Muscle Up Your Memory

Around the time we hit 30, our brains begin a slow, steady downward trajectory, or so popular wisdom would have it.

But cognitive decline is by no means an inescapable side effect of aging. In fact, according to a flurry of new reports, you can counteract age-related changes in the brain with a surprisingly simple regimen of activities guaranteed to nurture and fortify your mental musclepower. Here are seven easy ways to keep your brain quick, sharp, and bristling with youthful vigor.

1. Google Often

When you search the Internet, you engage key centers in your brain that control decision-making and complex reasoning.

And these few clicks may be more mentally stimulating than reading, say UCLA scientists. Their studies found that Internet searching uses neural circuitry that's not activated during reading--but only in people with prior Internet experience. MRI results showed almost 3 times more brain activity in regular Internet searchers than in first-timers, suggesting that repeated Googling can be a great way to build cognitive strength over time.

Tip: Spend around 20 minutes a few days a week searching topics you've always wanted to learn more about—regardless of how seemingly frivolous: Whether you're researching a celebrity's latest pratfalls or musical harmony, the benefits to your brain are the same.

2. Exercise

Yes, exercise can stave off or delay dementia—but did you know it can actually reverse brain aging too?

A team from the University of Illinois' Beckman Institute recently reviewed dozens of past studies and found that aerobic exercise boosts not only speed and sharpness of thought but also the volume of brain tissue. As little as 50 minutes of brisk walking 3 times a week was found to have this brain-expanding effect.

Tip: For an added boost, walk in the park: University of Michigan researchers found that volunteers whose course took them through a tree-filled setting performed 20% better on memory and attention tests than those who walked downtown.

3. Brush and Floss

Oral health is clearly linked to brain health, according to a team of British psychiatrists and dentists.

After studying thousands of subjects ages 20 to 59, they found that gingivitis and periodontal disease were associated with worse cognitive function throughout adult life—not just in later years.

Tip: Follow your dentist's advice—floss daily and brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least once a day.

4. Drink Sparingly

Limiting cocktails is beneficial for cognitive function.

Keep your alcohol consumption within the safe and healthful limit: no more than one drink a day. The more alcohol a person drinks, the smaller his or her total brain volume becomes, according to a recent Wellesley College study. The link between drinking and reduced brain volume was stronger in women—probably because smaller people are more susceptible to alcohol's effects.

Tip: If you like a glass of white wine with dinner, make a spritzer by replacing some of the wine with sparkling water. You'll cut your intake even more.

5. Eat Blueberries

New research shows that the purple-hued fruits may help sharpen your thought processes.

After National Institute on Aging and Tufts University researchers injected male rats with kainic acid to simulate the oxidative stress that occurs with aging, rats that had been fed a diet containing 2% blueberry extract did better navigating a maze than rats that didn't get the compound. In another study, the same researchers found that rats that ate blueberries showed increased cell growth in the hippocampus region of the brain. The researchers theorize that anthocyanin—the dark blue pigment found in blueberries—is responsible for these cognitive changes; it contains chemicals that may cross the blood-brain barrier and lodge in regions that govern learning and memory.

Tip: Stock up on blueberries when they're on sale, and sprinkle them over your cereal or yogurt or fold them into your smoothie. Off-season, buy them frozen; they're every bit as nutritious as fresh.

6. Do Puzzles

Amazingly, you'll knock a decade off your cognitive age.

In a University of Alabama study of nearly 3,000 older men and women, those who participated in 10 60-to 75-minute sessions of brain-boosting exercise sharpened their mental abilities so much that their brains performed like those of people more than 10 years younger.

Tip: Start small—whip out a booklet of basic puzzles when you're riding to work on the train or waiting in a long checkout line. As your skills improve, graduate to more challenging brainteasers.

7. Meditate
More than just a great stress reliever, meditation can also enhance your brain’s gray matter

Participants in a new study from Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston appear to have experienced growth in the cortex, an area of the brain that controls memory, language, and sensory processing. In addition, meditators in a University of Kentucky study performed better than their non-meditating counterparts on a series of mental acuity tests.

