THE CAT’S MEOW

FOR WRITER’S & READERS

Issue 08, Vol. 05

© July 10, 2005

“THE CAT’S MEOW FOR WRITERS & READERS”

Newsletter/Ezine: ISSN: 2237-65

Published by Rosanne Catalano, (a/k/a R.C.Kayla)

Writer/Author and Ezine Chief Editor,

For Her Official Author Web Site – http://www.rosannecatalano.net

Editor and Proofreader: Nancy Peckford,

Technical Writer/Author, Web Designer and Assistant,

Nancy’s Web Site – http://webwriterworx.tripod.com

Our Subscriber list is NOT made available to others.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S CORNER:

by Rosanne Catalano – www.rosannecatalano.net

My dear readers, Hope you’re all are having a wonderful summer so far…

Let’s see… a day after my birthday in June, came down with what I thought was a bad cold until the fever came…you would think I was sick enough during the wintertime (flu, bronchitis and pneumonia!) but, no, due to my smoking cigarettes I now have a respiratory infection, which it turned out to be… being sick in the summertime is definitely no picnic… so that is what I will be going through now – Quitting cigarettes for my health – and it is not going to be easy (been smoking over 30 years) but it is TIME TO QUIT…will let you all know how my quitting cigarettes goes. Had tried after getting sick the months of January and March but to no avail… that doesn’t mean I won’t be successful this time; as the old adage says, “Try, try, and try again until you succeed,” not only true for me but for everyone!

Other than that, am having a wonderfully relaxing summer… lots of barbecuing out back with my sweetheart and sometimes the in-law’s, which is what summertime is all about. And still debating whether I should have the long-awaited knee surgery (to repair a torn cartilage in my left knee) this month on the 13^th or postpone it for the wintertime when most people are ‘indoors’ anyways…

Enough about me (as I write this, I am still ‘deciding’ about the knee surgery even though my knee has begun to buckle; will let my dear readers know next month whether or not I went through with it)… please do enjoy this issue of The Cat’s Meow for Writers & Readers wherein all my wonderful contributing authors have very important helpful, safety tips for enjoying the rest of your summer, and staying safe outdoors… See you all next month!

written and published by Rosanne Catalano

(aka R.C.Kayla)

writer/author and ezine chief editor

http://www.rosannecatalano.net

“The Cat’s Meow for Writers & Readers” ezine chief editor

© July 10, 2005

EDITOR’S CORNER:

by Nancy Peckford – webwriterworx.tripod.com

Will RETURN in December 2005.

© July 10, 2005 by Nancy Peckford

technical writer/author, web designer and assistant

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NAME OF AUTHOR TITLE OF ARTICLE

Reginald Knowl “Swimming Pool Protection Guidelines”

Suzanne Falter-Barns “How to Sign with a Literary Agent”

Chezza Lening “That Darn Sugar and How it Affects Us”

August Niginnie “Religion as Controversy”

Mochi Zersto “Some Science Behind What’s in Your Morning Cup of Coffee”

Gebb Betrin “Medical History Coding How To”

Carl Traidden “Taking the Plunge, Into an RV Loan”

Waldron Dunntt “Safety While Hiking”

Darlie Pothek “How to Make Giving a Part of Personal Finances”

Foley Prestino “How to Choose the Mortgage that’s Perfect for You”

Baceta Koken “Recipes – Our History, Our Heritage”

Girard Dinaggio “Gardening A to Z”

Dolce Domas “Home of My Heart”

Dr. Germein Shumer “Travel Tips for Arthritics”

Teague Derio “Everyday Use of The Phone”

Odette Dunoliva “Find Toys and Supplies For Your Pets on the Internet”

Rei Senchaes “Exercise – 6 Tricks to Staying Motivated”

Kerin Golesky “Insurance”

COFFEE HOUSE 4 POETS & WRITERS:

(Every Month Highlighting Artistic Talent)

FEATURED POET THIS MONTH: MICHELLE ANTOINETTE OBIE

Falling Down Like Rain

I'm crying long or dying too young?

I really don't know but when I wake up I feel

A lot of tears falling down like rain.

I feel heaven calling my name

I wonder is he asking for me now.

I'm not saying this because I'm lonely; I'm saying it because I'm dying alone.

I'm crying long or dying too young?

I really don't know, when I wake up I feel tears

Falling down like rain.

How can I fall again when I'm already down?

When there's no more love. How can I be free?

When I'm not happy but want to be…

I Will Not Cry

I will not cry under the blue moon

Unless my heart tells me so.

My love won’t last that long unless I'm free.

I will not cry until I'm set free.

I know I once lived my life the way he wanted me to

I will not cry unless my soul tells me so…

My heart wants to let me live life.

When You Said Goodbye

I saw you yesterday in my dreams you see.

I was wondering why you waved goodbye to me?

