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The New Bankruptcy Law

23 Feb

With the new bankruptcy law in effect as of October 17, 2005, there is a lot of confusion with regard to the new “means test” requirement. The means test will be used by the courts to determine eligibility for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The purpose of this article is to explain in plain language how the means test works, so that consumers can get a better idea of how they will be affected under the new rules.

When most people think of bankruptcy, they think in terms of Chapter 7, where the unsecured debts are normally discharged in full. Bankruptcy of any variety is a difficult ordeal at best, but at least with Chapter 7, a debtor can wipe out the debts in full and get a fresh start. Chapter 13, however, is another story, since the debtor must pay back a significant portion of the debt over a 3-5 year period, with 5 years being the standard under the new law.

Prior to the advent of the “Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005,” the most common reason for someone to file under Chapter 13 was to avoid the loss of equity in their home or other property. And while equity protection will continue to be a big reason for people to choose Chapter 13 over Chapter 7, the new rules will force many people to file under Chapter 13 even if they have NO equity. That’s because the means test will take into account the debtor’s income level.

To apply the means test, the courts will look at the debtor’s average income for the 6 months prior to filing and compare it to the median income for that state. For example, the median annual income for a single wage-earner in California is $42,012. If the income is below the median, then Chapter 7 remains open as an option. If the income exceeds the median, the remaining parts of the means test will be applied.

This is where it gets a little bit trickier. The next step in the calculation takes income less living expenses (excluding payments on the debts included in the bankruptcy), and multiplies that figure times 60. This represents the amount of income available over a 5-year period for repayment of the debt obligations.

If the income available for debt repayment over that 5-year period is $10,000 or more, then Chapter 13 will be required. In other words, anyone earning above the state median, and with at least $166.67 per month of available income, will automatically be denied Chapter 7. So for example, if the court determines that you have $200 per month income above living expenses, $200 times 60 is $12,000. Since $12,000 is above $10,000, you’re stuck with Chapter 13.

What happens if you are above the median income but do NOT have at least $166.67 per month to pay toward your debts? Then the final part of the means test is applied. If the available income is less than $100 per month, then Chapter 7 again becomes an option. If the available income is between $100 and $166.66, then it is measured against the debt as a percentage, with 25% being the benchmark.

In other words, let’s say your income is above the median, your debt is $50,000, and you only have $125 of available monthly income. We take $125 times 60 months (5 years), which equals $7,500 total. Since $7,500 is less than 25% of your $50,000 debt, Chapter 7 is still a possible option for you. If your debt was only $25,000, then your $7,500 of available income would exceed 25% of your debt and you would be required to file under Chapter 13.

To sum up, first figure out whether you are above or below the median income for your state (median income figures are available at http://www.new-bankruptcy-law-info.com). Be sure to account for your spouse’s income if you are a two-income family. Next, deduct your average monthly living expenses from your monthly income and multiply by 60. If the result is above $10,000, you’re stuck with Chapter 13. If the result is below $6,000, you may still be able to file Chapter 7. If the result is between $6,000 and $10,000, compare it to 25% of your debt. Above 25%, you’re looking at Chapter 13 for sure.

Now, in these examples, I have ignored a very important aspect of the new bankruptcy law. As stated above, the amount of monthly income available toward debt repayment is determined by subtracting living expenses from income. However, the figures used by the court for living expenses are NOT your actual documented living expenses, but rather the schedules used by the IRS in the collection of taxes. A big problem here for most consumers is that their household budgets will not reflect the harsh reality of the IRS approved numbers. So even if you think you are “safe,” and will be able to file Chapter 7 because you don’t have $100 per month to spare, the court may rule otherwise and still force you into Chapter 13. Some of your actual expenses may be disallowed. What remains to be seen is how the courts will handle cases where the cost of mortgages or home rentals are inflated well above the government schedules. Will debtors be expected to move into cheaper housing to meet the court’s required schedule for living expenses? No one has any answers to these questions yet. It will be up to the courts to interpret the new law in practice as cases proceed through the system.

 
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The Baseball Catcher

23 Feb

In a play of baseball, the glove of baseball can be found tapi behind the dish at the house and catches the ball of the jug. It has most difficult to charge in the play.with regard to the importance. Of its position it has the sight of the whole field. In this case, it has the responsibility to carry out the other players in the play. It has to give the responsability it to realize of the forces of the pitcher and of the weakness of the batter . It makes gestures the good movements in the jug by signals of hand to eliminate the smooth paste from some way.

 
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Debt Consolidation Benefits

23 Feb

Debt consolidation is the technique of solving your debt related problems. In the present day scenario, debt has become a hazard consuming millions of people who are unable to pay their loans in time. The most common problem with mismanagement of debts is that one gets to know about the severity of it after a considerably long time. By the time one wakes up to the reality, it is too late. Debt consolidation helps you in saving you from the legal actions which can be taken against you in case of non-settlement of bills. Debt consolidation can eliminate your worries and lets you enjoy life in the way you want to. You must take time out of your schedule to clear your debts altogether and it will be one of the smartest things you did in a long time.

 
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Skiing In Scotland

22 Feb

Scotland may be the home of golf, but it’s also a great place for skiing enthusiasts. With numerous world class resorts, and such a depth of history and culture, Scotland is a great place to visit on your vacation, regardless of your interests and hobbies. When you think of Scotland, you might think of kilts, and rural mountaintops and sheep, but if you actually get to know the place, you’ll find it is both beautiful, with its bustling, classy cities, ensuring you’re going to have an enjoyable vacation wherever you go in the country.

 
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The Importance of Celebration

22 Feb

Have you ever achieved an important goal or dream, yet quickly moved on to the next task? Or maybe you boldly took a risk, yet your performance didn’t meet your expectations or others? Or maybe the perfectionist in you felt the accomplishment wasn’t big enough or worthy of celebration? Do you generously celebrate your wins?

I thought I was someone who was good about celebrating successes. And, maybe you have too. But recently, a few significant events opened my eyes to the importance of celebrating and the costs associated when accomplishments are minimized, criticized or glossed over. I invite you to explore the “celebration factor” in your life, as I share my own recent experiences with you. It’s forever changed my relationship with celebration, and how I intend to consciously choose to honor the big and little achievements along life’s path.

It’s no secret that I’ve been busily working on preparing my book for publication. While there are numerous tasks and milestones along the way, going to print is one of the biggies. December marked the first print run of 125 galley copies for book reviewers. While I consciously knew this was a great achievement, the event was sort of lost in the flurry of other activities. Instead of feeling elated and joyous, I have to admit my experience was more like a mini postpartum depression. I had a bodywork session, and didn’t think much of it.

Not too long ago, I uploaded the files for the first BIG print run. There wasn’t a parade or party. The files were simply uploaded. Mission accomplished. Yet, my task list seemed as overwhelming as ever. Once again, I felt my normal happy self uncontrollably nose-diving into droopiness. This postpartum-like depression seemed worse than before. It was awful! Conversations with other authors confirmed this was something they had experienced too. But, why? Would some conscious celebrating have helped?

A third event brought me even more clarity. Last weekend, I attended a workshop. Since this next phase for me is about putting myself into the public eye, I decided to participate in the amateur talent show. This was definitely outside my comfort zone, as I don’t consider myself a performer AT ALL. But, I’ve admired women who dance freely in front of a group, and thought it could be fun. More importantly, I decided it would be a metaphor for authentically expressing myself in front of a group. I figured if I couldn’t put myself out there in front of a supportive, loving group, then I’d be in big trouble on my book tour.