Tip: Make the practice a regular habit—the participants in a recent study meditated an average of 40 minutes a day. But you can start with 15 on your lunch break or before you leave for work. Sit upright, close your eyes, and focus on whatever you're experiencing in the present moment, whether it's birds chirping in the distance or just the sound of your own breathing.

Get Smarter Every Day: Give your mind a workout—and boost memory, concentration, vocab, and more, with Prevention.com’s brain games.

Time sure Flies...Now to Catch up

I can not believe more than a month has past since I have posted here. Life is sure keeping me busy...My mom always said...as you get older, you will see that time sure flies. She's right.

I have encountered good and bad times, happy and sad occurrences, but life is good. I have reconnected with a couple girlfriends and it's such a warm feeling to have them back in my life. Oh, for one reason or another, you lose touch. Maybe they have gotten married or moved away, but when you are talking with one of your female friends after a long gap of silence,it's such a good feeling to pick up where you left off...as if time stood still. You find the bond is still there. Makes you feel almost giddy...laughing, sharing. Your spirit is definitely lifted.

Let's see...what else...um, I started a new business, which happened only because I thought I was helping a friend out. To my surprise, I am quite impressed with the company I have become affiliated with. It truly is a company by woman, for woman. I'm speaking about Avon. They sure want you to succeed and give you everything to make that happen. I have to say I am truly pleasantly surprised with what I have experienced thus far and to think I only spent $10 to get it all started. The best money I've spent. The website they gave me is remarkable and it's free. Ladies (or the men out there), if you want to make some extra money, this is something to look into. It's like having your own personal mentor...teaching you about business, marketing, products etc with the courses they provide you combined with a motivational coach in your corner..how can you go wrong?!

I am now looking forward to a trip to Florida in October. My girlfriend and I are escaping for a few days to relax. Can't wait...

I hope you all have been well and life is treating you kindly. I will be posting on a more regular basis and getting back to my routine.

Do You Have a Collectible and Memorabilia Hobby?

Do you have a love for collectibles and/or memorabilia?

I have a few collectibles that I add to on an occasional basis. My collection of angels, wild cats and carousel horses are becoming quite big. When ever I am out and about, I'll pick up an item or the people in my life knowing I collect certain items, will pick one up for me.

This can be a favorite hobby for some or it can even turn into a career. I started collecting carousel horses as a kid. My favorite ride on the boardwalk at the shore was...you guessed it...the carousel. I loved the painted horses...the music.
My collection of angels stemmed from an experience that made my belief grow stronger. My tigers and lions are just a pleasure to see. Those animals are beautiful.

If you have a collection, what made you start? Are they for decorative purposes or do you have a personal reason for the theme which your collection revolves around? I know some collect for the monetary value. Collectibles and memorabilia have become big business. There are an abundance of marketers that offer many items. To make your buying experience easier and have product information, price comparisons and user reviews all in once place and at your fingertips, the best resource will probably be www.shopwiki.com. It won't be necessary for you to go through page after page.

Collectives and memorabilia make great gifts. There a literally thousands of items people collect. Sport items, TV and movie memorabilia,childhood toys, rocks, coins and stamps, Elvis memorabilia, decorative items, cards and the list can go on and on. If you know someone that has a passion for a certain item, why not pick them up an item. I am sure they would love that you took the time to add a keepsake to their collection.

Inspirational Tips to Follow

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone..

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's,we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Tip: Eat Out and Save Money

Here's a tip I wanted to pass along. Whether you go out to eat for business purposes or personal, you can save up to 15% at about 10,000 bars, restaurants and clubs nationally. I found this information while reading the magazine…Business Week Small Business. This FREE opportunity is called Rewards Network
How the program works:

If you're not already a member, just enroll in the program and register your credit or debit card. Then, simply dine out at a participating location when Cashback Rewards are being offered and use your registered card to pay.

There are no additional cards to carry, coupons to print, or numbers to remember. And you can manage your cards and view rewards anytime in your online My Account Center. Neighborhood bistros. Fine-dining restaurants. The hottest bars and clubs. Rewards Network includes thousands of great places throughout the United States and Canada so you'll always find something to suit your tastes.

