The truth about menopause: Debunking the myths for a happier, healthier, more satisfying life

"Just like all girls go through adolescence, all women go through menopause. It's a natural phase of life that has sadly been stigmatized as an illness," says Dr. Vivian Diller, a psychologist and author of FACE IT: What Women Really Feel As Their Looks Change. "Fortunately perceptions of menopause are changing and women are more eager to empower themselves with the facts that can help them talk more comfortably about and live more confidently through this life stage. And Poise.com is one resource that is available to help women separate the menopause myths from the facts."



Myth: Menopause is to blame for all mid-life changes that occur in a woman's body.



Fact: Many factors, including one's overall lifestyle and health, can influence changes in a woman's body. As they age, women may experience weight gain, vision and hearing reduction or develop facial wrinkles - all of which cannot be attributed to menopause.



Myth: When it comes to life's changes, women just have to tough it out.



Fact: From medication to non-medicinal products, there are many options available to help women. The Poise brand offers a line of award-winning feminine wellness products that help address life's changes. The Poise brand has products for daily freshness, hot flash comfort, and intimacy. Visit www.Poise.com to learn more.



Myth: Forgetfulness is just a part of menopause. -



Fact: Forgetfulness is a symptom of menopause, but it's not one that impacts memory in the long-term. While there is some evidence that fluctuating estrogen may influence the part of the brain that affects sleep, moods and memory, it's more likely that menopause impacts a woman's ability to concentrate, absorb and recall information.



Myth: Light bladder leakage is inevitable during menopause.



Fact: During menopause, a decline in estrogen levels may weaken the pelvic floor muscles that support bladder control, contributing to LBL (light bladder leakage). Though not all menopausal women experience LBL, it is a common condition that one-in-three women will ultimately face.



Myth: Menopause signals the end of a woman's sex life.



Fact: Many menopausal women report enjoying sex every bit as much as and sometimes more than their younger counterparts. But vaginal dryness can be one not so glorious side effect of this lifestage that can negatively impact women's intimate experiences. Fortunately lubricants can provide some relief; and since sexual health is important at any age, women who experience significant vaginal dryness or loss of libido during menopause should discuss that change with their doctors.

Four ways to be more green at home

It doesn't take much effort to run your household in a more eco-friendly way. You might even be surprised by how much money you can save.



"A small change can make a big difference," says Charles Valinotti, senior vice president of an insurance company which recently implemented a series of small environmental changes and the savings are adding up. "These are changes anyone could make in their own home. We just did it on a larger scale."



Here are four simple green changes inspired by the company that could benefit any homeowner:



1. Recycle - and not just the obvious stuff.

Chances are, you're already recycling glass bottles and aluminum cans. But why stop there? Consider recycling before you throw anything away. You might also consider collecting aluminum cans and bringing them to your local recycling facility where you may get some cash for your efforts.



One business recycles electrical wire, cabinets, shelving, scrap metals and light fixtures. In two years, not only did the company collect $4,000 for non-traditional recyclables, it also avoided fees for disposing of them.



2. Switch to high-efficiency lighting.

For years we've heard that high-efficiency lighting is the way to go. But did you know the magnitude of difference this one change could make? Experts report that each compact florescent light bulb can save up to $40 in energy costs over its lifetime.



Another company's site converted from halogen to fluorescent light fixtures in its parking garage. This one change is saving 378,554 kilowatt hours per year in electrical usage, totaling $26,575 in annual utility expense.



3. When it's not in use, turn it off.

Moms all over the world can be heard reminding their brood, "Turn the lights off!" While there's no doubt it makes sense to turn off lights, some may question when and if a computer should be turned off since it takes a bit more energy to power up than to leave it running.



The experts report that for energy savings and convenience, consider turning off your monitor if you aren't going to use your computer for more than 20 minutes. Turn off your computer if you're not going to use it in the next two hours.



A lot of people don't always shut down their computers at the end of the day. Last year, the company began automatic shutdowns at 9 p.m. local time - saving about $55,000 in energy costs each year. The system gives a prompt 60 minutes prior to the automatic shutdown, allowing employees who are actively working to bypass the shut-off.



4. Paper - who needs it?

Valinotti suggests that taking baby steps toward a paperless existence can be natural and painless. For example, many homeowners already do their banking online - so why not also switch to paperless bank statements? Many utilities, credit card companies and municipalities also offer online billing.



By just moving a portion of its monthly reports online, the company saves 2.5 reams of paper and $11 per day, totaling $2,000 in savings last year.



As you can see, just a few small changes can help you go green - and help you build financial strength as well.

How to think like a buyer when getting your property ready to sell

The house is finally done after a whole lot of "blood, sweat and tears", and now it's time to get your wholesale flip "retail buyer ready". Real estate investors all have the same question at this point; how can I make my house stand out from the other homes for sale in the neighborhood? The answer is quite simple. Your home has to make a better first impression than your competition. Your potential buyer has to want to come inside from the moment they drive up to the house. So how do you do that?



Learn to think like a buyer!



Curb Appeal Is Everything!



Pay special attention to the landscaping and keep the grass cut and trimmed while your house is for sale. If you are selling during the summer months, extra watering may be needed to keep the lawn in tip top shape.



Give your yard a manicured look. It will really pay off to spend a few dollars to have the plants neatly trimmed, the planting beds weeded, and fresh mulch put down. A great touch is to put brightly colored flowers near the front of the house. You might even want to add a couple of pots of flowers at or near the front door well give it an extra touch. Be sure to pick plants that don't need daily watering.



All your windows should be sparkling clean on the exterior as well as the interior.



Take a good look at your front door. Does it need a fresh coat of paint or maybe just a good cleaning?



Spend a few dollars and replace your old mailbox, then add some attractive house numbers. These simple things will give your house a polished look.



