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Considering one out of three Americans is a member of a blended family, step parenting teenagers is a significant issue. Parenting adolescents can be difficult even when they are your own blood. Their desire for independence, and possible resentment, only intensifies a less than ideal situation. Here are a few tips to have a positive influence on your step teens and maintain peace in the home.

Don't Play Favorites- It is natural to have stronger feelings toward your biological children than your step kids. Just make certain those feelings do not move over to your parenting style. Teenagers are very sensitive to fairness and consistency. Treat the step kids with the same consideration and respect you do your own children. You can build a connection with the step teen by separating your actions with your feelings until real caring develops.

Spend Time- It is important to build a relationship with stepchildren that you both enjoy. Take the role of skill teacher or older friend. In this role you can play sports with them, or teach something you are good at the teen also likes. Spend one-on-one time with them without the biological children around so you can pick up on their interest. Step teens will probably resist these efforts at first, but over time you can build your own relationship based on mutual interests, separate from their biological parents.

Step Back- Depending on the views of the spouse, consider taking on a less parental role. Step parenting teenagers is complicated. The best idea is to leave the discipline to the biological parent. Once a closer bounds form, it may be possible to share this role. You role as step-parent is appropriate behind the scenes by helping with discipline decision making and supporting the spouse.

Show Trust- Trust is important to teenagers. Find ways to send the message that you trust them. For instance, maybe allow them to borrow your car on a date night. These concessions go a long way to a teen and will help you build a connection.

Be a Team- It is not unusual for two people to have different ideas on how to parent children. However, teens are fighting for independence and will use signs of division to their advantage. While the biological parent should take the lead in discipline, blended families must have a consistent message for all children. Sit down and make a plan with your spouse. If you are unable to come to agreement, take a parenting class with the spouse so you can come up with a plan that works for both of you.

Step parenting children can feel like walking on eggshells. But, in time a relationship built on mutual respect is possible. Remember you are likely coming into the picture after the teen has experienced many losses. You may encounter strong resistance as the

outsider and should not take their displaced anger personally. Unfortunately, the Brady Bunch ideal of instant love is a myth. However, after time you and your step-teens can warm to each other and form a healthy blended family.

Entitled Teens Parenting Tips

Parenting difficult teenagers usually boils down to one word, entitlement. Entitled teens think their parents owe them simply for gracing the world with their presence. These are the kids who give hard working parents the silent treatment, or worse, have a hissy fit if they don't get a $300 dollar pair of jeans. A combination of indulgent parents, the consumer culture and emotional pampering hampers teens ability to develop into adulthood. Self-absorbed, entitled teens are difficult to parent. However, just as they were spoiled children can be raises as gracious and independent teens by following a few guidelines.

Limit Media- Social networking such as Facebook, youTube and my space encourages self-absorption and time away from the family. Hours are spent reading messages and posting the details of their lives Children spend hours posting photos and descriptions of their daily activities. The self-centered focus is encouraged further by tv programs, print ads, commercials and movies that sexualize kids, promote excessive spending and value fame without talent. It has been shown, teens who spend more time with their parents, are more likely to have high self-esteem. Have designated hours when teens are allowed to watch television. Use the time ay from media to do activities with the family everyone can enjoy. Family activities take away the me, me, me's and allows teens to relate to other members of the family.

Set Expectations and Consequences- Expectations have positive and negative consequences. Indulged teens don't understand how personal effort is directly connected to the outcome. Set realistic expectations and stick to a system of reward and punishment. For example, if they want gas for the car make sure they complete their chores. Then they will be better prepared for how the real world works.

Require a Part-time Job- Spoiled children think anything they want somehow magically appears. A part-time or summer job gives teens a sense of accomplishment and earned

independence. Earning their own money helps teenagers learn the value of a dollar and appreciate their material items. They will begin to learn firsthand that anything worthwhile takes effort. Being part of the workforce will also help them acquire life skills like punctuality, organization and working as a team they can use as an adult.

