2
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Bakhtawar Ahmed bakhto22
The Importance of Breakfast
In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like a daunting task. However, one of the simplest yet most impactful habits you can adopt is starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. This small act not only sets a positive tone for the rest of your day but also provides numerous health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.
Why Breakfast Matters
Breakfast is rightly hailed as the most important meal of the day for several reasons. After a night of fasting, your body needs essential nutrients to replenish its energy reserves and kick-start your metabolism. A balanced breakfast fuels your body and mind, improving concentration, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and make better food choices later in the day.
Components of a Healthy Breakfast
A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrients to ensure optimal functioning:
Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains like oats, whole wheat bread, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber, which aids digestion.
Protein: Eggs, yogurt, nuts, or lean meats offer essential amino acids that help repair and build tissues, support immune function, and keep you feeling full longer.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support brain function and heart health.
Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for overall health and disease prevention.
Tips for a Balanced Breakfast
Plan Ahead: Prepare breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.
Avoid Sugary Foods: Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices or sugary cereals to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body after hours of sleep.
Listen to Your Body: Eat when you feel hungry, and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating.
Incorporating Breakfast into Your Routine
If you find it challenging to eat breakfast due to time constraints or lack of appetite in the morning, start with small, manageable portions. Smoothies packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein are convenient options for those on the go. Alternatively, try incorporating breakfast foods into your mid-morning snack, such as yogurt with granola or a piece of whole fruit.
Conclusion
By making breakfast a priority in your daily routine, you not only enhance your physical health but also boost your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is built on consistent habits, and breakfast is a cornerstone that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this simple yet powerful practice, and watch as it transforms your energy levels, focus, and overall quality of life. Category: Health - in Blogs
In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like a daunting task. However, one of the simplest yet most impactful habits you can adopt is starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. This small act not only sets a positive tone for the rest of your day but also provides numerous health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.
Why Breakfast Matters
Breakfast is rightly hailed as the most important meal of the day for several reasons. After a night of fasting, your body needs essential nutrients to replenish its energy reserves and kick-start your metabolism. A balanced breakfast fuels your body and mind, improving concentration, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and make better food choices later in the day.
Components of a Healthy Breakfast
A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrients to ensure optimal functioning:
Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains like oats, whole wheat bread, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber, which aids digestion.
Protein: Eggs, yogurt, nuts, or lean meats offer essential amino acids that help repair and build tissues, support immune function, and keep you feeling full longer.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support brain function and heart health.
Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for overall health and disease prevention.
Tips for a Balanced Breakfast
Plan Ahead: Prepare breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.
Avoid Sugary Foods: Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices or sugary cereals to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body after hours of sleep.
Listen to Your Body: Eat when you feel hungry, and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating.
Incorporating Breakfast into Your Routine
If you find it challenging to eat breakfast due to time constraints or lack of appetite in the morning, start with small, manageable portions. Smoothies packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein are convenient options for those on the go. Alternatively, try incorporating breakfast foods into your mid-morning snack, such as yogurt with granola or a piece of whole fruit.
Conclusion
By making breakfast a priority in your daily routine, you not only enhance your physical health but also boost your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is built on consistent habits, and breakfast is a cornerstone that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this simple yet powerful practice, and watch as it transforms your energy levels, focus, and overall quality of life. Category: Health - in Blogs
The Importance of Breakfast<br />
<br />
In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like a daunting task. However, one of the simplest yet most impactful habits you can adopt is starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. This small act not only sets a positive tone for the rest of your day but also provides numerous health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.<br />
<br />
Why Breakfast Matters<br />
Breakfast is rightly hailed as the most important meal of the day for several reasons. After a night of fasting, your body needs essential nutrients to replenish its energy reserves and kick-start your metabolism. A balanced breakfast fuels your body and mind, improving concentration, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and make better food choices later in the day.<br />
<br />
Components of a Healthy Breakfast<br />
A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrients to ensure optimal functioning:<br />
<br />
Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains like oats, whole wheat bread, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber, which aids digestion.<br />
<br />
Protein: Eggs, yogurt, nuts, or lean meats offer essential amino acids that help repair and build tissues, support immune function, and keep you feeling full longer.<br />
<br />
Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support brain function and heart health.<br />
<br />
Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for overall health and disease prevention.<br />
<br />
Tips for a Balanced Breakfast<br />
Plan Ahead: Prepare breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.<br />
<br />
Avoid Sugary Foods: Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices or sugary cereals to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.<br />
<br />
Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body after hours of sleep.<br />
<br />
Listen to Your Body: Eat when you feel hungry, and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating.<br />
<br />
Incorporating Breakfast into Your Routine<br />
If you find it challenging to eat breakfast due to time constraints or lack of appetite in the morning, start with small, manageable portions. Smoothies packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein are convenient options for those on the go. Alternatively, try incorporating breakfast foods into your mid-morning snack, such as yogurt with granola or a piece of whole fruit.<br />
<br />
Conclusion<br />
By making breakfast a priority in your daily routine, you not only enhance your physical health but also boost your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is built on consistent habits, and breakfast is a cornerstone that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this simple yet powerful practice, and watch as it transforms your energy levels, focus, and overall quality of life.
