Getting To Know Google

Dali Singh

Having greatly benefited from my relationship with Google in the past several years, I am dedicating this article to the search engine superstar.

I have to be brutally honest and relay that our friendship hasn't always been rosy. I got to know Google several years back, when it was just a small fish in a big pond. I started to analyze its every move and realized that Google is a fickle, clever and extremely mysterious being. Still, I decided to get more acquainted.
Here are a few things I learned along the way.

When it comes to logic, Google is the queen

In other words, avoid participating in anything that may blacklist you from this search engine, including keyword stuffing, link farms and hosting 50 "sister" sites on the same server. Keyword stuffing doesn't refer merely to the content of your site, but also the alt tags, headers, URLs and any additional areas of your web site.

Google likes to stay focused

When optimizing the individual pages of your Web site, try to hone in on one or two relevant keywords per Web page. Analyze each page and identify which keyword would be most suitable.

If you decide to optimize for two keywords per page, make sure that they are similar in context. For example, if you are optimizing for the key phrase "insurance leads," you may also consider optimizing for "insurance sales leads" within the same page.

Google loves to travel

It is commonly known that Google loves links, both inbound and outbound. When it comes to search engine optimization, lots of research has focused on inbound links, but little has focused on the number of links on an actual page. It appears that Google favors sites that have several internal and outbound links over those that don't have links.

If you have any doubts about this theory, simply do a search on any high-volume keyword or phrase within this search engine and analyze the first few sites that come up. Notice how the majority of them have numerous internal links on the main pages of their Web site.

Google is popular and expects you to be, too

The more popular your site is across the Web, the more Google will favor you. Obviously, having several high-quality inbound links to your site is key in achieving higher rankings. When identifying Web sites for inbound links, target the ones that are highly relevant to your site. For example, if you run a jewelry site, look for sites that are purely informational on the topic of jewelry or gemstones. Also, make sure that the sites you decide to partner with have a good PageRank (at least a 5) and online presence.

To save yourself a lot of hassle, conduct a keyword search relevant to your business and target the Web sites that show up on the first and second pages of Google (weeding out the competition, of course); contact the Web masters of those sites and tell them about your company and find useful ways to compensate them for adding your company's information on their site.

If you have an affiliate program, don't be shy to pitch it. If you have an online advertising budget, offer them a pay-per-click deal or monthly advertising fee for promoting your Web site. Note that partnering with these sites or purchasing ads should complement your overall marketing and business development strategy-and not be used merely to get link value.

Google gets bored easily

Regardless of whether your site is informational, e-commerce or just a sophisticated version of a business card, having quality content is crucial for search engine optimization. Adding to that factor is how often you update your site's content.

If you run a site that has new content added on a monthly basis (do not overdo it), then eventually the Google "freshbot" will start visiting your site more often and index your new content into the database. The more content you update, the more Google visits your site and indexes it quicker. Do not refresh your content simply for search engine optimization purposes, but do take the effort to keep interesting articles, blogs and entries to keep your visitors coming back.

If you haven't already noticed, keeping pace with Google is not an easy undertaking. It takes a certain level of knowledge, skill and creativity to truly benefit from this relationship. The rest is up to the stars.


Dali Singh is the Managing Director for Blueliner Marketing, a full service marketing and Internet consultancy. Visit www.bluelinermarketing.com or email her directly at dali @ bluelinermarketing.com.

Child Birthday Party Game Ideas
Mike Dougherty "Grandpa Mike"

Need some fun child birthday party game ideas that will turn your child's party into an instant success? Here are some great games that your party guests will love.

The Secret Of The Mummy

Divide your party guests into two teams... Have each team choose a player to be "the Mummy."

Then give each team three rolls of toilet paper... Then start your party theme music and see which team is first to wrap up their Mummy from head to toe... To make things more fun, you might want to give them a two minute time limit... A great child birthday party game idea!

Whats That Smell

Blindfold each party guest one at a time, then place something in a paper bag for them to smell and see if they can guess what it is...

Try a peppermint, gum, toothpaste, cheese, a slice of pizza, cherry candy, grape candy, a banana, peanut butter or something milder like a slice of bread.

The Great Detective

A child birthday party game idea they're sure to love.

Have your birthday child go into another room and make a slight change in their appearance... Put on something different, one different sock, reposition their hat, or take off or add some jewelry... Then have them come back in the room with their party guests and see which guest is "the great detective" and can figure out what's different.

Quick Change Artist

Give each child a bag that contains a big over-sized shirt, big pants, big socks and a big knit or floppy hat... Start your party theme music and say "ready - set - go!"

Each player starts putting the baggy clothes over their own clothing.,.. The first one to put on all the clothes from the bag is "the quick change artist."

You might want to have your party guests remove their shoes to make it easier to get the big socks on their feet.

Sneak Attack

Have your birthday child sit in a chair in the middle of the room and place a blindfold over their eyes... Place an object under the chair. It can be a stuffed animal, a toy, a small bag of candy or a wrapped gift.

Keep everyone quiet as your party guests try to sneak up (one at a time) and take the object under the chair... If your birthday child tags them, that player is out and the next player must try and take the object... Your birthday child can move their arms around, but don't let them use their feet.

Silly Dress-Up

A great child birthday party game idea for everyone.

Take lots of wild - colored shirts, pants, hats, socks, scarves, jackets and anything else you can think of and have your party guests see who can come up with the silliest, funniest, craziest costume.

Wild Animal Act

Write the name of an animal on a piece of paper, fold the paper in half (so you can't see what's written) then put all the pieces of paper in a bowl... Have one party guest take a piece of paper out of the bowl and act out that animal... The first player to guess the animal correctly then takes a piece of paper from the bowl and acts out that animal... Keep playing until all your party guests have had a turn.

Wacky Balloon Race

Divide your party guests into two teams... Have one player from each team put a balloon between their knees... When you say "go," start your theme music and both players race to the finish line without dropping or popping their balloon.

If a balloon pops or the player drops their balloon, that player has to start all over again with a new balloon...

Every player on each team must race with the balloon. The team that finishes first wins.

Child Birthday Party Game Ideas

You can vary each of these games to make them appropriate for the age group of your party...

Have fun, laugh, enjoy, take lots of pictures and shoot plenty of video!

Mike Dougherty has lots of experience putting together successful birthday parties for his children. For more great information and tips on kid birthday party ideas, take a quick look at Fun-Kid-Birthday-Parties.com

Sex Toys - There's One For Everyone

Steven S. Ng

Dongs & Dildos

The most common of sex toys, dildos or dongs are designed for stimulation by vaginal and anal insertion and stroking. Dildos come in many shapes, sizes, color, texture and other accessories. Dildos do not vibrate and any vibrating sex toys would be categorized under vibrators.


Vibrators

Vibrators are any sex toys that vibrate. These are mainly designed for intense stimulation on the clitoris or vulva. Some can be used for insertion and some for external use only. Vibrators are commonly combined with other sex toys so you have vibrating dildos, vibrating eggs, vibrating undies and some even comes with a hands free kit or a remote control. They can be powered by battery or electricity. Vibrators are also commonly used in combination with other sex toys such as dildos.


BDSM

Bondage & Sadomasochistic. Pleasure from consensual inflicting or submitting to physical abuse. There are a variety of bondage gear and S&M toys designed for BDSM play. These include blindfolds, costumes, cuffs and leashes, whips, body jewelry, clips. An excellent range of Bondage Gear can be found at www.stockroom.com Or if you are new to BDSM, you can read all about it here


Lubricants

Potions and lubricants complement lovemaking and it blends well too with sex toys. Most sex toys have an increased effect when used with lubricants. There are three main varieties of lubricants; water based, silicone based and petroleum based. Water and silicone based lubricants are safe to use with condoms. Petroleum based lubricants such as Vaseline shouldn't be used with latex materials, such as condoms and diaphragms, as they can break down the latex material. Lubricants can also be used for body massages (massage oils). They come in a variety of aromatic, flavored and even edible lubes.