So, I went for it. I gathered tips from the dance instructors who happened to be attending the event. There was virtually no time to practice. My legs were shaking terribly in anticipation of this event. I was nervous. I hate making a fool of myself. But, before I knew it – I DID my performance. They all clapped and loved it.

Did I celebrate? Heck no. I stood in the back of the room replaying the performance in my mind, my body still shaking a bit. The critic was active with judgments. I had moved too quickly. I had forgotten some of the tips, like breathing. Could everyone tell how nervous I was? As others congratulated me, I deflected their comments, minimizing their kind words. How many times have YOU deflected or minimized acknowledgment from others?

I explained to others that it wasn’t perfect. The truth is, there were parts of the performance that were fabulous, and I felt amazing and powerful at certain moments. Other parts of the performance were a tad awkward, and a tinge of nervousness shined through. Overall, it was pretty darn good, especially considering it was a first time experience. While everyone was focused on the overall performance, I was fixated on the imperfections. Performance aside, simply the courage to do it was worthy of celebration. How many times do you refrain from celebration when your desired outcome falls short of expectations?

I eventually got tired of pushing the accolades away, and knew it would be useful to break this nasty habit. This whole experience served as a metaphor in TWO big ways. First off, it’s not about doing it perfectly. It’s about doing my best, being my authentic myself, and enjoying the process. This is something I’d like to keep in mind, as I set out on my journey as a published author. No doubt I will have a few awkward steps in the eyes of the public. Perhaps you’ll join me in trading the aspiration of perfection for full self-expression and a joyful journey — in your own life?

Secondly, I realized that once again, I wasn’t letting the celebration in. FEELING the celebration is key. Positively anchoring an accomplishment conditions us to continually risk, express ourselves and achieve more. I have been working on this since then. And, taking in the celebration feels AMAZING. What is something that you need to celebrate in your life? I challenge you to go for it.

As things turned out, the book spine needed some width adjustments, last minute endorsements came in and we caught a few needed corrections. On Wednesday night, the final-final .pdf files for The Power of Inner Choice were uploaded to the printer. At last.

I am a good student, and so is my boyfriend. And, the lessons were fresh. This was the landmark moment that wasn’t going to be brushed aside this time. I hypothesized that minimal celebration had contributed to the droopiness. We wanted to avoid the previous slump at all costs. So, Wednesday night became the time to celebrate.

How would you have celebrated?

Our last minute celebration consisted of fresh halibut, Gorgonzola Gnocchi from Trader Joe’s (it’s very yummy!), an exceptional bottle of wine – and one of our favorite dessert treats. But, it wasn’t the food, it was the ATTITUDE of celebration. Making the evening special just because we decided to. Most importantly, I took the celebration inside of me and FELT it. And, I’m happy to say — there was NO slump yesterday. Now it’s time to celebrate the book release!

Celebration is about honoring yourself. It refuels the fire. It soothes the soul. And, it FEELS GOOD! Without it, our efforts can take the wind out of our sails. Life is full of big and little opportunities to celebrate. Some would say that CELEBRATING and experiencing joy IS what life is all about. I’m beginning to believe that is simply the truth.

Are you CELEBRATING your life?

I

t’s not too late to start celebrating every step of YOUR journey. Celebrate with me. Celebrate with your loved ones. Celebrate with yourself. Just start celebrating.

Mary Allen, CPCC, MCC is author of The Power of Inner Choice. She hosts Conversations with the Masters interviewing best-selling authors via free, live conference calls. Visit http://www.lifecoachmary.com to learn about coaching, her popular year-long Success and Inner Peace Bootcamp and tap into a wealth of resources including her ezine SoulFULLY Living, and Your Daily Gems.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Allen

 
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Unique Gift Certificates! Giving Gifts Online Is Easy, Convenient, And Fun

22 Feb

When it comes to shopping for unique gift ideas online, there is a new phenomenon growing every year and if you guessed unique gift certificates as an option, you were correct!

Why are so many online stores experiencing a dramatic growth in gift certificate sales via the Internet? The answer is simple! We live in a global village that is allowing us to access some of the hottest worldwide stores online, and we dont have to ever leave the comforts of our home.

In a matter of minutes you can be shopping in Paris for the hottest fashions, and with a few clicks of the mouse youre shopping in LA for custom made surfboards, or in Boston for the freshest seafood on this planet.

Gift Certificates Online Offer Great Features And Valuable Benefits!

Gift certificates online have many features and benefits, and whether youre the one purchasing them for your family and friends, or the recipient on the receiving end, you just cant go wrong when you give your recipients the opportunity to choose their very own gift.

When you shop with online stores, you will notice they can offer you more unique gift ideas, and can be a little more flexible in offering the hard-to-find products. With the easy delivery of a gift certificate directly to your recipients home, whether by regular post or email, they can access and redeem their unique certificates online, or in-store for products they will really enjoy.

People Live Busy Lives, And They Just Dont Have The Extra Time To Shop

When youre extremely busy and just dont have the time to shop the malls, going on your computer and searching for gift ideas is extremely convenient. Add the benefits of many top retail stores and unique small stores that provide you quick access to limitless inventory of their products from electronics to gourmet gift baskets, and you can easily avoid the mall crowds and limited selection.

During Easter, Christmas and for many housewarming parties & weddings, you may not know exactly what to buy your family members or friends, and jumping from store to store is not an option for you! Its getting harder these days to find that special gift that no one else has thought of getting, and when you come to that crossroad in your shopping plan, a special occasion certificate can really get you out of a messy gift giving situation.

When you provide your recipients with a gift of choice with either an in-store gift card or e-certificate, they can buy whatever their heart desires, and when you add them to a nice gift basket, or flower arrangement, it makes your gift that more personal and much appreciated.

 
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Consider Rubber Decking The Possibilities Are Endless

22 Feb

Rubber decking is the ultimate material to consider when you need to install decking in commercial areas. Wherever you have a lot of people walking or working, rubber decking provides the best safety net because of its non-slip features. Rubber decking is made from the same material as the tires on your vehicle, so you know that it is well worth the extra money you have to pay for it. It is maintenance free and you wont need to use any type of deck sealer to keep it waterproof as you would with wood decking.

Rubber decking is not made using bonding agents and therefore does not have any air gaps. Neither is it susceptible to contraction or expansion and for this reason, if you choose this type of maintenance free decking, you can expect to see less than inch of movement in a 20 foot length of decking. There is no need for painting, staining or the use of wood deck sealers. The surface of the rubber can be buffed so that you have the ultimate non-slip surface. However, since this decking material is so watertight, you will probably have to clear the water off of it after it rains, if you have the decking exposed.

When you install rubber decking, you have decking material that is well able to withstand various temperatures. It is suitable for a temperature of zero to those that exceed 100. However, for colder climates where the winter temperature dips below zero, this maintenance free decking may not be suitable to use for outdoors. Although the use of rubber will increase the life of your deck by about 5 years, you do have to take the climate into consideration before you buy this material.

