my29369
Monday, March 17, 2008
Its Very Exciting To Know The Cricket World Cup Records
World cup is one
of the biggest
and most awaited tournaments in the history of cricket.
Its obvious that
cricket world cup records are something that every cricket lover would like to know. Cricket world cup records are very exciting to know. It brings cheer and happiness in the minds of cricket fanatics. Cricket is one the favorite games in those countries where it is passionately watched. Whenever the world cup starts, a kind of cricketing ambiance is felt everywhere.
Every other fan seems to have deeply involved in cricket. Well, there is no doubt in the fact that cricket is the game of making and breaking records, and players always keep their fans entertaining with their best performances. Cricket world cup records have been a vital source of information for fans because it informs them about the maximum number of runs made or maximum number of wickets taken.
World cup tournament comes after every four years.
This increases the excitement of fans to catch the players live in action. This awaited event is worth watching because you
can see tremendous performances given by the players. Cricket world cup records will let you
know that whether your favorite player is a part of that record list or not. It becomes more exciting to watch a live match when your favorite player breaks the records or makes a record.
Its a matter of high esteem and gives
immense pleasure to know the records made by them. After all, breaking the cricket world cup records of a legend is surely makes us proud. In every world cup, records are made and broken. It shows that the world of cricket is growing and becoming bigger and better. You can even get lots of information from the statistics of cricket world cup records. You can get each and every answer of your query from the cricket world cup records.
If you are a cricket fanatic, you would surely want to know the records made by the great players. You can also keep a track record of your own. Every cricket lover knows that Vivian Richards is one of those successful batsman who made a record of scoring runs with maximum average of 63.31.Cricket world cup record has the track of every action on the cricket ground whether it is batting, bowling or fielding. Apart from this, Australian team made fantastic runs of 359 against India in world cup 2003.
Its not easy to make or break cricket world cup records. The players have to be fit and perform very well to outshine in the world cup. After looking at the records, you will come to know that Australia has been one of the most successful team. Its a record that they have won thrice in the world cup. None other country has made such record yet. Its always exciting to know the cricket world cup records.
Information regarding cricket world cup records is something that everyone would like to know. The fans will try to access any medium to get the record information. There are various sites which will let you know the records made till date in the world cup. You can also get records information on newspaper. On the internet, you will get an advantage to look into the earlier records ever
since the world cup began.
Ella Wilson is a cricket fanatic. She simply loves the game and tries to catch live action no matter where she is.At Stickiewicket she works on Online cricket wallpaper,live cricket score,cricket world cup and cricket world cup records among other things.You can see her works at
http://www.stickiewicket.com.
Miami DolphinsThe New Bengals? Not Yet
With the arrest
of Miami wide receiver Chris Chambers this past weekend, some might start to wonder if the Dolphins have evolved into Bengals over the off season. Chambers, a 2005 pro bowler and star of, ahem, my fantasy team, was picked up in North Carolina for driving while impaired, reckless driving, and speeding on July 14th. With the arrest, Chambers is now the third Dolphin to be taken into custody this year. If eight more Dolphins find themselves behind bars, they will pass the Cincinnati Bengals and lead the league in most (jail) yards gained.
Besides Chambers, Fred Evans, a defensive tackle with Miami, was arrested on June 23 for trespassing, resisting arrest with violence, disorderly conduct, and battery on a police officer. Joey Porter, the Steeler
turned Dolphin, was arrested for a March conflict where he was accused of punching Levi Jones, an offensive lineman for the - go figure - Cincinnati Bengal. Porter was eventually charged with a misdemeanor.
So, there you have itare the Dolphins taking a page from the Bengals and - in lieu of evading sacks and tackles - focusing their time on evading the law? Well, not exactly.
To being with, this is a first offense for Chambers: before Saturday, his professional record was completely clean. He also - according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel - passed a breathalyzer test while at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police station. While he certainly shouldn't have been doing any kind of drinking and driving, he can chalk his arrest up to a mistakeand NEVER do it again.
Fred
Evans offense, a violent crime, wasn't
as benign, and this wasn't overlooked by the Dolphin's coaching staff.
In the aftermath of his arrest, Evans found himself unemployed: Miami let him go. Cam Cameron, the head coach, released a statement saying, "We will not condone this type of behavior. I assure everyone it will be dealt with seriously." And seriously dealt with it was. Good for Cam for standing by his word, and his morals.
Joey Porter's arrest for hitting Levi Jones makes me think that neither party was innocent. When you have football players, packed with testosterone, and add the element of alcohol, these things will happen. Still, Porter is a bit of wild card and someone Cameron should keep an eye on. Porter has not only spat out accusations of cheating, (jokingly?) said he was going to give George Bush a piece of his mind, uttered
homosexual slurs, and been voted one of the NFL's dirtiest players, but he also owned two dogs who killed his neighbors miniature horse. How, exactly, does that kind of thing happen?
Nonetheless, for now you can chalk Porter up to a talented player with a lot of passion (if not too much) who likes to run his mouth, and sometimes puts his foot in
it. He's
hardly the first NFL player to get in a fist fight and he won't be the last. Porter and Chamber don't quite deserve to be labeled Bengals just yet. As for Evans, well
maybe Cincinnati has an opening.
Jennifer Jordan is a senior editor for
http://www.milleniumlimo.com. An avid sports fan, she likes the Miami Dolphins but her heart belongs to the Denver Broncos.
Creating More Money
How
many grains of sand are there on the beach? Come on, tell me, how many? How many stars are there in the sky? Come on, all you have
to do is count them! If I breathe and you breathe and everybody and
every animal on earth breathe in oxygen, why don't
we ever run out?
We live in an abundant Universe. There is an
abundance of everything. None of us ever wake up in the morning fearing
that there won't be enough air to breathe or that there won't be enough water to drink. Did you wake up this morning wondering if there
would be water in your tap?
There is so much abundance in this world that it seems that it would be impossible to run
out of anything. How many grains of sand are there on the beach? How many stars are in the sky? How many shrimp are in the ocean? If you think about it, it's mind-boggling. Everything is infinite. Everything.
Yet, many of us struggle with a lack, a lack of a very important component to life. Many of us struggle with a lack of money.
It's not because there really is a lack of money in the world. There is enough money in the world for every man, woman and child alive today to be a millionaire and then some. There is an abundance of money just like there is abundance of everything else. So why is it that so many of us struggle with the lack of money?
Some may argue that money is different from air, water, food and such. After all money is man-made, isnt it? But what is money? Money is just a form of
energy that we use for exchange. Its truly nothing more. You give your time, ideas and energy and you get money in return. Money is just a medium of exchangenothing else.
The answers to money problems lie in how we use our own minds. How we think determines if we have money in abundance or a lack of money. If we think about lack of money, debt, and other problems all day long that is exactly what we create. If we think of abundance and joy that money can bring that is what we create. We create more of what we think about. If you want more money, think about more moneynever think of the lack.
Think of any famous, rich millionaire you know or have heard of.
Do you think they spend any time worrying about a lack of money? No! You shouldn't either. We all deserve to have an abundance of money and anything else we want in our lives.
Karen Lynch is the creator of the motivation and inspiration website
http://www.livethepower.com You can learn about using the power of your own mind by picking up a copy of a Free Ebook of "The Power of the Subconscious Mind" by Dr. Joseph Murphy at
http://www.livethepower.com/home.html.
Chiang Mai, Thailands Temple of the Dogs
Into the Arms of Buddha
It was 5 p.m. and I was stalking an angel on
temple grounds. As the rain started, I wondered if she would show herself at all. Chiang Mais rain patterns are directly correlated with the contents of my purse. The resulting meteorological phenomena means the rain could stop in a matter of seconds
or pour down for days, depending on whether or not Id brought my umbrella. I had not.
Squinting into the droplets, I glared up at the massive Chedi, a Lanna-style stupa which draws in visitors from across Northern Thailand. Sure its impressive, but what I want to know is: How can you have such a large building sitting there for 700 years and not install any doors? Surely it has rained here before.
Where to hide? No way would I take shelter in the two beautiful little buildings in front of me. Stunningly designed, absolutely! But each houses a wax replica of an elderly monk sitting in a clear box. File them under way too real looking to pass time with. What can I say? Lack of blinking disturbs me. Beside, if wax can achieve the lotus position, why cant I?
To escape the deluge, my shelter took the form of a gazebo housing three large Buddhas. I would not be alone. One by one, temple residents trickled in. The first went straight to a mat he obviously kept laid out for these moments. Two more just sat down and licked themselves. By the time the skies opened up completely, three more temple
dogs had meandered into the shelter.
Carrying dog cookies is just something I do. I could explain myself, but people either get it or never will. I tossed five treats out and turned to the sixth dog, Lek (Thai for little). She had vanished. Not possible. Would she go back out in the rain? Is there a dog door in the side of the Chedi?
