Current mood: fabulous
1 more week til hubby starts his new job! ♥ 100% medical + more pay! Also down 24lbs and 10inches in 7 weeks! ♥ Got the living room, bathroom and bedroom cleaned up, The kitchen half way! BBQ next weekend with hubby & another couple from the store he guards gonna be fun, new friends even more fun and they don't drink or smoke, sweet!! ♥ Now time to finish the prep for tomorrows BBQ @ mom's, im doin all the cooking ^_^ Busy busy busy but slow down time very soon and hubby and I are gonna cuddle up to a movie and relax! Everything on the house is coming together too, should have it on the market by next spring at the latest, might try for a house close to Mandy and Forrest or Mom dunno yet have to see where we can find a cheep house but either way we will be close to great awesome friends and family!!
okay need to take a chill pill im just so happy and excited, with hubbys new job all medical bills will be covered 100% one guy that works there told hubby when his wife had there daughter bill came back 0 and they cover all the kids you have too, told hubby maybe we will have more then 4 kids! heheh and hes fine with it!
Big family here we come!
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Okay - Updates of Life!
Current mood: loved.
Things have been changin here for the better and steppin up the in world so to speak in more ways then one which is a good thing!
Hubby and I been doing uber awesome, hes been smoke free coming up on a year soon and doing amazing! He knows when to say NO when ppl offer him smokes but no one has in so long because everyone knows hes done with them!
Hubbys job been doing great! But thing is.... hes got a million times better one that he starts in MAY! 100% medical and pays ALOT more, we be steppin up! He even has a chance of getting 4 days a week 10 hr days, his dad goes GOOD now you can help us with the home reno's and cleaning the other 3 days! Hubby agrees!! *SHOCK!* He's tired of getting things he wants and has no where to put it so very soon its going to be HOUSE HOUSE HOUSE RENOS! all the freaken time! We are getting close to being done with it though.
Bathroom - Done
Deck - Done
Landscaping - pretty much done
Piping - Done
Electric work - almost done
Living room - pretty much done cept one wall needs to be painted
Kitchen - next project
Basement - Project after kitchen
Bedrooms are pretty much done just need to fix the ceilings and put in new fixtures and take up the carpet in our room which wont take long
Then it will be time to SELL SELL SELL!
and get a bigger house :)
prolly by fall, we been looking at houses closer to many and forrest which would be awesome!
In other news with me....
uh ya so... this excerse thing after 8 months sure I lost 8 sizes but NO WEIGHT!
your thinking WTF right?
same thoughts I had...
My period (gfx here) 2-3 weeks long sometimes longer
odd huh?
Turns out my insulin levels where high but not high enough to be diabetic THX GOD!
Doc said I can reverse it with meds and diet and excersise...
Which i been doing for a month now
and you know what?
18lbs gone !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOO!
Turns out my insulin was pouring gallions into my system instead of little bits like its suppose too to break down everything i eat.... mine was storing and not letting me lose
It was also prolly causing cysts on my ovary's and not giving my body the idea... had a period now its time to stop!
But these meds should be temp and things been going good, also back on birth control so i don't get prego in the meantime cause if i did... one miscarry after another
But once everything gets under control...
There is a high chance i can go off the meds and go about normal but stick to my 20 carb a day diet......
unlimited meat eggs and cheese
NO POTATOES, RICE, PASTA or BREAD!
No milk - heavy cream instead
unlimited veggies but watching the carbs of them
coffee, tea, 0 carb crystal light, water
2 diet pops a day
thats it!
But hubby and I been spending the evenings curled up with netflix, game days on saturday with the guys, Friday on his only day off errands then us time
Til he starts his new job this been our life has been blessed and soon to be more blessed, only thing missing is kids really but one bump after another and im sure other things will come up but we been though so much as it is and we will continue to be by one anothers side, hes happy im happy and thats all that matters is just staying happy. Just continue taking one day at a time with one another by each other and enjoy it. Life is as good as you make it really we know our kids will come in time when we get over these bumps and im sure more bumps will follow but what we have is each other to help each other get though them.
I love you babe your everything to me and I dunno what id do without you, I know you tell me the same everyday and we are one anothers hearts always and forever <3
Things have been changin here for the better and steppin up the in world so to speak in more ways then one which is a good thing!
Hubby and I been doing uber awesome, hes been smoke free coming up on a year soon and doing amazing! He knows when to say NO when ppl offer him smokes but no one has in so long because everyone knows hes done with them!
Hubbys job been doing great! But thing is.... hes got a million times better one that he starts in MAY! 100% medical and pays ALOT more, we be steppin up! He even has a chance of getting 4 days a week 10 hr days, his dad goes GOOD now you can help us with the home reno's and cleaning the other 3 days! Hubby agrees!! *SHOCK!* He's tired of getting things he wants and has no where to put it so very soon its going to be HOUSE HOUSE HOUSE RENOS! all the freaken time! We are getting close to being done with it though.
Bathroom - Done
Deck - Done
Landscaping - pretty much done
Piping - Done
Electric work - almost done
Living room - pretty much done cept one wall needs to be painted
Kitchen - next project
Basement - Project after kitchen
Bedrooms are pretty much done just need to fix the ceilings and put in new fixtures and take up the carpet in our room which wont take long
Then it will be time to SELL SELL SELL!
and get a bigger house :)
prolly by fall, we been looking at houses closer to many and forrest which would be awesome!
In other news with me....
uh ya so... this excerse thing after 8 months sure I lost 8 sizes but NO WEIGHT!
your thinking WTF right?
same thoughts I had...
My period (gfx here) 2-3 weeks long sometimes longer
odd huh?
Turns out my insulin levels where high but not high enough to be diabetic THX GOD!
Doc said I can reverse it with meds and diet and excersise...
Which i been doing for a month now
and you know what?
18lbs gone !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOO!
Turns out my insulin was pouring gallions into my system instead of little bits like its suppose too to break down everything i eat.... mine was storing and not letting me lose
It was also prolly causing cysts on my ovary's and not giving my body the idea... had a period now its time to stop!
But these meds should be temp and things been going good, also back on birth control so i don't get prego in the meantime cause if i did... one miscarry after another
But once everything gets under control...
There is a high chance i can go off the meds and go about normal but stick to my 20 carb a day diet......
unlimited meat eggs and cheese
NO POTATOES, RICE, PASTA or BREAD!
No milk - heavy cream instead
unlimited veggies but watching the carbs of them
coffee, tea, 0 carb crystal light, water
2 diet pops a day
thats it!
But hubby and I been spending the evenings curled up with netflix, game days on saturday with the guys, Friday on his only day off errands then us time
Til he starts his new job this been our life has been blessed and soon to be more blessed, only thing missing is kids really but one bump after another and im sure other things will come up but we been though so much as it is and we will continue to be by one anothers side, hes happy im happy and thats all that matters is just staying happy. Just continue taking one day at a time with one another by each other and enjoy it. Life is as good as you make it really we know our kids will come in time when we get over these bumps and im sure more bumps will follow but what we have is each other to help each other get though them.
I love you babe your everything to me and I dunno what id do without you, I know you tell me the same everyday and we are one anothers hearts always and forever <3
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Updates & Wishing Grandpa a Happy 95th Birthday....
Yeah, I know grandpa isn't here anymore but I still wish him a happy birthday, it was yesterday the 7th, today is my hubbys birthday and I love you both very much.
Things been going well other wise.
I found out why I was having my period so much turns out my insulin levels where high but not high enough to be diabetic, my level was 90, normal is 6 and diabetic is 220+
So my body decided instead of giving off little bits to break down everything I eat it would pour gallions and store everything... reason why I didn't lose any weight.
I think being with my ex I was with for 5 years played a part too... lazy.
But hey at least I caught it while I could, now I am on some reducers and 20 carb a day diet with no potatoes, rice, pasta and bread. Allowed 2 diet pops a day and veggies to a point.
It was hard and still is now and again but its doable!
When they measured me 3 weeks ago before I started the meds 51 inches on my waist... i never used to be that big, quitting smoking and relying on junk food did it and becoming lazy when i was with my ex... ya damn it all to hell.
Measured myself yesterday 44 inches now, lost 7 inches!
Fuck ya!
