everything marriage blog

Monday, May 18, 2009

Lose Weight on a Budget, Run!

USA Today is running (no pun intended) a weight-loss challenge and have selected Paul and Amy Kreidler of Glendale, Mo. to share their story. Combined, the couple dropped 160 pounds; Paul shed 120 pounds and Amy lost 40. In short, the couple blamed their weight gain on their hectic lifestyles and poor choices. Between work and raising kids, the couple often found themselves grabbing fast food. The couple decided they needed a change. They made two moves that helped them lose weight and become a happier, healthier couple. They started to eat healthier food and run. Amy, who doesn't like running as much as her husband says it's the quickest and best way to get her workout in. "It's free. It's fast. You put your shoes on, you warm up, you stretch and you go."

What's your weight loss secret?

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Monday, May 11, 2009

Our Experts are Busy

Today, Dr. Karen Sherman spoke about stress on Robin Hardy's show. The show aired 11:00PT/ 2:00ET. If you missed the show, be sure to listen online at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Robin-Hardy. Also part of the conversation is another one of our regular contributors, Debbie Mandel.

In other news, Dr. Noelle Nelson in promotion of her new book, "Your Man is Wonderful," is running a contest. To enter, pick just one of her suggestions, put it into practice for a week in your life, and then share with us what happened. Submissions will be based on the follow criteria: originality 25%, attitude of contestant 25%, adherence to the contest theme & suggestions 25%, and the change that takes place by following the suggestions 25%. Every person who enters the “Toad to Prince” contest will receive a free PDF download of Dr. Noelle Nelson’s book "Everyday Miracles Vol. 1." The grand prize winner will receive a $1,000 travel voucher to use for a romantic getaway for 2 people. Visit, www.toadtoprince.com to enter.

Lastly, Dr. Trina Read sent me an interesting article the other day on male contreception from MSN. Click here to read the article. Dr. Read would like to add to this conversation and we'll have a podcast with her in the coming weeks speaking about this subject, so please check back often.

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Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Sex Therapist Explains Men

AOL interviewed sex therapist Ian Kerner asking him many questions about men. For example, Ian explains how men do like to nonsexual physical affection, then dishes on why men, then, don't cuddle after sex. He reasons that while men would like to, it's that they have other things they'd rather be doing like checking e-mail. Ian also says men find relationship routines boring--even describing it as prison. In terms of men being into porn, Ian explains it's nothing to worry about, saying "We really prefer being with an actual woman." If you'd like to read the entire interview, click here.

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Monday, March 23, 2009

Don't Waste Money on These Things

SmartMoney.com has run a story of 7 things that you're wasting money on. Times are tough and we know a lot of you are looking to save a few bucks here and there. So where are you wasting money? The seven places they mention are bottled water, extended warranties, gym memberships, overdraft fees, organic produce, auto insurance, and music downloads. There's definitely money to be saved in each of these and SmartMoney breaks down an estimate of how much money you could save. There are obviously many variables to consider here. Some other items we'd like to add to this list are eating out, coffee runs, entertainment expenses, alcohol and movie rentals. Another thing is to be more thoughtful and plan ahead. For example, if you're going to run errands on the weekend, map out where you need to travel and make sure you take the most direct route. This will save not just time, but gas, which we know is money. Please go on the message boards and share your tips.

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Don't Waste Money on These Things

SmartMoney.com has run a story of 7 things that you're wasting money on. Times are tough and we know a lot of you are looking to save a few bucks here and there. So where are you wasting money? The seven places they mention are bottled water, extended warranties, gym memberships, overdraft fees, organic produce, auto insurance, and music downloads. There's definitely money to be saved in each of these and SmartMoney breaks down an estimate of how much money you could save. There are obviously many variables to consider here. Some other items we'd like to add to this list are eating out, coffee runs, entertainment expenses, alcohol and movie rentals. Another thing is to be more thoughtful and plan ahead. For example, if you're going to run errands on the weekend, map out where you need to travel and make sure you take the most direct route. This will save not just time, but gas, which we know is money. Please go on the message boards and share your tips.

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Don't Waste Money on These Things

SmartMoney.com has run a story of 7 things that you're wasting money on. Times are tough and we know a lot of you are looking to save a few bucks here and there. So where are you wasting money? The seven places they mention are bottled water, extended warranties, gym memberships, overdraft fees, organic produce, auto insurance, and music downloads. There's definitely money to be saved in each of these and SmartMoney breaks down an estimate of how much money you could save. There are obviously many variables to consider here. Some other items we'd like to add to this list are eating out, coffee runs, entertainment expenses, alcohol and movie rentals. Another thing is to be more thoughtful and plan ahead. For example, if you're going to run errands on the weekend, map out where you need to travel and make sure you take the most direct route. This will save not just time, but gas, which we know is money. Please go on the message boards and share your tips.

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Tuesday, March 17, 2009

10 Ways to be Happy in Marriage

Everyone has their tricks to maintaining a happy and successful marriage. The Seattle Times offers a list of 10 things you can do to be happy in marriage. Here are a couple fo highlights:

1. Talk about the important stuff. Most couples spend more time planning a vacation than they do planning for their relationship. Create a relationship vision by asking: "If we could have it exactly like we want, how would it be?"

2. Listen to the heart more than you listen to the words. Focusing on the words can lead to endless and meaningless debate: "No, that did not happen on Tuesday, it happened on Monday!"

3. Don't be a Darren Stevens. In the old sitcom "Bewitched," Samantha merely had to wiggle her nose to make incredible things happen. Darren was always trying to get her to stop using her magical powers.

Even as a little kid, I thought the guy was nuts. He could have had anything he wanted. Instead he tried to get Sam to stifle her gifts. Encourage your partner in her gifts.

4. Don't assume that just because you are married, you know how to be married. Pay attention to what works for other couples. Read all you can. Go to seminars. Find a coach. It's a lot less expensive than divorce, financially and emotionally.

We especially agree with that last item, which is why we exist. Tell your friends if they're looking for some good reading material, we're here to help.

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10 Ways to be Happy in Marriage

Everyone has their tricks to maintaining a happy and successful marriage. The Seattle Times offers a list of 10 things you can do to be happy in marriage. Here are a couple fo highlights:

1. Talk about the important stuff. Most couples spend more time planning a vacation than they do planning for their relationship. Create a relationship vision by asking: "If we could have it exactly like we want, how would it be?"

2. Listen to the heart more than you listen to the words. Focusing on the words can lead to endless and meaningless debate: "No, that did not happen on Tuesday, it happened on Monday!"

3. Don't be a Darren Stevens. In the old sitcom "Bewitched," Samantha merely had to wiggle her nose to make incredible things happen. Darren was always trying to get her to stop using her magical powers.

Even as a little kid, I thought the guy was nuts. He could have had anything he wanted. Instead he tried to get Sam to stifle her gifts. Encourage your partner in her gifts.

4. Don't assume that just because you are married, you know how to be married. Pay attention to what works for other couples. Read all you can. Go to seminars. Find a coach. It's a lot less expensive than divorce, financially and emotionally.

We especially agree with that last item, which is why we exist. Tell your friends if they're looking for some good reading material, we're here to help.

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10 Ways to be Happy in Marriage

Everyone has their tricks to maintaining a happy and successful marriage. The Seattle Times offers a list of 10 things you can do to be happy in marriage. Here are a couple fo highlights:

1. Talk about the important stuff. Most couples spend more time planning a vacation than they do planning for their relationship. Create a relationship vision by asking: "If we could have it exactly like we want, how would it be?"

2. Listen to the heart more than you listen to the words. Focusing on the words can lead to endless and meaningless debate: "No, that did not happen on Tuesday, it happened on Monday!"

3. Don't be a Darren Stevens. In the old sitcom "Bewitched," Samantha merely had to wiggle her nose to make incredible things happen. Darren was always trying to get her to stop using her magical powers.

Even as a little kid, I thought the guy was nuts. He could have had anything he wanted. Instead he tried to get Sam to stifle her gifts. Encourage your partner in her gifts.

4. Don't assume that just because you are married, you know how to be married. Pay attention to what works for other couples. Read all you can. Go to seminars. Find a coach. It's a lot less expensive than divorce, financially and emotionally.

We especially agree with that last item, which is why we exist. Tell your friends if they're looking for some good reading material, we're here to help.

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Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Dr. Haltzman Talks Pros of Marriage

Click here to watch Dr. Scott Haltzman discuss with his local news team the benefits of being in a healthy marriage. Dr. Haltzman highlights many good points such as the fact that men live longer (on average up to 10 years longer, women 4 years), stay slimmer, decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, or high blood pressure, less hospital time, less nursing home time, and less alcoholism. But to get all these benefits, you need to sustain a happy marriage, which Dr. Haltzman says means thinking about what will make your partner happy and fight fair without finger pointing.

This is terrific publicity of what a healthy marriage can do, but is ruined by the hack journalist who needs to add his own commentary to the story once the clip is done playing. It's these types of comments that undercut the work done by professionals such as Dr. Haltzman and stain the attitudes of the community this "journalist" is supposed to be serving.

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Dr. Haltzman Talks Pros of Marriage

Click here to watch Dr. Scott Haltzman discuss with his local news team the benefits of being in a healthy marriage. Dr. Haltzman highlights many good points such as the fact that men live longer (on average up to 10 years longer, women 4 years), stay slimmer, decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, or high blood pressure, less hospital time, less nursing home time, and less alcoholism. But to get all these benefits, you need to sustain a happy marriage, which Dr. Haltzman says means thinking about what will make your partner happy and fight fair without finger pointing.

This is terrific publicity of what a healthy marriage can do, but is ruined by the hack journalist who needs to add his own commentary to the story once the clip is done playing. It's these types of comments that undercut the work done by professionals such as Dr. Haltzman and stain the attitudes of the community this "journalist" is supposed to be serving.

