids will sit on a circle and they would be handed a potato. One kid will become the leader and he'll turn his head with eyes closed. Rest of the kids will pass on the potato from one to another at the fastest speed till the leader utters 'hot potato' and the person holding the potato at that moment will have to leave the game. Harry Potter games have also gained a high status in Birthday Parties especially among kids.

Birthday Games should be very lively and attention-grabbing and it should be organized in such a way that the Birthday boy or the Birthday girl memorizes it forever. Birthday games should always go with the theme of the party and most importantly should be of the kid's choice.

Sean Carter writes on Birthday, Birthday Games , Family, Relationships ,Women Issues, Love and Friendship. He also writes on holidays and celebrations around the world. He is a writer with special interest in ecard industry. He writes for 123greetings.com

Moving Home A Guide

2009-01-28T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Amber McNaught

Moving house can be a very stressful time for both yourself and your family. It's a massive upheaval that if not arranged properly could cause you no end of hassles. This guide consists of a series of hints and tips that should help ensure your next move is as hassle-free as possible.

If you do decide to use a removal company then please be sure to check the contract to confirm exactly what their price includes. You should also make sure you are covered during your move by your home insurance. Finding a reliable removal company can also be a difficult task, try contacting the British Association of Removers (W: www.removers.org.uk T: 01923 699480).

Packing Tips

· Try to keep a record of what is in each box and label them accordingly. A simple numbering system should suffice.

· Don't Overfill. It's important to realise that boxes need to be transported, the last things anyone wants is for an overfilled box to break under the strain.

· It's important that boxes are not under filled as well, this is to avoid them being crushed when heavier boxes are placed on top.

· Start packing two to three weeks in advance with items that you won't immediately need.

· Suitcases are a great way of storing clothing etc.

On The Day

On the day, pack one box with a kettle, tea bags, coffee, milk and snacks. Matches, kitchen roll, can-opener, sharp knife, cutlery, plates, screwdriver, candles, toilet rolls and light bulbs are also a good idea. Keep this box with you, along with important documents, telephone numbers you may need, cash and valuables and of course the keys to your new home!

It's also important to remember to turn of the water, gas meter, boiler and all electric and gas appliances. Make sure you also take final meter readings.

Admin Matters

It's also important that you keep people informed of your move. You can arrange re-direction of all your post via Royal Mail. Prices start at just £6.55 for one month. You can pick up the Moving Home Redirection form by calling into your nearest Post Office. It can also be downloaded from the royal mail website (W: www.royalmail.co.uk ).

We've also included a table below of companies and individuals who could be notified about your move.

Bank
Credit Card Providers
Employer
Newsagent
Satellite TV
Car Insurers
TV Licensing
TV Rental
Electricity Company
Doctor
Insurance Broker
Milkman
DHSS
Telephone Provider
Gas Company
Accountant
Dentist Friends & Family
Inland Revenue
Pension Companies
Optician
Solicitor
Schools

We hope that the above topics cover the most important areas and that you will use our suggestions as a starting point for your next move.

Call the Butler is an innovative new lifestyle management company operating in and around Central Scotland. Too much too do and not enough time to do it? Why not Call the Butler?

Call the Butler: http://www.callthebutler.co.uk

Wait For The Butter And Miss The Bread

2009-01-27T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by John Dir

The core values of people who grow up in larger families are influenced by factors that often go unnoticed by society. When my wife offers bread or rolls for dinner, she cannot understand why I do not take time to put something like butter on it. This situation goes right to the core of the illustration. When we were growing up as a family, dinner time was a very strategic moment in daily history. Without discussion, each child at the table knew what plan to execute, and each one performed the same ritual at every meal.

As we all gathered around the table, there would invariably be certain foods that were highly desirable, and others that we knew we would have to fill the rest of our plates with, once the good stuff was gone. The interlude which preceded the blessing of our meal was the perfect time to mentally prepare ourselves for the first target we intended to grab. Each of us pictured the angle of attack, the speed of the snatch, the physical distance from our seating location, and the potential contingency plans in the event of a competitor reaching for the same item. In addition to these factors, there was also the influence of who would be chosen to speak the blessing, and how long the interval would be until the "Amen" set the contest into motion.

On a few ill planned occasions, somebody would try to obtain an unfair advantage by hovering one hand over a particularly delectable item, thinking the safety of bowed heads and closed eyes would protect them from scrutiny. However, there were too many of us willing to peek and cry foul to allow such tactics to go unnoticed. A slapped hand might throw off the coordination needed for a perfect execution, so on most occasions, we learned to keep our hands ready, but out of sight. For those who tried playing mind games by strategically creating an inordinate pause before the "Amen," we learned quickly that this was only cause for creating a virtual "Amen," which did nothing to delay the start. As our parents attempted to instill appropriate table manners, they learned how quickly a child can get a piece of food and take a bite out of it, before the niceties of passing dishes around the table can begin.

As we all grew more skilled in the protocol of family dinners, the basic understanding became clear that one might be able to get hold of one or two choice food items before order overcame the chaos. One certainty was that if a participant waited for the butter, they might miss out on the bread. Chicken dinners became a sore spot for the family at one point in time. Chickens only have two beast portions, and with four people who preferred breast meat, the conflict over the lucky grab created a problem until my mother resolved the issue by buying all breasts instead of whole chickens for dinner.

These early lessons prepared a pattern for life that still carries over in some aspects today. Though our manners and protocols at meals have greatly improved as adults, there are still the subliminal impulses that tell me that if I wait for the butter, I might miss out on the bread. In smaller families with plenty of food to spare, such things are not part of the fiber that shapes their approach to life.

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BHO Technologists - LittleTek Center
Teaching computers to work with people. We make software more fun for everyone. Stop by for a visit to our web site, and see what a difference ITL technology makes!

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30 Kids Party Favors For Pennies

2009-01-26T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Patricia Jensen

Party favors needn't be costly, just a simple remembrance of the good time guests had at your child's party. Each of these party favors cost under $1 per guest, some only pennies apiece.

Shop dollar stores and discount outlets to stock up on these clever party favorites. Use individually or mix and match, using your party theme as a guide.

*Craft stick picture frames (decorated by party guests) with a polaroid of the party child with each guest

*Small plastic toy, stickers, stringed beads, coins, etc. inside an inflated balloon

*Glow necklaces and bracelets

*Small pack of crayons with coloring book

*Book matching the party theme

*Frisbee

*Bubble liquid

*Sidewalk chalk

*Puzzle

*Beach ball

*Tattoos

*Balloons

*Pencils

*Hair ornaments

*Watercolor paint set

*Address book

*Tiny Notebook

*Plastic Tiara

*Lollipops

*Pez Dispensers

*Seed packets to plant

*Unused fast food toys

*Fast food coupons worth $1

*Homemade modeling clay and a cookie cutter

Make and Take Kid Party Favor Ideas:

Kids love to make crafts and these double as party favors when kids get to take them home...

*Personalized and decorated foam sun visor

*Handpainted and decorated sunglasses

*Personalized and decorated bookmark

*Handmade potpourri sachet

*Handmade refrigerator magnet

*Handpainted suncatcher

*Handmade beaded jewelry

*Homemade soap

Party favors should not be so expensive as to rival the gifts given to your child at his or her party! Keep it small, simple, memorable, and easy on your pocketbook.

Patricia B. Jensen is a mother of three and kids party enthusiast. She is the webmaster and owner of Kids-Party-Paradise.com - a complete resource for kids party ideas including invitations, cakes, decorations, games, costumes, favors, and food.

For all the latest party news, read her Kids Party Blog.

Thoughtful Gift Ideas For Senior Citizens

2009-01-25T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Natalie Aranda

Kids are easily pleased by almost any gifts as the whole world is new to them. Senior citizens may have experienced and owned everything they wanted in their life. That's what makes a challenge when it comes to choose gifts for your grandmothers or grandfathers.

No matter what time of year it is, personalized yet unique gifts will sure impress them if you listen to they say and look at what they do. Far too often people tend to buy senior citizens items that they'd never want. Consequently, you should first make a list of what type of hobbies they like. Do they enjoy golfing or spending time playing games with their friends? If this is the case, you could purchase a unique game for their Christmas gift. Researching vintage entertainment or new board games on EBay would be a different approach. This way you could give them something one of a kind. Christmas gift ideas may be tricky to come up with, but they should also incorporate how much you are thinking about them. Since you do want them to enjoy what you purchase, you could get them a gift certificate to a spa or a day at a romantic inn. These gifts are wonderful and inspiring items, regardless of what holiday it is. Chances are they will thank you for months, because the majority of gift givers do not think so deeply.

If you are having trouble coming up with birthday gift ideas, you should always remember to avoid joke presents! When we all get older, we cringe at the thought of age being mentioned. Although some senior citizens embrace who they are, some people would rather not make a big deal of their age. Therefore, you should avoid the birthday gift ideas that involve age jokes. You never know when you are going to offend someone. After all, the last thing you want to do is remind them of their life insurance settlements or the life settlement issues they may have to worry about.

If you are trying to find a better birthday idea, you should explore the idea of scrapbooks. By creating a book filled with photos, memories, and comments, it will bring your grandparents to tears. They embrace nostalgia and would love to have a keepsake that they can look through for years. As a result, these special birthday gift ideas are an extraordinary way to say you love them and are happy to be part of their lives.

Senior citizens may seem like they are impossible to buy for, but all they want are unique gifts like everyone else. No matter whom you are buying presents for, the gift ideas need to be out of the ordinary. Discouraged and don't have a lot of money to spend? Even by taking time to create a memory book or photo album, it would bring a smile to their face. From birthday gift ideas to Christmas gift ideas, anything is possible as long as you put your heart into it. If you are looking for a quick fix and a simple present to buy, sadly you will be like everyone else.

Natalie Aranda writes on home and family. If you are having trouble coming up with birthday gift ideas, you should always remember to avoid joke presents! When we all get older, we cringe at the thought of age being mentioned. Although some senior citizens embrace who they are, some people would rather not make a big deal of their age. Therefore, you should avoid the birthday gift ideas that involve age jokes. You never know when you are going to offend someone. After all, the last thing you want to do is remind them of their life insurance settlements or the life settlement issues they may have to worry about.

How A Powered Wheelchair Can Enhance The Living Condition Of The Handicapped And Elderly

2009-01-24T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Balaji B

Wheelchairs are a boon to not only the handicapped but also for the elderly people. There are various types of wheelchairs. Some are manually operated and the others are electrically operated. Some wheelchairs are operated with the help of sensor devices. Here is a little information about the enhancement of living condition of the elderly and handicapper people with the help of the wheelchair fitted with sensors.

As mentioned earlier the wheelchairs are of immense help to the handicapped people, elderly people and others who could not walk due to various medical ailments. Those people need to move on their own. Confining themselves within four walls will harm them physically and mentally. Wheelchairs are nothing but chair on wheels. The chairs will have four wheels. The rear wheels will be larger than the front wheels. The chairs will be provided with sensors for safety, ultramodern navigation modules and steering that is omni directional.

The introduction of powered wheelchair is of biggest help for the severely disabled persons. They can move to different places without the help of others and even without exerting themselves much as in the case of manual wheelchairs. Conventional wheelchairs are very difficult to operate for the people who have limited psycho -mental capacity. There are two reasons for this. The first one is their mental and physical inability to operate the wheelchair.

