Most Washington DC Suburban Middle Class Neighborhoods in Real Estate Housing Decline

Even with all the massive government spending in Washington, DC and all the overpaid jobs in all the corporations leaching off the government we still find that the economy is topping off. It is evident that this is happening due to the real estate prices locally fair in Washington, DC.

Many of the counties above Washington, DC in Maryland have a zero growth in real estate prices and have completely topped out. The prices are not coming down yet, but they will soon. It is interesting to watch Washington, DC suburbs and to the real estate growth, top and a decline, as it shows us that Washington, DC is suffering the same fate as Silicon Valley after the.com bubble burst.

In the suburban areas the low Washington, DC in Virginia there is a negative change in the real estate prices of between 2 to 5% drop and this has occurred in the last quarter and is expected to continue to decline. We will most likely see the Maryland suburbs do the same thing within the next quarter.

Eventually the federal government of the United States of America will have to stop spending and wasting taxpayers money and as they do this we will see many corporations laying off employees because they can no longer sponge off the incredible cash flow expenditures of the federal government. Of course Washington, DC although unique in the massive amount of cash flow coming from the government is not unique to the real estate market across the country.

It is interesting that so many people thought that this real estate boom would never stop. Apparently they did not study the flows and cycles of the real estate boom and bust that are so common to the Washington, DC area and the federal government's fiscal policies. Please consider this in 2006.

Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Christmas Shopping Make the Most of Centralized Discount Sites

In 1997, Donald C. Goodstein, associate professor of marketing for Indiana University, predicted a new trend, ?People have been thinking about the Web and playing around with it. There are a lot of people who may, during this holiday season, start experimenting with it. Goodstein cites the growing number of Internet providers for business and retailers on the Web.?

It?s hard to believe that was written less than ten years ago. Today?s shoppers think nothing of hopping on the Internet to buy gifts. They?ve long since discovered that shopping at home, via laptop or PC, is a great way to find bargains and to avoid crowds.

In turn, the retail industry has responded. Almost every merchandiser of size has a presence on the web, and many a mom-and-pop shop has expanded their business and their distribution through creating an Internet site.

While 1997?s online Christmas shopper browsed a manageable amount of retail sites, consumers in 2006 are faced with seemingly infinite choices. To make it easier for shoppers to find their way to the perfect bargain, centralized shopping sites have evolved. These sites promise the best deals from many merchants on the web. Froogle and Pricegrabber are two of the most popular.

One of the newest and most promising sites is Gonicofish.com, the brainchild of Gina Bassman, former senior financial officer for the Detroit Lions. There, shoppers can find bargains and coupons from nearly 1,000 merchants.

?I love working with Fortune 500 retailers and quality boutiques to bring shoppers savings on line,? says Bassman, former Senior Financial Officer for the Detroit Lions. ?My aim is to provide a fun and easy place for customers to ?catch? today?s latest deals, discounts, and coupon codes.?

In order to meet this goal, Bassman has partnered with merchandisers such as Amazon.com, Coffee for Less, Eddie Bauer, Office Depot, PetSmart, Target, Brooks Brothers, and Sony. The site covers all types of items, including jewelry, electronics, apparel, and baby goods.

Bassman found this niche in the on-line retail market through her own personal experience. She visited several web pages that claimed to pull together bargains and discounts from a variety of companies. She realized, however, that customers found it difficult to find their way around such sites. Consumers got lost in long lists of promotions.

Thus, Bassman set out to provide a free resource that is more convenient for visitors to navigate. Gonicofish?s unique selling point is that Bassman has created her own, easy-to-use web layout. Her on-line visitors can peruse the site by item, by merchant, or by selecting one of about eighteen different product categories, often including a special page just for holidays. Though her site is colorful, Bassman keeps it devoid of pop-ups, flash, and hype.

?I let the content have the spotlight,? says Bassman.

Centralized sites like Gonicofish.com are a good starting place for online Christmas shoppers. The following tips will help consumers get the most from these sites:

1)Before going online, make a thorough list of everyone for whom you wish to purchase a gift.
2)Determine your total Christmas budget.
3)Assign each person a dollar amount, keeping your total budget in mind.
4)Spend a fun hour browsing a central discount site. Note which products are hot gift items this year. Let product descriptions inspire your creativity.
5)Keeping the interests of each person on your list in mind, jot down two or three gift ideas beside each name.
6)If you are in doubt about the quality of any product, read online consumer reviews. These can help you know what to expect when you purchase a particular item. They can also help you decide if the item in question is worth the money.

With just a little preparation, online Christmas shopping can be a breeze. Who knows? Maybe, Santa?s surfing the net, catching the best deals that the web has to offer.

Elizabeth Alphin Mundie is a freelance writer specializing in finance and technology. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia's Henry Grady College of Journalism. She has served as PR specialist for The Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants, High Tide Technologies, LLC, and GonicoFish.com. She has written a series of articles about agricultural insurance for Progressive Farmer Magazine. She has contributed to and edited a number of church bulletins and web sites.

Helpful Advice on Food and Drink for your Backpacking Trip

If you are going out on an extensive backpacking trip then you will need to closely consider your food provisions. Food and water are important aspects of staying energized on a backpacking trip, so understanding the best ways to prepare and pack food can really help you plan a good menu. Food can seem like a hassle, but it doesn't have to be if you know some helpful advice that can make planning the food and water for your backpacking trip simple.

Water Tips

To make sure water is safe to drink you should filter it or add water treatment to it. Iodine tablets are popular because they are easy to use, but they can result in the water having a weird taste. One solution to the taste problem is to add sugar free drink mix to the water. You will still get the same benefits from the water and with the additive being sugar free you will not get the extra calories. If you need to filter water because it has debris in it you can use cheesecloth. For a makeshift filter, you could use a clean bandana.

Food Tips

You should try to carry food that is lightweight, durable and easy to cook. Anything canned is usually fine. Indeed, canned tuna and chicken is a backpacking staple. They can be dressed up a number of ways with other easy to carry items. Bread can be bulky to carry, and it also hardens quickly. An alternative to bread are crackers or tortillas. Make good use of instant items, like potatoes or macaroni and cheese. These cook up quick and are very lightweight. Also, you will find dried meats like jerky are a useful addition to your food provisions. Zip top baggies are a good tool too. You can store almost anything in these easy to pack containers. Try to pack healthy foods that also are full of energy like granola and beans. Another idea is buying army MRE's or Meals Ready to Eat. These are made to be easy to carry, easy to prepare and have a healthy balance of nutrients.

When you are planning your meals for your backpacking trip you need to keep these basic tips in mind. Food and water are your main energy source and if you are not eating right and getting plenty to drink it can have a negative effect on your backpacking vacations.
About the Author

Brian McGregor is a backpacking enthusiast and author. You can read about his latest ebook on backpacking recipies, including six free backpacking gifts at http://www.backpackingtime.com/backpackingrecipies.htm

How to Choose a Florida Vacation Rental

We have come to realize from
chatting with our guests that on of their biggest challenges is how
to choose the vacation rental villa that is right for them! This
article reflects their experience and hopefully sharing it with you
will make your choice easier...

Is a vacation rental villa right
for me?? Whether you are seeking a magical Disney World Vacation
or an active family holiday, a Florida vacation
rental villa is one of the most flexible options available to
you. Many visitors decide on a hotel or motel room which can
appear to be the cheapest option but these have several
disadvantages. As I'm sure you know if you wanted a suite of rooms in
a hotel that offered all the facilities of a vacation rental villa,
you would spend many hundreds of dollars per night! Limited space,
limited bathrooms, neighbor noise etc - we've all been there! The
convenience and space of a vacation rental villa not only make for a
much more enjoyable vacation for everyone but when things go wrong
these were an important factor for one of our guests when 3 of her 4
children became ill shortly after arriving. She was so pleased to
have chosen a vacation rental villa with the space and convenience of 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms as it
meant that the whole family was not wakened when some had to
get up frequently during the night!

Convenienceis probably the biggest advantage of a vacation rental - you
can come and go as you please and do what you like, when you like.
You might feel like a day by the pool on your own when the rest of
the family go out, and that's exactly what you can have - moreover,
its you by the pool and no-one else to share it with - bliss!
But its not just that. When you choose a vacation rental, you can
get your favorite snack from the refrigerator when you want it. You
can light the grill an cook up the meal you want - restaurant
food can be a bit boring, not to mention less healthy and more
expensive!

Location: This is another
important factor in choosing a vacation
rental! Its important to choose a luxury vacation rental villa
that is close to the attractions
that you will be visiting frequently. First-time visitors have little
idea of the scale of the Orlando area and the whole thing can be more
than a little daunting. Its made even more confusing by the vast
choice of vacation rentals available and the lack of clear details on
their location. We know that this has resulted in some families
traveling long distances every day to get from their chosen location
to their attraction of choice - not ideal! That's why we have clear
links to maps from our vacation rental villa details pages. We want
you to be able to plan your vacation and spend as little time as
possible in the car!

Quality: We spent some time
recently viewing and inspecting Florida vacation rentals. The
pictures on their web sites presented the villa very well in most
cases but it soon became clear that they had been taken a very long
time ago. Many of the vacation rentals we saw were very tired, showed
heavy wear and little attention to maintaining a comfortable
environment for their guests. They were certainly far form the luxury
vacation rentals they were being marketed as! These problems
showed up much more in the properties where the owners had clearly
taken little interest and were managed by property management
agencies (Large or small, and who, in turn rent them to the large
holiday companies at low rates). This is one reason why we update the
pictures of our properties each year (several times a year in fact!).
This gives our guests the confidence to know that what they see is
what they will get. Whilst booking direct with the owner does not
guarantee quality, it does give you the opportunity to ask if the
photos on the site truly represent the condition of a particular
vacation rental today.