Is this my last time seeing you again?

Because if it is I'll tell you I don’t want to leave you again.

You say this is our time to say good bye,

You can't leave me now.

Please tell me this isn't true,

This isn't our time to say goodbye?

How can this be our last time saying goodbye?

When I just found you again…

I hope this isn't our time to say goodbye.

AUTHOR BIO:

Writing has always been a huge part of Michelle Antoinette Obie’s life in one way or another. Growing up wasn't always easy for her but she has learned that LIFE has its ups and downs, and that when you keep the Lord first the Lord will always bring you a blessing in disguise… so if you’re thinking about giving up on your dreams, don't because there is always someone there to encourage your dream and make you happy. If you were touched by Michelle’s poetry and would like to encourage her to write more, please contact her at michelleobie@bellsouth.net.

“Swimming Pool Protection Guidelines”

Written by Reginald Knowl – www.rkpool.com

Kids love to play in the water during the hot weather so many families buy a swimming pool for the back yard to keep the kids cool and happy. These pools range from a shallow splashing pool for toddlers to a large deep above-ground pool that even adults can enjoy.

Whatever your choice in at-home swimming pools, it is important to keep in mind that protective guidelines should be posted and followed for everyone’s protection. These are some of the more necessary or common guidelines:

1. Make sure the water alkaline level is suitable. Use the disposable color sticks that come with a home pool to check the alkaline level before each use, especially after adding water or chemicals. Don’t let anyone swim until the water is the right mixture to kill bacteria without hurting swimmers.

2. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen. The SPF rating of the sunscreen means Skin Protection Factor. The higher the SPF rating, the more that the sunscreen blocks harmful rays from the sun. Swimmers will need the most sunscreen between the hours of 10 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon when the sun is the most intense. Adults who are lounging by the pool should also protect their eyes from the sun by wearing quality sunglasses.

3. Make sure to have safety devices available. You need to have a lifesaver, poles and flotation devices close at hand to rescue anyone who begins to struggle. Small children should wear a child-size safety vest when in the water.

4. If you have a diving board, don’t let anyone dive who does not know how. Nor should there be any rough play around the pool, such as running, jumping, pushing, or other activity that could cause someone to fall, sink, or bump his or her head.

5. Swimmers should change out of their wet clothes soon after getting out of the water. Staying in the wet swimsuit can cause body rashes, skin irritations, and even fungal infections. Swimmers are urged to take a shower and change into a dry outfit as soon as possible.

6. Keep the pool covered during the winter season when the pool is not in use. Follow local laws regarding the type of fence needed around your pool. Children should never be left alone when they are near the pool whether or not they are swimming. Never means not for one single minute; that’s all it takes for a small child to fall in the pool.

A backyard swimming pool is a great source of family fun during the hot weather. With a little precaution and thought the pool can remain a fun spot all summer.

AUTHOR BIO:

Reginald Knowl knows about pools, his website is R K Pool. Have or thinking about a pool and need more information and want your questions answered, then visit: http://www.rkpool.com.

There’s more to finding a literary agent than just spewing a hundred letters out to a database. Most agents don’t even read mass produced letters. But they are always looking for new clients with great book ideas. Suzanne Falter-Barns’ article below tells you how to approach and impress…

“How to Sign with a Literary Agent”

Written by Suzanne Falter-Barns – www.getknownnow.com

If you’re interested in publishing a book and gaining a market presence and income from it, you’ll need a literary agent. They are the grease that keeps the oft-rusty wheels of publishing moving. Every day, they eat lunch or talk to editors and acquisition people in publishing houses all over the world, all the while pitching them on the new hot ‘properties’, as your manuscript will be called.

Generally speaking, you need an agent (though there are literary lawyers and others out there who would disagree with me.) I’ve had four agents, some fine, one useless, and one downright criminal (though eminently likeable.)

Here are some tips I can pass along that will help your search for this important part of your team.

Make sure you’re selling something marketable. It could be you’re the only person out there who wants to read about your Aunt Tillie’s days as a pickle packer. Before you approach an agent, find out what problem your book solves and who it will appeal to. Research similar titles on Amazon.com and look for gaps in the marketplace. Go to bookstores and see what’s hot (and what’s not.) What’s not is on the remainder shelf; what’s hot is placed up front and center, with massive piles of the book in sight. Give an agent a good reason UP FRONT to get excited (before they even read your mss.)

Make sure your book idea or manuscript is in top shape. There is no substitute for excellence, it helps! You’ve got to have an awesome concept, and an even better title.

Make your book proposal as professional as possible (Book proposals are only for non-fiction books, those other than novels.) You’ll want to include a lot more than just what the book’s about. You’ll need to include any market research you’ve done on who’d buy the book, ideas for unusual places the books could be sold, or ways to tie it in with ‘special sales’ (that’s pub-speak for big wholesale orders) to certain industries, or connections with your workshops, speaking gigs, web site, etc.

