So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

What's Growing in Idaho?

By Qandishah Brown

You have to agree that potatoes are something that everybody loves. In fact, these root crops are so well loved it has become a staple in our diets and we have them in so many different ways. Some people fry them, bake them, mash them and even hash them. You can have them with a dip or plain salted; the options are really quite endless. Taters are not only good; they are also wonderful source of carbohydrates. The best place that you can get your potatoes from is Idaho.

What started out as a simple planting by some missionaries in Idaho has turned into an entire industry for this state. They proudly advertise and market having the best potatoes around. In fact, they even have a commission to make sure that this industry is well taken care of. Among the many things that the Idaho potato commission dose is to organize fairs and festivals that promote their potatoes.

Aside from the spudfest there are other fairs that you can visit too; particularly craft fairs and shows. These are always a lot of fun to visit and it also provides a great opportunity to make some money. You can use your imagination and creativity all you want in events such as these. Craft fairs and shows in Idaho are not only for those who stay there. It is open to anyone and everyone interested in these things, which means you too can join in on the fun.

The best way to get into an Idaho craft show or fair is by gathering all the details that you need ahead of time. This will include talking to local officials and organizers so that you can register and prepare for everything early enough. It may not always be easy to get the information you need so start asking early.

If you are having second thoughts about having to track down people to get the details, you have another option. An online events calendar can be your best friend at this time. It will provide you with all the events that are already lined up and you can just get the details from there.

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Decorative Wrought Iron Ideas for Wall Hooks and Wall Hangers

By Susan West

Decorating your own home is like a passion to most and decorating it using the help of wrought items is considered very fashionable and trendy. Today amazing decorative items are made and carved out of metal in marvelous designs. The wrought iron decorative accessories are both attractive and durable to apply in rooms.

It is an impressive mode to use decorative hooks and hanger as accessories to add contrast to your walls and rooms. Imagine a beautiful house surrounded with beautiful furniture but all in same blends gives no contrast and makes the house look dull. Here decorative wrought iron furniture and/or other accessories like decorative wrought iron wall hooks & wall hanger serves the purpose. The most amazing part is that the metal can be molded to any shape and size. Various decorative wrought iron wall hooks & decorative wrought iron wall hanger shapes and sizes are easily available within the online market.

There are various styles, shapes and sizes available for wrought iron wall hangers. Wrought iron is a unique metal in the fact that it is easily moldable. That is why such a variety of style abounds. It is its low carbon content that not only allows for such intricate mold ability, but also durability. Wrought iron wall hangers are not prone to corrode. They add elegance for years with minimal upkeep.

You can utilize wall space by choosing to use either one large hook or two smaller ones. Keep in mind while shopping for wrought iron wall hooks and wrought iron wall hangers that you want those that blend in well with your home dcor.

Various online exclusive decorative wrought iron wall hooks and wrought iron wall hangers add character to any wall. Decorative wrought iron wall hooks are angular in shape although small as they are sharply carved pieces of metal, which are useful in hanging and locking clothes, belts and so on. Wrought iron hooks are not only stunning in appearance but are practical as well for hanging clothes, curtain rods and even tapestries.

Most wall hooks are available in either a slim or wide size. But a quick search will avail many size choices. Before deciding on a thickness decide where you want to hang your wrought iron wall hooks. Are you interested in hanging items from the ceiling with your hooks? Do your wall hooks need to swivel? Decide what need the wall hooks will serve and you will be much happier with your purchase.

Wrought iron wall hangers are immensely popular. Because of this there is a great variety of color choice as well as size, shape, thickness and design. If you walls are light, look for darker shapes of wall hangers for a little contrast. Dark wrought iron wall hooks with matching drapery hardware against light walls makes an elegant and pleasing statement. We all want to present our uniqueness in our home design. Wrought iron accessories compliment any personal style with a touch of timeless class. Edited by Glinda Zuladra

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Is the Elixir of Long Life our Fountain of Youth?

By Lydia Peru

Thousands of years ago people around the world knew of the values of Kombucha tea. This incredible brew continues to reign as one of the most amazing nutritional supplements, and is all natural.

Two thousand years ago this interesting fungus was used in Korea by a medicine man named Kombu. This healer used this mushroom like fungus to make a tea, or cha, to treat the Emperor. Thus the name of Kombu cha, or Kombucha.

Kombucha is not really a mushroom or a fungus. It's really bacteria and yeast working together to form a culture that looks like a spongy pancake.

How does Kombucha tea serve us? Kombucha is often note for its detoxifying qualities. It assists the liver in clearing toxin buildup. Our acid and alkaline levels are also restored by the balancing qualities of Kombucha.

Digestion can be improved by drinking small quantities of Kombucha tea before or after a meal. Kombucha does not disturb the healthy flora in the intestines, but aids in digestion, providing a pro-biotic effect.

This pH restorative drink has been honored for its positive affect on arthritis and rheumatism and skin conditions such as acne. This elixir of long life has been studied for its benefits in the treatment of cancer and tumors.

It is easy to include Kombucha in your daily diet, and the benefits can be seen in healthy hair and radiant skin. Our animal companions can benefit from this elixir as well. Over time many things are replaced by more effective methods, but Kombucha continues to serve as the elixir of life, even centuries later.

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A Bikers Tale: Son Of Pappy

By LJ James

Many of you out there probably do not know that I L.J. James am the Son of Pappy (Freelance writer on the Biker Lifestyle) ! Hell I didn't know till 1986,Well I knew I just didn't know him! Pappy an my Mother got separated when I was young and I didn't see Pappy from around 76 till 86. When I met him he wasn't even known as Pappy yet! That came later.

I had lived with my Mother an step-Father on Long Island in NY till the Summer of 86. I had always been into Bikes and the life style. Many times after getting into some kind of trouble I would hear the saying "He is just like his Father". Little did I know at the time just how true it really was! After getting into some more teenage trouble (you know the deal Drinking,Staying out late, getting brought home by the cops 2 or 3 times). My Mother figured it was time for me to meet my Father. So in the Summer of 86 at the age of 15, I found myself flying up to Rochester NY to meet my Father!

When I first met Pappy He owned a large House and He rented out rooms in the house to College kids and other Bikers. Almost as soon as I got there Pappy started teaching me to Ride a Motorcycle and probably just as important if not more, what the words Respect, Honesty , Loyalty and Brotherhood mean in the Biker World. I still remember clearly one time at a John Fogarty Concert. Me, Pappy and a few other Bikers where in the parking lot looking at Motorcycles. I saw this really cool bike with this paint job that was just unbelievable, I went to touch it and Pappy grabbed my hand looked at me in the eyes and told me "Never touch another mans Bike without his permission" and till this day I never have.

The House Pappy owend was well known by many of the Bikers in the area and was the place many large party's where held, It was not uncommon to find a bunch of Bikers sleeping in the living room any given morning. These Bikers where family to me and when they said "He is just like his Father" it gave me a feeling of over whelming pride! I have always loved hearing the stories these true Brothers of the biker world would tell me. I feel the old Biker stories need to be saved and told over and over again.

New Motorcycle Riders are learning about Biker history from old 1960's Biker Gang movies that have no historic truth to them. Just like with any culture if you lose your true history you lose what you really are! I feel the only way to return the Biker world to its true origin is to keep the old stories alive ! Too many "Bikers" complain that the younger Motorcycle Riders of today have no idea what it means to be a Biker! Well I think maybe the problem is that some of the older Bikers never really knew what it meant to be a Biker, Because if they did they would know its their job to teach the next generation! A new Motorcycle Rider must know what the Spirit of Biker Brotherhood is before he can truly feel it and become a part of it. (Maybe that's part of why I became a writer?)

I said at the Beginning of this story Pappy was not yet known as Pappy and I would tell you how that came to be. Well if you remember the Summer of 86 you will remember the Karate Kid Movie was a Big Hit and was on HBO like 10 times a day,Well as far as I could remember I had never called anyone Dad or Father or anything like that. In the Karate Kid they called each other miyagi san and Daniel san! Well thinking I was clever I started calling my Father "Pappy san", He in turn started calling me Son of Pappy and soon after everyone started calling Him Pappy!

