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Chapter 5: Privacy features of Google Voice

Like any new application available in the market, the Google Voice application has its benefits and also its downside.

Let us start with the benefits.

Routing - this eliminates the use of having multiple numbers for multiple purposes. After signing up and have a Google Voice number, you can tag all your numbers, mobile, office, home onto this Google number. Then when you get a call, all your phones or any specific phone will ring if you choose. This setting can be managed by the Google router.

Screening - you can choose certain options to do after picking up the call and while the caller still hears the phone ringing. The caller’s name will be shown and you can either answer the call, send it to voicemail, send it to voicemail and listen live or answer and record the call.

Voicemail - You can listen to messages in voicemail live as they are being recorded and pick up call in mid-message. Text transcription of recordings are available.

SMS - All texts sent or received are archived.

Some of its downside.

Privacy - every call and text message is kept in Google servers. Some may be personal and intimate in nature and is now considered public property. Are you comfortable with this knowledge?

Reliability - All technology is fallible. In some of Google’s service outages, there have been failed call recordings as well as unable to receive emails and RSS feeds and call routing to wrong numbers. These are important factors when considering committing to a new system.

Caller-ID - regular calls from your cell phone will show up as your old number. This can be confusing as the number you called from is different from the number you gave out. This can be detrimental especially in cases where businesses are established through Google Voice and there is confusion in communications resulting in lost deals.

Chapter 6: Costs and the final word

You are able to sign up for Google Voice and utilize many of the features for free including making calls to the US and Canada. Here we will look at utilizing Google Voice on your cellular phone might impact your cell phone bill.

Using domestic calls

If you utilize Google Voice on your cell phone, domestic calls will utilize the standard minutes from your cellular phone plan.

Every time you place a call, rather than dialing the number you wish to reach, Google Voice dials a US-based direct access number. The Google Voice server then sends on your call to the actual destination number. This lets faster call setup happen and the power to place calls without a data connection. These direct access numbers might show in your calls log, or on your phone bill.

A unique direct access number is assigned to every person that you call. The direct access numbers are stacked away in the Google Voice application, not in your Contacts. They may be chucked from your phone at any time by signing out of the Google Voice app.

Direct access numbers are delegated randomly, and might include numbers that are out of your local calling area, or even out of state. If you don't have a countrywide calling plan, you might be charged long distance rates by your carrier.

Using international calls

If you utilize Google Voice on your mobile phone, international calls utilize the standard minutes from your cellular phone plan and are charged against your Google Voice credit, at Google Voice international rates. International calls are likewise placed through direct access numbers, as described previously.

For international calls, you ought to hear a cost prompt, which lets you know that the call is going through Google Voice. You ought to hear the prompt for each international call. If you don't hear the prompt, your calling isn't being routed through Google Voice, and might be subject to charges from your provider.

When you have a US based telephone number, and try to place calls via Google Voice while you're in another country, you'll be charged the Google Voice international rates, and might likewise be subject to added roaming fees from your carrier.

Sending and getting text messages

If you utilize Google Voice on your cell phone, text messages are sent with your data plan, as opposed to your text-messaging plan, so there won't be any text messaging charges for messages that you send out to numbers in the U.S.A. or Canada.

Note: when you have your mobile phone listed as one of your forwarding telephones in your Google Voice account, responses will come to the Google Voice app, however will likewise be duplicated in the Android Messaging app. Depending upon your carrier, you might be charged for your received text messages. To disable this and simply have messages sent to the Google Voice app, sign in at voice.google.com, and then go to Settings > Voice settings > Phones > (your mobile number) > Edit > Receive text messages on this phone > Uncheck and Save. Google voice is an awesome tool. Make sure you learn as much as you can and use this as much as you can!

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Chapter 6: Using Mac at work

Mac is a rather popular tool to be used within the work environment as it creates a conducive work platform that help to increase productivity levels without the addition of aggravation and stress.

The simple explanation of being able to get more things done without the intrusions of viruses, spam, crashes and constant need for support, reboots, upgrades, defrags and maintenance are probably the most alluring elements to choose to use Mac.

One of the reasons why Mac has become an increasingly popular choice for work is the element of speed it possesses. A lot more work is done right from the startup mode as there is very little need to wait around for all the relevant applications to be booted and ready for application use.

This is very beneficial to the user who is often pressed for time and unable to wait around for the applications to synchronize and crate the necessary avenues for the work process needed at the time. Another feature is the Mac is able to function almost upon opening the iBook and this is far from possible with other platforms and tools where waiting for all the various downloads is essential.

There is also the easy color calibration and has cause quite a stir when it comes to eye catching displays. This causes everything to look great

and almost lifelike and this is even more beneficial for those engaging in Photoshop exercises.

Getting a wireless connection easily is also another attractive reason why Mac is so popular for work. It would seem that the configuration is not really needed as the Mac is always ready to be logged on anywhere and anytime. These connections with the internet are made easily and instantaneously, and without all the time consuming need for configurations to be incorporated or updated periodically.

