5 super simple exercise tips

With each New Year comes the determination to begin exercising. Perhaps even you made a promise to add more exercise into your day. If your efforts at exercising are not going as well as you had planned, take a look at these tips. They might help get you back on track.

Tip #1 – Do Something You Enjoy

Exercise doesn’t have to mean spending hours at the gym peddling away on a stationary bike. It doesn’t mean you have to spend money on exercise gadgets you will likely never use, either. Anything you do to get your body moving is going to be better than doing nothing. Walking is an easy exercise that you can do just about anywhere, in any climate. Bike riding, dancing, gardening, weight lifting, swimming, playing a favorite sport, house cleaning and even playing in the yard with your children are just some of the ways you can add exercise into your daily routine.

Tip #2 – Schedule Time for Exercise

As you would a meeting or a doctor appointment, sometimes the only way to make time to exercise is to put it on your daily schedule. We’ve all got busy lives and we’re often so busy taking care of others that we never seem to make time for ourselves. Once exercise becomes part of your daily To-Do list, you’re more likely to do it. Some people have only a certain time during the day available for exercise while others will have to vary the time each day. Some people need a nudge and for them, exercising with a friend is a good solution. Choose whichever way works best for you. Just remember to actually go and do it!

Tip #3 – Remember that Exercise Can Energize

Even though you might feel too tired to exercise, give it a try anyway. You might be surprised to find how energized you feel while you’re at it and afterwards, when you’re finished. Exercise is a great stress-reliever too and if you know anything about stress, you know that it is one of the body’s biggest energy-sappers.

Tip #4 – Don’t be Afraid to Mix it up

Like anything that is done over and over again, exercise can become mundane. When you get bored with exercising, you’re less likely to keep at it. To keep from getting bored with your workout routine, change it. If you’re tired of walking, try cycling. If you’re into weight lifting, try alternating this with cardiovascular exercises throughout the week. Go bowling or play a game of tennis once in a while, and if you find you enjoy these types of activities, join up with a team.

Tip #5 – Always Begin by Warming up

Regardless of the type of exercise you choose, it is very important that you begin each session by warming up your muscles. Stretching helps prevent damage to muscle tissue and it gets your blood flowing. It gets your heart pumping, too. Just five minutes is all it takes to get your exercise session off to a good start.

How to naturally turn your slow metabolism into a fast fat burning machine

When Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays come around where I eat more than usual, I never feel guilty about how much I had eaten. The reason is because I’ve learned how to train my metabolism to burn enough body fat to allow me to have more “cheat” days. I’m not saying to eat anything and everything once you increase your metabolism (this is unhealthy), but what I am saying is that once your body is use to being in the fat burning mode, the guilt of eating “fattening” foods on holidays is not there (at least not for me). Whenever I feel that my metabolism is slowing down, I don’t worry at all because I know exactly what to do to get my metabolism back on its fat burning track. Once you understand how powerful your metabolism is when you feed it energy (continuous small meals throughout the day along with exercise) and how powerful it is to burn fat, you will experience guilt free “cheat” days too.

Increase metabolism for easy weight loss and fat burning

Metabolism = the amount of calories our bodies burn per day.

To permanently lose body fat weight, you must increase your metabolism. In order to increase your metabolism, you must do weight training exercises to condition your muscles and feed your metabolism by eating regularly throughout the day.

A slow metabolism results in less fat loss

When we lose weight, we also lose protein from our muscles. The faster we lose weight (by cutting down too much on our calorie intake), the more protein is used for energy; and when you lose too much protein from your muscles the result is a slow metabolism. This happens because your muscles need protein to grow and stay strong. When protein is taken from your muscles, you lose muscle tissue. Muscle tissues are metabolically active and burn calories (even at rest). Your body needs calories to feed these metabolically active tissues so that it has energy to continue to burn calories. The calories that are burned also come from the fat that is stored in your body. So in other words, the more calories you eat, the more energy your metabolism has to burn the fat that is stored in your body. Without the calorie intake, your metabolism has no energy therefore it will slow down and you will burn fat at a very slow rate (if you burn any at all). Having energy is not the only reason for a fast or slow metabolism. You see, when you significantly cut down on your daily calorie intake, your metabolism burns calories slower to prevent your body from starving. Being that your body now doesn’t know when you will feed it; your body will store the calories to be used later. The calories that are stored, are stored as fat.

Increase your metabolism and lose more body fat weight than water weight

When you lose protein from your muscles, you not only lose muscle tissue, but you will also lose water. Protein holds about 4 times its weight in water. To lose 10 pounds of body fat, you would need to burn 35,000 calories (3500 calories = 1 pound). If you lose those 10 pounds in one week do you honestly believe that it was body fat? The answer is no, only about 2 pounds was fat and the rest was water (Do not be fooled by what the scale says!) When you increase your metabolism, your body has a reason to hold onto the protein (remember protein holds water) and use the energy to burn fat.

Yes you will lose some protein from your muscles even if you lose weight the right way. The key is to provide your muscles with enough protein each day so that it can not only replace your protein loss, but use the extra protein to help build new muscle tissue and stay conditioned.

Eat more food to increase your metabolism

Protein helps build muscle, but carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. When your body has a deficiency of energy (carbohydrates) and takes the protein from your muscles as energy, the protein is converted to carbohydrates before it’s used as an energy source. Therefore, when you eat, you must have the right amount of carbohydrates and proteins in your body so that energy can be used efficiently. You must also eat more frequently to fuel your metabolism all day long. Eating at least 5-6 small meals each day will give your metabolism the continuous supply of energy it needs to burn fat longer and faster. If you are short on time and not able to cook, do not resort to eating junk food as one of your meals; instead opt for a good meal replacement product to satisfy your body.

Exercise to increase your metabolism

Exercise in general burns calories. Weight training will help you to increase your metabolism because that is how you condition your metabolically active muscles. Whenever you increase your physical activity, especially through exercise, you must increase the amount of calories you consume each day. Remember, the more energy (calories) you give your muscles, the more energy it has to burn fat that is stored in your body. Also remember the less energy you give you body, the more protein will be taken from your muscles to be converted to carbohydrates as energy, which leads to a slow metabolism.

The story of the invasion of lorraine in 1914

The French and Germans have argued about the territories of Alsace and Lorraine for centuries. In 1871, after losing the Franco-Prussian War, France was forced to cede the territories back to Prussia. When Germany invaded Belgium in 1914, France seized upon the opportunity to restore its honor and reclaim the coal rich regions of Alsace and Lorraine. On August 14, 1914, the French army under the command of Generals Foch and Dubail marched into Lorraine. The German forces (Sixth Army) were led by Crown Prince Rupprecht and equipped with machine guns and heavy artillery.

The German strategy was simple. On August 14th, they began a controlled retreat intending to draw the French armies into attacking heavily defended areas. The French First and Second Armies easily marched forward. On August 17th, Foch’s XXth Corps was able to seize Chвteau Salins. On August 18th Dubail’s 1st Army advanced into Sarrebourg and on the same day the 2nd Army took control of Dieuze. As the French armies continued to advance, they were met with increasingly heavier resistance from the German troops.

Rupprecht grew impatient with the retreating strategy and requested orders to attack. There are contradictory reports whether the order to counter attack came from Army Chief of Staff Helmuth von Moltke or if Rupprecht used his own authority. On August 20th, the German Sixth Army attacked the French 2nd Army. Since the French army had been advancing extremely fast, they had no trenches or other defensive positions to thwart the German offensive.

The XXth Corps led by Foch was able to maintain its position, but the 1st and 2nd armies were pushed backed. Gaps began to form in the French lines. On August 22nd, only 8 days after the French offensive began, the Commander-in Chief of the French Army Joffre was forced to order a retreat to Belfort, Epinal and Toul where trenches were in place and a stalemate between opposing forces followed.

Building a website directory that works

There are a lot of directories on the internet and there is probably room for a lot more although building a directory that is beneficial to the users, webmasters who add their site and yourself takes a little bit of forethought and a lot of work.

There are many types of directories including general directories and niche (often reffered to as vertical) directories. There are also many ways these can be structured.

The first step in planning to build a directory is deciding what it will be a directory of. You could choose to be general and have a vast array of categories and sub categories where a website on any topic can be submitted or you can choose to have a niche directory which are often reffered to as vertical directories. Vertical directories are becoming popular with users and webmasters due to the entire site and it's listings being related to one topic.

Your next choice is whether to have static pages and create each page manually or use a script that creates pages, manages your listings, site submissions and more. Using a script is the popular and sensible choice and if you have programming skills you may choose to build your own. Otherwise there are numerous directory scripts available and some are even free, for example: PHP Link Directory, Barracuda Links Directory or WSN Links to name a few.

