Christmas is a time of indulgence. For some this seems to be about consuming as much meat as possible. Whenever I read through Christmas cookbooks, I notice an inordinate amount of recipes that seem to include cooking every animal under the sun. So if you are a vegetarian, this time of year can be tricky for you. You may come under a lot of pressure to eat meat, or people may give you a hard time when they notice you are not eating meat. Or perhaps you are worried about what to cook or whether you will go hungry – especially if you are to be a guest in someone else's house. These issues can be particularly tricky if you only recently became vegetarian. Hopefully the following will make your vegetarian Christmas a happy time for all.

Dealing with the pressure

When friends and family gather at Christmas there's a chance that you being vegetarian crops up. Whether in conversation or when they see you not eating meat. So it's entirely possible that you start feeling the pressure to eat meat. It may pay to remind yourself that what you eat has nothing to do with anybody else. Do such people pay as much attention to all the other aspects of your life? What I am saying is being vegetarian is just one of the hundreds of choices you have made in your life. It is a small part of who you are but it is an important part. Don't let pressure from others derail you.

Sometimes you may also feel the pressure to eat meat when it feels like you don't have any good food choices. There are many options out there and it's a great opportunity to head into the kitchen and create something amazing. It can help if you think back to why you became a vegetarian in the first place. I remember arriving in Australia and there were barely any choices for vegetarians. It was in stark contrast to the UK where vegetarians were much more catered for. However, it never occurred to me to start eating meat again. Instead I got stuck into cooking from scratch and was soon easily able to convert many meat recipes into something vegetarian.

What to eat

If you are cooking for yourself this Christmas there are a number of directions you can take and your personality may come into it. Are you a traditionalist or are you happy to move away from the norm?

I personally love tradition. Or rather, the tradition of roast potatoes since they're the best bit and the rest are just accompaniments! If you would prefer a traditional dinner, think about how a traditional dinner can be tweaked to make it vegetarian. Mock meats are widely available and can be easily substituted for the meat other people are eating. It may be worth trying out different brands before Christmas and see what your like. If you don't fancy meat alternatives, there are many other tasty options out there that go well with all the trimmings. Nut roasts, and delicious things wrapped in pastry can be fantastic (I'm thinking pies, Wellingtons, en croute and strudel). Just remember to make a vegetarian gravy and ensure your stuffing balls are vegetarian if you are having them. I often do pigs in blankets – just wrap vegetarian bacon around vegetarian sausages.

If tradition doesn't work for you – don't be afraid to ignore it all together. It's always nice to create new traditions when you find something that works for you. My traditional Christmas breakfast is Nigella Lawson's Christmas morning muffins. I've done them for so long, I can't remember what I used to do and even what a traditional Christmas breakfast would look like. One thing you could do is look at the different dishes people eat around the world at Christmas and take inspiration from them. Or you could just eat your favorite meal. Perhaps primp it up a bit by using the best ingredients or adding some festive flavors or garnishes. When I first moved to Australia I had to get used to Christmas in summer and spent a few years trying out different things, until I found something that worked for me, the climate and made it feel like Christmas. So as well as my traditional dinner I enjoy things like mango salads and the abundance of fresh fruit available – especially cherries.

If you are after recipe ideas – the internet is a fantastic source. The vegetarian society always puts up a Christmas menu and I look forward to checking this out each year. If you like cookbooks, I love Rose Eliot's 'Vegetarian Christmas' and have used it for years. There are some good magazines out there that feature seasonal fare for vegetarians – Good Food magazine is great and also there are some good vegetarian cooking magazines around.

Cooking for others

I know some vegetarians will cook meat for other people. However I've never been one of them. When I left home I became a vegetarian and moved into a flat with my vegetarian boyfriend. So my kitchen has always been vegetarian. Last year I had family for Christmas and warned them beforehand that the meal would be vegetarian. They were happy with this and loved the meal. On Christmas day I made a tasty en croute filled with delicious things like Stilton and chestnuts. With all the trimmings of course. On New Year's Day I did a traditional roast dinner – Yorkshire puddings and all, but instead of beef I used a mock meat. Since I knew my meat eating guests probably wouldn't like the mock meat I told them to bring some slices of cooked meat to add to their meal. This worked well and everyone was happy. Some people will be more open than others to trying mock meats – you'll probably have a fair idea who they are.

Being a vegetarian guest

Some people are more than happy to accommodate the vegetarian, whereas others go into panic mode and draw a blank. So try to make it easy on your host. If your host is worried about what to do, an easy solution is to prepare and take your own main that can be served with the trimmings. Depending on what you are eating, you can also prepare a gravy to take with you. This doesn't have to be a weird thing – tell them it will ease their burden and save them having to worry about you. I've done this before and cooked up a nut roast and taken it with us.

I've found being a guest over the years quite easy. I'm not the activist type – being a vegetarian is a personal thing to me. Although it would be great if everyone was a vegetarian, it's not my role to preach to them. If you do like to be quite vocal however, maybe Christmas (which can be stressful enough anyhow) isn't the time to discuss your beliefs. This way you can enjoy your meal and your family and feel good about yourself.

Finally, you may dread the digs about you being vegetarian – which can become tiresome. One quick solution to this is to smile politely and then change the subject. If you want a winning subject – make the conversation about them. Most people are quite happy to talk about themselves and will soon forget about you.

