Shannon du Plessis
Shannon writes authentic well researched first person articles. She has been there, done that. Shannon writes about what interests her and hopes kindred spirits will enjoy her efforts.
After 20 years of putting her BBA in Finance to good use, Shannon escaped the corporate life after realizing being an employee is not for her.
She managed to both stay awake and win awards as a freelance technical writer for the next ten years, as she created online help, software user manuals, and hundreds of online learning courses.
Then she bought a camera. With Shannon's 50th birthday came the decision to spend the rest of her life writing for fun (trusting the profit will come) and focusing on her love of photography.
A full-time freelance writer, photographer, and native Texan, Shannon lives on 4.5 acres in the beautiful Texas Hill Country with her husband, three dogs, and three children who return to the nest to visit often.
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After 20 years of putting her BBA in Finance to good use, Shannon escaped the corporate life after realizing being an employee is not for her.
She managed to both stay awake and win awards as a freelance technical writer for the next ten years, as she created online help, software user manuals, and hundreds of online learning courses.
Then she bought a camera. With Shannon's 50th birthday came the decision to spend the rest of her life writing for fun (trusting the profit will come) and focusing on her love of photography.
A full-time freelance writer, photographer, and native Texan, Shannon lives on 4.5 acres in the beautiful Texas Hill Country with her husband, three dogs, and three children who return to the nest to visit often.
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- 239,935
- Content
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- Fans
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- Contributor since
- 8/1/2006
Education/Experience
University of Houston - BBA - FinanceInterests
Personal Finance, Fitness & Exercise, Cooking, Dieting & Weight Loss, Seniors, Parenting, Travel, Movies, Television, Shopping, Mental Health, Beauty, Pets, Home Decorating, Television, and TechnologyMotto
It is never too late to be what you were meant to be.
Displaying Results 1 - 115 (of 115) for All Content
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First Home Remodeling Project - Screening in the Front PorchWe reclaimed 400 square feet by enclosing our front porch. Here is what we did right and what we did wrong. -
How We Lowered Our Property Taxes and Saved $315 a YearWe recently refinanced our house and as a result of that process, we were able to lower our property taxes. Learn how we saved money on our property taxes. -
How I Stick to My Budget Using Quicken's Savings GoalsQuicken's savings goals aren't just for saving for a vacation or other purchase. Find out how I use them to keep my spending within budget. -
My 2013 Parenting ResolutionI'm still a parent even though my daughter just turned 20. My 2013 parenting resolution centers on getting out of the way so she can grow up.
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5 reasons we bought a home with acreageIf you are wondering if buying a home with acreage is right for you, consider these five benefits of owning a home with acreage. -
First person: Refinancing to boost college savings and prepare for retirement2012 was a good year to refinance a home. Learn how we held firm to get the low mortgage interest rate we wanted to refinance our home. We saved over $100 a month and and lowered our property taxes. -
The Artist's Way - a Spiritual Journey Toward CreativityIf you know you are a creative, artistic being, but have lost touch with that part of you, The Artist's Way can help you get your groove back! Take a chance at freedom and a more balance life! Yes, you deserve it and yes you can. -
Why You Overeat - the Unholy Trinity of Sugar, Fat, and Salt - and How to Stop OvereatingI've learned that three foods keep you coming back for more, whether you want to or not. This article will teach you why these foods are so tempting and how you can stop sabotaging your health and your goal of a slim waistline.
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Self-Acceptance at the Med SpaI left my free consultation at a med spa a little wiser, with my money still in my wallet, and feeling a lot better about myself. Check out how my experience can help you. -
Charlie Sheen in Not WinningIf you can stand a little more Charlie, I've got an interesting parallel for you, a Charlie Sheen timeline, Charlie Sheen's best quotes '" so far, and a conclusion with my concerns. -
Taking Seniors Out of the BoxIt's easy to dismiss seniors, but don't. This article will help you appreciate the fun to be had with seniors and help you relate to seniors as the people that they still are. -
Be Smart About Buying Texas Lottery Scratch OffsBefore you impulsively buy a Scratch Off ticket, do your homework to make sure you aren't buying a worthless ticket. -
NBC Puts Outlaw on HaitusNBC is setting up Outlaw to fail in another example of network greed the leads to canceling shows before they can get an audience.
