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	<title>Offsetting.net</title>
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	<pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:20:50 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Rome: Piazza Venezia and Other Jewels</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/27/rome-piazza-venezia-and-other-jewels/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/27/rome-piazza-venezia-and-other-jewels/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:20:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Regional]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Traveling Tips]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[hotel rome]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[hotels rome]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[rome]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[rome reservation]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Purpose of this article is to introduce hidden treasures and places in Rome unknown to the mass but enchanting for their beauty and historical value; advises and reviews on Hotels in Rome.
Planning an Itinerary to Rome can be difficult if you are unsure of what to visit: sometimes it&#8217;s better to take a Rome Tour. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Purpose of this article is to introduce hidden treasures and places in Rome unknown to the mass but enchanting for their beauty and historical value; advises and reviews on <a href="http://en.reserver.it">Hotels in Rome</a>.</p>
<p>Planning an Itinerary to Rome can be difficult if you are unsure of what to visit: sometimes it&#8217;s better to take a <a href="http://www.siteseeings.com">Rome Tour</a>. This article gives some insight to some must places of the Eternal City.<br /><b>Must see places in Rome:</b></p>
<p>
<b>Santa Maria degli Angeli</b><br />Ancient Roman thermal Baths restored by Michelangelo to become one of the most imposing Roman Basilicas</p>
<p>
<b>Piazza Venezia</b><br />The geographic centre of Rome. At the centre the white imposing mass of the Altare della Patria, tells the story of Italy in the marbles of its relieves.</p>
<p>
<b>San Clemente</b><br />The story of Rome in a church. Many levels on top of each other which speak of various events and cultures, persons and cults, men and divinities. An absolute must for all visits to Rome.</p>
<p>
<b>Via della Conciliazione</b><br />The monumental entrance to the Vatican, created as an expression of the historic concordate between the Fascist state and the Catholic Church.</p>
<p>
The reservation is simple as 1-2-3: check the availability for <a href="http://www.submission.it/reservations_--p-cit--d-1--l-0.html">hotels in Rome</a>, find which hotel or Rome accommodation best fits your needs, and proceed to the reservation filling a form and proceeding to a secure payment in credit card.</p>
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		<title>Finding the Cruise of your Dreams</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/22/finding-the-cruise-of-your-dreams/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/22/finding-the-cruise-of-your-dreams/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:35:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/22/finding-the-cruise-of-your-dreams/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Cruising is a favorite pastime for many vacationers craving a break from land. Cruises offer many activities which are set apart from any other getaway. For most of us, however, cruises may come once in a blue moon and planning for your perfect trip may seem stressful. This fear is certainly justifiable when a supposed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Cruising is a favorite pastime for many vacationers craving a break from land. Cruises offer many activities which are set apart from any other getaway. For most of us, however, cruises may come once in a blue moon and planning for your perfect trip may seem stressful. This fear is certainly justifiable when a supposed action filled senior trip turns into 7 days of senior citizens and shuffleboard. This scenario can be prevented by planning ahead. Preparation cannot be stressed enough.</p>
<p>The great thing about cruises is the many varieties which are offered customers. Think about what you want from your perfect cruise; is it a romantic honeymoon, a fun-filled family experience, or maybe you are just wanting a secluded quiet trip to &#8220;get away from it all&#8221;. Because people have many different reasons to take a cruise, many types are offered, and once you know exactly what you are looking for, you can begin your quest for the perfect vacation.</p>
<p>When deciding on the perfect cruise, here are a few suggestions:</p>
<p>1. Decide ahead of time what amenities you want to be offered on your cruise - If you are one of those high school seniors and don&#8217;t want to spend your nights playing bingo, research your cruise lines and see what accommodations they offer. Each cruise line is centered around a specific lifestyle. A look at the activities and events planned will give you some clue as to what kind of theme a certain cruise line is going for. If you are still not entirely sure, don&#8217;t be afraid to talk to customer support or even a travel agent.</p>
<p>2. Choose by destination - Cruises are not always about the ship. Keep in mind that you will be venturing to different islands and countries. There may be a certain place or culture you wish to see. Try to find a liner that will carry you there. If you are vacationing with someone else, make sure you both agree on the destination of your cruise line. These ventures can be a great experience for both of you.</p>
