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My favorite Valentine Gift.

(Article) - Intervals Add Spice To Your Workouts

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:33:43 GMT

Well, if you want a workout that can help propel you to the next fitness level, burn more calories, increase your speed, improve your power and more, then it's time to learn more about this effective technique.

A simple definition of Interval Training is: short, high-intensity exercise periods alternated with periods of rest. These higher and lower intensity periods are repeated several times to form a complete workout. Here's a basic example: walk for 5 minutes at 3.5 MPH, walk for 1 minute at 4.2 MPH and then repeat this sequence several times.

Most people spend their workout time only performing continuous training exercises. These are exercises where the intensity level is basically constant throughout. An example of this is walking at 3.5 MPH, at 0% incline for 30 minutes.

Continuous training is very effective and should not be eliminated from your weekly workouts. However, it's recommended that you include both Interval Training and continuous training sessions as part of your fitness regimen.

Why should you include Interval Training? As previously mentioned, there are many benefits to this type of training and execution is relatively simple. Interval Training can help you improve cardiovascular fitness, increase speed, improve overall aerobic power, burn more calories, break-through a plateau, increase workout duration, reach new exercise levels, expand your workout options and increase your workout threshold - just to name a few.

Plus, this training method has useful applications for beginners, intermediate exercisers and even conditioned athletes. There are two basic types of Interval Training. For the majority of exercisers (novices and intermediate) Fitness Interval Training methods are recommended. Athletes can choose a more advanced technique known as Performance Interval Training.

The Fitness training method utilizes periodic increases in intensity. Typically the higher-intensity levels range from 2-5 minutes in duration and are followed by lower-intensity periods that also range from 2-5 minutes. And, a critical element in Fitness Interval Training is determining the appropriate level for the higher-intensity periods. This level should not exceed the anaerobic threshold (which is usually reached below 85% heart rate reserve).

On the flip side, the Performance training technique involves periods of near maximal or even maximal intensity (e.g. >85% heart rate reserve - even reaching 100%). The higher-intensity levels can range from 2-15 minutes in duration and are followed by lower-intensity periods that also can range from 2-15 minutes in duration.

Don't let the two types of training and their ranges confuse you. Incorporating Interval Training methods into your exercise routine is actually quite easy. Since the majority of exercisers fall into either the beginner or intermediate category, we'll focus on getting started with those techniques.

To begin, choose the type of exercise: walking, jogging, swimming, biking, etc. Next determine your lower-intensity level. This is usually somewhere between 50-65% target heart rate. This will be your baseline, lower-level intensity. Then simply increase the intensity-level up to where you feel like you are working hard to very hard, but avoid reaching a level over 85% target heart rate. If monitoring your heart is not feasible, instead use the RPE scale where 1 is basically at rest and 10 is working extremely hard. For example, if you find that when you are exercising at a comfortable level you rank a 5, then bump up to a 7 for the higher-intensity intervals.

You may choose to systematically raise and lower your intensity (e.g. 2 minutes lower intensity followed by 1 minute higher intensity and repeat) or you can alternate more randomly by raising and lowering the level at your discretion. To increase your intensity, you may choose to change the speed, incline, or some other variable.

Interval Training can be especially helpful in situations where you are trying a new form of exercise. For example, this can be very beneficial when first learning to jog. If you attempt to jog continuously without building up to it, you will probably fatigue quickly and even give up. However, if you begin with intervals of walking interspersed with jogging periods, the workout will be much more enjoyable and effective. Also, you will be more likely to stick with the program and achieve the end result - continuous jogging.

Now that you know the benefits of Interval Training and the basic techniques for it, why not give it a try for yourself? Not only will it provide health benefits and improved fitness levels but it is also a great way to avoid workout boredom. Plus, with Interval Training workouts often are more enjoyable, go by quicker, and improvement results come faster. So why not try spicing up a stale, run-of-the-mill workout with Interval options? You may even find yourself excelling in an activity you were skeptical of even trying.

About the Author:

Lynn Bode is a certified personal trainer specializing in Internet-based fitness programs. She founded Workouts For You, which provides affordable online exercise programs that are custom designed for each individual. Visit: http://www.workoutsforyou.com for a free sample workout. Fitness professionals take your business online, visit: http://www.trainerforce.com

Filed In: Fitness and Sports | Fitness | Exercise Routines

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(Article) - Advanced Mortgage Prepayment (Extra Payments) Calculator

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:32:43 GMT

Jorbins.com's Advanced Mortgage Prepayment Calculator compares the effect of two different extra payments to the principal on a mortgage.

First you need to set up the mortgage by entering the mortgage amount, interest rate, and the mortgage term(years). Next enter the amount of the first prepayment as well as the frequency. After you set up your first prepayment just enter a second prepayment amount and frequency for a comparison.

The Mortgage Prepayment Calculator will generate amortization tables for each prepayment highlighting when a prepayment has been made.