Have Teens Volunteer- Let children broaden their view of the world from what only personally affects them. By volunteering they can take the focus off of themselves and help others. It will also give them an appreciation for what is provided by knowing there is always someone who has less. No matter what their age or abilities there is an organization where they can help out after school or on the weekends. The experience will help them develop compassion and a broader understanding of the meaning of life.

Be Authoritative- Due to wanting to be their child's friend or feelings of guilt for not spending time with their kid's, parents adopt permissive parenting styles. Studies show this lenient approach creates entitled character traits in teens. An authoritative parenting style creates clear boundaries your teen must honor. You are doing your child a disservice if they are not taught life's social hierarchy. They must learn before adulthood that bullying or whining will not likely win them the big promotion.

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WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH MEDICAL CODING AND BILLING CERTIFICATION

Medical coding and billing certification is your ticket to one of the fastest growing professions in healthcare. Medical coding and billing specialist apply the correct codes to patient diagnosis and medical procedures. This data is then used to make bills and submit claims to Medicare, Blue Cross and other insurance companies. Without the medical coding and billing specialist filling out insurance forms the doctor's office or other service provider does not get paid for their services. There is an industry wide demand for qualified medical billing and coding specialist. Certification almost guarantees a long lucrative career in health care administration.

There are several reputable professional associations offering certification programs.

American Association of Medical Billers (AAMB) - The AAMB basic certification is the Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS) certification. It is an introductory billing and coding exam that tests medical terminology, medical office insurance, insurance carriers, ICD coding, Medicare, CPT coding, and fraud and abuse knowledge. The AAMB also offers a specialized CMBS-H certification covering inpatient and outpatient hospital billing. An advanced CMBS-CA certification is also available to prove competency in chiropractic billing and coding.

American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)- The AHIMA has one of the most popular medical coding and billing certifications. They offer the nationally recognized Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential focusing on hospital inpatient coding.

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) -Formerly known as the American Guild of Patient Account Management, AAHAM offers several professional certifications. The Certified Patient Account Technician (CPAT) designed for the hospital side of patient accounting and the Certified Clinic Account Technician (CCAT) for the clinical or physician side of coding.

The American Academy of Professional Coders (APC)- The Certified Procedural Coder (CPC) represents the highest standard in physician office coding and billing. Coders with the CPC certification are said to make 20% more than their counterparts.

Although it is not necessary to have a medical coding and billing certification to work, credentials will make you highly sought after in the job market. A vocational program are online course can help you prepare for the exam. Expect to know medical terminology in human anatomy and physiology. Also, have an understanding of third party reimbursement and the insurance claim process. You must also have a firm grasp of the basic IC-9-CM, CPT and HCPCS Level II code sets. Distance learning classes and online courses are also viable options to quickly get up to speed. For extra help, a multitude of study guides and books available to help prepare you for examination. A Medical coding and billing certification is the cornerstone to a new career, for anyone willing to learn a new skill set.

ARE YOU READY FOR A MEDICAL CODING JOB FROM HOME?

A medical coding job from home can be a dream situation. You can set your own hours and finish your work without anyone breathing down your neck. By staying home, you save money on transportation costs and childcare. Not to mention the tax write-offs for your home office. Working medical coding at home also means you can increase your volume to make more money and enjoy more variety in you work than working on location.

A medical coder is needed to record data accurately for other healthcare professionals. A successful work at home career in the field, is more than just assigning codes. You also prepare paper and electronic claims and issue them to the insurance companies. Software programs are used to enter patient information ad post payments. Regular clerical duties such as mailing patient statements are also part of routine responsibilities.

There are a couple ways to have a medical coding job from home. One is finding a position that allows employees to work remotely or contract with an outsource company. In most cases, you can sign up for more than one service to keep work consistent. By going this route you may still qualify for the companies 401k, healthcare and other benefits found at a traditional brick and mortar job. Another way to work at home is being your own boss and start your own medical coding business. Going this route you contract with single physician offices and offer to do their billing and coding.

