Despite all the stress, frustration, and the promise that I would never go back to school, I have decided to reenroll in school and pursue a doctoral degree (yes. Dr.Hobo).
I have spent the last few months debating the pros and cons that include the amount of time, dedication, and cost of furthering ones education.
I have also considered the argument of, is it wise to pursue a degree during such trying economic times, and just how beneficial and prudent has education become lately?
The financial aspect is usually my greatest concern; however, during my research I discovered that despite the state of the economy, there are various programs and resources that will aid in funding ones educational endeavors. Programs both governmental and non-governmental: resources that include the Work Enforcement Act and Loan forgiveness programs. And with a lot of time and patience, one may be able to find scholarships to aid in covering the cost.
So; Hobo is going to suggest to anyone who is debating/considering the pros and cons of continued education for financial and personal reasons... Education will always pay off.
Hobo Bag,
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
The Summer is Ending
Now that we have all been able to adorn our bodies this summer because the weather has been so cooperative it is time to think about the next season. The end of summer signals a spectacular weekend event in Chicago. It is the 32nd Annual Jazz Festival which is held September 2nd thru 5th.
If you are in the Chicagoland area during this time, this is one event that you should check out. The lineup for this last BBQ weekend of the year is below.
Thursday, September 2
Millennium Park - Jay Pritzker PavilionJazz Presenters / Partnership
12:00 - 12:50 Umbrella Music: Bridging Improvised Music and Dance
1:05 - 1:55 Jodie Christian Quintet
2:10 - 3:00 The MIYUMI Project Big Band: "Trans-Rooted" featuring JASC Tsukasa Taiko
3:15 - 4:00 Jim Wagner's All Stars featuring Willie Pickens, Ari Brown, Jimmy Ellis, Robert Shy, Frank Russell, Corey Wilkes and Maggie Brown
Roosevelt University, Ganz Hall 430 S. Michigan Ave. 7th Floor
Friday, September 3rd
Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph
Randolph Café
12:00 - 1:00 Hector Silveira Septet
1:30 - 2:30 The Grilly Brothers Sextet
Claudia Cassidy Theater
12:15 - 1:15 James Dapogny: "Art of the Solo"
1:45 - 2:45 AACM Experimental Ensemble
Preston Bradley Hall
12:30 - 1:30 Tomeka Reid's Hear In Now Trio
2:00 - 3:00 Jim Cooper's Mallet Madness featuring Kathy Kelly
5:00-6:30 2010 Artist in Residence flutist Nicole Mitchell and pianist Anthony Davis
Co-sponsored by Roosevelt University
To see the entire line up please click below:
32 Annual Chicago Jazz Lineup
By the way, this event is FREE all weekend long.
Much Love
Chanel
If you are in the Chicagoland area during this time, this is one event that you should check out. The lineup for this last BBQ weekend of the year is below.
Thursday, September 2
Millennium Park - Jay Pritzker PavilionJazz Presenters / Partnership
12:00 - 12:50 Umbrella Music: Bridging Improvised Music and Dance
1:05 - 1:55 Jodie Christian Quintet
2:10 - 3:00 The MIYUMI Project Big Band: "Trans-Rooted" featuring JASC Tsukasa Taiko
3:15 - 4:00 Jim Wagner's All Stars featuring Willie Pickens, Ari Brown, Jimmy Ellis, Robert Shy, Frank Russell, Corey Wilkes and Maggie Brown
Roosevelt University, Ganz Hall 430 S. Michigan Ave. 7th Floor
Friday, September 3rd
Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph
Randolph Café
12:00 - 1:00 Hector Silveira Septet
1:30 - 2:30 The Grilly Brothers Sextet
Claudia Cassidy Theater
12:15 - 1:15 James Dapogny: "Art of the Solo"
1:45 - 2:45 AACM Experimental Ensemble
Preston Bradley Hall
12:30 - 1:30 Tomeka Reid's Hear In Now Trio
2:00 - 3:00 Jim Cooper's Mallet Madness featuring Kathy Kelly
5:00-6:30 2010 Artist in Residence flutist Nicole Mitchell and pianist Anthony Davis
Co-sponsored by Roosevelt University
To see the entire line up please click below:
32 Annual Chicago Jazz Lineup
By the way, this event is FREE all weekend long.
Much Love
Chanel
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Japan, here I come!!
Well, it's not like I'm going tomorrow or anything but I am going over the Christmas holiday this year and I am very excited!! I purchased my ticket last week and now I'm counting down the days.
I have never been to Japan so I'm looking up all kinds of things on the Internet. I found out that Japan has 4 seasons and of course, December is their winter. Why couldn't it be the other way around and actually be summer so that I could look forward to a warm vacation in the middle of winter, LOL !!! I will definitely have to study up on the yen, the Japanese currency and the etiquette because I don't want to offend anyone while I'm on vacation.
So if anyone has been to Japan before please share your tips and advice.
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned!
Have you made mistakes when it comes to your savings? I think we all have. The below article, courtesy of Yahoo!Finance, talks about the top 20 savings mistakes. I have listed the top 5 but please read the entire article by clicking here or on the title to see all 20.
20 Savings Mistakes People Make
It's less costly when we learn from other people's mistakes than if we have to learn them the hard way. We asked Bankrate's newsletter subscribers if they had any regrets related to saving for retirement. Below are their responses. Some wish they could go back to their 20s and reset the "save" button. Others regret making particular investments. Still others would not spend so much. But one person wishes she had spent more and invested less…
As you read about the experiences of these people who were gracious enough to share their wisdom, see if there are any lessons you can learn so that you can avoid having retirement regrets.
1. Make Transfers Inconvenient
Pay yourself first. So simple, but our problem was always dipping into the savings for various emergencies. I think if about twice a year we had moved the automatic savings money into another account that was not as easy to use for transferring money to the checking account, we would have thought twice about using that money as often. When we look at what that simple $50 per month would be at this point in our lives, we kick ourselves for not being more disciplined.
-- Name withheld
2. Tithe Thyself
I would have saved 10 percent automatically from my paycheck by direct deposit into a savings account earning the best possible interest compounded daily. I would have also disciplined myself to deposit 10 percent of any additional money from gifts, refunds or other earned income.
I would have bought a small house outright with the money I had saved (instead of renting an apartment for over 30 years).
I would have found a job that I loved and devoted my life to it. At least you could be happy even if you were not where you wanted to be financially. Hope this helps someone out there.
-- D. Lorinser
3. Redo the Pension Payout
At retirement my husband and I arranged that when we passed away, the spouse would receive the same pension. This reduced our pension amounts. We should have taken the (single life) maximum and, after calculating how that raised our monthly pensions, we should have used the extra money for life insurance purchases to benefit the spouse instead.
-- Name withheld
4. Aye for I Bonds
I (started) to buy I bonds in 2000. In hindsight, I should have started buying them in 1998 when they first became available. But no complaints, I bought them to the maximum allowable for my wife and I for seven years. They're the safest and best investment that I've ever made.
-- Andy Greenstein
5. Save for a Rainy Day
(I regret) not saving a certain percentage for a rainy day. Put it away and don't look at it. If I knew then, what I know now, at age 66, I would be extremely wealthy. Should have definitely taken (my) parent's advice, but can't cry over spilled milk.
-- Name withheld
Here's to your finances!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
20 Savings Mistakes People Make
It's less costly when we learn from other people's mistakes than if we have to learn them the hard way. We asked Bankrate's newsletter subscribers if they had any regrets related to saving for retirement. Below are their responses. Some wish they could go back to their 20s and reset the "save" button. Others regret making particular investments. Still others would not spend so much. But one person wishes she had spent more and invested less…
As you read about the experiences of these people who were gracious enough to share their wisdom, see if there are any lessons you can learn so that you can avoid having retirement regrets.
1. Make Transfers Inconvenient
Pay yourself first. So simple, but our problem was always dipping into the savings for various emergencies. I think if about twice a year we had moved the automatic savings money into another account that was not as easy to use for transferring money to the checking account, we would have thought twice about using that money as often. When we look at what that simple $50 per month would be at this point in our lives, we kick ourselves for not being more disciplined.
-- Name withheld
2. Tithe Thyself
I would have saved 10 percent automatically from my paycheck by direct deposit into a savings account earning the best possible interest compounded daily. I would have also disciplined myself to deposit 10 percent of any additional money from gifts, refunds or other earned income.
I would have bought a small house outright with the money I had saved (instead of renting an apartment for over 30 years).
I would have found a job that I loved and devoted my life to it. At least you could be happy even if you were not where you wanted to be financially. Hope this helps someone out there.
-- D. Lorinser
3. Redo the Pension Payout
At retirement my husband and I arranged that when we passed away, the spouse would receive the same pension. This reduced our pension amounts. We should have taken the (single life) maximum and, after calculating how that raised our monthly pensions, we should have used the extra money for life insurance purchases to benefit the spouse instead.
-- Name withheld
4. Aye for I Bonds
I (started) to buy I bonds in 2000. In hindsight, I should have started buying them in 1998 when they first became available. But no complaints, I bought them to the maximum allowable for my wife and I for seven years. They're the safest and best investment that I've ever made.
-- Andy Greenstein
5. Save for a Rainy Day
(I regret) not saving a certain percentage for a rainy day. Put it away and don't look at it. If I knew then, what I know now, at age 66, I would be extremely wealthy. Should have definitely taken (my) parent's advice, but can't cry over spilled milk.
-- Name withheld
Here's to your finances!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Friday, August 27, 2010
Investment Club Do’s & Don’ts
I was devastated when the “leader” of our investment club announced that she was moving out of the state. Realizing that it would be difficult to lead a group of Chicagoans from the state of California, we decided to dissipate our group. We have seen many small successes over the years, and I would like to continue with a small group of the ladies.
During my research, I stumbled upon a great article on Black Enterprise Magazine’s website, by Renita Burns, explaining a few of the Do’s and Don’ts of starting an investment club.
Do …
Draft a written agreement or contract with your members. Most clubs operate under a general partnership agreement, establishing the club’s purpose, objectives and structure. A sample partnership agreement can be found in the members section of the Better Investing website. You should also clearly distinguish member roles such as president, treasurer, secretary, etc.
Develop a strategy. Aside from the written partnership agreement, members must come to an accord about an investing strategy and how much time will be dedicated to meetings. When starting out, groups may need to commit to meeting two to four hours a week and eventually shorten that time, according to the National Association of Investment Clubs (NAIC). The organization also recommends developing a good mixture of growth stocks and mutual funds. Portfolios should be diversified in terms of small, medium and large companies, as well as market segment.
Register with the NAIC. For guidance, follow their principals as listed above. Registering with the NAIC will allow you access to the organization’s operating procedures, which describe everyday rules and regulations, such as the duties of officers and time of meetings. The NAIC recommends customizing the operating procedures to meet the needs of your members and revising them as necessary.
Have the necessary resources to continue to educate yourself and the members about running a club and investing tips. You can use NAIC’s Getting Started curriculum or attend seminars, workshops and events sponsored by your local BetterInvesting Chapter – part of a nationwide network. Also, check out Starting and Running an Investment Club for more information.
