They say dreams are the windows of the soul--take a peek and you can see the inner workings, the nuts and bolts.
Henry Bromel,
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Need to Occupy the Kids this Summer? Get Them Involved in the Community
Need to Occupy the Kids this Summer? Get Them Involved in the Community
School is out and across the country many families now face the perennial seasonal dilemma: What should the kids do with themselves this summer? For a growing number of community-minded youngsters, the answer is: “Make a difference.”
“Summer is all about fun in the sun and taking a break from the rigors of school,” says Liz Scott of Wynnewood, Pa. “But kids really benefit from doing something more with their summer, like getting involved in the community or raising funds for a cause they believe in. Not only do they stay occupied, engaged and excited throughout the summer, they gain a real sense of their own strength and worth.”
Scott should know. Her daughter, Alexandra, gained national attention for her efforts to raise money for pediatric cancer research by holding lemonade stands. What started as a simple but passionate idea inspired a worldwide grassroots fundraising effort. Sadly, Alex passed away Aug. 1, 2004. Parents Liz and Jay continue promoting Alex’s cause and raising money for pediatric cancer research through their foundation, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), which has raised more than $19 million to date.
“Numerous studies show that volunteering holds many physical and mental health benefits for volunteers, regardless of their age,” says Pam Edwards of Volvo Cars of North America. To commemorate the life of Alex Scott, Volvo created the Alexandra Scott Butterfly Award to recognize exceptional child heroes.
Zach Bonner was named the 2008 Butterfly Award winner. To help victims of Hurricane Katrina Zach, 10, collected 27 truckloads of sundry items, raised $600 in donations for the Red Cross post-Katrina efforts and secured $7,000 worth of new toys and sporting equipment for homeless children living in Red Cross shelters. He also recently founded the Little Red Wagon Foundation, Inc., which collects and donates backpacks filled with food, school items and other supplies to disadvantaged children nationwide.
Getting kids involved can be as simple – or grand – as the children and parents wish. The efforts of past Butterfly Award winners can provide a roadmap for getting started:
* Look to the Internet.
“The Web is a great resource for finding a charity or volunteer opportunity that fits your child’s needs and personality,” Edwards says. For example, this year www.lemonadestandforlife.com, hosted by Volvo, gives visitors the chance to support ALSF. By visiting the site, you can make a direct donation by purchasing a cups of virtual lemonade for just $1. You can then share those cups via e-mail with others asking them to also visit and support the site’s mission.
* Look to current events.
News accounts of the need caused by Katrina inspired Zach Bonner to get involved. When Congress designated November National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, Zach launched a marathon walk from Tampa, Fla., to the state capital 250 miles away in Tallahassee. He and his team raised money and awareness for the nation’s estimated 1.3 million homeless children.
* Draw inspiration from your own life.
Alex Scott founded her lemonade stand as she was recovering from cancer treatment. Grace Farnan, 14, of South Hamilton, Mass., decided to become involved in hospice care after her grandmother peacefully passed away in hospice care. Her work with the Hospice of the North Shore has included collecting hundreds of new picture frames for patients to keep photos of loved ones close at hand, and the creation of more than 500 guest books in which visitors, family and staff can write encouragement for patients. Grace was recognized as the 2006 Butterfly Award winner.
* Don’t be afraid to reach far.
In addition to efforts to help Florida’s hurricane-affected residents, Samita Mohanasundaram, 16, of Nashua, N.H., also helps disadvantaged children in India. When she was just 7, she visited a small, impoverished village in southern India and was moved by the local school’s need for books, supplies and materials. Upon returning home, she launched a book drive that drew support from all over New England. In 2007, Samita became the third child to win the Butterfly Award.
To learn more about the Butterfly Awards and to help raise funds to fight pediatric cancer, visit www.lemonadestandforlife.com.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Dance While You Can...
I will not stand to the side and allow the music in my heart to fade away and die.
I will dance to my own life song.
I will dance to my own life song.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Cost-Saving Strategies for 2008 Back-to-School Shopping
Cost-Saving Strategies for 2008 Back-to-School Shopping
Rising gas and food prices are putting the economic squeeze on most American households, and it’s already time to begin back-to-school shopping. Families with school-age children are expected to spend over $500 on back-to-school merchandise, according to the National Retail Federation.
They’ll also likely spend many days driving from store to store to get all the right items. It’s no wonder parents are looking for creative ways to save money and limit their time in the car.
