Online Shopping: 10 Tips For Safe Online Shopping

I-key Benney, CEO

Have you ever bought a product or service from the internet?

Me too.

Some of the reasons why most people are shopping online are: they can buy anything at anytime because Internet shopping is available 24 hours, all the time.

You can shop from the convenience of your home. You can avoid traffic and crowding at the malls.

Online shopping is one of the best ways to locate hard-to-find items not available in your local stores.

Whatever you buy can be delivered by mail to your house.

Most online stores and companies provide excellent values and discount prices because they do not have to pay the overhead of owning a physical business that will cost them insurance, employee pay, taxes and more.

VeriSign, Inc. says that online sales recorded during the prime holidays shopping season was about $2.2 billion dollars.

According to a study by Forrester Research Company, by 2010, online sales will reach $331 billion dollars.

More consumers are shopping online today than a year ago. The range of products they buy are many: software, hardware, electronics, digital products, music, toys, e-books, books, programs, DVD, flowers, pets, jewelry, clothes, air tickets, insurance, cars, prescription drugs, comic books, games, gifts and more.

They are flocking to buy from online bookstores, software stores, online computer stores, target stores, pet stores, liquor stores, drug stores, music stores, furniture stores, fabric stores, the Disney store, outlet stores, surplus stores, discount stores, thrift stores, gift stores, candy stores, lingerie stores, sports stores, video stores, sex stores, department stores, game stores, clothing stores and others.

Be a smart and savvy online shopper. Shop wisely and safely.

Here are a few tips to help you do your online shopping safely.

(1) Shop at the websites of companies that you know and are popular offline.

If you're not sure of the company, request their catalog or brochure first.

Be sure they have a physical address and phone, as well as an e-mail address. Call them and speak to a human being first.

Check with the yellow pages and the Better Business Bureaus to be sure the company is legitimate.

Read all the fine print and the refund policy before you place an order.

You may read about product reviews and what other shoppers have to say about a company at:
http://www.epinions.com, http://www.consumersearch.com , http://www.productopia.com, http://www.deja.com

Here are some internet shopping agents' sites:
http://www.comparenet.com , http://vo.infospace.com , http://bottomdollar.com

To read about reviews on shopping stores, regarding ease of use, pricing, selection and service go to:
http://www.gomez.com, http://www.bizrate.com , http://www.ratingwonders.com

To read about web business frauds and get help to avoid being a victim, go to:
http://www.fraud.org , http://www.bbbonline.org , http://www.webassured.com

(2) Keep a record of all your purchases.

Most people are by nature disorganized and unable to keep records. Learn to keep records of all your online purchases. This will help you keep track of your spending and shopping.

Print all receipts or save them on your computer in a folder named "receipts".

This will help you locate orders that you placed but were never delivered.

The more organized you are the less negative online shopping experience you'll have.

(3) Keep all your important personal information safe.

Don't give them to strangers who may call you over the phone or request them by e-mail.

Personal information includes: your address, e-mail address, phone number, social security number, drivers license, age, information about your family.

Don't give them to any stranger and, also, teach your children not to do so.

(4) Keep your passwords private.

When creating a password, avoid using phone numbers, birth dates or social security numbers.

Be creative. Use a password that is not easy for others to guess, and yet not easy for you to forget.

Change your passwords often. Use phrases to help you remember them.

Don't disclose passwords to anyone.

(5) Use a credit (but never debit) card to make your payment.

Be sure to keep all credit card payment receipts. Check your credit card account statements to be able to spot any unauthorized charges.

When you buy certain goods and services from some companies, sometimes they will keep billing you thereafter. So scrutinize your statements. If you see a charge you're not sure of, call the billing merchant and check it out.

Keep your credit cards secure.

Avoid making a payment using your credit card on a public computer.

Report any lost credit cards immediately and have them cancelled. Don't give anyone that you don't know your credit card number.

(6) Read the return policy before placing an order.

Be sure that you read and understand the return policy and warranty.

(7) Read and understand the company's privacy statement (or policy).

A privacy statement tells you how and why a business is collecting your information, and how that information may be used.
You may find the company's privacy statement (or policy) at the very bottom of the home page or inside their "Terms & Conditions" or "Terms of Service" (TOS).

(8) Use a secure browser and server.

Be sure whatever browser you're using complies with the industry's security standards, such as secure sockets layer (SSL).

This security protocol scrambles or encrypts the personal information you send over the Internet to ensure your transaction is secured.

How do you know if the server is secure where you're making a payment?

If a Web site is using secure technology, its Web address begins with https and a tiny locked padlock appears at the bottom right corner of the screen.

(9) Check out a few stores and compare prices before buying.
Look for hidden costs such as shipping and handling.

(10) Use Yahoo Search Engine for all your searches.

Yahoo continues to be, not only the largest online company, but also, the best Search Engine.

Unlike the other popular Search engine, which keeps companies in a sandbox for many months and refuses to give them rankings for many months, Yahoo is pro business and gives immediate rankings to companies and business.

Their search result is also excellent. That may be one reason why 60% of people online (including me) love Yahoo.

Also, they have the most reliable and the best hosting service in the world.

For these reasons, I strongly recommend you use Yahoo to do all your searches.

Happy and safe online shopping.

Warmly,

I-key Benney


Visit Maychic's Amazon.com Store at:
http://www.maychic.com/amazonstore

Also, Download free "TMT Power Secrets" Book-1 at:
http://www.tmtworldwide.org



Fruity Fashion Picks & Tricks for Summer
Sher Matsen

Summer is here so it's time to freshen up that wardrobe and make your fashion statement for the season.

If you've had a look around the stores or boutiques you'll notice some of the pretties clothes and accessories are displaying fruit. Very upbeat and refreshing after the winter blah.
Well placed appliqu�s, amusing details, juicy colors make these articles of clothing girlish and flirty. The perfect look for weekends and casual days. We've got cherry print dresses, pineapple topped shirts, melon and kiwi print pants and host of other deliciously flavorable garments. If your wardrobe doesn't consist of a lot of fruit why not added some fruit jewelry, Lemons, grapes, cherries - what ever your favorite you'll be in style.

Some of our favorite designer fashion fruit picks this month are:
A cotton graphic T from J Crews selling for $28.00
Satin cropped fruited pants from D&G seliing for $365.00 available at Neiman Marcus stores
A Silk cherry print skirt by Beth Bowley selling for $170.00
A cotton cherry print dress by Moschino Jeanna selling for $430 at Sloan
Leather shoes with faux wood heal from Faryl-robin selling for $89.00
Rhinestone and Lucite lemon necklace from Alexis Bittar selling for $212
Straw hat with glass fruit charms from Hat Attack selling for $88 at Big Drop
Canvas cherry wallet with strap from Louis Vuitton selling for $300

Yes my picks are designer picks and a little bit on the pricey side, but you will find similar garments for affordable pricing at your local shops. You'll find affordable blouses, t tops, pants, skirts, and dresses that fit this seasons look. Affordable costume jewelry in the fruity theme can be found online at several different stores including us at Estate Jewelry International. The fruity jewelry dating from the 1950s is a wonderful new addition for this season

This season is a season of nostalgia because the last time we saw fruity patterns so popular was back in the 1950s. Fruity in moderation is the key to wearing these prints. Here's a good rule of thumb - if it looks good on a 5 or 6 year old then it's not for a grown women.

If you're in your 20s-30s you can choose one item that is a big and bold fruit to make your outfit standout. Don't get carried away. One will make a statement.

If your in your 40s fruity sweetness can quickly sour. Avoid big and bold, rather opting for mini fruit motifs. Small delicate non overpowering fruit is the key here.

