My Thoughts

Top Ten Father’s Day Gifts Dad Might Actually Like

2010-05-11T14:14:00.003-05:00

Neckties, “#1 Dad” coffee mugs, IOUs for chores around the house – these are the Father’s Day gifts most of us have given dad at one time or another. While these and many other traditional Father’s Day gifts might bring a smile to dad’s face, chances are you could have offered a better, more enjoyable gift. To truly surprise and amaze dad this Father’s Day, be sure to check out our list of the top ten gifts dad might actually like.

1. Lucky Tiger's Casino Royale kit – Father’s Day gifts that lend dad the opportunity to reveal the youthful, discerning and devilish look he desires are few and far between. Consider giving dad the Lucky Tiger Casino Royale kit, a first-class collection of men’s grooming products made from Certified Organic ingredients that stands apart from traditional Father’s Day gifts. The Lucky Tiger Casino Royale kit features a premium face wash, shave cream, after shave, face moisturizer and eye serum that will keep him well prepared for any adventure waiting around the bend.

2. A SmileBooks Photo Book – Do you have a dad who is a sucker for sentiment? A SmileBooks photo book, complete with a customized collection of some of your favorite moments in time, will put a permanent smile on his face at the turn of every page. Create a photo book yourself using images from Flickr, Picasa, Facebook, and more, or take advantage of SmileBooks’ design service and assign a professional story editor to create it for you. Simply select from seven photo book sizes, choose a hard or soft covered photo book and create a professionally bound photo book that dad will cherish forever.

3. Golf Lessons with a PGA Pro – The perfect gift for the golf lover, a private lesson with a PGA pro Certified Instructor will take dad’s golf game to the next level. In just one lesson, dad will learn strategies and techniques that will last a lifetime, each one customized for his specific skill level. The certified instructor will focus on any areas of dad’s game that he wishes to improve – dad can even select the course location and lesson date most convenient for him. Covering anything and everything from proper alignment, grip, posture, ball position, swing mechanic, and more, this private lesson makes one truly special Father’s Day gift.

4. Heritage Professional Stainless Steel BBQ Tool Gift Set – With Father’s Day commencing in the beginning of summertime, this deluxe stainless steel BBQ tools set could not be any more appropriate. Named the best overall BBQ tools set by The Wall Street Journal, this popular set from Heritage has everything dad needs to realize a professional-grade barbecuing experience. The 10-piece heat and rust resistant set includes a grill light, 3-in1 waiter’s corkscrew, spatula, knife, fork, tongs, basting brush, two skewers, a cleaning brush with scraper and the Heritage computerized Super-Bright Chef’s Fork featuring a built-in thermometer with 16 doneness levels. Perfect for both day and nighttime cookouts, this gift set is a hands-down winner for the BBQ-loving dad.

5. 3-Month Bourbon of the Month Club Membership – Tantalize dad’s taste buds and encourage his classy ways with a 3-month Bronze membership at the Bourbon of the Month Club. Dad will enjoy three Premium Bourbons, each one recognized among the most prestigious tasting blends in the world, delivered to his door in beautifully handcrafted Small Batch bottles (one 750 ml bottle sent each month). The perfect Father’s Day gift for the true connoisseur, the 3-month Bourbon of the Month Club membership allows dad to explore many varieties of Bourbon such as Woodford Reserve Small Batch Bourbon, Knob Creek Bourbon, Bulleit Bourbon, and many more.

6. L.L. Bean Leather Messenger Bag – A stylish day bag dad can use for both business and travel, the L.L. Bean messenger bag made from soft, full-grain textured leather keeps dad organized and trendy at the same time. This leather messenger bag is available in attractive black or brown leather, offering functional features including an internal organizer for a cell phone, PDA, ID card, pens, and more. Dad can also gain easy access to papers and other essentials through a zippered back pocket and front panel sleeve. Additional features include a traditional buckle clasp, adjustable shoulder strap, antiqued-brass hardware, contrast stitching and durable full lining.

7. Indochino Custom Dress Shirts – A fashionable, custom-made dress shirt from Indochino altered to a perfect fit will help dad look his best at a moment’s notice. With various shirt patterns, colors and fabrics to choose from, you can help dad stay up to date with his impeccable style. Indochino offers some great incentives, too, including cuff, collar and other customization options as well as free alterations and 2-week shipping.

8. Casio Exilim EX-S8 Digital Camera – The sleek, sturdy body of the Casio Exilim EX-S8 digital camera is just the tip of the iceberg. Fresh and fashionable, this feature-rich digital camera, measuring just .78” thin, houses a 2.7” high-density LCD screen that projects a 4X zoom at 12.1 Megapixels. Dad will love everything about the Exilim, including its best shot program, face detection technology, customizable focus frames and YouTube Capture Mode, a new feature that enables the uploading and sharing of videos. Available in five bold and bright colors, the Casio Exilim EX-S8 is the chic and modern on-the-go digital camera.

9. Chocolate Gift Basket Classic – Sweet Decadence – A chocoholics dream, the Sweet Decadence chocolate gift basket includes a unique combination of award-winning gourmet chocolate treats that are guaranteed to warm dad’s heart and fill his stomach this Father’s Day. This classic gift basket features chocolate covered almond pecan crunch, chocolate cherries, chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate brownie cookies, a signature dark chocolate bar, chocolate dipping sauce with pretzels, chocolate toffee and a chocolate snack mix – everything dad needs to satisfy his sweet tooth.

10. “I Love You Dad” Personalized Father’s Day Wood Plaque – No Father’s Day would be complete without saying those three special words. The “I Love You Dad” Personalized Father’s Day Wood Plaque gives you a way to say them with an added touch of warmth and remembrance. This 7” x 9” plaque features a Father’s Day poem that will remind dad that he means the world to you. Best of all, you can personalize the “I Love You Dad” Father’s Day plaque with any title and two-line custom message. Slotted holes provide for easy mounting on any wall that dad would like to see it.

The Top Seven Sentimental High School Graduation Gifts

2010-04-14T15:17:00.001-05:00

High school graduation presents a time to remember – and a time to move forward. Before the high school graduate ships off to college, be sure to check out the following top seven sentimental graduation gifts guaranteed to plant a seed of endless memories in the heart and mind of the graduate.

1. A Custom Photo Book from SmileBooks.com – Create the perfect sentimental gift for the high school graduate who loves to freeze every special moment in time. A custom photo book from SmileBooks.com turns ordinary photographs into a professionally bound collection of all the precious memories that you can cherish forever. Choose from seven great photo book sizes, available in a hard or soft covered book, then create your own photo book using the free SmileBooks.com software and your own digital photos. This unique gift promises to deliver an everlasting message of congratulations.

2. As You Leave for College Reflections Frame – Give the gift of sentiment that will mark the special transition between high school and college. The As You Leave for College Reflections Frame features a poem, either a standard one or one written by you, along with a title printed onto a lovely canvas of shimmering glass. Include a photograph of the high school graduate on their special day to complete this one-of-a-kind sentimental gift.

3. Personalized Graduation Photo Cube – Print one of five inspirational quotes, or a personal quote written by you, onto the Personalized Graduation Photo Cube, which features skillfully engraved inspiring words and four different photos of the high school graduate. Personalize this natural-colored wood grain photo cube with the graduate’s first name and graduating class to add the finishing touch on a unique gift of sentiment.

4. “Best Friends” Float Frame Gift – For the high school graduate who never wants to let go of his or her close friends after graduation, give the “Best Friends” Float Frame. This personalized photo frame holds a 4” x 6” photo. Add their name and a few special words that the graduate can bring along to college, providing for endless memories that warm the heart in an instant.

5. Personalized 2010 Graduation Frame Sculpture – The year 2010 holds a special place in the heart of your high school graduate. Made from solid wood, the Personalized 2010 Graduation Frame Sculpture holds two 3” diameter photos of the high school graduate that appear inside of the zeros in the year 2010. Add any two-line message up to 50 characters per line to the sculpture to personalize this creative and fun sentimental gift.

6. Star Graduate Keychain - The “key” to any great graduation gift is sentiment, and with the Star Graduate Keychain, you can offer the high school graduate something that will make them proud. Engrave this silver 3” x 2” star charm with the graduate’s name on one side with the school acronym and graduation year on the other. Attached securely to a round key ring, the graduate can add this gift of sentiment to their personal set of keys for a special reminder of their accomplishment.

7. Class of…Athletic Graduation Personalized T-Shirt – Give the high school graduate a sentimental gift to show their school spirit and pride in their own accomplishment. The Class of…Athletic Graduation Personalized T-Shirt features anything you want it to say, available in three shirt colors with over 15 text colors to choose. The graduate can proudly sport their last name, name of their high school and graduation year all on one premium cotton/poly blended athletic T.

Chemical Dependency, Drug Rehab and Long-Term Recovery

2010-03-17T14:40:00.002-05:00

Drug addiction is not an overnight process, but instead a serious health condition that took a long time to develop and, most likely, requires an even longer time to fix. Remember, drug addiction results in changes to both your way of thinking and behavioral habits, making it an extremely difficult problem to overcome. Fortunately, with the help of a licensed drug rehabilitation center, individuals struggling from drug abuse and addiction can learn new strategies to overcome their addiction and live a fulfilling life free from chemical dependency.

Philosophies on Drug Rehabilitation
There are many philosophies on drug rehabilitation, which may vary from one drug rehab center to another. Perhaps two of the most common philosophies on drug addiction are that:
1. Drug addiction is a disease, which can be treated but not cured. According to this philosophy, drug addiction carries progressive, chronic and sometimes fatal signs and symptoms.
2. Drug addiction, characterized by a lack of will power, is curable.

Why You Should Go to Drug Rehab
Regardless of which philosophy you choose to believe, it is important to understand that by following the steps of a drug rehabilitation program, long-term recovery is possible. In fact, many individuals not only overcome their addiction through drug rehabilitation, but also gain confidence in overcoming an enormous obstacle while realizing great happiness in starting a new life.

Types of Drug Rehabilitation
There are many types of drug rehabilitations available, including specialized centers such as Christian drug rehab, senior citizen drug rehab, drug rehabilitation for women and gay or lesbian drug rehab – each one aimed to make the patient feel comfortable throughout their recovery.

What to Expect in Drug Rehabilitation
When considering drug rehabilitation for substance abuse and addiction, an individual should look for a facility that offers the following services:
• Drug Detoxification – Drug detox safely rids the body of all toxins. Medically monitored drug detoxification generally takes place under the supervision of a 24-hour nursing staff, complete with medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
• Inpatient/Residential Treatment – After detoxification, patients enrolled in inpatient (or residential) drug rehabilitation are encouraged to participate in group, individual and family therapy until he or she is well enough to return home and maintain recovery. By receiving treatment in an inpatient center, patients can focus entirely on their recovery, without the stresses and triggers of everyday life.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Mental Illness – Dual diagnosis is a form of treatment that addresses the coexistence of a drug addiction and psychiatric disorder such as depression, Bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
• Relapse Prevention Planning – Essential for long-term recovery, relapse prevention plans aim to make individuals in recovery aware of their triggers in order to prevent a return to substance abuse and other destructive behaviors.
• Aftercare – Aftercare is a part of the relapse prevention plan that aims to keep your drug addiction in remission. This is a long-term plan often based on the philosophy that ongoing support is necessary for a full recovery. The drug rehabilitation staff may design this plan before your treatment is complete.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, Recovery Connection can help!

5 Dirty Games That will Make Your Sex Life Hotter!

2010-03-11T10:19:00.001-06:00

This might be hard to believe, but it's actually possible to make your sex life even hotter. The key: fun sex games.

1. Truth or Dare
Write out five dares -- anything from trying on a sexy outfit to a silly stunt -- on separate pieces of paper. Place them in a bowl. Now take turns asking each other naughty questions, such as, "What's the most unusual place you've ever wanted to have sex?" If you don't answer, dip into the pot and select a dare.

Click the link below to read more.
http://ideas.thenest.com/love-and-sex-advice/sex-questions-advice/Articles/5-down-n-dirty-sexy-games.aspx?cm_sp=HP-_-Hed1-_-down-dirty-sex-games

Natural Products Expo West

2010-03-04T09:50:00.006-06:00

Natural Products Expo West is the premier trade show for the organic and natural products industry. Natural Products Expo West is expected to have over 50,000 people attend and around 1,900 companies within the organic and natural products industry attend. Not only is Natural Products Expo West a good opportunity to network with professionals in the industry companies will have the opportunity to meet new potential customers and partners. Many companies such as Lucky Tiger and At Last Naturals will be demonstrating their products or will be giving out free products to anyone who visits their booth.

Military Lending

2010-02-18T08:40:00.023-06:00

To all active military personal, do you need extra cash for the little surprises life throws at you? Do you need extra cash to pay a medical bill, car repair, buy a car, consolidate debt or just go on vacation? Have you considered taking out a military loan with a military lending service? There are plenty of military lending services out there happy to lend to active military personal with little, bad , or even no credit.

Omni Financial, a military lending service has been a trusted name in military lending for 59 years and is happy to lend active military personal $500 - $10,000, with low interest rates for up to 36 months. Companies like Omni Financial go one step further by approving the borrower within 24 hours and allowing the borrower 15 days to cancel the loan. So whether you need a new transmission or a new television Apply for a military loan with Omni Financial today!

Did You Know They Went to Rehab?

2010-01-13T16:24:00.001-06:00

In today’s world, it often comes as no surprise when we hear news reports about celebrities struggling with substance abuse. News broadcasts, TMZ, MTV and other popular sources rarely hesitate to reveal the stories about the stars who have fallen victim to alcohol and drug abuse. You probably thought you had a fairly solid grasp on who has been using and who is getting the help they need. Despite constant media coverage and society’s obsession with celebs, however, we are willing to bet that you may not have heard about the following six superstars taking the plunge into a rehab program.

1. Mel Gibson – Arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, Academy Award winning actor/director Mel Gibson entered an ongoing rehabilitation program in July 2006.

2. Mary Tyler Moore – Believed to be a result of both real-life and onscreen tragedy, legendary actress Mary Tyler Moore entered a rehabilitation program for alcohol addiction in 1982 and checked into the Betty Ford Clinic for treatment for alcohol abuse two years later.

3. Ben Affleck – Oscar-winning actor Ben Affleck checked himself into a live-in rehabilitation facility in July 2001 after he decided that a “fuller life” free from alcohol awaited his smart and self-aware personality.

4. Bo Bice – Authorities charged the runner-up to Carrie Underwood from the fourth season of American Idol with purchasing cocaine at a strip club in 2001. Later arrested for the possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia (and for public intoxication), Bice avoided jail time by agreeing to enter a drug rehabilitation program.

5. Dennis Quaid – In 1989, news reports revealed that actor Dennis Quaid was battling a cocaine addiction. Quaid’s drug problem led him to undergo substance abuse treatment the following year, shortly after his role beside Meryl Streep in the 1990 movie “Postcards from the Edge.”

6. Haley Joel Osment – Charged with one count of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of possession of marijuana, courts ordered Haley Joel Osment, the star of the 1999 box office smash The Sixth Sense, to attend six months of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Courts also ordered the 18-year-old Osment to undergo 60 hours of alcohol rehab and education.

With the right Drug Rehab Program or Alcohol Rehab Program you can get the help you need to become sober and stay sober. Don’t wait any longer Call our Alcohol and Drug Rehab Center now 1.800.875.0909.

New Years Eve at the Palms!

2009-12-28T11:09:00.003-06:00

Checking out this video which is basically a review of the New Years Eve at the Palms last year. It looks sick, the clubs, the music, the drinks, kid rock etc. This year looks sick too. For $475 you get unlimited access to all the clubs. Rain will have Paul Oakenfold, Playboy Club will have Maroon 5, Moon will have Z-Trip, and Ghostbar will have Flashback Heart Attack which is the 80's all over again. I'm not going to be able to make it to Vegas for New Years Eve this year but it makes me want to start planing out new Years Eve for next year.

http://www.n9negroup.com/newyears/

Cambridge Who's Who Professional Development Series

2009-12-23T14:44:00.001-06:00

What better way to advance in your career than to gain the advice of seasoned professionals? The "Cambridge Who's Who Professional Development Series" is an educational tool that gives you a first-hand look at the stories and experiences of leaders across all industries. Through exclusive video interviews, you get special access to the important principles, practices and steps they took to achieve success that you can apply to your personal and professional life. The best thing about the series is that it provides you with this information in an engaging, fascinating and easy-to-grasp format that can be readily shared with friends, family, and colleagues.