Toys For Men

Until quite recently, sex toys have been focused on women. Toys for men are designed for added stimulation and to create heightened sexual fulfillment skills. These toys can be used to help achieve harder erections, for solo masturbation or for men to men action. Some of the catergories in toys for men include cock rings, penis pumps, love dolls, penis extenders, and other novelty items. Some love dolls are designed after real life porn stars and are extremely lifelike. Toys for men are also widely used during BDSM play.


Aphrodisiacs

Alternative energy booster, either herbal or tonic, designed to improve sexual vitality and sexual desire in men and women. They can be used to achieve a stronger erection or to create a sexual desire. Some natural aphrodisiacs includes yohimbe, ginseng, deer velvet, and other herbal extracts. Aphrodisiacs and sex toys are perfect for creating a heightened sexual satisfaction. Read more about aphrodisiacs.

Anal Toys

Anal toys for rear penetration comes in a variety of silicone or non-silicone and vibrating or non-vibrating toys. Unlike dildos, anal toys usually comes with a flanged base or attached to a string to prevent accidental slippages. Butt plugs and anal beads are the more common of anal toys. Some anal toys can also be used for vaginal insertion. Just be sure to slip a condom over when switching from anal to vaginal.


Harnesses

Harnesses are specially designed straps that enables sex toys to be attached. They can be worn by a man or a women so they can keep their hands free. Harnesses are either strapped to the thighs or hips and can be used with a matching dildo.


Others

Sex toys and human sexuality is limited only by our imagination. Some of the sex toys or sexual aids that are not categorized in the above are love swings, erotic games, edibles, safer sex (condoms), female condoms, genital jewelry and other novelty items.

If you would like to take a look at the various sex toys, you can visit:

http://www.sextoysnirvana.com


Steven consults and provides advice to the online store http://www.SexToysNirvana.com which provides various adult toys and novelty products.

How to Write to Mars and Venus!
Jaruda Boonsuwan

There's Yin, and there's Yang. There's a man, and there's a woman.

You can't live without one or another. And let's face it. We're not the same!

So when you're writing your ads or sales letters, you should keep in mind that, "Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus". I know....I know! Although men don't enjoy that book as much as women do, the nature of gender differences is unarguable. We were not born the same....that's all.

There's always a psychological barricade based on our gender differences. You can't write to men, thinking they're from Venus. Likewise, you can't write to women, thinking they're from Mars. You can't let them collide!

Always remind yourself what it is that keeps them glued to your page! Then make a list....

** For men, the top things on their minds are sports, cars, high-tech toys, computer games, politics and finance.

** As for women, the top things on their minds are fashion, beauty, diet, celebrities, horoscope and jewelry.

Now, what you can do is do a little research. Go buy a few magazines that are not in your area of expertise. Or if you like, you can just ask your boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives or even your kids about the latest trends. I guarantee you'll get a lot of eye-opening, cutting-edge ideas.

Notice the words, adjectives or technical terms they use. Don't forget to remember the names of important persons in that particular field. Get a glimpse of what's HOT and who's COOL! This way when you write, your prospects will feel that you're NO ALIEN. They'll feel that you're part of the GANG!

Suppose you're targeting male prospects, mention something eye-catching like:

Nascar, Formula One, Ferrari, DowJones, Nasdaq, Bill Gates, Tiger Woods, Michael Schumacher, Sammy Sosa, Michael Jordan, .....

This will not only reduce their "Defense Mechanism", but will also trigger their buying interests.

Now suppose you're targeting female audience, bring up instant magnetic charms like:

Prada, Chanel, Hermes, Ungaro, Jennifer Lopez, Brad Pitt, Enrique Iglesias, Slim Fast, beauty secrets, diamond, star style, princess, the future,....

This will keep them curious and eager to finish reading your sales copies.

**HERE'S HOW TO PUT IT TO WORK!

If you're writing a classified ad, you could write the same content, with a slight difference. This way, you'll have 2 slightly different ads to target men and women -- SEPERATELY!

For example, here is an ad targeting male audience ....

"Unveil the Formula One Secret You Can Instantly Copy to Turbocharge Your Site and Easily Turn It into a Hole-in-One Business that Earns You Homerun Profits -- 100% Faster than Tiger Woods' Swing...Guaranteed!"

With a slight change to it, you'll have an ad targeting female audience...

"Uncover the Time-tested Secret You Can Instantly Copy to Make Over Your Site and Easily Turn It into a Hot-selling Business that Earns You Magic Profits -- You Can Buy Yourself 2 Prada Bags a Day....100% Guaranteed!"

You'll see that in the ad for men, I use the word "turbocharge" to associate with auto racing. And because men like SPEED.

And in the ad for women, I use the word "time-tested" to associate with beauty. And because women like SECURITY.

See how easy it is you can create 2 "TARGETED" classified ads in just a minute? You surely can create more targeted ads like these -- in NO time at all.

P.S. Don't forget whom you're writing to! A Mars or a Venus?



The author, Jaruda Boonsuwan, is offering one-of-its-kind copywriting e-course -- at no charge. She reveals deadly-effective secrets to writing killer sales copies at http://www.groundbreakcopywriting.com

The Jewelry Box: a perfect companion to all your precious valuables

Angela Davis

A jewelry box is the perfect companion to all your beautiful jewelry pieces. You can use it not only for keeping your ornaments but also for storing those precious trinkets and items which you care for very deeply.

There are some things which cannot be evaluated in terms of money, these are small fragile things which in some way have touched your life and are of immense significance. A jewelry box is a safe haven for all those little things. A place where you can keep those small treasures which cannot be bought with money.

A good jewelry box is most often a beautiful handcrafted piece. It is available in various finishes and textures. Starting from warm mahogany wood, rose wood, to matt silver, there is a jewelry box in almost every conceivable material and color. Some of these materials used for the creation of your jewelry box include wood, glass, metal, and porcelain. The one that most are accustomed to is the wooden flip top lids with the musical song that lightly plays in the background. However, there have been changes and improvements in the making of a jewelry box, and there are now very beautifully made wooden jewelry boxes made from dark cherry wood, and there is now also style of jewelry box that is being made from carved and polished marble.

You can choose from a very wide range and pick one which suits your taste and pocket at the same time. The jewelry box has a soft lining of velvet inside, such that the precious things you store in it are not damaged in any way. Some are antique pieces, which have been crafted by master craftsmen and are collector's items. Others are made by established firms who specialize only in making these. Still others can be found at local stores made by individual craftsmen or by bulk manufacturers.

If you are to purchase a jewelry box for yourself, or as a gift for some body else, it is important to know what kind you want and what kind is out there on the market, and which one suits you the best to fulfill your needs.

A jewelry box is a wonderful possession to have and to hold your valuable items. It is a wonderful way to hold your jewelry and each box has the potential to be your own, personal piece in which not only can you store valuable items but also the memories associated with it. It is not just a place to house your treasured valuables; it is also a beautiful piece which can be passed on from one generation to another as a precious heirloom.

A jewelry box is available in various price ranges starting from those that are commonly available in stores to unique pieces which can be bought only in renowned auction houses. Whatever your choice, the jewelry box is a beautiful object to have and to give as a gift.

It is one of those unique pieces which bring to mind an old world charm. There is an intriguing sense of timelessness and a very rich heritage associated with a jewelry box. In a way it is the caretaker of our individual legacy. A place cherished and suffused with the warm glow of memories.

