RAM 5K & Park Time

<p>Hey everyone!! I sure hope you’re having a great weekend! </p> <p>For breakfast I had <strong>1 ff pancake w/strawberries</strong>, an <strong>egg</strong>, and a<strong> BAGEL THIN</strong> for a total of <strong>6 points</strong>. I was so excited yesterday when I found these at Sam’s Club, I couldn’t wait to try one out!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cSRfoI5QpFNYUedARwfSaZuyvz10rgJAowO4c-uo8W3hMgUF-kLetUf2K-W7ZV-ZUMDufpy75SclA6O4EY3fru4BYix-TLHRH17M1zpEQqS1EWKUkF9hETh6klJvGr3y5mdwz-Oi_f8G/s1600-h/DSC070143.jpg"><img alt="DSC07014" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oxssLbORfbqRq598lmPDQWVpT0oCcoxhNr7PFYbFH0cyrpUXpEyEWrIS_3Ma-CbN5AWHC620ZpQVX1Q7UJdkXw0CxEJOH2MNaPRwoil1h7CHEIi_HG85d4nIPvmBBtwr3QdomCigLU4H/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07014" width="404" /></a></p> <p>Kyle and I ran a<strong> 5K</strong> today. It was a benefit for <strong><u>Nolan</u></strong>, the son of one of my co-workers. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH__7w4o9Mw1iRBafLz2RolUxhCiIkZ9wNrRWA8zia11LbFCniOZXXYCY-mnBSHpdQNpx5Wj4Ig9RkPt1UrYjq4S_LA-xnVaKzwQpYOXyfeR1iQbCuRm6f3IZ6PxmXL2Ishfa6JKs1Hcy/s1600-h/DSC070173.jpg"><img alt="DSC07017" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HOlt9QiaKtKXy30YqgjHo4Uysm_XWTy1K9Guv882c8wisBVa73ZsFcrJ_AXQAYWltRhSf7Mie_K1xwTil9mdCn1aD69WXRD3c8bv1cLxs0TS8TJZKb5I5c2yyW0NQO6gKttNtgVPdGdO/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07017" width="404" /></a><strong>Nolan’s story:</strong></p> <p align="center"><em>Nolan was born a perfectly healthy little boy April 20^th, 2009.  On August 18^th, Nolan was at daycare and went down for his morning nap.  After Nolan stopped crying his babysitter went in to check on him and found that he had stopped breathing.  When the paramedics arrived Nolan was without a pulse.  Nolan was taken to the hospital where they were able to get a slight pulse after his brain went without oxygen for about 20 minutes.  He was then transferred to a children's hospital.  While at Children's Mercy Nolan was heavily sedated to control seizures and let his body rest.  Due to the lack of oxygen that Nolan’s brain suffered from the doctors said that Nolan will probably never be able to walk, talk, see, feed himself, or live a normal life.  Nolan was released from the hospital on the 6th of September.  At this time Nolan receives physical, occupational, visual and hearing therapy at home.  He also receives all food through a gastric feeding tube that was placed while in the hospital.</em></p> <p align="left"><strong><u>So sad!</u></strong> I can’t even imagine having a healthy baby for 6 months and then something tragic like that happens. We were happy to run and support him.</p> <p align="left">Kyle finished at 27:12 & my time was 28:38. We ran the first 2.5 miles together and Kyle went ahead the last .6. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3L59muaTyfoOwDTaQY4XDEDCL-dp08OGMdj3nnZfJE-iRP264WwzdczGvvXnwZ3qlG8TKZc4M-Btu27GihG-VehDi1iIqEtVCuzPlcTRlSnnNWXScYIev97tbXIXcoG-TdM-388yEU2SS/s1600-h/DSC070153.jpg"><img alt="DSC07015" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfg0GfAG2NDhm4PwWNjfTAc39pcA8c9RyS8nck0AmW4gbKcT7_BHEWC2u6x4xM6vs7ra-422NQiFVY2bbQlp-jXgw5s6lbxsZbsQ6Ui0f3cLlBAgQmlO-MWuS9ImTpX4cTlxhqJWNjaoTQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07015" width="404" /></a></p> <p align="left">  I grabbed a few <strong>grapes</strong> post race for <strong>1 point</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityZs69_ZV21FqciQ3MkZp6YttBL6vmK7rAS-D2oXNq8HBOviE0qFDrO4Zgfv9gibxk7IpgH6u5eQOO-8dlki5cxe_d7De2tlyXF26bgVfeoH59yMcPNX-1_yxW6n2fcSgBhn4U5alFAzD/s1600-h/DSC070163.jpg"><img alt="DSC07016" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcfGYK0pJCD9N4TkIcFb-C0_JYx8Qgk9E4boNW8T6Ijg-7iWzYdF74VDUvhL6F2zB-XEoY845YwLfXjWbTAP69JHPeab10x2twFdV-1K9fygUlZhoynsSYjl2RNhAs59lCRuW7ROhtavF/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07016" width="404" /></a></p> <p align="left">As soon as we got home I mixed up a<strong> protein smoothie</strong> for each of us. Mine ended up being too big, so I <strong><u>double fisted</u></strong> it! ;) I ended up though only able to drink just <strong>1 glass</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQGZnsNDQVjR1CPNV5Pxvia99dXBwyLUu7HTe8ehcwNbe7GRKkmLTQaSecUp27j43n0Z3G-_d084JC9lif65tuumu8t2EmpUGvBhTIKHk1qyUntwM39Fc5pUaxBG1fALDJ9tNGbTsbBgq/s1600-h/DSC070183.jpg"><img alt="DSC07018" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdDFUNVuNJkImqtWlr6qeo6HD7hoUqrKpgvaqPIA9YrUqxyK-Wf5oAs9FA8IuRXWdpQJvljCEIQ5dGnjVALjMNOQAkfzALr43IOz_f_HDWFHff4yTnAUj2FI1qaKncZC2_S60WGlCVkaN/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07018" width="404" /></a> In the blender:</p> <ul> <li> <div align="left">1 1/2c strawberries</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1/2 kiwi</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1/8c milk</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1 small banana</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1 scoop protein powder</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">Total – 4 1/2 points…my serving <strong>2 points</strong>. </div> </li> </ul> <p align="left">After a little relaxing we went to a local park with our neighbors. They boys <strong><em>loved</em></strong> to feed the animals…it was so cute!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RyOm_csJuidkWuKS7Yauq8Tgl5aZwNH6riy8xGDYETfIRmhvvyRpR4KooHnP1qWPVKKMwd2CdicJj7EWIh9sGG-zZO1SW_7VT5liRImTAAUSu3dAMzkozjwo7Tn7-HHfq_0K2zDNQu6X/s1600-h/DSC070193.jpg"><img alt="DSC07019" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWIUP6q3XnzixL76XyZDKcrI8mDd42ur4HtOnTavg1KG3AuVeP4OoPk6BGsQPSrL_qOFGhWplRx2vtzNICIaWD_dSJYSQCfNIahLt2JZY3QRnss3ktaaS_NRqsJF6pV4V8Nk5GFs-KH6O/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07019" width="404" /></a>  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpDdP0Agl20OAi49Ia23TUZ22lr_5N7GLb9XDxpAIdPYG1DEchVwMQ49eJXKUsk11SYNZCKXwitGXJ9Z7FdDiWWx_44AvFSe3FTywdVvfcI3yi7d4Ct4AteRwoPRZ8K5p70mc7D_ZHnic/s1600-h/DSC070213.jpg"><img alt="DSC07021" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnCUDenPKcm3GPzyWHoU7y7IFruIMDlXRowePVaBoY1FoGFtsVB0G-HBhYiNzMUA4h32_CNibxdZuZVLkHVYVKt9qurOj7w_CXLG2wtJzwis4b1Qn1j113jyPtyW3cXRh3Aq2qQRpEU5d6/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07021" width="404" /></a></p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="400" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFi1H0fB_94YUQAH3wDiTMbGwzzmImwUSFlotqe-_1QwTb4QMeRifyryF_3Yov5yM-NdO2t8Q3sKEL9WdmfWqQj8fxo_y5V6cv5QPbHdxk9hpOkz7aEPVOd2RIO2lqKLh2GwjLCvBASoh/s1600-h/DSC070233.jpg"><img