Now many of You maybe wondering why the Hell am I telling you all this. Well like I have said there are many Motorcycle riders these days that have no clue what Biker Brotherhood really is. I think it is important that they know this is not something you buy into, But something you grow into. Too many buy a Motorcycle and then do nothing but talk, They are only there for you if you have something to offer them. There are very few true Bikers left, Bikers are being replaced by Motorcycle enthusiasts and part of it is our own fault! I write this story in hopes it will help spread the word that only the true old School bikers can teach the younger generation the true meaning of Biker Brotherhood.

A true Biker who feels the Brotherhood Spirit always has some older Biker to thank for passing that Spirit onto him! I thank my Father Pappy, My Uncle Trey and all the other Bikers Who helped to raise me to be the Biker I am, I am very glad to have been raised by them and I am very Proud to have grown up to be one of them !

I am Your Bro, Son of Pappy L.J. James AmericanBikerX.com Radio show at BikerLowdown.com

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Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

By Alice Sy

Diamond connotes beauty, wealth, and power. In ancient times as well as in the modern day setting, this precious stone is considered one of the most expensive possessions a person could ever have. It has been dubbed "a womans best friend and has indeed upheld this label.

As time goes by, diamonds become symbols of perpetuity perhaps due to its robust physical characteristic.

Nowadays, couples exchange diamond rings to show their enduring love for each other. In engagements as well as weddings, diamonds proved to be the most popular, and needless to say, the most expensive. There are many kinds of diamond rings. Each has its unique characteristic to suit a persons style and preference. They also come in different colors and designs to choose from.

Bezel, channel, flush, and burnish are just some of the many settings of a diamond ring.

Of the many decorative variations of diamond rings, pave diamond engagement ring outshines others as it has its unique cunning appearance. How it acquires its facade lies in its pattern.

Taken from a French word which literally means "paved, pave diamond engagement ring has diamonds that are set very close together, without partitions, thereby resembling a cobblestone road. The precious stones are fixed in narrow conical holes and placed in just about equal level with the surface of the ring while its surrounding metals, usually made of white gold or platinum, are mounted forming tiny beads to support and hold these pave-set stones in place.

To enhance the exterior of the pave diamond engagement ring, the metal around these precious stones is impressed with ornamental designs.

Each tiny diamonds fully cut with 58 facets and weighing just a few points, though small in size, contributes a great deal to the overall sparkle of a pave diamond engagement ring. Its intricate, clever pattern makes it look like it has a continuous diamond surface thus it appears bigger than its original size, making it even more captivating and eye catching.

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Turn Trollbeads into Fasion Design Jewelry

By Ben Johnson

Now a day everything is commercial .To be an individual is not easy to be unique. It is easy to make out the common style as the fashion is for the mass market and the items are produced in mass. Jewelry is one of such fashions, designs of which are quite common, predictable and repeatable among masses. The troll beads jewelry is getting popular since the individualism is lost. Even the increasing interest in trollbeads jewelry can't forego the volume to be unique and individual. Hence for a very simple reason the trollbeads are so different in their make and color and also in their design and patterns. New patterns, styles and combinations are produced due to that difference for each taste and liking!!

"Charm" has a whole new meaning. More than thirty years after the first Troll bead was born in Denmark in 1976. Troll bead are famous from the last 30 years when the first pearl troll bead was found accidentally just by drilling a hole from that simple pearl now after this 30 years, there are number of style in the market according to the person style and liking. If you want to have pearl than go for pearl troll bead, if gold is you choice than go with glittering gold troll bead, if your preference goes with crystal than the glass trolled is the best option. There are many other troll beads available they are silver troll bead or the letter troll bead.

You can also individualize your very own jewelry with Letter Trollbeads. Who can beat a piece of unique jewelry with your very own initials!? Such Letter Trollbeads will also be the perfect gifts to your loved ones during this festival season of gift!

Another style of troll bead is OOAK troll beads .They come in such distinctly lilac, turquoise blue and even pink colors which will give a new look to your individualized jewelry. It will be so fascinating to have a matching color bracelet and necklace in your next party.

The limited availability of rare trollbeads can increase the value of your trollbead jewelry since these are the "historic" ones.

You can deign your own troll bead go with either of the deign or can go with a mix one , gold and silver Troll beads clasps which will complete the look which will give ultimate finishing to your jewelry.

The troll bead comes up with a box too keep up your aviate and exclusive collection all together to get an ease in selecting the right jewelry for the occasion. These boxes come up in different style and size.

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Review of the Wusthof Le Cordon Knives

By Moses Harun

Wusthof has been manufacturing top-quality knives for the kitchen for nearly two hundred years. In fact, Wusthof has collaborated with the Le Cordon Bleu Academie D'Art Culinare, the top cooking school in Paris, to form the Le Cordon Bleu branch of knives. These knives boast great blades and handles and are protected by a lifetime guarantee. There are some Wusthof Le Cordon Bleu knife sets on the market, too.

The quality knives used here have been engineered by Wusthof and Le Cordon Bleu to meet their goal of providing the top quality knives for home use. The knives included are very much like the knives used at the Le Cordon Bleu school in Paris. Every knife has been fashioned from durable stainless steel that is razor-sharp and simple to use. It is also simple to sharpen the edge when necessary. It also includes a bolster feature that increases the strength of these knives. Another nice option is the Wusthof Classic Hollow Edge Santoku Knife.

The handle is built in a dark black wooden design with three rivets to each handle. Each handle is also slightly grooved to provide for increased ease of use. The design of the handle also causes it to weigh less than other handles found on Wusthof knives. This makes the knives easier to manage.

What's more impressive is that, each of the knife sets are backed by a guarantee from Wustof. Each set is put together at Wusthof's factory in Solingen, Germany. Each set is guaranteed for life against any possible errors in the construction of the knives.

Another great plug for these quality knives is that they are used in various high end restaurants around the world. The manufacturing work of Wusthof and the assistance of Le Cordon Bleu have done a lot to make these knives popular among many restaurants.

There are various knife sets offered in this branch of restaurant-quality knives. Each set is packed with an eye toward protecting the knives, and each set is covered by Wusthof's lifetime guarantee in case the knives are banged up during shipping.

There are seven- and nine-piece sets available for you in blocks in the Le Cordon Bleu line. The seven-piece set has two paring knives of different sizes, a bread knife, a sandwich knife, a cook's knife, a sharpening steel rod, and a handy set of kitchen shears. The nine-piece set boasts these plus a Santoku knife and a straight meat fork.

Wusthof Le Cordon Bleu knife sets are justifiably considered the top sets produced by Wusthof. These quality knives are ones that feature varying blades and designs that are simple to use. They are so great that they are endorsed by the top culinary school in Paris and are being used in large number of different restaurants in both hemispheres. We also recommend the Wusthof Classic Hollow Edge Santoku Knife as a suitable alternative.

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Purchasing Wide Leg Boots Online

By Linda Jenkins

If you have larger calves, you've probably experienced the annoyance and disappointment that comes from shopping for wide leg boots in ordinary footwear stores. You could be a plus size, a runner or cyclist with lots of muscle, or just built with thicker calves than the shoe industry considers normal. No matter why you have trouble finding boots, you're probably sick of broken zippers and tight boot tops!

Fortunately, there's a solution that doesn't involve forgoing boots forever. Boots are currently a fashion essential, and no one wants to do without. Instead, consider ordering online from wide boot specialty retailers. After all, except for a few clunky, flexible boot styles like Uggs, most boots are made to fit very closely. You can find larger calf sizes in certain brands, if you know where to look.

There are some styles that work better for wide calves than others. If you've been looking for styles that aren't specialty boots but will still fit, you'll need to try these kinds first. Remember that this won't fix everything - very wide calves don't fit these boots. However, if your calves are only a little too wide, you may be able to choose suede-look stretch boots.

These boots not only fit - they can even make your calves look thinner. Of course, it's important to remember that your stretch boots never should feel like they're cutting your circulation off. If you feel like this is happening, check online for wide top boot styles instead. While stretch boots often look too small to fit at first, in most cases they expand to fit. Another great choice if your calves are "almost there" is to pick a slouch type.

Of course, if you decide to wear ankle boots instead, fitting the calf isn't an issue. Just remember that if you're wearing them with a skirt, your calf size will be highlighted, and your legs may even appear bigger than they really are. This is probably the main reason that celebrities who wear short skirts and short boots haven't started any major trends yet.