Looking for information about Jewelry?
Go to: http://www.merryjewelry.com
'Merry Jewelry' is published by Angela Davis -
The Complete Jewelry Resource Directory
Check out more Jewelry articles at: http://www.merryjewelry.com/archive


Hill tribe silver jewelry from northern Thailand
Susi at Jewelry Crossings

Hill tribe silver jewelry from northern Thailand, though hundreds of years old in its distinct design, works well accessorizing even the most up-to-date fashion trend. Hill tribe bracelets, for instance, can feel classic or contemporary or ethnic, depending upon their individual motif and design.
Over 100 years ago, the Hilltribe peoples migrated south from China into what are now Burma, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand. The main profession of all these tribes is farming, and all of them tend to migrate whenever they feel that the soil at their present location is becoming depleted.
Approximately twenty distinct tribes of semi-nomadic peoples, collectively called hill tribes, live in the mountains along the Burmese and Laotian borders of northern Thailand. The largest and most prominent hill tribes are the H'mong, Akha, Lisu, Lahu, Meo, and Karen. Culturally the tribes are of interest because their relative isolation has enabled them to retain almost unchanged customs and traditions that go back centuries.
Each tribe is district, with its own culture, religion, language, art, and dress. With Thailand undergoing rapid modern development, it is difficult yet to say whether these tribes will continue in there traditional ways of life, or whether they will eventually be absorbed into the surrounding and ever more-encroaching Thai society.
A rich part of their cultural tradition is the making and wearing of silver jewelry. What once was a artistic skill honed in the tiny tribal villages in the mountains of northern Thailand now can be found produced in the factories of Thailand's second largest city, Chang Mai. On Wualai Street in Chang Mai all manners of silver jewelry and silver objects are crafted. Intricate patterns of hill tribe-inspired designs-bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings-are hammered out by Thai silversmiths.
Aside from the work of the Chang Mai city artisans, a buyer of silver in northern Thailand can still purchase the less refined silverwork of the hill tribes.
Surprisingly enough, most hill tribes even today prefer silver to paper for money; the women usually wear their wealth in heavy chunky necklaces and earrings. Hill tribe jewelry purchased in northern Thailand is usually sold by the actual gram weight multiplied by the gram price of the day.
On the web site, www.jewelrycrossings.com, several beautiful designs of hill tribe bangles and bracelets are available in sterling silver. Intricate designs of woven or braided sterling as well as delicate sterling silver mesh work capture the spirit and essence of this ancient craft. You can also find authentic Thai baht chain necklaces made in polished sterling silver. The baht chains are available in four popular lengths: 16", 18", 24" and 30". The classic baht chain necklace is comprised of small rectangular links weighing a particular "baht" weight.
- Susi, Silver Jewelry Crossings
For twenty-two years I have been involved in the gemstone and jewelry trade-first as owner of an incorporated company in Singapore, then Thailand, and for the last ten years in Northern California. Throughout my career my reward has come from the knowledge that I have gone the extra steps to ensure my customers' absolute satisfaction.

Earrings Through Time

Sher Matsen

Earrings - I think of them as the finishing touch to your look. They complete your fashion statement. There are earrings for all occasions - the board room, work, casual outings, your wedding, a night on the town, or a day at the beach. They can bring out your softer feminine side, the sexy goddess, or present simple charm, sophistication and elegance
From Elizabeth Taylor to Meg Ryan to Dave Navarro to Usher - today earrings are a fashion statement for both men and women. The first pair of earrings has been dated back to 2500 BC. Only the wealth and those of royal lines could afford expensive jewelry back then.
There are all types of earrings - chandelier earrings, dangle earrings, hoop earrings, stud earrings, button earrings, and droplet earrings to name just a few. Earrings come in all types of materials and metals. Gold, silver, gemstones, plastics, bakelite, copper, diamonds, paste, pearls, faux stones, or glass. The list goes on and on. What ever your desires there is a pair of earrings out there waiting for you.
The oldest earrings ever unearthed by archaeologists were discovered in Iraq in the royal graves and date to about 2,500 BC. Back to 3000 BC there were two types of earrings: the hoop, and the more elaborate pendant. From 1559 B.C. to 1085 B in Egypt earplugs became very fashionable. These type of piercings and earrings are seen even on King Tutankhamen.
In the Dark Ages poverty prevailed and metal jewelry sharply declined although designs were preserved for later use. During the Roman Empire wealthy women used earrings to show off their rich status. By the 2nd century AD gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, and aquamarines were used regularly.
During the Byzantine period which ran from330-1200 AD earrings took a back burner to more elaborate body ornamentation. In the Middle Ages earrings become almost non-existent because of the elaborate hair styles, and headdresses which were ever so popular.
During the 16th century in Italy high collars disappeared and hair was being worn up and away from the face, so earrings began to make a comeback. In other parts of the world such as England and France it would be another 100 years or so before the high collars disappeared. As time progressed the design of earrings became much more complex. Around 1660 the girandole earring made its appearance remaining very popular for the next couple of centuries. The girandole earrings were extremely large and heavy because of the metal content [gold or silver] and the amount of gems. Made of 3 pear shaped drops on a hook. The weight was known to cause elongated ear lobes.
In the latter part of the 18th century the pendeloque earrings became popular. They were longer than the girandole earrings but much lighter. They were the balance for the high hairdos and big wigs that were being worn.
During the early 1800, jewelers began to mount gemstones, on an open back claw setting. This allowed the light to pass through the gems enhancing their color and brilliance. By the 1850s, earrings had once again disappeared from the fashion scene. This was once again a result of changing hairstyles. The new styles that involved wearing the hair gathered in a knot at the back resulted in the ears being totally hidden. As well bonnets had arrived on the scene which also made wearing earrings rather difficult.
During the early 20th century screw backs were invented which meant women no longer had to pierce their ears. These became very popular. Some circles even began to believe piercing ones ears was rather barbaric.
After WWI shorter hairdos became very popular. Earrings were perfect for filling the space from short hair to shoulder and once again became a popular fashion statement.
During the 1920s art deco styles took hold, recognized by their straight or angled designs. Very long chandelier earrings were also quite popular during this time.
During the 1930s the clip on was invented. Because clip ons held the earring more snuggly than screw backs they became the number one choice for many years to come. Pierced ears faded into the background.
During the 1950s earrings were light and aerodynamic. By the 1960s earrings had become fun and innovative. Texture and color was very important. Prior to the 1960s earrings were dedicated to either evening wear or day wear with the evening wear earrings being more elegant. During the 1960s this all changed when the distinction between what was acceptable for evening or day faded away.
By the 1970s we had entered an "everything goes" style to earrings and pierced ears had made a comeback. Women were buying earrings in large quantities for every occasion. .
Today it's difficult to find someone who doesn't have pierced ears. Today men are as interested in earrings as women. Men often prefer studs or small hoops, they may wear one earring, two or more depending on the individual's tastes. Children now get their ears pierced often at a very young age, even sometimes as babies. Women may have anywhere from one set of holes to piercings right up the ear. The fashion of earrings has come a long way over the years and its here to stay! Whatever your style, there is certain to be a pair of earrings out there for you. Be sure to make your fashion statement!


Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing estate jewely & costume jewelry for all occasions, as well as a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Frugal Indoor Fun
Nancy Twigg

Now that the weather is so cold, the kids can't go out and play for long periods like they can in the summer. This means more hours to fill with fun indoor activities. Although the temptation may be to entertain the family by spending money (going to the mall, renting movies, visiting
a fast food restaurant or arcade), there are ways to keep the kids busy without draining your pocketbook. Here is a list of indoor activity ideas that are all either completely free or cost very little.