The "Cambridge Who's Who Professional Development Series" currently includes five chapters on the following topics:

Branding and Marketing: The Right Way to Attract Attention

Strategies for Successful Networking

Business Financing: Tips to Transform Your Ideas into Reality

Motivation: Finding the Strength to Move Forward

Proven Sales Techniques

In each chapter, key points are highlighted on a virtual note pad, alerting you to the critical puzzle that will have the greatest impact on your success.

We look forward to your feedback on what you like about "Cambridge Who's Who Professional Development Series" and what needs to be improved. We are also interested to know what topics you are interested in learning about that we have not yet addressed in the series. Email networking@cambridgewhoswho.com with your comments and suggestions.

Top 12 Perfumes and Colognes You Need To Buy Just Because Of The Bottle

2009-12-07T10:25:00.002-06:00

Perfumes and colognes aren't just nice to wear; they are also nice to look at. Designed by artists, perfume and cologne bottles are beautiful in and of themselves. If you love scents that look as good as they smell, check out this list of the top 12 perfumes and colognes that are housed in gorgeous works of art.
Colognes:
1. Diesel Green – Form meets function with this funky green fragrance bottle featuring a cool retro-style spray top.

2. Jean Paul Gaultier – An unconventional bottle echoing the male torso is the signature look of this mesmerizing designer fragrance.

3. Salvador Dali – Created by the design house of Salvador Dali, this cologne bottle reflects the unique, surreal style favored by the Spanish painter.

4. Cuba Black by Cuba – A large cigar-shaped bottle is a beautiful vessel for this Jasmine and woodsy scent.

Perfumes:
1. Thiery Mugler Angel – An angelic glass shooting star bottle as unique as its scent. The bottle is refillable so you can continue to use and enjoy its dreamlike design.

2. Marc Jacobs Daisy - As fresh as a daisy. A single sophisticated white daisy accented with a gold center wraps around this sweet, unabashedly feminine perfume bottle.

3. Betsey Johnson by Betsey Johnson – As fun and funky as the designer herself, this bright, colorful and attention-grabbing bottle is inspired by 1950s art deco. A little vintage, a little pop art and all Betsey flair.

4. Azzaro Now by Azzaro – A curvaceous perfume bottle that pushes the edge of sensual design. Modern, sexy and fresh…just like the fragrance itself.

5. Bvlgari Omnia by Bvlgari – This unique perfume bottle depicts two interlocking rings reflecting the enticing combination of wood and floral scents.

6. Gwen Stefani Harajuku Lovers – Gwen Stefani's popular fragrances are bottled in adorable, fashion-forward fragrance dolls that have quickly become hot collectibles.

7. My Insolence by Guerlain – A beautifully feminine perfume bottle with tier-like glass circles. The design hints of a rose and of the pink fragrance's sweet scents of almond blossom, vanilla, tonka bean, raspberry, patchouli and jasmine.

8. Cofinluxe Watt Pink – A bright idea in perfume bottle design. This lightbulb-shaped spray bottle will light up your dresser with pink pizzazz.

Axis Three

2009-10-16T10:58:00.005-05:00

Axis Three is a highly advanced tool used to help demonstrate the the effects of cosmetic surgery before the cosmetic surgery has ever started. The way Axis Three works is, you approach this machine that looks like it should be at a gym, you spread your arms out and let it take a picture of you. Pictures are taken at different angles so Axis Three's computer can create a 3-d model of you.

The cosmetic surgeon can now use the 3d model to show you what you currently look like, after going into the computer and changing your measurements he can then accurately show you what you would look like if you had a breast augmentation. The only surgeon I know who is using Axis three is Dr Stephen Greenberg on Long island. Its cool the way Axis Three can show you exactly what you would look like if you were a cup or two bigger making, it easier to make the final decision whether or not to get a breast augmentation.

The Top Seven Halloween Treats of 2009

2009-10-14T10:38:00.003-05:00

In the spirit of Halloween, most of us celebrate by dressing up in spooky costumes and collecting candy door-to-door, but the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Halloween treats make a great addition to the holiday and are perfect for giving to classmates, teachers, family members and friends. If you want to say something more than “Happy Halloween” this October, do it with one of the top seven Halloween treats of 2009.

1. Giant Skull & Cross Bones Decorated Cookie – If you thought the original Skull & Cross Bones cookie was something special, just wait ‘til you see it 4 times larger! The 10-inch diameter, hand-decorated Giant Skull & Cross Bones cookie makes a huge impression, serving 8 to 12 trick-or-treaters or party guests! Personalize your giant cookie with a message or stamp the traditional “Happy Halloween” across the top of the skull, then serve and enjoy!

2. Scrumptious Skeletons – When it comes to homemade Halloween treats, there aren’t too many that are easier to make than the deliciously popular Scrumptious Skeleton. Start out by baking a fresh batch of chocolate-frosted cupcakes, and top each one with a miniature marshmallow, serving as the head of your Scrumptious Skeleton. Use black decorator’s gel to create the eyes and mouth, and draw a stick figure with white icing attached to the marshmallow head, complete with a couple of short horizontal lines across the stomach and chest for ribs. The result is a fast, easy and tasty Halloween treat!

3. Spooky Halloween 7-Way Snack – If you can’t decide which treat you want the most this Halloween, you don’t have to! The Spooky Halloween 7-Way Snack takes the guesswork out of choosing a Halloween treat by supplying you with a 2-gallon tin filled to the brim with five types of flavor-infused corn, including cheese, white cheddar, s’mores, chocolate drizzled caramel and kettle corn, along with Jazz mix and mini, sweet-coated pretzels. Best of all, you can personalize your Spooky Halloween 7-Way Snack by adding a personal message, photo, or both!

4. Halloween Tricks and Treats Jack-O-Lantern Gift Basket – Candy gift baskets make great party favors, and this exclusive Halloween Tricks and Treats Jack-O-Lantern is no exception. Stuffed with candy, popcorn and a Halloween teddy bear, this 8-inch diameter and 9-inch high Jack-O-Lantern holds enough tricks and treats to satisfy even the most avid Halloween enthusiast. A curious collection of assorted Hershey’s Miniatures, Plain and Peanut M&M’s, Skittles, Twizzlers, microwavable popcorn, marshmallow pumpkins, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Starbursts should help you spoil your appetite in the spectacular spirit of Halloween.

5. Halloween Treats Gift Tin – Celebrate the spirit of Halloween with this classic assortment of individually wrapped chocolate chip cookies, foil wrapped chocolate crisps, buttercream layered chocolate cookies, crunchy chocolate chip cookies and chocolate pretzel clusters. This 8” Halloween Treats Gift Tin is great for college students, teachers, family members and friends with an insatiable sweet tooth and love of all things Halloween.

6. Boo! Mania Halloween Chocolate and Candy Treats Gift Tower – Who ever said Halloween treats are strictly for kids? Send your friends, family members, co-workers or any Halloween-loving adult this Boo! Mania gift tower, filled with Halloween themed treats including marshmallow ghosts, pumpkin pretzels, candy corn and other treats that are as delicious as they are daunting. Carefully hand crafted and tied with a ribbon, each gift tower is arranged beautifully and includes a personalized gift message from you to the recipient.

7. Jack O Treats Halloween Candy & Toy Gift Basket – Prepare your child for a fun-filled and adventurous Halloween with the pumpkin carving kit, pumpkin flashlight and plush Halloween pal included in the Jack O Treats candy & toy gift basket. Also included in this jack-o-lantern pail is an assortment of Halloween candies and snacks to satisfy the sweet tooth of your sugar craving trick-or-treater. Handcrafting and attention to detail turn this gift basket into the most attractive Halloween sidekick in the neighborhood, ready to take on even more candy throughout your children’s big night out.

Twitter gets Cosmetic Surgery

2009-09-23T14:43:00.005-05:00

Dr Greenberg, a renown cosmetic surgeon in New York will be performing a breast augmentation on Twitter October 1st. As Dr Greenberg is performing, Dr Greenberg's assistant will be tweeting about each and every step of the breast augmentation procedure. This is a great free opportunity to get some insight on what really goes on during a breast augmentation procedure.

To follow Dr Greenberg throughout the breast augmentation click the link below
http://twitter.com/drgreenberg

The Top Five Most Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedures – Finding a Trusted Specialist

2009-08-17T15:37:00.005-05:00

When you are searching for that little change that can make all the difference in your life, it is important to do it the right way. The fact of the matter is,
millions of Americans seek cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance and gain the confidence they need to face the world with eyes wide open. Below is a list of the five most popular cosmetic surgery procedures and our recommendations for America's top specialists who perform them.

1. Brest Augmentation - Otherwise known as augmentation mammaplasty, breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breast. Breast augmentation is a very common plastic surgical procedure

among women between the ages of 18 and 70 who are seeking to:
• Correct and enhance their body contour with larger sized breasts
• Correct a reduction in breast shape or volume after pregnancy
• Balance a difference in breast size
• Lift "drooping" breasts

What is involved? The breast augmentation procedure usually involves implants and a variety of short infra-mammary incisions including under the breast, around the nipple, under the arm and through the belly button. These incisions generally heal without a visible scar, offering better long-term results and lower overall complication rates. Many specialists will individualize the procedure to your specific body, breast type and shape for the most natural results.

Recommended specialist: Dr. Stephen Greenberg – Several magazines and newspapers have recognized Dr. Stephen Greenberg as an expert in breast augmentation including Cosmopolitan, Health Magazine, Harpers Bazaar, The New York Times and Newsday. Awarded “Best Practice” for breast augmentation and “Best Cosmetic Surgeon on Long Island” in 2008 and 2009, we highly recommend Dr. Stephen Greenberg for a breast augmentation procedure. Visit http://www.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com to schedule a consultation.

2. Liposuction – Liposuction contours your body by removing unwanted fat and inches from certain parts of the body. Patients seek liposuction to reduce the size and shape of their abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, arms and chin, or any other stubborn area that does not respond to traditional weight loss methods. More common weight loss techniques such as dieting and exercising only shrink the fat cells in your body, where liposuction actually removes them.

What is involved? Most surgeons utilize a combination of tumescent liposuction, external ultrasounds and power assisted liposuction techniques to remove excess fat cells from specific areas of the body. Liposuction results in a smoother contour and a quick recovery with minimal pain or bruising. Expect a noticeable difference in your body contour almost immediately and a small amount of swelling that will continue to subside for a few months after the procedure.

Recommended specialist: Dr. Steven Teitelbaum, MD FACS – Based in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Teitelbaum is recognized as one of the top aesthetic surgeons in the United States, specializing in liposuction and body contouring. As an undergraduate studying anatomy and physiology at UC Berkeley, Dr. Steven Teitelbaum earned the award of valedictorian of his graduating class, at which point he went on to complete a full residency as a general surgeon at Harvard Medical School’s Beth Israel Hospital, serving as Chief Resident. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at UCLA Medical School. Visit www.DrTeitelbaum.com to schedule a consultation.

3. Face Lift – Face lifts are generally performed to restore a youthful look in aging people by lifting sagging cheeks, eliminating jowls and removing redundant skin and fat from the neck. In addition, a cosmetic surgeon may conduct a face lift procedure to correct and tighten both the skin and deeper muscular layers of the face for a natural, more youthful appearance. Face lifts are individualized to each patient depending on skin tone and bone structure, and are often a great alternative for:
• Those who have deep creases and redundant skin between the nose and mouth
• Patient s with jowl formation
• Uplifting the lower or midface
• Restoring the natural contour of the neck
What is involved? The average face lift procedure takes a few hours, involving a well-hidden incision which fades away nicely over time. Post-operation, expect minimal pink scars, very little pain and a sense of tightness and numbness that gradually returns to normal within several weeks. You will have some bruising and swelling that will resolve within a few weeks and you can return to normal activities within a couple of weeks.

Recommended specialist: Dr. Stephen Greenberg – Dr. Greenberg is a nationally recognized face lift Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon with practices in Manhattan and Woodbury, Long Island. He has appeared on CBS, Fox News, NBC and News12 Long Island and is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. Visit www.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com to schedule a face lift consultation.

4. Eyelid Lift – Also known as blepharoplasty, an eyelid lift corrects drooping eyelids and puffy bags from under the eyes. Changes usually occur around the eyelids with age and include the thinning of eyelid skin, loss of tone and susceptibility to gravity. These changes generally start in the 30’s and 40’s, progressing naturally with the aging process. In addition, fat pockets begin to develop in both the upper and lower eyelid, making your eyes look baggier and more tired as you age. A blepharoplasty is often the best alternative for patients looking to:
• Tighten droopy or hooded eyelids
• Restore contour to the lids
• Eliminate unwanted fatty bags under the eyes
• Correct asymmetries between the eyelids

What is involved? A cosmetic surgeon performs a traditional blepharoplasty by making an incision along the lash line for the lower eyelid to remove the excess skin and fat. Patients generally undergo a 1 - 2 hour procedure under sedation or general anesthesia, with minimal to mild discomfort and bruising post-op and a return to work in 4-10 days. Most swelling from the procedure subsides within 1-2 weeks and patients can return to exercise within 3-4 weeks.

Recommended specialist: Dr. Joseph O’Connell – Dr. O’Connell is a board certified plastic and anesthetic surgeon located in Westport, Connecticut specializing in cosmetic surgery. Dr. O’Connell is a graduate of Cornell University Medical College and a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Visit www.PlasticSurgeryCT.com to schedule a consultation.

5. Nose Reshaping – Also known as rhinoplasty, nose reshaping changes the size and shape of the nose to correct any defects in the functionality of the nose or improve facial appearance. Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the nose by changing the underlying cartilage and bone. The procedure is commonly sought by patients to:
• Correct the size of the nose
• Remove the “dorsal hump” or bump on the nose
• Change the width of the nose
• Define and correct the top of the nose
• Correct breathing problems
What is involved? Cosmetic surgeons perform rhinoplasty either under general anesthesia or with local anesthesia, depending on the specific needs of the patient. The procedure lasts about 1-2 hours and involves incisions made on the inside of the nose, where patients usually experience only mild discomfort while recovering. Slight bruising and swelling may occur post-op but will reside in a few days.

Recommended specialist – Dr. Daniel G. Becker – Based in Sewell, New Jersey, Dr. Becker is the Founder and Medical Director of the Becker Nose and Sinus Center. He is also the Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Facial Plastic Surgery, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania. Visit www.BeckerCenter.com to schedule a consultation.

Suzie Cocktail – The Sex-Craved Environmentalist Makes a Name for Herself on the Internet

2009-07-31T11:46:00.003-05:00

It started with the racy photos. Multiple, random shots of a blonde, Jenny McCarthy look-alike with a complete disregard to sexual decency and a carrot stuffed into her wonder bra made me desperate for the answer to one simple question – Who the hell is Suzie Cocktail?

Clearly, she has at least one or two screws loose. That was my immediate thought when a friend showed me a photo of her posing half-naked, spooning an oversized, penis-shaped body pillow with her thumb in her mouth. Strange photos led to even stranger ones, such as Suzie making love to a mannequin at the park in broad daylight and posing at her arrest as if incarceration was an enjoyable experience. Suzie later persisted to mount a female police officer and bark like a dog down on all fours, but the madness would not stop here.

Next, it was a series of viral videos spreading across YouTube depicting Suzie Cocktail sporting Jackie Onassis style sunglasses, carrot in bra, stripping down to her underwear at a moment’s notice. After watching ridiculous video after video of Suzie, hammered and dancing around practically in her birthday suit, a new question emerged in my mind– Why is this woman getting so much media attention?

To my surprise, Suzie Cocktail’s Internet popularity did not stop at the Most Viewed channels of YouTube. I later found her on MySpace talking about recycling condoms after sex to help the green movement, also revealing that her grandfather happily watches pornography. Two common themes developed from the content on her MySpace page - an authentic love of both shameless sex and the environment.

