I am St. Lucian. I love saying that with passion and pride in my heart. I am also a university student majoring in Environmental Science. The reason why I chose such a major is because I want to make a valuable contribution to my country, to make it a better place.
There are no recycling facilities in my country, as far as I know. To me, if such facilities are not present we should be practicing precycling. According to the Wikipedia, precycling is the practice of reducing waste by attempting to avoid bringing into the home or business items which will generate waste. I think there are a number of things that we St. Lucians can do to reduce the amount of waste we send to our landfill, there by helping our beautiful island even more.
Maybe after I graduate I will create an education programme to go into schools and promote such environmentally friendly lifestyles. Anyway, here are a few ways in which we can be precycle and be more environmentally friendly:
*Bring your own bag to the supermarket, market, butcher, wherever. There are sizable reusable bags available, and you can always make your own also.
*I don't see much of this in St. Lucia, but I strongly believe it would be a great investment - metal water bottles to stop the use of plastic bottles. Justifiably one may argue that water bottle filling stations would be needed, and that is true, but it might get more business places to have those available to customers and to their own staff too.
*Give up paper towels. I know it's "convenient" to not have to wash your kitchen towels, but seriously, you don't dry yourself after a bath with paper towels, it won't kill you to designate towels for certain areas. Towels for spills on counters and tables, for spills on the floor, for your car, etc.
*Buy things you can use again in different capacities. For example, if you sew, buy mayo in a glass bottle so that when it's done you wash it out and put your thread, or buttons or something of that sort in there. Before you buy think about how you can reuse the item again before throwing it out or without ever having to throw it out.
*Encourage your utility providers to go paperless. Many people have access to computers and have email addresses. Why do business places not think of saving themselves money and going paperless. Have online services so that you can email bills to customers?
These are just a few ideas I have as to ways in which we can help St. Lucia produce less waste and possibly be more productive.
Friday, August 6, 2010
"All Men Are Dogs"
I'm sick and tired of hearing women say "all men are dogs." I'm sorry, not all men are dogs. My man isn't a dog, my father isn't a dog, my brothers aren't dogs and surely my son(s) [if I ever have any] will not be a dog.
Many of us women have sons, nephews or godsons. It's up to us to socialise these young males to become "real men." It is our responsibility to evoke the change we wish to see in the world. So, teach them to cook so they can cook for their girlfriend, teach them to walk on the side of the street closer to traffic, teach to be that gentleman you as a woman desire. Don't hestitate to let him know about menstration, sanitary napkins, and other feminine products, and why knowing about them is beneficial. Sensitize them to women's emotions and cycles. Mold them into "real men."
Another thing is that we women encourage and support men to do stupidness, to act and bcome "dogs." Women, HAVE STANDARDS!! Some fool will tell you "you too picky"...it's not true. It means that you know what you want and expect from a man and are not ready to compromise and settle for substandard or mediocry. This will result in rejection for the "dogs" and hopefully introspection and then change. Don't make it easy for them ladies. Make them work to get you and what you want them to be.
Now, I have to add this little piece here for great men like mine. Ladies, don't just demand demand demand or take take take. No no no. You have got to give in return. Don't nag him or chastize him if he doesn't do things to your liking. Be thankful for what he does and understand that you ought to give him a little tlc or return the favour(s) as best as possible. Don't suck them dry. It's a give and give relationship...not give and take. Why I say this is because the more both of you give and not worry about who's taking the more there is to give.
Give love to yourself first and then you can give love to others.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
CV vs. Resume
For many years now I've wondered if there actually was a difference between a curriculum vitae and a resume or if the words could be used interchangably. To my surprise, there is quite a bit of a difference and that difference in my eyes may mean the difference between getting the interview or not.
The curriculum vitae is longer than a resume and includes a complete listing of a person's professional history. A CV should include, every position that a person has ever held, a comprehensive list of academic credentials, as well as information on publications and other significant achievements. In some cases, CVs are many pages long.
A resume on the other hand is usually one page long and is geared specifically to showcase the necessary skills and qualifications needed for a particular job.