alt="DSC07023" border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdC1INuoymlyLt9BgH2goPDb6m4eZW40JImX19vha4fHdszjf6K0IDcwrp-5iewAATN-ocbh8R8p4akudH3NjugtXX1zHAt-ctPw3M9fgXhvzQvwIyTpJxguHGQcYCsyY0R48PTPC0viU/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07023" width="203" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIR_1MAbDdr3hT-jl7Y7yY2zReiEJvOlS7YpTgCztzV5HX1umVs2rK0GrtIl5mgE9q20VQ4itPDAOzpxB2Khz2sxXohPULk8B1WwEtOcGdXWJDDYh6tA6sja-AHFCxJHkU0lcjDbI7qgUe/s1600-h/DSC070293.jpg"><img alt="DSC07029" border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZ3sj3XWVPTeofLrvVlU-6V1ROKLSXvSNdnmrlbXGt-DpQ11PTDwaEzQrjVtPEHoOcf7Dh5KNFO3mR1hnOvnwncngyiBofPu_6hKzubl6tFLU0YozkGZwz-SiTtjdOVkMtsV9q6IVGMDI/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07029" width="203" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p align="center">Kyle was the <u>king</u> of under-dogs!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ThUbH3GY75Ojl1dzEt0aezOJPK7ktI_vwAnY8wEAC7GwmGAiIZpRvxkrV2QeWn_OcouWdpRnnUhRgu60se5RQR2rYyNiXE6AMvBTSASqVuCHrAHtD7i07V2GLtCiC1ev2BXpYRbniSe3/s1600-h/DSC070324.jpg"><img alt="DSC07032" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCb0eovaG1PpCkbDHRpHPNZ103u8BO282EmQf0v3koxbFEj-uehtg6y50JImFWZuxkp2xeYJQ8xmNGj8X2Sg2E9fgmKPy8IEhLx8zsS9c5cm6Zm7J0Rlg4KHgULqxfEYXcs04DiKKvSqCY/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07032" width="404" /></a></p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="400" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrkS7ta2XhSrCeYwmfq3aR9UqAiDhVccbhsx_9JOC6FlefzZgg4aNlsTtOuifL-WY2L9PmZVLohG72s54G-vrFham5rM5ITC2XTADUNrPm09pE3HytU-pHlZXGSKLAI9XugSJCLTROW1i/s1600-h/DSC070333.jpg"><img alt="DSC07033" border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbHxjK2-sxT3bnLdiuJVCTrqLmoqOzXJXAmazqpJAOzugXdIpQqenI8RMR6Ya_YQ3ejGNigDjsKdZ-5JRwZZsLeDIGBWdskvUY90IDgvZzSGAFV4VSIubdP5X-RqIW2OuA268l0CJiP3U/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07033" width="203" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOa30Cp6SKkzIulAka1-18JLOIsKMkWPawEIQxuND6tC8LSD3rVEjUeXlULXcggajpzv-FTu86xJd6i0K4_9L9TvAXDt8vnYdlpO-GQsIJSNeMAcabLd2OPZ8cxrqMIvuqnBrplhlTqTis/s1600-h/DSC070373.jpg"><img alt="DSC07037" border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgth6qOByZFj4IwMyDaM4YiMMV3ZNPRN9MIiNlh3Ff9jtMm2H8DwfZAuu6s1-lNIv27agqf4jhyphenhyphenkcK5JhW3ootkC92ftxADbUUUpHjtHdKmsE4vGBQuam-20CiGduVFBbRzHNk-GIrbRHwD/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07037" width="203" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p align="center">Future 5k-er!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqywmz_YzdO18kbQhXJ3B6BbnMX9tSYaRpxga1zCxt-qrUlwke4_lpCovyBhWd7Qpn-X29G8r0yVGlQh7e4iT4f1DrgWJrEv2DbqCF8hX68g-iVvkbFtpHX1QTny6_2PuYjswKMGjhiGt/s1600-h/DSC070383.jpg"><img alt="DSC07038" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZeLOrM95caPsmWCaudSGqsOX9iVBj4NxjIfg7oL4mNKygyRzlt2lN0iVD7ZbIyuTkEh_6oYuERvpSW9gTCRRWJ20dUQYutUzyec_saDMiFp7q1c-PxUPDGKIudi8DKZYHascxB2H7pWQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07038" width="404" /></a></p> <p align="left">After our time at the park we picked up a pizza for supper. Sunday is Kyle’s cheat day and pizza is his <strong><em>favorite</em></strong>…so I gave in! I had this X2 for a total of <strong>15 points</strong>. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiheBBm37Sw4AmmKTFvmcQ9y-t5T0SAUHputMFsm_I6pVdzE1_yOmdNDg85TSsJbsg1Zo3ArLq6-PW5hEilsvDQPHJjHaN_A08k5TClXef7WWHZ7qUYFU6SE4tpLcmUEz7FTIAiozjTZSbV/s1600-h/DSC070403.jpg"><img alt="DSC07040" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-RmKDpUUvgTjyZ0WW8Vl4GBzJ3B15OunXefK4Tm6oSuS2zZy9whjaYF2dV1aOvPNP8nFQgYt_QVLUv2x7jYj5gYT6n3B_xyH5lZqMTLj87feKLPDnJssggbLIGKQ1VBPLWE7jTcwPgrm/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC07040" width="404" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>To finish off Kyle’s “cheat day” we needed some<strong> ice cream</strong>! Abby got to go along for the ride too!<strong>  </strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAALk-2mxrNR1bXKsuuU3BlLHAx6Z72JCMChkytWc7tWagZUoNWXfqEs7U7rSkF3jlYJQLRMCKjM5xLF3G-DJUMy6C7Vt7B3ChsbcxZhgXLlp8Kg6qRvDvzqSZTJE-Xz6KK1wDjMKgwC1/s1600-h/DSC07042%5B2%5D.jpg"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hX6AZ7Paf5Wa4G_XblgAWCrPFvRXJ0KvUmYpGbpNdqeBKiSUGUvc7mzuR_jL0KbUMB_kIR78NfGhiUB8bgV168aJgmP6zf1ga8xWwbtEDFfilv6igt_XIc8egLSV9aA-GvH34D0tbWfB/s1600-h/DSC07042%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC07042" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEuFls677FbZ9Jc0kzKrxBGgy6jthqHRLfOexnJfv76KL6QQJ6Zn0IKp0HoYOWUZ7u5vxyZMXtVC6GBMmx4lwwoamhrAj_rKo3kivF7HOazDt8x79OLhemI5pT33xZu3zZrdBvK3We9IE/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC07042" width="404" /></a></strong></a></p> <p>We went to a local ice cream “hot spot”,<strong><u> The</u> Dariette</strong>!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgeMh1DOnbbrIAXiWLclcxUHOXVrmIjEhodfnALrmYT3slCZ93iI6zankhAK9Bb65iiUQ0QhOhM7qLN6M2GpyvtY9eKk0B7qInHA_Ii9WbElpQ6CTIj7oSUruHXM8oJfjW0QmlDyw-G9hq/s1600-h/DSC07043%5B2%5D.jpg"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IqsFbflt0RWj6v82ZdfVF8La3qnTv4ljInR04H3i31gUx3swylgPIXPzkfRYTO8aeoSrByfYFfyXBKrElhYwoR2oNuZJaKX7KBqFA77kmmwMOg8C0XDG9mIYb4tEtzGSbCkIF_5b6Bqm/s1600-h/DSC07043%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC07043" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlm2azB5kASdKpV5E7aldmIwDt-0xLqWVQkcg6SfiE3wtwJnc9SuKPGq1GPtqCAQNNFTGw0TUrLxAEq2haBMaU_pIVZgLa_ytymgvbc3LbdqAaQzpgiwv3bRqL4xI0_vgu4OTgsgRaB3zR/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC07043" width="404" /></a></strong></a><strong></strong></p> <p>They are famous for their <strong>lemon ice cream</strong> and that is just what I go t! I love how Abby is eyeing my cone!! I am estimating my cone at<strong> 6 points</strong>. <strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89uCJfrCBeyf88o_uO8ROEhopKVc6mWK-ulWL4dT79TAP6eWCLJ_mwmsWQwbK9NiJuf_ZS1sCaxkZJPr6-0-JzJP89BnDBMVMZwj1_ukzkwOWf00GBUmUeoiD1MQyvM5-wAaHK0KrYU3t/s1600-h/DSC07044%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC07044" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrAqEFAqsDRBh2ImHi_72wAL0rlOECGl2er_lQvb_zcTEt-kALTX03AEIRejLWrBSueD3veNzCnkMoMnj4B6R6majhG0wpWAy6c75EsHWFIw8IYrqCr4V1rUG_HlAylj0Kjm0xXNANpOU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC07044" width="354" /></a></strong></p> <p>It’s been great weekend! I’m off to enjoy the rest of it with my man!</p> <p><strong>SUNDAY’S STATS</strong></p> <p>POINTS = 30/23 <br />WEEKLY ALLOWANCE POINTS = 20 used/15 remaining <br />ACTIVITY POINTS EARNED =   4 today/21 week <br />WATER = 64 oz <br />EXERCISE = 5K run</p>

