13th Week in Ordinary Time
Thomas, Apostle
1st Reading: Eph 2:19–22
Now you are no longer strangers or guests, but fellow citizens of the holy people: you are of the household of God. You are the house whose foundations are the apostles and prophets, and whose cornerstone is Christ Jesus. In him the whole structure is joined together and rises to be a holy temple in the Lord. In him you too are being built to become the spiritual sanctuary of God.
Gospel: Jn 20:24–29
Thomas, the Twin, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he replied, “Until I have seen in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”
Eight days later, the disciples were inside again and Thomas was with them. Despite the locked doors Jesus came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands; stretch out your hand and put it into my side. Resist no longer and be a believer.”
Thomas then said, “You are my Lord and my God.” Jesus replied, “You believe because you see me, don’t you? Happy are those who have not seen and believe.”
REFLECTION
Saint Thomas was a pessimist. Some people rejoice to see a glass half-full, but Thomas saw it half-empty. He was full of courage; but he also possessed a streak of fatalism. On Good Friday, he had lost all hope as they hung his master on a cross on the Roman killing fields of Golgotha. Then again, Thomas….."Doubting Thomas", as he is sometimes called…..was the first disciple to put into words the truth that Jesus is both God and man. We Christians know that Jesus was divine; human, of course, but not only that: he was unique, the one human being in whom God was incarnate.
Because of that, we must never lose hope! Forgiveness of our sins is found through our identification with Jesus’ self-sacrifice. We need to think of Christianity as more inclusive than any single doctrine. There have been many movements in human history, initiated by those simple but wonderful events in Palestine, centering around the person of Jesus. The older we become, the more we grow in wonder at the enormous and diverse effects in human history that can be traced to the teachings, the deeds, the death and the resurrection of that one, single man……Jesus Christ!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Reducing Toxins in Your Body
I am about cutting through the nonsense and providing you specifics on what you can do to feel better everyday.
Practiced for centuries by many cultures around the world — including Chinese medicine systems — detoxification is about resting, cleaning and nourishing the body from the inside out. By removing and eliminating toxins, then feeding your body with healthy nutrients, detoxifying can help protect you from disease and renew your ability to maintain optimum health.
Too many people become obsessive about eating foods that are not organic in order to reduce toxins in their bodies.
Following are the 7 quickest and most painless things you can do in order to reduce the amount of toxins in your body:
1) Eliminate Diet Soda with artificial sweeteners (Try a Stevia alternative)
2) Eliminate fluoride toothpaste (try a natural alternative)
3) Install a water filter in your shower that eliminates chlorine in the water
4) Throw away the Windex and ammonia based cleaners and use a natural alternative
5) Eat fast food no more than once per month
6) East Organic foods at home at least 50% of the time
7) Install a water filter on your faucet for drinking water
I have found these 7 recommendations very easy to do and very painless. Since I implemented these, I am not going on 2.5 years without getting sick (longest stretch in my life).
Practiced for centuries by many cultures around the world — including Chinese medicine systems — detoxification is about resting, cleaning and nourishing the body from the inside out. By removing and eliminating toxins, then feeding your body with healthy nutrients, detoxifying can help protect you from disease and renew your ability to maintain optimum health.
Too many people become obsessive about eating foods that are not organic in order to reduce toxins in their bodies.
Following are the 7 quickest and most painless things you can do in order to reduce the amount of toxins in your body:
1) Eliminate Diet Soda with artificial sweeteners (Try a Stevia alternative)
2) Eliminate fluoride toothpaste (try a natural alternative)
3) Install a water filter in your shower that eliminates chlorine in the water
4) Throw away the Windex and ammonia based cleaners and use a natural alternative
5) Eat fast food no more than once per month
6) East Organic foods at home at least 50% of the time
7) Install a water filter on your faucet for drinking water
I have found these 7 recommendations very easy to do and very painless. Since I implemented these, I am not going on 2.5 years without getting sick (longest stretch in my life).
Friday, April 24, 2009
Earthquake Facts
-The largest recorded earthquake in the United States was a magnitude 9.2 that struck Prince William Sound, Alaska on Good Friday, March 28, 1964 UTC.
The largest recorded earthquake in the world was a magnitude 9.5 (Mw) in Chile on May 22, 1960
-The earliest reported earthquake in California was felt in 1769 by the exploring expedition of Gaspar de Portola while the group was camping about 48 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of Los Angeles.
-Before electronics allowed recordings of large earthquakes, scientists built large spring-pendulum seismometers in an attempt to record the long-period motion produced by such quakes. The largest one weighed about 15 tons. There is a medium-sized one three stories high in Mexico City that is still in operation.
-The average rate of motion across the San Andreas Fault Zone during the past 3 million years is 56 mm/yr (2 in/yr). This is about the same rate at which your fingernails grow. Assuming this rate continues, scientists project that Los Angeles and San Francisco will be adjacent to one another in approximately 15 million years.
-The East African Rift System is a 50-60 km (31-37 miles) wide zone of active volcanics and faulting that extends north-south in eastern Africa for more than 3000 km (1864 miles) from Ethiopia in the north to Zambezi in the south. It is a rare example of an active continental rift zone, where a continental plate is attempting to split into two plates which are moving away from one another.
-The first "pendulum seismoscope" to measure the shaking of the ground during an earthquake was developed in 1751, and it wasn't until 1855 that faults were recognized as the source of earthquakes.
-Moonquakes ("earthquakes" on the moon) do occur, but they happen less frequently and have smaller magnitudes than earthquakes on the Earth. It appears they are related to the tidal stresses associated with the varying distance between the Earth and Moon. They also occur at great depth, about halfway between the surface and the center of the moon.
-Although both are sea waves, a tsunami and a tidal wave are two different unrelated phenomenona. A tidal wave is a shallow water wave caused by the gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. A tsunami is a sea wave caused by an underwater earthquake or landslide (usually triggered by an earthquake) displacing the ocean water.
-The hypocenter of an earthquake is the location beneath the earth's surface where the rupture of the fault begins. The epicenter of an earthquake is the location directly above the hypocenter on the surface of the earth.
-The greatest mountain range is the Mid-Ocean Ridge, extending 64,374 km (40,000 mi) from the Arctic Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, around Africa, Asia, and Australia, and under the Pacific Ocean to the west coast of North America. It has a greatest height of 4207 m (13,800 ft) above the base ocean depth.
-The world's greatest land mountain range is the Himalaya-Karakoram. It countains 96 of the world's 109 peaks of over 7317 m (24,000 ft). The longest range is the Andes of South America which is 7564 km (4700 mi) in length. Both were created bythe movement of tectonic plates
-It is estimated that there are 500,000 detectable earthquakes in the world each year. 100,000 of those can be felt, and 100 of them cause damage.
-It is thought that more damage was done by the resulting fire after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake than by the earthquake itself.
-A seiche (pronounced SAYSH) is what happens in the swimming pools of Californians during and after an earthquake. It is "an internal wave oscillating in a body of water" or, in other words, it is the sloshing of the water in your swimming pool, or any body of water, caused by the ground shaking in an earthquake. It may continue for a few moments or hours, long after the generating force is gone. A seiche can also be caused by wind or tides.
-Each year the southern California area has about 10,000 earthquakes. Most of them are so small that they are not felt. Only several hundred are greater than magnitude 3.0, and only about 15-20 are greater than magnitude 4.0. If there is a large earthquake, however, the aftershock sequence will produce many more earthquakes of all magnitudes for many months.
-The magnitude of an earthquake is a measured value of the earthquake size. The magnitude is the same no matter where you are, or how strong or weak the shaking was in various locations.
-The intensity of an earthquake is a measure of the shaking created by the earthquake, and this value does vary with location.
-The Wasatch Range, with its outstanding ski areas, runs North-South through Utah, and like all mountain ranges it was produced by a series of earthquakes. The 386 km (240-mile)-long Wasatch Fault is made up of several segments, each capable of producing up to a M7.5 earthquake. During the past 6000 years, there has been a M6.5 about once every 350 years, and it has been about 350 years since the last powerful earthquake, which was on the Nephi segment.
-There is no such thing as "earthquake weather". Statistically, there is an equal distribution of earthquakes in cold weather, hot weather, rainy weather, etc. Furthermore, there is no physical way that the weather could affect the forces several miles beneath the surface of the earth. The changes in barometric pressure in the atmosphere are very small compared to the forces in the crust, and the effect of the barometric pressure does not reach beneath the soil.
-From 1975-1995 there were only four states that did not have any earthquakes. They were: Florida, Iowa, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
The core of the earth was the first internal structural element to be identified. In
1906 R.D. Oldham discovered it from his studies of earthquake records. The inner core is solid, and the outer core is liquid and so does not transmit the shear wave energy released during an earthquake.
-The swimming pool at the University of Arizona in Tucson lost water from sloshing (seiche) caused by the 1985 M8.1 Michoacan, Mexico earthquake 2000 km (1240 miles) away.
-Earthquakes occur in the central portion of the United States too! Some very powerful earthquakes occurred along the New Madrid fault in the Mississippi Valley in 1811-1812. Because of the crustal structure in the Central US which efficiently propagates seismic energy, shaking from earthquakes in this part of the country are felt at a much greater distance from the epicenters than similar size quakes in the Western US.
-Most earthquakes occur at depths of less than 80 km (50 miles) from the Earth's surface
-The San Andreas fault is NOT a single, continuous fault, but rather is actually a fault zone made up of many segments. Movement may occur along any of the many fault segments along the zone at any time. The San Andreas fault system is more that 1300 km (800 miles) long, and in some spots is as much as 16 km (10 miles) deep.
-The world's deadliest recorded earthquake occurred in 1556 in central China. It struck a region where most people lived in caves carved from soft rock. These dwellings collapsed during the earthquake, killing an estimated 830,000 people. In 1976 another deadly earthquake struck in Tangshan, China, where more than 250,000 people were killed.
-Florida and North Dakota have the smallest number of earthquakes in the United States.
-The deepest earthquakes typically occur at plate boundaries where the Earth's crust is being subducted into the Earth's mantle. These occur as deep as 750 km (400 miles) below the surface.
-Alaska is the most earthquake-prone state and one of the most seismically active regions in the world. Alaska experiences a magnitude 7 earthquake almost every year, and a magnitude 8 or greater earthquake on average every 14 years.
-The majority of the earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur along plate boundaries such as the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American plate. One of the most active plate boundaries where earthquakes and eruptions are frequent, for example, is around the massive Pacific Plate commonly referred to as the Pacific Ring of Fire.
-The earliest recorded evidence of an earthquake has been traced back to 1831 BC in the Shandong province of China, but there is a fairly complete record starting in 780 BC during the Zhou Dynasty in China.
-It was recognized as early as 350 BC by the Greek scientist Aristotle that soft ground shakes more than hard rock in an earthquake.
-The cause of earthquakes was stated correctly in 1760 by British engineer John Michell, one of the first fathers of seismology, in a memoir where he wrote that earthquakes and the waves of energy that they make are caused by "shifting masses of rock miles below the surface".
-In 1663 the European settlers experienced their first earthquake in America.
Human beings can detect sounds in the frequency range 20-10,000 Hertz. If a P wave refracts out of the rock surface into the air, and it has a frequency in the audible range, it will be heard as a rumble. Most earthquake waves have a frequency of less than 20 Hz, so the waves themselves are usually not heard. Most of the rumbling noise heard during an earthquake is the building and its contents moving.
-When the Chilean earthquake occurred in 1960, seismographs recorded seismic waves that traveled all around the Earth. These seismic waves shook the entire earth for many days! This phenomenon is called the free oscillation of the Earth.
The origin of the name of the San Andreas Fault is often cited as the San Andreas Lake. However, based on some 1895 and 1908 reports by geologist A.C. Lawson, who named the fault, the name was actually taken from the San Andreas Valley. He likely did not realize at the time that the fault ran almost the entire length of California!
-The interior of Antarctica has icequakes which, although they are much smaller, are perhaps more frequent than earthquakes in Antarctica. The icequakes are similar to earthquakes, but occur within the ice sheet itself instead of the land underneath the ice. Some of our polar observers have told us they can hear the icequakes and see them on the South Pole seismograph station, but they are much too small to be seen on enough stations to obtain a location.
The largest recorded earthquake in the world was a magnitude 9.5 (Mw) in Chile on May 22, 1960
-The earliest reported earthquake in California was felt in 1769 by the exploring expedition of Gaspar de Portola while the group was camping about 48 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of Los Angeles.
-Before electronics allowed recordings of large earthquakes, scientists built large spring-pendulum seismometers in an attempt to record the long-period motion produced by such quakes. The largest one weighed about 15 tons. There is a medium-sized one three stories high in Mexico City that is still in operation.
-The average rate of motion across the San Andreas Fault Zone during the past 3 million years is 56 mm/yr (2 in/yr). This is about the same rate at which your fingernails grow. Assuming this rate continues, scientists project that Los Angeles and San Francisco will be adjacent to one another in approximately 15 million years.
-The East African Rift System is a 50-60 km (31-37 miles) wide zone of active volcanics and faulting that extends north-south in eastern Africa for more than 3000 km (1864 miles) from Ethiopia in the north to Zambezi in the south. It is a rare example of an active continental rift zone, where a continental plate is attempting to split into two plates which are moving away from one another.
-The first "pendulum seismoscope" to measure the shaking of the ground during an earthquake was developed in 1751, and it wasn't until 1855 that faults were recognized as the source of earthquakes.
-Moonquakes ("earthquakes" on the moon) do occur, but they happen less frequently and have smaller magnitudes than earthquakes on the Earth. It appears they are related to the tidal stresses associated with the varying distance between the Earth and Moon. They also occur at great depth, about halfway between the surface and the center of the moon.
-Although both are sea waves, a tsunami and a tidal wave are two different unrelated phenomenona. A tidal wave is a shallow water wave caused by the gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. A tsunami is a sea wave caused by an underwater earthquake or landslide (usually triggered by an earthquake) displacing the ocean water.
-The hypocenter of an earthquake is the location beneath the earth's surface where the rupture of the fault begins. The epicenter of an earthquake is the location directly above the hypocenter on the surface of the earth.
-The greatest mountain range is the Mid-Ocean Ridge, extending 64,374 km (40,000 mi) from the Arctic Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, around Africa, Asia, and Australia, and under the Pacific Ocean to the west coast of North America. It has a greatest height of 4207 m (13,800 ft) above the base ocean depth.
-The world's greatest land mountain range is the Himalaya-Karakoram. It countains 96 of the world's 109 peaks of over 7317 m (24,000 ft). The longest range is the Andes of South America which is 7564 km (4700 mi) in length. Both were created bythe movement of tectonic plates
-It is estimated that there are 500,000 detectable earthquakes in the world each year. 100,000 of those can be felt, and 100 of them cause damage.
-It is thought that more damage was done by the resulting fire after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake than by the earthquake itself.
-A seiche (pronounced SAYSH) is what happens in the swimming pools of Californians during and after an earthquake. It is "an internal wave oscillating in a body of water" or, in other words, it is the sloshing of the water in your swimming pool, or any body of water, caused by the ground shaking in an earthquake. It may continue for a few moments or hours, long after the generating force is gone. A seiche can also be caused by wind or tides.
-Each year the southern California area has about 10,000 earthquakes. Most of them are so small that they are not felt. Only several hundred are greater than magnitude 3.0, and only about 15-20 are greater than magnitude 4.0. If there is a large earthquake, however, the aftershock sequence will produce many more earthquakes of all magnitudes for many months.
-The magnitude of an earthquake is a measured value of the earthquake size. The magnitude is the same no matter where you are, or how strong or weak the shaking was in various locations.
-The intensity of an earthquake is a measure of the shaking created by the earthquake, and this value does vary with location.
-The Wasatch Range, with its outstanding ski areas, runs North-South through Utah, and like all mountain ranges it was produced by a series of earthquakes. The 386 km (240-mile)-long Wasatch Fault is made up of several segments, each capable of producing up to a M7.5 earthquake. During the past 6000 years, there has been a M6.5 about once every 350 years, and it has been about 350 years since the last powerful earthquake, which was on the Nephi segment.
-There is no such thing as "earthquake weather". Statistically, there is an equal distribution of earthquakes in cold weather, hot weather, rainy weather, etc. Furthermore, there is no physical way that the weather could affect the forces several miles beneath the surface of the earth. The changes in barometric pressure in the atmosphere are very small compared to the forces in the crust, and the effect of the barometric pressure does not reach beneath the soil.
-From 1975-1995 there were only four states that did not have any earthquakes. They were: Florida, Iowa, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
The core of the earth was the first internal structural element to be identified. In
1906 R.D. Oldham discovered it from his studies of earthquake records. The inner core is solid, and the outer core is liquid and so does not transmit the shear wave energy released during an earthquake.
-The swimming pool at the University of Arizona in Tucson lost water from sloshing (seiche) caused by the 1985 M8.1 Michoacan, Mexico earthquake 2000 km (1240 miles) away.
-Earthquakes occur in the central portion of the United States too! Some very powerful earthquakes occurred along the New Madrid fault in the Mississippi Valley in 1811-1812. Because of the crustal structure in the Central US which efficiently propagates seismic energy, shaking from earthquakes in this part of the country are felt at a much greater distance from the epicenters than similar size quakes in the Western US.
-Most earthquakes occur at depths of less than 80 km (50 miles) from the Earth's surface
-The San Andreas fault is NOT a single, continuous fault, but rather is actually a fault zone made up of many segments. Movement may occur along any of the many fault segments along the zone at any time. The San Andreas fault system is more that 1300 km (800 miles) long, and in some spots is as much as 16 km (10 miles) deep.
