|
Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
>
>>
>>>
| |
|
|
I can't explain the rush & excitement after seeing the "Secret Diary of a Call Girl Season 3. This is the next step on the ladder of a highclass escort.
I miss BELLE... She continuously inspires me to be a signature escort--which brought me success...
Here is the synopsis:
Belle's back
Based on the best-selling, real life diaries of an upmarket escort, Secret Diary of a Call Girl allows us a deeper look into the world of the glamorous and intelligent Belle.
Belle is now juggling being Hannah, a high-class independent escort and a published author. It’s a constant struggle to keep her numerous identities hidden, a struggle which becomes harder when her sister Jackie comes to stay.
When Jackie starts dating Ben and Bambi falls in love with a client, the hedonistic, young aristocrat Byron, it seems that everyone is in a relationship except Belle. There is only one man who understands her – Duncan, the editor of her book. Is this a man who can accept Belle for what she is?
She's about to find out.
|
Added on: 02/22/10 17:53
Comments (1)
|
|
|
|
When it comes to finances, each sign of the zodiac has its own approach and is attracted to certain types of businesses and investment opportunities. Explore your Sun sign's likely investing style below.
Aries (March 21 to April 19)
Adrenalin junkie of the zodiac, you're drawn to high-risk investments like venture capital or hedge funds. Aries rules sports and athletics, and these might be areas if interest, whether in a sports team or sporting goods store. Patience is not your virtue, so keep a sensible Earth sign friend on hand to advise you before jumping into any get-rich-quick schemes -- and actually listen to their advice.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20)
Not a gambler by nature, you prefer reliable and slow-building money-making strategies. As the sign of Earth stewardship and resource conservation, "green" businesses will probably appeal to your eco-consciousness. You may be attracted to investing in agricultural industries, especially of the organic variety.
Gemini (May 21 to June 20)
Telecommunications and media are obvious investment inclinations for an information addict like yourself. Fast-talking Gemini rules sales and trade, and you enjoy bargaining and negotiating, so the process of buying and selling stocks might be more exciting for you than the actual material results. You're also more likely to have your money in several different investments.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22)
As the sign of motherhood and nurturing, Cancer rules food-related industries -- such as restaurants and grocery stores -- as well as hotels and inns. Real estate is another interest for Cancers. These industries appeal to your cautious and resourceful nature -- after all, people will always need a place to live and food to eat.
Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)
Leos are usually successful investors since their intuition is spot-on, especially when following their heart. Leos are especially drawn to financial speculation and anything dealing with the entertainment business. Investing in these areas seems to afford you proximity (at least by association) to the glamour you adore. Leo also rules gold -- which is another area of interest.
Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)
Thrifty and industrious, Virgos are more likely to slowly amass a fortune through hard work and careful calculation, avoiding risky high-yield opportunities. Their investments often reflect Virgo's lofty ideals -- Earth-friendly cleaning supplies, natural self-care products or healing remedies, organic foods and "clean" energy are all likely candidates. Virgos want every penny to make a positive difference.
Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)
Your likely investment interests include all beauty- and aesthetics-related industries -- fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, design and the arts. Libra also rules sweets (one of your weaknesses), so sugar or candy manufacturing, or a sweets shop, are other possibilities. As the sign of partnership, you might be drawn to investing in business ventures of friends and family members.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)
As the sign concerned with transformation in the deepest sense of the word, you're attracted to investments that can bring about lasting social change. Scorpios also tend to follow their passion in deciding which stocks to buy. This sign rules the dark side and all taboo subjects, including sex and death -- both of which are eternal growth industries. So a typical Scorpio investment might involve could be funeral homes, crematoria or graveyards.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)
As a lover of all things international, investment in foreign currencies or businesses appeals to you -- especially because it gives you an excuse to travel. Companies concerned with publishing, education and marketing are other interests. Your over-optimism and impatience could potentially lead to dicey decisions resulting in financial loss -- fortunately, Sagittarians always bounce back quickly.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)
Not one to jump into a high-risk venture, you are more likely to invest in businesses and industries that deal in tangibles and have stood the test of time. Construction and real estate are especially appealing. As the sign of longevity, Capricorn rules old age and products or services associated with seniors, such as assisted living facilities -- another potential area of interest for you.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)
Idealistic and humanitarian, you see the opportunity for bringing about change through socially responsible investing, and are especially attracted to alternative energy technologies. The high-tech and computer industries are ruled by Aquarius and could also appeal to you -- as long as the companies have strong pro-labor and eco-friendly track records.
Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)
Your investing style might be more intuitive than rational. Pharmaceuticals, hospitals and prisons all fall under Pisces rulership and are potential companies a Pisces might have in their stock portfolio. More fun Fish-related investment opportunities could be found in vineyards and wineries, and the film and music industries
|
Added on: 02/15/10 16:25
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
I love this song! A sweet escape from reality --- is something you will never experience from any other job. Since I started in this industry, I met wonderful people--who became so dear to me...I admit, there are times I wish , I can love them unconditionally...-- -but our friendships are so great-- that I dont wanna lose them.. Thank you to my regulars,
For their unwavering love... I will always be your sweet brew...that will blend on the bitterness in your life .....your sweet seduction, simple yet so NATURAL....
Thank you for being such a friend to me
Oh I pray a friend for life,
And have I ever told you how much you mean to me?
Oh youre everything to me
I'm thinking all the time I could tell you what I feel,
I'm contemplating phrases,
I'm gazing on eternity,
I am floating in serenity...
And I am so lost for words
And I am so overwhelmed
Please don't go just yet
Can you stay a moment please
We can dance together
We can dance forever
Under your stars tonight
We'll live and breathe this dream
So close your eyes, but don't dream too deep
And please pass me some memories
And when I fall you're underneath
A thousand broken hearts, carried by a thousand broken wings
A thousand broken wings
|
Added on: 02/10/10 02:57
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
I miss you (website) ! After a month, here I go again, telling my thoughts..sharing the escapades I've been through.
First, let me tell you that I've been in a training for twenty four days now (non-voiced account), Well, we are now in transition..sooner or later I'll be in a different team..
I was really overwhelmed (Fact: that I passed the Communication & Product Specific Training). I promised myself not to associate whoring with working.. but seems like some men already showed interest (decent infatuation)....and one of them go the extra mile.
I experienced how to be a normal employee.. striving hard for the paycheck...I adore the eagerness on the eyes of my new officemates.. I realized how these people stay positive in life ...
