The Identity Theft Resource Center Guide-Free Articles

If you are searching for information on identity theft, there are a couple of different places that you can begin to search. But if you are interested in the most comprehensive and accurate information that is available, you will want to check out the resources that are made available by the Identity Theft Resource Center.


The Identity Theft Resource Center, also known as the ITRC, is a non-profit program that is dedicated to identity theft. This center provides consumers the information that they will need if they have been affected by identity theft. In addition, the Identity Theft Resource Center also advises government agencies and other organizations about this ever growing problem that affects thousands of people ever year.



The Identity Theft Resource Center is located in San Diego, California and has been around since 1999. It was started by Linda Foley after her past employer used her tax forms to secure credit cards and cell phones in her name. Back in 1999, there was little information available on identity theft, so Linda decided to come up with a non-profit group that will inform people about every aspect of this every growing problem.


By visiting the Identity Theft Resource Center online you will be able to get useful information involving this problem. Not only is this site a great place for people who have already been affected, it can also be very useful to people that simply want to stay safe. There are hundreds of different resources available by contacting the Identity Theft Resource Center.


Overall, the Identity Theft Resource Center is a leader as far as awareness is concerned. If you are searching for any type of information on identity theft, you will want to check out the site located at www.idtheftcenter.org. It will allow you to become armed with all of the information that you need.

Should you Pay for Identity Theft Protection?-Free Articles

Hand in hand with the growing problem of identity theft are the businesses that spring up surrounding the phenomenon. At times they may be selling tangible goods that will serve to safeguard your personal information.


At other times they offer something akin to an insurance policy that will fiscally reimburse you if any of your personal information is misused and you suffer loss as a result. Should you pay for identity theft protection such as this or is that overkill?


When it comes to identity theft, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Even as this adage will go with virtually any wrong and problem, it does especially ring true when it comes to your personal information.


Purchasing a locking rural mailbox and replacing your tried and true regular mailbox is the kind of identity theft protection that is well worth the money.


Shredders and computer firewalls, virus programs, and spyware protection software are all part and parcel of the kind of identity theft protection that is worth every penny.


On the other hand, the kind of programs that will offer insurance or reimbursement in case of identity theft need to be eyed with suspicion; in some cases these services will do little more than cause a notation to be put on your credit report that warns the agency against letting others see the file without written authorization by you.


This you can accomplish yourself within minutes and without having to pay for. Services that offer this kind of service as a major selling point are simply trying to capitalize on the misfortunes of others and it is a shame that they sell their wares as identity theft.


Other services that will offer bona fide remuneration in case of identity theft may be considered legitimate insurance policies, but it still is highly recommended that you understand the limitations before you sign up.

Seven Simple Steps To Identity Theft Prevention-Free Articles

Identity theft is real and it affects nine million Americans each year. We have to keep ourselves safe when we are surfing the Internet, speaking to a business over the phone and cautious of what we place in our trash.


The dangers of identity theft are all around us. As we grow in understanding of these dangers we have to take steps to prevent ourselves from becoming a victim. You can do this with seven simple steps. Try what works for you and build up to all seven for the ultimate in identity theft protection.


1.Protect your personal information by not providing anyone information online or over the phone.


2.Purchase a good paper shredder and destroy any paper documents, credit cards, etc. that may put your identity at risk when placed in the trash bin.


3.Keep personal documents in a locked file cabinet or a safe. Even the babysitter could be a potential identity thief.


4.Consider a locking mailbox. A lock keeps prying hands out and your mail in.


5.Keep high-risk documents at home. Social security cards, birth certificates and like documents should be kept under lock and key.


6.Password security. When creating passwords do not use birth-dates, nicknames, pet names or other familiar words as passwords. These are too easy to guess and put you at risk. Make a combination of letters and numbers for safety.


7.Try online billing for added protection. Cancel paper bills. This is good as a safety measure and good for the planet.


Try a few of these steps or try them all to keep yourself and your good name safe and sound.


Remember, the most important thing is to never provide your phone number, bank account or social security number online.


This is far too big of a risk for identity theft. Unfortunately there are hackers and scam artists who are waiting for personal information to come across the screen.

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Gift Baskets That You Make Yourself

The gift-giving season has many people scrambling to find the perfect gifts and presents for their loved ones, relatives, friends, business contacts, bosses, co-workers, employees, as well as for everyone else on the long list of people that presents have to be purchased for. Unfortunately the whole process of buying gifts when it comes to finding the right one is not always easy. There are some gifts that may be too expensive, too cheap, to gaudy, or to awkward to give that you may not know what to get at all. However, one gift that is always given every season by many people all over the globe is gift baskets.

On the other hand, there are still some gift baskets that may not be right for just everyone. Even though there are a plethora of gift basket companies on the market today that traditionally have their gift baskets setting out in grocery and retail stores across the nation, some of the so-called gifts that are included may be just a little weird to give to someone on your list. For this reason many people actually choose do-it-yourself gift baskets. These are the gift baskets that you can choose everything from the type of basket you give to what gifts are included with the gift.

When it comes to purchasing the actual gift basket part of the present there are hundreds of styles to choose from in boutique shops and retail stores in shopping malls and other places that you regularly go to. Of course another obvious option that you may have is to make your own gift basket. There are plenty of instructions for making your own gift basket that can be found online, and the directions range from the different types of material that is used all the way to creating unique shapes for the gift baskets as well!

After you've purchased the actual basket or made the basket it is then time to turn your attention towards filling it with gifts that are perfect for the person on your list to buy for. The gifts that go inside a gift basket don't have to be all that expensive at all either, which makes purchasing them all the more easier! A couple examples, though, of the gifts you may want to include in your do-it-yourself gift basket are gift cards, coffees, soaps, air fresheners, candies, accessories, as well as a variety of other smaller gifts that can be easily purchased in a retail department store!

Of course putting the finishing touches on the do-it-yourself gift basket is also good so that a bit of personality and style can be added to it, and even a colorful gift tag can be attached to the outside of the basket as well. But chances are that after you've finished the gift baskets for your friends, family, co-workers, employers, and other people on your list and have carefully chosen each gift inside the basket yourself then they will love everything that they receive!

Gift Basket Websites

When creating your gift basket business chances are that you'll be advertising it to family and friends first so that they can easily spread the word along to their other family members and friends as well. However, one thing that many people and gift basket businesses don't think about, though, is creating a website to go along with their basket business. But in today's modern society one can hardly ever get along in the business world without first having a legitimate website to identify itself with. A website will not only add spunk to the creative gift basket business, but it will also give it some sort of personality that can be great for any business if it's hoping to attract customers.

