Fine Impatiens

Endless Beach Wedding Themes

2005-08-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

Cindy English

If you are considering a beach wedding, the ideas are as endless as your imagination!

One thing about choosing a beach wedding theme is that it allows you total creative freedom. Depending on the time of day, the beach can set the mood. At sunrise or sunset, it is a place of serenity, beauty and romance. Mid-day, it is the hub of excitement, activity, and fun. By nature, a beautiful scene has already been set for you. There is no need for many decorations! Are you planning an intimate wedding with just a few guests? Let the beach help you set the stage for your romantic wedding ideas with a dawn or dusk seaside ceremony. The sunrise or sunset will provide a spectacular background for your wedding photos.

On the other hand, if you want to "tell the world" and have a large gathering of people, consider a mid-summer day "beach-side bash" or fantasy beach wedding that includes your guests. That's the fun part of a beach wedding - your guests can participate. Everyone has fun!

Here are a few ideas to get you started...

* Be Cinderella with your Prince Charming. Have him place the "glass slipper" that fits on your foot as a symbol of your perfect union. You could hire a professional sand sculptor to build a beautiful sand castle as a background for your fairytale theme. Leave in a horse drawn carriage.

* Have a Pirate Wedding. Rent costumes and decorate with treasure chests fake gold coins and jewelry. Have a real treasure hunt. When you leave, sail off into the sunset.

* How about an "I Dream of Jeannie" beach wedding theme? Decorate with pretty, colorful bottles in the sand like the one she was found in. At the end of the day, disappear in a cloud of smoke!

* A Western beach wedding theme would be fun! Many beaches allow horseback riding. The reception could be a good old fashioned fireside "camp out" under the stars. Leave on horseback.

* Have a Rainbow Wedding. Create a rainbow to wed under out of brightly colored helium filled balloons tied together. Hold them down with the "pots of gold" at each end. Have everyone bring a colored umbrella to decorate the aisle with. Great back plan up in case it rains!

* Butterfly weddings are popular. Shades of yellow and orange with butterflies woven amongst the flowers in your tiara and bouquet would be beautiful. Use butterflies as boutonnieres for the guys.

* A Surfing theme would be neat. Of course surf boards and "The Beach Boys" come to mind here!

By the way...

Don't rule out you beach wedding ideas because you don't live near an ocean. The definition of a "beach" is - "the shore of a body of water, especially if sandy or pebbly". That includes lakes and rivers. For that matter, you may have a "beach" right by your swimming pool. There are no rules. Be creative!

It is your beach wedding...it can be anything you want it to be - wherever you want it to be! Most of all...have fun!

Cindy English is the publisher of:
http://www.Beach-Wedding-Themes.com
Beach wedding themes full of fun, fantasy and romance
http://www.All-Florida-Beach-Weddings.com
Plan your wedding celebration in Paradise!
© Copyright 2005 by Cindy English

Explosive Inspirational Rap Artist Debut's This Month!
Syan's Writing Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
�Unique Starr

March 8, 2005 - - Atlanta, GA - - Another year of thug life and gangster glorification has come to a close. 2005 is well on its way to be the year we contemplate the future of hip-hop music.

Who will grab the game by its neck, shake things up, and give us a reality check?

Hip-hop's fire is slowly dwindling into a dim flame.

What we need is a unique star to shine on the music of our generation and bring hip-hop back to what it used to be - an escape from reality providing inspirational food for thought laced over a bangin' track.�

Oneness Music's newest artist, Unique Starr, comes from the heart of Bed Stuy, NY, to quench your thirst for knowledge, versatility, and God-given talent.

Inspired by veteran rapper, LL Cool J, Unique Starr caught the attention of Oneness Music's CEO, Ross Jordan. �"I was impressed by his style, class, and sheer musical talent", says Ross. "Listening to his lyrics made me realize that this artist has a positive message for young people." �

Unique's lyrics resonate in the soul while uplifting the mind and spirit toward positivity. �

A military veteran, Unique Starr has been around the world, seen it all, and is here to tell young people there is a better life than what gangster rap is promoting.

A father of 5 boys, Unique Starr feels that it is his calling to show a more positive side to life than just over-exposed body parts and spending hard earned money on jewelry, cars, and drugs.
�
Being underground for over 12 years has humbled Unique Starr and he knows it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to last in this game.

His debut album, to be released this month, features club tracks as well as positive songs containing powerful life lessons that people of all ages can easily relate to and understand.

The first single entitled, "Unique Starr", drops Friday, March 11th! �

Unique Starr explains, "my music is real positive compared to what's out now". He says that his style and lyrics are a mix of Mase and KRS-One. �

Unique Starr believes that he doesn't need to use profanity and negative themes in his lyrics to get his message across. �

Instead of glorifying the thug life, he fills his music with morals and values as a way to reach the American youth.�

Be on the look out for Unique Starr's forthcoming debut album, which displays his extraordinary lyrical talent as well as production by various producers! �He's combining his ability to be witty with his words and his gully, street voice to strengthen the minds of our generation! �

Visit http://www.onenessmusic.net for more information and downloads!

- Contact Information -
Oneness Music
�Sarah Richardson
770.365.2636
sarah@onenessmusic.net
- ### -
Syan's Writing Services

Syan Newton of Syan's Writing Services has been writing for movers and shakers of the entertainment industry for over 15 years.

Take Off the Rose-Colored Glasses When Dating

2005-08-03T03:48:00.000-07:00

Susan Dunn, MA, certified Emotional Intelligence Coach

Robin was giving me an anatomy of her divorce. "There were signs," she said. "Plenty of them. I just ignored them."

"The counselor told me to ignore how he treated other people," said Manuela, "and concentrate on how he treated me. But one day I became 'other people.'"

It's typical to do this in the early stages of dating and falling in love because, first of all it's an exciting and complex process getting to know someone, and secondly, there are all those wonderful dreamy chemicals bathing our brains.

It's also a time when we're prone to be "optimistic," to assume everything's going to be marvelous. Nobody starts a new relationship hoping it will be a disaster. We invest a lot of time and energy into it, and we can begin to see what we want to see, not what's really going on.

This, by the way, is one of the catch points about Emotional Intelligence, and about learned optimism. It's recommended in many daily situations, particularly performance situations (like giving a speech or pitching an account), but it is never recommended in situations of great consequence. At those times, we need to take off the rose-colored glasses. Dating is surely one of those times.

While you're enjoying the chemical bath coming from the brain-stem and limbic brains, stay in touch with your neocortex - the thinking brain - and process just exactly what it is you're seeing and experiencing. Working with a coach, BTW, can help you with clarity.

"No hay casualidades," say the Spanish. Roughly translated it means, "nothing happens by accident" or "there are no coincidences."

Each of these things happened early on in someone's dating career and were ignored:

� We were sitting at the kitchen table at his folks' house and heard a mousetrap go off. Edward sprang to his feet, ran over to the trap, freed the mouse and then beat it to death with a fly swatter. Somehow I didn't think that related to anything else but the mouse, though it made me sick at the time.
� Stanton was a good doctor. He had taken a contract and was working from home and made plenty of money and that blinded me. Turns out he'd had a couple of partnerships that had failed because he was so demanding and impossible to work with. Boy did I find out about that later. It's very strange for a doctor to work out of his home. Somehow that never registered on me.
� Leo was always very relaxed with me, but whenever a waiter came around, or he talked about someone from his past, he was so critical, it was like he was examining them with a magnifying glass. Came the day I fell under the magnifying glass and was found to be 'wanting' just like everyone else, in tiny, little inconsequential, fly-speck ways.
� Eino always called his divorce "leaving home." I'd never heard a grown male talk that way, but I ignored the implications. My friends said he was like a kid, but I just couldn't see it until I became the surrogate "mom."
� "You know how those fraternity parties are," said Nita, referring to her college promiscuity as if it were common place. I had no idea what she meant, but I found out later on. She assumed casual sex with just about anyway was, 'well, you know how it is.'
� Though she was always on her best behavior when we were together, Dalida referred to her secretary, her maid, and her hairdresser as "the help," and demeaned them in front of me.
� Our dates were frugal, because I'm on a budget and Annie seemed to enjoy them. I missed that all her conversation was about how much things cost, and how she noted, as people passed by, the Gucci purse, or the Rolex watch, or the nasty "fake" jewelry.

Hard as it is, try and keep your head about you - that is, don't get "flooded" by those wonderful chemicals to the point where you aren't paying attention to the little things. That's all it is - little things. Watch how they treat all the other people in their life. The Spanish also say, "What goes around, comes around."

You will have learned, or will be learning, that it's best to nip things in the bud. Yes, people can change. And yes, at middle-age we've all had our 'learning experiences.'

Be mindful. Observe. Ask questions. It can save you from looking up one day and saying, "It was there all the time. Why didn't I see it?"

"Choose your life's mate carefully. From this one decision will come 90% of all your happiness or misery." ~ H. Jackson Brown, Jr., "Life's Little Instruction Book"

©Susan Dunn, MA Clinical Psychology, The EQ Coach�, http://www.susandunn.cc , helping people like you negotiate the turns of midlife transition. We bring the power of Emotional Intelligence to your life through coaching, distance learning, eBooks and Special Reports. Susan is the author of "How to Live Your Life with Emotional Intelligence" - http://www.webstrategies.cc/ebooklibrary.html . Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for FREE eZine.

Get Free Publicity by Pushing the Media's "Hot Buttons"

2005-08-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

George McKenzie

Early in my TV career, a consultant from the Magid Company, the people who practically invented TV news research, told me something that helped me enormously through the years.

'There are no dull stories,' she said. 'Just dull approaches to interesting stories.'

It's true. And it's critical to remember if you want to get
free publicity from any working journalist in any medium.

All journalists want information that's 'newsworthy.' But just how do you 'make' a story newsworthy?

Here's an example.

One of my customers, James Wilson, recently sent me a draft
of a press release he'd written and asked me to critique it
for him.

He was hoping to generate some media interest in a
report he'd authored about writing copy for newspaper ads.

He said he wanted to strengthen the lead sentence in the
body of the copy, which read something like:

'Newspaper ads can be a powerful and productive part of
anyone's marketing campaign...'

That's definitely true, I pointed out...but it has ALWAYS
been true. An editor would be likely to ask, 'What's new
about that?'

Reporters, producers and editors are always looking for
'news value' in a press release. To get a positive
response, your release has to say 'I've got news
for you!'

So I suggested a slightly different approach.

Here's the revision I sent back to him:

(Headline) It all 'Ads' Up--Newspaper Classifieds Are Back

(Subheadline) Whether you're selling jewelry or jalopies,
classifieds are a potent promotional vehicle for small
business -- but only if they've got the 'write stuff.'

(Body) In the dash to board what looked like the 'new
economy' gravy train a few years ago, millions of business
owners switched advertising dollars away from traditional
ads in newspapers.

'A lot of them now wish they hadn't,' according to business
expert James Wilson.