Make sure your deck or patio in the back yard is neat and inviting. You want your buyers to be able to imagine entertaining or just relaxing in this space at the end of the day. A power washer can be rented for about $40-$50 dollars if heavy duty cleaning is needed. Go ahead and power-wash any siding on your house at the same time.



Store all garden equipment and trash containers out of sight.



Look at the interior of the house through "buyer's eyes"



Have a professional do a thorough house cleaning when the house is finished, paying special attention to the kitchen and the bathrooms. Remember these are the rooms that sell houses!



Make sure all floors have been cleaned and are in good condition. This also applies to any carpet that hasn't been replaced.



Give the house the "sniff test". Does it smell good?



Buyers don't want to have to paint before moving in, so be sure the house is painted in neutral colors. Painting the trim a crisp white makes the home look modern and inviting.



Home staging always pays big dividends! Consider doing some simple home staging so that prospective buyers can imagine what the home will look like with furniture in it.



Does the basement have a "musty" smell? Figure out what the problem is and correct it.



Does everything in the house function properly? Make sure all the light bulbs are working, and all of the cabinet handles and doorknobs are securely attached. Walk through the house and give it the same scrutiny that a buyer will, double checking the smallest details in the home.



Be sure to change your filters. If the furnace or AC filter hasn't been replaced during the rehab, clean or replace it.



Author: Sharon Vornholt



Sharon's Website: http://LouisvilleGalsRealEstateBlog.com

Style is not lost when it comes to choosing solid oak furniture

There is a school of thought amongst consumers that solid oak furniture offers less in the way of style than furniture made of the lighter woods available. It's an idea that is based on the notion that solid wood is thick, hard and heavy, like slabs, and are fixed together to make weighty chests of drawers, immovable wardrobes and coffee tables that require almost the whole family to lift. This, of course, is not true.



It is true that solid furniture is generally heavier than something like solid pine, which is somewhat less weighty than its oak counterpart. Solid wood is less susceptible to damage from the elements, with most needing only to be treated from time to time to protect it from damp or heat. Furniture that is not solid can see its veneer covering lift as dampness gets underneath, while cracking and warping from heat are also types of damage that can destroy the look of the piece. Of course, chipping is always possible in both solid and veneer furniture, but in solid furniture the same wood is exposed, making simple repairs possible.



But it's not just about damage, it's also about the furniture styles and ranges that are available in solid oak. There is no shortage of quality solid oak ranges about, with Hereford Oak furniture collections a leader amongst the list that includes Aquarius Oak, Cambridge Oak, Lyon Oak and Vancouver Oak, amongst many. These ranges comprise a variety of furniture pieces that are distinctive because of the design, color and finish each have. From oak wardrobes and oak dining tables to elaborately carved oak cabinets and oak kitchen units, these pieces can match the interior decor of any room or home.



Style is imperative for any product in a competitive industry, and the furniture industry is no different. In fact, the more charismatic the design, and more striking the visual effect of the furniture piece, the more likely it is to sell. That's why the variety of furniture designs is vast, and it is no less the fact for solid furniture with finishes and effects used to beautify the pieces.



Oak is an ideal wood when it comes to staining, with colors ranging from a refreshing harvest gold to a more earthy dark red hue. A rustic finish allows for the natural grain and knot structure of the solid piece to appear aged, giving the piece an almost vintage look. However, a more distressed look, such as those mimicking steel brushed or chipped surfaces, is also attractive as it lends a sense of worn legacy.



Such effects and designs are not limited to tables for the dining room or living room, but extend to all products to allow everyone to have the style they wish in any room in the home or office. Casual units, like bookcases, nests of tables, TV units and telephone and hall tables, range in size and finish. Even for the student or home office worker, desks are designed to suit their practical needs as well as the spatial restrictions of the room they are studying or working in.



Leading brand names, such as Hereford oak furniture, offer ranges that appeal to the complete spectrum of consumers, from those who like the contemporary styles to those who would rather the old-world, vintage affects. Even the minor details, like the type of handle on drawers or cabinet doors, are specifically tailored to complement the tones of the stained oak wood itself.



The stereotypical solid oak dining table, for example, can have a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from the square-cornered rectangular table to the oval model for four that extends to sit double that. The ability of extend in length might be a practical aspect of its design, but its style is never compromised, retaining the same finish seamlessly throughout.



It's a fact that solid does not have to mean boring. These examples show just how varied the design and appearance solid oak furniture can be. They are not cumbersome items to be avoided, or so bland that they fail to excite, but boast innovation and even elegance along with their reputation for durability and value.



By: Kathryn Dawson



http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7222.shtml

Top trends for a fall wardrobe update

Fashion experts from two of the Art Institutes schools share six of the top trends for fall and how you can use them to make the most of the pieces already in your closet.



Animal print - "Look at any magazine and you're going to see animal print," says Stefani Bay, fashion instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago. She says everything is in animal print. Whether black and white or a crazy color, this trend can be found on garments, shoes, bags and scarves. According to Bay, adding an animal print piece to any outfit in your closet will make you look "of the moment."



Tweed - "Tweeds are a very important fashion story this fall," says Emil DeJohn, fashion instructor at The Art Institute of Philadelphia. Each year a variety of tweeds grace the runways of Fashion Week, but this year they are stealing the spotlight, especially in black and white versions of houndstooth, Donegal tweed, and herringbone.



"A tweed jacket is the perfect thing over something old," says Bay, especially when it's a colorful tweed over a colorful outfit. Other options include tweed scarves and even handbags.



Leather - "When isn't leather right?" asks Bay. DeJohn agrees adding whether it's trim, collar and cuff, or the entire jacket, leather is something every woman should have in her closet this fall. You can find this incredibly versatile textile in jeans, blouses and accents, but according to Bay, the big story for leather is the motorcycle jacket. You can find motorcycle jackets in all price points, made from leather, faux leather, vinyl or patent leather. Added to your closet it will make anything look more current.



