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 17, 2008

Dry Hair: How to care for and treat Dry Hair

By Jennifer Summers

The look of your hair is the one attribute of the body over which you can have direct control. You can alter the length, shape, colour and style of your hair according to the age you wish to appear, and the monetary and social standing you want to assert. The style, length and condition of hair all play a part in how we perceive the people we meet. If you are to get the greatest possible results from your hair care practice, you need to opt for the right hair shampoo and conditioner for your hair type. We can identify hair that is in first-class condition. It is easy to manage and it shines, - it just looks great.

Dry hair is hair that doesn't have enough moisture. This is normally because the cuticle has become heavily weathered and porous, so that the cortex cannot hold on to water. It appears more in long hair than in short, purely because the hair has been growing for longer and as a result has worn more. It is more widespread in women than in men, since women are more likely to sport their hair long. The drying out may come to have an effect on more of the hair if it is given constant chemical treatments, for the most part perming, and especially perming connected with bleaching/colouring. Your hair is dry if: * it looks lacklustre * it feels dry or coarse * it snarls easily * it is tricky to comb or brush * it has been treated chemically (permed, bleached or colored) * it is liable to split ends * it is dry and frizzed. If your hair meets any of these conditions, you should opt for a hair shampoo and conditioner that are specifically for dry hair.

Fight the harm of colouring, chemical treatments, environmental pollution and heat-styling by deep-conditioning your hair regularly. This will aid you in topping up lost moisture and preserving a shiny and strong appearance to your hair. Cleanse your hair on a regular basis, using good-quality products. Product: Moisturizing Shampoos and Conditioners - Excellent for very dry hair. Restores moisture missing due to blow-drying.

And essentially - do not forget to condition it well. Leave-in Conditioners and Re-constructive detanglers are the correct products to use. A light leave-in conditioner is great for creating shine and body to straight hair and for taming. Have the ends cut regularly by a skilled stylist, so as to prevent weathering effects such as split ends.

In a standard, perfect hair shaft, insufficient water can get either into or out of the cortex. This is for the reason that the cuticle covering the cortex is undamaged. But if hair is processed too often the cuticle scales may never go back to their original tightness and the defence they once offered is gone. Over-porous hair is parched, and is prone to developing split ends. The broken cuticle is delicate, and the damage gets worse as time passes. Dry hair feels parched. It doesn't shine and is hard to style. It does responds to intensive conditioning. Cautious brushing, drying and combing after cleansing is vital.

If the bottle says: Moisturizing or Replenishing. This means: It's formulated to be gentle to dry, damaged hair. These shampoos are heavier on the moisturizing ingredients, sometimes leaving a very thin film of conditioners on the hair to help keep it silky and smooth. Works best for: Dry, frizzy, damaged hair.

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Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium

By James Hayden Rayburn

It's aptly called a 'Personal Planetarium', because of its vast database of more than 50,000 space objects, stars and planets. SkyScout is so light and durable that it can be easily carried around for outdoor excursions which will give you an amazing viewing experience of the night sky. It was an 'Editor's Choice' for the Bagpacker magazine due to its innovative design, performance and materials. SkyScout has gone through a suite of trial testing in various climatic conditions and survived them all. That's why SkyScout is an n apposite tool for outdoor activities.

Celestron is handheld, portable and a non-magnifying viewing device which can identify and locate more than 50,000 celestial objects including all that is visible through naked eye. It has a GPS technology that automatically locates your position on the Earth and the time and date of observation. It is run by 2 AA flashlight batteries which could run up to 6 hours of continual operation. You don't have to align SkyScout to the sky or hold it in a particular level because its 3-axis sensor measures the Earth's Gravitational and magnetic fields to determine its true orientation to the Earth.

Celestron SkyScout is made for all ages. You don't need to be a 'Rocket Scientist' in operating SkyScout. You just have to point to the object you want to view and SkyScout's illuminated 5-lined LED scrolling display gives you a scrolling commentary and history about that object. You will also get earplugs included so you can listen to the commentaries without taking your eyes off the object

The SkyScout's enormous database also includes audio lessons on history and origin of astronomy, text biographies on some of the greatest astronomers, a dictionary of celestial terms, scientific details of over 50,000 space objects and text descriptions of some of the man made space objects like satellites, telescopes, space shuttles etc. and text images of some of the famous comets.

The SkyScout's operating system and database can be updated by downloading the latest information about orbits of space shuttles or the locations of passing comets, from the Celestron website. It can be done with the help of the built-in USB port and supply cable which can be connected to your PC.

