Why Montel Was Really Fired...

Three minutes into this awkward segment on Fox, one host cut off Montel in order to go to a commercial. Montel did not return after the break. Four days later, after 17 years as a television host, Montel lost his job.

Hmmm...freedom of speech? Nope, not for Montel. I believe Montel is right. You can read more of my thoughts and view comments by going HERE

Watch the video and tell me what you think: Do you agree or Disagree that he should have been fired?



Write to FOX if you disagree: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,77538,00.html

FOX, CNN, NBC, CBS and the rest of the MAIN STREAM media no longer provide us NEWS.....just contrived entertainment and distractions.

Dr. Phil's Test

Dr. Phil's Test: Here you go. Try this!

Below is Dr Phil's test. (Dr. Phil scored 55; he did this test on Oprah - she got a 38.) Some people pay a lot of money to find this stuff out!.

Read on, this is very interesting!

Don't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself.

Don't peek, but begin the test as you scroll down and answer.

Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready .

This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and prospective employees. It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question.

Ready?

Begin.

1. When do you feel your best?

a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon and early evening
c) late at night

2. You usually walk...

a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast, head down
e) very slowly

3. When talking to people you. . .

a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with. . .

a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) you r legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with...

a) big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...

a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...

a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most?

a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray

9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are...

a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers

10. You often dream that you are...

a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for some thing or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant

POINTS:

1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1

Now add up the total number of points.

OVER 60 POINTS : Others see you as someone they should 'handle with care.' You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to be come too deeply involved with you.
51 TO 60 POINTS : Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them u p and help them out. < /U>

31 TO 40 POINTS : Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.

21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you' re boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.

If you took this test, were your results accurate? Please let me know by way of leaving a comment.

Just Another Tip for Affiliates

As I search the web, drop cards with Entrecard and search for products and/or services, I find one thing abounds....Affiliates.

A lot of people want to help you make money online, some even show their profits on their blogs. Some share tips, bring about awareness of new items, promotions, companies, services etc...

With that being said, I guess I am no different. Awareness brought on by someone else can help you succeed in where ever your interest lies.

I found an affiliate site that is backed by the WCCL Network. What is this? It's a network that promotes self development tools, window utilities and products for writers and artists utilizing affiliated sites.

The company the WCCL is behind is MyHelpHub.com, a dedicated support site. They provide up to 50% commission of their niche marketing tools. You are allowed to purchase products for yourself using your affiliate number to earn the commission. If anything, this is a way to save some money on the products you are interested in, buying for gifts etc. You receive the percentage back on the sale via PayPal after 35 days.

Their products and/or services are grouped as:

Internet Business Tools

Privacy Tools

Self-Development

UK Products

Windows Utilities - Software Street

Writers & Artists

All Under One Roof

When making a web hosting choice, you have many options. Whether you have a personal site, small business site or an e-commerce web site, you will need a plan that provides all your needs. There are many features to consider, from start up...choosing a domain name to more specific features, such as; support, bandwidth, dedicated servers and if other resources you may be interested in are provided.

What is helpful is having a free directory to see all the hosting plans and resources available all under one roof, so to speak, so you can make the right choice.

Web Hosting Choice has provided that. They did all the work for you. Providing you with a learning center, a complete list of all the web hosting companies and the plans available, to the more specific plans that may be necessary.

They also make available an advanced search, in which you enter the plan details, features needed and payment options.

The Web Hosting Choice site is very clean, professional and straight to the point. You will feel very comfortable navigating through this site. Their question and answer page is very detailed and answers most common asked questions.

The Benefits are Endless

Volunteers...they provide a valuable service that shouldn't be underestimated.

Some benefits you can expect from choosing to donate your time to help others:
Having fun:
Get involved in a project that you thoroughly enjoy. Something you believe in and is a worth while cause

Learning and Teaching:
As a volunteer you can share your knowledge and gain some wisdom from others. You can gain new skills and even learn about a new field or profession

Enjoy Health and Fitness benefits:
Staying active is a opportunity you have when volunteering

Make Friends and Network:
Volunteers can find others who share their passions

Recognition and Acknowledgment:
Getting involved allows others to realize the importance of your service and recognizes your accomplishments

Making a Difference:
When volunteering you can develop a sense of giving and belonging

Achieving a sense of Accomplishments:
Volunteers should see that their efforts and time has helped the community or specific cause. Their efforts does amount to something and inspires confidence and pride.