'While many internet advertising initiatives never delivered
on expectations,' Wilson adds, 'the old tried-and-true
newspaper ad still seems to provide a good return on
investment.'

'But,' he continues, 'You've got to make sure the ad is well
written. Advertising budgets have become so stretched, you
can't afford sloppy copy that doesn't get the results you
need.' (end of revised release)

Now the copy is hitting a news 'hot button.'

'Hot buttons' are certain universal themes, story lines,
hooks, tie-ins and angles that make something 'newsworthy.'

There are dozens of them. Controversy, record-breakers,
milestones, celebrities, human interest stories, scandal,
conspiracy, government malfeasance, etc.

I call the hot button in this particular case 'myth-
busting.'

Myth-busting occurs when evidence surfaces disputing
conventional wisdom or accepted patterns of thought.

What's the myth in this case?

The idea that the internet is going to make newspaper ads
obsolete.

The report James wrote 'busts' that myth.

Editors, reporters, and producers love to bust myths. It's
a big hot button.

So when you're composing a release, remember--you have to
find a way to connect your release to a hot button.

Without it...your press release will never 'make the news.'

Instead, it will become 'history.'

During his 31 year broadcasting career, George's
TV Reports have appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS, ESPN
George offers a free 7-day mini course to
anyone who subscribes to his free weekly ezine,
Register at http://www.publicitygoldmine.com/ea

The Nitty Gritty to Soccer Safety
Rebecca Blain

By Rebecca Blain of
http://www.everything-soccer.com

As soccer is one of the most well loved sports on Earth, many children and adults are lured into participating in playing on a daily basis. Due to this wide spread popularity, soccer injuries are very common.

With over 80,000 adults and children going to emergency rooms every year as a result of soccer, knowing the safety rules is vital. When playing and watching, there are certain things that you should always be aware of so that you and your teammates or family members are not among those hurt through either playing or watching. There are several categories of safety rules that you should be aware of. These consist of the following:

On Field Safety
Goal Safety
Stadium Safety
Equipment
Weather Safety
Miscellaneous Accessories

On Field Safety

Of all of the categories, on field safety is the one that players are constantly aware of. This is where most children and adults are injured. Whether it is a sprained ankle from tripping over the ball, collisions, and other accidents, there are several things that you can do to prevent injury. Sprained ankles are one of the most common soccer injuries, as there is a great deal of foot work involved.

These injuries can be avoided by using a slight amount of caution when passing or receiving the ball, as well as taking care when running down the field. Proper foot position when handling the ball is one of the most effective ways at preventing this type of injury. Unfortunately, accidents will happen, regardless of how careful you are. By being diligent, you can make certain whatever injuries you sustain are minor and should not interfere with future game play. The key rule to preventing injuries on the field is to always be observant. Know where the ball is and know who is around you.

Goal Safety

Whether you are the goalie, or a player on defense, the goal can occasionally become a safety hazard. In most instances, collisions with goal or goalie are caused by lack of observation. Whether you trip and fall into the goal posts, or hit the goalie by accident, you need to make certain that you are always watching where you going when moving in to score. Not only can this action cause injury, it can also get you carded which could potentially have you removed from the game.

Another point to consider when shopping for 8 x 24 soccer goals, is to consider goals with rounded posts instead of square posts. When colliding with a post, you're more likely to skip off a rounded one and avoid serious injury.

Stadium Safety

For parents, guardians and friends, there are a few stadium safety tips that tend to be neglected when the subject of soccer safety comes up. Occasionally a player can lose control of the soccer ball, and it enter the stands where you are observing the game. Injuries due to being hit with the ball, or any other piece of equipment that flies your way, can be easily prevented by making certain you pay attention at all times.

Running through the stands, or through the player's area can be dangerous to you and others. As a rule, common sense is the best safety precaution you have. If it involves doing something that could harm yourself or others, such as walking over the back of the bleachers, climbing over people and tall benches, it should be avoided for your sake and others.

Equipment

Without soccer safety equipment, all of the in game rules would be ineffective. Shin guards, cleats, jerseys and proper fitting shorts and socks all work together to ensure that every player can enjoy the game without being at high risk of injury. Shin guards are used to prevent bruising or breaking of the lower portion of the leg, where cleats and soccer balls are highly likely to hit you. Without these, such as lotto shin guards, you put yourself at high risk.

Wearing a proper pair of cleats, such as the ones designed by Nike, gives you more grip into the turf. This grip helps to prevent sprains and breaks in the ankles. These shoes also give your feet adequate protection from other pairs of cleats and impact with the soccer ball.

Proper fitting clothing, ranging from the jersey, shorts and socks, contribute to player comfort. This is important, as distractions from the game can lead to injuries to yourself and others. It is always advisable to wear your proper jerseys to practice or to games. Specially designed jerseys and shorts are designed to handle the rigors of soccer. The fabric in particular is designed to stand up against grass stains as well as be comfortable.

Weather

One aspect of soccer safety that is forgotten by many players and parents is weather conditions. Playing in the rain can be a fun, invigorating experience, treasured by players for years to come. Despite this, playing in muddy conditions is dangerous. The slipping and sliding that creates a great deal of the enjoyment taken from playing soccer in the rain leaves room for a wide variety of different injuries. If you choose to play soccer in the rain, make certain you take every precaution possible, from wearing cleats, guards and your protective gear.

When a full fledged storm comes up, complete with thunder and lightning, game play should be ended immediately. A soccer field is the worst place to be in the middle of a lightning storm, and parents as well as players have been killed or maimed by lightning. If lightning is spotted and your referee does not end the game, you should still leave the field as soon as possible.

Miscellaneous Accessories

Before you play soccer, you need to make certain that you are not wearing miscellaneous accessories such as earrings, anklets and other pieces of jewelry that could be broken or cause harm. Earrings in particular are prone to being torn from earlobes when contact is made with a soccer ball. By removing these pieces of jewelry and other items of this nature, you can help prevent injuries to yourself that could be disfiguring. If you are considering getting piercings and you play soccer, you may want to consider planning to have your piercings done when the soccer season is over.

If you keep all of these things in mind while playing or observing soccer games, you should be able to enjoy the sport while being at low risk of injury.

Rebecca Blain is a professional and hobbyist writer who enjoys taking care of her Siamese Fighting Fish and educating people about soccer cleats which you can read about here:
http://www.everything-soccer.com/replacement-soccer-cleats.html

Zodiac Gift Giving

2005-08-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

Lynda Filer

Aires
March 21 - April 19
Ruled by Mars
Element: Fire
Motto: I am
Color: Red
Gem: Ruby, Garnet, Bloodstone, and Diamond
Aires loves being first, anything unusual and likely to make them stand out from the pack is going to be appreciated. This is the sign of the daredevil, they are in a hurry to get everywhere and set the world on fire. Aires rules the Head.

For women hair accessories, ear-rings, sunglasses and stylish organizers are going to be popular. For the men gadgety "toys" will win their approval as will anything that confirms his status as an action man. Tickets to a sporting event are also likely to be popular with the Aires male.

Taurus
April 20 - May 20
Ruled by Venus
Element: Earth
Motto: I have
Color: Blue, Green, and Pink
Gem: Sapphire, Emerald, Jade, and Opal

Taurus knows how to appreciate the finer things in life. Comfort features largely in the Taurus home and any gift that allows them to wallow in luxury will go over well.

Taurus rules the throat and vocal cords so music will always make a popular gift. A hamper full of tempting and delicious delicacies will also win you their approval. For women necklaces would be suitable. For either sex gifts that allow them to express their own creative natures would be appreciated.

Gemini
May 21 - June 20
Ruled by Mercury
Element: Air
Motto: I think
Colors: Yellow, Green, and Silver
Gem: Aquamarine, Jade, and Topaz

Gemini rules the mind and these people are usually driven to investigate and discover everything they come across. You could almost argue that there needs to be two of them to cover all the ground they do.

As they are always on the go, travel accessories would be popular with both sexes. Interesting and informative books and videos should also be well received. Their ruler Mercury is the planet of communication so telephone and Internet accessories are likely to be popular as well.

Cancer
June 21 - July 22
Ruled by the Moon
Element: Water
Motto: I feel
Colors: Pale Blue, Silver, Pearl, and White
Gem: Emerald, Cat's Eye, Pearl, and Moonstone

Ruled by the Moon, Cancerians are very attached to their family and their homes. They tend to be very close to their mother or estranged from them. There tends to be no real middle ground with them in this area.

Cancer loves to be pampered and coddled. Hand made and personal gifts that show that you really have gone out of your way to pick something just for them will win you lots of points here. Food and cooking are usually popular with both sexes so a hamper packed with their favorites would be appreciated. Backing this up by whisking them away for a romantic picnic or a weekend away will go over incredibly well.

Leo
July 23 - August 22
Ruled by the Sun
Element: Fire
Motto: I will
Color: Gold, Red, Yellow, and Orange
Gem: Amber, Topaz, Ruby, and Diamond

Leos quite naturally think of themselves as the King and Queen of their personal jungles. They are often rather dramatic and are likely to have a following of loyal friends who appreciate their rather regal charms.

Anything that helps them stand out from the crowd will please both the lions and lionesses. Just make sure it is quality and you will have a big old pussycat on your hands here. Fine champagne, gourmet cheeses and chocolates would be appropriate, as would gold jewelry. Vouchers for a massage, facial or manicure will also be well received.

Virgo
August 24 - September 23
Ruled by Mercury
Element: Earth
Motto: I analyze
Color: Gray, Beige, and Navy Blue
Gem: Jade, Jasper, and Platinum

Virgos are the most practical sign of the zodiac and are likely to appreciate gifts that they can use and that help to keep their life in order.

A leather briefcase or Filofax would make good presents. Gift certificates for a facial or manicure would also be well appreciated. Books are likely to be well accepted by both sexes although you may be better off buying non-fiction as opposed to fiction.

Libra
September 24 - October 23
Ruled by Venus
Element: Air
Motto: I balance
Color: Royal Blue, Amethyst, and Yellow
Gem: Opal, Lapis Lazuli, Emerald, and Jade

Ruled by Venus the planet of love and beauty you can't go wrong by buying gifts that reflect an inner peace and harmony. This sign more than any other strives to create a balance in its life and needs harmony and peaceful surroundings to help them leave the sometimes too hectic world behind.

Elegant and tasteful knickknacks for around the home would be appropriate, most particularly in pairs. Two beautiful candle stick holders; silver photo frames or twin book holders will delight women born under this sign. An elegant watch or dinner at an exclusive restaurant will appeal to both sexes, as would a basket of gourmet goodies.

Scorpio
October 24 - November 22
Ruled by Pluto
Element: Water
Motto: I desire
Color: Red, Maroon, and Black
Gem: Ruby, Garnet, Bloodstone, and Topaz

Dark and mysterious Scorpio more than any other sign inspire fear in the other signs and with good cause. A good and loyal friend they will never forget a kindness but they also find it next to impossible to forgive an injury.