Once you have your directory up and running with all the categories relevant to a general directory or your chosen topic the next task is get listings as without those it's not much. For other webmasters to submit their link they need to be able to find your site so getting links from 'directory of directories' sites are a good place to start in promoting your site. Although there may be catch, those sites may not want to list yours if it's not populated with listings to some extent so choose some quality sites and add them to your categories and sub categories.

For a start you may need to give free listings to get things going although there's something to watch in who you list on your directory which is summed up by quality attracts quality and trash does trash. Screen your listings and be sure they aren't banned by search engines, low quality sites, scrapper sites or just plain spam. The quality of your listings will reflect the quality of your directory to users, webmasters and to some extent search engines.

Your next choice once your directory starts to grow is how you will benefit from your work. Choices here can be running Pay Per Click advertising, banner ads, affiliate ads or charging for links or maybe both.

To get submissions from quality sites and maybe payment for links webmasters will be looking at or for Higher the Google PR the better, well keyworded title and category description, low density of links/listings per page and the quality of the other sites listed. Here is a neat trick, add top ranking sites under the appropriate categories and other sites trying to achieve top ranking for that particular keyword/category title will probably submit to have their site listed.

From there it is a matter of constantly promoting your directory via links to your site, advertising and marketing.

Phoenix schools see school choice as a necessity

Neighborhood schools are quickly becoming a thing of the past. With such things as school rankings, school “grades” for each school, and the No Child Left Behind act, simply sending our children to the grade school down the street is going the way of the dodo bird.

Today, Phoenix Schools’ parents have the option of sending their children to almost any school they wish within the district serving Phoenix Public Schools. While some may indeed choose to stick with the neighborhood learning institution many, if not most, parents are enrolling their children in specialty schools that reflect their child’s interests, strengths, or just the style of education they want for their student.

Phoenix Schools now offer various Magnet Schools to meet the growing demand for school choice. Called “Signature Schools”, these Phoenix Schools offer numerous options for students attending a Phoenix Schools magnet program.

There is a downside to the Phoenix Schools magnet program. By sending children to schools further away from home families now need to import playmates or drive their kids across town to visit friends. Families in the Phoenix Schools need to balance their desire for the strengths of a magnet with the burden of travel time and being more spread out.

If you are interested in the magnet programs offered by Phoenix Schools here’s a partial list:

Montessori – This program serves Phoenix Schools students in PreK through 8th grade. It follows the international curriculum developed by Maria Montessori.

Performing Arts – Phoenix Schools students in 7th and 8th grades have the opportunity to participate in the performing arts throughout the school year with an emphasis on drama, dance, choir and instrumental music. Kindergarten through 6th grade students also participate in these disciplines.

Math, Science & Technology – Phoenix Schools 7th and 8th grade students focus specifically on math, science and technology. The science campus at Lowell offers special benefits to prekindergarten through 6th grade students, as well.

Traditional & Balance the Basics – Prekindergarten through 8th grade Phoenix Schools students engage in a heavy emphasis on reading, math and writing.

Global Community or Donde Vivo – Donde Vivo students in 7th and 8th explore their global community through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Each year the students have the opportunity to experience their global community by traveling abroad.

Second Language Acquisition – Second Language Acquisition is the focus of a program at Herrera School for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Students are immersed in both Spanish and English in all subject areas.

Science Investigations – Phoenix Schools students in 7th and 8th grades engage in physical and life sciences during their regular science classes, as well as through an after school club with mentors from Arizona State University.

Magnet Schools offer options, but they’re not perfect. Most Phoenix Schools house magnet programs in less desirable parts of the city in an effort to draw more affluent and educated parents. But you and your child might find that it’s the right place for you.

Convert your car to run on water - save money save gas

Convert your car to run on water – save gas, save your car, save money and save the planet.

Fox News recently broadcasted an interesting and very important video report.

A savvy automobile owner has come up with a very simple yet incredibly efficient way of boosting his old car’s gas mileage by up to 100% - that means several thousands of dollars economy every year.

The creator claims that his developed invention converts water into a gas called HHO (2 Hydrogen + 1 Oxygen). Also called Brown's gas or Hydroxy burns better than regular gas at our fuel pumps and provides more energy. This process is often referred to as Hydrogen Fuel Cell conversion.

Gas prices are on constant rise and the fuel economy question is starting to get very serious. More hybrid cars are sold all over the world, concepts of electric cars and Hydrogen fuel cell cars are developed in almost any country and finally there is a way for you to add a little something to fuel efficient revolution.

Car owners seem to forget or maybe ignore the fact that they could get better gas mileage simply by changing the way they drive. You do not need to buy an ugly and slow prototype in order to save on gas. You could increase gas mileage of your V8 truck as well! To get better gas mileage you should follow these simple rules;

• Accelerate gently. This will use less gas.

• Keep your distance - every time you stop you will have to accelerate.

• Take your car to a mechanic; simple air filter change or spark plugs replacement could greatly increase gas mileage

• Drive slower. Going over 120kph will use up much more gas.

• Change gears as soon as possible - low gear uses up to 30% more fuel than needed.

Our cars’ engines are designed in such poor way that they only burn about 20% of the fuel – the other 80% is wasted in heat and unburned gas (pollution). When converted to money at 3$ a gallon – per every gallon your car actually uses only 60 cents, and 2.40$ is completely wasted. When you convert your car to run on water, you create a gas which helps burning the fuel in a better proportion.

Instructions on how to convert car to run on water are also available for sale on the Internet. There have been many skeptical people that do not believe in the efficiency of the system – but there doubts always vanish after finding out that the instructions come with 2 month full satisfaction money back guarantee.

Is it not only the “saving money” part that attracts people - when you convert your car to run on water you also increase your car’s engine longevity and you greatly decrease the pollution. The system allows you to burn gas more efficiently – which decreases the noise of the engine and the wear and tear of the motor’s parts.

The system is composed by simple parts that are basically bolted on the engine. It could be done at almost no cost, by anyone and to any car. The system is completely untraceable when taken off of the engine.

Just imagine yourself buying half the gas you are buying now! Wouldn’t it be nice to have an extra couple of thousand of dollars for Christmas presents? For a vacation? For a down payment on a new car?

I hope this article gave you enough of useful information to consider converting your car to run on water.

Staying sane while starting a home business

Starting a new business can be a harried experience. There are a myriad of decisions to be made, the budget needs stretched, the new secretary quits before the end of the first week: the struggles are endless. When starting a business from your home, you can add a slew of unique challenges to the list. Being aware of the potential pitfalls, and preparing for them can provide a way of preserving your sanity.

Friends and family members frequently assume that if you are home, you are available. Nothing can set your work back hours, faster than an unplanned visit from your mother. Setting clear boundaries regarding your schedule and availability for phone calls and visits can prevent misunderstandings early on in the life of your business.

If you are choosing to keep your small children home with you while you work, that carefully planned schedule can quickly become fodder for your three year old. Getting up early is often the best way to increase your productivity while those little angels are still slumbering away.

Having a contingency plan for days when the work load requires more attention than usual is an excellent way to head off disasters before they happen. Find local babysitters who are willing to come to your home to help out when needed. Recruit friends and family to provide occasional entertainment for short periods of time to allow you to work without interruptions. Anything that helps you keep focused is a good investment in preserving your sanity.

Running a business from your home has a few perks, especially at tax time. Consulting with a tax expert or accountant early on will arm you with the knowledge necessary to save you time and money when filing your first year’s business taxes.

Finding service providers that are both competent and trustworthy is a lesson in perseverance. The business directories, internet advertisements and even newspaper ads are clogged with scams and incapable providers. Seeking the advice of a seasoned home business veteran can be your salvation. Word of mouth will reveal strengths and problems with service providers.

If you find that you have chosen poorly and end up with a full sized, ten year old copier in your den instead of that sleek, all-in-one model with all the bells and whistles that you paid for, don’t despair. Don’t back down either. You can explain your dissatisfaction firmly and politely while explaining that the services were not acceptable. If after bringing the blunder to the business’ attention, you are still left feeling cold, you can report the offender to the Better Business Bureau: and call for legal advice.

Using good old common sense, a little street smarts and a lot of charm and honesty will help your achieve your business goals, while allowing you to keep your sanity and your home life intact.

Mortgages. big changes in the buying and selling of houses

On June 1 st 2007, the law concerning the buying and selling of houses changes. From that date onwards everyone who wants to sell a house has firstly to prepare a Home Information Pack (HIP).

And if you don't? You're in the frame for a Ј200 fine! It's also probable that estate agents will also insist on you having the Pack ready by the time they put your home on the market. Certainly, buyers' solicitors won't do a thing until you provide the Pack. All in all, you don't have an option – you'll have to go along with the law.

So what has to go in the Pack?

The Government has yet to confirm the final details but at the moment, it proposes that your Pack must include the following information:

Search results from H. M. Land Registry

Replies to anticipated initial enquiries – these are the currently raised by the buyer's solicitor

Copies of any planning, listed building and building regulations consents and approvals. If you don't have these, you'll need copies from your Local Planning Authority

And for new properties, copies of building warranties, electrical test certificates, and any other warranties or guarantees attaching to the property.

