5 Important Rules in Website Design

5 Important Rules in Website Design

When it comes to your website, extra attention should be paid to every minute detail to make sure it performs optimally to serve its purpose. Here are seven important rules of thumb to observe to make sure your website performs well. 

1) Do not use splash pages

Splash pages are the first pages you see when you arrive at a website. They normally have a very beautiful image with words like "welcome" or "click here to enter". In fact, they are just that -- pretty vases with no real purpose. Do not let your visitors have a reason to click on the "back" button! Give them the value of your site up front without the splash page.

2) Do not use excessive banner advertisements

Even the least net savvy people have trained themselves to ignore banner advertisements so you will be wasting valuable website real estate. Instead, provide more valueable content and weave relevant affiliate links into your content, and let your visitors feel that they want to buy instead of being pushed to buy. 

3) Have a simple and clear navigation

You have to provide a simple and very straightforward navigation menu so that even a young child will know how to use it. Stay away from complicated Flash based menus or multi-tiered dropdown menus. If your visitors don't know how to navigate, they will leave your site. 

4) Have a clear indication of where the user is

When visitors are deeply engrossed in browsing your site, you will want to make sure they know which part of the site they are in at that moment. That way, they will be able to browse relevant information or navigate to any section of the site easily. Don't confuse your visitors because confusion means "abandon ship"!

5) Avoid using audio on your site

If your visitor is going to stay a long time at y

My Computer is So Slow

It's a big problem. You're trying to get some work done on your computer and it starts acting like it's sick. It's slow and definitely out of sorts. What can be done about it?

A computer can become under the weather for a lot of reasons. Usually, when it is ailing, it tells us by slowing down. Let's see if we can figure out what has happened to a computer that once flew, but now acts like it has the flu.

Don't forget the System Tray

First, if you have a lot of programs opened, just close a couple of them and see if that makes a difference. Also, check your system tray. This is in the lower right hand corner of your computer screen. Whenever you add a new program, the installer will ask if you want the program to open on computer startup. Usually, at this point we are all just clicking next in response to any question, so the result is we get a lot of programs starting up automatically. You can usually close these programs by right-clicking their icons.

There are other things that can slow down your computer and they are not at all your fault. There is one thing that happens to Windows operating systems in particular. We can just call it a Windows peculiarity.

The Windows Registry

The registry, which is a mainstay of Windows operating systems, becomes loaded with information it no longer uses. So, this added dead weight of useless information makes your computer use all its resources to do very little. It makes it seem like your computer is running up hill all the time. No wonder it acts sick! Fortunately, we can clean out this dead weight with a registry cleaner.

It's a big problem. You're trying to get some work done on your computer and it starts acting like it's sick. It's slow and definitely out of sorts. What can be done about it?

A computer can become poorly for a lot of reasons. Usually, when it is ailing, it tells us by slowing down. Let's see if we can figure out what has happened to a computer that once flew, but now acts like it has the flu.

Don't forget the System Tray

First, if you've a lot of programs opened, just close a couple of them and see if that makes a difference. Also, check your system tray. This is in the lower right hand corner of your computer screen. Whenever you add a new program, the installer will ask if you want the program to open on computer startup. Usually, at this point we are all just clicking next in response to any question, so the result is we get a lot of programs starting up automatically. You can usually close these programs by right-clicking their icons.

There are other things that can behind down your computer and they are not at all your fault. There is one thing that happens to Windows operating systems in particular. We can just call it a Windows peculiarity.

The Windows Registry

The registry, which is a mainstay of Windows OSs, becomes loaded with information it no longer uses. So, this added dead weight of useless information makes your computer use all its resources to do very little. It makes it seem like your computer is running up hill all the time. No wonder it acts sick! Fortunately, we can clean out this dead weight with a registry cleaner.

When your PC is running slowly it becomes impossible to continue up on your work. So, time being money, you have another important reason, other than the aggravation factor, to keep your PC humming along.

The bottom line is, you are able to only do so much by yourself to keep your computer from slowing down. After you closed all you can close and after you've gotten to the point there are only a couple of much needed icons in the system tray, you need to call on help from the outside world to aid you in getting your computer back up to speed.

Using a registry cleaner is taking on step in the direction of restoring your computer's speed. Assuming you have a good virus/spyware uninstaller on your computer, using a registry cleaner may be the only step you need to take to restore your computer to great health.

THE ATTACK BY FIRE

 1. Sun Tzu said: There are five ways of attacking
  with fire. The first is to burn soldiers in their camp;
  the second is to burn stores; the third is to burn
  baggage trains; the fourth is to burn arsenals and magazines;
  the fifth is to hurl dropping fire amongst the enemy.

 2. In order to carry out an attack, we must have
  means available. The material for raising fire should
  always be kept in readiness.

 3. There is a proper season for making attacks with fire,
  and special days for starting a conflagration.

 4. The proper season is when the weather is very dry;
  the special days are those when the moon is in the
  constellations of the Sieve, the Wall, the Wing
  or the Cross-bar; for these four are all days of rising wind.

 5. In attacking with fire, one should be prepared
  to meet five possible developments:

 6. (1) When fire breaks out inside to enemy's camp,
  respond at once with an attack from without.

 7. (2) If there is an outbreak of fire, but the enemy's
  soldiers remain quiet, bide your time and do not attack.

Autumn Fires

 In the other gardens
  And all up the vale,
From the autumn bonfires
  See the smoke trail!

Pleasant summer over
  And all the summer flowers,
The red fire blazes,
  The grey smoke towers.

Sing a song of seasons!
  Something bright in all!
Flowers in the summer,
  Fires in the fall!

Marching Song

 Bring the comb and play upon it!
  Marching, here we come!
Willie cocks his highland bonnet,
  Johnnie beats the drum.

Mary Jane commands the party,
  Peter leads the rear;
Feet in time, alert and hearty,
  Each a Grenadier!

All in the most martial manner
  Marching double-quick;
While the napkin, like a banner,
  Waves upon the stick!

Here's enough of fame and pillage,
  Great commander Jane!
Now that we've been round the village,
  Let's go home again.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PRINT & MAIL DEALER.

