The perfect match: What makes a good employer?

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="cbmsnArticleImage" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" src="http://emj.cbdr.com/artieimages/wn/ar5l1dc63t2zgn2nyxwn.gif?time=12/19/2011%203:10:15%20pm" /></div><br /><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;"><b><span id="cbArticle_lblByLine">Kaitlin Madden, CareerBuilder Writer</span></b><br /><br /></div><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;">Job seekers hear a lot about the skills and qualities that employers want from </div><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;">their potentialemployees. They're looking for someone with a killer work ethic, technological expertise, leadership potential, a sense of humor, great<a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/communication/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">communication</a> skills -- it seems like the list could go on forever.</div><div class="ArticleContent" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;"><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b><span id="cbArticle_lblByLine">Kaitlin Madden, CareerBuilder Writer</span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Job seekers hear a lot about the skills and qualities that employers want from their potentialemployees. They're looking for someone with a killer work ethic, technological expertise, leadership potential, a sense of humor, great<a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/communication/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">communication</a> skills -- it seems like the list could go on forever. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">But what about the qualities that job seekers should look for in potential employers? What should applicants seek in the companies to which they are applying? Though it can sometimes seem as if job searching is all about what the employer wants, it's essential for job seekers to know what they're looking for in a company, too.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Below are a few things all job seekers should consider when evaluating potential employers.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Work environment</b><br />On paper, a job may seem great -- good salary, comprehensive benefits, impressive title -- but it's important to think about how working for a certain company or at a certain job will align with your personality and interests. Often, it's your fit with the company and job -- not your salary or title -- that will determine true happiness at work.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">"Many of the career changers I have counseled have, after a thorough self-assessment, become attuned to the kinds of working conditions that make them truly happy and fulfilled," says Cheryl Heisler, <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/president/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">president</a> and founder of Lawternatives, a <a href="http://www.bing.com/search?q=career+coaching&src=IE-SearchBox&FORM=msns07" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">career coaching</a> service for <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/laywers/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">lawyers</a> exploring career changes. "In exchange for achieving that kind of 'psychic benefit' from their work, these folks are often willing to make substantial compromises in other areas of traditional compensation such as salary or benefits, perks or fancy offices, to bring their work and their personal morés into balance."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Accepting a job offer without considering how you'll fit into a company's work environment can mean misery down the line. For example, "A culture clash might arise between a collaborative working parent trying to achieve that elusive work-life balance in a culture that values hard-driving competition," Heisler says.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Co-workers</b><br />Like your work environment, your co-workers can play a big part in how happy you will be at a job. "Liking the people with whom you work and sharing at least some of the same values is more than a mere nicety," Heisler says. "It takes a great deal of effort to be a square peg in a round hole; if much of your efforts are going into trying desperately to fit the mold, you will have that much less to give to your work product."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Your co-workers don't have to become your best friends, but naturally fitting in with the people you work with every day will go a long way in ensuring your happiness -- and effectiveness -- at work.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Company values</b><br />During the application process, job seekers should try to get a feel for the company's reputation. What does the company value? Have people had positive experiences working with -- and for -- the company? Are there any complaints against the company on Yelp or with the Better Business Bureau? If the company has a reputation for being dishonest or deceitful, job seekers should take this into consideration before proceeding with their application.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">"No employee should ever have to compromise their values for a job," says Bethany Myers, career<a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/consultant/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">consultant</a> and owner of career coaching firm BLM Consulting. "For example, I value honesty and integrity. If a company is in the practice of cutting corners, bending rules or just outright breaking laws, then they are not right for me."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Growth potential</b><br />While many of us evaluate job offers based on short-term factors (Is the initial salary higher? Will I have a better title?), it's also important to consider the long-term growth potential you'll have with an employer.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">"Being able to grow with a company is a big plus for anyone who is building a career," Myers says.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">To find out if there's potential for a promotion at a company you're interviewing with, Myers suggests bringing up the subject during the interview process, which can be as simple as asking "What growth opportunities exist for this position?" Just be sure not to make your personal growth the focus of the interview, or it may appear as if you're disregarding the position at hand.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Job security</b><br />If there's one thing that the recession has taught us, it's the value of job security.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">"There isn't a feeling worse than uncertainty, and especially uncertainty surrounding your job," Myers says. "Knowing that you have a stable position within an organization not only is comforting, but it also is in the employer's best interest because it will eliminate that fear that tends to stifle a worker from being productive. If that looming dark cloud of, 'When will my job end?' isn't hanging over your head, you can focus on what you have been hired to do versus worrying if you should find a new job."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Leadership</b><br />Having a mentor or manager you can look up to will help you adapt to and grow in a role at a new company.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">"This is a valuable tool that is often overlooked," Myers says. "When an employee has a mentor within the organization, it works for everyone. This is the best way to mold new employees and re-energize seasoned ones. It's also a great opportunity for higher-ups to ensure a superstar employee doesn't fall through the cracks. It's a win-win in my book."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">So remember, although it may not always seem like it, a job search is a two-way street. Hold potential companies to the same high standards they've set for you, and you'll assure that your next position is a perfect match.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><i>Kaitlin Madden is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, </i><a href="http://www.theworkbuzz.com/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><i>The Work Buzz</i></a><i>. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow @Careerbuilder on Twitter</i></div></div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />

The perfect match: What makes a good employer?

Kaitlin Madden, CareerBuilder Writer Job seekers hear a lot about the skills and qualities that employers want from  their potentialemployee...

Read more »

