The History Of Valentines Day

Writen by Natalie Aranda

Love has many different meanings in every single language but there is a universal traditional day when people express their inner feelings for each other, either love or friendship. Valentine's Day was coined as the exchange day for those with these naturally feelings for others, throughout all cultures.

The origins of Valentine's day are traced back to the Medieval era associated with the Catholic Church feast day, but love and fertility nexus with this particular date falling on February 14 comes from the ancient times of Greece, when the Athens calendar included a period between mid January and mid February called the Gamelion, a month dedicated to the sacred marriage of Zeus and Hera, hence associated with love and fertility.

Lupercalia, the festival of Lupercus, the God of Fertility, was the equivalent in the Roman Empire and taking place on February 15, time of purification rituals. Lupercus was represented as a half-naked man dressed in goatskins. His priests sacrificed goats to the god on this day and after drinking wine, they ran through the Roman streets holding pieces of goat and touching anyone in their run including women in the belief to receive an easy childbirth.

There is no written reference about how Saint Valentine became the romantic love protector, in fact the Catholic martyrologies mention three different Saint Valentines under the date of February 14; a priest in Rome, a bishop of Interamna, and a martyr in the Roman province of Africa, making even more obscure the origins of this celebration.

However, in the 5th century the feast of Saint Valentine was officially decreed to be on February 14 by Pope Gelasius I during the year 496. In a later assumption, this could be just an attempt to supersede pagan holidays like Lupercalia celebrated in Rome until then. Apart from this historical setting, the rest is just legends.

Throughout time, the gift of blooming wild flowers was a common practice to demonstrate romantic love or affection between partners on Valentine's Day. Daisy flowers became a sort of "yes-no" love divination. Today, daisies have their own meaning of innocence and loyal love, associated with the fifth wedding anniversary.

During the 19th century, roses took their place having different meanings according to their color or numbers of flowers given on Valentine's Day. It was during the Victorian century when relics exhumed from the Roman catacombs of Saint Hippolytus were identified with Saint Valentine.

In 1836, the relics were donated by Pope Gregory XVI to the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland, but once again, the obscure origins of Valentines (or Valentinus) and his relics are alleged to lie at the reliquary of Roquemaure in France and in Sankt Stephans Kirche in Vienna.

Instead of an uncertain Saint image, the 19th century associated the figure of the winged Cupid to Saint Valentine's Day, along with and heart-shaped outline cards and paper cuts to be sent with flowers on this day, tradition remains today when a wide array of flowers can be chosen online and delivered anywhere just by placing your order via the internet.

Natalie Aranda is a freelance writer. She writes about family, love and relationship. She enjoyed the experience of florists in Surrey, UK for flower delivery in Northampton, UK.

Christmas Tree Decorating Idea

Writen by Cheri Barlow

When Christmas draws near, children are enchanted by the wonderful gifts soon to be delivered by Santa. Visions of sugarplums are the inspiration for this Christmas tree decorating idea. This holiday fantasyland is sure to delight children of all ages and is designed with Santa's workshop in mind. This tree is trimmed with delicious-looking ornaments. Gingerbread men, garlands, Santas and big red bows fill the branches of this snowy Christmas tree.

Start off with a flocked Christmas tree. Whether you decide to use a real Christmas tree and flock it yourself or to use an already flocked artificial tree makes no difference.

This tree has giant peppermint candies that are made from 1" thick plastic foam. Cut a 6" diameter circle from the foam for each candy. Apply one coat of white gesso to each candy allow to dry. Next, paint the candy white with acrylic paint and allow that to dry. Now, with red paint, paint a pinwheel pattern on each candy. Wrap each candy in cellophane and twist each end like a candy. Tie a green ribbon onto each end.

A lollipop can be made the same way as above. Paint the circles green and allow that to dry. Next, paint swirls of white like a lollipop. Attach a dowel to one end for the lollipop stick and wrap the lollipop part in cellophane.

Make gingerbread cutout cookies using gingerbread shapes and Santa shapes. Make them with large cookie cutters to match the scale of the candies. Decorate cookies with icing and candies. Use a straw to cutout holes in the tops of the cookies prior to baking to allow for hanging. Use ribbons for hanging.

Make garlands with white and green licorice snaps. Also make garlands with caramel popcorn and wind around the tree.

Hang your newly made ornaments onto the tree and wrap with garlands. Either make or purchase red bows with white pokadots and tie the bows to the ends of the branches. The bows should be large enough to keep with the scale of the other ornaments.

This would be a fun project to have the kids help with. Or, it would be just as much fun to surprise the kids with the finished project.

Cheri Barlow http://www.christmastreeshoho.com/trimmingchristmastrees/ http://www.christmastreeshoho.com For more information about Christmas trees, please visit our website.