Don’t …
Forget to make sure your club or adviser registers with the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) if necessary. If the adviser is compensated for providing advice regarding the club's investments, he or she may need to register, according to the.
Start your club without understanding state and federal rules. You’re playing with fire when it comes to going head to head with the SEC and IRS. As a business entity, your club must submit IRS Form SS-4 to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You’ll also file a “Certificate of Conducting Business as Partners” form, which varies by county or state. Your club will file an annual tax return (IRS Form 1065) and may be required to file a state return as well, depending on the state. In addition, members will include their share on their own tax return using the information from IRS Form 1065 Schedule K-1.
Think short term. A long-term buy and hold philosophy -- planning to own every stock for five years or more -- has proven to be the best approach for the majority of clubs whose goal is to build wealth, according to the NAIC. Invest regularly. This means that you're dollar-cost-averaging. You’ll end up owning more shares over the long run. Don’t try to time the market.
Here’s to a Happy and Prosperous Friday!
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
During my research, I stumbled upon a great article on Black Enterprise Magazine’s website, by Renita Burns, explaining a few of the Do’s and Don’ts of starting an investment club.
Do …
Draft a written agreement or contract with your members. Most clubs operate under a general partnership agreement, establishing the club’s purpose, objectives and structure. A sample partnership agreement can be found in the members section of the Better Investing website. You should also clearly distinguish member roles such as president, treasurer, secretary, etc.
Develop a strategy. Aside from the written partnership agreement, members must come to an accord about an investing strategy and how much time will be dedicated to meetings. When starting out, groups may need to commit to meeting two to four hours a week and eventually shorten that time, according to the National Association of Investment Clubs (NAIC). The organization also recommends developing a good mixture of growth stocks and mutual funds. Portfolios should be diversified in terms of small, medium and large companies, as well as market segment.
Register with the NAIC. For guidance, follow their principals as listed above. Registering with the NAIC will allow you access to the organization’s operating procedures, which describe everyday rules and regulations, such as the duties of officers and time of meetings. The NAIC recommends customizing the operating procedures to meet the needs of your members and revising them as necessary.
Have the necessary resources to continue to educate yourself and the members about running a club and investing tips. You can use NAIC’s Getting Started curriculum or attend seminars, workshops and events sponsored by your local BetterInvesting Chapter – part of a nationwide network. Also, check out Starting and Running an Investment Club for more information.
Don’t …
Forget to make sure your club or adviser registers with the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) if necessary. If the adviser is compensated for providing advice regarding the club's investments, he or she may need to register, according to the.
Start your club without understanding state and federal rules. You’re playing with fire when it comes to going head to head with the SEC and IRS. As a business entity, your club must submit IRS Form SS-4 to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You’ll also file a “Certificate of Conducting Business as Partners” form, which varies by county or state. Your club will file an annual tax return (IRS Form 1065) and may be required to file a state return as well, depending on the state. In addition, members will include their share on their own tax return using the information from IRS Form 1065 Schedule K-1.
Think short term. A long-term buy and hold philosophy -- planning to own every stock for five years or more -- has proven to be the best approach for the majority of clubs whose goal is to build wealth, according to the NAIC. Invest regularly. This means that you're dollar-cost-averaging. You’ll end up owning more shares over the long run. Don’t try to time the market.
Here’s to a Happy and Prosperous Friday!
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Journey Back to Me
On my journey back to me, I am learning who I am and what is my destiny.
I have moments when I am on top of the world and moments that have turned me back to a little girl.
Some days of my life can be best described as the perfect pieces to a pie
Included are slices called mother, daughter, friend, and foe and then there are six other pieces that I am still learning to know.
I sometimes call myself Miss Universe without ever realizing that I am holding up the earth
On it axis so eventually I can stop juggling, struggling, and get back to me.
I have learned that you have to stop being everything to everybody and be who you are.
Cause trying to please everyone will never get you far.
Stuck spinning my wheel and to never be free.
Waiting and Hoping someday to get back on the journey to me.
The journey back to me has been a bumpy ride.
I try to hold on tight and keep hope alive
Hoping all of the roads traveled will eventually lead
To my final destination; back to me
Closing Thought:
So many times we are caught up in the "days of our lives". Assisting family, friends, and others and we don't get to fulfill our dreams. It may take five, ten, or even twenty years but at some point we must all wake up and do what we are called to do. Because most don't know what our calling is, we have to go through all these things to get to where we are supposed to be. It is a process, and when you are in the right place, you will definitely know.
In preparation for your journey, always bring extra gear(prayer). Sometimes a short trip can turn into an unplanned extended stay.
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
I have moments when I am on top of the world and moments that have turned me back to a little girl.
Some days of my life can be best described as the perfect pieces to a pie
Included are slices called mother, daughter, friend, and foe and then there are six other pieces that I am still learning to know.
I sometimes call myself Miss Universe without ever realizing that I am holding up the earth
On it axis so eventually I can stop juggling, struggling, and get back to me.
I have learned that you have to stop being everything to everybody and be who you are.
Cause trying to please everyone will never get you far.
Stuck spinning my wheel and to never be free.
Waiting and Hoping someday to get back on the journey to me.
The journey back to me has been a bumpy ride.
I try to hold on tight and keep hope alive
Hoping all of the roads traveled will eventually lead
To my final destination; back to me
Closing Thought:
So many times we are caught up in the "days of our lives". Assisting family, friends, and others and we don't get to fulfill our dreams. It may take five, ten, or even twenty years but at some point we must all wake up and do what we are called to do. Because most don't know what our calling is, we have to go through all these things to get to where we are supposed to be. It is a process, and when you are in the right place, you will definitely know.
In preparation for your journey, always bring extra gear(prayer). Sometimes a short trip can turn into an unplanned extended stay.
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Weight Loss Wednesday
The following are tips from Weight Watchers on how to add activity to your life style. It's important to keep it moving if you are really serious about losing weight. Every little bit counts and will bring you closer to a healthier you!!
Everyday Ways to Get Moving
Article By: Diana Kelly
Find out how everyday activities can jump-start your exercise routine. It’s a common misconception that physical activity requires going to the gym, or buying expensive exercise equipment for your home. But the fact is there are many enjoyable everyday activities from gardening to walking your dog that can help you reach your fitness goals.
When it comes to improving your activity level, start small and adopt a new mantra: "Anything is better than nothing." Increase your daily physical activity with a few of these suggestions, and you'll find that moving a little bit more isn't as hard as you think.
At Home: Get off the couch
You've had a long day at work, dinner has been cooked and cleaned up, and you've been looking forward to watching your favorite TV show all day. Great! Use this opportunity to do a commercial-break workout. Try completing one set of 20 lunges, squats, crunches, arm circles or as many push-ups as you can per break. Repeat this for each commercial break during your show. (Even better if you're watching an hour-long program!)
Brush and squeeze.
Use the time that you're brushing your teeth to squeeze your butt muscles. Hold for one count and repeat. Do this trick in the morning and at night.
Use your steps.
While you can probably lug your overstuffed laundry basket to the washer in one trip, you'll burn extra calories by making multiple trips up and down the steps.
Squat at every opportunity.
Instead of thinking, "I don't feel like picking that up now," view a cluttered floor as a chance to get some leg and butt work in. Bend your knees when putting away clothes, shoes and everything else that isn't where it should be.
Do it yourself.
Around the house, try mowing your yard with an old-fashioned push mower, or take an afternoon to tend the garden or add a new coat of paint to a room or two. In the kitchen, instead of using a food processor or buying produce pre-cleaned, cut and bagged, chop fresh vegetables. And mix ingredients with a spoon using elbow grease if an electric mixer isn't necessary.
To read this article in it's entirety click here, and remember just keep it moving!!
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Everyday Ways to Get Moving
Article By: Diana Kelly
Find out how everyday activities can jump-start your exercise routine. It’s a common misconception that physical activity requires going to the gym, or buying expensive exercise equipment for your home. But the fact is there are many enjoyable everyday activities from gardening to walking your dog that can help you reach your fitness goals.
When it comes to improving your activity level, start small and adopt a new mantra: "Anything is better than nothing." Increase your daily physical activity with a few of these suggestions, and you'll find that moving a little bit more isn't as hard as you think.
At Home: Get off the couch
You've had a long day at work, dinner has been cooked and cleaned up, and you've been looking forward to watching your favorite TV show all day. Great! Use this opportunity to do a commercial-break workout. Try completing one set of 20 lunges, squats, crunches, arm circles or as many push-ups as you can per break. Repeat this for each commercial break during your show. (Even better if you're watching an hour-long program!)
Brush and squeeze.
Use the time that you're brushing your teeth to squeeze your butt muscles. Hold for one count and repeat. Do this trick in the morning and at night.
Use your steps.
While you can probably lug your overstuffed laundry basket to the washer in one trip, you'll burn extra calories by making multiple trips up and down the steps.
Squat at every opportunity.
Instead of thinking, "I don't feel like picking that up now," view a cluttered floor as a chance to get some leg and butt work in. Bend your knees when putting away clothes, shoes and everything else that isn't where it should be.
Do it yourself.
Around the house, try mowing your yard with an old-fashioned push mower, or take an afternoon to tend the garden or add a new coat of paint to a room or two. In the kitchen, instead of using a food processor or buying produce pre-cleaned, cut and bagged, chop fresh vegetables. And mix ingredients with a spoon using elbow grease if an electric mixer isn't necessary.
To read this article in it's entirety click here, and remember just keep it moving!!
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Kitten Heels Recommends....Seadog!
Chicago is a beautiful city! It is exciting and vibrant and full of history. One way to learn about the stunning architecture is to experience an architectural cruise on the Seadog. This is a very popular speedboat that leaves from Navy Pier, which in itself is an exciting place to hang out and enjoy Chicago. Here is the description from the website:
SEADOG RIVER & LAKE ARCHITECTURAL TOURS
Are You Ready For A Thrilling Cruise Experience Along Chicago's Scenic Lakefront?
Seadog Chicago's Architectural Cruise is the only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks and along the river. Departing from Navy Pier, the Seadog River & Lake Architecture Tour is your best choice for experiencing Chicago. Our memorable 75-minute river & lake architectural cruise features exciting views and descriptions of Chicago's most famous architecture, landmarks and history combined with an exciting ride aboard Seadog!
This Exciting, Descriptive, 75-Minute Seadog Architecture Tour:
• Departs directly from popular and easy to find Navy Pier.
• Includes passage through the historic Chicago River Locks and up the Chicago River.
• Includes a river architectural tour and a speedboat ride along the lakefront.
Our Live Narrated Tour Is Educational, Fun And Interesting:
• Learn when and why the flow of the Chicago River was reversed.
• Learn how Chicago architects pioneered skyscraper construction.
• Learn why the beautiful Chicago lakefront is almost all parkland.
• Learn about an $80 million dollar skyscraper construction mistake.
See and hear about the dozens of skyscrapers lining the Chicago River including the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower. Plus, with Seadog Cruises, you will also get a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan. And only Seadog finishes the architectural tour with a thrilling speedboat ride along the lake featuring Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, beautiful Chicago Harbor, Chicago’s Museum Campus and much, much more!