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Dr. Haltzman Talks Pros of Marriage

Click here to watch Dr. Scott Haltzman discuss with his local news team the benefits of being in a healthy marriage. Dr. Haltzman highlights many good points such as the fact that men live longer (on average up to 10 years longer, women 4 years), stay slimmer, decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, or high blood pressure, less hospital time, less nursing home time, and less alcoholism. But to get all these benefits, you need to sustain a happy marriage, which Dr. Haltzman says means thinking about what will make your partner happy and fight fair without finger pointing.

This is terrific publicity of what a healthy marriage can do, but is ruined by the hack journalist who needs to add his own commentary to the story once the clip is done playing. It's these types of comments that undercut the work done by professionals such as Dr. Haltzman and stain the attitudes of the community this "journalist" is supposed to be serving.

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Monday, March 02, 2009

Money Rules for Marriage

Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce in the country. With money issues crippling the country right now, it's a good time to review the following rules from The Motley Fool. For starters, they say you have to "have the talk." To break the ice they recommend asking, "If you had $50 to burn, what would you spend it on?" Then go into the more difficult financial questions. Another rule is to not ignore financial issues with your ex (if you're remarried). If you had a joint credit card, make sure it's taken care of. With your current spouse, they recommend not feeding each other's bad habits. Who's going to be the party pooper when you both want to purchase a new car, but know that it's not a smart financial decision for you at the moment.

It's not all negative talk on money. There are many benefits to being a financial duo. You can save on insurance, get banking deals and more. They also recommend that you get your future financial plan in order. Discuss your goals (short and long term) and then talk about how you're going to get there.

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Money Rules for Marriage

Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce in the country. With money issues crippling the country right now, it's a good time to review the following rules from The Motley Fool. For starters, they say you have to "have the talk." To break the ice they recommend asking, "If you had $50 to burn, what would you spend it on?" Then go into the more difficult financial questions. Another rule is to not ignore financial issues with your ex (if you're remarried). If you had a joint credit card, make sure it's taken care of. With your current spouse, they recommend not feeding each other's bad habits. Who's going to be the party pooper when you both want to purchase a new car, but know that it's not a smart financial decision for you at the moment.

It's not all negative talk on money. There are many benefits to being a financial duo. You can save on insurance, get banking deals and more. They also recommend that you get your future financial plan in order. Discuss your goals (short and long term) and then talk about how you're going to get there.

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Money Rules for Marriage

Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce in the country. With money issues crippling the country right now, it's a good time to review the following rules from The Motley Fool. For starters, they say you have to "have the talk." To break the ice they recommend asking, "If you had $50 to burn, what would you spend it on?" Then go into the more difficult financial questions. Another rule is to not ignore financial issues with your ex (if you're remarried). If you had a joint credit card, make sure it's taken care of. With your current spouse, they recommend not feeding each other's bad habits. Who's going to be the party pooper when you both want to purchase a new car, but know that it's not a smart financial decision for you at the moment.

It's not all negative talk on money. There are many benefits to being a financial duo. You can save on insurance, get banking deals and more. They also recommend that you get your future financial plan in order. Discuss your goals (short and long term) and then talk about how you're going to get there.

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Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Love After Layoff

When one spouse loses their job, it's not just a financial strain on the marriage, but also an emotional one. A British study released late last year by the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex found that couples who experience job loss are more likely to divorce within a year than their employed counterparts. This flies counter to other studies that have said the financial crunch slows divorces because people can't afford them--if nothing else. In this article from MSNBC, Nicholas Yrizarry, a financial planner from Reston, Va., says he sees two types of couples: the ones who are obsessed with money and material things and allow a layoff to destroy their marriage; and the ones who have a mature relationship and adversity only brings them closer. "They are the types that can live in a phone booth together and still be OK," he said.

This is a good reminder of what really matters in life. That doesn't mean that money troubles aren't real. Yrizarry offers the following steps couples should take:
1. Sit down "calmly" and discuss what your assets are.

2. Come up with a financial plan to deal with the loss of income and strategies to get a new job--or have a non-working spouse get a job. Assess your options for taking on temporary work or retraining if your skills are not marketable anymore.

3. Implement the plan.
On the emotional front, he recommends being respectful and supportive of each other and making sure not to play the "blame game." It's a time to be constructive and supportive, especially in troubled times.

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Love After Layoff

When one spouse loses their job, it's not just a financial strain on the marriage, but also an emotional one. A British study released late last year by the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex found that couples who experience job loss are more likely to divorce within a year than their employed counterparts. This flies counter to other studies that have said the financial crunch slows divorces because people can't afford them--if nothing else. In this article from MSNBC, Nicholas Yrizarry, a financial planner from Reston, Va., says he sees two types of couples: the ones who are obsessed with money and material things and allow a layoff to destroy their marriage; and the ones who have a mature relationship and adversity only brings them closer. "They are the types that can live in a phone booth together and still be OK," he said.

This is a good reminder of what really matters in life. That doesn't mean that money troubles aren't real. Yrizarry offers the following steps couples should take:
1. Sit down "calmly" and discuss what your assets are.

2. Come up with a financial plan to deal with the loss of income and strategies to get a new job--or have a non-working spouse get a job. Assess your options for taking on temporary work or retraining if your skills are not marketable anymore.

3. Implement the plan.
On the emotional front, he recommends being respectful and supportive of each other and making sure not to play the "blame game." It's a time to be constructive and supportive, especially in troubled times.

Labels: , , ,

Love After Layoff

When one spouse loses their job, it's not just a financial strain on the marriage, but also an emotional one. A British study released late last year by the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex found that couples who experience job loss are more likely to divorce within a year than their employed counterparts. This flies counter to other studies that have said the financial crunch slows divorces because people can't afford them--if nothing else. In this article from MSNBC, Nicholas Yrizarry, a financial planner from Reston, Va., says he sees two types of couples: the ones who are obsessed with money and material things and allow a layoff to destroy their marriage; and the ones who have a mature relationship and adversity only brings them closer. "They are the types that can live in a phone booth together and still be OK," he said.

This is a good reminder of what really matters in life. That doesn't mean that money troubles aren't real. Yrizarry offers the following steps couples should take:
1. Sit down "calmly" and discuss what your assets are.

2. Come up with a financial plan to deal with the loss of income and strategies to get a new job--or have a non-working spouse get a job. Assess your options for taking on temporary work or retraining if your skills are not marketable anymore.

3. Implement the plan.
On the emotional front, he recommends being respectful and supportive of each other and making sure not to play the "blame game." It's a time to be constructive and supportive, especially in troubled times.

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Sunday, February 22, 2009

What Kills Sex in a Marriage?

Two recent books address this issue, "The Sex-Starved Wife" by Michele Weiner Davis (which we excerpt here), and "He's Just Not Up for It Anymore," by Bob Berkowitz and Susan Yager-Berkowitz and the authors were interviewed by USA Today. Here's what they said:

Q: You surveyed more than 4,000 men and women online who identified themselves as currently or in the past being in a sexless marriage (sex 10 times a year or less). What findings surprised you the most?
Berkowitz: It shocked me that 68% of men said the reason for their slumping sex drive is that "she's not sexually adventurous enough." That's a lot of finger-pointing. So many used "not adventurous" as an excuse.

Yager-Berkowitz: A number of men in our survey said the wife had gained too much weight — 38% of men said she "gained a significant amount of weight." Also, it surprised me that 30% of men admitted they had ED (erectile dysfunction). Even 15 years ago, I don't think that would have happened. Now that there are some solutions and some hope, that's allowed a conversation to open up.

Q: You and Redbook magazine surveyed 1,004 women online about their husbands' low sexual desire; you say that low desire is often mistaken for erectile dysfunction. Why?

Weiner Davis: So many people in the general public think low sexual desire is synonymous with ED. He doesn't want sex because he can't have sex. There is some truth to that, in that ED can turn into a problem of low sexual desire, but it is vastly overrated as the only reason men turn off to sex. A man who has erectile dysfunction does not always have low sexual desire. In fact, he will only get low sexual desire if he can't find some effective way or means to remedy the situation because then it becomes an ordeal rather than pleasure. But if a man learns how to manage and overcome it, he might have very high sexual desire.

Click here to read the complete interview.

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What Kills Sex in a Marriage?

Two recent books address this issue, "The Sex-Starved Wife" by Michele Weiner Davis (which we excerpt here), and "He's Just Not Up for It Anymore," by Bob Berkowitz and Susan Yager-Berkowitz and the authors were interviewed by USA Today. Here's what they said:

Q: You surveyed more than 4,000 men and women online who identified themselves as currently or in the past being in a sexless marriage (sex 10 times a year or less). What findings surprised you the most?
Berkowitz: It shocked me that 68% of men said the reason for their slumping sex drive is that "she's not sexually adventurous enough." That's a lot of finger-pointing. So many used "not adventurous" as an excuse.

Yager-Berkowitz: A number of men in our survey said the wife had gained too much weight — 38% of men said she "gained a significant amount of weight." Also, it surprised me that 30% of men admitted they had ED (erectile dysfunction). Even 15 years ago, I don't think that would have happened. Now that there are some solutions and some hope, that's allowed a conversation to open up.

Q: You and Redbook magazine surveyed 1,004 women online about their husbands' low sexual desire; you say that low desire is often mistaken for erectile dysfunction. Why?

Weiner Davis: So many people in the general public think low sexual desire is synonymous with ED. He doesn't want sex because he can't have sex. There is some truth to that, in that ED can turn into a problem of low sexual desire, but it is vastly overrated as the only reason men turn off to sex. A man who has erectile dysfunction does not always have low sexual desire. In fact, he will only get low sexual desire if he can't find some effective way or means to remedy the situation because then it becomes an ordeal rather than pleasure. But if a man learns how to manage and overcome it, he might have very high sexual desire.