For $199.99, SkyScout is a fun and entertaining device for all ages, especially for youngsters. They can learn at their own pace making self learning much simpler. And for stargazers like me, it's just the tool to enjoy the splendors of the skies!

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How To Avoid Battery Sulfation

By Allen Strong

If you have ever encountered a problem in your car when the battery just seemed to be unable to jump start your car? This happens most commonly in the winter and in the morning. After several trials, you finally get the car to start and then the next morning it behaves like it again. If your car battery was brand new or wasn't used for a long time, this might seem weird. Actually, you have just experienced battery sulfation.

Inside a battery, voltage and capacitance is generated between metallic plates and a liquid solution where the plates are suspended. In most common lead acid batteries, the lead reacts with the sulfuric acid found in the electrolyte solution and forms lead sulfate. This reaction is called sulfation.

If your battery has remained unused or was kept in storage for a long time, there are very large chances that sulfation will occur. It's very easy to detect if our battery is showing signs of this.

Usually it's fairly easy to tell if your battery has gone sulfated on you. First it struggles to start your car, showing no voltage and capacitance at all, and generating hardly any current. This happens every morning.

The product of the chemical reaction between the lead in the plates and the sulfuric acid, lead sulfate, actually has enveloped the plates in a crusty precipitate. This greatly reduces the plate's area in contact with the electrolyte solution subsequently lowering capacitance and voltage. In short, the plates become rusted with a different kind of rust, and this rust is getting in the way for your battery to function properly.

Fortunately for you, there are available devices in the market called battery desulfators which can rectify this problem easily. They simply remove the rust off of the plates and you'll find your batteries performing like new. Ask your mechanic about it.

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Healthy and Flavorful - Getting More Cherries in Your Diet

By KC Kudra

We all have cherished memories of eating perfectly ripe cherries on a summer's day as children. There is no reason you cannot add to those memories, however - cherries are the ideal treat for people of all ages. Cherries are a good source of antioxidants and contain a lot of important vitamins and minerals - they contain vitamin C, iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, and beta-carotene. With all of these health benefits and such a great taste, it is no surprise that they are so popular.

It is easier than you might think to get cherries into your diet; they are great to eat just the way they are, but you can use cherries in many different dishes. Try some dried cherries in your oatmeal - they are a delicious and healthy change of pace from raisins. Dried cherries also work well in muffins and other baked goods.

Less sweet than syrup or sugar, dried cherries are a great way to dress up your oatmeal naturally. They are also a great addition to trail mix, where they add welcome color and flavor, not to mention vitamins and minerals.

You can also use cherries in savory dishes like roast beef! Try this recipe to bring out some of the flavor of your roast beef. The juice from the cherries helps to keep the meat moist and juicy and the cherries add a whole new dimension of flavor to the dish. Try making a sauce using the juice from one can of sweet dark cherries, horseradish, sauted shallots, tomato paste and a splash of port. You should simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes.

Simmer until the sauce is slightly thick and then strain it and cover it. The cherries can be lightly seared and then added with the sauce over roast beef tenderloin. You can serve this lightly warm, or for a more foreign and exotic touch, you can flamb the cherries.

When you are interested in adding cherries where you might not expect it, you can start with a cherry chili. Take 3/4ths a cup of fresh, chopped cherries, either tart or sweet, depending on your taste and add them when you add the beans. You will find that the cherries will add in texture as well as taste. This is a great way to introduce chili to kids or even to friends who have a taste for the new and interesting.

Does any one need an excuse to add some fresh cherries to your favorite jello recipe? Among the most popular verities of jello, cherry jello can be mixed with white cake to make an interesting new flavored jello cake. Alternatively, even add them on top with a layer of strawberry or cherry jello to make an interesting top layer.

You can make an exciting layer for a jell-o cake or even a dessert in its own right by mixing cherry jell-o and fresh chopped cherries, then chill and fold in whipped cream. This can be whipped into a sort of icing for your jell-o cake if you can resist eating it right out of the mixing bowl! Another great dessert idea is to add some dark cherries to a bowl of vanilla ice cream or plain or vanilla yogurt delicious!

Cherries are a great treat; so make sure that you indulge! There are many different ways to include them into your meal, so take some time to make sure that you do!

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Finding Discount Shoes And Deals Online

By John Florman

Finding your pair of shoes online can be fun and rewarding. You can find the complete range of styles for a particular brand that would not be available at most shoe stores. Often you find discounts that just are not available at traditional brick and mortar stores. Plus you save on sales tax which is more than a few pennies that are pinched.

There will usually always be designer shoes available at discount prices. It's just a matter of looking around for a good bargain in the size you are looking for. You can expect a 10-40% discount, when buying designer shoes online.