You’ll also want to include an impressive bio, merchandising ideas, a sketch of the competitive marketplace and publicity ideas. (If this sounds daunting, worry not. See my blurb at the bottom.)

Establish your credibility. If you’re writing fiction, let them know you’ve either had unique life experiences that will make your book especially interesting to the media. (If you’re writing about your white water rafting exploits, did you have a great experience related to this you could spin on air?) If you’re writing non-fiction, are you a PhD or do you have a masters, or lots of great professional experience? It’s tougher to sell a great book written by someone who’s got no credentials in the field to back them up, but it can be done.

Hook up with a star. Can you get a celebrity endorsement, or a testimonial or foreword from a highly placed industry star? This will help an agent feel they can sell your work.

Find the niche no one has explored. They’re out there, even in your chosen field. This is especially true for non-fiction, though niches apply to both genres. The best niche comes from your own passions and interests, what’s really You?

Do not send your manuscript! Send a one page letter describing your project and why you are the person to write it, plus your proposal (non-fiction only) or a few sample chapters of your manuscript (fiction.) Offer to send the rest right away if they are interested. Make sure everything is spell-checked, double spaced, with correct margins, etc.

Hand pick the agents you submit to. DO NOT SEND MASS MAILINGS TO AGENTS. It won’t work, and is a waste of time and money. Instead, research who to approach and pick the 5, 10, 20 or so who actually sell your type of work. Agents stick to niches themselves, and one way to find that niche is in various resource guides like Writer’s Market, the LMP (Literary Market Place, in all big libraries), or the Writer’s Digest 2002 Guide to Literary Agents. (I have several other techniques I share in my Self Help Author’s Crash Course, which is on sale at the moment. See below.)

Make your letter great. Your pitch will be placed in a pile with the other cold submissions that arrived that day (maybe 25-50) and an assistant will thumb through them, spending about 10 seconds on each one. This means if you have a personal contact, you mention it in the first sentence. Trim your description of your book into a meaty, mouth-watering paragraph. Add a bit on why you are the person to write it. And BE SURE to let them know you hand picked them, out of all the agents out there, because of the great work they’ve done for authors X, Y and Z. In fact, you predict they will have similar success with your property, as they did with Book X they just sold to Q Publisher, etc. In other words, make it personal, a little witty, and smart.

Don’t use old contact info. And call to see that the agent you’re contacting is still at the address you have before sending anything.

Don’t ever pay an agent to evaluate your book. This is not how standard agents work, and is illegal.

Give the agent one month to evaluate your work. Then follow up by phone or email. Many will tell you how they like to be contacted in guides such as The Writer’s Market and those listed above. Continue to follow up, until such actions are ridiculous.

You’ll probably get some kind of response, especially if you’re letter is great.

Follow up and ask for referrals. If you’re lucky, you’ll get the intended agent on the phone. They may seem interested but just won’t commit. (A standard line is “I’m not taking on any new clients right now.”) So ask if they know any agents they might recommend, or someone who is expanding their operation.

Then send a thank you note if their info has been helpful. Agenting is a small world, and many people stay in it for life. They’ll remember when you reappear at their door years later. And this time it may open.

Be persistent. You may have to go through several lists of hand-picked agents, before you get the bite you need.

Work your personal connections. Be exhaustive, thinking of anyone you know who might connect you with other agents, or even authors. Most authors will want to see the project you’re pitching, and may not feel comfortable sharing their contact with you, but many may.

AUTHOR BIO:

For information on how to create your own publisher-ready book proposal that agents will sit up and pay attention to, drop by Suzanne’s site, http://www.getknownnow.com and get her free listing of 25 Top Shelf Help Literary Agents.

To reprint this article, please use with this bio box intact. Thanks!

“That Darn Sugar and How it Affects Us”

Written by Chezza Lening – www.radiet.com

For whatever reason Americans have definite problems when it comes to the types of food they consume. We suffer at both ends of the spectrum, from getting high on it, to feeling like we hit bottom, and all the areas in between. Heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are all raging out of control in America. Age has no bearing on who becomes obese, risking all the ailments that come with it.

In America, our overwhelmingly favorite food falls into the junk category. It’s hard for many of us to comprehend the idea of a diet, and we feel entitled to eat anything we want at any time. Instead of looking on food as a nutritional necessity to sustain life, we categorize it as a means to soothe our distress, and take the place of a friend when we’re lonely. We’re so used to eating poorly, especially when we’re on the go, that in order to change we would need to take drastic action.

Occasionally we watch the news and resolve to eat better. Usually our resolutions last for a few days, then we go back to our old habits of eating junk food. Before we know it we are one step closer to heart disease and diabetes. The reports about the dangers of our diets are not exaggerated. We are constantly surrounded by unhealthy food – at the grocery store, convenience stores, restaurants, work, and malls. Even the school systems have fallen prey to junk food trends.

