How to Tell if You Need a General Contractor

Making major home improvements can be a great way to improve the value, and the looks, of your home, but it can be a daunting task, and involve no small commitment of time and money. Many homeowners are unsure whether to do the home improvements themselves or hire a general contractor. The answer to that common question lies in the time the homeowner has available, and of course in his or her own skills and abilities.

One thing to remember is that few homeowners are highly skilled in all the elements that go into a major home improvement. Few of us have the extensive construction, plumbing and electrical skills it takes to complete a home addition or similar large project without professional help.

Of course finding a great general contractor, and qualified subcontractors, can be a job in itself, and it is important to take that job very seriously. It is of course important to ask family, friends and coworkers for recommendations, and to check their references carefully.

Those considering a major home improvement project or home addition will need to first determine exactly what the job entails, and what the time frame for the project is. If the new addition or home improvement requires specialty work it is probably a good idea to hire a contractor who has experience in the specific project you need. For instance, those who wish to install a new hot tub would be advised to find a skilled plumbing contractor, while the installation of a deck may call for a good carpenter.

For more extensive projects, like a kitchen remodeling job, a bathroom remodel or the addition of a second story, a general contractor is probably the right choice. It is the job of the general contractor to manage all the various aspects of he project, including such things as hiring the subcontractors, obtaining all the necessary building permits, ordering the materials, and scheduling the needed inspections. The general contractor will also work with the designers and architects to make sure that the job meets their specifications.

It can sometimes be difficult to exactly when a general contractor will be needed, but in general it is a good idea to seek a qualified general contractor when any of the following factors are involved in the project:

-An addition to an existing home, such as an extra room or a second story.

-A major remodeling project, such as remodeling the kitchen or the bathroom.

-Adding an additional building, like a workshop or garage.

-Finishing the basement.

All of the above projects call for qualified professional help, and it is a good idea to make them a reality with the help of a qualified general contractor.

Brooke Sikula is a freelance writer based in Ventura, CA and writes on a wide range of topics from home improvement to credit repair and everything in between. She is a regular contributor to http://www.get-home-improvement.com and http://www.home-remodeling4u.com

For more information and advice on home improvement projects, check out http://www.home-improvement4u.com

How to Make a Wooden Gate

There are some simple home projects which you do not need to go out and hire some expensive contractor or carpenter. One of these which you yourself can do is a wooden gate for your yard.

Relax, making a wooden gate all by ourselves is an exciting adventure and doesn't need to be hard or impossible. If we do everything systematically it shouldn't be too hard. To build a wooden gate we need the right design for a specific purpose.

In making a wooden gate ourselves the first thing we need to do is design it. This means we take exact measurements based on the width of the opening where we want to put up the gate. We also consider the height of the fence around it. Everything must be complementary, after all we want form and functionality, right?

Then we buy the needed wood pieces-4 by 4 inches latch and hinge posts, gate frames measuring 2 by 4 inches and picket wood pieces measuring 1 by 2 inches. These are mere suggestions; wood sizes may vary depending on our wooden gate design. We also need screws, some nails, 3 to 4 hinge sets, and the latch. The sizes and number of pieces depend on the size of the wooden gate.

We dig holes for the latch and hinge posts. A depth of 3 feet, more or less, ought to do. Insert one end of the posts into the holes and reinforce with rocks and earth intact at the sides to keep it from moving. Or pour concrete at the sides. Then we install horizontal frames for the wooden gate fitting the gateway. We also fix the gate hinges permanently to the hinge post.

Then we install the diagonal frames. Measure them to accurately fit the horizontal frames. To attach, drill holes through them and the horizontal frames and insert long screws. Mark spots, which are evenly spaced, allotted for the pickets. Use a square. Then attach them to the wooden gate using nails or screws at their bottom side. Two screws or nails each would do.

Finally, re-mount the wooden gate. Detach the gate to render the wood to a smooth finish and accurate fitting by scraping extra wood thickness. Then re-mount by attaching again to the hinges permanently. Make sure the wooden gate opens and closes to and from its jamb or latch post smoothly.

It is best to make the wooden gate right where we intend to install it. This enables us to get the actual measurement needed and base the wooden gate dimensions from it. Handle carpentry tools and materials with the greatest care and make sure to wear fitting gloves when hammering nails, driving screws, or cutting with a saw.

Make sure all tools are in good condition, like ensuring that the chisel or plain blades are sharp. Sharp tools make the work easier and safer. Wear a carpentry apron if necessary.

It's exciting to make our own wooden gate. We can start experimenting with our garden gate.

John Grant is a the author for a how to site where he is writing articles about how to build a gate.

Prevent Pinhole Leaks & Slab Leaks & Conserve Energy by Controlling Your Hot Water Circulating Pump

If you have had 1 leak, more will surely follow - you can do something about it before further damage is done and additional money is wasted.

Circulating hot water is the fastest way to wear out your pipes. In fact 90% of all pinhole leaks and slab leaks happen in hot water lines for the following reasons:

1. Chemicals in water are corrosive

2. Chemicals in water when heated are even more corrosive

3. Chemicals in water when heated and circulated through copper pipes that bend around corners and turn up walls and curve around electrical conduit and sewer pipes and are reduced in size as water passes through a building is extremely corrosive

In order to understand the solution it is helpful to know what causes the problem. With a little insight into how domestic hot water recirculation lines or recirc loops are built and how they work we can see that the answer is as easy as flipping a switch.

Apartments, hotels and larger homes have recirc loops designed to move hot water to the farthest fixture from the boiler or water heater in a reasonable amount of time. Each loop has a pump pushing water through a copper pipe 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Each loop has multiple joints and fittings that obstruct the flow of water. Gate or ball valves and flapper checks and expansion tanks and whatever else the plumber had on his truck the day he built the line create disturbances in the flow path.

Water likes to flow in a nice straight line with no obstructions. This is called laminar flow - nice and smooth. Anything in the flow path can disrupt the flow and cause an eddy to form. Eddies are the bad boys, the unwanted visitor, the black sheep of the family.

Create a little friction, add in some turbulence and the next thing you know you have a leak.

As your reading this please keep in mind there are things you can do to reduce or even eliminate leaks. They are relatively inexpensive and I'll tell you what they are in a minute.

When water pipes leak many things can happen - none of which are any good. Pinhole and slab leaks, mold, wasted water, wasted energy, property damage, resident/guest complaints and inconvenience all mean one thing.

It cost you time and money.

The only question left is how much? Please refer to Table 1 for an idea of how much a leak can cost.

Table 1: The Cost of a Leak

1 $200 You caught the leak early and it wasn't buried in a wall or under a slab

2 $1,000 The leak was in a wall and you caught it early and it was relatively accessible after tearing out some drywall

3 $2,000 Same as above except you didn't catch it early and mold and light structural damage had occurred

4 $10,000 The leak was underneath a concrete slab but you were able to pinpoint the exact location

5 $20,000 Same as above except you had to chase the leak into another rooms

6 $100,000 + The leak went unnoticed until someone got sick and you got sued

So there is the doom and gloom. What's the solution?

Good question. The answer is there are a number of things you can do. As you go through my list keep in mind that people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time (based on a study by the California Energy Commission).

First, check your water pressure. 40 psi is high enough for most 1 or 2 story buildings. Be sure to check it in several places to find the lowest pressure in the building. Typically that would be the point furthest from the water meter. If you don't have a pressure regulator, put one in.

When implementing this strategy do it in stages. Drop the pressure by 5 psi at a time and wait to see if you have any complaints. Shower heads and aerators already restrict flow to 2.5 gpm or less. Newer fixtures like the Evolve line of low flow shower heads have pressure compensating technology built into them and work just as well at low pressure as they do at high pressure.

Second, turn off the pump when no one is using hot water. That's right. I said turn off the pump. As I mentioned earlier people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time. The pump only needs to be on when people need water.

There are 3 methods of implementing this strategy:

1. The Manual Method

2. The Guessing Method

3. The Automated Method

Manual Method

Have someone go to the switch and turn on the pump when you need hot water and turn it off when you are done. Might be practical for a single family home (certainly not convenient) but impossible in an apartment or hotel.