Chapter 7: How to print & fax using Mac

Though considered a rather old method of getting information to another corresponding party, these actions are still carried out a lot of the time everywhere around the world. Thus the need to explore the possibility of having this particular formats available by using Mac.

Some would consider faxing a rather tedious task which is slow and provides lower quality exchange mode of information, but it is possible to be able to do so with the use of the Mac.

The Mac OS X makes this process easy to and receiving and sending of faxes from anywhere is possible with the simple use of the Mac with a modem connected to a telephone line suing a standard phone cord.

Once the proper configurations in come the Mac can receive taxes unattended and this can be done even when the system in not logged in at the time.

All that needs to be done would be to ensure the Mac is turned on, awake and connected to the phone line that isn’t linked to be used for voice or data call. There are some steps that should be executed in order to be able to receive the faxes without any glitch.

When it comes to printing, there may not be a need to install further printer software even if it is included in the printer’s makeup. This is due to the fact that many printers allow the recognition process when linked to the Mac OS X without any supporting applications needed.

The user would need to connect the USB port or FireWire port using the appropriate cable. The user would also have to ensure the documentation that came with the printer is in place and in the turned on mode, if this is not in place the user may have to download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s site.

Chapter 8: Managing music with iTunes

Mac can also be successfully used to manage iTunes and this is a feature that does contribute to the popularity of Mac. However the user should be aware that there are quite a few different applications that can be used by Mac for the iTunes managing process.

The following are some of these as depicted according to its popularity and accompanying features:

The desk top controller resides in the OS X menu bar and offers the user a quick and easy way to maneuver between and rate the tracks on the system used. The user would simply have to click on the menu display and all the current information, along with several menus for selecting artists, playlists and recently played music will be depicted clearly for viewing. The feature is usually offered for free and the developer is You Software and requires the use of Mac OS 10.4 or 10.5 platforms.

Sizzling keys is also another place on the list that allow the selecting of songs to be played to be much easier. This can be done while providing a pleasant visual feedback of what the user is listening to at any given time. There is usually a nominal charge of just under $5 and the developer is the Yellow Mug which uses the Mac OS X 10.4 or iTunes 8.1.x

CoverSutra offers a decent range of features too. Some of which are iTunes control with a stunning interface and integrates will with the

Last.fm system. However this particular element can be quite expensive for such simple performance extensions but it is will considered interesting enough to merit some consideration. It usually comes with a price tag of about $20 and the developer is Sophistication and requires the use of Mac OS x Leopard.

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Chapter 6: The importance of the grips

The general rule of thumb to go by would be to find a grip that is most suitable for the individual as it is not a one size fit all kind of concept. The grip will not only determine the quality of play that the player eventually displays but can also affect the body conditions negatively.

Basically it would be better to start with a smaller grip size and then make adjustments until the grip size is both comfortable and safe for the user. If the grip used is unsuitable, there would be some twisting of the hand to, execute the stoke each time it is executed, thus contributing to the tennis elbow syndrome. This is a rather painful condition and would almost always require the attention of a medical professional.

The ideal grip size is usually found anywhere between the standard measurements of 4” to 4 and 5/8” and are at about 1/8” in intervals. The grip is often calculated by referring to the circumference of the grip the individual makes when holding the racquet. In order to get an estimation of the most appropriate grip size, a ruler should be placed at the bottom of the horizontal crease in the palm of the hand that is going to be holding the racquet. The measurement is taken from this point to the tip of the ring finger. This will indicate the ideal grip size for the individual. However if there is a need, and additional over grip can the added on which is about 1/16” in size to make the feel more comfortable.

Another method for measuring the grip would be to observe the amount of space between the fleshy part of the pal, and fingertips. Being able to “plug” this gap with the index finger of the other hand comfortably without any looseness or tightness (that doesn’t allow the finger in), would then give the player a good idea of the suitability of the grip chosen.

Chapter 7: Working on the perfect swing

There are a few set motions to follow in order to be able to execute the perfect tennis swing. By following these motions as closely as possible the individual will be able to master the swing well enough to break the opponent percentage of the ball possession, thus improving the chances of scoring points.

The following are some tips on how to go about perfecting the tennis swing:

Getting ready to receive and return the hit would require the player to keep the racquet in a back position all the time. One the ball is hit by the opponent, the player should immediately react and move to a position that would be ideal to receive and return the ball with a quick and fluid motion.

While establishing the balance in the stance, the player should be aware of allowing the stoke to be played while letting of with the non dominant hand while keeping the racquet pointed away from the intended target at a waist high position. Maintaining enough space between the body and the ball when in the final position to return the shot is important. Always ensuring the ball is hit from a waist high stroke will help to keep the balance and the return stroke accurately placed.

Making contact with ball when the racquet head is positioned at the same height as the hand is important and this should be done while remembering not to bend or straighten the arm. Moving the wrists to accommodate the stroke is also not encouraged as it will change the direction of the contact on the return stroke. Instead the player should be accustomed to rotating the shoulder while keeping an eye on the ball at all times to calculate the ideal return stroke.

