MMORPGs and Such!

I've been vaguely following the developments of one of the newer MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Roleplay Game) that is slated for a beta release in 2007

I'm talking about Star Trek Online. There's already a host of Star Trek Online fan sites that have cropped up that do a better job of reporting developments in the production of the game than I could ever hope to do. There's Star Trek Online.Net and the Star Trek Online Fan site, just to name a few of the major ones.

If you don't know what an MMO is, let me educate you with the help of this Wikipedia article on the topic. Or take a look at this Wikipedia article specifically discussing MMORPG gaming.

Star Trek Online is just starting to get through some of the basic looks of the game, as well as camera movement. Character designs and interactions, as well as the elaborate systems through which leveling and progress occur, have not even been touched yet, it seems.

But you cannot deny the initial beauty of the graphics - if these make it through to launch, I'd say there will be much in the way of eye candy for all.

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Home Remodeling the Smart Way

You want to increase the value of your home, but you're not sure which improvements will bring the best return on your remodeling dollar? Check out this article which details the smartest improvements to get the biggest bank your home improvement bucks.

Bathroom

Number one on the list? A mid-range bathroom improvement. Typically you can expect to more than get more money back by sprucing up the bathroom. Note the emphasis on "mid-range": putting a bunch of high-end improvements is likely to cost you more than you'll get back when it's time to sell.

Re-Siding

Another idea is re-siding your house. Curb appeal is everything when you go to sell your home, as it's the first thing potential buyers will see, both in person and through pictures, and if your old siding is looking worn-out it will definitely affect how much buyers are willing to pay for your home. You can go traditional, or you can invest in log home siding, which will make your home look great and appealing to a wider range of buyers.

Kitchen

Rounding out the list is a minor kitchen remodeling. Refacing cabinets can be a much more cost-effective way to add some zing to your kitchen than replacing them, and putting down a little better flooring can return more on your dollar than top-end coverings.

That being said, you're the one who knows your home the best. Maybe none of these make sense for you because you're already happy with the way your kitchen, bathroom and siding (if you have any) look. If you're looking to stay in your home, then convenience and your personal desires are more important than resale value. But if you're looking to sell, make sure you're not throwing away money doing remodeling that isn't going to pay for itself. Be sure to find a Chicago financial advisor before making any large purchases to make sure that you can financially afford your historical or modern home decor

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Finding Ways to Get Back In Shape

Weight Watchers - Strawberry Smoothie Bar (Photo credit: frozenfoodjournal)

I am so curious how other moms get back into shape after having a baby.  This is my second c-section and I must say it is so much harder this time.  I am also started feeding, so I am concerned about losing too quickly and causing a drop in supply.  Plus I am so hungry and exhausted all the time. Just the way my body responds I guess!

I am not one of those lucky ones who lose weight quickly after a baby.  I am in my thirties so it seems like losing weight is so much harder.  I know people who are fanatical about losing weight and do extreme things to lose weight.  I guess I don’t have the desire to not eat for days or energy to work out once everyone is asleep.  I eat pretty well but I am a sucker for sweets so I think that is my downfall.  I have considered Weight Watchers but I am not much of a point counter.  

Currently I am walking several times a week but I am at a standstill.  I have not been able to wake up and run in the mornings since I am still waking up several times a night with my infant.  Also, I have only been able to fit in the occasional workout during nap time because I reserve that time for showering, cleaning, laundry, or even blogging. Finding time is certainly the hardest thing at the moment!

So what have you other moms done to get back into shape post pregnancy?

Not sure where this post originally appeared. If you know, let me know!

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