Mccree

Making Love - How To Have A Firmer Erection?

2008-03-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

A lot guys just do not feel confident in their bedroom, when they are about to have sex with their women. Majority of them face the problem of not having a firm enough erection to satisfy his woman.

A man will need to feel that he is a LION in the bedroom, if not his confidence will drop greatly and affect his performance on bed. But when his woman is complaining about him not making her feel the orgasm because of weak erection, it is very hard for a guy to perform well.

Therefore, a lot of guys now seek for medical helps to improve make their erection stronger, and to last longer as well. A lot of medicine has been marketed nowadays, with Viagra one of the most famous and popular medicine around.

These medicines will definitely help you to solve your erection problems, but they are just temporary solutions. And I also do know that some of the guys out there are just too shy to buy them from a pharmacy, or are just too afraid to try them as they are worried of any side effects taking place.

While I am not a doctor to guarantee that these medicines will have no side effect, I am pretty sure that if you let your erection problem affecting your sexual performance, it will greatly destroy the passion and pleasure of your love making session with your lover.

Actually it is not the end of the world. Other than medicines, do you know that there are actually other ways that you can achieve a firmer erection and prevent premature ejaculation without medicines?

That is why I always never fail to stress that one must continue to seek knowledge. Those secrets are available to you if you seek for them.

To find out how you can achieve a firmer erection and prevent premature ejaculation WITHOUT medicine, check out the website below (be sure to read till the end of the page on the website)

Click Here To Find Out Now --> Secrets to Firmer Erection Without Medicine

Please feel free to republish this article on your website, or distribute it to your friends or clients, as long as you leave the above resource box intact.

Addressing More Than One Career Goal

2008-03-18T04:18:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest advantages to living in the world in which we live is that we are offered an incredible amount of choices with regard to our careers and our futures. If we were alive hundreds of years ago, our fates would have been decided virtually from birth; we would follow in the footsteps of our parents, regardless of our suitability for the task, unless they happened to have the money to send us to one of the many universities that were in operation at the time. Destiny was essentially predetermined.

Clearly, that is no longer the case because men and women of all ages have the freedom to determine what it is that they want to do with their life. When that goal is clear-cut and straightforward, its simple. All we have to do is focus in on what we want to do, format our resumes and/or portfolios appropriately, and get on with it.

So what if it isnt that simple? What if you have multiple ideas of what you want to do with your life?

The good news is that you dont have to forget about one of them. If you are attempting to pursue multiple career goals, here are a few tips to help you.

When you are attempting to pursue more than one career, you are going to find yourself in competition with people with that particular career as their only goal. They might have taken great care to structure their education, their resumes, and their prior employment experience in the interest of achieving that one goal. Before you step into the ring, be sure that you have the qualifications necessary to compete.

First, you must keep a separate resume for each career goal. This is important because not every employer is going to be looking for the same thing in an employee, and your resume and application materials should be customized to best emphasize your abilities for each career goal you are seeking. This is commonly known as writing a targeted resume.

Secondly, you should build and maintain a network. When you are attempting to pursue multiple careers, you are going to want to have a network that is going to allow you to succeed in each of them. If you are thinking, I dont know how to network relax. Networking is a piece of cake. All you have to do is allow yourself to be available socially, particularly for events related to the field you are attempting to enter. There are also many online opportunities on websites such as LinkedIn, Ryze, and Biznik.

If you can carefully follow the steps listed above, there is no reason why you should have to place limitations on your future.

Jennifer Anthony is the Director of ResumeASAP, offering professional and affordable resume writing services. If you have comments about this article, or if you are interested in learning more about professional resume writing, please contact Jennifer Anthony by e-mail.

Jennifer is also President of the Accredited Career Writers Association International and her career articles have been featured on hundreds of websites including CareerBuilder, MSN Careers, AOL Jobs, CNN, Net-Temps, TelCoa, and Telework Recruiting.

Higher Standards in Dance Education

2008-03-17T22:23:00.000-07:00

In order to run a day care or nursery school, one needs to be certified. To teach in the public schools, one needs at least a bachelors degree, preferably a masters degree. College dance programs require their faculty to have college degrees in addition to professional experience. So, what do you need to teach at a private dance studio: nothing. Anyone can throw up a shingle that says Dolly Dinkles Studio of Dance and be in business.

Is there a need for standards in dance education?

Dance is a physically demanding activity. Taught incorrectly, it can lead to injury. Improper training causes long-term damage to the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. In addition to the damage it can cause physically, poor standards in dance education lead to low expectations and even lower opinions of dance in the eye of the public. Exposed regularly to low quality dance, students and their parents grow to see dance as something trivial and frivolous. This trivializing of dance is dangerously subversive to the profession. After sitting through never-ending recitals of fringe and sequins, parents are unlikely to voluntarily see a live professional dance concert.

Even on the occasion that they do venture to a professional performance, they are often disappointed. After being accustomed to frilly recitals, a professional dance performance can seem mentally challenging, intense, and even dull. Every dance studio, show, or organization that adheres to poor standards diminishes the larger dance community by turning potential audience members, supporters, and emerging dancers away from dance.

So, why not create national standards for private dance schools?

The American psyche is still very much a cowboy (or cowgirl) at heart. We do not want rules and regulations encroaching on our precious freedoms. Many dance studio owners and teachers jobs would be threatened if they were required to meet national standards. To their credit, they point out outstanding individual teachers who had amazing performance careers, then became excellent teachers, but never received degrees. The fear is that standards would not only regulate poor teachers, but also punish good teachers. While a legitimate concern, I believe that teachers who are truly passionate about dance education would, or already do, embrace standards as a chance for self-improvement and not as an obstacle.

Where the United States fears to regulate itself, a higher percentage of private dance school educators in England and Canada have adopted professional standards and established curriculums in their practices. From my experience working in Canada, I found the dance education in the country to be more consistent from studio to studio than in America. They do not have the plethora of poor quality dance studios that I have found throughout the United States. The acceptance of professional standards and established curriculum has raised the bar of the average small-town dance studio above that currently practiced in America.

However, there is another side. Canada does not have as many exceptional, innovative dance education organizations as the United States. It would seem that standardization runs the risk of stifling creativity. Dance in the United States continues to be the leading innovator for the world. The concept of national standards in dance threatens innovation, our cowboy/cowgirl spirit, and our qualified, yet non-degreed, teachers. These factors lead to a resistance to accept standardization in the United States.

We need standards but were too stubborn to accept themwhat now?

While the American spirit is unlikely to bend to national standards created by a governing board, there is a group of individuals that already unknowingly sets the standards for dance schools: the parents. Parents drive the level of quality in our market-driven society. However, it is difficult for a parent, uneducated in the field of dance, to make an informed choice.

Unfortunately, many parents view the dance teachers role on par with the baseball coach or the cheerleading coach. Most coaches for youth baseball, soccer, and cheerleading were not professionals or professionally educated. And even fewer have been educated in how to teach. This is fine for youth sports. What they are not taking into serious consideration is the fact that the demands of dance training on the body, at even the youngest level, can create great growth or great damage. The seemingly harmless decision of finding a dance studio for your child can be harmful to their young bodies. It takes time and energy to research which dance schools live up to high standards.

If you pick up your local phone book and flip to the dance school section, you will find ads for a number of dance studios. Chances are, the majority of those ads claim to provide quality or professional instruction. Who is going to be honest enough to admit below average or highly amateur instruction? The term professional teachers is loosely tossed about in these advertisements. The average parent assumes that professional teachers are ones who danced professionally or were at least educated at a professional level. But often, the justification for the term is nothing more than claiming that the teacher is paid for teaching. Using that definition of professional teachers, I would like to the see the studio with non-professional teachers who work for free. I doubt they exist. As a parent searching for a dance school, you want the best for your child. Nevertheless, how can you decipher one school from another when they all claim to be exceptional?

What can we do?

I believe the education of the public is the dance communitys top priority. We must teach students and their parents the importance of proper dance education:

1) Teach them about proper fundamentals that do no harm. Knees over toes is the most fundamental safe practice in dance education, yet many uninformed teachers force turn-out on dancers who are either too young to properly execute it or physically unequipped to handle the demands. If parents know what practices are safe and which are not, they can make better decisions in choosing a dance school

2) Teach them the value of a progressive, structured curriculum. Slow and steady wins the race. There is a place and timea sequenceto learning dance. Rushing children to do pointe work or to try technical tricks before they are ready is detrimental to their education as well as dangerous to their bodies. If parents know how a properly structured curriculum works, they can find a dance school where correct education is the focus.

3) Teach them respect for themselves and for the art of dance. Age-appropriate themes, choreography, and costumes not only teach students self-respect, but also helps them learn the vocabulary of dance in the proper order. Inappropriate choreography applies equally to the jazz teacher showing young students suggestive movements as to the ballet teacher showing professional variations to students who are not prepared. If parents know what is age-appropriate, they can better choose a dance school that adheres to higher standards.

Educating students and parents on what proper standards are in dance education is the only way to ensure a future of healthy dancers, create informed audience members, and promote a new generation of qualified teachers. The responsibility for standards in private dance school education will not fall on some national governing board. Rather, it spreads out from each of us to our students and their parents. The responsibility is ours.

James Robey is Founding Artistic Director of the Bare Bones Dance Project, Artistic Director of Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance and Adjunct Faculty member at The Hartt School at University of Hartford where he teaches Horton Modern technique and Jazz Dance. James is active in the Connecticut, New York, and National dance communities as a guest artist, master teacher, independent choreographer, and lecturer. For more information visit web.mac.com/jamesrobeydance

The Printing Process On a T-shirt

2008-03-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

In todays fast paced life we have a lot of technologies that can be used to improve our lifestyle. We can even make clothing as we deem fit. Take T-Shirts. We can print T-shirts with anything we like. For example, it can be a photo of your beloved wife or some funny stuff like cartoons, jokes or philosophical statements. And most importantly we dont need to go to anyone to get the prints made. We can do it ourselves in the house with the help of our computer and printer. Yes! We can print it by using our good old inkjet printer.

To start the printing process you need to buy some material. A blank t-shirt of any color and a heat transfer paper. Ensure that the paper works with the household heat iron.

Now follow these few steps to get a fantastic printed t-shirt according to your choice.

Step 1: Design a graphic on your computer. The graphic colors should either match or contrast the t-shirt color.

Step 2: Print the graphic as a mirror image on the heat transfer paper.

Step 3: Place the paper either on the front or on the back of the t-shirt.

Step 4: Press a heated iron on the paper thoroughly. And then peel away the backing paper.

Thats it; you have manufactured a printed T-Shirt.

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn565.html

All Lenders Should Adopt Responsible Lending Policy

2008-03-17T10:31:00.000-07:00

A responsible lending policy should be adopted by all lenders, not just the banking sector, according to an industry expert.

According to Angela Knight, chief executive of the British Bankers' Association (BBA), credit suppliers who exist outside of the industry should be made to follow the Banking Code. Consequently, Ms Knight purported that consumers could receive greater protection as lenders will only issue money to those who meet certain repayment criteria. She added that otherwise borrowers could soon become "overstretched" and develop "serious" difficulties in making payments on personal loans.

The BBA chief executive, claimed in a letter to the shadow treasury minister, Mark Hoban that: "When a gap opens between what a borrower wants and what a bank wants to lend, too often an irresponsible lender steps in. Only around 63 per cent of unsecured borrowing now comes from the banks. There are certainly responsible lenders among the rest, but how is a consumer to know who they are or what their lending rules are?"

Her comments came as she suggested that non-banking lenders are making up for an increasing proportion of loan and credit deals taken up by Britons. She also claimed that a rising number of suppliers are offering loans to those borrowers who previously did not meet their bank's criteria.

The association reported that lending, when issued and used wisely, "has empowered generations" by giving them the chance to buy goods and services which otherwise could be beyond their reach. Meanwhile, borrowing was said to be "a very sensible tool" in spreading out the cost of purchases over several months, yet Britons were warned to make sure that they "remain in control" of their spending. It is advised that debtors who are unable to make the repayments to their various creditors, should either arrange a manageable payment plan with their providers, seek independent professional advice, or consider a debt consolidation loan.

As a result, BBA advised consumers looking to take out a loan to "trawl through" credit deals advertised by suppliers online and in the press to ensure that they find the most appropriate product for them. It is recommended that borrowers should consider various aspects of any agreement including, the cost of minimum monthly repayments, any fees and the annual percentage rate APR, it is also advised they should ask for a quote.

In recent figures released by the association, a rise was noted in money issued through secured loans. Over the course of May some 19.7 billion was lent out to consumers - an increase of some eight per cent from the same month last year. The BBA also indicated that the average loan per house purchase stood at 157,100, 13 per cent higher than last May. However, lending via credit cards was reported to have fallen by 0.4 billion over course of the month. Director of statistics for the BBA David Dooks claimed that the fall in card expenditure was due to a rising willingness among Britons to pay for goods upfront rather than borrow money. At the same time overdraft and personal loans lending was reduced by 0.1 billion.

Abbi Rouse is Editor in Chief for All About Loans. Our visitors have access to online loans of all types: From home improvement loans to bad credit debt consolidation loans. Visit our site today: http://www.allaboutloans.co.uk

Enlarged Prostate Benefits From Saw Palmetto To Promote Prostate Health

2008-03-17T03:55:00.000-07:00

Europe has been using Saw Palmetto to promote prostate health for years. Enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and the herb saw palmetto has been studied in European labs for it's effectiveness in treating the disorder. American labs lag far behind in their research of enlarged prostate and herbs to treat it. Modern medicine in America frequently relies on pharmaceuticals sometimes to the detriment of natural herbal remedies. For instance, Doctors usually proscribe Proscar (T) and other prostate drugs which take time to become effective, unlike the Saw Palmetto herb which will kick in within 30 days.

The medicinal part of 'Serenoa Repens' or the Saw Palmetto is derived from the partially dried ripe fruit of the plant. The Saw Palmetto herb is indigenous to Southeastern United States but is most prevalent in Florida. It is the sterols and the fatty acids that are found in the berry that are the active ingredients. In Germany ninety percent of treatments for BPH use the saw palmetto herb, while in Italy it is fifty percent. Their successes have been many since BPH is nearly universal in the aging process of men.

A Study done in Russia tested 150 men with an enlarged prostate who had been diagnosed with BPH and other prostatic problems. Their findings concluded that Permixon, a European brand of standardized saw palmetto herb extract, had a long term efficacy and acceptability as therapy for BPH. The test was conducted over a period of 24 months and it was found that the quality of life from the base line study improved dramatically. The men had decreased prostate size, better urinary flow and increased sexual activity. The saw palmetto herb works by protecting the gland from irritating testosterone levels and will promote it to shrink.

Even better news about the herb saw palmetto, is that when used to combat enlarged prostate its side effects are almost none and it is non-toxic. Some men complained of gastrointestinal disorders but these were relieved when the herb was taken with food. There were some concerns in the early stages of study that the saw palmetto herb would mask prostate cancer by lowering the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. After much more study this was found not to be true.

Many studies show that you must buy a brand that is 'standardized with at least 85-95 percent fatty acids' with 320 grams of the herb. In a few cases when large amounts where used it caused diarrhea in some patients. Studies have shown that the saw palmetto extract is effective in 90% of the men in clinical trials in over a four to six week period. Pharmaceutical drugs have been shown to need up to a year for significant improvement. Another benefit is that saw palmetto extracts are about one quarter of the price of pharmaceutical drugs.

There have been other herbs that have be cited as beneficial to enlarged prostate such as, stinging nettle, pumpkin seed, zinc, green tea, South African star grass and melatonin. None are as effective or show the promise of the saw palmetto herb.

In conclusion the benefits of the Saw Palmetto herb for an enlarged prostate are many. It will reduce symptoms of BPH, with occasional mild gastrointestinal distress but this is infrequent. The herbal remedy will not interfere with a prostate cancer diagnosis and it has no known drug interactions. The dosage has widely been agreed on by scientists as 320 grams per day and will cost you significantly less then a prescription drug.

If you have an enlarged prostate and you are looking for an herbal remedy speak to your Doctor about taking the saw palmetto herb to relieve your symptoms. Always speak to your Doctor before adding any medicines to your regime whether they are natural herbs, vitamins or supplements.

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

Mary Hanna writes eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles. Visit her websites at: http://www.biaxininfo.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com

Celebrating Mom on Mother's Day

2008-03-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

A Mothers work is never done. It is time to honor Mom for all the loving things she does every single day. Have you thought about how you will celebrate Mom? I have the menu planned for the entire day. Just a little planning and Mom will not have to step a foot in the kitchen all day long.

First of all, print out the recipes below and make your grocery list. Shop for your groceries on Saturday before Mothers Day. Dont forget to pick up some flowers for Mom. Once you come home, make the Buttermilk pie, Baklava Mini Bites and your Strawberry Soup. After you finish with the desserts and soup, prepare your Melba toast and toast your pecans. This will help with your Mothers Day meal preparations easier.

On Mothers Day get up early and prepare a wonderful breakfast in bed for Mom. This should take about 45 minutes to prepare.

For breakfast you will serve:

Cinnamon French Toast

4 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A sprinkle of sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
6 slices of dense bread
Maple syrup

Mix the eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow, wide-bottomed bowl that is large enough to accommodate a slice of bread. Grease a griddle with melted butter or margarine. Heat the griddle to 350 (medium-high heat). Dip a slice of bread into the egg batter, coating both sides. Remove the bread and place it on the hot griddle. Brown the bread on both sides, cooking each side about 2 to 3 minutes. Serve with maple syrup. Makes 6 servings

Variation: Top with maple syrup and berries of your choice: strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.

Spiced Bacon Twists

1 cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 lb. sliced bacon

Arrange oven racks in middle and bottom positions. Preheat oven to 350̊F. To make clean-up easy, line bottom of a broiler pan with foil.

Place a sheet of waxed paper on shallow tray or counter. Place brown sugar, mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg and cayenne on waxed paper and rub together with your fingers until mixture is evenly blended.

Dip bacon strips into sugar mixture, coating evenly. Twist each bacon strip several times. Arrange about half the slices in a single layer on rack of broiler pan. Bake 30 minutes or until bacon is almost crisp and sugar is bubbly. Carefully place hot bacon strips on a piece of clean aluminum foil to cool slightly before serving. Repeat with remaining bacon slices and sugar mixture. These may be served warm or a room temperature.

Makes about 24 servings.

Almond Tea

4 Tea bags your favorite tea from our Traditional Teas Collection
1/2 teaspoon Lemon zest, finely grated
4 cups boiling water
1/2 cup Sugar
2 tablespoons Lemon juice
1 teaspoon Almond extract
1/4 teaspoon Vanilla

Steep tea and lemon rind in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Stir in sugar, lemon juice, almond and vanilla. Serve hot

Lunch will take about one hour and thirty minutes to prepare. For lunch you will serve:

Beer Chicken

12 chicken thighs or your favorite chicken part, skin removed
2 large onions, chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tomatoes, diced
3 tablespoons ketchup
5 large carrots, peeled and sliced
2 large russet potatoes cubed
1/2 can beer
salt and pepper to taste
pinch of thyme
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 large green pepper, sliced
1 large red pepper, sliced

In a casserole dish, heat oil and saute onions until tender. Add chicken and saute until it is light brown on both sides. Add tomatoes, ketchup, carrots potatoes and beer. Season with dashes of salt and pepper and cook covered for 45 minutes. Remove the lid and add thyme and cornstarch. Stir and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add peppers and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Serve on a decorative platter.

Note: The cooking process removes the alcohol and leaves the yeast flavor.

Garlic Rice

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 large garlic cloves, finely sliced
2 cups rice
4 cups water or chicken broth

Over medium heat, saute garlic in olive oil until translucent but not brown. Add rice and stir until the garlic olive oil is well mixed into the rice. Add water or broth and raise heat to high. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to medium-low and continue cooking until water or broth is absorbed. Stir frequently. Serve in a decorative bowl, or surrounding the chicken on a large platter.

Roasted Broccoli

1 pound broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons pecans, toasted

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with the oil and salt and pepper to taste. Arrange the florets in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast, turning once, for 12 minutes, or until just tender. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and lemon zest and heat, stirring, for about 1 minute. Let cool slightly and stir in the lemon juice. Place the roasted broccoli in a serving bowl, pour the lemon butter over it and toss to coat. Scatter the toasted pecans over the top. Serves 4 to 6 servings.

*To toast pecans, place in small skillet. Cook over medium-high heat 1 to 3 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring constantly

Caesar Salad

1/4 cup (1 ounce) freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground mustard
8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
4 slices (about 1-inch-thick each) French bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes and toasted

Combine cheese, mayonnaise, water, lemon juice, garlic, Worchestershire sauce, pepper and mustard in small bowl; mix until creamy. Combine lettuce and dressing in large serving bowl; toss well to coat. Sprinkle with croutons. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Baklava Mini Bites

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups chopped walnuts
5 (18x14-inch) sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed

Glaze Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Butter, softened*
1 tablespoon honey
Melt 1/2 cup butter in 1-quart saucepan. Stir in 1/2 cup honey, lemon juice and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture is thickened (18 to 20 minutes). Remove from heat. Combine thickened honey mixture, and walnuts in small bowl; mix well. Cool to room temperature (1 hour). Heat oven to 350̊F. Cut phyllo sheets in half crosswise (14x9-inch rectangle). Place 1 1/2 cups filling on end of each phyllo rectangle. Roll up, starting at long (14-inch)edge. Combine all glaze ingredients; brush over top of dough. Cut into 1-inch slices with sharp knife. Repeat with remaining phyllo dough.

Place baklava slices onto ungreased baking sheet, cut-side down. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let stand 1 to 2 minutes; remove from baking sheet. Serve warm or cool.

Makes 28 servings.

Serve Moms favorite beverage with the meal.

Your light dinner will take about 30 to 45 minutes to prepare. For dinner, you will serve:

Spinach and Strawberry Salad

2 bunches spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
4 cups sliced strawberries
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

In a large bowl, toss together the spinach and strawberries. In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar, paprika, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat.

Melba Toast Recipe

Serve Melba toast with soup or salad.

1 long thin loaf of French bread
butter, softened
fresh grated Parmesan cheese

Slice loaf into 1/4-inch slices. Spread slices with butter then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place on a cake rack or other rack over a baking sheet, so drips will be caught and air will move around the slices.

Sweet Potato Sausage Balls

3 cups biscuit mix
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups sweet potatoes, mashed
1 pound sausage

Combine all ingredients well. Shape into balls and place on greased baking sheet with sides. Bake at 350̊ for 20 minutes, until brown.

Cold Strawberry Soup

2 pints pureed strawberries
3 ounces heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon lemon juice
3/4 ounce Amaretto liqueur

Mix all ingredients and serve chilled.

Buttermilk Pie

1/2 cup butter
1 1/3 cup sugar
3 eggs, separated
3 tablespoons flour
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
pinch salt
1 pie shell, 9-inch

Cream the butter and sugar; add the egg yolks, beating after each addition. Beat in flour and buttermilk; add the lemon juice, lemon peel, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Beat the egg whites until stiff; fold into the filling.

Pour the filling into the pie shell; cook in center of a preheated 325̊ oven until the custard is set and slightly brown, about 1 hour. Serve with berries, fresh fruit, or dessert sauce.

Even if you do not like buttermilk, you will love this pie!

At the end of the day, prepare Mom a wonderful bubble bath. Give her a couple of magazines and light a few candles in the bathroom. Let Mom enjoy her leisure bubble bath and reflect over her day of being a Queen.

Betty Lynch, author of Back to the Table with My Country Kitchen, and owner of My Country Kitchen, Easy Answers to Bring Your Family Together. You may visit her website at http://www.mycountrykitchen.com

Stunning Looks Can Be Yours

2008-03-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

Do you observe TV talk shows and reality shows with discouragement, wishing you could be the charmed recipient of your own extreme makeover? Fortunately, with the appropriate methods up your sleeve, you can achieve a do-it-yourself makeover at home. Even better, for this category of makeover, you wont need to go under the knife!

Prior to beginning your makeover, there are a couple of critical concepts that you need to comprehend about makeovers. Number One: Looking fabulous always commences with the basics. In other words, there is no reason to get a new haircut, applying a lot of makeup, and piling on the fancy wardrobe if your skin, hair, teeth, and body are not in great form. Number Two: Makeovers require time. When you see a TV makeover, you get the shortened version. In real life, it will almost always take weeks to months to achieve the results you want. But don't worry, because it will happen, and people will notice!

