Used Baby Items Are they Safe?

Housing Slow Down Means Buying Opportunities

It is fairly clear that the recent blazing hot real estate market has cooled off. If your local market is following this trend, buying opportunities may start to pop up.

Real estate is a funny game. What is good for one party is often bad for the other. In the case of the recent seller?s market, buyers were paying premiums for homes due to massive demand. Now that the market is cooling off, sellers are seeing prices flatten out or drop. While this is bad for sellers, it creates buying opportunities for the savvy buyer.

The recent blazing hot real estate market created a massive amount of wealth for many people. Whether you had owned a home for years or simple purchased three years or so ago, you may very well have doubled the value of your home. In such a case, you are sitting pretty regardless of what the market is doing now. What about people who purchased in the last year or so? Things may not be so rosy.

In the rush to get into the fast appreciating real estate market, many buyers in the last year paid top dollar for homes. To finance the homes, many of these buyers squeezed into unique loans that they can barely make the monthly payments on. As the market cools, many of these same people are finding their equity play has gone bad given the lack or even reduction of appreciation. To top matters off, they are suddenly seeing the interest rates on adjustable loans go up and up as the Federal Reserve raises interest rates to fight inflation. This double whammy is a disaster for such buyers and will further depress the market as more people look to sell out from under their debt.

As a buyer, the above situation presents you with a unique opportunity. While every local real estate market is different, more than a few will be hemorrhaging homes very soon. A classic example is the San Diego market, which has seen astronomical appreciation rates and new home growth. Nice tract homes have been selling for upwards of $800,000 in some parts of the city. As the market cools, people that financially squeezed into such homes are going to be looking to sell, sell, sell! Many will be selling at deflated prices or being foreclosed on. Indeed, the foreclosure market in many areas is going to be robust in the next few years.

While the slow down of the real estate market is not good for many homeowners, buyers should be in good shape. As the market swings to buyers, buying opportunities should be readily available.

Raynor James is with the site - FSBO America - FSBO homes for sale by owner.

Mexico

Mexico is popular with travelers from all over the world. The visitors of Mexico go there for many reasons: sunshine, blue seas swarming with fish and coral, crystal-white beaches, mountains and volcanoes, jungles full of striking wildlife, collectible folk art and the wonderful remains of ancient cultures.

Mexico is known for its tourist destinations. Its fantastic location and year-round mild climate, gorgeous white beaches are ideal for water sports. The site of the Caribbean Ocean makes this place a desired vacationing spot for all.

History of Mexico

Mexico has reminders of its past in just about every city you visit, due to Mexico's vast history. Sometime during the last ice age nomadic tribes of hunter-gatherers from Asia first crossed the Bering Strait and entered the Western Hemisphere. The various civilizations of Mesoamerica are distinguished from others elsewhere in the New World by a variety of common cultural developments including hieroglyphic writing, commerce and trade, an extensive knowledge of astronomy, a highly accurate calendar system, and fascinating religious beliefs featuring a complex pantheon, a ritualistic ball game, and human and animal sacrifices.

Cities of Mexico

Cancun has a first rate tourist road and rail network. The most famous hotel chains in the world have combined luxury and comfort with hospitality. Cancun has fascinating Mayan remains, as well as a museum displaying pieces from this culture. It's excellent overland and air links will whisk you to some of the most impressive places in the Mayan World in both Quintana Roo and neighboring state of Yucatan.

Cabo San Lucas at the southernmost tip of Baja, was once a base for pirate ships waiting to pounce on Spanish treasure ships. It has quickly become the main point of Los Cabos: million-dollar condos have sprung up, palm trees have been transplanted, golf courses have been laid, water has been piped in from San Jos and everywhere is kept immaculate.

The island of Cozumel Mexico has shops with a nice selection of goods including fine jewelry stores. There are so many great reasons to visit Cozumel that once you visit once, you might just get hooked. Compared to other tropical vacation spots, Cozumel is very inexpensive. The unusually short 2-hour flight from Houston, Miami, or Dallas/Fort Worth means you can be lying on a lounge chair sipping a beverage by noon!

Puerto Vallarta is smaller, quieter and younger than Acapulco. In its own way, it is actually every bit as commercial - perhaps more so, since here tourism is virtually the only source of income - but appearances count for much, and Puerto Vallarta, while doing all it can to catch up with Acapulco, appears far less developed and retains a more Mexican feel.

Christmas in Mexico

Christmas for Mexicans, in traditional homes and rural areas, is a religious holiday. It is a celebration of the Nativity. The first thing to know about celebrating Christmas in Mexico is that most everybody takes off the last two weeks in December to spend more time with the family, visit with old friends, even make new friends.

About The Author

David Chandler

For more information, go to: http://www.TexasInfoCenter.comNewport RI - In Class of Its Own With These Four Experiences Cliff Calderwood

Whether youre out to experience the vibrant harbor area, relive the Gilded Age in a Newport Mansion, soak up the stunning views on Ocean Drive, or trek the famous Cliff Walk, then Newport RI is in a class of its own and your gateway to all this and much more.

Newport RI is located at the eastern mouth of Narragansett Bay. Either Newport Bridge from the west on route 138, or Mt. Hope Bridge from the North East on route 114 can reach it.

Founded in 1639 Newport quickly became an important seaport with trading routes to the West Indies. Its years as a major seaport ended with the British blockade in 1776.

In the 19th century Newport once again attracted attention, but this time as a summer playground for the rich and wealthy of America, who also bought their yachts to race at Newport.

THE NEWPORT HARBOR EXPERIENCE

The center of the harbor area is Bannisters and Bowens Wharfs. Here you can yacht watch while sipping your favorite beverage or savoring a few steamed mussels my personal favorite.

The alleys in the wharf area are full of specialty shops, restaurants, and open-air bars. In the summer this is a good area to visit mid-morning or late afternoon when its not so busy.

To Really experience the harbor take The Spirit of Newport harbor cruise that leaves from Bowens Wharf. This is a one hour narrated tour and passes by many striking attractions.

THE NEWPORT MANSION EXPERIENCE

For many their reason to visit Newport RI is the Newport Mansions.

The mansions were affectionately called summer cottages by the original owners because they were only used 612 weeks of the year during the summer season. These are 70 and 80 room houses, and showpieces right down to the last beam of timber or marble!

There are about 13 mansions in all to visit in Newport RI, with most located on or in the vicinity of Bellevue Avenue. The Preservation Society of Newport County operates ten of these and offers combo priced tickets. I suggest you try and visit no more than three in one day.

The most popular Mansions are The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms. But to experience something different visit The Astors Beechwood, where youll literally be treated like a guest by role-playing hosts.

THE TEN MILE OCEAN DRIVE EXPERIENCE

Ocean Drive is a 10-mile route that starts on Bellevue Avenue and follows Ocean Avenue around a rocky peninsular with fishing coves, swimming beaches, and public parks.

The Ocean Avenue part of the drive is probably the most scenic with magnificent houses on rocky necks amidst the backdrop of a windy Atlantic Ocean. Youll see plenty people fishing and others clambering over the rocks searching for creatures in the tidal pools. Why not stop yourself and join them?

Brenton State Park is a halfway point on Newport RI Ocean Drive, and is one of my familys special stopping spots to have a picnic and fly a kite. The park allows pets, and has tables and grills bring your own charcoal though.

As you head out of the park youre heading back to Newport Harbor, and while the scenery heading back isnt quite as spectacular youll pass the Castle Hill Lighthouse, Hammersmith Farm, and Fort Adams State Park.

THE CLIFF WALK EXPERIENCE

The Cliff Walk will provide you spectacular views of the ocean, but parts of it are more of an adventure experience than an easy ramble, and its not recommended for small children.

Its 31/2 miles in length over paths that in some areas have been eroded and battered by the natural weather patterns of the area. Wear sneakers if you can, and show caution.

The North End Cliff Walk starts where Memorial Blvd meets Eastons Beach.

The first part of the walk is easy on good pavement and leads you to The Forty Steps. After the steps youll have great views of Ochre Point, Ochre Court, Cave Cliff, and Vineland.

Youre now heading towards Baileys Beach at the South End of the walk. This is a rough section and at times the path gets small and even seems to stop. However, by scrambling over the rocks youll be home free soon and be able to take in more stunning views of the ocean area.

So are you ready to experience Newport RI? Put on your sneakers, pack a picnic, and get ready for many Kodak moments on this trip.

For more details on these experiences and many others visit the towns official web site at www.gonewport.com.

About The Author

Cliff Calderwood is the owner and contributing writer of www.new-england-vacations-guide.com. You can read more about Newport RI and get a free travel report at his New England Vacation site.6 Keys to Help You Learn Spanish Online Patrick Jackson

Six Keys to Help You Learn Spanish Online

This article consists of six tips to help you learn Spanish online. If you follow these six tips, you can be sure that you will learn to speak Spanish online much easier.

Key Numero Uno to Learn Spanish Online:

Stay motivated

I think everyone that studies a foreign language will experience a time when they are becoming less and less motivated. You may feel that you are losing your desire to learn Spanish online around the same time that you have reached a plateau.

If you feel that you are losing your desire to learn to speak Spanish online, try planning a trip to a Spanish speaking country. Since you will want to get the most out of your trip, this should motivate you to study.

Here's another tip to help you stay motivated and to make you want to learn to speak Spanish online. Find a native speaker that you are romantically interested in. Since you will probably want to impress him or her with your Spanish, this should motivate you to keep studying and make you want to learn Spanish online. You will also notice that you are making progress quicker by practicing your Spanish with a native speaker and that should also motivate you to keep studying and practicing Spanish.

Of course, this tip only applies to single people or other people without a significant other.

Key Numero Dos to Learn to speak Spanish Online: Don't Be Afraid of Making Mistakes

Make lots of mistakes. And then after you have made lots of mistakes go make some more mistakes. And then go make some more mistakes.