Our nation is clearly addicted to sugar, but we seem to be in denial about it. We hear and read all about being hooked on alcohol, drugs, and smoking, but we don’t hear much about sugar. All the attention focused on obesity is in clear competition with the heavily sugared food and beverages we see advertised everyday. Just take a stroll down any aisle of your local grocery store and start reading labels. You will find sugar in practically everything; even seemingly innocent products like energy bars, breakfast cereal, and good old spaghetti sauce. If you’re wondering how you know when you’re addicted, take a good look at your life. You are addicted when anything you consume in abundance is affecting your life in an adverse way.

Eliminating all sugar is difficult, so consumers can try to look at the ‘sugars’ content on all ingredient labels, and look for foods whose sugar content in a serving is less than five grams. Americans should also try to eat more whole grains, fiber, and vegetables, and smaller amounts of fruit.

All addictions are a struggle, and sugar is certainly no exception. If you are a sugar addict, you can control your addiction. Just don’t allow yourself to be coerced into breaking your resolve by the marketing giants: grocery stores, restaurants, television ads, etc. You can be proactive about your physical and mental health. Remember, you are in control over what you eat – food does not control you.

AUTHOR BIO:

Chezza Lening is the director and publisher of RA Diet – Diet Pill – a website for helping people with their diets. For more information, visit: http://www.radiet.com.

“Religion as Controversy”

Written by August Niginnie – www.fakkreligion.com

Usually when we think of religion we think of basic beliefs or faith in a higher power and the rules or practices that it encompasses. There are many religions in the world and most of them profess to be the only one that is valid. Most of them recognize one or more beings that created the universe and take care of all of us each day. Some even see atheism, a belief in no god, as a sort of religion. After all it consists of a group of people holding the same sets of beliefs.

Also in an organized religion, people congregate at regular intervals to engage in worship as a community. Members typically meet once or twice a week for worship ceremonies or study times. While in more recent centuries the Higher Power is generally portrayed as masculine or Father, earlier cultures worshipped female Mother figures or Mother Earth.

Most religions emphasize spiritual practices like praying to the Supreme Being or meditating upon spiritual matters in order to become better human beings. Some religions provide ritual prayers that everyone uses plus encourages members to pray in their own words. One of the key concepts of many religions that has existed for centuries is that there is another life after this life ends, humans wish to believe in some form of immortality and furthermore, that we have a higher purpose in this life. Religious beliefs in an afterlife often distinguish between the “good” afterlife, heaven, and the “bad” afterlife of hell.

It is easy to understand where conflicts can arise when anyone who does not share the exact same core beliefs as are taught by the religion will be condemned forever to a “bad” afterlife. Religion and religious beliefs have spawned more wars than perhaps any other cause. Religious wars become particularly bitter because deeply held convictions that reflect the very core of humanity are involved.

At the current time, Christianity is the most popular religion in the world. However, there is not uniform belief among Christians as there are numerous Christian sects. The second most popular religion is Islam followed by the Hindu faith. Beyond that, the most populous group is one of non-believers or skeptics.

Perhaps one day humans will realize that, like there are many paths to follow in this life, there may be many religions as well. There is no single road to a good afterlife.

AUTHOR BIO:

By August Niginnie – Visit my website at FAKK Religion. For more information about religions visit: http://www.fakkreligion.com.

“Some Science Behind What’s in Your Morning Cup of Coffee”

Written by Mochi Zersto – www.ancoffee.com

The romance of a cup of coffee is undeniable, from its first exotic origins in Ethiopia to the shiny dark coffee bean to the rich aroma it releases into the air when ground. Yet the coffee goes through many steps between the plantation and your coffee-maker. The entire process is structured to an engineering science as complex as wine making to ensure high quality and good taste. Each coffee bean you buy has its own background that gives it a unique taste and aroma.

Roasting procedures influence the taste of a coffee bean, as well as its degree of acidity and extent of bitter and sour tastes. Laboratories analyze other elements of coffee bean, such as the amount of caffeine, essential oils, moisture content, and bean size. Every coffee company has its own specifications depending on its special type of coffee. Standard inspections include checking for general quality each step of the packaging process.

The coffee bean is actually a seed whose gastronomic appeal has only been enjoyed for around 700 years. Most of the world’s coffee comes from the Arabica and Robusta varieties. Like good wine, good coffee depends on a range of conditions, such as climate, growth techniques, terrain, altitude, pest control, and harvesting measures. As a result, there is plenty of bad coffee out there. The finest coffees grow at high altitude, 4,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level. Coffee growers can choose varieties that work better than others in drought, disease, and pest-prone areas, or in colder climates, but these factors can all vary.