When you login and search for participating places on this site, you will see helpful information about the establishment as well as when you can earn Cashback Rewards. When you join Rewards Network online today, you'll save up to 15% every time you dine out at participating restaurants, bars and clubs. That's 15% of your entire bill–drinks, tips and tax included!

Your Cashback Rewards(SM) will be credited back to your registered credit or debit card shortly after you dine out. And remember: The level of savings depends on how often you dine out and with which bonuses you participate.

While I was on the Rewards Network Home page, I did a search for my area. I was surprised how many places you can receive discounts at. Do a search for any area to see participating establishments.

Well, I thought I’d just pass this information along. I know a lot people use coupons and a lot who are interested in saving a few bucks here and there. So, here’s another way to save some money, but not have to worry about coupons or looking tacky using a coupon to pay for a business dinner/lunch.

Check it out for yourself...go HERE

The Mayonnaise Jar and 2 CUPS OF COFFEE

Some of you may have already read this inspirational story, but it is one of my favorites. Someone had emailed it to me again and I took that as I 'reminder'.

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 Hours in a day is not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.

and the story goes....

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large
and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar.
He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.

He then asked the students again if the jar was full.. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it in to the jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.

The students responded with an unanimous "yes."

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table
And poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively
filling the Empty space between the sand.. The students laughed.

"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that
this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things - God, family, children, health,
friends, and favorite passions -- things that if everything else was lost
and only they remained, your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, house, and car.

The sand is everything else -- the small stuff.

"If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued,
"there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff,
you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

So...

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.
Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups.
Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18.

There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.

"Take care of the golf balls first -- the things that really matter.
Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented.

The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked".

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."

Foods to Eat to Look and Feel Younger

While skimming through a magazine, an article caught my eye on what foods to eat to look and feel younger. I think we all want to feel and look younger, don’t you agree?

You can avoid wrinkles, protect your heart and keep our mind sharp by eating properly. The top foods that can give you these results are:

Sunflower seeds: These have the highest natural vitamin e content and no antioxidant is better at fighting off the aging effects of free radicals. Other great sources of vitamin E are swiss chard, Total Cereal and Propel Fitness Water.

Spinach and Beans: A research study showed that out of 400 elderly men and women who ate the most leafy green vegetables and beans had the fewest wrinkles. Hmmm. Spinach and beans are full of compounds that help prevent and repair wear and tear on your skin cells as you get older.

Red Wine and Grape Juice: These help protect you from heart attacks and strokes. The antioxidants called polyphenols found in grapes can also help middle aged skin from sagging.

Sweet Potatoes: Over exposure to the sun is one of the primary reasons for aging prematurely. Pigments from beta carotene rich foods, like sweet potatoes and carrots, can build up in your skin. This helps prevent damage from ultraviolet rays.

This next one surprised me.

Coffee: It is said to be nature’s most potent elixirs. Coffee has shown in numerous studies to retard the aging process, fight off Alzheimer’s disease and enhance short term memory.

QUALITY OF LIFE BEGINS IN YOUR MIND

It's not what you have, but what you enjoy that constitutes your abundance.
Your real riches are riches in your head and heart.

Wealth without enjoyment is little consolation.
True satisfaction comes from appreciating what you have.

There are two ways of being happy:
you must either diminish your wants or augment your means.

It's always better to appreciate things you cannot have
than to have the things you cannot appreciate.

Your riches will always lie within you, not in your material possessions.

© Copyright 2008 www.yourdailymotivation.com
Reproduce freely but maintain Copyright notice.

The Benefits of Emu Oil

I just posted information regarding Emu Oil on my Mind, Body & Soul blog and thought I'd pass it along here.

This oil has many, many benefits and is a natural product that can be used for a variety of conditions. From anti-aging to medicinal. This oil is considered to be a 'natural wonder'

I just made my purchase of pure emu oil and intend to use it as a facial moisturizer. At my age, I could use alittle extra help to rejuvenate my skin.