A draft sale contract

It is also proposed that the Pack should contain two items currently obtained by the buyer:

A professional independent survey of the property called a Home Condition Report. This is expected to be mid-level survey like the current Homebuyer Survey and will offer far more information than a lender's valuation report – but the Government has yet to announce the details. However, it seems likely that the Report will have to comment on the property's state of repair, it's energy conservation efficiency, the number and type of rooms and parking arrangements. Both buyers and sellers will have a legal right to rely on this Report and there'll be no need for buyers to obtain their own reports or surveys. We expect lenders to make their own valuations as they do now, but they'll want to maximise the use of the new Home Condition Report to improve their valuations and cut costs to consumers.

Replies to searches made of the Local Authority

In addition, if the property is leasehold:

A copy of the lease

The most recent service charge accounts and receipts

Details of the building's insurance and receipts for the premiums paid.

And finally, any regulations made by the management company or landlord

And how much is all this going to cost? The Government believes that t he Pack is likely to cost sellers around Ј825 including VAT. But they claim these are not additional costs.

The Government make the following points:

The HIP transfers responsibility for obtaining local searches and a home condition report from the buyer to the seller. But since most sellers are also buyers, the costs will usually be balanced out by corresponding savings and benefits. We agree.

The Government also say that most sellers won't have to pay up front for the pack. We very much doubt that. Someone is going to have to pay and we doubt whether solicitors or estate agents will pay upfront on behalf of the seller. The seller is going to have to fork out as soon as the property is put up for sale. Some commentators predict that this will act as a brake on properties coming to the market. We think that it will dissuade all but the committed sellers – those simply wanting to test the market will probably back off. In practice this will be a good thing, but we agree that it will reduce the amount of property on the market.

The Government believes that market forces will keep down the prices for preparing Home Condition Reports and Home Information Packs. We aren't so confident about this. It very much depends on how estate agents and solicitors adapt the pricing within their fee structures. Expect some very creative pricing, especially from estate agents! It's certainly going to pay you to shop around for a good deal.

Every year around 30% of agreed house sales fall through. The cost? At least Ј350 million each year! It's the Government's hope that the Home Information Packs will greatly the numbers falling through and avoid much of these wasted costs. We won't argue against that but the National Association of Estate Agents disagree with us.

They think the new Packs will simply shift the existing problems from the middle of the selling process to the beginning. Other commentators believe that HIPs will do nothing to reduce gazumping or indeed, the tricks employed by some of the less reputable estate agents.

Our general view is that if the packs help to identify problems before everyone starts incurring cost and instructing solicitors, then surely that's for the better? We say better to have problems out in the open at the start than stumble upon them half way through the selling process.

We just hope that all these changes in the buying and selling houses don't result in a bureaucratic nightmare. Over 7,500 inspectors will be needed to carry out the new Home Condition Reports and getting them all trained, qualified and registered in time may yet prove to be that fly in the ointment!

Information on headstones

Headstones are an important part of any family's grieving process. Headstones serves to help families cope with their losses.

Headstones are inscribed with dates leading as far back as the 1700s, and mark the graves of several generations. There are Revolutionary War as well as Civil War veterans' graves, and several cemeteries are regularly visited by family and friends. Headstones are attractive grave markers that can be positioned on the grave of a loved one. This item does not need to be purchased instantly.

If repairs are not undertaken then the right to erect and maintain a memorial will be terminated and the memorial may be removed. During safety inspections, required by law, any cosmetic cement joints may break; this will not leave the headstone unsafe. The Council has a legal responsibility to approve all inscriptions to ensure standards of decency are maintained.

The methods of dealing with unstable headstones has been revised and a metal stabiliser is now being used to avoid the stone being laid flat. This will allow owners to make the necessary repairs within a 4 month period.

Certain varieties of stone may be more appropriate in some places than in others, not only for their appearance but also because of the effect of weather or local conditions. A reputable memorial mason will advise you on all this.

Stress management through altering beliefs and increasing knowledge

Most humans experience unexpected setbacks Most humans experience unexpected setbacks which can cause huge stress and can halt their forward progress in life. Our attitudes, beliefs and knowledge can make a big difference to how we deal with these setbacks.

What means just major stress to one person can even mean death to another. Our beliefs and knowledge affect how much stress we experience in the face of problems, traumas, ageing and the threat of death.

One way to lessen the stress of problems like debt is to focus on and celebrate the solution to a problem. Visualise yourself celebrating being debt free and then take action to help make this freedom a reality.

Recently, I spoke to a friend who seemed knowledgeable about bullet wounds. I don't how much evidence he has for his views but they seem to make sense.

People are conditioned to believe that if they get hit by a bullet they will die. They think to themselves:

"I've been shot; I will die."

Films show us people dropping dead from a single bullet wound and our subconscious takes all this in and starts believing a bullet means death.

When we are hit by a bullet we think death is on its way and we die.

A policeman in the USA shot himself in the foot and died. On the other hand a criminal was pumped full of over twenty bullets and was still firing back at the police.

No one had told him that you died from a single bullet wound. Either that, or he was on drugs and did not know what was going on.

People who do understand bullet wounds are less likely to die because they know that not all bullet wounds are fatal. Their extra knowledge can save their lives.

In Africa, the locals can survive horrendous crocodile bites. They have not been told that such bites will kill them. They just sew up their mutilated flesh and return to their fishing when they feel better.

We in the West are not so tough although we used to be. Must of us are conditioned to believe we will get weak and feeble as we age but there exist individuals who are far stronger than those who are twenty years younger than them.

They have refused to accept weakness and have kept exercising and looking for ways to stay strong and even become stronger. Such men and women give hope to us all.

We can manage the huge stress of ageing and of death through managing and changing or at least altering our own beliefs.

Increased knowledge can also relieve stress although, occasionally, lack of knowledge about what we can't survive or achieve may be our best friend!

Increased knowledge about how our minds work will teach us not to dwell on the negative aspects of our lives. We should take note of our problems but not brood over them. Instead we should consider solutions and even imagine how we would feel if the problem had been solved.

In other words, we should not pretend our problems do not exist. They are usually only too real. We should not, however, waste good time and energy worrying about them. Instead, let's take action now to solve them and keep affirming and visualizing a happy outcome.

Practical housewarming gifts they ll treasure

Housewarming gifts need to be practical yet unique gift ideas. Use some common sense to give a gift that fits the occasion but more importantly the people you are gifting to. Most people have a kitchen. Most people could use a useful kitchen or gourmet item. Be inclined to purchase an elegant glass teapot over that crazy cuckoo clock you were considering.

No man but feels more of a man in the world if he have but a bit of ground that he can call his own. However small it is on the surface, it is four thousand miles deep; and that is a very handsome property. ~Charles Dudley Warner

Housewarming traditions date back centuries. It’s possible to believe that people were more neighborly back then. However, good neighbors still exist and they exist, in most cases, because they believe that knowing and welcoming new neighbors is not an outdated idea.

Often neighbors remain behind closed doors and fail to notice or welcome others to the neighborhood. It usually takes just one neighbor to help others see that being neighborly has multiple benefits.

Whenever we move we can feel anxious about a new neighborhood, new city and a new way of life. When others reach out to us it helps us acclimate to these new conditions much more rapidly. They often become trusted friends.

There are many housewarming gift ideas and none of them have to break the bank. A simple kitchen gift is always welcome because it helps fix in the mind of your new neighbor that there is investment in making their new location a home. A cooking gift may well be used on a regular basis and the recipient of the gift may conclude that they are indeed amongst good neighbors.

There are upscale neighborhoods where a more extravagant housewarming gift may be appropriate; however, most gifts should be both functional and beautiful while remaining within your budget.

The hallmark of a housewarming gift is their practicality. While other celebrations may call for an unusually high degree of creativity, housewarming traditions have always erred on the side of common sense.

Housewarming traditions have changed over the years. Where eggs and cherry pie might have been the primary gift in times past, small practical kitchen gifts coupled with a home produced gift will be an appealing combination to new neighbors in the 21st century. This may be why some good neighbors may choose to implement a two pronged approach to housewarming traditions. For instance they might provide a glass oil lamp that provides elegance and an inspired aroma, but they may also provide a secondary gift of home grown produce or home baked goods. It might also be a combination of gourmet oil and vinegar cruet coupled with a potted plant or flower bulbs.

The addition of a kitchen gift is almost assured to leave a favorable impression with new neighbors. Cooking gifts are well received housewarming gifts as well. Because we spend so much time in the kitchen, receiving a gift that either enhances cooking techniques or makes cooking easier remains a memorable token. Your gesture should indicate that you believe your new neighbor is a great addition to the neighborhood and that your hand of friendship remains extended.