-The world's deadliest recorded earthquake occurred in 1556 in central China. It struck a region where most people lived in caves carved from soft rock. These dwellings collapsed during the earthquake, killing an estimated 830,000 people. In 1976 another deadly earthquake struck in Tangshan, China, where more than 250,000 people were killed.
-Florida and North Dakota have the smallest number of earthquakes in the United States.
-The deepest earthquakes typically occur at plate boundaries where the Earth's crust is being subducted into the Earth's mantle. These occur as deep as 750 km (400 miles) below the surface.
-Alaska is the most earthquake-prone state and one of the most seismically active regions in the world. Alaska experiences a magnitude 7 earthquake almost every year, and a magnitude 8 or greater earthquake on average every 14 years.
-The majority of the earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur along plate boundaries such as the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American plate. One of the most active plate boundaries where earthquakes and eruptions are frequent, for example, is around the massive Pacific Plate commonly referred to as the Pacific Ring of Fire.
-The earliest recorded evidence of an earthquake has been traced back to 1831 BC in the Shandong province of China, but there is a fairly complete record starting in 780 BC during the Zhou Dynasty in China.
-It was recognized as early as 350 BC by the Greek scientist Aristotle that soft ground shakes more than hard rock in an earthquake.
-The cause of earthquakes was stated correctly in 1760 by British engineer John Michell, one of the first fathers of seismology, in a memoir where he wrote that earthquakes and the waves of energy that they make are caused by "shifting masses of rock miles below the surface".
-In 1663 the European settlers experienced their first earthquake in America.
Human beings can detect sounds in the frequency range 20-10,000 Hertz. If a P wave refracts out of the rock surface into the air, and it has a frequency in the audible range, it will be heard as a rumble. Most earthquake waves have a frequency of less than 20 Hz, so the waves themselves are usually not heard. Most of the rumbling noise heard during an earthquake is the building and its contents moving.
-When the Chilean earthquake occurred in 1960, seismographs recorded seismic waves that traveled all around the Earth. These seismic waves shook the entire earth for many days! This phenomenon is called the free oscillation of the Earth.
The origin of the name of the San Andreas Fault is often cited as the San Andreas Lake. However, based on some 1895 and 1908 reports by geologist A.C. Lawson, who named the fault, the name was actually taken from the San Andreas Valley. He likely did not realize at the time that the fault ran almost the entire length of California!
-The interior of Antarctica has icequakes which, although they are much smaller, are perhaps more frequent than earthquakes in Antarctica. The icequakes are similar to earthquakes, but occur within the ice sheet itself instead of the land underneath the ice. Some of our polar observers have told us they can hear the icequakes and see them on the South Pole seismograph station, but they are much too small to be seen on enough stations to obtain a location.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
7 Ways to Get More Energy
1. Replace Coffee with Peppermint Tea
According to Alan Hirsch, director of Neurological Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, the aroma of peppermint keeps us awake and energized. Whereas, coffee aroma dries our kidney glands and gets us tired easily.
2. Eat right
Leaving an empty and hungry stomach for three hours would drastically reduce our blood sugar. You would easily get tired and somehow emotionally unstable. Moreover, it would make you want to eat more than ever. Have high vitamin B snacks in between meals to maintain your energy. Banana, almond, low-fat-yoghurt, and fresh berries won’t hurt!
3. No Alarm
A research by University of Washington School of Medicine has proven that sleeping with a light on enhances our energy, mood, and productivity. Using alarms to wake up in the morning would only get you stressed.
4. Body Butter Treatment
Massage your back and ankle with lavender, peppermint, or lemon body butter to get you relaxed and energized.
5. Massage
A massage smoothens our blood flow, and therefore freshen up our body. Pay a visit to a day spa to get a professional treatment.
6. Play with water
Have a long warm bath or sauna to relax your intense muscle and tired body.
7. Doing nothing
Make time to have a complete rest by doing nothing. Your body needs to have a break every once in a while.
According to Alan Hirsch, director of Neurological Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, the aroma of peppermint keeps us awake and energized. Whereas, coffee aroma dries our kidney glands and gets us tired easily.
2. Eat right
Leaving an empty and hungry stomach for three hours would drastically reduce our blood sugar. You would easily get tired and somehow emotionally unstable. Moreover, it would make you want to eat more than ever. Have high vitamin B snacks in between meals to maintain your energy. Banana, almond, low-fat-yoghurt, and fresh berries won’t hurt!
3. No Alarm
A research by University of Washington School of Medicine has proven that sleeping with a light on enhances our energy, mood, and productivity. Using alarms to wake up in the morning would only get you stressed.
4. Body Butter Treatment
Massage your back and ankle with lavender, peppermint, or lemon body butter to get you relaxed and energized.
5. Massage
A massage smoothens our blood flow, and therefore freshen up our body. Pay a visit to a day spa to get a professional treatment.
6. Play with water
Have a long warm bath or sauna to relax your intense muscle and tired body.
7. Doing nothing
Make time to have a complete rest by doing nothing. Your body needs to have a break every once in a while.
Friday, March 13, 2009
How to make your home a greener place
Step1:
Have your child save empty tin cans and bottles in a box or bag by the refrigerator. When the bag gets full, remove and store in the garage. When your child saves up five to ten bags, haul them to your recycling center and let them keep the money. Teach them recycling and saving money.
Step 2:
Find old ankle socks in your drawer. Have your child paint or color on the socks with fabric markers or paints. These become special dusting mitts for their hands. When they're ready to dust, they can slip on the mitts, get to work and throw them in the wash when they're done.
Step 3:
Keep an Energy Saver chart by your child's bed. Every time they turn off a light, radio or television that has been left on in the house, they get a star sticker on the chart. Twenty stars gets them the energy-friendly prize of your choice, like going on a walk or a hike with mom or dad.
Step 4:
So many papers come from school in backpacks. Every week, have your child collect their papers that only have writing on one side of them. Keep a stack near the computer and reuse the blank sides of these papers in the printer.
Step 5:
Instead of buying new clothes for the school year, visit the thrift store with your kids. Let them help look for quality used clothes at bargain prices. You'll grow some thrifty adults with healthy values as well as reusing items that are still in good shape.
Have your child save empty tin cans and bottles in a box or bag by the refrigerator. When the bag gets full, remove and store in the garage. When your child saves up five to ten bags, haul them to your recycling center and let them keep the money. Teach them recycling and saving money.
Step 2:
Find old ankle socks in your drawer. Have your child paint or color on the socks with fabric markers or paints. These become special dusting mitts for their hands. When they're ready to dust, they can slip on the mitts, get to work and throw them in the wash when they're done.
Step 3:
Keep an Energy Saver chart by your child's bed. Every time they turn off a light, radio or television that has been left on in the house, they get a star sticker on the chart. Twenty stars gets them the energy-friendly prize of your choice, like going on a walk or a hike with mom or dad.
Step 4:
So many papers come from school in backpacks. Every week, have your child collect their papers that only have writing on one side of them. Keep a stack near the computer and reuse the blank sides of these papers in the printer.
Step 5:
Instead of buying new clothes for the school year, visit the thrift store with your kids. Let them help look for quality used clothes at bargain prices. You'll grow some thrifty adults with healthy values as well as reusing items that are still in good shape.
How to save at the grocery store
Step1:
Start with a Meal plan system in your household. This will allow you to have a pretty good idea of what is needed for the month. When you go to the grocery store you are only buying what items are needed to make the meals on the calendar for the month.
Step2:
Remember these stores are in business to make you spend money. So understand the layout of the grocery store. The goal is to have you make it around the whole store before leaving and hope you grab a few extra items along the way.
Step3:
Having grocery List allows you to have a written plan when entering the store. This will help you make better spending decisions. Now you have a written list of what needed and you will not be randomly placing items into you cart.
Step4:
Shop with coupons can save hundreds of dollars a month. You can find these coupons in your local newspapers and over the internet. You will be surprised how much local stores and companies spend in advertising just to get you into their stores. But remember they want you to spend more money to and buy those impulse items.
Step5:
Buying in bulk at Wal Mart and Costco and other wholesalers (No Frills, Sobeys, Price Chopper, Metro,Longos...) is not always the smarter way to save money. Be wise when shopping and read the labels to see if you are really saving in the long run. The rule of thumb is to make sure the product has a long shelf life and you use it on a daily basis. Toothpaste, Toilet paper, Trash bags and canned goods are great products to buy in bulk.
Step6:
Buying meat products at the local meat market will save you a lot of money. You can get packages to fit your family eating habits. Plus their meat has little to no markup cost because it is sometime from the source.
Step7:
Buying bread at your local bakery will save you even more money. The best time to shop is at the end of the day because they are baking for the next day and you can sometime get baked goods at a even cheaper price.
Step8:
Look for sales of the week or promos on buying a group of products at one time. Start comparing the store brand to the big named brands to see which is more cost efficient for you budget. Sometimes those store brands are made by the big name companies and are almost the same as the name brand products.
Start with a Meal plan system in your household. This will allow you to have a pretty good idea of what is needed for the month. When you go to the grocery store you are only buying what items are needed to make the meals on the calendar for the month.
Step2:
Remember these stores are in business to make you spend money. So understand the layout of the grocery store. The goal is to have you make it around the whole store before leaving and hope you grab a few extra items along the way.
Step3:
Having grocery List allows you to have a written plan when entering the store. This will help you make better spending decisions. Now you have a written list of what needed and you will not be randomly placing items into you cart.
Step4:
Shop with coupons can save hundreds of dollars a month. You can find these coupons in your local newspapers and over the internet. You will be surprised how much local stores and companies spend in advertising just to get you into their stores. But remember they want you to spend more money to and buy those impulse items.
Step5:
Buying in bulk at Wal Mart and Costco and other wholesalers (No Frills, Sobeys, Price Chopper, Metro,Longos...) is not always the smarter way to save money. Be wise when shopping and read the labels to see if you are really saving in the long run. The rule of thumb is to make sure the product has a long shelf life and you use it on a daily basis. Toothpaste, Toilet paper, Trash bags and canned goods are great products to buy in bulk.
Step6:
Buying meat products at the local meat market will save you a lot of money. You can get packages to fit your family eating habits. Plus their meat has little to no markup cost because it is sometime from the source.
Step7:
Buying bread at your local bakery will save you even more money. The best time to shop is at the end of the day because they are baking for the next day and you can sometime get baked goods at a even cheaper price.
Step8:
Look for sales of the week or promos on buying a group of products at one time. Start comparing the store brand to the big named brands to see which is more cost efficient for you budget. Sometimes those store brands are made by the big name companies and are almost the same as the name brand products.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Why Diets Always Fail
Nutritionists agree that most diets aren't worth the paper they're printed on. They realize that the key to losing weight is adopting a sound, sustainable eating plan and then sticking with it, rather than opting for some wacko quick fix.
Problem #1: Diets don't last.
The problem with virtually all diets is the short-term mindset into which they feed. Most guys approach diets as an all-or-nothing proposition. Rather than making small, even incremental changes in lifestyle that can last a lifetime, diets encourage you to turn your life inside out for two weeks or so. Yet once those two weeks are over and you return to your old habits, guess what? Your body returns to its former state as well. If there's a rule of thumb to be had in this regard, it's that small changes last and big ones don't. Saying that you'll change everything you're doing wrong starting on Monday morning and straight-line it from there might sound impressive—and earn you some pats on the back—but it doesn't change your underlying behavior patterns. It's the slow, steady route that ultimately leads to success.
Problem #2: Diets make you hungry.
Diets typically treat fat loss as a function of nutrition only, when training is equally important. The diet world is about tearing down, and sports nutrition is about building up. You'll lose weight by creating a calorie deficit—burning more calories than you eat. You'll create that deficit, however, mostly through training and not through drastic dieting. The calories you burn in the weight room added to the metabolism boost you get from muscle growth will kick your body into fat-burning mode—without making you hungry.
Problem #3: Diets make you tired.
A chronic problem with diets is that so many of them are simply too low in calories. Because they don't provide enough energy for you to do your workouts and accomplish everything else you need to do in a day, they're a short-term solution at best. Even when weight-loss programs incorporate exercise—and, astonishingly, many don't—they typically ask you to eat like a gerbil and then train like a hamster by running or cycling endlessly in place. You may shed a few pounds in the short run, but you'll also forsake muscle, and the resulting metabolic downshift will soon take you back to square one. Whether it's being done on a treadmill, a stationary bike, or a squeaky metal cylinder, endless cardio performed on restricted calories is a road to nowhere, literally and figuratively.
This is especially true if you're following one of the ultra-low-carb diets that are so popular now. Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for physical activity, and decades of research has shown that low-carb diets don't adequately support strenuous physical activity or athletic performance for extended periods of time. In contrast, a diet moderate in carbs will supply enough energy for the average Joe to stay active and still burn fat. Endurance exercise requires more carbohydrates than strength training does, but in neither case will training be optimized without sufficient carbs.
Problem #4: Diets cannibalize your muscle.
Diets also tend to pay too little attention to supporting muscle mass during periods of caloric restriction. This is important for more than just aesthetic reasons. And when you lose muscle, your basal metabolic rate drops, and you don't burn as many calories.
Most guys try to burn off the fat first and then build the muscle. To do that, you have to lower your calories so far that you don't have the energy to train hard in the gym. You burn more muscle than fat, lowering your metabolic rate and setting the stage for weight gain.
Problem #1: Diets don't last.
The problem with virtually all diets is the short-term mindset into which they feed. Most guys approach diets as an all-or-nothing proposition. Rather than making small, even incremental changes in lifestyle that can last a lifetime, diets encourage you to turn your life inside out for two weeks or so. Yet once those two weeks are over and you return to your old habits, guess what? Your body returns to its former state as well. If there's a rule of thumb to be had in this regard, it's that small changes last and big ones don't. Saying that you'll change everything you're doing wrong starting on Monday morning and straight-line it from there might sound impressive—and earn you some pats on the back—but it doesn't change your underlying behavior patterns. It's the slow, steady route that ultimately leads to success.
Problem #2: Diets make you hungry.
Diets typically treat fat loss as a function of nutrition only, when training is equally important. The diet world is about tearing down, and sports nutrition is about building up. You'll lose weight by creating a calorie deficit—burning more calories than you eat. You'll create that deficit, however, mostly through training and not through drastic dieting. The calories you burn in the weight room added to the metabolism boost you get from muscle growth will kick your body into fat-burning mode—without making you hungry.
Problem #3: Diets make you tired.
A chronic problem with diets is that so many of them are simply too low in calories. Because they don't provide enough energy for you to do your workouts and accomplish everything else you need to do in a day, they're a short-term solution at best. Even when weight-loss programs incorporate exercise—and, astonishingly, many don't—they typically ask you to eat like a gerbil and then train like a hamster by running or cycling endlessly in place. You may shed a few pounds in the short run, but you'll also forsake muscle, and the resulting metabolic downshift will soon take you back to square one. Whether it's being done on a treadmill, a stationary bike, or a squeaky metal cylinder, endless cardio performed on restricted calories is a road to nowhere, literally and figuratively.
This is especially true if you're following one of the ultra-low-carb diets that are so popular now. Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for physical activity, and decades of research has shown that low-carb diets don't adequately support strenuous physical activity or athletic performance for extended periods of time. In contrast, a diet moderate in carbs will supply enough energy for the average Joe to stay active and still burn fat. Endurance exercise requires more carbohydrates than strength training does, but in neither case will training be optimized without sufficient carbs.
Problem #4: Diets cannibalize your muscle.
Diets also tend to pay too little attention to supporting muscle mass during periods of caloric restriction. This is important for more than just aesthetic reasons. And when you lose muscle, your basal metabolic rate drops, and you don't burn as many calories.
Most guys try to burn off the fat first and then build the muscle. To do that, you have to lower your calories so far that you don't have the energy to train hard in the gym. You burn more muscle than fat, lowering your metabolic rate and setting the stage for weight gain.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Philippines a Paradise for Snorkeling
With 7,107 island and legions of coral reefs, the Philippines is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Sample this # 34,000 sq km of coral reefs, some of which have grown since the Ice Age, over 100 reef slopes, over 800 classes of corals, over a thousand species of marine life, over 400 fish species and over 500 fish families – isn’t this the most populous and diverse aquatic ecosystem you have ever heard of?
Go Snorkeling in Philippines. Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, particularly at tropical resort destinations. The primary attraction of snorkeling is the opportunity to observe underwater life in a natural setting. And, no other place can be as fascinating as Philippines for snorkeling.
Baler alone holds at least five good snorkeling spots most of which are located in the southern portion. These reef areas are in the neighborhood of the Aniao Islets, Cemento Beach, Digisit Beach, Dimadimalangat Islet and the Lukso-Lukso Islets. One of the more challenging areas to snorkel is in Dicasalarin Bay. You will find various multi-colored corals and underwater life along the shore reef wall. The wall, very interestingly, is concave in shape due to the constant hitting of the waves. The official season for snorkeling is from March until June when the waves are the smallest.
The most popular snorkeling spots in Philippines are:
Moalboal in Cebu
Bacuit Bay and El Nido Northern Palawan
Puerto Galera in Mindoro
Miniloc Island in Northern Palawan
Taytay Bay in Northern Palawan
Go Snorkeling in Philippines. Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, particularly at tropical resort destinations. The primary attraction of snorkeling is the opportunity to observe underwater life in a natural setting. And, no other place can be as fascinating as Philippines for snorkeling.
