Guess the following 2 words:
1.เซร่า
2.ยับปิ้ง
Only I will know
Interesting Translation using Google
1. Camera Access
2. Shopping Crease
Muahahaha...Funny
Monday, February 28, 2011
How to Speed-Clean Your Kitchen
How to Speed-Clean Your Kitchen
By RealSimple.com
The best time-saving tips, techniques, and to-do lists for polishing off the kitchen.
Kitchen Cleaning To-Do List
When cleaning the kitchen always start with the sink. "Keep it empty and shining," says Marla Cilley, author of Sink Reflections (Bantam, $15, amazon.com) and creator of FlyLady.net, a housekeeping website.
A sparkling sink becomes your kitchen's benchmark for hygiene and tidiness, inspiring you to load the dishwasher immediately and keep counters, refrigerator doors, and the stove top spick-and-span, too.
Every Day Kitchen Duties:
• Wipe down the sink after doing the dishes or loading the dishwasher (30 seconds).
• Wipe down the stove top (one minute).
• Wipe down the counters (one minute).
• Sweep, Swiffer, or vacuum the floor (two minutes).
Every Week :
• Mop the floor (five minutes).
• Wipe the cabinets, backsplashes, and appliances (10 minutes).
• Wash the dish rack (four minutes).
• Wipe the switch plates and phone (one minute).
• Wipe the inside of the garbage can (one minute).
Every Season:
• Empty and scrub down the inside of the refrigerator (30 minutes).
• Empty and clean the insides of the utensil drawers (15 minutes).
• Scrub down the cupboard exteriors (30 minutes).
• Clean the stove-hood filter (10 minutes).
• Perform "Shiny Sink 101". (See Below)
Photo: Mikkel Vang
Beat the Clock
In the time it takes to brew a pot of coffee, you can get through your "every day" list.
Be Prepared
Keep extra garbage bags (or a whole roll) at the bottom of your trash can and never again have to retrieve an apple core from a bagless bin.
Let It Shine
Streak-free stainless-steel surfaces are the Holy Grail of kitchen cleaning. Caldrea's olive oil–based Stainless Steel Spray promises to reduce fingerprints. (Starting at $12, Yahoo! Shopping)
Shiny Sink 101
1. Fill sink to the rim with very hot water; add one cup regular bleach. Soak for one hour.
2. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
3. Scrub with Ajax, Bon Ami, or baking soda.
4. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
5. Shine with Windex or another glass-cleaning spray. Dry thoroughly.
Cleaning Kitchen Odds and Ends
The quickest way to clean and disinfect these supplies is to put them in the dishwasher.
• Burner grids and knobs
• Brushes and combs
• Toothbrushes
• Plastic utensil organizer
• Refrigerator drawers
• Drain catch
• Sponges
• Dish rack
• Plastic toys (use discretion)
Photo: Mikkel Vang
Cleaning Supplies to Keep in the Kitchen
• Clorox Disinfecting Wipes (Starting at $4, Yahoo! Shopping): for all hard, nonwood surfaces. They leave a fresh, nonchemical scent.
• Windex Glass and Surface Wipes (Starting at $4.50, Yahoo! Shopping): for windows and chrome.
• Microfiber cloths and mops, such as StarFiber ($17 for mops, $3-$11 for cloths; starfibers.com) or Act Natural ($22 for mop, $10.50 for cloth; euronetusa.com: green alternatives to disposable wipes, or to chemical cleaners and paper towels. For cleaning all surfaces. Especially effective for polishing stainless steel.
• Bleach.
• Ajax ($2.70 drugstore.com), Bon Ami ($4, drugstore.com), or baking soda.
• Clorox ReadyMop (Starting at $16 for starter kit, Yahoo! Shopping): Wash the floor without a bucket. Works on most surfaces.
• Broom, Swiffer (Starting at $11 for starter kit, Yahoo! Shopping), or handheld vacuum: for crumb busting.
Quoted: http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/549/how-to-speed-clean-your-kitchen/
By RealSimple.com
The best time-saving tips, techniques, and to-do lists for polishing off the kitchen.
Kitchen Cleaning To-Do List
When cleaning the kitchen always start with the sink. "Keep it empty and shining," says Marla Cilley, author of Sink Reflections (Bantam, $15, amazon.com) and creator of FlyLady.net, a housekeeping website.
A sparkling sink becomes your kitchen's benchmark for hygiene and tidiness, inspiring you to load the dishwasher immediately and keep counters, refrigerator doors, and the stove top spick-and-span, too.
Every Day Kitchen Duties:
• Wipe down the sink after doing the dishes or loading the dishwasher (30 seconds).
• Wipe down the stove top (one minute).
• Wipe down the counters (one minute).
• Sweep, Swiffer, or vacuum the floor (two minutes).
Every Week :
• Mop the floor (five minutes).
• Wipe the cabinets, backsplashes, and appliances (10 minutes).
• Wash the dish rack (four minutes).
• Wipe the switch plates and phone (one minute).
• Wipe the inside of the garbage can (one minute).
Every Season:
• Empty and scrub down the inside of the refrigerator (30 minutes).
• Empty and clean the insides of the utensil drawers (15 minutes).
• Scrub down the cupboard exteriors (30 minutes).
• Clean the stove-hood filter (10 minutes).
• Perform "Shiny Sink 101". (See Below)
Photo: Mikkel Vang
Beat the Clock
In the time it takes to brew a pot of coffee, you can get through your "every day" list.
Be Prepared
Keep extra garbage bags (or a whole roll) at the bottom of your trash can and never again have to retrieve an apple core from a bagless bin.
Let It Shine
Streak-free stainless-steel surfaces are the Holy Grail of kitchen cleaning. Caldrea's olive oil–based Stainless Steel Spray promises to reduce fingerprints. (Starting at $12, Yahoo! Shopping)
Shiny Sink 101
1. Fill sink to the rim with very hot water; add one cup regular bleach. Soak for one hour.
2. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
3. Scrub with Ajax, Bon Ami, or baking soda.
4. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
5. Shine with Windex or another glass-cleaning spray. Dry thoroughly.
Cleaning Kitchen Odds and Ends
The quickest way to clean and disinfect these supplies is to put them in the dishwasher.
• Burner grids and knobs
• Brushes and combs
• Toothbrushes
• Plastic utensil organizer
• Refrigerator drawers
• Drain catch
• Sponges
• Dish rack
• Plastic toys (use discretion)
Photo: Mikkel Vang
Cleaning Supplies to Keep in the Kitchen
• Clorox Disinfecting Wipes (Starting at $4, Yahoo! Shopping): for all hard, nonwood surfaces. They leave a fresh, nonchemical scent.
• Windex Glass and Surface Wipes (Starting at $4.50, Yahoo! Shopping): for windows and chrome.
• Microfiber cloths and mops, such as StarFiber ($17 for mops, $3-$11 for cloths; starfibers.com) or Act Natural ($22 for mop, $10.50 for cloth; euronetusa.com: green alternatives to disposable wipes, or to chemical cleaners and paper towels. For cleaning all surfaces. Especially effective for polishing stainless steel.
• Bleach.
• Ajax ($2.70 drugstore.com), Bon Ami ($4, drugstore.com), or baking soda.
• Clorox ReadyMop (Starting at $16 for starter kit, Yahoo! Shopping): Wash the floor without a bucket. Works on most surfaces.
• Broom, Swiffer (Starting at $11 for starter kit, Yahoo! Shopping), or handheld vacuum: for crumb busting.
Quoted: http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/549/how-to-speed-clean-your-kitchen/
Solutions for five common dating ruts
Solutions for five common dating ruts
By Amy Spencer
It happens to the best of us: there you are, going on date after date, but none of them seem to be panning out. Maybe you’re just having a string of bad luck. But then again, sometimes — just sometimes — there’s more out there for you than you’ve noticed. Just because you’re keeping your eyes peeled for love doesn’t mean your heart is entirely open. If you can’t put your finger on why you’re still looking, check our list of the most common dating ruts. If you’re in one of them now, you have the power to change your outlook. Then, when someone with potential crosses your path, you’ll recognize it immediately and be ready to pounce!
Problem #1: You aren’t feeling instant sparks
Solution: Forget romance for a second and use the “friend” filter
When we go on a date with someone, we’re usually looking for some hit-us-over-the-head romantic chemistry, and when we don’t feel it, we think the date is a waste of time. But that’s not true! “If you have a strong negative reaction to someone you meet, that’s one thing, but a neutral or unsure reaction to a person can turn into chemistry down the line — and those who shut the door right away won’t get to find that out,” says Laurie Helgoe, Ph.D., author of the Boomer’s Guide to Dating (Again) and creator of Wakingdesire.com. So how can you be sure you’re open to later-blooming chemistry? Instead of using the “romance” filter that measures that love-at-first-sight chemistry, use the “friend” filter on your next date. Think about it: when you talk to a new person at a party, you don’t use small talk to search out what the two of you don’t have in common; you look for the things you do have in common. Try doing that on your next date. Instead of casting off your date too quickly (as in “Oh, he’s not into music,” or “Oh, she’s far too quiet compared to me”), hone in on whether you both love Family Guy reruns, have similar views on immigration, or can’t stand cheese plates. “The pursuit of friendship takes the pressure off by making the goal of the date learning about the person,” says Dr. Helgoe. Which, let’s be honest, is what a first date should be anyway. Because the more common ground you discover, the more likely chemistry can develop later.
Problem #2: Your dates look great on paper… but that’s it
Solution: Pay attention to how you’re feeling vs. your date’s résumé
So this person has a ton of wonderful qualities. That’s fine, for a start. But amazing chemistry isn’t just about finding someone you admire or think would be a great life partner. It’s about how you feel when you’re with that person. For instance, if the date you had last night was friendly and gregarious, but you felt more meek or quiet than usual in his or her shadow, that doesn’t make for strong chemistry. “You want to really feel like yourself — your happiest, most excited self,” explains Rhonda Findling, author of The Dating Cure. So on your next rendezvous, don’t merely ask, “Do I like this person?” Also ask yourself, “Do I like myself when I’m around this person?” And with an attitude like that, you just may recognize something brilliant very soon.
Problem #3: You don’t think this person has long-term potential
Solution: Try the “Carpe date-’em” trick
We single people are so afraid of “settling” that we can’t help looking ahead to the future in the first few minutes on a date. In the movie Something’s Gotta Give, Jack Nicholson asks Diane Keaton if she wants to go for a walk along the beach. She stammers and wavers until finally he says, “It’s just a walk, not a marriage proposal!” Try to think of your dates the same way. It’s not a long-term commitment... it’s a latte. Take it one step at a time. You know that saying, “carpe diem” — in Latin, it means “seize the day?” Instead of carpe diem, carpe date-’em! Go one a date for what it is, and don’t start obsessing about whether this person wants the same number of kids as you do. Going slow is fine.
Problem #4: You swear all the good ones are taken already
Solution: Look again… at people you usually pass over
Thanks to all the adorably hopeful romantic comedy movies they keep making, it’s sometimes hard to shake the thought that someone, somewhere, someday, will sweep you off your feet and move with you to an old chateau in France. But what about your neighbor, who hits the same coffee shop in the morning 30 seconds after you do? Like traffic accidents, love run-ins often happen close to home. You may be looking for a fairy tale, but remember that sometimes, the real fairy tale is finding someone when you’re taking out the trash. “Think about the happy ending in Bridget Jones’s Diary,” says Dr. Helgoe. “She didn’t end up with her sexy boss… she ended up with the guy she met at the family party wearing a reindeer sweater!” So keep your antenna up 24/7 and the next time you wonder, “Where are all the good single men and women?” remind yourself they may be standing next to you in line at Old Navy or Whole Foods.
Problem #5: You feel down about yourself and not date-worthy
Solution: Give yourself a pre-date pep rally
After traveling a few miles on the road to nobody special, it’s easy to start blaming yourself. You wind up going out and socializing or turning up on a date with a sad-sack attitude. (Hint: This is not a turn-on.) Nobody wants to date a downer, so it’s time to corral the cheerleaders in your life to remind you why you’re such a catch. One hour before your next date, give one of your cheerleaders a call. Maybe it’s an older brother who says, “Dude, you are a fine specimen. Go get ’em!” When I’m having a down dating spell, I email my gay friend (the Will to my Grace) my latest dating sob story just so he’ll write back, “Are you kidding? You’re the prettiest girl in the world! If I liked girls, I would have wanted to marry you five years ago!” Is it hokey? Yes. Does it work every time? You betcha.
Amy Spencer writes for Glamour, Maxim, Real Simple and other publications.
Interested in taking Dr. Helen Fisher’s personality test? Visit Chemistry.com today!
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=10287&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=730920
By Amy Spencer
It happens to the best of us: there you are, going on date after date, but none of them seem to be panning out. Maybe you’re just having a string of bad luck. But then again, sometimes — just sometimes — there’s more out there for you than you’ve noticed. Just because you’re keeping your eyes peeled for love doesn’t mean your heart is entirely open. If you can’t put your finger on why you’re still looking, check our list of the most common dating ruts. If you’re in one of them now, you have the power to change your outlook. Then, when someone with potential crosses your path, you’ll recognize it immediately and be ready to pounce!
Problem #1: You aren’t feeling instant sparks
Solution: Forget romance for a second and use the “friend” filter
When we go on a date with someone, we’re usually looking for some hit-us-over-the-head romantic chemistry, and when we don’t feel it, we think the date is a waste of time. But that’s not true! “If you have a strong negative reaction to someone you meet, that’s one thing, but a neutral or unsure reaction to a person can turn into chemistry down the line — and those who shut the door right away won’t get to find that out,” says Laurie Helgoe, Ph.D., author of the Boomer’s Guide to Dating (Again) and creator of Wakingdesire.com. So how can you be sure you’re open to later-blooming chemistry? Instead of using the “romance” filter that measures that love-at-first-sight chemistry, use the “friend” filter on your next date. Think about it: when you talk to a new person at a party, you don’t use small talk to search out what the two of you don’t have in common; you look for the things you do have in common. Try doing that on your next date. Instead of casting off your date too quickly (as in “Oh, he’s not into music,” or “Oh, she’s far too quiet compared to me”), hone in on whether you both love Family Guy reruns, have similar views on immigration, or can’t stand cheese plates. “The pursuit of friendship takes the pressure off by making the goal of the date learning about the person,” says Dr. Helgoe. Which, let’s be honest, is what a first date should be anyway. Because the more common ground you discover, the more likely chemistry can develop later.
Problem #2: Your dates look great on paper… but that’s it
Solution: Pay attention to how you’re feeling vs. your date’s résumé
So this person has a ton of wonderful qualities. That’s fine, for a start. But amazing chemistry isn’t just about finding someone you admire or think would be a great life partner. It’s about how you feel when you’re with that person. For instance, if the date you had last night was friendly and gregarious, but you felt more meek or quiet than usual in his or her shadow, that doesn’t make for strong chemistry. “You want to really feel like yourself — your happiest, most excited self,” explains Rhonda Findling, author of The Dating Cure. So on your next rendezvous, don’t merely ask, “Do I like this person?” Also ask yourself, “Do I like myself when I’m around this person?” And with an attitude like that, you just may recognize something brilliant very soon.
Problem #3: You don’t think this person has long-term potential
Solution: Try the “Carpe date-’em” trick
We single people are so afraid of “settling” that we can’t help looking ahead to the future in the first few minutes on a date. In the movie Something’s Gotta Give, Jack Nicholson asks Diane Keaton if she wants to go for a walk along the beach. She stammers and wavers until finally he says, “It’s just a walk, not a marriage proposal!” Try to think of your dates the same way. It’s not a long-term commitment... it’s a latte. Take it one step at a time. You know that saying, “carpe diem” — in Latin, it means “seize the day?” Instead of carpe diem, carpe date-’em! Go one a date for what it is, and don’t start obsessing about whether this person wants the same number of kids as you do. Going slow is fine.
Problem #4: You swear all the good ones are taken already
Solution: Look again… at people you usually pass over
Thanks to all the adorably hopeful romantic comedy movies they keep making, it’s sometimes hard to shake the thought that someone, somewhere, someday, will sweep you off your feet and move with you to an old chateau in France. But what about your neighbor, who hits the same coffee shop in the morning 30 seconds after you do? Like traffic accidents, love run-ins often happen close to home. You may be looking for a fairy tale, but remember that sometimes, the real fairy tale is finding someone when you’re taking out the trash. “Think about the happy ending in Bridget Jones’s Diary,” says Dr. Helgoe. “She didn’t end up with her sexy boss… she ended up with the guy she met at the family party wearing a reindeer sweater!” So keep your antenna up 24/7 and the next time you wonder, “Where are all the good single men and women?” remind yourself they may be standing next to you in line at Old Navy or Whole Foods.
Problem #5: You feel down about yourself and not date-worthy
Solution: Give yourself a pre-date pep rally
After traveling a few miles on the road to nobody special, it’s easy to start blaming yourself. You wind up going out and socializing or turning up on a date with a sad-sack attitude. (Hint: This is not a turn-on.) Nobody wants to date a downer, so it’s time to corral the cheerleaders in your life to remind you why you’re such a catch. One hour before your next date, give one of your cheerleaders a call. Maybe it’s an older brother who says, “Dude, you are a fine specimen. Go get ’em!” When I’m having a down dating spell, I email my gay friend (the Will to my Grace) my latest dating sob story just so he’ll write back, “Are you kidding? You’re the prettiest girl in the world! If I liked girls, I would have wanted to marry you five years ago!” Is it hokey? Yes. Does it work every time? You betcha.
Amy Spencer writes for Glamour, Maxim, Real Simple and other publications.
Interested in taking Dr. Helen Fisher’s personality test? Visit Chemistry.com today!
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=10287&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=730920
6 Career Decisions You'll Have to Make
6 Career Decisions You'll Have to Make
Tim Tyrell-Smith, On Wednesday 23 February 2011, 0:00 SGT
Are you starting a new career? If so, get ready for a constant flow of opportunities to come your way. And with opportunities come some big decisions.
How will you decide along the way?
While it's true your career and life build behind you, decisions on what to do come one at a time. Your choices will influence the depth at which you succeed, as well as how others see your judgment.
Here are some decisions you'll need to think through:
1. The positions you accept. While you can't chart out a perfect career, you can be smart about the roles you accept by having a rough idea of where you want to go and keeping a list of the positions and related experiences you'll need to get there.
