Kristen's Guide Updates (Blog Archive 2007)
Content Updated on May 4, 2009
Archives for Other Years: 2006 2008 2009
Get More Website / Blog Traffic in 2008
Posted: 2007-12-28
If you have a website or blog, perhaps you may want to consider a cyber new year's resolution: increasing the number of visitors to your site.
I've been trying out various methods during the past couple of years, and I finally decided to make a list of all the things I've done to help increase the traffic to my own site.
See how you can do it too at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Business/increase_website_traffic.asp
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New Way for You to Share Your Opinion
Posted: 2007-12-28
I'm testing out a new commenting system, called Intense Debate. This means that you can now share your opinions about articles on Kristen's Guide by adding your comments to the end of articles.
Just go to Kristen's Guide, read an article, and use the new system to let me know what you liked about the article, add your own ideas to elaborate on the topic, and report any problems with it.
I hope to get some good feedback from everyone since I want to learn as much as I can from all of you as well as share what I've learned from life.
Happy day!
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What printables do you want?
Posted: 2007-12-26
I know most people come to Kristen's Guide looking for free printables, but if you haven't found what you wanted in the printables area, here is your chance to let me know about it. Head to the forum and tell me what printables you would like to see in 2008.
Click Here to Suggest a printable!
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Jolly Winter & Merry Xmas & Happy New Year
Posted: 2007-12-23
It's that time of year again. 2007 is almost over. Winter has officially begun, Christmas is 2 days away, and 2008 is right around the corner.
I've printed out my 2008 weekly planner and filled it out, thought about my New Year's Resolutions, wrapped all the Xmas presents, and baked cookies for my neighbors.
I have just one last thing to do...
Say "Jolly Winter, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year" to all of my Kristen's Guide readers!
Thanks for reading my stuff and sending me all the nice messages (the best gift of all). I hope you all stick around for 2008 and help me make Kristen's Guide even better. I couldn't do all of this without you.
Happy holidays everyone!
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Weight Loss Journal
Posted: 2007-12-18
My motivation to exercise has been boosted by mini-workouts and giant red flags on the scale.
Read about it at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_december.asp
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Meet Other Kristen's Guide Fans at Our New Forum
Posted: 2007-12-17
I get lots of emails from my site visitors, and I often don't have time to answer all of them right away, so I've decided to create a forum where other Kristen's Guide visitors can help answer your questions. It's also a place where we can all get to know each other.
Go visit the forum, register, and introduce yourself in the Introduction section.
Then head to the Forum Suggestion section and tell me what topics you would like to talk about in the forum, and I'll set those sections up.
See you there!
http://www.kristensguide.com/forum
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The Purposes of Your Life / Your Life Missions
Posted: 2007-12-05
The meaning of life asks the question, "Why are you here?"
The purpose of your life asks the question, "What are you going to do now that you are already here?"
We have many life purposes. Some we don't even need to try to fulfill. Some require a lifetime of work. And if the meaning of life is to experience happiness, then the ultimate purpose of your life is to actively find deep, lasting happiness.
Learn about life purposes at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/purpose.asp
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The 2008 Weekly Planner for Spontaneous People with Menus
Posted: 2007-12-03
Kristen's Guide to Designing Your Life: The 2008 Weekly Planner for Spontaneous People with Menus is here.
It's a weekly planner for people who don't like to schedule every aspect of their lives. If you just want to keep track of appointments, to-do lists, shopping lists, and weekly menus, then this is the planner for you.
To see a preview and learn more about it, go to http://www.lulu.com/kristensguide
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Getting Over My Weight Loss Plateau
Posted: 2007-12-01
For those of you who are following my weight loss journey, you probably know that I've been stuck on a weight plateau for quite sometime. I became so discouraged that I stopped exercising altogether.
Well now I'm working on getting back into my healthy, fitness-filled lifestyle, and I'm starting small.
See the journal entry at:
http://kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_december.asp
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I've discovered the meaning of life :-)
Posted: 2007-11-29
I'm updating the "Happiness" section of my website. (It's been quite a long time since I've played with that section, and it is in serious need of updating.)
The first article I tackled was my favorite subject, the reason I created the "Happiness" section in the first place: THE MEANING OF LIFE!
To see the article, go to:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/meaning_of_life.asp
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Free Dolch Sight Words Charts and Flash Cards for Anyone Learning to Read and Write
Posted: 2007-11-24
If you or your children are learning how to read and write, you'll definitely want to check out the Dolch sight words charts and flash cards.
The Dolch lists contain English phonetic words (like the word so) and irregular words (like the word to) that new readers and writers need to know for basic reading skills. The lists are for preschool through third grade reading levels and are used by most schools in the United States.
Get them at:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Printables/education.asp
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New Free Workout Printables
Posted: 2007-11-21
I just added a new 6-week workout planner (all on one page) and a more detailed weekly workout planner (with room to plan out each component of your exercise for the week: cardio, strength, flexibility, balance, and mind-body). I've also added a portrait version of the strength training log.