Suzie’s comment threads revealed another common theme, one typically attached to sexually promiscuous women – genuine interest from the men and sheer hatred among the women. Rumors about Suzie Cocktail contracting STDs seemed to spread quicker than most genital diseases do, but Suzie seems to take it all with a grain of salt.

Suzie Cocktail also made her way onto Twitter. Suzie’s followers, who she refers to as “cutie puties,” earn the privilege of watching her party all-the-while helping her support the green movement through a care-free attitude towards human intercourse – thus the recycled condom philosophy.

Finally, at what may be the peak of Suzie Cocktail’s apparent fifteen minutes of Internet fame – enter SuzieCocktail.com. The site includes a preview of her up-and-coming webisodes beginning August 24th, and in terms of entertainment the webisodes seem, for lack of a better word, interesting. However, if you are the type of person who enjoys watching a full-grown woman crawl on her hands and knees, pacifier in mouth, acting like a complete idiot, then I highly recommend tuning in.

So, what does the future have in store for this sex-craved environmentalist besides a mass movement for recycling condoms? I guess that all depends on how many viewers are willing to, as the Suzie Cocktail website so elegantly phrases it, “Watch it…Rate it…Suck it.”

Top Ten Foot Conditions that Require You To Wear Therapeutic Shoes

2009-07-22T12:32:00.003-05:00

Of all the painful situations we have been in, foot pain seems to be the worst. Theres no way to avoid foot pain and walking around all days just seems to make the pain unbearable. Luckily, companies like Drewshoe specialize in therapeutic shoes which are made to relieve some of that pain cause by different food conditions. Below is a list of top foot conditions.

Ankle Valgus is a condition where the ankles roll in and compromises stability and alignment of the body. Footwear with wedges or flares that reduce foot pain in the lower legs and ankles are necessary to help counteract the foot's tendencies.

Ankle Varus is a condition where the ankles roll out and compromises stability and alignment of the body. Supportive footwear with wedges or flares that reduce foot pain in the lower legs and ankles are necessary to help counteract the foot's tendencies.

Arthritis is not one disease, but over 100 known diseases that affect the bones, muscles and joints in varies ways. The term doesn't define a specific disease, but the inflammation of a joint which results from any cause. Pain and swelling can ensue (particularly obvious in the hands and feet), which creates limited movement and mobility.

Bunions can form anywhere on the foot, but mostly occurs on the big toe joint. Bunions are created when friction between bones and skin create inflammation, resulting in a fluid-filled sac. With continual pressure the sac hardens and the result is pain and rigidity of the bones. The big toe is often forced into a position where it faces inward, resulting in the bunion. High heels and poorly fitting footwear are considered the main culprits.

Diabetes is a syndrome in which the problem is an absence or shortage of the pancreatic hormone insulin. This deficiency can effect the vascular system, affecting the eyes, kidneys, legs, and other extremities such as the feet. Diabetic foot problems arise from poor circulation that causes hyposensitivity. Clinical studies have shown that footwear can play an important role in diabetic foot care.

Hammertoes is misshapen or crooked toes. Genetics has a role in creating hammertoes, poorly fitting shoes can put unnatural pressure on your toes as well. This pressure creates misshapen toes that prevent your toes from resting flat, or force one of your toes into, or onto, another. Often those with flat feet develop hammertoes because muscles working in the defective arch area pull back on the muscles in the toes.

Metatarsalgia is a condition which creates great pain in the ball of the foot. The foot consists of metatarsal bones that work together to support your body during walking. If the balance of these bones is altered, foot pain can ensue.

Pes Cavus is a term used to describe a foot with an arch that is too high. A high-arched foot is painful because stress is placed on unnatural places on the foot. This type of foot typically requires therapeutic footwear that can be modified to accommodate the arch.

Pes planus is a condition in which the arch or instep of the foot collapses, and comes in contact with the ground. When an individual walks, pressure shifts to other parts of the foot causing pain. Correctly designed shoes will make the low-arch foot more comfortable.

Plantar Fasciitis (which can lead to heel spurs) is a pain located on the bottom of the heel and the inside the foot. The plantar fascia is a fibrous, tendon-like structure that extends to the entire length of the bottom of the foot. During activity, the plantar fascia can become irritated, inflamed and even tear. Improper shoe selection can cause the injury, including stiff-soled shoes that stretch the tendon, and over-worn shoes that allow the foot to pronate.

Top Ten Memorable Wedding Gifts

2009-07-17T14:05:00.002-05:00

No day in any man or a woman’s life is as magical as their wedding day. While love is the greatest gift a newlywed couple can receive, some truly thoughtful and unforgettable gifts are available that keep on giving. Below are the top ten most memorable wedding gifts.

1. A Photo Book – SmileBooks.com helps you turn your most memorable moments into a treasured photo book that warms the heart with the turning of every page. Take your photos of the bride and groom and create a beautiful, hardcover, bound photo book. Within minutes, you can download SmileBooks’ free software and begin creating digital memories that will last a lifetime. With so many different photo books to choose from and with such a wide variety of sizes, cover types, layouts and paper qualities, the personalization elements are literally endless. Log on to www.SmileBooks.com now and save 25% off all Classic photo books, the cornerstone of the SmileBooks collection.

2. Wedding Wishes Gift Basket from 1-877-Spirits.com – Send out warm regards to a newlywed couple with this Wedding Wishes Gift Basket from 877 Spirits. This precious gift contains a bottle of Moet & Chandon Champagne, assorted truffles and gourmet chocolate filled to the brim of an elegant Top Hat Ice Bucket for an all-inclusive price of $169.

3. His and Her Massage Gift Certificates – After all the planning involved in creating a picture perfect wedding there is nothing more relaxing to a bride and groom than a massage from a qualified therapist. Be one of the select few invitees on the guest list to give the gift that relaxes the mind, soothes the soul and lifts the spirit. Many day spas include a 25-minute Swedish, aromatherapy massage or a 25-minute deep tissue massage and full access of the facilities at the club. Some spas offer all day visits and even give out gift packs.

4. Personalized “The Joy is the Journey” Wedding Framed Print from Personal Creations – The best gift you can give a newlywed couple is the inspiration to take their cherished bond and make it last a lifetime. Be the one to remind them of this day after day with a personalized “The Joy is the Journey” wedding framed print. The print comes in a handsome black frame and lies beneath a sturdy glass cover. This memorable wedding gift will give your friend or family member the courage and enthusiasm to greet the challenges that lie in the road ahead, all for the price of about $25.

5. Lovers Sculpture from Destination Lighting – The symbolism depicted in this 24-inch Lovers Sculpture is that their passionate embrace has caused them to forget the world around them and focus on each other. However, newlyweds will not soon forget the bearer of this memorable wedding gift, which could be you for the cost of $110. The Lovers Sculpture sits perfectly on a shelf or table serving as a great artistic addition in the newlywed’s first home.

6. Our Wedding Invitation Engraved Keepsake from Personalization Mall – No newlywed couple could possibly forget the most creative gift given at their wedding, so be the one to give it. This “Our Wedding Invitation” engraved keepsake offers a custom engraving of the exact invitation originally created by the bride and groom. This thoughtful keepsake definitely makes one fabulous and truly memorable gift.

7. One Dozen Formal Chocolate Covered Strawberries from CC Berries – Choose between the following three scenarios for these formal chocolate covered strawberries: Option one includes half a dozen chocolate covered brides “dressed” in white and half a dozen grooms in tuxes. Option two gives you a dozen brides and option three a dozen grooms, all in one attractive gift box. These large, “formal” chocolate covered strawberries are delightfully attired and tastefully delicious. Give the gift that easily satisfies the sweet-toothed, chocolate loving newlywed.

8. Mr. and Mrs. Wedding Frame from AmericanBridal.com – Give the newlyweds a gift that they will cherish for years to come with this personalized picture frame. Engrave this Mr. and Mrs. Wedding Frame with the first names of the bride and groom, the couple’s last name and the date of their wedding in an attractive, scripted font. The Mr. and Mrs. Wedding Frame is 8” x 10” and holds any 4” x 6” picture of the newlywed couple.

9. The Canterbury Picnic Basket for Two from Picnic-Basket.com – One of the most memorable moments in the lives of a newlywed couple is their very first picnic as a married couple. Why not supply them with this best-selling Canterbury Picnic Basket for Two, which literally includes everything a couple needs to enjoy a beautiful, afternoon picnic? This eye-catching basket comes with an insulated, corduroy wine duffel with a cooler, stainless steel mugs and a stainless steel vacuum flask. In addition, you will find elegant place settings for two, a bottle stopper, wine glasses, fleece blanket and a set of stainless steel salt and pepper shakers. Also included are two sets of stainless steel utensils, a hardwood cutting board, a water style corkscrew, porcelain plates, cotton napkins and a cheese knife with a wooden handle, for an all-inclusive price of $179.95.

10. Flourish Personalized Doormat from OutdoorDecor.com – Help recent newlyweds welcome guests warmly into their home with a Flourish Personalized Doormat. Made from coir fibers and rubber, this personalized doormat has the strength to withstand everyday use and the style to show off their last name right at the front door. Purchase one from OutdoorDecor.com for just under $90.

Ten Old School Commercials That Are Still Hot

2009-07-09T08:22:00.004-05:00

The number of television commercials an average child will see in a year is 40,000. The number of TV commercials seen by the average person by age 65 is 2 million. The total spending on TV advertising in the US in 2007 was $150 billion. Finally, with the average American watching more than 4 hours of TV each day (or two months of nonstop watching per year), there is no wonder we get so attached to such cheesy commercials. Despite interrupting our favorite television shows, some commercials are worth noting and remembering. Below are ten old commercials that are still hot.

1. Lucille Roberts –This brief and to-the-point Lucille Roberts commercial for the Lucille Roberts women’s gym aired on television with the sole purpose of sending out one simple message. “Our gym is a lot like your job,” says the screen in bold white print against a solid black background, “You work your butt off for very little money.” Random shots of hard-bodied women working out to motivating music accompany these two Lucille mottos, followed by the knockout punch line: “Lucille Roberts. More Gym. Less Money.” While the actual message is clear, that this popular women’s gym will get you in shape without burning a hole in your pocket, it takes a little more effort to see the subliminal one: “Hey, the 1980s called…they want their spandex back.”

2. Cameta Camera – This is an old commercial for Long Island’s own Cameta Camera, a full-service camera shop established in 1983. To this day, the commercial remains relevant to their current cash-in or trade-up services. According to the commercial, customers are free to sell their old cameras to Cameta, even if Santana’s performance at Woodstock was the last time you used it. This may explain Cameta’s use of hippies in their commercial, who are free to trade in their 1979 Nikon camera, perhaps in exchange for a new digital camera strap or lens cap.

3. Pillsbury Chocolate Chip Cookies – The soft, warm Pillsbury ready-to-bake cookies depicted in this classic commercial are as irresistible as your urge to poke the Pillsbury Dough Boy in the stomach just to hear him giggle. It is clear to see how the smell alone of fresh baked cookies is enough to lure any sweet-toothed junk food junky into the kitchen for a snack. Allow your mouth to water as these delicious cookies expand on the frying pan, emerge from the oven and tear right down the middle into two halves of melted chocolaty goodness.

4. Tootsie Pop Commercial – How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop? You can try counting lick by lick, but everyone knows you always lose count along the way or bite into the pop before reaching the center. Knowing just how many licks it takes requires the wisdom and discipline of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures, which are two character traits rarely found in turtles. In this Tootsie Pop commercial from the 1970’s, the curious boy’s only hope in discovering the answer to his query is the wise owl, who also fails to reach the center to the grasps of temptation. So, how many licks does it take? It has been decades since candy lovers starting asking this question and the answer remains – “the world may never know.”

5. Mr. T Cereal – We pity the fool who does not remember this 1980’s commercial for Mr. T Cereal. This crispy and crunchy cereal made an appearance in the 1985 movie Pee Wee’s Big Adventure as part of Pee Wee’s balanced breakfast including a pancake, two sunny-side-up eggs and two strips of bacon all in the shape of a smiley face. For anyone lacking the ingenuity to build a breakfast machine such as the one Pee Wee uses throughout his Big Adventure, Mr. T Cereal packed a powerful punch, especially for children of the MTV Generation. How does Mr. T himself describe his hit 1980’s cereal? Plain and simply, “it’s cool!”

6. Cigarette Mash Public Service Announcement – Are you ready for the first step (for quitting smoking, that is)? Just do the Cigarette Mash! Put your hands to your lips and take your last puff…then all you need to say is, “enough of that stuff!” The 1980’s Cigarette Mash PSA from the Health Department of Kansas City encourages cigarette smokers to quit with none other than a catchy little disco number. Smoking is the third highest cause of death in the United States with both short and long-term effects. Cigarette smoking can also lead to memory loss, which may come in handy when trying to get the Cigarette Mash song out of your head.

7. Original Wheel of Fortune Promo – Where do millions of Americans go for the prizes, the cash and the excitement that keeps getting bigger and better than ever before? The same place they have been going since the airing of this 1987 Wheel of Fortune promo – the couch! People love to experience the fun and action delivered from every spin of the Wheel directly to their TV sets. The show has come a long way since its inception, offering Wheel of Fortune video games for your PC and a Wheel Watchers Club for fans who crave a piece of the action. An interesting fact about Vanna White is that the Guinness Book of World Records recognized her in 1992 as “television's most frequent clapper.”

8. Mr. Potato Head and His Bucket of Parts – No other toy from the 1950’s compares to the simplicity and sheer joy of Mr. Potato Head. Children have been rearranging Mr. Potato Head’s bucket of parts for years to make silly faces. Put his feet on top of his head or make his arms grow out of his nose, the sky is the limit. Mr. Potato Head and His Bucket of Parts easily get the creative juices flowing in the brain of your child while producing “buckets of fun for everyone!”

9. Barbie Home and Office Set – One morning in the early 1980s, Barbie wakes up in her brand new home and gets dressed for a hard day at work. She heads for the office and gets busy on the phone while working on the computer. She catches up with the news and Barbie has it all under control. Twenty years later, women become obsessed with having Barbie’s perfect body, idolize her flawless figure and develop eating disorders. Barbie becomes the blame for millions of depressed teenage girls suffering from unhealthy body images.

10. Vicks NyQuil – This Vicks NyQuil commercial from the 1980s is the “cliché, over-the-top, quick-to-annoy, overplayed, when is this over, why is that man naked, where is the remote so I can change the channel” medicine commercial. Despite being an irritating commercial that can be stuck in your head for days, NyQuil remains a popular and powerful medicine used to this day for the relief of nasal symptoms.

The Top Ten Places To Visit Before You Die

2009-07-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

From some of history’s most ancient structures and natural phenomena to the most fascinating vacation destinations on the face of the planet, even the avid traveler can feel like they are missing something spectacular. To aid you in experiencing everything this life has to offer, we have provided the top ten places to visit before you die.

1. The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt – No lifetime would be complete without a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest of three main pyramids in the Giza Necropolis that remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. The Sphinx, or Abu al-Hol (Arabic for “Father of Terror”), an enormous cat-like sculpture carved out of a single block of stone, is located in front of the pyramids and has amazed millions of visitors.

2. Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan – Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and finest art museums in the world, housing more than two million works of art across a 5,000-year time span. Visitors are free to discover the rise and fall of world cultures from prehistory all the way to this very day and from all across the globe. Be one of the more than five million visitors who come to New York City’s Central Park every year to explore the mesmerizing Metropolitan Museum.

3. Moon Nightclub in Las Vegas – Moon nightclub occupies the top floor of the Palms Fantasy Tower in Las Vegas, Nevada, providing a breathtaking view of the stars above and the strip down below. A massive retractable roof transforms Moon into a dramatic scene in a surreal environment unlike any other Las Vegas venue and unlike any nightclub in the world. What is arguably the most spectacular architectural feature in Sin City, Moon has made its way to our list as the top places to visit before you die.

4. Niagara Falls in Canada – In 1901, a 63-year-old woman named Annie Taylor (and her cat) miraculously descended over Niagara Falls in a barrel without losing their lives. With the Falls seeing between four and six million cubic feet of water go over its crest every minute, there is no wonder why Annie Taylor made the history books. Although we do not recommend attempting this daring and adventurous feat, be sure to take a glance at the beautiful and magnificent Niagara Falls in Canada before you kick the bucket, or in this case –the barrel.