Check in/out This is often
overlooked as one of these things that has to be done but be careful.
Check in and out is not usually at
the villa! Its normally at the management company office where
you have to wait in line with everyone else that booked through the
same company. This means that you have to drive to and find the
office from the airport. We know of offices that are over 15 miles
from the vacation
rental! OK - it doesn't sound far but after a long flight
and in unfamiliar circumstances, it can be a challenge you could do
without! Check the driving distances and times from airport to office
and from office to your villa via the management company offices. (Be
aware that if the office is in Kissimmee, it can be very busy and
take a long time especially in the early evening).

In contrast, we have an electronic
access system so our guests can drive direct to their chosen luxury
villa and let themselves in. The benefit of this system is clear -
and you have no keys to lose or hand back and you don't have the
unnecessary hassle of an office to find.

Locality: What we mean here
is the area surrounding the vacation rental. Careful examination of
the photos of some villas will show where they have been doctored to
hide any less desireable features. One of the favorites is to block
out the lower areas of screened pool enclosures to hide the fact that
there are many others very close to the villa. We do not enhance our
photos. Check carefully or ask if the pool area is overlooked.

Games rooms Some vacation
rental villas advertise a games room with all kinds of
entertainments. If this is something that you want to have in your
villa, be sure to inquire whether it is properly
air conditioned. The reason for this is that some owners have
simply locked the garage door and installed a carpet and a pool table
or foosball table to make a games room. Its fine in December but
impossible to use comfortably for most of the year.

Equipment Check whether the
equipment you need is 'included' or 'available'
and know the difference between these terms. Included usually
means that the item is 'included in the rent' for the villa. Its
important to know that 'available' usually means that the item is
available but you will be expected to pay an extra charge for it. For
example, a gas grill will cost you between $35 and $50 per week to
hire (+ sales tax). A cot, baby seat or stroller can be the same
each! That can make a significant unexpected dent in your
pocket - check unless the information is explicit!

Summary We hope that this
guide helps you make your choice of a vacation rental easier. We
think that vacation rental villas are exceptional value for money but
there are some traps which we have highlighted. Whilst we realize
that checking all these details might be a pain, we think that it
will help ensure that you have a much better vacation!

About the Author

John is a travel writer. He spends several months a year in Florida and has a breadth of experience to share!
Florida Vacation Rentals
More Florida Villas

Keeping Score on the Secondary Ticket Market

Take out a pen and paper for this parable. Herein lies an occasion of sports management at its worst and a paradigm of compunction at its best.

A baseball fan sold four tickets (with a total face value of $260) for Game 3 of the 1999 American League Championship Series at Fenway Park for $12,100 via eBay?s online trading service. Not bad for a day?s work ? in Ken Griffey Jr.?s case, an hour?s work. Nevertheless, the prevailing reasons to sway a ticket buyer to make such a purchase seems incredulous to the average fan. After all, not even the allure of an ALCS game between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, the anticipation of a Pedro Martinez-Roger Clemens match-up with biblical proportions, nor the ?priceless? moments, presented by MasterCard, between a father and son can be intoxicating enough for most fans to exhaust a savings account for playoff tickets. And yet, it happens every October.

Paying 4,554 percent above face value, in most instances, does not appear to be a rational decision. Of course, with a bloated economy, there is still trickling of ?irrational exuberance,? the euphoric buzzword of Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan.

Playoff time signifies more than just the best teams competing for top billing. It also brings out the biggest spenders ? some of which may not even be rooting for the home team, nor even the visiting team. Instead, postseason play cultivates an upper class with greater purchasing power, collectively, than some small countries. Quite often, these individuals are not season ticket holders, rather they only attend the grand attractions.

The economic medium that upwardly shifts the wealth of tickets is better known as the secondary market. It comes as no surprise to most economists why secondary marketplaces like eBay are successful. Fans can routinely utilize this online service hoping to capitalize on arbitrage opportunities, especially for sporting events. The unfettered pricing mechanism has created a mutually beneficial relationship for both the buyer and seller. Surely, Adam Smith would have approved.

However, Red Sox executives have not welcomed the secondary market with open arms. CEO John Harrington and his staff responded quite adamantly against the resale of playoff ducats. Rather than conceal their jealousy of season ticket holders assessing the marketplace more accurately, Red Sox representatives opted to publicly reprimand their customers, who abidingly sustain the franchise?s profit margins.

?Anyone who has resold even a single ticket to these playoffs will have his season tickets taken away permanently,? exclaimed Boston Red Sox public relations director Kevin Shea, prototypical counterpart to the political ?hatchet man.? Forget the palpable notion that it was the wrong messenger, and especially the wrong message. At its core, Red Sox executives have contradicted themselves by denouncing the same free market system that allows them to price their tickets through natural market forces.

The Red Sox would have little economic incentive if the federal government regulated ticket prices, so that the franchise and others would hardly profit from stadium revenue. The outlandish decision to formulate an ?anti-ticket resell? policy inexorably degenerates for two reasons. First, Red Sox executives have little leverage in executing this plan. Although eBay may nullify online transactions, if reported, that violate state or local law, the company is not obligated to do so. Second, they erode brand equity and public relations when threatening the fans. It is hardly blasphemous to recognize that not every Red Sox fan is a diehard loyalist.

There is no justifiably defense for the franchise?s recent actions. Clearly, the p.r. repercussions are disastrous, but also financially, there is nothing to gain and everything to lose. A secondary market creates a viable solution for maximizing actual attendance. Even in the playoffs, as evident by the Atlanta Braves? sluggish attendance figures, not every ticket holder comes through the turnstile. Hence, in the peak of their financial season, franchises operate below capacity and fail to reap the full benefits of having more warm bodies in the stands.

The opportunity cost of ignoring a secondary market can equate to losing millions of dollars spent at the concessions. Moreover, having wealthier fans acquire these tickets can only increase a franchise?s volume of sales.

Many other Major League Baseball franchise executives agree. In fact, some teams have adopted the credo, ?If you can?t beat ?em, join ?em.? The San Francisco Giants recently formed a strategic alliance with eBay, exemplifying how teams can use the secondary market to their advantage. In fact, the team?s web site, Giants Virtual Dugout, provides a direct link for Internet users to access eBay.

?New technology provides a way for franchises and venues to offer customers better access to the secondary market,? said Giants senior vice president Pat Gallagher. ?If managed responsibly, it can help long term retention of season ticket accounts and reduce the number of empty seats at sold out events.?

As Giants executives and others demonstrate more economic savvy, Red Sox officials face the unenviable task of restoring public approval and then reevaluating their marketing strategy. They should be flattered that their product was valued so highly, or be upset that they priced it so poorly. Either way, the franchise must reconsider its position on secondary markets or face serious consequences. Some Red Sox season ticket holders will face financial tribulation when making such large capital expenditures before the season just to procure their seating rights. Without a secondary market, the cost of holding unused tickets can add up quickly during the season.

?We want our seats, but the Red Sox have no business telling us how to use them,? a 1999 season ticket holder said. ?If they want to increase ticket prices, fine. Just don?t preach that we can?t do the same.?

Are Red Sox executives having second thoughts? Probably not. The correlation between a verbal faux pas and responsive management in professional sports is virtually nonexistent. Some franchise owners have mitigated corporate blunders by appointing stronger leaders to the helm. Others have addressed the exigence with grace and humility ? a suitable strategy in Boston.

Apologia may restore some of the damage by Red Sox executives, but this gross miscalculation will not be misconstrued with the ?Curse of the Bambino.? No, they committed this error without Bill Buckner?s assistance, entirely of their own choosing.

? 2007 LineDrives.com, Michael Wissot,

Michael Wissot is a managing partner at SymAction Communications, a corporate communications and market research firm. He serves as an adjunct professor of communication at Pepperdine University and a political analyst for KABC talk radio in Los Angeles. Wissot ? an expert in crisis management, messaging, public relations and Internet communications ? previously worked as Vice President of Luntz Research, a premier public affairs firm. He has moderated focus groups and conducted surveys for Fortune 100 companies and leading industry associations. Wissot, a former aide to U.S. Senator John McCain, has contributed to high-level messaging projects for President George W. Bush, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and several other world leaders and CEOs. He served three years as CEO of Dentistry.com, a leading dentist-matching company. Wissot received a BA from James Madison University, a MBA from The University of Arizona, and a MIM from Thunderbird.

Do?s and Don?ts of Investing in UK Land for Sale Market.

Investments in UK Land for Sale market have grown at a breakneck pace in last few years growing at a phenomenal rate of 960% in last two decades.

This has created a great business opportunity for enterprising investors to make money by offering the best combination of above average returns, linked to low volatility, combined with compound growth.

This growth in value of UK land for Sale has been driven by an increasing supply and demand mismatch. To add to this there is very little risk in such investments as incase planning permission is granted by the local councils, land for sale investors could reap returns up to 10 times their original investments but even otherwise with acute shortage of housing in UK, the price of undeveloped land tends to increase anyway over the longer term.

Thus the investment proposition is based on solid fundamentals and there is little chance that it could lead to creation of a bubble.

But on the flip side there have been complaints in recent times about unscrupulous players selling land in UK to unsuspecting populace without adequately informing them of pros and cons of such decisions and willfully withholding certain important information.

Thus it is imperative for any potential investor to do a thorough evaluation of available land investment options also it is better to trust established players with proven track record rather then trying upstart firms.

A customer should be wary of firms guaranteeing planning permission in short time or offering plots of land for investments at ludicrously low prices.