Get them at
http://kristensguide.com/Printables/health.asp
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It's Here! 2008 Weekly Planner / Calendar for Healthy Living Available
Posted: 2007-11-16
Whether you're just trying to live a healthy lifestyle or lose weight, you can plan all of your exercise, major meals, chores, errands, appointments, shopping lists, and goals all in one place with Kristen's Guide to Designing Your Life: The Weekly Planner for Healthy Living 2008. Each week's planner page also has a healthful tip, a new healthy habit, every week, that you can easily incorporate into your life.
See a preview and buy the planner / calendar at
http://www.lulu.com/content/1431136
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The first 2008 weekly planner / calendar is up
Posted: 2007-11-11
For those of you who wanted to get a 2008 planner for your household notebook, the first one is ready for purchase. It's the most basic weekly planner, with just two sections for each day (appointments & tasks to-do) and a section for notes. The planner also includes sections for monthly and yearly goal planning as well as shopping lists.
Check it out at http://www.lulu.com/content/1389767
The next calendar that I'll be putting up is the Health planner, for those of us who are trying to get healthy. It includes columns for exercise and menu planning along with weekly health tips.
For those of you who don't want to focus on health, I'll also put up a version with just columns for appointments, tasks to-do, and menu planning (no exercise column and no health tips).
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More Vegan Cosmetics added to Kristen's Picks
Posted: 2007-11-11
If you're looking for vegan cosmetics (skin care, hair care, nail care, and makeup), then pay attention.
Those products are expensive, and it's always disappointing when you buy some and discover that they aren't worth the money. So I'm doing the product testing for you.
I just added some new products to my list of favorite vegan cosmetic products. Check it out:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Beauty/vegan_cosmetics.asp
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Weight Loss Journal: Back on the Wagon
Posted: 2007-11-05
For those of you who follow my weight loss journal, it's finally updated after I took a month off.
See the entry at:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_november.asp
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New One-Page One-Year Planner
Posted: 2007-10-29
We're heading toward the end of the year, which means that it's time for new printables to help everyone get organized for 2008. This year, I'm starting my 2008 goal planning with a one-year planner, conveniently all on one page.
To see the new goal planner, as well as other calendars and planners, go to:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Printables/calendars.asp
More new printables to come...
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Yay! No More Partial Feeds
Posted: 2007-10-16
I recently discovered that this blog feed was only showing up as a partial feed. How annoying for my Kristen's Guide Update readers who are subscribed via a feed reader. My deepest apologies.
I hope I fixed the problem. Please let me know if feeds stills how up as partial.
For anyone who is interested: I use Blogger (blogspot), and I set my feed settings to "Full." But the feeds weren't posting as full feeds because I also use FeedBurner, and FeedBurner has a "Summary Burner," which cuts all of your posts into little teasers and forces readers to visit the blog site to read the entire post. Well, in my excitement of playing with all the FeedBurner gadgets, I accidentally turned that feature on. I discovered the error and fixed it. I deactivated the Summary Burner, and everything seems to be working well now (I hope).
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Survive the Drought
Posted: 2007-10-15
The South is suffering through a HUGE drought, the worst in over 100 years. And the West isn't doing so great either.
Here are some water saving tips to help everyone, especially everyone in the South, live without wasting water.
See them at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Activism/Environment/conserving_water.asp
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Making a Household Notebook
Posted: 2007-10-14
It's time to start thinking about getting organized for next year, and for many of us, that means making, updating, or upgrading our household notebooks. To start things off, I've updated my Household Organizer / Notebook section.
See it at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Organizing/Home_Organizer/index.asp
More household notebook articles will be coming soon.
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What's it like to get your tubes tied?
Posted: 2007-10-14
I had a tubal ligation over a year ago, and I'm often asked, "What was it like to get a tubal ligation?" So I wrote down all the details for anyone who is considering having the procedure.
Learn more about my tubal ligation experience at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Womens/tubal_ligation_for_birth_control.asp
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Getting Out of Depression
Posted: 2007-10-11
You can overcome depression, but you need the tools to do it.
My own experience with depression has given me tools that have helped me through the rough spots.
Read more about it at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Managing_Emotions/escaping_depression.asp
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Should We Put Religion in Public Schools?
Posted: 2007-10-09
What about in court houses and laws? Should we allow our leaders to govern based on their own religious beliefs?
See more at:
http://kristensguide.com/Activism/Human_Rights/church_and_state.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Sometimes you must heal your wounds to lose weight
Posted: 2007-10-06
Sometimes weight loss is deeper than just diet and exercise. Sometimes it seems like we can't control what we put into our mouthes and exercise seems too overwhelming. That's when you need to start digging deep into your brain and figure out what's compelling you to eat junk food and watch TV instead of going for a walk.
It's been over a month since my last weight-loss journal entry. I've been dealing with some very bizarre and painful situations that have put me under quite a bit of stress. It has been thwarting my weight loss efforts as my emotional eating has taken over, so I'm spending this month (October 2007) figuring out how to healing my wounds.