A narrated historical tour can provide interesting and surprising facts. Kids will enjoy their Chicago Architecture Tour so much they won't notice that they're learning. There is no shortage of sights or architecture to learn about and enjoy, and you can get a great view of it all aboard a Chicago Architectural Tour!
In the summer of 2009, when I took one of these cruises, I recall a point when we were surrounded by buildings. I just allowed my head to fall back and took it all in. It was breathtaking! The tour was really much more than I anticipated. As the summer winds down consider taking the opportunity to enjoy 75 minutes of fun and information!
Kitten Heels
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Monday, August 23, 2010
Another School Year
As the days of summer wind down and children begin to return to school, we must remember to continue to encourage them in their academic endeavors.
Here are a few tips that should help you through another school year:
1) Really listen to your children regarding what is going on in school, whether personal or academic. Lots of problems can be prevented if parents only listened to what is going on and take action immediately. With the cyber-age, our children are exposed to a lot of unsavory elements. It is our job to be open and pay close attention to what is going on in their lives.
2) Always act in the best interest of your child. If you think something is a little off or their behavior is off, Act. Don't wait until it is too late. Several teenagers have died from playing the "choking game" A game where they place something over their necks, walk forward until they pass out, then take the restraint off. In the last two cases in Illinois, it didn't work and they strangled themselves. This is a game prevalent in 10 to 14 year old preteens and teens.
3) This may sound corny, but read with your children. Most schools recommend that children are read to or read 30 minutes a day. This summer my husband and I completed the Percy Jackson books (5 books in total) with our daughter. We read every word aloud to each other. We started the books at the beginning of last school year. Now we are on to the Red Pyramid (Kane Chronicles), which we started on a road trip to Omaha. We make time, because this is important to our daughter and she likes the family togetherness when we read. We actually make a list of books that would interest all three of us, then we rank and schedule them. This way, we all get to pick something appropriate and our daughter gets exposed to a lot of different genres, normally, classics, children series.
4) Be positive and encouraging. These days children are exposed to lots of negative images and stereotypes. Ensure that you expose your children to lots of interesting things: museums, movies, plays, literature, sports, etc. We live in a great city and lots of things are free or inexpensive. Encourage your children to explore and always be praising of their academics.
5) Show-up. Let your kids know you are there for them. Go to school plays, be there on the first day of school, sign up for a field trip. Call when they get home from school. Ask about their school day and be involved in their school work (don't do it), know about projects, deadlines, etc.
6) Say no to TV or reduce the amount of time your children spend during the week. Our daughter gets to spend a limited amount of time watching TV. She is allowed to tape her programs throughout the week and then watch them on the weekend. If her school work and chores are finished, she is able to watch 30 minutes a day. I prefer her to play her DSi than watching TV.
These things are just a few of the things I do to interact and bond with my daughter. They may not work for everyone, but I know that I only have a small amount of time for here to want to be with us and I want to make the most of that time.
Also, I want her to know that we are committed to being the best parents possible and that her future is important to us. We know she can be anything she desires.
Enjoy your children and enjoy the upcoming school year.
Peace and Love,
Sandals
Real Life, Real Talk and Real Women
Here are a few tips that should help you through another school year:
1) Really listen to your children regarding what is going on in school, whether personal or academic. Lots of problems can be prevented if parents only listened to what is going on and take action immediately. With the cyber-age, our children are exposed to a lot of unsavory elements. It is our job to be open and pay close attention to what is going on in their lives.
2) Always act in the best interest of your child. If you think something is a little off or their behavior is off, Act. Don't wait until it is too late. Several teenagers have died from playing the "choking game" A game where they place something over their necks, walk forward until they pass out, then take the restraint off. In the last two cases in Illinois, it didn't work and they strangled themselves. This is a game prevalent in 10 to 14 year old preteens and teens.
3) This may sound corny, but read with your children. Most schools recommend that children are read to or read 30 minutes a day. This summer my husband and I completed the Percy Jackson books (5 books in total) with our daughter. We read every word aloud to each other. We started the books at the beginning of last school year. Now we are on to the Red Pyramid (Kane Chronicles), which we started on a road trip to Omaha. We make time, because this is important to our daughter and she likes the family togetherness when we read. We actually make a list of books that would interest all three of us, then we rank and schedule them. This way, we all get to pick something appropriate and our daughter gets exposed to a lot of different genres, normally, classics, children series.
4) Be positive and encouraging. These days children are exposed to lots of negative images and stereotypes. Ensure that you expose your children to lots of interesting things: museums, movies, plays, literature, sports, etc. We live in a great city and lots of things are free or inexpensive. Encourage your children to explore and always be praising of their academics.
5) Show-up. Let your kids know you are there for them. Go to school plays, be there on the first day of school, sign up for a field trip. Call when they get home from school. Ask about their school day and be involved in their school work (don't do it), know about projects, deadlines, etc.
6) Say no to TV or reduce the amount of time your children spend during the week. Our daughter gets to spend a limited amount of time watching TV. She is allowed to tape her programs throughout the week and then watch them on the weekend. If her school work and chores are finished, she is able to watch 30 minutes a day. I prefer her to play her DSi than watching TV.
These things are just a few of the things I do to interact and bond with my daughter. They may not work for everyone, but I know that I only have a small amount of time for here to want to be with us and I want to make the most of that time.
Also, I want her to know that we are committed to being the best parents possible and that her future is important to us. We know she can be anything she desires.
Enjoy your children and enjoy the upcoming school year.
Peace and Love,
Sandals
Real Life, Real Talk and Real Women
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Dream Big!
Dream Big And Live Life Well - Author Unknown
A positive thought to encourage you to achieve your dreams
Now is the time to be bolder, to dare to achieve, to begin something worth doing. Begin now to do something that has long been a dream, something that makes you approach each new day as a journey to accomplish what you want and desire.
Your days are numbered, you won't live forever so now is the time to grab hold of that dream and shake it for all it's worth. Time is a fleeting commodity that can never be retrieved again so do it now, not tomorrow or the next day - now.
Don't just dream.
Dig for it.
Put your desires into motion not just thought.
Act.
Be bold and courageous.
Will it be easy? Not likely. Will it be worth the work, the risk, the frustration?
Absolutely!
Persist, persevere.
Life gives you the opportunity now so don't let one more moment escape your capacity to have, be, or get what you want.
There is one thing that you need to get right before you even make one move to get what you want and that is to trust yourself. Yes, trust yourself to be able to learn what you need to learn, to take risks to accomplish what others may think is foolhardy or impossible. Trust your own resolve to meet each and every challenge along the way.
Remember that YOU are the instrument of change, the mechanism that with all your capacity will see new things unfold as you put thought into action.
Anything is possible.....if you believe!!
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
A positive thought to encourage you to achieve your dreams
Now is the time to be bolder, to dare to achieve, to begin something worth doing. Begin now to do something that has long been a dream, something that makes you approach each new day as a journey to accomplish what you want and desire.
Your days are numbered, you won't live forever so now is the time to grab hold of that dream and shake it for all it's worth. Time is a fleeting commodity that can never be retrieved again so do it now, not tomorrow or the next day - now.
Don't just dream.
Dig for it.
Put your desires into motion not just thought.
Act.
Be bold and courageous.
Will it be easy? Not likely. Will it be worth the work, the risk, the frustration?
Absolutely!
Persist, persevere.
Life gives you the opportunity now so don't let one more moment escape your capacity to have, be, or get what you want.
There is one thing that you need to get right before you even make one move to get what you want and that is to trust yourself. Yes, trust yourself to be able to learn what you need to learn, to take risks to accomplish what others may think is foolhardy or impossible. Trust your own resolve to meet each and every challenge along the way.
Remember that YOU are the instrument of change, the mechanism that with all your capacity will see new things unfold as you put thought into action.
Anything is possible.....if you believe!!
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Saturday, August 21, 2010
PPP's Tip of the Week
12 New Rules For Your Money
by Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine courtesy of Yahoo!Finance
In this era of high unemployment, flat home prices and do-it-yourself retirement savings, some traditional rules of saving and investing are due for an overhaul.
1. Renting may beat buying.
Buying wins hands down when home prices are rising. But when they're flat or falling, it makes sense only if you get a great deal, your monthly payment won't exceed rent on a comparable home by much, and you'll own the home long enough to recoup your costs for both buying and later selling your home.
2. Consider a Roth.
Although the traditional rule of tax planning is never to pay a tax bill today that you can put off until tomorrow, Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k) plans stand that rule on its head. With a traditional IRA or work-based retirement plan, you get an upfront tax deduction, but every dime you withdraw in retirement is taxed at your ordinary income-tax rate. With a Roth, you forgo the upfront tax break, but all withdrawals — including decades of earnings — can be withdrawn tax-free. If income-tax rates rise, a pot of tax-free retirement income could be a financial lifesaver. To contribute to a Roth IRA, your income in 2010 can't top $120,000 if you're single or $177,000 if you're married. Anyone, regardless of income, can now convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, but you'll owe taxes on the entire amount. There are no income-eligibility limits to contribute to a Roth 401(k), but not all employers offer them.
3. Focus on dividends.
Invest in stocks that pay dividends. Your options should continue to expand — more companies are paying dividends, and many of the elite dividend-paying members of Standard & Poor's 500- stock index are upping their payouts to shareholders. True, dividends do not guarantee that a stock will be a winner. Some failed big banks used to pay high dividends, while highfliers Apple and Google don't pay a penny. But during periods of market volatility, when stock prices tend to bounce around in reaction to political and economic gyrations rather than accurately reflect corporate fundamentals, dividends can provide a predictable income stream. That's not going to make you rich, but it is a comfort when other traditional sources of income have slowed to a trickle.
4. Personalize your emergency fund.
The standard advice is to keep enough in savings to cover three to six months' worth of expenses. But a lot depends on the stability of your job and the predictability of your income. The greater the risk your income could drop, the larger your emergency fund should be. If you think your job is in jeopardy, aim to save at least a year's worth of expenses; ditto for individuals with erratic incomes, such as those who work on commission. Retirees should keep two to three years' worth of expenses in money-market funds, short-term CDs or other liquid investments. The goal is to keep enough cash on hand so that you don't have to sell stocks or rack up expensive credit-card debt if you have an emergency, but not so much that you miss out on the higher returns you can earn on longer-term investments.
To read the other 8 money rules, please click here.
Here's to your finances!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
by Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine courtesy of Yahoo!Finance
In this era of high unemployment, flat home prices and do-it-yourself retirement savings, some traditional rules of saving and investing are due for an overhaul.
1. Renting may beat buying.
Buying wins hands down when home prices are rising. But when they're flat or falling, it makes sense only if you get a great deal, your monthly payment won't exceed rent on a comparable home by much, and you'll own the home long enough to recoup your costs for both buying and later selling your home.