?There are no shortcuts to success? ? Goes a famous saying

It?s very relevant for UK land investment scene as while there is a golden opportunity for common investors to reap hefty gains by investing in UK land for sale market but this potential has to harnessed with great care and one has to be prepared for loads of hard work so as to identify proper land investment options.

Stephen Brewood
Buy Land For Sale in the UK.

A Brief Guide of Playing Backgammon Online

Prices Still Rising in Malta Property Market

upwards. Demand for property in Malta is plentiful and if forecasts are correct, prices could rise between 8 and 10% more this year; with buyers from countries such as the UK, US, Australian and many European countries, continually interested in this Mediterranean islands potential.

Demand for real estate, apartments and villas in Malta is buoyant this year and the Malta government are thought quite likely to allow developers to use even more land for building. In a country which is the third most populous in the world , this may mean the island becomes even less spacious although investors are expected to continue to snap up properties.

Access to the island of Malta is always of importance to foreign investors investing in Malta, and speculation still floats around about the the possibility of Easyjet flying to Malta from 2008; a move which could significantly increase the volume of visitors to Malta. Tourist would suddenly be able to afford long weekends in Malta with cheaper flights.

The prices of property and real estate in Malta could be affected with the January 2008 situation whereby MALTA will likely join the EU. In the past, the prices of property has risen quite well in many countries with the introduction of the Euro, and others when they joined the EU.

When the Euro was introduced on January 2nd, 2002, the value of property in countries such as Italy, Ireland and Spain rose very well. Prices of property in Sicily Italy for example, have risen on average about 20% over the last 4 years. A different situation is whereby countries have joined the EU and this has also had an effect although less significant than previously expected. It was expected that prices would rise dramatically as countries such as Hungary joined the EU a few years ago. Prices have risen but more steadily than expected.

With Malta and Gozo likely to join in 2008, it is certainly likely to be a positive rather than negative for the Maltese real estate market. With excellent weather and a relaxed pace of life, a lot of interest exists in Malta and Gozo, with rental opportunities also excellent. So, do not miss the boat - no pun intended!

Malta Real estate and property

Written by Paul Symonds MSC & BAHons.

For Some Fun And Stress Release Why Not Buy A Toy Airsoft Gun And Play Airsoft

So you like playing outdoor combat games such as paintball for instance. These games are great fun for all. Have you ever tried airsoft? This game is similar except you use a toy airsoft gun instead of a paintball gun. With this game you have to use the honor system when you are hit because you do not get shot by visible balls of paint.

You can play the game the same though and you can have teams or individual pursuits if you like. These games have been played by people who just wish to get out and have some fun and also by corporations who send their employees to get in deep with teem work. Some people just love using a toy airsoft gun in games like this so they can play out fantasies from when they were children or because they imagine themselves action heroes from the movies. Whatever the reason it is true that they have a lot of fun.

It is true that these guns are just toys but they really do look and feel like the real thing. You can find replicas of handguns, shot guns and rifles. You can get metal, spring, gas and electric versions of a toy airsoft gun. Depending on how seriously you like to play this game you can have the biggest and the best toy airsoft gun available.

What you do need to realize though is that just because these guns are toys it doesn't mean that they should be treated without respect. They should be used correctly as they can still injure you. If you have children then you should supervise them if they are to use one.

Another thing to consider is that because they are such amazing replicas, others may believe them to be real. So for your own safety and that of others you should not wave them around in public as though they are real. Many accidents happen this way because people do not know that it really is a toy airsoft gun that you are holding.

This is also true for when boarding planes. We know that since September 11 the security at airports has become very in-depth and the last thing you want is to be taken into custody over a toy. You should also remember that if you are planning on giving one of these guns to someone as a present especially if it is a child that you discuss this first with the parent as there are lots of people who do not believe in guns as toys.

It is funny as over the years these toys have become more prevalent with adults than children. We find that as we have grown up some of us still want to play games just like we did when we were kids. And we generally do not have to go far to find willing participants to join us. Especially boys or grown men. I think it is a way for them to de-stress away from the real world of work and family commitments.

I think it is a good thing for adults to go into an imaginary world occasionally. I mean lets face it why should only the kids have all the fun. And as long as it is done in a safe environment with safe accessories then it should do no harm at all. So if you wish to play this game with your friends, family or co-workers then find the best toy airsoft gun to suit you and your imagination and start shooting!
About the Author

Susan Dean is a successful webmaster and publisher of
http://www.airsoftguns-reviews.com
She provides lots of handy hints and advice on

How To Pass The Airport Checkpoint Quickly

The Backgammon Board More Than Just A Pretty Face

Have Degree But... Do I Really Want To Travel?

Have Degree

I received my nursing degree in May 1992 and have worked medical, surgical, rehabilitation, transitional care, psychiatric, and emergency units. For the past eleven years, I have been doing my prep work for travel nursing, but is now the right time?

I have always wanted to do travel nursing, but didn't think that I could until my son got out of high school in six year. And then... things fell apart at work, and my child kept on getting into trouble at school so that he could go to the library and be by himself to do his work.

Well, if public school isn't working for my son, and my current employment isn't working for me... Maybe I will get a chance to do travel nursing five years before planned.

I started looking on the Internet to find out if I qualify for travel nursing, and how much the pay rate is. I wanted to know not only the advantages of travel nursing, but also the disadvantages.

Why Travel Nursing?

I know some nurses who spend time as a travel nurse in an attempt to find a permanent home, and other just want a change of scenery. Travel nursing allows you to see the world, and still work as an active nurse.

I have always worked in a small hospital, what will it be like to work in a larger hospital? Is there any difference between a small hospital and a large hospital in attitude? If so, how will the large hospital attitude affect me? These are all the questions that I look forward to answering in my travel nursing experience.

I have always lived in the Western United States, why is life like in the Eastern United States? I have a friend who lives in Virginia, where my ancestors are from... I can't wait to make my scheduled Virginia journey in the Spring of 2005.

Some people travel because the pay is better, but is the pay

that much better? Is the pay that much greater that I can uproot my family every three to six months for this adventure in life?

Travel nursing also allows a nurses to pay off their bills quicker than staff nursing jobs, especially if you find a local company to ravel with; therefore, staying at home and earning that extra housing stipend a month.

No matter what your reasons are for looking into travel nursing, there are plenty of options out there, and it is definitely worth exploring this great adventure.

Written by Epstein LaRue, RN, BS, author of Highway Hypodermics: Your Road Map To Travel Nursing, Love At First Type, and Crazy Thoughts of Passion. http://www.epsteinlarue.com/


About the Author

Epstein is a traveling nurse and published author of 4 novels, including Highway Hypodermics: Travel Nursing 2007.

Things I Love About Google

The word Google is on the lips of young and old. Ask anyone a question and if they don't know pat will come the answer ask Google. Among the many search engines in the World Wide Web, Google stands apart. Its unique, exciting, innovative, and a pioneer.
Like adventurers of yesteryears that sailed the un-chartered seas, Google sails the cyber universe in search of adventure.

Easy to use, Google is a free service with a mission to offer at a click the world's information. A clever use of the mathematical term Googol, 1 followed by a 100 zeros, it just means infinite information presented in an organized way.

Google is not any ordinary set up its philosophy and commitment to cost containment just means that every employee in any part of the world is a multi-tasker and hands on contributor. Work and play are both inborn in Google staff that enjoy their work and are obsessive about creating search perfection. So, employees from all over the world, speaking dozens of languages, originating from widely differing yet colorful cultures have one thing in common Google is their life and breathe of fresh air.

It is simplicity and faith in its staff that has enabled Google to better the best. Every one thinks on the go and before a blink of an eye innovations are introduced -be it a spell checker or Google Number Search to facilitate use of Google from WAP phones. The keys to success lie in information has no end just beginnings, fast is better than slow, the motto is to provide instantaneous answers to surfer queries. The secret to the success is to focus on user needs and keep things simple. And do not stray from the path. The key is to concentrate on search.

What makes great business sense is the motto do no evil. This serves to reemphasize the business ideals and philosophies. In fact one thing people love about Google is that it stands by its beliefs. Google was unique in refusing to give in to a subpoena and submit search query records. On the other hand, Google has the sense to adapt to different needs, in China Google took a step in a different direction and started self-censoring human rights organizations.

Google has strayed into everyone's hearts and become a part of everyday life. Gmail, Gtalk, blogs, news, Google maps, and more. Whatever a person needs or dreams about becomes a reality and what more it is at no cost to users. Googlers are friendly, helpful, spirited, and inspired. They evoke admiration among internet browsers. Its not just service Google has extremely good business sense.

Usability is their aim and simplicity their secret password. Anything complex is not evident to the user. Google realizes that to be ahead even non techies, young and old must be able to use the search engine and different services. They should not be confounded by complexities. No frontier is too far and no problem too great. If a problem exists Google will make all attempts to solve it.

Smart, devoted, and dedicated are three words that can aptly describe Googlers world wide.
About the Author

Style Yourself like a Celebrity: Gorgeous Prom Jewelry for Every Dress

A dress without accessories is like a Christmas tree without ornaments: beautiful but oddly naked. Celebrities and their stylists know that carefully selected accessories can make or break an outfit. Coordinated accoutrements can tie your look together, creating a pleasing package, while clashing pieces can distract the eye and throw off your entire look.

While it's difficult to decide which of the myriad wonderful accessories to wear, you don't need a celebrity stylist to get it right, as long as you keep the following time-tested tips in mind. And remember: less is more. Wear too many accessories and nothing will get noticed, except the fact that you piled too much on.

