Article Presented by:
Copyright © 2008 April Aguren
Traveling is an exciting time for the entire family, and if you are taking a toddler along on the trip, you'll need to plan ahead with activities, snacks, and all the right tools to stay organized.
Traveling with kids is much more fun when everyone is well-prepared for the adventure; this means packing the right items, making sure there are enough activities to keep the kids busy, and keeping everyone's safety in mind. Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway or a few weeks on a family vacation, here are some simple tips for traveling with a toddler:
1. Car seats, baby carriers, strollers, and booster seats. Making sure you have a safe car seat, a stroller and booster seats available, will make it much easier to travel to different venues with your toddler. Car seats can ensure a safe drive, while your own collapsible stroller will make it simple to tour and visit different areas without having to rent equipment. Leave room in your car to pack the stroller easily, and take along a booster seat if you have some extra space. You may also want to bring a sling or baby carrier to reduce the amount of gear to pack if your child is not too heavy for you to carry. Most slings can support a child up to 35 lbs. Check with your sling's / carrier's manufacturer for details.
2. Comfortable clothing. The right outfit for the day of traveling is important, since you want your toddler to be comfortable and enjoy the experience. Light-colored clothing works best, especially if you're traveling to a warmer climate. You'll want to pack at least two outfits for the days you'll be traveling on the road or in an airplane, as your toddler may spill food and drinks on their clothes and that will require an outfit change.
3. Diaper bags and accessories. You'll need a place to store those extra diaper bags, toys, videos, snacks, and clothing, so that everything is within easy reach. If you are traveling by car or van, pick up an organizer bag that you can just hang over the car seat, or a tote-style box/organizer that you can slip into the trunk of the car.
4. Puzzles and games. Puzzles and games will keep your toddler and kids busy during those very long travel times, so make sure you're taking along a tote bag of their favorite toys, coloring books, and games. Games don't have to contain lots of pieces when you're on the road - think about simple activities such as coloring books with crayons, picture books, and activity books that will keep them occupied. You also may want to create a surprise bag of little games/treats for each hour/certain number of miles passed. This keeps them entertained and wondering what will come next.
5. DVDs and media activities. A portable DVD player, an iPod, or just a simple CD player are other activities that can keep your toddler and kids occupied on a long trip. Rent some of their favorite movies for the DVD player, or just pick up some fun books on tape for them to listen to. These activities can keep kids busy for a few hours, and are especially valuable for those extra-long trips.
6. Snacks and food. Taking along enough snacks is essential when traveling with kids, especially since you don't want to waste lots of money on food and snacks along the way. Packing your own snacks and food will also ensure that your kids can eat healthy when traveling, so think of simple and tasty snacks the whole family can enjoy. Fruit wedges, granola bars, peanut butter sandwiches, and even homemade trail mix are great foods for traveling, and can make long hours of traveling much more fun.
7. Immunizations and medical records. If you're traveling out of the country, you'll need to have your kids immunized against various diseases and conditions, but you'll also want to have everyone get a health checkup before leaving and upon your return. Make an appointment with the doctor or physician at least two to three weeks before your travel dates, so that everyone can enjoy the trip in the best of health.
8. Passports, visas, and identity cards. Make sure you have all of the paperwork and materials you will need for your travel plans well ahead of time, and pack all of these in a separate case for easy access. All of your personal records need to be in an easily accessible place in case of emergency, so be sure to make a place for these and keep them on close-at-hand during your trip.
Whether you're traveling on a long road trip or taking an airplane ride with your kids, making sure they are comfortable, safe, and enjoying the experience should be a top priority. Stay organized and plan ahead, using all of these simple strategies, so that you can deliver a fun vacation the whole family will enjoy!
About the Author:
April Aguren is the owner of Ki Connect, LLC, which operates the Child To Go website. At Child To Go, one can locate those hard-to-find products that help "parents on the go". They provide a wide selection of auto, car seat, stroller, plane, and safety travel accessories for parents who have babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Learn more by visiting: http://www.childtogo.com
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Recipes For Relaxation And Getting A Good Night's Sleep
Article Presented by:
Copyright © 2007-2008 Aliza Saylor
Along with a whole host of things that makes staying in bed the optimal decision every morning, the actual physical comfort of the bed is the most significant. Whether you are snuggled under a fluffy blanket or lounging around under a sheet, the way you relax will drastically increase your quality of sleep.
For most people, choosing the right bedding set and bed covers will be a very important decision. The most common elements of getting a good night's sleep are centered on a person's choice of comforter sets, sheets, and pillows. As a result, there are many options available to the consumer for the finding just the right blanket and sheet sets to meet their individual needs and preferences.
Many people have varying opinions about what may be the most comfortable option for sleep. In many cases, people develop their own private recipes as to what is required for them to get better sleep, through trial and error. Once they have decided on the best recipe for good sleep, people seldom waiver from their decisions.
Comforter Sets
Comforters are the most common kind of blanket available. They are nicely decorated and are thicker than most regular blankets. Many southern homemakers refer to a comforter as a bedspread, because they are generally placed over other bedding.
Depending on the personal preference of the person purchasing the comforter set, they can be either very thick and fluffy or thin and soft. Styles and colors can also be as diverse as the bed they are placed and the people who sleep in it.
