Osteoarthritis - Diseases

What is this condition?

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is an ongoing process that breaks down cartilage around a bone, then causes new bone to grow around and under the affected joint. It usually occurs in the hips and knees. Osteoarthritis is widespread and affects both sexes after age 40. It can be disabling and usually gets worse as the person ages, ranging from minor dysfunction of the fingers to severe hip or knee problems.

What causes it?

Osteoarthritis, a normal part of aging, results from many metabolic, genetic, chemical, and mechanical factors. One form of osteoarthritis results from a specific event, such as a fall, an inherited deformity, or obesity that leads to degenerative changes.

What are its symptoms?

The most common symptom of osteoarthritis is deep, aching joint pain, which occurs particularly after exercise or other joint stress. The pain goes away when the person rests. Other symptoms include stiffness in the morning (again, relieved by rest), aching during changes in weather, "grating" of the joint during motion, and tight muscles that hamper movements. These symptoms are worse if the person has poor posture or job stress or is obese. When it affects the hands, osteoarthritis changes the shape of the joints and can eventually make them red, swollen, tender, and numb.

How is it diagnosed?

The doctor can assess obvious changes in the person's joints and use X-rays to see such signs as joint deformity, bony deposits, and joint fusion. There is no lab test specific for osteoarthritis, but tests can rule out other inflammatory joint problems.

How is it treated?

The doctor will prescribe medications to relieve pain and minimize stiffness. Medications include aspirin (or other nonnarcotic pain relievers), Butazolidin, lndocin, Nalfon, Advil or Motrin, or Darvon and, in some cases, injections of corticosteroids. Such injections, given every 4 to 6 months, may delay the development of new deposits in the person's hands. The person will also be taught specific exercises to promote flexibility.

Other treatments

The doctor may put the person in a brace or traction, suggest a cane or crutches for walking, and encourage other supportive measures such as massage, steam baths, paraffin (wax) dips for the hands, and exercise. Surgery is reserved for people who have severe disability or uncontrollable pain.

What can a person with osteoarthritis do?

Pace yourself. Plan rest periods during the day and be protective about getting a good night's sleep. Because osteoarthritis is not a disease of your whole body, concentrate on therapy that improves your flexibility and comfort.

Specific treatments

• Hand: Hot soaks and paraffin dips can relieve pain.

• Lower and middle back: Use a firm mattress (or bed board) to decrease morning pain.

• Neck: Check the tightness of your cervical collar; watch for redness after prolonged use.

• Hip: Use moist heat pads to relieve pain (usually with prescribed antispasmodic drugs) and do stretching and strengthening exercises. You may need to inspect your braces or a walker for proper fit.

• Knee: Regularly exercise to maintain flexibility, muscle tone, and strength. Consider a brace or an elastic wrap for support.

More good moves

• Take your medication exactly as prescribed, and report side effects immediately.

• Avoid overexertion, and learn to stand and walk without stressing joints. Be especially careful when stooping or picking up objects.

• Wear well-fitting supportive shoes; don't allow the heels to become too worn down.

• Install safety devices at home, such as hand rails in the bathroom .

• Maintain your proper weight to lessen stress on joints.

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Paget's Disease

What do doctors call this condition?

Osteitis deformans

What is this condition?

Paget's disease is a slow-paced metabolic bone disease characterized by replacement of sound bone with excessive amounts of abnormal bone. The altered bone is fragile and weak, causing painful deformities of both outside shape and internal structure. Paget's disease usually settles in one or several areas of the skeleton (most frequently the lower torso), but occasionally affects many parts of the body.

The disease can be fatal, especially when associated with congestive heart failure (widespread disease creates a continuous need for high cardiac output), bone cancer, or giant cell tumors.

What causes it?

Although the exact cause is unknown, one theory is that an early viral infection (possibly mumps) leaves behind a dormant skeletal infection that erupts many years later as Paget's disease. In the United States, Paget's disease affects approximately 2.5 million people over age 40 (mostly men). In 5% of cases, the involved bone experiences malignant changes .

What are its symptoms?

There may be no symptoms in early stages of the disease. But when pain does develop, it's usually severe and persistent and may limit the person's movement because new bone growth is rubbing on the spinal cord or sensory nerve root. The pain intensifies with exertion.

The list of potential effects includes enlarged forehead, headaches, hunchback, barrel- shaped chest, and bowed legs and other changes in gait. The affected areas are warm and tender, susceptible to breaks, and slow to heal. The disease progresses to add bone growth that interferes with sight, hearing, and balance; complications such as hypertension, gout, and congestive heart failure may develop.

How is it diagnosed?

X-rays, taken even before symptoms appear, can show increased bone expansion and density. A bone scan, which is more sensitive than X-rays, clearly shows early so-called pagetic lesions. Bone biopsy reveals a characteristic mosaic pattern. Blood tests and other laboratory tests aid early diagnosis.

How is it treated?

Primary treatment consists of drug therapy and includes one of the following:

• Cibacalcin, a hormone, given by injection, and Didronel to retard bone resorption (which relieves bone lesions). Although Cibacalcin requires long-term maintenance therapy, there is noticeable improvement after the first few weeks of treatment. Didronel produces improvement after 1 to 3 months.

• Mithracin, an antibiotic that produces remission of symptoms within 2 weeks and biochemical improvement within 1 to 2 months. However, the drug may destroy blood cells or harm kidney function. Self-administration of Cibacalcin and Didronel helps people with Paget's disease lead near-normal lives. Still, they may need surgery to reduce or prevent fractures, correct secondary deformities, and relieve pinched nerves. Aspirin, lndocin, or Advil or Motrin usually controls pain.

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Tennis Elbow - Diseases

What do doctors call this condition?

Epicondylitis, epitrochlear bursitis

What is this condition?

Tennis elbow is a painful inflammation of the forearm extensor tendon fibers at the point where they attach to the upper arm (humerus) adjacent to the elbow joint.

What causes it?

Tennis elbow probably begins as a partial tear on the involved tendon and is common among tennis players and other persons whose activities require a forceful grasp, wrist extension against resistance, or frequent rotation of the forearm. Left untreated, the condition can become disabling.

What are its symptoms?

The first symptom is elbow pain that gradually worsens and often radiates to the forearm and back of the hand whenever the person grasps an object or twists his or her elbow. Other symptoms are tenderness over the joint and a weak grasp. In rare instances, tennis elbow may cause local heat, swelling, or restricted range of motion.

How is it diagnosed?

Because X-rays are almost always negative, the doctor depends on the person's reports of pain while playing tennis or a similar activity. The pain can be reproduced by having the person move his or her wrist in a manner similar to that used when swinging a racket.

How is it treated?

Treatment aims to relieve pain, usually by local injection of corticosteroid and a local anesthetic and by taking aspirin or Indocin. Supportive treatment includes an immobilizing splint from the forearm to the elbow, which generally relieves pain in 2 to 3 weeks. Some doctors use heat therapy, such as warm compresses and ultrasound, and physical therapy, such as manipulation and massage.

A "tennis elbow strap" has helped many people. This strap, which is wrapped snugly around the forearm, helps relieve the strain on affected forearm muscles and tendons. If these measures prove ineffective, surgical release of the tendon at the hand may be necessary.

Author has an experience of more than 4 years writing about Health Care. He also holds experience writing about vitamins and diseases guide.

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The Benefits Of Shiatsu And Central Channel Release Therapy From A Practitioner In Essex

What is Shiatsu?

Originating in Japan, Shiatsu is a safe and effective therapeutic form of treatment based on 5000 years of experience. It has been called Acupuncture without needles and Japanese Physiotherapy.

It involves different techniques to soothe, balance, release and/or stimulate the body systems to enable ease and relaxation to return to the body.

Shiatsu is holistic, taking into account the emotional, mental and spiritual needs, as well as the physical. It is beneficial for all individuals including those who do not have a specific condition and can be adapted for specific clients such as children, people with disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly. Clients remain dressed throughout the treatment.

Shiatsu practitioners undertake professional training for 3 years to qualify for the Diploma.

Conditions that Shiatsu benefits or helps to prevent

Physical pain from headaches, stiff neck, back problems, whiplash, frozen shoulder, repetitive strain injury, sports injuries and sciatica.

Reproductive issues, menstrual and menopause problems.

Support during pregnancy and childbirth.

Digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome.

Asthma, eczema, insomnia, stress, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety and palpitations.

Weak immune system resulting in a repetitive cycle of infections.

Rheumatism, arthritis, M.E. and fatigue.

Support during illnesses such as cancer, stroke and addictions.

Many people, including myself, have regular Shiatsu treatments to maintain a healthy balance and to help prevent illness from occurring.