For either sex dark sunglasses to conceal just who or what they are looking at while they are about and about would be appropriate. Known for their passionate, sensuous side; in a close relationship, intimate lingerie as long as it is expensive and classy will also be well received. Scorpio also likes to know things - all things, so books and videos on unusual and little known but interesting subjects are likely to appeal.

Sagittarius
November 23 - December 21
Ruled by Jupiter
Element: Fire
Motto: I see
Color: Purple, Violet
Gem: Turquoise Sapphire, Amethyst, and Diamond

Ruled by Jupiter, Sagittarians are usually the clown princes of the zodiac. They love to travel and hate to be tied down. They are also likely to be quite sporty and active.

Travel equipment or books and videos on travel to different exotic places will appeal to this sign. They are also likely to be quite interested in sport. Exercise equipment or gym membership will also be well received. This sign can also be prone to accidents, so a traveling medical kit would also be quite appropriate.

Capricorn
December 22 - January 20
Ruled by Saturn
Element: Earth
Motto: I use
Color: Dark Blue, Indigo
Gem: Onyx, Obsidian, Jet and Garnet

Capricorn has an appreciation for history and tradition. They like things to be done in the correct manner. They Are consistent and conscientious workers.

Antiques will be well received and a welcome present for a Capricorn. Anything that has a stamp of class and good breeding on it will also be appreciated. Gifts should be practical as well as beautiful.

Aquarius
January 21 - February 19
Ruled by Uranus
Element: Air
Motto: I know
Color: Blue
Gem: Amber Amethyst, Garnet

Aquarians are known for being "out there". They are unusual and individualistic and are often surrounded by friends. This sign can come across as a little impersonal at times as they often feel more content within a crowd of friends than in a one on one relationship.

Anything unusual and one of a kind will please the Aquarian in your life. They are likely to be into new age therapies so you may try your luck with a gift certificate for aromatherapy. Astronomy is usually very popular with Aquarians so telescopes are likely to be a very popular gift. To really impress an Aquarian you could have a star named after them.

Pisces
February 20 - March 20
Ruled by Neptune
Element: Water
Motto: I believe
Color: Sea Green and Aqua
Gem: Sapphire, Amethyst, and Coral

Pisces are usually the softer, dreamy types and anything romantic or sentimental will appeal to them immensely.

Photographic equipment and frames would make good gifts for the Pisces. Luxury bath oils and scents will appeal to the women as will perfume. Water accessories for surfing, diving or swimming should be well received. Pisces often have some musical talent as well so music and or musical equipment are likely to be a good choice.

Lynda FIler lives in sunny Brisbane, Australia and is the webmaster and owner of Astrological Knowledge (http://www.astrologicalknowledge.com) and Scullywag Design and Hosting (http://www.scullywag.com).

Write a Better Online Personal Ad
Tracy Brant at Datreable.com

This article is available on the web as well as by
autoresponder. If you decide to publish, please let us know
at articles@dateable.com and be sure to include the bylines.
Thank you.

ARTICLE URL: http://www.dateable.com/brand/articleadtips.shtml

AUTORESPONDER: adtipsarticle@sendfree.com

WORD COUNT: 1511

===========================================

Write a Better Online Personal Ad
By Tracy Brant at Dateable.com

If you are going to invest time or money in using a
matchmaking website, you should really pay some attention to
writing a profile that will get you some responses. People
will not be interested in emailing you if you do not do
something to make yourself stand out from the masses of
people using personal ads.

I administer several dating websites. People frequently
write in saying, "I never get any replies to my ad." And
when I go look at the ad, I find that they have not filled
out the profile, or added a photo. Who can tell if they want
to email you if there is no information? Not quite as bad,
but still ineffective, is a profile that says, "Email me for
details" or "looking for a nice person." You can't bother
to write a paragraph to find the love of your life? Or even
a fun date for the weekend?

Here are some guidelines for writing effective personal ad
blurbs:

INVESTMENT. Decide that this is worth spending some time
on, or don't bother. You wouldn't submit a sloppy resume,
would you? This is about making a good first impression,
because there will be no second chance once someone clicks
to the next ad.

MARKETING. You are marketing yourself... trying to stand
out in a crowd. You are the "product." and the people you
want to meet are your customers. Think about who you want to
meet, and then think about who THEY want to meet! How can
you tell them that YOU are the person they want to meet?
Magazine ads, for example, grab your attention, make you
laugh, they make you think "wow, what a great thing... I
want to buy it." They can be short, but pack a punch. If
they are long, they tell a good story. Marketers test their
different ad campaigns, and you should, too. Try placing
different ads to see what gets you a better result.

PREPARATION. Before you log in anywhere, do some thinking
and writing. Don't wait until you are faced with a blinking
cursor to write your blurb. Give serious thought to how you
will describe yourself and the person you hope to find.
Write at least two paragraphs, one about yourself, and one
about the person you seek. Ask someone you trust to read
those paragraphs and comment on how well they reflect who
you are and what you want. Save that text to cut and paste
into dating website forms. Have a digital photo or two
ready.

OPENING LINES. Use your username... don't be Bob3456... be
PaintBallPrincess or SecretSuperHero or something else that
reflects your sense of humor and yourself. If the ad allows
you a "subject line" also use that well... "Need woman in
Atlanta" doesn't cut it. "Atlanta man on a mission" sounds
more interesting. "Atlanta Knight seeks his Queen" tells a
different story about who you are seeking. Use your username
and subject line to hook people into your ad. Use humor,
drama, a funky metaphor. Then, like any good ad, you want to
show them you are what they need, show them why you are
unique, and invite them to take action... by emailing you!

DETAILS. Write in complete sentences. Spelling and grammar
DO count. We have modern tools to help with that. You want
to look like you find this task important enough to spell
out the words. Unless you are 15 years old, writing "If u r
inrested n me, wrt 2 me" makes you LOOK 15 years old. ALL
CAPS IS LIKE SHOUTING... don't. It is actually harder to
read.

HONESTY. If you are not honest with yourself and others,
you will not find happiness in the personals. Are you
married? You know, people CAN figure that out and will
resent the lie more than the wedding ring. Without making
any value judgements, putting down "married" will not
necessarily stop you from finding matches. If you are just
looking for a casual date, don't imply that you are looking
for marriage just to get more email... it wastes everyone's
time. If you are looking for a long-term thing, don't think
you can "convince" a casual date to spend more time with
you. You are asking for disappointment. Try completing this
sentence: "In a year, I'd like to see us doing...."

STRINGS. Guys, I see many you making a crucial mistake in
your profiles. You will find that women are seldom looking
for a "no strings relationship." There simply is no such
thing... if it is a relationship, it has strings of SOME
sort. If you don't want strings, you are looking for an
escort service. Women of any description can find casual
physical relationships without lifting a finger to a
keyboard. Don't lie, but think about which "strings" are
okay with you. "Seeking Torrid Summer Romance" is fine and
honest. So is, "I am not eager to move in or get married. I
want to have a regular date for parties and cookouts with my
friends." Ladies, this counts for you, too. If your
personal ad sounds like you might be offering paid sexual
services, you are going to get some rude offers. You might
avoid phrases like, "looking for a wealthy man with good
taste in jewelry."

BEYOND PHYSICAL. Have you ever really dated someone just
for their eye color? OK, maybe you have spectacular
eyeballs. But ads tend to reel off personal stats... and
then stop there, as though there were nothing but a body.
Most personal sites let you click things to describe your
eyes, hair, and height... don't waste valuable profile space
on your hair. Talk about who you are first, and what you
look like at the end. Want to know the number one thing
surveyed women look for in a guy? A sense of humor.

AVOID NEGATIVES. This is not the place to list all the
things that drove you crazy about your ex and how you won't
put up with that again. Don't list what you don't want...
discuss what you DO want. Turn your own lifestyle quirks
into positives, not obstacles. Workaholic? Try, "My career
keeps me very busy, so I need someone with a flexible
schedule for spontaneous one-day adventures." Frugal to a
fault? Try "I find it amusing to squeeze a nickel 'til it
screams... help me research for my web column "CheapDates
for CheapSkates." Worried people will regard your children
as an obstacle? "My family is very important to me and I
hope to find someone that will enjoy the attention of a warm
family circle."

POST A PHOTO. Website statistics show that an ad with a
photo is 80% more likely to get a response. A photo that
shows you relaxed and having fun, no matter what you look
like, is even better. Don't use a photo that isn't current..
it isn't worth looking so insecure, or being rejected later.
Don't rush to ask for a photo... you may look like a "pic
trader," someone who is collecting photos rather than
looking for a real date. Don't stress about your looks...
attraction is about more than looks. Yes, we often are first
attracted to someone by looks, when we meet in person. But
on the Internet, if you seem like a jerk, you won't get the
chance to meet in person.

LIFE STAGES. People often say that "age" is not as
important as "life stage." Where are you in your life? Just
starting out in a new career? Settled into life with kids?
Empty-nesting? Exploring new interests? These are things
that matter. Talk about what is important in your life. "I
am established in my career and now turning my attention to
the great books I never had time to read." "I moved to this
state for a job after college, and I am looking for dates
with a lot of outdoors-loving friends to help me build a
sporty new social circle."

FAVORITE THINGS. Listing ALL your favorite things is
dizzying.. Choose one good example and talk about why you
like it. Choose something that gives the reader an insight
into what you enjoy. You want people to be able to spot
things you have in common, but also feel that there is
something new and interesting to learn about you. Interest
them in learning more with a "teaser" about something
fascinating about you. Ask a question for them to answer in
the reply email.

RULES. Never... NEVER include your last name, phone number
or address. Observe the rules of the various websites...
some do not allow you to post web addresses or email
addresses. Many prohibit crude language or sexual
references. Getting your ad removed by breaking rules is a
waste of time.

So... let your personality be shown in a tasteful way, take
the time to do a good job, and have a good photo. Those
things alone will put you far ahead of the misspelled
anonymous pack. Best of luck!

© Dateable.com LLC 2002

Dateable.com is an exciting online community for singles,
couples and romance lovers. Dateable.com has romantic
resources, advice, poetry, greeting cards, and more.
Dateable.com also features specialty matchmaking services.
Whether you are looking for a soulmate or a playmate, visit
http://dateable.com

Wholesale Jewelry Trade Secrets #1

2005-08-01T09:32:00.000-07:00

Eugenia Bivines

The #1 trade secret that jewelry stores don't want you to know is that the
weight of the gold in gold jewelry makes up the majority of its cost.
This rule applies to all precious metal jewelry, including silver and platinum.
In the US, jewelry is weighed in grams. Some jewelry stores display the
actual weight of each piece, while others do not.

Why don't some jewelry stores want you to know the actual weight?
Because the easiest way to make gold jewelry cheaper is to use less
gold and make it lighter. The main problem with using less gold is that
the jewelry will usually be weaker and more likely to bend.
Some jewelry stores that do not display the weight say that "fine jewelry"
is not sold by the weight. Jewelry stores are not supermarkets, right?