Click here to read the complete interview.

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What Kills Sex in a Marriage?

Two recent books address this issue, "The Sex-Starved Wife" by Michele Weiner Davis (which we excerpt here), and "He's Just Not Up for It Anymore," by Bob Berkowitz and Susan Yager-Berkowitz and the authors were interviewed by USA Today. Here's what they said:

Q: You surveyed more than 4,000 men and women online who identified themselves as currently or in the past being in a sexless marriage (sex 10 times a year or less). What findings surprised you the most?
Berkowitz: It shocked me that 68% of men said the reason for their slumping sex drive is that "she's not sexually adventurous enough." That's a lot of finger-pointing. So many used "not adventurous" as an excuse.

Yager-Berkowitz: A number of men in our survey said the wife had gained too much weight — 38% of men said she "gained a significant amount of weight." Also, it surprised me that 30% of men admitted they had ED (erectile dysfunction). Even 15 years ago, I don't think that would have happened. Now that there are some solutions and some hope, that's allowed a conversation to open up.

Q: You and Redbook magazine surveyed 1,004 women online about their husbands' low sexual desire; you say that low desire is often mistaken for erectile dysfunction. Why?

Weiner Davis: So many people in the general public think low sexual desire is synonymous with ED. He doesn't want sex because he can't have sex. There is some truth to that, in that ED can turn into a problem of low sexual desire, but it is vastly overrated as the only reason men turn off to sex. A man who has erectile dysfunction does not always have low sexual desire. In fact, he will only get low sexual desire if he can't find some effective way or means to remedy the situation because then it becomes an ordeal rather than pleasure. But if a man learns how to manage and overcome it, he might have very high sexual desire.

Click here to read the complete interview.

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Friday, February 13, 2009

Beware of Cute e-Cards

Hackers are using Valentine's e-Cards to sneak malicious software onto unprotected computers. According to this article from MSNBC it works like this, "they want you to click on the link in the e-mail or instant message to retrieve your e-card. That will send you to their web site which has malware waiting to be downloaded." The code will then access a user's e-mail address book and send replications of the e-card message to them. One of the scams offers a free development kit that supposedly lets you create your own Valentine e-card. The message features a pair of Shih Tzu puppies (see image of what bogus e-mail looks like). Click on the link to get the kit and you've just infected your computer.

So to stay safe, if you don't recognize the recipient don't open the e-mail. If you're searching for an e-Card to send to your spouse, be sure the card is coming from a reputable source or look within your own e-mail system for a template you can use without using a third party. Have a safe V-Day.

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Beware of Cute e-Cards

Hackers are using Valentine's e-Cards to sneak malicious software onto unprotected computers. According to this article from MSNBC it works like this, "they want you to click on the link in the e-mail or instant message to retrieve your e-card. That will send you to their web site which has malware waiting to be downloaded." The code will then access a user's e-mail address book and send replications of the e-card message to them. One of the scams offers a free development kit that supposedly lets you create your own Valentine e-card. The message features a pair of Shih Tzu puppies (see image of what bogus e-mail looks like). Click on the link to get the kit and you've just infected your computer.

So to stay safe, if you don't recognize the recipient don't open the e-mail. If you're searching for an e-Card to send to your spouse, be sure the card is coming from a reputable source or look within your own e-mail system for a template you can use without using a third party. Have a safe V-Day.

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Beware of Cute e-Cards

Hackers are using Valentine's e-Cards to sneak malicious software onto unprotected computers. According to this article from MSNBC it works like this, "they want you to click on the link in the e-mail or instant message to retrieve your e-card. That will send you to their web site which has malware waiting to be downloaded." The code will then access a user's e-mail address book and send replications of the e-card message to them. One of the scams offers a free development kit that supposedly lets you create your own Valentine e-card. The message features a pair of Shih Tzu puppies (see image of what bogus e-mail looks like). Click on the link to get the kit and you've just infected your computer.

So to stay safe, if you don't recognize the recipient don't open the e-mail. If you're searching for an e-Card to send to your spouse, be sure the card is coming from a reputable source or look within your own e-mail system for a template you can use without using a third party. Have a safe V-Day.

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Monday, February 02, 2009

HUD To the Rescue

If you're facing foreclosure and are located in any of the cities of Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, New York or Phoenix then the U.S. Housing and Urban Development government agency would like to offer free mortgage delinquency and default resolution counseling. The program was developed to help those who face losing their home. Their may be other options, the first is to call your local HUD agency at (877) HUD-1515 or visit www.hud.gov. So does their counseling work? A recent HUD study noted a 55 percent increase in the number of clients receiving foreclosure prevention counseling between 2006 and 2007. Of the approximately 136,000 families that completed this counseling during 2007, 45 percent were able to remain in their homes while 14 percent ultimately lost their home through foreclosure. That's a pretty good success rate and definitely worth a phone call. To read the complete release, click here.

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HUD To the Rescue

If you're facing foreclosure and are located in any of the cities of Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, New York or Phoenix then the U.S. Housing and Urban Development government agency would like to offer free mortgage delinquency and default resolution counseling. The program was developed to help those who face losing their home. Their may be other options, the first is to call your local HUD agency at (877) HUD-1515 or visit www.hud.gov. So does their counseling work? A recent HUD study noted a 55 percent increase in the number of clients receiving foreclosure prevention counseling between 2006 and 2007. Of the approximately 136,000 families that completed this counseling during 2007, 45 percent were able to remain in their homes while 14 percent ultimately lost their home through foreclosure. That's a pretty good success rate and definitely worth a phone call. To read the complete release, click here.

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HUD To the Rescue

If you're facing foreclosure and are located in any of the cities of Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, New York or Phoenix then the U.S. Housing and Urban Development government agency would like to offer free mortgage delinquency and default resolution counseling. The program was developed to help those who face losing their home. Their may be other options, the first is to call your local HUD agency at (877) HUD-1515 or visit www.hud.gov. So does their counseling work? A recent HUD study noted a 55 percent increase in the number of clients receiving foreclosure prevention counseling between 2006 and 2007. Of the approximately 136,000 families that completed this counseling during 2007, 45 percent were able to remain in their homes while 14 percent ultimately lost their home through foreclosure. That's a pretty good success rate and definitely worth a phone call. To read the complete release, click here.

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Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Beat the Winter Blues

The winter days keep coming and coming and some of you might need a little pick me up. Forbes.com offers a few tips to help get you out of the doldrums. Their first tip is to eat a balanced diet. The also recommend regular exercise, a regular sleeping pattern, being social, and antidepressants! We're not saying antidepressants are bad or that their isn't a purpose for them, but to beat the winter blues? Their final tip seems more appropriate and a better initial step: therapy.

Here are some of our tips: go on a date this weekend, find new recipes to cook together, take a class together, begin planning your summer vacation, go see a movie, go snowboarding, do a craft project together, or start a blog. Essentially, break the monotony of your days. Be sure to read our recent article, "Super Wife Sunday" which offers a terrific idea that may turn into a yearly tradition.

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Beat the Winter Blues

The winter days keep coming and coming and some of you might need a little pick me up. Forbes.com offers a few tips to help get you out of the doldrums. Their first tip is to eat a balanced diet. The also recommend regular exercise, a regular sleeping pattern, being social, and antidepressants! We're not saying antidepressants are bad or that their isn't a purpose for them, but to beat the winter blues? Their final tip seems more appropriate and a better initial step: therapy.

Here are some of our tips: go on a date this weekend, find new recipes to cook together, take a class together, begin planning your summer vacation, go see a movie, go snowboarding, do a craft project together, or start a blog. Essentially, break the monotony of your days. Be sure to read our recent article, "Super Wife Sunday" which offers a terrific idea that may turn into a yearly tradition.

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Beat the Winter Blues

The winter days keep coming and coming and some of you might need a little pick me up. Forbes.com offers a few tips to help get you out of the doldrums. Their first tip is to eat a balanced diet. The also recommend regular exercise, a regular sleeping pattern, being social, and antidepressants! We're not saying antidepressants are bad or that their isn't a purpose for them, but to beat the winter blues? Their final tip seems more appropriate and a better initial step: therapy.

Here are some of our tips: go on a date this weekend, find new recipes to cook together, take a class together, begin planning your summer vacation, go see a movie, go snowboarding, do a craft project together, or start a blog. Essentially, break the monotony of your days. Be sure to read our recent article, "Super Wife Sunday" which offers a terrific idea that may turn into a yearly tradition.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Use Common Sense, Be Safe

I read an article earlier today that suggested not to shoot your guns in celebration of the new year. Seems reasonable. But celebration isn't the only place you should use common sense, the weather is another place to use good judgement. Click here to read an article of a man who used a cutting torch to thaw ice and wound up thawing a lot of ice when he caught his house on fire. Be safe, don't drink and drive, and enjoy your New Year celebrations! Happy New Year everyone and be sure to give your spouse a BIG kiss at midnight--then remember to do the same thing throughout the year.

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Use Common Sense, Be Safe

I read an article earlier today that suggested not to shoot your guns in celebration of the new year. Seems reasonable. But celebration isn't the only place you should use common sense, the weather is another place to use good judgement. Click here to read an article of a man who used a cutting torch to thaw ice and wound up thawing a lot of ice when he caught his house on fire. Be safe, don't drink and drive, and enjoy your New Year celebrations! Happy New Year everyone and be sure to give your spouse a BIG kiss at midnight--then remember to do the same thing throughout the year.