Central Channel Release

Central Channel Release is an advanced Shiatsu technique. It is very gentle and extremely effective at recovering energy that is tied up in maintaining old mental, physical and emotional patterns. This energy can then be used by the body to heal and to increase potential and fulfilment in life.

Central Channel Release may benefit you by:

Helping you to enjoy and appreciate life more fully
Transforming symptoms or conditions that are hard to shift
Helping you to unblock stuckness so that projects can move ahead
Enabling you to feel more confident and be more effective
Enhancing your relationships
Moving you forwards in your career or job
Overcoming feelings of being under pressure or overwhelmed Gaining vision, creativity and enthusiasm

For more information please see Well Being One - Shiatsu

Article submitted by Alison Hosking of Well Being One in Colchester, Essex. Please see http://www.wellbeingone.org for more information. Alison has qualified as a Shiatsu practitioner registered with The British School of Shiatsu-Do and is a member of the professional body The Shiatsu Society. She now runs a busy clinic in Essex.

Article submitted by http://www.1websitedesigner.com

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Understanding Heath Information, Health

The first and perhaps most difficult challenge for consumers is to make sense out of the health information explosion. Many popular magazines regularly print health articles, newspapers often devote entire sections to medicine, the publications of health newsletters abound, television programs feature numerous health stories, and a plethora of scientific health-related studies are published daily. There are an estimated 20,000 scientific, technical, and medical articles published each year worldwide and this does not include the larger number of non­technical articles. Interest in health information appears to have reached an all-time high.

The availability of so much health information has drawbacks; the major drawback is that so much of the information is confusing, sometimes even contradictory . Even medical experts have trouble separating fact from fiction. It is not unusual to see some new finding headlined one day and completely refuted the next. It has been speculated that as much as 50% of the medical advice we follow to­day will be considered obsolete, or at least will undergo major modification, during the next 5 years. For some people the ubiquity of refutations and contradictions leads to an attitude sometimes referred to as health fatalism, which maintains that nothing can be believed. People with a fatalistic view disregard health information because they believe that new findings will inevitably disagree with facts previously accepted as true.

Several examples illustrate this point. Sodium has long been associated with cardiovascular disease. In 1995, however, researchers found that men and women who consumed less sodium had more heart attacks. This finding made headlines in the popular press. Reactions were swift and strong. Hypertension patients who agonized over bland, low-salt diets for years threw up their hands in disbelief and despair. Reducing sodium intake was no longer a good idea, to the contrary it increased the risk of early death. It should be of little surprise therefore that countless numbers of people felt deceived and misled. The resultant fatalistic view toward health care and medical advice was understandable. What the headlines didn't say is that the people adversely affected by low sodium intake were hypertension patients taking drugs to lower blood pressure. In other words the results were based on a very specific population group that didn't represent the population at large or even mainstream hypertension patients. Also it was undetermined whether the study population engaged in other behaviors (cigarette smoking, sedentary lifestyles, etc.) that might be more responsible than sodium for heart disease.

Hot dogs are another good example. Researchers found that children who eat more than a dozen hot dogs a month had nine times the normal risk of childhood leukemia. This was the featured headline in a nationwide television news show broadcast during prime time. Public reaction bordered on the hysterical. Scared parents overreacted partly be­cause of irresponsible practices in television journalism and partly because they didn't demand all the facts. They believed the story was completely true simply because it was reported in the news. In the big picture of leukemia research, this was just one very preliminary study that had some serious short­comings. For instance, the results were based on crude dietary histories. Also, researchers could not determine whether it was the hot dogs or something else that hot dog eaters do or eat that might increase the risk of leukemia. If there is a cause-and-effect relationship between hot dogs and leukemia, it will take larger, more sophisticated studies to prove it.

The point of these examples is that an appropriate approach to health information is to adopt a skeptical and suspicious attitude, especially toward extreme and sensational health claims. The First Amendment to the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of the press, also guarantees Americans the right to publish health-related hogwash. The more you read, generally the more conflicts and contradictions you will uncover. This should not make you feel uncomfortable but, to the contrary, make you realize that medicine is still as much art as science.

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Sleep Panic Attacks - No Rest For The Weary

Sleep disorders and panic attacks seem to go hand in hand. With all the stress and busyness in our lives we seem to be sleeping less and doing more on less sleep., thus not giving our bodies that much needed break from life for the eight hours that it requires to rebuild and strengthen our bodies back to normal. Having a sleep disorder can make a person more prone to anxiety attacks and then panic attacks which are worse than anxiety. Panic attacks can occur while you are asleep when they get really bad and you wake up into a full blown panic attack which is the worst.

When you fall asleep at night your body goes through the dreaming processes to that it can relax and the mind can sort and deal with the days events. If you have a problem and need a solution, when you go to bed and get a good nights sleep then in the morning you can usually come up with the answer to the question. This has allowed your body and mind to collect thoughts and ideas that were pertinent to the solution. When you are running on empty that is just what is happening. The mind has no more energy to think because the brain has used all the body's reserves.

The brain uses most of the body's calories and requires the most refueling from the food we eat. Also not getting enough sleep will deprive the body of reserves for the brain to think and be able to deal with the stress. When you have those sudden overwhelming feelings of too much stress that we seem to be getting now a days and you have not gotten the proper sleep then the brain cannot deal with processing those emotions and will send your mind and body into a tailspin thus it can cause an overwhelming response to those stressers that are causing you distress and then comes the dreaded anxiety. Then with further insomnia and not enough sleep you can get the dreaded panic attacks which are worse than anxiety and get them when you do sleep.

Most people who have sleep panic attacks are in a vicious cycle. Panic attacks can cause insomnia and when they are very tired can have panic attacks right in their sleep bringing them fully awake into a panic attack thus creating a vicious cycle. We need to slow down and catch our breath and say is it really worth worrying about. If it is then we need to get help to deal with the problem that may be making us miserable because it may the body's way of saying hey you need help dealing with this or stop and slow down, I need a break. Medications and therapy will go a long way to combat this sleep destroyer and give people back their peace of mind. A doctor can prescribe several different kinds of medications that will combat the panic attacks and also a sleep medication so that a person can get their mind at ease to deal with todays stresses.

Quick and Easy Ways to Relieve Anxiety.You Don't have to Be Stressed Out

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Relapsing Polychondritis - Skin Disorders

Patients with relapsing polychondritis usually present with dramatically swollen, painful, red ears. Sometimes, the nose is involved in a similar manner. These skin changes reflect the presence of massive inflammatory changes in the underlying cartilage. Such changes occurring in the larynx, trachea, and bronchi may result in death. Ocular and articular abnormalities may also be present.

Reiter's Syndrome

This disease occurs almost entirely in men. The cutaneous lesions of Reiter's syndrome are essentially identical with those that occur in psoriasis. Pustular plaques on the palms and soles, together with small red scaling plaques on the glans penis, are characteristically present. Ocular inflammatory disease, sacroiliitis, and arthritis of the spine and larger peripheral joints complete the syndrome. Most patients with Reiter's disease have an HLA haplotype that includes B27. Episodes of disease activity may be triggered by a variety of infectious etiologies.

Behcet's Syndrome

Behcet's syndrome is characterized by the presence of aphthous-like ulcers of the mouth and genitalia. These changes are usually accompanied by arthritis, uveitis, and a variety of neurologic changes. Thrombophlebitis, gastrointestinal involvement, erythema nodosum, and a peculiar pustular response to skin trauma (pathergy) are occasionally present.

Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is characterized by the presence of noninfectious, noncaseating granulomas of many organs, including the skin. The most distinctive skin lesions consist of clusters of small, nonscaling, violaceous to skin-colored, dome-shaped papules. These papules are most often found on the face and neck. Coalescence of the papules to form annular plaques is frequently noted. Larger nodules and plaques are sometimes found on the trunk and extremities. Involvement of cutaneous scar tissue with sarcoidal granulomas is highly characteristic. Erythema nodosum of the lower legs frequently accompanies active lesions of sarcoid occurring in the lungs. Biopsy of the skin lesions (except those of erythema nodosum) reveals the characteristic granulomas and allows confirmation of diagnosis to be made on clinical examination. Recently, a mycobacterial origin for sarcoidosis has been postulated.

Acquired Immuno dificiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Several types of skin lesions are found in AIDS and, in fact, are often of help in making this diagnosis. The lesions of Kaposi sarcoma occur in about 25% of the patients. They consist of red to violaceous, smooth-surfaced papules and nodules. Lesions may be found anywhere on the body, but the most frequent distribution includes the face, arms, trunk, and mucous membranes. The lesions of AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma differ from those of classical Kaposi's sarcoma in that the former are smaller in size, are violaceous rather than blue-black, and are distributed on the upper half of the body instead of the legs. Less characteristic findings in AIDS include oral candidiasis, oral hairy leukoplakia seborrheic dermatitis of the face, minute pruritic erythematous papules and pustules of the trunk, and various other types of cutaneous opportunistic infections.