2. Consider a Roth.
Although the traditional rule of tax planning is never to pay a tax bill today that you can put off until tomorrow, Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k) plans stand that rule on its head. With a traditional IRA or work-based retirement plan, you get an upfront tax deduction, but every dime you withdraw in retirement is taxed at your ordinary income-tax rate. With a Roth, you forgo the upfront tax break, but all withdrawals — including decades of earnings — can be withdrawn tax-free. If income-tax rates rise, a pot of tax-free retirement income could be a financial lifesaver. To contribute to a Roth IRA, your income in 2010 can't top $120,000 if you're single or $177,000 if you're married. Anyone, regardless of income, can now convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, but you'll owe taxes on the entire amount. There are no income-eligibility limits to contribute to a Roth 401(k), but not all employers offer them.
3. Focus on dividends.
Invest in stocks that pay dividends. Your options should continue to expand — more companies are paying dividends, and many of the elite dividend-paying members of Standard & Poor's 500- stock index are upping their payouts to shareholders. True, dividends do not guarantee that a stock will be a winner. Some failed big banks used to pay high dividends, while highfliers Apple and Google don't pay a penny. But during periods of market volatility, when stock prices tend to bounce around in reaction to political and economic gyrations rather than accurately reflect corporate fundamentals, dividends can provide a predictable income stream. That's not going to make you rich, but it is a comfort when other traditional sources of income have slowed to a trickle.
4. Personalize your emergency fund.
The standard advice is to keep enough in savings to cover three to six months' worth of expenses. But a lot depends on the stability of your job and the predictability of your income. The greater the risk your income could drop, the larger your emergency fund should be. If you think your job is in jeopardy, aim to save at least a year's worth of expenses; ditto for individuals with erratic incomes, such as those who work on commission. Retirees should keep two to three years' worth of expenses in money-market funds, short-term CDs or other liquid investments. The goal is to keep enough cash on hand so that you don't have to sell stocks or rack up expensive credit-card debt if you have an emergency, but not so much that you miss out on the higher returns you can earn on longer-term investments.
To read the other 8 money rules, please click here.
Here's to your finances!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Friday, August 20, 2010
Top 5 Reasons I Am Deactivating My Facebook Account
Over the past year, while as a member of facebook, I’ve had the opportunity to reconnect with many people that I had lost touch with over the years. In this time, I have been painfully reminded of why I lost touch with them in the first place. Truth is, we have nothing in common but a graduating class in high school. I’ve also had a chance to see a side of some of my current acquaintances that reminds me why they have not graduated from the virtual “friend” zone to the real “friend” zone.
So, with these thoughts in mind, here are the top 5 reasons that I am deactivating my Facebook account:
1. Dear friend number 17, you and your girlfriend live together in the same house. Why do the two of you choose to argue via Facebook status updates? No one really cares and frankly, I am tired of my phone vibrating with each of the 29 daily verbal attacks that you make to one another. How about the two of you sit down at your kitchen table and have a private and adult conversation. Just a thought!
2. Dear Friend number 4, your married boyfriend’s wife is also on Facebook. Were you serious when you called to question how she found out about your “secret” relationship with him? I’m sure it was NOT the 3 page long verbal porn conversation the two of you had on Facebook.
3. Dear friend number 88, I realize that unemployment is at an all time high, but I’m sure you could probably get a job with “The Picture People”. Your photography skills are superb. How do I know this? Oh, just the 55 pictures that you take of yourself daily in your bedroom mirror. Just as info, please make the bed prior to taking photo number 56. It’s 3:00 PM and there’s no excuse for an unmade bed!
4. Dear friends number 35, 44 and 91, my relationship status clearly says married. Now that I think about it, so does yours. Yes, a date is out of the question.
5. Dear friend number 116, I have not helped you celebrate a birthday since age 13. While I realize that 35 is a monumental age, I will not be able to make it to the party. Sending an invitation every 4 hours will not change my mind. However, I am flattered that you thought of me along with your other 1,102 “friends”.
I realize that I could simply de-friend these friends, but I’m sure I can come up with many more reasons to do a full deactivation. It’s been a great ride, but I will gracefully exit stage right. Thanks for the memories!
Happy Friday,
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
So, with these thoughts in mind, here are the top 5 reasons that I am deactivating my Facebook account:
1. Dear friend number 17, you and your girlfriend live together in the same house. Why do the two of you choose to argue via Facebook status updates? No one really cares and frankly, I am tired of my phone vibrating with each of the 29 daily verbal attacks that you make to one another. How about the two of you sit down at your kitchen table and have a private and adult conversation. Just a thought!
2. Dear Friend number 4, your married boyfriend’s wife is also on Facebook. Were you serious when you called to question how she found out about your “secret” relationship with him? I’m sure it was NOT the 3 page long verbal porn conversation the two of you had on Facebook.
3. Dear friend number 88, I realize that unemployment is at an all time high, but I’m sure you could probably get a job with “The Picture People”. Your photography skills are superb. How do I know this? Oh, just the 55 pictures that you take of yourself daily in your bedroom mirror. Just as info, please make the bed prior to taking photo number 56. It’s 3:00 PM and there’s no excuse for an unmade bed!
4. Dear friends number 35, 44 and 91, my relationship status clearly says married. Now that I think about it, so does yours. Yes, a date is out of the question.
5. Dear friend number 116, I have not helped you celebrate a birthday since age 13. While I realize that 35 is a monumental age, I will not be able to make it to the party. Sending an invitation every 4 hours will not change my mind. However, I am flattered that you thought of me along with your other 1,102 “friends”.
I realize that I could simply de-friend these friends, but I’m sure I can come up with many more reasons to do a full deactivation. It’s been a great ride, but I will gracefully exit stage right. Thanks for the memories!
Happy Friday,
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Living Like We Are Bulletproof!
As I watch the news, I truly believe that a great portion of our youth have lost all respect for human life.
We have children that are texting while driving and killing individuals.
We have children that are drinking and driving that are killing individuals.
We have children that are shooting randomly in the streets with no regard for anyone.
We have children that are even choking themselves lifeless as a way of getting a feeling of euphoria.
I don't know about you, but I think that there are serious mental health issues within our neighborhoods.
Most people say that "this is about home training" or "where are the parents". When in actuality, theses childern were lost well before they made the evening news.
The antics that they do are not undiscovered issues that have finally surfaced, they are more than likely issues that families have always knew about but never knew how to deal with.
For instance, if a child constantly picks fights, beats up people, or curses you or others out. He does not wake up one day and make a decision to do theses things. He or she has had these tendency for sometime. Parents just chose to ignore it as a part of growing up.
The major problem we are facing now is that children are living wild and wreckless lives; like they are bulletproof. They feel the the right path in life is to be a menace to society and have everyone living in fear of them. Feeling that the only way to gain respect or popularity is to do things that make people talk about them.
The driving texter loves to move smoothly and swiftly across the keyboard at any given time to tell someone something that could wait. Never stopping to think that the last message that they sent could actually be their last.
The drunk driver that had to be the life of the party this weekend. So messed up that they could hardly see the road. Never thought that the last beer that they drank would actually be their last.
The gunman going on a rampage in the streets. Trying to earn street credit by shooting someone from a rival gang or even worse, an innocent child that has dreams and aspirations of future greatness.
Lastly, the children that are obsessed with feeling good. It is strange that they choose this way of life considered that things that feel good should never cause you harm or hurt.
So what will it take to deal with this epidemic? Will it take parents standing up and understanding what is really going on with their children? Will it take random acts of kindness from strangers spreading happiness and showing children that they are truly loved? Or will it take our men of the world to stand up and be the head of the household again. Taking the rightful place in the family of bringing order to the chaos?
Until we find a solution, unfortunately we run the risk of bringing more childern into the frontline of this "bulletproof" kind of lifestyle.
How can we save our children? How can we save our families?
This is not a alderman issue, a White House issue, a mayors issue, nor a governor's issue.
The time has come for us to put on the armor and prepare of battle! Let's take back our children while there is time.
The war we are fighting ends when you begin.
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
We have children that are texting while driving and killing individuals.
We have children that are drinking and driving that are killing individuals.
We have children that are shooting randomly in the streets with no regard for anyone.
We have children that are even choking themselves lifeless as a way of getting a feeling of euphoria.
I don't know about you, but I think that there are serious mental health issues within our neighborhoods.
Most people say that "this is about home training" or "where are the parents". When in actuality, theses childern were lost well before they made the evening news.
The antics that they do are not undiscovered issues that have finally surfaced, they are more than likely issues that families have always knew about but never knew how to deal with.
For instance, if a child constantly picks fights, beats up people, or curses you or others out. He does not wake up one day and make a decision to do theses things. He or she has had these tendency for sometime. Parents just chose to ignore it as a part of growing up.
The major problem we are facing now is that children are living wild and wreckless lives; like they are bulletproof. They feel the the right path in life is to be a menace to society and have everyone living in fear of them. Feeling that the only way to gain respect or popularity is to do things that make people talk about them.
The driving texter loves to move smoothly and swiftly across the keyboard at any given time to tell someone something that could wait. Never stopping to think that the last message that they sent could actually be their last.
The drunk driver that had to be the life of the party this weekend. So messed up that they could hardly see the road. Never thought that the last beer that they drank would actually be their last.
The gunman going on a rampage in the streets. Trying to earn street credit by shooting someone from a rival gang or even worse, an innocent child that has dreams and aspirations of future greatness.
Lastly, the children that are obsessed with feeling good. It is strange that they choose this way of life considered that things that feel good should never cause you harm or hurt.
So what will it take to deal with this epidemic? Will it take parents standing up and understanding what is really going on with their children? Will it take random acts of kindness from strangers spreading happiness and showing children that they are truly loved? Or will it take our men of the world to stand up and be the head of the household again. Taking the rightful place in the family of bringing order to the chaos?
Until we find a solution, unfortunately we run the risk of bringing more childern into the frontline of this "bulletproof" kind of lifestyle.
How can we save our children? How can we save our families?
This is not a alderman issue, a White House issue, a mayors issue, nor a governor's issue.
The time has come for us to put on the armor and prepare of battle! Let's take back our children while there is time.
The war we are fighting ends when you begin.
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Weight Loss Wednesday
4 Weekend Fat Traps and How to Avoid Them!
By Lucy Danziger, the Editor-in-Chief of SELF magazine courtesy of Yahoo!Health
Restaurant dinner dates. Sunday supper with the family. A nachos-supreme-enhanced happy hour. While weekends are full of fun, they're also full of food. (Hello, Japanese dinner on Friday nights, shrimp tempura included!) People take in up to 400 extra calories over Saturday and Sunday, according to a study in the Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, which can lead to a weight gain of 6 pounds over the course of a year. But with these smart, easy-to-implement strategies, you can savor your favorite leisure activities and stay slim.
Try these simple tweaks:
At the movies: You can emerge from the movie theater without having consumed 900 calories worth of buttered popcorn. Here's how: Before the previews, fuel up with a healthy snack such as almonds or pretzels so you aren't hungry and overcome with munchies when the flick starts—and the urge to dive into your pal's Goobers or greasy popcorn. Need a sweet treat? Twizzlers are a relatively low-calorie choice, and you can split them with a friend. Craving salt but don't like to share? Order a child's size popcorn (without the butter) and a Diet Coke (300 calories, 20 grams fat).