To make the most money you have to be qualified. Most remote coding jobs require either a CCS or CPC certification and a few years of experience. With all of the medical coding programs available, passing a certification test is a simple part of the process. The main obstacle is getting the experience when first getting started. By taking a lower position as a reception, you can receive on the job training to get your coding experience before acquiring an actual coding job. Once you have the experience under your belt, you can confidently apply for remote positions. If starting your own business, consider taking specialized certifications to establish a niche. You will be able to acquire more clients and earn top dollar.

TAKING ACTION

Whichever route you chose for a medical coding job from home, keep a few things in mind. Having flexibility and no one telling you what to do can be a blessing and a curse. It takes discipline to work from home. This can be difficult with personal distractions like children, and telephone calls. Besides separating work and home life, you are also responsible for budgeting, bringing in new work and tracking the receipts for all those tax write offs. If you are able to do everything above, working from home as a qualified medical coder may be right for you. For more help starting your medical coding business consult one of the many at home courses available online.

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STEP #4: LEARN HOW TO PLAN A ROMANTIC DATE

Once you have the everyday intimacies down, it is time to step up your game. The next step is pulling off a well-thought out romantic date. A date does not have to be an expensive affair. The most important ingredients of romance are your time. Giving your time is what planning a date is all about.

The best romantic date has an element of the unexpected. A special date is not necessarily outside the house. If the two of you are homebodies whisk her out for a night on the town. However, if you are always out partying with friends flip the script. Plan a quiet night for the two of you. The most important part of the date is PLANNING the entire night yourself.

Whether at home or out on the town, make sure you are attentive to what she says. Women love a great listener. Encourage her to share her thoughts by engaging her in conversation and asking her questions. Keep the mood romantic with the right questions. Ask her what she is thinking about; reminisce about your first kiss or the first time you met. Even ask about her turn-ons. Keep it sensual, unhurried and connected.

Communication is a challenge for many men, but it is necessary to gain a passionate love connection with your lady

The at Home Date

An at home date is often much more impressive than the traditional type. For it to go off without a hitch involves some preparation. First set the scene.

Make sure the house, or at least the room for the big date is tidy and clean. Low light is notoriously romantic. Dim the lights then create soft lighting with candles or white Christmas lights. If the sun is setting open the windows. Simply controlling the lighting will cast a romantic glow on the evening. Turn on background music loud enough to set the mood, yet soft enough to allow for conversation and sweet nothings in her ear. Ignite her sense of smell by sprinkling perfume on the light bulbs or use scented candles. However, if cooking dinner allow the foods aroma to arouse her senses.

Don't forget to drop your kids off at the sitters. You don't want to go through all this work to have your lover switch into Mommy mode. Once everything is set, hop in the shower, put on some suave threads, and her favorite cologne. After all, you are the most important part of the scene.

Here are a couple of ideas to start your creative juices flowing:

Watch a romantic movie. Grab a blanket and snuggle on the couch with a dvd she's been dying to see. Or pull out an old favorite that has special significance. It doesn't matter if it is a drama with subtitles or is an action adventure. As long as it is chosen with her taste in mind, it can set off a perfect romantic evening.

Cook a romantic dinner. This old standard will never go out of style. Plan a simple menu with foods your spouse enjoys. Now is not the moment to experiment with a new recipe. Include an appetizer and a light dessert to complete the picture.

Have game night for two. Stay in on Saturday night and laugh and bond over a game of scrabble. Have a bottle of her favorite label on hand and use the good wine glasses. Share a relaxed, quiet evening at home and you never know how the night will end.

Use your environment. Clear a spot in the living room, put on a cd and ask your date to dance. While you are entwined in each other's arms whisper something sweet in her ear. Dust off the fireplace and light a fire. The soft flames, champagne, a blanket and cushions on the floor are very intimate. Or light candles around the hot tub or swim in your pool by moonlight. The point is to use what is already there, and create an experience, even if it means putting her hand in yours and embarking on an evening stroll.

Romantic Date Out

Take advantage of what your city has to offer. Even if you live somewhere your whole life, there is bound to be something new to explore. Pick up a visitor's guide and see the city from the perspective of a tourist. Read the local arts weekly for concerts, afternoon theater performances, museum and gallery special events. Discovering new things together encourages excitement and togetherness. Just the spark needed for a great romance.

