Thursday, February 5, 2009

Go Beyond "I Love You" This Valentine's Day

Though Valentine's day is generally associated with celebrating romantic love, it is a perfect time to tell all of your loved ones how much they mean to you. One of the most meaningful ways in which to do so, is to tell them directly. Too awkward and embarrassing you say? Not a problem. Let your pen or keyboard do the talking for you.

Whether writing a note, letter or including a letter on a scrapbook page, be sure to go beyond just saying "I love you." Not that there's anything wrong with saying it. The thing is that although those three little words convey a deep sense of caring for someone, they are inherently vague and do not communicate why it is we love someone. What is it that you appreciate, love or admire about the person? Have they been there for you through thick and thin? Have they offered unconditional love and support? Have they been your shoulder to cry on? Does the person inspire you to reach for your dreams and accomplish you goals? Be sure to detail the things that make them special to you. Aside from the time invested in writing the note or letter and the ink and paper, it will cost you nothing. Yet, it will be more meaningful than you can imagine. Don't be surprised if your note or letter is later tucked away by the recipient of your kind words in a safe and special place (such as a bible or treasure box) and revisited in the years ahead.

Lilia L. Fallgatter, JD is a writer, speaker, interpersonal communication specialist, adult Education Administrator and author of "The Most Important Letter You Will Ever Write, How To Tell Loved Ones How You Feel ~ Before It's Too Late." She has written articles and e-books on self-improvement and personal growth topics and considers it her mission to help others improve their lives. Visit her website and blog at http://www.lovingletter.com and http://www.lovingletter.com/wordpress

©2008 Lilia L. Fallgatter

Sunday, December 21, 2008

7 Ways to Change Your Lifestyle and Get Out of Debt

Getting out of debt is never an easy process but there are ways that you can make the process go quickly. The first thing that you need to do when looking at ways to get out of debt is to take a look at exactly where all the money is going and coming from. This gives you a clear picture of your financial situation and provides you with a good start in finding ways to redirect finances. Many people don't realize how much of their money goes into things that aren't necessary and while they are things that we all enjoy and want to keep, it's a small sacrifice to pay to get rid of some of these things for a time in order to give yourself more money to work with in paying off your debt.

- One of the biggest expenses is eating out. A basic meal for two in a fast food or family style restaurant can cost about twelve dollars not including the tip. If you eat out multiple meals on multiple days, it can add up to a considerable amount. Taking that money and adding it to grocery or other bill money, you can increase your resources.

- The next thing to consider is expenses, like extra cable channels, or cable service itself.

- Consider monthly subscriptions to websites, book clubs, or other services, which you can do without for a time.

- When you go to the grocery store, consider purchasing the store brand versus name brand. You can save almost fifty percent on your grocery bill.

- If you go to the movies frequently consider waiting until it is available for rent.

- Heading to the bar after work is a great way to relax but it can also be a serious expense consider cutting back the days you go or stopping entirely.

- Finally consider shopping habits. If you are going out make a list and stick to the list. This will help you maintain a budget and help you to get out of debt faster.

These are just some of the ways that you can change your lifestyle in little ways in order to give yourself the money necessary to get out of debt quickly without having to take drastic measures such as second or third jobs or refinancing your home in your to pay off your debt.

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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Jungle King Secrets - A Libido-Liberating Lifestyle by Paul Adcock - Book Review

Loving Healing Press (2008)

ISBN 9781932690491

I was not able to find much information on the author except the fact that he was born in Detroit, Michigan and now resides in a suburb of the same. "Jungle King Secrets" happens to be his first book but I am sure it will not be his last.

Does size matter? Find out in Paul Adcock's book "Jungle King Secrets"--his detailed study of this and many more life-enhancing questions are answered in this 251-page volume. His main thrust is on how to improve your love life through the use of diet and exercise. He speaks of "World Class Wellness" and shows how to handle that ever-growing concern among men, "the erection." Mr. Adcock describes how nutrition of the body relates to our sexual prowess in, "Factory-Farming and Sexual Function." He instructs the reader in the proper use of nutrition and even better, what not to eat or do for sexual superiority; which food and drinks to avoid and others to eat more of. Not smoking was at the top of the list along with overindulgence. Paul cautions everyone on the dangers of smoking and emphasizes the fact that too much wine can hinder a man's performance. I could sympathize with what he means here and I am sure I'm not alone when I say, "it doesn't help a man's partner to overindulge either."

Further on, Paul explains the dangers of sexual pharmaceuticals. The risks involved in taking so-called, erection-amplifying drugs or aphrodisiacs. Such libido enhancers have hidden chemicals that are detrimental to the human body and Mr. Adcock cautions the reader on their use and abuse. One of my personal favorite chapters was, "The Secret of the Sexual Super Heroes." Mr. Adcock refers to the "Grand Master Tu Jin-Sheng" and the teachings of "Taoism." "Taoism" is not a political doctrine but rather a wisdom tradition. Followers observed the organic lifestyle and learned to harness the life force of creation called "energy cultivation (Qi Gong)." They learned that this practice made it possible for them to be more sexually superior and less susceptible to sickness and disease.