Planning Your Christmas Party

Writen by Gail Leino

Christmas party planning can be a difficult task regardless of whether you are planning a home or office party. You will undoubtedly spend a lot of your time planning the food but you shouldn't concentrate on the Christmas menus alone, as there are many aspects that will attract and entertain guests more than your buffet. There are plenty of Christmas recipes that are simple and inexpensive to create that will give revelers good food and leave you time to concentrate on other factors like stunning Christmas decorations.

As well as making sure you have bought enough Christmas party supplies (you can never have enough alcohol at a Christmas party) you should consider presenting each of your guests with a little gift. Christmas history is steeped with the giving of gifts and the party favor is no different. There are plenty of Christmas party favors available that you may want to consider. Your best bet is buying the same present for each of the men and the same present for each of the women. You can avoid arguments this way. As a general rule men love gadgets and women love beauty products, but everyone loves humor.

Good Christmas party ideas will include Christmas party games such as pass the parcel with forfeits. Instead of wrapping a present in each layer of paper, you can use forfeits. Make them as nasty or as pleasant as you like but a combination of both ends of the scale will work best. A combination of good food and drink, enjoyable party games and a party favor will make your Christmas party one that all your guests will remember.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Go here for unique Christmas party supplies.

Reminders In This Generation

Writen by Sandy Baker

There are so many things to remember. How often have you had to remember to three, four or even more things and then, just like that, they are gone. Have you ever had to remember a birthday or anniversary and just forgotten? Not only does this anger you, but it really can hurt the feelings of the person who now feels as if they are not that important to you. That's not the case. You are just too busy with every other thing in your life to get anything to go right.

What Can You Do?

It is important to set up a system of reminders for yourself. You need to remember the birthdays, the anniversaries and that meeting with your child's teacher that is a month away. While you may feel like you don't have the time to do this, you just have to find it. It is essential that you do so because the more overwhelmed you are with remembering one thing or ten things, the more stressed your life becomes and then, well, it just gets worse.

Take the time to put into place a system that you can use each time that you need to remember something. For example, just keep a small notebook with you in your pocket to keep track of the events, schedules and other important information that you need to have. Pull it out; jot it down whenever there is something you need to keep track of.

But, it is important to reference this information as well. For many, the use of their cell phone, Ipod, or other electronic device can help them to keep themselves organized. If you are continuously missing appointments or are simply feeling overwhelmed with all that you have to do, then work on it! Use these systems to make sure that you keep life a little more structured.

Sandy Baker is a well respected writer and recommends sending free greeting cards, personalized the way you want, to friends and familys on their birthdays, via your mobile phone, for free!

Holiday Quotkiquot Moments Choosing Your Best Self

Writen by Judy Ringer

"I like to think of myself as an artist, and my life is my greatest work of art. Every moment is a moment of creation, and each moment of creation contains infinite possibilities. I can do things the way I've always done them, or I can look at all the different alternatives, and try something new and different and potentially more rewarding. Every moment presents a new opportunity and a new decision."

--From Creative Visualization, by Shakti Gawain

The Holidays are filled with key moments -- and Ki Moments. Are you ready for them? Gift decisions, company parties, Holiday dinners with friends and family -- they're loaded with opportunities, aren't they? Will the pressure of the moment help you reach peak performance or will you look back later wondering why you did what you did -- again!

When your sibling does something that pushes your buttons, your children are over the top with excitement, your partner forgets the wine, and your associate forgets the most important action item, whatever you do, say, and receive back will be contingent upon what self you choose in that moment.

Give yourself and those you love and work with some unexpected gifts this season:
--The gift of your best self. When the pressure is on, breathe and come back to what you really want -- for this moment, and this relationship.
--The gift of empathy. Give up the fight and acknowledge the pressure that you and they are under.
--The gift of perspective. Laugh, love, let go, and learn.
--The gift of peace. Don't talk about peace, BE peace, in your family, your workplace, your community, and your nation. As Ghandi said, "We must be the change we wish to see in the world."

Ki (from Ai-KI-do) is the Japanese for life energy. Aikido means "the way of blending with energy." How will you extend your life energy this season? How will you receive theirs? It's your choice. Your life depends on it.

© 2005 Judy Ringer, Power & Presence Training

About the Author: Judy Ringer is the author of Unlikely Teachers: Finding the Hidden Gifts in Daily Conflict, containing stories and practices on turning life's challenges into life teachers. Judy is a black belt in aikido and nationally known presenter, specializing in unique workshops on conflict, communication, and creating a more positive work environment. She is the founder of Power & Presence Training, and chief instructor of Portsmouth Aikido, Portsmouth, NH, USA. To sign up for more free tips and articles like these, visit http://www.JudyRinger.com

Mothers Day Approaches This Year Give The Perfect Gift A Gift From The Heart

Writen by Barbara Ireland

Mother's Day is the one day you get to show your mom exactly how much you love her. Why not give her a gift of all of her favorite things, all put together to resemble a cake. She'll know how much she means to you when she receives one that has her own special soft fluffy bath towel, kitchen hand towels uniquely matching the kitchen she works so hard in, or perhaps her favorite flavored coffee. You can fill the towel cakes with all the items your mom loves the most.