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Rebecca Ebert Rebecca_Ebert
Category: Photography - in Blogs
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>
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Tiya Sowell tiya1969
ODE TO SATURDAY MORNINGS
Saturday mornings are meant for rest and relaxation….except in an African American household. Saturdays are meant for a deep scrubbing from the inside to the outside, usually to be completed by noon so we could go outside and ride our bikes and play until the streetlights came on, or in my case, piano lessons until early afternoon and THEN ride the day away all over the city of Columbus on my white 10-speed.
Early mornings, we would wake to my mom’s homemade apple or cherry turnovers or Bob Evan’s recipe biscuits. My younger sister and I woud have the inside of the house and our brothers would have the outside. Once we all came together in the middle, we would eat, get dressed and head to piano lessons on 18th Street with the incomparable Vincent Walters.
Music comprehension for one hour, hanging with some like-minded creatives (we really weren’t), and then home to Soul Train at noon and friends, kickball, garden hoses and Dixie cups and the creek for the rest of the day and night. Being a kid was so easy in the 80’s. My only stress was if the neighbor boy liked me more than he did Kim Cherry. That was it. That was all. Childhood and Saturdays was a blast! No cell phones, no child predators lurking the streets (we knew everyone who belonged). Just simple childhood fun.
What is your ode to Saturday?
Category: Family - in Blogs
Saturday mornings are meant for rest and relaxation….except in an African American household. Saturdays are meant for a deep scrubbing from the inside to the outside, usually to be completed by noon so we could go outside and ride our bikes and play until the streetlights came on, or in my case, piano lessons until early afternoon and THEN ride the day away all over the city of Columbus on my white 10-speed.
Early mornings, we would wake to my mom’s homemade apple or cherry turnovers or Bob Evan’s recipe biscuits. My younger sister and I woud have the inside of the house and our brothers would have the outside. Once we all came together in the middle, we would eat, get dressed and head to piano lessons on 18th Street with the incomparable Vincent Walters.
Music comprehension for one hour, hanging with some like-minded creatives (we really weren’t), and then home to Soul Train at noon and friends, kickball, garden hoses and Dixie cups and the creek for the rest of the day and night. Being a kid was so easy in the 80’s. My only stress was if the neighbor boy liked me more than he did Kim Cherry. That was it. That was all. Childhood and Saturdays was a blast! No cell phones, no child predators lurking the streets (we knew everyone who belonged). Just simple childhood fun.
What is your ode to Saturday?
Category: Family - in Blogs
ODE TO SATURDAY MORNINGS<br />
<br />
Saturday mornings are meant for rest and relaxation….except in an African American household. Saturdays are meant for a deep scrubbing from the inside to the outside, usually to be completed by noon so we could go outside and ride our bikes and play until the streetlights came on, or in my case, piano lessons until early afternoon and THEN ride the day away all over the city of Columbus on my white 10-speed.<br />
<br />
Early mornings, we would wake to my mom’s homemade apple or cherry turnovers or Bob Evan’s recipe biscuits. My younger sister and I woud have the inside of the house and our brothers would have the outside. Once we all came together in the middle, we would eat, get dressed and head to piano lessons on 18th Street with the incomparable Vincent Walters.<br />
<br />
Music comprehension for one hour, hanging with some like-minded creatives (we really weren’t), and then home to Soul Train at noon and friends, kickball, garden hoses and Dixie cups and the creek for the rest of the day and night. Being a kid was so easy in the 80’s. My only stress was if the neighbor boy liked me more than he did Kim Cherry. That was it. That was all. Childhood and Saturdays was a blast! No cell phones, no child predators lurking the streets (we knew everyone who belonged). Just simple childhood fun.<br />
<br />
What is your ode to Saturday?<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Family - in Blogs</span>
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Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - When Jess Michaels isn't obsessively checking her steps on FitBit or watching daytime Court TV, she's a best-selling author who writes historical romances with heroines who speak their mind.
Her first foray into publishing began, as many picture the life of an author, with a traditional publishing deal. But after releasing a few books, Michaels decided to turn down an additional deal and try self-publishing.
"I'd begun developing an audience for my books and wanted to try something different. Authors I respected had success and greater control over their work with self-publishing, so I was eager to try it for myself," says Michaels.
She mastered it quickly and decided to go "strictly indie" in 2015, using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service to publish in both eBook and print. Since her decision to self-publish, she has been on the USA bestseller list ten times. Her husband quit his job at a large technology company and now works with Michaels to run their publishing company.