The power of sex is exemplified in this very well-documented and researched book. How Mr. Adcock was able to compile so much helpful information into only 251 pages is amazing. I had no problem giving this book an A rating. The research was thorough and well documented, the writing was unquestionably well done and "Jungle King Secrets" is a quality product that is well worth reading.

Reviewed by William Phenn for Reader Views (02/08)


Stress Free Lifestyle For Single Moms - The Top 7 Tips to Diffuse Your Stress

The best gift you can give yourself as a single mom constantly juggling many balls at the same time is a stress free lifestyle. Lifestyle for single moms need not be stressful; it can be relaxing, fun and enjoyable. Here are some tips for attaining that:

Tip 1 - Take Slow, Deep Breaths - Stop what you are doing and take long, slow, deep breaths without having your mind race through the many things you need to get done all at once. Taking 1 to 2 minutes of deep breadth whenever you need to will help release stress.

Tip 2 - Clear the Tension in Your Body - Loosen up and relax any tensed muscles from the jaw to your neck, shoulder, arms, chest, hamstrings, knees, calves and ankles. Unwind your body and hang loose. You will feel more composed.

Tip 3 - Clear Your Mind - Things can get overwhelming when we try to multitask. You think you are saving time but you are not able to give careful attention to any one of the task you are multitasking. Choose one thing to work on at any one time and work your way through them one by one.

Tip 4 - Clear Your Vision - Know what is the one thing you are pursuing so you do not end up running after all the good thing you want to have. Do not allow the many good things to cloud out the one thing that you are pursuing.

Tip 5 - Clarify Your Purpose - Know why you are doing what you are doing. When your activities are aligned with your values, the activities will not seem burdensome but instead a mission and a joy which brings fulfillment.

Tip 6 - Choose Your Perspectives - Life can be heavy and monotonous while we grind through what needs to be down or it can be fun filled. What if we see each day as a chapter in a play and you the main actress? Ask how you can lighten up the stressful moments as you go about your daily tasks.

Tip 7 - Clear the Junk! - Throw away mindsets, attitudes, activities, plans that do not help contribute to the one thing you are pursuing. You will have more time and space for living and enjoying a stress free life.

Apply these tips and you can live stress free lives. Better still, be in a community with other single moms and share lessons learnt applying these tips. Being able to talk about your experiences in a safe and supportive environment itself will help releases stress. Find a community in your area and get supported.

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Dubai Lifestyle - The History of the City and Day to Day Life in Dubai

Background Information to the United Arab Emirates and Dubai: -

Dubai is one of the seven states that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it is located in the Middle East. The UAE borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is situated between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 by the then ‘Trucial States’ after their independence from Britain.

The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, the council is made up of the seven emirs and they appoint the prime minister and the cabinet for the country. Despite being ultimately ruled by the Supreme Council, as with the other six states, Dubai maintains a large degree of autonomy from the UAE when it comes to general decision making for the city’s development.

Oil was first discovered in the United Arab Emirates in the 1950s, before that the country’s economy was built on fishing and pearling, since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting the oil, the country's economy has been completely transformed.

Sheikh Zayed, who has been the president of the UAE since its inception, quickly understood the economic potential for the country from the oil industry. He has continued to ensure that each of the emirates benefits from the oil generated wealth, he has insisted on the reinvestment of oil revenues into the healthcare system, the education system and the general national infrastructure.

The development of the oil industry has led to a large influx of foreign workers to the UAE, in fact Dubai’s population is the fastest growing in the world and the foreign population makes up about three quarters of the entire UAE population! As a direct result of this fact the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs tolerated. Dubai has also been quick to understand the need for diversification. Oil in the region is only projected to last for about 30 years and so Dubai has successfully embarked upon a major diversification program aimed to at developing industries and commercial enterprises to take the place of oil as the predominate commodity of the state's economy.

The climate in Dubai is sub-tropical and arid or desert like. The city enjoys almost year round sunny blue skies. Rain is infrequent and if it does fall, it falls in the winter.

Temperatures range from lows of 10°C to extreme summer highs of 48°C. The average maximum daily temperature in January is 24°C and the average maximum daily temperature in July is 41°C when humidity is very high.

About the city of Dubai

Dubai is recognised as the commercial and tourism capital of the UAE and is globally regarded as one of the most sophisticated, futuristic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, in fact Dubai is something of a phenomenon! It is an Arab Muslim society with the fastest growing foreign population in the world, and it has successfully developed harmony through ethnic diversity. It is a city with unrivalled levels of economic energy and architectural ambition, a unique city of contrasts where the most modern and architecturally stunning skyscrapers stand alongside traditional beautiful Arabic structures.