Some unique ideas also including making a tea cake, coffee lovers cake, gardeners cake, or spa cake. Add some ribbon or tulle and flowers and you have made the perfect design cake, that mom is sure to love and never forget.

Try these tips to make a towel cake for Mother's Day:

1) Making a template for the cake base is very simple. By folding the towels a certain way and using corsage pins, ribbon and some patience you to can make these wonderful gifts.

2) To make a Spa Cake - First ask yourself is Mom a bath person or a shower person?

For the Mom who loves to soak in the tub use-Bath teas, Bath salts, Scented Candle, Bath Bombs, and some nice silky body butter for after the bath.

For the Mom who loves taking long hot showers, use-Shower Gels, Body Scrubs, Scented soaps, a long handled Body Sponge, Sea Sponge, and some nice Body Lotion for after the shower.

3) To Make Tea Cakes-Take a kitchen towel with pictures of a teapot or teacups, gourmet teas, gourmet honey, and lemon cookies or Mom's favorite chocolates. You could even fit a cute mug in the cake.

4) Coffee Lovers Cake-Same as above but coffee themed. Flavored coffee, mints, mug, chocolate spoons, flavored sticks for stirring and maybe Mom's favorite magazine or book.

5) Put your creation on a pretty round plate as a keepsake for Mom. Take some tulle from the fabric store and wrap cake up, tie with ribbon add a nice card and you have made the gift Mom will never forget. Best of all everything can be used with these cakes.

For more information stop by our site at http://www.makeadiapercake.biz and chat with some of our more than 300 members who are sharing ideas and tips on the cakes they are making. This is also a perfect opportunity for those looking to start a home-based business. Unique, fun, and profitable. What more could you ask?

Barb Ireland is the founder of Make A Diapercake biz, http://www.makeadiapercake.biz. Articles are free to be reprinted as long as author's bio remains intact.

Holiday Gift Shopping The Fun Way

Writen by Sara Thompson

"I'm looking for that holiday gift that has that certain something. You know, it's unique and timeless, it makes the recipient exclaim; where did you find this! It has to say, she's thoughtful and sophisticated, a fun person, and it absolutely needs to make them smile –Oh, but did I mention I don't want to spend more than $25.00?" That used to be me, pleading with any salesperson I was finally able to corner as I struggled with my holiday shopping. This arduous ritual would begin the week before Thanksgiving, since I always need a hostess gift for where I spend Turkey Day, and continued till after New Year's Day.

After years of stressful holiday shopping, quite by accident, I discovered another way to do it. When I travel, I always enjoy finding interesting and unusual items for my home. While I was traveling during one summer vacation, I found a nutcracker that was incredibly original and fun (makes me smile just thinking about it). I liked it so much; I decided to buy a few extra in case I ever needed a hostess or birthday gift in a pinch. The holidays rolled around and I had not given them away yet, but then it dawned on me that I had the perfect holiday gift for at least 2 people! When I bought the nutcrackers, I hadn't even thought about the holidays being the season when nuts in their shell are in all the grocery stores and everyone has bowls of nuts out in their home. I have to say that at that moment I was very pleased with myself and I only wished I had purchased a box of them! The following year and every year thereafter, I start my holiday shopping mid –summer. Months before store owners are inundated with throngs of people saying "I'm looking for a holiday gift that has that certain something," I have eager salespeople trying to find that 'thing'. In August a holiday gift shopper is a novelty, and online there is plenty of stock in every item and no worries about delivery time. Now, when I do find that unique holiday gift, I do not hesitate to buy a bunch of them. Then, when all of my fellow gift buyers are pleading for help from salespeople until it's all white noise to those weary workers, I'm at home happily wrapping and writing my individualized gift cards to attach to my stash of pre-purchased holiday gifts.

It's the art of gift buying: to find the right gift for the right price, it is vital to accept that there is no right time. I proudly have mastered this art by buying gifts so far in advance that it is seen as comical by my friends-until holiday time-then I'm the only one laughing. That is when they see me relaxing and actually enjoying the holidays as they race around in the crowds and rack their brains and fret over finding just the right gift as they redo their spending budgets in an effort to complete their gift buying on time.

There's a sure proof method to ascertaining whether I have achieved that certain something in my gift buying. I ask myself the question: "what would be my reaction if someone gave this to me?" My answer always convinces me to buy an extra one for myself!

Sara Thompson is the owner of The Original Nutcracker, a website which sells a bold, unique kitchen gadget that's tongue-in-cheek fun!

Frugal Gifts For Frugal Gals

Writen by Cheryl Johnson

A frugal gift is measured first by it's usefulness. Speaking from my own experience, I would say that my most appreciated gifts are those that I not only find useful, but that I would have had to purchase myself at some point. With that in mind, the frugal mind that is, the gift actually serves two practical purposes; It is useful and saves me money.

