Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

How To Sell Santa’s Slip-Ups

Shoppers spent more than $15.5 billion this Christmas on gifts on the Internet alone. Just imagine how many millions went to unwanted polka dot sweaters, electric nose hair clippers, and thigh masters. That wasted cash piled up under the Christmas tree. We've all had it happen to us. In fact, you had it happen to you this year. You unwrapped the pretty red bow and tore through the shiny paper o. . .

Top 10+ Ways to Jumpstart your New Year's Finances!

Of course, these don't have to be done in any particular order! Just pick one or two that particularly apply to your situation. Create your 2004 filing system. This might include new file folders, a new box to hold them or space in a filing cabinet with easy access. Set up a folder to collect all the important 2003 tax documents which will be arriving soon. Sure to arrive at your house are W-. . .

Message In A Bottle

This Valentine's Day, create, and give a unique Valentine that they will cherish and remember; a heart felt, "Message In A Bottle". You may have seen them in Gift Stores or Personalized Gift Stores (I have seen these Retail between $9.95-$24.99). You may have heard about them from a friend or maybe you have made one or more yourself.Here are just a few suggestions to try but... whatever you d. . .

A Month of Fun with Children: Making Memories on a Budget

What childhood memories do you hold dear? For me, it was all the times "life happened". The little things like playing outside, riding my bike, playing at the park, swimming in the lakes, laughing with friends. None of those moments cost a cent, yet they are some of my most treasured memories. Making memories on a budget is very easy to do. Choose any of the ideas below and you'll have a fun-fi. . .

Do They Really Need a Dog Bed?

When Lucky was starting to show signs of aging, we were concerned about her comfort. She would have a hard time getting up in the morning. Her legs would shake and she would take five minutes just to get up, where once she could pounce up in a second.Her hips were really thin and her muscle mass was decreasing rapidly.What we found out was that we could help her by getting an orthopedic dog bed. . .

Toys Are GOOD For Your Dog

Did you know that dog toys are actually good for your dog, and not just an indulgence on the part of the owner?There are all kinds of uses for different types of toys.First, starting as puppies, toys give your dog a distraction from other would-be toys like your couch or your favorite pair of shoes.My dogs all love ropes. Every single one of them that has ever had one played with them until the. . .

6 Common Marriage Mistakes

Every marriage starts with a lot of hope and dream about life long association filled with love and togetherness. But very few marriages fulfill the hopes of the participants in totality. There are various reasons for this but here we single out 6 of those. Every young person who is planning marriage should be aware of these most common pitfalls. 1. Marrying for the sake of love without first c. . .

Donating Money Without Spending A Cent

Even if you don't have a penny to your name, it's still possible help your favorite causes. All that's required of you is a simple click of a mouse. By visiting "free click" donation sites, you can give money to a charity by clicking a special button and viewing advertisers. Best of all, your donation won't cost you a single cent.Whether your interest is in helping to save the big cats of the w. . .

Your Consumer Rights

If you have ever fallen behind on your debts you already know that dealing with your creditors can be a hassle. Sometimes it can be downright humiliating. It doesn't have to be that way. With millions of people experiencing financial problems it is absolutely necessary for everyone to know and understand their rights as a consumer. Federal law requires that you receive fair and equal tre. . .

Gifts for Christenings or New Babys

A new baby is a celebration of life. You may find you are invited to a traditional chuch christening where a ceremony with god parents who take an oat to protect and teach will be undertaken. Alternatively you could have been invited to a naming ceremony a less religious ceremony which celebrates the birth of a baby and welcomg them into the family unit.Here are the top gifts to buy for a new. . .

5 Steps To Improving Communication

"Communication is the lifeline of relationships. The health of any relationship is determined by the quality of the conversations between or among the people involved." S. DeKoven Ph.D Like the heart in the human body, I believe that communication in relationships connect all the vital elements and sustains the life of relationships. If you don't talk and share your feelings, thoughts, ideas et. . .

Donating To Earthquake & Tsunami Victims

Sometimes events take place in the world that transcend borders, nationalities and religions. The recent earthquake and following tsunami (tidal wave) in Indonesia that has killed many tens of thousands of people and displaced millions is one of those events. For those wondering how you can help those who were affected by this tragic event, the following charities are collecting donations and h. . .

Love's Most Overlooked Expression

I'll be the first to admit how totally clueless about women's needs, love and relationships most of us men can be. Sometimes women believe that we're just insensitive pigs, but the truth often is, we're just clueless about what she's talking about. Anyway, here's how I somehow got a clue about a few things; hope this helps guys or women, the guy in your life!A few weeks ago, one of my wife's si. . .

