Doomed to repeat

Philosopher George Santayana once stated, "Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." We see this repeatedly in military history, political history, and personal history. When we fail to learn from our parents' mistakes, we make the same mistakes. Thus we see things like higher divorce rates among children of divorcees. This principle applies to life in varied aspects. In the realm of home business, it serves the same purpose. Those who fail to learn from the history of home business are doomed to repeat some of the same mistakes. So what fatal flaws do we see in the history of home business?

The first fatal flaw which comes to mind involves Egyptian architectural structures. That's right, the pyramid. Several people have heard of pyramid schemes, but few can explain them, and only those hurt by them truly understand them and their potential for damage. Consider this scenario: a family with small children, strapped for cash because their jobs simply do not allow them to care for their family in a lifestyle they desire. So they hear about this great opportunity. All they must do is sell a product. Furthermore, if they can sell the possibility of selling the product by convincing others to do the same, they will eventually have the opportunity to sit back, enjoy life, and just watch the dollars roll in. There's a catch, however. They must invest some of their own money. After all, it takes money to make money. So they clean out their savings account and begin to invest. They start selling their out-of-this-world product, and they even convince a couple of their friends to do the same. They start begin to see some money roll back in from their hard work, and they feel great. Suddenly, the company closes shop. Everything dries up, because their market has been saturated by the plethora of sales people, and not have they lost their extra income, but they have an empty savings account and uncomfortable silence around those friends who invested with them.

So how do we avoid this scheme? First and foremost, with any home business opportunity, the seeker must do his homework. He needs to read about the company, ask around about it, and learn not just about its product but also its business practices. He also should ask about how sales people make money and receive promotions. If an individual receives a promotion simply by teaching others to sell under him or her, then you have a pretty fishy-sounding business. Solid businesses rely on sharp sales people to sell their product. Thus sales people do just that: sell the product. They do not turn into recruiters for the company.

An additional fatal flaw that has occurred repeatedly in the history of home business focuses on self-discipline. Certainly a great majority of individuals desire to spend more time with their families, and they see a home business as the perfect opportunity to blend family with vocation. However, they often misunderstand the necessary balance for business in the midst of the home. They begin to simply work when they feel like it, and they ignore the self-discipline that may have granted them success in the traditional work world. They do not maintain regular hours, and they begin to see their clients drop off or they cannot obtain a client in the first place.

Those who work at home should not sacrifice family for business. However, they must find the critical balance so that they provide for their family while still meeting their emotional and psychological needs. They can do this best by maintaining regular business hours. Certainly kids can visit the home office while dad or mom is at work, but kids also must understand that just like they have specific times in their lives for eating, playing, and sleeping, their parents have specific times for working. History tells us that those who work hard and find that balance will indeed succeed at their venture.

We have memories for a reason: to remember what occurred and to learn from those memories. If we only remember things with a chuckle, a sigh, or a frown, then we have learned nothing. But if we can take a lesson from the memory, such as those in the home business realm, we have nuggets of gold to invest in future success.

Flower bulbs

If you're seriously interested in knowing about Bulb Flowers, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about Bulb Flowers.

Once you begin to move beyond basic background information, you begin to realize that there's more to Bulb Flowers than you may have first thought.

Just about every flower gardener will work with bulb plants at one time or another. Bulbs are loved by gardeners for the ease with which they grow, their hardiness and the fact that they can bloom again and again for many consecutive seasons without the need to replant. With all these advantages, it is no wonder that bulb plants are so popular among both new and experienced gardeners.

Choosing the right bulbs, however, is one thing that many beginning gardeners have trouble with. After you develop and eye and feel for finding the best bulbs, however, you will be able to spot them from across the garden center.

When choosing bulbs for your garden, it is important to choose the firmest and largest bulbs. The size of the bulb is important, since large bulbs are more likely to provide many blooms. The firmness of the bulb is a good indication of its health, and bulbs that are soft or mushy are unlikely to bloom. Bulbs are particularly susceptible to water damage. It is important to choose a bulb that is not to soft, but it is also important to look for cracks or scars. Bulbs with cracks or scars may have become too dry to bloom. Likewise, any bulbs that have begun to spout roots should be avoided, as they are unlikely to bloom properly once planted.

How bulbs are planted in the garden is important as well. Most bulbs are best planted in the fall, most commonly in early to mid October. The goal is to get the bulbs into the ground six weeks before the ground begins to freeze, so obviously the best time to plant will vary from location to location.

Bulbs should be planted in a well prepared soil, and the depth they should be planted will be determined by the type of bulb. For example, crocus bulbs are generally planted four inches deep, daffodil and hyacinth bulbs six inches deep and tulip bulbs at a depth of eight inches.

A simple gardening tool called a bulb planter is great for achieving a more uniform look to the blooming garden. Bulb planters can be used to easily prepare perfect looking rows of flowers. Those gardneres who prefer a more wild and freewheeling look, on the other hand, often dig a single hole and plant several bulbs in it. This approach can lead to spectacular, if somewhat unpredictable, patterns once the bulbs begin to bloom.

It is important to use a small amount of fertilizer at the bottom of each hole you dig when planting bulbs. The fertilizer should then be topped with a thin layer of soil, and the bulb carefully placed on top of the soil. It is important not to place the bulb directly on top of the fertilizer, as doing so could damage the bulb. Bulbs are always planted with the pointed end stick up and the flat, rooted side lying on top of the layer of soil. After the bulbs are in place, the rest of the hole should be filled with soil and the garden should be given a thorough watering.

Even though bulbs are among the hardiest of garden plants, there are a few important things to remember. One important technique to become familiar with is deadheading. The term deadheading should already be familiar to those gardeners who work with perennials. Deadheading is simply removing spent blooms in order to encourage more blossoms to develop. This process is important with bulb plants as well. When working with bulbs, however, it is important not to remove the leaves from the plants until the leaves have begun turning brown.

Taking care of the bulbs over the winter is important as well. In warmer climates, many bulbs can remain in the ground over winter. It is important, however, to remove tender bulbs such as dahlias, even in warmer climates. These bulbs should be stored over the winter in a cool, dry location.

Bulbs are wonderful plants for any gardener, from the newest to the most experienced. Their combination of hardiness, color and beauty make them hard to beat for any flower enthusiast.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

Offshore banking new strategies for a new century

The primary objective of any type of offshore banking strategy is to provide the investor with asset protection and financial privacy. Over the years, offshore banking has had many names and has been referred to as an "underground economy" privy only to unsavory types seeking to exploit loop holes in worldwide banking systems. In reality, offshore investing is your first step to securing your financial well being. No longer reserved for the super rich, you can establish overseas accounts with as little as $1000 dollars U. S.

With this availability of offshore banking to almost anyone, there are as many reasons one would participate in this type of asset allocation. One of the major opportunities that have presented itself in the early part of the century is foreign real estate ownership as an offshore banking strategy. With the flow of cheap dollars and an overheated real estate market in the United States, many have sought the relatively easy on the pocket prices and stable political climates of countries such as Spain, Poland, and Hungary.

Another offshore banking strategy that has always been popular is tax minimization. Can you think of anyone who thinks they pay too little taxes? As one might imagine, this is the primary reason investors seek offshore opportunities but come to find some real value in looking abroad.

While offshore banking still remains a confusing term for many as it is usually associated with rich people hiding their money in foreign countries, offshore banking is legal and is perhaps the most effective way to protect one’s assets.

Offshore banking is an increasingly attractive alternative to the sometimes heavily regulated financial markets of one’s home country and has become reality for many ordinary people. Due to its growing popularity, offshore banking is one of the most rapidly growing industries and can be obtained in the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia-Pacific Region and Europe.

Global Access - Offshore banking is structured to provide global access and transference of funds to any location you choose but take some time a do your due diligence as the wrong decision can be costly. You can learn more about offshore accounts by visiting offshorebankingreview. com, and request a copy of the 10 things you should know before you open an offshore account.

Checking the status of your tax refund online

More than a few people are happy to learn they are due a tax refund after filling out their tax returns. If you are one of these people, here is how to check the status of your refund online.

Checking The Status of Your Tax Refund Online

Before getting into checking your refund status, I feel obligated to mention a few things about tax refunds. One involves the nature of refund and the other involves Internet scams.

If you are getting a sizeable refund, you need to give some thought to how much money you are deducting from paychecks or paying in quarterly taxes. While a tax refund may sound like a good thing, it really is not. If you overpay your taxes during the year, you are giving the government a free loan. The IRS does not pay interest on any excessive tax payments, so you are really taking it in the pants by not modifying your tax payments.

The second issue to keep in mind is you can ONLY check the status of your tax refund online by going to the IRS web site. With phishing scams starting to focus on tax issues, you may receive emails regarding any and all facets of tax refunds. These emails are scams! The IRS does not send you emails, and surely doesn’t alert you to the fact you are due a refund. If you want to check on your refund, go to the IRS web site and nowhere else. Do not turn a good thing like a tax refund into a bad thing like identity theft.

To check the status of your tax refund, go to the IRS web site by searching for it in a search engine. Next, click the Where’s My Refund link on the home page. Follow the simple steps, click enter and the status will be shown. FYI, you will need a copy of your tax return.

Once you have completed the above, the IRS software will give you a couple of responses. Summarized, they include the fact the return has been received, but not yet processed; the tax refund has been mailed or wired to your bank account on a particular date; or notice the IRS was unable to deliver the refund to you because of some mailing problem. The IRS will also let you know if the refund is delayed because it has issues with your tax return.

Once again, you may want to tweak your tax payments if you are due a sizeable refund. There is little reason to give the government a free loan during the year. They already take too much of your money.