Fashion boots, with or without a heel, are a much more daunting prospect for most of us with larger calves. They don't yield, have stretch panels or lacing, and often sport zippers that make it hard for them to fit calves larger or smaller than they were designed for. Unfortunately, these boots are also currently very popular, and are a must with many current styles. So, if you're interested in keeping up with fashion, or just like sleek, high boots, you'll be concerned about getting ones that fit your legs.

There are a number of online retailers out there offering styles for large calves. It's easy to buy online, though you should check the seller's return policy in case of a bad fit. Measure the largest part of your calf in either inches or centimeters, depending on where you're ordering from, then match your calf size and the foot size you usually wear.

Remember to check shaft height as well, especially if you're on the petite side or if you have long legs. Most wide leg boots have some extra stretch built in - in case you have trouble measuring. They're a great choice for anyone who wants to look good and have boots that fit!

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Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Parental Guidance: Kids Spending Too Much?

By Alix Montoya

I'm sure you've noticed how tighter our budget has become. Prices of goods are skyrocketing into colossal proportions and there's pretty much nothing we can do about it but just pull up our belt a notch tighter, endure, and hope for better days. Unfortunately, the younger population seem to be completely oblivious to these events and we need to show them how to become more responsible about finances before it's completely too late.

Parents have the number one responsibility of teaching their children all about spending wisely. However, not a lot of parents out there dare to stand up or even completely forget all these completely. Some would even claim they don't know how. So if you're stuck clueless on money matter lessons, then here are a few useful tips to get your lessons started.

Teach your kids the real value of money. The best way you can make them understand this is by letting them experience the hard work that's needed to earn money. If your kids are a little older, it won't hurt them to get a job or start their own business, maybe even open up shop with their hobbies in Rhode Island craft shows. Kids tend to appreciate money more if they work hard for it.

Consider opening up a savings account. It's good to have a piggy bank to save some of their allowance or earnings in, but of course, while their at it, why not save it inside an actual bank instead. More and more banks nowadays carry special promotions for young savers and even teenage clients. There are a lot of things they offer that make the prospect even more enticing, like membership to special clubs and all that.

Show them how to budget. It's important to always have a plan to keep everything in order. This may be a bit frustrating, especially if our children tend to lose on some of the budget's aspects. Good thing, you're there to give support and teach them how to rectify financial woes, young as they are.

There are a lot of great ideas out there on how to make our kids more involved when it comes to saving the family from financial struggles. All we have to do, as parents, is show them the way and guide them with every step they take towards a more responsible future.

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Do Vegetarians Need Extra Nutrients

By Jim John

Being a vegetarian doesn't automatically mean you're going to be healthy. You can still stuff yourself with plenty of junk food products that don't contain meat. If you want to eat healthier, a vegetarian diet is a great way to go. But you're going to have to put a little extra time and effort into making sure you are getting all the nutrition your body needs.

Sometimes people who hear of your vegetarian diet will criticize your food choices and try to advise you of your nutritional intake. Be assured though that you should only have to make some minor adjustments to ensure all your nutritional needs are met. Keep in mind that you will need protein and other nutrients in amounts large enough so that leaving out meat products will not have an adverse effect on your diet. .Protein is necessary for our body to grow and to repair itself. Nutritionists tell us that twenty percent of our diet should be protein.

What are some of the ways a vegetarian can get protein into their diet without meat? The most well known vegetarian food is probably the versatile soybean. Soybean is used in the production of soymilk, tofu and tempeh. These products are a wonderful addition to any vegetarian diet and contain no animal products at all. You can find many products made from soy that can be a wonderful replacement for their meat counterparts.

So-called "soy chicken" and "soy meat" have greatly improved over the years. These days, you can't tell some of the chicken versions apart from the real thing. If you feed them to your meat-eating pals, they probably won't even guess what it is they're dining on. The transition from meat-eating to vegetarianism can be easy! These meat-substitute products are perfect for new vegetarians.

A common misconception is that a meatless diet is characteristically lacking in iron. However, that is completely untrue. Spinach is a great source of iron--where else could the Popeye legend have come from? Iron supplement pills are usually unnecessary, except in cases where the person is seriously deficient in iron. Not many people know that a large surplus of iron in the body is actually dangerous! Be careful when you start supplementing your diet in any way. Your diet should be able to provide you with everything you need, if you are vigilant.

Supplements can be a good way to make sure that you are getting everything you need in your diet. Of course, they are not necessary if your diet is rich in everything that your body requires. A good multi vitamin is a solution if you are lacking in any particular vitamin or mineral. You do not have to go to the vitamin store and purchase one of everything they have for sale. You can get away with taking a daily multivitamin that is formulated for vegetarians and you should be fine.

If you are careful of your diet and plan it to be healthy, taking into account foods that are packed with vegetarian nutrients, then you should not worry much about your body's daily requirements being fulfilled.

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What You Need To Know About Your Car Stereo

By Ferdinand Mekinsy

Another avenue of car stereo sales are at expos and conventions. Most of the time, the good stuff come out at expos, whether it be a car expo, audio system expo, but usually the largest car stereo sale happens at a gathering of car audio manufacturers. Well, at these kinds of expos and conventions, its not usually a sale because the manufacturers usually try to get buyers for their newest product. If you have the money and youre out there to buy some serious hardware, then by all means, SPLURGE AWAY!

There are two types of mounting in a car stereo installation. ISO mounting is when the radio can be screwed to existing factory radio brackets, such as in most Japanese cars. Ring mounting is when an aftermarket radio comes with a metal ring that gets mounted to the factory radio hole or aftermarket kit via bendable tabs. In many cars, dash and trim rings have to be filed to enlarge the radio hole. Once the ring is installed, the radio slides in and is held by snaps. In most cases, special tools are required to remove the radio.

Other tips which might help: Another way to get a discount car stereo is to SUBSTITUTE. Like cars, Japanese made units are often cheaper than German/European/American made units. Also, look at the basics. What is it that you need, as in the most BASIC FEATURES? Do you really need that mesmerizing LED display, or can you do without it? Goes for speakers too. If youre not going to enter a car audio competition and you just want to hear good treble and bass levels without making your speakers croak, maybe you can do away with a couple of 3way/4 way speakers. A big subwoofer will definitely need an amplifier, and those are already 2 things to buy.

For unconventional speaker locations, sometimes metal has to be cut. You might want to leave this to the professionals, tools like plasma cutters and pneumatics drills are required. But if youre going to insist, a pair of metal snips (left and right cut) will do.

Take a look at any good car stereo system and you will probably see a Pioneer car stereo unit plugged into the console. Alongside with quality speakers and a strong lineup of accessories like LCD panels and navigational devices, Pioneer products/Pioneer car stereos have earned a huge following the world over.

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Fulfil Your Desires With Costume Jewelry

By Eduard Rakting

Costume jewelry offers an easy but glamorous way for those with a penchant for ornaments but the lack of resources to fund it. At times, even those having the resources just cannot manage to keep up with the ever-changing styles in jewelry and fill up their closets accordingly. Possessing costume jewelry is the best resort in such times, which enables to fulfill your desires, but does not burn a hole in your pocket.

Also known as fashion jewelry or junk jewelry, these pieces are basically made of much less valuable stones and metals, such as base metals, glass, plastic and synthetic stones. Even the metals used in such costume jewelry have now considerably increased in variety, to include the likes of gold and silver plated brass, vermeil and sterling silver. If bought from a good store, which also has experienced designers and jewelry makers, costume jewelry can simply have a wonderful effect on your attire, adding that much-required look of latest fashion and glamour.

The secret of making the costume jewelry work to the best of advantage for you is to select the pieces carefully. Just do not pick up any piece of jewelry from a roadside shack, if it is not worth it. Instead, do a small survey and find out the best places offering good deals. Even costume jewelry can come in extremely poor qualities, which you unfortunately cannot make out unless you have worn them a couple of times.

Your Options

As you set out to get yourself that enchanting neckpiece, bracelet or an anklet, first know what places are really worth a visit. Ask a friend who wears these or go online for some more information. In the following sections, we've listed out some of the best quality options for you to choose from. This is just an example though, and you can find scores of options on your own as well.