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Scammers Getting Creative by Combining Craigslist Ads with EBayScammers are getting more creative. Not content to use one website to lure victims, they are now combining Craigslist ads with eBay to try to steal your personal information. -
Octomom Can't Pay Her BillsPoor Octomom - she can't meet her $10,000 a month living expenses and People and US magazine came to the rescue with coverage. Wouldn't it be nice if that energy were directed toward helping ordinary Americans?
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Wimberley's Corral Theater - First Run Movies Under the StarsFive dollar first run movies outdoors with dollar concessions (or bring your own, including alcohol) make the Corral Theater unique and a refreshing change from the overpriced chain movie theaters. A must-do if you are in Wimberley. -
What You Should Know Before You Undergo LAP-BAND SurgeryIf you are considering LAP-BAND surgery, benefit from firsthand experience as you read my interview with a courageous woman who chose to share her story.
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AMC's Rubicon is Painfully Slow to WatchThe buzz on Rubicon is that it is a welcome intelligent entry for TV viewers. But how long do we have to wait before something actually happens? -
Is Your Boyfriend the Antichrist?A humorous look at boyfriend types and whether to keep them or toss them. -
The Book Box Brings Bargain Books and Community to Pflugerville, TexasThe Book Box is so much more than a used bookstore. -
YouTube Viral Video Hall of Fame: Top Three Viral VideosYouTube much? You should - it's good for your mental health. Here are three videos that went viral to get you started.
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Memorial Day Events and Festivals Near Austin TexasLooking for Memorial Day activities in Austin Texas? Read on.
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Will an Asteroid Wipe Out the Earth?Our own planet is pissed off - count the number of earthquakes lately? Is the solar system mad too? Obama must have a reason behind wanting us to visit an asteroid by 2025.
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Understanding the Differences Between and the Similarities of the Episcopal and the Methodist ChurchThe author, daughter of an Episcopal priest and best friend to a lifelong Methodist, offers personal experience and research results into Methodist and Episcopal differences and similarities.
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The Best Consignment Shops in Austin TexasNeed clothes, furniture, accessories or jewelry? Austin Texas has you covered. This local Austinite narrows the list to the best three consignment stores in Austin Texas.
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Netflix for the Nintendo Wii Has Arrived: How to Save Money and Watch Unlimited MoviesWant to have your cake and eat it too? Here's how using Netflix can save you money.
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My 40-ish Face: My Two Makeup Must-HavesThe two most important makeup items for women in their 40s.
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The Best Burgers in Austin, Texas Come from Three Long-Standing Burger JointsI've been in Austin 25+ years and I know great burgers. If you want the best burger in Austin Texas, read on.
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Where to Watch the World Cup in Austin, TexasWatching the World Cup in the Austin area? I've got your short list of where to go for the best food, fun, and maximum number of TVs.
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Ricky Martin is Gay - Should it Matter?Plenty of people have "come out." Should that be news or will the day when it is not news spell equality?
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The Apple iPad: A Quick Guide to Help You Decide Whether or Not to BuyShould you buy an iPad now, later, or never? The decision is personal, but this list will help you make the right decision for you.
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Switch Sleep Positions to Improve Your Health and Reduce PainFeeling tired, irritable, or achy? Suffering from sleep apnea or back pain. It's amazing what a change in sleep position can do.
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Three Favorite Places for a Texas Weekend Mini-BreakIn Texas? Need a weekend break? This native Texan recommends three favorites: beach, relaxing/romantic, and weird.
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Where Did the Easter Bunny Come From?If your kids ask, "Where does the Easter Bunny come from?" do you have the answer? Read this short article so you will be in the know.
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Why the Closer's Brenda Leigh Johnson is My Favorite TV CharacterThe Closer's Brenda Leigh Johnson is smart, great at her job, and a mess at home. What's not to love? Read on and you may love her too.
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Tiger Woods and Jesse James Aren't the First - Famous Spouses Began Cheating Thousands of Years AgoGo ahead. Take a peek at some famous cheaters throughout history. Learn what happened to all of the involved parties. Here's your guilty pleasure - see if you know all of the scandals included in this comprehensive list.