* Spend an afternoon writing letters or making homemade cards to send to out-of-state relatives. Let the kids make drawings, finger paint portraits, or collages to send to Grandma and Grandpa to adorn their refrigerator.
* Help the kids make up skits or act out stories to perform for Dad when he gets home from work. Along those same
lines, help the children put together a family talent show in which they sing, dance or do magic tricks. For added fun, use a camcorder to record the performances to watch later. The children will love seeing themselves on TV.
* Pull out the teapot and teacups and hold an afternoon tea party. Along with your tea, serve finger sandwiches and cookies. If your children are too young for tea, serve heated lemonade or hot chocolate.
* On a cold afternoon, spread a blanket on the den floor and have an indoor picnic. Eat the same kinds of picnic foods you would in the summer.
* Go camping indoors. Pitch a tent in the living room and let the kids pretend that they are on a camping trip. Pull out the sleeping bags and they can take naps in the tent or
even sleep the whole night there. Let them invite friends over for an indoor camping sleepover.
* Get the whole family together to work a giant jigsaw puzzle together. Be sure to have plenty of popcorn on hand for snacking.
* Provide the kids with fruits, vegetables and snack foods cut in a variety of shapes and sizes. Ask the kids to use the different shapes to create their own edible artwork. The only rule is that they have to eat whatever they put on their plates. Be sure to take pictures of their creations before they eat them.
* Almost all kids enjoy playing dress-up. Gather up all the outdated clothes, gaudy jewelry, weird hats and bright makeup you can find and let the kids go for it! Be sure to take pictures.
* Pull out those board games or card games. When's the last time the family enjoyed a friendly game of Scrabble or
Monopoly? Turn off the TV and enjoy some family together time as you enjoy some friendly competition.
* Speaking of cards, why not use those playing cards to build card houses? Compete to see who can build the tallest card condominium.
* Rather than renting movies from the video store, borrow videos from friends. In return, offer to lend them any videos you own. Be sure to return them promptly when you're done.

Nancy Twigg is the editor of Counting the Cost, a free
email newsletter about simple and frugal living
(www.countingthecost.com/index1.htm). For more creative
money-saving ideas, visit Nancy's newest website,
www.CreativeFrugality.com

How to care for pearls

Yan Berry

Pearls are delicate and soft gems compared with other gemstones. They need extra gentle care. Here is a guide to pearl care.

� Clean - wipe pearls regularly and gently with a soft cloth moistened with water. Pearls can absorb perfume, skin oils and dirt easily. Do not clean pearls with detergents and don't soak pearls in water.

� Protect - avoid temperature extremes and chemicals such as vinegar, alcohol and hair spray. They can damage pearl surfaces.

� Wear - put on pearls after you have applied makeup and hair spray.

� Store - pearls can be scratched easily. They should be stored in a soft place such as a velvet box or a satin pouch. Avoid putting pearls next to diamond or gemstones jewelry.

� Restring - for a frequently worn pearl necklace, it is recommended to restring the necklace once every one or two years since silk thread may get weakened over time.



Mrs. Berry is a pearl expert. She is also the founder of Premium Pearl, a leading online provider of high quality pearl jewelry.

Words Alone Can't Explain This Stock Market
Charles Payne

Last week, I read that the folks at Oxford English Dictionary had
a slate of American English words for consideration in future
editions. Apparently, because of its international influence via
the entertainment industry, America is the prime source of new
entries into the language (I guess it's good to see the country
still has some influence, because there are very few areas that
our global neighbors still look up to us). The word erm that I
found to be the most interesting for consideration is bling-bling.

The word refers to large jewelry, such as platinum chains and
diamond rings that rappers and athletes sport. However, the word
could also perfectly describe the nature of the stock market in
the late 1990s. Moreover, it is the perfect way to describe the
pay packages of CEOs, and lest not forget that house that the
former CFO of WorldCom is building in Boca Raton. Although it
is obvious that the editors at OED are becoming hipper, they're
still a little slow on the latest in urban vernacular. In this
case, it is probably a blessing. According to the Financial
Times, a writer from Houston recently stated, "The Bling-bling era
is over". It better be, as far as individual investors are
concerned. In fact, the bling-bling era has temporarily been
replaced by the but-but era. Or in some cases the butt-butt era.
The latter refers to how many investors feel after being taken
advantage of by the entire system, or to the expression on the
faces of those that continue to take the 5th during congressional
hearings.

In the meantime, the Bush administration spends a lot of time
saying "but-but". The drubbing of stocks was the clearest
message the people have sent since the Boston Tea party.
Moreover, it wasn't just Americans that were voicing their
dissatisfaction with the President's address concerning the
confidence crisis. When those safe haven stocks began to tumble
during the week, one had to know that it represented a lot of
foreign investment. As Ross Perot would have said, that was a
big sucking sound. (By the way, didn't he get in trouble this
week?) Yes, the foreigners are taking their money out of the
market just as fast as US investors, who withdrew about $20
billion from funds last week. It is interesting that much
hasn't been made of the simple fact that the market can't
go higher if there is more money going out as there is coming
in. Anyway, I think Bush will come back with a more definitive
plan that goes beyond punishment and maybe focuses on prevention.
I know that the GOP thinks that those dynamics are one and the
same, but in certain situations they're not.

The spectrum is such that those that have nothing to lose, and
see no other way, aren't going to be swayed by prison terms or
other forms of punishment. Sharing this space are those that are
either so inherently criminal, that it is part of their being to
break the law and those that are so blinded by greed that any
risk is worth the reward. In their zeal to achieve bling-bling
status, there is nothing that can stop them. They break every rule
in the game. So, it stands to reason that these same people would
first manipulate the rules, bending, twisting and corrupting them.

There, ladies and gentlemen, is where the President has to focus
his next address on the topic. After all, when it comes to those
in this country that see no other way, the rules are extremely
precise. If a 19 year-old kid from the ghetto can get 10-years
in prison for selling $20.00 worth of crack then that person
knows the risk when he/she hits the street corner. (A discussion
on the fairness of this type of sentencing could go on forever.
I do find it shocking that the type of fraud that results in
people losing their entire life savings only has a maximum term
of five years. The but-but crowd has never seen anything unfair
about such inequitable punishment, but may begin to backfire on
them.)

The rules of the game have to change to the point where anyone
investing in the stock market understands them. Let's face it,
many of the companies and individuals facing public scorn did
nothing illegal. On Wall Street it was akin to some sort of magic
show. The sleight of hand was rewarded and applauded. You bought
stocks because a company could manipulate the numbers. You loved
management that found ways not to pay taxes. The CEO that could
only pull a rabbit out of the hat was seen as behind the times.
Heck, we loved to see the company sawed in half, only to emerge
whole by the time the earnings were announced. The President has
to understand that the audience doesn't want that anymore. They
want reality television. No more tricks, no more hocus-pocus.
No more voodoo accounting. No more but-but.

In the end, the president has to cast a net so wide and ambitious
that he may even be snared by it. This is the law and order party,
so we expected longer prison terms. However that doesn't change
the fact that there is too much gray area in the rules, and until
that changes many public companies are going to go for bling-bling.
After all, that is the difference between a for-profit and a
not-for-profit-company. At the very least, individual investors
buy stocks in companies because they think the company will grab
the brass ring (if you're lucky, maybe said company
will reach the platinum ring).