I surrendered Leks cookie to an antique looking Weimaraner. Predictably, thats when I spotted her. Out of the corner of my eye I noticed her sitting in the right hand of a Buddha. She yawned, nestled perfectly into Buddhas arms and fell fast asleep. After six years of visiting Wat Chedi Luang, the temple still brings a grin to my face. Must be why I keep coming back.
Angels of Chedi Luang
Actually, as the donation box says, It all started about ten years ago. Ajarn Rosocon, a teacher at Chiang Mais Rajabaht University, decided to make the dogs of Wat Chedi Luang and the adjoining Wat Phan Tau her mission. Ajarn is Thai for teacher. Her best lessons were taught at this temple complex. Out of a potential hell these unique Buddhist sites have been transformed into a sort of canine Nirvana.
Initially, students and friends helped Ajarn Rosocon care for the dogs. They fed, sterilized, treated mange, vaccinated whatever they could manage from the pennies (baht) they scraped together. The group was determined that the dogs of Chedi Luang and Phan Tau not suffer the life faced by so many abandoned and sick temple dogs across SE Asia.
In 2005 Ajarn Rosocon unexpectedly died. A friend, Ann Pierce, and another devoted friend/student Khun Soonthree stepped in. Adopting Rosocons dream as their own, they went forward, honoring a friends memory by helping the helpless. Ultimately, Khun Soonthree became in many eyes the Angel of Chedi Luang.
Touring the Temples
Wat Chedi Luang has
become a refuge not just for
dogs, but for all animal lovers. If travelers become overwhelmed by the sight and plight of street dogs or simply need a quiet escape they visit this feel good temple. Try it yourself. Play tourist, take photos, pat a willing pup, or bring a picnic its all good. Then at 6 p.m. watch for the angel. Over a year after Ajarn Rosocon death, Khun Soonthree still feeds and cares for the temple dogs.
Word has it she never misses a day. She was there in the rainy season when her own home flooded several times. She was there in the storm when Lek and I sought shelter. Her bright yellow rain slicker and massive pot of rice mix carried her through the tempest. If it is 6 oclock in Chiang Mai, shes there right now.
Most people visit Wat Chedi Luangs temple complex for the impressive ancient Chedi. In addition, its beautiful grounds are perfect for strolling, quietly removed from the citys frenzy. Vendors offer food and cool drink. Trees and benches offer hospitable shade. The adjoining Wat Phan Tau casts a luminous teak glow over the Buddha images it houses.
Better still, the aptly named Monk Chat area offer travelers a welcoming invitation to pull up a chair and, quite obviously, chat with monks. A casual atmosphere where international visitors just hang out with Buddhist monks is a fabulous forum for asking questions and learning about one anothers lives. In the background the voices of novice monks echo outward from classroom windows.
Whos Who?
Of course, for a few of us the temples house one more special treasure the dogs. Not all are social. Not all are loyal. Some are downright ornery. But to know the whos who of Chedi Luang canines adds to the fun of any visit. True most tourists barely notice them except to do a quick sidestep away. Like many regulars, however, Ive given most nicknames.
Take Ren and Stumpy for example. Ren, a diminutive twig of a dog, is the duos personality. Stumpy, who has a front leg contorted up underneath, provides a bit of size (a valuable asset in the world of temple dog politics) to the team. Side by side the pair can be found on a building patio overlooking the Chedi's north face.
Ren works her magic, charming the visitors with enthusiastic greetings. Then Stumpy shows his handicap, Abracadabra! Any traveler with half a heart makes a beeline for the ubiquitous 5 baht meat-on-a-stick vendor. No need to heat it sir.
Next, is Lady. She works with a local artist by delicately charming customers to his postcard rack. From there they get a close-up look at his lovely hand sketched works. I suspect Lady pulls in a commission.
Friendly Little Lek hovers at ordinary in the looks department. But every dog is beautiful when they sleep in Buddhas arms.
Not all is perfect. When I first saw Hiccup, I thought he had just been poisoned. Now I know the perpetual hack must be a medical problem. A bone lodged somewhere or I can not say. While not overly social, Hiccup is stunningly photogenic.
At the front entrance of Chedi Luang are the three Golden Boys. At least I think they are boys. They rarely stand. This is the first place Khun Soonthree feeds each evening. Looking at the girth of the Golden Boys, its a tad surprising there is any food left for any other temple dogs.
Across from them lives Lucy the Teddy Bear dog. Had you seen her before her haircut, you would have expected to find seams and a price tag.
No one knows exactly how many dogs live at Chedi Luang, 60+ perhaps. Other notable characters include Cookie Monster, whose cantankerous attitude and dull looks are well compensated for by the fact that he is the only one who actually likes the dull old dry dog cookies I bring. Apparently others prefer Khun Soonthrees cooking to mine.
Living on the north face of the Chedi is Scar and her three puppies. Some dogs turn up at the temple pregnant. Still, her puppies Goldie, Blackie, and Coco Puff are well cared for.
The latest I have notice is named, Oh Crap, Where Are My Ears? Oh Crap, or Ears for short, must be an abandoned pet. He is way too forlorn looking. Its as though he desperately wants a master. However, hes willing to settle for jerky treats - or bigger ears.
Chubby, a pseudo red Chow, and Pigeon Chaser top off the list of charmers over at Wat Phan Tau. Pigeon Chaser will pass any domestic chicken, but heaven help the wild birds if he ever sprouts wings. The young monks at Phan Tau are especially loving toward their smaller population of temple dogs.
It is truly a joy to watch them interact. Saffron robes and happy tails flourish side by side.
The influence Chedi Luang has on animal lovers is best summed up by Ann Pierce. A former volunteer with the dogs, Ann has returned to
California, but wrote this in an email interview:
I cannot begin to articulate the impact the dogs, Ajarn Rosocon, Khun Soonthree, Wat Chedi Luang and all the other people I met through my time in Chiang
Mai has had on me. Im a very different person because of my experiences. My dream is to one day move back to Chiang Mai and continue helping the animals, no matter how frustrating it is at times.
Getting There
You can take a Tuk Tuk to visit Wat Chedi Luang. Most drivers know of this popular temple. On foot
enter the old city from the famous Tha Phae Gate (east moat gate) and continue straight up Ratchadamnoen Road about four blocks to the first street light Phra Pokklao Rd. Turn left. Youll immediately see the spectacular Teak Wood Temple of Wat Phan Tau on your right. Take a look inside. Wat Chedi Luangs larger complex is located next door.
Please remember Wats are Buddhist Temples first and foremost. Dress conservatively and behave respectfully. They dont have to let the visitors or the dogs stay. Honor yourself by the example you set.
How Can You Help?
Visit Chedi Luang, have a great time, then spread the word.
Feeding starts at the main entrance between 5:30 and 6:00 each night. Stop by and show Khun Soonthree your appreciation of her work.
Please make a donation in one of the temples three Dog Donation Boxes,
set up around the Chedi. Your money goes to food, vaccinations, mange treatment, sterilization of females (and males when it can be afforded), and general care.
The main Wat is currently undergoing a massive restoration. Making a donation to support the construction work, the temple and the temples school is good for all the residents two and four legged (or 3.5 sorry Stumpy).
Getting the Most from Your Visit!
Never approach any dog that seems reluctant. Get acquainted slowly with the friendly animals. Their continued socialization, or at least apathy to people, keeps them from wearing out their welcome at the temple.
Do not bring too many good tasting cookies: bacon, pork rings, a side of beef The bigger dogs will follow and fights can ensue with defenseless smaller ones. Dry old dog cookies rate low on the taste scale. In other words, they are a perfect cheap way to give snacks to those that will eat them eventually. If in doubt, donate the money instead. It goes to the right place.
Helping Dogs in Chiang Mai
If you live in Thailand, consider helping change the world one temple at a time. Get advice form angels and/or adopt your own temple with permission of the monks. Make it a family, business, class or club project. Work with a reputable vet. Dr. Nook in Chiang Mai is aces!
Other organizations that help pets in the Chiangmai area temples include Lanna Dog Rescue and Care for Dogs. Both have web sites and are always looking for volunteers or donations of funds, foods and materials.
In addition, Care for Dogs also has a wonderful shelter offering adoptions of healthy rescued dogs and puppies to good homes. Remember, for each new pet that finds a family, space is made for a suffering dog to be brought into their facility. What a beautiful way to help one - dog at a time.
Nola L. Kelsey is the author of Bitch Unleashed: The Harsh Realities of Goin Country and coauthor of the scathing political satire Keeping the Masses Down. She is currently wandering SE Asia for two years while she pretends to write her next book, Nine Lives in Siam. To read more of Kelseys work, visit her rarely up-to-date website at:
http://www.nolakelsey.com. A complete photo essay devoted to the dogs of Chedi Luang is posted!