The calculator will also generate a table showing the interest saved, number of payments saved, and the number of years/months saved.

Filed In: Home Improvement | Buying And Selling | Mortgage Calculators

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(Article) - Quick Beauty Routines

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:30:40 GMT

I went from fashion model to frump in record time.

Once, image meant everything to me. As a former model and television reporter, I took care of myself and invested in my wardrobe. Now, I take care of kids and the only thing I've invested lately is time.

After my daughter was born, I wore the same thing day and night: leggings and my husband's baggy flannels. My pre-pregnancy clothes didn't fit right. My hair hung in my face.

A strange thing began to happen...before long, I ceased to mind wearing the same clothes every day. What's the point of wearing nice outfits? What's the point of makeup and mousse? I'm not going to leave the house, I told myself. Who is going to see?

The truth is, the most important person in your household sees you each day. You.

Maintaining the beauty routine you enjoyed pre-children can help you remember your distinct identity. I am a professional mom, and I am always more productive when I dress like a professional. I wear makeup not to impress anyone, but to please myself.

Taking care of yourself in the simplest ways can help put the focus back on you. When you take care of yourself, you're a better mom. And since you're the nurturer, it's up to you to nurture yourself.

A Mother's Glow

Clean, healthy skin is the first step in any beauty routine. A system of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing twice each day works well for most everyone, just don't forget that indulgent and soothing mask twice each week. No time to mask? Try a masking cleanser in the shower.

My showers are limited to five to seven minutes, since that is how long my daughter takes to finish a sipper-cup of apple juice (currently, the most effective diversion). Shave a few minutes from your shower with a shampoo-and-conditioner-in-one. I used to balk at the concept-until I stuffed a sample of Pert Plus in my gym bag. That product has come a long way.

Making Up

Next, my daughter gets to play with an empty, capped tube of concealer while I play with my cosmetics. Still, I'm sure you know first-hand about a 10 month-old's attention span. No time to waste.

Spend the most time on your best feature. Start with a cream-to-powder foundation, which covers well without a made-up look. Swipe the sponge across your face once, then go over any spots that need a double coat. Determine your need for an under-eye concealer, which often has a lot to do with the amount of sleep your children afforded you the night before.

A quick dash of the blush brush is next. A good set of makeup brushes make application easier, faster, and more precise.

For eyes, remember that neutral colors require less blending. Take the guesswork out of your routine, too, by using a compact with coordinated cheeks and eye colors. Brush eyeshadow from lashline to crease. Apply a coat of mascara, and you're ready for lips.

Smooth on lip gloss or a neutral shade. Try a shade two or three shades darker than your natural lip color.

(Spend the most time on your best feature. Play it up.) If you like to accentuate your lips, grab a neutral pencil. Always start with a sharp tip for better precision. Trace the "v" in the center of the upper lip. Line to the corners. Now pencil in the bottom lip, blend, and apply lip color.

Nail it

We moms do so much with our hands each day. Well-manicured nails are a great reminder that you take care of yourself. But who has the time for a manicure?

You do. Keep a nail file in your diaper bag or pocketbook and shape your nails during down-time...when you're at a dead stop in traffic or waiting at the doctor's office.

Brush on a coat of fast-drying clear polish before bed. Or, if you like color, indulge in a weekly nail ritual. I use a long-lasting nail enamel in a neutral tone followed by a fast-dry top coat.

A special pampering tip, find the reddest red, and apply it to your toenails. Then go without socks all day.

Susie Michelle Cortright is the author of More Energy for Moms and the publisher of Momscape.com - a website devoted to helping moms enjoy motherhood. Visit her at http://www.momscape.com. And click here to learn how you can join her exclusive community, devoted to personal growth for moms:
http://www.momscape.com/energy

Filed In: Bath and Beauty | Beauty Tips | Misc. Beauty Secrets

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(Article) - Romantic Picnic Ideas

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:27:43 GMT

Who says you need a holiday to add some romance to your life?

Here are some ideas for a picnic. You probably know the drill... food, candles, champagne, beautiful setting. But, how about adding a little twist or element of surprise?

The Fast Food Picnic

Set up a table in your favorite fast food place. Ask the other person to do the ordering. While they are in line, put a table cloth on the table, get out your best dishes and drink glasses, place some paper cut-out hearts or sprinkle rose petal around, and light some candles. It's a fun, inexpensive way to enjoy eachother's company and let everyone around you know how special your person is!

The Living Room Picnic

With a bit of imagination, you'd be amazed how romantic your living room can become. Little touches can add up to a whole lot of atmosphere. Make it into a fantasy world. Pretend you are in the jungle, or on the beach, or up in the mountains... and do whatever you can to make it feel like that. Use candles to make a campfire and roast marshmallows over them. Put glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling and turn out the lights. Listen to mood setting music. Put your feet in tubs of water and go "skinny dipping". Just make sure enough furniture is moved out of the way so you have the space for a tablecloth or blanket. Great for a private party for two!