In general, CVs are required when applying for positions in the medical and academic field. Resumes, on the other hand, are preferred when applying for business positions.
I hope this information helps you to decide which to do when applying for a job.
The curriculum vitae is longer than a resume and includes a complete listing of a person's professional history. A CV should include, every position that a person has ever held, a comprehensive list of academic credentials, as well as information on publications and other significant achievements. In some cases, CVs are many pages long.
A resume on the other hand is usually one page long and is geared specifically to showcase the necessary skills and qualifications needed for a particular job.
In general, CVs are required when applying for positions in the medical and academic field. Resumes, on the other hand, are preferred when applying for business positions.
I hope this information helps you to decide which to do when applying for a job.
Tips On Starting a Small Business
I'm just doing a lot of research for changes I hope to effect in my life this coming academic year. I am an Avon representative and I must say I have not been doing a really good job at that. I have not been handling it as a business. So in order for me to take control of my financial situation, I am going to treat it as a business and try to mae the best out it. I have sourced 10 tips that are suppose to help me take this thing from the ground up. Here they are, taken from about.com
1) Do what you love. You're going to devote a lot of time and energy to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise, so it's really important that you truly deeply enjoy what you do, whether it be running fishing charters, creating pottery or providing financial advice.
2) Start your business while you're still employed. How long can most people live without money? Not long. And it may be a long time before your new business actually makes any profits. Being employed while you're starting a business means money in your pocket while you're going through the starting a business process.
3) Don't do it alone. You need a support system while you're starting a business (and afterwards). A family member or friend that you can bounce ideas off and who will listen sympathetically to the latest business start up crisis is invaluable. Even better, find a mentor or, if you qualify, apply for a business start up program such as The Self-Employment Program. When you're starting a business experienced guidance is the best support sytem of all.
4) Get clients or customers first. Don't wait until you've offically started your business to line these up, because your business can't survive without them. Do the networking. Make the contacts. Sell or even give away your products or services. You can't start marketing too soon.
5) Write a business plan. The main reason for doing a business plan first when you're thinking of starting a business is that it can help you avoid sinking your time and money into starting a business that will not succeed. Remember, you don't have to work through a full scale business plan for each new business idea you come up with; my Quick-Start Business Plan, for instance, will let you test the potential of your business idea much more quickly.
6) Do the research. You'll do a lot of research writing a business plan, but that's just a start. When you're starting a business, you need to become an expert on your industry, products and services, if you're not already. Joining related industry or professional associations before you start your business is a great idea.
7) Get professional help. On the other hand, just because you're starting a business, doesn't mean you have to be an expert on everything. If you're not an accountant or bookkeeper, hire one (or both). If you need to write up a contract, and you're not a lawyer, hire one. You will waste more time and possibly money in the long run trying to do things yourself that you are not qualifed to do.
8) Get the money lined up. Save up if you have to. Approach potential investors and lenders. Figure our your financial fall-back plan. Don't expect to start a business and then walk into a bank and get money. Traditional lenders don't like new ideas and don't like businesses without proven track records.
9) Be professional from the get-go. Everything about you and the way you do business needs to let people know that you are a professional running a serious business. That means getting all the accoutrements such as professional business cards, a business phone and a business email address, and treating people in a professional, courteous manner.
10) Get the legal and tax issues right the first time. It's much more difficult and expensive to unsnarl a mess afterwards. Does your business need to be registered? Will you have to charge GST or PST? Will you have to have Workers' Compensation Insurance or deal with payroll taxes? How will the form of business you choose affect your income tax situation? Learn what your legal and tax responsibilities are before you start your business and operate accordingly.
Following the advice on starting a business above will make starting a business both a smoother, less stressful process and go a long way towards ensuring the busines you start lasts and thrives.
Let's hope I can follow these and reap the rewards
1) Do what you love. You're going to devote a lot of time and energy to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise, so it's really important that you truly deeply enjoy what you do, whether it be running fishing charters, creating pottery or providing financial advice.
2) Start your business while you're still employed. How long can most people live without money? Not long. And it may be a long time before your new business actually makes any profits. Being employed while you're starting a business means money in your pocket while you're going through the starting a business process.