Read my post What is Emu Oil?

Make Money Online Taking Pictures

I have come across an unique opportunity and wanted to share the information with you.

Do you have a passion for photography? Or do you find that you are the 'one' in the crowd always with a camera? This opportunity shares with you the information necessary to turn your love of picture taking into money.

When I first started my website,I needed pictures to correspond to my content. You can view some pictures I bought by viewing my website here. I joined istock photo and had to pay for the use of those pictures. I assume all businesses with websites, brochures, newsletter etc, need to do the same thing. You can not simply 'steal' a picture from someone and use it for your own personal or business use.

I have been reading about the demand of amateur photos. I know that if your pictures are accepted at one of these photo sites, there is a chance for your
picture(s) to be bought and then there's an additional chance of repeat sales. That money can quickly add up.

If you think about all the sites on the Internet and all the businesses that are in need of pictures, there is an opportunity here to make some extra money.

The program I am referring to is called Photo Wealth System and it's not free, but I noticed it's only $29.95. That's really not a huge amount of money to spend if the system works.

I have read the landing page and it makes sense to me, so I may be trying this out myself. Read the page yourself and see what you think. Click here This company also lists additional bonuses that come with a purchase.

A home based business can be born for a stay at home mom, college student or anyone wanting extra monthly income. I consider it a fun way to earn some cash, not work.

I immediately thought of the many niches that pictures can be used for...real estate, home and garden, financial and the list goes on and on.

I'd be interested in hearing if anyone who does purchase this system is successful, so we can pass the news on to others. I need to wait until I buy myself a digital camera. I am still in the dark ages using my 35mm, which I can't seem to part with
:0)

Inspiration from The Duggar Family

My friend at work was talking with me about this show she had watched. She was so intrigued by this family that she made me want to learn more myself.

I am referring to The Duggar Family. This couple in their early forites have 18 children. 18! They have a reality show on TLC and can be viewed a few times each week. Check your local listings.

My boyfriend and I went to their website and we read every word this couple wrote. The inspiration...the strength...the love...the positive attitude...the faith...the encouragement...came soaring off the computer screen.

I don't believe for one second we happened upon this family by accident. You see...my boyfriend being a full time single Dad with two young children was feeling very overwhelmed and having doubts. Doubts about his parenting... about life...questioning his routines and disciplinary actions. Questioning how he can get his children to do their homework, chores and develop better hygiene habits without the constant struggle.

After reading the information on their website, he instantly felt better.He realized he was doing the right things, but just needed to reinforce certain house rules. Maybe his approach can be somewhat different. The support I was giving to him was confirmed by reading the Duggar's website and it made us both feel better. Somehow we even felt closer and we discussed other topics that we hadn't before. I believe my boyfriend is the best Dad and am very proud of him. I admire him so greatly for the things he does.

When through reading the Duggar's website, we knew we just had to watch their show. We watched one episode and absorbed the lessons learned.

Through their TV show, they share their rock-solid faith and their overriding belief that "children are a blessing from God." They also share the family routines and guidelines they've learned through biblical study and trial and error -- ideas that can help make your home a place of peace, love, and support.

By viewing their website and TV show, you can receive lessons on:
debt-free living,Organizing systems for a clutter-free home,
Homeschooling methods and schedules,Training tips for little ones
Relationship builders for older children,
Favorite Duggar family resources, homemade laundry soap recipe, plus other recipes that go a long way.

By no means do you need to be deeply religious to receive these life lessons or encouragement or feel the inspiration. You just need an open heart. I have never before seen a family like this one. They have such strong values, the love and the faith that make them unique and very successful. We all should be so lucky! Not too many people truly believe or live their beliefs...

Something that really struck me were their House Guidelines. I've posted them below to share because more people should live by these words.