If your 50+ then no more than a hint of fruit is for you. How about a cherry tote bag or a pineapple brooch pinned to your blouse, or some strawberries on your flip flops. Remember light is much tastier!

This season has a wonderful mix of cuts and styles, from tunics to fitted blouses, to convertible halter dresses. There are choices for all ages, shapes, and sizes. You'll find fruity prints from head to toe, so enjoy and wear what feels right and looks good. Remember to you can always accessorize with fruity jewelry, belts, and shoes. Make your fashion statement!


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/

A Clothes Encounter In The Business World

Lydia Ramsey

Do you ever wonder where all the dress rules have gone? Depending on when and where you are on any given business day, the words "distant past" might come to mind. It's difficult to decide if people don't know what to wear to work or if they have lost sight of the relevance of appearance to professional success.

The Queen of England is reported to have told Prince Charles, "Dress gives one the outward sign from which people can judge the inward state of mind. One they can see, the other they cannot." Clearly, she was saying what many people are reluctant to accept; that people judge us by the way we dress. In all situations, business and social, our outward appearance sends a message.

Try going to a busy restaurant at lunchtime. Look around you at what people are wearing and see if you don't make judgments about who they are, their line of business, their personalities and their competencies. Think about how you feel when you are dressed in your usual business attire as opposed to casual dress. Your choice of business apparel speaks to your professional behavior and credibility. It is important to understand how to dress for business if you wish to promote yourself and your organization in a positive manner,

How you dress depends on four factors: the industry in which you work, the job you have within that industry, the geographic area in which you live; and most importantly, what your client expects to see.

Professional Dress for Men

In men's clothing, fashion does not change significantly from season to season but business attire is about being professional and not about being fashionable. It's about presenting yourself in a way that makes your clients feel comfortable and confident with you. Dressing for success is still the rule. The professional businessman should keep in mind these few points when deciding what to wear to work.

Choose a conservative suit in navy, black or gray either pinstripe or solid. The quality of the material speaks as loudly as the color and can make the difference between sleaze and suave.

A solid white or blue dress shirt with long sleeves offers the most polished look. The more pattern and color you add, the more the focus is on your clothing, rather than your professionalism.

Ties should be made of silk or a silk-like fabric. Avoid the cartoon characters and go for simple and subtle if you want to enhance your credibility.

Socks should be calf-length or above. Make sure they match not only what you are wearing, but also each other. A quick glance in good light before heading out the door can save embarrassment later in the day. Check for holes as well if you'll be going through airport security and removing your shoes.

Shoes should without question be conservative, clean and well polished. Lace-up shoes are the choice over slip-ons or flip flops. Don't think for a minute that people don't notice shoes. Many people will look at your feet before your face.

Belts need to match or closely coordinate with your shoes. Once again, quality counts.

Keep jewelry to a minimum. In a time when men sport gold necklaces, bracelets and earrings, the business professional should limit himself to a conservative watch, a wedding band and maybe his college ring.

Personal hygiene is part of the success equation. Freshly scrubbed wins out over heavily fragranced any day of the week. Save the after-shave for after hours, but never the shave itself.

The finishing touch for the business man is his choice of accessories: briefcase, portfolio and pen. When it comes to sealing the deal, a top of the line suit, a silk tie and a good pair of leather shoes can lose their affect when you pull out the ball point pen you picked up in the hotel meeting room the day before.

Professional Dress for Women

When women entered the workplace in the 1970's and 1980's in greater numbers than ever before and began to move into positions which had traditionally been held by men, many of them believed that they needed to imitate male business attire. The result was women showing up at the office in skirted suits or coordinated skirts and jackets with tailored blouses finished off with an accessory item that looked very much like a man's tie. Happily those days are gone. While the business woman may now wear trousers to work, she does it out of a desire to appear professional and at the same time enjoy the flexibility and comfort that pants offer over skirts. Her goal is no longer to mirror her male colleagues.

The same overall rules apply to women's work attire as apply to men's. Business clothing is not a reflection of the latest fashion trend. A woman should be noticed for who she is and her professional skills rather than for what she wears. Her business wear should be appropriate for her industry and her position or title within the industry.

Start with a skirted suit or pants suit for the most conservative look. A skirted suit is the most professional. With a few exceptions, dresses do not offer the same credibility unless they are accompanied by matching jackets.

Skirts should be knee-length or slightly above or below. Avoid extremes. A skirt more than two inches above the knee raises eyebrows and questions.

Pants should break at the top of the foot or shoe. While Capri pants and their fashion cousins that come in assorted lengths from mid-calf to ankle are the latest trend, they are out of place in the conservative business environment.

Blouses and sweaters provide color and variety to woman's clothing, but they should be appealing rather than revealing. Inappropriate necklines and waistlines can give the wrong impression.

Women need to wear hose in the business world. Neutral or flesh-tone stockings are the best choices. Never wear dark hose with light-colored clothing or shoes. Keep an extra pair of stockings in your desk drawer unless the hosiery store is next door or just down the street from the office.

Faces, not feet, should be the focal point in business so chose conservative shoes. A low heel is more professional than flats or high heels. In spite of current fashion and the sandal rage, open-toed or backless shoes are not office attire. Not only are sandals a safety hazard, they suggest a certain official agenda.

When it comes to accessories and jewelry, less is once again more. Keep it simple: one ring per hand, one earring per ear. Accessories should reflect your personality, not diminish your credibility.

Business attire is different from weekend and evening wear. Investing in a good business wardrobe is an investment in your professional future. For those who think it's not what you wear but who you are that creates success, give that some more thought. Business skills and experience count, but so does personal appearance and that all-important first impression.

© 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights in all media reserved.

Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com

Decorating For Real People
© LaJoyce Kerns of www.decorate-bedrooms-for-less.com

I spent a recent weekend curled up with a stack of decorating magazines. I read them cover to cover - usually back to front, but that's the way I read most magazines and newspapers. I studied each photograph and tried to determine the particular design concept that was being presented. I looked at the number and placement of accessories, how and where arrangements of items were hung on the walls, choices of color and texture, and flooring selections. Each photo was scrutinized in the minutest detail. At some point I started to wonder for whom these absolutely gorgeous rooms were designed.

Bedside tables held no alarm clocks or clock radios. While there was usually an abundance of decorative items, there were no tissue boxes or eyeglass cases. Dressers displayed beautifully arranged floral creations and perhaps a cut glass perfume bottle or two, with ornamental stoppers. No jewelry boxes, no lotion bottles, none of the everyday stuff of life. I don't know about you but I want a telephone at the side of my bed. And someplace handy for the TV remote.

And the bathrooms! Don't even get me started on the bathrooms! Do the users of these bathrooms ever need to replace the toilet paper or the hand soap? Do they have their hair done weekly (maybe daily?) at beauty- or barber-shops and thus have no need of shampoo and conditioner bottles? Toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss? The men don't have to shave and the women have no need of makeup? Streamlining and organization can only take you so far. Sooner or later you need a place for feminine supplies, room deodorizers, and the extra cotton balls and swabs that don't fit into the pretty little designer containers. And I can't be the only person who thinks that a plunger should be stored someplace handy to the location of possible need.

No cords for the lamps, no tangle of wires for the home office computer system. One photograph featured an elegant "work space" with a large bouquet of flowers drooping fetchingly over the printer. I could imagine spent blossoms dropping into the works, and I couldn't imagine how to open the paper tray without knocking the vase over. I suppose the person who would work at such a desk would have no need of a mouse pad, paper clips, or a pile of sticky notes. I wish I could work like that.