Your housewarming gift should communicate a genuine joy in meeting someone new. New neighbors should understand your wish for a quick adjustment and that it is your intent to remain a good neighbor while contributing to the warmth and charm of the newest ‘home’ on the block.

You may have many neighbors over a lifetime or you may have very few. Please remember, sometimes the greatest neighbors are discovered when housewarming traditions are observed and implemented. A new best friend might be waiting - just next door.

Ruby slippers

“Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”

- Dorothy from ‘The Wizard of Oz’

We are decision makers.

Everday of our lives, we are presented with choices. We have to decide what clothes to wear, what movie to watch, whether or not to forsake our diets and eat that last slice of pizza, whether we should stay or go…

With these choices, even the most indecisive person must decide on an option. There is no way to go around it, for the mere fact that not deciding to do something is a decision.

And with every decision we make, we lose the one we don’t choose.

So, with every choice, an effort must be made to make sure that we not lose the best one.

Over the years, I’ve come to realize that though I’ve come across different life situations and perplexities, considerations towards the creation of a good decision were always the same.

These same factors and guidelines prove to be helpful even in deciding whether or not to choose an education abroad or locally:

1. The foundation of every good decision is correct information.

Arm yourself - research, read, study.

With every test and exam you’ve ever taken, there is nothing like coming in the examination room with a fully-reviewed mind. There is nothing like jotting down the right answer to a question. There is nothing like the security that you know the right information.

By knowing the right answers, you are less likely to falter, less likely to make mistakes, more likely to get top marks, more likely to come up with the best choice…

…and more likely to come to a good decision about your academic fate.

2. Be a realistic and practical idealist.

There is nothing wrong about dreaming big. As a matter of fact - in my opinion - the ability to dream big is an asset. Do not lose it.

However, though a positive mind may take you far, certain situations may still be anchoring you from actually moving offshore. These situations should not deter you from your dreams, but you have to take them into consideration.

A simple tool that has always proven to be effective for me is the ‘pro’ and ‘con’ sheet.

This piece of paper can even prove to be useful in coming to a decision about your geographic education.

Jotting down the ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ for each option allows you to be objective in a very subjective decision.

A. What are the advantages/disadvantages of an education abroad?

Suggested points for consideration:

* educational system

* independence

* financial capability

* others

B. What are the advantages/disadvantages of a local education?

Suggested points for consideration:

* educational system

* proximity to family, friends and the familiar

* certainty

* others

The ‘pro’ and ‘con’ sheet will not necessarily allow you to lean towards the option which has the most number of ‘pros.’ As a matter of fact, ‘cons’ can actually be the factors that may lead you to a conclusion - if you are willing to do whatever it takes to overcome them to achieve a certain option.

3. Throw caution to the wind, but bring an umbrella.

Nothing ever got accomplished without a little bit of guts and risk-taking.

But bravery is not bravery without fear.

Decision-making does not only entail intellectualizing, but feeling as well. Decisions involve human beings - the whole person. So, the heart and the mind cannot be separated.

Accept your hesitations as real and significant and do jot down why they are so apparent.

So, though sometimes you have to throw caution to the wind, taking into account all your fears and uncertancies can protect you against heavy rains since these feelings make you more cautious and careful when deciding.

4. Know when to listen and when to hear.

Seek advice from others - but know when to ‘listen’ and when to just ‘hear.’

Yes, ears are necessary for both - but, ‘listening’ and ‘hearing’ are two different things.

Hearing entails the perception of sounds. Listening, on the other hand, requires attention.

Not all advice or statements given by others will be helpful to you. Unfortunately, sometimes, they can even be damaging.

Hear those who are discouraging to the point of vicious and those who blab on and on about nothing. Merely nod and be on your way.

Listen to those who care about your well-being and those who actually know what they are talking about. First-hand accounts and actual concern make the burden of decision-making a whole lot easier to bear.

And with a big decision such as studying abroad or staying at home, you should welcome all genuine help and concern.

5. Then, decide.

Would your path lead you down the yellow brick road?

Or is there no place like home?

Software takes online trading to next level

Online brokers are offering better features today, even as fierce competition leads them to charge less than ever before. More sophisticated software-based trading tools are emerging as an alternative to traditional Web site transactions.

Recently there has been a dramatic increase in the tools made available to average traders. Without the latest technology, brokers with browser-based platforms may not be the preferred choice anymore.

Advanced trading methods warrant the use of powerful trading software. For example, investors may want to implement "trailing stop" orders, which allow them to set limits on the maximum possible loss without setting a limit on the maximum possible gain. This removes the need for an investor to monitor the investment on an ongoing basis.

Software has clear advantages over browser-based trading. RushTrade's Direct Plus software-based trading platform, for example, provides real-time market data and many features that allow strategic control of a portfolio.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing features of the software is the ability to create and automate "trade strategies." Using RushTrade's software, you could create a long strategy specifying the price you want to receive and the market conditions that must be met before your order is placed. You can also specify market conditions that will cause the strategy to be automatically cancelled. Trade Strategies is one of the most efficient ways to strategically control your trades and manage your risk.

Another benefit of software like Direct Plus is that most of the information can be displayed on one page and is fully customizable to suit the monitor size. Unlike a browser-based platform, it is not necessary to repeatedly refresh your screen to update the data or switch back and forth between pages. Software-based trading platforms allow you to see all of the information at once. Direct Plus actually supports more than one monitor for an expanded layout.

Software-based trading platforms, such as DirectPlus, are easy to use, load quickly and can display multiple windows of information at one time. This kind of software allows an investor to monitor quotes, charts, order execution, news, alerts and more, all at the same time.

Trading software is the next step for online investors. The Internet brought many casual investors to the stock market. Now, software applications like RushTrade's Direct Plus usher in a new era for online investing.

An excellent technology for improved website

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Search engine optimization offers different methods to optimize web pages. e-fuzion is one of the brightest organization under SEO Delhi. Now days search engine optimization is the hottest topic for the business entrepreneurs who want to launch their product online. Due to on page optimization and off-page optimization, web site gets top search engine ranking. Both methods of search engine optimization are good but off-page optimization is more powerful than other. SEO Delhi Company depends on different types of content, purpose and competition of websites. It is actually depends on proper use of keywords and key phrases can do good search engine optimization. Owners should use unique key words and key phrases to get high rank in search engine listings. They should use these key words at right places like in Meta tags, content area, title or H1 and H2 fields of each web page. In the web page you find different links which contains internal links as well as external links which makes your website attractive. SEO Delhi Company contains an essential tool to get benefits from website. And if we discuss about SEO Delhi Company is the only responsible organization, which brings genuine popularity in valiant web world. This is the perhaps the first and fore most crucial stage. SEO Delhi Company includes the right key words in the content of your web pages which will bring the targeted customers to your website.

Now days search engine optimization is the hottest topic for the trade entrepreneurs who want to build up their business throughout web site. Due to on – page optimization and off-page optimization, web site gets top exploration engine ranking. Both methods of search engine optimization are more authoritative than other course of action.

Bracelet a fashion statement for eternity

Bracelet is a piece of jewelry that embraces the wrist and enhances the beauty of a slender hand. The name bracelet is taken from the Latin word ‘brachile”, which means “of the arm”. Bracelets give an exotic look and there is no woman who wouldn’t want to show off this ornament dangling from her wrist.

Bracelets have been worn for a long time. Our ancestors wore bracelets made of wood, beads, stones, bone strips etc. Bone strips were formed into rings and then fastened in a circle with metal clasps. Metal and ivory were also used in the 4th century.

There are several superstitions associated with bracelets in several parts of the world. Some believe that certain bracelets ward off evil, while others believe they bring good luck. There is a Greek superstition where mothers make bracelets (Martis) with red and white string and tie them on their children’s wrists on March 1st. They believe that wearing these bracelets will ensure that the sun does not burn their cheeks and they remain pink in color. After midnight, they are thrown into a bonfire.

Bracelets in the modern day are made of a variety of materials. They are made from precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and white gold. Precious gemstones set in precious metal bracelets, bestow grandeur and incomparable elegance. To make them more affordable to the common man, they are even made with cheaper materials like plastic, beads, glass etc. Bangles are also a form of bracelets, which are used extensively in India. These can be in plain form or set with stones. When bangles made of glass are worn together they give out a tinkling sound that is beautiful. Every material known to man is used in the making of bracelets.

There is a bracelet for almost every occasion and even sports are not left behind. There are charm bracelets, tennis bracelets, sports bracelets, slap bracelets etc. Colored silicon rubber is used in the production of sports bracelets and this trend has been started by Lance Armstrong, in the form of wristbands, for cancer awareness. The tennis bracelet is also called a thin line diamond bracelet. They are thin and elegant and have a symmetrical pattern of diamonds. When talking about tennis bracelets, Chris Evert, the tennis star comes to mind as she was not only famous for her bracelets, but she is said to have lost one during the US Open in 1987 and the game had to be paused while she searched for her precious bracelet. This is when the ‘tennis bracelet’ name was given to the thin line diamond bracelets. Charm bracelets contain charms like little hearts, fairies, angels, crosses etc. These charms have a meaning and signify something important in the person’s life. Bracelet is a piece of jewelry that embraces the wrist and enhances the beauty of a slender hand. The name bracelet is taken from the Latin word ‘brachile”, which means “of the arm”. Bracelets give an exotic look and there is no woman who wouldn’t want to show off this ornament dangling from her wrist.

