I Met This Wonderful Girl

Happy New Year! I know..I know.. it is late to say Happy New Year to all of you. My apology for that.

To me, year 2007 is the most meaningful year. Many bad things and beautiful things had come into my life last year. It is just like a dream.

2007 started with a request for divorce from my ex-wife. To be exact, it happened at the end of February 2007. I did not expect something like that would happen to a nice guy like me ( ha ha...). So,...I began my new life...alone! I felt devastated, of course. I think, those of you who have experienced divorce would know what I am talking about.

However, in October 2007 I met a nice girl. No, not a nice girl. In fact, she turned out to be a very nice girl. A special one. I couldnt help falling in love with her. Here is her picture.

What do you think? :)

So, believe it or not, I feel like I am turning 17 again!

2007 ended with beautiful things because of Jenny, the girl that I am going to marry real soon! Before I go, here is another picture of her and me and her nephew..

Happy New Year......

Best of PAUL SIMON

A New Friend

So... she is my new friend...

Her name is Ki Kin...

She doesn't care whether it is raining or not...

When ever I come home, she always greets me with a smile

It's Your Fault!!!

I remember that in the past I often blamed people for many bad things I experienced in life.

"Because of you I am now suffering.."
"Because of you we are now divorced.."
"Because of you I lost my job.."
"It's all your fault!!"

This is the advice that my friend gave me:

When you are driving your car and you see the fuel indicator turns red (indicating that the fuel tank is almost empty), what do you do? Do you start blaming your car because it uses too much patrol? Or, you start looking for a Petrol Station to fill up your fuel tank?

Who will suffer if you keep blaming your car instead of buying some more fuel?

If you keep blaming other people, you are the only person who will suffer.

Now I can feel the difference. I feel happier because I stop blaming people. Instead, I tell myself that I am responsible for anything that has happened to me

Unconditional Love...Any Such Thing???

Love is blind.

Oh yeah, it is 100 years ago. Now love is not blind anymore. At least that's what I think...So, is there such thing as unconditional love between man and woman?

What is 'unconditional love'? Perhaps it is easier to understand the meaning of unconditional love by defining what 'conditional love' is.

I will love you if....you stop smoking.
I will love you if....you care for me.
I will love you if...you want to work hard.
I will love you if...you like travelling with me.
I will love you if...if...if...if...
That is my 'conditions' if you want me to love you.

That is 'conditional love'
Then, is there such thing as 'unconditional love'????

Abundance or Scarcity: What Belief Do You Choose to Engage?

For the last several years, I have included on my email signature the following salutation “Peace and Abundance.” This is a daily reminder that my success begins with how I engage my beliefs. For I know that it is my beliefs that drive my behaviors.

During a conference, one of my mentors shared a very simple exercise that I now use with my clients to demonstrate the power of how our beliefs guide what we shall receive. He asked those in the audience to take a sheet of paper and on the left side write the letter B for Birth and on the right side write the letter D for Death. Upon completion of this task, he then asked, “What was in between?” Answers varied from life to troubles. In his coy and quiet southern accent, he acknowledged every answer as being good, but not quite the one he was seeking. Eventually, he stated that what existed in-between birth and death was “just a matter of inconvenience.”

How many times have you visited the local gas station in the morning, swiped your credit card and upon completion of filling your tank, you failed to receive the requested receipt? The electronic message is displayed, Please see cashier. Maybe, if you were like me, you stomped up to the cashier’s counter with not the most pleasant face and waited in line. As you waited, you looked to your watch and counted the minutes that this delay was costing you. Then, maybe, you gruffly said something like “The pump said I needed to see you for the receipt” or “My receipt didn’t print!” The harried cashier printed out the receipt, you grabbed it, quickly mumbled “thank you” and walked out in a huffy hurry. As you entered your car, you were still very upset and those thoughts stayed with you most of the day.

Now, by engaging a mentality of peace and abundance, where we accept that we will face daily inconveniences, life begins to change. Yes, machines still fail to print receipts. However, now when you enter the gas station, you receive a smile from the cashier because you engage the belief that this is ‘no big deal.” Your attitude of peace and abundance has infected the cashier and she offers you a free coffee as well as an apology for your inconvenience. You calmly walk back to you car, receipt in hand and accept this minor inconvenience for exactly what it is – a minor inconvenience. You choose not to engage in a mentality of conflict and scarcity. The day begins with peace and abundance. Just imagine how far everyday you can go by engaging beliefs of abundance instead of scarcity?

Personally, I can attest that since engaging these positive beliefs of peace and abundance, I have received not only the pleasure of a smile, but offers of free coffee and even money. However, what is really incredible is that I now begin the morning engaged with myself and in control of what I allow to affect me.

As always, the choice is yours to make and yours to live with.