I want to know what the rooms in the photographs look like a week later. Are the same three Granny Smith apples still in perfect position on the glass-topped table? Is the fringe on the cashmere afghan still draped just so over the arm of the rocking chair in the baby's room? Does the kitchen counter look bare without the tureen of soup and the matching soup bowls? I mean, the soup was eaten, wasn't it? Am I losing my perspective here?

Show me a playroom after the children have been forced to put away the toys. I'll bet there are no cunning arrangements of stuffed animals having tea, and the blocks aren't stacked into just-right pyramids with one block placed in front and a little to the side. The pillows are all over the room and the bedspread is trailing onto the floor. That's real.

I realize that the decorating magazines present rooms and arrangements that are idealized and stylized. They are intended to give our imaginations a jumping-off point; we are meant to adapt their ideas to our own needs. They do a wonderful job and I will continue to peruse the glossy pages of each publication. Occasionally, however, I'd appreciate a view of a real room, spiffed up for company, perhaps, but real. I want to be able to imagine waking up to the clock radio, to see myself sitting at the computer and actually getting some work done, to know where I would store the supply of makeup without which I cannot face the world. I want to think that I could actually live in the room. Isn't that the point of the whole exercise? Don't we all want comfortable homes that suit our life styles, organized and better looking, maybe, but still us?

Go take a look at the pictures in a decorating magazine. See if you agree with me. I think I'm going to go clean out a couple of drawers and straighten a bookcase shelf or two. It won't end up picture perfect, but it will be real.


LaJoyce Kerns is the creator of the website: www.decorate-bedrooms-for-less.com. She provides tips, ideas and techniques on decorating bedrooms for real people. LaJoyce believes that you can achieve beautiful results without breaking the budget.

How to care for pearls

Yan Berry

Pearls are delicate and soft gems compared with other gemstones. They need extra gentle care. Here is a guide to pearl care.

� Clean - wipe pearls regularly and gently with a soft cloth moistened with water. Pearls can absorb perfume, skin oils and dirt easily. Do not clean pearls with detergents and don't soak pearls in water.

� Protect - avoid temperature extremes and chemicals such as vinegar, alcohol and hair spray. They can damage pearl surfaces.

� Wear - put on pearls after you have applied makeup and hair spray.

� Store - pearls can be scratched easily. They should be stored in a soft place such as a velvet box or a satin pouch. Avoid putting pearls next to diamond or gemstones jewelry.

� Restring - for a frequently worn pearl necklace, it is recommended to restring the necklace once every one or two years since silk thread may get weakened over time.



Mrs. Berry is a pearl expert. She is also the founder of Premium Pearl, a leading online provider of high quality pearl jewelry.

The History of Bracelets
Sher Matsen

Bracelet popularity dates back to the Roman times and continues today.
Roman bracelets shared many of the design patterns of necklaces and earrings from that era. The ever popular ball earrings from that era were nicely matched with a ball style bracelet. Engraved bangles and snake bracelets were very popular during Roman times. Bracelets made of twisted coil with lion head ends were common place, as were the two part bracelets ending with a pair of lion heads. The Heracles knot bracelet is recognized as a Roman era piece. The Roman's were very creative in the designing of their jewelry. However they still borrowed from Greek motifs. Palmettos, fleeing dogs and acanthus leaves, all of Greek origin, were often seen in the designing of Roman jewelry.

Stones and glass were often used in Roman bracelets. . Gem stones were commonly found set in eyes. Open bands were cut to represent a row of ivy and entwined with pearls. Many of the leaf and berry bracelets were heavily adorned with decorative glass. The wealthier women could be seen wearing bracelets layered in bezel set emeralds.

During the Gerogiian times bracelets remained popular. Paris jewelers were known for their gold bracelets set with pearl edging. After the 1820s coral became the "in" fashion statement, so bracelets and other jewelry were heavily set with coral.

During the Gerogiian time it was very fashionable to wear many bracelets at once, including wide ribbon gold mesh bracelets, and silk ribbon bracelets. Gem and Diamond bracelets were designed in geometric patterns. Gold was heavily used during this era.

The Victorian era brought changes to the fashions of women, including jewelry styles. Earrings grew long and dangled, bracelets became rigid and were normally worn in pairs. The buckle bracelet became very fashionable.

The jewelry of the Victorian era expressed sentiment, and bracelets were no exception. Bracelets would contain lockets or charms with pictures or hair of a loved one, and engravings were common

Early Victorian jewelry enjoyed some mystic with hidden meanings being popular. The acrostic bracelets where the first letter of each gemstone spelled a word of friendship were very popular. For example a bracelet set with Lapis, Opal, Vermeil [hessonite garnet] and Emerald would spell Love.

The Art Nouveau period once again saw changes to fashion and jewelry. Chameleons and serpents entwined themselves around bracelets. The mystical Egyptian scarab was found on bracelets and rings. Other popular creatures included dragonflies, butterflies, bees, peacocks, swans, and even bats. This was a very figural period attached to nature.
If jewelry did not depict creatures it depicted flower blossoms or flower buds.

From 1910 to 1939 women's fashions saw sleeveless or short sleeve dresses appear. The result was flexible bracelets and bangles worn on the upper arm. These arm bracelets were often adorned with gemstones or diamonds.
From 1940 to 1949 US designers were greatly influenced by the designs from the French house of Van Cleef & Arpels. Bracelets with ribbon of hexagon lines centered on fine gemstones fastened with heavy clasps became very vogue.

From 1950 to 1960 daytime saw simpler lines for not only gold bracelets but necklaces as well. Gold mesh or twisted wire bracelets were very popular.

From 1960 to 1970 bracelets became more flexible and were often set with gems. Bangles on the other hand became more rigid and were often seen set with random diamond placements.

From 1970 to 1979 bracelets were flexible and often set with tiny baguettes. Delicate and dainty bracelets were vogue.

From the 1980s to now bracelet fashions have been mixed and varied. Bracelet styles have become more of an individual fashion statement than a trend. Gold has always remained popular as have gems, however sterling silver has become very popular and recognized for its versatility and wearability at affordable pricing. In the last few years we've also seen an increase in demand for titanium bracelets.
Today a women's fashion statement is about her! What she likes, what she feels good in. So your bracelet wardrobe can be what ever you want. Wear a dainty gem set gold bracelet or an armful of clunky bracelets, which is very vogue this season.

Your fashion statement is about who you are, so feel free to be you!



© 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.

The Race for Number Eight

Ted Bauer

In any type of normal world, the race for the No. 8 seed in either Conference wouldn't matter at all, save for adding some interest to the final third of the season. In the East, the No. 8 crew will probably draw the Miami Heat in round one, facing off against the inside-outside twosome of Shaq and D-Wade, who are poised to bring a big golden trophy to South Beach. It won't be pretty.

The picture's a bit different in the West, though --- the battle for the No. 8 slot is a tighter affair, and there's interest from close NBA watchers. Granted, the last team in draws either the Spurs or the Suns, and both are going to be hard to knock off. But --- let's say Steve Nash's injuries continue to nag at him. Let's also take into account that playoff basketball slows down and focuses on half-court sets. The Suns suddenly seem beatable, right? The Spurs are a bit tougher --- they thrive in half-court sets, and they're the definition of consistent.

Still, let's say the Lakers get the No. 8 seed --- a possibility we'll investigate. The Lake Show has reached 4 of the last 5 Finals --- granted, with a vastly different chemistry. But Kobe is still a rare player. Let's say Minnesota gets in just under the line --- they were the No. 1 seed last year, and possess arguably the league's most game-altering player in Kevin Garnett. And if the Nuggets --- a young, eccentric mix of quality players --- get the nod, they might have enough firepower to run a full series with either San Antonio or Phoenix.

