For the longest time, I must sadly admit, I treated my AARP Magazine as junk mail.  Because of what I have discovered I want to ask you a simple question – “Did you know that the AARP Magazine can save you money?”  I realize, of course, that you may not be old enough to be involved with AARP, but when you reach the age of 49 (the age I joined) I would suggest that you join.

In the September/October 2010 issue there is a great section on 16 ways that AARP saves you money.  I would like to list these here just in case you missed this article.

1. Many of us have been coupon clippers for many years.  It surely is a great feeling to check out at the store and find you have saved, in some cases, more than you have spent.  And this happened just because you took the time to clip coupons.  With the economy the way it is today, you cannot afford not to clip coupons.  The AARP Grocery Coupon center offers coupons for more than just groceries.  You can check these out at http://grocerycouponcenter.com.
2. If you are like me, I am always looking for discounts at the national chain stores.  These include Target, Sears, Kmart, and many others.  The Everyday Savings Center is powered by Next Jump.  You can find discounts on things from books, electronics, furniture and much more.  For more information on this service check out http://everydaysavingscenter.com/deals.
3. Nowadays, it is a blessing when we can find tips on low-cost home improvements, including no-cost ways to improve our energy usage. How many times do we find ourselves postponing a home improvement project because it is too expensive? AARP Magazine suggests checking out http://aarp.org/homeupdates.
4. Often we forfeit going out to eat as it just does not fit in our budget.  Denny’s offers a 20 percent savings off your check every day between the hours of 4 PM and 10 PM just by your showing your AARP card. (please note that this offer cannot be used with other promotional offers and this is valid only at participating Denny restaurants).  You can also get coffee for yourself and your guests for $1.00.  You can call your local Denny’s to check this out at 800-733-6697 or go to their website at http://dennys.com.
5. I am most definitely going to be checking this “way to save” out myself.  I did not participate in driver’s education when I was in high school but now AARP is offering the first and largest driver refresher course in the classroom and online.  This will be at a discounted rate for AARP members.  I have a spotless driving record but this could save me money.  Check out the regulations in your state.  Taking this course could very well save you money on your insurance premiums.  For further information you can call 888-227-7669 or go to http://aarp.org/drive.
6. Who does not like to travel?  As our purse strings seem to be getting tighter it is more and more difficult to take those vacations we would like to.  The AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia can help you with your domestic and international vacation packages, cruises, flights, hotels and rental cars.  You can be eligible for discounts from most AARP Travel hotel and car providers, as well as receiving extra onboard credits on select cruises.  In addition you will not be charged air or cruise booking fees.  Check out 800-675-4318 or http://expedia-aarp.com for more information.
7. And while you are on your way to the airport, perhaps you will need airport parking.  You can save 10 percent at more than 130 off-site discount airport parking facilities operated by Park Ride Fly USA nationwide.  They offer complimentary services that include curb-to-curb shuttle service to and from the airport, valet and/or self-parking and luggage assistance (this is an enormous help for sure).  Call 877-503-7275 or log onto http://parkrideflyusa.com/aarp for more information.
8. I do not know about you, but car and home insurance payments can take a big chunk out of your budget.  If you insure your home and auto with the AARP Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program you can receive up to a ten percent discount on your homeowners-insurance rates and an additional fifteen  percent on your auto insurance.  Go to http://aarp.the.hartford.com/msb, or call 800-689-9089, code 440160 for specific information.
9. If you are looking for ways to save on your cell phone plan, you can receive a free phone from Consumer Cellular when you sign up for a new service.   With this program you will receive 5 percent off your monthly service and 30 percent off selected accessories.  You will not have to sign up for a long term contract.  Call 888-437-9226 or go to http://consumercellular.com/aarp.
10. Who is not trying to become more physically fit?  Visit AARP’s online fitness center for exercise news and motivational tips.  You can join an online group, Fat2Fit, and be part of a group that has helped almost 4,000 people lose weight over the past year.  If you would like more information on this program check out http://aarp.org/fit.
11. Most people at this age are looking for ways to save money on eyewear.  AARP has a program that can help you save on bifocals, trifocals, lens options and frames.  You can realize these savings at LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, Sears Optical, Target Optical, JC Penney Optical and also at many private practitioners.  These savings are offered through EyeMed Vision Care and for more information you can go to http://aarphealthcare.com or call 888-352-3924.  These savings cannot be combined without other discounts.
12. Health insurance is very expense and there are many people who cannot afford a health plan.  This means that screening tests are not being performed.  You can receive six free health tests for such things as bone density and cholesterol, through the AARP/Walgreens Wellness Tour.  This program is visiting cities nationwide and in Puerto Rico through February 2011.  Call 866-484-8687 or go http://aarpwalghreens.com/tour.  By logging onto the website you can see where the tour will be going.
13. Medications are another expense that many people are having difficulty affording.  Check out AARP’s Doughnut Hole Calculator to find less expensive generic drugs.  Those who have fallen to Medicare Part D’s “Doughnuthole” will receive a $250.00 rebate check from Medicare automatically this year.  Check out http://aarp.org/doughnuthole for further information.
14. (Also remember that if you are having difficulty affording your medications you can contact your drug’s manufacturer and check on their assistance program.  Many pharmaceutical companies, depending on your income, will supply your medications free of charge. You will have to request the required forms and get your doctor’s approval and prescription request.  This was not in the AARP Magazine, but I speak from previous experience!)
15. Just because we have retired it does not mean that we still do not want to be active in the work force.  We still have a lot of value to offer to the corporate world.  If you are seeking no-cost job-search assistance or career counseling so you can maintain a marketable profile, AARP offers free advice and resources including career fairs and access to employers that are seeking workers 50 and older.  If you require this type of service, check out http://aarp.org/work.
16. If you have retired AARP offers free webinars with tips on how to better stretch your money and helps you with information on ways you can make ends meet.  If you have not retired but are thinking about it, AARP can help you figure out how much you should be saving for retirement.  Go to http://aarp.org/moneywebinars.
17. Last, but definitely not least, AARP is always looking out for your interests in the halls of Congress and in all 50 statehouses.

