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, June 25, 2009

Rocket Chinese - Lin Ping Rocket Chinese Review

By Chris Jensen

There are over one billion people that speak some form of Chinese on this planet. That makes Chinese the most popular language in the world. Since it's so popular, Lin Ping has developed a program specifically designed to help you learn Chinese at your own pace and in your own way. Her program, Rocket Chinese, has a lot of people talking, but this is what you can really expect from it.

Rocket Chinese is centered on five main categories. Those five categories are interactive audio lessons, illustrated grammar lessons, a software word building game, an audio learning game, and also a live support area that you can talk to Chinese teachers.

The biggest advantage of the Rocket Chinese method is the access to the live support. The people that are your resources are Chinese teachers and people that are native Chinese speakers. They really have a firm command of the Chinese language and can really help you understand the grammar and also the intonations that are often difficult to master. So anytime you have any questions, you are free to ask the support group.

Another big plus to this program is that all the lessons and software are entirely electronic, so you can download the program as soon as you pay and start your learning. There is no need to wait four to six weeks for a software package to arrive in the mail. They also offer a full money back guarantee if you are not pleased with the item.

As with everything, there is also a draw back. The only draw back is that this program covers a lot of material. The interactive audio lessons are covered in thirty one sessions, as well as the illustrated grammar lessons. Any time you learn any new language, you will need to be able to make a time and money commitment to this.

After all is said and done, the Rocket Chinese course has very good elements to it and is highly recommended.

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The Great Thirst Of Mediterranean Food Seasoning

By Ferdinand Emy

As in any type of cooking in Mediterranean cuisine people use seasoning, Mediterranean seasoning really. Evidently, the meal of the areas surrounding the Mediterranean sea is the Mediterranean cuisine. The fact is that the Mediterranean cuisine contains foods from varied cultures. These nation-states have influenced each other in time and the process of cooking developed into sharing common principles. Mediterranean cuisine is characterised by flexibility, a wide range of ingredients and numerous regional variations. The area inclined to favor goats and sheep rearing.

Fish dishes are also very common, although today much of the fish is imported since the fisheries of the Mediterranean Sea are no longer what they used to be. In many of the standard Mediterranean dish recipes, seafood is still prevalent. It is quite evident that certain types of meats and fruit or vegetables, as it is the case with Mediterranean cuisine, ask for specific/typical seasoning, in this case, Mediterranean seasoning. Pita bread, barbecue or grilled meats, falafel and hummus are among the Mediterranean foods which usually ask a special seasonings which are found in the area around Mediterranean seasoning evidently.

Speaking of Mediterranean seasoning you must know that olive oil, though not necessarily a condiment, is made in the Mediterranean countries " Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Italy and Spain, as well as others. Garlic is a representation of a vital ingredient in the Mediterranean seasoning, which is utilized a lot throughout in the Mediterranean cuisine. Adding to the distinctive taste of food are garlic and olive oil which are used in the Mediterranean seasoning and cuisine in general. Aside from this, it is commonly believed that the ingredients in this type of cooking as well as in the Mediterranean seasoning, and of course the olive oil, are a key contributor to the good health and longevity enjoyed by the Mediterranean people.

In case you are interested in making Mediterranean dishes you will certainly need Mediterranean seasoning for them, or you will not get true Mediterranean food. You may easily buy different commodities which are labeled Mediterranean seasoning from stores around the country, nonetheless, my recommendation is for you to try to make your own Mediterranean seasoning because it is not challenging at all.

You only need the right ingredients and a true Mediterranean seasoning recipe in order to achieve a good Mediterranean seasoning. I call this combo Mediterranean seasoning. How much you utilise does not matter, all you require to do is to mix the ingredients in the following proportions in a bowl, whisk, and then pour into a shaker. Place it in a container and then put in the refrigerator, there it is when you require to utilize it for a cursory dusting on a grilled meat, or for a marinade:one part cinammon, 1 part coriander, 1 part cumin, 1 part dried mint, and then 1 part Italian seasoning or oregano; Besides, put one part onion powder and one part garlic powder.