The House Guidelines
* Always use soft words, even when you don’t feel well.
* Always display kind actions and joyful attitudes, even if you have been mistreated. Have the right response by quickly forgiving others in your heart even before they ask.
* Always be enthusiastic and look for opportunities to praise others' character.
* Always deflect praise and be grateful to God and others for the ways they have benefited your life.
* Always use manners and be respectful of others and their belongings.
* Always do what is right, even when others may not, or when no one is looking.
* Thank God for how He made you, for what He has given you and everything He allows you to go through. (Romans 8:28)
* Don’t mock or put others down. Develop compassion and pray for others.
* Never argue, complain, or blame. Quickly admit when you have done wrong and ask for forgiveness (even if you were only 10% at fault). Don't wait till you’re caught. * Be sure your sins will find you out. He who covers his sin will not prosper, but he that confesses and forsakes it shall find mercy.
* Have a tough accountability/prayer partner to daily share your heart with and to keep you in line (your parents, spouse). The power of sin is in secrecy.
* Be attentive and look for ways to serve others with sincere motives and no thought of self-gain. * Think pure thoughts (Philippians 4:8, Romans 13:14).
* Always give a good report of others. Don't gossip! Never tale-bear unless physical harm will come to someone. (Use Matthew 18.)
* Never raise a hand to hit.
* Never raise a foot to kick.
* Never raise an object to throw.
* Never raise a voice to yell.
* Never raise an eye to scowl.
* Use one toy/activity at a time. Share!
* Do your best to keep your surroundings neat, clean and organized.
* Never let the sun go down on your wrath. (Don’t go to bed angry or guilty)
* Amendment J.O.Y. -
Put Jesus first, Others second, Yourself last.

If you need a dose of inspiration, encouragement, faith, love, support etc...please do check out their website and/or watch this show. You WILL be glad you did

Breakthrough at OrganicSkinCare.com

I believe the term 'organic' is becoming more popular now a days. I find that organic products are not as costly as they once were. Whether it is the food we eat which is produced organically or ingredients in the products we buy that are organic.

Healthier and safer, not only for our bodies, but for our environment. I myself have noticed when buying body and skin care products, I opt for the organic ingredients contained within. I realize the synthetic ingredients do more harm than good.

Emerge Organic Skin Care is now available. The labs at Emerge have developed a breakthrough technology which protects our skin stem cells. This process tackles the chronological aging process that we all face....literally on our face. Who wants to look older than you feel? Certainly not me.

This technology enhances the production of human skin stem cells and protects our cells from stress. We all realize what stress can do to our bodies. On our face, it causes wrinkles, changes in skin tone etc...

Emerge Labs Skin Care promotes self-renewal of our skin. Studies have shown that the cells from a rare Swiss apple protects our skin stem cells. Using a patent-pending organic ingredient, called PhytoCellTec Malus Domsestica and plant cell culture technology, this is considered to be a breakthrough in anti-aging. This application maintains the function of our skin stem cells.

Take a look for yourself and develop your own opinion. If you want organic skin care products that are effective and good for your skin, you can find them at OrganicSkinCare.com.

Review of Free Tele-Seminar ~ Call 1

My previous post, entitled: FREE Tele Seminar 1/14 & 1/21 was an alert to the Proactive Profits~How to strategize, plan & take action for a profitable 2009 tele-training, which was offered by Jane Deuber of Profit Partners.

I did take advantage of Part 1 and sat in on this tele-training. I felt is was an hour spent wisely. Truthfully, I had heard many of the things she spoke about, but she had a different approach to explaining things, which gave you a renewed feeling of inspiration and/or motivation. I think we all could use that reinforcement now and then.

Ms. Deuber offered something that she presented in a much different way than I was used to. She spoke about the 4 Realms of Business Success: Vision, Mindset, Strategy and Action. These four parts flow into one another. If one section is off…meaning out of balance or you being stuck and not moving forward, non of the other 3 parts will function properly. Within each of these four parts are sub-divisions

Vision: Dreams, Passions, Purpose, Inspiration, Contribution

Mindset: Beliefs, values, Inner Dialogue, Language, Emotion

Strategy: Planning, Skills & Knowledge, Scheduling, Tools, Alignment

Action: Accountability, Effort, Assessment, Correction, Daily Habits

Examples:

Say you started with Vision…If you are not sincere in your dreams, passions, purpose, inspiration or contribution…how could you move on to Mindset, Strategy or Action? How can you succeed? Or move forward? If you absolutely do not believe in your dreams, passions, purpose, inspiration or contributions, you will not have the motivation or willingness to accomplish any of your goals . Isn’t that why so many people loose interest in something? They just don’t have the passion to continue…it fades into nothing and then they wonder….what happened?