Of course, there will always be temptations to veer from this path. But don't make the mistake of settling for the wrong job or job offer.
[See 14 Secrets to Career Change Success.]
2. The risks you take. Your best next position might be in another state or in another country. Are you willing to try something new? Early on, look to take risks which will expand your mind and expose you to new environments. Just worked for a really big company? Try a small one to see how it fits your personality and social needs.
Take calculated risks early. Try to succeed at something difficult, and you'll be rewarded with confidence to do something even more challenging next time.
3. The companies you work for. Look for target companies early in your career who will train you. For example, one might offer an on-the-job MBA program or the like in your industry. You'll be thankful you've been through a boot camp as your career progresses, especially if the training allows you exposure to other departments, functions, and locations.
Look for companies that are doing something unique and valuable, and that use a technology or capability that separates them from their competitors. When you work for innovative companies, it rubs off on you and your resume.
[See 4 Stages of a Successful Career.]
4. The managers you report to. You'll find managers out there who stub their toes every day on the foreheads of their employees. Others provide an incredible career experience for their employees. The good news is you can learn from both types.
Keep a notebook of actions you will and won't take as a manager, because it may be your turn someday. And don't spend too much time with a bad manager. This is one way you can maintain a positive attitude in your career and life.
5. The promotions you seek. Most of us want promotions before we're ready for them. It's OK to be aggressive if you know what you want, as long as aggression doesn't drip off you all the time.
Use obvious opportunities like performance reviews to highlight your key accomplishments for the year and confidently let your company and manager know you have big plans to keep the accomplishments coming.
[For more career advice, visit U.S. News Careers, or find us on Facebook or Twitter.]
6. The work friends you keep. Be the kind of employee who supports and backs up members of the team, and look for others with same mindset. The company you keep at work will affect the work you do, your ability to succeed on cross-functional teams and the influence you have inside the company.
To some extent, "we are who we hang out with." And who we eat with. And strategize with. What kind of an influencer are you?
Your work life does not need to be over-planned. It's best to allow for some spontaneity. But be ready for these decisions when they come, so you'll be able to think about them in the context of your longer-term career goals.
Tim Tyrell-Smith is founder of Tim's Strategy, a site that helps professionals succeed in job search, career and life strategy. Follow Tim on Twitter, @TimsStrategy, and share his 30 Ideas Book with job-seeking friends.
Quoted: http://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/6-Career-Decisions-Youll-Have-usnews-1682806860.html?x=0
Tim Tyrell-Smith, On Wednesday 23 February 2011, 0:00 SGT
Are you starting a new career? If so, get ready for a constant flow of opportunities to come your way. And with opportunities come some big decisions.
How will you decide along the way?
While it's true your career and life build behind you, decisions on what to do come one at a time. Your choices will influence the depth at which you succeed, as well as how others see your judgment.
Here are some decisions you'll need to think through:
1. The positions you accept. While you can't chart out a perfect career, you can be smart about the roles you accept by having a rough idea of where you want to go and keeping a list of the positions and related experiences you'll need to get there.
Of course, there will always be temptations to veer from this path. But don't make the mistake of settling for the wrong job or job offer.
[See 14 Secrets to Career Change Success.]
2. The risks you take. Your best next position might be in another state or in another country. Are you willing to try something new? Early on, look to take risks which will expand your mind and expose you to new environments. Just worked for a really big company? Try a small one to see how it fits your personality and social needs.
Take calculated risks early. Try to succeed at something difficult, and you'll be rewarded with confidence to do something even more challenging next time.
3. The companies you work for. Look for target companies early in your career who will train you. For example, one might offer an on-the-job MBA program or the like in your industry. You'll be thankful you've been through a boot camp as your career progresses, especially if the training allows you exposure to other departments, functions, and locations.
Look for companies that are doing something unique and valuable, and that use a technology or capability that separates them from their competitors. When you work for innovative companies, it rubs off on you and your resume.
[See 4 Stages of a Successful Career.]
4. The managers you report to. You'll find managers out there who stub their toes every day on the foreheads of their employees. Others provide an incredible career experience for their employees. The good news is you can learn from both types.
Keep a notebook of actions you will and won't take as a manager, because it may be your turn someday. And don't spend too much time with a bad manager. This is one way you can maintain a positive attitude in your career and life.
5. The promotions you seek. Most of us want promotions before we're ready for them. It's OK to be aggressive if you know what you want, as long as aggression doesn't drip off you all the time.
Use obvious opportunities like performance reviews to highlight your key accomplishments for the year and confidently let your company and manager know you have big plans to keep the accomplishments coming.
[For more career advice, visit U.S. News Careers, or find us on Facebook or Twitter.]
6. The work friends you keep. Be the kind of employee who supports and backs up members of the team, and look for others with same mindset. The company you keep at work will affect the work you do, your ability to succeed on cross-functional teams and the influence you have inside the company.
To some extent, "we are who we hang out with." And who we eat with. And strategize with. What kind of an influencer are you?
Your work life does not need to be over-planned. It's best to allow for some spontaneity. But be ready for these decisions when they come, so you'll be able to think about them in the context of your longer-term career goals.
Tim Tyrell-Smith is founder of Tim's Strategy, a site that helps professionals succeed in job search, career and life strategy. Follow Tim on Twitter, @TimsStrategy, and share his 30 Ideas Book with job-seeking friends.
Quoted: http://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/6-Career-Decisions-Youll-Have-usnews-1682806860.html?x=0
Faith to Endure
Lord, give us the faith to endure! Whatever might come against us, the Lord will deliver us. Do you believe it? No matter what we go through, praise and thanksgiving should never cease to overflow from our hearts and tongues.
If you and I are the true believers, we will be found worshipping God, serving Christ, and walking in the Spirit all the days of our lives. We will leave this world leaning upon our Beloved. We will often fall; but the Lord will raise us up. We will never cease to be plagued with sin; but we will never again be brought under the dominion of sin. True Christianity is not a spasmodic religion of convenience; it is life in Christ. Amid trials hard, temptations strong, and troubles constant, true faith is persevering faith.
Praise God that He grants us the faith to persevere. Ask God to continually build your faith, so that you might not turn away. Remain faithful, finish the race well and receive your crown of glory. Each day we arise, we are one day closer to the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. We might not know when He will return, but we can be ready.
Living Life
If you and I are the true believers, we will be found worshipping God, serving Christ, and walking in the Spirit all the days of our lives. We will leave this world leaning upon our Beloved. We will often fall; but the Lord will raise us up. We will never cease to be plagued with sin; but we will never again be brought under the dominion of sin. True Christianity is not a spasmodic religion of convenience; it is life in Christ. Amid trials hard, temptations strong, and troubles constant, true faith is persevering faith.
Praise God that He grants us the faith to persevere. Ask God to continually build your faith, so that you might not turn away. Remain faithful, finish the race well and receive your crown of glory. Each day we arise, we are one day closer to the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. We might not know when He will return, but we can be ready.
Living Life
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Spirit of Anger
"For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desire." (James 1:20)
When reminiscing on the past events of your life, most of the times you regret are probably the ones when you reacted or spoke out of anger. When you are angry, there is something about anger that takes control of your entire being. To that extent, anger is one of the most dangerous emotions that a human can feel. John Angell James says:
"[Anger has] fought against Christianity with poisoned arrows, and the gall of furious church squabbles has supplied the venom in which they have dipped their sarcasms, ironies, and jests. It is high time that the apostle's exhortation should be practically remember: 'Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behaviour.' All who contend for the faith should remember Paul's advice to Timothy: 'All the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth' (2 Tim. 2:24-25)."
Purse righteousness and flee from anger. Meditate on God's words and let your spirit remind you that God does not desire you to be angry or be held by its grip. You do have the power to overcome anger, if you so choose to exercise the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within you.
Living Life
When reminiscing on the past events of your life, most of the times you regret are probably the ones when you reacted or spoke out of anger. When you are angry, there is something about anger that takes control of your entire being. To that extent, anger is one of the most dangerous emotions that a human can feel. John Angell James says:
"[Anger has] fought against Christianity with poisoned arrows, and the gall of furious church squabbles has supplied the venom in which they have dipped their sarcasms, ironies, and jests. It is high time that the apostle's exhortation should be practically remember: 'Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behaviour.' All who contend for the faith should remember Paul's advice to Timothy: 'All the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth' (2 Tim. 2:24-25)."
Purse righteousness and flee from anger. Meditate on God's words and let your spirit remind you that God does not desire you to be angry or be held by its grip. You do have the power to overcome anger, if you so choose to exercise the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within you.
Living Life
Friday, February 25, 2011
Forever foods: 9 cooking staples that can outlast you.
Forever foods: 9 cooking staples that can outlast you.
by Yahoo!Green, on Tue Feb 22, 2011 7:07am PST
By Laura Moss, Mother Nature Network
Most weeks, you make a big grocery list and head to the store, prepared to buy loads of fresh food to make your family's meals. We often don't give a thought to stuff sitting in the kitchen cupboard or we automatically throw out anything that's been in there longer than we can remember.
But Janice Revell, co-founder of StillTasty.com, says "Look in your pantry and your cabinets and check whether the items really do need to go. You'll be shocked by what you really don't need to throw away."
So before you throw out that years-old sugar or replace that bottle of vanilla that's been gathering dust, consult this list of "forever foods." You may be surprised how many of your kitchen staples have a shelf life of decades — even after they've been opened.
1. Sugar
Regardless of whether your sugar is white, brown, or powdered, it will never spoil because it doesn't support bacterial growth.
The challenge with sugar is to keep it from hardening into chunks. To keep sugar fresh, store it in an airtight container or seal it in a plastic bag. If your brown sugar is more like a brown rock, you can revive it with just a minute in the microwave on low heat.
2. Pure vanilla extract
If you have pure vanilla extract in the back of the cupboard, there's no need to throw it out because it lasts forever. It may be more expensive than its imitation counterpart, but its shelf life certainly outweighs the extra cost.
Keep that vanilla flavor at its best by sealing the botttle after each use and storing it in a cool, dark place.
3. Rice
White, wild, jasmine, arborio and basmati rice all keep forever so there's no need to throw them out. Brown rice is the one exception because it has a higher oil content so store it in the refrigerator or freeze it to maximize its shelf life. Once you've opened a bag or box of rice, move it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag to keep it fresh.
4. Corn starch
You can thicken gravies and sauces for years with just one box of corn starch because it keeps indefinitely. Store this kitchen staple in a cool, dry area and be sure to reseal it tightly after each use.
5. Honey
Whether you use it in your tea, on your toast or as an alternative sweetener, that jar of pure honey is good forever. It may get grainy or change color, but it's still safe to eat — and delicious — because its antibiotic properties keep it from spoiling.
You can help keep it fresh by storing it in a cool area, and you can improve the quality of crystallized honey by placing the jar in warm water and stirring it until the grainy parts dissolve.
6. Salt
The contents of your salt shaker will never spoil, regardless of whether it's basic table salt or sea salt. Simply store it in a cool, dry place and salt will keep indefinitely.
7. Corn syrup
If you come across a years-old bottle of corn syrup in your pantry, don't throw it out. This sweetener keeps indefinitely as long as you keep it sealed and store it in a cool, dry area.
8. Maple syrup
What good are pancakes or waffles without maple syrup? Luckily, this flavorful syrup will never spoil if you refrigerate it or freeze it. For long-term storage, seal it in an airtight plastic container and freeze it.
"The freezer is such a useful tool that can really save you money because there are very few foods that don't freeze well," says Janice Revell of StillTasty.com.
9. Distilled white vinegar
This wonder product can be used for everything, from making marinades and salad dressings to cleaning house and doing laundry. But the best thing about distilled white vinegar is that it lasts for years. Simply close it tightly after each use and store the bottle in a cool, dark place.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/event/green/forever-foods-9-cooking-staples-that-can-outlast-you-2456896/
by Yahoo!Green, on Tue Feb 22, 2011 7:07am PST
By Laura Moss, Mother Nature Network
Most weeks, you make a big grocery list and head to the store, prepared to buy loads of fresh food to make your family's meals. We often don't give a thought to stuff sitting in the kitchen cupboard or we automatically throw out anything that's been in there longer than we can remember.
But Janice Revell, co-founder of StillTasty.com, says "Look in your pantry and your cabinets and check whether the items really do need to go. You'll be shocked by what you really don't need to throw away."
So before you throw out that years-old sugar or replace that bottle of vanilla that's been gathering dust, consult this list of "forever foods." You may be surprised how many of your kitchen staples have a shelf life of decades — even after they've been opened.
1. Sugar
Regardless of whether your sugar is white, brown, or powdered, it will never spoil because it doesn't support bacterial growth.
The challenge with sugar is to keep it from hardening into chunks. To keep sugar fresh, store it in an airtight container or seal it in a plastic bag. If your brown sugar is more like a brown rock, you can revive it with just a minute in the microwave on low heat.
2. Pure vanilla extract
If you have pure vanilla extract in the back of the cupboard, there's no need to throw it out because it lasts forever. It may be more expensive than its imitation counterpart, but its shelf life certainly outweighs the extra cost.
Keep that vanilla flavor at its best by sealing the botttle after each use and storing it in a cool, dark place.
3. Rice
White, wild, jasmine, arborio and basmati rice all keep forever so there's no need to throw them out. Brown rice is the one exception because it has a higher oil content so store it in the refrigerator or freeze it to maximize its shelf life. Once you've opened a bag or box of rice, move it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag to keep it fresh.
4. Corn starch
You can thicken gravies and sauces for years with just one box of corn starch because it keeps indefinitely. Store this kitchen staple in a cool, dry area and be sure to reseal it tightly after each use.
5. Honey
Whether you use it in your tea, on your toast or as an alternative sweetener, that jar of pure honey is good forever. It may get grainy or change color, but it's still safe to eat — and delicious — because its antibiotic properties keep it from spoiling.
You can help keep it fresh by storing it in a cool area, and you can improve the quality of crystallized honey by placing the jar in warm water and stirring it until the grainy parts dissolve.
6. Salt
The contents of your salt shaker will never spoil, regardless of whether it's basic table salt or sea salt. Simply store it in a cool, dry place and salt will keep indefinitely.
7. Corn syrup
If you come across a years-old bottle of corn syrup in your pantry, don't throw it out. This sweetener keeps indefinitely as long as you keep it sealed and store it in a cool, dry area.
8. Maple syrup
What good are pancakes or waffles without maple syrup? Luckily, this flavorful syrup will never spoil if you refrigerate it or freeze it. For long-term storage, seal it in an airtight plastic container and freeze it.
"The freezer is such a useful tool that can really save you money because there are very few foods that don't freeze well," says Janice Revell of StillTasty.com.
9. Distilled white vinegar
This wonder product can be used for everything, from making marinades and salad dressings to cleaning house and doing laundry. But the best thing about distilled white vinegar is that it lasts for years. Simply close it tightly after each use and store the bottle in a cool, dark place.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/event/green/forever-foods-9-cooking-staples-that-can-outlast-you-2456896/
5 signs she’s into you
5 signs she’s into you
By Cate Mitchell
You and a pretty redhead are tucked away in a corner table at that impossible-to-get-into new French bistro. And lo and behold, you notice she’s laughing at your jokes, twirling her hair, and giving other crystal-clear signs she’s into you. Or is she? Problem is, it can be hard to tell sometimes whether a woman is truly interested or just going through the motions. But luckily, there are plenty of ways to tell the difference. The signs below are the real deal.
1. She touches herself up
If she’s excusing herself to the restroom between courses, it’s doubtful she has a weak bladder. Nope, more likely she’s in there freshening up her makeup or making sure her hair is in place... all for you. “If she’s into you, she’ll be concerned with how she looks,” says Alison James, author of the forthcoming Better Off Wed? “Or, if she’s at the table, she’ll be fixing her shirt or brushing her hair back, maybe checking that her bra strap isn’t showing or adjusting her necklace — the kind of stuff you do when you’re worried about your appearance.”
2. She asks about your family
“When a woman likes a guy, she doesn’t want to get to know just him,” says Jillian Straus, author of Unhooked Generation: The Truth About Why We’re Still Single. “She wants to know about his family and friends — she’s looking for clues about what life with him would be like.” Indeed, especially if you’ve been set up or are on a blind date and know very little about each other, your relationship with your family says a lot about you — and a woman interested in you won’t hesitate to probe. “I think family is very revealing about a person’s personality,” says Tina Andreadis, 35, of New York City. “If he’s close with his family, it shows that he’s probably a warm person who values relationships and who would want a family of his own. If I am not interested in him, I won’t even ask because I just don’t care.”
3. She’s attentive
Let’s put it this way: no matter how busy she is, she’s not whipping out her BlackBerry if she’s interested in what you have to say. “If she’s not checking her watch, email or cell phone, it’s just one more sign that she’s paying attention to you,” says James. “When you like a guy, you’re hanging on his every word. When you don’t, you’re distracted easily.” Same goes for any preoccupations she has with the immediate environment, whether she’s people-watching or admiring the restaurant décor or even the food. If she’s saying things like, “This restaurant is beautiful. Hey, doesn’t that girl over there look like Marisa Tomei?” she may be enjoying herself, but not necessarily because you’re there.
4. She’s touchy-feely
If you find your date engaging in a little physical contact along with witty banter, chances are you’ve made a very good impression. From tapping your knee to emphasize a point or touching your forearm to get your attention, if a woman’s attracted to you, she won’t hesitate to reach out and let you know. Megan, 35, from New York City, employs this trick with guys she finds attractive. “I pretend to steady myself when I don’t need to be steadied,” she says. “When I’m climbing onto a stool, I’ll grab onto his shoulder or leg when I clearly don’t need to,” she laughs.
5. The date lasts longer than you expected
Ask any woman desperate to wind down a date, and she’ll tell you she skips dessert or declines an after-dinner stroll. Naturally, then, if she’s having a great time and doesn’t want to see you go, she’ll gladly take the waiter’s suggestion and try the chocolate cake, or join you in the cab ride home. And if you’ve agreed to meet for coffee and after a few sips she takes you up on your offer of dinner? That’s a bright green light, my friend. “Only if I’m into the guy will I agree to go to dinner if he suggests it on a ‘meet for coffee’ date,” says Diana, a 38-year-old from Boston. “If I’m meeting a guy and I’m not into him, I’m definitely not going to agree to get food after.”