You can read the story of my bizarre stress at:
http://kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_october.asp
See all the journal entries at:
http://kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/index.asp
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How to Start Walking to Get Fit
Posted: 2007-10-06
One of the easiest and most effective methods of aerobic exercise for weight loss and and overall fitness is walking. It's easy to get started, even during the chilly autumn weather, and it puts little stress on your joints compared to many other types of aerobic exercise. Whether you're just start to take those first steps or want to hike a marathon, walking can be for you.
Learn more about walking for fitness:
http://kristensguide.com/Health/Exercise/walking_to_get_fit.asp
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What is faith?
Posted: 2007-09-26
Even atheists have faith.
Faith is not just a belief in a religious dogma. Faith is the foundation of logic and happiness.
To learn more about faith, how to have more faith, and how to lose faith, visit:
http://kristensguide.com/Happiness/Religion/faith.asp
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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
Posted: 2007-09-25
This is the time of year when school fund raisers, charity donation requests, and amazing credit deals start popping up everywhere. If you're not paying attention, you might end up giving a thief some of your valuable personal information.
Learn how to protect your finances from identity theft. Visit:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Money/financial_identity_theft.asp
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It's Calendar Designing Time Again!
Posted: 2007-09-23
I'm getting ready to design the 2008 calendars, and I need your help. I need you to tell me what kind of calendars, planners, schedules, forms, printables, etc. you'd like to see at Kristen's Guide.
For example, perhaps you want something to help you organize your time hour-by-hour, or maybe you just want an organized to-do list. If you have any goals for the upcoming year, such as losing weight, I might even be able to design something to help you reach those goals.
So go to the Contact page and send me your ideas. (Only an email address is required to fill out the form, but other information will help me design printables for your needs. And, don't worry, your email address will not be added to any email lists, sold, traded, etc.)
http://www.kristensguide.com/Contact_Me/contact_me_misc.asp
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Are You a Victim of Verbal or Emotional Abuse?
Posted: 2007-09-17
I'm alarmed by how many people think that verbally and emotionally abusive behaviors are just normal behaviors.. Abusers don't think they're doing anything wrong, and victims are so familiar with being abused that they think they actually deserve to be treated disrespectfully.
It's time to stop putting up with abuse.
Are you being verbally or emotionally abused?
Recognizing Emotional and Verbal Abuse
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Dealing_With_People/emotional_verbal_abuse.asp
If so, what can you do to stop it?
Defending Yourself Against Verbal and Emotional Abuse
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Dealing_With_People/emotional_verbal_abuse_defense.asp
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Is it a Cult? How to Know if You or Someone Else is in a Cult
Posted: 2007-08-29
Everyone thinks they'll know a cult when they see one, but billions of educated people all over the world are in a cult and don't even realize it. You may be in one right now.
Learn more about the characteristics of cults at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Religion/cult.asp
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The spam isn't from Kristen's Guide
Posted: 2007-08-19
Spammers sometimes forge headers so that the spam they send out looks like it came from a legitimate site, and so they won't have to deal with any complaints. In this case, spammers sent out a bunch of spam from fake email addresses that included the kristensguide.com domain.
I just wanted to assure everyone that I have not sent out these spam messages. If you check the headers of the spam, you'll see that the IP address has no affiliation with the kristensguide.com domain.
For those of you on any of my mailing lists (e.g. updates, support groups, etc.), don't worry. The spammers do not have access to your email address. They were using their own email lists to send out the spam and do not have access to any mailing lists affiliated with Kristen's Guide.
Happy day!
http://www.kristensguide.com
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Chubby Buddies: Up and Down
Posted: 2007-08-12
Another weight loss journal entry. (And I use the phrase weight-loss lightly lately.) My weight has hovered in plateau mode no matter what I've done. But I haven't lost hope. I'm just trying to remember to take my own advice by doing a very important workout I've stopped doing.
See the journal entry at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_august.asp
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Getting Motivated to Lose Weight and Stay on Your Plan
Posted: 2007-08-10
I've updated my page about getting motivated to lose weight and keep losing weight (if you're already on a plan).
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/ways_to_stay_motivated.asp
Funny little story...
I was looking for something to motivate me to stick with my diet / exercise / weight loss program and drop the next 10 lbs. I decided to go online to see if I could find new ideas. And the site I ran into... was MY OWN SITE. So I read my own article and said, "Oh yeah, I forgot about doing that." Funny how we sometimes forget to take our own advice. So I decided to come up with some new ways to motivate myself and updated the article. Enjoy.
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Writers & Students: More words to use instead of "said"
Posted: 2007-07-28
If you're working on that writing assignment for summer school, or perhaps your short story or novel, and are getting a bit tired of writing "he said" or "she said," then check out one of my most popular word lists:
Words to Use Instead of Said
http://www.kristensguide.com/Writing/Word_Lists/speaking.asp
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Oopsie
Posted: 2007-07-24
I just discovered that many of my pages had a formatting boo boo that made my pages unreadable when viewing them in Firefox or Opera.
Fixed it!
Sorry.
Please try visiting those pages again. This time, what you're looking for will be there... promise.
http://www.kristensguide.com
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Chubby Buddies: So here's the plan...