Prom Jewelry
The most obvious prom accessory, jewelry, is easy to get right if you consider two things: your hairstyle and your dress. (Personal style counts, too, but only you know what suits you. Choose pieces you'd wear after prom and you won't go wrong.) Think also of color. Try not to match your dress exactly, but rather choose colors that compliment your ensemble. For example, a green dress will look great with deep blue or black gemstone jewelry. When in doubt, wear diamonds or pearls--they look great with everything! My personal favorites are freshwater pearls. In addition to white, freshwater pearls come in many beautiful pastel colors, like lavender, peach, pink and yellow that complement a variety of fabrics. Freshwater pearls are also surprisingly affordable.

Jewelry and Prom Hairstyle
Your prom hairstyle plays a major role in the type of earrings that work. If your hair is short or will be in an updo, you have tons of great earring options. Pearl, diamond and gemstone studs are always elegant, and have the added bonus of allowing you to choose a bolder necklace. Drop earrings look great too, and are sweetly feminine. If you choose a bolder earring, like a stiletto or chandelier style, keep other jewelry simple. The same goes for hair ornaments.

If your hair is long and you're wearing it down, you need an earring that can make a statement. Consider big bold gemstones or dangling hoops or a chandelier or stiletto style. (Think Reese Witherspoon, Queen Latifah and Jessica Alba at the Oscars.) Just don't overdo it by wearing a bold necklace or bracelet. One standout piece of jewelry is sufficient.

Jewelry and Prom Dress...
* Spaghetti straps: You have tons of great jewelry options here, but again, you want to pick subtle jewelry or one standout piece. Consider a wide pearl cuff bracelet and a pearl ring, or pearl, diamond, or gemstone dangle earrings and a diamond or pearl pendant. A bezel set diamond--or CZ--works well with a spaghetti-strapped dress. Just make sure, if you're wearing a great bracelet, that your date doesn't get you a wrist corsage.

* Strapless: The majority of prom 2006 dress styles are strapless. That's good news for jewelry lovers, as your prom necklace can really stand out. Choose something short to accent your collarbones like a princess length pearl strand or a diamond or pearl pendant. Don't wear a necklace that comes to the top of the bodice; you don't want the fabric and the jewelry to compete. If the necklace you choose is simple, consider adding bold earrings or a bracelet for added pizzazz.

* Cap- or short-sleeved: Play up your arms and balance out the dress' sleeves with tons of thin stackable bracelets (I love wood, shell and enamel, but not all together, of course). Pick a simple necklace and earrings, or go without. If bangles drive you nuts while you dance, skip them and choose a wide cuff instead.

* High-necked: Lose the necklace (it'll compete) and instead pair a high necked dress with a simple pair of earrings and an elegant bracelet in the same stone. Or stack several bracelets in lieu of a wrist corsage. Remember to choose a piece that won't compete with the bold neckline of this dress. Shoulder-grazing earrings are an option here if they suit the dress's style. They'll be dramatic and sophisticated for sure!

* Square-necked: A square-necked dress is the best setting to show off a beautiful necklace. Borrow Mom's pearls or Grandma's diamond pendant, buy freshwater pearls in a color that complements your dress, or choose a bold gemstone piece if the dress is jewel toned. Play it up here, but keep other prom accessories simple.

* V-necked: Matching necklace and earrings can pull your look together very well, as the V draws attention to your face and collarbones. For no-brainer options, choose a pearl set or a simple bezel-set diamond pendant and stud earrings.

* Plunging: Consider pinning a vintage brooch at the bottom of the plunge, or adorning yourself with a pearl choker, diamond collar or a plain ribbon. Don't wear a longer necklace as it'll detract from the plunge. Keep earrings simple.

* Simple: Lucky you! A simple prom dress such as a sheath, allows you to get a lot funkier with your accessories. The layered look is still hot, so consider piling on a few long gold chains with shorter pearl necklaces, or pearl-and-chain combos. A sparkly diamond cuff, a la Hilary Swank at the Oscars, (go faux!) always looks chic. Remember that you'll be dancing, so no extra long pearl ropes as you'll risk whipping your fellow prom goers.

* Ornate: An ornate dress is a work of art. Depending on the style and level of detail, you may want to choose a simple piece of jewelry, such as a diamond pendant, pearl necklace, simple gold chain or pearl, diamond or gold studs. Stay away from glittery jewelry that will compete with the dress. If the neckline is high and bejeweled, opt out of jewelry entirely and consider pinning something sparkly in your hair instead. A bold, chunky cocktail ring can work wonders here too.

* Vintage: Make it modern with multiple strands or stacks of bangle bracelets or layered necklaces. I like a few shorter gold pieces layered with gold and pearl chains. But don't go overboard: a dress that makes a statement should not be overwhelmed with jewelry. Depending on the dress, a beautiful pearl strand tied with ribbon or a simple pair of diamond studs can work too.

Remember, all top stylists worth their salt know that, when it comes to accessories, it's best to stick with pieces that won't overwhelm your look. The most important tip? Have a blast and keep in mind that getting ready for prom is almost always the best part, so savor every moment!
About the Author

Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for Moon River Pearls, www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com. Visit her blog at http://cafe.moonriverpearls.com/amy.

Heart Rate Monitor Strapless Review

More and more people are experimenting with small, palm-sized devices as part of their ordinary workout routines: heart rate monitors. These devices count calories, record heart rate, and can help anyone design a fat-burning routine that will produce results. Of all the high-tech features that heart rate monitors now have, there is one that?s changing the face of physical activity: the strapless.

Strapless heart rate monitors are the latest in heart rate monitor technology. While most designs are made to look like wristwatches, strapless designs look like small watch faces. The round, smaller-than-your-hand design is perfect for anyone who wants to use a heart rate monitor but doesn?t want to wear it all the time, or doesn?t want to wear it on their wrist.

Almost every company that makes heart rate monitors is now offering sleek, strapless designs that can clip on to your workout gear or come with a detachable strap that fits easily over your clothes during a workout. Some of these strapless models come with soft, stretchy chest straps for use while you?re exercising, so you can take it back off as soon as you?re done. Want to use your heart rate monitor the best possible way? Place it against your heart, with one of the many strapless heart rate monitors available on the market.

Small, easy-to-use strapless heart rate monitors can revolutionize your workout, helping you design a routine that will let you achieve those slim, sleek results that every body wants. Heart rate monitors help you find your target heart rate and help you find out if you?re even reaching it during your workout routine, much less maintaining your target rate. If you aren?t getting there, your body won?t get there when it comes to your physical fitness and fat-free appearance. Strapless heart rate monitors are perfect for fitness training. All you have to do is set it to record, go through your routine, and then look over the results so you can tailor your routine and hone your workout time.

Want to get the most out of your exercise routine? Want to reach your target heart rate, and stay there? Make use of calorie counters to see how much fat you?re burning and how hard you?re working, and even enjoy the time functions on your heart rate monitor so you know how long you?re working out and how long you?re staying on target. Strapless heart rate monitors come in a wide variety of styles and colors, so you can even find out that matches your favorite workout outfit. Want to get the most out of your body? Use a strapless heart rate monitor, and use your workout time to its best advantage.

Look online to find the strapless heart rate monitor that best suit your activity needs and fashion sense. The Internet offers a huge selection of strapless heart rate monitors, some of which aren?t even available in physical stores. Go strapless, and go for that perfect bod.

Looking for Top Brand Heart Rate Monitors at Below Retail Prices?

FITZZ.COM - Personal Health & Sports Products Home Fitness Exercise Equipment Online

Metal Building Kits

Metal building kits are a great alternative to traditional building. Companies that specialize in metal building kits provide a high-quality product that allows the home or business owner several options. Metal buildings are a sturdy, cost-effective alternative to traditional wood structures.

Metal building kit options exist for both homes and businesses. You can purchase kits for extra storage, sheds, garages, and even metal houses. There are also a lot of commercial and industrial options. You can find kits for airplane hangars, extra storage, larger buildings, and even correctional facilities.

There are many advantages to choosing metal building kits over the more traditional building methods. Metals such as steel are more durable than wood, especially in climates that have extreme weather. However, even if you are not in a climate with weather extremes, the extra benefit of durability is always a positive, especially if you consider factors such as fires, which can exist in any area. Metal buildings and houses offer extra protection against damage from things like fires, floods, and insects.

If you do choose a metal building kit for your latest construction project, keep in mind that it doesn?t necessarily mean that you need to install it yourself. Hiring an expert can save you time, money, and extra hassle. They have experience putting together kits and can do so in half the time. Also, mistakes made by someone who is inexperienced can end up costing more money in the long run.

Metal building kits are a great alternative to traditional buildings and structures made of wood. Metal buildings and houses are more durable than their wooden counterparts. Choosing metal buildings can also help save you money both on the design of the building and the construction. Since the kits are well designed and engineered, you can be assured of a high-quality product.

Metal Buildings provides detailed information on Metal Buildings, Metal Storage Buildings, Metal Building Kits, Commercial Metal Buildings and more. Metal Buildings is affiliated with Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings .

More Than Just Strollers

The Combi stroller line has a number of great strollers to choose from when you’re looking to purchase your first stroller. In fact, Combi has so many choices it can be a bit overwhelming. When choosing a stroller you have to first think about what you want exactly. Do you want a stroller only? Do you want a system that gives you both stroller and car seat working together? Do you want something that can accommodate exercise or two children? The great thing besides a lot of choices is that you can also expect most Combi strollers to be lightweight and compact. In my research I didn’t come across any Combi models that appeared to be a hassle. Whatever it is you’re looking for in a stroller, Combi should be able to accommodate you and your family’s needs.