You won that ebay auction now what do you do

It’s a heady feeling when you win your first eBay auction: a mixture of happiness and perhaps just a little fear. After all, there seems to be so much to do before you can actually get your item. What do you do next?

The simple answer is: you send payment to the seller, as quickly as possible. The quicker you pay, the more your seller will like you, and the sooner your item will arrive. But how you go about it? That all depends on how you plan to pay.

PayPal.

PayPal is one of the most popular options for paying on eBay, to the point where eBay decided to buy the company. It allows instant electronic payment across the Internet. Money goes instantly from your credit or debit card to the seller’s PayPal account, where they can either use it for Internet purchases or transfer it out to their bank.

eBay offer incentives for using PayPal, and almost all sellers now accept it. Its instant nature makes sellers very happy, and means that they can have your item packed and sent and leave you some positive feedback within a few hours of the auction ending. When paying by PayPal, you will be covered by PayPal’s own insurances and guarantees, as well as any that your card might have.

Cheques and Money Orders.

This is payment the old-fashioned way, and will lead to a long wait to your item. You need to post the cheque or money order, then the seller has to take it to the bank and get it cleared, and only then do they send the item. The only reason to use this method is if either you or the seller distrusts electronic payment methods. If you’re willing to go to the trouble with these sellers, though, you might get an item very cheaply, as most buyers just can’t be bothered.

When you pay by cheque or money order, make sure to print the eBay order confirmation page (it will be emailed to you) and put it in the envelope with your payment. Underline or circle key information like your mailing address and the item number. Finally, remember to be patient: keep in contact with the seller, as it really can take a month or two before everything falls into place and your item turns up.

Money Transfers and Bank Deposits.

Some sellers may ask you to pay them using a wire service like Western Union, or simply give you a bank account number and ask you to pay money into it. Unless you really trust the seller, this is generally a bad idea – these methods are hard to trace and you’re unlikely to get any money back if anything goes wrong. Paying in cash, it hardly needs to be said, is an even worse idea.

It’s all a lot to take in, isn’t it? I’m sure by now you’ve got a few questions, which is why the next email will be a little eBay buyer’s FAQ. Let’s hope we can solve any problems you might have.

Clear clutter for a cozy casa

Is your house so messy you can never find what you’re looking for? Are you often late for work because you can never find your car keys? These tips will help save time and keep you more organized.

Keep things in a place that makes sense. Drop your keys in a dish by the front door so you won’t waste time looking for them throughout the house. Put anything you need to take with you by the front door - outgoing mail, your briefcase or the library books that need to be returned. This will save you time in the morning because you won’t be running around trying to gather what you need for the day.

Straighten up as you go. Pick up the newspaper and put in the recycle bin instead of leaving it on the coffee table. Fill the dishwasher after every meal instead of once a day. Put your groceries away rather than leave them on the kitchen table. How can you possibly know what food you do or don’t have if last week’s haul is still in the bag? This makes the kitchen an appealing place to enjoy a meal instead of a constant reminder of chores that need to be done.

Finish one project before starting another. I have a friend who has started to update his bathroom, never finished the project and is now working on his kitchen. His house is constantly in a state of confusion and he never manages to get any project completed because it’s now so overwhelming.

Keep your bathroom tidy. Wipe up the sink and vanity top after you shave or wash your face and put your toiletries away. Doing these small things as you go keeps the bathroom looking cleaner in case unexpected guests stop by - you won’t have to be embarrassed if they ask to use the facilities.

Organize your closets. If your closet is filled to capacity, you can’t see what you have. Instead of squeezing everything into your closet, keep out of season clothes in the spare bedroom closet. Keep shoes in boxes or shoe racks. Donate any garments that no longer fit or if you haven’t worn them in the past season. Don’t hang onto things you can’t use anymore because there is someone out there who will be grateful to have it.

Keep your important documents and papers in a safe place. Birth certificates, passports, marriage license, divorce papers, the deed to your house and the title to your car should be filed in a fireproof lockbox. Better yet, they should be kept in a safe deposit box at a bank close to home so it’s convenient for you to retrieve them when needed. If you keep important financial information on your home computer, it’s a good idea to backup to a flash drive and keep this at the bank too. The cost of a safe deposit box is worth the peace of mind knowing you won’t have to replace these documents if they were ever lost in a disaster.

Taking small steps every day to keep organized will help keep your casa cozy and clutter-free.

Bad publicity is leaving many homeowners wary of taking mortgage protection

With the bad publicity which has recently surrounded payment protection insurance products, many homeowners are wary of taking out mortgage protection which is leaving them wide open to losing the roof over their head if they were to suddenly find they lost their income.

Mortgage protection can give you an income with which to continue meeting your monthly mortgage repayments if you should come out of work due to suffering from an accident, illness or if you should become unemployed. While there are problems within the sector and there is much confusion as the products are not differentiated between mortgage protection can be a very worthwhile product. You do however have to ensure that it is suitable for your circumstances before you take out the cover and this is because there are exclusions which mean it is not suitable for all individuals.

While exclusions can vary depending on the provider there are some that are common to all policies. Being self-employed, retired, only in part time work or suffering an ongoing illness would mean it would not be suitable for your circumstances. You do have to check the small print for additional ones and to find out about the terms and conditions of the policy because these too can vary.

Policies will usually begin to payout between day 31 and 90 and then continue for between 12 and 24 months depending on the provider. Premiums for mortgage protection can vary greatly too and going with an independent specialist provider will get you the cheapest premiums for the cover. The premium will be based on your age at the time of taking out the policy and how much your monthly mortgage repayments are.

A specialist provider will also have the experience when it comes to selling the products which means you can benefit from their experience by way of reading articles and facts regarding the insurance they sell. They will also give you the key facts document and explain the exclusions in plain English so that you are able to make a decision before buying. Ignorance of the exclusions is what caused the majority of mis-selling and it is hoped that in March 2008 buying mortgage cover and payment protection related products will become easier.

The Financial Services Authority is introducing comparison tables which it is hoped will take some of the mystery out of buying cover. The consumer will be able to answer a series of questions which depending on the answers will lead them to buying the most suitable type of cover for their needs. Along with this the tables will explain the exclusions which exist in the policy and how much in total the cover will cost. Cover needs to be made more transparent if mis-selling is to stop and right now the only thing in the favour of the consumer is an independent specialist. Never be tempted to take out the cover that is offered alongside your mortgage at the time of taking it out, you do not have to buy it this way, you can choose to go independently for your mortgage protection cover.

Affordable student health insurance - why student health insurance can be cheap

Student health insurance can be affordable, and even cheap, if you choose a plan that offers the exact coverage your student needs, and if you understand the coverage your student has. By choosing the coverage your student needs, you won’t have to worry about paying for any medical costs that you know your student will acquire. And, by making sure you thoroughly understand your student’s coverage, you won’t be hit with any surprise costs along the way.

The first step to finding affordable student health insurance is to ask about any health coverage offered to your student by his or her school. Many colleges and universities provide medical services via on-campus clinics to students. These medical services may be available free or at a very low cost – and what’s more affordable than that?

Next, ask about pre-existing conditions. For example, your student may be diabetic; medical care for pre-existing conditions such as diabetes may not be offered through the school. If this is the case, consider purchasing a smaller, additional health insurance policy to cover treatment for diabetes while using the school-provided services for situations such as common colds. This will help keep student health insurance affordable.

Finally, find out everything you possibly can about the student health insurance plan and/or the medical services offered by the school. How much is covered if your student visits the emergency room? Is your student allowed to visit any health care professional, or is there a network of doctors from which he or she must choose? You may think you’ve purchased an affordable student health insurance plan, but if emergency room visits aren’t covered – or very little of the cost is covered – you’ll be faced with a bill that won’t make the student health insurance plan seem so affordable after all.

Know which services are available, which services aren’t, as well as how to obtain each and you’ll find affordable student health insurance.

Leather sofas choosing tips

Leather sofas and leather sofa sets come in a diversity of colors and styles. A leather sofa is the ideal way to improve a room's decor and they are also simple to keep clean. But furniture upholstered in leather can be one of the most luxurious furniture out there.

Today leather furnishings are existing in an amazing number of styles and price points. Certainly, the price matters. And maybe an all leather sofa priced at $700 still sounds too costly to you. But thats about what you can suppose to pay to get a leather sofa on a fairly good built frame. The value of that deal will become apparent over time.

You can get the look and feel of leather for a smaller amount of money by purchasing a sofa that is leather everywhere your body touches and matching man-made material on the sides and back. Be sure to ask your vendor for specifics on construction, leather grade and compare details at diverse price levels. A good leather furnishings investment nowadays can become tomorrows heirloom.

Choosing the true leather, means taking into consideration the flexibility and feel that works for the surroundings of your home. So I’ll try to give you as much information as possible to make sure that the living room with leather sofa you choose isn’t just the best looking, but its also the best suitable leather for you.

Some details about leather and leather sofas in particlular:

- Leather has a versatile quality and blends with any furnishing mode whether traditional or contemporary.

- Leather is a natural skin, and just like human skin, it is flexible enough to stretch and return to its original shape.

- Leather breathes. It is cool in the summer and retains warmth in the winter months.

- Leather seats never feel sticky the way synthetic materials do. The pleasures of leather are for every day and for everyone.

- Leather is not a special occasion covering. It can stand up to the rigors of everyday life and most types clean easily and are very serviceable.

- Leather is fire resistant and emits no toxic fumes, even when exposed to extreme heat.

- Leather resists tearing and cracking.

- Leather wont stretch out of shape.

- Leather is prestigious and gains richness and appeal over the years.

Corrected Leather: Corrected leather has been sanded to have the blemishes removed and then embossed to give it a uniform look. It also has had protective coatings applied to make it more soil resistant and have better color consistency.