If you are a frugal gal, this task will be much easier for you. If great minds think alike, the same is true of frugal minds. Simply look within yourself. The frugal gal can get excited about the most ordinary of items. For the rest of you, here's a little help.

Although you may question some items on the list, remember, the frugal gal enjoys frugal things! She looks to get the best value for her money and this IS what makes her happy! It just makes sense that providing a practical frugal gift that may also save money, will make her happy. Isn't that what great gifts should do? So here's to happiness and the pursuit of the frugal lifestyle! Happy holidays, happy birthdays, happy Mother's day, etc. etc. etc....

FRUGAL GIFT BASKET IDEAS

Some of these unique gift baskets might seem odd or unusual to the average person. If you're a frugal gal, you'll completely understand. The rest of you will just have to trust me.

THE LAUNDRY GIFT BASKET

For the frugal gal who holds onto things until they fall apart (or even after they fall apart).
This is the gal who has a laundry basket held together with duct tape, tied together with string or rope, or repaired several times with other various ingenious methods. Probability is, she may not even have a laundry basket. I have several produce boxes (they are extremely strong, especially banana boxes) that make wonderful laundry carriers! And, they are free.

Fill a sturdy laundry basket with one or two boxes each:

• Arm and Hammer Washing Soda
• 20 Mule Team Borax
• A few bars of Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar Soap

I say "sturdy" basket because it will inevitably be put to the test by a frugal gal! If your frugal gal doesn't need a new laundry basket, you can give these gifts in an appropriate size traditional gift basket or just gift bag 'em.

This is a great gift for anyone who doesn't mind saving money. And, I don't know anyone who minds! I would mix up one batch and put in a tightly sealed container. (You can make a decorative container yourself i.e. - a quart mason jar and some decorative fabric banded over the top. Tie with pretty ribbon.) Place with the laundry detergent ingredients to get them to try it and started down the right path. Include the following Laundry Detergent Recipe with the Laundry Basket Gift.

Powdered Laundry Detergent

1 Cup Grated Fels Naptha Soap
1/2 Cup Washing Soda
1/2 Cup Borax
For light load, use 1 tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 tablespoons.

Options:
1. If budget allows, throw in some cloth napkins, utility towels, bath towels, hand towels, or washcloths.
2. Make a little book with a variety of laundry tips, tricks, and homemade recipes. This is great for a new bride.

THE CLEANING GIFT BASKET

The frugal gal makes her own cleaning solutions and is always looking for cleaning and organizing tips. The cleaning basket might include such items as, a couple of spray bottles, steel wool, a pumice stone, cream of tartar, vinegar, baking soda, gloves, scrub brushes, utility towels or cleaning rags, dusters, cloth diapers (make great cleaning rags), household cleaning and organizing tips book or recycling tips.

Top with a personalized cleaning shirt or apron or any other little cleaning gadgets you think your frugal gal might find handy. Throw in a coupon for a coffee break date, with you, at your home, her home, or a local coffee shop! Your treat of course.

THE KITCHEN GIFT BASKET

The kitchen basket contents is limited only to your imagination! This is a great gift for anyone who loves to cook. Frugal gals know the importance of saving through cooking. If you're a frugal gal you can reflect on your own needs and frequent uses to spark some ideas. By the way, the "basket" doesn't have to be a basket. Did that make sense? You'll see what I mean. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Baker's Basket: Fill a large mixing bowl or basket [she'll probably get more use out of the bowl ;-)] with baking tools and/or supplies as much as will suit your budget. i.e. - Wire whisks of various sizes, wooden spoons, measuring spoons and cups, a sifter, cookie cutters, rubber spatulas (you know, those things you use to scrape every last bit of batter out of the bowl. My husband and I still argue about what these are called), a bag of bulk yeast, can of baking powder, various spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, etc.), vanilla extract, or anything else you know your frugal gal or cook will use or needs.

Top it all off with a personalized apron. Make or buy an apron and write the person's name or a personal message, poem, or saying on it, using a fabric paint pen or paints. Other contents might include a cookbook, some of your own favorite recipes printed neatly on a recipe card or made into a mini cookbook, a recipe file, cookbook stand, well I could go on and on.

2. Cook's Basket: Fill a large stock pot or basket with a variety of cooking utensils or supplies. i.e. - Most of the above items could be considered as well as, ladles, cutlery, small strainer/s, tongs, special seasonings, cooking spices (Italian seasoning, cumin, onion powder, garlic, oregano, thyme, etc) and again, top it off with a pretty apron! Throw in a cookbook if your budget allows and/or toss in some homemade recipes for taco seasoning, chicken bake coating, stuffing, whatever you can find to replace higher priced store bought mixes.

A good idea might be to actually make the mixes and give them already mixed in a tightly sealed container or jar along with the recipe. How to save money on groceries tips or book.