“The kids may look forward to some new sneakers or the most stylish new backpack as a welcome silver lining to going back to school, but for parents finding a bargain and saving time becomes vital at this time of year,” says Theresa Boldrini-Laird, shopping expert for NearbyNow.com. “Planning, preparation and patience can help parents save money and limit the amount of time spent in the car.”
Here are some easy ways to save time and money when seeking back-to-school bargains this year:
* Remember that saving time is just as important as saving money. While online shopping may seem like an easy way to save time, many shoppers – including parents – are turning to a new shopping strategy that capitalizes on the Internet’s information-gathering power and the unbeatable immediacy of buying in a store.
NearbyNow, a California-based Web site, allows consumers to log on and search for specific merchandise at more than 200 local shopping malls across the country (go to http://www.nearbynow.com/ to find a mall near you). As a bonus, some shoppers who put items on hold may even get it for free thanks to the HOLD IT. WIN IT.(TM) for Back to School promotion.
Using the Internet or a mobile phone, parents can check the in-store availability of a much-needed item in 10 minutes or less, and if desired, put the item on hold for pick-up at a nearby store in the mall. Shoppers receive an e-mail or text message claim check to remind them where and when to pick up the item, and the claim check may also have other special offers from nearby stores. The NearbyNow service eliminates both hours and gas spent traveling to and from multiple store locations, shipping costs and time spent waiting for online orders to arrive.
* Make your list and check it twice. “It may sound so simple, but making a list is a great organizing tactic that too many people overlook,” Boldrini-Laird says. To draw up your list, first take stock of what your kids already have, and remember to think beyond just notebooks and pens. Do they need new Converse sneakers or will the pair you bought at the beginning of summer do just fine? Can they reuse last year’s backpacks, or can they use a new style with wheels? Does your teen desperately “need” a new cell phone – you know, the one that everyone has. Or does your college-bound child require a laptop? Be sure you know what you really need to buy.
* Decide on a budget and stick to it. Your budget should be generous enough to cover all the necessities and a few “extras” to make your kid feel cool at school. Get kids involved in budgeting; it’s a great way to teach them how to manage money. Plus, if everyone knows up front how much can be spent – and on what – you’ll possibly head off a few arguments.
* Shop smart. Take advantage of back-to-school sales, and visit retailers’ Web sites to print out coupons. Many offer online-only coupons to reward committed deal-hunters. As much as possible, avoid using credit cards to fund back-to-school purchases of short-lived items like schoolroom supplies, backpacks, clothes or sneakers.
To save money on gas, consider doing your back-to-school shopping in a single trip and carpool with other parents also tackling seasonal shopping.
“Smart shopping strategies may never really ease some kids’ desire to avoid going back to school and extend summer fun forever,” Boldrini-Laird says. “But they can definitely make the back-to-school experience more cost-effective, time-friendly and stress-free for parents.”
Courtesy of ARAcontent
They’ll also likely spend many days driving from store to store to get all the right items. It’s no wonder parents are looking for creative ways to save money and limit their time in the car.
“The kids may look forward to some new sneakers or the most stylish new backpack as a welcome silver lining to going back to school, but for parents finding a bargain and saving time becomes vital at this time of year,” says Theresa Boldrini-Laird, shopping expert for NearbyNow.com. “Planning, preparation and patience can help parents save money and limit the amount of time spent in the car.”
Here are some easy ways to save time and money when seeking back-to-school bargains this year:
* Remember that saving time is just as important as saving money. While online shopping may seem like an easy way to save time, many shoppers – including parents – are turning to a new shopping strategy that capitalizes on the Internet’s information-gathering power and the unbeatable immediacy of buying in a store.
NearbyNow, a California-based Web site, allows consumers to log on and search for specific merchandise at more than 200 local shopping malls across the country (go to http://www.nearbynow.com/ to find a mall near you). As a bonus, some shoppers who put items on hold may even get it for free thanks to the HOLD IT. WIN IT.(TM) for Back to School promotion.
Using the Internet or a mobile phone, parents can check the in-store availability of a much-needed item in 10 minutes or less, and if desired, put the item on hold for pick-up at a nearby store in the mall. Shoppers receive an e-mail or text message claim check to remind them where and when to pick up the item, and the claim check may also have other special offers from nearby stores. The NearbyNow service eliminates both hours and gas spent traveling to and from multiple store locations, shipping costs and time spent waiting for online orders to arrive.
* Make your list and check it twice. “It may sound so simple, but making a list is a great organizing tactic that too many people overlook,” Boldrini-Laird says. To draw up your list, first take stock of what your kids already have, and remember to think beyond just notebooks and pens. Do they need new Converse sneakers or will the pair you bought at the beginning of summer do just fine? Can they reuse last year’s backpacks, or can they use a new style with wheels? Does your teen desperately “need” a new cell phone – you know, the one that everyone has. Or does your college-bound child require a laptop? Be sure you know what you really need to buy.