The price of rubber decking is not cheap. One board measuring 1 inch thick and 8 inches wide in black costs about $2 per foot, whereas the same size board in grey or terra cotta costs over $3 per foot. This maintenance free decking comes with a 25 year warranty, but there are conditions attached. Even though you want decking that will not require maintenance or the use of wood deck sealers, you do need to make sure that the decking is properly installed. The support system should have centers no more than 18 inches apart and each rubber board has to be fastened to each center. If you use equipment heavier than 1000 pounds on the decking, this will also void the warranty.

Rubber decking is also called Rumber. You can cut it with a saw when you are installing the decking material. However, you must use a carbide tip blade with large teeth. In addition to buying rubber boards for installing maintenance free decking, you can also buy rubber decking material in sheets. You do still have to fasten the rubber to the center supports so that the middle of the deck is not loose.

 
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Player Profile: Paul Darden

22 Feb

After an inauspicious adolescence, Paul The Truth Darden, Jr. has come a long way. Born October 27, 1968 in New Haven, Connecticut and raised in a ghetto, in his teen years he hung out with thieves and drug dealers. In fact, at the tender age of 15, Darden was accused of murder but was lucky enough to be acquitted due to mistaken identity.

As a high school dropout, there were not many career options open to him and he says that the game of Poker helped him turn his life around. Darden states that one of his goals is to bring poker to the African American community and commented in one of his interviews There is going to be salt and pepper all over the casinos when they see me win a big event.

Paul Darden began playing and winning at the local Foxwoods Casino as well as in the Stud Games at Atlantic City where they were very popular. He tells us that his father had a small poker club many years ago and taught Paul to play.

A positive event in his life was meeting up with Phil Ivey who became his friend and mentor. Although Pauls favorite games were Five Card and Seven Card Stud, Phil encouraged him to branch out into other games, especially Texas Holdem No Limit due to his aggressive style of playing.

Paul has learned to be patient when playing and has become a master at reading tells the movement and body language of other players. Different players react in different ways when playing a winning or losing hand and learning to recognize these actions is very helpful to his game.

Paul also has one World Series of Poker bracelet. As of this writing, his total live tournament winnings are in excess of $1,700,000.

Paul is married to Vicky and they have one child. He also has three children from different relationships. One of his important goals is to provide for his family so that his children will have a better life than he did while growing up.

He appears to be on a winning streak in Poker as well as in his life and we wish him well.

 
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Safety Reminders When Buying Medications Online

22 Feb

With modern technology easily accessible to everybody, almost anything can be done through the Internet. From shopping, paying bills, to making reservations most transactions can be done without ever leaving the privacy of the home. Even the field of medicine has caught on the fad consultations can be made online, even purchasing medications can be made on the web. With the help of a computer, a stable internet connection, and a credit card, making and paying for prescription purchases have never been so easy.

 
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Career Counseling for Change – Five Important Keys to a Successful Direction and Transition

22 Feb

Are you unsatisfied with your career and want to make a change? Do you feel like you are not achieving your full career potential? Do you want to make a change, but want to make sure it is the right career this time? Don’t know what you want to do, but know its not what you do now?

People are most fulfilled and successful when they find work they love to do and that suits their talents and abilities. This article shares five important keys to making a successful career change. Some concepts may be new to you, some may not. I encourage you to read through them either way, and let them stimulate your thinking. The exercises included are optional, but you are invited to reap

the full benefits by participating in them.

Key #1: Establish a career direction based on excellent self-understanding.

The first stages of a career change involve thinking, self-assessment, exploring, and planning. You can embark on these steps now–without disrupting your current employment situation. After you know more about your new direction, you can decide when to make your move. A career-direction goal should always aim for the ideal career and job fit for yourself. The first steps to identifying the ideal career involve self-assessment and generating insights into what career will make you most satisfied while meeting your needs. Research shows that people who are most satisfied and motivated in their careers are people who have a career that reflects their values, interests, skills, and talents plus their ideal work environment.

How can you clarify these kinds of self-understanding insights? You can do this first of all through a process of reflection on your favorite passions, skills, and interests as well as preferences. Career tests or assessments can also provide help here, and lend some objectivity to the exploration. There are a number of reliable and valid career-oriented tests that are widely available through career counselors and coaches.

Career counseling is geared exactly for this purpose. You may enjoy and benefit from the guidance of a counselor or coach to facilitate the development of a career direction based on who you are. This kind of self-understanding then translates into identifying specific careers that match up with who you are, and are likely to bring you the most satisfaction and motivation.

Here are some tips:

* Think ideally. What do you really want?

* Listen to your longings and desires.

* Pay attention to what attracts you.

* Stay away from things that repel you.

* Understand fully your unique style.

As you go about a career change, it is important to realize you cannot do everything well. You must choose a career direction and a job based on your best abilities and strengths. There are businesses that very much need the capabilities that you are able to provide.

Key #2 to a successful career change is to take stock of your skills, natural talents, competencies, and strengths, and to be able to articulate these well to potential employers as well as others.

Go with your strengths, and be able to communicate them impressively.If you think you have already identified your skills, talents, and strengths, and are looking for work that emphasizes these, great.

Take this opportunity to ask yourself, “Am I successfully saying no to careers and jobs that do not focus on my favorite skills, talents, and strengths?”

Focus your career direction into a career and job for which you are especially equipped. Each person has natural talent and intelligence in one or more areas. The idea is to be very clear on what you are naturally gifted at and let your talents guide you to your next career.

To further discover or clarify where your strengths and talents fall, think back on your life and previous work experience. What tasks and projects came easiest to you? What were the most important accomplishments in your life? What have you received the most recognition for?

You may want to ask several friends what they see as your greatest professional strengths. Career assessment can also yield good information. Take stock. Write down a list now. What themes emerge as you reflect on this?

This is a valuable exercise for self-understanding and career direction, but also when it comes to getting a job. The better you can articulate who you are and the talents and skills you bring to a business, the better impression you make on a potential employer.

There are a number of variables to consider in choosing a career or a job, including the market realities. This brings us to another concept that is necessary to be successful in your transition.

Key #3 is to identify a career that involves what you love to do, can be the best at, and for which you can be well compensated.

Imagine a Ven diagram consisting of three overlapping circles. One circle represents those activities, tasks, functions, and roles that you love to do. All of us at one time or another have experienced doing work that really did not seem like work because we enjoyed doing it. That’s what I mean by work that you love to do.

The second circle represents work that you have the potential to be best at–work that you can do better than most others. This means tasks and projects that you have the right skills and natural talent for, and excel at. Work that you will be highly competitive at and perhaps (potentially) better than anyone else.

The third circle represents work that you will be paid well for. If there is work that you love to do and are great at, it will not matter unless someone will compensate you what you need. It is important to understand and take into account the realities of the job market.

Now, in this Ven diagram, the three circles overlap with each other equally. In the center is an area where the three circles converge and all three circles are overlapping. This is the area that represents the right career(s) for you. You want to consider careers or jobs that align with these three areas–work that you love to do, can do best, and will be well- compensated for.

By the way, if this sounds similar to Jim Collin’s Hedgehog Concept in his book “Good to Great”, it is. It is an adaptation of his model for business success applied to career success. I highly recommend his book.

So now, I suggest you take a few minutes and apply this to yourself. Where is the convergence of these three circles for you? If you cannot discover this, how will you find out? When all is said and done, one of the biggest factors in a career transition is money. Although you may love the idea of quitting your job and jumping into your next career, financial realities are in play.