Enjoy the view. Contemplating the world around her with the man she loves creates an intimate, romantic atmosphere. Find a beautiful place, where you can find the skyline, plains, mountains, or beach. Grab a pizza and a bottle of wine and commune with nature as you stare into each other's eyes. She will know for certain romance is alive and well.

Plan an impromptu date. Dress in your best and surprise her at her job. Take your lady to lunch and watch her and every woman in the building swoon.

Explore memory lane. Take her to a place significant to the two of you. The quaint Chinese eatery you used to take her to in college, or visit the park bench where you had your first kiss. The place you pick does not have to be elaborate. The special place will make her feel special, and that is a sign of true romance.

STEP # 5 HONING THE ART OF THE ROMANTIC GIFT

Now for the cherry on top - the romantic gift. Everyday gestures and well planned dates are further enhanced with the right gift. When it comes to romance, not any gift will do.

Contrary to what many men believe, how much you pay for the gift is not directly related to her enjoyment. The wrong gift, no matter the cost, will put you in the dog house. A new top of the line dishwasher is no good no matter how shiny.

Why? Practical gifts, no matter how much you spend, are never romantic. Here are a few gift examples that fit the rules of romance.

A rose is just a rose. Red is the color of passion and a red rose means, "I love you." Place a single rose somewhere she will find it like under her windshield wiper. Roses are pure romance, but remember to keep a gift of flowers personal.

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Most vegetables (except for potatoes, yams and sweet potatoes) maintain low calories, yet contain essential vitamins and minerals that improve the body's metabolism. Veggies such as spinach, broccoli, cabbage, carrots and artichokes contain no fat and very low carbohydrate levels. In fact, they aid in fat burning since your body uses more calories to digest vegetables than they produce. The extra calories needed to break down food are taken from body fat reserves. For example, one serving of Brussels sprouts has 50 calories, but the body needs 75 calories to digest. That's 25 calories of body fat burned just for eating your Brussels sprouts.

Beans

Beans are not only full of minerals; they are also low in calories and rich in amino acids. The amino acids in lentils help decrease body fat while helping build muscles, and maintain stable blood sugar. In addition, they are excellent sources of dietary fiber keeping you satiated longer, reducing the urge to overeat.

Eggs

Eggs, one of the most nutrient dense foods, are a natural superfood. Their high levels of protein rev up the metabolism and help you burn fat. Eggs are hands down one of the best fat burning foods. Among other protein foods, eggs have the most abundant mix of essential amino acids. Despite having low calories, they are packed with vitamin D, vitamin B12, choline and selenium. It's been proven eggs don't contribute to bad cholesterol, but does improve the good cholesterol needed for a healthy body. Eggs have all the nutrients crucial for good health.

Almonds & Walnuts

Almond and walnuts are excellent sources of the healthy fats needed for the smooth functioning of the body's cell structure. Just an ounce of almonds has 12% of the daily protein allowance and contains calcium and folic acid. Plus, the form of vitamin E in walnuts is especially beneficial. A handful of nuts is a tasty, crunchy snack to satisfy your hunger pains.

Pine Nuts

According to scientist, pine nuts contain an abundance of healthy fatty acids. These fatty acids help eliminate fat accumulation in the abdominals. Pine nuts also increase satiety level hormones along with the benefits of fat reduction.

SECRET #2: ADD FAT BOOSTERS TO YOUR DIET

Eating the right food will kick your metabolism into high gear and help you burn unwanted fat. Combine fat burning foods with these fat boosters to push your metabolism into overdrive.

Mustard

Tiny mustard seeds are packed with nutrition including: the amino acid tryptophan, omega 3 fatty acids, selenium, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, calcium, iron, niacin and zinc. They even have a bit of protein and fiber. The spicy Asian and Mexican varieties temporarily speed up the metabolism like ephedrine or caffeine in a safe, natural way. Adding spicy mustard delivers zest to your food and a nice fat loss boost.