* Decide on a budget and stick to it. Your budget should be generous enough to cover all the necessities and a few “extras” to make your kid feel cool at school. Get kids involved in budgeting; it’s a great way to teach them how to manage money. Plus, if everyone knows up front how much can be spent – and on what – you’ll possibly head off a few arguments.
* Shop smart. Take advantage of back-to-school sales, and visit retailers’ Web sites to print out coupons. Many offer online-only coupons to reward committed deal-hunters. As much as possible, avoid using credit cards to fund back-to-school purchases of short-lived items like schoolroom supplies, backpacks, clothes or sneakers.
To save money on gas, consider doing your back-to-school shopping in a single trip and carpool with other parents also tackling seasonal shopping.
“Smart shopping strategies may never really ease some kids’ desire to avoid going back to school and extend summer fun forever,” Boldrini-Laird says. “But they can definitely make the back-to-school experience more cost-effective, time-friendly and stress-free for parents.”
Courtesy of ARAcontent
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Fireworks Safety - Happy 4th of July
As July 4th approaches, your kids are probably thinking about sitting out on the lawn with family and neighbors, eating snacks, and watching beautiful fireworks bursting in the night sky. Summer celebrations can be a lot of fun. But what's the best way to ensure that your kids have both a fun and a safe July 4th this summer?
Fireworks, often the centerpiece of summer celebrations, can actually be very dangerous. According to Prevent Blindness America, from 1980-1994 fireworks accounted for 29 fires, 65 explosions, and 114 deaths. And, almost half of the injured are children ages 19 years old and under.
Sparklers are perhaps even more dangerous because many people think of them as harmless fireworks that children can use. But sparklers are the second highest cause of fireworks-related injuries requiring trips to the emergency room. Sparklers can potentially catch clothes or hair on fire, and they can heat up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit (hot enough to melt gold).
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Home for the Summer: Ten Happy, Healthy Ideas for Kids
That last school bell has rung and the kids are back home, enjoying all the pleasures that summer vacation offers. But there’s got to be more to life than sleeping until noon and sipping lemonade by the pool. Here are some more ideas to make sure your kids stay happy and healthy this summer.
1. Block the sun. Sunlight is great; but too much exposure can be dangerous. Cover the kids with generous amounts of waterproof sunscreen -- SPF of 30 or greater -- 30 minutes prior to any sun exposure. Be sure to reapply it every 30 minutes for maximum protection.
2. Take a hometown vacation. With gas prices soaring, summer vacations may need to be spent a little closer to home. Check out your hometown’s restaurants, museums or parks together as a family and pretend you’re tourists for a few days.
3. Keep active. Keep the kids up and moving with some fun games such as badminton, swimming or soccer. And, of course, never underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned game of hide and seek or catching fireflies at dusk.
4. Pick some produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are aplenty during the summer months. Gather the kids to visit a local farm or check out the local farmers market. With so many delicious choices this summer, your kids may actually eat their vegetables!
5. Stay hydrated. Enjoying the summer heat can sometimes lead to dehydration. Be sure to keep plenty of filtered water on tap and instead of letting the kids grab for sodas, enjoy some healthier treats such as juice spritzers or frozen fruit juice popsicles.
6. Start a reading club. Don’t let those brain cells get lazy during the summer. Reading is a great way to keep your kids’ minds active. Gather some of your children’s friends for meetings to discuss fun summer reads. If food is involved, turnout will be much higher -- guaranteed.
7. Record some memories. Make this a summer to remember. Arm the kids with a video camera to make family movies. Or, take still pictures and create an online scrapbook that you can share with friends and family.
8. Breathe easy. Hot, summer weather forces us to keep our doors and windows shut tight, trapping allergens and airborne molecules in our homes and in our lungs. Keep your home’s indoor air healthy by installing a whole-home air filtration system, such as AccuClean from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning.
9. Go around the world. Take a trip around the world without leaving your own home. Pick a different country or culture each week. Read books and create maps of the area. Wrap up your week of study by creating and enjoying a traditional meal from the region.
10. Have fun. Don’t over schedule your summer. Instead, use summer vacation to lighten your family’s load, kick back, and enjoy these long, golden days. Memories are created, not scheduled, so start creating some today.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
Monday, May 19, 2008
While I Still Can Dance...