Many of the umbrella Combi Strollers are lightweight, compact and come with a shoulder strap. They are also affordable range from very inexpensive to relatively expensive. The Combi City Savvy Stroller comes in a variety of colors not typical of strollers. Its fashionable, modern look gives it the Combi Savvy Stroller appeal for the city dweller. This umbrella stroller weighs only 12lbs and can form a travel system with the Combi Connection Infant Seat! The infant seat boasts a five-point harness and is good for the first year or until your child reaches 22lbs.

Also, available is the Combi Cosmo DX Stroller that comes in colors mango and keylime. The Combi Cosmo DX is one of many Combi lightweight tri-folding strollers and weighs only 13lbs. It is a reasonably priced duo-system you don’t want to overlook. The Cosmo DX (chocolate) is a top of the line stroller with a five-star rating. In addition to the mango and keyline models above, this version has a canopy and viewing window, front swivel wheels along with removable guardrail and washable cover.

In addition to just being a stroller, Combi offers a number of travel systems. This combination makes it a two-way system that functions to serve you and your child while you are out and about your daily routine. The Combi Cosmo ST Travel System accommodates the Centre ST Car Seat, which is part of the LATCH system. It comes with an energy absorbing foam that keeps the child’s head both cushioned and comfortable in case of an impact. The DK-5 Ultra Lite Travel System is another one to check out. This stroller comes in three different colors, is lightweight and portable. It also comes with a shoulder strap for parents on the go. I personally love the look of this stroller and at first glance one can see the ergonomics of its snail-shape build. And lastly, Combi also has a Twin Savvy EX Double Stroller. This Combi Double Stroller again, is lightweight and compact. It can also by itself once it is folded!

About the Author

LynnMarie is On-Line Editor for Babyage.com which is one of the top online retailers of Strollers with a wide variety of Combi Strollers for you to choose from!

Eddie Bauer Products

The focus of Eddie Bauer is to give the most innovative solutions in almost all categories of baby products such as car seats, baby strollers, gates, baby high chairs, play yards, baby step stools, standard bassinets, diaper bags, and so on.

Eddie Bauer car seats are available in the range of convertible car seats and booster car seats. Since the states have made it mandatory, booster seats are now a neccessity. Varieties include the backless and high back booster car seats. Backless booster seats have been found to be the lightest car seat and some high backs can be converted to topless as the child grows. The convertible car seats are widely appreciated as it can be a wise investment, and can be used till the baby grows into a toddler. Eddie Bauer Alpha Omega is one among the top convertible car seats. They also provide car accessories to amuse and see the baby such as, mirrors, shades, and car seat mates.

Eddie Bauer strollers are popular for the innovativeness in the designs. The tandem strollers seem to be an ideal option to move around with multiple children. The technical perfection of the tandem strollers will help to maneuver them well in the crowd or door ways. The light weight stroller is another convenient stroller. The single travel system is a specialty product, which ensures safety of the baby and comfort of parent, while travel.

High chairs are available in different configurations and patterns. The classy wooden high chair from is widely appreciated for its style and comfort. The booster high stairs in Swedish style is considered as special style product. Eddie Bauer also features a series of commendable baby furniture. The wooden bassinets are often referred as a standard d?cor of the nursery. The play yards come with many advanced features including remote control options and changing areas, in addition to toys and music. Since safety is a concern of the company, they have come up with stylish gates including wood gates and the hardware mount gates are often recommended as a long lasting option.

In addition, Eddie Bauer also features a collection of diaper bags. The range of diaper bags include totes and slings. Along with style, comfort and convenience are also taken into consideration.

About the Author

LynnMarie is On-Line Editor for Babyage.com which is one of the top online retailers of Eddie Bauer Products including a fabulous line of Eddie Bauer Car Seats for children of all ages.

By LynnMarie S.

Seven Simple Steps to get into a Fitness Routine

1. See Your Doctor: Before you start any exercise program or begin any
sport or hobby that involves physical exertion, get a check up.

2. Sleep: Get enough sleep every night. This is especially
important if you decide to exercise in the morning. If you
aren't getting enough sleep, you might just keep hitting the
snooze button in favor of getting up and exercising.

3. Set Goals: What are you trying to achieve out of your
exercise program? Just like when you are trying to lose weight,
you must set a goal weight, the same thing applies to fitness.
Do you need to work on your abs or your thighs or maybe your
doctor is recommending a cardio workout? You need to figure out
what it is that you want to accomplish and set out to find exercises
that will help you reach your goals.

4. Select: Find exercises that you like. This is very important,
if you choose exercises that bore you to tears... well, how long
do you think you will be able to do it? (This has always been
my problem with tummy crunches and video tapes... they are
so darn boring... I've found that a daily walk will keep me
relatively fit and it's not boring to me at all.)

5. Schedule: Set aside 30 minutes, 3 times a week for exercise.

6. Slow and Steady wins the race: don't try to do every
exercise you know on the first day, too much too fast and
you will crack under the pressure. Start slowly and build
up to an exercise routine that fits your lifestyle.

7. Stick to it: NOTHING is more important than your health!

Getting fit is a combination of exercise AND diet. Plan your
diet with the help of the NutriCounter, a fun and easy way to
monitor your nutritional intake. The NutriCounter works with
any exercise routine!
http://www.nutricounter.com/

Come and visit the NutriCounter web site for more
information on how nutrition influences weight loss, diabetes, pregnancy, heart disease and more!
http://www.nutricounter.com

-Healthy Questions to Help Make you HealthyJanet L. Hall

-Healthy Questions to Help Make you Healthy How to Organize the Health Area of Your Life by: Janet L. Hall
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Many people make New Year's resolutions, only to break them within a week or a month afterwards.

Many people either do or do not set goals for themselves. Some people have no idea how to set goals.

So, let's look at the difference between resolutions and goals.

Webster's New World Compact School and Office Dictionary copyright 1994, offers these definitions:

~~ Resolution-1 the act or result of resolving something 2 a thing determined upon; decision as to future action 3 a resolute quality of mind 4 a formal statement of opinion or determination by an assembly, etc.

~~ Goal-1 the place at which a race, trip, etc. is ended 2 an end that one strives to attain 3 in some games, a) the line or net over or into which the ball or puck must go to score b) the score made.

Notice # 2 in each definition and let's use 'losing weight' as
our example. (I use this as an example because it is the number one New Years resolution).

The statement. I'm going to lose weight this year doesn't
really have any meaning, focus, or structure.

The statement I have determined that I need to lose weight
and will walk one mile three times a week so that I can wear
the new dress/suit that is too tight.

See the difference? See how the second statement has more clarity and structure?

We have determined the problem, decided on the action we want or need to take, and what end we are striving to attain.

This is the way to focus on a problem, make a resolution, and set a goal.

I call this Goal-Resolve.

Goal-Resolve! What is this woman talking about?

Goal-Resolve: a statement that determines a problem, what action
you need to take, and to what end you want to attain.

Below is a list of the recommended traditional health tests
and exams you should have, listed with age and frequency of exams. The frequency suggested is for those of you that have no symptoms or any history of risk. Please consult with your doctor to find out if you need to be tested
more frequently.

Print out the list and place an X next to the tests or exams that you NEED to GET PERFORMED.

By the way, when was the last time you had a physical?

Physical
21-39: every 3 years 40-49: every 2 years 50-74: Yearly
Blood Pressure
21-74: every 2 years, more often if high or low Blood Cholesterol 21-74: every 5 years, more often if high Bone-density scan (DEXA or pDEXA) 40-59: Postmenopausal women with one or more osteoporosis risk factors or who have had a bone fracture and men should consult with doctor. After 65: every 2 years Breast self-exam
15 + : Monthly
Cancer checkup and health counseling 21-39: every 3 years 40-74: Yearly
Chest X-ray and lung function test Yearly for smokers; baseline check at 40 for nonsmokers
Clinical Breast Examination 21-39: every 3 years 40-74: Yearly
Dental Checkup
21 + : every 6 months Digital Rectal Exam 21-49: not necessary if no symptoms 50-74: every 5-10 years Electrocardiogram 40-74: Baseline at 40 and as recommended by your doctor thereafter Fecal Occult Blood Test 21-50: not necessary if no symptoms and no family history of colon cancer 50-74: Yearly
Hearing
21-39: not necessary if no symptoms 40-74: as necessary, every 5-10 years Influenza Vaccine 21-49: optional
50-74: Yearly
Mammogram
21-39: Baseline at 35, then every 1-2 years 40-74: Yearly
Pelvic Exam/Pap Smear 21 + : yearly
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) 50 + : Yearly
Sigmoidoscopy (colon examination) 21-49: not necessary if no symptoms and no family history of colon cancer 50-74: every 5 years Skin Exam (for signs of cancer) 21-39: self-exam every month 40-74: yearly by dermatologist Testicular Self-Exam 21 + : monthly
Tetanus-diphtheria (Td) Booster 21 + : every 10 years Thyroid-stimulating Hormone Test 65 + : every 3-5 years Triglycerides
21-59: every 5 years 60-74: at doctors recommendation Urinalysis
50-59: every 10 years 60-74: every 5 years Vision
21-39: yearly if you wear glasses; once before age 40 40-59: every 2-4 years 60-74: Yearly

(The above list was compiled from *Family Circle*- Your Personal Planner, Wellness Guide, Vol. 25, No. 15) If you are 74 +, please check with your doctor for their recommendations of frequency.

Some other vaccinations that you might need to add to your
list are:
~~Pneumonia shot at age 60 and again at 67 ~~Hepatitis B for those of you that are health workers or living with a carrier ~~Hepatitis A if you plan to visit Third World countries ~~Cholera, Typhoid Fever, Yellow Fever, and other diseases endemic to areas where you plan to travel ~~Lyme Disease if you live, work or vacation in high-risk areas or are exposed to ticks for any length of time. (The highest-risk states in the US are those in the northeast, plus Minnesota and Wisconsin)

If you have children or grandchildren, please make sure that they are getting their necessary and required shots.