A final thought on the Bush address. It is obvious that he has a
formidable obstacle in front of him trying to fix a problem that
is systemic in nature. Years of status quo have to be torn down,
almost overnight if the US equities market is to ever recover from
its current state. In the meantime, his get-tough approach could
put another nail in the coffin of small publicly traded companies.
I'm talking about the 3000 or so companies that trade like
orphans in the market, with no Jack Grubman to pump them. These
companies already pay a disproportionate amount of money on
compliance and filings. They simply can't be expected to adhere to
the new rule changes; it will put many out of business. I'm not sure
if the public is in the mood for special exemptions or if the Bush
administration really cares or understands the problems. Yet it
could be disastrous. These small companies are already afraid of
the SEC, because they don't have the large legal department that
can fight back. They need a break, or else another victim of the
current crisis in the American financial system will be the
American promise itself. The dream is that a company can get
financing and challenge the giants and in the process add to the
spirit that has kept America ahead of the rest if the world in
terms of innovation andtechnical prowess.

It is a tough and dire situation. Somewhere down the line the
goal of innovation and achievement gave way to greed. We all have
been seduced by bling-bling, but now it's back to basics,
hopefully the market can hang in there while the transition is
being made.

Other Thoughts and Observations
A few weeks ago, I said that the individual investor wouldn't
step in to buy stocks on weakness like they did post September 11th.
It is one thing to not let the bastards win, but another to bail out
homegrown bastards that abused the system and our trust. Since
then, the selling has become so pronounced that a hint of
patriotic fervor has returned. It moved long-time bear, Byron
Wein, to pick up the flag and say stocks are a buy. Other well
known Wall Street bears made upbeat comments about the long-term
potential of the stock market. However, none picked the bottom.

Outside of the days and weeks immediately following the terrorist
attacks, I can't think of a time when Washington should be less
partisan. Forget the blame game for a moment and stop acting like
the Hatfield and McCoy clans. There is nothing to brag about and
the problems are so universal and pervasive that everyone has
played a role.

I've asked that everyone remain hopeful but gather as much cash
as possible. It may be time to put that cash to use, really soon.
My best guess is that 8177 is going to be the launching pad. I do
find it interesting that the techs are probably going to
outperform the blue chips this summer. If there is a new paradigm
shift then that means a long-term recovery in the stock market
will have to come from a sector other than the techs.

Since 1991, Charles Paynes' Wall Street Strategies has
successfully provided timely and effective equity advice to institutional
money managers, retail brokers and individual investors
of all types, and has thousands of subscribers from hundreds of
brokerage firms. http://www.wstreet.com

Earrings Make A Fashion Statement!

Sher Matsen

Earrings are an important part of every woman's wardrobe, whether we are headed for a day at the beach, to the office, or to a wedding. Your earrings give a subtle hint about your personality.
You can change the entire look and feel of your wardrobe by adding the right earrings. You can bring out your softer feminine side, the sexy goddess, or present simple charm, sophistication, or elegance. For both men and women, today earrings are a definite fashion statement.
Earrings have been a part of human culture since 3000 BC. In past times, earrings actually established your position in society, because only royalty and very wealthy were able to afford expensive jewelry. Fine jewelry was worn by only the wealthy. The rest of the population also wore earrings to decorate their body, but they were replicas of high society jewelry.
There are many styles of earrings. There are quite literally thousands of choices. There is an earring style for every personality. Fine jewelry remains popular with precious stones such as sapphire and emeralds. Semi precious stones are also very popular. But even more popular are the costume jewelry earrings. These are affordable, look great, and are great for staying trendy and in style.
From dangles, to chandeliers, to droplets, to hoops, to studs. The choices and styles are never ending. If you don't have pierced ears, no worries! These days there is a terrific selection or clip on earrings available. You can be dazzling, subtle, glamorous, sexy. You can be highly refined, professional, high classed, or fun and funky, and trendy!
You can never have enough earrings. Your earrings can add the finishing touches your outfit. Change your earrings and you can change the entire appearance of your look. Think about that little black dress you own. Add a pair of sapphire studs and you'll be highly refined. Add a pair of large chandelier rhinestones and you'll be Hollywood glamour. Add a pair of wood dangles, and a pair of flip flops and you'll look fun and funky. Add a pair of red button earrings with a red bead necklace and you'll be "so sexy."
It's amazing what a pair of earrings can do to your look! So keep a good selection of earrings on hand to meet all your fashion needs. Earrings are the most important wardrobe accessory you can own. You'll get great value from your earrings. Choose earrings that meet your life style, your personality, and your tastes. There is no point in buying a pair of trendy earrings that you'll never wear because they don't feel like "you."
Earrings also make a great gift as they can be very personalized. Choose a style to meet their personality. From gemstones to beads, you can spend a little or you can spend a lot. The gift recipient will be thrilled that you were so thoughtful as to buy such a personal gift.
Use your earrings to make a lasting impression, from the board room to the beach. Be sure people remember who you are. It's important to always Make Your Fashion Statement!


© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.


Medical Alert Jewelry: A Life Saving Fashion Statement
J. Terrence McDermott

No one really wants to be labeled as "different." And certainly, no one wants to create that label and apply it to him or herself. But many medical conditions require some form of identification indicating that such a condition exists and must be considered in the case of an emergency. Thus, millions of people with hundreds of medical conditions must advertise that fact simply to protect themselves. For many, jewelry is the chosen medium.

Fact: Up to 15% of the population of the United States could experience a life-threatening reaction to foods, drugs, insect bites or latex.

Fact: Many diabetics suffering from hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) have been mistakenly identified as being drunk.

Fact: Over 400 Americans die annually from an allergic reaction to penicillin.

Given these and many more related statistics, the need for proper medical identification is critical. But in an image conscious society, clunky bracelets or dog tags may offend the fashion sensibilities of some while the overt labeling of medical conditions may be threatening to others. That is why manufacturers of medical jewelry are looking for a balance between the necessity of clear communications and a desire for attractive accessorizing.

It would be easy to hide identification for a medical condition in a wallet or handbag but in an emergency a visible and obvious message will assist medical personnel to make fast and accurate assessments. Jewelry, by its nature, is an adornment designed to flatter and draw attention to its wearer. A 10KT or 14KT gold or sterling silver charm, pendant or locket that also spotlights medical data can be quite attractive while helping to avert a tragedy.

Teens can be especially sensitive to their appearance and to the opinions of other teens. They can also be more apt to take risks because of these concerns. A young diabetic or epileptic may be willing to compromise their safety by avoiding the use of identification, even in the form of attractive jewelry, if they feel it makes them look "un-cool." There are some jewelry pieces however that can gain the proper attention, if necessary, without appearing "dorky."

Delicate ankle bracelets with a dangling charm or a small engraved plate are very acceptable jewelry accessories for teen girls. Lovely beaded bracelets are also fun, decorative and fashionable and will complement any style rather than compete. Boys can also accessorize discretely with a sports wristband band or handsome watchband. These pieces can be as simple or elegant as the wearer wants and many manufacturers produce medical jewelry with a keen eye on fashion and style trends.

No one should be embarrassed or ashamed because they have a particular condition. That doesn't mean that they should be forced to broadcast that condition to the world by wearing identification that is unattractive and obvious. Medical personnel are trained to look for medical I.D. and jewelry, no matter how discreet, and these pieces will be one of the first places they will look for medical info. Anyone with medical issues has a responsibility to themselves and to their family to provide the information that will protect them if they are unable to properly communicate. But they can still look sharp at the same time!

© Copyright 2003 Online Enterprises. All Rights Reserved.


About the author: J. Terrence McDermott is administrator and webmaster for Prevamedic.com (http://www.prevamedic.com) a site featuring recommendations and resources for those seeking information about medical identification jewelry and devices. He can be reached at termcder@gmail.com

The Informal Normal In A Black-Tie-Affair World

Stanley J. Leffew

Have you noticed the trend?