Chapter 8: Practice the right spin

Being able to execute varied strokes effectively and efficiently will allow the player to serve better and more competitive strokes and will be present a challenge to the opponent. This will also create the opportunities for the player to score points and win the game easily.

The two main spin techniques would be the topspin and the backspin and being able to execute either one of these with a suitable force, will create ideal circumstances for the possibility of the opponent not being able to take and return the stroke successfully.

A top spin shot is shown when the ball is hit by sliding the racquet up and over the ball as it is being hit. The friction between the racquet’s strings and the ball will cause enough momentum to make the ball spin forward towards the opponent.

This kind of shot will bounce at a lower angle to the ground as the shot dips down after impact. The natural friction caused by the bounce angle will create the topspin as the ball moves towards the opponent’s side of the court.

The backspin shot is executed in an almost opposite manner, where the sliding of the racquet under the ball is positioned just before the return contact is made. Requiring only half the racquet head speed it will cause the ball to generate the ideal backspin or slice that is needed for the return stroke.

In this instance, the player is not required to change the direction of the already spinning ball. If the oncoming ball is already in a topspin motion the, the returning stroke will effectively create the slice hot as the rotation is maintained through the stroke. The direction of the shot can be changes but the ball will continue to spin from top to bottom as it moves away from the player towards the opponent side of the court.

Chapter 9: Mastering forehand and backhand

These two strokes are essentially what make up the game of tennis, and once mastered adequately, the player will be able to initiate a fairly competitive and enjoyable game play.

The tennis forehand is the most basic and most used stroke for any tennis player. It is also the money making stroke for the professional player in the tennis circuit.

Not necessarily being the easiest of all strokes, it is however the among the more effectively ones that can earn the player a good amount of points.

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Chapter 6: Record Skype conversation & videos

Skype does not have a built-in feature to save or record calls or video calls. The use of third party software, add-on or plugin is required if recording is needed.

There are many in the market. The popular ones are:

Vodburner - this software has a trial offer. So you can download it and try it out during the trial period. If it is good then go ahead and buy it. If not then try other software. This software has a 3 of 5 star rating.

Supertintin Recorder - this software has a trial offer. This software is recommended for Windows users. It is rated as the best for Skype in the Windows category with a 4 of 5 star rating. The software is lightweight, reliable and produces good consistent recording quality. eCamm - this software is recommended for Mac users. The feedback from users of this software is good and is highly recommended. Easy to use and not complicated.

Evaer video recorder - this software has a trial offer. This high quality, easy to use software has excellent Skype video and audio features and is very affordable compared to others.

Pamela - this is a freeware with options to upgrade. The freeware has limitations like 15 minutes recording only.

IMCapture - this software has a trial offer. This software is recommended for businesses also as the recorded file can be converted to most of the popular file formats for audio and video.

It is best to experiment with some of the software applications for Skype. You can do this during the trial periods and see which one suits you best. Some of them may lack the features you require. Some may be very complicated to use. Some may have extra features not found in others. Once you are satisfied which one is best for you, then make the purchase.

Chapter 7: Skypefor business

With features like online chatting, monthly low rates for long distance calls and group video calling, it is no surprise that Skype has more than 500 million registered users. Eventhough individuals make up more than 95% of Skype users, there is a huge user base on Skype that is made up of businesses.

Many businesses have found it extremely beneficial to have Skype as part of their communication highway between themselves and customers. Some businesses have reported communication savings up to 80% which can mean savings between $100 to $10,000 depending on monthly communication expenses.

Online chatting has replaced the old way of calling up a customer to give status on production, delivery or payments. Many companies have stand alone servers with Skype as the default application and this is used to communicate with all their suppliers and customers.

That means no additional expenses for faxes, landline calls, long distance calls etc. Close communication with customers and suppliers ensures good and lasting business relationships. And with the use of group video calling, the savings could be even more substantial.

The expenses incurred by a project team of 3 to 4 persons can cost a company $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the destination. This cost will include accommodation, flight and daily allowances. If the project team makes 6 trips a year, that could amount to $120,000. This amount is huge and much of it can be saved by using group video calling. By using group video calling, 80% of the project work can be done through Skype.

Savings on long distance calls can also be a substantial amount. Some companies with many international clients have monthly landline bills running into the thousands. With Skype, this expense can be lowered by 70% to 80% which is a lot if based on thousands.

Chapter 8: Your virtual office with Skype

Having Skype on your computer and mobile phone will create a virtual office for you and that means not having to be stuck in the office waiting for emails and SMSs. But you must remember to have WiFi connectivity to log onto your Skype account. You must get a basic plan that will allow you unlimited access and downloads from the internet.

When you are not bogged down, you will find that you can do a lot more on a daily basis. With the introduction of Voip as well as the emergence of social networks like facebook and twitter, many individuals have found a new way of life that is more social and mobile.