By Leanne Hoagland-Smith
Leanne Hoagland-Smith helps individuals and organizations to double results usually within 2 to 12 weeks. She secures lifelong change through proven processes. If at least doubling your revenue, improving your organizational culture or finding balance interests you, visit www.processspecialist.com or ask to subscribe to complimentary copy of Power Choices a monthly newsletter at info@processspecialist.com
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

Keys To Happiness

Most people honestly believe that they will be happy when they are able to get a job they want, but when they get it, they won’t be. They feel that they will be happy once they have a nice house- but they won’t be. Then they will be happy when they have put in everything neatly so that they can call the house their home – but they won’t be. Then a fancy car, an exotic vacation, etc. etc. but happiness seems to be eluding them. Is it really possible to have permanent happiness?

Search of happiness is one of the basic purposes of human life. However, it is also the source of greatest frustration. Many successful people who had been super-achiever feel the futility of their efforts that has gone in the pursuit of happiness. Unfortunately many of them actually feel more depressed and unhappy even if they win the rat race of the material world. There are some others who seek happiness in drugs, alcohol, illicit relationships, gambling and immoral conduct. But it all ultimately destroys the person rather than giving what the person seeks for.

The main reason for this frustrating situation is that most people fail to differentiate between joy or pleasure and real happiness. All the material things in life can actually give joy and pleasure, and that is momentary. It lasts for a while and then extinguishes, like a lamp that gives light till the oil lasts. A new house, a fancy car or an exotic vacation will give joy for a while. But then as the novelty wears of, it will no longer be a source of pleasure. Bhagwat Gita points out that everything in this material world is temporary and that every human being is living in illusion. And this is the cause of all miseries.

Happiness therefore is not in material things, but in certain things that money can not buy. These are the keys or principles that can open door to happiness, irrespective of the situation or circumstances one is in. This is evident from the fact that many families with limited means seem more happy than those who are financially blessed. So, what are these secret keys of happiness?

Physical Health: You have surely heard that health is wealth. We experience everything through our body. It is our body through which we make the efforts that brings results. Therefore it is important to keep healthy physically to experience happiness. In today’s world that is full of rat race, people often neglect their health. Lack of physical exercise, unbalanced diet, pollution, stress, all takes toll on our health. To top it, we try to gratify ourselves by involving into drugs, alcohol, tobacco etc, in the process spoiling our physical well being. Of course there is no happiness in indulging in pleasures all night and then getting up sick in the morning. Therefore, a healthy body is the first key to happiness.

Keeping Healthy Mind: Like physical health, it is important to keep a healthy mind. I believe that it is more important, as healthy body often follows healthy mind. Happiness is more in the mind of an individual than anywhere else.

Mental health comprises of a high self-image, positive mental attitude and strong value systems. Like we eat and exercise to keep our body healthy we must also feed our mind on a regular basis with strong positive thoughts, otherwise the mental health may fall victim to the countless negativities that exist in the world. Reading good books, listening to powerful recording and associating with positive and progressive people are the best ways to keep a healthy mind.

Spiritual Well-being: Man is a spiritual being and happiness is a spiritual feeling. Many religions in the world advocates that the only way to eternal happiness and bliss is in service of God, the ultimate spiritual authority. This however, does not mean that we renounce the world and become a hermit. In fact, serving other people in this world is the best way to serve God. That is why we feel internal happiness when we do something for others without any selfish motive.

Having faith, praying for others and helping others through our action are often enough for our spiritual well-being. On the contrary, harming others, seeking revenge, victimizing, using dishonest means lowers our worth of self and leads to spiritual bankruptcy, and robs us our peace of mind.

Hard Work: Man is engineered to produce abundance with his efforts. Laziness is one of the greatest reasons for sorrow in this world. People who believe in honest hard work are the one who are far happier than the one who tries to profit by dishonest and seemingly easy means. Hard work is required for good health: physical, mental and spiritual, as well as for maintaining good relationships, and material success. A person, who believes in hard work, has high self image and creates security that gives peace of mind that is essential for happiness.

Hope: Nothing is possible without hope. Hope is one thing that keeps the person going on even in worst situations. You can never be happy if you have no hope. ‘Hope’ is the belief that the thing will get better, than what they are now. A person who has lost hope will loose his health, spiritual connection and will take no action to improve his situation. Since everything that we do is with a hope for better tomorrow, hope remains an important key to happiness.

Since, success is not a destination but a journey and happiness is an important ingredient of success, we feel happy as we move on. Reaching a destination may give us joy, but it is the endeavor to reach and the belief that we can reach further is what gives us happiness. Happiness is in playing the game not in winning. So, make happiness a major goal in your life and test all your other goals against it to live a happy life.

By Vivek Ray

Vivek Ray is a Success trainer, Motivator and Inspirational speaker. In order to take control of your life and step by step guidance for success visit his free self improvement and mentorship portal http://www.success-attitude.com/. You can also email him to seek personal guidance, and subscribe to a free inspirational newsletter on this site.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com/

20 Friendship Inspirational Quotes

Here are 20 famous quotes on friendship inspiration. Some of these quotes are by famous personalities and philosophers and some from the Holy Bible.