3) Don't do it alone. You need a support system while you're starting a business (and afterwards). A family member or friend that you can bounce ideas off and who will listen sympathetically to the latest business start up crisis is invaluable. Even better, find a mentor or, if you qualify, apply for a business start up program such as The Self-Employment Program. When you're starting a business experienced guidance is the best support sytem of all.
4) Get clients or customers first. Don't wait until you've offically started your business to line these up, because your business can't survive without them. Do the networking. Make the contacts. Sell or even give away your products or services. You can't start marketing too soon.
5) Write a business plan. The main reason for doing a business plan first when you're thinking of starting a business is that it can help you avoid sinking your time and money into starting a business that will not succeed. Remember, you don't have to work through a full scale business plan for each new business idea you come up with; my Quick-Start Business Plan, for instance, will let you test the potential of your business idea much more quickly.
6) Do the research. You'll do a lot of research writing a business plan, but that's just a start. When you're starting a business, you need to become an expert on your industry, products and services, if you're not already. Joining related industry or professional associations before you start your business is a great idea.
7) Get professional help. On the other hand, just because you're starting a business, doesn't mean you have to be an expert on everything. If you're not an accountant or bookkeeper, hire one (or both). If you need to write up a contract, and you're not a lawyer, hire one. You will waste more time and possibly money in the long run trying to do things yourself that you are not qualifed to do.
8) Get the money lined up. Save up if you have to. Approach potential investors and lenders. Figure our your financial fall-back plan. Don't expect to start a business and then walk into a bank and get money. Traditional lenders don't like new ideas and don't like businesses without proven track records.
9) Be professional from the get-go. Everything about you and the way you do business needs to let people know that you are a professional running a serious business. That means getting all the accoutrements such as professional business cards, a business phone and a business email address, and treating people in a professional, courteous manner.
10) Get the legal and tax issues right the first time. It's much more difficult and expensive to unsnarl a mess afterwards. Does your business need to be registered? Will you have to charge GST or PST? Will you have to have Workers' Compensation Insurance or deal with payroll taxes? How will the form of business you choose affect your income tax situation? Learn what your legal and tax responsibilities are before you start your business and operate accordingly.
Following the advice on starting a business above will make starting a business both a smoother, less stressful process and go a long way towards ensuring the busines you start lasts and thrives.
Let's hope I can follow these and reap the rewards
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Zodiac Sign - Cancer
I've been encouraged to learn about my zodiac sign and other related information. I've decided to share this information with you. My Zodiac Sign is Cancer and it is from June 22nd to July 22nd. This information was taken from Astrology.com [http://www.astrology.com/cancer-sun-sign-zodiac-signs/2-d-d-66919]
Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, is all about home. Those born under this sign are 'roots' kinds of people, and take great pleasure in the comforts of home and family. Cancers are maternal, domestic and love to nurture others. More than likely, their family will be large, too -- the more, the merrier! Cancers will certainly be merry if their home life is serene and harmonious. Traditions are upheld with great zest in a Cancer's household, since these folks prize family history and love communal activities. They also tend to be patriotic, waving the flag whenever possible. A Cancer's good memory is the basis for stories told around the dinner table, and don't be surprised if these folks get emotional about things. Those born under this sign wear their heart on their sleeve, which is just fine by them.
The mascot of Cancer is the Crab, and much like this shelled little critter, Cancers are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. No wonder these folks are called crabby! For Cancer, it's not that big of a deal, though, since they consider this 'shell' a second home (and they do love home). The flip side of this hiding is that shell-bound Crabs are often quite moody. Further, in keeping with their difficulty in sharing their innermost feelings, it can become a Herculean task to pry a Crab out of its secret hiding place. What to do? Give the Crab time -- eventually these folks will come out to play again. When they do, they'll be the first to say so, in keeping with the Cardinal Quality attached to this sign. It's said that Crabs are first to laugh and first to cry, so you can bet they'll fill you in. That shell, by the way, isn't the only tough thing about Crabs. These folks are tenacious and strong-willed and like to get their way. If their well-documented kindness and gentleness doesn't do the trick, however, they're not above using emotional manipulation to make things happen. If that still doesn't work, they'll just go back to their shell and sulk, or find a way to get back at the source of their pain, since Crabs can be rather vindictive. That said, any self-respecting Crab would tell you that they are ultimately motivated by protecting their home and loved ones, a most noble goal.
