Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Halloween & Hounds

Halloween is “fright night” for humans not dogs. Screaming, running, spooky children in masks make many dogs uncomfortable, nervous and frightened.Halloween costumes are fun and are meant to disguise our normal appearance. Dogs do not understand this change in appearance and may become frightened. Costumes that change the way a person walks, stands, or their general appearance may cause a dog t. . .

Surviving Divorce: What To Think About To Ensure Survivin...

Surviving divorce can be a valid fear if you're contemplating getting a divorce. In order to ensure surviving divorce, you should first understand that your divorce decision shouldn't be taken lightly. Ensuring that you'll be surviving divorce can be comforting and can influence your path as you consider your reasons for divorce and take the emotional plunge into actually going through with it.. . .

Learn How to Bank Like a Banker

The business of banking has changed dramatically over the last decade. Because the cost of doing business the old-fashioned way is no longer effective, banks are interested in changing their customers' behavior by encouraging electronic banking alternatives whenever possible. They have done this by charging high fees for services that were once free. If you pay $200 or more in annual fees for b. . .

10 Ways to Save $50 Per Month: The Art of Pinching a Penn...

1. Save up to 50% per month on convenience cleaner cloths by cutting them into half, i.e. dryer softener cloths, face cleanser cloths, etc. Savings: $5 per month2. Find more thoughtful gifts and buy when the item is on sale, shop for birthdays and holidays throughout the year not at the time of the events. Savings: $10 per month3. Bring your lunch to work once a week instead of eating out. Savi. . .

Speaking on Behalf of Our Children: Stop Blaming the Victims

How many times have you flipped through the pages of a magazine or newspaper and seen images of children with captions like “Brats,” “Bullies,” or “Mean and Selfish”? Unfortunately, these are common occurrences in today’s media. For some child advocates, these images serve as a call to action: We need to do something to help America’s so-called “out-of-control” children. The problem is, while . . .

How To Buy The Perfect Gift For Anyone

Shopping online for gifts rather than going to a store is not only convenient, but you save time, money and have an incredible variety of gifts to choose from. It's no wonder online shopping is growing at a phenomenal rate every year. But with so much to choose from, how do you buy the perfect gift for someone? The mistake most people make is buying something that they like instead of thinki. . .

Detergent Dangers: The Answer? Go Natural

People have known the dangers of chemical detergents for a long time, but people also continue to use them. Why? They have either found natural detergents too expensive, too hard to find or not effective enough. This excerpt from an article from Canada about some of the common chemicals found in products today that are a clear danger:HEALTH EFFECTS OF FRAGRANCE CHEMICALs (1)PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS. . .

Man White Gold Rings

It is commonly believed that white gold man rings do not look good and masculine. This is perhaps the main reason why man rings in white gold are quite hard to find. Jewelry designers and sellers have played by the market trend and avoided white gold for men's rings. There is only one possible reason that has led to this belief. White is a color that is associated with something fine and delica. . .

Christmas shopping online might or might not be for every...

Christmas shopping online is not for you? If you are one of those that share this thought, you probably like to enjoy the atmosphere of physical shopping. Doing your Christmas shopping online despite all its convenience, lack the festive mood. The convenience of online shopping has reduced the shopping experience to a browse and click mode, no mood and very little atmosphere. So, you might thin. . .

Negotiating Rates with Your Credit Card Company

Ok, let’s face it, everybody hates high credit card rates, and they drain hard earned money out of your wallet. As a valued consumer, it is apparent that you learn how to negotiate to get the absolute best rate that you possibly can. The good news however is that it doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming process. In fact, it can be very easy indeed if you know what you’re doing.. . .

“I Should Be Doing …. But…”

What a perfect fall Saturday morning, clear sunny blue sky, with a crisp breeze blowing. It’s just the one I’ve been waiting for to begin that yearly regimen, Fall Clean Up. Throwing on some old work clothes, gabbing a mug of steaming coffee and picking up the list of jobs off the kitchen table, I head outside. First order of business is to sit on the back step, drink some coffee – helps to get. . .

Looking For Satellite TV ?

It was 1994 and I had moved into another home and learned that the cable TV line had not been installed to my house. When the cable company told me they would have to dig up my yard to put the line in I wasn't pleased with the idea or the price they quoted me to do it. Satellite TV was still in its infancy stage with the big monster dishes. While I was browsing in a local electronics store one . . .

Have You Lost Your Mind?!