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Use Common Sense, Be Safe

I read an article earlier today that suggested not to shoot your guns in celebration of the new year. Seems reasonable. But celebration isn't the only place you should use common sense, the weather is another place to use good judgement. Click here to read an article of a man who used a cutting torch to thaw ice and wound up thawing a lot of ice when he caught his house on fire. Be safe, don't drink and drive, and enjoy your New Year celebrations! Happy New Year everyone and be sure to give your spouse a BIG kiss at midnight--then remember to do the same thing throughout the year.

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Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Postnuptial Depression

Time magazine published an article addressing the blues couples face (particularly the bride) once their big day has come and gone. The article says 5% to 10% of newlyweds suffer strong enough remorse, sadness or frustration to prompt them to seek professional counseling. The article says some feel it and describe it as buyers remorse, others expected some magical change to happen in their relationship only to find that there's no such thing. One bride who was married in 2006 says she's found the secret to getting over the blues. She recommends newlyweds to refocus the energy that they spent working toward the wedding and now put it into themselves and their marriage, like date nights. The article also recommended:
After the vows, to defeat the postnuptial blues, doctors say, couples should get adequate rest and exercise; communicate constantly; focus on the benefits of marriage, like having a built-in support system; and start thinking about the future in terms of family or finance. Women should stop thinking of themselves as "the bride" and throw out those wedding magazines, then plan social events for after the honeymoon, so they have other parties to look forward to.


Did you experience postnuptial depression? If so, how long did it last and how did you get out of it?

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Postnuptial Depression

Time magazine published an article addressing the blues couples face (particularly the bride) once their big day has come and gone. The article says 5% to 10% of newlyweds suffer strong enough remorse, sadness or frustration to prompt them to seek professional counseling. The article says some feel it and describe it as buyers remorse, others expected some magical change to happen in their relationship only to find that there's no such thing. One bride who was married in 2006 says she's found the secret to getting over the blues. She recommends newlyweds to refocus the energy that they spent working toward the wedding and now put it into themselves and their marriage, like date nights. The article also recommended:
After the vows, to defeat the postnuptial blues, doctors say, couples should get adequate rest and exercise; communicate constantly; focus on the benefits of marriage, like having a built-in support system; and start thinking about the future in terms of family or finance. Women should stop thinking of themselves as "the bride" and throw out those wedding magazines, then plan social events for after the honeymoon, so they have other parties to look forward to.


Did you experience postnuptial depression? If so, how long did it last and how did you get out of it?

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Postnuptial Depression

Time magazine published an article addressing the blues couples face (particularly the bride) once their big day has come and gone. The article says 5% to 10% of newlyweds suffer strong enough remorse, sadness or frustration to prompt them to seek professional counseling. The article says some feel it and describe it as buyers remorse, others expected some magical change to happen in their relationship only to find that there's no such thing. One bride who was married in 2006 says she's found the secret to getting over the blues. She recommends newlyweds to refocus the energy that they spent working toward the wedding and now put it into themselves and their marriage, like date nights. The article also recommended:
After the vows, to defeat the postnuptial blues, doctors say, couples should get adequate rest and exercise; communicate constantly; focus on the benefits of marriage, like having a built-in support system; and start thinking about the future in terms of family or finance. Women should stop thinking of themselves as "the bride" and throw out those wedding magazines, then plan social events for after the honeymoon, so they have other parties to look forward to.


Did you experience postnuptial depression? If so, how long did it last and how did you get out of it?

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Monday, December 08, 2008

Do You Tell Your Kids About the Economy?

Today's youth have never seen an economic slump. Heck, with the drop in the economy we've seen these past few months, only those who are old enough to remember the Great Depression have (like our money expert Al Jacobs). Anyway, now that the holidays are here and many kids probably aren't going to have as many gifts as in years past, what's a parent to do? This article on MSNBC says that many parents are spending less on themselves to shield their kids from financial hardships. One family with sons ages 10, 8 and 4, had their kids go through the advertising circulars and circle their holiday wish list. They then had their kids ad up the total of all the items they wished for. One child was surprised that his list came to $904, which was a perfect segue to discuss money with them.

In conclusion, the article didn't offer any concrete advice, but I thought the last bit about the sons was a neat idea. How are you approaching the money situation in your household? Are you shielding your kids or shedding a light on the real world?

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Do You Tell Your Kids About the Economy?

Today's youth have never seen an economic slump. Heck, with the drop in the economy we've seen these past few months, only those who are old enough to remember the Great Depression have (like our money expert Al Jacobs). Anyway, now that the holidays are here and many kids probably aren't going to have as many gifts as in years past, what's a parent to do? This article on MSNBC says that many parents are spending less on themselves to shield their kids from financial hardships. One family with sons ages 10, 8 and 4, had their kids go through the advertising circulars and circle their holiday wish list. They then had their kids ad up the total of all the items they wished for. One child was surprised that his list came to $904, which was a perfect segue to discuss money with them.

In conclusion, the article didn't offer any concrete advice, but I thought the last bit about the sons was a neat idea. How are you approaching the money situation in your household? Are you shielding your kids or shedding a light on the real world?

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Do You Tell Your Kids About the Economy?

Today's youth have never seen an economic slump. Heck, with the drop in the economy we've seen these past few months, only those who are old enough to remember the Great Depression have (like our money expert Al Jacobs). Anyway, now that the holidays are here and many kids probably aren't going to have as many gifts as in years past, what's a parent to do? This article on MSNBC says that many parents are spending less on themselves to shield their kids from financial hardships. One family with sons ages 10, 8 and 4, had their kids go through the advertising circulars and circle their holiday wish list. They then had their kids ad up the total of all the items they wished for. One child was surprised that his list came to $904, which was a perfect segue to discuss money with them.

In conclusion, the article didn't offer any concrete advice, but I thought the last bit about the sons was a neat idea. How are you approaching the money situation in your household? Are you shielding your kids or shedding a light on the real world?

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Tuesday, December 02, 2008

How to Green Your Sex Life

You recycle cans and bottles, use reusable bags at the grocery store and drive a hybrid car. So what's the next step to saving the planet? Greening up your sex life! Planet Green offers many tips on turning your sex life green. For example, many sex toys contain chemicals and materials that are harmful to the environment. So instead, they recommend using sex toys made of glass, metal, silicone, hard plastics, or elastomers. If your toy uses power, look for one that is rechargeable or use your own rechargeable batteries. For lubes, they say to avoid petroleum products, artificial scents, flavors, and colors, and instead look for organic lubes. Other quick tips include showering together, bamboo bed sheets, and lingerie that's made of earth-friendly materials that you'll wear more than once, such as organic cotton, hemp silk, bamboo.

Check out their article, which includes specific brands that are eco-friendly, plus it has many more tips. Do you have any tips?

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How to Green Your Sex Life

You recycle cans and bottles, use reusable bags at the grocery store and drive a hybrid car. So what's the next step to saving the planet? Greening up your sex life! Planet Green offers many tips on turning your sex life green. For example, many sex toys contain chemicals and materials that are harmful to the environment. So instead, they recommend using sex toys made of glass, metal, silicone, hard plastics, or elastomers. If your toy uses power, look for one that is rechargeable or use your own rechargeable batteries. For lubes, they say to avoid petroleum products, artificial scents, flavors, and colors, and instead look for organic lubes. Other quick tips include showering together, bamboo bed sheets, and lingerie that's made of earth-friendly materials that you'll wear more than once, such as organic cotton, hemp silk, bamboo.

Check out their article, which includes specific brands that are eco-friendly, plus it has many more tips. Do you have any tips?

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How to Green Your Sex Life

You recycle cans and bottles, use reusable bags at the grocery store and drive a hybrid car. So what's the next step to saving the planet? Greening up your sex life! Planet Green offers many tips on turning your sex life green. For example, many sex toys contain chemicals and materials that are harmful to the environment. So instead, they recommend using sex toys made of glass, metal, silicone, hard plastics, or elastomers. If your toy uses power, look for one that is rechargeable or use your own rechargeable batteries. For lubes, they say to avoid petroleum products, artificial scents, flavors, and colors, and instead look for organic lubes. Other quick tips include showering together, bamboo bed sheets, and lingerie that's made of earth-friendly materials that you'll wear more than once, such as organic cotton, hemp silk, bamboo.

Check out their article, which includes specific brands that are eco-friendly, plus it has many more tips. Do you have any tips?

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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Most Dangerous Holiday Traffic Day

The most dangerous holiday to drive is New Year's Eve, right? Wrong! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the most dangerous holiday to take to the road is Thanksgiving. So be sure to drive safe this week. It seems that Thanksgiving is a perfect storm of event: long distance travel, packed roads, long days of drinking wine and beer, sleepy drivers from the turkey and general stress.

Independence Day is the second most dangerous day, followed by Memorial Day and Labor Day. New Year's Eve doesn't show up until number five. The best advice they recommend is to stay home, which isn't an option or most, or to fly. If you must drive, then wear a seatbelt, make a plan for getting home if you're going to be drinking and don't speed.

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Most Dangerous Holiday Traffic Day

The most dangerous holiday to drive is New Year's Eve, right? Wrong! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the most dangerous holiday to take to the road is Thanksgiving. So be sure to drive safe this week. It seems that Thanksgiving is a perfect storm of event: long distance travel, packed roads, long days of drinking wine and beer, sleepy drivers from the turkey and general stress.

Independence Day is the second most dangerous day, followed by Memorial Day and Labor Day. New Year's Eve doesn't show up until number five. The best advice they recommend is to stay home, which isn't an option or most, or to fly. If you must drive, then wear a seatbelt, make a plan for getting home if you're going to be drinking and don't speed.