Equipment For A Carping Beginner
There are as many different opinions about what you
need to get started as there
is carp fishing equipment. Here are some of
the essential items:
Fish care products These are becoming increasingly important, so much so, in fact, that on some fisheries it is already compulsory to use them. Its important to ensure that the fish are returned to the water in the best
condition possible, so buy the thickest un-hooking mat and the softest weigh sling you can afford. Another product you will need is Kryston Klin-ik, Nash Medi Carp or Bonjela. This will help keep infection away and also help any other damage, such as missing scales, heal quicker.
Luggage It goes without
saying that you need something to carry all
your equipment around
in. When buying luggage try to keep weight issues in mind, as you have to carry it. There are many different types of hold-all, rod bags and rucksacks so you should take your time looking around for the right one.
Chairs and bed chairs Carp fishing can involve long waiting times and so it is vital to be comfortable. If youre comfortable, you will be more relaxed and patient.
Reels - The main thing to
look for
when choosing a reel is a bait runner facility. It may be called by another name such as free spool, but what it actually is is a system where you can flick a switch, usually at the back of the reel, which by-passes the clutch system on your reel. This ensures that should a carp run off with your rig and bait at a fast rate, it won't take your rod with it.
Bivvies and umbrellas - A Bivvy is basically a tent optimized for fishing. An umbrella is a must for anyone who intends to fish in anything other than the best weather. Even in summer, however, youll need an umbrella to protect you from the sun.
Dog Lane Fishery in Warwickshire has a superb carp fishing lake at the top of the complex, where you can try out all your new equipment. Visit their website now by clicking on
http://doglanefishery.co.uk.
Stop Your Dog Barking When You're At Home
When you need to curb your dogs barking,
it can be a real challenge if the only time they do it
is when youre not there. Often, these dogs need a training program that
will not only address the barking, but possibly a general case of separation anxiety. However, youre in luck if they bark in your presence, as you can correct the
barking with the right timing, correction, and praise. Dealing with a
barking problem when youre there may also help prevent it from happening when youre away. There are several methods discussed, which have varying degrees of merit:
* Ignore, wait, and reward method. This is good for attention seekers, but youll need some patience, and perhaps a good set of earplugs. The important
thing is to reward them immediately after they stop.
* The squirt gun method. I personally dont enjoy carrying around a gun (how un-American of me!) even if that gun is filled with water. It can be a hassle, and if youre not a quick enough draw, it diminishes the effect. Note: a mixture of Citronella or water and vinegar solution (one part vinegar to eight parts water) can be
more effective than straight water when using this approach. Aim for the chest, not the face.
* The collar and leash method. Effective for dogs on lead that have been trained to respond to a tug and a corrective, Uh uh or simple No. You may find it easy to suppress barking through the same means. This is a good method.
But heres the
absolute best and quickest:
* Physical correction method. No, its not the least bit violent, painful, or inhumane. When your dog barks, meet them
at their level, firmly wrap one or both of your hands around the snout (dont shake it), and repeat your corrective command. I use a continual Shhh or a repeated Uh uh uh uh. The idea is to hold on not only until they stop making noise (they obviously cant bark with their mouth closed) but also until they stop resisting the placement of your hand by jerking back or wriggling away. This method is effective also because it asserts your dominant role in the process.
Because it involves a physical correction, it may not be a favorite option for owners uncomfortable with this sort of interaction. But I can only emphasize that dogs are not children and they feel more secure with a clear idea of a pack leader they can trust.
Whatever method you choose, only repetition will do the trick. Never yell. Its like barking back at them. It just makes more noise. Though its easy to tell your dog to shut it through an
open window, its lazy, and if your dog is barking because it needs to tell you something, even if its just that they want a bit more attention, then yelling will upset and confuse them more. Expect more barking. As always, give praise when the barking stops.
All in all, you still need to allow your dog times to fully express themselves and their beautiful voice. It is not realistic that you always ask your dog to stop barking every time they start. In fact, this can have dangerous consequences if the dog needs to alert you to something but they have been discouraged from speaking up. Remember, if they are barking to indicate arrival of someone trying to sell their Tupperware or their religion, let them go for an extra minute, and thank them after they have made a hasty exit.
Martin Olliver is a proud member of the Kingdom of Pets team (
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/). For more great articles on problem barking, visit:
http://kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/articles/barking_dogs.php
Dog Chewing: 4 Essential Steps to Stop the Destruction
Humans play solitaire to keep themselves occupied when theyre alone. Dogs chew. Its what they do. Actually, chewing is much more
important to dogs than solitaire is to humans. Dogs need to chew on things to maintain healthy teeth
and gums and good jaw strength. Solitaire will do nothing for your dental hygiene.
Puppies need to chew even more when they are teething (in fact, there are special chew toys that can be dampened and frozen to provide relief for painful gums during
this process). So chewing isnt a problem in itself, but destructive chewing is. Dogs need to learn what they can and cannot chew on, and they are quite capable
of doing so when properly taught. Here are four steps every
dog owner should take to encourage constructive chewing.
1. Prevent. As always
the best cure, but dog owners should always dog proof their home, especially with puppies. They can be very creative with what they chew. Anything not removable that has been or is likely to be targeted can be sprayed with a deterrent, such as Bitter Apple.
2. Interrupt. Whenever you are there with your dog, it is important that you actively teach them commands for leave it or drop. These are given whenever you see them taking something into their jaws that should not be in there. You may have to orchestrate this training process by adding some of the items that you removed in step 1. But
thats what training is all about - setting up safe scenarios in which you can help them differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. These commands will also work well when you are out with your dog and they want to pick up something dangerous or
just foul.
3. Redirect. Heres where you start teaching your friend which toys belong to them, to chew to pieces if they like (and they will). Immediately after removing the inappropriate item from their clutches, replace it with an appropriate toy. It will take some time to really zero in on a few of your dogs most favorite things. But as you try lots of different toys to encourage constructive chewing, keep in mind that the best ones are those designed to promote healthy teeth and gums such as dental chew ropes. Also, try to find what are called active toys, which give your dog something to do for an extended period of time. For example, Kong balls and rubber toys can be stuffed with food, such as peanut butter or whatever they go for. Often dogs are inactive when they are alone because theyre missing you.
5. Praise. The final step is simple but not one to forget.
The good news is that most dogs will grow out of this phase somewhat at the same time as they figure out whats chewable and whats not. If your dogs chewing problem continues, however, it is likely to be an expression of nervous energy (the same goes for excessive licking, of themselves and others). The number one cause of nervous energy for dogs is lack of exercise.
A brisk 15-minute walk is simply not enough for many dogs, barely a warm-up for a Border Collie, and it is important to understand that exercise is different from a play session or outing to the park.
The mistake that a lot of dog owners make, which is an unfortunate function of their busy schedules, is that they pack in two high intensity (15-20 minute)
fetch sessions at the beginning and end of the day. True, this is much better than nothing, but the fact that the dog goes more or less from sleeping to sprinting, then from lying around all day to sprinting again, can cause extra wear and tear on the joints and possibly early arthritis. Like humans, a dog
benefits from a decent warm-up and warm-down, and busy owners should do their best to sneak in some longer, less intense exercise sessions.
All the best with it, and dont chew out your dog in the meantime.
Martin Olliver is a proud member of the Kingdom of Pets team (
http://www.kingdomofpets.com). For more great articles on chewing and other dog habits, visit:
http://kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/articles/dog_training_solutions.php.
How A New Real Estate Investor Can Buy Apartment Buildings With No Money At All
Thinking of investing in commercial
real estate?
This article is for new investors to explain Where to Start.
A lot of new investors
have tried to first invest in other types of commercial properties such as office
buildings or shopping centers; only to realize that the transition is just too drastic and it ends up costing them the property, all their money leaving them deep in debt, destroying their credit and it takes years for them to recover.
Apartment buildings are tremendously easier to purchase, maintain & put on auto-pilot simply because most of us already understand how to rent an apartment and tenants are almost always readily available.
The buying process for other commercial properties (like shopping centers or office buildings) is not much different however the financing is much more difficult to obtain and leasing usually requires a team of very experienced individuals to negotiate contracts with business tenants.
If you're a new investor with little or no cash to invest, you MUST first start out with apartment buildings. Once you own at least 2 properties with at least 50 units in each property (which should be more then enough to pay you over $10,000 a month in net passive income cash flow) you can then branch out to other areas of commercial real estate.
After you own a
few apartment buildings and have those properties generating you enough monthly cash flow; THEN you can absorb any vacancies that might come from not being able to rent out space in your office building, warehouse or shopping center.
Apartments are where just about all successful commercial real estate investors started out, so why try and fight the odds. Apartments are the fastest, easiest and safest way to
create monthly income and
massive profits.
While it is technically possible to have your first deal be a warehouse, shopping center or office building... the statistics
show that it almost never happens.