Many freelance professionals have virtual offices and do not have a permanent office base. Many actually work fom home and prefer this way of life. They say that they have no overheads and are more flexible with time as they are always in touch with associates, friends and family.

Travelling is also easier as they can plan their routines when they are at home and while they are out and not have to worry about returning to an office.

With Skype you can do all your professional work from where you are. You can even have a conference call right in the middle of town while you are on a lunch break or tea break. It also gives your customers confidence that they are able to contact you anytime. Many business relationships are built on trust, confidence and reliability. When your customers know that they can rely on you to deliver as promised, they will remain loyal customers.

And with Skype special low rate offers for long distance calls, expanding your business boundaries becomes a reality. Small price to pay for huge potential rewards.

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Chapter 10 Make a Plan for Change

If you can’t accept what you have in your life and be happy with it, then you need to make a plan for a change. There can be plenty of types of changes that occur to make you happier. Take an inventory of what you need in order to reach true happiness.

Maybe you need to improve relationships with your family and friends. Maybe you need more time for yourself and for your hobbies. Less stress about money can help you to be happier. Accepting yourself and being positive can also be part of the plan for change.

Time

One of the biggest barriers for change is time. People feel that they just don’t have enough of it. By saying no as talked about in a previous chapter, you can open up time. Start to carve out those period of down time on your monthly calendar before you fill it up with everything else.

In order for change to occur, you have to be willing to embrace it. Change isn’t going to come easy, and it can take time and patience. You need a plan of action to help you get there. For example, if you want to become more active, develop a plan that allows you to exercise 30 minutes a day. If the day tends to get away from you, carve out time first thing in the morning. If you are sluggish in the morning though the afternoon may be a better option.

Enjoyable

Next, find activities that you enjoy so that you won’t try to get out of it. Exercise needs to be something you look forward to rather than trying to avoid. When it comes to change, you won’t always get to take part in activities you like. That is where discipline comes into the picture.

When that is the case, think about how enjoyable it is going to be when you do make those changes. Visualize the level of happiness it will give you to stop smoking or to complete your degree. That will help you to be motivated and to move forward with the necessary tasks.

Support

Get encouragement and support from family and friends. Let them know what you want to change and why. If you are surrounding yourself with good people, they will encourage you and be proud of your efforts. This support also holds you to a higher level of accountability than before.

You may find that you get a buddy to help you make the change with too. For example, your spouse may decide they will stop smoking or they will make diet and exercise changes along with you. It sure is easier to do something like that with someone than on your own!

Rewards

Finally, have a way to track your progress and reward your efforts. If you are consistently working out day after day, treat yourself to something such as a new CD or a night at the movies.

You want the rewards to be consistent with what you have in place for your ultimate goal. For example, if you are planning to complete a four year degree, a reward at the end of each completed semester is a good idea. However, you should have a very large reward waiting for yourself come graduation day!

Resources

Keep in mind that you don’t have to take care of everything on your own. There are resources out there to help you with your plans for change. If you want to feel better, talk with your doctor. If you want to eat better, sit down with a dietician. A financial planner can help you with budgeting and with retirement. Use the resources that make it easier for you to have a clear path to your goals.

Write it Down

Your plan of action for change and a happier you should be written down. This makes it more concrete. Have a start date and an end date for reaching your ultimate goal. If the goal is large and long term, break it down so you have mini steps to achieve along the way. Being able to celebrate that success will keep you motivated.

Evaluate

At regular intervals, evaluate your plan of action for change. Are you happier? Do you feel the plan is still working for you? If not, revamp it. You may find that tweaking certain elements of your plan allow you to get beyond any pitfalls that you didn’t foresee in your path.

Chapter 11 Take Care of your Mind and Body

If you want to be happy in life, you need to take care of your mind and your body. The mind and body work in sync with each other so they should be able to offer you the very best. When they aren’t in sync though you have to make an effort to get them back to that point.

Chemicals in the Brain

In order to experience happiness, there are certain chemicals in the brain that must be present. The chemical balance of the brain is very complex. Taking part in exercise will help to release feel good chemicals. Some individuals don’t have the right combination of chemicals that they need.

If that may be the case, medications may be necessary to help regulation them. Many people suffer from mental health concerns including depression that prevent them from being as happy as they would like to be. Talk to a professional about the possibility and see if they can help you to be happier than you thought possible. If all your efforts alone don’t raise that level, this may be the next step to explore.

Lifestyle Habits

The mind needs to rest just like the body does. Getting enough sleep each night is good for the mind and the body. It will provide you with more energy and allow you to be alert. When the mind is sharp, you get more accomplished in less time. You can also be more creative.

Avoid bad habits including drinking excessively, using illegal drugs, and smoking. They can all contribute to serious health problems. It can be hard to stop using such products due to the physical and mental addiction to them. However, there are resources out there that can help offer solutions so you don’t have to feel alone with your efforts.