• "A friend loves at all times."-- The Bible: Proverbs 17, 17.

• One who looks for a friend without faults will have none.-- Hasidic Saying

• What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies. -- Aristotle

• Remember, the greatest gift is not found in a store nor under a tree, butin the hearts of true friends.-- Cindy Lew

• We got friends to make up for our relatives-- Anonymous

• A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.-- Walter Winchell

• The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.-- Abraham Lincoln

• Friends are needed both for joy and for sorrow.-- Samuel Paterson

• Who finds a faithful friend, finds a treasure.-- Jewish Saying

• "A faithful friend is the medicine of life."-- Apocrypha

• "The best mirror is an old friend."--George Herbert

• "A companion loves some agreeable qualities which a man may possess, but afriend loves the man himself."-- James Boswell (1763)

• "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe unto himthat is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up."-- The Bible: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.

• "The rain may be falling hard outside,But your smile makes it all alright.I'm so glad that you're my friend.I know our friendship will never end."-- Robert Alan

• A friend hears the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memoryfails.-- Anonymous• "The only way to have a friend is to be one."-- Ralph Waldo Emerson

• A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway.-- Fr. Jerome Cummings

• Friendship is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world.-- John Evelyn

• "Wishing to be friends is quick work, but friendship is a slow-ripeningfruit."-- Aristotle (4th century B.C.)

• "Friendship is a strong and habitual inclination in two persons to promotethe good and happiness of one another."-- Eustace Budgell (1711)

Author: Jennifer Oakley

"The Secret" on Oprah Parody by Saturday Night Live - SNL

Positive Attitude: How To Have A Positive Attitude In 7 Simple Steps

Have you ever looked at people who always seem happy and enjoy life with envy and wish you could be more like them?

Have you ever said to yourself

"Why is it that they are always so popular and seem to attract everyone to them like a magnet?"

Did you ever stop to think that it might just be their positive attitude and the way they look at - and react to - the world around them?

Positive attitude is very important to being successful and happy.

Have you ever looked at people who always seem happy and enjoy life with envy and wish you could be more like them? Have you ever said to yourself "Why is it that they are always so popular and seem to attract everyone to them like a magnet?" Did you ever stop to think that it might just be their positive attitude and the way they look at - and react to - the world around them?

Thinking and acting with a positive attitude can do more than anything else towards getting you whatever you want out of life, because those who are in positions to make things happen for you will want to be around you, and want to work with you to help make your dreams a reality.

Having a positive attitude in whatever you do will make things easier, and even more enjoyable.
Here are seven simple but powerful tips to having a more positive attitude - and thus becoming a more powerful person.

1. Take passionate action towards living your life.
Don't just make it through the day, live it. Sink your teeth into it and live it like it was your last day on earth. Wring every moment out of it and live each day with passion. Passion and a positive attitude are contagious. You will find others attracted to you who are just as passionate about life and living.

2. Act instead of reacting.
Don't wait until something bad happens then try to deal with it. Be proactive and make something good happen. You are responsible for what you make of the life you have, and you only have one, so don't waste it. Create the best life you possibly can, one day at a time.

3. Believe that each moment is perfect regardless of its outcome.
Bad things happen. That is a fact of life. but that doesn't mean you have to allow it to drag you down. Good can come from everything, no matter how bad it may be at the time. Learn to open yourself up to learn from, and gain strength from, the bad things that happen in your life. Learning to have a positive attitude even when bad things are happening will help you to get through the bad times even stronger and more determined to succeed.

4. Learn to always be grateful for what you have.
It's a well-known fact among successful people that having gratitude will get you more than never being satisfied. There's nothing wrong with having dreams and goals and desiring more out of life, but don't forget to be grateful for what you have already. Those who are never satisfied or grateful with what they have get into a "needy" ot "poverty" mindset, where they think they never have have anything, and are doomed to never having anything.
A positive attitude attracts positive actions. Gratitude attracts positive energy.

5. Seize every opportunity that you can instead of regretting it later.
Now, whatever you do, don't put yourself in the poorhouse or take food out of your childrens' mouths, chasing every get-rich-quick scheme that comes around the corner. But don't be afraid to take opportunities that feel right either. Successful people have taught themselves to have a sixth sense when it comes to taking advantage of new opportunities.

6. Always keep your sense of humor.
People like to be around those who find humor in even the most awkward moments. Learn to laugh and you will be more positive, especiall if you can learn to laugh at yourself. don't take yourself, or life, too seriously. Life is much too short to waste it moping around in self pity. Humor is very attractive. A positive attitude can be born from a strong sense of humor.

7. Believe that you are in charge of your destiny.
No one can take your dreams from you except for you. As long as there's still breath in your body, there is no limit to how much can accomplish. Life is not something that is going on around you. It is what you make of it. And even by doing nothing you are still creating your life, so why not get involved and create a life you want and can enjoy?