The first thing that you'll want to do when designing your gift basket business website is to have everything neatly laid out on your website so that your customers and potential buyers will be able to see everything you have to offer. This includes making categories, making sure that the product information is accurate, as well as including pictures so that everyone can see what you’re selling. In addition, if you are going to allow custom gift baskets to be ordered from a variety of different products then there also should be a separate website section for that!

Another issue that you'll want to have clarified on your website is the ordering process. As with any business the ordering process should be smooth and easy. This is obviously very simple to do when creating your business in the offline world, but in the online world there needs to be much more thought put into it, especially if you want your gift basket business to succeed. There should be at least several large buttons that read "Order Here" or something else to that effect so that your visitors will be able to tell where the ordering form is.

Perhaps another creative idea for designing your gift basket business website is to give your customers interesting content to read. For example, if you have a sports gift basket business then your website could possibly include some updates on the latest football, basketball, or baseball games. In addition, if gourmet chocolate gift baskets are being sold then having a couple articles devoted to the history of chocolate and the many different varieties of gourmet chocolate may not be a bad idea.

Of course one issue that perhaps lies underneath everything else that was described above is the actual website design itself. There are many businesses that may just have a plain white background, but on the World Wide Web it has been said that businesses only have a matter of seconds to hold and keep their customers' attention. Adding relevant images, pictures, and patterns to your website is a great idea!

All of these things are important, though, if one is going to succeed in the online world with their gift basket business. Having an organized site, as well as making sure there are interesting designs and content to look at and read are all very important to your business!

Family and Friends always Appreciate Receiving Gift Baskets

There are all sorts of gifts for your family and friends that may seem like the "right" gift, but there are some times throughout your life that you may just pass up on practically everything that you see because nothing seems right or like the perfect gift for the person you are buying. There are all sorts of reasons why you may be hesitating to buy a gift for your family member's graduation or your friend's Halloween party. But being in a difficult spot shouldn't hinder you at all from eventually picking up the right gift. One route that many people take in their lives is to buy gift baskets for their family and friends no matter what occasion it is. From Halloween to special events to wedding parties, gift baskets can be filled with a range of gifts that are perfect for any occasion.

Family Gift Baskets

A gift basket for your family member is considerably a lot different than gift baskets for your friends. However, some of the same gifts could be used for each, but the reason for saying that was to make note of the fact that your family's gift baskets should definitely be more personal than the ones for your other friends simply because they're your family and they usually deserve something extra special. For this reason, though, there are a plethora of family gift basket ideas, such as including pictures of family events, decorating the gift basket with shared memorabilia, as well as including things in the gift basket that would only be remembered by you and the other family member. Chances are that if you have this good of a relationship with your other family members then you won't even be purchasing a gift basket, but nevertheless these are some great ideas for a family member gift basket!

Gift Baskets for Friends

On the other hand, chances are that the gift baskets for your friends will take on a whole different meaning. Think about the times, though, that you've tried to find the perfect gift (other than a gift basket) for one of your friends. If they are a relatively new friend or acquaintance then chances are that you might not know enough about the person to get them what they truly want, which is another reason that should be added to the list of why gift baskets are good ideas! They truly offer an in-between style present for the person you are buying it for. If this is going to be for your friend, though, you may want to include some small gifts that you think they'd like, but also include some others that you may not be too sure about just to be on the safe side!

All things considered, creating a gift basket for your family, friends, and acquaintances doesn't have to be that difficult at all. However, it only takes a little bit of time and consideration before packing it all together to think about what type of gifts you'll be including. Whether you'll be including large gifts, like reading books or small electronic gadgets, or smaller gifts like electronic accessories or other type of small gifts is really dependent upon your relationship with the other person. All in all, though, making sure you have the right gifts in a gift basket is very important!

Drinking Mocha Espresso Chilled

The espresso beverage is one coffee drink that can be used for cold drinks, warm coffee drinks, as well as plenty of other food items. There are all sorts of ways to use espresso that it may seem like no one will ever run out of ideas. However, one important recipe that many people use when drinking their espresso is to create a Chilled Mocha Espresso. There are plenty of ways to turn espresso into another fantastic product other than what it started out as and a Chilled Mocha Espresso is just one way in which individuals can create their own version of their favorite coffee beverage!

What is a Mocha?

On the one hand you may be excited about getting to try something new and the Mocha coffee beverage may be just right up your alley. On the other hand, you may be apprehensive about turning the coffee drink into something you are unsure about and don't know what to expect from it. All in all, though, rest assured that with a Mocha drink you will be able to taste the espresso very much! This leads us to the burning question, though, of what really is a Mocha. A Mocha beverage is consumed in virtually every part of the world that an espresso is, but all a Mocha beverage is, however, is an espresso with a bit of chocolate syrup or other chocolate topping added to the base of the espresso. Even though it might seem like the espresso by itself is a sweet drink, there may be some others who want to try to sweeten it up even more!

Now that you know exactly what a mocha is then it's time to not only try the mocha beverage but also to make a Chilled Mocha Espresso. What this all entails, however, is spreading the Mocha over ice in order for the beverage to get cold. Many coffee shops and restaurants already sell the Chilled Mocha Espresso, but one good thing about learning what a Mocha actually is, though, is that you will be able to make the beverage yourself! In fact, many people actually prefer to make the mocha by him or her self before actually trying to beverage out in public just to see if they like it or not. Chances are, though, that a regular espresso drinker would naturally love the addition of chocolate to his or her espresso, which is basically what the whole Chilled Mocha Espresso is all about!

Of course after the Chilled Mocha Espresso is made then you can also move on to bigger and better beverages. This can be done by adding ingredients to the already Chilled Mocha Espresso, but it can also be done by pouring the chilled beverage into another drink to make the perfect espresso variety! As you probably already know there are more espresso varieties to go around then there are espresso cups in the world, but those who regularly drink espresso are probably glad for all of this, especially the Chilled Mocha Espresso!

Comparing Different Caffeine Fixes with Espresso

There is a great probability that you have heard the rumor that an espresso shot is filled to the brim with caffeine that many people are simply referring to the beverage as "caffeine shots." However, have you ever wanted to find out the truth about espresso and how much caffeine it contains? Is there any such thing as caffeine-free espresso, a term primarily used for "decaf" coffee? How unhealthy for you is espresso, really? And if espresso is so unhealthy then why hasn't it been taken off the market? All of these are great questions that could come from an espresso addict, coffee addict, or just someone else who would like to know more about the myths surrounding espresso shots. One thing is for sure, though, and that espresso shots are definitely not as unhealthy for you as alcohol shots are.

