Waivers for college students

Did you know that the federal government does not consider the income/assets of the non-custodial parent when determining a student's financial need (even though it does consider child support received by the custodial parent). However, many private colleges do take into account the income and assets of the non-custodial parent, even if he/she does not want to contribute to college costs. These colleges require a supplemental financial aid form from the non-custodial parent. The supplemental aid form from the non-custodial parent will affect the awarding of the school's own aid but not federal and state aid. In special circumstances, some private colleges may waive the requirements for non-custodial parent information. Meeting one or more of the following criteria would not automatically qualify a single parent household for a waiver, but it would cause the college to consider giving a waiver:

1. The non-custodial parent cannot be located.
2. The non-custodial parent has not made child support payments recently or consistently.
3. The divorce or separation took place so long ago that it is unreasonable to expect a contribution from the non-custodial parent.
4. The non-custodial parent has a history of abuse or neglect with the child or other parent.

Documentation, such as court records, of the above criteria would be required in order to be considered for a waiver of the non-custodial parent information. If you get divorced when your children are very young, most people don't consider college into their divorce decree. They should. I know that grants are issued in many circumstances and I suggest applying for all of them. Dont forget to ask about the waiver as well. If you get approved for only one grant, at least that will help your child with some of the money owed. Many people work their way thru college with a heavy loan to pay back at the end. If you can take some of that load off of their shoulders, why wouldn't you? Plan ahead and think smart. It your child's future.

Depression

Something that affects most everyone at some time in their life is depression. I'm not talking about a bad day, because we all have those. Extended periods lasting days, weeks, months, and sometimes years is what I'm focusing on. How does it happen and where do you find the strength to overcome it? Most people turn to medication. That could be good or bad. Speaking from experience, I tried the alternative to natural happiness and ventured down the path of Effexor. It took a while to make a difference, but once it did, I found myself more carefree than I had ever been in my life. What a wonderful drug, I thought to myself. That lasted about 6 months. I then came to the realization that if I wanted to continue feeling like this, I would never be able to quit. That scared me a bit. I wanted to be happy but I wanted to deal with what was making me depressed in the first place and overcome it myself. So I quit. After a week of hardcore withdrawal, I finally felt normal again. The funny thing is, I realized the thing that was making me so unhappy had actually ran its course and I was able to cope on my own. That doesnt happen for everyone.

I think counseling is a wonderful way to help with depression. It helped me. Finding a therapist can be a bit tricky because you need to feel comfortable, but once I did, I spent an hour each week crying to a complete stranger. It felt good. Exercise and hobbies are also a great way to get past the hard times to a place that is easier to deal with. Sadness comes and goes, for the most part. Our job is to find out what is making us miserable and fix it or to mourn the loss of someone or something that is bringing us grief. Its just another part of life and growing as a person. If you think you are alone, your not. Everyone has hard times. Just find your inner strength and persevere. It can be done. Always remember, this too shall pass. And if it doesnt, seek professional help. We only have one shot at life, spending it in misery should never be an option.

Wordless "Happy Halloween" Wednesday

So I went to see Saw V......

For date night last weekend, we decided on dinner and a movie. DBF Michael loves the Saw series so we went to see Saw V. I'm a scary movie buff. I have always loved movies that get my adrenaline going. However, I thought Saw was more gore than scare. They go back and forth throughout the movie answering questions that you often wondered. It show's a couple flashback of how Jigsaw set up the rooms that he put the victims in. It also explained his thought process for the things that he did. I liked the fact that they gave back story and it wasn't just blood and guts. Oh, they still had that. You know how the previous movies went, right? Strangers put in a room and they have to do awful things to themselves or each other to survive. This time though, It didn't make me sick to my stomach. There seemed to be more of a story to follow rather than wondering who was going to get killed next. If you love Saw and you don't mind the gore, I suggest seeing the movie. You wont be disappointed. I'm not sure if Id give it 2 thumbs up but definitely one and a half.

Liars...how do they live with themselves?