But at the back of my mind..I feel the rush (that these team mates have no idea of what I am after work)..
I'll tell you more stories...on my next blog! ---Midnight Brew---
|
Added on: 02/06/10 12:02
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
All other comments, requests, and compliments I asked be placed in my diary here. I truly love to hear from you, even if you are not booking today, and I read and respond to all the comments written in my diary. It helps me out tremendously that my contact form only be used when you are ready to reserve your appointment today.
Name
Email
Phone Number (optional)
Booking Type
Preferred Date of Appointment
Preferred Time of Appointment
Length of Appointment
City Where You Want Us To Meet
Companion(s) who can provide you with a reference
I require at least one reference from another escort you have seen. Two or more are better as it increases the chances of my getting in contact with someone to vouch for you. Please include their web sites, email addresses and/or phone numbers. I also need your name, the contact number/email these references have for you and the approximate date you last saw them.
Tell me a little bit about you
I’m looking forward to our erotic escape together.
Sincerely,
Midnight Brew
|
Added on: 01/11/10 14:27
Comments (1)
|
|
|
|
iF ONLY i CAN BRING BACK TIME.... I wanna spend my life with my idol..the late rico yan...I miss him...
Ricardo Carlos Castro Yan (March 14, 1975 – March 29, 2002) was a Filipino matinee idol, model and actor. He was under an exclusive contract in the ABS-CBN Broadcasting Network. Yan was a member of ABS-CBN's circle of homegrown talents named Star Magic. He graduated from De La Salle University-Manila, with a degree in Business Management. He was a Youth Spokesman for the Department of Education before he died, touring the Philippines for free to promote education among youths. He was an image model and entrepreneur as well. Rico also established "Pinoy 'Yan!" a non-profit organization that aims to make young people stay in school and value education.
|
Added on: 01/11/10 13:41
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
(Take Some Time to go Through with Patience. Some good advice for trying times!)
What is this principle?
10% of life is made up of what happens to you.
90% of life is decided by how you react.
What does this mean? We really have no control over 10% of what happens to us.
We cannot stop the car from breaking down. The plane will be late arriving, which throws our whole schedule off. A driver may cut us off in traffic. We have no control over this 10%. The other 90% is different. You determine the other 90%. How? By your reaction.
You cannot control a red light. But you can control your reaction. Don't let people fool you; YOU can control how you react.
Let's use an example.
You are eating breakfast with your family. Your daughter knocks over a cup of coffee onto your business shirt. You have no control over what just happened. What happens next will be determined by how you react .
You curse.
You harshly scold your daughter for knocking the cup over. She breaks down in tears. You turn to your spouse and criticize her. A short verbal battle follows. You storm upstairs and change your shirt. Back downstairs, you find your daughter has been too busy crying to finish breakfast and get ready for school. She misses the bus.
When you arrive home, you find small wedge in your relationship with your spouse and daughter.
Why? The way you reacted in the morning.
Why did you have a bad day?
A) Did the coffee cause it? B) Did your daughter cause it? C) Did the policeman cause it? D) Did you cause it?
The answer is "D".
You had no control over what happened with the coffee. How you reacted in those 5 seconds is what caused your bad day.
Here is what could have and should have happened.
Coffee splashes over you. Your daughter is about to cry. You gently say, "Its ok, you just need to be more careful next time". see your child getting on the bus. She turns and waves. You arrive 5 minutes early and cheerfully .Notice the difference?
Two different scenarios. Both started the same. Both ended different.
Why? Because of how you REACTED.
You really do not have any control over 10% of what happens. The other 90% was determined by your reaction.
Here are some ways to apply the 90/10 principle. If someone says something negative about you, don't be a sponge. Let the attack roll off like water on glass. You don't have to let the negative comment affect you!
React properly and it will not ruin your day. A wrong reaction could result in losing a friend, being fired, getting stressed out etc.
Remember the 90/10 principle, and do not worry about it.
The result?
Millions of people are suffering from undeserved stress, trials, problems and heartache. We all must understand and apply the 90/10 principle. It CAN change your life!!!
|
Added on: 01/11/10 11:37
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
1. But everybody looks funny naked!
2. You woke me up for that?
3. Did I mention the video camera?
4. Do you smell something burning?
5. (in a janitor's closet) And they say romance is dead...
6. Try breathing through your nose.
7. A little rug burn ever hurt anyone!
8. Is that a Medic-Alert Pendant?
9. Sweetheart, did you lock the back door?
10. But whipped cream makes me break out.
11. Person 1 This is your first time..right? Person 2 Yeah.. today
12. (in the No Tell Motel) Hurry up! This room rents by the Hour!
13. Can you please pass me the remote control?
14. Do you accept Visa?
15. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ ZZZZZZZZZZZZ
16. On second thought, let's turn off the lights.
17. And to think- I was really trying to pick up your friend!
18. So much for mouth-to-mouth.
19. (using body paint) Try not to leave any stains, okay?
20. Hope you're as good looking when I'm sober...
21. (holding a banana) It's just a little trick I learned at the zoo!
22. Do you get any premium movie channels?
23. Try not to smear my make-up, will ya!
24. (preparing to use peanut butter sexually) But I just steam-cleaned this couch!
25. Got any penicillin?
26. But I just brushed my teeth...
27. Smile, you're on Candid Camera!
28. I thought you had the keys to the handcuffs!
29. I want a baby!
30. So much for the fulfillment of sexual fantasies!
31. (in a menage a trois) Why am I doing all the work?