So now that you know the signs that she’s really enjoying your time together, use them! Ask her for another date, have a goodnight hug or smooch... and things should move in a most positive direction.
Cate Mitchell is a freelance writer in New York City.
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=6687&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=730915
By Cate Mitchell
You and a pretty redhead are tucked away in a corner table at that impossible-to-get-into new French bistro. And lo and behold, you notice she’s laughing at your jokes, twirling her hair, and giving other crystal-clear signs she’s into you. Or is she? Problem is, it can be hard to tell sometimes whether a woman is truly interested or just going through the motions. But luckily, there are plenty of ways to tell the difference. The signs below are the real deal.
1. She touches herself up
If she’s excusing herself to the restroom between courses, it’s doubtful she has a weak bladder. Nope, more likely she’s in there freshening up her makeup or making sure her hair is in place... all for you. “If she’s into you, she’ll be concerned with how she looks,” says Alison James, author of the forthcoming Better Off Wed? “Or, if she’s at the table, she’ll be fixing her shirt or brushing her hair back, maybe checking that her bra strap isn’t showing or adjusting her necklace — the kind of stuff you do when you’re worried about your appearance.”
2. She asks about your family
“When a woman likes a guy, she doesn’t want to get to know just him,” says Jillian Straus, author of Unhooked Generation: The Truth About Why We’re Still Single. “She wants to know about his family and friends — she’s looking for clues about what life with him would be like.” Indeed, especially if you’ve been set up or are on a blind date and know very little about each other, your relationship with your family says a lot about you — and a woman interested in you won’t hesitate to probe. “I think family is very revealing about a person’s personality,” says Tina Andreadis, 35, of New York City. “If he’s close with his family, it shows that he’s probably a warm person who values relationships and who would want a family of his own. If I am not interested in him, I won’t even ask because I just don’t care.”
3. She’s attentive
Let’s put it this way: no matter how busy she is, she’s not whipping out her BlackBerry if she’s interested in what you have to say. “If she’s not checking her watch, email or cell phone, it’s just one more sign that she’s paying attention to you,” says James. “When you like a guy, you’re hanging on his every word. When you don’t, you’re distracted easily.” Same goes for any preoccupations she has with the immediate environment, whether she’s people-watching or admiring the restaurant décor or even the food. If she’s saying things like, “This restaurant is beautiful. Hey, doesn’t that girl over there look like Marisa Tomei?” she may be enjoying herself, but not necessarily because you’re there.
4. She’s touchy-feely
If you find your date engaging in a little physical contact along with witty banter, chances are you’ve made a very good impression. From tapping your knee to emphasize a point or touching your forearm to get your attention, if a woman’s attracted to you, she won’t hesitate to reach out and let you know. Megan, 35, from New York City, employs this trick with guys she finds attractive. “I pretend to steady myself when I don’t need to be steadied,” she says. “When I’m climbing onto a stool, I’ll grab onto his shoulder or leg when I clearly don’t need to,” she laughs.
5. The date lasts longer than you expected
Ask any woman desperate to wind down a date, and she’ll tell you she skips dessert or declines an after-dinner stroll. Naturally, then, if she’s having a great time and doesn’t want to see you go, she’ll gladly take the waiter’s suggestion and try the chocolate cake, or join you in the cab ride home. And if you’ve agreed to meet for coffee and after a few sips she takes you up on your offer of dinner? That’s a bright green light, my friend. “Only if I’m into the guy will I agree to go to dinner if he suggests it on a ‘meet for coffee’ date,” says Diana, a 38-year-old from Boston. “If I’m meeting a guy and I’m not into him, I’m definitely not going to agree to get food after.”
So now that you know the signs that she’s really enjoying your time together, use them! Ask her for another date, have a goodnight hug or smooch... and things should move in a most positive direction.
Cate Mitchell is a freelance writer in New York City.
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=6687&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=730915
CONFESSIONS OF AN APPLE STORE EMPLOYEE: We Lie To Customers All The Time
CONFESSIONS OF AN APPLE STORE EMPLOYEE: We Lie To Customers All The Time
Posted Feb 24, 2011 11:16am EST by Pascal Emmanuel Gobry in Media, Products and Trends
Related: aapl, ^ixic, qqq, xlk, goog, msft, intc
Provided by the Business Insider:
An anonymous Apple store employee pulled back the curtain behind the company's impressive retail operation. He talked to Popular Mechanics about what it's like to be an Apple footsoldier on a day to day basis.
Here's what we learned:
On product launch day, all Apple store employees watch the Keynote together. They don't know anything ahead of time, of course.
Customers can be shockingly rude.
Drug dealers and Chinese resellers like their iPhones and iPads. They will use fake IDs and fake credit cards and all sorts of tricks to buy Apple products.
Sales people aren't paid on commission, but they're still encouraged to sell hard. Each employee's sales number is put up for the employees to see where they rank, and selling is a way to get a promotion.
Apple store employees dream to be a genius. The coolest thing is to be at the Genius Bar, and the other Apple store employees work hard and sell hard because they want to be made a genius.
Showing up to work late won't get you fired -- talking off hand about the next iPad WILL (even though you don't know anything about the next iPad).
People will use the public computers for all sorts of stuff. Teenagers will blast Britney Spears really loud and start dancing. And of course pranksters keep changing the Macs' language to Korean or Russian.
Employees lie to customers. They tell consumers that unlocking their iPhone will brick them -- make the phone as usless as a brick -- and that T-Mobile will fry the antenna.
Quoted: http://finance.yahoo.com/tech-ticker/confessions-of-an-apple-store-employee-we-lie-to-customers-all-the-time-535959.html
Posted Feb 24, 2011 11:16am EST by Pascal Emmanuel Gobry in Media, Products and Trends
Related: aapl, ^ixic, qqq, xlk, goog, msft, intc
Provided by the Business Insider:
An anonymous Apple store employee pulled back the curtain behind the company's impressive retail operation. He talked to Popular Mechanics about what it's like to be an Apple footsoldier on a day to day basis.
Here's what we learned:
On product launch day, all Apple store employees watch the Keynote together. They don't know anything ahead of time, of course.
Customers can be shockingly rude.
Drug dealers and Chinese resellers like their iPhones and iPads. They will use fake IDs and fake credit cards and all sorts of tricks to buy Apple products.
Sales people aren't paid on commission, but they're still encouraged to sell hard. Each employee's sales number is put up for the employees to see where they rank, and selling is a way to get a promotion.
Apple store employees dream to be a genius. The coolest thing is to be at the Genius Bar, and the other Apple store employees work hard and sell hard because they want to be made a genius.
Showing up to work late won't get you fired -- talking off hand about the next iPad WILL (even though you don't know anything about the next iPad).
People will use the public computers for all sorts of stuff. Teenagers will blast Britney Spears really loud and start dancing. And of course pranksters keep changing the Macs' language to Korean or Russian.
Employees lie to customers. They tell consumers that unlocking their iPhone will brick them -- make the phone as usless as a brick -- and that T-Mobile will fry the antenna.
Quoted: http://finance.yahoo.com/tech-ticker/confessions-of-an-apple-store-employee-we-lie-to-customers-all-the-time-535959.html
God's Promises
How much weight does the word "promise" hold with you? Depending on how you grew up, you might never use the word because you feel the gravity of its implications and other might use it frequently because whether you keep it or not, it does not make much of a difference to you. Most of the time, however, we remember the times when someone broke their promise to us and not when they kept it. Unfortunately, the mistake that people have made in our lives are projected unto our God, Who is faithful to keep His promises. For instance, when God promises to provide for our needs, He means it.
It is a truth, then, which will stand forever, that "God will supply all our need, according to his riches in glory, by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). If any of His people lived and died without their spiritual need being supplied (I say it with all reverence), God would forfeit His word. But He will never allow anyone to charge Him with that; He will never let anyone say that He was not faithful to His promise.
God is always faithful to keep His promises. He is never hasty with His words. Place your trust in the God Whose faithfulness none can fathom, and believe in Him because He will not disappoint you.
Living Life
It is a truth, then, which will stand forever, that "God will supply all our need, according to his riches in glory, by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). If any of His people lived and died without their spiritual need being supplied (I say it with all reverence), God would forfeit His word. But He will never allow anyone to charge Him with that; He will never let anyone say that He was not faithful to His promise.
God is always faithful to keep His promises. He is never hasty with His words. Place your trust in the God Whose faithfulness none can fathom, and believe in Him because He will not disappoint you.
Living Life
Thursday, February 24, 2011
19 Keys to a Happy Relationship
19 Keys to a Happy Relationship
Written By: Gabby Reece
As I ponder the years of my marriage to my husband of 13 years, I really get to thinking on why we stay together and what makes it work for us? I chose a partner that I can’t control, and who has really taught me about love, forgiveness, and not to take things personally. I don’t make it a habit to give advice but I will share the things that work for us and I think are helpful in all relationships.
1. Respect
I never talk to my husband in a snippy or bossy way. One he wouldn’t accept that from me, and two years ago he told me he had a Mother and she passed away. Got that message loud and clear.
2. Love
My husband is very loving and complimentary to me. I feel this type of attention creates a very healthy male/female dynamic between us. He is at no point my brother. In moments we are friends, but our roles are pretty defined in the male and the female.
3. Sex
I don’t care how long you have been together, or how many children you have, or how busy you are; make time for sex. No offense to men, but in a beautiful way they are so easy to please. Get off their back, let them have fun, lift them up, feed them, good sleep, and good loving. It’s funny when I was in my 20′s with Laird and had a ton more time to have sex I didn’t. I kept waiting for it to just happen. Now, with kids and chaos I’m willing to schedule that time and not compromise that precious intimate time with my husband.
4. Separate and Together Lives
We have our own lives that collide into our life together with one another and our family. It’s a blend of maintaining your individuality all the while being part of someone else.
5. Truth
Doesn’t mean we haven’t made mistakes, but the truth has always been shared. Over the years I have learned to be less afraid of the truth (even when it’s scary).
6. Communication
Be kind but get it out there.
7. Do Your Part
I take care of my job (whatever that is in our agreement, food, house stuff, kid details etc.) and my husband holds up his end of the deal (outside house stuff, anything slimy, the fun etc.).
8. Trust
I know with my husband he will tell me if he needs to go somewhere else. I’m not going to babysit or hold my breath. Who can live like that? I always say I live on a “need to know basis.” If I need to know he will tell me.
Take our poll! Have you ever felt like cheating on your man?
9. Similar Values
We are very different (he is emotional I am analytical), but when it comes to money, how to handle things, raising children, religion etc. we are pretty much on the same page.
10. Leave Them Alone
Don’t hound your guy. If he is a good egg then just let him be, and give him some support. He will end up wanting to spend more time with you than if you are always on him about “why are you playing golf, and don’t you want to be together?” They will run.
11. Appreciate
If you have a partner you really love than it’s important to appreciate them and let them know that you are excited to be with them.
12. Take it One Day at a Time
If you asked me to think about “forever” I may jump off the cliff, but since all we have is today why not work on your relationship each day.
13. Be Yourself
I can remember in the beginning of my marriage walking around on egg shells when my husband, who can get into intense moods was “in a mood.” Yeah, ask me how well that went when after a few years of that we were almost divorced. Speak your mind and be yourself. Of course there are more opportune moments than others to discuss things, but that is the art of a relationship. Don’t change to be with someone because in time you will end up breaking out.
14. Have Some Fun
Pretty straight forward.
15. Say Sorry
If you are wrong, be quick to admit it. Never let your pride get in the way of your happiness.
16. Forgive
Since no one is perfect. I once heard a quote about “it’s good to have a short memory and a lot of forgiveness in a relationship.”
17. Two People Can Be Right at the Same Time
Not all arguments have to have a winner and a loser. It’s quite possible that both of you can be right at the same time, and still disagree. In the end who cares who is right so long as the situation can get worked out where both parties feel happy or at least heard.
18. Don’t Take Things Personal
I went through a crisis, my husband went through a crisis, I’m in a mood, he gets in moods, but it’s not always a reflection on how much the other person loves the other or how much they desire to be in the relationship. Women, we need to not take things so personal. I say this to myself as well.
19. Make Yourself Happy
I’m sure there are a ton more but the last and most important thing I have learned is MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY. No person “completes you,” and if you have a shot at being in a happy relationship chances are that increases if you are happy yourself.
If you have love take care of it, if you don’t yet it will find you, and I wish all of you great health, happiness, and peace.
Source: gabbydaily.com
Quoted: http://www.hybridmom.com/articles/family-parenting/marriage-divorce/19-keys-happy-relationship?page=1
Written By: Gabby Reece
As I ponder the years of my marriage to my husband of 13 years, I really get to thinking on why we stay together and what makes it work for us? I chose a partner that I can’t control, and who has really taught me about love, forgiveness, and not to take things personally. I don’t make it a habit to give advice but I will share the things that work for us and I think are helpful in all relationships.
1. Respect
I never talk to my husband in a snippy or bossy way. One he wouldn’t accept that from me, and two years ago he told me he had a Mother and she passed away. Got that message loud and clear.
2. Love
My husband is very loving and complimentary to me. I feel this type of attention creates a very healthy male/female dynamic between us. He is at no point my brother. In moments we are friends, but our roles are pretty defined in the male and the female.
3. Sex
I don’t care how long you have been together, or how many children you have, or how busy you are; make time for sex. No offense to men, but in a beautiful way they are so easy to please. Get off their back, let them have fun, lift them up, feed them, good sleep, and good loving. It’s funny when I was in my 20′s with Laird and had a ton more time to have sex I didn’t. I kept waiting for it to just happen. Now, with kids and chaos I’m willing to schedule that time and not compromise that precious intimate time with my husband.
4. Separate and Together Lives
We have our own lives that collide into our life together with one another and our family. It’s a blend of maintaining your individuality all the while being part of someone else.
5. Truth
Doesn’t mean we haven’t made mistakes, but the truth has always been shared. Over the years I have learned to be less afraid of the truth (even when it’s scary).
6. Communication
Be kind but get it out there.
7. Do Your Part
I take care of my job (whatever that is in our agreement, food, house stuff, kid details etc.) and my husband holds up his end of the deal (outside house stuff, anything slimy, the fun etc.).
8. Trust
I know with my husband he will tell me if he needs to go somewhere else. I’m not going to babysit or hold my breath. Who can live like that? I always say I live on a “need to know basis.” If I need to know he will tell me.
Take our poll! Have you ever felt like cheating on your man?
9. Similar Values
We are very different (he is emotional I am analytical), but when it comes to money, how to handle things, raising children, religion etc. we are pretty much on the same page.
10. Leave Them Alone
Don’t hound your guy. If he is a good egg then just let him be, and give him some support. He will end up wanting to spend more time with you than if you are always on him about “why are you playing golf, and don’t you want to be together?” They will run.
11. Appreciate
If you have a partner you really love than it’s important to appreciate them and let them know that you are excited to be with them.
12. Take it One Day at a Time
If you asked me to think about “forever” I may jump off the cliff, but since all we have is today why not work on your relationship each day.
13. Be Yourself
I can remember in the beginning of my marriage walking around on egg shells when my husband, who can get into intense moods was “in a mood.” Yeah, ask me how well that went when after a few years of that we were almost divorced. Speak your mind and be yourself. Of course there are more opportune moments than others to discuss things, but that is the art of a relationship. Don’t change to be with someone because in time you will end up breaking out.
14. Have Some Fun
Pretty straight forward.
15. Say Sorry
If you are wrong, be quick to admit it. Never let your pride get in the way of your happiness.
16. Forgive
Since no one is perfect. I once heard a quote about “it’s good to have a short memory and a lot of forgiveness in a relationship.”
17. Two People Can Be Right at the Same Time
Not all arguments have to have a winner and a loser. It’s quite possible that both of you can be right at the same time, and still disagree. In the end who cares who is right so long as the situation can get worked out where both parties feel happy or at least heard.
18. Don’t Take Things Personal
I went through a crisis, my husband went through a crisis, I’m in a mood, he gets in moods, but it’s not always a reflection on how much the other person loves the other or how much they desire to be in the relationship. Women, we need to not take things so personal. I say this to myself as well.
19. Make Yourself Happy
I’m sure there are a ton more but the last and most important thing I have learned is MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY. No person “completes you,” and if you have a shot at being in a happy relationship chances are that increases if you are happy yourself.
If you have love take care of it, if you don’t yet it will find you, and I wish all of you great health, happiness, and peace.
Source: gabbydaily.com
Quoted: http://www.hybridmom.com/articles/family-parenting/marriage-divorce/19-keys-happy-relationship?page=1
Top 8 Things that Will Ruin Your Relationship
Top 8 Things that Will Ruin Your Relationship
Written By: Dr. Patty Ann Tublin
1. Money: #1 issue couples fight about – money
- Money is valued differently – one is a “saver” the other a “spender”
- Money represents different things for each person in the relationship – know the differences and respect them. Your partner’s view is not “stupid” or “ridiculous”
- Communicate your individual attitudes and values about money to each other
- Keep money in its proper perspective in your relationship – money represents a commodity – not love
2. Lack of Effective Communication
- Just because we have said something doesn’t mean we have communicated anything
- The SINGLE biggest issue with communication – the false belief or impression that it has taken place
- Must have “active listening” for effective communication, i.e., the ability to listen to what your partner has to say without your own “hidden agenda”
- Choose words carefully and with sensitivity – the more emotionally charged the topic of discussion- the more important it is to do this
3. Commitment
- Lack of commitment to the value of yourself
- Lack of commitment to your partner
- Lack of real commitment to your relationship
- Are you committed enough to all of the above to do what it takes to make your relationship work?
- Do you provide the level of commitment to your partner that you are asking from them?
4. Failure to Prioritize Relationship
- Do you put the time and effort required that shows your relationship is the most important thing in your life?
- Schedule date night/ mornings/afternoon – anytime that is exclusively committed to your relationship – no interruptions/no excuses
5. Technology
- Keeps up connected 24/7 to everyone and everything- to the point of distraction when we are with our partner
- Designated a “no- technology” zone home in your home or leave your iphone in your car while out to dinner
6. Multi-tasking
- We are never giving our relationship the undivided attention it requires
- We are talking with our partner while on the computer or while texting or im- ing or taking care of the kids, etc
- No exclusivity
7. Children
- The inmates should not be running the insane asylum (LOL!!)
- The health of the family and the health of the children is predicated upon the health of the parent’s relationship
- Greatest gift you can give your children is for their parents’ to love and respect each other – unequivocally!
