National Fire Prevention Week - Put An End To Stovetop Cooking Fires Forever

Stovetop Cooking the number one cause of household fire, is the basis for this years theme Watch What You Heat for National Fire Prevention Week Oct. 8th to 15th.

The 118,700 home fires, one every 4 minutes, that involved cooking equipment, accounted for 250 deaths, 3,880 injuries, and $512 million in direct property damage, according to a 2003 NFPA report. Estimates from the Home Safety Council indicate that indirect costs are in the billions of dollars. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the U.S. has one of the highest fire death and injury rates in the world.

Low-income families, seniors, and students are the most vulnerable and the number of fires year over year with these groups remain constant.

Is there a national apathy towards the loss of life, the injuries, and the costs associated with stovetop cooking? The fire prevention community is doing its part, but behavior in adults is very difficult to change. The adoption of smoke alarms and sprinklers has had a significant impact on saving li5B4ves as has community education, but all of these measures have done nothing to prevent the cause. Detectors and alarms alert homeowners that there is a fire; suppression systems aid in minimizing damage; but what about technologies that prevent these fires from occurring in the first place!

Our homes are equipped with technologies that are under continuous development - state of the art entertainment systems; personal and property security systems and energy efficient heating systems to mention only a few of the products that keep us in comfort and safety. Yet, the conventional stovetop that we use day in and day out has changed little in the past 50 years. There may be electronic displays, timers, and other toys, but the fact of the matter is that the coiled element of an electric stove is the same device that our grandparents used, a devise that heats to temperatures far beyond those needed for cooking temperatures that have the ability to ignite cooking oils and other household materials in seconds.

As the old saying goes an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To reduce the deaths and injuries caused by stovetop cooking requires a permanent fix to the inherent problem the over heating of the element.

One such engineering solution is the Safe-T-element cooking system, designed to help prevent stovetop cooking fires before they start! By seamlessly controlling the high end temperature of an eB68lectric coil stovetop element, below the ignition point of cooking oils and other common household materials while still cooking effectively, Safe-T-element has the potential to significantly reduce the number of stovetop cooking fires.

And because a disproportionate number of stovetop cooking fires occur in low income, university and senior housing this is a solution that can be easily targeted to these vulnerable, high risk groups.

The Safe-T-element cooking system was designed to help prevent stovetop cooking fires before they start! By seamlessly controlling the high end temperature of an electric coil stovetop element below the ignition point of cooking oils and other common household materials while still cooking effectively.

This technology was originally taken to appliance manufacturers to be installed at source. However, while the dangers associated with stovetop cooking are well known to the industry they instead attribute these startling statistics to the misuse of the stove as opposed to the appliance itself. While this may be true, the same can be said for cigarettes, candles, mattresses, and childrens clothing and yet in those product categories, either the industry has voluntarily taken steps to protect its customers from potential misuse or legislators have stepped in and enforced the issue. Stovetop cooking fires happen to those who are most vulnerable. With seniors for example, there is a significant difference between misuse and forgetfulness associated with advanced age. Its time that the industry either voluntarily or is forced to adopt new technology that puts an end to this problem.

This significant societal problem must and can be simply addressed if the industry and/or legislators take an interest in solving/reducing the problem.

This patented product, created by Pioneering Technology Inc. recently received the U.S. Home Safety Councils Award for Product Innovation in Consumer Safety and was recognized at the NFPAs World Fire Expo (http://clients.dunedain.com/pioneeringtech/newsforweb.mp4). Safe-T-element has been retrofitted to existing electric coiled stovetops and has a track record of success, aiding in the prevention of cooking fires for housing authorities, senior's residences, colleges and other multi-resident facilities throughout North America.

Now is the time to ensure Fire Prevention Week lasts MORE THAN A WEEK. Now is the time to implement solutions that bring an end, to these needless tragedies.

To find additional information on home safety products please visit: http://www.renovation-headquarters.com

House Framing Books

Building Your Own Garage Workbench

For someone with a home workshop, it is necessary to have a garage workbench. This will allow projects to be completed more readily and more accurately. People can have the option of customizing their workbench or buying one that is pre-made.

Leveling Stringers

No Money Down - How To Buy Property With Nothing Down

If you have ever watched TV after about 11:30 at night, you've seen people talking about courses on buying real estate with no money down. They show vacation paradises, gorgeous girls, fancy cars, and huge mansions. All of this is promised to you if you buy their course on making a million with nothing! If you want you can spend "only three payments of $99.99" to find out about this exciting area...OR...I'll just tell you for FREE!

One thing I must mention first, however, is that ANY information, combined with NO action, produces NO result. If I came over to your house and showed you everything in person and answered all of your questions, and then you did NOTHING.....it was a waste of time. Yours and mine!! On the other hand, if you combine information with hard work, persistence and, most of all, GUTS, you will be successful, whether you buy the courses, read the books for free at the library, or get the information from me, right here!

I mentioned GUTS because there's a price to be paid for everything. If you had a million dollars, you could buy an apartment building without hardly any difficulty. Just pick out one that you liked, had a good return, and passed a building inspection.

If you DON'T have a million dollars, what are you to do? Well get ready for some hard work, searching for the right deal. Get ready to have a whole slew of offers rejected, and maybe even laughed at. Get ready to hear some pompous real estate agent tell you (as one told me) "Son, I've been in the real estate business for thirty years now, and let me tell you, there's no such thing as a no money down deal." Get ready to work on a deal and spend time on it only to have it collapse.

You're going to put in your down payment in the form of "brain sweat equity". You're going to pay by acquiring more knowledge than others in the area of creative real estate, and by searching long and hard to find MOTIVATED sellers, ones who want to get rid of their properties desperately and therefore are willing to help you out. Most of all, you're going to pay by enduring the inevitable "start-up glitches" that ANY business or enterprise has. If it was easy to do, then everybody would be doing it, and there would be no properties left! It is this difficulty that makes it EASY, once you know what you are doing!!

OK, so here we go, but first you need to know ONE thing: IN REAL ESTATE EVERYTHING IS NEGOTIABLE!! Let me say that again, because it is the linchpin of the way creative real estate works--in real estate EVERYTHING is negotiable!

What does that mean? Are there any boundaries? NO!! Can you get someone to carry an agreement for sale for 25 years with little or no money down and no credit check? YES!! Are there ten ads in the paper offering just such an agreement, or one? Probably none! What does that mean? EVERYTHING is negotiable! If you find a motivated seller, one who is paying every month to own 5B4that property, one who doesn't have the skills to fix it up, one who moved out of town, or the country, then he MIGHT go for it! Notice that I did not say WILL go for it, but MIGHT!

Think of yourself when you had a car that you wanted to get rid of, because it was a piece of junk. If someone approached you and asked "how much?", you'd say "$1000, firm". But you knew deep inside that you just wanted to get rid of the headache!! And if you ever had to wait for a month or two with no one buying your car, suddenly you were not quite so firm on the price! And if the alternator had to be replaced before the car could run, pretty soon you just wanted it OUT of your hands!! NOW, you're ready to accept monthly payments, maybe hold something as security, etc. You just want it GONE!

It is the same with real estate properties! They go from being our pride and joy to an albatross around our necks--then we're ready to do WHATEVER it takes to get rid of it!

These people aren't going to jump up and down and say "I'm willing to take a no money down deal for my property"! They are going to be depressed, just like the fellow with a clunker in his back yard, sitting there for months. They are going to need some convincing, but if you find the "DON'T WANTER", the most difficult part is done! Then you make offers, look closely at each property to see if you can make a go of it (that's a whole other report!) if you can get the property--some5B4times you don't want it either! Then it is just a matter of making offers, either in person, or through a realtor, until you find someone who is

ready to deal. The first time is the hardest, because no matter how many times I tell you (or the TV guys) that it CAN be done, you are going to think "not for me, not here in __________, not any more, not with my areas laws and zoning regulations, not with my personality, not with my brains, etc."

Don't you believe it! Look at all the people in the TV commercials-all types and shapes-they have ONE thing in common--they went out and DID IT!

ALL IT TAKES IS GUTS AND PERSEVERANCE!!

Here's the "stream of consciousness" of ideas on how to buy with $000.00 down, but keep in mind the whole time that IN REAL ESTATE EVERYTHING IS NEGOTIABLE!

1) The simplest way to buy with no money down is to get the seller to carry an agreement for sale. Monthly payments for 25 years are possible if the seller has no need for the money, and can be convinced to get his 6,7,8% return secured by his house instead of buying a 4% bond.

2) If you have good credit and want to put no money into a property, try a first mortgage, Vendor carries a big second for remainder. Seller gets , say 75%, and carries 25%.

3) Again with good credit, try first, smaller 2nd, and a Personal Line of Credit for remainder--especially if the gap is only $10-15,000. This can even work for low p5B4riced properties where the first mortgage is combined with a PLC for the remainder--be smart enough to go to another bank for PLC and tell them that you're going to make an invstment with money--and don't tell ANY bank that you're doing a no money down deal!