Keep in mind the four major areas that must be improved in order to have a effective makeover. Your skin must be soft, fresh, and clear, your teeth should be white, you need a flattering hair cut and color, and you need to be in marvelous physical shape. Without these four elements, you will not achieve that "healthy glow" you really wish for. Once you have these attributes, it's easy to add great clothes and flawless makeup.

I can only talk briefly about each of these areas in this particular article, but I'll give you some techniques you won't easily find anywhere else.

Blemish-prone skin can be a really frustrating problem to eliminate, but it is possible. You will need to use top-rated skin care products on your skin, but if you still have to deal with acne, you need to change your diet. Eliminate caffeine and as many chemical substances (such as high fructose corn syrup) as you can. Your body eliminates toxins through your skin, which can cause acne. See the footer of this article for the skin care products that get my highest recommendation for gorgeous skin.

An experienced stylist can design a flattering style for your face shape. You should definitely consider coloring your hair, as it can dramatically enliven your appearance.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are quite popular today, and definitely recommended for enhancing your smile. There are many options; just check to see that the product you choose uses hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient. Always follow the package instructions to avoid side effects.

Most intimidating of all can be the task of trimming down your figure, but it is vital. Not only your appearance, but your health demands that you maintain a slim body. My best recommendation for losing weight is to follow the Zone Diet. You can use a website such as formulazone.com. You must seriously commit to following the diet, but if you do you will surely have success.

Even though it may take you some time to achieve, you will be beyond proud of your accomplishment when you perform a true do-it-yourself makeover. Not only will you look great, but you will realize that you have dramatically improved your overall health in the process.

Visit Foolproof Acne Cures and Sense Skin Care to get the latest products to dramatically reduce, and even eliminate, your acne. Another favorite site is Teeth Whitening.

Aero Turbine Mufflers Increase Power And Fuel Economy

2008-03-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Aero Turbine Muffler accomplishes four main things. It increases fuel economy, it increases horsepower and torque, it reduces exhaust gas temperatures, and it improves engine longevity. I will explain how it accomplishes all this through its design and inner workings.

The mufflers that come on most of todays vehicles are full of baffles and restrictions. This creates back pressure on the engine that decreases performance, economy, and engine longevity. Aero Exhaust has created the Aero Turbine Muffler; this muffler has a straight through design and the inner workings of a jet engine. The muffler works like a jet engine to increase the flow of the exhaust as it flows through. This makes it so the engine doesnt have to push the exhaust away. The aero turbine actually vacuums the exhaust away from the engine. Getting the exhaust away from the engine and letting it breathe freely dramatically increases performance and engine longevity. It also reduces exhaust gas temperatures which makes it safe to add other performance modifications and run more power. Most importantly is the economy increase, especially with todays gas prices that are only on the rise. Thousands of users are experiencing huge increases in fuel economy on gas vehicles and diesels alike. Most are experiencing about a 15% increase in economy and there are even some getting up 25% better economy.

With the straight through type design of the Aero Turbine, most would expect it to be extremely loud. The swirling motion that the muffler adds to the exhaust as it flows through muffles the sound, and lowers the exhaust tone. So you end up with a deep throaty sound. It also comes in a resonated version, which has a built in resonator in the front of the muffler. Both versions have identical performance and economy increases, the only difference is that the resonated version of the muffler is closer to stock sound levels, although it still has a deep throaty tone to it. The non resonated version has more sound to it. The Mufflers work on all gas and diesel vehicles from cars to trucks and all the way up to even motor homes and RVs.

The Aero Turbine Muffler by Aero Exhaust increases engine efficiency and the Aero Exhaust Tip makes it look good - Nathan Young

5 Simple Steps to Greater Leadership Success

2008-03-16T03:25:00.000-07:00

Managers and leaders like you have many demands on their time. In this situation it is all too easy to fall into the trap of trying to do everything and becoming overloaded. The fact is we all only have 24 hours in a day. How you use that time is what sets you apart as one of the best. So what are the 5 simple steps to greater success?

Step 1: Know your deliverables

Everyone has job descriptions, most people have some form of appraisal and some idea of what is expected of them. On the other hand, how clear are you on your key deliverables? These are what you are ultimately going to be measured on. Performance against your key deliverables impact on your salary, your promotion potential for example. Yet surprisingly, people often do not know what their key deliverables are. If this applies to you, make it a priority to find out today.

Step 2: Analyse your time

I often have clients keep a record of where they spend their time over a 2-3 week period. In many instances they discover that the bulk of their time is going on activities that do not directly contribute to key deliverables. Once you are clear on your key deliverables, do this for yourself and see if you are spending your time on what really matters.

Step 3: Make changes

Once you have analysed your time and identified mismatches between your deliverables and activities, it is time to do something about it. This might mean that you delegate more, get more selective about meetings you attend or how you deal with e-mails.

Step 4: Make time for planning

As a leader, planning is an important part of your role. You and your team need to be clear where they are heading over the coming months. Start with a plan covering the next quarter that subsequently breaks down into monthly, weekly and daily plans.

Step 5: Monitor results

Plans deliver results when they are executed. Sometimes you will get the results you expected. Other times you will get different results than you expected and may not even get any results. Make sure that when you execute plans you have a process in place to check progress and make changes where appropriate.

At the end of the day we all have 24 hours at our disposal. The question is how smart do you want to be in using this?

Duncan Brodie helps accountants and professionals to be great managers and leaders. Start to unlock your brilliance. Sign up for his free monthly newsletter at http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk

The Top Five Reasons Why Indie Musicians Quit

2008-03-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

Having spoken to hundreds of musicians throughout my music career, it is interesting to note how some have let the dream fade into the past in favour of a life of normality, whilst others are still walking the yellow brick road in search of stardom. The question we ask is, why do people give up and what happens next?

1. Finances.

If its not already hard enough having to be the one man band in every area of musicianship, consider the amount of money which needs to poured into a single act in order for it to achieve notable attention and success. Most musicians are poor souls trying to earn a living from their talent. But talent alone doesnt generally take an independent master of music to the height of comfort and prosperity if he remains unsigned indefinitely!

The costs of reputable legal representation, CD pressing, professional studio services and equipment, to name just a few, are high enough to cause even a wealthy individual to hide away his wallet.

More and more musicians are going it alone in the hope that they will be able to snap a deal at some point, which would relieve the financial headache and burden. So they keep going and going until the coffers are worn thin. But still, for many, when is that break ever going to come?

2. Commitments.

Its a classic story. Bobs been playing in a band for six years. He has his heart set on stardom and fame. But then one day, along comes Mary, who initially loves the attention he receives and finds the whole band thing gives her a buzz. She is drawn to his talent and his soulful, expressive hobby. But one day Mary wants to be the FIRST most important thing in Bobs life and soon he starts to feel the pressure.

His attention to the game is emotionally driven off course, as he frets about how he now has less time to make music and his band mates think he should get rid of Mary! How can he let her mess it up? But Bob cant dump Mary because he loves her and despite this indifference their relationship has been truly wonderful.

Perhaps if he gives it a break for a few years he can always come back to it again, couldnt he?

3. Band Splits.

Yes it happens to the famous as well as the unheard of. Unfortunately disagreements are a fact of life. However if you are a band hoping to rise to the top, constant disagreements do not bode well for your musical career!

Some band members split and dont necessarily quit, but join other bands or go solo. Its much harder to pick up the pieces though if the band are already represented by an agent or label and have commitments to fulfil. The job of an agent or representative is to ensure that disagreements are solved professionally, and small quibbles may be solved over a drink and a game of pool.

Sadly though, getting a group of people to agree to each others opinions, future musical direction, (plus all the hundreds of other little decisions and details that require unanimous agreement) is more than impossible for a good length of time.

4. Pressure.

A word everyone in any industry or vocation is familiar with. If we never had any pressure we would take a lot longer to move ourselves out of the comfortable zone and into the firing squad. And boy do indie musicians get a lot of pressure!

They have the pressure to get noticed.

They have the pressure of making it big.

They have the pressure of making sales.

There is also the pressure to feed a family and pay all the general household bills before making it big.

Pressure is an enemy one can ill afford, but generally shifts us into fifth gear and keeps us soldiering on. I remember talking to a friend who gave up his indie career because the pressure of trying to get heard was causing him nasty headaches.

I remember his quote: Itll kill me and Ill be gone, and then youll hear my song on the radio. Needless to say once he relieved himself of that pressure the headaches vanished. He now works in an office position which pays him well, and he feels he is now compensated well for his input and knowledge.

5. Competition.

Lets face it; we all have a competitive streak. Its what makes the world turn so rapidly and produces experts in all subject and areas.

For the indie musician though, the competition is the biggest drawback to his chances of success.

Its impossible! There so many unsigned people out there, he yells in frustration.

The competition we face today is more apparent due to the visibility of artists online trying to make their way to the top. If we were to go back to the highlights of The Beatles era, we wouldnt know who or where half of these aspiring individuals were!

As many musicians step upon the unsteady bricks of uncertainty; and try with all their might to achieve some online success, many are blown off the sidelines by even more fiercely competitive and power hungry individuals. The competition is so fierce that some eventually decide that its not worth the headache or hassle, and just go back to making music for the reasons they intended originally for the pure love of it!

So there you have it. There are countless many more reasons why musicians quit, but then again, in all fairness there are countless reasons why many don't.

We love music and there will always be reasons to keep making it and proudly showing it off. So before you fall into one of those categories above, think hard about how you intend to manage your own music career and become a winner rather than a quitter.

Carla is a musician and freelance writer with over ten years experience in the music industry. She currently manages independent music label Melodrift Productions, and is the Editorial Assistant for News site http://www.indienewslive.com For detailed information on Carla's career please visit http://www.carla-acheson.co.uk

How to Start an Ebay Business

2008-03-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

eBay has become a huge business with people raking in hundreds of dollars selling discounted merchandise ranging from garage sale items to new products and collectibles. Research shows that more than 700,000 people across the world make a living, either part time or full-time selling on eBay. It is interesting to note that as more people generate income from eBay, the greater the number of shoppers attracted to the site.

Most people wanting to start an eBay business come as buyers, get hooked on the bandwagon, learn the art of selling and as they clear the belongings they have set out to sell, they realize that they have started making money as well. Thus, several enterprising individuals who began as part time home based businesses have turned these into thriving companies employing numerous employees.

But just as with all small businesses, one must be aware of certain things while starting an eBay business. There is a huge market with many buyers and lots of competition. The issues dealing with finance, warehousing, payment channels and fulfilling orders also remain equally challenging.

To start an eBay business, is like investing time and effort in any other. So ensure that you have a prudent business plan just like for a traditional business. Also, make sure that it is in congruence with your lifestyle and your needs with attainable goals.

Think about the products that you are going to offer and strategize on how to buy and sell on eBay. What would you prefer to be retail store offering a variety. or a discount merchant with specialized products? Is there anything that distinguishes you from your competitors? Select access to buying products will allow you an edge over your competition.

The trick of buying and selling on eBay would be to buy at a low cost and sell at a premium and thus generate profits. But its not always that simple. You have to think carefully of your strategy for buying products at a price thats low enough to allow you a profit margin when you mark it up to a price that is still attractive to your market. Also account for the turnover and how your profit margin combined with it will support your operations and still deliver a profit to you.

Once you have your business plan all figured out and products decided, you need to register yourself at eBay. Visit eBay and click on the Sell tab at the top of the homepage. Follow the step-by-step instructions to register as an eBay community member. You will have to provide your basic contact information, as well as banking information, such as credit card and checking account numbers. Once that is done, give your business a structure by filing for incorporation or forming a limited liability company.

Since it is a business, whether part-time or full time, keep separate accounting books so as to avoid creating confusion during tax season. Also get insurance for yourself and your eBay business.

Once all the preliminaries are sorted out, there are issues that need to be heeded of a more serious nature. These include paying for your merchandise, stocking goods, receiving payments from customers, as well as financing your business. Although there are many options for all of these, seek out the best suited for you. Stocking can start with garages or basements to save costs in the initial period. You can even use rental storage units and once money starts coming in think of more permanent options like warehouses. You can link up with your customers through payment companies like PayPal, which is an online payment service that enables buyers to pay for their purchases by drawing funds from their credit cards or checking accounts.

After all the logistics are taken care of, you can start your eBay business. Ensure that your web pages are well designed and attractive with good photographs of the products so that customers keep visiting. This is important, as this is the only way for a person to know what he is buying. Decide on which model you want to use to sell your goods, auction model or fixed price model. Packing and shipping need special attention to ensure repeated business. Finally, pay attention to your eBay feedback rating especially designed to help eBay buyers and sellers police each other. As you collect positive ratings, buyers will view your business in a credible light, an extremely critical aspect of eBay.

With all this you are set to becoming a successful entrepreneur on eBay!

William Brister
http://www.BusinessProGuide.com - Detailed Online Business Guide.

Herbal Viagra : A New and Natural Alternative to ED Treatments

2008-03-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Probably everybody has heard of the erectile disorder called ED. Until not long ago, the only remedy for these affections was to use viagra, the magic pill produced by Pfizer. Then, another wonder of the pharmaceutical industry was introduced in the market: another medicine called Cialis, produced by Lilly ICOS LLC, followed shortly by Levitra produced by Bayer, the renowned german company. All these medicines have had and still have a great success on the pharmaceutical market all over the world. Millions of men worldwide use these pills this very moment. Nevertheless, these drugs present several disadvantages.

One of them is their high price. Being the only ones to produce these products, these companies have created a sort of monopoly on the markets throughout the world, and because of this they could practice a very high price. But then several alternatives to the brand variants of these medicines appeared on the market, known as the generic variants. These medicines have not received the FDAs approval to be used in the US, even if these generic drugs are identical to the brand variants, the only difference consisting in the pills` different color.

Another alternative to the common medicines used for treating ED, much cheaper and which has no secondary effects at all is the brand new Herbal Viagra. Its main advantages are the low price comparing to the one of the common viagra, and the same efficient results in treating the ED. An issue that we all have to agree on is the reason why viagra and cialis are so popular throughout the world: and the answer is the hundreds of millions of dollars invested in promoting and in advertising them. In fact, the majority of men taking viagra or cialis should actually be aware of the fact that a better nutrition and a healthier lifestyle can solve their sexual problems.

Another important advantage for using herbal viagra is the lack of secondary effects. A high percent of men using these drugs (viagra or cialis) have accused several secondary effects of all sorts. Herbal Viagra represents a safer alternative from this point of view. Herbal Viagra products usually contain natural aphrodisiacs that have proven their efficacy in raising the sexual appetite and in improving the sexual intercourse.

Almost all the Herbal Viagra varieties are made of antique natural remedies, which were recently given a scientific background. Unlike the common viagra, which one can obtain only after having been subjected to a medical examination, Herbal Viagra does not require a visit to the doctors.

It has also been discovered that a 42% of women suffering from loss of sexual desire have ameliorated their sexual life after having tried a naturist treatment.

Another important point to specify is the fact that Herbal Viagra products nourish the human organism with various amino acids, vitamins and minerals whose effects in the sexual activitys optimization have been scientifically proven.

Trey Livorno wants to inform people interested in ED treatments about a new alternative to viagra , and that is Herbal Viagra . For more information regarding Herbal Viagra , you can visit http://Herbal-Medicine-Life.com.

Website Development - Top 3 Tips for Getting Started & No Longer Feeling Overwhelmed

2008-03-15T02:00:00.000-07:00

Do you know today a website is as essential as a business card? Yet many professionals feel overwhelmed with the prospect of setting up their business websites.

Do you feel overwhelmed with the idea of starting your own website? Website Development: Top 3 Tips for Getting Started and No Longer Feeling Overwhelmed provides three easy to follow tips to begin your entry into the world wide web!

1. Create A Name.

One of the first steps for developing a coaching website is creating a business name, and registering a domain name for your website.

A domain name is the keyword before .com, .net, .org, etc. For example the domain name for bayareacoach.com is bayareacoach.

For your coaching business, you ideally want to register a .com domain name. The reason for this is .com is associated with businesses, whereas .org is for non-profits, and .net is for networking companies (i.e. verizon.net).

You can go to any number of free domain name search engines (for example go to directnic.com), to see if your domain name is available. Be patient with this process as it takes a lot of creativity to find a name that has not already been taken.

2. Remember Your Own Name Has Value

With professions that require a personal touch such as coaching or medicine, you will want to register your own name (yourname.com). For example, I own neerapuri.com. Registering a domain name is relatively inexpensive. Sometimes people are more likely to remember your name, than even your business. If they misplace your business card, and try to google your name, your registered personal name will show up in a domain name search.

Once you know a domain name is available, you will want to contact your web designer to know where to register the domain name for your website development. Many professionals do register multiple domain names, given they are so affordable. Usually with your domain name registration, you can set up a free domain forwarding rule that will point any domain you register to your working website. This way, you can focus on developing one really good website, and forward the other inexpensive domain names you registered to your main business website.

3. Registering Your Domain Name

You generally want to register your domain name with the place you are going to host your website- the place it will be held for work by the web designer. For example, if your web designer prefers to host your website on Bluehost.com, then you want to register your domain there.

Once you register your domain name for your website, you will feel marvelous, overcome your fear of websites, and be on your way to your first professional website!

Visit http://www.bayareacoach.com for tips and strategies for marketing your website. Dr. Neera Puri is the founder and CEO of Bayareacoach.com. She is a clinical psychologist and business coach who assists with creative marketing, practice building, and overcoming writing blocks. Contact her at http://www.bayareacoach.com

Effective Tips -- How To Get Rid Of Love Handles

2008-03-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

The holidays have come and gone, and the number one pressing question Americans are asking is how to get rid of love handles that stubbornly cling to our sides after the festivities are over? Sadly, just knowing that diet and exercise are good for you, doesnt seem to cut it for most of us. We all want a quick fix, something that works now.

The only way we truly know how to get rid of love handles, requires several months of dedication to the process. There is no quick fix for getting rid of fat that took months, or even possibly years, to put on. But by following the simple steps below, your body will finally figure out how to get rid of love handles that may have bothered you for years.

Cardio Exercise

While all exercise is great for your body and your health, it has been proven that at least thirty minutes of cardio exercise such as walking, jogging, and bicycling, at least three times a week is an effective tool in the search for how to get rid of love handles. The trick to working your oblique muscles, which is where love handles reside, is to find an exercise in which you rotate your upper torso while keeping your lower body straight. While there are a number of cute little machines out there on the market that claim to do this for you, I have found that sitting in a straight-backed chair while twisting my upper body from side to side is just as effective.

Cut Carbs

Okay, lets clarify that one. I am not advocating that diet where you cut out all of your carbs that everyone knows about. In fact, I am not only a firm believer that that particular diet is NOT how to get rid of love handles, but also that it is actually unhealthy for you. What I am proposing is simply cutting out one or two servings of bread or pastry each day. And you dont even have to cut them completely. Simply replace a normal serving of regular white bread with a serving of whole grain bread.

Turn Off The T.V.

Or the computer, or whatever it is that keeps you sitting on your backside. A loss of energy can be directly related to not getting enough exercise. So if you really want to know how to get rid of love handles, turn off your television and move! Increasing your activity level by just fifteen minutes a day, with a quick walk, a little vigorous housework, or even just a quick game of tag outside with the kids, will go a long way toward getting rid of those pesky love handles.

Eat More

What! Did I just say, eat more? Yes I did. Research has shown that an effective method for how to get rid of love handles is to increase your metabolism. This cannot be achieved through dieting. Dieting reduces your calorie intake, yes; but it leaves you feeling hungry, and more prone to binging or not following through. A much more effective method to increase your metabolism, is to eat six or seven smaller meals throughout the day. Not only will you keep your metabolism in high gear, but you will also find that you fill up faster, and so end up eating less!

No Matter what you have tried before, if it hasnt worked for you take heart. The combination of extra activity, increasing your metabolism by eating more often, and adding specific oblique targeting cardio exercises to your daily routine is the only effective plan for how to get rid of love handles.

Discover the secrets of getting rid of love handles! Click the link now - How To Get Rid Of Love Handles

Career In Video Game

2008-03-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

What if I showed you how you can make $2000 per month, just by playing games? Don't believe me? By the end of this article your perspective on work will have completely changed. Why? Because you'll have learned that you don't need some run of the mill job to make a living. And you'll have greater insight into how you can slowly accumulate wealth as a video game tester by doing what you love. At the end of this article, I provide a link that will get you started right away. In the meantime, read on to learn more about this fantastic money-maker!

In today's world it is important to choose a career that generates enough money to enjoy the best things in life. There are so many career options like law, medicine, accounting and other business ventures. If you're looking for an unconventional career then I suggest you find one that keeps your interest and sparks your passion. After all, most people find the greatest success in a career that they enjoy. Did you know one could get a job by playing or creating video games? There are many different types of careers available for the people who have an interest in this field.

Programming

According to my opinion, video game programmers are the core operating employees of this industry. These programmers create the necessary codes for the proper game operations. The programming part is not always easy. Sometimes it is a challenging job to do. It sometimes involves complex functions and troubleshooting that make the job demanding in terms of your patience and dedication. A person who has a talent in mathematics as well as analytical knowledge is always a fit in this field.

Video Game Tester

From my personal experience I can say that video game testing is a career where one can get paid bucket-loads of cash for playing unreleased games. The employees responsibility is to play beta games, as a general user does, and sees if there is anything wrong with the gameplay. As a newbie in this industry one can start as a video game tester. Its a terrific way to get your foot in the door. As a video game tester one needs to have passion for games and some relevant educational background as well (knowledge of the Windows Operating System etc.).

Animator

Being an Animator is another exciting career option in the videogame industry. Animators give a real life touch to games. After the process of programming & testing, the animators do their job to make the games more interesting. Basically animation is nothing but real life acting by the game characters. The basic demand of this job is to create characters that will be seen by the gamers around the world. One opting for this career should preferrably have a degree in animation.

Sound Designer

The responsibility of Sound designer is to create music and sound effect for the video games. Game Music is either done digitally or by true instruments. As the demand of video games increases, the style of game audio is also increasing. Nowadays the sound designers want to create the appropriate sounds required for a particular game. Thus the job has become a creative experimentation.

If somebody wants to be a successful sound designer then firstly the person must have a keen interest in sound and music. Secondly the person must have the right knowledge about recording technology and last but not the least the person must be familiar with upcoming trends in game music. A good video game degree can help a person to build up the above mentioned talents.

Game Designer

The job responsibility of a video game designer is to create the experience while playing a game. They make sure that games are fun to play with. They design the game from beginners level to advance level, like they handle the core mechanism of a game. A good designer should possess enjoyment in games, with knowledge of programming and artistic skills.

As a video game testing professional I can say that this industry has release a passion in me for my work and I have truly found happiness in my career.

Are you still sitting on your butt playing the latest PS3 game and NOT GETTING PAID? Don't be such a sucker. You can be making some sweet sweet cash right now for going about your normal video game playing routine. Click Here To Learn More About How To GET PAID Testing Video Games

Gifted Evangelist Book Hits the "Net"

2008-03-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Here's a quote taken from Chapter 11, page 29 of my first book - "If I were to state everything that Annah did, I wouldnt be able to finish this story!" If you've read that publication, "The Story of Annah," youll know that the half hasnt yet been told. Eph. 4:11- And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists Wait - Stop right there!

And being the answer to a few saints prayers in the story, this called by God gifted evangelist shares her struggles and accomplishments during her 4 year evangelism ministry, to bring a world to its knees, while overcoming many pitfalls Satan has put in her way! Thats enough to show her "chief adversary" as being the liar that he really is. Just know that, while youre reading, shes not bragging about herself, in a selfish sense, but is making her boast in the Lord. And after reading her story, you'll begin to realize that no goal is impossible, with the Lords help, and acknowledge that "Jesus is Lord!" And that's no story! OK Mrs. Lei! You're on . . .

The Challenge

Praise the Lord! - Its little oh me, Annah! And because the Prime Minister claimed me as his own daughter, before my 21st birthday, I wont let living at the palace to go to my head. Sometime ago after God called me, he has told me that Satan, the ruler of darkness, had challenged him, saying, "I bet you'll end up having to destroy the people within 5 years after all, because I've contaminated them, so badly; and look at what I've done to your so-called saints." But, God told him, Not so! I have a Master plan to bring the world to its knees. Then, Satan laughed, saying, "Within five years? Impossible! You know that you don't have the time to tolerate the human race much longer - so there!" But, God said to him, "Think again! Is there anything too hard for me?" And Satan said, All the humans are pathetic. Although your Son didn't fail in his time, I can cause anyone else to serve me and hate you. Finally, God said, My plan shall not fail. But, yours already have. And then, Satan was no longer laughing after that and said, Well see about that - youre on!

Annahs Personal Testimony,

Unfortunately, I was living in a crazy world in which the saints, as a whole, had become distracted by Satan's power and gotten weak to the point where the evil forces were able to take over, causing hatred and violence among the people worldwide. My own life was even shattered, when my father was gunned down in our kitchen and then, my mother shot herself to death, later on the same evening. Being displeased, the Lord was angry over all the evil that was happening among people worldwide and wouldve destroyed them, almost immediately. But instead, he heard the cries of a faithful few, through his mercy, and did something miraculous.

Prior to that, I was a martial arts fighter and one of the best - anyone who messed with me, got his butt kicked, if not killed! My high school classmates did call me, "The bombshell with a short fuse." Shortly after turning 20, I was fatally wounded, following a fight with three men. A short time, after being pronounced dead on the operating table, the Lord brought me back and gave me an assignment, after healing me. And following this, I experienced his overwhelming Holy Ghost presence within me, after being given special powers. And not long after that, I came to realize that from the time the Lord called me, Satan's plan was bound to fail, when he failed to take my soul to the Hell that was made for him.

As you'll see in my diary, Satan did move certain people against me and put traumatic scenarios in my way, to hinder my mission, which is, to evangelize God's name, to curb the violence, to bring nations together, and to strengthen his saints.

And being assured that the Lord was with me, during and after my training, I proceeded to carry out my "God-given" assignment, even in the midst of my fears, as Satans attacks gradually increased. For the Lord already knew that if I followed his divine instructions, his plan would prevail over Satan's evil plots, because of his special powers working through me, in the form of signs, wonders, and prophecy. Maybe, this is why it wasnt necessary to put a timeframe upon me, saying, "You have only five years or else, the people of this wicked generation will perish." Anyway, Satan had a contract out on my life to stop me, even during my early missionary days, hoping, if having done so, that God would withdraw his mercy.

Each day, Ive been keeping a diary, from the first week of my assignment, which was about six months after my 24th birthday; not the time before, after turning 20, in which, I was in training. Now, I'm going through my diary to reflect on my many experiences, starting from week one. I'm 30 years old now, 5 months pregnant, and my husband has just left on another business trip. Once I got started in my ministry of evangelizing, I had my personal scribe to take my verbal notes. As youll see, that in my diary, I use my first name a lot - thats OK, because Im a Japanese woman, still trying to get the feel for other languages. Want to look at my diary with me? Let's see! It all started . . .

(The rest of this book,"Diary of Super Evangelist" is available on lulu.com and other online retailers.)

Hi my name is Bruce. And if you're divinely inspired, be sure to read the new release of my publication. Besides having written and published this third book, more info can be found at this address, http://gibsondigitalphotosvcs.com and I hope you enjoy the new release of my new book.

Ear Candling With Biosun Ear Candles

2008-03-14T01:37:00.000-07:00

The process of cleaning the earwax (cerumen) and toxins naturally by means of a hollow candle placed in the ear is called ear candling. This process is also variably known as ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy. Under the process, one end of the ear candle is placed in ear canal and the other end is lighted. The vacuum that is resulted from the burning of the one end of the candle cleans out the ear. During the process the person experience a pleasant crackling sound and a warm comfortable feeling.

The whole process of cleansing the ears with candles usually takes around forty five minutes and one or two candles are used for each ear. The candles used in getting rid of yeast or wax from ear through this folk medicinal practice are available in various colours and qualities. Among them Biosun ear candle come under the most popular category.

Regarded as the best and the safest products, Biosun ear candle are made by hand using a traditional recipe and the finest ingredients, such as pure beeswax, honey extract and traditional herbs. They are certified medical products according to EC guidelines 93/42 (EEC) and regularly tested by independent research institutes. This natural product is given artistic touch by making slight differences in colour or length.

Since the ear candle treatment is a non-invasive, relaxing and soothing experience, they are widely used throughout Europe, America and Asia by GP's and hospitals to treat a variety of ear, nose and throat conditions. Cleaning out excessive or compacted wax in the ears, taking out yeast and dispelling fluid that builds up in the ear are some of the purposes for which they are used. People also use them for eliminating backed up mucus, discouraging candida, diminishing chronic sinusitis, enhancing hearing capability.

Even, ear candles are used to enhance taste and smell power, relieve ear pain, restore equilibrium or pressure in the ear or getting rid of noises like ringing, tinnitus in the ears. In rare cases the benefits of ear candles are challenged. But these are the claims of sceptics and do not have strong base. Most of the ear candles are registered as medical devices. However, it is recommendable to be careful while buying this product so that you can purchase the genuine one.

Hudson is a successful author and loves to research and write on various types of Ear Candles, an age-old medicinal practice of getting relief from ear pain and discomfort. He has also written many books on Fragranced Tealights, Nag Champa Incense, Tealights and many more. He is currently associated with "Something for the Wickend," an online portal that sells candles for every occasion.

Men's Skin Care Tips

2008-03-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

Tip #1: Moisturize
Whether youre 17 or 70, you need to get into the habit of applying moisturizer on a daily basis. If youre worried about wrinkles, dark circles or puffiness, you may also want to consider adding a night cream and/or under eye cream to your routine. There are several different types of moisturiser out there, so make sure you pick one that is most suited to your skin type. At first it may take a little getting used to, but youll thank us in years to come.

Tip #2: Wear Sunscreen
The suns rays can cause severe damage to your skin and are the leading cause of premature aging. Its important to try and minimise your exposure to the sun and ensure that youre properly protected whenever youre outside. There are a number of products on the market from which to choose - the simplest way is to use an SPF-enhanced moisturiser.

Tip #3: Stop Smoking
Smoking really takes a toll on your skin. Besides giving you dull, ashen appearance, it also affects the production of collagen so over time, youre more susceptible to dry, saggy and wrinkled skin.

Tip #4: Drink Plenty of Water
Water is used by the body to flush out toxins and waste. Drink up and you'll see a noticeable difference to your skin.

Tip #5: Dont Use Regular Soap to Wash Your Face
Instead, get your hands on a quality face wash/facial cleanser that suits your skin type and use it every day.

Nathan Jancauskas is the owner of http://www.strictlymensbusiness.com.au and has written a number of articles on men's skin care and grooming. Their website contains a range of high-end men's skin care brands and a wealth of fact sheets and grooming tips, from skin types to shaving. They also have a grooming forum (http://www.strictlymensbusiness.com.au/share/) where you can seek answers to all your skin care questions.

Freelance Copywriter Secrets: Honesty is Good For the Bank Account

2008-03-13T04:21:00.000-07:00

freelance copywriter, copywriting tips, white papers, freelance commercial writer

Dan Kennedy is a freelance copywriter who is regarded as a hero by many of us in the copywriting profession. And for good reason, my copy of his book, The Ultimate Sales Letter, is highlighted, bookmarked and contains many, many of my handwritten notes in the margins. It is one of the best books on copywriting I own. Someday maybe I can even have his autograph in it.

One piece of advice Dan gives has paid me back many times the cost of his book in my work as a freelance copywriter. Not only is it a highly effective way to increase your credibility in the eyes of your reader, it can also help you hold a readers attention and it can position your product or service as the owner of its own niche.

As a credibility tool, this bit of Dans wisdom has few equals. When you incorporate this technique in your ad copy, it immediately sets you apart from the crowd of were great, or our widget is the best marketers.

As a tool for grabbing a readers attention and holding it through your copy, this technique uses both curiosity and self interest. It heightens the readers sense that some very strong benefits are about to be revealed that cant be missed.

As a positioning tool, it helps you create your own category. No longer must you fight with the big fish in the pond. You can now own your own pond and be the only fish for miles around.

What is this wonderful piece of advice? Dan devotes an entire chapter to the concept of Create A Damaging Admission and Address Flaws Openly.

Lets face it, your widget may really be the best on the planet, but it still has its flaws or weaknesses. Not only that, your competitors widget is not all bad, with no positive points worth mentioning.

So what do you do? You meet these weaknesses head on. If your product is priced higher than your competitors, admit it right up front. But then marry that drawback with a corresponding positive. Why is your product more expensive? What extras come with that higher price tag? What reasons can you give prospective buyers to ignore the higher price and focus on additional benefits they wont get with a lower priced competing product?

Build honesty and credibility. On rare occasions, I have actually heard politicians praise their opponents (I did say this was rare) and then point out the issues upon which they disagree. When I hear this sort of political discourse, I have several reactions.

First, I find myself experiencing warm feelings toward this rare politician who takes the higher ground, even though I know his campaign workers may be, at that very moment, digging up dirt on that opposing politician).

Second, I find that I give the point of disagreement much more importance than I would otherwise. By admitting a few things he or she liked about the opponent, I am made to care more about those differences.

For marketers, when you do reveal your positives after admitting your flaws, you are building strong credibility. Your prospective customer is much more likely to believe your positive points after you admit your shortcomings.

Suspense. Nothing holds a readers attention and interest like suspense. When you start your ad by admitting a few flaws or by praising some features of your competition, your reader begins thinking, if these guys are willing to expose these negatives, there must be a positive coming that I dont want to miss.

People know you are paying good money for your ad. And they know you are not doing it to promote your competition. So they start expecting to hear something fabulous about your own product. They know its coming, they know it will offer strong benefits and it will appeal to their self interest.

Positioning. Sometimes establishing your uniqueness is a matter of refusing to compete on everyone elses playing field. When Avis famous campaign admitted that they were number two, they were refusing to compete with Hertz for dominance in a race Hertz already owned. Instead they chose to play on the field of trying harder, which they explained meant giving more customer service and greater attention to the little things.

Suppose you are writing an ad for a sports car. Sports cars are notoriously impractical and only appeal to a small niche of people who (at least in the eyes of others) are showing off, compensating for something else or just never grew out of their fantasies to be James Bond. How might you promote such a car? Heres an example:

The Thunderbolt XYZ does not have room to put a childs seat in the back. In fact, it doesnt have a back seat at all.

Also, if you are expecting to put six bags of groceries in the trunk, forget it. You can put two, or maybe three bags at the most, in the Thunderbolts trunk.

Carpooling a bunch of kids to soccer practice? Not a chance.

But if you want to race down an open country road with an autumn breeze blowing through your hair, if you want a car that hugs corners like super glue, or if you want to make your old fraternity brothers question their entire lives, the Thunderbolt is your car.

Such an ad certainly wont appeal to everybody, but to its very narrow target audience, it might have a very strong appeal indeed. You might want to also check out my article, Freelance Copywriter Secrets: 10 Steps to Writing a Powerful USP if you want to read more about dominating a specific niche.

This technique is so powerful that Dan Kennedy advocates trying really hard to come up with negatives just so you can admit them in your ad. And when you can increase your credibility, hold readers in suspense and take ownership of a specific niche with one single tactic, I can see why.

Before I close however, I must mention one thing. Be sure to marry every negative with an even stronger positive. Your goal is not to bad mouth your own product or send customers to your competitions door. It is to convince them that, despite a few drawbacks, your product is the one that will solve their problems and meet their needs.

freelance copywriter, freelance commercial writer

COPYRIGHT(C)2006, Charles Brown. All rights reserved.

Charles Brown is a Dallas, Texas based freelance copywriter who writes web copy, advertisements, newsletter articles and direct mail that turns readers into YOUR customers. Visit his blog at http://dynamiccopywriting.blogspot.com or contact him at 817.715.3852 or **charbrow@gmail.com**.

Christian Sex Toy Guidelines

2008-03-13T00:20:00.000-07:00

A Christian sex toy can actually be allowable within a Christian relationship, if it abides by the following guidelines. Being that a Christian sex toy can be broad and fit many definitions, it is ultimately the couples decision whether to include a particular Christian sex toy into a relationship. But there are very important guidelines Christian couples should follow:

1. Safety. Christian couples should place safety into high regard when choosing to bring in a Christian sex toy. If it poses obvious harm to either individual, then it should not be used, and really should not be considered a Christian sex toy.

2. Must be a generic item. In other words there are some sex toys out there designed to look like another individual, or in some way are attached to another individuals identity, usually someone of fame or celebrity. Obviously this shouldn't be brought into a Christian couples sex practice as it mimicks the action of bringing a third party into the intimate practice of Christian sex, which should be a celebration between two people.

3. Must be an enhancer, not a worshiper. This refers to a Christian sex toy acting as an aid or enhancer in Christian sex, rather than serving as the centerpiece. A Christian couple shouldn't have to rely on an item to practice Christian sex. Rather they should only employ a Christian sex toy to enhance the practice of Christian sex. Worshiping an item and making it the center piece of intimacy should not be practiced.

A Christian sex toy can take many forms and has much variety. Researching the best Christian sex toy can be both fun and exciting, and a couple need only follow the simple guidelines above to ensure their Christian sex toy practice is sound.

For detailed Christian sex toy practices, as well as various Christian sex techniques, see http://www.christian-sex-celebration.blogspot.com Here you can find access to incredible online material which provides Christian sex rules, practices, and sound sex toy ideas. http://www.christian-sex-celebration.blogspot.com

A Brief History of the Baseball Glove

2008-03-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

Baseball has long been praised as America's favorite pastime. Baseball gloves have been used for nearly as long as the baseball game has existed are a very integral part of the sport.

The first baseball gloves were used in the 1870s and are very different from the baseball gloves we use today. Prior to the late 1800's, the sport of baseball was much more rugged than what we are accustomed to today; players were expected to catch or knock the ball with no protection. One can only imagine the injuries sustained from this practice.

Early baseball gloves were fairly simple as compared to today's standards. The basic idea was to create a glove that would pad and protect the players' hands and provide a cushion for catching the ball. Surprisingly, the first gloves were designed so the player could knock the ball to the ground and not necessarily catch it. History's first baseball gloves were made from pieces of leather sewn together to fit over a player's hand. Not nearly as padded, thick or advanced style-wise, early baseball gloves are on display at many sport and baseball museums across the country.

The first players to use baseball gloves were often taunted and teased as being "too soft" or "sissies" because they did not want to catch the ball with their bare hands. It is difficult to understand the resistance and fun-poking of the late 19th century since baseball gloves are a standard item used in modern games. Eventually, however, the use of baseball gloves became more accepted and a safety standard in the sport.

The history of baseball gloves is a colorful one with many advances in comfort and safety. The evolution of baseball gloves has helped to shape the game and many cannot imagine the sport without them.

Baseball Gloves Info provides detailed information about custom and discount baseball gloves, as well as baseball batting gloves, baseball glove reviews, and advice on how to break in baseball gloves. Baseball Gloves Info is the sister site of Baseball Bats Web.

Pregnancy Photos

2008-03-12T05:35:00.000-07:00

During my pregancy I didn't really have the desire to have my pregnancy-photos taken, I really wish I would have made more time to get them done.

If you're anything like me, you're usually the one holding the camera. Make sure to give the camera to hubbie so he can get the shots you can't.

Here is what I believe are the best pregnancy-photos that you need to have done. Ok, some may sound a little strange, but believe me you will love looking back on even the silly ones!

Read my list of must have pictures!

Photo #1 Of course the day you found out you were pregnant! There are lots of women who keep the actual pregnancy test... why not take a picture of it and that can go into your pregnancy album?

Photo #2 If you have children.... take a picture of their reaction to the news.

Photo #3 Don't forget the picture of the surprised daddy!

Photo #4 Get hubbie to take a picture of you calling your family & friends. If you're having a dinner party to announce the wonderful news, be sure to click away that night.

Photo #5 Get a picture of yourself infront of the doctor's office on your first visit, even get one with your doctor.

Photo #6 The next time I would bring the camera is when you get to hear the heartbeat for the first time. What a moment to capture! That's the best moment there is for a mom to be.

Photo #7 Time for some mugshots! Get a nice front shot of yourself, then turn to your side for a profile shot. Do this every month as your pregnancy progresses. Easy to do.

Photo #8 Do you know a friend who can take some pictures of you and your husband? Get some nice shots of your husband with his head on your tummy....putting the music to your tummy.... kissing your tummy.... I could go on and on. Very cute and loving pictures.

Photo #9 Repeat Photo #8, but insert your older children.

Photo #10 Did your older children make something for your baby? Take pictures of them with their proud creations.

Photo #11 Get at least one picture of your doctor measure your belly. This is something that us women do every month with the doctor and it's so comforting that the baby is growing properly.

Photo #12 Waiting around for an ultrasound? Bring the camera, get a picture of you infront of the hospital. You know they will make you drink a ton of water, so you're doing the dance anyhow. Bring the camera to keep yourself busy. If there's no one there with you......you're in your gown right? Get a nice shot of those swollen feet.

Have fun with your pregnancy-photos! Create your pregnancy album during pregnancy is alot of fun. :)

Vera Raposo has been scrapbooking since her oldest child was 5. With tons of scrapbooking tips and ideas, Vera is now sharing some of her best scrapbooking ideas for your new baby in her newsletter http://www.baby-scrapbooking.com.

Acne Rosacea Cause - Learn The Truth About The Cause Of Acne Rosacea

2008-03-12T00:51:00.000-07:00

Acne rosacea is one of the most common dermatological conditions that affects millions of people worldwide. What causes acne rosacea? The truth may surprise you. This article will reveal the truth about the cause of acne rosacea.

Acne does not discriminate. Acne occurs in people worldwide, no matter their race, age or gender. That being said, there are still many questions being asked about the cause for acne rosacea. Extensive research has revealed numerous causes of acne rosacea.Hormones are a common cause of acne rosacea. Research has established that one of the causes of acne rosacea is the activation of the hormones androgens.

During teenage years androgens are activated. This results in the production of oil in the skin. When this occurs a person's skin starts to become clogged with oil and dirt and unfortunately pimples and blackheads break out as a result.Other than this cause for acne rosacea another common cause is the menstrual cycle in women.

Another factor is when a woman actually starts to take a birth control pill and also when she stops taking one. The good news is that nowadays there are actually some birth control pills that are highly recommended for treating acne.

There are three acne scar classifications. These classifications include rolling, boxcar and ice pick. As the name suggest, ice pick acne scars are sharp and very thin. The skin actually takes on the unattractive appearance of looking like it has been sliced with a knife. Ice pick acne scars are very deep scars and extent into the deeper layers of the skin.

The next classification of acne scars is boxcar acne scars. These differ from ice pick scars as they are round pits. This type of acne scar has been shown to get good results from laser resurfacing and dermabrasion procedures.

The final classification of acne scars are rolling acne scars. These type of acne scars are usually as a result of folds in the skin and can usually be treated by breaking up the bands that create the skin fold in the first place. These acne scars are frequently treated by an incision in the skin

Go to http://www.be-acne-free-in-3-days.com/ to learn how a ten year chronic acne sufferer cured his acne condition in just 3 days and guarantees that he can do the same for you too!

There are a number of interesting causes of acne rosacea, one of these being stress. The fact of the matter is that any stress on a person can result potentially in inflammation of the skin. Stress not only may trigger acne rosacea but it can be a very important factor for any skin conditions developing in the first place.

Additionally, some acne studies have come to the conclusion that another reason why acne rosacea comes to the surface is as a result of a food allergy which triggers an acne outbreak. Another cause of acne rosacea is genetic and hereditary factors. Many dermatologist and researches have determined that if your family members have had acne during their life then it is highly likely that all members of the family are prone to acne outbreaks.

If acne outbreaks are hereditary there is little you can do to prevent an outbreak, however, there is quite a lot that can be done to control acne.Additionally, there are a number of environmental causes of acne rosacea including high humidity. Research has established that high humid conditions can cause the skin to swell and lead to acne outbreaks.

Furthermore, the beauty industry may be to blame for the cause of some acne rosacea occurring in individuals. Certain beauty products like foundations, cleansers and moisturizers contain ingredients that could trigger acne in some people. If in doubt you beauty products for sensitive skin.

There are a number of forms of major acne treatments that have been tested and proven to actually work in getting rid of acne. One of the most recommended acne treatments is using antibiotics to directly kill the bacteria breeding in the skin. One of these antibiotics is tetracyclines. Another form of antibiotic is benzoyl peroxide which is mainly applied directly to acne. Of course these acne treatments will not probably work straight away and acne sufferers will usually need to continue these antibiotics for an extended period of time.

An amusing search online for potential causes of acne rosacea include masturbation. I can wholeheartedly state that no research study I have located has been able to find any link with acne rosacea and masturbation. A quick tip for not making your acne worse is to never rub, squeeze or pick any pimples as inevitably that could cause a severe outbreak of acne.

Check out the website below to learn how to cure your acne rosacea in just 3 days.

Copyright 2007. Discover how a ten year acne sufferer cured his acne condition in just 3 days the natural way and saved himself from further scarring and stopped wasting his money on expensive medications and acne products. Get all these acne secrets and more at http://www.be-acne-free-in-3-days.com

DHT Blockers, An Effective Hair Loss Treatment?

2008-03-11T22:28:00.000-07:00

In order to understand a DHT blocker, you must first familiarize yourself with this substance that greatly contributes to facial and body hair growth. DHT is associated with the hormone testosterone, which is found in the prostate gland, adrenal glands, and hair follicles. Overall, DHT is a rather important substance that affects male baldness caused by changes in hormone levels. In some of the most popular methods of treating hair loss, DHT often serves as a vital focus.

DHT is created when an enzyme called 5 alpha-reductase turns testosterone into DHT, which is often the main cause of thinning hair and receding hairlines in men. Some of the products of today contain the proper blend of herbs and minerals, which works with 5 alpha-reductase to create DHT blockers. When supplements and other products offer the proper ingredients in just the right amount, the damaging effects of DHT are blocked. Men between the ages of 18 and 40 are also known to experience a regrowth of lost hair as a result.

Hair Loss Treatments Involving DHT

While a variety of hair loss remedies involve anti-inflammatory motives that prevent redness and itching (known to worsen hair loss) or contain growth stimulants, there are plenty of treatment options that involve DHT. Some methods rely on antiandrogens, which affects the combination (or binding) of DHT with androgen receptors. Another approach includes DHT inhibitors, which are designed to create an acceptable balance between shedding hair and regrowth by controlling the production of DHT. Through limiting DHT levels, the hair loss attributed to this substance is lessened.

DHT Blocker Products

Numerous hair loss prevention and treatment products are found on the market, but careful judgment and research is needed to select the most effective options on an individual basis. Below you will find a few DHT blocker products (including shampoos, supplements, and tablets) that have gained acclaim for their effectiveness and usefulness:

1) Avacor

With a regrowth formula and DHT blockers, many have received success in their male pattern hair loss, which accounts for the most cases of hair loss in the U.S. With a solidified reputation since 1999, Avacor costs about an average of $240 for a 3-month supply for product that offers options, such as detoxifying shampoos, hair thickening serums, thickening shampoos, and volumizing conditioners.

2) Procerin

With satisfaction in overall results and price, Procerin is seen as one of the leaders in herbal products that promotes effective hair loss treatment. With an average price of $70 for a 3-month supply, the best outcome has been seen in younger men between the ages of 18 and 35. With all-natural herbal, vitamin and mineral DHT blockers, Procerin tablets are taken once in the morning and once before bedtime.

3) NuHair DHT Blocker Hair Regrowth Tablets

As a powerful DHT blocker, a time-released formula is found in the tablets that aim to prevent hair loss and thinning hair while supporting a nutritional method. This all-natural approach aims to provide nourishment for the scalp and hair, while promoting hair regrowth.

4) CellStim-H Shampoo

With an herbal hair and scalp cleanser approach, both men and women may find results in the DHT blocker shampoo that also works as a detoxifier. Through the removal of surface residue in hair follicles, the natural DHT blockers in CellStim-H Shampoo are also considered an effective approach in the promotion of hair regrowth.

Another great DHT blocker Shampoo is the Nisim DHT Shampoo To find out more about this effective shampoo visit http://hairproducts.allinfonet.com/

5 Ways A Reader Can Respond To Your Article

2008-03-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

When reading your article a reader can get warmed up and react on your article in several different ways. A responsive reader will want to:

1) Visit your website link in the resource box

This is probably the most common response people seem to go to, even if it is the wrong one. People are so fixated with wanting their readers to go to their websites and buy straight away.

Tell me something, how many strangers on the internet have you bought something from because they just told you a great story? None right?

You have to preheat (or presell your readers) the oven before you can ask for their credit card details.

Sending your readers to your website will usually result in a lower sales percentage straight off the bat. That is of course if you are selling them anything at all.

If you were selling them something, the best bet would be to send them straight to your newsletter signup link in your resource box.

But if you are sure you want to send them to your website, the best way to do that is to tell your readers (in your article) that if you go to your website (in your resource box), there is a free gift (of value) they can get, just by visiting your site.

Make sure if you do this, it's not a blatant plug for a product and the gift is of real value, or very few publishers will publish your article, and fewer readers will respond to you in the future. No one likes being sold straight off the bat, and by giving them a free gift, or getting them to give you their email address some way is the best way to go.

2) Visit your affiliate link

This one is quite tricky.

For starters, some publishers don't allow you to put affiliate program links in your article at all, and if you do, they have to be completely in context and it must be one brilliant article, but that's not a problem.

You can of course put an affiliate link in your resource box, which would be allowed straight away.

3) Subscribe to your mailing list.

This is one of the better options. Why, because when they sign up for your mailing list, they are giving you permission to contact them via email on a regular basis.

It would be very hard in your article to announce your mailing list in context of the article, as it would come off as a blatant plug, so the best bet would be to include your subscribe email address in your resource box.

Send them to a splash page where you can capture their email address. Or let your readers to send a blank email to your autoresponder/mailing list email address and subscribe from there. Give them a free gift, something of value.

4) Refer your article to others

If you want your readers to refer your articles to other people, here is what you do.

(This is a good idea if you have affiliate links in your article)

You send them to a website, with a refer a friend script. This website also has your previous articles on there as well in an easy to use site.

You see how many possibilities there are.

By giving them something in return with value, like a free 5-day course, you get them to refer your article/website to their friends.

5) Contact you personally

If you want people to contact you personally, don't make them dig through a website to find your contact details. At the very least, put your email address in your resource box, if not your business phone number.

Chris Geldof invites you to submit your best articles to the Free Articles directory. When you submit your articles to ArticleCube.com, ezine publishers will reprint your articles with your content and give lots of traffic to help you increase your sales. To submit your article, setup a free account today: ArticleCube

Marketing Your Business Online

2008-03-11T05:31:00.000-07:00

How can a business that is already successful in reaching their local market extend their marketing reach online? The good news is that the traditional offline marketing that has always worked so well will still work at least as effectively to promote your online presence. The other side of the coin is that to promote your business online, the old traditions need some updating to keep up with online marketing best practices.

Any business should already have a marketing plan and objectives from their offline initiatives, so let's jump straight into the technology aspects of online marketing. I generally look at the following things first, because they can be done at very low or no initial cost, and also because subsequent specialist marketing won't be as successful without these things in place. Of course there is a huge amount more to online marketing, the extent of which could easily be justified as a full-time university course. This is the pre-school notes, to help get your site to a starting point on a low budget if you can't quite afford to be calling in the big guns to market your site for you professionally just yet.

1. Site optimization This is always the place to start, because the effectiveness of everything which follows is often dependent on this being done up front. When I say this, I include great content and intuitive navigation as the basis for everything. Only once your site has been optimized for intelligent visitors should you tweak it for search engines, but never at the expense of the former.

Search engines look at things like keyword density and how specifically a page matches a specific search term. Of course this is extremely over simplistic, but nevertheless a worthwhile starting point. By identifying 10-20 key terms you would like search engines to pick up on, and creating specialised pages with relevant information which utilises those terms in the right way, you will start getting much better results once your site has been indexed.

You will find that it is best to use specialised keyword phrases, for example "precision-engineered bolts" is likely to get better placement than a generic term like "engineering parts". You should also work to create a single page for every key phrase you want picked up on, and include the key phrase in the title, meta tags and use all the words in the body of the page at a high density relative to other words. You should also preferably include the key phrase in the page title, as well as the URL of the page, for example, "http://www.mysite.com/precision_engineered_bolts/". Each page should use a different title, specifically based on the key phrase utilised in that page's content.

Your site should really be developed using XHTML and CSS these days, table-based design has numerous technical problems associated with it, and it results in a lower keyword density than the current standards.

Ideally you should use a content management system which incorporates and facilitates all of the above quickly and effortlessly. This will allow you to manage your own content optimization, with a bit of trial-and-error.

2. Linking and indexing The next step is to get search engines to start to notice and index your site. Google, for example, won't even look at your site until it has been linked to by at least one other indexed site. Paid inclusion (paying the search engines to index your site on a priority schedule) can be appropriate at this phase if you need to urgently accelerate this process, however it is not always necessary.

Especially useful at this stage can be participating in forums serving your primary target market. This has the dual benefit of creating awareness of your business within communities you would like to reach, and at the same time can help create incoming links to your site, something that search engines pay particular attention to. Ensure that your site details are included as a link in the footer of your posts. Never use a forum to spam members or submit unsolicited advertising posts -- that just has the opposite effect of destroying your business' credibility. Some forums have a separate advertising section in which it may be appropriate to professionally post information about your services and products. Always make sure that your presence represents a valuable contribution to the community. Stay on topic and be professional, helpful and constructive.

Search engines take many factors into consideration when ranking a site. New sites, for example, don't initially fare well, however you will find they will allocate some credibility weighting to you the longer your site is up and running. The biggest factor though, external to the site itself, is the number of inbound (preferably non-reciprocal) links from other sites, and the context and wording of the referring link, as well as the ranking of the referring page, and referring site. The popularity of those sites plays a big role, as well as how high up in the site's own hierarchy the link is. By way of example, a link from www.news.com.au counts for much more than a link from a very deeply embedded page like www.somesitesomewhere.com/subdirectory/theattic/someoldforgottenpage .

3. Implement online marketing partnerships with high-profile online businesses This is where you can really benefit if implemented successfully. When I was previously running the e-commerce business unit for a large company, rather than pay high-traffic websites to advertise on their sites, which can be very much untargeted, we offered them a percentage of sales. In other words, we provided them with the banners to promote the service, and implemented simple tracking of where our visitors were coming from, and then paid a percentage of the total revenue to the referrer. This resulted in very low marketing costs to us, and the referring sites started placing more and more emphasis on their side to ensure that we got top placement whenever they were low on paid inventory.

Another effective medium-term strategy is to provide content of value to sites which serve your target market. They benefit from your topical content, you benefit from the exposure and links.

4. Dabble in paid keyword advertising Only at this point should you actually be starting to pay for online advertising. These forms of advertising, however, allow you to specifically target certain people, which means you get a much better return on investment than simply advertising to everyone. This can take some trial and error to find what works best, but the amount you pay should be less than the amount of business you generate, and should normally include full measurement and reports on a reasonably regular basis, preferably online.

For this purpose, I often suggest starting with Google. They are by far the most popular search engine globally, they have a very good reputation, provide reporting online, and are probably the most likely to produce results initially. Yahoo and MSN also have excellent paid link systems, and they keep getting better all the time. The latest offerings from all three are now also starting to allow targeting to specific demographics, a trend that is likely to become the preferred way to target online audiences once the capabilities for this type of targeting matures.

5. Involve an internet marketing specialist At this point, you should be starting to see some results, and be in a good position to ask some intelligent questions. Preferably deal only with a business that has a good reputation (ask for client contact details so you can find out how effective they are), and has preferably has been around for at least a few years. They should also provide very detailed reports (ask for examples of these up front), and be able to explain in detail how they go about promoting your site, on which sites they do so, the number of views and clickthroughs per site per day, and how effective each promotion was relative to the next. They should also meet with you at least once a month to review successes and failures and involve you in the decision-making process of where next to promote your business. At least monthly, you should be in a position to evaluate your cost per sale for various promotions, and to change your focus accordingly.

Especially be wary of businesses who claim unrealistically quick results, or base their business mainly only on search engine submission, or use deceptive practices to try and "trick" search engines into ranking you higher. These usually at best produce no value, and can in some cases lead to your site being removed or ranked very low by search engines.

David Malan is an internet and e-commerce expert with over ten years experience in designing and developing enterprise grade online solutions for business.

He owns and runs RealmSurfer Consulting, based in Perth, Western Australia.

Website: Web Design Perth About: About RealmSurfer Web Design Perth

Brazilian Men's National Soccer Team Takes on a New Complexion

2008-03-10T22:36:00.000-07:00

Brazilian dominance in soccer takes a new complexion. There used to be a time when the Brazilian men's national soccer team were of average size and build. They were small (shorter), fast and skillful. Diminutive in stature but this did not apply to their technical and tactical abilities.

The Brazilian men's national soccer team might appear to line up in some formal positional formation and set up. Once the game starts it is an all positions for everybody on the team. They seem to play a 1 (goalkeeper) -10 (field) as all the players are in constant motion and are able to play off of each other at any time. The team members do however have certain defensive responsibilities and are accountable for their respective areas.

They truely understand "the game" and are ready to be spontaneous as well as volatile.

The Brazilian team seems to make the opponents play catch up and defensively throughout most of the contest.

A goal scoring opportunity can come from any where and any one on the field and at any time.

The only thing that you can predict is that the goalkeeper will not leave the 18 yard box to act as a forward and score some goals.

Ronaldinho has just acquired his second FIFA international player of the year award in a row. Does he deserve it? Most definitely.
He is a pleasure to observe as he sets up most of his team mates to lead his current team FC Barcelona to the top of the Spanish "La Liga".

Now add the goalkeeper Dida who has been a major part of his team's successes, in the back and Adriano up front who has seemed to be totally unstoppable goal scoring machine on the forward line for the Italian "Serie A", Roberto Carlos on the left where he still has a command on the free kicks, and Ronaldo the task master who often and still shows flashes of brilliance in the mix and you have a fortress of power and abilities few can match.

I think the ball got rolling with the the introduction of Junior Biano as a defenseman in 1998. With the exception of France his presence was a dominant deterant for other teams.
The latest big man to join him is Lucio

Brazil found mass to be a compliment to all their other strengths. It would appear that they have continued to build from there. The average weight of their national team has increased without diminishing their agility and manouverability. Although not a necessity, muscle mass has been a factor in other team sports. This might be true in modern Futbol as speed has become an over-riding factor to the game in the last 15 years. Most of the elite players are also playing in the Italian and Spanish premier leagues and on similar if not the same teams. They are learning from each other by being rivals and combats as well as compatriots.

Here are the possible candidates for the next world cup roster for Brazil.

Goalkeepers:

DIDA,
JLIO CSAR

Defenders:

CAFU,
CICINHO,
EDMLSON,
GILBERTO Melo,
JUAN,
LCIO,
ROBERTO CARLOS da Silva,
Jos Vtor ROQUE JNIOR

Midfielders:

EMERSON Ferreira,
GILBERTO Silva,
JUNINHO Pernambucano,
KAKA',
RENATO,
Z ROBERTO,

Forwards:

ADRIANO,
Jlio BAPTISTA,
Ricardo OLIVEIRA,
ROBINHO,
RONALDO,
RONALDINHO Gacho,

Very impressive roster as was the one in 1998.

A team can only be as good as it is a team and is coached as a team.
A team can only be good if all the members play for the team and with the team.

It does NOT matter how many stars you have and how big the egos or the payroll is either.

Win as a team and lose as a team. Play as individuals and the team will lose. I say this not because outstanding players could change the outcome of games, but because other teams and players are more sophisticated and more knowledgable now than ever before. The opposition can read this and contain the key players rendering the rest of the team less potent.

Steve September of On The Ball Soccer Training has been involved in soccer for over forty years and on three continents.
As a player, player coach and high performance coach Steve wants to share the knowledge and experiences with all people involved in all levels of the soccer scene. Delve into more of the philosophy and information at; http://www.soccertrainingskills.com/SouthAmericanSoccer.html

Use the "Reply All" Function in Email Judiciously

2008-03-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Type email etiquette into the search bar of any popular search engine and youll get over one million hits. Because email is used so broadly, it poses certain problems for the professional who is attempting to communicate well. Any of those over one million hits will tell you the benefits of using email to conduct your business because it is a fast and efficient form of communicating. However, email is often the least preferred method of communicating by many readers.

With that in mind, I want to address one of the many options of emailthe Reply All function. Using this function carefully will help you protect and enhance your professional credibility and prevent you from alienating your readersespecially those who dont like email to begin with.

Im a member of many online groups, and frequently a groups leader will send an email to the entire group giving out information or delivering a point of instruction. Far too frequently, recipients of this group message will respond to the sender by hitting the Reply All function. The problem with that is all their will do, got it, and thanks responses end up in my Inbox becoming clutter I have to sort through and delete.

Deliberate Purpose

The Reply All function should be reserved for when all members of the recipient list need the information being sent. Let me say that again, reserve the Reply All for when ALL members need the responders answer. In how many cases do you need to know that one of the recipients said okay? Not often. Instead, in the interest of time, efficiency, and professionalism this type of response should be sent only to the person who generates the original email.

Youve read in my other articles that poor communication is the Number One problem in business. Hitting Reply All as a matter of habit and not as a carefully chosen option is poor communication because it clutters our inboxes with information we dont need. If we consider that every Reply All is a piece of paper on our desks, would we want all those responses? Absolutely not. Wed be buried in paper!

Certainly, Reply All has its uses. In a collaborative project where all members of the team need to be kept apprised of the goings-on of team members, using Reply All is the right thing to do. This is especially important if the team works remotely or when members of the team work on opposite shifts or dont see one another frequently. Then using Reply All is good communication because it keeps the lines of communication open and moving. But again, I caution judicious use of the Reply All function.

Real-Life Consequences

We have another really good reason to use the Reply All function judiciously and that has to do with the functioning of a unit as a team. Using Reply All well can increase a teams ability to function by keeping communication open, thereby helping the company reach its goals. However, using Reply All can also be used as a weapon and become destructive to a team relationship. Let me tell you a story to help you understand this.

Ive been working with an organization that has had quite a bit of internal strife for various reasons. In an effort to be more supportive, the president of the organization sent a complimentary email about one staffers efforts to her entire staff. Nice email. Good job of communicating how staff is making the organization better. This was a responsive, proactive thing to do on the part of the president. Heres what happened next: another of the presidents staff members hit Reply All and said Dont forget that Jane did her part, too.

To the casual observer this exchange may not seem to be a big deal. But while that message might seem innocuous, it conveys testiness as well. The staffers reply was designed not only to acknowledge Jane but to show the rest of the staff that the president didnt really know what was going on in the organization. The fact that the staffer sent the Reply All to acknowledge Jane had a subversive intent, and that was to expose the failings of the president. The president then scrambled to give Jane the proper acknowledgement and sent another message via Reply All acknowledging Janes contribution. The result: the president was put on the defensive in front of her entire staff. Not a good position for a leader to be in.

Different Results

Could this situation have been handled better? Sure. The staffer should simply have replied, called, or spoken to the president directly to remind her of Janes efforts. Doing so would have shown respect to the president and allowed the president an opportunity to revise the original message to give Jane proper credit without being put in a defensive position.

Using the Reply All option may be one of those things people do to make their jobs easier, but they do it without considering the potential negative effects on the organization and workers involved. My advice: be cautious. Use Reply All only when all those people in the recipient list need the information you have and when they need it from you. Otherwise, respond only to the initiator of the message and let them do their jobs better.

About the Author:

Dr. Tracy Peterson Turner works with organizations that want to turn their managers into leaders and with leaders who want to get their messages heard. She is an expert in both written and verbal communication and conducts presentations and workshops to help individuals and corporations meet their communication goals.

Visit Tracy on the web at http://www.Mgr-Impact.com. Email her at Tracy@Mgr-Impact.com

188+ Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth 4 Screenwriters) - Inner Cave and Inner Challenge

2008-03-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

FORWARD

The 188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (see URL below) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE 188 STAGE HERO'S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Tells you what to write. For example, at a certain stage of the story, the focus should be on the Call to Adventure and the micro elements within.

ABRIDGED TIPS, EXCERPTS AND EXAMPLES:

(simply go to http://www.heros-journey.info/ for full details)

*****Inner Cave / Inner Challenge*****

It is the Inner Cave of the First Threshold where the Inner Challenge is made explicit. In Straw Dogs (1971), Amy is childish, flirty and horny in the car.

*****Blood and Transmogrification*****

The progression of the Transmogrification - the physical change - is often symbolised by the appearance of blood. In Straw Dogs (1971), David shoots the bird...the bloood seeps out and onto his clothes.

Learn more

WRITE THAT SCREENPLAY!

The Complete 188 stage Heros Journey and other story structure templates can be found at http://www.screenplay-structure.com/ or http://www.herostransformation.com/

You can also receive a regular, free newsletter by entering your email address at this site.

You are free to reproduce this article as long as no changes are made, the author's name is retained and the link to our site URL remains active.

**********************************

Kal Bishop, MBA

How to Make Penis Bigger - Natural Methods to Enlarge Your Penis

2008-03-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Penis enlargement is a popular topic that is ever increasing. Thousands of men feel inadequate when it comes to penis size, and often try many methods, devices, pills, and exercises in the hope of enlarging their penis.

For the majority of men the idea of gaining an increase in girth size is the most important part of penis enlargement, as it can compliment length gain and adds greater sexual pleasure for both men and women. The fact is though that nearly all men do not know how to make penis bigger.

Whereas there are many methods to try to enlarge the penis, from stretchers to pumps, to pills, to exercises, the best results for 99% of men will come from a combination of using proven exercises and a clinically proven stretching device. Another method that can also help when used with these two methods is Jelqing.

Achieving penis enlargement isn't an overnight thing, despite what you may read by some company offering a miracle penis enlargement pill or penis pump. However, for those that wonder whether they can actually achieve a larger penis the answer is yes, as long as you stick to the exercises and use a traction device from a medically backed system. There is no doubt in this, but it is important to not jump from one "how to make penis bigger in 1 week" scam program to the next.

As soon as you've decided you want a bigger penis you have to dedicate yourself to doing the exercises and using the traction device. Stick to the system and you will achieve considerable increases in penis length and girth.

Penis enlargement can not only improve your confidence in the bedroom and when around women, but it can also help boost self esteem in day-to-day life. If you constantly think that you want to improve your confidence, naturally enlarge penis size, and help control premature ejaculations then you owe it to yourself to try a proven system, which I will show you later on.

Penis enlargement is a subject that comes with a lot of skepticism because of the many scams that surround male enhancement, and some of the devices do seem a little far fetched (penis pumps for example). Traction devices though are safe and do work, although not all will provide an increase in girth. This is why it is important to choose a superior device that will provide returns in both penis length and girth.

For the best penis enlargement program available to increase penis length, girth, improve confidence, control premature ejaculation, and correct penile curvatures, use the clinically proven and medically backed system at Enlarge Penis Size.

Ten Tips For Beating Depression

2008-03-09T20:52:00.000-07:00

I heard about a woman who was suffering from depression, so her concerned husband took her to a psychiatrist. The doctor listened to the couple talk about their relationship, and then he said, "The treatment I prescribe is really quite simple." With that, he went over to the man's wife, gathered her up in his arms, and gave her a big kiss. He then stepped back and looked at the woman's glowing face and broad smile. Turning to the woman's husband, he said, "See! That's all she needs to put new life back into her." Expressionless, the husband said, "If you say so, Doc, I can bring her in on Tuesdays and Thursdays."

Okay, that's not how to treat depression, but I have a few other suggestions that make more sense. As a result of trial and error, over the course of thirty years, I've found ten blues battling strategies that often help me. These are not quick fixes, and this list is not exhaustive. It is also not a "must do" list.

When you're depressed, the last thing you need is a list of expectations to live up to. Don't stress about forcing yourself to accomplish all these things. They're not items to be checked off a list each day. The only one that is crucial is number one. After that, you can experiment with the others as you feel able to.

1) Get the Facts and Get Help.

Web sites and books on depression abound. Find them and do some research. You need to know what you're dealing with. Learn all you can about depression, so you can make educated decisions about your own health, learn how others cope, and find what medical treatment is available. Many books have self tests to help you determine whether you are experiencing clinical depression or temporary sadness in reaction to an event. In addition to reading everything you can get your hands on, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is seek medical help right away. Depression is much too complicated for you to solve on your own. Clinical depression is a serious medical condition that is very complicated to treat. Often it is a physical problem that requires long term medication. In my own experience, it's taken years of medication, counseling, and practicing various self help methods to slowly emerge from it, and it's still a daily battle.

Many people suffer needlessly from depression because they won't consult a doctor. If you're waiting for God to heal you, consider this: God gives scientists intelligence, which they often use to create helpful medicines; and He gives doctors wisdom to treat illnesses. Wise doctors and modern medicines are gifts from God and vehicles through which He often heals. Doctors can help you determine whether what you feel is truly depression, or if you are just reacting normally to a sad life situation.

If you've experienced depression, you already know it is not an illness you can "snap out of," no matter what others may tell you. It's not something to be ashamed of either. Depression can be a serious physical illness caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals or other factors. Like any serious medical condition, depression needs to be treated. Without the proper treatment, none of my suggested coping strategies will do any good.

2) Get Focused.

Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness pervade the life of a depressed person. The opposite of depression is a hopeful attitude. Focusing on hope and developing a hopeful heart is a must. It can be accomplished in a couple ways. One way is to search the Bible for the numerous Scriptures that tell how God has helped those who felt hopeless. It's helpful to memorize verses like these: Hebrews 4:15 (For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we areyet was without sin.); 2 Corinthians 4:8 & 9 (All-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.); Matthew 6:34 (Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.); Isaiah 41:10 (Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.); and John 14:27 (Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.).

The story of Job and the book of Psalms are the most worn pages in my Bible. While at my lowest, I've read and re-read them more times than I can count. My fridge and the mirrors in my house are covered with sticky notes reminding me of how God intervenes in the lives of His people.

Another way to focus on hope is by practicing positive self talk. This simply means telling yourself good things. I made a list for myself of positive affirmations like "God cares and understands my pain. God values me. God is giving me strength. I am made in God's image. I can choose my attitude. I choose not to put myself down. I'm a worthwhile person. I have a purpose. I enjoy life. I choose to be happy and I am competent." If you struggle with depression, I think you'll find it helpful to write down as many of these affirmations as you can think of and read them every day. Even if they're not currently true or you don't really believe them, it's okay. Say them to yourself anyway. Your mind will come to believe what you tell it, so tell it you are already the type of person you want to become. Be sure to remind yourself often that God is with you and He is pouring his strength on you. "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. ...For You are the God of my strength..." (Psalm 42:5 and 43:2 NKJV)

2 Corinthians 4:18 says we need to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Focusing on positive, heavenly things rather than earthly things will keep the feelings of hopelessness at bay.

3) Get Friendly.

Fellowship with other people is a mood lifter. Being alone is the worst thing you can do when you're depressed. Unfortunately, it's usually the very thing I want most. Depression grows best in isolation. I find it very difficult to get out and socialize when I'm depressed, but if I push myself to do it, I'm almost always glad later. Some ideas for socializing include joining a club, taking a class, inviting someone to meet you for lunch, or visiting a nursing home to chat with the residents there. It especially helps me to be with friends who enjoy the same hobbies I do. Shopping, watching movies, and rubber stamping are some of the things I enjoy doing alone, but they're twice as much fun when I do them with friends.

4) Get Giggling.

I collect cartoons and funny newspaper columns. I visit humor web sites online, watch funny movies, and read funny books. Best of all is laughing with friends. One of the reasons I enjoy my grandson so much is because he makes me laugh. I can act goofy with him and let go of my inhibitions. We dance and sing and make up silly rhymes. I have photographs of us wearing funny glasses with big black mustaches. I laugh every time I look at those. Laughing affects brain chemicals. It releases endorphins, which make you feel good. Chocolate does the same thing, but a good laugh is less fattening.

A friend of mine, who had a very frustrating job, told me that one day she was inspired by someone who had a huge, bright smile. She decided to emulate that woman and smile at everyone she encountered. Right away, she realized that smiling was addictive. It seemed to make the time pass more quickly and she found herself less frustrated and more at peace. She told me, "It sounds corny, but it really works!"

Paul wrote, "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4 NKJV) I've heard that a person can act her way into feeling better. Act happy, act glad, and it helps you to feel happy and glad. Paul exhibited this truth in his own life. Acts 16 tells how Paul and Silas were attacked, beaten, locked in stocks, and thrown into solitary confinement. Yet, at midnight, what were they doing? Feeling sorry for themselves? Asking God, "Why?" Moaning and complaining like I do? No, they were singing! Sure they were suffering, but they knew they were children of God. Paul may have even been remembering his personal encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. (Acts 22:10) They were praising God because they had been rescued from their sins, filled by the Holy Spirit, and added to God's family. No jailer could take that away. That was worth being grateful for, no matter what else happened to them. Even if they were to be killed, it would only send them to heaven. So why should they fear? That's some awesome faith, isn't it?

5) Get Rhythm.

When I feel a case of the gloomies descending, that is not the time to play melancholy music. Positive upbeat tunes are in order -- the sort of music you might hear at a parade or a circus. Music gets your toes tapping and your blood flowing. It makes you want to sing. Singing and dancing sends a message to your brain that you're happy. Your brain is an actualizer. Whatever it "thinks" is true, it works to bring about. This is why positive thinking works. You tell yourself, "I'm happy" often enough and your brain accepts it as fact. It actualizes that truth, making it happen. I've found that when depression takes hold of me, I tend to ruminate on negative thoughts. Listening to good, Christian music with positive lyrics helps to pour good things into my brain and crowd those negative things out. There's a list of good things to ponder in the fourth chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippian church. It says to think about whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, noble, right, or admirable. Philippians 4:8 says, "If anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things." Christian music helps me accomplish this.

6) Get Busy

We all need to feel like we're involved in something significant. We need to participate in something outside ourselves. You might consider volunteering at a local women's shelter or food pantry. I've enjoyed both and discovered that when I stay busy helping others and concentrating on their problems, I get a break from focusing on my own troubles. This is how HUGS and HOPE began. It started with a small effort to make a difference for one family and it grew. I've learned that joy boomerangs. When you give it away, it comes back to you. Helping others gives you the heart-warming satisfaction of knowing you are making a difference in the world. That will elevate your mood as well as your self esteem.

7) Get Physical

This is two-fold. Physical exercise is good for us, but physical contact is equally important. Our bodies need to move to be healthy, and going for a walk is the easiest exercise for me to do when I'm depressed. It doesn't require as much energy and motivation as other activities. Breathing the fresh air and looking at the beauty of nature can be helpful, and taking my dog along is even better. Just watching his ears flop as he bounces down the road in front of me often brings a smile to my face.

Exercise affects brain chemicals, and the healing touch of physical closeness does too. If you're depressed, hug somebody - anybody, everybody! A hug is good medicine. It reduces stress and tension and it boosts your immunity to illness. Hugs raise self esteem and lower blood pressure. They feel good and make people happy. And they're free! Hugs are the universal language that communicates love and acceptance. They're healthy for the "hugger" as well as the "hugee."

8) Get Quiet

I need to lean heavily on God's word and spend time with Him. When I pray, I talk things over with God. When I read the Bible and meditate on it, I hear Him speak to me and I contemplate what He says. I've found this to be one of the best anti-depressants there is. However, I need to add a word of caution here. Too much solitude can worsen depression. Isolating yourself and avoiding people can make depression grow. Don't use meditation time as an excuse to avoid human contact. Time with God is of the utmost importance, but balance between quiet time alone and time spent with others is essential.

9) Get Forgiveness And Give it Too!

I've read that many psychiatrists agree that depression is guilt or anger turned inward. David is an example of someone whose guilt led to depression. After committing adultery, he wrote, "When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was turned into the drought of summer." (Psalm 32:3-4)

Sin makes you feel bad, but when you receive God's forgiveness, your guilt is removed; and often depression is removed too.

Depression can sometimes be caused from the need to forgive someone else or yourself (whomever is making you angry). Grudges cause feelings of frustration, which aggravate the hopeless feelings of depression. When we forgive, we let go of past hurts and give up bitterness. Then depression has no negativity on which to feed. If you free yourself from feelings of hate and open yourself up to feelings of love, you may feel as if the depression is physically lifting off your shoulders.

My friend Nance went through a difficult divorce, which left her bitter about the past, anxious about the future, and miserable in general. She harbored a lot of grudges and guilt, and she worried constantly. She felt the need to control everything in her life, yet she knew she couldn't. After attending a women's retreat, Nance realized what her negativity was doing to her.She released her worries, fears, anger, and resentments at the foot of the cross. Then she felt a renewal in her heart. She was happy and at peace.

When she was dying, Nance told me that the most difficult thing she'd ever had to do was forgive both her ex-husband and herself -- for past mistakes. She said forgiving was even harder than dying!

Forgiveness isn't a simple one time event. It's a process that often takes time (sometimes years), but it's an important step to healing.

Jesus taught forgiveness when he said we'd be forgiven in the same way we forgive others, and when he told Peter we should forgive, not seven times, but seventy times seven. Of course, Jesus also lived forgiveness. While hanging on the cross, he looked at his torturers and said, "Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

10) Get Thankful.
When I'm depressed, I need to make a conscious effort to count my blessings. An attitude of hopelessness and discontent has a hard time competing with an attitude of gratitude. 1 Thessalonians 5:28 says, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." It's important to remember that depression is not fatal and it doesn't last forever. You WILL survive! Remind yourself that this cloud of despair will pass eventually. It may seem like there's no light at the end of the tunnel, but trust that there is; and be thankful for that, as you wait for the light to appear.

So, while kisses from your husband (or a psychiatrist) may be great, they can't cure depression. But along with medication and the proper treatment, now you have some practical steps you can take for your own well being. There are times when one of these strategies may be more helpful than the rest. Other times, it may seem that none of them makes a huge difference. But I keep practicing all of them anyway, because I know they are steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Following them on a regular basis may not eliminate depression forever, but they help me to minimize their severity.

These tips can be helpful for people who are not depressed too. They can be useful for anyone who is a little discouraged, a little blue, or needs to refocus on more positive things in life.

I hope that by trying these ideas you may find yourself on the way to experiencing more joy.

******************

Author Marsha Jordan is founder of a nonprofit charity called Hugs and Hope for Sick Children (http://www.hugsandhope.org). More of her articles on depression are in her book, Hugs, Hope, and Peanut Butter, a compilation of essays illustrated with drawings by critically ill children. A wonderful mix of the serious and the zany, this book warms the heart and lifts the spirit. PROCEEDS BENEFIT SICK KIDS! This book was written to encourage anyone who faces disappointment -- which is EVERYone! Some essays in the book include "What Did I Do To Deserve This?" "What Was God Thinking?" and "More Than I Can Handle." Order the book or learn more at http://www.hugsandhope.org/book.htm

Concession Stands - A Traditional School Sports Fundraiser Gets Healthy

2008-03-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

Last fall I went to my nephews high school football game at the concession stand there were all the usual greasy (but tasty) foods. After all sports fans would not be happy if there were no French fries, hot dogs or sodas! But to my pleasant surprise there were also several great healthy options too -- bottled water, granola bars and deli style sandwiches.

Now days one of the big issues for school districts is offering healthy food options. Many parents are concerned about the high obesity rates for children. They want to know that healthy food options are at least available. This extends even into extracurricular activities like sports and the foods that are offered at concession stands.

There are other reasons to offer healthy options at the school concession stands too. Many families are very busy and the sports concession stand may provide the family meal for the evening. Having healthy choices will give people more to choose from than just the usual burgers and hot dogs.

Providing consideration for people with dietary restrictions is also another reason to offer a variety of foods. Offering lighter options for those on weight loss diets, dairy free items and vegetarian options will be a welcome change for some of your sports fans.

Heres seven tips for having a healthier school sports concession stand fundraiser:

1.Offer deli sandwiches in addition to burgers
2.Have light mayo and other condiments available
3.Offer granola bars and dried fruit bars
4.Sell Baked Lays and Sun-chips in addition to other chip brands
5.If your stand has ice cream bars, also have dairy free fruit bars or sorbet
6.Offer trail mix in addition to other snacks
7.Veggie lovers Pizza in addition to pizza with meat

Concession stands are a great school sports fundraiser that has been a tradition in many schools. Your concession stand can be unique by offering a variety of foods including healthy food options.

About the Author: Jennifer Lawton searches for fun and creative ways for non-profit groups to raise funds. She is a frequent writer for http://SuperFundraiser.com, a site that provides customized fundraising programs for schools, sports teams and other youth groups.

Premature Ejaculation Cure through Natural Herbs

2008-03-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Adam and eve were the first humans that were created by God. They were considered as the sole ancestors of all the human communities. God made it a rule or a law that both the sexes are attracted towards each other to perform a process that is responsible for the growth of their progeny.

For generating a good progeny both the partners should be in good health and should be disease free. But nowadays it has been commonly seen that males suffers from peculiar disorder that called as premature ejaculation.

Premature ejaculation may be defined as the early release of sperm by men during sexual process without completing the act of sexual intercourse. In ayurveda it is known as sheegrapatan.

Causes

There might be many causes by which premature ejaculation occurs. These may be physiological causes and physical causes.

Excessive masturbation
Prostrate problems
Stress
Hypertension
Hormonal disturbances
Weak musculature
Wrong feeding habits
Excess consuming of alcohol and smoking.

Treatment

No doubt there are lots of medicines available in market especially the blue pill commonly known as Viagra. But it might just give you relief but is not able to treat. Ayurveda, the age old science is very helpful in curing various sexual diseases especially premature ejaculation.

Shilajit (mineral pitch) it is ayurvedic organo-mineral preparation that is extremely powerful in its action. It helps in providing endurance in males. Shilajit is derived from the mountains especially those that come in Himalayan range. It is a semisolid substance that oozes out of the Himalayan Mountains especially in summers. It is actually decomposed plant matter that is formed due to drifts in layers of mountains. Due to heat, especially in summer these oozes out of the mountains in the form of resins. It is very helpful in providing strength to the body making it rock solid. It is also helpful in increasing the libido of the body and helps in preventing disease like premature ejaculation and impotence.

Salab mishri (orchis latifolia) salab mishri is one of the herb that is very good and is very effective in promoting sexual performance. It works as an excellent aphrodisiac agent that is very helpful in treating various diseases related to sexual heath. It is an orchid that is found growing in areas that are bit cold in nature. It is found growing wild in India and Indian sub continent. It is very helpful in treatimng diseses like premature ejaculation, impotence and erectile dysfunction.

Ashwagandha one of the most prestigious herbs. It is an herb that has multiple area of working. It is very helpful in suppressing vata dosha in the body. It is efficiently works as an general body toner and supplies body with new energies and zeal. It is also considered as an excellent aphrodisiac agent. It is commonly kneon as Indian ginseng. It is a powerful sexual stimulant and helps in getting rid of various diseases like premature ejaculation, impotence and erectile dysfunction. It is also used to increase libido.

Safed musli (curculigo orchioides) it is an herb that is a powerful sexual stimulant and is very widely used as an aphrodisiac agent. It not only supplies body with the energy but is also increase the blood circulation especially to the genitals that are very essential. It also is helpful in increasing the sperm count thereby increasing to the libido.

Read about Premature Ejaculation Cure at http://www.ayurvediccure.com - World's Finest Portal on Ayurveda and Herbal Remedies

Advertising Questions Answered

2008-03-08T15:10:00.000-08:00

1) If we accept that every business must have a mailing list. To me this is fundamental. The new business with one customer has a mailing list of one plus prospects?

That list is a means of communicating with the customer, verbally or in writing. Failure to communicate could mean losing the most valuable asset of the business, so your potential customers are just as important.

Cherish your customer(s) and grow your mailing list to consist of customers, lapsed customers, potential customers (qualified prospects), prospects and possibly new leads.

You can tailor your communications to the whole list or segments of the list. Learn how to grow and manage your list.

2) How do we grow the list? One of the most profitable ways is to use classifieds advertisements.

Classified advertising is best used to build a list of qualified prospects. A qualified prospect has been turned from a prospect (someone who may have a need for your product or service) to someone who has an identified need for your product or service.

Because they have responded to your advertising efforts they have indicated a possible need. Use classifieds to offer a free catalogue, booklet or report relative to your product or service.

3) Generally you can sell anything from classifieds so they are great for pulling enquiries with lines such as: Write for further information; free booklet offer, send for product or service information. Be creative in what you offer and have fun developing your advertising skills as you build your list.

4) Advertise all year round. Responses will vary, but by keying your advertisements

according to the month they appear, and by careful tabulation of your returns from each keyed advertisement you will find that steady year round responses will continue.

It has been known for enquiries and orders to still be coming as long as two years after the date of an advertisement! The media used for classifieds can lie around for a long time.

5) How can I decide where to advertise my product or service? Targeting! You have to know your target market there are many sources of information. Public libraries, trade journals, the Internet and good old word of mouth.

In the UK we have BRAD (British Rate and Data). You are sure to have similar where you are.

BRAD contains information on nearly all journals and magazines in Britain. However you do it, make a list of the addresses, circulation figures, reader demographics and advertising rates.

Individual trade journals will provide a media pack if you ask. The pack contains all of the necessary data.

Advertising costs money so at all times you must be sure that you are building your list profitably. The very best way to build your list for free is to get free advertising which you can do by offering an article to the journals.

The best free advertising is from the issue of regular press releases. Editors are always looking for news. Get to know the journals that cover your specialisation and issue a press release on a regular and repeating basis.

This keeps your name in front of your whole list, customers to prospects, and can offer information, free, this is what works every time free information. Dont be daunted at the prospect of writing press releases. We show you [How To Write A Press Release] here.

Tip The man who knows most is the first to want to know more. Use press releases to offer him free information as part of your program of advertising.

Resource Box: Article by Michael Harrison, Author, Publisher and Business Consultant. Learn from an expert: Go to: http://www.be-your-own-business-expert.com/ Subscribe for your Free weekly newsletter. Information for career and business minded people. Subscribe today http://www.be-your-own-business-expert.com/Bulletin.html Access our archives when you subscribe.

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Cut Yourself Some Slack

2008-03-08T08:03:00.000-08:00

We all have had our portion of bad days; they are inevitable. Living in the realm of today's busy working schedules, while not allowing our bodies and minds to experience any relaxing time or enjoying life's simple pleasures, has led us feeling physically ill or emotionally worn out. It is time to realize that this is actually a normal outcome of pushing yourself too hard. But what is not normal is allowing this depressing state to continue without doing anything to reverse its negative outcomes.

When the advice of "cutting yourself some slack" is given to you not only by columnists or experts, but also by friends, then you have to reconsider your actions and daily routine and perform any necessary changes to allow yourself some time to breath. Working individuals suffer today from a common problem; being always too busy. Instead of multitasking when you are in the house or simply deciding to stay indoors because you do not think you have the necessary energy to perform anything else, react! Make yourself get out the door and begin experiencing the life you believe you deserve. Begin by calling friends or joining a group of people that are willing to explore life's choices while being outdoors. Close the door behind you and let work problems exist only when you are in the office.

Although this is easier said than done, try to select a precious time during the day or even the week and spoil yourself by going window shopping, walking around in the nearest park, or jogging early in the morning or later, before dinner time. Those precious moments away from it all can give you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that only you can provide to your body and mind. Cutting some slack, should not be considered a luxury. Instead, you should think of it as the necessary time to charge your own batteries and thus cope better with life. Others' expectations, as well as your own, can be a very heavy load for you to carry around, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Make yourself and others realize that engaging in any outdoor activities is one of the few ways you have in hand to become more productive and increase your efficiency levels.

Biking, swimming, jogging, playing baseball, soccer, basketball, football or any other sport of your choice, can direct you to reach a different state of mind and actually begin feeling again useful. Instead of spending the limited available time worrying for things you cannot fix while outside the office, invest in yourself and others will realize the difference as soon as you will.

Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles for http://outdoorstalk.net/ - In addition, Jonathon also writes articles for http://4homelife.net/ and http://familyinformationsource.com/

Get Interest Free Cash With 0% Balance Transfers

2008-03-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

If you have a great credit rating and no debt, then you could be in line to make some money. And you can do it using the tools that credit card tarts have been using for years.

The Credit Card Tart System

Credit card tarts have used the incentives offered by lenders to their advantage for quite a long time. These incentives often consist of 0% interest on balance transfers for a fixed period of up to 12 months. Borrowers who have a debt apply for a new 0% credit card and transfer that debt to the new card. They make repayments as they normally would, but the balance owed is reduced since no interest is being charged.

When the incentive period is due to end, credit card tarts look around for a new 0% deal. They apply for the new card at least six weeks before the expiry of the old 0% deal, so they have plenty of time to transfer the outstanding balance onto their new 0% card.

This serial card switching allows borrowers to clear debt without paying any interest. Lenders have begun to fight back as they are losing hundreds of thousands of pounds' worth of interest. Many of them now charge a balance transfer fee of about 2%. However, there are still some fee free balance transfers available, which is good news fro debt-free consumers looking to use the system to make some money.

How To Earn Money On A 0% Card

To make money from a 0% balance transfer card, it is necessary to have a good credit rating and to get two new credit cards. One credit card has a 0% balance transfer rate. This must be a card that does not charge a balance transfer fee. The second allows credit card cheques at no additional charge.

The borrower can use the balance transfer card to transfer a sum of money onto the card that allows credit card cheques. The borrower can then write a cheque for that amount and pay it into a high interest savings account. This strategy only works if the interest earned is more than the amount being paid. Borrowers can use the same technique to get a low interest loan. Long term balance transfer rates are lower than standard interest rates on loans.

But Is It Legal?

There is nothing to prevent borrowers from using their cards in this way. As long as they make repayments on time and in full, there are unlikely to be complaints. It is also essential to keep credit card applications to a minimum so there are no red flags on the borrower's credit report. There's no reason why borrowers who stick to these rules and make payments on time shouldn't make a bit of money from their credit cards. And while they're shopping around for the perfect credit cards, it's worth checking out the other incentives as well.

Joe Kenny writes for the personal finance sites http://www.cardguide.co.uk and also http://www.ukpersonalloanstore.co.uk.

Make Money Online by Building Momentum

2008-03-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

The past month has been a very successful one for my online business in terms of traffic going up, number of new affiliates going up, and money in my pocket getting heavier. This really inspires me because after admitting to being lazy about my business over the hot summer months, I am just slowly starting to get back into the swing of things. I am just slowly starting to return to my daily to-do list after having made it more manageable and motivating for me to complete on a daily basis. I am not fully back where I should be in terms of work I need to be doing, and yet, it was my most profitable month ever. I have to say this really motivates me to work even harder, and be more consistent if I really want to make money online. I've realized that you can do this too by building your business momentum.

Many people who want to make money online start a new program with the hope that they will make millions overnight. This just isn't realistic no matter what some online business owners may tell you. I've seen the effects that building momentum can have on your business. I've been through some ups and downs and everyone will experience these. But if you give up on your online business even before a year has passed, you don't even have the chance to get the momentum going, or see that next upward swing in your results, and it will come if you put the time and effort in!

Let me explain by example what I mean by building momentum so that you can make money onlineThere are four ways I have done this, which are: Forum posting; Article writing; Blog posting; and Link generating.

Forum posting means that you join some discussion forums on business related topics, or topics related to whatever your website is about. It's free to join these forums, and a great way to get yourself into a community of other people who are doing exactly what you are doing. You can share ideas, ask questions, look for information, help others, make new friends, and find out what all the top dogs are up to. At first you may think this is not at all really vital to your business and a waste of time. Well, think again! I have made sales simply from offering helpful advice in forums after someone followed my signature link to my site.

A friend of mine who frequents a fishing forum told me that people won't even pay attention to you unless you have made over 500 posts. I thought he was full of it, until I had 500 posts, advanced in my status, and then had 1000+ posts. Believe me, people will pay attention to your posts the more you have because they can see that you have been around for a while and must know what you're talking about. This isn't to say you should go and spam the forums. That is a no-no! Make useful contributions to the forums and offer something of value on a consistent basis, and you will be building momentum for your business through forum posting.

Article writing is the next way I have built momentum for my business. Again, this is something you don't do overnight not if you write your own original articles like I do. This is one of the best ways to advertise your business these days. Provide an article with useful information, and submit it to an article distribution service that will distribute your article to thousands of publishers with your online business links at the end in the author bio-box. You'll be amazed at how fast your links get dispersed around the net One-way links pointing back to your site! I have also found that the more articles you write, the more of an authority you become in your niche. The more articles you have to your name, the more people will realize that you have something valuable to offer, you can be trusted, and your readers may decide you're worth buying from.

Similar to article writing is blog posting. The more frequent your posts, the more traffic you will get to your site. I recently found a tool on the net that allows you to type in your blog address to get a monetary value of what your blog is worth. Now I have posted my own articles, as well as other people's articles to my blog, and have added special news and reports in addition to that. According to the value I got for my blog, I need to beef up my blog even more! Obviously this takes time, and that is my point when I refer to "building momentum". If you quit early on, you will never have the chance to make your online business work for you or make money online.

Finally, link generating is another means I have used to build momentum for my business. The search engines don't even like it if you gather links too quickly because they see it as a deliberate attempt to get a link back to your site. It is recommended that you gather links slowly, maybe 10-15 new links per week, and you want thousands of links pointing back to your site! This, too, will take time, and over time, you will see your link popularity grow if you continue to gather links by writing articles, posting your URL to the link directories, linking to the internal pages on your own site, commenting on blogs, posting in forums, and so on.

Building momentum means taking the time, and making the consistent effort to build your business. It means not giving up pre-maturely, thinking nothing is working for you, and that you are not making any money online. If you take consistent action over time by posting in forums, writing original articles, making frequent posts to your blog, and getting as many quality links pointing back to your site, then have what it takes to make money online!

Liane Bate owns a Plugin Profit Site web business, and is a member of Success University and the IAHBE. Visit: http://www.HonestMoneyMaking.com and http://www.HonestMoneyMaking.com/blog/

Does The Answer To This Question Determine If You Use A Condom Or Not When Having Sex With A Woman

2008-03-07T05:56:00.000-08:00

Having sex without a condom feels better, any man who tells you different is lying.

Asking a woman if she is clean, does not make having sex with her any safer.

If a woman has an STD and is concerned enough about you not getting it, she will either not have sex with you or make sure that you have and use a condom.

On the other hand, a woman who has an STD and is not concerned about you getting it, will have unprotected sex with you and say she is clean if you ask.

In both cases, if you are concerned enough to ask it is in your best interest to put a condom on.

Of course, this is all under the assumption that the woman even knows if she has an STD or not.

It would be nice if STD's had easy symptoms to spot, yet the truth of the matter is some STD's have no symptoms, some only show up in women, and some only in men.

In other words, she believes she is clean because she has no symptoms (how most people check) you have unprotected sex with her because you believe she is clean.

Two weeks later you get a STD like Chlamydia and think that the girl who you slept with 2 days ago using the same "Are You Clean" method gave it to you; since she was the last person you had sex with.

Now, all three of you have it and hopefully you go to the doctor to get it treated and learn that you need to always wear a condom if you want to stay clean.

In the end, it is important to realize that using a condom is the safest way to go and asking if she is clean is the dumbest question that a man can ever ask a woman before having sex.

Teddy Shabba is a Dating Coach for Men who has a daily newsletter that provides you with a wealth of information on how to be more successful with women. You can sign up for the Teddy Shabba Dating Advice Newsletter for Men now.

Also with over 500 articles from a variety of dating experts just for men our Dating Advice and Seduction Article Database is the perfect place for any man.

To learn more about How To Attract Women visit our article section Attract Women Today.

Natural Skin Care

2008-03-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

Natural skin care is not something modern, in fact it is the most basic skin care methods known to men, a long time before we were watching television commercials that showed us elaborate scientists explaining how their new formula had made a breakthrough in skin research and skin care humans have been using the things that grow around them as remedies for skin problems and found many herbs and plants that helped the skin to look better, younger and healthier.

It is not surprising that most of the people on earth will be more suspicious of a chemical product that has been developed in laboratories and tested on animals time and time again, while science has made human life what it is today it is still fighting many battles with understanding the way that the skin works and the needs of the human skin, not to mention the features and qualities that human skin has.

The need for skin care products is on the rise and that is a direct result of more and more people in the world have problems with the effects the chemical skin care products, while it is true that many others enjoy the same chemical skin care products there are many others that have serious problems with it.

The battle for a better skin in fact a fight to balance and nurture the skin, the human skin is effected from its environment, and the modern life has also a heavy toll on the health of our skin, the products that are on the market for skin care are in fact balancing products that aim to restore the main qualities f the skin and strengthen it in order to protect it from the damage that is inflicted on it daily. The advantage to the natural skin care products is that the scientists that make these products do not use any chemicals so the risk that the person using the product will be sensitive to it is relatively low, even though there are some people who are extremely sensitive and can not use even a natural and non chemical skin care products, but these are very rare in the population.

The ingredients used in natural skin care are taken for the natural world, you can find many different kinds of flowers like lavender and the cedar wood, the use of honey and oats of different kinds is also common among the natural skin care products, the researchers search every organic product for its potential qualities and apply them to the skin, sometimes creating a sort of cycle in which products that are generally considered foods are used to nourish the skin and protect it.

Skin care is a very delicate matter, it is important that we use efficient products that will protect and nourish our skin, there are many products on the markets around the world, but it seems that the natural skin care option is growing bigger with time, it is only natural that many of us will try the natural solution for our skin care needs.

Celia Namart an avid traveler and researcher, an avid travels and an enthusiast of alternative medicine and natural remedies Celia is now writing articles about Skin Care at http://skincare.healthandcosmetics.com for http://healthandcosmetics.com

Just Imagine! Two Different Radio Formats For The Price Of One

2008-03-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

One of the criticisms that has been levied against conventional or terrestrial radio is that so many of today's stations have mandated playlists and just keep playing the same music over and over. Plus, many listeners say there are just too many darn commercials.

Well, HD Radio is about to fix that.

HD Radio or digital radio makes it possible for a station to broadcast several different signals on the same frequency. This technology is called multicsting. In multicasting, there is the main signal, just like you're hearing now on your favorite station, plus up to four subchannels or, as they are commonly called, HD2 channels.

A number of stations broadcasting HD Radio are already experimenting with HD2 channels.

For example, there are some interesting things happening in Chicago which has about 15 HD2 channels.

Some of the stations like WLUP, have elected to just extend its current format with classic rock on its regular station and and hard rock on its HD2 channel.

Others are trying to increase their listening audience with some very different formats. WLIT which has adult contemporary on its main channel and disco on its HD2 outlet. WOJO has gone an entirely different direction with its two channels broadcasting reggaeton and Latin American dancehall.

Some of the other HD2 channels in Chicago are WKSC'103.5's "Gay Pride Radio;" WGCI 107.5's Old School Hip Hop; WUSN 99.5's Future Country; and WBBM 96.3's all-dance music format.

In addition, Cox Broadcasting has launched seven high-definition subchannels (HD2 channels). These subchannels can be heard on the company's stations in Atlanta and Tampa.

In Atlanta, WSB-FM, an Adult Contemporary station, will broadcast a new Soft Standards HD2 sub-channel; WBTS-FM, a Rhythmic Top 40 station, will broadcast a Pop Top 40 HD2 sub-channel; WALR-FM, an Urban Adult station, will broadcast an Adult Hip Hop HD2 sub-channel; and WSRV-FM, a Classic Hits station, will simulcast Cox Radio's AM750 News/Talk format on its HD2 sub- channel.

In Tampa, WSUN-FM, an Alternative Rock station, will broadcast an All Grunge Rock HD2 sub-channel; WPOI-FM, an 80's Hits station, will broadcast a Modern Adult HD2 sub-channel; and WWRM-FM, an Adult Contemporary station, will broadcast a Contemporary Christian HD2 sub-channel.

And look, Ma. No commercials!

Just as important, these HD2 channels are commercial free. In fact, the nation's broadcasters have pledged to keep HD2 channels commercial-free at least through 2007.

From what we have heard this is both good news and bad news. The good news is obvious no annoying commercials. The bad news is that some of the HD2 channels are just one song after another with no announcer at all. We suppose this could get a bit boring after a bit.

HD Radio is a tremendous technological leap from today's familiar analog broadcasts. These digital broadcasts provide listeners with radically improved audio quality, and new texting services. To learn more about this amazing new technology, just go my Web site, http://www.hd-radio-home.com, to get all the buzz.

Douglas Hanna is a retired marketing executive and an expert author who has written more than 125 articles on HD radio, chronic fatigue syndrome and family finances.

Hassle-Free Money-Saving Travel Tips

2008-03-06T05:33:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows that you can have a wonderful time with family and friends when you go on vacation or travel to a new and distant spot. However, sometimes disaster can arise when things don't go quite as planned or anticipated. Here are some tips and hints that would help ensure that your getaway is affordable and trouble-free.

AIRFARES
Be flexible. When booking your flight, don't tell the reservation agent your travel dates up-front. Instead, ask the agent to check every fare for the itinerary you want within a range of dates. Ask for the cheapest fares first. If you're flexible, you may be able to cut ticket costs.

Buy tickets after midnight on Tuesday in the time zone where the airline is based. Generally, airlines start airfare sales late on Friday, and competing airlines match the lower fares. They stop matching lower fares usually on Monday. Customers who book low fares are given 24 hours to purchase the tickets. All low fares that were booked on Monday but not purchased by midnight Tuesday are available for sale at that time.

HOTELS
Make hotel reservation at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. You'll have a better chance of getting a low-rate from a front-desk clerk who understands that an unsold room is lost revenue. Call the hotel in the city you wish to visit directly. Don't call the 800-number - you're likely to reach a national reservation clerk.

Request weekend rates. At some hotels, weekend rates are one-third of the regular rates. If you plan to stay through the week, ask to have the cheaper weekend rate extended. Make sure that the price you are quoted reflects hidden costs, such as resort fees and taxes.

Consider alternative lodging. Many hostels now offer private rooms for $25.00 to $160.00 a night. For more information, log on to Hostelling International USA at www.huisa.org. Also, some colleges rent their dorm rooms at reasonable prices during vacation periods.

CRUISES
Book a cruise at the last minute. Frequently, vessels sail with empty berths. Many routes regularly have more berths than passengers. If you're flexible, you could get great last-minute packages. Check with a travel agent or consolidator. Be aware that cruise lines now charge for extras that were previously included in packages, such as some recreational activities.

RENTAL CARS
Contact the local rental location. Local operators can offer deals to reduce a temporary surplus or base on the local market. If you call the national toll-free number to make a reservation, you may not get the best price or the best car.

Whenever possible, avoid renting at airport lots, which can be more expensive than in-city ones. Compare local and national rates at RentalCars.com. Make sure you pay only for what you want and need. Here are some things to keep in mind when renting a car.

Extra insurance -
Your personal auto insurance may include rentals and the credit card company may provide coverage for damage to rental cars, but these may still not be enough. To maximize your coverage:
- Make sure you have sufficient collision and comprehensive coverage on your auto policy.
- Pay for the rental car with a credit card that provides additional coverage.
- Check for rental car companies that have an agreement with your insurance carrier to provide additional coverage. For example, USAA offers additional coverage for Avis, Budget, and Hertz cars in most locations in the United States.

Spare drivers -
Most companies let another person drive the car for free. But some charge extra for every other person who drives the car, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Ask before you reserve. Breaking the rules could affect your insurance protection. If your spouse has an accident, you may have to pay for the repairs out of your pocket.

Gassing up -
When returning the car, you have the option of filling it up yourself, prepaying for a full tank at a fixed per-gallon rate, or paying a refueling fee when you return with less fuel than you started with. Refueling fees can be extremely high. You might get a better rate if you fill it up yourself.

Return policy
- If at all possible, return it where you picked it up, or be ready to pay more. Drop-off charge is based on the distance between pick up and drop-off point.

Late fees -
Return the car on time. Most rental agencies give you a one-hour grace period, but don't test it. Returning it late can lead to high overtime charges.

AUTOMOBILE TRIPS
The AAA makes the "summer driving season" sound so compulsory, as if something horrible will happen to you if you don't clock a certain number of interstate miles by Labor Day. If you love taking road trips, here are some tips to make your trip smoother.

Leave early, stay late. To avoid peak traffic, especially during holidays, leave a day earlier than other travelers, and return a day earlier or a day later.

Plan ahead.
Know your route and have an alternative plan in case of heavy traffic or road closure. Carry a vehicle safety/emergency kit. Make sure your car is in top condition. Long summer travel puts a lot of stress on a car. Get a pre-trip checkup.

Tires should have sufficient treads. If you don't know what to look for, have a mechanic check the entire width of your tire including the rims.

Brakes should be checked, usually by having a mechanic take off all four wheels. Note the thickness of the brake linings and shoes. The calipers, devices that cause friction as you press the brake pad, and the rubber hydraulic lines should also be checked.

Steering components, such as the front end and steering-related parts, including the ball joints and bushings, should be examined.

Take your time.
"It's better late than sorry." Plan extra time and arrive safely. Take breaks for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours and stretch your legs. Don't forget to drink plenty of fluids. Don't eat and run. Take a walk after eating to get your blood flowing.

When traveling with children, pack toys, books, games and snacks within reach to keep them occupied. Try a recorded story or sing-along. Also try these two tips. Hang a bag over the back of the front passenger seat to hold toys, bottles, crayons and other favorite items. Give older children maps of the United States and pencils, markers or pens. Then as you drive, they can look

Syble James is currently the president of Alpha Health Source, a retailer of natural and organic products including vitamins, supplements, specialty foods, over-the-counter remedies, and personal care. Ms. James also has experience and knowledge of the network marketing industry. Previously, Ms. James held executive and management positions in consumer and business services companies.
for cars with different state license plates and mark them on the map.

Travel with a cell phone and car charger -- especially if you're traveling off the beaten path.

Sources:
The Automobile Association of America, USAA

The Primary Residence Exclusion

2008-03-05T23:39:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest tax gifts is the principle residence rules for capital gains on the sale of your home. So great is the principle residence tax exclusion that even married couples filing jointly are benefited to the same, if not greater, extent as single taxpayers. Now, some people may argue that there have been, are and will be greater gifts, but not much beats the simplicity of this rule. The basics of it are immensely easy to grasp: you own a house, you live in it for at least two years, you sell it and you dont pay any taxes on the gain. Gone are the days when the young homeowner (not wishing to sell and upgrade) had to save every receipt for every upgrade, every repair, every minor item bought at the hardware store. If you have lived in your own home for two years, you probably dont have to worry.

Of course, there are some technicalities associated with the general rule. They are pretty simple so first I will bullet-point the main ones:

If you are single your capital gains exclusion is limited to $250,000.00
If you are married your capital gains exclusion is limited to $500,000.00
You have to own the home and it has to be your primary residence for two of the previous five years

What is your primary residence? Basically, it is a home that you personally live in the majority of the year. If you have a house in Palm Beach and one in Lake Tahoe and you spend 8 months of the year at the Tahoe home than that is your primary residence. But, keep in mind the 2 out of 5 part of the rule. Lets say that the next year you spend 7 months at the Palm Beach house. Then the Palm Beach home is your primary that year. See where I am going with this? You can primary more than one home at once over a five year period so long as each is your main home for at least two years during that five year period. Temporary absences are also counted as periods of use even if you rent the property during those absences (but talk to your accountant about recapturing any rental depreciation).

Now dont let the five year requirement confuse you it only takes two years to achieve the tax exclusion. The five year part is a bonus, allowing you some freedom. You dont have to personally use the home as your primary residence for two consecutive years or for the two years immediately before you sell, you just have to use it is your primary residence for two of the previous five years. But, it is also a limitation, you cannot live in a house for two years and then rent it for four years and then get the exclusion. You could live in it for two years and then rent it for three years and then sell it (so long as it is sold within the five year mark from when you first lived in it as your primary residence).

Also, bear in mind that married couples do not have to live together. So long as one spouse lives in the primary residence for the two years than the couple can take advantage of the $500,000.00 exclusion. But, they cannot primary two homes at once and get the $500,000.00 exclusion on both. If they live apart during the two year period and each sell their primary then they are each limited to the single taxpayer exclusion of $250,000.00 for each house.

If you have a home office or rental as part of your primary residence or run a business out of a portion of your property, your ability to maximize your capital gains exclusion largely depends upon whether the home office, business or rental was part of your home (in the same dwelling unit) or a separate part of your property (a separate building or apartment). If the business use of your home was contained within your dwelling unit then upon sale you will need to recapture any depreciation taken for that part of the home. But you will not lose any of the allowable capital gains exclusion ($250,000.00 for single taxpayers and $500,000.00 for married filing jointly). If the business use of your home was not a part of your dwelling unit then you need to bifurcate the sale by allocating the basis of the property and the amount realized upon its sale between the business or rental part and the part used as a home.

Remember, only one home can be sold in any two year period unless you and your spouse live apart, and even then you can each only take the single payer exclusion of up to $250,000.00. But what if you need to sell a home that you have not lived in for the full two years? The IRS tells us that in special circumstances you can sell a home before you reach the two year mark and get a pro-rated exclusion. An example of a pro-rated exclusion is, for example, if you are a single taxpayer and have to sell your primary residence for a qualified reason after living in it only one year than you could exclude up to $125,000.00. In other words, you lived in the home 50% of the requisite time so you can take 50% of the allowable exclusion. The special circumstances that qualify you for this safe harbor and allow you to take the pro-rated exclusion have to do with health (yours and certain qualified individuals such as close relatives), change of employment or what the IRS calls unforeseen circumstances (examples include death, natural or man-made disasters, multiple births form the same pregnancy, divorce) These circumstances also have to cause you to sell your home. Factors used by the IRS to determine causation include:

Your sale and the circumstances causing it were close in time,
The circumstances causing your sale occurred during the time you owned and used the property as your main home,
The circumstances causing your sale were not reasonably foreseeable when you began using the property as your main home,
Your financial ability to maintain your home materially changed, and
The suitability of your property as a home materially changed.

1031 Exchanges and the Primary Residence Rule

What happens if you do a like kind tax deferred exchange (also known as a 1031 exchange) of rental property or other property held for investment and then later decide to live in the property that was purchased? It is crucial to your 1031 exchange that both the property sold and the property purchased are held for investment. The property purchased must undergo a holding period before it is resold or converted into non-investment property. That holding period should be a year and a day to avoid audit. After you have complied with the held for investment requirement by, for example, renting the property if it is rental property, then what? Well, you could sell the property and pay your taxes on that sale and all previous sales that were perhaps in a series of exchanges or exchange and defer the tax once again, OR you could live in the house as your primary residence. If you have a had a series of gains that you have deferred this is a way to extinguish your tax debt forever - all you have to do is move into your investment property once the holding period for it qualifying as an investment is over.

Gaining the primary residence exclusion for property that was 1031 property isnt as easy as the simpler primary residence rules talked about above, but it does allow you to take advantage of two loopholes at once! The main difference when primary residencing a 1031 exchanged property is that you actually have to hold the property for 5 years. The five year part here is a substantive rule, you cannot sell after only 2 years of ownership as you can if you were simply primary residencing a home that was not exchanged into. But that first year that you had to hold onto the home for investment goes towards the five year calculation. So, you rent it for two years and live in it for three, or vice-versa, so long as you kick the whole thing off with a one year rental period and live in it two of the remaining four years.

In this way, you can exclude up to a total of $500,000.00 worth of gain (if you are married filing jointly or $250,000.00 worth of gain if you are a single taxpayer) from the combined gains of the sale of the home you ended up living in as your primary residence, and any of the gains that you had previously 1031 exchanged. For example, say you purchased a duplex in May of 2000 for $150,000.00 and then in June of 2001 you 1031 exchanged the duplex (now worth $200,000.00) into a commercial building worth $200,000.00 (thus deferring $50,000.00 worth of gain). A few years later the commercial building is worth $300,000.00 and you do another exchange, this time into a nice single family home worth $350,000.00 (you have to put in an additional $50,000.00 to complete the purchase). You have now deferred a total of $150,000.00 worth of gain. Lets say you then choose to rent the home for the first two years that you own it and then you later decide to move into the home. You then live in the house for three years at which point it is now worth $700,000.00 and you sell it for this amount. You and your spouse have now effectively wiped out not only the $350,000.00 gain from the sale of your primary residence, but the previous $150,000.00 worth of gain as well.

Diet For Healthy Prostate - Why Soy Is Not Just For Women

2008-03-05T17:44:00.000-08:00

Researchers from Canada have found that having a diet of red meat, organ meats, soft drink and bottled water increased the risk of getting prostate cancer. They compared the diets of 80 men with prostate cancer, and 334 healthy men, and the diet just described more than doubled the risk of developing prostate cancer.

So what prostate diet can reduce the risk of prostate cancer? Swedish researchers examined the diet of 1499 men with prostate cancer and 1130 men who were healthy, and they published their findings in the Cancer Causes and Control journal. They found that eating foods rich in phytoestrogens decreased the risk of prostate cancer.

Phytoestrogens are plant molecules that have a weak estrogenic effect. They are made converted in the intestines from plant precursors by bacteria as they digest food. They are taken up by the same parts of the body that process the hormone estrogen.

Interestingly, one of the treatments for prostate cancer by doctors involves using estrogens to reduce the level of testosterone in men with advanced prostate cancer. It does this indirectly, through its effect on the hypothalamus, as less luteinizing hormone releasing hormone is produced by the hypothalamus. This means not as much luteinizing hormone is released by the body, which suppresses the production of testosterone.

High doses of estrogens for men can lead to cardiovascular complications. But phytoestrogens obtained from diet, in less quantities than a drug, and with a milder effect to start with, should not pose a problem. And researchers don't yet know what exactly causes phytoestrogens to have such a protective effect, whether it is similar to that of the estrogen treatment for advanced prostate cancers. And they don't know which phytoestrogens are the most active.

So what phytoestrogen foods could you include in a diet for a healthy prostate? Soy beans and nuts are a good source. Soy and nuts contain a type of phytoestrogen called isoflavones, whilst berries and seeds contain lignans. Foods could include peanuts, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and berries.

The only possible concerns with soy is that a study in mice found that male mice that had a type of heart disease that people also have, suffered heart failure when fed a soy based diet. Whether this extrapolates to the human population is yet to be established. But it may be wise for those me who have this particular genetic heart condition, dilated cardiomyopathy, to be cautious about soy products in their diet.

But for other men, soy products could be good news. A meta analysis, which is a study of related studies, published in the International Journal of Cancer, found that diets high in soy lowered men's risk of prostate cancer by 30%.

Another important mineral to consider for men is zinc. Zinc is used by men's bodies to make some of the male hormones, and for general prostate health. A deficiency in zinc can lead to problems with the testicles, the prostate, and the health of the sperm. Foods that are great sources of zinc include seeds like pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower; nuts like almonds, brazil, cashews and walnuts; and foods like lettuce, oats and onions. Raw onion is particularly suggested by Paul Bedson, a natural therapist. He also suggests vegetable juice made of equal parts of beetroot, carrot, and cucumber in cases where the prostate gland is enlarged. Cranberry juice, a cup drunk three times a day, is also recommended in this case.

References:

1. phoenix5.org/Infolink/advanced/estrogen.html
2. Australian Healthy Food, March 2006
3. Australian Healthy Food, November, 2005
4. Paul Bedson, The Complete Family Guide To Natural Healing
5. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?n=65785&m=1NIE213&c=qgtqmovbyiaxdub

If you're interested in a health prostate supplement that promotes healthy prostate, bladder and kidney functions, click here. Rebecca Prescott runs this site which presents comprehensive reviews of vitamins and supplements.

Official - Becoming a US Citizen or Permanent Resident is Now More Expensive

2008-03-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

Beginning July 30, 2007, immigrants seeking to become US citizens or permanent residents will have to pay more in immigration fees. In some cases, the fees have almost tripled, such as the adjustment of status fee that will change from $325 to $930.

Back in February the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services had announced their plan of increasing their fee structure to finance the modernization of the agency. According to a USCIS press release:

USCIS expects that the revenue from the new fee structure will lead to a 20 percent reduction in average application processing times by the end of fiscal year 2009, and will cut processing times by the end of fiscal year 2008 for four key application types: the I-90 (Renew / Replace Permanent Resident Card), I-140 (Immigration Petition for Alien Worker), the I-485, and the N-400 (Naturalization). These four application types represent one-third of all applications filed.

Although the above may sound like good news in terms of processing times, the new fees are a hard blow to thousands of immigrants who couldnt even afford paying the current fees.

With the new fees, a family of two adults and two children filing for a green card will pay more than $3,000 in fees aloneadd to that the cost of the required medical examinations, photos, and attorneys fees.

Some of the changes include:

* Form I-130 (Family-based Petition): From $190 to $355
* Form I-140 (Employment-based Petition): From $195 to $475
* Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): From $325 to $930 (adults); from $225 to $600 (children under 14)

The complete list of fees is available at the USCIS Web site:

Diego Pineda is the author of Getting a Green Card for Less: How to file the I-485 without an immigration lawyer. To learn how to save up to $5,000 in attorneys fees go to greencardforless.com

Head Unit Features, And How They Effect YOU: A Guide

2008-03-05T04:59:00.000-08:00

Build quality:

Some head units are flimsy and weak. Some are built to last. Usually the best way to determine this is by the weight of the unit. Also, check to see if anything doesn't "fit", or if there are parts that are cheap or flimsy. The truth is this: The bigger name units tend to be better. Also, the more expensive units tend to be better. This isn't always a big deal for everyone, but I believe that build quality is very important.

Basic Head Unit Features:

Power output:

Most head units have built-in amplifiers. These drive the speakers. Some head units do not have internal amps, and therefore, require the use of an external amp. Head units without amps are usually high-end models. Anyway, power is measured in WATTS. We'll talk more about watts later, but for now, just see more watts as more volume. Most head units (unfortunately) are deceptive about the power output. Usually, the power output spec on a unit will say "50Wx4 MAX output". This means that when the laws of physics are on your side, it's a clear day everywhere in the world, the planets are aligned, the bass hits really really low and hard, and for about a tenth of a second, yeah, your head unit will put out 50Wx4. However, most of the time, your head unit is probably putting out a quarter of that. It's not that the head unit manufacturer is lying, it's just that they are exaggerating the truth, AND MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW BETTER. So, anyway, many people put a lot of importance on a head unit's power output. I don't because head unit amps suck, and no serious car audio person uses the head unit's amp anyway. Most head unit brands have about the same power output anyway. 9 times out of 10, an aftermarket head unit will put out more power than your factory head unit, and as such, will sound better.

RCA Preouts:

These are used to connect external amps to your head unit. These are the same red and white cables that you use for your home system. Basic head units usually have one set of preouts (front left, front right). Some head units have two sets (front left, front right, rear left, rear right), but most decent head units have 3 sets (front left, front right, rear left, rear right, subwoofer left, subwoofer right). One quick note about subwoofer outputs: Sometimes they're called "non-fading" outputs because they are not effected by the head unit's fade control (front to back balance). If you're not planning on adding an external amp, you don't need to worry about RCA pre-outs. If you want to add an external amp (or amps), I would always recommend getting a unit with three pre-outs.

RCA Pre-out voltage:

Usually this spec is next to pre-out spec. It is measured in VOLTS (which we'll go over later). Basically, the higher the voltage, the LOUDER the music will be at your amp. Don't look at this as "free power" because it is not. In addition, the higher the voltage, the less noise that will be introduced to your system. Again, this spec doesn't matter if you don't plan on using an external amp. If you do plan on using an external amp, try to find the HIGHEST voltage you can. 2 volts is basic, 4 is standard for a good unit, sometimes you'll see units with 5 volts. I know Eclipse units have 8V(!) pre-outs. In short, more voltage=less noise and cleaner sound.

Digital time correction:

This is used to simulate a perfect stereo environment. If you're at home listening to music, you want to situate yourself in the middle of the two speakers to get the best sound. The same is true in the car, EXCEPT that it's a hell of a lot more difficult. Usually, the passenger side speaker will be farther from your ear than the driver side. Since sound travels fairly slow (comparfed to light), you'll have one ear receiving a portion of sound before the other ear. The digital time correction delays the music slightly so your ears will be perceiving the same music at the same time. This is a very important feature if you are planning an SQ system.

Crossover:

This feature is incorporated into many components in a car audio system. If your head unit doesn't have it, don't worry. Just be sure your amps have it. Basically, this makes sure the right speakers are playing the right sounds. I will go into more detail about crossovers later.

Equalizer aka EQ:

This feature allows you to tweak the sound. The most basic EQ is a two-band, and controls BASS and TREBLE. Some head units have 3-bands, BASS, MIDS, TREBLE. More advanced head units have 5-band EQs. If you are serious about tweaking your sound to perfection, you won't use your head unit's EQ; You will get an external unit, and some of these units have 30 bands! I will go into much more detail about EQs later.

Theft Deterents/Security Features:

There are a few options when it comes to head unit security:

Detachable Faceplate:

The most common method is a detachable faceplate. Basically, you remove the faceplate of the unit (where the screen and controls are), and the unit won't function. This will deter thieves, but please don't leave the faceplate in your car. Thieves know most people do this, and will still break into your car, find the faceplate and steal your head unit.

Password:

Some other units have a password function. When the unit is disconnected from power, then reconnected, the unit will require some sort of password. The unit will not function until the password is provided.

Key CD:

A few units use a key CD. Basically, the first time the unit is used, the unit will ask for a key CD. You insert any CD, and the unit will now designate that CD as the key CD. If the power is disconnected, the unit will ask for the key CD before it will function again.

Black out face:

When the unit is off, the head unit has a completely black face with no visible buttons or controls. Come on. Criminals aren't so stupid that they can't see that the head unit still has its face attached.

Hidden faceplate:

This is common for DVD players with screens, and one unit that I used to own, the Alpine CDA-7998. Basically, the face folds into the head unit, and looks exactly like a unit with the faceplate removed. Neat, but the unit is still vulnerable.

In short, all of these tactics are imperfect. Pick the one that makes the most sense to you, however most units only have a detachable faceplate feature.

CD Changer controls/Optional equipment interface:

This is a feature that allows you to connect other peripherals to your head unit. These peripherals are often CD changers, digital music players, satellite radio units, and video equipment. With this feature on your head unit, you'll be able to add additional capabilities to your stereo system in a convenient way. However, most of these interfaces are only compatible with the same brand. In other words, you'll need an Alpine head unit with the Ai-net interface connected to an Alpine CD changer with the Ai-net interface.

Remote Controls:

Some head units have remote control capability. This is a handy feature because you can control the headunit without taking your eyes off of the road.

OK, so these are some of the features of head units. Now, let's look at the specs of specific types of head units.

Tuner Features:

Most head units have AM/FM capability built in. Check out this information on getting the best AM/FM performance possible.

Presets: This feature allows you to save your favorite radio stations, and instantly recall them at the push of a button.

HD Radio: A new radio format that is close in sound quality to CDs. Basically, a radio station broadcasts their usual programming, but with an additional signal that can be received by units with "HD radio" capability. The availability of units with this feature is still small, and most radio stations haven't yet embraced the technology. I do expect this technology to take off, however because the sound quality is better, and not everyone wants to pay for satellite radio.

RDS: AKA "Radio Data System". A new feature for FM radios. This technology makes it possible for radio stations to transmit text to your receiver. This text can be used to show the station title or the artist name, and other information.

FM Sensitivity: The ability of your unit to tune into a weak signal

FM Selectivity: The ability of your unit to reject interference from other stations.

FM Stereo Seperation: The ability of a tuner to recreate the proper left/right channel sepearation.

CD Players:

CD-R/CD-RW Playback: This feature guarantees that your unit will play a CD-R or CD-RW that was made with a CD recording device.

CD-Text: This feature displays CD text information that is encoded on some CDs. This information includes artist names, song titles and album titles.

MP3/WMA/iTunes Playback: This spec assures you that certain digital file formats can be played back on certain units.

ID3 Tag Display: Displays text (such as song title and album name) encoded into MP3 files.

DAC: Digital to Analog converter. This device takes the digital signal from your CD, and turns it into an analog signal for your amp. The better your DAC, the more "real" your sound will be.

CD Frequency Response: The range of frequencies that the CD player can reproduce. It should at least cover the 20hz-20,000hz range.

Electronic Shock Protection: This feature prevents your CDs from skipping. If your head unit doesn't offer this, don't buy it. However, most players have it, and technology has gotten pretty good lately, so it's unlikely that you'll have any problems with skipping.

Signal to noise ratio (s/n): A measure of how well a CD player silences noise. The higher the rating, the less noise.

Zero Bit Detect mute: When the CD player detects a series of 0's on the CD (such as between songs), it will automatically mute the output. This feature isn't really important, but is often advertised.

Oversampling: The CD Audio format has a resolution of 16 bits, with a sampling rate of 44.1khz. What the hell does that mean? I really don't know, but think of a digital picture. Zoom in really close to this picture, and you see pixels. Think of each pixel as a sample. When you increase the pixels, you increase the sharpness and quality of the picture. When a CD player has oversampling, it takes the 44.1khz, and turns it into a bigger number. More samples=More realistic sound. Confused? I know. I am too, but a unit with oversampling will sound better than one without. Of course, the good news is that pretty much every unit these days has this feature.

Tape decks:

Auto Reverse: A feature that will automatically play the reverse side of a tape at the end of a side.

Dolby noise reduction: There are many Dolby technologies incorporated into tape decks. Most of these features exist to lower tape hiss, and raise the signal to noise ratio.

Frequency response: Again, the frequencies the tape deck respond to. Normal human hearning is from 20 to 20,000 hz.

Wow and flutter: This spec tells you how stable the tape deck playback speed is.

Now that you know some of the features of head units, you are ready to buy the right unit for YOU.

Alan Bayer is an entrepreneur and Car Audio enthusiast. He currently resides in some lame suburb in northern California.

He owns an eBay business http://stores.ebay.com/honest-aebs-autosound/, and the website http://www.honestaebs-caraudio.com/.

I also have a newsletter at my website. Check it out!

MySQL Database Handling in PHP

2008-03-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

Most interactive websites nowadays require data to be presented dynamically and interactively based on input from the user. For example, a customer may need to log into a retail website to check his purchasing history. In this instance, the website would have stored two types of data in order for the customer to perform the check the customers personal login details; and the customers purchased items. This data can be stored in two types of storage flat files or databases.

Flat files are only feasible in very low to low volume websites as flat files have 3 inherent weaknesses:

The inability to index the data. This makes it necessary to potentially read ALL the data sequentially. This is a major problem if there are a lot of records in the flat file because the time required to read the flat file is proportionate to the number of records in the flat file.
The inability to efficiently control access by users to the data
The inefficient storage of the data. In most cases, the data would not be encrypted or compressed as this would exacerbate the problem no. 1 above

The alternative which is, in my opinion, the only feasible method, is to store the data in a database. One of the most prevalent databases in use is MySQL. Data that is stored in a database can easily be indexed, managed and stored efficiently. Besides that, most databases also provide a suite of accompanying utilities that allow the database administrator to maintain the database for example, backup and restore, etc.

Websites scripted using PHP are very well suited for the MySQL database as PHP has a custom and integrated MySQL module that communicates very efficiently with MySQL. PHP can also communicate with MySQL through the standard ODBC as MySQL is ODBC-compliant, However, this will not be as efficient as using the custom MySQL module for PHP.

The rest of this article is a tutorial on how to use PHP to:

Connect to a MySQL database
Execute standard SQL statements against the MySQL database

Starting a Session with MySQL

Before the PHP script can communicate with the database to query, insert or update the database, the PHP script will first need to connect to the MySQL server and specify which database in the MySQL server to operate on.

The mysql_connect() and mysql_select_db() functions are provided for this purpose. In order to connect to the MySQL server, the server name/address; a username; and a valid password is required. Once a connection is successful, the database needs to be specified.

The following 2 code excerpts illustrate how to perform the server connection and database selection:

@mysql_connect("[servername]", "[username]", "[password]") or die("Cannot connect to DB!");

@mysql_select_db("[databasename]") or die("Cannot select DB!");

The @ operator is used to suppress any error messages that mysql_connect() and mysql_select_db() functions may produce if an error occurred. The die() function is used to end the script execution and display a custom error message.

Executing SQL Statements against a MySQL database

Once the connection and database selection is successfully performed, the PHP script can now proceed to operate on the database using standard SQL statements. The mysql_query() function is used for executing standard SQL statements against the database. In the following example, the PHP script queries a table called tbl_login in the previously selected database to determine if a username/password pair provided by the user is valid.

Assumption:

The tbl_login table has 3 columns named login, password, last_logged_in. The last_logged_in column stores the time that the user last logged into the system.


// The $username and $passwd variable should rightly be set by the login form
// through the POST method. For the purpose of this example, were manually coding it.
$username = john;
$passwd = mypassword;
// We generate a SELECT SQL statement for execution.
$sql="SELECT * FROM tbl_login WHERE login = '".$username."' AND password = '".$passwd."'";
// Execute the SQL statement against the currently selected database.
// The results will be stored in the $r variable.
$r = mysql_query($sql);
// After the mysql_query() command executes, the $r variable is examined to
// determine of the mysql_query() was successfully executed.
if(!$r) {
$err=mysql_error();
print $err;
exit();
}
// If everything went well, check if the query returned a result  i.e. if the username/password
// pair was found in the database. The mysql_affected_rows() function is used for this purpose.
// mysql_affected_rows() will return the number of rows in the database table that was affected
// by the last query
if(mysql_affected_rows()==0){
print "Username/password pair is invalid. Please try again.";
}
else {
// If successful, read out the last logged in time into a $last variable for display to the user
$row=mysql_fetch_array($r);
$last=$row["last_logged_in"];
print Login successful. You last logged in at .$last..;
}

The above example demonstrated how a SELECT SQL statement is executed against the selected database. The same method is used to execute other SQL statements (e.g. UPDATE, INSERT, DELETE, etc.) against the database using the mysql_query() and mysql_affected_rows() functions.

About The Author

This PHP scripting article is written by John L. John L is the Webmaster of The Ultimate BMW Blog! (http://www.bimmercenter.com).

The Ultimate BMW Blog!

daboss@bimmercenter.com

Top Bluetooth Wireless Headsets

2008-03-04T16:32:00.000-08:00

Bluetooth headsets make up one of the fastest wireless markets here in the US and around the world. Headsets with Bluetooth wireless technology are capable of working with a variety of other Bluetooth enabled devices such as cell phones, PDAs, and digital music devices (like the iPod). Unlike conventional headsets, Bluetooth headsets do not require wires of any sort, but rather receive information from your portable device through 2.4GHz radio waves. The range of communication for most headsets is somewhere around 10 feet, which is usually plenty long.

Not surprisingly, there are a wide variety of Bluetooth headsets out there, and it really comes down to tastes in styles and preferred features as to which one is right for you. You'll want to make sure, for instance, that your Bluetooth device - whether it be an iPod, laptop, or PDA - will work with your chosen headphones. Here we list below some of the most popular Bluetooth headsets and their relevent features.

Logitech Mobile Bluetooth Headset

Logitech's Bluetooth headset is a real competitor in the market. It is a solid product with a dependable brand name, fully capable of providing sound connection between your cell phone and the headset. The device is entirely compatible with most major Bluetooth phones, but you may have to look into its compatibility with other devices. Like most headsets, the device can clip easily to either ear. It comes with an adjustable, swing-out boom that includes a noise-blocking microphone. The battery unit is rechargeable and is capable of giving you about 7 hours of talk time.

Motorola Bluetooth Headsets

Motorola currently has two stylish Bluetooth headsets on the market: the HS810 and HS820, and one soon to be released: the HS850. The HS810 and HS820 are very similar in style and shape.

Both devices are, of course, Bluetooth enabled and can thereby communicate with Bluetooth 1.1 compliant devices, including handsets, PDAs and computers. The device is compatible with the Motorola V600 and V710 phones. The HS810 and HS820 both weigh about 20 grams, and the HS820 has a slightly longer talk time range of 6 hours, compared with the HS810's 5 hours max. They both can run on standby for 100 hours. The HS820 has the ability to communicate with your phone up to 33 feet away, and is equipped with a couple nice features: conference call and voice dialing. The HS810 sells for $99.00 and the HS820 for $79.00.

Information concerning the newest headset by Motorola, the HS850, has just recently been released. Those lucky enough to have tested and reviewed this device have, so far, given it high marks. Like it predecessors, the HS850 has a simple yet attractive design. The main casing is black, with silver around the control area (image below). One of the more innovative features of this device is the flip-on connection system that enables the headset to connect with your phone as soon as you flip it open.

Jabra FreeSpeak Bluetooth Headsets

Jabra, a leading provider of hands-free communication devices is optimistic about its newest headset the Jabra FreeSpeak FS258 released recently in Malaysia. Weighing only 23 grams, the FS258 is the lightest behind-the-ear device produced by Jabra. The company is encouraged by a new trend in the US towards banning the use of cell phones while driving is some states, such as New Jersey.

Bradley James is a senior editor at SciNet.cc, a website containing many helpful consumer electronics review articles. For more information on Bluetooth wireless technology, please visit our Bluetooth headset webpage.

Homosexuality, Homophobia And The Christian Right

2008-03-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

Focus on the Family says that they do not promote hate but yet when I was there (at Focus on the Family), I watched a video saying that homosexuals were out to attack families and that homosexuals had an agenda to ruin them.

This to me is funny and very sad. Do you really think we are hatched or something? We also are human beings and have families. It is very sad for me, especially my family that the Christian Right tries to pass laws that do not allow gays any basic rights. Two examples would be basic domestic partner benefits and hospital visitation rights. Additionally, the Christian Right believes it to be okay to fire someone for having a homosexual orientation. This to me is crazy. How is that equality? The problem is that you are unable to look at a homosexual and see the person/individual. You refuse to see good, just a pathological sexual deviant.

The Christian right chooses to demonize homosexuality as if it is all bad. Sexual orientation is simply that, it is sexual orientation. It is whom we are attracted to sexually and emotionally. We see heterosexuals who abuse their sexual orientation with sex/drug/alcohol addictions and other problems just as homosexuals. But yet you do not pathologize heterosexuality. Additionally, it is preached that homosexuality is a sickness and these people are the cause of AIDS. In fact, most AIDS cases are from heterosexual relations. Also, AIDS is a worldwide problem that affects people from all over the world. The Christian Right argues we need to focus more on medical issues like heart disease than AIDS. I do not agree because most heart disease cases are found in the US and Europe mainly because of poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Examples include but are not limited to not getting enough exercise, smoking, high saturated fats, etc.

It is important to note that homosexuals can have healthy loving relationships as well. But you will not look at that. Instead, you turn to a scripture on Sodom and Gomorrah. I have read that scripture many times and it does not speak about homosexuality. That scripture is clearly about rape. It is about men that want to have sex with other men against their will. The scripture also does not lie about how women were viewed in the older Hebrew society, and how women at that time lived in a clearly sexist culture. Hence, Lot attempts to give these men his daughters for them to have sex. I never hear anyone ever say how insane that is. Let's cut to the chase here and say that rape is unacceptable whether it is homosexual or heterosexual. Again, the problem is that Christian Fundamentalists lump us all in one category. We are pathologized. The sad thing is that there is no awareness of that. Thus, this is why homosexuals are a marginalized population and continue to be marginalized.

I am an openly gay man. My sexual orientation is big part of my life but not everything. I have a partner, a family, a relationship with my parents, and relationship with my sister, brother in law and my nieces and nephews. I am close to all of them. However, I still have to worry about being called faggot on the streets and have had employers preconceive ideas (negative) about who I am because of my sexual orientation. Additionally, I have had my life threatened numerous times simply because someone thought I was gay. You see, my mother, who is Catholic woman, told me that she does not worry about me catching AIDS but rather she worries about me being gay bashed and murdered.

This is her biggest worry. So, where does this hatred come from? I believe that it comes from churches and authorities in higher institutions such as the government. For example, the military and their don't ask don't tell policy. Clearly, we know what this says about gays. This sets up a good/bad tier system regarding sexual orientation. Again, gay is bad. So I wonder, what is the evidence of that? According to the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association and the American Counseling Association, there is no supporting evidence that suggests a significant difference between how homosexuals and heterosexuals deal with life and their problems. Fundamentalists, such as Focus on the Family take a few examples and then lump gays into one category, which says we are ill and sick.

The Christian Right ignores or fails to recognize that heterosexuals do and have behaved in similar ways that they say homosexuals do. When a gay person does something wrong, Fundamentalists are quick to point out that we all do it, further perpetuating false, untrue beliefs about all homosexuals. This clearly makes it more difficult to exist in the world. Despite my loving family and the loving support I have from them, I still have to live in this world. I must work and I must go to the grocery stores and malls. I have been almost gay bashed three times after leaving a gay bar with friends at different times and different places in my life in this so called free country. So you really do not understand the power that you have as preachers or pastors? The unfortunate piece is that when you preach that homosexuality is evil, others take those views and believe it. They believe they should and have the authority to enforce them. They may be verbal slurs or even result in violence. I know you say you don't promote this but it happens and these people (your fellow Fundamentalist Christians) use the bible and religion to perpetuate hate by engaging in this verbal and physical violence.

That is how oppression is perpetuated and this is why gays are still a marginalized population. Christians do not have to worry about walking down the street with their husband or wife and get slurred or harassed based on being who they are. Men and women can hold hands together or kiss in public. I do not have that right; otherwise I could get gay bashed. It has happened to my partner and me where we have been threatened when walking home from a grocery store. So no I do not believe that heterosexuals or Christians are a minority. I do not think you clearly understand what it means to be oppressed or be lumped into a category. Gay people have lost their lives because of their sexual orientation and that is THE REALITY.

I believe what you might have been referring to is that you are experiencing an out lash from a group of people tired of being oppressed. I am sorry you have to deal with that but that is what happens when a wounded dog gets backed into a corner. We have seen that happen in other oppressed groups in the United States. Gays have been wounded by an oppressive society and thus we fight for our BASIC RIGHTS. We fight for ourselves, our partners and our families, so that we can live the life that heterosexuals already live. I have hope one day that my partner and I could hold hands and express affection in public.

I don't because it worries him. He does not know how to defend himself and so I do not want him to be harmed. I love him too much for that to happen. However, this does anger me because in my family, I was taught to express my emotions and affections. I learned to love in my family and was taught that you told the ones you care about how you feel. I also learned to express my affections in order to make my future partner feel special. I know you probably won't validate what I have said but it is true. We are human beings with emotions and feelings.

In fact, we are all more the same than different. Maybe one day you will really look at what it means to be Christian, to be Christ like. And as far as I know, Christ understood people, loved them, respected them and validated them. I believe these are the values we need to teach people. We need to look at people individually. We should not judge groups of people and lump them into categories. Thus, in my life and the way I live, I want to look at the individuals and not judge groups of people. I realized that if I lumped people into groups, I would not be able to like anyone on this planet. And in my opinion, there is too much beauty and love in certain people that I don't want to miss out. This includes everyone from all groups!

Barry Aneda is a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Associate Counselor working with our GLBTQ community in the field of Addictions and HIV/AIDS.

For more information you can reach him at http://www.barryaneda.com To visit his virtual office, simply click the link titled Visit My Virtual Office.

Make Money In A World of Endless Opportunity

2008-03-04T04:09:00.000-08:00

Giants crush you. Even in fairy tales it's rare to find a nurturing giant even lady giants are tough critters. And there are lots of giants on the web; all the world's biggest offline companies plus the web's home-grown efforts - Google, Amazon and the like.

So how can you, sitting in your fabled pajamas at the kitchen table make money against that lot? Well, until recently there was no way to really explain what everyone was telling you based on instinct, self-interest or outright ignorance: there is room for everyone on the web.

It's called the long tail: the economics of abundance' and its guru is the editor of Wired Magazine Chris Anderson. Now don't let that put you off, this is fascinating stuff! The summary is simple: regular offline business is ruled by scarcity, digital business simply isn't!

Take a record store. They have so many feet of shelves and each CD takes up say half an inch. Result, the store can only carry so many CDs. So what do they do? They carry the ones that sell the most the hits.'

Now take iTunes: there is literally no limit to the inventory iTunes can carry. It sits in digital form and could be every song in every version ever recorded! The same is true of books: which is why Google is trying to snaffle them all first, and Apple is driving into video.

So what has this to do with you? Well two things: first the big web marketers have discovered that if you offer everything, "everything sells something!" Hence the term long tail.

Imagine the profile of a mouse standing on her back legs nose pointing in the air! The body of the mouse is the hits' with the biggest hit being the nose. The tail of the mouse (infinitely long) is the sales of everything else. The regular record store holds inventory corresponding to the body of the mouse. But, if you hold the inventory for free and it costs nothing to deliver it, then any sale out of the tail is pure profit! Wow! That's the economics of abundance: and it's only right now being understood.

But, I hear you object, that's records, books, and videos. True, but the same applies to everything where the restrictions of scarcity are removed.

What's eBay but a long tail of gazillions of real things? What's Amazon, the long tail of books and anything else they can get their hands on? So it continues the used book business after languishing for decades is booming after the dispersed and happenstance inventories held by individual stores were linked together into a single online database. The books are still in the stores, but the sales are global!

Now if you are an Amazon, or a Salesforce.com in software, or any of the other aggregators' of the long tail', you have five problems:

1. You need to put together the technology to hold the inventory and disperse it expensive and technically finnicky, but straightforward

2. You need to create the tools that customers can use to search the long tail which is VERY long. Search engines, recommendations, reviews all kinds of tools are emerging to provide filters at no cost to the company once they are in place.

3. You need to get your hands on the longest tail you can. Easier now Apple has broken through with the record industry, but really difficult if you want to have a long tail of TV shows because of the problem of tracing down the music rights. Google may be in a battle, but the stakes in the ancient book long tail are huge hence its determination to scan everything ever published.

4. You need to capture the emerging long tail. These are the products and creative offerings that have not yet been conceived. You do this by giving away the tools of creation. Give away (virtually) the software to create new music and provide a guaranteed market.

5. You need to meet the sales needs of the provider whether they are trying to make a go of it commercially or doing it for reasons of personal satisfaction. Put your book on Amazon and you can go in and tweak the marketing and this is just the beginning.

So what are the implications for web home-based businesses?

It means first you can expect sales no matter if you are 1st or 5,000th on the tail.

It means you can find a place on the web through an aggregator for what ever you produce.

It means that multiple channels of distribution are opening that can have different roles in your mix. Let's take a concrete example, that new book you just wrote.

* Well you could sell it yourself in electronic form, or

* Convert it into a physical book at Lulu (a 'tail' of self-pubished books) and end up with electronic and soft/hard copy versions yielding a higher net return.

* Lulu will submit it to Ingrams the book wholesalers and so it will find its way to the long tails run by Amazon, Barnes & Noble and the rest for a different, lower return but a much higher exposure and access to the recommendations system.

* You could sell it through Clickbank a long tail of Affiliates and make 50% margin.

* Finally, you can sell or liquidate it through eBay!

If you have something to offer, a tail is emerging that you can join. And most important, it's in everyone's interest to keep the tail growing. On the web we have invented the nurturing giant'. To me that spells perpetual opportunity!

And that's no fairy story!

Michael Kay is Research Director of HBB Research a business school based research program looking at web home-based business. He is the lead author of HBB Research's recent Report: The Gold Rush. To For more on The Gold Rush and to get your free subscription to HBB Insights, the ideas newsletter of HBB Research, go to http://www.hbbresearch.com/.

Is There A Home Remedy For Acne Scar Removal?

2008-03-03T21:26:00.000-08:00

While there are several acne medications available on the commercial market, both prescription and non-prescription, not everyone is sold on using synthetic products and ingredients to help them treat their acne scarring. Many are concerned about the effect such treatment might have on their skin. So rather than use commercial synthetic products, they have turned toward finding a home remedy for acne scar removal.

It's important to consider when seeking a home remedy for acne scar removal that these treatments generally work best when applied to mild cases of acne scarring. Yet, if combined in the right way and applied for the right amount of time they can address any level of severity of scarring. Remember that when using a home remedy treatment you may need to apply it for three to six months to fully remove the scars, as these methods work with the natural healing propensities of the body, assisting the skin to repair and maintain itself.

One of the first things to consider when looking into a remedy for acne scar removal is the PH balance of your skin. Improving the PH balance of the skin has proven to lead to healthier skin. Luckily, there is a fairly common household item that can be used for this treatment which is also a natural PH balancer. Baking soda puts the skin back into proper PH balance.

The best way to use baking soda is to make a paste by mixing it with water. Apply to the skin and rub it in gently, letting it dry. Leave on the skin for about fifteen minutes (or even over night), and remove with warm water. Once removed, use a small amount of moisturizer on the skin as this treatment will tend to dry the skin. Doing this several times a week will help the skin to remain clear while supporting its natural radiance.

Another easily found ingredient in the home which works well on acne scars is lemon juice. Lemon juice is a citric acid that is part of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) group. The AHAs slough off dead skin cells, help new cells grow underneath, and give elasticity to the skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may wish to forego treatment with lemon juice. Lemon juice, because of its acidic nature, stings. If your skin can stand the stinging then this treatment may hasten the fading of acne scars which according to some reports seem to fade twice as fast when used. It can be left on over night or used under makeup in the mornings.

Another plant substance known for its curative effect is aloe vera juice or gel. Aloe vera is known for its healing ability to assist in fading and preventing scarring. It actually works to cleanse and purify the skin pores while reducing the size, redness, and soreness of existing acne. One brand sold over the counter has found many who swear by its curative effects. Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel is not only inexpensive to use, but helps transform skin to a more even colored look while soothing the inflamation caused by acne. The only drawback to its application is that it stings the eyes for about five minutes when it is first applied. But other than this it works very well to promote healthy skin while fading scarring.