The Scavenger Hunt Picnic

For this picnic, all you start out with is flowers and candles. You visit the homes of friends and ask if they can give you a small item for your picnic. You might ask for a couple of plastic plates, a piece of fruit, a chuck of cheese, or a few slices of bread, etc. You never know what you might end up with. It makes for an interesting event shared with several people... and ending with an adventure with your loved one!

The Treasure Chest Picnic

This picnic takes a bit of planning beforehand. Before you go on this picnic, you should make or buy a small "treasure chest" and fill it with mementoes of special times together, or reasons why you love them, or some of their favorite treats. You then take the chest to a beach and bury it, clearly marking it in some way so you don't forget where it is. When it's time, you take your loved one there and set the picnic up in an inviting way (including putting candles around the place where you have hidden the chest in the sand). After the meal you tell them about the chest, and ask them to find it somewhere within the candles (another symbol of how they light your fire). By the time they are done reading what you have written or looking through the memories, they will know just how much you treasure them and might be ready for some fire!

As you can see... picnics can be can be a great source of fun & love, without spending a fortune. You can make it as romantic as you desire.

The candlelady's store is temporarily under construction. But visit the candlelady soon.

Filed In: Gifts and Giving | Gift Ideas | Valentine's Day

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My favorite Valentine Gift.

(Article) - Pond Waterfalls

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:25:43 GMT

How to Make a Pond Waterfall

One of the most common mistakes people make when constructing a pond waterfall is not fitting the size of the pond to the dimensions of the garden waterfall. Bigger is not always better. If you are going to have goldfish or Koi fish in your pond the added aeration from the waterfall will be beneficial. Make sure your pond is large enough that they have calm water to swim in as well.

Placement of stones will create many different effects; your water feature can be all falls or no falls at all. When planning your garden waterfall remember to dig your stream and catch basin a little bigger than what you think you want since it will appear smaller once the stones and edging are added.

Use a wide rubber liner under your rock waterfall and if your liner does not have an underlayment be sure and add one to protect the liner from rocks and underground roots.

Waterfall Installation

Be sure and use black waterfall foam when you have placed your rocks and stones where you want them. This way water goes around and over the stones instead of underneath. The foam expands so take care not to use too much.

Waterfall Filters

Place your biological filter at the top of the waterfall so it filters your water before it cascades over your rocks.

Waterfall Pumps

When purchasing a waterfall pump be sure and ask questions and do your homework. Waterfall pumps come in all sizes and you want to make sure you purchase the correct size for your water pond. Roughly figure 300 gallons per hour is required for a 6-inch wide waterfall.

Waterfall Kits and Waterfall Units

If you want to purchase a waterfall kit there are three basic types of preformed waterfall units.

Plastic - The most inexpensive type of preformed waterfall as well as the most frequently used in new and smaller ponds.

Fiberglass - Easy to install and used mainly for medium sized ponds.

Pre-cast stone - If you have a large pond this can be used to make spectacular cascading falls and endless meandering streams.

Waterfall Landscaping

Water lilies like quiet waters and do not do very well around fountains and waterfalls because of the splashing and water flow. An alternative would be pond lilies which are comparable to water lilies but tolerate moving water and some shade. Another aquatic plant to consider would be the water hawthorn it has smaller foliage but a longer flowering season than the water lily. It also has beautiful vanilla scented blossoms.

Be sure and include aquatic plants at the top of your waterfall as well as around any streams you may be incorporating into it.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Pond Fountains

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:24:19 GMT

Fountains can be used as a focal point for any garden, but are usually associated with a formal water garden because of the way they look and sound. But there are so many types available now you can find an outdoor fountain to fit the character of almost every garden pond.

You can choose from floating fountains, solar fountains, and of course ornamental fountains. Different fountain heads and fountain nozzles create a variety of fountain sprays and spray patterns as well.

Fountains made of polyresin are a good choice for pond owners. They are more affordable and lighter than carved stone fountains and will not crack like molded plastic fountains.

Check the fountain pump to see that it can pump at least five gallons per minute of water, any less than that and you may be disappointed in the water feature's visual effect.

Depending on the size of your water garden you may have to choose between fish and plants or a fountain. If your pond is large enough a fountain's aeration will help oxygenate the water which will be beneficial to Koi or goldfish.

If you are going for a simple water garden without fish or plants you can use chlorine bleach to keep the water crystal clear. Add 2 ounces of bleach for every 10 gallons of water each month.

Ultrasonic foggers, light kits, and colored fountain lights will add a finishing touch to your newly installed outdoor water fountain.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Pond Liners and Pond Underlay

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:19:52 GMT

Pond Liners

The first thing you need to do before you start constructing your pond is too pick out a pond liner. You want to purchase the best liner you can afford. The better quality of pond liner you have the less likely you are to have problems concerning the liner.