The Guessing Method

Plug your pump into a timer and guess when hot water will be needed. This may be a practical solution if the number of people living in the house or apartment or with a limited number of guests in a hotel and everyone has the same predictable need for hot water. Unfortunately when hot water is needed during an off period the timer gets disabled and never turned back on.

The Automated Method

Think about your recirculation line as a closed loop. When there is no demand for hot water, no water enters or leaves the system. When a hot water faucet is turned on there is a "leak" in the system.

When water leaves the system more water is added from the city water line through a cold water make-up line (this is the technical name for the copper pipe that brings cold water to your water heater).

If a flow sensor is placed in the cold water make-up line, any indication of water movement would mean someone is using hot water.

If the sensor sensed a demand (i.e., someone turned on a hot water faucet) it could turn on the pump. The demand would be met and the pump could be turned off automatically when the demand ended.

That is precisely how an On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller works. The pump is only on when there is a demand.

As it turns out, there are many benefits to automating your recirc pumps operation:

Drastically reduces pinhole leaks and slab leaks - if the hot water is not moving, it is much less corrosive

Energy is conserved - since people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time, the pump will be off 80% to 85% of the time. That means the recirculation line isn't full of hot water and no energy is being lost. California Energy Commission studies indicate 37% less energy is consumed when an On-Demand Controller is installed.

Note: A sufficiently high speed pump is required (2,200 rpm or faster) to implement this strategy. If you have a high speed pump you will only need an On-Demand Controller. If not you will need a full system including a high speed pump.

In conclusion, cut your risks, lower your losses, reduce your energy bill and extend the life of you pipes and water heater or boiler by turning off you recirc pump with an On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller.

Contact me directly at the email address below to find out if this solution will work for you or what other options you might have. To purchase the On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller click on the link below.

Do it now and sleep better tonight knowing that one of your biggest headaches just got cured.

For information on the On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller go to http://www.SavesYouEnergy.com

Mark Franklin is CEO of Saves You Energy, LLC a manufacturer and retailer of water and energy conservation products. As a civil engineer Mr. Franklin was involved in the design of multi-family and commercial projects worth in excess of $100 million

Mr. Franklin has worked with companies ranging from the US Navy to Embassy Suites and Biltmore Hotels to Stanford Student Housing. Pinnacle Properties, United Development Group and ConAm are among the apartment ownership and management companies that have used his products. School Districts like the Blue Valley School District in Kansas and ESCOs such as Johnson Controls have utilized his technologies to reduce energy consumption

Mr. Franklin can be reached at mark@SavesYouEnergy.com or visit his company's web site at http://www.SavesYouEnergy.com

Restoration - Hallelujah

Free at Last, Free at Last, Thank God almighty, Were free at last. Not being free in the body, but rather, free in the spirit. What is freedom, where does it come from and how do we obtain it? Many people around the world today are asking these same questions. From Africa, to China, North America to Russia, Australia to India.
Freedom will never be obtained in this life but the freedom comes from Knowing God and releasing the burdens of the flesh. Not wanting to be king of the world, nor ruler of physical ownership of the seen, but of the unseen. Our, hope, home and joy is not of this world, we are all strangers here. We have a kingdom to come, that will never end.

We have become custom to being able to, do as we wish, go where we want and conduct ourselves accordingly. But we were, and still are bound by chains and fetters in this body. Pain, suffering, discontent, disease are all part of our bondage. Many that don't believe in God, haven't seen nor felt the true freedom that one experiences as God fills their body with the spirit of Jesus Christ and with the truth and the release of their sin. The spiritual and not the physical.

The cry of happiness and the joy of knowing the truth. When I came to realize that I was lost and had no hope, I gave myself over to the one that died on that cross and the burdens fell to the floor. I was no longer bound by what I thought I knew, I wasn't bound by fear nor anxiety. I no longer feared death. I was born again in the flesh and in the spirit. I knew where my spirit lay.

In John 8:32 we learn, And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. What is the truth that John was speaking of ? John himself, at one time, as were all mankind, in the bondage of the physical, not knowing the truth of Gods freedom of the spirit. When we were lost, we never knew that we were in chains, having knowledge but not knowing the truth of our surrounding's.

The truth that all manner of things, from the living to the innate will all come to and end. Steel will rust, Wood will burn, Stone will crumble and all other things are but for a time.
John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. Jesus is wanting to make us all free of this world, its, hate, strife, worry and from the unknown. Its the unknown that causes many to have failing hearts and troubled minds.

Not knowing from one day or another weather they will be alive, weather someone will take all they have, or weather this world will meet a violent end. Fear of the unknown is causing many a sleepless night. Fear and confusion, causes marriages to fail, body's to become sick and the mind to become unstable.
In Luke 21:25-26, we see the reason many will die because of fear. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity(Trouble, confusion, fear of the unexplained, the inexplicable, seeking answers but not finding one.); the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

Romans 5:18 Therefore as by the offence (Transgression, Disobedience, breaking of the Law.) of one (Adam) judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one (Jesus) the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men(Man writes laws and bibles to justify themselves.); but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men( idols,false gods and false prophets.) is abomination in the sight of God.

The turning away from the truth, being reconciliatory to all manner of filth and religions, being tolerable of lies and evil, making a pact with the devil, just to have a short lived peace. This present age is filled with violence, of so called religion. To obtain peace, there will be a pact made between those that say they are religious and the demon of darkness, this is undeniable. A Pact with the free nations and those nations that hold their people in religious bondage. Here is mans fear and confusion, what price will mankind pay for peace?

Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. The beginning of something must also have an end. Being born must also end in death, for we all must die, weather you believe in God or not, your life will end in death.

In Galatians 3:28, we see that God has no respect of persons. What does this mean? No one is above the judgment of God, no one is below Gods ability to save, we are neither, rich nor poor, white nor black, heathen nor civilized in Gods eyes. We all, as a race of people, are all the same. There are only two types of people on this earth, those born in first Adam (Born in Sin, human, and those born into last Adam, those of the spirit of Christ.) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
God does not look at the flesh, but rather looks into the spirit, for God is spirit. No man has ever entered into the next life in the flesh. We were all sinners at one time but thru the sacrifice of Jesus we all have the ability to become the Sons of God, free from the wrath to come and from the everlasting death of Hell. It is not blasphemy to say that we are the Sons of God, nor Lords, Preast and Kings, for the price was paid for our privilege to say so.

Amos 9:1, I saw the Lord standing upon the altar: and he said, Smite the lintel of the door, that the posts may shake: and cut them in the head, all of them; and I will slay the last of them with the sword(War): he that fleeth of them shall not flee away, and he that escapeth of them shall not be delivered.
Amos 9:2-5 Though they dig into hell, thence shall mine hand take them; though they climb up to heaven, thence will I bring them down:
And though they hide themselves in the top of Carmel(Hebrew = garden land), mountain ridge, North Western Israel, extending 13 miles North West from the plain of Esdraelon to the Mediterranean Sea, where it ends in a promontory marking the southern limit of the Bay of Haifa.), I will search and take them out thence; and though they be hid from my sight in the bottom of the sea, thence will I command the serpent, and he shall bite them:

And though they go into captivity before their enemies, thence will I command the sword (War), and it shall slay (kill) them: and I will set mine eyes upon them for evil, and not for good (Gods Wrath).
And the Lord GOD of hosts is he that toucheth the land, and it shall melt, and all that dwell therein shall mourn: and it shall rise up wholly like a flood; and shall be drowned, as by the flood of Egypt.

Barnes states of Amos 9:4-5, Height or depth are alike open to the Omnipresent God. The grave is not so awful as God. The sinner would gladly dig through into hell, bury himself, the living among the dead, if so he could escape the sight of God. But thence, God says, My hand shall take them, to place them in His presence, to receive their sentence. Or if, like the rebel angels, they could place their throne amid the stars Isaiah 14:12-14, of God thence will I bring them down, humbling, judging, condemning.

The Glory of knowing God and His Son Jesus, is worth more than this world can offer. If you would gain this world and all its riches and loose your soul, what would you give to change what you have done?