AARP has fought to provide $250 in relief to Social Security recipients whose benefits were frozen this year.

AARP strives to protect and strengthen Social Security not only for you, but for generations to come.

Did you know that AARP saves consumers billions of dollars in home-energy costs by defending us against unfair rate hikes utility companies?

This is only a very small portion of the plethora of information that is included in the AARP Magazine.  There is so much value in this magazine, including health, money, motivational articles, etc. this was just the tip of the iceberg.  This is by no means “junk mail”, and do not throw it away before reading it from cover to cover.

I hope that this information is helpful to you.  Please share this information with others so they will  know that the AARP Magazine can save them money and how the AARP Organization is working to help us.  This is so very important, especially during the economical conditions of our country.

Happy Savings!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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Do you realize that there is immense power in prayer? Just thought I’d share this and encourage everyone to pray for our country and military. We CAN make a huge difference, calling on God.

Most recently, (this morning) my son-in-law saw the power of prayer at work first-hand. He believes but it was an awesome experience nonetheless!

They own a 1993 Toyota Corolla. It is a dear old car. A few weeks ago the engine light came on. It is not a car that they want to have to sink a lot of money into.  This is the time of year when they needed to get their emissions test done. (They also own a fairly new Toyota Forerunner. The Corolla is just a spare car.) It was greatly feared that with the engine light on this car would not pass the required emissions test to renew the registration necessitating a large repair bill.

This morning my son-in-law noticed that as he drove past the garage where he was going to have the emissions done that there was no one in line. He looked down, and yes you guessed it …. The engine light was off! He went in, had the test done and the car passed. We had been praying for a miracle and our prayers were answered.

Another experience I would like to share is … I have a very dear friend who lives in Florida that suffers from severe migraines to the point where she throws up. Many years ago she called me around 1 AM to drive her to the ER to get a shot. We were sitting there and she was in tears holding her head saying, “I do not think they will see me as I owe the hospital money.” So we just sat there and prayed that they would take care of her and get rid of the pain. She was called up to the desk, and as she stepped up to give the woman her information, the computer system went down and she was unable to look up my friend’s records. Our prayers were answered she got a shot. I took her home where she could rest as her migraine subsided. We were truly grateful for this answered prayer.

Having been a single mom raising two daughters I can tell you that I went through many financially distraught times and God was always being summoned. Sort of like, “I am sorry Lord, it is me again, I need your help.” He never let me down.  I have seen God’s hand in my life many, many times. God does not care how big or how small your problem is.  He just cares that you have a problem!

With our country in the shape that it is in, it is a good time for us to remember 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Now is the time to put our faith in God wherein “all things are possible.”

Thanks for calling on the Power of Prayer!

Judy Conway
Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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My daughter shared this eye-opening video on Continuous Chest Compress CPR,with me today. I instantly felt led to get this information out to as many people as I can, and for that reason I am posting it on my blog. I hope that you will take the time to not only read this blog, but also watch the video above. By your knowing this information, you might just have the opportunity to save someone’s life.