8. Extended Families
- Inappropriate boundaries
- In-laws “telling” grown children how to behave with each other/ how to parent/giving guilt trips because they do not see them “enough”.
Dr. Patty Ann is a world-renowned relationship expert and a licensed psychotherapist who has helped hundreds of people learn how to increase romance and happiness in their relationships. She has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, a Master’s Degree in Nursing, and is a Registered Nurse. Dr. Patty Ann writes a weekly relationship advice ezine called “Two Hearts Beating As One™” and a relationship advice blog at drpattyann.com/blog. Dr. Patty Ann has been happily married for 25 years while raising four children together with her husband.
Quoted: http://www.hybridmom.com/articles/family-parenting/marriage-divorce/top-8-things-will-ruin-your-relationship?page=2
Written By: Dr. Patty Ann Tublin
1. Money: #1 issue couples fight about – money
- Money is valued differently – one is a “saver” the other a “spender”
- Money represents different things for each person in the relationship – know the differences and respect them. Your partner’s view is not “stupid” or “ridiculous”
- Communicate your individual attitudes and values about money to each other
- Keep money in its proper perspective in your relationship – money represents a commodity – not love
2. Lack of Effective Communication
- Just because we have said something doesn’t mean we have communicated anything
- The SINGLE biggest issue with communication – the false belief or impression that it has taken place
- Must have “active listening” for effective communication, i.e., the ability to listen to what your partner has to say without your own “hidden agenda”
- Choose words carefully and with sensitivity – the more emotionally charged the topic of discussion- the more important it is to do this
3. Commitment
- Lack of commitment to the value of yourself
- Lack of commitment to your partner
- Lack of real commitment to your relationship
- Are you committed enough to all of the above to do what it takes to make your relationship work?
- Do you provide the level of commitment to your partner that you are asking from them?
4. Failure to Prioritize Relationship
- Do you put the time and effort required that shows your relationship is the most important thing in your life?
- Schedule date night/ mornings/afternoon – anytime that is exclusively committed to your relationship – no interruptions/no excuses
5. Technology
- Keeps up connected 24/7 to everyone and everything- to the point of distraction when we are with our partner
- Designated a “no- technology” zone home in your home or leave your iphone in your car while out to dinner
6. Multi-tasking
- We are never giving our relationship the undivided attention it requires
- We are talking with our partner while on the computer or while texting or im- ing or taking care of the kids, etc
- No exclusivity
7. Children
- The inmates should not be running the insane asylum (LOL!!)
- The health of the family and the health of the children is predicated upon the health of the parent’s relationship
- Greatest gift you can give your children is for their parents’ to love and respect each other – unequivocally!
8. Extended Families
- Inappropriate boundaries
- In-laws “telling” grown children how to behave with each other/ how to parent/giving guilt trips because they do not see them “enough”.
Dr. Patty Ann is a world-renowned relationship expert and a licensed psychotherapist who has helped hundreds of people learn how to increase romance and happiness in their relationships. She has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, a Master’s Degree in Nursing, and is a Registered Nurse. Dr. Patty Ann writes a weekly relationship advice ezine called “Two Hearts Beating As One™” and a relationship advice blog at drpattyann.com/blog. Dr. Patty Ann has been happily married for 25 years while raising four children together with her husband.
Quoted: http://www.hybridmom.com/articles/family-parenting/marriage-divorce/top-8-things-will-ruin-your-relationship?page=2
10 Reasons Couples Therapy May Not Work For You.
10 Reasons Couples Therapy May Not Work For You.
by HybridMom, on Fri Feb 18, 2011 6:34am PST
Couples come in every week for therapy. Many come in with expectations of gaining insight, some are dragged in by their spouses, and some come in out of frustration and wanting out of a bad marriage. The reasons that bring people in are not as important as the couple’s attitude. If couples see their marriage as a work in progress and come to therapy to work past difficulties, they usually will be successful. Therapy is expensive and can be a waste of time. It can also be the single best thing you ever did for your relationship. When a marriage or a person is in psychological distress, the friend with the best intentions will usually say, “Why don’t you go see a therapist?” The friend is saying this because they love their friend, and they don’t know what else to say or advise their friend to do. There are times when a couple should not go to therapy; sometimes therapy may be counterproductive, putting the couple in financial distress and deeper frustration that nothing is going to change.
If you are experiencing any of these, therapy may be a greater strain than beneficial:
1. If you are only going to therapy to say you did it. A spouse who already has a new significant other and wants to ease their guilt by saying they went to therapy should save their money. They will need it in court.
2. Couples who are trying to fool the therapist. If you pay therapists to listen to your story, but the story isn’t true, I am not sure who is wasting their time more.
Knowing When To Let Go of a Marriage
3. If you or your partner hates the therapist, it may make you less successful with therapy. Keep shopping until you find one you both are comfortable with and respect.
4. If you go to therapy and engage, but don’t do your assignments, you won’t be successful long term. The assignments are part of the process. It leads to better understanding of yourself and your partner.
5. If you don’t prioritize the therapy and schedule it in to your life, then you will miss appointments. We choose what is valuable by our actions. You are telling your spouse and therapist that this isn’t important. Why continue to waste your money?
Top 8 Things that Will Ruin Your Relationship
6. If you are inflexible with your thinking and unwilling to make changes, you are wasting your money with therapy. Therapy is all about changing one’s self. If you think you are perfect and don’t need to make changes, then therapy most likely will not be effective.
7. If you don’t believe in therapy or you think its voodoo, most likely it will not work for yu. Couples must embrace the therapy and believe it will help them restore communication.
8. If you have a girlfriend or boyfriend and are in marital therapy with your spouse, get rid of the girlfriend/boyfriend first. Otherwise therapy will not be successful.
Clues Your Man Is Cheating
9. If you go to therapy, but let your spouse do all the talking, therapy most likely will not be successful. The therapist needs to hear from both of you about how you feel. If you have difficulty expressing yourself with words, ask the therapist if you can write what you want to say. The therapist wants to help you communicate. They don’t care if you talk, write, or act out your emotions.
What Happens When Your Man Disappoints You?
10. If you have great difficulty laughing at yourself, therapy is going to be very difficult. You may still be successful, but it won’t be as enjoyable.
Therapy is one of the greatest opportunities a couple can venture into. It offers an atmosphere of complete honesty, confidentiality, and openness. Where else can you go and talk candidly about you as a couple and get objective guidance? Just remember therapists cannot read your mind. When a therapist joins your marriage team, you should feel supported enough to take risks. You should be able to be totally open and honest with your partner with the intention of creating the best marriage possible.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/sex/10-reasons-couples-therapy-may-not-work-for-you-2455644/
by HybridMom, on Fri Feb 18, 2011 6:34am PST
Couples come in every week for therapy. Many come in with expectations of gaining insight, some are dragged in by their spouses, and some come in out of frustration and wanting out of a bad marriage. The reasons that bring people in are not as important as the couple’s attitude. If couples see their marriage as a work in progress and come to therapy to work past difficulties, they usually will be successful. Therapy is expensive and can be a waste of time. It can also be the single best thing you ever did for your relationship. When a marriage or a person is in psychological distress, the friend with the best intentions will usually say, “Why don’t you go see a therapist?” The friend is saying this because they love their friend, and they don’t know what else to say or advise their friend to do. There are times when a couple should not go to therapy; sometimes therapy may be counterproductive, putting the couple in financial distress and deeper frustration that nothing is going to change.
If you are experiencing any of these, therapy may be a greater strain than beneficial:
1. If you are only going to therapy to say you did it. A spouse who already has a new significant other and wants to ease their guilt by saying they went to therapy should save their money. They will need it in court.
2. Couples who are trying to fool the therapist. If you pay therapists to listen to your story, but the story isn’t true, I am not sure who is wasting their time more.
Knowing When To Let Go of a Marriage
3. If you or your partner hates the therapist, it may make you less successful with therapy. Keep shopping until you find one you both are comfortable with and respect.
4. If you go to therapy and engage, but don’t do your assignments, you won’t be successful long term. The assignments are part of the process. It leads to better understanding of yourself and your partner.
5. If you don’t prioritize the therapy and schedule it in to your life, then you will miss appointments. We choose what is valuable by our actions. You are telling your spouse and therapist that this isn’t important. Why continue to waste your money?
Top 8 Things that Will Ruin Your Relationship
6. If you are inflexible with your thinking and unwilling to make changes, you are wasting your money with therapy. Therapy is all about changing one’s self. If you think you are perfect and don’t need to make changes, then therapy most likely will not be effective.
7. If you don’t believe in therapy or you think its voodoo, most likely it will not work for yu. Couples must embrace the therapy and believe it will help them restore communication.
8. If you have a girlfriend or boyfriend and are in marital therapy with your spouse, get rid of the girlfriend/boyfriend first. Otherwise therapy will not be successful.
Clues Your Man Is Cheating
9. If you go to therapy, but let your spouse do all the talking, therapy most likely will not be successful. The therapist needs to hear from both of you about how you feel. If you have difficulty expressing yourself with words, ask the therapist if you can write what you want to say. The therapist wants to help you communicate. They don’t care if you talk, write, or act out your emotions.
What Happens When Your Man Disappoints You?
10. If you have great difficulty laughing at yourself, therapy is going to be very difficult. You may still be successful, but it won’t be as enjoyable.
Therapy is one of the greatest opportunities a couple can venture into. It offers an atmosphere of complete honesty, confidentiality, and openness. Where else can you go and talk candidly about you as a couple and get objective guidance? Just remember therapists cannot read your mind. When a therapist joins your marriage team, you should feel supported enough to take risks. You should be able to be totally open and honest with your partner with the intention of creating the best marriage possible.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/sex/10-reasons-couples-therapy-may-not-work-for-you-2455644/
4 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Fighting Ab Flab
4 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Fighting Ab Flab
By Lucy Danziger and the staff at SELF
Feb 17, 2011
There are a lot of things you can do to help melt stubborn belly fat that probably won't come as a surprise to you—you know, the typical cut-calories, get-regular-cardiovascular-exercise type of advice. But what you don't do can be just as key to finally achieving that firm, flat tummy. Get to know these sneaky belly bulgers so you can steer clear of them and trim inches off your waistline fast.
Parking in front of the TV
The occasional DVR-athon can be just what the doctor ordered, but people who tuned in for two or more hours daily had weaker ab and back muscles (by up to 10 percent) than those who viewed less than two hours, regardless of their overall activity level, researchers from the University of Oulu note. An hour of tube time is fine, especially if it motivates you to hit the gym. Schedule your workout to coincide with your favorite dramedy or reality show, and then tune in while you log some miles on the treadmill, elliptical or stationary bike.
Stressing out
Feeling frazzled and frantic? Increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, a result of chronic worry, lead to excess stomach fat, research shows. To de-stress and weigh much less, learn to breathe. When you're on edge (or feel like you're about to be), slowly inhale through your nose, counting to four. Then exhale from your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat until refreshed.
Diving into that darn bread basket!
Those fluffy white rolls? They're your flat-ab foe! When staring down a breadbasket, check its contents before digging in. If you see whole grains, go for it—in fact, feel free to enjoy 3 ounces a day. (One slice of whole-wheat bread or 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice are each 1 ounce.) Dieters who did so lost more stomach fat than those who merely cut calories and ate refined grains, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals.
Munching late-night
I like dessert as much as the next gal, but if you're trying to tighten up your tummy, it's best to pass up that scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream and all other P.M. snacks. Your body may not burn nighttime nibbles as efficiently as it does those you eat during the day, a study of high-fat diets in the journal Obesity finds. Declare "last call" two hours before bed. "If you're really hungry, have a 150-calorie snack," says SELF contributing expert Janis Jibrin, R.D. If not, sip tea, cut the lights and bid farewell to the fridge until morning.
Quoted: http://health.yahoo.net/experts/healthieryou/4-mistakes-everyone-makes-when-fighting-ab-flab
By Lucy Danziger and the staff at SELF
Feb 17, 2011
There are a lot of things you can do to help melt stubborn belly fat that probably won't come as a surprise to you—you know, the typical cut-calories, get-regular-cardiovascular-exercise type of advice. But what you don't do can be just as key to finally achieving that firm, flat tummy. Get to know these sneaky belly bulgers so you can steer clear of them and trim inches off your waistline fast.
Parking in front of the TV
The occasional DVR-athon can be just what the doctor ordered, but people who tuned in for two or more hours daily had weaker ab and back muscles (by up to 10 percent) than those who viewed less than two hours, regardless of their overall activity level, researchers from the University of Oulu note. An hour of tube time is fine, especially if it motivates you to hit the gym. Schedule your workout to coincide with your favorite dramedy or reality show, and then tune in while you log some miles on the treadmill, elliptical or stationary bike.
Stressing out
Feeling frazzled and frantic? Increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, a result of chronic worry, lead to excess stomach fat, research shows. To de-stress and weigh much less, learn to breathe. When you're on edge (or feel like you're about to be), slowly inhale through your nose, counting to four. Then exhale from your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat until refreshed.
Diving into that darn bread basket!
Those fluffy white rolls? They're your flat-ab foe! When staring down a breadbasket, check its contents before digging in. If you see whole grains, go for it—in fact, feel free to enjoy 3 ounces a day. (One slice of whole-wheat bread or 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice are each 1 ounce.) Dieters who did so lost more stomach fat than those who merely cut calories and ate refined grains, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals.
Munching late-night
I like dessert as much as the next gal, but if you're trying to tighten up your tummy, it's best to pass up that scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream and all other P.M. snacks. Your body may not burn nighttime nibbles as efficiently as it does those you eat during the day, a study of high-fat diets in the journal Obesity finds. Declare "last call" two hours before bed. "If you're really hungry, have a 150-calorie snack," says SELF contributing expert Janis Jibrin, R.D. If not, sip tea, cut the lights and bid farewell to the fridge until morning.
Quoted: http://health.yahoo.net/experts/healthieryou/4-mistakes-everyone-makes-when-fighting-ab-flab
‘Boss, I’m stressed because…’
‘Boss, I’m stressed because…’
By Alicia Wong – February 23rd, 2011
A survey identifies the top seven ways people get stressed out before they even reach the office. (Photo: AFP)
You rush out of the house hoping to clear the ERP gantry before the charges go up, but along the way you find yourself stuck behind a driver who’s travelling at 70 km/hour on the first lane of the expressway.
By the time you reach the office, you are seething at the road hog and the other driver who recklessly cut into your lane.
Sound familiar?
A survey by workplace solutions provider Regus identified the top seven occurrences that cause people in Singapore the most stress on the way to work.
Topping the list: bad and dangerous drivers.
The average one-way commute takes 32 minutes in Singapore and two in 10 commuters take more than 45 minutes. “Yet the time taken to commute is less of an issue than the commuting experience,” observed Regus.
Other travel-related causes of stress include delays and services interruptions, other commuters’ body odour and people who talk too loudly on their mobile phones.
The data are part of Regus’ Global Business Survey, which draws from interviews of over 10,000 respondents worldwide through email and online surveys. The respondents are representative of senior managers and business owners.
For director Jay Tan, 27, taxi drivers who refuse to give way on the road and cars that hog the fast lane used to make him furious.
But now he tries to adopt a calmer attitude. “I’ll just smile and forget about it,” he said.
Ms Catherine Chong, 28, who takes the bus to work, shared, “People who stink on the bus stress me out… I feel like I need a shower myself (after reaching work).”
She either moves away or tries to breathe through a wet tissue. “At least there’s some kind of fragrance to mask the stench,” said the researcher.
Her other pet peeves include a “jerky bus” and “loud-mouthed passengers”.
Engineer Kevin Chan, 32, describes his short drive to work as smooth, except for the occasional traffic jam.
To help employees reduce their commuting stress so they can be more productive at work, Regus suggested employers introduce flexible working locations and hours.
“Travelling to a work location closer to home, especially outside of peak hours, is often the best way to avoid theses stresses for a happier, calmer and ultimately more fruitful day’s work,” said Regus vice president of Southeat Asia and Australia and New Zealand William Willems.
Singapore’s “seven deadly sins” of commuting:
1.Bad/dangerous drivers
2.Delays and service interruptions
3.Other commuters’ body odour or bad breath or smelly food
4.People talking too loudly on their mobile phones
5.Rude behaviour from other passengers
6.Road rage
7.Lack of information from service providers, such as information on routes, schedules and delays
What are your pet peeves?
Quoted: http://sg.yfittopostblog.com/2011/02/23/boss-im-stressed-because/
By Alicia Wong – February 23rd, 2011
A survey identifies the top seven ways people get stressed out before they even reach the office. (Photo: AFP)
You rush out of the house hoping to clear the ERP gantry before the charges go up, but along the way you find yourself stuck behind a driver who’s travelling at 70 km/hour on the first lane of the expressway.
By the time you reach the office, you are seething at the road hog and the other driver who recklessly cut into your lane.
Sound familiar?
A survey by workplace solutions provider Regus identified the top seven occurrences that cause people in Singapore the most stress on the way to work.
Topping the list: bad and dangerous drivers.
The average one-way commute takes 32 minutes in Singapore and two in 10 commuters take more than 45 minutes. “Yet the time taken to commute is less of an issue than the commuting experience,” observed Regus.
Other travel-related causes of stress include delays and services interruptions, other commuters’ body odour and people who talk too loudly on their mobile phones.
The data are part of Regus’ Global Business Survey, which draws from interviews of over 10,000 respondents worldwide through email and online surveys. The respondents are representative of senior managers and business owners.
For director Jay Tan, 27, taxi drivers who refuse to give way on the road and cars that hog the fast lane used to make him furious.
But now he tries to adopt a calmer attitude. “I’ll just smile and forget about it,” he said.
Ms Catherine Chong, 28, who takes the bus to work, shared, “People who stink on the bus stress me out… I feel like I need a shower myself (after reaching work).”
She either moves away or tries to breathe through a wet tissue. “At least there’s some kind of fragrance to mask the stench,” said the researcher.
Her other pet peeves include a “jerky bus” and “loud-mouthed passengers”.
Engineer Kevin Chan, 32, describes his short drive to work as smooth, except for the occasional traffic jam.
To help employees reduce their commuting stress so they can be more productive at work, Regus suggested employers introduce flexible working locations and hours.