<p>3. Look at the ratings - Cruises are ranked by stars much like hotels. The highest being a five star rating and the highest in that category having a plus attached at the end (three plus stars, for instance). Paying attention to these can also clue you in on what type of cruise line you are looking at. For instance, most five stars will generally be more classy and formal while some three star lines will be much more suited for families and younger vacationers. A good suggestion would be to find the type of cruise line you want and then choosing the highest ranking line in that category.</p>
<p>4. Find the cabin you want - On some liners, there can be anywhere from three to twenty cabin options. Many people think they won&#8217;t spend much time in their cabin and will try to get the best deal. This may work for some, but remember, your cabin is the only place away from the crowd and especially on longer trips, there will be many days out to sea where you will have plenty of idle time to relax in your room. If you think a closet size room with no windows and a bunk bed will not drive you crazy, then go ahead and save some money. Keep in consideration the accommodations, service, surroundings and amount of time you will want to spend outside or your cabin.</p>
<p>5. If you are working with a travel agent, make sure to ask plenty of questions - Your travel agent should be interested in your needs, not just what gives them more commission. Make sure they&#8217;ve been on a few cruises themselves so they can reflect on personal experience, and make sure they ask you plenty of questions.</p>
<p>Browsing around will help greatly in your search for the perfect cruise. You will certainly benefit from planning ahead by enjoying the best vacation you can expect.</p>
<div style="float: right; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: white; background-color: white"></div>
<p>Briana Liebmann is a regular writer of original content articles for <a href="http://www.youseekit.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.youseekit.com</a>, where you can find original content on a variety of topics.</p>
<p>The original article can be found at <a href="http://www.youseekit.com/cruises.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.youseekit.com/cruises.htm</a></p>
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		<title>Buying a Canadian Canoe</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/21/buying-a-canadian-canoe/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/21/buying-a-canadian-canoe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:35:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/21/buying-a-canadian-canoe/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Before you start 
 The first thing to decide upon is probably your budget, a family canoe will set you back anything from a couple of hundred pounds for an old second hand model to a couple of thousand pounds plus if you want to get ultra techy, it is both pointless and depressing spending [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Before you start <br />
 The first thing to decide upon is probably your budget, a family canoe will set you back anything from a couple of hundred pounds for an old second hand model to a couple of thousand pounds plus if you want to get ultra techy, it is both pointless and depressing spending time investigating makes and models which are financially out of reach to you, &#038; please don&#8217;t be put off by the prices at top end of the market, the Coleman Journey for example is very capable for the uses most families would demand of a Canadian Canoe and you will get up to 363 Kgs worth of family or friends on the water for around &#163;500 &#8230;.Consider capacity rather than the number of seats&#8230;. when you think of it, the natives of the sport in Canada never had seats, they simply kneel as do purists of the sport in the uk, consider that seats can simply provide a level of comfort for some of the occupants.</p>
<p>A make such as Old Town are very much worth a look as they tend to make different canoes for different uses, for example if weight is a consideration for you (how will I get it on my car?) there are solutions through the use of materials such as Royalex which has a high strength to weight ratio which can result in a family canoe at only 26kg  &#8230;check out the Old Town site for some good descriptors of canoe types and uses.</p>
<p>Next consider the type of paddling you would envisage doing (camping trips, white water, day trips on small twisty rivers, or exploring big open lakes, sometimes solo, sometimes with friends, etc etc)  and measure that against the following rule of thumb charecteristics which will seem obvious to many but I hope will help the newcommer.</p>
<p>Features to consider</p>
<p>- A longer canoe will tend to track straighter.</p>
<p>- A longer canoe will go faster</p>
<p>- A canoe with keel will tend to track straighter.</p>
<p>- A shorter canoe will manoeuvre more readily (a plus in fast moving water)</p>
<p>- A shorter canoe will not track as well in a straight line</p>
<p>- A canoe with a flat bottom will have more initial stability, (will feel stable on calm water)</p>
<p>- A canoe with a round bottom has greater secondary stability. (this stability kicks in if you lean out as if trying to tip over the canoe)</p>
<p>- A wider canoe will be more stable</p>
<p>- A wider canoe will be slower</p>
<p>- A narrower canoe will be less stable</p>
<p>- A narrower canoe will be faster</p>
<p>- A pointed bow will go faster</p>