Bracelets have been worn for a long time. Our ancestors wore bracelets made of wood, beads, stones, bone strips etc. Bone strips were formed into rings and then fastened in a circle with metal clasps. Metal and ivory were also used in the 4th century.

There are several superstitions associated with bracelets in several parts of the world. Some believe that certain bracelets ward off evil, while others believe they bring good luck. There is a Greek superstition where mothers make bracelets (Martis) with red and white string and tie them on their children’s wrists on March 1st. They believe that wearing these bracelets will ensure that the sun does not burn their cheeks and they remain pink in color. After midnight, they are thrown into a bonfire.

Bracelets in the modern day are made of a variety of materials. They are made from precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and white gold. Precious gemstones set in precious metal bracelets, bestow grandeur and incomparable elegance. To make them more affordable to the common man, they are even made with cheaper materials like plastic, beads, glass etc. Bangles are also a form of bracelets, which are used extensively in India. These can be in plain form or set with stones. When bangles made of glass are worn together they give out a tinkling sound that is beautiful. Every material known to man is used in the making of bracelets.

There is a bracelet for almost every occasion and even sports are not left behind. There are charm bracelets, tennis bracelets, sports bracelets, slap bracelets etc. Colored silicon rubber is used in the production of sports bracelets and this trend has been started by Lance Armstrong, in the form of wristbands, for cancer awareness. The tennis bracelet is also called a thin line diamond bracelet. They are thin and elegant and have a symmetrical pattern of diamonds. When talking about tennis bracelets, Chris Evert, the tennis star comes to mind as she was not only famous for her bracelets, but she is said to have lost one during the US Open in 1987 and the game had to be paused while she searched for her precious bracelet. This is when the ‘tennis bracelet’ name was given to the thin line diamond bracelets. Charm bracelets contain charms like little hearts, fairies, angels, crosses etc. These charms have a meaning and signify something important in the person’s life.

Using credit cards for doctors bills

In recent years, as medical health costs rise it has been found that credit cards are being used more and more to cover the costs associated with medical treatments. This is having a major impact on the credit ratings of patients who wind up having expensive medical procedures and discover only after the fact that their medical insurance coverage did not look after the bill.

Just about every one realizes that a medical emergency can happen to any one at any time. Most people wishing to mitigate the risk of a medical problem causing financial crises invest in health insurance. This insurance is supposed to come into play during an illness and cover the costs of treatment. What people may not realize is that this coverage is not always paid when it is supposed to be. When this occurs the medical services provider will often demand payment directly from the patient.

Most people want to keep their doctors happy and pay these bills using their credit card. They are in fact using their credit card as an emergency form of insurance. Credit cards are designed for convenience not for economy. By suddenly placing these huge charges on the credit card the consumer is subjecting themselves to high interest charges that may in fact be very difficult to pay off. In some cases these patients do not even realize that their insurance company should have paid for these charges in the first place and may in fact simply be processing it late.

To make maters even worse it has been found that there are cases where a medical institution has in fact collected for the same medical procedure twice. Once from the insurance company and a second time from the patient directly. This practice is considered illegal in most places yet it is not often caught.

Consumers in this day and age need to be very cognizant of what type of insurance they are purchasing and who they are purchasing it from. Some institutions are very slow to pay and this can often lead to financial issues for the patient. It is also essential to know who it is that is providing you with medical services. The need to know for medical reasons is obvious but the need to know for financial considerations is often overlooked. Always make sure you are dealing with a well respected medical professional that is above board and has an excellent reputation.

Crazy conifers a cedar wood story

However, softwood producing trees such as the Cedar contain just two types of cell and have few water conducting vessels meaning it stays dryer in wet conditions than other conifers such as the Yew or the Cypress tree. They commonly reach 1500m in height and are 30 to 40m across. In their natural habitat, Cedar trees are exposed to mountain and monsoon climates, which mean that they are adept at surviving snow, drought, heavy rainfall and temperatures as low as -25?C.

Not only are Cedar trees aesthetically beautiful, but they produce wood which smells and looks lovely when crafted into furniture. This type of wood is ideal for outdoor furniture as it is resistant to decay and is protected by its own natural oils and resins that prepare the wood for harsh weather conditions. However, many cedar garden furniture items (particularly those used outdoors) are stained or treated every two to three years in order to give the wood those few extra years of protection against the elements. If left untreated, Cedar wood gradually ages and develops a greyish-silver colour. This looks good but means that the wood will not last as long as it would, had it been treated. An additional advantage of Cedar is that it is sparse (has a low density) and while it attempts to equalise the moisture within its wood and the air around it, it does not warp or crack as many other woods do. Cedar wood contains small pockets of air, which means that it doesn’t conduct heat as well as some other woods. This is ideal in summer when the air is warm, and the cedar furniture remains cool despite the weather.

Cedar wood is often chosen by carpenters and furniture manufacturers because of its low density and weight. It is easy to transport and very versatile, along with its weatherproof qualities and aesthetic appeal which makes it an ideal wood for outdoor furniture.

Western red Cedar wood is often chosen for furniture because of its attractive look. It has a straight grain and an almost terracotta shade. Unlike ‘white’ Cedar, its natural oils also repel moths and other insect pests such as ticks, fleas and termites which make it well suited for outdoor dog and cat pens or houses and small huts such as beachhouses.

It has also been tested in the US for its flame spread rating in order to determine how fast fire will burn through the material. The lower the rating, the slower the wood takes to burn, and Western red cedar wood’s flame spread rating is 98 which is considered low. So not only is red cedar wood perfect for outdoor furniture and structures, but it is very suitable for interior displays, wall panels and furniture too.

Questions and answers about article marketing

The following article is one of a series of articles which focus on Article Marketing, Affiliate Marketing and Internet Marketing. All of the articles are based on real experiences and research done over twenty years as a personal and business coach. They are also written in response to questions which I have been asked as well as address common challenges that people have with affiliate marketing, article marketing, internet marketing or running an online business in general. I sincerely hope that you find the following information of value. One idea, one tip, one clue can make all the difference.

Article Marketing - Your Answers To Questions On Article Marketing

Article marketing is probably the most effective list building and link building strategy in existence. Article directories allow you to include a resource box for every article you will submit. Inside this resource box, you could include a link to your website and specifically to your newsletter subscription form. If you submit just one article to 100 article directories, you'd immediately receive 100 back links to your website. There are thousands of article directories on the 'net today!

Now, let’s say you submit, for example, 5 articles to a hundred directories, you'll get 500 back links easily! The best part about this strategy is that quite a number of article directories have high page ranks. We're talking about PR4, PR5, and on occasion, PR7 websites! Having a link to your own website in a website which has a high page rank would give a significant boost to your own pages' search engine standing!

All seems terrific with article marketing, but as with everything else, there are growing concerns as to its real value.

Let's take a look at five of the most common questions which are asked about article marketing...

If I submit the same article to many article directories, won't it violate a search engine's policy against duplicate content?

No, it won't. Since we're dealing with high ranking websites, the search engines would assume that the submitted content is their original work. This is the reason why a lot of article directories are pretty confident about the articles they display. The problem that they encounter, really, is with regards to the credibility of their services.

They don't want to be known as a repository of junk content, that's why they have outlawed the posting of PLR articles as well as articles full of affiliate links.

If you always submit quality, informative content that readers are looking for, you’ll never have a cause for concern.

Does this mean that I could submit articles which I have already posted in my own web pages?

You need to take care here. The search engines will assume that the higher ranking websites are the originators of the content, your web pages would be distinguished as duplicates, and this could possibly lead to the de-indexing of your website or, at least, that particular article page. You wouldn't want this to happen.

========SIDEBAR========

Affiliate, Article and Internet Marketing in general isn't as easy as many would have us believe. I fully understand (through my own experiences) that it is a lot easier said than done. However, you are here, right now, because you have a desire to improve your business, grow your business, and be more successful. These articles are here with the sole intention of helping you to make the whole process a lot easier.

======END SIDEBAR======

Can I submit as many articles as possible to as many article directories as possible?

Yes, you could! In fact, this is very much advised, to build up your link popularity and secure for your website a great page rank.

However, please bear in mind that search engines, and Google in particular, become quite wary about a website that suddenly experiences a great increase in the number of its back links. It is advised that from the outset, you decide how many articles you can submit and at what intervals, then stick to it. Consistency is the key here.

Does article marketing really work?