"I wanted more control over not just the creative writing, but also the marketing strategy, cover art, and other business aspects of publishing. I grew frustrated being unable to make these decisions going the traditional publishing route," she says. "I'm both a writer and entrepreneur, and I'm enjoying more creative and financial rewards than I ever have."
For Michaels, who says the initial idea of going indie was "taking a leap off a cliff and hoping you can fly before you crash," the resulting benefits have exceeded her expectations.
For those authors wrestling with the idea of self-publishing, consider this:
- Creative control. Self-publishing a book allows authors to build characters and stories exactly the way they want and, ultimately, retain full rights to their original material. A book that has been nursed from inception to novel remains yours.
- Get to market fast. Once a book is ready, self-publishing services, such as KDP, guide authors through setting up their books and getting them in the hands of readers in just a matter of days.
- Make more money. Authors who opt to self-publish can set their own prices and take home a higher percentage of royalties.
While a self-published author serves as his or her own marketing department, indie publishers make marketing simple and effective. Self-publishing companies, such as Amazon, also offer authors additional promotional opportunities to make their work available to more readers.
Many authors find support through writers' groups online, such as Facebook groups, or in-person by attending workshops and writers' conferences. Most cities have local writing groups that meet regularly. These meetings can provide constructive criticism of your work and other resources.
"I fell into self-publishing by accident, and found that connecting with other authors and joining a local writers' organization helped me improve my technique and career tremendously," says self-published science fiction and fantasy author T.S. Paul. "When sales of my novels began to take off, I began working with freelancers and a virtual assistant, also, to grow the community around me."
Regardless of whether a writer is interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or biographies, self-publishing with services such as KDP can empower them to pursue their dreams, especially if they're willing to study the business side of publishing as well as Jess Michaels did.
Who knows? Maybe the best seller list is closer than you think.
For more information, visit https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.
Ref: Books - in Blogs
Her first foray into publishing began, as many picture the life of an author, with a traditional publishing deal. But after releasing a few books, Michaels decided to turn down an additional deal and try self-publishing.
"I'd begun developing an audience for my books and wanted to try something different. Authors I respected had success and greater control over their work with self-publishing, so I was eager to try it for myself," says Michaels.
She mastered it quickly and decided to go "strictly indie" in 2015, using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service to publish in both eBook and print. Since her decision to self-publish, she has been on the USA bestseller list ten times. Her husband quit his job at a large technology company and now works with Michaels to run their publishing company.
"I wanted more control over not just the creative writing, but also the marketing strategy, cover art, and other business aspects of publishing. I grew frustrated being unable to make these decisions going the traditional publishing route," she says. "I'm both a writer and entrepreneur, and I'm enjoying more creative and financial rewards than I ever have."
For Michaels, who says the initial idea of going indie was "taking a leap off a cliff and hoping you can fly before you crash," the resulting benefits have exceeded her expectations.
For those authors wrestling with the idea of self-publishing, consider this:
- Creative control. Self-publishing a book allows authors to build characters and stories exactly the way they want and, ultimately, retain full rights to their original material. A book that has been nursed from inception to novel remains yours.
- Get to market fast. Once a book is ready, self-publishing services, such as KDP, guide authors through setting up their books and getting them in the hands of readers in just a matter of days.
- Make more money. Authors who opt to self-publish can set their own prices and take home a higher percentage of royalties.
While a self-published author serves as his or her own marketing department, indie publishers make marketing simple and effective. Self-publishing companies, such as Amazon, also offer authors additional promotional opportunities to make their work available to more readers.
Many authors find support through writers' groups online, such as Facebook groups, or in-person by attending workshops and writers' conferences. Most cities have local writing groups that meet regularly. These meetings can provide constructive criticism of your work and other resources.
"I fell into self-publishing by accident, and found that connecting with other authors and joining a local writers' organization helped me improve my technique and career tremendously," says self-published science fiction and fantasy author T.S. Paul. "When sales of my novels began to take off, I began working with freelancers and a virtual assistant, also, to grow the community around me."
Regardless of whether a writer is interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or biographies, self-publishing with services such as KDP can empower them to pursue their dreams, especially if they're willing to study the business side of publishing as well as Jess Michaels did.
Who knows? Maybe the best seller list is closer than you think.
For more information, visit https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.