If there is one thing that I cant stand, its a liar. Politicians lie to get your vote, companies lie about credit loans (or forget to tell you about hidden charges) to get your business, children lie to get their way or so they dont get in trouble, and lets not forget the person you love and trust the most, your partner. The reasons vary. They don't like confrontation, they don't want to get in trouble, they are selfish pigs and dont think about the repercussions of their actions. Why? And is it worth it? Do they think so little of the person they love that they're willing to risk it all? To me, it takes a real man or woman to stand up and tell the truth. Especially in circumstances where they know it may end their relationship, but do it anyway. We live in a world of selfish people. They do what they want to do no matter how much it may hurt the other person. However, if they don't get caught....then it makes it even easier the next time.

Ive always valued honesty. Some people say I'm brutally honest. If you ask me a question, I will answer it. Beware, it may not be what you want to hear. I wasn't always that way. As a teen, I did my fair share of telling "little white lies" to get what I wanted or to get out of trouble, but I grew out of that. My logic, it takes more energy to pull a lie off than it is to keep it going. My son was a master of this game. He could look at me straight in the eyes and lie thru his teeth without even a flutter. How do you get to that point? If you catch someone in a lie, how do you trust them again? "Honey, I'm sorry I cheated...it wont happen again?" REEEEEALLY?? And how do you know it wont happen again or if this is even the first time? I broke off an engagement because of lies. I refuse to go thru life questioning everything someone tells me. With the elections coming near, it triggered my feelings of dishonesty. I'm tired of hearing empty promises. Then, I thought about my past and what Ive gone thru. Yep, there is definitely an open wound here. The bottom line, if you are so self centered that all you think about is yourself and will lie to save your ass, don't let the door hit you in that same location as you're walking out of it. Comments?

TT #81

13 of my favorite candy I wont be eating for Halloween because of Nutrisystems

1. M&M’s both plain and peanut

2. Baby Ruth

3. Tootsie rolls

4. Butterfingers

5. Milky Ways

6. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

7. Big Hunks

8. Nestle Crunch Bars

9. Twix bars

10. 3 Musketeers

11. Mr. Goodbar

12. Junior Mints

13. 100 grand bars

Wordless Wednesday

I need one of these for work......

Senior Year

Its finally happened. My youngest son is officially a senior in high school. What Id like to know is, how are all parents supposed to afford this special time in your child's life? Before school even began, I needed $300 dollars for senior pictures. Here we are in month 2, and they are already sending home things for class rings, caps & gowns, and graduation announcements. By the way, did I mention the rings are over $400 dollars? I havent even opened the packet for caps, gowns, and announcements. Was it this expensive when I was in school? No way. I talked to my mother about it and she almost fell over when I told her the prices. What happened?

How are people living in today's society supposed to come up with that kind of money when its hard enough to fill your gas tank and put food on the table? Now, you are going to put a guilt trip on them too if they cant come up with the funds for all the senior specialities? I just think its out of control. I don't think a senior should go without because his/her parents cant afford it. Yes, a class ring is luxury but caps and gowns aren't. They are a necessity. Did you have to pay for yours? I will find a way to get my son all that he needs to make his last year in school special, I just think its terrible that not all kids will have the same opportunity. With all the money we pay in taxes, shouldn't there be an allowance for things like this?? Maybe not the ring but certainly the cap & gown. And why do pictures cost so much? Since when does posing a child and telling them to say CHEESE become a major expense? Does the film cost that much? I don't know, I'm asking. My son has a friend who's family doesn't have anything. He didn't get his senior pictures this year and I'm sure a class ring is out of the picture. It hurts my heart. I think these companies need to show a little more compassion rather than looking at the bottom line for everything. Yes, that probably isn't the way to have a successful business but I don't think any child should feel less important because their family cant afford it. OK...I will step off of my soap box now. My rants will do nothing but make me feel better. The bottom, life isn't fair and it never will be. I guess we need to learn to deal with it...right?

Is crying a sign of weakness?

Some people have the idea that crying is a sign of weakness. Especially in men. Whatever happened to compassion? I think a man that shows he is human by shedding a few tears is a good thing. It doesn't make you any less of a man, if anything, it let's women know that you care enough about them to drop your guard. Also, that you loved them enough to let them know you are hurting. Although, crying isn't always because you're sad. Heck, I cry when I'm happy or mad. Its something I personally cant control. Would I want too? Maybe..especially in the work place. I wonder if thats the reason more men are promoted? Companies believe that since a man shows no emotion, it means he can make more rational decisions. Right? It cant be because men are better than women at running companies. It shouldn't really even be a gender thing. I have worked for many men and women that do a terrible job in their position. Do men make better decisions?? Sometimes, depending on the time of the month for the women. Let's face it, when PMS is raging, we cant be held accountable for our decisions or our emotions.