Why are you holding onto a life that will bring you nothing but pain, fear, discontent, confusion? Many today are fearful of loosing their retirement, medical coverage, their homes, jobs and money. Doesn't God feed the Birds of the air and creatures of the fields, doesn't He give the trees fruit and the flowers their color? God is our Source and Supply, for He is ever present. Cant you understand that if God cares for this world and its nature, that He cares more for you? Everlasting peace and joy can only be obtained in the next life, for mankind is on a path of death and destruction. Its your choice. ars

Tempel of Spirit & Truth Ministries. A.R.Smith Ministries. http://www.ourchurch.com/member/a/arsmithsermons/

Construction Estimating Institute - An Excellent Learning Destination

If you are a foreman, estimator, superintendent, project manager, or any other worker related to the construction industry, then you can augment your skill by joining institutes such as the Construction Estimating Institute. If you want to join the construction industry, then too the institute is an excellent destination for pursuing vocational education.

The institute was founded in 1982. It offers training and continuing education seminars in project management, field supervision, blueprint reading and building and sitework estimating. The training that is imparted is of the highest quality and can immensely benefit all those working in the construction industry.

Further, amongst the different courses on offer are a variety of online courses as well. These include courses such as construction cost strategy, course in financial basics, a course in Florida construction regulations, advanced 2004 FBC building/structural summary course, as well as courses related to estimating, bidding and on-site safety.

However, if there is a requirement for private, onsite construction training, it can be very easily arranged. Those who seek such a service need to simply put in a request for an onsite personalized training course. The chosen personalized course can even include areas that you want to specifically work upon.

There are many construction training institutes in the market. Some examples of such institutes are American Society of Professional Estimators, AGC Online Institute, RedVector.com, Construction Experts, Inc., Contractors Institute, and Jade Electric, Inc. However, what sets Construction Training Institute apart from all such institutes is its non-profit motive that drives the institute's educational endeavors.

Indeed, Construction Training Institute is a non-profit organization, working to impart high-end skills in estimating and management. There is only a nominal cost of the courses involved. However, it is chiefly intended to take care of the costs incurred in the design and distribution of the courses.

Further, for those who do not intend to join any course but would still like to profit from the knowledge accumulated by the institution's minds, doors are open to its bookstore. Amongst a variety of literary resources on offer, the 2008 Construction Cost Guide with CD ROM is the most popular one.

Apart from it, the bookstore also has some titles for various state-level general contractor examinations as well. Some such titles available are Residential Contractor Complete Book Package, General Contractor Complete Book Package, Building Contractor Complete Book Package, Roofing Contractor Complete Book Package, and Underground Utility Complete Book Package. A budding contractor can read books for whichever examination he/she is taking.

Institutes like the Construction Estimating Institute can help any contractor or any other personnel related to the construction industry with improving his/her estimating and managing skills. For a small price, this learning destination gives you an excellent opportunity to learn how to improve your services.

Read more information on Construction Estimating including software and calculators at => http://www.construction--estimating.com

Pour in the Sunlight With Some Brilliant Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

One important aspect that people missed out on in the design of their bathrooms is the importance of sunlight. The tendency of some people is to place the bathroom in between rooms or corners of the house without regard whether or not it can get sunlight. The fact is sunlight can add to the beauty of a bathroom because it somehow brings nature closer to the owners. Moreover, it can help in saving up electricity during the day if the room is properly set up in such a way that it can receive sufficient daylight.

If it is too late for you to assign a specific area for your bathroom, do not worry. There might be a chance to rearrange. With the proper bathroom remodeling ideas, we can turn that bathroom a haven that you aspire. All it needs is simple rearrangement, a replacement from here and there and voila! You will surely have the sunlight smiling on you everyday.

Does remodeling a bathroom would costs a homeowner so much? As far as practicable, there is not much changes to be made. A brilliant remodeling idea should always be geared towards the cheaper way of achieving a goal. As a give away tip, mirrors can significantly help in getting in some sunlight. It is all up to you what kind of mirror and where to place it in order to make this possible. For more brilliant ideas how to remodel your bathroom, you should get an expert to do this for you.

Aikaz Run - Bathroom Design Advisor

For more information on how to design your bathroom to be amazing look, visit our Bathroom Design and Remodeling resources at http://www.bathroom-share.com

Mental Awareness

Being aware of your thoughts is the first actual step to proper self defense. Believe it or not most of what you think determines what will happen in an altercation with someone. This might be a fight between friends or it might be a more serious situation like defending yourself from a burglar or criminal. Your mind in every situation controls exactly what it is you do...obviously. But did you know that thinking negative thought during an altercation can actually prohibit you from and success in the situation? If you are thinking nothing but, "How am I going to make it out of this?" or "oh my God I might not live through this!" it is a high possibility that those thoughts could come true.

Please understand me when I say this, I don't expect you to be thinking about going to the amusement park while you're being robbed, let's be serious. But what you can do is say,"Everything is going to be Ok just stay calm." Saying that simple little phrase tells your subconscious to do everything it can in order to bring that into reality. This can actually be applied to everything in your life. I am not here to write about soul seeking, personal development but you get the picture.

The main lesson to take from this is simple; stay focused, stay positive. You might have pepper spray in your purse or pocket or you might have a stun gun or even a knife with you. These self defense weapons mean nothing if you're not calm enough to use them. Once again, you don't have to be in a Zen like state but you have to keep your mind on your goal and this is to stay alive and walk out of the situation OK. Check out a post called "Mental Affirmations." This post almost complements what you have read here so far, but with more details and steps.

In conclusion just make sure you keep yourself ahead of the game by using your head. Tell yourself that you will be OK and that all will turn out fine. You and only you control what happens in your life. Even certain outside factors can be changed by what you think and how you talk to yourself. Mental awareness is what separate survivors from victims. If you plan on living your life in happiness and freedom then keep telling yourself that you are happy and safe from harm. That is the only thing you can do to keep yourself ahead of the game.

Matthew Batcho is an entrepreneur that has been involved with start-up business for over 10 years. He currently owns a landscaping business and runs a small self defense business online. He enjoys writing, painting, and discovering new ways to build business.

http://www.peopleprotection.com/bestsg.php

http://www.peopleprotection.com/blog

Condo and Apartment Remodeling

With an urban area that is among the largest in the world not only in terms of size but in growth of most every industry, New York is 'the place to be' for many people. The ever increasing sprawl in the Big Apple has caused the housing costs to be well beyond the economic reach. This brought rise to the popularity of apartment and condo complexes. In the life of these living units, changes may be needed. Remodeling condo and apartment complexes is ideal not only for tenants wanting to boost property value but also for new owners wanting to inject their own style into their living space and those already living for years and want something new without the hassles of moving into another place.

Condo and apartment remodeling is not an easy task, especially if you are aiming at a project involving the exterior. Such real estate pieces makes use and share common facilities such as heating systems, elevators, hallways and other areas outside personal spaces. Changes on such facilities are generally not permitted.

For larger projects with planned exterior renovations, you have to consider several paperworks before getting on with the condo and apartment remodeling job. First off, researching on the governing rules imposed by the home owners association with which your space may fall under is vital. As these types of living spaces consider a harmonious look an important aspect in the selling point, some changes may or may not be permitted. Not following these rules may lead to higher costs including added maintenance in adapting the original facility design or liability to the association. Other documents that need to be acquired for large, external remodeling may include the architectural blueprints, building contract and a city's permit application.

Typically, minor NYC condo and apartment remodeling that involves only the interior including changes in the non-structural walls does not pose any issues with homeowners associations. As spaces in these living units are often limited, there are certain renovations that may be done to make the area seem larger and keep things better organized. Creatively adding new cabinets can help in minimizing everyday clutter. Recessed lighting can also add to the illusion of having a much spacious area. There are many things that you may do to your condo or apartment to match it with your lifestyle and taste. This includes soundproofing an area or the whole living unit, repainting, adding conventional appliances, renovation of kitchens and/ or bathrooms, and lighting.