Sunday brunch: Go ahead, order the eggs Benedict. It sounds like a splurge, but the eggs are poached, so there's no oil; Canadian bacon is less fatty than its American cousin; and the English muffin has fewer calories than two slices of whole-wheat toast. Ask for the hollandaise sauce on the side and limit yourself to 2 tablespoons. Or try a made-to-order omelet (ask for two egg whites and one whole egg) with spinach, tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese, with a side of fruit salad and unbuttered rye toast (596 calories)—you'll get protein from the eggs as well as a dose of fiber from the spinach.
Saturday night dinner: A little research will keep you svelte—try logging onto the restaurant's website ahead of time and decide what to order, including your special drink. You'll be less likely to spontaneously place a gigantic order when the waiter arrives at your table. Order something you like, but limit your portions to keep calories to less than about 600. At the steakhouse, try a petite fillet with steamed vegetables and half a baked potato. Out for Mexican? Try two fish tacos and a few chips dipped in guacamole (ask the waiter to remove the bowl when you've had a handful). Japanese night? Go for edamame and 8 to 10 pieces of sushi. And rather than order a calorie-filled specialty cocktail, indulge in a 100-calorie drink, such as a small glass of wine or light beer, while you dine.
Happy hour: Aside from adding calories (a single margarita can top off at 400), drinking may make you more prone to storing fat in your middle, so rather than reward yourself after a tough week with 2-for-1 night, treat yourself to a Friday manicure, movie or other fun time—you'll feel pampered without packing on pounds. Want to meet pals at your local spot? Try choosing a bubbly toast, like Champagne or Prosecco, which you'll be inclined to drink more slowly than a noncarbonated drink. Research also shows that loud music makes you drink more, so if the sound system is thumping, put down the glass and start dancing!
********************************************************
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
By Lucy Danziger, the Editor-in-Chief of SELF magazine courtesy of Yahoo!Health
Restaurant dinner dates. Sunday supper with the family. A nachos-supreme-enhanced happy hour. While weekends are full of fun, they're also full of food. (Hello, Japanese dinner on Friday nights, shrimp tempura included!) People take in up to 400 extra calories over Saturday and Sunday, according to a study in the Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, which can lead to a weight gain of 6 pounds over the course of a year. But with these smart, easy-to-implement strategies, you can savor your favorite leisure activities and stay slim.
Try these simple tweaks:
At the movies: You can emerge from the movie theater without having consumed 900 calories worth of buttered popcorn. Here's how: Before the previews, fuel up with a healthy snack such as almonds or pretzels so you aren't hungry and overcome with munchies when the flick starts—and the urge to dive into your pal's Goobers or greasy popcorn. Need a sweet treat? Twizzlers are a relatively low-calorie choice, and you can split them with a friend. Craving salt but don't like to share? Order a child's size popcorn (without the butter) and a Diet Coke (300 calories, 20 grams fat).
Sunday brunch: Go ahead, order the eggs Benedict. It sounds like a splurge, but the eggs are poached, so there's no oil; Canadian bacon is less fatty than its American cousin; and the English muffin has fewer calories than two slices of whole-wheat toast. Ask for the hollandaise sauce on the side and limit yourself to 2 tablespoons. Or try a made-to-order omelet (ask for two egg whites and one whole egg) with spinach, tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese, with a side of fruit salad and unbuttered rye toast (596 calories)—you'll get protein from the eggs as well as a dose of fiber from the spinach.
Saturday night dinner: A little research will keep you svelte—try logging onto the restaurant's website ahead of time and decide what to order, including your special drink. You'll be less likely to spontaneously place a gigantic order when the waiter arrives at your table. Order something you like, but limit your portions to keep calories to less than about 600. At the steakhouse, try a petite fillet with steamed vegetables and half a baked potato. Out for Mexican? Try two fish tacos and a few chips dipped in guacamole (ask the waiter to remove the bowl when you've had a handful). Japanese night? Go for edamame and 8 to 10 pieces of sushi. And rather than order a calorie-filled specialty cocktail, indulge in a 100-calorie drink, such as a small glass of wine or light beer, while you dine.
Happy hour: Aside from adding calories (a single margarita can top off at 400), drinking may make you more prone to storing fat in your middle, so rather than reward yourself after a tough week with 2-for-1 night, treat yourself to a Friday manicure, movie or other fun time—you'll feel pampered without packing on pounds. Want to meet pals at your local spot? Try choosing a bubbly toast, like Champagne or Prosecco, which you'll be inclined to drink more slowly than a noncarbonated drink. Research also shows that loud music makes you drink more, so if the sound system is thumping, put down the glass and start dancing!
********************************************************
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Hobo’s Question of the Day
I sometimes believe that if I win the lottery, all my perceived problems would disappear. But recently, I started wondering if the old saying “with more money, comes more problems” holds any truth.
The reason I have been asking this question is related to the recent events evolving American Idol winner, Fantasia Barrino who was recently hospitalized as a results of an alleged suicide attempt. Mrs. Barrino was the winner of “Idol” in 2004; she later put out a successful record, an autobiography, overcame illiteracy, and played the lead role in the Broadway production of The Color Purple.
Despite all the success and triumph, many problems also followed after her win on American Idol. She soon found herself in financial trouble, cancellation of shows as a result of illnesses, and the recent incident involving an affair that many believe resulted in her nearly overdosing on aspirin and sleeping pills.
So; my question is just how much better or worse does money affect a person. And is it the money, the chances, the person or is money only showing a different side of a person that is sometimes best left unseen.
Hobo Bag
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women
The reason I have been asking this question is related to the recent events evolving American Idol winner, Fantasia Barrino who was recently hospitalized as a results of an alleged suicide attempt. Mrs. Barrino was the winner of “Idol” in 2004; she later put out a successful record, an autobiography, overcame illiteracy, and played the lead role in the Broadway production of The Color Purple.
Despite all the success and triumph, many problems also followed after her win on American Idol. She soon found herself in financial trouble, cancellation of shows as a result of illnesses, and the recent incident involving an affair that many believe resulted in her nearly overdosing on aspirin and sleeping pills.
So; my question is just how much better or worse does money affect a person. And is it the money, the chances, the person or is money only showing a different side of a person that is sometimes best left unseen.
Hobo Bag
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women
Monday, August 16, 2010
Love the Verb
When we speak of love it is always in the very emotional sense of the word. Love to many of us is about how someone makes us feel or how we feel about someone.
What if we took the emotion out of it and looked at it as a verb? A verb is an action not an emotion.
I have recently started to view love in this manner. True that there are feelings associated with the word but when paired with an action it is far more powerful.
We have always been taught that we should love our enemies as we love ourselves. This type of love can be readily achievable if we look at it from an action stand point. Loving our children, spouses and significant others would seem less stressful if we chose to love by our actions or agape love.
If we viewed love in the same sense in which God told us to love I think life could be easier for all parties involved. We would accept people as they are versus how we feel they should love us. In other words...maybe when people love us unlike we expect, they are actually only loving us the way they know how.
Think about all your love relationships and reflect on if the are based on how someone makes you feel versus how that person actually treats you.
Remember actions speak louder than words!
Much Love
Chanel
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
What if we took the emotion out of it and looked at it as a verb? A verb is an action not an emotion.
I have recently started to view love in this manner. True that there are feelings associated with the word but when paired with an action it is far more powerful.
We have always been taught that we should love our enemies as we love ourselves. This type of love can be readily achievable if we look at it from an action stand point. Loving our children, spouses and significant others would seem less stressful if we chose to love by our actions or agape love.
If we viewed love in the same sense in which God told us to love I think life could be easier for all parties involved. We would accept people as they are versus how we feel they should love us. In other words...maybe when people love us unlike we expect, they are actually only loving us the way they know how.
Think about all your love relationships and reflect on if the are based on how someone makes you feel versus how that person actually treats you.
Remember actions speak louder than words!
Much Love
Chanel
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Saint Paul National Poetry Slam 2010
I experienced a poetry slam for the first time last weekend. I've been to spoken word before but this is a little different; I'm now a fan!!
This is the complete poem performed by Sierra DeMulder of St. Paul's Soap Boxing slam poetry team at the semifinals of the National Poetry Slam, courtesy of YouTube.
The poem is being told from the perspective of Jeffery Dahmer's mother......it's deep!!!!
Needless to say, the St. Paul Soap Boxing team were the winners!
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
This is the complete poem performed by Sierra DeMulder of St. Paul's Soap Boxing slam poetry team at the semifinals of the National Poetry Slam, courtesy of YouTube.
The poem is being told from the perspective of Jeffery Dahmer's mother......it's deep!!!!
Needless to say, the St. Paul Soap Boxing team were the winners!
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Saturday, August 14, 2010
PPP's Tip of the Week
Don't Let Money Problems Ruin Your Marriage!
By Good Housekeeping courtesy of Yahoo! Shine
There’s no right way for married couples to manage their money. But there are plenty of wrong ways. “Financial issues are the primary reason for 90 percent of divorce cases I handle,” says John Thyden, a prominent Washington, D.C., divorce attorney. “But it isn’t necessarily the amount of money a couple has that tends to trip them up. It’s the differences in their spending habits and especially their lack of communication.” Here are some issues to watch out for. And while you're at it, try adopting these habits of the happiest couples.
1. Relationship Neglect
Pssst...sometimes arguments about money are actually about not paying enough attention to your marriage (do this to stop having the same fight), rather than your financial situation. When spouses feel neglected, they may resort to spending cash on items they can't afford or bring up their partner's buying habits as a way to retaliate for deeper issues. Examine the root of your fights and determine whether your fiscal concerns are actually a by-product of hurt feelings. Then, if necessary, get started on a marriage makeover.
2. Love Is Blind
At the beginning of a relationship, money often isn't an issue. Love can be intoxicating, and some spouses express their emotions by lavishing their partner with exorbitant spending sprees, jetting off to exotic vacations, and other costly pursuits (don't make these money mistakes). Then reality sets in, and couples have to worry about their rent or mortgage, kids and living expenses. A financial planner can help you get your finances back on track and develop a budget that you can stick to. Plus, set out some financial rules to follow as a couple.
3. When Women Are the Breadwinners
Women are the breadwinners in one out of three dual-income families today. Although earning more money can be beneficial, it also challenges traditional gender roles, so that wives may feel guilty about putting less time into mom duties while husbands may feel like they've failed somehow. Set up equal spending rights with your spouse so that you're both on the same page.
4. Keeping Up with the Joneses
It can be easy for couples to become envious of other couples' spending habits and feel like they need to live beyond their means just to keep up. However, this can lead to debt and put a significant amount of stress on a marriage. Do some digging with your spouse and work together to diminish these insecurities.
5. A Lack of Open Communication
Not knowing exactly where your money is going each month can spark resentment. Have an honest conversation with your partner where you both break down the spending in your household. Discuss your priorities and decide together if you need to cut back or add to a specific category.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
By Good Housekeeping courtesy of Yahoo! Shine
There’s no right way for married couples to manage their money. But there are plenty of wrong ways. “Financial issues are the primary reason for 90 percent of divorce cases I handle,” says John Thyden, a prominent Washington, D.C., divorce attorney. “But it isn’t necessarily the amount of money a couple has that tends to trip them up. It’s the differences in their spending habits and especially their lack of communication.” Here are some issues to watch out for. And while you're at it, try adopting these habits of the happiest couples.