To begin with, Estate Jewelry International has on offer, a vast range of designer costume jewelry within an affordable range. You can simply pick up the piece required from one of their many categories, including bridal, engagement ring vintage and the like. Another seller you must remember is Freesia, as they offer highly stylish costume jewelry, but at prices most of us can afford.

Even if costume jewelry is not making you spend a major chunk of your hard-earned income, you have all the right to make sensible choices and go only for stores that have a good reputation and promise you good worth for your money.

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The Real Problem With Kids And Cash

By Alix Montoya

While it is greatly convenient to let the kids have their own credit cards, more and more kids are becoming greatly indiscriminate when it comes to swiping their little plastic cards. The danger is usually very overlooked until it happens, by which time you can find yourself waist deep in credit card debt and your house full of useless junk.

Fortunately for you, this doesn't always have to be the case. You can teach your children how to become more responsible when it comes to dealing with money with the few simple ideas below. Now, I'm sure there are other ideas floating around out there, but here are a few to get you started.

You have to show your kids that money doesn't fall magically from the skies, it is earned. If your kids are little, you can try giving them a couple of responsibilities around the house and then reward them for a job well done. If they're a little bit older, you can ask them to find a job or start their own business, I hear Tennessee craft shows are a great way to do that.

Tell them to save some of their money up. By telling them about saving a portion of their allowance or earnings up, you teach them discipline and responsibility. Sit down with your kid and discuss opening up a savings account. Show them how their money can increase due to interest from the bank. Or try to convince them about starting out a college fund which would greatly help them after high school.

Let them participate when you're handling the household budget. You can be a great example in showing responsibility when it comes to handling money and allowing them to see you at your budgeting best is probably a great way to lead by example. You can tell them all about the advantages of keeping a budget and how this greatly helps in keeping the household in order.

It's always best to keep our children from letting themselves get caught in a web of overspending, even at a very early age. So why don't you teach them a thing or two about saving up and you may be saving them from a future filled with debt and junk.

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Wind Power's Future Role

By David Sullivan

As energy costs rise and fossil fuel supplies dry out, more and more people are becoming concerned with the availability and future cost of energy. Energy sources are beginning to emerge that have never been as cost effective, but are completely renewable. Many of these energies are completely environment-friendly, as well.

If you are considering alternative energy sources as a way to get off the grid or just to reduce your energy costs, you may want to consider building a wind turbine generator. This will provide you a way to go green and save you money.

You'll want to make sure your location will be suitable before you build a wind turbine generator. You'll want to look at your zoning laws, your neighborhood, and consider how much electrical power you want to generate. You'll need either at least a half an acre of open land or you'll need a tower higher than anything in your immediate surrounding area so the blades can catch the wind. The average wind speed in your area will determine how much energy you can generate.

If you have a good location with a good wind speed, these wind powered generators can make a big dent in your power bill. Some people have been able to build wind turbine machines that not only provide enough power for their home, but an entire farm and even create additional power.

They can then earn money by selling the surplus energy to local power companies. This doesn't require any special gear - you just need to be wired into the grid. Your energy meter will start spinning backwards as you feed power into the grid.

Some people end up with only a turbine or two because of zoning restrictions or backyard size restrictions, but you can still manage to save a large amount of your power bill.

Many have built homemade wind turbines already and can save up to 50% of their energy bill with just one turbine. These types of turbines can also be made in only a few weeks, depending on how much effort you are willing to put in and how much spare time you have.

Turbines are very little maintenance and can last a long time. They are cheap and can be mounted almost anywhere on a simple pole. Help the environment and save lots of money for years on your power bill!

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Starting A Woodworking Business Tips

By Greg F Williams

If you desire to increase your income and love woodwork, then you should maybe think about starting a home based business. A individual who has good woodworking skills can easily start his or her business from home, start small and build a portfolio of your best work.

If you want to make a career in woodworking then it is indeed an excellent idea. There are many examples of individuals who have become rich with the aid of a woodworking business. If you are truly serious then it is just a matter of time to become successful in this business. Woodworking businesses can be regarded as a good source of income. If you love to work with wood then there should not be any problem in starting a woodworking business.

Many have doubled their income by doing woodworking part time. Handcrafted wood is in great demand. If the handcrafted wood has a exquisite design and is of good quality then you can simply ask the price you want from the customer. If you are good at wooden toys then it is indeed a golden opportunity to begin a woodworking business at home. Kids simply love to play with wooden toys. Most wooden products are marketable today.

If you are a skilled worker in making furniture such as cabinets, chairs and so forth, then you should not think twice to start a woodworking business. Cabinets and chairs are used every day and are as well in great demand. Therefore there is no way that you will remain idle if you begin a woodworking business. In fact the orders of producing cabinets and furniture will be so much that you will have to engage skilled workers.

At present the woodworking business is booming. Thus there is no reason that you will be in loss if you begin a woodworking business. If you have the skill and talent then you can easily make money in a woodworking business.

If you want to start a woodworking business then you should know the necessities for opening this business. More significantly you should be clear about the type of wooden products that are going make. From the type of wooden products you will get a definitive idea about the tools and supplies that you will need to begin your business.

You can also promote your business through newspapers to pull in prospective clients. You can also create your own web site where the customers can instantly get a glimpse of your products. A website is indeed a good way to show window all your wooden products. You should also the name of suppliers in your city that can provide various woods as well as wood handling tools.

At any cost inferior material should not be used in making wooden products. Quality is important specially in wooden products that would be used daily. A inferior product will unquestionably spoil your reputation which will have an adverse effect on your woodworking business.

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Choose Your Kitchen Bars With A Cherry Theme

By Carl Esonhouse

Thinking of a theme for your kitchen is the best way to chalk out how the interior decoration of your kitchen would be like. A fruit dcor is one such theme that gives the kitchen a very snug and welcoming ambience. It is not only evoking a metaphor of food and eating but it exudes the much-wanted comfort and warmth.

A cherry kitchen dcor is probably the most innovative and fashionable of all fruit dcors. It gives a very colorful look to the kitchen with its many shades of green, red and white. A number of outlets of home dcor offer beautiful cherry kitchen dcor which are surprisingly available at a very affordable price.

Tips You Should Know

To start with, if you are confused with how to go about the whole process of cherry theme then as an alternative way, you can fill up the kitchen with utensils and appliances in mainly red, white and green shades. Plates, cutlery, napkins of these hues or may be with a cherry pattern printed, are just ideal to give the cherry kitchen dcor to your kitchen.

Choosing the upholstery of the kitchen, like the curtains and the tablecloth, with cherry patters on it can also be another unique way to add a zing to your kitchen dcor. It will immediately create an impact and will easily scream out your kitchen theme. Adding cherry themed appliances such as espresso machines is also a great idea.

Shops That You Should Check Out

It may not be known to everybody that the cherry kitchen dcor as a theme is very easy to put up in a kitchen as there are many shops that offer decorations and appliances with cherry patterns and these come quite handy when you are remodeling your kitchen. There are discount stores like the Target which provide you with sophisticated upholstery and stylish accessories and that too at a very affordable price. They also offer cherry kitchen dcor for kitchen theme purpose. Their online store www.target.com can be visited for more idea of their range of stock and their price.

Apart from this there is also one online shopping site, www.funnytummy.com which provides information regarding thematic appliances for kitchens. The products range from cherry themed clothes and cherry designed clocks and other such unique items that can add a much customized look to your kitchen.

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Monday, December 29, 2008

Bathroom Plumbing Ideas Discussed

By Santi Binbero

DIY is more popular than it has ever been, many people will try doing a spot of DIY around the house if they feel in the right mood. Some people are scared by the thought of DIY, in fact some people will find themselves reaching for the phone book when they hear a DIY project.

Although it's not a good idea to attempt plumbing projects by yourself it is often possible to do many simpler products.

It is true that DIY plumbing can save you a fortune, however if you try to fix something that is very difficult then you could end up paying a lot more money when you have to fix whatever it is you tried to resolve. In order to save money and get the best results from DIY plumbing you need to be honest with yourself and not try to do anything that is out of your capability.

Admit when You Need Help!

Before you embark on any plumbing project by yourself you should try to learn as much as you can. There are plenty of places to ask for advice, friends and family or even at your local DIY store. Ask yourself whether you think you're capable of doing this project.