Now happy eating and happy Christmas!

In emergencies, shelter is critical. To prepare, you can fit any number of ultra lightweight survival tents in your kit. But consider this. There may not be time to grab shelter. As a result, your survival kit might be the very clothes on your back.

After reading this article, you'll know about 6 shelter alternatives that you can come up with in moments.

They are cheap, light weight and effective. So let me show you what I mean about cheap portable survival shelter.

# 1 SURVIVAL BLANKET SHELTER

Emergency space blankets are easy to get. When they first showed up, I was a kid and thought that they "created" heat. Well, they don't. But they have improved. For instance, the Rothco thermal is better than the crinkly mylar space blankets. Its reusable and windproof with corner loop holes. The Rothco is also easy to fold for wrapping around yourself or others. Another alternative is the PROFORCE Emergency Survival Bag.

# 2 GARBAGE BAG SHELTER

Check out the 45 or 55 gallon contractor bags. They are rather large, but they are portable. Some people fold them flat and fit them into the large pocket in the back of their fishing vests. So here's an idea for turning these bags into shelter. Take a bag, cut the end off of it so that there's no bottom. Do this for a second bag. Now tape both bags together, end to end using gaffers or duct tape. You now have a nice tube tent.

# 3 HOUSE WRAP SHELTER

House wrap is becoming an increasingly popular shelter alternative. With it, you can make a tarp, tent or tube tent. You just need planning and extra gear like clip grips and paracord.

# 4 TUBE TENT SHELTER

The concept is simple. A tube serves as a tent. You can buy very cheap and compact tube tents on Amazon or make one as described previously.

# 5 PONCHO SHELTER

Did you know you can make a shelter out of a poncho and shock corded poles?

When you combine both of them, you get a shelter with a shock corded frame. Add a few other items, and you may have a small house! By combining clothing with shelter, you save weight, volume and time with your survival kit.

# 6 TARP SHELTER

A tarp with grommet holes can be versatile. Some even provide great protection against wind and rain. For instance, the Survival Tarp from Chinook is compact, ripstop, waterproof and UV resistant. Also, the Chinook reinforced guy loops around the corners. It's one of the lightest tarps that exists for survival and emergencies.

FINAL THOUGHTS ABOUT QUICK SHELTERS

The key is to think laterally in improvising your shelter in an unexpected situation. Get used to the idea of ​​using common and everyday items.

So as you think about a potential survival situation for yourself or your loved ones, go visit HomeDepot or Lowe's. Try picking up some contractor trash bags and some duct tape. Set yourself up in the back yard and try taping together a tube tent. See how it works.

Who knows. You might need shelter for an unexpected situation. Or the kids might have fun with your affordable survival shelter poncho tent.

1st Lt. Art Tuttle our flight Engineer yelled over the inter-phone; "Doc, our number 4 engine is showing a drop in oil pressure and a rise in cylinder head temperature." Keep an eye on it Art and let me know if your numbers continue to go south, "Captain Doc Waller our pilot commanded.

As the flight's co-pilot I knew that B-29 engines and other bugs had become problems for many other aircrew stationed out of Piardoba, India. We were often overloaded to 140,000lbs to 160,000lbs gross weight, causing the engines to overheat.

Girlfriends, Losses, and Pin Ups

The rapidly building cumulus clouds below held my attention. But, I realized that eighteen hours of B-29 flight time, per mission, in the China Burma Theater gave all of us a lot of time to think about; wives and girlfriends the "Love Boat B-17 over Walker Field, my wife, Betty Ann coaxing the big bomber through the skies over the Michigan / Ohio State football game, my time in the cavalry and new assignment as aide to General Smith. loss of Lt. Edward Pearce, a football star from Flint Northern and 3 year letter winner at Michigan State, on a mountain side in French Morocco … then, First Lt. Charles Hill (MSU halfback), piloting a Liberator over Germany failed to return a month later stuck me like a knife.

Pearce, Hill and I all remained together through 14 transfers to camps and bases, moving from the Cavalry to the Armed Forces and then to the Air Force. We all received our wings together following the same path and I mourned them and their crews. Heartbroken, their widows with new born carried on … and kept the faith that their loved ones would return.

The selection of nose art was important to crew bonding … the spirit and pride of each crew. The more personal, intimate and irreverent the better for 19 to 24 years olds in this war. Maybe a pinup on the side of an aircraft would cause the enemy to pause (in laughter or desire) in his pursuit of shooting down our plane giving our gunners a chance to nail him first. A playboy pinup or worse sure was exciting to most and a relief for some. Themes ran from saucy or sexual to cartoon / caricatures, persons, logo / name, and name only themes. What the hell the more garish the better. If it relieved some tension and we let it rip. It was a lot of fun and suddenly every man became an artist in each aircrews drive for a representative coat of arms.

Star Duster's Struggle

SSgt James Lynch, our right gunner suddenly yelled over the inter-phone; "Doc, our number 4 is smoking." Here we go again, I thought, as Captain Doc Waller, our pilot, told Jimmy to keep an eye out for flames and 1st Lt. Art Tuttle, Flight Engineer, to get on the gauges, monitor temps and pressures and his emergency check list.

Number 4s timing could not have been worse. We were at 34,000 feet over the Himalayas. This is not a bombing mission but a cargo flight. We carry eight rubberized fuel tanks secured in the bomb racks, 2900 gallons to off load after 13 more hours of flight direct to our advanced base in the Cheng Tu Valley … in preparation for the push to bomb Japan's homeland.