Uncorrected Leather: With uncorrected leather, the best hides are selected which are more supple to the touch and will develop a beautiful patina over time. another characteristic is the romance and story that this leather tells; the natural scars, bug bites, neck wrinkles, brands and the slight difference in the shading of color on the hides will create a unique look to your furniture. This leather is not as soil resistant as corrected leather.

Learn forex trading - how to create an income by forex trading part time from home

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Can you really make a living trading forex as a business from the comfort of your own home? Can you really create a replacement income as a part time trader and then retire young?

Of course, the answer depends on how much is your current income or the desired amount of income you wish to obtain from forex trading before you wish to quit the rat race and be a professional trader, either part time or full time.

But there are many traders who are quietly making 5 figure incomes monthly trading from the comfort of their homes, and some of these are part time traders.

So before you embark into forex trading as a part time trader, here are some guidelines you ought to consider:

1. Your devotion of time - how much time are you going to devote to trading forex? Contrary to popular opinion, you do not need to be glued to your trading monitor to watch the prices of forex or currency pairs all the time. The larger part of your time is spent on finding those trading setups based on your trading system and the execution is fast, and you can also pre-set your stops and profits or give instructions to your broker.

In fact, it is the learning process that will take time. So budget sufficient time to learn how to trade, and that time allocation is actually required before you even place a live trade.

2. Your allocation of capital - again, if you trade the mini forex the amount of capital is not large. Contrary to popular opinion, you can start a mini forex account with around $500 and can start to trade. With a mini forex account you can leverage off the system and be profitable.

3. Your Risk Profile and Trading Discipline - you need to consider your risk profile. Are you aggressive in trading, so that you will prefer day trading the forex and thereby assume more risks? Or are you happy enough swing trading the forex over a few days? This will determine the methodology and trading system you will want to follow.

4. Advancing as a Forex Trader - to advance further as a forex trader, you will need to constantly improve your trading skills and see increase profits in your trading. Good traders always keep a trading log and review whatever trades they have executed and consider the outcomes. In this way, they learn from their errors and know whether they have obediently followed their trading strategies and had kept and maintain discipline in their trading.

In making the transition into a forex trader, the learning process is the most important. Many forex traders have muddled along the way by a self learning process without guidance, with the end result that while they may be profitable, they are not consistently profitable. Many of them are seeking ways to unlearn some of their bad trading habits. You can avoid such a situation by understanding your own risk profile, and seeking out a professional trader who can become your mentor and to pass on his trading skills to you.

Subscription management software better management of member accounts

All things online can always have its way on them, there are a lot of things that websites do automatically which could always mean good to the industry such as subscription management software. There are a lot of programs out to be easily configured to a less experienced; often there are automated settings to keep a website running with little or minimal human intervention.

Managing a business is always difficult in the real world; this might also apply in the online world if you have little experience, this is crucial in you subscription management software. Websites, armed-to-the-teeth have most of the modern capabilities to manage member databases and keep them running in tip-top condition. The world of software's are limitless, there could always be a workaround on any problems if deemed necessary.

Advantages of content management

Content management system are the ones that keep a given website in good running condition, this has to do with all the things that run around the entire database. They update, modify, tune-up, send emails, and many other things that the site needs.

Subscription management software is only as intelligent as to the one that programmed or configured it, consistent revision of your needs, but this can also be prevented with the proactive measures being used by the administrators. The content management system is flexible and can be customized to your hearts' content.

Being competitive will always be your utmost priority if you would have to manage the contents on your website through good coded software's, this also applies to your member database, but it doesn't mean you need constant human intervention to keep things up to the edge of competition standards, it all comes to the proactive measures that you can employ to be less bothersome in the long run.

Getting more out of your Control panel

Control panel is the control center of your website that enables you to manage everything going on to your website. You can access almost all of the databases here; hence, you can toggle everything and configuring them to your hearts content. There are several versions of control panels or subscription management software out in the market. You can have a better understanding to them by comparing your checklist of needs to the solutions they offer. Administrative power with a nice graphical user interface is a good thing with starters and other online business enthusiasts. On the early days of website configuration, they are organized using command lines, which will be a burden to anybody not having ample knowledge on HTML and other languages that a website uses.

From here you can have access to all the website statistics, this can play a good point to figure out your strategies and being proactive with them.

Control panels can have a very good GUI or graphical user interface, desirable features that any administrator would need. But with all these, you really only need the software features itself. It doesn't matter if it has a very nice touch of interface, focusing on the added features will eventually lessen the burden of managing other things in your website. You can concentrate on how it works rather than how it looks, for example, you can access your subscription management software database to get more of customers that will probably spend on your site, and giving them the right content is crucial as they are the ones that fuel your web infrastructure.

Go ahead and tweak them to your heart's desire, eventually you will get it to work on your needs and your sites' needs as well.

Mother s day the second sunday in may

The second Sunday in May comes every year with little fanfare. Many of us nearly forget it as Mother’s day one time or another. Mother’s Day can be a joy of sharing thoughtfulness, care, and consideration with Mother’s Day cards, flowers, and gift ideas. But, the true gift is showing mom we love her and expressing it in a way that is meaningful to her.

Every year in America we celebrate Mother’s Day on the Second Sunday of May. Although we are only half way to Christmas, a special gift is due to a special endearing person, your mother. You can tell your mom, in a very special way, how much you love her and how much you appreciate her, but showing her that you love her is what truly counts.

A bouquet of flowers for her on Mother’s Day is certainly an appropriate and thoughtful gift idea. Mother’s Day flowers tend to express what words cannot say and fill the home with beauty and soft fragrance. Mother’s Day flowers convey tenderness and beauty to a mom who will remember moments of sweetness a bouquet of flowers will bring to mind.

We can show mom our love by taking time out of our busy lives to visit her, to call her, and to be with her. As children we experienced unconditional love from our mother. As adults we need to honor that love in reciprocation. This year, on the second Sunday in May, take time out to tell her how special she is. You may say it with a lovely Mother’s Day card or a Mother’s Day gift that is selected especially for her.

A Mother-in-law is also entitled to a sincere gesture of care and thoughtfulness on Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day can help us to strengthen this special relationship. On Mother’s Day you can convey that she is truly an integral part of the family, and that you wish to give her a place in your family’s daily life. Mother’s Day offers an opportunity to share a few moments of consideration for your mother-in-law with caring thoughts, a Mother’s Day card and a unique Mother’s Day gift she would enjoy.

The ideal Mother’s Day gift would be a gift idea that she would find useful and practical. It would also be elegant and exquisite. A gourmet kitchen gift or selections of imported gourmet condiments make great gift ideas for a Mother’s Day.

An excellent gift idea would be to present her with a hand blown glass teapot for her kitchen. Perhaps an oil and vinegar set from Europe would be appropriate. A gourmet gift accentuates your appreciation of her cooking and taste, and adds flavor to a time of reflection, such as tea time. Today you will find all of these Mother’s Day gift ideas online. The perfect Mother’s Day gift is easily found in numerous gift shops and boutiques, but remember SHOWING your mother that you do indeed love her, means more than any item you could send her. Mother’s Day is always the second Sunday in May, halfway to Christmas, yet “a gift to give” well worth remembering.

Use discover monogram card and enjoy

Discover Monogram Card makes your life very convenient. You can choose a customized Discover® Student Monogram Card and enjoy a 0% APR as introductory offer on Purchases for six months. You need not pay any annual charge. You can be absolutely at ease regarding fraud management. The company is well equipped to protect you from any kind of fraud. The online account management options are also very easy. You are offered 5% Cash back Bonus in travel, home, restaurants, gas, movies and others. You can expect a 5% to 20% Cash back Bonus from top retailers. You have the privilege of redeeming the reward points from numerous partners. There is variety of gift choices and you will have a gala time choosing your gifts.

Discover Monogram Card offers you cash rewards on all purchases. You can get 5% cash back bonus on purchases, all round the year, by contributing in the Get More programs. Additionally, you can earn 1% on all other purchases, once your annual purchases exceed the amount $3,000. You can earn 0.25% on your first $1,500 spent on other purchases and 0.50% on your second lot of $1,500. If you buy from selected clubs or discount stores, you are offered 25%. There is no expiration date that is linked to rewards. But, if you keep your card inactive for around thirty-six months, then some of the reward points might be forfeited.

Discover Monogram Card is very easy to apply. You would need to simply call up the company. Your call will be attended by an efficient customer care personnel, who will guide you properly. The company values your time and thus, will not make you run from pillar to post looking for a credit card. They will guide you on all the formalities that need to be fulfilled and will try to deliver your card as soon as possible. You can use the card for anything you wish to. You will not only enjoy the benefit of using the Discover Monogram Card, but will also be rewarded for using it.

But, just because you are the proud owner of a Discover Monogram Card, it does not mean that you go over the top spending on it. Try and maintain a budget. Use it only when you really need to use it. This way, you will be well within the budget. This will also help you maintain a clean credit history. You might also be tempted to use more than one credit card at once. Avoid the temptation. What happens is that the moment you see payments piling up on all your cards, you will have the urge to skip some of them, which will affect your credit history negatively. Even if you are using one card, see to it that the outstanding amount does not go over the top. If it happens, then it you will again fall into a vicious circle of not paying and as a result, ending up with more outstanding. This can lead to bankruptcy. With a little amount of discipline, you can really enjoy the benefits of your Discover Monogram Card.

Are uk secured loans a part of your financial portfolio

Over time, you’ll assemble a portfolio that provides you with income opportunities (such as investments), insurance for peace-of-mind, estate and tax planning contingencies, and retirement income strategies. As part of your financial portfolio, a UK Secured loan may be the best option for you. Many people are deciding to acquire a UK Secured loan to add to their financial portfolio.