Most investors who first try to jump to other commercial properties before
they own a couple of apartment buildings, inevitably fail and quit
this business never to return...
That's why I teach boot camps training seminars which focus on how to buy apartment buildings with no money at all. While I do teach about all types of commercial real estate, I focus on apartment buildings because the process with apartments is much faster and easier then it is with other types of commercial real estate.
If you want to succeed, your first commercial property must be an apartment building. This is the fastest and easiest way to create a steady stream of monthly Passive Income each and every month for the Rest of your Life!
Anthony Minnuto
http://www.passiveincomerealestate.comReal Estate Investing for Passive Income & Residual Cash Flow
Anthony Minnuto teaches real estate investors how to buy apartment buildings with no money at all. Real Estate Investing for Passive Income & Residual Cash Flow.
10 Tips for Debt Free Living
Debt Freedomit is something
that everybody wants to achieve, but the question is, how you get there. Reaching debt freedom involves changing the way we think about our money and the way we manage our money. I am not saying you need to give up all the things that you like, but you may want to take
a good hard look at what is really important in your life.
Is having things now more important than having a future. Fulfilling your dreams in the future will take some planning in the present. How you handle your money in the present will determine how much of it you will retain for your future. There are some very basic and simple changes you can make in your daily life that will help you prepare for a financially sound future. Here are some simple changes you can make that will you
achieve debt freedom:
1. Stop financing your lifestyle with credit cards.
If it is not an
emergency (the latest shoe style is not an emergency) or it can not
be paid off in full monthly, it should not be charged. Credit cards are robbing Americans of a sound financial future.
2. Keep a log of your spending. Once you know where your money is going, it will be easier to see where you can cut back. Put the extra money towards paying down your credit cards.
3. Pack your lunch 3 days (or more) a week. Eating out can be expensive and brown bagging it will save you money.
4. Instead of going out to the movies, rent a movie and
enjoy a family movie night at home.
5. Have a pizza party and make your pizza at home instead of ordering out.
6. Buy in
bulk and freeze dinners. This will not only save you money it will save you time.
7. Give handmade gifts and cards.
8. Shop at consignment shops, thrift stores, discount stores and yard sales.
9. Consider discontinuing or downgrading your cell phones and cable TV plans.
10. Pay more than the minimum payment on your credit cards. If you pay only the minimum on a credit card with a $3000 balance, it will cost you $2780 in interest and will take you 8 years to pay the balance off. If you pay an extra $50 a month towards your balance, you will save $1800 in interest and have your debt paid off in three years.
Bottom line is before you can live debt free you have to become debt free.
Following some of these tips will help you achieve debt freedom. With a little bit of effort, you will be able find many ways of saving money. Start by looking at things you spend money on and find ways to reduce or eliminate these expenses. Every little bit helps.
Marjorie Salada is the owner of
http://www.debtmanagement1.com, a website that contains
information on debt consolidation, debt settlement, debt counseling and how to manage credit card debt.
Toy and Small Dog Clothes
People wear clothes for many reasons.
We wear
them for modesty - it's illegal in most places to go around without any clothing. We wear clothes to protect us
from the weather. Raincoats
and hats make us much more comfortable in the rain while fleece
lined coats and boots are greatly appreciated in cold weather, and when there is snow on the ground. We also wear clothes to make ourselves feel and look good, to impress other people with our excellent taste, and to show that we have the money for expensive
designer clothes.
Dogs wear clothes for one reason only - their owners want them to wear the
clothes. Dog owners put clothes on their dogs for most of the same reasons they put clothes on themselves and their children. In fact many
dog owners regard their dogs as their children and they buy them clothes and dress them up to show how much they care for them. The exception to this, of course, is modesty. Dogs don't require clothing for that purpose and, in fact for obvious reasons, dog clothes rarely cover that particular area.
Protective clothing for small and toy dogs such as Boston Terriers, Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Maltese, Pugs and any of the miniature or teacup dog breeds is a good idea. These dogs generally feel the cold much more than larger dogs - that's why they do not enjoy going outside for walks with their owners in rainy, snowy or cold weather. They even resist going outside to the bathroom in inclement weather which makes it very difficult to house train toy dog breeds in cold or wet weather.
Raincoats and hats made of vinyl or waterproof nylon are available for wet weather, as are rain boots. These boots are usually fastened with Velcro and/or zippers. Fleece lined, shearling and wool coats are available to keep your dog warm in cold weather. Boots are useful to protect your dog's paws from the effects of ice and salt. For hot summer days, sensitive paws should wear sandals to protect them from hot asphalt or sand. You can also buy sunglasses for your dog but perhaps you could discuss this with your veterinarian to see if they provide any benefit to your dog's eyes. Protective clothing is also beneficial to short-haired and older dogs of all sizes as well as the small dog breeds. Even some of the larger short-haired dog breeds like the Bulldog, Boxer and Greyhound appreciate protection in the cold weather. See the Directory of Breed of Dogs to see which dog breeds are particularly sensitive to cold weather. Owners of most large dog breeds are probably not as interested in dog clothes but might consider obtaining reflective vests for their dogs. These vests make the dogs easier to see when walking at night and also make the dog easier to find if you are camping and hunting - especially good for black or dark-colored dogs.
Reflective vests have a practical purpose. So do some much more frivolous-looking clothes. Toy dogs and even some small dogs should wear harnesses rather than collars for reasons of health - they can easily injure their trachea with a collar. Some very sensible people have designed coats and other outfits with a 'D' ring on them which make extremely attractive harnesses for small dogs. Practical, attractive, and sometimes quite lavish clothes are available for toy and small dogs. Pajamas, bathrobes, dresses, sweaters, formal outfits for weddings, and costumes (you can dress your dog as a lamb, a lion, a vampire or even buy him an Elvis jumpsuit) can be found in stores and at discount prices on the Internet. Creative entrepreneurs advertise on-line that they will custom design and make outfits for your dog. Of course, if you like to sew, you can buy sewing patterns to make a blanket, cushion, dog coat, dog coat, leg warmers and boots for your dog and a matching scarf and hat for you to wear.
Dog clothes come in an amazing range of styles and prices. We hope you have fun choosing the right clothes for your dog.
Mike Mathews is a contributing writer and editor for the popular dog breed site:
http://www.dog-breed-facts.com. He provides informative, real-world advice and tips on dog breeds, dog health, dog grooming and more. As well be sure to check out his free report on Dog Training.
Let's Talk About Vaccines - Everyone Else Is!
There
is no universal protocol for canine vaccination schedules. Many vets recommend more vaccinations than most dogs require to be protected from
contagious diseases. A lot of vets use the vaccination schedule they receive with the vaccinations they buy from drug companies. Vets are now realizing to trust vaccine makers may not be the best thing to do. Vaccine makers are in the business of selling vaccines.
There are a number of things pet owners can do to make sure
their dogs are protected against contagious diseases
without overvaccinating. You need to learn about the diseases the vaccines defend your dog against. Before
you allow your vet to vaccinated, ask your vet about the disease it prevents. What is its incidence? How is it
transmitted? Is it more prevalent in your particular area? Ask your vet is the disease treatable, and if so, how many dogs recover? If you find out the disease kills many dogs
who get it and the virus is everywhere, you should probably authorize your vet to vaccinate your dog against that disease. If you find out a particular disease is very prevalent in your area, you should probably authorize your vet to vaccinate your dog against that disease in addition to other appropriate vaccines.
A list of vaccines for dogs that most experts agree
puppies and dogs should be protected against - diseases that are highly contagious and potentially fatal would include:
Canine Parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) Canine distemper virus (CDV) Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) Rabies virus (RV)
If you are concerned about overvaccination be sure to have your puppies vaccinated against distemper, parvo, and adenovirus, not before six weeks, and
at least once after the age of 12 weeks, and a rabies vaccine given after 16 weeks. About two weeks after the last vaccination with distemper, parvo, and adenovirus, ask for a vaccine titer test to see if your puppy has been successfully immunized.
Other vaccine tips you need to remember:
Use vaccine titer tests to see if your dog is adequately immunized against the diseases that most experts aggree puppies and dogs should be protected against. These are diseases that are highly contagious and potentially fatal.
Don't use low-cost clinics for your dog's vaccinations (unless the clinic is operated by a professional you know and trust). Instead make a relationship with a vet who will take time with you, who will ask your about your dog's health history, answer your questions about the benefits and risks of various vaccines and recommend an individualized vaccination schedule for your dog that takes into consideration his lifestyle and environment.
Take your dog to the vet at least once a year.
Do not vaccinate dogs who suffer from chronic or acute health problems, running a high temperaturem, or who have a history of vaccine reactions. Do not vacciante elderly dogs just because if your dog has been vaccinated many times in the younger years, he is probably immunized against disease as much as he can be.
This article is free to publish with the resource box.