I was amazed to learn that more Americans die from sudden cardiac arrest in three days than died in the 9-1-1 attacks. I hope that you will feel compelled to learn the Continuous Chest Compression CPR procedure. By using this method you can double a person’s change of surviving cardiac arrest.

If you have not been comfortable with the thought of mouth-to-mouth contact you will want to learn Continuous Chest Compression CPR. This is a hands-only method. This was developed at the University of Arizona College of Medicine by research pioneers, including Gordon A. Ewy, MD, in hopes of making the odds greater that a bystander will step up to the pate and help someone suffering from cardiac arrest.

Sarver Heart Center’s video (shown above) was developed to give people easy-to-learn instructions for performing Continuous Chest Compression CPR. If you forget the name of my blog site, please just direct people to YouTube when it is also posted.

Truly, this six-minute video can mean the difference of life or death to a person in cardiac arrest. For every one minute that goes by without a person receiving help there is a 10% less chance of survival.

Below are written directions for performing Continuous Chest Compression CPR.

If you see someone collapse who isn’t responsive and has trouble breathing:

1. Tell someone to call 911 or make the call yourself.
2. Position the person with the back on the floor. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (between the nipples) and the heel of the other hand on top of the first. Lock your elbows, position your shoulders over your hands and use your upper-body weight to “fall” downward. Lift your hands slightly each time to allow the chest wall to recoil. Try to compress at 100 beats per minute and about 2 inches deep until emergency help arrives.

Note: Mouth-to-mouth CPR still is recommended for drowning and very small children.

Here is the YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcbgpiKyUbs.

Please take the time to pass this information about Continuous Chest Compress CPR along to your friends and family. Unlike some of the funny emails we all receive (and enjoy) this can save a person’s life!

Thanks for caring and sharing!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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The cost of a college education continues to rise. According to Salliemae/Gallup the cost of $15,931 in 2009 has increased to $18,659 in 2010. Below I will share information to assist you with college education financial assistance. Please check out the video above. This information was aired on the Today Show on August 9, 2010.

Scholarship Searches:

Although your searches should normally be done after the first of January, there are still some funds available for college students this year.

Never pay for scholarship searches. Go to http://www.Salliemae.com or http://www.fastweb.com to get scholarship information.

Free Application for Student Assistance:

Most individuals are thinking about attending college, but research shows that only one out of four families have applied for this form. This form is found at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. When you log onto this site you will see three boxes:

• #1 Before Beginning a FAFSA
• #2 Filling out a FAFSA
• #3 FASA follow-up.

These are all self-explanatory.

It is recommended that if you require financial assistance that you always search out Federal funds first as their interest rages are better and they have better payment programs.

529 Savings Plan:

Parents should check out the 529 Savings Plan early on. Lately, there has been a lot of discussion regarding this program.
In making allocations to this program, as your child is in their teens nearing their college years you will want to allocate 15%, or less, in stocks. Put your contributions into money markets or CD’s only. You can put all of your allocation into these areas if you want.

For information on this program go to http://www.savingforcollege.com. Check out the various items in the “Quick Menu” area on the left-hand side of the page. Start with the “College Savings 101” for a complete understanding of this program.

Other family members can contribute to this program. This plan allows you tax advantages and there is no income limitations. Many people neglect to include this $2,500 tax credit on their income tax forms. This credit is allowed for tuition, books, fees and supplies.

Save Money on Textbooks:

You can save hundreds of dollars on textbooks by renting books or buying used, or older editions of textbooks. You can buy or rent online at:

• Bookrenter.com
• Chegg.com
• Textbooks.com
• Barnesandnoble.com

Also, be sure to check out Amazon’s Textbook Buyback program. Log onto Amazon.com, open an account and check out their textbook buyback department. Enter the name of your textbook to find out how much Amazon will pay you. They will put this money on your account.

Sign up for Amazon’s Student program. This will allow you to unlimited two-day free shipping on textbooks and other items. There is no minimum size order required. With the Student Program you will receive Amazon Prime (a $79 value) free for one year. This program is for students only.

You will save hundreds of dollar buying older editions of textbooks. Be sure to check with your professors first to be certain that these older editions are acceptable.

I hope that the information on College Education Financial Assistance I have included here will be helpful to you.

I wish you much success!

Judy Conway
Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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“Do you think you need a lawn service” might very well be a question you have asked yourself many times.  Two weeks ago this very same question crossed my mind.