Anyone who is truly successful, who enjoys life and has a life to be proud of, has a positive attitude. If you use these seven steps to help you have a positive attitude, then you too will have a life worth living. Just remember, it all starts with learning to have a positive attitude.

By Ken Harness

Let success coach Ken Harness lead you beyond self improvement to the next level - self empowerment.Subscribe to his free Self Improvement Newsletter today at http://www.getmotivatednow.com

Krell KAV-400xi integrated amplifier

This is a value-for-money integrated amplifier for you! The most 'affordable' from Krell and it offers so much...sweet treble, awesome bass,..what else do we want?

KAV-400xi replaces the already good KAV-300i with little price increase. I think, if you are looking for a great integrated amplifier, don't pass this one. Book an audition at your local audio store...

I Need More Money...

Hey, I need more money to pay the bills. I need more money to buy a new fridge. I need more money to replace my old TV set to the new LCD flat screen that my neighbour has. I need ...I need... I need...

So, you work harder..and harder.. and harder.

People say," Shop till you drop". I say,"Work till you drop.."

Some people think that they will be happy if they can have these stuff and those stuff. Until then, they are not happy. How many of us are unhappy with our lives because we can not achieve what we want (as apposed as what we need).

It's completely OK if we desire money or a new TV set or whatever your heart desires. Feeling grateful of what we have now is the key to happiness. In fact, feeling grateful of what we have NOW is one of the keys of receiving more 'blessing' in our lives!

Tips for Increasing Your Income Quickly and Effortlessly

The Internet is full of tips for increasing your income quickly and effortlessly. Some of those tips are working, some aren't – at least for you. But there is an old theory (the so-called Law of Attraction ), which recently gained popularity thanks to “The Secret” movie. If you have tried many other ways to increase your income quickly and effortlessly but there were no results, you should give the Law of Attraction a try and you might finally succeed in making the right choice for earning money.

You might actually be using the Law of Attraction principles but are unaware of that fact. Or maybe you already know about how the Law of Attraction can help you increase your income quickly and effortlessly but you are somehow skeptical about it or you are not trying hard enough. If you want to succeed, you've got to believe and to stay focused in your thoughts. Here are some suggestions how to improve your efforts in that direction:

Get focused on how you spent the money. Thinking about money is not a magnet in itself. Thinking of how you spend this money is a stronger magnet because there is more energy and emotion, when you visualize yourself buying the stuff you want, or visiting the places you have always wanted to visit, or simply doing the things that you always wanted to do, if you had the money. Think about getting money NOW. Focus your thoughts on you spending money NOW, not some time in the future . Short-term thoughts have stronger vibes and this increases your chances of getting the money.

Come to friendly terms with your present financial situation. Being unhappy about your present financial situation is a sure way to get more financial trouble. Instead, start thinking of how you can get out of it. But again, your thoughts need to be positively tuned, so that you can attract good things to you.

Think of ways of earning money. When you think of how you are spending your money, it is most likely that you will also get ideas of the ways to make them. Think of usual ways of increasing your income quickly and effortlessly like getting a second job, making a debt consolidation or refinance plans to cut your debt spendings, selling stuff you can make at home, starting your own business, etc. There are really plenty of ways to get additional income. Be persistent. After you have got the ideas of how to make more money, focus your thoughts on this. Imagine yourself getting fat checks for your goods or services. It is up to you to decide where your talents are. For instance, you might be a good cook. Then imagine yourself selling your homemade cookies all over the city, then all over the state and the country.

Think of online business opportunities. Finally, if you can't think of any talents you have, consider online business opportunities. This is a new area and it does not need solid investment in order to succeed. You can start your own blog or site and earn lots of money with it.

As you see, there are many ways to increase your income quickly and effortlessly using the Law of Attraction. You just need to decide that you want to do it and the forces of the Universe will help you achieve it!

By David Hooper
David Hooper is the author of Law of Attraction - How to Attract Money,Love, and Happiness. You can learn how to attracted more money in yourlife for free by visiting his law of attraction website
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com/

Make Money Fast – A Simple Method Anyone Can Master PART 1

Most people dream of making money fast, but that’s all it is a dream.
If you want to turn your dreams into reality, then you need to a specific way to do it. The method does not involve much money and you don’t need above average intelligence. Here we are going to give you a method anyone can master.

We are going to look at “the turtles” (don’t worry if you have never heard of them)
This was a group of people who were taught in 14 weeks to do a specific task and they went on to make millions.

What were they doing?

They were taught to be financial traders, before you say:

I couldn’t do that, or it would need a lot of capital consider this:

1. Trading is essentially simple
You can learn it just as the turtles did – all you need to do is learn the right knowledge

2. You only need some seed capital
You can get started with just a few thousand dollars and best of all you can make your money work harder by leveraging it.

3. Leverage
If you deposit money with a broker they will let you trade 100 – 400 times the amount.
If you have in your account so if you had $10,000 you could massively leverage your investment and trade over a million.