Connie Limon I raise Shih Tzu puppies for sale bred from champion bloodlines in a variety of colors. We have the AKC small standard, imperial and teacups. Visit us at
http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and
http://shihtzuarticles.com
How To Make Money With Pro Wealth Solutions
If
you are considering joining Pro Wealth Solutions, there are
a couple of things you should consider before you start paying $35 for the membership.
Pro Wealth Solutions is a typical MLM business opportunity. Meaning that you sign up, start paying the $35 membership and then you will be paid a commission on whoever you get to sign below you. In essence, you are being paid a portion of your downlines membership money.
Some will classify this as a Pyramid Scam. Though it is a pyramid structure, the word Scam is a little harsh. One definition of scam that is apropos to this situation is to obtain money from somebody by dishonest means. If Pro Wealth Solutions promised to give you
access to their resources for a membership fee of X and did not deliver, then that would be a scam. If they promised that you are going to make X amount of money if you pay
them and Y amount of membership money, and
dont deliver, then THAT would be a scam. Further, if PWS promised to pay you X for each person you sign up and fail to send you a check when your downline is 150 deep, then that would be a scam.
We have yet to see that happen. As a matter of fact, PWS is quite prompt with their payment of earned commissions. We have FULL access to their resources. And as with any business, online or off, they have never guaranteed the amount of money
we would be making. So we dont see scam. YET!
I say yet because things can change. But until they do, we will continue to implement what PWS has to offer into our own strategy.
Now, if you have not taken a look at Pro Wealth Solutions, do so now. It is free to evaluate. Of course our mantra: DONT SIGN UP FOR ANYTHING THAT YOU DONT UNDERSTAND. You are just signing up so that you have access to what PWS has to offer.
HOW THE PRO PROFIT TEAM IS USING PWS TO MAKE $1,000s
Pro Wealth Solutions offers several what they term Income Streams. The idea behind these income streams is for the member, in addition to signing people up, to have multiple products to sell which will help you put cash into your pocket while you grow your business. Here are the income streams:
PWSMortgageCo.Com
BetterCreditToday.net
Credit Card Processing
Real Estate Training
And several other training pieces that you are licensed to reproduce and sell in any creative way your little heart desires.
I come from a real estate investment background. So when I saw the Pro Wealth Mortgage Business, it clicked for us. After carefully assessment, and of course extreme due diligence, (I had to speak to whoever was going to be originating the
loans, I had to find out the legality of what they were doing, and other
loan industry questions like how they handle appraisals, notary issues, origination fees, funding time lines etc.)
The rest was easy! All of our executive members at The Pro Profit Team have since refinanced our homes and investment properties through PWS. The bank that PWS has the relationship with is a publicly traded FDIC insured Bank. Not a mortgage broker. So there are no brokerage fees. I got a better interest rate than I had on a 4-plex that I own and they were able to save me about $800 bucks on my monthly mortgage payment.
Because we are customers, it is truly an easy sell. All of my friends and family are using PWSmortgageCo.com. They are that good!
Our strategy is to present PWSMortgageCo.com to as many people as we can within our community. We have a great strategy that targets hard working class people (like myself). The sell is the most soft sell in the world! It works like this:
Hey Homeowner, Check these guys out. (give them the info) I just recently refinanced my house with the people and they saved me $800. They may be able to save you some money as well!
Or
Hello stranger in the pub I overheard you talking about your home, you should check these guys out, they have some of the best interest rates Ive seen lately.
You wouldnt believe me if I told you how well these two strategies work! I have yet to meet a homeowner
who wouldnt like to save money on their mortgage. Here is the phrase that is worth $1,000 almost every time you speak it:
They may or may not be able to save you money. Its definitely worth checking into!
Its that easy! This is not a potion made from some fruit from New Guinea. This is not a super vitamin, this is not set of motivational tapes, this is not protein powder. This is a Mortgage!
EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO BUY A HOME NEEDS A MORTGAGE!
(Unless you are independently wealthy and are paying cash for your home; In which case you dont need a program like Pro Wealth Solutions!)
EVERYONE WHO CURRENTLY HAS A MORTGAGE WOULD LIKE TO SAVE MONEY ON THEIR MONTHLY
PAYMENT! GUARENTEED! WITHOUT EXCEPTION!
That is very VERY POWERFUL!
You can take a free tour of the Pro Wealth Solutions Income streams at:
www.Passport2Profits.com
Making Money from Websites, Jobs, Online
Making Money
online using
your PC which is connected
to the Internet at home by building a Website has never been easier. When you build a Website that has enough visitors, say 1000 visitors per day, you can make decent money from Affiliate programs and advertising agencies who advertise for their clients and look for publishers, ie Websites on the Internet.
Affiliate Programs (or Associates as some programs call them) make money by referring their site's visitors to the Affiliate program Website (e.g. amzon.com). Your site will be
provided with a special ID and whenever a visitor of you site clicks on the affiliate ad, that ID is passed to the Affiliate program manager. Now, how you get paid
differs from Affiliate to another.
Some Affiliates pay you when your visitors buy products from their sites, others, pay you for clicking on ads shown at your site.
This site will help you build your online business by showing you how and where to start this new
invention in your life. We recommend assessing your own capabilities of building a Website, investigate buying one if your skills or more with marketing rather than technical.
We also explore with you the techniques of writing a professional CV to find the best paying job. The
job interview secrets, typical questions and answers are also revealed. We help you with your body language when you go for a Job Interview up the level of describing the best handshake.
Building your wealth has many avenues. Your job savings should be invested in the right way.
The first way to accumulate wealth and become rich is to wipe your debt. Click here to find the simple way to invest your saving.
Hala Amereh is financila advisor. She concluded a new website called
http://www.money-from-website.com that summarises here experience in
makting money the simple way.
Pooches in Pictures; How Hollywood influences the dogs we bring home
No actor wants
to share the stage with a dog,
for he will undoubtedly be upstaged. Its all but impossible
to watch a dog movie without falling head over heels into puppy love. Consider Mom, the warm-hearted Border Collie from the 1995 blockbuster Babe. There was nary a dry eye in the theater as she watched her pups sold. Disneys 101 Dalmations left an audience crying (as Cruella), I want those puppies! Even television commercials tug at our heart-strings. Dinky started a Chihuahua craze the world over as the spokes-dog for Taco Bell, while Spuds Mackenzie ushered in a new generation of Budweiser Beer drinkers. There is no doubt about it; the media has great influence over pet popularity, particularly those of the canine persuasion. In itself, this isnt a terrible thing, but when it comes to choosing a pet for
your family, Hollywood can spell disaster!
Just imagine a couple going to a movie
featuring a cute child. On screen the child is humorous, attractive, and clever. It never gets into trouble, except when it is funny. Imagine the couple falling in love with this on-screen child, going so far as deciding to have a
baby of their own, without taking any of the complications of child-rearing into consideration.
They dont expect to have any troubles with their childthey naturally expect it to resemble the child from the movie.
Sound ridiculous?
Now imagine that same couple six months after their baby is born. They are now trying to find a family to adopt their child. It takes up too much room, and they cant leave it home by itself while they work all day. They had no idea how much money it cost to feed and diaper it, not to mention the doctor bills! The baby demands too much attention, and over all, they cant take anymore crying.
This same scenario happens over and over again every time Hollywood releases a dog movie. Dont get me wrong, I love a good dog movie as much as the next canine enthusiast, but there are good reasons Sandi Dreimel of TheDogInformant.com sites this as one of the four worst reasons for getting a dog.
The next time you think about bringing home Rin-tin-tin remember: Dogs are great stars, and often several dogs share one role. Nine different dogs have played the part of Lassie since it first premiered in 1943. These dogs are trained by
experts for years before they are accepted on the set. Special tricks and effects can give animals human-like qualities. But real pets are only tooreal, and individuals end up disappointed when the pet they purchased doesnt behave like their screen counterpart. Disappointment quickly turns to annoyance and sometimes can even become abuse.
Besides expert training, many Hollywood dogs require extensive care. Frequently films will feature rare and exotic breeds that are difficult to care for. Take our little talking tacquito friend. Chihuahuas, while smart and affectionate, need careful socialization to keep them from becoming suspicious of strangers, jealous, and even aggressive! Their tiny frames, while adorable, make them vulnerable to injuries. All of these traits make Chihuahuas an unsuitable companion for children, but these arent traits generally advertised on Taco Bells commercials. However they should
definitely be taken into consideration before bringing home Tacos twin.
At times Hollywood has actually created a breed boom with a movie. Unfortunately this instant popularity can attract the wrong crowd. There are irresponsible breeders out there who are more interested in making money than careful breeding. Their negligence can result in animals of poor health, bad temperament, and inferior structure. Sadly these breeders are everywhere. It may take a little research to buy a purebred, something impulse buyers, like those influenced by the latest Hollywood trend are unlikely to do.