Onions

Onions are aromatic, flavorful and low in calories. But, onions can also aid in weight loss. They are a source of a nutrient called chromium. Chromium is said to improve insulin and maintain stable blood sugar. So, onions help stop blood sugar crashes and the resulting case of the munchies.

Coconut Oil

Coconuts boost the body's energy. Unlike margarine or shortening, coconut oil is full of medium chain fatty acids used as an immediate supply of fuel. Use coconut oil in your cooking to speed metabolism improve thyroid functioning and amplify fat burning.

Hot Peppers

The chemicals that give hot peppers their spice safely speeds up the heart rate. Some people are able to burn up to 1,000 more calories every day from eating peppers. Spicy foods like chilies and peppers trigger your body to burn fat. For their flavor and fat burning properties, hot peppers are one of the best diet foods.

Green Tea

Green tea significantly reduces total fat in the waist and skin areas. Green tea has the catechins, proven to raise your resting metabolic rate. That means you keep burning fat longer, turning the body into a well-oiled fat burning machine. It has also been shown, the catechins interact with the caffeine in green tea. A perfect substitute for coffee, green tea is high in antioxidants making it a natural stimulate.

SECRET #3 INCREASE WATER INTAKE

Drinking more water helps the body reduce fat deposits. The kidneys do not function correctly without enough water intake. If they don't work properly, some of the load is discarder to the liver. If the liver is doing the kidney's work, it can't concentrate on its' main job of metabolizing fat. More fat will remain in the body and fat burning stops. So drink the right amount of water improves metabolism and keeps your fat burning at full capacity. Water also flushes out toxins and improves the body's ability to stay healthy.

SECRET#4 - BUILD MUSCLES

Muscle keeps you metabolism active and burning calories. Adding muscle improves your body fat composition ratio. Muscles are an active tissue that continually renews itself so it always needs calories. While normal cardio burns fat only during the exercise, weight training builds muscle ensuring body fat continues to burn throughout the day. The main source of energy for muscles is fat. So, even when relaxing or sleeping, you continue to burn calories. The more muscle mass on your frame the more positive effect on your metabolism. To avoid your metabolism from getting sluggish and packing on fat it is important to do weight resistant exercises to build muscle.

CONCLUSION

Now you have the secrets to a beautiful toned body in the palm of your hands. The only thing standing in the way of a lean sexy physique is you. Adopt these fat burning secrets into your lifestyle and you will see results in a matter of weeks. The right diet plan will show you how to combine the fat burning foods to keep your body melting away the flab. There are countless delicious recipes to make the switch painless. Add a weight lifting exercise regime and you will sculpt your body into an object of desire. Don't let another day pass. The new you is ready to emerge.

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EMEDIES FOR CONSTIPATION

Constipation is one of the most common medical complaints despite the many remedies for constipation. Feeling bloated, and irritable are all signs of constipation. There are several effective treatments to help you regain your strength and energy.

Exercise and Diet

Eat Fiber- A high fiber diet is usually what is needed to treat constipation. A combination of soluble and insoluble fiber found in is what the body needs to form soft bulky stool. You should consume least 30-35 grams of fiber a day. Limit processed foods, and those high in fat such as cheese and meat, and replace with beans, bran fruits and vegetables

Hydrate- Drinking water is also important to keep things moving. Woman need about eight cups and men need approximately 12 cups of water a day. Increase the intake of water and juice for a significant difference in hydration. Avoid beverages high in caffeine, like soda and coffee, which cause dehydration.

Physical Activity- Daily exercise goes a long way to keeping your digestion on track. It naturally stimulates muscle contractions and helps the large intestine move waste through the body faster, preventing a hard dry blockage.

Supplements

Aloe Vera - Aloe vera is a leafy succulent plant that grows in hot drained soils. Traditionally, dried latex from the lining of the aloe vera leaf is used as an oral laxative. The anthroquinone glycosides in the latex are scientifically proven to have laxative properties.

Rhubarb- For thousands of years Chinese herbalists have relied on rhubarb rhizomes for medicinal purposes. European herbalists also recommend rhubarb due to its anthraquinone compounds that irritate the colon and stimulate bowel movements. The root also has tannins believed to lessen colon inflammation.