Ok… take Strategy…you already feel you have the ‘vision’ and the mindset and you continue onto Strategy. You think you have that down, but then you’re feeling stuck…things in your business aren’t where you want them to be. You’re not sure what tools can help you. You did not believe in or write down your Plan. Because the Realm of Strategy is off balance, you can’t move forward to take “action”.

I think this is a great tool not only for business, but in our personal life too. Whatever it is we want to be successful in….business, goals, breaking habits, relationships and so on. To be successful, we must give 100% in each of these 4 Realms, which includes each subdivision.

I personally am going to write these 4 Realms (including sub-divisions) within a circle, cut it out and place it where I can see it at least once a day. It can be a daily reminder and also encouragement to make the best of each day and motivate to complete each part successfully. To have one, you must have the other… to move forward and be successful, you ‘need’ the other realms. All 4 must be in balance.

I am not sure if you can still register for Part 2 of this tele-seminar. You may want to check it out, by going HERE

Part 2 of this tele-seminar will include:

· What two elements you absolutely must have in place to thrive in 2009
· The four stages of business growth and why they are essential to your success
· Where to invest your time and resources for the greatest return
· Three low-cost strategies that every business owner should harness
· The top three mistakes business owners make when executing their plan

I will have access to the recordings of these two tele-seminars. If anyone is interested, please contact me at: andrea@acassociatesusa.com and I will give you the link. I do believe this is time spent wisely if you allow yourself the opportunity.

Remember, these same tactics can be used in all areas of your life., so if you’re thinking it’s of no use to you because you do not have your own business…you’re wrong.

Acobay

Looks like another new social network has hit the internet.
It's being labeled as a sharing site.

Acobay lets their members join for free and connect with one another by their "stuff", meaning their shared interests. You add to your wishlist, topic or anything else you want to share and find others who are interested in the same thing.

Another free resource to use as promotion of yourself, your blog, website, products or services.

Conquer Your Addiction

If you look up the word 'addiction' in the dictionary, you will find it to mean:

The quality or state of being addicted-compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance (as heroin, nicotine, or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal broadly persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful

Some people who are suffering with an addiction to a substance fail to recognize this fact. They go on living ...well, addicted.They fail to see how living this way causes harm to not only themselves, but those around them. Maybe they get a wake up call by way of some negative happening, but what do they do next?

First, I think a person has to admit they do have a problem. Next, they have to truly want to help themselves. I know a few people who decided to try to quit their addiction by themselves. Sometimes this does work and sometimes it does not.

Accepting or getting help is not a sign of weakness. I think If they are willing to get the help to heal themselves, it is something to be proud of.

If you know someone who is addicted to a substance and they do not know what to do, it probably is a good idea to have them seek the advice of a professional.A private drug rehab may be the choice many make to help with their healing.

Promises is such a place where a person can receive individualized care by a dedicated team of professionals. They provide an environment in which a person will feel safe and learn how to live in the real world without the addiction.

Treatments include cognitive-behavior therapy, family therapy, support groups,other individual therapy and counseling services which will strengthen the mind, body and spirit.

Taking the first step may be hard for a person living with an addiction, but in the end, it will be the best decision they will make. You can Conquer an addiction.

If you want to learn more on what you can expect from a private rehab like Promises, click Here

FREE Tele-Training 1/14 & 1/21

Here's a quick heads up about a f-r-e-e Tele-training I know you'll want to check out. It's being offered by Jane Deuber, an incredible business strategist and coach who has helped thousands of business owners take their business to the next level.

The 2 call training is entitled "Proactive Profits - How to strategize, plan and take action for your most profitable year yet."