Experiencing Different points of view:
Volunteers have the opportunity to get involved with different generations, cultures and abilities.

Enriching family life:
Being a volunteer can be an activity the whole family can share. Volunteerism is a great way to teach children valuable life lessons. Sharing, giving, helping others,

Why not devote some time to a worthwhile cause, a community project or service? The benefits are endless...

Have you offered your time as a volunteer? If so, what benefits did you personally acquire?

Source: Parks & Recreation

Light at The End of The Tunnel

We have all heard the bad news. The real estate market is suffering. More than two million adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) are to reset at much higher rates in coming months, worsening the housing market.
The mortgage crisis rippled into the nation's economy and the average price of a home is on a decline.
Foreclosures are at a record high and will only worsen. It is a sad state of affairs.

Based on that news, it has many people worried. The national news we hear may not be reporting what is actually happening in your area or how it is affecting the state you live in. You may have noticed the interest rates have come down, which will allow more interest in home buying, but do you know what is happening in or around your local area?

I came across a blog that points to 'light' shining on the real estate market. Are we just hearing all the bad news and the good news is being left out of the reporting? I believe sometimes that is true. It seems the bad press surrounding Cincinnati Real Estate is not exactly true. The stats for this area are showing:

* Buyers' or Sellers' Market: About 50-50
* Average Time on Market: 60-90 days
* Market Trend: No Change
* Compared to last year: Up 0-5%
*Only 5% of homeowners have a non-prime or sub-prime borrower with adjustable rate mortgages

Those are pretty good stats. When you have an experienced professional reporting information in your area, you can rest a little bit easier when looking into buying or selling a home. I found that Amy B believes it is her job to inform and educate the people in her area. This is one realtor that loves what she does and it is projected in her performance and services she offers. Her blog, provides motivation and information regarding her local real estate market.

I found http://www.amybsells.com to be a very professional and easy to navigate site, which offers a grand list of resources available. One of the services she offers provides Home Staging. That is key for a home seller. She plunges in immediately with her marketing and creates a custom plan appropriate for each client.

Using MLS, Internet Marketing, upgraded advertisement, virtual tours, electronic lock boxes for safety, incentives for the seller/buyer, I'd say she goes above and beyond her call of duty. The team working with her strives to provide a smooth transaction. She wants her clients to feel supported, so she offers herself 24/7.

More real estate professionals should take the time to educate as Amy is, while providing services which will allow buyers and/or sellers to be successful.

Be sure to stay informed on what is happening in the market surrounding your area.

*Advertisement

Do You Point Fingers?

An interesting observation is how negativity surfaces from people pointing fingers at others for activities or making money from their blogs or whatever the situation may be. This touches all areas...personal, business, political

But, do the ones making accusations or judgments ignore their own activities or decisions?

Have you ever come across a blog post that shouts how people have lowered their standards or are selling out by putting advertisements, affiliate programs etc on their blogs and all the while, that same finger pointing person has ads or affiliate programs on their very own blog ? It just baffles me.

My feelings are a person has a choice to do what makes them feel comfortable.What is garbage to one person, may be a treasure to another. If you are able to bring information of value to anyone, why not make money doing it? Is it right or wrong? It's a personal choice. Using some form of advertisement has been around for a long, long time and I don't think it will be dissolving anytime soon.

I myself have been alerted to many valuable products and services by way of ads. From TV, radio, blogs, newspaper etc... I am sure you have too. Some I chose to use, others carry no value to me. It's all about choices and what interests me. Those people supporting ads, did make money. Why is it in the blogosphere, this topic is one of major concern?

This also leads me into thinking about the ethics and personal responsibility involved in the political world. How many fingers are pointed at someone who accepts gifts, discounted services or have marital affairs in a governmental position? And again, those same finger pointers ignore their own activities. Negative campaigning? I think it just makes people cynical of all parties involved.

If you are pointing fingers at anyone and for what ever the reason may be, I think you should first examine your own activities and practices.