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All public schools currently use standardized tests to gauge where their students are at. Should a school have low scores, they often get reprimanded by their state department of education. Since there are so many different curriculums, it definitely makes it hard to evaluate correctly though.

For example, students may be learning, but not learning what is on that test. That doesn’t mean they didn’t learn. It just means they didn’t learn the right things that the state is testing them for. It is like comparing apples to oranges and expecting to come up with something that is the same. It simply won’t work!

With the common core, there will be standards in place for learning of each subject area for each grade level. Those learning objectives will be consistent with what is on the standardized tests. So it is comparing apples to apples, and students either know the information and do well on the tests or they don’t. If they don’t, then the state department of education can contact that school and work with them to revamp what they are teaching.

Admin & Educators

Happy staff is going to be a great way to evaluate the quality of the common core. Many teachers complain that they work too hard and too many hours. They are stressed about standardized tests and about coming up with lesson plans. With the common core, they know what they have to teach and there isn’t any guessing involved.

Many educators can feel relaxed and they can plan their lessons accordingly based on those standards that are in place. Admin won’t be looking over their shoulder as much to make sure they are teaching what they should be. This makes for happier teachers and to also frees up time of admin to focus on other tasks.

School Environment

The overall school environment can improve with the common core implemented. The school may have a terrible reputation now due to the programs they teach or the methods. It is time for a clean slate to get things moving forward. With common goals of everyone, there isn’t the push and pull tug of war taking place.

Instead, it is a collective effort for all to engage in. Arguments about what to teach will no longer be an issue. There will be a checklist of what should be covered in each subject in each grade. There won’t be any more comparing this school against that school. There won’t be any more issues with students that are behind when they move to another school district.

Student Happiness

Students that are enjoying what they learn are going to show up for class. They are going to be prepared, they will have good self-esteem, and they will be building on what they have learned and apply it. Students are far less likely to slip through the cracks with the common core curriculum in place.

There will still be lEPs (Individual Education Plans) for students that need them. They will be evaluated along with the common core curriculum to see what can be done realistically to help the child to learn and to get to the point where they should be. The process may not be easy but it can be done with the encouragement of educators and parents.

Parent Feedback

Happy kids at school make for happy parents too. They want to know their child is safe and that they are in a good learning environment. They love seeing their child come home excited about what they learned and feeling good about the new concepts. They also enjoy the meetings with parents that show their child is meeting the standards in place.

Parents also like to be able to see that if their child is behind, what exactly they are behind on. The standards in place give the teachers and parents a checklist to go through and to evaluate. If a child is behind on something, then the parent and the teacher can come up with a plan of action to get resources or one on one help in place.

Everyone gets a Voice

The fact that educators, admin, parents, and even students all play a role in creating the common core curriculum means that it can be evaluated on many different levels. There is clear communication in place about what is expected to be taught, what is expected to be learned, and the standardized tests that will conform what was learned.

Everyone knows exactly what needs to be taught, how to help kids learn, and parents know what they should be studying in a given grade. It takes the guesswork out of the equation and makes education a collaborate effort with everyone involved on the same page. Anyone who has had an issue with a public school about curriculum or the difference between what is taught and standardized testing will really appreciate this.

Focusing on the core concepts, understanding, and processes involved needs to start in the very early grades of students. This helps them to build on it and to grow from it. Students need the encouragement and they shouldn’t be set up to fail. Graduating from high school isn’t enough Students need to graduate with real world stills that they can count on.

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Chapter 5 Recipes

It is a good idea to add the following items to your shopping list and to keep them on hand in your kitchen. They are commonly called for in gluten free recipes. You can also use them when you run low on food items for your menu to make something.

Gluten free baking mix

Gluten free crackers

Gluten free bread crumbs

Gluten free flour

Gluten free snacks

Guar Gum

Quinoa

Rice (brown or white depending on your preference)

Xantham Gum

With these items you can also use some of your favorite recipes but with a gluten free value to them. It can be both fun and productive to get creative with those recipes. Here are some great tips for starting with such replacements:

Binders - Use Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, or gelatin.

Breading - Wheat or gluten free bread crumbs or crushed potato chips.

Flour - Use gluten free flour mix or cornstarch. There are plenty of options to consider including amaranth and sorghum.

Thickening - Use cornstarch or gluten free baking mix. For a sweet recipe, use dry pudding mix.

The internet is a wonderful resource for finding various gluten free recipes to try. You will enjoy the new tastes and you will gain more confidence in this lifestyle choice as you are able to create meals you and your family love. You can also buy gluten free cookbooks, magazines, or exchange recipes with others that are also eating gluten free.

Here are some great ideas to get you started. Try some new recipes and create a file for those that you really like. As your file grows you can ensure lots of variety in your diet so you don’t feel restricted or bored by eating the same thing over and over again.

Breakfast Ideas

Yogurt is a great option but make sure it is gluten free as many varieties aren’t. Both Stonyfield and Chobani are certified by the Gluten Intolerant

Group. You can use the yogurt as a basis for a delicious tasting smoothie too.