Coffee seeds grow on trees that are quite tall; between 15 and 40 feet. Most are pruned to where pickers can easily reach the “cherries”. Coffee is always picked by hand. One reason is that the seeds ripen at different times, rather than a whole tree at once. A productive tree will put out two pounds of coffee each year. Processing coffee isn’t an easy task. After the cherries are picked, enough time is allowed for the husk to dry, and then it is separated from the seed. The skin is then extracted and both the fruit and the seed are left to dry. In a different process, the cherry is allowed to ferment and then the fruit is washed away from the seed, allowing it to dry by itself. Since they haven’t yet been roasted, the remaining beans are green.

The next step is to sort the beans. Just as one apple can spoil a whole barrel, one bad coffee bean can ruin all of those around it. The denser the bean, the better they taste, so this is taken into account during sorting. So is size, any anomalies, how sweet or acidic it is, whether or not it’s full-bodied, its flavor and if it leaves an aftertaste. The green, dried coffee beans that are suitable for market are then sent off to be roasted and sold. Packaging and shipping time are important aspects in keeping the beans from spoiling.

The roasting process varies widely and depends on taste and the coffee maker that will be used. Most beans are dark- roasted, which has become the ‘common man’ coffee but, in the opinion of connoisseurs, reduces much of the subtle and varied flavor notes. Degree of acidity and extent of roasting all affect the taste, as do the eventual brewing of the coffee. The making and consumption of coffee can truly be an art and science in itself!

AUTHOR BIO:

Mochi Zersto is the head and coordinator of AN Coffee – one of the top resources for coffee on the internet. To see a complete list of his articles, go to: http://www.ancoffee.com.

“Medical History Coding How To”

Written by Gebb Betrin – www.a1-medical-billing.com.com

The following is an illustration of the three groups of medical history, how to categorize for each group and what exactly belongs in each category. Of the three key elements of EM coding (medical history, medical decision making, and the examination) the history portion seems to be a point of confusion. The following is some very basic information on the subject for those medical billing and coding specialists that are new to the medical billing industry.

The past history, family history, and or social history (or the PFSH) is comprised of three elements. The past history includes questions about the patients past health and any past illnesses. Any hospitalization, treatment, allergies, current treatments, and immunization and medication status are accounted for. In the family history portion there will be questions about the cause of death of immediate family members and any hereditary disease in the immediate family that might put the patient in a high risk category. Lastly, the family’s status of health is discussed.

Finally, there is the social history. This will help determine the patients risk for developing depression, among other things. The social history will include the patient’s educational background, current employer, what kind of work they do, if they have ever used tobacco, alcohol, or any illicit drugs. They will also be asked about their living arrangements as well as marital status. There will be documentation of the patient’s hobbies, sexual history, and exercise habits. Additional information may be documented in the social history group at their discretion.

The billing provider can link to a PFSH performed by someone else. They will need to say where they found the PFSH. They must also have reviewed it with the patient, and if there are any noted changes, they must be put forward as well.

There are also four “levels” of history. The detailed history including CC, 4 HPI elements, 2-9 ROS elements, and 1 PFSH. Expanded problem focused history: CC 1-3 HPI elements, 1 ROS elements, and no PFSH is required. There is also problem focused history including chief complaints. 1-3 HPI elements, no ROS and no PFSH. Once you have this down, there’s no stopping you. It is actually quite a simple aspect of coding to grasp. So do not be overly concerned with the small stuff. Learn these few simple coding guide lines and you will find that it is so much easier then you think.

Once you have a working understanding of how history coding works, you will feel silly for ever thinking it complex!

AUTHOR BIO:

By Gebb Betrin – Visit Betrin at: A1 Medical Billing. For questions and comments, visit: http://www.a1-medical-billing.com.com.

“Taking the Plunge, Into an RV Loan”

Written by Carl Traidden – www.lowrvfinancing.com

Most of us would rather not take out a loan if we had the choice. To add to that point: most of us would rather not work or have any obligations at all! We all know that this is not the case, however. The good news is that these days there are ways around the undesired stress that can be associated with taking out a loan. These days there are so many options that are not so bad.

Loans taken out on RV’s are in a rare category. This category is almost unheard of. RV loans have a delinquency rate of less than two percent, which is phenomenally low. This fact should ease your mind: generally, they are happy to help get you financed.

For some people, taking out any type of loan or borrowing money for anything at all is difficult and scary. Some people have accepted it as a part of life. It doesn’t matter if you are scared or prepared, the right financial institution is out there for you, and the odds are in your favor. Don’t forget that the lender knows that your RV loan has less than a two percent chance of being delinquent. You know that the rates are really low right now, and have been waiting for just the right time. The trick is not to wait too long. Remember: if better rates come along, you can always refinance.