You ever notice how on programs like "The Bachelor" most of their dating episodes are via limousine escort?

They travel to lavish destinations amid scenic splendor. The sunsets are so beautiful you can almost hear nature singing its own rendition of, "Love Is A Many Splendid Thing".

You rarely ever even see a rainy day.

In "Sleepless In Seattle", the audience was left "Speechless in New York" atop the Empire State Building. The climactic romantic interlude that followed is one that will be etched in the memory of movie-lovers for a long time to come.

In "Sabrina", the audience feels the eloquent charm and ambience of Paris.

"You've Got Mail" spammed us with the scenic elegance and grandeur of all that's good in and around "The Big Apple".

If you really want to be depressed, sit and watch some of the work out programs that abound. Watch as brisk morning breezes enrapture the velvety clouds tracing the horizon from the backdrops of scenic vistas and ocean views. Who couldn't be motivated to work out?

We easily become captivated by "Lifestyles of The Rich and Famous", "Cribs", and the latest craze of "Extreme Make Over-Home Edition", dreaming if only...

Watch a few of the music videos that abound at VH1, MTV and BET. You will see more money, lavish diamonds, fancy fashions, flashy gold jewelry, expensive limousines and other fine automobiles watching these music video programs for one hour than most people will see in the average lifetime.

All commercials seem to have the same goal in mind to make us feel that their product is the missing link to our imminent happiness.

We live in a Black Tie Affair World!

No wonder so many people struggle with comparisons.

When one becomes enamored by the glitz and the glamour so prevalent in our culture, it is easy to feel relationally shortchanged and cheated in life.

This Black-Tie-Affair mindset causes many couples to strive to keep up with the Joneses to the point of being maxed out to the hilt in financial demise from debt. Money issues are cited as one of the biggest reasons for the breakdown in the family leading to divorce.

Are you struggling with the fantasy?

Are you confused with all the hoopla?

Is this life reality?

Is this relational reality?

Is it reality?

If it is, I must be missing something. I must have made a wrong turn in the road somewhere. Most of the families I know must have made the wrong turn with me.

Although my wife and I love each other very much, much of our relationship life is spent, well, INFORMALLY NORMAL.

A day in the life for most couples is spent:

* Punching the old inevitable time clock.

* Doing the dishes and the laundry.

* Cooking.

* Paying bills.

* Fighting colds, headaches and fatigue.

* Changing diapers.

* Bathing the kids and getting them ready for bed.

* Getting up the next day and doing it all over again.


Most of the world struggles with getting up, getting old, getting fat, getting sick or simply getting by.

So, do yourself a favor. Stop buying in to all the hoopla and falsehood.

If you get caught in this web of deceit, you just may miss out on what really matters - faith, family, character and integrity.

The last time I checked, love wasn't defined by the word MONEY.

For words that better define love you may want to consider: commitment, sacrifice, support, unselfishness, home building, encouragement, forgiveness, planning and working together.

Maybe a bit informal and normal...maybe not as flashy as dollar signs...but ironically, a lot richer!

(C)Copyright 2004 advice-for-lifetime-relationships.com by Stanley J. Leffew ALL RIGHTS RESERVED!


Stanley J. Leffew is the author of, "How To Be Wanted For a Lifetime of Nights and Not Just a Night of a Lifetime". His Website is based on this same theme. His Site's unique Newsletter takes its readers into "The Coffee Shop of Make-Believe" for life and relationship empowerment. The Coffee Shop is OPEN at, http://advice-for-lifetime-relationships.com.

Vacationing Tips to Protect You and Your Family
Jordan Walt

A.I.C. Insurance Agency Offers Vacation Tips to Protect You and Your Family
Milwaukie, OR Feb. 28, 2005 - Vacations should be a time spent having fun and relaxing. By taking a few extra precautions while traveling, you can prevent yourself, or your friends and family, from being a victim of crime. A.I.C. Insurance Agency and Travelers, a leading provider of auto and homeowners insurance, offer these safety tips to help you, your friends and family have a fun and safe vacation:
� Do not carry large amounts of cash. Use traveler's checks that can usually be replaced within 24 hours.
� Use ATMs only during daylight hours. If you must use one after dark, try and find a well-lit, busy area such as a grocery store.
� Leave copies of trip information with a friend or family member at home. This includes credit card numbers, passport numbers, plane tickets and itinerary
information, and phone numbers for your credit card companies.
� Keep credit cards, cash, passport, and plane tickets separate.
� Wear a "money purse" underneath your clothes that contains passport, phone numbers for credit card companies, and a small amount of cash, should your wallet get stolen.
� Carry a "dummy" wallet in your back pocket containing $20 which, if you were to be mugged, would satisfy the robber without draining all of your funds.
� Have your mail delivery stopped while on vacation. If you have a neighbor
retrieving mail and newspapers while you are away, ensure that they will be there
every day. Nothing says an empty house like a stack of mail or newspapers at the front door.
� Do not assume your personal documents are safe in your hotel room. Lock them in a safe while the room is unoccupied.
� Have separate ATM, debit and credit cards and make sure that you need a PIN for in-store use of a debit card, not only for the ATM.
� For women, do not hang purses on the back of bathroom stall doors. It is very easy for someone to reach over the door and grab it.
� Leave your regular checkbook at home. If your checks are stolen, it's difficult to cancel them and track their use as you would a credit card. Plus, if someone reorders checks in your name, you won't realize it until you receive your bank statement.
� Only carry credit cards that you will need on vacation. Leave cards for particular department stores or things like gas cards at home.
� Remember that your credit card number is on your plane tickets, so treat them as you would a credit card.
� Cover ATM key pads when entering your PIN. People could be watching over your shoulder, or even from a distance, and then later attempt to steal your wallet and use this information.
� Use common sense when traveling. Do not draw attention to yourself as a tourist. Avoid reading maps in a busy, high-traffic area, carry your camera in a tote bag rather than the carrying case, and do not flaunt large amounts of cash when removing money from your wallet or pocket.
Your homeowners, condo or renters insurance policy may cover loss or damage of your personal items while traveling, up to specified limits. Take time before you go on vacation to compile a personal property inventory, which helps determine replacement cost of lost items. Document each item's year of purchase and original price. Items that may exceed policy limits, such as jewelry, cameras and golf equipment, need additional protection such as Travelers valuable items insurance. To ensure you have the coverage you need, contact your independent insurance agent.

Established in 1995, AIC Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agency offering a full range of insurance products including auto, home, life, commercial, and more.
For information and quotes on insurance coverage, please visit AIC Insurance Agency at 14000 SE Johnson Rd. Ste.210 in Milwaukie, OR, or call 503-653-8287.
Travelers, the second largest writer of auto and homeowners insurance through independent agents, is a member of St. Paul Travelers, a leading provider of property casualty insurance and asset management services. For more information, visit www.travelers.com


Graduate of Oregon State University, and independent insurance agent in Oregon.

Debt Reduction Solutions

Mark Lambie

Finding solutions to reducing your debt takes some thinking and research on your part. You have some good choices available to you and we shall list these key debt reduction solutions for you right here:

1. Home Equity Loan or Home Equity Line of Credit. Your 21% charge card can be reduced to nearly 6% over night. How? By taking out a line of credit or equity loan against your home. Equity loans and lines of credit are available at low rates and banks are very willing to extend this service to you as your home is your collateral. Pay off all of your credit card debt with the loan and you will achieve debt reduction solutions immediately.

2. Replace high interest credit cards with low interest cards. Yes, in this day of low interest rates, many credit cards carry high interest rates. Ask your credit card issuer to reduce their rate closer to market rates. If they refuse to budge, consider applying for a low interest rate card from another provider. Transfer your balance to the provider offering the best rate.

