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A Home Based Business Means Quick, Easy Money...And Flying Pigs!

2008-03-30T01:12:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah, here come those wonderful flying pigs!

Where does it ever end? I've been involved with Internet-based home businesses for several years and I continue to be exposed to a seemingly endless barrage of offers (all costing me money, of course) claiming to be "the secret" for making a fantastic income, in a very short time, and with very little effort involved.

I must admit that I may have a slightly self-serving reason for addressing this topic. My articles are published on my home-based business websites for the purpose of trying to give prospective team members a true sense of what is really involved with starting and developing a successful home based business.

The self-serving part, I suppose, is that I want people joining my team to have the straight scoop going in so that we don't waste each other's time. I admit to being selfish in this regard (I don't want to waste time working with people that have unrealistic expectations), but it is also very efficient for both parties involved, so it is not a totally one-way thing.

Now, back to the topic at hand. There's no magic here, folks.

Once you have selected the home business that you are going to pursue, there are no substitutes for time and effort in developing your business. A dream of being an "overnight success" is just that, a dream.

I can tell you from personal experience, that once you "pay your dues" and begin to have real success with a home based business, it is really terrific. Think about Nirvana or Valhalla, take your pick, but in any event it's really sweet.

When I started developing a home based business, making a good income was obviously an objective, but I also had other sub-objectives. One of the most important things was to have nearly total time flexibility (I mean, if I was willing to continue to wear the 9-5 Mon-Fri collar I could just have just stayed in the previously "traditional" work force).

Time flexibility was (and still is) a "biggie" for me. Many people working at home have the same need for various reasons.

For work at home moms, a home business can be a real godsend to accommodate the hectic time pressures, particularly when the kids are quite young and mom is also spelled "transportation".

In my own particular case, the reason is not quite so noble...I just want (need?) to be able to pick up my fly rod and go fishing at a moments notice (sometimes I'll be gone for a week or two at a time, but now the business has enough momentum that it keeps on operating just as well as if I were here tending to it on a daily basis).

Bear in mind, I am only able do the breakaway thing now that I have put in all the up-front time and effort and now have developed enough kinetic energy in my home-based Internet business to be able to enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and coaches others seeking to start their own home based business.

Fix it and Flip it - How I Lost Money on Real Estate

2008-03-29T16:26:00.000-07:00

I've known a lot of people who have lost money when they sold their homes. In fact, I'm one of those people, and it's happened to me more than once.

There are a number of factors can cause a financial loss when you sell your house, including the need to sell at the wrong time due to divorce or an impending foreclosure, or a downturn in the local real estate market. However, it's also common to lose money simply by making too many expensive changes to the house before putting it on the market. This is how I lost money on real estate, before I wised up.

My most resounding failure in the fix it and flip it market was a house I bought in Spokane, Washington. Knowing what I know now, I would have restricted myself to replacing the carpets and the kitchen and bathroom fixtures, painting inside and out, and buying new appliances. I probably would have replaced the old-style windows, too, to make the place look nicer and appeal to the energy-conscious buyer. These fixes could have been done easily within the two years I needed to live there to avoid capital gains taxes.

Since I didn't know what I know now, I made major renovations, which included moving the bathroom. I did most of the work myself, but the materials alone cost more than I could get back when the house was sold. With the exception of repairs done to the house to make it eligible for an FHA loan and watering the grass, I doubt that any of my major projects really helped me sell the house or increased its value.

If a house is actually sound, with no structural damage or insect problems, the biggest reason it will sell for less than its worth is usually cosmetic. This was certainly true of the house I bought in Spokane. Dirty carpeting, and a wall in the living room covered with mirror tiles, kept most buyers from going any further into the house. I could see past the cosmetic problems and see the home's full potential - but my imagination went a bit too far.

The floor plan was odd, and slightly inconvenient, but leaving the bathroom where it was would have been far more rational, financially. Why didn't I do that? Because my emotions and my nesting instincts took over, pushing aside all thought of future gain or loss.

Let's face it - most people don't buy their own homes with the intention of making a profit, although they certainly hope the house will be a good investment. In fact, the emotional stress caused by the process of buying a house and moving into it can be enough to completely erase any thought of moving again a few years later. However, I know several families who have made a very good living by buying underpriced homes, living in them and fixing them up, and then selling them when the IRS will allow them to do so without paying extra taxes. Clearly, these folks don't make any changes to these houses without carefully considering the bottom line.

After my Spokane adventure, I decided to learn from my mistakes, and find out how to stop losing money on houses. I read books by authors who are experienced in fixing and flipping houses - and then read them again. When I saw that most remodeling projects almost never recoup their costs when the house is sold, I was a little shocked, because I had been guilty of almost every mistake on the list at one time or another. I know many people who have also made the same mistakes, even when they started those remodeling projects with the intention of increasing the value of their homes.

When I bought my next house, I kept that list very firmly in mind. For instance, my kitchen was badly in need of a major overhaul, (or so I believed), and it was far too small. I pored over the latest home decorating magazines, and ideas came flooding into my head. I thought about knocking out some walls, and I even tried to imagine adding on to the house to make the kitchen bigger. New cabinets would be needed, and new appliances...

In the end I painted the kitchen cabinets and replaced the sink with a new one I purchased at Ikea. I covered the chipped orange Formica counters with printed cotton fabric, and coated it with many layers of water-based Verathane that was intended to protect wood floors. The complete "remodel" cost less than $400, as opposed to the thousands of dollars that I would have spent if I followed through on my idle dreams of a "perfect" kitchen. Since the house sold at a very good price within two weeks of listing it, my buyer obviously didn't mind that the kitchen didn't meet my idea of perfect. Because I kept my costs down, I made a handy profit on the sale.

Would I have been able to sell the house for more money if the kitchen had been remodeled and expanded? Perhaps, but not enough to cover the cost of the remodel. Although the National Association of Realtors lists a kitchen remodel as one of the projects that will increase a house the most, they still advise that you should expect to get back only 80% of the costs. If your new kitchen is far fancier, bigger, and more expensive than any other kitchen in the neighborhood, the returns will be even less. A full kitchen remodel can cost thousands of dollars, so the 20% you don't get back can be a big chunk of change.

Does this mean that you shouldn't make changes to your home that would make you happy? Not at all, especially if you intend to live there for many years. But it does pay to sit down with your spouse or partner before you start making your remodeling plans, determine exactly how long you'll be staying in the home, and then think about the full financial implications of the remodeling project. Even if you don't think of yourself as a professional house flipper, it might pay to slow down a bit and find ways to improve the home without spending money you'll never see again. As a bonus, your family might be able to avoid the stress and disruption of all that remodeling mess.

Jonni Good is the author of a new report that shows how she used these fix it and flip it ideas - and how the profit allowed her to buy her next house with cash. Visit - http://www.BuyAHouseWithCash.com

Money Making Opportunities On The Web

2008-03-29T15:45:00.000-07:00

With so many money making programs flooding the internet these days it can become overwhelming. It can become difficult to determine which ones are legitamate and which ones are "scams", "gifting programs", or "pyramid schemes". I would recommend doing extensive research on any one particular program before joining

What you can do and what I look for is, are the owners contact information readily available on their website. This is very important and I would suggest you contact them with any questions you may have. Take note of how fast they respond to your inquiry and if they seem honest about the costs involved engaging in the program. This will provide invaluable piece of mind and confidence for you in the long run.

I have joined programs without contacting the administrator and have been burned in the past. I have found the ones that provide good communication are the ones worth your time and money. The programs with poor response or communication are generally the scam programs so proceed with much caution. I would not recommend joining these.

There are some programs that even offer various "levels" from which to choose. I would recommend these for anyone looking to add some cash to their bank accounts. In addition some of these really are decent business opportunities which will require you to obtain a merchant account to accept all types of payment on your websites.

Many of these programs will offer software from which you can download, use for yourself, and later resell for profit. This is a good business model to get involved with on the internet because most purchases on the internet are digital downloads for various software programs. Most of the software you will receive is worth thousands of dollars that you will have access to at below wholesale cost which will turn big profits for you.

Anyone who is interested in starting their own business online would definitely benefit from doing some research before jumping into whatever looks good. There are unfortunately many programs that just don't work or require tons of cash to benefit from. So do your homework, call the owners, and decide which program is best suited for you.

Robert John Beckwith

How to Prevent and Stop your Dog from Digging up the Lawn

2008-03-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

Dogs can be the very best pets you can have around and also, the most exasperating. I have a lovely Terrier whose eyes can convey empathy, sadness, or delightful joy. How they manage to do that, dont know. It may be due to their extra-sensory ability. In this case, they could be your best friends who mourn with you when you are in pain, and "laugh" with you when you are happy.

But sometimes, they can take their toll on your patience. Imagine just having invested a lot of time, energy, and money on grooming your front yard and backyard lawn only to find your dog digging up everywhere. What can be more annoying?!

When this unlikely but possible event occurs, how do you stop your dog from digging up your precious lawn?

To start with, you need to understand the very nature of dogs. Dogs dig for a reason. You need to understand what the reason is because you might just end up making your dog unhappy by restraining it. Usually, dogs dig because of the perceived scent of something possibly buried in the lawn and they want to check what it is; or they may want to hide and protect their food or toys from intruders or other dogs. This is very common with dogs from an animal shelter.

On the other hand, bringing a dog home the first time, they have a tendency to want to smell everything around them including the lawn and flowerbeds. They also smell for the presence of another dog. Dogs may also want to dig up our lawn for lack of anything to do. They have a tendency to dig when bored.

So, how do you stop your dog from digging up your beautiful and well-tended lawn or yard?

1. Take your dog on a daily walk or run. Exercise has a calming effect on the dog and decreases the occasion of digging.

2. Do a research on their behavior. You never can tell, you might come up with something revealing. Usually, the more info you have on a dog, the easier it is to tame them, get them to respond to you and keep them from digging.

3. No scolding. Dogs tend to register scolding negatively. Avoid scolding it. If it does dig up your lawn, be patient. Train it not to dig up the yard. If it fulfills this command once, compensate it with a bone meal or something to make it realise that if it does not dig up the lawn, it will, be compensated

4. Finally, engaging the dog in an exercise training while maintaining yourself as the leader will enable it listen to you quicker and obey your commands.

Oscar Uzoma Just completed a new interesting series on training your dog. You can get a new interesting 5-part free report on Dog training tips and at His Dog Training Tips and Information Blog and dog training products reviews here at http://dog-training-tips-and-resources.blogspot.com His Dog Training Tips and Information site

Save Money by Refinancing Your Car Loan

2008-03-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

If we define the term refinance in lay man terms, refinancing is nothing but a loan taken on low rate of interest to pay off the previous high interest rate loan or it can be also defined as the replacing or extending the existing tenure of loan with a new tenure of loan. Like wise, if we apply this definition on the refinance car loan, it will be seem as a new car loan taken with low rate of interest to set off the previous car loan taken on high rate of interest.

Refinance car loan is nothing but shifting from the high rate of interest to low rate of interest. Lets explain the situation when the need of refinancing car loan emerges. Imagine the person availed a car loan and after two months he finds that there is downfall in the financial market which has further reduced the rates. But he finds himself paying higher rate of interest as compared to the rate prevailing in the current financial market. In such condition he opts for availing refinance car loan in order to pay low interest as other are paying.

Getting refinancing through refinance car loan enable the person to save large sum of money and thus he can use his saved money in order to satisfy his other personal needs.

Refinance car loan makes the repayments affordable and saves the person from falling in the sea of debts. As paying higher rate of interest increases the burden of debts, which further create difficulty in making repayments.

Refinancing car loan can be taken from the same lender or another lender that is, as per the convenience. The features of the refinance car loan are illustrated below:

Comparatively lower rate of interest
Low monthly instalment
Improves credit score

While availing refinance car loan the borrower must negotiate with the lender and must appeal them to reduce the cost of the loan. And, if the borrower has good credit rating then his good credit score enable him to avail loan on more competitive prices.

The process for applying refinance car loan is simplified through online. Researching and comparing various offers on the internet is much simpler than comparing and researching in the physical market. Today internet shows each aspect of the refinance car loan. Thus, it is absolutely right to say that it saves time, effort and money while applying loan through online.