THE FOOD GIFT BASKET

1. Frugal Food Basket: Mix up some master baking mix, pancake mix, cookie mix, or muffin mix. Pick and choose or give them all in tightly sealed containers or jars and attach recipes for using and the mix recipe. Decorate accordingly of course. Specialty rice and rice mixes, bean mixes, bean and rice mixes, oatmeal, and couscous. A pack of herb seeds or starter plants for indoor herb gardening. Top it off with an apron, or a gift card from your local grocery store.

2. Treat Gift Basket: Now this one is great to give the frugal gal food items that her budget, or frugal mind, just won't allow. Even frugal gals have favorite gourmet items that they love but rarely treat themselves to. For instance, I love Macadamia nuts. But they are very expensive, making them cost prohibitive for my financial goals right now.

If you don't already know, ask a spouse or close relative what items the recipient enjoys. Fill a basket or other creative container with those foods and other various specialty foods, snacks, nuts, and/or cheeses. Remember to take into consideration any diet restrictions and select your contents accordingly.

3. Coffee or Tea Gift Basket: I'm a true coffee lover. But, as a frugal gal, I know that a common brand will get me through the day just as well as a gourmet brand. That doesn't change the fact that I enjoy a good cup of gourmet or specialty coffee once in a while. But, with my current financial goals, the treat comes few and far between.

The coffee basket will definitely be appreciated by the frugal gal who loves a good cup of joe! Pack that basket with several different brands of gourmet or specialty coffee or a lot of the one brand you know she loves. Include a permanent coffee filter to fit the brand of coffeemaker she uses to show you haven't forgotten her practical side! You can easily adapt the contents to fit the tea lover instead. Top it off with a nice coffee cup.

THE GARDENER'S GIFT BASKET

The gardener's basket is simply a collection of any supplies a home gardener might need; A garden knee pad, gardening tools, seeds, (starter plants if it's the right time of year) Gardening books and tips. Starter pots. Containers for the container gardener. Gloves and a hat.

SEWING GIFT BASKET

Fill a basket or sewing box with a variety of sewing notions. Include some decorative fabric or a collection of scrap fabrics; Sewing patterns or instructions for home decorating sewing tasks or sewing level appropriate apparel patterns. In other words, keep it real. Not everyone is a seamstress but, most frugal gals can make a curtain or pillow cover given simple instructions. Your frugal gal might be a mender or a seamstress. Choose your gift basket contents accordingly. Include such novelties as velcro, snaps, hemming tape (or fusion tape), iron on patches, as these will be handy for most frugal gals.

Now don't worry frugal gals, I've got your back! ;-) I wouldn't want your friends and family to think you will be offended if they give you a non-frugal gift. So here's my last thought......

Although the frugal gal will love and appreciate the practical, useful, gift like no one else can, she is indeed a woman. So, if the notion strikes, you may certainly reward her with a luxury gift. The frugal gal will enjoy a luxurious treat that she would not normally consider for herself. For example, a trip to the salon for a professional manicure, pedicure, or hair style.

If you know your frugal gal has had her eye on an outfit, or other item, that she's convinced she doesn't need but secretly admires and wants, of course (if your budget allows) Get It For Her! Odds are she won't buy it for herself and she will surely be happy to receive it as a gift. She'll get to have something she wants but doesn't actually need, and still remain faithful to her lifestyle or financial commitments.

I hope these ideas help you create beautiful gifts for anyone in your life. Choosing a basket theme to suit the recipients interests or needs is always a winning gift. Personalized gifts are more appreciated and keep on giving. Each time the recipient uses the item/s they are reminded of the thoughtfulness of the giver.

Cheryl Johnson is a mother of four helping herself and others become and remain debt free. Publisher of Simple Debt Free Living at http://www.simpledebtfreeliving.com - a self-help plan, ideas, and resources for a simple proven debt elimination strategy, household budget planning, frugal living, and practical home business ideas . Money saving tips for monthly bills, home decorating, gifts, weddings, groceries, clothing and much more save money every day.

Its Time To Think Thankfulness

Writen by Jeff Herring

"I challenge anybody in their darkest moment to write what they're grateful for, even stupid little things like green grass or a friendly conversation on the elevator. You start to realize how rich you are." - Jim Carrey

Over the years I've written several columns on the issue of gratitude, many around this time of year. Now, when a columnist writes often on a subject, there are a few things this could mean:

1) he thinks it's important,

2) he knows a lot about it,

3) he likes the subject, or

4) he's got nothing else to write about.

Go with number one, with maybe a little bit of two and three, hopefully not number four.

Regular readers of this column know that I like to write about practical things, and stay away from what I call the "squishy psycho-babble stuff." The issue of gratitude can sound like a squishy concept. In reality, it's a very practical concept. Call it an attitude of gratitude, thanks-living instead of thanksgiving, whatever you like.