Many shoe styles are making a big comeback. In particular, the open-toe woman's styles are gaining fashion momentum and style revival. Even pairing textured stockings to the open-toe style seems to be gaining revival popularity.

The traditional styles always seems to have staying power. Traditional moderate-width straps should always be popular. Designer shoe heights seem to run the fashion gamut and it is hard to say how long the "heavy" look or the gladiator styles will remain mainstream.

Traditional shoes are the conservative style choice of most people. Styles of boots vary from fashionable dyed leathers, such as the immensely popular Ugg brand, to more commonplace choices. Men seem to stick with mainstream choices and with natural hues, colors and standard footwear designs.

Special seasonal discount shoes online sales need to be earmarked as big extras when it comes to discounts. The big holidays, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Presidents Day, just to name a few, often offer across the board discount days that includes shoe discounts for any purchased product. Often you'll get an extra 15 to 20 percent off your purchase price.

Most stores offer free shipping and free return shipping for any reason you are not satisfied or need a different size. Usually these policies only apply only to US addresses.

Many online shoe stores also carry an extensive lines of handbags. And, it is not unusual to find jewelry as well as designer clothing also offered to accompany your purchase. Note that these selections can be applied to the total holiday or seasonal discount policies if you include them in your purchase.

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Show Stopping Mantel Clocks & Wrought Iron Wall Clocks

By Susan West

Wrought iron clocks add a unique style to your home while making a strong statement anytime you redecorate your home or office. Depending on the type of clock you choose, these wrought iron clocks come in many styles and designs providing a classic, antique or a rustic appearance while being stunningly functional. The most common are wrought iron wall clocks and wrought iron mantel clocks. The most fashionable models of wrought iron mantel clocks are those, which feature silhouettes of animals, plants, landscapes and western motifs.

Wrought iron wall clocks and wrought iron mantel clocks are available in many different sizes to fit whatever space you need to fill. You can either choose a small clock, to add an accent, or a larger one, to provide the decorative focus of a room. A wrought iron clock on the wall or mantel can easily change and contribute to the ambiance of your room. To accent rustic wood, consider one of the models that offers a hand made appearance. To play up the classic features of antiques, use a Victorian or Art Noveau style clock that will complement them.

Wrought iron clocks come in different forms. You can choose a hanging wall clock, however if you want a wrought iron clock for a corner of your room, you may choose a floor mode. When you want to purchase a wrought iron clock, and do not have the wall or floor space for it, you may choose a wrought iron mantel clock. These functional clocks provide not only accurate time; they also provide an ambiance to your room that no other accent can provide. Not only is wrought iron strong and durable, it is a fun and decorative way to accent any room in your home.

Wrought iron wall clocks are more likely to feature floral motifs and traditional scroll work. This lovely, antique motif is a great way of filling space and accenting a blank, boring wall. Be sure to measure the space you wish to fill before buying a clock, so you'll be able to get an idea of how it will look in your room.

You will find that with such a large selection of wrought iron clocks for the wall or mantel are perfectly suitable for any room of the home or office. Whether it is the waiting room, a living room, bedroom, kitchen or dining room, a wrought iron clock adds a strong statement while decorating. For instance, a small decorative wrought iron mantel clock is perfect for a bookshelf or deck, while adding your own personal flavor to your cubicle or office.

Since wrought iron is so solid and heavy, you won't have to worry about it being easily knocked over and damaging the clock face or mechanism. The durability of wrought iron clocks leads to them lasting a long time, and becoming a traditional part of your decorating scheme.

To go with the old-fashioned look of wrought iron, nearly all the clock faces used are traditional style, rather than digital, and tend to have hands, surrounded in either gold colored metal or black. It may seem like a wrought iron wall clock or mantel clock is outside the range of your budget. However, there are lots of models available, costing little more than a good conventional clock.

Perhaps you enjoy the look and texture of wrought iron wall and mantel clocks but are not sure you can afford one. Keep in mind that there is a multitude of wrought iron wall and mantel clocks available at wallet friendly prices, some costing just a bit more than that of a dependable conventional clock. When redecorating, take the time to look through the wide range of wrought iron clocks available as they can add just the right ambiance to any home or office. Edited by Glinda Zuladra

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1 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring

By Alice Sy

Natural diamonds are dear. But its the most appropriate gift the beau can give to his beloved fianc. Time and again, it has always been a universal part of the matrimonial custom to give a diamond ring during a marriage proposal. It is a perfect gift for the suitor to express his intentions of tying the knot and a definite symbol of eternity - - of enduring love and affection.