Posted: 2007-07-24
So I've really let myself go, fallen back into my old, unhealthy lifestyle for a few week, and I've paid the price by seeing the pounds come back (gained 5 lbs. in just a couple of weeks).
What's worse? It happened right at a time when I was doing well. I had even seen the scale dip down to 167. I should have been ultra motivated. What happened? I'll be trying to figure that out this week.
In the meantime, I'm getting back on my plan, and here's how.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_july.asp
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Kristen's Guide Goes Mobile
Posted: 2007-07-21
If you have a website, you probably know that your pages will show up differently in different browsers, and now we have another medium to consider when designing our sites -- handheld devices.
I've spent the weekend creating a new handheld css sheet, so, now, you can easily read my site on your PDA, PalmPilot, Blackberry, iPhone, etc. (perfect for killing time while using public transportation or sitting in waiting rooms). I'm currently working out the bugs (feedback is appreciated), and I'll be posting some articles about it when I get a better handle on the glitches.
Until then, happy browsing (now, even when you're on the go).
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Chubby Buddies: This is what happenes when you lose control
Posted: 2007-07-15
For those of you who are following my weight loss efforts and are trying to lose weight with me...
I think this has been my worst slip up so far.
See the journal at http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_july.asp
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Bubble Games for Kids
Posted: 2007-07-10
Looking for something for your kids to do during summertime play dates and parties? Try bubble games. You can play with just one or one dozen kids, and when you play outdoors, cleanup is easy.
Check out my list of games to play with bubbles:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Family/Fun_Kid_Stuff/bubble_games.asp
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More things to do in Portland
Posted: 2007-07-09
I've added more fun, amazing, delicious things to do in Portland, Oregon, and I've added a map to make it easier for you to find these outstanding places.
If you're planning a trip to Portland, visit the page first:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Travel/Oregon/portland-metro.asp
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Kristen's Pick: An IM client we can love
Posted: 2007-07-09
So your friends use Yahoo Messenger, MSN Messenger, GoogleTalk, AIM, etc., and you would like to be able to IM all of them but don't want to install and run multiple IM programs. Then check out Pidgin.
I used Trillian for years and loved it, but it got a bit buggy at times, and I hated having to pay for an upgraded version just to use Google Talk. Pidgin works with so many more IM services.
For now, you still have to use other IM software for video and voice chat, but if you mostly do text messaging, then Pidgin is the way to go most of the time.
See more of my favorite software / programs (many of them free) at:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Computers/favorite_software.asp
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Why are woman so crazy?
Posted: 2007-07-07
I'm going to do a favor for heterosexual men everywhere. I'm going to explain one of the greatest mysteries of the universe.
Why are women crazy? Why are women difficult? Why do women cry so easily? Why do they get so irritated over nothing? What's wrong with them?!
You know you want the answers. To find out, visit
http://www.kristensguide.com/Relationships/why_are_women_crazy.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Weight loss journal update
Posted: 2007-07-03
I'm feeling stronger this week, and I'm more motivated to exercise. I even started jogging again, and my strength training weapon of the weak is yoga.
Visit the weight loss journal to see my journal entry at:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_july.asp
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And don't forget the BMR calculator
Posted: 2007-07-01
If you want to quickly calculate your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate: the number of calories your body burns at rest during one day), visit the BMR calculator.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/bmr.asp
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Just a BMI Calculator
Posted: 2007-07-01
If you want to quickly calculate your BMI, you don't need to fill out the entire weight loss profile.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/weight_loss_profile_calculator.asp
Instead, you can go to the BMI calculator at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/bmi.asp
and just enter your height and weight (in metric or standard) to get a quick BMI readout.
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Weight Loss Calculator Improved
Posted: 2007-06-25
I just added some improvements to the weight loss profile calculator. You can now enter your activity time in hours and minutes, so you don't need to calculate hours in decimals anymore. I also added to the report how much time and how many calories your expend at each activity level during the day (as you've entered it), so you can print it out for your weight loss journal.
If you have any other improvement suggestions, please let me know.
Visit the weight loss profile and get ready to lose weight at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/weight_loss_profile_calculator.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Self Sabotage
Posted: 2007-06-18
Up and down. Up and down. And up again. But this time, I know why.
Read the journal entry:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_june.asp
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Another freakin' blog!
Posted: 2007-06-14
So I've had some fans (do I really have fans?) ask me personal questions. They want to know more about my life, what I do at 3am, where I travel, how I feel about cheese, ...
Kristen's Guide is focused on handy little bits of information that can help your life, but if it's my life that you want to learn about, then head on over to my new personal blog, Kristen Brooke Beck: the Written Ramblings.
I just started it today, so I only have one post, but I'm sure there will be more, many of them written during bouts of insomnia while watching infomercials about rotating potato peelers. I can't guarantee that some of them won't offend you, but I'll do my best to watch the language.
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Chubby Buddies: Back on the wagon
Posted: 2007-06-11
It's a hectic time of year, so my website is being neglected, but I'm still updating my weight loss journal.
I started doing strength training again. I think it may have helped. I lost 3 lbs. in one week.