<p>- A large &#8216;rocker&#8217; (the curve along the keel line) will more maneuverable ie be more suited to white water and sharp turns.</p>
<p>- A canoe with Flare&#8230; the side walls open out towards the top, has good secondary stability</p>
<p>- A canoe with Tumblehome&#8230;. Side walls come in towards the top, has less secondary stability.</p>
<p>- A canoe with a greater volume will tend to have a greater capacity</p>
<p>You will probably not be able to get the perfect match for all of the attributes you feel you may need, the best advice is to chery pick the 2 or 3 features you really must have and see what craft measure up against those features, we would always encourage people to visit us or other reputable dealers, look us up on line or give us a call to talk through options and maybe see the variations for yourself, we do (as do some other dealers) have a demo fleet and are happy to put you on the water to try out some types of canoes or enrol you on one of our 2 star BCU open canoe courses. We would always reccommend some basic instruction, though not essential it can really increase the pleasure you get from canoeing.</p>
<p>There will of course be some further expense relating to such things as buoyancy aids (a must!) and paddles but these can work out relatively cheaply particularly if you make use of the bargains to be found on ebay and we shall of course be happy to talk you through the options in these areas.</p>
<p>Finally we would always advise people to join the BCU (British Canoe Union) as they are the greatest single source of help and advice. These guys have information about access rights &#038; licences, competitions, training, youth activities, local canoe clubs and much much more.</p>
<p>Conclusion<br />
 We paddle a Canadian as a family of 4, and our young children love it, its great to have an activity that we all do together as opposed to the all too often trend for families to go in separate directions for their leisure, the perspective you get from a river is unique, you feel you really could be anywhere in the world not to mention the wild life you are privileged to see, we&#8217;ll often throw in a tent on a trip just for good measure making the whole experience a real family adventure, if you are considering taking the plunge we can only say we don&#8217;t think you (or the kids) will be dissapointed, you only live once so why not go for it.</p>
<p>Please call us with any questions at all and if we can we will help, if we can&#8217;t we can usually point you in the right direction. See you on the water!</p>
<p>Regards Jenny and Terry of The Family Adventure Store in Wiltshire</p>
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		<title>Realy terrific laptops to be won at Dutch windeprijsvraag</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/realy-terrific-laptops-to-be-won-at-dutch-windeprijsvraag/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/realy-terrific-laptops-to-be-won-at-dutch-windeprijsvraag/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:17:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Gaming Parlor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Internet Fun]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Universe Of Shopping]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[windeprijsvraag]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[That will be absolutely fantastic or super to win 3657 euro. Although some sweepstakes ask for a proof of purchase or UPC code, the sponsors must provide an alternate method of entry if they do so. Many more sweepers are choosing to enter online sweepstakes. Many state lotteries also run a second chance sweepstakes in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>That will be absolutely fantastic or super to win 3657 euro. Although some sweepstakes ask for a proof of purchase or UPC code, the sponsors must provide an alternate method of entry if they do so. Many more sweepers are choosing to enter online sweepstakes. Many state lotteries also run a second chance sweepstakes in conjunction with the retail sale of state lottery scratch cards. Fantastic cash prizes to win at online sweepstakes. That should be terrific or really great to win 7995 euros. Consumer promotions advertised as contests, however, can require an entry fee or proof of purchase. 2 months ago a European webcompany started a dutch online contests. Really anyone can win marvelous prizes every 17 days. Great TVs to be won at sweepstakes websites. In an effort to increase consumer demand for scratch cards and to help control the litter small problems associated with the disposal of non-winning lottery tickets. Realy terrific plasmas to win at dutch online sweepstakes. The reason why contests are treated differently is that the winners are not chosen by chance but by an element of skill. Really everybody can win absolutely fantastic Ipods every 19 weeks. Super electrical tools to win at contest websites. 6 hours ago a Dutch dutch online company has started with a sweepstakes websites. Sweepstakes are also legally different from contests in the United States. It should be terrific or marvelous to win 8739 dollar. This saves entrants time and effort. 4 days ago a Europe based company took of a contest websites. Thats really great or fantastic to win 8173 dollars. There are also other online services, which automatically enter members into sweepstakes. Entering sweepstakes by mail is declining in popularity. Sweepstakes are frequently used by fast-food restaurants to boost business. Members sign up once and are entered to various sweepstakes each month. Sweepstakes are generally easier and quicker to enter than contests. Sweepstakes promotions are prohibited from requiring a purchase to enter. You can win great Porches every 14 hours at <a href="http://goldenboar.com/windeprijsvraag/" title="contests by windeprijsvraag.nl">contests by windeprijsvraag.nl</a>. 3 weeks ago a Belgium dutch company begun with a online sweepstakes. Realy terrific speedboats to be won at dutch online contests. 9 months ago a European online company begun with a dutch online sweepstakes. Anyone can win terrific computers every 20 months. Before home computers were popular a common method of entry was a mailed one.</p>