A direct-mail campaign is EXPENSIVE! There are many ways to cut the cost 
of your mailings. Bulk mail, SASE's, and many other ways. One of the best 
ways to lower your mailing costs, though, is by using a PRINT & MAIL DEALER.
Print & mail dealers do exactly what their name describes. They can take 
your ads, usually 8 1/2 x 11 flyers, print them and mail them to names drawn 
from a mailing list. Their services are quite inexpensive, sometimes 
costing close to what your local printer would charge for printing alone.  
How is this?
A print & mail business runs something like this. When the dealer receives 
an order from a customer, for example, 1000 8 1/2 x 11 flyers, printed & 
mailed, he will print the flyers on one side of the paper, with HIS flyer 
on the back.
Thus, anyone who receives the customer's flyer will also get the dealer's 
flyer. This cuts his advertising costs. Then, he will assemble a group of 
different orders together into one mailing. This could as little as two 
pages, to as large as 50 pages. These are bulk mailed to names drawn from 
a mailing list, usually of opportunity seekers or mail order enthusiasts.  
They could also be mailed out to those who have responded to ads the print 
& mail dealer has placed.

Hercules and the Waggoner

A Waggoner was once driving a heavy load along a very muddy
way. At last he came to a part of the road where the wheels sank
half-way into the mire, and the more the horses pulled, the deeper
sank the wheels. So the Waggoner threw down his whip, and knelt
down and prayed to Hercules the Strong. "O Hercules, help me in
this my hour of distress," quoth he. But Hercules appeared to
him, and said:

"Tut, man, don't sprawl there. Get up and put your shoulder
to the wheel."

The gods help them that help themselves.

The Hart and the Hunter

The Hart was once drinking from a pool and admiring the noble
figure he made there. "Ah," said he, "where can you see such
noble horns as these, with such antlers! I wish I had legs more
worthy to bear such a noble crown; it is a pity they are so slim
and slight." At that moment a Hunter approached and sent an arrow
whistling after him. Away bounded the Hart, and soon, by the aid
of his nimble legs, was nearly out of sight of the Hunter; but not
noticing where he was going, he passed under some trees with
branches growing low down in which his antlers were caught, so
that the Hunter had time to come up. "Alas! alas!" cried the
Hart:

"We often despise what is most useful to us."

HOW TO MAKE MONEY WITH GOURMET GIFT BASKETS

Here's a pleasant home-based business that will challenge your creative as 
well as your managerial skills. It's a fun business for those who have the 
flare for creating appetizing gift packages.

A FUN PRODUCT 
Gourmet gift baskets have become popular in recent years. They are a 
collection of desirable items, and in such a variety that they appeal to all. 
By determining the markets you want to target and the type of baskets you 
want to produce, you can set your income goals for as little or as much as 
you like.

CORPORATE ACCOUNTS 
From the very large and the very small, businesses have needs for gift 
giving on a pretty constant basis.

By targeting corporate accounts, you protect yourself from potential sales 
fluctuations common to what are generally considered seasonal items. 
Businesses love gift baskets because they are "safe" compared to other gifts 
like chocolate (many people now carefully watch their fat intake) or wine & 
spirits (many people don't drink). Of course, other possible clients for your 
gift baskets include associations, retail outlets, fund raisers, and 
individual customers who purchase for themselves or as a gift.


CREATIVE DESIGNS 

Gourmet gift baskets are fundamentally a few nice items placed in a unique 
arrangement and presented to look extravagant. Use your imagination and keep 
an eye for unusual and appealing products. To keep unit price low, inventory 
most commonly used items by purchasing direct from the manufacturer or main 
distributor. Look for large pretty items; they will give your product "size".

THEME MARKETING 

Focus on a theme and build around it. From a corporate perspective, create 
presentations that communicate the corporate logo or marketing slogan.

Do not limit yourself by just using baskets as your main vehicle. For 
example, a basket with an Italian theme can use (as its basket) a large pasta 
bowl to hold a small vinegar, olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes and kitchen 
utensils.

Raffia or "grass" can be used to cushion the items, sealed together with 
shrink wrap. Finish your basket with a bow or creative ribbon, and you've 
got a product that can be retailed for around $39. Your cost: as low as $12.

keep your money out of the hands of the IRS

Everybody wants to keep as much of the money they earn as possible. Those people in the higher income brackets are forever looking for a way to protect their money from the income tax collectors.



 Thus, the idea of personal tax shelter. The thing is, how can you tell which ones are the good ones, and which ones are the bad ones. - tax shelters can certainly "keep your money out of the hands of the IRS" - but some of them can cost you dearly as well.

 Generally, all real estate purchases have definite tax advantage. In even the simplest kind of transaction such as buying a better home for your family, you'll be able to deduct from your gross income the amount you pay in mortgage interest and property taxes.


 If you rent out your old house, or buy a house as a rental property, you'll be allowed to deduct all your expenses from the rent you receive. You can also deduct the depreciation on the house, based on the cost or on the market value at the time the house was converted to a rental property, whichever is lower.



 You also have the option to compute your depreciation over 15-years, which would probably give you a tax loss even though the property is producing a cash income for you. Remember though, you cannot claim a depreciation on the value of the land, only for the cost of the house.



 Until 1981, you could not deduct losses on a property rented to relatives - however that rule has been repealed and now makes family tax savings available in certain situations when you rent to relatives. Be sure to check with your local IRS Office for complete details.



 So-called Clifford Trusts are tax shelters that shift the gross income of a company or family bread-winner to other family members in lower tax brackets. An income-producing property is transferred to a trust which must be set up to last 10 years and a day. The beneficiary receives the income during this period, and then the property reverts back to the grantor.



 This type of trust is often used to accumulate money for children, who can use it for higher education or for a start in a career or business of their own. You should bear in mind when setting up such a trust however, that parents have a legal duty to support their minor children and thus, a trust cannot be set up to be used for that purpose.



 Equipment Leasing Programs are another common income-sheltering method. Most of these programs can be combined with a trust. Her's how they work: The owner of a business sets up a trust for a family member. Business property or equipment is transferred to the trust, and then leased back to the business. The trust gets the income, and the business gets a deduction for the rental fees it pays.



 From another angle, the trust could buy equipment for lease to the business and get deductions for interest and other expenses involved. Investment tax credit can also sometimes be claimed in non-net-lease situations.