Ref: Books - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - When Jess Michaels isn't obsessively checking her steps on FitBit or watching daytime Court TV, she's a best-selling author who writes historical romances with heroines who speak their mind.<br />
<br />
Her first foray into publishing began, as many picture the life of an author, with a traditional publishing deal. But after releasing a few books, Michaels decided to turn down an additional deal and try self-publishing.<br />
<br />
"I'd begun developing an audience for my books and wanted to try something different. Authors I respected had success and greater control over their work with self-publishing, so I was eager to try it for myself," says Michaels.<br />
<br />
She mastered it quickly and decided to go "strictly indie" in 2015, using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service to publish in both eBook and print. Since her decision to self-publish, she has been on the USA bestseller list ten times. Her husband quit his job at a large technology company and now works with Michaels to run their publishing company.<br />
<br />
"I wanted more control over not just the creative writing, but also the marketing strategy, cover art, and other business aspects of publishing. I grew frustrated being unable to make these decisions going the traditional publishing route," she says. "I'm both a writer and entrepreneur, and I'm enjoying more creative and financial rewards than I ever have."<br />
<br />
For Michaels, who says the initial idea of going indie was "taking a leap off a cliff and hoping you can fly before you crash," the resulting benefits have exceeded her expectations.<br />
<br />
For those authors wrestling with the idea of self-publishing, consider this:<br />
<br />
- Creative control. Self-publishing a book allows authors to build characters and stories exactly the way they want and, ultimately, retain full rights to their original material. A book that has been nursed from inception to novel remains yours.<br />
<br />
- Get to market fast. Once a book is ready, self-publishing services, such as KDP, guide authors through setting up their books and getting them in the hands of readers in just a matter of days.<br />
<br />
- Make more money. Authors who opt to self-publish can set their own prices and take home a higher percentage of royalties.<br />
<br />
While a self-published author serves as his or her own marketing department, indie publishers make marketing simple and effective. Self-publishing companies, such as Amazon, also offer authors additional promotional opportunities to make their work available to more readers.<br />
<br />
Many authors find support through writers' groups online, such as Facebook groups, or in-person by attending workshops and writers' conferences. Most cities have local writing groups that meet regularly. These meetings can provide constructive criticism of your work and other resources.<br />
<br />
"I fell into self-publishing by accident, and found that connecting with other authors and joining a local writers' organization helped me improve my technique and career tremendously," says self-published science fiction and fantasy author T.S. Paul. "When sales of my novels began to take off, I began working with freelancers and a virtual assistant, also, to grow the community around me."<br />
<br />
Regardless of whether a writer is interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or biographies, self-publishing with services such as KDP can empower them to pursue their dreams, especially if they're willing to study the business side of publishing as well as Jess Michaels did.<br />
<br />
Who knows? Maybe the best seller list is closer than you think.<br />
<br />
For more information, visit <a target='_blank' href="https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.">https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.</a><br />
<br />
Ref: Books - in Blogs
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Rebecca Ebert Rebecca_Ebert
Ref: Art - in Audio Podcasts
<center><button onmouseup="tospecinit();" data-toggle="modal" data-target="#allpostaudioModal" class="btn btn-default allpostaudio-button" style="width: 130px !important;margin-bottom:25px;font-weight:bold"><i class="fa fa-play" style="margin-right:7px;color:#777"></i>Play Audio</button><input class="allpostaudio-url" style="display:none!important" value="https://stallios.com/podcasts/stinger-podcast.ogg"> </center> <br />
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Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - Are all those stories about crippling student debt having an effect on college campuses? Just ask post-Millennials now trying - albeit not always successfully - to avoid being saddled with the same heavy burden of debt as their predecessors.
According to Fidelity Investments' new "College Savings: Lessons Learned Study," not only did 83 percent of current college students surveyed consider what their total costs would be before matriculating - just 69 percent of recent graduates had such foresight - but 39 percent of them said the potential price tag was such "a huge factor" that they purposely limited their choice of schools to the most affordable. Only 32 percent of recent graduates, alas, had shown similar restraint.
"It seems today's college students are perhaps more aware of the financial situation they entered into than those who graduated before them," said Melissa Ridolfi, Fidelity's vice president of retirement and college leadership. "That's a positive development."
All told, student debt in the U.S. now totals more than $1.5 trillion - second only to mortgage debt, Forbes reported. And the 69 percent or so of the Class of 2018 who took out student loans graduated with an average debt balance of $29,800.
So you can understand why recent graduates would be so stressed out over whether they'd ever be able to pay off their loans that they're now having second thoughts about their decisions:
* 40 percent said that while they don't regret going to college, they would've made different choices in hindsight.
* Only 14 percent felt the value of their education was worth more than the money they'd spent.
Oh, and future college students should listen up for this sage advice from the more than 4,000 respondents surveyed - all recent graduates, current undergraduates, and parents of either or both - on what would've done wonders to ease their own stress levels.
"When asked 'If you knew then what you know now when it comes to school selection, what would you do differently?' the number one answer for all respondents was 'I would've started saving earlier,'" Ridolfi said.
Which logically brings us to another key finding of the study: Only 17 percent of current students and recent graduates had taken advantage, prior to college, of what's arguably one of the best ways to fund higher education: 529 savings plans.
Unlike regular bank savings accounts, they provide a tax-advantaged way to save money to cover tuition, books and other education-related expenses at most accredited two- and four-year colleges, universities and vocational-technical schools.
The key phrase being "tax-advantaged." Meaning, earnings grow federal income tax-deferred and withdrawals for qualified expenses are free from federal (and, in many places, state) income taxes - thus affording the opportunity to have even more saved for college.