“Travelling to a work location closer to home, especially outside of peak hours, is often the best way to avoid theses stresses for a happier, calmer and ultimately more fruitful day’s work,” said Regus vice president of Southeat Asia and Australia and New Zealand William Willems.
Singapore’s “seven deadly sins” of commuting:
1.Bad/dangerous drivers
2.Delays and service interruptions
3.Other commuters’ body odour or bad breath or smelly food
4.People talking too loudly on their mobile phones
5.Rude behaviour from other passengers
6.Road rage
7.Lack of information from service providers, such as information on routes, schedules and delays
What are your pet peeves?
Quoted: http://sg.yfittopostblog.com/2011/02/23/boss-im-stressed-because/
All Things Are Possible
When you are walking with Christ and in His will, there is nothing that is impossible for you. The confidence that you can do all things comes with the stipulation that it is only through Christ who strengthens you to accomplish what He has appointed for you to do. There is nothing that the Lord cannot do.
Nothing can baffle His wisdom, nothing can impede His power, nothing can prevent the outworking of His eternal purpose. The context is speaking of the difficulty of a rich man entering the kingdom. But God can change the heart of a miser, incline the will of the covetous. No sinner is beyond the reach of His grace.
God's grace is also the power of God. It is by this power that we can proclaim that His grace is sufficient for every person and every need. If God has placed a task before you and He desires your obedience, remember that He will not ask you to do something that He will not help you accomplish.
Living Life
Nothing can baffle His wisdom, nothing can impede His power, nothing can prevent the outworking of His eternal purpose. The context is speaking of the difficulty of a rich man entering the kingdom. But God can change the heart of a miser, incline the will of the covetous. No sinner is beyond the reach of His grace.
God's grace is also the power of God. It is by this power that we can proclaim that His grace is sufficient for every person and every need. If God has placed a task before you and He desires your obedience, remember that He will not ask you to do something that He will not help you accomplish.
Living Life
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Five Signs You're a Bad Boss
Five Signs You're a Bad Boss
by Diana Middleton
Friday, February 18, 2011
When the number of employees Matt Kaplan managed at a lab at the University of Arizona in Tucson mushroomed from six to 30, the school called in a management coach to make sure he was prepared. What he learned surprised him -- his employees thought he was distant and didn't trust their work.
"The biggest challenge for me was realizing I couldn't do everything myself," he says. "I had to learn to trust my team, which was a gradual process."
Experts say many bosses are similarly clueless about their appearance to employees. Here are five signals you may be one of them.
1. Most of your emails are one-word long.
It may be efficient, but many bosses don't realize how curt a one-word email -- even a simple "yes" or "no" -- can be, says Barbara Pachter, a management coach and author of several workplace etiquette books. She calls it the "BlackBerry effect."
[More from WSJ.com: Inventing Management 2.0]
"Managers have a tendency to be abrupt, especially when they're answering emails on the go," Ms. Pachter says. "It comes off as an invitation for conflict. A simple addition of 'thanks' goes a long way."
Some managers craft even shorter emails. When Christina Marcus emailed an idea for a project to a former boss, he responded "Y." Thinking he was questioning her idea, she spent 20 minutes crafting a response. Turns out, the "Y" meant "yes," not "why." Ms. Marcus eventually left the firm.
[More from WSJ.com: Chief Reboots After H-P Scandal]
2. You rarely talk to your employees face-to-face.
Relying on email may be convenient, but bosses are increasingly using technology to avoid having tough discussions, says Robert Sutton, professor at Stanford University and author of "Good Boss, Bad Boss."
"No one wants to do the dirty work, but it's a boss' lot in life to deal with difficult issues," Mr. Sutton says. Face-time engenders trust with employees, adds Ms. Pachter.
3. Your employees are out sick -- a lot.
Employees will fake sickness to avoid a bad boss, says Mr. Sutton. But there's evidence that a bad boss may be bad for your health. A 2008 Swedish study that tracked more than 3,000 men over 10 years found that the men who said they were poorly managed at work were 20%-40% more likely to have a heart attack.
[More from WSJ.com: Banks Push Home Buyers to Put Down More Cash]
4. Your team's working overtime, but still missing deadlines.
New bosses are particularly prone to giving unmanageable deadlines to staffers, says Gini Graham Scott, author of "A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses."
A human resources executive at a New York firm who declined to be named because she's currently looking for a new position, says that she began working 15-hour days after her new boss came on board. Her boss' first order of business: Promising more aggressive deadlines to clients. "She would tell the client, 'We can have this for you in three days,' which was impossible," says this woman.
5. You yell.
Even if you aren't screaming angrily at your employees, speaking loudly can damage workplace morale, says Ms. Pachter, the management coach. "Employees will constantly feel like they're being reprimanded, and they'll avoid you if there's ever a problem," she says.
At one of Ms. Marcus' former jobs every debate was a public forum, she says. "My bosses would shout freely across the office, even when they weren't necessarily angry," she says. "It charged the atmosphere and really killed productivity, especially when you were trying to figure out who you should be listening to."
Write to Diana Middleton at diana.middleton@wsj.com
Quoted: http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/112159/5-signs-of-a-bad-boss?mod=career-leadership
by Diana Middleton
Friday, February 18, 2011
When the number of employees Matt Kaplan managed at a lab at the University of Arizona in Tucson mushroomed from six to 30, the school called in a management coach to make sure he was prepared. What he learned surprised him -- his employees thought he was distant and didn't trust their work.
"The biggest challenge for me was realizing I couldn't do everything myself," he says. "I had to learn to trust my team, which was a gradual process."
Experts say many bosses are similarly clueless about their appearance to employees. Here are five signals you may be one of them.
1. Most of your emails are one-word long.
It may be efficient, but many bosses don't realize how curt a one-word email -- even a simple "yes" or "no" -- can be, says Barbara Pachter, a management coach and author of several workplace etiquette books. She calls it the "BlackBerry effect."
[More from WSJ.com: Inventing Management 2.0]
"Managers have a tendency to be abrupt, especially when they're answering emails on the go," Ms. Pachter says. "It comes off as an invitation for conflict. A simple addition of 'thanks' goes a long way."
Some managers craft even shorter emails. When Christina Marcus emailed an idea for a project to a former boss, he responded "Y." Thinking he was questioning her idea, she spent 20 minutes crafting a response. Turns out, the "Y" meant "yes," not "why." Ms. Marcus eventually left the firm.
[More from WSJ.com: Chief Reboots After H-P Scandal]
2. You rarely talk to your employees face-to-face.
Relying on email may be convenient, but bosses are increasingly using technology to avoid having tough discussions, says Robert Sutton, professor at Stanford University and author of "Good Boss, Bad Boss."
"No one wants to do the dirty work, but it's a boss' lot in life to deal with difficult issues," Mr. Sutton says. Face-time engenders trust with employees, adds Ms. Pachter.
3. Your employees are out sick -- a lot.
Employees will fake sickness to avoid a bad boss, says Mr. Sutton. But there's evidence that a bad boss may be bad for your health. A 2008 Swedish study that tracked more than 3,000 men over 10 years found that the men who said they were poorly managed at work were 20%-40% more likely to have a heart attack.
[More from WSJ.com: Banks Push Home Buyers to Put Down More Cash]
4. Your team's working overtime, but still missing deadlines.
New bosses are particularly prone to giving unmanageable deadlines to staffers, says Gini Graham Scott, author of "A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses."
A human resources executive at a New York firm who declined to be named because she's currently looking for a new position, says that she began working 15-hour days after her new boss came on board. Her boss' first order of business: Promising more aggressive deadlines to clients. "She would tell the client, 'We can have this for you in three days,' which was impossible," says this woman.
5. You yell.
Even if you aren't screaming angrily at your employees, speaking loudly can damage workplace morale, says Ms. Pachter, the management coach. "Employees will constantly feel like they're being reprimanded, and they'll avoid you if there's ever a problem," she says.
At one of Ms. Marcus' former jobs every debate was a public forum, she says. "My bosses would shout freely across the office, even when they weren't necessarily angry," she says. "It charged the atmosphere and really killed productivity, especially when you were trying to figure out who you should be listening to."
Write to Diana Middleton at diana.middleton@wsj.com
Quoted: http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/112159/5-signs-of-a-bad-boss?mod=career-leadership
Prayer Life
Your prayer life, whether you pray daily or not, is what separates you from someone who just confesses Christ as Lord and someone that true lives like it. If you know who God is, He is the true standard by which we can measure ourselves, and the conclusion is that we are depraved children in need of a Holy Savior. Our daily prayer life is the only way can tell God we need Him. J.R Miller would go so far as to say:
"One who does not pray - is not a Christian. He may be a moral man. A gentleman said the other day of a certain prominent business man, 'He is the most moral and the least religious man I ever know.' He meant that the man is honest, honorable, just generous, charitable, very careful and exact in all his relations to men - but that toward God he is utterly indifferent, never thinks of Him, never recognizes Him in any way, never prays. So as much. He would say he believes in God. But practically, he is agnostic or an atheist. He is utterly without true religion, which means knowing God, recognising God as Father and Friend, living in personal relationship with God."
Build a personal relationship with God and get to know your greatest Friend, Love and Fan. There is nothing you can do that He did not already know you would do. If you make a mistake, He has already you and is just waiting for you to confess your sins and return him, so that He can lavish His great love upon you once again.
Living Life
"One who does not pray - is not a Christian. He may be a moral man. A gentleman said the other day of a certain prominent business man, 'He is the most moral and the least religious man I ever know.' He meant that the man is honest, honorable, just generous, charitable, very careful and exact in all his relations to men - but that toward God he is utterly indifferent, never thinks of Him, never recognizes Him in any way, never prays. So as much. He would say he believes in God. But practically, he is agnostic or an atheist. He is utterly without true religion, which means knowing God, recognising God as Father and Friend, living in personal relationship with God."
Build a personal relationship with God and get to know your greatest Friend, Love and Fan. There is nothing you can do that He did not already know you would do. If you make a mistake, He has already you and is just waiting for you to confess your sins and return him, so that He can lavish His great love upon you once again.
Living Life
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Economics: the key to happy couples' division of labor.
Economics: the key to happy couples' division of labor.
by Dory Devlin, Shine staff, on Wed Feb 16, 2011 2:26pm PST
Housework—who does what, when, and how often—is the source of many a recurring marital complaint. Splitting chores 50/50 often seems like the answer, but couples who do often find themselves as resentful and unhappy as couples who set up no plan for dividing the work that makes a house run.
The reason lies in basic economics, say authors Paula Szuchman and Jenny Anderson of Spousanomics: Using Economics to Master Love, Marriage, and Dirty Dishes. Splitting the dishes, laundry, vacuuming, and other household chores may seem fair, but an unbending line right down the middle can lead to more friction, not less, because no one is good and fast at all things. But when couples adopt the economic principle of “comparative advantage,” which says it’s not efficient to take on every task you’re good at, only the ones you are relatively better at, couples can gain time for the things they really want to do, the authors write.
“In economics, having the comparative advantage in something means you produce it at a lower cost and really quickly,” Paula Szuchman said in an interview with Yahoo! Shine. So if one of you is better at laundry, then do it. And if the other can do the dishes and clean up the kitchen faster every night
, while the better cook cooks, go for it.
The authors, both accomplished journalists (Szuchman: Wall Street Journal and Anderson: New York Times, where she spent years covering Wall Street and delivered award-winning coverage of Merrill Lynch) decided the time was right for an economics-approach how-to for a successful union for a few reasons. One was a pretty tough first year of marriage for Szuchman, who was surprised it was harder than she thought to merge two lives and that “something as banal as housework could get in the way” of all the fun she heard people were having being married. Another was the prevalence of economic terms suddenly in the national lexicon at the time of the financial meltdown. All at once, terms like “moral hazard” and “loss aversion” were all over the news to help explain a seemingly unexplainable economic freefall. “There seemed to be some useful parallels,” Szuchman said.
So if you‘ve tried making charts, keeping score, nagging, and/or letting resentment silently bubble up inside, and nothing’s working, here are some tips gleaned from world-renowned economic theories that just may do the trick.
1. Have an honest talk about what tasks each of you is better at. Applying “comparative advantage,” make an honest assessment of which chores you truly do better and faster than your spouse. It may mean switching tasks that were set either along stereotypical lines or based on what you like doing over others. (Though, really, who “likes” doing the dishes daily?) As Szuchman says, marriage is all about allocating scarce resources—"limited time, limited libido, limited money, and the question is, ‘how do you allocate it all well?' ”
2. Gain new specializations. If you love being outside but have never mowed a lawn, it may be time to master the mower. If you spend tons of leisure time on the computer, maybe bill-paying should fall under your marital to-do’s. The lesson, Szuchman says, is that sometimes you have to each invest time learning new tasks to shake up a division of labor that’s not working. Be flexible.
3. Let go of perfection. Or what you think perfection is. If your husband takes over the laundry, for example, don’t refold what he folds. And if your wife is stacking the dishwasher every night, don’t rearrange where she puts everything. “Once you divide it all this way, it’s really important to let go,” Szuchman said.
4. Fair doesn’t have to mean equal. Whether it’s because of comparative advantage or because one spouse works out of the home and the other at home, many couples will not have an even-split division of labor. Sometimes one partner is just looking for some give, an extra break from their responsibilities, for married life to feel more balanced. “Life need not be a fifty/fifty split for each person to be happy,” Szuchman and Anderson write. “It could be sixty/forty, or seventy/thirty, or even ninety-nine/one, depending on the people, the situation, and the willingness to put away the calculator and give and take based on what really works best rather than what we think should work best.”
5. If kids come along…. Once you’ve ironed out all disagreements/agreements of splitting chores between the two of you, get ready for some new battles over what chores the kids should do, and how to make sure they follow through on their ‘assignments.’ Number 3 applies here all over again. Don’t remake your tot’s bed once he’s old enough to include it in his daily to-do’s. That sends the wrong message.
“In marriage everything is a trade-off,” Szuchman says, citing another economic term. “There’s a lot of thinking at the margin,” which is another way of saying making decisions based on small changes in resources. See, economics is everywhere in a marriage.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/event/financiallyfit/economics-the-key-to-happy-couples-division-of-labor-2455003/
by Dory Devlin, Shine staff, on Wed Feb 16, 2011 2:26pm PST
Housework—who does what, when, and how often—is the source of many a recurring marital complaint. Splitting chores 50/50 often seems like the answer, but couples who do often find themselves as resentful and unhappy as couples who set up no plan for dividing the work that makes a house run.
The reason lies in basic economics, say authors Paula Szuchman and Jenny Anderson of Spousanomics: Using Economics to Master Love, Marriage, and Dirty Dishes. Splitting the dishes, laundry, vacuuming, and other household chores may seem fair, but an unbending line right down the middle can lead to more friction, not less, because no one is good and fast at all things. But when couples adopt the economic principle of “comparative advantage,” which says it’s not efficient to take on every task you’re good at, only the ones you are relatively better at, couples can gain time for the things they really want to do, the authors write.
“In economics, having the comparative advantage in something means you produce it at a lower cost and really quickly,” Paula Szuchman said in an interview with Yahoo! Shine. So if one of you is better at laundry, then do it. And if the other can do the dishes and clean up the kitchen faster every night
, while the better cook cooks, go for it.
The authors, both accomplished journalists (Szuchman: Wall Street Journal and Anderson: New York Times, where she spent years covering Wall Street and delivered award-winning coverage of Merrill Lynch) decided the time was right for an economics-approach how-to for a successful union for a few reasons. One was a pretty tough first year of marriage for Szuchman, who was surprised it was harder than she thought to merge two lives and that “something as banal as housework could get in the way” of all the fun she heard people were having being married. Another was the prevalence of economic terms suddenly in the national lexicon at the time of the financial meltdown. All at once, terms like “moral hazard” and “loss aversion” were all over the news to help explain a seemingly unexplainable economic freefall. “There seemed to be some useful parallels,” Szuchman said.
So if you‘ve tried making charts, keeping score, nagging, and/or letting resentment silently bubble up inside, and nothing’s working, here are some tips gleaned from world-renowned economic theories that just may do the trick.
1. Have an honest talk about what tasks each of you is better at. Applying “comparative advantage,” make an honest assessment of which chores you truly do better and faster than your spouse. It may mean switching tasks that were set either along stereotypical lines or based on what you like doing over others. (Though, really, who “likes” doing the dishes daily?) As Szuchman says, marriage is all about allocating scarce resources—"limited time, limited libido, limited money, and the question is, ‘how do you allocate it all well?' ”
2. Gain new specializations. If you love being outside but have never mowed a lawn, it may be time to master the mower. If you spend tons of leisure time on the computer, maybe bill-paying should fall under your marital to-do’s. The lesson, Szuchman says, is that sometimes you have to each invest time learning new tasks to shake up a division of labor that’s not working. Be flexible.
3. Let go of perfection. Or what you think perfection is. If your husband takes over the laundry, for example, don’t refold what he folds. And if your wife is stacking the dishwasher every night, don’t rearrange where she puts everything. “Once you divide it all this way, it’s really important to let go,” Szuchman said.
4. Fair doesn’t have to mean equal. Whether it’s because of comparative advantage or because one spouse works out of the home and the other at home, many couples will not have an even-split division of labor. Sometimes one partner is just looking for some give, an extra break from their responsibilities, for married life to feel more balanced. “Life need not be a fifty/fifty split for each person to be happy,” Szuchman and Anderson write. “It could be sixty/forty, or seventy/thirty, or even ninety-nine/one, depending on the people, the situation, and the willingness to put away the calculator and give and take based on what really works best rather than what we think should work best.”
5. If kids come along…. Once you’ve ironed out all disagreements/agreements of splitting chores between the two of you, get ready for some new battles over what chores the kids should do, and how to make sure they follow through on their ‘assignments.’ Number 3 applies here all over again. Don’t remake your tot’s bed once he’s old enough to include it in his daily to-do’s. That sends the wrong message.
“In marriage everything is a trade-off,” Szuchman says, citing another economic term. “There’s a lot of thinking at the margin,” which is another way of saying making decisions based on small changes in resources. See, economics is everywhere in a marriage.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/event/financiallyfit/economics-the-key-to-happy-couples-division-of-labor-2455003/
Four Traditional Money Rules to Break
Four Traditional Money Rules to Break
AnnaMaria Andriotis
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Never borrow against a 401(k). Avoid credit cards. Make a bigger down payment on your home or apartment to avoid paying extra mortgage interest. These are among the tried-and-true financial rules consumers have been told to live by for years. But now -- with interest rates still low and credit staging a comeback -- might be a good time to break them.