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Need to Shoot Something? Try the Entertaining and Affordable Nintendo Wii Game, Cabela's Big Game HunterWant an incredibly fun, realistic, more grown up Wii game that your kids will also enjoy? Read on to find out why you should consider Cabela's Big Game Hunter for Wii. Did I mention it's affordable too?
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How President Obama's Landmark Health Care Bill Will Help Rather Than Hurt Our FamilyUse my experience to learn specifics about Obama's health care plan.
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How to Stop Annoying Automated Telephone CallsHate telemarketing calls and recorded messages? Here's how to stop them.
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Mel Gibson Eyes RetirementWill Mel Gibson retire? He's hinting that he might.
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The Shocking Truth About the Food We EatRead this article for some thought-provoking, and potentially stomach turning information about where our food comes from and what you can do to get healthier food.
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Do-It-Yourself Spring Manicure LooksLearn how to have natural looking gorgeous hands and nails without the expense of a professional manicure.
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A House for $469 - What It's Like to Have the Buying Power of a Movie StarAn entertaining look at why purchases we could never afford might be chump change to a movie star.
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How to Avoid U.S. Census ScamsRead this so you won't become a victim of census scamming. The article's tips are valid for other types of scams too.
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2010 Academy Awards: Here is the Scoop (not Gossip) on the Oscar Winners and the CeremonyNot just a dry article about Oscar winners - this informed article oozes entertaining facts and no gossip.
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Where to Find IRS Tax Forms and Tax Help in Austin, TexasSeveral branches of the Austin Public Library offer tax forms. Read this article to learn where to go and also where you can get help completing your tax return.
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Dealing with Post-Avatar DepressionSome people are getting depressed after seeing the movie Avatar. Even if you aren't one of them, this is an interesting read.
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Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day in the Austin Texas AreaFive unique, romantic Austin area restaurants plus a way to eat for less at two of them.
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What You Should Know About End Stage Colon CancerLearn the symptoms, diagnosis, treatments and prognosis for end stage colon cancer.
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Top 10 Political Scandals of the DecadePoliticians seemed especially entertaining this past decade. Here are ten of my favorite scandals.
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Understanding Porcelain VeneersIf you are considering getting a porcelain tooth veneer, read this article to understand what to expect and what conditions porcelain veneers can correct.
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Going to Hawaii? How to Spend a Week on the Big IslandWe spent the week of Thanksgiving on the Big Island. This article offers tips on what to see and do and insider information that can make your trip more enjoyable.
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Captain James CookThis is what a Hawaiian native told me about Captain Cook.
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Hawaiian Comfort Food: the Loco MocoIf you are in Hawaii, you'll find the loco moco in corner stores and in restaurants. You can have a taste of the islands at home - the loco moco is delicious and easy to make.
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Understanding COBRALost your job? Don't despair. You won't automatically lose your health and dental insurance thanks to COBRA, but it will cost you.
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Healthy Ways to Add Flavor to OatmealDon't kill the health benefits of oatmeal by adding butter and sugar. Try these alternatives.
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Most Anticipated Action Movies of 2010Start the new decade with an adrenalin rush. Here are eight action movies that look promising.
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Top 10 Scuba Diving DestinationsA an overview of the top 10 scuba diving destinations, from close to the U.S. to more exotic locations in faraway lands, with links to each for all the details.
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Michael Jackson: This is It, Isn't It?In death as in life, controversy still surrounds Michael Jackson. Get the scoop on This is It and use the links to see some amazing Michael Jackson videos.
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Creative Holiday Gifts for $10 (or Less)You don't have to be cheap to give creative, inexpensive holiday gifts. Here are ten suggestions tailored to the individual recipient.
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How to Lower Your Income Tax If You Are Self-EmployedThis series will address budgeting, savings, and investment strategies, debt reduction, record keeping and bookkeeping, and income tax considerations for the self-employed, although many of these principles will work for everyone. This is article 5 of 5.
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Proper Financial Record Keeping and BookkeepingThis series will address budgeting, savings, and investment strategies, debt reduction, record keeping and bookkeeping, and income tax considerations for the self-employed, although many of these principles will work for everyone. This is article 4 of 5.