Key #4: To transition smoothly into your next career, plan the best

way to juggle the finances to support you along the way.

I know from my work as a career counselor and coach that the money issue can cause significant angst and difficulty. Here are some ideas for managing it well.

1. Use your current income wisely. If you have a job, keep it. There’s a saying that its easier to get a job when you have one. Before initiating a move: increase your savings, reduce your expenses, live within, or better, below your means for a while.

2. Build cash reserves through supplementing your full-time job with other work. You can get a part-time job, do contract work, etc.

3. Add a part-time business to your full-time job. If you must let go of your full-time job, then do what you can to produce an income while you are in transition.

4. Get an interim full-time or part-time job.

5. Do contract or freelance work.

6. Have a well-paying part-time job while you work on starting a business, if that will be your next career.

7. Use consulting gigs to generate income. Put your key strengths and capabilities to good use to generate income as a consultant while in transition.

8. Work full-time or part-time while attending school to prepare for your next career, if that is your plan.

A number of these options also have fringe benefits. While providing income, you can hopefully put yourself in positions where you can develop skills, experience, or contacts for your next career. How will you make the finances work during your career transition? Take a few minutes and jot down your thoughts.

Key #5: Network, network, network.

People who are most successful at career change and job-hunting use methods that require more effort. People who are less successful do the usual: passive methods such as sending out resumes, going through agencies, looking at the ads, and using the Internet. There is nothing wrong with these methods; in a strong job market they may be sufficient.

More active approaches include researching organizations in detail, doing informational interviewing, and building a network of contacts. These methods involve more work, but they are also the most effective.

Despite the fact that we are in the age of the Internet (it is estimated that about 5 to 10% of jobs are filled by on-line job boards–not bad, but what about the other 90%?), networking is still the best strategy.

So, to be successful in making a career change, it really pays to build a strong list of contacts and reconnect with them. If you don’t know how to network effectively or your skills could be better, it is a good time to work on this. Consider utilizing the help of a career counselor or coach.

Never underestimate who your friends and associates know. Keep track of your contacts as your list grows, and revitalize old relationships.

Your contacts may be the key to getting job leads, crucial inside information, getting the attention of whoever is hiring for the position you want, and many other valuable benefits. Many, many people have a job they love because they knew someone who knew someone.

Now comes the end of this article on keys to a successful career change.

Review:

Key #1: Establish a career direction based on excellent self-understanding.

Key #2: Take stock of your skills, natural talents, competencies, and strengths, and be able to articulate these well.

Key #3: Identify a career that involves what you love to do, can be the best at, and for which you can be well compensated.

Key #4 Plan the best way to juggle the finances to support you along the way.

Key #5: Network, network, network.

I hope you have enjoyed this article and are now taking steps to make a great career change. What was the biggest thing you will take away from this? What questions remain unanswered? Where will you go from here? Write out your thoughts.

William Morgan, Psy.D. is a career counselor and coach in the greater Philadelphia area serving clients nationwide. For more information on his career transition and development services and helpful resources visit his website at http://www.Counseling4Careers.com

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Bill_Morgan

 
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Five Budget Tips to Help You Save

22 Feb

Saving money is much easier than earning it from scratch. But it is also much harder than it is to spend money, and as a result, most of us spend what we would rather save. In order to begin saving money, we need to have a plan, and the more automatic the plan works, the better. When we are confronted with the choice between spending money and saving it, we run the risk that we will give in to the temptation to choose instant gratification. So taking the choice out of the equation is one of the first steps to a steady savings program.

Here are five tips for budgeting and saving money, the automatic way:

1)Set up an automatic withdrawal program with your bank, so that every time you make a deposit, a percentage of the money you deposit is automatically transferred to a savings account that is harder for you to access. One way to do this is to have your bank use an automatic deposit system to put a set amount of money for example, $100 into your savings account each month.

2)Save your loose change and small bills. Put a piggybank in your kitchen and every time you come home, empty the change from your pockets and put it in the piggybank. Toss in a few one-dollar donations from time to time. Although it sounds juvenile, you will be surprised how much you can save with this old fashioned method. And it is so much fun to break the bank when it wont hold another cent.

3)Write down everything and that means no exceptions you buy. Keep a log of every single purchase you make. Write down what you bought and how much it cost. If you left a tip, write that down too. Be diligent about keeping your log book, and if you do it well, you can just do it for a month and gather enough information to help you save even without the log book. Most people find hidden expenses, like $10 per day for coffee or $50 per month for a gym membership that is never used, and then they can easily adjust their budget to save money immediately.

4)Spend less at holidays. And entertain at home. Instead of giving expensive gifts at Christmas, give handcrafted items, poems, or pledges to do errands or barter with friends. One fellow we know agreed to shovel his friends sidewalks during one snow season. His friends got a great gift, and he saved some cash to spend once the snow and ice thawed. Instead of going out to eat in restaurants, cook at home or invite friends for a potluck dinner. Rent DVDs instead of going to the movies.

5)Dont shop hungry. Scientific studies show that people who have a strong appetite will not only eat more, but they will consume more of everything else, too. Many of us know that if we go grocery shopping while hungry, we will buy more than we need. So dont do it. Eat first, then shop. But since studies show that it applies to all sorts of shopping, always have a satisfying snack before going to the mall, the clothing boutique, or the sports store. Youll spend less, and save more.

 
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Athletes Foot

22 Feb

Almost half the world-wide market for athletic shoes is right here in the US. Thanks to an aggressive marketing plan and succession of shrewd endorsements, it has been dominated by the Nike swoosh. In a business saturated with players, Nikes 36% market share represents a substantial margin over the competition.

How much is 36% of the market? Only sales in the neighborhood of $7.2 billion, thats all. Enough cash to buy every franchise in the NBA. Isnt it just a little ironic a company that propelled its period of rapid growth on a product launch and endorsement campaign grounded on the NBAs brightest star, could on a whim, buy the whole league?

Not everything is rosy for Nike in the athletes foot market. Of the 50 or so other manufacturers, number two Adidas has completed a move to present a major challenge.

Athletic footwear is divided into two sectors. Competitive which drives innovation to set the mainframe, and fashion which spins casual wear market entries off from the mainframe. Around the rest of the world, Adidas has long been the leader in competitive footwear. It was Adidas that really started it all, sneaking their 3 stripe trademark past stringent Olympic and World Cup sponsorship regulations of the 1950s to give birth to a whole new industry

Adidas has acquired number 3 Reebok for $3.8 billion, giving them a 21 percent US market share. Most significant about this deal is Reebok holds a much firmer grip on the fashion market than Adidas ever has. Each brand will keep its identity, but expect to see some new forms cross brand marketing invented to capitalize on the strenghts of each. The Reebok brand blended into the Adidas mix means a savvy competitor for Nike to deal with across the full market range. Expect Nike to dig deep and find creative ways to fight them off.

The big business of whose sport shoe they put on their feet assures consumers a new round of innovative choices will be soon on the way.

 
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How to Increase Children’s Reading Habit in A Developing Country

22 Feb

An Education Staff of Athalia School, Tangerang, Indonesia.