Author writes about free beauty tips. He also writes about yoga and skin care advice.

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Sustainable Development On The Stump - Environmental Policies Of Obama, Clinton, And Mccain

How will U.S. environmental and energy policies look in 2009? With the primaries winding down, we're starting to get a better idea. Senator Barack Obama fancies himself on this issue, as on most, a man of vision. Senator Clinton calls above all for accountability. The presumed nominee of the Republican Party, Senator John McCain, has very noble beliefs. Because recent polling shows that environmental issues like global warming aren't at the top of voter priorities, it is doubly important to press candidates about clarifying their positions. So, what are candidates saying now about environmental and energy policies?

Obama's rabble rousing oratory capacities have awed and inspired many; however if you watch a clip of him on the stump it is easy enough to see how he is guilty of espousing what one journal describes as a "vague uplift". While hardly a death blow, this claim is at present especially damaging for its implicit contrast to the "crisp detail" famously proffered, and willingly delivered on cue, by the Clinton machine.

Not so in the policy literature. Hillary's showing is respectable, to be sure; however it is Obama's campaign webpage that wins my top marks for clear, effective and economical presentation of his intended approach. In the field of carbon emissions, he aims to impose a market-based cap-and-trade system with the ultimate goal of reducing emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels by mid-century. He would utilize some of the revenues generated in carbon-credit auctions to ease the burden of those negatively impacted by the enormous economic transition.

Obama believes in a massive investment in clean energy initiatives. As president he would "invest $150 billion over 10 years to advance the next generation of biofuels and fuel infrastructure", with the specific goal of ensuring that newly developed technologies are commercialized and brought to market in the United States and beyond. He would pursue an ambitious campaign to double funding for energy research and development. He would invest to ensure labor supply in a "clean technologies workforce" and to bring clean technologies to manufacturing centers such as Detroit. Obama would actively pursue the development of coal technologies cleaner than those which are presently in use. His hope to move toward oil independence is founded on the improvement of fuel efficiency standards. To do this he would provide guarantees to auto manufacturers that experiment with new engines and lightweight materials. This would be parcel to a broader national campaign of efficiency improvement; other incentives would include grants for local governments that implement building codes more favorable to energy efficiency.

The final pillar of his environmental policy is the restoration of American leadership on climate change. He would create a new Global Energy Forum to facilitate communication amongst the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases, and would further pursue coordination within the framework of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Senator Clinton's proposals are remarkably similar to Obama's on a number of levels. She too favors a cap-and-trade system which would see 100% of permits auctioned; she too hopes to invest $150 billion over ten years in "new energy" (some of the bills to be footed by corporations); and she too hopes to double federal investment in energy research. She has established timetables of national goals for energy reduction and use of clean energy similar to those of Obama. And finally, she too favors efforts to increase automobile fuel efficiency, specifically through the provision of $20 billion in "Green Vehicle Bonds" to American automakers. It would be interesting to see a chronological side-by-side of their respective policy evolutions.

In her traditional mass appeal to America's middle and lower-middle classes, there is finally something of a differentiation, if it is more one of form than function. In addition to supporting "green collar" jobs, she would seek to modernize 20 million existing low income homes to improve energy efficiency. She would initiate a "Connie Mae" program to ease the acquisition of green homes by low and middle-income Americans. And finally she would require all new federal buildings to comply with zero-emissions specifications.

There is one commendable initiative unique to Clinton. She would oblige publicly-traded companies to include estimations of financial risk posed by climate change in annual reports submitted to the federal Securities and Exchange Commission. However such a policy might be of limited effectiveness if companies included the estimations only to appease the requirement without genuine regard for its implication.

To end the investigation, it is John McCain who receives poor marks, not for benevolence of intentions but for clarity of vision. In five short and murky paragraphs, it is he who commits the sin of "vague uplift", failing to elicit a single clear policy initiative through verbose allusions to the forces of a cap-and-trade regime. In the spirit of Teddy Roosevelt he believes in preserving America's natural majesty. His belief that "America's economic and environmental interests are not mutually exclusive, but rather inextricably linked" is all fine and well. But I would hope to see a more clear-eyed expression of his means to this end. In a video clip tagged to the page, the Senator expresses his belief that the United States should join the Kyoto Protocol if China and India could be brought onboard. This suggests another debate which I evoked in last week's column concerning the respective sacrifices of developed and developing nations in the battle to cut greenhouse emissions. Finally, citing the instability of many oil-producing states, McCain too advocates energy independence for the United States. America has been a net importer of oil for decades; true independence is only achievable through the intensive use of renewables and a great push to improve conventional fuel efficiency.

I hazard to presume that more specific policy proposals will become readily available from the McCain campaign as November approaches.

Copyright (c) 2008 Daniel Lafleche

Daniel Lafleche is the co-founder of Alternative Channel, a website dedicated to giving non-profit organizations concerned with issues of sustainable development, environmentalism, and humanitarian issues an online forum for their video content. You can learn more at http://www.alternativechannel.tv

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Electrostatic Precipitation - The Finest Air Filtration

Electrostatic precipitation has been around since the early 1900s. It was first commercialized in 1907 by Dr. Frederick G. Cottrell. Since then, it has become a major player in the purification industry.

Why Is Electrostatic Precipitation The Best?

Escaping Particulates

With electrostatic precipitation, extremely small particulates (.01 - 1 micron) can be filtered out. The smallest particulates a Hepa filter can filter out is .3 microns. This means that for every 10,000 particles which pass through a filter, the electrostatic filter lets 1 (or less) escape and the Hepa filter may let 3 escape. We compare electrostatic filtration with Hepa filtration because Hepa filters are considered to be the second best form of filtration. Hepa filtration is used primarily to remove dust, pollen, mold spores. In addition, electrostatic filtration goes a step further by removing bacteria, viruses, cigarette smoke, and chemical fumes.

Cost

Electrostatic precipitation is less expensive, in the long run. It is more expensive in the original purchase. However, you will save, in the long run, because you don't have to buy replacement filters. Replacement filters can be quite expensive and inconvenient to replace. Keep in mind, that the ion charged plates need to be cleaned regularly for maximum performance.

The fan does not need to be as powerful. Hepa filters push air through a fine filter. The design requires a heavy duty fan to push the air. Electrostatic models have virtually no wind resistance and don't require the pushing power of other models.

Recommendations:

Hepa and electrostatic filtration are both effective. Hepa has one distinct advantage in that it doesn't produce ozone. Too much ozone is not good to breath and some electrostatic models have been know to produce excess ozone. All things considered, a hybrid electrostatic (Hepa and electrostatic combined) is our preferred filtration method.

Finally, any form of air filtration should have a good fan. Air must be circulated throughout the entire home. Don't consider an electrostatic purifier that is silent (no fan). In addition, if you purchase a purifier with Hepa filtration make sure there is a pre filter. Pre filters are much less costly to replace.

For further information, please visit Air Purifiers Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristy_Snow

Persistence Is Key

I guess the most important question for businesses is how to get massive sales right away - not only massive but quick sales as well.

This is easily said than done. To achieve this, there are three important things that a business person or an entrepreneur should posses: dedication, persistence and most especially hard work. It is just unfortunate that not all who have businesses however, have the right ingredients. They usually give up when the going gets tough.

I know somebody who has ventured into the restaurant business three times. She has failed twice yet she keeps on going. I asked her what motivates her to keep on going. She answered by saying that only the tough gets going. I admire her for her perseverance but when I asked her what kind of marketing plan she employs, she said, "well, I rely on my network and use word of mouth advertising and if I have money to spare I put in a few ads here and there."

She had all the ingredients, she was dedicated, persevering, and hard working but she did not have the right business acumen. Don't get me wrong; but all businesses must have a marketing plan. Word-of-mouth strategies work but I doubt it if it can sustain the business. Secondly, her social network will not be able to sustain the business if there is no conscious effort to expand it.

After talking to her, I was able to convince her that she should develop a marketing plan. So I suggested to her that she place regular ads in the local newspaper. It turned out that she had tried it before through a one full page ad and she hardly got any business out of it. Since then, she became more averse to advertising.

I explained to him that persistence is the key. So I suggested to her a strategy of putting small ads in the newspaper for the rest of year rather than spending for a one time full page ad. After six months, I know she started noticing new customers in her restaurant.