Many people are afraid of making mistakes when learning Spanish online. If you really want to learn to speak Spanish online, then you have to accept the fact that making mistakes is part of the learning process. The more mistakes you make, the quicker you learn to speak Spanish online.

If you are not making mistakes, that's probably an indication that you are not making the effort to learn Spanish online.

Some people will try to learn to speak Spanish online by ONLY listening. Their reasoning is that once they learn enough Spanish that's when they will begin trying to speak Spanish online. But I can I assure you that it doesn't work that way. It works in reverse.

That is, once you start trying to speak Spanish and making mistakes that's when you will begin to learn to speak Spanish online. Not the other way around.

So go ahead and make mistakes. The mistakes aren't there to embarrass you. The mistakes are there to help you master Spanish.

Key Numero Tres to Learn Spanish Online:

Focus on how to speak Spanish Don't focus on why Spanish is Spoken the way it is

Many people have sent me emails with questions such as why is it me gusta (I like) instead of me gusto or why is it me toma instead of me tomo

Of course, I could easily answer these questions. (And I do) But the objective is not to try equate everything in Spanish with English or your native language.

Accept the fact that Spanish grammar is different from English grammar. And focus on the objective of any language -- which is to communicate effectively.

And in order to communicate effectively, you only need to understand and be understood. It is not necessary that you understand each and every grammatical facet.

Trying to do so will only hinder your learning and make it difficult to learn Spanish online. Imagine trying to teach a 4 yr old the definition of a direct pronoun vs. an indirect pronoun. We would never attempt such a thing. But the 4yr old child is still fluent in his or her native language.

So make your goal to understand and be understood. Focus on how to speak Spanish Don't focus on why Spanish is Spoken the way it is.

Key Numero Cuatro to Learn to Speak Spanish Online:

Master the Fundamentals

Many people spend their time learning a bunch of Spanish vocabulary that they could go a life time and never use. That's because the words are hardly used in normal everyday conversation. If you want to learn to speak Spanish online without Wasting anytime, I advise you to master the fundamentals. When I say the fundamentals I am referring to the basic vocabulary and basic grammar.

I know adults that have studied Spanish for a few years and they know thousands of words in Spanish. Although they may be proficient in Spanish, I would not consider them fluent. On the other hand, a three or four year old native Spanish-speaking child can speak Spanish fluently. It is not because the child knows thousand of words in Spanish. The child may only know about a thousand words or less in Spanish. But the child has mastered the fundamentals.

Mastery of the fundamentals is what separates the proficient from the fluent.

If you really want to learn to speak Spanish online make it a priority to master the fundamentals.

Key Numero Cinco to Learn Spanish Online:

Take Advantage of downtime Finding time to study can be a challenge. Many people just don't have the time to sit down and study. But who said that you have to be sitting down? If you are waiting in line at the bank or waiting at the doctor's office, turn on your mp3 player or ipod and listen to an audio Spanish lesson.

If you drive to work everyday, that's an excellent opportunity to practice your favorite audio Spanish course. If you like to jog or exercise on a stairmaster or treadmill, bring your mp3 player or ipod with you and listen to your favorite audio Spanish course

Instead of watching the 10' clock News. Watch Las Noticias Instead of watching a movie on HBO, watch a movie on HBO Latino.

So to those that say I just don't have the time to learn Spanish online. My response is that you can make excuses or you can learn to speak Spanish online. But you can't do both. The choice is yours. Key Numero Seis to Learn to speak Spanish Online:

Become an Imitator

Some Spanish courses do not put much emphasis on pronunciation. I think that is a big mistake.

If you really want to be understood, you must try to mimic native speakers.

Have you every experienced someone that asked you for directions or some other question and you were unable to assist the person because you didn't speak her language. And then you suddenly realized that the person was actually speaking English but her accent was so thick that you thought the person was speaking another language.

The same thing happens to Spanish ears. If you do not develop good pronunciation, you will not be understand.

If you say the word dad in Spanish and you do not stress the appropriate syllable, a native Spanish speaker may think that you are talking about french fries. To English ears the difference may be very subtle. But to the Latin American its the difference between dad and potatoes.

So focus on mimicking native Spanish speakers.

I hope that you enjoyed these 6 Tips to Help You Learn Spanish Online and that they truly help you in your journey to learn to speak Spanish online.

Patrick Jackson

About The Author

Patrick Jackson is a self-taught speaker of Spanish and the founder of the Learning Spanish Like Crazy method. You may publish this article online or offline so long as the article is not altered in any manner, including, but not limited to, this section which contains the URL of the author's web site. Learning Spanish Like Crazy makes it quick and easy to learn Spanish. Download free audio Spanish lessons and get your 6 day Spanish mini-course visit: http://www.learningspanishlikecrazy.com/

Giving Your Tempe Home a Shot in the Arm

Tempe, Arizona is such a great community to live in that homes for sale practically sell themselves. Who wouldn't want to live in such a dynamic community, a place with easy access to Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa and Scottsdale? Tempe offers great schools, beautiful planned communities, and lots of variety, conveniences and amenities.

If you own a home in Tempe, you've probably seen your home equity increase as your home appreciates in value. You may be tempted to sell your home and use some of the equity as down payment for a larger home in Tempe.

Whether you plan to sell your home or not, chances are you'd like to make improvements to the property to increase its value. What are some changes you can make to your property to keep that home equity growing? The answer may surprise you. The trend nowadays focuses not on the inside of your house, but the outside, the landscaping.

Landscaping has become the hottest trend in property improvement. But the focus isn't on merely adding some flowers or shrubs to your property. New buyers are looking for landscaping that creates a livable area outside the home, a yard that expands the space of the home to the great outdoors.

The Arizona sun provides so many days of beautiful weather, it's a shame to waste time indoors. That's part of the reason home owners are looking for what amounts to an outdoor living room.

Having a simple patio isn't sufficient. If you really want to improve your Tempe home, consider adding a patio or terrace that reflects the elegance of the rest of your home. Instead of a mere concrete slab patio, add paving stones or tiles.

Another important feature to consider is a covered area. As much as you may love the sun, having a sheltered or shaded area to take a break is an important part of creating the feel of an outdoor living room.

The patio or terrace becomes an important part of the home for entertainment and enjoyment. What can you do to make your patio more functional, with a feeling of permanence? How about adding a built in grill, or consider making a mini-kitchen outdoors. It may take a little money to add the features, but its well worth it in terms of the value it adds to your home.

What living room is complete without a fireplace? Well, fireplaces are important parts of indoor living rooms, but not such a practical part of an outdoor living space. If you are considering adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, rethink your plans. These features add little value to the home because they aren't something that is commonly used by most residents.

Water features, like ponds or waterfalls, offer little desirability. The feature may be pretty, but in the end it's merely time consuming to maintain. A far better use of money is in a swimming pool. Traditionally, swimming pools aren't considered a great equity generator in other parts of the country, but in Arizona, a pool can be a deal maker for a home.

More and more home owners are investing serious money in the landscaping around their home. They find the investment pays off not only in future sale of the property, but also increases their enjoyment of the home.

Consider making some improvements to the outside of your Tempe home, and you'll find that your house has a whole new lease on life.

Reg Gustin is a senior loan officer with Sun American Mortgage and specializes in helping families and their financial lending needs.

Get a FREE mortgage rate quote from a reputable Arizona mortgage company at http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-mortgages.html

Search the Arizona MLS at http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-mls.html

Click here: http://www.arizona-homes-store.com/arizona-real-estate-appreciation-report.htmland get a FREE copy of The Greater Phoenix Area Housing Appreciation Report, as compiled by Arizona State University with your free subscription to his monthly ezine, MARKET NEWS.

Having Fun with Backgammon Online

Welcome to Backgammon! A game that survives 5000 years, largely unchanged, and is still played by millions of people, must have some unique and fascinating features. At first sight, backgammon appears to be deceptively simple game of chance and indeed a little kid can be taught to play it as a simple game of luck in 30 minutes. However, the problems of strategy, position and timing are always a matter of dispute, even amongst the top players of the world.

The game of backgammon is quite similar to one of the world's most popular game - Poker. The backgammon player must, like the poker player, makes the agonizing choice of accepting or refusing a doubling of the stakes, but unlike poker there are no hidden hands, and therefore less bluff- as you can see your opponent's men and every moves he makes. Of course, another similar feature is that both poker and backgammon can be played online.

Currently, there are some many online gaming websites that allow one to play backgammon for free or a small fee. Backgammon online has become so common that the traditional way of playing the game seems to be losing its popularity. This is because some of these backgammon online games are so realistic that the players feel as though they are playing the real thing. The powerful technology used in the gaming software has given the traditional game a revival and advanced it to a higher level. For instance, there is a total revolution in the appearance of the backgammon board and the added features to the game simply make it more addictive.

One of the new features of playing backgammon online is that you enjoy the flexibility of changing the backgammon board any time you like. You can easily change the color of the board by clicking on a few buttons and you can even customize it to the look that you preferred. This gives a huge advantage over the conventional game where the players have to stick to the same old board every game they played. This is likely to remain the same unless they decide to purchase a new board.

Another benefit of playing backgammon online is that there will never be a shortage of players. By joining one of the hundreds of backgammon clubs on the internet, you will be able to compete against any opponent that wish to take you on. If you are game enough, you can even choose to play against a computerized player who is always available to take you on. This will save you the hassle of finding a human player, which may takes a long time. It will also avoid the embarrassing issues of losing to your friends or the occurrence of any hard feelings.

Some of the more advanced backgammon software even allows the players to chat online while they are playing the game. This has definitely revolutionized the way that the game is being played. You can enjoy chatting to your friends and playing the game, while sitting in the comfort of your home. What better way to keep in touch with your friends without the need to get out of your house!