The ultimate in comforter luxury is considered to be duck-down or goose-down comforters. Faux fur and silk comforters are also indulgent items in the bedding comforter set market. These luxurious choices provide the ultimate in sleeping comfort for the discerning shopper.
Large comforters and expensive down comforters can be difficult to wash; comforters can be easily damaged if its owner uses a standard washer and dryer unit to wash the comforter. It is essential for consumers to be aware of the best way to wash a comforter before they undertake such a task. It is far too easy to destroy the fibers that give the comforter its comforting quality.
Many owners of comforter sets choose to purchase duvet covers to protect their comforters and their bedding investments. Duvet covers are slipped over a comforter in much the same way a pillowcase goes over a pillow, providing it with protection from dirt, sweat and other contaminants.
In addition to making comforters easy to take care of and maintain, duvet covers also provide the option of easily changing the look of a comforter without replacing the actual comforter set. Many women enjoy changing the look of their bedding with the seasons, such as using a bright colors in summer or a flannel pattern in winter.
Quilts
A traditional approach to bedding covers is the quilt. As one of the oldest forms of blanket making, quilting combines patches of cloth into elegant designs with splashes of color.
Quilts come in many varied and unique patterns. Small pieces of cloth are sown together and formed into squares. The squares are combined until the blanket reaches the proper size. Once the quilt is to the desired size, a backing is put on it and the quilt is made. Multiple layers or a variety of stuffing can provide limitless heating and comfort.
Even in modern times, quilts are typically handmade and used to commemorate special occasions and family gatherings. Store bought quilts are beginning to increase in popularity with traditional decorators wanting to add a nostalgic touch that require less of a personal time investment.
Considered to be an important tradition in many areas, babies are traditionally given quilts as presents upon their birth. Despite the dictation from years of customs, many people are choosing to provide store-bought baby quilts instead of homemade ones, hoping they will be more durable than their hand-stitched counterparts.
Sheets and Blankets
For those who prefer minimal coverage in their sleep, blankets and sheets provide opportunities for comfort and coolness. Living in a traditionally warm climate would make only superficial bed coverage necessary.
Even those living in cooler climates, still prefer to layer their beds with sheets and thin blankets under their comforters or quilts. Limiting most direct human contact to these lighter layers makes caring for bedding covers simple, because changing and cleaning linens is very easy.
In Conclusion
Studies show that people spend an average of a third of their lives in their beds, and that is just sleeping. Many other activities occur in bed, from family morning story time to late night intimate moments, so beds should be comfortable.
Finding the right bedding to make your bed the perfect place to sleep, can be vital to your overall health and well being. Sleep deprivation has devastating effects on the body, as well as the mental health of a person. When one is experiencing fatigue in the morning or through the day, it should be clear that the individual may need to find a better recipe for a good night's sleep. Replacing a bed is not always an option, but with the right bedding covers, many consumers will find the perfect recipe that will give them the best sleep for their investment.
About the Author:
Aliza Saylor raised her first child and soon after her son's 18th birthday, she learned that she was expecting another child. Her writing reflects her love and passion for home decoration. One of the easiest ways and least expensive ways to decorate your bedroom is to replace the comforters or comforter sets on your beds. Bed N Bath Gallery carries beautiful selection of comforters.
Copyright © 2007-2008 Aliza Saylor
Along with a whole host of things that makes staying in bed the optimal decision every morning, the actual physical comfort of the bed is the most significant. Whether you are snuggled under a fluffy blanket or lounging around under a sheet, the way you relax will drastically increase your quality of sleep.
For most people, choosing the right bedding set and bed covers will be a very important decision. The most common elements of getting a good night's sleep are centered on a person's choice of comforter sets, sheets, and pillows. As a result, there are many options available to the consumer for the finding just the right blanket and sheet sets to meet their individual needs and preferences.
Many people have varying opinions about what may be the most comfortable option for sleep. In many cases, people develop their own private recipes as to what is required for them to get better sleep, through trial and error. Once they have decided on the best recipe for good sleep, people seldom waiver from their decisions.
Comforter Sets
Comforters are the most common kind of blanket available. They are nicely decorated and are thicker than most regular blankets. Many southern homemakers refer to a comforter as a bedspread, because they are generally placed over other bedding.
Depending on the personal preference of the person purchasing the comforter set, they can be either very thick and fluffy or thin and soft. Styles and colors can also be as diverse as the bed they are placed and the people who sleep in it.
The ultimate in comforter luxury is considered to be duck-down or goose-down comforters. Faux fur and silk comforters are also indulgent items in the bedding comforter set market. These luxurious choices provide the ultimate in sleeping comfort for the discerning shopper.
Large comforters and expensive down comforters can be difficult to wash; comforters can be easily damaged if its owner uses a standard washer and dryer unit to wash the comforter. It is essential for consumers to be aware of the best way to wash a comforter before they undertake such a task. It is far too easy to destroy the fibers that give the comforter its comforting quality.
Many owners of comforter sets choose to purchase duvet covers to protect their comforters and their bedding investments. Duvet covers are slipped over a comforter in much the same way a pillowcase goes over a pillow, providing it with protection from dirt, sweat and other contaminants.
In addition to making comforters easy to take care of and maintain, duvet covers also provide the option of easily changing the look of a comforter without replacing the actual comforter set. Many women enjoy changing the look of their bedding with the seasons, such as using a bright colors in summer or a flannel pattern in winter.