Call your doctor, dentist, vision and hearing doctors today
and set up your appointments for yourself (and any loved ones) for the year.

Schedule a date with a nutritionist and make sure you are eating properly and getting the proper amount of vitamin supplements. Nutritionist in my area charge about $60 for the first visit. It was money well spent and
an amazing experience.

Talk with your doctor about exercise and what type is best
for you. It might be as simple as taking a daily walk.

If you're a business or SOHO owner, you MUST be healthy to meet the demands that confront you on a daily basis.

OverHalling your problem areas might be harder for you if you are already tired, dragging your feet, achy, sore and
don't know what's wrong. OverHalling is not easy! It will take time, commitment, energy, and strength.

Don't let getting healthy become a resolution that you break or a goal that you never accomplish. Make it a *Goal-Resolve*!

Smiles, not Piles,
Janet L. Hall

The Organizing Wizard, Janet L. Hall, is a Professional Organizer, Speaker, and Author of 'Secrets of a Professional Organizer and How-To Become One.' She is the owner of
OverHall Consulting and Organizing By Phone. Subscribe to her FREE organizing newsletter at http://www.overhall.com/newsletter.htm or visit her web site at http://www.overhall.com

Copyright 1999, 2000, 2001 by OverHall Consulting P.O. Box 263, Port Republic, MD 20676 All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce, copy, or distribute so long as this copyright notice and full
information about contacting the author is attached.

The Organizing Wizard, Janet L. Hall, is a Professional Organizer, Speaker, and Author of 'Secrets of a Professional Organizer and How-To Become One.' She is the owner of
OverHall Consulting and Organizing By Phone. Subscribe to her FREE organizing newsletter at http://www.overhall.com/newsletter.htm or visit her web site at http://www.overhall.com

-What is ALL this *STUFF*-Home, Office, and Car ClutterJanet L. Hall

-What is ALL this *STUFF*- Home, Office, and Car Clutter by: Janet L. Hall
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ (Excerpts from What is ALL this STUFF-Home Clutter Teleclass and Workshop).

Clutter and chaos in your bedroom could be the reason you wake up with a headache, a stuffy nose, or runny eyes.

Maybe you feel stressed out, depressed, fatigued, or distracted when you wake up to all your clutter and chaos.

We spend 1/3 of our lives in our bedrooms. A place we go to to find solitude, peace of mind, and slumber. But how can you expect to get a good night sleep or to awaken with vitality and energy with all that clutter facing you?

~~ What's the first thing you see when you wake up in the morning? ~~ Is it piles of clothes, books, newspapers, and mail all over the place?
~~ Are you stepping on and tripping over stuff on your floors? ~~ Do you just want to pull the covers over your head and stay in bed rather then face all that clutter and chaos?

Let your world stop for 15 minutes and announce to the world, This is the day I'm going to make a change in my life. Jump out of bed, throw back the curtains, open the shades and windows (yes, even if it is 20 degrees outside!), turn off the news, crank up some music and do the Toss In Box!

Get a box (a garbage bag will also work) and pick up everything off the floor and do the Toss In box! (TIP: Don't stop and dawdle over any items, we'll do that later).

Feel the energy?

Hip Hop over to the dresser, bureau, makeup table, and nightstands and take everything off that you don't use daily or nightly and do the Toss
In Box!

Feel the adrenaline?

Waltz on over to your sitting area, chaise, or clothes valet and take it ALL off and do the Toss In Box!

Now, doesn't your bedroom feel better already? DON'T YOU feel better?

Grab 10 more minutes, another box, a garbage bag, your car keys and sprint out to your car. Tune into your favorite radio station and do the Toss In Box. Get rid of everything that you don't use daily (please keep your emergency equipment). Get rid of everything that you don't need. Don't forget to check under the seats, in the glove compartment,
and the trunk.

Forget about those boxes for now. Get ready for work and with a song in your heart, another box, and garbage bag zip off to work.

When you get to the office take another 10 minutes and proclaim to your co-workers that you are changing your ways. Go into your office, cubicle, or workspace and start doing the Toss In Box.

Okay, now reality starts to sit in. You still have a lot of work to do because
you have to go through ALL that STUFF! Don't panic, I'm still with you.

Decide which of your boxes is the most important box to attack first. Set a date and time that you can start sorting through ALL that STUFF.

What's that I hear, But I don't have time. You have to FIND the time. Make an appointment with yourself and keep it, just as you would go to the doctors or attend a meeting.

Decide on a reward you will give yourself when you finish sorting your box,
such as a new outfit, tickets to the theatre or ballgame, or my favorite, a
chocolate milkshake.

I've developed a technique called TEASER which will give you 11 actions you can take to help you sort through your boxes of clutter. What? Teaser only has six letters...you'll see. First yell, What is ALL this STUFF!
Get a garbage can or bag, 10 boxes and label them with the following:

Toss it
~~ It's not yours, you don't know who it belongs to, it's outdated, it can't
be repaired, you don't need it. End it
~~ You don't want it, you want to cancel it, or you don't read it. Act on it
~~ Needs an action, such as your signature, phone call, or immediate attention.
Store it
~~ This will have three boxes: Current Stuff, Things I need to Reference, and Historical Stuff.
Enter it
~~ Information you need to enter into your planner or computer. Refer/Recycle/Read it/Repair ~~ It belongs to someone else or you think they need it. ~~ Use it again or put into a recycling bin. ~~ Something you want/need to read. ~~ Something that can be fixed.

Be ruthless, determined, and honest and start sorting ALL your STUFF by using the TEASER.

Your next step to take is to schedule a date and time (don't forget your reward)
to act on the items that you sorted.

~~ Call, write, or email the items you want to END or stop from coming into
your life.
~~ Decide how and where you will STORE your current, reference, and historical papers or 'stuff'. ~~ Sit and ENTER all your information. ~~ Pack up and take items that you are REFERRING to someone else, RECYCLING, or taking to get REPAIRED. ~~ Put READING material in area you like to sit and read and create a TO GO reading folder to take with you whenever you leave the home or office.

Congratulations! You have taken the first steps to overhalling your home,
office, and car. Keep up the good work. If you want to know more or need additional help with your home clutter, Check out a one-on-one teleclass at http://www.overhall.com/teleclasses.htm

Remember, YOU control your STUFF! Don't let your STUFF control you or make you sick.

Smiles, not Piles,
Janet L. Hall
The Organizing Wizard, Janet L. Hall, is a Professional Organizer, Speaker, and Author of 'Secrets of a Professional Organizer and How-To Become One.' She is the owner of
OverHall Consulting and Organizing By Phone. Subscribe to her FREE organizing newsletter at http://www.overhall.com/newsletter.htm or visit her web site at http://www.overhall.com

Copyright 1999, 2000, 2001 by OverHall Consulting P.O. Box 263, Port Republic, MD 20676 All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce, copy, or distribute so long as this copyright notice and full information about contacting the author is attached.

The Organizing Wizard, Janet L. Hall, is a Professional Organizer, Speaker, and Author of 'Secrets of a Professional Organizer and How-To Become One.' She is the owner of
OverHall Consulting and Organizing By Phone. Subscribe to her FREE organizing newsletter at http://www.overhall.com/newsletter.htm or visit her web site at http://www.overhall.com

New Housing and Planning Delivery Grant

As the report came that Ministers have formally begun consultations on a new housing and planning delivery grant (HPDG) in line with the recommendations suggested by the Barker review of housing supply the prices seem to be roaring in Sussex Farmland.

The news came when Farmland in Sussex are being sold by different Land Investment Companies and the government has already made it clear that this funding would be in addition to local infrastructure investment, give local authorities the flexibility to invest in their area and allow them to keep additional council tax receipts for new homes. Sussex Farmland is known for its closeness to nature and old buildings.

Seeing this the prices of the Sussex Farmlands are set to go higher and this leaves the investors with a dilemma of whether to invest in more plots of land, sell it or hold the piece of land so as to gain maximum.

A consultation document just published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) said the measure should:

- Strengthen the incentive for local authorities to respond to local housing pressures.

- Support increased housing delivery to meet local needs.

- Encourage local authorities to become very actively involved in the delivery of new housing.

- Return the benefits of growth to the community through new funding streams.

- Incentivise efficient and effective planning procedures.

The government's aim is that the housing incentive element would be awarded to local planning authorities and urban development corporations (UDCs) and paid starting in 2008 when the existing PDG regime is due to end.

The author is a Land Expert based in the UK.

Deep Thoughts About Healthy Lifestyles

If you are one of the 65% of Americans who are overweight or obese your risk of developing several different health problems is increased. Those health problems include but are not limited to:

?Diabetes
?Heart disease
?Stroke
?Gallstones
?Certain types of cancer
?Arthritic joints

Researchers say being overweight is the second leading cause of ?preventable? death in the United States.

We are often told increase our daily intake of fruits and vegetables as one possible means of warding off life threatening diseases. Below is a list of vegetables and fruits and the diseases they help us to fight off:

1.Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and collard greens, kale, kohlrabi, mustard greens, radishes, rutabagas, spinach, turnips, watercress. This group of vegetables contains cancer-fighting chemicals. Green vegetables are especially folate-rich and help protect the heart, guard against colon, rectal, mouth and throat cancers. Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables guard against bladder cancer. Leafy green vegetables help ward off stomach and lung cancers. Spinach, kale and other dark leafy greens protect against cataracts and macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of blindness in older people. Plenty of servings of cruciferous vegetables and leafy green help lower the risk for stroke.