The other reason is the complicated household environments such as small bathrooms located in one corner of the house with narrow passage. Controlling the wheelchair will be hard for those who have restricted psycho-mental capacity. In order to help severely affected people through research the technicians have come out with newer model. These models are provided with sensor instruments. These sensor instruments fitted in the wheelchair prevent the collision of the machine with any object be it is wall or other furniture items.

Hence the occupant need not worry about the collision and the subsequent injury while maneuvering the machine through the narrow passage. There is more freedom of operation. Some of the wheelchairs are provided with facilities like playback [moving on the prescribed or recorded direction and path] and back -tracing [facility to reverse the recent application]

The occupant of the wheelchair should be taught very well about the functioning of the wheelchair. It is better to make the occupant to go through the operating booklet thoroughly. Incase on any doubt about the particular function, it has to be clarified by the technician then and there. The basic function of the wheelchair must be made to known to the occupant otherwise we may need to design or order specific wheelchair for the occupant, I mean for the disabled person.

Few models of the wheelchairs are fitted with IR or ultrasonic sensors. The prime function of this sensor is to prevent dashing, thus providing safe movement. Some other wheelchairs are provided with sensors that help in movement directed by the environment. These sensors help in moving the wheelchair along the wall or through the door or for docking the wheelchair at station. Few other models were provided with special control devices such as play-back and back-tracing as mentioned earlier.

As the wheelchair is fitted with more advance equipments the movement the wheelchair by the occupant becomes very easy and the occupants are less burdened. At the same time as the functionality of the machine becomes more the safety becomes very important which should never be compromised.

Though the powered wheelchairs move automatically with the press of button, the speed and the direction must be decided by the occupant. Hence the occupant must be given proper training before letting him to operate the machine on his own. For some time it is better to ask the occupant to operate the machine inside the house. Once he is confident of himself, he can be allowed to use the wheelchair wherever he wants.

Though there are difficulty in understanding and operating the powered wheelchair, there is no doubt that these powered machines enhance the standard of living of the handicapped and the elderly people once they are familiar with the machine and its operation. The occupant will be confidant of himself, the dependency of the occupant on the other person for his movement will be less. The freedom of the occupant is ensured with the sensor controlled wheel chairs.

Visit battery power motorized wheelchairs for more information on how modern censor-controlled wheelchairs functions and benefits. Also, visit wheelchair guide to learn about various types of wheelchairs, their features and benefits.

Patio Umbrellas

2009-01-24T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Daniel Roshard

Umbrellas for Patio - Shoppers Guide

Patio umbrellas are an ideal way to keep the sun away when enjoying the outdoors. A patio umbrella will also compliment any outdoor setting. Patio umbrellas are like large versions of average umbrellas and come in many different shapes, sizes, colors and fabrics. There are many different types of patio umbrellas available and all of them have many benefits.

Different types of umbrellas

*Offset patio umbrellas. These umbrellas are designed to create more space under the umbrella. They have their pole off to the side of the umbrella instead of in the middle. This is an ideal alternative if your outdoor table setting doesn't have an umbrella hole in the middle of it. Or you wish to maximize space under the umbrella, another useful thing that an offset umbrella can offer is shade when using just seating without a table, as they are freestanding.

*Market patio umbrellas. These umbrellas are ideal for outdoor setting tables that have a ready-made hole in them for an umbrella. Market umbrellas are lightweight and easy to handle. They come in many different fabrics and sizes. There are also freestanding umbrellas available.

*Patio umbrella gazebo's. This type of umbrella is much like a market umbrella although it has a cotton netting around it that makes it ideal to keep bugs and insects out of the way when outside. Most of the netting is machine washable and the umbrella can fold down easily.

What to look for in a market umbrella

Although there are many different types of patio umbrellas available, there are some very important options available to be considered when choosing a patio umbrella. Some of these are practical as well as enhancing:
*Sturdy design,
*Freestanding options
*Strong pole
*Stainless Steel or Aluminum base
*Nylon hubs instead of plastic for durability
*Easy to fold away and store
*Not too heavy
*Easy to open and close
*Positional tilting
*Non-fade quality material or fabric that is durable
*A reasonable warranty

Depending on the price range that you have in mind and the intended purpose of your umbrella, some or all of these features are ideal when making a choice.

Where to buy a patio umbrellas

There are many online stores with very good reputations that will offer cheap or free postage to ship market umbrellas. They also offer customers very reasonable prices. Check the types of payment options that are available, how long delivery will take and whether they offer insurance to replace damaged items. When choosing an online store, it is advisable to buy from stores that have a very good reputation with satisfied customers. If the item you have chosen sounds too cheap or too good to be true, then it may be.

Other places to purchase patio umbrellas are at patio furniture stores. Most of the stores have catalogues that allow you can browse through the different types of umbrellas available. An ideal time to buy a patio umbrella is when there are sales going on. That way you aren't sacrificing quality for a cheaper price tag.

Daniel Roshard is an interior designer fascinated by outdoor architecture, currently studying gardens and outdoor design. Read Daniel's tips and advice articles on Patio At http://patio-expert.com/

Surfs Up Its A Beach Party

2009-01-23T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

Some of the best beach parties can happen in the Midwest, with temperatures below freezing. Sounds crazy? It is, but it is a memorable and fun way to celebrate a birthday, retirement or special occasion. Beach parties can happen in the summer too, near a pool or a lake in any region.

A beach party needs radical invitations, man! You can follow a surfer theme and use surfboard shapes or any beach theme motif from the party supply store. Other supplies like paper products for food and decorations can match your beach party motif.

Decorating can be fun. Buy plastic beach balls and blow them up to toss around your party, whether it's inside or out. Buy an old fishing net and hang from the corner of one room. Fill it with sea creatures and marine life, or use it to put in pictures of the guest of honor. If your party is outside, truck in some sand for beach volleyball.

Use the sand and have a sandcastle competition. Give away personalized party favors to all the winners. Besides volleyball, other sand activities can be horseshoes, Frisbee and football. If there are kids at the party, bury a treasure and create a map for them to follow. Depending on their ages you can make it difficult or easy to find. Use a treasure chest and bury candy or plastic trinkets for them.

If your beach party is inside in the winter, have guests bring their swimsuits and change into them. Turn your thermostat really hot to get them in the mood. Heat and swimsuits will make everyone in a better mood and look forward to spring and summer.

Serve finger food and anything with a beach theme. Make surfer sandwiches or tidal wave macaroni salad. Use regular dishes but jazz them up with a title.

Mattress Brands Comparison The Real Mccoy

2009-01-22T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Mike Lowe

Getting a great night sleep is very important for everyone and mattress brand comparison makes a great deal of difference. When a person is tired from lack of sleep, they do not function at top capacity, which not only affects their personal life but also work.

Mattress brand comparison can certainly make the difference between being exhausted and feeling refreshed and wonderful. When it is time to upgrade or replace it, mattress brand comparison is very important so you purchase a mattress that meets all your requirements. Because we spend approximately a third of our life in bed, a mattress that soothes aching muscles and joints and is great for your posture is certainly well worth looking into.

When completing a mattress brands comparison, some are more expensive than others but remember that a mattress will last for many years so the cost spread over ten years, twenty years, or more is very insignificant.

Always try the mattresses out right at the store to see how comfortable they are for you. Try lying in your normal sleeping positions and sitting. Comfort, durability and support are very important. There are many different types of mattresses such as air mattresses, innerspring and foam.

There are buyers guides that are available to help people make an educated and smart choice. These guides allow mattress brands comparisons, price comparison and models as well as listing the disadvantages as well as advantages. They also discuss the construction.

There are four mattress types and they are:

Pocket sprung These come in several fillings and stitching, usually these are firm

Foam mattress memory foam mattresses conforms to the body and is excellent for people with allergies

Orthopedic mattress Great for people with medical problems as they have adjustable support

Open sprung Differ from pocket sprung, soft to firm

Be sure to not only complete mattress brands comparisons but also to actually lie down on them to test them out.

Sleep tight and sleep right with mattress brands comparison information at our site!

Starting A New Life Abroad

2009-01-22T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Rhiannon Williamson

For some people starting a new life abroad is their ultimate dream come true, for others it's a daunting but necessary lifestyle change brought about by a career move or a relationship requirement for example.

Whichever category you happen to fall into one thing is for certain, starting a new life overseas is an incredibly exciting opportunity but one that requires courage and commitment this article shows you how to find that courage and commitment to enable you to get the very most out of your brand new life.

1) Spousal Support

There are significant stresses and strains placed on a relationship during a move overseas. Chances are at least one in the partnership will be embarking on a new job, taking on different responsibilities and meeting new peoplethe other spouse may well have to take on the burden of getting accommodation sorted out, dealing with the necessary bureaucracy and getting the family unit into a routine alone. Both parties will be experiencing challenges and will need the full support and understanding of their partner, therefore you should take time out of your very busy lives to discuss your day, to share experiences and to give each other the critical moral support to keep plodding away at building the new life.

2) Coping With Change

Before you move abroad try and understand how you cope with change if you adapt easily, make friends quickly, are not addicted to your routine then chances are you'll find moving overseas a breeze! If on the other hand you're shy, hate making the first move or need to know where everything is and which tasks you have to fulfill tomorrow you will need to prepare yourself mentally for your move. Don't try and take on too many tasks in one day where you might be able to achieve 15 different chores in one day currently, the slow pace of life in your new host country or even just the language barrier may well slow you down. See each achievement as worthy of celebration and don't push yourself to settle in too quickly. Take each day at a time and at the end of the day look over even the smallest things you've achieved that day and give yourself a pat on the back!

3) Making New Friends

When you move abroad you may well be leaving behind a strong network of family and friends on whom you know you can rely. This support network is often something we take for granted but as soon as you relocate you'll find you miss it a great deal. While it is essential you keep in touch with everyone back home with phone calls, emails and letters, it is also critical that you get out there and build a new network. The sooner you can get in a situation where you're meeting new people the sooner you'll be in a position to make friends and the sooner you'll have people there who can support you, offer advice and even show you around the best bits of your new host country. So, take a deep breathe and go out to expat events or popular bars and start networking!

4) Finding Familiarity

Your new house will feel like a home when you are 100% familiar with it, your local surroundings and the people who live nearby. And while it is hard to speed up the familiarizing process too much, you can make an effort to ensure it is progressing as fast as it can! Find local shops, hairdressers, dentists, doctors, schools, pubs and restaurants straight away. Drive round, walk round and learn where all the amenities, facilities and services are in the local area. Get to know your way around easily, and then slowly but surely everything will seem so familiar to you that when you return to your house after work or a day away you'll feel like you're returning home - then you will feel 100% happy and secure in your new environment.

5) Getting Stuck In

The sooner you make that first trip in the car alone the sooner you'll know your way around. The sooner you approach that group of strangers at the party the sooner you'll make friends. The sooner you get the bureaucracy in motion the sooner you'll be a legal resident. The sooner you look for work the sooner you'll have financial security. You've made the decision to live abroad so don't put your new life on hold once you make the move get out there, get stuck in and start living and loving your new life.