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		<title>Online Debt Consolidation Services - Lower Your Monthly Payments Now</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/online-debt-consolidation-services-lower-your-monthly-payments-now/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/online-debt-consolidation-services-lower-your-monthly-payments-now/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:19:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/online-debt-consolidation-services-lower-your-monthly-payments-now/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Consumers looking for a way out of debt may want to consider the services of a debt consolidation firm. If you are spending more money than you can reasonably afford each month on paying credit card bills, medical bills, or other types of unsecured debt, a debt consolidation firm may be able to help you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Consumers looking for a way out of debt may want to consider the services of a debt consolidation firm. If you are spending more money than you can reasonably afford each month on paying credit card bills, medical bills, or other types of unsecured debt, a debt consolidation firm may be able to help you become debt free much faster than you ever expected. Instead of making several large monthly payments to each of your creditors, the debt consolidation firm can show you how to make only one monthly payment at a much lower monthly cost.</p>
<p>As unlikely as it may seem, your creditors pay most of the costs associated with debt consolidation. Creditors understand that receiving lower payments from you each month and lowering your interest rates is preferable to your filing bankruptcy or simply becoming unable to pay at all. Debt consolidation will allow the creditor to at least recover the principal amount owed on your account. The creditor will get a tax write-off on any lost money owed to them in the form of interest and you will still pay the original debt.</p>
<p>If you are like numerous other consumers who have found themselves unable to pay even the minimum payments on your credit cards and unsecured debts, contacting a debt consolidation firm can be the best decision you will ever make. One monthly payment instead of many and sometimes dramatically lower payment amounts can relieve you of the stress you currently feel, stop creditors phone calls, and help you get out of debt a lot sooner than you could on your own.</p>
<p>Debt consolidation firms do not simply give you another loan in order to pay off your debts. A debt consolidation firm will give you a free consultation, explain to you in detail how they can help you lower your monthly payments, and inform you of how long it will take you to become debt free by using their services. Within days or hours of contacting a debt consolidation firm, you can be on your way to financial freedom and start saving money each and every month due to the lower interest rates you may be able to receive.  Consolidating your debt can be a huge relief from a financial burden and give you the breathing room you need.</p>
<p>To view our recommended debt consolidation companies, visit:<br />
Recommended Debt<br />
Consolidation Companies.</p>
<div style="float: left; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: white; background-color: white"></div>
<p>Carrie Reeder is the owner of ABC Loan<br />
Guide, an informational website with articles and the latest news about<br />
various types of loans.</p>
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		<title>Doc Johnson onto a Winner with the Pretty &#038; Pink Glass Dildo</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/doc-johnson-onto-a-winner-with-the-pretty-pink-glass-dildo/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/18/doc-johnson-onto-a-winner-with-the-pretty-pink-glass-dildo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:42:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Products]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Dildo]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Sex Aid]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[
Not only is it fun but, the Pretty &#038; Pink is produced with non-harmful PVC, so you can be sure that it is completely harmless to handle. The Pretty &#038; Pink is also equipped with an additional vibrator package, this really is a dildo of the highest performance. The toy has specially made ticklers at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
<p>Not only is it fun but, the Pretty &#038; Pink is produced with non-harmful PVC, so you can be sure that it is completely harmless to handle. The Pretty &#038; Pink is also equipped with an additional vibrator package, this really is a <a href="http://www.theatons.com">dildo</a> of the highest performance. The toy has specially made ticklers at the base, that can raise your sex to another league. This dildo can be found in a number of lengths, widths and colours. The pliable material of the Pretty &#038; Pink allows for penetration at angles that are rarely possible through normal intercourse, allowing one to find new and stimulating found enjoyment and hither to un explored  parts of your body. </p>