For more information on how to play backgammon, playing backgammon online, backgammon boards or backgammon directions, please visit the following website: http://backgammon.mygeneralknowledge.com/Articles/PlayingBackgammonOnline.php

About the Author

Are You Really a Seller

Many people who have their homes for sale are not really sellers.. that is people who are motivated to sell. Many of todays sellers only want to sell if they get their price which may or may not be very realistic. Sellers are having a hard time accepting that the market has changed and the party is over. As these people either leave the market or get serious about selling prices appear to be falling more then they actually are. Homes priced on expectations not market value will not sell in today's market. If a home's value is $1,000,000 and it is listed at $1,500,000 then reduced to $1,100,000 it may appear as though the price has been drastically reduced when in reality it has not even reached the real market value.

If you really want to sell your home here are a few tips :

*Make Sure it Shows Well.. Clear out clutter, paint, put in new carpet or flooring. A few years ago you could get away with getting top dollar for a fixer. Today's buyer wants it in good shape or deeply discounted.

*Curb Appeal.. Re-plant flower beds, add pots of flowers, re-sod if necessary and paint the exterior. Most buyers make a large part of their home buying decision basedon the exterior of the property.

* Price It Right! That doesn't mean giving away the property but it does mean not overpricing. Zillow doesn't know your market so don't base your price on an online site that is getting money from someone other then you. Look carefully at the COMPS from your agent. A local agent knows the market and true market value.

* Marketing: Make sure your home is marketed in places other then the local papers. 75% of buyers start their search on the internet. You need to be there. If your agent is not marketing your property on the net you are losing access to a lot of potential buyers.

*Patience: Buyers are taking their time to purchase. Be ready to have your home on the market for 2-6 months. Entry level and premium priced A location homes sell quicker then those in the mid-level range.

Remember people are always buying and selling real estate. They get married or divorced, have babies or become empty nesters, retire or find new jobs. The market is always moving... it just moves to a different beat from time to time.

Kaye Thomas is a UCLA graduate and has been selling real estate in Manhattan Beach Ca since 1979. Kaye works with buyers and sellers and specializes in residential and small residential income property in the South Bay Beach Cities of Los Angeles county. For more information on buying or selling visit Kaye at www.KayeThomas4homes.com or www.Move2ManhattanBeach.com or read her BLOG at www.BeachCityRealEstateInfo.blogspot.com You can e-mail Kaye with questions at: kaye@kayethomas4homes.com

House Approves Increase in FHA Limits

The House of Representatives approved a bill to increase the FHA's lending limits and reduce payment restrictions.

The bill, which will help low-income and first-time home buyers, was sponsored by Ohio Representative Bob Ney. It received almost unanimous support by the house with a 415-7 vote.

The factors in determining the maximum amount insurable by the FHA for single-family homes will be changed as an amendment to the National Housing Act, according to the new law.

The bill allows the FHA flexibility in insuring mortgages up to the median home price in areas where home prices are extremely high. It will also provide for a maximum of 40-year mortgage terms.

The bill will eliminate all flat mortgage insurance premiums, instead instuting a tiered premium system according to the property's loan-to-value ration, the borrower's credit history and debt-to-income ration and the FHA's experience with comparable borrowers.

The current minimum downpayment of 3% will be discarded. The limit on federally insured reverse mortgages will also be eliminated

The law will allow loans to be more easily made in high-cost areas. For years, low-income buyers have been pressured to take out high-cost private mortgages due to the substantial increases in house prices in metro areas.

The FHA hopes that the new law will change this trend.

Modernizing FHA will improve competition in the prime home loan mortgage industry and effectively assist the industry in combating abusive and discriminatory lending practices, said Ney.

This bill helps further increase the country's homeownership rate, especially among low and moderate-income and minority families.

Martin Lukac represents http://www.RateEmpire.com and http://www.1AmericanFinancial.com, a finance web-company specializing in real estate and mortgage rates. We specialize in daily updates, mortgage news, rate predictions, mortgage rates and more. Find low home loan mortgage interest rates from hundreds of mortgage companies!

How To Avoid Getting Lost While Backpacking

If you?ve decided to go backpacking, hiking, and camping somewhere fairly close to home but in the ?back country? (out in the wild), there are a few tips and guidelines you should follow in order to avoid getting lost. Getting lost may seem like a mere inconvenience, but you really can put yourself in a life-threatening situation.

First, while some avid backpackers prefer to go alone to just enjoy nature and solitude, it?s best to take somebody with you in case you run into trouble and need help?or if you do happen to get lost, you can work together to avoid panic, and keep warm, fed, safe, and sheltered.

Second, make sure somebody (a close relative or friend) back home knows where you?re going and for how long you?ll be gone. Even just a general guideline of the area in which you?ll be backpacking and your estimated time of return (?We should be back by the end of the weekend,? for example), will make a big difference for your rescuers in being able to locate you faster should you get lost.

Next, take along a detailed map of the area. An updated topographical map of the area in which you?ll be backpacking, and specifically the trails you?ll be hiking and the sites in which you may decide to camp, will make a big difference in ensuring you don?t get lost. However, make sure you can understand and properly read the map before you embark on your backpacking-in-the-wild adventure. If the area and trails are fairly established, you can easily find maps at park services, ranger stations, and likely on the trails themselves. Maps can also be located online, and use Google Earth to locate a particularly ?wild? patch of land.

Just as important as a detailed map of the area is a compass. You must make sure you know how to use one though. It will not be much good to you if you happen to get yourself lost out in the wild. However, make sure you use your compass right from the moment you enter the wild back country, as it will help you to stay on course and help you avoid getting lost in the first place. A GPS can also come in handy?if you can afford it, that is. However, like a compass, a GPS is only effective if you use it as you go, rather than just pulling it out as soon as you happen to think you might be lost. Don?t forget back-up batteries!

Finally, as you?re backpacking, take keen notice of your surroundings?watch for specific landmarks you can use as a guide if you happen to go off trail or get lost, and you need to backtrack.

Mark Hammond is the marketing manager for National Hotels - a UK Hotel Directory and Travel Resource

Online Real Estate Courses

Buying a home is a major decision because it involves choosing a place where you will live for a number of years. This decision also has major implications on your financial status because of the usually high cost of homes and the loan applications that accompany such purchases.

Due to the enormity of the decision of purchasing a piece of property, most buyers solicit the help of real estate agents. Real estate agents are persons licensed by the government of a certain jurisdiction to handle real estate sales. Usually, real estate agents are under the employ of real estate brokers who can be either individuals or companies that have overall responsibility for the actions of real estate agents. There are also instances when real estate agents use the services of real estate appraisers to help them determine the market value of a home that is put up for sale.

Getting a License

Given the delicate and complex nature of real estate transactions, it is important that buyers get the right information so that they are properly guided in their decisions. Real estate agents, brokers, and appraisers need to have an understanding of the market and the technical aspect of real estate. To be able to get a level of competence in real estate, these persons need to take courses on the different aspect of real estate and take a licensing exam so that they can be certified by the state as persons who can handle real estate transactions.

Traditionally, people who wish to become agents, brokers, and appraisers enroll in institutions that offer courses on real estate subjects and take the subsequent exams for licensing afterwards. However, it is now possible for people who to take these courses in the comfort of their own homes because online courses are available on the Internet.

Online Courses

A search on the Internet can lead to you to a large number of online schools that offer real estate courses. Under this set-up, students enroll online, receive their materials through e-mail and they take exams online. These online courses promise that taking these courses is the same as or even better than the traditional way because students do not have to deal with the problems of traveling and face to face communication with instructors. These courses also offer review lessons on how the students can improve their chances in the licensing exams given by the government. Apart from being more convenient, these online courses also offer potential agents more opportunities since real estate courses on the different states are also offered. Given this new development, people who wish to be agents can now also avail of the benefits that the Internet offers.

Real Estate Courses provides detailed information on Online Real Estate Courses, Real Estate Agent Courses, Real Estate Appraisal Courses, Real Estate Broker Courses and more. Real Estate Courses is affiliated with Phoenix Real Estate Schools.

Cancer: Do You Find Any Meaning In Your Cancer Experience?

Is Your Child Protected By That Car Seat?

Is this the season for recalls?

A couple of days back, the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has announced the recall of hundreds of thousands of vehicles from two major auto manufacturers - Daimler Chrysler AG and the Ford Motor Company. However, it seems like another auto product is going to be recalled. If you are eyeing your newly purchased Mitsubishi OEM parts, then there is actually no need to worry. These products are not for recall.

It is really good that the Britax Child Safety, Inc. actually did a recall without the need for the NHTSA to be involved. They voluntary called back to their arms one of their child seat products - one model of their much purchased Boulevard child restraints with model number E9L57. According to the company, they are voluntarily recalling such a product because they have found out that such has been unable to comply with the safety regulations given out with regards to child seats.

If you have bought a Boulevard child restraint with the model number E9L57, you should do go first check if the product was produced from March 1st of this year up until the 1st of August. Products only produced during that period would be recalled. However, if you have other Britax products, then there is no need to worry for the company itself has said that there are no other products to be recalled.

What made Britax recall such products? Well, it is certainly a good thing that the company is doing random product evaluations. And on one of those, they were able to find out that the recalled model may be quite dangerous to the little child in it. They have found out that the top tether hook could actually open or even break during some situations. And if it does, of course, the passenger or the child in it could also fall down and get harmed.

Britax did several tests and they found out that the top tether hook actually opens or breaks during a certain situation. This was when the child restraint was actually installed facing the front. The tether was then attached to a dummy that was used in place of a child. So if the hook breaks during a crash, the restraint could move forward. Such increases the risk of injury and harm to the child.

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Missouri Mortgage What to Expect When Buying a Home in Missouri

Maybe you?re buying your first home in Missouri, or perhaps you?re relocating to Missouri from another state. Either way, it?s important that you educate yourself on Missouri home loans before shopping for a home and mortgage. This article explains what you?ll need to know before buying a home in Missouri:

The price of homes in Missouri varies widely between zip codes. For example, in Saint Peters, Missouri, the median price of a home in the summer of 2005 was $168,000; however, the median price of a home in Chesterfield, Missouri, was $225,000, and in Parkville, Missouri, it was $300,000. Overall, the median price of a home in Missouri is $89,900. Job growth rates in Missouri are about half that of the national average, and average interest rates in Missouri are above the national average.