I weighed 249lbs.. not sure on now cause my scales broken..
Ill know Tuesday!
Hope these meds are only temp like the doc says they could be cause man I am serious I wanna get back on track so hubby and I can start our family ...
Well thats about it for now, I am also excited though cause doc said I can have cheesecake on sunday..... Yummmmmm....
I'm Off !
xo
ps.... ISSUE 14 IS LIVE IN CITY OF HEROES!
peak at new costume package too! here is a new female outfit they got!
Things been going well other wise.
I found out why I was having my period so much turns out my insulin levels where high but not high enough to be diabetic, my level was 90, normal is 6 and diabetic is 220+
So my body decided instead of giving off little bits to break down everything I eat it would pour gallions and store everything... reason why I didn't lose any weight.
I think being with my ex I was with for 5 years played a part too... lazy.
But hey at least I caught it while I could, now I am on some reducers and 20 carb a day diet with no potatoes, rice, pasta and bread. Allowed 2 diet pops a day and veggies to a point.
It was hard and still is now and again but its doable!
When they measured me 3 weeks ago before I started the meds 51 inches on my waist... i never used to be that big, quitting smoking and relying on junk food did it and becoming lazy when i was with my ex... ya damn it all to hell.
Measured myself yesterday 44 inches now, lost 7 inches!
Fuck ya!
I weighed 249lbs.. not sure on now cause my scales broken..
Ill know Tuesday!
Hope these meds are only temp like the doc says they could be cause man I am serious I wanna get back on track so hubby and I can start our family ...
Well thats about it for now, I am also excited though cause doc said I can have cheesecake on sunday..... Yummmmmm....
I'm Off !
xo
ps.... ISSUE 14 IS LIVE IN CITY OF HEROES!
peak at new costume package too! here is a new female outfit they got!
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Not a Joke!
(CBS) Computer experts are extremely wary of April 1.
No -- not because it's April Fool's Day.
But because, as CNET-TV Senior Editor Natali Del Conte explained on The Early Show Tuesday, it's when the "Conficker" computer worm is expected to reach out for new instructions from its creators -- and no one knows the nature of those instructions.
Conficker is already one of the worst computer security threats in years -- though experts agree April 1 could come and go with nothing more serious than the then-dreaded "Y2K" bug turned out to be -- over-hyped, to say the least.
Still, better to be safe than sorry.
Mac Users already are: Conficker only runs on Windows computers, in stealth mode, spying on your online activity seeking to obtain your passwords and financial information.
You should be safe, Del Conte says, if you install the most recent updates for Microsoft and run regular anti-virus scans:
PATCH TOOLS AND UPDATES:
MICROSOFT PATCH:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/Bulletin/MS08-067.mspx
MICROSOFT AUTORUN UPDATE: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/967940.mspx
REMOVAL TOOLS:
MICROSOFT TOOL:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/962007
ADDITIONAL REMOVAL RESOURCES:
http://www.shadowserver.org/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.HomePage
VACCINE TOOL FOR USB:
PANDA TOOL:
http://www.pandasecurity.com/usa/homeusers/downloads/usbvaccine/
Also:
Read up on Conficker coverage from CBSNews.com partner CNET by clicking here.
And see the 60 Minutes story on it by clicking here.
There are three potential tipoffs that your PC may have Conficker inside, Del Conte points out:
It won't let you go to Microsot.com, because the Web site has a fix, so if you can't get there, beware -- it's a sign that something may be fishy.
Conficker also won't let you get to the Web sites of various computer security vendors, such as those of Symantec, McAfee, etc. because, again, there are fixes there. So if you can't to them, Del Conte advise, be suspicious.
Conficker may also prevent you from turning off your computer. If your machine won't power down, it may mean someone else is driving it, so disconnect the Internet cable and the power chord and call someone.
If your machine has had Conficker for awhile and hackers already have your financial information, log onto an uninfected computer and change all of your passwords immediately. Also, call the financial institutions you deal with and tell them you think someone may have stolen your passwords and that you'd like to be notified of any suspicious activity, and would like to change your account numbers.
No -- not because it's April Fool's Day.
But because, as CNET-TV Senior Editor Natali Del Conte explained on The Early Show Tuesday, it's when the "Conficker" computer worm is expected to reach out for new instructions from its creators -- and no one knows the nature of those instructions.
Conficker is already one of the worst computer security threats in years -- though experts agree April 1 could come and go with nothing more serious than the then-dreaded "Y2K" bug turned out to be -- over-hyped, to say the least.
Still, better to be safe than sorry.
Mac Users already are: Conficker only runs on Windows computers, in stealth mode, spying on your online activity seeking to obtain your passwords and financial information.
You should be safe, Del Conte says, if you install the most recent updates for Microsoft and run regular anti-virus scans:
PATCH TOOLS AND UPDATES:
MICROSOFT PATCH:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/Bulletin/MS08-067.mspx
MICROSOFT AUTORUN UPDATE: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/967940.mspx
REMOVAL TOOLS:
MICROSOFT TOOL:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/962007
ADDITIONAL REMOVAL RESOURCES:
http://www.shadowserver.org/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.HomePage
VACCINE TOOL FOR USB:
PANDA TOOL:
http://www.pandasecurity.com/usa/homeusers/downloads/usbvaccine/
Also:
Read up on Conficker coverage from CBSNews.com partner CNET by clicking here.
And see the 60 Minutes story on it by clicking here.
There are three potential tipoffs that your PC may have Conficker inside, Del Conte points out:
It won't let you go to Microsot.com, because the Web site has a fix, so if you can't get there, beware -- it's a sign that something may be fishy.
Conficker also won't let you get to the Web sites of various computer security vendors, such as those of Symantec, McAfee, etc. because, again, there are fixes there. So if you can't to them, Del Conte advise, be suspicious.
Conficker may also prevent you from turning off your computer. If your machine won't power down, it may mean someone else is driving it, so disconnect the Internet cable and the power chord and call someone.
If your machine has had Conficker for awhile and hackers already have your financial information, log onto an uninfected computer and change all of your passwords immediately. Also, call the financial institutions you deal with and tell them you think someone may have stolen your passwords and that you'd like to be notified of any suspicious activity, and would like to change your account numbers.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
'Spider-Man' rescues autistic Thai boy !
BANGKOK (AFP) - A Thai fireman turned superhero when he dressed up as comic-book character Spider-Man to coax a frightened eight-year-old from a balcony, police said Tuesday.
Teachers at a special needs school in Bangkok alerted authorities on Monday when an autistic pupil, scared of going to lessons, sat out on the third-floor ledge and refused to come inside, a police sergeant told AFP.
"My fireman rushed back to the fire station and took out his Spider-Man costume... The boy immediately ran into his arms with a smile," sergeant Virat Boonsadao said.
He said the fireman keeps the costume at work to liven up school fire drills.
Despite teachers' efforts to beckon the boy inside, he refused to budge until his mother mentioned her son's love of superheroes, prompting fireman Sonchai Yoosabai to take a novel approach to the problem.
"My fireman rushed back to the fire station and took out his Spider-Man costume... The boy immediately ran into his arms with a smile," sergeant Virat Boonsadao said.
He said the fireman keeps the costume at work to liven up school fire drills.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Monday, March 16, 2009
Ten ways to have more money!
Simplify your life by cutting out those needless extra expenses. Here are 10 ways to cut back on the money you don't need to spend.
Number Ten:
Pay in cash -- this means you will always know exactly how much money you have. With credit cards, debt can add up quickly and you may not pay them off as fast as you would like to. When you pay in cash, it's also a great feeling because you know it's done and paid for and you won't have any bills piling up.
Number Nine:
Don't get someone else to do it for you -- stop paying extra to get things done for you when you can do them yourself. Instead of automatically taking your shirts to the dry cleaners, wash them by hand and hang them to dry.
Number Eight:
Eat out less -- Visit your local supermarket and pick up fresh ingredients to make homemade meals. You can also take your leftovers to work or have them the next day for dinner.
Number Seven:
Shop with a purpose -- Whether you're grocery shopping or attending to other errands, it's best to shop with a list. A list reminds you of your reason for shopping and to resist impulse items. It is also a good idea to plan your meals in advance, so that when you get to the store you know exactly what you need to make meals throughout the week. Try to avoid shopping when you're hungry.