There are various brands of gluten free cereal by General Mills and Nature’s Path. If you like hot cereal consider Cream of Buckwheat. There are also oats that are certified to be gluten free. Eggs that are fried or scrambled are a great way to start the day due to the amount of protein they offer.

Lunch Ideas

Lunch meat is a great choice for a convenient and gluten free option, but make sure it isn’t processed. A salad can be a choice that works for you due to all of the vegetables. You have to be careful though as some of the cheese items and various dressings can have gluten in them.

Nachos consisting of tortilla chips and some melted cheese that is gluten free is a change from your basic lunch and very appetizing. Peanut butter on gluten free bread is another great consideration.

Dinner Ideas

Lean cuts of meat including beef, pork, and poultry are great choices. You can also consume fresh fish or other seafood. Adding fresh vegetables and your choice of potatoes offers you a wonderful meal without gluten in no time at all. You can also replace the potatoes with your choice of gluten free rice.

Snack Ideas

Gluten free snacks you can enjoy between meals will keep you on track. Cut up fresh fruit and vegetables so you can grab them and go. You can pack them to take in the car or to have at your desk while working.

There are plenty of types of cheese that don’t contain gluten, and they are wonderful for snacking. They also help you to get your calcium. With certain flavors of cheese you need to be careful as they can have some gluten in them so always read the packaging. Kids seem to really enjoy those individually wrapped cheese sticks.

While you should only consume chips in moderation, they are also gluten free when it comes to many varieties including most of those offered by Frito Lay. For a lower calorie snack consider popcorn. Make some hardboiled eggs and consume them when you need a snack. They will give you lots of energy.

Dessert Ideas

Both children and adults enjoy dessert, and you don’t have to eliminate it due to a gluten free diet. Various brands of pudding are free of gluten and you will have a variety of flavors to pick from. Ice cream can also be a wonderful treat but you need to pay attention to the labels. So many ice cream varieties these days are packed with goodies so you need to pay attention to what is in there.

Cross Contamination

It is very important that you think about the risk of cross contamination in your own kitchen as well as those of others that prepare gluten free meals for you or your family. If the same tools are used to prepare such items as those that do have gluten then there can be some contamination.

Even a small amount of gluten can be dangerous to certain individuals so care has to be taken to prevent this. It is one more reason why changing the entire family to a gluten free diet may be the best option to consider.

Holidays

For many people, the holidays can be tough due to the restrictions of the diet. There can be parties to attend and various events where you have to be very careful about what you eat.

You may decide to make dinner at your own home and offer a gluten free meal for all. It is certainly an option to consider. Prepare yourself for the holidays and have a few items you can take along for snacks with you in case an event isn’t gluten free friendly.

Chapter 6 Support

Your decision to be gluten free is one you should feel proud of no matter why you have made that decision. It is a good idea to get a support system in place as soon as you can about it. Share with your family, friends, and co-workers about your lifestyle change and what it entails. You will be pleasantly surprised at the many people that support you and even think about making the change for their own household.

Tell your healthcare providers about such changes too if they haven’t mandated it due to a medical necessity. You will find that most medical professionals are very supportive of this type of dietary change.

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Chapter 9 Creating a Long Term Business

it is possible to create a long term business if you can get a concept generated that works. You can demonstrate that there is a need for what you offer in the market. If you have a product or service that the general crowd of consumers out there is willing to back, then you may have a real winner on your hands.

You can use the money that is generated through crowdfunding to help you get the business off the ground. Maybe you need money for advertising. Perhaps you need funding to help you with creating the product or getting inventory in place. It could be the packaging and shipping.

The bottom line is that many businesses lack the startup funds. You may have a really good idea on your hands, but no way to promote it. The lack of investors out there willing to give you a chance can be frustrating. Many lenders fail to give loans even if you have a great business plan. They simply don’t want to take the risk of not getting the money back.

You can even pre-sell the concept of a service or the product to help you generate the income you need to get started. You can use that product or service as a reward which we covered in a previous chapter. By getting a cash flow in place that you don’t have to pay back, it can be the foundation for a very profitable long term business.

As your business gets off the ground, let people know about it. They are going to love to see the history in the making for that business. They aren’t going to just donate money and then it gets forgotten. Help them to see the true value of what the business got out of it.

Likewise, the business should be willing to give back. Set a good example by also donating to other crownfunding requests as your business makes profits. The fact that you were successful in making money can encourage people to continue donating to other requests. This is the way to help boost the economy so that it is getting back off the grown and climbing.

If getting the money in place is what is holding you back, consider crowdfunding. It can make the difference between your product or service getting out there or not. It can also help you survive that very crucial first year where more than half of new businesses fail. It isn’t due to a lack of dedication or the quality but lack of cash flow. This concept can change all of that, boosting the overall economy around the world!