I will take pleasure in the smiles that warm me
and in the hugs that always say "I Love You."
and in the hugs that always say "I Love You."
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Dance While You Can....
I will take time for God,
to read His Word,
to seek His direction for my life......
He is the Lord of the Dance.
to read His Word,
to seek His direction for my life......
He is the Lord of the Dance.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Neck and throat facial exercises
Facial exercises should be done once a day, and this regimen can be continued for your entire life, or you could scale down to three times a week, after completing a month of daily exercises.Some people report that minor spots or blemishes appear after starting facial exercises, and yes, it is normal.
Neck and throat facial exercises.
# 1 A great exercise is to sit upright, tilt your head back looking at the ceiling while keeping your lips closed and then start a chewing movement. You will feel the muscles working in your neck and throat area - and will be truly amazed at the results. Repeat 20 times.
# 2 Sit upright, tilt your head back looking at the ceiling, while keeping your lips closed and relaxed. Start puckering your lips together in a kiss and stretch the kiss, as if you were trying to kiss the ceiling. Keep your lips puckered for 10 counts, then relax, bring your head back to its normal position and repeat 5 times.
# 3 Sit upright, tilt your head back looking at the ceiling, while keeping your lips closed and relaxed. Open your lips and stick your tongue out as if you were trying to touch your chin with the tip of your tongue. Keep your tongue out in this position for 10 counts, and then return your tongue and head to its normal position.
# 4 Sit upright, tilt your head back looking at the ceiling, while keeping your lips closed and relaxed. Next move your lower lip over your top lip as far as possible and keep it there for a count of 5. Relax and repeat 5 times.
# 5 Lie on your bed, with your head hanging down over the edge. Slowly bring your head up towards your torso and keep it there for 10 counts. Relax and lower your head towards the floor again - repeat 5 times.
# 6 Sit upright and face forward and while keeping your lips together, separate your teeth by dropping your jaw and then push your jaw forward, keep for a count of 10, bring back to starting position and repeat 5 times
# 6 Sit upright and face forward and while keeping your lips together, separate your teeth by dropping your jaw and then push your jaw forward, keep for a count of 10, bring back to starting position and repeat 5 times
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Exercise For the Boomer Women Who Hate It
Exercise For the Boomer Women Who Hate It
Going to the gym is all very well for the women who can get to one easily, and enjoy exercising in front of other people and who look good in a leotard. As women for the boomer generation many of our body parts do not stay in the same shape compared to our college days. Exercise equipment at home is fine if you have the room to store the machine when you are not using it, and the self motivation and will power to pull it out from the closet or under the bed everyday. For many of us exercise screams of torture, pain, and unpleasantness, and it doesn’t have to be that way.
Boomers or better know as peri-menopause can be a really exciting time in your life because you are finally empty nesters freeing yourselves from child rearing and family duties. Yes our commitment to the family, is still very strong, doesn’t (or shouldn’t) require you to spend all your time and energies devoted to them. Boomers is the start of the ‘ME-years’, and can be the start of a whole new adventure in your life. Take the time to take care of yourself first for a change since the nest is empty and we are now in control of ME first the Boomer generation.
Take the time at least 3 – 4 times a week to do something that you enjoy or a hobby that can give you great pleasure and get a bit of exercise at the same time. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started.
Walking Activities – walking is one of the best types of activities you can do and the cheapest. Power walk in one way then stroll back home on the return trip. Look for collectables (flowers, rocks, shells, leaves) for creative work. Take your dog with you or a friend. If you are an urban dweller then take advantage of the early morning or evening to window shop- you won’t be tempted to shop because the shops won’t be open but you can keep yourself updated on what is going on in your area. Become a mall walker for others, as you never have to worry about the outdoor eliminate. For those readers that are near the water actually wading along the edge of a lake, stream or beach can be a pleasant way of increasing the exercise for your legs.
Swimming - Find the quietest times at your local pool or beach and enjoy a leisurely swim combined with some underwater exercises such as leg extensions and squats. My favorite is the same movement as Cross County skiing in water it gives the resistance to the areas we all need the most arms and legs while holding the tummy muscles in.
Dance around your house – add a touch of zest to the dusting or when vacuuming – turn the music up loud and dance to it as you work. Grab the dust mops and pertain it is your partner. Push and pull the mop handle. What ever you do get the pulse racing and make yourself feel good at the same time. This is another one of my favorites. It brings back my dance days in school which is good for the memory.
What ever you choose to do take a hobby or project you enjoy and get your heart pumping – that is all that is truly needed in exercise – have fun and enjoy it.