Quilts
A traditional approach to bedding covers is the quilt. As one of the oldest forms of blanket making, quilting combines patches of cloth into elegant designs with splashes of color.
Quilts come in many varied and unique patterns. Small pieces of cloth are sown together and formed into squares. The squares are combined until the blanket reaches the proper size. Once the quilt is to the desired size, a backing is put on it and the quilt is made. Multiple layers or a variety of stuffing can provide limitless heating and comfort.
Even in modern times, quilts are typically handmade and used to commemorate special occasions and family gatherings. Store bought quilts are beginning to increase in popularity with traditional decorators wanting to add a nostalgic touch that require less of a personal time investment.
Considered to be an important tradition in many areas, babies are traditionally given quilts as presents upon their birth. Despite the dictation from years of customs, many people are choosing to provide store-bought baby quilts instead of homemade ones, hoping they will be more durable than their hand-stitched counterparts.
Sheets and Blankets
For those who prefer minimal coverage in their sleep, blankets and sheets provide opportunities for comfort and coolness. Living in a traditionally warm climate would make only superficial bed coverage necessary.
Even those living in cooler climates, still prefer to layer their beds with sheets and thin blankets under their comforters or quilts. Limiting most direct human contact to these lighter layers makes caring for bedding covers simple, because changing and cleaning linens is very easy.
In Conclusion
Studies show that people spend an average of a third of their lives in their beds, and that is just sleeping. Many other activities occur in bed, from family morning story time to late night intimate moments, so beds should be comfortable.
Finding the right bedding to make your bed the perfect place to sleep, can be vital to your overall health and well being. Sleep deprivation has devastating effects on the body, as well as the mental health of a person. When one is experiencing fatigue in the morning or through the day, it should be clear that the individual may need to find a better recipe for a good night's sleep. Replacing a bed is not always an option, but with the right bedding covers, many consumers will find the perfect recipe that will give them the best sleep for their investment.
About the Author:
Aliza Saylor raised her first child and soon after her son's 18th birthday, she learned that she was expecting another child. Her writing reflects her love and passion for home decoration. One of the easiest ways and least expensive ways to decorate your bedroom is to replace the comforters or comforter sets on your beds. Bed N Bath Gallery carries beautiful selection of comforters.
Add Natural Lighting To Your Home
Article Presented by:
Copyright © 2006-2008 Emerson Lockwood
The addition of simple natural light to a remodeling project can have a huge impact on your level of satisfaction. A well designed home that maximizes the use of natural lighting without compromising energy efficiency brings extra sunshine into your life.
Don't hesitate to flood a room with light, particularly on the north side. The north side is where constant light can fill the entire space very evenly all day. Try using larger windows where you can. The larger glass area adds light to the space, but you will want to use energy-efficient windows. Not using energy efficient windows could result in cold drafts in the winter, thermal heat gain in the summer, and higher energy bills all year round. Consider putting windows in unusual places, such as bathrooms and even shower spaces. This will bring in a ton of daylight and change the entire look of the area.
Don't discount using windows on a southwestern exposure, even in warm climates. Look for new glazing and low-emissive glass coatings that make windows more efficient and better suited to the specific exposure and application. Minimize east- and west-facing wall areas. These elevations feel summer sun most intensely. Maximize south-facing glazing as this will help minimize winter heating bills.
The right-sized overhang placed above south-facing windows can help minimize heat gain during the summer, when the sun is high in the southern sky, yet still emits warming rays during winter months. Provide for shade at south- and west-facing windows with an appropriate roof truss design, architectural features, landscaping plan, and decorating plan.
In warm climates, sunlight can overheat the home through windows on the south and west facing sides of homes. Roof overhangs can provide shade for these windows as well as improve the home's long-term ability to withstand rain. They will also allow you to open windows on a rainy day. Specify 24" eave and 12" rake overhangs when possible. Where overhangs will not throw shade, like first floor windows in 2-story homes, architectural features like lanais or awnings can offset potential heat gain that windows on southern and western facades might be subject to during the cooling season.
Try entrance doors with transoms and sidelights. Where space is limited, a single sidelight may work instead of two flanking an entry. Think about etched and translucent patterns for the sidelight glass if privacy or security is a concern. French doors with transoms above doors and windows can be added if the ceilings are at least eight feet high. If lower ceilings prohibit the use of transoms a wider window or bank of windows can be used.
Investigate using windows and skylights even where you might have been concerned about heat gain or loss in the past. New products, including high-performance windows, integral electronic blinds, and automatic timed closing devices can minimize such concerns.
Today's skylights units are sleek, leak proof, and easier to install with special integral flashing kits. Consider sun tubes or tunnels for areas in the middle of a structure, such as a hallway. Sun tubes are good alternatives in areas where there's not enough space for a skylight.
Tubular Skylights
Where windows are not practical due to elevation or a room's layout, tubular skylights can provide natural light while minimizing the size of the roof penetration. Tubular skylights have a roof-mounted light collector that reflects light through a metal or plastic tube with a highly reflective interior coating. The reflective tube guides the sunlight to a diffuser lens mounted on the interior ceiling surface that spreads light evenly throughout the room. They are frequently used in windowless bathrooms and closets where natural light is desirable and skylights aren't possible because of attic space above the ceiling.