Baler alone holds at least five good snorkeling spots most of which are located in the southern portion. These reef areas are in the neighborhood of the Aniao Islets, Cemento Beach, Digisit Beach, Dimadimalangat Islet and the Lukso-Lukso Islets. One of the more challenging areas to snorkel is in Dicasalarin Bay. You will find various multi-colored corals and underwater life along the shore reef wall. The wall, very interestingly, is concave in shape due to the constant hitting of the waves. The official season for snorkeling is from March until June when the waves are the smallest.
The most popular snorkeling spots in Philippines are:
Moalboal in Cebu
Bacuit Bay and El Nido Northern Palawan
Puerto Galera in Mindoro
Miniloc Island in Northern Palawan
Taytay Bay in Northern Palawan
Friday, March 6, 2009
Funny Story
Every night, Frank would go down to the liquor store, get a six pack, bring it home, and drink it while he watched TV. One night, as he finished his last beer, the doorbell rang. He stumbled to the door and found a six-foot cockroach standing there. The bug grabbed him by the collar and threw him across the room, then left.
The next night, after he finished his 4th beer, the doorbell rang. He walked slowly to the door and found the same six-foot cockroach standing there. The big bug punched him in the stomach, then left.
The next night, after he finished his 1st beer, the doorbell rang again. The same six-foot cockroach was standing there. This time he was kneed in the groin and hit behind the ear as he doubled over in pain. Then the big bug left.
The fourth night Frank didn't drink at all. The doorbell rang. The cockroach was standing there. The bug beat the snot out of Frank and left him in a heap on the living room floor.
The following day, Frank went to see his doctor. He explained events of the preceding four nights. "What can I do?" he pleaded. "Not much" the doctor replied. "There's just a nasty bug going around."
The next night, after he finished his 4th beer, the doorbell rang. He walked slowly to the door and found the same six-foot cockroach standing there. The big bug punched him in the stomach, then left.
The next night, after he finished his 1st beer, the doorbell rang again. The same six-foot cockroach was standing there. This time he was kneed in the groin and hit behind the ear as he doubled over in pain. Then the big bug left.
The fourth night Frank didn't drink at all. The doorbell rang. The cockroach was standing there. The bug beat the snot out of Frank and left him in a heap on the living room floor.
The following day, Frank went to see his doctor. He explained events of the preceding four nights. "What can I do?" he pleaded. "Not much" the doctor replied. "There's just a nasty bug going around."
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Special techniques
Adding yoghurt: this procedure has to be done carefully or the yoghurt will separate. Take the pan from the heat and add the yoghurt a spoonful at a time, stirring well between each addition. Then return the pan to the heat, stirring all the time, until the sauce bubbles.
Browning the onions: the more caramel - colored the onions, the richer the paste. with sweet taste (frying onions relases theri sugars). Don't overly crisp them as the resultant paste can be bitter.
Fried onion paste is a key ingredient in many curries from northern regions of India and Pakistan. It provides a smooth sweet, dark brown paste that mellows out the harsh flavors of ginger and garlic.
Curry base building - the most of all the liquids is water. Many of legume curries use water to cook the grains, with a simple seasoning of spices to give flavor to the water; Acidic liquids like tomato sauces, pastes, and purees provide valuable moisture but also tartness and color. Dairy products like yogurt, buttermilk, cream, half and half and reduced milk solids not only provide a sauce base but also lower the hot tastes in curries.
Some curries are meant to be thin-bodied, and some are naturally thick because of the inclusion of a nut, vegetable, fruit or legume puree. Then there are a few that need to bulk up, and for that we look to flours made form chickpeas, rice and wheat. Some curries employ cornstarch, and other potatoes as a natural built -in thickener.
Cooking the spice paste until the oil runs clear
The point of this is to allow the spices to absorb as much oil as they can, and thus to give out their full flavor. When the spices are saturated, the excess oil runs out of them (you can drain it off, if you like), and you can proceed to the next step in the recipe.
Colorings: the use of subtle coloring in Indian cooking is commonplace. Saffron and turmeric are often used. However the latter imparts a particular and sometimes overwhelming, flavor and the former is expensive, so a popular alternative is to make up a weak solution of orange or yellow food coloring.
Dry roasting: When all the spices for a recipe require dry roasting, they can be roasted together for convenience.
Many spices are dry roasted for a few seconds to heighten their flavors. This is best achieved by gently heating either a non-stick or heavy-based frying pan. Add the spices and over a very gentle heat move the spices around the surface of the pan. Because of their pungency, dry roast chilies in a covered pan.
Dropping spices into hot oil - this is often either the first or the last step in an Indian recipe. The oil is heated until very hot and then whole spices or dried chilies are dropped into it. Within a few second they pop or expand and their concentrated flavor is released.
Grinding spices: a coffee grinder is ideal for making a spice paste. You can also use a blender or a pestle and mortar. Cuisinart Grind Central Coffee Grinder DCG-12BC,
Tempering (Baghar, Phoran, Darka): the terms given to the process in which a seasoning, combined with oil or ghee, is poured over a dish before it is served. The purpose of this is to either add a flavor without incorporating it in the cooking process or to increase the amount of oil.
Thickening sauces: flour is not used as a thickening in Indian cookery. Instead, spice pastes, yoghurt, tomatoes and coconut are all use to thicken and add their own individual flavors.
Fish: the people of Bangladesh and the Bengalis use mustard oil to cook the fish. The fish are frequently cooked with skin, bones and head intact, giving the dish full benefit of all the nutritional value, and this extracts the most flavor from the fish, too. If you use frozen fish, cut or slice the fish before it is completely thawed so that the pieces retain their shape during preparation. Chili powder is used in these recipes. As it can vary in strength use it cautiously.
Instead of frying the fish it can be arranged in a baking tray, brushed with oil and either placed under a preheated grill or baked in a preheated oven 180° C (350° F).
Pealing tomatoes: You can use tinned tomatoes to save time, and in winter, but fresh ripe tomatoes are the best. Drop them into a bowl of boiling water and leave for 2 minutes until a split appears in the skin. Drain and refresh in cold water. Then remove the skin.
Rice: whichever type of rice you choose to cook with, remember that it increases 2-3 times in volume when cooked. Before cooking the rice rinse it in several changes of warm water until the water is clear.
Meat: As a general rule, all the tougher cuts of meat are cooked by a moist method such as stewing, braising, boiling or currying. Tender meat such as fillet, rump, loin and shoulder are good for dry heat cooking e.g. roasting, frying and grilling. For curries choose middle neck, shoulder, leg and scrap end, and it is common for the bones to be included, too.
Browning the onions: the more caramel - colored the onions, the richer the paste. with sweet taste (frying onions relases theri sugars). Don't overly crisp them as the resultant paste can be bitter.
Fried onion paste is a key ingredient in many curries from northern regions of India and Pakistan. It provides a smooth sweet, dark brown paste that mellows out the harsh flavors of ginger and garlic.
Curry base building - the most of all the liquids is water. Many of legume curries use water to cook the grains, with a simple seasoning of spices to give flavor to the water; Acidic liquids like tomato sauces, pastes, and purees provide valuable moisture but also tartness and color. Dairy products like yogurt, buttermilk, cream, half and half and reduced milk solids not only provide a sauce base but also lower the hot tastes in curries.
Some curries are meant to be thin-bodied, and some are naturally thick because of the inclusion of a nut, vegetable, fruit or legume puree. Then there are a few that need to bulk up, and for that we look to flours made form chickpeas, rice and wheat. Some curries employ cornstarch, and other potatoes as a natural built -in thickener.
Cooking the spice paste until the oil runs clear
The point of this is to allow the spices to absorb as much oil as they can, and thus to give out their full flavor. When the spices are saturated, the excess oil runs out of them (you can drain it off, if you like), and you can proceed to the next step in the recipe.
Colorings: the use of subtle coloring in Indian cooking is commonplace. Saffron and turmeric are often used. However the latter imparts a particular and sometimes overwhelming, flavor and the former is expensive, so a popular alternative is to make up a weak solution of orange or yellow food coloring.
Dry roasting: When all the spices for a recipe require dry roasting, they can be roasted together for convenience.
Many spices are dry roasted for a few seconds to heighten their flavors. This is best achieved by gently heating either a non-stick or heavy-based frying pan. Add the spices and over a very gentle heat move the spices around the surface of the pan. Because of their pungency, dry roast chilies in a covered pan.
Dropping spices into hot oil - this is often either the first or the last step in an Indian recipe. The oil is heated until very hot and then whole spices or dried chilies are dropped into it. Within a few second they pop or expand and their concentrated flavor is released.
Grinding spices: a coffee grinder is ideal for making a spice paste. You can also use a blender or a pestle and mortar. Cuisinart Grind Central Coffee Grinder DCG-12BC,
Tempering (Baghar, Phoran, Darka): the terms given to the process in which a seasoning, combined with oil or ghee, is poured over a dish before it is served. The purpose of this is to either add a flavor without incorporating it in the cooking process or to increase the amount of oil.
Thickening sauces: flour is not used as a thickening in Indian cookery. Instead, spice pastes, yoghurt, tomatoes and coconut are all use to thicken and add their own individual flavors.
Fish: the people of Bangladesh and the Bengalis use mustard oil to cook the fish. The fish are frequently cooked with skin, bones and head intact, giving the dish full benefit of all the nutritional value, and this extracts the most flavor from the fish, too. If you use frozen fish, cut or slice the fish before it is completely thawed so that the pieces retain their shape during preparation. Chili powder is used in these recipes. As it can vary in strength use it cautiously.
Instead of frying the fish it can be arranged in a baking tray, brushed with oil and either placed under a preheated grill or baked in a preheated oven 180° C (350° F).
Pealing tomatoes: You can use tinned tomatoes to save time, and in winter, but fresh ripe tomatoes are the best. Drop them into a bowl of boiling water and leave for 2 minutes until a split appears in the skin. Drain and refresh in cold water. Then remove the skin.
Rice: whichever type of rice you choose to cook with, remember that it increases 2-3 times in volume when cooked. Before cooking the rice rinse it in several changes of warm water until the water is clear.
Meat: As a general rule, all the tougher cuts of meat are cooked by a moist method such as stewing, braising, boiling or currying. Tender meat such as fillet, rump, loin and shoulder are good for dry heat cooking e.g. roasting, frying and grilling. For curries choose middle neck, shoulder, leg and scrap end, and it is common for the bones to be included, too.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Dubai Projects
Palm Island. Three artificial islands in the shape of palm trees will shelter nearly 500 apartments, 2 000 villas, 25 hotels and 200 shops of luxury. Palm Jumeirah, the most advanced, will be completed as of the end of 2005. Hundred twenty-five kilometers of coast additional will be thus created.
The World. With broad of Dubaï, nearly 300 artificial islands, seen sky will form a planisphere. If you want to acquire one of these islands, it will cost some to you between 6,2 to 36,7 million dollars. Work of fill, already begun, should be completed at the end of 2005.
Dubai Waterfront. Advancing on water of the Gulf, this whole of islands in the shape of crescent will extend on 81 square kilometres. Becoming the greatest sea front in the world, it détrône thus the island from Manhattan in New York.
Old Town. It is the final district of the building site located at the foot of the tower Burj Dubai. This great real complex will include the highest tower of the world, the greatest shopping centre of the world as well as a gigantic residential district.
Hydropolis. Entirely assembled in Germany, this underwater hotel will be immersed with broad of Dubai at the end of 2006. It will comprise 220 continuations whose panoramic windows will give on sea-beds. The price of a room for the night would rise with 500 dollars.
Burj Dubai. This phenomenal tower from which construction began last January and will end in 2008 should reach the 800 meters height. The building, built in three parts around a central column, finishes in spiral. It will count 160 stages.
Madinat Al Arab. Here the representation of the one of the districts of the future greater sea front in the world, Dubai Waterfront. This sight accounts for the architectural ambition and the spectacular development of real constructions with Dubaï.
Dubai Marina. new city, of a total cost of 10 billion dollars, will be built on a way of artificial navigation of 4,5 km. It will be able to lodge 120 000 people. Three principal towers will be set up and will bear the name of Arab perfumes.
Dubai Sports City. This immense sporting complex of 7.5 km² will accomodate sports such as the cricket, the golf, Rugby, football, the sports of ground, track, and interior (tennis shoe, handball, volley ball). Hotels, residences and villas are also envisaged.
Golden Dome. With its 455 m height and its 2,2 million m² of total surface, it will be one of bulkiest and higher buildings of the world. It will shelter 500 000 m² offices, commercial spaces like 3 000 residential apartments.
Dubailand Ski Dome. This ski resort indoor, will comprise inter alia a directional ski piste and tracks of snowboard (with 6 000 tons of true snow). "Pinguinarium", aquariums four seasons, spa cold and hot... are also envisaged with the program.
Space Science World. Space is one of the subjects exploited in the immense park with topics of Dubailand which has the ambition to become the largest tourist park and of attractions in the world.
The World. With broad of Dubaï, nearly 300 artificial islands, seen sky will form a planisphere. If you want to acquire one of these islands, it will cost some to you between 6,2 to 36,7 million dollars. Work of fill, already begun, should be completed at the end of 2005.
Dubai Waterfront. Advancing on water of the Gulf, this whole of islands in the shape of crescent will extend on 81 square kilometres. Becoming the greatest sea front in the world, it détrône thus the island from Manhattan in New York.
Old Town. It is the final district of the building site located at the foot of the tower Burj Dubai. This great real complex will include the highest tower of the world, the greatest shopping centre of the world as well as a gigantic residential district.
Hydropolis. Entirely assembled in Germany, this underwater hotel will be immersed with broad of Dubai at the end of 2006. It will comprise 220 continuations whose panoramic windows will give on sea-beds. The price of a room for the night would rise with 500 dollars.
Burj Dubai. This phenomenal tower from which construction began last January and will end in 2008 should reach the 800 meters height. The building, built in three parts around a central column, finishes in spiral. It will count 160 stages.
Madinat Al Arab. Here the representation of the one of the districts of the future greater sea front in the world, Dubai Waterfront. This sight accounts for the architectural ambition and the spectacular development of real constructions with Dubaï.
Dubai Marina. new city, of a total cost of 10 billion dollars, will be built on a way of artificial navigation of 4,5 km. It will be able to lodge 120 000 people. Three principal towers will be set up and will bear the name of Arab perfumes.
Dubai Sports City. This immense sporting complex of 7.5 km² will accomodate sports such as the cricket, the golf, Rugby, football, the sports of ground, track, and interior (tennis shoe, handball, volley ball). Hotels, residences and villas are also envisaged.
Golden Dome. With its 455 m height and its 2,2 million m² of total surface, it will be one of bulkiest and higher buildings of the world. It will shelter 500 000 m² offices, commercial spaces like 3 000 residential apartments.
Dubailand Ski Dome. This ski resort indoor, will comprise inter alia a directional ski piste and tracks of snowboard (with 6 000 tons of true snow). "Pinguinarium", aquariums four seasons, spa cold and hot... are also envisaged with the program.
Space Science World. Space is one of the subjects exploited in the immense park with topics of Dubailand which has the ambition to become the largest tourist park and of attractions in the world.
The New 7 Wonders of the World
The list consists of the Taj Mahal in India, Petra in Jordan, Colosseum in the Italian city of Rome, Machu Picchu in Perú, Great Wall of China, Chichen Itza in Mexico and Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
How to Keep Line-Dried Clothes from Getting Stiff
Like the idea of line drying clothes, but hate how stiff everything feels afterwards? Then, check out these five tricks for perfect, crunch-free clothes:
1. Add a cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle to help dissolve the laundry detergent.
2. Cut the amount of detergent that you use. Half the recommended amount is usually plenty.
3. Run your clothes in the dryer for 10 minutes, before putting them out on the line.
4. Shake out your clothes before hanging them.
5. Hang your clothes out on a windy day.
1. Add a cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle to help dissolve the laundry detergent.
2. Cut the amount of detergent that you use. Half the recommended amount is usually plenty.
3. Run your clothes in the dryer for 10 minutes, before putting them out on the line.
4. Shake out your clothes before hanging them.
5. Hang your clothes out on a windy day.
Why You Should Add Vinegar to Your Wash Loads
We've all seen the commercials for laundry boosters that promise to whiten our whites and remove our toughest stains, but guess what? You don't need them.
For a frugal laundry booster (and we're talking pennies a load frugal), just add a cup of white vinegar to your washer's rinse cycle. It's one solution that's as simple as it is effective.
The Benefits of a Vinegar Laundry Booster
Vinegar Will:
* whiten your whites
* brighten your colors
* eliminate static-cling
* remove lint
* prevent the dye in new clothing from running
* kill any bacteria present in your laundry
* remove soap residue from fabric and your machine
* soften your laundry, without the use of fabric softeners
* neutralize any odors
Why This Works
The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a solvent and disinfectant – just what you need to fight your toughest laundry challenges.
Warnings
As with any cleaner, you should avoid all contact with the eyes and prolonged contact with the skin
For a frugal laundry booster (and we're talking pennies a load frugal), just add a cup of white vinegar to your washer's rinse cycle. It's one solution that's as simple as it is effective.
The Benefits of a Vinegar Laundry Booster
Vinegar Will:
* whiten your whites
* brighten your colors
* eliminate static-cling
* remove lint
* prevent the dye in new clothing from running
* kill any bacteria present in your laundry
* remove soap residue from fabric and your machine
* soften your laundry, without the use of fabric softeners
* neutralize any odors
Why This Works
The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a solvent and disinfectant – just what you need to fight your toughest laundry challenges.
Warnings
As with any cleaner, you should avoid all contact with the eyes and prolonged contact with the skin
Make Your Own Detergent
Learn how to make your own laundry detergent, and you'll have a bit more change to empty out of your pockets on wash day.