What happens to these pooches when people become bored
or disillusioned with them? Too often yesterdays fads become a burden on shelters and rescue groups struggling to place forsaken pets. Roughly 60% of animals in shelters are eventually euthanized. So, before you go looking for that Lassie look-alike, remember that choosing a pet is a lifestyle choice, not a fashion statement. Think through your decision, realizing that dogs require time, money, and a lifetime commitment. (Most dogs live between 10 and 15 years.) If your child has her heart set on Pongos stunt double, consider buying her the DVD, or better yet, a stuffed animal. And if you do decide to get a dog, make sure you read up on its breed, spend time with it, talk to real dog owners, and set realistic expectations for yourself and your new pet. Theres a reason dogs are known as mans best friend. But as with people, choose your friends with care!
Emma Snow an animal lover works in marketing for Dog Pound
http://www.dog-pound.net and Horse Stall
http://www.horse-stall.net leading portals for pet management.
Grooming Your Shih-Tzu
"It's HARD to
be so beautiful...."
I am not going to attempt to put together a grooming page on how to SHAVE your shih-tzu, as much as
it is requested.
After giving it careful thought,
I believe this should be
left to the pros.
I know you THINK you will save a bundle, but you won't.
First you need a proper grooming table.
You need proper shears (nothing under $100.), proper scissors and proper blades and a LOT of practice.
You will need a good vet on standby to suture your dog
when you fillet it or cut it with the clippers, particularly around the eyes and under arms.
The razor burns you will cause until you
do your first
25 cuts will be painfully excruciating to the poor dog.
I think you should bush your dog every day,
should wash your dog once a week,
and go to a groomer every 3 months.
Nails should be cut as needed.
Recent finding state dogs
may live as long as 20 years
with proper diet and having it's teeth cleaned regularly.
To do daily care:
Tools you will need;
* Pin brush-around $15-$25 get a good one with No balls on the tips. Balls on the tips break the hair.
* Metal comb, fine and medium
* Rat tail comb~for making the part down the back and making the top knot
* Slicker
brush curved~for brushing undercoat
* Finishing spray or spray conditioner
Lay doggie down on her
side, get her used to this at a young age. Lightly spray
coat and start brushing with long smooth strokes, start on underside and work up her side to her back in layers. Each layer is gently brushed and little knots are worked out with your fingers. Don't rip through knots or pup will never trust you to brush her like
this. After you have gone up her entire side, turn her over and brush the other side same way. Now turn her on her back and brush her tummy, careful attention to armpits where snarls form. I clip mine here to avoid problems later. Next make her stand, and go through her entire coat with the metal combs making sure you did not miss any spots, use medium comb first, then fine metal comb. Next make top knot: Part hair with
plastic rat tail comb from eye corner back across ears and then across head to other side. I tie this up with a soft tiny band for everyday. Don't make it too tight or it will make the eyes "bug" out and bother the dog. Ba!
nd it about 1 inch from scalp and then take a few hairs in the middle and holding these, push the top knot down to the scalp. This makes the top knot poof in the front. Next comb face "furnishings" these are the mustache and the beard~use the plastic comb for this, never brush this area or you may injure the eyes. Lastly, take rat tail comb and part the hair down the middle of the back to the tail. You can also use a knitting needle for this. Finish the dog with a light spray again all over avoid eyes, and gently brush the coat down with the pin brush. Poofy feets can be fluffed up with he slicker brush. Sometimes I also use the slicker brush on the undercoat when I am brushing the layers but don't brush too hard or you will scratch your baby. A small reward ends the grooming session. Either a kiss and praise and a small tidbit for being good.
Shampoo your shih tzu once a week if you can. Clean dogs do not matt as fast. Brush her/ groom everyday!!!!!! If she is in long coat you may have to do this 2 times a day. Puppy coats start to "blow" around 6-8 months old, and they get their big doggie fur. Then you have to brush, brush, brush, or you will have a matted dog. The blowing of the puppy coat lasts about 6 weeks...then it gets better. Most people get their shih tzu clipped around this time 7-8 months old because of this.
Good shampoos for shih tzu: My favorite is Pet Silk moisturizing shampoo and conditioner...recently I tried this following shampoo and it was nice for a change. But I still like Pet Silk the best. You can buy it at
http://Cherrybrook.com just type in Pet Silk in the search and it will come up.
~Shampoo Tip for Minimizing Mats~
from the Momma of Sugar Bear and Huny B Bear
Does your furbaby tend to get mats easily? This isa great shampoo.
I use it on Sugar Bear and also on Huny who each have different texture coats and it works
equally as well on both dogs. This is a people shampoo and it is a bit expensive, but you don't
have to buy a conditioner so it evens out. The shampoo is called Physique~Shampoo + Conditioner.
It comes in a silver cylinder bottle, you can buy it at stores like KMart or big discount stores.
Wash your shih tzu with this shampoo and do not apply conditioner as it is already in the shampoo.
Gently work in in and let the silky foam work into the hair. Rinse well. I use this shampoo/conditioner
all the time and it tends to build up in the hair. It is a good idea to use a vinegar/water rinse (1/2 cup white vinegar to a quart of water) every third bath and work this into the hair to clean out the build up on the hair shaft. Work this rinse through the hair, rinse well, then shampoo. You will notice that the blow dry is easier and the upkeep on the hair is much easier with less matting and snarls.
Compliments of Lynne The BOW Lady
SHOW BOWS AVAILABLE DIRECTLY FOR SALE By special order on her site
http://www.doggiebowties.comKaren DeAngelo has been a shih-tzu breeder since 1986 and has won 2006 and 2007 for Best Shih-Tzu pictures on the www from
http://DogLovers.com
Should You Get A Dog?
So the time has come and
you are thinking of buying a new pet.
http://www.petmillions.com is the leading pet contest online supporting pet charities across the globe. Dogs and cats remain the most popular household pet, with 39% of US households owning at
least 1 dog and 6.1 million in the UK. However every year close to 20% of animals
find their way into animal shelters.
It's true what they say - dogs are mans best friend. They have qualities that cats simply don't. Dogs are intelligent, faithful and fun, unlike cats they will take up a lot more time and energy. Depending on the size of your dog
you may also find they take up more space are quite expensive to look after.
So is a dog right for you? Here is the
http://www.petmillions.com checklist...
Q) Are you out most of the day?
Q) Are you buying this dog for teenage children?
Q) Are you elderly and buying a puppy?
Q) Do you live in a flat or small house with no garden?
Q) Do you live in a city or area with little green/outdoor spaces?
Q) Do you have a limited income?
Q) Do you move around a lot?
If you answered yes to most of these questions you need to rethink having a dog.
So what do dogs need?
http://www.petmillions.com offers some key things you need to remember if taking a dog as a pet.
Companionship - to
be with other dogs or people and not to be left alone for too long.
A balanced and nutritious diet, and the occasional bone from the butcher or left over from sunday lunch to gnaw on
A constant supply of fresh, clean water, which is easily accessible to the dog
A bed, blanket and toys such as ball, dog rope and chew bones. Visit
http://www.petmillions.com for loads of pet retailers and offers.
A strong fenced garden to play and exercise in, the bigger the dog the bigger the garden. the key is if they can't run and have to pant the garden is probably not big enough.
Short and Long hair dogs need to be brushed and groomed, at least once a day.
Like humans dogs need to see the vet dentist.
Regular walks and a lead for walking near traffic or
farm animals.
Dog mess is pretty awful, but you MUST pick it up with a pooper-scooper.
Never leave a dog in an enclosed space like a car or small room, even with the window open.
A collar with identity tag Plus vet microchip.
To be properly trained.
To be neutered,if you want a puppy remember you won't get just one with your dog and pregnancy will be costly!
To be taken to a vet if they are ill.
Regular and necessary injections to prevent serious diseases.
Worming and regular flea treatments.
To be looked after
when you are on holiday by a professional career or someone who can give your dog the time and attention it needs.
So if you think you have what it takes to look after a dog, then go for it and remember an animal shelter is a good place to start. Please vote for Coco in th epetmillions contest -
http://www.petmillions.com/vote.asp?vote=1033 you will be supporting charities and animal shelters across the globe PLUS you can get a chance to win up to a $1,000,000 in cash!
Henry Jackson hails from Ill. and has a brace of beautiful retrievers, including Coco. You can vote for Coco in the petmillions.com pet phot contest - her pet ID is 1033 (
http://www.petmillions.com/vote.asp?vote=1033)
Where To Get Money For A Franchise Idea
How often
have you thumbed through a business opportunity magazine, noticed a franchise opportunity advertisement, and felt you'd really like to get in on that...if only you had the money? If you're like most who are seeking greater opportunity and wealth, this probably happens
with you more often than you care to admit, except perhaps in strictly private conversations.