Rhiannon Williamson is a freelance writer whose many articles about living abroad and international property have appeared in publications around the world. Visit this link to read her latest articles about buying property in North Cyprus

So Who Are You Going To Tell He Would Sneer An Olympia Wa Crime Victims Account Part Two

2009-01-21T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Russ Miles

Her only motive has been, and is, to protect her children from physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual damage continually inflicted upon them since her divorce, ten years ago. For the first six years thereafter, Grace had a life, custody of her minor children, and made some "Left-hand-turns" - as some divorcés do.

Since Grace could not abide by, sanction, nor submit to the depravity that she witnessed - things she was expected to ignore - she had removed herself from an abusive situation through lawful means. The means to extract payment for divorcing him - and exercising his control over Grace's life and destiny ~ those employed by her ex-husband, have been anything but lawful. By exercising his condoned power within the corrupt Washington State capital, secrete powers infrastructure (which supersedes Child Protective Services, the foster care system, and cover's up their flagrant and frequent abuses), the ex-husband and those responsible have inflected irreparable damages -to not only Grace and her children but -to countless others who suffer similar unfortunate plight.

We fast forward to four years ago. When it became clear to her ex-husband, the meth~addicted, state protected man, Grace was not "Going to come to her senses, and come back," he turned up the heat. Multiple energies of evil were dispatched against her.

Grace was given arsenic in her food over several months. Grace's house was robbed, her automobiles messed with. She was kidnapped, always tailed, intentionally traumatized, never safe. On one occasion, her would be "Walk in the woods" assassin became frustrated, throwing the intended murder weapon, revolver onto the parking lot - next to the woods - where she was supposed to disappear. Police reports document her difficulties. She has the copies of doctored reporting records discounting the validity of her ordeal and witnesses to testify contradictory to the distorted investigating officer's account thereof.

Grace also has copies -and originals- of letters from state agencies to her ex-husband suggesting that he be more careful after which her 8-year-old unsupervised, son was found to be smoking marijuana with her ex-husband himself - and on another occasion - when her son was struck by a fast moving car. Included in one cryptic warning letter - on official state stationary - is the dire warning, "We wouldn't want anything to happen to your son, would we?" Certainly, such words are indicating anything goes for the powerful in Olympia.

In her case, Grace has expanded her area of "Divinely~Ordained" responsibility to include all of the damaged and dead victims, often mothers of children estranged from them by powerful State law enforcement personal, battered wives that can't talk, the terrorized who can't tell. Her heart aches for each one for she understands. As Grace's ex-husband smugly asked, "So, who are you going to tell?" He would sneer. "Who would ever believe you?"

Well, reader, I believe her. If you become involved, you will too. Grace has been unable to obtain her divorce decreed duplex, keep custody of her children, been defrauded of her good name and made to appear crazy. She is not. Only "Affected" by the innumerable atrocities she has faithfully endured. In her effort to maintain congeniality and have access to her children, Grace even has "Forgiven" those directly responsible for attempting to murder her, having her raped, and locking her up" - if that is possible. Yet, she will never say, "Wrong is right."

Repeated attempts to secure competent legal council - in Olympia / Thurston County, Washington jurisdiction - have been unsuccessful. None of the attorneys contacted have been willing to take on the entrenched system to which they have sworn allegiance or sold out. This despite some significant sums of money and properties involved could conceivably materialize. Perhaps, their own careers of the Olympia lawyers contacted ~and personal survival issues - are at stake?

On one venture to recover some court file documents - last year, in Olympia - Grace and I were greeted by a startled policeman when we exited a restaurant. Her hair color changed, yet her Spirit unmistakable, the officer's first astonished words upon approach were, "Are you still alive?"

On that trip, my own car was sabotaged, while parked in front of our motel room door. It required extensive / expensive repairs to the engine before we could leave Olympia. How could we prove it? To whom could we turn? "So,who are you going to tell?" What proof do we have, other than the Styrofoam lid from the joke diner - left at the door overnight - with "Your Last Super!" scrawled on its lid? It is like the second illuminating line, nonsense announcement that any jokester could have made: "You can't Love!"

Yes, I believe her. I believe despite impossible odds, Grace is the best mother her fortunate children could ever have had. From long distance telephone, she has maintained almost daily contact with her six children, solving problems, when necessary even soliciting the helps of "Handcuffed" state agency workers to intercede with authorities on their behalves. Her ongoing, fearless efforts have affected much positive influence in their lives.

In a unbridled attempt to survive by fleeing Olympia ~ in April 2003 ~ Grace arrived to help me (a disabled victim of Multiple Sclerosis and sometimes author/poet) relocate from my home I had to sell ~ and in response to her appeal to be heard, coupled with the need to secure sanctuary. Deposited with a mountain of suitcases and garment bags in my living room, Grace could hardly speak. Much of what she said sounded confused, unintelligible. Although I wrote fiction, this woman's sordid story - at first listen - was way too bazaar for me. Little wonder a retired Federal agent had assured Grace, "You have the most twisted Olympia file that I've seen in this town for twenty years."

As with an uncapped volcano, underlying turmoil tremors preceded her various eruptions. Once removed from emanate danger, Grace began to recover quickly. Her time clock had locked during a traumatic event. She quit believing her twelve-year-old son was yet eight-years-old. Grace could once again keep track of what day and year it now was. Without toxic stress, Grace is no longer a muddle. With the eyes of a sparrow, a heart of a lioness , she sees people clearly and perceives their motives. Not easily deceived, she cuts through the crap.

While assisting me in all aspects of my disability, Grace regained her physical and mental health. Exercising uncanny wisdom, she has helped me to identify, recognize, and overcome many of my personal shortfalls. Most importantly, she has made me aware that I do have physical limitations, a realiry I was reluctant to accept. Our symbiotic, platonic relationship has evolved to one of mutual respect, appreciation of strengths, and accountability for weakness.

Personally, I feel that with proper representation, Grace has at least cause to charge the State of Washington, City of Olympia, Thurston County, Child Protective Services, her ex-husband, his PHD psychologist Guardian Ad linen mother, and her collogue in collusion judge friend with criminal offenses for which she should be compensated. Although irreparable damage has already been inflicted to her children, Grace should be made able to obtain the counseling services for however long she deems necessary - to restore their belief in authority - and become contributing citizens within a sane, if now foreign to them, society.

We feel that going public - with her support documentation - might afford Grace some protection in the aftermath of the resultant bombshell? Olympia can't keep victim crimes covered up forever. The long-locked, hot lid is now leaking!

Can Grace ever be safe from reprisals ordered by exposed adversaries? Will she ever be able to find peace and security, be economically compensated, be empowered to resume her life - perhaps in another part of the country? We will yet see. An Olympia Crime Victim's Account - Part Three is still unfolding. We have been approached by an entity to collaborate on the movie rights to "Her Abuse Never Happened."

I believe we will

Russ Miles is author of the novel, For Sale By Owners:FSBO. A "Seasoned" Real Estate NAR® Broker, he is "Disabled" by Multiple Sclerosis, FOR SALE BY OWNERS:FSBO ISBN 0-595-28703-4,in trade paperback, is available by phone or Internet:1-800-Authors to order direct! Adobe e-book & hard cover editions also available at Amazon.com at Barnes and Noble and other fine booksellers. For personal referrals to his publisher, reader's~feedback, or comments, reach Russ at (360)694-6756. Or by e-mail MilesRuss@Gmail.com [Please label the subject of your e-mail so as not to be confused as SPAM, and to assure proper handling.]

How To Read A General Price List For A Funeral

2009-01-20T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Michael Russell

Death and taxes are the only sure thing in life. This article will help with the death portion. Since a funeral has many intricacies, this will help to explain a funeral home's General Price List (GPL). This list gives details about the goods and services that the funeral home offers, including the price of each.

The Federal Trade Commission has mandated a Funeral Rule that states that funeral homes must give customers a GPL at the beginning of any discussion of arrangements. You should be given a copy to keep. It is most prudent to discuss the GPL in private with your family and close friends. This way you can make an informed decision without the selling tactics of the funeral director.

All GPLs have certain disclosures printed on them. They must state that:

. consumers may select only the goods and services they desire

. embalming is only required by law in certain special cases

. a basic services fee will be added

. for cremation, you can purchase an "alternative container". This option is usually much less expensive.

. A price list for caskets is available

. A price list for vaults is available

GPLs must list the following prices of these items if the funeral home offers these services:

. Embalming charge

. Retrieval of body

. Viewing price

. Funeral or memorial service

. Funeral vehicle rental

Reading the GPL can seem quite daunting to people, especially if they have just experienced a death in the family. Funeral homes use the tactic of listing "packages" on the first few pages and then listing the individual services on the last page. This serves to discourage people from price comparison because it they often get tired prior to reaching the itemized list. To be fair, buying a package deal may offer savings but only if you want all the items.

Direct cremation and immediate burial, the simplest options when it comes to funerals, include body pickup, basic services fee, death certificate filing and transportation to the cemetery or crematory. If you are opting for cremation, be sure to inquire about the crematory fee. Many funeral homes do not include this fee in their price.

If you want a more complex service, you must start with the basic services fee. This is the only fee on the GPL that the customer must pay. This will cover the death certificate filing, obtaining copies of the death certificate for the family, coordination with the cemetery or crematory and filing for insurance, veterans, or Social Security benefits. These are services that are common to most arrangements.

The Funeral Consumers Alliance has reviewed tens of thousands of GPLs over the years. At least 50% do not comply with FTC rules. If you are dealing with a funeral home that has a GPL that is overtly out of compliance, you are dealing with a business that is unethical. I have listed some of the most common violations:

. For immediate burial, charging a higher price if you purchase the casket outside of the funeral home. Not giving you the choice of "disinfecting/basic care of the remains."

. Adding "supervising a funeral service" into the basic services fee

GPLs are not complicated documents but they must be read carefully and thoroughly. Unfortunately, the timing that necessitates the review of the GPL makes it prudent to confer with family and close friends prior to making any decisions about the funeral process. A GPL is a valuable and necessary document and it should be carefully reviewed in order to make smart financial decisions about a funeral service.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Funerals

Quotpushyquot Deaf Kids Mom

2009-01-20T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Russ Miles

There are some things that we as persons, born on this planet, have no control over. Our own birth defects are included in that scenario. While there are those who believe that we ourselves choose what obstacles we must face and overcome in this life, prior to our earthly birth, I am not one who buys that. I did not choose to be born deaf.

Be that what it may, I was entered this world with a 70% hearing loss in both ears. It didn't take my Mother long to recognize my hearing deficiency. She had been born a hearing impaired person too. My Mother determined that her child would not hide his deficiency, as she had been allowed to do.

Mom, as a child, had many siblings. Most of her sisters were older than she so hers were hand-me-down clothes. Poor, nearly deaf, she had taken a back seat in classrooms in an effort to not call attention to herself and her perceived inadequacies. Always, when called upon by a teacher, Mother would say, "I don't know" As she later told me, "The alternative answer would have been even more humiliating, I didn't hear!"

I would never be allowed to make such an unwise determination. Every year, the first day of grammar school, Mother would march me before the teachers and tell them, in no uncertain terms, "This boy can not hear. I want him in a front desk, and I don't want him moved around the room!"