gold metallic glow

C'mon ride the train. Woo Hoo. The gold train. Sorry, I'll stop. But I'm seeing it everywhere, and I'm joining in the fun.<br /><br />I've seen several people use the new metallic spray paint from Rust-oleum recently, but after I saw <a href="http://pawleysislandposh.blogspot.com/2012/02/diy-gold-table-part-2.html" target="_blank">Julia's table over at Pawleys Island Posh</a> I knew I had to give it a try.<br /><br />Enter this sad little shade.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpocoxzl3X2raAKlK4t-nP22KHvEzSA-keZmsBHro5L7TMcvq4sEGlXnSiJd4BhxW2UVGQBnz_Lse5qE6Lwsoy9MGn5ccReLiki1ScY_NcIs-jPzJ4z4NF3goAN2CE5V85sFIjnsXHdgg/s1600/P2103723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpocoxzl3X2raAKlK4t-nP22KHvEzSA-keZmsBHro5L7TMcvq4sEGlXnSiJd4BhxW2UVGQBnz_Lse5qE6Lwsoy9MGn5ccReLiki1ScY_NcIs-jPzJ4z4NF3goAN2CE5V85sFIjnsXHdgg/s640/P2103723.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I picked up this piece of damaged goods, along with its brother Darrel and its other brother Darrel, at a high school rummage sale (remember these Becca?). I have a feeling that the owner of these shades work up that morning and thought, 'Crap! I was supposed to bring something for the rummage sale!' And then proceeded to go down into her basement and pick up the first thing she found.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkUPM0zyFL_ySXJoNgljxGXk5sHIJkurxtEIzu4i_eW5XC7QytunUglTo-okooEOmagZGoLfP3ILS-SFDbbPeaeTjhacyDSROzvS5ryOQlA-GOQm56Cc-nFuGfDd7bFRxNzpIHgxYHzYS/s1600/P2103730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkUPM0zyFL_ySXJoNgljxGXk5sHIJkurxtEIzu4i_eW5XC7QytunUglTo-okooEOmagZGoLfP3ILS-SFDbbPeaeTjhacyDSROzvS5ryOQlA-GOQm56Cc-nFuGfDd7bFRxNzpIHgxYHzYS/s640/P2103730.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />Although the outside is a nice black satin-ish type fabric, the inside is paper. Paper that has suffered some type of water damage. (not a statement you often make about a lamp shade)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMECN0W6P8tTEfSvKvyQKL55JD2Iz5cboGqpUEW4xgwfvTfF_vBdo0qX50O7zJ8vfYItmU8fwRLj8aDg1VyGmCpTCeBIvxU_l_ruKkG49WPKd-S1j4lBzkk8hjZHs8Q3BTAyFX1rhT0rQp/s1600/P2103744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMECN0W6P8tTEfSvKvyQKL55JD2Iz5cboGqpUEW4xgwfvTfF_vBdo0qX50O7zJ8vfYItmU8fwRLj8aDg1VyGmCpTCeBIvxU_l_ruKkG49WPKd-S1j4lBzkk8hjZHs8Q3BTAyFX1rhT0rQp/s640/P2103744.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />Who in their right mind would buy these things? That would be me.<br /><br />Luckily I only paid $2 for all 3. Since they were already in such poor condition and they were just gathering dust in my basement, I figured why not spray some gold up in here!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTC8HMOOy6kWqPlpLjKz5R6b1nHkkxUKRZCGxAuRBTBkNshu6ARCSr3K7PWUlmHozQCfKHGLu3PywWM32wb4Bu6XbHc4VYWdaoFzcaFmZmz5FBEurlqeQBfmtv4QURt6V3hbxvfv8DtQh/s1600/P2103747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTC8HMOOy6kWqPlpLjKz5R6b1nHkkxUKRZCGxAuRBTBkNshu6ARCSr3K7PWUlmHozQCfKHGLu3PywWM32wb4Bu6XbHc4VYWdaoFzcaFmZmz5FBEurlqeQBfmtv4QURt6V3hbxvfv8DtQh/s640/P2103747.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>I was thinking moody, library lampshade. Man smoking a pipe in the corner in a big leather chair type lampshade. Like this.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7oUUkUjHAwo2Fds0ua-iVP9nYC8DYoU8zQCDShA1J1tiEFybajMESrKcoZQY1aTkZuOOoc1VlGdBg-fypiOnGXfsh-ictIOvAIRpeGcOMzzjK4hQNMnfPcXoHVrRihAfIizoIDb_xypq/s1600/4b.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7oUUkUjHAwo2Fds0ua-iVP9nYC8DYoU8zQCDShA1J1tiEFybajMESrKcoZQY1aTkZuOOoc1VlGdBg-fypiOnGXfsh-ictIOvAIRpeGcOMzzjK4hQNMnfPcXoHVrRihAfIizoIDb_xypq/s400/4b.jpeg" width="337" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://www.sfgirlbybay.com/2010/03/17/belly-up-to-the-bar/" target="_blank">SFGirlByBay.com</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Or this.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyKTaWRnjvDdlfrsjzEC9ydStCu-TnLK6IK9mIDPxz9MrwGHEj_kanZ5PdHGuOIz0vgTMSEUTefeF7PPRqwD2x-UpbbMiQbaYK4Kh3T7WRrs7dmU_uiYVHC3U21FwPjlr5AvlBYYfVm1N/s1600/160088961723667431.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyKTaWRnjvDdlfrsjzEC9ydStCu-TnLK6IK9mIDPxz9MrwGHEj_kanZ5PdHGuOIz0vgTMSEUTefeF7PPRqwD2x-UpbbMiQbaYK4Kh3T7WRrs7dmU_uiYVHC3U21FwPjlr5AvlBYYfVm1N/s400/160088961723667431.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/6896205649269364/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />And I'm happy to report...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjR3wGVSJDYRQALqiYsy4EkXnwrE5TnipiAIN9UZMM55AzpR8yS8JxoheIjU_6X2nhmPurgktd1NewCS52rRxGHAthi9I-Zn9EjM78HbQR019JzzWOKS9VnLEbV1vsvnnZD-fOL__Z_jN9/s1600/P2103760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjR3wGVSJDYRQALqiYsy4EkXnwrE5TnipiAIN9UZMM55AzpR8yS8JxoheIjU_6X2nhmPurgktd1NewCS52rRxGHAthi9I-Zn9EjM78HbQR019JzzWOKS9VnLEbV1vsvnnZD-fOL__Z_jN9/s400/P2103760.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />these suckers look good! 100% improvement.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEufnSDh5nLVoWmZfYCV6c8KdSXbYfB0dGOgm3sz7j44H2dObI9sNptehay7jze78_rJKi3iu_h7SI4Lp-tIPYGkH7qP9nUnbuNgEfYpdNNboXucwSFMpxfLnX_NiFOsb674qNRjxt31S/s1600/P2103759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEufnSDh5nLVoWmZfYCV6c8KdSXbYfB0dGOgm3sz7j44H2dObI9sNptehay7jze78_rJKi3iu_h7SI4Lp-tIPYGkH7qP9nUnbuNgEfYpdNNboXucwSFMpxfLnX_NiFOsb674qNRjxt31S/s400/P2103759.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />They still have a few little dents here and there, but you can't tell (unless you are taking close up pictures of them). And you've got to give these guys a break. They were obviously involved in some sort of flood that had left them for dead.<br /><br />I'm loving the glow they cast.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TpS7VK1t0iL2qiUEcJtOqkWezq78mB40SjognuZ7UlVBwEOogs80A6gL-UZlV6r45bX-zLHCSdzp8kiBzAMgiIv_fuy8YnGGFZfAHInRDepPeYgtJi7bxu28Q7hK5Z5oeQd3pkEt2eBS/s1600/P2103767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TpS7VK1t0iL2qiUEcJtOqkWezq78mB40SjognuZ7UlVBwEOogs80A6gL-UZlV6r45bX-zLHCSdzp8kiBzAMgiIv_fuy8YnGGFZfAHInRDepPeYgtJi7bxu28Q7hK5Z5oeQd3pkEt2eBS/s400/P2103767.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />So pretty. Saucy really. I feel like I need some candles and wine.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhte3Cp3aMwTpEXnU340FQv1rFVlZSxqYDi4Kf6IJuWfb4NG-vyySw2-7ck2ifQmtRvLtEdtHtoIRZaLLIOa4bP3zooLWxIBbKIDMsimY58qAzOhveT4kQ0_0QW2QKgziLMa1Zlc5pstaZP/s1600/P2103772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhte3Cp3aMwTpEXnU340FQv1rFVlZSxqYDi4Kf6IJuWfb4NG-vyySw2-7ck2ifQmtRvLtEdtHtoIRZaLLIOa4bP3zooLWxIBbKIDMsimY58qAzOhveT4kQ0_0QW2QKgziLMa1Zlc5pstaZP/s400/P2103772.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />I'm in love. Especially after only spending under $10 for the whole thing - shades and paint. I think they will live in my entryway. I'll spend some time this weekend styling these bad boys up.<br /><br />But I'm not so sure they should go on these silver lamps. What do you think?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNenrgsqINifR2MNxVvJGCu4MgGNZWDM8b5B6h58lkhCyY7P9BahQ_RxreIE5Z14kYyWGZ6lI2HtQ3__vvYok9o00KPahSW7lpkzRKEVbReLbkC-m4WNP1IAalK0cCUNN6eqXdw6sF4QF/s1600/P2103776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNenrgsqINifR2MNxVvJGCu4MgGNZWDM8b5B6h58lkhCyY7P9BahQ_RxreIE5Z14kYyWGZ6lI2HtQ3__vvYok9o00KPahSW7lpkzRKEVbReLbkC-m4WNP1IAalK0cCUNN6eqXdw6sF4QF/s640/P2103776.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />Should I paint the lamps too? (trust me, they aren't precious) I don't want blow my $10 margin with some crazy expensive lamps. Maybe Goodwill? Any ideas?<br /><br />In other news, I'm staring at an electrician's crack as I <strike>speak</strike> type so we can finally wrap up this living room project. So what do you think? Do I have more gold painting in my future?<br /><br /><i>Linking up to <a href="http://emilyaclark.blogspot.com/2013/03/working-with-what-you-have-link-up.html" target="_blank">Emily Clark's Working With What You Have</a>. </i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZrFkG7XxGEXhm5g_gq-zyYxi6u10Rh8UcexOCOO41cy5Q86JTm39YXxNW2APBMrM2LVk6y5ZcrwqylyvxinJifhXGon8ZgvuQ-SyWrnzBFKh6R4KSGYoWKkPMPd3MOXB1Cdbp2qKzmfe/s1600/WWWYHbutton6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZrFkG7XxGEXhm5g_gq-zyYxi6u10Rh8UcexOCOO41cy5Q86JTm39YXxNW2APBMrM2LVk6y5ZcrwqylyvxinJifhXGon8ZgvuQ-SyWrnzBFKh6R4KSGYoWKkPMPd3MOXB1Cdbp2qKzmfe/s320/WWWYHbutton6.png" width="223" /></a></div><br />

gold metallic glow

C'mon ride the train. Woo Hoo. The gold train. Sorry, I'll stop. But I'm seeing it everywhere, and I'm joining in the fun. I...

Read more »

CONTROL: WHAT YOU DO TO FEEL BETTER ABOUT YOURSELF.