Why do people add UK Secured loans to their financial portfolio? There are several reasons why you might do so. One reason is to get control of debts that have gotten out of hand. If your spending has increased beyond your income, you may be racking up debts faster than you can pay them off. Getting a UK Secured loan is way to consolidate your debts into one monthly amount that you can handle.

Another reason that people are turning to UK Secured loans is for leverage. Perhaps they are looking to put an addition on their house but do not have the cash to readily do it. A loan can fill the gap and provide the funds necessary to put the addition on the house. That’s leverage for two reasons: your home will suddenly become so much more useful to you, but also, when it comes time to sell, you will have increased the value of your home and enhanced how sellable it is to potential buyers.

A third reason that people are turning to UK Secured loans is to get the nice things they deserve. Perhaps there is a car you’ve always wanted, or you’d like to fill your house with nice things. It would be great if your job provided you with the financial means to get them, but for many people, that’s not the case. Instead, you may have to turn to loans in order to get the items you want. It’s still an investment, though. It’s an investment in the enjoyment of your life!

While getting a UK Secured loan is simple, and there are many providers out there can get you a loan, it should not be approached lightly. Just as you probably consider very seriously all of the other factors in your financial portfolio you should also consider your UK Secured loan with equal seriousness. After all, it’s a financial tool just like your investment and insurance strategies. Is a UK Secured loan the right financial strategy for you?

Business did you understand that

There are times in the corporate world where we may get frustrated with our boss. They may even say things we may agree with, but sometimes they won’t even make sense.

The following statements are from memos or emails from some well known national and international businesses. The names of the businesses have been removed to avoid any unintentional embarrassment.

As of tomorrow, employees will only be able to access the building using individual security cards. Pictures will be taken next Wednesday and employees will receive their cards in two weeks.

What I need is a list of specific unknown problems we will encounter.

How long is this Beta guy going to keep testing our stuff?

E-mail is not to be used to pass on information or data. It should be used only for company business.

This project is so important, we can't let things that are more important interfere with it.

Quote from the boss: "Teamwork is a lot of people doing what 'I' say."

My sister passed away and her funeral was scheduled for Monday. When I told my boss, he said she died so that I would have to miss work on the busiest day of the year. He then asked if we could change her burial to Friday. He said, "That would be better for me."

We know that communication is a problem, but the company is not going to discuss it with the employees.

One day my boss asked me to submit a status report to him concerning a project I was working on. I asked him if tomorrow would be soon enough. He said, "If I wanted it tomorrow, I would have waited until tomorrow to ask for it!"

Sometimes the pressure of corporate business makes certain comments comical when viewed from a less stressed vantage point.

One of the ways corporate workers have found to manage the high stress involved in their 9-5 jobs is developing a home-based business they can operate away from a corporate business climate.

Many individuals view the freedom of home business ownership as the perfect remedy for the stress they encountered in the workforce.

More than a freedom from stress, home-based businesses allow individuals to pursue something they really are interested in.

The corporate world demands you conform to the standards of the business. Home-based business allows you to develop your business in a way that best fits your individual personality.

So enjoy the comments and then consider the possibilities.

Tips to secure your online dating safety

Online personals and dating can be a very fun venue towards meeting that special someone. However, one's safety should still be the top priority. Did you know that most online dating services do not pre-screen their users? This means that they cannot ensure that the people you meet through their sites are safe enough to be dealt with. So, this makes you call the shots when it comes to screening them.

Here are a few tips to make online dating less risky and more fun:

1. Anonymity Breeds Safety, For Awhile

Giving your real email address, personal web site URL, last name, phone number, place of work, home address, or any other information that identifies you in your profile or first few emails that you exchange with other members makes you an easy victim. Turn off your signature file, or make sure that it does not have any identifying information, when sending emails to a member through your own email.

2. Photo Perfect Request

To give an idea of the person's look, thus make you a tad safer, request for a picture. A scanned photo won't cost so much, so not much alibi can be given for not doing it.

3. Lean on Common Sense

Trusting your online acquaintances easily can make you easy bait. If your gut feel tells you that someone is lying, there's a big chance that he or she is actually lying. Then, don't go justifying his or her acts. Look for someone that deserves your trust. Online intimacy is very dangerous. Don't indulge yourself on such endeavor at the click of a mouse. Logical thinking will save you a lot of trouble.

4. Call First, Don't Drool Just Yet

A person's skills when it comes to communicating can be easily gauged through a phone call. Though it might cost you some moolah, it still is worth it than risking yourself to falling for an anti-social. However, to make things a lot safer, use a cell phone or a pay phone instead of using your land line. Unless you are absolutely comfortable with the person you are calling, don't give your home phone number at once.

5. Delay the Meeting

It is advisable to take your time and get to know the person as much as possible first before saying yes to a face to face meeting. If he seems to be only spouting or keying saccharine words that you want to hear, the person on the other end might have a questionable honesty. Don't feel like you are obligated to meet anyone, you still have the last say on whether you are ready to meet the person or not. You are free to change your mind if anything feels not right.

6. Psychoanalyze or End up with a Psycho

You should pay attention to any signs of intense frustration, anger or any displays of aggressive behavior. If the person is trying to control or pressure you, stop the communication. Here are the other alarming manifestations of bad behavior that when spotted, should make you stop from communicating with your online friend:

- giving dubious info about appearance, age, interests, profession, marital status, etc.

- refusal to converse with you over the phone when you have already established online intimacy

- consistently not giving any direct answers to direct questions, etc.

- overly agreeing to your every statement

- asking you to provide travel arrangements

7. Offline Meeting

Before meeting your online friend, tell someone reliable where you will go and when you will return. Leaving your date's name and phone number is a good idea. Bring your mobile phone. Don't make your date pick you up at home. Have your own transportation and meet somewhere public. During the date, don't leave your drink unattended. After the date, leave on your own too.

To make online dating work, it is imperative that you exercise caution. Have ample time to get to know the other person, don't rush yourself or allow anyone to rush you into doing anything. It's better to be safe and dateless for a while than sorry.

Benefits of home loan refinancing

When you refinance a home loan you’re acquiring a loan and the money obtained from it has to be destined to pay off the outstanding loan so the new loan will be secured with the same asset as the previous loan.

There are a few reasons why someone would want to do that. You can lower your monthly payments on your home, you can benefit from lower interest rates or you could use extra money to consolidate debt.

Paying less interest:

If you had bad credit when you got your current home loan, you probably are paying a high interest rate and thus you’d benefit from a refinance by reducing the amount of money paid on interests. If you’ve been paying religiously your monthly mortgage installments, then you’ve probably improved your credit over time and you should be in condition of getting a refinance mortgage loan at a reasonable rate.

When is refinance convenient?

You may wonder when is refinance convenient, the truth is there is no general principle on this matter, but most financial assistants consider a 1.5% lower interest rate to be worth refinancing. If you refinance for a higher amount than the current loan you may also get rid of other debt like credit card balances which have a lot higher interest rates.

Finding a lender:

There are many lenders dealing with refinance mortgage loans, so if you are determined to find the best deal for you, you will have to do a careful research. You can start by heading to one of those online sites that offer comparatives between lenders and advice as to which lender best suits your needs. This kind of sites save you the trouble of searching everywhere for lenders and requesting loan quotes from each one.

Seek Help if you must:

Don’t hesitate to seek for professional help if you feel this is a complicated financial transaction for you. There are many financial assistants willing to offer you their advice on how to refinance your loan and they will give you tips to raise your credit score and improve your credit history. There are many online sites offering this kind of advice too.

Getting help for your bipolar disorder and your fears

It is not easy to deal with your bipolar disorder and your fears. The first step anyone should do is to talk to a professional. Getting help from a counselor or other professional is very important and can provide you with much help and insights in dealing with your current problem. In the meantime, here are some techniques a person can use to help manage their fears and bipolar disorder.

A good way to manage your fear is to learn how to manage your negative thoughts by thinking of something positive. For instance, you have a fear that you will not be able to get through the rest of the week. Instead of focusing on this negative thought try to remind yourself that you got through other times in which you dealt with your fears. This is no different. Remind yourself that you can do it again.

Take it one step at a time. You never know when a new opportunity may come that will help us to solve your problems. The answer you may be looking for may be around the next corner. Be positive and always be aware of what each day can bring us.

Sometimes, a certain task may make us nervous. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you are nervous giving a speech in front of a group of people. Before this event takes place, imagine that you are giving the speech in front of some people. Using your imagination can help you prepare for a future event.

Try to learn as much as you can in managing your bipolar disorder and fears. Read books and consult with a counselor as mentioned above. Learn from your mistakes when managing your anxiety. If something doesn’t work the first time around then try again. Never give up in dealing with your fears.

Avoiding your problem will do nothing in the long run. Managing your bipolar disorder and your fears will take some hard work. Be patience, persistent and stay committed in trying to solve your problem.

Get married las vegas style las vegas hotels offer a variety of wedding sites

If you are planning to get married in Las Vegas, the wedding options available to you are as vast and unique as the city itself. You can have a traditional wedding, themed wedding, Elvis wedding, or a drive thru wedding. Then there are the destination weddings. Lake Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon, Mount Charleston, Valley of Fire, and Lake Mead are all popular Las Vegas wedding destinations. While planning your Las Vegas wedding, you will certainly have many packages to choose from. When researching them all, you may want to take a closer look at what Las Vegas Hotels have to offer for wedding packages.