Significantly, Ridolfi said families using a 529 plan managed by Fidelity have been starting to sock money away earlier than ever before, with contributions beginning on average when the child is about age six and a half. Thirty-six percent of Fidelity 529s are even opened for beneficiaries under - yes - age 2.
You say a child hasn't even uttered his or her first complete sentence before they're two? Probably not. But just so you're not bushwhacked when they suddenly hit their late teens, free online resources like Fidelity's College Savings Learning Center and College Savings Quick Check - a calculator that even shows you the impact of saving a few dollars more a month - can help prepare you for what lies ahead.
Ref: Education - in Blogs
According to Fidelity Investments' new "College Savings: Lessons Learned Study," not only did 83 percent of current college students surveyed consider what their total costs would be before matriculating - just 69 percent of recent graduates had such foresight - but 39 percent of them said the potential price tag was such "a huge factor" that they purposely limited their choice of schools to the most affordable. Only 32 percent of recent graduates, alas, had shown similar restraint.
"It seems today's college students are perhaps more aware of the financial situation they entered into than those who graduated before them," said Melissa Ridolfi, Fidelity's vice president of retirement and college leadership. "That's a positive development."
All told, student debt in the U.S. now totals more than $1.5 trillion - second only to mortgage debt, Forbes reported. And the 69 percent or so of the Class of 2018 who took out student loans graduated with an average debt balance of $29,800.
So you can understand why recent graduates would be so stressed out over whether they'd ever be able to pay off their loans that they're now having second thoughts about their decisions:
* 40 percent said that while they don't regret going to college, they would've made different choices in hindsight.
* Only 14 percent felt the value of their education was worth more than the money they'd spent.
Oh, and future college students should listen up for this sage advice from the more than 4,000 respondents surveyed - all recent graduates, current undergraduates, and parents of either or both - on what would've done wonders to ease their own stress levels.
"When asked 'If you knew then what you know now when it comes to school selection, what would you do differently?' the number one answer for all respondents was 'I would've started saving earlier,'" Ridolfi said.
Which logically brings us to another key finding of the study: Only 17 percent of current students and recent graduates had taken advantage, prior to college, of what's arguably one of the best ways to fund higher education: 529 savings plans.
Unlike regular bank savings accounts, they provide a tax-advantaged way to save money to cover tuition, books and other education-related expenses at most accredited two- and four-year colleges, universities and vocational-technical schools.
The key phrase being "tax-advantaged." Meaning, earnings grow federal income tax-deferred and withdrawals for qualified expenses are free from federal (and, in many places, state) income taxes - thus affording the opportunity to have even more saved for college.
Significantly, Ridolfi said families using a 529 plan managed by Fidelity have been starting to sock money away earlier than ever before, with contributions beginning on average when the child is about age six and a half. Thirty-six percent of Fidelity 529s are even opened for beneficiaries under - yes - age 2.
You say a child hasn't even uttered his or her first complete sentence before they're two? Probably not. But just so you're not bushwhacked when they suddenly hit their late teens, free online resources like Fidelity's College Savings Learning Center and College Savings Quick Check - a calculator that even shows you the impact of saving a few dollars more a month - can help prepare you for what lies ahead.
Ref: Education - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - Are all those stories about crippling student debt having an effect on college campuses? Just ask post-Millennials now trying - albeit not always successfully - to avoid being saddled with the same heavy burden of debt as their predecessors.<br />
<br />
According to Fidelity Investments' new "College Savings: Lessons Learned Study," not only did 83 percent of current college students surveyed consider what their total costs would be before matriculating - just 69 percent of recent graduates had such foresight - but 39 percent of them said the potential price tag was such "a huge factor" that they purposely limited their choice of schools to the most affordable. Only 32 percent of recent graduates, alas, had shown similar restraint.<br />
<br />
"It seems today's college students are perhaps more aware of the financial situation they entered into than those who graduated before them," said Melissa Ridolfi, Fidelity's vice president of retirement and college leadership. "That's a positive development."<br />
<br />
All told, student debt in the U.S. now totals more than $1.5 trillion - second only to mortgage debt, Forbes reported. And the 69 percent or so of the Class of 2018 who took out student loans graduated with an average debt balance of $29,800.<br />
<br />
So you can understand why recent graduates would be so stressed out over whether they'd ever be able to pay off their loans that they're now having second thoughts about their decisions:<br />
<br />
* 40 percent said that while they don't regret going to college, they would've made different choices in hindsight.<br />
<br />
* Only 14 percent felt the value of their education was worth more than the money they'd spent.<br />
<br />
Oh, and future college students should listen up for this sage advice from the more than 4,000 respondents surveyed - all recent graduates, current undergraduates, and parents of either or both - on what would've done wonders to ease their own stress levels.<br />
<br />
"When asked 'If you knew then what you know now when it comes to school selection, what would you do differently?' the number one answer for all respondents was 'I would've started saving earlier,'" Ridolfi said.<br />
<br />