One of the funniest things we do as humans is try to control things, especially controlling how we are perceived by others. We follow an idea of how something should be and we try to force the idea within ourselves and others. A perfect example of this is clothing.<br /><br />Observe how jeans have changed in the last thirty years. It starts with an artist who designs a shape, a color, or a logo. Then there is judgment of anything other than that. The people who want to control others to feel better about themselves are the most critical and in order to perceive themselves as higher in a pecking order of value, they judge others who don't wear the trend. Then followers who are defined by how their clothes are judged, follow the opinion of the most critical, again, to avoid judgment and to feel more valuable. As the fear of judgment and fear of being less valuable in the eyes of others continues as a ripple affect, the overall dress code changes. From bell bottoms to straight leg, to skinny jeans, back to bell bottoms, and again skinny jeans, and etc.<br /><br />Recognize this cycle with music, make-up, careers, cars, religious rules, the house you live in and where it's located, the wrist-watch you wear, the purse you carry, how you do your hair, etc. Notice how you control your children, so that they are also perceived as more valuable to others, so that you are perceived more valuable to others. Do you force your daughter to wear her hair in a way she doesn't like, just so that you don't feel like a "bad" mother? Do you make your children wear certain clothes so that they are perceived as better? Have you changed their personality to match what you think makes a better person, in your opinion?<br /><br />The most critical controls of values are religion, politics, money, and looks. We perceive our value by the what the most addicted, judgmental, and opinionated people vocalize. It's the extremists that teach fear, who judge, who reject and abandon, who hate, and who have the smallest sense of worth that is defined by hierarchy, control, and the manipulation of others. <br /><br />If that critical person was your parents, your spouse, and is now you, you probably have an addiction and you're probably miserable with life. You constantly judge others, fear others, hate others, and can't figure out why life is so awful.  Do you really believe that by following rules that you are a better person and that people will like you better? If someone likes you better because you follow their rules, judgment, and change yourself to avoid their criticism, aren't you now a slave to their opinion? Does that opinion define you as a person? <br /><br />Are you dictating someone to change who they are to make you feel better about yourself, to meet your insecure demands? Did your parents do this to you and are you continuing to do this to your children and other people? Is your addiction what you control because you don't want to hurt another person like other people hurt you? Did they abuse you because they made it your job to make them feel better about themselves, similar to how you use your addition of choice to make you feel better? <br /><br />The problem is the false definitions of value that others enforce with their piercing judgment and criticism. Their criticism comes from their own insecurity, and the more insecure someone is the more judgmental they get. By judging you and trying to change your rules of value to theirs, you're less likely to judge in return and much easier to control.  Eventually, we are all the same (like robots) and we're all safe from judgment! But if we are all the same, how would we know who is more valuable or higher in the pecking order of value?<br /><br />Judgment requires there be a reference point of value so we'd have to continually change what defines a person better than another. That's why people who need to be highest on the pecking order change what is acceptable, or make the rules more strict. This is how we get extremests, fundamentalists, and people who are dangerous to others and justify abuse-- even to children.<br /><br />So people get meaner, things get more expensive, rules get stricter, people get more critical, and you never feel at peace with what exists because someone out there is always looking down at you like a puny little spec of nothing. But that large need to look down on others is only a reflection of how small they feel inside.  And in reality, you needing them to tell you what to do, and their need to control who and what you are is all in the same: fear of no value and resulting rejection.<br /><br />But without fear of outside opinion of value, we are still the same. Without judgment one persons value isn't more or less than another persons. And the truth is, we all have undescribable and unique value, and not one person has more value than another. But when we seek our value from the opinion of others, we are trying to define that uniqueness and attempting to create a control of it, and that is where everything gets out of balance. As soon as you give someone the power to define your value, you are now a slave to their opinion and if they use that power to feel better about themselves, the pendulum swing begins. This is an "every action has an equal or opposite reaction" situation. <br /><br />If your self-worth is developed from what is real and without outward definition, then no-one has the control or power to take away or give to your value with their opinion. With that you can love others unconditionally, the same as you love yourself unconditionally.  The pendulum balances in the middle and what exists just exists and you accept what is and nothing becomes nothing and you become something. That something exists without control.

CONTROL: WHAT YOU DO TO FEEL BETTER ABOUT YOURSELF.

One of the funniest things we do as humans is try to control things, especially controlling how we are perceived by others. We follow an ide...

Read more »

A Conversation with God

Hey all - switching things up a little today on TBW.  When I read this from a friend's Facebook page, I nearly cried.... because right now this is really speaking to me and I thought you could benefit by reading it too.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">***********************************</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Me: God, can I ask you a question?<br /><br />God: Sure<br /><br />Me: Promise u won't get mad<br />...<br />God: I promise<br /><br />Me: Why did u let so much stuff happen to me today?<br /><br />God: What do u mean?<br /><br />Me: Well, I woke up late<br /><br />God: Yes<br /><br />Me: My car took forever to start<br /><br />God: Okay<br /><br />Me: at lunch they made my sandwich wrong & I had to wait<br /><br />God:Huummm<br /><br />Me: On the way home, my phone went DEAD, just as I picked up a call<br /><br />God: All right<br /><br />Me: And on top of it all off, when I got home ~I just want to soak my feet in my new foot massager & relax. BUT it wouldn't work!!! Nothing went right today! Why did you do that?<br /><br />God: Let me see, the Death Angel was at your bed this morning & I had to send one of the other angels to battle him for your life. I let you sleep through that<br /><br />Me (humbled): OH<br /><br />GOD: I didn't let your car start because there was a drunk driver on your route that would have hit you if you were on the road.<br /><br />Me: (ashamed)<br /><br />God: The first person who made your sandwich today was sick & I didn't want you to catch what they have, I knew you couldn't afford to miss work.<br /><br />Me (embarrassed):Ok<br /><br />God: Your phone went dead bcuz the person that was calling was going to give false witness about what you said on that call, I didn't even let you talk to them so you would be covered.<br /><br />Me (softly): I see God<br /><br />God: Oh and that foot massager, it had a shortage that was going to throw out all of the power in your house tonight. I didn't think you wanted to be in the dark.<br /><br />Me: I'm sorry God<br /><br />God: Don't be sorry, just learn to trust me.....in all things , the good & the bad.<br /><br />Me: I will trust you<br /><br />God: And don't doubt that my plan for your day is always better than your plan.<br /><br />Me: I won't God. And let me just tell you God, thank you for everything today.<br /><br />God: You're welcome child. It was just another day being your God and I love looking after my children...<br /></div>

Miscellaneous A Conversation with God

Hey all - switching things up a little today on TBW.  When I read this from a friend's Facebook page, I nearly cried.... because right n...

Read more »

Join our webinar session of past winners at 5pm today!