In condo and apartment remodeling, another important thing to consider is hiring a reputable NYC contractor. Whether the project would be big or small, letting competent hands handle the dirty job would prove extremely beneficial especially if you are not a contractor yourself or have no idea and experience at all about fixing things. You would be saving more time and would be able to enjoy the changes in the littlest time of wait possible. Money is always a big issue, but with an able NYC contractor, you are assured of lesser mistakes, minimized risk of having back-jobs and lesser costs in maintenance.

Eugene Makeev has been in the home improvement industry for a while. His skills and expertise, which have been polished through time, are now used to help New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened NYC contractor. To know more about NYC apartment and condo remodeling, visit Contractors New York.

Bathtub Refinishing Fumes - How To Protect Yourself

Bathtub refinishing is being used more by hotels, apartment complexes and homeowners because of a housing downturn, a mortgage-meltdown, and overall depressed and depressing economy as a way to save money in their bathroom renovation. Another interest in re-glazing is being fueled by informed masses who have shown a continued interest in "greening" their homes, particularly in making them more energy efficient. Consumers are looking for ways to save money, and the environment and that is what bathtub refinishing does- provide savings of up to 80% over replacement while sparing the landfills.

But unlike other services like carpet cleaning, plumbing, pest control etc, where consumers know what to expect from their service contractor, tub re-glazing business is unknown to many. And because of this lack of knowledge, many don't know what the process involves, what to expect and what the the final outcome will be. Here is the bathtub refinishing process in a nutshell: A tub is cleaned, fully etched, cleaned, prime coated andtop coated.

The equipments used are a turbine, a sprayer and a big exhaust fan. The protective equipment is similar to what you'll see used in mold remediation or asbestos removal. If the fumes coming out of the bathroom are not healthy for the one doing the refinishing in the bathroom, do you think it is safe for you, your pets and especially younger and older ones in the home?

Many bathtub refinishing companies will tell you that they use a proprietary coating formulated by them and for them. Ask for their sacred MSDS. It contained enough toxic materials to make their technicians suit up as if cleaning a room full of asbestos. Water based coatings are getting better but water condenses in the bathroom and on the tub. Go figure. Every etching product contain some level of acid. The concentration of VOC's is high. Unfortunately, from the biggest bathtub refinishing companies to the small town bathtub refinishing company using exhaust fans to get rid of the fumes and their smell. They leave a lot of toxic fumes and smell that linger for days.

There are air scrubbers that can suck up those fumes and odors and still keep the environment?
These portable systems operate in a completely sealed off bathroom. They are quiet, so that guests and tenants that sleep on while bathtub re-glazing is done next room. In fact, some companies are using hospital grade air scrubbers while re-glazing a tub because of the importance these companies put on the health of their customers and the environmental impact of their work. These portable units are in the bathrooms where the re-glazing is done.

All the fumes and odors are captured and there is no hoses or cords coming out of the bathroom as a safety hazard. The technology is here. Next time you call your friendly bathtub refinishing company, ask them how they are going to mitigate the odor and fumes. If they are still using old technology with its environmental impact in this century, they are not your company. Ask questions, protect your health, and those of your hotel guests and apartment tenants.

The sluggish economy is forcing hotels and hotel chains, to find creative ways to save money and the environment as they remodel their bathrooms. Many are concerned about the effects of over-spray fumes on their guests and their health, the noise created by antiquated bathtub refinishing systems, the impact of old technology on the environment. Ask questions and lots of them before you hire your next friendly bathtub refinishing company.

Wilson Uche Ukah, is the President of Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving the bathtub reglazing needs of homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. Wilson writes regularly on green remodeling and is a consultant to other bathtub refinishing companies. He can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

Weight Loss Spells For Those Interested in Witchcraft and Magick

Weight loss spells are becoming more and more popular. Both female and male witches alike often cast weight loss spells with hopes of obtaining their "dream bodies." A weight loss spell falls into the same category of "beauty spells" and "glamor spells." But do they really work?

Weight loss spells don't just magically work in the sense that they *poof!* make the witch thinner, but they can help the witch become more motivated to work out and to eat healthier. In order to lose weight, healthy eating and working out are always the most important things to do. But neither can be done if the witch has no willpower. Thankfully, a weight loss spell can help with that.

If you're interested in witchcraft and weight loss, here is a spell you can try:

Every Friday night for a month, light some white and pink candles (or red if you're a male witch or mage. I won't make you light pink ones.) Drink at least one full cup of water before, during, and after the spell. Have some jasmine incense burning as well, if you're not allergic to it. During the spell, while drinking the water, look in front of a full length mirror and visualize yourself shrinking and becoming thinner. Try imagining that you actually FEEL yourself getting thinner. Spend a few minutes doing this while saying this mantra:

"Extra weight go away, Venus be with me this day. Give me the strength, give me the power. I shall lose weight starting this hour."

Say this over and over again while visualizing yourself getting thinner.

After the weight loss spell is over, snuff the candles out and then set them in a private place until the next Friday. You may resume where you left off every Friday night until you begin noticing differences in your eating habits. Don't forget to thank Venus often.

If you are interested in a weight loss spell or any other type of spell, this is a great site to visit: http://www.AvonleeStarkeeper.com At this site you will find tips on love spells, money spells, luck spells, justice spells, REIKI, psychic readings, and more!

Using Fire Rated Glass Blocks to Create Safe and Stylish Windows and Walls

If you've got a 60 or 90 minute fire rating requirement and you're looking to enhance the looks of your building as well what product can you use? Answer - a stylish and contemporary option are 60 and 90 minute fire rated glass blocks. In this article you'll learn the following about these products:

The features and benefits of fire rated glass masonry units
Where to use fire rated blocks.

The features and benefits of using fire rated glass masonry units

The main reason to use a fire rated glass block vs. a standard block is to meet UL ratings of 60 and 90 minutes for window assemblies (a standard block has a 45 minute rating). The following are some additional benefits you'll get with these specialized glass units:

1. Transparency, looks, and light transmission - The blocks are available in Vue (see through) and higher privacy patterns (Endura and Decora from Pittsburgh Corning and Wave from Mulia) and provide 75% visible light transmission.

2. Noise reduction - Fire rated blocks have thicker faces of 3/8", " and 3" of solid glass. The thicker face result in an improved sound transmission class to reduce noise of 53 for Solid Vistabrik glass bricks, and 48 for the sixty and ninety minute rated blocks.

3. Added security- Since the fire rated assemblies are mortared together, and the blocks have thicker faces, they have increased impact resistance and are harder for vandals to break through. The faces on these blocks are 50% thicker for 60 minute blocks and 300% thicker for 90 minute blocks than a standard block.

4. Architectural design flexibility - Use one pattern or combine all 3 patterns to create unique designs with increased fire ratings.

5. Bullet and graffiti resistant - The Vistabrik 3" solid glass blocks and bricks can resist penetrations from high impact weapons with .357 magnum and 9 mm bullets. The non-stick glass surface makes it easier to remove graffiti as well.

Where to use fire rated blocks

Since fire rated glass block windows and walls will generally cost about 50 to 100% more than a standard glass block project (and will visually appear the same to someone looking at your building) they are generally used where the additional fire rating capabilities are either required or desired for additional safety. Here are some of the more popular places this product is used:

1. Limited lot line communities where the side walls of adjoining homes are close together - A project in Columbus Ohio is considering 90 minute fire rated Thickset Decora pattern block for condominium style homes that are 12 feet apart from each other. The fire department requires a 90 minute rated window product and the builder wants to make sure all the rooms are light filled and feel open for prospective buyers.

2. Stairwells in schools, hospitals, parking garages, libraries, and homes - Provides light and the feeling of safety.

3. Windows in gymnasiums, homes, factories and other commercial buildings - The blocks are hard to break with gym equipment or in a harsh industrial setting.

4. Building corridors.

5. Multi unit apartment and condominium complexes - more light gets into each unit without sacrificing the tenant or owners privacy.

As you can see fire rated glass blocks can do much more than simply increase fire safety in a building - they can enhance looks, increase privacy, and make a more secure and safe environment as well.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide factory direct suppliers of fire rated glass block for security and safety. Mike's companies also professionally supply and install glass block windows, walls, and showers.

