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

Friday, January 30, 2009

Why Choose Ductless Air Conditioning?

By Gerald Beatty

There's a new way to cool down your house in the hot weather. It's called ductless air conditioning. Generally, this type of system has both an interior and exterior unit. The compressor unit is mounted near an exterior wall of the house. Two tubes run into the house through a wall, delivering coolant to the interior units. These systems generally include multiple interior units that can be located throughout the home.

Most people will choose to go with ductless air conditioning because it can be much more energy efficient. The reason for this is simple. A traditional duct system has to take the cold, heavy air down into the basement and then force it back up through the house. A ductless system places the evaporator up high, usually just a few inches below the ceiling. This allows the cold air to move down naturally throughout the house without the need for a blower. You can save a lot of energy, and money, when gravity does the work.

With this type of air conditioning system, you can enjoy the benefits of more than one interior unit. Therefore, you have the ability to cool just specific areas of your home as needed. For instance, you can turn off the bedroom unit during the day. Yet your daytime living areas will remain cool and comfortable. This technique can shave your electric bills in half with no impact on your comfort.

Because the cold air is distributed near the top of the room, you'll find that your floor doesn't get icy like it does with central air conditioning. Your room will also cool down much more quickly. This is due to the fact that the ductless unit produces air that is often much colder than a central or window air conditioning unit.

You can also get some handy accessories for your ductless air conditioning unit. Some models act as an air purifier, while others can dehumidify the air without cooling it down. There are those that feature slats that oscillate in order to help move the air through a wider area. There are even models that can be used to provide warmth in the colder months.

However, there are some downsides to ductless air conditioning. Usually they're more expensive than other cooling methods, as much as 30 percent. In addition, they most often need to be installed by a professional. This is somewhat more complicated than central air conditioning, and much more involved than installing a window air conditioner.

Overall, you might find that this is a good alternative to other forms of air conditioning. It's reliable and convenient. And over time you're likely to recover the added expense of this type of system.

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Where in Australia Can a Person Under 21 Rent a Car?

By Amy Nutt

All over the world, there are car rental companies that require an individual to be 21 years of age or older to rent a car. There are even companies that require you to be 25 years of age or older. It simply depends on the company. But what if you are under 21 and you must travel, but you dont have your own car to do it? There are plenty of business situations, emergency situations, and personal situations in which an individual under 21 must rent a car.

If youre wondering what car rental companies will allow you to rent if you are under 21, the following can help you out:

- Gold Coast Car Hire will rent to individuals under 21. If you dont have full coverage insurance already, you can acquire insurance through them in case an accident does occur.

- Australian Rent a Car, which was just acquired by Red Spot, will also rent to individuals under 21.

- Aussie Camper Vans will allow someone under the age of 21 to rent campervans if youre interested in going on a camping trip.

These are just a few of them, but they are easily found on the Internet so that you can find information about them. And there are many others that list whether or not they will rent to people 21 years of age or younger.

If someone tells you that you cannot rent a car from any car rental in Brisbane Australia because you are under 21, that is indeed false. There are many question and answer forums on the Internet regarding this issue, but there are so many telling young people that they need to have someone 21 or over rent the car on their behalf.

The best way to find out if a car rental company will rent to you if youre under the age of 21 is if you go to their website and see for yourself. They will most likely specify whether or not they will rent to an under 21 individual or not. This can also help you to narrow down your prospects when finding the best car rental rate.

But why do car companies not want to rent to people under 21?

Much of this has to do with the fact that young people are a higher risk behind the wheel. They do not have as much experience and they are more likely to engage in risky behavior. If by some chance you find that you dont have a car rental company in your area that will allow you to rent from them, then you will have to ask someone 21 or over to rent on your behalf. If you are traveling for business, the wise thing to do is talk to your employer about renting the car under their name. When it is for business use, this is, perhaps, the ideal thing to do because the company is probably paying for it anyway.

So there are ways to get around it if you are in an area that does not have car rental companies that will rent to you if youre under 21. Just make sure you do your research and not listen to those who say, 'Not a single car rental company or truck rental Sydney Australia company will rent to you because youre under 21.' Although this fact makes finding a car rental company a little more difficult, it is not at all impossible. So yes, at 18, 19, 20 years old, you can rent a car to take care of your emergency, personal, or business situation whenever you need to.

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Tips On Remodeling Your Kid's Bedroom

By Alix Montoya

As parents we know our children will grow up someday. And their bedrooms has to keep up with all the changes that they will go through in life. The changes doesn't need to be drastic and sudden, you can introduce them slowly and gradually. We just have to make sure that the bedroom fits whatever their needs are.

An overall theme is what you need to determine first when you're making changes to your child's bedroom. If you're thinking of getting him or her themed bedsheets, they are going to outgrow them quickly. I suggest sticking with plain but bright colored sheets instead that would last a while longer.

The bedroom furniture has to match colors with everything else. Paint their dresser according to the color of the wallpaper to make it fit in. Try to upgrade the other furniture as well like the changing table into an actual study table which they can use when they no longer need diapers but needs a place to hold their books. Put in chairs to sit in and shelves to put their toys in and the changes are complete.