Number Six:
Get some fresh air -- Walking is good for you, and it's cheaper than driving. If it's possible for you to hike or bike to your destination, do it.
Number Five:
Keep your car longer -- do you really need that brand new car? Maybe your old one will operate just fine for a few more years. If you maintain the car you have now, you may be able to put off buying a new one for quite awhile.
Number Four:
Give up your car altogether -- if you live in a city with well-equipped public transportation, chances are you might not even need a car. When you add up the expenses of car ownership including insurance, maintenance and parking, the costs may outweigh the benefits. Make a detailed list of what you actually need your car for. Try renting a car if you need it for a weekend away, or for the monthly trip to Costco you could take advantage of a car-sharing service such asAutoShare orZipcar .
Number Three:
Find cheaper ways to entertain yourself -- instead of going to the movie theatre, rent a movie, relax and make some popcorn. Movies in the comfort of your own home can be a great way to spend an evening. You can go even further and rent movies from your local library. All you need is a library card and you will have plenty of movies, books and CD's at your disposal.
Number Two:
Limit the luxuries -- do you really need over 500 channels? Most of the time when you order satellite or digital cable, you are paying for a lot of channels that you don't actually watch. You also pay more depending on the speed of internet you have. If you only use the computer to send emails and read online, you probably don't need the fastest service available.
Number One:
Skip the little things -- make your own coffee in the morning. Instead of spending $5 a day on gourmet coffee, take it with you from home. Make it a special treat to buy a coffee once a week from your favourite coffee shop
Number Ten:
Pay in cash -- this means you will always know exactly how much money you have. With credit cards, debt can add up quickly and you may not pay them off as fast as you would like to. When you pay in cash, it's also a great feeling because you know it's done and paid for and you won't have any bills piling up.
Number Nine:
Don't get someone else to do it for you -- stop paying extra to get things done for you when you can do them yourself. Instead of automatically taking your shirts to the dry cleaners, wash them by hand and hang them to dry.
Number Eight:
Eat out less -- Visit your local supermarket and pick up fresh ingredients to make homemade meals. You can also take your leftovers to work or have them the next day for dinner.
Number Seven:
Shop with a purpose -- Whether you're grocery shopping or attending to other errands, it's best to shop with a list. A list reminds you of your reason for shopping and to resist impulse items. It is also a good idea to plan your meals in advance, so that when you get to the store you know exactly what you need to make meals throughout the week. Try to avoid shopping when you're hungry.
Number Six:
Get some fresh air -- Walking is good for you, and it's cheaper than driving. If it's possible for you to hike or bike to your destination, do it.
Number Five:
Keep your car longer -- do you really need that brand new car? Maybe your old one will operate just fine for a few more years. If you maintain the car you have now, you may be able to put off buying a new one for quite awhile.
Number Four:
Give up your car altogether -- if you live in a city with well-equipped public transportation, chances are you might not even need a car. When you add up the expenses of car ownership including insurance, maintenance and parking, the costs may outweigh the benefits. Make a detailed list of what you actually need your car for. Try renting a car if you need it for a weekend away, or for the monthly trip to Costco you could take advantage of a car-sharing service such asAutoShare orZipcar .
Number Three:
Find cheaper ways to entertain yourself -- instead of going to the movie theatre, rent a movie, relax and make some popcorn. Movies in the comfort of your own home can be a great way to spend an evening. You can go even further and rent movies from your local library. All you need is a library card and you will have plenty of movies, books and CD's at your disposal.
Number Two:
Limit the luxuries -- do you really need over 500 channels? Most of the time when you order satellite or digital cable, you are paying for a lot of channels that you don't actually watch. You also pay more depending on the speed of internet you have. If you only use the computer to send emails and read online, you probably don't need the fastest service available.
Number One:
Skip the little things -- make your own coffee in the morning. Instead of spending $5 a day on gourmet coffee, take it with you from home. Make it a special treat to buy a coffee once a week from your favourite coffee shop
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Here are some reasons to be proud to be Canadian:
1. Smarties
2. Crispy Crunch, Coffee Crisp
3. The size of our footballs fields and one less down
4. Baseball is Canadian
5. Lacrosse is Canadian
6. Hockey is Canadian
7. Basketball is Canadian
8. Apple pie is Canadian
9. Mr. Dress-up kicks Mr. Rogers ass
10. Tim Hortons kicks Dunkin' Donuts ass
11. In the war of 1812, started by America, Canadians pushed the Americans back...past their 'White House'. Then we burned it...and most of Washington, under the command of William Lyon McKenzie who was insane and hammered all the time. We got bored because they ran away, so we came home and partied...Go figure..
12. Canada has the largest French population that never surrendered to Germany.
13. We have the largest English population that never ever surrendered or withdrew during any war to anyone, anywhere.
14. Our civil war was a bar fight that lasted a little over an hour.
15. The only person who was arrested in our civil war was an American
mercenary, who slept in and missed the whole thing... but showed up just in time to get caught.
16. We knew plaid was cool far before Seattle caught on.
17. The Hudsons Bay Company once owned over 10% of the earth's surface and is still
around as the worlds oldest company.
18. The average dog sled team can kill and devour a full grown human in under 3 minutes.
19. We still know what to do with all the parts of a buffalo.
20. We don't marry our kin-folk.
21. We invented ski-doos, jet-skis, velcro, zippers, insulin, penicillin, zambonis, the telephone and short wave radios that save countless lives each year.
22. We ALL have frozen our tongues to something metal and lived to tell about it.
23. A Canadian invented Superman.
BUT MOST IMPORTANT!
24. The handles on our beer cases are big enough to fit your hands with mitts on. OOOoohhhhh Canada!!
Oh yeah... and our elections only take one day.
Hey, stick that in your pipe and toke it.
FUCK YA!
2. Crispy Crunch, Coffee Crisp
3. The size of our footballs fields and one less down
4. Baseball is Canadian
5. Lacrosse is Canadian
6. Hockey is Canadian
7. Basketball is Canadian
8. Apple pie is Canadian
9. Mr. Dress-up kicks Mr. Rogers ass
10. Tim Hortons kicks Dunkin' Donuts ass
11. In the war of 1812, started by America, Canadians pushed the Americans back...past their 'White House'. Then we burned it...and most of Washington, under the command of William Lyon McKenzie who was insane and hammered all the time. We got bored because they ran away, so we came home and partied...Go figure..
12. Canada has the largest French population that never surrendered to Germany.
13. We have the largest English population that never ever surrendered or withdrew during any war to anyone, anywhere.
14. Our civil war was a bar fight that lasted a little over an hour.
15. The only person who was arrested in our civil war was an American
mercenary, who slept in and missed the whole thing... but showed up just in time to get caught.
16. We knew plaid was cool far before Seattle caught on.
17. The Hudsons Bay Company once owned over 10% of the earth's surface and is still
around as the worlds oldest company.
18. The average dog sled team can kill and devour a full grown human in under 3 minutes.
19. We still know what to do with all the parts of a buffalo.
20. We don't marry our kin-folk.
21. We invented ski-doos, jet-skis, velcro, zippers, insulin, penicillin, zambonis, the telephone and short wave radios that save countless lives each year.
22. We ALL have frozen our tongues to something metal and lived to tell about it.
23. A Canadian invented Superman.
BUT MOST IMPORTANT!
24. The handles on our beer cases are big enough to fit your hands with mitts on. OOOoohhhhh Canada!!
Oh yeah... and our elections only take one day.
Hey, stick that in your pipe and toke it.
FUCK YA!
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Lose weight doing chores!!
Summer is a good time to start losing weight; the sun is out, the birds are chirping and you can't hide behind those bulky layers anymore. Greg Harvey, personal trainer and manager of Fit 'N' Well in Alberta says, "Not only do people tend to be a little more active in the summer, but hot weather and activity tends to encourage us to drink more fluids. The more water we drink, the less hungry we are."