Crying is a way of cleansing the soul. When you're sad, it makes you feel better. Even though it leaves your eyes too puffy for eye make-up. It seems that since Ive found out my son is going to Iraq, I cry at the drop of a hat. All I have to do is think about him leaving and I get choked up. Now he is there and I feel a little stronger. He calls me through the computer almost daily so I know he is OK. Should I try to control it? I guess there is a time and place for everything. Unfortunately, my heart and head have a mind of their own. People are pretty understanding about that but that doesn't make me weak. It makes me human, and most important, It means I'm a Mom that's worried about her child. Out of all the emotions we have, I think that laughing and crying are the best ways to not only express yourself, but to also make you feel better. So go ahead, grab a kleenex and have a good cry if your day totally sucked. Its good for you and in no way is it a sign of weakness. Everyone cries, thats why God created tear ducts. Right?

Love isnt easy

Anyone that tells you love is easy, has never truly been in love. Its a two way street filled with many hills and bumps. Sometimes it's smooth sailing, but usually not for very long. When you have two, not only different people but different genders, it makes it even harder. Well, I shouldn't really say that about the different genders because I have never been in love with a woman. Its not my cup of tea but I'm not against those who choose a different lifestyle. I'm just assuming that since women understand each other, it may be a little easier if you venture down that road rather than the one most traveled. Anyway, I'm getting off task. I think its funny that when you're young, you cant wait to fall in love? You spend your days dreaming of prince charming and the house with the white picket fence. You watch love stories on TV and read romance novels thinking that's what its really all about (wait, I still read romance novels and watch love stories). Its a woman thing.

Then comes the day that you were waiting for and you actually fall in love. Its always wonderful in the beginning. You do anything just to please your partner. You cant wait to spend every waking minute with them. It use to last 50 years, but that's not the "norm" these days. Heck, Hollywood roll models are having children out of wedlock left and right. What happened to marriage first? I think that when we discuss the birds and bees with our kids(where did they come up with that term anyway?), we should also mention that nothing good is easy. If you want something to last, you have to work for it and towards it. Are men really from Mars and women from Venus? Maybe, but that's what makes it fun and exciting. Not to mention, frustrating and irritating at times too. I guess you cant really explain love to anyone, its something you have to experience on your own. Right? Just take it one day at a time. No pain, no gain.

Another day, another pound...

As you know, I was chosen by Divorce360 to evaluate Nutrisystems. They bought my food, and I in return, blog daily about the experience. Since some of you are curious about the program, I thought Id send you a link to my daily posts so you can see for yourself. Click here if you want to see my progress, my thoughts, and what I think about the food. There are also 2 other people on with me. We all have different perspectives and ways of life. It might be interesting reading and its definitely a necessity if you have been considering going on Nutrisystems yourself. They have a direct link from Divorce 360. You can go on and check it out. By the way, after 2 days, I am down 3.2 pounds. I am giving this my all and cant wait to see the results. Wish me luck!!

TT #80

13 things a mother should teach her son

1. How to treat a woman.

2. How to be a good parent.

3. What dishsoap is for and how you use it.

4. Toilets dont get clean on their own, you have to scrub them.

5. How to cook.

6. Washing machines arent hard to use...just watch me.

7. You can reuse a cup more than once. Thats what water is for.

8. Changing the sheets on you bed is a good thing.

9. Always shower and brush your teeth. Women like that.

10. Its not always about you...learn to listen.

11. If you cant say something nice, dont say it at all.

12. If a girl says no, she means no.

13. A full trashcan should be emptied without someone telling you.

Wordless Wednesday

Get ready, they're coming.....