But the whole problem surrounding espresso, for many people anyway, is the fact that they've continuously heard that espresso contains so much more caffeine than other beverages that it is deemed almost dangerous to consume. However, this is a myth and simply isn't true! Even though espresso does contain quite a lot of caffeine in one shot, here is how it stacks up to other popular beverages:

Espresso Versus Coffee

There are many things to consider when comparing the amount of caffeine in an espresso shot as compared to a cup of coffee considering the fact that there are so many varieties of espresso as their are coffee. For this comparison purpose, though, the term "espresso" means one plain shot of espresso that has no extra flavor of frills, and "coffee" means a regular black cup of Joe that many people wake up to in the morning. That being said, you may be surprised to find this out but a regular black cup of coffee actually has more caffeine that one shot of espresso. It's true that espresso does contain more milligrams of caffeine per ounce, but espresso shots are typically only consumed in 1-ounce shot glasses. Espresso contains about 50 milligrams of caffeine per ounce and coffee contains around 20 milligrams in an average full cup. However, many people only usually consume one shot of espresso at a time, whereas others can consume multiple cups of coffee throughout their morning!

Espresso Versus Coca-Cola

So what would be the better choice: having a can of Coca-Cola in the mornings to get your kick start or continuing with your espresso routine? As mentioned above, espresso shots usually contain about 50 milligrams per 1-ounce shot glass. On the other hand, a 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola usually contains only about 35 milligrams of caffeine. It is obvious then which beverage is less harmful, although if you truly want a kick-start in the morning then the espresso shot would be the way to go!

Altogether, as you can see an espresso shot really is not all that much more harmful to you than a can of soda pop or even a regular cup of coffee. In the whole scheme of things one can probably say that espresso is about average when it comes to the amount of caffeine in a single serving, but now you know just how espresso shots stack up!

Cappuccino versus Expresso

Being a coffee and caffeine addict, as many people claim themselves to be, often involves drinking many types of coffee products, such as espresso, cappuccino, regular coffee, as well as many other forms of the drink itself. However, one aspect of coffee that many people mistakenly get wrong is the fact that they think espresso and cappuccino are the same exact drink when in fact they are not. Even though espresso and cappuccino may look like the same drink and may be considered the same by the average coffee drinker, for true espresso fans espresso is a totally different drink altogether! Here are some of the main differences between the two drinks and perhaps some reasons why many people prefer one over the other:

Cappuccino is Generic

Perhaps one of the reasons that many people consider cappuccino to be an espresso drink is because cappuccino has traditionally been a coffee drink that has had some espresso in it. Even though cappuccino is more of a regular coffee consistency the first form of cappuccino was made partly from espresso. Nevertheless, though, since cappuccino isn't 100% espresso then they naturally have very different tastes. On the other hand many people who dislike regular espresso will often turn to cappuccino for a spruced up version of many of the coffee brands that they drink! For this reasons, though, some individuals may refer to cappuccino as a generic form of espresso considering the fact that it has much less espresso than the real thing!

Espresso Characteristics

When trying to distinguish between cappuccino and espresso perhaps the most defining characteristic of espresso is the fact that the drink is much thicker than its cappuccino or coffee counterpart! Much of this is due to the fact that espresso has to be made from an espresso machine whereas coffee and other types of cappuccino can either be handmade or placed in a coffee percolator that will give them the desired result. Perhaps, however, this is one way that many people are able to distinguish between espresso and virtually every other type of coffee anyway. Espresso machines are typically depicted as large machines that have many parts to it, but there is a long process that the espresso goes through in order to be just right for the person drinking it!

Cappuccino and Espresso Lovers

What are some of the reasons, though, that espresso may be liked over cappuccino or vice versa? One of the reasons that many people like cappuccino is because it is less thick than regular espresso. Many people's stomachs may not be able to handle all types of espresso, which is the reason that cappuccino may be more readily available in restaurants and other coffee shops than espresso is.

Altogether, though, it's important to realize that there indeed is a difference between the two coffee drinks. Espresso and cappuccino are two very different drinks in nature and have very different defining characteristics, as well as attract two different types of coffee drinkers as well!

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Buying Your Next Vehicle At The Auto Auction

Everyone loves to save money especially when buying a car so that means that the government auto auctions of seized vehicles is always popular wherever they are held. At the auto auctions you can always find a great deal on a quality vehicle that was seized in a government raid or somehow came into the possession of the federal government. Most people prefer to go to the auto auctions to place their bids but the sites for the auto auctions are scattered all over the country so sometimes logistics do not allow for the people that want to be at an auto auction to actually be there. That is why the government allows options such as Internet access to bidding or even the option of mailing your sealed bid for a vehicle in to the auction in the hopes that your bid will win.

These government auctions are a little different than the standard bank auctions because the government auctions are for seized vehicles that could have some cosmetic damage to them. The government is trying to get rid of the vehicles so that they do not take up any space in a government parking facility and so that they do not begin to require any upkeep by the government. All the government is trying to do is make a few dollars from the property they seized and then make sure that property finds its way to its new owners. In this way the government auto auction may be a better option than the bank option because, unlike the bank, the government will take any bid they can get.

It’s Not All Bad Guys

A lot of the vehicles sold in a government auto auction are vehicles that the government has used for years and now wants to get rid of to make way for new vehicles coming in. Since the United States government is not always the best at watching their spending budget it is not inconceivable that you could be bidding on a recent model pick up truck and get it for pennies on the dollar. The government uses a variety of civilian vehicles and when the time comes to replace those vehicles they will put the used ones up for auction rather than set up any type of reselling network to maximize their profits. You can take advantage of this and get yourself a fine used car from the federal government for a rock bottom price.

Sometimes the government offers military vehicles at their online auto auction, but don’t think you will be getting a fully armed tank because you won’t. Many of the combat vehicles are either kept or sold through other channels but sometimes the government will offer jeeps and other lower end vehicles for the general public to bid on.

Creative Investing and Financing Techniques

Everyone knows investing in real estate is one of the most effective ways to accumulate wealth quickly, especially when it comes down to not needing a lot of capital to do so. However, this all depends on how creative you are. Traditional real estate investing by definition involves the purchase, ownership, management, rental and/or sale of real estate for profit. Under this definition, real estate is an asset form with limited liquidity relative to other investments, and traditionally is highly dependent on cash flow, but when we look at creative ways of investing in real estate a lot more opportunities are open to us.