Read my journal entry at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_june.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Maybe a shift in focus is necessary
Posted: 2007-06-04
When emotions take a toll on my eating habits, maybe I should shift my focus toward exercise, especially when the stress of past memories contributes to the majority of my stress today.
See the journal entry at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_june.asp
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How Do I Start Healing from Obsessive - Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Posted: 2007-05-23
Hi Kristen, It's nice to have something like this for those of us that don't want to tell anyone of our suspicions. I'm wondering if I don't have OCD-may have had in mild, mild forms for years now that I think back but now have had 2 boys and things have changed. I don't think I'm a bad case, just mild. I read an article in Self magazine and I felt like I was reading about me. I was shocked at that fact and made me realize that there's a reason for my thoughts, not just going crazy/bad mom. For years I've had intrusive thoughts of bad events happening and chalked it up to not being able to watch the news much. I tried to block it from my head and get upset when the thoughts kept creeping back in. Things (thoughts) worsened after each of my two boys were born. Now 15 mos. after my last boy, I'm realizing I need help. My Dr. put me on Lexapro yesterday for anxious feelings but not sure if I need more intervention. Hand-washing is a big thing for me, especially when I'm working (at a hospital.) Didn't realize this was a symptom of anything. Where do I go from here? Wait to see if the medicine works? I go back in 4 weeks. Thanks.
--Jennifer
To see Kristen's answer, visit:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Questions_Happiness/healing_OCD.asp
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Chubby Buddies: OK, OK, so I fell off the wagon
Posted: 2007-05-21
STRESS!!! I hate stress. To cope with stress, I eat, and eat, and eat, and gain weight. So now I need to pull myself back up, back onto the wagon.
Read the journal entry at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_may.asp
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Should I Tell My Kid that Santa Isn't Real?
Posted: 2007-05-16
Lately my daughter has been questioning the existence of the tooth fairy, Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, etc. Since she is only 8, I really would like her to keep believing for a little while longer. She said that other kids have told her that it is really your parents. I asked her what she believes and with tears in her eyes she says she doesn't know. What suggestions do you have for answers to her questions "Is he real?"
--Donna
See Kristen's answer at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Family/Parenting/Questions_Parenting/santa_real.asp
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Chubby Buddies: I didn't fall off the wagon; I just dangled over the edge.
Posted: 2007-05-14
I spent the weekend indulging, but it was worth it. You have to let yourself celebrate with food once in awhile, just not every week.
See the journal entry at:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_may.asp
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Identifying Your Limiting-Beliefs
Posted: 2007-05-13
If you have ever found yourself wishing you could have the life you truly want but don't expect you'll ever get it, or if you find yourself saying "I can't" or feeling stressed out, then you probably have limiting-beliefs that are holding you back from doing what you really want to do and keeping you from having more happiness in your life.
The first step in ridding yourself of limiting-beliefs is recognizing them. Learn how:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Life_Change/limiting_beliefs.asp
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Tidbits Update Schedule
Posted: 2007-05-10
If you are a subscriber of the Tidbits from Kristen's Guide feed (not the Kristen's Guide Updates feed, which you are reading right now), here's an FYI for you.
The Tidbits from Kristen's Guide will be updated once per month. If you don't see an update every day or every week, don't worry, the blog has not been abandoned. I'd like to post to it more frequently, but, hey, there's only one of me.
http://kristensguidetidbits.blogspot.com/
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Do Thermogenic Pills Help You Lose Weight?
Posted: 2007-05-09
Hello,
What do you think about thermogenics? Do you think they are healthy? I've tried everything else and it seems the bit that these pills speed up my metabolism is starting to really make some difference. I also work out 5 times a week and eat like an athlete, and that wasn't enough before these pills...
Is it possible that I have a thyroid problem?
Thank you
--Lauren
See Kristen's answer athttp://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Questions_Weight_Loss/thermogenics.asp
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How to Have True Happiness
Posted: 2007-05-04
True happiness is the meaning of life. Everything we do is based on our desire to be happy. It is our primary motivation for doing our hobbies and choosing the paths we follow in life. It is also the reason why we endure things we don't like; we're convinced that by doing them, happiness will be the light at the end of the tunnel.
Learn how to have true happiness:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/true_happiness.asp
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What Should I Give for a Graduation Gift?
Posted: 2007-05-02
Hi Kristen,
We know a set of twins who are both graduating from college next month. My husband and I have known them for about 4 years and they have both done some babysitting for us. What would be appropriate as a graduation gift? If I were to give them money, what amount do you think I should give? We usually give 2nd cousins or nieces/nephews 50-100 dollars.
--Kelly
See Kristen's answer at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Celebrations/Gifts/Questions_Gifts/graduation_gifts.asp
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Chubby Buddies: I lost 3 pounds in one week.
Posted: 2007-04-30
I motivated myself to get back to exercising and controlling my food portions. I've been de-stressing and committing myself to projects I'm passionate about to reduce any feelings of boredom. And rediscovering my desire to lose weight, I've lost 3 lbs.