3. Debt reduction solutions can be realized through the selling of other assets including: an extra car, antiques, jewelry, extra property, renting out property, or liquidating some other assets. Check around your home and see if there is something that you owe that can be sold on eBay or locally at a yard sale. Take the proceeds from your sale and pay down your debt, starting with the biggest debt first.

4. If you do not owe a home, or the home you do own has negligible equity built up then you cannot get equity from your home. Still, depending on your income, you may be eligible for mortgage refinancing below market rates. Check with your bank or local housing authority to see if you qualify for a low or moderate income loan. The savings you realize through reduced mortgage payments may help you pay down your debt.

Finding debt reduction solutions that work for you is an important first step in eliminating debt. Make a plan and stick with it and you will soon be living a debt free/care free life.


Mark Lambie is the founder of Fast Debt Settlement We provide a free service that matches you with debt consolidation specialists

GIFTS THAT LAST A LIFETIME
Pauline Wallin, Ph.D.

Gifts That Last a Lifetime
In this season of holiday gift buying, advertisers bombard us with messages, some of them contradictory. One ad tells us that the best way for men to show love is to spend three months' salary on a piece of diamond jewelry. On the other hand, MasterCard commercials remind us that there are some things ("Priceless" moments) that money can't buy.

"Oh, that's a sweet sentiment," you might say, "but can it really substitute for the latest videogame or hot toy?" Very few children raised in this materialistic culture would say, "Gee mom, thanks for making my favorite meal. What a great Christmas gift!"

Yet 20 years from now, these same children probably won't remember the items that they got for the current Christmas. They will, however, recall the special games that their family played together, the time that their older brother took them to a movie, or the way their parents tucked them in at night.

These are the little moments, which over time, have a huge impact. Unfortunately people tend to take them for granted. With so much emphasis on holiday shopping, and on buying the perfect gift, we can lose sight of the importance of the less flashy, but "priceless" gifts: gifts such as thoughtfulness and gratitude that we can give to one another all year round. A diamond may be forever, but its value is nothing compared to a lifetime of moments that money can't buy.

I'm not suggesting that you forego the presents this holiday season, but don't worry so much about how "perfect" they are. Go ahead and buy some gifts, but more importantly, resolve to focus your energy on helping others feel valued and appreciated. They will remember your acts of thoughtfulness and compassion long after the material gifts are gone.

Here are some examples of small gestures that can help people around you feel valued:

1. Show your appreciation with a thank-you, a smile or a hug (or all three.) It takes just a moment, but it can make a person's day.

2. Practice a random act of kindness every day. Make this your "gift" to a stranger. For example, let someone in front of you in line. Hold a door open for someone. Smile and greet people you pass at work. These acts take only a few seconds or less, yet they create a mood that can last for hours.

3. Call up someone you haven't spoken to in a while, just to catch up on how they are. You've probably been meaning to do this for a long time. Now is a good time.

4. If you have children, give one child at a time your full attention for an afternoon: Go for a walk; go to the library; or just sit and read or draw together. The activity itself isn't as important as sharing time and interacting together. Going to a movie or watching a video doesn't count.

5. Write a note of appreciation to someone who is important to you. Don't be surprised if that person keeps the note for years to come.

6. Think of the way you'd like to be remembered by those around you, and give of yourself accordingly throughout the year. The added benefit for you is that you'll be in a more positive frame of mind overall.



Pauline Wallin, Ph.D. is a psychologist in Camp Hill, PA, and author of "Taming Your Inner Brat: A Guide for Transforming Self-defeating Behavior" (Beyond Words Publishing, 2001)

Visit http://www.innerbrat.com for more information, and subscribe to her free, monthly Inner Brat Newsletter.

Buying Jewelry For Your Business Part 4 Buying Platinum Jewelry

Breaking away from white wall paint
by: Lisa French

Paint is one of the most affordable and easiest ways to change a room. But choosing the right paint colors for your home can seem like an overwhelming task.

Paint, accessories, fabric, furniture, and flooring should all blend, so take a good look at the room you will be working on, preferably before you choose a paint color, and decide what will stay in the room, and what you may want to move out of the room.

The first thing you should do when choosing interior colors for your home, is look around at colors that make you feel good, happy, and relaxed.
These colors are probably already in your home. A few examples are the colors you love to look at in your flower garden, the colors in your jewelry, or pottery, or they can be found in the colors of the clothes in your closet.

The second thing you should do is go to your local paint store and pick up a color wheel, and or sample cards, pick the sample cards that really catch your eye, and don't be afraid to get as many as you want. Take these cards home and look at them at different times of the day and night, to see how the color will look when the sun shines in on them, or at night when you have lamps turned on, or candles burning. Study this for several days. Be patient when deciding which color feels best to you.

• Complimentary colors - are the colors that are directly across from each other on the color wheel.
• 
  
  
• Harmonious colors - are the colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. Like blue and purple.
• 
  
  
• Tints - are colors with white added.
• 
  
  
• Shades - are colors with black added.
• 
  
  
• Saturation - is the amount of color used. The more color, the more vibrant.
• 
  
  
• Color tone - is the degree to which it changes.
• 
  
  
• Pastels - use only a hint of color.
• 
  
  Lisa French invites you to visit her website http://decorating-country-home.com for more home decorating ideas.
  Breaking away from white wall paint
  Lisa French
  
  

  Breaking away from white wall paint
  by: Lisa French
  
  Paint is one of the most affordable and easiest ways to change a room. But choosing the right paint colors for your home can seem like an overwhelming task.
  
  Paint, accessories, fabric, furniture, and flooring should all blend, so take a good look at the room you will be working on, preferably before you choose a paint color, and decide what will stay in the room, and what you may want to move out of the room.
  
  The first thing you should do when choosing interior colors for your home, is look around at colors that make you feel good, happy, and relaxed.
  These colors are probably already in your home. A few examples are the colors you love to look at in your flower garden, the colors in your jewelry, or pottery, or they can be found in the colors of the clothes in your closet.
  
  The second thing you should do is go to your local paint store and pick up a color wheel, and or sample cards, pick the sample cards that really catch your eye, and don't be afraid to get as many as you want. Take these cards home and look at them at different times of the day and night, to see how the color will look when the sun shines in on them, or at night when you have lamps turned on, or candles burning. Study this for several days. Be patient when deciding which color feels best to you.
  
  

  • Complimentary colors - are the colors that are directly across from each other on the color wheel.
  • 
    
    
  • Harmonious colors - are the colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. Like blue and purple.
  • 
    
    
  • Tints - are colors with white added.
  • 
    
    
  • Shades - are colors with black added.
  • 
    
    
  • Saturation - is the amount of color used. The more color, the more vibrant.
  • 
    
    
  • Color tone - is the degree to which it changes.
  • 
    
    
  • Pastels - use only a hint of color.
  • 
    
    Lisa French invites you to visit her website http://decorating-country-home.com for more home decorating ideas.
    
    Lisa French
    http://www.decorating-country-home.com

Selling on Ebay and Wholesale .... Would You Like to Resell Mexican Products for Great Profits ?

Isn't that the million dollar question? How can I tell if this is the one? Is this one my soulmate? How will I know when I find the right one? There is no magic answer, but I can tell you what seems to work. I asked a psychic one time if a certain person was my soulmate. His answer, "If you have to ask, then he's not the one." He went on to explain that with soulmates no matter how good or bad a day you have together, you wake up in the morning knowing without a doubt that this is the one and you go to bed at night knowing without a doubt that this is the one. Nothing that happens in between those two points can change your mind.