5. Taj Mahal in Agra, India – Western historians claim that no structure has surpassed the architectural beauty of the Taj Mahal since the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India, built it entirely out of white marble. Flawlessly symmetrical yet perfectly integrated, the top dome, minarets and 166 square foot platform required a twenty-two thousand-man team who worked for over twenty-two years until its completion in the year 1653. The cost to build the “Crown Palace” was 32 million Rupees, or $68,000 US dollars.

6. Coliseum in Rome –The Coliseum in Rome staged some of the most spectacular battles in the history of the world between trained gladiators, convicted criminals, prisoners of war and wild beasts. A common misconception about the Coliseum is that it was unique in comparison to the other many amphitheaters Romans built throughout their far-flung empire. On the contrary, the only two elements that make the Coliseum such a spectacular place to visit are its unrivaled size and historical background, which should be reason enough to take the trip.

7. The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona – One of the first national parks in the United States, the Grand Canyon National Park receives an average of 5 million visitors per year. When visiting, anticipate large crowds during the spring, summer and fall. Besides allowing access to one of the most spectacular sights in the history of the world, the Grand Canyon National Park includes a variety of fun activities for people of all ages including camping, mule rides, day hiking and fishing trips as well as guided bus and air tours.

8. Angkor Wat in Cambodia –Angkor Wat is a vast temple complex built in the 12th century that continued as a Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site after the city of Angkor fell to invaders. In fact, many historians rank the intricately designed and architecturally advanced Angkor Wat among the Seven Wonders of the World. Tourists and adventure-seekers alike have confirmed that the sunrise and sunset views from the upper terraces of Angkor Wat are some of the best in the world, despite the climb it takes to reach them. Those without the stamina to ascend to the upper terraces may opt to go by elephant.

9. The Atlantis Paradise Island of the Bahamas – The combination of fine dining, casinos and water fun has brought countless visitors to the gorgeous Atlantis Paradise Island of the Bahamas. No other vacation resort offers the same nightlife scene, shopping amenities, golf courses, spas, fitness centers, water slides, marine habitats and live entertainment all wrapped into one memorable vacation far away from home. If you have never been a part of this mythical and magical world, we recommend you do so before biting the big one.

10. Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy – If you can sustain working out on a StairMaster for at least an hour then we highly recommend trekking the 294 spiral steps that take you to the top of one of the world’s most fascinating structures. The Leaning Tower of Pisa stirs the imagination of every person who lays eyes on it and completes our list of the top ten places to visit before you die.

The Top 10 Ways to Get the Job You Want

2009-06-29T10:12:00.001-05:00

In our current economic crisis, now may be the most difficult time to land a job, let alone the one you want. With the right techniques and proper guidance, prospective employees can significantly improve their chances of being hired. Below are the top 10 ways to get the job you want.

1. Include a Detailed Resume - Try to focus your resume on the qualities needed for the positionfor which you are applying. Highlight the areas and skills that you have excelled in as they pertain to the job you are seeking. If your current or previous job is in retail and you are applying for an administrative position, you do not want to limit your resume to your ability to operate a cash register. Instead, emphasize qualities that are relevant and universal, such as your ability to work under pressure, tackle assignments and designate responsibility.

2. Use A Blog to Show Your Expertise – By keeping a blog based on your field of work, it may give you the extra push you need to land a job that is beyond your level of experience. Bloggers become experts of their craft faster than employees with day-to-day working knowledge and many employers are aware of this. An informative blog can serve as an addition to your resume or as a replacement for it, and can greatly improve your chances of landing a higher paying job.

3. Compose a Unique Cover Letter – Most prospective employees understand the importance of making a good first impression on the day of their interview, but sometimes the “real” first impression is found in the cover letter of your resume. As a rule of thumb, be sure to use a professional layout and format for your cover letter while keeping it organized, easy to read, to the point and most importantly, unique. While you should never be afraid to show your personality or sense of humor in your cover letter, try to keep it formal, addressing the employer as Ms. or Mr. Go over your cover letter several times, check for grammatical or spelling errors, and look for any areas that may need improvement. It never hurts to have a “fresh eye” take one last look at your cover letter before sending it out.

4. Research the Company Before the Interview – There are many often-overlooked benefits of researching a company before going into an interview. Take some time out before your “big day” to gain a better idea about the company in which you are applying. This will help you feel more comfortable during the interview and teach you to “speak their language”. Employers will recognize your initiative and consider it as another reason to offer you the position. Company research can also help you determine if the company is an overall good fit for you.

5. Notify Your References – Never underestimate the power of notifying your references with a brief phone call or email. If your reference is a previous employer, a phone call or email will jog their memory about the work you have done for them, allowing them to speak more specifically on your behalf. The simple fact that you made the effort to contact your previous employer about a potential reference check also shows politeness, giving him or her one more reason to recommend you for the job you want.

6. Dress to Impress – The first thing an interviewer will notice about a potential employee is his or her attire. Although the company you are applying for may not implement a dress code, the interview is the last place you want to find yourself underdressed. Experts recommend a black or dark blue suit for both men and women, where women should feel free to wear a skirt suit, granted the skirt falls below the knee. When in doubt, keep in mind that conservative attire is the safest option.

7. Earn an MBA – One of the most outstanding achievements a potential employee can demonstrate in a resume is a master’s degree, or MBA, representing the leadership, team building, analysis and problem-solving skills and qualities every employer is searching for. An MBA earned at a prestigious education facility, such as the Manhattan Center at Adelphi University, may be the single most deciding factor in landing the job you desire. The 42-credit, eight-week amMBA program offered at Adelphi prepares students for ongoing managerial success in the workplace, helping them land better, higher paying jobs. Visit the Adelphi University admissions center for more information.

8. Follow Up with A Thank You Letter - Follow up with a thank you letter immediately after the interview by email or mail to reiterate your interest and enthusiasm about the position (the three-day rule for dating does not apply in the business world). Be sure to keep it simple, extending your thanks and appreciation for the time the interviewer spent with you and let them know you are available for a follow-up interview. As always, proof read your letter for spelling mistakes or grammatical errors before sending it out.

9. Listen to the Interviewer - Listening shows interest, which is exactly what the potential employer wants. Do more than just nod your head and pay close attention to the subject matter of the interview. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself by going into detail about everything you can bring to the table. Most interviewers are only looking for general interest in this point of the game.

10. Know Somebody – This method of landing the job you want does not require flawless resumes, unique cover letters, self-confidence, a Master’s degree or extensive company research (although all of these things can never hurt a prospective employee). Knowing a family member or friend in a business serves as a giant gateway to getting your foot in the door, so long as you are prepared to do a good job. Poor work habits reflect poorly on the person who recommended you for the job, which puts both of you in an awkward position.

Creating a Photo Book

2009-06-25T12:18:00.000-05:00

You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to create your own photo book. The tools provided by SmileBook’s website are so self-explanatory that I did not even have to read the instructions to create the perfect photo book.
The first step in creating a customized photo book was choosing a cover type. Next, you can choose which book size you want to use and number of pages you want in your book. You have the option of choosing from either a classic, deluxe, mini or panoramic photo book.
Select a layout design for a specific page of your photo book, upload photos with SmileBooks software using the “add photos” feature, and drag and drop your photos to the pages of your SmileBook albums. The number of albums you can create is unlimited and each one you create will be stored directly on the SmileBook’s so that you can go back to it in the future. Keep in mind that you can use social media sites such as FaceBook, as well as Flickr and Picasa to import your photos.
You can then add text, backgrounds and cliparts to the pages in your photo book to personalize them and give them some final touches.
Each photo book that you create requires a minimum of 26 pages and you can see exactly how your book will look in Screen Preview mode. You can flip through all of the pages of your photo book by using the feature to make sure it is perfect before it is printed.
When you are finished with your photo book, click the “Buy Now” option, several shopping cart options will appear. You can view your cart, which includes the price of your completed photo books and the number of copies you want to print, and all other information, such as shipping and billing, will be included in this section.
Now that you know how simple it is to create a SmileBooks photo book, you can take the time to create one of your own. It is well worth the money and time that you spend on it. If a picture is worth a thousand words, imagine how much a photo book from SmileBooks can say.

Ten Super Cars from the 1980s

2009-06-11T08:26:00.011-05:00

Top Ten Super Cars from the 1980s
If you had a driver’s license in the 80s, then you probably remember the classic cars that defined the decade. To jog your memory, some of them include the 1987 BMW M5, the 1989 Thunderbird Super Coupe and the 1983 Chrysler LeBaron Mark Cross Convertible. Then there was a class of cars unmatched in their ability to break through the 186mph barrier and packed with enough power to accelerate faster than just about any other car on the road. We refer to these fine pieces of machinery as super cars, and below are the top ten from the 1980s.

1. Cizeta-Moroder V16T
Year: 1988, Engine: 6.0 liter V16, Horsepower: 540
The 540 horsepower engine found in this 1988 classic kicked out an impressive acceleration of 0 to 60 in 4.5 seconds. The power in this super car dominated most of the other cars in its class including the 1991 Jaguar XJ220 (500hp) as well as the 1990 Lamborghini Diablo (492mph). In terms of top speed, the Moroder cruised at approximately 204mph, placing it in a close third with the other cars in its class, due mostly in part to its extra weight (3,749 pounds). The 3,440 pound XJ220 reached 220mph, the 2,426 pound Koenig C 62 reached 235 mph and the 3,475 Diablo reached a slightly slower 202mph.

2. Ferrari F40
Year: 1987, Engine: 2.9 liter V8, Horsepower: 472
In 1987, the Ferrari F40 was capable of spitting out a top speed of 201 mph, outperforming just about every car in its class (except the 1987 Lamborghini Countach Evolution, which could do 205 mph). The ‘87 F40 rocketed from zero to sixty in an unprecedented 4.1 seconds, beating out not only the Countach Evolution, but also the 1989 Jiotto Caspita and the 1989 Zender Fact 4. Factor in a 472 horsepower engine and this classic super car is single handedly one of the greatest of the 1980s.

3. Jiotto Caspita
Year: 1989, Engine: 3.5 liter B12, Horsepower: 450
Although the 1989 Jiotto Caspita was an identical match in horsepower to the 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 (both stocked with 450hp), the Caspita was capable of reaching an unparalleled top speed of 199mph (the XJR-15 only reached 185mph). For the most part, this top speed was the highest in its class with the exception of the 1992 Yahama OX99-11 capable of cruising at an exceptional 219mph. The large gap in top speed between the two was complements of the 2,426 pound frame of the ’89 Caspita, an average weight for this type of vehicle but no match for the 1,985 pound OX99-11.

4. Aston Martin Bulldog
Year: 1980, Engine: 5.3 liter V8, Horsepower: 600
No other engine in this class of super cars could compete with the 600hp, V8 found in the 1980 Aston Martin Bulldog. Despite being the heaviest model in its class (weighing in at approximately 3,808 pounds), the Bulldog accelerated from 0 to 60 faster than every car at an untouchable 5.1 seconds. Also clocking in at a top speed of 191mph, the Aston Martin Bulldog easily surpassed every vehicle in every area.

5. Ferrari 288 GTO
Year: 1984, Engine: 2.9 liter V8, Horsepower: 395
The specifications of the 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO place it into a slightly above average position for this particular class of super cars (which includes the 1985 Aston Martin Zagato, the 1982 Lamborghini Countach LP500S and the 1987 Porsche 959). The ’84 Ferrari reached a top speed of 189mph and accelerated from zero to sixty in 4.8 seconds. A 395 horsepower engine is complemented by a 2,558 pound body frame, making this classic car one of the best from the 1980s.

6. Aston Martin Zagato
Year: 1985, Engine: 5.3 liter V8, Horsepower: 432
Almost every car in the 1985 Aston Martin Zagato class of super cars reaches a top speed of just under 190mph, with an acceleration from 0-60 in approximately 5.0 seconds (1985 Aston Martin: 186mph, 5.0 seconds; 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO: 189mph, 4.8 seconds; 1968 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary: 185mph, 4.8 seconds; 1987 Porsche 959: 186, 3.7 seconds). The Zagato weighs more than the three other super cars), dragging along just over 3,500 pounds (the Zagato is over a thousand pounds heavier than the 288 GTO). A 432 horsepower engine compensates for this extra weight, which is the factor that keeps this super car in the running for one of the greatest of the ‘80s.

7. Porsche 959
Year: 1987, Engine: 2.8 liter B6, Horsepower: 444
The single most notable specification of the 1987 Porsche 959 is its ability to accelerate from zero to sixty in a remarkable 3.7 seconds, a full second faster than both the 1989 Jiotto Caspita and the 1985 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV. A 444 horsepower engine delivers some serious competition among the other super cars on this list, including the other cars in this class such as the 1989 Zender Fact 4. Among the remaining cars in this class, the Porsche 959 is considered average in terms of top speed (186mph) and a little on the heavy side (3,197 pounds), but ultimately a strong competitor.

8. De Lorean DMC-12
Year: 1981, Engine: 2.85 liter V6, Horsepower: 130
The De Lorean DMC-12, otherwise referred to as simply De Lorean, was one of the most famous classic sports cars of the 1980s. While the performance of 1981 De Lorean was nothing to get excited about (acceleration: 0-60 in 9.6 seconds; top speed: 130mph) it was the odd appearance that gave the car its appeal. A unique stainless steel body and gull-wing style doors set this classic car aside from the rest, while the De Lorean’s role in the hit trilogy Back to the Future added to its popularity. Despite being the slowest and least powerful super car on this list, the De Lorean still deserves its place in the rankings.

9. Zender Fact 4
Year: 1989, Engine: 3.6 liter V8, Horsepower: 448
With the fastest acceleration and lowest weight in its class, there is no wondering why the 1989 Zender Fact 4 is among the top ten super cars of the 80s. The Zender Fact 4 beat out the 1991 Art & Tech Sogna, the 1989 Jiotto Caspita and the 1988 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary in both categories, while coming in at a close second in top speed at a modest 186mph (the Jiotto Caspita reaches 199mph). The Zender Fact 4 was clearly a force to be reckoned with in its time.

10. Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV
Year: 1985, Engine: 5.2 liter V12, Horsepower: 448
The 448 horsepower 1985 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV proved to be stronger than most of the cars in its class (1985 Aston Martin Zagato: 432hp; 1987 Porsche 959: 444hp) with the exception of the 1987 Ferrari F40, revving out a commanding 472 horses. The acceleration and top speed of the ’85 Countach 5000 QV (4.8 seconds from 0-60; 185mph top speed) hindered because of its weight, weighing in at almost nine hundred pounds heavier than the Ferrari F40.

If you happen to be the proud owner of any one (or many) of these classic super cars from the 1980s and are looking for new and used auto parts, visit www.UNeedAPart.com. UNeedAPart’s fast and free locator service will contact their database of over 7,000 car parts dealers and find the precise part you need for your classic super car.

Enhance Your Website

2009-06-11T08:15:00.003-05:00

Every website requires two necessary steps to hit the ground running, which are registering a domain name and finding a web host. After that, it comes down to what you are willing to do to in order to make money with your site. Popular website enhancement techniques such as posting a photo or video, initiating pay per click management or establishing search engine optimization strategies can not only enhance your site, but take it on a journey to the top of the search engine results page. Below are six proven ways to enhance your website.

Buying Media to Use on Your Site - sites like GoNogging.com are digital marketplaces where users can request, buy or sell specific, custom digital content including videos, music and imagery. Although many users registered with GoNogging.com use the site to sell their digital content, the buying and requesting aspects open a large window of opportunity for people to obtain the content that can truly enhance their website. If you cannot find what you are looking for on GoNogging, simply put in a request to Content Producers for the media you desire. Adding digital media to your site is a simple and effective method of enhancing it.

Keeping a Blog – A blog, otherwise known as a “web log,” is the section of your website where you can create articles pertaining to your site, service or product. In this section, you can generate content on anything you want such as giving instructions and tips or sharing advice or opinions about a particular topic. You can also host viral articles, videos and photos on your blog engaging your visitors with exciting content that they can comment on. Finally, a web log serves as a highly useful tool that can improve the ranking of your site on Internet search engines. By using keyword terms and phrases in your blog, you can enhance both your site and its visibility on Google, Yahoo! and MSN for additional exposure.