How can this secret help you to make better decisions buying jewelry?
Whenever you are shopping for precious metal jewelry, the first thing you
should figure out is the price per gram. The average price per gram that
we have found at the mall is $28 per gram for 14k gold, $36 per gram for
18k gold, $3 per gram for silver, and $75 per gram for platinum.

Knowing the price per gram will help you compare apples to apples.
It is easy to compare prices for two gold bracelets if they are the same weight,
style, and quality. But this is hardly the case.

Most jewelry stores have very similar items that differ greatly by weight and
price. So in order to compare apples to apples, you must find the price per

gram at each store. As long as the quality and style are similar, the store with

the lower price per gram is always a better value. By negotiating with a sales

person based on price per gram, the sales person will know that you are a

knowledgeable jewelry buyer that cannot be duped.

The price per gram concept also applies to diamonds. All diamonds over $1000 should

come with a GIA certificate rating. When comparing two diamonds of the same rating,

the lower price is always a better value.

Trade Secret #1 Summary
[X] Weight of jewelry determines value
[X] Retailers purchase precious metal jewelry priced per gram, so should you.
[X] In order to compare apples to apples, always figure out the price per gram

Eugenia Bivines, MO USA
Publishing information to help increase your bottom line by
way of free resources.

Spring Fashion Etiquette
Sher Matsen

Spring Fashion Etiquette

Spring can be a busy time - more events to attend, more outings to go to. So what's the right fashion etiquette for the occasion?

Get together in the near future?

A re-union? Try something in a festive jewel tone and be sure to finish your look with some fabulous shoes and hand bag and don't forget the jewelry. Add earrings and a necklace to finish your look.

A baptism - you're the godmother? Try a soft flowing skirt and a cap sleeve blouse. Or how about a nice light shift topped with a print jacket. You'll look stylish but you won't be over done. Pay attention to the shoes on your feet - classy but comfort is important because you'll be standing for a while. Add some light jewelry, a pair of baguette studs and a chain and you'll be ready.

A date for high tea? Although the formality of white gloves is gone it is still important to dress nicely. Do not wear jeans or a sloppy shirt. If the high tea is an informal meeting then pants with a nice light jacket is spring colors is appropriate. If high tea is to honor someone then step it up a notch with a nice light skirt and top, or a nice light dress with jacket. Some funky jewelry for the casual get together or more elegant jewelry for the more formal get together.

Cocktails? There are plenty of options for cocktails. A light weight dress in spring colors with short sleeves, dress it up a little with three quarter sleeves. Go for a fun print, v necklines are great, and don't forget the finishing touches with jewelry. Try some dangle or chandelier earrings. Add a tennis bracelet or bead necklace, some fun but sexy shoes and your set.

Wedding? Make certain you're not resembling the bride or taking away from her day by outdoing her. Contrary to popular belief black is an acceptable color for a wedding. Decide what you're wearing to the wedding based on the type of wedding - is it formal choose a formal dress. Semi casual - skirt and blazer. Beach wedding - something soft and flowing. Add appropriate jewelry, shoes, and handbag.

Office picnic? Relax and wear your casuals. Now don't show up in a pair of sweat pants unless it's going to be a day of baseball and sports. Don't show up wearing your anything inappropriate like shorts that are too short or a clingy top. Capri pants are great combined with a comfy tank or T. Add some fun jewelry, and comfy shoes and your good to go. Remember although this is a fun event it is still a work sponsored event so put your best foot forward.

Black Tie Gala? This season is filled with soft flowing feminine looks. So here's a perfect time to be a girl. Try an ankle length tiered dress with silky layers in a romantic print. Or perhaps a long flowing skirt accented with a fitted top and cashmere sweater. Add a pair of heels and a small matching bag. Don't forget to finish your look with your jewelry - soft colored stone dangle earrings and a teardrop pendant would be perfect!

Evening Out? Pick your favorite pants, skirt, or dress, add a bolero or cardigan over a tank or sleeveless blouse you'll be ready for your evening out. Make your bolero or cardigan your focal point. Add some understated jewelry and your ready to go.

Whether it's a day at the beach, a board room meeting, a cocktail party, or a formal event. Dress to impress, complete your look with jewelry and accessories such as shoes, hand bag, or belt. Make your fashion statement!

Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing estate jewely & costume jewelry for all occasions, as well as a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Diamonds on the Internet! A new and better way of shopping for your diamond and jewelry?

2005-08-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Angelo Tambe

How safe is diamond and jewelry shopping on the internet? What do you need to know! An interview with Patrick J. Boening, President & CEO of the Diamond Wholesale Corporation, aka: DWC Inc. One of North America's top firms in the diamond online and wholesale business. (http://www.DiamondWholesaleCorporation.com)

February 11, 2004-- Interviewing Patrick J. Boening, President and CEO of the Diamond Wholesale Corporation.

Q: More and more people decide to purchase their diamonds online. DWC Inc. could improve its online sales by an impressive 83%. How come?

A: Price, Quality, Variety, Availability and good Customer Service. The confidence and trust in online diamond firms grow over the last years enormously, as most online businesses did. This is the 21st century; you don't have to spend hours in jewelry stores only to be shown a medium quality diamond, in dimmed light for a ridicules price. Then you need to compare and run to the next store to start the whole process over and over again. A tiring, long and expensive way to do business. Retail stores will not give prices over the phone. They need you trapped within their environment. They have to sell you what they have on stock rather then what is available on the market. Remember, when you purchase a diamond or a piece of jewelry in a store, you pay for everything, the expensive location, the beautiful and costly store decoration, sales and security staff etc. etc. The price differences between online and store can easily be 50 - 70 %. On the other hand, jewelers are spoiled and hate the internet. It is like a secret leaked out. Did you ever wonder why jewelers did so well and whenever you passed by the store, their is hardly customer traffic? The smart and educated client with access to the internet realized all that.

Q: Isn't it to risky to purchase such expensive items over the internet, and how can one minimize that risk?

A: I have never heard of an internet diamond firm that "ran off" with the client's money. That would be a one time action. The internet is the fastest media in the world, such actions would be known and spread in hours, around the world and this company would be black listed forever. Surely you should not trust anyone just because they have a web site. If you keep these 9 rules, your purchase will be safer then in most stores:

Rule # 1: Trust a web site (company or organization) only if they publish on their web site, the full businesses address (not only a PO. Box) and phone number. If they don't, they have a reason. Many web sites are owned by the same company or person and would show the same address and phone number.

Rule # 2: Check their references (Testimonials) and talk to existing clients. You will quick find out if they are real or made up.

Rule # 3: Check the professional trade networks and organizations, in the diamond and jewelry field: JBT (Jewelers Board of Trade), Polygon, Rapaport Network etc. If they are not registered there, they are no professionals.

Rule # 4: Check with your local BBB (Better Business Bureau). This is usually one of the first organizations that will receive a customer's complaint.

Rule # 5: Make sure the company you are dealing with gives a full money back guarantee of at least 5 days. This will give you enough time to have the item checked by a professional (Gemologist/Appraiser) of your choice.

Rule # 6: Always choose the appraiser / gemologist yourself. Never let the salesperson recommend one. If the firm recommends an "independent" appraiser or sends the item (s) to an "independent" appraiser/gemologist of their choice, rest assure, that they are in cahoots. (If you have to sign a contract, would you ask the other parties lawyer for advice? Or would you hire your own lawyer?)

Rule # 7: Don't be blinded by photos of diamonds. In most cases the are very misleading. Everyone who understands a little about photography knows that, photos are totally worthless. You need the scientific facts of the diamond, which are written in the Diamond Report, or Certificate. The more details you get the better. AGS (American Gemological Society) provides at the moment North Americas top certificate. It will mention details of cut that are most important and unfortunately most ignored. Crown angle in degrees and height in percent. Pavilion depth and girdle thickness. AGS is as tough as GIA (Gemological Institute of America), but gives you much more scientific details.

Rule # 8: If you found your stone, go for it! Don't wait too long because this diamond could be sold to someone else and you have to start all over again. There are no endless supplies on diamonds in every size, shape, clarity and color out there. Like with most things in life, you often have to compromise.

Rule # 9: Compare apples with apples! When you compare one diamond and it's price with another, hold both certificates (print out the copies that you get via e-mail) next to each other. Look at all the facts and compare, consult the gemologist if data is not clear or you need advice. Comparing one company and their prices with another, take in consideration if taxes, insurance during transport and shipping are included, is any extra cost involved, certificate, appraisal etc., or does it all come as a complete package?

Q: What will the New Year (2004) bring the Diamond Online Industry?

A: Growth! We expect a minimum total growth of 37% this year for the diamond online firms. The Diamond Wholesale Corporation (DWC Inc.) invested heavily and increased customer service as well as keeping the prices at the lowest level possible in order to insure satisfied clients.

Angelo Tambe is the PR Director of the Diamond Wholesale Corporation.

The History of Costume Jewelry
Sher Matsen

There is virtually no difference between costume jewelry and antique jewelry. Costume Jewelry dates back to the 1930s. By the definition of antique that would also make it antique jewelry. However, most jewelry experts have come to agree that antique jewelry predates the 1930s.
Costume Jewelry came into being in the 1930s as a cheap disposable jewelry meant to be worn with a specific outfit, but not meant to be handed down through generations. It was intended to be fashionable for a short period of time, out date itself, and then be repurchased to fit with a new outfit purchase, or with a new fashion style. It became available in large quantities during the 30s.
Cheap jewelry also existed prior to the 1930s. Paste or glass jewelry as far back as the 1700s. The rich had their fine jewelry duplicated for a variety of reasons, using paste or glass stones. By the mid 1800s with the growth of the middle class there were now different levels of jewelry being manufactured using fine, semi-precious and base materials. Fine jewelry of gold, diamonds, fine gems such as emeralds and saphires continued to be made. Jewelry from rolled gold, which is a thin layer of gold attached to a base metal, entered the market for the middle class. This jewelry was often set with semi-precious gems such as amethyst, coral or pearls, and was much more affordable. And then there was jewelry that most anyone could afford, consisting of glass stones and base metals made to look like gold. All three types were intended to be passed down to future generations.
There are usually clues that can help one identify what era a piece of jewelry is from. Style, material, the type of piece. For example dress clips came in in the 1930s and were out of style by the 1950s. Jewelry reflects styles, designs, colors and stones of the era. For example from 1910 to 1930 silver was the favorite color for metal, so jewelry was found in platinum, white gold, silver or a base metal colored to look like silver. By World War II, gold was popular again but in short supply, since it was vital to the war effort. What gold was available was made into very thin sheets and usually bonded to silver (called vermeil) before being turned into jewelry. By the 1930s rhinestones popularity was ever increasing in Europe. It was not available to the Americans until the 1940s. As a result, many of the pieces from this period tend to feature lots of metal and a single stone or a small cluster of tiny rhinestones. .
Today is certainly not much different from past times. We still have fine jewelry, semi precious jewelry, and of course costume jewelry available to us. Costume jewelry can add the finishing touch and show your fashion sense. Costume Jewelry styles of past years are now becoming very fashionable and many are being reproduced. Even with costume jewelry there is a difference in quality. Many of the new pieces do not have the vibrance in the stones or the weight of the older pieces.
Antique and vintage costume jewelry are both fun to collect and fun to wear. No longer is costume jewelry simply "collectable." It is "in style, and " "fashionable," and a terrific conversation starter. Dress to impress!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.
Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry,and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

The Artist Inside All Of Us

2005-07-31T12:14:00.000-07:00

Laura Thykeson - Owner of "Ice Originals II - Vintage Collectibles, Jewelry and Music"

I firmly believe that all people are born artists. Everyone can
remember how, as children, we all loved drawing,
finger-painting, etc. The wonderful thing was, we didn't care
what others thought of our efforts, we were just having fun!

Somehow, as we age, we often lose that creative innocence and
exuberance, and in the process, lose a very gratifying part of
our lives. I see people every day that are unhappy and don't
know why. I believe that if they could "rediscover" a creative
outlet of some form, it would so enrich their lives that they
would return to it again and again. Often I hear adults say, "I
can't do that! I can't even draw a straight line!". Well, the
straight lines don't matter; it's the curved and crooked ones
that are more interesting!

I personally have never had any formal art training. Neither has
my husband, Kris, or our daughter-in-law, April. We all three
just need a creative outlet to help us stay sane, and now here
we are! When you browse through the Artisan Shops on Ruby Lane,
you will see many very talented Artisans with different forms of
artistic _expression. Each and every one of them is exquisitely
beautiful in their own way, and all are uniquely different. That
is the wonderful thing about art. What you create is a very
personal part of you, and that carries over to your work. There
are three of us that contribute to our shop.

I started painting fifteen years ago. I had always wanted to
paint, had never pursued it, and literally just woke up one day
and said, "Today I start painting!" I did, and two months later
sold my first piece. Next thing I knew, I had a custom artwork
shop going out of my home, and later, opened a brick and mortar
store that I had for over a year, until my mother became ill, so
I went back to painting from home. Kris started out designing
book covers in elementary school for extra money. April started
out scrap-booking about two years ago, and has taken off with
her own designs and techniques. I also work in ceramics, clay,
and jewelry, and have sold items through wholesalers in Texas
and Colorado. All because I decided I wanted to paint! Go ahead,
give something a try! "If you can dream it, you can do it"!

"An Artist's Dream"
http://www.tias.com/stores/anart
offers a
Abstract, Fine art, and creative designs using oil, acrylic and
mixed media.
Visit Laura and Kris at Ice Originals II ~ Collectibles, Jewelry and Artistic Designs,
http://www.tias.com/stores/iceorig
"An Artist's Dream", and
"Ice Originals - Inside out!!!".
http://iceoriginals.faithweb.com

Laura is the owner of Ice Originals II ~ Collectibles, Jewelry and Artistic Designs . She is a practicing Artist and collector, as well as a published poet. View her items at http://www.tias.com/stores/iceorig/

View her personal webpage - "Ice Originals - Inside Out" at http://www.iceoriginals.faithweb.com/ for detailed insight into the artists and collectors behind Ice Originals II!

Mombasa & the Kenyan Coast- Where the Sun is Ever Faithful
Andrew Muigai

Kenya's 480 km coast is one of the principal attractions for visitors to the country. Every year, hundreds of thousands of sun lovers find their way here. Many are returning pilgrims who truly know that the sun here is ever faithful. Unlike other beach destinations, the visitor is served with much more than just sun and sand but is delighted to discover ancient coastal forests and historical sites and a people with a fascinating history and culture. The casual visitor impressed by the tranquil beaches and gentle people will not suspect the colourful and eventful history of these realms.

For the tourist, the Kenyan coast can be seen as five regions. These are: the town and island of Mombasa; the south coast -stretching from Mombasa to the Tanzanian border 135 km away: the north coast- covering the beaches from Mombasa up to Kilifi, 60 km away: Malindi and Watamu about 130 km to the northeast of Mombasa and Lamu island and archipelago, 225 km further up from Malindi. Each of these regions has similarities in terms of history, culture, natural attractions and beach experience. But as sports fans will understand, it is the differences that matter to the dedicated fans of each region.

The gateway to the Kenyan coast is Mombasa. You get here by flying into its international airport or by taking the 520 km road journey from Nairobi, the common entry port for most visitors. If you demand the freedom of your own car, consider taking a rental car either in Nairobi on in Mombasa to help you get around. Review the options you have for Kenya Car Rental and Kenya Domestic Flights as you plan to get there.

Mombasa, the principal city at Kenya's coast is one of the oldest human settlements on the eastern seaboard of the African continent. Though it has without doubt been in existence for at least 700 years, it is mentioned in writings of Arab, Roman and Egyptian travelers dated as far back as 2,500 years ago. The Arabs came to trade and settle, starting from about the 8th century AD. With the push of the northeast monsoon, their dhows brought ironware, glassware, textiles, and took home rhino horn, ivory and slaves. Substantial settlements gradually developed and many traders settled and intermarried with local Africans. The Arabs also brought along the message of the Prophet and the Kenyan coast is even today predominantly Muslim.

Relative tranquility prevailed at the coastal towns until the Portuguese showed up at the end of the 15th century. The Portuguese were a substantial seafaring power of the day and were anxious to break the stranglehold of the Ottoman Empire on Indian Ocean trade. Vasco Da Gama opened the way for his compatriots when he made his way round the southern tip of Africa and up to eastern Africa in 1498. The Portuguese were not warmly received in Mombasa, but not so at Malindi. The local sultan offered his ready friendship and proved very useful to Da Gama by providing a pilot who knew how to get to India, his ultimate destination.

Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Mombasa saw plenty of war. For this reason, the city was nicknamed Mvita, which in Swahili translates as Isle of War. Fort Jesus, the permanent garrison whose construction was started by the Portuguese in 1593, changed masters 9 times before 1875. By the terror of war, the Portuguese sought to control the east African coast. As colonial overlords, the Portuguese were deficient in that they were mostly interested in plunder and trade and did not establish robust systems of administration. Another related difficulty they faced was that they were supplied from Goa in India. The student of military theory will recognise this as a classical case of "long supply lines".

The Portuguese were finally driven out by the emerging power of Omani Arabs in 1729. The ascendancy of the Omani Arabs lasted until Britain, a leading super power at the time, appeared at the beginning of the 19th century. The British came in under the guise of a humanitarian mission- the suppression of the slave trade. The Omani Arabs were notorious slave traders. Christian missionaries put pressure on the British government to persuade the Omani Arabs to pursue other trade other than trafficking in humans. This is somewhat like the problem the Americans face today in South America with respect to the cocaine trade.

The British were actually successful in this, by using time honoured carrot and stick tactics. Under the resulting deal, the Omani Arabs whose headquarters was in Zanzibar were recognized as overlords over a 16 km strip along the Kenyan coast. The sultan was to be paid an annuity as compensation for resulting loss of revenue. This territory acquired the status of a British Protectorate until 1963 when the Sultan of Zanzibar ceded it to the newly independent Kenyan nation.

Mombasa is today a cosmopolitan metropolis reflecting the influence of Africans, Persians, Arabs, Turks, Indians, Portuguese and the British. The Old Town is a grid of narrow winding streets lined with houses built to coastal Swahili and Indian styles. Some of the houses have intricately carved doors similar to what you find in Zanzibar and Lamu. In the Old Town you will find Fort Jesus, the permanent garrison built by the hapless Portuguese. Fort Jesus, in addition to being an attraction itself, houses a museum exhibiting various artifacts reflecting the various cultures that have influenced the Kenyan coast. You will also see articles recovered from the ill-fated Portuguese warship Santo Antonio De Tanna, which sank in the siege of 1697 that lasted 1000 days.

In Mombasa you can take an all day dhow trip and relive the experience of the traders who sailed along the East African coast and as far as India and the Persian Gulf aboard these vessels for centuries. For the past few years, every November the Mombasa Carnival has been staged in the town. The Carnival is a lively street parade where you see incredibly adorned musicians and other artists from the Kenyan coast and other parts of the country. Street comedians, Swahili Taarab singers, Maasai warriors, brass bands and individual artists in outrageous costumes brave the November heat to march in the parade.

Visitors to the south coast usually head to Shelley, Tiwi, Diani, Msambweni and Shimoni. These are the beaches to the south of Mombasa, where hotel and resort development has taken place. To get to the south coast beaches you need to take the ferry at Likoni, the southern tip of Mombasa Island. If this does not suit you, take a flight to Diani airstrip. Diani beach, 40 km from Mombasa is the most developed beach at the south coast. This is the quintessential tropical paradise and here you will find a wide range of hotels, including an 18-hole golf resort. Though some of the other beaches are excellent, they have limited range of accommodation and attract fewer people.

Shimoni, 100 km from Mombasa is a centre for serious deep-sea fishing. It is also from Shimoni that you can visit the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Here you will see the treasures of Kenya's underwater world. At the marine park, the snorkeling experience is outstanding and on a lucky day you will swim with the dolphins. At Shimoni, there are a series of deep coastal caves stretching from the sea to deep inland. Arab slavers reportedly used these caves in the dark days of the slave trade. The slaves who perished here are remembered in Roger Whittaker's song "Shimoni".

At the south coast you have plenty of chances to indulge in some thrilling marine activity such as water skiing, wind surfing, scuba diving, goggling and deep-sea fishing. The Shimba Hills National Reserve, directly inland from Diani is a surprise and you have the opportunity to see some of the wildlife that Kenya is famed for. Though the wildlife is not as prolific as in the upcountry game parks, the beautiful rainforest and the spectacular Sheldrick Falls make it worth a visit. You can also spend the night here at Kenya's only tree lodge at the coast, which has some water holes where elephants and other animals come for a drink.

The main attraction of the north coast is its beaches. Heading north from Mombasa these are: Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Vipingo and Kikambala. Here you will find hotel and resort complexes to suit the taste of most beach holiday enthusiasts. From your north coast base, you may want to visit Mamba Village, reputed to be one of the worlds' largest crocodile farms. Those interested in eco conservation projects must not miss Haller Park. The park is named after the Swiss agronomist who by sheer grit and vision transformed a huge abandoned cement quarry into a spectacular 7 sq km nature and animal sanctuary.

At Mtwapa, just beyond Shanzu beach, Kenya Marineland houses some very diverse marine life, which you view from a glass-sided underground tunnel. From the same point, you can take a dhow sailing trip that includes onboard entertainment -acrobatics, fire eating and local dancers. Just off the coast, spectacular coral reefs teem with numerous fish, sea turtles and dolphins. You have an opportunity for world-class diving here, including some serious wreck diving. Diving at the Kenyan coast is good year round, expect in the months of July and August when silting and high seas are a problem.

Malindi has a history going back at least 800 years. This is the only town along the east African coast where the Portuguese found friendship without the persuasion of arms. Vasco Da Gama erected a pillar to serve as a navigation aid that still stands. Today, the town is a particular favourite with Italian visitors. Most of the hotel and resort development are to the south of the town along the Silversands beachfront and nearer town around Malindi Bay. At Malindi Marine National Park, you can see some fascinating coral gardens by diving, snorkeling or from a glass bottomed boat.

Malindi is a respected centre for big game fishing and several world records have been set here. The writer Hemingway was here in the 1930's to enjoy one of his favourite macho sports. Watamu, 15 km further south, is a small beach development around the beautiful inlets of Turtle Bay and Blue Lagoon. Watamu too has its own Marine Park. At the edge of the park, you find a collection of caves housing a school of giant rock cod, some stretching the whole of 2 metres. Consider making an excursion to Gedi Ruins, one of Kenya archeological treasures. Gedi is estimated to have been founded in the 13th century but was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century. Experts guess that marauding Galla tribesmen from up north did in the settlement.

Lamu has in recent years found favour with the international glitterati. The town has an ambience of mediaeval romance that attracts those who are offended by the burdens of our modern existence. Life in the island goes on almost like it did in the 14th century when the settlement was founded. Lamu has narrow streets and the town has only a single car for use by the top government official. Everybody else walks, takes a dhow or uses donkey taxis. If you come in by air you land at nearby Manda Island, from where you take a dhow or ferry. In this centre of Islamic culture, the men wear full-length whites and the women are shorn head to toe in black.

Shela is the main beach on the island and is just 15 minutes away by motorboat. You will find good rated accommodation at Lamu. There are also some very pricey hideaways in the neighboring islands of the archipelago favoured by the jet set. In the centre of the town, you find a fort built by invading Omani Arabs in the early 19th century that now serves as a cultural centre. Lamu museum is located at the seafront, in a house once occupied by Jack Haggard, Queen Victoria's consul in this then important outpost. The museum is a repository of Swahili culture and on display are artifacts, dhows, jewelry and crafts.

At Mombasa and the Kenyan Coast you will find rated accommodation. Once you are there, you can take a break to view some of the wildlife that the country is famed for. From Mombasa, the nearest park reachable by road is Tsavo East, 4 hours away. Another good option is to fly to the Maasai Mara, Kenya's top wildlife sanctuary and home to the big five- elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. There are many Kenya safari options with Mombasa departures

The Kenyan coast has a tropical climate and it is a hot and humid place. Temperatures year round vary between 22� C and 33� C. July and August are the coolest months. Light clothing is recommended, as even the evenings are usually warm. Short sleeve shirts, shorts and trousers for men and short sleeve blouses, slacks and skirts are sufficient. However, in this predominantly Muslim area, women need to dress modestly so as not to offend local sensibilities. But swimwear is perfectly acceptable at beaches and hotel premises.

Copyright © Africa Point

Andrew Muigai is editor of AfricaPoint Insider online newsletter. It is part of AfricaPoint.com- the Africa travel website that has helped thousands of travelers discover Africa. You can view more info on Kenya safari and tours at the website.

Photography for Your Jewelry and Craft Website

2005-07-31T07:33:00.000-07:00

Lisa Jay

Not only is it important to take good photographs for your website, it is equally important to make sure that your pictures load quickly. In this article we will cover a number of important issues:

Photography set up
Camera settings
Editing for Website
Other Important Resources

Photography set up:

Your backdrop is your first concern. Where will you take pictures of your product, craft or object? Outdoor light seems to be the most recommended background. The outdoor lighting helps to create beautiful pictures. For jewelry, this option is not the best. It is harder to photograph jewelry than other crafts. For jewelry there are many other options for setting up a small photography studio.

How to Make My $15.00 Photo Studio http://www.home-jewelry-business-success-tips.com/jewelry-photography.html

Lapidary Art: Basic Jewelry Photography
http://www.lapidaryart.com/projects_2.html

Photographing Jewelry for Print and Web
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/lessons/vault/index.html

Camera settings:

Each camera comes with their own terms. You will have to read your manual to decide what term they use for each of these settings. There are a few settings that you need to make on your camera.

Quality - I use the middle setting. This takes really nice pictures, but does not use up as much disk space.

Picture Resolution - My camera has either High (1760 x 1168 pixels) or Standard (896 x 592 pixels). Use the Standard setting.

Using a scanner to take pictures - Use the highest setting for you scanner to scan your pictures. Then edit as you would pictures that you have taken with a camera.

Editing for Website:
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Before we begin editing your photos there are a few things that you should know:

Do NOT save your photos in JPEG format until you are DONE editing. JPEG files do not take any changes very well. If you save it as a JPEG, then change the size, the picture quality goes down. Each time you open and change it, the quality keeps getting worse. Save all of your original files in your photo editing programs format such as .psd for Photoshop.

Save all of your website pictures in the size that you will use them on your site. Do NOT change the size of them once you get them onto your website. This will cause them to lose their quality. I like my "thumbnail" pictures to be 125 pixels x 125 pixels. The smaller the picture, the quicker it will load.

When you use the "thumbnail" tool, you are VIEWING the picture smaller, but your file size is still large. This causes your pictures to load just as slow as when you put the large picture on that page. This is why you save your picture�the size that you want it to appear on your website. If you want a "thumbnail" sized photo, save it that size.

I recommend Photoshop or Photoshop Elements (the less expensive version approximately $80 at Buy.com) photo editing. There are many more products out there that are less expensive.

Following are the steps to take to edit your pictures for you website.

1. Once you have taken your pictures, download them to your computer. Save these files in your photo editing programs format. Since I use Photoshop, I save them as .psd files.

2. Open your photo editing program and open your picture. Crop your picture two sizes.

-Crop one picture for the "thumbnail" sized picture. I crop at 125 pixels x 125 pixels for square or 140 pixels x 125 pixel. You will have to decide how large or small you want your pictures. Just remember that the larger that they are, the slower they will load. (crop, save this file, then click "undo" to crop your next picture)

-Crop one picture for the larger picture that people will see once they click on the thumbnail. I use 300 pixels x 300 pixels, or 300 pixels x 275 pixels.

3. Use your photo editing tool to sharpen, and adjust brightness. These are all tools that you will have to play with to get the look that you want. I suggest that you read the tutorial on the photo editing program that you are using. Once you have the setting that you like, write them down and use them for most of your pictures.

4. Once you are happy with the appearance of your picture, it is time to save it for your website. In Photoshop they offer an option to "Save for Web". Once you have clicked Save for Web, it will take you to a tool that allows you to save it at the quality that you want. You can save most pictures for websites at 60%-80%. You will also have to play with this to find the right balance between picture quality and load time. For example:

-Picture saved at 60%, not real clear, loads in 3 seconds
-Picture saved at 70%, pretty clear, loads in 4 seconds -- Best Bet!
-Picture saved at 80%, very clear, loads in 10 seconds

If your program does not offer, Save for Web, you will have to read the directions on saving for a website. **Just make sure that you save all of your website pictures in the JPEG format.**

5. Always keep a copy of your original (saved in your photo editing programs format). You may decide to go back and change it.

Lisa Jay is a freelance writer and the jewelry designer behind Lantana Designwear. You can visit her websites at http://www.LantanaDesignwear.com and www.JewelryMakingHQ.com
Be sure to sign up for her newsletter at http://www.JewelryMakingHQ.com/signup_newsletter to receive helpful information on making your business a success.

Body Jewelry: an unusual way of enhancing the beauty of your own body
Angela Davis

Since ancient times body jewelry has been a part of the culture and heritage of different religions. It has been known to be an essential part of the clothing and appearance of the people in many regions of the world. At different parts of time through the centuries it was also used to signify the class demarcations prevalent in society at that point of time.

How ever in recent times it has acquired a new dimension. Body jewelry has never been in such high demand. The human body is not merely a body, it is a piece of art which has its own innate beauty and body jewelry is the perfect way to enhance the beauty of your body. Not only can you decorate your body with it, but you can also use it to bring into focus certain parts of your body or to enhance the beauty of certain parts.

Body jewelry items are usually for particular places on the human body. These more common places for body jewelry include the nose, eyebrow, nipple, ear lobes and naval, along with ear plugs (both curved and straight barbells). As fashion trends keep changing, the various parts where you can use body jewelry and the manner in which you can use it also keeps changing.

Nose body jewelry comes either in the classic captive circular barbell, or in the form of a nose screw. The nose screw can either be jeweled or plain, depending upon your preference. Eyebrow body jewelry is similar to that of the nose, in the sense that the eyebrow body jewelry also has the small captive barbell. This is now being made with a dangling, sparkling charm to hang from the upper most part of your eyebrow barbell. The eyebrow body jewelry can be either curved or straight with a charm of any style or color dangling from the top.

Nipple and naval body jewelry is one of the more popular types of body jewelry, it sis especially popular amongst the youth or the more adventurous in spirit. Nipple body jewelry includes the nipple barbells and the nipple shields. Naval body jewelry designs are also endless.

Whatever kind of body jewelry you use or wear it is important to keep some pointers in mind. Such as what kind of material is that specific body jewelry made off, is your skin allergic to it and is the piercing for the body jewelry done in a sterile and antiseptic environment.

This kind of jewelry is available for almost every conceivable part of your body. There are endless styles, designs, colors and textures in which body jewelry is made. What ever your budget, whether it is low end or high end; body jewelry is available in every range to suit your pocket as well as your tastes.

Body jewelry is not merely a decorative fixture; it is also a personal style statement. You can use it to bring attention or to take away attention from a specific part of your body. It is quite in vogue these days and has been in existence since time immemorial. If you have the attitude and the panache you can carry of any kind of body jewelry.

Looking for information about Jewelry?
Go to: http://www.merryjewelry.com
'Merry Jewelry' is published by Angela Davis -
The Complete Jewelry Resource Directory
Check out more Jewelry articles at: http://www.merryjewelry.com/archive

Wedding Jewelry Trends

2005-07-30T13:18:00.000-07:00

Sher Matsen

Today's wedding jewelry has left the old traditional standbys behind. Today's wedding jewelry covers many styles and trends. Weddings are being used by bridal party members, and family to be creatively adorned with their favourite jewelry. Even the brides jewelry has heated up a bit from the traditional pearls. This season is seeing brides choosing rhinestones, colored faux pearls, crystals, and a host of other jewelry types.

Tradition would have wedding jewelry designed to compliment the whites of a traditional wedding. Today wedding jewelry is being used to enhance to enhance a wedding theme, or to carefully match color pallettes on the brides gown. Today brides often change attire between the wedding and the reception, requiring two sets of jewelry for her wedding day. It's not uncommon to see bride and bridesmaids wearing contrasting colored jewelry, or for beach wedding brides and bridesmaids to be seen wearing fabulous and funky beach jewelry. Even traditional weddings are seeing a more modern traditional style in jewelry.