Xenia Stevens has been associated with AmericasCarLoans. She has completed her Masters in Finance from Cranfield School of Management. She provides useful information on Car loans. For further details in car loans, Refinance car loan, car loan financing, instant car loans, private car loans in US visit http://www.americascarloans.com

Finding and Expressing Your Voice

2008-03-28T20:08:00.000-07:00

Each of us has a unique and significant set of traits, abilities, passions, and skills that we offer to the world. This is our voice. When we are expressing our voice we feel significant, valuable, and joyful. We seek and find a sense of meaning in our work and in our lives when we are operating at this level. When we are expressing our voice we are in alignment with who we are. I have met many people in organizations who are doing this. They love their jobs; they are passionate about what they do; they love making a contribution; they are constantly learning and growing; and they feel fulfilled doing their work. When you have an organization where everyone has found their voice, you have one great choir--harmonious and magnificent. You have people supporting one another to express greatness.

Recently I read The Eighth Habit, by Stephen Covey. The eighth habit is: "Find your voice and inspire others to find theirs." This book is a must read for all of you who see yourselves as leaders. Dr. Covey presents some disturbing statistics that demonstrate that most of us are not in the choir. He presents the following data collected in a survey of 23 thousand U.S. people employed in organizations.

37 % have clear understanding of what their organization is trying to achieve.

20 % are enthusiastic about the organization goals.

20 % see how their tasks match up with the goals.

50 % are happy with what they have accomplished by the end of the week.

15 % feel their organization enables them to accomplish goals.

17% see open communication in their workplace.

10 % believe people are held accountable.

20 % trust the organization they work for.

Dr. Covey puts it into perspective when he imagines if a soccer team had these scores:

Only four of the eleven players would know which goal was theirs.

Only two of the eleven would care.

Only two would know which position they play.

Nine of the players would in some way be competing against their own team.

Covey attributes much of this to the fact that so many people do not find meaning or joy in their work. The answer, he says, is to help each person find their voice. I recommend you read the book. The Eighth Habit, through research and logic, presents a convincing case that the "carrot and stick" method of management is not effective. It is not effective in our workplaces, nor is it effective at home or at school.

Another recent book, Unconditional Parenting, by Alfie Kohn, cites numerous research studies that authoritarian and punitive parenting is ineffective. The results of highly controlling parenting are children who are either overly compliant, or overly defiant. It seems that whether we are dealing with children or adults, the use of rewards and punishments creates more problems than it solves. The problem is that controlling people doesn't really teach them. Controlling others doesn't bring forth their best selves. It doesn't help them find their voice. As a result people are not internally motivated.

As I listen to people in various organizations, and as I read the literature from various fields, this is what I find:

People don't feel respected.

People don't feel valued.

People don't feel listened to.

Many people feel directionless and powerless.

Many people are focused on external factors such as punishments, rewards, grades, approval, disapproval, criticism, profits, and social recognition rather than internal factors such as personal responsibility, compassion for others, the desire to contribute and serve, and finding/expressing one's voice.

The thought occurs, "Somebody should do something." But who is somebody? Who will lead us? I suggest that it is you. Yes, you the reader of this article, are the leader we have been waiting for. Yes, CEO's, presidents, Executive Directors, and managers need to change, but we are all responsible. We are all responsible for looking within ourselves and finding meaning, finding our voice. It's time to eliminate the excuses, to stop blaming management; to stop blaming your parents; to stop blaming the government and ask the big question: "What can I do?" Whatever the situation is, we need to accept that it is what it is, and now we need to figure out what we can do about it. Blaming managers, blaming employees, and blaming circumstances are a waste of valuable energy and serve as excuses for not taking responsibility.

You can find your voice. You can help others to find theirs. You can realize that a paycheck is a result of doing good work, but it is not the reason you were hired or the reason you are in business. You are there to serve. And when you are serving well, you enjoy your work. And when you serve well, most often you tend to be paid well. And if your organization doesn't pay you well in spite of your incredible service, your track record and your positive energy will get you work somewhere else where you are compensated well. Or, you can utilize your tremendous skill and service orientation to create a lucrative sideline business. If your real dream is doing something else somewhere else, stop waiting, start planning, and do it.

We wait for the right CEO or the right president to come in and "turn this place around" and start treating people with respect. The person who can turn this place around is you. Here is how:

Notice how you feel at work. The thoughts you think and the emotions you have are what you are giving to employees, managers, customers, and anyone else you meet. Is what you are thinking and feeling helpful to them? If not, are you willing to imagine and become a more positive you?

Dig deep and find your passion. Don't let anyone talk you out of it.

Be honest, and compassionate with everyone, especially your boss.

Ask your manager, or whoever is above you, how you can help make the organization stronger--how you can help him/her create a more successful organization.

Eliminate "I can't because..." from your vocabulary and focus your energy on creative ways to get it done anyway. This means working smarter--not harder. Ask your employees and coworkers how you can support them -- and listen to them when they reply.

Treat each person you meet, whether they are an adult or a child, as a highly respected being. Do your best to understand their needs and concerns.

Focus your day on helping, on listening, and on being present in the moment.

Make sure that each word you speak, each action you take, contribute to the success of the people you are with and to the overall success of the organization. That means stop the gossip and stop listening to the gossip. Move beyond complaining to creative action. With your speech and your actions you are either building or destroying. Which do you prefer?

Stop whining! It is unbecoming of you.

Help others find their voice. It is the most rewarding thing you will ever do.

Excuses, blaming, and "reasons" are all ways in which you give away your power. Claim your power by being a possibility thinker. Look at any situation and ask: "What possibilities can I find or create?"

Refuse to be a victim. Envision what can be and start taking action toward that vision.

No one you know needs fixing. They just need to learn who they are and find the confidence to be who they are. Help them be successful.

In conclusion, Jim Collins in his book, Good to Great, tells us about the most successful companies and why they are great. His comprehensive research shows that each and every company (there were eleven who had achieved greatness) all had what he calls Level Five leaders. Four of the traits exhibited by Level Five Leaders were:

1. They were humble and did not seek personal glory.

2. They were focused and driven to succeed, not for themselves, but for their company.

3. They refused to accept mediocrity, and took creative action.

4. They found successors who were as good or better than they were. These are leaders who have found their voices and helped many others to find theirs. These are leaders who created organizations that were not codependent on them, but who were empowered to succeed on their own.

You are capable of being such a leader if it is your intention. You are a light. When you bring your greatness forth you give others permission to be great too. It is a matter of choice--your choice.

William Frank Diedrich is a speaker, executive coach, and the author of Beyond Blaming: Unleashing Power and Passion in People and Organizations. William offers keynotes and workshops on leadership and moving beyond blaming. William also offers a free online newsletter, Transformation Times. Learn more about William at http://noblaming.com.

Make Your Wedding Favors for Cheap!

2008-03-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

The question most brides-to-be or couples getting married have is How do I make wedding favors for cheap? Before I begin to answer this question, I want to establish one thing. When using the word cheap, it doesnt mean that youre not giving it all you have. Youve already spent a lot of money to make this day perfect. Therefore, here are some cheap or inexpensive ways to make wedding favors. Save yourself a little money, you could even use it on the honeymoon!!

Here are some really cool ideas to save money and get two things done at once:

Flower Arrangements

Make a small flower arrangement for each table setting. This can serve as both a favor for your guest and decorations for the table. You can normally find little glass containers at Wal-Mart or the Dollar Store for pretty cheap. Add some of your favorite flower(s) or a flower of your favorite color. You can even make it seasonal depending on when your wedding is. Have fun! Be creative!

Candles

I know, everybody suggests candles for wedding favors. But find your favorite shape or scent and give each of your guests a small candle. This will make it personal for your guest. It will tell your guest you wanted them there and make them feel special. Use tulle and/or ribbon to make it more festive!

Small Frames One of my favorites!

You can find small frames and make them place card holders. Each of your guest will have a frame to take home with them. If you dont want to assign seating, put a special message or quote in each frame. Your guest will have a special way of remembering you!

Wine Glass Markers

Make wine glass markers with some wire and beads. Then find a small box and wrap ribbon around it. You need one for each guest. It will also be helpful to keep each others wine glasses separate!

Personalized CD of you and your fiances favorite songs!

You can buy CDs at Office Depot, Staples, Wal-Mart, etc for cheap. Then decide on 10 or so songs to put on there. Burn them to the CD; attach a label or write on each one. You can buy print-on labels wherever you buy the CDs. Then give each guest one! Its a cool personal gift.

You can pull off your big day and save some money. Dont make it look cheap either. Make and create your wedding favors for cheap!! You can do it!! Remember to have fun and be creative!!!

Ashley Beck, President of AffordableWeddingSecrets, looks over all the resources on saving money on your wedding and shares the best with you! I want to give you a free report on How To Save Money on Wedding Favors at http://www.AffordableWeddingSecrets.com.

Ultimate Wealth Package. Make Money on the Internet? ....A Review

2008-03-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Ultimate Wealth Package.Make Money on the Internet? ....A Review

What is Ultimate Wealth Package all about?

If making money online sounds good to you, the Ultimate Wealth Package guides you step-by-step. The Ultimate Wealth Package tells you how and where to start so you wont waste precious time and money.

Does Ultimate Wealth Package work?

The Ultimate Wealth Package is a guide that has been put together by a young man named Mark Warren who has made a fortune on the internet. With his best-selling Unlimited Wealth Package you will learn as you go---how to build cheap websites and start making money online. If you follow the foundation laid out in Ultimate Wealth Package, with a little perseverance and practice you will soon be growing your own home business.

How does Ultimate Wealth Package compare with other programs?

There are numerous money making programs for sale on the internet. The Ultimate Wealth Package covers every form of making money online that I have heard of and then some. Ultimate Wealth Package is written in a very direct fashion with no fluff---just solid instructions that you can follow to make money on the internet.

Do you recommend Ultimate Wealth Package?

There is a learning curve involved with Ultimate Wealth Package. How quickly you will begin making money online is up to you and the amount of time and energy you invest. The Ultimate Wealth Package is very easy to follow and understand. The time invested will pay dividends for life. So, yes, I definitely recommend Ultimate Wealth Package.

To check out Ultimate Wealth Package click here:
http://www.sweetincome4u.com

Robert Henie has spent the past 24 years researching and analyzing home based businesses.

Choosing a Personal Fitness and Nutrition Trainer

2008-03-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

A personal fitness and nutrition trainer can help you enter a race where there's no engraved cup or money award at the finish line. Unlike the Thoroughbreds racing at the local park, you will be running for your very life instead. Fitness and nutrition are the keys to a quality long life.

Racing for Fitness

Almost 60% of people in the United States are overweight or obese. The consequences of having too much fat on your body can be severe. Obesity is a major cause of many serious illnesses including Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and even certain forms of cancer.

It's hard to maintain a fitness routine on your own. On top of that you are bombarded with advertisements selling unhealthy food and gadgets and inventions that actually result in less physical activity. The perfect examples are kids playing electronic games for hours instead of baseball or soccer. There are bigger and better computers and TVs promoting lifestyles with little exercise time included.

Sedentary lifestyles are not good for the body, and neither is junk food. But everyone lives extremely busy lives and fitness and nutrition often take a low priority. A personal fitness and nutrition trainer can help you rearrange your priorities so you place your health top of the list.

When you are young, it's easy to believe good health is forever. But as you age, the truth is slowly revealed. Metabolisms slow naturally. Fat accumulates after years of eating meals with little nutritional value.

Free radicals form unimpeded because the diet has consistently lack antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables. Other diseases eventually take root. For example, lack of exercise increases the chances of developing osteoporosis.

Finding Your Stride

A personal fitness and nutrition trainer can assist you in a number of ways beginning with an assessment of your current fitness level. A personal trainer will work with to establish mutual goals including measures of progress such as weight loss or inches loss.

Personal fitness and nutrition includes the following:

Evaluating current dietary habits and making necessary changes

Calculating the body mass index (BMI)

Establishing an exercise routine that fits your lifestyle

Develop a strength training program

Tracking progress and making necessary adjustments as you progress

Using a personal fitness and nutrition trainer can help you stay motivated as you begin the race for your life. The quality of your life in your senior years is directly related to the level of fitness you maintain in your younger years. It becomes clearer with each medical study that problems associated with aging are as much a consequence of poor nutrition as they are of the aging process itself.

Utilizing the services of a personal fitness and nutrition trainer only makes sense if you're ready to get serious about your health. Racing for the grand prize of good health means finding your "fitness stride".

You don't have to work out 8 hours a day to stay fit and healthy. You do have to exercise regularly and watch what you eat. A personal fitness and nutrition trainer can be the key to your success.