Pay Per Click Management– Pay per click (PPC) ads can help you reach more people, generate more conversions and build your brand. If you are unfamiliar with pay per click ads, these are the small images, text ads or videos that appear on the search page results of Google, Yahoo! and MSN. As an advertiser for a PPC campaign, you agree to pay a “bid” every time a user clicks on your advertisement in exchange for the traffic your website receives. This is a flexible and cost-effective strategy for enhancing a website, but keep in mind that plenty of work is involved. Pay per click management requires hands-on-research and copywriting, as well as constant monitoring and adjustments. In order to take your pay per click campaign to the highest level, you may want to consider hiring an Internet marketing company specializing in pay per click management such as www.PrimeVisibility.com.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – If you are looking to optimize your website naturally, there are a number of useful SEO strategies you can implement to increase Internet traffic to your website. While a complete guide to search engine optimization would be length of a book, helpful tips are scattered throughout the Web to get you started. Most SEO guides, such as Search Engine Optimization 101, go into detail about the importance of choosing winning keywords, filling pages with compelling copy and creating simple text navigation. If you use these techniques correctly, your website should experience a boost in its ranking on search engines and attract more clients. Understanding the process of establishing your website and submitting it to the major web directories and search engines is vital, but any quality SEO guide will show you how to do this.

Adding Videos or Broadcasting on YouTube – If you are looking to enhance your website with videos, you can embed the coding on your website, or, if you want to promote your site, you can broadcast on their site. YouTube is the second most popular search engine on the Internet and makes both embedding code and posting videos a simple task. By posting videos on YouTube, you are essentially creating an additional doorway for people to find your site. A potential client may stumble upon a link to your site while browsing the channels on YouTube, which is one method of gaining exposure, or, your video can spread “virally.”

Link Building – In addition to what is on your website, it may be just as important what is off your site. The website enhancement strategy we are referring to is "link building" and it is another useful tool. Simply defined, link building is a popular method of gaining online exposure and traffic to a website through relative links (sometimes referred to as “back links”) from other sites. Quality links from relevant businesses, organizations, blogs or social media sites can also boost your search engine rankings. Visit the Five Link Building Strategies That Work article at CopyBlogger.com for more helpful information.

The Benefits of Diabetic Shoes

2009-06-04T16:00:00.003-05:00

One of the major problems people with diabetes have is a loss of feeling and sensation in the foot. Therefore, if a wound, callus, ulcer, scratch, pinch or any other type of discomfort develops inside the shoe, a diabetic may not actually feel it, causing the discomfort to worsen over time since the person has done nothing to correct it.

In addition, wounds and other foot-related problems heal much slower in the foot of a diabetic in comparison to someone without diabetes. However, specially made diabetic shoes that have extra room in the toe area, added depth in the midsole, added stiffness in the sole and stability in the heel, can significantly reduce these common problems among diabetics.

Diabetic shoes not only help improve minor aches and pains in the feet, but can also prevent other more serious medical complications such as poor circulation or foot deformities that can lead to neuropathy (the way information is carried to the brain about sensations from various parts of the body) as well as amputation.

In the past, many people who required diabetic shoes prescribed by a doctor reported that these types of shoes were unfashionable, despite the fact that they offered relief in pain and discomfort. Today, however, most of the newer diabetic shoes have improved in terms of style, making those required to wear them much more satisfied.

The most notable benefits of diabetic shoes are as follows:

Prevent Calluses – When not properly trimmed, foot calluses, a common problem among diabetics, can grow thicker and may even turn into ulcers. Diabetic shoes help prevent these calluses.

Help Avoid Foot Ulcers – Ill-fitting shoes can create ulcers in the foot, usually on the big toes or on the balls of the feet. Failure to address an ulcer of this nature can result in amputation, but proper fitting shoes will help prevent ulcers from forming.

Minimize Scratches and Pinches – Diabetic shoes are generally very comfortable and made of material that leaves your feet well protected, thus minimizing the occurrence of scratches and pinches in the feet.

Deliver More Comfort – Properly fitted shoes produce better blood circulation in diabetics, where normal shoes may restrict circulation.

Offer Better Ventilation (I don’t understand this either, even after reading the source again…so I took it out)–Closed shoes that do not give feet enough air cause the feet to sweat more, leaving them feeling uncomfortable and at risk for athlete's foot or other kinds of fungus.

For more information on diabetic shoes, or to shop online for orthopedic, occupational and medical shoes, visit DrewShoe.com.

Twitter

2009-05-21T09:19:00.004-05:00

Ive noticed lately the new trend is twitter. Every where I go I hear people talking about Twitter, even on the radio people are advertising their Twitter accounts. What is Twitter? Twitter is a site that gives you a chance to make posts of 140 characters or less. Posts can contain links and are sent out to all of the users Twitter followers. Every Twitter post can be burned with feed burner and placed on your personal blog or website. Direct messages can also be sent out. Many companies such as Cameta Camera, Smilebooks, Lakeview Health, Lucille Roberts, amazon, n9negroup and more all have thier own twitter accounts which they use to reach out to their customers. Cameta Camera Uses their to give info out about cameras, trying to make a sale while Smilebooks and Amazon promotes promotions. Twitter is becoming hobby for the public and a powerfull marketing tool.

If your on Twitter, be sure to follow me!

The Seven Best Ways to Get Exposure for Your Digital Media

2009-05-20T16:03:00.005-05:00

If you are looking for Internet exposure for your digital Media, it helps to “know before you go.” Once you gain a clearer understanding of the services provided by popular social websites like GoNogging, Twitter and Facebook it will be a lot easier for you to decide exactly where and how you want to make your media available. Below are the seven best ways to get exposure for your digital media on the Web.

1. GoNogging.com – GoNogging.com considers itself the digital market place where users can request, buy or sell digital content such as video, music and imagery in a safe and fun environment. GoNogging.com is a centralized online location that brings a multitude of people together, including those who want to sell their digital content and those who want to buy it; where users with similar interests and needs can interact both individually and collaboratively. Businesses and individuals can use the site to request digital content completely customized to their specifications. They can request specific video, imagery, audio or other digital content directly from content producers. Content producers can respond to the requests or use GoNogging.com as a great platform for promoting, marketing and selling their unique digital content and gaining the exposure they desire.

2. Flickr.com - The founders and team members of Flickr.com claim to have two main goals when it comes to digital media – to help people make their favorite photos and video available to those who matter most, and to enable new ways of keeping their digital media organized. With Flickr, users can upload, organize and share their pictures while staying in touch with family members and friends at the same time. Flickr makes all your pictures safe, secure and searchable, where you have the final say as to exactly who can view, comment on, tag, edit and even organize the media you include on the site. The real fun begins when you and your chosen network of people get the chance to create greeting cards, photo books, calendars and more, all with the images you have uploaded to the site.

3. Facebook.com – Facebook is a popular social networking website that keeps people connected through the sharing of photos, videos, information and more, all on one personalized page. If you are looking for a creative way of displaying your digital media, you can easily do so with the help of Facebook’s video uploading features and large photo albums. In addition, Facebook offers more than 52,000 available applications that provide even more ways of sharing your digital media and staying connected with other like-minded people.

4. Twitter.com – Twitter came about in order to help people stay in touch by letting each other know what the other one is doing. Since its conception, Twitter has grown to become one of the most popular places on the Web where people can find other members by searching similar interests, keywords, locations and more. Twitter can also find people on other networks such as Gmail, Yahoo!, AOL and MSN Hotmail, providing a great environment for sharing digital media across a tremendous spectrum of users. For additional exposure, you can send quick, frequent messages (or “tweets”) that appear on your blog, get sent to your “followers” and become searchable through Twitter’s search engine. Therefore, anyone in need of your digital media will be able to find it with the greatest of ease on Twitter.com.

5. MySpace.com – Members of the MySpace.com community have the freedom of viewing other members’ profiles, connecting with them via MySpace’s free messenger services and sharing their digital media such as music, photos, videos and more. MySpace.com is free to join and serves as a great portal to network yourself and your digital media throughout the Web. MySpace Video is one feature that provides a simple way for community members to post, view and share video clips from TV shows, music videos, movies and other categories of various videos. Members can also view photos and highlights provided by a variety of MySpace media channels such as CelebTV.com and PetTube.com, where they can talk gossip and gain additional exposure.

6. Digg.com – Digg.com is a social media site where users can log on to discover, select, share and discuss their digital media with other community members. The media found on the Digg website, such as images, video clips and newsworthy material, is listed according to a unique and user-generated ranking system where other members decide which media rises to the top. There are no editors here, so if you are looking for maximum exposure for your digital media in this community, the first thing you need is some popularity points. However, serving as one of the Internet’s most popular social media sites, Digg.com does have some great potential for those seeking online exposure.

7. YouTube.com – YouTube.com is the leader in online video, where users can upload and share original media that can be viewed from anywhere in the world. YouTube video clips travel easily across the Internet through websites and people can gain additional exposure through mobile devices, blogs, RSS feeds and emails with the help of YouTube. YouTube users are free to broadcast their videos on the site to gain exposure, experience first-hand accounts of current events, raise awareness for important issues or simply find videos about their interests and hobbies.

How the West Was Fun and My Travel Book Was Done!

2009-05-18T08:22:00.004-05:00

When I returned from my visit out West to the Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion National Park and Antelope Canyon I wanted to put together a travel book that would really highlight my great vacation. I had heard about SmileBooks from a friend and decided to give it a whirl. Am I glad I did!

*I downloaded the software and followed the simple instructions

*Decided on a cover and a number of pages

*Set out to create my own pages rather than use the SmileBooks templates

*Twisted and turned my photos

*Used a beautiful sunset as a double page spread

*Created a 3D style page using the same photo superimposed on top of itself a bunch of times, at different sizes

*Added text

*Put the title of the book (How the West Was Fun) on the binding and front cover

Before I knew it my vacation photo book was done. It was easy…and FUN!
Seven days later I received my very first SmileBook (it isn't my last –more are coming). I opened it and couldn't believe what I saw! Page after page (26 in total) of beautiful images, on sturdy bookstore quality paper, professionally bound in a hard cover book. My SmileBook is filled with shots I took that I never thought would ever look this good. It highlights all the things I want to remember about my trip, and it tells a story that I continue to share with anyone who spies it on my coffee table.

Stay tuned, my daughter and I are now putting together a SmileBook soft-covered friendship book as I write this….what a great day rainy day project!

Download Smilebooks photo book software and create your own photo book!

Top Picks for Father's Day Gifts

2009-05-12T09:56:00.002-05:00

Father's Day is June 21st so it's time to start thinking about getting dad a gift that shows him you really know who he is, what he likes, and why you love him. Forget the ties this year and really make him proud.

Mow Dad Over – Make dad's green thumb truly nimble with brand new garden tools, lawn and garden equipment and more. Order Tree makes it easy for you to buy just about everything he needs to enjoy the great outdoors. Hunting for the perfect gift? Order Tree has lots of fishing and gun accessories too; perfect gifts for bringing out the outdoorsman in your father.

Give Dad the Time of Day – Promising to spend some alone time with your father is something he'll surely appreciate. Invite him out with a gift certificate to his favorite restaurant, make a golf date, plan an overnight trip….enclose your gift with a note telling him you've reserved time for just the two of you. And to seal the deal, and guarantee that dad gets there on time, get him a new watch. You'll find great prices at The Watch Co.

A Sure Bet – There's no gamble here…what dad wouldn't love to get away to Vegas? Find great flight and hotel rates at Last Minute Travel then check out the N9NE Group for VIP tickets to the best clubs on the strip, including access to the Playboy Club.

Food for Thought – They say the key to a man's heart is through his stomach. All Fresh Seafood can deliver seafood delights right to his door. Choose from gift baskets, fresh lobster, caviar, shellfish and more. Or, just present him with a gift certificate and let him select his own delicacies.

Just Cause – Give dad a gift that keeps on giving…to others. Make a donation in his name to a cause that's dear to his heart. Many charities, including the American Cancer Society will send a special card acknowledging a donation in their honor.

Music to His Ears – Present dad with a new ipod or portable media player that you have personally filled with his favorite tunes. Buy him a new instrument and get him local music lessons. Or, bring out his wild side with DJ equipment, lighting, amps and more. You can even involve the whole family with a new karaoke machine.

The Usual Suspects – I would be remiss if I didn't at least mention the sure-fire winner gifts. They aren't unique, but they're always welcome. A new Plasma TV, Blu-Ray player, home theater….electronics of any kind always create a buzz.

Hook Him Up – Upgrade dad's existing television package to include more premium channels. Pay for a year of high speed Internet for his computer. Get him a subscription to Netflix or other movie delivery system. Buy him a new easy chair. Show him that after all he's done for you, he deserves some time to just relax.

The Playboy Club

2009-04-24T14:56:00.005-05:00

Sunday April 26th Playboy Club is the place to be. You can become the Playboy Club's Miss April Calendar Model! All you need to do is show up before midnight, fill out the entry form, and look good because you will have your picture taken.

One winner receive $1,000 and a complimentary nights stay at the Palms which includes a spa package, dinner for two at NOVE, and a comp table inside the Playboy Club for the following month’s Playboy Club's model search. The winner will also receive a professional photo shoot where the Playboy Club will pick the best photo to use for the following month's promotional materials… You have the chance to be the face of promotional materials for Playboy Club the following month! Not only that, but you will be featured as Miss April in the 2010 Playboy Club Calendar!

Click for more information on Playboy Clubs Promotions

Mother's Day Gifts

2009-04-22T08:40:00.007-05:00

I posted Eight Ways to Turn Your Old Photos into Sentimental Gifts the other day as a guide to help people think of sentimental gifts for Mother's Day or any other special occasion. If you haven't read it, please do. I mentioned a photo book from Smilebooks, which is great, but here is where Smilebooks gets better.

Smilebooks just announced an interesting new Mother's Day promotion. During Smilebooks Mothers Day promotion which ends May 10th, Smilebooks will be giving out clues. Each clue will last on Smilebooks.com for about 24 hours before it gets replaced by the next clue. Collect all five clues and you will have a 5 letter promo code which takes off 50%. This 50% off Mothers Day promo code expires May 10th, but can be use multiple times until May 10th.

If your low on cash like me this is the perfect opportunity to get mom a really nice sentimental gift at a great price. You can start by downloading Smile books free photo book software, to put together your photo book. If you like your photo book you can wait a few days until you get the coupon code before making the transaction. Mom will love it!

Eight Ways to Turn Your Old Photos into Sentimental Gifts

2009-04-21T13:37:00.005-05:00

If you’re looking for a simple way to say those three magic words nothing says them better than a gift from the heart. With the help of a few handy websites, you can use your old photos to create a gift perfect for any occasion. Below are eight ways to turn your old photos into sentimental gifts.

1. A Photo Book – Turn your favorite photographs into custom photo books and preserve your most precious memories forever. Website like www.SmileBooks.com make it easy to create individualized custom photo albums using your own digital photos and computer images. Photo books come in four great sizes, are available in hard or soft covered and each one is professionally bound.

2. A Picture Frame Locket – Nothing says “I love you” like a picture frame locket. This classic sentimental gift idea will give your loved ones a chance to hold you close to their hearts. Try framing one of your most precious photos in this 14K yellow gold locket with chain. It will be one gift your loved one will never forget.

3. Personalized Photo Pillow – Personalized gifts and home décor websites like www.VisionBedding.com let you create photo pillows that capture your most memorable moments in time. Incorporate as many photos as you like and design the whole thing yourself. Feel free to add borders, text and other graphic elements to enhance your memories even further.

4. Photo Mug – Photo mugs are great for coffee and tea drinkers on the 9 – 5 office grind. Decorate this classic mug with pictures of your loved ones, favorite sports team’s logos or a meaningful message such as “#1 Dad” or “World’s Greatest Boss.”

5. Photo Calendar – Custom made photo calendars are easy to design and make great gifts, too! Websites like www.zazzle.com offer custom calendars in 5 unique styles and sizes, 7 different wire colors and the freedom to choose start and end months. A photo calendar is the perfect way to showcase those who matter most and be reminded of them day after day.