The experiences and attractions available in Dubai are many and varied. From the miles of immaculate beautiful white sandy beaches to the richly exotic Arabian heritage, from the awe inspiring majesty of the desert to the lively international bars, restaurants and nightclubs – a visitor to Dubai is guaranteed an incredible, never to be forgotten experience.
In 2003 Dubai was voted safest holiday destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and in fact Dubai is recognised globally as one of the safest cities in the world. Living in Dubai you will find that it is virtually crime-free with the Dubai police ensuring personal safety and security. Anyone found guilty of committing a serious crime will be severely punished. Alcohol and drug related offences are considered serious.

The economy of the city of Dubai is a mainly service-driven economy, with every business amenity from banking to telecommunications offered. International trading and industrialisation are actively encouraged through the provision of favourable taxation advantages, offshore status, specialist free trade zones etc. Recent innovative projects in the city include the foundation of Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, bringing 21st century technology to Dubai in the world's very first ‘Free Zone’ wholly dedicated to e-business.

Day to Day Life in Dubai

Accommodation

If you are considering moving to Dubai one of your first thoughts will no doubt be finding somewhere to live. This is not something you’ll find too tricky, there are many companies advertising rental accommodation in the classified sections of local newspapers and they offer everything from private villas to luxury apartments or even shared accommodation. Whatever your budgetary and lifestyle requirements are, the specialist relocation and housing companies will be sure to have something to assist you. If you prefer to find your accommodation privately and avoid any agency costs, many people use supermarkets notice boards to advertise or request accommodation.

In terms of which areas of the city offer the type of accommodation you are after, Jumeirah, Umm Sequiem and the Safa Park area are upmarket and offer villa-type accommodation. Satwa and Garhoud also offer villas but are slightly cheaper. Rashidiya, Mirdif and Al Quoz are mainly Arabic areas and they actually attract a lot of expats.

If you are after an apartment the most popular areas are around Bur Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Road with cheaper flats are available in Deira, Satwa and Karama. Some of the more exclusive apartment developments offer shared gym and pool facilities together with garaged car parking and the like.

Education

If you are considering moving to Dubai with family and are interested in finding out about the education system and the availability and quality of schools, one of the best ways is to ask around! Because of the numbers of expats in Dubai there is actually a large number of primary and secondary schools from which you can to choose. Most schools are private fee paying schools and really the best way to get an idea of the reputation of a school is to ask friends, colleagues and other expats who live in Dubai. Many of the schools also have their own websites where you can learn about the curriculum they follow, after school programs etc.

When it comes to enrolling your child in the UAE there are a few restrictions you should be aware of. For example you are not allowed to change your child’s school during the academic year…unless approval is given by the Ministry of Education and the circumstances are ‘special’. This means that you have to make sure the school you choose for your child will definitely suit them. Another restriction you should be aware of is that is you move to Dubai on or after the 1st May each year you can’t enrol your child into the schooling system for that year. Instead you’ll have to enrol for the beginning of the new school year which is usually the beginning of September.

Health

Another consideration you may have if thinking about relocation to Dubai may be the state of the health care system available there. It is fair to say that Dubai has many very well equipped hospitals and surgeries. Dubai’s Department of Health and Medical Services runs Dubai, Rashid, Maktoum and Al Wasl hospitals, with Dubai Hospital one of the best medical centres in the entire Middle East. Al Wasl is a maternity and gynaecology hospital.

The Department of Health also run out patient clinics or surgeries and in addition there are a number of quality private hospitals in Dubai offering in and out patient facilities – e.g., The American and Welcare Hospitals. Overall both the private and publicly offered health care services in Dubai are first class.

Working

Working in Dubai you will enjoy a tax free salary and all shop goods can be bought at tax free prices, making it an incredibly attractive city to international workers and international companies. Job opportunities in Dubai and diverse and plentiful, particularly since the additions of the Media and Internet cities…Dubai is a city expanding its horizons at an unrivalled rate.

It is important to mention that some countries worldwide have tax laws enabling them to tax their nationals on their worldwide income. It is important to check your status with an international accountant before taking up employment in the city.

Lifestyle

Dubai has a thriving expat population who make the most of their tax free lifestyle in this amazing city of opportunity. The nightlife in the city is excellent, with cocktail bars, wine bars, themed bars and typical British or Irish pubs available, many of which offer food and entertainment as well.

High standard international cuisine is available in the city’s many restaurants and if you are looking for lively evening entertainment there are numerous night clubs around the city. Some of the clubs attract international DJs; there are also Middle Eastern, Indian and Asian nightclubs offering entertainment with singers and dancers. Dubai also welcomes international touring singing and entertainment acts which cater to all tastes and ages…from traditional theatre groups to ballet, from opera to international rock and pop bands - all are regular visitors to the United Arab Emirates.

You can be assured of an exciting pace of life in Dubai and a high standard of living.

Rhiannon Williamson is an experienced publisher who has produced articles for leading travel and tourism guides and financial magazines. Her specialist knowledge about both travel and finance gives her site Shelter Offshore the unique ability to literally cover every single aspect of moving & living abroad - including the often less discussed offshore tax advantages that can be available when leaving our homeland.