Hut Allred is the President of New Wave Fitness. Inc. located in Dallas, TX. His company provides in home personal fitness coaching throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. His website is http://www.bestdallaspersonaltrainer.com

Table Tennis Training Pushing Yourself Further In The Amazing Game Of Ping Pong

2008-03-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

Ping pong is a fun and exciting game, and best of all, it is fairly easy that practically anyone can play it. However, since table tennis is a breeze to play a lot of people do not see the need to get proper training for it. This is okay if you just want to have some fun hitting the ball once in a while, but if you really want to be good in the game, then you really have to take table tennis training.

A lot of people are hesitant to undergo table tennis training since it is somewhat unusual. Most people do not view it like swimming lessons that a lot of kids really go through. But like any sport, table tennis training follows a flow of discipline. Here are some things you need to consider when you plan to take table tennis lessons:

1. Frequency the frequency of your table tennis training really depends on you on what your goal is, how much you can commit, your urge to improve, your schedule, your budget, among many others. But generally, if you want to improve your game you should have at least one training session each week, and then another session to play as well. Lessons are useless if you do not practice what you learn. But playing too much can also be counter productive. You have to carefully study your schedule and spell out how much you can devote for your table tennis training. Stick with the schedule you have set to ensure that you would be getting the most from your training.

2. Duration of the training how long you train is another consideration. It is usually recommended to train for just an hour to an hour and half like other kinds of sports. If you go longer than that, your concentration can suffer and you might even grow tired of the sport instead of loving it.

3. Training style the type of lesson really depends on your level as a table tennis player. If you are a beginner, you should have a good foundation on the technique for hitting the table with the ball. This sounds to be too basic a task, but it is the very foundation of table tennis and a lot of amateur players miss out on this one. Table training should be mastered really well for other techniques to be learned. This level of training decreases the chances of your hitting the ball into other directions.

Once you are able to ground yourself with table training you can work on the next most important strokes for your training. These include the backhand counterhit, the forehand counterhit, the backhand push, the forehand push, the serve, and the serve return. Without these things you cannot expect to move to the next, intermediate, level of table tennis playing.

You can also include in your table tennis training some of the fun stuff the tricks of the trade that make table tennis all the more exciting. This includes the lobbing, smashing, the forehand loop and the backhand loop. Soon enough you can mix these strokes up to give an impressive game.

4. Attitude no matter how much training you take for how long and what kind, you would not succeed in table tennis if you do not have the attitude to follow through. Table tennis is very much a mental sport as it is a physical sport. You mind has to be very active as everything happens quickly, even quicker than in most other types of sports.

The attitude is also very much important during table tennis training. You have to focus on what you are training for at a certain time. You should set your mind to learn the strokes, that you are practicing. You should also pay attention to your trainer or your training partner. You might have to take turns feeding balls to each other and when it is your turn be good at it as you would hitting the ball. You can learn from all aspects of training if you put your mind to it.

Table tennis training may not really be that important for most people. But if you really want to be good in this game, it is something that is inevitable for you to go through.

Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For more information on table tennis checkout http://www.tabletennismaster.com.

Christmas How to Get Your Money Back on Track and Alleviate Money Stresses!

2008-03-28T02:08:00.000-07:00

In today's world we know that tremendous personal, relationship and business stress can be related back to money stresses. We also know that Christmas can be a time where added money stresses can be a real problem for many families. However, with these 6 great money tips put into practice you can start to alleviate money stress and move towards a healthier and happier financial position and a happier life generally!

Tip 1. - Develop a money' awareness. You need to focus on the money that comes into your life and that flows out of your life. This means writing down and tracking every single cent that you spend. Get a note pad and for 2 weeks write down the date, time, what you spent, what you spent it on, why you spent it, how you felt once you spent it, whether you need it plus write what money came in and what you put into a savings account.

Tip 2. Develop a savings plan. You need a savings plan. Preferably have an amount automatically debited from your account to a specially set up savings account each pay day. The idea is to save a minimum of 10% of what comes in. Open a savings account where you need 24 hours before they will allow you to withdraw from it. This will help you to stay on track. The idea is to use this money for investments such as purchasing shares or for a deposit for a property. You will be amazed at how you will not miss this money and you will learn how to budget on the rest of your money. Read "The Richest Man in Babylon" which is a timeless classic about money skills. It has changed countless lives! You can even read this little book to your children and they too will learn an abundance of life lessons.

Tip 3. Learn how to budget. This may sound simple yet it is profound. Learning how to budget and tricks to keep you on track with your budget can literally change your life for the better on many fronts. This is a learnt skill. A good idea is to find someone who can mentor you with a budget. Find someone who you feel comfortable to share your financial situation with and who is skillful with money. Don't learn from someone who is not financially abundant. Learn from someone who is successful and can show you what not to do as well as what to do. I highly recommend you book in a session with a good accountant who can help you plan a start-up budget, help you monitor and assess as you go. Having someone to be accountable to will help you in the early days to keep on track.

Tip 4 Develop a positive attitude towards money. You have heard this saying money doesn't grow on trees' or money is the root of all evil'. Well it's time to change the negative self talk. It does not serve you. This type of thinking will hold you back and sabotage you. You need to focus on the positive aspects of money such as money supports' a happy, healthy life. You need to prevent self sabotage so you will not go off on a tangent and spend your money and not stick to a budget. I highly recommend that you get yourself a copy of Michele Blood's Success' cd from www.musivation.com and play it in your car, when going for a walk or have it on in the background at home. Michele has put positive words to music. Her music will help to change your self sabotage by helping to change your thoughts to more positive supportive ones. She has a money' song that you'll want to play every day and reap the benefits! Her music goes straight into your subconscious and that is the area of your mind you need to effect. So do yourself a favor and buy yourself her cd as a Christmas present for yourself and start developing a positive money mindset today!

Tip 5. addressing your fear of money remember that money is really nothing more than energy that you can harness or let it run by you. Do you ignore your money? You do this by not knowing where it goes and thus you loose its power. Often when we have been ignoring our money we end up in a mind-set of thinking of and being fearful of not having enough money. Once you start to pay attention to your money your fears will start to drop off. You will know where it comes from and where it goes. Then you learn how you can leverage it. You will, once you learn the skills and put them into practice, find that you have more money than you thought possible. Your fears are coming from a lack of knowledge and understanding of how to harness the energy of money. This is a skill you can learn. Researchers today tell us that it is crucial to avoid being fearful about any lack of money because what we focus on builds stronger neural circuits in your brain. What you focus on expands. You don't want more stress built up because of a focus on the fear of money. Remember that fear stands for false evidence appearing real'. So focus on learning how to harness the energy of money and your fears will drop away.

Tip 6 Develop an investment strategy. This is a skill that needs to be learnt. You can go to a local college or find a group who can teach you. Find a strategy that you like then focus on learning everything you can about that one strategy. You will build confidence and know how to develop a good investment strategy in that area for your future. Don't think that handing over your hard earned money to someone else to invest it for you is the answer. You need to know the basics at the very least so you can make an informed decision. Again knowledge will give you confidence to make supportive decisions for the growth of your investments.

Start putting the above tips into practice and you will find that your world will start to change. It takes courage and commitment to make positive changes in your life. You can do it. Make a decision today to start. Find people who can support you and guide you and your future days and future festive days will be less stressful and merrier!

Bernadette Dimitrov

Puppy-Proof Your Home Before Your Shih Tzu Arrives

2008-03-28T01:12:00.000-07:00

Ah, Shih Tzu puppies.so adorable, filled with boundless energy and curious about any-and-everything around them. Taking the appropriate steps to puppy-proof your home will go a long way in protecting these little ones from harm. Your precautions will also safeguard your belongings from possible damage.

Try to imagine life from a Shih Tzu puppys point of view. You might be saying, well how can I do that? Go to each room of your house. Get down on your hands and knees. Take a good look at what your Shih Tzu puppy might be enticed by. Remember, they are new to your home. Shih Tzu puppies are somewhat like toddlers. Shih Tzu puppies will eventually explore their surroundings. Some Shih Tzu puppies will start right away investigating this new place. Other Shih Tzu puppies may take awhile to settle in. Eventually all Shih Tzu puppies will be exploring their new home. They will roam around like a toddler putting things in their mouth and poling around in nooks and crannies. It is your responsibility to check out what there may be in your home that could possibly harm the new Shih Tzu puppy. You are also looking around for those items of yours you do not want the new Shih Tzu puppy to explore.

Cabinets

Watch out for cleaning supplies and personal care items that are stored in low storage areas like kitchen and under-sink bathroom cabinets. The ingredients in these products are extremely harmful and can even cause death. If the cabinet doors can be easily opened by the mouths and paws of Shih Tzu puppies, try to store these items in some other place. Another option is to purchase plastic child-proof cabinet locks that can be temporarily attached to the handles or knobs. These safety locks can usually be found online or in local pet supply (or baby) stores.

Electrical Cords

How tantalizing is an electrical cord especially when it's looping down from a table or desk? "I can jump at it, pull on it, wrestle with it and even gnaw on it. Shih Tzu puppies will most likely perform all these tasks with an electrical cord. The dangers here are obvious: a falling lamp or electrocution can cause serious injury or worse. Wrap up loose hanging electrical cords or at least block access to them. And for cords that need to run across the floor, use rubber or plastic cord/cable runners that can be purchased at an office supply outlet or home improvement store. If you dont mind plastering a nail in the wall, you can also do this, and hang the cord up out of Shih Tzu puppys eyesight.

Plants

Household plants are attractive to most Shih Tzu puppies. A lot of household plants are poison to Shih Tzu and dogs in general. Ingesting a bite or two can cause nausea, vomiting and in some cases death. It is probably an excellent idea to re-position your plants so that they are out of reach. You dont want your Shih Tzu poisoned or made ill by your beautiful plants. Neither do you want your beautiful plants destroyed by the curiosity of a Shih Tzu puppy.

Small Objects Around the House

Be alert to small items around the house that can be swallowed. Items in this category would be coins, jewelry, sewing supplies, batteries, medication and miniature knick-knacks left on low surfaces. Sometimes worse than swallowing these small items is that the Shih Tzu puppy may choke to death. Don't forget to block access to trash receptacles in the kitchen, your home office and even the bathroom. Shih Tzu puppies love pushing on a trash can until it falls over and then wow all that is inside is within reach. This is so amusing to a Shih Tzu puppy; however, it is a disaster to the Shih Tzu puppys owner. Take heed now before you bring home your adorable little Shih Tzu puppy and block access to trash bins.

Toilet

To an adventurous Shih Tzu puppy, the challenge of climbing up, up and over the rim of your toilet is a tail-wagging delight. Unfortunately, falling head first into this big, slippery bowl of water is not so delightful especially for a smaller-sized pup. Simple solution: make it a house rule to keep the bathroom door closed at all times.

Puppy-proofing your home before your wonderful little Shih Tzu buddy arrives may seem like a hassle, but providing the safest environment possible is a necessity. After all, your lovable, four-legged bundle of joy is worth it.

Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Please visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Sign up for our FREE newsletter.

Soccer Positions

2008-03-27T17:13:00.000-07:00

As with basketball, soccer is a game with players who perform a specific role. A team is comprised of eleven positions. There is one goalkeeper or goalie, and ten others who have to defend attack or take up midfield positions. Each role has a specific set of skills and a specific area to deal with.

Goalie or Goalkeeper

It is the goalies who has to prevent the opponents from scoring a goal. This person is the only one who can touch the ball with their hands and they can only move within a certain area of the field.

Defenders or Defensive Positions

These positions help the goalie prevent opponents from scoring a goal. Like the goalie, they are restricted to a certain area of the field.

*Centerback-the centerbacks try to stop the opponents particularly the strikers of the opposing team from scoring. They try to keep to ball out of the penalty areas.

*Sweepers- sweepers go after anyone from the opposing team who breaks through the defense line. A sweeper should be able to control the ball and pass it well and counter any moves that the attacking team brings.

*Fullback- These players try to prevent the ball from entering the penalty areas

Midfielders

These players are located between the strikers and the defenders. They try to get the ball from the defenders on the opposing team and pass it to their strikers. This is a position that requires a lot of energy because they have to keep an eye on many things at once. They can be switched from a defensive stance to attacking pose at any time during the game.

*Defensive midfield- the purpose of this role is to get the ball from the attackers on the opposing team

*Attack midfield- these players must try to open avenues for their team to score goals

Strikers or Attackers or Forward

These team members are located close to the opposing teams goal. They are the ones who score goals. Another role they play is to try and help others on their team score a goal. Most familiar soccer players are found in this position because they score the most goals.