Have you ever had a friend mad at you for something of which they so graciously and quickly pointed at you, but in reality they ignored their own actions and decisions by having done the same thing to you or others?

What are your thoughts? It just irks me when I see or hear of someone pointing a finger at someone else and all the while they are personally doing the same as the ones they are pointing at.

Maybe developing a personal code of ethics is the answer.

Character is doing the right thing when nobody's looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that's right is to get by, and the only thing that's wrong is to get caught.

Saying Thank you...Part 1

Just a little link love to some of my readers.

Thank you for being a part of my community. It has been wonderful sharing our knowledge with one another...

My Chic Things
Bet shop boy
A Circle of Women
Mind Body and Soul
Prince of Wall Street
Swany Website Blog
I Love My Heart
How To Gamble
Adjustable bed Center
The Sauna Center
Grand Alliance
Addicated 2 Decor
Intexblogger
Scholarpreneur
Appying to US Universities
RaaSaa
Ayayyo
One Quart Low
Hot Roast
MoMoneyTv
Expand my Wealth
After Died
Eddyt7878
I Home Security Info
Nicole B Photgraphy
cari duit internet jutawan
Lagu video
Flexi blog
Webmash
you betta recognize
Faith 2 lift u
Fibro fatiga
adullamite
Sicarii
meu cantinho minha paz
poderdoamor
renato doxaguia
everything everywhere
hulag
Alexis marrero
ozzo maru
asian bikini girl
Asian hot beauty
Korea hot actress
Natural health articles
Totally pissed off
as the cracker head crumbles
singing to the Lord
Pinoy skull
Humor vice
Pretty Patrol
Beautiful World
dhamma delights
Impermanent world
Bikinis world
Veerasundar
My Only Photo
story blob
fish hawk droppings
hollywood jokes
online tips
Blog online tips
Travel Pangs
Personal Paranoia
Strange Corridor
Coffee sister
Ciao 9 to 5
brix picks
Ruan MT'Blog
Rhyan dot Net
Life With Roxxymetal
Dog Lover
Make Money Online with EJ Cooksey
Losing It-Get Fit
Texas Medical Freak
Steve Wilson Marketing
Your Caring Angels
Hello Singapore
Products & Medicines providing natural, alternative care and herbal Remedies
Cool Steals and Deals
Life To Success
Doing it the Tiny Bellows Way
The Kerala Articles
More Than a Living
Gather Success-The Internet Marketing BLog
Virtual Entrepreneur
Resource Economics
Feel Happy
My Internet Marketing Adventures
Speedcat Hollydale Page
Voice of Bragg
Gadgets Directory
The Bootstrapper's Club
Wright Hand Blogger
When Least Expected
Joseph Park
The Panther

Part 2 coming soon...

Breaking Into The Music Industry

Music is a big part of my life. Some of you may or may not be aware that I worked in the music industry for about 11 years. The first 6 working with Peacekeeper Security and then another 5 working with promoters from AM Productions.

Those years were filled with great memories. I met wonderful people, talented artists, including actors and actresses. Some of which I still keep in contact with. I was able to see both sides of the industry: the fan and business side.

I lucked out knowing the owners of both those businesses, but did you ever have a secret dream of getting into the music industry? Would you know how to seek out careers in music?

Artist House Foundation at artistshousemusic.org is a great site to get started. Run by John Snyder, he offers a guide to a life in music and provides it through a learning experience about music and the music business.

You will find advice to parents, discussions on the business side of the industry and many resources: Such as video and article content, exclusive interviews, finding the best school, master classes, learn how to cut a cd, write a song and a community that is free to join. This community offers you the benefits of free lessons, news updates, music content only available to you and much more.

Do you have questions? Get them answered by the industry experts.

You may not even realize the many music careers available. Production, marketing, legal...literally hundreds of positions.

Behind that concert you attend, are literally hundreds of people working together to make things run smooth. Lighting, sound, production, security, stage hands,runners, guitar techs, riggers, merchandise, make up, wardrobe...too many to list.

If you are interested in the many music careers available and learn how to break into the business, take a look at this site. You'll be amazed at the content, the resources and the information provided.