4 Keys To Sharing Intimacy

Why do we even care to share our hearts, feelings, thoughts and lives with someone we care deeply about? Why do I want so badly to intimately share myself with thies person? Know what? That's a question that I've often asked myself a number of times. I feel that we do this simply because we want the object of our affection to respond to us in that same manner. We give and share our love with th. . .

Conquer the Five Most Common Fears about Your Wedding Cer...

It’s safe to say that of all the important events in your lifetime, your wedding day is certain to be right up there with those that are the most meaningful. And throughout the entire wedding day – the preparations, the ceremony, the reception, and the wedding night – the moment when you recite your wedding vows to each other is the most meaningful. It is a time that you will remember forever. . .

How To Please Your Boss With Gifts

Confused?? What to give your Boss on his/her birthday??Read On::::::::Birthdays are always special for the person as well as for his/her friends. Friends, relatives and loved ones make the birthday more special with the gifts, cards, flowers and loads of love. It becomes a little difficult to choose the suitable gift for someone special.Choosing a perfect gift for a perfect someone always depen. . .

The Power of Online Coupons

Gosh I love a good deal! You can really get some great deals online when you use coupons. For example, last year I bought a leather office chair at OfficeDepot.com for $49. The original price on this chair was over $100, but with an online coupon plus a sale that they were having I got a fantastic deal! The idea of coupons has always been a love/hate relationship for many consumers. You lo. . .

What 10 Things Divorced Parent Should Do To Promote Posit...

The effects of recent enlargement in divorce rates are negative effects. Divorced children are more probably to get pregnant as teenagers, drop out of high school, abuse drugs and have aggressively emotional and behavioral problems, which lead to social problems. Some children decide to go out of their home when their parents separate each other, and subsequently they become homeless children. . . .

What Divorce Parenting Practices is Best Appropriate for ...

Is there such thing as divorce parenting practices that is best appropriate for an infant? I tell you, yes there is. In fact, it's not only for infant. At every stage of children's development, whether infants, toddlers, preschoolers, elementary school age children or adolescents, there is such thing as appropriate divorce parenting practices.But before we get into discussing serious matter, . . .

Dogs are Heroes

Heroism and courage are probably the most profound traits that endear dogs so deeply into the hearts and minds of mankind. Every day, humans all over the world are rescued by heroic dogs, often at great risk to the dog’s life. No other animal demonstrates this type of courage and devotion. The eagerness some dogs show to selflessly put their master’s safety above their own is a unique inter-. . .

Top Ten Benefits of Play

Play is extremely important for humans from birth to death. Play is not meant to be just for children. It is a form of release and connection that can tap the creativity and can allow you the chance to connect with your inner child and the inner child of others. Play is a state of mind, but it is also a state of body, emotion, and spirit. Yes...it is something you do (playing games, swingi. . .

A Resolution Worth Keeping

New Years Resolutions: Making them is a tradition -keeping of them is usually optional. That's unfortunate, because some of the pledges we make in those moments before the calendar changes are wonderful things to aspire to - spending more time with our children, exercising regularly, stopping a bad habit like smoking - or considering chocolate one of the main food groups. Yet, this is the one t. . .

Baby Showers 101

Are you ready to host the best baby shower ever but don't know where to start? Baby showers are fun, but planning one can be tedious. In this article we'll cover the basics to get you started.So who should host the baby shower? Traditionally, only non-relatives are to host a baby shower -- co-workers, church groups, etc.; however, it has become more common and acceptable for mothers and sisters. . .

A Dog Name Is Something To Be Chosen Carefully

How important is a dog name? Well let's think about this. How often do you call your dog? Who will hear your dog's name? Will you be writing to anyone about this dog? Now that you think about the times you'll use the name, maybe you should put some thought into what that dog name is. I mean, if you have a Great Dane who weighs 120 lbs, you might not want to call him something like Baby or Tiny.. . .

Why Buy a Cell Phone When You Can Get One Free?

If you’re in the market for a new cell phone, now days you don’t have to plop down your hard earned money for the latest new cell phone styles unless you are looking for a phone with all the bells and whistles.If you want a nice up-to-date phone that’s also very practical, then you should first take a look and compare cell phone rate plans that include a free cell phone as part of their offer. . . .

Anyone Can Sell Their Invention Idea – Even Moms

Eureka! You’ve just come up with an idea for a new kind of useful gadget. You’re convinced it will really make waves if you can just get it into people’s hands. Now you’re poking around the Internet trying to figure out a way to sell your invention idea for a tidy profit.Guess what? You’re not alone. Each day, everyday people like yourself come up with thousands of great ideas for new products.. . .

