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

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Jewelry Shopping 101: Emergency Guide for Guys

By Art Barron

For a lot of guys, jewelry shopping ranks a bit lower on the torture scale than, say, the medieval rack. Questions concerning preference, quality and quantity are but some of the mind-busters that plague the minds of guys during these times. And no matter whom you ask, there seems to be no straight answer!

Relax. It may surprise you to know that this is a problem that plagues so many guys out there.

Your pre-Valentine jewelry excursion need not be a disaster. Here are some signposts to point you in the right direction:

Do some recon first; figure out what she likes.

Just because it's expensive, and within the latest fashion trend, doesn't mean she will wear it. Some women like small and subtle accessories; other go for the loud, huge and flamboyant. Some women like things formal and classy; others a bit experimental and playful. And then there are preferences for particular materials. There are gold lovers, silver lovers and copper lovers. There are women with long-standing love affairs with certain stones.

There are so many ways to find out what she likes. Don't call it snooping, call it investigative searching. Look through her jewelry box, drop a few hints, or if you're really desperate, call up her friends. Maybe you can take her "window-shopping" for jewelry and see which ones bring a similar shine to her eyes.

Design should be the first thing on your mind

Hearts are common this time of the year and they are always a good choice. They fit the occasion and they can be worn across seasons. A heart also symbolizes the feeling that goes with the gift. By choosing heart-shaped jewelry, you are sending your message of affection loud and clear.

However, you are not obliged to choose it as a design. All the more if your girl is the one who actually doesn't like, or worse, sneers at the idea of something so "clich and cheesy." You can entertain the idea, but don't limit yourself to it.

You can always choose some other design to make your jewelry unique and special. If your girl is the practical type, then small, sturdy silver earrings can work out fine. If she's flashy, dangling earrings are the ones for you. You can also opt to make jewelry that is specific for the two of you, for example, if you're both into sports, a charm full of different kinds of sports equipment or something along those lines.

Look around

It's not a must to buy jewelry on the first store that you enter. By checking out other stores, you have better chances to discover great items that suit her tastes and also your wallet. It's wise to start shopping early as it gives you the freedom to choose.

Be limitless and don't just settle for shops in the malls. Go and search for antique shops, shop online, or look for family-owned establishments that create custom-made jewelry settings and art forms. While being on a budget, you can easily check out pawnshops as well. Try checking for family heirlooms to be resized or remodeled, as well.

Just remember that, wherever you buy your jewelry, you make sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity. At least then, you'll know you'll be spending your hard-earned cash on something worthwhile!

If all else fails, let it to those who know:

Now if jewelry shopping really has you stumped, here's an idea: why don't you just let her choose? Depending on how you package it, making them pick what they like can still be really romantic.

Now if you're worried that your girl might choose something more than what you've bargained for, you can befriend the salesperson in advance. You can tell him your price range and arrange a selection for your girl to view in private. It's really romantic for you to choose it together.

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