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Most Dangerous Holiday Traffic Day

The most dangerous holiday to drive is New Year's Eve, right? Wrong! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the most dangerous holiday to take to the road is Thanksgiving. So be sure to drive safe this week. It seems that Thanksgiving is a perfect storm of event: long distance travel, packed roads, long days of drinking wine and beer, sleepy drivers from the turkey and general stress.

Independence Day is the second most dangerous day, followed by Memorial Day and Labor Day. New Year's Eve doesn't show up until number five. The best advice they recommend is to stay home, which isn't an option or most, or to fly. If you must drive, then wear a seatbelt, make a plan for getting home if you're going to be drinking and don't speed.

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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Will Smith: The Secret to Marriage Is...


It's sad that it's so abnormal, but the fact that Will Smith and wife Jada have made their Hollywood marriage last 11 years is something worth noting. It seems that marriages in Hollywood are in dog years. So what's their secret? In an interview with Essence magazine, Will says it's dedication. "The secret is removing divorce as an option. Anyone who gives themselves that option will get a divorce," says Will. Jada adds in the interview that in order for any relationship to survive, you need to work at it. Will says that in life, we're all alone. "But when somebody loves you, that experience is shared," says Will. "Love is the only real connective tissue that allows you to not live and die by yourself."

What's your secret to a successful marriage?

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Will Smith: The Secret to Marriage Is...


It's sad that it's so abnormal, but the fact that Will Smith and wife Jada have made their Hollywood marriage last 11 years is something worth noting. It seems that marriages in Hollywood are in dog years. So what's their secret? In an interview with Essence magazine, Will says it's dedication. "The secret is removing divorce as an option. Anyone who gives themselves that option will get a divorce," says Will. Jada adds in the interview that in order for any relationship to survive, you need to work at it. Will says that in life, we're all alone. "But when somebody loves you, that experience is shared," says Will. "Love is the only real connective tissue that allows you to not live and die by yourself."

What's your secret to a successful marriage?

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Will Smith: The Secret to Marriage Is...


It's sad that it's so abnormal, but the fact that Will Smith and wife Jada have made their Hollywood marriage last 11 years is something worth noting. It seems that marriages in Hollywood are in dog years. So what's their secret? In an interview with Essence magazine, Will says it's dedication. "The secret is removing divorce as an option. Anyone who gives themselves that option will get a divorce," says Will. Jada adds in the interview that in order for any relationship to survive, you need to work at it. Will says that in life, we're all alone. "But when somebody loves you, that experience is shared," says Will. "Love is the only real connective tissue that allows you to not live and die by yourself."

What's your secret to a successful marriage?

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Wednesday, November 12, 2008

One Couple's Cost Cutting Tips

We know times are tough...the market tumbled again a few hundred points today. If you're looking to save money here and there, check out the daily habits of this couple, which include unplugging all the electric devices in their home every morning before going to work. What have you done to save money?

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One Couple's Cost Cutting Tips

We know times are tough...the market tumbled again a few hundred points today. If you're looking to save money here and there, check out the daily habits of this couple, which include unplugging all the electric devices in their home every morning before going to work. What have you done to save money?

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One Couple's Cost Cutting Tips

We know times are tough...the market tumbled again a few hundred points today. If you're looking to save money here and there, check out the daily habits of this couple, which include unplugging all the electric devices in their home every morning before going to work. What have you done to save money?

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Tuesday, October 28, 2008

What to Do With Your Money


Are you a deer in headlights when it comes to your money in the market? You probably feel like the rodent that's been run over. Regardless, Newsweek offers some advice. It says to put your money back into the market--as much as you can--really. Their logic is that over the long haul, the market will go up. Here are some more specific bits of advice:

Put your money in a Roth IRA
"You'll pay income taxes on the amount you convert, but that amount is probably a lot lower than it would have been without the recent market rout. And given the astronomical deficits that Washington will have to fix sooner or later, your tax rate may be at an all-time low. Once your money is in a Roth, you'll be able to reap all the future earnings without paying taxes on them."

Invest for income.
"High-yield stocks and corporate bonds have been among the hardest hit in recent market sell-offs, but they are exactly what you want in your portfolio as you head into retirement"

Use a health savings account.
The theory behind these is that they enable you to save up to your deductible without paying taxes on it... For 2008, you can contribute $5,800 and an additional $900 in catch-up contributions if you're 55 or older."

What have you done with your money, anything?

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What to Do With Your Money


Are you a deer in headlights when it comes to your money in the market? You probably feel like the rodent that's been run over. Regardless, Newsweek offers some advice. It says to put your money back into the market--as much as you can--really. Their logic is that over the long haul, the market will go up. Here are some more specific bits of advice:

Put your money in a Roth IRA
"You'll pay income taxes on the amount you convert, but that amount is probably a lot lower than it would have been without the recent market rout. And given the astronomical deficits that Washington will have to fix sooner or later, your tax rate may be at an all-time low. Once your money is in a Roth, you'll be able to reap all the future earnings without paying taxes on them."

Invest for income.
"High-yield stocks and corporate bonds have been among the hardest hit in recent market sell-offs, but they are exactly what you want in your portfolio as you head into retirement"

Use a health savings account.
The theory behind these is that they enable you to save up to your deductible without paying taxes on it... For 2008, you can contribute $5,800 and an additional $900 in catch-up contributions if you're 55 or older."

What have you done with your money, anything?

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What to Do With Your Money


Are you a deer in headlights when it comes to your money in the market? You probably feel like the rodent that's been run over. Regardless, Newsweek offers some advice. It says to put your money back into the market--as much as you can--really. Their logic is that over the long haul, the market will go up. Here are some more specific bits of advice:

Put your money in a Roth IRA
"You'll pay income taxes on the amount you convert, but that amount is probably a lot lower than it would have been without the recent market rout. And given the astronomical deficits that Washington will have to fix sooner or later, your tax rate may be at an all-time low. Once your money is in a Roth, you'll be able to reap all the future earnings without paying taxes on them."

Invest for income.
"High-yield stocks and corporate bonds have been among the hardest hit in recent market sell-offs, but they are exactly what you want in your portfolio as you head into retirement"

Use a health savings account.
The theory behind these is that they enable you to save up to your deductible without paying taxes on it... For 2008, you can contribute $5,800 and an additional $900 in catch-up contributions if you're 55 or older."

What have you done with your money, anything?

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Monday, October 20, 2008

ADHD Kids Strain Marriages

It's not surprising that kids can affect and put strain on a marriage, but this stat is high. According to a study by State University of New York-Buffalo, parents of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are almost twice as likely as other parents to divorce by the time their child is 8 years old. The authors of the study say, however, that if you and your spouse can survive the eighth birthday, the rate of divorce stops climbing. Further adding to the stress is the fact that ADHD is hereditary and mothers with ADHD children are are 24 times more likely than other mothers to have it while fathers are five times more likely. Meaning, while trying to deal with a child, one of the parents is very likely to also have ADHD, which can be a point of conflict on its own. Some good news came out of this article from USA Today, researchers in Canada found no difference in divorce rate of parents with ADHD children. Do you have a child who's been diagnosed with ADHD; and has that affected your marriage?

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ADHD Kids Strain Marriages

It's not surprising that kids can affect and put strain on a marriage, but this stat is high. According to a study by State University of New York-Buffalo, parents of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are almost twice as likely as other parents to divorce by the time their child is 8 years old. The authors of the study say, however, that if you and your spouse can survive the eighth birthday, the rate of divorce stops climbing. Further adding to the stress is the fact that ADHD is hereditary and mothers with ADHD children are are 24 times more likely than other mothers to have it while fathers are five times more likely. Meaning, while trying to deal with a child, one of the parents is very likely to also have ADHD, which can be a point of conflict on its own. Some good news came out of this article from USA Today, researchers in Canada found no difference in divorce rate of parents with ADHD children. Do you have a child who's been diagnosed with ADHD; and has that affected your marriage?

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ADHD Kids Strain Marriages

It's not surprising that kids can affect and put strain on a marriage, but this stat is high. According to a study by State University of New York-Buffalo, parents of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are almost twice as likely as other parents to divorce by the time their child is 8 years old. The authors of the study say, however, that if you and your spouse can survive the eighth birthday, the rate of divorce stops climbing. Further adding to the stress is the fact that ADHD is hereditary and mothers with ADHD children are are 24 times more likely than other mothers to have it while fathers are five times more likely. Meaning, while trying to deal with a child, one of the parents is very likely to also have ADHD, which can be a point of conflict on its own. Some good news came out of this article from USA Today, researchers in Canada found no difference in divorce rate of parents with ADHD children. Do you have a child who's been diagnosed with ADHD; and has that affected your marriage?

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Friday, October 17, 2008

"Honey, It's Time for a Diet"

Belittling a loved one about being too fat and then undermining efforts to lose weight are common mistakes among couples according to experts in this article from MSNBC. For example, making jokes about your spouse's weight, then when they do start losing the pounds, bring home a thing of cookies. In this article, this scenario happened and the couple eventually got divorced. So how do you tell your spouse that they're gaining a little too much weight and you're worried about them? Here are a few tips:

1. Don't nag
2. Be loving
3. Don't judge
4. Help solve problems
5. Don't sabotage
6. Be a role model
7. Don't play cop
8. Be a role model

To get more in-depth explanations on these steps, click here. Do you think you're spouse needs to lose weight? Talk about it on our forum.

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"Honey, It's Time for a Diet"

Belittling a loved one about being too fat and then undermining efforts to lose weight are common mistakes among couples according to experts in this article from MSNBC. For example, making jokes about your spouse's weight, then when they do start losing the pounds, bring home a thing of cookies. In this article, this scenario happened and the couple eventually got divorced. So how do you tell your spouse that they're gaining a little too much weight and you're worried about them? Here are a few tips:

1. Don't nag
2. Be loving
3. Don't judge
4. Help solve problems
5. Don't sabotage
6. Be a role model
7. Don't play cop
8. Be a role model

To get more in-depth explanations on these steps, click here. Do you think you're spouse needs to lose weight? Talk about it on our forum.