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What Are The Best Home Burglar Alarms?

By Leonard Rigsby

Home burglar alarms increase your home's value and give you and your family piece of mind. With so many different types of home burglar alarms it is often hard to decide which product gives you the best protection. I will discuss what to look for and stay away from. I will also talk about why home security signs increases protection.

First we will begin by the two types of home burglar alarms. They are open and closed circuit. Open circuit system is triggered when the circuit is broken allowing electricity to flow. The closed circuit has continues flow of electricity and is triggered when the circuit is broken stopping electricity from moving.

They are two types of home burglar alarms they are open and closed circuit. On an open circuit system an alarm is set off when the circuit is broken allowing electricity current to run. With a closed circuit an alarm is set off when the circuit is broken which stops electricity from moving.

Home burglar alarms can have lights, sirens or automatic dialing system. Lights and sirens protect you immediately by scaring away the intruder. This type is highly recommended. The automatic dialer will either call the police or monitoring company for you. When a person answers the dialer will then play your recorded address. There are places that carry alarms equipped with noise and automatic dialer.

Sometimes people add motion detectors with their home burglar alarms. Motion detectors send a beam either radio energy, sound waves or infrared energy to a monitor. When that energy field is broken an alarm is activated. Passive infrared motion detectors use infrared energy that is released though body heat. When the device senses a rapid increase in infrared energy the alarm will go off.

Passive infrared motion detectors use human body heat to monitor movement. When this system senses a dramatic increase in infrared energy an alarm is triggered.

Security signs are another type of home protection. Burglars will often choose homes that are easier to rob. By placing signs on your exterior doors, garage doors, flower beds and driveway curb, burglars are often scares away.

Home security signs are an economical way to protect your home, if they are placed where they can be seen. If you include this with a home burglar alarm safety increases. A good alarm should have battery back up and detect smoke. Motion detectors use beams to monitor movement, added to the others your family will be safe, and secure.

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Why Own A Motor Scooter?

By Stephen Michael Mihajlov

A great alternative to driving a car or riding a bike is the motor scooter. Not only do they combat the rise in fuel prices, scooters are very easy to operate. Gas scooters come in a variety of sizes and styles, you would be sure to find the perfect scooter for your needs. Here are a few of the many benefits of owning a moped scooter.

One benefit is that moped scooters are very easy to use. They tend to be quite similar to motorcycles; however, unlike a motorcycle the engine of the moped scooter is located below the seat and above the rear axle. The scooter is also significantly lighter than a motorcycle and the step through frame creates a feature where riders can rest their feet on a platform or footrest instead of pedals. Unlike the motorcycle, there are no shifting gears, making it easy even for kids to operate.

Scooters are very popular around the world because they are so economical. This benefits many today due to our challenging economic times. The cost of owning a motor scooter depends on many factors. Size, style, quality provides the price differences. You can find quality beginning models around $1000.

Gas savings though out the year is another benefit of owning a motor scooter. It can be very difficult to find a car which averages over 30 mpg, while most scooters can get over 80 mpg. The annual gas savings alone can provide the extra money needed for those unexpected bills.

Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved moped scooters to use on roads. This is a nice benefit since now motor scooters can be driven on the street. With the Dot and EPA approval, mopeds are street legal and meet their strict standards in all 50 states. However, since many scooters can not travel fast, it is a good idea to stay off the interstate or highway.

Saving time and money, and enjoying your ride around town are just a sample of the benefits of owning motor scooters Become the envy of your friends and check out the new craze in traveling, scootering.

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Buying Repossessed Cars - A Wise Choice In Times Like This

By Davion Wong

Buying repossessed cars is a dream come true for those who are looking for a great way to save money during these difficult times.

Considering the circumstances --- the recession and all that, buying a brand new car would seem rather a bit impractical. If you don't want to break the bank or anything of the sort, you can always choose the better option, that means, to buy cars that have been repossessed.