An attitude of gratitude

From a practical point of view, having an attitude of gratitude simply gets you more in life. This is because of a simple yet powerful rule of life that we often ignore: We get more out of what we focus on. If we focus on all that we don't have, on what others have that we don't, on all that we lack, we end up feeling lacking. Focusing on what we don't have results in envy at best, and, at worst, results in beating ourselves up for all the mistakes we've made. Not a really helpful or productive way to live.

On the other hand, when we focus on the many things for which we have to be grateful, we realize just how blessed and rich we really are. When you feel blessed and rich, you feel much more alive, and thus more motivated to live the life you desire.

A few suggestions

So now, at the beginning of this holiday season, here is my challenge. Make a list of all the things for which you are grateful. Make a long list. Here are a few questions to get you started:

What have you been grateful for in the past?

What can you be grateful for in the present?

Who has helped you in your career?

Who has been there for you when you needed someone the most?

What can you be grateful for in you family? In your marriage?

What can you be grateful for in your job?

What are you grateful for in the last year, month, week, even today?

These questions should get you started. Keep the list with you, and when you notice your perspective shifting toward the wall reread your list to turn your focus back to where you want to go.

If you notice a few names on your gratitude list, contact them and thank them for their contribution to your life. Let them know they made the list. They will feel great, and so will you.

Visit The Article Guy for more leading edge tips and tools for writing articles that bring you prospects, publicity and profits. You can also subscirbe to our monthly Article Empire Tips Newsletter. You are also invited to visit my Express-Start Article Writing Program for more information on the next article writing tele-seminar.

Diwali Sweets

Writen by Rukmini Guggilla

Diwali is a festival not just for lights, lamps and firecrackers, but for some mouth-watering delights as well. Each region of India has its own traditional variety of sweets and cuisines made specifically for this festival.

People clean their houses ready for Diwali so that when they welcome the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity into their house it is tidy, they also decorate it with lights and colourful Rangoli patterns. It is traditional to wear new clothes at Diwali and to buy lovely jewellry in honour of Laxmi.

They make yummy sweets to eat during Diwali, have you ever tried Indian sweets? Try some if you get the chance as they are really lush! There is a link below to a site which has traditional Diwali sweets and Diwali Recipes but most of them require ingredients that you might have in your cupboard.

Diwali is a time of indulging in great fun, joy and laughter and the perfect time for the Diwali recipes to take a center-stage. Well Diwali is known to be a festival of sweets as the sweets form an integral part of any Diwali food, no matter in what part of the country. Thus the majority of the Diwali recipes revolve around sweets and the best part about them are that these are very easy to prepare. The Diwali feasts should be seen as the best opportunities for impressing your friends and family members with your culinary skills.

Thus recognizing the importance of Diwali recipes, we have accumulated the best of Diwali Sweet recipes and have brought them just for you on this site. So read these Diwali Sweet Recipes and get ready to prepare the yummiest Diwali feast for your family and friends this Diwali.

Diwali Recipes:

KAJU BARFI Ingredients:

2 cups cashewnuts soaked in water for 2 hours
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp. Ghee
1/2 tsp. cardamom powder
Silver Varak for decoration

Preparation: Drain and blend the cashew nuts to a fine paste. Use as little water as possible when blending. In a heavy saucepan put sugar and paste. Cook on a medium heat. Keep on stirring continuously till a soft lump is formed. Add ghee and cardamom powder and mix well. Spread on a clean greased work surface. Roll lightly with a rolling pin, to a desired thickness. Apply the silver varak. Cool and cut into diamond shaped burfis.

http://www.indusmall.com/festivals-india/diwali-gifts/send-diwali-gifts-to-india.htm http://www.onlinediwaligifts.com/diwali-sweets.php

Birthday Gift Ideas

Writen by Adriana Copaceanu

Birthday celebrations date back as far as biblical times, when celebrations among Pharaohs and other significant individuals have been mentioned. There is even some evidence to suggest that in pagan cultures people feared that evil spirits lurked about an individual on their birthday because they tended to become more malicious around important events in one's life. In this case birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and actual births were all noted for their importance and their potential for harm. Because of this, gifts were often bestowed upon the celebrant as a means of wishing them well and offering good luck.

Though in times of old traditionally only kings and high ranking nobility had elaborate birthday celebrations, in modern times it is common for celebrations to be thrown for just about anyone. Many people spend a good deal of time pondering about birthday gift ideas, as well wishers still honor the celebrant with gifts on their birthday.

Coming up with birthday gift ideas each year might be challenging for the newbie, but it shouldn't be. When you take into consideration an individual's lifestyle, personality and hobbies, birthday gift ideas should abound.

For example, does the individual with an upcoming birthday enjoy sports? Perhaps they are a book worm. Maybe even a little bit of a diva, looking for some pampering type gifts. Regardless of the individual whose birthday is upcoming, you are bound to come up with many birthday gift ideas if you ponder on the person of honor for just a few moments.