When the average person sees one of these opportunities, or comes up with a
similar idea of his own, the problems of start-up capital may seem formidable. But in reality, they may not be. In fact,
just about anyone with a good credit record and an "insider's sense of business" can get the capital he or she needs, whenever it's needed. The secret is in knowing how to put together a proper proposal, and to present it to the right per son. These are the "how-to" instructions we're going to give you in this report.
The first thing you're going to need is a complete business plan. This is a complete and detailed description of exactly how you intend to operate the proposed business. Your business plan
should detail precisely the product or products you plan to sell; how you're going to produce or manufacture the product; your costs (inventory costs if you're purchasing them from a supplier); who is going to sell those products
for you; how they're going to
be sold; the attendant costs; when you expect to recoup your initial investment; your plans for growth or expansion; and the total dollar amount you're going to need to make it all work according to your plan. Your business plan must be detailed - complete with projected income and expense figures - through at least the first three years of business.
Now, assuming you have your business plan all worked out, put together and ready for presentation with your request for capital, let's talk about your capitalization proposal.
First, keep in mind that whenever you ask somebody for money, whether it's for a small personal loan or a large amount of money to finance a business, you're involved in a selling situation. You have to prepare a "sales presentation" just as if you were getting ready to sell an automobile or refrigerator. Within this sales presentation you must have all the facts and figures; you must anticipate the questions and the possible objections of the prospective lender with answers or explanations; and you must "package" it as impressively as you would yourself for an audience with the president of IBM or General Motors.
The more money you ask for, the more "in-the-know" will be the people you want to borrow from, and so the more detailed and organized your proposal must be. This shouldn't cause you too much worry however, because you can hire a CPA to help you put it together properly, once you've got the facts and have a business plan he can work from. See Http://workathomecoop.com
Look at it this way: The more money you request for your business, the more your lenders or prospective investors are going to want to know about you, your planning, and your business. They want to be impressed with the fact that you've done your homework; they want to see that you've researched everything and documented your facts and figures; they want to be assured by your presentation that investing in your business will make money for them. It's just that simple at the bottom line. Unless you can instill confidence in them with your business plan and loan or investment proposal, they're just not going to give much positive thought to your request for capitalization.
So you'll need a balance sheet describing your net worth - the worth of what you own compared to the amount of money you owe. You'll also have to prove your stability and money-management talents relative to how successful you've been in paying
off past obligations. If you have had credit problems in the past, get them "cleaned up", or at least explained on your file at your local credit bureau office. Under the law, credit bureaus are required to give you all the information they have about you in their files, and it's your right to correct any errors or enter explanations regarding negative reports on your credit. Do this without fail because prospective lenders or investors will definitely check your credit history.
So, now you have your balance sheet prepared; your credit history organized in a light that's favorable to you; your business plan (with costs and income projected over the coming three years), you're ready to start looking for lenders or investors.
Almost all franchisors offer help in setting up with one of their franchises. Most will go out of their way to assist you in getting the financing you need. Some will lend you the entire amount, with payments coming out of the income they expect you to make from their franchise operation. Many will carry this loan themselves, while
others will carry part of it and find you a lender to finance the remainder.
Franchisors have two objectives in mind when they offer franchises to the public: They are trying to expand their operation, thus increasing their profit, and they are trying to raise capital for themselves. Generally speaking, if you have a good credit history, and if they feel you have the necessary business personality to achieve success with one of their operations, they'll do everything within their power to get you in a franchise outlet. Keep this in mind the next time you see an advertisement for a promising franchise opportunity requiring a substantial amount of cash outlay. You don't necessarily have to have all the money. They want you, and they'll help you!
Many people seem to be unaware that most of today's largest corporations started on a shoestring - on borrowed money. Many people seem to feel that unless they've got it all "in hand" in savings, then they'll just have to keep plugging away until they can save up enough to take the big plunge. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Just a quick bit of research will show that 999 out of every 1,000 businesses were begun on borrowed money.
Look to your family and friends for financial help. Approach them in a business-like manner; tell them about your idea or plans, and ask them for a loan. Agree to sign a formal statement to pay them back in three, five or ten years, with interest.
When you have your proposal assembled, you might even want to think of a limited partnership or even a general partnership arrangement as a way to finance your project. In any kind of partnership, each partner shares in the profits of the company, but in a limited partnership, each person's loss liability is limited to the amount of money he initially invested. The truth is, in this kind of a situation, you'll be doing all the work and sharing your gain with your partners, but then it's a fairly sure way to obtain needed financing.
Another common method of obtaining business financing is through second mortgage loans on a home or existing piece of property. Say you purchased a home ten years ago for $35,000, and today the assessed valuation is $85,000, with a mortgage of $25,000 still outstanding. A lender may consider your home to be security or collateral for a loan up to $60,000. In many instances, this is the easiest and surest way of getting the money needed for franchise or other business investment. And, it makes sense; you've got "net worth" available that is doing nothing but sitting there. Take this equity and invest it in a worthwhile business, and you could double or triple your net worth each year for the rest of your life.
Deciding to obtain a second mortgage on your home in order to finance a business opportunity is without doubt a major decision, but if you are sure about your investment project, and are determined to succeed, you owe it to yourself to go ahead. You could incorporate yourself, borrow money from your family through a second mortgage on your home, and protect against the loss of your home through the Federal Home stead Act. The important point here is that all business opportunities involve risk and sacrifice. It's up to you to
determine the feasibility of your success with your proposed venture, then decide on the best way possible to proceed.
In every instance where you run into reluctance on the part of a lender to lend you the money you need, explore the feasibilities of "two-name" or "co-signed" loans. You can have the franchisor sign with you, or one of your suppliers, a business associate or even a friend. Oftentimes you can borrow or rent collateral such as stocks, bonds, time certificates, business equipment or real estate, and in this way give greater confidence to the lender in you r abilities to repay the loan. Whenever you can show a contract from someone who has agreed to purchase a certain number of your products or services over a specified period of time, you have another important piece of paper that most lenders will accept as collateral. Still an other possibility might be to get a bank or a firm that has loaned you money in the past to guarantee your loan. They simply guarantee that they'll lend you money in the future if ever the need should arise.
Going straight to you neighborhood bank, applying for a business loan and walking out with the money is just about the most unlikely of all your possibilities. Banks want to lend money, and they must lend money in order to stay in business, but most banks are notoriously conservative and extremely reluctant to lend you money unless you have a "regular income" that "guarantees" repayment. If and when you approach a bank for a business loan, you'll need all your papers in order - your financial statement, your business plan, credit history and all the endorsements you can get relative to your succeeding with your planned enterprise. In addition, it would be a good idea to take along your accountant just to assure the banker that your plan is verifiable. In the end, you'll find that it all boils down to whether or not the bank officer studying your application is sold on you as a good credit risk. Thus you must impress the banker - not only with your proposal, but with your appearance and personality as well. In dealing with bankers, never show an attitude of doubt or apology. Always be positive and sure of yourself. However, don't come on so strong to them that you're either demanding or overbearing. Just look good, know your stuff, and project an attitude of determination to succeed.
Your best bet, in attempting to get a business loan from a bank, is to deal with commercial banks. These are the banks that specialize in investment loans for going businesses, real estate construction, and even venture programs. Look in the yellow pages of your telephone or business directories; call and ask for an appointment with the manager; and then explore with him the possibilities of a loan for your project. One of the "nice things" about commercial banks is that even though they may not be able to approve a loan for your business ideas, they will almost always give you a list of names of business people who might be interested in looking over your proposal for investment purposes.
A lot of commercial banks stage investment lectures and seminars for the general public. If you find one that does, attend. You'll meet a lot of local business people, some of whom may be able to and interested in helping you with your business plans.
When you're looking for money to move on a business deal, it does not really matter where the money comes from, or how it all comes about. It's important that you get the money, and at terms that are suitable to you. Thus, don't overlook the possibilities of an advertisement for a lender or investor in your local papers. Place your ad as well in national publications reaching people looking for investments. Other avenues to seriously consider are foundations that offer grants, local dental and medical investment groups, legal investment groups, business associations, trust companies and other groups or organizations looking for tax shelters.
Basically, it isn't a good idea to go to a finance company or other commercial lender of this type for a business loan. The most obvious reason is the high interest rates you have to pay. These companies borrow money from larger money lenders, and then turn around and lend it to you at a higher interest rate than they pay. Herein lies the means by which they make money from granting loans to you. The more it costs them to provide the money for you, the more it's going to cost you to borrow their money. The only element in your favor when borrowing from one of these agencies is that most will generally lend you money against collateral other lenders just won't accept. Insurance companies, pension funds, and commercial paper houses are not too out of sight with their interest rates, but they generally will not even consider talking to you unless you're requesting $500,000 or more. They'll also pretty much require that your business proposal be backed by the best possible plan.
