Everything You Need To Know About Bulk Cat5e Cable
by Jimmy Dunn
Cat5 cable is the original Ethernet cable, and includes four twisted pairs in a single jacket. The twisted pair design helps reduce interference from external sources and other pairs (also known as crosstalk). Its performance specifications were designed for use with up to 100Mbit/s networks in fact, the most common usage for Cat5 cable is 100BASE-TX Ethernet.
In 2001, Cat5e (or enhanced Cat5) was designed, with stricter specifications for performance and speed. The biggest difference between Cat5 and Cat5e is that Cat5e can be used with Gigabit networks, networks like 1000BASE-T that boast transfer speeds of up to 1000Mbit/s. Cat5e also has slightly modified wiring for even greater protection from far end crosstalk.
In general, Cat5 has been almost completely replaced by Cat5e. While you can still find Cat5 cable out there, you can often find Cat5e at almost the exact same price. You may not notice a difference in performance for a home network, but virtually all business settings will benefit from exclusively using Cat5e.
UTP or STP?
The "TP" in both STP and UTP stands for "Twisted Pair." As mentioned previously, Cat5 cables include 8 total wires, each twisted with another to create four twisted pairs. This balanced pairing is crucial in avoiding crosstalk and establishing a high signal-to-noise ratio even in interference-rich environments.
STP is Shielded Twisted Pair. Each pair in the cable is covered in a metal sheath, which provides protection against EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). The drawbacks to shielding are a heavier cable without the same level of flexibility as UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair). STP is also a slightly more expensive cable and all of its jacks and terminators are shielded to be effective, which can add up over long distances.
UTP has no additional shielding around its individual twisted pairs, and thus does not require that its terminators and jacks also be shielded. Additionally, it is a light, thin, and flexible cable. This means that it is easy to wire between walls and won't take up the space that you may need for additional wiring.
Conclusion
Unless you have specific needs, UTP Cat5e cable is the best solution for most of your networking needs. Not only is it reliable, fast, and easy to work with, it's also the cheapest LAN cable on the market.
For additional shielding, go ahead and pay the extra for STP but remember that the cable will have less flexibility and needs shielded counterparts when planning your networking.
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Tea: White Tea: India�s White Teas Compared To Ceylon White Teas
Tea: White Tea: India�s White Teas Compared To Ceylon White Teas
by Marcus Stout
White tea is quickly becoming one of the most popular teas in the world. Tea connoisseurs everywhere are scrambling to learn about the different varieties of white tea and sampling them like made. The vast majority of white tea is grown in China, with Japan being the second most popular place for growing white tea.
However, each year more and more white tea comes from India and Sri Lanka, making these the two fastest growing regions for the production of white tea. Many people are not familiar with white teas from these countries, though black tea from both Sri Lanka and India are very common. As time goes on, it�s certain that you�ll see more of these white teas become available.
Sri Lanka and Ceylon Tea
Ceylon is the colonial name for Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is the third largest tea producing area in the world, but is mostly known for its black teas. In fact, tea production is Sri Lanka�s largest employer, providing work for more than one million residents. Approximately 19% of the tea consumed in the world is Ceylon tea.
Tea is grown in Sri Lanka�s highlands over an area of about four thousand miles, and tea can be plucked all year long. White Ceylon tea is grown in the Nuwara Eliya region near Adam�s Peak, where the altitude is about 2200-2500 meters above sea level.
All Ceylon teas have a distinct flavor that is different from Indian and Asian teas. Ceylon is a very mild tea, and is often recommended for new tea drinkers since it has lots of flavor, but retains its mildness. When it comes to the Ceylon white teas, the color is very light with gold to copper color. You�ll taste a bit of honey and pine in a Ceylon white tea.
Ceylon white tea is harvested and rolled by hand. The leaves are dry and are allowed to wither in the sun. Because Ceylon white is only grown in a small area of the country, it is rare and highly prized. Because the tea is not mass produced, and because Sri Lanka ensures that tea farming can continue to be viable career for its citizens, Ceylon white tea is one of the most expensive white teas you can buy.
India and Darjeeling Tea
Darjeeling is a region in the northeastern part of India, in the foothills of the Himalayas, between Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan. Darjeeling is one of the most well known tea producing regions in the world, and Darjeeling tea is known for its very distinct flavor. Today the Darjeeling region boasts more than 80 tea gardens over 19,000 hectares. Tea production employs over 52,000 Nepalese people full time, with another 15,000 people employed part time during the plucking season.
Darjeeling teas are known as the �Champagne of Teas�, in part because of the distinct muscatel flavor. You�ll also find Darjeeling teas to have a bit of a flowery note and a significant astringency. It is the exact combination of the moist cool climate, the fertile soil, heavy rain and gradually sloping terrain that gives the Darjeeling tea a flavor that cannot be matched by tea gardens in other parts of the world.
If you�ve tried Darjeeling in black tea, and been disappointed, it�s likely because you bought a tea that was labeled Darjeeling, but was actually a mix of teas, including Darjeeling as part of the mixture. Darjeeling experts believe that each year about 10,000 pounds of Darjeeling tea is grown, but about 40,000 pounds of tea is labeled Darjeeling. So, it�s important to choose tea that is labeled 100% Darjeeling to ensure you get that distinct flavor.
Darjeeling white tea is far rarer than Darjeeling black teas. Darjeeling white tea is very mild and slightly sweet like other white teas. It brews to a pale golden color, and because it is less compact than many other teas in loose form, requires more tea leaves per cup. However, it still retains the astringency and muscatel flavor of Darjeeling black in a lighter flavor.
Many tea drinkers who find black Darjeeling a bit strong will likely love white Darjeeling because it is more flavorful than many other white teas yet is not as robust as black Darjeeling.
If you�re interested in sampling a Darjeeling white tea, Darjeeling White Tips is a great tea to start with. It�s very indicative of most good Darjeeling teas, with a light sweet note and a flavor that reminds you of muscatel and other white wine. If you�ve found other white teas nearly tasteless, you may be pleasantly surprised by the flavor in a Darjeeling.
Because such a large percentage of the world�s white tea is grown in China and Japan, people often overlook Indian and Ceylon teas. But, in fact, some of the most delicious white tea in the world is grown in these two areas. As you�re sampling the many variations of white tea out there in pursuit of your favorite, don�t forget Ceylon and Darjeeling. You�re sure to love them both.
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Blogging for Beginners - A Guide
Blogging for Beginners - A Guide
by Debbie Ray
Exactly what is a "blog"? A blog , shortened from "weblog", is basically an online journal where you can digitally put down your ideas, thoughts, opinions and practically anything that you want people to read. Blogging is very popular all over the world and basically there are no rules when it comes to blogging. Bloggers have the freedom to express themselves how ever way they want, and the best thing about blogging, is that most blogging sites are free.
Blogs can come in all different styles, formats and settings, depending on the users preferences. Many blogging sites, offer built in features such as hyperlinks, pictures, mp3's, videos, etc. Some bloggers choose to make their blogs more audio friendly, by using spoken word entries. This is called audio blogging. There are also video logs.
Blogging is really for everyone. Overall, it can be lots of fun, very simple and easy to do. Basically, a blog will contain these features at a minimum:
archive- list of older articles,
title- where you label your post,
body- the content of your post,
blogroll- other sites can be linked back to your blog,
comments- this allow readers to post comments on your blog.
Unlike other websites that are made up of numerous individual pages, blogs are usually made up of only a few templates making it easier for blog users to create new pages. This can be very helpful for beginners, since they can start blogging right away once they've set up their account. One of the appeals of blogging is that it creates a community of people sharing similar ideas, thoughts, and comments with each other.
The most popular blog type by far is the personal journal. This is the type that is normally used by first time bloggers. Individuals who want to document the daily struggle of their everyday lives, rants, poems, writings, ideas, and opinions find that blogging offers them a medium in which to express themselves.