2.Carrots contain beta carotene which the body converts to vitamin A. Carrots may help prevent heart disease and guards against cancers of the mouth, throat, lung, and stomach. There is also some evidence that carrots may possibly guard against breast cancer especially in women who have a family history of it.

3.Clementines, grapefruits, lemons, limes, oranges, tangerines all contain Vitamin C. Abundant servings of citrus fruits lower the risk of stroke, and guard against mouth and throat cancers.

4.Tomatoes is a common and popular vegetable that when served either raw or cooked can help prevent prostate cancer, guard against stomach cancer and possibly lung cancer.

As we age our metabolism slows down. A slower metabolism makes it harder to burn off calories. Muscle mass starts to decline. Muscle burns calories more efficiently than fat, so with a decrease in muscle mass there is also more weight gain.

Children, adults chasing after children and toddlers and jobs that are physically active may not be sources of daily exercise for people as they get older. Opportunities for daily exercise then becomes an extra chore we must seek after. Ailments like painful joints or back pain slows down our activity, which makes it harder to burn the calories we eat daily.

At any age, however, eating too much snack food and super-sized portions of any kind of food does not help a quest to fight off excess weight.

Despite all the challenges each of us face in our daily lives it is very much worthwhile to try and keep the extra pounds off and/or lose the excess weight we have acquired through little activity, overeating and eating the wrong kinds of food.

Even if you do not know how to calculate what is your normal weight it is simple to understand that taking in more calories than you burn off add extra pounds. Burning off more calories helps you to loose excess weight.

For anyone who has ever tried to lose weight, you probably realize this is easier said than done. Weight loss is hard for almost everyone who really needs to lose weight.

Rather than trying all the popular diets that works out ways to restrict calories you might try a few simple steps to see if this will work for you:

?Limit refined carbohydrates that cause insulin levels to rise and speeds up hunger signals.
?Focus more on vegetables and whole grains that are digested slowly.
?Eat less saturated fats and trans fats while including moderate amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in your diet. Remember that monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in your diet have proven health benefits.

No matter how many diets there are in this world I think everyone agrees that ?exercise? is a main component of healthy living. Regular exercise can help reduce your chances of getting a wide range of illnesses, keeps bones and joints strong and healthy, helps you to maintain vigor and independence in later years and definitely improves your mood and mental functioning. I say definitely improves the mood because just in general one might not think a simple thing as taking a 30 minute daily walk would help keep the mood level. Actually, it really does.

Study after study proves that fitness prolongs life. One study found that the simple, and for some, pleasurable hobby of gardening performed for more than an hour a week reduces the risk of death of cardiac arrest.

We even read story after story of people who live very unhealthy lifestyles, such as smokers, yet they exercise and reap rewards from the exercise alone. That is not to say, go ahead and live as unhealthy as you please and just do your exercises. It is just to say that for some people who refuse to live healthy lifestyles otherwise and who do perform some kind of regular exercise, the exercise has proven beneficial to those individuals.

Despite all the research, and written and oral material about the benefits of exercise, few people actually do it. Even worse than this is that studies show with increasing age, fewer and fewer people perform regular exercise routines. Women tend to become less active than men as they age.

We all realize that part of the problem is that ?routine exercise? is just no fun and especially for people who are already suffering from disabling pain in the bones, joints and elsewhere in the body. Some people worry about injuring themselves while exercising. And it certainly is true not all forms of exercise are right for everyone.

Even worse than this is we are told the most balanced and beneficial exercise routine is one that combines aerobic activity, strength training and flexibility. It truly is enough to make a person throw up their hands and say ?I give up; I just don?t know what to do.? We are constantly bombarded with this study and that study.

If you are in that seat of the person who says ?I just don?t know what to do,? you might begin by doing something very simple and then consulting with your private physician for some professional resources to get you on a uniquely prescribed exercise program.

The simple things could be:

?The normal lifting, bending, walking and whatever it takes to do those household chores.
?Hoeing, weeding, raking and lifting that goes into gardening delivers much of the same aerobic benefits of a more structured exercise routine.
?Changing activities helps ward off the boredom. Painting a bedroom can be pleasurable, mentally and physically invigorating.

Being a Veterinarian Today

A veterinarian (from Latin veterinae, draught animals) is an animal doctor, a practitioner of veterinary medicine. Although veterinarians hold doctoral degrees in veterinary medicine, not all veterinarians enter clinical practice. Those that work in clinical settings practice medicine in specific fields, such as companion animal or pet medicine, reptile medicine, ratite medicine, livestock medicine, equine medicine (e.g. sports, race track, show, rodeo), or laboratory animal medicine. Other veterinarians research areas of human medicine, veterinary medicine, and pharmacology. Research veterinarians were the first to isolate oncoviruses, Salmonella species, Brucella species, and various other pathogenic agents. They also helped conquer malaria and yellow fever; solved the mystery of botulism; produced an anticoagulant used to treat human heart disease; and developed surgical techniques for humans, such as hip-joint replacement, and limb and organ transplants.

Like all physicians, veterinarians must make serious ethical decisions about their patients' care. There is ongoing debate over the ethics of performing certain controversial procedures, like declawing cats and docking tails, cropping ears, and debarking dogs. In some countries, these procedures are illegal, and therefore their practice is contentious. The Veterinarian's Oath was adopted by the American Veterinary Medical Association's House of Delegates July 1969, and amended by the AVMA Executive Board, November 1999. It goes as follows:
Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health, the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.

Some veterinarians work in a field called regulatory medicine -- ensuring the nation's food safety by working with the USDA FSIS, or work by protecting us from imported exotic animal diseases by working for the USDA APHIS. The emerging field of conservation medicine involves veterinarians even more directly with human health care, providing a multidisciplinary approach to medical research that also involves environmental scientists.

More than 3,800 veterinarians in the USA currently work at veterinary schools where they teach student vets what they need to know to graduate -- teaching is another career path for a veterinarian.
Veterinary school is a tertiary educational institution, or part of such an institution, which is involved in the education of future veterinary practitioners (veterinarians). The entry criteria, structure, teaching methodology and nature of veterinary programs offered at veterinary schools vary considerably around the world. In the U.S., a doctorate of veterinary medicine degree (D.V.M.) (Or in the Veterinary Medical School at the University of Pennsylvania, a degree of veterinary medical doctor (V.M.D.) is awarded) is a four-year program. The program generally consists of 21⁄2 to 3 years of mostly traditional classroom coursework followed by the clinical rotations. Currently, unlike human medical school, a subsequent internship and/or residency are not required, but are optional to those who choose to seek further education and possible accreditation. Unsurprisingly, the number of veterinarians pursuing internships and/or residencies will continue to increase as the understanding of veterinary medicine continues to grow greater. A good veterinarian enjoys working with animals and their owners. Admission into veterinary medical school is so competitive that in the United States it is far easier to gain acceptance into either a medical school or a top Law School than to meet the GPA requirements for most veterinary schools. This situation occurs mostly because there are far fewer schools, allowing the schools to be much more selective. According to the US Department of Labor, only 1 in 3 applicants were accepted into a veterinary program in 2002. Prerequisites for admission include the undergraduate studies listed under veterinary medicine and extensive veterinary experience (typically about 500 or more hours) in private practice or other veterinary environment. The average veterinary medical student has an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 and a GRE score of approximately 1800. US graduates are awarded either a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or the less common Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree, depending upon the traditions of the veterinary school.

Public health medicine is another option for veterinarians. Veterinarians in government and private laboratories provide diagnostic and testing services. Some veterinarians serve as state epidemiologists, directors of environmental health, and directors of state or city public health departments. Veterinarians are also employed by the US Agriculture Research Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Environmental Protection Agency, National Library of Medicine, and National Institutes of Health. The military also employs veterinarians in a number of capacities -- caring for pets on military bases, caring for military working animals, and controlling various arthropod-borne diseases or other such things.

Veterinary medicine is the application of medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic principles to companion, domestic, exotic, wildlife, and production animals. Veterinary Science is concerned with the scientific basis of animal production, health and disease. It requires the acquisition and application of scientific knowledge in several disciplines and uses technical skills towards the solution of animal production, health, management and welfare problems.
Veterinary medicine is informally as old as the human/animal bond but in recent years has expanded exponentially because of the availability of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for most species. Animals nowadays often receive advanced medical, dental, and surgical care including insulin injections, root canals, hip replacements, cataract extractions, and pacemakers.

Veterinarians assist in ensuring the quality, quantity, and security of food supplies by working to maintain the health of livestock and inspecting the meat itself. Veterinary scientists are very important in chemical, biological, and pharmacological research.

In many countries, equine veterinary medicine is also a specialized field. Clinical work with horses involves mainly locomotor and orthopaedic problems, digestive tract conditions (including equine colic, which is a major cause of death among domesticated horses), and respiratory tract infections and disorders.

As in the human medical field, veterinary medicine (in practice) requires a diverse group of individuals to meet the need of patients. In addition to veterinarians, many veterinary hospitals utilize a team of veterinary nurses and veterinary assistants to completely care for healing, critical and well animals. Veterinary nurses are generally registered as veterinary technicians in most states and are legally qualified to assist veterinarians in many medical procedures. Veterinary assistants, who are not licensed by most states, but can be well-trained at facilities such as The School for Veterinary Assistants, are also becoming increasingly in-demand in the veterinary industry due to a wide range of treatments and services being offered to meet the higher expectations of pet owners in the United States.

About the Author

Freelance writer for over eleven years.

Veterinarian Uniforms Chef Uniforms Dickies Medical Uniform Scrubs

Help I Have to Evict My Nephew!