Were a long way from home carrying this much fuel on board. A possible engine fire was now more frightening that being shot at over Kyushu and Yokohama from intense and accurate anti-aircraft

I looked over at Doc, quietly concentrating on his next task. He was going through his emergency procedures and options while descending and reversing course – in case the worst happened. He knew twelve men were counting on his life or death decisions. Dock told me to take the yoke and I flew "STARDUSTER" on our new heading. I kept an eye on number 4 while probing Art Tuttle for engine performance numbers and asking for constant updates from our engine eyes in the back.

Through the early morning darkness we pressed on. None of us expected that our missions would come without casualties or that our own plane would have any better chance than the others to emerge without damage. The question we all pondered … What if? And it looked like the answer to what if might become a reality … shortly.

Number 4 engine was slowly losing power and now we smelled gas fumes in the nose of the aircraft. With a sudden dramatic yaw to the right, TSgt Alden Huisjen, our senior gunner yelled, "We've got thick black smoke coming out of number 4 now." Quickly, I turned to confirm our problem child on the starboard wing. Doc gave me that look and I nodded a confirmation of the reality of our problem. Our converted B-29 tanker was now in real trouble.

Doc immediately reduced the power upon hearing of the smoke coming out of engine even while Art reported that all engine instruments showed normal indications. The power reduction had reduced the volume of smoke but within 10 minutes, a large column of oil and smoke suddenly steamed out of the upper nacelle. SSgt Don Carter, our radio operator, went to the forward bomb bay to investigate the gas fumes. Doc was worried that the fumes would saturate the plane and all of the crew might become affected.

"Fire, fire now coming out of number 4," Alden yelled, "The flames are growing."

Suddenly, there was a second shudder and Art looked at the tachometer and notified the pilots that the MAPs / RPMs on number 4 were falling fast. The engine then shook violently and stopped all together …

Surviving a number of life challenges is ingrained in humans from the time of birth. For the majority, survival is paramount. Many of which, would consider doing almost anything in order to survive or escape an emergency situation. Whether camping, hiking, or facing a world crisis, the need to find food, shelter and warmth are all, vital elements in the art of survival techniques. Many accomplished explorers and hikers are aware of how to survive. For the less experienced it can be a daunting prospect. Preparing for emergency situations and knowing what tools are needed in order to survive can be confusing for many. This article looks at survival kits and which items to include.

Whether preparing a camping or hiking trip, or facing a crisis, survival is important to all involved. Food, shelter and warmth are daily requirements in any given situation. It is has often been recommended that keeping a stock of food, toiletries, alternative lighting, and cooking supplies along with extra blankets in the home can aid survival should a major crisis occur. The majority of people who require a kit in order to survive are mainly those who hike, explore and camp on a regular basis. These are the people who’re familiar with essential survival tools.

There are a number of items, which are optional to include within a survival kit. But for all survival kits, first aid essentials in the form of a basic first aid kit, along with water or water purification tablets are the most important and most needed items.

Other items often included within a survival kit can vary in style, but all serve the purpose for which they are intended. One of the most common tools included is a knife of some sort. A pocketknife in particular is a common occurrence. This is because they can easily be folded away and stored in pockets, making them easy to carry as well. Small tool kits can also be included in a survival kit as they can be used in hunting for food and building a shelter.

Compass, map of area, flashlights or headlamps, cash, blanket, suitable clothes for time of year and communication devices are all valuable and essential when putting together a kit for survival. Cell phones can also be used as a communication device, but are not practical if there is no cell phone signal available. Spare batteries for flashlights, or headlamps will be required in order to maintain light.

Other items often found in survival kits include a basic fire starting kit or small camping stove. These are not essential, but can save time and energy. Food as mentioned before is vital, many kits contain either canned or freeze dried foods. Water containers or bottles, make it easier to store and carry water. Some kits also contain heavy-duty garbage bags. These have a variety of uses and can be essential items when trying to survive. Pee bags are another optional tool to include in a kit.

Did you know that the same skills used in Survival Situations are the

same skills needed for effective Leadership? The U.S. military uses

the word SURVIVAL as a mnemonic device to help its troops and leaders

remember right actions under fire. Visionary Leadership:

*S: Size up the Situation*. Survivalists know that they need to survey their environment before taking action. Today’s Successful Leaders

need to do the same. Unfortunately I have seen too many newly promoted

managers, so anxious to prove their worth , begin immediately making

changes before a careful business/organizational analysis. The result:

A disruption of customers and employees and often negative

consequences to the organization. Always conduct Intel, before

offering opinion or direction.

*U: *Undue Haste Makes Waste:* A companion to the S in Survival with

one additional rule pertaining to crisis situations. Did you know that

an angry or emotional person’s I.Q. drops 50%? How many leaders can

afford to lose that much brain power in their decision making? Rule of

thumb: Never make a business decision while in an emotionally charged

state and that includes addressing employees when you’re under

pressure or under fire.

*R: Remember where you are: *Always check that your decisions and

actions are in keeping with your organization’s mission statements,

values and key business objectives. Ask yourself on a regular basis.