<p>The Pretty &#038; Pink is a top selling sex toy for Doc Johnson. It&#8217;s success is due to the products versatility and low price. The Pretty &#038; Pink is perfect for stimulating either of the female erogenous zones.  This marital aid would also be a fantastic first time buy for any individual who does not yet own a dildo. This sex aid is the perfect new addition to any ones collection. Produced for use by two people, but perfect for those lonely nights. </p>
<p>The producer of this vibrator, Doc Johnson are in fact the oldest and most respected businesses involved in the manufacture and design of sex aids. They are producers of a huge selection of different top quality dildos like the Hot Pink as well as the Bendable Dong. Doc Johnson are known for being extremely cost competitive, so you can buy your vibrator knowing you will never find any a better buy elsewhere. </p>
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		<title>Low-carb Diets: Fad, Fallacy, or Fact?</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/16/low-carb-diets-fad-fallacy-or-fact/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/16/low-carb-diets-fad-fallacy-or-fact/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 16 Aug 2008 14:35:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/16/low-carb-diets-fad-fallacy-or-fact/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The most common and popular diet fad over the past two years has undoubtedly been the low-carb diet.  It has many followers, both in the U.K. and the U.S.A., and its various celebrity endorsements, particularly of the most renowned version, The Atkins Diet, have undoubtedly played a large part in its popularity.  Is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The most common and popular diet fad over the past two years has undoubtedly been the low-carb diet.  It has many followers, both in the U.K. and the U.S.A., and its various celebrity endorsements, particularly of the most renowned version, The Atkins Diet, have undoubtedly played a large part in its popularity.  Is it merely another fad diet designed to hook the diet junkies amongst us and deliver more opportunities for the food manufacturers to create another new product in response to the &#8220;demand&#8221;? Or could it be that it is actually a healthy and effective way of losing and controlling weight?</p>
<p>The whole concept of a &#8220;diet&#8221; is, of course a false one, perpetuated in order to keep the &#8220;diet industry&#8221; in profit and playing on our insecurities and gullibility.  The word diet simply means the food that is customarily eaten on a daily basis. People living in less developed countries and living on a subsistence diet would be totally baffled by the notion that a &#8220;diet&#8221; is a means of eating less in order to lose weight!  However, in the greedy and overfed western world, we either fail to grasp that we eat too much for our needs, or we lack the self control to eat less. Furthermore, we are inundated with<br />
opportunities to eat delicious tempting treats at comparatively low cost, and these items are often those with the highest calorie content.</p>
<p>Many studies have shown that reducing our carbohydrate intake is not only an effective way to control weight but also has a part to play in reducing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, the incidence of which has shown a worrying increase in recent years. It would be a fairly simple step merely to reduce the amount of carbs (bread, rice, potatoes, for example) that we eat on a daily basis.  Over time, we would undoubtedly lose weight.</p>
<p>From the point of view of our long-term health however, we need to take a more scientific approach and look at carbohydrates in terms of &#8220;good&#8221; and &#8220;bad&#8221; ones.  The most commonly consumed carbohydrates in the western world, and particularly the U.K. and U.S.A. are the simple or refined carbohydrates.  These include sugar, white flour, potatoes, white rice and products manufactured from these ingredients.  They are generally low in fibre and nutrients.</p>
<p>On the other hand, the range of complex carbohydrates, which includes whole grains, many fruits and vegetables, beans and pulses are generally high in fibre and nutrients and can make a valuable contribution to our health and well being.  It would be misguided to eliminate these &#8220;good&#8221; carbohydrates from our diet in the interests of short-term weight loss.  Surely it is better to adapt our way of eating on a permanent basis, to one which includes a range of complex carbohydrates, among other elements, and if necessary to just eat less?</p>
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<p>Jon Davis gives you the Low Down on Low Carb foods, diets &#038; recipes, so you can make your own intelligent well formed decisions using <a href="http://www.LowCarb-LowDown.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.LowCarb-LowDown.com</a></p>
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		<title>How to Use Humor to Diffuse Conflict</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/15/how-to-use-humor-to-diffuse-conflict/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/15/how-to-use-humor-to-diffuse-conflict/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2008 06:46:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/15/how-to-use-humor-to-diffuse-conflict/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Before I criticize someone, I walk a mile in their moccasins. That way, if they get mad, they&#8217;re a mile away and barefoot.