Blogging is not just limited to personal usage. There are a lot of blogs that follow a theme such as: philosophy, mobile technology, sports, politics, social commentary, web design, pets, etc. These blogs focus on their specific themes. In this way blogging becomes a medium where people can share their knowledge and opinions about a variety of themes and topics.
There are a lot of other things you can do with a blog. Some bloggers use their blogs as a means to advertise and earn money. Some authors advertise their books or products on their blogs while other bloggers use their blogs to shed light on currents issues, news, family issues, personal thoughts and discoveries, events or catastrophes.
A lot of entrepreneurs benefit from blogging by promoting their products and businesses on their own blogs. With millions and millions of people logging onto the net each and everyday, blogging has become a lucrative move. Some bloggers who run online businesses promote their merchandise online. Others profit through advertisements placed on their blogs.
Blogs can also play an important part in education. Professors can use blogging to document the lessons that they have previously discussed and taught. This is one way students who missed class can easily catch up with their assignments.
Want to learn more about blogging in general or a topic in particular? Blogs varying in topics, themes, and set-ups, and can be found in blog directories. First time users who want to get an idea of what the blogging world is all about can browse through a number of blogs using these kinds of directories. In this way people can get an idea of what these blogging communities, and blogging in general, are all about.
Want to find out more about blogging? Go to Google and search for blogging directories. You'll get a list of a lot of blogging sites that are available on the net. In this way you can find exactly what you are looking for and are interested in. After that you can decide whether or not you want to enter the world of blogging to share yourself with the world.
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Running Antispyware
Running Antispyware
by Arvind Singh
While there is nothing complicated about installing antispyware programs, you must be alert to download its latest version including the most recent spyware detection signature files. Read the end user license agreement to know exactly what you are going to download.
Getting Antispyware packages installed in your system is easy enough, but you must be alert to download its latest version including the most recent spyware detection signature files.
Your number one concern while installing antispyware removal tools should be to read the end user license agreement to know exactly what you are agreeing to download. That done let's look at how to go about getting your antispyware and adware removal package to work.
Getting Started With Antispyware Software
There is nothing complicated about installing your antispyware programs. But what you need to remember is that the latest spyware detection signature files won't download automatically until you tell them to. So ensure that it is updated and also choose the option of automatic updates if available.
If your antispyware removal tool offers real-time protection and blocking of spyware, use it. There is always the chance, though, that the spyware might get into your system before it is detected. Start with the default settings, explore, and experiment with them. Make it a habit to run full scans on a regular basis. Schedule your antispyware software to remove Trojans say, once a week or every time you startup your system.
The next step is to make sense of your scan results. Antispyware software removal tools recognize spyware and their locations in processes in your system, tracking cookies, registry entries and shortcuts on your desktop or start menu. When there are running processes, it could imply active spyware in your memory. If you see registry entries and files, it is likely that spyware may have been lodged in your hard drive. Go through the details and analyze them. Tracking cookies can be harmless, but if tied to an IP, they can turn into spies that track your browsing habits, invading your privacy.
Taking Action On The Results
Some spyware or adware may be an integral part of some programs, games or utilities, which may not function if you remove the spyware and adware. If it is okay with you to keep this spyware and adware, and you feel that they are not threatening, retain them. Once the relevant spyware is removed run the scan again. In spite of all the precaution, you might still find traces of the spyware. Or you might find that it has reinstalled itself back into you computer. So reboot your machine and scan again. If you still find antispyware products, run the scan again with an alternate antispyware removal tool.
Regarding the alerts that come up during the real time protection, look for alerts that announce the presence of spyware, understand the implications and get rid of it.
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10 Unique Ways to Give Thanks During the Holiday Season
10 Unique Ways to Give Thanks During the Holiday Season
by Tzippi Moss
T'is the season when the commercials on T.V. and the radio and the displays in the stores cajole and convince us to buy, buy, buy. It's easy to get overwhelmed by trying to find that perfect gift for everyone. Yet the truest message at this time of year is to thank, thank, thank. Isn't this at the heart of Christmas? Chanukah? And all the other holidays? So in that fashion, I would like to propose various ways of giving thanks to your loved ones, yourself and your life.
I just read about a man who has been playing Santa for years by anonymously giving gifts of cash to strangers who can use a lift in spirit. We don�t have to be so generous to strangers with our spare cash, but there are plenty of great and low- or no-cost ideas to give thanks.
Yes, I have a web site dedicated to helping people make great birthday celebrations, but it�s also devoted to ways of better celebrating life. Here are a few ways of giving thanks to those that celebrate a birthday this month, or to just anyone whose presence has made a difference in your life:
1. Send a card sharing all the qualities you appreciate in that person. Challenge yourself to come up with one trait for every year he or she has lived. This is one card that will not be relegated to the garbage can.
2. Write down a memory of this person that is meaningful to you - a way, perhaps, of how this person has influenced your life for the better, or of how she helped you when you most needed it. Add a favorite picture of both of you to the card.
3. Send an anonymous love letter to this person.
4. Copy the list of natural highs listed below, adding or highlighting one item that your friend has graced you with. Add a short explanation and forward it by snail or e-mail.
5. Choose at least one person from your holiday card mailing list to call up. Ideally, it should be someone who you haven�t talked to in a long, long time. Thank this person for being in your life by sharing something you treasure about him or her. You�ll give the gift of letting someone know she still matters in your life and you get the present of reconnecting with a long lost friend or family member.
6. Give the gift of quality time. Though I give thanks daily for my loved ones, that doesn�t necessarily translate on the day- to -day level to them feeling like a priority. Doesn�t it often seem that e-mail, shopping, work, cooking and a long list of other to do�s often take precedence over wonderful undisturbed time with those we most treasure? When my teenage son recently asked me what I wanted for a birthday gift, I answered �time to go out together, just the two of us.� He took me out to a local ice cream place and the sweetest taste of all was having the opportunity to hang out together and catch up on the little things in each other�s lives.
7. Do a favor. We all have certain errands or chores that we prefer not to do. We all have moments when we want to be forgiven for something. We all have times when we need some comfort. Have you considered making up a little booklet with coupons that state this can be redeemed for: not having to do a chore, being unconditionally forgiven, receiving a 5 minute foot massage, being listened to with no interruptions, one good cry on the shoulder, etc.? You�ll thank yourself for having been able to make a big or small difference to someone in that moment.
8. Surprise someone. Imagine giving to someone who would never expect a gift from you. Give thanks for all that you have in your life by spreading some of that abundance around. Bring a pot of soup over to someone you know who lives alone and would love some home made food and conversation. Write a letter thanking someone for special service or assistance they have given you. Give a really huge tip.
9. Give thanks for what has inspired you in your life by sharing the gift of inspiration with others. You can compile a collection of great articles that you�ve clipped from the paper, or unique quotes that you download from the internet, or share a piece of wisdom that�s worth knowing. (For a great book that compiles the wisdom of folks from ages 60s-90s, check out What�s Worth Knowing (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FWhats-Worth-Knowing-Wendy-Lustbader%2Fdp%2F1585423726%2Fsr%3D1-2%2Fqid%3D1164624612%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Dbooks&tag=wbclub-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=wbclub-20&l=ur2&o=1).
10. Laugh and the world laughs with you. Humor is one of life�s greatest gifts, so share it with someone by sending a great joke, buying a funny book or seeing a comedy together.
Giving thanks and expressing gratitude are not just gifts you give to others. It�s also one of the best gifts you can give yourself. According to some of the most recent research, people who develop grateful mindsets, in addition to obviously feeling happier, also report fewer physical symptoms and more readily achieve goals set for themselves. So this holiday season, put �feeling thankful� at the very top of your list of resolutions.
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Insights Into Establishing A Harmonious Blended Family
Insights Into Establishing A Harmonious Blended Family
by Sharon Vaz
Many adults are getting married with children already in the wings. The result � blended families � can be greatly rewarding, although not without conflict. This article highlights some areas of concern for blended families and how to deal with them.