Use bright colors to make the room as energetic and as exciting for your child. If you have a one-year old, try to make the room a little mature but not too mature. Bright colors like bright blues and greens often keep your child's interest at its best. And make sure the bed is soft and cozy, too.

Your child's bedroom is very important. They will be spending a lot of their childhood here, and you have to make sure that it is as comfortable as it can be. They have to feel loved whenever they are inside.

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Lavish Her With Flowers!

By Joanne Michaels

With Valentine's Day within sight, it's time to consider sending that grand expression of love to that outstanding person in your life. Whether you're a male or female, let's take a look at some ideas about Valentines flowers.

Here's an interesting question: Do women send Valentines flowers? Yes they do! Women send masculine gifts like nuts and munchy things. Instead of sending a full bouquet of flowers, as a man normally sends, they might include a single rose in a little basket with nuts and chocolates and fudges. That has become highly popular, so most florists have spanned out in that direction.

What would you consider to be the most in-demand Valentines flower? The red rose is by far the most favored, because it's the symbol of love. Some people feel that if you wish to communicate deep love to your Valentine, a red rose is the only flower to send.

Instead of red, choose pink if you want to convey the feeling of desire. It communicates a soft, tender-hearted feeling, and is probably more fitting for someone that is a little more personal than just a casual friend. A pink rose will warm her heart and awaken that tender desire within her. If you want to send something to a casual friend, a yellow rose relates friendship. It's a warm, sweet gesture that sends a less passionate message than red.

What other kind of flowers are typically sent from one Valentine to another on Valentine's Day? Lilies are exceptionally appreciated, because they are very scented and smell fantastic. Also very successful are mixed vases. A florist can make up a magnificent arrangement with daisies, tulips, chrysanthemums, orchids, and other flowers. Just as long as it looks delightful and communicates a romantic, loving sensation.

Even another idea would be to send a live plant instead of cut flowers. There are several to choose from, including little mini rose plants. What a beautiful way to express your love to your Valentine by sending a present that lasts!

How much does it cost to have Valentines flowers delivered? You can reckon around $15 as a starting cost, while the average price settles in around $40, which will secure a lovely half dozen roses or a mixed vase. Delivery charges will be added on top of that. If money is a question, consider a cash and carry purchase. You can buy a dozen roses for roughly $20 to $30, then add all types of fillers. There are various really awesome greens that you can use to make your arrangement look superb. Arrange them in a pretty vase, and it will look dazzling. It's not going to be arranged like a professional does, but it will look gorgeous. It's a perfect way to go if you're on a tight budget.

However, if cost is not an issue, and you don't mind spending considerably more, you can pay up to $150 or more.

You may be tempted to save a little money by purchasing your Valentines flowers at a local discount store, but be forewarned. A live flower purchased at a local discount store will understandably cost less, but the quality of the flower will not be equal to one from a florist. The flower will not be as healthy, and as a result, will not last as long. It pays to spend the extra for good quality.

Romance, flowers, joy and happiness all go hand in hand on Valentine's Day. This year, express your love to that important Valentine in your life by sending flowers! Surprise her (or him) with a dazzling gift of flowers!

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As The Economy Declines, Keep Buying Gold Jewelry

By Heather Boydins

So what shall it be gaudy or gorgeous? Jewelry that is " the most decorative additions to the human body, aside from tattoos, which we humans love to indulge in. If you take a good look at the trends lately you'd think gaudy, but at the price you're paying for some of this "art", best call it gorgeous in defense of wearing it.

One thing is for sure, if you want lasting value in your jewelry collection, the odds still are spot on for buying gold. Yes, even in these tough economic times the value and attraction of gold jewelry has kept its panache and appeal.

Surveys have recently shown that those "must get" items we so covet rank gold as being close to the number one spot, not other expensive jewelry as you may expect. Amazingly the next ranked "must get" item was a fully loaded new Smartphone cell phone.

It's a sure thing then that gold is a keeper not only because of the way it looks on people " elegant, tasteful, quiet and striking " but because of its investment value. All around gold wins the Miss Versatility crown for its ability to appeal as a must have wearable and its obvious financial value. You have to know that after all these years gold will be with us ad infinitum.

The other option for your jewelry collection is sterling silver, which appeals to many for its polished beauty, lower prices and its ability to blend beautifully with other precious stones. Fashion trends these days are showing earth tones with glints of sterling silver and a range of natural colors to accent it.

If you love knowing in advance of the season what everyone else will be wearing when it comes to jewelry, then make a bee line to the nearest magazine stand and get a hold of several high end fashion magazines with photo spreads of the latest bling.

If you happen to buy from catalogs, then bravo, you have advance notice of what is going to be the "in thing" for the next season. So when your new book arrives, pour over it and pay attention to what is coming. If you get it first, you're ahead of the crowd and a trendsetter.