They can also be used in other dark spots throughout the house, such as hallways and stairwells. In single-story homes they can even direct natural light to basements. Try new options in moveable, retractable opening curtain walls for residential applications. The following are a few of the common-sense tactics that can be considered when designing high-efficiency custom homes:
Maximize The Use Of Operable Windows
Aim for operable-window space equal to 6 to 7 percent of floor space. (Only the operable portion of a double-hung window counts toward this percentage, while all of a casement window's space counts toward the total.)
Use Thoughtful Window Placement
Place windows diagonally across from each other, rather than directly opposite, to encourage ventilation through, rather than across, a space. Incorporate whole-house/attic fans. Today's units are more powerful and efficient than models you might remember from your grandmother's home. In the evening, with windows and attic doors open, these fans can help flush out daytime heat quickly.
Locate Windows With Daylight In Mind
Good lighting begins with the effective use of sunlight. Consider the size, location, and primary function of the windows. Will the window frame a view, capture prevailing breezes, allow adequate light or provide architectural balance?
There is a tradeoff between the benefits of windows, such as daylight and good views, and the major drawback is reduced insulation value. Because even new windows have a much lower insulation value than walls, they should not exceed 15% of the wall area, unless the home is specifically designed to take advantage of passive solar heating. With proper window placement, there should be more than enough daylight in the home with 15% or less window-to-wall area.
Low-emittance (low-E) windows help keep heat inside in winter and outside in summer and - as a side benefit - protect furnishings from fading. They have a thin film applied to the glass that improves the performance of the window. These can cut out up to 95% of ultra violet rays in a home.
The two most important indicators of a window's performance are the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor the better the insulation value. The SHGC measures how well the window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat the window lets in. Each climate has optimum values for both the U-factor and SHGC. Remember, the better the window, the more comfortable - and more energy efficient - the home.
Window treatments, such as window films, can also be added to windows to keep heat from the sun from entering the home, although they have the disadvantage of darkening the home throughout the day. Shades and blinds can be closed during peak solar hours to prevent overheating.
Now that you know more about natural lighting and the impact it can have on energy costs it is time for you to get to work!
About the Author:
Emerson Lockwood writes on topics related to Home Technology, Home Improvement and Home Financing. You can see more of his work at his website: http://www.SuperHomeIdeas.com . Super Home Ideas covers everything to do with your home. Read more of his DIY Home Improvement Articles at his website.
Copyright © 2006-2008 Emerson Lockwood
The addition of simple natural light to a remodeling project can have a huge impact on your level of satisfaction. A well designed home that maximizes the use of natural lighting without compromising energy efficiency brings extra sunshine into your life.
Don't hesitate to flood a room with light, particularly on the north side. The north side is where constant light can fill the entire space very evenly all day. Try using larger windows where you can. The larger glass area adds light to the space, but you will want to use energy-efficient windows. Not using energy efficient windows could result in cold drafts in the winter, thermal heat gain in the summer, and higher energy bills all year round. Consider putting windows in unusual places, such as bathrooms and even shower spaces. This will bring in a ton of daylight and change the entire look of the area.
Don't discount using windows on a southwestern exposure, even in warm climates. Look for new glazing and low-emissive glass coatings that make windows more efficient and better suited to the specific exposure and application. Minimize east- and west-facing wall areas. These elevations feel summer sun most intensely. Maximize south-facing glazing as this will help minimize winter heating bills.
The right-sized overhang placed above south-facing windows can help minimize heat gain during the summer, when the sun is high in the southern sky, yet still emits warming rays during winter months. Provide for shade at south- and west-facing windows with an appropriate roof truss design, architectural features, landscaping plan, and decorating plan.
In warm climates, sunlight can overheat the home through windows on the south and west facing sides of homes. Roof overhangs can provide shade for these windows as well as improve the home's long-term ability to withstand rain. They will also allow you to open windows on a rainy day. Specify 24" eave and 12" rake overhangs when possible. Where overhangs will not throw shade, like first floor windows in 2-story homes, architectural features like lanais or awnings can offset potential heat gain that windows on southern and western facades might be subject to during the cooling season.
Try entrance doors with transoms and sidelights. Where space is limited, a single sidelight may work instead of two flanking an entry. Think about etched and translucent patterns for the sidelight glass if privacy or security is a concern. French doors with transoms above doors and windows can be added if the ceilings are at least eight feet high. If lower ceilings prohibit the use of transoms a wider window or bank of windows can be used.
Investigate using windows and skylights even where you might have been concerned about heat gain or loss in the past. New products, including high-performance windows, integral electronic blinds, and automatic timed closing devices can minimize such concerns.
Today's skylights units are sleek, leak proof, and easier to install with special integral flashing kits. Consider sun tubes or tunnels for areas in the middle of a structure, such as a hallway. Sun tubes are good alternatives in areas where there's not enough space for a skylight.
Tubular Skylights
Where windows are not practical due to elevation or a room's layout, tubular skylights can provide natural light while minimizing the size of the roof penetration. Tubular skylights have a roof-mounted light collector that reflects light through a metal or plastic tube with a highly reflective interior coating. The reflective tube guides the sunlight to a diffuser lens mounted on the interior ceiling surface that spreads light evenly throughout the room. They are frequently used in windowless bathrooms and closets where natural light is desirable and skylights aren't possible because of attic space above the ceiling.