So what are some creative ways to obtain financing? There are many but here are some of the most popular to list a few:


Partnerships are fairly common because this is first thing a lot of real estate investors think about doing when they start out. They want to find somebody who can put up the money and split the deal with them fifty-fifty. This is an option but there are better ways to make a lot more.


Hard Money Lenders are individuals or companies that have cash ready for you to borrow. This is usually a much better alternative than traditional banks since it is a good source for getting funds quickly even if you have a low credit score. Many hard money lenders don’t like to lend more than 65% of the fair market value of a real estate property, so the better the deal, the more options you’ll have.


Private Lenders can be an even better alternative to hard money lenders because you can often arrange better terms since you are dealing with someone privately. Remember, a private lender can be anyone even friends or family. Everybody wins because you are offering them a much better rate of return than they will get in their savings or mutual funds and it’s secured by real estate.


“Subject to” Financing comes from the clause “subject to existing financing”. With this strategy you are leaving the existing financing in place and just taking over the payments on the sellers existing mortgage. Your name is not going on the loan. It will stay in the seller’s name. There are other ways to do similar seller financing as well. This is an excellent strategy for those who have poor credit to begin investing quickly.


Wholesaling or Flippingare specific real estate investing strategies that are essentially creative solutions to eliminate the need for obtaining any funds at all. This is where you tie up a property at a discount (using an agreement) and then flip the property to another buyer or real estate investor for a quick profit. Because of this, it’s virtually risk free, there is no need for excessive cash, credit or financing, and you do no repairs or work yourself. This is why when it comes to making quick cash in real estate, this method of wholesaling real estate is one the best routes to take not only for avoiding many of the financing headaches, it allows you to make cash more quickly for today's real estate market. I would encourage you to look at as many options as possible, then compare the terms of each. This way you'll know what will work best for your individual circumstances.

Creating a Profitable Investment Team

Once you start building your business, finding opportunities and potential investments, you're going to realize you can't do it all on your own.


One of the biggest traps beginning investors fall into is that they try and do everything themselves. They think they will just get one deal done to make some money then build an investment team. Unfortunately, what usually happens is they get stuck trying to learn and do everything in a limited amount of time, then get discouraged by either getting no results, getting scammed or burned from doing it wrong then eventually giving up.


It is important to understand you need to work smarter not harder. This is the only way to run a successful investment and real estate investing business. Not only will this make it more profitable but also more enjoyable!


Though you will not need everyone for investment strategy you are focusing on, here are the top ten you should establish relationships with when you are starting out (in no particular order):


1. Home Inspectors
2. Insurance Agents
3. Mentors
4. Mortgage Brokers
5. Property Management Companies
6. Real Estate Agents
7. Real Estate Appraisers
8. Real Estate Attorneys
9. Rehab Crews
10. Title Companies


When putting together your investment team, here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Make sure you work with those that have experience working with investors similar to yourself. For example, a real estate agent that primarily works with clients buying apartments when you are flipping or wholesaling single family homes will probably not be a good fit.
2. Make sure they have experience working in the area where you are investing.
3. They should have at least 2-3 years of full time experience in the area you are hiring them for.
4. Don't depend on just one in each category. For example, having 2-3 agents, brokers and inspectors will give you more flexibility, a larger network of contacts, and more competitive options for different investing circumstances.
5. Always ask for referrals so you can expand your team using the best people.



The bottom line is: The more you utilize the expertise of those around you, the more lucrative and *easier* your business will be. Period. So whether you choose long term buy and hold strategies or quick cash strategies like wholesaling real estate, you will be well on your way to achieve the fastest and most aggressive results possible. Remember to work

Being Creative - No Money Down Investing Strategies

There are a lot of books and programs that talk about doing real estate with "no money down", but it is important to understand what they are talking about here. If someone says nothing down strategies don’t work, it just means they don’t understand what nothing down means or how to do it.


The term “no money down” doesn’t mean “no money is transacted”, it just means that someone else’s money is transacted. It doesn’t come out of your pocket, piggy bank, or savings account.


In fact, people without a lot of personal cash or savings are sometimes better off because they have to approach the real estate investing business differently. They start off on the right foot to making money faster than those that use conventional methods such as a traditional bank loan and/or putting down a large chunk of their own money simply because they have to.


When you are starting out and don't have a lot of investment capital, you will want to target properties you can buy without having to get a loan in your own name. As a creative real estate investor you will want to look for motivated sellers so they are willing to work with you using creative financing methods so you don’t have to get a loan or put up a large down payment.


Sometimes having a lot of money is a detriment because those who aren’t forced to be creative miss out on creative real estate deals. Even if you have a lot of money start being creative. No matter how much you have, if you keep tying it up in real estate purchases you’ll eventually run out. This is why you will sometimes hear about seemingly successful investors that are "equity rich" but still "cash poor". They have all these assets on paper and are still living check to check.


In addition to creative ways of getting money there are many creative real estate strategies that are essentially no money down methods. Some examples are real estate assignments including flipping and wholesaling, Subject to arrangements, and certain lease options strategies.


Especially if you are starting out and don't have a lot to work with, one of the best ways to make quick cash is by learning to wholesale houses. This will allow you to eliminate a lot of inherent risks since none of your own money or credit is at risk and you never take ownership of property. With current real estate trends this is also one of the best routes to take and no matter how you define it, when done correctly it is a solid creative no money down real estate solution.

Locking Rural Mailboxes Can Keep You Safe From Identity Theft

The dangers of identity theft are real and the risk is great. You may become a victim simply by a person driving up to your mailbox and taking your mail. They then take your name and build a false life around it. They can apply for credit cards, loans and begin to make purchases all under your name.


When payments aren't made and credit concerns come to the forefront you begin to receive phone calls and you don't even know what these phone calls are about. This happens to thousands of people across the country but you don't have to be a victim.


You can protect yourself with a locking mailbox. You have seen the commercial mailboxes for office or apartment buildings. Each tenant has a key to his or her locked mailbox for security.


You to can have this same security. There are several models and styles available that offer a locking mailbox for your protection. You can find these mailboxes in a wide range online. There are even slots that can hold small boxes or packages for safekeeping.


The only way a person would be able to get to your mail would be through a break in and no criminal is going to risk being caught doing this as they can simply drive down the street and target a regular mailbox.


You may have to contact your postal service, as they may need to approve the mailbox. There may be ordinances that you may have to go up against as well, though this is not likely.


You can now have the peace of mind that if you go out of town and your mail is left inside your locking mailbox you are safe. Simply changing your mailbox type to a locking model can keep you from suffering the consequences of identity theft.