4) Payment over time-seller wants $5,000 down, for example. How about $400 per month for a year? You're still paying it, but over time-maybe the property will generate enough extra money to pay this!

5) Back taxes-I've done deals where I've taken over back taxes due--you can pay them off at your own speed, within reason!

6) Free rent-I've done deals where the seller had office space in the building and took 2 years free rent as down payment! Can also work for multi family.

7) Upon closing there are adjustments for that months rent--close on the 2nd or 3rd to maximize this-and for damage deposits, taxes to be paid for the period owned by seller, utility bills to be paid, etc. These can add up to a large amount!

8) Since the bank starts mortgage payments one month from closing, simply by paying an interest adjustment of 2 weeks allows you to use the first months rent and apply the second months rent to the mortgage payment.

9) Borrow on insurance policy, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc. If you allow the bank to secure the collateral they will be very accommodating.

10) Rack up your Visa, Mastercard and American Exp15E8res cards. A bit crazy, but I assume its a great investment!

11) Borrow from friends, relatives, boss (holiday pay?) Maybe even cut them in as partners!

12) Partners are a surefire way to get accepted for big bank loans, create enough down payments, etc. Always look for people who are interested in this area, and ask them what prevents them from buying investment properties. If its time, expertise, etc--then you have a fit! All that's preventing you is money--and you have found this great property haven't you?

13) Syndicate a group of people--say 9 investors and you get the last tenth for putting together the project--they will provide the financial strength for the loan, and maybe even the down payments! Anything is possible, remember? This is a lot of work to find these people, but VERY lucrative! Start with dentists and doctors, lawyers, everyone that you deal with!

14) Rent to buy--maybe you make payments for 3 years and then have built up the downpayment--meanwhile the property can go up in value, rents rise, and so on.

15) Option to buy--Seller keeps title and gets all revenue. You simply pay a sum for the right (make it REALLY legal!) to purchase the property at a certain sum in X years. There could be a trade for this option, example trade an item or service for the option.

16) Lets make trading an item or service for down payment its own idea!

17) Foreclosure property--maybe just before it goes into foreclosure you offer to keep up the payments and give seller SOMETHING, SOMETIME for his equity. (In a short while he's not getting anything!) Lots of work, lots of books and announcement services available.

18) Fix up damaged property--work deal with bank--example: as is it's worth $75,000, with clean up and fix up its worth 100,000--bank offers 75,000 mortgage based on future value--you have to do fix up--similar to sweat equity.

19) Lease property (ie an office building) from owner and sub lease it to tennants--must be very legal and usually needs strong rent up effort!

20) Pay someone to cosign for a loan

21) Get realtor to carry his commission as a note--they HATE this, but if its needed..

22) Balloon payment--nothing down, balance due in three years

23)Private money from mortgage brokers--ask them about it! High rate of interest, but..

24) Refinance property either before you assume it, or after

25) Find a partner where he takes writeoff for negative cash flow and you manage property--this can even work with buying your personal residence--investor is happy with $200 per month negative cash flow in return for your taking care of property, always a tennant (you) and investor splits profit when selling.

That's going to be enough to start some gears running in your head. The most important part is to keep trying, and to be creative. Combining parts of one idea and another, and always probing for what the seller wants will lead you to solutions. Always probe for ways to make both of you happy. Everyone wants all cash, right now--not everyone gets it! Think of the junker car in the back yard and look for ways to HELP the other person--they want to sell!

Most of all, keep looking! It is not a failure on your part if someone is clinging to the hope that they'll get a certain price, or certain terms. If they can-great!! If not, check back in a few months. Many properties are still sitting there and with a MUCH more receptive seller after they have the property "sitting in their backyard, rusting" (or racking up negative cash flow and maintenance and property management headaches). Try and try again!

Check online for new info and more opportunities, network with other investors, ads can be used to signal what you are looking to find, partners wanted, etc. Go to your public library for more real estate and business information. Keep your mind working and searching--keep looking for properties and more information--one idea can be worth a fortune to you --go to seminars when they come to your town--and the total adds up to the "Eureka!" screamed in the middle of the night.

Buying with a low down payment is obviously much easier than buying with absolutely nothing down, so be sure to save up your money to make it easier for you. Even a no money down deal can require cash for legal fees, closing costs, etc.

Best of luck!

Andrew Larder

Creative Real Estate Investing With Low Or No Money Down

To receive free info on no or low money down real estate investing, visit: Free Creative Real Estate Investing Newsletter

Remodeling Problems Help

Infidelity Detective: Investigating a Lover or Spouse

Weve all heard the horror stories associated with relationships. Usually, these stories are the common issues that touch most, if not all, couples. A step up that ladder is infidelity statistics show that affairs affect approximately one in every three couples. Think about that for a minute. One out of every THREE. This means, even if you havent personally been cheated on, people in your life likely have been.

Also, millions of women each year are abused by the men in their life. Many of these women are ultimately murdered by the hands of their significant others. And its not just men that do the abusing women are abusers also. Abuse has many variations from the physical to the emotional and the far majority of it happens behind closed doors with someone the victim trusts.

Unfortunately, there are also con artists out there who purposely find emotionally needy targets to steal money from. They use their charisma and their lies to become romantically involved with their victims, and once the trust is established, they walk away. Not only leaving a broken heart, but often, an empty bank account. Many times, these victims never come forward because they blame themselves.

Today, it is easier than ever for someone to take advantage of you. With the advent of the internet, and the fascination with falling in love, internet matchmaking companies are big business. And, for the person looking to find someone to victimize, these organizations are a fairly anonymous way to begin their search.

There are many reasons why someone may want to investigate their lover or spouse. They could be in a new relationship with someone they dont know very much about, they could be contemplating marriage and are unsure if their intended has been honest with them, or they could be in a long-term relationship or marriage and believe their significant other is cheating on them. Regardless of the reason why, in todays world, it makes sense to be sure that your partner is who they say they are. In most circumstances, if your instinct is telling you something is off, it probably is.

Usually, when people are hiding something, there are clues to this. Knowing what to look for can help you in making the decision to investigate your lover or spouse. Realize, the following tips are based on the assumption that a couple is beyond the first date stage.

General Evasiveness. Are they vague when you question them about their job? Past relationships? Family? Schooling? Where they grew up? Whether they outright refuse to answer, or just never fully answer, this is a huge red flag.

Refusal to Give Contact Information. If you only have their beeper number, that signifies a problem. Even if you have their work phone number and their cell phone number, but not a home phone number you should be suspicious. Likewise, if you dont know where they live, and the individual is not forthcoming with this information, theres probably a reason why.

Keeps Friends and Family Hidden. If you have no idea who their friends and family are, have never met them, and dont even know where your partner hangs out with their friends and family be concerned. In healthy relationships, it is a normal and expected involvement to meet each others friends and family.

Deception. If youve caught them in lies, one after another, even small white lies this is a warning signal you should not ignore. When you know the facts about an incident and your partner is lying to you, theyre trying to keep you from discovering something. You need to carefully consider what they are hiding and why.

Missing Blocks of Time. Do they run to the store for one quick thing, and return three hours later? Do they suddenly have business meetings every night that run until late? Are they often unavailable at unexplainable times? Missing blocks of time often leads to the realization that your partner is cheating.

Complains about Lack of Money. If your partner is suddenly complaining about a lack of funds, and if this is a NEW thing, be careful. They could be spending their extra money on someone else.

New Concerns over Appearance. Suddenly worried about their physical appearance is a sign of infidelity. Those who have been cheated on always say their first clue was the new clothes in the closet, the excessive shaving, the using of perfume/aftershave when it wasnt before, the membership at the gym, etc. Basically, any behavior related to appearance the individual didnt have before.

The above characteristics do not mean your partner is lying to you, cheating on you, or is someone other than they say. However, they are suspicious in nature, especially if more than one of the above pertains to your partner. What do you do to confirm or deny your suspicions? There are many possibilities at your disposal if youre ready to investigate your lover or your spouse. Remember, the more information you have, the better decisions you can make.

Terry Taggert writes informational articles about people search, privacy, reverse phone lookups, and other similar topics. Conduct an instant reverse cell phone lookup at http://www.ReversePhoneDetective.com

Vertical 1 X 6 Siding On Porch

Understanding the Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is currently one of the most popular supplemental vitamins used. It's true discovery occured in 1747, by a Scottish surgeon James Lind. Dr. Lind found this special nutrient in citrus fruit, which he soon learned prevented scurvy. To find out the true effect of Vitamin C, he gave lemon juice, to sailors that were affected by this disease. After multiple treatments, his patients were healed on this condition. He later documented these findings in the widely popular book, The Treatise of Scurvy. In 1932, Vitamin C was finally isolated by a team of Hungarian scientists. In 1971, Vitamin C received a great deal of attention due to the efforts of another Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling. Dr. Pauling believed in vitamin C had many beneficial attributes on the body, which he published several best selling books. One of his most well-known books, Vitamin C and the Common Cold, illustrates the immune-enhancing effects of ascorbic acid on the body.