1. Relationship Neglect
Pssst...sometimes arguments about money are actually about not paying enough attention to your marriage (do this to stop having the same fight), rather than your financial situation. When spouses feel neglected, they may resort to spending cash on items they can't afford or bring up their partner's buying habits as a way to retaliate for deeper issues. Examine the root of your fights and determine whether your fiscal concerns are actually a by-product of hurt feelings. Then, if necessary, get started on a marriage makeover.
2. Love Is Blind
At the beginning of a relationship, money often isn't an issue. Love can be intoxicating, and some spouses express their emotions by lavishing their partner with exorbitant spending sprees, jetting off to exotic vacations, and other costly pursuits (don't make these money mistakes). Then reality sets in, and couples have to worry about their rent or mortgage, kids and living expenses. A financial planner can help you get your finances back on track and develop a budget that you can stick to. Plus, set out some financial rules to follow as a couple.
3. When Women Are the Breadwinners
Women are the breadwinners in one out of three dual-income families today. Although earning more money can be beneficial, it also challenges traditional gender roles, so that wives may feel guilty about putting less time into mom duties while husbands may feel like they've failed somehow. Set up equal spending rights with your spouse so that you're both on the same page.
4. Keeping Up with the Joneses
It can be easy for couples to become envious of other couples' spending habits and feel like they need to live beyond their means just to keep up. However, this can lead to debt and put a significant amount of stress on a marriage. Do some digging with your spouse and work together to diminish these insecurities.
5. A Lack of Open Communication
Not knowing exactly where your money is going each month can spark resentment. Have an honest conversation with your partner where you both break down the spending in your household. Discuss your priorities and decide together if you need to cut back or add to a specific category.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Friday, August 13, 2010
Chicago’s Best Rooftop Bars
I promised myself that if I lost 60 pounds by my birthday (early December), that I would throw me and my husband a birthday dinner/party. I know that it sounds silly, but these days my motivation has to be forced from every angel. And yes, my husband’s birthday is also in early December.
I am a planner, so I have been searching for restaurants and bars in downtown Chicago that have amazing rooftop bars. December in Chicago can be brutal, so heated and enclosed rooftop bars are key.
Below is a list of places that I have visited so far. If you have been to any of these places and have an opinion, please share. I am interested in your experience.
ROOF @ THE WIT HOTEL
201 N. State Street, Chicago
312-239-9501
NoMI GARDEN @ PARK HYATT HOTEL
800 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago
312-239-4030
THE TERRACE AT TRUMP @ TRUMP HOTEL CHICAGO
401 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago
312-588-8600
SHANGHAI TERRACE @ THE PENINSULA HOTEL
108 E. Superior Street, Chicago
312-573-6744
**Favorite so far**
C-VIEW @ AFFINIA HOTEL
166 E. Superior Street, Chicago
312-523-0923
VERTIGO SKY @ DANA HOTEL
2 W. Erie Street
312-202-6060
**Also a favorite, the cocktails and view are both AMAZING**
If there are any others that you think I should check out, please let me know. I encourage you to try any, or ALL of these amazing places while visiting the beautiful city of Chicago!
Happy Friday,
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
I am a planner, so I have been searching for restaurants and bars in downtown Chicago that have amazing rooftop bars. December in Chicago can be brutal, so heated and enclosed rooftop bars are key.
Below is a list of places that I have visited so far. If you have been to any of these places and have an opinion, please share. I am interested in your experience.
ROOF @ THE WIT HOTEL
201 N. State Street, Chicago
312-239-9501
NoMI GARDEN @ PARK HYATT HOTEL
800 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago
312-239-4030
THE TERRACE AT TRUMP @ TRUMP HOTEL CHICAGO
401 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago
312-588-8600
SHANGHAI TERRACE @ THE PENINSULA HOTEL
108 E. Superior Street, Chicago
312-573-6744
**Favorite so far**
C-VIEW @ AFFINIA HOTEL
166 E. Superior Street, Chicago
312-523-0923
VERTIGO SKY @ DANA HOTEL
2 W. Erie Street
312-202-6060
**Also a favorite, the cocktails and view are both AMAZING**
If there are any others that you think I should check out, please let me know. I encourage you to try any, or ALL of these amazing places while visiting the beautiful city of Chicago!
Happy Friday,
Clutch
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Bringing Out the Best In Me
Bringing out the best in me will mean realizing the worst in me.
Changing the behaviors that I can and understanding the behaviors that I can not.
Bringing out the best in me will allow me to grow beyond my thoughts.
Realizing that dreams do come true and understanding that there will be obstacles along the way.
Bringing out the best in me brings my life full circle.
Taking me to places I have never been to do things that I never thought that I would.
Bringing out the best in me is a process.
Change is constant and evolution is always the ultimate goal.
Are you at your best? Or is there room for change?
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Changing the behaviors that I can and understanding the behaviors that I can not.
Bringing out the best in me will allow me to grow beyond my thoughts.
Realizing that dreams do come true and understanding that there will be obstacles along the way.
Bringing out the best in me brings my life full circle.
Taking me to places I have never been to do things that I never thought that I would.
Bringing out the best in me is a process.
Change is constant and evolution is always the ultimate goal.
Are you at your best? Or is there room for change?
Mary Jane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Weight Loss Wednesday
It's another Wednesday and below is another fitness tip that is a PPP fav!
I've been known to mix up my workout routines mainly because I get bored easily but also because I know it's important to shock our bodies to obtain maximum results. Mixing it up is a good thing, remember variety is the spice of life!!
Your Gym Workout Routine - (To read full article, click on the title)
By Marc David - (To learn more about the author, click on his name)
"The best routine I've ever done, is the one I haven't done." Think about that for just a minute. Let it settle in.
If you've been doing the same routine day in and day out, year after year, wonder why you aren't getting the gains you wanted... this statement should really hit home.
For starters, the more variety you can incorporate into your routines, even the smallest changes, will help:
* to prevent injury
* to avoid injury
* add to muscle confusion principles
* avoid boredom
* reduces overtraining
For all these reasons (and this list isn't even near complete), doing something as simple as adding variety to your routine will help keep your workouts interesting and your body growing.
Imagine this for a second will you? I've been working out for 16 years. I've tried many routines. Some I liked, others I hated. But I was searching for the perfect routine. One I liked that I could just keep doing over and over and progressing.
Then it hit me!
When I found a routine I liked and stuck with it for a long period of time (2 months or more) I noticed something:
* Boredom sets in
* Repetitive injuries would occur more frequently
* My progress slowed then stopped
There's no golden routine! Too many people are set in their ways. The minute they find something they like, that's it. Done deal. They don't change. And after some months, they really don't change. Frustration sets in, they wonder why and they hit plateaus.
But let's suppose you were like me and you just keep trying new programs and new routines. Would it be possible not to ever hit a plateau again?
It just might be! And that should excite you. The more variety in exercises, tempos, repetition speeds you can create, the more challenging it is to you and the more progressive overload you can deliver to your body. How does your body respond? It grows. It cannot adapt because there's nothing to adapt to.
Here's a little test:
1- Go to your gym
2- Pick a person out you see often
3- Observe them for as long as possible
4- Do they look different? (Can you see changes)
5- Are they doing the same things over and over?
(I see people at my gym that I know their routine. They do the same things every time I see them without fail. They look the same since they joined over 5 years ago). Do you qualify as one of these people?
Don't worry, it's easy to avoid this if you simply follow this single tip:
* Learn as many exercise variations as you possibly can *
Why is this so important? Because if you know 300 ways to workout your legs, you will never have to repeat a workout and you will never adapt. You will not get bored as you will have many ways to workout a muscle group. Your body will be challenged. Your mind will be challenged as well.
How can you do this? Educate yourself with as many sources as you can. Of course you can repeat exercises. My point is...
"The best routine I've ever done, is the one I haven't done."
Keep your routines interesting and you too can avoid the plateau that everybody else is going to be talking about!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
I've been known to mix up my workout routines mainly because I get bored easily but also because I know it's important to shock our bodies to obtain maximum results. Mixing it up is a good thing, remember variety is the spice of life!!
Your Gym Workout Routine - (To read full article, click on the title)
By Marc David - (To learn more about the author, click on his name)
"The best routine I've ever done, is the one I haven't done." Think about that for just a minute. Let it settle in.
If you've been doing the same routine day in and day out, year after year, wonder why you aren't getting the gains you wanted... this statement should really hit home.
For starters, the more variety you can incorporate into your routines, even the smallest changes, will help:
* to prevent injury
* to avoid injury
* add to muscle confusion principles
* avoid boredom
* reduces overtraining
For all these reasons (and this list isn't even near complete), doing something as simple as adding variety to your routine will help keep your workouts interesting and your body growing.
Imagine this for a second will you? I've been working out for 16 years. I've tried many routines. Some I liked, others I hated. But I was searching for the perfect routine. One I liked that I could just keep doing over and over and progressing.
Then it hit me!
When I found a routine I liked and stuck with it for a long period of time (2 months or more) I noticed something:
* Boredom sets in
* Repetitive injuries would occur more frequently
* My progress slowed then stopped
There's no golden routine! Too many people are set in their ways. The minute they find something they like, that's it. Done deal. They don't change. And after some months, they really don't change. Frustration sets in, they wonder why and they hit plateaus.
But let's suppose you were like me and you just keep trying new programs and new routines. Would it be possible not to ever hit a plateau again?
It just might be! And that should excite you. The more variety in exercises, tempos, repetition speeds you can create, the more challenging it is to you and the more progressive overload you can deliver to your body. How does your body respond? It grows. It cannot adapt because there's nothing to adapt to.
Here's a little test:
1- Go to your gym
2- Pick a person out you see often
3- Observe them for as long as possible
4- Do they look different? (Can you see changes)
5- Are they doing the same things over and over?
(I see people at my gym that I know their routine. They do the same things every time I see them without fail. They look the same since they joined over 5 years ago). Do you qualify as one of these people?
Don't worry, it's easy to avoid this if you simply follow this single tip:
* Learn as many exercise variations as you possibly can *
Why is this so important? Because if you know 300 ways to workout your legs, you will never have to repeat a workout and you will never adapt. You will not get bored as you will have many ways to workout a muscle group. Your body will be challenged. Your mind will be challenged as well.
How can you do this? Educate yourself with as many sources as you can. Of course you can repeat exercises. My point is...
"The best routine I've ever done, is the one I haven't done."
Keep your routines interesting and you too can avoid the plateau that everybody else is going to be talking about!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's to your health!!
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Another Haiti Surprise – 2010
Last year, 2009, after Project Eden, an organization which seeks to eradicate poverty in the world one community at a time, returned from Haiti, I wrote about the wonderful surprising beauty there. I was not emotionally prepared for it and had the privilege of witnessing it again on the second trip to Haiti last month, July 2010. From July 27th through July 29th, Project Eden conducted training in entrepreneurship and construction, and provided business counseling to business owners. On July 30th we spoke words of empowerment to youth. There was also an executive team which was involved in meetings and other activities related to land development. All of this training and pouring out was wrapped in the Word of God because we desire to combine our initiatives with spiritual renewal.
