Monday, April 20, 2009

SPRING CLEANING UNCOVERS TAX DEDUCTIONS!

It's a great time of year to clear the clutter in our homes and offices. Many items can be useful to others, especially now. Here is a guide with some helpful hints for recirculating and donating:



~ Most organizations can only use certain types of items - call or check the agency's website for a donation wish list.



~ Inquire as to whether an agency can pick up items or if they need to be dropped off at a certain location.



~ Ask for a receipt to claim a tax deduction.



Where to donate:



Big Brothers/Big Sisters http://www.bbbsmb.org/ 800-483-5503

Boomerangs http://www.aac.org/ 617-524-5120

Brookline Senior Center - gift cart items, used cell phones and iPods 617-730-2770

Coalition for the Homeless http://www.mahomeless.org/ 781-595-7570 x13

DVDs for Vets http://www.dvds4vets.org/

Goodwill/Morgan Memorial http://www.goodwillmass.org/ 617-445-1010

Got Books? http://www.gotbooks.com/ 978-327-7600

Rosie's Place http://www.rosies.org/ 617-442-9322

Salvation Army http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/ 800-958-7825

Second Step http://www.thesecondstep.org/ 617-965-3999

Solutions at Work http://www.solutionsatwork.org/ 617-576-0039



And another great resource for both giving and receiving: http://www.freecycle.org/





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DO YOU KNOW ANY STRESSED OUT OFFICE WORKERS? TREAT THEM TO MASSAGE GIFT CERTIFICATES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY (Wed. April 22nd)! Call me today to place your order - 617-738-8222

Saturday, April 4, 2009

LET'S SLEEP ON IT!

Many people are having sleeping problems these days -- are you one of them?

The vicious cycle of stress and sleeplessness is very hard on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When we don't get enough sleep, we are more likely to be forgetful, less productive, accident prone, short-tempered, and susceptible to illness. We all need to take special care of ourselves during periods of uncertainty. Here are some things that can encourage sound sleep, no matter what may be going on around us, so we can wake up with the energy to cope with whatever comes our way:

1. Although it may feel relaxing, drinking alcohol in the evening actually disrupts sleep cycles throughout the night. And, of course, caffeinated drinks are not sleep-inducing.

2. Vigorous exercise in the evening can boost energy levels, interfering with sleep. Try doing a session earlier in the day. Gentle stretching or yoga may help with relaxation before bed.

3. It is best to refrain from TV watching and computer use before bedtime, as the hormones released in response to the bright lights can keep you awake for hours afterwards.

4. Restful sleep requires a dark, quiet, and comfortable environment. Do what you can to make your bedroom feel like a safe and serene oasis.

5. Discuss with your doctor ongoing sleep concerns as well as any medications (including non-prescription) that you are taking. Sleep difficulties may be a symptom or cause of serious health problems. Some drugs and supplements interfere with sleep, and long-term use of over the counter sleep medications can produce significant side effects and medical issues.

6. Winding down for at least one half hour before bed with lowered activity in dim light can help. Also, brief periods of relaxation during your busy day will promote better rest at night.

DO YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOW TO RELAX AND SLEEP BETTER? MY EASY RELAXING MEDITATION CD CAN HELP!

You can learn to meditate with the step-by-step instructions on this CD and begin to experience relaxation in just a few minutes. Not connected to any specific spiritual tradition - 65 minutes, $20.00 per CD includes shipping and tax. ($25.00 outside of US)

Please send your name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, email, number of CD's requested, and check or money order to: Joan Hardy, 48 Dwight St. Suite 6, Brookline, MA 02446. Refunds available only for items that arrived in damaged condition. Please call me at 617-738-8222 with any questions.