Which logically brings us to another key finding of the study: Only 17 percent of current students and recent graduates had taken advantage, prior to college, of what's arguably one of the best ways to fund higher education: 529 savings plans.<br />
<br />
Unlike regular bank savings accounts, they provide a tax-advantaged way to save money to cover tuition, books and other education-related expenses at most accredited two- and four-year colleges, universities and vocational-technical schools.<br />
<br />
The key phrase being "tax-advantaged." Meaning, earnings grow federal income tax-deferred and withdrawals for qualified expenses are free from federal (and, in many places, state) income taxes - thus affording the opportunity to have even more saved for college.<br />
<br />
Significantly, Ridolfi said families using a 529 plan managed by Fidelity have been starting to sock money away earlier than ever before, with contributions beginning on average when the child is about age six and a half. Thirty-six percent of Fidelity 529s are even opened for beneficiaries under - yes - age 2.<br />
<br />
You say a child hasn't even uttered his or her first complete sentence before they're two? Probably not. But just so you're not bushwhacked when they suddenly hit their late teens, free online resources like Fidelity's College Savings Learning Center and College Savings Quick Check - a calculator that even shows you the impact of saving a few dollars more a month - can help prepare you for what lies ahead.<br />
<br />
Ref: Education - in Blogs
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Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - Nurses remain an essential and trusted part of the health care system, and the nation faces an urgent need for nurses due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The World Health Organization is also celebrating the value of nursing by designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. In addition, 2020 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the 19th- century social reformer known as the founder of modern nursing.
The demand for nurses, and therefore for nurse educators, is likely to remain high, according to the National League for Nursing (NLN), as nurse educators are on the front lines teaching new nurses who are filling the shortages in hospitals and other health care settings.
Nurse educators will likely continue to be well paid. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate the median salary for nurse educators at $73,490. They may work in academic settings, but some expand their focus to teaching in schools, businesses, hospitals, and community agencies.
The NLN shares some key advantages to becoming a nurse educator:
- Intellectual stimulation. Nurse educators know the latest research in the field, and have the ability to share it with others.
- Flexibility. Nurse education allows for more autonomy and a flexible schedule. Not to mention that technology allows educators to teach from anywhere in the world, at any time, from the beach to the ski slopes.
- Research. Nurse educators have opportunities for research and publication in scholarly journals to advance the field of nursing and their own careers.
- Meaning. The desire for a purpose-driven life steers many people to the nurse education field, where they can make a significant difference in a variety of ways.
- Fulfillment. Nurse educators rejoice in encouraging young students, and take pride in their accomplishments.
- Impact. Nurse educators, by shaping and developing the next generation of nurses and by working in their communities, will continue to impact the shape of healthcare for future generations.
- Inspiration. Everyone remembers the teacher or teachers who made a difference for them by giving them that extra encouragement, or helping them explore paths they might not have seen.
But quite possibly the number- one reason to become a nurse educator, according to the NLN, is the unique chance to "teach what you love."
Many career tracks exist for potential nurse educators. Teaching requires at least a master's degree in either education or nursing, but these degrees may be earned through a traditional college setting or through the variety of fully accredited programs now available online.
For more information about careers in nursing education, visit NLN.org.
Ref: Health - in Blogs
The World Health Organization is also celebrating the value of nursing by designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. In addition, 2020 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the 19th- century social reformer known as the founder of modern nursing.
The demand for nurses, and therefore for nurse educators, is likely to remain high, according to the National League for Nursing (NLN), as nurse educators are on the front lines teaching new nurses who are filling the shortages in hospitals and other health care settings.
Nurse educators will likely continue to be well paid. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate the median salary for nurse educators at $73,490. They may work in academic settings, but some expand their focus to teaching in schools, businesses, hospitals, and community agencies.
The NLN shares some key advantages to becoming a nurse educator:
- Intellectual stimulation. Nurse educators know the latest research in the field, and have the ability to share it with others.
- Flexibility. Nurse education allows for more autonomy and a flexible schedule. Not to mention that technology allows educators to teach from anywhere in the world, at any time, from the beach to the ski slopes.
- Research. Nurse educators have opportunities for research and publication in scholarly journals to advance the field of nursing and their own careers.
- Meaning. The desire for a purpose-driven life steers many people to the nurse education field, where they can make a significant difference in a variety of ways.
- Fulfillment. Nurse educators rejoice in encouraging young students, and take pride in their accomplishments.
- Impact. Nurse educators, by shaping and developing the next generation of nurses and by working in their communities, will continue to impact the shape of healthcare for future generations.
- Inspiration. Everyone remembers the teacher or teachers who made a difference for them by giving them that extra encouragement, or helping them explore paths they might not have seen.
But quite possibly the number- one reason to become a nurse educator, according to the NLN, is the unique chance to "teach what you love."