Our knowledge and understanding of the benefits of Vitamin C has increased substantially over the past several decades. Many people commonly take Vitamin C, as a way of avoiding a potential cold. Some argue that Vitamin C does not have realistic effect upon the suppression of colds. But, according to various clinic studies, many researchers that Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine, which helps reduce the severity of cold symptoms. This vitamin has been observed to shorten the duration of time that a cold occurs for. The appropriate amount of Vitamin C should be taken into consideration. Even though, Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin it is strongly advised that minimize taking large quantities.

Aside certain temporary ailments such a cold, Vitamin C is one of the important components to collagen production, which helps the rebuilding and healing process of our body. Many doctors advise that Vitamin C is beneficial in the minor reconstructive process of cuts, hairline fractures, surgical wounds, and broken bones. This does not mean that a physician advise and treatment is not necessary. It means that to help the body rebuild during these events, this vitamin is very beneficial. Aside from the oral intake of Vitamin C, it can help your skin externally. As an antioxidant, like Vitamin E, it can help the skin against the harmful free radical damage of UV rays.

As a heavily research antioxidant, Vitamin C like other vitamins, is seen having certain anti-cancer properties. Since this information is not solidified is not 100% conclusive. But, according to some sources this vitamin helps minimize DNA mutation, which is commonly the catalyst of cancer cell development. Vitamin C helps support our immune system from cancer cells. It does not fight these mutant cells directly but rather provides our immune system with the correct artillery to attack cancer cells.

Vitamin C is quite benefits for certain eye conditions. It has been studied to benefit elderly citizens suffering from cataracts. Cataracts is a fairly common eye condition, where the lens of the eye become cloudy or hazy. This progress can lead to blurred vision, eventually causing blindness. The way Vitamin C benefits the eye, is similar to the skin. It prevents the free radical damage created by the UV rays of sunlight. This vitamin when supplement will stagnant in the eye preventing further damage and reduce current lens damage. Another organ that is helps benefit in the heart. The lifeline of our body and brain is affected by this vitamin due its arterial maintainance. Similar in nature to other antioxidants, prevent the free radical damage to the arterial walls of the heart. With time, these damaged walls can damage plaque, which can occult the diameter of the vessel creating a blockage. Over time, multiple major blockages or clots can restrict blood flow to and/or from the heart. This is a common reason for heart attacks and strokes. Also, it helps the reduce the oxidization rate of LDL cholesteral, which you should monitor on an ongoing basis. As, posted previous the LDL cholestrol helps patch up this free radical damage created causing plaque to form and build. If untreated, you run the risk of blocking the arterial or dislodging the clot into your heart or brain. That is very serious, if not deadly!

For those suffer from pulmonary conditions, there may be some hope in learning from how Vitamin C can help. Due to its potent antioxidant benefits, it has been commonly observed that appropriate doses of can help those who suffer with asthma. It is believed that Vitamin C helps relax the lungs and minimize histamine release, which has been linked to an increase in pulmonary inflammation.

Based on my readings, those are some of the most benefits aspect of taking Vitamin C. It is always under the strong advise of a physician to look into this vitamin. In my opinion and in others, it is a great vitamin to supplement your body with. It is a beneficial way of providing all of your physiological systems with a certain nutrient that has crucial antioxidant properties. You should look for a quality multivitamin to supplement your diet with. It will definetely help you in the long run.

Vilash Reddy is president of Doc1Vitamins.com. Doc1Vitamins.com is a comprehensive nutritional website that features physician developed, highly effective vitamins and nutritional supplements. It contains various health resources for help educate visitors on the importance of quality nutrition and supplementation.

Indexsidingpictures

Buying Your First Home And Sleeping Well At Night

The real estate process of buying a home for the typical family can be a very stressful event, almost at the top of the charts. The selection of a professional agent can be a tremendous benefit as a counselor and guide to navigate you through the process with as little stress as possible. The average home buyer spends very little time interviewing and investigating agents for the role as their agent.

The first part of the home buying process for many is the desire to look at homes and not the careful selection of a real estate agent. This can be a huge mistake as the knowledge and experience level of an agent can change the outcome of the stressful process to a smooth one. Many homebuyers end up with an agent by default, what I mean by this is that the buyer has no plan of action for selecting their agent. The introduction may have been as casual as the buyer calling on an ad or attending an open house.

Of course you want to start the home buying process with a strong foundation and finding the right agent will make a big difference in the total experience. As a first time home buyer you will depend on the expertise of your agent. You will not know what to expect or when to expect it within this very challenging process.

You will want to interview several agents before you even start looking for a home. By pursuing an interview process you will also educate yourself. Here are several areas you will want to discuss with agents that you are interviewing.

1. What is the experience level of the agent? Selecting someone that has at least two years or more of experience will show they have survived the test of time and the knowledge to assist you in the home buying process.

2. What is the geographical area that they service. As an agent works in a given neighborhood they will gain additional non-real estate knowledge such as which area has better schools, less rush-hour traffic or lower crime rates.

3. Does the agent carry errors and omissions insurance? This protects them and you when there is a contractual issue or an undisclosed defect in the home. The Department of real estate doesn't require a broker to carry it, and this is not something you want to find out after closing.

4. Many agents work only on a buyer broker agreement basis, you will be asked to sign a contract for several months during which you will be obligated to work with this agent exclusively for that time period. Other agents will ask you for this agreement once they have worked with you, both parties feel it is a good relationship, and you are ready to make an offer.

5. Always ask for references. A good agent will have their references ready for you.

6. In order to serve their client as best as possible some agents have decided not to represent both a buyer and seller in the same transaction. One of the main reasons for this is that it is very difficult to be an advocate for two parties with opposite goals.

7. How does the agent select the homes that they show you? Many agents will e-mail their clients a lot of properties and let the buyer decide which homes to see, this can be a very ineffective and time consuming process in which the buyer sees many homes that do not suit their needs. The best agents will preview all of the homes on the market that fit a buyers general criteria and then show their client only the best homes. This process leads to a much more efficient and beneficial outcome for the buyer.

8. Does the agent have a close relationship with a trustworthy and knowledgeable lender? By working closely with the lender an agent will be more able to guide the process ensuring that the buyer gets the best loan program for their situation and is only looking at homes that fit their budget.

So as you can see, by methodically and strategically selecting an agent you can positively influence the outcome of your home purchase.

Co-written by Randy Nathan and James Dedolph, creators of HomeSniffer.com where you can find Homes for Sale in San Diego and LoanSniffer.net where you can find the best rate and terms for Homes Loans in San Diego. Both of these sites are a good resource for information about San Diego Real Estate.

Indexsidingpictures

How to Feel Good

The quickest way to make one feel better is to look better. You have heard the quote "Looking good, feeling good" a million times. It is true. So let's aim at doing what is in our reach to look good so we can put ourselves in a good mood and hence, know that there is a way out of any negative, stressful, detestable, depressive situation we find ourselves in.

The first suggestions were to smile and do an internal and external cleanse.

You can now do other things as well. Here are 3 more suggestions for you:

1. Move

This one is easier said than done, especially if you are the "let me stay put" type. But life requires movement anyway or nothing gets accomplished, so you might as well take advantage of it. There are very simple things you can do to move and hence shake your body a little, knowing that when you shake your body, you also shake your distress.

Here are some examples: You can start upon waking up. Still lying down, bend your legs and grab your knees. Roll sideways for about 10 times.

After you take a shower, lift your legs and arms to be dried. Bend your torso parallel to the ground and shake your head sideways.

While doing the dishes or preparing dinner, bend your torso sideways and rotate it. Also do bend and straighten your legs up and down. Spread your feet and repeat the bending.

While sitting at your desk: feet on the floor, bend your body until you touch your head on your knees. Let your arms go; relax a little and then stretch your arms over your head.

See? You don't have to do anything out of the ordinary to move your body. You feel great!

2. Dress up

Yes, I know; who wants to dress up when you are depressed or stressed out? That would in fact be the last thing you will want to do. Ok, so we can compromise: no need for nylons if this is too much, but you certainly have some good slacks, a nice silky shirt/blouse, a colored scarf, a blazer (whether permitting) and a good pair of shoes or sandals.

Even if you are not going anywhere, try to dress up anyway. That will change your mood, I promise. Don't forget your lipstick.

3. Improve your posture

Don't slouch. When you walk big you will feel big. Lift you head and look up, pretending there is a point of light that you will have to follow and that sits in the same direction as the middle of your forehead. Look at everything else peripherally. Walk with larger steps and a little faster than you are used to, as if marching. Give your stride a little rhythm. Until you get used to it, sing a nice song to yourself while you walk at its cadence. Let your arms loose, if you can. Don't forget to climb the stairs.

Still feeling yuck? I doubt it, but will give you more suggestions later on.

Want to have more love, abundance, health, time, fun, and prosperity? Visit Prescription For Bliss at http://www.rx4bliss.com, sign up for the newsletter and receive a fr*ee ebook called "Happy People Are More Abundant!" Dr. Maria Moratto is the author of "Want to Save Your Relationship? Know Your Man!" among other books. Visit her site to get fr*ee affirmation cards. Dr. Maria is available for Radio and Television Talk Shows, media interviews, and as a Guest Speaker at your events.