Missouri is a non-community property state. Additionally, it is one of only 14 states that uses a ?Deed of Trust? as a mortgage. This means that a trustee holds the title of a house for a lender rather than the mortgage company itself.

Missouri?s Housing Assistance Programs offer mortgages with below-market interest rates and down payment assistance to veterans, and people with very low incomes or disabilities.

The Missouri Association of Community Action, Inc., offers a program to Missouri residents called the Missouri Building Assets Project (MBA). Participants in this program are given a savings account and attend money budgeting classes. They put money into a savings account every month with a savings goal in mind. Once they?ve reached their goal and attended a significant amount of budgeting classes, the MBA program leaders match their saved amount for use as a down payment on a home.

Jessica Elliott recommends that you visit Mortgage Lenders Plus.com for more information about Missouri Mortgage Rates and Loans.

Nursing in Crisis: How Hospitals are Dealing with the Shortage

The Current State of Nursing

Healthcare delivery has undergone critical change over the last several years, and the nursing profession has changed along with it. The end result: A reduction in the supply of qualified, experienced nurses. Those who remain are working under conditions of heavier case loads, technological complexity and increased acuity of patients. A condition which once warranted a lengthy in-patient stay is now treated on an out-patient basis, largely because of managed care requirements.

According to Debbie Pickup, Director of Human Resources at Southcoast Healthcare System and a former R.N., The nurse's role of patient care is the same, but the importance has escalated. Since hospital stays are shorter, a patient who undergoes surgery used to stay for one week, but now only stays two to three days. Nurses must assist the patient to bring him or her to a functioning level and put together a plan to support the patient and assure quality care, while discharging sooner. According to Barbara Munro, Dean of Nursing at Boston College, Nurses have said that the problem has been the working conditions - too few nurses, not enough support, an uncertain future, and forced overtime.

The role of patient families has also changed in the last decade. Both patients and their families are more educated and involved in the process, according to David DeJesus, Vice President of Human Resources at Southcoast Healthcare System. Families used to trust the care of the patient to physicians and nurses; now it's common that family members stay 24 hours a day, ask questions about the care, and put more demands on the nurses.

Reasons for the Shortage

The current shortage in qualified, experienced nurses is not expected to improve over the next several years. In fact, the majority of senior level nurses and nurse managers are reaching retirement age. As they exit the profession, fewer nurses will be available or willing to assume a management role. The current climate of understaffing, 24-hour shifts, increased management responsibility, and increased acuity of patients often leaves younger nurses reluctant to fill the gap.

Dean Munro sees the problem continuing. Most nurses are around 45 years old, white, suburban women, 80% of whom are currently working full-time. As they retire, they often leave because they're burnt out; unfortunately, there are simply not enough nurses to replace them.

Only a few years ago, industry analysts were stating that there was an over supply of nurses - not so anymore. Why aren't there enough nurses to replace those who are retiring or leaving the profession? Hiring managers are finding that younger Baby Boomers and Generation Xers are no longer viewing nursing as a viable profession because of the difficult work environment combined with a desire for more control, quality and balance in their lives. In addition, women have more choices of fields to enter. As one 20-year nursing veteran put it, There are simply more options open to bright women interested in healthcare; before there was only nursing - now there is 'medicine'. I recently took my daughter to work one day, but frankly, I'm not encouraging her to become a nurse. The working conditions are horrendous, the responsibility is huge, patients are acute, and the workload index is high.

According to Dean Munro, the national level of enrollment for nursing is down, although applicants to Boston College have risen. Of 20,000 applicants, only the upper echelon (about 2,000) is accepted. Boston College, Yale, and other academic institutions are forming accelerated programs to attract those who wish to change careers. Accelerated programs enroll people who already hold bachelor's degrees in other fields into a one-year intensive nursing program or a two-year master's program. The average age range for program applicants is 25 to 35 years old.

Debbie Pickup from Southcoast Healthcare System witnessed an increase in the average age of incoming nurses. The age of new nurses used to be around 21 or 22; now graduates have varied ages, often in the mid-30's. For many of them, nursing is a second career. They enter into a more acute clinical environment, where patients are sicker and more complex. Although schools have changed the curriculum, entry level grads have only basic skills - there is a great gap in the readiness of the individual.

How Hospitals Attract and Retain Nurses

Hospitals must now compete with one another to attract and retain nurses in a very competitive market. Southcoast's DeJesus notes that some hospitals are using preceptor programs to ease the transition of new graduates into high-paced, technologically complex clinical settings. Since new grads need more clinical experience, many hospitals create a professional development transition program. In addition to a week-long orientation, this program combines classroom time, and practical time with an experienced staff member for six months. This mentor relationship helps with a gradual introduction. Preceptors are trained and compensated. Mentors are often volunteers. It is a supportive transition that has received a very positive response.

Hospitals have had to be flexible in their approach to overcome the shortage. Use of travel nurses, for example, fills gaps whenever needed. Many nurses, particularly older nurses, often work per diem to keep working without the pressure of a full-time commitment. During a shortage in the early 80's, some Boston-area hospitals even recruited nurses from other countries, such as Ireland. Other approaches include sign-on bonuses worth several thousands of dollars, referral bonuses, and flexible hours. Flexibility of hours may allow nurses to work three 16-hour days, for example, with the next four days off. For women with children, a flexible schedule can be very important.

Southcoast's Debbie Pickup adds, Most hospitals are now focusing on retention. It is becoming critical to pay attention to all factors that are important to RNs in the clinical setting: having a voice and the ability to have some control over the practice of nursing. For example, a unit council meeting takes place on a regular basis and identifies issues and concerns to patient care. Years ago the nurse manager addressed this issue. Now TQM requires that more people are included in the problem solving and decision-making. Staff members are more involved in operational issues. Although some individuals still prefer that management fix all the problems, for the most part it works quite well.

Pickup added, The professional relationship between the nurses and physicians plays a factor on retention of nurses. If there is a good relationship, one that is consultative, respectful, and supportive, then job satisfaction is increased. If, on the other hand, the relationship is not positive, there is a higher turnover in the nursing staff.

Dean Munro strongly suggests that hospitals work closely with the nurses to determine their needs and establish their value to the organization. Perhaps the best ICU ever created was when nurses worked with the architects to design the unit. They designed a better unit simply by talking with the nurses.

Her advice to hospital management: Work with the nurses to see what is needed to improve job satisfaction. The number one concern is not always salary - it has to do with improving working conditions, being recognized for what they do, and obtaining the opportunity to learn new things. Nurses need to get a sense that they have done a good job for their patients. Listen to the nurses. Empower them. Make them part of the process. That process will be improved and so will the quality of patient care.

This article is drawn from Phillips DiPisa's Thought Leadership Library. You can find more perspectives on managing today's complex healthcare organizations on our Web site at www.PhillipsDiPisa.com.

Phillips, DiPisa & Associates

62 Derby Street

Hingham, MA 02043

telephone: 781-740-9064

www.PhillipsDiPisa.com

Copyright (c) 2007. Phillips, DiPisa & Associates.
About the Author

As a principal of Phillips DiPisa, Dan Phillips conducts executive leadership searches for the firm's healthcare clients. Before launching Phillips DiPisa, Dan held financial leadership positions at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and Franciscan Children's Hospital, both in Boston. His strong track record of building long-term relationships demonstrates the trust clients place in him.

Sellers Buyers and Earnest Money Deposits

Once an offer is made on a home, the counteroffer process can move very quickly. Before you start whipping numbers back and forth, the issue of earnest money deposits needs to be addressed.

Sellers, Buyers and Earnest Money Deposits

If you are selling a property, nothing gets your adrenaline up like receiving an offer from a potential buyer. All the hard work and inconvenience has paid off. All you have to do is get through the offer and counteroffer process. Of course, you are not going to accept the first offer. Instead, you get on your thinking cap and start strategizing on an effective counteroffer. While you are thinking, it is important to remember the earnest money deposit.

An earnest money deposit separates the men from the boys when it comes to evaluating potential buyers. In essence, this is where you see both how credible and serious the potential buyer is regarding your property. It is both a statement of their liquidity and their knowledge of the process.

An earnest money deposit is also known as a good faith deposit. The amount of the deposit is entirely negotiable, but typically is an amount of ten percent or less of the sales price of the property. The custom and practice in your area regarding the percentage is the key. It will differ from area to area in the country, so make sure you get a bead on what is expected. If the customary deposit amount is five percent and you demand ten percent, it could be a deal killer from the outset and the buyer could move on to another property.

Once you have agreed on a percentage, the buyer should deposit the earnest money deposit with a third party. The party can be the escrow agent, an attorney or even a bank in certain states. If the transaction goes smoothly, the deposit is credited as part of the down payment on the home when the transaction closes. Ah, but what if it does not go smoothly?

The earnest money deposit can be forfeited to the seller in certain situations. Ostensibly, the particular situations are governed by what the parties agree to in writing and state law. In general, the buyer will get their money back if the deal falls apart because of a seller issue such as massive termite problems that were not identified by the seller before the offer was made. In turn, the buyer can lose the deposit amount if they simply refuse to go forward with the transaction. In some real estate contracts, this process is known as liquidated damages automatically awarded to the seller given the fact you wasted time with the buyer and had your property off the market.

All and all, earnest money deposits should be looked at as back up protection, not a potential profit center. If a buyer is unwilling to make a deposit, reject the offer and move on.

Raynor James is with the site - FSBO America - FSBO homes for sale by owner.

Resurgence of the Great Designer Leather Backpack

Designer leather backpacks have returned into today?s fashion society with a vengeance. With many designer companies producing attractive and stylish choices for leather backpacks, many women have come to recognize them as a practical and fashionable alternative to purses and handbags. Many companies also provide designer leather backpacks at affordable prices so you can accessorize them with your wardrobe. Also, there are several different shapes and styles to add to their already attractive qualities.