It is not uncommon these days for couples to pursue remarriage with children already in tow. Blended family statistics show that at least one in three Americans is now a stepchild, stepparent, a stepsibling, or some part of a blended family.
Blended families are usually the result of remarriage after divorce, where both bride and groom have kids under their wings. Or perhaps it�s a first time wedding for two single parents. Whatever the reason, families that are united by virtue of marriage and not blood are on the rise, bringing hope and stability to many people�s lives.
Blended Family Remarriage Conflicts
It�s not much of a surprise, however, that kids who suddenly have to deal with a "stepmother" or "stepfather" tend to shy away, become closed off, or openly rebel towards change. It�s a normal blended family issue that can be dealt with successfully; one must be prepared for resistance though.
Another blended family problem that often crops up is experienced by adults who can�t deal with children that are not their own. This usually stems from the idea that because a child is not one�s own flesh and blood, one has no real right to get involved in that child�s life. Like every other blended family conflict, it can be dealt with positively and effectively.
If you are part of a stepfamily, you�re probably familiar with these and other situations. The good news is, these are all perfectly normal and each situation can be resolved given sufficient time, love, and understanding.
The following are some common stepfamily conflicts and how you can handle them positively, solidifying your family�s unity and strength.
The Blended Family � Start Off With A Statement
It�s a good idea to make a commitment from the very beginning of your relationship. Couples have found that engaging in a unity family ceremony during the wedding is a great way to encourage family members to accept and love each other.
Basically, a unity family ceremony is when the bride, groom, and children all take turns pouring different colored sand into a glass jar or vase, creating a unique symbol of their unity. Families can also recite a blended family vow for the wedding to verbally signify their commitment to unity and harmony. It�s a great step towards getting along with each other and is very conducive to the growth of familial relationships.
The Blended Family � Decide On Where to Live
A big factor in establishing harmony in a family is your place of residence after getting married. Obviously, there�s no place like home and some children resent the idea of having to move into a step-siblings house (while the original resident stepsibling doesn�t have to endure the same sacrifice). A new home for everyone means the entire family has to start over and everyone is equal. It can be refreshing and exciting to move into a new home together.
The Blended Family � Face and Bury Old Conflicts
If a family is formed after a remarriage, children and parents are liable to carry over hurts and resentments from the previous marriage that can affect the harmony of the new family. For example, anger towards ex-husbands or wives, disappointment in children that their biological parents won�t ever work things out � these things can be deeply painful to deal with.
It�s best to handle these issues in a loving, non-judgmental manner, with everyone agreeing to support each other until the emotional wounds have healed. Constant verbal support and affirmation, hugs and kisses, and other forms of affection can all have massive impact on individual feelings.
Being negative and standoffish will only perpetuate ill-feelings and disharmony. Start your remarriage by being positive and strong for others in all situations.
How to Build Blended Family Relationships
The overall secret to building a strong blended family is to pay attention to the feelings of everyone involved and to build good faith between each other as a result.
Regarding the issue of discipline: a parent can start exerting authority and instating rules once he or she has earned the trust of the children. You can do this by listening, empathizing, and taking a genuine liking to a child�s interests. Once you have proved you are for real and you truly care, they will trust you even when you discipline. It�s all about building caring relationships above anything else.
We wish all parents and children good luck as you strive to build a strong blended family. To quote the Beatles, �All you need is love.� That, in a nutshell, is what makes both natural and blended families work out.
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Search Engines And Directories - Understanding The Difference
Search Engines And Directories - Understanding The Difference
by Chris Angus
One thing that is so basic that it often still needs to clarified is the concept that a search engine and a search directory (article directory) are not the same thing. The traditional search engines add Web site pages to their databases automatically and then rank them in popularity in their search engine rankings based on user submissions. However, these search engines also periodically send their automatic robots or "spiders" out to "crawl" for new and updated information on websites that can also be indexed and added to the search engine rankings. Complex algorithms (that are comparable to the mysterious complex FICO Scores that are used to calculate your credit rating) calculate your web page�s popularity on a number of different factor. The most famous example of a pure search engine like this is Google
Directories also qualify as a search site but they are not the same as a search engine. To get listed on a directory, you must actually submit your front page URL on the directory's submission form. Also instead of being evaluated by an algorithm, these pages are directly assessed by a human being. This means that your site is ranked according to the information that you submitted on your application. This is very different from a typical search engine that assesses your web ranking according to what is actually on the home page of your web site. The Open Directory, Yahoo and LookSmart are the main Internet directories that are managed in this way.
To make things even more difficult the search sites and the search engines work in cahoots together to boost each other�s rankings. Almost all of the major search engines also work in tandem with a directory which is why, for instance, a listing in DMOZ almost automatically guarantees you a place on Google.
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Sunday, December 30, 2007
Making The Most Out Of Your Free Adobe Photoshop Tutorial
Making The Most Out Of Your Free Adobe Photoshop Tutorial
by Mario R. Churchill
You may be having the very best of the world's free Adobe photoshop tutorials, but if you yourself are not prepared for it and not as driven to devise ways to maximize your learning, you may find yourself unable to get your money and time's worth from your Adobe photoshop tutorial. A free Adobe photoshop tutorial is very loose and does not really compel you to give it time on a regular basis. You hold the decision ultimately on what terms you are going about with the free tutorial, along with many other things.
Be Consistent
Regardless of the amount of time and type of tutorial you are under, consistency is key to be able to really make it work. Set aside a time and place for your learning. You can't just expect to learn a lot if you are not able to devote much time and energy to learning the concepts on a regular basis. It takes 21 days to make a habit, so at least get in the tutorial for 21 days at a fixed time and place so that you will be able to make the tutorial part of your daily routine online.
Set a Target
You must have a goal of completing the free tutorial if you want to be continually motivated to finish the course. That way, you will be free to take your learning to new levels and aim for advanced topics in the fastest possible time that your schedule will permit. A target will ensure that you are going somewhere and that will help you efficiently map out how you are to go about with your learning.
Apply Every Concept You Learn for Faster Retention
Merely reading the concepts won't make you a photoshop genius. You need to really install the software and apply whatever concept you learn from your free tutorial. Applying the concepts also helps you master it more quickly. That way, when new concepts build, you will better be able to integrate the new concepts with the old concepts you have painstakingly taken the time to apply. By the time you finish the free tutorial, you will be able to do it with less questions and worries, and you will also be well-equipped enough to teach others.
Get a Learning Buddy
Having someone to follow up on your progress or learn the tricks of the trade with you is one of the more efficient ways to learn. You will be able to have accountability and not be slack if you have someone to work with in learning from the free tutorial. Being able to regularly talk about your progress and goals from the tutorial will keep you in the right perspective.
Note and Track Your Progress
Have a checklist handy. There you will be able to track your progress in learning. If you happen to have things you specifically want to learn from photoshop, take note of them and list them accordingly. Mark those which you have already accomplished so that you will be able to know how capable you are becoming and how much more skill training is needed. This way, you will also be able to determine how much more time you need to practice on certain topics to further cement the knowledge that you have acquired from the tutorial.
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Successfully Living on a Budget
Successfully Living on a Budget
by Emma Snow
Living beyond financial means and incurring large amounts of consumer debt are increasing among individuals and families. Whether your income is large or small, creating a budget and adhering to it, will allow you to avoid debt and make better choices about needs and wants. When you create a family budget it is not so much the size of your income that determines success, but the way it is spent. The first step is to identify payments and bills and start to allocate your monthly income accordingly. Make categories for each item such as; rent/mortgage, car payment, utilities, food, household items, entertainment, vacation, household repairs, personal spending, savings.
Budgets can be customized to fit individual and family means, as well as needs and wants. As it is identified where money is being spent, evaluating purchases and what can be cut, changed or eliminated will allow for more conscience and effective spending. Many people do not realize how much they spend on eating out, unnecessary household items or clothes. The money is gone and they can't account for where it went. This is not only damaging financially by spending more than one has, but it is less fulfilling because it is thoughtless purchasing. For many, immediate gratification in purchasing has led to a plague of debt and bankruptcy. Avoid the trap of interest and wastefulness by making clear decisions about money. Here are some suggestions to help make a successful budget.