32. Maybe we should call Dr. Ruth...
33. Did you know the ceiling needs painting?
34. I think you have it on backwards.
35. When is this supposed to feel good?
36. Put that blender back in the kitchen where it belongs!
37. You're good enough to do this for a living!
38. Is that blood on the headboard?
39. Did I remember to take my pill?
40. Are you sure I don't know you from somewhere?
41. I wish we got the Playboy channel...
42. That leak better be from the waterbed!
43. I told you it wouldn't work without batteries!
44. But my cat always sleeps on that pillow..
45. Did I tell you my Aunt Martha died in this bed?
46. If you quit smoking you might have more endurance..
47. No, really... I do this part better myself!
48. It's nice being in bed with a woman I don't have to inflate!
49. This would be more fun with a few more people..
50. You're almost as good as my ex!
51. Do you know the definition of statutory rape?
52. Is that you I smell or is it your mattress stuffed with rotten potatoes?
53. You look younger than you feel.
54. Perhaps you're just out of practice.
55. You sweat more than a galloping stallion!
56. They're not cracker crumbs, it's just a rash.
57. Now I know why he/she dumped you...
58. Does your husband own a sawed-off shotgun?
59. You give me reason to conclude that foreplay is overrated.
60. What tampon?
61. Have you ever considered liposuction?
62. And to think, I didn't even have to buy you dinner!
63. What are you planning to make for breakfast?
64. I have a confession...
65. I was so horny tonight I would have taken a duck home!
66. Are those real or am I just behind the times?
67. Were you by any chance repressed as a child?
68. Is that a hanging sculpture?
69. You'll still vote for me, won't you?
70. Did I mention my transsexual operation?
71. I really hate women who actually think sex means something!
72. Did you come yet, dear?
73. I'll tell you who I'm fanatasizing about if you tell me who you're fantasizing about...
74. A good plastic surgeon can take care of that in no time!
75. Does this count as a date?
76. Oprah Winfrey had a show about men like you!
77. Hic! I need another beer for this please.
78. I think biting is romantic- don't you?
79. Q: You can cook, too right? A: (Whaddaya think I'm doin'?)
80. When would you like to meet my parents?
81. Man: Maybe it would help if I thought about someone I really like... Woman: Yourself?
82. Have you seen "Fatal Attraction"?
83. Sorry about the name tags, I'm not very good with names.
84. Don't mind me.. I always file my nails in bed.
85. (in a phone booth) Do you mind if I make a few phone calls?
86. I hope I didn't forget to turn the gas oven off. Do you have a light?
87. Don't worry, my dog's really friendly for a Doberman.
88. Sorry but I don't do toes!
89. You could at least ACT like you're enjoying it!
90. Petroleum jelly or no petroleum jelly, I said NO!
91. Keep it down, my mother is a light sleeper...
92. I'll bet you didn't know I work for "The Enquirer".
93. So that's why they call you MR. Flash!
94. My old girlfriend used to do it a LOT longer!
95. Is this a sin too?
96. I've slept with more women than Wilt Chamberlain!
97. Hey, when is it going to be my friend's turn?
98. Long kisses clog my sinuses...
99. Please understand that I'm only doing this for a raise...
100. How long do you plan to be "almost there"?
101. You mean you're NOT my blind date?
|
Added on: 01/11/10 11:36
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
1. Get and stay out of your comfort zone:
I believe that not much happens of any significance when we're in our comfort zone. I hear people say, "But I'm concerned about security." My response to that is simple: "Security is for cadavers."
2. Never give up:
Almost nothing works the first time it's attempted. Just because what you're doing does not seem to be working, doesn't mean it won't work. It just means that it might not work the way you're doing it. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it, and you wouldn't have an opportunity.
3. When you're ready to quit, you're closer than you think:
There's an old Chinese saying that I just love, and I believe it is so true. It goes like this: "The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed."
4. With regard to whatever worries you, not only accept the worst thing that could happen, but make it a point to quantify what the worst thing could be:
Very seldom will the worst consequence be anywhere near as bad as a cloud of "undefined consequences." My father would tell me early on, when I was struggling and losing my shirt trying to get Parsons Technology going, "Well, Robert, if it doesn't work, they can't eat you."
5. Focus on what you want to have happen:
Remember that old saying, "As you think, so shall you be."
6. Take things a day at a time:
No matter how difficult your situation is, you can get through it if you don't look too far into the future, and focus on the present moment. You can get through anything one day at a time.
7. Always be moving forward. Never stop investing:
Never stop improving. Never stop doing something new. The moment you stop improving your organization, it starts to die. Make it your goal to be better each and every day, in some small way. Remember the Japanese concept of Kaizen. Small daily improvements eventually result in huge advantages.
8. Be quick to decide:
Remember what the Union Civil War general, Tecumseh Sherman said: "A good plan violently executed today is far and away better than a perfect plan tomorrow."
9. Measure everything of significance:
I swear this is true. Anything that is measured and watched, improves.
10. Anything that is not managed will deteriorate:
If you want to uncover problems you don't know about, take a few moments and look closely at the areas you haven't examined for a while. I guarantee you problems will be there.
11. Pay attention to your competitors, but pay more attention to what you're doing:
When you look at your competitors, remember that everything looks perfect at a distance. Even the planet Earth, if you get far enough into space, looks like a peaceful place.
12. Never let anybody push you around:
In our society, with our laws and even playing field, you have just as much right to what you're doing as anyone else, provided that what you're doing is legal.
13. Never expect life to be fair. Life isn't fair:
You make your own breaks. You'll be doing good if the only meaning fair has to you, is something that you pay when you get on a bus (i.e., fare).
14. Solve your own problems:
You'll find that by coming up with your own solutions, you'll develop a competitive edge. Masura Ibuka, the co-founder of SONY, said it best: "You never succeed in technology, business, or anything by following the others." There's also an old Asian saying that I remind myself of frequently. It goes like this: "A wise man keeps his own counsel."
15. Don't take yourself too seriously:
Lighten up. Often, at least half of what we accomplish is due to luck. None of us are in control as much as we like to think we are.
16. There's always a reason to smile. Find it:
After all, you're really lucky just to be alive. Life is short. More and more, I agree with my little brother. He always reminds me: "We're not here for a long time; we're here for a good time."
|
Added on: 01/11/10 11:29
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
Ever wondered if these companies just Babelfished the slogans into another language.
13) When Parker Pen marketed a ball-point pen in Mexico, its ads were supposed to have read, "It won't leak in your pocket and embarrass you." The company thought that the word "embarazar" (to impregnate) meant to embarrass, so the ad read: "It won't leak in your pocket and make you pregnant."
12) Scandinavian vacuum manufacturer Electrolux used the following in an American campaign: "Nothing Sucks like an Electrolux."
11) Clairol introduced the "Mist Stick," a curling iron, into Germany only to find out that "mist" is slang for manure. Not too many people had use for the "Manure Stick."
10) Coors put its slogan, "Turn It Loose," into Spanish, where it was read as "Suffer From Diarrhea."
9) Pepsi's "Come Alive With the Pepsi Generation" translated into "Pepsi Brings Your Ancestors Back From the Grave" in Chinese.
8) When Gerber started selling baby food in Africa, they used the same packaging as in the US, with the smiling baby on the label. Later they learned that in Africa, companies routinely put pictures on the labels of what's inside, since many people can't read.