As any otherwise normal kid would, I hated it. I asked her, "Why do you have to make such a big thing about this? I hear alright," I insisted.

"Of course you do," was her reply. "Because, I love you, I want you to hear what your teachers say and not have the articulation problems that I've had learning to form your own words correctly.

I didn't really comprehend, until later, the significance of the second part of Mother's answer. But yeah, I knew that she did love me. Even though I often resented the seating restriction, I was ever to be found occupying a front desk.

As a direct result of my "Pushy Mother's intervention," I was not distracted by classroom conversations which were not part of the curriculum. I couldn't get away with anything because the teachers would catch me. And, I learned to properly pronounce most words because I "Heard" them. Mother's vocabulary was excellent, her speech clear, as she had invested many childhood hours in a dictionary, looking up words that she felt she might need with emphasis on pronunciation. In grade school, I was spared that responsibility which I would not have taken upon myself anyway.

It wasn't until high school that I learned to be stupid in my selection of where to sit. I never even considered that perhaps misunderstanding assignments, or not hearing what instructors actually said, had something to do with how hard I had to struggle.

Later, I was witness to what might have happened to me if not for having a "Pushy Mom." A cousin inherited the same type of hearing loss I was born with. His mother didn't bother to be pushy on this issue. He was shuffled along through school and treated like someone with a learning impairment. No wonder, for when he spoke he sounded retarded.

For a while, as an adult, I sold hearing aids. When I checked my cousin's hearing, it was virtually identical to my own. Only then, did I fully comprehend and appreciate the wonderful gift my mother had given me by being "Pushy."

If you have a child that doesn't have excellent hearing, consider becoming a "Pushy Parent," if only on this one issue. It is one thing that you can do for your child ~ on this planet ~ to level the playing field while he or she is too young to appreciate it.

Russ Miles is author of the novel, For Sale By Owners:FSBO. A "Seasoned Real Estate NAR® Broker," disabled by Multiple Sclerosis, writes books & articles on varied subjects. Google russ miles FOR SALE BY OWNERS:FSBO ISBN 0-595-28703-4,in trade paperback, is available by phone or Internet:1-800-Authors to order direct! Adobe e-book & hard cover editions also available FSBO at Amazon.com at Barnes and Noble and other fine booksellers. Comments: MilesRuss@Gmail.com.[Visit soulful-writer.com]

When Helping Family Hurts You

2009-01-19T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Tim Carr

Two months ago I had Pneumonia. I am still recovering from the effects of it. Workouts have been improving daily over the last month. I have been getting my strength back. My health has been improving daily. I have been having a clear vision for my future. The one thing that loomed on the horizon as a potential unknown was my living situation.

I have been living out in the country for almost 14 months now. My flat was about 20 miles from any major city. The cost of gas was eating me alive, but when I slept at night, I was at peace. I felt safe. Moreover, the apartment was clean (I am clean) and it was perfect for my needs. The rent was fairly steep, but it included utilities so it was a fairly reasonable place to live. In most ways, it was perfect for me. So, should I renew and stay another year, or find cheaper environs if possible?

Then I made the fateful mistake of talking to my brother one night about three months ago during which I dared to suggest he get a roommate. You see, we had been gabbing on the phone about this and that when he began to bemoan his financial situation. He had a nice condominium for the last 2-3 years and he just could not afford it on his salary any more. So, I suggested he leave that place and move into the apartment complex I was in. It was close to many things he liked (mountains and folks music scene). What's more, there was an awesome, huge, vacant apartment within the complex that almost defies description. It was a very cool place indeed.

I had several reasons for suggesting this course of action for my brother. First, it would save us both money. We could each spend $600.00 a month and everything was included. There was room to spare and my brother would have a place for all his furniture and books. Seeing as how I had relatively little of these things, it made good sense. Plus, the place had a Jacuzzi, which would have been very therapeutic for us both.

Second, and this is where things get dicey, my brother had destroyed his current place of residence over the last three years. He was overwhelmed by its size and the amount of clutter. He just let it go. In the 2-3 years he had lived there, he simply trashed the joint. He never cleaned it once, and it was filthy, covered in cat vomit (he has a precious cat that we both love, but she has a nervous stomach). He never changed the air filters which led to the air conditioner breaking and I hated going there because if how messy it was. Moreover, it was just bad for my lungs. In light of all of this, it seemed that starting over with a clean slate might be good for my brother.

My suggestion would allow him to start over with a new place. But, as I read what I am typing I begin to see just how stupid and foolish that all sounds. After all, this brother of mine is a grown man who was content with piles of cat vomit all over his apartment. What was I thinking to believe that he would be able to change if he got a fresh new start? He had developed some strong, negative habits at his place and his habits would follow him wherever he went, unless he decided to change.

Then there were the fights. At times my brother and I just fight, fuss and argue. I am told this is what brothers do. Is that really true? Anyway, I thought that in the past few months things had been going well between us and that maybe we could room together. We seemed to be enjoying each others company more and more, however we only spent short periods of time together and maybe that is why we were getting along so swimmingly. More delusion, perhaps? Was I was a fool for thinking this?

In the end, my brother declined my offer. He said the wear and tear on his car, coupled with fuel costs, was just too much for him to handle and that he could not see uprooting himself from his home. So the idea was shelved. Thank God for small miracles too, because I suspect that if we had done this he would have treated this new place just like his old place.

Anyway, a few days passed after that particular conversation. We had the chance to speak again a few days later. During that conversation, he told me he thought I was right and that he did think he needed a roommate but that he wanted me to be the roommate and he wanted me to move into his basement.

Naturally, I had my reservations because of the filth at his place and his personality is so different from mine, but he assured me that he would clean the place and get it in shape so that it would be a healthy environment for me. I thought about it and after a few days and gave him a call. I spoke to him and said that as long as he understood the place needed to be clean I could deal with it. So, the agreement was made and I told my landlord to start looking for another tenant.

Well, that was two months ago. My brother had the whole month of April to get things in order. By the third week of April he had done nothing. His place was not ready. Not by a long-shot. In the meantime however, my landlady had rented my apartment out and I was in panic.

Where was I going to go? My brother had basically done what he has always done: He put things off so much that by the time he started to work on the apartment he realized that he had bitten off more than he could chew. There was no way he was going to have the place ready in time for me to move in. I began to pray that God would make my place available for one more month, and against all odds He did make it available. The people who leased the place backed out at the last minute which meant I could rent it if I wanted.

My brother had begged me for more time and I told him that my place was still available and that I could possibly take it for one more month, which is what I did. All of this came to pass because my brother was not ready. I had my place still. All was fine with my world and we moved forward.

My brother now had the month of May to get the Apartment ready. This was graduation weekend at his place of employment however. He was so busy and so tired at the end of the day that he just didn't have the energy to get the apartment ready. So, he failed to follow through to the extent necessary to allow for a roommate. For all of his forthcoming criticism of me for wanting to back out at the last minute, he has done nothing BUT wait until the last minute all his life. And it not only costs him, it costs those around him.

Two weeks from the end of May my brother had not done much to the basement. I was having second thoughts. I told him so. The fights began to happen any time we spoke. He was not moving fast enough and I needed to get on with my life. I should have just renewed my lease then, but my brother was looking at getting behind on rent and possibly evicted. Besides, there was no way in hell anyone else would put up with his shenanigans and he stood a scant chance of finding a roommate until his house was in order. So I was torn between two loyalties: one to myself and one to family.

I knew my brother needed help, that much is true. But I also knew I didn't feel right about leaving. My brother needed a roommate, but I didn't. Why then should I move in with him? Again I asked him to come live with me. The upstairs 3-BR apartment was no longer available, but my place was and while it was smaller, it could do for a while. He refused again, saying that there was no way he was going to uproot himself from his home and that he was going to hold me to my commitment to move into his place, even though he had failed to follow through on his end: the apartment was still filthy and in even more disarray than before. There was no way my stuff, scant though it was, would fit in the basement he wanted me to rent out. I was looking at storage facilities as a potential cost and I was really unhappy and angry at this point.

So, you now get the picture, don't you? Two months ago, my brother promised me big changes in his place. He wanted me for a roommate, because according to him I represented the least amount of lifestyle change for him, and he promised he would get his place livable for me. Moreover, I didn't want him to get evicted. I wanted to help him. He is my brother after all. In spite of the contentious history he and I have, I felt I could handle the idea of living with him as long as the place was clean.

Now we are down to the wire with one week to go, folks, and it's clear my brother has no place for me to put my things!! Of course, he is feeling the pressure of financial commitments too. I am looking at having to store my belongings in a facility. I no longer want to move in with him at all and my landlady needs to know what I am going to do. She needs a decision, and oh by the way....did I mention that my brother managed to lose his job? Yup. He lost his job exactly one week from the move. His firing/resignation is another story unto itself, but the timing of this information could not have been worse. I had actually called him to tell him there was no way I was moving in with him when he dropped this bomb on me. It floored me. How was I going to back out now? How could I tell my own brother on the day he gets fired that I am backing out on him. So, I let him know that I would be there for him.

Well, at this point we are six days away from the end of the month. My brother is frantic. He is expecting me to move in even though we have had countless fights and even though I had expressed my reservations and lack of desire to move in with him. Because he had lost his job I agreed to go ahead with this transition, even though I suspected I would be miserable as a result. To make things worse, a small girl next door to me had falling in love with me. She adored me and we were great friends. She was just so adorable, and she did not want me to move. I was really in a tight spot. I didn't have the strength to do what I knew I needed to do because if I stayed put, my brother would be devastated. But you know, the Spirit is strong, and it had been telling me what to do all month long.

As we approached D-Day, I called my brother. After much prayer I knew what I needed to do, and even though it was difficult I made the decision to let my brother down.

I called him and told him I could not do this move. He told me that if I backed out on him I was a bastard and that with all the shit he had on him he was not about to let me dump more shit on him by pulling out of this arrangement we had. The day before the move was to take place, I called him once more at home. It was 10:30 PM. I begged and pleaded with him. It was the eleventh hour, and I didn't to go through with this. I begged him to let me out of this commitment and he just hung up on me.

So, there it was. I was going to have to do this thing. I could not hurt my brother by leaving him in the lurch like this. I loved him, so how could I do that t o him? But as much as I loved him, I now resented him too. He was in a tough spot. I know this. I know he was scared. But I also perceived that he was being selfish and self-centered about this. I perceived he was unhealthy emotionally. And I was going to force myself to move in with this human being? And why? How emotionally healthy does it make me, that I would leave my peaceful environs, my dreams and visions, just to save a person who has so mismanaged his life that he could not survive without crisis intervention?

The next day I woke up at 3:00 AM and sat on my bed and nearly vomited. I felt like I was about to be executed and I was hours away from learning about the greatest mystery known to man: death. I prayed and prayed. I agonized. I wanted to pick up the phone and call my landlord just to arrange a meeting where I could renew my lease. I wanted to tell my brother to fend for himself. He created his mess, and he is responsible for his life. And yet, I didn't have the strength to do that. I was more concerned about avoiding feelings of guilt and looking like a traitor in my brothers eyes than I was about my own health, success and happiness. Imagine that!