Counsel with partner/family on a regular basis about spending
Regular communication and goal setting allows for financial success because all parties are on the same page and work together to make decisions for the family. By talking about goals it identifies concretely what the needs and wants are for the home and family and helps eliminate the power that impulse can have when shopping. Make decisions together including gifts, eating out, home improvements and personal spending amounts. Setting a limited amount allocated for each person to do with what they want without reporting gives freedom of choice, but controlled. Depending on your financial status that amount will vary and could be as little as $50 a month. It is important to keep it within an amount that can be afforded.
Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without
It seems as though the more people have, the more they want. Just getting more money is not the solution for most financial struggles. Learning to evaluate needs and what can last and what needs to be replaced is the first step to putting money in the best places and making what ever your income is, be enough. Although it is tempting to "keep up with the Jones' " comparing possessions to others and trying to have what they do will not allow for a successful budget. If items are bought on borrowed money then possessions are not a true reflection of finances anyway. Making due with what one already has will eliminate a lot of unnecessary spending and free up money for more wise purchases.
Give thought to purchases
Planning for purchases and saving before something is bought will prevent unnecessary debt and the consequences associated with it. Mindless spending has as negative of impact on the household as mindless eating does for the body. You end up with more than you need in the wrong places. Plan for what you want by making a list of most important or most desired to least important. Identifying your needs and wants will give focus and direction for spending and help prevent impulse buying. Shop around and see what is out there, what the going rate is for an item, and what a good deal would be. Watch for sales and coupons to make the best purchase.
Include savings in a budget
Living within financial means is not living on the maximum made, but planning for a rainy day. Because unexpected events can and do happen planning for such situations will prevent the debt that would have to be incurred to pay for them. The more a person saves, the better, set aside as much as possible in this area for security and protection. Regret of purchasing is much for common than regret of not purchasing.
Creating a budget will reduce financial stress. Making conscience spending choices, well thought out and followed through with will create financial freedom and power for individuals and families. Wise choices will increase the quality of life, even if the quantity of possessions is not, and greater peace of mind will be found, and that is success.
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Low Rate Secured Loan UK: Best Deal Ever Introduced
Low Rate Secured Loan UK: Best Deal Ever Introduced
by Celeste Parker
While looking for a loan the issue that concerns an individual is that how can he derive more benefits from a loan policy by paying less rate of interest. Though fresh loan schemes are introduced in the market, the plans are not potent to provide maximum advantages. But low rate secured loan UK surpassed all polices by offering more benefits against low rate of interest. By providing such advantages it has become an iconic figure and able to establish its sceptre in the world of loan.
Low rate secured loan UK is designed for every community of UK and facilitates the citizens to borrow loan in an easy and convenient way. In a single amount of loan the individuals can execute and summarize various demands and ends like buying a car, going far holiday destinations, weddings, higher educations of children and so on. But to avail the amount applicanst have to pledge their property as collateral to the lenders. The pledging of collateral empowers them to borrow large amount which starts from �5,000- �75,000 by paying low interest charges. The charges can be reduced by negotiation with lenders if collaterals carry higher equity. But the rate of interest remains fixed throughout the period of repayment which is pre-determined. And the tenure of reimbursement is stretched from 10-25 years which again makes the repayment easier.
As loans are approved against property of applicants so they can even borrow low rate secured loan UK irrespective of poor or bad credit records, for rebuilding and stabilizing the bad credit scores from creating more financial hassles. The rate charges of low rate secured loan UK offered has left all the loan schemes behind and became the most preferred loan plan by financial experts.
To compete and provide services in a better way compared to other loan policies, low rate secured loan UK information are made available round the clock through online and customer care centre. Low rate secured loan UK can be approved by filing online application form with the personal and credit details. So, in a single amount applicants can now be able to supervise their miscellaneous demands.
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The New Face Of Giving Photo Gift
The New Face Of Giving Photo Gift
by Mario Churchill
Gifts are almost just as important as any occasion. From birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduation, and many other forms of celebration; and oftentimes people ran out of good gift ideas. If you're the one to receive a gift, you will most likely be happy with a present that is 'not so very ordinary'.
Most people give gifts like dresses, shirts, shoes, hanky, sunglasses, and other common things that you usually use everyday. It's just sad to say that although these gifts are good there are times when it just isn't enough.
Price is not the matter in question. It is always the thought that counts above every thing else. The most treasured gifts are those that came from the heart. A gift that cost a fortune but didn't come from the heart is worthless, and the receiver will not be very happy.
But wouldn't it be more satisfying to see someone overjoyed and surprised with what you gave as a gift. You can please your spouse, parents, kids, and even your friends with unique gifts.
It is not surprising that your mind will ran out of all the unique gift ideas, after all, how many family members and friends celebrate their birthdays each year. And to think that you actually give them gifts every year, oh what a wreck. Don't lose hope yet, think about your loved one's interest, what he/she likes and dislikes, and may be you'll get some good ideas.
You may find it hard to choose the specific gift to give probably because that fellow has typically everything that you can think about; or you can't find one item that will convey all your deep-felt feelings for a specific person. Spending a lot of hours in front of the computer or inside shopping malls may prove to be drastic. Then why not give a unique photo gift; it may be just the thing that your loved one will cherish all her/his life.
Photo gifts are no longer confined into the four corners of a picture frame. But if you want to give a picture portrait, it is also quite good. But because of digital photography, it is now possible to transform a particular picture or scene to just about anything; you name it, then you can have it transformed into a whole new different way.
You can upload a certain photo of memorable people or scene, or you can order anything in particular. Turn your photos into blankets, pillows, mugs, and many other things. Add a personal touch to your gift, with the help of experts; you may be able to come up with the perfect photo gift.
The new technology brought about by digital imaging brings out your creative side. This way, the thoughtfulness imparted to the receiver is sure to touch his/her heart. Simple as it is, the personal touch makes it more priced and treasured.
Photo gifts can last for quite some time, especially when it is cared for and treasured. However, photo gifts embedded in fabrics prove to last longer unlike mugs or other breakable things. Once broken, you can't put the pieces back together.
The New Face of Giving Photo Gifts
Gifts are almost just as important as any occasion. From birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduation, and many other forms of celebration; and oftentimes people ran out of good gift ideas. If you're the one to receive a gift, you will most likely be happy with a present that is 'not so very ordinary'.
Most people give gifts like dresses, shirts, shoes, hanky, sunglasses, and other common things that you usually use everyday. It's just sad to say that although these gifts are good there are times when it just isn't enough.
Price is not the matter in question. It is always the thought that counts above every thing else. The most treasured gifts are those that came from the heart. A gift that cost a fortune but didn't come from the heart is worthless, and the receiver will not be very happy.
But wouldn't it be more satisfying to see someone overjoyed and surprised with what you gave as a gift. You can please your spouse, parents, kids, and even your friends with unique gifts.
It is not surprising that your mind will ran out of all the unique gift ideas, after all, how many family members and friends celebrate their birthdays each year. And to think that you actually give them gifts every year, what a wreck. Don't lose hope yet, think about your loved one's interest, what he/she likes and dislikes, and may be you'll get some good ideas.
You may find it hard to choose the specific gift to give probably because that felloperson has typically everything that you can think about; or you can't find one item that will convey all your deep-felt feelings for a specific person. Spending a lot of hours in front of the computer or inside shopping malls may prove to be drastic. Then why not give a unique photo gift; it may be just the thing that your loved one will cherish all her/his life.
Photo gifts are no longer confined into the four corners of a picture frame. But if you want to give a picture portrait, it is also quite good. But because of digital photography, it is now possible to transform a particular picture or scene to just about anything; you name it, then you can have it transformed into a whole new different way.
You can upload a certain photo of memorable people or scene, or you can order anything in particular. Turn your photos into blankets, pillows, mugs, and many other things. Add a personal touch to your gift, with the help of experts; you may be able to come up with the perfect photo gift.