Many people don’t realize that many Las Vegas hotels offer more than just chapel weddings. Many of them offer a variety of other wedding ceremony locations in addition to their wedding chapels. Poolside weddings, for example, are offered by many Las Vegas hotels. If you envisioned an outdoor wedding in a serene setting, a Las Vegas poolside wedding may be something you will want to consider. The Aladdin Hotel, MGM Grand, and Sahara Hotel are just a few of the Las Vegas hotels that offer poolside weddings. The Paris Las Vegas Hotel offers them as well but with a unique twist…their pool is on top their roof.

Las Vegas hotels also provide some really breathtaking wedding sites with amazing views. At the Stratosphere Hotel, you can say I do at the top of the Tower 800 feet above the ground on their outdoor observation deck. At the Bellagio, you can get married on a terrace overlooking their lake and fountain show. And the Paris Las Vegas Hotel offers weddings on their Eiffel Tower observation deck overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.

If you want an outdoor garden wedding, Las Vegas hotels offer plenty of garden wedding venues to choose from. The Flamingo Hotel offers five outdoor garden locations including two which have gazebos and two which feature breathtaking waterfalls. Caesars Palace offers three outdoor wedding sites including one which features a pond and fountains. The Tropicana Resort offers an outdoor gazebo in the midst of a lush tropically landscaped garden area. And the Wynn Las Vegas, one of Las Vegas’ newest hotels, offers a secluded outdoor courtyard with trees and fountains.

If you want something unusual, Las Vegas hotels offer plenty of unique wedding packages as well. The Riviera Hotel offers weddings on the Stratosphere’s roller coaster or at the famous Vegas sign. The Las Vegas Hilton offers Star Trek Weddings on the USS Enterprise at their Star Trek Experience exhibit. And Treasure Island offers a wedding package that includes a ceremony aboard their giant pirate ship.

Do your research when planning your Las Vegas wedding. There are a lot of wonderful wedding packages to choose from in this exciting city so you should have no problem finding one that offers the atmosphere that you envisioned for your special day.

Lake okeechobee a true florida bass fishing paradise

Okeechobee is a Seminole Indian word meaning "great water cannot see other side". True to its name, Lake Okeechobee is 748 square miles in size. It is the greatest provider of drinking water for south Florida, averaging 13-19 feet in depth.

Lake Okeechobee is renowned internationally for its fishing for bass and other species. It is located northeast of Naples, less than 2 hours away, and is heavily ringed with tackle shops, marinas, motels, restaurants, etc. You can find rental boats, gears and lodging to make your bass fishing trip more convenient and comfortable.

Lake Okeechobee also means 'big water' to the Seminole Indians, it is the second largest freshwater lake in the United States after Lake Michigan and its fishing reputation matches its size. Much of the lake's 730 square miles or 450,000 acres are hidden from view by dyke, levee, or trees which screen the shore.

Lake Okeechobee has a 150 mile circumference and its invisible opposite shore is more than 30 miles away. The best fishing and more than half of the action, takes place along the lake's western shore where Calhoun's Guide Service is based.

Lake Okeechobee comprises a 730 square-mile area in Glades, Okeechobee, Martin, Palm Beach, and Hendry Counties its average depth is 9 feet with a maximum depth of 17 feet. Recharge comes from precipitation and southward flow of water from the Kissimmee River. Historically, hydro pattern flowed southward over millions of acres.

Lake Okeechobee offers all types of waterway structures to fish - from open water to narrow canals surrounded by hundreds of different vegetations and grasses.

Lake Okeechobee is located in central southern Florida, north of the Everglades and south of Orlando. Lake Okeechobee links the Atlantic and Gulf sides of Florida via the Port Mayaca Lock on the east side of the lake and the Moore Haven Lock on the lake’s western side.

Drainage canals lower the lake and drain adjacent lands for farming. Agricultural activities around the Lake Okeechobee area include cattle ranching, dairy farming, and crop production of sugarcane, winter vegetables, citrus, sod, sweet corn and rice.

Lake Okeechobee fishing is well-known not only throughout the U. S. but the whole world. Haw hunter guide service has clients who come from all over the world, including Japan and Europe, just to fish Lake Okeechobee with the best of them.

The lake is approximately 37 miles long by 30 miles wide, with an average depth of only 10 feet. To fishermen nationwide, it's renowned for the number of bass it contains per acre and that it also produces more bass over 7 pounds than any lake in Florida and the United States.

Lake Okeechobee, located in Central Florida, is the most famous big bass fishing lake in the country. For many years, Lake Okeechobee has produced the best largemouth bass, blue gill and speck fishing in the world.

Hoover Dike was constructed along the southern regions of Lake Okeechobee to prevent flooding while also yielding year-round crop production. Tory mucks of the region contain 50 per cent or more mineral matter by weight and have considerably more native fertility than saw grass mucks, which were formed under logographic conditions. The 1950s was a period of technological ambition and construction, a system of canals, dikes, and pumping stations were installed to distribute water to the Everglades Agricultural Areas from Lake Okeechobee

Lake Okeechobee provides trips and tours all conducted by highly trained and efficient guides. They know the movement of the fish and their feeding patterns which gives you the best advantage over the fish and landing the lanker of a lifetime. Their cordial manner and willingness to help you enjoy your day on the water is genuine. Whether you want to book a corporate trip, take a youngster fishing for the first time, or have special needs, they there to help.

Fishing at Lake Okeechobee for Bass from late fall to early spring is when Crappie and Bass Fishing at Lake Okeechobee is at its best. Success comes when using large wild shiners or artificial lures of all types. If you want to target a true monster size bass, fishing at Lake Okeechobee is certainly the way to go.

Which stretch mark treatment is the best for you

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When you think about Stretch Marks, what do you think of first? Which aspects of Stretch Marks are important, which are essential, and which ones can you take or leave? You be the judge.

Some people think there's nothing that can be done about stretch marks. Once you've got 'em they're here to stay. That turns out not to be true.

First off, many stretch marks just fade over time, making them much less noticeable, and some people can live with them this way. You can also cover them up with makeup made especially for that purpose. For those who want to do better than just covering them up, laser therapy is a promising option. The color of the stretch marks that need treatment will determine the type of laser a surgeon uses. One type stimulates production of cells that make pigment, another reduces the color of stretch marks.

Another type of laser treatment actually stimulates collagen production to restore elasticity in the stretch marks themselves. It is the skin's being stretched past its limit that causes stretch marks in the first place. This can happen when a person grows rapidly such as during puberty. It can also happen when a person gains weight rapidly such as during a pregnancy. The damage is actually done in the skin's middle layer, the dermis. (The skin has three layers: the other two are the outer layer, called the epidermis, and the innermost layer, called the subcutaneous layer.)

Another treatment for stretch marks is blue light therapy, something that can be helpful in treating acne too. It is a combination of gel and light, used to remove stretch marks.

See how much you can learn about Stretch Marks Treatments when you take a little time to read a well-researched article? Don't miss out on the rest of this great information.

An older, low-tech treatment is to use creams to help moisturize skin, repair collagen and elastin growth. They commonly contain combinations of cocoa butter, wheat germ oil, lanolin and vitamin E. But actually, these creams are most effective if used while your skin is being stretched to help keep it soft, supple, smooth and elastic. So prevention is a good idea for those most susceptible to them. If you haven't applied creams while the skin was being stretched, the sooner you begin afterwards, the better.

Who has to worry most about stretch marks? People who are genetically disposed to them, that's who. And it turns out people with darker skin tend to be less susceptible than those with lighter skin.

There isn't one fail-safe, 100 percent way to prevent or treat stretch marks, but a combination of some of these therapies will dramatically reduce their appearance or eliminate them. One thing to keep in mind about stretch marks is that they pose absolutely no health risk. They're more of an imperfection than a threat.

More on Stretch Mark Treatment

Ready to trade-in your home perhaps you should remodel instead

Moving:

A good local real estate agent should be able to assist you with estimates on these numbers.

•How much will it cost to purchase a home that will meet your needs?

•How much could you sell your existing home for? Don't forget to subtract the agent's commission from this total.

•What will it cost to move? According to real estate consultant and best-selling author of Remodel or Move, Dan Fritschen, a typical move costs 10% of the value of your home.

•How much will your property taxes increase as a result of the move?

Remodeling:

•What projects do you want to have done and how much will they cost? An architect or general contractor will be able to assist you with these figures.

•How much will the improvements add to the value of your home, also known as the "payback"? A local real estate agent can assist with this as well.

If the decision about whether to renovate or move were purely a financial one, then it would be quite easy to look at the numbers and come to the right conclusion. However, there are also emotional factors that come into play, and they have a value as well. Let's consider some examples.

Reasons you may want to move:

•If you relocate to a new neighborhood, your children could attend superior schools.

•You would like to reduce your commute or have better access to local amenities, such as restaurants and shopping.

•You're not particularly fond of your current neighborhood.

•Your yard is too small, and you cannot expand it.

Reasons you may want to stay and remodel:

•You're happy with your location. It's convenient, you love your neighbors, and the schools are either excellent or are not a factor.

•You love the layout of your home.

•All you need is a little more space, and your home will be perfect.

Of course only you know what is truly important for your happiness, so try to use these questions as a starting point. Create a list of the pros and cons of each scenario and leave it someplace accessible, so that you and your spouse can add to it as you think of additional factors. You may also want to consider attending open houses and visiting new housing developments to see what is available and how your home compares.

Once you've completed your list and your financial assessment, it's time to draw some conclusions. Are the numbers and the emotional factors pointing you in a clear direction? If you're still feeling unsure and would like some additional assistance, you may want to read Dan Fritschen's book, Remodel or Move, or visit his website. Both contain a calculator that will assist you with the difficult task of quantifying the ramifications of your decision. In addition, you can learn tips to assist you with the next step, after you've determined what it will be.

If you choose to remodel, then you'll need to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish before finalizing any details with the contractor or architect. One of the most expensive things you can do is change the project midstream.