Expressing love through diamond engagement ring though can sometimes be an expensive thing to do so that is where your creativity comes in. You dont need to be too grand with carats when it comes to choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring and then spend much money for it to please a woman.

Settle for the 1 carat diamond engagement ring and you can have a lot of choices of styles to find that perfect ring suited for your loved one.

1 carat diamond engagement rings are available in different designs and for sure, one of them would make a perfect fit for your fianc and will surely be appreciated. The design will vary on the shape of the diamond. You may also take a look at the cut and how clear it is.

Also, do not base your buying of the engagement ring on the size of the diamond alone. 1 carat diamond engagement ring is enough already to cover the beauty, elegance and expensive characteristics of an engagement ring that every woman dreams of having.

But then, if you are really after the size, then strategically choose the one that would appear big, like the marquise or the pear type of engagement ring. You may also consider the accents around the diamond and the ones on the band. Also, white gold or the platinum engagement ring will also support and accentuate the beauty and the shine of the 1 carat diamond engagement ring.

The gist of choosing a 1 carat diamond engagement ring is to be practical and at the same time, find a design that will emphasize the beauty of the ring. After all, simplicity is always the key to elegance and it should not be expensive.

Now just think of how you can give that 1 carat diamond engagement ring you have finally chosen for your fianc and propose. Now that should be romantic and grand!

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Everything You Need To Care For Your Landscape

By Keith Markensen

For the person who loves a do-it-yourself projects like landscaping, having the right tools are important. If you want to save money on the expenses of having a manicured lawn, it is always better to make sure you have all the tools you need to create a breathtaking landscape. Once you understand the basic tools you need for the job, you can make sure you have everything you need to keep your lawn in good shape, make it delightful and make your space unique.

Some of the basic tools you need are; shovels, rakes, trowels, and a hand cultivator. These are just a few of the tools needed when it comes to lawn care and landscaping. Every homeowner should have at least these basic tools. They will allow you to make the most of every type of landscape. You need a shovel to turn the dirt and move sod, dig holes for trees and landscaping. Rakes are necessary to smooth out flower beds and prepare the soil for sod, without having to pack the dirt. Trowels and hand cultivators allow you to do minute work that requires attention to detail. All of these tools are needed to make sure your can care for your landscape and that it is properly functional.

Pruning sheers are tools that are used to make improvements to the appearance of wood type plants and trees. Sheers keep plants from growing unwanted into other areas, and also promote good plant health overall. Pruning sheers help you maintain a neat appearance and if you have topiary, they are valuable to maintaining the shape. You can also use hand pruners, these tools help with the smaller branches and are quite easy to use. There are loppers for getting larger branches that may be to thick for pruners. Pruning saws help you with the tougher branches. Hedge clippers or shears provide you with a way to trim more conscientiously, than when using an electric or gas-powered trimmer. There are several models available and they make hedge maintenance much faster and easier.

Lawnmowers are one of the most common types of landscaping tools on the market today. Lawnmowers keep the grass trimmed neatly and keep the lawn healthy. Weed whackers, which are related to lawnmowers are essential for keeping up edges that cannot be reached with a lawnmower. Some special machinery is available to eliminate thicker brush and is ideal to have on hand, even if you only rent the machines once a year.

Other tools you may want to use are specialty tools which may be needed depending upon the type of landscape you have. If you have water fixtures, it is important that you have the rights pumps and filters available. You also need little skimmers to clean the water of bugs and debris. You may want to install automatic sprinklers to water the lawn and your plants, a garden hose is ideal for other watering needs. You also need a hammer, nails, levels, drills for building a deck or trellis, or any other type of landscaping feature you want to build. You may also want to build containers or raised flower beds as well, the choice is up to you.

A wheelbarrow is another great addition that you will use indefinitely for various landscaping needs. They are useful when hauling dirt or debris, as well as bringing implements from one area to another. You also make it possible to haul a load that you may not be able to otherwise. A wheelbarrow is a much needed item for the avid landscaper.

When you have all the tools you need, then you will see the rewards of all your hard work when you see your beautiful landscape. Having just the basic and most common tools, will save you money and time and can be used over and over again. These tools take up relatively little space to store and keep be kept neatly arranged in a garage or shed. They should be easily accessible and not difficult to find. Keep them in a waterproof area to guard against the elements and rusting. Keep your electrical implements such your lawn mowers, grass cutters, and bose outdoor speakers well oiled and maintained for years of use. Taking care of your tools is a small investment and will allow you to take proper care of your landscape.

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If You Are Unable To Be There But Want To Show You Love Them Then Send -