The eviction of a friend or relative is not easy to do. It has to be one of the most difficult lawsuits, if not the most emotionally draining, of all types of evictions. You may be one of the lucky ones who can rent to a friend or relative with no side effects. Still one day, there may come a time when you have to look your friend or family member in the eyes, and ask him or her to leave your apartment.

In the eviction of a relative stranger, even a long-term tenant, the process isn?t personal, just business. The tenant can?t pay the rent, so he has to leave. It?s the end of an association with more or less minimal emotional ties between the tenant and the landlord.

Evicting a friend or relative is one in which sides may be chosen, and lines drawn in the sand. Once the eviction notice has been delivered, do not expect many friends or allies to come to your aid. Depending upon the circumstances of the eviction, you can expect to have your life made miserable by anyone impacted by your decision.

This is because the expectations of a friend or relation are much higher than that of a stranger. If there is a tenancy problem, the expectation is that you will treat the tenant more as a friend or relative than as a financial investment problem. You will be asked to accept less than you normally would for rent arrears, to wait longer for your rent, and to accept behaviors that you would not normally tolerate.

For example, let?s say you need to raise the rent. A rent increase could be perceived as a betrayal of your friendship. Your aunt could think you are taking advantage of her. It doesn?t make sense, but when money is concerned, all bets are off. As far as a friend or relative is concerned, you are in his or her pocket. A belief that you are soaking your tenant for more money that you ?don?t really need? could cause your family member to not pay the increase.

Be clear and resolved about why the eviction must take place. Have all of your written documentation in place. Check all of your paperwork, rent cards, letters of warning etc. before you send your notice to quit. Make sure you have a leg to stand on before starting the eviction case. Conduct a due diligence of your property and the legal case.

Hard feelings will sometimes come with the rental and eviction territory. Do not expect to be able to discuss the case calmly with the offended tenant. Do not expect a cool head to prevail over your eviction action. If you evict your nephew, expect your sister or brother to be totally ticked off at you. Your friend may think you are a jerk for evicting her because she parties loudly every weekend, disturbing your other tenants. Your aunt may not come to your aid when your niece does not pay the rent.

When blood is evicting blood, much more blood could be shed before the battle is over. Few people want to be in the middle of a turf war. You may find yourself isolated and alone during the eviction process until the dust has settled. This is the reason why most landlords refuse to rent to a friend or family member. It is preferred to have only one relationship, than to confuse the personal relationship by adding a legal one.

How can you ease the pain of evicting a friend, relative, or even the relative of a friend? It could depend on how the person was moved in. Were you doing your friend ?a favor? by renting your apartment to him or her? Did your cousin have to complete a rental application like everyone else? Did you verify all references, employment information, credit check, former landlord information, etc.? Does the tenant have a lease?

Why is this important? Having everyone go through an application process regardless of their status with you establishes the ground rules from Day One. Without it, the tenant could feel that he or she was taken in as a friend, and then treated otherwise when things got tough. It helps to set up the lines of separation between the friendship and the tenancy.

So, what is the best way to evict a friend or relative? Here are some tips:

?First, do not take shortcuts during the legal process. In fact, do everything strictly by the book. A wounded friend or relative who knows your personal business becomes a worthy adversary in a legal case. He or she will use whatever information is available to fight you tooth and nail.

?The jury is still out as to whether or not you should serve the initial notice of lease termination personally, or use a constable. The friend or your sister will feel the sting of you starting legal action just as shocking no matter how the news is given.

?Exercise the same professional manner in dealing with the loved one as you would with a stranger. Try to keep your emotions out of the situation. Avoid discussing the case at length with your now adversarial tenant. The less said, the less information that can be used against you in court.

?Put any rent arrears payment plans in writing. Continue the eviction case, and present the payment plan to the judge. Have the judge enter the payment plan in the court decision. Then, if the plan is broken, it is broken with the court, not you. Your friend or cousin will be less likely to violate a court agreement.

?Some landlords hire an attorney to process their eviction cases specifically against a friend or relative. When your best friend or nephew calls you about the eviction notice, refer all comments and questions to the attorney. Resist the temptation to explain why you started the action. With an attorney, you are taken out of the middle position. Let the lawyer earn the fee by listening to the anger, frustration and feelings of betrayal by the friend or relative.

?If you need to take legal action against a friend or relative who is your tenant, do it. Do not be intimidated by their personal association with you. Your real estate is a business investment. If you remember this during the process, you will be able to separate the two relationships, that of friend or family member who is also your tenant.

No one wants to be evicted, especially by a person who is considered a pal and confidant. The bitter taste of humiliation, feeling of betrayal, and anger will remain long after the actual legal action. Before renting your vacant apartment out again, remember the experience. Decide whether or not the rent is worth the possible loss of friendship or family discord.

How To Backpack And Travel Safely In South America

Becoming a victim of crime is a possibility no matter where you travel nowadays - even when you stay at home! However, being aware of some of the popular scams and tricks that criminals and opportunists use to victimize tourists can help avoid problems that could ruin a good trip.

South America is a popular destination for world travellers and especially for backpackers, adventure enthusiasts and those taking a gap year. The country certainly has plenty to offer and a wonderful variety of landscapes from tropical beaches to the spectacular Andes Mountains, Amazon rainforest, Iguazu Falls, active volcanoes, and fascinating wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Many travellers choose to take in the exciting and colourful fiestas and carnivals, or visit the sites of ancient civilizations. (Tip: To avoid disappointment, tickets to visit the Inca Trail and ruins at Machu Picchu should be purchased in advance).

The best travel advice is to do lots of research and set off armed with as much knowledge as possible. Take a quality guide book and Spanish and Portuguese phrase books. Chances are that nothing bad will happen but, unfortunately, travellers are vulnerable and criminals know it. They will take any opportunity to separate you from your money and possessions! The most common crimes anywhere in the world involve theft and pickpockets and theft of passports is a huge problem worldwide. Care should be taken in places where it is easy to be distracted and forget to watch your belongings, such as airports, internet cafes, on public transport or while renting a car. Avoid using public transport at night or walking alone at night in isolated areas.

Thieves have been known to target tourists by pretending to be police officers, tour operators, taxi drivers, or other officials (for example, a real police officer will never ask to see your wallet!) Taxis should be booked in advance with a reputable company, when possible. So called 'express kidnappings' are a problem in some areas where victims have been held captive and their bank accounts emptied before they are released. Female travellers should be especially cautious, especially when walking alone at night, on public transport, and in isolated areas, as rapes have been reported. Be on guard also for spiking of drinks - a problem which has become more prevalent. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, leaving drinks unattended, and make sure that they are poured in plain view.

Be aware that many shops, bars, restaurants, and hotels may not accept credit cards in South American countries. Watch for counterfeit money and bogus ATM machines. In Peru, in particular, some ATM machines do not release credit and debit cards automatically unless a button is pushed - and instructions are not always written in English! It goes without saying that travellers should avoid all contact with illegal drugs or drug trafficking as the penalties are severe, involving imprisonment for long periods in extremely unpleasant conditions.

All travellers, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions, should have a thorough check-up and necessary vaccinations before leaving home. Diseases like yellow fever, dengue fever, cholera, and malaria are problematic in many areas. Evidence of valid inoculations may be required to travel between some countries in South America.

The above tips are just a sample of the knowledge travellers should be armed with before setting off. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office 'Know before You Go' campaign is an excellent resource for travellers. Their 'Travel Advice by Country' section contains current travel updates and advisories and the Travellers Checklist is another useful tool. Young travellers should pay attention to their Gap Year information. Avoid attracting the attention of police, keep the locals happy, and impress your travel companions with your awareness of local customs, laws and expected etiquette for each country.

Adventure travellers and adrenalin junkies will find plenty of outdoor activities and thrills. Activities like kayaking, white water rafting, surfing, hiking, mountain biking and mountaineering are popular. Care should be taken to ensure that the correct travel insurance policy is purchased which will provide cover for any potentially hazardous sports activities. Chile and Argentina are popular destinations for downhill skiing during the UK summer months and, again; don't forget that additional insurance coverage may be needed.

Many areas in South America are remote with limited access to good emergency medical facilities. If a medical emergency should arise, medical care or evacuation and repatriation may be necessary. Without comprehensive travel insurance the costs could be astronomical and mean the end of any further world travel plans for a very long time!

By: Jean Andrews

Choosing Moving Dates for Your Relocation

Setting a move date can be important for getting the best price for your move and for getting the best quality movers on the job. Although most movers like to move during the summer when the children aren't in school, selecting a move date off season provides several benefits.

In addition to picking the right time of year, there are certain days of the week and times of the day that are better than others for moving so you can increase your chances of having a smooth move.

In addition to being the busiest season of the year for moving companies, moving during the summer can create other problems. Many movers need to hire temporary helpers to get them through the busy season. This means that it's more likely the moving laborers handling your move will be less experienced and may be less committed to doing a good job than their year-round counterparts.

If you have to move during the summer, set your move date as far in advance as possible to increase your chances of getting your ideal dates to move.

When setting a move date you should also stay way from the very beginning of the month and the end of the month, though you may not be able to avoid it. Leases usually expire during those times of the month so moving companies see added demand.

If you have a choice, choose the morning over the afternoon on moves that take less than a full day to complete. The crew will be fresher and you'll have more hours of daylight to complete the move, if you need them. Likewise, early to mid-week is usually less busy than Friday for local movers. If they can't move on a Saturday, many people like to move on a Friday so they can have the benefit of the weekend to get moved in.

For the complete moving guide and useful storage and packing tips visit the =>Moving Companies Directory