See my recent weight loss journal entry
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_april.asp
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Questions for Kristen: Feeling Better When I Miss My Friends
Posted: 2007-04-26
My aunt and her 2 children who are 11 and 8 live in California and they always come to my house winter break and in the summer. Every time they leave I am really really upset. I try sending them letters but that doesn't make me feel any better. School is starting in a few days and I feel lonely because they aren't here anymore. I don't know how to get to feeling better.
--Katy
To read Kristen's answer, go to http://www.kristensguide.com/Relationships/Questions_Relationships/missing_friends.asp
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Oops... Printables Fixed
Posted: 2007-04-25
I recently heard from a visitor who said that my printables were popping up as errors. Yikes! I'm fixing them all now. Please let me know if any printable doesn't work for you.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Printables/index.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Weight loss journal update
Posted: 2007-04-23
For those of you following along with my weight loss journey, the weekly journal has been updated with my latest weight loss (ummm gain) news.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_april.asp
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Questions for Kristen: Taming a Rebellious Toddler Who Says "No!"
Posted: 2007-04-19
Hi Kristen, I'm having a very difficult time with my 20 mth old daughter. She is very bright and ahead of most kids her age when it comes to her development. But she is very strong willed and constantly wants her way - she throws fits and screams bloodly murder endlessly while either stomping her feet or rolling around. The thing is we are very close and have a great relationship (like best friends always playing together), but I can't get her to listen or take me seriously. I thought maybe I was too much of a "friend" - so I tried to change my tone when asking for cooperation, but according to my husband I sound very aggressive, and all I get is a "NO!" anyway. I am at my wits end - I don't want to do anything to traumatize her, and I want to continue encouraging her development. Do you have any suggestions?
--Rachel
See Kristen's Answer: http://www.kristensguide.com/Family/Parenting/Questions_Parenting/rebellious_toddler.asp
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Empower Your Children by Teaching Them to Do Things for Themselves
Posted: 2007-04-19
Parents often get stuck in the belief that we must do everything for our children because it is our responsibility and shows our love for them. Actually, our job as parents is to teach our children how to do things themselves. We don't do this by throwing them into situations alone and forcing them to figure it out. We do this by acting as teachers and guiding them, then gradually giving them opportunities to try the tasks alone. Through such lessons, we teach our children to solve their own problems, make their own creations, and become more confident.
Here are some things you can teach your children to help them feel more independent and empowered:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Family/Parenting/Empower_Children/do_it_themselves.asp
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Chubby Buddies: Weekly Weigh-In & Journal
Posted: 2007-04-16
The weight loss journal has been updated with my latest weigh-in and rantings, braggings, and motivations about my personal weight loss efforts.
Today's weight-loss discovery: There's hope for me yet!
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_april.asp
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Etiquette: How Much Should I Tip?
Posted: 2007-04-09
I used to always be confused about whom I should tip and who much I should tip them. Plus, I had a hard time doing math in my head, so I often couldn't figure out exactly how much was appropriate even when I knew the percentage that I was supposed to tip.
My darling husband taught me how to quickly do the math in my head for percentages, but I still didn't know who exactly was supposed to get that 15%.
I had charts that explained in detail each person who would get a tip, how much, etc., but I didn't have time to memorize an entire list of individuals and corresponding numbers, so I made my own chart and broke it down into easy-to-remember categories.
See the Chart
http://www.kristensguide.com/Etiquette/tipping.asp
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Creating a Website: Finding a Host for Your Website
Posted: 2007-04-06
I've recently been asked by several persons how to start a website. The first thing you need to do is find a host. Different hosts offer different services, so it's confusing for a beginner to figure out which service is best. Here's what you need to know to get start.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Website_Design/hosting.asp
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Who is Kristen and why the heck does she have a site?
Posted: 2007-04-04
What kind of an expert are you? How do you know all this stuff? Why do you stick it on the Internet? What makes you so special that you deserve a website?
I've been getting questions about Kristen's Guide as well as questions about lil' ol' me, and I thought I would make it a bit easier for everyone to get answers by updating the Who's Kristen page and adding a What is Kristen's Guide page. Enjoy.
Here's the link to the new What is Kristen's Guide page (from there you can get to the Who's Kristen page):
http://www.kristensguide.com/what_is_kristensguide.asp
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Chubby Buddies: The weight loss journal has been updated
Posted: 2007-04-02
If you're following my weight loss journal, you'll find another entry on the site.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/index.asp
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Get free content for your web page or profile.
Posted: 2007-03-28
If you have a web page, or a social networking profile that allows you to post javascript code, you can get a Kristen's Guide Idea Box for your page (free, of course).
The Kristen's Guide Idea Box is a small box (120 px wide) that displays a helpful idea to inspire your website visitors to improve their lives by making little changes. A new idea appears every time the page refreshes, so they'll always have something new to see each time they visit or reload the page. If you put the code on multiple pages, they'll see a new idea with each new page they visit.
The first idea box is all about simplifying life and you can get the code at
http://www.kristensguide.com/rotators/index.asp
More idea boxes are in the works, so stay subscribed to find out when new ones are available.