Marcia Chumbley is a work at home mom and grandmother in Minnesota. She is the owner of a Christian Work from Home Moms and Grandparents web site at http://www.faithfulgrannies.com/. Bringing generations of Christian Work From Home Moms, Grandmothers, Parents, Boomers and Families together while providing resources, inspiration and affordable advertising while balancing the work at home experience.
Article Source: http://www.faithfulgrannies.com
Going to the gym is all very well for the women who can get to one easily, and enjoy exercising in front of other people and who look good in a leotard. As women for the boomer generation many of our body parts do not stay in the same shape compared to our college days. Exercise equipment at home is fine if you have the room to store the machine when you are not using it, and the self motivation and will power to pull it out from the closet or under the bed everyday. For many of us exercise screams of torture, pain, and unpleasantness, and it doesn’t have to be that way.
Boomers or better know as peri-menopause can be a really exciting time in your life because you are finally empty nesters freeing yourselves from child rearing and family duties. Yes our commitment to the family, is still very strong, doesn’t (or shouldn’t) require you to spend all your time and energies devoted to them. Boomers is the start of the ‘ME-years’, and can be the start of a whole new adventure in your life. Take the time to take care of yourself first for a change since the nest is empty and we are now in control of ME first the Boomer generation.
Take the time at least 3 – 4 times a week to do something that you enjoy or a hobby that can give you great pleasure and get a bit of exercise at the same time. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started.
Walking Activities – walking is one of the best types of activities you can do and the cheapest. Power walk in one way then stroll back home on the return trip. Look for collectables (flowers, rocks, shells, leaves) for creative work. Take your dog with you or a friend. If you are an urban dweller then take advantage of the early morning or evening to window shop- you won’t be tempted to shop because the shops won’t be open but you can keep yourself updated on what is going on in your area. Become a mall walker for others, as you never have to worry about the outdoor eliminate. For those readers that are near the water actually wading along the edge of a lake, stream or beach can be a pleasant way of increasing the exercise for your legs.
Swimming - Find the quietest times at your local pool or beach and enjoy a leisurely swim combined with some underwater exercises such as leg extensions and squats. My favorite is the same movement as Cross County skiing in water it gives the resistance to the areas we all need the most arms and legs while holding the tummy muscles in.
Dance around your house – add a touch of zest to the dusting or when vacuuming – turn the music up loud and dance to it as you work. Grab the dust mops and pertain it is your partner. Push and pull the mop handle. What ever you do get the pulse racing and make yourself feel good at the same time. This is another one of my favorites. It brings back my dance days in school which is good for the memory.
What ever you choose to do take a hobby or project you enjoy and get your heart pumping – that is all that is truly needed in exercise – have fun and enjoy it.
Marcia Chumbley is a work at home mom and grandmother in Minnesota. She is the owner of a Christian Work from Home Moms and Grandparents web site at http://www.faithfulgrannies.com/. Bringing generations of Christian Work From Home Moms, Grandmothers, Parents, Boomers and Families together while providing resources, inspiration and affordable advertising while balancing the work at home experience.
Article Source: http://www.faithfulgrannies.com
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Quotable Quote
Attitude
In today's climate we often find ourselves searching for good news, and lately it's been hard to come by. And although we can't control what goes on in the world, here's a little good news...we can still control our attitudes. As Lincoln once said, "I've come to realize that people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
How is your attitude today?
In today's climate we often find ourselves searching for good news, and lately it's been hard to come by. And although we can't control what goes on in the world, here's a little good news...we can still control our attitudes. As Lincoln once said, "I've come to realize that people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
How is your attitude today?
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Making and Taking Time To Make A Difference.
Making and Taking Time To Make A Difference.
Would you like to make the world a better place to live in? Are you trying to see what you can do to make the world a better place? As time passes, are you worried about the planet? Are you interested in recycling or green living? Or maybe you would rather spend your time volunteering for something that you enjoy doing?
If you are interested in recycling your products from your house, you would first need to find a place to take your recycling to. Your town might have curb side pick up, which is where there is a separate bin to place anything that can be recycled in. You fill this bin up and place it with the garbage on the curb and there is a separate truck that comes through and picks it up. Most of the time with curbside pick up, you do not have to separate your items into different categories.
If your city does not offer curbside pick up, you can ask them if there are drop of locations in the city or town for recycling. If there are, then you are responsible for keeping items separate in your home before taking them to the center. When you start taking your recycling to the center, you might ask them and see if there has been any interest expressed in local curbside pick up in your area. If they say no, let them know that you are interested. See if you can get others in your neighborhood interested.