If you decide to move, then there are low-cost improvements you can make to your existing home that will help it to sell more quickly. The kitchen and the bathrooms provide the biggest return on investment in this area.

Whether you decide to remodel or buy a new home, it's important to ensure that you have proper financing in place prior to moving forward. If you decide to purchase a home, a mortgage originator will help you to determine how much you can afford, as well as which loan package works best with your overall financial plan. In the case of remodeling, you should meet with a mortgage professional before any construction takes place. Otherwise you may severely limit the type of financing options available to you.

Understanding cricket

Cricket, although international and popular all over the world, is quintessentially a very English game. It is played between two teams, each consisting of eleven players. At any time on the field are two from one side (the batting side) and eleven from the opposing side (who would be bowling/fielding).

The first team that have all eleven players on the pitch are the fielding team and the team that have just two players on the field are the batting team. Cricket is usually played on a large oval pitch on which the fielders are distributed around the pitch according to the instructions of their captain and bowler. In cricket there are specific fielding positions on the pitch, all with their own unique name.

In, or around, the middle of the pitch, there is an area called "the wicket". This is a thin strip of grass that is 22 yards long, 8 foot 8 inches wide and very flat. It has a set of three stumps also know as wickets, at each end. The three "stumps" are about a yard high and they are set in to the ground a few inches apart. They are connected by two wooden "bails" that are balanced on indentations on top of the stumps. The aim for the bowler is to knock the bails off of the top of the stumps by "bowling" the ball at them. And the object for the batsman is to defend the wicket from the ball. "Bowling" is a way of throwing the ball that is unique to cricket, where the arm must remain straight as the ball is delivered.

The bowler has to "bowl the ball overarm while keeping his arm straight all of the time. If he bends his arm and is, in effect, throwing the ball, it is not allowed and called a 'no ball'. The bowler bowls the ball six times each "over", then another bowler bowls six balls from the other end of the wicket. The bowlers can be changed for other members of the fielding team, as usually each team will have at least four people who would be classed as bowlers.

The object for the batsman is to hit the ball away from his wicket, far enough from the fielders so that he has enough time to run between the two sets of stumps and so score a "run". He can also score a run without hitting the ball as long as he can run before the fielders knock the bails off of the stumps; this is called a 'bye'.

The other batsman stands at the other end of the wicket and has to run at the same time as the batsman facing the ball. The batsman has to reach the other end of the wicket to the crease before the fielders knock the bails off of the stumps. The batting crease is an area that is 122cms in front of the stumps. When the batsman is in this he cannot be out by the fielding team knocking the bales off of the stumps.

When the bowler is bowling the batsman has to defend the stumps from the ball being bowled with his bat whether or not he is standing in front of the crease. But if he stops the ball from hitting the stumps by using his legs then he can be out by LBW, or "leg before wicket".

He can also be out by one of the fielders catching a ball that he has hit before it has bounced on the ground. When the batsman are running between the stumps, if either of the batsmen are not in the crease when the fielder hits the stumps and knocks the bails off with the ball, then they are "run out".

Each time the two batsmen run successfully between the two sets of stumps, they get one run. If the batsman manages to hit the ball over the rope that marks the boundary when it has bounced or rolled on the ground, he gets four runs. If he hits the ball over the boundary without it bouncing on the ground, then he gets six runs. Each "innings" lasts until 10 out of the 11 batsmen are out (two batsman must always be on the wicket, so one batsman can not bat on his own). This is because the batting team need two players on the pitch at a time so that one can be at each end.

The team that wins is the team that has the highest number of runs after everybody has batted or the number of overs being played runs out. If the two teams have he same score then the match is a draw, unless one team has fewer players out than the other. Most club games are played over one "innings". This means that each team bats and fields once. But some games are played over two innings where each team bats and fields twice. Games are very often played over a certain number of "overs" that are agreed beforehand by the captains or according to league regulations and can be altered according to the weather, if play is interrupted. In club cricket both teams usually play in cricket whites.

Adsense is vital for content sites

The first reason why Adsense is vital for content sites is because it has come a long way in understanding the needs of publishers and webmasters. Together with its non-stop development is the appearance of more highly developed system that allows full ad customization.

The second reason is the capability of the Adsense publishers to track not only how their sites are progressing but also the income based on the webmaster-defined channels. The new improvements in the search engines gives webmasters the ability to monitor how their ads are performing using customizable reports that has the ability to detail page impressions, clicks and click-through rates. With real-time reporting at hand.

The final reason is that the advertisers have realized the benefits related to having their ads served on targeted websites. As a result, increasing the possibility that a web surfer will have an interest in their product and services.

There was a time when people were not yet aware of the money to be achieved from advertisements. The cash generated only came into existence when the webmasters and publishers realized how they can make Adsense be that producer. In those days, the content was the most important factor that was taken quite seriously. It still is. With the attraction of money.

Joining a school band

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From selecting the right instrument to learning to read music, being in band can enhance a student's education. Even children with no musical background can join their school's band. How is this possible? It's because all the basic aspects of playing a musical instrument and reading musical notation are taught at school. No one can predict whether a child will have musical ability, but even those whose parents are not musical have a chance of success. The most important factors in whether a child will do well are regular practicing and desire.

Finding an instrument

Selecting the right instrument is an important part of joining a band class. Band directors will consider the student's preferences, musical aptitude and physical characteristics before recommending the most appropriate band instruments for each student. The flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion are good choices for beginners.

Band instruments can be purchased from local musical instrument dealers or online. Prices vary widely depending on the level of quality. Beginners should select lower priced, entry level instruments. Upgrading to better quality instruments should the students have a gift for music can always be done later. Those with a strong interest in improving their skills can take private music lessons to supplement the school instruction.

Band can be time consuming

Students who also wish to participate in sports may experience schedule conflicts if they sign up for band. Both sports and band are time consuming activities. Before a student registers for band, his or her parents need to consider the child's other needs and activities, including studying and time for fun. Like other music courses, band is an elective. In addition to the time spent in class, students will also be expected to attend rehearsals and performances outside of school hours.

Sheet music is the road map

Learning to read music is an important part of the band experience. The songs to be played are written in musical notation on paper which is called sheet music. The way the information is put on the page determines what notes will be played, for how long and how loudly.

The composer records his intentions on the sheet music and the conductor leads the musicians in the proper interpretation of those intentions. Not every conductor sees the music the same way. Recordings of the same music by different conductors will have subtle variations in the way the music is played even though the sheet music used was the same.

While musicians may have their own ideas about how to play the music, when they are in a band, they are expected to follow the directions of the conductor. If all the musicians went their own ways, the audience would hear a mishmash of sound instead of music.

What do you do if you get kidnapped

Although it is recognized that hard-and-fast rules cannot be applied in incidents of kidnapping, the following points are worthy of special consideration:

Under all circumstances attempt to stay calm and be alert to situations that you can exploit to your advantage. Remember that the primary objective of your family and law enforcement officials will be to secure your safe return as quickly as possible.

Do not attempt to fight back or to struggle physically. No matter how reasonable your captors may appear on the surface, they cannot be trusted to behave normally and their actions may be unpredictable.

Comply with the instructions of your abductors as well as you can.

Do not discuss what action may be taken by your family, friends, or company.

Make a mental note of all movements, including time in transit, direction, distances, speeds, landmarks along the way, special odors, and distinctive sounds like bells, construction, voices, etc.

Whenever possible, take mental note of the characteristics of your abductors, their habits, surroundings, speech, mannerisms, and what contacts they make.

Generally, you cannot expect to have a good opportunity to escape. No attempt to escape should be made unless it has been carefully calculated to ensure the best possible odds for success.

Avoid making provocative remarks to your abductors. As noted, they may be unstable individuals who react irrationally.

If you have a disease or physical condition that requires treatment request special medicines or medical attention immediately.

Try to establish some kind of rapport with your captors.

Maintain your cool, use your head and you will get out of this terrible situation. The odds are very long that this will ever happen to you, but you want to be prepared in the event that it does.

Number of charter schools increasing over traditional tampa schools

In 1996, then governor Jeb Bush co-founded the first charter school within the state of Florida, when most educators across the nation thought of charter schools as nothing more than a fad. Now, there are more than 350 charter schools within the state of Florida; there are 38 across the Tampa Bay area with several in the Tampa Schools area — private and public. The movement has mushroomed across Florida with charter school enrollment expected to top 100,000 students this year.

Yet, if you ask the average adult on the street, most have no idea what a charter school is. Though many charter schools are private businesses that operate under the guidelines of the state school board, many were traditional schools converted to public charter schools and still under the direction and control of the school districts, such as the Tampa schools.

Charter schools are given more flexibility from many of the regulations that apply to the traditional Tampa schools in exchange for greater accountability. Charter schools can be as different as day and night in their mission, vision for their students, approaches to curriculum and teaching methods, and administrative structures, as well as their overall philosophy.

Each charter within the Tampa schools area must prove that their students are continuously improving academically from year to year. If they fail (indicated by student test scores on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT)), they are closed.

Any individual or business that wishes to create a charter school can. Successful new approaches to education by some charter schools are copied by others. The primary philosophy of these schools, however, is that one curriculum and one way of doing things is not correct for every student.

The success of the charter schools within the Tampa schools’ area has forced the Tampa schools’ leadership and educators to re-evaluate their traditional schools, giving students and parents more educational choices from which to choose.

Clearly no longer just a fad, the Tampa schools lose many students (and the funding that goes with each student) to charter schools each year, and the numbers are on the increase. The Tampa schools now have 12 public charter schools converted from their traditional schools. Ten are lower grade levels and two are secondary. A few have middle school grades included.