Finally, the bottom line is this: You must have a well-researched and detailed business plan; you must have all your documents and projections put together in an impressive presentation; and then, you will have to be the one who does the final selling of your proposal to the investor or lender. This means your appearance, personality and attitude, because - make no mistake about it - before anyone lends you any size able amount of money, they're going to want to take a close look at you personally before they hand over the money.
Actually, the different ways of financing a franchise opportunity are as many and varied as your own creativity. The sources of obtaining money are virtually limitless, and available to anyone with an idea.
One word of caution before you jump into any franchise purchase agreement: The price you pay to participate in a franchise operation is not always the total cost involved in getting the business off the ground. With some franchise operations, you may find other costs such as down payments on the purchase of property, building construction costs, remodeling or site improvements, equipment, fixtures, signs, advertising, and training. Virtually all franchise deals require that in addition to the purchase price or the license fee of the franchise, you're required to give a certain percentage of your gross business income to the franchisor, plus extra payments for promotion and administrative costs. Above all else, before you get involved in a franchise, or any business venture for that matter, make sure you've conducted a complete and thorough investigation of the opportunity presented. If it's a good deal, then go with it; but if you have any doubts or feel as though you're getting in over your head, back off and look around for something not quite so ambitious, or perhaps expensive.
There are a lot of good franchise opportunities, and some not so good. It's important that you be sure of what you're investing in, and that you can make money with it. From there, preparing the proper business plan and the necessary financing, while not always a snap, can be done. Now's the time to do it! We wish you outstanding success with your franchise business.
Andrew Adams writes for
http://www.magfranchise.org where you can find out more about franchising and other topics.
Show Me the Money: How to Own Your Book's Financial Success
How
much money would you like
to earn from
your book, I ask my client.
From her facial reaction, I know that
the question resonates as if I am asking how much her child is worth. It is challenging to most writers to think
in terms of dollars and cents.
Thats why I ask.
The romantic myth that money somehow sullies the creative process is, in reality, a bigger obstacle to
your publication goals than not having an agent. Its not that your goal has to be to get rich from your book, although that is a perfectly fine goal to have. Its that understanding the ebb and flow of money in your publishing life creates a positive perception about you as an author prospect. When you have
defined expectations, you project confidence, commitment and focus.
To clarify your financial focus, I offer three questions to help you center on where you are today, and three questions to help you establish your financial goals.
1. What is your motivation for writing the book? How
will the book serve your career and/or life purpose?
2. How do you promote your image now? Do you do workshops or publish articles?
3. What are your long-term career goals as a writer? Currently, is writing a hobby or a business? Do you report your
income and/or expenses on your income tax?
Here are three questions to help you establish your financial goals.
1. Identify two books that are similar to yours in your publishing category. What is the LIST (cover) price of each one? Assume it is a hard cover book and that you would receive a 10% list royalty from the publisher (for paperback, assume a 7.5% royalty). Then, calculate how much you would earn if the book sold 5,000 copies, 7,500 copies, and so on.
2. Using the amount you would like to earn as a guide, how much of that money would you like to retain as income and how much are you willing to invest in publicity or direct selling, independent of what the publisher plans to do for your book?
3. Given what you plan to invest in the marketing and promotional effort and in the time you will invest in writing the book, what is the ideal advance amount you would like to negotiate with the publisher?
Every editor comes to the contract negotiation with numbers in mind. He or she has made a decision about the market value of your work. If you do the same, you are in the position to have thorough discussion about mutual expectations. Make a list of the
items that are most important to you.
Finally, make a financial calendar that will help you visualize when you will be incurring expenses versus when you anticipate receiving your advance payments or income from other sources.
Whether you are an author with a commercial publisher or you are self-publishing, you have the power to make your project a financial success on your terms.
Believe in yourself, your talent and your ability to value your work. Now, go forth and prosper.
C 2006 Melissa A Rosati
Melissa A Rosati is a publishing coach, a contributing editor, Novel Writer magazine and a professor of publishing, Pace University, NYC.
Parvovirus A Very Realistic Threat To Your Dogs Health
Parvovirus was first identified in 1977 and
can infect dogs of all ages, but usually strikes young unvaccinated puppies under the age of
6 weeks. Most puppies acquire temporary parvo-destroying antibodies
by ingesting them through their mothers first milk, (colostrums). Puppies should be vaccinated starting at 6
to 9 weeks of age, and then every three weeks until they reach 16 weeks. Afterwards, yearly boosters are recommended.
Veterinarians can now test for the presence of parvovirus in their own clinics. Symptoms include loss of appetite, persistent vomiting, and profuse, odiferous diarrhea, often streaked with blood. In dogs, the lining of the intestines, lymph nodes, and bone marrow are the main target areas for Parvo. In puppies less than 6 weeks of age, the virus can infect heart cells, causing irreparable damage to the heart.
Certain breeds seem more prone to
Parvo, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Pit Bulls, and
German Shepherds, but scientists do not know why. Parvo
is highly contagious, and is spread by oral contact with infected feces. Keep your dog
away from other dogs with unknown vaccination status, and from areas where such dogs congregate.
If you board your dog, make sure that the owner/instructor requires proof of vaccination for all their
customers. Do not take you unvaccinated or unprotected puppy to pet stores or parks until it is fully protected. Prevent your dog from coming in contact with feces, and always observe good hygiene at home. You can disinfect daily with a 1 to 30 ratio of chlorine bleach to water mixture. Parvo is much less common than it was 20 years ago but we still cannot completely eliminate the risk completely.
Remember, if you have further questions about Parvovirus or any other health issue, or if you think your dog has symptoms of a serious illness, be sure to contact your veterinarian at once. Your veterinarian can explain and break
down and explain any issue and or questions you may have.
Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed
http://Joncopets.com. On the site, customers can shop for the latest dog collars, dog clothes, pet supplies and more. Check them out at
http://www.joncopets.com
The Working Parent's Home Office--Organization for Success
The Working Parents Home Office Organization for Success
If youre a parent that works at home, you already know about the ongoing conflict between your business and your family obligations. Home
based businesses
are rapidly becoming the norm in our world of high technology. As a parent, this is great news, as it allows you to be in the
house with your kids while still creating a necessary income. So, when combining your work life with your home life, how do you find the proper balance, so each can be stable and successful? To begin with you need to have the correct tools at your disposal for whatever your work at home business is.
While this may sound easy, the lack of organization can be a death knell to your home based business. Beyond strong organization, youll also need to be able to communicate with your family effectively, set limitations, prioritize your day, stick to your commitments, and learn how to be flexible. Sounds like a lot, doesnt it? Its not only possible, its very manageable, and while the balance will rarely be perfect, optimizing your schedule and your office will lead you to not only a stronger business but a stronger family unit, as well. The following steps will help get you started:
Communication
Whether youre running an internet home based business or another type of work at home career, start with communication. Explain to your family what your home based business will require in order for it be
streamlined. This is all about expectations, and may include establishing protocol for interruptions, discussing your normal working hours, and basic rules to be followed. Be ready to listen, question, and explain every detail fully.
Organization
Its essential to have the proper tools in order to work at home successfully. Be sure to have a strong internet connection (especially if you have an internet home based business), a dedicated telephone (it can be a cell phone), a place to keep files and notes so you can find them quickly, and a way of organizing your incoming work.
Limitations
Your family is
important and they are probably the main reason youre in a home based business to begin with. However, your children need to understand youre working even if youre only in the next room. Youll need to set limitations with them so they know how to approach you in non-emergency circumstances.
You could designate a signal that will visually tell them you cannot be interrupted unless it is an emergency. This can be as simple as a closed door or a sign you
hang outside of your office.
Prioritize
Invest in a calendar, whether the old-fashioned type or computer software, to use as a planning tool. This is one of the most important steps you can take if you work at home, because you need a place to pencil (or type) in appointments, school activities, deadlines, etc. Get into the habit of updating your planning tool throughout each day so you can set your priorities well in advance.
Commitment
If you tell your son that youll be at his soccer game be there. If you tell a business associate you will be available to talk on a certain day and time, make sure you are. Your word is important within your family and your business so unless something happens that you cannot control, live up to what you say. If you do have to break a commitment, be open and honest about it and be ready with an alternate plan. If this happens it is essential that the alternate plans you made are adhered to.
Flexibility
As with anything in life, learning to be flexible will save you, your family, and your home based business unnecessary stress. Things happen in life, try to find different solutions and different methods when issues pop up.
A work at home office can truly make a difference in narrowing the gap between career and family, especially if the office is organized and the expectations with your family are firmly in place. Combined, it will allow you to remain the stabilizing force you need to be both in your home based business and in your family.
Ruby
River is the proud owner of an established home business whose business affiliate is one of the oldest and continues to be the most successful within the billion-dollar personal development community. A genuine business opportunity promoting financial and emotional change is available without hype. Success is a Choice.
Serious, entrepreneur minded, visit
http://www.livegreatlife.com
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