Let Solar Power Heat Your Home

In a temperate or cold climate, heating is usually the single most expensive factor in household fuel bills. Yet cold weather doesn't necessarily mean gloomy weather, and even when it's perpetually overcast, today's solar power devices can be surprisingly efficient.


Switching over to solar power could enable you to slash your monthly expenses at the same time as keeping your home warm and well supplied with hot water. It's easy to do, and it's good for the environment, too!


Today's solar power collectors are much more efficient than those of times past. They're also much more affordable. In most cases you'll have the option of installing them yourself, saving still more money, and you'll find them surprisingly easy to maintain.


Simple solar power panels can supply all the energy you need for household heating. What's more, you don't need to worry about the letting you down, because using them doesn't mean you have to be disconnected from the mains power grid. In an emergency you can always return to using traditional power for a while. If you're still using solar power as your main resource, you'll still be saving huge amounts of money.


Solar power is only just beginning to take off for domestic use because people are only just becoming aware of how much the technology has improved in recent years. Many people still don't realise that it's a practical option in northern climates.


The fact is that solar power can be an option even if you live in an apartment, with small solar panels available with can be fixed to walls or placed in windows. There's also a wide range of electronic devices which utilize solar power directly, so you can switch over to these even if you can't afford to switch to a full solar power system right away.


Using energy from the sun for heating is one of the oldest tricks known to man. solar power technology simply makes it more efficient. So don't let that energy go to waste - look into installing solar power in your home now.

Join the Solar Energy Revolution

Are you concerned about global warming? With severe weather events increasingly causing problems across the world, many people feel that governments aren't doing enough. But governments aren't the only ones that can make a difference. You, too, can do your bit - by joining the solar energy revolution.


Any true revolution in the way people live has to start with individuals, and the solar energy revolution is no exception. You probably already try to help the environment by recycling. You may think carefully about the ethical status of the products you buy, and you may try to avoid leaving electrical devices running at night.


All these things help, but why not go the whole way and start making the switch to solar energy? With solar energy, you can give many of your daily activities a carbon footprint of zero. For truly sustainable living, solar energy has to be the way forward.


Whilst we may petition governments and corporations to make more use of sustainable energy sources, the switch to solar energy can start at home. Unlike home windmills, solar energy devices are quiet and unobtrusive and won't annoy the neighbours. They can be installed bit by bit whenever you have some spare money, and they'll soon pay you back by cutting your fuel bills.


Solar energy can be backed up by energy from the regular power grid, so that you don't have to be able to afford enough at once to power everything in your house. This also means that it can be a practical option even if you live somewhere which doesn't get a lot of sun.


You won't need to worry about being left without power. What's more, modern solar energy devices are much more efficient that their predecessors and can generate power even at low light levels.


Switching to solar energy is the number one way for you to contribute to a better environment for everybody. Join the solar energy revolution and use your power for change.

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Asthma and Eczema

Doctors believe that the link between asthma and eczema is an inherited, genetic one. Sufferers tend to have common genes which result in the immune system reacting in an abnormal way. Both conditions can be triggered by an over-reaction to a particular allergen, such as house dust mites or cigarette smoke. The allergens over stimulate the body’s immune system, causing it to produce large quantities of an antibody called lgE. These antibodies bind themselves to the allergens and trigger the release of a number of potent chemicals. The result is an immediate reaction such as wheezing, coughing or those of eczema such as dry, peeling skin.

There is no doubt that asthma and eczema are shared care conditions – part patient, part doctor – and there is a lot you can do to relieve your own symptoms. Many sufferers are turning to alternative therapies to alleviate their symptoms but it is important to realize that conventional treatment should not be stopped suddenly and any new therapy should be discussed with your doctor. Asthma, and to a lesser extent eczema, are chronic conditions which need careful monitoring at regular intervals.

How complimentary therapies can help

Alternative therapies have been shown to help in the management of asthma and eczema but should be used alongside, rather than instead of, conventional drugs. Stress is high on the list of potential triggers, so any therapy that relaxes the body and the mind is worth trying. Eastern therapies which are based on the belief that blocked energy in our bodies’ causes illness and therefore aim to restore the flow of energy are also beneficial. Any therapy which encourages better breathing is excellent for people who suffer with asthma.

Autogenics

Autogenic training (AT) involves using mental exercises and focusing on key words designed to switch off the body’s “flight or fight” system. With your eyes closed you repeat a set of simple mental exercises which trigger feelings of warmth, relaxation and heaviness. As a result, your mind slips into a relaxed yet aware state similar to that achieved in meditation. Autogenics is usually taught in a series of 8 weekly lessons, but once you have mastered the technique you have a skill for life.

Qi Gong

Pronounced “Chee Gung”, this ancient eastern exercise can help relieve the stress that can trigger an asthma attack or eczema outbreak. The combination of movement, breathing techniques and meditation help relax the body and the mind. Qi Gong is a very gentle routine and although is doesn’t claim to get rid of asthma, it can equip the body to deal more effectively with triggers such as a surge in the pollen count or a rise in pollution on a hot day.
Qi Gong does require discipline – to gain the maximum benefit you have to practice on a regular basis, but it has been shown to have a high success rate in people with respiratory problems. It is best to find an experienced teacher to show you the basic moves, but after that you can practice them at home yourself.

Alexander technique

Many people with asthma tend to hunch their shoulders, which often makes the problem worse. The Alexander technique aims to improve your posture, teaching you how to stand and move properly, which will help clear the air ways and increase lung capacity.

Yoga

Asthma sufferers tend to have shallow, rapid breathing and yoga breathing and stretching postures can help deepen and release the breath and encourage relaxation. This, in turn, helps get rid of any tension which can trigger an attack.

Homeopathy

Based on the concept of treating “like with like”, homeopathy is a widely respected treatment for eczema, even amongst orthodox doctors. The treatment will depend on your individual symptoms and I would always recommend consulting a qualified homeopath.

Different types of eczema

There are three main types of eczema:

Atopic eczema – this is the most common type, affecting people with an inherited tendency towards allergies such as asthma and hay fever. It is characterized by dry, itchy skin and can be triggered by stress and certain environmental factors.

Allergic Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with something you are allergic to such as nickel, rubber, glue, certain cosmetics and some synthetic fabrics. The skin becomes red and itchy, and in some cases can blister and crust over.

Irritant Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with an irritating chemical such as a harsh detergent, disinfectant or solvent. The skin usually becomes dry, red, rough and itchy. Here at reiki healing spain we deal with these conditions every week.