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />This afternoon we have another webinar of three past finalists or winners in the South African Partners in Learning forum. Please log in as a guest and join us if you can: <a href="http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/previouswinners4/">http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/previouswinners4/</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Ngaka Ralekoala from Bloemfontein</b></span><br />We have Ngaka Ralekoala who worked in a team of four in a project about vulnerable children. In this project l<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">earners from participating schools received training in ethics and research methodology and then conducted research in their local community to determine the needs of vulnerable children.  Through this project, learners have been given the opportunity to collaborate with other schools, the University of the Free State as well as experts in the field of Social Action research from the De </span><span style="color: black;">Montford</span><span style="color: black;"> University in the United Kingdom via the Internet. </span></span><br /><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlKke9SSq4IlK8q6yoeoikC9tpKxMiRaICwOtsUr7b8A1DtFhqaFzdMSBnfzd1fN2tPmiFV1epYVZxht6ECbPveDk00_Whr1JI8KYtXmMB1lGU_YWQP7HWFRiCtu3g4l6a26-xNUQgaM/s1600/Children+who+care-Ngaka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlKke9SSq4IlK8q6yoeoikC9tpKxMiRaICwOtsUr7b8A1DtFhqaFzdMSBnfzd1fN2tPmiFV1epYVZxht6ECbPveDk00_Whr1JI8KYtXmMB1lGU_YWQP7HWFRiCtu3g4l6a26-xNUQgaM/s400/Children+who+care-Ngaka.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Charli Wiggil from Eden College in Durban</b></span><br /><div style="direction: ltr; language: en-ZA; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; mso-line-break-override: none; punctuation-wrap: hanging; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;"> We also have Charli Wiggil from Durban who did a project around the world cup in South Africa called ‘Tweenzites’. In t<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">his grade 10 Life Orientation project involved learners identifying a contemporary problem in their community and exploring it using various technological tools (Intel Thinking with Technology, GPRS, cell phones, Microsoft Office Applications etc). Learners were then challenged to devise strategies to address the problem that they identified and these were presented to local community and government leaders, community members, educators and learners from other schools. It is hoped that the municipality might implement some of the suggestions through their Department Planning Programme. One of the groups developed a DVD to be used in Life Skills by other schools.</span></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUg3_baFVkmUKm7dHmPjdaoMxKsMKaf2h_U6MLHibVtuvGlFImLT7x8n7JyAek3Jx4rld9ExSi6-YoTlqM9U86habdmtcr1p7ZoVrb7K_qx-Eh3PjiKR3uL0WS4TcuXopj0K_DLcoU9E/s1600/Charli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUg3_baFVkmUKm7dHmPjdaoMxKsMKaf2h_U6MLHibVtuvGlFImLT7x8n7JyAek3Jx4rld9ExSi6-YoTlqM9U86habdmtcr1p7ZoVrb7K_qx-Eh3PjiKR3uL0WS4TcuXopj0K_DLcoU9E/s400/Charli.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Glen Williams from Sunridge Primary in Port Elizabeth</b></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"> The third teacher is Glen Williams who did a project which he calls ‘Silent Morals’ around a particular IT programme called Scratch.Glen says " <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">Well</span><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"> , m</span><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline;">y grade 6 learners had to USE what they learnt in basic programming, EXPLORE, and CREATE an ANIMATED SILENT MOVIE which DEPICTS a MORAL VALUE or LESSON.You will see that I start AND end this presentation with the word FUN, because I believe that education must be ENGAGING in a FUN way. </span><span style="color: black;">Projects</span><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline;"> allow learners the FREEDOM to EXPERIMENT with what they already learnt in a STRUCTURED way AND forces them to EXPLORE things which they haven’t learnt yet, without RELYING on a teacher."</span></span></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2Im1wqvWq6jEusiZsLyBhUl8Y7IEGP3T_SpRe63C-F4rr0uwajsio2KeCVKmEpBSBKTLCn_e5zQaC7semIKpjxaAnL-VdFt7UJkXUILceTvlYB_8d3DWi2pQ-REmFCfYVt-mwuPI8AM/s1600/Silent+Morals+-+Glen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2Im1wqvWq6jEusiZsLyBhUl8Y7IEGP3T_SpRe63C-F4rr0uwajsio2KeCVKmEpBSBKTLCn_e5zQaC7semIKpjxaAnL-VdFt7UJkXUILceTvlYB_8d3DWi2pQ-REmFCfYVt-mwuPI8AM/s400/Silent+Morals+-+Glen.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left; unicode-bidi: embed;"><br /></div><br />This all makes for some interesting listening this evening. If you can’t make it the recording will be placed on the wiki tomorrow. (<a href="http://partnersinlearningforum-sa.wikispaces.com/View+webinar+recordings">http://partnersinlearningforum-sa.wikispaces.com/View+webinar+recordings</a>) But please join us if you can this evening at 5pm:<br /><a href="http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/previouswinners4/">http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/previouswinners4/</a><br /><br />Well, five 'o clock has now been and gone and the webinar is over. Here is a Slideshare with embedded YouTube videos showing the webinars of these three finalists. Take a watch and a listen if you have the time. <br /><br /><div id="__ss_11539587" style="width: 425px;"><b style="display: block; margin: 12px 0 4px;"><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/fionabeal/past-pil-winners-webinars-in-south-africa-4" target="_blank" title="Part 4 - Past PIL winners' webinars in South Africa ">Part 4 - Past PIL winners' webinars in South Africa </a></b> <iframe frameborder="0" height="355" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/embed_code/11539587" width="425"></iframe> <br /><div style="padding: 5px 0 12px;">View more <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/thecroaker/death-by-powerpoint" target="_blank">PowerPoint</a> from <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/fionabeal" target="_blank">fionabeal</a> </div></div><br />Otherwise, listen to their podcasts instead<br /><br /><object data="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" height="129" id="boo_embed_665090" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" /><param name="scale" value="noscale" /><param name="salign" value="lt" /><param name="bgColor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="FlashVars" value="mp3=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665090-ngaka-ralekoala-children-who-care.mp3%3Fkeyed%3Dtrue%26source%3Dembed&mp3Title=Ngaka+Ralekoala+-+Children+who+care&mp3Time=09.12pm+12+Feb+2012&mp3LinkURL=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665090-ngaka-ralekoala-children-who-care&rootID=boo_embed_665090" /><a href="http://audioboo.fm/boos/665090-ngaka-ralekoala-children-who-care.mp3?keyed=true&source=embed">Ngaka Ralekoala - Children who care (mp3)</a></object><br /><br /><object data="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" height="129" id="boo_embed_665100" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" /><param name="scale" value="noscale" /><param name="salign" value="lt" /><param name="bgColor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="FlashVars" value="mp3=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665100-charli-wiggil-tweenzite.mp3%3Fkeyed%3Dtrue%26source%3Dembed&mp3Title=Charli+Wiggil+-+Tweenzite&mp3Time=09.18pm+12+Feb+2012&mp3LinkURL=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665100-charli-wiggil-tweenzite&rootID=boo_embed_665100" /><a href="http://audioboo.fm/boos/665100-charli-wiggil-tweenzite.mp3?keyed=true&source=embed">Charli Wiggil - Tweenzite (mp3)</a></object><br /><br /><object data="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" height="129" id="boo_embed_665112" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://abfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/swf/fullsize_player.swf" /><param name="scale" value="noscale" /><param name="salign" value="lt" /><param name="bgColor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="FlashVars" value="mp3=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665112-glen-williams-silent-morals.mp3%3Fkeyed%3Dtrue%26source%3Dembed&mp3Title=Glen+Williams+-+Silent+Morals&mp3Time=09.31pm+12+Feb+2012&mp3LinkURL=http%3A%2F%2Faudioboo.fm%2Fboos%2F665112-glen-williams-silent-morals&rootID=boo_embed_665112" /><a href="http://audioboo.fm/boos/665112-glen-williams-silent-morals.mp3?keyed=true&source=embed">Glen Williams - Silent Morals (mp3)</a></object><br /><br /><br /></div>

Competitions Microsoft podcasts Project-based learning Slideshare Teaching videos webinars Join our webinar session of past winners at 5pm today!

This afternoon we have another webinar of three past finalists or winners in the South African Partners in Learning forum. Please log in as ...

Read more »

What are YOU doing about the Partners in Learning Forum this year?

Can you feel the excitement in the air? it's time to be preparing for Microsoft's Partners in Learning Forum. This is an exciting competition that used to be called the Innovative Teacher competition. There are some superb prizes available, and it is <b>really</b> worth giving it your best shot. The competition involves taking something you are doing in class and adding technology to it. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmaoAQXTViMjTSSa8H-OdtR21pMIEOA9Tia97c3oh20eWbJlzz3BbpzEEwmhdJYx2eu7OBOy6iczWkV8yx7KLWOIyJxC6ljP8V9g7vZ0RoSgqVVbPpNzqXf4Hb4QvhXkPzMcgxpT8fh0/s1600/Victor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmaoAQXTViMjTSSa8H-OdtR21pMIEOA9Tia97c3oh20eWbJlzz3BbpzEEwmhdJYx2eu7OBOy6iczWkV8yx7KLWOIyJxC6ljP8V9g7vZ0RoSgqVVbPpNzqXf4Hb4QvhXkPzMcgxpT8fh0/s400/Victor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />If you are successful you could be in for a year that involves travel and adventure! If you haven't started a project yet and you are still floundering for ideas, well, I have prepared a Slideshare to help you. Just remember that entries have to be uploaded by 12 March 2102. For more information please look at the wiki we have created to guide you through the days until closing date - <a href="http://partnersinlearningforum-sa.wikispaces">http://partnersinlearningforum-sa.wikispaces</a>. You can still sign up so that we can take a special interest in you. <br /><br />Here is the Slideshare:<br /><div style="width:425px" id="__ss_11488569"><strong style="display:block;margin:12px 0 4px"><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/fionabeal/get-started-on-a-project-for-the-partners-in-learning-forum" title="Get started on a project for the Partners in Learning Forum">Get started on a project for the Partners in Learning Forum</a></strong><object height="355" id="__sse11488569" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=getstartedonaprojectforthepartnersinlearningforum-120208160417-phpapp02&stripped_title=get-started-on-a-project-for-the-partners-in-learning-forum&userName=fionabeal" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"/><embed name="__sse11488569" src="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=getstartedonaprojectforthepartnersinlearningforum-120208160417-phpapp02&stripped_title=get-started-on-a-project-for-the-partners-in-learning-forum&userName=fionabeal" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><div style="padding:5px 0 12px">View more <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/">presentations</a> from <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/fionabeal">fionabeal</a>.</div></div><br />So, what are <b>YOU</b> doing about the Partners in Learning Forum this year?

Microsoft Project-based learning Slideshare What are YOU doing about the Partners in Learning Forum this year?

Can you feel the excitement in the air? it's time to be preparing for Microsoft's Partners in Learning Forum. This is an exciting co...

Read more »