Chores around the garden or the house can be modified into a calorie-burning workout with a few simple techniques. To ensure your back is safe Harvey strongly recommends using your abs to lift rather than your upper or lower back. "As you lift, suck in your tummy as though you are putting on a tight pair of jeans. Contract your stomach muscles and lift. When you use these techniques, your transverse abdominus (outer abdomen) activates, providing stability to your lower back so more muscles are incorporated, thus lessening the strain on the back."
Any landscaping projects are good exercise as you move dirt and bricks, plant trees, mow the lawn, or rake etc. Here are three modified indoor household chores so you get the most from your time spent cleaning.
Laundry exercise
Fill your basket with laundry. Squat down, pick up your basket and as you are standing up, raise the basket over your head. Fully extend your arms until your elbows are almost straight. Bring the basket down again until it almost touches the floor and repeat 20 times. Keep your abdominals tight throughout the exercise.
This exercise works your buttocks, front and back of thighs, chest, triceps (the back of your arms), shoulders, lower and upper back, and biceps. To make it harder, put some magazines in the basket, or lift the basket a little further out from your body. Ensure you keep your abdominals tight throughout the movement, to protect your lower back.
Washing the floor exercise
Wet a rag in soapy water, kneel on a cushion of some sort and slide your upper body away from your knees and back again. This exercise works your abdominals, your lower back, shoulders, chest and triceps. Listen to your body and be sure not to extend your body too far out from your legs, since the farther out you go, the harder it will be on your lower back and arms. As you get stronger, extend further.
Stair climbing exercise
Going up and down stairs works your quads and calves. Take two stairs at a time and now it works your quads, calves, and the front and back of your thigh. Add a basket of laundry and you just added resistance. Hold the laundry out from your body a few inches and your abdominals and lower back will work to stabilize you as you go up and down the stairs. Holding the laundry basket away from your body slightly will also work your chest, biceps, shoulders, forearms and upper back.
The best thing you can do for your health is to listen to your body. Harvey says aches and pains are normal when you exercise, but not sharp lower-back or joint pain. So make sure pay attention to how your body is responding to the activity and you'll be a happier, healthier person for it.
Provided by Dayna Boyer
Chores around the garden or the house can be modified into a calorie-burning workout with a few simple techniques. To ensure your back is safe Harvey strongly recommends using your abs to lift rather than your upper or lower back. "As you lift, suck in your tummy as though you are putting on a tight pair of jeans. Contract your stomach muscles and lift. When you use these techniques, your transverse abdominus (outer abdomen) activates, providing stability to your lower back so more muscles are incorporated, thus lessening the strain on the back."
Any landscaping projects are good exercise as you move dirt and bricks, plant trees, mow the lawn, or rake etc. Here are three modified indoor household chores so you get the most from your time spent cleaning.
Laundry exercise
Fill your basket with laundry. Squat down, pick up your basket and as you are standing up, raise the basket over your head. Fully extend your arms until your elbows are almost straight. Bring the basket down again until it almost touches the floor and repeat 20 times. Keep your abdominals tight throughout the exercise.
This exercise works your buttocks, front and back of thighs, chest, triceps (the back of your arms), shoulders, lower and upper back, and biceps. To make it harder, put some magazines in the basket, or lift the basket a little further out from your body. Ensure you keep your abdominals tight throughout the movement, to protect your lower back.
Washing the floor exercise
Wet a rag in soapy water, kneel on a cushion of some sort and slide your upper body away from your knees and back again. This exercise works your abdominals, your lower back, shoulders, chest and triceps. Listen to your body and be sure not to extend your body too far out from your legs, since the farther out you go, the harder it will be on your lower back and arms. As you get stronger, extend further.
Stair climbing exercise
Going up and down stairs works your quads and calves. Take two stairs at a time and now it works your quads, calves, and the front and back of your thigh. Add a basket of laundry and you just added resistance. Hold the laundry out from your body a few inches and your abdominals and lower back will work to stabilize you as you go up and down the stairs. Holding the laundry basket away from your body slightly will also work your chest, biceps, shoulders, forearms and upper back.
The best thing you can do for your health is to listen to your body. Harvey says aches and pains are normal when you exercise, but not sharp lower-back or joint pain. So make sure pay attention to how your body is responding to the activity and you'll be a happier, healthier person for it.
Provided by Dayna Boyer
Saturday, February 28, 2009
7 Diet Mistakes You Can Avoid
No matter if you are trying to lose weight, maintain your weight, or just eat healthier this year, the concept of diet will emerge at some point.
New diets are coming out all the time and some are better than others, but too often we sabotage a new eating plan or healthy eating choice. This year, be aware of these seven common diet mistakes and steer clear of them.
Setting unrealistic goals. When you set goals for a diet, make sure those goals are achievable. Don't try to do everything at once and then expect to suddenly weigh what you did in high school. An example of an attainable goal might be to eat two snacks of fresh fruit every day and three servings of vegetables between lunch and dinner.
Eating only one time each day. I often hear that people, in order to "save" calories, are skipping breakfast and lunch and only eating dinner. Let me tell you: This plan will save you no calories and can squelch your metabolism in the bargain. Eating three meals a day is important to your general health.
Thinking short-term only. This is why people lose and then regain weight so quickly. A change in diet isn't meant to be just for a few months; it should become a lifelong habit. Think long-term changes.
Underestimating your food portions. We are all guilty of this. Research shows that, when recalling foods consumed, most people under-report the amounts they ate. You may think that you only are having one cup of cereal — but use a measuring cup just to be sure.
Making your diet plan too restrictive. When starting a diet, people usually err on the side of caution and eat too little — a practice they aren't able to maintain long-term. Also, a diet never means excluding major food groups like whole grains, fruits, or dairy.
Not having a support system. When working on eating healthier, the more support you have the better. Tell others around you about your goals and let them know how they can best help you.
Forgetting about exercise. People often ask me, "Which one is more important, diet or exercise?" I reply, "Do you want your airplane to have one wing or two?" Diet and exercise need to be done together — don't forget to exercise regularly.
New diets are coming out all the time and some are better than others, but too often we sabotage a new eating plan or healthy eating choice. This year, be aware of these seven common diet mistakes and steer clear of them.
Setting unrealistic goals. When you set goals for a diet, make sure those goals are achievable. Don't try to do everything at once and then expect to suddenly weigh what you did in high school. An example of an attainable goal might be to eat two snacks of fresh fruit every day and three servings of vegetables between lunch and dinner.
Eating only one time each day. I often hear that people, in order to "save" calories, are skipping breakfast and lunch and only eating dinner. Let me tell you: This plan will save you no calories and can squelch your metabolism in the bargain. Eating three meals a day is important to your general health.
Thinking short-term only. This is why people lose and then regain weight so quickly. A change in diet isn't meant to be just for a few months; it should become a lifelong habit. Think long-term changes.
Underestimating your food portions. We are all guilty of this. Research shows that, when recalling foods consumed, most people under-report the amounts they ate. You may think that you only are having one cup of cereal — but use a measuring cup just to be sure.
Making your diet plan too restrictive. When starting a diet, people usually err on the side of caution and eat too little — a practice they aren't able to maintain long-term. Also, a diet never means excluding major food groups like whole grains, fruits, or dairy.
Not having a support system. When working on eating healthier, the more support you have the better. Tell others around you about your goals and let them know how they can best help you.
Forgetting about exercise. People often ask me, "Which one is more important, diet or exercise?" I reply, "Do you want your airplane to have one wing or two?" Diet and exercise need to be done together — don't forget to exercise regularly.
Monday, February 23, 2009
4 Signs A Guy Is Over You....
#1. He Doesn't Do What He Says He Will
Yes, it's true: You usually have to ask guys about 10 times before they'll actually help you put in those bathroom shelves -- that's typical. But when he promises to go with you to a friend's party and then bails or doesn't call when he says he will, that's a problem.
#2. He Keeps Asking You, "Are We Okay?"
Let's be honest here: Single men hate to talk about relationships. So if he starts suggesting weekly powwows, take notice.
#3. He Makes You into the Bad Guy
Your guy starts constantly choosing his buddies over you... and yet, he says you're the selfish one. It's called deflecting.
#4. He Makes Comments About Attractive Women
Look, no guy is stupid enough to go on about how sensual some random chick is in front of his girlfriend... unless, of course, he's trying to be inconsiderate.