This solid financial advice isn't suddenly all wrong, but many of these axioms no longer result in higher savings or less debt. That's because the economic recovery has opened up more exceptions and loopholes to standard advice, says David Peterson, president of Peak Capital Investment Services, a financial planning firm. Advisers, for example, typically discouraged clients from taking a loan from their 401(k) -- but this is now the cheapest way to borrow money, with the average rate at 4.25%, lower than most personal loans, to pay back debt they racked up during the recession. But as some parts of the economy have improved -- equities are once again outperforming fixed income, banks are slowly returning to lending, and consumers are spending more -- the rules for making and saving money are changing, at least temporarily.
Here are four traditional money rules you can break -- at least for now.
401(k) Loans
Old school advice: Avoid taking one at all costs.
Now: The most affordable loan available.
For decades, borrowing from a 401(k) plan was synonymous to derailing retirement savings. But right now, the cheapest bank for many borrowers -- especially those who feel secure in their job -- is their own 401(k). Average interest rates on credit cards are 14% and on home equity lines of credit 5.22%. But a 401(k) loan charges a fixed average of prime (currently 3.25%) plus 1%, according to the Profit Sharing/401(k) Council of America. Approximately 90% of employers offering 401(k)s permit employees to borrow from them, according to the PSCA, and the loans can last for up to 15 years. These loans make most sense for consumers stuck with high-interest credit card debt. In a year, a borrower can save around $800 in interest with a loan that eliminates a $5,000 balance on a card with a 20% interest rate.
And the money the borrower pays back goes into their 401(k) -- not to a bank. Repaying can also be easier than it is with a regular loan, says Olivia Mitchell, professor at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, who recently coauthored a study on 401(k) loans. About 60 million people contribute to a 401(k), according to the PSCA; once a loan is taken out, any contributions made via automatic payroll deductions first go toward paying down the loan. But, there are still some pitfalls: If you lose your job or leave it voluntarily and can't pay the loan back within 90 days you'll be hit with federal income tax on the outstanding amount, plus a 10% penalty if less than age 59 1/2. And you'll need to reallocate some of what remains into higher-yielding equities until the account is made whole, to avoid missing out on potential gains, says David Wray, president of the PSCA.
Roth IRAs
Old school advice: Convert a traditional IRA into a Roth to save on taxes.
Now: Stick with the IRA.
The Roth IRA's appeal has always been that contributions, rather than withdrawals, are taxed, shifting the tax burden to pre-retirement instead of years down the road when taxes could be higher. Roth IRAs became even more user-friendly last year when taxpayers were allowed to convert from a traditional IRA regardless of income (the limit for conversions had been $100,000 modified adjusted-growth income). But in many cases, staying put in a traditional IRA will lead to bigger savings -- especially for people five to 10 years away from when they plan to withdraw their money, says Peterson. Here's why: It can take years of tax-free growth to make up the taxes incurred during the conversion. For example, someone who converts $100,000 from a traditional to a Roth IRA and pays $30,000 in taxes will need at least five years to make that money back -- assuming a 7% rate of return. And that doesn't address the loss of compounding that would have occurred if that money didn't go toward paying taxes, says Sheryl Garrett, a fee-only certified financial planner.
There's also less time to pay taxes on this conversion now. Savers who converted from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA last year were able to spread the income from that conversion over 2011 and 2012. But now, all of the income from a conversion made in 2011 (and after) is taxable at once. Also, this conversion comes with the risk of getting bumped to a higher tax bracket during that year because the money counts as income -- so converting might not make sense for someone whose budget is currently stretched thin. Instead, savers might now want to convert a smaller amount gradually once a year that won't put them into different bracket, says Garrett.
Mortgages
Old school advice: Choose the mortgage with the smallest interest payments.
Now: Go with more interest.
Paying the least interest on a mortgage requires two steps: a down payment of at least 20% and paying down the loan quickly. But both strategies can create a setback for a borrower -- especially in still-uncertain housing and employment markets, says Chip Cummings, president of Northwind Financial, a training and consulting company for mortgage firms. With interest rates still low, instead of throwing most of their money into the home -- where some of it could be lost if home values decline -- consumers might want to make a down payment of 10%. Keep the extra cash in an emergency fund in case of sudden job loss or unexpected renovations and take on the added cost of private mortgage insurance.
PMI varies, but on average is 60 basis points. On a $300,000 30-year mortgage, a borrower keeps an extra $30,000 in cash and pays $1,800 a year just in PMI until he or she hits the 22% equity threshold. What's more, a 30-year mortgage, rather than a 15-year one, is one good way to build a savings safety net, says Keith Gumbinger, vice president at HSH Associates, which tracks the mortgage market. On average, monthly payments are 20% to 30% smaller with a 30-year mortgage, he says. That extra money could be stashed in savings for a rainy day or to pay the mortgage if you lose your job.
Credit Cards
Old school advice: Refrain from using them.
Now: Swipe -- with caution.
Stashing credit cards in a bank safe deposit box or freezing them in a block of ice were commonplace for many consumers during the recession in an attempt to lower spending and take time to pay down cards. But now, it seems that in order to hold onto a good credit score and access to credit cards in case of an emergency, borrowers need to make more purchases using them. Prime borrowers who stop using their credit cards will find their credit lines slashed or closed -- largely because their accounts are unprofitable since there's no balance to charge interest on, says John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education for SmartCredit.com, a credit-monitoring web site.
The median FICO score of borrowers with no trigger event, like a missed payment, who've been affected, is 770, according to a 2010 study by Fair Isaac. The result is a higher amount of credit card debt compared to total credit limits available, a ratio that can contribute to about 30% of their credit score. Use your credit cards at least once every three months -- and pay the balance off in full each time -- to avoid this, says Ulzheimer.
Quoted: http://financiallyfit.yahoo.com/finance/article-112123-8543-5--4-traditional-money-rules-to-break?ywaad=ad0035&nc
AnnaMaria Andriotis
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Never borrow against a 401(k). Avoid credit cards. Make a bigger down payment on your home or apartment to avoid paying extra mortgage interest. These are among the tried-and-true financial rules consumers have been told to live by for years. But now -- with interest rates still low and credit staging a comeback -- might be a good time to break them.
This solid financial advice isn't suddenly all wrong, but many of these axioms no longer result in higher savings or less debt. That's because the economic recovery has opened up more exceptions and loopholes to standard advice, says David Peterson, president of Peak Capital Investment Services, a financial planning firm. Advisers, for example, typically discouraged clients from taking a loan from their 401(k) -- but this is now the cheapest way to borrow money, with the average rate at 4.25%, lower than most personal loans, to pay back debt they racked up during the recession. But as some parts of the economy have improved -- equities are once again outperforming fixed income, banks are slowly returning to lending, and consumers are spending more -- the rules for making and saving money are changing, at least temporarily.
Here are four traditional money rules you can break -- at least for now.
401(k) Loans
Old school advice: Avoid taking one at all costs.
Now: The most affordable loan available.
For decades, borrowing from a 401(k) plan was synonymous to derailing retirement savings. But right now, the cheapest bank for many borrowers -- especially those who feel secure in their job -- is their own 401(k). Average interest rates on credit cards are 14% and on home equity lines of credit 5.22%. But a 401(k) loan charges a fixed average of prime (currently 3.25%) plus 1%, according to the Profit Sharing/401(k) Council of America. Approximately 90% of employers offering 401(k)s permit employees to borrow from them, according to the PSCA, and the loans can last for up to 15 years. These loans make most sense for consumers stuck with high-interest credit card debt. In a year, a borrower can save around $800 in interest with a loan that eliminates a $5,000 balance on a card with a 20% interest rate.
And the money the borrower pays back goes into their 401(k) -- not to a bank. Repaying can also be easier than it is with a regular loan, says Olivia Mitchell, professor at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, who recently coauthored a study on 401(k) loans. About 60 million people contribute to a 401(k), according to the PSCA; once a loan is taken out, any contributions made via automatic payroll deductions first go toward paying down the loan. But, there are still some pitfalls: If you lose your job or leave it voluntarily and can't pay the loan back within 90 days you'll be hit with federal income tax on the outstanding amount, plus a 10% penalty if less than age 59 1/2. And you'll need to reallocate some of what remains into higher-yielding equities until the account is made whole, to avoid missing out on potential gains, says David Wray, president of the PSCA.
Roth IRAs
Old school advice: Convert a traditional IRA into a Roth to save on taxes.
Now: Stick with the IRA.
The Roth IRA's appeal has always been that contributions, rather than withdrawals, are taxed, shifting the tax burden to pre-retirement instead of years down the road when taxes could be higher. Roth IRAs became even more user-friendly last year when taxpayers were allowed to convert from a traditional IRA regardless of income (the limit for conversions had been $100,000 modified adjusted-growth income). But in many cases, staying put in a traditional IRA will lead to bigger savings -- especially for people five to 10 years away from when they plan to withdraw their money, says Peterson. Here's why: It can take years of tax-free growth to make up the taxes incurred during the conversion. For example, someone who converts $100,000 from a traditional to a Roth IRA and pays $30,000 in taxes will need at least five years to make that money back -- assuming a 7% rate of return. And that doesn't address the loss of compounding that would have occurred if that money didn't go toward paying taxes, says Sheryl Garrett, a fee-only certified financial planner.
There's also less time to pay taxes on this conversion now. Savers who converted from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA last year were able to spread the income from that conversion over 2011 and 2012. But now, all of the income from a conversion made in 2011 (and after) is taxable at once. Also, this conversion comes with the risk of getting bumped to a higher tax bracket during that year because the money counts as income -- so converting might not make sense for someone whose budget is currently stretched thin. Instead, savers might now want to convert a smaller amount gradually once a year that won't put them into different bracket, says Garrett.
Mortgages
Old school advice: Choose the mortgage with the smallest interest payments.
Now: Go with more interest.
Paying the least interest on a mortgage requires two steps: a down payment of at least 20% and paying down the loan quickly. But both strategies can create a setback for a borrower -- especially in still-uncertain housing and employment markets, says Chip Cummings, president of Northwind Financial, a training and consulting company for mortgage firms. With interest rates still low, instead of throwing most of their money into the home -- where some of it could be lost if home values decline -- consumers might want to make a down payment of 10%. Keep the extra cash in an emergency fund in case of sudden job loss or unexpected renovations and take on the added cost of private mortgage insurance.
PMI varies, but on average is 60 basis points. On a $300,000 30-year mortgage, a borrower keeps an extra $30,000 in cash and pays $1,800 a year just in PMI until he or she hits the 22% equity threshold. What's more, a 30-year mortgage, rather than a 15-year one, is one good way to build a savings safety net, says Keith Gumbinger, vice president at HSH Associates, which tracks the mortgage market. On average, monthly payments are 20% to 30% smaller with a 30-year mortgage, he says. That extra money could be stashed in savings for a rainy day or to pay the mortgage if you lose your job.
Credit Cards
Old school advice: Refrain from using them.
Now: Swipe -- with caution.
Stashing credit cards in a bank safe deposit box or freezing them in a block of ice were commonplace for many consumers during the recession in an attempt to lower spending and take time to pay down cards. But now, it seems that in order to hold onto a good credit score and access to credit cards in case of an emergency, borrowers need to make more purchases using them. Prime borrowers who stop using their credit cards will find their credit lines slashed or closed -- largely because their accounts are unprofitable since there's no balance to charge interest on, says John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education for SmartCredit.com, a credit-monitoring web site.
The median FICO score of borrowers with no trigger event, like a missed payment, who've been affected, is 770, according to a 2010 study by Fair Isaac. The result is a higher amount of credit card debt compared to total credit limits available, a ratio that can contribute to about 30% of their credit score. Use your credit cards at least once every three months -- and pay the balance off in full each time -- to avoid this, says Ulzheimer.
Quoted: http://financiallyfit.yahoo.com/finance/article-112123-8543-5--4-traditional-money-rules-to-break?ywaad=ad0035&nc
On Earth as It Is in Heaven
If we were to describe life in one short phrase, we would say it is hectic. Sometimes it is exciting, full of roses and the next minute it is boring and somewhat depressing. With all of the ups and downs, it is easy to be swept up and away by the troubles of this world. But the Christian, despite all the burdens of life, must know that his true citizenship is in Heaven.
His heart and home are in one sense on earth; in an equally truthful, more exalted sense, he can sing as the chartered citizen of glory: "Who has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ." "Whether we live we live unto the Lord; or whether we die we die unto the Lord; whether we live therefore or die we are the Lord's" (Rom. 14:8).
Knowing that we belong to a permanent home where there are no sorrows, pains or worries should lighten our burdens here on earth - whatever we go through is temporary. When the things of this world trouble you, life your eyes to Jesus and know that your eternal home is being prepared for you by your Beloved.
Living Life
His heart and home are in one sense on earth; in an equally truthful, more exalted sense, he can sing as the chartered citizen of glory: "Who has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ." "Whether we live we live unto the Lord; or whether we die we die unto the Lord; whether we live therefore or die we are the Lord's" (Rom. 14:8).
Knowing that we belong to a permanent home where there are no sorrows, pains or worries should lighten our burdens here on earth - whatever we go through is temporary. When the things of this world trouble you, life your eyes to Jesus and know that your eternal home is being prepared for you by your Beloved.
Living Life
18 Things Your Feet Say About Your Health
18 Things Your Feet Say About Your Health
By Paula Spencer, Caring.com
Thu, Feb 03, 2011
Want to make a simple, ten-second check on the state of your health? Sneak a peek at your feet.
"You can detect everything from diabetes to nutritional deficiencies just by examining the feet," says Jane Andersen, DPM, president of the American Association of Women Podiatrists and a spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association.
The lowly left and right provide plenty of insightful data: Together they contain a quarter of the body's bones, and each foot also has 33 joints; 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments; and countless nerves and blood vessels that link all the way to the heart, spine, and brain.
Unresolved foot problems can have unexpected consequences. Untreated pain often leads a person to move less and gain weight, for example, or to shift balance in unnatural ways, increasing the chance of falling and breaking a bone.
So when the feet send one of these 18 warning messages, they mean business.
8 Things Your Hair Says About Your Health
1. Red flag: Toenails with slightly sunken, spoon-shaped indentations
What it means: Anemia (iron deficiency) often shows up as an unnatural, concave or spoonlike shape to the toes' nail beds, especially in moderate-to-severe cases. It's caused by not having enough hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein in the blood cells that transports oxygen. Internal bleeding (such as an ulcer) or heavy menstrual periods can trigger anemia.
More clues: On fingers as well as toes, the skin and nail beds both appear pale. The nails may also be brittle, and feet may feel cold. Fatigue is the number-one sign of anemia, as are shortness of breath, dizziness when standing, and headache.
What to do: A complete blood count is usually used to diagnose anemia. A physical exam may pinpoint a cause. First-step treatments include iron supplements and dietary changes to add iron and vitamin C (which speeds iron absorption).
2. Red flag: Hairless feet or toes
What it means: Poor circulation, usually caused by vascular disease, can make hair disappear from the feet. When the heart loses the ability to pump enough blood to the extremities because of arteriosclerosis (commonly known as hardening of the arteries), the body has to prioritize its use. Hairy toes are, well, low on the totem pole.
More clues: The reduced blood supply also makes it hard to feel a pulse in the feet. (Check the top of the foot or the inside of the ankle.) When you stand, your feet may be bright red or dusky; when elevated, they immediately pale. The skin is shiny. People with poor circulation tend to already know they have a cardiovascular condition (such as heart disease or a carotid artery) yet may not realize they have circulation trouble.
What to do: Treating the underlying vascular issues can improve circulation. Toe hair seldom returns, but nobody complains much.
3. Red flag: Frequent foot cramping (charley horses)
What it means: The sudden stab of a foot cramp -- basically, the hard contraction of a muscle -- can be triggered by fleeting circumstances such as exercise or dehydration. But if it happens often, your diet may lack sufficient calcium, potassium, or magnesium. Pregnant women in the third trimester are especially vulnerable thanks to increased blood volume and reduced circulation to the feet.
More clues: Charley horses tend to rear up out of nowhere, often while you're just lying there. They can be a single sharp muscle spasm or come in waves. Either way, soreness can linger long afterward.
What to do: Try to flex the foot and massage the painful area. You may also be able to relax the muscle by applying a cold pack or rubbing alcohol. To prevent cramps, stretch your feet before you go to bed. Then drink a glass of warm milk (for the calcium).
4. Red flag: A sore that won't heal on the bottom of the foot
What it means: This is a major clue to diabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels lead to nerve damage in the feet -- which means that minor scrapes, cuts, or irritations caused by pressure or friction often go unnoticed, especially by someone who's unaware he has the disease. Untreated, these ulcers can lead to infection, even amputation.
More clues: Oozing, foul-smelling cuts are especially suspect because they've probably been there awhile. Other symptoms of diabetes include persistent thirst, frequent urination, increased fatigue, blurry vision, extreme hunger, and weight loss.
What to do: Get the ulcer treated immediately and see a doctor for a diabetes evaluation. Diabetics need to inspect their feet daily (older people or the obese should have someone do this for them) and see a healthcare professional every three months.
5. Red flag: Cold feet
What it means: Women, especially, report cold feet (or more precisely, their bedmates complain about them). It may be nothing -- or it may indicate a thyroid issue. Women over 40 who have cold feet often have an underfunctioning thyroid, the gland that regulates temperature and metabolism. Poor circulation (in either gender) is another possible cause.
More clues: Hypothyroidism's symptoms are pretty subtle and appear in many disorders (fatigue, depression, weight gain, dry skin).
What to do: Insulating layers of natural materials work best for warmth. (Think wool socks and lined boots). If you also have other nagging health complaints, mention the cold feet to your doctor. Unfortunately, however, aside from treatment with medication in the event of a thyroid condition, this tends to be a symptom that's neither easily nor sexily resolved.
6. Red flag: Thick, yellow, downright ugly toenails
What it means: A fungal infection is running rampant below the surface of the nail. Onychomycosis can persist painlessly for years. By the time it's visibly unattractive, the infection is advanced and can spread to all toenails and even fingernails.
More clues: The nails may also smell bad and turn dark. People most vulnerable: those with diabetes, circulatory trouble, or immune-deficiency disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis). If an older person has trouble walking, sometimes the problem can be traced to the simple fact that as infected nails grow thicker, they're harder to cut and simply go ignored to the point of pain.