It is also better to have too much liner than too little, be generous when figuring out what size of liner you will need!! When you are sizing your liner you will need to figure in a 2 foot overlap around the whole pond. This will assure you have enough liner to have an overlap and will give you a little wiggle room in case things shift a bit when filling your pond.

Too figure the actual size of pond liner you will need.

Length, take the length of your pond and add double the depth and 4 foot to it (the overlap).

Width, take the width of your pond and add double the depth and 4 foot to it (the overlap).

Be sure and take into consideration your climate and whether or not you want fish or not when deciding how deep you want your pond. If you are going to keep fish or even plants in it year round you may need to dig a little deeper.

Choosing a brand or type of liner.

Take your time look at your options and needs. A little homework in this part of your pond planning can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration later!! There is a large variety of liner types available from 45 mil EPDM, to polyethylene pond liners, to PVC pond liners.

Some brands to include in your research are Firestone PondGard EPDM, Butyl Rubber Liners, Royal Liners, GeoCHEM liners, and RTC PondGrade EPDM. Be sure NOT to use roofing EPDM, there are chemicals in it that can and will kill your fish and plants.

Pond Liner Underlay

Okay, you have just picked out the best liner you feel you can afford and now you want to assure yourself that it lasts as long as possible. To do that you need to put down an underlayment to place your liner on. This will make it more puncture resistant and it will also stabilize the liner and keep it from stretching too much. You can, and a lot of people do, use sand, old carpet, or newspaper for this. But these underlayments can settle, and a lot of pond underlay is cheaper than sand and has the added benefit that it will not slowly rot the liner.

Choosing a brand or type of underlay.

Again do your research and ask around. Find out what people are using and if they are having or have had any problems. Some brands to consider in your research would be Firestone, Geo-Pad, Blagdon, Aquashield, and Aquatex.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Aquatic Plants for Your Garden Pond

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:12:47 GMT

Water Lilies

The water lily, by far, is the most popular aquatic plant used in water gardening projects. These deep-water plants have roots and stems in the soil below the water, while their foliage floats on the water.

There are both hardy water lilies and tropical water lilies. The hardy types have leaves with smooth edges and the tropical types come in a larger variety of colors and are more fragrant. Unlike the hardy water lily that blooms during the day some tropical water lilies bloom in the evening.

When choosing aquatic plants for your garden make sure that any water lilies you purchase are potted and not floating in water.

Here are a few water lily types you can consider for your water garden:

Barbara Dobbins
Colorado
Almost Black
Gladstone
Joanna Pring
Rosea Laydekeri
Itelvola

Floating plants

Floating aquatic plants provide essential shade in your water pond. Shade from floating plants reduces algae, especially single celled algae that produce "green pea soup" or "green water". They also allow submerged plants to continue growing and starve suspended algae.

Not only does this type of aquatic plant provide a place for pond life to hide but they are also excellent at preventing blanket weed.

Floating plants are easy to grow and fairly inexpensive, many water gardeners consider these aquatic plants as annuals instead of perennials because of this.

Some floating plants to consider in your water garden:

Fairy Moss
Water Hyacinth
Water Fern
Frogbit
Water Lettuce
Salvina
Water Chestnut

Submerged Plants / Oxygenating Plants

Submerged plants, also called oxygenating plants, are a vital part of your water pond. Besides the beautiful foliage that many can also can provide oxygen during the daylight hours and remove it at night. They will compete with algae by consuming nutrients from your pond as well.

Pond life will hide, feed, and reproduce among your submerged and oxygenating plants.

Some types to consider:

Water Violet
Water Crowfoot
Eel Grass
Water Buttercup
Foxtail
Willow Moss
Fanwort
Hornwort
Bladderwort

Bog Plants / Marginal Plants

Marginal plants, also referred to as bog plants or shallow water plants, provide beauty, height, and texture to your backyard pond. They can be used to disguise the edge of the pond and they can add longer periods of color to your water garden. Bog plants traditionally like continually moist soil but do not like to be submerged in water, while marginal plants vary where they do best, usually from between 2 and 12 inches of water. Vary the aquatic plant types you put into containers to add to the uniqueness and beauty of your garden pond.

There are many bog and marginal plants to be considered in your water garden. Here are a few:

Marsh Marigolds
Scrambling Brockline
Sweet Flag
Water Plantain
Cattails
Saggittaria
Hibiscus
Rushes
Reeds
Water Clover
Parrots Feather
Pickeral Reed
Lotus

Water Lotuses

The water lotus is a very popular bog / marginal plant. Remember most love hot weather and require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Water lotus come in a large variety of colors, sizes, and fragrances. The Asian Lotus as compared the American Native Lotus has gone through a lot of hybridization that gives such variety to this aquatic plant.