“Is this the best use of my time to accomplish the overall

organization mission and strategic objectives?” If the answer is no,

re-think the task. It takes discipline for a leader to stay on point

and not get lost in the jungle. Remember, the best way to get found in

the wilderness is to focus on not getting lost in the first place.

Vision and Clear Goals are key.

*V: Vanquish Fear and Panic: *A running animal is a vulnerable animal.

Do you know leaders and managers who run around the office making

everyone crazy? Do they look like a leader who is cool and calm in a

crisis? I think not. Here’s a simple communication rule to improve

your leadership credibility rating. People who speak slower and wait 2

to 3 seconds to respond are considered much more credible. * *Use the

“Power of the Pause to your advantage”. If you find yourself cutting

people off in mid-sentence or running around frenetically in response

to pressure, both are warning signals to slow down and pause!

*I: Improvise: *Are you Solution Oriented or Problem Focused? Today’s

Successful leaders recognize they won’t always have the perfect world

and so become quickly known as the McGuiver’s in their organization.

The question is are you a Go-To or a Run- From Leader? A Go- To

leader, presents a solution for every problem presented.. A Run- From

leader whines about their lack of resources. You be the judge of which

category your organization would put you in.

*V: Value Living: *I have met the most brilliant people who are

unfortunately poor managers because they know little about those

around them who make things happen. If you value the life of your

employees, they will value their partnership with you.

*A*: *Act Like the Natives: *Recognize that empathy and finding common

ground with customers, employees, colleagues and upper management are

the key to your survival. Coming in like a tourist, telling the

natives what you do in their country won’t win you points in any camp.

*L: Learn Something New*—–Every day! Today’s successful leader

needs to be an information and learning machine. Stay up on best

practices, new consumer trends, competitors and yes, even pop culture.

Your adaptability to life’s ever changing conditions is the key to

your survival. Ever met someone who talks about the good ole days?

Chances are they’re not Leadership Survivors!

Rosemary Rein, is the Author of GO Wild! Go GREAT !Training Seminars

for Leadership and Customer Service. http://www.gowildgogreat.com, delivering keynote presentations and

1-day seminars in the United States, Canada and Latin America.

Email Rosemary@

rosemary@gowildgogreat.com

How To Build The Best EDC Kit

An Every Day Carry Kit, or EDC, is comprised of the everyday carry gear, including emergency items, that you might need to face challenges or dangers, that come between you and home. In the strictest sense, we all take an EDC kit with us each day. Our wallet or purse, keys, money, cell phone; these are the things we’ve decided we need each day to ensure that we can do what we need to do and get home safely. But is it everything you need?

Identifying Your Everyday Carry Gear Needs

If only we knew exactly what situations we would face on a given day, we would never leave our house unprepared. There are no warnings given for disasters. You have to try to anticipate your needs before they arrive. Your daily routine can give you some ideas about the types of situations for which you need to be prepared.

Where Do You Live? Do you live in an urban, suburban, or country community? Or do you live so far out in the boonies that, without a four-wheel-drive truck, you’d need a 72-hour pack to make it home alive?

Work Environment? You may live in a gated community but work in a dangerous part of town. Consider where you’ll be spending time, especially outside of your car, as a part of determining likely risk.

Long Commute? People who commute long distances have a higher likelihood of certain challenges like car trouble, or dangers such as car accidents.

Responsible For Others? If you often have children with you, you may need to consider their needs as a part of your every day carry gear.

Unique Medical Needs? Do you suffer from a food allergy, bee allergy, asthma, high blood pressure or diabetes? Rescue medications like back up inhalers, epi-pens, blood pressure medicine, insulin, and needles would need to be a part of every kit you prepare.

Assessing What Challenges or Dangers You Are Likely to Face?

There are three types of scenarios for which you need to be prepared.

Challenges: common situations like a flat tire or a dark parking lot, a power outage; things that won’t kill you, but a little preparation goes a long way toward making things easier.

Threats: a personal attack, car accident, injury, or an opportunity to help another person with one of these scenarios.

Catastrophes: Terrorist attack, natural disaster, rioting, getting lost or breaking down way out in the wilderness, anything that results in a major disruption to routine, or makes it necessary for you to survive on your own, at least for a time.

You know your routine. Only you can identify your unique needs and likely threats. It’s important to be prepared, but if you try to prepare for every single emergency that could ever arise, you could end up with an EDC kit that’s so enormous you never have it with you. The very best everyday carry gear is the gear you actually have on you when the need arises.

The Difference Between an EDC, a GHB, and a Bug Out Bag

If your initial instinct is to over-prepare, relax. At least you’re on the right track. There are several types of emergency kits that are valuable to have around, and they all serve slightly different purposes. A Get Home Bag, or GHB, carries a little more equipment than you would want to carry on your person and is designed to do exactly what the name implies, get you home. Another type of emergency kit, called a Bug Out Bag, or BOB, and is as much as you can carry (within reason) and is designed to give you everything you need to survive up to a week. The weight limit recommendation for a Bug Out Bag is 1/3 of a man’s body weight and 1/4 of a woman’s.

Preparing for eventualities with all three of these types of kits in mind can allow you to prepare efficiently and give you ultimate peace of mind. You could think of it this way: Your everyday carry gear is designed to get you to your Get Home Bag. Your GHB is designed to get you to your Bug Out Bag. And your BOB is designed to support you through a minimum of a week in the wilderness, should the need arise. Best case scenario, you never need a GHB or a BOB, but it’s nice to have them. An EDC kit, however, you are almost certain to need at least a couple of times a year.