Maria Moratto 2006
You may reprint this article in its entirety as long as you add this resource box.

Rainbow Remodeling
Ramona Remodeling

3 Ways 'Going with the Flow' Will Make You Fat - And What To Do About It!

Wanna know the truth?

If youre going to be slim, youre going to have to swim against the current. Youre going to have to take charge of your body and make your own decisions cause if you go with the flow today, I guarantee that youre going to be fat.

Here are 3 reasons why:

#1) Rampant Portion Sizes

Supersize it, Biggie Fries, Value Meal, Super Big Gulp phrases that we use so commonly, its hard to believe that wed have to explain what they mean to someone from another era.

Restaurants have blown their portion sizes so big in the name of providing value that one meal could feed a small soccer team.

Considering that your stomach is roughly the size of your fist (but thank goodness it stretches!), the portion sizes you get today in the average restaurant could probably fill 5 or more stomachs.

But were told to get our moneys worth right?

So go ahead and eat up. That way you can spend your money going to the doctor for obesity related health problems later. Thats truly getting your moneys worth!

#2) Diet as Religion

Diets boast a stellar 2-5% success rate (thats a 98% FAILURE rate by the way). And yet if an alien landed in North America, he (or she) would be convinced that our society must be built on the value of dieting.

Billboards, magazines, books, television shows, ads, even restaurant menuseverywhere you look youre inundated with the latest diet, diet food or diet plan. Diets are touted as the ONLY solution to weight loss.

We have more diets on the market now than ever before. We have more people on a diet now than ever before and yet we continue to get fatteris there ANY POSSIBLE connection here?

#3) Escalator Generation

Go with the flow and youll enjoy a multitude of worldly conveniences. You can microwave your dinner in 5 minutes, load your dishwasher in 2 and pay the dog walker in 1.

You dont have to walk to the store - just hop in the car. Your kids dont have to go swimming theyve got a new Xbox game. Dont bother taking the stairs because theres an elevator.

You can sit at a desk for long hours without even getting up from your chair. And when you do come home from work you have the luxury of flopping on the couch and watching Friends while eating takeout.

Go with the flow my friend and youll expend less energy while eating more. Oh - and youll also be told that taking a pill is the only way to solve the problem of your ever-increasing waistline.

One of the best photographs I ever saw was of the front of a gym. There was a staircase leading up to the gym with an escalator beside it. And you guessed it people were taking the escalator UP to the gym! The only guy on the stairs was walking DOWN them. That pretty much sums up the problem.

Unfortunately, if you go with the flow in our world today, chances are very high that youre going to get fat. BUT by knowing what youre up against, you can take steps to go against the flow. By taking a stand, taking charge and making positive choices for your body you can live slim and healthy in a world skewed towards weight gain.

Kathryn O'Neill writes for Free To Be Thin - a website offering reviews of various weight loss programs that actually work.

For the latest reviews and weight loss tips visit http://www.FreeToBeThin.com

Installing Drywall
Drywall Repairs

Weight Loss For The Total Beginner

The key to permanently losing weight is simple: burn more calories than you consume! That's it! If your body is burning 2500 calories a day, you simply need to burn MORE than that in order for your body to start burning off your bodyfat.

But 2500 calories is alot of calories!

Actually not really! Considering your body is burning calories 24 hours a day, 7 days a week just to maintain it's essential functions. That means while you're watching TV, playing video games, even SLEEPING your body is burning calories.

On average, a good estimate of total daily calories burned at rest can be determined by bodyweight x 15. So for a 150 pound male, 150 x 15 = 2250 calories. 2250 calories a day just sitting around! Imagine that!

But before we get into anything too complicated, lets take a step back and take a look at some of the basics for maintaining a healthy body. Now, these are some of the most important, but unfortunately most overlooked aspects of losing weight and getting into shape.

Water: Yes, that's right, water. You should be drinking at least a gallon of water a day. Don't feel silly carrying around a full jug of water in the gym, it's extremely beneficial. Your body carries out thousands of processes using water, so you want to make sure that you're getting enough of it. It flushes out toxins, carries vitamins and nutrients throughout the blood, and also helps to reduce water retention. So drink up!

Vitamins: Taking your vitamins everyday is hands down the most important part of being healthy. A large majority of people do not get the amounts of vitamins and minerals they need, and getting all of the recommended amounts from food alone would result in eating a ridiculous amount. So, instead of cramming down plate after plate of food, just take a daily multi vitamin instead!

Sleep: Just like most people don't get enough vitamins and minerals, a large majority of people don't get enough sleep either. Many people do not understand the benefits from constantly getting a solid 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Not only will you be energized throughout the day, but if you are lifting weights, sleep is essential to adding muscle. During sleep, your body releases growth hormones that aid your body in reparing muscles used during your workouts. So sip down a cup of warm milk (also a good source of protein) and hit the hay!

So now that we've gone over the basics, you're ready to tackle the 3 most valuable weapons in the battle of the bulge: Diet and Nutrition, Cardiovascular Exercise, and Weight Training. Just three more steps and you're ready to lose weight like you've always wanted to!

In order to successfully lose weight quickly and permanently, you need to get your diet in check. Weight loss is almost impossible without some adjustments to your diet. No need to fret. A diet isn't an ordeal to survive, it's a way to achieve that body you've always dreamed of. A diet is simply what you eat day in, day out. A diet isn't a temporary fix to a permanent problem. To successfully lose weight, you'll need to alter the way you eat. It's no wonder people who go on quick-fix diets often gain all the weight back (sometimes more). As harsh as it sounds, you need to change your relationship with food. But don't worry, with time, there are plenty of healthy foods out there that taste great and will still aid you in losing weight. And besides, after a while you'll really start to notice how much better you feel with a steady supply of nutrient rich foods going into your body. So let's get started!

For optimum performance and health, your body needs an adequate supply of healthy carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Here are some examples of each.

Healthy Carbs:

Oats

Brown Rice

Potatoes

Yams

Granola

Whole Wheat Bread

Beans (any kind will do)

All vegetables and fruits

Protein:

Lean meats such as chicken, lowfat beef, fish, and turkey

Low Fat Milk

Low Fat Cottage Cheese

Canned Tuna Fish

Any whey or soy protein supplements

Healthy Fats:

Nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts)

Olive Oil

Flax Seed Oil

Avacados

Natural Peanut Butter (also a good source of protein)

And now I'm sure some of you are wondering: "Wait, I thought carbs and fat were bad?". The answer, which may shock and appall you, is NO! Well, in some cases yes. Some carbs are bad (aka: sugar and processed junk) and some fats are bad (trans fats and most saturated fats). But good, complex carbs (such as oats, whole wheat products, veggies and fruits) are what your body thrives on. They are great for energy as well as heart health and maintaining a healthy. Healthy fats are good for the brain and the production of hormones as well as great for a healthy heart. DO NOT LISTEN TO THOSE FAD DIET EXPERTS WHO CLAIM THAT CARBS ARE THE ENEMY! THEY ARE W R O N G!!!

Now that we know what kinds of food to eat, the next logical question is "how much"? A simple rule of thumb for healthy weight loss is 10-12x your bodyweight in calories. So someone weighing 180bs would need to eat between 1800 and 2160 calories a day in order to lose weight. This ensures your body gets the nutrition it needs to stay healthy, but also taps into your fat stores to get you in the shape you want!

Cardiovascular exercise, or "cardio", as most people tend to call it, is a great way to burn some extra calories and lose weight. You see, anything that gets your heart rate elevated will cause your body to burn calories at a higher rate. The more calories you burn throughout the day, the more fat your body is capable of burning off and therefore the more weight you can lose.

It's not wonder marathon runners, swimmers, and most professional sports players are so slim and fit! They don't go a day without doing some kind of cardiovascular exercise for an extended period of time. In addition to the physical benefits of cardio (aka: WEIGHT LOSS) there are many mental benefits. Obviously losing weight and looking better will do wonders for your phsyche, but it's also been proven that exercise in general releases serontonin, a powerful hormone that may be the closest thing to a "natural" antidepression. It makes you feel great! It's easy to spot too, after you get done working out or doing a long jog, you'll instantly feel uplifted and just plain happy!

So throw on those running shoes and hit the pavement! Here are some fun ways to get your cardio...

Running

Walking

Bicycling

Hiking

Rock Climbing

Running Stairs

These fun activities will more than suffice to burn extra calories, which is your overall goal in the battle of the bulge. In addition to the calories that you'll burn while doing cardio, an added benefit is that your body will burn more calories throughout the day. An intense cardio session can cause your metabolism (the rate at which your body burns calories) to stay elevated for up to a day and a half! So while your sitting down watching TV, cooking dinner, or even sleeping, your body is burning calories faster and destroying the fat you've been dying to get rid of!