The Pear Pack leather backpack is a popular choice among many women. Named for its shape, the Pear Pack by Erda Leather has a single adjustable strap which is a trendy concept in today?s leather backpacks. The single strap also allows you to use it as a sling-style bag. As a result, this is a versatile choice when you are looking for a new designer leather backpack. The Teardrop bag is a handbag but its shape and utility resembles that of a typical backpack. These bags have a single flap that covers the main compartment they also have a drawstring to close the opening.

The Territory Backpack by Ellington Leather is what most people think of when they think of the typical backpack. The designer leather backpack industry has taken this idea and improved on it by making this style with leather instead of canvas, as they are typically known. These are traditional backpacks, but the added leather gives them an elegant and stylish appeal. These are also the most durable kind of backpacks and, as such, they are more practical. They often have several compartments for carrying essentials anytime.

Another popular designer leather backpack on the market today is the two-pocket sling backpack. This style generally has two front pockets and a side entry to the main compartment for added convenience. These leather backpacks are spacious and they also have specially-designed compartments for your cell phone and other essentials. The Vero Pack is also a stylish choice with its angled front opening and interior slip pockets. Since it is manufactured by Ellington Leather, you can also be sure that it is made with some of the best leather materials in the industry. Also, the name behind it guarantees its durability and sophisticated qualities that others will undoubtedly notice.

Today?s designer leather backpack combines a sense of functionality with a fashionable style and affordability. Since they have made a comeback in today?s world, manufacturers have experimented with the appearance of the backpack and they have offered consumers a variety of attractive and innovative options. You can get a stylish backpack that you can use to carry more things with you on a daily basis without worrying about carrying around a handbag that is packed full of everyday essentials.

Gale Boone is the founder of eLuxe Bags. For more information about Designer Leather Backpacks, visit eluxebags.com

Many Girls Start Off Wearing The Wrong Size Bra.

o you know what Size you are? Have you had yourself measured by an expert? What will you be using the bra for, support, sports, coverage etc..?

Many girls don't start off with the right bra and carry on making this mistake through most of their lives. As teens are constantly growing, the strains that can be caused by a poorly fitting bra can lead to later problems with posture and back pain. That?s why we suggest that you should be measured by a bra expert at least twice a year or after every evident growth. A first bra is not an all-rounder, it is not suitable for every occasion. Nowadays, Bras are available in many varieties; support, sports, wireless, underwired, backless, strapless and the list goes on. You should really have a variety of bras, each one for a specific activity and role.

A few helpful tips:
A bra should not be too tight, as a teenager?s breasts are still developing.
The most important thing to remember is comfort.
Make sure the bra strap doesn't cut into your shoulders.
Make sure your breasts don't hang out of the bottom, sides or top of the bra.
Support is not only for large cup sizes. Smaller cup sizes need support too, to avoid unsightly future stretch marks.
A simple training bra, or Sports Bra will be perfect for your fist one, and they are available in all sizes from small, medium to large. Training bras are for younger girls who have started to develop breasts but do not fit into the average bra sizes. If your breasts are larger than average and require a full fitting bra, then you should wear one, no matter what your age!

With all this information at hand, you are now armed with the tools to find yourself the best fitting first bra. Many women have had to endure years of discomfort and sometimes, unbearable pain, simply because they weren?t advised on the right type of bra to wear. Now that you know what to look for, it?s time to narrow down your search and have a look at some of the most recommended bras available at the moment.

We have whittled the list of bras down to five, so that your choice is made a little easier.

Playtex Seamless Lace Soft Cup Bra
This bra is perfect to fit small sizes. It has soft, knitted lace cups, lightly-lined to add to your natural shape. Available in sizes 32AA to 36A, and 34AA to 38B.

Playtex Small-Busted Fully Padded Bra
A perfect bra with extra shaping that adds up to a full cup size. It comes with adjustable and elasticized straps to accommodate for natural growth. Available in sizes 32 to 36A and 32 to 38B.

Maidenform Satin French Demi Bra
This bra has angled cups to create a shapely uplift. The light lining helps avoid show-through. Available in sizes 32 to 36A, 32 to 38B and 34 to 38C.

Wacoal Petites Seamless Wireless Contour
A cotton lined soft cup bra that offers comfort and a natural shape. Includes an elastic double hook back, to allow for natural growth.

Amoena Elegant Soft Cup
Perfect for girls as a great first timer. Streamlined with a soft fabric, this bra goes unnoticed under your clothes. You?ll hardly notice you got it on!

About the Author

Vanessa Cane is a succesful freelance writer providing valuable tips and useful advice for online purchasers of items, from just a plain old bra, to a plus size bra. Her numerous articles offer money saving advice and refreshing insight.

Weekend NFL Betting

The fifth week of the college football season doesn't have any must see games, but it does boast a number of crucial conference match-ups that should have the avid CFB pigskin fan pumped. By NFL BetBet and Ecobika NFL Betting

The first of which takes place at 12:30 ET when the Colorado Buffaloes invade Columbia to take on the undefeated Missouri Tigers. The Buffs put forth their best effort of the season in Athens, GA last week and almost upset the #10 ranked Bulldogs in the process. The Tigers have quietly ripped apart each and every one of their opponents on their way to their perfect 4-0 mark. The Buffs made a habit of beating Mizzou in to a bloody pulp during the Barnett era, so it'll be interesting to see how the new regime fares. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say the Tigers won't be gracious hosts. You'll be able to see this Big 12 North battle on all FSN affiliates.

The next crucial conference match-up takes place in the MAC East where the Akron Zips pack their bags back up and hit the road once again to take on the surprising Kent State Golden Flashes. This will be QB Luke Getsy's Zips first conference game of the season, while the Golden Flashes already stand at 2-0 in the division. A win here by Kent would give them some fantastic breathing room the rest of the way, and they would have to be considered the odds on favorite to reach the MAC Championship game if they were to hold serve at home the rest of the way. Expect another solid MAC battle to occur, so tune into FOX Sports Cincinnati to see these two slug it out.

The 3:30 ET time slot is when most of the day's fun begins. Oregon takes on Arizona State, Georgia Tech invades Blacksburg to take on the Hokies, the Gators seek revenge in The Swamp over Alabama, and Texas Tech and Texas A & M will battle it out in what's become a very fierce rivalry over the years. You can catch the SEC battle on CBS, while all the other big games will be broadcasted on ABC.

Lincoln, Nebraska will be in a frenzied state come 7:00 ET as their Huskers take on the Kansas Jayhawks in what's certain to be a bloodbath. The Jayhawks snapped a 36-year losing streak to Nebraska last year in Lawrence, and dished out a woodshed beating in the process. Tune into Fox Sport Net to see if HC Bill Callahan decides to return the favor.


A couple of Big 10 powerhouses take the field at 8:00 ET as the Michigan Wolverines visit the Twin Cities to take on the Minnesota Gophers, and the #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes invade Kinnick Stadium to lock horns with the 13th ranked Iowa Hawkeyes. One game looks to be a blowout, while the other should be very competitive. Can you guess which is which? Be sure to tune into ABC and ESPN to find out!!!


Betting NFL Week 4 Click Here there are a couple of decent games in the NFL, but the rotation for the most part doesn't really get my blood pumping. Many will be interested to see if the Ravens are for real, and to see how QB Phillip Rivers handles his first true road test as a pro. The TO saga really turned the Dallas camp upside down this week, so it will be interesting to see how they perform at Tennessee. Are the Saints for real, or was their fantastic exhibition on Monday Night just a smoke screen? Tune in at 1:00 ET to find out as they take on a desperate Carolina squad. Mike Martz returns to St. Louis now as the Lions offensive coordinator. Yeah, Not interested!!!

The afternoon slate does peak my interest a bit with New England and Cincy squaring off as well as Jacksonville and the Redskins. Cincy picked up an enormous win at Pittsburgh last week, and might come out a bit flat. NE was embarrassed on Sunday Night in front of the entire world, and should come out with their hair on fire. Jacksonville not only lost to Indy once gain, but they cried about it after saying the Colts were cheating and threw too many cheap shots. Are they really ready to go into Washington and take on a skins club that finally found its offense last week? Tune in at 4:14 ET on CBS or FOX to get answers to all these questions.


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Upholding Volvo Standards

A full-size station wagon, the Volvo V70 of the Volvo Car Group is originally a development of the 850 station wagon and sedan series. A trivia for this car company is that it has a naming strategy that completely depends on the vehicles' size and body style. The car manufacturer, Volvo, in the station wagon segment adopted V (which means Versatility), S (which stands for Sedan), and C (which refers to the new Coupe and Convertible).

The Volvo V70 upholds the Volvo body style which means artless riffs on the right angle, bearing utility and beauty all in one vehicle. This vehicle has a styling that is restrained and elegant yet at the same time crisp and uplifting. It has been made available with different packages. One of these is the sport leather package that offers fine-grained hides on the steering wheel and gear-selector boot. The security package, meanwhile, features all-important mass movement and level sensors, security laminated windows, and an air-quality system. Also, the cold weather package did not fail to offer traction and stability control, heated seats, and head lamp washers and wipers. As an addition, options also included a Dolby Pro Logic in-dash four-CD audio system along with nine speakers. This audio system also comes with an astounding clarity and stereo imaging.

In its interior, the Volvo V70 holds 60/40 split rear seats that are easy to use, and also provides an impressive 71.5 cubic feet of cargo volume. The rear seats also sport two seatback-angle settings that are in a fully upright position for increased cargo space. As per safety, which is one of Volvo's main values that should not be excluded in the manufacture of their vehicles, the Volvo V70 has dual stage airbags, whiplash protection seats and ISOFIX attachment points for rear child safety seats. The ISOFIX hooks guarantee that the child buckets do not move up the side windows in case of accidents.

Overall, the Volvo V70 exudes an aura of civility, responsibility and parental role modeling. It also provides the driver a feel of traveling faster. Also, this vehicle had options laid out in reference to its engines. There is the 2.4 liter engine; the 2.4 T engine that could produce 197 horsepower, and the 2.4 T engine XC with an all wheel drive. The five-cylinder engine is able to provide a smooth performance along with a nice power from its torque production.