It goes without saying that repossessed cars are second-hand cars. They have been repossessed by the federal government and by financial institutions because their owners have failed to meet their obligations, i.e. tax dues, may be, loan repayments and so on.

You would think that repossessed cars are no longer road worthy. When looking to buy repossessed cars, you will discover that these cars are actually in good condition. Many of them are almost brand-new, having been on the road not long enough.

It may also surprise you to know that a great number of these cars are luxury cars! If you've always wanted a luxury car for yourself; now's your chance to get one at an affordable price. You see, the federal government and financial institutions would rather offer these cars at very low prices than to stock them up in their garage.

If you have decided on looking for repossessed cars to buy, you may have to attend car auctions conducted in your area. Ask around for a schedule of these events and take advantage of them. Take note of the schedule of pre-auction events and take time to attend one. Here you can have your chance of having a closer look at the car you wish to bid on; you may even get to test drive it, too! It may thus work to your advantage to bring a mechanic along with you. A mechanic has a good eye at spotting things you normally would miss. So he is the best person to tell you if the car is indeed worth the offered bid price.

Do keep in mind that although you can save a lot of money when going to car auctions, the bid price may go up. Actually, this is very common, considering the number of people attending these events. The bid price going up is almost always expected with so many bidders outbidding one another. You definitely do not want to spend more than what you can afford, so stick to your budget at all cost.

For more information, visit my blog and learn the tips and tricks of buying repossessed cars.

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Protect Your Home and Family With a Security Camera

By John Baker

Increasingly, folks these days are choosing to put in a home security camera in their houses to protect themselves and their property. There are many options when it concerns such products, and there is a big range of prices too, which depends on what you wind up deciding on.

Many cameras are created to observe a particular section of the house and can be integrated with your television or computer through a cable. Other cameras are wireless and can transmit by way of the internet, so you can observe your house from the convenience of your PC at work. A further alternative is a dome camera that is able to watch a much bigger zone than a standard security camera because of its shape. But these are more usually used for companies rather than as a component of a home security arrangement.

Numerous people install concealed cameras, also known as nanny cams. These pieces of equipment are purposely concealed within the house so that you will be able to observe distantly the actions of people within your house without them being aware of it. The reason they are called nanny cameras is that they are commonly used to keep an eye on the babysitter or nanny who is looking after the children while the parents are at work or otherwise away from the home. They can be extremely useful if you have a sneaking suspicion that that there is negligence or abuse taking place.

Several other varieties of security cameras are wireless and are integrated with your security arrangement by means of routers so that the recording can be played back on a monitor by way of the internet. These cameras are often a component of a complete home security system that is overseen by a company for a monthly fee. If the system reveals a problem, the company will inform the police or fire department for you.

A few cameras record in black and white and others can be watched in color, depending on your inclinations. The screens that they are connected to can be set up so that more than just one scene is displayed at any given time. Or you can switch to a new channel for each camera position. You can even receive notice by text message or email if movement is detected on your land, as is the case with a motion detection camera.

Many people, though, don't have loads of money to splurge on the best home security units. There's an option for them as well - it's known as a dummy unit. You can purchase true to life cameras that don't really function and set them up around the home. They cost roughly fourteen bucks each. These units have lights and they can move, so an intruder will believe that he is being observed. There are also wires that make the cameras seem to be even more authentic. They're considered to be a very good deterrent to those who are considering breaking into your residence.

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Tips On Finding Cheap Auto Insurance

By Joseph Welusz

It is possible to save hundreds of dollars each year by locating cheap auto insurance. Most people do not change auto insurance providers because of the hassle associated with changing over. It is more convenient for them to stay with the same insurance they have always had. There are really four things you can do to find cheap auto insurance. You can reduce your coverage on older cars, check for discounts, shop around and compare different insurance providers or have a higher insurance deductible.