There are highly innovative companies out there that want to make RV financing easier than any other type of loan available. There are specialty companies and internet based companies. One such company is headed by Clint Ethington. Ethington is the Manager of an internet based finance company called PRC RV Financing. One way that Ethington and his finance team have made the process of obtaining an RV loan easier and more efficient is through the introduction of their loan rate calculator. “People can get on our secure sight and use the loan rate calculator to see exactly what they qualify for. They can adjust the down payment amount and loan duration until the monthly payment suits them,” comments Ethington.

Many financial institutions have started to suggest that RV shoppers acquire their financing before they pick out their RV. This will ensure that the customer, not the dealer will have the upper hand. It is a good idea to walk in with an approval letter. You will know what your spending limit is and you will already know what your monthly payment will be.

AUTHOR BIO:

Carl Traidden can be found at PRC RV Financing, a great source for loan and financing information. For questions and comments, visit: http://www.lowrvfinancing.com.

“Safety While Hiking”

Written by Waldron Dunntt – www.shiking.com

Hiking in a state park, national park or national forest is an enjoyable way to spend a few hours or the entire day. The hike will be most successful if you practice a few easy and sensible safety tips.

All European countries and all states in the U.S. offer hiking trails in state or national parks. Many of the hiking trails in Europe are paved while trails in remote areas of America’s national parks may be mere paths that may be overgrown or blocked by fallen trees or limbs. Most parks will post the route of a tourist trail at the beginning or trail head so that novices will know what lies ahead and what level of exertion is required. More remote and strenuous trails can be found in hiking guides written by experts who know the area well. It is best to know what lies ahead on a trail before wandering too far from your vehicle or other travelers.

Before embarking on a hike, be sure to bring some basic supplies along, even if you believe the way will be easy for you. Inclement weather can move in quickly, especially in mountainous areas, and if you are hiking in a new location, you might not be aware of local weather patterns. A small backpack is warranted even for a hike of a mile or so. The following items are recommended to carry in the backpack: a sweater or waterproof windbreaker, water, some high-energy snack foods, insect repellent, and a hat. It is a good practice to inform someone else about where you are hiking and approximately when you expect to return. If you do not return as expected, a rescue party can be summoned; we’ve all seen news reports on tv about hikers who have been lost for days. Also it is a good idea to include a small first aid kit in your backpack just for safety sake. Don’t forget that you hike on your feet; be sure to wear sturdy and comfortable footwear, preferably ankle high boots to protect yourself against turning your ankle.

People hike alone, with one other person or in groups. If possible, try to match endurance levels so that the more experienced and fit hikers aren’t held back, and the novices won’t feel rushed and over exert themselves trying to keep up. By the same token, it’s comforting to know there is at least one knowledgeable person along if anyone is injured or other problems arise.

Now that you know some of the basics, start planning a lovely hiking trip where you can commune with nature and rejuvenate your body and spirit.

AUTHOR BIO:

Contributing writer Waldron Dunntt is an avid hiker and has a website, http://www.shiking.com where he has created S Hiking, a resource for hiking the world.

“How to Make Giving a Part of Personal Finance”

Written by Darlie Pothek – www.financeaccel.com

People living in America are often thought of as consumer-crazy with a “me first” attitude. Part of this comes from the fact that our economic system allows us to buy freely, without much thought on what to do with perfectly good discarded items. We are lucky enough to have a huge variety of choices, both in products and where we purchase them. Many of us earn enough money that we can be active consumers. The problems come when we just take all this affluence for granted, and just toss things aside when we tire of them.

Americans can reduce the waste and excess in our society and, at the same time, benefit those that are not able to afford the very goods we take for granted. In fact, not only is it possible to help those less fortunate than ourselves, but we can also teach our family a valuable lesson about sharing and helping others. Children routinely receive an abundance of gifts, especially on holidays and birthdays.

One idea with children is to allow them new toys when they agree to give up something in their collection in exchange. The toys they ‘trade out’ can be given to a toy drive, a thrift store, or a church. Rather than ask children to give away cherished toys, you can instead encourage them to regularly set aside toys they have outgrown or simply never use.

Adults on the other hand, can learn to adopt organizational skills in the home. This will help us keep from becoming pack rats as well as having a good idea of what we possess. Anything we haven’t used in a year or more is unlikely to be put back into action. Start making a pile of giveaways and keep the flow of goods moving through our household rather than becoming dust collectors. If we go through our garages, closets, drawers, and storage units several times a year, we can make our donations while the items are still in style and functional. We will be helping others as well as freeing up more space in our homes.

Another bonus attached to giving things to charity is that we can take a tax write-off. Just ask for a receipt when you drop something off and put it with your tax materials each year. What about all those broken down cars in people’s yards? If they are just sitting there, they probably won’t be put back into service, and the parts may be worth more than you expect. Just take them to a junkyard or used-parts shop, collect the money and donate it to your favorite cause. You will still be able to write off the amount.