 Making interest-free loans is another method of sheltering one's income. Say you lend several thousand dollars to a son or daughter who invests the money. The borrower gets the income, and you eventually get your money back. If you're in the 50% tax bracket and the borrower is in the 25% bracket, your tax savings can be considerable.



 Investing in Municipal Bonds are very definitely a means of sheltering your income. Income from these bonds is tax free, but it's generally lower than from other types of investments. Municipal Bonds pay at a fixed rate of interest. Relative to other kinds of investments you could make, you'll lose on Municipals if interest rates go up, and win only if the interest rates on other investments go down.



 By now, everyone knows about IRA's and Keogh plans for the self-employed. You put money into a personal retirement trust and pay no taxes on it until you actually withdraw from it. Some companies give their employees a chance to set up their own retirement accounts, thereby deferring part of their gross incomes until after they retire.



 However, deferring income until after one retires is no longer as attractive as it used to be, particularly if your tax rate is not expected to change after retirement. If you don't anticipate a lower tax bracket after you retire, it's generally better to take all your income now and invest it in high yield growth funds that will mean more money for you in your retirement years.



 There are innumerable ways and methods to shelter your gross income from the tax collectors, all of them legal. The important thing is to check them out with your tax preparer and decide which would be best for you.ing a€

Start by clearing a space in your garage for storage. One side of a two-car garage, or any 8 by 12 foot space should be sufficient. If you have a garden shed that's dry, that would work well also. Some paper collectors even rent space in a neighborhood mini-warehouse. We've even seen some paper collectors store their collected paper on pallets in their backyards, using tarpaulins over it to keep it dry. The important thing is to have a space available to store your collected paper until you're ready to haul it to the recycling depot.

 Being a firm believer in doing as little as possible of the physical work involved in any business, I recommend you hire people to do a lot of this for you. By that I mean you should contact all the cub scouts, girl scouts, and civic organizations in your area; tell them you'll pay them money for the paper they collect and turn in to you. At the same time, contact the counselors at the schools and colleges in your area and tell them you'll pay them for all the paper they collect. The idea is to get everyone in your area collecting paper for you, eliminating the need to do the actual collecting yourself.

 How much of the gross profit you allow or pay these people who do the actual collection is up to you. The average rate is $25 to $30 per ton when you are getting $50 per ton.

 In the beginning, you may have to make up a sign and tape it to the side of your pick-up or car, and "pound the pavement" yourself, but you would expect to do this in starting any business. Basically, there's nothing to this excepting that it takes time you could be using to do other things; but is there anything more important than getting your new business "off the ground?"

 A simple sign such as JOE'S PAPER RECYCLING SERVICE - Phone 123-4567, is about all that's necessary. You could have this made up on a magnetic mat at most quick print shops. Have a college art student make one up for you on butcher paper, or have a professional sign painter produce one for you on heavy card stock.


 With this sign on the side of your pickup, car, or trailer, simply drive through the residential neighborhoods of your area. Park in the middle of a block, get out and start knocking on doors, asking the residents if they have old newspapers or cardboard boxes they'd like for you to haul away for them. Generally, you'll get an armload of old newspapers at every house. Simply carry them to your pickup or trailer, then go on to the
next house.

 If you'll set up a definite route to follow, certain streets on certain days about once every two weeks, you'll find the homeowners will have stacks of paper waiting for you. Regardless of whether the person answering the door gives you a stack of papers, always leave a business card at each home.

 Some paper recyclers offer to pay the people saving newspapers for them, and having it ready for them when they make their collection rounds. Generally, this isn't necessary. If you'll develop regular collection days for each street or neighborhood,
you'll find the people putting papers out for you just as they set out their garbage for collection.

 There are even some paper recyclers who charge the people to haul their paper away. This isn't advisable, because once you start hauling rubbish, you'll end up doing clean-up work, and hauling more to the dump than you do to the recycling depot.

 Once you have your collection routes organized, you can hire students to make your collection rounds after school, and haul the paper to your storage center. You can set up crews of three - one to drive the truck or car while the others knock on doors on each side of the street.

 Depending on how much paper each route gives you every two weeks, you could have a crew working several routes each day for minimum wage, probably so much per truck or trailer load, and expect to collect a couple of tons of paper for every three hours
they work.

HOME-BASED BUSINESS

THE EASIEST HOME-BASED BUSINESS


 There's an exciting new "down-home" kind of business springing up among homeowners all across the country. It's called Bed and Breakfast.

 Basically, this is a transplant of European Hospitality, adapted and refined to the American way of doing things. To foreign visitors, it's the comfort and hospitality of home - staying overnight "with people of the land" and enjoying a hearty breakfast - without the traditional gaudiness and plastic feelings visitors get from most big cities in the United States. To U.S. citizens, it is a welcome alternative to the same old hotel/motel circuit,

 Now, all it takes is a spare bedroom, a good cook and an outgoing personality. Prices per night range from a low of $25 to $100 or more.

 If you have an extra bedroom, a large home, or extra space in your farm house, you have the necessary beginnings to start making extra income as a Bed and Break fast Inn. One of the beautiful aspects of this idea is that so long as you're hosting "over night
visitors" on a small scale, no licenses will be required. It's always best, however, to check with your local authorities just to be sure.

 Naturally, your "visitors" will expect a clean, neat and comfortable home. So assuming that your home meets these prerequisites, and you have a spare bedroom, simply "doll it up" a bit. Make sure it's painted brightly, there's an outside window, lots of room, closet space and bureau, and perhaps a small writing desk, and a large comfortable bed, or twin beds.

 Most foreign visitors will expect and appreciate a "quick tour" of the interesting sights in your area. However, as your particular popularity as a B & B Host grows, you'll find that a lot of American tourists and business people on the road will begin availing themselves of your hospitality. Certainly with these people, it won't always be necessary to give the "Red Carpet" visitors' treatment.

 Which brings us to the basic appeal of a Bed and Breakfast Inn. Travelers seem to be looking for, and appreciate a quiet "home-style" place to stay. Generally, they enjoy visiting with the people off the superhighway and want to get away from the sterilized atmosphere and sameness of hotels and motels.