The only way to determine what the lowest prices are for auto insurance is to shop around and request quotes from many different auto insurance companies. It is important that you compare all of the items that are included in the auto insurance. Just because it is inexpensive does not mean you should purchase bad auto insurance.

It is good to know how long it takes for a claim to be processed and when you can expect to receive payment. You want to choose cheap auto insurance but you still want to have a good insurance policy. You should not get a cheap insurance policy if it is bad insurance no matter how inexpensive the cost.

It is possible to find discounts without changing your auto insurer. If you have any negative points on your driving record you can get rid of some by taking a defensive driving course. The less points you have then the less your auto insurance will cost. it also may turn out to be less expensive to install a car alarm as you frequently will find companies providing discounts to those with ant-theft devices on their car.

A higher deductible can also decrease your auto insurance by as much as $1000 per year depending on how much you increase it. Many drivers have a low deductible as they do not want to have to pay a lot out of pocket should something happen to their car. However if you rarely ever have a problem then having a higher deductible will save you a lot of money over the years.

If you have an older car then you can drop the comprehensive or collision coverage on your policy to decrease your auto insurance. Before doing this you need to determine the value of your car and how the cost of collision and comprehensive coverage compares to the car value. If your car has a value of $2,000 and your deductible is $2,000 then having coverage will not actually help anything. If you are having difficulties finding cheap auto insurance then you should check online. There you should be able to find auto insurance that matches your budget and coverage.

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You Can Cook Caribbean Food At Home

By Melissa Walker-Jones

The beauty of the Caribbean is reflected in it's food. Everyone who has ever been to the Caribbean knows and loves the cuisine of the Islands. The history that is built into the world of Caribbean food, offers a combination of flavours, textures and aromas that delight the senses and tickle the palette.

If you are a fan of Caribbean food, then perhaps you are someone who is looking for recipes for dishes first sampled on a trip to one of the islands that you can cook at home. Perhaps you've not yet had a visit to one of the Caribbean islands but have friends or family that have introduced you to this type of cooking and you want to try it out for yourself.

Whatever the reason, sampling Caribbean dishes changes your world. The enjoyment factor when you get a little taste of the caribbean in dishes using authentic flavors, makes life that little more enjoyable.

Why is Caribbean cooking fusion cooking? The original south American indian tribes that inhabited the islands of the Caribbean, the Arawaks, Taino and Caribs cooked using the fruits and vegetables found on the islands. As more people from around the world arrived, the Europeans, who brought enslaved Africans, techniques, flavors and ingredients began to change.

As the Africans eat what was left from their slave masters, they coupled their own cooking techniques with the new ingredients and made from them delicious slow cooked stews and energy sustaining meals. They added herbs and spices to flavor the meat, and added vegetables to make the meals stretch. Later the influx of Chinese and Asian workers from Asia, added to the culinary mix.

As a home cook, you may enjoy trying new styles of cooking or experimenting with new recipes. Caribbean food and cooking authentic Island recipes is not beyond your grasp. If you combine the freshest and best ingredients that you can, you will find success in your endeavors.

The most important aspect of this style of cooking is in the marinades. If you are cooking a meat dish them be sure to season and leave to marinade for at least 2 hours, or preferable overnight in the fridge. This is an important part of Caribbean cooking as it is how the meat is tenderized and the flavors are allowed to soak in, giving the dish greater depth and body.

Unless you are frying the meat, it is usual for Caribbean meat to be slow cooked. This allows the seasonings to further penetrate the meat and for a good gravy base to develop. Steaming, boiling, stir frying are all techniques used in Caribbean cooking when it comes to vegetables. You may try roasting veg as well. Jamaicans, Barbadians and Trinidadians all enjoy eating roasted Yams, Corn and Breadfruit.

I hope this article has given you a little taste of the Caribbean and has even, possibly got you in the mood to try out some Caribbean recipes for yourself. As said before, Caribbean food is really a fusion style of cooking. The inhabitants of the Islands took what was available to them and created dishes that are still with us today.

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