Making environmentally sound decisions doesn't have to be difficult. If you swap out disposable items in your household to things that can be reused, you're well on your way. Swapping out paper towels for cloth napkins, swapping out tissues for handkerchiefs, and using cloth rags to clean with are all great changes to make. If you are thinking that you will spend the same amount now in water that you did before on the disposable products, think again! There is a slight increase in water, but only by a few cents. Just think of all the money that you will be saving from not having to buy these products every time that you go to the store.
If you would like to spend some of your time volunteering for other people, this is another great way to make the world a better place. Volunteering gives you something to do and allows you to give back to your community at the same time. Call your local city hall for a list of all the different places that you can volunteer. A few options might be a local soup kitchen, a local nursing home, a battered women’s shelter, a local library, or even a local hospital. Most all places love to have volunteers and some places are completely run by volunteer workers. Many places appreciate their volunteers because it gives them extra help that they otherwise might not be able to afford.
Improving the world you live in doesn't have to be difficult or costly. You can make the world a better place by volunteering, making environmentally sound choices, and recycling. Your children and grandchildren will appreciate the effort you put into the planet.
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
Would you like to make the world a better place to live in? Are you trying to see what you can do to make the world a better place? As time passes, are you worried about the planet? Are you interested in recycling or green living? Or maybe you would rather spend your time volunteering for something that you enjoy doing?
If you are interested in recycling your products from your house, you would first need to find a place to take your recycling to. Your town might have curb side pick up, which is where there is a separate bin to place anything that can be recycled in. You fill this bin up and place it with the garbage on the curb and there is a separate truck that comes through and picks it up. Most of the time with curbside pick up, you do not have to separate your items into different categories.
If your city does not offer curbside pick up, you can ask them if there are drop of locations in the city or town for recycling. If there are, then you are responsible for keeping items separate in your home before taking them to the center. When you start taking your recycling to the center, you might ask them and see if there has been any interest expressed in local curbside pick up in your area. If they say no, let them know that you are interested. See if you can get others in your neighborhood interested.
Making environmentally sound decisions doesn't have to be difficult. If you swap out disposable items in your household to things that can be reused, you're well on your way. Swapping out paper towels for cloth napkins, swapping out tissues for handkerchiefs, and using cloth rags to clean with are all great changes to make. If you are thinking that you will spend the same amount now in water that you did before on the disposable products, think again! There is a slight increase in water, but only by a few cents. Just think of all the money that you will be saving from not having to buy these products every time that you go to the store.
If you would like to spend some of your time volunteering for other people, this is another great way to make the world a better place. Volunteering gives you something to do and allows you to give back to your community at the same time. Call your local city hall for a list of all the different places that you can volunteer. A few options might be a local soup kitchen, a local nursing home, a battered women’s shelter, a local library, or even a local hospital. Most all places love to have volunteers and some places are completely run by volunteer workers. Many places appreciate their volunteers because it gives them extra help that they otherwise might not be able to afford.
Improving the world you live in doesn't have to be difficult or costly. You can make the world a better place by volunteering, making environmentally sound choices, and recycling. Your children and grandchildren will appreciate the effort you put into the planet.
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
Color Coding and Organization
Color Coding and Organization
As we enter the New Year, our thoughts often turn towards organization of home and office. The key to developing an organized home is to develop a series of systems that work within your home, making it easier to find the things you need. Color coding is one great way to streamline your home and make it easier to access items quickly.
There are many areas of your home that can be color coded. Adding a touch of color can help you organize papers, laundry, clothing, and so much more. Here are a few simple tips to get you started on the right track to organization.
Papers
Paper clutter is one of the worst offenders – it seems to breed when you look away. Mail, bills, letters, and papers to be filed pile up in the office, on the front table, and beside the reading chair. Corral the paper clutter once and for all by developing an organized, color coded filing system.
Pick a basket that will hold file folders, and place it near where you open your mail. Now, add colored folders for each type of mail you receive – To Read, To Pay, To Do, and To File. Keep a small trash can in this area, as well. As you open the mail, place each item in the appropriate folder, or throw it away if its junk. Your mail is organized, ready for the next time you file or pay bills – all you have to do is grab the appropriate folder!
Laundry
Whether you live in a home with children, or an empty nest, laundry is a major obstacle to overcome. Color coded bins can be a huge help, as even the smallest child (or the most housework impaired spouse) can recognize a bin by color.