Wetland Gardens

If you are not going to introduce goldfish or Koi fish to your water garden you may consider constructing a wetland pond. You will attract many wild birds, butterflies, bees, dragonflies, tadpoles, and turtles. The wetland garden pond is a beautiful alternative to a fish pond if you choose to go this route.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Barley Straw: Natural Algae Control Treatment

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:02:16 GMT

Barley straw is just one of the many treatments for controlling algae in your pond. It is natural and does not have any known toxic effects on aquatic plants, insect larvae, or fish.

When barley straw is added to your pond water it will begin the decomposition process. As it decomposes special chemicals are released. These chemicals have been found to reduce the amount of new algae growth and occurrences of algae blooms.

The downside to barley straw is the fact that the chemicals it produces is virtually ineffective for reducing EXISTING algae. This is why barley straw is used as a PREVENTIVE algae control treatment.

To successfully treat your garden pond it will take about one bundle of barley straw for every 1000 gallons of water.

To apply the barley straw spread the bales apart and put them in onion sacks or Christmas tree netting. Anchor them so they float in the upper 3 feet of your water pond where they can get sufficient sunlight.

Since barley straw will consume oxygen in your pond water. It is best to place them near or directly under waterfalls or fountains where there is sufficient water movement to keep oxygen around the barley straw. This will also help distribute the chemicals produced as decomposition occurs.

Barley straw should help control algae for 4 to 6 months once it is producing sufficient amount of chemicals. However, it will depend on water temperature how long it will take to reach this amount. Water temperature below 50 degrees will take about 2 months and if the water is over 70 degrees it should not take longer than 2 weeks.

Keep in mind that you will need to maintain a continuous treatment when using barley straw. Usually you will need to replace used bales after about 5-6 months (or as directed by manufacturer).

If you do not want the mess and maintenance of using barley straw bales an alternative can be Savio Natural Barley Extract. This extract is a liquid that is added to your pond water. It is cost effective, lasts longer, requires less maintenance, and is plant and fish safe.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Algae Control: How To Control Algae In Your Pond and Water Garden

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:00:14 GMT

About Pond Algae

Learning about algae and the various algae control treatments is necessary when maintaining a water garden or Koi pond. If algae control treatments are not used, an algae bloom can turn your once beautiful pond into a living nightmare. Your pond may end up having murky green water, blankets of green muck on the water surface, or strings of algae in your streams and waterfalls.

Algae can be found in virtually any backyard garden pond. It can either be beneficial or harmful depending on the type and the excessiveness of the algae.

One of the benefits of algae is that it helps remove excess nutrients that build up in your pond water over time. This excess of nutrients can be unhealthy for plants, fish, and other aquatic life.

The downfall of algae is when control is not being used. What can happen in an uncontrolled pond is an excessive and rapid growth of algae called an algae bloom. These blooms can harm aquatic life by competing for resources as well as destroy the water quality and beauty of a backyard pond. Certain varieties of pond algae, such as blue-green algae, can even be toxic to animals and humans.

The purpose of controlling algae is not to eliminate all algae but to maintain a beneficial balance of "good" algae so that it works for your pond rather than against your pond. There are various algae control treatments and methods you can use to accomplish this. Some control methods include:

Barley straw
UV sterilizers
Algaecides
Dyes
Bacterial and enzyme treatments
Skimmers and biological filters
Natural methods - Plants and algae eaters

Before we discuss these treatments and methods you need to know a little more about the types of algae and the conditions for algae growth. By knowing these you stand a better chance at choosing the best treatment for controlling algae growth and blooms in your pond.

Types of Pond Algae

There are many varieties of algae that you may find in your pond. The most common types of pond algae are filamentous and planktonic.

Planktonic Algae

Green algae - green water - blue-green algae - green pea soup

Tiny microscopic single celled algae suspended a few feet below the surface of the water where sunlight is still available for photosynthesis. Garden ponds will typically have murky green water or blue-green water if this type of algae is present.

Filamentous Algae

String algae - hair algae - blanket algae

Typically referred to as pond scum, pond moss, string algae, and blanket algae. This filamentous algae bond with other filamentous algae creating strings and lime-green mats floating on the surface of a pond. You can also find it growing in pond waterfalls, shallow streams, and attached to rocks and/or the sides of ponds where sunlight is present.

Conditions For Algae Growth and Blooms

Water Nutrients

Most algae obtain nutrients from the actual pond water not "pond soil". Excessive levels of algae occur when nutrients, especially phosphorus and nitrogen, are at high levels in your pond. These nutrients are typically cause by decomposing materials left in the pond. Dead algae, plants, leaves, and also pond sludge are a few examples of these decomposing materials. Excessive nutrients can also be produced by excessive fish waste (usually caused by overstocking of fish) and uneaten fish food. Beneficial bacteria break down the ammonia in fish waste and as a byproduct phosphorus and nitrates are produced.

Sunlight

For most plant life sunlight is required for photosynthesis. Most algae must stay toward the surface of the pond, waterfalls, shallows, and streams where it can get sufficient sunlight.