Charter schools within the Tampa schools’ area, as well as across the nation, continue to produce mixed results. Since their inception in Florida, 78 have closed, and nearly 30 percent were in the red financially a few years ago. Charters traditionally average 11 percent less funding per student, and their students generally score slightly lower on the FCAT, though they are improving.

Most charters within the Tampa schools’ area have a greater proportion of minority students than the traditional schools. Many are located within the inner city communities, where all schools face their biggest challenges.

Homeowners insurance lessons from katrina and other gulf storms

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Homeowners Insurance is supposed to protect us in case of disasters. That is what we have come to expect from our homeowners insurance over the years. But what if the disaster is the costliest in U. S. History? What if your insurance agent’s home and office were destroyed in the disaster also?

That is what happened to many customers and homeowners insurance agents and companies after Katrina hit the Gulf coast. Many agents' homes, offices and insurance Companies' claims centers were in the same situation as their clients due to the storms. So what did they do? They set up “office” in tents and mobile trailers. Then Hurricane Rita blew away these temporary offices and the agents and companies set them up again. These temporary shelters acted as a communications center for all people in the surrounding areas. Local people would come by to ask questions, meet with their claims adjustors and just catch up on the news with their neighbors. Extreme circumstances dictated unconventional responses: some agents even filed claims for their clients without even talking to the clients just so they could get the claim “in the queue.” Allstate allowed customers to submit claims through any agent in the country and set up a priority line to assist. They sent email to agents in the areas surrounding the disaster areas to act as messengers by “word of mouth” to their fellow agents in the effected areas. The larger companies such as State Farm & Allstate that service claims for the national flood Insurance Program even used satellite imagery to determine damage in some neighborhoods that were entirely flooded.

Lessons Learned: Those of us not effected by these disasters can learn a few lessons about coping with future disasters from the thousands of policyholders that are still waiting to get their claims paid. As soon as possible, take steps to prevent further damage to your home if possible: such as covering the roof with a tarp if possible. You can hire a contractor if you can find one, as that would be safer for most of us than climbing on our roofs. Hold off making any repairs until you see or talk to an adjuster first. Plus, keep your receipts, as you’ll need them to prove expenses that can be re-imbursed later.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

You can generally expect your homeowners insurance to help pay for additional living expenses for up to 12-24 months while your home is being repaired. But, homeowners insurance usually pays only after they verify you have a legitimate claim. After Katrina, many insurers made an exception, automatically distributing enough to cover two weeks’ worth of additional living expense to anyone in an area subject to mandatory evacuation. Some companies even gave small advances on contents under the personal property part of their homeowners insurance policies.

If you have to wait to get your check, it helps to have cash that is easily accessible in a bank account or money market fund. Stashing cash at home isn’t a great idea because if your home burns down and you weren’t able to get to your cash, most homeowners insurance policies only cover $100-$200 in cash whether it is stolen or burned up in a fire. Your goal should be to have an emergency fund available to take care of your family for 2-4 weeks (minimum)if possible. In a disaster it might be hard to even find a local bank to get cash. Debit/credit cards with a statewide or national bank would perhaps be better.

Your biggest problem in getting your claim handled may be in either not having the proper homeowners insurance coverage or not having enough coverage. Most good homeowners insurance policies today cover up to 120% of your dwelling coverage limit. It is important that you review the dwelling limit with your agent every couple of year’s at a minimum. Homeowners insurance policies do not cover Flooding, but you should again see your agent for this coverage.

If your homeowners insurance falls short, you may qualify for money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or a disaster-assistance loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA). Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 for rebuilding and $40,000 to replace personal property at very low interest rates for up to 30 years.

You may reprint this article on your site or in your newsletter with proper credit to the author and a simple link to hometownquotes. com

Coffee machines for different uses

If you have decided that you enjoy coffee enough to start calling yourself a coffee gourmet, good for you. This is a fascinating world where the standards are very high, and if you really enjoy a good cup of coffee, this is where you belong. Gourmet coffee is made from the beans that are the top beans from the best producers and rushed to the consumer for the freshest taste possible. If you start to engage in buying gourmet coffee, you will be shopping from different dealers, obtaining coffee from different parts of the world. Just like in the world of wine, the flavor change from region to region. Coffee beans from Africa, for example, have more of a red wine flavor than beans from Central American, which tend to have a smooth acidity to them. Once the best beans for your taste are culled from the best areas of the world, the process of roasting will add even more flavor and aroma to these different coffee types.

Picking, roasting and grinding the coffee brings it to one of the most important final steps: brewing the coffee. Here the machine you use will be very important. Whether you are using a Bunn commercial maker, or a small Mr. Coffee, you want to pick the right one for your needs. Drip machines are still in use, and even though they may be the choice of a novice because they are so easy to use, many expert coffee brewers still prefer them. A real gourmet may insist on a press or hand brew machine so make sure he is controlling the brewing process. Then, of course the modern world steps in with pod brewers that work like a European coffee machine, where water is infused through a pad of premeasured coffee. And of course, if you love espresso, you will want to have an espresso machine.

One of the other important points to remember, whatever type of machine you use, is that you use the right filter for that machine. Most of the best filters are made of a permanent filter material such as nylon or metal. A permanent filter will allow all of the flavor of the coffee grind to go through, rather than be soaked up by paper.

A good gourmet coffee store will also supply you with a coffee grinder for really fresh coffee. If you want the true experience of coffee house coffee every time you brew a pot, there is nothing like grinding your own fresh blend from beans.

Whether you have decided that you just want to have the best cup of coffee each morning, or you want to impress guests and visitors with a great cup of gourmet coffee, you can get everything you need to do it right: grinders, roasters, and coffee machines. Get the best of these products and you will be a coffee gourmet.

Enjoying nature in denia

Denia is located just north of Javea. It is on the northern part of the Costa Blanca coast line, which runs from this city to Torrevieja in the southern part of the region. The weather in the area is similar to most of the Costa Blanca. The summers are hot and the winters are mild. There is little rain in the area. The city enjoys about 320 days of sunshine each year.

The city is located between two airports. Visitors can fly into either Alicante or Valencia airport. Each airport is about an hour and fifteen minute drive to the city. The best way to get around after arriving at the airport is with a car hire. This gives you the freedom to travel around the area. Car hire companies are available at both airports. Reserve your vehicle in advance, especially if you are travelling in the summer tourist season.

Things to do in Denia

Denia is a working town. While visiting here, you will be able to experience the authentic feeling of a Spanish town that you won’t get in the larger, more crowded tourist areas. If you want to spend some time enjoying the attractions in the larger cities, you can get around easily with a car hire.

Another benefit is the town doesn’t close down after the summer season. Many of the larger, tourist areas become like ghost towns at the end of the season. Stores, bars and restaurants close down. Here, you can enjoy shopping and restaurants all year long. This makes the city a good choice for off season vacations.

There is a lot to do for tourists as well in this city. There are two golf courses, Oliva Nova and La Sella for golf lovers. The weather in the area is nice enough for golf almost every day of the year. If you want a golf vacation, consider staying at the resort or close to it.

There are a few spas in the Denia area. A spa vacation is a great way to relax. You will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Spas are located near the mountain and near to the beach areas.

Although the night life in this city isn’t as busy as the larger discos in Benidorm, there is some night life. There are bars, restaurants and entertainment available. Many places are located near the beach. The night life isn’t as wild as in larger tourist areas, but at least you won’t have to fight the crowds and will still be able to enjoy music and dancing.

The castle in Denia was built in the sixteenth century. The castle is a landmark in the area. Tours are available throughout the year. From inside the castle, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Enjoying Nature in Denia

The towns of Denia and Javea are separated by Montgo mountain. This mountain has many walking routes. You can explore them on your own or go with a group on a walking tour. This is a great place to experience nature while on vacation. There are many great views of the water and town from this mountain.

Denia has 20 kilometres of beaches on the coastline. The beaches here are sandy and clean. They have received the Blue Flag award for good water quality and sand quality. You will enjoy relaxing on the beach and soaking in the sun.

A variety of water sports, including diving, snorkelling and wind surfing are available as well. There are some great areas for diving and snorkelling in the southern beach areas. Once is Les Rotes, a rocky area that is known for great snorkelling and diving. You will be able to view life under the water here.

Car buying adviser

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Must Read before Buying a Car

Purchasing a car can be an exciting experience for anyone. It doesn't matter if the vehicle you are purchasing is a car, truck, SUV, band, or even motorcycle, the thrill of purchasing an automobile gives the buyer a feeling of being free. However, that feeling of being free can fade almost as soon as it comes if you are tied to auto financing that isn't the best option for your situation. Car buyers can save themselves a lot of headache and hassle if they know what they need for they begin the car buying process.

Determine your needs and wants before you begin learning about getting appropriate financing for the car. If you find that you have been looking for more financing in the car that you need requires the news wasted valuable time that you can be spending on looking for your next vehicle. Once you've selected a vehicle that you are comfortable with to some background investigation on the car.

Research consumer report websites, as well as get other user feedback on the vehicle if at all possible. Don't forget research on any factory recalls that may have been implemented on the vehicle. Finally, when you have decided on your vehicle, be sure that you are comfortable behind the wheel of the car and driving. A car is a large investment and you want to make sure that you will be comfortable in the years ahead while driving it.

It doesn't matter if you are purchasing a new car, truck, SUV, van or motorcycle the act of getting a new vehicle is an exciting experience. A new vehicle can mean freedom to the owner as long as the vehicle that they did meets their needs and wants.

Before you go to purchase your next vehicle, be sure to get a few preliminary things out of the way first. That can help you avoid hassles and headaches down the road. One of the first things car buyers should do is to make sure that the car that they shop for is one that will meet their needs for the next several years. This includes making sure that they are comfortable in the vehicle and can properly handle the controls.