As is my routine, I put on my heavy duty sneakers, wrapped my bad knee with an Ace bandage and began one of my least favorite chores … mowing my lawn.  I only have a third of an acre so it is no big deal.  I am a very independent 64-year old grandmother who enjoys doing things herself.  I really do not like to burden others with my responsibilities.  Keeping my yard looking cared for is one of those responsibilities.

I put gas in the mower, gave a yank on the cord and I was off.  The front yard and one side is a breeze to do.  However the other side yard has a challenging slope.  I have discovered that the best way to cut this side is going front to back, and back and forth.  However, this time I was at the top and noticed that I had missed a spot.  Not thinking I turned the mower down the slope and went after the uncut spot.  It was a matter of seconds when I realized the mower was picking up speed and had a mind of its own heading down the slope.  I tightened my grip and hung on.

I am not quite sure what happened at the bottom but it was not long and I discovered I had fallen and the lawnmower had flipped over.  I had visions of being chopped up and my sole goal was to hang onto the handle on the mower to keep it pushed away from my body.

I lay there for a few seconds and had the crazy thought, “I hope no one saw me do this.”  I managed to get back up on my feet and turn the mower back over.  By this time the oil in the mower was dripping on the motor and I was engulfed in thick white billowing smoke.  So thick in fact that it filled the space between my neighbor’s house and mine and I could not even see the street in front of my house.  I was dreading the arrival of the fire department!  After the mower was right side up, the smoke situation cleared up and I took my wounded pride and body back up the hill and finished the flat part at the top.

After all was said and done, I realized that I had sprained my shoulder when I fell on the ground and possibly bruised my ribs.  It was a full week before I could take a deep breath and even get out of bed without being in excruciating pain.  I am extremely thankful that it was not worse.

I would like to pass along a tip that I practice myself.  When you are outside doing yard work, cleaning your gutters, etc. be sure you have your cell phone in your pocket.  You never know when you might need to call for help!

Just like the statement you have to get back on the horse when you fall off, I am still going to be mowing my lawn.  The experience did find me asking myself the question, “Do you think you need a lawn service!” So as you are out there doing your yard work….be careful!

Judy Conway

Email:judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://beadazzledjewelrycreations.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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This has been my summer to learn how to conquer yard work.  It has never seemed as difficult as it has been this year …. And I still have two months or more to go!!

I started early and decided it was time to trim my hedges.  The plant is known as Variegated Chinese Privet  or Ligustrum sinensis ‘Variegata’.  In just reading about it to be sure I spelled this information correctly it was noted as a fast grower, growing 4-6 feet tall and equal in width.

In the Beginning!

I would like to add my two cents on this statement. The hedges that I trimmed were at least 12 to 15 feet above my fence!  I trimmed these back to below the fence line and they have already reached a substantial 3 feet above the fence!  I have more of these lovelies (do not get me wrong, they are beautiful bushes/trees) in another area of my front yard and they have grown past my second floor bedroom window.  I think it is fair to say they grow much higher than 6 feet.

This pivet would be a welcomed addition to any yard.  It is especially great as it grows in full or partial sun.  However, if you choose this hedge, be sure you own a very aggressive hedge trimmer or you have a good tree saw (or a landscape service)!

As my “hedge” had grown to a height of about 15 feet I chose to tackle the project with my trusty tree saw.  These hedges grow many limbs from each plant.  You will want to keep them trimmed back as they tend to get bare on the bottom if you do not.

I have 18 of these hedges along the fence in my backyard, each with approximately 6 offshoots.  I hope this gives you the picture of a totally overwhelming project for a 64 year old retired, single grandma!  Needless to say, I have never met a task that I was not willing to tackle and this was not going to be the first time.

I did start out with the hedge trimmer, but soon discovered this was too big of a job for that.  So I resorted to my tree saw and worked on cutting each limb.  Now my job was complicated somewhat as I live in Georgia and we are overtaken in the summer by a plant called kudzu.  It has a way of winding its way into your yard and throughout your trees and bushes.  You really have to keep an eye out for it.  I was just reading that kudzu came over from Japan and now covers over 7 million acres of the southeastern United States.   I am blessed with a lot of aggressive plants.

Kudzu Covered House

As I would cut down a limb I would pull it down and put it in a pile.  In some cases the growth was entangled with other branches and this was no easy job.  And then when you throw kudzu into the mix of things it got really hard!  One time I had cut the limb at the bottom and was trying hard to pull it down and the kudsu had tightly wound itself throughout the top of the branch.  I backed up and pulled with all my might and after a few moments it loosened, and then loosened some more and before I knew it I was traveling at a pretty quick pace backwards in my yard.  I hung on for dear life and had visions of what lay behind me.  I was either going to fall just short of my concrete patio, or land in the blackberry bushes around my bird feeders.  With a loud oomph I landed flat on my back just short of the patio.