Here's How:
1. Mix together two parts Borax, two parts Washing Soda and one part grated Fels-Naptha soap to create your own laundry detergent (You can make as much or as little as you'd like).
2. Use up to three level tablespoons per wash load.
3. Store the rest in a lidded container, out of the reach of children and pets.
Tips:
1. Be sure to label your detergent container, so others will know what's inside. Include a list of the ingredients as an added safety measure.
2. Borax sells under the name 20 Mule Team, and can be found on the laundry aisle. You should be able to find Washing Soda and Fels-Naptha soap there too.
3. Having trouble locating Fels-Naptha soap on the laundry aisle? Check to see if it's in with the bar soap.
4. If the grocery store or discount store that you shop at doesn't stock these ingredients, try an international grocery store.
5. Zote, Ivory or castile soap can be used in place of Fels-Naptha.
What You Need:
* Borax
* Washing Soda
* Fels Naptha Soap
Here's How:
1. Mix together two parts Borax, two parts Washing Soda and one part grated Fels-Naptha soap to create your own laundry detergent (You can make as much or as little as you'd like).
2. Use up to three level tablespoons per wash load.
3. Store the rest in a lidded container, out of the reach of children and pets.
Tips:
1. Be sure to label your detergent container, so others will know what's inside. Include a list of the ingredients as an added safety measure.
2. Borax sells under the name 20 Mule Team, and can be found on the laundry aisle. You should be able to find Washing Soda and Fels-Naptha soap there too.
3. Having trouble locating Fels-Naptha soap on the laundry aisle? Check to see if it's in with the bar soap.
4. If the grocery store or discount store that you shop at doesn't stock these ingredients, try an international grocery store.
5. Zote, Ivory or castile soap can be used in place of Fels-Naptha.
What You Need:
* Borax
* Washing Soda
* Fels Naptha Soap
All-natural Bleach
Make Your Own Bleach Alternative
Chlorine bleach is tough on your clothes, the environment and your wallet, so replace that bulky jug with something better: a lemon. The only thing it's tough on is dirt.
To Whiten Clothes
Add a cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle to boost the whitening action of your laundry detergent.
To Remove Stains from Clothing
Pour lemon juice over the stain. Then, rub the area with salt; and place the garment out in the sun for several hours. Wash as usual.
To Remove Stains from Countertops and Other Hard Surfaces
Create a paste of lemon juice and baking soda. Then, apply the mixture to the stain, and allow it to sit for several hours. Wipe clean, and the stain should be gone.
Note: Some stains may require a second treatment.
To Sanitize
Rub half of a lemon over the surface that needs to be sanitized, or apply lemon juice straight from the bottle. Then, rinse with water.
Why This Works
The citric acid in lemons acts as a natural stain remover, bleach and sanitizer.
Benefits of Using Lemon as a Bleach:
* chlorine-free
* gentle on clothes and surfaces
* natural sanitizer
* effective whitener/ stain remover
* fume-free
* kid and pet-safe
* inexpensive
Tips and Warnings:
1) Do not clean marble surfaces with lemon. This can lead to etching.
2) Use a paste of lemon juice and baking soda to remove stains from plastic storage containers.
Chlorine bleach is tough on your clothes, the environment and your wallet, so replace that bulky jug with something better: a lemon. The only thing it's tough on is dirt.
To Whiten Clothes
Add a cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle to boost the whitening action of your laundry detergent.
To Remove Stains from Clothing
Pour lemon juice over the stain. Then, rub the area with salt; and place the garment out in the sun for several hours. Wash as usual.
To Remove Stains from Countertops and Other Hard Surfaces
Create a paste of lemon juice and baking soda. Then, apply the mixture to the stain, and allow it to sit for several hours. Wipe clean, and the stain should be gone.
Note: Some stains may require a second treatment.
To Sanitize
Rub half of a lemon over the surface that needs to be sanitized, or apply lemon juice straight from the bottle. Then, rinse with water.
Why This Works
The citric acid in lemons acts as a natural stain remover, bleach and sanitizer.
Benefits of Using Lemon as a Bleach:
* chlorine-free
* gentle on clothes and surfaces
* natural sanitizer
* effective whitener/ stain remover
* fume-free
* kid and pet-safe
* inexpensive
Tips and Warnings:
1) Do not clean marble surfaces with lemon. This can lead to etching.
2) Use a paste of lemon juice and baking soda to remove stains from plastic storage containers.
Vinegar as Stain Remover
How to Remove Laundry Stains with Vinegar
Vinegar makes stain removal a snap. Learn how to treat 16 of your toughest laundry stains with white vinegar and a bit of elbow grease.
1. Remove Tomato Stains
Saturate the stain with vinegar. Allow it to soak in. Then, wash.
2. Remove Sugar-Based Stains
Saturate the stain with vinegar. Allow it to soak in. Then, wash.
3. Remove Coffee/ Tea Stains
Flush the area with vinegar to remove the stain. Rinse and repeat as needed. Then, wash as usual.
4. Remove Wine Stains
Saturate the stain in vinegar, and allow to it stand for several minutes. Then, rinse with water, and repeat the process, if needed. Wash immediately after.
5. Remove Mustard Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain, and allow it to soak in. Then, spot treat with a bit of laundry detergent, and wash.
6. Remove Grease
Soak the stain in undiluted white vinegar. Then, wash as usual.
7. Remove Sweat Stains
Pour vinegar over the sweat stain. Then rub coarse salt into the stain (table salt will work if it's all you have). Place the garment out in the sun to dry. Then, wash.
8. Remove Grass Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain with a sponge, and lightly dab to lift. If the stain persists, make a paste of vinegar and baking soda, and brush it into the stain with an old toothbrush. Then, wash as usual.
9. Remove Ink Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain. Then, rub with a paste made of vinegar and baking soda. Let dry. Then, wash.
10. Remove Deodorant Stains
Rub vinegar into the stain until it disappears. Then, launder as usual.
11. Remove Blood Stains
Fast action is the cure for bloodstains. Pour vinegar over the stain, and allow it to soak for fifteen minutes. Then, rinse with cool water, and repeat if necessary. Wash immediately after.
12. Remove Set-In Stains
Saturate the stain in vinegar. Then, rub with a paste made of vinegar and baking soda. If the stain persists, add a couple tablespoons each of vinegar and laundry detergent to a bucket of water, and soak over night. Rinse, and wash.
13. Remove Crayon
Rub vinegar into the crayon stain with a brush (an old toothbrush works great). Then, toss in the wash.
14. Remove Vomit Stains
Rinse the garment in cool water to remove as much of the vomit as possible. Then, soak the stain in vinegar, and wash. If stain or odor persists, repeat the process.
15. Remove Rust
Pour vinegar over the rust stain. Then rub coarse salt into the stain (table salt will work if it's all you have). Place the garment out in the sun to dry. Then, wash.
16. Remove Iron Scorch Marks
Soak a rag in vinegar, and use it to dab at the scorched area. Then, blot the stain with a clean rag, and it should lift the stain. Note: It may take more than one application to fully remove the scorch mark.
Vinegar makes stain removal a snap. Learn how to treat 16 of your toughest laundry stains with white vinegar and a bit of elbow grease.
1. Remove Tomato Stains
Saturate the stain with vinegar. Allow it to soak in. Then, wash.
2. Remove Sugar-Based Stains
Saturate the stain with vinegar. Allow it to soak in. Then, wash.
3. Remove Coffee/ Tea Stains
Flush the area with vinegar to remove the stain. Rinse and repeat as needed. Then, wash as usual.
4. Remove Wine Stains
Saturate the stain in vinegar, and allow to it stand for several minutes. Then, rinse with water, and repeat the process, if needed. Wash immediately after.
5. Remove Mustard Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain, and allow it to soak in. Then, spot treat with a bit of laundry detergent, and wash.
6. Remove Grease
Soak the stain in undiluted white vinegar. Then, wash as usual.
7. Remove Sweat Stains
Pour vinegar over the sweat stain. Then rub coarse salt into the stain (table salt will work if it's all you have). Place the garment out in the sun to dry. Then, wash.
8. Remove Grass Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain with a sponge, and lightly dab to lift. If the stain persists, make a paste of vinegar and baking soda, and brush it into the stain with an old toothbrush. Then, wash as usual.
9. Remove Ink Stains
Apply vinegar to the stain. Then, rub with a paste made of vinegar and baking soda. Let dry. Then, wash.
10. Remove Deodorant Stains
Rub vinegar into the stain until it disappears. Then, launder as usual.
11. Remove Blood Stains
Fast action is the cure for bloodstains. Pour vinegar over the stain, and allow it to soak for fifteen minutes. Then, rinse with cool water, and repeat if necessary. Wash immediately after.
12. Remove Set-In Stains
Saturate the stain in vinegar. Then, rub with a paste made of vinegar and baking soda. If the stain persists, add a couple tablespoons each of vinegar and laundry detergent to a bucket of water, and soak over night. Rinse, and wash.
13. Remove Crayon
Rub vinegar into the crayon stain with a brush (an old toothbrush works great). Then, toss in the wash.
14. Remove Vomit Stains
Rinse the garment in cool water to remove as much of the vomit as possible. Then, soak the stain in vinegar, and wash. If stain or odor persists, repeat the process.
15. Remove Rust
Pour vinegar over the rust stain. Then rub coarse salt into the stain (table salt will work if it's all you have). Place the garment out in the sun to dry. Then, wash.
16. Remove Iron Scorch Marks
Soak a rag in vinegar, and use it to dab at the scorched area. Then, blot the stain with a clean rag, and it should lift the stain. Note: It may take more than one application to fully remove the scorch mark.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
What's YOUR scent?
What perfume or cologne do you normally wear?
I know some of you don't wear scent because you are allergic but most of you do. I am curious as to what scent you wear if you use it.
I dearly LOVE to smell good and wear perfume daily.
My favorite scent to wear are Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Armani, Burberry, Gucci Pour Homme, The One by Dolce and Gabbana, Allure Homme by Chanel, Cool Water by Davidoff, Nautica Voyage by Nautica, EMPORIO ARMANI DIAMONDS by Giorgio Armani , Bvlgari By Bvlgari For Men, Acqua Di Gio By Giorgio Armani For Men, L'eau D'issey By Issey Miyake For Men, Curve By Liz Claiborne For Men, 212 By Carolina Herrera For Men, Drakkar Noir By Guy Laroche For Men, Fierce By Abercrombie & Fitch Cologne Spray for Men, Ck One By Calvin Klein For Men and Women, Eternity By Calvin Klein For Men, 33Chrome By Azzaro For Men, Design By Paul Sebastian For Men, Angel Amen FOR MEN by Thierry Mugler, Versace Man By Gianni Versace For Men, Kenneth Cole Reaction by Kenneth Cole for Men.
I know some of you don't wear scent because you are allergic but most of you do. I am curious as to what scent you wear if you use it.
I dearly LOVE to smell good and wear perfume daily.
My favorite scent to wear are Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Armani, Burberry, Gucci Pour Homme, The One by Dolce and Gabbana, Allure Homme by Chanel, Cool Water by Davidoff, Nautica Voyage by Nautica, EMPORIO ARMANI DIAMONDS by Giorgio Armani , Bvlgari By Bvlgari For Men, Acqua Di Gio By Giorgio Armani For Men, L'eau D'issey By Issey Miyake For Men, Curve By Liz Claiborne For Men, 212 By Carolina Herrera For Men, Drakkar Noir By Guy Laroche For Men, Fierce By Abercrombie & Fitch Cologne Spray for Men, Ck One By Calvin Klein For Men and Women, Eternity By Calvin Klein For Men, 33Chrome By Azzaro For Men, Design By Paul Sebastian For Men, Angel Amen FOR MEN by Thierry Mugler, Versace Man By Gianni Versace For Men, Kenneth Cole Reaction by Kenneth Cole for Men.
What Love Is
Life without love is life without life itself. It is just lived at the minimum somehow lived. In fact a drag it is boredom, meaninglessness, it is simply waiting for nothing to happen.
The man without love is born dead lives dead, dies dead it is a long process of death but love brings a transformation. Love is like a spring suddenly hidden sources start flowing for the first time one feels the thrill of existence the adventure, the immense call of the unknown and a tremendous desire to plunge into the ocean of existence that's exactly what love is...
The man without love is born dead lives dead, dies dead it is a long process of death but love brings a transformation. Love is like a spring suddenly hidden sources start flowing for the first time one feels the thrill of existence the adventure, the immense call of the unknown and a tremendous desire to plunge into the ocean of existence that's exactly what love is...
Desire For The Other
Your desire for the other, your longing that without the other, you will never be complete, is absolutely true.
Man and woman are not just one... man just man, woman just woman... no. They are both together: man is half man and half woman, and the same is true about women. Unless the man and the woman inside you become one whole, you will remain discontented, with something always missing.
Meanwhile, before you meet your inner woman or man, find a man or a woman outside. You will learn much. This is not going to be the end; all men are experimental for women and all women are experimental for men. Experimenting with a few relationships, you will be mature enough to recognize your own woman or your own man.
Man and woman are not just one... man just man, woman just woman... no. They are both together: man is half man and half woman, and the same is true about women. Unless the man and the woman inside you become one whole, you will remain discontented, with something always missing.
Meanwhile, before you meet your inner woman or man, find a man or a woman outside. You will learn much. This is not going to be the end; all men are experimental for women and all women are experimental for men. Experimenting with a few relationships, you will be mature enough to recognize your own woman or your own man.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
My Date With Another Woman - A very touching story
After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take
another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said I
love you but I know this other woman loves you and
would love to spend some time with you.
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my
MOTHER, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the
demands of my work and my three children had made it
possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner
and a movie.
"What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is
the type of woman who suspects that a late night call
or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to be with you," I
responded. "Just the two of us."
She thought about it for a moment, and then said, "I
would like that very much."
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up
I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I
noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our
date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had
curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had
worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an
angel's.
"I told my friends that I was going to go out with my
son, and they were impressed, "she said, as she got
into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our
meeting". We went to a restaurant that, although not
elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my
arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down,
I had to read the menu. Half way through
the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting
there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you
were small," she said.
"Then it's time that you relax and let me return the
favor," I responded.
During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation -
nothing extraordinary, but catching up on recent
events of each other's life. We talked so much that we
missed the movie.
As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go
out with you again, but only if you let me invite
you." I agreed.
"How was your dinner date?" asked my wife when I got
home. "Very nice. Much more so than I could have
imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart
attack. It happened so suddenly that I did to not get to do
anything for her.
Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy
of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and
I had dined.
An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I
wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I
paid for two plates - one for you and the other for
your wife. You will never know what that night meant
for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying
in time: "I LOVE YOU!" and to give our loved ones the
time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more
important than God and your family. Give them the
time they deserve, because these things cannot be put
off till "some other time."
another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said I
love you but I know this other woman loves you and
would love to spend some time with you.
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my
MOTHER, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the
demands of my work and my three children had made it
possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner
and a movie.
"What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is
the type of woman who suspects that a late night call
or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to be with you," I
responded. "Just the two of us."
She thought about it for a moment, and then said, "I
would like that very much."
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up
I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I
noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our
date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had
curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had
worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an
angel's.
"I told my friends that I was going to go out with my
son, and they were impressed, "she said, as she got
into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our
meeting". We went to a restaurant that, although not
elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my
arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down,
I had to read the menu. Half way through
the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting
there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you
were small," she said.
"Then it's time that you relax and let me return the
favor," I responded.
During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation -
nothing extraordinary, but catching up on recent
events of each other's life. We talked so much that we
missed the movie.
As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go
out with you again, but only if you let me invite
you." I agreed.
"How was your dinner date?" asked my wife when I got
home. "Very nice. Much more so than I could have
imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart
attack. It happened so suddenly that I did to not get to do
anything for her.
Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy
of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and
I had dined.
An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I
wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I
paid for two plates - one for you and the other for
your wife. You will never know what that night meant
for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying
in time: "I LOVE YOU!" and to give our loved ones the
time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more
important than God and your family. Give them the
time they deserve, because these things cannot be put
off till "some other time."
European Mistletoe The Cancer Fighting Herb
European mistletoe (Viscum album L.) also known as simply "mistletoe" is a semi parasitic plant that grows on several types of trees in temperate regions worldwide. This article refers to European mistletoe not American mistletoe, the decorative holiday plant often seen in the United States.
The leafy shoots and berries of mistletoe are used to make extracts that can be taken by mouth and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat seizures, headaches, and other conditions. In Europe, mistletoe is used mainly as a treatment for cancer and extracts are prescr i ption drugs that are given by injection. In the United States, mistletoe by injection is available only in clinical trials.
Laboratory studies have found that mistletoe kills cancer cells and stimulates the immune system and has been incorporated into the care of cancer patients in Europe for over 80 years. The use of mistletoe to treat cancer has been studied in Europe in more than 30 clinical trials and mistletoe therapy is thought to be the most commonly used complementary cancer treatment in Europe today. Improvements in survival and quality of life have been reported but some doubts have been raised about the findings due mainly to the studies having a small number of participants or not having a control group.
In the United States, because mistletoe has not yet been proven to be a safe and effective cancer treatment, it is advised that it should not be used outside of clinical trials. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) which is part of the National Institutes of Health is sponsoring a clinical trial of mistletoe, given in combination with the drug gemcitabine, for cancer. The study will look at toxicity, safety, and immune system effects of mistletoe extract when combined with this chemotherapy drug.