domino is coming back

A friend gave me the best news this morning - Domino is coming back!!<br /><br />I bet you have more pictures from that magazine pinned than you realize and now we'll be able to see even more. You can read the announcement <a href="http://www.adweek.com/news/press/cond-nast-revive-domino-special-newsstand-editions-138107" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />"Quick Fixes" will have at least two issues, one in April and another in the fall. And when they sell as well as I suspect they will, maybe Condé Nast will pull the trigger and bring back the monthly treasure!<br /><br />Is anyone else as excited as I am? Have a favorite article or imagine from Domino? Anyone else have  a pile of them in your bedroom closet like I do? Yet another reason to look forward to spring!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUcCMWbV7lSDliVkow-7XJkihBqvvpJPJuC0PUKGEgfa-Ytm16Fkt5FJcr3z_PVIDmhbZIFaOnD-h-YO5XqidMSKDhv3pyIIOOoAtwQMfhYtKXcPUtr6fHY4KYLxHeNBspOcHdI2psZ4f/s1600/6a00d83539e9ed69e20105358a7e04970b-800wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUcCMWbV7lSDliVkow-7XJkihBqvvpJPJuC0PUKGEgfa-Ytm16Fkt5FJcr3z_PVIDmhbZIFaOnD-h-YO5XqidMSKDhv3pyIIOOoAtwQMfhYtKXcPUtr6fHY4KYLxHeNBspOcHdI2psZ4f/s400/6a00d83539e9ed69e20105358a7e04970b-800wi.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHcsxbddtvRb3imslWN5ppGPZePqcu5HmEvZv8bwMNwc7_1Yd96btbzu-WFAeh4MVJNm4o31U_xloUtAbfnRbUCCrtBtxYaOg7Gg1Ep5CLevPT71Hp91kad17XuHQtDMhyphenhyphenJpjEBxozPX0/s1600/200px-Domino_-_premier_issue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHcsxbddtvRb3imslWN5ppGPZePqcu5HmEvZv8bwMNwc7_1Yd96btbzu-WFAeh4MVJNm4o31U_xloUtAbfnRbUCCrtBtxYaOg7Gg1Ep5CLevPT71Hp91kad17XuHQtDMhyphenhyphenJpjEBxozPX0/s400/200px-Domino_-_premier_issue.jpg" width="299" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNu10O8pF2TTt7TkRqCB1-zDuLWrx7MeQV-nfzHDAj0Jfk4m7IsATs0lwXsmlAzmzZYPEC7kq0HhjylXxyD-fBPlyVaU8o29p3a9p8wcApjoMOZyEl75m614-DyIAuvEIBngNyORRTBTSY/s1600/domino-magazine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNu10O8pF2TTt7TkRqCB1-zDuLWrx7MeQV-nfzHDAj0Jfk4m7IsATs0lwXsmlAzmzZYPEC7kq0HhjylXxyD-fBPlyVaU8o29p3a9p8wcApjoMOZyEl75m614-DyIAuvEIBngNyORRTBTSY/s400/domino-magazine.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br />

domino is coming back

A friend gave me the best news this morning - Domino is coming back!! I bet you have more pictures from that magazine pinned than you realiz...

Read more »

Super Bowl Sunday

Here is how my Sunday went:<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">1. Woke up around 8 AM and decided to hit the gym shortly thereafter.  I had a big day ahead of me and wanted to get my 2nd round of the activity out of the way for the week. - <i>Great job!</i><br /><br />2. After the gym, I showered up and got ready to meet with an old friend at Applebees.  I chose there because of the WW menu.  I didn't order off of that menu however.  Instead I ordered from their "Under 550" calories menu, choosing the Signature Sirloin with Garlic Herb Sauce.  Turns out that Applebees no longer serves the WW shrimp skewers I used to order.  Overall, this wasn't a terrible choice, but it did clock in at 13 PointsPlus, which I discovered once I returned home {there were WW dishes on there for that much too!}. - <i>Unprepared.</i></blockquote><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX5KmiY4oNDZkrtMEZo23BUxMB8qW9SZOTUB47COPmeVc5CkiDjrfU2plHa-gT8XfK9_Gajf3QHoKsMGHxAiaWfKFNRDL6Vm3v75ykAan7Xnv1K2ZkytMhOMuA_-v4_neLjDi8V6YHaw/s1600/applebees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVX5KmiY4oNDZkrtMEZo23BUxMB8qW9SZOTUB47COPmeVc5CkiDjrfU2plHa-gT8XfK9_Gajf3QHoKsMGHxAiaWfKFNRDL6Vm3v75ykAan7Xnv1K2ZkytMhOMuA_-v4_neLjDi8V6YHaw/s400/applebees.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">3.  Even after that steak and potatoes meal, I was still hungry when I came home.  I have no idea why.  I drank 3 glasses of unsweetened iced tea at the restaurant, and downed a glass of water when I got home, and I was still hungry.  And this is where the downfall begins... - <i>Unprepared with better alternatives and ravenous/stressed out as a result. </i></blockquote><br />It is almost as if once I tell myself I have to <i>really </i>stay on track when a social event occurs, I inevitably do the exact opposite.  I place so much emphasis on it, I fail.  I panic, and then I start to eat.  I had set myself up for success on Sunday, going to the gym early, picking a decent choice while out to eat, but in the end I failed. {I had already had my "special" meal for the week too - that was on Friday night}. <br /><br />I know I was worrying about the SB party and the tempting food that would be there.  So I ate before we left.  Stupid.  I never understood this logic about eating before you go to a party.  Supposedly this will prevent you from being "tempted" to eat when you get there because you'll be full.  <i>That does not work for me.  </i>Since when has being "full" ever stopped me before?<i>  </i>I mean, hello - 263.8 lbs?  I didn't get to that point by only eating when I was hungry!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYyff_gLaV8JEYxmNFeBMkqh1jiFR1K792ebo_0vK7NiOq4yZKsUsqSJcjJVZ_8-1Eztml2qixqnnHknA2rK2MlMz7BA-Pu8LUZQBiJHx5YtEzgzTuum-DKeLUmnC0vcKRFbkBASAr1k/s1600/pentagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYyff_gLaV8JEYxmNFeBMkqh1jiFR1K792ebo_0vK7NiOq4yZKsUsqSJcjJVZ_8-1Eztml2qixqnnHknA2rK2MlMz7BA-Pu8LUZQBiJHx5YtEzgzTuum-DKeLUmnC0vcKRFbkBASAr1k/s400/pentagon.jpg" width="440" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view outside of their apartment:<br />Washington Monument & the Pentagon in the foreground</td></tr></tbody></table><br />But I tried this approach, because I've read about this idea time and time again in magazines and have heard it on TV {I've tried this in the past without success too}.  This is why I wrote that post last week about the gym.  The same logic applies here:  no matter how many studies say this, that and the other, I have to know Hilary and how Hilary operates in given situations.  Despite how many studies say that eating before going to a social event will curb my appetite, it won't.  In fact, it was all I could do to NOT think about food.  All I wanted was to eat.<br /><br />Joel made wings and I made meatballs  {plus the Hungry Girl Pigs in a Blanket}.  I had 1 wing and 1 turkey meatball {appetizer size, not baseball size}.  Then I ate a ton of broccoli.  Then people started making comments about how I wasn't gorging myself like the rest of them.  Ugh.  I don't like to draw attention to myself with food.  At. All.  So then I went back for more food {even though I was pretty much out of Points for the day by the time we got to the party}, and I got a few more of those Hungry Girl Pigs in a Blanket.  None of this looks bad in black and white, and really it wasn't bad and I should've just stopped there, but I didn't because at the time I was entering in to the "I'm blowing it" mindset.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZV32Tdjtdx1h5C9h9KtKrd43CBpxVUkz8n78Beo1slYtuGPk7Mzhgq60Nk4CM8zG68QaSP2l9THfMEVts0JIt5UX6P8S174oqgT9hzvMxkuT0nebwupMO8Kowf7dgQZoDy3wxdJDOs1Q/s1600/air+force+memorial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZV32Tdjtdx1h5C9h9KtKrd43CBpxVUkz8n78Beo1slYtuGPk7Mzhgq60Nk4CM8zG68QaSP2l9THfMEVts0JIt5UX6P8S174oqgT9hzvMxkuT0nebwupMO8Kowf7dgQZoDy3wxdJDOs1Q/s400/air+force+memorial.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view from their apartment:<br />The Airforce Memorial & the Arlington National Cemetery (background)</td></tr></tbody></table>Then we made an even more brilliant move and we took food home with us.  UGH.  I had fudge & pizza before this gorge-fest ended.  Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.<br /><br />I could speculate all I want to as to how to have redone Super Bowl Sunday.  But the bottom line is this: I need to do what I know is right for Hilary.  Not what a million and one studies say because clearly those studies must apply to every single person out there.  No.  I know what works for me and what makes me successful.  I definitely ate out of boredom at the party, and that's another problem that needs to be reckoned with.  Still, I also know I could've planned things better if I would've just really listened to myself instead of doing what "they" say to do.  <br /><br />Right now I feel like I've undone all of the success from last week, and it sucks.  I'm not out of the 230s {I got on the scale Tuesday morning}, but the numbers are creeping back up, instead of back down.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">How did you make it through Super Bowl Sunday? </span></b>

Random Weight Loss Thoughts Weight Loss Challenges Super Bowl Sunday

Here is how my Sunday went: 1. Woke up around 8 AM and decided to hit the gym shortly thereafter.  I had a big day ahead of me and wanted to...