Now, leverage is of course a double edged sword.

While rewards can be fantastic, risk can be high to.

You therefore need to get the risk reward on your side and this involves trading with the right method.

4. Getting the RIGHT Method
You need to get the right method that will give you low risk and will let you run profits.

We will discuss breakout methodology ( used by the turtles ) and other tools of top traders in the next part of this article.

5. How Long will it take to learn to be a trader?
The turtles did it in 14 days of intense direction from legendary trader Richard Dennis. While you may not do it so quickly, it should take no longer than a month to master the basics. You will then have a method you can test to see if it will work.

Trading financial markets represents the final frontier of the free economy.

Trading is one of the few ways for small potato investors to start with small stakes and make money fast - compounding it quickly, to build real wealth quickly.

YOU CAN DO IT
Everything about financial trading can be learned. You don’t need above average intelligence, just a burning desire to succeed, the ability to learn the right knowledge and some seed capital.
We will look at the methods of the great traders in part 2 and give you an insight into the knowledge you will have to learn, to make money fast trading global financial markets.

By Sacha Tarkovsky
FREE ESSENTIAL TRADER PDF'S AND MUCH MORE
On all aspects of becoming a profitable trader even if you have never traded before. Grab some great FREE Trading PDF's and visit our website at http://www.net-planet.org/index.html
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

How To Create Financial Freedom

Achieve Financial Freedom with Feng Shui

It's the middle of the month and you are still struggling to pay the mortgage, car payment, and make sure the electric company doesn’t turn off your power. The kids need new clothes and shoes; the fridge is bare, and just once you want to be able to get through a month of bills without the never-ending agony. You've been there, you know you have. We all have. Most families and individuals struggle financially from time or time or constantly. It happens.

The frustrating part is that most of us work hard, try to be money savvy, and do without the little things to make sure that paycheck stretches. Some of us take second jobs just to make ends meet. The result of all of this work and feeling of treading water leaves us with a horrible energy imbalance. Even if the ideas of chi and energy are unfamiliar to you, you still feel the results. You don't have patience with your children or spouse. On a personal level you know something isn't right. You're constantly tired and ill tempered. It's time to get rid of your money worries once and for all. With the use of Feng Shui, financial freedom isn't just a pipe dream. You can create the positive energy flows necessary to achieve peace of mind.

It's no secret that money comes from work. For this reason, your work space is where you should focus your energy to produce a more balanced, harmonious environment. For those who work in an office outside their home, there are certain steps you can take to increase your wealth and productivity at work. It all adds up to positive steps in the right direction on the road to financial freedom.

Let's take a look at how your desk is placed in the office. If at all possible your desk should be placed either directly facing or on a diagonal to the main door of your office. Under no circumstances should you sit with your back to the door. It is also important in Feng Shui to check door alignment. In other words if the office door across the hall isn't in line with your office, use a mirror to promote the constant flow of energy. Not everyone has full walls in their work area. If you have partitions or partial walls, the use of mirrors is helpful here as well.

With the furniture in your work space placed properly, you can focus on more Feng Shui tips to improve your financial freedom. Plants are a tremendous help in this regard. Being green and full of life, plants will help to encourage growth and life in your job and money making ability. If you don't have the time or inclination to grow a plant, artificial ones are just as effective. You have to be sure to keep them dusted and clean.

Finally focus on the decorations you place in your area. When you work outside the home, it may be easier on you to use things that aren't obviously Feng Shui. The last thing the energy flow needs is negative comments and feelings from others. Luckily, Feng Shui works just as well with any type of décor as long as the placement is correct. Pictures and paintings are great for this purpose. Choose images that represent a variety of different elements and aspects of total balance. Any image that inspires positive feelings in you will help a lot.

On the home front, the home office Feng Shui rules is similar to the ones for outside office space. Obviously there are a few differences. If at all possible, have a separate entrance into your office. If that isn't possible, place the space separate from your living quarters. This way you are able to separate work from home. In the event that your office must be part of the main house, separate your area with a partition or large plants. Remember from above how important green plants are to the flow of money and balance.

In either type of office, it is vitally important to Feng Shui and financial freedom to keep things clean and clutter free. Clutter represents a disorganized mind and physically blocks the flow of good energy. All supplies should be kept neatly stacked and labeled. If possible leave a few inches between the walls and your office furniture to further enable the positive chi to move through the space.

Sometimes it takes more than hard work to achieve financial freedom. Feng Shui is an amazing aid in creating the type of life you have always wanted for yourself and your family. With financial freedom comes a more peaceful existence, a balanced life, and the opportunity to more fully appreciate your loved ones. The steps are simple and make a huge difference in your ability to succeed.

by Candace Czarny

Candace Czarny,ASID,CFM,LEED AP, "Award Winning" Interior Designer, Feng Shui Expert & author of 20 Minute Feng Shui. www.ArtOfFengShuiinc.com is continually ranked "Top 10" in Google and Yahoo.

Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

How to Save Real Money When Buying Nearly Anything at Auction

There are a few tricks you need to learn to make the auction process profitable and enjoyable. Ready to start? Let's go.

1. Before the auction starts.

a) Ensure you have sufficient cash or credit availability before you leave home. Bring a pen.

b) Arrive early. Buy a catalog. You can wander around and look at the items for sale more easily at a more leisurely pace. Mark the items that interest you.

c) Mentally, work out what you think you will spend on those items, or write this down on the catalog against the item number.

d) Ensure you find out what the extra fees and charges are that add to the total bid price.

e) Go back to the items you think you will bid on and check them out closely. Look for defects, authenticity and overall condition. Set your bid limit and stick to it. There will be other bargains.

f) Keep your personal belongings safe at all times. Don't let your handbag, purse or wallet out of your possession at any time.

2. During the Auction.

a) Listen to the Auctioneer's opening instructions. Take note of payment terms, pick-up and security conditions.

b) Don't be too keen to always bid first. It's best to leave your bidding towards the end when bidding is starting to slow.

c) Get to know how the auctioneer works and what attracts his attention.

d) If you feel you need to start with an opening bid, don't start with a ridiculously low bid. This will irritate the auctioneer and slow down the auction process. Start with a sensible, but low bid, if you want to bid first.

e) If there are many lots and the auction is continuing for most of the day, you may find towards the end of the day people get a bit tired, bored or have left and there are bargains to be had.

f) If the winning bidder has responsibility for their items make sure you know where your items are or collect them and place them together so you can keep them secure as the auction progresses.

g) Don't get carried away with the process. Keep your wits about you. Don't get caught up in a bidding war - unless it is below your set limit. Let others bid it out. Come in towards the last with your bids. h) Learn how quickly the Auctioneer shuts down the bidding process and moves to the next item. There isn't much time usually.

3. After the Auction.

a) Guard your property, know what is yours. Put it all together in one place, if possible, so you can keep it safe, if this was not done during the auction.

b) Check your records closely against the Auction office records before you hand over that hard-earned cash or credit card.

c) If you lost out to someone for an item you really wanted, why not go up to them after the auction and see if they want to sell? Sometimes this will be successful.

These are just some tips and hints on how you can spend an enjoyable time at an auction, coming away with some bargains, hopefully and saving some real money.

By Bruce Hokin

Bruce Hokin has designed a simple budget tool called "5 Steps to Freedom Personal Budget." It based on his extensive background as a qualified, experienced accountant, manager, consultant and financial adviser. You can download this powerful budget assistant today and be on your way to financial freedom within the hour. It is available at his website www.freedom-personal-budgets.com. Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

Confide For Less Anger In Your Marriage

Jose and Juanita have been married for 17 years, and basically love each other, yet have been fighting over the same issue almost every night of those years: She likes it cold at night and he likes it warm in their house and bedroom. She had just opened their bedroom windows for the night. When she left to visit the bathroom, she heard Jose follow her and close all the windows.

Let’s eavesdrop to see what we can learn about this fight and what to do about it.

—(curtain up)—
Juanita: (to Jose) "I can’t sleep unless the windows are wide open. You know that, but insist on closing them every night, just so I’ll be miserable. You are selfish and inconsiderate."

Jose: (to Juanita):"This is my house too. Why should I have to freeze? You always get your way. It is so cold in here you could hang meat! Are you trying to get me sick? No NORMAL person would want it this cold!"(curtain down)

IS THIS A SOLVABLE PROBLEM?
Depends on the specific marriage. For some couples, the solution would be a simple compromise of some sort; for instance, buy a room thermometer and agree to always keep the room at an agreed upon temperature both could live with.

In many marriages, however, a problem like this is not easily solved—it becomes “perpetual”—and trying to “solve” it only creates anger and tension. For Jose and Juanita, this unfortunately was the case.

Why is a simple problem like this not solvable for our couple and in many other marriages? Could be many reasons, but the usual culprits are:

(1) The couple is engaged in a “power” or “control” struggle. This means the fight isn’t about the issue anymore—it is about who will win or lose.

(2) The temperature issue goes deeper and is emotionally tied into other personal or marital issues. If this is the case, the more pressure put on the person to “change,” the more the person resists.

For instance, turns out that Juanita literally panics if in a room without air flow due to issues in her childhood. Depriving her of fresh air flow literally makes her want to fight for her life.

CONFIDING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
Let’s now listen in on what Jose and Juanita could have said that may have made a HUGE difference in their communication. This is because now they are speaking from their hearts —combining empathy (seeing things from the viewpoint of the other) with assertive communication (honestly speaking your feelings and thoughts in a forthright manner)

Juanita (should have said something like):"I feel that I don’t have to put up with this, although I also feel bad that you have to suffer. I tell myself that if you really loved me, you would want me to be comfortable at night.I also ask myself why should I always give in? I work hard all day too and deserve some consideration. All I’m asking for is a decent night’s sleep, but then, I wonder if I am being too selfish."