Yes, definitely, article marketing does work! If your article's page views remain in low levels, ask yourself

Is your article title compelling or intriguing enough to want to read the whole article?

Is the actual content of your article interesting enough? Does it cater to a wide audience?

Is your article informative enough to consider recommendation?

Is your article readable enough to give your audience an easy time in digesting the information you want to share?

These are the factors that contribute to low page views. Doing some necessary editing to correct these problems will dramatically increase the number of times your article will be viewed.

Additionally, some article directories really attract a few visitors only. But the popular ones like ezinearticles. com , goarticles. com, articledashboard and isnare. com should give you hundreds of readers in a month's time.

How sure can I be that my article and resource box will be kept intact by people who will use it in their own websites or Ezines?

Unfortunately, you can never be sure. This is why you have to run your own check from time to time. Search for unique phrases in your article, and click on the results. Determine if the webmaster honored your resource box. If he or she did not, you could ask them to include the resource box, or you could file a complaint with the article directory so that they themselves could act on the matter. As always, Persistence and Vigilance are the k

Drug rehab treatment healing ideas

Drug Treatment Recovery Healing

My friend Susan was going on vacation for a month and asked me to substitute for her at the local drug rehab center at her Wednesday yoga and meditation class.

It truly was an experience I'll never forget as I watched people's bodies and minds relax. I was struck by the strong determination that was applied towards learning the different forms of breathing as well as various meditations. I think the residents found it helpful to see they could channel the same drive they had used to locate drugs to their own healing.

It's always good to use try and direct the natural tendencies you have for a higher purpose. For instance, an "addictive" personality can redirect this to areas such as meditation, exercise or writing a journal. This I have found is much better than fighting with oneself and trying to "stop" one's tendencies. This is one's passion and it should be used for one's evolution.

If you are taking yoga please keep in mind it's not about competing with others but in "stretching " yourself inwardly further than you thought you could go. If you can be patient when you hold a posture, that quality will also carry into daily life as well.

You also will develop tools you can use for stressful situations such as deep breathing, visualizations of your true potential and inner joy. Even if you only feel good for an hour

after doing some yoga or meditation , it is a center that grows and you can remember it when you become agitated around other residents or towards your parents.

Robin, a 20 year old, fighting prescription drug addiction said to me that she just wanted to ease the pain but realized that pain is a feeling she could watch. It really was wonderful to see the ability to watch one's mind that the residents developed with a little practice. In the east they return to the mind as a drunken monkey-not just wandering from thought to thought, but a drunken monkey stung by a scorpion. Sometimes it seems so restless and jumpy, plus out of control. Take a few moments to watch it and discover some true jewels.

A gift idea for your russian bride

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Analyze and think what can really excite your Russian bride. You can impress her with your present or just can give some feeling of pleasure and delight, or even disappoint her. Anyway, Oksanalove online-dating agency witnessed all the gift ups and downs. So, if you want to learn from others mistakes or follow others success than, here we go!

In our experience of watching after the development of our clients’ relationships we had a case when two people finally found each other. They seemed as they completely felt in love one with another. A groom was on his way to his bride’s home-country intending to marry her. On the first romantic meeting he brought a present with him - some pasta, ketchup, and spam and stuff what made her a bit angry and offended. Then she could just laugh at it asking herself if her man thinks she’s starving, or did he want some charity, may be she’s too skinny for him, etc. All this of course damaged their good relationships and gave the lady a negative impression of the man that she has chosen.

Absolutely ignore an idea of giving her clothes. The answer is simple - you don't know woman’s exact size and style. Besides, Russian style of clothes for women can be quite different from the abroad fashion. So, don't even bother to bring her any jeans, blouse or dress.

It’s amazing how much the presents can impact couples’ relationships! If you not sure you want to make something special for your special Russian bride than just make a pleasure for her.

A low cost and cute little presents:
You can find out how you can bring your girlfriend some chocolates in different boxes choose cute boxes – girls love it, etc. Candies are a nice little present and girls love sweets.

Gifts for women who have kids:
Please, think about things to give if woman has children. Something like cute tennis shoes would be a huge hit. Sport suite with a known brand, t-shirt from Addidas or Nike is also a nice present and will be a huge hit. If you get a heart of your woman’s baby – than you definitely will get your woman’s heart! If she has a small kid, then sweets will work well again.

Wonderful gift ideas for young and sexy women. If you want to make something special for her and want her to think of you more often - get her a good perfume. “BLV” – from BVLGARY suits the tastes of the younger girls, it comes in a blue bottle and absolutely loved by them. It’s a gorgeous and very sexy fragrance, kind of expensive, but very nice. You’ll love your lady to wear it! Besides, whenever she’s going to use it, she will subconsciously think of you in the way she can describe “BVL” odor. The thing is that young ladies like to wear something smooth, fresh, and not too sweet. MEXX woman or Jil Sander’s “PURE” line is also a great advantage.
“Victoria’s Secret” has nice body treatment products and perfumes also, it is not expensive at all but comes in beautiful present boxes and have excellent quality and fragrance.

Wonderful gift ideas if your woman 35+++ years old Chanelle 5 – is very elegant and kind of smart, created for older ladies.

Anyway, if you guys have any doubts or questions regarding the presents don't hesitate to ask Oksanalove dating agency staff. We’ll be happy to help and provide our clients with information!

Dating personals photo tips

You're ready to try online dating. You've polished your profile, and your best friend has concluded that you are so attractive that even they would like to date you. It's come to that time! Somebody online who posted a dating personal wants to see what you look like. What picture of yourself will you paint when you display a photo along with your profile?

There are a few guidelines that apply to online dating photos that you should observe which will improve your profile. These are as follows:

1. Do add at least one photo of yourself to your profile! If you don't, you're seriously putting yourself at a disadvantage. Many people search only for people who have uploaded photos. Still others don't like the idea of a "blind date," and won't go through with a meeting if they haven't seen what you look like.

2. Remember that you are trying to be a salesperson here; you're trying to sell yourself. Look at the photographs of other people on the online dating site. Is yours similar? If so, you will not stand out from the crowd! The photo you post should be good quality.

Do yourself a favour and forget the shot that someone took of you when you were at a nightclub last month, cut off just to one side where your ex was still in the photo. There are tons of photos like this, and they don't make people want to find out more! Your profile will be more attractive than if you hadn't posted a photo, probably, but you're still not going to stand out from the crowd and do yourself justice. Ask yourself what you would want to see if you were a member of the target audience (usually the opposite sex), looking at your profile for the first time, and be critical.

At the very least, have a photo taken of yourself for the express purpose of using with your dating profile. You don't need to have had it done professionally, although it certainly wouldn't hurt! I suggest you find yourself someone who has a digital camera (or have them borrow yours) and can take photos well, and offer them a pint or three to take several photos of you. Get them to take a fair number of photos (20 or so), perhaps on different settings, because not all of them may work well, and because you then have a good selection to choose from.

Choose your backdrop carefully! A nice simple approach is to go to a field or a beach when it's near sunset, and have photos taken of yourself against this background. The background you choose should show yourself in a romantic or fun setting, and your clothes should be appropriate to that setting.

How about an interesting alternative? If you know somebody who is good with art packages such as Paint Shop Pro, have them paint out the background, and change the photo so that it looks like a spotlight is shining on you!

3. It may be a good idea to try and improve the photo, as is often done of photos of models in advertising. If you have any obvious, but small, disfigurements, these could be airbrushed out with a painting package. If you can't do it yourself, you probably know someone who can do it for you. Don't go overboard with this; make sure the photo still looks like you!

4. Don't be tempted to lie by posting a photo of George Clooney or Catherine Zeta Jones, unless of course you really are one of those people! The photo must be one of yourself, otherwise when it comes to a face-to-face meeting, the relationship could be over before it's even begun!

5. This tip is not well-known. Add a border to your photo, coloured the same as the hyperlinks on the target site. The reason for this is partly to make your photo stand out, but also because most photos shown on online dating agency sites are also links to your profile. Your photo will then look like a link, and it increases the chance of it being clicked on. If there is any "outside" to your photo, this should then have the exact same colour as the background of the site. This can be found by using Alt-Print Screen to grab an image of your web browser when on the dating site, then pasting it into an art package, and identifying the colour from there. (Note that some online dating agency sites already supply borders around images; the trick will not work on these.)

6. If you have several photos of you doing interesting activities and the site permits it, post one photo of you doing each activity in addition to your head-and-shoulders shot. For example, photos of you skiing while on holiday; photos showing you braving the rapids in white-water rafting; photos of you doing your favourite sport. They help to prove that you do the things you say you do in your profile, and they make your profile more interesting!

Dog kennel

Selecting the right dog kennel can be difficult, especially if it’s something you’ve never purchased before. But once you have a better understanding of the reasons why purchasing a dog kennel makes sense, it’ll be easier to know which type is right for your dog.