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Attn. Weight Loss Buddies: Journal update
Posted: 2007-03-26
I've finally posted a recent update to my online weight loss journal. For those of you who were wondering, no I didn't quit trying to lose weight or quit posting to my journal. It was just a little break. Read on...
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/Weight_Loss_Journal/2007_march.asp
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Spring Cleaning: Time to Get Rid of the Clutter
Posted: 2007-03-22
It's that time of year again. Open your windows. Set up your boxes and paper bags. Get ready for Spring Cleaning!
The first step to cleaning is to throw out the trash (obviously).
The second step is to declutter your home. Get rid of the extra objects that are taking up space, time, and energy in your life.
The first thing I often hear is, "I don't know what to throw out or what to keep."
Well, I just updated a few ideas to help you figure out which item is a piece of clutter and which is a piece of treasure.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Organizing/Organize_Space/is_it_clutter.asp
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How to Handle Difficult Personalities
Posted: 2007-03-14
We all know them. We have to deal with them from time to time. They drive you nuts. They're difficult persons.
Maybe it's a co-worker, a customer, a "friend," a neighbor, a family member, ... Whomever they are, they bring stress to your life. Here are a few ideas to help you deal with difficult individuals and how to save yourself from the stress they cause.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Dealing_With_People/dealing_with_conflicting_persona.asp
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Introducing Tidbits from Kristen's Guide
Posted: 2007-03-11
Kristen's Guide Updates is strictly about updates to the Kristen's Guide website. However, I have had several persons ask me to create a blog feed that contained actual articles. I already write so much that I said, "There's just no way that I can have time to start another writing project." Then I had an idea: tidbits.
A tidbit is a choice morsel. Tidbits from Kristen's Guide are exactly that, choice morsels of sections from Kristen's Guide, a website dedicated to helping persons like you have happiness by developing healthier habits, more hopeful philosophies, and the power to take control of their lives.
Add the feed to your homepage or RSS reader: http://feeds.feedburner.com/TidbitsFromKristensGuide
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Host Server Problems
Posted: 2007-03-11
Just FYI: my host server is "currently experiencing technical difficulties," which means that you may go to my site and get an error message.
No, the site didn't disappear, so don't delete it from your bookmarks just yet. I'm hoping my host will have the problem fixed ASAP.
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Which free printables do you want?
Posted: 2007-03-11
I want to know what printables you want to see. I'm planning on making a new batch of printables as well as tweaking the current printables to make them even better. The biggest debate is where to start.
Is there a printable you would like me to make but don't see it listed?
Is there a printable that you would like to see updated or improved?
Go to http://www.kristensguide.com/Printables/index.asp and drop me a note in the suggestion box. The most frequently suggested printable will be designed first.
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How to Sell Things Online
Posted: 2007-03-10
I've been talking to lots of people who have dreams of running their own stores. Stores that have customers wandering in from the streets are inviting and fun, but they can require a huge investment to start up. The Internet has made it easier than ever for anyone to open a store with little or now startup fees (assuming you already have a computer and an Internet connection). Online stores are everywhere. So how can you join the dream of being an entrepreneur with your own retail shop?
Here's a quick guide for anyone who wants a few ideas about where to start:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Business/sell_things_online.asp
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More Home Based Business Ideas
Posted: 2007-03-08
If you want to start a business, even just to help you earn a few extra dollars on weekends, but you still don't know what to do, I've been looking around and getting more ideas to spark your inner entrepreneur.
Visit http://www.kristensguide.com/Business/business_ideas.asp to get inspired.
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I'm back!
Posted: 2007-03-03
I just got back from vacation, Disney World. I didn't have an Internet connection, so I couldn't post anything while I was gone (not that I would have had the energy to do it anyhow). I've missed you all dearly, and for those of you who thought I fell off the face of the Earth, I didn't.
So what have I learned from my experience... more travel tips.
OK, so I haven't updated the travel pages yet, it's all in my head, but it will be updated soon. I've also spent lots of time thinking about various topics and new ideas and plan to add many more articles and printables to the site. I'll be sure to let everyone know when they're up.
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OK, OK, I'll be your friend.
Posted: 2007-02-20
I've had a few people ask me to set up a MySpace page for my Kristen's Guide website. Apparently, some of my website visitors would like to be friends with me. (Am I really that interesting?)
If you would like to be my friend, just go to http://www.myspace.com/kristensguide and add me. You'll get to see my sillier side, and I'd love to get to know a bit more about all of you.
Happy day!
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Help Find Missing Kids
Posted: 2007-02-19
Next time you visit Kristen's Guide, take a moment to view the home page http://www.kristensguide.com where you can view photos of missing children posted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
You never know; that nice kid down the street may be a missing child waiting to be found.
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Download the 2007 Weekly Calendar Fix
Posted: 2007-02-16
If you bought the Kristen's Guide Task-Based Weekly Household Planner & Calendar 2007 from Lulu Press prior to Feb 7, 2007, you'll need to download a corrected page.
(Yes, yes, I made a boo boo. So sorry. Please let me know if you find any additional boo boos, and I'll be sure to correct those as well. :-)
http://www.kristensguide.com/Printables/Calendars/2007_Weekly_Calendar_task_based_fix_march.pdf
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So you've always wanted to start a home-based business...