Soon after, I introduced her to a few more strategies. I got her to use postcard marketing. This was totally new to her so she was a bit apprehensive at first, but after a few weeks, she noticed new families that she has never seen before in her establishment. Later, she thought about including cut-off coupons in her postcards to gauge whether this was in fact bringing more business. Lo and behold, she got more than a hundred coupons on the very first day of her dinner special.

Now, her marketing plans include several other gimmicks. The key, as she recommends to restaurateur friends, is perseverance.

For more information, you can visit this page on postcard printing and postcard marketing

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Don't Hack Me - Password Security

I am ashamed to admit it but I use the same password for many of my online accounts. Using the same password for access to online accounts is a hacker's dream. A hacker only needs to get into one of my accounts, find the password and hack all my other online accounts. But, how do you have a different password for each account? I use the internet regularly and have plenty of online accounts, which only makes me more vulnerable than someone with one or two. Here, I outline some easy steps to avoid being hacked.

1. Passwords can contain characters, numbers and symbols. Longer passwords are safer. Each character or number is a barrier against being hacked. So the longer your password is, the better.

2. Your password should not contain obvious dates, names and numbers. Being random is the safest option. Don't use family names, pet's names, birth dates, ID numbers or other obvious words.

3. Change your password regularly. The more regularly you change your passwords, the easier it will be for you to get into this beneficial habit. Try to change your passwords on a monthly basis.

4. To make it even harder for hackers, use different usernames for each online account. Blocking entry for hackers will require a certain amount of creativity on your part. Having an unusual username and password will keep the hackers out of your online accounts (try using the shift key to insert symbols)

5. Keep a note of your usernames and passwords. A diary or notebook is a handy place to write down your online accounts access details. Programs like excel can be useful for you to keep track of your passwords. Backing up your data is also a good idea, as this means if you store your information on your computer, you can make a copy of the details in case of system failure.

6. Keep your password to yourself; the fewer people who know your password, the better.

Every day more people are using the internet at home. The convenience of being able to pay accounts and bills through online banking is attractive. No more waiting in cues at the post office to pay monthly bills and waiting in lines at bank branches to manage bank accounts. The internet is a doorway for dubious and crooked behavior. Be on the lookout for internet-based scams. Do not enter your username and password on a page that looks dodgy. Always open a new browser when dealing with your bank online.

Being alert and internet-safety aware will help you keep your online account dealings secure. Username and password information is much like your credit card or bank card secret pin: safeguard that information and protect your private online accounts.

References:

Password Safety
http://www.attackdenied.com/password_safety.htm

Password Safety and the Internet, How Safe is Yours?
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/408286/password_safety_and_the_internet_how.html

Password safety
http://its.unc.edu/news/blog/2007/11/14/password-safety/

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Review - House Sitters

If you have a vacation planned and would like to use a house sitter service. This house sitter review is for you to become familiar with what to expect. Most people are not aware of the services offered by house sitters and this will educate you on what to expect.

House sitters are becoming more popular these days with people that are away from their home for an extended period of time. If work or vacations will cause you to leave your home then a housesitter may be an option you should consider.

The security concerns these days are on everyone's mind. Even an alarm system is not enough any more. A house sitter can solve many issues that you face when planning your stay away from home.

Some house sitting services will send someone to your home once or twice a day. While there, this person will get the mail, water the plants, open or close the curtains, and make it appear that you are home. These services will even water and feed your pets and walk them for you.

While this is really a great service and help for you, this housesitter review would recommend a little more. The reason is because the services that only visit your home once or twice a day still leave your home empty for up to 23 hours a day. That would still leave a doubt in your mind concerning the safety of your home.

The best house sitter services will provide you with someone to live in your home while you are gone. Now before you go off the deep end think about this. The best service providers do there homework. They thoroughly screen those that will be in your home. You could also ask to see the background check of the person that will be house sitting for you.

The best thing about having a house sitter live in your home is someone will be there more than once or twice a day. The pets can be taken care of better. Your home will actually be lived in, not just made to look like it. Criminals can tell the difference.

It is like having a person rent your home while you are away. Except you will pay them instead of you getting paid. The house sitter can notify you of any problems that need your attention. The best services will also help you to pick the right person for the job so you won't be on your own.

If you want to do a house sitter review of your own, there are plenty of websites you can visit. When the service of a house sitter is something that is needed then you will be more educated on where to look.

This article by Terry Simpson who is the owner of http://www.businessideadepot.com

Did you find this house sitter review useful? You can learn a lot more about how housesitters can help you at http://housesittersreview.wordpress.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=T_L_Simpson

What Are Your Golf Clubs Covers Saying About Your Personality?

Golf club covers were designed to protect the clubs from striking each other, from weather and incidental damage while in the bag, they make the clubs more identifiable at a glance, and provide a personal touch to a golfers clubs.

Golf club covers are protective covers that slide over the head of a golf club. There are so many different styles and designs that at first glance; it may seem they are more of a novelty item than a piece of golf equipment. However, golf clubs are expensive and club covers are designed to protect your investment. A fun and fashionable advantage is the wide variety of styles available in the market today.

There are several different designs of golf club covers. Some designs coordinate with other golf accessories, some are fun novelty designs and others are basic. Golf club covers are made of many different types of materials, from leather to neoprene. Choosing club head covers is really a matter of personal preference. Some head covers are designed to stretch over the golf club head, while others may zip on and off. The application and removal of head covers for frequently used golf clubs is important to consider when purchasing head covers. If the covers are difficult to remove and replace, they will become more of a nuisance.

Golf club covers are designed for each type of club and made to specially fit putters, irons and woods. There are club head covers available to suit almost every interest like favorite sports teams or personalities with color. Typically, the golf club covers for woods are the novelty covers you might see on the course. Novelty covers range from animals to cartoon characters and can be found at many pro shops and online stores.

Licensed characters such as Betty Boop might be found at a Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) tour. Although golf club covers were originally designed for protecting the golf clubs, the styles available keep things interesting and personal. What a great way for golfers to express themselves in fun and fashionable, yet purposeful way. What are your golf clubs covers saying about your personality, hobbies, or style?

Bella Golf Wear is your source for very stylish yet, functional ladies golf apparel and golf accessories from top designers. visit us at http://www.bellagolfwear.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Burton

3 Effective Affiliate Advertising Methods

So you're new to the world of affiliate marketing but have spent some time on getting yourself at least a basic education. You now understand the importance of having a system in place to build a long-term business model and have got your own website, opt-in form, free report,auto responder and follow up email messages all ready and waiting for visitors, just to realise that you have the most modest of advertising budgets to work with.

The question is what do you do next? Thankfully there are a number of options available that provide the opportunity to advertise your affiliate business without the need to spend a lot of money. Having said that it should also be remembered that although these free methods are very effective, it can take time to build momentum. However in the absence of money to advertise you need hard work and determination to succeed with whatever situation you find yourself with.

So lets take a look a t some of the free methods available to you:-

1.One of my personal favourites is that of writing articles, articles can be used in various ways. The first of which involves the writing of articles built around keywords associated with your product you are promoting. Your keyword should be contained no more than once per paragraph and once in your title as well, try and keep Your article to 300 to 500 words so that you maintain the readers interest.

At the bottom of the article you are allowed to do a little bit of advertising about the website you would like the reader to visit, this is known as your resource box and should be compelling so that your visitor clicks through to your website. You then submit your article to sites such as Ezine articles for example.

2.Blogging- the two main types of blogs are blogger.com and word press type blogs. My own preference is word press because I believe it provides me with more functionality, you need to have a domain name and hosting with word press but I believe the extra effort is worth it, many a resource is now available to show you how to use this platform.

So how does this work, your blog is like an on-line diary where you feature articles called blog posts, you can allow or block comments been made about your posts. If you allow comments you are building back links to your site that assist your blogs popularity. To start with you can post your articles submitted to article directories.

Other things you can do are:

1. Join Blogging communities like (MyBlogLog)

2. Use Social Networks like pingomatic, pin goat, feed shark, technorati, dig and much more.

3. You can leave comments on blogs associated with your niche.

Your blog can be used as your marketing hub directing links to your other sites and offers, just offer good quality and relevant content and you will build interest and traffic.

3. Forums-These are sites where like minded people swap comments on points of interest. Forums have different rules on what you can and cannot do, some will allow resource boxes where you can make small advertisements. However proceed carefully to begin with, the secret is not to oversell just enter into debates, answer forum, questions if you are an expert who can offer some thing to the conversation. In time you will find trust will grow and you will start seeing traffic results from your forum threads.

These are three of the most popular ways of driving free traffic to your site and represent just a small amount of a number of more free methods available. The purpose of the article is not to provide a comprehensive list, but to illustrate that whether you have a budget or not you can still find effective free methods to provide your site with visitors.