6. Personalized Photo T-Shirt – For just $14.99, you can print photos of your favorite memory, event, pet or friend on a custom photo T-shirt with the help of www.shutterfly.com. These 50% cotton and 50% polyester shirts offer unmatched image quality in sizes ranging from youth small to adult XXL.

7. Digital Photo Mouse Pad – The standard-size digital photo mouse pads available at www.shutterfly.com are great for the home or office. Choose from one of 500 borders to accentuate a custom collage of photos. Made from high-density foam, photo mouse pads stand up to everyday wear and tear, clean easily and resist stains.

8. Photo Collage Posters – Collage posters from www.BisonPhoto.com allow you to capture team photos, multi-generation family portraits and life celebrations to hang on your wall. Use up to 50 photos to create posters ranging from 16"x20” to 24"x36”.

You're so Vain!

2009-04-20T13:49:00.005-05:00

Men are going under the knife in record numbers

A study published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reveals that by 2015, at least 17% of people in the United States will have had some kind of cosmetic surgery treatment. They further predict that eyelift surgery (blepharoplasty) will be among the top three most popular cosmetic surgeries chosen by the male community.
Despite the downturn in the economy, there is a real upturn in men clambering for top cosmetic surgeons to make them look and feel young again. One particularly active "lift" is in eyelift surgery. Men who are looking to have their manbags cut away are hoping to remove the droop and replace it with a tighter more awake looking appearance.

Male celebrities and men on the street alike are examining their options for eyelift surgeries that will remove the droop without creating an unreal appearance. The fact is that male blepharoplasty surgery is different than the popular female eye surgery. Men generally have lower, flatter brows with fuller upper lids than females and need a surgeon who understands these aesthetics and has the ability to translate this difference into operative techniques.

In addition to the need for achieving a natural look after surgery, men are concerned about privacy as well as recovery time. It is for these reasons that cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Amiya Prasad a New York eye expert and male blepharoplasty specialist, are being sought for male eyelift surgery. Along with discreet consultations, these male blepharoplasty surgeries are performed as an outpatient procedure, with local anesthesia and the use of lasers and radio frequency techniques that offer the fastest recovery possible. The surgery which can take as little as an hour is non-invasive and extremely effective.

This "eye-opening" surgery, when performed by a male blepharoplasty specialist can make a real difference in any man's appearance, regardless of their age. Some look at it as an issue of vanity; the more popular view however, is that this form of male cosmetic surgery is a necessity to look young, fresh and more able to keep pace in the competitive social and economic society in which we live.

24 Signs That Say You Have an Eating Disorder!

2009-04-09T10:59:00.010-05:00

There are many different types of eating disorders which may have drastic unhealthy effects on your body. Whether you show signs of anorexia, Which is an intense fear of gaining weight where the victims starve themselves, compulsive overeating disorder where the victim becomes obsessed with eating, or anything in between its never to late to get help .

If you know some one who has a handful of the symptoms below, beware, an eating disorder may be present.

• Eating comfort foods to help deal with an emotional state
• Fixating on certain foods throughout the day
• Binging on food either in secret or when alone
• Cleaning their plates regardless of how much food there is on it, even when full
• Eating until they are sick
• Eating very quickly so they can eat more
• Feelings of guilt after eating too much of the wrong types of food
• Fear of gaining weight
• Distorted body image
• Avoiding situations where food is present
• Obsessive about dieting
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Denial of hunger
• Refusal to maintain a healthy body weight
• Recurrent episodes of binge eating
• The inability to control eating during the episodes
• Attempts to eliminate the food and calories ingested during the binge episode through
• Self-induced vomiting
• Compulsive exercising
• Laxative abuse
• Fasting
• The binge and purge episodes occur together at least two times per week over the course of three months
• The person constantly expresses a dissatisfaction for his or her body weight or shape

If someone close to you is showing these symptoms, don't worry its not to late, get help! For more information on eating disorders visit EatingDisorder.com or for help visit RecoveryConnection.com

Five Benefits of Orthopedic Shoes

2009-04-09T09:52:00.001-05:00

Most people in today’s society would say that orthopedic shoes are unattractive and unfashionable but believe it or not, there is a surprisingly large demand for custom-made orthopedic shoes. Many men and women have even gone to the lengths of obtaining a written prescription from their doctor for a specially designed orthopedic shoe. The truth is that some of the most common foot problems such as arch pains, corns, calluses and bunions can be relieved with the right orthopedic shoe. Even bone pains and ankle twists are preventable with the proper orthopedic support. Below are five additional benefits of going orthopedic.

1. Orthopedic shoes give added support. Orthopedic shoes hold the foot comfortably and safely in place through extended periods of activity. Built-up inner arches and built-in heel supports are often made of foam or gel providing added rigidity to the ankle area. Shoes with additional orthopedic support such as built-in braces or sleeves prevent ankle twists and soften the blow that runs up the lower leg bones when you take a step.

2. They alleviate foot pain. If you are an active person where your lifestyle requires you to stand or walk for extended periods of time you can develop serious foot pains. Even the surfaces you stand on, such as concrete flooring, can damage the bones in your feet and ankles. The innersoles found in most orthopedic shoes are separate entities made from a comfortable gel or foam. Orthopedic innersoles provide a softer surface for the foot and are customizable to better treat what ails your foot.

3. Relieve the pressure of contact on troublesome spots. Some orthopedic shoes have a design that holds pads in place against corns, bunions, calluses and abrasions. Orthopedic s counterbalance foot conditions such as drop foot and hammertoes formed by poorly constructed shoes that often deform the growing tissue in a young person’s foot. Orthopedic shoes also give you a more natural step action.

4. Stimulate blood flow through the foot. The innersoles of orthopedic shoes play an important role in the proper blood flow through the feet. Many have a textured surface of small raised nubs that help stimulate the nerves of the foot. This provides for a better flow through the limb while decreasing the chance of swelling or hemorrhaging.

5. Orthopedic shoes are becoming more stylish. People with sensitive feet such as those with arthritis or diabetes often wear orthopedic shoes. However, more and more people are realizing that not only do these shoes offer great health benefits, but there are also lots of styles to choose from. Orthopedic shoes are available in many designs ideal for both work and play.
For more information about orthopedic shoes visit: Drewshoe.com

Why Digital Cameras Are Better Than 35 Millimeters

2009-04-06T09:40:00.001-05:00

Ten years ago, nobody believed that a digital camera could compete with the legendary 35 millimeter, not even retailers such as Best Buy, P.C. Richard & Son or Cameta Camera. Over the last decade, the digital camera has risen in popularity among professional photographers, photography students, camera enthusiasts and laypersons alike, moving them away from the world of regular film and into the digital realm. Below are seven reasons to consider buying a digital camera instead of a 35 millimeter.

1. They are high quality. Digital cameras have a wider dynamic range, with the ability to capture detail simultaneously in shadows and highlights, and many come with a “noise reduction” feature that removes “hot spots” and mottling (grain-like appearance) for a clearer, brighter image.

2. They are more convenient. With a digital camera you don’t have to develop any of your pictures, saving you time as well as money. You can also upload all of your pictures onto your computer quickly and easily without the use of a scanner.
3. They may be cheaper in the long run. Most digital cameras cost more than 35 millimeters, but since digital imaging is reducing in cost, digital cameras have become a better value.

4. They are more fun. You can easily crop, edit and share digital images on your computer and create interactive digital photo albums of your favorite photos.
5. They give pictures instantly. Unlike a standard 35mm camera, where you can’t see the picture you have taken until it is developed (which can take anywhere from an hour to an entire week), digital cameras allow you view and print your pictures within seconds.

6. There are never any surprises. You can relax when you take pictures with a digital camera knowing that if you take a picture and it comes out poorly, all you have to do is delete it and try again.

7. They are easy to use. It usually takes years for photography students to develop the skills, timing and experience that are necessary take quality photos with a 35mm. Digital cameras are easier to operate making them great for beginners who want to learn the tools of the trade.

The Top Six Nightclubs and Venues in Las Vegas

2009-04-03T15:22:00.008-05:00

Nightclubs such as the Ghost Bar, Moon Club and the world-renowned Playboy Club, are just a few of the fabulous places to party along the Las Vegas Strip. From high-class entertainment, fine dining, gaming and lounging, Las Vegas has it all. Below are the top six nightclubs and venues in Las Vegas.

Ghost Bar – Located on the 55th floor of the Palms Casino Resort, this venue is an elegant and stimulating destination for cocktails and socializing, fully capable of hosting parties and events for up to 300 guests. The sultry and sophisticated indoor-outdoor lounge at the Ghost Bar captures the heart of Las Vegas from the night sky to the city below, through a glass inset in the floor that offers a jaw-dropping view straight down. Specialty Ghost Bar cocktails include champagne concoctions, high-end wines and “ghostinis,” a unique blend of Absolut, Midori and a splash of sour, served seven nights a week.

TAO – Brought to Las Vegas by the same owners as the famous Marquee nightclub and TAO restaurant in New York City, Club TAO is the newest addition to the Las Vegas nightlife scene. Combining fine dining, with the luxury of ordering from a five star menu, and NYC DJs who spin the latest tracks from the realm of hip hop and house music, TAO is the ultimate club for late night dining and dancing. TAO VIPS can gain full access to one of eight skyboxes fully equipped with espresso machines, banquettes and mini-bars for the utmost in privacy and pleasure.

Moon – Moon occupies the top floor of the Palms’ Fantasy Tower, just above Nove Italiano and the Playboy Club, and it is the exclusive penthouse nightclub on the Las Vegas Strip. The main room of the Moon Nightclub has what is arguably the most spectacular architectural design in all of Las Vegas, a massive retractable roof that opens up to provide an incredible and mind-blowing view of the stars above. When the roof retracts, it is accompanied with theatrical music and a laser and fog show that makes the scene even more incredible, giving party-goers one fabulous night to remember.

Venetian – Between the frescos, the gourmet food, canals, gondolas and strolling performers, The Venetian truly brings the spirit of Venice to Vegas. The breathtaking mega-resort combines the latest technology with the art and culture of Venice, with a wealth of shopping experiences in the 500,000-square-foot Grand Canal Shoppes that literally has a canal winding through it with gondolas drifting along its length. With a wide variety of five-star restaurants, Italian-inspired eateries, attractions and pools that resemble the fountains of Italian palazzos, the Venetian is as close as you’ll come to visiting Venice itself.

Body English – Body English is the Las Vegas nightclub that brings new meaning to the letters V-I-P. The club features two self-contained bars, both on different levels, with 41 VIP booths within a 7,500 sq. ft. space. The posh VIP area, which overlooks a massive dance floor, is lined with plush leather booths for bottle service, and the lower level of the club, known as The Parlor, offers a second bar with additional VIP reserved tables. When you combine the private lounge, full bar and DJ scene with privacy glass preventing onlookers from seeing inside, you get one ultimate VIP experience.

Playboy Club –Upon entering the Playboy Club at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, one’s eyes are torn between the Diamond Bar, which is built out of 10,000 diamond-shaped crystals, and the gorgeous hostess Bunnies who are glammed up in their new Roberto Cavalli-designed costumes. Every element of the club is custom made to reflect the spirit of the original Playboy Clubs, from the bunny buttons on the sofas to the collage wallpaper in the bathrooms, which feature every centerfold from the last twenty five years. The slot machines in the gaming pits are branded with the Playboy logo and the entire south wall of the main room is covered with 60 plasma screens displaying visual riches from the archives of Playboy Enterprises, Inc., capturing the lifestyle the Playboy Club has always, and will always, represent to the world.

Seven Ways Liposuction Can Change Your Life

2009-03-27T10:05:00.002-05:00

Men and women undergo liposuction for a variety of reasons, and cosmetic surgeons such as Dr. Stephen Greenberg, otherwise known as “The Liposuction Doctor,” have found that liposuction not only reduces unwanted fat, but can also have a dramatic effect on a patient's entire mind, body and well-being. Below are seven ways liposuction can change your life.

1. Liposuction boosts self-confidence. Most patients who have undergone liposuction reported not only an increase in their confidence, but they also developed a new interest in activities they had previously avoided because of their appearance.

2. It can reduce health problems. Weight loss, even from liposuction, is the best way to reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and even certain types of cancer.

3. It can improve your overall well-being. Men and women who regularly suffer from upper and lower back pain, neck pain and severe headaches can sometimes eliminate these problems through liposuction.

4. Your clothes will fit better. The body smoothing and contouring performed by surgeons like Dr. Greenberg can make you look better and feel more comfortable in your clothes. You may even be able to wear a smaller size.

5. It puts your body in proportion. A liposuction procedure from Dr. Greenberg can eliminate unwanted pockets of fat that tend to accumulate disproportionately in various areas of the body, giving you a more desirable overall appearance.

6. Results can encourage exercise and healthy eating. Liposuction can result in an improved self-esteem causing patients to improve their lifestyle as well. Many women find it easier to eat right and exercise when they already feel good about their appearances.

7. It can make you happier. Once the body is sculpted exactly the way a person wants, they tend to forget about their frustrations towards their weight. People who have undergone liposuction also claim to have a better social life and sex life.

The Top Ten Stylish Orthopedic Shoes

2009-03-24T13:58:00.003-05:00

Although most people would agree that orthopedic shoes offer comfort, support and stability, very few would refer to them as “stylish.” Although orthotics carry the burden of looking ugly, unattractive or untrendy, there may be some middle ground between comfort and style. Below is a list of the top ten most stylish orthopedic shoes that can help you close the gap.

1. Holly – Ideal for both casual and dress attire, the Holly women’s slip on is lightweight, comfortable and customizable for any foot shape because of its adjustable side buckle. The Holly features a Velcro brand fastened removable footbed, memory foam, a stretch gore instep strap and full leather linings. The Holly also has a removable insole, which can be replaced with a custom orthotic for added depth and a longer-lasting shoe life. The tempered steel shank on the Holly also provides added arch support and overall stability.

2. Women’s Finn Comfort Newport – Great for work or leisure, the women’s Finn Comfort Newport is a lightweight loafer with a removable orthopedic footbed made of cork, latex and rich organic suede lining. The Newport also has a shock-absorbing polyurethane outsole that reduces stress on the joints and bones. This therapeutic shoe is contemporary, versatile and comfortable, and has an elastic side gore that stretches to accommodate for a better fit and easy wearing.

3. Easy II – The Easy II combines a one-piece Velcro closure, padded tongue and collar, and two insoles that are moldable, contoured, cushioned and removable for customization and added shock resistance. This highly therapeutic men's shoe accommodates for prescribed orthotics and contains double the depth of a traditional shoe. The Easy II also features Drilex lining to wick away moisture, a rocker bottom, a wide shank and a flared polyurethane outsole.

4. Orthofeet Men’s Oxford Style Casual Lace-Up Shoe – Orthofeet’s Oxford Style shoes are made from soft, genuine leather and are padded with foam that conforms to the foot to eliminate painful pressure points, provide cushioning for the foot and prevent irritation. The Oxford has an insole that is designed for additional arch support and shock absorption with two sets of removable spacers accommodating for adjustable insole depth.

5. Aetrex Lace-Up Men’s Walker Y910 – The Aetrex men’s walker combines stability, control and cushioning with a state-of-the-art design. The Aetrex Men’s Walker is unique in its ability to customize its fit and comfort through the PRS (Pressure Relief System) Insole, providing an equal distribution of pressure throughout the gait cycle while maintaining comfort, support and breathability. Additional features of the Aetrex include a moisture-transferring polyester lining, a lace-up oxford design, high slip resistant outsoles and removable orthopedic insoles that absorb shock and cushion the foot from heel to toe.

6. Becky – The Becky is the perfect shoe for women who are looking for functional style with a touch of sophistication. This therapeutic shoe offers added depth through removable, moldable and dual-density insoles that also create extra toe space and additional room for prescribed orthotics. The Becky combines the comfort and convenience of a one-piece Velcro brand strap and is made from soft leathers with a tempered steel shank that provides for added arch support and overall stability.