Gavin Sanderson provides articles on http://www.online-atv.com. Visit " target=new>http://www.soccer-kick.com/a> to find more of his work.

Easy Ways To Make Extra Cash Online

2008-03-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

There are numerous simple and easy ways to make some extra cash online. This article will give you some ideas.

Surveys

One of the best ways to earn some extra cash online is by taking surveys. There are many companies that need consumer opinions on a wide range of topics, and many of them will pay you money or with points you can redeem for cash or prizes. It's easy and free to signup and the more surveys you take, the more money and prizes you will get. It just takes a small investment of your time.

Writing

If you have decent writing skills, there are many publishers and content distributors who need content for their websites. Two such sites are AssociatedContent.com and Helium.com, they will pay you for each article you write. You don't have to be a fantastic writer either, just have a good grasp of English and be able to write something of interest on a given topic.

Blogging

Blogging is fun and easy and, again, you don't need great writing skills. You just need to be able to communicate your thoughts and ideas well. You can get your own customizable blog by getting a domain and hosting package that includes the Fantastico module. This module allows you to install the blogging software, WordPress, with 1 simple click. It's super fast and easy and you'll be blogging in no time. Once you have some visitors, you can add Adsense ads or affiliate ads to leverage your visitors and make money from them. Remember, the more interesting your topic, the more people will be interested, and the more readers you get, the more money you will make from your advertising. Blogs can be about anything, what do you have a passion for? What is your interest? Blog about it!

Affiliate Marketing

Many online companies have affiliate programs. Amazon.com, for instance, has a great affiliate program that allows you to sign up and get a customized URL to any page or area of their site. Then you can send this URL to your friends and family and encourage them to buy gifts from Amazon.com. With every purchase from your affiliate link, you get a commission! There are thousands of other affiliate programs out there, in addition to Amazon's program.

Sell Your Extra Stuff

We all have extra stuff laying around our houses or garages. Why not get rid of it and make some money too? Get your stuff and take a picture, write a description and put it up on eBay. You may find that something you thought that wasn't worth anything, is actually worth something!

Contests, Sweepstakes and Instant Win Games

Everyday there are new contests, sweepstakes and instant win games launching. If you are vigilant and spend an hour or a few a day entering contests and playing these games, you will win something eventually. Playing these games and contests is often fun anyway, so why not take a chance? Check out sweeps.ws for a great list of contests, sweepstakes and instant win games.

Free Lottos

You know how you go to the convenience store every week and spend a few bucks on lottery tickets? Well, there are also online lotteries where you can get tickets and win cash prizes. The difference is, these lotteries are free! Yes, free! You can find a list of free lottos at sweeps.ws.

Online Casinos

There are hundreds of different online casinos on the web. I bet you thought that you needed money to play at them and win? Well, you were wrong. You can signup for free poker tournaments that have cash prizes. There are also slot, roulette and blackjack tournaments that you can play that have real money prizes. All for free! Check out freerolls.net and gambling.com for listings.

There you go, 8 fun and easy ideas to make some extra cash online!

Lydia Quinn writes for PaidSurvey24.com, a free and comprehensive paid survey directory list. Visit us at: http://www.paidsurvey24.com

How To Get Business Success Part 3

2008-03-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

Business Principle Number 3: Check Out The Company

What do you think is important when looking for a business?

Sure, the first things you think about are the products and how much money or sales you can make. Then maybe you think about how you are going to actually operate the business and make money.

In fact, it is easy to get caught up in all the hype there is today in the Internet, especially in the area of home based business and making money at home. It seems that every day there are new get in at the ground floor opportunities, as well as so many offers and claims that it makes your head spin. To add to the confusion, there are heaps of Internet marketing product launches, specials, limited offers, bargains and not to be missed deals that you end up spending money on other peoples businesses instead of making profits yourself.

I know, because I have done this myself I have spent thousands of dollars on numerous home business opportunities and on internet marketing products that I thought were the key to business success. Some were good, some were a waste of money.

The thing that I have learned is to check out home business companies to make sure that they meet a number of standards. It makes sense when you think about it. Because if a company is not managed properly it will fall over. Now if I have put a lot of effort into growing a home business, the last thing I want is for that company to fail because of poor management. As well as the financial implications (youre in this to make money after all), you do not want to damage your personal reputation and credibility, which is a valuable asset that you have worked hard to develop.

When a company fails, people think it is because of a poor product, or not enough sales. In fact, it can be quite the opposite. This happens to small business owners too, because as the business grows, the company cannot handle the details. This includes managing the sales, salaries and commissions, and paying their own bills. And because they cannot keep everything going, they actually sell themselves out of business.
Of course, there are companies that fail because of other reasons, like fraud, not keeping up with the needs of the customers and so on.

So what do you look for in a company? Well personally, I always start off with a bit of due diligence, which is as easy as doing a Google search. Just to get a feel for the company (remember that there are always a few complaints, so you want a general overview). I want to make sure that the company is legitimate, so it really helps if the company has a proper office and street address, phone numbers that are answered, and a help or support desk for e-mail enquiries too. I prefer it when there is a real person, with a name, in charge of the company, so you can check them out too.

To be a successful company in a growth phase (because you want the business to be growing and not shrinking), the management team must look after

* Everything to do with commissions and salary, including taxes
* All legal issues, advertising laws
* Customer service and support
* Training of staff and business partners
* Future planning and business planning
* All computer hardware and software issues, including security and websites
* Quality control
* Human Resources
* Product development
* Communication
* Sales and marketing
* Delivery of products or materials (some are digital but many companies still provide product and/or training materials physically).
* International business
* Admin
And so on and so on.

This is just a fraction of all the things that companies have to do to keep ahead of the game and provide a solid foundation for future growth.

I believe it is very helpful to look at a home business companys track record. If it has been around for a few years, is operating successfully and is handling the growth well..these are good indicators that things are fine.

Janet Ellershaw is a successful Internet marketing professional who really loves working at home.

Ultimate Wealth Package. Make Money on the Internet? ....A Review

2008-03-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

Treat Yourself With Odessey Putters

2008-03-26T22:59:00.000-07:00

Previously we discussed how your golf clubs and even the sunglasses you wear can determine the outcome of your golf game. Another typical item that is often overlooked is your putter. If you two putt every hole, that is 36 strokes out of your total score. WOW! Having a putter that youre comfortable playing with is very important. Do you want to become boss of the moss? If so read the below write up before selecting a putter.

Previously we discussed how your golf clubs and even the sunglasses you wear can determine the outcome of your golf game. Here is a great sporting site http://www.capecoral-golf.com. Another typical item that is often overlooked is your putter. If you two putt every hole, that is 36 strokes out of your total score. WOW! Having a putter that youre comfortable playing with is very important. Do you want to become boss of the moss? If so read the below write up before selecting a putter.

Odessey putters belong in the Callaway family of golf clubs. That alone tells you that they present some of the finest craftsmanship and highest levels of performance available on the market. Thats because Callaway has a long record of outdoing its competition with innovative designs and novel clubs, such as the world-famous Big Bertha.

To his amazement, however, instead of being just a fragile hickory-shafted club, these Hickory Stick clubs were reinforced with steel. Their core was filled with the metal, which endowed the clubs with power and steadfastness. Callaway was so smitten by these clubs that he actually didnt just buy a set. He bought half of the company. (This would explain why later Callaway would invest in quality clubs like Odessey putters.)

Up to this point weve discussed just one particular type of putter. Please do not feel like this is the only type of putter you should buy. This is just one review of one company that is famous for quality putters. There are several other companies that make high quality putters. Remember, it comes down to your comfort level. I personally play a very strange type of putter with a wide open stance. I will review this putter in upcoming articles.

The new company was called Callaway Hickory Stick USA. The firm spared no expense in attracting the finest talent in gaming design, research and development, and manufacturing. It quickly developed a name for itself as a producer of high-end golf clubs. The success inspired Callaway to buy out the rest of the company.

The legend of Callaway golf is not one of those 100 year old tales that start in Scotland. Instead, the story begins when Ely Callaway sold his former business, a vineyard, in 1981. At first Callaway leaned toward retirement, and like most men of his age, he took to golf to pass the time. One day, he was shopping in a golf shop in California when he spotted a pitching wedge that reminded him of the clubs of yesteryear.

The investment paid off enormously in the 1990s. It was all thanks to a little women called Big Bertha. Actually, she was no women if you were a golf ball, and she wasnt so tiny when compared to other drivers of the day. In fact, Big Bertha was the 1st stainless steel driver with a bigger head and more forgiving sweet spot.

Thanks to this club almost alone, Callaway became one of, if not the, top golf companies in the universe. This puts Odessey putters in very good company.

Well thank you for taking to time to read our review on Odessey putters. Remember how we discussed that comfort is the most important factor in choosing a putter. The majority of your strokes will be on the putting green and we hope to reduce that number by holing out more 1 putts. Oh yes, remember the most important thing, relax and enjoy your day.

David Corey freelances for the following websites in his extra time:

Make Money Selling Ebooks with CBMall

2008-03-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

Information is one of the biggest reasons people surf the internet. Finding out how to lose weight, how to meet that special someone, how to work for yourself and fire your boss...the topics go on and on. Amongst the sites that deal with topics like this are an ever-growing collection of eBooks. eBooks are a great item to sell, as there are no printing or shipping costs. All you need is the website from which to sell eBooks.

CBMall takes care of the website for you. All you need to do is promote ebooks that are sold through CBMall, and you receive a commission on all sales through your mall. The "CB" in CBMall refers to Clickbank, which is one of the largest repositories for eBooks on the internet. CBMall takes the most popular, best selling eBooks from Clickbank and makes them available in an easy to use website that functions like an online shopping center, or "e-mall".

I purchased a CBMall back in 2005. With your purchase, you receive your own link that gives you commissions on all sales made from people who click your link. You do not need a website, which greatly reduces the amount of investment you need to make. Your CBMall account gives you access to a knowledge base of how to get started with promoting your CBMall and even offers some words of encouragement from Jeff Mulligan, creator of CBMall.

Jeff has created a great mini course on CBMall and how you can use this to develop your own online business. The course is free to take and it is a great way to check out CBMall without spending any money at all.

I have been impressed with the ease of use of CBMall, and its various features. There aren't any hidden surprise charges that come up after you buy it. The only other investment you can (and should) make is in promoting your CBMall link, since that is the way you make money through CBMall. The good news is, Jeff offers you a good amount of information on how to market and promote your CBMall. The great news is you are not forced to buy loads of software or sign up for any hosting or long term monthly service agreement.

I've promoted my CBMall through some Pay Per Click ads on Google and MIVA, as well as some Ezine ads. I've sold several products through CBMall and have built up a considerable amount of subscribers to Jeff's CBMall mini course. I will be paid commissions if any of the subscribers under my name purchase CBMall. There is some sample promotional copy for CBMall available through the site, just keep in mind you'll probably want to use your own as a lot of people will probably use the standard stuff.

CBMall gets an A+ with a big gold star. This is a great tool - just remember, you'll need to spend time and some money to get it to work for you (just like any worthwhile business venture.)

Find out about more about CBMall here http://theebookstar.com/cbmall

Paul Heingarten is an entrepreneur, author and consultant. He owns several websites and has assisted business owners with website design and marketing. Take a look at his site http://www.theebookstar.com -- a huge range of ebooks at reasonable prices.

Teaching Your Puppy Bite Inhibition

2008-03-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

Bite Inhibition is one of the most important things your puppy must learn to become a well-trained, respectable dog. Bite inhibition is a learned response in which your dog will consciously inhibit the full force of his biting ability. Without learning bite inhibition a dog can severely injure or even possibly kill another dog or even a child.

Puppies learn bite inhibition during the socialization of nursing and playing. If a puppy bites while nursing the mother dog will get up and walk away. If the puppy bites too hard while playing with his littermates, the bitten puppy will yelp and stop playing with the biting puppy. This teaches the puppy that all playing must stop if he bites too hard.

A puppy should learn bite inhibition by the time he is four and a half months of age. Since many puppies are taken from their mothers and other littermates before this time, it becomes necessary for the new owners to take over the role of teaching bite inhibition.

When you are teaching your puppy bite inhibition treat him as his mother and his littermates would. When he bites too hard, get up and walk away, make sure he knows that when he bites too hard all play must stop.

Some ideas you can use to teach bite inhibition are

Sit down and start playing with your puppy. Bring his attention to your hands. When your puppy starts to bite your hands too hard say Ow firmly and stop playing and stop all interaction. Do not look at your puppy but avert your eyes to the side away from your pup. He needs to know that you are serious about stopping the play.