Jose (should have said something like):"I do really love you and I want you to be comfortable too, but it gets so cold in here at night for me that I can’t sleep.

We both want a good night’s sleep and want to be able to continue sleeping together in the same room. Let’s find a way to discuss it so it doesn’t make us so angry at each other."

Granted, it is not easy to confide when in the heat of marital battle. Consequently, it is often better to first take a time out, calm down and then communicate what is in your heart. The following communication tips will help:

FOUR COMMUNICATION TIPS
Tip 1- Don’t only focus on the issue. Also discuss your feelings, thoughts, and inner conflicts surrounding the issue. Confide what is going on in both your heart and your mind.

Tip 2- Look at how you communicate with each other ABOUT the issue. Focus on the process of communication.

Tip 3- Give up needing to be right all the time. Wise and successful married people have discovered that often it is preferable to be happy than to be right!

Tip 4- Convey to your partner that you love them enough to want to join them so together you can find a way to deal with the issue or problem.

by Dr Tony Fiore

Dr Tony Fiore is a licensed psychologist and anger management trainer. His company, The Anger Coach provides classes, products and resources for adults, couples,the workplace, and professionals. He can be reached at 714-771-0378.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com/

Are You Living Your Happily Ever After?

A marriage is a completely unique relationship that we humans experience. You virtually become one with another person and share just about everything together. It is a partnership where two people ideally love and respect one another and grow to appreciate and work through differences "till death do you part".

What it is not however, is a conflict-free relationship. It is almost certain that your spouse will have annoying habits or do things that irritate you. You will not find a mate that is perfect. None of us are. We must realize this and not expect perfection from our spouse. That causes unrealistic expectations that ultimately lead to disappointment. Just as you don't want your spouse to have unrealistic expectations of you, you do not want to have unrealistic expectations of him.

We also must accept that we cannot change or fix our spouses. We can only change our expectations and ourselves. We can look for ways to be a better spouse. And it just may be appreciated and reciprocated. But even if its not, it will make you a better person and improve your relationship when you release your spouse from trying to fix him or change him. Love him and focus not on his imperfections. You married his imperfections and you married his good qualities too. Remember that.

Many people go into marriage thinking, "This person or this marriage is going to make me happy." But that is not true, we must find that joy and contentment as individuals and allow our marriage to be the "icing" – an added bonus. We must release our spouse from the responsibility of making us happy. It is not their job. Our spouses are not equipped to meet all of our needs. No man or woman is. Sure they can and should meet some of our relationship needs, but marriage is not intended to complete us -- only to compliment us. For me, it is my faith in Christ that completes me and makes me whole.

It is common to sometimes forget to give of ourselves in a relationship and forget to be others-centered. In all likelihood, we would see dramatic improvements in marriage (and all relationships) if we had the mindset of "What can I do for my spouse? How can I nurture our relationship?" In a healthy relationship, having this mindset is contagious as well. When your spouse sees you working on meeting his needs and giving of yourself, most likely he will want to reciprocate out of appreciation and love.

What is the purpose of marriage then? The purpose of marriage is to love one another, to cherish one another, to encourage one another, to be there for one another in sickness and in health, in the good times and the bad. Sound familiar? Maybe reciting those marriage vows privately or publicly isn't a bad idea. They have meaning and they have power when they are internalized, believed and lived out.

And don't forget marriage enables us to have and create the family we dreamed of as little girls. The white picket fence life may be a bit of a fairy tale, but happily-ever after does not have to be.

By: Lesley Spencer
Copyright HBWM.com, Inc. 2006
About the Author:Lesley Spencer is the founder and president of the national association of Home-Based Working Moms (http://www.HBWM.com), the http://HBWM.com, Inc. Network of Websites and author of the Work-at-Home Workbook. She has a Master's Degree in Public Relations and has been featured in numerous media outlets including CBS News, Forbes, Business Week, Parents, Wall Street Journal and USA Today. She has been working from home for over 10 years and has two children whom she absolutely adores!Read more articles by: Lesley Spencer Article Source: www.iSnare.com

Vaginal Yeast Infections

One of the most annoying conditions that almost every woman has had at one time or another is a “vaginal yeast infection.” A vaginal yeast infection is also called “Candida.” You probably have had at least one yeast infection in your lifetime. Sometimes this annoying infection caused by the Candida albicans fungus, will appear two or more times in a woman’s life, however, this is a small percentage of women. Usually with the proper medical treatment these will improve with repeated treatment.

If you are a woman with unexplained, repeat episodes of vaginal yeast infections and your doctor has not already recommended you testing for diabetes or HIV, you might ask him for these tests. Diabetes and HIV are two conditions that suppress the immune system and increase the risk of repeated infections.

Who is more susceptible to getting a yeast infection?