Pick a color for each member of the family, and place it in the area where they change clothes. On laundry day, have them bring their bins to the laundry room. As clothes are washed, dried, and folded, place them in the bin of the owner, to be returned to their room and put away. This system allows you to sort clothing as you fold, eliminating an extra step in the laundry process.
Clothing
In homes with children or adults of similar sizes, color coding can help keep clothing sorted by owner. Use the same colors that you've put into place for the laundry system, and simply mark a colored dot on the tag of each item of clothing. Use the dots to determine whose pants are whose, saving time and energy tracking down each person individually.
Holiday Decorations
Tired of spending time before each holiday sorting through a sea of poorly labeled boxes? Color coding to the rescue, again! After each holiday this year, take time to purchase brightly colored plastic totes. These totes are often available in seasonal colors – red and green for Christmas, orange for Fall holidays. Store your decorations accordingly, and you'll never again have to sort through the Easter decorations looking for your Christmas angel.
Color coding is a quick and easy way to add organization to your daily life. By making small changes, you can be well on your way to a simpler, less stressful life. Take the time to add some color coded organizational tools to your home today – you'll be amazed at the difference that they make.
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
As we enter the New Year, our thoughts often turn towards organization of home and office. The key to developing an organized home is to develop a series of systems that work within your home, making it easier to find the things you need. Color coding is one great way to streamline your home and make it easier to access items quickly.
There are many areas of your home that can be color coded. Adding a touch of color can help you organize papers, laundry, clothing, and so much more. Here are a few simple tips to get you started on the right track to organization.
Papers
Paper clutter is one of the worst offenders – it seems to breed when you look away. Mail, bills, letters, and papers to be filed pile up in the office, on the front table, and beside the reading chair. Corral the paper clutter once and for all by developing an organized, color coded filing system.
Pick a basket that will hold file folders, and place it near where you open your mail. Now, add colored folders for each type of mail you receive – To Read, To Pay, To Do, and To File. Keep a small trash can in this area, as well. As you open the mail, place each item in the appropriate folder, or throw it away if its junk. Your mail is organized, ready for the next time you file or pay bills – all you have to do is grab the appropriate folder!
Laundry
Whether you live in a home with children, or an empty nest, laundry is a major obstacle to overcome. Color coded bins can be a huge help, as even the smallest child (or the most housework impaired spouse) can recognize a bin by color.
Pick a color for each member of the family, and place it in the area where they change clothes. On laundry day, have them bring their bins to the laundry room. As clothes are washed, dried, and folded, place them in the bin of the owner, to be returned to their room and put away. This system allows you to sort clothing as you fold, eliminating an extra step in the laundry process.
Clothing
In homes with children or adults of similar sizes, color coding can help keep clothing sorted by owner. Use the same colors that you've put into place for the laundry system, and simply mark a colored dot on the tag of each item of clothing. Use the dots to determine whose pants are whose, saving time and energy tracking down each person individually.
Holiday Decorations
Tired of spending time before each holiday sorting through a sea of poorly labeled boxes? Color coding to the rescue, again! After each holiday this year, take time to purchase brightly colored plastic totes. These totes are often available in seasonal colors – red and green for Christmas, orange for Fall holidays. Store your decorations accordingly, and you'll never again have to sort through the Easter decorations looking for your Christmas angel.
Color coding is a quick and easy way to add organization to your daily life. By making small changes, you can be well on your way to a simpler, less stressful life. Take the time to add some color coded organizational tools to your home today – you'll be amazed at the difference that they make.
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
Quotable Quote
Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.
Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison
Christian Topic of The Day
Topic for Today: Discipline
God has no pleasure in afflicting us, but He will not keep back even the most painful chastisement if He can but thereby guide His beloved child to come home and abide in the beloved Son.
Murray, Andrew
God has no pleasure in afflicting us, but He will not keep back even the most painful chastisement if He can but thereby guide His beloved child to come home and abide in the beloved Son.
Murray, Andrew
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Meal Time - A Family Affair for Many Generations
Meal Time - A Family Affair for Many Generations
Meal time is a family affair for many generations. In today's society of hustle and bustle and being always on the go, it is easy to overlook family mealtimes. In the past, it was traditional that at all three mealtimes, breakfast, lunch and dinner, the family would all gather round the dinner table to eat. Someone - usually one of the children - would set the table, Mom or Grandma (or both!) would prepare a healthy, delicious meal which would be laid out on the table. Dishes would be passed around the table, a prayer would be said, and clean-up would take place before any children could play.
While that probably reminds you of your own childhood, how often does it take place in your own home? Having a family mealtime can afford you with a lot more benefits than you might think. Sure it takes longer, and sure, everyone has to bend their ever-so-busy schedules to it, but just imagine some of the wonderful benefits of a family mealtime!