I've already reserved my complimentary seat on the calls and want to encourage you to do the same. Do so right away though because space is really limited.
As Jane says, to ensure success in these economic times we must commit to two important things…
1) Growing personally so we can be more effective and
joyful in business and in life.

2) Working with a proven plan that keeps us focused on
taking the steps that will create the greatest results.

Here's what you do next…
To reserve your spot on Jane's f-r-e-e Tele-Training simply click on the link below.
You'll receive the call in details right away.
Click here to reserve your spot!

We can all use some inspiration and innovative strategies for making 2009 a great year. Let me know if you'll be on the call!

Register Your Number at DO NOT CALL

If you were not aware of this, Cell Phone Numbers Go Public this week. This means our cell numbers are up for grabs for all the sales calls and the telemarketers out there.

REMINDER... all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies this week and you will start to receive sale calls.

I know everyone has a job to do and I don't have a bad word to say about anyone being a telemarketer, but...getting several calls a day or more, is a bit much.

To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone:
888-382-1222.

It is the National DO NOT CALL list. It will only take a minute of your time. Telephone numbers placed on the National Do Not Call Registry will remain on it permanently due to the Do-Not-Call Improvement Act of 2007, which became law in February 2008

You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different phone number.

After your number has been registered for 31 days, you will stop receiving telemarketing calls. If you do receive calls after this time period, you can file a complaint by going to: www.donotcall.gov

There is Such a Thing as Short Term Insurance

Here is a true story that happened to me while being out on FMLA leave in October/November. Some of you know that I had back surgery in October. Due to a disagreement on the amount of FMLA leave I had left to use, my employer only gave me two weeks of covered time. This meant I had 4 weeks of uncovered time while I was home recuperating. I was taken off my medical insurance due to a reduction of hours and they offered me Cobra. Anyone who has dealt with Cobra knows the cost is quite high, so I opted out and decided to take a chance without insurance coverage. I knew I would be put back on medical insurance once I returned to work.

I just found out there is such a thing as Short Term Insurance. What I did by taking a chance was not the smartest decision, for you never know. I wouldn't suggest others follow my lead. You should always cover yourself and your family with medical insurance. Accidents and illness happens and when you least expect it. Medical care is quite expensive and the security of having medical insurance helps with costs.

MultiNational Underwriters at http://www.mnui.com/ offers the Amigo Short Term Medical Plan, which is temporary insurance in your time of need. I sure wish I had known about this earlier.

This company is a full service organization which offers many insurance products to address the needs of consumers worldwide: Short term travel insurance, US citizens and non citizens working or living abroad, International students Insurance are just a few examples. You can chat live with one of their representatives for more information or request a Free quote for short-term coverage.

If you are in a situation where you may find yourself without insurance such as unemployment or in transition from one job to another or if like me, you are offered Cobra for another reason, here is an opportunity to protect yourself. You may also need insurance if you travel, but your regular insurance cannot cover you or for students continuing their education abroad this company should be kept in mind.

Banking Lesson ~ Pay Close Attention to Your Account Details

Something I will be doing in 2009 is to watch over my bills and banking even closer than I have been. Due to identity theft last year, I pay close attention to all the details of my accounts.

I use the toll free automated account information my bank offers almost on a daily basis to make sure all is well. I guess it became a nervous habit since the identity theft situation.

On Friday I had a dispute with my bank. I knew my balance was wrong for some reason and when I called the bank, they said a 'fee' was taken out of my account because it was overdrawn when a check was presented. I knew that wasn't true, so I looked further into this situation.

Calling the bank again, I received the most ridicules response. I was told the automated system is not current for debit card use and I shouldn't depend on that for current balance information. What? Why would a bank then offer such account information? I depend on my bank to give me 'current' information. Then it was suggested that I use my ledger to keep track of my transactions. Duh...Thank you for the advice... I do, but I also have everything in my head. That is why I knew something wasn't right with my balance. I use my debit card for most of my transactions. Writing checks only about once or twice a month. And, I happen to know that debt card purchases ARE immediately taken from your account.