What To Carry In Your Every Day Carry Kit

There are many recommended items that you might want to carry as a part of your EDC kit. Based on the risk assessment that you’ve already performed, you’ll need to choose the items that best help you meet those needs.

Must Have Items:

Self Defense – a knife, box cutter, credit card knife, tactical pen – any item that you can use to defend yourself.

Fire – Lighter – windproof is best, waterproof matches, fire starting kit. Depending on the size of the kit you’re creating, you can choose the size. But at a minimum, you should have at least one way to start a fire.

Light – Flashlight – You may end up with several different light sources, stored in different places, and in different kits. But you should always have some source of light on you at all times. If nothing else, a mini flashlight on your key chain is a must.

Compass – this could easily be incorporated with an analog watch, rather than as a separate piece of equipment. What you can’t count as a compass is the GPS in your cell phone. In the event of infrastructure failure, one of the first things you’ll lose is your cell service. You need an old fashioned, magnetic compass, either integrated into your analog watch, or by itself.

Cordage – a box of unflavored floss, a paracord bracelet, a bundle of paracord, or even replacing your shoelaces with paracord – too many situations will require some type of cordage. Don’t be without it.

Shelter – Mylar blankets are the easiest and lightest choice for very small kits. As you develop larger, more advanced GHBs, or BOBs, you can incorporate better shelter. But a Mylar blanket or two will go a long way in a pinch.

First Aid Kit – This can be as simple as a few bandaids, a couple of alcohol pads, and some antibiotic, or as evolved as a full fledged First Aid Kit, complete with a defibrillator. Consider the other kits you’re preparing, and carry what you think you’ll need. First aid items you may want to consider, even for a small kit, include: band aids, bandages, alcohol, antibiotic, antacids, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and certainly must include any personal rescue medications.

Food – or more correctly, a way to get food. At a minimum, a couple of fishing hooks in your daily wear hat, or folded into a piece of aluminum foil in your wallet, or a small medicine bottle full of supplies, you choose. These can be combined with your floss for fishing line.

Cash – You should always have at least some cash that is for emergency use only. It’s probably a good idea to store it separately from your normal funds.

Should Have Items:

Items you should incorporate into your everyday carry gear, if you can. If necessary, use this list to begin putting together a Get Home Bag.

Small Pill Bottle of Vaseline – Vaseline (or any petroleum based jelly) has variety of uses including treating chapped lips and hands, cuts and scrapes, and for use as a fire accelerant

Cotton Balls – first aid uses and as tinder for starting a fire

Weatherproof Matches or Fire Striker

Battery – at least AA size. Maybe you already have one in your flashlight, but carry spares if at all possible. They come in handy for other things, too, like starting fires.

Small Wire Saw – This can be included as part of a credit card size multi-tool, to cut down on the amount of gear you have to carry.

Fishing Supplies – a couple of fishing hooks in your daily wear hat, or folded into a piece of aluminum foil in your wallet, or a small medicine bottle full of supplies, you choose.

Food – hard candies, a bullion cube, anything to give you calories and a morale boost. The more the better, within reason.

Water Purification – Whether tablets or a filtration system, something to get you clean water in a pinch. There are straw sized filtration systems.

Multi-Tool – either full sized, or a credit card multi-tool that you carry in your wallet.

Whistle – For signaling, scaring away wild animals, or human attackers

Super Glue – comes in mini tubes and can serve a variety of purposes, including minor repairs, first aid, and as a fire accelerant.

Nice to Have Items:

A few things that it would be nice to have, if you can fit it in. If it won’t fit in your everyday carry gear, this could be the beginnings of a great Get Home Bag.

Small Address Book – in the event that you lose the use of your cell phone, you’ll need the emergency contact information for those closest to you. Include in it, any other information you might have difficulty calling to mind under stressful situations.

Shoes – a spare pair, in case you have to walk a long way. Hiking boots would be preferable. This is especially important for women, who might be wearing heels when they discover the need to walk.

Larger Knife or Weapon – Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Bright Yellow Poncho – good for weather protection and easier to spot.

Stainless Steel Water Bottle or Thermos – This can also be used as your kit container, as a weapon, or just to keep some water in.

Food – One or more high calorie energy bars or protein bars, enough to get you through a few hours of stress, at least.

Finding The Right Container For Your EDC Kit

Once you’ve assessed your needs, and chosen the items you can and will carry on you every day, it’s time to figure out how to carry it. There are a couple of ways to go. The typical method is to get a small container and fit your gear inside. You’ll need to choose a container size based on how you’ll be carrying your kit. If you have a briefcase or purse, you can accommodate a larger size. If it must go in your pocket, you’ll have to use a smaller container and be more creative in the way you carry anything that doesn’t fit.

Metal Box – If you can find something metal that fits your needs, a metal container is optimal. It will hold its shape and maintain a water tight seal better than some plastic containers. If necessary, you could also use it to cook with. Altoids tins are a popular choice, especially for an in-your-pocket EDC kit, though it is limiting in its size.

Plastic – The advantage of a plastic container is how easy it can be to find one in a size that fits your needs. Rubbermaid style containers come in a variety of sizes and are inexpensive. The downside is the lid can sometimes be too easy to remove; you may have to seal it with some duct tape.