I was blessed to take part in the entrepreneurship sessions, entitled Be All You Can Dream. These sessions included a spiritual foundation on what the Word has to say about business, accounting principles, and simulation of starting a business in a mall. The participants were divided into teams and it was on! Activities included coming up with a business idea and name, purchasing space in the mall, purchasing “construction” materials, writing and performing in a commercial, and also purchasing the time to film the commercial. The participants were very creative and their thought process, attention to detail, and passion were evident.
On the morning of the last day of the competition, the facilitating team and participants viewed all of the commercials, and although nearly all were not in English, for the most part their messages were clear. During the walk-through of the mall for each business, several teams stepped up their game and brought in delicious product samples. Others welcomed and addressed us as if we were actually walking into their establishment and not just walking on masking tape, and construction paper. The competition was fierce, but the facilitating team was able to single out four teams as top performers and present them with certificates.
On the afternoon of the last day, all the participants in Be All You Can Dream, One-on-One Business Consulting and Construction training gathered and were presented with certificates of completion. Translators were also given certificates of appreciation. Education and training, which is not free in Haiti, is highly esteemed. The room was charged with the sense of accomplishment, love, and appreciation. Based on our experience last year, I knew that there was a chance that we would receive gifts. This year, we received beautiful individually wrapped gifts, words of appreciation, blessings and prayers, and a beautiful acapella version of “Oh, I Love You Jesus”. Sounds good, right? Well imagine my surprise after returning safely home, as I began to look through the slideshow on the Project Eden blog, when I saw picture after picture after picture of hand-written signs from the various teams. It touched my heart and brought tears as I received this unexpected gift. The English is broken, but like the commercials, their messages are clear. See for yourself……
For a complete overview of the trip which includes daily posts, interviews and more pictures check out the Project Eden blog at www.theprojecteden.blogspot.com.
Kitten Heels
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
I was blessed to take part in the entrepreneurship sessions, entitled Be All You Can Dream. These sessions included a spiritual foundation on what the Word has to say about business, accounting principles, and simulation of starting a business in a mall. The participants were divided into teams and it was on! Activities included coming up with a business idea and name, purchasing space in the mall, purchasing “construction” materials, writing and performing in a commercial, and also purchasing the time to film the commercial. The participants were very creative and their thought process, attention to detail, and passion were evident.
On the morning of the last day of the competition, the facilitating team and participants viewed all of the commercials, and although nearly all were not in English, for the most part their messages were clear. During the walk-through of the mall for each business, several teams stepped up their game and brought in delicious product samples. Others welcomed and addressed us as if we were actually walking into their establishment and not just walking on masking tape, and construction paper. The competition was fierce, but the facilitating team was able to single out four teams as top performers and present them with certificates.
On the afternoon of the last day, all the participants in Be All You Can Dream, One-on-One Business Consulting and Construction training gathered and were presented with certificates of completion. Translators were also given certificates of appreciation. Education and training, which is not free in Haiti, is highly esteemed. The room was charged with the sense of accomplishment, love, and appreciation. Based on our experience last year, I knew that there was a chance that we would receive gifts. This year, we received beautiful individually wrapped gifts, words of appreciation, blessings and prayers, and a beautiful acapella version of “Oh, I Love You Jesus”. Sounds good, right? Well imagine my surprise after returning safely home, as I began to look through the slideshow on the Project Eden blog, when I saw picture after picture after picture of hand-written signs from the various teams. It touched my heart and brought tears as I received this unexpected gift. The English is broken, but like the commercials, their messages are clear. See for yourself……
For a complete overview of the trip which includes daily posts, interviews and more pictures check out the Project Eden blog at www.theprojecteden.blogspot.com.
Kitten Heels
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Monday, August 9, 2010
Oak Park Eagles - 12 Year Old Baseball Team
CONGRATULATIONS to my nephew Cameron Moore and his Pony Baseball Team, the Oak Park Eagles as they compete in Salinas, California for the Pony World Series (12 Year Olds).
Attached is an email with details about Cameron’s trip to the World Series. Specifically, the email discusses a website that allows you to post well wishes to the players, follow the team’s performance via a BLOG and watch games from the comfort of your home. The website address is:
www.leaguelineup.com/oakparkeagles
I am one proud Auntie!!
Love and Peace,
Sandals
Real Live, Real Talk, Real Women
Attached is an email with details about Cameron’s trip to the World Series. Specifically, the email discusses a website that allows you to post well wishes to the players, follow the team’s performance via a BLOG and watch games from the comfort of your home. The website address is:
www.leaguelineup.com/oakparkeagles
I am one proud Auntie!!
Love and Peace,
Sandals
Real Live, Real Talk, Real Women
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
PPP's Tip of the Week
Are you throwing money away? I know I'm guilty of paying ATM fees on occasion which is just like throwing money away! Well the following article courtesy of Yahoo!Finance and Kiplinger.com talks about expenses that we should get rid of which will ultimately lead to extra $$ in our bank accounts and there's nothing wrong with that!!
10 Expenses You Don't Need
by Jeffrey R. Kosnett
1. Parking
Confession: I hate to pay for parking. Unless it's as hot as Iraq or raining cats and dogs, I will do whatever it takes to find a legal space on the street, preferably free. And I'm good at it. It mainly takes faith, patience and experience. Recently, I found a spot on Chicago's North Avenue next to the famous Second City comedy club on a Saturday night, saving the $17 the building's garage demanded -- and the half-hour wait to climb the ramp after the show. I've done these kinds of things for years.
2. Banking Fees of All Sorts
Banking fees are generally small -- a couple dollars here, a couple dollars there -- but they can add up to hundreds throughout the year if you're not careful. Don't pay money just to manage your money. You can take easy steps to avoid these fees:
• Overdraft fees. Sign up for low-balance alerts via e-mail, and link your checking account to your savings account to move money as necessary to avoid $35 fees for insufficient funds.
• Checks and postage. Pay your bills electronically instead. You'll also avoid any late fees and black marks on your record if the postal service loses your payment.
• ATM fees. Know where your own bank's ATMs are located, even in other states, so you can save $3 every time you get cash out of the wall. Or consider switching to a bank that offers free ATM usage regardless of which bank's ATM you tap.
• Coin-counting commissions. Save the 5% it can cost you to cash in your nickels and quarters at the supermarket. Coin counting is gratis at hundreds of TD Bank branches in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Florida, whether or not you have an account. (Just pray the machine, called Penny Arcade, isn't down for service. That seems to happen a lot.)
3. Basic Investing Advice
There are plenty of wise reasons to engage a financial planner or adviser -- but there are also pointless ones. If all you want is help choosing mutual funds, especially if your choices are basic index funds inside a retirement plan, it's silly to fork over as much as 1.5% of your savings each year for someone to run a common software program to do this for you. You can arrange your money among different investments yourself or build a simple portfolio with little effort. Then rebalance every quarter or six months to restore your weightings.
By all means, get an excellent estate planner or an accountant when it's time to think about taxes and bequests. But you don't need help for everything.
4. Help Applying for Financial Aid
Commercial sites like FAFSA.com will help you complete and submit the important application for student aid for $79.99. But at the U.S. Department of Education's site, http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=10t3duqs0/**http%3A/www.fafsa.ed.gov/, you can fill out the application for free -- with all sorts of guidance on how to assemble the proper personal information.
5. Pet Care
Pet-sitting is big business these days, with brand names, franchises, uniforms, logos, and even lobbyists and consultants. But if your little guys are healthy, you can save the $50-a-day boarding fee while you're on vacation by asking a responsible neighbor, friend or family member to feed, walk (if needed) and hang out for a bit with your cats and dogs -- provided you volunteer to do the same when they're away. Make sure your helper knows who your vet is, and, obviously, don't be so informal if your animals have health problems that mean you should board them with the doctor.
6. Insurance on Rental Cars
The rental-car clerk will offer you a collision-damage waiver (sometimes called a loss-damage waiver), which can cost $10 to $20 per day. The CDW shields you if the rental car is damaged or stolen. But as long as the rental is for personal use and you have collision coverage in your own auto-insurance policy, you're covered without the CDW (with the same deductibles that apply to your own car). Your credit-card benefits supplement your auto coverage. Most cards will pick up your deductible, and premium cards offer beefier coverage. Keep in mind that credit-card protection doesn't include liability. And if you've dropped comprehensive or collision coverage on your policy, the rental car will not be covered if it is stolen or damaged in an accident.
7. Credit Reports
Don't fall for sites that offer "free" credit reports, which often end up enrolling you in expensive credit-monitoring programs that you usually don't need. You can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion) once every 12 months at http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=117p2cd63/**http%3A/www.annualcreditreport.com/. It's a good idea to stagger your reports -- getting a free one from each bureau every four months -- to keep an eye on the status of your credit and spot potential ID theft throughout the year.
8. Warranties
The other day I bought the snazziest new Samsung smart phone from T-Mobile at the fair price of $249. The sales rep couldn't let me go, however, without asking me to pay $125 more for insurance against me dropping the unit or otherwise ruining it. The cheaper electronics get, the less these warranties make sense. Same is true with appliances. Now, if I could insure the suits I take to the dry cleaners -- or the luggage the airlines throw around -- we might have something to talk about.
9. Shipping for Online Shopping
At http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=1116hjgcq/**http%3A/www.freeshipping.org/, you can find coupons and codes to secure free (or deeply discounted) mailing or delivery from hundreds of retailers. Some of these are constant offers as long as you make a minimum order. Others are occasional deals with a limited life. And if there's no cost for mailing, you can't get hit with that mysterious charge for "handling," right?
10. Water
There are times you'll pay anything for a cold bottle of premium H2O. If you're driving through the desert, riding your bicycle on a hot day or dealing with grimy yellow stuff in your pipes, price is no object. Once while on vacation in Florida, a construction crew accidentally cut the water lines to our residence. Off to Wal-Mart it was -- or we would've been unable to cook, wash or even make coffee for 12 hours. But why pay for bottled water all the time? Is it actually safer? Bottled-water makers aren't required to test their water or make their test results public. And few brands reveal important details about the source of their water and what it contains. Heck, about 25% of bottled water actually comes from the same municipal sources that deliver water to your home.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
10 Expenses You Don't Need
by Jeffrey R. Kosnett
1. Parking
Confession: I hate to pay for parking. Unless it's as hot as Iraq or raining cats and dogs, I will do whatever it takes to find a legal space on the street, preferably free. And I'm good at it. It mainly takes faith, patience and experience. Recently, I found a spot on Chicago's North Avenue next to the famous Second City comedy club on a Saturday night, saving the $17 the building's garage demanded -- and the half-hour wait to climb the ramp after the show. I've done these kinds of things for years.