RAM 5K & Park Time

Hey everyone!! I sure hope you’re having a great weekend! For breakfast I had 1 ff pancake w/strawberries, an egg, and a BAGEL THIN for a total of 6 points. I was so excited yesterday when I found these at Sam’s Club, I couldn’t wait to try one out…

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My weigh-in and my best weight loss advice

<div style="text-align: left;">First the weigh-in:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Weight April 10:  168.8</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><br /></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Weight April 17:  164.8</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><br /></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Loss for the week:  -4.0</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><br /></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Total loss:  -74.6</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I credit the success of last week to one thing:: NO ADDED SUGAR </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's been six weeks since I've eaten a Weight Watcher ice cream bar or anything with added sugar. Removing sugar from my diet has completely changed my life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know this won't work for everyone because:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">a.) not everyone is addicted to sugar.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">b.) for those people that are truly addicted to sugar, you might not be willing to give it up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you have a problem with binging and eating massive amounts of food at one sitting, if you love sweets, and candy, cookies, cake and ice cream are your trigger foods, then you probably have a problem with sugar. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you want to become normal and live a life free of that insatiable desire for more sugar and more food, then I strongly suggest you start right now and ban added sugar from your life. It's in everything so it takes a little work to eliminate it from your diet, but it's not that difficult.</div><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Start by reading the labels on everything. I was shocked by some of the places I found sugar hiding. Remember my frozen bell peppers that had corn syrup in them?! Weight Watchers products are some of the worst offenders for hiding added sugar in what they promote as a "healthy" snack. Read the ingredients on their snack bars. Several of their products list the first ingredient as sugar, sand the second ingredient as corn syrup. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For me, eating things with added sugar brings on strong, almost uncontrollable, insatiable cravings. Sometimes I had the willpower to fight it, most often I would cave in and eat the entire box of whatever it was I thought I could eat just one. There were times when I ate an entire two-pound box of See's chocolates, or a box of six Weight Watcher ice cream bars, or an entire cake in one sitting (yes, I did this). Even as little as six weeks ago I bought a package of six dark chocolate 100-calories bars at Trader Joes. I know better. I ate the entire box in my car before I even got home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's when I realized I had a problem. That's when my weight, on March 2, reached 181.2 pounds (from my low of 154 last summer). I was freaked out, depressed, and realized I was less that twenty pounds from the 200-pound mark. Fortunately, I realized drastic times required drastic measures. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'd just finished reading The End of Overeating and Change Your Brain Change Your Life. Both books talk about sugar and how some people (not all) have problems with sugar. This also includes fructose, the sugar in fruits. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I recently read an article regarding fruit. Although it's really good for us, with necessary vitamins and minerals, too much of it isn't good for us. When eating five to seven fruits and vegetables a day, it really should be five to seven <em><strong>vegetables</strong></em> and fruits a day. We should be eating more vegetables than fruit (I was doing the opposite). I've gone from five fruits a day to two or three maximum.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm not sure which book recommended this, but it's old advice that I've recently incorporated into my daily life. My snacks are always a complete snack. For example, I try to never eat just a piece of fruit. I always add some protein. A few almonds, an ounce of turkey, a small piece of cheese, some Greek yogurt. Something to make me feel satisfied. Never just a carb, but always a carb and a protein.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My night time binges have practically stopped. Sometimes if it's late and I'm truly really hungry I'll have a Greek yogurt and a tangerine, or something similar. Usually around three Points. Then I floss and brush my teeth (again, which annoys me and usually will stop me in the first place). This has been recommended by many people, but now it's a habit for me. Once my teeth are clean, it puts up a red light in my head. No more food. I'm done for the day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>A word about artificial sweeteners</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes, I eat artificial sweeteners. I've tried everything. Stevia, Agave syrup, Truvia, Xylitol, Splenda. I always come back to the Splenda. It has the fewest calories (zero) and the least offensive taste. I'd rather not eat it, but I can't eat things like Greek yogurt without some sort of sweetener. I can't afford the added calories of honey and maple syrup. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I figure at this point in my life, a few more chemicals in my body aren't really going to matter. Perhaps if I was twenty I could get more into the clean eating routine. Let's face it, I'm 54. I've probably eaten enough chemicals in my life to kill a laboratory full of lab mice. A little Splenda in my diet over the next 20 or so years I have left is probably not going to kill me. I usually only eat one packet, sometimes two, a day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Picture</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sorry, no picture of my hair. I'm not liking it very much, and I'm going through a phase where I don't like how I look. Maybe it's because my hair is too blond, or maybe it's because I'm almost 55 and the wrinkles seem to be jumping out at me when I look in the mirror. Whatever it is, I'm sure it'll pass. I'm just not feeling photogenic and not in the mood to have my picture taken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>About my lack of posting</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I can't believe I let a whole week go by and didn't post. I'm not sure what happened or why. I started several posts, but just didn't publish them. My goal this week is to post every day. Even a short post just to let every know I'm still alive and more determined than ever to get to goal (by my 55th birthday in 16 weeks!).</div>

My weigh-in and my best weight loss advice

First the weigh-in:Weight April 10:  168.8Weight April 17:  164.8Loss for the week:  -4.0Total loss:  -74.6I credit the success of last week to one thing:: NO ADDED SUGAR It's been six weeks since I've eaten a Weight Watcher ice cream bar or anything…

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Fastest Growing Jobs in Health Care