 Most people will either write to you ahead of time, inquiring about the possibilities of staying at your home while in your town or city. This means a bit of advertising on your part, or listing your availability with a B & B broker. Some people will check the local telephone listings, and the newspaper advertisements when they arrive in a strange town. And some people will just be driving across the country, come to a town or city they think is interesting, and start driving through the residential areas looking for Bed and Breakfast Inns.

 Thus, you should have a small sign posted either in your front yard or on the front of your house. This sign needn't be much more than about two feet wide by about ten inches deep. It need only state: BED AND BREAKFAST - Inquire Within or Call
123-4567.

 For newspaper advertising, a similar listing in the personal column of your local paper, particularly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, will be all you'll need. But when it comes to the yellow pages of your telephone and business directories, go with a small display ad that describes in greater detail the comforts and pleasures of your services.

 Be sure to list your services with all the travel agencies in your area. A brochure or a short synopsis of what you offer will most assuredly give the travel agents an idea for steering visitors your way. At the same time, listing your services in a number of national travel magazines - particularly those that cater to women - will bring customers in for you.

 Listing your services with a broker usually won't cost you anything up front, but they will expect a certain percentage - usually about 25% of the total bill. This same arrangement applies with travel agents.

 Now, suppose you're organized and ready to receive your first customers. You greet them as host or hostess and offer to assist them in getting situated in the room or rooms you have for them. If they'd like to take a drive around your area and see the points of interest, you do that. And then in the morning, serve them a big, delicious breakfast.

 You'll probably find that foreign visitors will want to stay several days. With most people of this country who are just travelling through your area, it'll be a one-night stopover. Whatever, if they want to sleep comfortably through the night, eat breakfast and be on their way, so be it. If they want to sit around after breakfast and plan an itinerary for a complete visit of your area, your assistance and help will be greatly appreciated. (Remember those recommendations)!

 That's it! The complete how and why of this tremendously profitable business that's becoming more and more popular. It's called Bed & Breakfast, and it's very definitely a low investment idea. And you can parlay it into a very interesting and comfort
able income producing business - all from the comforts of your own home!

Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha

Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha.

2/3 cup whole milk
6 tablespoons white chocolate chips
coffee
whipped cream
Add milk and chocolate chips to a saucepan or double broiler and heat until
chips are melted, meanwhile make coffee in espresso machine, pour half of
milk.
Add mixture to coffee mug and fill rest of the mug with coffee saving enough
room for a dollop of whipped cream
Enough for two mugs.
You may also use Torani's White Chocolate Syrup.

Starbucks Caramel Macchiato.

The average coffee mug is probably equivalent to a Tall (12-oz). I am not
following precise Starbucks standards, though if you must know it's properly one
shot of espresso, about .75 oz syrup (.25 oz per 4 oz liquid capacity).
- milk
- 1 shot espresso
- .75 oz vanilla syrup (.25 oz per 4 oz liquid)
- your favorite caramel sauce
In a regular-sized coffee mug, add vanilla syrup and steamed milk. Top with milk
foam and add freshly brewed espresso through the foam. Drizzle with caramel
sauce

Benihana's Fried Rice.

Benihana's Fried Rice.

1 cup uncooked rice

5 tablespoons butter

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped carrots

2/3 cup chopped scallions

3 tablespoons Sesame seeds

5 Eggs

5 tablespoons soy sauce
Salt
Pepper
Cook rice according to package directions. In a large skillet melt
butter.
Add onions, carrots and scallions. Saute until carrots are
translucent.
Set aside. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place sesame seeds in a
shallow pan.
Bake until golden brown (10 to 15 minutes), shaking pan
occasionally for even color. Lightly grease another skillet. Beat eggs. Pour into hot
skillet. Cook as you would scrambled eggs. Combine rice, vegetables,
sesame seeds and eggs. Add soy sauce. Stir. Salt and pepper to

taste.

Cracker Barrel's Hashbrown Casserole.

2 lbs. frozen hashbrowns
1/2 cup melted butter
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pt. sour cream
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cups grated cheddar
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 cups crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup melted butter
DEFROST hashbrowns.
COMBINE next 7 ingr. and mix with hashbrowns.
PUT all in a 3 qt. casserole.
SAUTE cornflakes in butter and sprinkle on top.
COVER and BAKE at 350 for about 40 min.

CMS Market

As the Internet continues to expand and grow, the amount of on-line content on websites continues to stretch the limits of even the most capable web developers. The electronic "stuff" available can be enormously difficult to keep track of. Content management systems like Joomla help provide the organizational solutions necessary to keep the text, images, videos, and sounds on your websites in order and easy to use.

And with the free open source nature of Joomla's code, it has never been easier to develop specific extensions for a wide variety of website needs: live chat plugins, online play lists, Facebook compatibility, etc. Which only leaves one problem: who is going to organize the website organizers to make it simple and easy to find the type of Joomla extension you need?

That's where CMS Market comes in. Whether you are an expert in content management systems designing professional websites or just curious about how software like Joomla can ramp up your blog, CMS Market is designed to be your ideal location to find--and to upload--the latest Joomla extensions and tools.

How to Choose the Right Cardio Exercise For You

Cardio exercises are the most effective way in losing the extra weight. There are a lot of cardio exercises to choose from and there are important factors to consider when choosing the right one for you. It is not as simple as opting for the one that burns the most amount of fat compared to the rest.

The considerations

Go to a physician first to know your fitness level. You would not want to engage in any activity that is beyond your physical capacities, nor one that is too easy for you that it would not be effective in burning fat.

Know and set your goals. Determine whether you are aiming to lose weight or you want to keep and maintain the one you are in. Are you simply doing it to keep fit or is it in preparation for a tournament?

Opt for what you enjoy. Swimming may burn more fats than running, but would it really be of any help if you hated the water? Walking may bore you easily and you may end up giving up the weight loss thing easily.

Your budget is also to be considered, whether you can afford gym membership or those fancy equipment. What is the point in choosing aerobics classes when you can only afford a once-a-week session?

Easy versus hard

Choosing involves knowing whether you can do it or not. Among the low-intensity workouts are walking, elliptical training, and cycling. The high-intensity exercises include jumping rope and spinning. The first group involves exercises done at slow paces for longer periods, while the latter group involves powerful bursts for short periods.