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How to Reduce Your DebtThis series will address budgeting, savings, and investment strategies, debt reduction, record keeping and bookkeeping, and income tax considerations for the self-employed, although many of these principles will work for everyone. This is article 3 of 5.
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How to Save Money and Understand Investment OptionsManaging Money and Finances Series covers budgeting, savings and investment, debt reduction, record keeping/bookkeeping, and income tax issues for the self-employed, although most principles will work for everyone. This is article 2 of 5.
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How to Create a Personal BudgetManaging Money and Finances Series covers budgeting, savings and investment, debt reduction, record keeping/bookkeeping, and income tax issues for the self-employed, although most principles will work for everyone. This is article 1 of 5.
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Why You Should Never Lie to Your Child About Divorce or SeparationYou know the obvious, no badmouthing, no blaming the child. Read this article to about a far more heinous act from my personal experience.
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10 of the Most Dangerous and Harmful Ways to Lose Weight FastLosing weight is a noble goal, but don't try any of these dangerous methods. I give you a healthy alternative that worked for me at the end of my article.
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Hillary Clinton Has "Issues"Hillary Clinton's latest angry outburst proves she has unresolved issues. Imagine what would have happened if she had won her bid for president of the United States.
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Watching LilyMy entry into a contest where the first sentence is given to me and I create the story from there. I came up with a poignant tale of love, loss, and remembering. Hope you enjoy it.
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Keeping Your Teenager Accountable: The Home Behavior ContractLearn how home behavior contracts work to reduce arguments and give your teen clear guidance. Includes a sample home behavior contract.
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Swine Flu Pandemic Questions and AnswersGet answers to frequently asked questions about the swine flu.
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Sense and Sensibility: Not Your Ordinary Chick FlickI chose to review the movie Sense and Sensibility because it is a classic and offers drama, comedy, and some excellent advice on what is important in life.
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Facebook Changes the Rules: Your Content is No Longer YoursFacebook is a fine social networking tool, but beware - anything you post belongs to Facebook the minute you post it. If you don't want the whole world to know, don't post it on Facebook.
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Handling Bereavement and GriefAn examination of the grief process including the stages of grief, how adults handle grief, physical manifestations of grief, and how you can help children handle grief.
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Nine Reasons to Love Google ChromeGoogle Chrome may be a serious threat to Microsoft Windows - and that's their plan. Here is a first look at Google Chrome.
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Cruella De PalinAnti McCain/Palin limerick
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Mineral Makeup May Be Right for Your SkinWhile natural is better and less irritating to skin, mineral does not equal all natural. Make sure you read the labels to ensure you are not getting a lot of synthetic ingredients.
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Six Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures InvestigatedI researched six different non-invasive cosmetic procedures, tried four, and let you know the costs and benefits of each.
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Guide to the Costs and Benefits of MicrodermabrasionMicrodermabrasion is an affordable, low risk way to improve your complexion.
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An Unconventional Christmas Party Play ListAnyone can grab the classics - try these songs made unique either by the song itself or the artist.
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Estate Planning for the Self-Employed: A Helpful GuideSelf-employed? You need an estate plan.
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Affordable Fashion: Best Clothing Resale Shops in Austin, TexasHere's the list of where to find fashionable yet affordable clothing in Austin, Texas. I've been to each shop and I provide a list of where to shop, in order, with a cool lunch suggestion thrown in as a bonus.
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Sarah Palin: America's Next Top Vice-President?Ms. Palin isn't ready to lead simply because she "won't blink."
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Isometric Exercise Keeps Seniors Active & MobileLearn about why isometric exercise is safe and effective for seniors and follow these tips to get started.
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Songs for Your Halloween Background MusicPicking Halloween music is fun - you can go serious or silly. View my suggestions and follow links to listen to them too.
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Recipes for Crock Pot Dishes: Elegant in Their SimplicityStart these in the morning and come home to dinner. Here are three recipes - chicken, beef, and turkey.
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Beijing Olympics Recap and HighlightsThe highs, the lows, the controversies.