Black and white - A perennial favorite of chic women the world over, black and white is a big trend for fall, especially when paired with a bright shocking color, says DeJohn. The perfect way to jazz up black and white is with a punch of the season's soft orange, citrus green, bright royal blue, gold or royal purple. "You can put anything black and white over a white shirt to look crisp and professional," says Bay. You can also do the same with a black T-shirt or add a punch of black and white with a handbag.



Dresses - "Dresses made a major comeback. Every designer had a number of dresses in their collection," says DeJohn. Dresses are easy, convenient and versatile. "They take you from day to evening," says Bay. She recommends wearing a favorite dress with a motorcycle jacket and boots for day, and chandelier earrings and heels for evening. She cautions that the most important thing with dresses is fit. And if you have an old dress with a great pattern or color, just add a motorcycle jacket to give it new life.



Hats and scarves - According to DeJohn, hats are also making a comeback. He says they are an easy and practical update to any outfit, with a variety to suit all face shapes. Bay says scarves are another trend in fall accessories. For daytime, she recommends wearing a long woven scarf wrapped around multiple times, and for evening add a beaded scarf to a black dress.

Light blocking curtains

Light blocking curtains, sometimes known as blackout curtains or lined blackout curtains, can be a very appealing and functional interior design touch. Once you understand the main elements involved in choosing your light blocking curtains, you'll be able to successfully install and utilize them to their maximum effectiveness.



Take Measurements



Blackout curtain drapes or blackout window curtains come from the factory in many different sizes, shapes and styles. Since the main purpose of these curtains is to perform the function of blocking out daylight, it's essential to take accurate measurements around all of the windows and glass doors in which you intend to hang them. You need to always measure a little wider and lower so that the drapes extend past the corners, bottoms, and sides of the glass where all possible outdoor light can come in.



Are they Dark Enough?



Blackout curtains come in several colors. But they're all usually dark enough to serve the purpose of blocking the light out of your home, apartment or condominium. If you're buying them because you want to be able to sleep comfortably during the day when the sun's bright, then you should carefully choose the darkest color you can find, as this will successfully block out more sunlight than lighter versions. But if all you want to do is block out the often blinding glare of the sun that's coming into your living room, you can go with a lighter color to match your interior decor.



Materials and Textures



Many of these lined blackout curtains are made of heavy-duty thermal material since thermal textures are more efficient at blocking out the strong, harsh rays of the sun. You have to understand that when this type of material gets dirty from dust and other airborne pollutants, you'll have to eventually clean them. This will often mean removing them and taking them over to the dry cleaner, as household steam cleaners usually aren't effective enough for a thorough cleaning and a full disinfecting procedure.



But the many benefits of these heavy, rugged textures also include keeping out the intense heat of the sun in summer time, saving on your air conditioning energy consumption costs, and helping prevent the sun from color fading of your carpets and furniture, especially the leather, velour and suede variety.



Price



You can find these blackout curtains selling for a wide variety of prices depending on which brand you buy and from which online or physical retail location you choose to purchase at. Wider, longer and heavier ones will always cost more. So will ones with custom designs and weaved patterns on them. These are the upscale, high end brands. Many homeowners are content to buy the least expensive, simplest designs and just color coordinate the curtains with their carpet, hardwood floors, wall coverings, and sofas. Well priced light blocking curtains are also going to be incredibly durable. They won't fade due to the strong sun hitting into them all day long, so they make an excellent household investment.



Versatility



Because light blocking curtains can be used in so many home window applications, they have become very popular over the years since they first came out. Blackout window curtains can be used instead of ordinary blinds to block out much more sunlight. They're certainly ten times better than even the darkest standard curtains. And these light blocking curtains can be installed over either windows that rise vertically or over ones that roll inward towards the room. They can also be used on sliding glass doors that lead to patios, porches and decks.



By: Alfred Oliver

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7244.shtml

Details on carpet stain removal

Carpet stain removal can be a daunting task. It should also be done with much care and precaution to prevent damage on the carpet. While using the vacuum cleaner will do fine, it will only remove the dirt. Stains are different, thus, they should be treated differently.



Regardless of the approach employed in removing the stains, it is best to act immediately and quickly. If you wait in doing the cleaning, you risk ruining your carpet for good. Whether oil, wax, solid or liquid substances are spilled on the carpet, you need to grab a clean cloth to remove the solid substances or what can be removed from the stain.



Then you have to blot out as much of the stain as possible. If a liquid substance spilled the carpet, there might occur wicking. Wicking means that the liquid substances have pooled at the bottom of your carpet. Hence, it will weaken the fiber of your carpet, causing the stain to spread and resurface; and eventually, serious damage is done on your carpet.



To prevent wicking, you need to cover the area with a thick dry cloth, and weigh it down with thick books or something that is heavy. Leave it overnight and remove the stain as normal in the following day.



In the morning, when you are certain that no more liquid or staining material will come out, blot out the stain using a dampen cloth or sponge. Avoid scrubbing the carpet as it would weaken the fiber and cause the stain to spread to other areas.



Blotting the stain gently will remove the stain without causing further damage to the carpet. If the stain remains after blotting it with water, you may want to squirt mild dish washing liquid onto it to clean. Blot the stain gently and let it sit for an hour before you blot again with a cool damp sponge or cloth until the stain is totally removed.



There are many carpet stain removal products available in the market in case you do not like to use dishwashing liquid detergent. Commercial products designed for removing stains vary based on what types of stains on your carpet.



For them to be effective, you need to figure out what type of stains your carpet has. If it is greasy like oils for cooking, body, automotive or moisturizing, use grease-based stain removal products.



If the stains are acid-based like coffee or urine, your choices are oil-based or acid-based products. In oil-based, the stains are dissolved, while in acid-based, the chemical quality of the spots are changed in order to make them easy to remove.



If you are not certain on the type of stain your carpet has, choose the all-purpose type of carpet stain removal product.