Read more »

DIY 100 Calorie Packs

<p>Remember my <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2012/02/being-honest.html">Being Honest</a> post? Well I think the reason I was consuming starbursts and eating those cupcakes is because I'm a self described snacker! I can be 100% on plan during the main meals, but in between I LOVE to snack! To ensure I have healthy, portion controlled snacks readily available I found this great idea from <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/">Hungry Girl</a> and put together some homemade 100 calorie packs! <p align="left">For this particular combo I use Chex cereal, mini chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDxnrhC2rF4JcIZBng0Z13vkl4LrCq6PF5aBvqpnyeaDezerNK7bfRRtLY5x4ITeHMYdTq_xBsgUGDLfshH-CpjJAwuxiqds159RroFBXrtDRF4x_yF1iAQbf6zObXeFb63xyBp5fL_fN/s1600-h/IMG_10614.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1061" border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgou4UjtoKFUj8xoNhMHRXUMzhgZzElbSHLP9DUFlyR_xE2a2PF8JaMokTmTvY1VAnVsijJDwfBQ2hLRTQDd29aiDRI6V_ozfXkO7OdvLYEq5yeels5gHx51Fhj1511OPa0jrWyh8VWA9J4/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1061" width="404"></a></p> <p align="left">I combined the following to a make a s’mores 100 calorie pack:</p> <ul> <li> <div align="left">15 mini marshmallows</div> <li> <div align="left">1/4 Chex cereal</div> <li> <div align="left">1/2 T mini chocolate chips</div></li></ul> <p align="left">Makes 1 serving. 2 points+/serving. I put them in individual Rubbermaid containers for easy, on the go snacking.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqz3PCR6UnqgjqhLD1hHxZHXcaJPGN5D76c4peL3vH2KMmhYLpW70y2k_zm1oOv87NvCsaEh-gtbcCCg-T54N4ohqTffmhrJxOCYBGLpilhYeT9Xm2C7OLQbmH57GkAdtXgcNsTjJXNlF/s1600-h/IMG_10634.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1063" border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9mxVG3p3VYv-VTSGvbEywX9d3Vs-i4xObklK3BikZiJ3VzCq0dCsBmU0h35DRi9JIyLG5iAfKRtgk6uNSCV1xpog8nZDvy7byDh8yzh-eq9CO9gLAEAKR_CcXY_AqvS9Oiv3b-8r1irtU/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1063" width="404"></a></p> <p align="left">Not only did I make some homemade 100 calorie packs, I also separated out a bag of pretzels into individual portions. 3 points+ each!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcXm0XSrxefDb2tQIKzONxwlkN3gGtrssNBIcBRnAqthAECltBRKRHTYL4oliu3kx14J2ojZBPEvli0dFYAcL2yVNgDr-FBUgFyukDMFGSEXXqQ9HinjarkByvN9t74pSqxlxqnFjjVrZ_/s1600-h/IMG_10644.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1064" border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI51p9RcWpmqFx9bmacVplSBDeUEEtCe1Ndi95Fo7jupXsonUuMSG3SAVbNZJCFkM8fqRzXLiCYkmi3A7mqHA1Tn5f_4bkPXxBt7vWLDVXEvd1NTBokrf2tcUKiJNmrXMUcLMqbIvCnnAK/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1064" width="404"></a></p> <p>I am going to use these portion controlled servings to help me stay on track in between meals! <p><strong>What do you do to keep your snacking in check?</strong></p>

DIY 100 Calorie Packs

Remember my Being Honest post? Well I think the reason I was consuming starbursts and eating those cupcakes is because I'm a self descr...

Read more »

I got a new job! At least I think I did

<br /><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px; text-align: left;"><div class="cbmsnArticleImage" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" src="http://emj.cbdr.com/artieimages/21/ar5l6h2766y7px212b21.gif?time=12/6/2011%202:56:01%20pm" /></div><div style="color: #333333; font: italic normal normal 16px/normal arial, helvetica;"><span id="cbArticle_lblHeadline2">How to handle strange hiring situations</span></div><b><span id="cbArticle_lblByLine">Debra Auerbach, CareerBuilder Writer</span></b><br /></div><div class="ArticleContent" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;">For a job seeker, there is no better feeling than picking up the phone and hearing those magical words, "We'd like to make you an offer." After a call like that, it's natural to want to shout the news from the <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/roofing/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">rooftops</a>, hand in your two weeks' notice and buy yourself a "Congratulations on the new job" present.<br /><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">But what happens when a week goes by and you have yet to receive official new-hire paperwork or any additional <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/communications/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">communication</a> from the hiring <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/manager/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">manager</a>? You don't want to bother the new company, but you start to panic. Perhaps your celebration was a bit premature?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Given today's up-and-down economy, strange or untraditional hiring situations are becoming more common. Perhaps you get an oral offer but then never hear back. Or you accept a job with the understanding that it's for a certain role but later learn the position has become drastically different. You're just happy to be offered a job, so you don't want to come across as pushy or a complainer. You do, however, want -- and deserve -- to get some confirmation or clarity.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">If you ever find yourself on the receiving end of what appears to be an awkward or ambiguous hiring situation, here is some advice to help you avoid getting burned:</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Don't put all your eggs in one career basket</b><br />You may be asked back for multiple interviews and get some hints from the people you speak with that the job is yours, but until you hear officially, keep your options open. "The job search is never over until the offer is in hand," says Roy Cohen, <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/career+coach/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">career coach</a> and author of "The Wall Street Professional's Survival Guide." "It is inevitable that an opportunity will disappear through no fault of yours. So it is essential that you continue to network and job search until the very final moments. Having multiple irons in the fire will also make you a lot more desirable and enhance the potential to negotiate in a meaningful way."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Leave no room for misunderstanding</b><br />At this point, you've received the oral offer from the hiring manager. Before you give notice at your current company, make sure that you have an official offer letter and that it's signed, sealed and delivered. "Don't leave a meeting where you've received a verbal offer without solidifying the details," says Sandra Lamb, career, lifestyle and etiquette expert, and author of "How to Write It, Third Edition." "Say, 'Just to be clear here, I understand you are offering me the position of X, with a salary of Y, to start Z.' Cover all the details and get them in writing. Absent [of] this, write your own letter of employment and cover all these items, and ask for a signature."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Don't be afraid to follow up</b><br />As teams shrink and companies become short-staffed, it's not uncommon for the hiring process to take a little bit of time, and days or weeks may go by before the official paperwork is in the job seeker's hand. While the job may be the only thing on your mind, it's important to remember that the hiring team is likely <a href="http://www.bing.com/search?q=juggling&src=IE-SearchBox&FORM=msns07" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">juggling</a> multiple hiring and personnel matters. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't follow up periodically; doing so will not only help to push the process along, but it will also show them your continued interest in and excitement for the position.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">Daniel Newell, job development and <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/marketing/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">marketing</a> specialist for San Jose State University's Career Center in <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/california/san+jose/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">San Jose</a>, <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/california/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">Calif</a>., suggests that if you don't hear back after seven to 10 days, it's time to follow up. "When calling the employer, thank them for taking your call and inform them that you were calling to follow up on the job offer made to you," Newell says. "Let them know that you have been preparing yourself for the opportunity and are simply inquiring about a general estimate of when they anticipate you starting the position. It's not a bad idea to ask if you will receive a formal offer via email or by mail."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">If after multiple attempts you're still hitting a brick wall, it may be a sign that it's time to move on. "If a job seeker has interviewed with an employer and has checked in with them at least twice within three weeks and has still not received a formal job offer or any sign of moving forward in the hiring process, that job seeker should reconsider working for that employer," Newell says. "This looks bad on a company and tarnishes their image as a professional business or representative."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Be open to changes</b><br />"Anyone offered a position today should anticipate -- or almost expect -- that the job for which they were hired to do is probably not the job they are going to be asked to do," says Lee Igel, Ph.D., associate <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/keyword/professor/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">professor</a> at <a href="http://msn.careerbuilder.com/jobs/new+york/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">New York</a> University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies. "Organizations today are focused on fitting the human to the task, which means the job description is either a starting point for work or something that serves as little more than a basis for hiring. In the old world of work, employees conformed to the needs of a distinct job; in today's world of work, employees have to conform to the needs of a task or project."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;">That's not to say that if you're unsure about the drastic change you can't speak up. Just do it in a way that shows you're a team player and happy to pitch in where needed, but you want to have a complete understanding of the expectations and goals for the position.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><b>Look for red flags</b><br />While companies may be approaching hiring in more untraditional ways, if something doesn't feel right, listen to your gut. If you have a bad feeling about a company or its hiring practices, chances are it's not a good place to work. "If the hiring procedure is strange, it should be a very large red flag," Lamb says. "Even in these times, getting a flaky boss, ending up working for nothing or doing a job that isn't what you thought you were being hired for isn't going to serve you well."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><i>Debra Auerbach is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, </i><a href="http://www.theworkbuzz.com/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><i>The Work Buzz</i></a><i>. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.</i></div></div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />

I got a new job! At least I think I did

How to handle strange hiring situations Debra Auerbach, CareerBuilder Writer For a job seeker, there is no better feeling than picking up th...

