First post - Introduction

After funding my stock account in last year, I have come across numerous lessons that seems to repeatedly rear their ugly heads during my weakest moments (ex: pick any of the days over the past week during the commodities correction) and cost me to make some extreme mistakes. Instead of tattooing those lessons to my forehead to remind me of them, I figure it may be easier for me to write everything down and use this blog as a reinforcement (besides, I'll probably have to shave my head and use part of my chest to fit everything in if I chose the first route..). I apologize if this sounds a little self-serving, but I hope that by sharing my lessons and picks along the way, I may be able to force myself to make a good case before buying any particular stock and lessen the errors that cost me and, most likely, many other novice investors. And, of course, any comments and advices (and even criticism) are greatly appreciated, as long as they are above a basic decency level (no profanity, insults to other posters, etc).

First order of busines, I have a disclaimer. I am a novice trader, so please take what I write with a healthy set of skepticism as I am still learning new lessons from both the market. I am also a novice blogger. If I make any mistake along the way or stray outside of blogging conventions, please let me know. I tend to run toward risk in my stock picking and portfolio. To me, a stock account should be used to attempt to leverage a high rate of return; for a moderate and safe rate of return, I believe the CD and bonds rate today are competitive and a better way to go. More detailed disclaimer at the footer of the page.

Again, please feel free to let me know how I can improve both as a trader and as a blogger. Welcome to my blog.