Chapter 10 Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Up to this point, we have been talking about all of the right things to do regarding crowdfunding. However, it is important to point out some of the common pitfalls that people get caught up in. Being aware of them means you can take action to prevent them instead of succumbing to them.

Not Reading Details

You have to take the time to read the details for a site platform. It is as simple and as difficult as that. The reading can be dry and boring, but you need to take note of what you are agreeing to. Once you click that you agree, you are legally bound by those terms.

Not Offering Rewards

When possible, offer rewards. They will generate more donors for you than if you don’t give them anything in return. However, you also have to make sure you don’t spend so much money on the rewards that you aren’t generating the amount of money when all is said and done that you need for the campaign to be successful.

Not Enough Time

A crowdfunding campaign has to have a timeframe, and if you don’t allow enough of it, then you can fall short of your goal. This can be hard to gauge though because too long of a timeframe can cause people to lose interest. They won’t have that desire to hurry and donate money and you need that so that your campaign generates traction.

Too Much Money

Don’t ask for more money than you really need! With crowdfunding, the less you need the more realistic it is that people will be able to contribute enough. If you need $10,000 don’t ask for $15,000! If you need $800 don’t ask for $1,000. On the flip side of that, don’t ask for too little.

If you don’t ask for enough money to complete funding for the idea or project, you are closer, but still not able to move forward with it. Keep in mind that rewards can cost money and that there are fees associated with the site platform you use. Crunch numbers to make sure you calculate all of that in and then you set your dollar figure to ask for with that campaign.

Limited Marketing

Spreading out your marketing through all branches of social media, emails, and reaching out to your contacts is very important. You can’t get your campaign to go viral if you don’t have enough contacts at your core to work from.

Wrong Platform

In the next chapter, we will go over the right platform selection. It is really a large piece of the puzzle for you to fit together. Don’t rush when it comes to selecting the platform to work with for a given campaign. Look around, ask questions, and really pay attention to what is being offered as well as to what isn’t.

Spending a few hours on research can really make the difference between your campaign generating the funds you asked for and it falling flat. Ask yourself what would result in you giving your money for a given idea or project. You also have to think from their point of view. Did you give them enough information in the right format to make it worth it in their eyes?

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Chapter 7: Managing your network with network monitoring tools

When it comes to managing a network, the user would ideally have to consider several connecting issues and this would include methods, processes, procedures and toll that would ideally assist in maintaining and provisioning the system in place.

Elements such as operation deals with keeping the network functioning smoothly and efficiently would require the monitoring of the network to spot problems before they create dire consequences and address them accordingly.

The administration deals with keeping a firm hold on the resources within the network and how the assignment processes are decided would ensure the network is kept under control and manageable.

The issues of maintenance is also another common concern with the need to perform repairs and upgrades being the main focus most of the time. This could take on many forms and there should ideally be a good support system in place to ensure these are done in an efficient and quick manner.

The support for the network to be able to provide optimal service platforms is also something that is important enough to be a concern for the user. Provisioning elements are concerned with configuration of resources within the network as the support given would have to include the setting up of the network to ensure new customers are kept in the loop always.

The FCAPS also depicted to represent fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security are all functions that are performed as part of the network management coordination. This exercise would entails other works such as controlling, planning, allocating, deploying, coordinating and monitoring of the resources that pass through the network simultaneously as any given time.

Data management is often collected through several mechanism where there are agents installed within the infrastructure, synthetic monitoring that simulate transactions, log activity and real user monitoring.

Chapter 8: Computer network maintenance and repair

Computer network maintenance and repair are elements that should ideally be factored in very early on within the exercise of acquiring any system to be used by the individual or business entity.

Today computer networks often function as the primary communicating, research and sourcing for information tool, thus it needs the attention of good maintenance and repair allocations, to ensure this is not disrupted in any way for longer than necessary.

This maintenance would include issues such as security measure within the networks. Competitors are often engaged in accessing delicate information that can be used against businesses for their own obvious gain and this is quite prevalent online. Identity theft is fairly common as hackers usually make a living by extending such services to interested parties, thus the need to step up the maintenance and repair levels to ensure consistent monitoring of this.

The general malfunctioning of the system being used can cause a lot of damage to the user’s business or personal usage, thus the need to have some recourse action plans in place.

The following are some areas that could be monitored to minimalize any unwanted hiccups in the system being used:

The user should make it a habit to block any unwanted junk form getting to the network in use, with tools such as Gateway

Appliance. In place within the system and the incoming information, this tool is able to control the number of unwanted material form getting into the system.

Ensuring the antivirus system is use is always kept current and updated is important. There are a lot of choices which include AVAST and AVG which are relatively cheap to acquire. Generally the user should be keen to avoid any form of problems that could contribute to the need to acquire the sendees of a computer network repair team.

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting computer network

There are many possible reasons when a computer is unable to connect to a network or see other computers on the network. Understanding some of the possible reasons will allow the user to conduct some troubleshooting exercises to try and rectify the situation.