Learn How to Keep Your Tropical Fish Healthy and Happy

Growing up, our family maintained at least two tropical fish tanks at all times. There was the “big tank” (the traditional rectangle aquarium) and the “little tank” (the decorative jug-shaped tank that doubled as a lamp). I remember tapping on the glass gently to get the attention of the fish and being delighted when they seemed to respond by swimming close to my finger.Ahhh . . . the joys and . . .

Buy Discount Candles Online or Make Them Yourself

If you’re looking to buy discount or wholesale candles online you’re in luck. You can find just about any type of candle online to add decoration and beauty to your home. Likewise, if you enjoy making your own homemade candles, you can buy wholesale paraffin candles, tea light candles and soy wax for making lovely soy candles.There are many varieties of unique decorative candles to choose from . . .

Christmas Cheer and a Debt Hangover.

Christmas is a time for celebration. A time to spend with family, friends and loved ones. This is a time to savour all that is good in life, to rest, relax and recuperate ready for a new year. Unfortunately Christmas is also a time when people overspend and can push their lives into a spiral that will take many months to correct.If you wish to deal with debt problems the first place to start is. . .

Dog Ear Care - Keeping Your Dog's Ears Healthy & Pain Free

Importance of Regular Home Dog Ear CareRoutine home dog ear care is very important to the health of your dog. Performed between your regular checkups with the veterinarian, it will help keep your dog’s ears healthy and pain free. If you see signs of trouble you may be able to head them off before they require an extra visit to the vet. Excessive wax, foul odor, redness, constant scratching, exc. . .

Time For A Dog Bath? Dog Bathing Tips For You And Your Dog

Cleanliness and proper grooming can be very important to the continued good health of our beloved pets. But bathing our puppy or adult dog can often prove to be a challenge. There are many questions, myths and opinions floating around when discussing the best care for different dog types and temperaments. Check out these dog bathing tips to get some great ideas so you’ll be prepared for your ne. . .

Keep Your Dog Smiling With Preventative Dog Dental Care

What should pet owners know about dog dental care and periodontal disease?An important aspect of the good dog dental care is proper dental hygiene. One of the most common ailments treated by veterinarians is periodontal or gum disease. Gum disease is progressive. It starts out with the formation of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms in the mouth at the gum line. If not removed plaque wi. . .

Get Answers To Important Questions About Dog Nail Trimming

Trimming your dog’s nails is not usually considered sharing “quality time” with your beloved pet. But when done often enough, with the proper technique, and rewards for your dog’s good behavior, it should be one of those regular grooming events that your dog will tolerate if not look forward to. If not done often enough, with proper technique, and reward- training, it can be frightening and ev. . .

The Best Holiday Gift for Babies

Still wondering what kind of gift you should give the baby of your life this holiday season ? Should you give picture books ? Toys ? Clothing ? Shoes ? Wonder no more ! Choosing a gift for a baby should be simple. Just ask yourself what delights a baby. There are many things which delight a baby. But toys are undoubtedly at the top of the list. Children, even at a very young age, have already b. . .

Tips to Make Reading Fun

This list is for both young and old. I love reading and want everyone to love it as well. So I hope you will find at least one thing helpful in this list and that it will inspire you to come up with some of your own. 1. Vist the public library if you can't get to the library you can also find some of the great authors works online. Just do a search online for "public domain books" 2. Keep a bas. . .

Selecting Dog Crates Isn't Difficult When You Ask The Rig...

Differences Between Pet Containment SystemsIf this is the first time you’re shopping for dog crates you may find it a little complicated. You may have noticed already that the use of the word kennel can be somewhat confusing. So before making a final selection it's a good idea to learn about the differences between some pet containment systems. Equipped with this information you'll be ready to . . .

Operation G.I. Jingle: “Sending Them Home” for the Holidays

This Christmas, there’s a new kind of care package going out to the U.S. Military. Although they can’t eat, wear, or stow the contents of this package in their mess kits, it’s a little reminder of home that our troops can take along with them wherever they go. It’s called Operation G.I. Jingle and it’s a special way for military moms and dads to “visit” with family members back home this holida. . .

Home Made Gifts, The Best Way To Teach Your Kids The Valu...

To a large extent the holidays have come to be more about materialism than the original values of peace, harmony, and faith. Advertisers hit us from all sides with messages of greed and pettiness. Every media outlet is rife with the idea, “buy this, or they wont love you.”In such an age, it is important to remind the children about the true meaning of the season. This can be done, to some exten. . .