7. Aetrex Women’s Barbara Lace-Up Shoe – Part of the Aetrex Essential Living collection, the women’s Barbara lace-up shoe contains a footbed that is removable for added depth and customizable to relieve pressure points on your feet. The polyester sockliner and upper lining of the shoe help wick away moisture and the slip-resistant polyurethane outsole offers sure footing and shock absorption. The Barbara also provides a roomy toe area with lacing at the forefoot, and has a firm heel counter and soft padded collar to help hold the heel in place.

8. Propet Men’s Non-Slip Restaurant Shoe – Ideal for professionals who work on slick, wet and oily surfaces while on the job, the Propet men’s Non-Slip Restaurant shoe helps prevent falls and accidents by improving traction with its grip rubber outsole. The shoe features a sharp, professional design that is comfortable, practical and fashionable. The external and internal heel counter found in this men’s Propet shoe prevents heel and arch pain for all-day support, and the removable insole with cushion gel provides reliable comfort. The restaurant shoe accommodates for custom orthotics and has a maximum grip rubber outsole for a non-slip finish.

9. Naot Women’s Shoe, Scotland – This handmade shoe is made from Italian leather with a high-quality rubber and polyurethane sole that retains flexibility while resisting erosion. The shock-resistant footbed is wide, providing support that distributes body weight equally over the entire foot and wicks away moisture to protect the feet. The elevated center of the insole releases pressure in the joints of the central part of the foot and the added arch support reduces pressure generated by the spinal column. The deep heel indentation in the shoe also helps the body’s balance and protects the heel bone.

10. P.W. Minor Men’s LS Super X Shoe – A top of the line orthopedic dress shoe, the P.W. Minor men’s LS Super X shoe is part of P.W. Minor’s Xtra Depth and Super Depth collection, providing 25% additional depth for custom prescribed orthotics. The steel shank, leather sole and long inside counter of the LS Super X provide stability and support, and the Ultra Soft lining material features an anti-microbial fabric that wicks away moisture for added protection.

Canon EOS Rebel XSi

2009-03-24T09:47:00.005-05:00

I finally did it, I went out and bought the Canon EOS Rebel XSi last weekend. I debated over it for awhile being that it's a costly camera and money is tight. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Canon EOS Rebel XSi, its 12.3 mega pixel DSLR(digital single-lens reflex). I went to Best Buy at one point and really liked the Canon Rebel XSi but the people at Cameta Camera made me fall in love with the camera. Not only did they give me a full demonstration but the price was significantly less then the prices at Best Buy.

DSLR's have a ton of manual settings so the user can adjust everything from the shutter speed to the apeture settings to the film speed and more. For users who aren't sure what they are doing, DSLR's also have a ton of automatic settings. ideally you can take more interesting shots with the manual settings but regardless a DSLR like my Canon Rebel XSi will take much a better shot any day then a point and shoot camera. To anyone debating on getting a DSLR I strongly recommend the Canon EOS Rebel XSi its an amazing camera that takes more amazing shots. At Cameta Camera i was very concerned buying it but once I used my new DSLR later that night I loved it and knew i made the right choice.

Latisse

2009-03-12T10:08:00.008-05:00

There is only one way to naturally grow your eyelashes, that is Latisse. Latisse is a prescription-strengthed drug initially created to treat glaucoma, but the product resulted in enhancing users eyelashes while on the medication. Latisse's results are expected to be seen 8 weeks and 16 for maximal results, causing side effects in 4% of its users. Latisses side effects include itchy eyes and redness.

Latisse, a drug sold by Allergan, the company makes botox and sells for approx $120. with doctors prescription. When using Latisse be sure to use only once a day on the upper eyelashes. If you wish to stop using Latisse it may take a couple of months before the effects where off.

"Personal i'd prefer trying an fda approved drug over surgery anyday, i hope you agree. When I met with Doctor Prasad, in New York City, to consult over an eyelash transplant, he realized my concerns of going into surgery and suggested Latisse, a far cheaper alternative solution. Before I knew it thanks to Doctor Prasad, I was on the subway with with my alternate solution Latisse hoping i made the right decision. Its been about a week and a half of use and so far minor results and no surgery."

For more information on Latisse visit Latisse.com

Inspiration For Kids

2009-01-06T09:41:00.003-06:00

They say that all songs and videos have a lesson to be learned. Today it seems most music and video revolve on around violence. I ve seen young children playing video games such as Grand theft auto, watching movies such as Hostel and listen to music such as 5o cent. i enjoy each but i feel there are certain things that should not be available to children.

Im pleased to say I found something for children. Smart Music 4 Kids is a system of specific songs,videos,activities, and rewards packaged together with the intention to educate your children through music and fun. The music cds along with the dvds each are filled with lessons about patience, self esteem, compassion, tolerance, problem solving friendship etc. Heres the fun part. smartmusic4kids also comes with an activity book filled with trivia puzzles and games to help your child retain the important lessons they have learned. If the child has done everything correctly to help boost their self esteem smartmusic4kids also gives several achievement certificates, to make them feel good about themselves.

For 25 bucks smartmusic4kids seems likes the best thing for kids. Music, Activities, videos, which teach the child important life lessons, with rewards in a fun away. My niece got smartmusic4kids this year for christmas and right now shes attached to it. I can already see that she has learned a bit from it so hopefully it effects your kids the same way.

The Top Five Children's Television Characters That Parents and Families Love

2008-12-29T08:50:00.003-06:00

Every parent wants to teach their children lessons in life but sometimes they could use a helping hand. Below are the top five characters from children’s television that parents have grown to know, love and trust.

Doodles the Crayon – Doodles is just one of the lovable characters from the award-winning and New York Emmy-nominated preschool series Sheira & Loli's Dittydoodle Works. Doodles is the wise-cracking, arrogant yet confident crayon who teaches preschoolers important life lessons through a series of catchy and upbeat songs.

Elmo – Elmo is the outgoing and curious little red monster who first appeared on the popular children’s television series Sesame Street in 1979. He now occupies the last 15 to 20 minutes of each Sesame Street episode in a segment called Elmo’s World where he teaches toddlers the importance of imagination and routine.

Barney the Dinosaur – Barney is the friendly purple dinosaur from the Emmy Award-winning television series Barney & Friends. Barney recently celebrated his 20th birthday and his show remains among the top educational programs for preschoolers.

Dora Marquez - Dora is the lovable, smart and strong 7-year-old Latina girl from the hit animated children’s television series Dora the Explorer. Dora speaks Spanish and English and helps teach children observational and problem solving skills through singing and interactive adventures.

Diego Marquez – Diego is the goal-oriented 8-year-old cousin of Dora the Explorer from the action-adventure children’s television series Go, Diego, Go! In each episode, Diego accomplishes his goals with the help of viewers from home while discovering facts about animals and their needs for survival.

Love My Therapeutic Shoes

2008-12-23T15:42:00.004-06:00

So I walk a lot in Manhattan N.Y everyday, sometimes even on the weekends and after a long day I can't wait to take off my heels and put on my Therapeutic Shoes. My legs and feet both feel like they are getting a massage, I love it. I mean they are not exactly the hottest shoes in the world, but I am sure these are a lot healthier than my heels. I know they are a lot more comfortable. I don't know how but apparently my therapeutic shoes help relieve my back pain. I guess because my posture changes and the two must be related. For anyone with back problems i recommend a pair of therapeutic shoes, trust me they will end up being your favorite pair shoes.

Is a Load Balancer Right for Your Business?

2008-12-22T15:50:00.003-06:00

When a server goes down, overloads or is running slowly it could have a tremendous effect on a business. Server issues can significantly “slow a company down” or even prevent them from making money. If server issues have taken a toll on your business or organization a load balancer might be the solution.

A load balancer is the easy-to-use and affordable solution to help companies optimize server traffic and delivery. Load balancers provide the infrastructure for reliable Internet sites and corporate intranets while helping administrators distribute network traffic across web servers. Load balancers also help avoid network congestion, improve network reliability and minimize the cost of transit across external networks.

Load balancers operate through high-availability computer clustering and protect web infrastructures from network vulnerabilities. Load balancers also enhance user experience by giving administrators greater control and enabling them to adapt easily to network changes.

In addition, load balancers help large and small businesses by maintaining uptime when servers fail, distributing network traffic across multiple web servers and scaling data center capabilities. Load balancers also maximize throughput while minimizing network response time.

If your website or intranet is critical to the success of your business or organization it is vital to have an accessible, secure and continuously operating site. Below are four of the most popular names in the world of load balancers, offering products that are equal in quality and priced right starting at just under $8,550.;

KEMP Technologies LoadMaster LM-3500 - $8,540.50

Barracuda Load Balancer 640 - $8,549.05

Zeus Technology ZXTM LB Load Balancer - $8,930.00

XRoads Edge XL-500 SXV Bandwidth Manager - $9,495.25

Marvin Hamlisch's New Gig

2008-12-17T11:37:00.006-06:00

Award winner and composing legend, Marvin Hamlisch, joined the creative team at Rogar Studios to be a musical consultant and composer. Since Marvin Hamlisch always had a passion for children and childrens's music, Rogar Studios believe Marvin Hamlisch would be perfect for composing new music for their most popular shoe Ditty Doodle. To do get an idea of what sort of music Marvin Hamlisch will be composing, Click Here

My Belly Makes Me Look Pregnant (But I'm Not!)

2008-12-09T15:05:00.010-06:00

My Belly Makes Me Look Pregnant (But I'm Not!)
I'm thin everywhere, except that I have a roll of belly and back fat.
By Martica Heaner, M.A., M.Ed., for MSN Health & Fitness
Martica

Q: I'm thin, 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weigh 125 pounds, but I have a roll of stomach and back fat across my entire middle. I look five months pregnant! I eat fairly well but don't do much exercise. What is the best exercise to do to get rid of my belly and back fat?

A: It sounds as if you may weigh little for your height, but your body may contain a low percentage of muscle and a comparatively high percentage of body fat. Someone who is thin, but technically has a high percentage of body fat, can look great in a pair of tight jeans, but take them off and there are jiggles and wobbles, if not some genetically placed spots of fat. Even though you may have thin arms and legs, are they soft, too? If so, that may be a sign that your body is losing muscle and accumulating fat, and the excess fat is gathering in areas where you're genetically inclined to store it: your middle.

Scale weight is a subject of great debate. Some people feel that it doesn't matter at all (such as serious weight lifters who weigh slightly heavier than what's considered a normal, but have very low amounts of body fat), and some people think that scale weight is the holy grail, judging what shape they are in solely by how much they weigh.

For example, a 50-year old woman might feel proud that she still weighs 120 pounds, just as she did at 20 years old. But if she didn't exercise during those 30 years, her body composition will have shifted so that her body doesn't look as good as it did at 20, despite the fact that the scale weight is the same. That's because her muscle tissue declined and body fat accumulated.

Body weight does matter, depending on the individual. A person with 50 or 100 pounds to lose will need to lose body weight and body fat. Simply building muscle alone won't cause the enormous body composition shift that is required to become a lean and healthy weight.

On the other hand, for someone like yourself who doesn't have much weight, if any, to lose, going by scale weight alone is misleading since it does not reflect how much body fat and muscle the body has.

What's the solution?

<============My Thoughts===============>
The article goes on

I agree entirely, we all have a lot of fat that we need to rid our selfs or convert portions of it into muscle to maintain good health. You can click solution and see what Martica Heaner's solutions are. This is where criticism comes in to play. She talks about exercise being the best trick to get rid of all the weight, including "60 minutes or more of cardio on most days of the week." as true as that may seem, The facts are it doesn't work that way for all of us. When we gain weight quickly, such as during pregnancy we will never be able to loose all the fat because in the pregnancy, a woman’s uterus pushes up against her abdominal wall and separates the muscles, which causes a bulge that no amount of exercise can ever eliminate. In other cases people have lives. People work full time jobs with long commutes. If your like this by the time you get home your tired and the last thing you want to do is "(walk, run, bike, use any cardio machine at the gym, dance, etc.)" for up to 60 mins. My thoughts are instead why not just go get a tummy tuck. You'll blow a few grand and you'll be thin again, this works whether you w were pregnant or not. The procedure is short and with a sweet recovery time. With the fat loss, your appetite will curve, you wont eat as much so you'll be saving money food, in theory it will eventually pay for its self. With a lot less baggage your energy level will go through the roof. Seeing a thinner you in the mirror will make your confidence and self esteem go up. This will be great in the work place or trying to pick up a date. Results are quicker and its a lot less time consuming then doing 60 mins of cardio as recommend a day for the rest of your life.

The Best or the Worst Before Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T15:21:00.007-06:00

November 14 I went to a party with some friends, the party was going great until a friend accidenty knocked my camera off a table, shattering the LCD on the floor. Ill be honest, I was pissed. I ended up having him pay for the camera repairs. I found a post talking about a camera repair company because i had no interest in getting a new camera which sounded promising. I tried it. Wednesday November 19th I put my camera in a box and sent it off. To my surprise Precision Camera worked on my camera so fast it was repaired and back to me Wednesday November 26 just in time to grab it and head out to NY to watch the islanders play or should i say loose. I was looking forward to this game for awhile, it was so exciting watching them play beating those penguins, half way through the second period the score was 3 - 0. In a blink of an eye the penguins tied it up and ended the game at 3-5. Either way it was fun photographing the islanders loose with my as good as new camera. It seems like they just cant hold a lead.

The best is being able to use my camera for thanksgiving and the worst is that Islander game

10 Homemade Holiday Gifts

2008-11-26T10:44:00.004-06:00

From the Home – From the heart

It was Christmas morning, I was three, maybe four. Mom opened my present first. I'll never forget the look on her face. She hugged the sock puppet I made for her like it was the very last gift she was ever going to get. She didn't seem to notice that the sock was dirty, the face I drew was on a worn-out heel and was completely crooked. She adored it, not just because it was made by little ol' me, but also because it was homemade. Since then I've been making my own holiday gifts for family and friends. This year I got bored with the same stuff so I turned to the Internet for some new ideas. Hope these ideas help you as much as they have helped me.

1. Make a Photo Book
Turn your favorite photos into beautiful photo books. Just in time for the holidays buy 2 get 1 free

2. Make Your Own Wrapping Paper
Not only can you make the gift yourself; you can wrap it in handmade wrapping paper.

3. Make a Customized Jigsaw Puzzle
Turn a favorite photo into a keepsake puzzle.

4. Make a Snow Globe
These will certainly shake up your gift giving.

5. Create an Heirloom Ornament
This is one ornament that will brighten up any tree.

6. Make a Special Lunch Box
These turn "brown bagging" into a real treat.

7. Make a Ribbon Bulletin Board
Great for the college student, busy mom or office mate.

8. Make Your Own Crayons
Make different shapes and multi-color crayons from bits and pieces of used crayons.

9. Make a Garden Stepping Stone
See just how well a garden grows when you add a custom stepping stone.

10.Make a Magnetic Book Mark
Take a favorite picture and turn it into a book mark that proudly marks the spot.

Cool Lipo - Common Questions and Answers

2008-11-11T14:22:00.009-06:00

Whats CoolLipo?
CoolLipo is a laser based, minimally invasive procedure that aids your doctor in the removal of unwanted fat during a normal liposuction procedure. Most importantly, CoolLipo provides skin tightening. It can be used to treat areas of lax skin that were difficult to do or provided poor results post treatment with conventional liposuction.

How does CoolLipo work?
Your doctor, using a laser fiber held by a hand piece, directs the energy under the skin. Depending on the settings chosen by the doctor the laser energy destroys the unwanted fat cells allowing for gentler removal when using conventional liposuction techniques. Other laser settings allow your doctor to target the dermal layer under your skin, causing the collagen in the sub-surface layer to shrink. It also stimulates new collagen production, allowing an improvement in skin tightening over the next several months.

Does the CoolLipo procedure require anesthesia?
CoolLipo can be done in any doctor's office with local anesthesia. Some doctors may choose general anesthesia if they are performing liposuction work on areas such as the abdomen.

How long does the CoolLipo procedure last?
The CoolLipo procedure times vary in length depending on the amount of fat that needs to be removed.The treatment usually lasts from 1 to 3 hours.

How long does recovery from CoolLipo take?
You can return to your normal routine within a day if you desire. The treated area gets wrapped with a compression dressing for a few days or as your doctor recommends. I would recommend have the procedure on a Friday so Monday you can remove the compression dressing before returning to your normal routine.

