Sharon Kolb

If you are moving to Atlanta, look for small friendly neighborhoods near Decatur, Georgia and Emory University for convenience - not to mention charm! These areas offer easy access to shopping, airports and downtown businesses, as well as close by restaurants. You will find homes in all prices ranges within a short drive. Many neighborhoods consist of older, 1940's bungalows or 1950's/1960's brick ranches with basements. There are several communities in the area with newer, larger home but they tend to have smaller yards and are closer together. Downtown Decatur, just a few miles from Emory, is a mecca for shopping & restaurants, and has one of the highest rated school dristricts in the area.

Contact Atlanta Decatur Homes for more information about this dynamic area or check out http://emorydecaturhomes.com

There's no tiptoeing around - we are facing difficult days! And, one of the hardest realities is that we often can't "fix it". But, working on something, however small, gives you a focus and a sense of achievement.

Money - Finances are tight for many families today, but some are finding creative ways to compensate by renting movies, having friends over for a meal, organizing card parties and swap meets. They are watching their grocery costs and following a budget, not buying clothes or taking trips. Make your own economies until things improve.

Employment - This is probably the number one worry that many face today, with company layoffs, closing of plants and cutbacks. Jobs are hard to find and hard to keep these days. Some individuals are working two jobs to survive or forming their own small business. Look at your skills and your hobbies. You might just turn one into a new venture! Setting a goal to send out so many resumes or call so many companies every day can give you a sense that you are moving along, not standing still.

Home - Perhaps you have put off selling your home until the real estate market in your area improves. This is a great time to consider getting things updated and in good shape. Painting is one of the least expensive and most productive projects to get your home ready to sell. This is also a good time to work on your yard and improve your curb appeal. Get rid of dying shrubs, and trim the rest. Think about window boxes or planting a flower bed. Clearing out garages, basements and attics are generally the most dreaded projects, so spend a few days getting this sorted out, then tackle your closets.

A final word - doing something every day helps you feel in control and less helpless. The Economy will improve, Stocks will go back up and real estate will sell!

I'm confused! Is the enhanced site something you pay for monthly, or am I just not hitting the right buttons. What creativity everyone has -- it's like traveling across the country and seeing the best we have to offer. Not convinced I want to pay another monthly fee, as I already have a website, etc. Just a few suggestions would be appreciated.