Cancers are ruled by the Moon -- the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. Here on Earth, this is manifested in the Crab's maternal instincts and desire to protect home and hearth. This may appear smothering at times, but that's the Crab for you. The Moon is associated with fertility, too, a quality that is most pleasing to Cancers. The Moon is also the ruler of moods, and Cancers have plenty of those. These folks can cry you a river if they're so inclined, and they usually are. They can be overly sensitive, easily hurt and prone to brooding. Even so, Crabs find it easy to be sympathetic to others and are quick to show their affection. Their intuition is also a great help to them, especially in times of stress.
The element associated with Cancer is Water. Like the rolling waves of the sea, the Crab's emotions can make quite a splash. These folks tend to pick up on things and bring them in, with the outward result ranging from sentimentality to possessiveness. Crabs need to resist the temptation to become selfish or to feel sorry for themselves, since this behavior won't help. On the bright side, Cancers are good with money (although some consider them too thrifty), probably because they value a sense of security. Crabs are also quick to help others and tend to avoid confrontation. In keeping with their nurturing bent, those born under this sign are a whiz with food. A hearty picnic in the park is heaven-on-earth to most Crabs.
Cancers often find that a robust workout session is just the tonic for their touchy feelings. Team sports are always nice, since they offer a sense of community; water polo should be elemental to aquatic Crabs. What are their team colors? The Moon is silver and white. Since Cancers have a tendency to be lazy, however, they may need someone to push them out the door. When it comes to the game of love, eager Crabs are devoted, romantic and able to get things going on their own. Crabs are wise to listen to their gut, since this sign rules the stomach.
The great strength of the Cancer-born is the tenacity with which they protect their loved ones. These folks don't ask for much, either: a comfortable home and sense of peace about sums it up. It's that nurturing instinct which makes Cancers a pleasure to be with.
Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, is all about home. Those born under this sign are 'roots' kinds of people, and take great pleasure in the comforts of home and family. Cancers are maternal, domestic and love to nurture others. More than likely, their family will be large, too -- the more, the merrier! Cancers will certainly be merry if their home life is serene and harmonious. Traditions are upheld with great zest in a Cancer's household, since these folks prize family history and love communal activities. They also tend to be patriotic, waving the flag whenever possible. A Cancer's good memory is the basis for stories told around the dinner table, and don't be surprised if these folks get emotional about things. Those born under this sign wear their heart on their sleeve, which is just fine by them.
The mascot of Cancer is the Crab, and much like this shelled little critter, Cancers are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. No wonder these folks are called crabby! For Cancer, it's not that big of a deal, though, since they consider this 'shell' a second home (and they do love home). The flip side of this hiding is that shell-bound Crabs are often quite moody. Further, in keeping with their difficulty in sharing their innermost feelings, it can become a Herculean task to pry a Crab out of its secret hiding place. What to do? Give the Crab time -- eventually these folks will come out to play again. When they do, they'll be the first to say so, in keeping with the Cardinal Quality attached to this sign. It's said that Crabs are first to laugh and first to cry, so you can bet they'll fill you in. That shell, by the way, isn't the only tough thing about Crabs. These folks are tenacious and strong-willed and like to get their way. If their well-documented kindness and gentleness doesn't do the trick, however, they're not above using emotional manipulation to make things happen. If that still doesn't work, they'll just go back to their shell and sulk, or find a way to get back at the source of their pain, since Crabs can be rather vindictive. That said, any self-respecting Crab would tell you that they are ultimately motivated by protecting their home and loved ones, a most noble goal.