In all your undertakings, it is best to test the carpet stain removal product in a corner of the carpet or in any out-of-the-way area of the carpet, lest, you may risk creating a faded spot that may look more hideous than the stain itself.



by Rudy Silva

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6257.shtml

Teaching kids to brush their teeth

Kids in general either hate brushing their teeth or they simply couldn't care less. However, it is important to teach your kids how to brush their teeth to avoid dental and other health problems. With a little patience, creativity, and a handy tool, you should be able to get your kids to brush their teeth in no time.



For preschoolers



It's relatively easy to teach preschoolers, as long as it's fun for them and is done through rhythm and rhyme. Let your kids know that there are germs that we can't see living on their teeth and it's important to get rid of them. You can even make a song about teeth brushing.



When teaching your kids how to brush their teeth, first show them the proper way to go about it. Once you have demonstrated the up and down, round and round process of brushing teeth, hand your kids their brushes and let them try. Use a safe kids' step stool to help them reach the sink. Choose one that is self-retracting so that when your kids are done using the sink, the step stool automatically retracts underneath the sink and out of adults' way. Once they are able to do the whole brushing process themselves, make the event and exciting and joyous one. Clap and cheer for your kids. Tell your other family members how good the kids were and have them cheer for the children as well. Have your kids show other family members how they too can brush their teeth.



Things to do:



• Show your kids how excited you are about brushing, and get even more excited when they brush.



• Make brushing a fun experience.



• Ask them to show you how well they can brush their teeth.



• Make it a point to show other family members how good the kids can brush their teeth.



For Grades K-3rd



Kids this age learn things through presentation and repetition. Offer your kids to watch you as you brush your teeth, explaining things as you go along. Come up with creative analogies: "plaques are invisible bugs that eat away at your teeth. The only way to get rid of them is to brush your teeth."



Things to do:



• Regularly offer your kids to watch yourself brushing.



• Be consistent with brushing times



• Come up with creative analogies or explanations about brushing teeth



Grades 4th-6th



At this age, there is no better way to effectively teach your kids to brush their teeth than to show them what happens when a person does not brush his/her teeth. Gather pictures of people's teeth the have serious decay. Or better, get pictures of people with rotten teeth. During your visits to the dentist, teach your kids about proper brushing by asking for pictures of people who do not brush their teeth and explaining to them, "This is what happens to people who do not brush their teeth."



You can also add that there are health risks when they do not brush their teeth. Some of these include gum diseases such as gingivitis (swollen or inflamed gums), periodontitis, gum infections, bone destruction, and tooth loss. It has even been found that gum disease is a likely risk factor for heart disease and stroke for adults.



Things to do:



• Ask your dentist to share stories, pictures and information of the hazards of not brushing teeth.



by: Dana Mulder



http://www.articlecity.com/articles/family/article_4225.shtml

Fall into great tabletop decorating ideas

(BPT) - Saying goodbye to summer doesn't have to be a sentimental ending when you consider it's also a beginning - the kick off to autumn and the holiday season. The promise of fall is in the air. It's a great time to dress up your home for fall entertaining; whether that means friends gathered around the television rooting for your favorite team or the ultimate traditional Thanksgiving feast.



"Decorating trends for this fall are really fun and functional," says visual merchandiser John Griffith. "Colors that evoke a sense of nostalgia and family are a really big part of the visual design message for autumn. Reds, golds and oranges are trending this fall. These hues are not only warm and comforting; they're reflective of the season."



Griffith and teammate Julie Robbins add their own unique spin on the latest trends to create seasonal design vignettes for Replacements, Ltd., the world's largest retailer of old and new china, crystal, silver and collectibles. Whether you are planning a casual family gathering or an elegant dinner party, Robbins suggests easy ways to mix in great fall colors. This can be as simple as adding a charger plate or colorful serving pieces.



"Using colored glass is fantastic way of infusing autumn colors to create a seasonal feel," says Robbins. "Amber colored glass is really popular this fall because the rich, warm color goes with so many patterns and designs. I'm big on the pressed vintage patterns; depression glass, coin glass and sandwich glass are all very lovely and nostalgic. We're actually mixing and matching patterns from historic American glassmakers including Federal, Indiana Glass and Fostoria on our tables. It looks great to mix designs which share the same colors or combine an array of colors within a place setting."



Metal serveware is another popular trend this fall.



"We're incorporating metal serveware into many of our displays because you can do so much with it from a design standpoint," says Griffith. "These are great accent pieces you can dress up or down, plus it is family- and football-season friendly. Metal serveware is also very functional. Once heated, the alloy retains warmth to keep food warmer longer or cooler if you chill these pieces. Plus it is easy to clean and doesn't have to be polished. We're using a lot of fun shapes, like leaf-shaped pieces and turkey platters."



Fall's bountiful harvest translates into the home this season. Robbins is using natural elements in her table designs that evoke a sense of the first Thanksgiving.



"I suggest filling vases, glasses or serving bowls with dried beans, acorns or even kernels of dried deer corn. Not only does this look pretty, you can also mix in candles or flowers and use these natural elements to hold those items in place."



Robbins adds apples, gourds, pumpkins and green pears are among fruits and vegetables you can use on your table or anywhere in your home to create a brilliant splash of color. She says you can find more decorating ideas at Replacements' YouTube channel and Facebook page.

How to get your offers accepted to buy properties

The biggest challenge facing most real estate investors is making acceptable offers, especially when buying properties is the basic foundation of real estate investing.



Unless you buy properties, you cannot make any money.



Here is how to make offers that get accepted.



The offer you make depends on the type of property you are buying.



1) Buying from motivated sellers



If you buy houses from motivated sellers, it is necessary to have the following pieces of information:



a) Market Value



Do your due diligence to find out conservatively how much the house would be worth in perfect condition. You must have this information before you can make any offer.



b) Mortgage balance



You must get this information before you can make an offer. A seller who is not willing to disclose this information is not motivated enough. Move on to a motivated seller.