Anyway, not caring for the silly replies I was receiving, I spoke to a manager, who insisted I was overdrawn when a check was presented on 12/26. um...I have a deposit slip from the same day showing hundreds of dollars. How is this possible? The manager suggested I use their online banking to actually see the transactions that have posted, are pending etc..., which affect my balance.

I was a bit leary to do this due for fear of identity theft, but I thought... let me see what this manager is speaking about. It was the best thing I did! I was able to find not only one mistake, but TWO!

The check that supposedly overdrawn my account on the 26th, the bank took the fee out on 12/24...um, wait a minute. Then they took another fee out on the 26th. I couldn't believe it. The online banking was showing a positive balance on the 24th, why take out a fee? Meanwhile, looking at the deposits, I noticed they had me in arrears online on the 26th (even though there were 3 deposits on that day).I also had in my hand, a deposit slip showing a balance with hundreds of dollars from that same day.

I got in my car Saturday and headed to the bank with a print out of the online banking and my deposit slip. The woman at the bank didn't know what to say, but did offer that what they look at on their screen, is different than my online banking.

What????? Is she now saying that not only is the automated information not current, but the online banking system isn't either??? She said the check was really presented on the 24th even though it states otherwise on the online system. It really doesn't matter because there was money in my account either day. I was questioning the fees taken from me.

She couldn't put back the fees in my account until it was approved from her supervisor, who of course wasn't working that day. Now it has to wait until tomorrow.

The lesson here and my suggestion to all is to really pay attention to your account details. So what if it takes alittle extra time. There are possibilities of error. And I'd much rather have the money in my pocket than give it to companies for errors 'they' cause. Those fees removed from my account amount to over $70...Can you imagine the money that bank makes if they do this to even half their customers nationwide????

Be smart...be on top of things and don't just settle for explanations the company gives you. If something doesn't sound right or make sense, dig further until it does.

PS: The bank I'm speaking about is The Provident Bank and if they do not immediately put back those fees on Monday, I will be making a complaint with my State Banking and Insurance Department, so they can look into my banks unique practices. I have proof in black and white, so I doubt there will be any problems.

Making New Year Resolutions

The New Year is just about here. This is a time when we reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year. I for one am definitely looking forward to 2009. I had my speed bumps of life this past year with health issues, but going through all I did, has brought many life lessons and also positive things that I wouldn’t change for anything. I guess you need to go through things to learn, grow and change; whether negative or positive.

New Year’s Eve is a night when so many people make resolutions or promises to themselves. Are you one of many making New Year resolutions and believe they will keep them? But then do you realize that throughout the year, you didn’t really keep the resolutions at all. I used to make a few resolutions myself, but always had trouble keeping them. Now I set goals that are more reachable for myself. I don’t want to set myself up for disappointment or failure, so if I have a bigger goal I’d like to succeed at, I break it down into parts.

Setting our expectations too high, can make us fall short sometimes. We get caught up in the moment, announce our resolution before realizing we’ve built up this goal in our mind. Our excitement about making a change or a chance at bettering ourselves is great for the moment, but what about in the long term? Will we still feel as excited as the day we made our resolution?

That’s where I fall short at times. I get caught up in the moment and then months pass and I am less enthused about the resolution or change I wanted to make. I now break down my goals into smaller parts and think about the change I want to make on a daily basis. This helps keep things in perspective for me. You can say, ‘the smaller picture, brings the bigger picture into focus’ and I stay interested.

I also use affirmations to help keep me on track with my resolutions. Affirmations provide me with support and a positive ‘feel good’ optimism that often feels like a pat on the back….the ‘I can do it’ feeling.

Here’s an affirmation from Hope Cramer that I found at About.com. It’s a great reminder and one to repeat to yourself.

“New Beginnings are like forks in a road or new blades of grass. So many ways our lives can go…so many choices. Each choice and each piece of our lives make up a part of who we are. I affirm that this is a beautiful new year, a new day, full of amazing ways in which I will improve my life now”

Start each new day or end each night by reading Affirmations.

About.com brings to you Affirmations by the Day or by the Month

Wishing you all good health, much abundance, happiness… with love, peace and light in your life