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/k7/ar5f36g6rhc5rc8tybk7.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/k7/ar5f36g6rhc5rc8tybk7.gif" wt="true" /></a></div><br />In the two years since the economy began its downward slide, health care has been one of the few industries that continued to rise. Because we're living longer than ever and the baby boomers are aging, demand for health care is growing.<br /><br />Understandably, many people think of health care as all about doctors and nurses. After all, when you go to the hospital or have your annual check-up, your interaction is usually with a nurse and then a doctor. All the lab tests and other work are done behind the scenes, so these positions get overlooked. The health care industry will continue to grow in the coming decade and the jobs won't just be in the operating room, though many will.<br /><br />According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these 11 jobs in health care will see growth in the coming years. Here are the jobs, their expected growth in the next decade, education requirements and annual mean salary*:<br /><br />1. Physician assistants perform many of the same tasks of a physician -- such as treating injuries and supervising medical assistants -- but are under a physician's supervision at all times.<br />2008-2018 increase: 41.3 percent<br />Education: College degree and relevant experience<br />Salary: $81,610<br /><br />2. Medical secretaries perform administrative duties in health-care facilities and rely on their knowledge of medical terminology and procedures.<br />2008-2018 increase: 27 percent<br />Education: Varies, but college degrees are increasingly common requirements<br />Salary: $30,800<br /><br />3. Physicians and surgeons treat patients for existing medical conditions and also advise them on preventative care. Surgeons concentrate on operations rather than the non-surgical approaches of physicians.<br />2008-2018 increase: 26 percent<br />Education: Medical degrees, residencies and licenses<br />Salary: Surgeons - $206,770, general internists - $176,740<br /><br />4. Registered nurses address some health problems of patients as well as collect and maintain their medical records.<br />2008-2018 increase: 23.4 percent<br />Education: Varies between college degrees requirements and certification, depending on state and employer<br />Salary: $65,130<br /><br />5. Counselors work in various health-care facilities to help clients overcome physical or mental health obstacles they are encountering. <br />2008-2018 increase: 22.6 percent<br />Education: Varies by state and facility, but college degree and certification are typical<br />Salary: Mental health - $40,270, rehabilitation - $34,600, substance abuse and behavioral disorder - $39,670<br /><br />6. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses provide care for injured or ill patients in health-care facilities and private homes.<br />2008-2018 increase: 21.9 percent<br />Education: Nursing license from an accredited school or institution, other requirements vary by state<br />Salary: $40,110<br /><br />7. Billing and posting clerks and machine operators assess the cost of a patient's health care, draw up the bill and send it to them. <br />2008-2018 increase: 19.7 percent<br />Education: Varies by institution, but a high school diploma and basic computer skills are common<br />Salary: $32,120<br /><br />8. Social workers provide emotional and mental support to patients who have substance abuse problems or suffer from medical ailments.<br />2008-2018 increase: 19.5 percent<br />Education: Bachelor's degrees and often advanced degrees are required, in addition to state-mandated licenses and certifications<br />Salary: Medical and public health - $47,560, mental health and substance abuse - $39,630<br /><br />9. Receptionists and information clerks work in health-care facilities and address customer or patient questions or concerns and direct them to the appropriate department or personnel.<br />2008-2018 increase: 16.1 percent<br />Education: Minimum requirement of high school diploma, although some employers require more education or relevant experience<br />Salary: $25,400<br /><br />10. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work in medical laboratories to perform tests that help diagnose, treat or prevent illnesses.<br />2008-2018 increase: 14 percent<br />Education: Technologists need a bachelor's degree in a related subject and technicians need an associate degree<br />Salary: Technologists - $54,050, technicians - $44,310<br /><br />11. Pharmacists dispense medicine to patients based on the diagnoses and prescriptions of physicians and other medical professionals.<br />2008-2018 increase: 14 percent<br />Education: A Doctor of Pharmacy degree and license<br />Salary: $104,260<br /><br />*All information based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.<br />By Anthony Balderrama writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/abalderrama<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&username=rockfordlink"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="125" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=rockfordlink" type="text/javascript"></script>

Fastest Growing Jobs in Health Care

In the two years since the economy began its downward slide, health care has been one of the few industries that continued to rise. Because we're living longer than ever and the baby boomers are aging, demand for health care is growing.Understandably…

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Available Jobs, Not Enough Skilled Workers