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Understanding Your Ayurvedic Body TypeLearn your Ayurvedic type, what your constitution looks like and the diet and exercise recommendations for balance.
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Naturally Unsafe: The Dangers of Herbal SupplementsYour guide to herbal remedies. Take care when using herbal supplements.
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Great Moments from Democratic National ConventionsA reminiscence of memorable moments from DNCs from 1980-2008.
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Disciplining the Bipolar ChildEvery parent of a bipolar child understands that effective discipline is often trial and error. It's okay to trust your gut and be a bit unconventional.
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How You Can Recognize Alcoholic DepressionThere is a particular depressions that accompanies alcohol abuse. Here are the symptoms to watch out for.
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Using Yoga to Decrease Depression and StressDepressed and stressed? Yoga is an excellent t therapy. Learn why yoga works and find out which postures battle depression and alleviate stress.
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Growing Poinsettias for ChristmasStart in September and have the "official" Christmas flower in full bloom in December.
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Understanding the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)More and more taxpayers are subject to the alternative minimum tax. Learn what it is, if you are at risk, and how to minimize your risk.
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Caring for Your Fruit Trees in the Winter: Suggestions for a Better Spring Fruit CropHelp your fruit trees become more fruitful.
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Heart and SoulDo you ever remember childhood victories or defeats? It's quite something to revisit these memories with the perspective of an adult. We get to know our own parents better as we become more like them. Thanks mom.
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How to Lower Your Property TaxesLearn ways to lower your property taxes and how to pay your property taxes.
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Pflugerville, Texas, Becoming CosmopolitanPflugerville set to triple by 2025.
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Forbes Names Austin, TX Drunkest CityAustinites' reactions varied, but none take it too seriously.
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Some People Are Not Marriage MaterialFrom the famous, Whom Not to Marry talk, here is the list of traits to watch out for if you are considering marriage.
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Why Isn't Mark Spitz Attending the Summer Olympics in Beijing?Mark Spitz wasn't invited to the Summer Olympics in Beijing. I explore one reason why.
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How to Find Healthier Fast FoodFast food options with the lowest combination of calories, fat, and sodium.
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Chantix Cure for Smoking Not Worth the Side EffectsI wanted to stop smoking and Chantix seemed like the perfect way to stop. It wasn't. I'll tell you what happened to me and share recent news about the dangers of Chantix.
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How to Insult with StyleCursing requires no imagination and has little style. Why not be a little more creative when you want to insult someone. Here are some examples to get you started.
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Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft - Tips from Frank AbagnaleHere are tips l learned during Frank Abagnale's (of Catch Me if You Can fame) talk in Austin, Texas.
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Muggles See Harry Potter Cast Get Hand/Feet/Wand Prints at Mann's Chinese TheaterWhile in California on a family vacation, we stumbled across the Harry Potter cast ceremony at Mann's Chinese Theater. Here is what we saw and how we got photos and autographs.
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St. Patrick's Day Events in Austin, TXLoud and rambunctious, quiet and romantic, authentically Irish venues or imitators - Austin has a celebration to match your St. Patrick's Day party style.
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Austin Texas Has Plenty of Fun and Free Activities for FamiliesThere is plenty to see and do for free every day in Austin. The yearly festivals - also free and fun for your family - are the icing on the cake.
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Best Budget Fine Dining in Austin TexasVentana offers a fine dining experience for less. Enjoy culinary delights in an uncrowded restaurant where the staff know proper service.
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Boston Legal for Star Trek Fans: It's Fun to Catch the Trek ReferencesBoston Legal links to Star Trek in several episodes.
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The Sinus Show - Two Hours of Non-Stop LaughterThe Sinus Show's comediains make fun of movies that are so bad they are good.
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There is No Such Thing as a Free CruiseEver offered a free cruise if you sit through a timeshare or other vacation package presentation? Here's the skinny on that "free" cruise.
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Why I Love Advanced Searchbar More Than Google ToolbarNo longer just pop up blockers and search enhancers, browser toolbars can be feature-rich and enhance your web experience. Advanced Searchbar sets the new standard for toolbars.
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What It's Really like to Get a DWI in Austin,TexasA just-the-facts article about DWI arrest and its aftermath in terms of money cost and time lost.