If someone has the ability to read does not mean he directly has the interest to read. Reading skill and reading interest are 2 kinds of different matters. Many schools in the developing countries struggle to educate their society to be able to master the reading skills. For example in Indonesia, some parts of the society still have no ability to read because of their poorness in getting education opportunity or because they live in a very remote area.

Many people in developing countries still struggle with the basic needs such as food, clothes and housing so that they do not have idea or budget for books, even for education.

Because of that situation, the culture of reading habit is far from their reach. Even though some of them already have a better living, their thought is still focused on something that is more real, functional, comforting, money- value or something that can improve their prestige like jewelries, hand phones, luxuries housing & cars, expensive toys, etc. Because the culture of reading is not formed yet, the society spend most of their free time for watching TV or chatting.

For some family who has realized the important of books and education, it is still hard for them to increase the reading interest and habit of their children.because they have to spend more money for buying books that are getting more expensive. Libraries are rare. Even many schools have no libraries. But there are still some ideas to increase children’s reading habit in the midst of not ideal condition.

First, if you realize that reading habit is important for you and your children, start the reading habit in your own family without blaming the situation around you. Your habit will sooner or later influence your surroundings. Read your children everyday or regularly to form their reading habit and their love of books. It does not matter if you only have ten minutes everyday. It still also gives you good impact. Let your children know that you enjoy the time you share with them for reading. They will love both the time for reading and the time to attach with you.

Second, include expense for books in your budget. It does not matter if you only spend a little of money according to what you can afford. The important thing is you plan and budget it routinely every month. You and your children should often visit bookshop or book fair.

Third, visit any libraries that are available in your neighborhood, schools, universities, clubs, etc. Ask the children to visit the libraries will increase their love for books.

Fourth, you can decrease the expense of books if you can exchange your books with your friends, relatives or neighbors. Sharing books will increase our knowledge in a cheaper way. You can hold a book club where you and the other members (adults and children) can bring their collection of books and share them.

Fifth, you can make your own books. Reading books does not always mean buying books. We can borrow them, share them or make them by ourselves. Children will be enthusiastic if you make a personal book especially made for them. You can use their photographs, handmade pictures, etc to make the book. You can stick the photographs or pictures on some sheets of blank paper, then you write some comments about them. You can arrange the photographs from the child’s birth till he is growing. You also can cut and stick the brochure from the hospital where the baby was born to complete the book. You or your children can draw something on that books, too. You can put the photographs of grandpa, grandma or other relatives to introduce your big family to your children. You can also stick some pictures that reveal your culture or the customs of your society so that the children will learn about their ancestors’ culture and tradition.

The handmade books can be varied in themes. Maybe you want to tell your children about your job and what you are doing while you are away from them. You can take some pictures of your office, your friends, your projects, places you visited, etc and make a book from that pictures. The children will be happy and trust you because they know what you are doing when they miss you. It is important especially for career women who often leave their children.

It’s cheap but excited if you ask your children to make their own books. They can draw or cut pictures from magazines and write their own stories according to their imagination. If your children is still to young to write, you can ask them to tell you the stories of the pictures and you write it for them. After that, read the books for them. They will be very proud of them.

For you yourself, you can collect a lot information from newspaper, magazines, internet, brochures and any other printing materials to make a clipping of information. For example, if you like cooking, you can collect many recipes from many resources and also add your own recipes that you write or type. Bundle those information to make your personal cooking book. If you need information about technology, you can also do the same although you must work harder to collect more information. The important thing is financial problem and lacking of books do not stop your enthusiastic for reading. There are many ways to get and collect information.

Sixth, there is another way that will make children interested in book. Usually children like watching cartoon like “Nemo, Lion King, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh” or may be there are some traditional legends, puppets or stories that the children love very much. It is very interesting if they watch the movie or show and then read the books. The books can be bought or made by yourself.

Seventh, It is creative if you can dramatize the story you read to your children. For example, if the story is about a king and a queen, you can pretend to be the king and your child is the queen. You can pile up some pillows as your throne and wear a hat as your crown. You and your children can also roar like lions if there are some lions in the story. Children will be very enthusiastic to do that. You can do what the story is about, too. For example, the story is about going to the zoo, you can go to the zoo, too. Or if the story is about fruit, you can go to the market or supermarket to observe them. Bring the information in the story into reality or action.

Eighth, give books as gifts for your children instead of toys. I do not mean that toys are not good for children. I think educational toys are very important for children but you should introduce books as gifts so that the children will respect books as valuable gifts. You can give books for your children as their birthday presents, Christmas presents or when they have good achievement in schools.

Ninth, your reading habit should be the example for your children because deeds speak louder than words. If your children often see you reading, they will know that reading is a good habit that mom and dad often do. How if you yourself do not like reading but you realized that reading is very important for your children ?. It is a fact that many adults do not like reading but there are some tips that you can do to overcome this problem. Find the books that are suitable with your hobbies. If you like cooking, read many recipes or books about cooking. You can also chase your favorite novels. Talk to yourselves that books are important because they can broaden your point of view, your knowledge, skills and even improve your career as well as give you relaxation. Switch off your television, because we usually spend more time for watching television that what we plan. Put the books on the places that are easy to see and access like in your bedroom, in the living room, in the kitchen, in the car, etc. Ask your friends what books they are reading now or books that are good in their opinion. You will be more motivated if you hear that your friends promoted them to you. Make a list what books you have read and what books you plan to read. You will be satisfied if the list is becoming longer. Visit the bookstores, book fairs and libraries. The best thing to do is do it now ! Do not wait until you have enough time or until you think you want to do it later.

Tenth, make sure that books and reading habit are one of your priority because you know the benefit of them. From books you can introduce a lot of knowledge to your children. There is no limit of knowledge if we can learn it by ourselves through reading both from books or from the internet. Do not wait until your children able to read to give them books. Start as soon as they were born. If you often communicate with your babies and read stories for them, their language ability will increase. Although they have not been able to response you through words, they absorb the words you speak to them (Beck, 1997). Do not only give fiction books for young children although they usually like fiction with cute pictures like Winne The Pooh or Mickey mouse. They will also be enthusiastic if you give them non fiction books like books of knowledge such as books about human body, solar system, sea animals, etc. Introduce them to the knowledge since they are very young so that they will like the knowledge and their curiosity will increase, too.

Besides, through books we can teach our children about some concept, value or belief. When it is difficult to tell them not to cheat, you can find a children book with interesting pictures that contains of moral teaching concerning cheating. I have an experience with my little boy when he was afraid of visiting a dentist. Before we visited the dentist, I read him a book about going to the dentist. It is a funny story because the dentist is a tiger and the patient is a little tiger. The little tiger is very brave to see the dentist. This book made my son brave enough to see the dentist because he wanted to be a brave little boy like the little tiger was.

But remember that only good books should you and your children read because some books can be very destructive if they are not suitable with your value or belief. For example, there are many books that contains of pornography and violence that can influence you and your children’s mind. You must be very selective in reading or giving books for your children because our mind is not like a computer. You can delete some data in your computer but you can not erase the information or imagination in your children’s mind. If you think that your children have already been fond of wrong books, do not forbid them directly to stop their habit of reading them. Instead, influence them with your opinion that they should be able to choose which books are good and which books are not so that they will not resist. Let them know from the beginning that they can choose their books but give them some limitation which books are acceptable, which books are not and your reason of that limitation.