If it's something as simple as the cistern lever in your toilet which needs to be replaced then it might be easier for you to replace the whole push button system rather than fiddling about with the single part. You should never think that a job is easy, you must learn exactly what you need to do.

It might be a good idea to buy a DIY book which has some information about basic bathroom plumbing projects. These books should be able to help you avoid some of the common problems which affect people attempting DIY. You should try to find a book which is easy to understand so that you don't need anyone to help you understand it!

Two Hands or Four?

Many people think that projects are simple, they have a habit of underestimating the jobs. You might need an extra pair of hands to help you hold something or do something while you are doing another task.

You should carefully consider the job from every angle before you start work. You can get lots of advice from someone else, especially if they are helping you out. If something goes wrong then you can ask for help from your friend.

It is possible to do certain plumbing projects in your bathroom by yourself, however it's not possible to do everything. It is important that you know a good plumber in case you do make a mess!

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Stress Less this Holiday Season

By Cathy Messecar

Each year, Christmas arrives on December 25th, and yet, it tends to "sneak" up on some of us as if we had no clue about the actual date of the holiday. In November, I begin to verbally remind myself "Christmas is coming. Christmas is coming." Plus, I implement the following five tips of preparation to help me embrace the holiday instead of dismaying over its arrival.

1. As early as possible (preferably November) make time to clean your home and tuck away your life clutter, because Christmas brings its own bag of extras such as wrapping paper, baking, and maybe even Uncle Abner and Aunt Thelma for a five day stay. In December, none of the regular household duties and errands stop-the dust mites still need corralling, the kiddos still have piano practice and homework. 2. Plan December meals ahead by marking them on a calendar page. Scale back for everyday meals and keep them as simple and inexpensive as possible. If you can, have the ingredients in your pantry and freezer at the beginning of the month. This will save time and money and extra trips to the supermarket and being enticed to spend more. Those Christmas carols are funneled into the stores for a reason, and it's not totally "goodwill toward men." If I hear carols in July, I at least want to mop my floors with Pine-Sol. 3. Display in your home a symbol of why you celebrate Christmas. On her dining table, my mother placed a red Bible opened to Luke chapter 2, as part of the holiday centerpiece, a reminder of why our family cherished the season. Gentle prompts can help us focus on others and not so much on our long to-do lists. 4. As early in December as possible, gather your immediate family and list your holiday traditions, and then take a family poll. Find out which ones are favorites. Do any customs get shoulder shrugs? Consider dropping those and simplifying your December. Is there a stickler among you who has to have Aunt Margaret's plum pudding? If so, enlist their help in hunting down suet and cheesecloth. 5. Relax. Relax. Relax. Don't set your expectations too high. Things will and can go wrong. Holiday trees will topple, souffls will fall. Those happenings don't ruin a holiday-they can make memories or they can cause attitudes to plunge south. Choose to laugh at those minor incidents. Laughter can grant more warmth to the holidays than perfect tinsel and trimmings.

My co-authors and I give several calming down tips in our book A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts. Here's a sampling:

In your home, designate a chair for a resting place and dub it "Santa's Chair." Tie a huge red bow on it and announce to your family that whoever needs a rest or just ten minutes of peace, they are to sit in the chair. The rest of the family is to respect this short respite and leave them alone for those 10 minutes. Parents, this can give you a brief rest or your children an oasis of refreshment. It can be a sanity saver.

Another tip we share in the book is called "Silent Night Hour." Families are in need of quiet and silence. You may need to start out with 10 minutes of silence and work up to an hour of quiet time. During this prescribed time, family members are to turn off all electronics and not answer the phone (preferably turn off the ringer/s). They can read, do homework or work on any low-noise project. No silent text messaging either-try to eliminate incoming disturbances and see if this time of silence offers an invitation for peace and calm to descend and settle lives. Even preschoolers like to play this "quiet game."

Cathy Messecar is co-author of A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts ~ Stories to Warm Your Heart and Tips to Simplify Your Holiday and author of The Stained Glass Pickup. Visit Cathy at www.cathymessecar.com For other December holiday tips visit http://scrapbookofchristmasfirsts.blogspot.com/ or www.christmas-scrapbook.info

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The Rewarding Hobby of Leather Craft

By Ethan O. Tanner

Leatherworking can be a lot of fun, but if you are just starting out, it can prove to be quite a challenge. There are many items that you can create when leatherworking. These items are great to sell at flea markets, online, or in a yard sale. You may even choose to give these items as gifts throughout the year for various occasions. We will review the basics of leatherworking so that you can get a start on that long list of projects.

Leatherworking usually only requires a few basic tools for beginners. You will want to purchase a ruler, or measuring tape. The next thing that is required is a pen, pencil, or marker that will be visible on the leather so that you can draw the desired pattern. You will also want to purchase a knife, leather shear or some type of special sharp object to cut the leather as you are working with it. Lastly, you will want to go to a craft specialty store and purchase needles that are designed to work with leather. Once you have all of your basic tools, the next step is to purchase the leather.

When purchasing leather, you may want to do some make inquiries and shop around a little. If you are looking for cheap leather, it is best to shop at local thrift stores and flea markets. Most leather purchased at these diverse types of venues are great in quality, and low in price. This is the best way to shop for leather when you are new to leatherworking.

If you go to a craft specialty store, or a leather store, you will find that leather ranges in cost based on type, thickness, and overall weight. This can prove to be more costly as leather is sold by the square foot. there are many online places to purchase leather, and if you know the basics of leather you may find good values in leather.

Once you have purchased all the materials that you will need for your project, you must decide the best methods of making sure that the pieces are bound together. It is important that you do not use pins and other types of products to bind your material as these things often leave a type of scarring on the material. However, you can use mild glue or clips in order to bind the leather together so that you can work with it without difficulty.

Once you are ready to create the project, you can choose to sew or lace the thread onto the leather. If you choose to sew the material, you should only use a sewing needle intended for leatherworking. These types of needles cut as you sew and make it quite easy to finish your leatherworking project. You can also choose to lace your leather craft project. Basically, you simply make holes at equal intervals all the way through the piece of leather and then weave the thread in and out.

There are many different kinds of stitches that you can use when crafting leather. You can select from a saddle stitch, a running stitch, a cross stitch, or a whip stitch. It is best to find what works for you and the leatherworking job that you are working on.

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What's So Good About The Omron HJ 720 ITC Pedometer

By Ron Packardy

I know there are quite a few different pedometers available at the moment, but there are a couple of very good reasons why you should pick an HJ 720ITC from Omron.

The first reason is that this is a pedometer that uses a much improved measuring system for determining how much movement actually counts as a pace. In other words, it's brilliant at accurately keeping track of how many steps you've taken.

For us, that means a much more accurate pedometer, but also one that doesn't have to be clipped to your belt. With these, you can just drop them into your pocket, bag or purse and forget about it. A small feature, but one that I think makes a huge difference. Just imagine you're in a rush and you have to make a quick decision about whether to take your pedometer with you. All you have to do is drop it into your pocket.

And not only that, the HJ 720 ITC also lets you download all the information it collects to your own computer. It's got a short 7-day memory, and a longer 42-day memory. You can see the 7 day information on the pedometer itself, but then you can also download 42 days worth of information to your computer.

The pedometer also comes with some special software called the Omron Health Management Package. You install this onto your PC and it allows you to view and manage the data with graphs and charts. It also works with other products from Omron such as their heart rate monitor and their blood pressure monitor. I think this is great for people that want to do more than just keep track of their walking or running progress.

I personally think the memory function is great and I use it to track my progress over the weeks. Also, I didn't realize it initially, but I find doing this actually increases the amount of exercise I do. It's because when I see I haven't done enough exercise, I feel as if I need to make up the difference, so I always do extra the next day. I'm fairly sure I wouldn't do that if I wasn't able to keep track over time.

One thing I realized as I'm writing this, is that the Omron 720 ITC is actually a brilliant idea for a gift. Yes, it's a lot of fun to use, but it's also a really practical and useful bit of kit. So if you buy one for your partner, not only will you be getting them a very cool gadget, you'll also be getting them something which will help take care of their health. What better way to show someone you care about them?