If youre dying to know what the latest trends in hot jewelry will be for the next season, the next time you are out shopping, look in the window and the store displays. Chances are you will be buying what you see within minutes after seeing it. Stores that cater to the fashionable and trendy crowd will have all the latest looks and tips on how to mix and match jewelry.

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Why are there differnt rules for Motorcycle Clubs

By LJ James

Motorcycle Clubs that have lots of Chapters have problems where Government agencies try to say they are Criminal organizations. Now if you are part of something say a Business Association and you need a dentist and you have a dentist as part of your Association most likely you are going to work with him.

Now lets say your part of an Association with 20 chapters and 1 guy from your group deals drugs. Then he meets another guy from a different chapter of your Association who deals drugs too. He then meets another guy from another chapter of your group who deals drugs and then a few more and soon you have 10 guys from 10 different chapters of your group dealing drugs together across the country. Now again this could be any type of group.

Now lets say those ten guys get caught dealing the drugs. When in came time to arrest them would all the Members of the Association all across the Country get arrested ? Let me be very clear here. My question to you is, Is the whole Association guilty of a crime or is it just the ten who who committed the crimes?

Well the answer is a little crazy, If it is a church group well then it is only the ten people dealing the drugs that are Guilty. If it is members of a Police force, The Answer could be no one is Guilty! But now if it is a Motorcycle Club then the answer always seems to be everyone is Guilty!

Why does there seem to be different sets of rules that depend on who you are or who you are Associated with? We all know that in reality only the ten guys who committed the crimes are guilty. Just like any other group in the world a Motorcycle Club can have members who Commit Crimes. Why should there be harsher sets of rules and penalties because the Members of a Club happen to enjoy riding Motorcycles?

I am Your BroLJ James AmericanBikerX.com Listen to LJs Radio Show at BikerLowdown.com

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Exterior Design Projects Include Necessary Maintenance

By Chad Dethelo

When considering exterior improvements, there are many basic areas that deserve a great deal of attention. There are the major maintenance and repair jobs that need to be done regularly; then there are the more aesthetic, decorative projects that are often more fun and creative.

Exterior projects that require timely maintenance include windowsill, gutter and downspout cleaning. While you are cleaning your windowsills, it is very important to inspect the seals for any leaks. If air is able to either come in or out of your house you are wasting valuable and expensive energy, both in the summer and winter. Water leaking into the house is will damage both your interior and exterior.

Water sitting or draining poorly off of your windowsills can cause immeasurable damage for the windows, not to mention the entire house. If there is water leaking behind the window seal and behind the fascia of the house, you can eventually have very large problems with how structurally sound your house is. Keeping the paint and caulk around your house's windows fresh will keep many of these problems at bay.

Cleaning the roofs, gutters, hardware and downspouts of a house are another very important part of exterior home maintenance. There are all kinds of available systems to keep the gutters covered, cleaned and free from the larger debris. Downspouts must also be maintained to ensure the rain that falls onto your house runs away from the property. Standing water can be very hazardous to the health of a home's foundation.

Landscaping is also a very important component to the structural condition as well as the beauty of your home. Again, many yards may need retaining walls and drains in certain places in their yards to wash the water away and keep the home firmly on its foundation. Healthy grass and tree root systems are beneficial to the integrity of the grounds surrounding the home as well. If you have trees that need pruning so they do not fall over or shed branches on to, or worse, in to your home, make sure you take care of this as quickly as possible.

There are many more aspects to landscaping, with many of components adding to what is typically referred to as curb appeal, or what looks good to passers by from the curb. These projects can be more fun and are less necessary, unless you let it go so far the neighbors begin to complain. Landscape architecture has sprung up as a very big business, and many companies specialize in yard maintenance. There are several options, from bushes and flowers, to extensive walkways and fountains. The main focus should be the outdoor elements that make you want to be outside, enjoying your yard.

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Thinking About Polishing Your Concrete?

By Alix Montoya

If you're thinking of jumping in on the old bandwagon of trends and you're planning of getting polished concrete for your flooring, then you might want to consider some of the things that could help you decide whether this groundbreaking technique for an old material really is for you.

Polished concrete doesn't need plenty of maintenance. That's right, polished concrete is so durable that you only need to do a little bit of sweeping here and a little bit of mopping there and it's already going to shine as good as when it was still new.

Polished concrete is not expensive. While the price range for installing the concrete slabs on your house might be in the middle of cheap carpets and vinyl types and less cheap marbles or slates, it more than makes up for it with its innate durability and its long lasting beauty.

Polished concrete is flexible. Figuratively speaking of course, because hardened concrete is anything but flexible. What do I mean? Is it too loud or is it too hard on the feet. The truth is it is hard on the foot and it does make this echo effect when sound is produced but there are many ways to get around that like putting rugs to cushion your steps, and putting up curtains to block and absorb sound.

Polished concrete is not too slippery. Actually there are many available floor conditioners which increase the friction between the floor and your feet which makes concrete, even polished ones, a lot safer. Although, if kept dry, concrete is not at all slippery to begin with.

So I hope these little things help you in choosing polished concrete for your floor. Although, with all the practical advantages of the material, it would be surprising if you haven't already done so.

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