Yes, it's true: You usually have to ask guys about 10 times before they'll actually help you put in those bathroom shelves -- that's typical. But when he promises to go with you to a friend's party and then bails or doesn't call when he says he will, that's a problem.
#2. He Keeps Asking You, "Are We Okay?"
Let's be honest here: Single men hate to talk about relationships. So if he starts suggesting weekly powwows, take notice.
#3. He Makes You into the Bad Guy
Your guy starts constantly choosing his buddies over you... and yet, he says you're the selfish one. It's called deflecting.
#4. He Makes Comments About Attractive Women
Look, no guy is stupid enough to go on about how sensual some random chick is in front of his girlfriend... unless, of course, he's trying to be inconsiderate.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
HAPPY 4 YEAR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY & VALENTINES!
Today is my 4 year wedding Anniversary, I am sooooo lucky and happy. I wouldn't change anything. I wanted to say, " HAPPY ANNIVERSARY & VALENTINES " to my hubby and that " I LOVE YOU " ^_^
Today I also found out some info on Medical Centers which makes me happy I finally found some that will work with you when it comes to pay plans etc. I am so not used to not having free health care lol. That's another thing I miss about Canada. No Free health care down here lol. Ah well things will work out I am sure of it.
Well hubby's working a double so time for workout, shower, housework and City of Heroes all day. We went and celebrated last night so all is good. Now to keep myself busy hmm might work on my cookbook too. Wanna get this thing published this year. <3
Happy Valentines Everyone!
Today I also found out some info on Medical Centers which makes me happy I finally found some that will work with you when it comes to pay plans etc. I am so not used to not having free health care lol. That's another thing I miss about Canada. No Free health care down here lol. Ah well things will work out I am sure of it.
Well hubby's working a double so time for workout, shower, housework and City of Heroes all day. We went and celebrated last night so all is good. Now to keep myself busy hmm might work on my cookbook too. Wanna get this thing published this year. <3
Happy Valentines Everyone!
Monday, February 09, 2009
Looser pants by Friday !
Provided by Rasha Mourtada
So you'd like to shed a few pounds but the word diet makes you shudder - we hear ya. But with a couple of nips here and a few tucks there, you can cut back 500 calories a day without making huge sacrifices - and lose up to one pound a week. That's right: small calorie savings add up to big weight loss over time. Mix and match these 20 tricks and watch the pounds disappear!
Breakfast
* Save 50 calories Instead of tossing back a glass of orange juice with your breakfast, eat an actual orange, says Vancouver registered dietitian Ramona Josephson. Bonus: more fibre.
* Save 75 calories Edmonton resident Keri Guenther, who has lost 90 pounds on Weight Watchers by making small calorie cuts, loves Tim Hortons' English Toffee Cappuccino. When she treats herself, she asks her server to fill half her cup with regular coffee before adding the sugar-laden beverage, reducing the calories by half.
* Save 100 calories Cut the fat, keep the meat: instead of five strips of bacon, opt for two slices of leaner grilled back bacon.
* Save 125 calories Since egg yolks contain fat and are high in cholesterol, whip up a breakfast omelette with one whole egg and two protein-rich egg whites. Bonus: registered dietitian Linda Barton of Petersburg, Ont., says eating eggs keeps you feeling full longer.
* Save 200 calories Swap yogurt with granola for a cereal with at least four grams of fibre and a small amount of your favourite sweet cereal. "Nothing beats Shredded Wheat with Froot Loops sprinkled on top," says Mary Meldrum of Waterloo, Ont., who's lost 65 pounds.
Lunch
* Save 50 calories Use calorie-reduced mayonnaise instead of full-fat mayo on your sandwich (to add some kick, mix a few drops of your favourite hot sauce with the mayo first).
* Save 75 calories Ottawa resident Maritia Gully hardly ever uses low-fat salad dressing. Instead, she tops her greens with a mix of 1 tablespoon (15 mL) each water and regular dressing. "It tastes a lot better," adds Gully, who's lost about 30 pounds.
* Save 100 calories Melissa Raghunandan loves cream soups but hates their high-calorie price tags. So, the Kitchener, Ont., resident, who has dropped 10 pounds, thickens both homemade and canned soups with evaporated skim milk instead of heavy cream.
* Save 125 calories Ditch the lunchtime bagel in favour of two slices of multi-grain toast and you'll lose calories and gain healthy fibre.
* Save 200 calories If you're at a fast-food joint, you're better off ordering a regular burger - hold the mayo - than the breaded chicken or fish sandwich. If you aren't craving a burger, go for the grilled chicken and you'll still save about 100 calories.
Dinner
• Save 50 calories For those must-eat-fries-now moments, opt for 15 thick-cut fries instead of 25 skinny ones. Massimo Marcone, a professor of food science at the University of Guelph in Ontario, found that thick-cut fries contain about 20 per cent fewer calories each than skinny fries because they've absorbed less oil.
• Save 75 calories You don't have to banish all carbs from your dinner plate to cut calories. Swap rice with 1/2 cup (125 mL) couscous cooked in vegetable or chicken broth.
• Save 100 calories Lora Samaha of Calgary has lost 35 pounds with her calorie-saving tricks, including substituting Yves Veggie Ground Round for ground beef in lasagna, chili and more. It delivers the same amount of protein with fewer calories.
• Save 125 calories Give your veggies flavour by sautéing them in your favourite broth or wine instead of oil.
• Save 200 calories Gully gives in to her cravings for alfredo sauce, but instead of making it with calorie-laden heavy cream, she uses creamed cottage cheese. "It satisfies my craving for something creamy and makes the meal richer without adding a lot of calories," she says.
Splurges!
• Save 75 calories Carm Bozzo of Hamilton lost 13 pounds four years ago and has kept it off. One of her calorie-saving secrets is to reach for frozen low-calorie pudding cups instead of fat-laden ice cream.
• Save 100 calories Out for drinks? Instead of downing two glasses of wine, swap one for sparkling water.
• Save 125 calories If you're craving a soda, mix Crystal Light with soda water. Bonus: you'll also cut back on caffeine.
• Save 200 calories Nuts offer fibre and a generous helping of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. But 1/2 cup (125 mL) of most nuts packs almost 400 calories, says registered dietitian Linda Barton of Petersburg, Ont. Try this: mix 1/4 cup (50 mL) of almonds with 1/4 cup (50 mL) of your favourite high-fibre cereal.
• Save 250 calories Opt for biscotti instead of a muffin at your local coffee house to satisfy your sweet tooth, says Toronto registered dietitian Susan Osher. Just don't choose one covered in chocolate!
So you'd like to shed a few pounds but the word diet makes you shudder - we hear ya. But with a couple of nips here and a few tucks there, you can cut back 500 calories a day without making huge sacrifices - and lose up to one pound a week. That's right: small calorie savings add up to big weight loss over time. Mix and match these 20 tricks and watch the pounds disappear!
Breakfast
* Save 50 calories Instead of tossing back a glass of orange juice with your breakfast, eat an actual orange, says Vancouver registered dietitian Ramona Josephson. Bonus: more fibre.
* Save 75 calories Edmonton resident Keri Guenther, who has lost 90 pounds on Weight Watchers by making small calorie cuts, loves Tim Hortons' English Toffee Cappuccino. When she treats herself, she asks her server to fill half her cup with regular coffee before adding the sugar-laden beverage, reducing the calories by half.
* Save 100 calories Cut the fat, keep the meat: instead of five strips of bacon, opt for two slices of leaner grilled back bacon.
* Save 125 calories Since egg yolks contain fat and are high in cholesterol, whip up a breakfast omelette with one whole egg and two protein-rich egg whites. Bonus: registered dietitian Linda Barton of Petersburg, Ont., says eating eggs keeps you feeling full longer.
* Save 200 calories Swap yogurt with granola for a cereal with at least four grams of fibre and a small amount of your favourite sweet cereal. "Nothing beats Shredded Wheat with Froot Loops sprinkled on top," says Mary Meldrum of Waterloo, Ont., who's lost 65 pounds.
Lunch
* Save 50 calories Use calorie-reduced mayonnaise instead of full-fat mayo on your sandwich (to add some kick, mix a few drops of your favourite hot sauce with the mayo first).