This is where I must tell you, that if you are going to do these tasks, you have to approach them with a sense of humor.  I laid there flat on my back laughing.  Thankfully my yard is quite private and no one had caught sight of my antics.  Laughter truly is the best medicine.

Another word of advice I would like to offer is make sure you have your cell phone in your pocket.  You never know when you might need to call for help.  I learned that lesson one year as I was on a ladder cleaning out my gutters and the ladder decided to fall to the ground.  My life crossed before my eyes as I fell to a standing position with the ladder sort of wrapped around my legs.  Other than an increased heart rate and scrapes and bruises I was okay.  But the thought crossed my mind that if I had fallen on the ground and been unable to get up no one would have known I was there.  My family was out of town and would be gone for days.  Hence, my advice about carrying your cell phone at all times.

The hedges got trimmed and they have grown back beautifully filling in on the bottom.  No matter how hard I try to keep these under control, it seems to be a full time job.  Before the summer is over they will need trimming again.

I have learned a lot about how to conquer yard work this summer.  As this article has become quite lengthy, I will be back shortly to tell you about my bout with poison ivy and a run away lawnmower!  The most important tool you need to conquer yard work is the ability to laugh at yourself.  Heaven knows I will be a stand- up comic by the time this summer draws to a close!

Keep Smiling,

Judy

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://beadazzledejewelrycreations.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
Skype ID:  judy.conway

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Recently my daughter and her husband started on another one of their renovations projects.  This time it is putting laminate flooring throughout their entire upstairs (3 bedrooms, two baths and a hallway).  Being around this type of activity always makes me want to do something creative and gratifying.  The woodworking projects I have found in the Woodworking4home package gives me the incentive and direction to get busy and start building!

This package provides step-by-step plans, photos, diagrams and instructions for  14,000 various woodworking projects including, but not limited to, plans for arbors, beds (headboards, bunk beds cribs and more) dressers, benches, chairs, coffee tables, gazebos, greenhouses, bird feeders, boats, children rooms projects, computer desks, dog houses, pergolas, sheds, playhouses and the list goes on.  This is the most extensive list I have personally come across.

I am a retired, single grandmother and I will be investing in these plans and putting them to use.  With the economy the way it is today, I am always looking for ways to save money and building my own tables, cabinets, etc. will not only be fun, but also help me stretch my social security payments!!

With this Woodworking4Home package you will have instant access to 14,000 plans and projects of high quality that are suitable for beginners.  (This means a lot to me!)  These plans have been tried and tested.

You will also receive free bonuses and free future updates.  This is a one-time charge.  The sale price of $49.00 provides you with a lot of information.  This product also comes with a 100% Money Back Guarantee.  If for any reason the product fails to perform exactly the way it is described to you, you have 60 days to receive a refund with no questions asked.  You basically have nothing to lose.

I hope this information will be helpful to you.  Please stop back and let me know how your projects are coming using this Woodworking4Home package providing you with woodworking projects.

Happy building,

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://beadazzledjewelrycreations.com
Skype ID:  judy.conway

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We all know that this is the time of the year when we start hearing about hurricanes.  The Atlantic hurricane season is officially from June 1^st to November 30^th.  Now is the time to learn how to be prepared for hurricanes.

It is time to batten down the hatches and make sure we are prepared for what lies ahead of us during this year’s hurricane season.  As we have seen in the past, hurricanes can be dangerous killers.  By learning the hurricane warning messages, planning ahead and being properly prepared we can reduce the chances of injury, major property damage and even death.  I would like to take this opportunity to share some information on this subject with you.  This information is somewhat lengthy, but I have tried to cover all situations.  Print this out and go over it with your family and use it as a check list.

Plan an evacuation route.

• Contact the local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter, and request the community hurricane preparedness plan. This plan should include information on the safest evacuation routes and nearby shelters.
• Learn safe routes inland.
• Be ready to drive 20 to 50 miles inland to locate a safe place.

Have disaster supplies on hand.

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Nonelectric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes

Make arrangements for pets.

• Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space reasons. Contact your local humane society for information on local animal shelters. Please do not tie your pet to a railing or fence and leave it.  It broke my heart watching animals in these types of situations during Katrina.

Instruct family members.

• Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
• Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.

Protect your windows.

• Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use 1/2 inch plywood–marine plywood is best–cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which board fits which window. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws. Do this long before the storm.  Home improvement stores have been known to run out of storm supplies.  Do not wait until the last minute.
• If you can’t put up plywood or storm shutters at least put strong tape on your windows.
• Trim back dead or weak branches from trees.
• Check into flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood Insurance Program through your local insurance agent or emergency management office. (There is normally a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowners polices do not cover damage from the flooding that accompanies a hurricane.)

Develop an emergency communication plan.

• In case family members are separated from one another during a disaster (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together.
• Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the “family contact.” After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.

You will encounter two types of “alerts”:

A HURRICANE WATCH
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours. Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.

• Check emergency supplies.
• Fuel car.
• Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools and anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outside antennas.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. Use rope or chain to secure boat to trailer. Use tie-downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house.

A HURRICANE WARNING

A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less.

• Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tie-downs and evacuate immediately.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.
• Avoid elevators.

If at home:

• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power “surge” when electricity is restored.

If officials indicate evacuation is necessary:

• Leave as soon as possible.
• Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
• Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
• If time permits, and you live in an identified surge zone, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding or better yet, move it to a higher floor.
• Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
• Take blankets and sleeping bags to shelter.
• Lock up home and leave.
• Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.

AFTER THE HURRICANE
Stay tuned to local radio for information. Help injured or trapped persons.

• Give first aid where appropriate.
• Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.

Return home only after authorities have advised that it is safe to do so.

• Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department.
• Use caution when entering your home.
• Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
• Check refrigerated foods for spoilage. (when in doubt, throw it out!)
• Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents and for insurance claims.

Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.

Use telephone only for emergency calls.

INSPECTING UTILITIES IN A DAMAGED HOME

• Check for gas leaks–If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor’s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.
• Look for electrical system damage–If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.
• Check for sewage and water lines damage–If you suspect sewage lines are damaged avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid the water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.

Here is a compact list of items to accumulate and put together in one place ready to use.

• Battery operated flashlights are fine if the power is out for a short time. The new LED flashlights work well, as long as a spotlight isn’t needed. Target, Amazon.com and other stores have good ones in the $10 range that drop into a pocket and run on AA and AAA cells. They’re great for personal lights, and the batteries last five to ten times as long as with regular incandescent flashlights. Additionally, LED conversion bulbs are available on the Internet for more popular brands of flashlights.
• After a couple of days you will need candles for light. Buy big decorative candles that will burn for days. Keep lanterns/candles in frequently used locations, such as the bathroom counter, next to the door, and on your bedroom nightstand. IF there are gas leaks, explosive chemicals in your area, do NOT use candles, if you do, watch them to prevent fire, especially if children are with you.
• “Self Powered Lights” and “Self Powered Radios”. This equipment is either solar powered, and/or has a “crank up” generator built into the light and the radio. Find the lights at Amazon.com, or if time does not permit your placing an order check out Walmart or your local Radio Shack.. This will save you money on batteries, If you can find any, since they’ll be sold out WEEKS before a storm hits you. Some of these models will also charge cell phones.
• Glow sticks. found on Amazon.com and in sporting goods dealers. Safer than candles, in case there are gas leaks, explosive,flammable chemicals in your area.
• Solar powered garden lights. You can charge them up in the sun by day and use them indoors for lighting at night.
• Battery-operated radio
• Canned goods and can opener, fruits and vegetables and other foods that do not require refrigeration.
• Water (at least one gallon daily per person with a seven-day supply). You can also fill up bathtubs if you close or seal the drains.
• Bleach. In the event that water enters your home, you will need to get it out and then kill any microbes that remain.
• Take highly-valued items with you or, for those items staying in the home, wrap in plastic or place in plastic bags. Even if you are riding out the storm, consider placing photos, insurance papers and other important papers in sealed bags.
• Corded phone. Even if your electricity is out, your telephone may still work. Cordless phones still require electricity, so plug in a corded phone, and you may be surprised.
• Cell phone and extra charged batteries. Some of the “Self Powered Radios” and “Self Powered Flashlights” allow you to keep your cell phone charged. IF the cell phone towers are damaged, destroyed, cell phones will be no good.
• A DC to AC inverter.
• Pre-moistened towelettes.
• Battery-powered fans will be very appreciated if the power is out.
• Lots of batteries of all sizes (you can always use later what is not used during the storm). Consider buying a car battery to power battery operated devices in the home.
• Make sure each person has their own flashlight and battery supply, in case you have to separate.
• A good supply of all prescription drugs.
• A first-aid kit. (I have included anticipated items for a first aid kit below)
• Optional but helpful is one pair of wading pants for each member of the family, or at least the adults of the household. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you do not want to be walking around with your skin exposed to contaminated water if there is a need, after the storm, to walk from the home.
• Plenty of large plastic garbage bags to dispose of human waste and other garbage.
• Supply of toilet paper, and other toiletries as needed.
• At least one 5-gallon bucket and cat litter (the bio-degradable kind) for toilet use.
• A pocket knife for cutting things.