Wedding Photography: Preserving the Memories

A person’s wedding can be one of the most important times in their life. They will have memories that they want to treasure forever and then pass on to their children. Wedding photography helps them do this. Having pictures taken at the wedding and then at the reception can capture those precious memories in freeze-frame and help you keep them forever. Pictures are important so you want to be s. . .

Train Your Dog To Be Your Frisbee Playing Buddy

On the surface playing Frisbee with your dog may seem like just a bit of fun, but this activity actually holds other benefits as well. 1. Certain breeds are accustomed to an active lifestyle, so, when they are forced to remain idle, they tend to create interesting diversions to entertain themselves. Unfortunately, their idea of fun may be something that you consider to be destructive behavior. . . .

So you want a American Pit Bull Terrier?

You've made up your mind, it's the American Pit Bull Terrier you want as your companion. Are you ready for this breed? Read this article and then decide if you want to go ahead with your decision. Does your lifestyle fit the ***American Pit Bull Terrier lifestyle? These dogs are packed with energy from head to toe. Craving a good run like a champion athlete. Exercise is critical to a heathy, ha. . .

Child Support: 5 Key Things Every Parent Should Know

There is no magic solution to getting issues surrounding child support resolved. Most parents know that when dealing with the bureaucracy tied to the child support system persistence, persistence, persistence is the key that opens the door. In fact, it is the only thing that will open any door when it comes to getting a resolution to a problem. You cannot count on pencil pushers, or all too pat. . .

Tips for getting your movie career launched

Hollywood helps those who help themselves! In you want to get your movie career fast tracked then here are three common sense tips to help you on your way.1. Borrow the Boy Scout's Motto: Be Prepared.Once you start the ball rolling you never know when you're going to get a casting call. When that call comes there isn't going to be any time to get all of the basics covered so get them out of the. . .

TOP T.E.N Holiday Misconceptions

10. People do not actually know what day Jesus was born on, and there is only a 1 in 366 chaince that is was December 259. The popularity of Santa Claus, as he is known today, is largely due to Coca-Cola who ran advertisements for about 35 years starting in 1931. Before Coke, Santa was mostly the chief elf. 8. Jesus was not born on 0 or 1 A.D (A.D does not actually start at 0). While scholars a. . .

Cats With Feline Diabetes Can Still Lead A Happy Life

“Your cat has feline diabetes.” If this is your vet’s message after examining your beloved friend, it will come as a shock. Yes, your cat has a serious disease. But you can treat it!I got the message myself early 2003. My (then) 10-year-old neutered cat Duvelke had been urinating and drinking more than usual for a few weeks. First it was thought to be connected with a previous medication. But a. . .

How To Stop Your Cat Spraying

The cat backs up to the door, lifts the tail and releases a fine spray of urine. Yes, your cat is spraying. You have a problem. But one you can solve.Figures from the British Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors say that aggression in dogs and marking behavior in cats are the biggest behavior problems in the UK pet population. Spraying is marking behavior, not a litter box problem. Sprayed . . .

Does Living In A Loveless Marriage Necessarily Mean That ...

Being in a loveless marriage is a frustrating predicament, but it may not necessarily mean that a divorce is eminent. Solving the quandary of a loveless marriage requires self-reflection to assess the situation, courage to try to create a team effort for the best decision with your spouse, and gumption to face the reality that a divorce may be the best solution for the loveless marriage.But, be. . .

Dogs - Man's Best Friend

Dogs have been known as man's best friend for decades. Owning a dog can be a positive, enjoyable experience for the entire family. Keep in mind however, that the decision to own a dog is an important one that should not be taken lightly. A dog is not just a fun diversion or entertaining gift. Owning a dog requires a commitment from you that will last the lifetime of the dog. The responsibi. . .

Nicely Designed Pillows As Gifts

Many of us are probably squeezing out our brains to the limit just for a single purpose, to think of what to give especially when it’s Christmas or just a simple birthday present. It’s always nice to give the jewelries, toys, clothes and shoes as we all had been used to of what to give. But haven’t you realized that there is something much cheaper and more fantastic than clothes or jewelries? Y. . .

Five Christmas Survival Tips For The Divorced & Single Pa...

For the over 50% of marriages that end in divorce, Christmas can be a hugely trying time. Since the season is one of the most stressful times of the year anyway, this onslaught of raw emotion to the divorcee can be overwhelming. This is reflected in the Christmas surge of suicide rates. The feelings are that much more intense if there are kids involved. I know for myself, nothing could have pre. . .