* Save 75 calories Ottawa resident Maritia Gully hardly ever uses low-fat salad dressing. Instead, she tops her greens with a mix of 1 tablespoon (15 mL) each water and regular dressing. "It tastes a lot better," adds Gully, who's lost about 30 pounds.
* Save 100 calories Melissa Raghunandan loves cream soups but hates their high-calorie price tags. So, the Kitchener, Ont., resident, who has dropped 10 pounds, thickens both homemade and canned soups with evaporated skim milk instead of heavy cream.
* Save 125 calories Ditch the lunchtime bagel in favour of two slices of multi-grain toast and you'll lose calories and gain healthy fibre.
* Save 200 calories If you're at a fast-food joint, you're better off ordering a regular burger - hold the mayo - than the breaded chicken or fish sandwich. If you aren't craving a burger, go for the grilled chicken and you'll still save about 100 calories.
Dinner
• Save 50 calories For those must-eat-fries-now moments, opt for 15 thick-cut fries instead of 25 skinny ones. Massimo Marcone, a professor of food science at the University of Guelph in Ontario, found that thick-cut fries contain about 20 per cent fewer calories each than skinny fries because they've absorbed less oil.
• Save 75 calories You don't have to banish all carbs from your dinner plate to cut calories. Swap rice with 1/2 cup (125 mL) couscous cooked in vegetable or chicken broth.
• Save 100 calories Lora Samaha of Calgary has lost 35 pounds with her calorie-saving tricks, including substituting Yves Veggie Ground Round for ground beef in lasagna, chili and more. It delivers the same amount of protein with fewer calories.
• Save 125 calories Give your veggies flavour by sautéing them in your favourite broth or wine instead of oil.
• Save 200 calories Gully gives in to her cravings for alfredo sauce, but instead of making it with calorie-laden heavy cream, she uses creamed cottage cheese. "It satisfies my craving for something creamy and makes the meal richer without adding a lot of calories," she says.
Splurges!
• Save 75 calories Carm Bozzo of Hamilton lost 13 pounds four years ago and has kept it off. One of her calorie-saving secrets is to reach for frozen low-calorie pudding cups instead of fat-laden ice cream.
• Save 100 calories Out for drinks? Instead of downing two glasses of wine, swap one for sparkling water.
• Save 125 calories If you're craving a soda, mix Crystal Light with soda water. Bonus: you'll also cut back on caffeine.
• Save 200 calories Nuts offer fibre and a generous helping of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. But 1/2 cup (125 mL) of most nuts packs almost 400 calories, says registered dietitian Linda Barton of Petersburg, Ont. Try this: mix 1/4 cup (50 mL) of almonds with 1/4 cup (50 mL) of your favourite high-fibre cereal.
• Save 250 calories Opt for biscotti instead of a muffin at your local coffee house to satisfy your sweet tooth, says Toronto registered dietitian Susan Osher. Just don't choose one covered in chocolate!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Winter Energy Saving Tips....
With winter just around the corner, many of us are bracing ourselves for the arrival of higher electricity bills. Sadly, it’s inevitable; our country’s famously frigid climate forces us to increase our energy consumption during the cold months. There is, however, a way to reduce your monthly electricity consumption, and bill; by making small changes to your daily habits. Here are a few tips:
HEATING
• Replace your regular thermostats by electronic ones. They work to keep room temperatures constant and are programmable so you won’t need to remember to turn down the heat at night.
• Set your thermostats to 19ºC in the daytime and 17ºC at night. These are the average comfortable indoor temperatures during the winter months.
• On cold days, put on a warm sweater and add an extra cover onto your bed. You will feel warm and toasty, without having to turn up the heat.
• At night, close all your shades, blinds and drapes to keep the heat inside the house. Keep them open during the day to let in light… and heat from the sun.
• If you have a fireplace, remember to close the damper once the fire goes out.
• Weather-strip all doors and windows to keep the heat inside and the cold outside.
LIGHTING
• Dust your light bulbs regularly to keep their light shining brightly.
• Avoid unnecessary lighting in your home; turn the lights off in all unused rooms.
• When painting your home, opt for lighter wall colours that will reflect light.
• Replace your regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs; they use up to 75% less energy and last almost 10 times longer.
HOT WATER
• In the shower, cut the water while you’re soaping up, shaving, or shampooing your hair.
• Install a low flow showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water used.
• Wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket to eliminate 97% of heat loss.
• Make sure to tightly close all faucets and fix the running ones. You’ll save water and energy if it’s the hot water tap that was leaking.
• Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible.
IN THE KITCHEN
• Don’t leave the refrigerator door open for long periods of time.
• Avoid placing the fridge right next to the stove.
• When using the stove, make sure to use both a pot and burner that are size-appropriate for what you are making (not too big). A small soup = a small saucepan + a small burner.
• When cooking, try to cover pots as often as possible.
• Choose pots and pans that have an evenly flat bottom, ensuring efficient heat distribution.
HEATING
• Replace your regular thermostats by electronic ones. They work to keep room temperatures constant and are programmable so you won’t need to remember to turn down the heat at night.
• Set your thermostats to 19ºC in the daytime and 17ºC at night. These are the average comfortable indoor temperatures during the winter months.
• On cold days, put on a warm sweater and add an extra cover onto your bed. You will feel warm and toasty, without having to turn up the heat.
• At night, close all your shades, blinds and drapes to keep the heat inside the house. Keep them open during the day to let in light… and heat from the sun.
• If you have a fireplace, remember to close the damper once the fire goes out.
• Weather-strip all doors and windows to keep the heat inside and the cold outside.
LIGHTING
• Dust your light bulbs regularly to keep their light shining brightly.
• Avoid unnecessary lighting in your home; turn the lights off in all unused rooms.
• When painting your home, opt for lighter wall colours that will reflect light.
• Replace your regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs; they use up to 75% less energy and last almost 10 times longer.
HOT WATER
• In the shower, cut the water while you’re soaping up, shaving, or shampooing your hair.
• Install a low flow showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water used.
• Wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket to eliminate 97% of heat loss.
• Make sure to tightly close all faucets and fix the running ones. You’ll save water and energy if it’s the hot water tap that was leaking.
• Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible.
IN THE KITCHEN
• Don’t leave the refrigerator door open for long periods of time.
• Avoid placing the fridge right next to the stove.
• When using the stove, make sure to use both a pot and burner that are size-appropriate for what you are making (not too big). A small soup = a small saucepan + a small burner.
• When cooking, try to cover pots as often as possible.
• Choose pots and pans that have an evenly flat bottom, ensuring efficient heat distribution.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Careers that top $30 per hour !
In just 60 minutes, you could earn enough to pay for a tank of gas, the cable bill, gym membership, or dinner out. Thirty dollars still covers some of life's essential costs. Earn that much in just one hour on the job, and you have enough to build a comfortable life.
The latest U.S. Census Bureau figures put the median household income in the U.S. at $50,233. A $30-per-hour job brings in $62,400 before taxes, or 20% more than the national median. For many people, this extra margin is just one promotion or one credential away. To boost your economic security, consider these 10 careers with salary data as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Database Administrator
Mean Hourly Wage: $33.78
Salary: $70,260
Database administrators perform a vital role in our information economy, managing the database systems that help companies store, process, and access data effectively. Job growth is stunning in this high-demand field as well -- the profession is expected to grow 37 percent through 2016. Continuing education is a must to keep up with evolving technology, but entry requirements are modest. You can launch this $30-plus-an-hour career with an associate's degree in database administration or information technology.
Registered Nurse
Mean Hourly Wage: $30.04
Salary: $62,480
Historic demand for registered nurses is inspiring many people to reinvent themselves as health care practitioners. Nursing is projected to generate more new jobs than any other profession -- an estimated 587,000 positions through 2016, which represents a 23% increase in a decade. To take advantage of this boom, head to nursing school for your bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). Accelerated programs are available for career changers who already have a bachelor degree in another field.
Technical Writer
Median Hourly Wage: $30.18
Salary: $62,780
Technical writers interpret engineering and scientific information for a lay audience, producing product documentation, user manuals, project proposals, and scientific reports. Most writers come to the field with a college bachelor's degree in a communications or liberal arts field. Some colleges offer specialized certificate programs in technical communication, which incorporate IT literacy training.