The mortgage balance must allow you to buy the house and still leave you with a profit. It must allow you to make a profit and own it free and clear.



c) Repairs needed



It is possible to estimate repair costs with the information provided by the seller.



You must know how much you need to fix up the house before you can make an offer. Of course, I like to see the house and do my own repair estimates.



d) Asking price



If the owner is asking for too much money given the above 3 pieces of information, the dealmight never happen.



A good asking price must take into account the market value, mortgage balance and repairs. You can then make an offer based on the asking price. Make an offer if the mortgage balance allows you to make a profit.



Even though it is necessary to consider the seller's needs, no offer can be too low. If they are facing foreclosure, then they probably need some money to move, or their asking price might be just enough to get away from the property.



If the mortgage balance is too high compared to the value of the house, it does not make sense to make an offer. Move on to the next deal.



There is no bad offer, except the one you have not made. Always make the offers that make sense to you. You'll be surprised how many get accepted.



2) Buying foreclosed properties



The asking price and repairs are the only important considerations to make in this case. Banks selling these properties are willing to negotiate.



Most REOs are listed below market value. Depending on your exit strategy, if the numbers are close to making sense, by all means make an offer.



Lastly, remember to make your offer lower than the asking price.



by: Simon Macharia

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6984.shtml

Got an hour? Quick hints for updated kitchens and baths

(BPT) - Busy has become a way of life. Between work, household chores, time with family and friends, people often don't have time to complete that entire wish list of home updates. Luckily, there are several simple kitchen and bath projects that you can conquer in minimal time that deliver maximum style and functional impact. In fact, here are a few projects that can be completed in about an hour or less.



Raise the bar with a new shower rod



Bring the luxurious style of a hotel to your bath and increase shower space with a curved shower rod. Available in single- and double-rod designs, both offer the elegant look often seen in hotel baths while adding some extra elbow room to create a more enjoyable shower experience. If you're short on time, find one that can be installed without drilling holes - and removes easily, making it perfect for any shower, even if you're a renter. Finally, add decorative shower curtain rings and a new shower curtain to give your bath an instant makeover.



Style and storage makeover



Want to quickly enhance the look and functionality of your bathroom? Accessories, such as towel bars, hooks and shelves can be a quick and inexpensive solution. It's easy to eliminate bathroom pet peeves like towels on the floor and too many products in the shower with bath accessories that come in a variety of styles and finishes. If safety is a concern, there are a variety of accessories that incorporate the benefits of grab bars into their designs.



Turn boring into beautiful with a backsplash



If you wish you could have the beautiful tile backsplash seen in high-end kitchens, but aren't up for messing with mortar, you now have an alternative. Today, there are many easy-to-install wall tiles that offer an adhesive backing or simply adhere with double-sided tape or adhesive. Plus, they are available in a variety of faux tile, stone or metal designs to transform the look of your kitchen in no time.



Say hello to kitchen hardware



Is your kitchen cabinet hardware looking dingy or dated? This simple project can make a dramatic difference in your home's appearance. Look for new knobs and drawer pulls that are designed to match your existing faucets and fixtures in both style and finish. Whether you prefer modern or something with a more traditional look, there are many options available to extend your sense of design down to the details.



But don't stop with knobs and pulls - much like the bath, towel rings and hooks are the perfect solution for managing dish towels that are often carelessly strewn about countertops. Establish a special spot for this kitchen necessity by mounting hooks, towel rings or towel bars on the side of an upper cabinet, the end of the island or in another kitchen work space.



Take an hour or two and try some of these quick and easy DIY projects for yourself. You may be surprised as to how much you can accomplish in such a short period of time!

Can internet marketing be a long term business?

Here is the basic, honest, truth: most of the people get into Internet Marketing because they are convinced it is an easy way to earn quick money. Their approach is to make a fast website, put up some advertising and a few affiliate links and then sit back and watch while they earn real cash. There are a large amount of individuals who do this and also earn lots of money on the internet. But what if you want more than some extra or even quick cash (quick cash, naturally being a misnomer)? Can Internet Marketing really be leveraged to produce a worthwhile and long term career?



The quick and dirty answer is that yes, you are able to make Internet Marketing your long term and sustainable career. You only need to take on the project properly. The procedures and programs you use to build something to earn fast money are not all that different than the methods and systems you will use to build long term profits. So what would you do if you need to develop a sustainable career on the internet?



It is very important that the first thing you do, in order to earn long term money online, is accept the fact that you are going to have to do real work. You will have to do actual and real work on a daily basis and you will have days when you feel fantastic about what you do and days when you wish you could find something else to take on. This causes it to be just about like every other occupation that is out there. If you want to produce lasting cash flow by working lots right now and not at all later on then you are going to be in for a rude awakening in a little while. So be ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work.



There are a few ventures that lend themselves much better to a long term career than others will. Affiliate marketing, to use one example, is a great task for someone who wants to earn money on a part time basis or to supplement your already existent income. Is it truly possible to earn a full time income in this manner? You could if you pick out only the right products and then work like crazy to promote them. A far better approach, nevertheless, is to create your own products or websites and then promote those. This gives you full control over the projects you take on and how you accomplish them. And you will end up more likely to stick with it in the long run. If you want to give a service on the web this works much the same way. Writers, for example, need to create websites for themselves and create portfolios that they can point to as examples of their work.



Finally, perhaps the most significant thing that you need to recognize is that, when you want to build a long term and reliable income on the internet, you need to truly dedicate yourself to your task. You might have fun and feel rewarded by your efforts but first you should tell yourself "yes, I really want to do this." Making a half hearted effort is not about to get you anywhere.



by: Tanaka Ara



http://www.articlecity.com/articles/marketing/article_6729.shtml

Proper footwear for weekend warriors

Being tied to a desk all day combined with overdoing sports activities on the weekend has landed many a participant on the sidelines. Now experts say those who play a hard game of sports once a week, but are inactive the other six days, are even more at fault for the injuries that plague them.