7) Colgate introduced a toothpaste in France called Cue, the name of a notorious porno magazine.
6) Frank Perdue's chicken slogan, "It takes a strong man to make a tender chicken," was translated into Spanish as "it takes an aroused man to make a chicken affectionate."
5) When American Airlines wanted to advertise its new leather first class seats in the Mexican market, it translated its "Fly In Leather" campaign literally, which meant "Fly Naked" (vuela en cuero) in Spanish.
4) An American T-shirt maker in Miami printed shirts for the Spanish market which promoted the Pope's visit. Instead of "I saw the Pope" (el Papa), the shirts read "I Saw the Potato" (la papa).
3) The Dairy Association's huge success with the campaign "Got Milk?" prompted them to expand advertising to Mexico. It was soon brought to their attention the Spanish translation read "Are You Lactating?"
2) General Motors had a very famous fiasco in trying to market the Nova car in Central and South America. "No va" in Spanish means, "It Doesn't Go".
1) The Coca-Cola name in China was first read as "Kekoukela", meaning "Bite the Wax Tadpole" or "Female Horse Stuffed with Wax", depending on the dialect. Coke then researched 40,000 characters to find a phonetic equivalent "kokoukole", translating into "Happiness in the Mouth."
|
Added on: 01/11/10 11:28
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
For job seekers without a four-year degree, breaking the $25-an-hour barrier can be a challenge. But with more technical certification and associate's degree programs than ever, many well-paying career options are accessible in a broad range of industries.
The following is a list of lucrative careers for those without a four-year degree, presented with median annual salary data from PayScale.com. That figure is then broken down to an hourly rate by dividing by 2080, the typical number of working hours in a year, according to PayScale.
1. Sales director
"If you are interested in a career change, but do not want to commit to further education, consider a sales career," says Sharon Reed Abboud, the author of "All Moms Work, Short-Term Career Strategies for Long-Range Success." Sales directors oversee sales staff to help meet objectives, plan and implement sales programs, and work to maintain budgets, among many other duties. While formal training is not a requirement for this position, sales experience and an outgoing personality are vital, according to Abboud. "Successful sales persons can often have the opportunity to climb the career ladder to increasingly lucrative management positions," she explains.
Sales director: $91,900/ $44 per hour
2. Security administrators, computer network
"As technology increases its reach, cyber crime is becoming a major concern for companies," says Debra Yergen, author of the "Creating Job Security Resource Guide." Security administrators work to prevent, troubleshoot, and repair security breaches while educating network users on cyber safety. Certification or relevant experience is essential to entry to this field, especially in absence of a four-year degree.
Security administrators, computer network: $72,000/ $35 per hour
3. Elevator installer/repairer
Elevator assembly, installation and maintenance are the main responsibilities of this position. Participating in an apprenticeship program coupled with paid on-the-job training is the standard, and workers must pass a licensing exam. Union membership is typically required by employers, and unions can help to ensure "an excellent salary, benefits, and pension," says Marky Stein, author of "Get a Great Job When You Don't Have a Job."
Elevator installer/repairer: $67,100/ $32 per hour
4. Real estate broker
Usually commission-based, real estate brokers' salaries are sensitive to shifts in the economy. Despite the current real estate market, Yergen predicts "resurgence in salary in 2010 with the extension of the housing tax credit." Brokers are tasked with understanding real estate markets, performing transactions, and advising buyers on their financing options. Additionally, real estate brokers must pass a written exam and maintain a license.
Real estate broker: $65,400/ $31 per hour
5. Nuclear medicine technologist
"Nuclear medicine technologists administer a type of drug called radiopharmaceuticals to patients and create diagnostic images that ultimately determine the presence of a disease," explains Yergen. With an increasingly large middle-aged and elderly population and advances in technology, job growth for nuclear medicine technologists is likely to remain steady. A certificate or an associate's degree is needed, and a license is a requirement for many employers and states.
Nuclear medicine technologist: $64,100/ $31 per hour
6. Radiation therapist
Administering radiation treatment to cancer patients is the main role of a radiation therapist. "As radiation therapists continue to be a critical part of the medical radiation oncology team, it will translate into an uptick of jobs," predicts Yergen. There is also room for personal advancement in this field, with opportunities that include teaching and research. Training through an associate's degree or certification program is necessary, and a license is required in many states.
Radiation therapist: $63,500 / $31 per hour
7. Construction manager
Construction managers oversee the construction of structures, facilities, and systems, and are often on call around the clock. On-the-job construction experience and/or completing a construction management certification program provide entry to this position.
Construction manager: $63,400/ $30 per hour
8. Air traffic controller
"As an air traffic controller, your job will be dedicated to keeping the skies safe. It is a very demanding and rewarding occupation." says Abboud. Providing an essential role in aviation, air traffic controllers ensure that planes maintain a safe distance between each other and help to coordinate efficient scheduling.
With most positions employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), air traffic controllers must complete a FAA-approved education program and pass a pre-employment test.
Air traffic controller: $63,000/ $30 per hour
9. Video game designer
Video game designers create the storyline and structure of a video game and determine the rules of play. They typically need to possess an understanding of software design and computer programming, and a degree or certification from a technical school can provide an advantage. Although currently at a point of high popularity, video games tend to go through phases of increased and decreased popularity, cautions Yergen.
Video game designer: $62,300/ $30 per hour
10. MRI technologist
MRI technologists train in programs available through hospitals, colleges and universities to earn a certificate or associate's degree. With more doctors' offices and clinics providing diagnostic services, demand is higher than ever, says Yergen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), "Health care will generate 3 million new wage and salary jobs between 2006 and 2016, more than any other industry."
MRI technologist: $61,000/ $29 per hour
Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-9 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing. Hourly rates are calculated by dividing the yearly salary by $2080.
|
Added on: 01/11/10 10:32
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
21st century definition of B.I.T.C.H. An empowering name, a compliment, a title that all women should embrace. It is a woman who is proud of who she is, stands up for herself, knows what she wants, and is willing to take risks, all in a pleasant but strong feminine manner.