Volvo definitely considered comfort in the construction of the Volvo V70. The seats have been specially designed so as to provide a maximum level of support and comfort. Climate control is found on most of the models in the line up, along with high technology audio equipment with Dolby pro logic and subwoofers made available. The leather seats have become standard along with extra soft luxury leather seats as well.

Volvo Parts and Used Volvo Parts has a product line up for Volvo V70 parts that includes accessories, brakes, cooling system parts, suspension, steering, fuel injection parts, and more.

About the Author

Kenneth McKinley is a 35-year old marketing specialist of a leading auto parts dealer in the country today. Working in the car parts industry for a long time now and being a car enthusiast himself gives him a wealth of knowledge on anything automotive.

Being Forty is Not the End of the World Don't Let a Number Get You Down

So many people dread becoming forty. Why? Is it really that bad? The answer is definitely o. There are a multitude of reasons why being a little older is nothing to fear. Being a little older has its benefits. It's all a matter of keeping a positive attitude and making the best of your life.

Remember, it's only a number

If you talk to someone in their 80's, they will think you are still a child. You aren't old, just a little older than you used to be. Look at it this way; you know yourself better than you did at twenty, and now avoid the situations you had once been in, out of knowledge of what does and does not work. For example, bad relationships - through trial and error we learn what is good for us and what is not when it comes to the opposite sex. You've been there and done that. Maybe all life's questions aren't answered by now, but you are a lot more savvy to the world than you used to be through life experience. Years do that, they teach. Now that some painful past lessons have been taught, they don't need to be re-learned unless you ignored them the first time around.

Don't feel that you'll never attract a mate because you are over 40

That is nonsense. If you want to date, then date. Men who want twenty-year olds are not men you want to be with anyways. I have a certain feeling of relief not to feel the need to stuff myself in push-up bras, live in high-heels and look like a Stepford wife. I am myself, and haven't let myself go, but am no longer chained to trying to please others with my looks. When I was younger, it seemed that looks mattered so much. Now, who cares..looking good is relative. Take care of yourself mentally and spiritually. Be yourself and attract someone good for you, not someone who expects you to dress or look a certain way. Been there, done that. I learned my lessons and am glad to be done with them. Celebrate what you do have instead of what you don't have.

Do you have a loving family, a safe place to live or peace of mind?

If so, great, be proud of this. If not, then work to get these things. It's your choice how you react to the world around you so choose to think more positively about life and the good things in it. Be glad to have good health. So many people in the world are incapacitated or ill in some way, so be glad you are doing well. When I had back trouble, it humbled me and showed me how important it is to be good to my body. I stopped carrying ten bags of groceries at a time, and carrying too many heavy things. Another lesson learned. Value your health, it is the most precious asset you have.

Wrinkles? Eye Bags? Jowls?

First of all, you're your own worst critic. Chances are, any changes in your face are not that bad. If you are totally horrified about your appearance, you can always contact a plastic surgeon. Or, live with them and just look at them as proof that you are mature and not old yet, just a little older. Not a big deal unless you make it one. Just go with the flow. I had a chemical peel and laser treatment done a year ago, it was like going to a spa and not highly invasive. It took slight discolorations from the sun off my face, helping me be happier about my appearance. It has lasted a long time, and if I feel the need to do it again someday, I will. Don't worry, you won't look like someone who hit a wind tunnel, and all the skin is pushed back. Nope, that is for those addicted to plastic surgery who have gone too far with facelifts. The chemical peel and laser treatment didn't change my skin color and the afternoon session actually felt good. I recommend it highly.

Feeling overweight and want to fit back into those high school clothes?

Then prepare to work it off by daily exercise, cutting back on fat and watching what you eat in general. Throughout my life, my weight has gone up and down, depending on who I broke up with. Every time a relationship ended, I gained weight, then I'd get my second wind and work it off. Identify your eating triggers, and build discipline. Don't let food rule you, enjoy eating but in moderation. I like to cut my portions in half, if something is fattening, rather than deny myself an occaisional splurge. Then, you have two portions instead of one, and you get double the pleasure. It's a good thing.

Whatever the case may be, don't feel down about being forty. You will adjust and in a good way. It pays to be careful of your health, to ward off any future problems, and enjoy your life to the fullest while you are still young. Yes, you are still young. Talk to people who are much older and they will reassure that their lives were probably just beginning at forty. Think positive, and just go with the flow.

Carolyn McFann is a scientific and nature illustrator, who owns Two Purring Cats Design Studio, which can be seen at: http://www.cafepress.com/twopurringcats . Educated at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, Carolyn is a seasoned, well-traveled artist, writer and photographer. She has lived and worked in Cancun, Mexico, among other interesting professional assignments in other countries. Clients include nature parks, museums, scientists, corporations and private owners. She has been the subject of tv interviews, articles for newspapers and other popular media venues.

Keep Your Emotions in Check

It is easy to become emotional in a real estate transaction. After all, hundreds of thousands of dollars are involved. And even beyond that, your family is impacted -- the home is a central figure in a family's life.

Working in marketing and advertising has taught me many things over the years. The main one is that all purchases are emotional. You appeal to the emotions and that will sell an item. We buy a specific home to satisfy an emotional need.

And those needs from person to person. They can be rational, and they can be irrational. If we all purchased a property based on logic, everyone would be living in a basic home that met basic needs. A roof is all that is necessary. There wouldn't be million dollar estates. There wouldn't be differences in homes. We wouldn't be trying to show off.

But what can you do?

You know that you are going to make this decision partly based on emotion. That's fine. But don't let it override the facts. Don't walk through the home you can't turn down, yet can't afford. Don't even go there. Even though a home appears perfect to you, make sure you have it professionally inspected. Don't let your emotions tell you that the facts aren't necessary.

They are very necessary.

When you want something badly, you tend to rush into things. And that isn't always good in real estate. Make sure that you make a sound decision. Tour several homes. Compare them to each other. Look at the prices, the mortgage cost, the monthly payments and the impact to your budget. Remember that money is a very emotional thing also. You have to keep the facts in check to keep your emotions in balance.

You have to look at buying a home as a business transaction. And you have to look at selling a home as one as well. We often have hurt feelings when selling our homes, simply because we are emotional about the process. We are packing up and leaving our home. No matter how wonderful the new home will be, it is still emotional. Many an emotional speech has been made during a closing. Yet, if you keep in mind that it is emotional for everyone, perhaps your stress will be somewhat limited.

When you become emotional during real estate transactions, it simply adds to the stress of the situation. It can often ruin the whole experience for you and your family. Remember, it all will work out. If something happens, and it doesn't -- it is for the best. There are reasons that mortgages are declined. There are reasons that appraisals come in below the selling price. There are reasons that inspections turn up problems. And those are all things that protect both the buyers and the sellers. They are good things in the long run.

When you find the right home, you will know it. It will not only be in your price range and fit your familial needs, but it will draw you in emotionally. You will feel like you are at home. Good luck.

Martin Lukac represents http://www.RateEmpire.com and http://www.1AmericanFinancial.com, a finance web-company specializing in real estate and mortgage rates. We specialize in daily updates, mortgage news, rate predictions, mortgage rates and more. Find low home loan mortgage interest rates from hundreds of mortgage companies!

Statistics Auto Safety

Statistical Facts:

? Rollover crashes kill one of every four people who die in automobile accidents (1).

? Rollovers tend to occur when a vehicle runs off a road and turns over at least on its side (1).

? Sport-utility vehicles account for 17 of the 20 vehicles with the greatest risk of rollover (1).

? Three SUVs, the Chevrolet Tracker, the Suzuki Vitara and the Toyota RAV4 are most likely to roll over in more than four of every 10 accidents (1).

? The least likely SUV to roll over is the Ford Excursion (1).

? The vehicles that are least likely to turn over are the Bentley and Rolls-Royce, possessing a 1% chance of rolling over in accidents (1).

? Minivans can be expected to roll over 10% to 17.9% of the time in an accident (1).

? The 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has the greatest chance of roll over out of SUVs in a single vehicle crash at 34%. The 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe 4-DR and the 2005 GMC Yukon 4-DR have a 28% chance of rollover in a single vehicle crash (2).

? The 2005 Chrysler Pacifica 4-DR w/SAB and the 2005 Ford Freestyle 5-DR have the smallest chance of rollover out of SUVs in a single vehicle crash at 13% (2).

? The 2005 Ford Ranger 2-Dr, the 2005 Ford Ranger

Extended Cab, the 2005 Mazda B-Series Extended Cab and the 2005 Mazda B-Series 2-DR have the greatest chance of rollover out of pickups in a single vehicle crash at 30% (2).

? The 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2-DR, the 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 4-DR, the 2005 GMC Sierra 2-DR, and the 2005 GMC Sierra 4-Dr have the smallest chance of rollover out of pickups in a single vehicle crash at 15% (2).

? The 2005 Ford E-150 has the greatest chance of rollover out of vans in a single vehicle crash at 29% (2).

? The 2005 Nissan Quest Van w/ SAB has the smallest chance of rollover out of vans in a single vehicle crash at 12% (2).

? The 2005 Pontiac Vibe 4-DR, the 2005 Subaru Forester 4-DR w/SAB, the 2005 Toyota Matrix 4-DR, and the 2005 Toyota Scion xA 4-DR Hatchback have the greatest chance of rollover out of passenger cars in a single vehicle crash at 15% (2).

? The 2005 Mazda Miata/Mx-5 Convertible and the 2005 Mazda RX-8 4-DR w/SAB have the smallest chance of rollover out of passenger cars in a single vehicle crash at 7% (2).

? There are nearly 2 million injury-causing automobile crashes each year (3).

? The majority of injury-causing automobile crashes are either frontal or side crashes (3).

? More than 10,000 people die each year in rollover crashes (3).

? Safety belts can reduce the chance of being killed in a rollover by 75 percent (3).