"In addition to failing to train sufficiently for the sports they participate in, many weekend warriors also fail to select the proper footwear," says Ryan Robinson, a Canadian Certified Pedorthist and president of the Pedorthic Association of Canada. "Not wearing the correct footwear can cause problems ranging from minor discomfort such as blisters, corns and calluses to more serious conditions including repetitive stress injuries to the joints and muscles."

Robinson cautions that one pair of running shoes may not serve for all sports. Joggers should wear running shoes which are specifically designed to absorb shock and propel them forward. However, running shoes are not appropriate for a game of basketball, which requires footwear to withstand side to side motions to protect against injury. Choosing footwear appropriate to your sport reduces the risks of injury and helps you play smart.

Equally important to wearing activity-specific footwear is replacing shoes at the end of their lifespan, often something weekend warriors neglect to do. The cushioning and supportive materials in running shoes break down over time, even if they're not being used, leaving the wearer without the support they require. Depending on the use, running shoes typically have a shelf lifespan of 600-700 kilometers, or around 12 months. If you are a distance runner, however, you will need to replace your running shoes more frequently than that.

As with all footwear, athletic shoes must fit properly. Shoes that are too long, too short or too wide can affect the function of the foot. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a recreational athlete, get your athletic footwear professionally fitted by foot expert, such as a Canadian Certified Pedorthist. This simple step will help keep you off the sidelines and in the game.

More information on reducing sports-related foot injuries can be found online at www.pedorthic.ca/injury-prevention

What's your 'TV persona'? Picking the set that's right for you

With so many options available, how do you choose the TV that fits your needs, personal interests and living space? Often, viewers' personalities and habits say a lot about what type of TV is best suited for their lives. You can help refine your search for the right TV by identifying your "TV persona."

The TV experts offer some insight into five TV-watching personality types, and some tips for choosing a product that matches your personality:

1. The Videophile

A nice picture and decent sound isn't going to do it for the videophile. These technological perfectionists pay close attention to details and optimal viewing conditions. Videophiles want the best picture and audio quality possible, including a full backlit LED array that delivers a brighter, smoother, cleaner picture. They want a refresh rate that virtually eliminates motion blur and delivers crystal clear images. Like a new car they're most likely to show-off their shiny "rims," or supplementary sound system, too - at least a soundbar, but most often a powerful home theater system that blows the windows out of any living room.

2. The Family Man/Woman

This consumer desires a high-end experience at an affordable price. Other monetary considerations - like mortgages, day care costs and family vacations - inspire them to seek the most bang for their buck when it comes to their TVs. They also need to please multiple viewers with content that pleases all ages - from kids that watch cartoons to teenagers that want to get their video "game on" and parents that just want to kick back and enjoy a movie. They need a TV with options, one that offers 3D and Internet-connected "Smart TV," like LG's LM6700. With six pairs of theater-like, flicker-free 3D glasses that require no batteries or recharging, outfitting the entire family is easy and inexpensive. Built-in Smart TV capability affords simple access to limitless content, including movies, TV shows, songs, live games, apps and personal video.

3. The Bachelor/Sports Fan

With fewer responsibilities, the single-person viewer often has a little bit more free cash and doesn't mind spending a little extra on a big purchase. These viewers seek step-up- picture quality and faster refresh rates that helps them to view sports, video games and high-speed action with less motion blur. They're also not afraid to splurge on all the extras, such as Smart TV, 3D functionality and built-in Wi-Fi and demand a sleek, aesthetically pleasing package that looks high end.

4. The Internet Junkie/Multitasker

Google TV will win the heart of this type of consumer, who enjoys Web surfing for information and uses a variety of streaming services. These technology devotees demand a TV that offers a dual-core processor that provides improved streaming and picture quality when streaming online content or browsing the Web with its Google Chrome browser. They like familiarity and want the same user experience on their phones, tablets and now their TV. They also crave the kind of user-friendly navigation capabilities provided by LG's gesture-based Magic Remote with Qwerty keyboard. Like an air mouse, it has point/click, a scrolling wheel and the ease of a keyboard, not to mention voice recognition, overall a familiar experience for computer lovers.

5. The Recent Grad/First-timer

These consumers have just finished college, started their first professional job and are looking for just the basics for their first home. A standard LCD or plasma TV can give them the biggest screen for less money. Bells and whistles and aesthetics take a back seat to solid picture quality.

With a little research and a firm understanding of your TV persona, you can find the right television to fit your needs, budget and lifestyle.

Online Coupons - Save money when you shop

If you think about cutting back on your expenses when you are shopping, consider online coupons which can help you save a considerable amount of money.



When I heard free coupons, I thought of the good old days when we used to cut them out of the newspapers or magazines and take them to the stores to cut back a few bucks. But in the recent times, free coupons usually refers to the Internet coupon codes that are to be used while shopping at online stores. Online coupons work the same way as the traditional paper ones. The coupons offered by websites are codes that help you get discounts on many items such as groceries, clothes, shoes, gadgets, jewelry and many other products. Some of these codes are numeric or alphabetic whereas others are alphanumeric.



You can purchase many items online and get good discounts with the help of these coupons. All you have to do is search for a website that offers free coupons to get discounts on a varied range of items. When you find such website, you can get all the great discounts offered by numerous online stores. Many of the discounts expire unexpectedly, so you should ensure that you are entering a coupon code that is valid at the time. You can find coupons at these websites along with the relevant information such as the actual discount available on products, the store where it can be redeemed and the date it expires.