Nationwide 877-668-5888

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Financial Burdens From Church Leaders

I really can't believe how many people that don't have enough money and could be living below poverty levels, often he as much as they can to their religious organizations. It saddens me to see those who don't have enough to eat, giving money to their church, even though they needed more than God does.

I realize that the Bible tells its followers to give at least 10% of their earnings to their church or temple. The problem is, that the Bible doesn't provide any information for people that constantly give money to the church, even though they can't afford to. They need this money for food and to educate their children.

I guess it's okay, to form a dependency on your church, even though you could provide for yourself, if you didn't give away all of your money. There are plenty of churches that will provide their patrons with close, food and some of them will even provide shelter for the poor or homeless.

The financial burdens that are produced by some church leaders, make me sick. They make those who can't afford to give, feel guilty and this guilt eats away at them like a cancerous disease, working its way through your vital and important body parts.

I'm going to suggest something to the church leaders. Quit making people feel guilty, simply because you need more money to accomplish the things that you are planning to do. It doesn't really matter, if the stuff that you are doing is great for wonderful, if you're doing it at the expense of others.

I would also like to give some advice to those people who can't afford to give away their money. Quit giving it away. Save your money, feed your family, by your own clothes, and save up for your children's education.

Some of, the money that you are giving to your religious organization, might be squandered away on your church leaders programs. These programs might have nothing to do with God's desire for a better world.

Click Here For A Fascinating Journey Into Christianity - Great Book About The Bible

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

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Is Overpopulation a Religious Problem?

Overpopulation really isn't that hard to understand. People love each other, want to reproduce and have offspring. Their parents took care of them, and they will take care of their children. People love to have families and these families love to have more families. It doesn't get any simpler than that.

Now is overpopulation a religious problem? If you listen to religious text and understand a few simple sentences, you will see that there are plenty of religions all over the world that encourage the multiplication of mankind.

In the Bible, God tells man to be fruitful and multiply. If you read this a little differently, you might take it that God wants men to eat as much fruit as he wants to and plant more trees so that he can have more fruit and be fruitful.

That's not exactly how most Christians read this Bible verse. Christians need to have more children, and their children need to have more children. This is how they interpret the words, to be fruitful and multiply.

I do believe that religions all over the world play an important part in our worlds population problem today. It's not the people who are educated, that are constantly reproducing, in today's world.

Most religions support population expansion, but what are they going to do, once the world becomes so overpopulated, that we can't even take care of ourselves. This should give you another point of view to look at, especially if you one part of the problem and not the solution.

What About The End of The World

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His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with superior biblical knowledge , answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

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Are Your Prayers Being Answered by God - Christianity

I spent a large portion of my life praying for things that never seem to come about, like most of us. I would pray for a better life, help with solving certain problems, good health, a new car, to attract abundance into my life, wealth and happiness. I can tell you that I am in good health and have a better life than I used to but I never got the new car and seemed to have a hard time solving certain problems that I was praying for.

Now here's the catch in Christianity. If I pray for something and I get it, great God has blessed you and you must have done something good to receive what you had prayed for. If you don't receive what you prayed for within the next couple of days, maybe it isn't the right time to receive what you were asking for. If I receive what I have prayed for after that, God has answered my prayers and has given me what I needed at the right time. God knows best and I will continue to pray.

When I ask someone who prays often, how do you really know that God has answered your prayers. In Christianity, I'm talking about God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit. I'm not talking about Zeus, Krishna, or any other unspecified creator of the universe. How do you really know that your God has given you what you ask for.

Now think about this for a second, I know that as a Christian you believe in your God but what if, the Hindu god Indra has actually answered my prayer and blessed you. How do I know that Jesus is not one of the Hindu gods, hiding under another name. Could I actually be manifesting my desires from the universe somehow and I am actually God. Think about it, if this doesn't make sense to you, have you ever thought about why yours does.

The minute that I accept something as a fact, I have closed my mind to other possibilities. The world was flat at one time and now it is round. I do not accept the earth has being round, simply because someone has told me this. I can look at pictures, read books, watch movies and come to my own conclusion that there is a very good chance that the earth is round, but I can't seem to forget at one time people thought the earth was flat.

Most of us never even question what we are taught. If you were taught that Jesus, Krishna, Satan or any other god answers your prayers, that's what you probably still believe. Whether your prayers are being answered or not, does not guarantee the existence or deny the existence of God. What you're thinking caps on, Seek and You Will Find.

Eliminate Bible Propaganda

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

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Could You Be a Married Adulterer? - For Christians Only

Adultery has been going on for centuries and obviously was a problem 2500 years ago or it wouldn't have been mentioned in the Bible so many times. Could you actually be married to someone and be considered an adulterer? It's time for you to learn all the rules in the New Testament about adultery.

Here's a Bible verse that could get a lot of Christians in trouble. Mark 10:11-12 (New King James Version)" 11 So He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery."

It looks a little more complicated than most of us could have ever thought. Whoever divorces his wife and marries another, has committed adultery. That means that there are millions of Christians all over the world who have committed adultery.

I've got some more bad news for Christians who might have looked at a woman lustfully. Matthew 5:28 (New International Version Bible) "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This isn't looking good, for men or women is it?

If you've never been married, but while you were at church, notice an attractive woman or man and had lustful thoughts, about them, you're an adulterer. I know, it sounds a little harsh, but I'm not making anything up here, it's right out of the Bible.

I know things aren't looking good but I would like to leave you with a comforting thought. If you were divorced from your spouse because of an adulterous relationship, things might be starting to look a little different with this next Bible verse.

Matthew 19:9 (New International Version Bible) I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery."

These are typical contradictions and they are located throughout the Bible. Mark 10:11-12 states that all divorced people who have remarried, commit adultery. Matthew 19:9 states something completely different, if your divorced and your ex spouse has been unfaithful during your marriage and you remarry, everything is okay.

Are you even more confused than when I started? There's a good chance that you are. I'm even confused and I wrote the article. The real question is, can we remarry or can't we.

This would be a good topic during Bible study. You can start by asking, how many people are adulterers?

Read This Today

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

Click here if you're interested in the Bible truth.

Embrace the Idea About Learning - Shouldn't You Be Studying the Bible Regularly?

Most Christians own at least one Bible, but the idea of studying it on a regular basis, is normally considered a difficult task for those to perform. If you really want to call yourself a Christian, shouldn't you at least understand, a few things in the Bible?

Maybe something about Adam and Eve, Noah's Ark, or what about that guy, what's his name, I think he died for our sins and wasn't he the son of God, what was his name... You might think I'm kidding, but very few Christians, know very little about the Bible.

How do we get Christians to embrace the idea that studying the Bible could benefit them or change their views entirely about their religion? I've always had problems with those who consider themselves practicing Christians, while trying to convert others to Christianity with a limited knowledge about the religion itself.

If you go to church every Sunday, there's a good chance that you will have to touch the holy book of scriptures, at least once. You might even pick it up and turn some of the pages while listening to the sermon. Is this the only time during the week that you will pick up the Bible? And does this bother you?

What about those who read the Bible regularly and don't take the time to interpret it literally. Read the Bible, word for word in order to get a simple understanding of each Bible verse. Don't try to read anything into it or look for hidden messages.

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to answer simple questions or understand what your church leaders are talking about? When they mention Paul or Isaiah, are you thinking about your cousin and his friend? Spend a little more time learning about your religion and you will reap the rewards that education has to offer.

There Are Plenty of Problems with the Bible and If You Need More Help, Click on This Link Understanding the Bible

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

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Tithing Education - Giving From Guilt

If you're part of any organized religion and donate money on a regular basis, do you know where your money is going? Have you ever asked what they are spending the money on? Are you one of those people who feels that your pastor and church leaders know best and never even ask them, because you might feel inferior to them? Have you asked in the past and were told not to worry about it but still would like to know.

Before you give your hard earned money away, whether you're doing it out of guilt or pleasure, make sure you're supporting the right organization. You should never feel the need to donate money if you don't have it to give.

I went to a church that had funds for everything, building funds, starvation funds, church funds and even funds to fund of funds if they ran out of money. Okay I just threw that last part in their but all kidding aside, there's plenty of stuff to be done in our country, to help the starving, the poor and the needy. Why do we need to go to other countries?