One other popular remedy is to mix fresh cucumber and tomato juice. This remedy tightens up the pores and reduces redness. Apply the juice evenly to your face, and leave it on for about fifteen minutes. Then wash it off with warm water. If this sounds like too much work to prepare, another method involves cutting a tomato in half and rubbing the cut side gently over the face.

To learn about a more natural acne treatment regimen, see the following article Natural Acne Treatment Tips to obtain more information about how you can treat this condition yourself.

Stress: Eliminate it From Your Life and Make Happiness Your Normal Lifestyle

2008-03-03T14:01:00.000-08:00

Is happiness and the feeling of gratitude what you feel on a daily basis or is stress and the feeling of being overwhelmed seem like a normal lifestyle? Has the feeling of being overwhelmed become so familiar that you don't know any other way to live your life?

Being happy is a choice you face every day. To feel happy, whose responsibility is it? Do you depend on another person or thing to make you happy? Who is the only person who can make you happy?

If you're struggling with the rough road of answering these questions, then it's time to change your mindset and take responsibility for your own happiness. Its time to figure out how to break the old mindset, get rid of the negative tapes or the thoughts that are not serving you to break free of frustration and stress. To strive for the "sigh of relief" feeling you get when you let go and learn to live a lifestyle of more ease, happiness and fun.

Finding balance in your personal and professional life can help you enjoy the feeling of peace within and true happiness. Yet, this is a huge challenge today for most people. Our lives seem busier than ever with the feeling of a "fast-paced get stuff done" type of lifestyle. Although everything around you can contribute to the very severity of your stress levels, stress is truly self-inflicted.

Here are three tips on how to shift your energy to help make happiness and joy your normal lifestyle:

1) Be aware and recognize the stressful situation by noticing where it is showing up in your body. Do you have tension or aches and pains in your shoulders, neck, chest, or stomach? Pay attention to what your body is telling you. This is your red flag.

2) Accept the situation. It is what it is. Yes, life can be very challenging at times. Now ask yourself: "Do I really want to continue feeling this way? If I keep feeling this way, will this make the situation better? How can I help myself?"

3) Are you familiar with the Laws of Attraction? Maybe you have heard the expressions, What you think about, you bring about or The more attention you give to something, the more attention it will give to you. Be the chooser of your thoughts! Feel the power within.

Recognize if your feelings are low energy or high energy. Several examples of low energy are stress, negativity, fear, resentment, worry, despair or a sense of lack (lack of time or money). High energy is joy, abundance, happy, positive, appreciation, love or compassion. Notice how you are feeling just by saying the low and high-energy words. Which words dis-empower you? Which words empower you?

If you are having feelings of low energy, how do you make a shift to feel more of the high energy?

As mentioned in step two, acknowledge and accept the feelings you are having. Be gentle with yourself. Your goal is to make a shift, but realize you might not be able to go from low to high instantly. Start with baby steps.

How to shift from low energy to high energy -- select a method that works best for you or use a combination. Before choosing a method, imagine you are standing at the bottom of a set of stairs. As you help yourself shift to higher energy, you will be able to step up to the next step. Keep amping up your high energy and before you know it, you will be at the top of the stairs. Isnt it great up there? Here are a few methods to get you started:

1) Become present in the moment by observing everything around you this very minute. Use all your senses. Put yesterday's worries and tomorrow's concerns aside and think about only the present moment! Observe everything around you as if you had to describe it to someone over the phone.

2) Focus on what is working right in the situation and build on that. Yes, you may be facing a very challenging situation, yet try to find something that is working or going right, no matter how small to help you move forward.

Think about it...does it seem that people or situations around you have changed or is it you who has really changed? So, who has the power to feel their own joy and happiness? You dobe the chooser.

Joanie Winberg

Frequent Urination At Night Can Be Treated

2008-03-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

A simple nasal spray controls nighttime urination in men who were not helped by drugs usually prescribed by physicians today. Researchers in Taiwan prescribed a nasal spray containing antidiuretic hormone to older men who urinated more than six times each night and had not been helped by conventional treatments (British Journal of Urology International, December 2005.) More than 85 percent improved in a very short time.

During the day, your kidneys clean your body by producing large amounts of urine. When you go to sleep at night, your brain produces a hormone called anti-diuretic hormone, or ADH, that shuts down your kidneys so you can sleep at night.

The brains of most younger people produce enough antidiuretic hormone to shut down the kidneys for a full night of rest. However, as men age, most have to get up at night to urinate. Some men have to do this more than six times a night, which interferes with sleep and makes them very tired during the day. Most doctors prescribe muscle relaxants and some patients find that they help. However, a very large percentage of older men go from doctor to doctor and are unable to find a drug that will control their night-time urination.

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com

Free weekly newsletter on fitness, health, and nutrition.

Copyright Owners - How to Protect Your Work

2008-03-03T01:15:00.000-08:00

Daniel Woolsey is being sentenced for felony in California. He was caught selling pirated copies of Autodesk's AutoCAD(R) software. Additional counts for selling other pirated software, including Adobe PhotoShop, were dropped as part of a plea bargain agreement. "This case should be a wake up call to copyright violators that they can face serious consequences. Autodesk will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies . . . to protect our valuable intellectual property . . . ." said Sandy Boulton, director of Piracy Prevention at Autodesk.

Why should photographers care about this? Because we don't want our intellectual property - copyrights/trademarks/trade secrets - stolen from us. When we share that music file with a friend or copy Photoshop from a colleague, we are perpetuating the problem, even if it is on a small scale. Is it ok to steal a pack of gum but not a car?

Here's what you can do to keep people from stealing your images. First, don't steal others' work. Stop the cycle.

Second, like the software companies, make your work difficult to steal. Don't put large files on the web. Put a watermark on them. Track them on the web with a program such as "Digimarc." www.digimarc.com Include a delivery memo with your photos to document what you are sending. Specifically identify the limited rights you are granting to any user. Put your name and contact info with your images. Include your copyright notice on all of your work.

Third, just like the Autodesk company above, prosecute those who steal your work. Send the message that it's not ok to steal the gum or the car.

Take my advice, get professional help.

--- ABOUT THE AUTHOR ---

Carolyn E. Wright, Esq., has a unique legal practice aimed squarely at the needs of photographers. A pro photographer herself, Carolyn has the credentials and the experience to protect photographers. Shes represented clients in multimillion dollar litigations, but also has the desire to help new photographers just starting their careers. Carolyn graduated from Emory University School of Law with a Juris Doctor, and from Tennessee Tech Univ. with a Masters of Business Administration degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in music.

She wrote the book on photography law. 88 Secrets to the Law for Photographers," by Carolyn and well-known professional photographer, Scott Bourne, is scheduled for fall 2005 release by Olympic Mountain School Press. Carolyn also is a columnist for PhotoFocus Magazine.

Carolyn specializes in wildlife photography and her legal website is http://www.photoattorney.com.

3 Habits That Sabotage Workplace Success

2008-03-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

1. Never Feeling Good Enough -

Are you constantly evaluating everything you do and generally finding fault. Do you have an internal voice which critiques you on everything, seeing only the negatives, not the positives? This voice is often described as a "gremlin." When you are feeling not good enough it can show up by your being indecisive, relying on others to direct you, using language of uncertainty and even having poor posture. Generally there is a feeling of self doubt.

Clearly a change is necessary. First, you need to become aware of your limiting beliefs and in what situations they occur. What actions do you take which might be perpetuating these beliefs?

Sam was recently promoted to a managerial position and was both excited and scared about his new responsibilities. He knew that a lot of his colleagues were envious of his promotion, which added to the pressure he already put on himself. He evaluated and re-evaluated everything he said and did, to the extent that he was immobilizing himself. His "gremlin" was in high gear.

Sam worked with his coach to identify what he needed to change and what action steps were necessary. The result was his "gremlins" went into retirement and he had strategies in place if they returned.

2. Avoiding Conflict -

You are by nature a peace keeper. You like everyone to be happy and agreeable. The problem is that in life there is always some level of disagreement and conflict and how we deal with it can become the problem.

In the workplace, managers need to be able to manage conflict. Your team members will not always agree or like each other. They might not agree with you or like what you are telling them. What if their job performance is interfering with the goals of the company or the team's morale? How will you deal with it? Avoiding conflict could be an obstacle to your taking on more of a leadership role.

Joyce disliked conflict, but recognized that if she wanted to be seen as a leader she would have to step up. She worked with her coach to develop a 3 step action plan.

1. Acknowledge the conflict.

2. Invite the other person to have a say and listen to their perspective.

3. Jointly develop a game plan for change.

Acknowledging out loud what a challenge conflict was for her, allowed her to "own" it and make changes.

3. Poor Boundaries -

We have all known someone who has trouble saying "no," and therefore might get into situations where they are doing more, but are stressed and unhappy about it. Sometimes people take advantage of them because of this weakness. Being able to set limits about what you can and can't do is an extremely important skill. Assess your team. Is there someone who has trouble saying "no?" If so, what can you do to help them?

There are other issues which also fall under the category of poor boundaries: being aware of when, where and with whom you speak; the issue of confidentiality. What is the forum and policy for discussing client information? At some companies conversations may inadvertently occur in corridors or at restaurants where talk might be overheard by others. At times there can be a fine line between sharing information and gossiping. Your job as manager is to help create the guidelines and structure, so everyone is clear.

Changing habits is hard work. It has been said that it requires 21 times of doing something in order to make it a habit. If you would like support and accountability to figure out ways to turn unhelpful habits into positives please contact me.

Gail Solish, provides Executive/Personal coaching to managers, directors and executives focused on workplace development and relationship management.

Claim your FREE e-course "Unleash Your Potential and Increase Productivity and Fulfillment" at http://www.ActualizeYourGoals.com

Food On TV

2008-03-02T11:58:00.000-08:00

For some time now I have been watching an Emmy-winning television personality and author who hosts at least four different programs on U.S. cable television's Food Network. Rachael Domenica Ray, has become one of my favorite culinary experts as her energetic personality and her smile have been enough to keep me in front of the TV screen to watch her teach simple recipes that she claims can be prepared in thirty minutes or less.

Being an amateur cook myself, I was pleased to discover that she shared the same view that I have in relation to food measuring. As she emphasized, "it takes away from the creative, hands-on process of cooking." Her "eyeball it" expression has stayed with me every time I am about to experiment with something new and taste my efforts. Even though she has been heavily criticized for her appearance, her voice, her gestures and her energetic manner, I declare to be one of her funs, at least in relation to her recipes.

But over and above Rachel, I was amazed to discover that the U.S. television has a cable channel totally devoted to food preparation, at-home entertaining, restaurants, food and eating habits. The New-York based Food Network reaches more than 85 million households and it is broadcasted to other countries as well due to its interesting programs and live shows.

One of the most famous this channel broadcasts is that of "Emeril Live." As a kid, Emeril Lagasse worked in the local Portuguese bakery and today he is one of the most famous culinary personalities. After opening a series of successful restaurants, hosting popular TV shows and becoming one of the most recognizable chefs of all time, Emeril Lagasse remains devoted as ever to using fresh, top-quality ingredients and employs cottage industry ranchers, farmers and fishermen to ensure that he always gets the best. He constantly invents new recipes, much to the delight of his regular customers and the fans of his Food Network specials and shows "Emeril Live" and "Essence of Emeril."

From what it seems, the Food Network is committed to exploring new, different, and interesting ways to approach food - through pop culture, adventure, and travel - while also expanding its repertoire of technique-based information. The only thing I have to wish to its management team and its shows is the best of success for the rest of 2006 and for the years to come.

Kadence Buchanan writes articles for http://wonderfulworldoffood.com/ - In addition, Kadence also writes articles for http://homeimprovementstation.com/ and http://outdoorstalk.net/

I Love Italian Wine and Food - The Sardinia Region

2008-03-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for fine Italian wine and food, consider the Sardinia region of southern Italy. You may find a bargain, and I hope that youll have fun on this fact-filled wine education tour.

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean, located in the Tyrrhenian Sea west of mainland Italy. Sardinias terrain is mountainous, and its beaches are excellent. Sardinia is known for archeological ruins and has become a tourist destination for the international jet set. Because of its exceptional location Sardinia has always popular, Invaders include Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Spaniards, without mentioning numerous Italian peoples. During part of the 18th and 19th Century it was united with the northern region of Piedmont in the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia. The population is about 1.6 million.

Sardinias administrative center is Cagliari, an ancient university town on the southern coast of the island. Its population is approximately one hundred sixty thousand. The famous author D. H. Lawrence compared this beautiful city to a White Jerusalem. Another city of interest is Sassari, which has the best collection of Sardinian art.

Sardinia is Italys leading source of organic produce, and includes nearly one-third of Italys land cultivated biologically. The climate is subtropical and more than half the territory is devoted to pasture land. Food is plentiful, it is said that there are over 500 kinds of bread, perhaps one for every village. The inland is full of meat, including lamb, goat, pork and game, while the coast teems with fish, lobster, and eel.

Sardinia devotes about 107 thousand acres to grapevines, it ranks 8th among the 20 Italian regions. Its total annual wine production is about 28 million gallons, giving it a 12th place. About 57% of the wine production is red or ros (only a bit of ros), leaving 43% for white. The region produces 19 DOC wines and one DOCG wine, Vermentino di Gallura, one of the two DOCG wines produced in southern Italy. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. The G in DOCG stands for Garantita, but there is in fact no guarantee that such wines are truly superior. About 15% of Sardinian wine carries the DOC or DOCG designation. Sardinia is home to almost dozen four major and secondary grape varieties, about half white and half red.

There are no widely grown international white grape varieties in Sardinia. The best known Italian white varieties are Vermentino, Nuragus, and Vernaccia.

Widely grown international red grape varieties include Cannonau, known as Garnacha in Spain, and Grenache in France and elsewhere, and Carignano, known as Carignan in France. The best known Italian red variety is Monica, which probably originated in Spain, and may be related to Californias Mission grape variety.

Before we review the Sardinian wine and cheese that we were lucky enough to purchase at a local wine store and a local Italian food store, here are a few suggestions of what to eat with indigenous wines when touring this beautiful region.

Start with Melanzane in Pinzimonio, Smoked Eggplants in Mint-Basil Oil.

As a second course try Aragosta Arrosto, Roasted Lobster with Parsley and Bread Crumbs.

For dessert indulge yourself with Seadas, Pastry with Cheese and Bitter Honey.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY While we have communicated with well over a thousand Italian wine producers and merchants to help prepare these articles, our policy is clear. All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed

Sella and Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna (V) DOC Reserva 2003 13.5% alcohol about $12.50

Cannonau wine may qualify as the mother of all European wines. It is made from the Grenache grape, which originated in Spain. The producer, Sella and Mosca, has the second largest contiguous vineyard in Italy. Over 6 million bottles are year are produced on an estate of more than 1500 acres. Some will say that such a humongous estate is unlikely to produce an outstanding wine. Such a claim may be incorrect, but this wine was far from outstanding.

The marketing materials stated that this wine is more or less ruby in color, tending to orange upon aging, with a light scent of grapes with a characteristic flavor ranging from dry to sweetish. It was aged three years in oak prior to its release and may be cellared for a decade or more. The wine is said to be particularly suitable to accompany red meats and seasoned cheeses. Uncork it at least one hour before serving.

I found that it had quite a light color for a red wine. To my mind, it was thin but pleasant with very little nose. I first tasted it with a rib steak marinated in a spicy sauce. This pairing brought out the fruit, and the wine was pleasantly acidic, but I would have preferred a more robust wine to balance the meat. I finished the bottle withy barbequed hamburgers, and it didnt go quite as well. The wine was weak, perhaps affected by staying too long in the bottle.

Pecorino Sardo is a traditional sheeps milk, semi-cooked hard cheese that comes in a "sweet" or "ripened" variety. The sweet variety is soft, and the ripened variety is hard. My cheese was ripened and treated with balsamic vinegar. A commercial roasted eggplant with sweet red peppers accompanied the wine and cheese. Everything went well together, the nutty flavors of the cheese balanced the wines fruit. In conclusion, I liked the wine best with the cheese. I dont plan on buying this wine again, I found it a bit overpriced. Even though it didnt cost a lot, one might have thought that a mass-produced wine from Sardinia would be somewhat less expensive.

Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but to be honest, he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. His wine website is http://www.theworldwidewine.com. You can reach him at ital@mail.theworldwidewine.com.

Herbs and Herbal Teas

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Herbs have been important contributors to the quality of human life for thousands of years. Throughout history plants have served mankind as valuable components of seasoning, teas, cosmetics, dyes and medicines. The term herbs is used to refer not only to herbaceous plants but also to bark, roots, leaves, seeds, flowers and fruit of trees, shrubs and woody vines.

Recently there has been a resurgence of interest in the use of herbs. Various herbal teas are used in place of caffeine-containing beverages. Dietary recommendations encourage the use of herbal seasonings to flavor food as a way to cut down on the use of table salt.

Safe Herbs used in Seasoning:
Caraway
Cardamo
Coriander
Dill
Oregano
Garlic
Onion
Saffron
Sage
Sweet Basil
Thyme
Tumeric

Some view herbal products as natural remedies for the treatment of varied disorders and illness. Self-prescribed herbal preparations are widely used for a whole host of common conditions including insomnia, arthritis, colds, coughs, ulcers, allergies, constipation, infections, high blood pressure, intestinal disorders, premenstrual syndrome, headaches, fever, anemia, weakness, aging, stress, nervousness, sexual disorder, and indigestion.

A number of herbal products, such as aloe vera, blue-green manna and bee pollen, have been promoted as possessing special healing and health-promoting properties. One should always be wary of products that are sold as cure-alls, miracle food supplements of panaceas. While the fresh juice of aloe vera may promote wound healing when applied externally, the commercial gels, ointments and creams containing aloe vera have no therapeutic and cannot be retained over time. Furthermore, experiments are unable to verify that blue-green manna (algae) has any significant health-promoting properties. Likewise, it has not been proven that bee pollen has valid use as a general tonic, or that can help in weight reduction, stop premature aging or serve to improve ones athletic performance.

Unsafe Herbal Teas:
Arnica
Goldenseal
Morton tea
Snake root
Black cherry
Gordo lobo
Nutmeg
Tansy ragwort
Bloodroot
Groundsel
Oleander
Tonka bean
Buckthorn
Jimsonweed
Pennyroyal
Tu-san-chi
Burdock root
Kavakava
Periwinkle
Water Hemlock
Cohosh
Lobelia
Poke root
Woodruff
Comfrey
Mandrake
Sassafras
Wormwood
Elderberry
Melilot
Senna
Yohimbe
Foxglove

Safe Herbal Teas:
Alfalfa
Fenugreek
Hyssop
Rose Hips
Blackberry
Feverfew
Lemon Grass
Rosemary
Chamomile
Flaxseed
Orange
Sarsaparilla
Chickweed
Ginseng
Peppermint
Savory
Chicory
Gotu Kola
Psyllium
Slippery elm
Dandelion
Hibiscus
Raspberry
Spearmint
Echinacea
Hops
Red Raspberry
Valerian
Fennel
Horehound

Guidelines to Follow

1.Avoid buying unlabeled loose or bulk teas.
2.Be alert to the toxicities of certain herbs.
3.Refrain from considering herbal beverages as natural panaceas.
4.Read labels carefully, so that only prepackaged teas with safe ingredients are used.
5.Used moderate amounts of those teas with safe and effective constituents.
6.Drink no more thatn1-2 sups of tea per day on a regular basis, since the long term effects of drinking most herbal teas in large quantities is not known.
7.People who show allergic response to ragweed, asters, or chrysanthemums should avoid all teas containing marigold, yarrow and chamomile flowers.
8.Pregnant women should especially use caution in drinking any herbal tea since few have been thoroughly tested for safety. Before using any herbal tea, a pregnant woman should first consult with her physician. Likewise young children should be restricted in their use of herbal teas.

Super Profitable Techniques for Selling Books By Mail

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The total number of books sold by small, part-time mail orderentrepreneurs is growing each year. Total sales each year for thepast five years have increased by almost 30-percent over theprevious year's sales.

Two "angles" have greatly contributed to this phenomenalgrowth in total sales.

One is the practice of offering a wide selection of books via"mini-catalogs" The other "angle" is the practice of sendingthese "mini-catalogs" to prospective buyers as "inserts" inprinted materials the prospect has already ordered.

Mini-catalogs are usually printed on 8 1/2 x 11 sheets ofpaper, then folded in half along the length, and simply slippedinside the covers of a magazine or the folds of a newspaper.Often-times, a mini-catalog is folded and sent out as aself-mailer. Both of these methods of obtaining circulation arevery profitable.

A book-selling "mini-catalog" is made up of a "full-pagecommercial" on the front page. This is your main sales thrust, orprimary attempt to sell a "featured" book with ease of yourmailings. The second, third, and half of the last page of themin-catalog should be two columns of listings of other books youhave to offer.

Each listing should consist of the title of the book offered,followed by a short description of either the book itself, or howthe book can benefit the buyer. This is then followed by thecatalog number of the book, and the price.

The bottom half of the page of your mini-catalog should bedevoted to your customer order coupon. The "mini-catalog" shouldbe typeset, and printed on a different color of paper for eachmailing. Recent sales results indicate that the better qualitypaper your mini-catalog is printed on, the more sales it bringsin for you.

Once you've got a mini-catalog with which to advertise yourbooks, you must bring all your efforts to bear on the problem ofobtaining maximum circulation of your mini-catalog among theprospective book buyers.

The easiest and least expensive method is as follows: Check atyour newspaper offices for a listing of all their distributorsand/or route carriers. Contact these people and ask them to giveyou a price they would charge to include one of yourmini-catalogs with each paper they sell or deliver. Determine howmany "mini-catalogs" you'll need for this kind of distributors,have that number of mini-catalogs printed, hand them out to yourcontracted distributors and newspaper carriers; then sit back andprepare to fill book orders. It's simple and easy, but best ofall it really results in big profits for your book-sellingbusiness!

Another simple method would be to line up students fromdifferent junior high schools in your area, and pay them each $10per thousand to deliver your mini-catalogs door-to-door. If youhave junior high school age children, this could be the easiestand least expensive method of distribution for you.

Major cities also have professional distributing services whichdeliver advertising material to the residents. Check your localphone directory for their names and addresses.

The orders which you develop through the local distributionmethod can be filled by mail.

To expand your market beyond the local area, you need tosolicit the business by mail. Several excellent books areavailable on developing sales by mail. Follow these steps then sit back and prepare to fill book orders. It's simple and easy.

Note to editors:
To show my appreciation to the editors that use my articles, I offer a free solo ad. Simply send an email to me by using the form on the contact me page on my website to tell me the url the article was used on or send me a copy of the ezine it was used in.

DeAnna Spencer is a virtual assistant that helps entrepreneurs run a successful business by providing affordable administrative help. She also publishes a blog for small business owners. Visit this small business resource today.

New Business Loans UK Enter Business Field Through Easy Finance

2008-03-01T11:56:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for financial assistance so that you can start a new business in the UK? You have this option for applying a new business loan that is especially designed keeping in view the requirements of a new business in the UK.

Depending on the amount you want to borrow and as per your personal circumstances, you can opt for secured or unsecured new business loans. In case of greater amount for starting a new business, secured new business loans should be opted for. You would be offering your home or any valued property to the lender as security. The lender will approve greater amount depending on value of home or any property. But the main advantage is that secured new business loans UK are approved at lower interest rate. Low rate makes the loan repaying fairly easier and it is not a burden on the loan. Another advantage is that secured new business loans can be paid back as per the business persons repaying capacity. You can repay the loan in larger duration also if you want to reduce monthly outgo for the loan installments.

Unsecured new business loans UK are given without demanding any security from the business person. Thus the loan is completely risk free for new business people. However for covering risks, lenders charge higher interest rate on unsecured new business loans. You would be approved smaller amount for shorter repaying duration.

And new business people should not worry about past bad credit history. Secured or unsecured new business loans in the UK are approved with ease for bad credit new business borrowers as well. The loan approval for such borrower will depend on prospects of the business and a convincing loan repaying plan in place.

Banks, financial companies and online lenders can be applied for in order to get new business loans in the UK. However compare lenders first and take rate quotes for a suitable deal. See if the lender provides loan for your type of business or not. And pay off the loan in time so that new loans can be easily taken at easier terms for the business.

Tim Kelly is an expert in finance having completed her LLM in Finance (Master of Laws in Finance) from Institute for Law and Finance at Frankfurt University. She is currently working with Businessloans.uk.com as a financial advisor. To find New Business Loans UK, small business loans uk, business loans uk, business loan uk visit http://www.businessloans.uk.com/