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"Honey, It's Time for a Diet"

Belittling a loved one about being too fat and then undermining efforts to lose weight are common mistakes among couples according to experts in this article from MSNBC. For example, making jokes about your spouse's weight, then when they do start losing the pounds, bring home a thing of cookies. In this article, this scenario happened and the couple eventually got divorced. So how do you tell your spouse that they're gaining a little too much weight and you're worried about them? Here are a few tips:

1. Don't nag
2. Be loving
3. Don't judge
4. Help solve problems
5. Don't sabotage
6. Be a role model
7. Don't play cop
8. Be a role model

To get more in-depth explanations on these steps, click here. Do you think you're spouse needs to lose weight? Talk about it on our forum.

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Thursday, October 16, 2008

Don't Count on Holiday Bonuses

It may be a little early talking about the holidays, but they are just around the corner. And with the economy going crazy like it has, it's worth planning now than get stuck on December 24th with no bonus check for relief. The AP just came out with a story saying that many who are expecting and have received year-end or holiday bonuses in the past shouldn't expect to get them this year. Obviously if the company you work for is doing well and has been doing well, you may not have anything to worry about. Then again, they may be planning for rougher waters ahead. Either way, here's your friendly reminder that it's not wise to plan on non-guaranteed money.

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Don't Count on Holiday Bonuses

It may be a little early talking about the holidays, but they are just around the corner. And with the economy going crazy like it has, it's worth planning now than get stuck on December 24th with no bonus check for relief. The AP just came out with a story saying that many who are expecting and have received year-end or holiday bonuses in the past shouldn't expect to get them this year. Obviously if the company you work for is doing well and has been doing well, you may not have anything to worry about. Then again, they may be planning for rougher waters ahead. Either way, here's your friendly reminder that it's not wise to plan on non-guaranteed money.

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Don't Count on Holiday Bonuses

It may be a little early talking about the holidays, but they are just around the corner. And with the economy going crazy like it has, it's worth planning now than get stuck on December 24th with no bonus check for relief. The AP just came out with a story saying that many who are expecting and have received year-end or holiday bonuses in the past shouldn't expect to get them this year. Obviously if the company you work for is doing well and has been doing well, you may not have anything to worry about. Then again, they may be planning for rougher waters ahead. Either way, here's your friendly reminder that it's not wise to plan on non-guaranteed money.

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Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Secret to Happy Marriage: 4 Hugs a Day

A study, which this article from the Telegraph doesn't say from where, says four hugs a day is a key to a happy marriage. The study interviewed 4,000 couples and also found many other secrets. Like the four hugs, many are surprisingly specific. For example, seven evenings in together every month with two proper dinner dates. Another is two romantic walks a month and at least one visit to a pub or cinema without the children or other friends. Other highlights from the study are:

- Husbands should give their wife flowers or another gift at least once a month
- People to spend at least one evening away from their partner a month

What's the secret to your happy marriage?

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Secret to Happy Marriage: 4 Hugs a Day

A study, which this article from the Telegraph doesn't say from where, says four hugs a day is a key to a happy marriage. The study interviewed 4,000 couples and also found many other secrets. Like the four hugs, many are surprisingly specific. For example, seven evenings in together every month with two proper dinner dates. Another is two romantic walks a month and at least one visit to a pub or cinema without the children or other friends. Other highlights from the study are:

- Husbands should give their wife flowers or another gift at least once a month
- People to spend at least one evening away from their partner a month

What's the secret to your happy marriage?

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Secret to Happy Marriage: 4 Hugs a Day

A study, which this article from the Telegraph doesn't say from where, says four hugs a day is a key to a happy marriage. The study interviewed 4,000 couples and also found many other secrets. Like the four hugs, many are surprisingly specific. For example, seven evenings in together every month with two proper dinner dates. Another is two romantic walks a month and at least one visit to a pub or cinema without the children or other friends. Other highlights from the study are:

- Husbands should give their wife flowers or another gift at least once a month
- People to spend at least one evening away from their partner a month

What's the secret to your happy marriage?

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Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Stop the Wandering Eye

New research by Florida State University reveals that men and women have less temptation when their significant other is on their mind. This could be as simple as a phone call made when your husband is out with the boys or a text when your wife is out dancing with her friends. One of the study's authors, Gian Gonzaga says "This must be very deeply ingrained in us, because it happens so quickly, and we can't consciously control it. The findings show that both sexes can curb the urge to cheat by thinking about their significant others." Another study by UCLA showed that men and women just thinking about their mate curbs their attention toward the opposite sex. So go ahead and let your spouse have fun with their friends, just remind them before they leave or while they're out that you love them.

Do you have any rules about your spouse going out?

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Stop the Wandering Eye

New research by Florida State University reveals that men and women have less temptation when their significant other is on their mind. This could be as simple as a phone call made when your husband is out with the boys or a text when your wife is out dancing with her friends. One of the study's authors, Gian Gonzaga says "This must be very deeply ingrained in us, because it happens so quickly, and we can't consciously control it. The findings show that both sexes can curb the urge to cheat by thinking about their significant others." Another study by UCLA showed that men and women just thinking about their mate curbs their attention toward the opposite sex. So go ahead and let your spouse have fun with their friends, just remind them before they leave or while they're out that you love them.

Do you have any rules about your spouse going out?

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Stop the Wandering Eye

New research by Florida State University reveals that men and women have less temptation when their significant other is on their mind. This could be as simple as a phone call made when your husband is out with the boys or a text when your wife is out dancing with her friends. One of the study's authors, Gian Gonzaga says "This must be very deeply ingrained in us, because it happens so quickly, and we can't consciously control it. The findings show that both sexes can curb the urge to cheat by thinking about their significant others." Another study by UCLA showed that men and women just thinking about their mate curbs their attention toward the opposite sex. So go ahead and let your spouse have fun with their friends, just remind them before they leave or while they're out that you love them.

Do you have any rules about your spouse going out?

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Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Get Your Wife Into Gaming

Ok, so this article from MSNBC (click here) is on getting your girlfriend into gaming, but the same rules apply after you're hitched. The first rule: Don't be a jerk, meaning don't throw your controller, drop f-bombs, and ignore your spouse when they're right there next to you because you're engrossed in the game. Another tip is to pick the right game. Don't try and force them to like Halo if they're not into it. Remember, gaming is suppose to be fun. Some recommended games mentions are Harry Potter, Rock Band, and Elite Beat Agents. Finally, try playing co-op. Many games have a cooperative mode, where you and a buddy can tackle missions as a duo. Don't forget to compliment when your spouse on their video game successes either.

Do you and your spouse have a favorite game?

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Get Your Wife Into Gaming

Ok, so this article from MSNBC (click here) is on getting your girlfriend into gaming, but the same rules apply after you're hitched. The first rule: Don't be a jerk, meaning don't throw your controller, drop f-bombs, and ignore your spouse when they're right there next to you because you're engrossed in the game. Another tip is to pick the right game. Don't try and force them to like Halo if they're not into it. Remember, gaming is suppose to be fun. Some recommended games mentions are Harry Potter, Rock Band, and Elite Beat Agents. Finally, try playing co-op. Many games have a cooperative mode, where you and a buddy can tackle missions as a duo. Don't forget to compliment when your spouse on their video game successes either.

Do you and your spouse have a favorite game?

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Get Your Wife Into Gaming

Ok, so this article from MSNBC (click here) is on getting your girlfriend into gaming, but the same rules apply after you're hitched. The first rule: Don't be a jerk, meaning don't throw your controller, drop f-bombs, and ignore your spouse when they're right there next to you because you're engrossed in the game. Another tip is to pick the right game. Don't try and force them to like Halo if they're not into it. Remember, gaming is suppose to be fun. Some recommended games mentions are Harry Potter, Rock Band, and Elite Beat Agents. Finally, try playing co-op. Many games have a cooperative mode, where you and a buddy can tackle missions as a duo. Don't forget to compliment when your spouse on their video game successes either.

Do you and your spouse have a favorite game?

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Monday, September 08, 2008

Know What Gets Better With Age?

Marriage. So says, author Maggie Scarf in her new book "September Songs: The Good News About Marriage in the Later Years." Scarf has spent more than 30 years studying relationships and has been married herself for 55 years. USA Today interviewed Scarf and you can read the interview here. Here's what Scarf responded to the question of how do couples get better with age? "As you age, it's no secret that you lose memory, vision, hearing, but there is one domain in which you probably get a lot better, and that is emotional control and emotional processing. These emotional changes promote a motivation to get the toxic people out of your life."

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Know What Gets Better With Age?

Marriage. So says, author Maggie Scarf in her new book "September Songs: The Good News About Marriage in the Later Years." Scarf has spent more than 30 years studying relationships and has been married herself for 55 years. USA Today interviewed Scarf and you can read the interview here. Here's what Scarf responded to the question of how do couples get better with age? "As you age, it's no secret that you lose memory, vision, hearing, but there is one domain in which you probably get a lot better, and that is emotional control and emotional processing. These emotional changes promote a motivation to get the toxic people out of your life."

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Know What Gets Better With Age?

Marriage. So says, author Maggie Scarf in her new book "September Songs: The Good News About Marriage in the Later Years." Scarf has spent more than 30 years studying relationships and has been married herself for 55 years. USA Today interviewed Scarf and you can read the interview here. Here's what Scarf responded to the question of how do couples get better with age? "As you age, it's no secret that you lose memory, vision, hearing, but there is one domain in which you probably get a lot better, and that is emotional control and emotional processing. These emotional changes promote a motivation to get the toxic people out of your life."