The new technology brought about by digital imaging brings out your creative side. This way, the thoughtfulness imparted to the receiver is sure to touch his/her heart. Simple as it is, the personal touch makes it more priced and treasured.
Photo gifts can last for quite some time, especially when it is cared for and treasured. However, photo gifts embedded in fabrics prove to last longer unlike mugs or other breakable things. Once broken, you can't put the pieces back together.
Think what your loved one likes best, or anything that interests him/her. Give a photo gift, and see the glitter and joy lit in his/her eyes.
our loved one likes best, or anything that interests him/her. Give a photo gift, and see the glitter and joy lit in his/her eyes.
About The Author
Mortgage Loans - Which one is right for me?
Mortgage Loans - Which one is right for me?
by Dave Zwierecki
There seem to literally be thousands of mortgage programs out there so how do I know which one is best for me? Finding the right mortgage program to fit your needs and your financial goals can be difficult to do unless you are working with the "right" mortgage professional and asking the "right" questions.
Which mortgage program is right for me? This is a very common question asked by many consumers. There is no one answer fits all type response that can be given. Each and every individual person has their own specific financial situation and their own financial goals and dreams. With the number of mortgage programs out there to choose from being in the hundreds and maybe even the thousands, this can be a difficult decision trying to figure out what is going to be best for you. There are interest only loans, ARM loans, Pay Option ARM loans, balloons, fixed rate loans, extendable balloons, conventional loans, FHA loans, and many, many others to consider. Therefore, so what do I need to think about when choosing a loan program then?
Some of the main factors that you will want to consider when choosing which mortgage loan is right for you are: how long will you live in your home, do you have any children attending college currently or within the next few years, is this a starter home, will you have a pre-payment penalty, are you expecting any new family members to be added to your family, how much do you have in liquid assets, are you self-employed or do you work for someone, how much longer until you plan on retiring, do you have enough money for retirement, do you have many other financial obligations besides a mortgage, do you own any other property, and many, many others. Answering these questions, or at least thinking about them before you are ready to finance a home mortgage loan can help to greatly improve your chances of finding the right mortgage loan to meet your demands.
A fixed rate mortgage is always going to provide the most stability in the long run, however since most Americans sell or refinance every 4.6 years a fixed rate does not always make the most sense. An ARM loan can provide a cheaper payment and a lower interest rate upfront for a certain number of years, but there is a lot more risk involved obtaining an ARM loan because of the uncertainty of what will happen after the fixed rate period expires on the ARM. Interest only loans are good for real estate investors and consumers who need the flexibility of being able to make only the interest portion of the monthly payments. Pay Option ARM loans can be a great way to maximize cash flow, especially for self-employed and commissioned borrowers. However, Pay Option ARM loans can incur negative amortization, which is when your balance increases instead of decreases. There are a lot of items that you need to make sure that you understand before entering into a Pay Option ARM loan. FHA loans are usually better for homebuyers, especially first time who may not have the best credit or the best overall financial situation.
Thus, find a good mortgage professional and keep him or her for the rest of your days. The more you work with one person the more familiar they will be with your situation and be able to understand where you are coming from and where you want to go. This will help to insure that you find the proper mortgage loan for your situation.
About The Author
The Healing Power of Picture Albums
The Healing Power of Picture Albums
by Morgan Hamilton
Recently, my mother was confined to bed. She had to stay off her feet to take pressure off her hip and rest for several weeks. She had had surgery on her hip so in order to be sure that the hip will heal properly she had to rest in bed. Everything was going fine but I was very concerned about something. My mother is a very active person. She simply cannot lie in bed all day long. The problem was that she could easily be bored and become depressed while lying in bed. I had to think of something that she could do to amuse herself in order to prevent depression.
I knew that my Mom just needed to do something that would make her think she is still vital. I had to think of something that I needed to be done so she would be proud she was helping me. It came to my mind that I had many photos, which I had just pushed in a drawer. They were still in envelopes. I remembered that I had purchased a number of picture albums over the years. These picture albums were still empty, as I had not had the time to fill the picture albums with pictures. I took the pictures and the picture albums and I brought them to my mother�s home.
My mom had troubles with her everyday personal needs so I had hired a nurse to help my mother while she was in bed. When I went to my mother�s home, I was astonished to see that the nurse was intending to go. I asked her what was wrong. The nurse shared with me that my mother is getting depressed. My mom had not wanted to do anything. She was not in the mood to talk; she just wanted to lie in the dark and quiet room. She had asked the nurse to keep the curtains closed. My mom didn�t even want to read a book or to watch television.
When I entered the room, she saw the box I was carrying. She asked me what is in there. I told her that there were picture albums in the box. I explained her that during the last twenty years, I have collected many pictures but I had not had the time to place them in picture albums. I told her that I needed someone to fill the pictures in the picture albums. At first, she was not very excited with the idea. She shared with me that it would be too difficult for her to spread the photos and the picture albums all over the bed.
I assured her that this was no problem at all. I rolled the bed tray over in front of her. When I helped her to sit up with her pillows, she saw she was sitting very comfortable. My mom told me that she thought I had brought too many pictures. She asked me why I needed so many picture albums.
The truth was that I had been collected these picture albums through the years. The photos were from the last twenty years that I have been married. Mom was not very curious about the picture albums and told me she would give them a look later.
I was almost sure that she would not do anything with the photos. I was very concerned about her condition. I decided to give her a phone call the next day. I was very surprised when a friend of hers picked up the phone and told me that that she was helping my mom with the picture albums. She asked me if I was able to bring more picture album so that they would be able to sort the pictures. I didn�t even expect her to organize the picture albums.
A few days later, I visited my mother again. She looked pretty well. She told me that she had organized my picture albums. I was very glad that she had enjoyed herself. I told her that I had to be out of town on business for several days so that I won�t be able to see her.
Ten days later when I went to see her, the box with picture albums was waiting for me. She had not only arranged the picture albums but she had had written notes and as many dates as she could on each of the picture albums. She told me that she and her friends were having fun while arranging the picture albums. Surprisingly, she was intending to start arranging picture albums for my sister next week.
About The Author
How to Select Right Software Development Services Provider?
How to Select Right Software Development Services Provider?
by Pradeep Jade
Selecting a right software development company is really a tough job. The manager needs to check various aspects before finalizing the software development service provider to handover the project to them.
Prior to approach a software company to develop software, you need to work on some basic things like Identifying exact requirement, Analyzing the requirement as per end user point of view, Design a basic architecture or workflow.
After doing the basic analysis, you could approach some reputed software development companies with your specific requirements.
What things you should check with every software solutions provider?
You could choose a right software development company by analyzing the following factors.
a. Technology Expertise: Technology is the most changing factor in software industry. So selecting the suitable technology for the software application is also important. Therefore check out that in which technologies the company has expertise.
b. Timely Delivery: Timing is very important in software industry because you must launch your software product or service before your competitors. It will help you to achieve the big share in the market. So make sure that your software product / application will complete within the estimated time frame.
c. Quality of Service:
Error-free software creates the good image in the market. So test your software from user point of view to check the quality of software before putting it into market.
d. Support: Post software development support is the integral part of smooth functioning of the software application. Ensure that the company provides the proper software support system.
e. Past Experience: You should ask the software development work they have done before for other clients. Then you would be able to find out the strengths and weaknesses of particular Software Development Company and whether the company is able to fulfill your Software requirements or not.
Where should I get quality software development services?
There are many software development companies in market, but as per my information Tandoninfo.com is one of the best Software Services Provider Company based in India having branches in USA too.
Tandon Information Solutions Pvt. Ltd (TISPL) provides complete custom software development solutions, project management as well as application development, Quality testing and Quality assurance services to various kind of business areas. TISPL also offer web-marketing services such as Search Engine Optimization, Pay Per Click Management, Link Building, etc. It will help you to get top keyword ranking and maximum traffic through major search engines like Google, Yahoo, MSN, etc.