Onsite SEO Tips

SEO (search engine optimization) comes in two flavors-onsite SEO and offsite SEO. In this article we will concern ourselves with learning some of the on site SEO steps that can help your sites ranking in the serps (search engine results pages.)

Onsite SEO is simply steps you can take as you set-up and write content for your blog or web site that will help optimize your site for the search engines. SEO makes it easier for the search engine spiders to digest and rank the content of your site, and hopefully get your content on the first page of the serps (this is where you want to be, if large amounts of search engine traffic is your goal!)

Here is my most important steps to setting-up proper onsite SEO for your blog or web site:

1.Use your keywords in your title, not only that but try to make them the very first words in the title! Google (the search engine you really want to impress!) puts a lot of importance on the title, and so should you!

2.Use your main keywords in the form they will be searched for. So if your keywords are "make extra money working from home" (this is the phrase you feel will be searched for) use that exact phrase several times in your content. About 1%-5% is about right. Also using your keywords in the first as well as closing paragraphs is a good idea. Just make sure there is no doubt your content is about your keywords "making extra money working from home" without overusing them.(using them too much may well be worse, from an SEO standpoint, than not using them enough!)

3.Write content that covers your topic well. Don't skimp, give your readers what they are searching for-the search engines will love it!

4.Use your keywords in your description tags.

5.Include internal links to more good content on the subject of your article.

6.Include a site map. If using WordPress use a site map plugin, or a page with your site map.

7.Break up your content with images, video, and audio.

8.Use a domain name with your main keywords in it as close to the beginning as possible. Also registrar the name for longer than a year (so Google knows you're in this for the long haul!)

9.Use your keywords in your responses to the comments you receive, you will fine knowledgeable commenters doing the same.

10.Create a custom 404 page. You might be surprised at how many people can end up on your 404 page, make it easy for them to find your content.

How to Stay Cool While Saving Money

Not everyone is lucky enough to live in a home with central air built in. Some homeowners find that if they want to be able to cool their homes down during the hotter months, they need to go out and buy an air conditioner and install it themselves. Most people opt for a portable or window unit, but those can leak and damage your home, not to mention the noise they make. Your best bet, if you want to keep cool during the hot summer months, is to install Mitsubishi air conditioners in your home.

The most popular line of Mitsubishi air conditioners right now is their Mr. Slim line. Similar to window units in that they do not require your home to have any HVAC piping or plumbing in place already, Mr. Slim is a different type of choice.

A qualified HVAC installer will install the Mr. Slim air conditioning units above your windows. The installer will make sure that the unit is properly sealed and that you will not risk doing any damage to your home.

Obviously there are other types of air conditioners the company makes, but the Mr. Slim line is currently the most popular as it functions in the same way as a window unit air conditioner without actually having to sit in your window or running the risk of accidentally leaking all over your floors.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of installing an ac unit is the tax credit you can receive on next year's taxes. Homeowners who perform energy efficient improvements to their homes in 2009 (after February 17) are eligible for up to a $1500 tax credit on 2010 taxes. If that isn't an incentive to inspect your current air conditioning options, we don't know what is!

A Cookie Recipe to Die For

There are healthier cookies.

But they are probably not at your grocery store. Food companies put a lot of things in what they make that extend the "shelf life" of their offerings. And most of these things are not good for you.

It's ironic that what we want, something to eat requiring little effort, can be just as quick and easy and made at home with fresh wholesome ingredients that won't make you fat.

But the bigger issue is... Will what you are eating make you sick?

A lot of people are overweight and never feel well. They sit and stare at some video screen and eat all the time.

Like the preteen boy who already has high blood pressure...and so does his mother who is in her early 30's. Neither of them should have this problem. And they are also overweight, very overweight. She often eats a whole bag of cookies while she watches TV in the evening, after they have dinner. Her son eats his own bag of cookies.

It's sad to think that a treat like a bag of cookies would make you fat and sick.

Why is it so bad?

Four things make those cookies bad for you.

1. Portion size. How many you eat.
2. Hydrogenated vegetable oil. It's oil that has been heated to make it last longer. It's very bad for you. It will kill you slowly, but young. In the interim it will just make you fat and ugly. You have the right to be miffed.
3. High fructose corn syrup. The villain in the epidemic of Type II diabetes that is sweeping this country. This stuff is like a chemical bomb. It first confuses and then wrecks your pancreas. It makes you resist the insulin your pancreas produces and then you become a full-blown (bombed and wrecked) diabetic. Next thing you know you are losing parts.
4. Refined flour. Whole wheat actually has nutrients and fiber. Refined flour makes good paste.

Instead try a better cookie an eat fewer of them.

My favorite cookie is based on old-fashioned oatmeal cookies. I love this recipe. We work out a lot and it's like a really good energy bar without the preservatives. Even if you eat a lot of these cookies they are healthier and more nutritious than other cookies that have a lot of bad fats, refined flour and sugar and no fiber.
It takes only a mixer and a few minutes to make the cookie dough. I freeze the dough rolled in tubes of waxed paper and bake fresh as needed.

A Better Oatmeal Cookie

½ cup Flax seed oil (keep refrigerated)
¾ cup chopped fresh apple or applesauce
½ cup dark brown sugar
½ cup honey
2 eggs
1 cup chopped mixed dried fruit
1/2 cup flax seed
1 cup slivered almonds (pecans, walnuts or peanuts can work, too, but almonds have fewer calories)
2 Teaspoons vanilla
1 & ½ cups of whole-wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon cloves
½ teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon salt (optional)
1 cup raisons
3 cups regular long cooking oats (not quick cooking!)

1. Beat together oil, apples, honey and sugar.
2. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.
3. Add combined flour, baking soda, salt and spices and seeds; mix well.
4. Add oats, nuts and fruit; mix well.

Freeze the dough wrapped in 2 X 8 inch rolls of waxed paper. Place rolls in plastic freezer bags. To bake heat oven to 350 degrees F. Slice thin slices of frozen dough and place on un-greased cookie sheet. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet and then remove to serving plate. Don't eat more than 5 or six at a time. Freezing the cookie dough helps you control yourself. And who has time to stand around cooking several dozen cookies at a time anyway? Here's to your health and your pleasure.

Go Camping!

Do you remember your first camping trip? Unless you were very young, I bet you can remember most everything about it. They may not all be fond memories, but it's the fact that you remember it. Are you smiling right now? Want to make a memory? Take your kids camping!