• Women under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness or when taking antibiotics.• Women with immune-suppressing diseases like diabetes and HIV infection.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

• Vaginal inching and/or soreness
• Thick, white, cheese-like discharge
• Burning feeling around the vaginal opening, especially if urine touches the area
• Pain and/or discomfort during sexual intercourse

When should you consult a doctor?

• Whenever you have vaginal discomfort or abnormal vaginal discharge. This is especially important if you are pregnant.

Most vaginal yeast infections are cured within two weeks or less with the proper medical treatment, and sometimes even with a few days.

What happens at your doctor’s office when you express vaginal symptoms?

• He or she will probably do a pelvic exam. This is necessary to check for inflammation and a white discharge in the vaginal area, or around the vaginal opening.
• Your doctor may also take a sample of the vaginal discharge for an examination under a microscope in the office or to send to the lab. This is a test for yeast organism such as Candida fungi, which is the cause of a vaginal yeast infection.

What is the treatment for vaginal yeast infections?

• Antifungal Medicines that are inserted directly into the vagina. These include: Tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories.
• A single dose of oral fluconazole (Diflucan Oral) may also be used, but not recommended during pregnancy.

Most vaginal yeast infections are not transmitted sexually, therefore, male sex partners do not need to be treated. If a male sex partner shows symptoms of redness, irritation and/or itching at the tip of the penis, he may need to be treated with an antifungal cream or ointment.

If this is your first vaginal yeast infection you definitely need to visit a doctor. The importance of seeing a doctor for first time symptoms of a vaginal infection is to be certain that the vaginal discharge and discomfort is caused by yeast and not a sexually transmitted infection such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia or trichomoniasis. Over-the-counter treatments for vaginal yeast infections should only be used for treating repeat infections.

Tips to prevent vaginal yeast infections:

• Keep the external genital area clean and dry.
• Avoid irritating soaps and bubble baths, vaginal sprays and douches.
• Change tampons and sanitary napkins frequently.
• Wear loose cotton underwear (other types of underwear and tight underwear may trap moisture).
• Do not sit in a wet bathing suit for prolonged periods. Change quickly into dry clothing.
• Take antibiotics only when prescribed by your doctor. Never take antibiotics longer than your doctor recommends.
• If you are diabetic, keep close control over your blood sugar levels.

Author: Connie Limon. Please visit our Nutrition and Health Article Collection for re-print at http://nutritionandhealthhub.com
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

Lower Your Blood Pressure the Nutritional Way

Hypertension has been called “the silent killer” because blood pressure can creep up quietly over time before striking suddenly via a heart attack or stroke. Often, people in their 40’s and 50’s will find out during their annual physical examination that their pressure is climbing, and they may need to go on medication to control it. But before it reaches the point of requiring medical intervention, you can implement some lifestyle changes that may lower your blood pressure before prescription meds are needed. You may want to check with your doctor first, but healthy adjustments like those described below can sometimes make a difference.

1. Get more calcium. Research shows that calcium products can play a role in reducing blood pressure. Look for low-fat varieties of certain dairy products, and experiment to find the foods or beverages you most enjoy. Try to get three servings of calcium-based foods each day. This could take the form of eight-ounce glasses of milk, a combination of yogurt and milk products, or even some foods that contain calcium, like broccoli.

2. Reduce your salt intake. Salt continues under investigation as a probable instigator of hypertension. Keep the saltshaker in the cupboard so you will be less tempted to use it. Don’t salt foods automatically while cooking them, and taste prepared food before adding salt as a seasoning. Beware of hidden salt in processed foods like lunchmeats or as a preservative in frozen foods, especially those that are precooked before freezing. Your body needs some salt, however; so don’t give it up altogether without your doctor’s knowledge.

3. Stay away from fatty foods. Fat clogs the arteries, thus contributing to a rise in blood pressure over time. Cut back on fried foods, fatty cuts of red meat, and foods cooked in oil or butter. Substitute other types of seasonings, like lemon juice or herbs, to replace the taste of fatty flavorings in salads or deep-fried items.

4. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Many disease associations, like the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association, recommend a diet that includes several daily helpings of fruit and vegetables. These can be eaten fresh, frozen, canned, or cooked. Plant foods often contain fiber, which has been shown to reduce blood clotting and improve circulation, thereby contributing to lower blood pressure.

5. Cut back on sweets. Commercially prepared cookies, cakes, and other goodies often contain unhealthy levels of fat, salt, and calories. Eating these too often can interfere with the intake of healthier foods that can help to control blood pressure. When you want to snack, eat low-fat veggie dips, fresh fruit, or baked chips instead of the fried variety.

Changing your diet may not be enough to lower or manage your blood pressure. But it might delay an increase in your numbers, or when combined with other therapies like exercise, stress reduction, and medication, helps to keep your numbers where they belong. Ask your doctor about the role that nutrition might be able to play in controlling your blood pressure.

By Charles Kassotis
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com
For more information on how to lower your blood pressure the nutritional way, Visit The Blood Pressure Directory