What to do: See a foot specialist or your regular physician for care and treatment. In serious cases, over-the-counter antifungals are usually not as effective as a combination of topical and oral medications and the professional removal of diseased bits. Newer-generation oral antifungal medications tend to have fewer side effects than older ones.
7. Red flag: A suddenly enlarged, scary-looking big toe
What it means: Probably gout. Yes, that old-fashioned-sounding disease is still very much around -- and you don't have to be over 65 to get it. Gout is a form of arthritis (also called "gouty arthritis") that's usually caused by too much uric acid, a natural substance. The built-up uric acid forms needlelike crystals, especially at low body temperatures. And the coolest part of the body, farthest from the heart, happens to be the big toe.
"Three-fourths of the time, you wake up with a red-hot swollen toe joint as the first presentation of gout," says podiatrist Andersen.
More clues: Swelling and shiny red or purplish skin -- along with a sensation of heat and pain -- can also occur in the instep, the Achilles tendon, the knees, and the elbows. Anyone can develop gout, though men in their 40s and 50s are especially prone. Women with gout tend to be postmenopausal.
What to do: See a doctor about controlling the causes of gout through diet or medication. A foot specialist can help relieve pain and preserve function.
8. Red flag: Numbness in both feet
What it means: Being unable to "feel" your feet or having a heavy pins-and-needles sensation is a hallmark of peripheral neuropathy, or damage to the peripheral nervous system. That's the body's way of transmitting information from the brain and spinal cord to the entire rest of the body. Peripheral neuropathy has many causes, but the top two are diabetes and alcohol abuse (current or past). Chemotherapy is another common cause.
More clues: The tingling or burning can also appear in hands and may gradually spread up to arms and legs. The reduced sensation may make it feel like you're constantly wearing heavy socks or gloves.
What to do: See a physician to try to pinpoint the cause (especially if alcohol addiction doesn't apply). There's no cure for peripheral neuropathy, but medications from pain relievers to antidepressants can treat symptoms.
9. Red flag: Sore toe joints
What it means: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a degenerative joint disease, is often first felt in the smaller joints, such as the toes and the knuckles of the hands.
More clues: Swelling and stiffness usually accompany the aches. This pain tends to be symmetrical; for example, it happens simultaneously in both big toes or in both index fingers. RA develops more suddenly than degenerative arthritis, and attacks may come and go. Women are almost four times more affected than men.
What to do: A full workup is always needed to pinpoint the cause of any joint pain. For RA, there are many medications and therapies that can minimize pain and preserve function, though early diagnosis is important to avoid permanent deformity. (In the feet, the toes can drift to the side.)
10. Red flag: Pitted toenails
What it means: In up to half of all people with psoriasis, the skin disease also shows up in the nail as many little holes, which can be deep or shallow. More than three-fourths of those with psoriatic arthritis, a related disorder that affects the joints as well as the skin, also have pocked, pitted nails.
More clues: The nails (fingers as well as toes) will also thicken. They may be yellow-brown or have salmon-colored patches. The knuckle nearest the nail is also likely to be dry, red, and inflamed.
What to do: A variety of medications can treat both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and can restore the nail bed surface in many cases, especially if treatment begins early.
11. Red flag: Being unable to raise the foot upward from the heel
What it means: "Foot drop" (also "drop foot") signals nerve or muscle damage that can originate well north of your feet -- as far as your back or even shoulder or neck. Certain chemotherapy drugs can also cause trouble lifting the front part of the foot while walking or standing.
More clues: There may be pain and numbness as well, though not necessarily. Sometimes the pain is felt in the upper leg or lower spine, where a nerve is pinched (by damage or a tumor). In some cases, the foot drags when the person walks. It's rare for both feet to be affected.
What to do: Report this serious symptom to your doctor. Foot drop can be completely reversible or permanent, depending on its cause and treatment.
12. Red flag: Dry, flaky skin
What it means: Even if your face or hands tend to be powdery-dry, don't dismiss this skin condition on your feet. You don't have to be a jock to contract athlete's foot, a fungal infection that usually starts as dry, itchy skin that then progresses to inflammation and blisters. When blisters break, the infection spreads.
(The name comes from the moist places the fungus thrives -- places athletes tend to congregate, such as locker rooms and pools.)
More clues: Athlete's foot usually shows up between the toes first. It can spread to the soles and even to other parts of the body (like the underarms or groin), usually due to scratching.
What to do: Mild cases can be self-treated by bathing the feet often and drying them thoroughly. Then keep the feet dry, including using foot powder in shoes and socks. If there's no improvement in two weeks or the infection worsens, a doctor can prescribe topical or oral antifungal medication.
13. Red flag: Toes that turn patriotic colors
What it means: In cold weather, Raynaud's disease (or Raynaud's phenomenon) causes the extremities to first go white, then turn blue, and finally appear red before returning to a natural hue. For reasons not well understood, the blood vessels in these areas vasospasm, or overreact, causing the tricolor show.
More clues: Other commonly affected areas include the fingers, nose, lips, and ear lobes. They also feel cool to the touch and go numb. Women and those who live in colder climates get Raynaud's more often. It typically shows up before age 25 or after 40. Stress can trigger Raynaud's attacks, too.
What to do: See a doctor about medications that can widen blood vessels, which reduces the severity of attacks.
14. Red flag: Feet that are really painful to walk on
What it means: Undiagnosed stress fractures are a common cause of foot pain. The discomfort can be felt along the sides of the feet, in the soles, or "all over." These fractures -- they often occur repeatedly -- may be caused by another underlying problem, often osteopenia (a decrease in optimum bone density, especially in women over age 50) or some kind of malnutrition, including a vitamin D deficiency, a problem absorbing calcium, or anorexia.
More clues: Often you can still walk on the broken bones; it just hurts like heck. (Some hardy people have gone undiagnosed for as long as a year.)
What to do: See a foot doctor about any pain. If, for example, you've been walking around Europe for three weeks in bad shoes, your feet may simply be sore. But a 55-year-old sedentary woman with painful feet may need a bone-density exam. An X-ray can also reveal possible nutritional issues that warrant a referral to a primary care provider.
15. Red flag: Toes that bump upward at the tips
What it means: When the very tips of the toes swell to the point where they lose their usual angle and appear to bump upward at the ends, it's called "digital clubbing" or "Hippocratic clubbing" after Hippocrates, who described the phenomenon 2,000 years ago. It's a common sign of serious pulmonary (lung) disease, including pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Heart disease and certain gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease, are also associated with clubbing.
More clues: Fingers can be clubbed as well as toes. It can happen in just some digits, or in all.
What to do: Treatment depends on the underlying cause, so report this serious symptom to a doctor. (Physicians are also well trained to look for clubbed digits during exams.)
16. Red flag: Shooting pain in the heel
What it means: Plantar fasciitis -- a fancy name for inflammation of a band of connective tissue (fascia) running along the bottom (plantar) of the foot -- is abnormal straining of the tissue beyond its normal extension.
More clues: The pain starts when you take your first steps in the morning and often intensifies as the day wears on. It's usually concentrated in the heel (one or both) but can also be felt in the arch or in the back of the foot. Running and jumping a lot can cause it, but so can insufficient support. You're at risk if you go barefoot a lot or wear old shoes or flimsy flip-flops, have gained weight, or walk a lot on hard surfaces.
What to do: If pain persists more than a few weeks or seems to worsen, have it evaluated by a podiatrist. Stick to low shoes with a strong supportive arch until you get further advice and treatment (which may include anti-inflammatory drugs and shoe inserts).
17. Red flag: "Phee-uuuuw!"
What it means: Though smelly feet (hyperhidrosis) tend to cause more alarm than most foot symptoms, odor -- even downright stinkiness -- is seldom a sign something's physically amiss. (Whew!) Feet contain more sweat glands than any other body part -- half a million between the two of them! And some people are more prone to sweat than others. Add in the casings of shoes and socks, and the normal bacteria that thrive in the body have a feast on the resulting moisture, creating the smell that makes wives and mothers weep. (Both sexes can have smelly feet, but men tend to sweat more.)
More clues: In this case, the one olfactory clue is plenty.
What to do: Wash with antibacterial soap and dry feet well. Rub cornstarch or antiperspirant onto soles. Toss used socks in the wash; always put on a fresh pair instead of reusing. Stick to natural materials (cotton socks, leather shoes) -- they wick away moisture better than man-made materials. Open up laced shoes after you remove them so they get a chance to fully air out; don't wear them again until they're fully dry.
18. Red flag: Old shoes
What it means: Danger! You're a walking health bomb if your everyday shoes are more than a couple of years old or if walking or running shoes have more than 350 to 500 miles on them. Old shoes lack the support feet need -- and footgear wears out faster than most people think, foot specialists say.
More clues: Blisters (too tight), bunions (too narrow), heel pain (not enough support) -- if you're having any kind of foot trouble, there's at least a 50-50 chance your shoddy or ill-fitting footwear is to blame.
Older people are especially vulnerable because they fall into the habit of wearing familiar old shoes that may lack support, flexibility, or good traction,
Quoted : http://health.yahoo.net/caring/18-things-your-feet-say-about-your-health
By Paula Spencer, Caring.com
Thu, Feb 03, 2011
Want to make a simple, ten-second check on the state of your health? Sneak a peek at your feet.
"You can detect everything from diabetes to nutritional deficiencies just by examining the feet," says Jane Andersen, DPM, president of the American Association of Women Podiatrists and a spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association.
The lowly left and right provide plenty of insightful data: Together they contain a quarter of the body's bones, and each foot also has 33 joints; 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments; and countless nerves and blood vessels that link all the way to the heart, spine, and brain.
Unresolved foot problems can have unexpected consequences. Untreated pain often leads a person to move less and gain weight, for example, or to shift balance in unnatural ways, increasing the chance of falling and breaking a bone.
So when the feet send one of these 18 warning messages, they mean business.
8 Things Your Hair Says About Your Health
1. Red flag: Toenails with slightly sunken, spoon-shaped indentations
What it means: Anemia (iron deficiency) often shows up as an unnatural, concave or spoonlike shape to the toes' nail beds, especially in moderate-to-severe cases. It's caused by not having enough hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein in the blood cells that transports oxygen. Internal bleeding (such as an ulcer) or heavy menstrual periods can trigger anemia.
More clues: On fingers as well as toes, the skin and nail beds both appear pale. The nails may also be brittle, and feet may feel cold. Fatigue is the number-one sign of anemia, as are shortness of breath, dizziness when standing, and headache.
What to do: A complete blood count is usually used to diagnose anemia. A physical exam may pinpoint a cause. First-step treatments include iron supplements and dietary changes to add iron and vitamin C (which speeds iron absorption).
2. Red flag: Hairless feet or toes
What it means: Poor circulation, usually caused by vascular disease, can make hair disappear from the feet. When the heart loses the ability to pump enough blood to the extremities because of arteriosclerosis (commonly known as hardening of the arteries), the body has to prioritize its use. Hairy toes are, well, low on the totem pole.
More clues: The reduced blood supply also makes it hard to feel a pulse in the feet. (Check the top of the foot or the inside of the ankle.) When you stand, your feet may be bright red or dusky; when elevated, they immediately pale. The skin is shiny. People with poor circulation tend to already know they have a cardiovascular condition (such as heart disease or a carotid artery) yet may not realize they have circulation trouble.
What to do: Treating the underlying vascular issues can improve circulation. Toe hair seldom returns, but nobody complains much.
3. Red flag: Frequent foot cramping (charley horses)
What it means: The sudden stab of a foot cramp -- basically, the hard contraction of a muscle -- can be triggered by fleeting circumstances such as exercise or dehydration. But if it happens often, your diet may lack sufficient calcium, potassium, or magnesium. Pregnant women in the third trimester are especially vulnerable thanks to increased blood volume and reduced circulation to the feet.
More clues: Charley horses tend to rear up out of nowhere, often while you're just lying there. They can be a single sharp muscle spasm or come in waves. Either way, soreness can linger long afterward.
What to do: Try to flex the foot and massage the painful area. You may also be able to relax the muscle by applying a cold pack or rubbing alcohol. To prevent cramps, stretch your feet before you go to bed. Then drink a glass of warm milk (for the calcium).
4. Red flag: A sore that won't heal on the bottom of the foot
What it means: This is a major clue to diabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels lead to nerve damage in the feet -- which means that minor scrapes, cuts, or irritations caused by pressure or friction often go unnoticed, especially by someone who's unaware he has the disease. Untreated, these ulcers can lead to infection, even amputation.
More clues: Oozing, foul-smelling cuts are especially suspect because they've probably been there awhile. Other symptoms of diabetes include persistent thirst, frequent urination, increased fatigue, blurry vision, extreme hunger, and weight loss.
What to do: Get the ulcer treated immediately and see a doctor for a diabetes evaluation. Diabetics need to inspect their feet daily (older people or the obese should have someone do this for them) and see a healthcare professional every three months.
5. Red flag: Cold feet
What it means: Women, especially, report cold feet (or more precisely, their bedmates complain about them). It may be nothing -- or it may indicate a thyroid issue. Women over 40 who have cold feet often have an underfunctioning thyroid, the gland that regulates temperature and metabolism. Poor circulation (in either gender) is another possible cause.
More clues: Hypothyroidism's symptoms are pretty subtle and appear in many disorders (fatigue, depression, weight gain, dry skin).
What to do: Insulating layers of natural materials work best for warmth. (Think wool socks and lined boots). If you also have other nagging health complaints, mention the cold feet to your doctor. Unfortunately, however, aside from treatment with medication in the event of a thyroid condition, this tends to be a symptom that's neither easily nor sexily resolved.
6. Red flag: Thick, yellow, downright ugly toenails
What it means: A fungal infection is running rampant below the surface of the nail. Onychomycosis can persist painlessly for years. By the time it's visibly unattractive, the infection is advanced and can spread to all toenails and even fingernails.
More clues: The nails may also smell bad and turn dark. People most vulnerable: those with diabetes, circulatory trouble, or immune-deficiency disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis). If an older person has trouble walking, sometimes the problem can be traced to the simple fact that as infected nails grow thicker, they're harder to cut and simply go ignored to the point of pain.
What to do: See a foot specialist or your regular physician for care and treatment. In serious cases, over-the-counter antifungals are usually not as effective as a combination of topical and oral medications and the professional removal of diseased bits. Newer-generation oral antifungal medications tend to have fewer side effects than older ones.
7. Red flag: A suddenly enlarged, scary-looking big toe
What it means: Probably gout. Yes, that old-fashioned-sounding disease is still very much around -- and you don't have to be over 65 to get it. Gout is a form of arthritis (also called "gouty arthritis") that's usually caused by too much uric acid, a natural substance. The built-up uric acid forms needlelike crystals, especially at low body temperatures. And the coolest part of the body, farthest from the heart, happens to be the big toe.
"Three-fourths of the time, you wake up with a red-hot swollen toe joint as the first presentation of gout," says podiatrist Andersen.
More clues: Swelling and shiny red or purplish skin -- along with a sensation of heat and pain -- can also occur in the instep, the Achilles tendon, the knees, and the elbows. Anyone can develop gout, though men in their 40s and 50s are especially prone. Women with gout tend to be postmenopausal.
What to do: See a doctor about controlling the causes of gout through diet or medication. A foot specialist can help relieve pain and preserve function.
8. Red flag: Numbness in both feet
What it means: Being unable to "feel" your feet or having a heavy pins-and-needles sensation is a hallmark of peripheral neuropathy, or damage to the peripheral nervous system. That's the body's way of transmitting information from the brain and spinal cord to the entire rest of the body. Peripheral neuropathy has many causes, but the top two are diabetes and alcohol abuse (current or past). Chemotherapy is another common cause.
More clues: The tingling or burning can also appear in hands and may gradually spread up to arms and legs. The reduced sensation may make it feel like you're constantly wearing heavy socks or gloves.
What to do: See a physician to try to pinpoint the cause (especially if alcohol addiction doesn't apply). There's no cure for peripheral neuropathy, but medications from pain relievers to antidepressants can treat symptoms.
9. Red flag: Sore toe joints
What it means: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a degenerative joint disease, is often first felt in the smaller joints, such as the toes and the knuckles of the hands.
More clues: Swelling and stiffness usually accompany the aches. This pain tends to be symmetrical; for example, it happens simultaneously in both big toes or in both index fingers. RA develops more suddenly than degenerative arthritis, and attacks may come and go. Women are almost four times more affected than men.
What to do: A full workup is always needed to pinpoint the cause of any joint pain. For RA, there are many medications and therapies that can minimize pain and preserve function, though early diagnosis is important to avoid permanent deformity. (In the feet, the toes can drift to the side.)
10. Red flag: Pitted toenails
What it means: In up to half of all people with psoriasis, the skin disease also shows up in the nail as many little holes, which can be deep or shallow. More than three-fourths of those with psoriatic arthritis, a related disorder that affects the joints as well as the skin, also have pocked, pitted nails.
More clues: The nails (fingers as well as toes) will also thicken. They may be yellow-brown or have salmon-colored patches. The knuckle nearest the nail is also likely to be dry, red, and inflamed.
What to do: A variety of medications can treat both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and can restore the nail bed surface in many cases, especially if treatment begins early.
11. Red flag: Being unable to raise the foot upward from the heel
What it means: "Foot drop" (also "drop foot") signals nerve or muscle damage that can originate well north of your feet -- as far as your back or even shoulder or neck. Certain chemotherapy drugs can also cause trouble lifting the front part of the foot while walking or standing.
More clues: There may be pain and numbness as well, though not necessarily. Sometimes the pain is felt in the upper leg or lower spine, where a nerve is pinched (by damage or a tumor). In some cases, the foot drags when the person walks. It's rare for both feet to be affected.
What to do: Report this serious symptom to your doctor. Foot drop can be completely reversible or permanent, depending on its cause and treatment.
12. Red flag: Dry, flaky skin
What it means: Even if your face or hands tend to be powdery-dry, don't dismiss this skin condition on your feet. You don't have to be a jock to contract athlete's foot, a fungal infection that usually starts as dry, itchy skin that then progresses to inflammation and blisters. When blisters break, the infection spreads.
(The name comes from the moist places the fungus thrives -- places athletes tend to congregate, such as locker rooms and pools.)