Make sure that your response is short and firm. If you whine or wince your puppy may think that you are still playing and you have defeated your purpose.

After some time has passed, face your pup again and offer your hand if he tries to bite again, repeat the process.

If your puppy is just nipping at you or your clothes you can offer a toy to chew on. If he is not interested in the toy but keeps on nipping, you should withdraw all attention. You can even walk away.

As you practice this, your puppy should be using less and less pressure as he is playing with you. Your first goal should be to inhibit the force of his bite and then to reduce the frequency of his bite. If he is never allowed to use even a light bite, when faced with a situation of stress he will probably react with a overly strong bite and could hurt someone unintentionally.

Bite Inhibition is an important part of training and socializing your dog. It is easier to teach a puppy bite inhibition but even older dogs can learn with some patience and good training.

Kevin Lynch owns a Dog Training site and offers you more information on training your puppy plus a free newsletter full of all kinds of puppy and dog info at http://www.puppy-n-dog-secrets.com/blog/category/dog-training/

Top 50 Christmas Gift Ideas UNDER $50 You can Order Online

2008-03-26T06:13:00.000-07:00

With the Christmas holiday quickly approaching the malls and stores around the nation will soon be filled to capacity. If youd like to avoid the hassle and have your Christmas presents delivered straight to your door without braking your pocket book, check out these unique gifts UNDER $50 that you can purchase online for your kids, mom, dad, husband, wife, brothers and sisters.

Gifts for WOMEN

1. CROCS TM
$29.99
The original CROCS TM Sandal (Unisex). Your favorite CROCS in MANY colors. Propriety sandals are slip-resistant, bacteria-resistant and nonmarking. Available at http://www.crocs.com

2. Lavender-Filled Linens
$28.00
Put one in your pillowcase for sweet-scented dreams.
You can purchase lavender-filled linens by elizabethW at http://www.elizabethW.com

Click to view gift: http://www.elizabethw.com/shp/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=28&cat=Lavender+Pillow

3. Cropped puffer vest
$44.62
Hot, high-quality down-filled polyester, Sleeveless, cropped length puffy vest. Has snap pockets, front zip and loop-and-button closure with detachable faux fur-trimmed hood. Available at http://www.gap.com

Click to view gift: http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=25034&pid=413141&scid=413141022

4. CASHMERE SOCKS
$18.95
Very cozy and affordable cashmere footies by Banana Republic. Get them in any color. Available at http://www.bananarepublic.com

Click to view gift: http://www.bananarepublic.com/browse/product.do?cid=24793&pid=433629&scid=433629012

5. Croissants from Williams-Sonoma
$39.95
Made by French pastry chef Jean-Yves Charon, these are shipped frozen so you can savor fresh-baked croissants just like those in a French patisserie. A box of 15 is available at http://www.williams-sonoma.com or call 877-812-6235.

Click to view gift: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/4276333/index.cfm?clg=27

6. Juicy Couture Charm Bracelet
$35.00
The signature core of the Juicy Couture jewelry line comes complete with a heart charm at the end. Available at http://www.nordstrom.com Item # 140417.

Click to view gift: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2850076?search=true&searchtype=keywordsearch

7. Intimates Nordstrom Flannel Pajamas
$48.00
Premium cotton flannel make for the coziest pj's. Available at http://www.nordstrom.com Item # 153071.

Click to view gift: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2862436?search=true&searchtype=keywordsearch

8. Tiffany & Co. Holiday Mug
$45.00
Mug from the Tiffany HOLIDAY Collection. Bone china, 10-ounce capacity. Available at http://www.tiffany.com

Click to view gift: http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/item.aspx?sku=11764509&search_params=t+Mug+from+the+Tiffany+HOLIDAY+Collection-s+0-p+1-l+-h+-c+-r+-x

OR

Tiffany & Co. Annual pocket diary
$40.00
Blue patent leather. 3x5". Available at http://www.tiffany.com

Click to view gift: http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/item.aspx?sku=21627119&search_params=t+Annual+pocket+diary.+Blue+patent+leather-s+0-p+1-l+-h+-c+-r+-x

9. Shuga Buds, Swarovski Cystal Head phones
$48.00
Listen to your favorite tunes with these sparkling buds. Choose iridescent, gold, blue, green or pink. crystals. For use with iPods, MP3 players, portable CD players, and Sony Walkman. Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com Item #NMOF7_H11EW

Click to view gift: http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?cmCat=search&itemId=prod24950136

10. Necklace Vault Jewelry Box
$49.99
Designed to hold a variety of necklaces, this stylish vault features four glassed sides for display. Open the door to fund hooks that hold necklaces securely and keeps them from tangling. A single drawer at the bottom holds other small items. A wonderful gift, it's boxed for giving! Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 1866735
Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B0006ZSMTA/ref=sr_11_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core

11. Triple Garnet Heart Necklace
$50.00
Win her heart. This necklace, featuring three deep-red, heart-shaped garnets, will make your intentions clear. Since the Middle Ages, the garnet has been associated with truth and love. Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=12534&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+her&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8071&bct5=entire+collection&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+her%2Fentire+collection@@30$$-12040@@35$$12040&catOid=-12040&oid=7416096&nc2=1

12. Boucl deep v-neck sweater
$39.99
Texture takes a colorful new twist in this form-fitting, feminine sweater. Plunge front. Rib trim. Imported acrylic/nylon/wool/spandex. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #204-677
Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-204677&page=1&cgname=OSCLOALSZZZ&rfnbr=2406

13. Oval cocktail ring
$34.00
A ring with lots of bling to go around. Arrives in a velvet drawstring pouch and pink box. Imported metal and glass.
3/4" wide. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #206-313

Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-206313&page=1&cgname=OSGIFJWLZZZ&rfnbr=3286

14. Victoria's Secret The Sexiest Fragrances on Earth
$39.50
Seven of her favorite fragrances all wrapped up in the sexiest way. Includes .25 oz Eau de Parfum Sprays of new dream angels desire, America's #1 Fragrance, dream angels heavenly; Very Sexy For Her and Very Sexy For Her 2; Victoria's Secret PINK, Rapture and Body By Victoria. Imported and domestic. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #203-108

Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-203108&page=1&cgname=OSGIFBGSZZZ&rfnbr=3285

15. Victoria Secret Shimmer Brush, Garden Collection
$20 for one or 2 for $35
Give it to glow. Brush adds a touch of scented shimmer wherever you want to shine. Choose from three Garden scents, each with a different color of shimmer. Imported and domestic. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #203-256

Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-203256&page=1&cgname=OSGIFBGSZZZ&rfnbr=3285

16. Victoria Secret Three-piece pajama gift set
$39.50
Bedtime is three times as fun with cotton sleepwear in cheerful prints. Includes three-quarter sleeve cardigan with button front, cami with adjustable straps and ruching, and full-length bottom with drawstring elastic waist. Arrives in a matching gift bag. Imported cotton. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Sizes XS-XL. Item #202-702 $39.

Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-202702&page=1&cgname=OSGIFPGSZZZ&rfnbr=3281

Gifts for MEN

17. Bookmark Dictionary II
$49.99
Have the American heritage dictionary of the English language, fourth edition, and its revised and updated 130,000+ words and definitions right at your fingertipsliterallyas you read! This tiny bookmark dictionary is truly thin enough to use as a bookmark, and its slim, flexible keypad secures to any book with unique keypad clip. Imported.
Keeps date and time.
Large lcd screen for easy reading.
Makes a great gift!
Multifunction calculator also converts measurements of length, temperature, weight, etc.
Uses on lithium battery(included) and features auto shutoff function.
Available at http://www.macys.com

Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=118103&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

18. Callaway HX Tour 56 Golf Ball - Personalized
$44.99
One dozen top of the line, new design Callaway golf balls PERSONALIZED. Available at www.austads.com.

Click to view gift:
http://www.austads.com/austads/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=5107&pf%5Fid=PABBIAACLOLFHDDJ

19. Shoehorn Backscratcher
$25.00
There's always that one spot he can't reach, and, frankly, you're tired of scratching his back. You can feign arthritis, or you can help dad help himself with this bamboo shoehorn/backscratcher combo. Made in Italy. Available at http://www.macys.com

Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=194162&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

20. Handle Mount Grill Light
$50.00
A BBQ light lets you grill at night or any time of the year!For BBQ gifts, heres a truly brilliant idea that puts the spotlight on your cooking! Made to fit conveniently on any grill handle, our BBQ light takes the guesswork out of your outdoor cuisine, allowing you to see whats ready and what needs more time over the heat.
Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 439794

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=439794&search_type=search&search_words=439794&prodtemp=t2

21. Electric Ice Scraper
$14.99
Hate standing in the cold scraping ice from you car? Try this electric ice scraper which will get rid of that troublesome ice in a cinch. The convenient 14-foot cord plugs into your car's cigarette lighter and warms the rubber squeegee to quickly melt away ice from the windshield, so you can get out the cold and into your car. Imported. Available at http://www.macys.com

Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=137042&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
22. Connoisseurs Compact Wine Opener
$40.00
Opening your favorite bottle of wine is now easier than ever before with the amazing Connoisseur wine bottle opener! Available at http://www.brookstone.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=530774&search_type=search&search_words=Compact%20Wine&prodtemp=t1&cm_re=Result*R1C1*A

23. Burberry Golf Cap
$50.00
Send him off to the links in style. Rain-resistant golf cap features signature logo and nova check trim. Choose trench, white, black, or red. Imported of fine Italian cotton and spandex gabardine stretch twill. One adjustable size fits most. Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com Item #NMOF7_N8615

Click to view gift:
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?cmCat=search&srcText=NMOF7_N8615&numResults=0&pageNum=0&cmCat=search&itemId=prod35720073

24. Floating Desktop Globe
$40.00
The world just got a little bit more interesting. This high-tech desktop globe floats in its powerful magnetic stand. It's possible to pass one's hands above, below and around the small globe as it continues to levitate. Simply plug it in, guide the globe into the magnetic field, and it floats in spacejust like the Earth. Available at http://www.redenvelope.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=94016&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+him&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8072&bct5=entire+collection&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+him%2Fentire+collection@@30$$-12043@@35$$12043&catOid=-12043&oid=19374384&nc2=1

25. NAP My Pillow
$20.00
For cozy cuddling anytime. Made of our exclusive NapSoft materialand available in a variety of comfy colorsthese luxurious pillows are the perfect size for anytime napping and cuddling. You can even change the color of your My Pillow by slipping on one of the vibrant NapSac covers. Available at http://www.brookstone.com.

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?pid=MY_PILLOW&wid=100&cid=59&sid=622&search_type=subcategory&prodtemp=t1

26. HoMedics MP3 Cush Music Playing Massage Seat - Black
$49.99
Sit back and relax with soothing heat, massage and music in this massage seat that features 5 massage motors for multiple modes of relaxation. Available at http://www.bestbuy.com. Model: BKMP-3-100

Click to view gift:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7992899&type=product&id=1155070007013

Gifts for Men or Women

27. XtremeMac SportWrap for iPod Black or
$29.95
Perfect for any kind of activity, the SportWrap is an ultra-compact, moisture-resistant case you can wear comfortably on your arm. Available at http://www.ipod.com.