Arthritis

There are several kinds of arthritis but the most common are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout. The symptoms for each condition are slightly different but they all result in pain and progressive immobility. Another common factor is that they all signify the body’s inability to eliminate toxins efficiently. There can be many different reasons as to why a person develops arthritis and even though aromatherapy is a very effective treatment for the condition, the individual’s whole lifestyle needs to be looked at.

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

Add 3 drops of Fennel, Carrot Seed and Juniper (or up to 10 drops of one of the above) to the bath along with two handfuls of Epsom Salt and one of Rock Salt. Repeat this every day for two weeks.
This is an excellent detoxifying treatment for all types of arthritis.

Other oils you can add to the bath include – Chamomile or Lavender (to help any inflammation), Rosemary or Lavender (for increasing mobility), Fennel or Grapefruit (for detoxifying)

Make up a massage oil by mixing 7 to 10 drops each of Lavender, Rosemary and Marjoram with 50ml of a carrier oil. Rub this into the area very gently twice a day.
This will help to ease pain and improve mobility.

Apply a cold compress using a few drops of Lavender and Chamomile. This will help ease any inflammation and pain.

Apply a hot compress using a few drops of Rosemary, Marjoram or Black Pepper. This will help to reduce stiffness.

*REMEMBER!

Following any kind of heat treatment (baths, compress or massage), keep the joint moving to avoid any congestion. Also, never massage directly over a swollen joint.

Oil Safety

Fennel – use in moderation, do not use if you suffer from epilepsy or are pregnant, do not use on children under 6
Juniper – use in moderation, do not use if you suffer from kidney disease or are pregnant, do not use on young children
Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin
Rosemary – do not use if you suffer from epilepsy or are pregnant
Grapefruit – slightly photo toxic, therefore, do not use before sunbathing or going on a sunbed
Black Pepper – use in very small quantities as skin irritant

AROMATIP from reiki healing spain: Rosemary is a mental stimulant and will help to improve your memory.

Restoring Records of Good Credit

Hopefully you won't ever need identity theft restoration but if you do you may find prepaid legal services one of the best buys in legal representation.


The most important point to be made about effective identity theft restoration is that you must act quickly. When you start making contact with the various organizations keep a record of all your calls and all your e-mails and other correspondence. If allowed, record your phone conversations.


Filing a police report is crucial. You should file either with your local police if the theft occurred in the vicinity of your home, or in the community where the theft of your identity occurred.


Keeping a copy of that police report, along with its date, is an important piece in the identity theft restoration procedure. You will need this police report to present to your credit card company, your financial institution and any other creditors as proof that the identity theft really occurred.


If you have reason to believe that an identity thief might be diverting your mail to an address other than yours, your local post office can help with this aspect of identity theft restoration. The postal service can verify any change of address requests.


Should any of your credit card statements and invoices not arrive on time call those issuers. Closing all credit card accounts may be a necessary part of identity theft restoration.


In a secure place away from your credit cards themselves you should always keep a record of all of your account numbers with the expiration date of each as well as the contact information on the issuing company.


Identity theft restoration is a slow and painstaking process but if you follow it through step by step you can restore your good credit.

Reporting Identity Theft

Have you been a victim of identity theft? Do you think that your identity is in jeopardy, and that somebody has taken it upon themselves to use your personal information as their own?


If this sounds like a situation that you are in, you will definitely want to look into reporting your matter to the appropriate agency. By doing this, you will be able to document your problem which will go a long way in ensuring that everything is taken care of appropriately.


If you are interested in reporting identity theft you will need to know who to speak with. The reason that most people don’t report this sort of theft is because they simply don't know who to call. You should never let this hold you back from reporting identity theft.


The first place that you may want to contact is the Social Security Administration. Even if they can't directly help you, they will be able to point you in the right direction. The Social Security Administration can be reached by calling 1-800-269-0271.


The Federal Trade Commission may also be able to help you out, or point you in the right direction. They can be reached via phone at 1-877-IDTHEFT.


If you know that your credit card information has been stolen you will not want to waste time with the Social Security Administration or the Federal Trade Commission. You will want to call your credit card company direct, and tell them what happened. This will allow them to put a freeze on your card, and quite possibly assist you in tracking down the problem.


By reporting identity theft, you are doing more than just helping yourself. You are also helping other people who have been victims, as well as people that can become a target at any time. If you feel that your identity has been stolen, make sure to report it right away.

Identity Theft Protection Tips

When it comes to protecting yourself from identity theft it is a matter of keeping your personal information out of the hands of those who would use it for no good. You have to protect your mail and your email information. Protect your mail from thieves by purchasing a locking mailbox. This keeps your mail safe at all times especially when you are a way for a weekend or for a week.


Also instead of throwing out mail with your name, address or any other personal information you should shred it. This keeps others from being able to use your mail as proof of address. When it comes to protecting your identity on the Internet you have to be sure you are on a secure sight prior to entering any personal information.


You should never provide your phone number, bank account or social security number online. This is far too big of a risk for identity theft. Unfortunately there are hackers and scam artists who are waiting for personal information to come across the screen.


These people sell personal information to those who use it to make purchases under a stolen name. There are now companies who offer protection services that alert you when a purchase is made without your consent under your name. Credit card companies also offer similar services. Keeping your name, as you're own and protecting your credit is very important.


You work hard to build good credit and protecting that from being stolen from you or having your credit damaged is a must. Use common sense practices to keep your personal information safe. Purchase a shredder and talk to your family about keeping personal information safe also. You'll be thankful that you did especially the next time you are unfortunate enough to hear of someone else becoming a victim.


Identity theft is a major problem in today's world. It can affect anybody regardless of age or location. In order to make sure that you do not become the next victim, you will want to exercise extreme caution anytime you give out personal information. By doing this, you will ensure that your identity belongs only to you!

Guidelines for Preventing Identity Theft

Preventing identity theft is not a difficult task, as you simply have to put common sense into practice. Whenever you are through with any mail, prescription bottles or any other trash that contains your personal information you should shred what you can and black out info on pieces that cannot be shredded. This keeps those thieves who dig in trash searching for info to be left dirty and empty handed.


You also have to protect your information online. If you are interested in any information online that requires you to provide personal information, never provide your bank account or social security number. There are scam artists who will take your personal information and sell it to those who will use it to make purchases in your name running your credit.


You should also be wary when you use your credit cards or checks when shopping protect the visibility of these numbers as there are scam artists who will photograph your banking information for fraud use.


By following simple guidelines such as these you can ensure your personal information is safe from the eyes and hands of those who are up to no good. You should also be aware of your credit reports and what is on them as you can view for any criminal occurrences and report them if necessary.