I want to make a suggestion to people who can't afford to give their money away but feel guilty if they don't. In the Bible it tells you to give away 10% of your earnings to the church. The part that it doesn't tell you is what to do if you can't afford to give 10% to the church. I personally have known quite a few people who give money out of guilt and fear but will tell you that this is a requirement of their religion and its okay. God will take care of us and he always does.

I don't really believe God, the all powerful all-knowing and loving creator, wants us to suffer, if we just don't make enough money to survive. If you're planning on sending your child to a Christian private school and could only afford to send them to that school, using the money that you were going to tithe to the church, what will you do? Tithe the money to the church so that they can use it to feed hungry people in other countries or build a new church somewhere or help with your child's education.

Some of these decisions are made difficult by religious doctrine and these are the parts of organized religion that I have problems with. When do we use common sense, combined with a little education to seek the truth. Does your religion ask you to seek the truth but not to gather your information beyond their religious boundaries?

Only give what you can afford to give and feel good about it. If you don't feel good about giving your money away, don't do it. Take care of yourself, so that you can take care of others, if you choose to. Living a life of fear and guilt doesn't make sense.

Question Your Religion

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a religious help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

My Message From God - Christian Spirituality

This is a special article to me and I would like to share it with you. It seems like, every one that I have ever met, who refers to themselves as Christians, have received a special message from God.

I would like to share my message from God with every person in the world.

Why would God go out of his way to create evil people? To create people that wouldn't convert to his religion. To understand the true meaning of the one true religion. To have the ability to comprehend the truth and wisdom of Christianity.

I have been listening to Christians for years, talk about evil, the influence of the Bible on Christians, gifts from God, questioning their beliefs, lacking understanding for things that God doesn't give them or things that he takes away from them and excluding sinners from their lives.

I've been listening to Christians talk about love and caring, but excluding sinners, homosexuals and women from their church. Not allowing women to hold decision of authority or allowing them to perform certain tasks, inside of the Church.

I've been listening to Christians, quote from the Bible, with limited knowledge of the origins of that individual Bible verse, let alone the origins of their church or how Christianity was formed.

I've listened to them judge me for my beliefs and condemn others for theirs, while they are telling me about decision's they are making within their own lives, that don't support Christianity.

Just because you go to church, read the Bible or simply believe that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, doesn't make you an educated Christian. It only makes you a Christian.

My message from God is simple. Learn more about Christianity and this will allow you to do one of two things. Either you will become a stronger Christian or you will relinquish your beliefs in Christianity.

Either way you will have learned more about Christianity and could consider yourself an educated Christian or simply an educated person.

Advanced Bible Study

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

Click here if you're a Spiritual Chrsitian.

Rocking the Foundation of Christianity

Whatever you build a house, you start with the foundation, if you're writing a book, it might be an outline for the table of contacts, but when were talking about Christianity, rarely do any Christians ever research the origins or how Christianity began.

Most Christians assume that Jesus was the one who started Christianity, however, he was Jewish and there is a good chance that he never even thought about starting a new religion. I know, Jesus is God and he knows everything and he knew that he was going to start Christianity. Okay, but what if.

That might not be entirely true. We don't have any proof that Jesus was actually a superior god like being. We can speculate or assume all that we want to, however there is very little evidence to support, that Jesus did anything that the writers of the New Testament, suggested he had done.

I would like to challenge most Christians, to do a little research and quite possibly start rocking the foundation of Christianity. It's much more important to understand Christianity than to call yourself a Christian. Will a little bit of research help or hurt you, as you study Christianity.

You can start by looking at the origins of the Bible, the Council of Nicaea, the Emperor Constantine, the missing years of Jesus in the early Roman Catholic Church.

To understand anything, you must understand its origins. Take some time out of your busy life, to start studying the foundation of Christianity.

Do Christians Believe Everything
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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a Christian Article Library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.
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When Do We Get to Meet God's Parents?

If God is the creator of the universe, who is the creator of God? When I was born, I had a mother and a father and supposedly the two of them together had created me. One could not have created me without the other and therefore I am a product of my parents. I know who my parents are and I even know who their parents are but who is God's parents and were we made in the images of our parents or creators.

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth but before that, we know very little about God. Did he have brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, grandparents and even God parents. If he did have brothers and sisters, did they create worlds like he did or she did, we don't know whether God is a man or a woman, transvestite, homosexual or a combination of all of these. We really don't know what God is, even though Michelangelo painted him on the Sistine Chapel.

In the book of revelations it mentions, Revelation 22:13 "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." God says that he is the first and the last, does this mean that there was no one or no entity before him. It goes back to the chicken and the egg, what was first the chicken or the egg, no one knows. Well god knows doesn't he. I don't know why I keep referring to God as a he but bear with me on this one.

I wonder if God was disciplined as a child or even if he was a child. Maybe God was born a full grown person or even a mysterious entity in the form of a smoky cloud. That couldn't be, because God made us in his image and I'm sure that his mother and father look like us. Well, hopefully they look better than us, maybe someone like Brad Pitt or Jennifer Aniston. I hope that he wasn't an ugly person or entity. That would be discouraging.

I guess that's enough of the humor, I rarely hear anyone talk about, who created God. If God formed out of nothingness, why couldn't our earth have formed from nothingness, without God. If God did have parents, brothers and sisters, have they created other universes and what is the purpose of their creations. Are we just one big experiment, part of a big science project?

Anyone interested in using this article to make a movie, feel free to use this information at no charge, I would love to see the movie, when it's done.

Good Christian News

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

If you're really seeking the kingdom of heaven, the glory of God and the true vision that Jesus had, check out some great Christian articles. These articles are designed to teach and educate Christians.

Good Christians Really Do Inspire Me

One of the best Christians who I ever met, truly inspired me and everyone around him to become a better person. His son is now working at a church and his daughter is a teacher and they're not the only people who he inspired.

He inspired me to write this article, good Christians really do inspire me and others and he definitely was living his life, like Jesus did. He's the only person that I ever met, who didn't have anything bad to say about anyone, with the exception of one time. I actually heard him say that he hates that person, the person probably deserved it, but I still couldn't believe that the word came out of his mouth.

We all make mistakes, even he did, every once in a while. Whenever someone asked him about Christianity, he would try to avoid sharing his beliefs with them, unless they were persistent and then he would share all that he knew.

He never tried to convert anyone and never forced his opinions on anyone else. I asked him once," Did he actually read all of those books that he had in his library." He said that he actually did and I was shocked. He had three large library shelves that were each 4 foot wide and went almost all the way up to the ceiling, filled with books on Christianity and some on other religions.

He's the only man I ever met, that I would actually consider to be a good Christian. I don't know what it was about him, his honesty, compassion or simple kindness, but I valued his friendships and kept my ears open and my mouth shut... most of the time.

If you know someone like this in your life, I would advise you to take full advantage of their wisdom and let them inspire you to become a better Christian and if you don't believe in Christianity, these people can inspire you to become better person. A great life can be acquired, learning the wisdom from people who lead great lives.

Unbelievable Christian Bible Study Book

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Do you really know why you're a Christian, click on this way to get more information about Becoming Really Good Christians

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

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Living the Ultimate Lie - Religious Fundamentalism

I've been doing research on Christianity and other religions throughout the world for quite some time and find it hard to believe that most of these religious followers, won't even listen to facts that I and others have found regarding their religion.

I find most of these people to be living the ultimate lie and when it comes to Christian fundamentalism or someone who I would consider to be a super Christian, these people adamantly hold both hands over their ears, while stomping their feet, trying to scare me into submission.

No matter how you slice it, no matter how you want it delivered to you, the truth is always going to be the truth. If you won't listen to the truth, you will live trapped living in a world of lies. It doesn't matter whether you're a Christian who believes in Jesus or an Islamic follower of believes in Allah, the truth, for most people, can only be found outside of your religion.

Let me give you an example of what I'm talking about. How many religions talk about how the world was created, most of their followers, choose to believe their religious leaders and their religious text, without ever questioning, but often doubting what they were taught.

Science teaches us one way, religion teaches us another, however, neither one of them have any scientific evidence to back up their theories.