Whenever I find happily married couples in their fifties or older who have been married for most of their lives to each other, I always ask them, "How did you know this was the one?" Every single one of the men answered the same way. They all said that the first time they laid eyes on the girl, they knew in that moment that they would eventually propose to her. For every one of those men it was love at first sight. "But why that one? What made you fall in love with that particular woman at first glance?" Each one answers differently, but they all have a vague unanswerable quality that the guy just knew she was it before they even knew what the girl's name was.

The women all said they thought the guy was nice enough, just okay, or a little goofy but not too bad. None of the women fell head over heels right away. The women were all living a happy upbeat life and were not really searching for a husband when the guy came along. That may be a big part of the mystique that these women created. They were not needy nor desperate. Truth be told all of the lifetime happily married women I know are very strong and independent, but loyal and loving women. None of them are nags nor codependent types.

The thing that all of these couples have in common is that the each one was relatively happy and mentally healthy going about their lives, their goals, and their dreams. All of them planned to some day fall in love and get married to one person for life but none were attached to a soulmate type concept or ideal. None of these people were sexually loose but they weren't complete prudes either. They chose not to sleep around because they had a strong sense of self-respect. Some had religious beliefs that added to the dynamic and others did not. All were of a mindset that you simply didn't whore around for the heck of it.

In all cases, the man chased the woman. You have to remember the deep underlying needs of the male and females of our species. The man must hunt and conquer. If she's too easy to catch, then there must be something wrong with her. Right or wrong, men have a very deep down need to 'win' the girl. They were all upbeat, bright, kind, loving women with full happy lives of their own. None of the women were pushovers and none of the women were easy to 'win.' It was always love at first sight on the man's end, but not on the woman's. The women were not cold and unapproachable, so the men were able to charm them and 'win' them over. All of these relationships had at least a two-year courtship and engagement period. Their eyes were wide open when they said, "I do."

Were they soulmates or just lucky? It depends on how you define soulmates. If you define a soulmate as your cosmic twin, then I'd say no these people were very different types that hooked up and stayed happy together for life. In one example, the woman was a devout Catholic and the husband was just sort of generic Christian. She didn't try to convert him and he respected her need to go to mass every Sunday. No, he didn't become any more or less of a Christian then he already was. They each respected the other's right to be who they were. Nobody tried to change anybody. Who they fell in love with is who they stayed in love with. In another example, he was from an extremely conservative religion and she was very lightly Christian. She completely changed her entire way of life to be with him. She gave up makeup, stylish haircuts, jewelry and sexy clothes to become almost Amish in her life with him. She never regretted it because he was everything to her and she came to agree with his family's religious beliefs. In none of the relationships were the couples a twin copy of the other. Yes, every one of those couples struggled in the first years of their marriage to find a balance between 'me' and 'we'. Every one of those couples had to learn to listen, to compromise, to be fully present in the moment, and to show their love in a way that resonated with the other. However, they all managed to live that elusive 'happily ever after' that the rest of us only dream of.

If you define a soulmate as the right one for you, the one you were meant to spend the rest of your life with, the one specially designed to create 'happily ever after' with you, then yes, they were soulmates. No matter how bad things got, these couples never ever contemplated divorce. They didn't stay together because of a vow before God. They stayed together because they couldn't fathom the concept of not loving the other one. Every morning they woke up knowing they were both in love. Every night they went to sleep knowing they were both in love.

Copyright 2004, Skye Thomas, Tomorrow's Edge
Is This The One?
Skye Thomas

Isn't that the million dollar question? How can I tell if this is the one? Is this one my soulmate? How will I know when I find the right one? There is no magic answer, but I can tell you what seems to work. I asked a psychic one time if a certain person was my soulmate. His answer, "If you have to ask, then he's not the one." He went on to explain that with soulmates no matter how good or bad a day you have together, you wake up in the morning knowing without a doubt that this is the one and you go to bed at night knowing without a doubt that this is the one. Nothing that happens in between those two points can change your mind.

Whenever I find happily married couples in their fifties or older who have been married for most of their lives to each other, I always ask them, "How did you know this was the one?" Every single one of the men answered the same way. They all said that the first time they laid eyes on the girl, they knew in that moment that they would eventually propose to her. For every one of those men it was love at first sight. "But why that one? What made you fall in love with that particular woman at first glance?" Each one answers differently, but they all have a vague unanswerable quality that the guy just knew she was it before they even knew what the girl's name was.

The women all said they thought the guy was nice enough, just okay, or a little goofy but not too bad. None of the women fell head over heels right away. The women were all living a happy upbeat life and were not really searching for a husband when the guy came along. That may be a big part of the mystique that these women created. They were not needy nor desperate. Truth be told all of the lifetime happily married women I know are very strong and independent, but loyal and loving women. None of them are nags nor codependent types.

The thing that all of these couples have in common is that the each one was relatively happy and mentally healthy going about their lives, their goals, and their dreams. All of them planned to some day fall in love and get married to one person for life but none were attached to a soulmate type concept or ideal. None of these people were sexually loose but they weren't complete prudes either. They chose not to sleep around because they had a strong sense of self-respect. Some had religious beliefs that added to the dynamic and others did not. All were of a mindset that you simply didn't whore around for the heck of it.

In all cases, the man chased the woman. You have to remember the deep underlying needs of the male and females of our species. The man must hunt and conquer. If she's too easy to catch, then there must be something wrong with her. Right or wrong, men have a very deep down need to 'win' the girl. They were all upbeat, bright, kind, loving women with full happy lives of their own. None of the women were pushovers and none of the women were easy to 'win.' It was always love at first sight on the man's end, but not on the woman's. The women were not cold and unapproachable, so the men were able to charm them and 'win' them over. All of these relationships had at least a two-year courtship and engagement period. Their eyes were wide open when they said, "I do."

Were they soulmates or just lucky? It depends on how you define soulmates. If you define a soulmate as your cosmic twin, then I'd say no these people were very different types that hooked up and stayed happy together for life. In one example, the woman was a devout Catholic and the husband was just sort of generic Christian. She didn't try to convert him and he respected her need to go to mass every Sunday. No, he didn't become any more or less of a Christian then he already was. They each respected the other's right to be who they were. Nobody tried to change anybody. Who they fell in love with is who they stayed in love with. In another example, he was from an extremely conservative religion and she was very lightly Christian. She completely changed her entire way of life to be with him. She gave up makeup, stylish haircuts, jewelry and sexy clothes to become almost Amish in her life with him. She never regretted it because he was everything to her and she came to agree with his family's religious beliefs. In none of the relationships were the couples a twin copy of the other. Yes, every one of those couples struggled in the first years of their marriage to find a balance between 'me' and 'we'. Every one of those couples had to learn to listen, to compromise, to be fully present in the moment, and to show their love in a way that resonated with the other. However, they all managed to live that elusive 'happily ever after' that the rest of us only dream of.

If you define a soulmate as the right one for you, the one you were meant to spend the rest of your life with, the one specially designed to create 'happily ever after' with you, then yes, they were soulmates. No matter how bad things got, these couples never ever contemplated divorce. They didn't stay together because of a vow before God. They stayed together because they couldn't fathom the concept of not loving the other one. Every morning they woke up knowing they were both in love. Every night they went to sleep knowing they were both in love.

Copyright 2004, Skye Thomas, Tomorrow's Edge

Skye Thomas is the CEO of Tomorrow's Edge, an Internet leader in inspiring leaps of faith. Her books and articles have inspired people of all ages and faiths to recommit themselves to the pursuit of happiness. After years of high heels and business clothes, she is currently enjoying working from home in her pajamas. To read more of her articles, sign up to receive her free weekly newsletter, and get free previews of her books go to www.TomorrowsEdge.net.

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