Get your affiliate marketing business off to a good start, visit Secret Affiliate Cash and pick up your Free Affiliate Marketing Report that's Secret Affiliate Cash enjoy and learn! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Raine

Affiliate Marketing Ebook-The Difference Between Success And Failure!

You've come on-line in the belief you can be the next affiliate millionaire! Driven by the stories of success everything appears easy. However the one true sobering statistic is that 95% of affiliates never make any money, or no money to right home about at the best. So does this mean you should give in before you start? Quite simply"No", what it does mean is that you will need to seek the help of a good affiliate marketing ebook, there are a number of them out there that can assist you from adding to the 95% that don't make it. Don't get discouraged by this just wake up to the reality!

The business of building an affiliate empire is not an easy one and it does take time, effort and dedication. For all the fact it is often seen as the easiest of routes into an internet business, it still remains a complex business model and one that requires a steep learning curve and hence why you need to seek the teachings of a good affiliate marketing ebook to take you through all the steps A to Z of building a business.

There is no stigma attached to seeking help, rather this than attempt to find your own way losing both time and money. There is much involved, from the choosing of your product, and how your going to promote the product of your choice. It is not as easy as directing visitors to a web page, them buying, you getting paid etc. If this was the case there would be more than the top 1% making the real on-line riches. Instead they work a system for doing the following:

1.Establishing a niche that sells

2.Deciding what is a good quality product for them to put their name to and promote.

3.Building a website for that product, should it be a review page or a squeeze page

4.Setting up a auto responder and email campaigns

This just simplifies some of the thoughts that need to be considered but illustrates how powerful it can be to have an affiliate marketing ebook that can explain in detail what you need to implement at each step to set things up correctly.

There are a number of things that can prevent your success within affiliate marketing two of which sit at the end of the same scale.

1.Lack of education-find the right type of affiliate marketing ebook and remember that knowledge is power. If you understand the principles involved you are half way there to succeeding

2.Information overload, once you have established a trusted source, don't confuse your self with so many guides and books that you are paralysed by not knowing which way to turn.

There are a number of things that you will require and these can only be found from within. The right mindset, determination and discipline, a never say die attitude. Your own attributes when married up with the skills you will require to learn will ultimately determine whether you win and are in the top 1% or fail and are with the 95% not making money.

Finally don't let anyone convince you that you can make money on-line without working hard and seeking help in this case from an affiliate marketing ebook, guide or report. This is not weakness but pure business and commercial common sense.

Follow this fully automated system and take away the technical headaches that can prevent you earning thousands each month from your own affiliate business. Click here to find out how: http://www.secretstoaffiliatecash.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Raine

What Do You Need To Be A Successful Affiliate Marketer?

Everyone has a differing opinion on what is needed to become a successful affiliate marketer and this includes opposing views on whether you should or should not have your own website. For my own part I believe that having some form of web site should be a mandatory aspect of you building your business. It is true that you can conduct affiliate marketing without a website, but when you consider that a number of the marketing methods available are used whether you have a site or not you might as well have sight together with a list building element for future growth and security. So what do you need?

1.You need to establish the niche you would like to promote- your starting point could be an interest, so that you are comfortable with the content of the subject. If you wish to promote digital products you can search Click bank to determine if there is a good match for your chosen area of interest.

2.Check demand, is your chosen area popular. Often opinion would suggest that an area full of competition should be avoided, but remember that this is also where the money is so is there something you could be doing better, your site, free offers etc.

3.Conduct keyword research for your chosen product, dig deep for popular search terms with limited competition so that you can build marketing campaigns. It is possible to find popular and competitive niches with long tail keywords that allow you to compete in even the most competitive of areas. To achieve this and save hours of detailed you would need to invest in some specialist keyword research tools.

4.Purchase a domain and arrange hosting. Your domain ideally needs to have your chosen main keyword in it, at the very least some link to the niche you are looking to market.

5.Your own website-although you could direct your marketing efforts directly to the merchants website, remember you are also working hard for this traffic, once its passed on its gone. If you build your own site you can implement list building techniques to secure this traffic and direct it to your merchants site.

6.Your site will require a opt-in form and be coded to accept a third party auto responder such as aweber.

7.In exchange for your visitors name and email address, you need to offer them a valuable free gift, this could be a free report, software, membership linked to the product your promoting.

8.A follow up series of email messages-it is a well known fact that if some one is going to buy it may take several looks at the offer before purchasing.

9.You then need to have an affiliate marketing strategy, including what methods of promoting you are going to use and over what period ot time you are going to measure these results and evaluate what to do next.

This is the key ingredients of one of the methods for promoting affiliate products, others would differ by operating a review page as opposed to a squeeze page web site, and other considerations need to surround whether to promote physical or digital products or both.

Other important factors are the quality of the product and the reliability of the affiliate scheme. Before promoting any product be sure of the products value, remember your reputation is on-line when promoting a product of your choice and it is you that are giving it your vote of confidence. If you choose a product of low quality this will effect you and your business.

Also be sure that you are confident in the affiliate scheme to pay you what you are owed and on time. Lastly any good affiliate scheme should provide you with as much support as is possible in the way of ads for your promotions. They have a vested interest in your success if there is no effort in this support I would recommend that you choose again.

Get your affiliate marketing business off to a good start, visit Secret Affiliate Cash and pick up your Free Affiliate Marketing Report that's Secret Affiliate Cash enjoy and learn! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Raine

What's the Real Meaning of a Gift? Avoiding the Post-Christmas Blues

Christmas has come and gone, the New Year is here, the children are back at school, and most of us have settled into some form of a "normal" schedule. It is the time of year in which we hear and read statistics about the exorbitant cost of Christmas, in terms of dollars per capita, months of work required to pay for it, and post-Christmas, stress-induced sicknesses - the good ol' Post-Christmas Blues.

If you're one of the folks who have last-minute-shopped, given "duty" gifts, or are feeling stressed-out about how you are going to pay your credit card bill, this article may push your hot-buttons.

My intent is to offer some clarity, from my perspective, on the real meaning of a gift - giving and receiving.

For many retail businesses, the Christmas season is "pay day." As a broad generalization, that indicates we believe Christmas to be a time of the year where we have a duty to spend our money to buy something for another person. It's tradition. We "have-to" give a gift to them because we know they will give one to us, or maybe they already have. The same obligatory belief applies to birthdays, anniversaries, and Happy-Hallmark day. This seems to apply whether we can afford it or not and it can create much stress in our lives.

In our ego minds we justify these "traditionalisms" and call them "gifts of love." However, it seems that the love may be conditional, as in:

• "I feel guilty because I'm sure she spent more on me than I did on her."
• "I don't like it, but I'll have to wear it because he gave it to me."
• "We have to hang it up somewhere; otherwise she'll think we don't like it, or her."

I know this happens because I've been there.

Folks, I think we're missing the point.

A gift is a sharing of love. Giving is a wonderful, heart-warming experience. And every day can be filled with the joy of gifting, with a conscious awareness of this intrinsic purpose. There is no duty or obligation to give the gift. I do it because I want to share love. The gift can be a warm smile, a helping hand, a kind word, a bag of freshly-baked cookies, or a Mercedes Benz car. They all have the same value. The gift is the thought of love, and the gesture or item is the representation of the thought. Once I have given the gift, my part is done. I have experienced the joy and happiness in giving - I have shared love. There are no strings attached. From that point on, I have absolutely no attachment to the gift anymore. The receiver can scowl at me, cuss at me, throw the cookies away, give the cookies to someone else, wreck, or sell the car.

You may be thinking, "Ohhhh, come on, you'd care if they wrecked the car!"

I repeat my statement; I have experienced the joy and happiness in giving - period.

The flip-side of giving is receiving. When someone has shared their love with me by giving me a gift, my response is a genuine, "Thank you." If I say things like:

• "You shouldn't have done that"
• "That's too much", or
• "I don't need or want anything",

the underlying message I am giving the other person is that I don't want their love. That definitely is not my intent, however that may be the message the other person hears and understands. When I receive graciously, I am allowing the other person the wonderful experience of sharing his or her love. In effect, I am giving a gift back by doing this.

If you follow this process, the giving and receiving continues to happen. I give a flower, she gives a "Thank you," I give a smile, she gives a hug, I give kind words, she gives some back, and on and on it goes. The most important part is the thoughts of sharing love. It's so easy.

How could we be bitter, resentful, or angry with anyone if this was habitual everyday with everyone we met?

Since the start of the year is about charting a course for the future, here's a challenge for you to add to your list, if you choose to accept it. Give love and receive love everyday. It's so easy, now!