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Monday, September 01, 2008

Put Marriage Before Kids

This article from The Christian Science Monitor says the secret to a happy marriage is to put your marriage before your kids. By making your kids the center of your universe, parents become anxious and exhausted and it's not just bad for marriage, but in the end it's bad for the kids too. Here are some tips from the article:
There are three keys to a successful marriage and family:

1) Recognize that we've already chosen the perfect spouse. No, we would NOT choose better next time;

2) Recognize how often our fight-or-flight instinct overrides our passion in marriage. To create a happy marriage, we need to go from the fantasy, "It's his/her fault that I'm unhappy" to the truth, "I wouldn't do any better in my next marriage, so I might as well give 100 percent to this one;" and

3) Recognize that if we build a great marriage, we create a great role model for our kids, and they learn self-reliance and cooperation in the process.

Do you find that your kids come before your relationship?

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Put Marriage Before Kids

This article from The Christian Science Monitor says the secret to a happy marriage is to put your marriage before your kids. By making your kids the center of your universe, parents become anxious and exhausted and it's not just bad for marriage, but in the end it's bad for the kids too. Here are some tips from the article:
There are three keys to a successful marriage and family:

1) Recognize that we've already chosen the perfect spouse. No, we would NOT choose better next time;

2) Recognize how often our fight-or-flight instinct overrides our passion in marriage. To create a happy marriage, we need to go from the fantasy, "It's his/her fault that I'm unhappy" to the truth, "I wouldn't do any better in my next marriage, so I might as well give 100 percent to this one;" and

3) Recognize that if we build a great marriage, we create a great role model for our kids, and they learn self-reliance and cooperation in the process.

Do you find that your kids come before your relationship?

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Put Marriage Before Kids

This article from The Christian Science Monitor says the secret to a happy marriage is to put your marriage before your kids. By making your kids the center of your universe, parents become anxious and exhausted and it's not just bad for marriage, but in the end it's bad for the kids too. Here are some tips from the article:
There are three keys to a successful marriage and family:

1) Recognize that we've already chosen the perfect spouse. No, we would NOT choose better next time;

2) Recognize how often our fight-or-flight instinct overrides our passion in marriage. To create a happy marriage, we need to go from the fantasy, "It's his/her fault that I'm unhappy" to the truth, "I wouldn't do any better in my next marriage, so I might as well give 100 percent to this one;" and

3) Recognize that if we build a great marriage, we create a great role model for our kids, and they learn self-reliance and cooperation in the process.

Do you find that your kids come before your relationship?

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Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Marriage, World of Warcraft Don't Always Mix

Men love video games. Women love video games too, but that's another post. Men who spend too much time playing World of Warcraft (WoW) could find themselves creating an unhealthy relationship environment. This self-professed writer and WoW addict uses guidelines such as setting time limits on his play (click here). This can be applied to all video games--Madden '09 just came out! For other tips, you could set aside a certain day you play, throw a game party, play when the other is out or asleep, or invite them to play with you. Out of curiosity, have you and your spouse argued over too much video game play? This reminds me of that movie with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn, The Break-up. Remember the scene where she's trying to get him to help get ready for a party and he's trying to squeeze in some Grand Theft Auto time? Like this one and in most other cases, video games aren't the problem just a symptom. Remember, video games are supposed to be fun, telling your friends and family you got divorced because you play them is not. Play responsibly.

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Marriage, World of Warcraft Don't Always Mix

Men love video games. Women love video games too, but that's another post. Men who spend too much time playing World of Warcraft (WoW) could find themselves creating an unhealthy relationship environment. This self-professed writer and WoW addict uses guidelines such as setting time limits on his play (click here). This can be applied to all video games--Madden '09 just came out! For other tips, you could set aside a certain day you play, throw a game party, play when the other is out or asleep, or invite them to play with you. Out of curiosity, have you and your spouse argued over too much video game play? This reminds me of that movie with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn, The Break-up. Remember the scene where she's trying to get him to help get ready for a party and he's trying to squeeze in some Grand Theft Auto time? Like this one and in most other cases, video games aren't the problem just a symptom. Remember, video games are supposed to be fun, telling your friends and family you got divorced because you play them is not. Play responsibly.

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Marriage, World of Warcraft Don't Always Mix

Men love video games. Women love video games too, but that's another post. Men who spend too much time playing World of Warcraft (WoW) could find themselves creating an unhealthy relationship environment. This self-professed writer and WoW addict uses guidelines such as setting time limits on his play (click here). This can be applied to all video games--Madden '09 just came out! For other tips, you could set aside a certain day you play, throw a game party, play when the other is out or asleep, or invite them to play with you. Out of curiosity, have you and your spouse argued over too much video game play? This reminds me of that movie with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn, The Break-up. Remember the scene where she's trying to get him to help get ready for a party and he's trying to squeeze in some Grand Theft Auto time? Like this one and in most other cases, video games aren't the problem just a symptom. Remember, video games are supposed to be fun, telling your friends and family you got divorced because you play them is not. Play responsibly.

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Friday, August 08, 2008

Train Like an Olympian

In case you haven't seen a newspaper, TV or been on the web recently, today is the start of the Beijing Olympics. When you're watching those finely tuned athletes perform swifter, higher and stronger and realize that you'll never be able to do that, it doesn't mean that you can't train like an Olympian. Best Life magazine interviewed a few Olympic coaches to get training tips for us non-Olympians. Larry Nicholson, assistant coach for USA Boxing says to get quick nimble feet, place eight cones three feet apart in a line, and then do three sets of each of the following exercises: Weave through them at a sprint, weave through them while high stepping, jump over them with your feet together, and weave through them while facing sideways.

Bob Bowman, coach to Michael Phelps says the key to Phelps success is his long swim stroke. To get you own gold-medal stroke consciously extend your arms. Bowman says, "It will feel awkward at first, like you're exaggerating each stroke, but once you start hitting those longer strokes at your previous short-stroke speed, you'll be faster, stronger, and fitter."

To read the advice of all the coaches, click here.

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Train Like an Olympian

In case you haven't seen a newspaper, TV or been on the web recently, today is the start of the Beijing Olympics. When you're watching those finely tuned athletes perform swifter, higher and stronger and realize that you'll never be able to do that, it doesn't mean that you can't train like an Olympian. Best Life magazine interviewed a few Olympic coaches to get training tips for us non-Olympians. Larry Nicholson, assistant coach for USA Boxing says to get quick nimble feet, place eight cones three feet apart in a line, and then do three sets of each of the following exercises: Weave through them at a sprint, weave through them while high stepping, jump over them with your feet together, and weave through them while facing sideways.

Bob Bowman, coach to Michael Phelps says the key to Phelps success is his long swim stroke. To get you own gold-medal stroke consciously extend your arms. Bowman says, "It will feel awkward at first, like you're exaggerating each stroke, but once you start hitting those longer strokes at your previous short-stroke speed, you'll be faster, stronger, and fitter."

To read the advice of all the coaches, click here.

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Train Like an Olympian

In case you haven't seen a newspaper, TV or been on the web recently, today is the start of the Beijing Olympics. When you're watching those finely tuned athletes perform swifter, higher and stronger and realize that you'll never be able to do that, it doesn't mean that you can't train like an Olympian. Best Life magazine interviewed a few Olympic coaches to get training tips for us non-Olympians. Larry Nicholson, assistant coach for USA Boxing says to get quick nimble feet, place eight cones three feet apart in a line, and then do three sets of each of the following exercises: Weave through them at a sprint, weave through them while high stepping, jump over them with your feet together, and weave through them while facing sideways.

Bob Bowman, coach to Michael Phelps says the key to Phelps success is his long swim stroke. To get you own gold-medal stroke consciously extend your arms. Bowman says, "It will feel awkward at first, like you're exaggerating each stroke, but once you start hitting those longer strokes at your previous short-stroke speed, you'll be faster, stronger, and fitter."

To read the advice of all the coaches, click here.

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Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Do Self Breast Exams Work?

According to Cochrane Collaboration, there is no evidence that monthly self exams reduce breast cancer deaths. This article in U.S. News & World Report then asks the question: What should you do then? While checking yourself regularly may not help according to the new findings, experts say if you do feel something unusual, get it checked out. The report also is not suggesting that self exams are bad, just that it's not correcting the breast cancer problem. It's not surprising, however, that some doctors still feel that self breast exams are helpful. The bottom line according to the article is that if you are currently conduction your own regular exams, you don't need to stop, but know it might not be as effective as once thought. And if you're not a regular self-examiner, you don't have to feel guilty about it.

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Do Self Breast Exams Work?

According to Cochrane Collaboration, there is no evidence that monthly self exams reduce breast cancer deaths. This article in U.S. News & World Report then asks the question: What should you do then? While checking yourself regularly may not help according to the new findings, experts say if you do feel something unusual, get it checked out. The report also is not suggesting that self exams are bad, just that it's not correcting the breast cancer problem. It's not surprising, however, that some doctors still feel that self breast exams are helpful. The bottom line according to the article is that if you are currently conduction your own regular exams, you don't need to stop, but know it might not be as effective as once thought. And if you're not a regular self-examiner, you don't have to feel guilty about it.

Labels: , , ,

Do Self Breast Exams Work?

According to Cochrane Collaboration, there is no evidence that monthly self exams reduce breast cancer deaths. This article in U.S. News & World Report then asks the question: What should you do then? While checking yourself regularly may not help according to the new findings, experts say if you do feel something unusual, get it checked out. The report also is not suggesting that self exams are bad, just that it's not correcting the breast cancer problem. It's not surprising, however, that some doctors still feel that self breast exams are helpful. The bottom line according to the article is that if you are currently conduction your own regular exams, you don't need to stop, but know it might not be as effective as once thought. And if you're not a regular self-examiner, you don't have to feel guilty about it.