Raw, unprocessed mistletoe is poisonous. Consuming raw, unprocessed European or American mistletoe can cause seizures, vomiting, a slowing of the heart rate, and even death. American mistletoe is unsafe for medicinal use.
In countries where commercial mistletoe is available by injection, such as Germany, those extracts are considered to be generally safe when used according to product directions and under the supervision of a health care provider. Injected mistletoe extract may cause itching or redness in the area of the injection. Less commonly, side effects may include more extensive skin reactions, low-grade fevers, or flu-like symptoms.
It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including mistletoe.
The leafy shoots and berries of mistletoe are used to make extracts that can be taken by mouth and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat seizures, headaches, and other conditions. In Europe, mistletoe is used mainly as a treatment for cancer and extracts are prescr i ption drugs that are given by injection. In the United States, mistletoe by injection is available only in clinical trials.
Laboratory studies have found that mistletoe kills cancer cells and stimulates the immune system and has been incorporated into the care of cancer patients in Europe for over 80 years. The use of mistletoe to treat cancer has been studied in Europe in more than 30 clinical trials and mistletoe therapy is thought to be the most commonly used complementary cancer treatment in Europe today. Improvements in survival and quality of life have been reported but some doubts have been raised about the findings due mainly to the studies having a small number of participants or not having a control group.
In the United States, because mistletoe has not yet been proven to be a safe and effective cancer treatment, it is advised that it should not be used outside of clinical trials. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) which is part of the National Institutes of Health is sponsoring a clinical trial of mistletoe, given in combination with the drug gemcitabine, for cancer. The study will look at toxicity, safety, and immune system effects of mistletoe extract when combined with this chemotherapy drug.
Raw, unprocessed mistletoe is poisonous. Consuming raw, unprocessed European or American mistletoe can cause seizures, vomiting, a slowing of the heart rate, and even death. American mistletoe is unsafe for medicinal use.
In countries where commercial mistletoe is available by injection, such as Germany, those extracts are considered to be generally safe when used according to product directions and under the supervision of a health care provider. Injected mistletoe extract may cause itching or redness in the area of the injection. Less commonly, side effects may include more extensive skin reactions, low-grade fevers, or flu-like symptoms.
It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including mistletoe.
Scary Sancks
These treats may seem harmless, but they could contain carcinogens.
1. Microwave popcorn. The butter flavor in microwave popcorn comes from a chemical called diacetyl, which may cause serious lung and respiratory problems if an individual is around too much of it. Although most people who have gotten sick due to diacetyl exposure have worked in popcorn factories, one man developed a lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans after eating two bags of microwave popcorn a day. After public outcries and even pressure from members of Congress, most companies that manufacture microwave popcorn have stopped using diacetyl in the butter flavoring.
2. French fries. When fried, potatoes release a chemical called acrylamide, which is known to cause cancer in lab animals and is considered to be a probable human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In addition to being found in French fries, acrylamide is often in other starchy foods like potato chips, cereal, and bread. Officials in California even considered putting warning labels on foods that may contain acrylamide. However, so far, the most conclusive links between cancer and acrylamide have only been found in rats, not in humans.
1. Microwave popcorn. The butter flavor in microwave popcorn comes from a chemical called diacetyl, which may cause serious lung and respiratory problems if an individual is around too much of it. Although most people who have gotten sick due to diacetyl exposure have worked in popcorn factories, one man developed a lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans after eating two bags of microwave popcorn a day. After public outcries and even pressure from members of Congress, most companies that manufacture microwave popcorn have stopped using diacetyl in the butter flavoring.
2. French fries. When fried, potatoes release a chemical called acrylamide, which is known to cause cancer in lab animals and is considered to be a probable human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In addition to being found in French fries, acrylamide is often in other starchy foods like potato chips, cereal, and bread. Officials in California even considered putting warning labels on foods that may contain acrylamide. However, so far, the most conclusive links between cancer and acrylamide have only been found in rats, not in humans.
Life Insurance Plan as Fixed Deposit
Not all life insurance plans give fixed benefits, especially if it’s a ULIP. Still, there are life insurance policy which work out as fixed deposits of bank. These come under the category of life insurance plans with fixed or guaranteed plans. Often these are known as Endowment plans.
In this kind of life insurance plan you can make a once in a life time payment of the premium and reap the benefits. In this kind of insurance plan the maturity benefit you receive depends on the term selected and the amount paid as one time premium. Generally, this kind of insurance has the minimum age of insurance as 18years and maximum time as 60years. The total age covered is upto 75 years. The term for insurance generally is 5, 7, and 15 or 20 years, you can choose the term as per you capability.
This kind of life insurance is good as one can also take loan on the basis of this policy. However, for the first 3 years of taking policy you cannot take the loan. On the completion of the 3 year term, one can take the loan. The amount of loan approved depends entirely upon the number of years the policy has been taken.
In this kind of plan the life insurance cover increases every year to combat inflation. The life insurance plan also provides enhanced Accident Rider. This feature makes it a very good plan for those with low incomes and those who can invest a large amount once in a lifetime. Those who have also have a number of dependents, should also take this policy.
Generally, the premiums paid for the insurance qualify for tax rebate under Sec 88 of Income Tax Act, 1961 and the returns are fully exempted under Sec 10(10D). So, invest in an insurance policy and make your future life as easy as possible.
In this kind of life insurance plan you can make a once in a life time payment of the premium and reap the benefits. In this kind of insurance plan the maturity benefit you receive depends on the term selected and the amount paid as one time premium. Generally, this kind of insurance has the minimum age of insurance as 18years and maximum time as 60years. The total age covered is upto 75 years. The term for insurance generally is 5, 7, and 15 or 20 years, you can choose the term as per you capability.
This kind of life insurance is good as one can also take loan on the basis of this policy. However, for the first 3 years of taking policy you cannot take the loan. On the completion of the 3 year term, one can take the loan. The amount of loan approved depends entirely upon the number of years the policy has been taken.
In this kind of plan the life insurance cover increases every year to combat inflation. The life insurance plan also provides enhanced Accident Rider. This feature makes it a very good plan for those with low incomes and those who can invest a large amount once in a lifetime. Those who have also have a number of dependents, should also take this policy.
Generally, the premiums paid for the insurance qualify for tax rebate under Sec 88 of Income Tax Act, 1961 and the returns are fully exempted under Sec 10(10D). So, invest in an insurance policy and make your future life as easy as possible.
Life Insurance for the ones whom we care for
Life is so important; but how many of us care for it? We work, we spend hours to take care of our daily needs, we toil ourselves day and night to get the best of our lives, but how many of sit for a couple of minutes to see the life which is passing by? And how many of spend some time to plan a future. Not, many of us.
Life indeed is complex, full of surprises. We need to think about it – about how our family will sustain in this ruthless world, if you are not there. What will happen to your children, if god forbidden something happens to you. Who will stand by your old parents if you are not there to care of them? The answer to all these questions is but one answer – a plan which can assist them financially when you are not there or are not in a condition to help them with their daily needs.
Life Insurance plans offered by so many Life Insurance Providers these days, offer a number of ways you can assist your family. Policies like term insurance, endowment plans, ULIPs, pension plans are there to assist not only your family but also you in case of some unfortunate event.
By taking a life insurance policy, you can be rest assured that your family will be able to stand on its feet, even if you are not there. At least financially they will be strong. You can get an instant life insurance quote online to know about the life insurance policy that will benefit you maximum.
These policies are not mere instruments of taking premiums, but are also an aid to help when you need it the most. And since the returns you get from a insurance policy, are earned from your own money, you don’t have to burden your shoulder with some other persons obligation.
Most of the insurance companies like HDFC Standard, ICICI Prudential and Aegon Religare offer good insurance plans which are really beneficial pre and post retirement. Call upon an insurance advisor, discuss the plan with him, look what best he has to offer and then choose a plan according to your needs.
Life indeed is complex, full of surprises. We need to think about it – about how our family will sustain in this ruthless world, if you are not there. What will happen to your children, if god forbidden something happens to you. Who will stand by your old parents if you are not there to care of them? The answer to all these questions is but one answer – a plan which can assist them financially when you are not there or are not in a condition to help them with their daily needs.
Life Insurance plans offered by so many Life Insurance Providers these days, offer a number of ways you can assist your family. Policies like term insurance, endowment plans, ULIPs, pension plans are there to assist not only your family but also you in case of some unfortunate event.
By taking a life insurance policy, you can be rest assured that your family will be able to stand on its feet, even if you are not there. At least financially they will be strong. You can get an instant life insurance quote online to know about the life insurance policy that will benefit you maximum.
These policies are not mere instruments of taking premiums, but are also an aid to help when you need it the most. And since the returns you get from a insurance policy, are earned from your own money, you don’t have to burden your shoulder with some other persons obligation.
Most of the insurance companies like HDFC Standard, ICICI Prudential and Aegon Religare offer good insurance plans which are really beneficial pre and post retirement. Call upon an insurance advisor, discuss the plan with him, look what best he has to offer and then choose a plan according to your needs.
Trust Your Heart and Find Your Dream Career
"Nothing is as real as a dream. The world can change around you, but your dream will not.
Responsibilities need not erase it. Duties need not obscure it. Because the dream is within you, no one can take it away."
(Read to the end or this article to see who authored this quote.)
Many people don't know that actor George Clooney is a very fine caricaturist. In the early days in Hollywood, he was struggling to make a living. His family suggested that he turn to drawing caricatures as a way of temporarily making some money until he could make it as an actor.
He refused, saying, "If I do that, I will become the most popular caricaturist in Hollywood. But I'll never be an actor."
He and many others listened to their hearts. They knew the meaningful work they wanted and they sought the dream of that work purpose until the dream became one with them.
That's the power of dreams. They are living things. They are seeking us as much as we are seeking them.
Dreams start as ideas in someone's mind. Then, because of the energy, imagination and focused action centered in an individual, the dream becomes reality.
That's how Michelangelo's 'David' came into being. That's how Mozart's Requiem came into being. That's how everything, from cell phones to rockets to indoor plumbing came into being.
What do you want to bring into being? What do you want to birth? Or put another way, what does your heart want to love into the world?
Dreams are born from what we love, from what we are passionate about, from what we care about. And care and love are the manifestation of the heart's intelligence. It's no different when we are birthing meaningful work that provides us with deep career satisfaction.
Recently, I spoke with a computer technician who repaired my computer. He told me he reads books about computers for FUN!
Isn't that true of all of us? If we are intensely interested in something (heart-engaged), we love spending time studying it, reading about it, talking about it, applying it and learning more about it. That's as true for computer technicians who love their work as it is for musicians as it is for gardeners and cooks, as it is for sports fans, who follow their teams avidly.
It is said that if you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life. That's when the line between work and play and fun become blurred. It all feels the same.
I remember when I first had that insight. I was in my first career as a teacher. I walked into my classroom one lovely fall morning and said to myself, "I can't believe I get paid to do this!"
If you are looking for career satisfaction doing meaningful work that helps you bring YOUR career dreams to life, then you must learn to listen to your heart.
I have a client who, until recently, was a respected insurance executive. The company was prepared to transfer her to a prestigious job on the West Coast that would put her on the fast track to even more promotions.
This event precipitated a mini-crisis. Why? Because this offer caused her to realize she didn't like being an insurance executive.
She was good at it, but she didn't like it. In other words, her heart wasn't engaged. She had other career dreams that were demanding to be realized.
Her interests and passion lie in more artistic pursuits and she is now enrolled in a school for fashion design. Moreover, she's NOT scared or worried about the future. She's EXCITED and joyful, involved in the creative process and so happy to - FINALLY - have found work satisfaction in a niche that is right for her.
Notice.
When you find work that is right for you - that helps express who you are - that uses your talents and skills - that challenges you to develop new talents - that's the dream. That's work purpose.
That's a meaningful career. And that is what feeds the heart. So, how about you?
What do you love to do? What gives you joy when you do it? What would you do even if you weren't paid?
What interests you? What do you want to express in the world?
You will remain forever dissatisfied if you don't express something of yourself in your work. The more of yourself you can express in your work, the more you will find joy and fulfillment in your life because that is what the dream is made of: I, expressing myself, through my work.
I hope you find increasing work satisfaction as you express who YOU are in the world.
Responsibilities need not erase it. Duties need not obscure it. Because the dream is within you, no one can take it away."
(Read to the end or this article to see who authored this quote.)
Many people don't know that actor George Clooney is a very fine caricaturist. In the early days in Hollywood, he was struggling to make a living. His family suggested that he turn to drawing caricatures as a way of temporarily making some money until he could make it as an actor.
He refused, saying, "If I do that, I will become the most popular caricaturist in Hollywood. But I'll never be an actor."
He and many others listened to their hearts. They knew the meaningful work they wanted and they sought the dream of that work purpose until the dream became one with them.
That's the power of dreams. They are living things. They are seeking us as much as we are seeking them.
Dreams start as ideas in someone's mind. Then, because of the energy, imagination and focused action centered in an individual, the dream becomes reality.
That's how Michelangelo's 'David' came into being. That's how Mozart's Requiem came into being. That's how everything, from cell phones to rockets to indoor plumbing came into being.
What do you want to bring into being? What do you want to birth? Or put another way, what does your heart want to love into the world?
Dreams are born from what we love, from what we are passionate about, from what we care about. And care and love are the manifestation of the heart's intelligence. It's no different when we are birthing meaningful work that provides us with deep career satisfaction.
Recently, I spoke with a computer technician who repaired my computer. He told me he reads books about computers for FUN!
Isn't that true of all of us? If we are intensely interested in something (heart-engaged), we love spending time studying it, reading about it, talking about it, applying it and learning more about it. That's as true for computer technicians who love their work as it is for musicians as it is for gardeners and cooks, as it is for sports fans, who follow their teams avidly.
It is said that if you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life. That's when the line between work and play and fun become blurred. It all feels the same.
I remember when I first had that insight. I was in my first career as a teacher. I walked into my classroom one lovely fall morning and said to myself, "I can't believe I get paid to do this!"
If you are looking for career satisfaction doing meaningful work that helps you bring YOUR career dreams to life, then you must learn to listen to your heart.
I have a client who, until recently, was a respected insurance executive. The company was prepared to transfer her to a prestigious job on the West Coast that would put her on the fast track to even more promotions.
This event precipitated a mini-crisis. Why? Because this offer caused her to realize she didn't like being an insurance executive.
She was good at it, but she didn't like it. In other words, her heart wasn't engaged. She had other career dreams that were demanding to be realized.
Her interests and passion lie in more artistic pursuits and she is now enrolled in a school for fashion design. Moreover, she's NOT scared or worried about the future. She's EXCITED and joyful, involved in the creative process and so happy to - FINALLY - have found work satisfaction in a niche that is right for her.
Notice.
When you find work that is right for you - that helps express who you are - that uses your talents and skills - that challenges you to develop new talents - that's the dream. That's work purpose.
That's a meaningful career. And that is what feeds the heart. So, how about you?
What do you love to do? What gives you joy when you do it? What would you do even if you weren't paid?
What interests you? What do you want to express in the world?
You will remain forever dissatisfied if you don't express something of yourself in your work. The more of yourself you can express in your work, the more you will find joy and fulfillment in your life because that is what the dream is made of: I, expressing myself, through my work.
I hope you find increasing work satisfaction as you express who YOU are in the world.
How Dreams help us In Our Life?
Your dreams help you in so many ways, showing you so many things that you really have to learn how to translate them according to the scientific method.
You don't need to write them down regularly if you don't wish to, even though this is recommended.
At least, learn how to translate the intriguing dreams that will make you wonder about their meaning. Usually these are the most important ones.
Many times a single, small dream can reveal so much about you, other people or about the problems that most worry you, that this knowledge is a real salvation. For more details visit to www.joint-venture-guide.com .You'll know if the person you love really loves you, if you'll really be successful in your work, if your future plans will come true and if not, what you have to do to make things develop the way that you desire.
You many need to change your mind about someone or something that you desire, after learning the truth you have ignored that seemed to be so good, but in fact is not.
However, the dream warning will save your life and prevent you from getting involved with the wrong person or spend your money, time and energy in the wrong business.
This way your mental health will be preserved, because a person becomes crazy exactly when they cannot posses whom or what they most desire: this is the perfect opportunity for the wild side of their conscience to imprison them in the labyrinth of craziness.
Craziness is threatening you all the time, only because you inherited a wild, evil and violent conscience, the anti-conscience, that wants to destroy your human side and because you live in a crazy world governed by terrorism, violence, immorality and hypocrisy, where everyone is constantly dominated by their anti-conscience.
You need protection, indispensably!
If you are intelligent and you realize how tragic in fact is the reality for the human being, you must care about the information you can have translating your own dreams.
Your dreams are confused and incomprehensible to your eyes because you don't know how to properly translate their symbolic language. As soon as you start understanding the dream language however, things become simpler and you start collecting the benefits from this occupation. To know more logon to www.jointwebventures.com .I even wrote a special e-book concerning the interpretation of dreams about the person you love, using the examples of the people that have participated in my summer offer up to now (I already have too much material), with the basic dream symbols related to love matters, in order to show you how easy it is to interpret dreams about the person you love, because they are the clearer ones.
This e-book will be available soon. It's being revised now.
Of course, you may send me your dreams for free professional dream interpretation and psychotherapy, the summer is not over. Your dreams will be part of another e-book, about how dream interpretation helps everyone overcome their mental illness and simpler problems, which I'm still writing, even if your dream is about a love matter.
I wrote this e-book separately, exactly because the dreams concerning the person you love are very simple and you must know that.
The unconscious mind tries to show you the truth in the simplest form, exactly because these dreams are the most important ones for you!