Organization Pack – Commercial EDC organizational packs are available in a number of sizes, designed specifically to help you organize your essential Every Day Carry Gear.

Wearing Your Gear – You can distribute your gear throughout your clothing, using cargo pants pockets, your hat, key ring, wallet, a chain or lanyard, etc. Women are at a distinct advantage because they are expected to carry a purse, and by simply carrying a slightly larger one they can accommodate many more items with little trouble. Men can improve their carrying abilities, depending on their work dress code, by wearing cargo pants with a number of pockets, or carrying a briefcase or small backpack with them to work. (Maybe now is the time to consider purchasing that ultra trendy man purse you’ve been secretly eyeing.)

Self-Contained Kit – Your container could also be a part of your kit. A thermos or metal container that can be used for cooking, etc. The only downside to this container is that you still have to figure out how to carry it with you every day.

The Best EDC Kit

There’s what you should carry, and then there’s what you will carry. The very best Every Day Carry kit is the one you have with you when you need it, and includes the knowledge to use the gear you’ve carried. All the preparation in the world doesn’t do you any good, if you don’t have your gear or don’t know how to use it. So be realistic in your risk assessment, practical in your kit assembly (remember you can assemble a GHB and BOB, as well, you don’t have to carry everything every minute), learn to use the items you’ve chosen, and be faithful in carrying your Every Day Carry Gear, every day!

Anticipatory grief – a feeling of loss before a death or dreaded event occurs – is a hard journey. Holidays make it even harder. At a time when you’re supposed to feel happy and joyful, you feel sad and anxious. You’re on pins and needles and wonder what will happen next.

Remember, your grief stems from love, and you may find comfort in that. Holidays don’t erase your reasons for feeling sad and lonely, according to the National Mental Health Association, and “there is room for these feelings to be present.” So accept your feelings and, if you feel like crying, go ahead and do it.

Crying will help you to feel better. Here are some other ways you can help yourself.

BE REALISTIC. You don’t have to create a “perfect” holiday. Do you really need to knit sweaters for everyone? No. Do you really need to serve a six course meal? No. What you need to do is set realistic goals, get organized, and pace yourself. Rather than focusing on one day, the National Mental Health Association recommends focusing on “a season of holiday sentiment.”

ASK FOR HELP. You don’t need to do everything yourself. Family members and friends will be glad to help with planning, decorating, and cooking. One family member could bring a traditional dish, such as pumpkin pie. Another family member could provide linens and launder them afterwards. Your request for help makes others feel needed.

BUDGET. Finances can cause stress at any time, but they cause lots of stress during the holidays. Set a budget for gifts, decorations, and entertaining. Staying within your budget will make you feel better about the holidays and yourself. Your gifts don’t have to be new. Holiays are a perfect time to pass along family possessions – a flower vase, historic photo, or beloved book. Stick a short note about the item in with your gift.

EAT RIGHT. Because nutrition affects brain chemistry, you need to eat balanced meals during the holidays. Yummy as they look, pass up the candy and cookies that come your way. Choose lots of fruits and veggies from the buffet table and one dessert. Keeping a supply of healthy snacks on hand will also help you to eat right.

DRINK MODERATELY. Alcohol makes the holiday blues worse, according to the National Mental Health Association. Too much alcohol can cause you to say things you’ll regret later. If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation or skip it all together. Drink sparkling cider, non-alcoholic punch, or flavored water instead of alcohol.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP. You’ve probably thinking, “Yeah, right.” But you need sleep to survive the holidays. Getting enough sleep is hard to do with so many holiday events going on. However, you may be selective about what you attend, leave early, and get a good night’s sleep. Balance a late night with a short nap the next day.

LIGHT YOUR WAY. Vanerbilt University wellness experts say more people get depressed during the holidays than at any other time. Some of these people have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you live in a cold climate and the days are short you may wish to be evaluated for SAD. Phototherapy (intense lighting) is usually recommended for those with SAD. Even if you don’ have SAD well lit rooms will lift your spirits.

EXERCISE. Daily physical activity is a proven way to cope with stress. Walk around town or the local mall and look at holiday decorations. Play catch with your kids or grandkids. Bundle up and go cross country skiing. A half hour of physical activity per day helps to chase the blues away.

BE CONCILATORY. According to http://www.MayoClinic.com family tensions may flare during the holidays if members are “thrust together for several days.” Holidays aren’t the time to settle family disputes, they’re a time for concilatory and kind behavior. Discuss family grievances at a later date.

HELP OTHERS. Holidays are associated with families and togetherness according to Jill RachBeisel, MD, Director of Community Psychiatry at the University of Maryland. But, due to the divorce rate and fragmented families, many don’t have this kind of holiay experience. Still, you may connect with a substitute family by volunteering a a senior center, reading to shut-ins, or tutoring children.

MAKE NEW MEMORIES. The memories you make during this holiday season may comfort you in the future. Take digital photos of holiday events and put them on a CD. Send copies of the CD to all family members. Every family has stories to tell and you may create new memories by tape recording some of these stories. You may also videotape holiday events.

SAVOR THE MOMENT. Though you are sorrowful, you’re alive, able to be with those you love and care about. Surround yourself with life: family members, dear friends, colorful flowers, a tail-wagging dog, and hobbies that make you happy. For every moment of life – even the sorrowful ones – is a miracle.