They can also be used in other dark spots throughout the house, such as hallways and stairwells. In single-story homes they can even direct natural light to basements. Try new options in moveable, retractable opening curtain walls for residential applications. The following are a few of the common-sense tactics that can be considered when designing high-efficiency custom homes:
Maximize The Use Of Operable Windows
Aim for operable-window space equal to 6 to 7 percent of floor space. (Only the operable portion of a double-hung window counts toward this percentage, while all of a casement window's space counts toward the total.)
Use Thoughtful Window Placement
Place windows diagonally across from each other, rather than directly opposite, to encourage ventilation through, rather than across, a space. Incorporate whole-house/attic fans. Today's units are more powerful and efficient than models you might remember from your grandmother's home. In the evening, with windows and attic doors open, these fans can help flush out daytime heat quickly.
Locate Windows With Daylight In Mind
Good lighting begins with the effective use of sunlight. Consider the size, location, and primary function of the windows. Will the window frame a view, capture prevailing breezes, allow adequate light or provide architectural balance?
There is a tradeoff between the benefits of windows, such as daylight and good views, and the major drawback is reduced insulation value. Because even new windows have a much lower insulation value than walls, they should not exceed 15% of the wall area, unless the home is specifically designed to take advantage of passive solar heating. With proper window placement, there should be more than enough daylight in the home with 15% or less window-to-wall area.
Low-emittance (low-E) windows help keep heat inside in winter and outside in summer and - as a side benefit - protect furnishings from fading. They have a thin film applied to the glass that improves the performance of the window. These can cut out up to 95% of ultra violet rays in a home.
The two most important indicators of a window's performance are the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor the better the insulation value. The SHGC measures how well the window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat the window lets in. Each climate has optimum values for both the U-factor and SHGC. Remember, the better the window, the more comfortable - and more energy efficient - the home.
Window treatments, such as window films, can also be added to windows to keep heat from the sun from entering the home, although they have the disadvantage of darkening the home throughout the day. Shades and blinds can be closed during peak solar hours to prevent overheating.
Now that you know more about natural lighting and the impact it can have on energy costs it is time for you to get to work!
About the Author:
Emerson Lockwood writes on topics related to Home Technology, Home Improvement and Home Financing. You can see more of his work at his website: http://www.SuperHomeIdeas.com . Super Home Ideas covers everything to do with your home. Read more of his DIY Home Improvement Articles at his website.
Friday, March 21, 2008
The Psychological Aspects of Balding
Article Presented by:
Copyright © 2006-2008 Robert M. Bernstein M.D., F.A.A.D
Hair loss is a problem for millions of men and women, both young and old. It can decrease self-esteem and confidence, and limit the ability to enjoy life to the fullest. Balding affects people in different ways, but certain emotional reactions seem to be shared by many.
Hair Loss and the Mating Game
The most common concern that people have when they begin to lose their hair is that they will be less attractive to the opposite sex. The interesting thing is that this is often only the view of the person that is balding and not that person's partner. The spouse, or friend of those experiencing hair loss, commonly state that the only thing that bothers them is that it makes their partner depressed. The balding does not bother them per se.
It is interesting that women sometimes express that they want their spouses to look good for the wedding pictures, but once married, they become far less concerned. In fact, when a married man suddenly becomes interested in having a hair transplant, we have seen the spouse become suspicious of extra-marital interests and object to the procedure.
Balding on the Job
Another concern is that the person with hair loss feels he or she looks older than they actually are and will not be as competitive in the work force. Unfortunately, studies have shown that this is a real concern. When employers are screening job applicants, all other things being equal, those with hair are viewed more favorably than those who are bald.
Mirror Mirror on the Wall
People experiencing hair loss complain that the way they look does not fit with their own image of themselves. This occurs when someone begins to lose hair early i.e., in their late teens or twenties, but it is as much a problem when someone has had a full-head of hair for years (and is used to receiving compliments about their hair) and then their hair thins unexpectedly in middle age.
Hair loss is a universal marker for aging, with ones locks gradually diminishing over time. Your body slowly changes as well, with more sagging and wrinkles and ones muscle mass decreasing. However, hair loss hair can also occur suddenly at a young age, making you appear much older than you actually are.
Another aspect of balding is that people feel a loss of control. Hair is one of the few body parts that you can actually manipulate yourself. You can grow hair long, cut if off, you can wave it, dye it, or pull it back in a pony-tail. It serves as a form of self-expression. As people start to lose this form of self-expression, they can become depressed and withdrawn. But not everyone responds this way. People react very differently to their hair loss, with some considering it only a minor nuisance and others finding it so debilitating that they won't be seen in public without their head covered.
So Did You Hear the One About...
One of the things that makes going bald difficult is that, for some reason, people feel that commenting or joking about hair loss is "fair game" when they wouldn't dare mention that someone had bad skin, or had a limp. I often point out to patients, that just because people chose to comment about thinning hair, doesn't mean they are judging that person or really care much about it. It just seems to be a socially acceptable thing to mention.
He Thinks, She Thinks
Women seem to believe that female hair loss is less acceptable than hair loss in men. While this may be true, the vast majority of women have hair loss in a pattern that can be easily camouflaged. Women are often reassured when they realize that about 40% of women experience hair loss over their lifetime, but it is to such a small degree that it is rarely recognized by the opposite sex.
Mane Options
The important things to remember are that hair loss is very common, it is much more acceptable as one ages, and it is generally less important to other people than the person experiencing hair loss thinks. That said, it is not unreasonable to be upset about going bald. Fortunately, for those who are bothered by their hair loss, there are now excellent medications to prevent hair loss and excellent surgical treatments to restore hair once it is gone.