Far too many times we believe that this can't happen to us but if you look you will find that your neighbor or even your sibling has had a level of this happen to you.


If you are looking for further information about identity theft, you can find an abundance of information online. By taking the time to provide yourself with knowledge of identity theft than you know how to protect yourself. Prevention is key to not becoming a victim of identity theft.

Fixing Faulty Credit Facts

There are several software programs and services that can help you with identity theft repair if you have been the victim of an identity thief. Some of these are preventative measures as well. You might also consider prepaid legal services, should you need the help of an attorney to counter identity theft.


The first identity theft repair program protects you from the identity theft ramifications of having your wallet or purse stolen. For a one-time fee you receive prevention of ATM, debit or credit cards being activated by someone else in your name.


The service also prevents an identity thief from redirecting to a new address any bank card or credit card statements. Instead of having to work on identity theft repair, this service prevents thieves from making an address change on any of your creditor's accounts.


This identity theft repair and prevention firm will also help you deal with law enforcement to obtain warrants and will talk to collection agencies for you.


As part of this identity theft repair program you will also get a complete monitoring system that insures you receive all your financial statements and credit reports when you should. You'll also get a system that lets you periodically check your credit report with four major firms.


If you have already been the victim of identity theft this firm specializes in repair of the damage to your credit. The cost is one-time only or periodic payments, whichever you choose.


This identity theft repair service is guaranteed and all you have to do is acquire notarization of an affidavit the firm almost completely fills out for you, get a police report, mail out correspondence as directed by the identity theft repair firm, and keep records according to the supplied form.

Facts About Identity Theft

Identity theft is the quickest growing crime in the nation. It is said to be the number one fraud crime at this time. The facts of how widespread this crime wave is will stun you. One quarter of identity theft victims from credit cards are unaware of where or how someone got a hold of their information.


You may be surprised to hear of all of the locations and paper work that provides thieves with your private information. IRS papers, online info. ebay, myspace, university theft and jury duty. These are all areas in which your name and other personal information is written down and accessible.


This is not only a state here or there but also a nationwide problem. Alarming, as this is many of the social security numbers that are being stolen are those of children. Since children have little need or use of their social security number until the age of 18, illegal immigrants use these numbers for years and years.


It is estimated that seven million illegal immigrants are using stolen social security numbers. This crime is a felony within the United States. It can be difficult to catch these criminals and just as hard to correct the fraudulent purchases made by these people. This is a serious danger as credit can be ruined and difficult to correct in the end.


This is serious for men, women and children. You have to be careful as to who sees your personal information. Shred paper work with personal information on it. Do not type personal information in emails or over the Internet.


Speak to your family about the dangers of identity theft. This is a risk that all of us face and as the crimes grow rapidly throughout the U.S. and other countries it is hard to say when we will see a decline in these crimes

Avoiding Crooked Contractors in Your Investment Business

When you're working on an investment property you'll want to do everything you can to make sure things go as they should -and- within your budget. When investors run into problems it is usually because they don’t understand what a project entails and they are not as prepared as they should be. Here are some steps you can follow to avoid these issues right off the bat.


• Get References – Aside from getting references from contractors (which you should always do) network with others on your investment team for personal references.

Not only are you better off getting more reliable contractors, there are a lot times you can get a discount as a “referral”. When you get references, check to see that the quality of work matches what you want done.


• Get Several Bids – Bids for a project can differ dramatically from one contractor to another. Though higher bids help for negotiating purchase price, we all know paying more for work does not necessarily mean its higher quality work.

Along with checking references, make sure they are specific with how they came up with their numbers and what they will do to complete the project. If the numbers don't add up, that would be a big red flag.


• Maintain Clear Communication– Make sure you communicate what you want done and make sure they have the same understanding. If you have a difficult time with a prospective contractor in the beginning; you should look elsewhere for help.

Additionally, while the work is being completed, it is important to meet regularly to follow up on progress, payments, and to tackle any issues before they arise.


• Get License Information – Make sure they are registered, licensed and bonded with the state and provide you with copies of such. You can also check with the state Bureau of Consumer Protection or Consumer Affairs to see if any complaints, lawsuits, or judgments have been filed against them.


• Get Everything in Writing– Even if you hit it off with someone and they seem like a person you can trust, don’t depend on a verbal agreement. Unfortunately, what one person sees as “moral and ethical” may be very different to someone else and contracts with a “handshake” don’t mean what they used to. For more extensive projects it is also good to have an attorney look over anything you plan to sign to make sure your rights and assets are protected.


• Use Payment Phases –Some may require you put down 10% or 20% depending on the amount of work involved, however, any more than this can mean work may get delayed or not done at all. You can avoid this by arranging payment phases and including them in the agreement terms.


Following these steps you will help you avoid a lot of the nightmares you hear and read about, especially when rehabbing properties. Another good way to avoid some of these issues in the first place is to use strategies that don't require extensive work like flipping houses and other quick cash investment strategies. Hopefully these guidelines will give you some added protection to help this aspect of your business, as needed, to run more smoothly!

A Gift Basket Care Package for the College Student

Every year high school graduates go off to college with the intent of being all they can be and making their parents the most proud of them that they have ever been. College is an exciting time in many high school graduates' life, but the whole experience can also be really stressful as well. Because college and college courses are so much different from the way that high school was traditionally held there are some students who may feel frustrated, stressed, confused, and even sad by the time final exam week comes rolling around. If you are the parent of one of these college students, though, one suggestion that you may probably have heard about is sending gift basket college care packages to your college student.

Sending one of these gift baskets that are essentially care packages for your child will actually help him or her de-stress from the goings-on and the hustle and bustle of everyday college life. Here are some of the things that can be included in the gift basket for your teenager, though, and also some reasons why these care packages may help him or her at college:

Favorite Foods

There are plenty of businesses out there on the World Wide Web and in the real world that sell college care packages as gift baskets. With these gift baskets, though, come a whole lot of different food and candy products that you college student will love. Chances are that if the student is a typical college student then he or she will probably be eating Ramen noodles just about everyday. You're in luck, though, because there are also gift basket care packages that include Ramen Noodles. On the other hand, custom gift baskets that can be prepared by companies may include foods and candy that you specify!

Homesick Remedy

If you have ever sent your college student a gift basket care package then chances are that you have also gotten many thanks for doing so. The reason for this is, though, that many college students typically feel homesick after being left at college for weeks on end without seeing anyone familiar from their family or friends. Gift basket care packages, though, are a simple and fun reminder to those college students that want to see their family members and miss the smell and taste of their mother's home cooking!