Cancers are ruled by the Moon -- the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. Here on Earth, this is manifested in the Crab's maternal instincts and desire to protect home and hearth. This may appear smothering at times, but that's the Crab for you. The Moon is associated with fertility, too, a quality that is most pleasing to Cancers. The Moon is also the ruler of moods, and Cancers have plenty of those. These folks can cry you a river if they're so inclined, and they usually are. They can be overly sensitive, easily hurt and prone to brooding. Even so, Crabs find it easy to be sympathetic to others and are quick to show their affection. Their intuition is also a great help to them, especially in times of stress.
The element associated with Cancer is Water. Like the rolling waves of the sea, the Crab's emotions can make quite a splash. These folks tend to pick up on things and bring them in, with the outward result ranging from sentimentality to possessiveness. Crabs need to resist the temptation to become selfish or to feel sorry for themselves, since this behavior won't help. On the bright side, Cancers are good with money (although some consider them too thrifty), probably because they value a sense of security. Crabs are also quick to help others and tend to avoid confrontation. In keeping with their nurturing bent, those born under this sign are a whiz with food. A hearty picnic in the park is heaven-on-earth to most Crabs.
Cancers often find that a robust workout session is just the tonic for their touchy feelings. Team sports are always nice, since they offer a sense of community; water polo should be elemental to aquatic Crabs. What are their team colors? The Moon is silver and white. Since Cancers have a tendency to be lazy, however, they may need someone to push them out the door. When it comes to the game of love, eager Crabs are devoted, romantic and able to get things going on their own. Crabs are wise to listen to their gut, since this sign rules the stomach.
The great strength of the Cancer-born is the tenacity with which they protect their loved ones. These folks don't ask for much, either: a comfortable home and sense of peace about sums it up. It's that nurturing instinct which makes Cancers a pleasure to be with.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Our Song
I find joy in the simplest of things, and this is one of them. Imagine two grown people singing this nursery rhyme for each other and meaning the world to each other when they do.
May you remember to appreciate and cherish the little things in life.
You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
You make me happy when skies are gray.
You never know dear how much I love you.
Please don't take my sunshine away.
May you remember to appreciate and cherish the little things in life.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Red Sunrise
Let your eyes behold me
under her smile
naked
and pure
as I rise as if I were baptized by your love.
My eyes sparkle
in the gray light
for what's on your mind I know in my heart.
Words are unnecessary.
The silence is pure
and truly understood
even more than any word uttered.
And for a moment
I need not be
inconspicuous
but entwined in your mercies,
and entangles in your love
completely
and uncaring.
under her smile
naked
and pure
as I rise as if I were baptized by your love.
My eyes sparkle
in the gray light
for what's on your mind I know in my heart.
Words are unnecessary.
The silence is pure
and truly understood
even more than any word uttered.
And for a moment
I need not be
inconspicuous
but entwined in your mercies,
and entangles in your love
completely
and uncaring.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Power Soca Monarch 2010: DJ HP - Pas Mele
This guy won the power soca monarch competition. I think ought to win the Road March title as well
Friday, July 9, 2010
Maintaining the Summer Bod
By now you're probably fishing for some other exercises to add to your mix to spice things up. Here are a few with my own modifications.
T-stand Push Up
Get into plank position, with only your palms and toes on the ground. Descend into a push-up; return to start, reaching your right arm to the sky and stacking your hips, shoulder and feet. Do 10 reps alternating the T-stands.
A nice alteration to this exercise is doing it on a higher angle. I honestly cannot do push ups so what I do is assume the push up position against a sturdy desk or window sill. I do everything else as instructed.
Russian Twists
Sit holding a medicine ball (if you have one) with your knees slightly bent and upper body at a 45 degree angle. Using your core muscles, twist your upper body to the right, almost letting the ball touch the ground. Repeat to the left in a smooth motion. To make it harder. Lift your right foot off the ground when you twist to the right and vice versa. Do 20 reps. If you don't have a medicine ball, use a heavy book like an encyclopedia or dictionary.
5 Tips for Slimming Down
One! Be active all day - not just during your workout. Take the stairs, deliver the memo in person, dance during the commercial break.
Two! Opt for water instead if high calorie juices and sodas. Or if you need juice drink freshly squeezed.
Three! Make veggies take up half the space on your plate
Four! Find your motivation. Maybe wearing a pedometer inspires you to walk more. Or the competitive camaraderie of classes at the gym makes you work harder.