More clues: Athlete's foot usually shows up between the toes first. It can spread to the soles and even to other parts of the body (like the underarms or groin), usually due to scratching.
What to do: Mild cases can be self-treated by bathing the feet often and drying them thoroughly. Then keep the feet dry, including using foot powder in shoes and socks. If there's no improvement in two weeks or the infection worsens, a doctor can prescribe topical or oral antifungal medication.
13. Red flag: Toes that turn patriotic colors
What it means: In cold weather, Raynaud's disease (or Raynaud's phenomenon) causes the extremities to first go white, then turn blue, and finally appear red before returning to a natural hue. For reasons not well understood, the blood vessels in these areas vasospasm, or overreact, causing the tricolor show.
More clues: Other commonly affected areas include the fingers, nose, lips, and ear lobes. They also feel cool to the touch and go numb. Women and those who live in colder climates get Raynaud's more often. It typically shows up before age 25 or after 40. Stress can trigger Raynaud's attacks, too.
What to do: See a doctor about medications that can widen blood vessels, which reduces the severity of attacks.
14. Red flag: Feet that are really painful to walk on
What it means: Undiagnosed stress fractures are a common cause of foot pain. The discomfort can be felt along the sides of the feet, in the soles, or "all over." These fractures -- they often occur repeatedly -- may be caused by another underlying problem, often osteopenia (a decrease in optimum bone density, especially in women over age 50) or some kind of malnutrition, including a vitamin D deficiency, a problem absorbing calcium, or anorexia.
More clues: Often you can still walk on the broken bones; it just hurts like heck. (Some hardy people have gone undiagnosed for as long as a year.)
What to do: See a foot doctor about any pain. If, for example, you've been walking around Europe for three weeks in bad shoes, your feet may simply be sore. But a 55-year-old sedentary woman with painful feet may need a bone-density exam. An X-ray can also reveal possible nutritional issues that warrant a referral to a primary care provider.
15. Red flag: Toes that bump upward at the tips
What it means: When the very tips of the toes swell to the point where they lose their usual angle and appear to bump upward at the ends, it's called "digital clubbing" or "Hippocratic clubbing" after Hippocrates, who described the phenomenon 2,000 years ago. It's a common sign of serious pulmonary (lung) disease, including pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Heart disease and certain gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease, are also associated with clubbing.
More clues: Fingers can be clubbed as well as toes. It can happen in just some digits, or in all.
What to do: Treatment depends on the underlying cause, so report this serious symptom to a doctor. (Physicians are also well trained to look for clubbed digits during exams.)
16. Red flag: Shooting pain in the heel
What it means: Plantar fasciitis -- a fancy name for inflammation of a band of connective tissue (fascia) running along the bottom (plantar) of the foot -- is abnormal straining of the tissue beyond its normal extension.
More clues: The pain starts when you take your first steps in the morning and often intensifies as the day wears on. It's usually concentrated in the heel (one or both) but can also be felt in the arch or in the back of the foot. Running and jumping a lot can cause it, but so can insufficient support. You're at risk if you go barefoot a lot or wear old shoes or flimsy flip-flops, have gained weight, or walk a lot on hard surfaces.
What to do: If pain persists more than a few weeks or seems to worsen, have it evaluated by a podiatrist. Stick to low shoes with a strong supportive arch until you get further advice and treatment (which may include anti-inflammatory drugs and shoe inserts).
17. Red flag: "Phee-uuuuw!"
What it means: Though smelly feet (hyperhidrosis) tend to cause more alarm than most foot symptoms, odor -- even downright stinkiness -- is seldom a sign something's physically amiss. (Whew!) Feet contain more sweat glands than any other body part -- half a million between the two of them! And some people are more prone to sweat than others. Add in the casings of shoes and socks, and the normal bacteria that thrive in the body have a feast on the resulting moisture, creating the smell that makes wives and mothers weep. (Both sexes can have smelly feet, but men tend to sweat more.)
More clues: In this case, the one olfactory clue is plenty.
What to do: Wash with antibacterial soap and dry feet well. Rub cornstarch or antiperspirant onto soles. Toss used socks in the wash; always put on a fresh pair instead of reusing. Stick to natural materials (cotton socks, leather shoes) -- they wick away moisture better than man-made materials. Open up laced shoes after you remove them so they get a chance to fully air out; don't wear them again until they're fully dry.
18. Red flag: Old shoes
What it means: Danger! You're a walking health bomb if your everyday shoes are more than a couple of years old or if walking or running shoes have more than 350 to 500 miles on them. Old shoes lack the support feet need -- and footgear wears out faster than most people think, foot specialists say.
More clues: Blisters (too tight), bunions (too narrow), heel pain (not enough support) -- if you're having any kind of foot trouble, there's at least a 50-50 chance your shoddy or ill-fitting footwear is to blame.
Older people are especially vulnerable because they fall into the habit of wearing familiar old shoes that may lack support, flexibility, or good traction,
Quoted : http://health.yahoo.net/caring/18-things-your-feet-say-about-your-health
Monday, February 21, 2011
Pouring water in limited light (Outline) with more details on the way
Thank You Holy Spirit for teaching me the following :)
Pouring out water from a pitcher into a cup in limited light.
Pouring out: Transfer out or transmitting
Water: Blessing, spiritual food
Pitcher: Source, Well
Cup: Container, Being, Destination
Limited Light: Blinded. Limited knowledge, limited sense.
How are we able to pour out water from a pticher into a cup.
First we need to ensure that the pitcher is filled with sufficient water. The nozzle that allows water to come out is in the Open configuration. Then after placing the Cup at the appropiate position, the pitcher is tilted at the correct angle to allow the water to flow out. As the water pours out, the speed of the transfer will be determined by the angle of the pitcher.
Too large of an angle, the water pours out too fast and too much that it will dislodge the lid. Too small of an angle, the water pours out slowly, or perhaps it does not at all and it will take forever to fill the cup up.
Secondly, we need to ensure the pitcher is above the cup and not the cup is above the pitcher. This follows the Law of Gravity Unless we are in zero gravity environment, then we will be using a straw into a water bag...or we can start to catch water.
The position of the cup opening is under where the water will flow out of the pitcher.
As one pours water into the cup, we know there is a limit of the cup. However in limited light, how can we gauge how much water has poured into the cup.
Here are a few things:
1. Volume of Cup: Knowing the volume of cup will help us know how much that the cup can hold. How much water it can hold comfortable, without overflowing. Presuming we are using a solid cup, the volume will be generally fixed. However, when we use a flexible container, it is difficult to hold onto the container although the volume could stretch.
2. Open surface of Cup: The surface area of the cup will determine how well and easy that the cup can receive water from the pitcher. The open surface of the Cup is also one of the determing factor, together with the depth of the cup to determine the volume of the cup.
3.Cup handle: Different shape of cup handle will also suit different type of hands and affect the ease of handling and maintain the cup. It may also affect the sensitivity of the hand, which may affect other sense, i.e sense of weight.
4. Closed, unleaking bottom: As clearly understood as it is, however in real life application, this can be neglected without notice until it forms a pool of water below the cup. This is important as limited light means limited visual detection.
5.Size of Pitcher: Size of the pitcher will determine the volume of water it can hold, and the weight required to lift it up. A pitcher that is too heavy to handle may require a different way of handling it
6. Shape of Pitcher: The shape of the pitcher will determine where the nozzle will be. It will also determine the ease of handling the pitcher.
7. Volume of Water in Pitcher: The volume of water in the the pitcher will determine the weight and the ease of handling the pitcher. It also determine the angle at which once the pitcher is tilted, and also how the water is being dispense.
8. Style of the nozzle: Different type of nozzle will have its effect on the water that is going to come out. A narrowed nozzle will force water, of a certain momentum, to narrow and cause the water to take a long pathway. A wide nozzle will allow more water to be dispense while there is lesser control. The pathway will be shorter for the same amount of momentum per volume of water.
Pouring out water from a pitcher into a cup in limited light.
Pouring out: Transfer out or transmitting
Water: Blessing, spiritual food
Pitcher: Source, Well
Cup: Container, Being, Destination
Limited Light: Blinded. Limited knowledge, limited sense.
How are we able to pour out water from a pticher into a cup.
First we need to ensure that the pitcher is filled with sufficient water. The nozzle that allows water to come out is in the Open configuration. Then after placing the Cup at the appropiate position, the pitcher is tilted at the correct angle to allow the water to flow out. As the water pours out, the speed of the transfer will be determined by the angle of the pitcher.
Too large of an angle, the water pours out too fast and too much that it will dislodge the lid. Too small of an angle, the water pours out slowly, or perhaps it does not at all and it will take forever to fill the cup up.
Secondly, we need to ensure the pitcher is above the cup and not the cup is above the pitcher. This follows the Law of Gravity Unless we are in zero gravity environment, then we will be using a straw into a water bag...or we can start to catch water.
The position of the cup opening is under where the water will flow out of the pitcher.
As one pours water into the cup, we know there is a limit of the cup. However in limited light, how can we gauge how much water has poured into the cup.
Here are a few things:
1. Volume of Cup: Knowing the volume of cup will help us know how much that the cup can hold. How much water it can hold comfortable, without overflowing. Presuming we are using a solid cup, the volume will be generally fixed. However, when we use a flexible container, it is difficult to hold onto the container although the volume could stretch.
2. Open surface of Cup: The surface area of the cup will determine how well and easy that the cup can receive water from the pitcher. The open surface of the Cup is also one of the determing factor, together with the depth of the cup to determine the volume of the cup.
3.Cup handle: Different shape of cup handle will also suit different type of hands and affect the ease of handling and maintain the cup. It may also affect the sensitivity of the hand, which may affect other sense, i.e sense of weight.
4. Closed, unleaking bottom: As clearly understood as it is, however in real life application, this can be neglected without notice until it forms a pool of water below the cup. This is important as limited light means limited visual detection.
5.Size of Pitcher: Size of the pitcher will determine the volume of water it can hold, and the weight required to lift it up. A pitcher that is too heavy to handle may require a different way of handling it
6. Shape of Pitcher: The shape of the pitcher will determine where the nozzle will be. It will also determine the ease of handling the pitcher.
7. Volume of Water in Pitcher: The volume of water in the the pitcher will determine the weight and the ease of handling the pitcher. It also determine the angle at which once the pitcher is tilted, and also how the water is being dispense.
8. Style of the nozzle: Different type of nozzle will have its effect on the water that is going to come out. A narrowed nozzle will force water, of a certain momentum, to narrow and cause the water to take a long pathway. A wide nozzle will allow more water to be dispense while there is lesser control. The pathway will be shorter for the same amount of momentum per volume of water.
10 dirty fruits and veggies.
10 dirty fruits and veggies.
by Health.com, on Tue Feb 8, 2011 10:27am PST
By Ashley Macha
Are the fruits and vegetables you buy clean enough to eat?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) studied 100,000 produce pesticide reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to create a list of 49 of the dirtiest and cleanest produce.
So before you hit the grocery store, see how some of your favorite fruits and veggies measured up.
Did one of your favorites make the list? Don't worry, the EWG recommends purchasing organic or locally grown varieties, which can lower pesticide intake by 80% versus conventionally grown produce.
Celery
This stalky vegetable tops the dirty list. Research showed that a single celery stalk had 13 pesticides, while, on the whole, celery contained as many as 67 pesticides.
Chemicals fester on this vegetable as it has no protective skin and its stems cup inward, making it difficult to wash the entire surface of the stalk. It’s not easy to find locally grown celery, so if you like this crunchy veggie, go organic.
Peaches
Peaches are laced with 67 different chemicals, placing it second on the list of most contaminated fruits and vegetables. They have soft fuzzy skin, a delicate structure, and high susceptibility to most pests, causing them to sprayed more frequently.
Health.com: 10 heart-healthy dessert recipes
Strawberries
This red, juicy fruit has a soft, seedy skin, allowing easier absorption of pesticides. Research showed that strawberries contained 53 pesticides. Try to buy strawberries at a local farmer’s market for a sweet dessert.
Apples
Apples are high-maintenance fruit, needing many pesticides to stave off mold, pests, and diseases. The EWG found 47 different kinds of pesticides on apples, and while produce washes can help remove some of the residue, they’re not 100% effective.
Blueberries (domestic)
These antioxidant-rich berries have a thin layer of skin that allows chemicals to more easily contaminate the fruit. Domestic blueberries were loaded with 13 pesticides on a single sample, according to the EWG. Imported blueberries also made the list at No. 14 for the dirtiest produce.
Health.com: 10 refreshing blueberry recipes
Sweet bell pepper
This crunchy, yet thin-skinned, vegetable is highly susceptible to pesticides. According to the EWG, sweet bell peppers showed traces of 63 types of pesticides. While some pesticides can be washed away, many still remain.
Spinach, kale, collard greens
These leafy green vegetables are on the list, with spinach loaded with 45 different kinds of pesticides and kale 57.
In 2006, Dole recalled bagged baby spinach after multiple E. coli illnesses associated with the vegetable made their way across the country.
Health.com: 10 foods that can make you sick
Grapes (imported)
These tiny fruit have extremely thin skins, allowing for easy absorption of pesticides. And think twice before buying imported wine. The grapes that go into the wine could be coming from vineyards that use too many pesticides.
Potatoes
Have you ever indulged in a potato skin at your favorite restaurant? You might want to think twice before eating the skin. This spud was highly laced with pesticides—36, according to the EWG—that are needed to prevent pests and diseases.
Health.com: 5 new ways to savor your spuds
Cherries
Cherries, like blueberries, strawberries, and peaches, have a thin coating of skin—often not enough to protect the fruit from harmful pesticides.
Research showed cherries grown in the U.S. had three times the amount of pesticides as imported cherries. Because cherries contain ellagic acid, an antioxidant that neutralizes carcinogens, it’s worthwhile to buy organic or seek imported ones. .
.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/10-dirty-fruits-and-veggies-2451593/
by Health.com, on Tue Feb 8, 2011 10:27am PST
By Ashley Macha
Are the fruits and vegetables you buy clean enough to eat?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) studied 100,000 produce pesticide reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to create a list of 49 of the dirtiest and cleanest produce.
So before you hit the grocery store, see how some of your favorite fruits and veggies measured up.
Did one of your favorites make the list? Don't worry, the EWG recommends purchasing organic or locally grown varieties, which can lower pesticide intake by 80% versus conventionally grown produce.
Celery
This stalky vegetable tops the dirty list. Research showed that a single celery stalk had 13 pesticides, while, on the whole, celery contained as many as 67 pesticides.
Chemicals fester on this vegetable as it has no protective skin and its stems cup inward, making it difficult to wash the entire surface of the stalk. It’s not easy to find locally grown celery, so if you like this crunchy veggie, go organic.
Peaches
Peaches are laced with 67 different chemicals, placing it second on the list of most contaminated fruits and vegetables. They have soft fuzzy skin, a delicate structure, and high susceptibility to most pests, causing them to sprayed more frequently.
Health.com: 10 heart-healthy dessert recipes
Strawberries
This red, juicy fruit has a soft, seedy skin, allowing easier absorption of pesticides. Research showed that strawberries contained 53 pesticides. Try to buy strawberries at a local farmer’s market for a sweet dessert.
Apples
Apples are high-maintenance fruit, needing many pesticides to stave off mold, pests, and diseases. The EWG found 47 different kinds of pesticides on apples, and while produce washes can help remove some of the residue, they’re not 100% effective.
Blueberries (domestic)
These antioxidant-rich berries have a thin layer of skin that allows chemicals to more easily contaminate the fruit. Domestic blueberries were loaded with 13 pesticides on a single sample, according to the EWG. Imported blueberries also made the list at No. 14 for the dirtiest produce.
Health.com: 10 refreshing blueberry recipes
Sweet bell pepper
This crunchy, yet thin-skinned, vegetable is highly susceptible to pesticides. According to the EWG, sweet bell peppers showed traces of 63 types of pesticides. While some pesticides can be washed away, many still remain.
Spinach, kale, collard greens
These leafy green vegetables are on the list, with spinach loaded with 45 different kinds of pesticides and kale 57.
In 2006, Dole recalled bagged baby spinach after multiple E. coli illnesses associated with the vegetable made their way across the country.
Health.com: 10 foods that can make you sick
Grapes (imported)
These tiny fruit have extremely thin skins, allowing for easy absorption of pesticides. And think twice before buying imported wine. The grapes that go into the wine could be coming from vineyards that use too many pesticides.
Potatoes
Have you ever indulged in a potato skin at your favorite restaurant? You might want to think twice before eating the skin. This spud was highly laced with pesticides—36, according to the EWG—that are needed to prevent pests and diseases.
Health.com: 5 new ways to savor your spuds
Cherries
Cherries, like blueberries, strawberries, and peaches, have a thin coating of skin—often not enough to protect the fruit from harmful pesticides.
Research showed cherries grown in the U.S. had three times the amount of pesticides as imported cherries. Because cherries contain ellagic acid, an antioxidant that neutralizes carcinogens, it’s worthwhile to buy organic or seek imported ones. .
.
Quoted: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/10-dirty-fruits-and-veggies-2451593/
Suffering...The Road to Godliness
One of the greatest privileges we have as believers is the grace of suffering. Many may not see suffering as a privilege, but it is one of the few things that we can share in with Christ. We might never go through anything like being crucified on the cross, but living in this world, we will face persecution of many kinds as His sons and daughters.
As Christ is the Head, and we the body, there is a fellowship of condition, a sympathy of suffering of the closest character. Most assuredly there is a sense in which we could have no actual participation in the sufferings of our Lord-the sense in which those sufferings were expiatory. But mystically, the church suffered with the Head. And having begun in suffering, suffering more or less, tracks our course to glory.
In the Bible, Jesus said "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). If we die with Christ, we also celebrate in His resurrection, knowing that when we suffer, we also share in His glory. "Suffering is inseparable from true godliness."
Living Life
As Christ is the Head, and we the body, there is a fellowship of condition, a sympathy of suffering of the closest character. Most assuredly there is a sense in which we could have no actual participation in the sufferings of our Lord-the sense in which those sufferings were expiatory. But mystically, the church suffered with the Head. And having begun in suffering, suffering more or less, tracks our course to glory.
In the Bible, Jesus said "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). If we die with Christ, we also celebrate in His resurrection, knowing that when we suffer, we also share in His glory. "Suffering is inseparable from true godliness."
Living Life
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