By 9Am I was a mess. I was pacing my apartment like a caged animal, trying to work up the intestinal fortitude to do what was best for me. As a Christian, this seemed counterintuitive. Were we not suppose to be our brothers keeper? Are we not suppose to put the needs of others above our own? Or did I misunderstand the teachings of Christ so much that I was about to make one of the biggest mistakes of my life, and for all of the wrong reasons?

By noon, I had managed to force myself to walk out of the apartment, get in my car and head down the road to my demise. As I drove toward town to get the rental truck, the resentment of my brother rose to a crescendo. I was feeling such loathing for him, or was it for myself for doing what I felt was so wrong to do? I had no reason to be upset with my brother. Not really. It was myself I was upset with. I had a wonderful life that I decided to throw away in order to help someone else who I now resented. And yet I kept driving, like a herd of swine collectively rushing off a cliff to its death, driven by some unseen force.

I spent $220.00 to get the truck and the damn storage facility where all my life would be stored. Especially my weights. My precious weights. And for how long? A day? A month? A year? And all for a brother who up until recently never really had much in common with me. We didn't really even like each other all that much. At least not very often.

Needless to say the day was rough. It was full or regret. Getting the rental truck was weird. I felt so numb, I was so exhausted that I didn't have time for sitting down and counting the cost of my decision. My brother, who had wanted to help me, rode with me out to my place in the rental truck. We barely spoke.

When we got to my place in the country it was 4PM. This little girl in the apartment complex saw me back the truck into my parking space. She was the little one I mentioned earlier who had grown so attached to me. She came running out of her apartment , those little five year old legs barely holding her up, and she just collapsed into my legs, crying so hard. It was so hard for us both. She counted on me to be there for her, and I let her down. I was crushed. My brother stood there watching this unfold and he appeared to be unmoved, though he denies this.

I was hoping my brother would see this anguishing display, walk into my apartment, turn around and say, "Tim, this just isn't right. It feels all wrong. Stay here." Instead, he walked into my apartment, took one look at it and said, "You are not ready. You are not packed. This is going to be hard to do." Of course, this was untrue, I was packed. But that is beside the point. He was getting what he wanted. And I was not.

We loaded the truck and by 6PM what remained in my apartment could be gotten by car. We drove to the storage facility nearby and it was closed! This meant I had to take my brother all the way back to town and then drive the truck ALL the way back out into the country where I would sleep in my apartment overnight for what would be the last time, or so I thought.

The very next morning, I woke up and was so tempted to just unload the truck that we had packed the day before. I wanted so much to do it. But I was to exhausted by then to make the mental leap necessary to change direction. I just went forward with the plan.

I unloaded the truck, took it back to town, got into my car, came back out to my place again and spent one last night in my place. It was so sad to do this and for so many reasons. The bottom line is I was committed, or should have been committed.

Postscript:

I have been at my brothers place three nights and already I want to leave. I have no reason to be here. None that I can see. And yet the $220.00 I spent on the move, the $200.00 I gave to my brother for partial rent and the $160.00 I spent on the Voynage phone system has so damaged my bank balance that I am not sure I could move back to my place even if I wanted to. Yet, that is what I want to do. The question is will I? Should I?

Oh, and one more thing. Over the last five years I have had several friends who stuck by me closer that a brother. One, who is someone I love with all my heart, is a sweet lady in Canada. The best friend I have ever had, really. We have spoken to each other 4-5 times a day for the last five years. She is my soul mate of sorts. She loves me too. Her name is Bunny. I had a phone calling plan that allowed me to speak to her as much as I wanted. That too, is now gone. My brother uses Sprint, not Verizon, and Sprint has no such calling plan. Hence the need for Voynage, if I wanted to stay in touch with Bunzer.

At present, I feel weak, underweight, sick and tired. I am at my brothers place to make HIM feel secure. Yet, if I were back at my place I would still be in a flow of faith and blessing, I would be working out and looking forward to a bright future. Now, that vision and focus has been damaged.

In the end, I love my brother, but just because I love him does not mean if I help him I will be happy. I have learned this lesson the hard way. If I don't help him, I will feel remorse as well. It is a difficult place to be in.

I suppose I could sit down and itemize it. I could look at the pro's and con's of the two situations, but really do I need to do that? The Spirit doesn't look at pro's and con's. It looks at Truth and Peace. That is what the Spirit tried to teach me the other day. I just have to have the courage to do what is right for me.

To learn more about Strength Training For The Management of Cystic Fibrosis, click here.

9 Tips For The Backtoschool Mom Organization Is Everything

2009-01-19T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Karen Fusco

Well, just about everything. If you're a mom who's headed back to school, you want to get serious about time management, delegating, well, everything. Here are nine tips to help you get both you and your children back to school easily, confidently and most importantly, quickly!

1. Ditch Perfectionism. The dust on top of the furniture? Protective covering. Smudge on the front door? All your best friends come to the back door anyway. Perfection isn't everything, especially when you have a test to prepare for.

2. Delegate. Even young childrenand husbands!can pitch in. And they should, no matter what Mom's doing. Helping gives children (and Dads) a feeling of competence and confidence which helps their self-esteem (yes, Dads, too).

3. Be Realistic. No one, not even Oprah or Martha Stewart, has it all or can do it all. Don't believe me? Then tell me why Oprah just gave her best friend a million dollars? For all the help she gave Oprah along the way, that's why. Celebrities have staffs who do it all for them, they don't do it themselvesand neither can you, unless you employ a staff of 20 full-time people. Keep expectations of what you can and cannot do in any 24-hour day realistic, and both you and your family will be a lot happier.

4. Flexibility Is Queen Every Day. When you're juggling school, work and family, you have to be flexible and be able to shift priorities quickly. Think of life as one large yoga exercise, and be ready to bend and stretch as needed, when needed.

5. Play Beat The Clock. Setting deadlines is a great way to motivate you to take care of the most important priorities. Create deadlines for your tough chores and assignments (and your children's) and put a portion of your time aside each day to tackle the largest ones. This will keep you from getting crazed the night before your midterm when your son's science project is due the next day.

6. Organize, Organize, Organize. Don't just talk about it, do it. Pack lunches, lay out clothes, bathe, get book bags ready, and set out dishes and non-perishable breakfast items the night before. This will not only save you time in the mornings, but also make them far less stressful overall. Have a place for everythingmake sure everyone knows where those places are, and let them go there all by themselves!

7. Know Your Prime Time. Everyone has a time of day or night when they perform some tasks better than others. For example, studying may be easier at night after everyone's gone to bed, and mornings are your best time for household chores. Take time to learn what your prime time is for the truly important tasks you need to accomplish dailythen use it to your advantage.

8. Don't Learn To Say No, Say It! We all know how to say "No", we simply don't do it often enough. Don't let yourself be bullied or guilt-tripped into taking on projects or volunteer work that strips you of valuable time you need to spend elsewhere. You won't be in school forever, and those volunteer organizations will still be around when you're finished and have more time.

9. Reward Yourself. You are marvelous, Mom! Just look at everything you do every dayand on top of it all, you're acing school and making it to your daughter's swim meets and your son's soccer games, and on time! Have that bowl of ice cream (two scoops is fine, really), and give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it!

Karen Fusco is co-founder of http://www.SilkBow.com which supports Busy Moms with free gift ideas and helpful tips to meet the challenges of motherhood. SilkBow is the perfect place for the perfect gift. Karen can be reached directly at: karen@SilkBow.com.

Need Some Fun Ideas For The Summer Season Try A Pool Party Bbq

2009-01-18T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

The hot season can get a little boring after a while and one way to help break the monotony is to throw a summer BBQ party for yourself, your family and your friends. In setting up a BBQ it never hurts to think about themes. What theme would you like? In an effort to stay cool many people combine their BBQ's with a pool or beach party.

In place of that you could create an Under the Sea BBQ, especially if you have little kids. All you'd need for the group to have fun at this party is a kiddy pool filled with water and sand and a lawn sprinkler, preferably far from the BBQ. You can also blow up some inflatable sea creatures and scatter them around the lawn or house for kids to play with and if you can get some seashells and driftwood to create a centerpiece on the buffet table where you'll be placing the food once it's grilled. Food for this party could be predominantly grilled seafood.

A Hawaiian BBQ can add an exotic flavor to your party. For food how about grilled pork and pineapple Kabobs. This is a party you can hold closer towards evening and make use of lighted tiki torches and decorative outdoor lighting. The tables can hold lighted citronella candles to help keep the bugs away. Invite everyone to wear a Hawaiian shirt and hand out Leis as party favors. Play Hawaiian music in the background and later on set up a good game of limbo. Just make sure the guests stretch a little to get limber for this activity.

In the end all you need for a good summer BBQ party theme is good imagination and creativity to help you set the atmosphere and lead your guests to have a great time.

How To Choose A Waste Management Company

2009-01-18T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Natalie Aranda

Whether you are an individual or a business, you will need to choose a waste management company. Waste management companies are responsible for picking up your garbage and transporting it to an appropriate landfill. Many waste management companies offer environmental services as well such as recycling.

The first step is to locate the providers of waste management in your area. This is easily accomplished by looking in a phone book. You should call each service and ask them some key questions. First, find out how often they come to collect your trash. A service that comes twice a week might cost more, but can prove to be helpful if you have a larger household. If you need special equipment such as a dumpster, you will want to ask about that too. Find out how many trash bags you are allowed to put out per pickup. Many companies have limits on what you are allowed to throw away. If you know you will go over the limit, you will probably want to go with a company who provides more flexibility in the amount of trash you are allowed to put outside. Some companies will charge you for the additional bags and you don't want to be stuck with a surprise bill. Also, find out how often you are billed and how. Some companies will want you to only pay their drivers. This can be quite inconvenient. You will not be happy when you have to go outside in the snow at 5 AM to drop off your check. Check to see if the company offers recycling service along with the trash pickup.

Although these are the basics, you might want to ask some additional questions. Waste management companies often care about the environment. They try to reduce waste and help keep our country as clean as possible.

If this is also important to you, you should question what type of environmental services the company uses. For instance, many waste management trucks will run off of clean natural gas instead of diesel fuel. Some waste management companies are taking the methane gas that is naturally produced by landfills and collecting and processing it in order to produce energy. This energy can be used to replace millions of barrels of oil a year. Landfill gas could possibly be a very viable way of producing clean energy through environmental services provided by waste management companies.

Some people just select their waste management company based on price or how often they will pick up your trash. However, it is a good idea to take some time and look into what your waste management company is doing to protect the environment. If you are going to pay for trash removal anyway, why not give your money to company who is helping provide us with a cleaner, healthier environment?

Natalie Aranda writes on home and family. Whether you are an individual or a business, you will need to choose a waste management company. Waste management companies are responsible for picking up your garbage and transporting it to an appropriate landfill. Many waste management companies offer environmental services as well such as recycling. Some people just select their waste management company based on price or how often they will pick up your trash. However, it is a good idea to take some time and look into what your waste management company is doing to protect the environment.