Items for a first aid kit.  Place these items in a waterproof box with a lid.

• A minimum of two pairs of Latex gloves for the smallest kit. Remember, it may be a stranger who needs your help and having a latex barrier will help prevent infection.
  • Use vinyl gloves if you or a family member is allergic to Latex. Latex allergies can be severe.
  • Keep ore pairs in your disaster kit that will evacuate with you. You may go through several pairs in one emergency.
  • Check the integrity of the gloves if they’ve been stored in changing temperatures. They may become brittle. Sometimes gloves deeper in a box may still be good so don’t toss the box because the first few pairs are bad. Look through them all.
• Sterile dressings to stop bleeding. (Look for bulky dressings called surgi pads in health supply stores)
• Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect.
  • Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
• Burn ointment to relieve pain.
• Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
• Gauze pads
• Micropore tape
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or sterile saline as general decontaminate. Sterile saline is available in liter bottles in health supply stores.
• Thermometer
• Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers.
  • You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates and have a plan for refrigerated insulin.
• Over-the-counter pain medicine (Like Tylenol and Advil) and an antihistamine (Like Benadryl).
• Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.

Seven hurricanes and four tropical storms are predicted during this year’s hurricane season.  I hope that this information will help you on how to be prepared for hurricanes.  In preparing this article I have learned things myself that I will most definitely be adding to my checklist.

I wish you a safe hurricane season!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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Vacation does not have to be the demise of your weight loss program. The following information will help to show you how to lose weight on vacation. When planning your trip include physical activities along with where you are staying, what you are doing when you get to your destination and items to pack.

Make it a family effort. Strive to improve the health of your entire family. You will end up not only building muscles but also relationships with your family members.

When one thinks about vacation, thoughts of spending your time lounging, eating unhealthy foods and consuming calorie laden beverages.
When shopping places to stay on your vacation, I would like to recommend staying at a vacation house. This will give you the capabilities of cooking healthy meals. You will not be sabotaging your weight loss program. Granted a lot of people do not want to spend their time cooking on vacation, but your meals do not have to be elaborate … just healthy.

In addition, you can save a LOT of money not eating out at restaurants. If you do stay at a hotel, check out the restaurants in the area for “healthy” choices. With more people being health conscious nowadays, restaurants are catering more to people desire to eat healthy.

The list below contains some suggestions of ways you can incorporate more physical activity while you are vacationing:

If you are staying at the beach, swimming in the ocean and battling the waves can burn a lot of calories. Also, long walks on the beach are always enjoyable allowing you to burn calories and build leg muscles. Get involved with the kids tossing a Frisbee, or playing volleyball.

Visit a National Park. Enjoy hiking and taking in the beauty of the trails. The fresh air and exercise will contribute to a great night’s sleep.

If you are visiting a historical locale, take a walking tour as opposed to a bus or other motorized tour. You will see a lot more walking, burn calories and get exercise!

Renting bicycles and touring the area is always a great option, and one the children will definitely enjoy. Just be sure you obey all of the traffic rules and know where you are going.

If you are traveling in the winter time, skiing, ice skating, snowboarding or sledding is a lot of fun. All of these sports will give you a definite workout and be fun for the entire family. You can still spend time socializing in front of a cozy fireplace.

Wherever you go on vacation you will most likely find a swimming pool. Do laps with the children, or by yourself.

If you are involved with an exercise program at home where you are doing yoga, muscle building, strength resistance or just walking you can take simple portable equipment, that you can pack in your suitcase, on vacation to keep you on track with your exercise regimen.

If you are a yoga enthusiast, consider packing Yoga Paws. These are mini Yoga mats for your hands and feet. These weigh two pounds and four ounces and would be absolutely convenient for traveling if you are concerned with your luggage weight. Throw in your favorite DVD and you will be prepared to stay on track. You can also find travel Yoga mats.

The SPRI Xertube Resistance Bands come with a door attachment and exercise chart and will be like a gym away from home. They come in medium, heavy and extra heavy. These bands provide you with a highly versatile way to add resistance training to your workout anytime and anywhere. Each kit includes two illustrated charts of exercises, including bicep curls, shoulder presses, and back extensions. Designed for light and speedy mobility, the strap can be rolled up to stash in a gym bag or suitcase.