Ensure that you make it unconditional love. If you have any attachments, expectations, guilt, or worry, you negate the whole purpose of the gift, the sharing of love.

This may not be easy for you at first because it takes conscious effort. However, like most worthwhile skills in life, it gets much easier with practice and eventually becomes habit.

This is a really fun challenge, because if you consciously give love, you'll find that you have more love to give. It grows exponentially inside of you. The other cool thing is that the more you give, the more you receive - really they are both the same.

How much fun, joy, and happiness could you miss if you don't start on this RIGHT NOW? Make a wise choice so you never participate in the Post-Christmas Blues again.

Copyright© 2008

Dan Ohler is Thinkin' Outside The Barn! Dan writes and speaks internationally on relationships, communication, happiness, and change. He helps you learn the secrets to create life-long flourishing relationships and abounding success. For FREE how-you-can-do-it-too articles, visit Thinkin' Outside The Barn To order your copy of "Thinkin' Outside The Barn And Steppin' Into Fresh B.S." visit Thinkin' Outside The Barn Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Ohler

Single on Valentine's Day - Banish the Blues This Way

Love is in the air. Romance abounds. Love is everywhere. Love, Love yuck! Enough already! What if you are single? Suppose you are not one of those wrapped up in your dream relationship? Should you just stay home and drink or drown your sorrows in a box of decadent chocolate? Don't you dare hang your head! Oh no! Lift up your head and let's get started banishing those Valentine's Day Blues!

First of all, love is for everyone. It is not some treasure that is exclusive for couples to enjoy. You may be tired of seeing red hearts and commercials of lovers embracing. If you are a single woman, you may just have a belly full of seeing devastatingly handsome men buying beautiful ladies diamonds that would cost a mint to purchase.

For you men, are you tired of seeing some average guy stepping out with a pretty woman for a night to celebrate their romance and you are scratching your head wondering how did he ever get her to look at him? Some many singles face the media and everyone else bombarding them with the message, that cupid visits many but forgot your address. No, cupid did not forget you.

Are you thinking cupid is asleep or that he is never going to point his bow in your direction? Well, lets set the record straight for cupid and everyone else. The fact is, Valentines Day can be really hard on singles, but it doesn't have to be. There are some singles who desire to be in a great relationship and it just hasn't happened. At least not yet. Instead of falling into a negative mood over Valentine's Day, here is what you can do instead:

• Learn to celebrate YOU. Come to know and appreciate your own value as a person. Your martial status does not dictate your value or your status. If you don't respect, love and embrace who you are, no one else will.
  
• Don't allow the media, your family or your friends to ever put you in box and label you in any way. You are already complete and a whole person, learn to be happy with you.
  
• Stop watching the commercials, the radio spots and the newspaper ads that drive home the point of view that love = couples. It is simply not true. The whole world does not evolve around couples. Just turn it off if you cannot tune it out. The commercials are designed to make money for the advertisers. You cannot let media dictate to you.
  
• Get busy doing things you enjoy with people you enjoy being with. Learn to live your life to the fullest everyday. Get out and mingle with others.
  
• Try to do something different. If you are like most of us, you have a list of things a mile long you would like to do. Get started on that list. If not now, when?
  
• Share love on Valentine's Day with those you love. You don't have to be part of a twosome to spread the love.
  
  

Being single has many advantages. Yes, you heard me right. There are many freedoms and things you can do because you do not have to share your decisions with another person. You are free to choose how you spend your money, your time and you get to choose the direction you want your life to go in. Learn to be content where you are, work on improving yourself now (it is much easier to do that work now instead of in a relationship), and give cupid a chance to get his job done. So lift your head and cheer up. Don't you know, the single life can really ROCK!! Get busy banishing those Valentine's Day Blues.

For more tips and tools we would like to offer you free access to our Relationship Start Up Guide: 50 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Relationship. Visit us at http://www.RelationshipAdviceHeadquarters.com

From Bj Moorer and http://www.RelationshipAdviceHeadquarters.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bj_Moorer

If Once You Have Slept On An Island

"If once you have slept on an island, you'll never be quite the same again" is a quote from a favorite poem of mine by Rachel Field. It is thought that she wrote this in the 1920's about an island off the coast of Maine, but every time I read it I think of Sanibel Island. Sanibel is by far one of my favorite places to sleep and shell and eat and rest and walk and bicycle and shop and read and relax!! It is my favorite place hands down.

I first visited the island in February of 1959 with my parents and my five year old brother. We had never been to Sanibel and decided it would be a little adventure. We took the ferry across and after boarding, discovered it was the last one of the day, so we were staying. Luckily, we found a small motel on the beach, and I wish I could remember the name of it, it was two story, sitting in a "V", facing the beach. There really weren't many places there at that time. In the morning we went out to look for shells and it was the most incredible sight I have ever seen. There were huge shells everywhere! We had never seen so many shells. Sanibel immediately became my dream, and I was never quite the same again!

I was not able to return until about 1992, so it was a little bit of a shock to discover the causeway, all the Sanibel Island Condos, and see all the change that had come about, but the thrill was still there. We discovered Ocean's Reach Condominiums, a wonderfully serene place to park our flip-flops. In fact, the feeling at Ocean's reach is quite reminiscent of days gone by. It is rather secluded compared to a few of the larger properties and it has only sixty-four units in all. There are four buildings with four stories each and all of the units are unique and brand new, courtesy of Hurricane Charlie. Ocean's Reach offers a beautiful view of the ocean from each of their screened porches and it is only 19 steps to the beach. Nineteen steps to paradise! In fact, it is only a step in any direction on Sanibel to a part of paradise. Every where you look the bountiful vegetation is lush with flowers of all colors, and the beaches are teeming with shore birds looking for their meals. I remember one morning, leaving Ocean's Reach for my morning beach walk, there was a line of trees just to the right of Ocean's Reach in front of Casa Ybel, that were so full of pelicans that they looked sure to topple. Of course, as usual I had forgotten my camera and only have the picture in my mind, but I was never quite the same again.

Sanibel Island today, unlike the Sanibel I first met, is abounding with rentals to suite any need. It is not necessarily an inexpensive place to vacation, but then again, it is not like any other place I have been. I have never been anywhere before where I was able to stroll along the beach and have a dolphin swim beside me. I swear it was so close I could touch it and it seemed to know that it was "walking" with me, and once again, no camera. Sometimes, I feel like my Sanibel stories are rather like "the one that got away", but to me, they are what keep my dreams of Sanibel alive until the next time. Try staying just one night on Sanibel and know that you'll never be quite the same again.

If you would like to visit Sanibel Island, more information is available about Sanibel Island Condos and Sanibel Island Accomodations

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilee_McCormack

Past or Future

Watching a rerun of "What Not to Wear" on The Learning Channel, I was struck by the dialogue between the individual being transformed and the cast of experts. While agreeing to follow the advice and input from these style-masters, "Joyce" was closed to the ideas presented of what she should wear, how her hair should be cut, and her make-up enhanced.

Her resistance sounded familiar. It echoed reasons proclaimed by people at work who cling to their comfort zones, eager to maintain the status quo, not rock the boat, or stick with the same skills. These people are past-focused, parroting phrases like, "But, I've never done it that way;" "I tried it once and it didn't work;" or "It's more work."

While Joyce's opposition to the ideas and suggestions from the expert style team contained similar expressions, what I found most interesting was the nature of this event. This change was not forced on her, nor did it blind-side her or threaten her livelihood. This modernization of Joyce was a change she sought, said she wanted, and heralded as a chance to make herself even better.

Yet, as ideas surfaced which required significant adjustments to her present style, she argued with the experts, even professing she knew more than they did about fashion and style. With great reluctance, Joyce tried on suggested outfits only to dismiss most as not practical for her, or not to her liking. She refused to cut her hair or make changes to her outdated make-up. The resulting look kept her hugging the past.

I've known too many workplace Joyces. People who embrace the idea of a better way, a new skill, or a changed approach, but when the reality appears they firmly resist. People who seek out experts to help them enhance their workplace culture or develop their skills, only to resist the ideas presented as impractical. Or people who encourage others to embrace new updates or technology only to remain tied to their inefficient, out-dated systems and tools.

These are not people who are winning at working. Instead, their actions mirror economist's John Kenneth Galbraith's words, "Faced with the choice between changing one's mind and proving that there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof."

But people who are winning at working don't try to prove there's a reason to stay in the past. Accurate assessment of where they are helps them decide a direction. They don't argue and debate and ignore the experts they engage. Thoughtful analysis helps them process that input. And they don't let the difficulty of change stop them from embracing it. Focusing on the future keeps them moving forward.