You don't need to write them down regularly if you don't wish to, even though this is recommended.
At least, learn how to translate the intriguing dreams that will make you wonder about their meaning. Usually these are the most important ones.
Many times a single, small dream can reveal so much about you, other people or about the problems that most worry you, that this knowledge is a real salvation. For more details visit to www.joint-venture-guide.com .You'll know if the person you love really loves you, if you'll really be successful in your work, if your future plans will come true and if not, what you have to do to make things develop the way that you desire.
You many need to change your mind about someone or something that you desire, after learning the truth you have ignored that seemed to be so good, but in fact is not.
However, the dream warning will save your life and prevent you from getting involved with the wrong person or spend your money, time and energy in the wrong business.
This way your mental health will be preserved, because a person becomes crazy exactly when they cannot posses whom or what they most desire: this is the perfect opportunity for the wild side of their conscience to imprison them in the labyrinth of craziness.
Craziness is threatening you all the time, only because you inherited a wild, evil and violent conscience, the anti-conscience, that wants to destroy your human side and because you live in a crazy world governed by terrorism, violence, immorality and hypocrisy, where everyone is constantly dominated by their anti-conscience.
You need protection, indispensably!
If you are intelligent and you realize how tragic in fact is the reality for the human being, you must care about the information you can have translating your own dreams.
Your dreams are confused and incomprehensible to your eyes because you don't know how to properly translate their symbolic language. As soon as you start understanding the dream language however, things become simpler and you start collecting the benefits from this occupation. To know more logon to www.jointwebventures.com .I even wrote a special e-book concerning the interpretation of dreams about the person you love, using the examples of the people that have participated in my summer offer up to now (I already have too much material), with the basic dream symbols related to love matters, in order to show you how easy it is to interpret dreams about the person you love, because they are the clearer ones.
This e-book will be available soon. It's being revised now.
Of course, you may send me your dreams for free professional dream interpretation and psychotherapy, the summer is not over. Your dreams will be part of another e-book, about how dream interpretation helps everyone overcome their mental illness and simpler problems, which I'm still writing, even if your dream is about a love matter.
I wrote this e-book separately, exactly because the dreams concerning the person you love are very simple and you must know that.
The unconscious mind tries to show you the truth in the simplest form, exactly because these dreams are the most important ones for you!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Why Women Cry
A little boy asked his mother, "Why are you crying?" "Because I'm a woman," she told him.
"I don't understand," he said. His Mom just hugged him and said, "And you never will."
Later the little boy asked his father, "Why does mother seem to cry for no reason?"
" All women cry for no reason," was all his dad could say.
The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry.
Finally he put in a call to God. When God got on the phone, he asked, "God, why do women cry so easily?"
God said: " When I made the woman she had to be special. I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yet gentle enough to give comfort. I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection that many times comes from her children. I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone else gives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatigue without complaining. I gave her the sensitivity to love her children under any and all circumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly.
I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart. I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly. And finally, I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to use whenever it is needed."
"You see my son," said God, "the beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart - the place where love resides."
"I don't understand," he said. His Mom just hugged him and said, "And you never will."
Later the little boy asked his father, "Why does mother seem to cry for no reason?"
" All women cry for no reason," was all his dad could say.
The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry.
Finally he put in a call to God. When God got on the phone, he asked, "God, why do women cry so easily?"
God said: " When I made the woman she had to be special. I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yet gentle enough to give comfort. I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection that many times comes from her children. I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone else gives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatigue without complaining. I gave her the sensitivity to love her children under any and all circumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly.
I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart. I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly. And finally, I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to use whenever it is needed."
"You see my son," said God, "the beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart - the place where love resides."
The Best Thing To Give (Inspirational)
The best thing to give:
*Your enemy is forgiveness;
*To an opponenet, tolerance;
*To a friend, your heart;
*To your child, a good example;
*To your father, deference;
*To you mother, conduct that will make her proud of you;
*To yourself; respect;
*To all men, charity.
*Your enemy is forgiveness;
*To an opponenet, tolerance;
*To a friend, your heart;
*To your child, a good example;
*To your father, deference;
*To you mother, conduct that will make her proud of you;
*To yourself; respect;
*To all men, charity.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
A quickie...
A widowed Jewish lady was sunbathing on a beach at Fort Myers, Florida.
She looked up and noticed that a man about her age had walked up, placed his blanket on the sand next to hers and began reading a book.
Smiling, she attempted to strike up a conversation with him. 'Hello sir, how are you today?'
'Fine, thank you,' he responded, and turned back to his book.
'I love the beach. Do you come here often?' she asked.
'First time since my wife passed away 2 years ago,' he replied and turned back to his book.
'I'm sorry to hear that. My husband passed away 3years ago and it is very lonely', she countered.
'Do you live around here?' she asked.
'Yes, I live over in Cape Coral', he answered and again resumed reading.
Trying to find a topic of common interest, she persisted, 'Do you like p***y-cats?'
With that, the man dropped his book, jumped off his blanket and on to her, tore off her swimsuit and gave her the most passionate ride of her life!
When the cloud of sand began to settle, she gasped and asked the man, 'How did you know that was what I wanted?'
The man replied, 'How did you know my name was Katz?'
She looked up and noticed that a man about her age had walked up, placed his blanket on the sand next to hers and began reading a book.
Smiling, she attempted to strike up a conversation with him. 'Hello sir, how are you today?'
'Fine, thank you,' he responded, and turned back to his book.
'I love the beach. Do you come here often?' she asked.
'First time since my wife passed away 2 years ago,' he replied and turned back to his book.
'I'm sorry to hear that. My husband passed away 3years ago and it is very lonely', she countered.
'Do you live around here?' she asked.
'Yes, I live over in Cape Coral', he answered and again resumed reading.
Trying to find a topic of common interest, she persisted, 'Do you like p***y-cats?'
With that, the man dropped his book, jumped off his blanket and on to her, tore off her swimsuit and gave her the most passionate ride of her life!
When the cloud of sand began to settle, she gasped and asked the man, 'How did you know that was what I wanted?'
The man replied, 'How did you know my name was Katz?'
Do you bit your finger nails
Ok are you a nail bitter? here is some thing to think about.
do you wash your hands after you go to the bath room. of course you do. but do you wash your nail with a nail brush nope.
ok how many hands do you shake?
how many door nobs do you touch?
how many pens or pencils do you use?
how many times durning the day do you count money or coins?
how many shoping carts do you touch?
now just think about the above? do you wash your hands ever time you do these things? do you use a nail brush? no of course not.
now just think about putting your fingers in your mouth and all those germs on them from ever thing you have done that day. do you still want to bit those nail? heck no.lol
thanks for reading my blog hope you find it interesting and helpful. have a great day!....
do you wash your hands after you go to the bath room. of course you do. but do you wash your nail with a nail brush nope.
ok how many hands do you shake?
how many door nobs do you touch?
how many pens or pencils do you use?
how many times durning the day do you count money or coins?
how many shoping carts do you touch?
now just think about the above? do you wash your hands ever time you do these things? do you use a nail brush? no of course not.
now just think about putting your fingers in your mouth and all those germs on them from ever thing you have done that day. do you still want to bit those nail? heck no.lol
thanks for reading my blog hope you find it interesting and helpful. have a great day!....
THE LEFT EAR HAS HEART
WHEN IT comes to the language of LOVE, not all ears are created equal. Ina recent study, volunteers listened to emotional and non-emotional words through each ear. The preliminary findings: Subjects had a 64% recall rate of emotional words heard in the left ear, 58% in the right. Why? Because the brain’s right hemisphere, the side that processes emotions better, is more sensitive to signals from the left ear. So if you want to play to someone’s soft side lean to the left.
HEALING POWER OF MUSIC
With the potential to fight infections, soothe pain and ease autism, a sweet melody can be strong medicine
Music, researchers around the world are discovering, can help healing in a variety of ways. Burn victims encouraged to sing while having their dressing changed experience less pain. Cancer patients who listen to music and practise improvising on instruments, for example, see their levels of stress hormones drop and their immune system get stronger.
Part of music’s power comes from its ability to relieve anxiety, which can suppress immune defences as well as intensify the experience of pain. Music, especially singing, takes a person’s mind off the suffering and soothes tension. “By helping patients relax, music eases pain and may even speed recovery ,” says Richard Fratianne, a noted professor of surgery.
The therapeutic use of music seems to activate different parts of the brain, including networks associated with motor control, speech, memory, emotion and speech, explains neuroscientist and musician . It’s a close link between music and movement to help people slowed by strokes, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease.
Music, researchers around the world are discovering, can help healing in a variety of ways. Burn victims encouraged to sing while having their dressing changed experience less pain. Cancer patients who listen to music and practise improvising on instruments, for example, see their levels of stress hormones drop and their immune system get stronger.
Part of music’s power comes from its ability to relieve anxiety, which can suppress immune defences as well as intensify the experience of pain. Music, especially singing, takes a person’s mind off the suffering and soothes tension. “By helping patients relax, music eases pain and may even speed recovery ,” says Richard Fratianne, a noted professor of surgery.
The therapeutic use of music seems to activate different parts of the brain, including networks associated with motor control, speech, memory, emotion and speech, explains neuroscientist and musician . It’s a close link between music and movement to help people slowed by strokes, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease.
HOW MANY WAYS CAN YOU TIE A TIE?
Eighty-five, according to research carried out, the two physicists applied “knot theory,” normally used in physics and the study of DNA, to calculate the figure. They applied a limit of nine moves (the most that can be practically made with a standard tie) of the wider end of the garment to the right, left or centre and away or towards the shirt.
However, only 13 possibilities were considered aesthetically acceptable, of which four are widely used already. And they admit that all 13 are simply fatter or thinner versions of the same V-shaped knot.
However, only 13 possibilities were considered aesthetically acceptable, of which four are widely used already. And they admit that all 13 are simply fatter or thinner versions of the same V-shaped knot.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Never Argue with a Woman
One morning the husband returns after several hours
of fishing and decides to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake,
the wife decides to take the boat out. She motors out a short distance,
anchors, and reads her book. Along comes a Game Warden in his boat. He
pulls up alongside the woman and says, "Good morning, Ma'am. What are you
doing?""Reading a book," she replies, (thinking, "Isn't that obvious?")
"You're in a Restricted Fishing Area," he informs her."I'm sorry, officer,
but I'm not fishing. I'm reading.""Yes, but you have all the equipment. For
all I know you could start at any moment. I'll have to take you in and write you up." "If you do that, I'll have to charge you with sexual assault," says the woman."But I haven't even touched you," says the game warden."That's true, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment." "Have a nice day ma'am," and he left.
MORAL:
Never argue with a woman who reads. It's likely she can also think .
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain.'
of fishing and decides to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake,
the wife decides to take the boat out. She motors out a short distance,
anchors, and reads her book. Along comes a Game Warden in his boat. He
pulls up alongside the woman and says, "Good morning, Ma'am. What are you
doing?""Reading a book," she replies, (thinking, "Isn't that obvious?")
"You're in a Restricted Fishing Area," he informs her."I'm sorry, officer,
but I'm not fishing. I'm reading.""Yes, but you have all the equipment. For
all I know you could start at any moment. I'll have to take you in and write you up." "If you do that, I'll have to charge you with sexual assault," says the woman."But I haven't even touched you," says the game warden."That's true, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment." "Have a nice day ma'am," and he left.
MORAL:
Never argue with a woman who reads. It's likely she can also think .
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain.'
Beatiful story: A Five Year's Old First Job
Here's a truly heartwarming story about the bond formed between a little 5-year-old girl and some construction workers that will make you believe that we all can make a difference when we give a child the gift of our time.
A young family moved into a house, next to a vacant lot. One day, a construction crew began to build a house on the empty lot.
The young family's 5-year-old daughter naturally took an interest in the goings-on and spent much of each day observing the workers.
Eventually the construction crew, all of them 'gems-in-the-rough,' more or less, adopted her as a kind of project mascot. They chatted with her during coffee and lunch breaks, and gave her little jobs to do here and there to make her feel important.
At the end of the first week, they even presented her with a pay envelope containing ten dollars. The little girl took this home to her mother who suggested that she take her ten dollars 'pay' she'd received to the bank the next day to start a savings account.
When the girl and her mom got to the bank, the teller was equally impressed and asked the little girl how she had come by her very own pay check at such a young age. The little girl proudly replied, 'I worked last week with a real construction crew building the new house next door to us.'
'Oh my goodness gracious,' said the teller, 'and will you be working on the house again this week, too?'
The little girl replied, 'I will, if those a*****es at Home Depot ever deliver the f…..n' Gyprock...'
Kind of brings a tear to the eye - doesn’t 't it?
A young family moved into a house, next to a vacant lot. One day, a construction crew began to build a house on the empty lot.
The young family's 5-year-old daughter naturally took an interest in the goings-on and spent much of each day observing the workers.
Eventually the construction crew, all of them 'gems-in-the-rough,' more or less, adopted her as a kind of project mascot. They chatted with her during coffee and lunch breaks, and gave her little jobs to do here and there to make her feel important.
At the end of the first week, they even presented her with a pay envelope containing ten dollars. The little girl took this home to her mother who suggested that she take her ten dollars 'pay' she'd received to the bank the next day to start a savings account.
When the girl and her mom got to the bank, the teller was equally impressed and asked the little girl how she had come by her very own pay check at such a young age. The little girl proudly replied, 'I worked last week with a real construction crew building the new house next door to us.'
'Oh my goodness gracious,' said the teller, 'and will you be working on the house again this week, too?'
The little girl replied, 'I will, if those a*****es at Home Depot ever deliver the f…..n' Gyprock...'
Kind of brings a tear to the eye - doesn’t 't it?
A Childs Love: Most Trusting Love
Innocence projecting
Life in them reflecting
All that glory knowing
Love is always flowing
Each day an inspiration
Of childhood revelations
In life a special reason
For love in every season
Children are the treasure
In life that we all measure
For goodness always matters
Within a world that's shatters
For they shall be the leaders
And never be defeaters
For love in life that's showing
Will keep the light that's glowing.
Life in them reflecting
All that glory knowing
Love is always flowing
Each day an inspiration
Of childhood revelations
In life a special reason
For love in every season
Children are the treasure
In life that we all measure
For goodness always matters
Within a world that's shatters
For they shall be the leaders
And never be defeaters
For love in life that's showing
Will keep the light that's glowing.
The Light
Clouds in life are passing
But soon we see His Light
Written in the wind and sea
God's everlasting Might
He sees us in our passing
He looks at us with pride
Knows that we are searching
For Gentle Hands to Guide
But seas in life are rough now
Through clouds it's hard to see
But Light will enter brightly
Then peacefully appease
For we are but the sailors
Who seek to find the way
Mighty is our Captain
Who guides us as we pray
The waters calm and steady
Upon the shore we'll land
And we will know the bounty
His Ray of Light so Grand.
But soon we see His Light
Written in the wind and sea
God's everlasting Might
He sees us in our passing
He looks at us with pride
Knows that we are searching
For Gentle Hands to Guide
But seas in life are rough now
Through clouds it's hard to see
But Light will enter brightly
Then peacefully appease
For we are but the sailors
Who seek to find the way
Mighty is our Captain
Who guides us as we pray
The waters calm and steady
Upon the shore we'll land
And we will know the bounty
His Ray of Light so Grand.
Clock of Life
The clock of life is wound but once,
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hands will stop
At late or early hour.
To lose one's wealth is sad indeed,
To lose one's health is more,
To lose one's soul is such a loss
That no man can restore.
The present only is our own,
So Live, Love, toil with a will --
Place no faith in 'Tomorrow' --
For the clock may then be still.
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hands will stop
At late or early hour.
To lose one's wealth is sad indeed,
To lose one's health is more,
To lose one's soul is such a loss
That no man can restore.
The present only is our own,
So Live, Love, toil with a will --
Place no faith in 'Tomorrow' --
For the clock may then be still.
Colors
Lets have a look at what's colors represent moods:
Red……excitement, strength, sex, passion, speed, danger.
Blue…..(most popular) trust, reliability, belonging, coolness.
Yellow…warmth, sunshine, cheer, happiness.
Orange…playfulness, warmth, vibrant.
Green….nature, fresh, cool, growth, abundance.
Purple…royal, spirituality, dignity.
Pink…..soft, sweet, nurture, security.
White….pure, virginal, clean, youthful, mild.
Black….sophistication, elegant, seductive, mystery, sexual.
Gold…..prestige, expensive, elite.
Silver…prestige, cold, scientific.
Red……excitement, strength, sex, passion, speed, danger.
Blue…..(most popular) trust, reliability, belonging, coolness.
Yellow…warmth, sunshine, cheer, happiness.
Orange…playfulness, warmth, vibrant.
Green….nature, fresh, cool, growth, abundance.
Purple…royal, spirituality, dignity.
Pink…..soft, sweet, nurture, security.
White….pure, virginal, clean, youthful, mild.
Black….sophistication, elegant, seductive, mystery, sexual.
Gold…..prestige, expensive, elite.
Silver…prestige, cold, scientific.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
In Land of Milk and Honey...
Joke Time...
A Somalian arrives in Los Angeles as a new immigrant to USA .
He stops the first person he sees walking down the street and says,
"Thank you Mr. American for letting me in this country, giving me housing, food stamps, free medical care, and free education!"
The passerby says, "You are mistaken, I am a New Zealander."
The man goes on and encounters another passerby. " Thank you for having such beautiful country here in USA !"
The person says, "I not American, I Vietnamese."