Five! Visualise your success - if you can "see" it you can achieve it.
Hope these tips and exercise help you maintain your great summer body!
T-stand Push Up
Get into plank position, with only your palms and toes on the ground. Descend into a push-up; return to start, reaching your right arm to the sky and stacking your hips, shoulder and feet. Do 10 reps alternating the T-stands.
A nice alteration to this exercise is doing it on a higher angle. I honestly cannot do push ups so what I do is assume the push up position against a sturdy desk or window sill. I do everything else as instructed.
Russian Twists
Sit holding a medicine ball (if you have one) with your knees slightly bent and upper body at a 45 degree angle. Using your core muscles, twist your upper body to the right, almost letting the ball touch the ground. Repeat to the left in a smooth motion. To make it harder. Lift your right foot off the ground when you twist to the right and vice versa. Do 20 reps. If you don't have a medicine ball, use a heavy book like an encyclopedia or dictionary.
5 Tips for Slimming Down
One! Be active all day - not just during your workout. Take the stairs, deliver the memo in person, dance during the commercial break.
Two! Opt for water instead if high calorie juices and sodas. Or if you need juice drink freshly squeezed.
Three! Make veggies take up half the space on your plate
Four! Find your motivation. Maybe wearing a pedometer inspires you to walk more. Or the competitive camaraderie of classes at the gym makes you work harder.
Five! Visualise your success - if you can "see" it you can achieve it.
Hope these tips and exercise help you maintain your great summer body!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Goal Setting
I was a member of the Caribbean Healthy Lifestyle Project, an awesome organisation that is for youth by youth. Youth empowering each other.
After having a wonderful conversation with a cherished friend of mine, I was reminded of the greatness of this organisation. Maybe I shall try to reconnect with it and do some more training. Time will tell.
One of my favourite topics from the module for CHLP was Goal Setting. I want to share with you the acronym "SMARTER" and how it helps one set goals.
S-specific: always make your goals as specific as possible.
M-measurable: set goals in a way in which you can measure progress
A-accepted: ensure that the foals you set are accepted by yourself.
R-realistic: too difficult a foal may prove unmotivating. Make it challenging but possible and achievable.
T-time framed: always set a time by which you want to achieve the foal, good intentions will always be postponed.
E-exciting: goals need to be exciting, not too easy or there will be no sense accomplishment.
R-recorded: write down your goals. It increases commitment and serves as a record.
When setting goals be careful not to:
* Set goals which are too difficult
* Procrastinate on the plan for personal improvement
* Make an unrealistic self-assessment
* Avoid the risk of failure and not trying to improve.
I hope that with this information you will start challenging yourself and setting some goals. Now, the goals you set need not be strictly academic or professionally. I've set a goal for myself on my other blog The Spotted Fashionista (link available to the left under My Blog List). Check it out and see if I followed these principles.
After having a wonderful conversation with a cherished friend of mine, I was reminded of the greatness of this organisation. Maybe I shall try to reconnect with it and do some more training. Time will tell.
One of my favourite topics from the module for CHLP was Goal Setting. I want to share with you the acronym "SMARTER" and how it helps one set goals.
S-specific: always make your goals as specific as possible.
M-measurable: set goals in a way in which you can measure progress
A-accepted: ensure that the foals you set are accepted by yourself.
R-realistic: too difficult a foal may prove unmotivating. Make it challenging but possible and achievable.
T-time framed: always set a time by which you want to achieve the foal, good intentions will always be postponed.
E-exciting: goals need to be exciting, not too easy or there will be no sense accomplishment.
R-recorded: write down your goals. It increases commitment and serves as a record.
When setting goals be careful not to:
* Set goals which are too difficult
* Procrastinate on the plan for personal improvement
* Make an unrealistic self-assessment
* Avoid the risk of failure and not trying to improve.
I hope that with this information you will start challenging yourself and setting some goals. Now, the goals you set need not be strictly academic or professionally. I've set a goal for myself on my other blog The Spotted Fashionista (link available to the left under My Blog List). Check it out and see if I followed these principles.
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