People who are winning at working are open to the possibility and necessity of change. And while that change isn't necessarily any easier for them, they see it differently. They see change as progress, transformation, and evolution. To people who are winning at working, embracing new ideas, changing their point of view, and being open to different ways to do things, are part of their success repertoire.

(c) 2008 Nan S. Russell. All rights reserved.

Sign up to receive Nan's complimentary biweekly eColumn at http://www.winningatworking.com Nan Russell has spent over twenty years in management, most recently with QVC as a Vice President. She has held leadership positions in Human Resource Development, Communication, Marketing and line Management. Nan has a B.A. from Stanford and M.A. from the University of Michigan. Author of, Hitting Your Stride: Your Work, Your Way (Capital Books; January 2008). Host of Work Matters with Nan Russell on webtalkradio.net. Visit http://www.nanrussell.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nan_S._Russell

The Home Energy Audit - The First Step For An Energy Efficient Home

As a homeowner you obviously want to prevent skyrocketing utility bills. Good news; you can invest in ways to improve your home's energy efficiency. But, before you go about making drastic changes to your home, you might consider an Energy Audit. Such an audit will provide an assessment of how much energy your homes uses and evaluate how you can make your home most efficient. From here, you can begin a plan of attack for making your home more energy wise.

A professional energy audit involves hiring a pro, who will complete an audit that could set you back $300-$700. But, fear not. The investment that you make in the short-term, could mean slashing your heating bill by 40%! Likewise you won't need another audit for another 15-20 years.

Most likely the auditor will perform various tests that include: a thermographic scan which detects air leaks and moisture problems, a combustion safety test for your heating system, a blower door test to determine how airtight your home is, and also an insulation, appliance and lighting survey. Professional energy audits go into great detail. The energy auditor should do a thorough examination of past utility bills and a room-by-room examination of the residence.

In terms of finding an auditor for the job, you can check with your utility company. Some companies may even provide free audits. Your state energy office might also be able to help you find a local company that performs audits. Another place to look for a list of home energy raters in your area is to check out the web site, energystar.gov

There is also the option of a do-it-yourself energy audit. Start with is a list of places in your home where you feel a draft. Simply taking measures to cut these drafts, whether by door replacement or alternative methods, can save up to 30% a year.

Next, assess your home for indoor air leaks. These will typically be found at junctures of the walls and ceilings, near electrical outlets, near the edge of your flooring, by baseboards and around window and door frames. Simple caulking or weather stripping can help deal these leaks.

Inspect areas, on the outside of your house where different building materials meet. Look for cracks in the foundation or the siding. Caulk any holes in faucets, pipes or around electric outlets.

Lastly, check your furnace and replace the filter as needed.

If not just to reduce your utility costs, tax credits are another reason to make your home energy efficient. If you add insulation or replace windows you could be eligible for tax credits up to $500.

Whether you go with a professional energy audit, or a do-it-yourself project, the information you gather on your home's energy efficiency will be invaluable.

Louise Scoggins is a REALTOR with expertise in Atlanta Georgia real estate. For more information on Cobb County real estate or other Atlanta properties, contact Louise with Explore Atlanta Homes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_Scoggins

Obsession With Food - And Other Reasons Why Diets Don't Work

Counting calories, ordering special diet meals, measuring out portions - these are indications that we are remain mesmerized and captivated by food. It has taken over our entire lives with no escape; food is an addiction no different from heroin, and maybe more dangerous because we think that food is cute. Actually, when we think of all the dead little bodies of plants and animals, that slide by our teeth, it is disgusting. We must somehow end our love affair with food.

When we lust for food, we lust for other things as well, like sex, money, comfort, etc. Greed is involved, too, and the things that we lust for are only the tip off the iceberg regarding our fundamental addiction. The fundamental addiction that is particularly alive and well inside anyone who finds dieting impossible is the foundation of all of our other addictions. If we can solve this fundamental one, the others go away along with it including our addiction to food. If we could only solve our primary addiction, we would never have to diet again, and all facets of our lives would improve dramatically.

But what is this fundamental addiction? It would have to be something quite common, not rare, and something that we all are addicted to. And it would have to be very pervasive. Few, however, can understand what it is. Even when it is explained, seldom is it understood, but this addiction is real... and it is menacing.

All addictions mess up our lives, as indicated by the fly-off-the-handle mentality so prevalent in the world. A big problem exists right before our eyes, yet we can't see it. A knife cannot cut itself, and likewise, we cannot see ourselves, and subsequently we cannot see our basic addiction.

Using drugs, alcohol, and yes... food as an escape only bewilders us and prevents any chance of understanding the real addiction. Habits are difficult to break, like old friends that we simply cannot say good-bye to, but we must move beyond them, which means solving the fundamental addiction. Then all of our addictions will be resolved. We must at least discover what this basic addiction and dependency is, even though it seems as if we can't do anything about it.

The key to this fundamental addiction is nothing other than ourselves. The admiration of, and fixation with, ourselves never changes. Even though we might be aware of this obsession we have with ourselves, we still can't see it. It permeates our being like a terrible stench, causing undue conflict and discontent because of the heavy responsibility we subtly feel toward the welfare of this imaginary us, but if we don't find a way to overcome this addiction of our "self," we will remain imprisoned in our dependencies forever.

For example, we might see our impulsive eating at some point, as we have never seen it before, and realize that our eating results from a greed for pleasure. We simply cannot go a minute without stimulating one of our sense organs - our ears with music, our tongues and noses with food, our eyes with sights of pleasure, our bodies with feelings of ecstasy, and our minds with thoughts of gratification. It's disgusting!

We have to see what we are doing here, but seeing requires wisdom, and the best path to wisdom is a calm mind, away from the manic activities of the grasping senses. A mind that can remain unmoved in the flurry of impulses and desires that make the body move and react like a robot. Wisdom is a calmness that suspends our ignorance of things, things such as our unbridled greed and our impulsive behavior regarding eating. In addition, a calm mind establishes courageousness, a fearlessness that we never had before. Courageousness is key if we are ever to see beyond our addictions to our "selves," and the only way to get beyond "ourselves," which is the fundamental addiction, is to understand that we don't exist in the way that we have always believed we existed. This takes an inordinate amount of courage.

A calm mind is aware of every movement of mind; an awareness of everything as it arises and passes. Impulses, emotions, thoughts, and sensations resulting from contact with the six senses - these will be noticed, but released immediately upon contact. The mind will not be permitted to continue with further identification, investigation, or with further attachment or aversion. It will not think about or ponder the contact in any way. It will become fearless in these kinds of observations.

There is no investigation of the impulse, emotion, thought, or sensation, and as quickly as it arises, it is released. Silent, still moments between impulses, emotions, thoughts, or sensations develop when these cease, and within these silent intervals will be periods of insight that extend longer and longer. This is thinking without thoughts, an undirected watching, a passive, choiceless observation. The body and mind that was taken into custody by the "I" thought (our "selves") now disappear; along with the "I" thought itself. Now there is only the full emptiness of the moment.

And now we have identified our root addiction; the illusion of self.

At some point, your "self," which comes across as a witness or watcher, will disappear, with only consciousness remaining. No longer will there be a participant, there will only be observation. You can never know yourself, just as an eye cannot see itself, but there will be conscious awareness.

Once you attain this elevated status, your consciousness might then move on and become even more refined. This happens when it has almost, but not quite, conquered lustful sensual desire, and anger/aversion. This refinement is developed further when your consciousness has completely exhausted sensual desire and anger/aversion, both of which are extremely difficult to overcome. At this point, all addiction is ended, not only in this life, but in the afterlife as well. Meditation is the key to begin discovering for yourself your fundamental addiction. Diets don't work!

E. Raymond Rock of Fort Myers, Florida is cofounder and principal teacher at the Southwest Florida Insight Center, http://www.SouthwestFloridaInsightCenter.com - His twenty-eight years of meditation experience has taken him across four continents, including two stopovers in Thailand where he practiced in the remote northeast forests as an ordained Theravada Buddhist monk. His book, A Year to Enlightenment (Career Press/New Page Books) is now available at major bookstores and online retailers. Visit http://www.AYearToEnlightenment.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=E._Raymond_Rock

Carpet Cleaning in Ohio

Vacuuming is extremely important in prolonging the life of your carpet. Your carpet cleaning OH, professionals will agree with that statement. Before they can bring in their equipment, the carpet must be thoroughly vacuumed of the surface dirt. Just like when you wash the kitchen floor, your first step is to sweep up the loose dirt. That is what vacuuming does; it removes the loose dirt on the top layer of the carpet.