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Creating Jewelry for Fun and Earnings

By Ethan O. Tanner

An old proverb pronounces that work isn't really work if you delight in what you're doing. If one of your avocations is jewelry making, why not turn this activity into a generator of profit? You're already enjoying it anyway, and it wouldn't take a good deal of additional effort to share your jewelry creations with people who would value them and be willing to pay for them. With a little extra work, time management and discipline, jewelry making is an outstanding way to have fun and earn a bit of extra revenue on the side.

Whether you're just beginning your entrance into the jewelry making line of business or whether you're already a professional jeweler, there are always various key aspects to regard. First, it's fundamental to have a decent work space where you can work unbothered for a set duration of time every day and where you can keep your jewelry making materials and instruments. It doesn't have to be a humongous space, just a corner or room where you can center on bringing your thoughts to life and set yourself aside from unwanted distractions.

If you haven't already, decide on the kind of jewelry you are going to make. If you're just getting your feet wet in the jewelry making arena, start out with something simple. Think about what type of jewelry you'd enjoy and feel comfortable wearing and go on from there. Whatever materials you might need are readily available either on the Internet or in a physical retail store. Then, as you become more adept at what you're doing, you can start exploring other, more complex jewelry making techniques. Remember, there is a plethora of information resources to help you make money from your hobby: books, specialty magazines, the Internet, and other jewelry makers.

After you've made a number of jewelry items, there are steps you can take to get other people interested in them. Be a walking advertisement for your jewelry making business. Wear some of your creations whenever you go out: wear them to work, when you go to the supermarket, or when you attend parties. Word of mouth is also a great way to let other people know about your jewelry making endeavor. Show some of your finished pieces to family and friends, and encourage them to spread the word.

The most valuable thing to remember is that you retain your enjoyment in jewelry making and that you pride yourself in your creations. Your love for this avocation and business will provide you with mental and financial rewards. Your passion for jewelry making will be the utmost agent in nurturing your creative thinking level and it will permit you to invent the designs that appreciative clients will buy. Always keep the 'fun' factor in jewelry making, as this will be mirrored in your portfolio, and the 'revenue' element will succeed.

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Mens Hair Care Products

By Jennifer Summers

There are a lot of mens hair products available to buy on the market today, and it is often not so easy to know which range you should choose, and which product from that range is the best one for your hair and the one you should be using. It is highly recommended that you use a high quality premium brand hair product for men as this usually guarantees good results. Here are the four best ranges of mens hair products you can find:

Pashana - * Pashana Eau de Portugal Hair Tonic: An excellent finishing product for normal to dry hair that also helps to invigorate the scalp, formulated from an original Portuguese recipe. * Pashana American Bay Rum Hair Lotion: Originally from the West Indies, traditionally uses aromatic oil distilled from Bay leaves soaked in pure Bay Oil and Rum. * Pashana Eau de Quinine Hair Tonic: Quinine, known for its curative properties, is derived from the Chinchona Bark found in South America where it is used as a local anaesthetic and in hair tonics and sunscreen preparations.

Dax - * Dax Wave and Groom: Wave and groom is effective on hair which is no longer that 2 - 3 inches long. It is formulated specially to bring out the natural wave pattern of short hair. * Dax Vegetable Oil Shampoo: Another heavy duty product. This is the best available to get excess Dax out of your hair (with the exception of super-neat which is water soluble). * Dax Green and Gold: Dax Green and Gold is a specially formulated wax that is made from Beeswax and natural oils. Green and Gold offers a superior hold without the unwanted build up or drying of the hair.

Black and White - * Black and White Pomade: Black and White Genuine Pluko is a versatile hair dressing that allows you to mould, sculpt and create texture. * Black and White Lite Pomade: Black and White Pluko Lite is a versatile hair dressing that helps to keep hair manageable and textured all day. Provides light control and superior shine with natural conditioning oils. * Black and White Shampoo: Black and White Pluko Shampoo. Black and White shampoo is renowned for its quick removal of product build-up and cleansing of the scalp.

Fudge - * Fudge Matte Hed: Firm hold texturising paste. Get some flexible style to your head with firm hold Matte Hed. Work through your hair for definition and movement with extreme matte texture. * Fudge Hair Shaper: Get onto the hard stuff with this strong hold multi-purpose styling tool that really goes the distance. Texturise, mould, piece or simply just shag it out any way you want for that totally 'lived-in' look. * Fudge Hair Putty: Travel first class all the way with Putty, the perfect sculpting tool for maximum moulding. Blow-dry it in for extra body and kick, or finish it off for absolute moulding power with a medium hold.

Using the right product on your hair will definitely help to give you the results that you are looking for. And when you choose a high quality premium brand range, you can be certain that the hair product will contain the best ingredients for helping you choose the style and look that you are after. You cannot go wrong with the four ranges listed above.

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Brilliant Kitchen Decor Ideas For You

By Cliff Eppalton

Irrespective of your kitchen being small or huge, in a rural atmosphere, country kitchen dcor fits effortlessly into any kind of kitchen. Unless, the remaining rooms is done in modern styles, this can be a success with addition of particular accessories. With a good coordination of your efforts in little steps at a time, the beauty of the country can be apparent by stressing the pieces of country kitchen dcor and putting it all together in harmony.

More often than not, there is some lack of information regarding country kitchen dcor as some believe that handmade items can be used only as a decorative tool. Whereas many objects look good in the setting, some items are bound to look out of place in your kitchen next to your coffee machine. Focusing on the theme country, put your own photographs of the outdoors or pieces of metal objects in the kitchen. If your house in a dairy land, old world containers of milk can be used as umbrella stands and plants can be kept in metal tubs for a whole new look.

Many people are fond of roosters and chickens and little ceramic pieces can be used to accent a shadow box made from an ancient wooden crate, rounding off handsomely your country kitchen dcor.

Matching accent pieces complete the look

Appliqud towels coordinated with foot rugs can add a cool look to the area. However, you will have to let every member of your family know that the towels are just for display and not use. These towels do not survive long after a few wash. To bring out the best for your country kitchen dcor, getting burner covers for your stove matching the rugs and towels can create an entire and wholesome look to bring out a single effect. You can also get covers for your appliances such as the toaster, one pot coffee maker or even your mixer.

If you have planned to refurnish your kitchen in only country style, that means your kitchen already has a large wooden table. If there is no wooden table, a table cloth with country prints can be put over a Formica table top until you can get a wooden table. Cushions for the seats in bright country shades can accomplish the country kitchen dcor. In the majority of kitchens the chair pads are tied to the back of ladder-back chairs or spindles with just sufficient tie left out to hang beautifully from the backs.

The curtains are the last but not the least part of the look. They should match well not only with the rest of the clothes used in the room but also go well with the color on the walls. Put at the centre of the table fresh flowers of the season to compliment the country kitchen dcor. When its winter and no flowers to meet, replace them with bowls of clay fruits or vegetables to sign off the country charm even in the freezing cold.

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Information about Karaoke Equipment

By Mike Anderson

If someone asked, would you admit to singing in the shower? How about along with the radio while driving down the road? There are some songs that just get stuck in your head and make you want to belt them out. If you like to sing, perhaps you should consider karaoke equipment. With the advancing popularity of this past time, discount karaoke music cdgs are becoming readily available. If you have been to a club or a party with karaoke equipment, you may already be familiar with the set-up. Karaoke equipment includes a screen that displays the words, microphones and a speaker, and the player that uses discs with the words that appears on the screen. Discount karaoke music cdgs allow you to have a wide variety of music for people to sing.

Once you have decided that you want to buy karaoke equipment, you can determine if you just want a simple home setup where friends can come over and sing, or a more commercial quality sound system. Karaoke equipment comes in a wide variety of choices, from very simple for the amateur, to moderately sturdy equipment that allows smaller venues to offer karaoke, to large commercial products where the sound will carry in crowded and noisy environments. Whatever you are looking for, there is a product that will match your needs. The types of music available on discount karaoke music cdgs provide entertainment for any crowd. You and your friends and family will be sure to enjoy singing to all kinds of music, including popular hits, Latin music, children's CD's, Elvis, motion picture music and everything in between. You can decide which key will work better for you and buy your CDs to compliment your singing style.