Water Temperature

Usually warmer water temperatures tend to support algae growth. Many times it is hard to control the temperature of the water because it naturally fluctuates day to day and between seasons. If you have fish and aquatic plants you will have to be able maintain a certain water temperature zone. The sad news is the water temperature that is needed to support most other aquatic life usually will be in "the zone" for algae.

The foundation of algae control is to reduce the amount of algae in your garden pond by killing it or by removing one or more conditions that promote algae growth. By removing any one of the conditions you effectively reduce the amount of current pond algae, algae blooms, and also PREVENT new algae growth.

How to Control Algae in Your Pond: Treatments and Methods

Below are the most common treatments and methods for controlling algae. Keep in mind that each treatment or method can have upsides and downsides and may not work very well to control all types of algae. Worse yet, some may not work well with Koi fish, plants, or other aquatic life.

Barley Straw

Barley straw is an excellent way to inhibit the growth of algae. Barley straw is cost effective, easy to use, and does not have any known toxic effects on aquatic plants or fish. More about barley straw.

Ultraviolet Sterilizers

Ultraviolet sterilizers are very important for controlling algae and keeping your pond balanced especially if you have fish in your pond. UV sterilizers are sometimes referred to as clarifiers and are an important water treatment for killing free-floating bacteria, suspended algae (planktonic algae and green water), fungi, mold spores, viruses, and other parasites. The downside to UV sterilizers is that the algae must pass in front of the light so any attached algae will not be killed.

It is EXTREMELY important to use the right size of ultraviolet sterilizer for your pond size and water flow. Also keep in mind that all UV sterilizers are not created equal and some water UV clarifiers will only keep the water clear for the top foot or so. You should also wait a month or two before adding an ultraviolet sterilizer to a new pond.

Skimmers and Biological Filters

Skimmers - If your pond is not too large, a skimmer can help trap and filter debris from your pond water. Such debris when left in your pond will start to decompose which creates nutrients for pond algae. Although skimmers aren't the best method for controlling algae, they can provide a tiny bit of assistance. Skimmers must also be cleaned out regularly so water can pass through.

Biological filters - If you maintain a Koi pond you will probably have a biological filter. Most biological filters do nothing for controlling algae. These filters contain beneficial bacteria that break down toxic ammonia from fish waste. The reason we mention these filters is that they produce nitrates (aquatic plant food and algae food) during the process of breaking down ammonia. So you must remove the nitrates by partial water changes or by having enough plant life to consume the nitrates.

Chemical Treatments (algaecides) and Water Treatments

Algaecides - It is recommended that you avoid chemical treatments such as algaecides. Just know that algaecides may have adverse effects and may harm plants, fish, and other aquatic life. Many of them can be harmful to the environment as well. Algaecides work temporarily and when algaecides "wear off" another algae bloom (usually worse) is sure to happen.

Dyes - Dyes are water treatments that shade the water. The shading cuts off vital sunlight algae must have for photosynthesis.

Bacterial and Enzyme Water Treatments - These are probably the most popular type of water treatments and water clarifiers available. There are also a wide variety of bacterial and enzyme treatments that can control combinations of water pH, sludge, and to remove ammonia and excess nitrates. Many control algae very well and are safe for fish, aquatic plants, and the also the environment. You can also find treatments, such as GreenEx, that specifically help control filamentous algae (string algae).

Natural Controls

Plants - Adding plants to your pond is a great natural way to help control algae. Aquatic plants can control algae by consuming nutrients needed for algae growth. They can also help shade the water therefore removing the required sunlight algae need for photosynthesis. Overhanging "dry land" plants can also help to shade the water. Be sure to keep any dead foliage out of your pond as decomposing material can add nutrients to the water. 45%-70% shading is recommended if you are trying to control algae by shade alone.

Some aquatic plants to look into are the water lily, water lettuce, water hyacinth, snowflake, yellow flag iris, cattails, and duckweed. Be careful with the duckweed since it could take over your pond if you are not careful.

Algae Eating Fish - It may not hurt to have one of these guys running around in your pond. They help "clean" your pond simply by eating the algae growing on the bottom and sides of the pond. Tadpoles and snails are also help if you want an alternative.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - Pond Care, Maintenance, and Winterizing

Jorbins.com — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:54:36 GMT

In order to keep your garden pond healthy you need to clean and maintain it continuously. The equipment you use to maintain your pond depends on your pond's size, your climate, your aquatic plant types, and the amount of gold fish or Koi it contains.

Supply List

Below is a list of some of the most popular equipment and pond supplies used to maintain a healthy garden pond. Keep in mind that some of the items are optional and will depend on the aquatic life your pond supports as well as environmental conditions:

Pond pumps - waterfall pumps -fountain pumps
Pond filters - biological filters
Fountains
Waterfalls
De-icers
Heaters
Skimmers
Ultra Violet Sterilizers
Biological Clarifiers
Water Treatments
Thermometer
Pond Vacuum
Aerators
Pond liners
Dechlorinators
Barley Straw
Pond Dye

There are also things you will do each season to assure yourself a healthy water garden.