Since the No. 8 seed in the West could, theoretically, knock off a potential No. 1, we decided to investigate who's most likely to come out as No. 8 in late April. We evaluated only the Lakers, T-Wolves, and Nuggets, because let's be honest --- as good as the Clippers have played this year, do you honestly see them anywhere near the NBA Playoffs? We thought so.

Each team is assigned 3 (highest), 2, or 1 (lowest) points in four different categories: Personnel, Coaching, Remaining Schedule, and Intangibles. Scientific, no?

Personnel:
The Lakers have Kobe, who is arguably the best player in the game. He's struggled without a presence in the middle (no offense to Chris Mihm-), and there's serious strains on his image following the rape trial and tumultuous breakup of the championship run Lakers. Beyond Mr. Bryant, though, Los Angeles doesn't have much. Caron Butler was promising as a rookie, but hasn't done a ton since then. Lamar Odom is the second key to this team --- he needs to play at the level he's capable of playing at, and he hasn't been doing that. He goes in the tank more than Vince Carter claims he went in the tank in Canada, especially against higher-level foes.

The Timberwolves have an amazing team on paper. Garnett, the reigning MVP, can beat you every which way. Sam Cassell is an experienced, showstopper point guard, and Latrell Sprewell can still score in buckets. Wally World gets injured, sure, but he's got game. The problem is, the entire team has underachieved this year, which creates a need for big games from Trenton Hassell and others. That shouldn't be necessary given this squad, especially when Sprewell is playing for 14 million per (even though he's apparently below the poverty line).

The Nuggets are good all-around. We're still waiting for Camby to tear something, and Nene has been on the injured list since Valentine's Day. Carmelo Anthony has slumped a bit in his sophomore campaign, and he doesn't play defense much at all. Earl Boykins has become a star here, regularly pacing the team in scoring, and Andre Miller --- who must be with his 19th NBA team by now --- seems to have acquired the poise of a true floor general, leading this team pretty well on most nights. K-Mart has been energized by the recent hire of George Karl.

Points: Nuggets 3, T-Wolves 2, Lakers 1

Coaching:
Who's Frank Hamblen? He's not Rudy T. He's not Coach K. He's not Phil Jackson. In sum, he's probably not good enough.

Kevin McHale probably shouldn't have pulled the plug so soon on Flip Saunders. Saunders was a great coach, and a playoff upset this year would have re-invigorated his team. Now, McHale's got himself on the bench. Let's consider other 1980s Celtics as coaches --- ML Carr, Danny Ainge, Larry Bird. Moderate successes, yes, but are any still coaching? There's a reason why- eventually, they all underachieved. Putting an underachiever with a group of underachievers probably isn't the best mix-

George Karl is a savvy veteran coach. You can say all you want about his conspicuous lack of jewelry, but he's won 60 games twice. The Nuggets have never won 60 games. The Nuggets have been on fire since he got the job from Michael Cooper by way of Jeff Bzedlik, recently winning six in a row. 'Melo's game is more diverse, more guys are getting quality minutes, and the team seems to play with a confidence and unity previously lacking. Karl was the right addition here, even counting rumors that he might be looking to ship Anthony away for his fear of playing tight defense.

Points: Nuggets 3, T-Wolves 2, Lakers 1

Remaining Schedule:

The Lakers, who are 20-11 at Staples Center, play only 10 of their remaining 23 games at home. In addition, they go on a road trip next week which features games at Dallas, Washington, Philadelphia, Miami, and Indiana. They end the season with relative cream puffs Golden State and Portland, but play three consecutive games right before that against Phoenix, Sacramento, and Dallas. All of those games are at home, but are still tough draws.

The Timberwolves, only 17-14 at home this year, play only 9 of their remaining games at Target Center, and their last two home games are against Seattle (on pace for 59 wins) and San Antonio (on pace to win the West). In addition, they have road games at Phoenix, San Antonio, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Dallas sprinkled throughout their final month and a half.

The Nuggets are 18-9 at Pepsi Center this year, and play 14 of their final 23 contests at home. In the final month, they do travel to Minneapolis, but they also get 2 games against the Hornets --- the worst team in the league --- and also play Portland and Golden State, both in the Mile High City. The Nuggets also draw the Grizzlies twice in the final three weeks. While the Grizz are playoff-bound themselves, it's a favorable match-up for a streaking Denver squad.

Points: Nuggets 3, Lakers 2, Timberwolves 1

Intangibles
Kobe needs to reach the playoffs as a No. 8 seed, score 50 points every night, and off the No. 1 team in the West. In some ways, it would help restore his credibility and erase notions he can't do it without Shaq. Also, it might help Frank Hamblen not become an assistant again next year.

The Timberwolves need to prove their 2003-2004 campaign was no joke, and some of their contract year players could benefit from the extra playing time and bigger stage of the playoffs.

The Nuggets are young, and aren't expected to do much besides make the playoffs. They have a determined team and a determined coach, but aside from Anthony keeping pace with LeBron (who's probably going to make the playoffs this year), the team doesn't have a ton to prove right now.

Points: Lakers 3, Timberwolves 2, Nuggets 1

The Final Score:
Nuggets 10, Timberwolves 7, Lakers 7

Karl's bunch is streaking, all right --- straight into a first-round date with the best of the West.

Ted Bauer writes for http://www.hoopsavenue.com

Does Your Copy Look "Fake" To the Search Engines?
Karon Thackston

by Karon Thackston © 2004
http://www.copywritingcourse.com/keyword

From the early days of search engine optimization, keywords and content have always been vital to achieving your goals. Starting back in the days when we used to shove every slightly relevant keyword into our Meta tags, it has been obvious that search engines love text. The more advanced the engines have gotten over the years, the more complex and sophisticated many writers have gotten with their search engine copywriting.

Supposed formulas, saturation levels, and other mysterious concoctions have been developed to help us outsmart the engines. However, what we should have been doing all along was writing for the visitor first and the engines second. Why? Because creating a site that's loved by visitors is a prime factor in linking, ranking, and marketing as a whole. As the engines make great strides with more personalized and efficient searches (such as semantic search) natural search engine optimization writing is even more important.

Rather than just indexing the copy on your site, engines are learning to "understand" what a page is about. The ironic thing is, as the search engines get more complex the "formula" for SEO copywriting is actually getting more simple.

Write Naturally

In the future, search engines will be looking for Web pages that reflect a natural tone with the copy. Is it obvious that keyphrases are being shoved in wherever possible? Does every headline/sub-head, image tag, and comment tag have a keyphrase included? Does the copy sound fake, unnatural, and stiff? If so, then spiders and bots will recognize it and possibly flag it as something to be wary of.

Take a look at this lovely piece of copy I found while surfing just the other day. (I've replaced the keyphrases used in the original copy with the word "wherever" so as not to embarrass the site owner.)

Wherever Holiday Rentals

Holiday rentals in Wherever for holidays in Wherever

Wherever holiday rentals directly from the owners. Rent a holiday villa in Wherever or perhaps a 2-6 bedroom apartment in Wherever. Wherever vacation rentals for holidays in Wherever are easily located by searching the Wherever Holiday website. Wherever Holiday Rentals offer holiday apartments in Wherever and holiday villas.

Find accommodation in Wherever by clicking on the Wherever map or the active links. You will then see holiday rental apartments, villas and townhouses in stunning Wherever accommodation.