TISPL have professional expertise in all latest Software areas like C, C++, Java, VB, VB.NET, ASP, ASP.NET, SAP, RDBMS, Linux and many more. The consultants in TIS are skilled in multiple platforms, languages and applications and receive continual cross training in world-class development facilities to ensure that TISPL stays at the leading edge of technology.
SAP Business One Software Solutions:
If you are looking for integrated software services to manage your business functions efficiently then you can find Tandoninfo.com, which offers advanced SAP Business One Software Services at affordable cost. They are expert in SAP Business One Customization, Implementation, Integration and Support as well.
For more information about software development services you can check here �
http://www.tandoninfo.com
About The Author
Purchasing Espresso Beans
Purchasing Espresso Beans
by Jack Blacksmith
A short guide to purchasing chocolate covered espresso beans wholesale
So you know you want to purchase chocolate covered espresso beans wholesale and going online will give you the best selection and the best prices. The only thing is you aren�t sure how to do this and keep your credit card safe. Well, no problem this will show you how to get your product and keep your identity safe from thieves. We�ve all heard bad stores about people who�ve had their bank accounts plundered and their identity stolen. If you follow a few simple tips you can keep safe when shopping for espresso beans, coffee, or even an espresso maker!
Buying espresso beans or any other coffee product on the internet doesn�t have to be as hard as you think, you just need to make sure you know what you are doing when you want to use your credit card to shop on the internet.
You need to always be sure of what you are purchasing. Even though a web site says it has the best product on the market, make sure you read the description of the product carefully and study the photographs as well. You want to pour over the fine print and see if there are any clues that might indicate that what you are about to order is not the same as what you are seeing online. You need to keep in mind that if you think you are getting a great deal that seems to be too good to be true, than it probably is too good to be true!
You also need to take care with how you buy your products online. Before you punch in a single number online you should carefully read the website and see all the options they accept for payment and how they will ship your brand new espresso maker or yummy espresso beans to you! If your site asks you for private information like your Social Security number, driver�s license number, or your bank account number then you should stay away. No one should be asking you for this kind of information to buy espresso beans or an espresso maker.
Keeping excellent records of your online purchases can keep you safe too. You will want to keep hard copies of all email correspondence, shipping information, and payment transactions. Make sure you have all the details of your business dealings with the company to make sure you get what you paid for.
If you still don�t feel safe ordering things online, then you can always use a trusted 1-800 number to order over the phone. You could also request a wholesale catalog, the old fashioned way � through the mail!
About The Author
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Welcoming the Out-of-Town Special Event Guest
Welcoming the Out-of-Town Special Event Guest
by Teresa Franko
There was a time when families and friends all inhabited the same town or even the same three or four square city blocks. For most of us, that time has passed. Career opportunities and contacts made while pursuing a higher education have led to most families spreading out across the country. However, when we plan the special events of our lives, from Baptisms to Weddings, we want to be with our family and friends to share that day regardless of the distance we live apart. As a result most special events have a number of guests who travel some distance to join the celebration.
When a guest outlays a significant amount of time and money to attend a family event, we want to be certain to show our appreciation with hospitality and a gracious welcome. There are many ways that can be done. Perhaps one of the best is with a welcome basket placed in the hotel room. Arriving tired and perhaps hungry after a day of travel, you can imagine how much a basket of goodies would be appreciated by your out of town guest.
Welcome baskets can contain an assortment of food and beverage items such as chocolates, popcorn, nuts, pretzels, sparkling cider, bottled water, flavored coffee, candy, cheese and crackers, biscotti, and cookies.
When choosing the foods to include it is wonderful if you can include at least some if not all items that are local or regional favorites. For example:
California- Ghiradelli Chocolate
New York- Cheesecake
Iowa- Popcorn
Virginia- Peanuts
Georgia- Peach Buds
Pennsylvania- Hersheys Chocolate
Welcome baskets can also be filled with items to make the hotel stay more pleasant such as a cotton throw, linen spray, bath bomb, night-light, shower gel, and travel candle.
Every hotel welcome basket should contain a welcoming note from the host. In addition, it is wonderful to add maps, the itinerary for the special event weekend and tourist type brochures. Information that the guest not familiar with the area will enjoy is often available from the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Bureau.
Hotel Welcome Baskets are often left at the hotel registration desk and given to guests at check-in. Of course, it would be lovely if time permitted you to hand deliver them to your guests after their arrival.
From a very small tote bag containing only some fresh baked cookies to an extravagant basket of gourmet goodies, this is the first hint that your guest will have of just how special this special event will be!
About The Author
Celebration Of Faith
Celebration Of Faith
by Elizabeth Ellis
I barely remember any details on my own baptism, but my mother told me that I was named on the same day that I was baptized. It was a simple ceremony attended by relatives and close friends of my parents. And thus, I began my life as a Christian early in life. My parents organized a brief but meaningful ceremony for my baptism. There were no more that 20 people inside the church to celebrate that special occasion.
If you are organizing a baptism party for your baby, you may want to do some careful early planning to avoid possible hiccups in the event. Early planning involves making arrangements with the church, booking and confirming the venue, compiling and finalize guests list, preparing thank-you notes and gifts for all guests and the key people involved in the ceremony. If you are not sure whether you are doing the right thing, you may refer to an experienced person who had gone through the ceremony. If you have a bigger budget and do not wish to go through all the trouble, you may hire an event planner to organize the party for you. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to splurge on such occasion, so in this kind of situation, a low-key event can be organized. With proper planning and clever ideas, even low-key celebrations can be equally wonderful and meaningful.
Godfather and godmother are essential elements in a baptism ceremony. Parents of the baby must choose godparents for their child. The decision can be made earlier and the godparents are informed about it. Normally parents would appoint one godmother and one godfather for their child. In other places, the arrangement may be different. The decision is entirely for the parents to make. Parents will need to inform the godparents about their decision. Normally parents would appoint their closest and most trusted friends as godparents to their baby. Godparents also bear the responsibility as guardians of the child. Parents may choose to hold the ceremony indoors or outdoors. Garden party on a sunny, pleasant day would be nice. Reception can also be held in hotels and private clubs.
If you are organizing any event and want to avoid any possible glitches, it is best that you plan everything early and that includes sending out invitation cards. One month to two weeks prior to the actual event date is the recommended period for sending out invitation cards. Guests are given enough time to decide and inform you whether they are able to attend the event or not. Early planning benefits both the host and the guests alike.
In a traditional Baptism/Christening your baby will wear a gown during the service. This gown would be a long white or cream in color, it is worn by both girls and boys. Your family may have a gown that has been passed to them from other generations, but always purchase a new one easily.
After the solemn ritual ends, the baby's parents may hold a reception for their guests. This is a nice way of celebrating the occasion after some prayers and also good opportunity to get closely together with the guests. The host may choose to hold the reception at a restaurant, hall or at the privacy of the host's own home. If he chooses a public venue for the reception, he may have to make advance booking.
Light foods like burgers, drumsticks, fries, salads and soups are delightful treats for guests at the baptism reception. It is appropriate for the host to serve soft drinks and non-alcoholic drinks to his guests at the reception. It is important not to go overboard with the foods and drinks if the host does not wish to blow his budget. Another easy way is to order foods from the catering companies. If the host wishes for their guests to contribute or bring their own food to share with the rest, he may do so and inform them earlier about it. This is to allow ample time for the guests to make preparations.
It is a good idea to prepare a small favor for your guests. These are akin to baby shower favors and can be any small gift or trinket that your guests can take home to remind them of the ceremony. The baptism favors can be given at the ceremony, the reception, or both. It is also a common practice to give a small gift to the godparents. Guest also normally hand out small gifts to the parents, these usually consist of religious items for the baby such as bibles and rosaries unlike baby shower gifts .Last but not least don�t forget to send thank-you cards or letters to all your guests to show your appreciation for coming to your child�s Baptism.