Copyright 2005 by Harriet Hodgson. To learn more about her work go to http://www.harriethodgson.com

It's a sad state of affairs when money supersedes the need to survive. The world is on the brink of total disaster yet authorities are focused on money-making projects rather than on how and why this is the case. Governments appear obsessed with things like trade and big business. Those in the poorer categories are ever more abandoned to their fate as wages are cut and their situation deteriorates.

So desperate are some that when a billionaire, such as Donald Trump, promises them jobs and a better life they willingly support and elect him to the most powerful position in the world, that of President of the United States. This is happening in other countries as well where wealthy people, such as the Prime Minister of Australia, are also elected.

Both these leaders have taken stands against climate change while their attention is drawn to big business handouts with large tax cuts while the little people are financially pushed ever harder. The Australian government has cut penalty rates for those who work on Sundays and some will feel the loss of that money harder because of their circumstances.

Likewise, these two leaders favor coal over renewable energy and are allowing the development of more coal mines to occur. Australia is about to see the commencement of one of the largest of these industries in the world, the Adani Mine in Queensland, and that at the risk of the Great Barrier Reef.

Climate change, over-population, and the threat of imminent nuclear war, are just some of the outcomes of putting money ahead of survival. Slowly, over the last 2 millennia especially, something peculiar has occurred that is having disastrous effects.

First is the use of money as a form of exchange. It has enable some to grow rich at the expense of others. Then came taxation, which gives governments control over populations, and finally came the attitude that some men are more deserving and better than the rest.

While the grab for power increased the importance of wealth and position it also brought a deeply unbalanced set of circumstances. Slavery is only a small part of it with nature the real victim. Nothing of a natural occurrence is worth preserving in the eyes of those who can use it to increase their bank balance.

While the rest will suffer the consequences the systems put in place by Constantine, a Roman Emperor, remain as the foundation of the World Order and, therefore, the establishment. In Revelation 13: 12-18 he is described as the Second Beast who carries the number 666.

One does not have to be a genius to work out how his religions, the Roman Catholic Church and the Muslim Branch of it, are at the core of all the wars and terrorism that has taken place over the last 2,000 years. Laid at his feet also is the encouragement to reproduce without thought other than that it is somehow related to commands given by God.

My reincarnation led me to research the origin of religion and power. It led me back in time to the Persian Empire and worship of the sun, which is the first beast of Revelation. Men became so obsessed with it as the Creator and producer of all life that it has never waned as such in their minds.

The most educated don't accept the fact that power on earth is nothing but an invention by men who seek to become gods, at any cost. While their money-hungry and selfish ways are at work to destroy everything it is beyond anyone to stop those who see wealth as acceptance into glory. This is the trap that was set from the start and why the two beasts have stood as beacons for actions against the Spirit of the Universe, the real God.

We are entering an increasingly dangerous period in the history of mankind. Our world, our oceans are so precariously close to causing unimaginable, catastrophic disaster for all life on planet Earth. Ever since the dawn of man all of humanity has survived on various sources of food. But, the one source of food that has dictated the rise of all the others came from the worlds oceans. Today, our oceans, our food, and man’s own existence depends on the vitality of life and the sustainability of our oceans to maintain and support that vitality of life. So catastrophic the demise of the vitality of life in all the worlds oceans caused by mans selfish and aggressive instincts all life on this planet is indeed in jeopardy. The depletion of the vitality of life in our oceans has been sharply increasing every year with no apparent reversal in sight. Just within the past 50 years mankind has wrought humanities own survival into question.

This crisis announces itself on the bare tables of families all over the world. The breath and scope of what is fast becoming the largest man induced cataclysmic carnage against humanity of biblical proportions millions are now facing the harsh realities of trying just to survive. From the endless slaughter of the majestic Blue fin Tuna, the slow strangulation of a fishing village in Newfoundland in which the collapse of cod has destroyed the livelihoods and a way of life that had existed for generations, to nations that continue to ignore international laws in trawling with nets held open by heavy bulldozers dragging along seabed’s where they indiscriminately catch any and every form of sea life only to disposed over 95% of what they catch.

Not only is the world faced with depleting seafood mankind has only exasperated that growing global threat of mass starvation by continued ignorance, and a blatant refusal to acknowledge what global warming has and continues to do to the worlds food supply, mainly life in and around our oceans. The effects of global warming are now more apparent than ever in Canada’s Hudson Bay. Representing the Polar Bears southern limit habitat. Hudson Bay has been increasingly experiencing shorter winters which leads to earlier ice melts and forcing the bears on shore before they have a chance to fully replenish their fat reserves by feeding on the seals which live on the ice. A delicate balance of nature is through off balance, by man.

Our population and our use of the finite resources of planet Earth have been growing exponentially. But it just maybe it’s in our human nature or some would venture to say our genetic code that drives man to ignore or dismiss what we have and are still doing to the worlds food supply. Greed, and selfish aggressive instincts still manage to rule over prudent and humane policies where the balance of nature can regain it’s balance.

The sad irony of all this takes place in countries all over the world; but it is so apparent in Africa where much of the world’s exportation of their food primarily the Nile Perch continues to only grow the rate of poverty and starvation The fish that are caught there remain unaffordable for most of the African population. The exportation of food and the other resources of the African Continent is hastening the rate of poverty in every African nation. The Nile Perch that are harvested and caught are filleted for export. All that remains for the population are the carcasses which does nothing but continue the plight of starvation of millions of native Africans. With years of over fishing fish stocks have fallen drastically imperiling the livelihoods of over 100,000 fishermen and depriving millions of Africans food.