Let's suppose someone walked into your travel agency and asked for help. You would most likely ask what they were looking for. They would reply, "Holiday rentals in Wherever. What can you show me?" Would you honestly take off on the spiel above? Can you see yourself talking to a real client face-to-face and saying, "We offer Wherever holiday rentals in Wherever and can find you many apartments, villas, and houses in Wherever"? I don't think so.

Tips for Writing In Natural Language

1) Vary your keywords/phrases. For example, if a keyphrase you particularly want to target is "14k gold jewelry" consider also using keyphrases like "14k gold watches" or "gold wedding bands" or others along those lines. This will give you a variety of phrases within your copy.

2) Read it out loud. When you read your copy out loud you'll get a better sense of whether it sounds unnatural. If you wouldn't say, "We make 14k gold jewelry and have made 14k gold jewelry for 10 years. If you need 14k gold jewelry just view our catalog" out loud, then don't put it in your copy, either.

3) Break up keyphrases. As searchers get more knowledgeable about finding what they want in the engines, they use longer and longer search queries some of which just don't make any sense. For instance, I recently had to use the phrase "real estate Pittsburg downtown" when writing a page of SEO copy. Since this search string was not easily worked in as that exact phrase, I broke it up. One sentence I used it in said: "When looking for commercial real estate in Pittsburg check the downtown listings first for exceptional locations and prices." The words are still in the same order with minor breaks in between. When you can't use a phrase "as is" this is a very viable alternative.

Keep in mind the direction search engine optimization is taking. The closer you can get to writing in natural language, the better off you'll be. It only makes sense to create a site now that will last through the long haul. Especially when that site will have a better chance of favorably appealing to the engines and your visitors.



Karon is author of "How To Increase Keyword Saturation (Without Destroying the Flow of Your Copy)." Discover the secrets to creating SEO copy with a perfect balance between keywords and natural language. http://www.copywritingcourse.com/keyword

Cut the cost of your wedding in half

Jennifer Holder

So you and hubby have set the date, now what? If you are like most couples these days the financial burden of planning a wedding is rested upon your shoulders and you find yourself worrying about how you will ever be able to afford this major life event.
Believe it or not if done properly your big day can pack a powerful punch without spending thousands of dollars. As long as you are willing to put the thought of an overpriced wedding planner aside and do some of the grunt work yourself, your special day will be one to remember forever.

First of all think about who you know. Do you have a friend who has really great decorating sense? A cousin who is taking photography classes? If you sit down and think about who you know and what types of things they excel at you will be surprised at how quickly your wedding bill will shrink. Forget hiring expensive caterers and photographers. All it takes is a simple phone call and I would bet money that the person on the other end would be more than happy to help in any way they can. While planning my wedding I knew a friend of a friend who bakes cakes out of her home for a little extra cash. I got in touch with her and I was able to get a very beautiful cake made exactly how I wanted it for under $150.00.

Consider having a small intimate reception at your home or someone else's home. The days of having a huge stuffy reception at a hall or overpriced ballroom are over. People like to be comfortable and cozy and surrounded by people that they love. The fact is, the less people you invite the less expensive the affair is going to be. When making your guest list consider crossing off the second cousin you haven't seen in 5 years or the Aunt that lives on the other side of the country. Your wedding day isn't about how many people you can cram into a room. It is about being with the people you love and care about the most. You can shave thousands of dollars off of your bill by checking your guest list twice.

Once you have decided on a theme for your big event it is time to go invitation shopping. Resist the urge to order all of those thick wedding catalogs that sell invitations and accessories and head on over to E-Bay. There are some very talented people out there that earn a living on E-Bay creating custom made wedding invitations at a fraction of the cost. For my wedding I was able to get my invitations, response cards, reception cards and all envelopes for just over $50.00 with shipping and handling. They were made to my specifications and turned out beautiful. Now if you are feeling creative and you have the time you can also try making them yourself. There are invitation kits at craft stores that are very inexpensive. You can save hundreds of dollars by doing it this way.

Serve appetizers and Champaign instead of a 5 course meal and an open bar and save thousands. Your guests will be just as happy with some shrimp cocktails and crab cakes as they would the traditional chicken & pasta with a salad on the side. And you and your fianc� will save a ton of money! Better yet do you know someone who loves to cook?

Flowers are a very important part of any wedding and whether you want real or artificial you want them to look nice. I found a lady on the internet that makes artificial wedding bouquets at a very reasonable price. What was great about her arrangements was the flowers she used were not the fake looking silk flowers you find in a craft store. They were made with latex and looked, felt and even moved like they were real. So instead of paying over $100 dollars on a real call-lily bridal bouquet I paid approx $45. And the best part is that I get to keep them forever. If you have your heart set on real flowers then buy wholesale and make them yourself. You do not have to be a florist to make a beautiful arrangement. Check online to find instructions on how to make bouquets or keep it simple and just carry a bunch of lily's or roses.

I mentioned E-Bay earlier and I am going to mention it again because you can save big time by purchasing your favors, supplies, matchbooks, napkins and any other accessories you may need from reputable sellers there. Most of my items including my bridesmaid's jewelry, my tiara, veil etc were bought there and I saved a mint! Bridal boutiques and specialty shops are so overpriced. Think about it, would you rather pay $50 for personalized beverage napkins or $10?

Don't be afraid to ask for help either, your friends and families are probably just as excited as you are about your upcoming wedding. You would be surprised at how much you can save by investing some time and research into planning your wedding day and delegating small tasks to others.


Jennifer Holder is a new bride and also an Ind. Avon Rep. She can be contacted by email at avonjen@yahoo.com or by visiting her website at http://www.youravon.com/jenniferholder

The faith of the children of Lir
Paul Gibney

This haunting story has inspired Celtic jewelry makers for many years now as the swan theme embodies traditional Celtic designs and Celtic symbols.

A long time ago in ancient Ireland lived an Irish Chieftain named Lir. He was married to Aobh daughter of King Bodhbh (also called Bov the Red) of Lough Dergh. They had four beautiful children; Fionnula, Aodh, Fiachra and Conn. Unfortunately Aobh died giving birth and Lir was devastated with grief.
When King Bodhbh heard of Lir's loss he offered another one of his daughters to Lir in marriage. Lir choose Aoife as his new wife and stepmother to his children. At first, all when well with the marriage, Lir doted on his four children. Soon Aoife became intensely jealous of her stepchildren. She even pretended to be sick for a whole year in order to look for special attention. One day Aoife told the children that they we going with her to visit there Grandfather King Bodhbh, as they had done many times before. Along the way they stopped at Lough Dairbhreach (lake of the oaks) and Aoife ordered the children to wash themselves in the lough. Once they were in the water, Aoife cast a magic spell turning the four children of Lir into beautiful white swans. Fionnuala cursed her but implored her to put some limits on the spell. Aoife regretting what she had done agreed to allow them keep their beautiful singing voices. But the spell still imposed a harsh sentence on the swan children. They were to spend 300 years on Lough Dairbhreach, 300 years in the Straits of Moyle and the final 300 years at Erris. They spell would only be broken when they heard the first bells of Christianity and when a King from the north marries a Princess from the south.
When King Bodhbh found out what Aoife had done to the children of Lir, using a Druids rod he turned her into a "Witch of the air". As the legend goes Aoife still blows in the howling wind and her screams can be heard when a storm blows.
Over the years Lir and many others continued to visit the swan children. They listened to their enchanting, magical singing that was said to calm even the most savage beast.
Over the 900 years of the spell they faced extremely harsh weather conditions. Near the end they traveled to Inish Gluaire where they first heard the Christian bells and met a Christian missionary called St. Mochaomhog. They told him of their plight and that they were the children of Lir. At this time a King from the north King Lairgnean was due to wed Deach, a daughter of the southern Muster King. King Lairgnean had heard of the swan's lovely singing voices and wanted to give them to his wife as a wedding present. But while King Lairgnean was trying to capture the swans he touched one of them and the spell was broken. The swans turned back into their human form, but they were very old and
Withered looking. Fionnula the oldest asked St. Mochaomhog to baptize them and soon after they died. They were buried the same way they lived, together. Later that night St. Mochaomhog dreamed that he saw four beautiful white swans flying over the sea straight up to heaven.
This beautiful Celtic myth has inspired Irish gifts makers over the years to create wonderful works of art. Many Irish jewelry manufactures have incorporated the 4 swan theme into many stunning pieces of children of Lir jewelry.