Welcoming Change

In my previous post, Do You Know Where to Find Opportunity, Hye from Space of Reality commented that she agreed with me that people are afraid of change. Some adapt better than others, some even love change,but change sometimes scares people and hinders them from finding and acting upon opportunities, being successful, trying something new, proceeding with a dream or dealing with a good or bad situation.

Let's have an 'ah ha' moment...life is change. You need to let go of the thought that life is predictable, easy or happens the way you think it should. Welcoming change, expect change. Whether good, bad, difficult, destructive, even change in our daily routines. It's bound to happen.

If we fight change, we are actually hindering ourselves. A much better way to deal with change is to accept it and then proceed. Being rigid and resisting change will probably feel more painful.

There is much more to this universe than we can ever understand. If we are fearful of change, we should be gentle on ourselves and patient. Find a way to relax and make peace within our self, so we are ready to deal with what the universe is handing us.

When change presents itself, it may feel awkward and not at all normal. I know when I have a change in my daily morning routine, I feel 'off', but realize I didn't have control over it and then just go with the flow. It makes things go much easier for me. I say to myself...well, it was meant to go this way, so be it.

If we are afraid of a big change, then it might help if you broke it down into parts. Overcome each part and feel good about each part you successfully master. You really don't need to get yourself overwhelmed looking at the "big" picture.

In the midst of change, you can also find the familiar. Look for the familiar that still remains and remind yourself there is still that feeling of normal in your life.

We must also realize that change eventually ends and that very change will become familiar. Afraid of starting a new job? At first it will feel like change. You might feel awkward or uncomfortable, but within time, that will eventually fade into familiar.

If we take a step back and evaluate the change that may be entering our lives, we may see information or wisdom. A lessen learned, a blessing in disguise or a door opening and waiting for us to step through.

Learn How to be a Super Affiliate

Do you belong to many affiliate programs? Are you making money? If yes to both of those, are you satisfied with the money you are earning from referrals? Are you satisfied with the service you receive from the advertiser themselves?

As I surf the Internet and browse through many, many blogs, I see affiliate programs are the most common advertised. I wonder how many of you are actually 'in touch' with the company you are advertising.

At the top of my blog I have posted:

Why learning is important..."It is critical that a company create the kind of environment in which people really believe they can learn, grow, and prosper. The focus has to be on developing people."

I believe in that.

With my own company affiliates, I keep a close connection. Using emails, even the phone, we are able to discuss and share any concerns, questions and ideas, so we can make more money. After all, it is my job to help my affiliate. Can you say the same about the companies you are affiliated with?

Are you bored, tired and less motivated to promote the service or product you are affiliated with? Do you want to do more than putting a banner on your site?

I belong to a few outside affiliate programs myself and I know I can't say that those companies keep in touch with me at all. Although their client base must be huge, I still believe it is up to the company to find some way to motivate and help their publisher. Sometimes is not about quantity, it's about quality

Let me tell you about a new approach in affiliate marketing. Pepperjam Network knows what it takes to make an affiliate program work. Not only for the publisher, but for the advertiser as well. They understand what is lacking in other programs are the tools necessary to be successful. Understanding that educational materials must be available to help publishers become super affiliates. They have even introduced affiliate chat, so you can instantly feel connected.

Pepperjam Network is empowering the advertisers to get involved and to build a relationship with their publisher. If it weren't for the publishers bringing in the referrals, how successful would their product be?

Joining Pepperjam Network is free. If you want an opportunity to take your affiliate marketing to the next level and learn how to grow and prosper, join now.

Below I include a press release from PepperjamNetwork

Pepperjam Announces Launch of Next Generation Affiliate Marketing Network

Pepperjam, a two-time Inc. Magazine fastest growing company and industry leading full-service internet marketing agency, today announced the launch of Pepperjam Network, a proprietary next generation affiliate marketing network.

If you are an advertiser or affiliate and would like to sign-up for Pepperjam Network please visit www.pepperjamnetwork.com.

“Pepperjam Network represents an evolution in affiliate marketing. The creation of Pepperjam Network represents eight years of research and development and the combined ideas, feedback, and intelligence of hundreds of affiliate marketers and advertisers. Pepperjam Network will forever change the face of affiliate marketing by putting power back in the hands of affiliates and advertisers to build long-term, profitable partnerships through better communication tools and transparency,” said Kristopher B. Jones, President & CEO of Pepperjam.