Posted: 2007-02-12
I know you want to be in business for yourself. We all do. No bosses to worry about. You get all the profits instead of seeing it go to the big wigs upstairs while you collect your humble paycheck. You have the prestige of saying, "yes, I own my own business." It's a dream many of us have, and it's easier than you think.
The first thing you'll need to know is what you want to do. Here are some ideas...
http://www.kristensguide.com/Business/business_ideas.asp
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Realizing Your Significance: a key to happiness
Posted: 2007-02-11
One of the main reasons we don't feel happy is because we don't feel significant.
See http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Significance/need_significance.asp
We can instantly improve our self-esteem and increase the level of happiness in your lives if we realize that we already are significant and have the ability to be more significant that we have ever imagined we could be.
Today is the day to realize your significance:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Happiness/Significance/realizing_your_significance.asp
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Etiquette and Manners: How to Be a Good Host
Posted: 2007-02-01
If you (or your children) plan on having friends visit your home, there are a few things you should know. Here are some tips to make life easier for you and your guests.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Etiquette/how_to_be_a_good_host.asp
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My Favorite Programs (and most of them are free, free, free!)
Posted: 2007-01-26
It's that time of year again... time to update my software to the latest and greatest, and I'm sharing my favorites with you. I do the hours of researching, installing, testing, and uninstalling, so you don't have to.
http://www.kristensguide.com/Computers/favorite_software.asp
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Homemade Skincare Cosmetics
Posted: 2007-01-12
We spend so much money on cosmetics to help our skin look better, but there are lots of products sitting in our kitchen that can do the job for much less money. True, these kitchen cosmetics don't have the high concentrations that you'll find in drug-store cosmetics, but use them daily and you will see improvements over time.
My favorites: lemon juice applied as toner and plain yogurt (real yogurt, not the stuff with fillers and gelatin) applied as a mask
See more homemade skincare products at http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Beauty/homemade_skin_care_products.asp
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How many calories do you burn?
Posted: 2007-01-08
The Kristen's Guide weight loss profile calculator has been updated with a whole list of activities and the number of calories you burn while doing those activities. You can also calculate the number of calories you burn per day just by entering in the number of hours you do various activities.
The profile page is printable, meaning that when you print the page, only the report will print (not the ads, navigation, form questions, etc.). The printout is perfect for putting in your weight loss journal. You can even print it to a PDF (if you have a virtual PDF printer installed on your computer) and save the page in an electronic journal.
Get your weight loss routine off to a good start by getting your free weight loss profile at
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/weight_loss_profile_calculator.asp
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Starting is the easy part. Staying motivated is nearly impossible.
Posted: 2007-01-04
It's easy to start a weight loss program. Staying on it is the hard part.
We're programmed to avoid change. Find that comfort zone and stay there! But, if you want to lose weight, you have to change. You have to change what you eat, how you eat, where you eat, how you get more active, where you exercise, your daily routine, your habits, everything. We're often tempted to fall right back into that comfort zone, with a giant glass of chocolate milk topped with whipped cream and that huge plate of cookies while sitting in front of the television and zoning out all day.
You can overcome the temptation to slip back into your old, unhealthy, weight gaining, fat lifestyle, but it's going to take some motivation. Here's are some of my favorite motivation ideas:
http://www.kristensguide.com/Health/Weight_Loss/ways_to_stay_motivated.asp
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It's 2007. Do you know where your resolutions are?
Posted: 2007-01-03
In previous years, I've made the typical resolutions:
Get Organized: If I were more organized, I'd have to be placed in an institution.
Lose Weight: I'm already doing that. :-)
Remember Everyone's Birthdays: Let's just be honest; that's not going to happen.
Remember Everyone's Names: That's even less likely than remembering birthdays.
Officially Become a Writer: Yup, I'm living that dream.
Start a Business: It's modest, but my monthly self-employed income is now enough to pay a single utility bill. Woo Hoo!
Be a Better Person: Really, I never understood exactly what that meant.
Give Up Bad Habits: But then I wouldn't be quirky anymore (whine).
Give More to Charity: UNICEF already gets a hunk of my income, Goodwill is thoroughly stocked with items I've donated, the local school fundraisers already have my spare change, aluminum cans, and pizza money, and I still make time to volunteer.
Get Famous-But-Not-Too-Famous: If you're reading this, then that's fame enough for me.
This year, I've decided to try something new. For 2007, I resolve to not make any resolutions.
It's not that I have anything against resolutions. I love setting goals. I just feel like I'm finally in a place where I feel like I'm doing just fine. I'm sure I could be doing better at everything, but I've found a happy balance, and I'd rather not interrupt it; I'm sure the universe will find a way to interrupt it for me, and I have no intentions of helping it along. I just want to take time to enjoy this happy time I've been blessed with.
Happy New Year, everyone! Enjoy your blessings.
(And no, I have no site update to report at this moment, but I plan to be busy adding new things during this next month, so stay tuned.)
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