About The Author
The Appeal Of String Cheese As A Quick Healthy Snack
The Appeal Of String Cheese As A Quick Healthy Snack
by Ann Marier
Of all the different kinds of cheeses available today, perhaps none represents the needs of modern society as much as string cheese does. Taking advantage of the way some cheeses are structured, string cheese is molded, extruded, or braided into strings that can be individually wrapped for consumers.
The end result is that instead of having to cut your cheese for a snack, you need only open a small package. Because of this, string cheese makes a great, healthy snack for those on the go, from kids to adults.
Big on Health and Taste
Most string cheese in the United States is made from mozzarella, a fresh cheese traditionally made from buffalo's milk. Because of this, it is an extremely healthy snack food, containing a high percentage of the recommended amount of calcium for individuals. In addition, it is naturally low in calories, so for those who are trying to lose weight, it's a great snack to have without feeling guilty.
Despite the fact that it's a healthy food, string cheese is not overly bland like healthy foods often get portrayed as. Mozzarella has a mild flavor that's a hit with children and adults alike, having been popularized in other foods such as pizza and lasagna. Because of this, it's rare to find someone who doesn't like string cheese; it lacks appeal only to the most finicky of eaters.
Convenient Packaging
Because the shape of string cheese lends itself well to being wrapped individually, it's a common feature in the bags of people on the go, whether it's a student at school or an adult at work. The single-serving packaging of string cheese puts it on par with small bags of chips for convenience; just open the package and throw out the wrapper.
It has also found its way into many vending machines thanks to its small size, which makes it a great alternative to the other snacks available. Even if you buy it at the grocery store and take it home, the size makes it easy to slip into a purse or a book bag.
Two Warnings
There are a couple of things about string cheese that should be considered before consuming it. First, keep in mind that for those who need or want a low-sodium diet, you may be better off finding another snack. However, by soaking it in water prior to eating, you can reduce the salt content of the cheese.
The other thing to keep in mind is that while many snacks hold up well to being warmed up, only a few seconds in the microwave will change string cheese so that it does not pull apart as easily. Unless you want a pile of melted mozzarella, it's best to simply eat your string cheese as intended, and enjoy the convenience of this snack food.
About The Author
http://www.typesofcheese.4houseandgarden.com
http://www.candlemaking.4houseandgarden.com
http://www.hydroponics.4houseandgarden.com
Friday, December 28, 2007
US Bank Accounts For Non-Residents: A Buyers Guide
US Bank Accounts For Non-Residents: A Buyers Guide
by Martin Pavion
After spending much of June researching how to open a US bank account from outside of America I have created a guide of what you should look for to avoid frustrations, wasted time and to avoid putting your money at unnecessary risk.
If you see companies selling "US Bank Account Kits" online then realize that they are charging you money just to tell you of a bank account that accepts applicants. Their kits usually provides you with application forms and perhaps a quick guide as to what you should write in the application. There is nothing wrong with paying money as a kind of "finders fee" but understand that you will be able to get those application forms for free from the bank. I've provided a list of banks that do accept international applicants below and if you feel the need then you are welcome to contact them yourself.
Be careful about traders selling US Bank Account Packs on EBay. These people rarely have any experience opening these accounts themselves and they have no idea if their product actually works or not. Many of these people have bought the package from somebody else and they will just sell it online without even caring if you waste your money on it. A lot of loopholes have closed recently and often these packs are completely out of date and could get you into trouble.
There is a way to get a US Bank account through E*Trade which you'll see promoted. You'll be told that you can get a check book and, with a $1,000 deposit, you'll be able to get an ATM card too. You won't be told that this bank is E*Trade though but you'll see reference to it because they will mention a $1,000 requirement to apply for the "Platinum Visa Card". What these companies don't warn you about is that you are obligated to open a brokerage account with E*Trade and if you don't regularly trade in stocks then your account can be frozen. It can take MONTHS to get it unfrozen. Thee promoters also claim that you can pay checks into your account which is no longer true.
There are some companies advertising ATM cards that can be used with PayPal and E-Gold. Some of the merchants do not have strong links with any bank and there have been instances where suddenly the agent has been suspended and all his customers cards get stopped. These ATM cards operate as "direct deposit" accounts and although you'll be issued with a card, you will not have your money in your own account.
Be careful about how frequently websites are updated. Check to see if the website updates its bank fees regularly or not. If they don't then it is a sign that the website you are working with is out-of-date and the agent may not really understand the industry any more. Changes happen all the time with bank terms and conditions for international members so if you see fees that do not specify a date, check with the merchant to see if they are still current.
Don't trust websites that are not affiliated with the bank or card provider. Internet fraud is common and it is very easy for a thief to set up a website to collect your details for identity theft. Look for a direct link to and from the banks website. Also make contact with the merchant before ordering to get an idea of their response time and commitment to customer service.
If you make an application using a web form check that the website address for the orders page is secure. A secure website will begin with https:// and (depending on your web browser) should show a closed padlock to show that the site is secure.
Don't pay hundreds of dollars for administrative fees. I do believe that it might be necessary to pay extra to open business bank accounts but some companies charge over $500 just to process your application form. Often you'd be able to apply to these banks directly but the agents won't tell you which bank they will submit your application to so that they can profit from you.
Often Bank accounts for international clients come with additional fees. Make sure you investigate these before registering for any account.
Don't trust any company that doesn't require you to provide them with at least 2 forms of ID. One must have proof of your address, the other must have a photo ID. If a merchant does not request this then they are in breach of US banking laws.
Any bank or service that offers a Visa Debit card will be charged an "international usage fee" by Visa International. The charge is applied if you use your card in a country other than where it was issued. Visa's International Usage fee can be as crazy as 8% and because the fee is not charged directly by the bank many banks avoid mentioning this. Before you do anything you must ask whether you will be charged this fee or whether the bank will waive it. Nearly every bank will require that you pay this fee!
About The Author
If you are interested in opening a US bank account and you are not a US citizen please visit http://www.realusbank.com for the most practical package available.
Stock Investing Tips From Brokers
Stock Investing Tips From Brokers
by Mark Walters
Very few investors have a chance to talk to a stock broker from a large firm. Even if they do find themselves sharing a conversation with a real stock broker, it is unlikely that they will learn any trade secrets. It is not that brokers belong to a secret society. Brokers are often uncomfortable talking with novice brokers because it usually ends up in an argument.
There is so much evergreen, rehashed information on the Internet, that many novices are die-hard fans of out dated investing methods long before they ever learn how the brokers invest.
Avoid Hot Stocks
This is laughable in the investment world, but novice investors are constantly attracted to the hot stocks. Unfortunately, all the big money has been made before the stock became hot.
Cash Flow
The brokers do not worry about the news, politics, or business plans and propaganda of companies. Instead, they look at the balance sheets. Avoid any company that carries a high debt, even if it is in overdrafts and open ended loans.
A company with little debt is capable of losing a massive amount of sales, go through a restructuring, and step back into the market, without loosing stock value.
Avoid Speculation
Long shots are called �long shots� because they almost always miss the mark. If someone walks around telling people about the next biggest boom, then experienced investors wonder how much of a �cut� the sales person is getting.
No company can make a simple change, merger, or restructuring, and then have their stocks shoot up overnight. Seeing stocks head down 80% overnight is quite common, but up? Almost never.
Follow the Gurus
While it is not necessary to follow the crowd, it is important to follow the gurus. Fool.com is one of the world�s most popular investor�s website. While no guru can get it right, most of the time, learning from the gurus can help novice investors stack the odds in their favour.
Avoiding controversial stocks and dark horses is a commandment for most guru investors.
Warren Buffett, who wrote in his 1989 annual letter:
"Easy does it. After 25 years of buying and supervising a great variety of businesses, Charlie and I have not learned how to solve difficult business problems. What we have learned is to avoid them. To the extent we have been successful, it is because we concentrated on identifying one-foot hurdles that we could step over rather than because we acquired any ability to clear seven-footers. The finding may seem unfair, but in both business and investments it is usually far more profitable to simply stick with the easy and obvious than it is to resolve the difficult."