? The purpose of safety belts is to keep a person inside of a vehicle and reduce the risk of hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield (3).

? The Anti-lock Brake System prevents the wheels of a vehicle from locking, enabling the driver to have greater steering control (3).

? Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps allow drivers to control their vehicles during extreme steering maneuvers (3).

? A tire is severely underinflated if its pressure is 25 percent below the vehicle manufacturer?s recommended tire inflation pressure (3).

? Frontal air bags do not eliminate the need for safety belts and typically do not offer protection for rollovers, side-impact, or rear-end crashes (3).

? More than 5,000 people are killed each year in large truck-related crashes (4).

? More than 110,000 people are injured in large truck-related crashes each year (4).

? Fatalities among motorcycle riders have increased by more than 89% since 1997 (5).

? Motorcyclists are about 21 times as likely as passenger car occupants to die in a traffic crash and four times as likely to be injured (5).

? Motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of death by 29% and are 67% effective in preventing brain injuries for motorcycle riders (5).

? Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for all Americans ages two to 33 (6).

? 117 people are killed daily in motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Over 500 children under the age of four, 487 children between the ages of four to seven and more than 1,600 children ages eight to fifteen were killed in motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Occupant rollover deaths accounted for 10,553 fatalities in 2006 (6).

? SUV rollover deaths increased by nearly ten percent between 2005 and 2006 (6).

? Motorcycle deaths have increased by 89% since 1997 and by 8% since 2005 (6).

? More than half of those killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2004 were not protected by a seat belt (6).

? Motor vehicle crashes cost an estimated $230 billion annually in property and productivity loss, medical and emergency bills and other related costs (6).

? Every American effectively pays a crash tax of $792 each year to cover the cost of motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Seat belts are credited with preventing 11,900 deaths and 325,00 serious injuries annually (6).

? 55% of passengers who were killed in automobile accidents were not wearing seat belts (6).

? The use of belt-positioning booster seats lowers the risk of injury to children in crashes by 59% compared to the use of vehicle seat belts (6).

? In over 5,000 child passenger deaths more than 60% of the children who were killed were riding in the car driven by an impaired driver (6).


Cited Sources:

1. Stoller, Gary (2000). Formula Predicts Rollover Risk. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.autosafety.org/article.php?did=779&scid=175

2. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2005). Model Year 2005 Rollover Ratings. Retrieved May 18, 2006 from http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/testing/NCAP/RollRatings2.cfm

3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2006). Buying a Safer Car. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/testing/NCAP/BASC2006/index.htm

4. Public Citizen. (February 2006). Trucker Hours-of-Service Rule Creates Hazard, Allows Drivers on Road for Too Many Hours, Safety Groups and Teamsters Tell Court. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/press/press2006/HOSpressrelease022706.pdf

5. Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. (2005). Fact Sheet: Motorcycle Helmets. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/issues/fs-helmets.htm

6. Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. (2006). 2006 Roadmap to State Highway Safety Laws. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/Roadmap2006.pdf

About the Author:

Sandra Worthington, Attorney at Law, obtained her law degree from Temple University in 1983. She is licensed by the Pennsylvania Bar and practices exclusively in the area of personal injury work. For more information go to The Worthington Law Group.

For holistic corporate recovery finish the full course of antibiotics of surgery resuscitation and nursing .

Seriously ill companies need to be placed in intensive care unit. As with grave medical crisis, dealing with the business failure quickly becomes extremely exhausting and requiring special care and medical attention. You need a team of specialists to intervene and take the swift control of events. This is akin to the manner that doctors, counsellors and insurance companies step in to sort out the problems in the life of a gravely ill patient.

As in a medical crisis, a company's initial ill health may suddenly deteriorate into life threatening mode. The ailment appears mild initially and may have already established a foothold in the patient much earlier. Sometimes, it can be a case of bad DNA in its business model or a genetic flaw in its corporate culture. These weaknesses predispose the firm to failure. As with very sick patients, the company's health may spiral quickly downward and eventually become irreversible. It is at this stage that these symptoms of failure become apparent. By the time the management and all the other interested parties are aware of the problem, the crisis has already escalated beyond redemption.

Many companies are falling sick due to corporate diseases such as global economic recession, competition brought forth by globalization, terrorist attacks and diseases such as SARS and bird flu. When a company falls ill, it needs to undergo the three phases of corporate turnaround, namely:

Phase 1: Surgery: This is to restructure the troubled organisation to face the harsh and new reality and quickly improve its cash flow. During this phase, the company may need to downsize, right size, re-engineer or delayer in order to turn the ailing company around. The use of financial control is critical in this phase.

Phase 2: Resuscitation: This is to revitalise the business so as to increase its sales revenues and profits. After obtaining a brief reprieve from cash flow collapse, the company has to grow its business quickly. The use of marketing strategy is important during this phase.

Phase 3: Nursing: This is to nurture and establish a strong and healthy corporate immune system in order to sustain long-term growth. After growing the business, the company needs to be strengthened to prevent a recurrence of the problems while equipping itself to handle future changes in the marketplace. The emphasis here is on innovation.

For complete corporate recovery, it is important to finish the full course of antibiotics prescribed in all the three phases. Some companies may need heavier dosages of surgery while others may require more of resuscitation and nursing. Mere restructuring through surgery alone is not good enough. As a doctor once said: The surgery was good but the patient died. Without the resuscitation and nursing phases, it is akin to not completing your antibiotics and the bacteria are not completely eradicated from the system. During the next attack, the bacteria may become more virulent as they have built up resistance against the antibiotics. Then, you may need a stronger spectrum of antibiotics to treat the mutated bacteria.

Building a strong and healthy company takes a long time in Phase 3 - it is not a one-time inoculation. It is like taking vitamin pills every day for the rest of your life in order to build a strong corporate culture, which can embrace changes.

There is another medical parallel in the deployment of techniques used in the three phases. Phases 1 and 2 can be compared to the use of Western medical system with its invasive, scientific and chemical approaches. The Western medical approach is very suitable for acute and life threatening situations where time is of essence. Phase 1 and 2 are the science of the corporate turnaround process. In phase 3, the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is more applicable, natural, holistic and philosophical. This renders it suitable for chronic and comprehensive cures. Phase 3 is the art of the corporate turnaround process.

To ensure full recovery, remember to finish the full course of antibiotics of surgery, resuscitation and nursing by the turnaround doctor.

About the Author

http://www.corporateturnaroundexpert.com

Dr Mike Teng (DBA, MBA, BEng, FIMechE, FIEE, CEng, PEng, FCMI, FCIM, SMCS) is the author of the best-selling business book Corporate Turnaround: Nursing a sick company back to health, in 2002. In 2006, he authored another book entitled, Corporate Wellness: 101 Principles in Turnaround and Transformation. Dr Teng is widely recognized as a turnaround CEO in Asia.

A Double Baby Jogging Stroller To Keep Up Exercise

If you're a new mother of twins, get ready I'm about to let you in on a secret which is quite possibly the best purchase you could make. A double baby jogging stroller. Now while you might not believe me right now hear me out and make your decision once you've read through the article Trying to find time for work, meals, sleeping and everything else life requires us to do can be tough, so it's twice as tough trying to get it all done with twins. How about regular exercise, do you get out for a brisk walk a few times a week? If not a double baby jogging stroller can help you manage your two little ones and get outside for some exercise.

Trying to get out after you've had one child is difficult. Now if you need to get two children ready and out the door you've got twice the trouble. If you have two strollers that's great if your spouse or a friend can come for a walk with you, but it doesn't help if you're on your own. The obvious benefit of having a double baby jogging strollers is that you can operate it all on your own.

Of course this stroller is a wonder for exercise, but that's not it's only use. Consider the benefit if you took it along to the mall. It's easy to maneuver, and is great for taking both your children around the store. In fact I'm sure there are some parents that utilize the mall and their double baby jogging stroller solely for exercise.

The only thing that is cuter than a baby is two babies. Nothing is more adorable than twins in a double baby jogging stroller. I love seeing this site when I am walking in my local park or at the mall. I?m sure that the parents of these little treasures don?t mind having the extra work involved with having twins.

Of course it's not just mothers of twins that can benefit from have a double stroller. What if you had two children a year or less apart. That might as well be twins right, they'll both be at similar stages in their life when their babies. Both will need similar attention and help, having a double baby jogging stroller offers the same benefits to a family with Irish Twins as it does with maternal twins.

So now do you believe me that this is a great purchase for a new mom with twins to contend with? If you're struggling to be able to get in your exercise, or just can't take a trip to the mall because you don't know how you'd manage both your children at once, consider a double baby jogging stroller, it'll keep you in shape and probably help keep you sane.

About the Author:

For more baby related articles and items visit our website about babies and more at baby Tips.

Bravado Medela Playtext and Emma Jane Today's Nursing Bras are Functional Comfortable and Sexy

Gone are the days when pregnant and nursing mothers were confined to bed. Now nursing mothers are returning to work, going out and meeting friends and other mothers and they want a nursing bra that they feel comfortable wearing and one that looks chic.

Today there are all sorts of nursing bras to meet all requirements. There are 5 types of nursing bras; bras that unhook at the front, between the cups, bras that unzip at the base of the cup, bras that have a fastener or button on the front strap to allow access, bras that are stretchy and allow very easy access, and night-time nursing bras. Maternity bras come in all sizes as well, everything from petite to plus size nursing bras. The following brands of nursing bras offer some or all of these features.