Phosphorus- Phosphorus is a mineral found in many foods. It is a FDA labeled laxative approved for adults and children. One of the proven constipation remedies, sodium phosphate is taken orally and as an enema to prepare patients for surgery.

Psyllium- With a high level of soluble dietary fiber, Psyllium is the chief ingredient in bulk laxatives such as Serutan and Metamucil. The natural laxative helps clean and clear the intestinal track.

Alternative Therapies

Massage- Massage is using pressure to manipulation muscles. It's been practiced for thousands of years in different cultures. An abdominal massage stimulates peristalsis waves in the colon. A three to five minute massage will start stagnant fecal matter move again.

Acupressure- Acupressure is a touch therapy using the principles of acupuncture. Instead of sticking points with needles, is used. Tapping on acupressure points on the arm, trunk and legs relieves constipation.

Aromatherapy- Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to enhance wellbeing. Basil, lavender, rose and myrrh essential oil strengthens the digestive system. Essential oils of basil, lavender, myrrh, and rose strengthen the digestive system. An aromatic bath with five drops of oil helps ease and counteract constipation.

THE BEST FOODS FOR CONSTIPATION

Eating the right foods for constipation can be the best way to stop irritable, bloated feelings caused by intestinal blockage causes. Almost all Americans suffer some form of constipation in their lifetime. Though it is a very common condition, it is easily treated with the proper diet. The American Dietetic Association suggests eating 20 to 35 grams of fiber a day. The average American only eats five to fourteen grams daily. There are plenty of readily available foods for constipation relief.

Beans- Beans The latest dietary guidelines recommend we triple our intake from one to three cups per week. Just one cup of cooked beans provides 12 grams of fiber. Nutritious choices are split peas, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, lima beans, and pinto beans.

Whole Grains- The healthiest kinds of grains are whole grains since the essential parts of the natural occurring nutrients are intact. Whole grains are foods that do not have the bran and germs milled out. Whole grains to consume include: muesli, whole wheat, rye, amaranth, barley, buckwheat, corn, millet, oats and quinoa.

Unprocessed Wheat Bran- Wheat bran is the outermost layer of the wheat berry and is one of the world's richest forms of fiber. One cup of wheat bran provides about 99 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber making it a great constipation cure.

Add unprocessed wheat bran to baked goods for fiber and flavor. Truly raw, "unprocessed" wheat bran is not toasted and must be stored in the refrigerator. You can buy it at specialty stores and online.

Unrefined Breakfast Cereals- In their natural state, breakfast cereal is an important source of dietary fiber. Oatmeal and whole wheat hot cereal are a nutritious way to start the morning. For cold cereals, look for varieties with the first ingredient listed as whole grain, whole wheat, oats, corn or bran, containing two grams of fiber per serving.

Dried Fruit- Dried fruits are effective in pushing food out and stopping constipation.

The skin on dried fruits contains fiber the body cannot breakdown plus sugars that cause the colon to push out the stool. Eat prunes apricots, figs, cranberries, and apples for the perfect foods for constipation snack.

Fresh Fruit- Fresh fruit is nature's laxatives that gently relieve constipation. All fruits are easy to absorb and digest, however the top fruits for constipation are berries, papaya, oranges, apples, bananas and pears. Just one cup of blueberries contains 3.6 grams of fiber.

Vegetables- Vegetables are full of fiber and prevent constipation. All veggies are beneficial, but raw vegetables help more than cooked. Even cooked, one cup of broccoli contains 5.2 gram of fiber. Vegetables such as cauliflower, okra and spinach have the added benefit of lubricating the intestines easing bowel movements.

Gradually add foods for constipation to your diet while limiting high fat foods like cheese, meat, ice cream and processed food. When increasing fiber it is important to drink the recommended 8 to 10 cups of water a day to aid digestion.

NEXT STEPS

Put this action plan in use to relieve constipation. For more help with constipation remedies, there are many diet books and supplements on the market. Start making small changes today for a healthier tomorrow.