In a span of just 50 years the volume of Global fishing has risen from in 1950 under 20 million metric tons to today over 100 million metric tons of fish are caught each year now. An example of just how bad things really are today; to supply the worlds sushi markets the giant Blue fin Tuna are harvested at four times the sustainable rate. At the present time the rate of harvesting of Blue fin Tuna it is inevitable that this species will soon become extinct. The balance of nature is sure to be again, uprooted.

Not only is the species of tuna faced with probable extinction but all marine life is threatened by man’s lack of empathy for all life on this planet. What international laws are in place to protect marine life still countries blatantly ignore proper protocol in keeping the letter of the laws that are in place to protect and preserve all of the worlds natural food sources. If all fishing is done with the hook and line method spawning grounds would still be intact, fish would be plentiful, and our oceans would no longer be threatened with mass extinctions.

Compounding the existence of over fishing the worlds oceans are facing the most extreme dangerous conditions the world has seen. The pollution that is spreading and threatening every species of marine life continues unabated. It’s as though the oceans and waterways of the earth are now mankind’s dumping grounds. Without remorse or concern for living organisms that inhabit our water mankind continues to ignore their plight. With the rate man continues to burn fossil fuels with ever increasing ferocity there continues to be more pollution as a result pouring into our waterways and ending up in our oceans. With the onslaught of more non biodegradable refuge ending up in the oceans it also has a most adverse catastrophic effect on all marine life.

What must be done to preserve, protect and maintain the worlds food supply? Most scientists and known environmentalists agree that the worlds oceans must be managed as ecosystems. The management councils that oversee fisheries such as the ICCAT which by the way, have been long dominated by the commercial fishing interests, must share authority with scientists and conservationists. Governments must cut back half of the 4 million fishing vessels now in service to keep pace with the sustainability of fish in the worlds oceans, along with slashing the 25 million dollars in government subsidies bestowed annually on the fishing industry.

These are just some of the most important reforms that must take place to protect and preserve the delicate balance in our worlds oceans. Aliening with these reforms and to reverse the effects caused by man’s reluctance to openly embrace the energy of the third industrial revolution there has to be a real consorted effort by every nation to discard the energy of the second industrial revolution. Only then will the world begin to regain the balance of nature that will ensure mans survival. It is a multi level facet of programs, policies, and laws that must be initiated and enforced first to stop the eradication of vital sources of food, second, to regain the balance of nature, and finally to dramatically reduce the effect of global warming. All of these contingencies without direct action now mankind is on the proverbial path toward self destruction.

Breast cancer is an extremely common type of cancer among women. If you would like to learn more about this sickness, continue reading this article. Throughout the article we will discuss different statistics regarding breast cancer, as well as discuss the different stages and the survival rates of this disease.

As said previously, cancer of the breast is extremely common among women. It is, in fact, the second most common illness of this kind among American women (coming in second to skin cancer). Statistics suggest that 1 in every 12 women will develop breast cancer throughout their lifetime. Men can also develop this disease, but the statistics are much smaller.

According to the American Cancer Society, if a woman is diagnosed with this disease, there is a 3% chance that it could be fatal, leading to death. Since 1990, the number of women dying from this disease has decreased, mostly due to increased awareness and screening. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with this dreaded illness, do not lose hope. There are presently over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States alone.

There are several different stages of this type of cancer. The different stages of breast cancer are dependent upon 4 things; the size of the tumor, what type it is (invasive or non-invasive), whether or not lymph nodes are involved, and whether or not the illness has spread to other areas of the body. Let us take a brief look at the different stages of breast cancer.

The first stage which is considered stage 0, describes non-invasive breast cancers. In this stage, all cancerous cells remain in the breast and do not invade into into tissues. Stage 1, on the other hand, describes invasive breast cancer. Invasive cancer means that the cancer cells are breaking out of the breast and heading into into tissues. In stage 1, the tumor is up to 2 cm in length and no lymph nodes are involved.

Stage II if the disease is divided into 2 categories; IIA and IIB. Both stages involve invasive cancers. An individual is diagnosed with Stage IIA breast cancer when no tumor is found in the breast but cancer cells are found in the lymph nodes, when a tumor in the breast (measuring up to 2 cm) has spread into the lymph nodes, or when the tumor in the breast is between 2-5cm but has not spread to the lymph nodes. Stage IIB is diagnosed when the tumor is between 1-5cm and has spread to the lymph nodes, or when the tumor is larger than 5cm and has not spread to the lymph nodes.

Stage III of this illness is also divided into subcategories (IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC). Stage IIIA cancer is diagnosed when cancer has spread into the lymph nodes and they are clumping together. Stage IIIB is diagnosed when the tumor has spread to the chest wall or skin of the breast. Finally, stage IIIC is diagnosed when the tumor has spread to the chest wall or breast, and has spread to the lymph nodes. The final stage of breast cancer, stave IV, occurs when the cancer has spread to other organs of the body.

This dreaded cancer is a very common type of cancer among women but with a healthy diet and exercise you can help fight this sickness. Be sure to have regular check ups done with your health care professional to ensure that you are breast cancer free! Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry!