HOLIDAY INFORMATION

Annual Travel Insurance - Is It Enough?

2007-04-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

Annual Travel Insurance - Is It Enough?
by Peter Ecob

In theory an annual travel insurance policy sounds great, you pay a one-off fee and all your journeys are covered for the next 12 months. For most standard journeys this is fine but if you delve deeper into the conditions of your policy you may find the level of cover is not as comprehensive as first appears.
Today people travel for a wide range of reasons and the travel insurance policies available to you have evolved to meet the more varied demand for appropriate cover. The nature of your travel and the activities you have planned upon your arrival now have a huge impact in determining which travel insurance policy is right for you. In this guide we will look at which policies are suitable for certain types of travel.
If you are planning to take a winter holiday you may want to consider taking out winter sports insurance. This form of insurance provides cover for activities such as skiing and snowboarding, covering both injuries and the loss or damage of sports equipment. Fewer than 60 countries have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK and without adequate cover a broken leg in Switzerland could cost you around £25,000.
If your holiday is likely to involve you taking part in adventure activities such as bungee jumping or white-water rafting it would be advisable to take out a form of adventure holiday insurance. Many of these adventure activities may be exempt from a traditional travel insurance policy so failing to take out appropriate cover could mean you facing a hefty bill should something go wrong. When purchasing adventure holiday insurance always ensure your planned activities are covered by the policy.
A backpacking holiday is another activity that can require a specialised policy. Backpackers insurance is a form of long term insurance that can last up to 18 months. Policies also cover you when working abroad which may be necessary when travelling for a long period of time, particularly for students. When taking out backpackers insurance it is essential to check that all the countries you plan to visit are covered by the policy, particularly if you're travelling to countries where your EHIC card is not valid. Also remember that some third world or war-torn countries may not be covered.
If your work requires you to travel abroad you should consider taking out business insurance. This type of policy can cover business equipment such as laptops and PDAs and business documents. Some policies also cover the travel expenses if you are taken ill and another member of staff has to fly out and take your place. Business insurance also covers you for personal injury and liability, something that insurance provided by your employer may not.
Many standard insurance policies have an upper age limit (usually this is 65). Once you breach this limit travel insurance can become more expensive as you are considered a higher risk. In this situation you should seek insurance from providers who specialise in cheap travel insurance for the over 65s. Regardless of your age if you have any pre-existing medical conditions it is vital to let your insurance company know before buying the insurance. Such a condition is likely to increase the cost of your policy but it's a small price to pay; if you fail to declare any medical issues your insurance policy is unlikely to cover you and this could result in a large bill for any medical treatment.
As you can see the type of travel insurance you need varies wildly depending on the nature of your journey. In addition to choosing the correct type of policy also remember to check your travel insurance covers all the basics including medical expenses, loss of luggage, money and passports, repatriation costs, cancelled or delayed flights and damage to third parties.
When looking to save money on your travel insurance remember that choosing the correct policy is just as important and a few extra pounds could save you thousands.
About the Author
If you are searching for cheap travel insurance be sure to compare policies online. By searching hundreds of policies instantly you can get a great deal on your travel insurance.

Queensland- Top 10 Hot Spots

2007-04-03T05:53:00.000-07:00

Queensland- Top 10 Hot Spots
by Jenny Brewer

1. Brisbane:There is so much to do in Queenslands capital city. Visit the Alma Park Zoo, picnic and swim at Southbank Parklands or view the city and coastal region from Mt Cootha lookout. There is always the option of the exhilarating Storey Bridge Climb, or why not take the ferry over to Stradbroke Island for a relaxing day trip. 2. Gold Coast:Known for its amazing theme parks, this is the ultimate holiday destination. Visit the tourist strip at Surfers Paradise with long stretches of white beaches, Currumbin Bird Sanctuary and Sea World are great for a family day trip, or for thrill seekers you cant go past Dream World or Movie World. 3.Lamington National Park:Including the Gold Coast Hinterland and stretching out to the surrounding mountains and valleys, you will find amazing rainforest and walking trails here with popular attractions including Binna Burra, Springbrook National Parks and Coomera Gorge. Mount Barney National Park and Mount Warning offer incredible walking trails, camping sites and lookouts. 4. Glasshouse Mountains:Easily accessible from the Bruce Highway, this tourist region offers exhilarating lookouts and camping spots at Coochin Creek. The best walks are Glasshouse Mountains Lookout and Wild Horse Mountain Lookout. Mount Tibrogargan is the most impressive as it looms over the forest below. The famous Australia Zoo is also close by at Beerwah. 5.Noosa:Being the main tourist centre of the Sunshine Coast, Noosa is a very popular tourist spot. The Cooloola National Park and Noosa National Park both offer fantastic camping sites with raw natural beauty. Hastings Street is the place to be for stylish shopping and beach side restaurants, and head to the Noosa River for all types of water sports, fishing and boating activities. 6. Montville:Located in the Sunshine Hinterland, this area is popular for weekend retreats and day trips. With exquisite art and craft shops and sweeping views of the coast through to the Glasshouse mountains, it is perfect for a weekend getaway or stopover. Visit Lake Baroon for a picnic, or travel down to Maleny for some more sightseeing. 7. Sunshine Coast:Packed with tourists, this region includes Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore and Coolum. It also extends to the great Blackall Range. There is so much to see, with fantastic coastal drives and blue waters. It is the ideal base for a relaxing holiday in the sun. 8. Mackay:This tropical city is a great base to explore the neighbouring islands such as stunning Brampton Island or smaller Keswick Island. Dont miss the Mackay Botanic Gardens or Marina Village close to the city centre. The coastline offers fantastic drives and scenery. The Cape Hillsborough National Park is located north from the city has excellent campsites and stunning beaches, plus inland lies the Eungella National Park which features the Finch Hatton Gorge. 9. Lower Barrier Reef Islands:This southerly region of the Barrier Reef is teeming with underwater beauty, known for unique tourist islands such as Heron, Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave. Most popular activities include underwater diving and exploring the exquisite coral reefs, just metres away from the beach. Easily accessible for a day trip from Bundaberg or Gladstone. 10. Townsville:This is the ideal city to visit the lush tropical islands off the coast such as Orpheus, Dunk, Magnetic and beautiful Bedarra. The Hinchinbrook Island National Park is another world heritage listed gem that is a popular tourist hideaway. Why not take the family to the Billabong Wildlife Santuary close to the city, or relax at the Strand on the beachfront. Alligator Creek, next to the lovely Bowling Green Bay is great for a day trip.
About the Author
Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Car Hire Australia

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Online accommodation for Koh Phangan

2007-04-02T05:11:00.000-07:00

Online accommodation for Koh Phangan
by Clint Jhonson

In the past few years, many people have turned their attention to unique holiday places and Thailand proved out to be one of the most popular. The island of Koh Phangan is visited by millions of people, looking for possibility to loosen up and who are captivated by this corner of heaven.
Situated in the gulf of Thailand, Koh Phangan can be easily reached in various ways and it can offer different choices for accommodation. The Internet has served very well to the advertising of exotic holiday destinations and today there are literally hundreds of websites on such subjects. The important thing is to stick with the one that presents the most interesting and easy to comprehend information.
What does the Internet has to say about the island of Koh Phangan? It starts with it being a wonderful destination, with white beaches and beautiful gardens. The accommodation offers online refer mainly to bungalows and houses but there are many other opportunities. The prices differe on the type of property one is interested in and also on the rental period.
The island of Koh Phangan is reputed for many things but nearly all the tourists are attracted by the incredible beaches, with an almost virgin look and likewise by the ethnic experience. The traditional cuisine is another element for which this island is known worldwide, including fascinating dishes with plenty of seafood.
When it comes to accommodation on the island of Koh Phangan, there are several options and they are very well presented online by professional websites. These are trying to highlight that there are many rental and sale possibilites, helping the customer to narrow down available choices. For any property, they present the surroundings, the main characteristics and of course the price. All these things are important and this is why specialized resources try to make them as accurately as possible.
For some tourists, saving money on the property rental is highly important. The purpose of these websites is to provide their customers with a wide variety of offers, with all kinds of properties and rental agreements. Also, it is significant to present a little of this tropical island and what opportunities are there. This may serve very well for the tourist, making him/her to take a better and informed decision.
Aside from the strolling down the beach and bathing in the wonderful waters, one can also enjoy training courses for snorkeling, fishing and benefit from the incredible herbal steam rooms. Apart from those, certain facilities offered include yoga, massage and other natural therapies. For more active tourists there are presented online special experiences regarding hiking, boxing and even elephant trekking.
All the tourists looking for accommodation in this amazing island should know that the Internet holds out the best information possible. Specialists are prepared to suit every taste of the customer, especially in case of the cozy and lovely bungalows. These are enjoyed by couples, wanting to retreat and be just themselves, in their intimacy.
The Internet can be a great online resource for property rental or sale, long/short term rental and bungalow possibilities. There are a multitude of offers online for accommodation on this beautiful island and one may be interested to check out the special offers. Thailand has many things to provide and it can tranform into one of the best holidays ever taken.
About the Author
Vacation houses and bungalows are just some of the accommodation we have in store for you, as the next tourist to visit the tropic island of Koh Phangan. Start your search for a perfect holiday using our services and you will see that you do not have to go any further.

Visiting London

2007-03-31T04:49:00.000-07:00

Visiting London
by Kate Bond

While visiting London, don't forget these popular attractions. If you have always dreamed of visiting London and seeing the sights, you may have wondering what to do when you get there. There is so much to see and do in London when visiting that to see everything could take months. What if you only have a couple of weeks? Finding the tourist attractions that fit your agenda can be simplified by using this list of some of the top hot spots for tourists visiting London. Obviously, there is much more to London than what is listed here. These are just the essentials to touring one of the oldest cities in the world. Top Museums To See While Visiting London First on our list is the National Gallery. It houses one of the greatest collections of European paintings. If you are familiar with Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt or Van Gogh, this museum houses those collections and several others from famous artists. There are literally thousands of exhibits to see and it could take days to see it all. Special guided tours and holiday events make visiting extra fun. To get there, just ask to visit Trafalgar Square and walk from there. This museum is often considered the number one place to see while visiting London. Another great spot is the Natural History Museum. Kids dig the dinosaur exhibits. Not to be missed is the earthquake simulator and an elephant bird egg. This museum is interactive, educational and rewarding for anyone with a curious mind. Located on Cromwell Road, this museum is great for families. London isn't just a great place to visit the hundreds of museums; you can also take a peek at some of its most favorite landmarks. London is well known for its palaces and other historical buildings that allow visiting and tours. One of the most highly visited buildings in the London area is Buckingham Palace. It gives you the opportunity to see the Royal Throne Room, Ballroom and more on it's tour. Don't forget the world famous changing of the guards. Also, the Palace gardens are exquisite for anyone who likes to see a little green. You won't want to forget your camera. The Tower of London, a highly recommended place for anyone visiting the city, offers tours throughout most of the year. This tower began its life in 1078, when William the Conqueror first ordered its construction. The tower itself has been the location of palaces, prisons and even a zoo. Learn of its history by taking a free guided tour of this most famous tower, home of the Crown Jewels of England. The Rest Of The Best To See While Visiting London If looking for an experience you'll never forget, London offers its unique London Dungeon. This frightening tour offers an image of London in its most deadliest and frightening times. This fun adventure let's you explore the Great Plague, Jack the Ripper and more killer fun. For a family vacation, London offers its visitors a fantastic zoo. The London Zoo offers exotic animals, tiny and strange bugs and loads of fun for guests of any age. With over 650 animals on display, you won't want to miss this adventure. Admission also includes exquisite gardens, exceptional architecture and fine art exhibits. Whatever sort of attractions you crave, London offers some of the best in the world. When you book a trip, remember the top picks but also invent your own adventure while visiting London, England.
We run a High-Class escort and it's been a good number of years since we first launched the London escorts agency Bond & Mayfair web site. Originally we weren't based on the web at all, business has always been booming and all we had to do is rely on adverts in magazines such as What's On etc...good advertising is partly what we needed to do. Times have changed but in fact for the better in many ways as we are now the most recognised and respected escort agency in the UK.
To have a successful London escorts agency you need to put in long hours with a lot of determination and dedication. This is the minimum effort you need to actually stay in business in this industry, a lot of people will try to bring you down and try to make you look small. They think they know everything that there is to know but really and truly they don't know much at all, these are the 'Bedroom Boyz'.
Looking at the industry from a distance it is getting much better as more and more people are beginning to realise that acquiring cheap service from a so called high-class London escort agency is not always the right choice. Most of the time they get burnt.
Bond & Mayfair will at all times strive to provide the best value for you and we constantly keep a perfect blend of old world service at the same time keeping modern demands and comforts as high priority.
There are many others just likes us that are trying very hard to keep things nice, clean, friendly and professional but the list is now beginning to grow endlessly and only the best are being remembered.London escorts agency owner living in central London
About the Author
London escorts agency owner living in central London

The History And Origin Of Valentines Day

2007-01-17T19:01:00.000-08:00

The History And Origin Of Valentines Day
The oldest Valentine card still in existence was sent in 1415 by Charles Duke of Orleans, at the time a prisoner in the Tower of London, to his wife. The Duke's Valentine's card is now preserved and displayed in the British Museum.
However, the origins of Valentine's Day lie in ancient Rome. Over the years the ever expanding Roman empire became more difficult to police and there was an increasing shortage of soldiers. Believing that married men were too attached to their families and unlikely to sign up for active service, Emperor Claudius II banned marriage, thinking this would increase the number of quality recruits.
The story goes that a Christian priest by the name of Valentine, seeing the unhappiness and trauma that resulted, secretly married couples in defiance of the new law.
It wasn't long before Emperor Claudius found out about Valentine's actions and the priest was imprisoned and eventually executed on February 14, 270.
Whilst in prison, Valentine was befriended by his jailer, a character called Asterius. Asterius had a blind daughter and the jailer asked Valentine to cure her, which he supposedly did. Shortly before his execution, Valentine asked for writing implements and signed a farewell message to the jailer's daughter "From your Valentine", a phrase that has lived on, much to the delight of modern day florists, rose growers and card companies!
Author: Tony Luck runs a personalized gifts site that specializes, among other things, in personalized ceramics - greeting cards, commemorative plates and tankards.

Birthday Gift Baskets ? The Ideal Gift For Everyone!

2007-01-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

Birthday Gift Baskets ? The Ideal Gift For Everyone!
No matter how old we are, we enjoy being remembered on that special day of the year that celebrates the day we were born! Birthdays are a time to recognize special people in our lives with joyous celebration. It is a time-honored tradition to pay tribute the birthday gal or guy with a mouth-watering cake decorated with sugar-laden frosting sculptures and a candle representing every year of their life on earth! We bestow on them gifts and cards filled with birthday verses and best wishes for many more birthdays to come. Birthdays are just plain fun!
Typically, the most difficult part of the birthday celebration is deciding what to buy the recipient. After all, what do you buy for someone who has it all? Admit it ? every year it becomes more difficult to find the "perfect" gift for your mom, dad, sibling, husband, and even the kids in your family. How much time do you spend thinking about it and ultimately browsing through department stores without a clue?
Birthday gift baskets are an excellent choice for the birthday gal or guy at any age ? they are virtually fail-proof and always a big hit with the recipient. The question may come to mind, "What are the perfect ingredients for a gift basket?" That will vary from one individual to the next. The great thing about birthday gift baskets is that they can be built for children and adults of any age ? and based on their unique interests and likes. The following ideas may help you in selecting a birthday gift basket for everyone on your list:
Women
You can't ever go wrong with a birthday basket designed for every special woman in your life, whether it is your mom, grandmom, wife, sister, or daughter. Women love to be pampered. A pampering basket may include bath and body products, a loofah, a fragrant candle, an inspirational book, and a CD of soothing sounds of nature. The woman who enjoys gardening would welcome a basket containing a garden trowel, gloves, decorative garden picks, seeds, and hand lotion packed in a decorative flower pot. For the tea lover, a perfect basket would consist of flavored teas, biscotti, a tea infuser, and a china tea pot.
Men
Men are not as hard to please as you think ? and a birthday gift basket is a perfect solution for that hard-to-buy for dad, husband, brother, grandfather, son, or boss! If he is your handyman, fill the basket with small tools and gadgets he is always mentioning he needs but never buys. Don't forget to add some treats to round out the basket ? after all, you will want to satisfy that sweet tooth. Consider a sports-oriented theme for this birthday gift basket. There are great options out there for sports enthusiasts in every category. If you are thinking about something with a little more style, a bottle of cognac, his favorite cigars, and gourmet treats may appeal to him ? packaged in a brown derby!
Kids
The sky is the limit when selecting a birthday gift basket for a kid of any age. Stick to items that are age-specific from babies through teens. Consider items that you know the child likes. You can stick with a specific theme or create a hodge-podge of items that you know will bring hours of enjoyment to a child. Ideas for an assortment of items are a small stuffed animal, books based on age and interest, healthy snacks, travel-size games, small puzzles, and flavored beverages for kids. Consider containers they can reuse.
If you just do not know what items to select, consider a gourmet food basket that usually satisfies everyone's pallet ? even the most hard to please! There is no limit on what you can include in a birthday gift basket, but always consider the recipient when making a gift basket purchase and ask yourself whether or not he or she will like the birthday gift basket you select!
About The Author
Wendy Wood is the owner of Seek Gift Baskets, an online gift basket directory listing professional gift basket designers from around the world. http://www.seekgiftbaskets.com

Tools and Tips for Keeping the Holidays Organized

2007-01-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

Tools and Tips for Keeping the Holidays Organized
It's November 1st. You've walked into your favorite store to buy half-priced Halloween candy and what do you see? Christmas decorations! "Oh, no!" you think to yourself. "That can only mean one thing..."
The HOLIDAYS are coming!
Don't stress-you're going to start early and be more organized this year...Here are some tools and tips for staying on top of the busy and sometimes stressful holiday season.
TOOL #1: Lists
Why keep lists? Whether they are written on paper or typed onto your computer, a list allows you to do a sort of 'brain dump' of everything you need to recall at a moment's notice. There are so many different things to remember when it comes to holiday time: Your husband's shirt size, the spices you need for this year's stuffing, what store has gift wrap on sale, etc. Unless you have an incredible memory, keeping lists will help get you through some of the stress of the holiday season.
Some examples of list topics you may need during the holidays are:
food shopping list
lists of dishes to prepare when entertaining
gift list
invitation lists
TOOL #2: Calendar
This may be the most important organizing tool you use this season. Why use a calendar? A calendar is a tool that helps you plan what you need to accomplish in a day, a week, or a month. And boy, is there a lot to accomplish during the holidays! As opposed to just making to-do lists, sometimes seeing time in visual blocks on paper (or electronically) helps one to manage their time more efficiently...
Examples of activities to be scheduled during the holidays are:
food shopping
gift shopping
cooking
wrapping gifts
trips to the post office
holiday parties (whether hosted by you or someone else)
Become a 'Master of Time Management.'
How will you know how much time to put aside for each task? Work backwards from the day or time that a task needs to be done by. Estimate how many hours/days it would take to complete the task. Schedule the time and and mark your calendar accordingly.
For example:
Task:
Cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving (to be ready by Thursday at 5pm)
Steps:
Purchase turkey at least one week before Thanksgiving (enter task in calendar for the week before Thanksgiving)
Defrost turkey 2-3 days before Thanksgiving depending upon size (calculate defrosting time and enter task in calendar to be started on Monday or Tuesday before Thanksgiving)
Cook turkey. This can take 3-6 hours depending upon size (calculate cooking time and write on your calendar for Thursday what time the bird needs to be in the oven by in order to finish cooking by 5pm)
A schedule is a guideline and should be flexible. Try to schedule tasks to be completed ahead of deadline. This allows for any problems or emergencies that may arise.
TOOL #3: Quality Storage Containers
Dishes
Are your holiday dishes in a box in the attic? A great product for protecting and storing your holiday (or any type of) dishes are China Keepers. They are padded/quilted, made of either cotton or vinyl and come in different shapes and sizes depending upon your storage needs.
*Lillian Vernon Online sells them in six different patterns including one set decorated for the Christmas season (www.lillianvernon.com).
Holiday Decorations
Some people decorate their homes only in the winter and some people choose to decorate for every holiday in the year. Whichever person you claim to be, it is important to keep your decorations from being ruined due to improper storage and care. A few options are:
large plastic bins with ornament dividers
ziploc bags for small items such as ornament hangers and anything small enough to get lost in a big box
small plastic bins for lights, candles, and the ziploc bags of smaller items
wreath boxes specially designed for wreath storage (found at www.organizes-it.com)
*Label everything so you can find it easily next year.
Leftover Food
Wrapping leftovers in tinfoil might be a quick way to get them from frying pan to fridge but you'll be spending a great deal of time figuring out what's inside of them. Use food containers such as those made by Rubbermaid or Tupperware or 'disposable' containers such as ones made by Glad and Ziploc. They're found in most supermarkets. They stack well and if you want to give out leftovers to your guests, they're not very expensive to replace.
Tips for staying organized throughout the holiday season:
Wrap gifts and write holiday cards as early in the season as possible. I don't know anyone (including postal employees) that want to be in the post office around the time of December 25th...
Shop early in the season, at off-peak hours or online if at all possible
When storing ornaments, group them by theme. This will make it easier to find exactly which ones you want.
After the holiday, sort through ornaments, wall/door hangings, linens, etc. and purge anything that you do not need, want, or is beyond repair.
Above all, remain calm. If you stay organized, the holidays will be less stressful and you will enjoy yourself even more. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
About The Author
Stacey Agin Murray, professional organizer and owner of Organized Artistry, LLC, transforms 'mess' into 'masterpiece' with patience, organizing know-how, and a sense of humor. For more articles and to get your FREE e-list of 'Top Ten Tips for Organized Living' visit http://www.organizedartistry.com; stacey@organizedartistry.com

Be Your Own Valentine

2007-01-10T22:15:00.000-08:00

Be Your Own Valentine
by Pat Brill
Copyright (c) 2007 Pat Brill

Do you remember sending valentines when you were a child? Can you recall the construction paper-covered shoebox, decorated with glitter and doilies, full of tiny valentines and heart candies? Or perhaps the first serious Valentine's Day gifts you received, or your first delivery of one dozen red roses?
Receiving a Valentine's Day gift is a magical experience. It makes people smile, sometimes even feel a bit giddy. After all, this holiday is not about obligatory gifts. When you receive a Valentine's Day gift, you know the giver cares about you.
Valentine's Day, while traditionally for sweethearts, is really just a day to show the ones you love how much you care. Friends and family routinely send Valentine's Day cards; even moms get valentines from their own children.
This Valentine's Day, why not take the time to appreciate someone who rarely gets your attention; someone who deserves a thoughtful gift and a few kind words? Someone like - you! Whether you are single or attached, Valentine's Day is the perfect day to send yourself a gift of thanks and appreciation. This year, why not be your own valentine?
In your list of things to do each day, where do you factor in? Most women focus on meeting the needs of others before taking care of themselves. Over time, depriving yourself of a much-needed break or indulgence can cause you to feel weary, even a little sad. Still, a special gift and some self-care can be just the pick-me-up you need.
Start thinking of Valentine's Day as a time to celebrate you. Prepare to treat yourself in the same way you prepare to send a gift to your partner or special friend. Be as thoughtful for yourself as you would be for the important people in your life. Carefully planned gifts always stand out among the last minute trinkets and candies. Take the time to consider what you would love to receive.
Perhaps you have resisted buying a special piece of jewelry, or a beautiful dress. Maybe you would love to have a day at the spa, but have put it off due to time constraints. Even if you are on a budget, there are small indulgences that would make a perfect gift to you. A box of French milled soaps, a new pair of shoes, or perhaps a magazine subscription.
Being your own Valentine also means taking the time to celebrate. Take a two-hour lunch break from work and treat yourself to a meal at a nice restaurant. Snuggle up to watch your favorite movie with yummy snacks. Have a long soak in a bubble bath with a glass of champagne. Spend the day meandering through the cute antique shops you always meant to check out, but never got around to finding the time to explore.
However you decide to care for yourself this Valentine's Day, remember in order to be your own valentine, you will need to send yourself a card. Write a thoughtful note to yourself, listing what you love about yourself, and why you know you are special. Put the card in the mail ahead of time, so that it arrives in before February 14th.
Make being your own valentine an annual tradition, a time when it's okay to take time off to take care of you. It's the perfect time of year to pay extra special attention to your own needs and desires, to have the kind of fun you like to have, and to notice your unique loveliness.
About the Author
Pat Brill is co-founder of http://www.SilkBow.com which supports Busy Moms with free gift ideas and helpful tips to meet the challenges of motherhood. She is also co-founder of http://www.WellnessArticles.net , a directory of articles covering many areas of wellness. You can reach Pat at pat@SilkBow.com.

Dundee Tourist Information

2007-01-09T19:33:00.000-08:00

Dundee Tourist Information
by Naz Daud

As you approach the Tay Road Bridge whether by car or by train through the Tay Rail Bridge you begin to understand why they call the river "Silvery Tay". The city is situated on the east coast of Scotland on the north bank of the firth of Tay.
Dundee is Scotland's fourth largest city and one of the most beautiful! Driving across the bridge you can clearly see the Law Hill. The city is built around this extinct volcano. You can drive right up to the top of the hill and from this vantage point you can see the whole of Dundee!
Dundee is Scotland's sunniest city (it faces south) with over 1400 hours of sunshine every year. Its title "City of Discovery" comes from the HM Frigate Unicorn, the oldest surviving ship in the UK.
Dundee is known for its "3 Js" - Jute, Jam & Journalism. Although the Jute & Jam industry is no longer predominant in Dundee, you can still see the towers associated with the industry. Verdant Works is ideal for tourists wishing to learn about Dundee's Jute Industry.
Keillers of Dundee pioneered the manufacture of marmalade here. They bought a shipload of oranges which they were unable to sell. Janet Keiller specialized in selling jam and using her knowledge invented marmalade.
Although Jute and Jam are no longer made in Dundee, the journalism sector still thrives. The company began as a branch of the Thomson family business. In 1884, David Couper Thomson took over the publishing business, and established it as DC Thomson in 1905. The firm flourished, and now produces more than 200 million comics, books and magazines every year.
Dundee is also a university town with a student population averaging about 32,000. Due to the high numbers of students, Dundee has a lively pub and club scene. The 2 most popular night clubs are Fat Sams & London Night Club.
A recent quality of life survey ranked Dundee near the top due to its clean air, low pollution levels, riverside location and high sunshine hours.
Shopping in Dundee has now taken off with 2 major shopping centres (Overgate & Wellgate) under pinning the west and east of the city centre. The number of out of town shopping centres in Dundee means that the city attracts shoppers from all the small towns nearby.
The town is a fantastic holiday location with Broughty Ferry having one of the cleanest beaches in the UK.
The city is an ideal starting point for touring the best of Scotland with almost all major attractions less then 100 miles away. Kenmore, Loch Earn, Loch Ness and Ben Nevis are beautiful destinations in their own right. The three other major cities, Edinburgh, Aberdeen & Glasgow are all approximately an hours drive.
St Andrews (the home of golf) & Carnoustie both have championship golf courses and are only 20 minutes drive from the city.
Dundee has three country parks all within 3 miles of the city. Camperdown Park, Monikie Park & Crombie Park are all beautiful and unique in their own ways.
Dundee is renowned for its Dundee Repertory Theatre (the rep) and Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre (DCA).
The main Hotels in Dundee are the Hilton Hotel, Apex City Quay, Swallow Hotel & Queens. There are many other smaller hotels and recently many travel lodges/inns have opened to provide room only rates for families on a small budget.
Glamis Castle - known to be haunted due to an ancient curse is a fairy tale castle which will exceed all your expectations.
The town of Glamis also houses the Angus Folk Museum. Visit one of Scotland's finest museums and learn about Scotland's history.
Dundee has 2 football teams: Dundee United & Dundee. Some people in Dundee believe that they should unite to form one team. Others have very strong views that the two team should remain separate.
St Andrews Beach has to be seen to be believed. The world famous golf course sits proudly on the beach front.
The British Golf Museum is in St Andrews, the home of golf! Find out about the history of the game and indulge in some interactive highly visual displays.
The best hotel in St Andrews is the MacDonald Russacks Hotel. It was voted one of the Top Golfing Hotels in the world.
St Andrews Castle consists of the ruins of the castle built around the 13th century. Here you can explore the secret dungeons and admire the views.
St Andrews Cathedral & St Rule's Tower are the remains of the largest cathedral in Scotland.
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Valentine?s Day - Online Worship

2007-01-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Valentine?s Day - Online Worship
Gazing the wide stretched blue carpet, with blows of zephyrs whispering and blowing leaves away, is the best way to rest your mind from the day-to-day hassle. It's the time when every living thing seems to grow and is nourished by the augmentation of spring. The basic demand of existence is to get inner contentment, which can be obtained by the internal & external stability of an entity. In my two optically active balls the stability desire for man & women fluctuate in many ways. Man & woman made for each other may have different attitudes for gaining inner contention but share parallel ideas for gaining eternal and sentimental contentment. This doesn't differentiate between any cast creed and race; all same one in for all. And the best way to articulate your feelings is to blast the mind-set on lovers' day so called "Valentine's Day".
Every February across the whole world candies, flowers, gifts and cards are exchanged between the lovers, which is in remembrance of St. Valentine. Obviously we are living in an Islamic republic and here the concept of Christianity should not last but he has done some thing exceptional that's why every religion is celebrating this day in his respect and spreading the message, which he narrated and preached in his time. There are many beliefs about this myth and this history is still cloaked in ambiguity. St. Valentine's Day contains remnants of both Christian and ancient Roman Tradition.
Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine, all of whom were martyred. According to one myth, Valentine's Day started in the time of the Roman Empire!
According to a myth, St. Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. Under the rule of Emperor Claudius II Rome was involved in many blood-spattered and ostracized campaigns. Claudius the brutal was having a difficult time getting armed forces to join his military leagues. He believed that the cause was that roman men did not want to leave their loves or families. As a result, Claudius cancelled all marriages and engagements in Rome. The good Saint Valentine was a priest at Rome in the days of Claudius II. He and Saint Marius aided the Christian martyrs and secretly married couples, and for this kind deed Saint Valentine was detained and dragged before the Prefect of Rome, who condemned him to be beaten to death with clubs and to have his head cut off. He suffered martyrdom on the 14th day of February, about the year 270.
According to another legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'Valentine' greeting him self. While he was in prison, Valentine fell in love with the jailer's daughter. Many young people came to the jail to visit him and they threw flowers and notes up to St. Valentine's window. They wanted him to know that they, too, believed in love.
One of those young people was the daughter of the prison guard. Her father allowed her to visit him in the cell. Sometimes they would sit and talk for hours. She helped him to keep his spirits up. She agreed that he did the right thing by ignoring the Emperor and going ahead with the secret marriages. On the day he was to die, he left a little note thanking her for her friendship and loyalty. He signed it, "Love from your Valentine." That note started the custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine's Day. It was written on the day St. Valentine died, February 14, 270 A.D. Now, every year on this day, people remember. But most importantly, they think about love and friendship. And when they think of Emperor Claudius, they remember how he tried to stand in the way of love, and they laugh -- because they know that love can't be beaten!
Since that it's been a custom in most of all societies to express their emotions and love to their beloveds. The greeting card association mentions an estimated figure of one billion about the Valentines cards, which are sent across the world. This is the second largest card-sending holiday of the year first being Christmas. Women purchase approximately 85% of all valentines' cards. Well this is a proven fact that women either black or white regardless of creed always are sensitive about the occasions of life. Whether it is their first love anniversary or breakup date, they would always think about the dates when they tied any virtual or real knot. Cupid, another symbol of holiday, as he is the son of Venus, Roman god of love.
A love seat is a wide chair, which was first made to seat one woman and her wide dress. Later the love seat or courting seat had two sections, often in an S-shape. In this way a couple could sit together.
The first Valentine message (apart from the one St Valentine wrote himself!) is thought to be a verse from Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife in 1415. He was captured at the Battle of Agincourt and was imprisoned in the Tower of London to await execution. But Valentine's Day didn't become popular in the UK until the 17th century. By the 18th century it was traditional for people to exchange handwritten messages of love. Printed cards soon replaced these, making it easier for people to say, "I love you" secretly. Charles d'Orl้ans' ballade, composed in French and English, hearkens back to Chaucer's Parliament of Fowles.
Written valentines began to appear after 1400. The oldest "valentine" in existence was made in the 1400's and is in the British Museum. Paper valentines were exchanged in Europe where they were given in place of valentine gifts. Paper valentines were especially popular in England. Early valentines were made by hand and were made with colored paper, watercolors, and colored inks.
This was all about the history of the great Valentines Day. Now lets enjoy! I mean talk about the stuff given on this eve and the celebrations across the world. On this day it's common for friends and lovers in all-social gatherings to exchange gifts flowers and hand written notes as a token of love and affection. Ready-made cards are also an easy way of expressing your emotions to your beloveds. The favorite symbols of valentine includes 'oh my love you like a red rose' which is said mostly to a women as rose is the symbol of peace, love and forgiveness. The eternal lovers are searching for their love all over and waiting for this day to come so that they can build all the courage they have to shower their love with flowers, chocolates, cards and gifts. You must have written a perfect love letter (now can be an email) may be once in a life time but I will here narrate one which is designed for those who are short of words and cant make their feelings explicable. This email has been a fruitful one and I hope same in future.
A perfect Email for your Valentine!
To My Valentine,I hope you are in high spirits and have seen the sun shinning brighter than ever. I feel great by being the first one to wish you through an email, a very Happy Valentine's Day. I would like to confess what I was feeling since ages but didn't get the valor to speak my heart out. After a long time I have realized that the love, which we share, is not an ordinary love. It's platonic with glamour of sensuality. Today is the day when our fate brought us together and carved the same line on cups of our palms. There was a lot about you, which peaked my attention and made my heart crave for the more of you. Every day since then has been a f๊te for me when your sight was over ruled by my imagination. I have many times vocalized that you have completed my world but today I will make a clean breast that you have completed me. I am now addicted to your love and all the time we have spent together, your love had showered my soul with the blessings of affection, drop by drop. My Love, when I say I love you; its not only those three words which are said by every lover but it's the voice coming from the bottom of my spirit which can only be heard by you. I am trying to convey that how much I admire you in one thousand and one ways. Thank you for being a part of me and touching my soul with the brisk of life. I want our relation to last forever, which can never be mortal, and these three words mean the zillions of words inside my heart praising your being. Our love is the backbone of our lives from now on. This Valentine's Day has brought me all the happiness, for your sight being visible and your heart being a part of me. Though we are different from each other, all that matters is that we love each other to remain one for the rest of our lives. I will continue to respect you and love you.
From Your Valentine!
Online Festivity of Valentine's Day:
What do you think about online love? Obviously love is always on the line but most powerful method of getting socially sound is, now days, through computers which is the holy modernization as is a catalyst in God's affairs. Email, Internet and Chat groups (communities) are three major examples of these catalysts. Online dating has been very common abroad and through this people can find their soul mates with the blink of eye. These are the forms which has given a rapid change to human to carve their own future and has made searching their mates easy. A number of sites have been designed specially to entangle singles that are in search and can meet, greet and feast on this special day. From friendship to marriages people are now reliable on spending their time on Internet rather than going out for a physical search. Virtual world has made every thing easy and available at doors. The attraction to "online rather cyber relations" are no more only for the teens or desperate men but its grabbing the attraction of sapiens on this planet. As in this era people are devoid of time and cant take time out to go physically and spend loads of time and after that all efforts going in vain as ending up in an early breakup. Many times lovers don't get time to talk about their likes and dislikes. Internet is the best way as while chatting or signing up in any community people there are from your interest and caters a wide range of ideas to be interchanged.
Not to overlook those who are still in hunt of their soul mate. Cupid will surely hit them with his arrow one day. So for those, start hunting for the partner in a party arranged for this special day. Arrange a singles' party where bid all your friends and their friends to choose amongst them. As it was done in early ages in Europe, don't through balloting but just enjoying the party along with friends and their acquaintances. If at home then think about your puppy love or crushes. Read a good love book, (my fave is Men from Mars and women from Venus) watch a romantic movie and make your favorite dish in dinner and dine with family if not going out. You can also present a gift to your parents on this occasion to tell them they mean a lot to you regardless of the fact that it is lover's day.
Online dating as mentioned earlier has been a very successful method of interaction. A famous website namely orkut is one of the hit amongst youth. It's not specifically an online dating but a community through which you can discover the old friends and search new ones. Posting of special events which are being arrange on this valentine is on the list. These events include bachelors' party, parties for couples and a lot more. Announcements of the events are also done on other sites but this is genuinely considered less fake! Red has been a color of love, passion and sentiments since ages. So you can see many of the websites loaded with the images of red balloons, flowers and hearts. Once there was a website which contained a special article on the Valentine's Day and had Cupid in its cursor. For once I thought I am now the goddess of love and can hit anyone with my arrow.
The best gift for the upcoming Valentine's Day is a romantic love announcement through Internet. It needs great courage for an introverted boy to say, 'I love you', face to face, then why not let me help you announce your undying devotion," Sun said. Sun Lin (Shanghai Star January 27, 2003) is one of the few professional short message writers in Shanghai and every week he has to frame his brain to create at least 30 love messages on the Internet. Sun admitted that he is not a love expert. In fact he felt embarrassed when, in 2000, his department leader informed him that the company planned to initiate an online business named, "Sending love through the Internet" and he has been chosen - a 20-year-old boy just graduated from college - to be responsible for creating all the content. "As an occupation targeting young people, the first thing you have to know is to find out what they are pursuing. The Internet is the fastest, easiest way to achieve that", He says.
Some of the couples that met through Internet and are now happily married were interviewed. Natasha and Umair both belong to entirely different subjects of life. Natasha studying in College of business and management (CBM) and other an engineer from NED. Natasha had a problem that she never wanted to engross her self in to the arrange marriage and couldn't get the man of her choice. Even having a pretty face, she was seen always complaining about guys as she was never satisfied or when contented was afraid of the refusal. At the age of 24 she met a guy of 26 on the Internet through a chat room and her life started blooming. They started off discussing about social issues, home issues, and environmental issues then in the last their personal issues. With the duration of one year they realized that things were going smooth and they thought of tying the knot. No one has got time to rummage around, you just go online and browse communities you are interested in and click the right person to get hold of. Petite and precise!
Another true story, which BBC News covered in November 2002, was about Graham Freeman and Deb who found their love online. The two had met on Internet dating service match.com, only four months before, but 36-year-old Graham had little doubt he was falling in love. He told BBC News Online: "I think you know in a few emails if you're on the same wavelength, and after a month or two, you're 99% sure." His belief is supported by research from Internet psychologists, which suggests that getting to know each other online before meeting is a recipe for long-term stability. People do their own selection process on the Internet, so when you meet for the first time, you have a good knowledge of their interests and what makes them tick. And you have a much more flowing conversation than if you just met them in a restaurant. In life you have to be a little street smart and the Internet is no different. It's not difficult to have a conversation with someone and ask questions to see if they're real. You have to be a bit watchful, as there are few bad apples everywhere.
Have you ever thought about the fact that why many of us are under the obsessive-compulsive syndrome to which we call LOVE! Being in love with your partner because of his/her one characteristic is mostly seen but have you ever loved some one without a reason? It's hard but to love partners' some thing might have fascinated you.
One of the best ways to communicate and be open about your feelings on this day is through words. Though actions speak louder than words, if the acts can't be done then words can do wonders. A special, sentimental love poem by you or some one else, some platonic verses or quotes can surely convey your thoughts. Now there are number of websites on which thousands of poems on Valentine are narrated. You, with the click of your mouse, can get the most potent tool to electrify your beloved. Writing the perfect poem might be difficult for some people so we have valentine poem for the readers as well.
See My Love SeeThe Broken Arrow In The Sky,Shining Bright & Gaily SilveredWaiting For A Wish To Be Taken Away.Wishing For The Aching Love To Be Blessed WithMomentarily Dazzling Glitter,For Once The Heavenly Bodies WitnessedThe Sorrows In The TearAnd Bravery In The Fear.The Gamut Of Emotions From The Mundane Joys To The Eternal Despair,Time We 've Spent MoreBut Memories Force To Care.With Respect I Select You To Rule My Soul,To Fill The Empty Vessel Of LifeGiving Any Shape You cast.I Don't Want To Come On SceneFor The Mystifying Searching Eyes,'Tis No Big Deal To Look Around And Kiss The Name With Gee.With You In My Vision I See The Farthest Point With Your Warmth My Chilling BodyIs Able To Shelter The Ice.Every Single Drop Of Blood On This MilestoneThee I Sacrifice In Your Way,Today I 'M Revealing My Ultimate Love For You,Valentine Of The Day.
Let the f๊te begin!
There are thousand ways of celebrating the Valentine's Day with your beloveds but few are worth mentioning. It's been a survey how people want to and rejoice the Valentine's Day. May be these ideas are worth reading for you as you can implement one!
1. The most common idea of celebrating Valentine's Day is going out for a dinner; obviously candle helps making the mood up for a romance. Then exchange gifts with a nice hug. Turn on the music and relax.
2. Relaxing on the beach and hanging out for the whole day is also not a bad idea. If you are not a party animal then this might be your kind of celebration. With the cool breeze and welcoming waves, you can enjoy the lunch, music and gifts all in one. Say it this is the time!
3. Making each other know about your feelings, to exchange gifts, renewing vows and planning of celebrating at the fave place is also voted by many. Especially by young college students.
4. Flowers, chocolates, gifts and cards always add body to this feast.
5. Some people also like to go out for movies to celebrate this occasion not to forget the stargaze!
These were few of the ways of celebrating Valentine's Day. Now comes the important part i.e. if you are to propose. You need to assemble valor for the most popping thing. Through the actions you may conquer one's heart but to propose some one for marriage is the biggest chore. People even with lion's heart tremble at the time of proposing. So have you made your plans for the upcoming Valentine's Day? If not then go and browse through the virtual world, you may come across thousands of other ways about the festivity of this event and may be you'll find your Valentine!!!! Let's Celebrate this day with bliss and zest in spite of the fact that it's Christian's or ancient Roman's tradition.
Regardless of the custom, we should get elation out of every f๊te as this existence is undersized and we should bestow our lives to benefit from little things. There is hardly a question who gets their lovers on this day, the thing, which matters how many, can survive through thick and thin & how they carry their relationship. Think about the way you want to celebrate the cherish moment of your love hunt, the successful life with different priorities & do speak your heart out to cultivate the stability for your own contention.
Rumaisa Aslam

Tips For Singles on Surviving (And Enjoying) The Holidays

2007-01-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

Tips For Singles on Surviving (And Enjoying) The Holidays
Here you are, facing the holiday season alone. Have you been thinking about?
*how alone and lonely you feel
*excuses you can give family members as to why you can't come this year
*what friends may be available to spend those long days with
*how another year has passed and you are (still) single
*how unfair it is that everyone else seems so happy and connected
*how you will handle the office holiday party- single, take a friend, not attend
*going to a far away (tropical?) place to escape it all
*hiding out, alone, in your own home
If these thoughts sound familiar it is probably time to reflect on your feelings regarding this holiday season. If your goal is to hide out and endure it alone, you won't need to do too much planning. However, if you wish to experience at least a measure of the "peace and joy" associated with this time of year, you need to make and follow through with plans that allow you to participate in ways that are meaningful to YOU.
Remember, your senses are bombarded from October to December with music, images and Hallmark verses depicting the "right" experiences and expressions for the season. Remind yourself, every day if necessary, that there's nothing wrong with being single. You have the same need and right to enjoy this season as any couple or family does. How you choose to do this is up to you.
After you have done some serious reflection, consider the following list of holiday tips designed especially for singles.
Don't make plans out of a sense of obligation. This is also your holiday season. Set limits, make good choices and enjoy. You may ask yourself; "do I really want to go out"? If so, make your next question something like; "does it sound like something I would enjoy or be interested in?" Or, "will I have the opportunity to meet and mix with other singles?"
Avoid unrealistic expectations from others, from yourself and from the holidays themselves. Relax, enjoy and don't expect so much that you will feel hurt or disappointed when things don't turn out just as you had imagined. This will defeat all the positive feelings and experiences that you may have already gained.
Make sure you give thanks for all the blessings you do have in your life. Focusing on what you don't have only encourages negative thoughts. Add a prayer of hope for the things you would like to work for in the coming year.
Don't overbook OR overstay a good amount of time with relatives/friends. Sometimes a shorter stay works best and leaves you energy and space to get back to your own home and decompress.
Look for ways to give to or do for others. Feeling useful and appreciated will provide a great boost to your holiday spirits. Check into volunteer opportunities at local shelters and nursing homes or through any local church or non-profit group.
Don't plan to spend the entire holiday season with married /coupled family and friends. Seek out other singles and singles groups/ activities where you can feel relaxed and able to share with folks you have more in common with at this time. Better yet, plan a get together with other singles for one of the holidays. A festive potluck meal, tree trimming party or other holiday event would probably be much appreciated.
Do avoid using food, alcohol or drugs to cope with holiday stress. Nothing is worse than the feelings that follow the use (or wrong use) of these things. This way of coping leads to depression, low self-esteem and a greater sense of isolation and despair.
Do decorate your home with any and all things that make it feel more festive and fun for YOU. Tune into all those wonderful traditions you grew up with. It does not have to be very costly or time consuming to begin your own traditions in your own place. Don't put off or deny yourself those happy holiday expressions, as you wait for your significant other. Make your life all it can be right now.
Consider emphasizing the more spiritual aspects of the holiday. Go to a concert featuring religious holiday music or attend a church (or other) service, (even better with a friend).
Finally, going away to an exotic place may be just what you do need. Look into tour or vacation packages for singles. This may provide plenty of rest and relaxation and help you meet new friends and develop new interests.
Whatever you decide to do for your holidays, have fun and enjoy them. Focus on taking care of yourself and doing what is right for you. This way you will also be giving your best to those around you. Happy Holidays!
Toni Coleman is a licensed therapist and relationship coach in private practice in McLean, Virginia. She specializes in working with singles that want to create lasting, intimate relationships. Toni has over 20 years of post-masters experience in relationship counseling and coaching with singles and couples. She is the founder and President of LifeChange Coaching and Consum-mate Relationship Coaching. She developed and teaches the Creating Lasting Relationships Training, a tele-workshop designed to help singles to define, implement and fulfill their life and relationship goals. She has also written numerous email classes for singles on all aspects of meeting, dating and relating. She is the author of the email newsletter, The Art of Intimacy, which goes out to thousands of subscribers monthly. http://www.consum-mate.com

Nerja on the Costa del Sol, Spain

2007-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Nerja on the Costa del Sol, Spain
by Steve Greenwood

Nerja has become one of the most popular holiday resorts on the Costa del Sol to be found east of Malaga. Unlike many of the popular destinations to the west of Malaga heading down towards Gibraltar, such as Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Marbella, Nerja has escaped mass tourism and still retains much of its original charm and character as a former fishing village.
Nerja is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara mountain range, which shelters it from the worst of winter weather whilst providing a breathtaking backdrop to the town's traditional whitewashed stone townhouses and villas. It is surely one of the most beautiful destinations along the eastern Costa del Sol. With just a 45-minute drive to Malaga's international airport, cheap flights available from many European destinations and a regular coastal bus service, Nerja can be an ideal cheap holiday destination.
The Balcon de Europa is the focal point of the old town and offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea and nearby beaches. It was originally known as 'La Bateria' due to the gun battery that stood here in a fortified tower, but was destroyed in 1810 by a Bristish led force during the Pennisular War to prevent occupation by French forces. Nowadays the Balcon is full of activity with street artists and entertainers, horse-drawn carriages and ice-cream vendors selling a huge variety of flavours and colours. Lined with many bars and restaurants, it offers an ideal location to relax and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean coastline.
In the old quarter of Nerja town itself, many buildings still retain their original Andalucia architectural style, and the narrow winding streets bustle with the authentic atmosphere of a working Spanish town. Yet Nerja has all the advantages of a modern town, with endless shops selling ceramics, textiles, leather goods, souvenirs and essential beach accessories for the family.
Much of Nerja's nightlife begins late into the evening and you are sure to find a bar to your particular taste, either in the lively Tutti Frutti Square, or the many tranquil bars to be found around the Balcon de Europa. Bars and clubs in Tutti Frutti Square stay open well into the morning hours during the long, hot summer nights, and are particularly popular with younger holiday visitors. However, bars near the Balcon are more conducive to the relaxed atmosphere of Andalucia life.
If you are happy to spend your holiday relaxing in Nerja, you can be assured there are many beautiful sandy beaches hidden within small coves, lined with bars and restaurants in abundance. Burriana beach is one of the largest and most popular with tourists and Spanish alike, whilst to the side of the Balcon itself, hidden within a small cove, can be found one of Nerja's most charming beaches with golden sand and clear blue water.
Less than 3km away are the famous Nerja Caves first discovered in 1959, now one of the most popular holiday attractions in Spain. The caves have impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, and a natural cavern that has been turned into an impressive concert hall, the location of many theatre productions and classical concerts. One of Nerja's most celebrated fiestas is San Isidro on the 15th May. A large procession of decorated carts leave the centre of the town heading towards the caves for a weekend of festivity and celebration, in true Andalucia style. The caves can also be reached by local bus with a regular service leaving from the main bus terminal on Avenida Pescia.
The town itself offers many holiday attractions for the visitor, but if you feel the need to explore some of the attractions Andalucia has to offer, then it is an ideal starting point for trips and excursions. Within a ten minute drive can be reached the beautiful whitewashed-stone villages of Frigiliana and Torrox, both shining white as snow in the sun. For real snow however, the Sierra Mountains offer fantastic, affordable skiing during the winter months and all within a two-hour drive. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains is the Moorish city of Granada, dominated by the mysterious Alhambra Palace. A series of palaces and gardens built over several centuries under the Nazrid Dynasty in the 14th Century.
Nerja has become very popular for people retiring or simply looking for a change of life, with a fifth of the estimated population of 20,000 being foreign residents, including more than 2,000 British. During the summer months this figure increases many more times with the arrival of holiday visitors in abundance attracted by one of the best climates in Europe. With Costa del Sol beaches, golf courses, skiing, adventure parks, water parks and the Almijara mountain range all within easy reach; Nerja has something to offer everyone.
Steve Greenwood has lived on the Costa del Sol for 3 years and works in Nerja. You are invited to visit Ideal Rentals For You in Nerja for Nerja holiday villas, places to visit and things to do in Spain. Ideal Rentals (www.idealrentals4u.com) offers holiday information on all the regions of Spain including the Balearic and Canary Islands.
About the Author
Steve Greenwood has lived on the Costa del Sol for 3 years and works in Nerja. You are invited to visit Ideal Rentals For You in Nerja for Nerja holiday villas, places to visit and things to do in Spain. Ideal Rentals (www.idealrentals4u.com) offers holiday information on all the regions of Spain including the Balearic and Canary Islands.

Meet the Parents

2006-12-31T19:27:00.000-08:00

Meet the Parents
by Daryl Campbell

If you have not met her parents yet, the chances are you will this holiday season. It is a big step. Women value their family relationships and wanting you to meet her parents may be more about getting their opinions on you as it is about making a serious commitment.
Do your homework. Ask your girlfriend plenty of questions about her parents before the initial meeting. This way you can avoid anything that might be a touchy subject and also brush up on topics that are of interest to them. An extra bonus to doing this is that your girlfriend will be flattered you are showing an interest in her parents before you even meet them. Just a few tidbits of personal information before the initial get together can go a long way.
Dress appropriately. A sloppy appearance may be damaging to your potential relationship with her parents. They may be insulted even before you open your mouth. Failing to take care in your appearance is a sign of disrespect to many people so exercise caution and dress nicely. First impressions count.
Bring an appropriate gift. A little bribery never hurt but do not go overboard otherwise they may think you are trying to rent their affection. Ask your girlfriend what they like or go with the old standby and bring flowers. It is always welcome and very appropriate. A small gift can help you get the relationship off on the right foot.
Avoid controversial subjects. In general you should steer clear of any talk concerning religion, politics and sex .The last thing that you want to do is to spend your first meeting debating hot button issues. Yes, this may be an activity you normally enjoy, but getting involved in a heated debate with your girlfriend's parents is definitely not a good idea. Keep the conversation light. . Try not to be too affectionate. While she may be a grown woman, she is also their daughter. Many parents would not be comfortable with overt displays of affection. Too much can send the wrong message and put them on guard against you. If your girlfriend senses tension between you and her parents it could severely damage the relationship.
It is likely that your girlfriend will be influenced by her parent's opinions so it would not be too hard for them to send her subtle signals that they do not think you are right for her. Create a good first impression and do not give them any reason not to like you. Establishing a good relationship with the parents can only benefit you and your girlfriend.
About the Author
Ready for the dating game this holiday season? Daryl Campbell invites you to check out http://datinggame.winthemarket.com More free tips, resources and up to the news and minute information to help you with the dating game this season and beyond

Quick and Easy Holiday Decorating

2006-12-28T23:07:00.000-08:00

Quick and Easy Holiday Decorating
You're tired. You've worked hard all week. Suddenly, the kids shout gleefully... "let's decorate!" ... in anticipation of the coming holiday. The "let's not" is miraculously not permitted to escape your lips. Instead you take a deep breath while you wonder about how this decorating could become an easier and more fun-filled activity.
Well, it can be!
- First, insist on family members pitching in to help and treat this like a family project. This should not just rest on your shoulders to accomplish and it will be much more fun if you all are making changes and creating memories together.
- Next, pick a day and time you'll all devote no more than one to two hours for a quick holiday makeover at your home (for a major decorating holiday schedule two or three longer blocks of time). It helps if you can set the decorating date about one to two weeks from now, if time still allows for that. This gives you time to gather items together for the project.
- Ask the kids to create one or two new arts and crafts decorations that are suitable to the holiday to have ready for the decorating day. Or, ask them to select ones from among any they may already have on hand, for instance, from school projects.
- Decide on 3 to 4 areas you will focus on decorating this year. Here are some choices: the front door, the front yard, the entry hallway, the kitchen table, the dining room table, the living room, the patio, the bathroom, the bedroom. There are other areas you could consider as well. But if you want quick and dirty, then focus in on only 3 to 4 of the areas for decorating this year. Anyway, you can select other areas next year for a change.
- Keep holiday decorations in separate bags, boxes or baskets in the same closet or in the attic so they'll be easy for everyone to retrieve when they are needed next.
- Buy items you really love when you see them advertised or they may not be available when you later. It's common for seasonal merchandise to change from year to year and also they are not stocked year-round typically. So, your item may no longer be available if you wait too long to decide you want it. Then stash your figurines, statues, wall hangings, and other holiday decorations in your bags or boxes, sorted by holiday.
- Make or buy some snacks or treats to enjoy together at the completion of your decorating time.
Here are some favorite quick and easy decorating areas and tips:
1. The front door- Have a welcome sign that is theme oriented and you can easily change by season or by holiday. You can either hang up a completely new themed sign, or there are some that come with interchangeable pieces you swap in and out representing different holidays or themes.
2. The dining room table or a table that is centrally located but not used that often- Change the table runner or the tablecloth to a holiday themed one. Then showcase your holiday decorations by arranging a combination of your kid's holiday creations and your own figurines or other holiday decor on the table.
3. The mantel or entertainment center- Add a string of lights and if you wish, you can also vary the string of lights by color best suited for the coming holiday theme. Wall hangings can be changed around this area temporarily as well. Holiday accessories, flags, figurines, etc. are easy to rotate in and to view on or around this area of your home.
4. Special areas by kid's choice- Smaller children can help by adding little decorations to windows and glass doors. They enjoy taping up their creations or they can easily put up static cling decorations. Other areas small children enjoy decorating include outdoors, the dog house and their own rooms. Allow them to handle this aspect of decorating while you take pleasure in their big smiles and hugs!
Finally, make your decorating time even more enjoyable by having holiday background music or other favorite tunes playing in the background. Then, when you're done decorating, finish up with a big family hug and munching on tasty snack treats together!
Author Resource Box:
Liz Hekimian-Williams is founder of Giftsprings.com, a gifts and home decor online shop that features personalized gifts, custom engraved stones, holiday decor and special occasion gifts. Visit the gift shop at http://www.giftsprings.com
ฉ 2003, 2004 Elizabeth Hekimian-Williams, Giftsprings
This article can be freely reprinted as long as the copyright notice and author resource byline with active link are included with the article.

Holiday Scrapbooking Ideas - Making Memories for Years to Come

2006-12-27T23:20:00.000-08:00

Holiday Scrapbooking Ideas - Making Memories for Years to Come
by Michele Cardello

There are many important characteristics of a good holiday scrapbook, and it is all a matter of personal preference. Since the idea is to compile your own memories into your own personal album, it is important that you choose them carefully.
Photos One of the key ingredients of a holiday scrapbook is your photos. The images you portray are much of what actually make up a good part of your holiday memories, and often depict a true representation of your family and friendships. Since there are probably several from which to choose, you might consider coming up with a central theme for your holiday scrapbook and base everything you decide to include on that idea. For example, if your scrapbook is a Christmas album, you would want to use pictures that are representative of that holiday.
Use a wide variety of photos within your central theme. If you have children, include pictures of them taking part in various holiday activities. Also include photos of other friends and family members, and then tie it all together by using group photos that show the involvement of your entire clan. You can use pictures of your child sitting on Santa's lap, photos of people opening presents, and images of everyone around the Christmas tree.
Use images that are unique and will easily show others your dynamic personality. Decide on striking images in attractive settings that will make the viewer stop to look at and admire them. Choose carefully, and have fun creating your holiday scrapbook.
Sliding Cards Microcut sliding cards can help take your holiday scrapbook to another level. They make it easy for you to include the photos you want on an attractive card that you can embellish as desired. Simply scan your photos into your computer, then use the included software to put two separate images together for one card. Then, print and assemble the cards to create a page that viewers won't miss. You can get more information about sliding cards from the Internet, where you can also purchase the software and necessary supplies. Also check your local scrapbooking supply stores for this product. Sliding cards are fun and easy to assemble, are very unique, and add fun and originality to your holiday scrapbooking project.
Paper Patterns The type of scrapbooking paper and particular paper pattern you use are also very important elements when personalizing your holiday scrapbook. Because this project is all about you, your family, and those around you who help make your life special, it is a good idea to choose patterns that depict just that. For example, if you are putting together that Christmas scrapbook, you will easily be able to find patterns of Christmas scenes, Christmas trees, snowmen, and so on. If these are patterns that will give others an idea of your holiday memories, then they are the ones you should choose. You can, however, go for something a little more personal by piecing together paper patterns that will reflect an array of events and activities. If you have a large family, you will want to show that, so choosing patterns that include Santa or ginger bread houses, along with the others mentioned above, can add personality to your pages.
Paper patterns can also be an effective way to add subtle beauty to your pages by serving as a backdrop to your photos. Since the photos are often what you want to stand out, choose something that compliments them. You can also choose different patterns for different types of images, and mix and match as you desire.
You can find various patterns in your local supply stores, or shop on the Internet to find, view, and purchase paper patterns. There are also numerous web sites with pictures of holiday scrapbook pages that others have used, along with other paper pattern tips and ideas. The key is to simply make it your own.
Journaling Journaling is another important part of your holiday scrapbook. While not everyone chooses to do this, it is a good way to keep track of the memories that go along with the photos. By writing down the date and time the photo was taken, the names of everyone in it, and other information such as the location, event, and various activities that took place at that particular time, you will be able to easily recall the day as if it had just occurred. This is especially important if the holiday scrapbook is passed down from one generation to another, because often times later generations either weren't old enough to remember the actual event as it took place, or weren't even present at that time. Journaling is also a good way to add character and personality to the images, and helps them tell a story.
Urge others whose images are included in the holiday scrapbook to write down their memories and ideas. What better way to add variety to your memory book than to include special memories and sayings from those you love. Not only will you have their pictures to remind you how wonderful the holidays were, but you'll also have their words. This will definitely help make your holiday scrapbook unique and eye-catching.
Mementos Add mementos to your holiday scrapbook. If you have received greeting cards that hold special meaning for you, paste them on pages designated just for this purpose. If there is a specific Christmas or holiday poem that you find poignant, include it as well. You can also add other mementos such as holiday pictures your child has drawn or colored, special holiday stickers, or cards with holiday sayings that go along with your images and theme.
Family Project Make your holiday scrapbook a family project. Encourage everyone in your family to gather items and photos that are of special importance to each person, then designate pages for those items. Give each family member a page if possible, and if your family is too big for one book, consider putting together a second. Combine items where there aren't enough to fill up one whole page, but be sure to keep it all in order. Holiday scrapbooking can then be enjoyed by the entire family from beginning to end, and each member will have played a special role in putting it together.
Though holiday scrapbooking can become a big project, it can be a fun one as well. Encourage those around you to take part, and to continue the tradition. If your children help you put it together, they are more likely to teach their children, and your family scrapbooks can then be enjoyed from one generation to the next. A holiday scrapbook should tell a story, after all, the holidays are about family, togetherness, and the memories gained through these special times and experiences.
About the Author
Michele Cardello, director of marketing and creative for Life Imprints, has been making lasting holiday scrapbooks and other scrapbooking supplies a part of special memories. Cardello has worked in the photo packaging industry for 10 years and helps customers find creative ways to preserve and appreciate a lifetime of memories.

How To Negotiate With Your Family During The Holidays

2006-12-25T21:40:00.000-08:00

How To Negotiate With Your Family During The Holidays
by Mary Greenwood

Ever notice that when you get together with your family for the holidays that the same arguments and resentments bubble up through the good cheer year after year. Despite your best efforts not to let your siblings' comments bother you, you end up playing the same role in your family that you had in junior high. Here are some tips for getting along with your family this holiday season and being a grownup.
1.Concentrate on having a great holiday and don't get distracted by your emotions.
During this stressful holiday season, it is important to check your emotions at the door. Emotions such as anger or resentments lead to lack of control. You need to get past this stage if you are going to have a happy holiday. If you are the one who is angry or upset, you need to concentrate on what you what to accomplish (such as no scenes or confrontations) and not let anything stand in your way. It does not matter if you don't like a member of your family. Even if someone is rude, insulting or even baiting you, don't give him or her the satisfaction that he or she has gotten to you.
2. Look Forward Not Back. The Past Is Called The Past For A Reason.
Don't try to settle old scores during the holidays. Remember your goal is to get through the holidays without any flare-ups. Even if one of your siblings did something to you in the past that still makes you mad, get beyond that and try to live in the moment and be happy. No matter how sophisticated and worldly we have become, somehow those same roles we had in high school show through and the same old pecking order manifests itself. In this situation, déjà vu is not a good thing.
3. Be Willing To apologize.
If you are estranged from a relative, maybe this is the year you will make the first move to reconcile. Be prepared to shoulder some of the blame even if you don't remember what the original argument was. Don't say, "I did not do anything wrong." or "It is against my principles to apologize!" That is beside the point. When considering whether to make the first move, keep in mind that people do make mistakes. Also consider that your first move may be rejected and don't be upset by that. At least you know that you made the effort and tried to take the high ground. A sincere apology, and I mean sincere, can go a long way.
4. Beware And Be Aware.
Be aware and don't let your guard down. Even if you think the holidays are going smoothly, don't be lulled into complacency. Be careful what you say and how you say it. One well-placed comment or zinger by you or someone else can spoil the whole holiday mood. Be alert to others' feelings. It is only a couple of days and you can get through it.
5.Be Thankful.
Be thankful for being able to share the holidays with your family. Remember that some of them may not be around next year or the year after and those very maddening habits you dislike now, you might even miss when they are gone. Try to remember all the good things and accentuate the positive. As my mother says, "If you can't say something nice, don't say something at all." Try saying something nice and see where it takes you. Happy Holidays.
About the Author
Mary Greenwood, J.D., LL.M, Arbitrator, Mediator, Author of How to Negotiate like a Pro, 41 Rules for Resolving Disputes Available at http://www.barnesandnoble.com or http://www.amazon.com or Visit http://www.Marygreenwood.com DIY Award Best "How To" Book 2006

Christmas decorations and ornaments - the special fragrance of holidays

2006-12-24T05:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas decorations and ornaments - the special fragrance of holidays!
by Clint Jhonson

The first Christmas decorations were the mistletoe and the holly. People all around the world, enlightened by the holiday spirit, felt the need to express their joy and decorate their homes for this special holiday. In the early days, food was also used for Christmas decorations. Today, Christmas trees are usually the focal point when it comes to decorating. They enrich ones home along with wreaths, garlands and additional beauty.
The mistletoe has a special meaning; it has a special kissing tradition coming from the Worse myths. It is said that Frigga, one of the gods, gave her son Balder a charm of mistletoe to protect him from the elements. The mistletoe was believed to have special healing powers in the Celtic culture and the British tradition traces back in the history the sacredness of the mistletoe.
Holly, with its dark green spiky leaves and red berries, was also believed to have magical powers and the ability to drive demons away. Germans considered holly to be a good luck charm against the hostile forces of nature.
Some of the most wonderful Christmas ornaments included cookies, candies and sugared fruits. Today, the tradition continues and a lot of kids enjoy making gingerbread houses, which can be used as centerpieces for Christmas displays and are eaten later.
A lot of people prefer using Christmas decorations as in the early days. They string cranberries or popcorn, the paint the edges of pine cones white to suggest snow and they add wonderful ribbons in white, green, red, blue,gold and silver. Modern Christmas ornaments include decorative baskets or containers with fragranced potpourri for an interesting display.
During the holiday season the magic of Christmas comes alive. At the mere mention of holly, ivy or mistletoe, visions of Christmas with all its wonderful memories wanders into our minds and we feel warm and peaceful. We are enraptured in visions of Christmas ornaments on trees, snow falling slowly, carolers singing and outdoor lights. The winter is cold and distant but the evergreens, the holly and the mistletoe are its small wonders. These winter delights are used as Christmas decorations in order to brighten up the chilly days of the winter.
The tradition of hanging a wreath on the front door is a welcome gesture of friendship. The wreath, the door garlands and swags are delightful Christmas ornaments that extend the evergreen theme of winter to other parts of the home. Using ones imagination and creativity, they can be wonderfully personalized and have an unique look and charm. You can use cones, berries and ribbons in order to increase the effect and have beautiful Christmas decorations. The branches of trees can also be used to decorate mantelpieces or form the basis of a table center arrangements.
Homemade Christmas ornaments include trimming of beads, knots of bright ribbons, paper stars and lace bags filled with candies. Nuts, seeds, berries and other homemade materials are used even today for Christmas decorations and they increase the beauty of the holiday. The tree dйcor is open to creative and inspirational holiday decorating ideas. Silver foil icicles, chains of tiny beads and crinkly of wire tinsel added sparkle to the Christmas trees in the past.
Decorating for the holidays can be a pleasure in itself and there are a lot of wonderful Christmas ornaments to choose from. The Christmas tree's pine smell delights ones sense and decorating has become a true art form. The original tradition of outdoor lights is a cheerful delight throughout the holiday season. The cold winter days of December are warmed up by the amazing light displays that bring the holiday spirit to everyone.
About the Author
It's the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy the holiday season with our beautiful Christmas decorations and Christmas ornaments. Browse our collection and choose a gift for a special someone. Remember, Christmas is all about caring and giving!

Holiday Home Rental in the 21st Century

2006-12-23T01:43:00.000-08:00

Holiday Home Rental in the 21st Century
by Erik Simonsen

Holiday Home Rental in Denmark - Online. Today, rental of the thousands of holiday homes in the Danish holiday resorts mainly takes place on the Internet. The reason for this is quite obvious as the Internet provides unique ways to make information available and searchable and this makes it the ideal channel for holiday home rental.
Holiday Home Rental at Your Convenience. Before the days of the Internet, it was often a lengthy and tedious process to find and book a suitable holiday home for one's vacation. First, one would have to order one or more catalogues from a letting agent, and then wait patiently for the catalogue to arrive. Today, however, it is simply a matter of switching on the pc and start the search for the right holiday home for the upcoming vacation.
Holiday Home Rental Made Simple. Earlier on, one would have to go through hundreds of pages in one or more holiday home catalogues in order to find a holiday home that would meet one's wishes and requirements. But today, it is simply a matter of indicating one's preferences as search criteria and then conduct an online search for holiday homes that match the entered information. In a matter of seconds, a list of available houses will then pop up on the screen. From this list additional information about each holiday home including a description of the house and its facilities can be accessed. One can even find aerial photos of the holiday home by zooming in on the map. In this way it is possible to see whether the holiday home is located in an open space or whether it is hidden behind trees and bushes. In other words, a wealth of information can be found which could not possible be crammed into a paper version of a holiday home catalogue.
Holiday Home Rental with Online Booking. Once the perfect holiday home for the vacation has been found, all that is left to do is to click on the "order" button and fill in a simple booking form. Once the user confirms his or her booking, a preliminary confirmation of the booking will be e-mailed to the user. In a matter of days a rental contract will arrive in the mail and everything is set for a perfect holiday in a holiday home. In other words, it has never been easier to rent a Danish holiday home.
About the Author
Erik Simonsen is with Feline Holiday Denmark - the web's premier resource for Danish Holiday Homes, Danish Holiday Centres, and Danish Hotels.

Christians cause confusion over Christmas!

2006-12-21T16:57:00.000-08:00

Christians cause confusion over Christmas! by David Ben-Ariel
After reading The ACLU Zealots' Christmas Mission by Bonnie Alba, I wrote her:
Christians who read and believe the Bible wage war against "Christmas" to let the truth set folks free who choose to be.
The confusion in this country, first and foremost, is the fault of Protestants keeping a Roman Catholic hollow day, the "mass of Christ," having failed to completely come out of BABYLON.
The confusion is the Roman Catholic Cult dressing up a pagan holiday (they stole) in Christian drag. Throw in atheists and it's all a mess that the God of the Bible and the real Jesus don't want their holy Family name associated with.
C. H. Spurgeon on ChristmasSpurgeon from a sermon preached by C. H. Spurgeon on Dec. 24, 1871:We have no superstitious regard for times and seasons. Certainly we do not believe in the present ecclesiastical arrangement called Christmas. First, because we do not believe in the mass at all, but abhor it, whether it be sung in Latin or in English. Secondly, because we find no Scriptural warrant whatever for observing any day as the birthday of the Savior; and consequently, its observance is a superstition, because not of divine authority. 'Superstition' has fixed most positively the day of our Savior's birth, although there is no possibility of discovering when it occurred. ... It was not till the middle of the third century that any part of the Church celebrated the nativity of our Lord; and it was not till very long after the Western Church had set the example, that the Eastern adopted it. ... Probably the fact is that the "holy" days were arranged to fit in with the heathen festivals. We venture to assert, that if there be any day in the year, of which we may be pretty sure that it was not the day on which the Savior was born, it is the 25th of December. ... Regarding not the day, let us, nevertheless, give God thanks for the gift of His dear Son.**********************************AMEN!!!The Pilgrims also had enough biblical sense to reject the "mass of Christ" as pagan and Roman Catholic.
What doesn't traditional Christianity understand about such a simple command not to try and modify pagan holidays to worship the true God since He says He hates it and rejects them as abominations? Why do some professing Christians permit themselves to be ensnared, carried away with heathen customs and pagan practices?Deuteronomy 12:30-31
30 take heed to yourself that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed from before you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, 'How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.' 31 You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way [not the pagan gods, but modified to try and worship God - but in vain] - for every abomination to the LORD which He hates they have done to their gods...Jeremiah 10:2-32 Thus says the LORD: Do not learn the way of the GentilesIF Jesus is Lord, then why do so many professing Christians refuse to love and obey Him? (Titus 1:16, 1 John 2:4).1 Samuel 15:22-23
"Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices [lip service/sacrifices], As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD [for your own traditions], He also has rejected you...
Will God Curse Our Countries for Christmas?Do You Prefer TRADITION Over Truth?Christmas is About Giving - SAYS WHO?Why I No Longer Celebrate Christmas*******************************
Bonnie Alba responded:
Thank you for your comments and information. It might surprise you to know that I agree with your presentation. I am a long-time reader and admirer of C.H. Spurgeon. There are many Christians, regardless of sect, are turning away from the commercialization of Christmas. They are using Christmas to refocus their energies and faith into what God has called them to do---a personal relationship with Christ---all through the year and not just the "lip service" many are prone to. The Mass is only a Catholic rite. Protestants, the remnant who already have a distinct ongoing relationship with Jesus, take Christmas as a "reminder" of who He is and what He has done for us. The symbols (definitely not idols) are reminders also of our faith in Jesus (the Lord who saves).Thank you for taking the time to write.Bonnie******
Good morning Bonnie and thank you for promptly responding.I'm glad you're against the commercialization of the Name of Christ but those who have an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ don't need any whitewashed pagan holiday to "remind" us of who He is and what He has done for us. We're to come out of BABYLON all the way, not look back with any sympathy upon Sodom, so help us God.
Christians must learn to hate hollow days that misrepresent God and Christ and love the biblical festivals that reveal His plan of salvation for all mankind. We should be offended at the Roman Catholic Cult for misappropriating the Name of Christ for their abominations, just like Simon Magus did. We should war against "the mass of Christ" for the fraud it is and let the light of truth expose their Babylonian Mystery religion's darkness.Happy Hanukkah! (I don't officially keep it, but commemorate it as a Christian by reading at least parts of the Books of the Maccabees)David Ben-Ariel
About the Author
David Ben-Ariel is a Christian-Zionist writer and author of Beyond Babylon: Europe's Rise and Fall. Check out the Beyond Babylon blog.

5 Items to Bring on Your Danish Holiday Home Vacation

2006-12-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

5 Items to Bring on Your Danish Holiday Home Vacation
by Erik Simonsen

Packing For Your Danish Holiday Home Vacation
As a general rule, the Danish holiday homes are fully furnished and well-equipped. This is due to the fact that the Danish holiday homes are owned by private individuals who use them as a second home, and therefore keep them well-equipped. You can therefore safely assume that most of the things you will need during your stay will be present in the holiday home when you arrive. For example, the kitchen will always be complete with the basic kitchen utensils such as plates and glasses, and pots and pans. Nevertheless, there are a few items which you will need to bring on your own:
1 - Bed linen
2 - Towels
3 - Dish towels
4 - Cleaning detergents
5 - Toilet paper
It may be that the previous tenant or the owner of the holiday home has left some of these items in the house. For instance, he or she may have left rolls of toilet paper or cleaning detergents behind for the next tenant to use. But as there is no way of knowing this, your best bet is to bring all of these items. In some cases, it is also possible to rent bed linen from the letting agent. The charge for this is generally low and this option may therefore be worth considering, especially if the amount of luggage you can bring is limited.
In addition to the crucial items listed above, it may also be a good idea to bring one or more of the following items:
1 - Games
2 - Binoculars
3 - Camera
4 - Radio
5 - Swim suits
6 - Sun screen
7 - Mobile phone and charger (+ adapter for the charger if you charger is not designed for the Danish 220volt sockets)
Remember to pack these items and you will be fully equipped for your stay in one of the many beautiful Danish holiday homes.
Being prepared for your Danish Holiday Home Vacation In addition to knowing what to bring on your holiday, it may also be worth your while to make plans for what you wish to see and do during your stay. Most of the Danish tourist agencies have Internet sites where you can find a wealth of information about the local areas. But there are also a number of other sites on the Internet that provide valuable information about activities in the various holiday home resorts in Denmark. In particular, some of the sites that specialize in offering holiday homes for online booking have extensive catalogues with lots of information and suggestions for your holiday. Click here to visit one of the most extensive Danish holiday home catalogues on the web.
Now you know what to bring along and where to find ideas for your vacation in a Danish holiday home, so all that is left to do is to wish you a pleasant stay in Denmark. Bon Voyage - or as the Danes say "God Ferie"!
About the Author
Erik Simonsen is with Feline Holiday Denmark - the web's premier resource for Danish Holiday Homes, Danish Holiday Centres, and Danish Hotels.

New Year?s Resolution: Love Your Body!

2006-11-01T17:23:00.000-08:00

Ah, the beginning of a New Year. A time to reflect and start anew: new hopes, dreams, goals for yourself. Speaking of which, have you taken that all important inventory of your body, yet? Is this the year you're going to make the change?
Wondering how to begin? Read on?
Most people begin a new year in earnest; dreaming of building a shapely new body. However, by the end of January they are back to their same old habits. This year make it easy on yourself; simply commit yourself to building healthy body. The rest is easy: you'll need only to glean the proper education and time management. Here, I've outlined five basic steps so you can easily begin your commitment to a healthy, shapely new year:

Step One: Begin where you are. This sounds logical but it's true. All you really have is this moment; today. The past is behind you, learn from it, then let it go. Aim to be grateful for where you are right now, give thanks for who you are. You are unique and special. In fact, take some time to list all of your greatest gifts. Reflect on them and give thanks.

Step Two: Just as you must begin where you are, you must Love your body as it is right now. Perhaps you don't know this yet, but your body is perfect, healthy and whole just as it is. Even if it is not the image of what you define as perfection, inside you is the potential for health, beauty and well being. Give thanks for this beautiful machine! This beautiful body that is yours has the potential to do great things. At this moment: vow to take great care of this body and engage its natural ability to be healthy.

Step Three: Do more with less. You don't necessarily need expensive equipment or gym memberships to take care of your body, begin by getting yourself moving everyday and making some small changes to your diet. Here are some simple ideas: decrease your salt and sugar intake and take some long, leisurely walks. Embrace how good it feels to treat your body well and put it in motion. Form a habit of feeding your body better and get it moving. Soon you will work these efforts into a regular exercise and a sound nutrition program.

Step Four: Get support. There are many ways to get support in creating your Brand New Body: online and off. If you need to lose weight, Weight Watchers has built a community of like minded people that know how get the job done. You can find your local chapter or check them out online at http://www.weightwatchers.com/ There are also many communities that have group support check out: http://www.groupdiets.com/. They have an excellent community, specializing in weight loss, proper nutrition and exercise.

Step Five: Set a goal for the year, then break it down. Finally, set your big yearly goal! But wait--before you get intimidated-- break this big goal into 12 mini-goals; achievable things you can do each month. Next, begin to carve out specific "exercise time" in your day. Are you a morning person? Do you have most of your energy before bed? Be aware of these things when you begin to move into your exercise "habit forming."
Most of all make a motion to educate yourself this year. Yes you can, be Smart and Fit! Check out books on exercise (see Brand New Body ==>http://www.1brand-new-body.com) Finally, reward yourself as you progress through 2004. Instead of food, try a massage, a weekend trip to a day spa or just taking a day for yourself. Yes, sometimes beginning a new year can be daunting, but if you have a plan, support and a bit of motivation: chances are you will meet with success!
About The Author
Laura Turner, C.P.T wants to help you build a Brand New Body.
She is building an Online Fitness Community at http://www.1brand-new-body.com/. Set goals, Lose Weight, Get Fit and healthy. No more excuses! Start now.

Throwing an Anniversary Party to be Remembered

2006-11-01T00:27:00.000-08:00

Throwing an Anniversary Party to be Remembered

Anniversary parties are a wonderful way to celebrate
two people who have been together for a number of
years. The most common anniversary parties are for 25
years and 50 years. There are many things you can do to
make this day special for not only the couple, but all
of their family and friends as well. Many people have
shared in the joys and sorrows of the anniversary
couple and they help to make this a special day as
well. Planning an anniversary party is a huge
undertaking, sometimes almost as big as a wedding.
Silver or Gold?
An anniversary party theme is fairly simple to
determine. Unless the couple or their immediate family
has requested a particular theme (this is unlikely),
you should plan a fairly traditional party. A 25th
wedding anniversary is traditionally silver, while a
50th anniversary is gold. Use this to plan the majority
of your party, everything from invitations to
decorations.
Who to Invite
An anniversary party can be as big as a wedding. While
many people opt for a small get together consisting of
family and close friends only, others look forward to a
huge celebration with everyone who has touched their
lives in past years. 25th anniversary parties tend to
be of the smaller more intimate variety, whereas 50
years together definitely deserves more of a to-do.
If you're planning a huge bash, it may take quite a bit
of time to come up with a guest list. If the happy
couple knows about the party the easiest thing to do is
ask them who should be invited. Family members and
close friends are fairly obvious, but in addition you
may want to invite old coworkers, church members, old
neighbors, and the list can go on. If you are planning
a surprise party for the couple, this can be a little
tricky. Rather than getting the input of just one
family member, send a tentative guest list to several
family members and ask each for additions and
deletions. This will help make sure no one gets missed.
The Invitations
If you're throwing a huge anniversary party, sending
out invitations can be quite the task. If the party
budget allows for it, get them custom made. You can
order the invitations online and get everything shipped
to you and ready to go. This will save an enormous
amount of time. If the party budget is tight and that
money would better go to use elsewhere, making your own
invitations can actually be quite simple. All you need
is a computer and a printer. You can download some
great invitations templates that are simple enough to
put together. All you need to do is add all the party
information and perhaps a beautiful quote on the front
and voila your invitations are ready to go.
Setting the Scene
Decorations for the party don't have to be hugely
extravagant, but by adding some special touches you
will help make the night even more special for the
happy couple. Use the anniversary color almost
exclusively; this will help make a great effect. Some
ways to use either silver or gold are:
- Use gold or silver pen or ink for place cards, menu,
and any other written items
- Gold or silver balloons make a beautiful yet
inexpensive decoration
- Add gold or silver placemats or doilies at each place
setting
- Gold or silver candles and or candle holders make a
great centerpiece
- Dinnerware and barware should have gold or silver
accents
There are many other ways in which you can incorporate
these colors into the party. Just be sure not to overdo
it since this may actually have a night club-ish tacky
sort of look to it. Add plenty of white to balance it
out.
Favors to Remember
Many couples will want to send their guests away with a
little something to remember the night by and as a
thank you for attending. One of the best favors ideas
is a small picture frame of the couple. You can use
pictures from their wedding day or a more recent photo.
If you can find picture frames that hold two photos a
nice idea is to add both a picture of their wedding day
and a recent one. Friends and family of the couple will
love taking this beautiful keepsake home.
Another great idea is a CD of songs form the era that
the couple met and was married. This will bring back
great memories for many of their family and friends and
is probably one of the most useful favor possibilities.
Be sure to check with local copyright laws to determine
what type of fees apply to creating and giving away a
music compilation. Make sure that all the music on the
CD gets played throughout the night to really give
guests something to remember.
A Night of Nostalgia
A great idea for any anniversary party, big or small,
is a slide show. Start the show of with pictures of the
couple when they first met and progress through the
years of children and grandchildren. Don't be surprised
to see a few eyes get misty during the show. Add some
memorable quotes throughout the show, and play some
touching music that reminds them of certain times in
their lives.
If you want the slide show to be a surprise, you can
ask family and friends for their favorite pictures to
add to the show. You'll probably end up with more
pictures than you'll know what to do with so don't
worry if you can't get any of the couple's picture
albums.
As you can see, planning an anniversary party can take
a lot of time, so start planning as soon as possible.
Since you could be inviting well over 100 people,
starting a year in advance isn't too soon. Don't try
and take this task on by yourself, you'll probably have
plenty of offers from friends and family to give you a
hand; definitely take them up on their offer. This will
be a night for everyone to cherish and remember, and
the happy anniversary couple will be on cloud nine
after seeing how much they mean to everyone in their
lives.
John Lenaghan writes about party planning and other
tips for the Party Ideas 4u website, where he provides
valuable tips and advice about Anniversary party ideas,
birthday party ideas and other party planning topics.

Spice Up Your Life with an Adventure Holiday!

2006-11-01T00:26:00.000-08:00

Are you bored with the routine of city life? Do you
yearn for a getaway from the hustle and bustle and put
some excitement into your life? Do you hope to visit
the places that have been aired over National
Geographic Explorer and experience it for yourself? If
your answer is yes to these questions, then adventure
travel is just the thing for you!
Defining an Adventure Holiday
Ok, so you've decided that you want an adventure
holiday. This leads you to the next question ? what
type of adventure holiday do you want? There is just so
much variety and different perceptions of the word "
Adventure" that people have come up with all sorts of
activities to define this word. For example, there's
the nerve-wrenching bungee jumping sport with locations
available to do this all over the world. If you are
into water adventures, then white-water rafting may
just be right for you. For mountain climbers, they can
scale any mountain in the world, each providing the
mountain climber distinctive challenges and excitement.
On the other hand, some people may consider watching a
cultural parade in an exotic country as an adventure.
For example, the annual carnival at Tobago offers an
opportunity for visitors to join into their
celebrations of street parties and multi-colored
parades. Perhaps a cruise to Alaska to watch seals and
whales is an adventure to some, while others may prefer
a hot air balloon ride amongst the clouds. Those with
an archeological spirit within them, may desire to
visit the ruins of Anchor Wat or the Pyramids of
Kulkulcan and call that an adventure.
Well, the possibilities are just endless. And the
definitions are wider. In the end, as long as you had a
good time, experienced a great getaway and have opened
your eyes to new sights and sounds, your objectives
would then have already been met.
Preparing for your Adventure
Once you have made your decision on your destination
and activity, the next step that you need to take is to
gather as much information as you can on your
destination. Things like health warnings, local
hazards, visas and weather conditions are just some of
the few things that you need to take note of. It would
be advisable to join a forum to get to know others who
have gone to the same location and have done the same
thing, in order to get advice beforehand on things that
you need to watch out for.
If your trip requires physical exertion, for example
activities like mountain climbing, trekking, whitewater
rafting or even bungee jumping; you will need to get
yourself physically ready. Cross-training and focused
exercise is advisable so that you don't break down or
sustain unnecessary injury during the course of your
trip. Also, get a medical check-up before you go, to
ensure a clean bill of health and fitness before you
embark.
Finally, adventure travel is no doubt a great deal of
fun and also a necessary ingredient to add variety to
your daily routine. Once you have had a taste of a
great adventure, you will no doubt look forward to your
next adventure holiday! For more information and
bookings on adventure travel america and overseas visit
http://www.adventuretraveltips.com/
Loreal Oliver is an advanturous traveller and preety
crazy too. He travels extensively around the world
since the age of 17 years and never gets tired. There
is few places unexplored by him and he is always ready
for another venture. He loves Photography and reading.

Tools and Tips for Keeping the Holidays Organized

2006-11-01T00:25:00.000-08:00

It's November 1st. You've walked into your favorite
store to buy half-priced Halloween candy and what do
you see? Christmas decorations! "Oh, no!" you think to
yourself. "That can only mean one thing..."
The HOLIDAYS are coming!
Don't stress-you're going to start early and be more
organized this year...Here are some tools and tips for
staying on top of the busy and sometimes stressful
holiday season.
TOOL #1: Lists
Why keep lists? Whether they are written on paper or
typed onto your computer, a list allows you to do a
sort of 'brain dump' of everything you need to recall
at a moment's notice. There are so many different
things to remember when it comes to holiday time: Your
husband's shirt size, the spices you need for this
year's stuffing, what store has gift wrap on sale, etc.
Unless you have an incredible memory, keeping lists
will help get you through some of the stress of the
holiday season.
Some examples of list topics you may need during the
holidays are:

food shopping list
lists of dishes to prepare when entertaining
gift list
invitation lists

TOOL #2: Calendar
This may be the most important organizing tool you use
this season. Why use a calendar? A calendar is a tool
that helps you plan what you need to accomplish in a
day, a week, or a month. And boy, is there a lot to
accomplish during the holidays! As opposed to just
making to-do lists, sometimes seeing time in visual
blocks on paper (or electronically) helps one to manage
their time more efficiently...
Examples of activities to be scheduled during the
holidays are:

food shopping
gift shopping
cooking
wrapping gifts
trips to the post office
holiday parties (whether hosted by you or someone else)

Become a 'Master of Time Management.'
How will you know how much time to put aside for each
task? Work backwards from the day or time that a task
needs to be done by. Estimate how many hours/days it
would take to complete the task. Schedule the time and
and mark your calendar accordingly.
For example:
Task:
Cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving (to be ready by
Thursday at 5pm)
Steps:

Purchase turkey at least one week before Thanksgiving
(enter task in calendar for the week before
Thanksgiving)
Defrost turkey 2-3 days before Thanksgiving depending
upon size (calculate defrosting time and enter task in
calendar to be started on Monday or Tuesday before
Thanksgiving)
Cook turkey. This can take 3-6 hours depending upon
size (calculate cooking time and write on your calendar
for Thursday what time the bird needs to be in the oven
by in order to finish cooking by 5pm)
A schedule is a guideline and should be flexible. Try
to schedule tasks to be completed ahead of deadline.
This allows for any problems or emergencies that may
arise.
TOOL #3: Quality Storage Containers
Dishes
Are your holiday dishes in a box in the attic? A great
product for protecting and storing your holiday (or any
type of) dishes are China Keepers. They are padded/
quilted, made of either cotton or vinyl and come in
different shapes and sizes depending upon your storage
needs.
*Lillian Vernon Online sells them in six different
patterns including one set decorated for the Christmas
season (http://www.lillianvernon.com/).
Holiday Decorations
Some people decorate their homes only in the winter and
some people choose to decorate for every holiday in the
year. Whichever person you claim to be, it is important
to keep your decorations from being ruined due to
improper storage and care. A few options are:

large plastic bins with ornament dividers
ziploc bags for small items such as ornament hangers
and anything small enough to get lost in a big box
small plastic bins for lights, candles, and the ziploc
bags of smaller items
wreath boxes specially designed for wreath storage (
found at http://www.organizes-it.com/)

*Label everything so you can find it easily next year.
Leftover Food
Wrapping leftovers in tinfoil might be a quick way to
get them from frying pan to fridge but you'll be
spending a great deal of time figuring out what's
inside of them. Use food containers such as those made
by Rubbermaid or Tupperware or 'disposable' containers
such as ones made by Glad and Ziploc. They're found in
most supermarkets. They stack well and if you want to
give out leftovers to your guests, they're not very
expensive to replace.
Tips for staying organized throughout the holiday
season:

Wrap gifts and write holiday cards as early in the
season as possible. I don't know anyone (including
postal employees) that want to be in the post office
around the time of December 25th...
Shop early in the season, at off-peak hours or online
if at all possible
When storing ornaments, group them by theme. This will
make it easier to find exactly which ones you want.
After the holiday, sort through ornaments, wall/door
hangings, linens, etc. and purge anything that you do
not need, want, or is beyond repair.

Above all, remain calm. If you stay organized, the
holidays will be less stressful and you will enjoy
yourself even more. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
About The Author
Stacey Agin Murray, professional organizer and owner of
Organized Artistry, LLC, transforms 'mess' into
'masterpiece' with patience, organizing know-how, and a
sense of humor. For more articles and to get your FREE
e-list of 'Top Ten Tips for Organized Living' visit
http://www.organizedartistry.com/;
stacey@organizedartistry.com

Create Warm Memories with Holiday Traditions

2006-11-01T00:22:00.000-08:00

I remember just a handful of the Christmas presents I
received as a child: My first Barbie doll with her
skinny black sequined gown. My soft, pink Pat-a-Burp
doll. The microscope I got in second grade.
But I have many, many memories of our holiday
traditions. The lovely aromas of holiday ethnic food.
Riding the South Shore train into Chicago to visit the
"real" Santa. Using a paintbrush to decorate sugar
cookies with colored frosting. Setting up our manger
scene.
Traditions add so much joy to the holidays. Traditions
give a child a sense of belonging and identity. They
strengthen bonds across generations and live long in
memory.
A family rich in traditions has a powerful antidote to
commercialism. The more focused you are on pleasures
that cost little or nothing, the more all the gifts
tend to stay in their appropriate place.
Best of all, many traditions are perfectly suited to
today's busy families. Here are a few favorites:
SIMPLE PLEASURES
Light candles at dinnertime. If December mornings are
dark where you live, light candles at breakfast, too.
Take an evening stroll or car ride to look at Christmas
lights.
Serve warm chocolate with candy canes for stirring.
THE JOY OF GIVING
Let your kids in on the excitement of finding and
wrapping gifts for those they love. Compliment them for
being big enough to keep the surprise a secret.
As a family, decide on a charity and make a donation.
Our favorite is Heifer International (http://www.heifer.org/).
Take a plate of cookies or other holiday treats to a
homeless shelter or to a police or fire station.
GRATITUDE
Give family members strips of paper in holiday colors.
Let everyone write or draw something they're thankful
for on each strip. Link the strips into a chain and
hang as a decoration.
Write thank-you cards to each other. Decide together
when to open them.
CONNECTING GENERATIONS
Interview grandparents, aunts, and uncles about holiday
traditions they remember from their childhood. Adopt
any traditions that fit your family.
Ask relatives for holiday recipes that have been handed
down in your family. Or, search the Internet for
holiday recipes related to your ethnic origins.
NEW YEAR'S EVE
If your kids are little, it works fine to celebrate the
new year at 9 PM instead of midnight!
Pull out photos and videos from the past year and share
your memories.
Keep a box of inexpensive noisemakers and party hats
that you can re-use each year. The kids will enjoy
pulling out their old favorites.
NEW YEAR'S DAY
Decorate a box in which you'll put photos, ticket stubs
and other souveniers of the coming year. Talk about
your hopes and wishes.
Let each family member put New Year's resolutions into
their own envelope. Author Mimi Doe ("Busy But
Balanced") has a tradition of sealing the envelopes
with wax -- a nice, magical touch.
(c) 2004 Norma Schmidt, Coach, LLC
Norma Schmidt, Coach, LLC, specializes in helping
working mothers create balance. She offers workshops,
teleclasses and individual and group coaching. Her free
e-mail newsletter, "The Balance Point," is published
bi-weekly. Visit http://www.normaschmidt.com/

Celebrate Parks Day, Everyday this Summer!