Have You Lost Your Mind?!He was fighting me every step of the way, arched back, stiffened legs and an indignant bellow. With my mind focused on securely fastening my toddler in his seat, all else was an insignificant distraction. Even when my remote became wedged between my hipbone and the carseat and locked the doors. Even when my keys, once secured in my pocket, dislodged and fell to the floo. . .

Bunk Bed Shopping - 10 Point Safety Checklist To Protect ...

Every year thousands of children are admitted to hospital emergency rooms due to incidents involving bunk beds involving improper use, manufacturing, or set up. If your follow our 10 point safety checklist, bunk beds can still be a great bedding solution for your children:Reputable manufacturerLook for manufacturers that are established, and have a long history of manufacturing bunk beds. A g. . .

How To Save Money On Christmas Gifts

How many times have you spent more that you could afford on Christmas gifts for your family and friends? How many times have you bought gifts that weren't what you were looking for and on top of that, paid top dollars for them? It has happened to all of us one too many times. Well, you can SAVE money on all your Christmas Gifts. 1. Make a list. It's always convenient to make a list of all the p. . .

You Better Not Lie, I’m Telling You Why…

Santa Claus Is ComingHoliday season brings the perennial return of Santa Claus. According to traditional lore, St. Nick flies around the world on his reindeer-powered sleigh. He lavishes gifts upon the good children of the world, and as for the naughty youngsters…well, they can expect lumps of fossil fuel in their stockings. This jovial, rotund old fellow provides a magical experience that enri. . .

Growing Pains

Growing up is never easy. Just ask Little Lady, almost three-and-a-half, how hard it is. She’ll tell you. “It’s really, really hard. Half way through the day, my parents are a complete wreck.”She’s right. Sometimes the tension in here gets so thick you could almost slice it with a turbo-jet, 9,000 horsepower chainsaw. Almost.Like the other day when we were leading Little Lady upstairs to . . .

Fall - A New Season - A New Decorating Scheme

What exactly is fall? Being my favorite season, I decided to look it up and see how Mr. Webster defines it. Flipping to “fall” I found “autumn”, ok turning to that here is what it says, “autumn, the season that comes between summer and winter”. Well, that’s pretty cut and dry and I think most of us already know that, so here is my interpretation.“Autumn; cool days leading into brisk nights. Fr. . .

Flowers Truly Reach Your Soul

Flowers are a simple, sincere and unobtrusive way to lift our spirits. They can bring a smile to a tired face or brighten up a room for someone who is under the weather.Scientific research shows that flowers and plants have a beneficial impact on state of mind and emotions. Rutgers University behavioral studies have proven that flowers provide a simple way to improve emotional health.The prese. . .

5 Ways In Which You Can Make Simple Changes To Your Home ...

Home decorating, ever wanted to try it, but hesitated because of time constraints or budget concerns. The following ideas will not only give instant results, but more importantly fit into any budget.1. Changing the Look of Your WallsAdding a new color or changing the texture, can give the room a completely new appearance and that may be the only decorating change that is necessary. The easiest . . .

Home Decorating For Smaller Spaces

“Big Things Come In Small Packages” We’re all familiar with this quote, it’s normally associated with gifts not home decorating, but it should be.A one or two bedroom house, apartment, condo or townhouse can be just as impressive and grand as something with fifteen bathrooms, Wow, imaging having to clean all those, I have enough trouble with two.One interesting things I have found from past exp. . .

A Dash of Cinnamon, A Pinch of the Past, A Smidgen of the...

Close your eyes and remember December, the smell of cinnamon in your mother's or grandmother's kitchen and the warm scent of dough baking in the oven. Imagine opening the oven door and, with assistance, taking out the heated cookie sheet. Devour the cookies, small works of art, with your eyes: Fudge Brownies, Gingerbread, Nut Rolls, Painted Cookies, Sugar Cookies... With each bite, taste your c. . .

Ten Ways to Save Your Sanity During the Holidays

1. Set limits for yourself.If you feel overwhelmed with shopping, cooking and visiting relatives don't add more to your plate. Take 10-15 minute breaks to take e a walk, meditate, read, pray or just sit still. Don't let anyone guilt you into doing something you don't want to do. Be firm with family and friends about your need to take a break.Good resource: http://www.relaxandbreathe.com2. Shop . . .

Family Ties – When to Let Go

Ruth consulted with me because she was confused about what to do regarding her mother, her brother, and her son. From the time Ruth was born, she never felt like she belonged in her family. Her mother ignored Ruth, obviously preferring her brother, and consistently allowed her brother to beat Ruth up. Ruth had some connection with her father, but he was a weak man and never stood up for her or. . .