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/87/ar5l6qn6r744vgvxls87.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/87/ar5l6qn6r744vgvxls87.gif" wt="true" /></a></div>Two years after the start of the recession, the unemployment rate is still near double digits, which translates to millions of Americans looking for work. For every open job, employers have dozens or even hundreds of applicants eager to get hired. Yet many employers insist that finding qualified candidates is difficult, even in this economy. How can that be?<br /><br />These employers don't have a shortage of applicants -- they have a shortage of qualified applicants. For most positions, the necessary skills, experience and education requirements are firm and can't be loosened because of a lack of suitable candidates. Bad economy or not, employers need to know their workers are the best possible people for the job.<br /><br />A good worker is hard to find<br />"These jobs were difficult to fill prior to the economic downturn," says Julian L. Alssid, executive director of the Workforce Strategy Center in New York. "Hopefully, they will be less difficult to fill as we move more toward a more demand-driven work-force development system in the U.S. This means local employers working directly with community colleges, trade schools and other post-secondary institutions that help people gain skills that are in demand by employers."<br /><br />Education is an invaluable asset for any applicant, but as many job seekers can attest, it isn't the only prerequisite for employment. When employers are choosing the right candidate for their organizations, they want to see years of experience and an education that isn't outdated. As you can imagine, any worker who falls at extreme ends of the spectrum -- such as a new graduate or an industry veteran -- can be at a disadvantage. New graduates know the latest research and technology, but they don't have the years of firsthand experience that employers value.<br /><br />"We do hear employers complain that younger workers fresh out of school often lack a practical understanding of how to apply what they have learned in their classrooms to the workplace," Alssid says. "That said, we have heard from several experienced workers that they feel they are losing out on jobs to younger -- less costly -- candidates."<br /><br />Education matters<br />Don't mistake a need for experience as a reason to dismiss education. The problem is that job seekers have to take responsibility for their education because many employers no longer have the time and budget to groom new hires.<br /><br />"Employers seem to be less willing to invest in training in this economy. Again, it is the combination of the right credential and practical experience they look for," Alssid says.<br /><br />Take the initiative to improve your credentials so employers see a candidate they're ready to hire now.<br /><br />"Many job seekers can make themselves more competitive by getting industry-recognized credentials that are valued in today's workplace," Alssid says. "In many cases, that might mean a short-term certificate, not another college or graduate degree."<br /><br />But many employers are ready to hire.<br />"We hear about the skills shortage from industries including health care, advanced manufacturing, IT and energy," Alssid says. Although no specific job title is in constant need, any positions relying on math and technical expertise are consistently difficult to fill. "I have heard from several advanced manufacturers that they would hire engineers and engineering technicians in a heartbeat."<br /><br />Supporting his assessment is the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which expects biomedical engineers and network systems and data communications analysts to be the fastest-growing occupations between 2008 and 2018. As a result, job seekers who are applying to these fields and who have the qualifications need to put their experience and skills front and center. In the cover letter, résumé and interview, don't let hiring managers forget that you already have the skills they need. After all, you are just one job seeker in a competitive market; show employers that you're different from the rest.<br /><br />By Anthony Balderrama writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/abalderrama.<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&username=rockfordlink"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="125" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=rockfordlink" type="text/javascript"></script>

Available Jobs, Not Enough Skilled Workers

Two years after the start of the recession, the unemployment rate is still near double digits, which translates to millions of Americans looking for work. For every open job, employers have dozens or even hundreds of applicants eager to get hired. Ye…

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Today's 20 Fastest-Growing Occupations