This season the following trends are very popular for wedding jewelry:

Chandelier Earrings - These long dramatic dangle earrings make dramatic wedding earrings adorned with crystals, rhinestones, or pearls.

Chandelier Necklaces - have been transformed into elegance and are also make a very dramatic statement for halter style dresses.

The romantic styles of the 1920s, '30s, and '40s from are great for an elegant wedding. Add sparkling faceted stones and rhinestones, or vintage glass beads.

Art Deco styles are also very popular this season. Bold can look very good with the right gown.

The trendy multi-layer necklaces are very popular this season.

Dangling layers of crystal beads, pearls, and moonstone are very popular.

This season pearls of all shapes, sizes, and colors are a big hit. Non traditional dyed colors have made it to the top of the fashion statement. We are seeing wonderful shades from lavender to pink to charcoal silver.

Traditional pearls are always popular. Traditional pearls don't need to be cultured, you can buy high quality imitation pearls for a fraction of the price. Swarvoski makes a terrific crystal pearl.

Hair Jewelry add a very feminine touch to the bride and they are also perfect for the bridesmaids. Jewelry combs and beaded hair pins can add a more subtle look. Rhinestones, crystals, pearls are all making a full time appearance in hair jewelry.

A tiara can add the finishing touches to a brides. Tiaras are often made from wire and adored with beads, crystals, or rhinestones.

With all the watch fashions available today, you can truly use your watch as a jewelry accessory. Go from feminine to glitter, or match your color theme. Watches are available in all sizes, styles, and shapes for very affordable pricing.

This season leaves your creativity wide open. Jewelry styles can go from subtle to glitter. From white to bold color. Open up your imagination for the possibilites that await you! Make your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Fancy Colour Diamonds - Diamonds Come In All The Colours Of The Rainbow
Caroline O'Shaughnessy

There may be nothing more beautiful than the diamond. There's a reason that these precious stones are so highly sought after and the reason is beauty. Something that a lot of people may not know is that diamonds come in colours other than white. Fancy colour diamonds are available in almost every colour imaginable and, while the rarity of clolured diamonds makes them more expensive than white or colourless gems, they are nowhere near as costly as they once were.

Colour Me Impressed - Diamonds In Beautiful Natural Colour

Long ago coloured diamonds were far out of reach of the average person. Only about one in every thousand diamonds mined is considered a fancy, others are diamonds that have inclusions that make them undesirable. This rarity in the fancy diamonds made them extremely valuable. It wasn't until science found a way to create coloured diamonds from the imperfect white stones that the naturally coloured ones began to drop in price. This also lowered the popularity of the fancy diamonds which further lowered their cost. Natural fancy colour diamonds are gaining in popularity once again and are no longer just for the wealthy.

Naturally coloured diamonds are used in all manner of diamond rings, earrings, and other diamond jewelry. A Fancy diamond can be cut in the same way as a white diamond and there is once again quite a demand for desirable fancy diamonds. Canary yellow and pink diamonds are especially popular in today's market, but diamonds of all colours are available. Lab enhanced diamonds will cost much less than naturally coloured diamonds, but the colour may fade over time. Diamonds that are naturally fancy will retain their colour forever.

Caroline O'Shaughnessy runs www.Best-Diamonds-Online.com.
She keeps track of all the latest news and developments about diamonds, diamond
rings and diamond
jewelry.

Mexican Silver and Rustic Handcrafts that you can resell for Big Profits on Ebay or any where else

2005-07-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Monica Hernandez

Mexico Trade Monitor. Making it easy for you to do business with Mexico at Mextrademonitor.com.mx
Are You Interested in Importing Products from Mexico ?

+ Get access to hard to find low cost suppliers

+ Get in touch with Mexican suppliers that you probably won't find on the web.

+ Suppliers of beautiful and lucrative hand crafted products like wrought / forged iron, ceramic crafts, blown crystal, talavera pottery, taxco silver, rustic furniture and luxurious clay among many more.

+ Cut the extra middle men and take their profits to your bank account

+ Give better prices to your clients

+ Increase your product offerings and never depend on a single provider

You can access these 2 incredible and updated sources of information at Mextrademonitor.com.mx

1- The Mexican Rustic Handcrafts Manufacturers Directory

2- And the Mexican Taxco Silver Jewelry Manufacturers Directory.

Both are an excellent source for low cost products if you plan to sell silver jewelry and hand crafts on Ebay or start a wholesale or retail operation on the web or else.

We know that you can probably find some Mexican silver and rustic handcrafts and furniture suppliers on the web for free. But those "sources" will most likely be American companies or individuals that are basically resellers. The truth is that with them as your sources you won't even get close to having the best possible wholesale prices.

Some information providers on the web are charging $30 per company profile, while others can charge you more than $1000 per directory, or even a subcription fee to access their trade leads database. But who do you think is listed on their databases? The Mexican manufacturers? or just another reseller eager to sell at a nice profit? Exactly!. Those trade leads databases are mainly filled with lists and lists of intermediaries and marketers that want to make money reselling the product for a heavy profit.

Don't get us wrong. We don't have any problem with being a product reseller. But being a reseller your self, wouldn't it be better if you could cut the extra middleman and offer a better price to your customers ?

Order the updated Mexican handcrafts manufacturers directory Today and Get access to manufacturers of thousands of Mexican products that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries.

Our directory contains Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, taxco silver bracelets, earrings and more elegant jewelry, folk art, blown crystal, Talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts and oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen at incredible low prices.

Avoid those expensive resellers and get in touch with the real Mexican manufacturers today at Mexico Trade Monitor http://www.mextrademonitor.com.mx

We provide you with all the neccessary contact information including email in many cases.

Some of these silver jewelry and hand crafts manufacturers do have a website. But that doesn't mean you can easily find them on the search engines. As we all know, its very hard to make it to the top of the search engine rankings and it can take more than 6 months to even get listed with them. That and the fact that most Mexican artisans are not as computer savvy as "we all think" are the main reason why you won't find that many websites at all of Mexican manufacturers listed on Google or Yahoo. In many cases their websites are not even optimized for the search engines to list them.

Don't expect to get the best possible prices from those "mexican products providers" that you can find on the web for free.

Most of the guys and companies that are ranking at the top of the search engine results are basically American companies that are reselling Mexican products. So don't expect to get the best possible prices from them.

Get our updated directories and start getting incredible low prices per silver gram or per handcrafted product that you can easily resell twice as much or translate into better profit margins for your self.

Once you order from us, you will receive an email providing you with the valuable information for download and fast access.

Forget about having to wait for the directory in the mail and paying an extra fee for shipping and handling.

With us You get fast access to this information so that you can get in contact with the suppliers as quick and convenient for you as possible.

- Access low cost Mexican products that sell incredibly well worldwide ! at Mextrademonitor.com.mx -

With our Mexican Silver Manufacturers Directory you will great deals on silver rings for men and women in all sizes, earrings, necklaces, bangles, charms, chains and bracelets.

With the updated Mexican hand crafts and rustic furniture manufacturers you can get access to thousands of Mexican products that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries.

Our hand craftfs directory contains Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, folk art, blown crystal, talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts and oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen at incredible low prices.

P.S: If you already sell silver jewelry or mexican handcrafts, imagine the savings and the immediate extra profits that you can generate by contacting cheaper reliable suppliers.

Log on to Mexico Trade Monitor http://www.mextrademonitor.com.mx

Monica Hernandez is an international trade consultant helping entrepreneurs import products from Mexico at http://www.mextrademonitor.com.mx

Precious Stones - The Big Five Part 3 The Sapphire
Sam Serio

The sapphire, protector of the innocent, celestial guardian of truth, bringer of health and youth, symbol of the heavens and birthstone for the month of September, is in fact the same stone as the ruby, the mineral corundum.

The blue corundum, ranging in color from the lightest blue to deep blue and black, is the same stone as the ruby, the only difference being in the color. The choicest color is the soft velvety blue, approaching the cornflower in shade and exhibiting that color vividly by artificial as well as by natural light. The deeper-colored stones are known as male, and the light-colored ones as female sapphires. Although choice sapphires are rare, a much greater quantity of good and large stones are to be had than of rubies, and therefore the price of a large sapphire does not advance in the same proportion as the price of a large ruby.

The word "sapphire" which means blue is of the same form in nearly all the early tongues, thus showing that they were in use by the ancients. Sapphires are found in many parts of the world and are usually found in the same locality as the ruby. The largest number and finest quality of these stones come from Thailand and India, and are found and recovered in much the same way as the ruby.

The sapphire is next to the diamond in hardness and it is this quality that makes it impervious to wear and insures its sharp edges and corners against years of use. Like the ruby the value of the sapphire is determined by its color. The finest stones are a deep blue and the deeper the color the more highly it is prized if its translucency is not impaired. Although the sapphire with its many shades of blue is considered the most desirable stone, it is also found in other colors such as red, green, yellow and pink.

The Oriental emerald or green sapphire does not approach the beryl or true emerald in depth of color, but because of its superior hardness and brilliancy, added to its extreme rarity, it is the most valuable of green gems. The Oriental amethyst or purple sapphire sometimes reflects a red color by artificial light, and is valued highly as a gem stone; the common amethyst is softer, less brilliant, and loses by artificial light. The various other colored sapphires, such as yellow or Oriental topaz, light green or Oriental aquamarine, greenish-yellow or Oriental chrysolite, and aurora red or Oriental hyacinth, are all valuable as gem stones when they are pure, well cut, and have pronounced colors-in fact, the name Oriental is given to distinguish the corundums from the less valuable minerals of the same colors which they resemble, but which they greatly surpass in beauty and value because of their brilliancy and superior hardness.

Asterias or star stones are corundums of three different colors; the star sapphire proper is a grayish blue, the star ruby red, and the star topaz yellow. These stones are usually cut cabochon or convex, and display under the rays of the sun, or when exposed to one candle or other artificial light, a beautiful star with six points. This star is produced by foreign substances in the corundum, and the lapidary brings about the regular effect by cutting a pointed carbuncle so that the center of the star begins at the apex, and the six bright stripes radiate to the base of the stone. The bright lines of the star following the light move over the surface of the stone and produce a remarkable effect. These stones are amongst the most wonderful of mineral productions, and good specimens are very valuable. The corundum cat's-eye, called Oriental girasol or sunstone, has a bluish, reddish, or yellowish reflection of light of a lighter shade than the stone itself, and which moves on the convex surface of the stone like the lines of a star stone.

To this day, sapphire is one of the most important members of the family of gems and is certainly one of the most favored by jewelry artisans worldwide. Consequently, there is more "hanky-panky" with treatments, alteration of color and various other techniques to disguise or improve flaws etc., than almost any other precious stone. Buyer beware of bargains that look "too good to be true". Deal with reputable jewelers both online and offline. The sapphire is the birthstone for September.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

The Importance of Travel for A Writer

2005-07-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Maxine Thompson

Copyright 2005 Black Butterfly Press

Dr. Maxine Thompson

http://www.maxinethompson.com
http://www.maxineshow.com

"Don't go into the city alone," the blonde tourist warned me at the port of Belize. "They will cut off your arm for your jewelry."