Making donations to charities can be easily accomplished, either through a monthly budgeted contribution, or large donations made a few times a year. Or, if you don’t think you have the funds to make donations, considering donating your time or a skill that may be beneficial to the charity. Many charities need help with day-to-day operations or help to organize special events. It helps to be empathetic to the people that are involved with the charity. Who knows, helping a charity can give you a whole new lease on your life.

AUTHOR BIO:

Darlie Pothek is the webmaster of Finance Accel – Finance Home – a company that specializes in financial information. You can check out Darlie’s site at: http://www.financeaccel.com.

“How To Choose the Mortgage That’s Perfect For You”

Written by Foley Prestino – www.foleymortgage.com

You will face terms like “Traditional Fixed Rate Mortgage”, “Graduated-Payment Mortgage”, “Adjustable Rate Mortgage”, “FHA Mortgage” and “Two-Step Mortgage” when you shop around for a mortgage. What do they mean? Heck, you just want to get the best mortgage!

The short answer is that there is no such thing as “the best mortgage”. However, you can choose “the best mortgage for you”. Depending on your situation and your future plans, each mortgage type will fit different kinds of people. You can save up to a few thousand dollars by spending some time choosing the mortgage that best suits your needs. So, it’s definitely worth it to do some research!

You must consider many aspects when choosing a mortgage. Each different aspect may point you to a different loan type. It’s up to you to juggle and weigh out the best deal from the pros and cons of each type. You’re in luck, though. You instantly gain an upperhand by reading this short article!

1) Is This A “Temporary Home” Or Is It One You’ll Retire In, knowing this is important. If you will be moving to a new house in the next 5-7 years, consider taking an adjustable rate loan. On the other hand, it’d be smart to choose a fixed rate mortgage if you envision staying in this house for at least 20-30 years.

By choosing a fixed rate mortgage, you won’t be affected by base interest rate fluctuations. This helps you to plan out your repayments for the long term.

2) Are You A Risk-Taker Or Are You More Conservative? If you’re someone who needs to see exactly how much you’ll be paying for your mortgage each month. If you don’t mind potentially sacrificing some savings for a predictable and stable monthly repayment, then choose a fixed rate mortgage. Of course, lenders will charge you a higher interest rate if you choose a fixed rate mortgage.

If you like to take risks, then you can choose a adjustable rate mortgage. Should the base interest rate drop, your interest payments drop as well. So, you could save a bundle if rates drop sufficiently. Of course, the flip side is true! If rates go up, your interest payments will increase if you’re on an adjustable rate mortgage. A fixed rate mortgage protects you from base interest rate fluctuations.

3) Are You Expecting A Big Raise In The Near Future? Believe it or not, this will affect which mortgage type you choose. If you expect to get a big raise in the next few years, then choose a graduated payment mortgage. With this type of mortgage, you pay less in the first few years and the repayments gradually increases.

4) Do You Have Enough Money To Pay Upfront Costs? How much can you afford to pay upfront? If you have additional cash, you may want to pay a higher down payment and lower your monthly payments. Do you want to stretch out the loan to 30 years? If you can afford higher monthly payments, you can save thousands of dollars if you shorten your loan period. Understand that you’ll have other closing costs and fees to pay in addition to your down payment. So, don’t overstretch yourself.

Once you’ve chosen a loan type, it’s time to compare the different deals the lenders will offer you. To help you find the best deal, it’s important that you take note of the following…

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

This lets you easily compare offers between lenders. The APR will include any points or additional fees included by your lender. Your APR shows the yearly cost of taking the loan.

Interest Rate

With interest rates, the lower it is the better ;-).

IMPORTANT! Get your lender to write down the interest rate they offer and how long the rate will be valid for. Don’t just take their word for it!

Points and Fees

Look out for hidden costs here. Check this carefully and ask your lender to explain ALL the types of fees they charge. Also check out what is included and what isn’t.

Loan Approval

It might not be immediately obvious but the time taken to approve your application and release the funds is very important. You DO NOT want to lose the “perfect home” that you spent months searching for because your lender took too long to approve and release the funds!

Lender Reputation

Ask yourself whether you feel comfortable with your chosen lender? Do you feel you can trust them? Listen to your gut instincts here.

Now, go ahead and get the best mortgage deal for yourself!

AUTHOR BIO:

Foley Prestino is the owner and webmaster of Foley Mortgage, which is a complete resource on finding a suitable mortgage. Visit his site for more articles, tips and advice on getting a mortgage: http://www.foleymortgage.com.

“Recipes- Our History, Our Heritage”

Written by Baceta Koken – www.foodnrecipes.com

Recipes represent the lifestyles that was lived by our ancestors because many recipes have been handed down from generation to generation and are of a wonderful pictorial of times gone by. In general we take our food now for granted because we tend to enjoy fast food and do not really prepare food with the same love and affection of those gone before us. Recipes allow us to re-live our childhoods.

It doesn’t matter where you go, you will find people who are searching for good recipes from yesteryear. Recipes are designed to be shared and books with recipes are the most frequently created and published type of book. Even with onset of the fast food rush, recipes have stood the test of time and many of us still love the dishes that result from grandma’s old recipe book.

Take a moment and reflect. What would Thanksgiving be like without pumpkin pie or turkey dressing? Would you be able to prepare those items without recipes? Many people would have to say no.

Even though our diets have changed tremendously from the settlers who first tamed our lands, the recipes still survive. Astonishingly enough, there are new recipes created daily. Low fat recipes, beverages, desserts, low carb, recipes for diabetics, salads, main dish recipes… There’s probably not a distinction or venue of food for which you can not find recipes.

Even with so many recipes at our disposal many of us still enjoy a take out meal. It is perfect for a cold night when you are tired and the kids are grumpy and your hubby or wife is away. Take out meals may not be as delicious as a home made recipe but it sure is easy.

AUTHOR BIO:

Baceta Koken is the proprietor and creator of <a href=”http://www.foodnrecipes.com>Food n Recipes, an excellent collection of resources, information, articles and more on recipes. For comments or questions about the article, please visit: http://foodnrecipes.com.

“Gardening A to Z”

Written by Girard Dinaggio – www.atgardening.com

Nothing makes a gardener happier than talking about their gardens. Some sculpt their yards with the eye of an architect, looking for design and symmetry. Some like to scatter seed randomly to have an English garden’s unplanned beauty with a plethora of shapes and colors. Still others plant a generous harvest of vegetables to enhance their meals. Some like nothing better than to maintain a beautiful lawn. Apartment and condominium occupants often work at container gardening. Whatever your preference, if you’re a gardener you wait in anticipation of each new planting season.

Climates have been steadily changing over the past few years and many areas are experiencing drought conditions, this means that there isn’t the water available that there once was for irrigation. This has sparked a whole new interest in plants that don’t require as much moisture to survive. These plants are called succulents, and although their flowering abilities are limited compared to other varieties, they have a distinctive beauty of their own. This does not mean that only cacti be grown under these conditions. Wisteria, lavender, salvia and oleander will also flourish. A good reference for this climate is the Mediterranean area, as much of the soil is dry. Also check out information on southwest American gardening. There are numerous websites and how-to books available to help to learn about dry-climate gardening.

Organic gardening is another trendy movement today. Strong chemicals are used in every aspect of our lives and some people are saying that it is time to stop and let nature run things again. In terms of gardening that means using natural fertilizers and organic products to deter pests. In fact you can order live insects that will not harm your plants and will feed on those that do in your garden. Start composting, which means saving vegetable scraps and putting them in a composting bed with mulch and everything degrades together, creating rich food for your plantings. Most communities offer free composting workshops, providing recipes and tips for making it. Avid organic gardeners recommend testing your soil to see what it lacks in nutrients. You can purchase testing kits or hire a professional.

If you are planting a garden for the first time or want to liven up the ones you already have, it’s a good idea to do a little planning. You may want to group certain colors together or maybe put contrasting colors side by side. Consider the different areas of your yard. Some plants require a lot of sun, others not so much, and some love the shade. Consider these factors before you head for your local nursery or website to buy your plants. Also think about size. You’ll want to achieve a nice balance by putting taller plants behind the short ones. Soil and moisture requirements are important components too. You wouldn’t want to place a succulent right next to a thirsty plant.

Whatever your fancy, you can learn all about various gardening techniques on the web. There are many websites and online resources that offer links to hundreds of other sites to help the novice as well as master gardeners. Gardening is hard work and it is also very rewarding. Some would say that it is addictive. How comforting it is to be surrounded by beauty.

AUTHOR BIO:

Girard Dinaggio is the owner of AT Gardening, which is a premier resource for information on gardening. For questions about this article, or for more information go to: http://www.atgardening.com.

“Home of My Heart”

Written by Dolce Domas – www.flikhome.com

We’ve all heard the saying, ~Home is where the heart is~. Simply put, it says that home is the place where we live. If it is a breathtaking mansion or a humble apartment, it’s the place we spend a lot of our time. We usually eat and sleep there and families live there together. Home is the place we feel the most secure.

The majority of people have the goal of owning their own homes. Unfortunately, real estate prices have spiraled out of control and it’s becoming more difficult to attain that dream. Median prices in many areas are between $150,000 and $400,000, depending on the area. Unless you’ve owned your home for some time, it usually takes two people to purchase and maintain one. For the last few years interest rates have been low, so buying has been on the upswing again, leaving the rental market distressed. Whether you buy or rent, live in an apartment or house, it’s your home and you want to put your stamp on it.