The Art Of Juggling Career Family And Education

2009-01-17T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Travis Waack

Can you find the time to do it all - career, family, continue education? Having trouble jugging? Some problems in this area that people face are very similar to those of the beginning juggler. According to The Instant Jugglers' Manual, (c)1993 Infinite Illusions/Lofty Pursuits, four common problems are handling two areas of focus at the same time, moving forward while you try to juggle instead of standing still, not being able to juggle in a third area of focus, and keeping all three areas from bumping into each other or overlapping. So let's take a look at some solutions to these problems.

Two at Once

To juggle two objects, you first toss one into the air to about eye level, then toss number two. The same with life. Pick any two areas of focus, and only try to tackle one at a time to establish goals and a system for it in your life. Then work in the second area. And just as juggling wouldn't work if the wrist puts too much or too little force into the toss, causing one or both objects to go too high or too low, the same can happen in life. If established goals are too high or low, not compatible with one another and your lifestyle, that juggling act doesn't stand much chance.

For instance, if fictitious person, John Doe, wants to complete a doctoral program, yet only earns minimum wage, he may need financial assistance with his continued education to balance the act. Otherwise, John could have to work over time and take on a second job to fill gaps and pay bills. He may miss out on valuable family time with his wife and young son and become stressed out and exhausted. Not to mention his grades could take a dive! Student loans, grants and work-study could be some possible solutions in this case.

Where is juggling help? Instead of The Instant Jugglers' Manual, there are many resources available to help with juggling career, family and education. Local colleges are a good place to start.

Not Being Able To Juggle In A Third

Ready to add a third factor into the equation? Concentrate on throwing ball number 3 and do not even try to catch ball 2, advises The Instant Jugglers' Manual. Or once you have two areas of focus pretty much underway, say your career and family, add the third education.

Get help planning your education into the mix with resources. Head to your local educational center or public libraries for help. Don't get left dropping or not juggling the ball.

Travis Waack has authored numerous articles on various topics of interest. You may find the education resources at http://education.online-002.com/education.html to be very helpful in your search for all things related to school, online degrees, education and more.

How To Give The Quotgift Of A Lifetimequot

2009-01-16T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Van Day

Giving that special someone a special gift can be very difficult. Depending on the situation and occasion, it can be a very tricky thing. You want to do the right thing, but if you're not careful, it can backfire. As many have found out, you need to give this some considerable thought.

But everyone wants to give the "right" gift. What makes up a great gift?

In my experience, a great gift:

Is truly unique, personal and creative;
Demonstrates to the recipient the thoughtfulness and caring that went into securing the gift;
Evokes emotions from the recipient whenever it is used, seen or thought about; and
Makes the recipient truly feel special.

A great gift doesn't necessarily have to cost hundreds or thousands of dollars to be great. But also understand that getting a gift that is cheap can show how much "you don't care." Before you start to shop and buy, also consider the following:

1. Who is the recipient? Is it your spouse, significant other, sibling, parents, relative, close friends, neighbor or business associate?

2. Next, what is the occasion? Holiday, birthday, anniversary, graduation, wedding, engagement, promotion, a "just because" occasion, or "I-need-to-get-out-of- the-doghouse-occasion?"

3. Be yourself. The gift is from you, so make sure it shows it. But be appropriate, and be sure the gift is something that the recipient will relate to and enjoy.

4. Try to avoid excessiveness. Simple gifts tend to also be very well received.

5. Don't wait until the last minute. It only gives you too little time to get a great gift, and also shows how much you don't care.

Being creative is a fantastic way to ensure getting the right gift. People love it when it's obvious their gift required some imagination and creativity. So as you're going through the "what do I get them" process, remember that a little bit of creativity, uniqueness and personalization will go a long, long way!

The true measure of a great gift will be seen in the eyes of the recipient when they get it. You'll know it, you'll feel it, and you'll feel great yourself when you've given the "Great Gift"!

About The Author

Van Day is a renowned pianist and musician, and creator of "Piano Music 4 You.com ." "Piano Music 4 You" specializes in creating personalized, custom and unique CDs of piano music, created especially for each customer and all occasions. He can be reached at vanday@pianomusic4you.com.

http://www.pianomusic4you.com

Creative Tips And Ideas For Hosting A Baby Shower

2009-01-15T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Rose L

The addition of a new baby into the life of one of your close friends or family member is indeed a time to celebrate. One of the best ways that you can show that you care is by helping the mother to be get ready for her new arrival by hosting a baby shower.

More than just a way to shower the expecting mother with more baby bottles than she could possibly use, adorable baby clothes, and a year's supply of diapers, the baby shower is also a great way to show emotional support and female solidarity during a time that is full of ups and downs. And the baby shower also presents the perfect opportunity for the whole gang to get together and have a ridiculously good time.

So, if you have been bestowed the honor of hosting a baby shower for someone who is close to you, you no doubt want to organize an event that will be truly appreciated and worthy of your guest of honor. While there are many wrong and right ways to throw a baby shower, you can ensure a successful one by following and using some of the tips and ideas in this article. Choosing a theme

Choosing a theme for the baby shower is perhaps the easiest way that you can make your baby shower stand out from the numerous other showers that women attend in their lifetimes. A theme also presents the perfect opportunity to tailor the shower to suit your guest of honor's unique personality and needs.

A baby shower theme can range from something very simple like choosing blue or pink decorations to coincide with the baby's sex or to very elaborate such as hosting a day of pampering for the mother to be. What you choose will be largely decided by how much time you have to dedicate to organizing the shower and what type of theme would be most appreciated by your guest of honor. Here are just a couple of ideas to help you choose your baby shower theme:

Deep freeze.
I thought this was a novel and great way to help out the expecting couple who already has everything they need for their new arrival. In this themed baby shower, guests bring a frozen dish or meal that can be heated up and consumed during the early, hectic days after the new baby arrives. If you've ever had children, you can just imagine what a great help this would be to exhausted new parents.

Books for the baby shower.
You can take this theme as far as you want to. From having guests bring books to add to the new arrival's library to carrying the theme into the decorations and refreshments, the limits of your imagination and creativity are the only limits you will encounter with this theme.

Choosing the right baby shower games
Baby shower games can be a great way to break the ice and add some fun and entertainment to your baby shower. When selecting the games to include in your shower, be sure to keep your theme in mind and the sensibilities of your guest of honor.

Here are a few ideas:
Baby Quiz. Ask the grandparents to write down what the parents were like as babies. Have them include vital statistics such as time of birth, height, weight, first tooth, first smile, age when toilet trained, and early indications of personality. Based on that information, make up a quiz about the future parents to hand out to guests. The person with the most correct answers wins a prize.

Guess the Girth.
Check with the guest of honor in advance on this one. Some women may find it a bit too personal, but if she's not shy, it can be a lot of fun. All you need is a ball or two of string. Ask guests to cut a length of string that they think will stretch around the future mom's belly. After everyone has had a turn, the mother-to-be measures and cuts a string that fits her belly. Compare her string to all the guests' pieces of string. The person who was closest wins.

As you can see from just these few ideas, baby showers do not have to be ordinary and boring. If you have been asked to host a baby shower, incorporate some of these and your own ideas to create a baby shower that will not be forgotten any time soon.

By Rose Lenk
For more babyshower information visit http://www.TrulyBaby.com

Adoption The Ultimate In Red Tape

2009-01-15T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Michael Russell

An associate of mine finds it very interesting that any couple in this world, no matter how rich or poor, no matter what they do for a living, no matter if they have a criminal record or not, no matter what kind of persons they are, can have as many kids as they like and nobody can say one word about it.

But when a middle class, hard working, law abiding couple wants to adopt a child they have to jump through more hoops than a clown at a three ring circus. He wonders why.

In this article we'll try to explain some of the problems and red tape associated with a couple trying to adopt a child.

For starters, adoption law varies from state to state. Yes, there are laws, and depending on where you live those laws can be quite different but there are some laws that are pretty common across the board. There is the Consent to Adoption. This consent refers to the agreement by a parent, or a person or agency acting in place of a parent, to relinquish the child for adoption and to release all rights and duties with respect to that child. In other words before you can adopt the child the birth parent or agency in charge, if the birth parents are dead, has to give consent for the adoption to take place.

Then there is the parties to adoption. In order for an adoption to take place, a person available to be adopted must be placed in the home of a person or persons eligible to adopt. All States, the District of Columbia, and the US territories Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands have laws that specify which persons are eligible as adopting parents, and which persons can be adopted. In other words they decide whether or not they think the adoptive parents are fit and this varies from state to state.

So who CAN adopt? Generally speaking anyone over the age of 18 but in some states 21 and still in others the minimum age is 25. Again, this is all state regulated. There are some states that allow minors to adopt under certain circumstances but this is very rare. In some states the adopting parents must be at least 10 years older than the child. So if you want to adopt a 15 year old boy you have to be at least 25 years of age. Then there is the residency question. Most states require that you be living at your current residence for at least 60 days.

So who can BE adopted? Generally, anyone under the age of 18. Of course depending on the state there are some additional requirements. For example, in some states the child has to be living in that state at the time of the adoption. So if you wanted to adopt someone from overseas you wouldn't be able to. In some states this extends further to the child having to be a resident for a certain length of time. Some states do allow the adoption of a person regardless of age but this is very rare.

Then there is the question of WHO can place a child for adoption. This is usually the birth parent or parents unless both are dead and then it is the agency to which custody of the child was appointed.

But this gets even more complicated. What if the birth mother and father are not married and the mother wants to put the child up for adoption but the father does not? This becomes an extremely messy situation. First there is the court battle between the mother and father to determine who gets the say in the matter. In most cases unless the mother is proven unfit the right to place the child up for adoption is granted. If not, however, then a determination has to be made as to whether or not the father is given custody of the child. We are assuming at this point that since he was against the adoption that he will want to keep the child, but he is in no way legally obligated to do this and can put the child up for adoption at a later date.

Then there are the adoption fees. In most states the adoptive parents have to pay these fees and they can be enormous, going into the tens of thousands of dollars. My associate thinks this is absurd. The parents don't want the child but it's the adoptive parents who have to pay to get the child even though the child isn't wanted. Some would say that is hard logic to argue with. As you can see, adoption is not simple. Add to all the above that the adoption process can be a very lengthy one, sometimes taking years, it makes you wonder why anyone would go through the trouble. For that matter why would someone have to when there are so many unwanted children in the world?

It gives you something to think about.

-------------------------------------------------------
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Adoption
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Family Movie Find The Right Dvd Movie Club For Your Family

2009-01-14T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Mike Dougherty

Looking for a good online family movie club or family movie review?

Family movies sell lots of tickets at the box office and every year there are one or more blockbuster movies that are family films.

But with the high price of movie tickets and theatre concessions, watching movies on DVD as a family movie night in the comfort of your own home, is quickly becoming very popular.

Online DVD Movie Clubs

Online there are a number of DVD movie clubs that include family movies in their rental libraries, but only a few actually specialize in providing quality family fare.

While other companies produce some family pictures, none has come close to the huge library of movies that Disney has given us.

Walt Disney brought us Steamboat Willie in 1928 starring Mickey Mouse and in 1973, the Disney Studios gave us Snow White, the first feature length animated movie.

Disney Movie Club

Online the Disney Movie Club offers their signature classic movies, recent releases, preschool videos, sing-a-long video and other popular family choices.