When you own your own karaoke equipment, not only will you be able to host great parties, but by selecting the right discount karaoke music cdgs, you will be able to practice at home. By having your own equipment, you can boost your confidence by rehearsing in the privacy of your own home. Once you have mastered the music, take it away with a killer performance at a local club in front of a crowd. No matter what level of performance you desire, you can benefit from karaoke equipment. Karaoke is a low cost entertainment venue that will entertain your family and friends, and will bring you closer together. Share the music, share the memories. Invest in your karaoke equipment and discount karaoke music cdgs today and start rehearsing your favorite music.

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Sunday, December 28, 2008

How Does Aging Affect Your Hair?

By Jennifer Summers

At any age grey hair can materialize. It's not always an indication of aging, it's caused by a dropping off in pigmentation (grey hair) or a complete lack of pigment (white hair), and the basis for it is not fully known. The most obvious symbol of aging is the changing colour of our hair. As we age our hair produces less melanin, the same melanin that gives our skin its colour. This is the reason our hair turns grey.

Aging also affects our hair in other ways. As we age our hair is prone to becoming drier, and so requires more moisture than ever before. Older hair also loses some of its elasticity and the texture changes. Some women will notice that their hair becomes thinner and lacks life, for others it appears dry and coarse. This happens because as we age, the size of the hair follicles diminish and hair growth slows. As a result there is not so much new growth to replace what we lose.

Sebum (oil produced naturally by our skin) diminishes as our body ages, and so our hair, therefore, loses its natural shine and smoothness. Plus, during the menopause our making of keratin slows. This protein fibre is vital to keeping our hair healthy and strong. For all you guys, there is the subject of going bald, thinning hair and coarse hair, especially the facial hair. Opt for the right type of hair colour to disguise your grey hair, but don't go more than a couple of shades darker or lighter than your own hair colour. If you use a dark colour it can accentuate a dull complexion.

If you wish to keep your grey, try to use a hair shampoo and conditioner that is targeted specially for grey hair. Grey hair can look yellow or greenish on a number of people. To neutralize the yellow colour and leave your hair shiny and good-looking, try using a greying shampoo that has a violet based colour, instead of your usual shampoo. Highlights or lowlights can camouflage any grey you want to mask by blending them into the rest of your hair. The same with hair colourants, keep away from going more than a couple of shades lighter than your own hair colour to steer clear of looking older than you really are.

Moisturizing (conditioning) is a must for older hair. Use a weekly deep conditioning treatment - recommended for aging hair. This will help to maintain the moisture levels in your hair. With aging your hair loses its elasticity and this makes it harder to style, so try using a protein treatment at least once a month to help your hair along. For men and women, thinning hair can be given a more voluminous appearance by using volumizing products such as conditioners and mousses.

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How to Buy a New Motorcycle Helmet

By Frank Medley

If you're buying a new motorcycle helmet for the first time, or for the first time in years, you may be surprised at how many choices you have available. How will you know what the best helmet is for you?

One of the first things you need to decide in order to buy a new motorcycle helmet is what style is right for you. Are you interested in the safest helmet available, or do you want more freedom?

If you are interested in safety above all else, a full face design is right for you in buying a new motorcycle helmet. These are specifically designed to protect your chin and face as well as your head in an accident.

For those who like the freedom and feel of having the wind in their face, and open face helmet is right for you. These protect the top and sides or your head, while leaving your face open to the wind.

Once you've decided on a helmet design, you need to decide how you'd like it to look. There are many different colors to choose from, including metallic, and a lot of cool and customizable graphics.

After you've decided on a style and design for your helmet, it's time to find what safety certification is right for you. A DOT certified helmet means it has been tested by its manufacturer, and meets minimum government set safety standards.

If you are looking for a helmet that has been tested in many different ways and conditions, try a Snell certified helmet. These are independently lab tested, but are also often expensive.

If it's time to buy a new motorcycle helmet, don't be intimidated. You can find them at your local bike shop, or by searching online. Just keep in mind what you're looking for in your new helmet.

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How To Make Carp Fishing Baits And Save Money With Homemade Bait

By Tim Richardson

We fishermen pay lots of money for readymade fishing baits! The fact is that if they were so wonderful, companies would not have to keep on offering new baits all the time! Just the same number of fish or more, can be caught as a result of making your own unique baits and this will save you bags of money too!

Every time I have used a homemade bait that is different to the popular baits on a water, big fish have appeared and this is one of those definite points about carp which you can exploit using homemade baits. Fish learn by association and will find your new baits much harder to resist than popular readymades that already have been exploited. This difference is often the factor that decides if you get a run of big fish, or just average results, or series of memorable personal best fish sessions or lots of blanks!

Now I'm not saying that you will produce a wonder bait which fish simply jump straight into your net and beg for! Even with the very best baits, all the usual skills of fish location, bait application and skilfully playing your big fish are still required. But on your own homemade baits, the rewards and joys of catching your personal life time best fish on your personal secret bait formula is just incredible. This is why it is so important to exploit the massive fish catching factor of making your baits very unique.

This is a point lost on most readymade bait users! The great edge of bait is being different to ones fish wary of already as a result of previous hooking and captures on it. So make your baits as unique as possible as frequently as you think your results indicate you may need to.

Popular baits in many ways do have a shelf life in terms of longevity of effectiveness. Top bait manufacturers will tell you that even in a stock pond which has never been fished, when a new bait has been fished intensively by a number of anglers successfully, their results can slow right up even literally to the point of no more fish being caught on that bait. (This is no exaggeration, for example Gary Bayes of the international bait company Nashbaits told me of his experience of this!) Many baits exploit highly concentrated flavors in order to affect bait pH to stimulate fish. Others use the biological nutritional value approach and call their baits food baits for this reason.

I could not believe how easy and simple it was for me to make baits that hooked big fish straight away literally while still hot, even using the most basic of ingredients. Homemade baits can be just amazingly instant and fill you will so much confidence. I do not even bother to make baits that have a round or barrel shape or an even skin at all and I most often do not even boil them to make them resilient boilies either. This is because your greatest edge with bait is their difference. Therefore if you bait feels different, has a different shape, colour, texture, buoyancy, density, firmness or softness or permeability or solubility for example, then it is far more likely to out-fish readymades with ease! That is why making homemade baits is so easy.

You do not have to make individual baits in round shapes. Why not roll out a bait paste made of eggs, liquid additives and dry powders made into a dough and simply cut this into little odd shaped pieces? You could pop these into a pan of boiling water for about a minute or so to make boilies.

Making homemade bait is as hard as finding a bowl a mixing spoon or knife, a few eggs and some flours or other dry ingredients. Many flours about the house will bind to form a bait, from semolina and soya to maize and corn flour, and dried rice flour. For example, crack 5 or 6 eggs into a bowl and whisk them adding any flavouring or liquids additives you might choose, like ketchup or a flavoring from the baking aisle of your local store. Take 8 ounces of semolina and the same of soya flour and slowly add to your eggs until a dough the feel of putty is made. It is very easy and quick and with practice you can do this at lightening speed!

When your dough is ready you can use it immediately, or put it labelled plastic bags for later use. Store baits in the fridge or freeze them. It is best to make a note of the ingredients and levels in each individual bait mix. To make around a kilogram of bait it takes about 6 eggs with your dry powders. But this is a very rough guide and every mix can vary widely depending on ingredients, their solubility etc.

Considering you can easily make very economical baits even with better food nutrition value than just carbohydrate baits like the one described, it is still shocking to work out just how much money you can save. You can produce very effective big fish baits for 2 or 3 pounds or about 6 dollars per kilogram compared to shop prices of 5 or 6 times this cost. The total cost of 10 kilograms of readymade baits can be 80 to 120 pounds, while your homemade bait can cost you just 20 or 30 pounds, saving you 60 to 100 pounds for every 10 kilograms of readymade bait!

The best advantage of all is you can make your baits as different to normal as you like. Remember, being different is what really counts. Most frequently it is the most different and alternative homemade baits which tempt the very biggest and wariest of fish. You can start off with the simple bait here, but you might like to find out more if you really want to get cracking and hit the big-time!

By Tim Richardson.