Humor used the right way at the right time can be just what you need to diffuse a conflict at work. The credit industry is full of great opportunities to disarm negativity. Diffusing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Before I criticize someone, I walk a mile in their moccasins. That way, if they get mad, they&#8217;re a mile away and barefoot.</p>
<p>Humor used the right way at the right time can be just what you need to diffuse a conflict at work. The credit industry is full of great opportunities to disarm negativity. Diffusing a tense situation can help all parties involved find a mutually satisfying solution more quickly. The trick is to put water, not fuel on the fire. A compassionate and benevolent intention go a long way to choosing the right thing to say. The secret of most good communicators is to choose a playful response in the face of challenge &#8212; not a personal put down, but a response that pokes fun at the situation.</p>
<p>Read the short stories below from other work environments, and then feel free to submit your story (or one you heard).</p>
<p>Paint Department</p>
<p>I client of mine was working at a major home improvement store in the paint department.  When customers have complaints, paint is the last place you want to be, since they usually discover a problem after they have already spread it on their wall.  And special colors are not accepted for return.  One customer got so upset at the man that he said, &#8220;You can take this paint and shove it up your ass!&#8221;  The man responded, &#8220;I&#8217;m sorry sir, you&#8217;re the third person to say that today so I&#8217;m all full of paint, but I&#8217;ll be open for more tomorrow.&#8221;  The customer laughed and they were able to move on. (contributed by Stevie Ray)</p>
<p>Office Manager</p>
<p>This email was from my office manager who was taking care of my business while I was on vacation:</p>
<p>Dear Elaine - I am sorry for the delay in returning your email. I had to go with the police when they apprehended the man in the ski mask trying to steal your bank deposit. My broken arm should be healed within six weeks. Also, my son got his cute little hands on one of those permanent markers when I left him in the waiting room. The place kind of needed a paint job, though - don&#8217;t you think? You&#8217;ll be pleased to know that we decided on hot pink in your absence. The painters will be done later today and it only cost $2000 because they are high school students. See you soon, Jeannette.   P.S. There was no armed robbery, or broken arm or hot pink paint job. But, I did forget to do the bank deposit and need Friday off again&#8230;.so I just wanted to make sure you kept it all in perspective. (contributed by Elaine Robinson)</p>
<p>Time Deadline</p>
<p>Our manager was pushing the IT technician to fix a huge computer breakdown in under half a day.  The technician was getting frustrated at the unreasonable request, but rather than push back with resistance, he said, &#8220;Actually, I only need two hours.  The other two I&#8217;ll be using to cure world hunger.&#8221;  They both laughed and the manager mellowed out. (contributed by Linda Johnson)</p>
<p>Smaller Budget</p>
<p>A client kept returning our budget proposal saying it needed to be smaller.  No matter how much trimming we did, the client kept pushing for &#8220;Smaller, smaller!&#8221;  I finally took the proposal to a copier and had it reduced to two inches in size.  I sent it to the client and said, &#8220;This is about as small as I can make it.  Tell me what you think.&#8221; He called me saying it got a huge laugh in his office and that he would now accept the proposal as soon as he could find his magnifying glass. (contributed by Frank Freedman)</p>
<p>Super Size Urn</p>
<p>A funeral director was helping a grieving widow choose an urn for her husband&#8217;s ashes. Her husband was a man who enjoyed the finer things in life; he had a hearty build; a rotund, Santa-like exterior. The funeral director was trying to find a diplomatic way to tell her that the urn size should be extra-large. When she inquired as to the selection available, he simply said small, medium, large and Super Size. She looked up and there was a brief pause. Not knowing what to do, he said&#8230;.&#8221;and today Super Size is only fifty cents more&#8221;.  She replied somberly, &#8220;Wilbur always went for Super Size.&#8221; There was another pause - and then they both laughed. She later told him that little encounter really helped her release the stress of the situation. (contributed by Vanessa Miller)</p>
<p>Have you ever used to humor to diffuse tension, disarm negativity, or build rapport at work? We want your stories. Please send them to the email address below and you will receive a free eBook.</p>
<div style="float: right; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: white; background-color: white"><img height="90" width="67" src="http://ezinearticles.com/members/mem_pics/Carla-Rieger_10554.jpg" border="0" alt="Carla Rieger - EzineArticles Expert Author"></div>
<p>Carla Rieger is an expert on creative people skills at work. If you want a motivational speaker, trainer, or leadership coach to help you stay on the creative edge, contact Carla Rieger.</p>
<p>Web site: <a href="http://www.carlarieger.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.carlarieger.com</a><br />
 Tel: 1-866-294-2988<br />
 Email carla@carlarieger.com</p>