The minute that you state either one of these beliefs as a truth, you're living in a world of lies. If a scientist or religious leader, can convince you that their way is right, they have simply took a belief, without any evidence and made it into a fact. This illusion, is simply a belief that you have personally made into a truth and as long as you continue to believe this, without doing any of your own research, you will continue to spread lies and rumors throughout the world.

Problems With Noah's Ark Story

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a religous article library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

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Embrace the Idea About Learning - Shouldn't You Be Studying the Bible Regularly?

Most Christians own at least one Bible, but the idea of studying it on a regular basis, is normally considered a difficult task for those to perform. If you really want to call yourself a Christian, shouldn't you at least understand, a few things in the Bible?

Maybe something about Adam and Eve, Noah's Ark, or what about that guy, what's his name, I think he died for our sins and wasn't he the son of God, what was his name... You might think I'm kidding, but very few Christians, know very little about the Bible.

How do we get Christians to embrace the idea that studying the Bible could benefit them or change their views entirely about their religion? I've always had problems with those who consider themselves practicing Christians, while trying to convert others to Christianity with a limited knowledge about the religion itself.

If you go to church every Sunday, there's a good chance that you will have to touch the holy book of scriptures, at least once. You might even pick it up and turn some of the pages while listening to the sermon. Is this the only time during the week that you will pick up the Bible? And does this bother you?

What about those who read the Bible regularly and don't take the time to interpret it literally. Read the Bible, word for word in order to get a simple understanding of each Bible verse. Don't try to read anything into it or look for hidden messages.

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to answer simple questions or understand what your church leaders are talking about? When they mention Paul or Isaiah, are you thinking about your cousin and his friend? Spend a little more time learning about your religion and you will reap the rewards that education has to offer.

There Are Plenty of Problems with the Bible and If You Need More Help, Click on This Link Understanding the Bible

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author and a inspiration to millions of people. He has been involved in religious research for almost 30 years, and his influence in the Christian community is growing. The Holy Bible, is the core to Christian beliefs and most Christians don't even question it. Was the Bible actually written by men?

His newest book," Did God Actually Say That?" Was written specifically for Christians who are interested in gaining additional knowledge about the Bible. This book provides Christians with advanced biblical knowledge, answer some tough questions and should be read by every faithful follower of Christ.

Click Here If You're a Positive Christian Person.

Rethinking Today's Religions - Misleading Our Children

When I was a young man, my parents told me about Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. Every Christmas, there would be presents underneath the tree from Santa Claus and on Easter I would get a basket full of candy and eggs. However, when I was 11 years old, my parents broke the devastating news to me, there was no Santa Claus or Easter Bunny.

As you can imagine, I cried for hours over the frustration and disappointment. For one, I thought that I wasn't going to get any more Christmas gifts, but my parents provided me with the needed psychological relief and told me that they were going to provide Christmas gifts for me, until I died. Even though I was upset, I was relieved and confused.

If my parents lied about this, could they have possibly lied about something else, anything else. Have you ever thought about this and is there a situation in your life today that could be an old habit that never got corrected. Some theme that your parents told you when you were a child that was a lie and they never told you the truth. Maybe they never told you the truth because they don't even know themselves that it's a lie.

Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny were obviously disappointments to me and most people that I've talked to about their experiences, with their parents and even their children. Why do we do this as parents to our children, even though we didn't like it when it was done to us. Hard to explain why we can't break certain habits and certain traditions.

I love Christmas and the joy of giving. Even though I am no longer a Christian, I enjoy going over to my relatives homes and spending Christmas or Christmas Eve with them. Now for the bad news, if you were raised to believe in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism or any other large religious organization. Let me ask you this, do you think that it could be like Santa Claus, do you think the religion you believe in so strongly could be a story that has gotten out of control over the centuries.

I've spent a life time rethinking today's religions and can't find very many facts to prove any one religion is superior over another. Do your own research and find your own answers. Enlightenment could be as simple as gathering the right information.

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended books, You Can Have It All

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Law of Attraction Self-Help - How to Create Powerful Visualizations

Have you heard of people who've changed their lives completely for the better using Law of Attraction self help? You can do this too, when you learn how to create powerful visualizations.

Start by deciding how you want your life to change.

1. Make Three Wishes

Once we reach adulthood, we stop using our imaginations. Can you remember the games you played as a child, and how much fun they were? When you use Law of Attraction self help, your aim is to get back to this happy, carefree state of mind.

Pretend you're in a fairy tale, and your fairy godmother has asked you to make three wishes - these wishes will all come true.

Write down your three wishes. Writing them down ensures that you remember what they are. Date the piece of paper, and put it somewhere safe.

2. Create Scenarios for Your Wishes

Next, create some scenarios for your wishes. A scenario is just an imaginative scene - a visualization. For example, let's say that one of your wishes was for a house with an ocean view, which is yours, and completely paid for.

Imagine the house on a huge movie screen, at least 30 feet long. See the house as clearly as you can. Move from room to room. See the garden. Then step into the scene, and enjoy your house.

Create at least one scenario for each of your three wishes.

3. How Do You Feel?

Your emotions power your visualization. Step back into your visualizations, and now take special note of how you feel. Are you happy? Excited? Relaxed? Remember how you felt in each visualization.

4. Day-Dreaming Each Morning and Evening

Next, spend a few minutes with your visualizations every morning, and evening - before you get out of bed in the morning, and just before you fall asleep are great times.

5. Releasing and Allowing

Keep enjoying your morning and evening visualizations, but release any attachment to how they will manifest. Let them go in your mind. They're your creations, and the universe will bring them to you - it's inevitable - but the "how" of manifestation isn't up to you.

Before you know it, the Law of Attraction self help will bring your three wishes to you. Here's the best part: you can make as many wishes as you please, so make three more.

Are you ready to change your life and use the law of attraction to create what you want? Start with Julia Denham's law of attraction reviews, and then visit her law of attraction blog at http://loa-prosperity.com/

The Power of Truth

Everything you need to succeed is found within you. How you see yourself and your ability to succeed will be "make or break" of your business. I've seen some amazingly talented people give up because they allowed two words to take over their psyches. These words have had a profound impact on their lives and businesses. The words are, "I can't."

"I can't" are the two most debilitating words in the English language. "I can't" usually starts with the all to familiar "You can't," or "You'll never". These words seem to carry an intrinsic power. For some, it's a call to stand up and say, "Yes I can! Watch me!" For others it's call to sit in the ashes of self-defeat. Which one are you?

For years I allowed, "You can't" to get in the way of my success. There was a time when I believed I would never be a success. My self-esteem was so low I didn't think I could get up again. Then I realized the Power of Truth. The choice to get up or stay down had been given to me. My success or failure was up to me, no one else. I became fully aware that I had the power to choose. I chose to stand. After I made that decision. I made several changes in my life in order to keep my mind set on belief instead of unbelief.

My rules to stay standing are:

1. Start where you are. Don't think about past failures. Start right here, right now, today. Move ahead one-step at a time.

2. For every negative thought that comes into your mind create an opposing positive thought. Say it out loud. Write them down and keep them front of you. Read them daily.

3. Commit to your goal. Write down your goals. Make sure they are manageable and commit to making them happen. Keeping them visible is a great way of keeping them real.

4. Be in good company. Stay around positive people. Read positive material. I highly suggest joining online groups to provide support and accountability.

5. Trust the Power of Truth. No matter where you go there are going to be those who will want to knock you down. Connect with your inner power. Remember who you really are. Don't go back to the ashes.

Make the choice to stand.

Jill Betz Freeman is the CEO of ROAR! Growing Your Business With Pride. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and small businesses grow. Jill has over 15 years of experience in sales, marketing, business development, customer service and corporate training. Shel is a saavy, vivacious, straight on consultant and trainer who is commited to working with companies, business owners and sales professionals who want to increase their bottom line. She has trained sales people involved in diverse industries such as healthcare and engineering. Stacy Kelly, CEO of PM Squared in Houston TX said, "Jill is the go-to person for sales advice." Beth Felege, BSN and Clinical Liason for a major skilled nursing company praised Jill as being, "the person who taught me the most about sales."