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American Crew Shampoo: The Best in Men's Hair Care American Crew

By Jennifer Summers

American Crew Shampoo... some of the finest shampoos available for men's hair. Using very high quality natural ingredients, American Crew Shampoo delivers first rate cleansing, conditioning and treatment while promoting a classic style for men's grooming products. There are 6 shampoos in the American Crew Shampoo range.

American Crew Tea Tree Shampoo is an ideal moisturizing cleanser for the hair and scalp. Using a blend of herbs and natural oils, this Tea Tree shampoo cleanses and treats both the scalp and the hair. With American Crew Tea Tree Shampoo your hair is gently restored and conditioned. Irish Moss Extract - Soothes irritations and nourishes hair and scalp. Black Tea Extract - A protective antioxidant that has topical anti-inflammatory benefits. Tea Tree Oil - Serves as an antiseptic and cleansing agent and helps to heal scalp issues. Nettle Extract - A nourishing tonic that stimulates circulation of the scalp.

American Crew Daily Moisturizing Shampoo naturally tones and moisturizes the hair and scalp. This moisturising shampoo contains Hydrolized Wheat Protein, Sage Extract and Rice Bran oil to moisturize and condition the hair without weighing it down. American Crew Daily Moisturizing Shampoo soothes and replenishes, leaving the scalp healthy and refreshed. This shampoo is ideal for dry hair. Rice Bran Oil - Adds sheen, elasticity and moisture. Quillaja (Panama Bark) - Gentle, natural cleanser that doesn't strip natural oils from the hair. Chamomile Extract - Soothing, softening and moisturizing agent. Rosemary Thyme Extracts - Naturally tones and moisturizes the scalp.

American Crew Peppermint Cleanse Shampoo Liberate your hair and scalp with American Crew Peppermint Cleanse Shampoo. Formulated with Peppermint and Tea Tree Oils, this deep cleansing shampoo removes build-up of styling product, excessive dirt and oil and environmental pollutants that weigh hair down. Peppermint Oil - Stimulates the scalp and helps to break down residue in the hair. Hops - A natural astringent with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Tea Tree Oil - Natural antiseptic that promotes healing, penetrates quickly and is beneficial for problematic skin. Ginseng Root Extract - Nourishes and tones the scalp without over drying. Rosemary Extract - Naturally moisturizes and conditions hair and scalp.

American Crew Daily Shampoo contains Panama Bark extract, a natural cleanser that gently cleanses and conditions the hair and scalp, and doesn't strip natural oils from the hair. This popular shampoo also contains Wheat Protein which adds shine and strength while Rosemary and Thyme extracts naturally tone and moisturize the scalp. American Crew Daily Shampoo is suitable for normal to dry hair. Quillaja (Panama Bark) - Gentle, natural cleanser that doesn't strip natural oils from the hair. Wheat Protein - Adds shine and strength. Rosemary Thyme Extracts - Naturally tones and moisturizes the scalp. pH Balanced - Avoids drying the hair and scalp.

American Crew Citrus Mint Active Shampoo is a balancing shampoo for everyday use. Citrus Mint Shampoo contains a balancing blend of natural citrus cleansers that work to gently remove dirt without stripping the hair of essential oils. Peppermint and Spearmint stimulate the scalp. This citrus shampoo is excellent for all hair types and is also safe for color treated hair. Wheat Protein - Increases hair strength and sheen. Color Safe - Excellent on color treated hair - will not cause color fading. All Natural Oils (a blend of Lime, Orange, Peppermint and Spearmint) - No synthetic fragrances. Natural, gentle cleansers that won't strip hair of essential oils. Natural fragrance that cleanses, soothes and awakens the senses. Certified organic grapefruit extract. Polyquaterium-10 - A complex conditioning agent that provides volume and improves hair texture and imparts natural shine.

American Crew Anti Dandruff Shampoo is formulated for problem scalps, effectively promoting healthy looking hair and scalp. The active ingredient, Zinc Pyrithione, helps prevent the itching and flaking associated with dandruff. This dandruff shampoo gently cleanses conditions and moisturizes leaving hair feeling great. Methylisothiazolinone - Antimicrobial and antifungal agent. Zinc Pyrithione - Helps prevent itching and flaking associated with dandruff. Menthol - Cools and refreshes the scalp.

American crew provide shampoos that cover all the needs a man could have for his hair, whether it is problem hair, colored hair, or even just a normal shampoo to be used in a daily basis.

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Causes of greasy hair, and best products/shampoo for greasy hair

By Jennifer Summers

Greasy hair can look oily and dull, and have a lank and lifeless appearance. It can look flat and heavy, and it never seems to stay clean and fresh. It takes on a stringy appearance within a few hours of shampooing and refuses to stay full and fluffy. Does this describe your hair? Do you ask the question, why is my hair greasy? Greasy hair can cause social embarrassment as others may judge that the sufferer has poor hygiene and does not wash their hair frequently enough, even if they actually wash it every day.

The grease found in hair is called sebum and is oil that is produced natural by the body. Each of the hairs on your head has a gland called the sebaceous gland immediately under the skin, this gland produces sebum. Oil in greasy hair protects each strand form split ends and dryness, and is in fact a sign of healthy hair. Sebum is made as lubrication for the skin and hair, providing a protective barrier and preventing drying. Sebum is the body's own natural moisturizer.

Hormones called androgens can cause greasy hair by stimulating sebaceous glands, causing them to become over active and begin over producing sebum leading to an excess of sebum in the hair. Androgens are male hormones, and although they are present in both men and women, they are higher in men. Androgens make two things happen: First, they enlarge sebaceous glands. Second, they cause the increase of oil production from the sebaceous glands.

As hormones have a role in sebum production, fluctuating hormone levels can be one of the causes of greasy hair. Greasy hair can most commonly be found in older women experiencing the menopause, teenagers in puberty, and women in general because of their monthly cycle or pregnancy. Stress can also be a cause of greasy hair as it can affect hormone levels. People who have fine hair can sometimes suffer form greasy hair because they have more hair follicles and more hair follicles means more sebum producing glands on the scalp.

There are several external causes of greasy hair. Washing your hair too frequently can cause more sebum to be produced as frequent washing can strip the hair of oils, to combat this sebaceous glands excrete sebum. Sebaceous glands can be stimulated through vigorous scrubbing of the hair and scalp while washing. Touching your hair can also stimulate sebaceous glands, along with vigorous hair brushing which carries oil throughout the hair. The over-use of styling products can cause hair to look greasy as the products can build-up at the roots. Everyday environmental pollutants can also cause hair to look greasy.

There are also many internal causes of greasy too. I have already mentioned fluctuating hormone levels, but one of the main culprits when it comes to internal causes of greasy hair is diet. Western diets that tend to be greasy, high in fat and sugar, processed and containing additives which can be a major cause of greasy hair as the high fat content increases oil levels in and on the skin. Hormones can be found in meat in the western, adding to the unbalanced hormone levels. A diet lacking in vitamin B can also contribute towards greasy hair.

The best way of avoiding, preventing, treating and getting rid of greasy hair is to treat it from the outside and the inside. On the outside: steer clear of brushing your hair too frequently, and too vigorously. Avoid using a moisturizing shampoo as this can leave some oil in the hair. An extra cleansing or clarifying shampoo that has a mild-ph is the best shampoo to use for greasy hair. When shampooing, massage you hair and scalp lightly and do not scrub your hair and scalp.

For a more thorough cleanse, leave the shampoo in for about 5 minutes. You can always rinse your hair and shampoo a second time. How often you need to wash your hair is down to you. Ideally you should wash your hair 1-2 times per week. To find what is right for you, begin washing daily and then reduce the frequency to find your ideal balance of oil production and washing. If you plan to use a conditioner on your hair, apply the conditioner to the mid and ends of you hair only, and be sure to use a conditioner made for greasy hair. If you are using a hairdryer for hair styling don't let the dryer get too hot, heat can cause the production of more oil.

With the inside: do all that you can to reduce and eliminate any and all stress. In your diet, consider using a vitamin B supplement. Make sure you eat plenty of whole grains, seeds, nuts, leafy green vegetables, salads and fresh fish. Reduce the amount of fatty foods that you eat, avoiding greasy, fried and fatty foods as much as possible. Reduce the number of white flour based foods in your diet, foods like pastries, pasta and bread. Lastly, avoid sugar and sugary foods like biscuits, cakes and soft drinks.

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