B. I. T. C. H.
BEAUTIFUL INTELLIGENT TOUGH CHARMING HONEST
BRIGHT IMPRESSIVE TENDER CLASSY HUMANE
BRAVE INDEPENDENT THOUGHTFUL CAREFREE HEAVENLY
BRAINY INFLUENTIAL TRENDY COMPASSIONATE HELPFUL
BEWITCHING IMPULSIVE TRIUMPHANT COMPETITIVE HUMANITARIAN
BRASH INTERESTING THANKFUL CHARITABLE HEROINE
* * * * *
When I stand up for myself and my beliefs, they call me a bitch. When I stand up for those I love, they call me a bitch. When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts, or do things my own way, they call me a bitch.
Being a bitch entails raising my children to be strong people who have a solid sense of personal and social responsibility, who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in and who love and respect themselves for the beautiful beings they are.
Being a bitch means that I am free to be the wonderful creature I am, with all my own intricacies, contradictions, quirks and beauty.
Being a bitch means I won't compromise what's in my heart. It means I live my life MY way. It means I won't allow anyone to step on me. When I refuse to tolerate injustice and speak up against it, I am defined as a bitch.
The same thing happens when I take time for myself instead of being everyone's maid, or when I act a little selfish.
I am proud to be a bitch! It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I "should" be.
I am outspoken, opinionated, and determined. By God, I want what is right, and I want what I want, and there is nothing wrong with that!
So try to stomp on me, try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won't succeed. And if that makes me a bitch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it.
Bitch can be such a foul, insulting word. I tend to think the opposite. While I hate to use the same word that so many others do I have to admit that I love the ring of it. It's a term of endearment to me. If a women cuts me off in traffic or makes me angry in the workplace you will never hear me call her such a special and meaningful word. It's reserved for only my special women that have earned such a title. Now I know many seem to think that you can not make such a vile word a good thing. Much like the N word that was used to degrade and dehumanize blacks for so long. How can you turn around say that being a bitch is now acceptable? Truthfully, I have no real answer or excuse. I use it with no remorse and only the ladies to whom I direct it to can only truly know just what I mean and how I feel when I call them that. Either you get it or you don't.
A bitch is made up of many different ingredients. She is part women, part lady, part little girl, part slut, part brat, part intellectual, part whore, part energy being, part blonde. She carries herself with an air of class and sophistication and knows how to reveal each one of her many sides only when the right man is able to bring it out of her. She knows how to manipulate her man without being manipulative. She has a sense of naive expectancy that comes across as being demanding without being gold diggish. She knows when to talk and when to be quiet and let her man handle things. Although she might dress with elegance there is always just that one thing she wears or does that makes you raise one eyebrow. Like a grey business suit with fishnets or that stiletto with the ankle straps. Or the eye shadow that's just a wee bit too much but then again your not so sure. A happy bitch can never be mistaken because she floats when she walks with such a strong energy force that will have every man turning around to see who just came in the room. When a bitch is happy she will keep her man motivated and supplied with energy. He will have no need to go to anyone else to supply his needs.
Every women is not a bitch. A bitch is born with the core makings of one but she can not truly realize her true bitch potential without the help of a man. It's kind of like how a women is born with all the eggs she will ever have in her lifetime but if they are not used they are discarded every month. It's the same with the B potential. It's all there from birth but with out the proper fertilization and grooming of a man she will never fully develop that which is truly within her. I pride myself on "pre-grooming" my little girls to be bitches. I call them my lil bitches . . . .of course not to their face so don't call DEFACS on me. They are coming along quite nicely and should one day make a fine wife for the right man (whom their daddy will choose for them of course).
A bitch is true to her man, always there for him and his needs. A bitch will also try her man constantly. Testing him to make sure he can handle her. She will push him, consciously or unconsciously . . . to the point that he will verbally and if necessary physically put her in her place. She wants to emphatically know that she is safe to dwell in her little bitch world and she can float safely knowing that her man will keep her in check.
Behind every successful man is a Bitch. We all saw what Clinton was doing to continue his success. Hilary is not a Bitch. She is a scary man with a vagina. A bitch does not want power, she simply wants to be around power and be the recipient of its results.
It takes a true man to groom and handle a bitch. A bitch can sense a weak punk and will quickly overcome him, use him and move on to the next weak punk. A real man will only have to rule with his voice and his presence and if that is not enough it should only take one instance with him to know that his is not fucking around. A bitch will respect that and won't test him again. I know what I need in my life, A bitch. A regular women can not satisfy me. I need someone to match and complement my personality, someone who instinctively knows exactly how to handle me and knows how she needs to be handled. You would think this would not be so difficult to find but sadly in today's world of video vixen wannabees and ghetto fab queens I often wonder if the art of being a bitch is lost.
|
Added on: 01/06/10 12:49
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
What a busy week--- Long hours of daytime work & escorting at night........Perfect regulars...nice newbies ...
What more can I say, I love what Im doing .. It pays well to be ambitious !
|
Added on: 01/06/10 12:31
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that."
Norman Vincent Peale
Give Up Your Excuses
I grew up not having much, at least that's what I thought when I was young. As I have grown older I have come to the understanding that, I really had everything I needed. I had a loving mother and father, both who made mistakes, due to their age. They were both very young when they had me. Although they made mistakes, I can honestly say I forgive them. I thought at one point I could never forgive them. It's taken me many years to actually say that, and mean it when I say it now. You must change your view of a negative past, in order to prepare for a successful future.
One of the first steps to undertake in the arena of self improvement is to first forgive all your past pains and experiences. You must confront your past and take full responsibility for yourself and your future. Life is too short. So give up all your past regrets and start living for today, you have to stop dwelling on the past. Each and every painful experience or regret in your past, has something to offer you. It's just a matter of changing your view point. If you dig deep enough you can find something positive out of every single circumstance.
The key is to forgive the past, focus on what you learned, and simply move on. When you look at what pains you in your past think about what you learned from that experience. Did it change your way of thinking? Dig deeper! Did it help make you happier in some way or another? Our past experiences make us who we are. Are you happy with the person you are today? Your past experiences helped make that person. You could have suffered the worst catastrophic event possible, but as long in one way or another you learned or grew because of that event, you became a better person, which in retrospect is a positive result.
If you look at each and every past experience in a positive light you will lead a happy and successful life. You will constantly see everything that happens to you as a chance to learn and grow. Your past creates you and is now allowing you to create your future. Embrace the past, and embrace each experience. You only have room to grow.