2. Banking Fees of All Sorts
Banking fees are generally small -- a couple dollars here, a couple dollars there -- but they can add up to hundreds throughout the year if you're not careful. Don't pay money just to manage your money. You can take easy steps to avoid these fees:
• Overdraft fees. Sign up for low-balance alerts via e-mail, and link your checking account to your savings account to move money as necessary to avoid $35 fees for insufficient funds.
• Checks and postage. Pay your bills electronically instead. You'll also avoid any late fees and black marks on your record if the postal service loses your payment.
• ATM fees. Know where your own bank's ATMs are located, even in other states, so you can save $3 every time you get cash out of the wall. Or consider switching to a bank that offers free ATM usage regardless of which bank's ATM you tap.
• Coin-counting commissions. Save the 5% it can cost you to cash in your nickels and quarters at the supermarket. Coin counting is gratis at hundreds of TD Bank branches in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Florida, whether or not you have an account. (Just pray the machine, called Penny Arcade, isn't down for service. That seems to happen a lot.)
3. Basic Investing Advice
There are plenty of wise reasons to engage a financial planner or adviser -- but there are also pointless ones. If all you want is help choosing mutual funds, especially if your choices are basic index funds inside a retirement plan, it's silly to fork over as much as 1.5% of your savings each year for someone to run a common software program to do this for you. You can arrange your money among different investments yourself or build a simple portfolio with little effort. Then rebalance every quarter or six months to restore your weightings.
By all means, get an excellent estate planner or an accountant when it's time to think about taxes and bequests. But you don't need help for everything.
4. Help Applying for Financial Aid
Commercial sites like FAFSA.com will help you complete and submit the important application for student aid for $79.99. But at the U.S. Department of Education's site, http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=10t3duqs0/**http%3A/www.fafsa.ed.gov/, you can fill out the application for free -- with all sorts of guidance on how to assemble the proper personal information.
5. Pet Care
Pet-sitting is big business these days, with brand names, franchises, uniforms, logos, and even lobbyists and consultants. But if your little guys are healthy, you can save the $50-a-day boarding fee while you're on vacation by asking a responsible neighbor, friend or family member to feed, walk (if needed) and hang out for a bit with your cats and dogs -- provided you volunteer to do the same when they're away. Make sure your helper knows who your vet is, and, obviously, don't be so informal if your animals have health problems that mean you should board them with the doctor.
6. Insurance on Rental Cars
The rental-car clerk will offer you a collision-damage waiver (sometimes called a loss-damage waiver), which can cost $10 to $20 per day. The CDW shields you if the rental car is damaged or stolen. But as long as the rental is for personal use and you have collision coverage in your own auto-insurance policy, you're covered without the CDW (with the same deductibles that apply to your own car). Your credit-card benefits supplement your auto coverage. Most cards will pick up your deductible, and premium cards offer beefier coverage. Keep in mind that credit-card protection doesn't include liability. And if you've dropped comprehensive or collision coverage on your policy, the rental car will not be covered if it is stolen or damaged in an accident.
7. Credit Reports
Don't fall for sites that offer "free" credit reports, which often end up enrolling you in expensive credit-monitoring programs that you usually don't need. You can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion) once every 12 months at http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=117p2cd63/**http%3A/www.annualcreditreport.com/. It's a good idea to stagger your reports -- getting a free one from each bureau every four months -- to keep an eye on the status of your credit and spot potential ID theft throughout the year.
8. Warranties
The other day I bought the snazziest new Samsung smart phone from T-Mobile at the fair price of $249. The sales rep couldn't let me go, however, without asking me to pay $125 more for insurance against me dropping the unit or otherwise ruining it. The cheaper electronics get, the less these warranties make sense. Same is true with appliances. Now, if I could insure the suits I take to the dry cleaners -- or the luggage the airlines throw around -- we might have something to talk about.
9. Shipping for Online Shopping
At http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/SIG=1116hjgcq/**http%3A/www.freeshipping.org/, you can find coupons and codes to secure free (or deeply discounted) mailing or delivery from hundreds of retailers. Some of these are constant offers as long as you make a minimum order. Others are occasional deals with a limited life. And if there's no cost for mailing, you can't get hit with that mysterious charge for "handling," right?
10. Water
There are times you'll pay anything for a cold bottle of premium H2O. If you're driving through the desert, riding your bicycle on a hot day or dealing with grimy yellow stuff in your pipes, price is no object. Once while on vacation in Florida, a construction crew accidentally cut the water lines to our residence. Off to Wal-Mart it was -- or we would've been unable to cook, wash or even make coffee for 12 hours. But why pay for bottled water all the time? Is it actually safer? Bottled-water makers aren't required to test their water or make their test results public. And few brands reveal important details about the source of their water and what it contains. Heck, about 25% of bottled water actually comes from the same municipal sources that deliver water to your home.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Friday, August 6, 2010
Photography
I have recently acquired a new love for photography. My favorite images to capture are those of children, especially babies. They are so effortlessly beautiful and innocent. They are a true representation of the carefree lifestyle that I yearn to revisit.
However, since I am truly a novice, I welcome any recommendations on cameras and lenses. I am also interested in knowing of those beautiful hidden locations within the Chicagoland area that may make for a beautiful backdrop for my new photos. Also, has anyone taken photography classes that they would recommend?
Welcoming your advice as I fuel my new passion.
Happy Friday,
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
However, since I am truly a novice, I welcome any recommendations on cameras and lenses. I am also interested in knowing of those beautiful hidden locations within the Chicagoland area that may make for a beautiful backdrop for my new photos. Also, has anyone taken photography classes that they would recommend?
Welcoming your advice as I fuel my new passion.
Happy Friday,
Real Life. Real Talk. Real Women.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Giving Always Makes Room for More
This past week, I have been given the opportunity to give some things away.
As I look around, I have held on to items that once belonged to my children as infants. I said I would not have more so I am not sure why I kept holding on.
As I started to dig deeper, I began to realize that I was holding onto my children’s infancy. I think one reason why is because I struggled with conceiving and once they finally arrived, I did not want to let them grow up.
I know it seems weird (especially when they are growing before my eyes), but to look back at those little dresses and shirts made me nostalgic and remember when they first came home.
This past week, I had a revelation. Not by my own thoughts, but by the thoughts of my four year old daughter.
That very week, I packed up a big bag of baby wear and donated it to Project Eden(a not for profit organization that is dedicated to the rebuilding of Haiti).
I felt as though I was cleansed and could now see clearly.
My daughter showed me by giving away something that I held on to allowed me to be free from living in the past and to look forward to the future.
Life is about moving forward.
Giving always makes room for more!
MaryJane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
As I look around, I have held on to items that once belonged to my children as infants. I said I would not have more so I am not sure why I kept holding on.
As I started to dig deeper, I began to realize that I was holding onto my children’s infancy. I think one reason why is because I struggled with conceiving and once they finally arrived, I did not want to let them grow up.
I know it seems weird (especially when they are growing before my eyes), but to look back at those little dresses and shirts made me nostalgic and remember when they first came home.
This past week, I had a revelation. Not by my own thoughts, but by the thoughts of my four year old daughter.
That very week, I packed up a big bag of baby wear and donated it to Project Eden(a not for profit organization that is dedicated to the rebuilding of Haiti).
I felt as though I was cleansed and could now see clearly.
My daughter showed me by giving away something that I held on to allowed me to be free from living in the past and to look forward to the future.
Life is about moving forward.
Giving always makes room for more!
MaryJane
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Weight Loss Wednesday
On Wednesdays we will share the best weight loss tips that we have. If you have some really great tips that are working for you please feel free to share and/or comment.
On the Get Healthy Journey, here are a couple of things you should know....
Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day
Fruits and vegetables are packed with beneficial fibers, vitamins and antioxidants. They fill up your stomach fast so you feel full earlier. They are also low in calories and helps to keep your calorie count low.
Do not Skip Meals
Eating small frequent meals help to balance your calorie intake throughout the day and also keeps your blood sugar level balanced. Instead of eating 3 big meals, try to eat 5 - 6 smaller meals throughout the day.
Watch for the sugary drinks
Juices, soda, cream & sugar in your coffee or tea all add up. Opt for drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day. In addition to providing hydration to your body, it will also help you feel full.
Each Wednesday we will share something that has worked for us and hopefully it may help you on your "get healthy" journey.
Tips are courtesy of HealthCastle.com, Written by Gloria Tsang, RD of HealthCastle.com. Click here to read full article.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
On the Get Healthy Journey, here are a couple of things you should know....
Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day
Fruits and vegetables are packed with beneficial fibers, vitamins and antioxidants. They fill up your stomach fast so you feel full earlier. They are also low in calories and helps to keep your calorie count low.
Do not Skip Meals
Eating small frequent meals help to balance your calorie intake throughout the day and also keeps your blood sugar level balanced. Instead of eating 3 big meals, try to eat 5 - 6 smaller meals throughout the day.
Watch for the sugary drinks
Juices, soda, cream & sugar in your coffee or tea all add up. Opt for drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day. In addition to providing hydration to your body, it will also help you feel full.
Each Wednesday we will share something that has worked for us and hopefully it may help you on your "get healthy" journey.
Tips are courtesy of HealthCastle.com, Written by Gloria Tsang, RD of HealthCastle.com. Click here to read full article.
Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Hobo’s Quote for the Day
Lately I have been throwing myself a self appointed pity party. Over the past few months nothing has gone as I had planned. Everything from career plans, financial stability, and of course romantic aspirations. Then I received a little something that reminded me to always strive to keep your hopes and dreams alive (author unknown).
Don't quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
when the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
when the funds are low and the debts are high,
and you want to smile but you have to sigh,
when care is pressing you down a bit - rest if you must,
but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns.
As every one of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about when he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow - you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man;
often the struggler has given up when he might have captured the victor's cup;
and he learned too late when the night came down,
how close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out - the silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
and when you never can tell how close you are,
it may be near when it seems afar;
so stick to the fight when you're hardest hit - it's when things seem worst,
you must not quit.
Hobo Bag
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women
Don't quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
when the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
when the funds are low and the debts are high,
and you want to smile but you have to sigh,
when care is pressing you down a bit - rest if you must,
but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns.
As every one of us sometimes learns.
And many a fellow turns about when he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow - you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man;
often the struggler has given up when he might have captured the victor's cup;
and he learned too late when the night came down,
how close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out - the silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
and when you never can tell how close you are,
it may be near when it seems afar;
so stick to the fight when you're hardest hit - it's when things seem worst,
you must not quit.
Hobo Bag
Real Life, Real talk, Real Women
Monday, August 2, 2010
Leading a full Life
How do you view a full life? In my mind living a full life is defined by being good to yourself and others. This means that in order to lead a full life it may require some serving of others.
We can’t go around day to day thinking that all that matters for our lives to be full is to work, take care of our families and be good friends. The spice in life is adding happiness to others.
Take some time out in your life and reflect on that thought. I know that personally I feel my best when I am doing something for someone other than someone close to me or related.
Check out your local communities, churches, recreation clubs and shelters to see how you can add fullness to your life by filling the needs of others.
Much Love
Chanel
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
Sunday, August 1, 2010
A Favorite Quote of Mine
How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live.
~ Henry David Thoreau
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
~ Henry David Thoreau
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women
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