First of all, unlike what some people believe, putting a dog inside a dog kennel is not inhumane. The enclosed environment actually offers many dogs a sense of comfort, especially if a kennel is used from a young age. Think of it as the dog’s home, the place where it can go to relax and unwind. Better yet, think of today’s kennel as a modern remake of the traditional doghouse, updated for the 21st century.

Second, a dog kennel is an invaluable training tool. When a dog is locked inside, it learns to control its bowel movements. How? Dogs by nature don’t like to relieve themselves in the same place where they sleep. Learning to “hold it” until it’s allowed out of the kennel is one of the most effective, and humane, methods of house training any dog.

Third, a dog kennel gives a dog owner a sense of relief knowing that while gone, the bored dog won’t fill its time destroying the rest of the house or the yard. In addition, if you plan to travel with your pet companion, a kennel is an absolute necessity.

The last real consideration is whether you want a kennel designed for outdoors or indoors. Both types are readily available. Inside kennels are fairly basic. They’re rectangular in shape and usually made with wire or plastic and they’ll have a secure locking mechanism.

Outdoor models range from basic to luxurious, literally, and you’ll find wide a range in price. Like anything, the more features the dog kennel has, the more it will cost. If you plan on keeping dogs for years to come, you’re better off spending a bit more on a well-constructed dog kennel that will last long and that will accommodate your dog’s changing needs.

7 natural stone pebble projects for every home

Natural stone pebbles are becoming extremely popular in homes because of their wide range of colors and uses. Here are a few ideas for use in your own home.

Japanese Gardens

Japanese Gardens and known for their peacefulness and tranquillity. This style of garden uses specific plants as well as rocks and water to create this effect. Often these gardens are small in scale and are incorporated into an overall garden design rather than being the whole garden.

Decorative Pots

Placing some pebbles around the top of a potted plant can make indoor plants more attractive. Consider what part of the potted plant you want to make the focus. You can use a decorative ceramic pot as well. Decide whether you want matching or contrasting colors in the pot and the pebbles you choose. The pebbles and chosen pot should help focus your eye on the plant you have chosen.

Vases

Pebbles are also very effective used in the bottom of vases. Glass vases in particular look superb with some colored natural stone in the bottom. The pebble base also helps hold the arranged flowers in place. Decorative vases make great table decorations for dinner parties.

Paths and Drives

Paths and drives become very low maintenance when covered with a topping of small natural stone pebbles. The pebble size you choose needs to take into account how the path or drive will be used. Heavy car traffic or foot traffic areas need smaller stones as they are more comfortable underfoot and better for cars to drive over. Gravel drives and paths should have retaining edging to hold the stones in place. Drives and paths need to be topped up with extra stone occasionally. They are very durable and much nicer looking than a plain old concrete driveway.

Water Features

It seems now that everyone wants a garden water feature. They can be very small or quite large and bold but always add an element of tranquillity to any garden. When planning a water feature you can incorporate natural stone in a variety of ways. Larger stones around the edge of the feature can add character. Pebbles can also be used to cover the base of the water feature and to cover up any cords or pumps that are used to power it. Before choosing your stone remember to wet a sample as this is how it will look in your water feature.

Ponds

The same rule applies with ponds to wet your sample and check the colour of the stone. Natural stone is normally dusty when collected and when the dust comes off the real color is revealed. Ponds look great with built-up edging. You can use a variety of materials including feature rocks, wood, metal and many others. You can also mix and match various sized stones for a more natural look.

Pebbles as Mulch

Mulching is something more gardeners are doing in the garden. Basically it involves adding a layer of material over the top of your soil to aid with water retention. This means less watering which saves time and also water supplies. Not everyone has an endless supply of water or the enthusiasm to maintain lawns and pebbles are a great alternative, particularly in naturally dry areas.

Weeding in garden beds is greatly reduced. It is quite easy to pull the few weeds that attempt to grow among the pebbles. As the plants mature and fill up the planting spaces there is less room for weeds to find a place to grow.

To stop the grass from coming up through the pebble mulch paths we have found that a heavy layer of newspaper and then a layer of plastic or weed mat on top works very well. The newspapers and the plastic help to retain moisture, another important reason for mulching. On top of this plastic the pebbles that were recently in the planting holes are spread in a thick layer. Larger flat rocks are used as edging.

Holiday home insurance one of the decisions associated with buying a holiday home

Buying a holiday home has never been easier. Today, you can hop on the Internet and find the home of your dreams without even leaving the comfort of your living room. Even better still, you can then use a search and compare website on the Internet to find you the best possible deal for a second home mortgage. There is nothing to it with very little time and effort to put in unless you wish to. However, you need to make a few decisions that are associated with buying a holiday home before you can put in an offer and get a mortgage and one of those is holiday home insurance.

Holiday home insurance is different to both traditional home insurance and buy-to-let insurance, so don’t make the mistake and think that you can cut costs and corners by getting the wrong type. A specialist broker will be able to help you find the right type of holiday home insurance.

Other considerations when buying a holiday home include the following: Where is the first place that comes to mind when you think of buying a holiday home? Although gut instincts are not always correct in terms of buying a house, there must be reasons behind considering buying a holiday home in a certain area. When you have the reasons why you would want to live in a certain are then you can begin to build upon that.

You should consider both popular locations and other locations that resemble them because individuals buy homes in certain areas for a reason. Crime rate, natural environmental hazards, proximity to the beach, proximity to shops and climate are all factors that should be considered when buying a holiday home, but the list is not limited to them. For an idea of where Britons choose to look into when buying a holiday home, the facts and figures are worthy of consideration.

Approximately 30% of all holiday homes are in the UK, 16% are in Spain and 7% in France, with the remaining 47% being spread between countries like the USA, Italy, Australia, Ireland, Greece and other similar countries. After deciding upon the country, your choice of area will largely depend on what kind of place you would wish to live in – beach, town, city or quiet village?

You final decision when buying a holiday home should depend on what kind of home you would like to live in. Whether your choice is a bungalow, condo, apartment or cottage, you can find the perfect house for you and then get on with the easy part of buying a holiday home.

Then all you need is the right holiday home insurance.

Golf jobs tee off a lifestyle career

As a sport, the entertainment capacity of golf is beyond doubt. However, what a career in golf offers is much more than the entertainment factor. The big daddy of lifestyle sports, golf tenders monetary benefits, fame, travel, freedom and many more objects of desire.

The rewards of a career in the golf industry are numerous. Nothing is more desirable for a golfer than the opportunity to play golf daily and remain connected to it in every sense of the word. A golf job allows you to enjoy an entertainment packed lifestyle and get the advantage of converting your hobby into a rewarding career. For the passionate lovers of the game, a golf job is something that makes their world go round.

The apparent monetary benefits are another great attraction of golf jobs. Where else can you make $500,000 in a week? Besides the hefty prize monies, there are opportunities for lucrative commercial deals as well. Remember, this is the sport that made Tiger Woods the highest paid professional athlete in the world, with an estimated income of $87 million in the year 2005 alone.

Most people do not get to travel enough, even if they want to, just because their jobs don't allow them to. Here again, professional golfers belong to a different breed. They love to play new courses, and they travel regularly to some of the most beautiful places in the world because their work demands so.

The golf industry offers a lot of career opportunities. Apart from the 18,000 golf courses in the United States, there are numerous affiliated businesses. For any golf job, understanding the industry is as important as understanding the game. Professional schools that specialize in golf are a good place to start. Many world renowned professional golfers have reached where they are today after honing their skills at golf career academies.

Looking at golf from a different perspective, a player's career is just one of the several opportunities that golf can offer a lover of the game. Those passionate about the game can stay connected to it while applying their professional skills to other aspects linked to it. Golf offers career opportunities in sales, marketing, golf teaching and management. From professional to club house jobs, golf course maintenance to health and leisure jobs, golf can offer wide prospects to an aspirant. So if not a gifted player, you can still tee off a golf career as a golf course manager, a fitness specialist, a sales manager, or a green keeper.

The golf business today and the game itself, seek golf educated professionals. More than an understanding of the game, what you require is comprehensive knowledge in different types of golf facilities and related businesses and operations. For anyone who seeks a golf job, it is as important to acquire this knowledge as the mastery in the game.

High blood pressure the silent killer

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is very important to maintain a health and enhanced overall well-being. Blood pressure is the force that is exerted by circulating blood on the walls of the blood vessels. It is typical for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day, but if stays high, then high blood pressure is experienced. The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. Medical experts agree that the normal blood pressure is between 110/70 and 125/80. When a blood pressure is high, it may damage the blood vessels, heart, and kidneys. These conditions may lead to heart attack, stroke, and other serious problems. Hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it does not cause symptoms while it causing the said damages.

About 90-95 percent of the causes of hypertension is unknown. But several factor may lead to high blood pressure like obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, family background of high blood pressure, eating too much salt, and getting older. One's blood pressure may also rise if he or she lives a sedentary lifestyle and is not eating sufficient potassium and calcium. Hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) or thickening of the artery wall, and too much contraction of the small arteries may also cause hypertension.