There is another benefit of books. You can use it to teach your children foreign languages. Children’s brain is easier to absorb language than adult (Beck, 1997). If you take your little children live abroad, they will master the language when they interact with the children from other countries. If a child is raised by a couple of different nationalities, the child will be able to speak two languages of his parents. I know a child whose father is a Japanese and mother is an Indonesian. This child master both Japanese and Indonesian. Because of children’s ability to absorb new languages fast, you can use foreign language story books to introduce and teach them the languages. Maybe you yourselves only know a little about this language but if you can just read it for them, the vocabularies and structures of the language will be remembered by them.

I am an Indonesian. I read my son English story books when he was 3 years old. I just read the books again and again and then he can repeat the story by himself as if he can read it. He can also repeat the structures in a daily conversation. For example, the book says ” Cat can eat. Cat can drink”. While he was eating, he could say “I can eat, I can drink”. There is another book that says ” Teddy flies higher and higher”. While he was playing, he climbed on a chair and then he jumped to the floor saying ” I can fly higher and higher.” I think the influence of the books is very prominent. The important thing is you have to find a simple story book which has a big picture and a few words or sentences and repeat the story many times as long as your children is not boring. You can choose what foreign language you want to introduce to your children. Just find the simple story books and repeat them in a regular basis. Sooner or later he will remember the vocabularies and recognize the structures.

There are many benefits of books, but you do not always have to buy them. As it is explained above, you can borrow them, share them or make them by yourself. Use your imagination to produce your simple drawings. Or use the pictures from newspapers or magazines to make your own books. Arrange the pictures and the words according to your idea and you will have your personal collection cheaply but creatively made just for your children and yourselves. The value can’t be compared. So do not wait until you have enough money to buy books or wait until you have enough time to read or wait until your children are big enough to read books by themselves. Start it now ! No matter the condition of your financial problem is. If you invest your time and your kids’ time for reading good books, you invest better future for your family.

Anna Yulia lives in Tangerang, Indonesia. She is working as an education staff of Athalia School in Tangerang, Indonesia. Athalia School is a Christian School that provides education for playgroup, kindergarten and elementary level.

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Money Tips For Travelers

22 Feb

We hope that these money tips will help you save some money while traveling and make you trip more enjoyable.

PLANNING
Start with thorough trip planning. Use free destination guides. Buy a guidebook, it will pay for itself within the first day of your trip. Do not forget to buy a travel insurance, it will provide you with peace of mind while on a trip and prevent you from becoming a bankrupt if something happens.

It is becoming a popular trend – to buy your holiday using a credit card. This option allows you to have an official record of your purchases/bookings. Some cards also provide an additional insurance to the holder. American Express lets you transfer your purchasing points to your frequent flier program account. When you purchase an air ticket with MasterCard, the credit company automatically signs you up for an accidental life insurance with $100,000 coverage amount.

In order to save on your trip, travel with a partner(s). You can book a double hotel room for almost the same amount as a single one. By splitting accommodation and dining costs, taxis, car rental fees travelers in a group will save money.

BOOKING
For sightseeing try to travel off-season, usually October through April in the Northern hemisphere and April through October below the equator. You will be able to find cheaper airfare, find more budget rooms, spend less time in lines, and meet more local folks than tourists.

ACCOMMODATION
Keep written records of all accommodations you reserved. Learn the cancellation policies. Usually late cancellations or no shows are charged one night stay. If you have to cancel, try to do it long in advance. Reconfirm all reservations two days in advance by phone.

During summer and weekends year-round, you can get a fancy business hotel room at a cheap one-star hotel price.

DINING
You can save a lot of money by buying food at a local grocery store.

Eat according to the season. Order and buy food that is in season where you travel, it will cut down your dining expenses.

Avoid touristy restaurants, instead eat where local people eat. There you will find better food for less money.

Try to adapt to local cuisine, combine learning the local dining traditions with good prices.

Avoid breakfasts at hotels, they are usually high-priced.

Every country has menu specials. Learn simple words and you can dine well with locals anywhere for under $20.

TRANSPORTATION
Save money by driving in groups. For four people it is generally cheaper to share a rental car than to buy a bus ticket or a rail pass to travel between cities. Avoid renting a car in a big citiy, it is less convenient than using public transit. Airports usually have cheap and regular public transit connections to the town center.

Carefully choose parking spots. Thieves recognize and target tourist cars.

learn your rail options. If you travel a lot, buy rail passes. Three rides generally cost more than a day pass.

In Europe budget airlines can often get you from one city to another faster and cheaper than the train. Beware though: budget airlines often use small airports located far from town, which can cost a extra time and money. You also are allowed less luggage on board for free.

SHOPPING
Use your moneybelt to store the cash safely.

Students, families, and seniors should ask for special discounts.

Understand all fees and expenses. Ask to have all bills itemized. Do your own math when calculating the cost.

We wish you a successful and safe trip!

 
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Best top rated handheld shower head

22 Feb

Major technological advancements can be witnessed in the shower filters as now they are more powerful, soothing and beneficial. Now, people are in hunt to own best shower filter for their house so that they can safeguard their health and also can enjoy the soaking shower. But it is handheld shower head filter which is heading the list as they are handy to use and also better in comparison to others. Handheld shower head filter is the most flexible shower filter which is attached with array of features and benefits.

They are known to be popular among the women as they love to spend long hours in shower and same goes with the children too. Despite being handy and portable still they are very powerful and easy to use. Handheld shower head filter is powerful enough to eradicate chlorine from the water.along with the bad odor. They eliminate the chlorine to almost 98.9% of chlorine and rust from the water. Maximum handheld shower head filters can be increased to the height of 10 inches for further convenience.

Their main USP is that they are very known to be very versatile in stationary handheld positions. Being handy and portable they are highly adjustable and can be used in any position. They are known to be very popular as they thoroughly cleanse the body with chlorine free water. They are also fitted with powerful filter which not only eradicates the chlorine but also removes the bad odor from the water. Their light weight and smooth finishing makes them stand tall among the group.

Handheld shower head filter is very easy to install and its cartridge works from 6 to nine months that too depending upon the water quality. They also have inbuilt sensors which alert you when to change the cartridge.

Now, many handheld shower head filters are equipped with pH balancers which prove to be very beneficial. They have certainly become the necessity of every household as now everyone is growing health conscious day by day. This has led to the increase in the production of handheld shower head filters and simultaneously the boost in sales can also be noticed. Thus, for enjoying the clean, safe and soothing shower and that too without hassle then simply go in for handheld shower head filter.

For more information on Handheld shower head, please refer to http://www.quality-shower-filters.com

 
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How The Foreclosure Process Works

22 Feb

I dont know about the rest of the world, but there have been times in my life when I have felt as though I was one paycheck away from serious financial peril. Too bad Superman doesnt come to the rescue for matters such as this. One of my greatest fears has been losing a home because I lost my job or had an injured child (or injured self) that required me not to work for an extended period of time that exceeded my savings, or any of nearly a thousand reasons. The recent movie Fun With Dick and Jane struck a chord of sheer terror in my heart because bad things sometimes happen to good people. Good people have their lives ruined through circumstances that are completely and totally beyond their control.