Paul Gibney is a co-founder of http://www.claddaghstore.com one of Ireland largest online Celtic Jewelry Stores.

Selecting the perfect gift for her

Janett Colon

Selecting the perfect gift for her"

Do you find it difficult to find that perfect gift for her?
Are you worried that she might not like the gift you select?

If you are looking for an easier way to select that perfect romantic gift for the man you love, then read on ..

You will not only discover that she will love your gift, but you will also make her realize that she will enjoy and appreciate your gift wholeheartedly..

You're probably asking yourself "How can I accomplish that, most times when i give her a gift, it goes unappreciated"

Well let me give you 3 things that women want and desire as gifts from the men they love...

1. They want to receive love, desire, passion & appreciation.

2. They want to receive understanding and acceptance for who they are..

3. They want to receive your joy and happiness, knowing that she makes you happy.

Women show their love and appreciation through actions, when given all of the above. All those special occasions when we desperately can't decide on what to give the women we love, we think they'll be happy and content receiving the material gifts. Of course, they would love you and be happy when receiving the jewelry, designer fragrances, intimate apparel, candles, lovemake books or whatever the gift.
The fact of the matter is they most desire and will appreciate a gift given from the heart, your love at full blast !!!!

Here are some ideas ...

1. The day of the special occasion, make sure that you tell her or write it down on a piece of paper, how lucky you are too have her in your life..

2. Tell her that she is the hottest, sexiest, most attractive, gorgeous, sweetest person in the world...(you can choose your own words, make sure that you follow up with a big wet smooch attesting to those words)

3. Plan to make this day special, let her know that you will do whatever it takes to make this day one she will always remember. Ask her beforehand if she had one wish what would it be, then try to follow up with it.
Be creative it is the little things that count..

If you make this a priority in giving her the gift that she will love and most desires, showing your appreciation for her own existence, I guarantee you that she will fall head over heels, with whatever material gift you wish to give her .. Which of course, women always love to receive precious gifts from the man they love...

So whatever material gift you decide to give her on the special occasion whether it be jewelry, designer fragrances, intimate apparel, wine gift baskets, sex drive enhancers, love make books, love music, or maybe even romantic lingerie, know that if you initially give her a gift of love..
She will love your gift..

Share the love this season.. love is a beautiful thing..

Best wishes,

Janett Colon, Believes that people can discover true happiness and meaningful lives, through sharing and
Experiencing true intimacy with our inner selves and with the ones we love. Offering articles & tips and
Free newsletter to improve romance, and better our lives.
Webmaster/owner of www.a-gift-of-love.com



Janett Colon, Believes that people can discover true happiness and meaningful lives, through sharing and communicating
and experiencing true intimacy with our inner selves and with the ones we love. Offering articles & tips and
Free newsletter to improve romance, and better our lives. please visit
www.a-gift-of-love.com



What exactly is "Outsider Art"?
Laura Thykeson of Ice Originals II

The term, "Outsider Art", leaves some people cold, as they think it refers to skinny, skate-boarding, knit cap wearing graffiti artists. In all acutality, it DOES include those kids, as well as many other "types" of people in the world.

Outsider Art is a term used to describe art in any form that is produced in a raw, untrained way. The guy in Alabama that does chainsaw carvings is an Outsider Artist, just as the little old lady in Texas, who has never been trained in any artistic way, might produce her own form of abstract expressionism.

As a general rule, most real Outsider Artists are very eccentric, tend to suffer from emotional problems, create art with traditional mediums used in very untraditional ways, and are prone to surround themselves with their creations as a buffer zone against the rest of the world.

Outsider Artists create what they do because they are compelled to create something that expresses their emotions, just as any formally trained artist does. The creative drive comes from the same place, it is just totally undisciplined, and therefore, often very unorthodox.

There are now several museum that have opened, that are devoted totally to Ousider Art. There are now galleries and agents that are looking for Outsider Artists to represent, which, in my own personal opinion, kind of makes the term an oxymoron. How can you be an "Outsider" when you are now on the "inside"?? Food for thought, I suppose. Question for the day would be-"At what point does one stop being an "Oustider Artist" and become a "mainstream" artist"?

You can view our online Outsider Art at
Ice Originals II
Collectibles, Jewelry and Music
http://www.tias.com/stores/iceorig

Ice Originals Toonz-
Music in all formats
http://iceorig.com

Ice Originals - Inside Out!!!
http://www.iceoriginals.faithweb.com

Owner of "Ice Originals II - Vintage Collectibles, Music and Jewelry", on the web, as well as a practicing artist for the last 15 years. She is an advocate for the "unknown" Artist and enjoys promoting new Artists and their works. She is married to an "Outsider Artist", and lives in Central Texas.

How to Prepare your Mind/Body to Give Great Speeches

Sandra Schrift

Publishing Guidelines: You are welcome to publish this
article in its entirety, electronically, or in print fre*e
of charge, as long as you include my full signature file
for ezines, and my Web site address(http://www.schrift.com)
in hyperlink for other sites. Please send a courtesy link
or email where you publish to sandra@schrift.com Thank you.
___________________________________________________________

TITLE: How to Prepare your Mind/Body to Give Great Speeches
AUTHOR: Sandra Schrift
CONTACT: sandra@schrift.com
COPYRIGHT: ©2004 by Sandra Schrift. All rights reserved
___________________________________________________________

How to Prepare your Mind/Body to Give Great Speeches

Sure you have catecholamines - all speakers do. (including
Sir Winston Churchill and Presidents Kennedy, Carter, and
Reagan.) Those are the chemicals that make you sweat, make
your heart beat fast and make your hands shake. Get rid of
those chemical and psychological reactions by becoming
message-centered and audience-centered, not self-centered.

1 Replace fear and negative noise with positive
affirmations. Create new beliefs that nurture you and
support you with new ways of thinking. The New Adult You!
example: "I am well prepared, and the audience wants me to
succeed."

2. Do a quiet meditation, visualization, or exercise before
you speak. Breathe deeply. Deep breathing sends a message to
your brain that you have nothing to fear. It calms you
down.

3 Who cares if you're nervous? Researchers have found that
most people report noticing little or no anxiety in a
speaker. If you are thoroughly prepared, your internal
nervousness seldom shows. Prepare 150%.

4.Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Talk out loud, and walk
around while you practice. Use the same physical energy you
plan to use on the day of your presentation.

The Coach sez. . . practice in front of your mirror
.Practice in the car. If you can concentrate while driving,
you will be able to pull it from your unconscious when are
you in front of the group. Make your points sound
spontaneous and conversational.

5. Exercise is an antidote to stress. Arrive early and take
a brisk walk for at least five minutes. If it is raining or
snowing outside, you can still do some body stretches.

6. Abstain from caffeine and alcohol before you speak. You
don't need more jitters. Always wear your favorite outfit
and use attractive colors. Women, go simple on the jewelry.
Avoid too much black and white.