Check out ROAR! at http://www.roarcorps.com and contant Jill for more information about services.

Page View Logic As Applied To Article Writing & Marketing - Increase Your Page Views - More Traffic

Do you want to grow the level of traffic to your website? Most people think that they want to get more HITS, but what they really want to grow is their "page views". Let's look at a very basic formula for growing your page views.

Page Views vs. HITS: (Definitions)

HITS is so 1990's as HITS has also been knows as: How Idiots Track Success. If you have 3 images on a page, you might be generating 4 hits each time someone views your page. Therefore, it's largely a useless number. (1) Page View is equal to one view of your page. If you get 100k page views, you could say that someone pulled down and looked at 100k pages of your content. Bottom line: You want to grow your page views.

The Page View Secret Formula

Your total page views in a given time period is directly related to the number of quality original articles / pages you have available in your website or article inventory and you can increase your leverage by the uniqueness/quality/exclusivity of your articles.

Forget complicated or sneaky SEO strategies. All you really need to do is focus on driving the number of pages of content you have by producing more quality original articles that are unique.

Each article you have is an agent of yours...working for you, selling 24 hours a day. Want more traffic? Create more article agents.

The quality, relevance and uniqueness factor of your content either creates, enhances and builds trust with your user base and sites that refer traffic to you or it destroys trust. Raw quantity of pages of content alone is not enough. You must focus on quality original content if you want to build trust with your market.

Page View Analogies:

Here are two analogies to drive home Chris Knight's Page View theory 101:

Grocery Store: Have you ever gone to a small country-side grocery store that has perhaps 10k or 20k SKU's (products for sale)? While this might meet your convenience needs, it does not meet your variety needs compared to a super market that might have 100k SKU's in stock. Grocery stores know their SKU count because they are constantly trying to maximize revenue on paper thin margins and you can't drive sales if you only have a few thousand SKU's.

Chorus: You can't drive article marketing traffic success without more article agents selling for you. Therefore, create more articles and set a goal to have thousands of them as part of your business plan.

Search Engines: Ever surf a small search engine to do a general search? They might have a few hundred million entries, but never enough to rival the 20+ billion entries of the major players in the search engine space. The small guys get displaced and forgotten as consumers demand variety, thoroughness and choice.

Chorus: You need more article agents selling for you. Write another 100 quality original articles before the month is over and put them to work.

Page View Creation Bottom line:

Total page views generated over a given time period is directly related to how many pages or articles of content that you have and your leverage factor is directly related to the quality and uniqueness of your content. 10, 100 or 1,000 articles may not cut it any more. You need thousands of quality original articles that work for you, 24 hours a day. Time to think bigger. Yes, it is possible. Yes, others have done this already. Yes, you can do it too! Get started today.

About The Author:

Christopher M. Knight invites you to submit your best quality original articles for massive exposure to the high-traffic http://EzineArticles.com/ expert author community. When you submit your articles to EzineArticles.com, your articles will be picked up by ezine publishers who will reprint your articles with your content and links intact giving you traffic surges to help you increase your sales. To submit your article, setup a membership account today: http://EzineArticles.com/submit/

(c) Copyright - Christopher M. Knight. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

Acoustic Ceiling Water Damage

Advantages Of Using A Sump Pump Cover

Eighty five percent of homes in the US experience a flooded basement sooner or later - these are the estimates from home builders and insurance providers.

The sump pump was invented to handle minor basement flooding problems, and this solution came with it's own set of new problems. Questions about safety soon arouse with this machinery open and exposed. Also, small animals could get stuck in the sump pit. Unable to escape it could clog the system, as well as cause an unpleasant mess when it came time to cleanup.

These issues, of course lead to the sump pump cover being made available.

Installing a sump pump cover gives the security and peace of mind that no one can bump, step on, or otherwise damage the unit - leaving your basement unprotected. And no foreign objects will be able to enter the sump pit causing malfunction or inefficiency.

Today, more and more systems are sold with a complete line of accessories, which includes a cover. Other sources of sump pump covers are specialty home stores that sometimes carry these items sold separately from a pump unit.

Now days, it is fairly standard for sump pumps sold in the United States to include covers. If you are outside the United States, or in need of a cover for an older installation, check the specialty home stores near you.

Safety issues

Do not be tempted to leave the cover off after any routine servicing or maintenance. The system can run just fine without it, so long as it doesn't get damaged, or objects get caught in the sump pit possibly causing failure. You will probably never even know about any such damage until you need your basement sump pump the most.

One final advantage is the dust and dirt that is kept away from the workings. Keeping this dirt away helps keep the system from overheating and ensures a long service life of your sump pump system. There's really no disadvantage to using a sump pump cover. Without one, you risk premature failure when you need your sump pump the most.

Pumps-and-Filters.com presents Sump pump covers - if you don't have a cover now, you'll want one - See Sump pump covers

Attitude - Is it Really the Difference Maker?

What is attitude? We hear this term from all motivational speakers. We have heard from our mothers, fathers and teachers when they have said, "Your attitude stinks," or "Young man, you'd better change your attitude." Let's see what Webster's says about attitude: " A manner or posture of carrying one self. A state of mind or feeling." It is interesting that this attitude is both a state of mind as well as a reflection of how we carry ourselves on the outside. In other words, attitude is an inward feeling expressed by outward behavior.

Some say attitude is everything. That one can have everything he or she desires by changing attitude. But is that an overstatement. John C. Maxwell in his new book "The Difference Maker," says, "The right attitude cannot make you something you are not, but it can enhance everything you have and all that you are."

I have been training, motivating and empowering sales teams for more than 25 years and I must say I agree with John Maxwell. One must have skills and competence in certain areas one is attaining to. A good example is you can have the best attitude in the world, and visualize and write powerful positive affirmations to be a brain surgeon. But if the good Lord did not give you the gift of exceptional intelligence and you failed all your natural science courses in college, I doubt having a great attitude will get you to your goal.

I will admit as a VP of Sales hiring sales folks they must have the skills, experience and competency to do the job. But the very next thing I look for is attitude. I want team players, problem solvers and folks that care about building and encouraging those around them.

So how big is attitude? Is it the little difference that makes all the difference in the world?

W. Clement Stone puts it this way, "There is little difference in people, but the little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative."

The following are some Barriers for us to break through when it comes to attitude:

1. Discouragement: You must win over discouragement by speaking positive to yourself and others. Put positive people around you. Have the right expectations.

2. Change: Embrace it and confront it head on. Change will always be in front of you it is a part of life. Re-frame it and look for positive improvements.

3. Problems: Be a problem solver. Start off with evaluating, analyzing, assessing alternatives, and bring forth positive recommendations.

4. Conquer Fear: Fear is the other side of faith. You must confront it and go through it to get your miracle.

5. Accept Failure: I had a boss who used to say, "I worry about you if you and your team are not failing, it tells me your are not trying new innovated things so you must be playing it safe and predictable." How are we going to grow and take on new challenges if you are afraid to fail? Step out and don't take it all so seriously.

Does attitude make ALL the difference in the world? Maybe not ALL but it is sure close. You see without it you will not be able to grow and stretch beyond your current God-given talents. You ask how? Well you see, none of us will get ahead in life unless a lot of people want us to. A positive attitude is your most valuable asset every day. It helps in little issues and provides for a positive framework in which to approach life.

As the famous Yogi Berra said, "Life is like baseball; it's 95 percent mental, and the other half is physical." A positive attitude is a difference maker so pass it on and have a blessed life.

Len Strickler is best described as a motivational coach, teacher and speaker who is unquestionably passionate about building, training, and leading remarkably successful sales teams that deliver fast-to-market results. As a sales executive, he has spent more than 25 years helping high-tech, global companies capture revenue to support product innovation activities, seize a competitive advantage, and generate profit fast. He thrives on the challenges and adventures of working in a global environment. He integrates a powerful mix of visionary leadership, collaborative team approaches, innovative thinking, and sales team mentoring and training to deliver enviable sales results for companies interested in shattering sales performance records.

Are you ready to take your company to the next level? Let Len help your company or team "Break Through The Barriers!" Book him today to speak at your next event!