High blood pressure does not usually cause symptoms that is why this ailment can go undetected for many years. This may result in progressive damage to major organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, and blood vessels. In addition to these conditions, high blood pressure can cause the tiny capillaries in the eye to bleed. However, symptoms of high blood pressure are noticeable in some people. These symptoms may include headache, blurred vision, nausea, and chronic fatigue.

Treatment for high blood pressure depends on how high the blood pressure is. Health conditions like diabetes, or whether any organs have been damaged are critical in treating high blood pressure. Individuals with high blood pressure may lower their blood pressure by making healthy changes in their daily activities and food regimens. Medication can be taken if those lifestyle changes don't work.

Here are some of the lifestyle changes that are essential in preventing high blood pressure

Lose extra weight

Eat less salt

Exercise

Limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women and lighter-weight men

Get 3,500 mg of potassium in your diet every day. Fresh, unprocessed whole foods have the most potassium. These foods include meat, fish, nonfat and low-fat dairy products, and many fruits and vegetables.

Consume diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products and is low in fat

High blood pressure is a health ailment that many have taken for granted. This condition took the lives of over 40,000 Americans in 2002 alone and about one in three adults suffer from high blood pressure. People who are concerned about their health should pay attention to their blood pressure. But before making major adjustments in one's lifestyle, individuals who wish to lower or maintain their blood pressure should seek the approval of doctors and other health experts. With the proper lifestyle and food regimen, high blood pressure may not be a problem.

How evil gains entry

With fierce crime on an increase, eager For Sale By Owners, are often slack in their judgment of just how dangerous such a thrift venture is. Husbands become homicides, wives are ravaged, families forever devastated, all because invincible men are anxious to sell homes themselves to people who-they only want to believe–are qualified buyers.

What would For Sale By Owners do if they knew they were really buying trouble?

As a retired real estate broker, I feel qualified to shed some light on this, all too often, evaded area of concern. Most agents are reluctant to tell people just how dangerous it is to open their door to strangers. Understandably, people who must sell homes would, if they can avoid it, rather not pay sales commission fees. Of course, it is absolutely within a consensual couple’s rights to sell their home themselves.

But all too often, the man saying, "We can sell it ourselves, Honey," pops a FOR SALE BY OWNER sign in the yard, and goes off to work. His complacent companion places an ad in the local newspaper, fields the phone, and sets appointments for supposedly "Interested buyers" to come see their home. The danger is cloaked in ignorance.

I've had women, former clients, tell me they had prayed that no one would call, and after peeking out the curtains, then refused to answer the door. In their efforts to be professional, most agents do not wish to alarm or alienate sellers who might list with them later. I am retired and have no such vested interest.

Even Realtors® recognize they are placing themselves at risk when showing houses. Every year, many are abducted, robbed, murdered, or raped in this country. NAR®, the National Association of Realtors, cautions agents to be vigilant, wary with whom they work. Often well-informed agents will no longer do “Open Houses” because it is simply too hazardous. The commission reward of marketing a home in this manner is disproportional to the risk.

Evil is denied entry when we bar the door.

Viral marketing at its best

You may have heard of this before and for those that haven’t, it’s where you give away something for free that someone can also give away for free. If successful, your piece of information can spread like a virus, enticing thousands to buy from you.

So what’s the secret. You need to release something valuable that can compare to another course selling for at least $100, for free. It really has to be exceptional for people to pass it on to their friends. Quality not quantity, the report needs to be excellent and if it’s long, that’s a bonus. Ellaborate as much as you can. It’s the awesome principle, “you have to give before you get”, in action.

You can start with a free report or develop a complete course. Keep your competitors in mind and write your material for them. If they can send one of your articles out to their database and put their affiliate links alongside it, their chances of making a sale are increased. In the same token, if the reader likes your article and clicks on your link, you have a chance of signing them up to your mailing list.

Work alongside your competitors and see them as partners rather than competitors. They have abetter chance to earn money by promoting your products and receiving a share rather than their own product all the time. Lift up your competitors and customise your material so that it adds value to what they’re doing. By keeping in mind how you can promote them, your potential partners will be more excited about partnering with you. Make sure their product adds value to your customers and vice versa. You’ll make a lot more money by working alongside partners in the same industry than you will alone. Think of all competitors as potential partners, find out how to add value to them, work on your free material and watch your profits soar!

A new affordable therapy for add adhd

All the research over the past 40 years shows clearly that EEG biofeedback training (aka Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy training) is by far the most effective therapy for ADD/ADHD with a "cure" rate of 85% or greater.

However, at an average cost of $4000+ per ADHD child, the mid or low income family simply cannot afford this proven therapy. Ritalin and other dangerous drugs has become the "standard treatment". None of these ever solve the basic problem, but they allow the teachers to control the classroom, and sedate the ADD/ADHD kids. All such drugs have serious side effects.

Now a new therapy called Neuroliminal Training has also proved by extensive volunteer testing (four tests since 2004) that it does exactly the same thing as EEG BF, namely change brain wave(s) amplitude by what is called beneficial brainwashing.

Instead of going to a clinic costing from $75-$250 per half hour, sitting in front of a computer screen with electrodes attached to the head about 50-60 times, Neuroliminal Training uses a subliminal messaging CD that is played all night every night for a few months. (Many like it so much for good sleep that they continue playing the CD.)

In a test in 2006, 23 volunteers conducted an 8 week test, and all 23 improved just as would be expected using EEG BF. In earlier tests in 2004 and 2005, similar results were seen. The similiarities between the expensive EEG BF Training and the inexpensive Neuroliminal Training , especially in success rates are remarkable.

The inventor, and patent holder, Dr Phil Bate, is presently starting a new volunteer test. He is accepting a limited number of volunteers with the following mental/physical problems:

Alzheimer's

PTSD

OCD and anxiety

Schizophrenia

Depression

He will also accept a limited number of autism and epileptic cases for this test in order to obtain more data on both. (A previous test showed success in symptom improvement for 9 autism and 2 epileptic cases).

Dr Bate is a retired orthomolecular psychologist who invented Neuroliminal Training, a better way to change brain wave amplitudes.

drbate. com

Neuroliminal-ADHD. com

Article marketing strategies selecting the best sites ezines for your article marketing campaign

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Writing and marketing articles online is probably the most effective, most cost-effective way to publicize your website, and promote your products and services online. The Web is a printing press with an insatiable appetite for articles written by experts. There are literally millions of websites and ezines that are begging for good articles. They want people to submit good articles to them. They even search sites on the web for permission to use articles.

So, how do you know which sites to select?

Through my years of experience, and many conversations with the top Internet Marketers, in order to have the greatest impact, you need to use a 3-tiered article marketing approach targeting:

1. The major article directories like Ezinearticles. com, Goarticles. com, Ideamarketers. com and ZapContent. com
2. Smaller niche directory sites that are related to your content
3. Niche ezine and website publishers who need and want quality related content that will add value to their website or email newsletter audience

My consulting clients ask me many times, “ What is the best way to find ezines and websites that are the most read so my article gets the most exposure?” That should not be the first question you ask yourself. Yes, you do want to find websites that are highly visited and ezines that are the most read – but more importantly, you want to focus on finding websites and ezine publishers within your specific niche that have strong emotional connections to their audience.

Most likely, you are already visiting their websites or subscribing to their ezines. If you don’t know who has a great ezine related to your industry niche, there are plenty of ezine directories like bestezines. com on the net that can guide you.

Other strategies include:

- Research your competitors – where are there articles being published?

- Perform a Google search. Just type in your industry or article topic followed by the words article submission. That’s how I helped our client’s book jump to the #2 spot on the NY Times Best Sellers List. I typed into Google, “health article submissions”, “medical article submissions”, and “thyroid dysfunctions article submissions” and discovered (among many other sites) the contact information for an About. com editor – one of the top 50 sites on the net today. After receiving the submission, the editor blasted an email book promotion to her entire list, giving Mark Hyman MD 1500 additional opt-in subscribers and much higher sales in just one day.

- Think about which organizations, your audience may belong to. If you’re a sales lead expert, like our client, Mac McIntosh, then the chances of your audience belonging to an organization such as the American Marketing Association are very, very high. With more than 200,000 registered users and more than 2 million visits each year from a wide range of influential decision makers, Mac McIntosh’s soon to be published article on the American Marketing Association’s website will provide him with an excellent opportunity to connect with the marketing community.

- And, don’t forget to check sites for magazines within your niche. More and more publications, are looking for fresh, new content for their website, to drive traffic up in order to sell more print magazines in the long run. This constant updating of articles found only on the website and not in their print publications means more opportunities for writers and experts. An article written by you published on sites like Entrepreneur Magazine and Mothering Magazine will give your company the vast amount of exposure and credibility it needs.

Follow these strategies and you will have a sound article marketing campaign.