Fashion Designer
Median Hourly Wage: $34.22
Salary: $71,170
Fashion design has the reputation as an all-or-nothing labor of love -- you begin as a starving artist and ultimately attain celebrity stature designing haute couture. In fact, the majority of fashion designers -- 3 in 4 designers -- work secure, salaried jobs for apparel manufacturers. What these artists give up in suffering and glamour they make up for in a solid and stable paycheck. A job as a salaried fashion designer starts with an associate's or bachelor's degree in fashion design.
Accountant
Median Hourly Wage: $30.11
Salary: $62,640
Accountants should have no trouble finding work as businesses throughout the economy sort through the financial rubble of the credit crisis. Mounting federal regulation will also contribute to demand for trained accountants. Accountants working for accounting and bookkeeping services earn upwards of $30 per hour. These employers hire trained professionals with a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance.
Environmental Scientist
Median Hourly Wage: $30.71
Salary: $63,870
Environmental scientists will be the heroes of the coming era, developing much-needed strategies to redress environmental damage to soil, water, and air. The field is expected to grow 25% in response to new federal regulations and funding, as well as private investment. A bachelor's degree in earth sciences will get you started in this fascinating and important field. Many scientists go on to a master's degree to secure the best opportunities.
K-12 Curriculum Designer
Median Hourly Wage: $30.87
Salary: $64,220
Curriculum designers are at the forefront of educational research, developing new instructional materials and strategies to improve the quality of education in our nation's schools. The job typically calls for a graduate-level degree in the field, such as a master's degree in education (M.Ed.).
Dental Hygienist
Mean Hourly Wage: $31.21
Salary: $64,910
To make about the same amount of money with a two-year associate's degree, enroll in a dental hygiene program. Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to promote oral health and hygiene. Hygienists enjoy distinction as one of the nation's fastest growing occupations, with 30% growth expected through 2016.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Median Hourly Wage: $30.05
Salary: $62,500
Solving crimes is all in a day's work for these criminal justice professionals. Criminal investigators can build their skill set by completing an associate's degree in criminal justice, where they take courses in crime scene investigation, criminal investigation procedures, and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics rates job opportunities as "excellent."
Television Producer
Median Hourly Wage: $31.66
Salary: $65,850
Producers coordinate the television features we enjoy, from sitcoms to dramas to the nightly news. To build the necessary skill set, producers enter the field with an associate's or bachelor's degree in mass communications or broadcast media.
A tight economy hasn't stopped employers in these ten fields from hiring qualified grads. With the right degree, you can upgrade your career and find job security in the form of a $30-an-hour paycheck.
The latest U.S. Census Bureau figures put the median household income in the U.S. at $50,233. A $30-per-hour job brings in $62,400 before taxes, or 20% more than the national median. For many people, this extra margin is just one promotion or one credential away. To boost your economic security, consider these 10 careers with salary data as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Database Administrator
Mean Hourly Wage: $33.78
Salary: $70,260
Database administrators perform a vital role in our information economy, managing the database systems that help companies store, process, and access data effectively. Job growth is stunning in this high-demand field as well -- the profession is expected to grow 37 percent through 2016. Continuing education is a must to keep up with evolving technology, but entry requirements are modest. You can launch this $30-plus-an-hour career with an associate's degree in database administration or information technology.
Registered Nurse
Mean Hourly Wage: $30.04
Salary: $62,480
Historic demand for registered nurses is inspiring many people to reinvent themselves as health care practitioners. Nursing is projected to generate more new jobs than any other profession -- an estimated 587,000 positions through 2016, which represents a 23% increase in a decade. To take advantage of this boom, head to nursing school for your bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). Accelerated programs are available for career changers who already have a bachelor degree in another field.
Technical Writer
Median Hourly Wage: $30.18
Salary: $62,780
Technical writers interpret engineering and scientific information for a lay audience, producing product documentation, user manuals, project proposals, and scientific reports. Most writers come to the field with a college bachelor's degree in a communications or liberal arts field. Some colleges offer specialized certificate programs in technical communication, which incorporate IT literacy training.
Fashion Designer
Median Hourly Wage: $34.22
Salary: $71,170
Fashion design has the reputation as an all-or-nothing labor of love -- you begin as a starving artist and ultimately attain celebrity stature designing haute couture. In fact, the majority of fashion designers -- 3 in 4 designers -- work secure, salaried jobs for apparel manufacturers. What these artists give up in suffering and glamour they make up for in a solid and stable paycheck. A job as a salaried fashion designer starts with an associate's or bachelor's degree in fashion design.
Accountant
Median Hourly Wage: $30.11
Salary: $62,640
Accountants should have no trouble finding work as businesses throughout the economy sort through the financial rubble of the credit crisis. Mounting federal regulation will also contribute to demand for trained accountants. Accountants working for accounting and bookkeeping services earn upwards of $30 per hour. These employers hire trained professionals with a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance.
Environmental Scientist
Median Hourly Wage: $30.71
Salary: $63,870
Environmental scientists will be the heroes of the coming era, developing much-needed strategies to redress environmental damage to soil, water, and air. The field is expected to grow 25% in response to new federal regulations and funding, as well as private investment. A bachelor's degree in earth sciences will get you started in this fascinating and important field. Many scientists go on to a master's degree to secure the best opportunities.
K-12 Curriculum Designer
Median Hourly Wage: $30.87
Salary: $64,220
Curriculum designers are at the forefront of educational research, developing new instructional materials and strategies to improve the quality of education in our nation's schools. The job typically calls for a graduate-level degree in the field, such as a master's degree in education (M.Ed.).
Dental Hygienist
Mean Hourly Wage: $31.21
Salary: $64,910
To make about the same amount of money with a two-year associate's degree, enroll in a dental hygiene program. Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to promote oral health and hygiene. Hygienists enjoy distinction as one of the nation's fastest growing occupations, with 30% growth expected through 2016.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Median Hourly Wage: $30.05
Salary: $62,500
Solving crimes is all in a day's work for these criminal justice professionals. Criminal investigators can build their skill set by completing an associate's degree in criminal justice, where they take courses in crime scene investigation, criminal investigation procedures, and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics rates job opportunities as "excellent."
Television Producer
Median Hourly Wage: $31.66
Salary: $65,850
Producers coordinate the television features we enjoy, from sitcoms to dramas to the nightly news. To build the necessary skill set, producers enter the field with an associate's or bachelor's degree in mass communications or broadcast media.
A tight economy hasn't stopped employers in these ten fields from hiring qualified grads. With the right degree, you can upgrade your career and find job security in the form of a $30-an-hour paycheck.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Five Things Super-Happy Couples Do Every Day
I Know We Do These Everyday! :)
Daily Habit #1: Talk to Each Other
Happily married couples typically say their relationships work better when they can sit down and gab one-on-one, like thinking, feeling adults. But who's got time for that?
Daily Habit #2: Flirt
Most couples realize that getting intimate every night isn't possible, let alone a worthy goal. Indeed, a 1994 University of Chicago survey of Americans' physical intimacy habits found that only about a third of adults have physical intimacy more than once a week.
Daily Habit #3: Get Stupid Together
Daily Habit #4: Declare Your Independence
Daily Habit #5: Share a Spiritual Moment
In another University of Chicago survey, this one of married couples, 75 percent of the Americans who pray with their spouses reported that their marriages are "very happy" (compared to 57 percent of those who don't). Those who pray together are also more likely to say they respect each other and discuss their relationship together. Not to say that prayer is a cure for all that ails you. But whether they're talking about a simple grace at dinnertime or some soul-searching meditation, couples routinely say that a shared spiritual life helps keep them close.
Daily Habit #1: Talk to Each Other
Happily married couples typically say their relationships work better when they can sit down and gab one-on-one, like thinking, feeling adults. But who's got time for that?
Daily Habit #2: Flirt
Most couples realize that getting intimate every night isn't possible, let alone a worthy goal. Indeed, a 1994 University of Chicago survey of Americans' physical intimacy habits found that only about a third of adults have physical intimacy more than once a week.