A family mealtime can enable you to be able to teach your children how to cook - properly! Many children today simply can't cook anything out of a microwave, and don't know how to follow a basic recipe. Using family mealtimes as instructional times can be a wonderful opportunity for you to teach your children how to cook good, healthy meals. Showing your children and grandchildren the basics, such as how to time cooking many dishes at once, food preparation and substitutions, the mathematics involved in cutting a recipe in half or doubling it, and many other cooking lessons can be invaluable later in life. Passing on of family recipes from one generation to another generation.
Having a family meal also allows you to bring your family closer together as a family unit and to involve the entire family with an activity all at once. In today's world, how often does your entire family get to sit down with one another at the same time? Use this fantastic time as a way to start conversations between members of your family. Discuss the high points and low points of each family member's day. Learn how your children are doing in school and extra-curricular activities (if they are not home schooled). Most of all this provides an environment where your family can talk to each other and listen in an open forum. Grandparents offer discussion of history and family traditions.
This can also bring your family closer together in other ways. You can have each family member plan one meal for the week, or have your family plan meals together. Use this as a time to think about the nutritional value of each meal, to incorporate all of the food groups, and to also make sure that everyone has a chance to eat their favorite foods! The ideas are limitless, and it will encourage an atmosphere of sharing, kindness and caring.
Let each member of your family take part in mealtime, from setting the table to taking turns doing the dishes afterwards. It is all about family participation and sharing. Include every member of your family and be sure to be absolutely firm about this aspect of your lives. Many times schedules and appointments can interfere with family dinners, but this is a very important part of your family life, and it should be treated as such by all members of the family.
Meal time isn't simply the time for us to eat, it is a time for us to come together as a family unit and to strengthen our bonds together. Whether you can eat one meal together a day or three, it is important to set aside at least one meal a day as a "family meal". Your family will thank you for it!
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
Meal time is a family affair for many generations. In today's society of hustle and bustle and being always on the go, it is easy to overlook family mealtimes. In the past, it was traditional that at all three mealtimes, breakfast, lunch and dinner, the family would all gather round the dinner table to eat. Someone - usually one of the children - would set the table, Mom or Grandma (or both!) would prepare a healthy, delicious meal which would be laid out on the table. Dishes would be passed around the table, a prayer would be said, and clean-up would take place before any children could play.
While that probably reminds you of your own childhood, how often does it take place in your own home? Having a family mealtime can afford you with a lot more benefits than you might think. Sure it takes longer, and sure, everyone has to bend their ever-so-busy schedules to it, but just imagine some of the wonderful benefits of a family mealtime!
A family mealtime can enable you to be able to teach your children how to cook - properly! Many children today simply can't cook anything out of a microwave, and don't know how to follow a basic recipe. Using family mealtimes as instructional times can be a wonderful opportunity for you to teach your children how to cook good, healthy meals. Showing your children and grandchildren the basics, such as how to time cooking many dishes at once, food preparation and substitutions, the mathematics involved in cutting a recipe in half or doubling it, and many other cooking lessons can be invaluable later in life. Passing on of family recipes from one generation to another generation.
Having a family meal also allows you to bring your family closer together as a family unit and to involve the entire family with an activity all at once. In today's world, how often does your entire family get to sit down with one another at the same time? Use this fantastic time as a way to start conversations between members of your family. Discuss the high points and low points of each family member's day. Learn how your children are doing in school and extra-curricular activities (if they are not home schooled). Most of all this provides an environment where your family can talk to each other and listen in an open forum. Grandparents offer discussion of history and family traditions.
This can also bring your family closer together in other ways. You can have each family member plan one meal for the week, or have your family plan meals together. Use this as a time to think about the nutritional value of each meal, to incorporate all of the food groups, and to also make sure that everyone has a chance to eat their favorite foods! The ideas are limitless, and it will encourage an atmosphere of sharing, kindness and caring.
Let each member of your family take part in mealtime, from setting the table to taking turns doing the dishes afterwards. It is all about family participation and sharing. Include every member of your family and be sure to be absolutely firm about this aspect of your lives. Many times schedules and appointments can interfere with family dinners, but this is a very important part of your family life, and it should be treated as such by all members of the family.
Meal time isn't simply the time for us to eat, it is a time for us to come together as a family unit and to strengthen our bonds together. Whether you can eat one meal together a day or three, it is important to set aside at least one meal a day as a "family meal". Your family will thank you for it!
A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
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