So you see, in the quest for losing weight and getting fit, cardiovascular exercise is an excellent tool. Not only do you get the benefits of burning calories, you also experience the effects of a raised metabolism up to 35 hours after the cardio session! You simply can't go wrong! Try to fit in a 20-30 minute cardio sessions 2-3 times a week to begin, and then once your body is ready step it up to 4-5 times a week.

And on a personal note, it's a great feeling once you've completed a long, grueling cardio session (such as a long jog, hike, or some quality time with the stairmaster). Just the feeling of being drenched in sweat, and the knowledge that you're a little less fat, and a little less closer to that body of your dreams than you were when you started your cardio. Great way to think of it, huh?

Many people shy away from this portion of the fitness journey, but weight lifting plays a key role in your body's abilityto burn fat and lose weight. You see, muscle burns calories to maintain itself. A pound of muscle can burn between 30-50 calories a day. By lifting weights, thus adding muscle, you can greatly optimize your ability to burn calories and as we've discussed earlier burning extra calories is key to burning fat and losing weight.

It's a good idea not to try and overdo it when starting out. A first time lifter can experience soreness like they've never felt before. It's always good to find a balance between pushing yourself, and knowing your limits. So to start out, try lifting 2-3 times a week, giving your body adequate time to recover. Start doing full body workouts, utilizing all major muscles.

Let me just add one simple thing. If you're lifting weights hoping to add muscle, you're going need to have you diet in check. Muscles are made out of protein and water, so it should be common sense to incorporate many high protein foods (meats, milk, cottage cheese, ect...) in your daily diet.

However, it's hard (and not to mention expensive) to buy and eat all that food. That's why there are protein supplements! Protein bars and powders are a great way to get that extra amount of protein your muscles need to be big and strong! Just mix the powder with milk or water for a great protein drink. Protein bars are a great option for those of you with "on-the-go" lifestyles are don't have alot of time to prepare and pack the meals you need. You can purchase them at nearly any grocery store or health food store. Purchasing online is a great advantage and will save you money!

Even if at first the soreness might turn you away from a vigorours weight lifting regiment, the long lasting benefits of lifting weights greatly outweight the occasional soreness. Gaining muscle, losing fat, and gaining strength are just a few of the many benefits from pumping irons. Pretty soon, the rush of adrenaline you from lifting will lure you back to gym day after day! Weight lifting is key to success in acheiving permanent weight loss, so grab a dumbell or two and start lifting!

Well there you have it, you have a great start on the journey to weight loss and a better body! Good luck!

Steve Urbick is a self-taught fitness guru. By accumulating knowledge from various internet weight loss and fitness sites, Steve has successfully helped others change their body for the better.

http://www.weightlossanswersnow.com

Red Wood Bay Window
Remodeled House Exterior With Siding

Medical Robots

Medical robots are one of the most helpful applications of robots. They are used in various medical practices, including difficult and precise surgical procedures. They are also used to assist patients in recovery and in the performance of routine tasks for patient care.

Medical robots have computer-integrated technology and are comprised of complicated programming languages, controllers, and advanced sensors. They also possess powerful control units, a programming terminal, and process-oriented software for various medical applications.

Medical robots are used for training surgeons and providing in-depth knowledge to students. These robots provide standardized operation, which reduces the time required to perform any medical operation. They provide positional certainty and confined movement, which can lead to improved post-operative outcomes. The major potential advantages of medical robots are precision and miniaturization in medical operations. Further advantages are articulation beyond normal manipulation and three-dimensional magnification.

Doctors can view the patient, ask questions, read patient records, view X-rays, and test results using these robots. Although the robot does not physically examine the patient it, allows face-to-face contact between the doctor and patient with the help of a screen attached to it. They are also used inward rounds when doctors are away from patients, which allow patients to establish direct contact with doctors.

Research is going on in the field of medical robotics that will create new robotic technologies and benefit the healthcare industry. The use of WiFi technology in the medical robots allows a medical expert to visually examine and communicate with a patient from anywhere in the world.

There are many doctors, who are using medical robotic technologies in their regular clinical practice. Doctors believe that it is a revolutionary concept, which opens new avenues for telemedicine research and integrates technology with healthcare while establishing necessary interface between patients, clinicians, and teaching staff.

Robots provides detailed information on Robots, Robots Air Travel Finder, Industrial Robots, Used Robots and more. Robots is affiliated with Computer Forensics Consulting.

Vertical 1 X 6 Siding On Porch

Lithium-ion Batteries - The Way Of The Future

As an industrial maintenance mechanic for the past twenty years, I have seen maintenance and other trades revolutionized by the introduction of cordless tools. They help save time, money and can be used just about anywhere. Technology has come alomg way since the early days of cordless tools. Larger voltages have resulted in more power and longer run times from batteries have helped the tools become popular among tradesmen.

One of the only knocks against cordless tools has been the weight. The average 18 volt cordless drill has weighed up to six pounds in the past. The tool manufacturers have listened to the tradesman who want more power, more run time, and a lighter tool. The development of lithium-ion batteries for the cordless tool industry addresses all three of these consumer needs. Lithium-ion batteries offer a reduction in cordless battery weight of 25-40 % and a total tool weight of up to 25 %. In the past, many of the NiCad and NiMH batteries had to extend up into the handle of tools such as cordless drills, reciprocating saws, and circular saws. This all translated into more overall weight for the battery and tool. With the development of lithium-iom technology, manufacturers can pack more power in a battery pack that is the same size/weight as the NiCad or NiMH or fit the same power as the NiCad or NiMH in a smaller battery pack.

Lithium-ion batteries can also deliver more run time per charge than NiCad.The highest capacity for lithium-ion batteries is 3.0 Ah. This represents a 25 percent increase of the NiCad at 2.4 Ah. The NiMH highest rated capacity is 3.5 Ah. The lithium-ion may not deliver a better run time than the NiMH, but the lithium-ion battery will deliver better total performance over the life of the battery than NiCad and NiMH.The results are plainly seen in the the power delivery curve over the cycle life of the lithium-ion battery. The power delivery curve is steady compared to the older technology. This helps power delivery remain constant over the life of the charge. We all know what happens to a cordless tool when the battery starts to wind down.

It loses much of its power.The power loss at the end of the charge is drastically reduced in lithium-ion batteries. The lithium-ion battery delivers better total performance over the life of the battery than NiCad and NiMH. Another advantage of lithium-ion batteries is that cordless power tools have a better ergonomic design. With the battery not extending into the handle of the tool, manufacturers can make a more comfortable grip for their consumers to enhance the use of the tool. Lithium-ion batteries are the way of the future in cordless tools. NiCad and NiMH will be around for several more years but like cars, older models are eventually retired to make way for the new. Visit http://wwwjustcordlessdrills.com for more cordless drill information.

My name is Jim and I have been around tools all my life. I have been involved in electronics, the electrical trade, and industrial maintenance during my entire working career. I spent four years in the United States Marine Corps as a Test Equipment and Calibration Technician. I also went to Luzerne County Community College where I studied Electronic Technology. I have worked as an industrial electrician, on the road as a service technician, and as an industrial maintenance mechanic for the past twenty years. I have worked for such companies as T.J. Lipton (the Soup and Tea People), Cargill, and I am currently employed by Pepsico in their Gatorade Division. I also have my own website called http://www.justcordlessdrills.com, where you can get useful information on cordless drills and also find great deals if you have need of purchasing a quality brand name cordless drill.

Indexsidingpictures

Building Customer Loyalty

The following tips can apply to virtually any profession or industry. If you think that these are self-evident, then I challenge you to take a personal assessment. Print this page and keep the list on your desk for one week. Place a checkmark next to each item when you conduct an activity that fulfills one of these objectives. Can you check all of these items in one week? Are you actively practicing the commitment that you desire from your customers?

If you want loyalty, you have to give it

Makes a list of your most important customers or clients. For your general customers or clients, demonstrate your commitment in general terms and especially when they need you. For the most important customers, demonstrate your commitment and let them know how much you appreciate them. Sometimes loyalty takes sacrifice.

Communicate

Building a lasting relationship requires communication. Communication means listening to your customer or client, as well as conveying your own message. One sided communication is a speech, mutual communication is a conversation. Communicate when things are going well and when there are problems. When things are going as expected, bring it to their attention. When there are problems, provide the scope of the challenge and your solutions, preferably before the customer even knows that the problems exists. This builds credibility, confidence and trust.

Understand Your Customer's Goals

The products or services that you provide are only meaningful in the context of your customer's objectives. What you do is intended achieve financial or strategic objectives, or fulfill a need. Understand and communicate your value from the perspective of the customer. Be aware of changes that may affect the customer requirements and your perceived value so you can adjust accordingly.

Be Consistent

One of the best ways to manage expectations is to be consistent. Be consistent with your quality, your responsiveness and delivery of goods or services. Establish a routine schedule for communication with your most important customers, so you can call "just to talk" and check the pulse of the relationship.