About the Author:
Copyright (c) 2006, Robert M. Bernstein M.D., F.A.A.D.
Dr. Bernstein is Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York and is the Director of Bernstein Medical - Center for Hair Restoration in Manhattan. Learn more at: New York Hair Restoration Center at: http://www.BernsteinMedical.com
Copyright © 2006-2008 Robert M. Bernstein M.D., F.A.A.D
Hair loss is a problem for millions of men and women, both young and old. It can decrease self-esteem and confidence, and limit the ability to enjoy life to the fullest. Balding affects people in different ways, but certain emotional reactions seem to be shared by many.
Hair Loss and the Mating Game
The most common concern that people have when they begin to lose their hair is that they will be less attractive to the opposite sex. The interesting thing is that this is often only the view of the person that is balding and not that person's partner. The spouse, or friend of those experiencing hair loss, commonly state that the only thing that bothers them is that it makes their partner depressed. The balding does not bother them per se.
It is interesting that women sometimes express that they want their spouses to look good for the wedding pictures, but once married, they become far less concerned. In fact, when a married man suddenly becomes interested in having a hair transplant, we have seen the spouse become suspicious of extra-marital interests and object to the procedure.
Balding on the Job
Another concern is that the person with hair loss feels he or she looks older than they actually are and will not be as competitive in the work force. Unfortunately, studies have shown that this is a real concern. When employers are screening job applicants, all other things being equal, those with hair are viewed more favorably than those who are bald.
Mirror Mirror on the Wall
People experiencing hair loss complain that the way they look does not fit with their own image of themselves. This occurs when someone begins to lose hair early i.e., in their late teens or twenties, but it is as much a problem when someone has had a full-head of hair for years (and is used to receiving compliments about their hair) and then their hair thins unexpectedly in middle age.
Hair loss is a universal marker for aging, with ones locks gradually diminishing over time. Your body slowly changes as well, with more sagging and wrinkles and ones muscle mass decreasing. However, hair loss hair can also occur suddenly at a young age, making you appear much older than you actually are.
Another aspect of balding is that people feel a loss of control. Hair is one of the few body parts that you can actually manipulate yourself. You can grow hair long, cut if off, you can wave it, dye it, or pull it back in a pony-tail. It serves as a form of self-expression. As people start to lose this form of self-expression, they can become depressed and withdrawn. But not everyone responds this way. People react very differently to their hair loss, with some considering it only a minor nuisance and others finding it so debilitating that they won't be seen in public without their head covered.
So Did You Hear the One About...
One of the things that makes going bald difficult is that, for some reason, people feel that commenting or joking about hair loss is "fair game" when they wouldn't dare mention that someone had bad skin, or had a limp. I often point out to patients, that just because people chose to comment about thinning hair, doesn't mean they are judging that person or really care much about it. It just seems to be a socially acceptable thing to mention.
He Thinks, She Thinks
Women seem to believe that female hair loss is less acceptable than hair loss in men. While this may be true, the vast majority of women have hair loss in a pattern that can be easily camouflaged. Women are often reassured when they realize that about 40% of women experience hair loss over their lifetime, but it is to such a small degree that it is rarely recognized by the opposite sex.
Mane Options
The important things to remember are that hair loss is very common, it is much more acceptable as one ages, and it is generally less important to other people than the person experiencing hair loss thinks. That said, it is not unreasonable to be upset about going bald. Fortunately, for those who are bothered by their hair loss, there are now excellent medications to prevent hair loss and excellent surgical treatments to restore hair once it is gone.
About the Author:
Copyright (c) 2006, Robert M. Bernstein M.D., F.A.A.D.
Dr. Bernstein is Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York and is the Director of Bernstein Medical - Center for Hair Restoration in Manhattan. Learn more at: New York Hair Restoration Center at: http://www.BernsteinMedical.com
Monday, March 10, 2008
Will the REAL Exclusive Buyer's Agent Please Stand Up?
Article Presented by:
Julie P. Tuggle
What exactly is an "Exclusive Buyer's Agent"?
A: An agent who represents only buyers, never sellers, with no risk to their buyers of dual or designated agency on any home they want to buy.
B: An agent who represents their buyers as a designated agent if they want to buy a home that is an in-house listing.
C: An agent who gets paid regardless of whether the agent finds their buyers the home they want to buy or not.
The correct answer is "It depends on who you ask". Let's discuss each of the scenarios above:
A: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who represents only buyers, never sellers, with no risk to their buyers of dual or designated agency on any home they want to buy.
This is the definition you would find in "Don't Risk It! A Broker's Guide to Risk Management", published by the National Association of Realtors in 2000: "Exclusive Buyer Representation - Also called exclusive buyer agency, this the practice of representing only buyers, never sellers. The company never lists a seller's property and thus never has a seller as a client."