Click to view gift:
http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/6134003/wo/PW30nFwkWvyv2jnrY3xKbRtoAr1/2.0.23.1.0.8.25.7.11.0.3

28. Mini MP3 Speaker Dock for iPod Nano
$50.00
Enjoy portable, rich sound, no headphones required just insert your iPod nano. Perfect for travel or listening anywhere. Includes storage case for protection. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 533000

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=533000&search_type=search&search_words=533000&prodtemp=t1

29. 5 pc. TV Tray Set, Natural
$29.99
Four trays plus storage stand. Available at http://www.sears.com Sears item #00872202000 Mfr. model #PJ-TB001/NA

Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Shop+by+Price&pid=00872202000&vertical=GIFT&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

30. Illuminated Photo Frame
$50.00
Give your printed 5x7 photos a special glow with our backlit frame. Slide in a 5x7 photo print and watch it come to life. The backlit flatscreen frame illuminates the image with a wonderful glow. Also makes a great night-light. Displays photo in portrait or landscape modes. Includes variable brightness control. For best results, use watermark-free photo prints. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 549774

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=549774&search_type=search&search_words=549774&prodtemp=t1

31. Desktop Beverage Warmer
$25.00
Keep coffee, tea and more, hotin your own mug. Now you can enjoy your favorite hot beveragesand keep them hotuntil the last drop with our electric beverage warmer. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 535435

Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=535435&search_type=search&search_words=535435&prodtemp=t1

32. Christmas Tree Frame
$29.99
Look who's peeking out from this very special Christmas tree - it's all the faces you love! There's room for 12 favorite ornament photos on the shiny silver branches, plus we've included a shiny star ready to engrave with a family name and date. Available at http://www.thingsremembered.com Item# 579667

Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_579667_-1_1

33. Jewel Cordials with Tray - Set of Six
$10.00
Whether used for serving pre-dinner aperitifs or after dinner liquours, these Jewel Cordials and Tray are a lovely serving option! This set of six multi-colored glasses arrive complete with a gold finished wooden tray. Each cordial is shaped differently - a unique touch! Boxed. Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 5890697

Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B000AXZC8C/sr=1-1/qid=1163460629/ref=sr_1_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core&m=A2Z4DUPX2Z8M59

34. Holiday Happiness Gift Basket, Hickory Farms
$15.99 49.99 Assorted Gift Baskets
Available at http://www.hickoryfarms.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.hickoryfarms.com/shop/productform.asp?subcategory_code=2&search_type=subcategory&page=1&category_code=1

35. Lumiscope Holmes Foot Buddy Personal Heater
$29.99
Ideal for use in the home or office! The Holmes Foot Buddy Personal Heater features a spacious resting surface and a removable fleece pocket for your feet. It has a simple toe-touch power button and can be adjusted to two different heat settings and three different angles. A built-in handle makes it easy to transport the warmer from reading chair to desk or den, and the fleece pocket removes for washing. Use with or without fleece toe pockets. Available at http://www.sears.com Sears item #08038127000 Mfr. model #38127

Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Shop+by+Price&pid=08038127000&vertical=GIFT&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

Gifts for Kids

36. Giga Ball
$49.88
Jumbo inflatable ball is big enough to crawl inside, roll across the yard and even bounce! One look at the Giga Ball and kids can't wait to bounce it, roll it, and crawl inside to tumble, bounce and spin, spin, spin! Available at http://www.spilsbury.com Item #18961

Click to view gift:
http://www.spilsbury.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=30001&storeId=10001&productId=8961&langId=-1&parent_category_rn=11111&categoryId=11111&ref=spilsbury&itemNo=1&totalNo=1

37. Kick Disc Power Puck
$39.99
Kick Dis is a 7" diameter puck with a motor, rechargeable battery and tough rubber bumper. It hovers, glides and even streaks across rooms, never touching the ground! Play air hockey, hover soccer and more for hours of fun. Available at http://scientificsonline.com Item #3033540

Click to view gift:
http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3033540&cmss=3033540

38. Jump-O-Lene Trampoline
$39.88
Indoors or out, kids will bounce for hours on this inflatable trampoline. Made from heavy-duty vinyl with 13/4' high attached safety wall with rain-drain holes. Available at www.spilsbury.com Item #14663

Click to view gift:
http://www.spilsbury.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=30001&storeId=10001&productId=4663&langId=-1&parent_category_rn=11111&categoryId=11111&ref=spilsbury&itemNo=1&totalNo=1

39. Moon Shoes
$40.00
Who hasn't wanted to escape the bounds of gravity, even for a second? Like mini-trampolines for the feet, these funky shoes provide out-of-this-world fun. Strap them on and prepare to lift off, lightweight and strong, they let kids jump, bounce, hop and leap with abandon Available at www.redenvelope.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=71653&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=2607424&nc2=1

40. Walkie Talkie Wrist Watches
$30.00
Move over, 007. These undercover devices allow young sleuths to hold their own covert conversations. Disguised as digital wristwatches that display the time and date, these walkie-talkies have built-in microphones and fitted earpieces for hands-free communication. Available at www.redenvelope.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=56469&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=5213634&nc2=1

41. Voice Protected Diary
$30.00
Hell hath no fury like a girl whose diary has been compromised by her little brother. Boasting a high-tech voice recognition system, this version allows her to divulge to her heart's content without fear of being discovered. (Even if someone guesses her password, only her voice can unlock the diary.) Other features include high and low security settings, a mini light for writing at night and, best of all, an intruder alert. The tri-fold design has spring-loaded doors that open with ceremony to inspire her next entry. Available at www.redenvelope.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=61623&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=16691902&nc2=1

Gifts for Girls

42. Ballerina Musical Jewelry Box
$26.99
Our smallest jewelry box is a replica of the one we had as a little girl. White box opens to a soft pink colored interior. Lift the hinged lid and witness a miniature ballerina twirling. Available at www.mybambino.com ITEM # JEWEA

Click to view gift:
http://www.mybambino.com/balletjewbox.html

43. Children's Sterling Silver Heart ID Bracelet
$45.00
Surprise a special little girl with this lovely sterling silver ID bracelet! It features a link design and is accented with a dangling heart. Engrave her name and watch her eyes light up. Available at www.thingsremembered.com Item# 500953

Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_500953_-1_1

or

Girl's Sterling Silver Heart Locket
$45.00
Your little girl will adore this beautiful sterling silver heart locket. Place a cherished photo inside and engrave a name or date to create a lasting memory. Available at www.thingsremembered.com Item #517881

Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_517881_-1_1?fcref=fg517881

Gifts for BOYS

44. Gearbotics Sonic T-Rex Robot Kit
$28.95
Gears Trex Kit! Start beginning builders off on the right foot with a Gears! Gears! Gears! Building project that's guaranteed to be ferocious fun! Twenty-eight piece gear building set has exactly the right pieces to bring a wonderful T-Rex to walking, roaring life. Includes motor with T-Rex sounds, gears, connectors and dinosaur pieces.
Dinosaur measures 17". Ages 5 and up. Available at www.discoverthis.com Item # LR-9195.

Click to view gift:
http://www.discoverthis.com/gears-trex.html

45. LITTLE RED SCOOTER - Radio Flyer
$42.99
Classic scooter styling, wood platform with grip tread, and sturdy steel construction. High performance molded wheels and double rear wheels for maximum stability. Adjustable handlebar height and ringing bell. Ages 3-7. Available at http://candy-crate.stores.yahoo.net/liredsctou.html

46. Konus Junior Telescope - KJ4
$49.95
Perfect for young astronomers, the Konus Junior Telescope offers astronomical viewing, zoom spotting for terrestrial use and easy maneuverability! Perfect for the young and curious. Available at http://scientificsonline.com Item #3026801

Click to view gift:
http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3026801&sid=mer_findgift

47. Robosapien
$49.99
Robosapien marks a tremendous advance in remote activated robotic function. Standing over a foot tall, this completely interactive robot has the ability to walk, dance and groove, as well as pick up and throw items. This robotic wonder also delivers several combinations of strike and chops. The fluid biomechanical motions are amazing. Kids can control all the robotic movements with the easy-to-use remote. Program up to 84 different action sequences, and utilize four program modes for advanced operations. Available at www.sears.com Sears item #05219791000 Mfr. model #126414

Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/subcat.do?vertical=GIFT&cat=Shop+by+Price&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

Gifts for Baby

48. My First Tooth/Curl Box
$12.00
Treasure baby's first milestone by holding on to tiny miracles! This set of two silverpate boxes were designed to hold baby's curl from his or her first haircut, and first tooth. These treasures will be kept safe and secure until they are passed on. Set of two circular boxes are engraved with First Tooth and First Curl and are packaged for giving. Available at www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 1866515

Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B0002V1KWO/ref=sr_11_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core

49. Red Baby Long Johns
$28.00
Wild West cowboys loved long johns for riding the range; little cowpokes will love them for riding through the house. Ours have the traditional back flap, as well as snaps down the front and on the inside legs. Available at www.redenvelope.com

Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=18983&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=endeca_srch&N=0&Nr=searchable%3A0&Ntk=search&Ntt=long+johns&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&initSrch=search&oid=20929519&nc2=1

50. Someday Inc. Personalized Piggy Bank
$42.00
A classic gift, hand-painted and personalized for a special penny-saver. A bow crowns this little pig. Comes gift wrapped in a cellophane bag with a bow and a hand-painted Someday Inc. gift card. Available at www.nordstrom.com Item #166359

Click to view gift:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2873165/0~2379292~2379293~6008493~6008506?mediumthumbnail=Y&origin=category&searchtype=&pbo=6008506&P=2

Nicole Anderson offers a free search for your portion of the $25+ BILLION in unclaimed money in the United States. Millions of Americans are unaware they are owed money. It could come from old savings bonds, uncashed checks, checking and savings accounts, the list goes on and on. Click on to http://www.cashunclaimed.com for your free search and see how much money is owed to you and your family.

Choosing a Personal Fitness and Nutrition Trainer

2008-03-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

Tips About Your Dogs Room And Personal Space

2008-03-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

Regardless of where you live, your dog must always have its own private domain where it can feel at home. Find a quiet place for the dog to sleep. The location should be convenient for you and suitable for your pet. Make sure your dog feels comfortable there, and do not change the location afterwards.

An uncarpeted room, not too cold, with a floor that is easy to wash, is a good choice. A puppy must be well protected from draughts. Beware of cold air seeping in around doors and windows. A dog will automatically settle with its back against a wall, so arrange your pets spot next to a wall or in a corner but not too close to a radiator or heating vent because the dogs coat will dry out and become brittle.

The dogs place should be away from heavily traveled areas because the animal will probably need a lot of sleep, initially. But the dog should also be able to observe everyones comings and goings so it can start taking part in family life. Your pet can probably sleep comfortably in a crate lined with cushions, a towel or shredded newspaper. Large dogs generally just sleep on a blanket.

If your dog will weigh less than 30 pounds when fully grown, you can use a wicker basket lined with a soft, easily washable cushion. The main concern is to see that the animal is well insulated from the floor. Air the dogs bedding every day and clean it once a week. In summer, if your dog gets fleas or tics, treat the bedding with flea and tick powder or replace it completely.

You can put the dogs two bowls one for food the other for water, near its bed. If the dogs muzzle is pointed, use deep bowls, if its muzzle is blunt, shallow bowls are preferable. For a toy, give your dog a bone made of animal hide. It can cut its teeth safely, on the hide because even if it swallows a piece, the material is digestible. You may find that your dog will choose its own plaything; if so, make sure the choice is not an old shoe. This may encourage it to start chewing new shoes.

Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed http://www.joncopets.com. On the site, customers can shop for the latest dog collars, dog clothes, pet supplies and more. Check them out at http://www.joncopets.com.

Dogs and Children

2008-03-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Recent events in the UK have fuelled the debate over dogs and children. The death of a five month old baby after being attacked by two Rottweilers has saddened and shocked everybody and our thoughts go out to that poor family. For a while there may well be an over-reaction but lets keep a clear head and look at the facts and what can be done to help keep children (and dogs) safe. The thoughts that follow are not the voice of an expert but they are an informed opinion. My interest in animal behavior is that of a hobby not a career.

Some of the facts

Its very rare for a dog to attack a child

The most likely cause of an attack is teasing NEVER tease or provoke a dog, however friendly

Most family dogs accept and protect the family children but should never be left alone with them.

Stand still if a dog threatens you. It is instinctive for a dog to chase something moving.

Generally watch out for growling, pricked upright ears pointing at you and a stiff tail held high. (Unfortunately some dogs so enjoy a chase that they may wag their tails as if they were friendly when they are not, so try to get to understand doggie body language.)

The best defense is to become familiar with dogs and their signals.

Most barking, excited dogs you meet in parks may wish to chase you but are not intending you harm.

Dogs are not generally aggressive unless trained to be so. The danger lies in play which gets out of hand. Dogs are not little people in fur coats. They brains work differently from ours. They can hurt a child accidentally because they dont realize their actions will harm them.

Two or more dogs are more likely to get too excited and go into attack mode. The pack instinct rises up.

The only way a dog can tell you it doesnt like something is to move away or nip. Teach children not to pester dogs who are trying to get away.

A distressed dog will sometimes warn by snapping into the air. This is only intended to communicate their displeasure but they can catch a child in the face accidentally.

Dont touch a strange dog without checking with the owner that its okay first.

Take extra precautions if your dog shows any jealousy towards a child. You may want to consider whether you should keep him in those circumstances.

Treat dogs with respect, as fellow creatures not playthings. Dont rob them of their heritage and dignity. The relationship between humans and dogs has been rewarding on both sides. Lets celebrate that.

© Linda Cooke, 2006
http://www.good-ideas.biz
Dogs, cats, work, play and more

Linda Cooke trained as a teacher but has also produced writing and photography for magazines for more years than she would like to mention. More recently she has taken to the Web.