Build Credibility

There are two easy ways to build credibility. First, do what you say you are going to do. If you leave a message to call back or make a commitment for follow-up, then call when you said you would call. Even if you do not have all the answers, call when you commit to call back. The second way to build credibility is to take time to get the best answer. Sometimes you may not know the best response to a situation or request. Ask for time to research and come back with the most accurate answer or information that you can obtain. Taking time for accuracy can be far more beneficial to your customer than a quickly but incorrect reply.

Cracker Jack Surprise

Give your customers something more than expected. Don't tell them in advance, just do something to demonstrate your appreciation. It can be as simple as a greeting card, email or small token to show your appreciation. Loyalty is a relationship, and it should be nurtured as you would care for a friend. Do not take it for granted.

______________________________________________________

Words of Wisdom

"An ounce of loyalty is worth a pound of cleverness." - Elbert Hubbard

"Unless commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes... but no plans." - Peter Drucker

"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor." - Vince Lombardi

______________________________________________________

About the Author:

John Mehrmann is a freelance writer and President of Executive Blueprints Inc., an organization devoted to improving business practices and developing human capital. http://www.ExecutiveBlueprints.com provides resource materials for trainers, sample Case Studies, educational articles and references to local affiliates for consulting and executive coaching.

http://www.InstituteforAdvancedLeadership.com provides self-paced tutorials for personal development and tools for trainers. Presentation materials, reference guides and exercises are available for continuous development.

You may distribute this article freely, print it, sell it, or include it as part of a package as long as it is intact, unchanged and delivered in the original format with acknowledgement to Executive Blueprints Inc.

Indexsidingpictures

Buying Your First Home And Sleeping Well At Night

The real estate process of buying a home for the typical family can be a very stressful event, almost at the top of the charts. The selection of a professional agent can be a tremendous benefit as a counselor and guide to navigate you through the process with as little stress as possible. The average home buyer spends very little time interviewing and investigating agents for the role as their agent.

The first part of the home buying process for many is the desire to look at homes and not the careful selection of a real estate agent. This can be a huge mistake as the knowledge and experience level of an agent can change the outcome of the stressful process to a smooth one. Many homebuyers end up with an agent by default, what I mean by this is that the buyer has no plan of action for selecting their agent. The introduction may have been as casual as the buyer calling on an ad or attending an open house.

Of course you want to start the home buying process with a strong foundation and finding the right agent will make a big difference in the total experience. As a first time home buyer you will depend on the expertise of your agent. You will not know what to expect or when to expect it within this very challenging process.

You will want to interview several agents before you even start looking for a home. By pursuing an interview process you will also educate yourself. Here are several areas you will want to discuss with agents that you are interviewing.

1. What is the experience level of the agent? Selecting someone that has at least two years or more of experience will show they have survived the test of time and the knowledge to assist you in the home buying process.

2. What is the geographical area that they service. As an agent works in a given neighborhood they will gain additional non-real estate knowledge such as which area has better schools, less rush-hour traffic or lower crime rates.

3. Does the agent carry errors and omissions insurance? This protects them and you when there is a contractual issue or an undisclosed defect in the home. The Department of real estate doesn't require a broker to carry it, and this is not something you want to find out after closing.

4. Many agents work only on a buyer broker agreement basis, you will be asked to sign a contract for several months during which you will be obligated to work with this agent exclusively for that time period. Other agents will ask you for this agreement once they have worked with you, both parties feel it is a good relationship, and you are ready to make an offer.

5. Always ask for references. A good agent will have their references ready for you.

6. In order to serve their client as best as possible some agents have decided not to represent both a buyer and seller in the same transaction. One of the main reasons for this is that it is very difficult to be an advocate for two parties with opposite goals.

7. How does the agent select the homes that they show you? Many agents will e-mail their clients a lot of properties and let the buyer decide which homes to see, this can be a very ineffective and time consuming process in which the buyer sees many homes that do not suit their needs. The best agents will preview all of the homes on the market that fit a buyers general criteria and then show their client only the best homes. This process leads to a much more efficient and beneficial outcome for the buyer.

8. Does the agent have a close relationship with a trustworthy and knowledgeable lender? By working closely with the lender an agent will be more able to guide the process ensuring that the buyer gets the best loan program for their situation and is only looking at homes that fit their budget.

So as you can see, by methodically and strategically selecting an agent you can positively influence the outcome of your home purchase.

Co-written by Randy Nathan and James Dedolph, creators of HomeSniffer.com where you can find Homes for Sale in San Diego and LoanSniffer.net where you can find the best rate and terms for Homes Loans in San Diego. Both of these sites are a good resource for information about San Diego Real Estate.

Adjustable Stair Handrail Fitting

The Pedal Air Gun: DIY Rally 2007, Part 10

By attaching an air compressor to a stationary bike, mechanical engineer Bill Llewellin invented a way to waste time while exercising. Here's the routine. Load a potato. Pedal for 2 minutes to build up air pressure. Pull the trigger, and watch the neighbors run.

There is one thing that can make a very big difference between having something that you use and that can help you from time to time and thee is a completely other thing which can be used from time to time but just having it will make your guests and yourself gaze and admire it, one such thing is a stone fire pit.

A stone fire pit is one of the most impressive things you can have in your garden, or in your outdoor kitchen, this unique idea has not been around for many years, but in the last few years people are more and more interested in having a stone fire pit in their garden or backyard. The stone fire pit looks like it is connected to the past, maybe a few hundreds of years ago almost every family in town had one but today it is truly a unique thing to have.

One of the great things in having a stone fire pit outside is that you will get a lot of freedom in deciding how it is going to look, and its looks is all what it’s about, the stone fire pit will be impressive no matter what why you make it when it is lit and the fire is on, the question is how would you like it to look when its off, and how would you like the stone of the fire pit to relate to your garden and garden features.

The important things to remember when looking for a stone fire pit are that you will need someone who knows how to design those, so that the fire is solid and that there is enough air flow to feed the fire so it is balanced on all sides of the stone structure, that it is safe and that you can approach the fire if you wish, some people like to get close to the fire pit in order to get warm or to fry marshmallows, either way you will need to make sure that the person in charge of building it knows what he is doing.

The basic design of a stone fire pit is almost always the same, and it is a very good opportunity for you to go wild and get whatever you had in mind, the only things you will need to consider are safety and usability of the stone structure, but other than that the stone fire pit is really about having something very impressive in your garden and that it will generate enough heat in the winter to keep you warm while you sit outside.

For those of you who are interested in something even more unique is the option to experiment with different stones and try and get all kinds of stones for the fire pit construction, this may cost a little more but it will guarantee that this will be one stone fire pit people will not forget, nevertheless, even a regular stone fire pit is something to be proud of.

Stone fire pits can be a great alternative to any major fire element in your garden or backyard, learn about Fire Pit at the firepits site http://firepit.zupatips.com

Clearing Blocked Drains With Drain Cleaner

One of the most aggravating things to encounter is a blocked drain. Though, it maybe a bit aggravating, there is a simple remedy. Before you call a plumber out or start plunging the sink try using a drain clearer. It is one of the easiest ways to clear a blocked drain. They are easy to use and there are several choices on the market.

You can find drain cleaner at most grocery stores, or any home improvement store. The cleaners that are available to the general public work by using either an acid based solution or an alkaline solution. This is the active ingredient in the drain cleaner that will break up and dissolve the clog. There are several new cleaners entering the market that call themselves "natural" cures to clogged drains. They use enzymes to eat through the grease and clog.

The prevailing wisdom is that the thicker the cleaning solution the better. This is because if the drain cleaner is thick, it will fill the entire pipe and cling to the walls of the pipes longer. This will clean the pipes quicker and remove any buildup that resulting in pipe becoming clogged in the first place.

Make sure that you read the directions. If you have a septic tank, make sure that the product specifically states that it is safe for septic systems. All you need to do is pour the amount the directions say into the drain. Do not just pour it all in, save at least a quarter of the bottle, in case you need to repeat the process. Let the drain cleaner sit for at least 20 minutes. If there is still standing water, let it sit for an additional 20 minutes. Once the water has cleared, turn the hot water on and let it run for five minutes. If the drain shows any sign that it is not completely cleared, repeat the process with the remaining drain cleaner.

A few safety tips to keep in mind. Wear safety goggles when pouring the drain cleaner, if any were to splash in your eyes it would burn badly. Make sure the room you are in is well ventilated. And most importantly, never mix cleaners; they can combine to make very toxic fumes. Clearing a blocked drain is easy to do with drain cleaner and should be your first step when trying to clear a clog.

J Wakefield is a part time freelance writer for PAV Plumbing Sydney. For further information on clearing a blocked drain using drain cleaner please visit the PAV Plumbing website.

PAV Plumbing is a fast response service offering plumbing solutions with superior customer service. Call for an experienced and reliable Sydney plumber.

Indexsidingpictures

Naturally Treat Osteoarthritis - 6 Tips To Cure Arthritis With No Medication

In America alone, an estimated 70 million people suffer from the debilitating effects of some form of arthritis or joint pain. Most of the sufferers will seek out expensive medical treatment offering nothing more than harsh side-effects but millions will allow the disease to run its course and make life miserable. But living with it does not have to leave you unable from doing the things you love. In fact, I have 70+ year old customers who write me every week and share how their arthritis is not a problem anymore. But just how did they do it and what's their secret?