Spring Maintenance

Do a partial water change (be sure and use a dechlorinator if your tap water contains chlorine).
Add barley straw.
Add pond salt if you have fish. You do this to make sure your fish have a healthy coat of slime so they can fight of parasites and bacterial infections.
Rearrange any aquatic plants back on pond shelves.
Divide and replant plants.
Get your U.V. sterilizer going.
Fertilize your water lilies.
Clean out leaves. dead plants, and debris.
Finalize any improvement plans or additions to your backyard pond.
Feed fish small amounts in the morning (what based fish food) when the water gets to 50 degrees.
Add a general parasite treatment for fish but avoid a bacterial treatment unless you see problems with your fish.
Add artificial cover (shade) or more floating plants for fish if your weather is consisting of bright sunshiny days and your plants aren't providing enough cover yet.
Green water is common and an algae bloom is normal in the spring for a fish pond. The algae bloom will help to protect the fish until plants begin to grow and take over more of the algae.

Summer Maintenance

Make planned improvements, add fountains, waterfalls, marginal plants, and be sure and check your water flow.
Run aerators, water fountains, and waterfalls at maximum levels, especially after the sun goes down to keep oxygen levels high in your pond. This is especially important if fish are living in your pond.
Control algae growth and beneficial bacteria.
Feed fish several small amounts of high protein food per day rather than one large feeding, remove any uneaten food immediately, floating fish food works best for this.
Small frequent water changes may help to increase oxygen levels (again use a dechlorinator is your tap water contains chlorine).
Add fertilizer tablets to ensure healthy plants, watch for deformed or discolored leaves and lack of flower blooms.

Fall Maintenance

Clean up leaves so they don't build up on the bottom of your pond and cause problems. If you get to much debris and sludge you may have to completely drain your pond. Too much decaying vegetation will cause major algae as well as lower oxygen levels.
Prune, thin, and reshape any plants as needed.
If water is above 60 degrees feed your plants some extra nutrients.
Before it gets to cold or freezes bring indoors any plants that do not stay in the pond year around. The same with any goldfish or Koi.
Reposition any plants that may need to be moved to deeper water.

Winter Maintenance / Winterizing

Consider adding mesh or netting over your pond to keep out the debris.
If water temperature gets below 40 degrees lift your pumps and aerators (which need to run year round if this is your winter climate) at least 12 inches from the bottom of your pond.
Test your water for phosphate levers as well as oxygen levers.
Cleaning the bottom of your pond, pruning plants, skimming, vacuuming, and netting now if you have not already done so will make your pond healthier and ready to go in the spring.
Maintain any equipment and check for problems. Clean skimmers, filters, and pumps. Replace or clean your media.
Do partial water changes up to 1/2 of the ponds water. If still murky do another in a few days. Again use a dechlorinator if you have chlorine in your tap water.
As water temperatures drop below 70 degrees slow down on the amount your feeding your fish. Below 60 degrees feed your fish only wheat germ based foods and do this less frequently. Below 50 degrees stop feeding your fish for the winter.
Install a de-icer to ensure your pond does not freeze over and is still getting oxygen if your climate requires it.
If your pond freezes over in the winter but you have pond lighting underneath the ice (which is awesome), make sure it is all working properly before the pond freezes!

And for all seasons; enjoy the serenity, beauty, and peacefulness your water garden brings to your backyard landscaping.

Filed In: Gardening and Landscaping | Specialty Gardens | Water Gardens And Ponds

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(Article) - 12 Steps To Make Your New Year Resolution Stick

Jorbins.com — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 14:19:06 GMT

It's a new year again. Do you have a New Year's Resolution? Well, if you're like most Americans (88 percent according to a GNC poll), you have at least one resolution. And, if you are like the majority of these promise-makers, your resolution is probably related to health and fitness. According to GNC, 55 percent promised to eat healthier, 50 percent resolved to exercise more, and 38 percent wanted to lose weight.

While resolutions are well-intentioned, unfortunately most people fail at keeping them. With all the hype surrounding these promises, it's easy to get caught up in it without really taking them seriously.

It's no wonder then, that more than 75 percent of Americans would prefer to never make a resolution again (according to the Whole Foods Market New Year's reSOLUTIONS survey).

We live in a throw-away society and even our resolutions are not immune. However, especially for promises that include improving our health, it's in our best interest not to take them lightly.

So, what's the secret to successful resolutions? One important component is help from others. Support from others is important for lasting change, according to the survey which found that 70 percent of the respondents would be more likely to make positive changes if they did so with someone else.

And while you can't wave a magic wand and make your resolution come true, there are some easy steps to take that will make it easier to fulfill your promise to yourself.