Even though just about every home in North America has some form of carpeting, many people do not know how to properly care for their carpets. A carpet that is not clean is a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Thus, it is a severe health hazard. If people knew what was in their carpets they would not allow their children to play on it at all. How many people still have a shag carpet from the seventies somewhere in the house, just imagine what is in there. Vacuuming is just the beginning; carpet cleaning OH, professionals indicate that more must be done to ensure your home is clean.

Before you can clean your carpet after vacuuming, you must determine what the carpet is made of. Once you have that information, you can then decide what product to use to clean it. You need something that will kill the germs and bacteria and restore the beauty of the carpet. For carpets that are not wool, hot water extraction is the best choice. The head of the steam vacuum has two parts, one to force out the steam and the other to suck it and the dirt back up again. To dry the carpets, open up the windows if the weather allows for it and setup some fans to help with the drying. Carpets cleaning in Ohio cleaning companies use this method as well. The less amount of time the carpet is wet the better for it.

Carpet cleaning OH, professionals recommend that if you happen to have carpets that are made from wool then you the dry extraction method would be the best choice. This particular method of cleaning uses chemicals without the use of water for cleaning. The chemical is applied in either foam or a powder form. Once the chemical has dried or has set, a very strong sucking vacuum removes the residue along the dirt and grime. Another benefit of this method is that the carpet is never wet so you do not have to wait for it to dry to walk on it. On the down side, the use of chemicals is not always a good idea because of environmental issues. Many people these days are turning to the chemical free methods of cleaning everything in their homes.

We provide tips and information on carpet cleaning in Boston and carpet cleaning Ohio along with other carpet cleaning related information - by D. Karlson

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Karlson

Instantly Double Your Traffic

If you're promoting anything online then you already know that traffic is importante`. A good way to increase your traffic without having to spend a bunch of money is to go for a double listing. Now, getting a double listing isn't the easiest thing in the world to do, but it's definitely possible.

The basics behind a double listing are to have two similar web pages with a similar key phrase, with a common keyword in each phrase. Example: chair sets - kitchen chair sets.

Now, this doesn't have to be just web pages either. You can create similar blog posts, or similar articles, as long as they have that common keyword that ranks on the same page.

So how do you get the most out of this? I would say if you want to get ranked quickly, go for easier mid to long tail keywords. Stick with product names or any keyword with a "quoted" search of under 4,000 and a regular search of under 5,000,000. This will give you the quickest results.

You can increase your chances even more by using websites that Google likes. Websites such as Squidoo, ezinearticles.com, Hub pages, and even Youtube (yeah, branch out and make some videos!). The only thing you should watch out for is to not make your pages seem too similar or it won't seem natural. You need the same relative topic with different content, just keep that in mind and you'll be fine.

By having a double listing, you're not only pushing competition off the page, you're also increasing your traffic as well. All you have to do, is work harder then the next person and you'll be the one making more money.

Get more details on the latest Internet Marketing strategies at: http://ItsOnlineWarfare.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Houser

Can I Be Mad at God About My Illness? 3 Ways to Know

"When I was first diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I actually felt relief," shares Cindy. "I had been trying to find a reason for my pain and it finally was acknowledged as being something physical not mental." Cindy goes on to explain, "It wasn't until months later that I started getting short-tempered and frustrated and I realized that I was angry about the diagnosis. I was angry that I had to suffer and no one understood."

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, a doctor in Switzerland, wrote a life-changing book called, "On Death and Dying" which describes the cycle of emotional stages that is often referred to as the grief cycle. Anger is the third stage, following the shock stage and the denial stage.

When we are diagnosed with an illness, feeling anger is the most natural reaction. Realizing our dreams may be out of our control now that our body is redefining what is "normal" for us, can be devastating.

Recognizing these feelings and dealing with them is part of the mourning process. We all need to go through this process, and it comes at different times for each individual and at different levels at each stage of the illness. Ironically, the first year of diagnosis may even be easier than the third year.

Says Krista, who lives with chronic fatigue syndrome, "I know that my anger stages come and go. I have been angry at doctors, at God, myself, my church, even my husband and daughter and other family members."

One thing is definite: anger will come. For some people it will be a mild irritation with everything in life, and for others a flaring temper that doesn't seem subside.

"It is my observation," says Linda Noble Topf, author of "You are Not Your Illness", "that the absence of anger in the face of a serious illness suggests that we have already withdrawn from life, that we have relinquished our passion for living, that we are resigned and emotionally numb."

When you are Christian it can feel shameful to even express that you have angry feelings. Too often Christians believe that their angry emotions are sinful and something that those with a great deal of faith never experience. They even believe that those feelings they do have are not even quote "allowed." Have you ever experience some of these feelings?

- If my faith in God is solid, I should trust that He wants what is best for me. Doubting His hand in my circumstances to shows my lack of faith.

- If I tell other Christians about my angry feelings, and how frustrated I am with this disease, won't they think I am weak in my walk with Christ?

- I know it says, "wise men shouldn't anger" in the Bible. How can I, in good faith, express the emotions that I am feeling?

- I know that anger leads to bitterness. So if I don't acknowledge these feelings I will be a "better Christian" and I won't ever become bitter about life.

All of these thoughts are normal, but that doesn't mean they're correct. By burying our anger and not acknowledging it, we prevent ourselves from moving on to the next phase in the grief cycle, learning how to effectively manage our emotions and our chronic illness.

Here are a few tips to help guide you through the process of dealing with your anger:

1. Are you feeling angry? Acknowledge this emotion and then move on with life.

It is easy to believe if we bury our anger we will become a stronger person. Topf recommends, "Think of anger as a resource that you can learn to harness and refine for your own benefit." By claiming your feelings you can reclaim your personal identity and your true emotions about the situation.

The Bible tells us that Job got extremely angry, even cursing the day he was born. After much loss of loved ones, possessions, and finally his health, he had a justifiable reason to be mad at God. He said, "Do I have any power to help myself, now that success has been driven from me?" (Job 6:13). Later in Job's life, however, God restored his life and blessed him exponentially and then he said, "Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful to know" (Job 42:3b). Job had to go through the anger stage in order to come out on the other side with more character and wisdom. And only through this was he able to experience the blessings God gave him to their full extent.

2. Feeling angry is okay.

God gave us the ability to feel anger. There are many examples in the Bible where even He feels anger. What does the Bible tell us about anger? Once you begin to get in touch with these feelings of anger, it may trigger every unfairness and injustice that you are experiencing. We are susceptible to becoming wrapped up in these feelings and remaining angry at the world. These are the feelings of anger that God warns us about; as He knows that they can become too prominent in our life and take our focus off of Him.

- "For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires" (James 1:20).

- "Wise men turn away anger" (Proverbs

- "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11).

It is no secret that the God designed us with anger as part of our natural human response to negative circumstances. Some people may remind us that it takes anger to make positive changes. For example, the acronym "MADD" explains rather well the emotions behind Mothers Against Drunk Drivers. Topf writes, "We discover that anger is first and foremost demand for change." It's true, amazing changes have occurred in history because of anger, such as the civil rights laws. Having an "I'm-not-going-to-take-it-any-more-attitude" can create positive changes. It is when anger takes over a life that we are in danger.

In Amos 1:11, God says, "I will not turn back my wrath... because his anger raged continually." God isn't upset because of the presence of anger, but because the anger was continuous. God calls us to put our focus on Him and try to make a difference that will bring glory to Him.

3. Walk with God beside you and He will walk with you through your anger.

David experienced this and wrote, "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me." (Psalm 138:7). God is there when you need to feel angry and he wants to stretch out His hand against your anger and protect you.

"I'm still dealing with anger toward this illness, after eight years of being sick," shares a woman who lives with fibromyalgia, Peggy says, "Each time I experience a new limitation, I get angry all over again. But as I learn to cope with living with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, and the limitations it places on my activities, I expect God's perfect grace. I pray that He will become slow to anger, as I am depending on the scripture, 'The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love'" (Psalm 103:8).

Anger is an emotion we will all encounter for the rest of our lives. Perhaps the simplest of advice is a scripture that I quote in my book, Why Can't I Make People Understand? Discovering the Validation Those with Chronic Illness Seek and Why" where I go through the mixed bag of emotions, especially anger and bitterness. It is Hosea 7:13b-14 in which God says, "I long to redeem [you] but. . . [you] do not cry out to Me from [your] hearts, but wait upon [your] beds." Instead of curling up in bed wailing "Why me?" pour our your heart to the Lord and simply ask Him for help

"Why Can't I Make People Understand?" is author, Lisa's latest book that will get you through your anger at www.WhyCantIMakePeopleUnderstand.com . Free download of 200 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend from when you sign up for HopeNotes at Rest Ministries. Lisa is the founder of Invisible Illness Week. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Copen