Many career tracks exist for potential nurse educators. Teaching requires at least a master's degree in either education or nursing, but these degrees may be earned through a traditional college setting or through the variety of fully accredited programs now available online.
For more information about careers in nursing education, visit NLN.org.
Ref: Health - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - Nurses remain an essential and trusted part of the health care system, and the nation faces an urgent need for nurses due to the COVID-19 outbreak.<br />
<br />
The World Health Organization is also celebrating the value of nursing by designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. In addition, 2020 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the 19th- century social reformer known as the founder of modern nursing.<br />
<br />
The demand for nurses, and therefore for nurse educators, is likely to remain high, according to the National League for Nursing (NLN), as nurse educators are on the front lines teaching new nurses who are filling the shortages in hospitals and other health care settings.<br />
<br />
Nurse educators will likely continue to be well paid. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate the median salary for nurse educators at $73,490. They may work in academic settings, but some expand their focus to teaching in schools, businesses, hospitals, and community agencies.<br />
<br />
The NLN shares some key advantages to becoming a nurse educator:<br />
<br />
- Intellectual stimulation. Nurse educators know the latest research in the field, and have the ability to share it with others.<br />
<br />
- Flexibility. Nurse education allows for more autonomy and a flexible schedule. Not to mention that technology allows educators to teach from anywhere in the world, at any time, from the beach to the ski slopes.<br />
<br />
- Research. Nurse educators have opportunities for research and publication in scholarly journals to advance the field of nursing and their own careers.<br />
<br />
- Meaning. The desire for a purpose-driven life steers many people to the nurse education field, where they can make a significant difference in a variety of ways.<br />
<br />
- Fulfillment. Nurse educators rejoice in encouraging young students, and take pride in their accomplishments.<br />
<br />
- Impact. Nurse educators, by shaping and developing the next generation of nurses and by working in their communities, will continue to impact the shape of healthcare for future generations.<br />
<br />
- Inspiration. Everyone remembers the teacher or teachers who made a difference for them by giving them that extra encouragement, or helping them explore paths they might not have seen.<br />
<br />
But quite possibly the number- one reason to become a nurse educator, according to the NLN, is the unique chance to "teach what you love."<br />
<br />
Many career tracks exist for potential nurse educators. Teaching requires at least a master's degree in either education or nursing, but these degrees may be earned through a traditional college setting or through the variety of fully accredited programs now available online.<br />
<br />
For more information about careers in nursing education, visit NLN.org.<br />
<br />
Ref: Health - in Blogs
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Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - It's no surprise that parents today seek books that will delight, engage, and educate their children. However, some parents are seeing gaps in the available options of topics they want to share with their children. To combat this, there is a growing trend of parents who have taken matters into their own hands and turned to self-publishing to fill these holes themselves.
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) from Amazon is one self-publishing option that offers editorial freedom and ease of use for busy parents looking to create something that meets their kids' needs.
KDP success stories include Handeep Dhoot (who writes as "Dr. Dhoot"), a mom with a Ph.D. in chemistry who wanted to introduce her young daughter to STEM topics.
Dr. Dhoot has self-published the growing Tinker Toddler series of STEM books aimed at young children, including Machine Learning for Babies & Toddlers.
"Becoming a parent helped me realize the urgency for introducing scientific topics, like STEM, to kids while their brains are still developing. KDP allowed me to self-publish books that portray these ideas in an accurate and digestible way for kids, including my own daughter."
Gabi Garcia, a long-time school counselor and mom, turned to self-publishing when she saw a lack of books for Spanish-speaking and bilingual children about how to understand their emotions and feelings.
"It's so important to engage with children early to discuss mindfulness. Self-publishing on KDP empowered me to take all that I'd learned and seen as a school counselor and make it accessible to more children, in both English and Spanish."
She has published several books on these topics through KDP, including Listening to My Body, published in both English and Spanish. She now writes full-time on mindfulness and social awareness topics for children, parents, and educators.
Brendan Kelso struggled with dyslexia as a child, but found learning and performing dramatic monologues helpful. He enjoyed Shakespeare, but, like many young readers, found the text hard to understand.
After a career in engineering, he became a stay-at-home dad and came up with an idea to write versions of Shakespeare's plays that were more accessible to kids. His loveof theater and writing led him to self-publish several works through KDP, starting with Shakespeare's Hamlet for Kids.
"I have the freedom to spend more time with my family, while pursuing my passion on my own terms with KDP."
These parents have been able to create the books they couldn't find for kids and found financial success - and sometimes a whole new career - in the process.
For those parents who are toying with self-publishing, but still have questions, consider this:
* KDP lets authors set their own prices and retain all rights to their work.
* As an author, you can publish your book in minutes, and these books are available to a worldwide audience through Kindle online stores in 24-48 hours.
* You can publish Kindle eBooks and paperbacks in multiple languages.
Visit kdp.amazon.com for more information about Kindle Direct Publishing.