2006-11-01T00:21:00.000-08:00

Canada's Parks Day falls on July 16'th this year. First
celebrated in 1990, Parks Day is an opportunity for
individuals to participate in hundreds of unique and
fun events taking place in sites from coast to coast.
Events are organized in national parks, national
historic sites, provincial parks, and territorial
parks, as well as in community and regional parks
across the country.
Increasingly regulated and restricted, the dwindling
islands we like to call parks are more precious than we
could possibly realize. Although having a special day
to honor them is fantastic, there really should be a
year-round awareness to maintain and keep them clean
and garbage free. When we make an effort to keep trails
and waterways clean we see measurable results in a
healthier and safer environment for wildlife and humans
alike to enjoy. Many communities rely on tourism and a
clean pristine park will entice tourists to return and
mention it to others.
Parks and trails with trash bins are less likely to
have litter lying around the grounds. Get in the habit
of always packing a supply of bags to pick up any stray
litter you might find along the way. Rather than
walking by trash and fretting about it ? pick it up and
be proactive! It is surprising how good it begins to
feel when you make a difference.
Eighty percent of the waste found in waterways (
streams, creeks, rivers, swamps, lakes and oceans)
originates from inland sources. Rivers act like a
vortex pulling in debris through air and water currents
and can carry it thousands of miles further along its
path. Cities on or near these waterways have a
responsibility to be even more diligent of pollution as
they are more likely to 'share' with unwilling
populations downstream of them.
Highways and roads are also convenient corridors for
loose garbage to travel upon. Natural wind and breezes
caused by traffic can pull in a vast amount of junk. We
can take action and help to decrease this. Starting in
your own yard, do you see loose garbage along your
street and alley bordering your yard that needs to be
cleaned up? Also, encourage friends, neighbors and
businesses to keep garbage bin lids securely closed to
prevent litter escaping to the wind. When carrying
loads in vehicles, make sure the load is covered so
debris does not fall out along the way. Another pro-
active option to consider is stream and swamp clean up
projects in urban areas. These are often supported by
businesses and cities through the donation of garbage
bags, supplies, media coverage, trash removal and
occasionally, volunteers.
Maybe if there were enough of us continually cleaning
up the areas we inhabit, the whole world would resemble
a park. Happy Parks Day?
Written by Dave and Lillian Brummet based on the
concept of their book, Trash Talk. The book offers
useful solutions for the individual to reduce waste and
better manage resources. A guide for anyone concerned
about their impact on the environment. (http://www/.
sunshinecable.com/~drumit)

10 Stress Free Tips to Pamper Mom This Mothers Day

2006-10-30T23:23:00.000-08:00

Mothers Day is the day we set aside each year to show appreciation to our own mother and to the mothers in our lives that we love. Traditionally Mothers Day is the big "Flowers and Chocolate" day. While most moms do enjoy lovely flowers and chocolate, below are some ways that we can pamper mom with gifts and activities that she will remember for years to come.

1. Give Her a Massage
Treat mom to a relaxing massage. Besides just feeling good massage offers many benefits to your body such as reducing stress and anxiety, improves circulation, relieves general body tension and muscle stiffness, improves muscle tone, removes toxins from the muscles, improves flexibility in muscles and joints, improves the immune system, promotes healthy skin and much more.

2. Spa Gift Basket
Mom will love a gift basket filled with an assortment of stress relieving goodies to pamper herself on Mothers Day or anytime she needs to relax. Some ideas of what you can include in her Spa Basket are scented bath gel, bath salts, body lotions, candles, eye pillow, bath pillow and bath brush.

3. Journal/Scrapbook
Moms love to record special events, especially those events that include special moments with their children. A journal is a great affordable gift where she can record her special thoughts and memories. You can take it a step further by giving her a scrapbook where she can also add pictures, fun borders, scrapbook embellishments and more to her written thoughts. This gift can last forever!

4. Candles
Scented Candles are a really affordable and practical gift that any mom will love. Candles provide a relaxing mood and can help her to de-stress by providing memories of special events. A baby scented candle can remind her of when she first held you. A peppermint scented candle can bring back memories of Christmas you spent together. Candles come in many shapes, sizes and scents so you are sure to find one to remind mom of a special time you both shared together. Once you find a scent mom likes add a little note to the gift card of what special time you spent together the scent you chose represents.

5. Facial
Moms love to be pampered and a facial is a wonderful relaxing way to do it. You can treat her to a spa for a facial by a licensed practitioner or you can give her a facial gift basket filled with skin care products according to her skin type for her to do at home at her leisure.

6. Clean House
Treat mom to a "Clean House Day" where you clean her house from top to bottom while she spends her day relaxing and enjoying herself doing whatever it is she likes to do.

7. Mommy and Me Day
Mommy and Me days are not just for mom and little ones anymore. You and mom can spend the day doing whatever is relaxing and enjoyable to you both. Having lunch or dinner together, watching a movie, going to the spa for massages and facials together, whatever she would like to do. The point is to give her the gift of knowing that you love her and enjoy spending quality time with her.

8. Send Her on a Date
Sometimes mom just needs a little time to get away from the everyday chores in life like cooking and cleaning the house. Send her on a date with dad to their favorite restaurant.

9. Yoga
Give the gift of good health to your mom this Mothers Day with a membership to a Yoga class. Yoga is great for relaxation and flexibility as well as being a fun way to get fit and stay fit.

10. Give Her a Hug and Tell Her That You Love Her
This tip is sometimes the most overlooked! We all love our moms but sometimes as we get older and get busy with our own lives we take mom for granted and forget the gift that is most important to her- US! Spend quality time with mom. Give her a big hug and tell her that you love and appreciate her. It's a free gift and one that mom will love most off all.

About the Author
Erica Brooks is Owner of Stress Away Family Shop which includes Stress Away Bath Shop and Stress Away Bridal Shop. She specializes in offering products, tips and resources to help you to combat the everyday stresses of life. You can reach her at http://www.stressawayfamilyshop.com/ and http://www.stressawaybathshop.com/ or via e-mail at service@stressawaybathshop.com

Valentines Day is NOT only for Lovers

2006-10-30T23:15:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is NOT only for Lovers

Some people hate to see Valentines Day come around. Some have ended relationships and feel lonely while others have not yet met that someone special. Valentines Day should be a day to share love with those around you.
Below are 10 thoughts you can do on Valentines Day to make the day special for you:

1. Look around you and appreciate those who care about you, be thankful they are in your life.

2. Rather than expect a card, send a card to someone special in your life (your mum, a relative, a friend) and thank them for being them.

3. Treat yourself on Valentines Day? if you don't love yourself then you will never be able to love others in a meaningful way.

4. Call your mum or your dad, or that someone who made a difference in your life and thank them for caring about you.

5. Enjoy your day, remember, that you are exchanging a day of your life.

6. Take 5 minutes and sit quietly and reflect on all the blessings in your life. Remember there are always those who are in a worse situation than you.

7. Do something nice for someone today. . . it may be as simple as smiling at someone in an elevator to buying someone a coffee.

8. Call that friend or relative that you have not talked with in awhile.

9. Cook or buy your favorite meal for dinner.

10. Last but not least, don't feel sorry for yourself; be thankful for all the good in your life!

About The Author: Catherine Pulsifer is one of the editors of Words of Wisdom 4 U, http://www.wow4u.com/. You will find a collection of motivational and inspirational thoughts, stories, quotes, poems, smiles, proverbs, and more at Words of Wisdom 4 U!

Valentines Day - A Guide for Men

2006-10-29T02:19:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day - A Guide for Men

Did you know that after Christmas, Valentine's Day is the biggest retail holiday? That means a variety of things for you the consumer, but mostly it means the market is saturated with a plethora of heart-shaped, cutesy, not so worth it products. I have a philosophy?one that is not always popular?but here it goes. If you love someone, then saying "I love you" is a full time job, not one accomplished by dime store shrink-wrapped chocolates and plush toys holding bags of candy hearts.
Don't get me wrong. These things were great when we were 10, but we are adults now so here are a few ways to ensure you have a classy holiday that shows you put a lot of thought into it.
The key to success if knowing your significant other's tastes and not stepping on a land mine in the process of telling her how much you care. Yes, this article is geared mostly towards the men out there who are trying to get it right this year. However, women, you can take heed of this advice as well because I don't know a man alive who wants a teddy bear holding a cheap satin heart.

1. Ask yourself "Do I know her tastes well enough to buy a personalized gift?" We are going to help you sort this out, but you are going to have to too.

2. What is your budget? Financial troubles as a result of overspending on Valentine's Day are not going to help your romantic life.

3. Always be classy. You don't have to spend a fortune to achieve style.
We have broken the choices down by the major items generally purchased for Valentine's Day. This by no means is an all-inclusive list, but will put you on the road to victory.

Chocolate:
Does she like it? If not, then obviously skip this traditional gift. Does she have a favorite brand? Or favorite ingredient?Whatever your answers to those questions, do not buy shrink wrapped, generic chocolate. We are not a big fan of the heart shaped, fake lace and Elvis velvet. You know what I am talking about. Now avoid it! A simple, elegant box with a nice ribbon is much classier.

Flowers:
Does she like flowers? (Remember some people are allergic to certain flowers)
Does she have a favorite? There is not a rule that says you must be red roses. I happen to love yellow roses and it would be a sign to me that my mate understood me if he bought me yellow roses instead of traditional red.

Jewelry:
Now talk about a land mine. If you are determined to buy jewelry, consult her friends and family to find out what she likes and wants if you are not absolutely positive. Good jewelry is an expensive proposition to screw up. Avoid heart shaped anything?please, I am begging you. The act of giving her the jewelry is saying "I love you," there is no need to tattoo it on her forehead so to speak by giving her a heart shaped necklace she feels obliged to wear all of the time.

Dinner or Brunch:
1. Go where you will both be comfortable
2. Make reservations to avoid waiting
3. If you want to try something new, go somewhere that you both have wanted to try.
4. If you are nervous about a new place and you want the perfect evening, check out the place ahead of time.
5. Be yourself. For example, if you are not a wine expert then ask for help from the staff. We women like a guy who will ask.
Or be daring?don't go out to eat. If you are not a very good cook, order take away from a local establishment (not fast food or pizza) or hire a personal chef, and put your time into setting a beautiful table. She will be very impressed that you made the effort.

Lingerie:
Oh yet another land mine. Do you get the feeling this holiday was meant to test the best of relationships? Be careful here. Your fantasies may not be her desires. And please, please, please again be classy not tacky. Cheap lingerie does not say "I love you." It says "I'm cheap or you are a tramp." If you aren't sure about this one at all, then make it a partner activity. Tell her you want to buy her something nice and that you want to do it together.

Other Gifts:
There is no rule that your Valentine's Day gift has to be heart shaped, red/pink or traditional. I don't recommend buying her a blender or cordless drill, but if there is something that she has really been checking out and you can afford it, then show her that you have been paying attention and go for it.

Travel:
Many places offer weekend specials for Valentine's Day, but often are booked well in advance. As an alternative, plan a weekend away at a different time and give this to her as a gift over your Valentine's Day dinner.

Proposals:
OK, we saved this one for last because it is a big one. For some reason, the multitudes feel that proposing on Valentine's Day is the thing to do. In case you couldn't tell from this article, I am encouraging you to think out of the box. Valentine's Day proposals have come to be expected. Why not be different, propose at a random time and really surprise her. However, if you feel that you must succumb to the pressure, do it right. Follow all of our tips above and crank them up a notch. Again, be creative but classy. You want her to remember this special time.
So here you are at the end of the article and about ready to chuck in the towel. Don't! We know you can do it. Take a deep breath, do not wait until the last minute and if it all seems a bit too overwhelming, call in help. Use your resources and make this a truly special day that is only the beginning of a truly special year of romance.
Indra A Books, author of this and many other lifestyle articles, is the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company's creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE GO 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net/