Read more »

Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal

I had a special request to post this recipe, so here it is.  I have no pictures of this one though.  I will warn you: this recipe says it serves 8.  When baked in an 8 x 8 pan, naturally you would cut it evenly in to 8 pieces.  Then you realize how small those pieces are, and it's 7 PointsPlus!  However, in the cookbook, it also gives the weight of the serving size, which is 126 grams.  THAT makes this worth the 7 PointsPlus, especially because it's so filling.<br /><br />Also, I find that adding milk to it is necessary, since it is definitely on the dryer side otherwise (especially if you make this for the week).  <br /><br />I hope you like it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s1600/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s320/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" width="284" /></a></div><br /><b><u>Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal</u> <i>(7 PointsPlus)</i></b><br /><ul><li>3 cup old-fashioned oats</li><li>1/2 cup chopped dried apricots</li><li>1/2 cup dried cranberries or blueberries <i>(I used bluebs!)</i></li><li>1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar</li><li>2 tsp baking powder</li><li>3/4 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li>1/4 tsp salt</li><li>1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt</li><li>1 cup reduced fat (2%) milk <i>(I used skim)</i></li><li>1/2 cup applesauce</li><li>1/2 cup Egg Beaters</li><li>2 Tbsp canola oil</li><li>1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li></ul><i>Directions:</i><br /><ol><li>Preheat oven to 350.  Lightly spray and 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray.</li><li>Mix together oats, apricots, cranberries/blueberries, all but 2 Tbsp of brown sugar, the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.  Whisk together yogurt, 1/2 cup milk, the applesauce, egg substitute, oil, and vanilla in a medium bowl until smooth.  Add yogurt mixture to oat mixture, stirring until combined well.</li><li>Spoon into prepared baking dish and spread evenly; sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar.  Bake oatmeal until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.  Let cool 10 minutes in baking dish on wire rack.  Cut oatmeal into 8 equal portions and serve with remaining 1/2 cup milk.</li></ol>Makes 8 servings

Weight Watcher Recipes Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal

I had a special request to post this recipe, so here it is.  I have no pictures of this one though.  I will warn you: this recipe says it se...

Read more »

Currency Warfare: What are the Real Targets of the E.U. Oil Embargo against Iran?