This was in October 2004, when I went on a Caribbean cruise which, among other islands, stopped in the country of Belize. As I have a friend (whom I'll call Natalia) who grew up in Belize, this made me curious as to how the people actually lived.

Instead of jumping on a tour bus, I decided to get out of my comfort zone and go off the beaten path. I found a group of men standing outside the gates of the port, clamoring for customers to get into their cabs. Finally I chose the most friendly-looking man and climbed into a taxi, which was actually a jitney. On this hour-long ride around the island, I, not only felt deliciously alive, I saw Belize through Natalia's eyes.

My driver, Raoul as I'll call him, assured me that the people would treat me kindly because the island is largely supported by tourism. First, he took me to the richer side of the island. This side of town was comprised of small mansion-like homes, wrapped around by lush palms, which belonged to the prime ministers and the dignitaries. The neighborhood was sedate and quiet as all the inhabitants were at work.

Afterwards, we blundered through the back streets and alleys of Belize, and I met the everyday denizens, including the derelicts.

Looking back, in what Raoul described as the "hood" side of the island, I noticed that the largest house belonged to that of the Obeah woman. This house was chalky white and resembled a mausoleum. It stood out like the Taj Mahal in a trailer camp as it was surrounded by what can only be described as windowless hovels and wooden shacks. Suddenly I realized and appreciated how much Natalia had accomplished by coming to America from this third-world country. (Truly, Natalia had given me an accurate picture as to how underdeveloped the country was.)

But this trip also made me think. How can a writer improve his writing through traveling?

These are just some of the benefits I gained.

1.. Travel gives you a broader frame of reference from which to write.
2..You get to see how people in other parts of the world live.
3..Travel helps you learn how it feels to walk in another man's shoes.
4..Travel satisfies a writer's curiosity and can give you life-changing information.
5..Travel gives you a fresh perspective on life and expands your horizons before you close your eyes in death.

Travel helps you fill out the small details of your writing projects. These were some of the ideas that I gathered while traveling. Some will be used in future projects.

1. From my trip, I absorbed many small details, which eased their way into my novella, Second Chances, a story about renewal and resurrection in life.

2. People are basically generous. As people opened up to me, I found everyone has a story.

3. I learned about the haunted hotels in Galveston, Texas, which is an area of research I'd like to look into.

4. I learned about the flood in Galveston, Texas, which killed over 8,000 people in 1908. I'd like to research this story more.

5. On the cruise, I took classes in traveling around the world safely, which cultivated my desire to travel around the world.

6. I also took a class on feng shui, which I found to be useful as a fictional plotting tool. (Pronounced fung- schway, this is the ancient Chinese art of manipulating and arranging your surroundings to attract positive life energy, or chi, so it can flow smoothly, unblocking any obstructions in your body and environment. Feng Shui evolved from the theory that people are affected for better or worse by their surroundings.)

Most of all, since this trip, I discovered that travel not only broadens a writer's horizons, it is a lucrative way to make money as a travel writer.

As a writer, how would you like to travel the globe and find out how different cultures live? What if you could do this, stay in five-star hotels, and have an all-expense paid for trip? Moreover, what if you could get paid for writing articles about your travels? Wouldn't it be nice to supplement your income as a novelist?

Bottom line. The largest journey is the internal journey that you go on when you travel. I believe the best writing should "Tell me something I don't know." Therefore, when you travel, you will encounter the unknown.
Some resources to help you sell articles, including travel articles are the following:

1. Writer's Market -- this annual publication lists 8,000 or more (mostly North American) publications that buy articles -- travel and others.

2. Writers & Artists Yearbook -- A directory for writers, artists, playwrights, writers for film, radio, and television, designers, illustrators, and photographers. This is a good resource for British and European markets.

3. The Guardian Media Directory -- Also focuses on the British and European markets, this listing contains over 10,000 contacts, from regional newspapers to publishing houses.

Maxine Thompson does 3 Internet radio shows to help authors promote their books and products. They are at www.maxineshow.com., www.vloiceamerica.com, www.artistfirst.com. If you are interested in being a guest, or for help with your writing needs, please contact me at maxtho@aol.com or maxtho@sbcglobal.net.
http://www.maxinethompson.com

Is Your Trash Cash? 5 Easy Places to Sell Your Stuff
Karen Fritscher-Porter

The old adage that says "one person's trash is another person's treasure" never goes out of date. So when you're looking for some extra spending cash and you want to make some space in your home, combine the two endeavors by selling your stuff instead of donating it or trashing it. Use the extra cash to pay a bill or start a holiday gift fund. Even better, use the windfall to treat yourself to a weekend getaway! Plenty of people and places exist to buy what you could be selling instead of giving away or trashing. Here are some places where you can sell your stuff:

ANTIQUE DEALERS AND COLLECTORS: Sell anything from old coins and costume jewelry to old records and toys that are in great shape to dealers. And sometimes not so great shape. I got several offers for an old hand-me down jeweled pocket watch, even with its bit of chipped paint. Dealers often resell your item to make themselves a profit. The telephone book yellow pages yields the names of area antique dealers or check the local newspaper classified ads under the "wanted to buy" sections. Be sure to get more than one quote or appraisal before you sell it.

FLEA MARKETS: Got a bunch of stuff to sell like books, video tapes, figurines, fake (or real) potted plants, even clothing in good shape? Rent a booth at the nearest flea market that generates a lot of traffic. Often just $5 - $15 rents a space with a table. Visit first to scope out the best booth for your bucks. Perhaps even bring your own additional tables, shelves or hanging clothes racks. A sheet or cheap tablecloth will dress up your flea market table too (Sometimes good displays attract more shoppers!). Don't forget the lawn chair and $20 in small bills for change. And flea market shoppers like to haggle. So inflate your prices just a bit so they can strike a bargain with you. It's expected!

CLASSIFIED ADS: Make room for the new couch by selling the old one in your local freebie paper, especially if you're in a college town. Used furnishings are hot sale items to students. I once netted $200 bucks for a small quaint and deteriorating three piece wood bedroom drawer set someone gave me a few years back. I placed an ad in the local "Pennysaver" newspaper for just a few bucks, and dozens of potential buyers called almost immediately. It sold in two days (to a furniture design graduate student who wanted to restore the furniture).

CONSIGNMENT/RESALE SHOPS: If you have discovered that you like walking in fresh air or you stink at tennis, consider giving up your treadmill or tennis rackets in exchange for cash. Sell used sporting goods equipment to stores such as Play it Again; or put it on consignment at such stores. That means if the item sells, the store gets a cut. If it doesn't sell, you're still stuck with it and earn no money. Also, you probably have some clothing consignment stores in your community. Check the phone book and look around, or ask around, to find them. Sometimes resale shops or consignment shops will advertise in those weekly freebie "tell and sell" or community newspapers too. Make some inquiries with these shops about what seasonal clothes they're looking for currently; then give them your good stash of clothes that you no longer wear to sell on consignment. Make sure you inquire about what happens to the clothing if it doesn't sell (so you get it back and they don't cart it off to the nearest charity clothing shop which some will if you want them to do so).

FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS: Sure it's okay to give things away now and then to friends in need. But if you're planning to sell an item and you happen to know a friend, acquaintance or co-worker seeking just such an item, why not give them first purchase option? When I married, I ended up with a lot of duplicate items just taking up storage space. One day during a casual conversation with a co-worker I found a new home for my almost new, small microwave. My co-worker had just divorced, moved to this new state, owned almost no household items and lived in a very small apartment; my small microwave was a perfect match for her needs. I ended up with $25 I needed and she ended up with a must-have item for her new apartment. So keep your ears open for people seeking what you're getting rid of and don't be afraid to say an item is for sale (after all, if you could afford to give it away, you probably wouldn't be reading this article.).

Karen Fritscher-Porter is the publisher/editor of http://www.Christmas-Cash.com, a Website that brings you simple pocket cash and freebie earning opportunities and ideas. She also publishes http://www.EasyHomeOrganizing.com, a Website that helps you organize your home. Both sites offer free articles, information and ideas and a free newsletter.

5 Ways to Win the War on Clutter

2005-07-28T04:48:00.000-07:00

How to Get Promoted

From the time we begin working in a company or business, in the back of our minds, the goal is to move up the ladder, and achieve a higher status along with better pay. There are many steps to achieve this accomplishment, but a combination of many steps, are often necessary. A good amount of patience and fortitude is required.

Here are suggestions, to get promoted:

First, check to see if your company will consider you for the new promotion or if the company will seek only someone, from the outside.
Become knowledgeable of the requirements you will need to have, or perquisites, for the position you desire. If necessary, take any additional education or training. Show your record of how punctual, smart, reliable, expiated ethical standards, problem solving skills during the time you have worked for your company, and that you will continue this achievement, when promoted. Try to have a good sense of humor, when giving answers to questions. Acknowledge any awards, praises you have received, and any over time, that you voluntarily done, especially without any pay. Develop over time, a dependency your boss or company relies upon you. Make sure you always get credit for your accomplishments. Accumulate as many, letters of recommendations during the time you have worked in your current job, and or recommendations from other positions you held in the company.
During the interview, definitely acknowledge, any contributions you have made to achieve a higher status for your company. And, acknowledge, that you had participated in any previous board meetings you had attended. Disclose that you have taken any additional responsibilities in your current position. Use exhibits to highlight those accomplishments, besides having a current resume. Dress formal and without excessive make-up, cologne, perfume or jewelry worn. Practice at home, in front of a mirror or people, how you will present yourself, during the interview. Keep your answers short and to the point, except if further inquiry is requested. Avoid, saying any negative comments about any coworkers or any other candidates seeking the same position. Show your enthusiasm for the position you desire, but not a ridiculous manner. Tell how well you get along with your coworkers. And, how you have helped your coworkers, perform better in their jobs, based upon your suggestions, and created a more happier, working environment. Provide suggestions, what you would accomplish, if promoted to the new position, and a willingness to travel, for business trips, if necessary. Let your interviewer(s), know of your educational degrees. Finally, don't make it seem, like a �life or death situation�, being considered for the new promotion, but always try to have other options available, if you are not considered for the promotion. Including continuing your current position or being hired by another company. During the interview, never threaten to leave your job, if your not promoted, since that shows your arrogance. You certainly have that option, if you decide to pursue that later. As the clich� often offers to �It�s not what you know, it�s who you know� that gets you promoted, which is the final thought.

After the interview, always acknowledge how you appreciated the time, taken for your consideration. And, shake the hands of each interviewer, before you leave. Walk away, feeling optimistic or enthusiastic, if you receive notification, of your promotion, before you leave.

How to Get Promoted
Leonard Konis

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2005-07-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-03T18:54:00.000-07:00

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Become A Winning Salesperson!

2005-07-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

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2005-07-03T05:08:00.000-07:00

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