Most of the websites directly link you to the website of the store when you click on the coupon. When you visit the online store through these websites, you automatically get a discount on the product you wish to purchase. You can click on as many coupons you like and check out the product on the website. The other kind of coupons are printable coupons that you can get printed from the computer and redeem the discount at an actual store, not the virtual one. You can take the coupon print to the store and save a considerable amount of money on each purchase.



Many online stores also give away free coupons as part of their brand marketing campaign. They want more and more people to visit their stores. Discount coupons, free coupons, freebies and giveaways are the incentives used by manufacturers to attract consumers towards their products. This way they get consumers to try out their products and beat the competition with their counterparts. Some companies give discounts on services as well.



In order to mark their presence over the Internet, all the major companies use many tactics to attract new costumers as well as hold on to the existing ones. The online printable coupons and free coupons are the easiest way to achieve this. The discounts offered by the companies draw people towards the free coupons that let them purchase many products at low prices. If you really want to benefit from the great discounts that are offered by many online stores, you should visit these websites regularly to get free coupons and save some bucks on each purchase.



by: Gagan Singh

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_15910.shtml

Avoiding footwear fumbles when exercising or playing sports

"To get the most out of your workout or from playing a favorite sport, it's imperative to choose the right footwear for the type of exercise you'll engage in," says Dr. Matthew Garoufalis, a podiatrist and president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). "Improper footwear can lead to irritation and injury."



Foot or ankle sprains and fractures are the most common types of injuries related to exercise and footwear. The type of exercise or sport you prefer can influence the type of injury you could experience. In general for example, foot and ankle sprains and fractures are more common among football players, while basketball players may suffer more ankle sprains and runners experience stress fractures to feet or ankles.



APMA offers some guidance on how to avoid foot injury while exercising:



* Always warm up before exercise. Just as you stretch to warm up leg and arm muscles, your feet need to warm up gradually too.



* If you experience foot pain while exercising or engaging in physical activity, stop immediately. Foot pain is not normal and you shouldn't feel any when you exercise. If pain persists even after you stop your workout, see a podiatrist.



* Always wear supportive shoes that are appropriate for the type of physical activity you're engaging in.



Choosing the right footwear can help ensure you minimize the risk of injury and enjoy a more productive and comfortable workout. When choosing workout or sports footwear, keep these pointers in mind:



* Choose a running shoe based on your foot type: low/flat arch, normal arch or high arch. You can find a graphic of what each foot type looks like on the APMA website. If you have a low or no arch, you need a supportive shoe designed for stability and motion-control. Normal arched feet require a shoe with a balance of stability and cushioning to help absorb shock when your feet meet the ground. For people with high arches, a cushioned running shoe with a softer midsole and more flexibility compensates for the poor natural shock absorption of the higher arch.



* Also take into account the kind of activity you'll do. Runners need more arch support and cushioning to absorb impact. Basketball players require extra ankle support to prevent injury from side-to-side movement - which is why basketball shoes come up over the ankles.



* Don't go it alone when you're shopping for a workout or sports shoe. Go to a store that specializes in athletic footwear and ask to be professionally fitted before you buy. Shoes should fit comfortably as soon as you try them on; never assume you'll "break in" an uncomfortable athletic shoe. Shop toward the end of the day, when feet are at their largest due to normal daily swelling.



* Whatever your exercise or sport of choice, your athletic shoes should offer plenty of support in the front and back.



Finally, when athletic shoes begin to show signs of wearing out, it's time to replace them. Examine the tread, especially around mid-sole. Generally, you should replace athletic shoes every year, and running shoes every 300 to 400 miles.



To learn more about foot health, or to find a podiatrist in your area, visit www.apma.org.

Can't read it, don't feed it: Why wild bird-lovers should choose top-of-the-crop natural feed

(BPT) - Have you ever wondered what's in one of your favorite packaged foods, grabbed the box from your pantry, read the ingredients list ... and realized you still didn't know what you were eating? The ingredients in some processed foods can read like a chemist's shopping list. Now imagine if your backyard birds could read. What would they say about the ingredients in the food you feed them?



A growing number of Americans are choosing natural foods for their pets; nearly a third say they prefer natural products, according to PetFoodIndustry.com. People who feed wild birds care about them just as much as their four-legged pets and want to know they're feeding their backyard birds the most natural and nutritious options available. It's hard to feel that confidence when reading the mystifying ingredient list on the feed bag makes you feel like a bird brain.



The wild bird experts at Cole's Wild Bird Products Co. offer some tips for ensuring you're feeding your feathered friends a healthy, natural diet that they'll appreciate:



* Avoid seed blends that are full of cheap fillers, like oats and red milo. Fillers not only lack nutritional value, birds will kick them right out of the feeder. Select natural feed comprised of top-of-the-crop seeds and pass by seed coated with chemicals and mineral oil.



* Take note of ingredients you can't read, often it's an indication the ingredient is a synthetic or lab engineered. Ingredients like Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex and Thiamine Mononitrate aren't found in natural food, they're man-made versions of vitamins. Since wild birds normally get all their vitamins and nutrients from natural sources, adding a synthetic version is questionable at best. The rule of thumb for buying all natural is if you can't read it, don't feed it!



* Focus on serving feed with an ingredient list you can read and understand. For example, Cole's Sunflower Meats contains nothing but shelled sunflower seeds. Easy, right? It's a favorite feed to a wide range of backyard birds, too.



* Either get to know the types of birds visiting your feeder and research feed they prefer, or buy feed from a reputable company who has already done that work for you. Cole's offers select natural seed choices developed and based on factual research about what birds really eat. Feed is specifically formulated to attract certain species of birds as well as the largest number of birds, too. When you know and serve what your backyard birds prefer, you'll keep them coming back to your feeders.



* Feel free to supplement seed and feed with natural food you already have at home. For example, jays and woodpeckers love raw peanuts, while mockingbirds and orioles love fruit, and chickadees, blue jays and cardinals savor suet. Soak raisins and currants in water overnight, then place them on a table feeder, or purchase blends with a dried fruit and nut mixture, like Nutberry Suet Blend. To attract orioles and tanagers, skewer halved oranges onto a spike near your feeders for a special treat.