A New Kind Of Patriotism

No matter who you voted for in the last election, or even who your parents voted for in past elections, we are all still American citizens today and will be tomorrow. We are all American citizens.That statement means something different to each and every one of us who call these great United States of America our home. We are all different in some ways while we are so similar in our love of ou. . .

Introducing a Cat to Your Children

Are cats and children a good mix?So, you had a cat in the family when you were a kid. And you are thinking that the addition of a cat into your home would make a terrific family pet, and would give your children the pleasure of loving and caring for an animal.Most likely you'd be right.But, just because you have nothing but pleasant memories of growing up with a much loved feline pet doesn't m. . .

It Pays For Single Christians To Date Other Like-Minded P...

Searching for the perfect mate can be one of life's greatest challenges. Afterall, forever is a long time. You want to make the right decision. Dating itself can be really trying. It can be hard to find the right people. What if they don't share the same values and beliefs that you do? How do you handle that and when? Wouldn't it be easier to know ahead of time that they are Christian, jus. . .

Survival Kit for the Holidays: Grace, Gratitude and Rando...

If you*re like me, the holidays always have a way of sneaking in. And - like an unexpected visitor who shows up the week I haven’t cleaned my home - I’m caught in a frenzy, desperate to scrape up the tumbleweeds of cat fur and make the place look presentable. For me at least, it’s easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas and Thanksgiving. Time is short and usually so is patience. So this ye. . .

Hiking with Children

There is nothing quite like hiking with small children. The thrill of introducing these young ones to the wonder of nature is matched only by their eyes as they take it all in. If you follow a few simple rules when hiking with children, things go extremely well. Forget these simple rules and your treks with the young can be a recipe for disaster.The first thing to remember is that young ones. . .

New Law Provides Free Annual Credit Report

As of Thursday, December 1, 2004, one-third of Americans will be able to access their credit reports from all three main agencies for free. Passed in late 2003, the Fair & Accurate Credit Transactions Act creates a central source consumers can use to obtain a free annual credit report. Equifax, Experian, and Transunion,the three largest credit reporting agencies, have set up a special site whe. . .

Shoppers Beware - 'Tis The Season

It’s the number one complaint from consumers and it only takes a moment for you to become a victim. While you search for holiday bargains, identity thieves are searching for targets - unsuspecting consumers. Here are some tips to help you safeguard your identity and other valuables:1) Protect your account numbers - Most stores only print the last four or five digits of the charge account on you. . .

Thanksgiving Memories

Turkey ... Stuffing ... Cranberry Sauce ... Pumpkin PieThis is usually what comes to mind when we think of Thanksgiving. Granted the food is yummy and worth waiting for however, let’s not forget another import aspect of this holiday “Being With Family & Friends”.Family & Friends, they are what make this wonderful holiday so special, and help create those special memories.Memories .... Everyone . . .

Very Precise Fortune Cookies

I cracked open the fortune cookie and read the little slip of paper on the inside. Immediately I realized that it had been written by a weather forecaster."You will be approached in the late afternoon by a pink polka-dot octopus..."It continued on the other side: "... and asked to provide details of your application for a yellow cloud mulching permit."Two things struck me about this particular. . .

The Check Doctor Credentials Theory

Camas, WA - Nov 25, 2004 - The behind the scenes check doctor credentials booming business. Who really supplies the doctor credential information? In 2003, there where more than 890 million doctor visits in the U.S. according to the (CDC) Center for Diseases Control and Prevention. "More now than ever consumers are not only researching their doctor, but are also demanding the highest quality of. . .

How to Understand your Cat

Did you know that everyday your cat talks to you? Not with spoken words, but through body language, motions and gestures. Just like humans, cats feel happiness, unhappiness, boredom, affection and nervousness. Each of these is expressed by a special kind of body language. Your pet's entire body tells you how she's feeling and how you should react. It is like a game of charades, where your cat i. . .

How Not to Compromise With Your Partner

Do you ever disagree with your spouse? Or your boyfriend or girlfriend? Of course not – she/he/it is perfect, right?You can imagine my shock when my friend confided in me that he and his wife often fought over tiny things."You're kidding.""Yes, we fight over the tiniest, most unimportant things," he confirmed."Well, why don't you just let her have her way then?""Because we also fight over big. . .

Cat Arthritis

Cat arthritis is not a very common ailment among healthy cats. Most arthritis found in cats is from an accident that has made the bones or joints weak. Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and there is more than one type of arthritis that can affect your cat.Cats usually suffer with two different types of arthritis. The first one being traumatic arthritis, this is brought on by an injury.. . .