With Summer over and Fall finally here, that reminds us that the holidays are quickly approaching. For some, this is the best time of the year. If your freshly out of a relationship, its the season you are dreading. Holidays are about love, family, and friends. Even if you're not in a relationship, you can still enjoy the same things. My suggestion though, switch it up a bit. Don't do the same thing you did as a couple this year. Go someplace different. Decorate the house with a new theme. Put the Christmas tree in a better location. And if you just aren't feeling up to the parties and family gatherings, skip it this year. There is no law that says you NEED to do anything, especially if it brings you pain or sadness. Don't throw a pity party though but instead, do something to spoil yourself. Go out with your friends for a drink. If you would rather not go on the holiday, do it the weekend before or after. Take the questions about your break up with a grain of salt. Most people don't ask..some do. If you don't feel like answering, say so. The holidays weren't meant to be a punishment for the newly single, they are merely a remembrance of happiness, childhood memories,and holiday cheer. Try seeing a movie on Christmas day. Something that will make you laugh. If these are your first holidays single, it will get better. Time does heal all wounds. Maybe not completely, but it makes them much easier to bare. Embrace the people in your life and enjoy yourself. I speak this as the voice of experience. Its not the end of the world, just a chapter in your life. Have fun. You deserve it, right?

Military Mom with a son in Iraq

Have any of you seen this image but didnt know what it stood for? It means you have a loved one that is deployed. My son sent me a pin to wear and a bumperstick to put on my car while he is overseas in Iraq in support of him and our troops. I will wear this pin with pride. When you read this, please stop and say a prayer for Steven Woodall and his safe return to the states along with all of our soldiers.
Thank You.....

Nutrisystems

I am employed by Divorce 360. I blog for them and in return, they pay me for my expertise on divorce, dating, and being a single parent. Recently, we were asked if any of us wanted to lose weight and if we were willing to participate in what they had to offer. I quickly responded, "Heck Ya." Three of us were chosen to evaluate Nutrisystems. They are going to pay for a months worth of food, and we in return blog about it. What a concept! You watch all of the celebrities on TV singing the praises of Jenny Craig and Nutrisystems, but does it really work? I know alot of it is in their food, but also, its about portion sizes. I think you eat 6 times a day.

During the week, this will be a piece of cake, (mmmmmmmmm, cake) but on the weekends it will be a little tougher. Usually we don't eat breakfast until almost noon and our dinner at about 7. Trying to remember to not only eat 6 times a day, but to drink 8 glasses of water, may take a little adjusting. I have to admit, I considered doing this before but just wasnt sure if it was worth the money. My goal, to feel comfortable naked. Its a real mental thing with me. I never really had an issue before but I have found in the past couple of years, my self esteem isn't what it should be. I use to walk into a room and glow, now I try not to draw attention to myself. Of course, Ive never been the life of the party but I haven't been one to sit in the corner either. I want to feel good about who I am for ME. And no one else. This is a great opportunity and I would be a fool to pass it up. So, I will keep you all posted on my progress. My food should be here next week and then the fun begins. In the meantime, I'm going out for Mexican food and a farewell Cadillac Margarita. Its going to be a while before I see those things again. Wish me luck!!

Gay Marriage

Its clear in hearing both political sides debate about our countries future that they agree on one thing. They are against gay marriage. I don't get it. In some aspects, I guess in a perfect world a marriage would consist of a man and a women. However, what if you fall in love with someone that is the same gender as yourself? I don't understand, with all of the troubles we are dealing with now, why they feel the need to control the way a person feels. I'm heterosexual, always have been and always will be. In today's society though, we have all types of people. I believe banning something from one group of people because of their preference in gender is ridiculous. Don't we have enough going on in our lives to worry about rather than what constitutes a couple and whether they should share benefits? What gives us the right to dictate? I must confess, watching two gay people making out in public makes be feel a bit uncomfortable but so does watching a boy and girl. There is a time and place for everything.

In my opinion, people need to mind their own business unless is directly affects them or their family. These people are human just like everyone else. They are Doctors, Lawyers, School Teachers, Executives, and Policeman. Their ability to perform their duty is no different than anyone else. How does giving two people the right to marry really damaging the rest of us? It doesn't. Who determines whats right and wrong? We the people? Obviously they are not asking everyone, only the straight one's. Gay marriage is now legal in California but for how long? Will they overturn it again, and if so, what happens to the people that were legally married while they could? I'm not preaching that being gay is the way, I'm merely stating that we have much bigger issues to deal with than whether two people can legally spend the rest of their lives together. Freedom is something we are all privileged to have in this country. Why does it only pertain to the select few? Lets worry about our own problems and stop trying to control the way people live. Really, it's none of our business. I wouldn't want the government or anyone else telling me what to do. How do you think they feel?