Daily Habit #3: Get Stupid Together
Daily Habit #4: Declare Your Independence
Daily Habit #5: Share a Spiritual Moment
In another University of Chicago survey, this one of married couples, 75 percent of the Americans who pray with their spouses reported that their marriages are "very happy" (compared to 57 percent of those who don't). Those who pray together are also more likely to say they respect each other and discuss their relationship together. Not to say that prayer is a cure for all that ails you. But whether they're talking about a simple grace at dinnertime or some soul-searching meditation, couples routinely say that a shared spiritual life helps keep them close.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Updates and Stuff...
Well it's the new year, not much been happening really.
Playing City of Heroes, D&D, Pathfinder, a ton of movie watching since we got netflix and just hanging out and having fun.
Just trying to have alot of us time.
We even turn off the phones and ignore everyone lol.
I love when we do that myself, its relaxing.
I been still at my workout, though I have come down with a cold/flu which sucks, I did my workout today anyways but I took away all my energy doing it and the housework on top of that. I'm sleepy now......
Other then that not much else really, hubby's napping so I am gonna go finish my cape mission in City of Heroes and make a new costume for Cosmic Photon my Peacebringer.
Playing City of Heroes, D&D, Pathfinder, a ton of movie watching since we got netflix and just hanging out and having fun.
Just trying to have alot of us time.
We even turn off the phones and ignore everyone lol.
I love when we do that myself, its relaxing.
I been still at my workout, though I have come down with a cold/flu which sucks, I did my workout today anyways but I took away all my energy doing it and the housework on top of that. I'm sleepy now......
Other then that not much else really, hubby's napping so I am gonna go finish my cape mission in City of Heroes and make a new costume for Cosmic Photon my Peacebringer.
Monday, January 05, 2009
HAPPY NEW YEARS!
Things been going great, even the out look of Obama and his plans, sounds promising, but we will have to see! Here is a bit of something I found on yahoo news this morning about his tax plan, more take home pay for workers too!? Well just read it =)
Jan. 5 (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Barack Obama’s economic stimulus package will include hundreds of billions of dollars worth of tax breaks for individuals and businesses, according to a transition official and Democratic aides.
Obama is asking that tax cuts make up 40 percent of a stimulus package, the people say. The measure may be worth as much as $775 billion, a Democratic aide says, meaning tax cuts may constitute more than $300 billion of the legislation.
The dollar today rose to the highest level in almost three weeks against the euro and also surged against the yen on speculation that the Obama plan would help the U.S. economy recover from recession.
Making tax cuts such a large part of the stimulus may help win support from congressional Republicans. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, said his party would support an immediate middle-class tax cut as part of any stimulus package.
“Republicans, by and large, think tax relief is a great way to get money to people immediately,” McConnell said yesterday on ABC’s “This Week.”
The plan would attempt to boost consumer demand by spending $140 billion on tax breaks worth $500 for individuals and $1,000 for couples, according to a House Democratic aide. The change would come by altering tax-withholding rules, rather than through a rebate check as with the previous stimulus plan enacted last year, so that workers would see an immediate increase in their take-home pay.
The $500 tax credit would apply to the first $8,100 of wages, meaning a worker who earns $24,400 a year and is paid twice a month would get about $60 extra per paycheck for four months.
Business Tax Breaks
For businesses, the aide said, lawmakers will use similar measures they’ve employed in past stimulus bills, such as allowing companies to get refunds for taxes paid in any or all of the past five years by deducting losses they’ve incurred now; those losses can currently only be carried back two years.
Congress is also likely to include incentives such as accelerated depreciation to encourage companies to buy equipment now rather than defer such investments. The plan also attempts to combat joblessness by offering companies tax breaks for hiring more workers, the aide said.
The tax provisions are also likely to repeal the alternative minimum tax on municipal bonds issued to build airport runways, sewer systems and other privately run facilities that benefit the population at large, another aide said. Congress is unlikely to enact a new round of incentives for U.S.-based multinational corporations to repatriate foreign earnings at a discounted tax rate as urged by business groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, that aide said.
Accelerated Tax Breaks
Many of the business tax incentives would be accelerated so that any dollar written off now would not be able to be claimed in future years, the aide said. That would reduce the long-term impact of the tax cuts on the federal budget deficit.
Obama is slated to meet today with congressional leaders from both parties to discuss the plan. Democrats said Congress probably won’t be able to complete work on the plan by January 20, the day of the inauguration, as some had hoped.
“It’s going to be very difficult to get a package put together that early,” said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer in an interview on “Fox News Sunday.” “We want to do this right.” He said he expects the House to pass the bill by the end of the month and get the legislation through the Senate and signed into law in February.
Urgency
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, in an interview yesterday on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” downplayed the importance of what he called a “false” deadline. “The urgency of this, everyone knows about -- but I’m not going to have some false deadline,” Reid said. “It’ll take as much time as it needs to get done.”
Obama has called on lawmakers to quickly pass legislation to prop up the economy, which is in its worst slump in decades and could deteriorate further without significant fiscal stimulus. Economists surveyed by Bloomberg last month projected gross domestic product would shrink in the fourth quarter by 4.3 percent, the biggest decline since 1982.
Jan. 5 (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Barack Obama’s economic stimulus package will include hundreds of billions of dollars worth of tax breaks for individuals and businesses, according to a transition official and Democratic aides.
Obama is asking that tax cuts make up 40 percent of a stimulus package, the people say. The measure may be worth as much as $775 billion, a Democratic aide says, meaning tax cuts may constitute more than $300 billion of the legislation.
The dollar today rose to the highest level in almost three weeks against the euro and also surged against the yen on speculation that the Obama plan would help the U.S. economy recover from recession.
Making tax cuts such a large part of the stimulus may help win support from congressional Republicans. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, said his party would support an immediate middle-class tax cut as part of any stimulus package.
“Republicans, by and large, think tax relief is a great way to get money to people immediately,” McConnell said yesterday on ABC’s “This Week.”
The plan would attempt to boost consumer demand by spending $140 billion on tax breaks worth $500 for individuals and $1,000 for couples, according to a House Democratic aide. The change would come by altering tax-withholding rules, rather than through a rebate check as with the previous stimulus plan enacted last year, so that workers would see an immediate increase in their take-home pay.
The $500 tax credit would apply to the first $8,100 of wages, meaning a worker who earns $24,400 a year and is paid twice a month would get about $60 extra per paycheck for four months.
Business Tax Breaks
For businesses, the aide said, lawmakers will use similar measures they’ve employed in past stimulus bills, such as allowing companies to get refunds for taxes paid in any or all of the past five years by deducting losses they’ve incurred now; those losses can currently only be carried back two years.
Congress is also likely to include incentives such as accelerated depreciation to encourage companies to buy equipment now rather than defer such investments. The plan also attempts to combat joblessness by offering companies tax breaks for hiring more workers, the aide said.
The tax provisions are also likely to repeal the alternative minimum tax on municipal bonds issued to build airport runways, sewer systems and other privately run facilities that benefit the population at large, another aide said. Congress is unlikely to enact a new round of incentives for U.S.-based multinational corporations to repatriate foreign earnings at a discounted tax rate as urged by business groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, that aide said.
Accelerated Tax Breaks
Many of the business tax incentives would be accelerated so that any dollar written off now would not be able to be claimed in future years, the aide said. That would reduce the long-term impact of the tax cuts on the federal budget deficit.
Obama is slated to meet today with congressional leaders from both parties to discuss the plan. Democrats said Congress probably won’t be able to complete work on the plan by January 20, the day of the inauguration, as some had hoped.
“It’s going to be very difficult to get a package put together that early,” said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer in an interview on “Fox News Sunday.” “We want to do this right.” He said he expects the House to pass the bill by the end of the month and get the legislation through the Senate and signed into law in February.
Urgency
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, in an interview yesterday on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” downplayed the importance of what he called a “false” deadline. “The urgency of this, everyone knows about -- but I’m not going to have some false deadline,” Reid said. “It’ll take as much time as it needs to get done.”
Obama has called on lawmakers to quickly pass legislation to prop up the economy, which is in its worst slump in decades and could deteriorate further without significant fiscal stimulus. Economists surveyed by Bloomberg last month projected gross domestic product would shrink in the fourth quarter by 4.3 percent, the biggest decline since 1982.
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