Among a variety of affiliate marketing enhancements, Pepperjam Network addresses the two primary shortcomings of other existing affiliate networks, namely (1) poor, unreliable communication tools and (2) lack of affiliate transparency. With Pepperjam Network, affiliates and advertisers can communicate in real-time via Pepperjam Chat™, thereby providing a reliable communication system to build stronger, more profitable partnerships. Pepperjam Network also provides advertisers with an unprecedented measure of affiliate transparency, which helps to establish trust, protect brand integrity, and lays the groundwork for open, long-term, profitable relationships.

Pepperjam Network also introduces pepperjamADS, which is a first-ever affiliate marketing widget that affiliates can use to serve customized contextual ads from one or multiple Pepperjam Network advertisers at the same time.

Pepperjam Network was designed to make the experience of affiliate marketing profitable and educational, with the goal of allowing affiliates and advertisers to truly understand and maximize the critical affiliate marketing channel.

Unlike the traditional networks, Pepperjam Network uses Web 2.0 technology to provide affiliates and advertisers with an easy-to-use, cutting-edge interface designed to facilitate and optimize the affiliate marketing process. For instance, Pepperjam Network offers industry leading source-level tracking and reporting - this robust technology is especially beneficial to search marketing and sophisticated super affiliates that want to take advantage of the most up-to-date technology available to track commissions at the keyword level.

Here is just a sample of what many industry experts are saying about Pepperjam Network:

“Even after all these years using Commission Junction on the merchant and affiliate side, I still find it terribly clumsy to find what I want. With Pepperjam Network it is quick and easy. Pepperjam Network is what an affiliate network would look like if it were built from a wish list from both the affiliate and merchant perspective,” said Shawn Collins, Cofounder of Affiliate Summit.

“As both an advertiser and a affiliate, I am on the lookout for affiliate marketing systems that meet all our company’s needs. Pepperjam Network is without a doubt the most comprehensive, practical and useful affiliate marketing system I have seen to date. Pepperjam Network demonstrates that it is possible to combine style with substance in a network that provides site owners and advertisers with tools and resources to increase their bottom line,” said Joel Comm, New York Times Best-Selling author and CEO, InfoMedia, Inc.

About Pepperjam:

Pepperjam is an industry leading full-service internet marketing agency offering marketing services and advanced technology in the areas of pay-per-click, search-engine optimization, affiliate marketing, and online media planning and buying. The company was founded in 1999 by internet marketing expert, accomplished speaker, and published author Kristopher B. Jones. Pepperjam has received numerous awards and achievements, including recognition by Inc. Magazine for two consecutive years as one of the fastest growing privately-held businesses in the United States. Learn more at www.pepperjam.com.

DIY Credit Repair

I have taken the time to put together an article on How To Remove Bad Credit from your Credit File.

This information will help correct your credit and it should be done with all Credit Bureaus.

I have personally used these methods and had much success removing negative items, collection accounts that were not mine and removing errors contained in my credit report. You will be amazed at what is listed on your report.

You are legally able to obtain a FREE credit report every 12 months by calling each Credit Bureau. If you were turned down for credit, you can request a copy of your credit report and have the company that declined you outline why you were turned down for credit.

I will show you ways of removing negative items from your credit file. These methods are sometimes referred to as "Credit Repair".

These are the exact same methods credit repair clinics and attorneys charge up to $2,500 or more to perform. Since they don't always do it correctly, people have been taken for millions of dollars over the past years.

You can outsmart creditors who are damaging your credit!

Now may be the time you are looking to refinance or apply for a mortgage. You certainly don't want to be turned down because of negative items that could have been removed. You may think it is not necessary to take the time and perform each step to remove negative items. I can assure you it is very necessary. Your credit affects you every time you apply for a loan, apply for a credit card, or want something put in your name; a utility, a cell phone. Even car insurance companies are checking credit reports. At some companies, your rate is based on your credit score. Why would you want to pay more? The simple solution is reviewing your credit report, correcting any errors, remove negative items. This article will show you how and your credit score will improve.

Remove Bad Credit

An Invitation to QASSIA

Have you heard about the next big thing? I’m talking about Qassia.

This program is currently in beta and is only available through invite only so hurry and sign up now!! Just go HERE to sign up. It is so easy and takes less than a minute to sign up, so what are you waiting for?!

They give you credit for sharing your intelligence, and the more credit you earn, the better your websites will rank. Qassia claims to have the best, most generous, and most reliable ad revenue sharing program on the web. So if you have a blog or website then by all means get on the bandwagon now.

You get credit for sharing your intelligence and you get a backlink to your website for every intel you add. And the more people that join,the more everyone benefits. This program is very new but it looks to have some serious potential.

Don’t Wait…Join Now at http://ac2369.qassia.com

Do You Know Where to Find Opportunity?

Unfortunately, there is no sign on the wall telling us where opportunity lies, but…it is important to understand that how we view opportunity is what is important.

Opportunities are either handed to us, uncovered by us, or created by us. You can create your own opportunity. We must realize opportunities often comes disguised as a problem, challenge, or obstacle.

Thomas A. Edison once said..."Opportunity is missed by most people because it comes dressed in overalls and looks like work." Each person has a choice...your opportunity depends on our attitudes, perceptions and choices. Frequently if a person does not have goals, they will miss opportunity. Each action we make is a choice. Within a choice are alternatives.

How many people miss opportunities because they are afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone? Confidence, taking a chance, believing in yourself is the first step.

Some people are afraid of change, BUT...change can be an opportunity.

Do you know what you want? Do you want to start a business, start a blog, volunteer, buy a home, sell your home? Expand your horizons; read and learn about what you are interested in. Increase your knowledge. Read, learn, grow and prosper!

Develop a plan and make a commitment to follow through. If you are thinking what you had in mind isn't possible, look again. The old saying..."when one door closes, another door opens" certainly is true. If you constantly focus on the one 'door', you may miss out on the other doors presenting themselves. Keep an open mind. Believe that anything is possible...truly believe it!

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters, compared to what lies within us."
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Why Pay More?

Are you in need of new eye glasses? I'm at the stage where I need progressive lenses and I got the shock of my life when I found out how much a new pair of glasses actually cost. I have been putting off the purchase simply due to the cost, but now I found a Great Discovery: www.ZenniOptical.com

This online resource offers a wide variety of frames, with single vision lenses, sunsensor (potochromic) lenses, tinted sunglasses, bifocal lenses and progressive lenses for the incredible cost of only $8.00 Amazing, right?

Honestly I thought it was a case of...it's too good to be true, but due to the company having little overhead, no middlemen to deal with and virtually no advertising budget, it's the real deal.

So, if you are in need of new prescription glasses, check them out first. Why Pay More if you don't have to?

Tax Law Changes for 2007

My mind is already on doing my income tax return for the past year. I'm looking forward to a nice refund...aren't you? I have used an online tax service for my personal taxes for 3 years now and have been quite happy with the service so far.

They have done an excellent job in keeping up with all the latest tax changes. There have been dozens of changes to the tax credits, deductions, and other tax laws since last year, many of which may apply to you. But, who has the time to figure them all out?

Here's some changes you might be interested in knowing, so you can maximize your credits and deductions.

Charitable Contributions: New record keeping requirements for cash contributions mean that you can't deduct a cash contribution, regardless of the amount, unless you keep a record of the contribution. This proof can come in the form of a canceled check, or a bank statement or written communication from the charity if either of those contains the name of charity, the date, and amount.

Earned Income Credit Amount Increased: The maximum amount of the credit has increased to $2,853 if you have one qualifying child, $4,716 if you have more than one qualifying child, or $428 if you do no have a qualifying child.

Earned Income Amount Increased: The maximum amount of income you can earn and still get the credit has increased for 2007.

Expired Tax Benefits: The relief granted for Hurricane Katrina, Rita, and Wilma and the qualified electric vehicle credit have expired and will not apply for 2007.

Income Limits Increased for Hope and Lifetime Learning Credits: For 2007, the amount of your Hope or lifetime learning credit is phased out if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is between $47,000 and $57,000 ($94,000 and $114,000 if you file a joint return).

Mortgage Insurance Premiums Treated as Home Mortgage Interest: Premiums that you pay for "qualified mortgage insurance" during 2007 in connection with home acquisition debt on your qualified home are deductible as home mortgage interest.

Standard Mileage Rates: For 2007 the standard mileage rate for the cost of operating your car for business use is 48.5 cents per mile. Medical- and move-related mileage is 20 cents per mile, while charitable-related mileage is unchanged at 14 cents per mile.

Credit for Prior Year Minimum Tax: If you have any unused minimum tax credit carry forward from 2004 or earlier years, your minimum tax credit allowable for 2007 is not less than the "AMT refundable credit amount." In addition, a portion of the credit may be refundable in 2007, so if the refundable part is more than your tax, you can get a refund of the difference.

Income Limits Increased for Student Loan Interest Deduction: For 2007, the amount you can deduct for student loan interest is gradually phased out if your MAGI is between $55,000 and $70,000 ($110,000 and $140,000 if you file a joint return).

Do You Suffer from Sleep Deprivation and/or Insomnia?

Sleep deprivation is a lack of the necessary amount of sleep your body needs. Sleep deprivation can affect the brain function and it also affects reactions to stress, regulates body functions such as digestion, the immune system, mood, sex, or energy usage, while suppressing growth hormones.

Insomnia is considered a sleeping disorder which a person has difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

Industry guru Bradley Thompson found the secret that was initially discovered in 1839by a German research scientist which can cure these two conditions.

Binaural beats...What is this?
Binaural beats may influence the brain in subtle ways and can be used to produce relaxation and other health benefits.

Binaural beat recordings are sounds that alter your brainwaves. Binaural beat CDs are now available so you can quickly and easily enter states of creativity, relaxation, or pure energy. Visit http://www.sleep-deprivation-cd.com/ if you experience sleep deprivation or need insomnia help.

Think of the benefits from binaural beat recordings! If you ever experienced sleepless nights, you know the tossing and turning, the headache, staring at the clock hour after hour and then when you are able to finally get an hour or two of sleep... you have to get up for work. And that throws off the entire day, feeling tired and miserable.

Bradley Thompson is now offering a risk free offer to help you get the sleep you deserve and what your body needs. Visit his site to learn more

Preventing Bridge Collapses

How many people are affected when a bridge collapses? The deceased, the injured, the survivors, the rescuers, the witnesses, volunteers who help, the hospitals and countless others.

Let's talk about the costs associated with the rescue, recovery and repair....millions I would imagine.
Could the nightmare of a bridge collapse have been avoided?

As I drive through my town and the surrounding towns, I witness repairs being made on bridges. Thoughts of collapse always flood my mind as I drive over a bridge.

How many bridges in the US are in need of repair?

The US House of Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has approved a bill that would provide an additional $2 Billion over the next 2 years to states to improve the condition of structurally deficient bridges on our highways.

The bill would require states to immediately inspect all deficient bridges and continue to inspect those bridges every year thereafter. All other bridges must still be inspected every other year.

Under this bill, the Federal Highway Administration would have to update its Natural Bridge Inspection Standards and require uniformity in how states conduct inspections and evaluations.

Also under this bill, the US Department of Transportation has been directed to develop a risk based priority process for states to assign priority for the reconstruction of each deficient or obsolete bridge.

The Condition of US Highway Bridges by State:
RED= Poor
ORANGE= Below Average
YELLOW= Average
GREEN= Above Average
BLUE= Good

Food Magnetism is the Healthy Way

We're only into 5 days of the New Year and I can't tell you how many people told me their resolutions included some form of diet plan

Let's face it, diet pills and starving yourself will not help you lose weight and keep it off. It will not tone your body. You might shed a few pounds, but it is not the healthy way to go.

I have been reading about this new diet plan. Before sharing this, I wanted to be more knowledgeable, so I subscribed (for free) to the mini weight loss program. It's more than a plan. It involves reconditioning your mind and that's what I like about it. You need to change the way you think to be successful. This plan includes how to control your thoughts, overcome cravings, how using meditation and yoga can be just as effective as exercise to fight fat. If you allow stress in your life, one of the side effects can be to actually gain weight.Did you know that? This plan teaches you how to relieve stress, how drinking water is essential, the concepts of food magnetism and many other lessons.