Internet sex sites

I was cruising the Internet trying to find a way to get my creative juices flowing and I came across a site. Their slogan, "Get into bed with local singles horny for hot and wild sex. Join free." OK, does this really work? I know people surf the net for porn, usually men. And you have the different single sites that I have accidentally come across with shots of women and their private parts on display for all the world to see. I think to myself, Hmmmmmm, are you advertising yourself for Mr. Right or is this how you make a living? What happened to dating and the element of surprise? Heck, if a man contacts you because he has seen your vagina plastered all over the Internet, do you really think he is contacting you for a long term relationship? Although, maybe that's not what you're after.

Women don't need to display yourself for every pervert in the world to get laid. There are plenty of men out there just waiting for the opportunity to have sex and they dont even own a computer. What if someone you know (like your mother or father), came across an advertisement like that? How would you explain yourself? Then again, maybe girls like that don't need explanation. They obviously have low self esteem and feel the need to share their bodies for self gratification?? Self worth? Sex with a complete stranger just because? I dont know. And what kind of men answer these Ad's? Someone who is looking to get married? I don't think so. Im having problems understanding the concept. I'm all for online dating but parading yourself (and your vagina) for the world to see, to me, is nothing but cheap and tacky. The perverts of the world thank you, I'm sure. What if you actually do find a man this way, what do you tell your family and friends when they ask how you met? "Oh, I had my vagina displayed on the Internet and he answered my ad?" Yikes....girls, show a little respect for yourself. Is this really all you have to offer? Sad, very sad. Im suggesting some inner soul searching. It really isnt supposed to be like this....is it?

Wordless Wednesday

Women have strengths that amaze......

They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
But they hold happiness,
Love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
And laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take 'no' for an answer
When they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
And cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about A birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
Yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or email you
To show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give......

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE TINY FLAW IN WOMEN, IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.


Thank You Roni

Closet space

Ive come to the conclusion that its time to do some Spring cleaning in the Fall. When your clothes take up 2 closets, a rocking chair, and the backs of 3 doors, its time to downsize. Not to mention, everything you wear is on the outside of the closet, and the things you don't are on the inside. How did this happen? Every time I look inside my closet, it makes me tired. I know there are clothes in there I haven't worn in more than 5 years. I have 7 drawers filled to the rim. Most of the stuff in there, I don't wear either. When did I become such a pack rat? I know I'm not the only one that does this but I think mine is a bit extreme. I never get to the bottom of my personal clothes hamper because I would have no place to put the clean clothes. Of course, the last time I went thru my stuff, I ended up keeping more than half. You know what I mean ladies. Those things that you have second thoughts about throwing out. "I'm sure I will wear this again", "Oh, this is too cute to give away." There needs to be a stop to this madness. I haven't seen the back of my closet in 5 years. Shoes, I can throw out without thinking twice about. Clothes, on the other hand, take a little more effort. I know its going to take me a full 8 to 10 hours to start and finish this project. When will I ever find the time? And after its all said and done, how do I keep it from happening again? Are we as women destine to collect clothes like men collect tools? I promise, the first raining day of the season, that project will be on my list of things that need to get done. Of course, I live in California. It may be a while. Maybe I need to go to clothes collectors anonymous..."Hi, my name is Lori and I have separation issues with clothes I never wear. Please help me!"

Dealing with a terminally ill child as a single parent

I work for a hospice company. There are alot of things that go on in our office everyday. You don't really get use to it, I think you become numb. However, I heard something recently that broke my heart. We have a four year old girl on our service that was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The best prognosis for her is two months. Her mother is racked with concerns on a daily basis. Will she make this month’s rent or be kicked out of her apartment? Which bill collectors will call her today? Will her daughter live through the night? The thing that made this story hit home is that she is a single mother dealing with more issues and problems than any mother (or person for that matter) should every have to go thru in a lifetime. Shortly after Aisys’s father found out about her brain cancer, he left the family and hasn’t returned or paid child support since.