Movie Clubs

Other online family movie clubs include Family Pass (formerly known as Mentura) which bills itself as "your ticket to family entertainment." Family Pass carries a wide selection of movies, television programs, educational and home school videos and spiritual fare. All targeted at a family audience.

Edited Movies

Another popular source of movies suitable for family viewing comes from companies that specialize in editing movies to remove profanity, excessive violence and more adult situations.

Club members can rent the edited, version of popular movies that might otherwise be far less than family friendly.

Online clubs that edit movies include CleanFilms, Flick's Club, Family Edited DVDs and CleanFlix to name a few.

DVD Software Filters

A company called ClearPlay offers DVD software that removes graphic violence, profanity and more adult situations. Movie filters are put together for specific movies and ClearPlay's list continues to grow.

Family Movie Reviews

Online is also a great place to discover family movie review sites that help parents when it comes to deciding which movies to see in theatres or on DVD.

The Dove Foundation, long a family movie advocate, provides online movie and video reviews. And if you're out shopping for movies or videos at your favorite store, you can look for the Dove Foundation's Seal of Approval (much like the "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval"). The Dove Foundation's seal is only awarded to movies and videos that meet certain family viewing standards and have been screened and reviewed by Dove Foundation reviewers.

Other movie reviews available online include The Family Style Movie Guide, Movie Mom, Screen It!, Family Cow, Grading the Movies, Kids-In-Mind, and Ted Baehr's MovieGuide which examines and rates movies from a Christian value stand point.

Family Movie Night

Watching movies at home on DVD as a special night for the entire family has become very popular.

Why spend a small fortune taking your family to see a movie at a theatre when you can have quality fun time in your own home? With a special movie night you control the films your family sees. No more unpleasant surprises! And you're guaranteed the best seat in the house.

DVD Movie Club

It's easy to join an online movie club that offers movies for the family or better yet "specializes" in family movies and video.

So take a look at what's on the internet and join a family movie club. Most offer a variety of special benefits to club members that make online club membership very convenient and affordable.

Then pick up some delicious popcorn and some other treats and start the wonderful tradition of family movie night in your home, a tradition you and your children will fondly remember for years to come.

And remember, some of the best and most popular films of all time have been family movies.

Mike Dougherty is a screen writer and certified movie buff. "The Long Ride Home" a family western starring Randy Travis is based on Mr. Dougherty's short script. For more information on the Disney Movie Club, visit http://www.fun-kid-birthday-parties.com/disney-movie-club.html

Support School Fundraisers Even Though There May Seem To Be Many Of Them

2009-01-14T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Peter Crump

School fundraisers are necessary even though many people and parents complain that the local school is always fund raising. The money raised through school fundraisers goes into such things as field trips and equipment that the school cannot afford to purchase on its own.

Schools are always trying to find different fund raising ideas so that they have fundraising events that offer something unique and make people want to attend. Bake sales and car washes are old-fashioned fund raising ideas that people are getting tired of. While school fund raisers are necessary, neither the administration nor the parents want to have the children always going door to door selling different items.

Some of the popular fund raising events that draw a crowd to the school fund raisers are those that offer an opportunity for the whole family to have fun and win prizes. A carnival day or a supper is one fund raising idea that brings in a lot of money if you can get some of the businesses in the area to donate the prizes. No matter how much money you raise when everything is donated, you don't have any expenses.

School fund raisers often involve selling cookies, candy or calendars. One of the fund raising events that is always popular around Christmas is a flea market. This doesn't even seem like a fund raiser because those who want to sell any used items or crafts for Christmas pay a fee to set up a table. At the same time the school can operate a canteen or sell hotdogs to add to the money being raised.

Another popular fund raising idea is to sell discount cards or coupon booklets. The discount cards can offer a percentage off common items that parents buy for themselves or school supplies for the children. The cost of the booklet of discount coupons is substantially less than the amount of money that you save. For this event the school simple has to announce that it is having a fund raising event and send home booklets with each student. If the parents do not wish to purchase them, they simply send them back. More often than not though, the students come back looking for more booklets to sell to their relatives. Family members are good supporters of school fund raisers.

School fundraisers are common, but necessary.

Grandfather Clock Do It Yourself Repair Part Ii

2009-01-13T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Michael Russell

In this second article of our "repair your grandfather clock on your own" series we're going to go over some other things you can do on your own before taking your prized possession to a very expensive repair shop.

In our first article we went over what to do if the pendulum doesn't swing. Next we're going to go over what to do if the clock runs too fast or too slow.

If the clock is running to fast or too slow what you need to do is adjust your pendulum bob. That big round disk at the end of your pendulum is your pendulum bob. You adjust your pendulum bob with the nut located at the bottom of the bob. This is what adjusts the timing. If the bob is raised up this will make the clock run faster. If the bob is lowered this will make the clock run slower. You can expect to get this accurate to within one minute fast or slow per week. Better than that, consider yourself lucky.

Start by setting your grandfather clock to a standard electric or quartz clock or watch. Then check the time against the clock 24 hours later. If the clock is running fast, turn the nut to the left. If the clock is running slow, turn the nut to the right. Then reset the time on your clock and check it again in another 24 hours. Keep performing this process until the clock appears to be running on time. Expect to do this every week at least. Keep a record of the distance you turned the nut each time so you will have an idea of how much you'll need to turn it in the future.

Eventually the timing will be accurate enough so that you'll only have to check the clock once each week and it should never be off by more than a minute. Just a tip. Some grandfather clocks are made so that a full turn of the nut is actually equal to one minute. So if your clock is running 2 minutes fast then all you need to do is turn the nut two full turns to the left and this will set the timing correctly. Of course the only way to know if your clock is one of these is to test this theory out.

Some grandfather clocks actually have two nuts attached to the bottom of the pendulum. If your clock is one of these then most likely it is a very accurate clock. Many clock owners believe the bottom nut is a lock nut against the top nut. This is not true. Actually you must make sure that the bottom and top nuts do not touch. Let the top nut raise or lower the pendulum bob until you've gotten the timekeeping as accurate as possible. Then by either turning left or right use the weight of the top nut to make your final adjustments to your clock's timing.

In our last article we'll go over some more tips on getting your grandfather clock running up to speed.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Grandfather Clocks

Where To Find The Largest Selection Of Birthday Party Supplies

2009-01-12T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

For busy working adults, shopping for birthday party supplies is a task that takes much too much time. Most people are looking for somewhere they can go and get everything they need at one store. Not a difficult task except that they are also looking for a large selection from which to choose. That is a more difficult task in many cases. Being able to find everything you need at one store means knowing where to shop.

Depending how much time you have to shop, you can either choose a party store in your local area or shop any time you want by find an online party store. If you are pressed for time, the Internet is open twenty-four hours a day seven days a week, so you can shop any time that you have a few minutes. Not only do you not need to leave your house, you can search for the exact theme you want or browse through all of them in order to choose one that is appropriate for the birthday party recipient.

Unlike shopping in a local store, the online shopping experience allows you to browse as long as you want without having to be concerned with store hours or walking up and down the aisles trying to find the exact party supplies that you need. Shopping for party supplies becomes frustrating when you have find the party decorations, and then find you have to go half way across the store to find plates, cups, and other things; at least this is the case with an adult party, though children's supplies are all together except for balloons in most party stores. Online there are no aisles to walk and no check out line, so you're free to browse all you want from the comfort of your own chair, and when you are finished, check out with no one else in line making you wait. It's the best way for the busy shopper.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Free Party Games for every occasion, birthday, holiday and party theme including free printable games and activities. Plus, free baby shower games, bridal shower games, birthday party games, printable party games, TV Trivia, Movie Trivia games. All the games have easy instructions. Over 1,000 free party games for baby showers, bridal showers, holiday celebrations and kids birthday parties. Also, printable activities for kids parties, baby showers and bridal showers.

Could You Have An Identical Twin

2009-01-12T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Nick Smith

I am not a twin myself, but if I were I would definitely want to be an identical twin. There is just something amazing about having someone else in the world with my exact DNA, down to the last amino acid. Most people think of twins as being either identical or fraternal, but there are many different types of twins.

Identical Twin - Identical twins are born when a fertilized egg, or zygote, splits in two. Because the egg is fertilized by one sperm cell, and it is the sperm cell that determines the sex of the child, identical twins are always the same sex.

The two children share 100% of their DNA, meaning that the most complex DNA test could not tell the difference between the two. There are differences, however, in the phenotype, or physical expression of the DNA, that helps people distinguish between one identical twin and the other. Though they share the same genotype, they have different teeth and finger prints, for example.

Half- Identical Twin - Half- identical twins are born when the egg splits prior to being fertilized, and the two new cells are fertilized by two different sperm. The siblings share 25% of their DNA.

Monoamniotic Monochrionic Twins - Depending on how long after conception the egg splits in two, identical twins may share the same yolk sac, chrionic sac, and amniotic sac. Twins that share all three sacs are known as monoamniotic monochrionic twins, and there are several health risks that are associated with this situation. There is an increased risk of tangling with an umbilical cord, because the identical twin not only has to worry about her own cord, but also that of her sister. The twins have a greater risk of TTTS (Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome) where the placenta is unevenly shared - thus, one gets too much blood and the other gets too little.

Mirror Twin - Some 25% of identical twins are mirror twins. They have mirror image finger prints, one is left-handed and the other is right-handed, and their hair spirals in opposite directions.

Conjoined Twin - Commonly called Siamese twins, they are monoamniotic monochrionic twins who never completely separate. Thus, when they are born they share some part of their body. Often their hips or shoulders, and more rarely their heads, are connected. The majority of conjoined twins are mirror twins. Several successful surgical separations have been performed, allowing the twins to live normal lives.

Fraternal Twin - Far more common are fraternal twins, who come from two different eggs fertilized by two different sperm cells. They share 50% of their DNA just as other siblings born at different times do.

Twins of Two - When two separate eggs are fertilized by two different men, twins of two are conceived. The children are genetically half-siblings and share just 25% of their DNA.

One hundred years ago, the average parents of twins would have had to guess whether they were identical or fraternal. Nowadays, in addition to sophisticated medical equipment available, parents can have DNA tests done to determine what type of twins their children are.

Nick Smith is an internet marketer specializing in ranking automation. For information about DNA testing for your identical twin, visit Genetree.com.

Spa Gazebos Hot Tub Gazebos

2009-01-11T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by J.J. Nielson

You have found the best resource to survey and pick the perfect hot tub gazebo for your environment. Imagine the pleasure of relaxing in your Jacuzzi surrounded by your beautiful new gazebo. You can find a hot tub gazebo in square, hexagon, or octagon shape. These wonderful structures come in all sizes. Many people choose 10' x 10' but you may wish to 15 foot square, or even larger. Your gazebo can become a small outdoor room where your activities may expand beyond the spa experience.

Besides providing beauty and atmosphere, your hot tub gazebo will shield you somewhat from the elements. Some manufacturers have designed their gazebos to include panels which can be installed to winterize the structure into a protected outdoor room. You will be hot tubbing in January, or including your spa in your holiday parties and gatherings.