With a foreclosure, there really isnt a bad guy. There is no mad banker waiting greedily in the wings to throw your family out on the street. The truth is most of these people have a great amount of compassion and come across as harsh because the decision to foreclose generally isnt up to them. Besides we signed on the dotted line when we decided to purchase a home. A home is, for most people, the single largest investment we make in our lives. The process of foreclosure can be frightening if you are armed with knowledge; it is absolutely terrifying if you are uninformed throughout the process.

Here are some things you should know about the foreclosure process.

1) First of all, a home does not go into foreclosure until you have become 3 months behind on your payments. Of course the goal is to never get behind at all, but we all know that stuff sometimes happens and some things are beyond our control. This means you do not have to exist in constant worry that if you are a few days late on your mortgage payment for a couple of months that the sky will fall. This is unlikely to be the case unless you are seriously behind. Be proactive and don’t let yourself get that far behind, or start working with the bank beforehand if you know it’s inevitable.

2) Once you are three months behind you will either go into what is called judicial foreclosure or non-judicial foreclosure. In a judicial foreclosure, a lawsuit is issued to the homeowner who can elect whether or not to respond. If the owner doesnt respond the home is auctioned off to the highest bidder unless the bid doesnt exceed the total amount owed on the home. In a non-judicial foreclosure the lending institution would issue a statement of default and notify the owner of its intent to sell the home. The owner at this time can possibly work to arrange an agreement and payment plan that is acceptable to the financial institution, or file a chapter 13 bankruptcy in order to stop the foreclosure. If this does not happen then the property will be sold.

3) Here is where it gets tricky. If the sale of the home doesnt result in a sum of money that is at least equal to the amount owed on the home, the original homeowner is responsible for the difference. Failure to pay the difference can be just as detrimental to your credit as the foreclosure itself.

The process of foreclosure is not fun; it is not meant to be. Dont overextend yourself credit wise. Buy a house you know you can afford and live below your means.

 
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Green Is Not Your Color

22 Feb

You have got your flights scheduled and transportation arranged to your cruise ships port. A nice cabin with a little balcony is just waiting for you to sit and enjoy the ocean views. Theres just one little problem thats niggling at the back of your mind what if you get seasick? That is the dreaded fear of any first-time cruiser.

Upset stomach, motion sickness, sea sickness, green around the gills there are many names for it. Basically, seasickness can be traced back to your ears. What do your ears have to do with being sick to your stomach? It is all a mater of balance; there are little nerve strands in your inner ear that become over sensitized. Your sense of perception is thrown out of whack when these little nerve strands try to make up for the strange rocking or bobbing motions of the ship.

Most people get their sea legs after a few days on the ship. However, by that time you will have spent about half of your trip inside the confines of a bathroom. Thats no fun! Luckily, there are some over the counter options as well as some alternative remedies that should get you up and moving more quickly or even prevent seasickness from occurring.

Dramamine is probably the most widely know seasickness treatment. It is available over the counter without a prescription. Dramamine has anti-histamines in it so it probably will make you sleepy or lethargic. For those who would rather see a view other than a toilet, this is probably not a bad option. It is recommended that your take a dose a few hours before you set sail.

You can make a doctors visit before your cruise to get a prescription for a motion sickness patch. This patch is usually put behind the ear and releases a continuous stream of medicine that enters the blood by way of skin absorption. If you put the patch on a few hours before you set sail, it should start working and stay effective for several days. Unfortunately, there are a few side effects that could include sleepiness, cotton mouth and distorted vision. Mixing alcohol with the effects of the patch could enhance those side effects.

If you are a proponent of acupuncture and other homeopathic cures, consider wearing a Sea-Band. This wristband has a button on the inside of it that pushes against pressure points inside your wrist area, using the theory of acupressure. The queasiness that accompanies seasickness often goes away using this acupressure technique.

Dry crackers, ginger ale and even crystallized ginger often work for pregnant women with morning sickness, so the same theory applies for seasickness. Lying down often eases some of the symptoms as would inhaling some of the fresh ocean air. Some people swear that by maintaining your eye on the horizon, your equilibrium improves.

There is just no way to know if you will get seasick unless you set sail. However, there are some good indicators that you might be vulnerable to seasickness. For instance, if you get sick in a car or airplane, you could prepare yourself for the possibility of seasickness by popping a Dramamine or wear a Sea-Band. To lessen your chances of an episode of seasickness, book a room with a porthole or window so you can see the horizon. But most of all, remember that the bigger the cruise ship, the more stability it has and the less likelihood of feeling a wavy motion that can cause seasickness. Being prepared for the possibility is all you can do, so look forward to your cruise and bring some clothing that goes well with green, just in case.

 
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How To Properly Set Up Tropical Fish Tanks

22 Feb

Getting a fish tank can be exciting and often one of the first things you will want to do is run out and get new fish at the exact same time. This is when you need to know about how to properly set up your tropical fish tanks to ensure you do not kill the new fish you are getting and quickly get discouraged and take down the tank. However, by learning more about how to set your tank up properly, you will see the fish you want to get will be happy and easily start to provide you with hours of entertainment. Here are some of the steps you will want to take on how to set up your tank to ensure your fish are going to be happy.

The first thing you need to do is verify that all of your items are present. Now the main thing you will need to look at is the tank, but you also need to find out about any types of heaters, pumps, and filters as well. By verifying these are present you can start to check your tank out for leaks or any other types of blemishes which can lead to you not wanting to use the tank for the purpose of keeping your fish in.

You may have already checked to see if your items are present, but you need to look at the tank and decide where you will want to put it at. While you are evaluating this step you need to ensure you have enough cord room available because a larger fish tank will commonly have three items to plug in and these items can easily lead to you not having enough plugs present in the area you are putting the tank in.

After you have set the tank on a sturdy table or stand you will want to take the gravel that you have for your aquarium, preferably, the gravel is some you have found from the store and rinse this off. By rinsing this item off under water, it will be easy for you to remove any of the dust which is leftover, but you can also be rinsing off any chemicals which may have remained on the rocks form the bags they were stored in. Then you will want to take and spread the gravel evenly on the bottom of your tank. Now the key here is you want to have at least a half inch if not a full inch deep of gravel for the bottom of your aquarium. If you go to shallow on this, you fish can easily dig down to the glass, but also the deeper the gravel will provide more of a trap of the particles which are present.

When the gravel is in and any artificial plants are in place, you will want to place a cereal bowl on the bottom of the tank. Now you may be puzzled why you should use this, but it is because the cereal bowl will be a great item for you to pour your water into. Once you have started to pour the water in the bowl it will start to overflow. Then you will notice your gravel is not being uprooted and will remain in place. If you pour the water straight in, it can work as well, but you will have to repave all of your gravel and this can be a difficult task to do.

Setting up the filter and heaters on the tank wall is something else you will want to do. This is assuming you have a back filter which fits on the tank. If not you should install the filter when it is proper, for example an under gravel filter needs to be installed before the gravel is placed in the tank. Then you will want to rinse the carbon filter you have for your tank and start the filter system up. You will also want to plug the heater in as well, but you will only do those two items when the water is at a high enough level to sustain the items.

Place the lid and light on the tank and allow it to sit for a couple of days to a week. During this time you will want to make sure the tank is not leaking, the heater is warming the tank up, and the filter is working properly. After this, you will be able to have your tank building up the bacteria and other items the fish will need to survive in your tank.