Never rush to test drive process as it is very imperative that you fully acclimate yourself to your new car and make sure it is one that you will be comfortable driving for the next few years. Next, research your new car as much as possible, online and by asking owners that have the car if they have any problems and how much they like having the car.

Finally, make sure all of your financing is in order before you go searching for new car. You don't want to form an emotional attachment to a vehicle, only to find out that you will not be able to afford it later.

Be sure that your financing options are in order before selecting the car of your dreams. You don't want to form an emotional bond to a vehicle and then find out that you will not be able to afford it. A vehicle purchase can be an exciting endeavor for anyone. However, make your next vehicle purchasing experience exciting as well is responsible by utilizing the tips above.

Hello from nova scotia learning about native heritage at the bear river

About an hour after my departure from Annapolis Royal after a beautiful drive along the shoreline of the Annapolis Basin and through the early fall colours of the Bear River Valley, (also known as “Little Switzerland”. I arrived at the Bear River First Nation Heritage and Cultural Centre. I was greeted by Wanda Joudry-Finigan and Robert (Robbie) McEwan, while Frederick Harlow was manning the cash register. All are members of the Bear River First Nation, and Wanda and Robbie proceeded to celebrate my arrival with a special welcome song.

Wanda explained that the song invites our mutual relatives, grandfathers and ancestors to join us at this occasion. The lobby of the Centre holds various artifacts and a Heritage Gallery that pays homage to current and former Chiefs and Elders of the Bear River First Nation. Wanda pointed out present Chief Frank Meuse Junior who also operates a lodge for adults and youth alike who wish to learn about the Mi’kmaq culture. Another image was of Agnes Potter, a celebrated leader and respected Elder of the Bear River First Nation.

Then I was invited to view a brief movie about Willie Meuse, Frank’s grandfather, shown in footage from the 1930s on the Bear River. The film also highlighted the construction and launching of the first birch bark canoe built since 1927. The launching took place in 2004 and speaks to the importance of the ancestors.

We left the vestibule and entered a large multi-purpose room housing a variety of interpretive displays about the life and history of the Mi’kmaq First Nation. This room is also used for theatre productions, games of sports for the youth, community card parties, holiday feasts and presentations. Frederick joined me and gave me an overview of the birch bark canoe. He explained that the canoe weighs about 90 to 95 pounds and was constructed using authentic historical canoe-building methods used in the area. The canoe is a sea-going canoe, evidenced by the high rise in the middle. Fresh-water canoes do not feature a rise in the middle of the canoe.

The vessel is constructed of various types of wood including ash and birch and the outside is covered with birch bark. Any potential openings in the canoe’s skin are patched up with a mixture of spruce gum and bear grease. Canoes used to be the main form of transportation for the First Nations People and their navigation skills, fishing and hunting knowledge helped the French settlers when they first came to this area in the 1600s. This life-size canoe was made by Todd Labrador and Cory Ryan who is a seventh generation descendent of Malti Pictou, a well-known Bear River Mi’kmaq guide. Before Cory, he was the last person to make a birch bark canoe in the area.

The next exhibit featured a variety of arts and crafts that are produced here using Mi’kmaq artistic traditions. Robbie came over to give me more insight into some of the local arts and crafts. He explained that leather is worked to produce mittens, jackets, dresses, moccasins and other items. Dreamcatchers are an important symbol to the Mi’kmaq. With their intricate web-like design they are hung to catch dreams floating through the night air. There is a saying that dreamcatchers let the good dreams through but protect you from the bad dreams.

Jewellery is made using a variety of glass beads, bone beads as well as imitation sinew. In the past moose tendons were used to produce the pendants and bracelets. Decorated deer and moose hide are available for purchase as well. Robert indicated that he recently made an ornate dress for a native chief in Newfoundland. His artistic skills are evidenced by some of the most impressive pieces of work: Robert showed me a decorative jewellery box that he is currently working on. The box is made of birch bark and porcupine quills, bordered with sweet grass whose scent I was able to smell. He explained that porcupine quills are easily removed from the animal, and they are essentially used to stitch an elaborate design. For each quill a hole is poked and the quill is pulled through. By the time this item is finished, Robert will have invested over 200 hours to produce the elaborate pattern on this decorative box.

Wanda joined us and took me to a display of a wigwam to explain certain rituals and conventions that would be adhered to in First Nations encampments. Visitors would be invited to sit in the most honourable space in the home or wigwam. The same would go for children so they would be able to see everything to the left and to the right of them in order to be able to learn. During winter mats made from rush would be used for insulation against the cold. Baskets were hand - made in order to harvest scallop, clams, or mussels. Each of these particular baskets could hold up to 10 pounds of seafood. Other baskets made from ash were used for potato and apple picking. These baskets were hand-made in large quantities in the 1900s as a major means of economic survival in changing times. Today these baskets are sold as decorative items.

The tipi also features a variety of furs, including lynx, rabbit, mink, red fox and silver fox. During the 1920s and 1930s silver foxes were a real fashion craze in England and many women had a fox fur, complete with head and legs, draped around their necks as a statement of elegance. The fox’ head would be equipped with a clasp so it could be clipped onto the lapel of the lady’s coat.

I learned that the wigwam is made of birch bark. Wigwams were lightweight, which made them easy to move from one location to another and water-resistant. Encampments would be set up near the mouth of rivers, which would provide a plentiful opportunity for food and means of travel. A large part of native diet consisted of fish; the rest was made up of berries, fruits and meats. Often fishing weirs were used for catching eels. Wanda explained that in the last few years about 800 encampments have been found in Nova Scotia with more than 4000 artifacts dating back 2,500 to 4,000 years.

Mi’kmaq hunting traditions included bear traps that were baited with fish. Once the animal was caught, women would remove the guts, the hide and the sinews and carry it back to the camp to prepare it. Excess meat and fat would be scraped off the skin with scraping tools, stones or shells. Wanda informs me that women were very highly respected in First Nations society, as they were life givers. Meals were cooked in a hollowed-out log that held red-hot stones that had been heated over a fire. Water would be poured over the food and the hot stones to cook the meal. Spices were gathered in the forest, and instead of potatoes a plant called the Jerusalem artichoke would be served with the meat. Fish and meat were dried or smoked, and eggs were gathered from marsh birds.

We moved over to a display on Mi’kmaq language and Wanda mentioned that there were 7 Mi’kmaq districts, each with their own chief. The Bear River Reservation is located in a place called “Kespukwik”, meaning “where the water stops flowing”, referring to the Bear River flowing into the Annapolis Basin. Mi’kmaq language is based on action verbs, and pronouns are important indicators of belonging and possession. For instance, the words “mother” or “sister” can never be said by themselves, they always require a pronoun to indicate whose mother we are talking about. The Mi’kmaq words would say “your mother”, “my mother”, or” his/her mother” etc.

At the next display we saw a 1936 picture of Wanda’s great-grandmother, Sarah Fossey who lived until 1961 to the ripe old age of 101. Wanda has fond memories of Sarah who used to bring her grandchildren and great-grandchildren oranges as a special treat. Sarah was captured in a movie from the 1930s that was displayed at the Bear River First Nation Heritage and Cultural Centre. Wanda was overwhelmed when she first saw moving images of her great-grandmother in the movie.

We also discussed life as a Mi’kmaq today. Wanda explained that Mi’kmaq society was matriarchal until the arrival of the first Europeans. In recent years, from the 1920s to the 1990, the government instituted a policy of residential schools where young native children were taken away from their families and taught the “white man’s ways’. This led to a significant loss in culture and heritage, women’s status eroded as a result and Mi’kmaq family structure suffered. The government wanted to force native children to “integrate” into mainstream society and in the process an ancient way of life was destroyed. Siblings were often not allowed to talk to one another and families were torn apart. Many of the native children suffered from mental, physical and sexual abuse in the residential schools. As a result of these policies, today many elders are learning the Mi’kmaq language from the younger generation.

Today there is a counter-trend where young First Nations people are rediscovering their language, culture and heritage. Of the conditions at the Bear River Reservation Wanda says that it is a managed forest and there is no poverty on the reserve, which holds about 100 people. Wanda herself has lived off the reserve for her entire life and has been self-efficient.

Wanda also explained that having “native status” is an important issue in First Nations communities. Native status confers certain benefits in terms of health care, taxation and schooling. Bill C31, introduced in 1985, improved native women’s status in the sense that they could pass native status on to their first generation children, even if the children were from a mixed native/non-native marriage. Men on the other hand can pass on native status indefinitely through the generations, even if they marry a non-native wife. This often creates economic inequality and friction within the same family where one set of cousins could have native status whereas another cousin would not officially be considered native. Even fairly recent legislation prolongs the European tradition of favouring male bloodlines.

Wanda gave me the names of several books that would provide further education about First Nations life and communities and when I said goodbye, she generously gave me two books to read as a present: “L’sitkuk – The Story of the Bear River Mi’kmaw Community” by Darlene Ricker, and “We Were Not Savages – A Mi’kmaq Perspective on the Collision between European and Native American Civilizations” by Daniel N. Paul, excellent reading material to educate myself further about native culture and history. As a parting gift she gave me a handcrafted medicine pouch that she had made herself, an example of the Mi’kmaq tradition of generosity and peacefulness.

I thanked Wanda and the entire team at the Bear River First Nation Heritage and Cultural Centre for their most interesting introduction to Mi'kmaq heritage and culture and resolved to read these books soon to educate myself. I started driving down the hill and all the people congregated at the local Bear River Band Office waved goodbye to me. It was time for me to continue my drive along the Evangeline Trail to tonight’s final destination: Yarmouth.