Choose an obtainable goal. Resolving to look like a super model is not realistic for the majority of us, but promising to include daily physical activity in our lives is very possible.
Avoid choosing a resolution that you've been unsuccessful at achieving year after year. This will only set you up for failure, frustration and disappointment. If you are still tempted to make a promise that you've made before, then try altering it. For example, instead of stating that you are going to lose 30 pounds, try promising to eat healthier and increase your weekly exercise.
Create a game plan. At the beginning of January, write a comprehensive plan. All successful businesses start with a business plan that describes their mission and specifics on how they will achieve it. Write your own personal plan and you'll be more likely to succeed as well.
Break it down and make it less intimidating. Rather than one BIG end goal, dissect it into smaller pieces. Set several smaller goals to achieve throughout the year that will help you to reach the ultimate goal. Then, even if you aren't able to reach your final goal, you will have many smaller, but still significant, achievements along the way. For example, if your goal is to complete a 10K race, your smaller goals could be running a 5K in less than 30 minutes, adding upper and lower body strength training to increase your muscular endurance, and running 2 miles with a personal best completion time.
Make Contingency Options: Don't assume sticking to your plan will be smooth sailing. Plan on hitting bumps along the resolution road and be prepared with specific ways to overcome them. What will keep you from skipping your workout or stop you from having a cigarette? This may mean seeking help from family or a professional, writing in a journal, etc.
Give It Time: Most experts agree that it takes about 21 days to create a habit and six months for it to actually become a part of your daily life.
Reward yourself with each milestone. If you've stuck with your resolution for 2 months, treat yourself to something special. But, be careful of your reward type. If you've lost 5 pounds, don't give yourself a piece of cake as an award. Instead, treat yourself to something non-food related, like a professional massage.
Ask friends and family members to help you so you have someone to be accountable to. Just be sure to set limits so that this doesn't backfire and become more irritating than helpful. For example, if you resolve to be more positive ask them to gently remind you when you start talking negatively.
Don't go it alone! Get professional assistance. Everyone needs help and sometimes a friend just isn't enough. Sometimes you need the help of a trained professional. Don't feel that seeking help is a way of copping out. Especially when it comes to fitness, research studies have shown that assistance from a fitness professional greatly improves people's success rate.
Limit your number of promises. You'll spread yourself too thin trying to make multiple changes in your life. This will just lead to failure of all of the resolutions.
Test Your Flexibility: Realize that things change frequently. Your goals and needs may be very different in April then they were when you made your resolution in January. Embrace change, even if that means that your resolution is altered.
Keep A Journal: A journal helps you recognize your positive steps and makes it harder to go back to the same old habits.

On average only about 20% of us keep our New Year's resolutions. Unfortunately, some of the biggest failures are found in fitness resolutions. But don't let the statistics get you down. By following the tips above you'll be better equipped to fall into the successful 20% category.

About the author: Lynn Bode is a certified personal trainer specializing in Internet-based fitness programs. Her company, WorkoutsForYou.com, can help you achieve your fitness and weight loss new year resolutions. Visit: http://www.workoutsforyou.com for tips, sample workouts and more. Fitness professionals, learn how to support your clients online, visit: http://www.trainerforce.com

Filed In: Self Improvement | Goal Setting | Goal Setting Tips & Help

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(Article) - What I Think Of The New Windows I Just Had Installed In My Home

Jorbins.com — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 14:10:52 GMT

This fall I had three of my many windows replaced in my small home. I live in an older house and it has a lot of windows but I needed to start somewhere.

I had been wanting to do this for some time but the cost was a big factor. I had even went through the process of letting the telemarketers that call come out an give me a quote on what their "bargain" windows would cost. Dang, I could buy a new house for what they wanted to replace all my windows. Plus they aren't local and what would I do if I had a problem. I had a local contractor give me a quote and it wasn't much better.

I had mentioned that I wanted to replace my windows to a friend of mine and three were so drafty that they needed to be replaced before winter. She told me she had a friend that did this type of work and had done work on her house so she put me in touch with him.

I talked to him for awhile, he took measurements, got me quotes and I went for it. B.J did a super job, and even wrapped the windows so that they are maintenance free. The cost for the three windows was less than what others had contracted to do one for. Plus he didn't turn his nose down at only doing three at a time, where everyone else didn't seem to want to be bothered unless they could do the whole house. Which if you count the 10 on my front porch has 22 windows.

It is nice to be able to easily open my windows, not have to put up separate storm windows, and best of all I don't have a huge draft coming in my computer area. I could actually lower my thermostat this year so I will be saving money on my heating bills.

So if any of you readers are thinking of having your windows replaced shop around and talk to your friends and family and maybe you can find someone like I did that does good quality work at a fair price. You will want to take the recommendation of friends that have actually had work done by the person, just because someone has done a good job doing their own home maintenance projects doesn't mean they will take that same care when they are working on someone else's home!

Filed In: Home Improvement | Home Exteriors and Home Maintenance | Windows And Shutters

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