The definition above is also the definition used by the news media in articles written for the benefit of home buyers who are looking for consumer advice in preparation for the purchase of real estate. Internationally acclaimed finance specialist Suze Orman endorses the National Association of Exclusive Buyer's Agents in the "Finding a Buyer's Agent" section of her popular web site, www.suzeorman.com. Consumer advice columnists Ilyce Glink and Robert Bruss recommend exclusive buyer agency as an alternative to buyer agency to consumers who want to avoid the risk of dual agency - when one broker represents both parties. Ilyce Glink advises: "If you're trying to eliminate potential conflicts in your deal, you may want to try (exclusive buyer agency). Exclusive buyer's agents never represent sellers. They only represent buyers, and they typically will take buyers wherever they want to go in a metro area.". Robert Bruss differentiates between the different types of buyer agency services in his article Do Home Buyers Need Their Own Agent?: "Any real estate agent can be a buyer's agent to help locate your home purchase. In addition, there are a few exclusive buyers' agents who represent only home buyers, never accepting listings from home sellers."
And June Fletcher from the Wall St. Journal.com writes: "Exclusive buyers agents can focus on their customers and their needs in a way many sellers agents can't. They don't have to spend their time holding open houses, staging properties, or doing all the other marketing tasks that consume much of a listing agent's time. They can concentrate on previewing homes, investigating comparable houses, helping the buyer understand financing options, negotiating the deal and making sure all the inspections and escrow items are done in a timely manner.
What's more, home shoppers who use exclusive buyers agents don't run the risk of falling in love with one of their agent's own listings. When that happens, the agent becomes a dual agent -- beholden to both the seller and the buyer, and thus, beholden to no one. Because this limits the amount of advocacy and advice the professional can give either party (for instance, a dual agent can't tell the seller the highest price that a buyer is willing to pay), it's illegal in some states.": www.realestatejournal.com
B: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who represents their buyers as a designated agent if they want to buy a home that is an in-house listing.
The news media is doing a great job of advising consumers to ask for an exclusive buyer's agent in order to avoid the the conflict of interests that exists with dual and designated agency (which legally is "dual agency" in NC, since the same broker represents both parties.) But the problem is now that consumers have started asking for an exclusive buyer's agent, listing agents are representing themselves to consumers as "exclusive buyer's agents," and are advising consumers they can provide exclusive buyer agency representation - even on in-house listings! The reason for this is that the NC Real Estate Commission does not recognize the definition for exclusive buyer's agent published by NAR in 2000, and since then, picked up and popularized by the mainstream news media. As a result, many real estate agents who practice designated agency on in-house listings regularly advertise themselves to consumers as "exclusive buyer's agents."
C: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who gets paid regardless of whether the agent finds their buyers the home they want to buy or not.
The NC Real Estate Commission allows NC real estate agents to call themselves an exclusive buyer's agent if their buyer client signs an "Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement." The NC Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement is a contract which states that the buyer's agent gets paid no matter who finds the home, and restricts the buyer to the buyer agency services of the agent/firm with whom the buyer has the buyer agency agreement. The NC Real Estate Commission acknowledges this usage of the term is pervasive throughout the industry in NC, but does not consider it a deceptive practice because no legal definition for this term exists in NC. The following terms: "Buyer's Agent, Seller's Agent, Dual Agent, and Designated Agent" are all defined in the state mandated Consumer Disclosure Brochure called "Working With Real Estate Agents," but the definition for "Exclusive Buyer's/Seller's Agent" is a glaring omission from the agency options that are disclosed to consumers in this brochure.
In many states including NC, "Buyer Beware" remains the adage for consumers who want an exclusive buyer's agent to represent them in their next real estate purchase transaction. A refreshing exception is Ohio, where their state legal disclosure, "Consumer Guide to Agency Relationships," was developed jointly by the Ohio Association of Realtors and the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. Under Ohio license law, each brokerage must disclose which of five agency policy options their company practices and offers to consumers, including an option for exclusive buyer agency: "Under this policy, your brokerage only represents buyers, and does not take listings, practice subagency or dual agency."
Real Estate industry expert and columnist Peter Miller sums up the argument best for including exclusive buyer agency as an additional agency option in the NC Consumer Disclosure Brochure: "Brokerages should always include listing brokers and buyer brokers, exclusive or not, so that individual professionals can pick the practice strategy they prefer while consumers can find the widest array of services. Exclusive buyer brokers changed the marketplace by popularizing the core concept of buyer brokerage. That's a transition which now helps millions of purchasers get a better deal in the marketplace - and that is a significant accomplishment."
Since no legal regulation for exclusive buyer agency exists in NC, before proceeding with a self-proclaimed "Exclusive Buyer's Agent," consumers are advised to question their real estate agent's interpretation of this loaded real estate term.
About the Author:
Julie P. Tuggle is broker-owner of Carolina Buyer's Agent, an exclusive buyer agency in Charlotte, North Carolina that represents only buyers, never sellers, on the purchase of Charlotte, NC homes with no risk to their buyer-clients of dual or designated agency representation on any home they want to buy. Julie can be reached at: juliet@charlotte-eba.com
Julie P. Tuggle
What exactly is an "Exclusive Buyer's Agent"?
A: An agent who represents only buyers, never sellers, with no risk to their buyers of dual or designated agency on any home they want to buy.
B: An agent who represents their buyers as a designated agent if they want to buy a home that is an in-house listing.
C: An agent who gets paid regardless of whether the agent finds their buyers the home they want to buy or not.
The correct answer is "It depends on who you ask". Let's discuss each of the scenarios above:
A: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who represents only buyers, never sellers, with no risk to their buyers of dual or designated agency on any home they want to buy.