Last time I checked these items were all in stock at Amazon.com and they are eligible for the Free Super Saver Shipping Program.

Personally, I do a walking program with Leslie Sansone’s “Walk Away the Pounds Express”. You will usually have a DVD player where you are staying and you will be able to walk and do this program in the air conditioning! If you are not already using this program, this is something you will enjoy doing once you get back home from your vacation! Bad weather, or hot summer heat does not have to put a stop to your walking the weight off. I would encourage you to click on the links below and read the reviews of people who have purchased these DVD’s.

I hope this information will be helpful in showing you  how to lose weight on vacation.

I wish you happy, safe travels!

Judy Conway

Email: judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
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People in fifty different countries around the world bid Carlos and Donna Royal goodbye last night.  They have done a most excellent job of hosting The Owl Box in San Marcos, California since February 2010.  It was truly an amazing experience to watch Molly and McGee (the parent owls) mate, hatch and nurture four owlets.  There were six eggs, however one egg broke and one never hatched.  We were able to watch this process from day one.  Molly was a very nurturing mother and McGee was a good provider.  Did you know that owls can swallow a rat or rabbit whole?  The owlets grew too quickly and it was not long before they were leaving the box.  Now they have all left the box and can be seen residing in a nearby palm tree. Research shows that barn owls will reside within a five mile radius of where they were born.  It was very difficult to say farewell.

My daughter introduced me to Molly’s adventure on the Sportsman’s Paradise website.  Molly the Barn Owl became one of the top sites viewed on UStream and she even has her own “room” there.  By the time it was all said and done there were over 14 million views.

Carlos and Donna have dealt with all of the technical paraphernalia in their dining room, entertaining the news media people, national television for the Morning Show and virtually taking this experience worldwide.  Carlos is retired but probably worked harder than he ever has.  He scheduled time via Skype for classroom discussions across the country.  The children learned a great deal about barn owls.  If Carlos did not know the answer the first time around, he would do his research and knew the answer the next time it was asked.  In fact, we all have learned a great deal about barn owls.  They are beautiful caring creatures.

Carlos has been on duty 24/7 making sure that the cameras were adjusted properly and everything was working properly. He provided viewers with night vision cameras and day time cameras. There have been times when the owls have landed on the cameras sending what we saw askew necessitating Carlos climbing a ladder in the early morning hours in his pajamas making the necessary adjustments so we could all have a “bird’s eye view”!

Most people left their Molly webpage up and throughout the day and evening you would hear Carlos’ voice as he would bring up up to date on the latest developments with the owls and activities.  I will certainly miss that.

Carlos definitely went above and beyond what most people in his position would have done.  When people in the chat room were concerned that the owlets might fall out of the box, he built and added on a little porch type attachment.  And then he added a platform that the owlets were able to fly to close by the owl house and play.

Austin, Carlos and Donna’s grandson, was a big help with setting up the technical aspects.  He is still working on putting all the videos and photos that have been taken (and believe me there are a lot) for people to purchase copies of.

Eric Blehm, a renowned author and personal friend of the Royal’s is currently finishing up writing a book, “Molly the Owl” detailing the entire experience.  The book is  illustrated by Christopher Adams.  John Atkinson has kept us rolling in laughter by creating ecomics of Molly, McGee, the owlets, Carlos and Donna.  We all grew to love these owls.  You can read more about Molly the Barn Own of San Marcos, California and see photos at http://mollysbox.wordpress.com/blog/.  On this site you can actually see a photo of the actual owl house which sat 15 feet above the ground.

Besides being able to purchase the book, “Molly the Owl”, ecomics, and fine illustrations, we have also been able to purchase many other items of memorabilia. A portion of all of the sales will go to barn owl habitats in the area.

Carlos and Dona put their vacation on hold to share this experience with the world.  We are all hoping that there will be another episode in the future.  The night before we said goodbye, Molly and McGee were seen in the owl box “bonding”!  Who knows there may be new little owls in the near future.  We are all hoping this will be the case.  There are many people who are currently suffering owl withdrawal!

In closing, on behalf of many people, I want to thank Carlos and Dona for opening up their home to all of us for these past four months.  Also, much appreciation goes out to Austin, Eric, Chris and John.  Thank you all for making this all possible.  I can honestly say, “Gee that was fun, and I was part of it!”

Happy, safe travels Carlos and Donna!

Judy Conway

Email:  judyconwaymarketing@gmail.com
http://homebusinessinatlanta.com
http://fullservicemarketingtools.com
http://beadazzledjewelrycreations.com
Skype ID: judy.conway

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