Osteoarthritis- Is it ruining your life?

There are many different forms but the most common form is called osteoarthritis. The most common form affects over 60 million Americans. Osteoarthritis typically effects people who are 35 years of age and older. As a person becomes older, the pain appears after years of wear and tear on the joints between the bones, which is why it is called the 'degenerative joint disease'. Due to the repeated movement and weight upon the joint, the cartilage begins to break down causing inflammation and pain. Because of the nature of the problem, symptoms become worse and worse over time with use of joints. Normally, it begins at the knees and works its way up to the hips, fingers, spine and more (typically any joint bearing weight or strain).

Does this sound like you and your experience? If so, there is hope to treat it and actually rebuild the cartilage between the joints.

Stop Taking Medication

Medication and treatment varies from patient to patient, and is often a band-aid for the ailment. Let me explain! Doctors often prescribe expensive medications for the sufferer to hide the pain. The problem with hiding the pain is that the degeneration of the joint cartilage continues to occur even if the brain does not register the pain because of the meds. As the pain is hidden, the joint becomes more and more damaged and disfigured. The band-aid of medication is simply a remedy for disaster.

But you can start to naturally treat osteoarthritis with your nutrition, vitamins, supplementation and simple exercises. And you can save hundreds to thousands of dollars each year in the process.

Naturally Treat Osteoarthritis with 6 tips!

Researchers have been studying numerous primitive tribes who live solely off the land. Perplexed by their extraordinary health, researchers are studying why these tribes have better health than developed countries? These tribes have documented no heart disease as well as it being unheard of. In fact, members of these communities will work right up to the day of their death (usually around 100 years of age). How could this be? Could it be because members of the community have never eaten a bite of processed food? These natives have NOT eaten one additive in any of their meals. (An average American eats hundreds of additives each day.) In fact, all of their meals are fresh and spoil in weeks if not eaten. And finally, they live an active life. And you can do the same thing... even if you are 70 years YOUNG!

Here is a list of tips to naturally treat osteoarthritis!

1.Did you know that 80% of the world's population is walking around dehydrated? Instead of drinking water we have become consumers of soda, tea, coffee, juices or anything with flavor. Unfortunately, most of these drinks (containing caffeine) cause your body to lose water and create a vicious cycle of dehydration and poor health. As water drains the toxin and impurities of your body, it will also begin to naturally treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. You should start drinking at least 10-12 tall glasses of water a day.

2.A body flush! Did you know that fasting and flushing the body is biblical. It is actually commanded to routinely fast for spiritual and physical purposes in the Bible. And it will also greatly help you in your struggle. It would be recommended to take a monthly fast (drinking only water or natural juices) to naturally flush the body of arthritic causing alkalines. Your body will thank you!

3.Your nutrition! Your diet is the biggest factor contributing to whether you will struggle or be free of it. A good rule of thumb is to always eat fresh, raw foods with as little of processing as possible. You should be eating as much water-soluble fiber as possible which includes: fresh fruits and raw vegetables.

4.Foods that Hurt! These types of foods will create havoc to your pain and inflammation. Stay away from fast foods, processed foods, sugars and desserts. Do your best at finding healthy foods and you will notice a difference in 2 weeks.

5.Breathing! I know it sounds goofy to focus on your breathing but oxygen heals. And unfortunately, most people are not getting enough of it because of improper posture and stress. To learn some simple breathing exercises you can do at work, please check out our website which will lead you to our step-by-step report.

6.And exercise! If you are serious about treating arthritis; we guarantee that you will be feeling good enough to start exercising in three weeks. And exercise will eventually take stress off of joints by building muscle mass.

What is Your Choice?

Are you serious about treating your osteoarthritis? Do you want to feel like you are 30 again? Do you want to know what supplement can actually rebuild your joint cartilage so you feel like a 20 year old?

If you are ready to naturally treat osteoarthritis, please visit our website to see how our step-by-step natural treatment might be a right solution for you. And if you are in the least bit hesitant, we will also guarantee our treatment to treat it or you do not pay a cent. So stop paying hundreds to the multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical industry which gives you a band-aid. Start curing it naturally by visiting our website and joining the thousands who have discovered the cure!

Joe Barton writes for Barton Publishing which is a leading natural health company with a specialization to naturally treat osteoarthritis. To learn more about our 100% arthritis-free guarantee, please click below. Naturally Treat Osteoarthritis

Vertical 1 X 6 Siding On Porch

Understanding the Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is currently one of the most popular supplemental vitamins used. It's true discovery occured in 1747, by a Scottish surgeon James Lind. Dr. Lind found this special nutrient in citrus fruit, which he soon learned prevented scurvy. To find out the true effect of Vitamin C, he gave lemon juice, to sailors that were affected by this disease. After multiple treatments, his patients were healed on this condition. He later documented these findings in the widely popular book, The Treatise of Scurvy. In 1932, Vitamin C was finally isolated by a team of Hungarian scientists. In 1971, Vitamin C received a great deal of attention due to the efforts of another Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling. Dr. Pauling believed in vitamin C had many beneficial attributes on the body, which he published several best selling books. One of his most well-known books, Vitamin C and the Common Cold, illustrates the immune-enhancing effects of ascorbic acid on the body.

Our knowledge and understanding of the benefits of Vitamin C has increased substantially over the past several decades. Many people commonly take Vitamin C, as a way of avoiding a potential cold. Some argue that Vitamin C does not have realistic effect upon the suppression of colds. But, according to various clinic studies, many researchers that Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine, which helps reduce the severity of cold symptoms. This vitamin has been observed to shorten the duration of time that a cold occurs for. The appropriate amount of Vitamin C should be taken into consideration. Even though, Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin it is strongly advised that minimize taking large quantities.

Aside certain temporary ailments such a cold, Vitamin C is one of the important components to collagen production, which helps the rebuilding and healing process of our body. Many doctors advise that Vitamin C is beneficial in the minor reconstructive process of cuts, hairline fractures, surgical wounds, and broken bones. This does not mean that a physician advise and treatment is not necessary. It means that to help the body rebuild during these events, this vitamin is very beneficial. Aside from the oral intake of Vitamin C, it can help your skin externally. As an antioxidant, like Vitamin E, it can help the skin against the harmful free radical damage of UV rays.

As a heavily research antioxidant, Vitamin C like other vitamins, is seen having certain anti-cancer properties. Since this information is not solidified is not 100% conclusive. But, according to some sources this vitamin helps minimize DNA mutation, which is commonly the catalyst of cancer cell development. Vitamin C helps support our immune system from cancer cells. It does not fight these mutant cells directly but rather provides our immune system with the correct artillery to attack cancer cells.

Vitamin C is quite benefits for certain eye conditions. It has been studied to benefit elderly citizens suffering from cataracts. Cataracts is a fairly common eye condition, where the lens of the eye become cloudy or hazy. This progress can lead to blurred vision, eventually causing blindness. The way Vitamin C benefits the eye, is similar to the skin. It prevents the free radical damage created by the UV rays of sunlight. This vitamin when supplement will stagnant in the eye preventing further damage and reduce current lens damage. Another organ that is helps benefit in the heart. The lifeline of our body and brain is affected by this vitamin due its arterial maintainance. Similar in nature to other antioxidants, prevent the free radical damage to the arterial walls of the heart. With time, these damaged walls can damage plaque, which can occult the diameter of the vessel creating a blockage. Over time, multiple major blockages or clots can restrict blood flow to and/or from the heart. This is a common reason for heart attacks and strokes. Also, it helps the reduce the oxidization rate of LDL cholesteral, which you should monitor on an ongoing basis. As, posted previous the LDL cholestrol helps patch up this free radical damage created causing plaque to form and build. If untreated, you run the risk of blocking the arterial or dislodging the clot into your heart or brain. That is very serious, if not deadly!

For those suffer from pulmonary conditions, there may be some hope in learning from how Vitamin C can help. Due to its potent antioxidant benefits, it has been commonly observed that appropriate doses of can help those who suffer with asthma. It is believed that Vitamin C helps relax the lungs and minimize histamine release, which has been linked to an increase in pulmonary inflammation.

Based on my readings, those are some of the most benefits aspect of taking Vitamin C. It is always under the strong advise of a physician to look into this vitamin. In my opinion and in others, it is a great vitamin to supplement your body with. It is a beneficial way of providing all of your physiological systems with a certain nutrient that has crucial antioxidant properties. You should look for a quality multivitamin to supplement your diet with. It will definetely help you in the long run.

Vilash Reddy is president of Doc1Vitamins.com. Doc1Vitamins.com is a comprehensive nutritional website that features physician developed, highly effective vitamins and nutritional supplements. It contains various health resources for help educate visitors on the importance of quality nutrition and supplementation.

Indexsidingpictures

Laminate Wood Flooring - Some Fake Materials Look More Natural

There is perhaps no finer flooring choice than laminate wood flooring. The durability, style, and affordability are just some of the many reasons why so many people choose laminate wood flooring over the real thing.