Bravado nursing bras are extremely popular. Bravado maternity bras come in one of 3 ranges: the Bravado Original Nursing Bra, the Bravado Supreme Nursing Bra, and the Bravado Lifestyle Nursing Bra. The Original Nursing bra comes in 3 styles: Basic, Plus Style and Double Plus Style. Choosing which one suits you depends on whether you're expecting, have just given birth or have been breastfeeding for a while. If you're a new mother, then the Bravado Original Nursing Bra is the one for you. All bras are made from a super-soft cotton/spandex blend fabric, for maximum support and changing body shape. The Bravado Supreme Nursing Bra is for the fuller-breasted woman. Unlike other fuller-breasted bras the Supreme isn't under-wired but still holds its shape all day long. The bra also has a delicately embossed fabric, which is strong yet silky to the touch - clothing glides over it making breastfeeding very easy. The Bravado Lifestyle Nursing Bra is a very chic - dare I say sexy - bra with a low neckline, molded cups that give an incredibly smooth, seamless shape that is very flattering under tops and dresses. The neckline and strap have a very feminine lace edge and the nursing flaps open for full access for breastfeeding.

Medela nursing bras come in many types - too many to give an in-depth review. However, here are the ranges with some comments. The Medela Comfort Bra is probably going to suit most nursing mothers. It is for both day and night time wear, and Medela says it is the only soft bra available with convenient one-hand drop cup release for easy nursing - although other manufacturers might disagree. The Medela Comfort Bra is an excellent maternity bra, though not the prettiest you can buy. The Medela Seamlees Bra Line is a superb nursing bra and it's hard to find a better nursing bra. The Seamless range all come with low neckline with a delicate lacy pattern woven right into the fabric. Medela also claim that the two-piece cup has a unique one-hand outer cup release that allows easy opening for breastfeeding - again other would disagree. The bra affords a smooth, natural line under whatever top you wear. The Seamless line comes in several types, so there's bound to be one to suit every nursing mother. The different types available are; Softcup, Full Fit and Underwire. Medela have just recently release the Sleep Bra. It is made from very soft, stretchy fabric that allows easy drawback of the cup for breastfeeding - no fiddling with buttons, clasps or zips in the middle of the night. The Medela Classic Bra is very feminine and stylish. Again, the neckline is low and the lace 'softcup' is constructed of soft and cool cotton-Lycra. The cup size also adjusts to 3 positions to allow for the changing shape of the breast throughout the day. You can also buy the Medela Extended Size Classic Bra for the fuller-breasted woman - incidentally, the bra is designed to work with the Medela Pumping Free Attachment Kit.

The Playtex Expectant Moments Nursing Bra is a very stylish maternity bra. The neckline is very low and the cups are soft inside with a pointelle fabric outside. The fabric used is polyester, cotton, nylon and spandex. The combination of fabric provides support, comfort, coolness and easy adjustment. The bra fastens by means of a double hook at the back and there are pull-down front flaps, which have a plastic clasp at the top of the cup. The Playtex Expectant Moments bra is a very stylish but very affordable nursing bra.

Goddess nursing bras are made by the same company that also manufactures Rigby & Peller, Fantasie of England, and Freya, so you can be assured of their quality. Goddess make 2 types of nursing bras, the 1001 and 511. The 1001 Goddess nursing bra is unusual as it features bold printed shapes in red, black and white, printed above the nursing cups - the idea being to visually stimulate babies while nursing. The bra is made from 100% pure cotton. The neckline is quite low and the bra has broad straps to provide maximum comfort. The 511 is the more feminine design. The 511 Goddess nursing bra is made from a cotton/polyester fabric, embossed with a lace design. It has dual shoulder strap clasps for easy breastfeeding.

As you might expect the Elle Macpherson Nursing Bra is feminine, sexy and pricey. The Elle Macpherson La Mere nursing bra is very lacey, on both straps and the stretchy lace cups. The cups are lined with 100% cotton for comfort. The Elle Macpherson Maternelle Nursing Bra is also a very beautiful nursing bra. The bra is seamless, comes with wide straps and easy clips that allow the cup to be opened with one hand. Elle Macpherson nursing bras are very feminine and sexy but they do come at a price; not a bra you might wear every day but certainly the one to wear for that special occasion.

Gone are the days when nursing mothers hid indoors. Now any mother who is breastfeeding can find a nursing bra that fits her requirements; from comfortable and plain nursing bras to expensive and stylish nursing bras. Breastfeeding mothers can now go out into the world with their heads high and their chests out.

Robin O'Brien is founder of breastfeeding information. It promotes the benefits of breastfeeding. You can find out more about what is the best nursing bra for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=RobinO'Brien

By Robin O'Brien

The Fascinating Backgammon

Sarasota Real Estate:Living in Sarasota

Sarasota is a small city in the Tampa Bay are and tourists have considered it as ?the ultimate beach town,? with its sun-kissed location on the Gulf of Mexico, more than 200 sunny days annually and an average year-round temperature of 71 Fahrenheit. The Sarasota county, which includes Venice, Northport, Longboat and Siesta Keys, has its own ballet, symphony, and opera companies. The 1800 seat Van Wezel Performing Arts Center attracts productions like the Broadway road company of Chicago. The Ringling Museum of Art, which was established by circus baron John Ringling who settled in the area in the 1920s, features an extensive collection of American and European art. If you are a sports aficionado, just an hour away from Sarasota you can witness games of the NFL?s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and arena football's Storm. The lifestyle is relatively affordable than other busy cities in the United States. With respect to other towns and cities within the Tampa Bay area, however, Sarasota does not fair much. In a cost of living composite index published in the first quarter of 2005, Sarasota scores at 105.7, which is higher than Bradenton, St. Petersburg-Clearwater and Tampa. The national average is at 100. In terms of housing, Sarasota also did not come out cheap with a 119.8 index as compared to less than a hundred for St. Petersburg-Clearwater and Tampa. Nevertheless, real estate agents in Sarasota apparently boast of low median housing prices, typically advertised around $126,000. Furthermore, Sarasota is the kind of place where one can acquire a nice, brand-new home for $200,000. Living in Sarasota is quite locally expensive, but nonetheless affordable in terms of the benefits that you can derive from living in a small city with a subtropical climate. A hefty volume of retirees have an interesting preference for living in Sarasota.

Transportation also costs relatively higher in Sarasota than in other localities around the Tampa Bay area. A recent survey on July of last year administered over residents living in Sarasota County found more people thinking that the county has become a worse place to live than it was five years ago. The respondents commonly agree that traffic in Sarasota County is among its primary headaches.

If you are a working couple with schooling kids, living in Sarasota is a recommended choice in terms of its education services and employment opportunities. The schools in Sarasota are considered to be outstanding, and the job market is invigorating. While Sarasota County's public school students in key grades outscored 95% of their peers in the whole of Florida, the city also posted job growth of 5% in the past year. Albeit a small city, Sarasota had been ranked among the top 25 metropolitan areas in the United States. Forecasts for the next 10 years see Sarasota to experience a 30.5 % increase in jobs that will effectively catapult its status to No. 7 in the entire country. Many of those jobs will come from the retail and service sectors. Sarasota may be a thriving tourist destination, but it also can compete in other industries.

Sarasota has maintained its natural treasures. Living in Sarasota provides you with the benefit of enjoying the pristine environment by enjoying activities such as canoeing and kayaking, fishing at the bay, traveling the waterways. Several islands are arrayed on the bay waters creating a sanctuary for many bird species. The waters abound with many varieties of fish including snook, tarpon and mangrove snapper. Sarasota also boasts of its dolphins and manatees. With the blessings of Mother Nature, living in Sarasota is like being on vacation every day with sunny days, blue skies, the gulf coast breeze, and miles of the best beaches.

Earl Juanico sarasota-realestate.biz

Breastfeeding And The Working Mom

The good ole days are gone when women left their employment to raise their children when they found out they were pregnant. Sad but unfortunately true. In today's socio-economic climate, it is almost always a necessity that women return to the workplace once their maternity leave is over. Of course at this point one of the problems new moms face is how to continue to breast-feed their newborn baby. Many Moms will find that breast-feeding then becomes a luxury that many nursing mothers are not able to manage due to the problems associated with both working and being able to breastfeed their new babies.

If you have to go back to work after having your baby it doesn't automatically mean you have to give up breast-feeding. Normally with a little contemplation and ingenuity, it can work out quite nicely.

You may find that many of today's firms and/or employers are becoming increasingly aware of the problems new mothers face when it comes to breast-feeding, and to be fair to their employees, the firm/employer will furnish the facilities needed for the working mother to express her milk via a pump which she can then fed to her baby. Unfortunately these types of employers are still way too few and far between, and the reality is that majority of nursing mothers will give in to defeat and start their baby on formula milk. Be diligent and pursue!

If you are lucky enough to be able to express your milk while you're at work, you will want to give prudent thought to how you are going to do it successfully.

Here are a few suggestions you may want to consider when shopping for supplies and/or equipment needed for expressing your milk at your place of work.

* A breast pump is clearly a necessity. This is your most significant piece of equipment. Don't be afraid to spend some money on this! Make certain you buy an electric pump, (this is highly recommended) and you are confident of how it works.

* You will require a cooler bag or tote to place the milk in after it's been expressed.

* Have lots of baby bottles (important... don't forget the lids). You will of course need to be sure they have been sterilized to ensure your baby doesn't get an upset tummy.

* It's also an excellent idea to have a hand breast pump just in case of any emergencies that may arise.

* Use a marker to put the date on your feeding bottles.

* Try to wear the appropriate clothing for breastfeeding. This will make the task so much easier for you.

* Have a supply of disposable pads so you don't have to worry about leakage.

You may be a high profile businesswoman, or you may be working in a factory, it really doesn't matter. What does matter is that your clothing is appropriate for both work and pumping your breast milk. The last thing you want is to go into a meeting after expressing your milk with stains on your clothes be sure you are wearing a top that is buttoned down the front; it's also a great idea to keep a napkin or tissue accessible in case you have some spillages.

Another important piece of clothing... a good maternity bra. Maternity bras open very conveniently in the front and are perfect for breast-feeding. Don't forget those breast pads in case of leakage.

All your efforts to breast-feed your baby while working will pay off in the long run. Breast milk is the most wonderful thing you can give your newborn!
About the Author

Carlie Edwards publishes online articles & useful information for Women. For info on Breastfeeding visit Breastfeeding Guide For a variety of related topics visit Health-And-Beauty-Worx.Com