Ref: Encouraging - in Blogs
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) from Amazon is one self-publishing option that offers editorial freedom and ease of use for busy parents looking to create something that meets their kids' needs.
KDP success stories include Handeep Dhoot (who writes as "Dr. Dhoot"), a mom with a Ph.D. in chemistry who wanted to introduce her young daughter to STEM topics.
Dr. Dhoot has self-published the growing Tinker Toddler series of STEM books aimed at young children, including Machine Learning for Babies & Toddlers.
"Becoming a parent helped me realize the urgency for introducing scientific topics, like STEM, to kids while their brains are still developing. KDP allowed me to self-publish books that portray these ideas in an accurate and digestible way for kids, including my own daughter."
Gabi Garcia, a long-time school counselor and mom, turned to self-publishing when she saw a lack of books for Spanish-speaking and bilingual children about how to understand their emotions and feelings.
"It's so important to engage with children early to discuss mindfulness. Self-publishing on KDP empowered me to take all that I'd learned and seen as a school counselor and make it accessible to more children, in both English and Spanish."
She has published several books on these topics through KDP, including Listening to My Body, published in both English and Spanish. She now writes full-time on mindfulness and social awareness topics for children, parents, and educators.
Brendan Kelso struggled with dyslexia as a child, but found learning and performing dramatic monologues helpful. He enjoyed Shakespeare, but, like many young readers, found the text hard to understand.
After a career in engineering, he became a stay-at-home dad and came up with an idea to write versions of Shakespeare's plays that were more accessible to kids. His loveof theater and writing led him to self-publish several works through KDP, starting with Shakespeare's Hamlet for Kids.
"I have the freedom to spend more time with my family, while pursuing my passion on my own terms with KDP."
These parents have been able to create the books they couldn't find for kids and found financial success - and sometimes a whole new career - in the process.
For those parents who are toying with self-publishing, but still have questions, consider this:
* KDP lets authors set their own prices and retain all rights to their work.
* As an author, you can publish your book in minutes, and these books are available to a worldwide audience through Kindle online stores in 24-48 hours.
* You can publish Kindle eBooks and paperbacks in multiple languages.
Visit kdp.amazon.com for more information about Kindle Direct Publishing.
Ref: Encouraging - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - It's no surprise that parents today seek books that will delight, engage, and educate their children. However, some parents are seeing gaps in the available options of topics they want to share with their children. To combat this, there is a growing trend of parents who have taken matters into their own hands and turned to self-publishing to fill these holes themselves.<br />
<br />
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) from Amazon is one self-publishing option that offers editorial freedom and ease of use for busy parents looking to create something that meets their kids' needs.<br />
<br />
KDP success stories include Handeep Dhoot (who writes as "Dr. Dhoot"), a mom with a Ph.D. in chemistry who wanted to introduce her young daughter to STEM topics.<br />
<br />
Dr. Dhoot has self-published the growing Tinker Toddler series of STEM books aimed at young children, including Machine Learning for Babies & Toddlers.<br />
<br />
"Becoming a parent helped me realize the urgency for introducing scientific topics, like STEM, to kids while their brains are still developing. KDP allowed me to self-publish books that portray these ideas in an accurate and digestible way for kids, including my own daughter."<br />
<br />
Gabi Garcia, a long-time school counselor and mom, turned to self-publishing when she saw a lack of books for Spanish-speaking and bilingual children about how to understand their emotions and feelings.<br />
<br />
"It's so important to engage with children early to discuss mindfulness. Self-publishing on KDP empowered me to take all that I'd learned and seen as a school counselor and make it accessible to more children, in both English and Spanish."<br />
<br />
She has published several books on these topics through KDP, including Listening to My Body, published in both English and Spanish. She now writes full-time on mindfulness and social awareness topics for children, parents, and educators.<br />
<br />
Brendan Kelso struggled with dyslexia as a child, but found learning and performing dramatic monologues helpful. He enjoyed Shakespeare, but, like many young readers, found the text hard to understand.<br />
<br />
After a career in engineering, he became a stay-at-home dad and came up with an idea to write versions of Shakespeare's plays that were more accessible to kids. His loveof theater and writing led him to self-publish several works through KDP, starting with Shakespeare's Hamlet for Kids.<br />
<br />
"I have the freedom to spend more time with my family, while pursuing my passion on my own terms with KDP."<br />
<br />
These parents have been able to create the books they couldn't find for kids and found financial success - and sometimes a whole new career - in the process.<br />
<br />
For those parents who are toying with self-publishing, but still have questions, consider this:<br />
<br />
* KDP lets authors set their own prices and retain all rights to their work.<br />
<br />
* As an author, you can publish your book in minutes, and these books are available to a worldwide audience through Kindle online stores in 24-48 hours.<br />
<br />
* You can publish Kindle eBooks and paperbacks in multiple languages.<br />
<br />
Visit kdp.amazon.com for more information about Kindle Direct Publishing.<br />
<br />
Ref: Encouraging - in Blogs
Read more
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