The new arrival walks further, and the next person he sees he stops, shakes his hand and says, "Thank you for the wonderful USA!"
That person puts up his hand and says, "I am from Middle East , I am not American!"
He finally sees a nice lady and asks, "Are you an American?"
She says, "No, I am from Africa !"
Puzzled, he asks her, "Where are all the Americans?"
The African lady checks her watch and says...."Probably at work."
A Somalian arrives in Los Angeles as a new immigrant to USA .
He stops the first person he sees walking down the street and says,
"Thank you Mr. American for letting me in this country, giving me housing, food stamps, free medical care, and free education!"
The passerby says, "You are mistaken, I am a New Zealander."
The man goes on and encounters another passerby. " Thank you for having such beautiful country here in USA !"
The person says, "I not American, I Vietnamese."
The new arrival walks further, and the next person he sees he stops, shakes his hand and says, "Thank you for the wonderful USA!"
That person puts up his hand and says, "I am from Middle East , I am not American!"
He finally sees a nice lady and asks, "Are you an American?"
She says, "No, I am from Africa !"
Puzzled, he asks her, "Where are all the Americans?"
The African lady checks her watch and says...."Probably at work."
Monday, February 23, 2009
Two Choices - a human story
What would you do?....you make the choice. Don't look for a punch line, there isn't one. Read it anyway. My question is: Would you have made the same choice?
At a fund-raising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:
'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does, is done with perfection.
Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?'
The audience was stilled by the query.
The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
Then he told the following story:
Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.
I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.'
Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.
In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again.
Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.
At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game?
Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.
However, as Shay stepped up to the
plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact.
The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed.
The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay.
As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.
The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman.
Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates.
Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!'
Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base.
He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!'
Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base.
By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team, who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team.
He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head.
Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.
All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the way, Shay!'
Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!'
As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!'
Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team
'That day', said the father softly, with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'.
Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!
So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice:
Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process?
A wise man once said, every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them.
At a fund-raising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:
'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does, is done with perfection.
Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?'
The audience was stilled by the query.
The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
Then he told the following story:
Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.
I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.'
Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.
In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again.
Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.
At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game?
Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.
However, as Shay stepped up to the
plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact.
The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed.
The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay.
As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.
The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman.
Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates.
Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!'
Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base.
He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!'
Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base.
By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team, who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team.
He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head.
Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.
All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the way, Shay!'
Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!'
As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!'
Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team
'That day', said the father softly, with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'.
Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!
So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice:
Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process?
A wise man once said, every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them.
Dating Advise For Women
Dating advice for women has changed drastically in the last decade. Women used to bend over backward to please a potential suitor; then they would lose them as time wore on. "I never seem to get past the first few months. What am I doing wrong?" Sound familiar? It may be that your intentions are good, but you’re trying too hard. I’ve put together some sound dating advice for women in order to avoid this and make things go more smoothly.
Talk to Avoid
Don’t talk about your last boyfriend, fiancé or husband on the first few dates. Men immediately think one of two things if you talk about your ex during a date. Either you’re still hung up on him, or you’re bitter and angry about being dumped. A guy doesn’t like either of these options, and he’ll take a pass on someone with that kind of emotional baggage.
Be Yourself
For a single woman, dating advice should probably be more complex than that, but really it all boils down to those two words: "Be yourself." Don’t pull out all the stops being a sex kitten siren if that’s not you. Forget playing the girl next door to catch his interest if you aren’t that type. You’ll only get yourself stuck in a role that will increasingly frustrate you, and eventually he’ll see through the charade and be offended by your dishonesty.
Don’t Trap Him
Even if you sense that he’s got great potential early on, don’t start talking about your future dreams of marriage and family right away. The most often overlooked dating advice for women is usually the most crucial – men take things slower. They don’t want to be considered as a potential life partner after date number two. They’ll feel trapped, and like all trapped animals, they will run or go on the defensive.
Accept Compliments
You’d be surprised how often men complain that women can’t take a compliment properly. If he tells you that you look wonderful, a simple, "Thank you," is the right response. Don’t cut yourself down or accuse him of, "Just saying that." You also shouldn’t go into details about how you borrowed the dress from a friend because it was so expensive you’d never dream of buying it yourself, blah, blah, blah. If he says you look lovely in the dress, acknowledge the compliment and move on. He really doesn’t want the details of how or why you look great – but he will appreciate being thanked for noticing that you do. Accepting a compliment means you are self-confident and comfortable with yourself.
Be on Time
This is great dating advice for women and men. Whether you’re meeting a man someplace or he’s picking you up, it’s not polite or thoughtful to leave him cooling his heels – and no, and it doesn’t build anticipation. It just makes you seem rude.
Express Your Opinions Honestly
Men quickly get bored with women who always agree with everything they say. Sure, it may be flattering to the ego for a bit, but that soon fades to boredom and/or irritation when they realize they can’t sustain an intelligent conversation with you. It’s also draining personally to keep up that kind of charade – what are you going to do a year from now? Stand firm on issues that are important to you, discuss events honestly but don’t get into an argument just to prove you’re right. Disagreeing on some things is what adds spice to a relationship – as long as the disagreements aren’t moral or life-changing.
Don’t be a Pest
It may sound like old-fashioned dating advice for women, but I believe it still holds true – men like to know they’re interesting, but they don’t want to be nagged into dating you. Can you call a man a few days after a date and thank him for a nice evening and chat? Sure! But don’t call the next day, then the next, then the next. Leave one message – if he’s interested, he’ll call you back. It may take a few days (he could be busy, he could be nervous). If he isn’t interested, increasingly desperate, repeated messages from you won’t help your cause.
Be Positive
You are on a date, not at a therapy session. Spilling your guts about how much your mother drives you crazy and why you want to kill your boss will not endear you to a man who had hopes of enjoying a relaxing evening with you. Should you hope that a relationship includes friendship? Yes! But don’t treat a man you’ve recently started dating like your old college roommate or priest. True confessions aren’t good for the soul or the relationship too early on, and lots of complaining gives the impression you may never be happy with your life.
Dating advice for women could go on for pages, but the eight major rules above will cover almost every situation. Whether it’s your first date or your tenth, it’s all about being true to yourself, honest with him and kind to both of you.
Talk to Avoid
Don’t talk about your last boyfriend, fiancé or husband on the first few dates. Men immediately think one of two things if you talk about your ex during a date. Either you’re still hung up on him, or you’re bitter and angry about being dumped. A guy doesn’t like either of these options, and he’ll take a pass on someone with that kind of emotional baggage.
Be Yourself
For a single woman, dating advice should probably be more complex than that, but really it all boils down to those two words: "Be yourself." Don’t pull out all the stops being a sex kitten siren if that’s not you. Forget playing the girl next door to catch his interest if you aren’t that type. You’ll only get yourself stuck in a role that will increasingly frustrate you, and eventually he’ll see through the charade and be offended by your dishonesty.
Don’t Trap Him
Even if you sense that he’s got great potential early on, don’t start talking about your future dreams of marriage and family right away. The most often overlooked dating advice for women is usually the most crucial – men take things slower. They don’t want to be considered as a potential life partner after date number two. They’ll feel trapped, and like all trapped animals, they will run or go on the defensive.
Accept Compliments
You’d be surprised how often men complain that women can’t take a compliment properly. If he tells you that you look wonderful, a simple, "Thank you," is the right response. Don’t cut yourself down or accuse him of, "Just saying that." You also shouldn’t go into details about how you borrowed the dress from a friend because it was so expensive you’d never dream of buying it yourself, blah, blah, blah. If he says you look lovely in the dress, acknowledge the compliment and move on. He really doesn’t want the details of how or why you look great – but he will appreciate being thanked for noticing that you do. Accepting a compliment means you are self-confident and comfortable with yourself.
Be on Time
This is great dating advice for women and men. Whether you’re meeting a man someplace or he’s picking you up, it’s not polite or thoughtful to leave him cooling his heels – and no, and it doesn’t build anticipation. It just makes you seem rude.
Express Your Opinions Honestly
Men quickly get bored with women who always agree with everything they say. Sure, it may be flattering to the ego for a bit, but that soon fades to boredom and/or irritation when they realize they can’t sustain an intelligent conversation with you. It’s also draining personally to keep up that kind of charade – what are you going to do a year from now? Stand firm on issues that are important to you, discuss events honestly but don’t get into an argument just to prove you’re right. Disagreeing on some things is what adds spice to a relationship – as long as the disagreements aren’t moral or life-changing.
Don’t be a Pest
It may sound like old-fashioned dating advice for women, but I believe it still holds true – men like to know they’re interesting, but they don’t want to be nagged into dating you. Can you call a man a few days after a date and thank him for a nice evening and chat? Sure! But don’t call the next day, then the next, then the next. Leave one message – if he’s interested, he’ll call you back. It may take a few days (he could be busy, he could be nervous). If he isn’t interested, increasingly desperate, repeated messages from you won’t help your cause.
Be Positive
You are on a date, not at a therapy session. Spilling your guts about how much your mother drives you crazy and why you want to kill your boss will not endear you to a man who had hopes of enjoying a relaxing evening with you. Should you hope that a relationship includes friendship? Yes! But don’t treat a man you’ve recently started dating like your old college roommate or priest. True confessions aren’t good for the soul or the relationship too early on, and lots of complaining gives the impression you may never be happy with your life.
Dating advice for women could go on for pages, but the eight major rules above will cover almost every situation. Whether it’s your first date or your tenth, it’s all about being true to yourself, honest with him and kind to both of you.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
ASPBERGERS Syndrome
Treatments for Aspergers Syndrome
There is not one set treatment for Aspergers syndrome. You will not find a medication that will cure a child with Aspergers. Instead you will find several treatments to help with the problems associated with Aspergers syndrome. Here we will examine some of the treatments used with Aspergers syndrome.
Social Skills Training
Children with Aspergers syndrome have a hard time understanding facial expressions, and tone of voice. They tend to take everything said to them very literally. They do not know when a person is joking with them. Children can be taught to recognize changes in peoples voice, and what different facial expressions mean. They also need to be taught how to use better eye contact. This type of training can help the child to make friends. They are taught how to act around other people. Some children with Aspergers want to be around other kids, they just do not know how to act with them. They can be taught how to act when out shopping, or at a restaurant.
Cognitive behavior Therapy
This type of therapy teaches the child with Aspergers syndrome to find ways to cope. They are taught ways to reduce anxiety. They learn how to spot a situation that can cause them trouble. Then they learn techniques to cope when they are in that situation. Aspergers children often have a lot of anxiety. They have a hard time in social settings. They can have anxiety attacks, or complete meltdowns. The Cognitive therapy teaches them ways to stop the meltdowns from occurring. This therapy will teach a child with Aspergers that when they feel an unwanted behavior coming on something they can do to stop it. They are taught how to remove them selves from a situation that makes them uneasy.
Medication
There is no medication that will treat Aspergers. However there is medication to help with some of the symptoms of Aspergers. Many children with Aspergers have anxiety and depression. There are medications that can help relieve these problems. Relieving the anxiety can help the child feel more comfortable in social settings. Medications like these can have side effects. You will need to monitor your child's behavior while they are on the medication. Some children with Aspergers have a hard time sleeping. There are medications to help the child sleep.
Parenting Education
There is training for the parents of Aspergers children. This training consists of ways you can deal with behaviors. Learning things that can help to calm your child down when they are having a meltdown, or anxiety attack. Parents are taught ways of using reward systems to control behavior problems. They are taught how to deal with the behaviors in the home. This helps them to deal with behaviors in other places too.
With these treatments the life of an Aspergers child can be easier. If no treatment is given children with Aspergers can have trouble with depression, and anxiety. They have such a hard time dealing with people socially they might turn to alcohol, or drugs to relax them. Getting a treatment plan that works is a number one priority for your Aspergers child.
There is not one set treatment for Aspergers syndrome. You will not find a medication that will cure a child with Aspergers. Instead you will find several treatments to help with the problems associated with Aspergers syndrome. Here we will examine some of the treatments used with Aspergers syndrome.
Social Skills Training
Children with Aspergers syndrome have a hard time understanding facial expressions, and tone of voice. They tend to take everything said to them very literally. They do not know when a person is joking with them. Children can be taught to recognize changes in peoples voice, and what different facial expressions mean. They also need to be taught how to use better eye contact. This type of training can help the child to make friends. They are taught how to act around other people. Some children with Aspergers want to be around other kids, they just do not know how to act with them. They can be taught how to act when out shopping, or at a restaurant.
Cognitive behavior Therapy
This type of therapy teaches the child with Aspergers syndrome to find ways to cope. They are taught ways to reduce anxiety. They learn how to spot a situation that can cause them trouble. Then they learn techniques to cope when they are in that situation. Aspergers children often have a lot of anxiety. They have a hard time in social settings. They can have anxiety attacks, or complete meltdowns. The Cognitive therapy teaches them ways to stop the meltdowns from occurring. This therapy will teach a child with Aspergers that when they feel an unwanted behavior coming on something they can do to stop it. They are taught how to remove them selves from a situation that makes them uneasy.
Medication
There is no medication that will treat Aspergers. However there is medication to help with some of the symptoms of Aspergers. Many children with Aspergers have anxiety and depression. There are medications that can help relieve these problems. Relieving the anxiety can help the child feel more comfortable in social settings. Medications like these can have side effects. You will need to monitor your child's behavior while they are on the medication. Some children with Aspergers have a hard time sleeping. There are medications to help the child sleep.
Parenting Education
There is training for the parents of Aspergers children. This training consists of ways you can deal with behaviors. Learning things that can help to calm your child down when they are having a meltdown, or anxiety attack. Parents are taught ways of using reward systems to control behavior problems. They are taught how to deal with the behaviors in the home. This helps them to deal with behaviors in other places too.
With these treatments the life of an Aspergers child can be easier. If no treatment is given children with Aspergers can have trouble with depression, and anxiety. They have such a hard time dealing with people socially they might turn to alcohol, or drugs to relax them. Getting a treatment plan that works is a number one priority for your Aspergers child.
Zen and the Art of Buying Computer Parts
Follow the path to find your way to computer bliss.
Rule #1: Never, ever buy the best parts. They charge you way too much for a small performance boost. Instead, use that saved money for something computers always need...accessories like a printer, webcam, or external memory.
Rule #2: Know your needs. Getting parts that are way more than you'll ever need isn't smart. It's a bad investment and getting parts that are not nearly as good as you need them to be is an even worse investment!
Rule #3: See through the lies and make an investment you'll be happy with. The $500 computers from Dell or Gateway are a great value, BUT they skimp on things that multimedia and gaming computers need... the RAM, Video card, Sound Card, and even the motherboard! I'd only recommend computers below $700 if they are for office computers.
Buying computer parts doesn't have to be a pain. It's just common sense if you follow the three rules. One...don't buy the absolute best parts, two...don't buy parts you don't need, and three...make an investment you will be happy with. Now, if you want more advice and recommendations, check out the website on the bottom of this article.
Rule #1: Never, ever buy the best parts. They charge you way too much for a small performance boost. Instead, use that saved money for something computers always need...accessories like a printer, webcam, or external memory.
Rule #2: Know your needs. Getting parts that are way more than you'll ever need isn't smart. It's a bad investment and getting parts that are not nearly as good as you need them to be is an even worse investment!
Rule #3: See through the lies and make an investment you'll be happy with. The $500 computers from Dell or Gateway are a great value, BUT they skimp on things that multimedia and gaming computers need... the RAM, Video card, Sound Card, and even the motherboard! I'd only recommend computers below $700 if they are for office computers.
Buying computer parts doesn't have to be a pain. It's just common sense if you follow the three rules. One...don't buy the absolute best parts, two...don't buy parts you don't need, and three...make an investment you will be happy with. Now, if you want more advice and recommendations, check out the website on the bottom of this article.
14 Household Ways To Protect Your Computer From Viruses
Computer viruses are deadly. They often spread without any apparent contact and can be a nuisance, or even worse, fatal to your computer. Individuals who create these viruses, estimated at 10-15 new ones a day, are the electronic version of terrorists. Their goal is to inflict havoc and destruction on as many people as possible by disabling, stealing, damaging, or destroying computer and information resources. Often, they have no specific target in mind, so no one is safe. If you access the internet, share files or your computer with others, or load anything from diskettes, CDs, or DVDs onto your computer, you are vulnerable to viruses.
Fortunately, there are good guys working just as hard as the hackers to develop cures for viruses as quickly as they send them off into cyberspace. And there are many things you can do to keep your computer from catching viruses in the first place.
Defining Viruses:
A virus is a small computer program that can copy and spread itself from one computer to another, with or without the help of the user. However, viruses typically do more than just be fruitful and multiply, which is bad enough in itself because it hogs system resources. Anything else viruses are programmed to do, from displaying annoying messages to destroying files, is called their payload. Often, they cannot deliver their payload until an unsuspecting user does something to make the virus execute its programmed function. This could be as simple as clicking on an innocent looking file attachment with the .exe (executable) extension.
Catching a Virus:
Most viruses are spread through e-mail attachments because it's the easiest way to do it. Although Macintosh, Unix, and Linux systems can catch viruses, hackers are particularly keen on exploiting the security weaknesses in anything Microsoft, particularly Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express. Because of the popularity of this software, hackers get maximum bang for their buck, and they probably get some satisfaction from continually reminding Microsoft that being big doesn't mean you're perfect.
Solution 1: Anti-virus Software
Your first line of defense is to install anti-virus software. To be extra safe, also install firewall software, which is now included in some anti-virus packages. This software can scan all of your drives for viruses and neutralize them. Here are some features to consider when evaluating anti-virus software.