Long Term Investing
Most new investors watch their stocks float daily. Many investors destroy their opportunities by trading too much. Stocks should be treated like a business.
The daily price of the stock is unimportant. What is important is whether the company will make more money than last year, reduce their debts, and capture a larger segment of the market.
Conclusion
Stock investing is not like trading Baseball cards, and should not be treated as suck. Avoid spam that promises quick profits, secrets to wealth, and insider tricks. Instead, follow the patterns used by real stock brokers.
About The Author
My Favorite Russian Food
My Favorite Russian Food
by John Kunkle
As Lynn Visson's "Wedded Strangers" states:
�If you have been lucky enough to be invited to a Russian household, you will experience the famous Russian hospitality. The feast is kind of a war between host and guests. There has to be at least six appetizers including salads, smoked fish, pate, deli meats, cheese, meat and potatoes, soup, and something sweet, usually cake.�
�Hosts and guests play the game of forcing more portions, refusing, more pushing, okay just a little.�
Elena Petrova states on her website:
�It's considered rude if you leave something on your plate when eating at a private house and you can offend the hosts. If you do not drink alcohol, at least take a glass and have a sip. You are supposed to try every dish on the table so make room in your stomach.�
My wife is an excellent cook. We eat more or less in the Russian style on a daily basis.
Russians do not eat a special meal for breakfast as they do in America. To Russians, all meals are the same. You eat what is leftover from the last meal, plus anything new that is cooked to round out the choice of food.
Russian meals typically start with soup. All soups are home made. The most famous Russian soup is borscht. This is a beet soup. Ukrainian style borscht is vegetarian. Belarusians add bits of meat to the borscht and Russian style borscht usually adds sausage instead of meat.
A spoonful of Russian mayonnaise is added to the soup for flavor. The American equivalent to Russian mayonnaise is sour cream. Russians use sour cream like Americans use butter � they put it on almost everything.
Potato soup. Cabbage soup. Another soup is pickle soup, made from dill pickles. It�s delicious. Summer soup, made also from beets, is called that because it is served cold during the hot weather. There are more types of soup than I can remember. All of them are home made and delicious.
One of my favorite soups is Silonka. It has bits of just about everything cut up in small pieces and fried individually prior to cooking in the soup. Don�t pass up a chance to try Silonka.
Beets, cabbage, and potatoes grow well in the short Russian growing season, which is why much of their cuisine revolves around them.
Probably half of all Russians have a dachau, or a plot of land in the country, where they grow food. The growing season is from May to September. Food comprises about half of the monthly budget of Russians, so raising vegetables and fruit helps to cut a substantial portion of monthly expenses.
This is very labor-intensive work, as most of them do not have any mechanized equipment or irrigation systems. Water must be brought by bucket from the stream to irrigate crops. They can fruits and vegetables for the winter season.
Pork is the most common meat, followed by chicken and fish. Beef is not commonly served. They make homemade sausage called kielbasa.
Besides soup, the main staple of the Russian is thick brown bread, called �hleb.� If you are on a tight budget, you can survive on soup, pronounced �zoup� and �cleb.� It�s surprising how much they fill up your belly.
Draniki is a Belarusian favorite that is best described as a potato pancake with meat inside. Polish peroshkis are similar to Draniki. A dab of Russian mayonnaise is added on top.
Ploff is a dish from Central Asia. It is a spicy, rich dish, similar to Spanish rice. Frequently bits of chicken or lamb are added for flavor, plus a dab of the ubiquitous Russian mayonnaise.
Galipsi is a meat dish of ground meat and rice that is stuffed inside cabbage leaves. The meatball is first browned, wrapped in a cabbage leaf, and then boiled in a pot in a delicious sauce. You can guess what is put on top when served.
Polmeni is best described as a pasta dish with a special filling. Frequently, that filling is meat. However, cheese and fruit fillings are also used. They are usually served in a soup bowl with a special broth.
Russian salads are mixed salads like potato salad or macaroni salad, but come in much more variety. They do not serve leafs of lettuce with dressing on top as in America. A Russian would be insulted with such a serving, as if you did not want to put more effort into preparing the food.
Each salad usually has the ubiquitous Russian mayonnaise as a base ingredient plus other spices.
Usually there is a choice of two or three salads on the table. They put together combinations that seem unusual to an American. For example, there is meat salad and fish salad that is mixed together with vegetables.
Russians love fish, especially smoked fish. You have obviously heard of caviar, which are roe eggs from sturgeon. Caviar is relatively cheap in Russia and is a good choice of a gift to bring back home. They serve roe eggs from a variety of fish.
Russians like strong, thick Russian beer with their smoked fish.
When you bring a Russian woman to America, one of the best things you can do for her is to find a Russian store selling the delicacies that she loves. Whether you like Russian food or not, she will be homesick for food from her homeland.
I live one hour south of San Jose and two hours south of San Francisco. Frequently, we make pilgrimages to these cities to load up on Russian delicacies.
If there are no Russian stores near you, you can frequently buy goods through catalog sales from Russian stores in New York or places where there is a large Russian population. Where there are Russians, there is Russian food.
If you are adaptable, it is best to learn to like what your wife cooks. She is cooking to please you. If you really like something, let her know. If not, let her know that as well.
Personally, I have learned to like Russian style cooking. I don�t want to do anything to discourage my wife from cooking for me. She is an excellent cook.
I know some American men, who are married to Russian women, that don�t like Russian food. They are pretty rigid in their food choices. Pizza. American salads. Hamburgers or barbecued steaks.
Their wives don�t cook for them nearly as much as my wife cooks for me. I eat like a king. Learn from our experiences.
Russians typically put small plates on the table, rather than large ones that Americans are used to. You are supposed to take a small portion of everything.
Leave lots of room in your stomach. Stop before you are full. Your hosts will insist that you eat at least one more serving of everything.
My mother in law stuffs me like a pig. If I don�t eat enough to feed a longshoreman, she gets insulted and complains that I don�t like her cooking.
I gain five to ten pounds every time I visit.
About The Author
Leave lots of room in your stomach. Stop before you are full. Your hosts will insist that you eat at least one more serving of everything.
http://www.russian-luv.com/food.html
The Advantages of Web-Enabled Call Accounting
The Advantages of Web-Enabled Call Accounting
by Peter Verhoeff
What this means is that a manager or authorized employee can go to their PC, activate a Web browser, log in to the system, and access telecom reports right from their desk. This can be a tremendous time saver, especially at companies that have many branches. Of course, unauthorized persons have to be prevented from accessing the information, but this is a fairly simple matter with adequate user name and password protection. For executives to have immediate real-time access to needed reports can be of great benefit.
Instant access is but one advantage of a web-based call accounting software system. In this day and age most employees have a personal computer with e-mail capability and web access on their desks. This means that they don't need to have any special software installed to be able to access the needed reports, nor will they need costly upgrades. All that is needed is to provide them with the required login username and password.
Some employees may require limited access privileges by excluding more sensitive information that does not concern them. Normally, this can be coupled to the person's login by the system administrator, but it is important to choose a call accounting system that provides this capability.
Fraud detection is an important aspect of call accounting. This is especially the case, after the Sarbanes-Oxley act was passed in Congress in 2002, following fraudulent operations by companies, such as Enron and WorldCom. With fraud detection, it is important to have rapid access to call detail records (CDRs) in order to track down the culprits. A web-enabled call accounting system that can be programmed to issue alerts on detecting suspicious activity can be of great benefit. When shopping for a call accounting system, look for these features.
A further advantage of web-enabled call accounting is that the information can be accessed simultaneously by different users without placing unnecessary stress on the system. In particular, this is of great advantage to international enterprises that have branches in different countries. With web access, executives can obtain the needed telecom information anywhere in the world by using any web-enabled computer and logging in.
For more information on Call Accounting, visit Telsoft Solutions.
About The Author