* Don't forget the importance of the right type of feeder. Dish and bowl feeders are great for serving fruits, while most birds will appreciate a terrific tube feeder for seeds both large and small. Traditional tube feeders are great all-purpose feeders, and a must-have for backyard bird feeding.



* Buy feed from companies who specialize in wild bird food. Some companies offer bird feed as a side product to their main business of pet products or grass seed. Cole's exclusively produces and sells products for feeding backyard birds.



To learn more about wild bird feeding and all-natural feed options with ingredient lists even birds could understand, visit www.coleswildbird.com.

How to maximize the flavor and nutrition of snack mixes

When deciding between your favorite snacks, there's no need to sacrifice flavors and seasonings often reserved for main course dishes. Instead, look to combine different food groups to create unique, delicious snack mixes. A mix can not only pack a lot of flavor but also can be full of nutrient-rich vitamins and whole grains.



The perfect snack mix combines flavors, textures, seasonings and tastes.



* Whole grain crackers add heartiness to your snack leaving you deliciously satisfied.



* Adding vegetables such as leafy greens adds vitamins and minerals - a perfect low-calorie addition.



* For extra crunch, popcorn or nuts are flavorful ingredients to add to your mix for a wholesome, appetizing snack.



Chef Rocco DiSpirito, known for his best-selling healthy comfort foods series Now Eat This!, created Brown Rice Triscuit Sea Salt & Black Pepper Crumbled Snack Mix, a tasty mix of popcorn, kale and the new Brown Rice Triscuit, which is baked with 100 percent whole grain brown rice. This snack mix is one great way to reap the benefits of whole grains in a distinctive new way.



Brown Rice Triscuit Sea Salt & Black Pepper Crumbled Snack Mix



Yield: 9 servings, about 1 cup each



Prep time: about 10 minutes



Processing time: about 10 minutes



Ingredients:



Olive oil cooking spray



3 tablespoons popping corn kernels



1/8 teaspoon each salt and crushed red pepper flakes



1 bunch of Tuscan kale (about 15 leaves), or 4 loosely packed cups of leaves only (remove tough center stem with knife or kitchen shears)



20 Brown Rice Triscuit Sea Salt & Black Pepper Crackers, quartered



Directions:



1. Spray a medium-sized saucepot with 1 second of cooking spray; add the popcorn kernels and place over medium high heat. Cook, covered, shaking occasionally until the kernels have popped, about 2 minutes. Turn off heat; place popcorn in large bowl and season with salt and crushed red pepper flakes.



2. Lay the kale out in batches in single layer on microwave-safe plates. Spray each plate with 1 second of cooking spray and microwave on high for 1 minute. Flip the leaves, then microwave on high until the leaves are dried and crisp, about 1 minute. Continue microwaving, if needed, turning every minute until crisp. Repeat with remaining kale.



3. Break the kale crisps into bite-size pieces. Toss with the crackers and popcorn and serve.



Nutrition Information Per Serving: 80 calories, 2g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate, 2g dietary fiber, 0g sugars, 2g protein

Motivational Quote of the day by Carol Burnett

When you have a dream, you've got to grab it and never let go.



-Carol Burnett

10 tips to help you save home energy

Before you spend money on the latest energy-efficient gizmo that's supposed to save you money let's look at some energy saving ideas that will really help you save home energy. The strategies that we will look at maximize the effort you put in and help reduce your home energy consumption.



First sit down and think about all the different ways your family uses energy around the house. Now put an approximate type and cost of energy used. You may have trouble breaking down the cost but try to do it. Now all you have to do is find ways to save on your resources at the same time cut your costs. You may have to think creatively but it can be done.



So here are some tips to get you started:



- Turn the lights off when you're not using them. This is really simple and easy to do. Do you really need your bedroom light on when you're in the living room? Do you leave lights on when you leave the house? Do you even need more than one light on in a room for what you are doing? Believe it or not it makes a big difference.



- Turn all electronics and other appliances off when you're not using them. No one can do everything at the same time. Can you really listen to a radio watch television and use your computer all at the same time?



- Set your thermostat down a couple of degrees in winter or up in summer, to conserve energy. And dress appropriately indoors for the time of year it is. For instance in winter, put on a sweater or some extra clothing, or may snuggle under a blanket to stay warm. In the summer, wear less and stay cooler naturally.



- Only turn an appliance on when you have a full load. This is true especially for the washing machine, dryer and even the dishwasher. It is amazing how much extra energy is used doing multiple small loads in comparison to one full load.



- Do regular maintenance on your appliances. Keeping them clean means they don't have to work as hard. Changing filters reduces the energy needed to accomplish a task. Regular care will also mean any maintenance bills that you might come up against may well be cheaper.



- Be careful how you use your water. Like when brushing your teeth or washing your hands, use only the water you need. Don't let the water run the entire time. Also, try and use less water if you take a bath, or control your shower times.



- Simply let your hair air dry, instead of using a blow drier every day.



- Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees F.



Don't forget the bigger projects as well.



- Seal the cracks around your doors and windows. You are paying for your hot air that escapes through cracks all around your house. You need to make sure you are doing all you can to keep the warm air you're paying for inside your house.



- You also need to check your house's insulation. Though this has been done by many homeowners nevertheless you still need to do it before you pass it over. It is probably the biggest thing in reducing heating costs.



Now some of these things may seem trivial to you but let me assure you that even the small things add up over time. And really most of them you won't even notice the difference to your life except your bills.



These tips and suggestions will make your home more affordable, and take some strain off of our world's resources. Just think if all of us would just made a few of these changes to how we do things on a daily basis it would make a huge difference.



By: Dave McIntosh



http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7258.shtml