The rougher your camping trip is, the more memories you're going to make; but don't plan to make it rough. That will happen without any help; and just so you know, nobody will like this memory making while it's happening. It takes a few months, or years, but one day when you're sitting around talking about it, you're going to remember it wasn't all bad.

A Few Camping Tips

If you take air mattresses, take something to blow them up with. Do you know how hard it is to blow one up with your own breath? I thought I was going to die! And those tents that claim they almost put themselves together, they don't! Of course it would've helped if the instructions were in the box with the rest of the tent. With everything being cloth like and the poles fitting together, how was I supposed to know I was going to need a hammer for the spikes?

As for the food, make sure you know who's in charge of bringing it. Just in case, you may want to stick a few snacks in your pockets. Watch how you pack the food you do have. The ice does melt quicker in those coolers than you think, and if some foods are not properly sealed... well... the hot dogs were fine. We ate them right off the stick we used to hold them over the open fire.

Plan on getting up early to go fishing? Well, there's not much of a choice. If you hear noises in the night, remember there can be small critters out there; so if you forget to safely put away your bait, you may get to see a raccoon just pick up your bait box and run away with it. Don't bother yelling at him though; they don't listen very well. Get some sleep and don't worry, it gets better the second day.

Know About Income Tax Filing

Income tax filing should never be avoided, even if you expect a refund from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Most people steer away from filing returns due to the complicated and lengthy process. Some people are not even aware of the criteria that put them in the taxable bracket.

Income Tax Filing: Who is it for?

In the US, tax filing is essential for taxpayers broadly falling under the following four categories: 
Individuals who earn income from wages and investments
Small businesses and the self-employed
Large and mid-size businesses
Tax exempt charities and certain government entities 


Even if the law does not require you to, you should file your tax returns to get your money back in the following situations: 
Income tax was deducted from your pay
You are eligible for EIC (Earned Income Credit)
You meet the criteria for additional child tax credit

Things You Should Know about Income Tax Filing

Here are some things about filing that you should bear in mind: 
Ensure that you fill the right forms according to your circumstances. The easiest to fill income tax form is the 1040EZ, while the most complex one is the 1040. In specific situations, you may need other income tax forms. The forms usually mention restrictions, enabling you to identify which form to use for your particular circumstance. 
You can fill out the forms either on paper and mail them or file them electronically. The IRS has a website where you can file your taxes after obtaining a PIN number by giving your personal information. 
Know the possible deductions in order to lower your tax liability. They are of two types:


Standard deduction: This is when the IRS allows you to deduct a flat amount from your taxable income. It is filed on form 1040EZ.

Itemized deduction: If you have a large number of deductions, you can itemize them and fill out form 1040.

Vital Spiritual Key

Our life as a conscious being begins at birth with an inhalation and our life will end with our last exhalation. From cradle to the grave except in times of illness our breathing function does not let us down. Throughout the whole period of our life-span respiration will continue without a pause-its interminable rhythm keeping us supplied with oxygen, giving us life energy whether we are aware of it or not.

The majority of these breaths are taken unconsciously, with many being taken in the hours of sleep. But we expect that in sleep the breath will continue, and it does so. It is a potent reminder of the absolute faith that we place in nature and this natural process every time we go to sleep.

Respiration is so fundamental and dependable a physical process, that we are apt to take it for granted. We tend to overlook its importance, and the wonder of it. But specially, it is our breath we should recall, that allows us to speak, to sing, and to enjoy the gift of creative language allowing us to communicate our thoughts.

The yogis over many centuries of observation of human breathing have amassed valuable information about the breath in relation to all aspects of the human psyche with the aim to employ this knowledge in assisting those seeking to improve not only physical and psychological health but their spiritual life also.

Learning breath control produces physical results and psychological benefits beyond the most obvious one that maintains and even strengthens the hold we have on life, through the link between body and soul. Not only does conscious breathing increase body energy but deeper breathing, in particular, stimulates all our mental faculties and sharpens our spiritual awareness.

We will feel more vital and in better mental health if we remember that the greater capacity we have to breathe deeply, the more energy we will have - it is that simple.

Discover more about breathing for mental fitness! Your yoga teacher will help you.

Horoscope

Aries - (March 20 - April 19) It's about time you got that raise, Aries. I know you've been amazingly productive and agonizingly efficient; finally your well deserved bonus is set for delivery. Mars trine Pluto on the 4th holds a promise of financial opportunity. New horizons on the job come with a new set of responsibilities, however. Take them on in your best fashion - delegate. Really, that is part of your cosmic job description. You are a leader and an initiator; so it's ok to ask for and receive help in the detail department. Plus, travel may become a new part of your world. Again, ask for assistance; you need someone to help with all of the new demands which are entering into your realm. The New Moon of June 22nd brings substance to irrevocable changes. Move ahead with spiritual grace and all of your physical vitality.

Taurus - (April 20 - May 20) Hopefully you have cleaned out those closets and shredded the old papers; it's time for the NEW kid in town to debut. Old situations have simply served their purposes, and it's time to let them go. Not always easy for Taurus, I know. The secret to success lies in your ability to move ahead with joy and a sense of freedom. If everything in your life looks the same, it's time to do something wild and crazy. To make it easier, the stars are lending their grace of perfect timing this month. Release doubt and embrace motion. Strategic days to take action are June 8th, the 18th & 19th , and the 22nd & 23rd. The first quarter moon in Libra on the 29th is your time to check in on how you're doing on your new self-creation. The questions to ask are: are you having fun? And, have you made the necessary changes?

Gemini - (May 21 - June 20) I'll bet you're happy Mercury is direct this month! So, you cleaned up old stuff in May, and now you are clear and ready for action. The Universe supports your decision with a stellar sextile, the aspect of opportunity, from Venus to Jupiter on the 2nd. My insider secret - there was never a better month for networking, as friends and acquaintances serve to propel you along your career path. (One exception is if you were born May 28 or 29 - a friend may disappoint you) The Full Moon of June 7th highlights your 7th house of personal and business partnerships, too, so get out early and often. If you're looking for a new work situation, this is the perfect month to seal the deal, but not until the 23rd. Keep the news to yourself on the 26th, when everything you say comes out wrong; just stay home that day, or give yourself an early vacation. By the 30th, everybody is happy again.