- Compatibility with your operating system - Make sure the software works with your system, particularly if you are using an older operating system like Windows 98.
- Firewall software - If it's not included, find out if it's available. If you must, buy it from another vendor.
- Automatic background protection - This means your software will constantly scan behind the scenes for infections and neutralize them as they appear. This provides some peace of mind.
- Automatic, frequent updates - Because new viruses appear every day, you'll want regular updates. It's even better if they occur automatically when you connect to the internet. If automatic updating isn't included, you'll have to check the vendor's website and download updates yourself. This is vitally important, because you will not be protected from new viruses if your software is out of date.
- Disaster recovery - Software with a recovery utility to help you get your system back to normal after a virus attack is always good to have.
- ICSA certification - The International Computer Security Associatioin has standards for the detection rates of anti-virus software. Make sure your software has the ICSA certification.
- Technical support - It's a good idea to select a package that offers free technical support, either online or through a toll-free number. If you're ever felled by a virus, you may need it. Some anti-virus software vendors are Symantec Corporation (Norton AntiVirus), McAfee Corporation (McAfee VirusScan), Trend Micro Inc. (PC-cillin), and Zone Labs Inc. (Zone Alarm Suite).
Solution 2: The Virus Scan
If you receive a particularly juicy attachment that you're dying to open, save it on your Windows desktop and run your anti-virus software on it first. To do this, click once gently on the file on your desktop ... don't actually open it ... then right click and choose Scan with (Name of Anti-Virus Software) to activate a virus scan.
If it's infected, your anti-virus software may neutralize it, or at least tell you the attachment is too dangerous to open. On the other hand, don't feel guilty if the very thought of saving a potentially damaging file anywhere on your system is enough to quell your eagerness to open it and make you delete it immediately.
Solution 3: Delete first, ask questions later.
When in doubt about the origin of an e-mail, the best thing to do is delete it without previewing or opening it. However, some viruses, such as Klez, propagate by fishing in people's address books and sending themselves from any contact they find to another random contact. You can spread a virus just by having people in your address book, even if you don't actually e-mail them anything. They'll receive it from someone else in your address book, which really makes life confusing. Because of the proliferation of porn on the internet, e-mail viruses often tempt victims by using sexual filenames, such as nudes.exe. Don't fall for it.
Solution 4: Beware of virus hoaxes
E-mails warning you about viruses are almost always hoaxes. You may be tempted to believe them because you typically receive them from well-meaning friends, who received them from friends, etc. These e-mails themselves usually aren't viruses, but some have actually fallen into the hands of hackers who loaded them with viruses and forwarded them merrily on their way as a sick joke.
The proliferation of e-mails about virus hoaxes can become nearly as bad as a real virus. Think about it, if you obey an e-mail that tells you to forward it to everyone in your address book, and they THEY do it, and this goes on long enough, you could bring the internet to its knees. If you ever want to verify a virus warning, your anti-virus vendor may have a list of hoaxes on it website. It's in the business of providing the fixes, so it will know which viruses are real.
Solution 5: Beware of filename extensions
The extension of a filename is the three characters that come after the dot. Windows now defaults to hiding filename extensions, but it isn't a good idea. Just being able to see a suspicious extension and deleting the file before opening it can save you from a virus infection.
To see filename extensions in all your directory listings, on the Windows XP desktop, click Start button | Control Panels | Folder Options | View Tab. Clear the check box for Hide extensions of known file types. Click Apply | OK. System files will still be hidden, but you'll be able to see extensions for all the files you need to be concerned with. Viruses often live on files with these extensions - .vbs, .shs, .pif, .Ink - and they are almost never legitimately used for attachments.
Solution 6: Disable the .shs extension
One dangerous extension you can easily disable is .shs. Windows won't recognize it and will alert you before attempting to open an .shs file. The extension is usually just used for "scrap object" files created in Word and Excell when you highlight text and drag it to the desktop for pasting into other documents. If this isn't something you ever do, or you have Word and Excell 2000 or later, which allow you to have 12 items on the Clipboard, click the Start button | Control Panel | Folder Options | File Types tab. Under Registered file types, scroll down and highlight the SHS extension. Click Delete | Yes | Apply | OK.
Solution 7: Dealing with double extensions
When you turn on your extensions in Windows, you'll be able to detect viruses that piggy-back themselves onto innocent looking files with a double extension, such as happybirthday.doc.exe. NEVER trust a file with a double extension - it goes against Nature.
Solution 8: Beware of unknown .exe files
A virus is a program that must be executed to do its dirty work, so it may have an .exe extension. Unfortunately, this is the same extension used by legitimate program files. So, don't panic if you find files named Word.exe or Excel.exe on your system - they're your Microsoft software. Just don't EVER open any file with an .exe extension if you don't know what the file's purpose is.
Solution 9: Watch out for icons
Viruses in attachment files have been known to assume the shape of familiar looking icons of text or picture files, like the wolf in the hen house. If you recieve an unexpected attachment, don't open it without first running it through your anti-virus software.
Solution 10: Don't download from public newgroups
What better place for a hacker to lurk and stick his virus than in the middle of a crowd? Sooner or later, someone's bound to download it and get the virus going. Don't download files and programs from newsgroups or bulletin boards, or open attachments sent from strangers in chatrooms ("Let's exchange pictures!") without first scanning with your anti-virus software.
Solution 11: Avoid bootleg software
This may seem like a no brainer, but sometimes that tiny price tag on a popular but expensive package can be too good to resist. Resist it! Likewise, be careful about accepting application software from others. You don't know where it's been, and what may have started out as a perfectly clean package could have become infected during installation on someone else's infected computer.
Solution 12: Protect macros in MS Word, Excel, and Powerpoint
A common type of virus uses macros. Macros are sets of stored commands that users can save as shortcuts to perform long functions in just a few keystrokes. A macro virus may perform such mischief as changing file types from text files or spreadsheets into templates, locking up keyboards, and deleting files. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint come with macro virus protection. To make sure yours is activated, open each application, then click Tools menu | Macro | Security. On the Security Level tab, make sure Medium or High is selected. Clcik OK. If you are already infected with a macro virus, you may find that the steps of this procedure are unavailable becasue the virus has disabled them. In that event, run a virus scan on your system to see if your anti-virus software can kill the virus.
Solution 13: Use passwords
If you share your computer, it's a good idea to assign everyone a password. Passwords should be a combination of letters and numbers no less than eight characters long, and preferably nonsensical. Never write passwords and stick them anywhere near the computer. To assign passwords in Windows XP, click the Start button | Control Panel | User Accounts. Follow the prompts to assign/change passwords.
Solution 14: Update application software
Microsoft constantly issues patches for the security holes in its operating system and applications software. however, don't be lulled into complacency if you have Windows Update automatically checking things for you. Update checks for patches to repair bugs in the operating system, not for security problems.
To get the latest security hotfixes (as Microsoft calls them), visit www.microsoft.com and look for hotfixes for all your Microsoft software, particularly Outlook and Outlook Express.
Microsoft also has a free downloadable package called Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA) that scans your system for missing hotfixes. It works with Windows 2000 and XP Home and Professional only. It doesn't support Windows 95, 98, or ME.
To download the MBSA, go to the TechNet section of the Microsoft Website. Be warned that the information is written in techie language, so you may find it daunting.
Last Words:
Now that you know some ways for avoiding and dealing with viruses, let's wrap things up with some solution you've probably heard before but have ignored.
- Back up your files regularly - If a virus crashes your sytem, you'll feel much better if you've got backup copies of all your important files. Make the backup copies on a media that's separate from the computer, such as on diskettes, CDs, or zip disks. Scan them for viruses before you put them away to make sure they aren't infected. If they are, they'll do you no good if you ever have to use them because they will just transmit the virus right back onto your computer.
- Make a boot disk - Create an emergency boot diskette before you have a problem so you can start your computer after a serious security problem To make a boot diskette with Windows XP, put a blank floppy disk in the drive. Open My Computer, then right click the floppy drive. Click Format. Under Format options, click Create an MS-DOS startup disk. Click Start. Keep the disk in a safe place. With luck, you'll never need to use it.
- Turn off you computer - DSL and cable connections that are "always on" may be convenient, but you should always turn off your computer when its not in use. Hackers can't get to a machine that's powered off.
Fortunately, there are good guys working just as hard as the hackers to develop cures for viruses as quickly as they send them off into cyberspace. And there are many things you can do to keep your computer from catching viruses in the first place.
Defining Viruses:
A virus is a small computer program that can copy and spread itself from one computer to another, with or without the help of the user. However, viruses typically do more than just be fruitful and multiply, which is bad enough in itself because it hogs system resources. Anything else viruses are programmed to do, from displaying annoying messages to destroying files, is called their payload. Often, they cannot deliver their payload until an unsuspecting user does something to make the virus execute its programmed function. This could be as simple as clicking on an innocent looking file attachment with the .exe (executable) extension.
Catching a Virus:
Most viruses are spread through e-mail attachments because it's the easiest way to do it. Although Macintosh, Unix, and Linux systems can catch viruses, hackers are particularly keen on exploiting the security weaknesses in anything Microsoft, particularly Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express. Because of the popularity of this software, hackers get maximum bang for their buck, and they probably get some satisfaction from continually reminding Microsoft that being big doesn't mean you're perfect.
Solution 1: Anti-virus Software
Your first line of defense is to install anti-virus software. To be extra safe, also install firewall software, which is now included in some anti-virus packages. This software can scan all of your drives for viruses and neutralize them. Here are some features to consider when evaluating anti-virus software.
- Compatibility with your operating system - Make sure the software works with your system, particularly if you are using an older operating system like Windows 98.
- Firewall software - If it's not included, find out if it's available. If you must, buy it from another vendor.
- Automatic background protection - This means your software will constantly scan behind the scenes for infections and neutralize them as they appear. This provides some peace of mind.
- Automatic, frequent updates - Because new viruses appear every day, you'll want regular updates. It's even better if they occur automatically when you connect to the internet. If automatic updating isn't included, you'll have to check the vendor's website and download updates yourself. This is vitally important, because you will not be protected from new viruses if your software is out of date.
- Disaster recovery - Software with a recovery utility to help you get your system back to normal after a virus attack is always good to have.
- ICSA certification - The International Computer Security Associatioin has standards for the detection rates of anti-virus software. Make sure your software has the ICSA certification.
- Technical support - It's a good idea to select a package that offers free technical support, either online or through a toll-free number. If you're ever felled by a virus, you may need it. Some anti-virus software vendors are Symantec Corporation (Norton AntiVirus), McAfee Corporation (McAfee VirusScan), Trend Micro Inc. (PC-cillin), and Zone Labs Inc. (Zone Alarm Suite).
Solution 2: The Virus Scan
If you receive a particularly juicy attachment that you're dying to open, save it on your Windows desktop and run your anti-virus software on it first. To do this, click once gently on the file on your desktop ... don't actually open it ... then right click and choose Scan with (Name of Anti-Virus Software) to activate a virus scan.
If it's infected, your anti-virus software may neutralize it, or at least tell you the attachment is too dangerous to open. On the other hand, don't feel guilty if the very thought of saving a potentially damaging file anywhere on your system is enough to quell your eagerness to open it and make you delete it immediately.
Solution 3: Delete first, ask questions later.
When in doubt about the origin of an e-mail, the best thing to do is delete it without previewing or opening it. However, some viruses, such as Klez, propagate by fishing in people's address books and sending themselves from any contact they find to another random contact. You can spread a virus just by having people in your address book, even if you don't actually e-mail them anything. They'll receive it from someone else in your address book, which really makes life confusing. Because of the proliferation of porn on the internet, e-mail viruses often tempt victims by using sexual filenames, such as nudes.exe. Don't fall for it.
Solution 4: Beware of virus hoaxes
E-mails warning you about viruses are almost always hoaxes. You may be tempted to believe them because you typically receive them from well-meaning friends, who received them from friends, etc. These e-mails themselves usually aren't viruses, but some have actually fallen into the hands of hackers who loaded them with viruses and forwarded them merrily on their way as a sick joke.
The proliferation of e-mails about virus hoaxes can become nearly as bad as a real virus. Think about it, if you obey an e-mail that tells you to forward it to everyone in your address book, and they THEY do it, and this goes on long enough, you could bring the internet to its knees. If you ever want to verify a virus warning, your anti-virus vendor may have a list of hoaxes on it website. It's in the business of providing the fixes, so it will know which viruses are real.
Solution 5: Beware of filename extensions
The extension of a filename is the three characters that come after the dot. Windows now defaults to hiding filename extensions, but it isn't a good idea. Just being able to see a suspicious extension and deleting the file before opening it can save you from a virus infection.
To see filename extensions in all your directory listings, on the Windows XP desktop, click Start button | Control Panels | Folder Options | View Tab. Clear the check box for Hide extensions of known file types. Click Apply | OK. System files will still be hidden, but you'll be able to see extensions for all the files you need to be concerned with. Viruses often live on files with these extensions - .vbs, .shs, .pif, .Ink - and they are almost never legitimately used for attachments.
Solution 6: Disable the .shs extension
One dangerous extension you can easily disable is .shs. Windows won't recognize it and will alert you before attempting to open an .shs file. The extension is usually just used for "scrap object" files created in Word and Excell when you highlight text and drag it to the desktop for pasting into other documents. If this isn't something you ever do, or you have Word and Excell 2000 or later, which allow you to have 12 items on the Clipboard, click the Start button | Control Panel | Folder Options | File Types tab. Under Registered file types, scroll down and highlight the SHS extension. Click Delete | Yes | Apply | OK.
Solution 7: Dealing with double extensions
When you turn on your extensions in Windows, you'll be able to detect viruses that piggy-back themselves onto innocent looking files with a double extension, such as happybirthday.doc.exe. NEVER trust a file with a double extension - it goes against Nature.
Solution 8: Beware of unknown .exe files
A virus is a program that must be executed to do its dirty work, so it may have an .exe extension. Unfortunately, this is the same extension used by legitimate program files. So, don't panic if you find files named Word.exe or Excel.exe on your system - they're your Microsoft software. Just don't EVER open any file with an .exe extension if you don't know what the file's purpose is.
Solution 9: Watch out for icons
Viruses in attachment files have been known to assume the shape of familiar looking icons of text or picture files, like the wolf in the hen house. If you recieve an unexpected attachment, don't open it without first running it through your anti-virus software.
Solution 10: Don't download from public newgroups
What better place for a hacker to lurk and stick his virus than in the middle of a crowd? Sooner or later, someone's bound to download it and get the virus going. Don't download files and programs from newsgroups or bulletin boards, or open attachments sent from strangers in chatrooms ("Let's exchange pictures!") without first scanning with your anti-virus software.
Solution 11: Avoid bootleg software
This may seem like a no brainer, but sometimes that tiny price tag on a popular but expensive package can be too good to resist. Resist it! Likewise, be careful about accepting application software from others. You don't know where it's been, and what may have started out as a perfectly clean package could have become infected during installation on someone else's infected computer.
Solution 12: Protect macros in MS Word, Excel, and Powerpoint
A common type of virus uses macros. Macros are sets of stored commands that users can save as shortcuts to perform long functions in just a few keystrokes. A macro virus may perform such mischief as changing file types from text files or spreadsheets into templates, locking up keyboards, and deleting files. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint come with macro virus protection. To make sure yours is activated, open each application, then click Tools menu | Macro | Security. On the Security Level tab, make sure Medium or High is selected. Clcik OK. If you are already infected with a macro virus, you may find that the steps of this procedure are unavailable becasue the virus has disabled them. In that event, run a virus scan on your system to see if your anti-virus software can kill the virus.
Solution 13: Use passwords
If you share your computer, it's a good idea to assign everyone a password. Passwords should be a combination of letters and numbers no less than eight characters long, and preferably nonsensical. Never write passwords and stick them anywhere near the computer. To assign passwords in Windows XP, click the Start button | Control Panel | User Accounts. Follow the prompts to assign/change passwords.
Solution 14: Update application software
Microsoft constantly issues patches for the security holes in its operating system and applications software. however, don't be lulled into complacency if you have Windows Update automatically checking things for you. Update checks for patches to repair bugs in the operating system, not for security problems.
To get the latest security hotfixes (as Microsoft calls them), visit www.microsoft.com and look for hotfixes for all your Microsoft software, particularly Outlook and Outlook Express.
Microsoft also has a free downloadable package called Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA) that scans your system for missing hotfixes. It works with Windows 2000 and XP Home and Professional only. It doesn't support Windows 95, 98, or ME.
To download the MBSA, go to the TechNet section of the Microsoft Website. Be warned that the information is written in techie language, so you may find it daunting.
Last Words:
Now that you know some ways for avoiding and dealing with viruses, let's wrap things up with some solution you've probably heard before but have ignored.
- Back up your files regularly - If a virus crashes your sytem, you'll feel much better if you've got backup copies of all your important files. Make the backup copies on a media that's separate from the computer, such as on diskettes, CDs, or zip disks. Scan them for viruses before you put them away to make sure they aren't infected. If they are, they'll do you no good if you ever have to use them because they will just transmit the virus right back onto your computer.
- Make a boot disk - Create an emergency boot diskette before you have a problem so you can start your computer after a serious security problem To make a boot diskette with Windows XP, put a blank floppy disk in the drive. Open My Computer, then right click the floppy drive. Click Format. Under Format options, click Create an MS-DOS startup disk. Click Start. Keep the disk in a safe place. With luck, you'll never need to use it.
- Turn off you computer - DSL and cable connections that are "always on" may be convenient, but you should always turn off your computer when its not in use. Hackers can't get to a machine that's powered off.
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