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true" DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99" LatentStyleCount="267"> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Normale Tabelle"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style><![endif]--> <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1vKCzIpSyt2VsnkN7XO0ssw5G0P0FEh5jnkTTxT9Qy2is6Ru3C5FmOjUrANofrYCmmF-QknAKMlZiwpvARv6RoR0O1s6btFEiXx1yWz84qHb3KB2zz32Jrtmj3xxBx9GW7v_3SzyN_Gh/s1600/p_20101014082801FinancialSvcs600x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1vKCzIpSyt2VsnkN7XO0ssw5G0P0FEh5jnkTTxT9Qy2is6Ru3C5FmOjUrANofrYCmmF-QknAKMlZiwpvARv6RoR0O1s6btFEiXx1yWz84qHb3KB2zz32Jrtmj3xxBx9GW7v_3SzyN_Gh/s320/p_20101014082801FinancialSvcs600x500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Against whom is the European Union’s so-called “oil embargo on Iran” really aimed at? </span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">by Mahdi Darius Nazemroaya</span><br /><i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">This is an important geo-strategic question. Aside from rejecting the new E.U. measures against Iran as counter-productive, Tehran has warned the member states of the European Union that the E.U. oil embargo against Iran will hurt them and their economies far more than Iran. <br /><br />Tehran has thus warned the leaders of the E.U. countries that the new sanctions are foolish and against their national and bloc interests. But is this correct? At the end of the day, who will benefit from the chain of events that are being set into motion?</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oil Embargos against Iran are Not New <br /></span></b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />In 1951, the Iranian government of Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh with the support of the Iranian Parliament nationalized the Iranian oil industry. As a result of Dr. Mossadegh’s nationalization program, the British militarily blockaded the territorial waters and national ports of Iran with the British Royal Navy and prevented Iran from exporting its oil. They also militarily prevented Iranian trade. London also froze Iranian assets and started a campaign to isolate Iran with sanctions. The government of Dr. Mossadegh was democratic and could not be vilified easily domestically by the British, so they began to portray Mossadegh as a pawn of the Soviet Union who would turn Iran into a communist country together with his Marxist political allies.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The illegal British naval embargo was followed by regime change in Tehran via a 1953 Anglo-American engineered coup d’état. The 1953 coup transformed the Shah of Iran from a constitutional figure head to an absolute monarch and dictator, like the monarchs of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar. Iran was transformed overnight from a democratic constitutional monarchy into a dictatorship.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Today, a militarily imposed oil embargo against Iran is not possible like it was in the early 1950s. Instead London and Washington use the language of righteousness and hide behind false pretexts about Iranian nuclear weapons. Like in the 1950s, the oil embargo against Iran is tied to regime change. Yet, there are also broader objectives that go beyond the boundaries of Iran tied to Washington’s project to impose an oil embargo against the Iranians.<br /><br /><b>The European Union and Iranian Oil Sales</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Iran’s largest customer for oil is the People’s Republic of China. According to the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA), which was created after the 1973 Arab Oil Embargo as the strategic wing of the Western Bloc’s Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Iran exports 543,000 oil barrels per day to China. Iran’s other large customers are India, Turkey, Japan, and South Korea. India imports 341,000 barrels per day from Iran, Turkey imports 370,000 barrels per day from Iran, Japan imports 251,000 barrels per day from Iran, and South Korea imports 239,000 barrels per day from Iran.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">According to the Iranian Ministry of Petroleum the European Union only accounts for 18% of Iranian oil exports, which means less than one-fifth of Iranian oil sales. Only “collectively” is the European Union the second largest customer of Iran. All the E.U. countries together import 510,000 barrels per day from Iran. This collective rank that all Iranian oil importing E.U. countries have together is being highlighted by those that want to emphasize the effectiveness of the E.U. oil embargo against Iran.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Iran can replace oil sales to the European Union via new buyers or by increasing sales to existing customers like China and India. An Iranian agreement to work with China for stockpiling Chinese strategic reserves would fill a large portion of the vacuum left by the European Union. Thus, the oil embargo against Iran will have minimal direct effects on Iran. Rather, it is most likely that any of the effects that the Iranian economy feels will be tied to the global ramifications of the oil embargo against Iran.<br /><br /><b>Iran and Global Currency Warfare</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), both the U.S. dollar and the euro together constitute 84.4% of the world’s currency exchange reserves (end of 2011 date). The U.S. dollar alone, was the largest share of the world’s currency exchange reserves in 2011, namely 61.7%. <br /><br />Energy sales are an important part of this equation, because the American dollar is tied to the oil trade. <br /><br />Thus, oil trade, through what is called the petro-dollar, is helping sustain the American dollar’s international standing. Countries around the world have been virtually forced to use the U.S. dollar to maintain their energy and trade needs and transactions. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To highlight the importance of the international oil trade to the U.S., all the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members – Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates – have their national currencies pegged to the U.S. dollar and thereby sustain the petro-dollar by trading oil in American dollars. Moreover, the currencies of Lebanon, Jordan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Belize, and several tropical islands in the Caribbean Sea are also all pegged to the U.S. dollar. Aside from the overseas territories of the United States, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Panama also all officially use the U.S. dollar as their national currencies.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The euro on the other hand is both a rival of the U.S. dollar as well as an allied currency. Both currencies work in tandem against other currencies in many cases and seem to be controlled by increasingly merging centres of financial power. <br /><br />Aside from the seventeen European Union members using the euro as their currency, the Principality of Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City have issuing rights and both Montenegro and the Albanian-majority Serbian province of Kosovo also use the euro as their national currencies. Outside of the euro area (Eurozone), the currencies of Bosnia, Bulgaria, Denmark, Latvia, and Lithuania in Europe; the currencies of Cape Verde, Comoros, Morocco, the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, and the two CFA zones in Africa; and the currencies of several Western European overseas dependencies, such as Greenland, are all pegged to the euro. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Several monetary zones are directly tied to the euro. In Oceania, the Comptoirs Français du Pacifique (CFP) franc, simply called the Pacific franc (<i>franc pacifique</i>), used in a monetary union of the French dependencies of French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and the Territory of the Wallis and Futuna Islands is pegged to the euro. As mentioned earlier, both the CFA zones in Africa are also pegged to the euro. Thus, both the Financial Community of Africa (<i>Communauté financière d’Afrique</i>, CFA) franc or West African CFA franc in West Africa – used by Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo – and the Financial Cooperation in Central Africa (<i>Coopération financière en Afrique central</i>, CFA) franc or Central African CFA franc – used by Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon – have their fates tied to the monetary value of the euro.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Iran is not looking for military confrontation in the rising hostilities with the United States and European Union. Despite the warped narrative being presented, Tehran has said that it will only close the Strait of Hormuz as a last resort. The Iranians have also said that they will not let U.S. or hostile ships go through Iranian territorial water, which is their legal right, and that hostile ships could navigate through Oman’s territorial waters in the Strait of Hormuz instead. As a side note, among other things, the problem for the U.S. and Iran’s other adversaries is that the waters on the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz are too shallow.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Instead of military confrontation, Tehran is fighting back economically in several ways. The first step, which started before 2012, was Iranian international oil sales and trade were diversified in regards to their currency transactions. This is part of a calculated move by Iran to move away from using the American dollar just like Saddam Hussein of Iraq did in 2000 as a means to fight back against the sanctions imposed on Iraq. In this context, Iran has created an international energy exchange or course competing with the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and London’s International Petroleum Exchange (IPE), which both operate using the American dollar for transactions. This energy exchange, called the Kish Oil Bourse, was officially opened in August 2011 on Kish Island in the Persian Gulf. Its first transactions were made using the euro and the Emirati dirhem.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In context of euro and U.S. dollar rivalries, the Iranians originally wanted to turn to the euro and a petro-euro system with the hope that the competition between the American dollar and the euro would make the European Union an ally of Iran and de-link the E.U. from the United States. As political tensions have mounted with the E.U., the petro-euro has become less attractive for Tehran. Iran has realized that the European Union is submissive to U.S. interests under corrupt leaders. Thus, to a lesser extent, Iran has also tried to move away from the euro.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Moreover, Iran has broadened its move away from the use of the U.S. dollar and the euro as policy in bilateral trade relations. Iran and India are talking about gold payments for Iranian oil. Iranian and Russian trade is conducted in Iranian rials and Russian roubles, while Iranian trade with China and other Asian countries is conducted using the Chinese renminbi, Iranian rial, Japanese yen, and other non-dollar and non-euro currencies.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">While the euro could have been a big winner from a petro-euro system, the actions of the European Union have worked against this. The E.U. oil embargo against Iran is merely hammering the nails in the coffin. Globally, the emerging matrix of Eurasian and international trade and transaction outside of the umbrellas of the American dollar and the euro is weakening both currencies. The Iranian Parliament is now passing legislation to cut oil exports to the members of the European Union that will be part of the sanctions regime until they rescind the Iranian oil sanctions. The Iranian move will be a blow to the euro, especially since the European Union will not have time to prepare for the Iranian energy cuts.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are several possibilities that could emerge. One of them is that this could be part of what Washington wants and it could be playing into its hands against the European Union. Another is that the U.S. and specific E.U. members are working together against strategic economic rivals and other markets.<br /><br /><b>Who Benefits? The Economic Targets are beyond Iran...</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The end of Iranian oil exports to the European Union and the decline of the euro will directly benefit the United States and the U.S. dollar. What the European Union is doing is merely weakening itself and giving the U.S. dollar the upper hand in its currency rivalry against the euro. Moreover, should the euro collapse, the American dollar will quickly fill much of the void. Despite the fact that Russia will benefit from higher oil prices and greater leverage over E.U. energy security as a supplier, the Kremlin has also warned the European Union that it is working against its own interests and subordinating itself to Washington.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Many important questions are at play about the economic consequences of increased oil prices. <br /><br />Will the European Union be able to weather the economic storm or a currency collapse? <br /><br />What the E.U. oil embargo against Iran will do is destabilize the euro and snowball globally hurting non-E.U. economies. In this regard, Tehran has warned that the U.S. aims to hurt rival economies through the adoption of E.U. oil sanctions against Iran. Within this line of thinking, this is the reason why the U.S. is trying to force China, India, South Korea, and Japan in Asia to reduce or cut Iranian oil imports.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Within the European Union, it will be the most fragile and struggling economies, such as Greece and Spain, which will be hurt by the E.U. oil embargo against Iran. <br /><br />The oil refineries in the European Union countries that import Iranian oil will have to find new sellers as sources and will also be forced to adjust their operations. Piero De Simone, one of the leaders of Italy’s Unione Petrolifera, has warned that approximately seventy oil refineries in the E.U. could be shutdown and that Asian countries could start selling refined Iranian oil to the European Union at the expense of the local refineries and the local petroleum industries. <br /><br />Despite the political claims supporting an oil embargo against Iran, neither will Saudi Arabia be able to fill the void of Iranian oil exports to the European Union or other markets. A shortfall in oil supplies and the production changes could have spiralling effects in the European Union and on the costs of industrial production, transportation, and market prices. The prediction is that the E.U. will effectively be deepening the crisis in the euro area or Eurozone. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Moreover, the rise in everyday prices, ranging from food to transportation, will not be limited to the European Union, but will have global ramifications. As prices rise on a global scale, the economies in Latin American, Caribbean, African, Middle Eastern, Asian, and Pacific countries will face new hardship, which the financial sector in the U.S. and several of its partners – including members of the European Union – could capitalize on by taking over certain sectors and markets. The IMF and World Bank, as the Bretton Woods proxies of Wall Street, could get into the mix and impose more privatization programs benefiting the financial sectors of the U.S. and its main partners. Furthermore, how Iran decides to sell the 18% of oil it will stop selling to E.U. members will also be a mediating factor.<br /><br /><b>The Ghosts of the 1973 Arab Oil Embargo: Libya and the International Energy Agency</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">While countries in Africa or the Pacific have no strategic oil reserves and will be at the mercy of global price increases, the U.S. and the European Union have worked and tried to strategically insulate themselves from such scenarios. This is where the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) comes into the picture. Libyan oil reserves are also a factor to the hostilities and petro-politics involving Iran.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The IEA was created after the 1973 Arab Oil Embargo. As mentioned earlier it is a “strategic wing of the Western Bloc’s Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).” The OECD is a club of countries that includes the U.S., Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Turkey, Australia, Israel, and New Zealand. It is essentially based on the contours of the Western Bloc, which is comprised of America’s allies and satellites. Aside from Israel, Chile, Estonia, Iceland, Slovenia, and Mexico all the members of the OECD are members of the IEA.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Since its creation in 1974, one of the responsibilities of the IEA has been to stock strategic oil reserves for the OECD countries. During the NATO war against Libya the IEA actually opened its strategic oil reserves to compensate for the void left by a lack of Libyan oil exports. The only other two times this happened were in 1991, when Washington led a military coalition in its first war against Iraq, and in 2005, when Hurricane Katrina devastated the United States. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The war in Libya had many purposes: </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 5.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(1) preventing African unity; <br /><br />(2) driving China out of Africa; <br /><br />(3) strategically controlling important energy reserves; and <br /><br />(4) guarding oil supplies in the scenario of any American-led conflicts against Syria and Iran. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What the NATO war in Libya has done is secure oil output from Libya, because there was a chance that the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya under Colonial Muammar Qaddafi could have suspended oil sales to the European Union in support of Syria or Iran in possible conflicts with the U.S., NATO, and Israel. It is also interesting to note that one of the Libyan figures that helped enable the war against Libya in the United Nations was Sliman Bouchuiguir, the head of the Libyan League for Human Rights (LLHR) and the current Libyan ambassador to Switzerland, who worked on formulating a strategy against allowing oil from being used as a strategic weapon to insure that the 1973 oil crisis never repeat itself for the U.S. and its allies.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Aside from Iran, the Syrians have also been a source of oil imports for the European Union. Like Iran, the E.U. has also cut their bloc off from Syrian oil via a sanctions regime engineered by the U.S. government. With Iranian and Syrian oil cut off from the E.U., the strategic value of Libyan oil rises. In this regard, the reports about the deployment of thousands of U.S. troops to Libyan oil fields can also be analyzed as being coordinated or tied to the growing U.S. and E.U. hostilities with Syria and Iran. Rerouting Libyan oil shipments to the E.U. that were intended for China can also be part of such a strategy.<br /><br /><b>The Psychological War</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In reality, the sanctions regime engineered by the U.S. government against Iran has gone as far as it can go. All the speeches about Iranian isolation are bravado and far from the reality of current international relations and trade. Brazil, Russia, China, India, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Venezuela, and various countries in the post-Soviet space, Asia, Africa, and Latin America have all refused to join the sanctions against the Iranian economy.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The E.U. oil embargo, coupled with the broader sanctions against Iran, has broad psychological implications. Iran and its ally Syria both face a multi-dimensional war that has economic, covert, diplomatic, media, and psychological scopes. <br /><br />The psychological war, which involves the mainstream media as a tool of foreign policy and war, constitutes an efficient propaganda instrument for the U.S. due to its lower costs. Yet, the psychological war can be fought on both sides. <br /><br />Much of the power of the U.S. is psychological and tied to fear. Like the geography of the Persian Gulf, time is on Iran’s side and working against the United States. <br /><br />If Iran continues on its present course and is undeterred by sanctions, this will help break a critical psychological threshold, which around the world tends to discourage countries from confronting and opposing the United States. <br /><br />Should many countries continue to refuse to bow down to the Obama Administration pertaining to the imposition of sanctions against Iran, this will also be a blow to the prestige and power of the U.S., which would also have economic and financial implications.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Moreover, at the end of the day, the E.U. oil embargo will hurt the E.U. instead of Iran. In the long-term it could also hurt the United States. <br /><br />Structurally, the effects of the E.U. oil embargo will further entrench the E.U. in the orbit of Washington, but these effects will catalyze growing social opposition to Washington, which will eventually manifest in the political and economic arenas.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>

Currency Warfare: What are the Real Targets of the E.U. Oil Embargo against Iran?

Against whom is the European Union’s so-called “oil embargo on Iran” really aimed at?  by Mahdi Darius Nazemroaya This is an important geo-...

Read more »