Cancer - (June 21 - July 21) No doubt you feel as though you have given all that you can and it's time to renew yourself. If you can just shift into overdrive, and move into that space of efficiency while maintaining inner relaxation, you will be fine. I predict a culmination of the situation with the Full Moon of June 7th. This was a major phase of your karmic duty; one which you can look back upon and know that you did your best. The 18th and 19th are excellent days to unwind, find a secret cove by the sea and plan some cozy meals with someone who really understands you. The 22nd brings a New Moon in your sign, and this one brings a major new beginning. Tend to necessary business early in the week, because regardless of your best efforts to communicate, you will be misunderstood on the 26th. Your rewards are coming!

Leo - (July 22 - August 22) Your instincts are sharp now, Leo. This intuition, combined with your skills and knowledge can make you practically unstoppable. As the revered asteroid goddess Pallas Athena finally moves into your sign, it's time to put that long held dream into action. One of her teachings is that of creating practical gifts which serve others; things like pottery, weaving, and finalizing your web site which offers easy access to purchases. Then, you really harvest her gifts. This month is more of a time for behind the scenes work, however. The New Moon of June 22 initiates your solar 12th house of solitude and service, and the eclipses of July will open a door to plans gone awry. Preparation serves you well now; get ready for a late August debut.

Virgo - (August 23 - September 22) Being co-ruled by Mercury and the modern asteroid Chiron, your sign is one of delicate balance. You must be discriminating because if you are not, clarity leaves and chaos reigns. Some questions simply remain unanswered now, and antagonizing your mind for an answer is counterproductive. Instead, try deep relaxation on a moment to moment basis; when you feel that inner rubber band tighten up - breathe, and let go. That way, you can take advantage of the good things coming your way this month! On June 4th, Mars and Pluto give you intensity and drive, and on the 8th, Venus helps you shine in a big way. With both Mars and Venus in Taurus, earth signs have the blessings of flow and constancy right now. It's just that sometimes we don't know a good thing when we have it. Relax, get some Bach Flower Rescue Remedy, and get ready to rock -n- roll.

Libra - (September 23 - October 21) Falling off a log is easy, but wading out of the water is not so much fun. Have you been sleeping, Libra? The waves have been slapping a gentle rhythm on your hull, keeping in time with the mermaid's song. It all looks so good on paper, but what about the elbow grease required to power the monkey wrench. Darn, I hate it when that happens. Hold a steady course. These setbacks are only temporary, and you are learning more and more about how to set sail and chart your course to freedom. Your vision is pure. Pay attention on the 17th when you are presented with a stellar partnership opportunity which solidifies by the 30th. One shining light of the upcoming New Age is that you will never again walk alone, unless it is by choice.

Scorpio - (October 22 - November 21) Put it together, Scorpio - put IT together. Somebody is waiting for your input. Like the mythological Jason on his quest for the Golden Fleece, you have met with tests and challenges. However, you have also had divine intervention and assistance, especially when you remembered to ask for it. And, like Jason, you can benefit from good practical advice. Unfortunately, Jason died alone, a victim of his own disloyalty to the goddess Medea. As we move into a rectification of heaven and earth, please consider that the old stories no longer apply. A test of loyalty is just that - a test. And I know you can pass it with flying colors. Your most powerful detractor is your own self doubt; and your desire for a private life. Soon, you will have your cake, and you can eat it too!

Sagittarius - (November 22- December 20) Does it seem that these are the best and worst of times, and often in the same day? So much of this boils down to facts and figures, and I have a nagging feeling that you are not getting the whole story. When you look closely, you will find that what is missing provides as much information as the details which are presented. Saturn deals the winning hand here; this translates into holding the course and building upon what you have already established. This is NOT a good month for long distance travel, either. Thankfully, it looks like your wanderlust is under control right now. Sometimes the KISS solution is the most obvious; this is one of those times.

Capricorn - (December 21 - January 19) Wouldn't it be great if we could just buy our own printing presses and manufacture money? The right idea which helps you earn necessary money has come to fruition; this is centered in a past lifetime skill which you have already mastered and are now ready to bring forth as a contribution to your prosperity. And, currency is only a part of the picture. As you play your cards, you create something slightly different - how about a bartering empire? The 8th, 9th, and 10th, when the Moon is in your sign this month, are good days to put your plans to paper. I see you moving off the 'grid' and into self sufficiency; leaning more on trades and goods and moving away from just cash. This shift is not just for you. It also serves others, yet the beauty of this is that it deepens your own skills and abilities.

Aquarius - (January 20 - February 17) With Jupiter and Neptune dancing together in your sign, the past few months have no doubt brought on some roller coaster rides. Together, apart, and back again; some great days, and some - not so good ones. Neptune is a difficult planet, especially for you, a sign ruled in ancient astrology by structured and predictable Saturn. With Jupiter in the mix, you want to do your best. Things are going good, and then damn, there comes the x-factor, and your efforts evaporate. Practice your new level of authority on the 11th when unruly factions rise up; they really just need strong leadership. Consider taking on the role of high priest or priestess. You must transcend your logical mind with its perceived limitations to deepen your mantle of power. And, this is core spiritual work, not just donning a robe and scepter.

Pisces - (February 18 - March 19) Just a little bit of strategic planning goes a long way now, Pisces. The pieces will fit together like a grand puzzle if you only participate in the play, and you receive a major portion on the 13th. You can take the role either of a game master, or an innocent bystander. The bystander is at the mercy of the whims of others; the master makes his or her moves in fitting fashion. Some people master these maneuvers early in life, however, self destructive tendencies still keep them returning to bystander mode. The core issue is your readiness to move into new levels of power and self acceptance. And, the problem is that there is really nowhere else to go; it's either up or down because this moving sideways has run its course. Your creativity peaks on the 22nd; make it real on the 23rd.

Write For the Web

Having a visually arresting, well-designed website is ultimately of no use if the product its promoting isn't selling - and one of the most common causes of low sales for a web-based business is badly written text (or 'copy' as its known in the industry).

This article will give you a few valuable pointers to enable you to write effective copy, and thus enhance your sales success.