Making Money On The Net, Really?

2008-03-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

Throughout the web, you will find hundreds of business opportunities. From selling coffee to selling cars, you'll find hundreds of things that you have the opportunity to get into to make money. Yet, it is sad to report to you that on average, 70% of all new home based businesses will fail within the first three years that they are out there. Now, before you get discouraged, realize that they do this because of several reasons.

1. They are poorly executed, by individuals that are looking for a get rich quick scheme and realize that, well; it takes work to make money.

2. They are scams that were un-researched, poorly designed or just plain old dumb to start with.

3. The individuals that got into them didn't have the income to put into the business to make the business work.

With that said, there are some excellent things that you can do to actually make an income from home. You will likely need to invest something in it (you don't get something for nothing!) and you'll have to invest time in making it work well.

Here are some things that you can do in brief.

Affiliate Marketing

This is an easy to understand concept. You'll design a website that is geared at selling someone else's product. You get a cut for the sales that are made because someone that came to your website makes a purchase. Often, you get a kickback even if they just visit the site. This is one of many programs that you can usually do together to make even more money. In other words, pair it up with other business opportunities and you are sure to see some profit.

Selling Readymade Products

For those that are looking to sell a product that someone else has made, check out these. Often, these are sold by the development of a website that promotes the product. Things like digitalized products or software are very hot sellers. People come to your website to learn about the product and you sell it to them or provide a link to where they can purchase it. In most cases, you get a commission like payment for doing this.

Think you can't just sell products online anymore? You can. In fact, you'll even be able to find products that are below cost and sell them with a good mark up as well.

Writing And Selling Ebooks

People come to the internet to get information. Why not sell it to them? If you have knowledge (or can get it) about a topic that others want to learn about, you can easily tap into this business market. All you need to do is to write an ebook (or have it written by a professional) and market it. This can be done through eBay or through hundreds of other methods.

Joint Venture

You can often team up your sales with others that are selling the same or similar products. By working together, you can hit a larger amount of people and pull in more sales. A joint venture usually splits the commission made as well as the cost of doing business.

Ecourse

Are you able to teach an individual something? If so, then you should write up an ecourse. This is simply a series of emails, of website information or any other medium that is used to teach or coach an individual. You simply provide information they want and they pay you to do it.

Teleseminars

If you are a good speaker and have information to sell (or that you can obtain) then teleseminars are the way to go. You simply provide a conference call where individuals can call in and listen to what you are teaching them. Of course, they paid you first.

Public Domain Products

Little did you know that you could use material that is labeled as public domain to help enhance your business. Team this up with other types of marketing and you are sure to sell your product.

Directory or Review Websites

By creating websites where individuals go to receive a product or service, you are opening the door to making profits. Team this up with things like affiliate marketing and Google Adsense and you'll see an income.

Membership Sites

Develop a membership of individuals that are looking for your products or information. They will pay you monthly to use your service.

Ezines

One of the fastest growing ways of marketing on the web, you simply put together an online form of a magazine or newspaper and sell it. You can also give it away free and fill it with ads to your products or website campaign.

EBay

Learn how to make money on eBay one of the world's largest auction websites. You can make an income, not just a few dollars if you develop a campaign to do so.

Blogs

Blogs work well on websites. By providing information there about your products or attracting individuals back to your blog, you can promote the products on your website easier.

Google Adsense

Normally individuals pair up Google Adsense with other marketing campaigns to sell their products. This is a way of getting a few extra profits when individuals visit ads that are on your website.

Podcasting

In the digital age, people are looking to stay connected all the time. With podcasting, you can sell your product or service or you can actually build a casting such as a radio show that goes out around the world.

Amazon Book Reseller

If you have books lying around your house that you would like to get rid of, you can become listed on Amazon as a reseller. Unlike eBay this is not an auction site. It's a great way to sell books that you don't need. (You can also find free or really cheap ones to sell if you don't have any!)

Opinion Panels

Why not take a few surveys and make money? There are many survey websites on the web that do actually pay you a good deal of money to take them. Once you find them, its easy sailing here.

Conclusion

Making money online can happen. You have to make the right decision about doing so though. You'll need to find the business that fits into your life and your needs. Then, you'll need to learn how to do the business, what it takes and the tricks of the trade. If you can learn this, you can buy it to learn throughout the web. From a little stream to a full time income, the internet is full of ways you can make money.

Keith Lee is a motivational speaker, a life coach and a fitness instructor for the past 10 yeras. He study and did research on the Internet Marketing Industry for years. Go to his webiste http://www.MyInternetMarketingSuccess.com for some superb tips.

The Truth About Pet Store Puppies

2008-03-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder why so many pet store puppies are sick or become sick within weeks of bringing them home?

The truth about pet store puppies is disturbing. If you're an animal lover, the following paragraphs will be difficult to read, but simply doing just that could potentially spare a life.

It's hard to imagine that in this country where dogs are considered valuable members of the family, have their very own telelvision and radio shows and people dress them in designer clothes and treat them like children, that a grave place called a puppy mill could still exist.

A puppy mill or puppy farm is a breeding operation with the sole purpose of making money. The animals are not screened for potential genetic health defects or even given basic medical care. There is definitely no attention paid to producing dogs that comform to breed standard for size or temperament.

A puppy mill can be a sign along the road advertising puppies, an ad in your local newspaper or they can even have a nice website, but they are almost always behind those cute puppies you've seen in pet shop windows.

You'd never know by looking at those puppies the deplorable conditions from which they came. You'll see how excited they get when you approach their cage. You might even slip your hand through the bars despite the posted warning not to and entertain the thought of bringing home the one who seemed most eager, but it's what you won't see that would leave you gasping.

For that puppy's mother, life (if you can call it that) is a desperate struggle. Her body is used up from years of overbreeding and because of this, she will probably never see her sixth birthday. She has never been shown love or compassion and probably has no idea what it would feel like to run in the grass.

Her life is not like that of a normal dog at all. She only exists for the purpose of breeding and has lived her entire life in the same small cage where she eats and sleeps and where she's probably given birth to several litters.

But that doesn't matter to the owner of the puppy mill. He only sees dollar signs when he looks into her dark, sad eyes. In another six months he'll breed her once again for the sake of filling his wallet and the puppies will be shipped around the country to various pet stores and puppy brokers and the morbid cycle will continue.

When she's no longer able to breed, she'll finally be put her out of her misery- if she's lucky enough. The sad truth is that she will probably still be worth a few dollars to a testing facility: A laboratory that uses dogs for the sake of testing new products.

There is no hope of ever stopping this morbid cycle of abuse as long as we keep buying puppies from pet stores.

Don't be fooled by AKC papers. Although the AKC doesn't condone puppy mills, almost anyone can register a new litter providing both parents are registered purebreds.

Please help put an end to this torture. Join the fight to eliminate puppy mills by refusing to purchase a puppy from anyone other than a reputable breeder. There are also millions of animals around the world in need of adoption. You might be surprised to know that one in four dogs rescued by the ASPCA, Humane Society and similar shelters is a purebred.

Please refer this article to a fellow animal lover or anyone who might someday be in the market for a purebred puppy.

My name is Brooke Faulder. I've made it my business, my passion and my mission in life to put an end to the exploitation of animals. Learn more about the plight of small breed dogs by reading through the pages of http://www.small-breed-dogs.com.

Learning the Hard Way: The Essentials of Halloween Dog Costume Design

2008-03-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Many dog clubs and animal organizations sponsor activities throughout the year where you and your pooch can bond. This is especially true at Halloween, when you and your dog will have an opportunity to take part in costume contests, parades, and other events to show off your creativity. Our local Humane Society, for example, has a "Howling Party," while our dog club has its annual "Fun Fair." Other organizations put on dog parades. The best part about all of these events is that you are able to show your dog off in costume!

Even if you are staying home this year and waiting on trick or treaters to come by, consider having your costumed dog go with you to the door. Or, if you have trained him to open the door to greet guests even better! If this is the case, your dog should also be trained not to jump on guests when they arrive. A well-costumed dog greeter might have neighborhood children running away before they get their candy should he jump upon them.

Before I became a dog owner, I thought it was silly, unfair, and perhaps a bit inhumane to dress dogs up for Halloween. Since those days, I have become a dog owner and now realize dogs love to participate in all activities (except a trip to the veterinarian). Participating together in Halloween festivities with your favorite furry friend is another opportunity for you to cherish your time together.

WORDS OF WISDOM ABOUT DOG COSTUMES:

Over the years, I have learned a few lessons about dressing dogs up for Halloween. Every year when Halloween approached, I would work feverishly trying to create the perfect dog costume. Spending hours sewing together parts of old-fashioned mops, I attempted to make my terrier into an instant Komondor (a.k.a. Hungarian Sheepdog). For a day, I wanted him to feel like one of those amazing dogs with a Rasta-style hairdo. When people spotted him, they would exclaim, "Hey it's a dog in a dog costume!" But, I really thought, It's a dog in a people costume!

As I walked proudly down the street with him in his Komondor costume, he decided to shake until his costume des mops dragged along between us. From a distance, I thought he might get by looking like a street cleaner. But to my despair, he didn't. As crowds watched, he simply looked like a dog dragging a huge mop down the street how embarrassing!

This is when I learned the first two essential rules for dog costumes:

1) Keep the costume light.

2) Keep the costume simple.

The next year, I had a puppy to dress up. Constructing an adorable lightweight costume was my only goal. Since the puppy loved carrying objects in her mouth, I covered a stick in leather for her to bite and carry. Then, I attempted to put a pair of panties on her. She frantically yelped, bounced, and wiggled them off, and consequently refused to let me near her with the undergarments in hand.

This is when I learned the third essential rule of dog costumes:

3) Always give your dog a trial run before assuming she will wear any costume you muster. Or, better yet, have your dog wear the costume around the house before Halloween so that she will get used to it. Don't learn the hard way.

The following year, I made plans to take my older dog to the Halloween dog parade again. Since I had learned from experience, I chose to fashion a costume that was simple, easy to make, and lightweight. My dog was going to be "a walking billboard!" I glued two rectangular pieces of foam core together with material in the center and was going to lay it over the top of my dog. This time, however, I was determined to be smart about it by letting him get used to it beforehand following my own third rule.

It worked out great as he paced around the house and the billboard costume got some great laughs from friends and family members. I was happy that things would turn out better than the two years previous. As the parade began, we marched along together and he suddenly did the unexpected, as if he were planning it all along. He crouched down and the billboard became a non-flexible tent. He was able to walk right out of it, which got additional laughs from the crowd, but meant an immediate disqualification from the contest.

This is when I learned the fourth essential rule of dog costumes:

4) Expect the unexpected, even when you think you've thought of everything!

The following year, I tied a large helium balloon around the dog's mid-section and put a small lightweight blanket over him. The blanket had a little box sitting on it with two tiny stuffed animals. I had ribbons around the bottom of the balloon that I attached to the box. The costume was adorable, or so I believed. It was a balloon-ride costume. The bobbing balloon must have been more exciting to the other dogs because as soon as the other dogs got sight of him, they started pulling away from their owners in hot pursuit of the shiny red balloon. Fortunately, I had a pair of scissors and cut the string. Up, up, up it went. Bailey and I were free, but so was our balloon. And once again, we were disqualified from the parade, as had become a tradition.

This is when I learned the fifth and sixth essential rules of dog costumes:

5) Be prepared. Before you go to any gathering, think about what you should bring along In case something needs a quick fixing or if something goes wrong.

6) Bring your camera and have plenty of film. I wished I had gotten a picture of my dog in his balloon costume before I snipped the string. Check your camera batteries too. And, have a friend take some photos of you and your dog together you'll enjoy them later.

Last year, however, I took the easy way out. I purchased a Superman costume from a costume shop. Most costume shops now carry such paraphernalia. The costume was lightweight, which was a plus. I decided I would just use the cape and keep the other parts of the costume as back up. So, once again, we were off to our annual dog club "Fun Fair," and one of the featured activities was a Halloween dog parade with an award for "Best Costume".

My dog was dressed upon arrival. I tied the cape under his chin and that was it. Kids shouted, "It's Super Dog!" Adults responded by shouting "Not original!" Someone walked up to me and asked, "What happened? We expected you, at least, to be original." Feeling guilty, I sat there not taking home any awards. But, it was the first time my "Super Dog" participated in his very first Halloween parade. To me, he looked great and I was so proud of him. Then towards the end of the night, we were called over, along with several other "Super Dogs" with the same attire, for a photo shoot.