You are what you believe you are. If you look at your past with regrets and unhappy feelings you will lead a regretful and unhappy life. Forgive the past, and change your angle of view. When you do this each and every day, you will find that every situation in your life taught you something. Your subconscious remembers everything. All that matters is whether or not you decide to view your past as positive or negative. Be happy, because without the past there would be no future.
|
Added on: 01/06/10 12:12
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
Human trafficking has become the third largest international criminal activity after arms smuggling and drug trafficking. According to the American State Department approximately 800,000 people are trafficked across national borders every year. This excludes trafficking within countries.
80 percent of these victims are women and girls and as many as 50 percent are children. The majority of female victims are trafficked for the purposes of sexual exploitation. That is why there is such a strong link between prostitution and trafficking. Christians through the ages, such as The Salvation Army, have reached out to prostitutes.
About four years ago Doctors for Life (DFL) started an outreach centre to prostitutes in Durban called Lifeplace. There has been fruit from this work and many people have been helped. As a result of the work at Lifeplace the European Union Commission asked DFL to help them with information on human trafficking in South Africa. They in turn told the National Prosecuting Authority about them and they were invited to participate in a conference on human trafficking in June 2008.
Prostitution can be defined as the exchange of sexual acts for reward. In South Africa certain acts associated with prostitution such as brothel keeping and pimping have been criminal offences under the Sexual Offences Act of 1957. Pimping is acting as an agent for a prostitute. Prostitution itself was only criminalized by a law passed in 1988. In 2002 a group of prostitutes and a pimp challenged the criminalization of prostitution in the constitutional court. DFL made a submission to the constitutional Court on behalf of the State. The submission contained expert evidence by a number of international experts opposed to prostitution. The Constitutional Court upheld the laws criminalizing prostitution.
Generally speaking nobody else really said anything more about changing the laws that criminalize prostitution. That was until early last year when former National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi suggested that prostitution be legalized for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. A survey done directly after his comments showed that 79% of all South Africans are opposed to legalised prostitution.
At the beginning of this year parliamentarian George Lekgheto said that prostitution should be legalized for 2010. He eventually apologized because some of his comments were insulting to women. Recently the Durban municipality said that they want to create so called red light areas to centralize the legal sex industry such as strip clubs and escort agencies for 2010.
DFL is opposed to the legal sex industry and regards it as a front for prostitution and trafficking. The municipality also said that they want to legalize prostitution in these areas even though prostitution is a criminal act. They acknowledged that this would require parliament to change the laws on prostitution.
DFL is not aware of any discussions happening in parliament about prostitution yet. But the World Cup gives these proposals a sense of urgency, and opens up the discussion on prostitution, which is exactly what they are intended to do.
There are four main ways that prostitution is dealt with by governments:
1. Criminalization is the position held by DFL and should be the position of all Christians. It sends a clear message to the public that prostitution is unacceptable under any circumstances and will not be tolerated. At the same time we should show compassion towards the prostitute. There are reasons why people end up in prostitution, often very sad ones, such as childhood physical and sexual abuse, broken homes and addictions.
2. Partial Criminalization is where the buyer of the services of a prostitute is guilty of a crime but the prostitute is not. This model is based on the principle that the prostitute is a victim. The prostitute can just keep on re-offending. This is an unhealthy situation.
3. Decriminalization removes all laws on prostitution. It sends out a message that prostitution is a normal and acceptable way of earning a living. It also creates a situation where pimps and traffickers can operate freely. This is a bad situation.
4. Legalization basically means that the state regulates prostitution and becomes the pimp, hiring out its most vulnerable citizens for profit. It is absolutely unacceptable.
If prostitution is legalized or decriminalized it will require an act of parliament. If this happens it’s almost impossible that it will be reversed in the future. 2010 could be used as an excuse to change the prostitution laws in SA for keeps. The legalization or decriminalization of prostitution in South Africa would be an open door for pimps and traffickers to ply their evil trade. South Africa has an official unemployment rate of 37%. The temptation of earning dollars and euros will corrupt the moral fiber of the youth.
Prostitution and pimping is glamorized in popular culture and music videos. We can expect the youth to be harmed. Thousands of daughters and sons will be lured to the cities with promises of employment only to end up trafficked into prostitution.
We suggest that a slogan be developed as a national tool opposing trafficking and prostitution. Something like, “Protect Our Children Against 2010”. One day workshops to raise awareness and pass on information, is another possibility.
If you hear or see anything in the media that sounds as if the discussion on prostitution has moved to provincial or national parliament level, contact Doctors for Life. The constitution stipulates that before parliament can strike down or pass any laws that there has to be public participation. When one considers the procedures that need to be followed to strike down or pass new laws, it will be difficult to do before 2010. But it is possible that it could be pushed through at the last minute. So we must be ready for action.
For a News Article on trafficking in South Africa see: PE cop cracks human trafficking syndicate (PE Herald).
How to help people avoid trafficking and prostitution
Prevention is better and far less painful than cure.
1. Warn your community about the dangers of trafficking and prostitution.
2. Warn the youth, especially girls and women about the dangers of accepting job offers, especially from newspaper adverts. Job offers must be properly checked out.
3. They should never hand over their ID documents or passports to anybody except an authorized official and even then, only for a very good reason.
4. Be aware of new faces in your area, especially if they are hanging around where young people, especially girls, get together. The presence of a woman with them doesn’t automatically signal safety. Traffickers use women to recruit girls and other women.
4. They should not accept gifts from anybody that they don’t know well.
5. They should never accept lifts from strangers.
6. They should never accept drugs or alcohol.
7. Traffickers often look for victims among those who are rebellious and prepared to try something new or different. Lonely and desperate people are also their main targets. They will often befriend and get to know them in order to deceive them.
8. Tell them that it could easily happen to them. They could become the next victim of human trafficking and prostitution. These victims suffer the most terrible violence and sexual abuse. It really is sexual slavery.
|
Added on: 01/06/10 12:08
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
"She take my money, when I'm in need/Yeah she's a triflin' friend indeed/Oh, she's a gold digger, way over town/That digs on me"
--Kanye West, "Gold Digger"
You may have heard the term being thrown around, especially with Kanye West's hit song, but what exactly IS a gold digger? The label usually refers to someone who associates with rich people, hoping to gain access to their money. The stereotypical gold digger is a woman who marries for money--not for love--so that she becomes rich from her husband's wealth. Whether searching for financial support for her children, expensive things, or a rich and famous lifestyle, these gold diggers want access to a lot of money without having to earn it themselves.
The term comes from the California Gold Rush in the 1890s when the miners became known as "gold diggers." These gold diggers flocked to California with hopes and dreams of striking gold and becoming rich overnight. Just like modern "gold diggers," their biggest concern was money--how to get it fast and in large quantities.