In some cultures, it is not uncommon to forgo birthday celebrations until a child is old enough to understand the significance and welcomed as an adult member of the community. These celebrations are more similar to coming of age initiations that are practiced in many religions, such as the Jewish tradition of a Bar Mitzvah.

Birthday gift ideas might focus upon the significance of the age an individual is turning. For example in Latino cultures a girl's 15th birthday is a significant event, marking a young girl's transformation into womanhood. Gifts recognizing her achievement and maturity would be appropriate to offer in this situation.

Adriana Copaceanu provides people with creative gift ideas that don't blow the bank. Find more Birthday Gift Ideas and if you want regular reminders on gift-giving sign up for her free monthly newsletter

A Hidden Christmas Danger

Writen by Kim Prissel

It's hard enough trying to read all the directions for the various gifts one receives for Christmas, but did you read the instructions BEFORE the holidays?

I bought new lights for my tree this year. It is always a good idea to keep your lights in good working order. The last thing I would want would be a fire in my home. I'm a conscientious homeowner and also try not to have too many extension cords, or unattended candles.

This year, I was surprised to find interesting instructions on the brand new package of lights I bought this year. The warning said the wiring on my lights contained lead and to wash my hands after handling.

Lead, when ingested, can cause various ailments. In adults, when larger amounts are ingested, it can increase blood pressure and cause fertility problems, nerve disorders, muscle and joint pain, irritability, and memory or concentration problems. In young children, very low levels of exposure can result in reduced IQ, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, behavioral problems, stunted growth, impaired hearing, and kidney damage.

Lead is especially dangerous to pregnant women. Lead can easily be transferred to the fetus, as lead crosses the placenta. In fact, pregnancy itself can cause lead to be released from the bone, where lead is stored—often for decades—after it first enters the blood stream. (The same process can occur with the onset of menopause.) Once the lead is released from the mother's bones, it re-enters the blood stream and can end up in the fetus. In other words, if a woman had been exposed to enough lead as a child for some of the lead to be stored in her bones, the mere fact of pregnancy can trigger the release of that lead and can cause the fetus to be exposed. In such cases, the baby is born with an elevated blood lead level.

Granted, the amount of lead that could possibly be absorbed from your Christmas lights is minimal. But read the warning label on your boxes and wash your hands after decorating the tree. Keep your hands from your mouth and perhaps refrain from allowing children to touch the wires. Consider keeping the tree in a room where children don't normally play, or stringing the lights higher than they can reach.

And be careful getting on the bike that had all the "extra" nuts and bolts after assembly.

Kim Prissel is an author on a site for Writers (http://www.Writing.Com/) and her portfolio is located at http://www.Writing.Com/authors/legerdemain

Give The Kids A Quotdressupquot Box Of Costumes For Christmas

Writen by Marian Lewis

Sew costumes to wear all year long and create lasting memories!

Halloween is over, but the real fun is not!

Hurry and scoop up those costumes and accessories while they are on sale!

I just finished sewing a long black coat that my grandson wore to his college "Halloween Party." He went as the guy from "The Matrix." I told him it would be a great witches' coat, too, but he prefered "The Matrix."

The coat was made from a black denim fabric and is floor length. With his dark glasses, he looked "way cool!" He also used this coat as part of a "Gothic" costume that he needed for another party.

While doing this, my mind was flooded with fond memories of sewing "costumes" for my grandchildren. I made so many of the Disney characters, all of the princesses and princes and an awful lot of other story book and cartoon characters. Plus, I'm not sure how many Renaissance Faire outfits I stitched together for them.

What fun for me and the kids. They still love to dress up and they are adults now.

Some of their favorite outfits are treasures to them. They won't give them away even though they outgrew them years ago. They are saving them for their children.

WOW! How cool is that!

I know that Halloween time is the season many of you get out your sewing machines and sew. But, don't just think of Halloween costumes.

Why not sew up several play outfits or costumes and put them into a "Dress Up Box" to give the kids for Christmas! Both boys and girls love this.

Kids need some creative play time. Everything doesn't have to be an electronic gadget!

Clean out your old costume jewelry, old hats, scarves, handbags, belts, gloves, formals, shoes, etc., and add them to the box. If you don't have anything, go to the Goodwill Store and look for bridesmaids hats, formals, boas, beads, etc. Peasant blouses make great pirate shirts.

Add a make-up kit if Mom allows. They love make-up!

Now is the time to pick up some funny wigs, too. Party and costume stores as well as large stores like "Wal-mart" and "Target" have lots of accessories to add this time of year.

These are gifts of love that form a bond between you and your grandkids forever. They won't remember the gadgets, nor will they remember the checks or money you give them.

They absolutely will always remember their special "Dress Up Box". They will remember being "Tinker Bell" or "Jasmine" or "Belle" or "Captain Hook" or "A Musketeer" or even "The Matrix."