Of course there are plenty of other options for making a gift basket care package for a college student as well. One option is to buy a pre-packaged gift basket from a gift basket company, but on the other hand a more creative way in which one can give a care package of this sort is to create the gift basket by themselves. This is also probably one of the things that will be more appreciated because the time was actually taken to include special things from home! Altogether, though, care packages in the form of gift baskets can be some of the best presents that college students ever receive while on campus!

Business Auctions Are There For The Taking

If you’re opening a business and you’re badly in need of business supplies but you just don’t have the left over capital, it’s best to take advantage of business auctions. Business auctions typically take place whenever a business finds itself either going out of business or it’s already there. A business auction allows a business, or those in control of that business, to regain lost funds by auctioning off their business equipment and other valuable items. These are great for acquiring phones, computers, office chairs and desks, and anything else you can think of.

Finding One

You can find business auctions by paying attention to the auction section of your local newspaper’s classified section. You can find all kinds of auctions in your local paper. You’ll find government auctions, foreclosure auctions and, of course, business auctions. Depending on the type of business that’s going through the auction, you should be able to find everything you’re looking for. It’s not uncommon for business auctions to include brand new equipment as most businesses fail within the first few years. That means the equipment might have been used only slightly if at all.

The best part about business auctions is that the equipment that’s being auctioned off is rarely at cost. That means you can find all the equipment you’re looking for far less than you’d spend if you bought it brand new. Think of how you’d feel if you could get all your phones, computers, office furniture and more for less than a thousand dollars or even less. All you have to do is show up to the business auction and bid on items as they’re presented. The best case scenario would have very few people bidding, which increases your chances at saving money while getting everything you need.

Even if you’re not in the market for any office equipment, it’s fun to show up to see what’s being auctioned off. You never know, you may find something you like. So start searching for those business auctions in your area and don’t forget to bring your checkbook in case you find something that catches your eye. Business auctions are held all the time and they’re constantly advertised as a way for the business to regain capital or for the bank who gave that business a loan. So take advantage of this negative situation by propelling your business into the future with inexpensive business items as they go up for bid.

Enjoy the Sun with Stylish Solar Accessories

If you're out and about this summer, walking or camping or just wanting to enjoy yourself without worrying about the trappings of civilization, one thing you won't want to have to carry around are bulky battery packs for your electronic accessories. Fortunately, thanks to continuing advances in technology, there's a new way to stay cool this year - with the hottest new solar accessories.


Modern solar accessories are lightweight and easy to use. They include mobile phone chargers handy for use anywhere and converters from which you can charge a range of conventional gadgets.


While most solar accessories are small and lightweight, simply requiring to be exposed to the sun for a few minutes in order to start working, you can power larger items from a solar panel attached to your backpack.


This flexible item is so light that you'll hardly notice it's there, and it'll simply charge up as you walk or whilst you lie around doing a bit of solar charging of your own. It's easy to look after and means that you'll have a power supply wherever you go. What's more, you'll never need to spend money on batteries again!


Solar accessories perfect for taking on your travels include radios and CD players which are ready to go as soon as you give them access to daylight. You can enjoy all the latest sounds even in the middle of nowhere, without damaging the environment.


Solar powered stoves make cooking when camping easier than it's ever been, with no need for a fire. At night, you can light your way with solar power lights which have been charging up during the day.


With all these solar products now available at astoundingly low prices, isn't it time you rethought what you take with you into the great outdoors? This year, make your carbon footprint as light as your footprints on the forest floor.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants as “therapy”, a way of improving a person’s health and well being. Using essential oils in a variety of ways can have a positive effect on a person’s mood as well as helping to cure physical aches and pains, and help with ailments such as Colds and Flu.

Please take into account that Essential oils are potent substances but used carefully and with respect, they are simple and safe to use. However, if you are ever unsure about a particular oil or how to use your oils you should always consult a qualified aromatherapist.

Colds

In the winter our immune systems are weaker than normal which explains why so many of us become ill with colds, coughs etc.
Using essential oils regularly will actually strengthen your immune system so you will be less prone to illness and also your recovery time will be quicker. Tea Tree, in particular, is anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti viral – a must for your first aid cabinet!

Simple Aromatherapeutic Treatments

A daily hot hot bath with 8 to 10 drops of Tea Tree or Rosemary will help to combat congestion and fights infection.

Add a few drops of Lavender, Marjoram or Bergamot to a hot bath to soothe aching limbs and encourage restful sleep. Bergamot will also help to lift your mood. (Remember to always add your oils to the bath once the bath is full, not whilst the water is running as they will then just evaporate!)

Use 6 to 8 drops of Tea Tree or Eucalyptus in a burner throughout the duration of the cold. If you do this at the first sign of the cold, it may prevent it from developing at all! As an alternative, add a few drops of the above oils on a tissue for inhalation during the day.

Oil Safety

Rosemary – do not use if you are pregnant or suffer from epilepsy
Bergamot – do not use before going out to sunbathe
Tea Tree – use with caution if you have sensitive skin

AROMATIP from counselling spain: To find out if your skin will react to a particular oil, mix 4 drops with 10ml of carrier oil (e.g. grape seed or sweet almond) and then apply to the inside of your wrist or your elbow crease and cover with a plaster. Leave for 12 hours then remove. If there is no redness its safe to use the oil.

Don’t Let Them Crash Your Credit

There are some important things you can do to help protect yourself from credit identity theft.

The first thing is to buy a shredder and use it. A small home or home office shredder can be purchased for under $25. Shred any paperwork that contains any personal or financial information about you and your family before you throw it in the trash or dumpster.


A practice known as dumpster diving is the most common way for credit identity theft perpetrators to get hold of your personal information. Yes, they actually go through your garbage or climb in the dumpster and dive through the trash.


To prevent credit identity theft you should shred any receipts for items that you paid for by credit card and any credit card application that you receive in the mail. You should shred all your pay stubs, your bank statements and deposit or withdrawal receipts.


Shred your out of date tax returns and your utility bills and payment stubs. You should always shred any paperwork that includes your social security number.


Ask for and carefully view your credit report once a year, from all three major credit reporting bureaus - Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. You can get your own credit report free of charge once a year.


What you want to look for, that could be an indication of credit identity theft or at least credit identity theft attempts, are an excessive number of credit inquiries. If you can't account for any of these someone might be attempting credit identity theft.


Another cost effective measure to be prepared in case ofidentity theft would be to sign up for prepaid legal services, which would entitle you to less costly attorney services should credit repair be needed.