7. For trembling hands, place your hands on the side of your
chair, and, count to 10 as you try to lift the seat. This is
an isometric exercise that works and nobody will notice you
doing it.

8. Don't be perfect. Give yourself permission to make
mistakes. No one is perfect in real life. Get the
butterflies in your stomach to fly in formation. That's how
you convert your stress into speaking power!

9. Reduce your nervousness by taking several deep breaths
immediately
before you 're introduced. And for you chocoholics, eat some
chocolate to
relax your vocal chords.

11 If you experience dry mouth, chew your tongue to increase
saliva flow. Singers do this. Close your lips and bite down
on the entire surface. Always have a glass of tepid (not
cold) water nearby.

12 Focus on a friendly face in the audience. Pretend you are
having a conversation, rather than giving a speech. Just be
yourself.

13 The Coach sez. . .Most of all, enjoy yourself and have
fun. SMILE. After all, aren't you glad to be there? The
sign of a mature adult is one who does not take himself too
seriously.

14 Here is a vocal warm-up exercise used at the Ryal Academy
of Dramatic Arts in London.
Say:PaPaPaPa, BaBaBaBa, TaTaTaTa, DaDaDaDa, KaKaKaKa,
GaGaGaGa Then do it backwards. (from Robert and Rande
Gedaliah)

Get more speaking skills at our "Summer Sizzle" webpage:
http://www.schrift.com/summer_sizzle.htm


Sandra Schrift 13 year speaker bureau owner and career
coach to emerging and veteran public speakers who want to
"grow" a profitable speaking business. I also work with
business professionals and organizations who want to
master their presentations.
To find out How to Become a Highly Paid Professional
Speaker, go to http://www.schrift.com/ProfessionalSpeaker/
Join complimentary bi-weekly Monday Morning Mindfulness
ezine http://www.schrift.com/monday.htm


ONLINE PHOTO SHARING: NOT JUST FOR FAMILY AND VACATION PHOTOS
Valerie Goettsch

You may have joined the photo-sharing craze to share your family vacation photos, but have you thought about other uses for photo sharing?

Here are just a few ideas:

Scrapbooking:
Show off your creative projects. You can design scrapbook pages and enhance them with clipart using software like Paint Shop Photo Album or FotoFinish and then upload them to a photo sharing site for everyone to enjoy.

Hobbies:
Perhaps you belong to a cross-stitching club or the other end of the spectrum, a motorcycle or classic car club. You can share your best cross-stitch projects or pictures of you with your Harley or '57 Chevy with other club members.

Class Reunions:
What better way to share reunion photos with former class members across the miles than in an online photo album, so all can view and reminisce.

Arts and Crafts Portfolio:
Do you design jewelry, paint or make woodcarvings or other crafts to sell? A digital photo gallery is a great way to show off your pieces, and you can add your own captions, prices, etc.

Genealogy:
If you are in charge of recording your family's history, organize old family photos in a digital album to share with distant family members. Chances are, old photos will need some repair for cracks, fading, spots, etc. You can easily repair photos yourself using photo software like Photoshop Elements or Paint Shop Pro.

School Events:
Create an online album for pictures of football or basketball games, proms, graduation parties and other school events to share with classmates.

Weddings:
You can design an elegant photo album and let those who couldn't attend the wedding see the bride walk down the aisle and "virtually" experience the conga line at the reception. Weddings were made for photo sharing!

Rubber Stamping Designs:
A photo gallery of your rubber stamp creations is a great way to showcase them for fellow stamp artists.

Okay, you get the picture. Use your imagination and you'll find dozens of opportunities for sharing your photos.

PHOTO SHARING SITES AND SOFTWARE
The next step is how do you do it? That's easy too. With the digital camera craze comes a proliferation of photo sharing sites and software. The top sites include Ofoto, Shutterfly and Snapfish, which give you simple, free software so you can make basic edits such as adjust the contrast, crop and remove red-eye. You can quickly upload your images to their website and put photos in different albums, name the albums and add captions. Then you just email your friends the link to your album. The good news is it's free; the down side is that some sites limit the number of photos you can share. These sites, of course, will also print your photos for as little as 22 cents each and mail them to you; those who view your albums can also order prints.

There are some great services dedicated to photo sharing that offer unlimited photo storage space for a nominal fee. These include Pixagogo, which is a web-based service for sharing, organizing and storing your digital photos inside instant albums that can be viewed by anyone you want. It's an easy way to share photos with others, and an excellent means of backing up valuable photos or publishing illustrations on a web site or a market place. For a $5 monthly membership fee, you get unlimited secure storage of your original images of any size for as long as you want. Pixagogo's features include easy drag & drop photo uploading, the ability to create elegant online albums and full screen slide shows, share selected album links with family and friends via a simple email link, and a self-organizing photo timeline. You can also order prints on Fuji paper at competitive prices.

There are also several inexpensive software applications for photo sharing on the web, including FotoFinish and the SendPix sharing feature of ACDSee 6.0. With both programs you can email photos directly from the application at sizes you specify. FotoFinish also gives you 20MB of free personal web space to upload and share your albums or individual photos. ACDSee lets you share up to 50 photos in an unlimited number of albums on their server at no charge for up to 30 days. It also has an HTML photo album generator so you can create web page photo albums to upload to your own site.

Whatever method you choose, sharing your pics on the net is a great timesaver with lots of opportunity for creativity.


Valerie Goettsch publishes the digital photography website http://www.digitalphotos101.com featuring reviews of photo editing and album software and digital photo printing services.

Jewelry and the Darkside: Fashionable Gothic Jewelry

Sam Serio

No, by jewelry and the darkside, we are not referring to Darth Vader's dark side of the force. However, the idea of jewelry inspired by Anakin Skywalker, the Sith and his Emperor sure is tantalizing. Here, if you think more about the likes of Morticia Addams of the Addams family, then you're on the right track. Gothic jewelry is the type of jewelry that the likes of her would wear: mysterious, brooding, yet elegant. Viewed this way, jewelry and the darkside certainly can go hand in hand.

Gothic jewelry, or darkside jewelry, as opposed to 'light,' evokes images of the macabre and the preternatural: vampires, the dead and undead, spirits, black magic and the black arts. As such, artisans craft items that would appeal to a person's dark or gothic side. There is an abundance of e-commerce websites and specialty stores whose emphasis is on jewelry and the darkside. In these places, a person will be able to find gothic jewelry such as pentacle pendants, gothic cross necklaces, spider-and-web piercings, and more.

Also known as pagan jewelry, gothic body ornaments are made from many types of materials, but they are typically available in gold, sterling silver and pewter. They may come plain or be encrusted with jewels. Many pieces of gothic jewelry have their roots in esoteric sources, such as signs and symbols used in ancient Egyptian lore or those employed in Celtic rituals. Other pieces of gothic jewelry are timeless icons representing the eerie: coffin-shaped rings, heavily ornate cross brooches, earrings shaped like the heads of howling wolves.

Slave bracelets, also known as handflowers or maille bracelets, are also popular examples of gothic jewelry. These look like chain mail, or pieces of woven metal. They are different from conventional bracelets in that they are worn not just on the wrist, but on practically the whole hand, and their intricate patterns are sure to attract attention. Bib and choker necklaces are also popular gothic accessories. Catalogues of gothic jewelry oftentimes include so-called 'poison' rings or bracelets. These items have a small compartment where the wearer can presumably keep very small or fine materials, such as powder. Maille, chandelier or dangling earrings are also available to complete one's overall look of mystery.