By working graveyard shifts as co-manager at a fast food restaurant, she's been able to hold on to her three-bedroom home until last month’s foreclosure. On Monday, she was fired. She also cares for her 80-year-old mother, a 3-year-old son, and 6-year-old daughter. How does someone cope with all of this on their own? Our company recently gave Aisys a party for her 4th birthday, but because of her tumor, she was unable to even smile. The local paper ran an article about her story and set up a foundation to help. I wonder if it will come in time? Alot of us face trials in our lives. Sometimes they pass quickly, other times it takes a while be we grow from the experience and become stronger. What would you do in her shoes? I heard the company she worked for fired her because she couldn't seem to leave her family problems at home. Gee, ya think? What kind of person would fire a single mother with a terminally ill child and be able to sleep at night? I believe the good Lord never gives you more than you can handle. He must think this woman has shoulders a mile wide to be able to withstand so much. As a single mother, thinking back at all of the things I have endured, it didn't even come close. They have set up a foundation to help. If any of you are interested in contributing, you can e-mail me and I will give you the foundation information thru Bank of America. Now, go hug your kids and be thankful for what you have. Remember, it could always be worse.

Women in politics

I'm a registered Republican and I have been disappointed with the way that Bush has been running this country for years. We definitely need a change. However, I'm not sure McCain choosing Sarah Palin as a running mate was the best choice. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying a woman wouldn't be good in the white house, I'm just wondering if his choice was the right one? I have heard her views on abortion and abstinence, and I don't agree. That opinion will get me in trouble with alot of people (I'm sure) but this is America and we value our freedom. If she cant teach her daughter abstinence, why does she think it will work with my son or our nation for that matter? If they overturn Roe vs. Wade, it will be a step back in time. Do we really want to have women going to back alley abortion clinics because they no longer have a choice? And haven't we been trying to teach our children abstinence for years?? Has it worked? No.

I don't think handing out condoms in school is a bad thing. I was open and honest with my boys and bought them condoms myself but not all kids have that option. I talked to them about sex and showed them how to put a condom on using a banana as a visual aide. I'm not saying go out and have sex, they are going to do it on their own. Didnt you? If they use condoms, we wont have to worry about abortions. Right? I'm saying have safe sex and give them the tools to do so. And another thing, what if something happens to McCain? Do we really want some young hottie running the country? She is a new mother with all kinds of emotions running thru her, I'm sure. I don't know if she is the answer to our problems. I have to be honest, I'm not happy with either political choice. Id really like an AWESOME candidate on the ballot who would pull this country out of the continuing problems it is facing now. The war in Iraq, the Stockmarket, Oil Prices. Can a woman do that? Maybe...but not one that is unrealistic. If you are running for President, you have to hear what ALL people want and not push your beliefs on anyone. What this country needs is a miracle and I dont see it happening anytime soon. Should women be in politics?? Absolutely!! Is she the right person for the job??? I definitely have my doubts. That being said, I do think she did a much better job at debating than her counterpart. Does that means she is more qualified or maybe she is just better at telling us what we want to here. We shall see.

TT #79

13 ways to fight the blues

1. Smile - Even if you dont feel like it. Doesnt it make you feel warm and fuzzy when someone does it to you?

2. Pay it forward - If someone does something nice for you, do something nice for someone else.

3. Listen to music - the kind that makes you want to get up and dance.

4. Watch a comedy - There is nothing better to get your mind off of whats making you sad than watching a funny movie.

5. Spend time in the garden - even if its pulling weeds. Its very therapeutic.

6. Go for a walk - get that blood pumping. It helps you feel better and relieves stress.

7. Have sex - Ya, you may not be in the mood but once you get started, its amazing how quickly that can change.

8. Read a book - There is nothing like losing yourself in a good book to take your mind off your worries.

9. Write - or, in my case, blog.

10. Call a friend - sometimes getting things off your chest is the best way to feel better.

11. Go shopping - that may not help your wallet but it will definitely change your attitude.

12. Treat yourself - go to the yogurt shop and put extra strawberries and chocolate on top. YUMMY!!

13. Spend time with your siblings - isnt it funny how the stories of growing up always make you laugh? Me and my sister do it all the time!