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Monday, August 04, 2008

Couple Mark 70 Years of Marriage

British couple Arthur Lewis, 93, and Irene, 88 married on July 30, 1938 and just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. For their 60th and 65th anniversaries they received messages from the Queen. No royal congratulations this time, but they are satisfied with two prior recognitions. So what's the secret to their success? Mr Lewis said they had always managed to settle their disagreements. "We've had differences of opinion over quite a lot of things," he said. "But we never went to bed on an argument. We didn't make a big issue out of things, we've been partners in everything." What's the secret to your marriage success?

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Couple Mark 70 Years of Marriage

British couple Arthur Lewis, 93, and Irene, 88 married on July 30, 1938 and just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. For their 60th and 65th anniversaries they received messages from the Queen. No royal congratulations this time, but they are satisfied with two prior recognitions. So what's the secret to their success? Mr Lewis said they had always managed to settle their disagreements. "We've had differences of opinion over quite a lot of things," he said. "But we never went to bed on an argument. We didn't make a big issue out of things, we've been partners in everything." What's the secret to your marriage success?

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Couple Mark 70 Years of Marriage

British couple Arthur Lewis, 93, and Irene, 88 married on July 30, 1938 and just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. For their 60th and 65th anniversaries they received messages from the Queen. No royal congratulations this time, but they are satisfied with two prior recognitions. So what's the secret to their success? Mr Lewis said they had always managed to settle their disagreements. "We've had differences of opinion over quite a lot of things," he said. "But we never went to bed on an argument. We didn't make a big issue out of things, we've been partners in everything." What's the secret to your marriage success?

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Wednesday, July 02, 2008

Mindfulness and the Art of Choice

Our very own Dr. Karen Sherman has a new book out titled, "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice: Transform Your Life." Dr. Sherman was recently featured on the Reader Views website, which offers a review of her book, a video overview of what you can get out of her book, an interview with Dr. Sherman, and you can listen to the audio interview with Dr. Sherman. Here's a brief snippet of their review of her book:
There are many books on the market that cover the same issues as Dr. Sherman, however, there isn’t one that is as concise and to the point as "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" is. In less than 100 pages she helps the reader become aware of personal issues/reactions embedded in the memory. Within a few simple exercises we can change the feelings associated with the situation. At the same time we can move away from recreating those same feelings in another situation. It may sound like a difficult task, and it could be. However, Dr. Sherman simplifies everything for us through her explanations and exercises--to a point where "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" becomes truly a self-help book.


If you weren't aware, Dr. Sherman is a regular guest on the Hitched Podcast and can also be found on the Hitched website here.

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Mindfulness and the Art of Choice

Our very own Dr. Karen Sherman has a new book out titled, "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice: Transform Your Life." Dr. Sherman was recently featured on the Reader Views website, which offers a review of her book, a video overview of what you can get out of her book, an interview with Dr. Sherman, and you can listen to the audio interview with Dr. Sherman. Here's a brief snippet of their review of her book:
There are many books on the market that cover the same issues as Dr. Sherman, however, there isn’t one that is as concise and to the point as "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" is. In less than 100 pages she helps the reader become aware of personal issues/reactions embedded in the memory. Within a few simple exercises we can change the feelings associated with the situation. At the same time we can move away from recreating those same feelings in another situation. It may sound like a difficult task, and it could be. However, Dr. Sherman simplifies everything for us through her explanations and exercises--to a point where "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" becomes truly a self-help book.


If you weren't aware, Dr. Sherman is a regular guest on the Hitched Podcast and can also be found on the Hitched website here.

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Mindfulness and the Art of Choice

Our very own Dr. Karen Sherman has a new book out titled, "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice: Transform Your Life." Dr. Sherman was recently featured on the Reader Views website, which offers a review of her book, a video overview of what you can get out of her book, an interview with Dr. Sherman, and you can listen to the audio interview with Dr. Sherman. Here's a brief snippet of their review of her book:
There are many books on the market that cover the same issues as Dr. Sherman, however, there isn’t one that is as concise and to the point as "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" is. In less than 100 pages she helps the reader become aware of personal issues/reactions embedded in the memory. Within a few simple exercises we can change the feelings associated with the situation. At the same time we can move away from recreating those same feelings in another situation. It may sound like a difficult task, and it could be. However, Dr. Sherman simplifies everything for us through her explanations and exercises--to a point where "Mindfulness and the Art of Choice" becomes truly a self-help book.


If you weren't aware, Dr. Sherman is a regular guest on the Hitched Podcast and can also be found on the Hitched website here.

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Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Marriage Counseling Online

You thought eHarmony was just for people looking to hook up? Well, it used to be, but now they've added eHarmony Marriage, an online program to help couples work through their troubles. This article from The Christian Science Monitor says couples get started by filling out a 40-minute online questionnaire covering issues ranging from finances to housework, trust, family relationships, and spirituality. Each partner answers separately. Their responses generate a computer report outlining their strengths and weaknesses as a couple. Couples pay $150 for the program, which typically takes six to eight weeks to complete. This sounds like a good first step for couples to take if their marriage is in trouble, of course, after reading through our archives of articles! Les Parrott, who created the program says this computerized therapy isn't a replacement of face-to-face counseling, however. Is this something you'd consider?

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Marriage Counseling Online

You thought eHarmony was just for people looking to hook up? Well, it used to be, but now they've added eHarmony Marriage, an online program to help couples work through their troubles. This article from The Christian Science Monitor says couples get started by filling out a 40-minute online questionnaire covering issues ranging from finances to housework, trust, family relationships, and spirituality. Each partner answers separately. Their responses generate a computer report outlining their strengths and weaknesses as a couple. Couples pay $150 for the program, which typically takes six to eight weeks to complete. This sounds like a good first step for couples to take if their marriage is in trouble, of course, after reading through our archives of articles! Les Parrott, who created the program says this computerized therapy isn't a replacement of face-to-face counseling, however. Is this something you'd consider?

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Marriage Counseling Online

You thought eHarmony was just for people looking to hook up? Well, it used to be, but now they've added eHarmony Marriage, an online program to help couples work through their troubles. This article from The Christian Science Monitor says couples get started by filling out a 40-minute online questionnaire covering issues ranging from finances to housework, trust, family relationships, and spirituality. Each partner answers separately. Their responses generate a computer report outlining their strengths and weaknesses as a couple. Couples pay $150 for the program, which typically takes six to eight weeks to complete. This sounds like a good first step for couples to take if their marriage is in trouble, of course, after reading through our archives of articles! Les Parrott, who created the program says this computerized therapy isn't a replacement of face-to-face counseling, however. Is this something you'd consider?

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Monday, June 23, 2008

Perfect Husband Tips

Best Life magazine author Hugh O'Neill has written an article giving numerous tips on how to be the perfect husband. Do these tips work? Apparently for O'Neill they do, considering he proclaims to be the world's best husband. I actually think it's pretty cool that he makes this claim. Why not be prideful in being a great spouse? Anyway, here are some of his tips:
1. Kill the words "never" and "always." O'Neill explains that they're gas on fire words.
2. Save and focus your "husband" attention at pivotal times throughout the day. For example, when you come home from work and meet up with your spouse, that's a good time to focus your energy on being a good husband.
3. Laugh at your wife's attempts at humor. O'Neill says it's a sign of respect.

O'Neill has more tips, but you'll have to click here to read them. Also, what's your best tip for being a good spouse? Click here are start a discussion.

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Perfect Husband Tips

Best Life magazine author Hugh O'Neill has written an article giving numerous tips on how to be the perfect husband. Do these tips work? Apparently for O'Neill they do, considering he proclaims to be the world's best husband. I actually think it's pretty cool that he makes this claim. Why not be prideful in being a great spouse? Anyway, here are some of his tips:
1. Kill the words "never" and "always." O'Neill explains that they're gas on fire words.
2. Save and focus your "husband" attention at pivotal times throughout the day. For example, when you come home from work and meet up with your spouse, that's a good time to focus your energy on being a good husband.
3. Laugh at your wife's attempts at humor. O'Neill says it's a sign of respect.

O'Neill has more tips, but you'll have to click here to read them. Also, what's your best tip for being a good spouse? Click here are start a discussion.

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Perfect Husband Tips

Best Life magazine author Hugh O'Neill has written an article giving numerous tips on how to be the perfect husband. Do these tips work? Apparently for O'Neill they do, considering he proclaims to be the world's best husband. I actually think it's pretty cool that he makes this claim. Why not be prideful in being a great spouse? Anyway, here are some of his tips:
1. Kill the words "never" and "always." O'Neill explains that they're gas on fire words.
2. Save and focus your "husband" attention at pivotal times throughout the day. For example, when you come home from work and meet up with your spouse, that's a good time to focus your energy on being a good husband.
3. Laugh at your wife's attempts at humor. O'Neill says it's a sign of respect.

O'Neill has more tips, but you'll have to click here to read them. Also, what's your best tip for being a good spouse? Click here are start a discussion.

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Wednesday, June 04, 2008

Tech and Internet Don'ts for Marrieds

There's no doubt that technology plays a huge part in our lives. If you're a young married couple, you might find that it plays an even bigger role in your life considering the Facebook profile you must keep up with, the websites you read daily, the podcasts you listen to and so on. This column from Connected Internet offers four items to look out for when you're married. 1. Don't spend all day blogging. 2. If you must blog, make some money doing it. 3. Don't make any major tech purchases without first consulting your partner. 4. If you have made a purchase, wait a while before you even consider your next one. Each one of these points is given more thought and explanation that you can read here. What's your bad technology habit and how has it affected your relationship?

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