Gothic jewelry is easy to wear and can be used to dress up or dress down. They are easily available and the variety offered is endless. Because they depict arcane symbols and figures, gothic jewelry imparts a sense of mystery and secrecy. Popular among both the young and not-so-young, gothic jewelry may be dark, but not dreary; ornate, but not tawdry. In fact, it is just the opposite: jewelry and the darkside - a hauntingly beautiful combination.


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.

Looking to Start a New Business? Consider the Personalized Products Industry
Nancy Wurtzel

Looking to launch a new consumer products business that makes and markets gifts? Why not consider a niche that has grown dramatically over the past few decades and still shows signs of continued expansion? The market has your name written all over it -- the personalized products industry.

In the U.S. today, there are more than 100,000 businesses selling personalized gift products with annual sales of at least $27 billion, and these numbers are continuing to increase.

Why is the personalized gift market considered such a rapid growth industry? Several forces are at work currently driving the personalization market.

1. The Economy: The U.S. is just coming out of an economy slump and recession. During tough economic times, consumers often look for added value when they make discretionary purchases. For example, when shopping for a gift, price conscious buyers look for a selection that will make an impression and be lasting. Consumers perceive that they are getting both when they purchase a personalized product. In general, buyers are actively seeking personalized gifts, and this activity and interest is moving the industry forward.

2. New Technology: Advances in technology have made a wider variety of products available and much more affordable. For example, machines that personalize towels and clothing once cost thousands of dollars and weigh hundreds of pounds. Now, a much smaller, cleaner, quieter, computer-driven piece of equipment can produce the same quality goods -- but at a fraction of the price. And, if manufacturing upfront costs are less, products become more affordable.

3. Product Selection: Since technology has made production easier and cheaper, there has been an explosion of personalized goods and gifts. Gifts range from the inexpensive and predictable to the upscale and highly innovative. Most gift stores offer some personalized gift selections and there are now many stores, websites and even mail-order catalogs with literally thousands of consumer choices.

4. Stand-Out Gifts: Personalized gifts are memorable. For instance, parents will always remember who gave their newborn a charming personalized picture frame, but can't recall who sent the expensive outfit that baby outgrew in a few weeks. A personalized present is also a great choice for the "person who has everything."

PERSONALIZED HISTORY
The personalized gift market is primarily a U.S. phenomenon. Its roots can be traced back to our early American history when silversmiths practiced their skills by engraving family names or initials on one-of-a-kind silver trays, bowls and jewelry.

As the country expanded westward, saddle and gun makers would occasionally personalize their wares, while wood artisans used their talents to create uniquely decorated trunks with family names or crests.

These early personalized items were always made to order and available only to those who could afford to pay the price -- which was, at that time, a very small percentage of the population.

Not much changed until the late 1950s when mass production brought the "pre-made" personalized gifts to middle America.

Suddenly, every local corner drug store offered displays of inexpensive pencils, key chains and jewelry featuring names like Linda, Mike, Tom, Cindy, Mary and Dave.

However, most of these personalized items were considered cheap imported gifts aimed at kids and teenagers. And, if you had an unusual name, you were out of luck because all these novelty products were pre-made at the factory with the most common names of the day.

While there are still many of these low-ticket items available today, the personalized products industry has grown and evolved over the past forty odd years. Probably the biggest change that has moved the industry forward has been advances in technology.

Lower costs for machinery means that it's now possible to have personalization equipment in decentralized locations rather than one central processing plant. Additionally, personalized gifts that once would take weeks to obtain can now be created in a matter of days or even minutes. Consequently, gifts that once had a long ordering lead time, are now almost impulse buys for today's busy consumer.

Computer-driven technology also has made literally thousands of personalized gift choices in a variety of price ranges available to the consumer.

BUYING AND SELLING
What type of companies sell personalized gifts? Major catalogs, countless ecommerce sites, upscale department stores, specialty boutiques, general dry-goods retail storefronts, drug store chains and thousands of small entrepreneurs.

What types of personalized items are consumers buying? Almost anything can be personalized, so the choices are many.

Just pick up a catalog and you will find robes for adults and kids, fine crystal, quilts, keepsake gifts for newborn babies, expensive gifts to mark a graduation, wedding or anniversary, a variety of clothing and even furniture. Visit a local retail store and you will find stationery, jewelry, wall art, T-shirts, mugs and dinnerware, glasses, picture frames and much more.

Why are these gifts so attractive for so many sellers? Any retailer will agree that a personalized gift means a little more effort up-front, but in the long run fewer returns. Plus, these products often carry a higher price point -- and therefore profits -- making these gifts very attractive.

AMERICANS LOVE PERSONALIZED GIFTS
While you may find some personalized gift items in other countries, you will not see the same wide range of products that are found in the U.S. Why has the personalized gift market thrived here at home?

It's really pretty simple according to those who study consumers. Americans -- young and old alike -- love to see their names on a product because it makes them feel special and unique.

And, American consumers are always looking for products with a slightly different spin, and this, too, is accomplished by purchasing a personalized product.

Faith Popcorn, who studies and reports on nationwide trends, has coined the word "egonomics" to describe the personalized product phenomenon. Other trend forecasters agree that the personalized gift industry is here to stay and will continue steady growth as more products are brought to market in response to consumer demand.


Nancy Wurtzel is the founder and owner of All About Baby, an ecommerce site located at http://www.allbaby.com. All About Baby specializes in personalized and memorable gifts for children as well as interesting and helpful child-related site content. Ms. Wurtzel has over 20 years of marketing and communications experience. She consults with small businesses seeking to enter the marketplace or grow their existing ecommerce business.

Safety Tips For Women!

Sterling Silver & 14kt Gold:� Both will tend to tarnish over time.
-Store all precious metal jewelry in a zip lock bag to protect it. This does not stop the discoloration, but will drastically slow the process.
-Use a polishing cloth as needed for cleaning your jewelry.
��
Jewelry with semi-precious stones and crystals:
-Store all jewelry with semi-precious stones and crystals in a zip lock bag to protect it.
-Check the instructions on your jewelry cleaning solution prior to placing any items with stones in it to be cleaned. Some stones, such as turquoise, and freshwater pearls cannot be placed in most jewelry cleaning solutions.
-Do not wear your jewelry when you are showering or washing dishes.
-Use caution when wearing lotions and perfumes, for they will discolor gems such as turquoise.

Pearls: �Special care should be taken with pearls. They are much more fragile than most gemstones.
-Use caution when using hairspray and perfumes. Let dry completely before donning your pearls.
-Cleaning pearl jewelry: wipe with a clean dry soft cloth after wearing them.
Protect Your Investment - Caring for Your Jewelry
Lisa Jay

Sterling Silver & 14kt Gold:� Both will tend to tarnish over time.
-Store all precious metal jewelry in a zip lock bag to protect it. This does not stop the discoloration, but will drastically slow the process.
-Use a polishing cloth as needed for cleaning your jewelry.
��
Jewelry with semi-precious stones and crystals:
-Store all jewelry with semi-precious stones and crystals in a zip lock bag to protect it.
-Check the instructions on your jewelry cleaning solution prior to placing any items with stones in it to be cleaned. Some stones, such as turquoise, and freshwater pearls cannot be placed in most jewelry cleaning solutions.
-Do not wear your jewelry when you are showering or washing dishes.
-Use caution when wearing lotions and perfumes, for they will discolor gems such as turquoise.

Pearls: �Special care should be taken with pearls. They are much more fragile than most gemstones.
-Use caution when using hairspray and perfumes. Let dry completely before donning your pearls.
-Cleaning pearl jewelry: wipe with a clean dry soft cloth after wearing them.

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.LantanaDesignwear.com/signup_newsletter to receive information on jewelry, fashion and womens issues.

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