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		<title>Massive Companies Bring High Speed Notebooks to the Masses</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/14/massive-companies-bring-high-speed-notebooks-to-the-masses/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/14/massive-companies-bring-high-speed-notebooks-to-the-masses/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2008 02:25:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[House Of Technology]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/14/massive-companies-bring-high-speed-notebooks-to-the-masses/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Can you think back to the era when gaming notebooks were not so accessible? For the resellers they were hugely profitable despite not selling in many volumes. Despite that people probably wanted one. Everyone reckoned they were the best laptop computers and rightly so. Regardless of the excitement caused I doubt they were amazing sellers [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Can you think back to the era when gaming notebooks were not so accessible? For the resellers they were hugely profitable despite not selling in many volumes. Despite that people probably wanted one. Everyone reckoned they were the best laptop computers and rightly so. Regardless of the excitement caused I doubt they were amazing sellers because I don&#8217;t believe buyers would buy laptop computers instead of desktops as they were so expensive. As of late it seems larger companies are all entering the sector very quickly and things are shifting.</p>
<p>Lowering prices are not usual is this sector so tier 1 companies would be scooping tons of markup. This would be one of the few margin producing lines they have as they make little on the majority of others because of the massive competition. Small retailers cannot compete with them in persuading potential buyers to buy laptop computers. Smaller companies certainly have an uphill battle now. In my opinion the multinational manufacturers will control the market trends. In my opinion if anybodies going to pay a lot of money the well known brand always comes out on top.</p>
<p>I reckon they surely are making some of the <a href="http://www.rizeon.com">best laptop computers</a> out today. I reckon that littler businesses may yet have an opportunity. Being able to get specifically what components they want is a big advantage for the majority people who are considering purchasing a gaming laptop. I reckon the guys that buy gaming notebooks typically know what they are looking for. For this sort of niche, the specs are generally more important than the appearance.</p>
<p>All purchasers agree that it is a positive change. As this pushes down the prices even further, top end technology will become even more obtainable to the market. I am not quite sure any of that would take place however. New products are continuously being introduced and that should keep prices constantly high. The big brands have already started in the gaming laptop computers division so we will have to look and see what happens I guess.</p>
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		<title>Board and Care Homes - What Are They?</title>
		<link>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/08/board-and-care-homes-what-are-they/</link>
		<comments>http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/08/board-and-care-homes-what-are-they/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2008 03:10:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Life Of Sports]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://offsetting.net/archives/2008/08/08/board-and-care-homes-what-are-they/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Board and Care homes (also known as RCFE&#8217;s - Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly) are residential private homes that have been licensed by the Department of Social Services to provide services to seniors. Most accept no more than six residents, but offer a cozy, home-like setting for frail seniors. At least one caregiver is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Board and Care homes (also known as RCFE&#8217;s - Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly) are residential private homes that have been licensed by the Department of Social Services to provide services to seniors. Most accept no more than six residents, but offer a cozy, home-like setting for frail seniors. At least one caregiver is on the premises at all times to assist residents.</p>
<p>Board and care homes come with a variety of characteristics. Rooms can be shared or private and may include a shared or private bathroom. Limited social activities are provided, but not to the extent of an assisted living facility. Specific needs can be met in this small setting, such as language, ethnic or food preferences, even accommodating a loved pet. Meals, laundry, housekeeping, transportation to doctor appointments are usually included. Most provide assistance with dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, medication management, and hygiene and continence issues. With hundreds of these homes scattered throughout most geographic areas, there is hardly a situation that cannot be met in a board and care home.</p>
<p>With most board and care homes, a resident will interact with just three or four caregivers each week. This allows caregivers and residents to form a close bond, which many seniors prefer. Homes range in care giving levels, from simply providing a personal presence for seniors to dealing with severe medical conditions. If fact, some specialize in very specific areas of healthcare and their related needs, such as non-ambulatory residents, stroke or paralysis residents, diabetes care, oxygen needs, catheters, colostomy&#8217;s, and cognitive and memory impairments such as dementia, Parkinson&#8217;s and Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Some medical conditions such as a feeding tubes or tracheotomies cannot be handled by board and care homes.</p>
<p>Generally, Board and Care homes are managed and owned by an individual or family who are closely involved in the day-to-day activities of the home.  Board and care homes are a refreshing alternative to the more business like approach of an assisted living or skilled nursing facility.</p>
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<p>Alex Jensen is with <a href="http://www.careplacement.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.careplacement.com</a> - a free placement service for Southern California. Care Placement&#8217;s staff can review your care requirements to determine whether skilled nursing care, assisted living facilities or board and care homes are a viable option for seniors.</p>
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