This is the definition you would find in "Don't Risk It! A Broker's Guide to Risk Management", published by the National Association of Realtors in 2000: "Exclusive Buyer Representation - Also called exclusive buyer agency, this the practice of representing only buyers, never sellers. The company never lists a seller's property and thus never has a seller as a client."
The definition above is also the definition used by the news media in articles written for the benefit of home buyers who are looking for consumer advice in preparation for the purchase of real estate. Internationally acclaimed finance specialist Suze Orman endorses the National Association of Exclusive Buyer's Agents in the "Finding a Buyer's Agent" section of her popular web site, www.suzeorman.com. Consumer advice columnists Ilyce Glink and Robert Bruss recommend exclusive buyer agency as an alternative to buyer agency to consumers who want to avoid the risk of dual agency - when one broker represents both parties. Ilyce Glink advises: "If you're trying to eliminate potential conflicts in your deal, you may want to try (exclusive buyer agency). Exclusive buyer's agents never represent sellers. They only represent buyers, and they typically will take buyers wherever they want to go in a metro area.". Robert Bruss differentiates between the different types of buyer agency services in his article Do Home Buyers Need Their Own Agent?: "Any real estate agent can be a buyer's agent to help locate your home purchase. In addition, there are a few exclusive buyers' agents who represent only home buyers, never accepting listings from home sellers."
And June Fletcher from the Wall St. Journal.com writes: "Exclusive buyers agents can focus on their customers and their needs in a way many sellers agents can't. They don't have to spend their time holding open houses, staging properties, or doing all the other marketing tasks that consume much of a listing agent's time. They can concentrate on previewing homes, investigating comparable houses, helping the buyer understand financing options, negotiating the deal and making sure all the inspections and escrow items are done in a timely manner.
What's more, home shoppers who use exclusive buyers agents don't run the risk of falling in love with one of their agent's own listings. When that happens, the agent becomes a dual agent -- beholden to both the seller and the buyer, and thus, beholden to no one. Because this limits the amount of advocacy and advice the professional can give either party (for instance, a dual agent can't tell the seller the highest price that a buyer is willing to pay), it's illegal in some states.": www.realestatejournal.com
B: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who represents their buyers as a designated agent if they want to buy a home that is an in-house listing.
The news media is doing a great job of advising consumers to ask for an exclusive buyer's agent in order to avoid the the conflict of interests that exists with dual and designated agency (which legally is "dual agency" in NC, since the same broker represents both parties.) But the problem is now that consumers have started asking for an exclusive buyer's agent, listing agents are representing themselves to consumers as "exclusive buyer's agents," and are advising consumers they can provide exclusive buyer agency representation - even on in-house listings! The reason for this is that the NC Real Estate Commission does not recognize the definition for exclusive buyer's agent published by NAR in 2000, and since then, picked up and popularized by the mainstream news media. As a result, many real estate agents who practice designated agency on in-house listings regularly advertise themselves to consumers as "exclusive buyer's agents."
C: An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent who gets paid regardless of whether the agent finds their buyers the home they want to buy or not.
The NC Real Estate Commission allows NC real estate agents to call themselves an exclusive buyer's agent if their buyer client signs an "Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement." The NC Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement is a contract which states that the buyer's agent gets paid no matter who finds the home, and restricts the buyer to the buyer agency services of the agent/firm with whom the buyer has the buyer agency agreement. The NC Real Estate Commission acknowledges this usage of the term is pervasive throughout the industry in NC, but does not consider it a deceptive practice because no legal definition for this term exists in NC. The following terms: "Buyer's Agent, Seller's Agent, Dual Agent, and Designated Agent" are all defined in the state mandated Consumer Disclosure Brochure called "Working With Real Estate Agents," but the definition for "Exclusive Buyer's/Seller's Agent" is a glaring omission from the agency options that are disclosed to consumers in this brochure.
In many states including NC, "Buyer Beware" remains the adage for consumers who want an exclusive buyer's agent to represent them in their next real estate purchase transaction. A refreshing exception is Ohio, where their state legal disclosure, "Consumer Guide to Agency Relationships," was developed jointly by the Ohio Association of Realtors and the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. Under Ohio license law, each brokerage must disclose which of five agency policy options their company practices and offers to consumers, including an option for exclusive buyer agency: "Under this policy, your brokerage only represents buyers, and does not take listings, practice subagency or dual agency."
Real Estate industry expert and columnist Peter Miller sums up the argument best for including exclusive buyer agency as an additional agency option in the NC Consumer Disclosure Brochure: "Brokerages should always include listing brokers and buyer brokers, exclusive or not, so that individual professionals can pick the practice strategy they prefer while consumers can find the widest array of services. Exclusive buyer brokers changed the marketplace by popularizing the core concept of buyer brokerage. That's a transition which now helps millions of purchasers get a better deal in the marketplace - and that is a significant accomplishment."
Since no legal regulation for exclusive buyer agency exists in NC, before proceeding with a self-proclaimed "Exclusive Buyer's Agent," consumers are advised to question their real estate agent's interpretation of this loaded real estate term.
About the Author:
Julie P. Tuggle is broker-owner of Carolina Buyer's Agent, an exclusive buyer agency in Charlotte, North Carolina that represents only buyers, never sellers, on the purchase of Charlotte, NC homes with no risk to their buyer-clients of dual or designated agency representation on any home they want to buy. Julie can be reached at: juliet@charlotte-eba.com
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