Go Au Naturel

The most important thing is to be natural and sincere. If you don't sound as if you have faith in your product, how can you expect your customers to believe in it? Avoid the following: cliches; corporate speak; excessive punctuation; fancy words; and long sentences.

Location, Location, Location

Remember where you are - you're on the internet. This means potential customers will be likely to come to your site through a search engine - so make sure popular search terms are included in the copy. If you're an on-line bakery, it's no good if you don't mention bread, but you'd be surprised by how many businesses make this sort of mistake.

Waffles are for Breakfast, Not Websites

Get to the point. Nobody has hours to waste reading extremely lengthy, waffling copy. Your customers want a relevant, sharp account of what you do, why they should invest in it, and how they do that. Some background detail is fine, but make sure it always leads directly back to the product or service being offered. Remember, the essential purpose of your business is to sell, and copy that isn't making you money is bad copy. So if you want to mention qualifying in grade 8 on the flute, you can - just make sure you emphasise why this is relevant to your service, and how it's going to benefit your customers.

Know-It-Alls

Another frequent error new businesses make is assuming their customers have the same level of specialised knowledge or interest they do - so it's crucial to remember that they may not. Businesses are typically so deeply invested in what they do, that they find it difficult to take an outside perspective. Remember that your website is trying to sell a product - not conduct an in-depth corporate analysis - and keep this at the forefront of your mind when writing copy.

How to Set Up a Basic Wireless Network

If you are new to the computer world and want to get more out of your computer experience by learning how to build a wireless network within your home, then here are a few steps you need in order to get started.

A Wireless network is a network that uses radio waves to communicate via your home wireless router. When we talk about radio waves we are speaking about signals that transmit to and from your router so that you can view the internet from anywhere in your home without using a cable. In a home network signal travel through your cable line, small satellite dish or telephone line from your internet service provider through your modem (switch), which is subsequently connected to your computer to provide you internet access.

Before wireless we connected to the internet through a large area network cable (LAN) from the back of our modem to our computer. We also connected and some still use this method today, to the internet through dial-up, which of course is the least expensive method of connecting to the internet. Dial-up is the method by which you plug your phone line directly into your computer and connect to the internet through an ISP such as AOL. Which ever method you use, the downfall with using a wired network is that you computer or laptop will have to remain in the same location that the cable is located in order for you to connect to the internet unless you get smart and purchase a 10 foot cable or phone line, which in this case will cause a huge mess in your home.

With a wireless network, it is not messy at all as you connect to internet through radio waves that are transmitted throughout your home from your router. To build a wireless network all you need is internet service in your home, a wireless router, a modem from your ISP, wireless LAN cards for every additional computer or laptop in your home. If you have a laptop, then the wireless LAN cards look like credit cards and for wireless LAN cards for your computer, they are card like with an antenna sticking out of them.

Now that you have your equipment, the first thing you do is connect your computer to the router and the modem to the router, Before, your modem was connected directly to the computer, but in order to do wireless, everything will need to connect directly to the router. The modem will be connected to the internet port on the router and the computer will be connected to one of the ports on the router other than the internet port normally port one.

If you need assistance in setting up the router as you will need to make some minor adjustments with your router such as closing off your port so that you are not providing internet access to everyone in the neighborhood as I have seen this happen far too often. Your router comes with a manual that shows you how to set-up the router for your wireless network so follow the steps given in the manual.

Five crucial formulas in Website Design

Five crucial formulas in Website Design


Once it bears on your website, additional attending ought be paid to every minute detail to be sure it executes optimally to serve its purpose. Here are 7 significant rules of thumb to observe to make sure your website performs well. 

1) don't use splash pages

Splash pages are the first pages you see when you arrive at a website. They normally have a very beautiful image with words like "welcome" or "click hither to enter". As a matter of fact, it is just that -- pretty vases with no real purpose. Do not let your visitors have a reason to click on the "back" button! Afford them the value of your site up front without the splash page.

2) don't use excessive banner advertisements

Regular the to the lowest degree net comprehend people have trained themselves to ignore banner advertisements so you will be wasting valuable internet site real estate. Instead, provide more valueable articles and weave relevant affiliate links into your content, and let your visitors feel that they prefer to buy rather than being pushed to buy. 

3) bear a simple and clear up navigation
You've to provide a simple and very straightforward navigation menu so that even a young child will know how to use it. Stay away from complicated Flash established menus or multi-tiered dropdown menus. If your visitors don't know how to navigate, they will leave your site. 

4) accept a clear indication of where the user is

Once visitors are deeply engrossed in browsing your site, you will want to make sure they know which part of the site they are in at that moment. That way, they will be able to browse relevant information or navigate to any section of the site easily. Don't confuse your visitors because confusion thinks of "abandon ship"!

5) keep off using audio on your site

Whenever your visitor is going to stay a long time at your site, interpreting your content, you will want to make sure they're not annoyed by some audio curling on and on on your website. If you insist on adding audio, make sure they've some control over it -- volume or muting controls would form all right. 

Don't Spend All Your Time Lounging by the Pool

As any keen cyclist will tell you, not having a chance to go for a spin for a week or two while on holiday can be just too much. Well, why not take your bike with you. Taking your cycle on the back of your car is easy, and with the latest cycle carriers your bike will sit securely on the back, or the top of your car.

Cycling - the only way to travel

When you're keen on cycling, and get withdrawal symptoms if you are kept out of the saddle for more than 2 days, having your bike on holiday is like having your piece of paradise. No more arguing about who'll nip out in the car to collect morning papers, because that chore just became a pleasure. You can pop the local shop, or maybe the shop in the next village, or maybe even the village after that, you can always blame the shop for not having the paper you wanted.

Discover the countryside on two wheels

All those new back roads to discover and scenery to admire - there's no better way to explore your holiday surroundings than by cycle. With a two wheeled jaunt you can take time to enjoy the countryside and the peace and quiet, and of course you're not sending clouds on exhaust fumes into the environment.

Don't want to take your bike - hire one at your holiday park

Many holiday parks hire cycles too, so the whole family can go out there and explore the area. The range of two wheeled accessories is astounding - trailer bikes and carts which you can tow behind your bike so every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, can enjoy fun. Take a picnic and have a fantastic day out, at minimal cost, and you're not getting caught in any traffic jams.