Today, one typical characteristic of a gold digger is a huge age gap between the two people in a relationship. Large age gaps usually involve an older man with a younger woman (if it's vice versa, the man can still be known as a gold digger, and the woman might be known as his "sugar momma"). The theory is that the younger woman hopes to work her way into the will of the aging partner, so that when he dies she will have full access to his wealth. It is fairly uncommon to hear of male gold diggers, though there are probably many men playing the same game.
The term "gold digger" isn't very complimentary and women who are labeled as such can be viewed by society as greedy, selfish, dumb or insensitive. Sometimes women who are involved with older men are unfairly labeled gold diggers, simply because society has certain beliefs on what makes up a healthy relationship. These beliefs include the expectation that the couple is similar in age, class and even looks (i.e. someone who is not considered too pretty or out of their partner's "league").
There are also other terms associated with gold diggers, such as "sugar daddy" and "trophy wife." A "sugar daddy" refers to a rich man who may attract younger women using his money, showering them with expensive gifts and lavish lifestyles. A "trophy wife" is a stereotypically beautiful and dumb woman who looks impressive on the arm of an older man. It is often thought that many trophy wives are gold diggers.
|
Added on: 01/06/10 11:58
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
If you've ever watched the 1997 movie Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, chances are you might have gotten a good laugh at the line above. After all, it does contain one of the more vulgar words in the English language: pussy; which is slang for vagina. But where did the term pussy come from? How was it originally used? And how do we use it today?
The term pussy originated a long time ago and was used in reference (still is) to a cat. However, the German term "puse," which means vulva or the Old Norse term "puss," which means pocket or pouch are also closely related to the word pussy. Over time, this word took on a feminine connotation. For example, Philip Stubbes wrote in his 1583 book The Anatomie of Abuses, "The word pussie is now used of a woman."
Pussy also means a "soft, warm, furry thing," and it was not long before it became a term of endearment towards women. In the novel Uncle Tom's Cabin written in 1852 by Harriet Beecher Stowe, one of the male characters says to his daughter, "What do you think, pussy?"
Around the late 19th century, pussy began to take on its current sexual meaning. There was a famous vaudeville act preformed by the Barrison Sisters called "Would you like to see my pussy?" During this act, the sisters would rile up the audience with this simple question, only to lift up their skirts at the end to reveal a live kitten sewn into their underwear, with a hole created for the head of the kitten to look out. It was considered very risque and played on the double meaning of the word "pussy."
Since that time, other people have used the term for sexual innuendo, like the Bond character Pussy Galore and the pop-singing group (and burlesque act) The Pussycat Dolls. In addition, there are people who just like to use "pussy" as another word for vagina, like Jay-Z sings in the song "Pussy:"
"I know this girl we call her sweet cooch brownhttp://www.sexyescortpersonals.com/Hands down mami had the bombest pussy in town."
The term is also used to refer to a coward. For example, someone might say (usually to a male), "Don't be such a pussy." This particular meaning is believed to have evolved from the old English word "pursy," which meant "fat and short-breathed; fat, short, and thick; swelled with pampering." It wasn't long before people connected effeminate men to this term due to its direct relation to a woman's body part.
Similar slang terms include: cunt, twat, poonani and coochie.
|
Added on: 01/06/10 11:56
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
BE RESPONSIBLE, KNOW YOUR RISKS, GET TESTED FOR HIV --- DOH
Press Release / 11 December 2009
Give your loved ones the best gift this holiday season: faithfulness and willpower to turn away from risky and harmful vices and behaviors.
The 2009 Integrated HIV Behavioral and Serological Surveillance (IHBSS) revealed today that the number of Filipinos afflicted with HIV/AIDS especially among high risk populations is steadily growing. Further, the Department of Health (DOH) said that the risk for HIV/AIDS will continue if advocacy efforts to avert the increase of this disease will not be intensified. Latest data said that most of the cases were due to unprotected sex and injecting drug use of persons who may have harmed others unknowingly.
“The threat is real. An individual is like a walking time bomb that may explode and spread the virus to others, cause deaths especially if he or she doesn’t know his or her HIV status while engaging in high risk behaviors.” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said.
The health chief said that although the number of new HIV infections has dropped by 17% globally since 2001, the number of new cases here in the country has increased by 334%.
The 2009 IHBSS report disclosed that the overall prevalence of cases in the most at risk populations (MARPs) is 530 per 100,000 population. It also revealed the following figures: men having sex with men – 1,050/100,000; freelance female sex workers – 540/100,000; registered female sex workers – 230/100,000; and injecting drug users – 210/100,000.
“These figures are far high compared to the numbers that the 2007 IHBSS has yielded,” Duque said.
The 2007 IHBSS reported the following figures: overall prevalence in MARPs– 99 per 100,000 population; men having sex with men – 280/100,000; freelance female sex workers – 44/100,000; registered female sex workers – 68/100,000; and injecting drug users – 130/100,000.
“The number of infected persons in the Philippines is growing and the infection is spreading fast in most-at-risk populations such as freelance female sex workers, men having sex with men, and injecting drug users, among others. We have to stop the spread and gain control of the situation,” Duque said.
“Although HIV and AIDS do not discriminate and anyone can get infected including unborn babies, we have groups that are more at risk than others because of behaviors that include unprotected vaginal and anal sex, multiple sex partners and re-use of needles and syringes while injecting drugs, to name some,” Duque said.
The Secretary said that to prevent the spread of the virus, the DOH is determined to boost its information drive and strengthen its prevention program and services against HIV/AIDS.
“But the efforts of DOH alone are not enough. The DOH will need the help of other sectors, other agencies of government, the LGUs, civic society and individuals and communities. All of us have a responsibility and role in stopping this disease,” Duque said.
The Philippine HIV/AIDS Registry reported that for October 2009, 80 new HIV cases have been confirmed by the STD/AIDS Cooperative Central Laboratory. This was a 36% increase compared to the same period last year (59 in 2008). This brought the total of cases for 2009 to 626. Four (4) of these new cases were reported as AIDS. There was no death reported for the month of October.
The cumulative number of HIV cases from 1984 to October this year is 4,218, of which 828 have become AIDS. Of the 828 cases, 314 have already died. The most common mode of transmission was sexual contact (3,798 out of 4,218), while the least common was through mother-to-child transmission (49/4,218).