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/6k/ar5l4mk71xlcz9htwb6k.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/6k/ar5l4mk71xlcz9htwb6k.gif" wt="true" /></a></div>For the past two years, as job growth has gone from nonexistent to lackluster, workers and job seekers have been waiting to hear good news. Job seekers on all fronts want good news. Unemployed job seekers need to pay the bills and get back in the work force. Employed job hunters want to get out of dead-end jobs and earn competitive salaries. College students on the verge of graduating are eager to embark on a career and use the education they accumulated over the past four years.<br /><br />The job seeker situation can be summarized in one word: frustrating.<br /><br />The economy is recovering, but the recovery is slow. If you're in need of a new job, it's too slow. You can't wait several years until things are back to their pre-recession levels. Fortunately, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has identified 20 jobs that are expected to grow rapidly between now and 2018. These occupations are in high demand now and are expected to continue on this trajectory for the next decade.<br /><br />Here are the 20 fastest-growing occupations between 2008 and 2018*:<br /><br />1. Biomedical engineers<br />Percent change: 72 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 11,600<br />Annual median salary: $77,400<br />Why they're growing: As the population ages, demand for new health-care equipment designed by biomedical engineers will increase.<br /><br />2. Network systems and data communications analysts<br />Percent change: 53 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 155,800<br />Annual median salary: $71,100<br />Why they're growing: Companies will continue to upgrade technology (such as networks) and will need to expand their IT workforce.<br /><br />3. Home health aides<br />Percent change: 50 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 460,900<br />Annual median salary: $20,460<br />Why they're growing: As the population gets older and lives longer, home health aides will see a rise in demand.<br /><br />4. Personal and home care aides<br />Percent change: 46 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 375,800<br />Annual median salary: $19,180<br />Why they're growing: The aging population will require more medical attention, often at home rather than in medical facilities.<br /><br />5. Financial examiners<br />Percent change: 41 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 11,100<br />Annual median salary: $70,930<br />Why they're growing: Financial institutions are under increasing watch by the government and will continue to be for the next decade, which provides many new opportunities for financial examiners.<br /><br />6. Medical scientists, except epidemiologists<br />Percent change: 40 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 44,200<br />Annual median salary: $72,590<br />Why they're growing: Advances in biotechnology have created new opportunities for medical scientists over the past two decades and are on track to continue.<br /><br />7. Physician assistants<br />Percent change: 39 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 29,200<br />Annual median salary: $81,230<br />Why they're growing: Health-care facilities will use physician assistants to ease some responsibilities from physicians who are being given heavier workloads.<br /><br />8. Skin care specialists<br />Percent change: 38 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 14,700<br />Annual median salary: $28,730<br />Why they're growing: Spas and other cosmetic centers are expanding at a fast pace and skin care specialists are some of their most in-demand employees.<br /><br />9. Biochemists and biophysicists<br />Percent change: 37 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 8,700<br />Annual median salary: $82,840<br />Why they're growing: Continued advances in biotechnology create opportunities for new research and development careers.<br /><br />10. Athletic trainers<br />Percent change: 37 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 6,000<br />Annual median salary: $39,640<br />Why they're growing: As Americans focus on preventative health care and organizations support these efforts, athletic trainers will see an increase in responsibilities and job opportunities.<br /><br />11. Physical therapist aides<br />Percent change: 36<br />Number of new jobs: 16,700<br />Annual median salary: $23,760<br />Why they're growing: In general, all physical therapy services will be in higher demand, and the need for aides will rise along with them.<br /><br />12. Dental hygienists<br />Percent change: 36 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 62,900<br />Annual median salary: $66,570<br />Why they're growing: Due to the aging population and an increased emphasis on health care, dental health services will create more opportunities for dental hygienists.<br /><br />13. Veterinary technologists and technicians<br />Percent change: 36 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 28,500<br />Annual median salary: $28,900<br />Why they're growing: The need for technologists and technicians will outpace qualified candidates who are graduating from institutions, creating an increased demand.<br /><br />14. Dental assistants<br />Percent change: 36 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 105,600<br />Annual median salary: 32,380<br />Why they're growing: Due to an aging population and better preventative dental care habits for adults and children, dental assistants will see rapid growth in the coming decade.<br /><br />15. Computer software engineers, applications<br />Percent change: 34 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 175,100<br />Annual median salary: $85,430<br />Why they're growing: Advances in technology and a continued reliance on computer networks ensure organizations of all industries will need software engineers.<br /><br />16. Medical assistants<br />Percent change: 34 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 163,900<br />Annual median salary: $28,300<br />Why they're growing: Medical assistants will increasingly assume some health-care provider roles in order to alleviate the increasing demands of physicians.<br /><br />17. Physical therapist assistants<br />Percent change: 33 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 21,200<br />Annual median salary: $46,140<br />Why they're growing: As the population ages, many people will turn to physical therapy for an increased quality of life.<br /><br />18. Veterinarians<br />Percent change: 33 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 19,700<br />Annual median salary: $79,050<br />Why they're growing: Pet owners are willing to spend more money for the health and well being of their pets, thereby putting veterinarians in high demand.<br /><br />19. Self-enrichment education teachers<br />Percent change: 32 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 81,300<br />Annual median salary: 35,720<br />Why they're growing: The types of coursework offered in this field are expected to broaden and create new positions for teachers.<br /><br />20. Compliance officers, except agriculture, construction, health and safety, and transportation<br />Percent change: 31 percent<br />Number of new jobs: 80,800<br />Annual median salary: $48,890<br />Why they're growing: Compliance officers are one of the fastest growing occupations due to tighter restrictions and more scrutiny on financial institutions.<br /><br />*Growth rates and salary information for all occupations based on data from the BLS.<br /><br />Bing: Which states have the highest minimum wage?<br />Bing: Great jobs that don't require a degree<br /><br />By Anthony Balderrama writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/abalderrama.<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&username=rockfordlink"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="125" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=rockfordlink" type="text/javascript"></script>

Today's 20 Fastest-Growing Occupations

For the past two years, as job growth has gone from nonexistent to lackluster, workers and job seekers have been waiting to hear good news. Job seekers on all fronts want good news. Unemployed job seekers need to pay the bills and get back in the wor…

Read more »