Of course we all know that you can increase your metabolism by getting more active, but if you don't use all the elements to balance your body, I'm afraid your plan may not work creating disappointment. What happens next? You stop and lose interest. You're right back where you started.

Before you try any gimmicks, pop too many pills or pay a lot of money to join a gym, read up on this and get your free mini diet course delivered to your email inbox. What do you have to lose? besides the weight that is....

Inspirational Thoughts

Some inspiration from the Anthony Robbins organization.

ONE.
Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

TWO.
Marry a man/woman you love to talk to.
As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

THREE.
Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

FOUR.
When you say, "I love you," mean it.

FIVE.
When you say, "I'm sorry," look the person in the eye.

SIX.
Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

SEVEN.
Believe in love at first sight.

EIGHT.
Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

NINE.
Love deeply and passionately.
You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

TEN.
In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

ELEVEN.
Don't judge people by their relatives.

TWELVE.
Talk slowly but think quickly.

THIRTEEN.
When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"

FOURTEEN.
Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk..

FIFTEEN.
Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.

SIXTEEN.
When you lose, don't lose the lesson

SEVENTEEN.
Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions.

EIGHTEEN.
Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

NINETEEN.
When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct
it.

TWENTY.
Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your
voice.

TWENTY-ONE.
Spend some time alone.

10 Top Internet Business Resolutions

I received this in my email inbox today from joel@worldvillage.com. Thought it was worth sharing...

Here is a list of Top 10 Internet Business Resolutions for 2008:

Feel free to repost these on your blog, forward them to friends,
and repost them on forums. Just be sure to give proper credit.
(He has personalized the list to first person)

1) I will clearly define what I want my Internet business to look
like in one year and set specific attainable goals to make it
happen. (You can't get where you are going without a roadmap, so
chart it out)

2) I will follow those who have succeeded, emulate their successes
and learn from their mistakes. (We all need mentors. Be sure you
are following people who have honestly and ethically found success)

3) I will stay focused and not get distracted by all the "bright
shiny objects" (Just because an ebook, course or software product
is great, doesn't mean it is going to help in your specific
business. Be discerning!)

4) I will use the product I have purchased before buying anything
else. (Do you have unread ebooks? Read 'em! Unused software?
Use it! Unwatched DVDs? Put them in the DVD player!)

5) I will prioritize networking relationships with others in my
industry, as it is people and not websites that make my business
successful.

6) I will make every effort to attend at least one Internet
marketing live event in 2008.

7) I will wisely invest time and money in my business. (If you
aren't willing to make sacrifice, you probably aren't going to
achieve your goals)

8) I will THINK BIG! (The opportunity is seemingly endless. Don't
be satisfied with small successes... go for it!)

9) I will not give up! (Nothing happens without action. Never stop
taking action.)

10) I will pay it forward. (It is more blessed to give than to
receive, and I've found that when you help others it always comes
back to you with good stuff)

I hope you find these useful as you enter 2008!

Trim Your Monthly Expenses

Have you been stressed about your family's budget? Are you living pay check to pay check?

If you start to track your expenses, you will get an idea exactly where your money is going and then focus on where to trim expenses. You should include all monthly expenses, including car payments and insurance, mortgage and home owners insurance.

If you find there is little money left after paying all your monthly expenses, you may need to develop a budgeting plan. If your goal is to save more at the end of each month or pay down credit card debt, there are ways to trim expenses. Keep track of all dining out, travel, gifts, clothing, shoes and personal care. You might not realize how quickly these items add up.

When you were shopping for a car, you most likely bargained with the salesman(woman) for the best price, right? Did you bargain the financing also? If your answer was no, then look into refinancing the balance. This can save you money over the length of the loan and could also save you some money each month by lowering your payments.

Comparing a few different insurance companies for the best rates on your auto and home owner policy can also be a good way to save money each month. Most companies offer a free auto and Home Owner Insurance Quote, so you have no reason not to take advantage of this. You will find there are companies out there that offer great coverage for less than what you are paying now. If your home owner policy or auto policy will be renewing soon, now is the time to start comparing and get the lowest rate.

If you need help with your budgeting solutions, Finance Genius offers financial opportunities and resources to better help you with areas of family spending.