NOTE: For further inquiries on the 2009 IHBSS data, please call Dr. Eric Tayag at 09178554257; for prevention program and services, please call Dr. Gerard Belimac at 09159402115.
|
Added on: 01/05/10 13:34
Comments (0)
|
|
|
|
To: Jove Ryan S. Carigaba ( Hell saint/ deathcry)
Creating an account at this site , is a clear indication that you betrayed my trust...You dont have to revenge back just because your hurt that Im whoring myself..
|
Added on: 01/05/10 12:06
Comments (3)
|
|
|
|
Our step-by-step money diet will fatten your wallet.
In some ways, a budget is like a diet. You may hate sticking to it, but you feel great after you do. Unlike a diet, however, a budget doesn't have to leave you hungry. In fact, with the right moves, you can improve your household finances and still splurge on a few goodies here and there.
If your spending is out of control-or even if you're comfortable but you feel insecure about your job and the economic outlook-January is a good time to scrutinize your finances. Odds are, you'll be able to save more than you thought.
To make your budget work, keep it simple: Stay on task and take one step at a time. And don't think of it as a straitjacket that takes the fun out of life. Rather, consider it a way to control your small expenses now so that you can buy big-ticket items (and reach your goals) in the future.
1. Track your spending.
It's the only way to get a handle on how much money flies out of your wallet. Ideally, you need to keep tabs for at least a month, and charting your expenses for three to six months will let you capture bills that don't come up each month, such as car insurance, doctor visits and household repairs. But even monitoring spending for a couple of weeks is a start, and it needn't be painful. Simply eyeballing credit-card and bank statements is a beginning.
But you also need to know where the cash goes. The old-fashioned approach of putting pen to paper works just fine, but you also have plenty of high-tech options: a personalized Excel spreadsheet, the free budget worksheet at Kiplinger.com, and online budgeting sites such as Wesabe.com and Mint.com. (You'll need to provide user names and passwords for your online accounts to enable your transactions to be downloaded, but the sites are privacy-protected.) You could also use Quicken ( http://quicken.intuit.com ; free online or $60 for the Deluxe software version) or YNAB, which stands for You Need a Budget ( http://www.youneedabudget.com/ ; $50 for the software).
No matter which method you choose, don't overlook your smaller purchases. Those tall lattes at Starbucks can really add up.
Christine Owens, a 45-year-old single mother of four, started using the online-budgeting site Mint.com because she wanted to rein in her spending. As a result, Owens, a Southern California real estate agent, has cut her expenses by more than $1,000 a month and says she hasn't suffered at all. Owens saved $600 a month on groceries by planning her meals and buying food at discount stores. She lopped off $350 a month by consolidating her family's cell-phone accounts and cutting out her land line. She even saved by switching to a slower Internet service. Their spending excess "was a rude awakening for me and the kids," she says. "We ignored all the little stuff, but it was the little stuff that added up."
2. Look for leaks.
Start with variable expenses. If you're spending too much on eating out at restaurants, cut out one restaurant meal a week. Or grab a takeout meal instead of table service, or pack your lunch. That could save you more than $100 a month. Perhaps, like Owens, you have multiple cell-phone plans that can be streamlined. Or maybe you've had the same cable plan for a while. Competition in the cable industry has picked up, so it's a good time to ask for a deal or switch to another provider altogether (for more savings tips, go to Feedthepig.org, sponsored by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants). "The time to cut expenses is before the crisis," says Sharon Rich, founder of Womoney, a financial-planning firm in Belmont, Mass.
As you get your finances in order, use your newfound savings to pay down debt, starting with balances that carry the highest interest rate (clearing the books by paying off smaller balances works, too). If you've had the same credit card for a while and want to see if you can snag a better deal, check a credit-card comparison site, such as LowCards.com, BillShrink.com or CreditCards.com. Credit unions and community banks tend to offer friendlier terms than the big national banks. Need outside help managing your payments? See a credit counselor recommended by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling ( http://www.nfcc.org/ ).
3. Set goals.
Once you have a handle on where you're leaking money, you can set priorities and savings goals and reroute your cash (for standard guidelines, see the box below). Ideally, you'll adhere to the golden rule of budgeting: Pay yourself first. But you also need to avoid borrowing back the money you save to meet expenses.
The more targeted your goals, the more likely you are to achieve them. Put away money specifically for retirement, college or a house-or maybe squirrel away cash to renovate your kitchen. As a Mint user, you can let the program set up your budget by tracking what you actually spend, or you can manually create budgets for categories such as groceries and eating out. A new tool on Mint called "projected savings" can help you see how long it will take to reach your goals. The tool allows you to visualize how tightening your budget a notch will make your savings grow over the next month, quarter or year. One thing you should always do when setting up a budget is put aside money for an emergency. Even when the economy's firing on all cylinders, you need "just in case" money for an unexpected medical expense, furnace failure or fender bender.
4. Be flexible.
As you start to follow your budget, be sure to give yourself some wiggle room. Budgets are meant to be flexible. If you restrict yourself too much, you may get so frustrated that you splurge on a big impulse buy-the dieter's equivalent of cheating with a banana split. Jean Keener, a financial planner in Keller, Tex., notes that most people can afford to have one area that qualifies as a luxury, such as a nice home. Indulge in too many luxuries, however, and you'll burn through too much money.
The good news is that most people overspend in just two or three areas. Suzannah Garrison, a 42-year-old single mom, started using Mint.com after her investments lost 40% in the bear market. Once Garrison analyzed her outlays, she was surprised to find that she was spending much more than she realized on household items-including home-cleaning services, repairs and furniture-as well as on eating out and on her dogs. Garrison cut back what she spends on her home-from $2,500 a month to less than $1,000. She also reduced her dining-out budget by a third, to $400 a month. When she travels, she now has her mother watch the pooches, which saves the $33-a-night expense of boarding them.
Along the way, Garrison has learned a vital lesson: One big expense doesn't have to throw you off. When she spent $1,400 on a moped for her 15-year-old son, she cut back on everything else that month so she could stay on track. "Now that I have a handle on my expenses, I'm kind of obsessive about it," says Garrison, who lives in Fayetteville, Ark. "It's empowering."
Now that we think of it, maybe you shouldn't think of a budget as a diet after all. It's more like exercise. Any pain you feel will only make you stronger.
|
Added on: 01/05/10 11:57
Comments (0)
|
|
Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
>
>>
>>>
|
|
|
|
|