Lyme Disease in Dogs

It is hard to get an early diagnosis of lyme disease in your own dog. The first sign of lyme disease in humans is a rash, well; animals do not develop this rash. Lyme disease is also not one of the first illnesses that the veterinarian looks for when you take your dog in for a visit. Many other common illnesses can produce some of the same symptoms, so it can be hard to detect. Lyme disease doe. . .

Lyme Disease Treatment in Pets

Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics, because the disease is caused by a bacterium that is introduced to your pet through a bite from a tick carrying the disease. Antibiotics will be taken for a long period of time and some times and may not be very effective if your pet has had the disease for a long period of time. Sometimes, your veterinarian can switch the antibiotics so see if that. . .

Flea Control for Pets

Flea control can be a very hard thing to do especially if you live in areas where fleas are largely populated. Weather has a lot to do with fleas and trying to keep them outdoors and off of your pets can be very changeling. You can try many of the products available to rid your pets of fleas and then find that you still have the problem. Fleas will lay their eggs in your carpet and on furniture. . .

Great Gifts Under $5

Gift giving is at its absolute finest during the Christmas season. Putting smiles on children's faces, making an elderly person feel appreciated, rewarding a hardworking employee - the reasons for gift giving at Christmas are endless. Christmas is the most popular time for gift giving, and it is no secret that Christmas is also the favorite time for marriage proposals. However, getting ready fo. . .

Finding a Breeder

If you are looking for a Papillon or Phalene puppy for saleMuch has been written on how to find a reputable breeder. All in an attempt to put a stop to pet mills and abandoned dogs. But too many prospective puppy buyers are just as irresponsible as some breeders. So now, serious, quality breeders, have taken steps to protect both their dogs and their privacy.Times have changed a great deal, so . . .

Heartworm Treatment for Cats and Dogs

The treatment for heartworms is different for cats and dogs. Do not ever give medicine intended for a cat to your dog or vice versa.Once your pet has heartworms the treatment is not easy. You want to rid your pet of heartworms but many factors need to be looked at before proceeding. Your veterinarian will have to do many tests to determine how many worms your pet has, how it is affecting your p. . .

Decorate for Christmas

It’s your home/your apartment and you want to make it a special sanctuary this Christmas. How can you create a special place for your family and you? Well, we already have our centerpiece…see November’s issue (http://www.amomslove.com/hol-thanksgiving-decorate.html). Just replace candles and flowers. But how can you make your place shine with love and holiday spirit? Your dining room table can . . .

Three Steps to Reduce Holiday Stress for Your Kitty

The annual holidays can be a very stressful time for your cat. This is the time of the year when that strange tree goes up, bright trinkets are hung (but all your cat hears is “No, no, bad kitty!” when she tries to explore them), delicious food is prepared (cats need not apply to eat it!), and lots of strange people come tramping into the house. Some cats are in their glory, being in the . . .

Cheap Christmas Gift Ideas

Now that the biggest shopping season of the year is in full swing it might be a good time to create a holiday budget. I'm sure there are lots of names on your list, but hopefully you can find gifts that won't put a big dent in your pocketbook. I've come up with a few good ideas that might help. Make your Own. Everybody loves a homemade gift. It means that you really put some time and thought in. . .

Inexpensive Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Kids

After all the gifts have been purchased and placed under the tree, that is the time that many remember in a panic that the stockings over the fireplace still need to be stuffed. Holiday budgets have most likely been spent and there isn't a whole lot of extra money available. Even with a limited budget, there are a number of quality stocking stuffer ideas that are both practical and will bring a. . .

If You Want a Friend, Get a Dog!

Carl Icahn, the hostile takeover master who was THE original corporate raider, is often quoted as saying, "In this business, if you want a friend, get a dog!" The rest of us already knew that dog was man's best friend, and with good reason. Dogs as pets date back at least as far as the days of Pompeii, where the remains of a dog stretched out next to a little boy were recovered from the rubble . . .

Have an Itchy Dog? Consider These Grooming Tips Before Tu...

Many dogs today suffer from itchy skin caused by a variety of factors. Dogs actually have more sensitive skin than humans, and are often exposed to a variety of irritants in their environment. These grooming tips may help alleviate your dog’s constant itching. Brushing your dog daily will remove pollens, grasses, and other outdoor irritants as well as stimulating the skin’s circulation and pre. . .

Save Big By Being Patient

When people claim they have saved money or found a great deal, you usually hear about the time, effort and research they put into getting the bargain. This gives the impression that getting good deals takes a lot of work. While good research and organization can go a long way to getting you great deals, the truth is that doing nothing is often your best resource when getting a great deal. The p. . .