You have so many wonderful choices when it comes to laminate wood flooring today. You can duplicate almost any wood flooring surface that you desire and at a fraction of the cost of the real wood flooring surfaces on the market today.

Classic woods like beech, merbau, oak, maple, cherry or walnut can be had with laminate wood flooring. You may notice some very slight differences in the materials from maker to maker, but for the most part all of the manufactures of laminate wood flooring are very high quality. You will find that there is nothing fake looking about this material at all.

The pride of saving money has become a bigger deal than many ever thought. It is almost a badge of honor for people to realize that you were able to install such beautiful wood flooring at a fraction of the cost of the real material.

Most laminate wood flooring is priced at well less than a dollar per square foot. You can receive even greater discounts for larger amounts of product. The flooring companies will often run specials on laminate wood flooring since it is not a material that is subject to the demand of real wood surfaces. Real wood is always subject to the economy and supply of the materials.

For more information on flooring try visiting http://flooring-solution.com a website that specializes in providing helpful flooring tips, advice and resources to include Laminate Wood Flooring and more.

Exteriorchecklist

Using Laminate Floor Underlayment

When installing laminate flooring you will have to inspect the surface that it will be installed over and decide if it is an appropriate surface to install over or if you need to apply a laminate floor underlayment. While the laminate floor manufacturers say that their flooring product can be installed without any surface prep or additional work you must use common sense when evaluating you the surface you intend to install your flooring over.

When you install your laminate floor underlayment you will need to make absolutely sure that no nail heads are sticking up or that any adhesive was allowed to dry on the surface. These two situations will cause a severely uneven floor and high nail heads may even cause the floor to rise in spots. Many flooring contractor use screws to secure the laminate floor underlayment to avoid this potential problem. You must also make sure that after the install the new sub flooring is swept clean of all dirt and debris, dirt can actually make its way up onto the floor over time causing an annoying dust problem that may last a long time. When you install your underlayment try and make sure the largest joints will run opposite the laminate flooring joints, this will guarantee that there will be no laminate floor joints directly over a sub flooring joint. If this happens an uneven floor could result after settling and shifting occurs. After the final installation of the new sub floor it should be level with no low spots to affect the final look of the laminate floor installation.

Numerous material can be used as a laminate floor underlayment and the most common are thinner fiber boards and plywood. Thinner material works best on floors that just need to be leveled out and if holes need to be covered then But whatever material you choose make sure that the floor you will be installing over is flat and free from low spots or other damage and the material you choose was appropriate for the job.

Learn more about Wood laminate flooring and be sure and read all our laminate floor care articles that are available Here

Building Your House Help

Remodeling Porches

Fixing up a porch is a great idea that will extend the use of your home considerably. Using just some paint, stain and basic carpentry skills, you can make your porch a pleasure to spend time on.

An example shown on DoItYourself.com shows a couple from Georgia who wanted enjoy their extended warm seasons of spring, summer and fall, but avoid the problems of mosquitoes and decided to take their slab concrete patio and make it into a screened in area they could enjoy almost all year long.

The patio was just concrete square under a roof overhang. They wanted the porch to blend in with the home, as well as protect the family from the heat, humidity and insects of the Georgia summers. The concrete slab declined slightly to allow for runoff, so there had to be some adjustments made to accommodate this feature.

Here is their step by step solution:

Step One. Cut pre-primed 4X8 sheets of beadboard ceiling paneling.

Step Two. Install the celing paneling and the ceiling fan. They used a nail gun to make the installation of the ceiling panels faster and easier than trying to swing a hammer upward. Before all of the panelling was installed, the ceiling was wired for the fan and light. This will allow the porch to remain cool and the light will allow the room to be used at night. This was a two person job, with one person holding the fan and the other connecting the wires and screwing the fan in place. The finish trim hid the seams in the paneling.

Step Three. Frame out the porch. Using 2X4 boards, they spaced them to allow for standard width screen to be installed. The crosspieces were nailed directly through the vertical braces.

Step Four. Install the interior panelling. Pine and plywood bead board paneling was secured by staple gun. These had to be trimmed along the bottom to accommodate the uneven floor.

Step Five. Install and level the exterior paneling. The harbor ad exterior panels wear put into place, from the bottom up. The first one had to be custom cut to allow for the uneven ground line and then the rest followed. These panels were painted to match the existing exterior of the house, so there was a lot of trial and error to match the aged yellow paint exactly. But weather resistant exterior paint was used so that it can be easily kept clean by rinsing Wit soap and water.

Step Six. Do the screening. Vinyl grids had to be screwed directly into the wooden frames. Then the screens were attached to the channels in the grids, so the fiberglass or aluminum screens could be slid in without using staples. When the screens were rolled into the grids with a spline, the extra screening material was cut off. With a mallet, the caps over the vinyl channels were banged into place.

Being really passionate about tree trimming and saw sharpening, Ray Walberg wrote plenty of detailed articles in this specific field. Sharing his passion in detailed publications, the author improved his experience on topics like chain saws and saw sharpening.

Pressure Treated Lumber

If you are building a deck, retaining wall or a swing set for the kids it is highly likely that your material of choice is pressure treated lumber.

Pressure treated lumber, if installed properly, should provide a 40 year useable life. However, there are some things about pressure treated lumber that you have to know, in order to obtain that life and not have your project fall apart in a few years.

To create pressure treated lumber, raw lumber is impregnated with two waterborne compounds that are copper based chemicals. The amount of copper basically determines the usage and all pressure treated lumber, sold in the US, is supposed to have a tag stapled to the end of the board signifying its pounds of preservative per cubic foot of wood product:

0.25 Above Ground

0.40 Ground Contact

0.60 Permanent Wood Foundation

2.50 Salt Water

Because the lumber is impregnated with Copper, the choice of fasteners becomes very important. When two dissimilar metals come in contact with one another a galvanic reaction is created, the outcome is that the materials corrode and disintegrate. The higher the levels of copper in the lumber the faster that the corrosion will occur.

Although most people realize that they must use corrosion resistant fasteners and connectors many do not consider items such as flashings and light poles that are also in contact with the pressure treated lumber. Of course the best metals to use for fasteners, flashings and anything else that comes in contact with the deck is stainless steel or copper whenever possible. Stainless steel is expensive and copper is not conveniently available at your local lumber supply so the next best material is steel that has been galvanized.

Galvanized fasteners come in different grades (the thickness of the coating), better manufactures mark the box with a G rating. The higher the G rating, the more zinc used. You shouldnt use less than a G-90 rating and engineers are now suggesting the use of G-185. If the box is not marked it is probably a G-60 or less and this will not provide enough zinc coating to prevent galvanization from occurring. Cadmium plated nuts, bolts and screws do not provide any protection from corrosion whatsoever.

Some manufactures have created composite coatings for use with pressure treated lumber. Read the label on the box and make sure that what you are buying is suitable for the job.

Do not use aluminum flashing, deck flashing must be stainless steel, galvanized or copper. Aluminum corrodes very quickly when in contact with copper. This also means that metals items that come in contact with the pressure treated lumber must also be protected, items such as outdoor furniture, and barbeques should have rubber or vinyl feet or wheels.

For additional information on pressure treated lumber for your home or other renovation projects, visit Renovation Headquarters.

Bell Tower In Fallbrook Calif

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles were previously seen as roofing material for low-slope houses. Over the years, they have been found out to be a significant roofing alternative for steep-sloped roofs as well.

Metal shingles are usually meant to look like traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or tiles, but metal shingles come with a greater guarantee to ward off rough weather. Many consider these shingles to be the strongest roofing material available. Contrary to popular belief, modern technology has made metal shingles very light, and they are a feast for the eyes, and also have very high fire-resistant ratings.

These classic shingles give a building a timeless look and often come with permanent color warranties. They can be made out of a wide variety of metals like aluminum, copper, stainless steel, zinc and phosphate coating, and alloys of tin and zinc. The different metals can be suitably chosen by the prospective buyer according to his geographical location and climate.

There are other minor details that a buyer should keep in mind. Stainless steel shingles are said to weigh less than most other traditional roofing material. Metal shingles made with alloys of zinc and aluminum should ideally not be painted. Tin roofs should be painted at an interval of eight years. Zinc and tin alloys are perfect for rough coastal weather. These are the various issues that should be considered before making one's choice.

There are a number of benefits that the owner can enjoy once he chooses metal shingles as his primary roofing material. They come with excellent resistance guarantee to strong wind, fires, hail and storms, earthquakes, and other such natural calamities. They are also well protected from pests and are extremely anti-corrosive. Most manufacturers offer a fifty-year warranty on their metal shingles.

Metal shingles are mostly recycled and statistics show that they are, in most cases, 100% recyclable. Installation is also relatively simple, but consulting a roofing professional would probably be considered a smart idea.

Shingles provides detailed information about shingles, cedar shingles, fiberglass shingles and more. Shingles is affiliated with Home Foundation Repair.

Structural Repair