Your new hot tub gazebo kit will come with easy instructions (for non-carpenters) and all the hardware you will need to put it together. With some you can get an installation video. If you prefer, hire experienced installers who can make it easy for you to get your kit together. Check out the variety of jacuzzi gazebos available and get set to create a delightful spa environment for your outdoor living enjoyment.

When you choose to add a spa environment to your back yard or deck, you want to make the experience the most private and comforting possible. With hot tub gazebos, you can surround your Jacuzzi with either a redwood type arbor or even add screens to keep flying insects away from your spa experience. You can find hot tub gazebos that come both pre-built, ready to assemble, or find plans for a gazebo if you have carpentry experience.

The great thing about hot tub gazebos is that you can add accents to them like built in bar tables, wine racks, and even add lighting and stereo systems to make the most out of your soothing bubbling spa experience. You can choose a model that is open to the stars so that you can sit back and relax the clear nights with your friends and family.

Also, don't forget to check if your hot tub gazebos have steps that lead into your hot tub. You can also add other barstools or benches that complement your new gazebo for cooling off times. You can even find a place to keep your towels warm and waiting for you the moment you step out of the water! Get started on your relaxation today by creating the ultimate escape right in your back yard.

J.J. Nielson is a successful graphic artist and published internet author.

For more information on spa gazebos and other patio furniture, visit our site at

www.best-patio-furniture-online.com

School Playground Equipment

2009-01-11T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Richard Romando

The school playground is the most accessible for most kids. The equipment should be ideally suitable for different age groups and it should also be safe, secure, durable, strong, as well as innovative and appealing.

School playground equipment no longer comprises of just swings, slides and see-saws. There are a wide range of rides and equipment available. These can also be custom designed to suit various needs and requirements.

Before buying school playground equipment measure the space and determine the size. the number of children who will be accessing the equipment at a given time, the age-range if there any special needs to be considered like children with disabilities. Then consider the budget, the type of activities to be included in the equipment and the provision of side amenities like benches, tables, bike racks or litter bins and the surface under the equipment .

As for the equipment itself, check whether it is suitable for accommodating many children at a time and durable against rough weather. Also be sure to check for any unsafe conditions such as extensions or protrusions that may poke or hanging ropes that might cause strangulation or cause the child to trip or fall. Ask yourself if the equipment is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly? Manufacturers do design environmentally friendly equipment that's durable as well as ecologically safe.

Other things to be considered are shipping details, assembly instructions and post-sales service. Remember that the price also includes the freight cost, the installation costs and the surfacing costs along with the equipment costs.

The Internet is a very good source for finding comprehensive information about playground equipment. There are several sites of manufacturers that would help you to locate the best equipment and to compare prices.

Playground Equipment provides detailed information about playground equipment, commercial playground equipment, school playground equipment, residential playground equipment and more. Playground Equipment is the sister site of Boat Ladders.

How To Party Without Feeling Pooped

2009-01-10T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Karen Fusco

Each year Busy Moms across America lose control when their child's birthday arrives. Bank accounts deplete. Parents argue. Everyone is exhausted. The situation becomes anything but fun. Here are 9 wonderful tips to turn your child's birthday into a blast without compromising your sanity or your savings.

Organize Your Child's Birthday Party Without Wearing Yourself and Your Savings Out!

1. Balance Your Budget! Most Moms notoriously overspend when their children's birthdays roll around. This can be avoided by setting a budget and planning in advance. When you create your budget consider your headcount, food, activities, party favors, prizes, decorations, and entertainment so you won't start spending haphazardly.

2. Start Early. You can't ever really say you didn't have time to plan. Your child's birthday inevitably falls on the same day each year faithfully. Since you know the date, why not plan in advance? Pace yourself so you won't be overwhelmed as it approaches.

3. Make An Agenda. The cake and decorations are great, but what will make a party sensational from a child's perspective are games and activities. Power pack your kid's party with the best games and entertainment and you'll be sure to get rave reviews from the youngsters. If you are having a party for tiny tots make sure you keep activities safe and loosely structured. Older kids are good with games that are more involved and interactive which last under 30 minutes. Teenagers pretty much can come up with activities independently. Upon approval, let your adolescent child have the responsibility of coming up with their birthday activity ideas and give feedback and suggestions.

4. Tailor a Theme. Once you come up with a theme, the ideas for your activities will begin to flow and come together beautifully. You can use your theme for everything from the menu to the décor and if you state the theme on the invitation it may even cross over into the presents.

5. Be Realistic. Don't try to do it all in one year. We all want our children to be happy. We all want to make their birthdays pleasantly memorable. But, if you overdo it you can be setting yourself up for failure in the future.

6. Communicate about the Plans. This isn't so much of an issue for toddlers and babies, but if you have children that can talk, you should begin to communicate the birthday plans with them. Be sure to let your son or daughter know your expectations of them as well as your expectations of their friends as precautionary measures in addition to the agenda of the party.

7. Recruit Help. This can save time, money and energy. Some of your girlfriends probably have many creative talents that you'd normally pay big bucks for. Others can lend a helping hand to cut cake or organize an activity. Have your husband step up to the plate, but be sure to give him tasks he can actually handle. If you ask him to bake the cake or clean the house, he most likely will shy away from the task. But ask him to bring out the grill or compliment his techno talents and he may be your videographer for the day! Hire older children or teens to assist. This is a great way to find extra help with games and activities. Make sure to leave any disciplinary actions to the adults because children don't respond well to discipline from their peers. Having extra help will have your child's party flowing better.

8. Cook Ahead. If you cook one or two days beforehand, you will save yourself the hassle of trying to prepare a child's feast in one morning. You don't want to spend your child's entire birthday held up in the kitchen over a hot stove, so it get out of the way early and enjoy the party.

9. Turn Off MTV! Mothers everywhere should beware of My Super Sweet 16. This MTV Reality show has teens everywhere begging for the ultimate celebrity style party of the year. If your teenage child has seen it, their perception of what a party should entail is sure to be altered. The Super Sweet 16 parties cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 dollars for one night.

How To Find True Inexpensive Gifts For The People On Your Gift List

2009-01-09T02:00:00.003-08:00

Writen by Gregg Hall

Gift giving is a way to show you care. During the holidays people become more aware of those in need around them. The urge to give gifts is natural but it doesn't have to break your budget.

There are many in need throughout the entire year although most people only think of giving to them at Christmas. There are many ways to give without spending a lot of money.

One of the best and most inexpensive gifts is your time. Helping deliver meals to shut ins, feeding the homeless, or even babysitting your neighbor's child are all examples. Many food pantries and shelters are overwhelmed with people at this time of year and would always welcome an extra set of hands. Anything from clothes to blankets to food is sometimes needed to be delivered to those in need.

Another inexpensive present to give is kindness. It may be a meal to an elderly neighbor or a helping hand to that tired looking mom in the grocery store. Kindness is often overlooked as the best gift worth giving. The best part is the fast return, better than any money market account. You will feel the joy instantly.

Using the skills you already have is a great way to give a present. If you can build offer to help fix something for someone. If you sew, make a warm sweater for the person you see living on the street. If you cook take a fresh cooked meal to someone in need like the person you watch buying only bread and potatoes from the store every week because they can't afford anything else. If you can read go to a school and volunteer your time, read to the kids who can't read. If you can listen, sit by the elderly woman on the bus who has no one to talk to. If you can write then write to a soldier in Iraq, then write to his wife and children in the US spending the holidays alone.

The holidays are also a good time to remember those serve others the rest of the year. Try giving a card to your doorman, garbage man, policeman even the minister. You can make a card using stamps or writing in calligraphy. Many people deserve a thank you card such as gas station attendant or the waitress who brought your food, even the bagger at the grocery store. A thank you note or letter will brighten their holiday.

There are many gifts that a person can give that don't cost anything. The only thing they cost is your time, energy, compassion and heart. During the holiday season you can give an inexpensive present that is worth more than all the money you have. Look around and then get busy!

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Birthday Balloons Delivered at http://www.balloonbouquetgifts.com

Memorialize Your Loved One With A Cremation Urn

2009-01-09T02:00:00.001-08:00

Writen by Jim Johnson

It is a fact of life that all of us will lose someone that we care about in death at some point, and although we may not be able to be with them any longer, it's a widely accepted part of the grieving process to memorialize them in a fitting way. There are many ways that this can be done today and the funeral industry has a wide variety of products that can help dignify the occasion.

However, one of the most time-honored and ancient of burial customs is that of cremation. The practice of cremation was the most predominat means of corpse disposal until the advent of Christianity in the Roman Empire. There were several reasons why cremation was popular among ancient cultures, and one was that fire was considered a purifying agent that would release the spirit of the deceased in the proper way and allow for a safe journey to their next life.

Of course, besides the philosophical or religious properties of cremation, the health benefits of the practice was never in doubt. Disposal of the body in this way eliminated the possiblility of disease being spread by decay. Therefore the practice of cremation has become more and more accepted in Western cultures as cities have grown larger and cemetaries have become more crowded.

Cremation in the modern era involves the use of high levels of heat that reduce the body of the deceased to ashes. The ashes can then be spread without causing any health problem to others.

However, increasingly many people today are returning to the ancient practice of storing the ashes in a funerary urn instead. In such a container the ashes can be kept and memorialized by their loved ones, or it can also serve as a fitting receptacle for burial as well.

Cremation urns are available in many different configurations and price levels, and they need not simply be a utilitarian object. In fact, some urns can be very decorative and attractive in appearance.

So if you wish to memorialize a loved one in a dignified way, be sure to consider a crematory urn as another way to honor and remember them.

Jim Johnson writes on many consumer related topics. You can find out more about urns for cremation by visiting our All About Urns website.

Kids Parties Helpful Hints To Help You Enjoy Your Kids Parties

2009-01-08T02:00:00.002-08:00

Writen by Gail Leino

Many times kids' parties can be a party for the children and a headache for you. Simplify things by creating a party theme to provide instant interest, preplan entertainment, and set some strict rules to make things easier on yourself.

Set a time for the party to begin and end. Choosing to have your kids' parties after school on a Friday, insures the children will be tired enough to sleep at the end of the night instead of staying awake all night long. Having the children picked up by 10:00 the next morning, will give you plenty of time to clean up, and still have time to catch up on any rest you missed in afternoon.

Tents pitched in the back yard, are an adventure for your kids' parties, and save your house a bit of wear and tear as well. Just be sure to have plenty of snacks and drinks handy, and lots of trash cans in your yard. Buy plenty of flashlights at an everything is a dollar store (the flashlights are good for playing flashlight tag as well as finding the way to the bathroom in the middle of the night) and let your little partiers take them home with them after the party.

Another helpful hint is to have extra movies and popcorn handy just in case of rain, or too many spooky stories sending the kids and their sleeping bags inside, so you will not be unprepared to entertain the children, if the festivities at your kids' parties move inside.

Both for yourself, and the parents of the children attending your kids' parties, set a time for lights out, and stick to it. Nobody enjoys picking up a cranky child who has been awake all night long, and, though it might not be popular with the kids, it will be appreciated by the parents.

Have plenty of handy breakfast foods set out the night before, so early risers will be able to serve themselves. Good choices are small boxes of cereal, fruits, muffins, bagels, and a variety of milk and juices. Planning ahead and using these helpful hints will guarantee your kids' parties will be enjoyed by everyone!