How long does it take to see the results from CoolLipo?
It depends, some people see immediate improvement after their procedure. Improvement in skin tightening can last just around 5 months.

Is CoolLipo FDA approved?
The CoolLipo is received FDA clearance for laser-assisted lipolysis in January 2008.

Last Minute Travel

2008-10-29T09:48:00.005-05:00

So I stumbled upon this club, the Last Minute Travel Club not to long ago. When I revisited Last Minute Travel, they had this funny little video up which made me laugh. Anyway when I did the research it looked awesome. What made me skeptical at first was the fifty dollar membership fee. When you think about it, it's like BJ's you pay a few bucks but over the year you make it up drastically in savings. You can easily make that fifty dollars back in your first travel. If you take multiple travels then your making money in a sense.

I joined. I'm spending 3 nights in a hotel in Boston and I'm saving 40 dollars night just by using last Minute Travel Club. I payed fifty to save 120. I already made the money back. What also makes me feel good is all rates are tax inclusive so no taxes. There is a reward program where you can get discounts or even free nights at hotels. I joined and am happy to say I love it!

Progress of The Election

2008-10-24T08:20:00.015-05:00

I really haven't been paying to much attention to the election this past year, because both candidates I feel could be better. Neither one is as qualified as Ron Paul. I found the best mocumentary on the election. Its like the election so far done up in a South Park style. I love seeing Obama as the helpless baby he is.

Top Five Cosmetic Surgical Procedures

2008-10-17T11:34:00.004-05:00

While techniques and methods used in a variety of cosmetic procedures are advancing, 2008 saw a large increase in injectable and noninvasive treatments such as Botox, as well as breast augmentation procedures. Studies have shown that over 10 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in the year 2005 alone, a nearly 40% increase since the turn of the new century. The global market now exceeds $30 billion, with a sustainable compound annual growth rate in the range of 25%.

According to recent statistics, the top trends in cosmetic surgery include:

Breast augmentation
Breast lift
Dermabrasion
Tummy tuck
Botox treatments
Laser skin resurfacing

Cosmetic Webinar

2008-10-15T15:17:00.014-05:00

Hot topics in Cosmetic Surgery Today

Free webinars are the best! The subject doesn't matter, but a chance to take a free seminar from the comfort of your own home is always awesome. I found a webinar on Cosmetic Surgery Hot topics in Cosmetic Surgery Today. A cosmetic surgeon Dr Amiya Prasad is giving a free live webinar Tuesday October 28 to discuss cosmetic surgeries, techniques and even give a 30 minute presentation. Following, Dr Prasad will be giving a Question and Answer session where people can type or call about their questions confidentially. For anyone thinking about getting cosmetic surgery or has a family member interested is cosmetic surgery this maybe a good place to get a lot of information before making that ultimate decision.

Massive Weight Loss Surgery

2008-10-15T14:05:00.005-05:00

Dr Stephen Greenberg is here talking about Massive Weight Loss Surgery. I don't need this procedure done but I know a few people that do. Either Way it is one of the more informative videos I have seen and hope some of you maybe able to use this information to help you make the decision.

Lucille Roberts

2008-10-13T10:28:00.006-05:00

This weekend I visited my friend Beth who moved to New York not too long ago. I stayed at her place for two nights. Beth enjoys working out so on a free pass Beth brought me to her gym, Lucille Roberts. The Lucille Roberts in Bayside Queens was so nice I was impressed not only was it clean but it did not smell like a gym. I use to go to a La Fitness in New Jersey, it was a disaster, rude staff, smelly, dirty the list goes on. I don't know what they where thinking when they built that La fitness, it actually inspired me to quite and stay away from gyms. Anyway, when in Rome or Bayside. We took a kick boxing class Saturday morning at Lucille Roberts which flew by. it was challenging and fun. I'm a little out of shape but it was great having others in the class that looked like me, encouraging me. When it was all over We came out feeling good and had subway for lunch. The next morning I woke up in pain, I want to go back. I found that their are a few Lucille Roberts in New Jersey I just need to find them. I hope Lucille Roberts in New Jeresy are as as nice and as much fun as the one in Bayside Queens.

Early Christmas Shopping

2008-10-13T08:02:00.006-05:00

Personally, I am not a big fan of the holiday crowds at the stores or waiting on the long lines. What annoys me the most is going to a store and finding out the perfect gift advertised is out of stock and backordered until after the holidays. This year, im starting early. I Figure i'll start at the mall this weekend while its still october. Everything I want to buy after Thanksgiving i'll buy from different web sites such as Amazon. Amazon has some nice deals! Im also thinking of different sentimental gifts aswell. The type of gift you ju st cant buy at a normal store something that can't go out of stock such as a gift card photo book or photo mugs or a gym membership or a day at a spa etc.

Top 6 Places to Buy a TV

2008-10-08T08:12:00.005-05:00

After the research has been compiled the following 6 places are what i believe to be the best places to purchase a TV.

6 Costco - The price is excellent, the return policy easy and generous when there is an issue.

5 Wal-Mart - Wal-mart always has the lowest prices although you must do the research yourself.

4 Best Buys - Best Buy has decent prices with an educated staff, price match gaurentee and financing.

3 Amazon - Amazon so many to choose from at affordable price but you cant see what all of them look like nor is thier anyone their to help you

2 ebay - Ebay will be the best place to buy a used tv

1 The High Definition Store - The High Definition Store has great prices, lots of sales, free shipping and no sales tax

Prevent Puffy Eyes

2008-10-07T10:22:00.008-05:00

So you have rings around your eyes that look horrible and you don't know what to do. What now? Many things can make the eyelids and surrounding skin swell. Tired eyes can be dry, itchy, irritated, red, burning watery, puffy and dark circles. There is a cure! Try out these tips and get that fresh face back with ease. If all fails than Try Cosmetic Surgery

Eat plenty of foods rich nutrients such as beta-carotene, vitamin A, C and E, blueberries, bilberries and carotenes in red, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables. Doing so will improve the circulation as well as improve your vision. Stay away salty foods.

Be gentle. Don’t pull or rub your eyes. The skin under your eyelid is easily irritated and inflamed. Certain ingredients in cosmetics are known irritants and can sometimes be responsible for puffy eyes.

For swollen eyelids? Put cotton balls or cosmetic squares into ice cold whole milk. Lie down and apply soaked cotton to swollen eyelids, leaving them for 5 to 10 minutes. Equally effective alternatives would be to take some chilled green (or black) tea bags and large cotton balls. Moisten the cotton balls (2 for each eye) with the chilled herbal tea. Lie down and place them over your eyes for two minutes, then a warm one for one minute, then a cold one again. This boosts the local circulation around the eyes.

Sleep on your back with one or two pillows and try splashing your eyes with cold water after getting up in the morning to reduce local fluid retention.

Swollen eyes and dark circles can sometimes be the result of toxin built up in the body as well as dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water daily in order to flush toxins and excess sodium from your body. When the body is dehydrated, the kidneys try to retain water, which results in puffiness.

For any questions or concerns or wish to register for a free webinar on the surgical procedures click here

11 Ways to Raise a Healthy Child

2008-10-02T15:24:00.002-05:00

11 Ways to Raise a Healthy Child

As a parent, you are an important teacher of health care and health information for your child. Here are 11 recommendations to help you succeed at this important job.

1. Choose breast over bottle.

Breast-feed and you will give your baby a health advantage from day one. Breast milk provides all the nutrients a newborn needs. It also has important antibodies that help babies fight infections. Research shows that breast-fed babies have fewer ear infections and allergies and less diarrhea.

2. Be wise: Immunize.

Immunizations protect your child from serious diseases, such as measles, whooping cough, and hepatitis. Children should receive most of their shots before age 2. But older children and teenagers also need certain shots. Talk with your child's doctor to find out which immunizations your child needs and when.

You may worry that your child will have a reaction to an immunization. But when reactions do occur, they are usually mild. The benefits of immunizing your child far outweigh any potential risks.

3. Take children to checkups.

Your baby needs regular checkups before age 2. After 2, your child's doctor will recommend a checkup schedule that is appropriate for your child. At these checkups, the doctor tracks your child's growth and development. Checkups allow doctors to spot potential problems early, when they are easiest to treat. Checkups are also a good time to ask questions about how to keep your child healthy.

4. Buckle 'em up.

Beginning with your child's first ride home from the hospital, always use a car seat. Car accidents kill and injure more children in the United States than any other type of injury. Protect your children by placing them in a car seat that is appropriate for their weight and height. Be sure to read the directions so that you understand how to properly use the car seat. Most crashes are head-on, so always put kids in the backseat.

Children should use a car seat for as long as possible. Once they have outgrown car seats, they should sit in a booster seat until they are big enough to use a seat belt. For proper fit, the shoulder belt should fit across your child's shoulders, and the lap belt should lie flat and low across the hips.

5. Start dental care early.

Healthy teeth can last a lifetime. So teach kids good dental care at an early age. Even before the first tooth appears, wipe baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding.

Once the first tooth appears, begin brushing. Start flossing your child's teeth as soon as any two teeth touch. Once children begin brushing their own teeth, supervise them to make sure they are doing a good job.

Because letting food sit on the teeth promotes tooth decay, teach children to brush after meals. Bottles filled with milk or juice can also cause decay. So don't put children to bed with a bottle or let them walk around unattended with a bottle. If possible, wean kids from the bottle by age 1.

The American Dental Association recommends that you take your child to a dentist within six months of getting the first tooth and no later than 1 year old. Your child's dentist can tell you how often your child should get regular checkups thereafter.

6. Put safety first.

It only takes a second for an accident to happen. Here are a few basic safety rules:

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Keep medicines and household chemical products where children cannot get to them.
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Don't leave kids unsupervised, especially when they are outside, near the street, or near or in water.
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Make sure your children wear helmets when bicycling.
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If you have guns in the house, make sure that they are kept unloaded and locked up, and that the ammunition is kept in a separate place and locked up, as well.

7. Let kids live smoke-free.

If you smoke, quitting smoking is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children (and yourself). Kids who live with a smoker cough and wheeze more and recover more slowly from colds. Secondhand smoke increases a child's risk for ear infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, and asthma. In addition, infants regularly exposed to smoke are at higher risk for sudden infant death syndrome. For your child's health, and your own, kick the smoking habit.

8. Offer healthy food.

Good nutrition is especially important for growing bodies. Children under 2 have special nutrition needs, and for them low-fat eating is not healthy. By age 5, however, a child's diet should be similar to a healthy adult's, with lots of fruits, vegetables, and grains, and low in fat, sugar and meat.

Make it easy for your children to eat healthfully by offering a wide variety of nutritious food choices. Also, let them help choose what foods to buy.

To promote healthy eating habits, it's important not to force a child to eat or make certain foods off-limits. Doing so may lead to poor eating patterns. A healthy diet can include any food in moderation.

9. Court a love of exercise.

Active kids are healthy kids. Children should be physically active every day. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which includes recommendations for exercise as well as for nutrition, says that children should get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise daily. Regular exercise boosts cardiovascular fitness and overall health. Help your kids be their healthiest by joining them in physical play. Tag, swimming, bicycling, and walking can all be enjoyed as a family.

10. Keep children's skin youthful.

As great as outside play is for kids, there is a downside—sun exposure. Skin cancer later in life is directly related to sun exposure in childhood and adolescence and cumulative sun exposure over a lifetime. When sun exposure has the potential to cause sunburn, kids over 6 months should wear sunscreen, even in the water. Sunscreen should have a minimum SPF of 15. For sensitive areas, such as the nose and ears, use zinc oxide. It is a total block.

Have kids wear clothing made of tightly woven fabrics and hats that shade their face, neck, and ears. To avoid the most intense sun exposure, schedule outdoor playtime before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. whenever possible. Also, have kids play in the shade, where the sun is not as strong.

11. Be a role model.

Children learn many of their most valuable lessons from you. In other words, choose a healthy, active lifestyle for yourself—and include your children in it. Teaching by example makes a lasting impression on your children, and creates healthy family traditions in the process.

Worse Then Super Size Me

2008-10-02T08:34:00.009-05:00

Recently there has been a study showing that children who get proper nutrition excel in school where as children who do not get the proper nutrition struggle through school. Children who get a full breakfast find it easier to pay attention in class which enables more efficient learning. Children who get proper nutrition also do not act out as much in class. Children who suffer from malnutrition get sick more, have a better chance of getting diabetes and some suffer from obesity or mass obesity. there are so many ways to avoid this.
I know a 9 year old whose parents will feed him when ever he wants what ever he wants. The result he's struggling in school, he weighs just over 150, totally lacks common sense and has developed a case of adhd. Its sad that most of his problems can be cured with in the foods he eats. There are so many sources for this information, even in Super Size Me and A Recipe for Good Grades. As seen, if good nutrition habits are not started at an early age then what will happen later on in life when they take these habits to the work place? trust me it gets worse.

Luckily, Dr Yinka Davies, a Pediatric Gastroenterologist has decided to step in. Dr Davies has twin boys who give her similar problems around feeding times. Dr Davie is giving a webinar, Serving Up Good Nutrition to Kids, to discuss these situations and give her own personal professional advice. The webinar will be October 7th, for all of us mothers who are concerned about our children's eating habits and want to prevent the worse.

This is a great free event and personally i don't want to see any more children with such health problems all due to malnutrition.

Top 7 Makeup Brands

2008-10-01T07:47:00.007-05:00

Top 7 Favorite Makeup Brands

Here are my top 7 favorite makeup brands that feel good on my skin and make my skin look great. Actually these are now the only ones I'll use.

7. Lauren Hutton
6. Aveda
5. Clinique
4. Lancome
3. Mac
2. Cover Girl
1. Cosmetic Surgeon In A Jar

A Thought About Jewelry

2008-09-30T11:44:00.009-05:00

Wearing nice jewelry is just another part of looking the part and making your self feel good. Jewelry is like a little flare of attraction or flash of wealth. Jewelry can also tell people about your about yourself. Some Stones represents moods or months other, like diamonds represent fortune. The interesting fact about most jewelry is it all comes from rocks. To some people these rocks are worth a lot more then cars. How come all rocks aren't worth a fortune? What makes certain ones special, valuable, desirable. I found Answers TV to have of answers, while Blue Nile is the place to buy.

New Cosmetic Trends

2008-09-26T14:31:00.008-05:00

Today, the economy is pretty bad, so is the job market. Studies show many people in their 40's and 50's feel insecure when going on job interviews. People feel competition against a younger crowd. People often believe at job interviews they are judged by their appearance opposed to their skills. To prevent this, A new trend is emerging for people in their 40's and 50's. This trend involves getting non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed to turn back the clock ten to fifteen years. There is going to be a special on this new trend during the Monday, September 29Th, news on channel 2 CBS at 11pm featuring cosmetic surgeon, Dr Amiya Prasad.

Samsung - LN46A630, Best Deal Ever

2008-09-26T10:59:00.008-05:00

For awhile I have been contemplating a new tv. Which one to get? Where to get it? what size? the list of questions is endless. After a couple of weeks I finally decided to take a leap with a 46inch Samsung LCD. LCD's last longer then plasmas and can be wall mounted which the DLP's and projections cannot. I just needed to Find one with 1080p resolution and a high contrast ratio. Here it is Samsung - LN46A630 sounds good but you know what it looks better in my bedroom. I purchased it form the highdefinitionstore which a friend recommend to me in NY. I live in New Jersey. They where the only place I could find with a decent price. they even delivered my TV for free of charge with no sales tax. I feel I have saved so much money through the highdefinitionstore.com. Now I'm deciding on a home stereo system to amplify the sound of my Samsung - LN46A630. Its like having my own personal movie theater at home.

Serving Up Good Nurition to Kids

2008-09-23T08:43:00.007-05:00

Tired of trying to please your picky eaters? Worried about how many fruits and Veggies your child doesn't eat in a day? Stress no more. Real Savvy Moms is giving a Webinar, Serving Up Good Nutrition to Kids on October 8th. Serving Up Good Nutrition to Kids teaches us parents how to give proper nutrition to our children while eleminating the stressful hassles over unliked foods..