Once the week time frame is up your fish tank will be ready for the tropical fish that you love. Then you will want to go to a reputable pet store and buy some fish for your tank. Now again you may be anxious to buy a dozen or so fish at one time. However, this will be a mistake and you should buy at most four fish at any one time. This will allow your tank to adapt to the fish and allow the fish to slowly adjust to the new tank without overwhelming them with the change all at once.

Setting up an aquarium may seem like this is a hard job to do, but you need to realize this is not as hard as what you thought at first. The reason this is not as hard is you may want to rush out and get your fish right away, but after reading this you know this is the first mistake you can make. Since this can easily be avoided, it will be easy to keep your spirits up about how your tank is coming along and not rush things because you have managed to follow the steps that were provided here on how to set up your tank properly. Without following this advice and rushing matters it is easy to get your fish and have them all die off on you right away because your tank was not prepared properly for getting fish, then you will be discouraged and easily think you cannot have an aquarium.

Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying freshwater tropical fish, I now decided to write about my experiences on FreshwaterTropicalFish.org.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leslie_Bogaerts

 
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The Magic Of Magic Mountain

22 Feb

Magic Mountain is perhaps one of the most well known theme parks in the United States. The park is located in Valencia California, which is North of Los Angeles. The park opened in the summer of 1971 just in time to attract the summer crowds of families that were off of work and school and looking to have some fun. In 1979 Six Flags purchased Magic Mountain, and so the park adopted the Six Flags Magic Mountain name that it has carried ever since. Even with a big chain like Six Flags, Magic Mountain remains one of its most well-known and visited theme parks.

Magic Mountain is not only visited often, it has been the backdrop for many movies. Magic Mountain was the fictional Wally World in the movie National Lampoons Vacation, the theme park was also shown in the show Step by Step, and was a fictional theme park shown in the movie Encino Man. Being in so many movies and on television is a testament to the fact that the park is not only a great place to have a good time, but is such an ideal setting that it is good enough for television! The great thing is, it isnt just a set and all those excited people that you see arent acting, the park provides a great experience for the whole family.

In April of 2006 Six Flags Magic Mountain will officially break the record for the most roller coasters in one park! For several years now, Six Flags Magic Mountain and Cedar point have been tied for the prestigious title, but when the new Tatsu roller coaster is completed Magic Mountain will have the title to itself, for now at least. If roller coasters are what bring you to Magic Mountain, it is worth noting that all of the roller coasters are not operating at all times. On the weekends and over holiday weekends youll see the majority of the coasters operational, but if you are coming to the park for a particular ride, its a good idea to call ahead and see if the ride you have been looking forward to will be operational on the day you plan to come. If you are just looking for a good time full of great roller coasters and rides for the whole family and you dont have any favorites or specifics, then you can come any time the park is open and expect to have a marvelous time. Some of the rides that have made Six Flags Magic Mountain a entertainment destination are Batman the Ride, Colossus, Dj vu, Scream, Superman, Viper, Goliath, and X.

Not only can you have a marvelous time, you dont have the break the bank doing it. Sure, theme park admission is never cheap, but considering the amount and quality of entertainment youll receive when you visit Six Flags Magic Mountain, the cost is more than worth it. Admission for adults is a reasonable $59.99, $29.99 for children, and admission for children two and under is free! Its true that you wouldnt want to pay these admission prices every day, but every once and again Magic Mountain is certainly worth these prices. Not only will you have the opportunity to ride all of the rides, but Magic Mountain also offers a variety of shows and entertainment that will make the price of admission even more of a bargain, not to mention entertainment that the whole family will find unforgettable. Because the theme park caters to the whole family, every member of the family will find something that they love at Magic Mountain. Youll find that there is often great music, fantastic rides, and delicious food to eat when you tire from your Magic Mountain entertainment.

If youll be traveling to Magic Mountain you will definitely need to think about lodging. Not only is Magic Mountain relatively affordable, great restaurants as well as quality and affordable lodging also surround it. Youll have your choice of large chain restaurants and restaurants that cater just to the Magic Mountain area with food choices galore. Some great lodging choices in the area would be:

The Best Western Valencia Inn
27413 Wayne Mills Place
Valencia, California 91355
(800) 944-7446

The Comfort Inn
31558 Castaic Road
Castaic, California 91384
(661) 295-1100

The Comfort Suites
25380 The Old Road
Stevenson Ranch, California 91381
(800) 228-5150

The Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags
27710 The Old Road
Valencia, California 91355
(800) Hiltons
(661) 254-8800

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites
27513 Wayne Mills Place
Valencia, California 91355
(661) 284-2101
(800) Holiday

The Super 8 Motel-SYLMAR
14955 Roxford Street
Sylmar, California 91342
(661) 260-1501
(800) 888-8220

These are not the only lodging opportunities in the area, but they are all great choices and near enough that you will not get lost going to and from the theme park. Luckily, the park is in a good area so even if you do get lost you dont have to worry about ending up in unsavory parts of town where you are afraid to ask for directions to either your hotel or Six Flags Magic Mountain. Because the them park is such a destination, there are signs all over the area that will help lead you to Magic Mountain in the most efficient manner so that you dont have to use Internet directions or maps that may only confuse you.

Generally, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a great experience for families or anyone looking to have a good time. Although many say that old-fashioned fun is a thing of the past, it still exists when you visit this theme park. Simple fun is brought back with roller coasters, live entertainment, theme park food, and real interactions with friends and family. Whether you live nearby or you travel a great distance to Magic Mountain, youll find the rides thrilling, and the time and money well spent no matter what your age may be and how many theme parks you may have visited in your life. Magic Mountain is one of the most well known Six Flags theme parks for a reason, and that reason is because its outstanding!

 
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My Bout With Archery

22 Feb

I have this crazy job where I get to haul off and try new things every so often and then write a review about it for people to read. It’s a job that I didn’t know existed and therefore that I never planned to pursue. It sort of just fell into my lap one day and it has been the perfect job for me ever since. I love it. My days are filled with new things, sometimes safe and sometimes risky. Quite often I pick up great new hobbies that I’ll have for a lifetime and other times I try something once that I’ll never touch again. I recently had an interesting bout with archery.

I’ll admit that I didn’t know much about archery until I was assigned to a day at an archery field receiving lessons. I wasn’t all that excited about my task simply because there was nothing that sounded appealing about shooting arrows at a target a distance away from me. I couldn’t figure out why people would invest time, talent and money into such an activity, or a sport as many called it.

I arrived at the archery field full of skepticism and a desire to have the day finished. I was convinced that this would be one of the days that my job was my enemy and when I couldn’t wait to get back home. I was wrong. From the moment I met the directors of the archery field to the moment I returned to my car four hours later, I enjoyed myself. I learned a lot about archery and I realized that it truly was a sport that I could enjoy and that was worth some time and energy.

Archery takes a lot more concentration and hard work than I first imagined it would. I ignorantly thought that I’d be able to walk onto the archery field and shoot my arrows directly into the center of the target. I wondered why anyone couldn’t accomplish this task. I was rudely awakened to how hard archery really is. I quickly gained appreciation for all people who have taken the time to perfect their archery skills.

Since this first experience with archery I’ll admit that I have been back to the course multiple times. I have gathered there with many groups of friends and enjoyed afternoons full of laughter and stubborn trying to get it right. If you are looking for a great new hobby and a way to work on your concentration and even strength, then archery is for you.

 
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