Submitted 10/26/2006

Copyright (c) 2006 Melanie Light

Melanie Light is an artist and art educator. She is site owner of Wheaten Works at http://www.wheatenworks.com, ArtZpet at http://www.artzpet.com and Petz Classic Dog Art at http://www.cafepress.com/petz . Her portfolio site can be found here: http://mlightart.com . You will find more artwork, gifts, and information on these sites.

Wouldn't It Be Great To Meet All The Fans Of Your Favorite Team?

2008-03-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

How many people reading this enjoy at least one sport and wouldn't mind taking the afternoon off to watch their favorite team play? I'll bet 9 out of 10 hands go up!

Sports are fantastically popular with people of all ages and all walks of life in EVERY country in the world. This is not only true today, but has been the case since the Ancient Greeks hosted the first Olympics thousands of years ago.

While not everyone ranks themselves as a sports enthusiast, most of us can easily agree sports are a good thing. Sports tend to bring the best out in people everywhere. Even co-workers who don't care for each other become friends at a sporting event. And you can't deny even warring countries often set aside their differences when it comes to a long anticipated sports event between the two.

Wouldn't it be great if you could meet a lot more people who share your exact interest in sports? If you're a SF Giants fan, knowing other Giants regulars would be a cool thing. You'd have so much to talk about and lots of fun tips, gossip, and inside knowledge to share.

Unfortunately, we rarely get to meet many of the people who share our sporting interests. Watching TV at home may let you share a game with your immediate family or a good buddy, but forget knowing any of the other millions who may be watching the game.

Even if you sit in the stadium with tens of thousands of screaming fans, you'll be lucky if you meet anyone other than the person sitting next to you or the person behind you in the line to the bathroom.

Today's Internet technology has advanced to the point where sports fans and teams can EASILY find and communicate with each other.

With just a few clicks of the mouse, you can quickly create your own fan page on a system that has thousands of other fans just like you ready to view your page. You can talk with each other on blogs, via chat, through email and more.

Additionally, teams can create their own pages as a way to invite fans to communicate with them. This gives teams valuable insight into what their fans find exciting, what they don't like, and what will get them to attend more games.

Keep in mind, your fan or team site can be included on a vast network of sports sites where there is always a large and ready audience to interact with your page or posts.

If you love sports, you really should get involved with the online sporting community. It will greatly enhance your enjoyment of your team, the sport, and your day-to-day life.

Jason Hu is creator of http://SportsDigger.com The site's easy systems let you instantly create your own fan web page or team page. Search for and easily communicate with anyone who shares your interests anywhere in the world. And it's all 100% FREE! Contact Jason at contact@sportsdigger.com.

Learn Forex Trading Strategy

2008-03-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in forex trading? If you are, you should probably start off by learning more about it and get some training.

Proper training is a must if you are going to be trading. There is a lot of money involved in forex trading. Without properly learning the forex market and how to trade forex, you can really lose a lot of money. However, you can also really make a lot of money once you know what you are doing. 90% of traders actually lose money in the forex market leaving only 10% of traders making money. Do you want to be part of the 90% or 10%? It is really up to you. Get the proper training to learn the forex market and start making money by trading forex. With the right training, you can learn how to start making money by trading forex in your very first month.

If you dont even know what forex trading is at this point, you definitely need to get some proper forex training to learn it. To summarize what forex trading is, it is pretty much trading, or exchanging of one countries money for another countries money.

There are many places to get good forex training. There are also many places that can offer you poor forex training. There are many poor training systems out there that just want to take your money. However, there are also training systems out there that will actually teach you the forex market and show you how to trade so that you will make a profit.

The first thing you should learn is what forex trading actually is and how it works. The forex market is always changing so you need to be updated with the latest information and news regarding it. After understanding the basics of how the forex market works, you should then start learning more in depth detail of how to trade and earn a profit. While you are still learning how to trade forex, you should never manage an actual account. You should always start with a demo account before you actually try it for real and manage a real account.

For more information on where exactly to get the proper training needed to trade forex, visit http://www.netearnings.biz/forex/index.html

Kevin Anderson

I Am The Dog Whisperer

2008-03-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

I AM THE DOG WHISPERER

I am often asked by potential students to define dog whisperer for them. On occasion, Id take 2 minutes and other times Id take 60, trying to condense one term into a facile definition. Due to my own personal frustration in finding a complete definition of dog whispering, I finally just decided to sit down and really create a guide that would fully explain dog whispering; what it is, what it aint, to everyones satisfaction, especially mine!

I am the Dog Whisperer. All too often I see you after a traumatic experience with your dog, when you are scared and upset. You call me to rescue you from chaos and insanity, but it is already too late.

Your life is in shambles, the neighbors hate you, a child is disfigured, the victim is pressing charges, the police are at the door, and your home is at risk. I, however, can't turn back the hands of time and prevent the fatal attack, but I can help you and your family move forward and plan for tomorrow. I am the Dog Whisperer.

When your heart is broken, I'm quickly on the scene. I will repair the lost hope; rekindle the loving feeling that you once had toward your dog. In time, I will help you learn to trust your dog again, and I will help you dog learn to trust in you once more. I am the Dog Whisperer.

Sometimes you are frustrated with the inconvenience and expense of having to hire me. But when you call, I will be right there with the tools and training to resolve your dog training concern so that you, your family and your community can feel safe and secure. I am the Dog Whisperer.

I am available to help you housetrain your little Christmas puppy. I am there to place the missing obedience training on your out of control, hormonally driven adolescent dog so that he can stop jumping up on Grandma. We can help the shelter or rescue dog fit into your lifestyle easily, safely and sanely. Even though you may have picked a dog that does not fit in with your lifestyle: it's too big, too mean, too hyper, with my training and gentle touch, I can make sure that the dog learns to follow your direction. I am the Dog Whisperer.

In the best of all worlds, you will call me to help you with your new spring time puppy, you'd call me to help you pick the right dog from the shelter and you'd call me to so that I could talk you out of purchasing that puppy from the pet store. I offer products and services to help protect that which is yours. I read magazines, attend seminars and belong to trade groups so that I can increase my knowledge and my ability to help you solve your problems. I am the Dog Whisperer.

I am a Dog Whisperer. I am a psychologist, a teacher, a poet, a shaman, an artist, a preacher, a parent. I deal with people that are upset and dogs that are upset; I calm the savage beast within each one of you. I have been trained to secure and protect your children, your home, your assets and even your life. I have devoted my life to help you have the American Dream; a happy family with a happy dog.

Who Am I? I am an Animal Rights Activist. I believe that animals have the right to be educated so that they can fit into our modern life. I believe that it is inhumane and immoral to have an untrained, uneducated dog that is a danger to the family and the community. Our domestic dog has the right to have the kindest, the best, the most effective, most humane training tools and methods used for their education, so that every dog in America can have the greatest of gifts; a good and loving home.

Who Am I? I am a Pro-Choice Activist. People have the right to have all training tools and training methods at their disposal so that they can make an informed choice as to what tools, techniques and tips will work best with their dog, their lifestyle and their personality.

Who Am I? I am a Pro-Life Activist. I believe that murdering dogs for bad behavior when a particular training tool or training technique fails them. If one training tool or technique fails, then the dog and the owner have the right to seek relief and rehabilitation from other dog professionals that may use alternative techniques.
http://www.animalrights.net/quotes.html

Who Am I? I am Pro-Traditional Family Values. Good families deserve to own good dogs. Good dogs are dogs that are well-mannered, tolerate children, are polite to strangers and do not poop, pee or bite where or when it is inappropriate. Good dogs create good families, good families create good neighborhoods, and good neighborhoods create good cities.

Who Am I? I support Breed Tolerance. All breeds can be trained and educated to be good family members, good community members and assets to our modern life. I despise Breed Bigots, the radical elements in American society that claim a dogs breed matters more than his behavior. Punish the deed, dont exterminate the breed.
http://www.nokillnow.com/PETAIngridNewkirkResign.htm

Who Am I? I am against The Culture of Death pushed by PETA, HSUS, ALF, ELF and other domestic animal rights al-queada groups. These groups are committed to the complete extermination of the domestic dog in good, loving, American families.
http://www.petakillsanimals.com/article_detail.cfm?article=134a

http://www.activistcash.com/biography_quotes.cfm/bid/456

http://www.consumerfreedom.com/news_detail.cfm/headline/1865

Who Am I? I defer to Mother Nature, for she always knows best. The best way to rehabilitate a dog is to treat it like a dog, not like us. The dog is born on to this planet to experience life as a dog, not a person. Mother Nature is always right, always appropriate and never makes mistakes. So if you communicate with a dog in his language respecting the particulars of his dog culture, then a good dog is always the result.

Who Am I? I am a Fido Freedom Fighter: I believe that dogs think and feel much like people do. I do not believe that the dog is a unthinking, unfeeling, black box that operates on a simple reward/punishment paradigm. I know that the dog dreams, the dog remembers, the dog thinks and that the dog has a soul, in his own doggie way. I believe that dogs deserve to have as much freedom as good manners and good grooming will allow them in our modern lives, which means well mannered dogs should be allowed everywhere. I believe that good dog training should not be a crime. I am the Dog Whisperer and I support the National Urban Eden Days Good Dog Doctrine.

The Urban Eden Good Dog Doctrine

The public has the right to be safe from dog bites. The public has the right to act stupid around dogs, and not get bitten.

The public has a right to clean, healthy, well-groomed, well-behaved, invisible dogs.

The public has the right to not step in dog droppings.

The public, when in a public space, has the right to not be pestered by a dogs bad behavior such as: barking, sniffing, being jumped up on, licking, pawing, whining, growling, biting, humping of things, peeing on things.

http://www.dogdoright.com/urban-eden-day.htm

All About Ami Moore The Dog Whisperer of Chicago

Miami DolphinsThe New Bengals? Not Yet

2008-03-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

With the arrest of Miami wide receiver Chris Chambers this past weekend, some might start to wonder if the Dolphins have evolved into Bengals over the off season. Chambers, a 2005 pro bowler and star of, ahem, my fantasy team, was picked up in North Carolina for driving while impaired, reckless driving, and speeding on July 14th. With the arrest, Chambers is now the third Dolphin to be taken into custody this year. If eight more Dolphins find themselves behind bars, they will pass the Cincinnati Bengals and lead the league in most (jail) yards gained.

Besides Chambers, Fred Evans, a defensive tackle with Miami, was arrested on June 23 for trespassing, resisting arrest with violence, disorderly conduct, and battery on a police officer. Joey Porter, the Steeler turned Dolphin, was arrested for a March conflict where he was accused of punching Levi Jones, an offensive lineman for the - go figure - Cincinnati Bengal. Porter was eventually charged with a misdemeanor.

So, there you have itare the Dolphins taking a page from the Bengals and - in lieu of evading sacks and tackles - focusing their time on evading the law? Well, not exactly.

To being with, this is a first offense for Chambers: before Saturday, his professional record was completely clean. He also - according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel - passed a breathalyzer test while at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police station. While he certainly shouldn't have been doing any kind of drinking and driving, he can chalk his arrest up to a mistakeand NEVER do it again.

Fred Evans offense, a violent crime, wasn't as benign, and this wasn't overlooked by the Dolphin's coaching staff. In the aftermath of his arrest, Evans found himself unemployed: Miami let him go. Cam Cameron, the head coach, released a statement saying, "We will not condone this type of behavior. I assure everyone it will be dealt with seriously." And seriously dealt with it was. Good for Cam for standing by his word, and his morals.

Joey Porter's arrest for hitting Levi Jones makes me think that neither party was innocent. When you have football players, packed with testosterone, and add the element of alcohol, these things will happen. Still, Porter is a bit of wild card and someone Cameron should keep an eye on. Porter has not only spat out accusations of cheating, (jokingly?) said he was going to give George Bush a piece of his mind, uttered homosexual slurs, and been voted one of the NFL's dirtiest players, but he also owned two dogs who killed his neighbors miniature horse. How, exactly, does that kind of thing happen?

Nonetheless, for now you can chalk Porter up to a talented player with a lot of passion (if not too much) who likes to run his mouth, and sometimes puts his foot in it. He's hardly the first NFL player to get in a fist fight and he won't be the last. Porter and Chamber don't quite deserve to be labeled Bengals just yet. As for Evans, well maybe Cincinnati has an opening.

Jennifer Jordan is a senior editor for http://www.milleniumlimo.com. An avid sports fan, she likes the Miami Dolphins but her heart belongs to the Denver Broncos.