Some of the reasons that can be handled by the right troubleshooting measures would include the network card not being connected properly, bad network card drivers or software settings, firewall preventing computers from seeing other computers on the same network and also connections related to users and bad network hardware.

Accompanying these are some possible solutions that can be addressed using the troubleshooting exercise mainly due to the fact that a large variety of network configurations, operation systems, setups and other connecting services may not always be something to do with the network operating system in current use.

The user should ideally be able to be connected to a company or large network to facilitate administration of the said network and resolving such issues would require some recommendations done through the troubleshooting exercise.

Some of these troubleshooting exercises would include the verifying of connections and LEDs where the network cable is checked to ensure it is properly connected to the back of the computer. In addition to this there would also be a need to ensure the LEDs on the network is properly illuminated in solid green.

Adapter resources are also something to look into through the troubleshooting exercise when a new network card is being installed into the computer system.

The card’s resources should be properly set and should not be conflicting with any hardware in the computer. Adapter functionality is also an exercise to conduct where the network card should be capable of pinging or seeing itself by using the ping command.

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Chapter 6: Understanding Control Panel

The control panel in any operating system is critical as it enables the user to do settings on how the computer will perform. It is a key application that helps in all types of different settings.

It allows users to view and edit system settings that manages the operating system. It helps in installing and uninstalling applications not found in Windows, settings for printers, audio sounds, font size, maintenance of computer, performance of computer and many more features to asist the user.

To access the control panel is made easy. Look for the Start button on the right hand side and click on it. The control panel window will open. You can either use classic view or standard view.

Later editions of Windows uses category, small icons or big icons. If you prefer to view on a larger scale then click on big icons. For small viewing click on small icons.

You will also be able to see which software was installed, when it was installed, installed in which location, what version was installed and other information regarding the software.

To customize your folders, click on the Folder Option icon. It lets you customize your folder settings like hide some of the folders which you would not like others to see. You can set the program to open folders or files with a single click or double click.

You can change how your computer starts with the control panel. You can also set how your computer looks with the personalization button found in control panel.

This setting will affect the font size displayed as well as graphics and sound. You can use Windows background pictures or even one of your own personal photographs. You can also set the different tones for different actions performed by your computer.

Chapter 7: Recover your windows from a crash

With any operating system, there will always be glitches in the system that causes it to crash after sometime if the cause is not resolved with updates. There are many reasons why the operating system crashes. One of the common causes is the installation of bad or incorrect driver installations.

The two main reasons why Windows operating system crashes are hardware and software. On the hardware side, any error occuring in the hard disk drive or memory (RAM) will cause Windows to not load. On the software side, any damages or changes made to system files can have the same effect on Windows.

Viruses are primary causes for software to malfunction. Change of computer motherboard as well as removing or changing hard drive configurations will also cause malfunction. Other symptoms where Windows does not load could also be attributed to a faulty motherboard or power supply.

To recover Windows after it crashes, you have to either use Windows Vista safe mode if you are using Vista or Windows XP safe mode if you are using XP.

There are three safe mode options in Vista. They are safe mode, safe mode with command prompt only and safe mode with networking.

The default option which is safe mode is the best where a minimal set of hardware drivers are loaded on boot up. This mode uses physical devices like hard drive, video card, mouse, CD ROM devices and keyboard. Then use system restore to revert your system to an earlier working state.

After this run an antivirus program like AVG, Avast or Norton. These programs will run best in safe mode and you should delete any viruses found. After completion of this exercise you have to run System File Checker which can examine and repair all your essential operating system files..

Chapter 8: Computer networking in windows 7

With networking, you can share, surf the web, chat, make a conference call and others from practically anywhere.

For home users, Homegroup is the best way to stay connected on your home network to share printers, files, libraries with other people in your home.

For work, you need to connect to a domain which is a collection of computers on a network.

The top 10 Windows 7 networking features are:

Libraries - personal documents, personal downloads, personal photos, personal videos and personal music. These are folders created by the system. You also have public folders with the same names. Public folders can be viewed by everyone on the network while personal folders are exclusive to that one user.

Network and sharing center - this has been simplified in Windows 7

View available network - this feature allows you to view all available networks and connect to them directly.

Fast wake up and boot, smart network power, wake on LAN for wireless.

Branchcache - contents are cached on a remote branch to enable faster downloading the second time around. Access is much faster and easier.

Virtualization enhancements - when you run this feature, you will enjoy a higher quality experience. This new feature comprises of:

Windows Aero Interface

Viewing videos in Windows Media Player n

Multiple monitors

Microphone

Easy print. Use a local printer without installing a printer driver.

Common tools to manipulate virtual desktop images.

Fix a network problem - this easy and simple feature will help you fix your network problem.

QoS enhancements - quality of service enhancements in Windows 7 is URL based QoS. This feature enables Admin to prioritize their mission critical web applications over general web surfing.

Direct Access - help mobile users get more done. Help Admin manage remote machines more effectively.

Homegroup - the best feature on Windows 7. Link computers on your home network together to share files and folders.