And, they will always remember, too, that "Gammy made it with love just for them!"

Have fun!

© 2005 Marian Lewis – All Rights Reserved
1st Step To Sewing Success

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor and the creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks.

In her ebook, "Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants", find out step-by-step WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

For more information, go to: => http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

Marian is also the author of other eBooks related to sewing including, "Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids" where she teaches basic sewing techniques while you have fun doing it!

To learn more, go to: => http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link: => http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

Happy Groundhog Day

Writen by Jeanie Marshall

I live in almost continuous spring in Southern California, so the predictions of Punxsutawney Phil, who has his day in the sun or shade on February 2, are not nearly as important to me as to many in the Northeast of the U.S.

I have many friends in Pennsylvania, so I would be remiss to think about this day without a mention of this hallowed event. Celebrated today, people gather at Gobbler's Knob just outside Punxsutawney to hear predictions from a rodent named Phil, the world's smallest and furriest weather forecaster. Check out the official web site.

At 7:30 in the morning Eastern Standard Time, Phil comes out of his burrow. If he sees his shadow, he predicts six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, he forecasts that spring is near. The townspeople claim that he has never been wrong. This annual celebration began in 1886, so that makes this the 120th year! (We must assume, however, that this is not the same Phil.)

Here's a video rental recommendation. If you want a magical story, rent the video or DVD "Ground Hog Day," a feature film starring Bill Murray and Andie McDowell. This Harold Ramis film is classified as a "Romantic Comedy," yet is also a brilliant film about time, time warp, consciousness, wisdom, awakening, and love. It is one of my all-time favorite films. If you've never viewed it, perhaps it's time. If you have viewed it, perhaps it's time to see it again and again.

Copyright © 2006 Marshall House. Jeanie Marshall, Empowerment Consultant and Coach with Marshall House, produces Guided Meditations on CD albums and MP3 downloads and writes extensively on subjects related to personal development and empowerment. Voice of Jeanie Marshall, http://www.jmvoice.com.

Christmas Specialty Brews 5 Great Christmas Beer Recommendations

Writen by Bernadette Dimitrov

Lots of people, particularly hard to buy for men, like a good brew! There are many unique and special Christmas beers on offer each year that would make a pleasant surprise as a gift. They also make an interesting and topical conversation addition to festive celebrations. Brewers all around the world make special Christmas labels and beers that are considered by many to be the most sort after and best beers of the year! Many of the top Christmas beers are on display at the number one Christmas beer festival in the world held in Essen, Belgium each year in December. A great place to visit for the true beer connoisseur!

Here are some great companies that offer unique brews for Christmas:

1. Very Bad Elf Special Reserve Ale! A classic English bitter ale. It has a slightly sweet body with a spicy flavor based on a recipe from 1795 which uses Fuggles hops (dates back to the mid 1800s). A highly recommended beer! www.sheltonbrothers.com

2. Beer Man sez: Merry Christmas and a Hoppy New Beer! A weaker strength beer for those watching their alcohol yet it is rich with creamy chocolate tones and a slight toasted flavor (English-style hops). www.bigskybrew.com

3. Scrooge & Marley Hazelnut Christmas AlemmDefinitely a unique name and blend for the holiday season! www.huberbrewery.com

4. Anchor Steam Christmas Ale The Ale recipe is different every year as is the label! This ale's motto is to celebrate the newness of life. http://www.anchorbrewing.com/beers/christmasale.htm

5. Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale This is one you definitely want to put under your Christmas tree and make a beer lover very happy this season! This is a dry hopped ale with an intense aroma has been specially brewed for the holidays. Renowned for its great hop taste this celebration ale has been a Gold Medal Winner!

As you can see from the above sample there are some wacky to traditional named Christmas beers. Of course there are still the popular favorites on offer but dressed up for the holiday season such as "Bud Light Holiday Six Packs" http://www.anheuser-busch.com/news/BudLightHoliday110705.htm with Christmas themed wrapping of snow bulbs, holly and Christmas trees which are eye catching and festive. More ale companies are preparing for Christmas by adding extra ingredients to flavor their standard recipes during the holiday season and dressing them up by adding special Christmas wrapping to ensure something really special for ale lovers over the holiday season. Remember always encourage drinking in moderation and enjoy being adventurous and try some new Christmas beers this season!

Visit http://www.HoHoHoChristmas.com for gifts, tips and tools for reviving the fun, magic and spirit of Christmas every day of the year. You can also subscribe to our f*r*e*e 10 day e-course with audio on how to enrich your Christmas experience today! Plus sign up for our sensational f*r*e*e fun Newsletter with great tips, tools and resources you'll love throughout the year. By The HoHoHo Expert, Bernadette Dimitrov, author of The HoHoHo Factor! & Bluey, Santa's New Recruit (ebooks and audio books).

Global Thanksgiving Traditions Its Not Just About Turkey Anymore

Writen by Tim Anderson

Ah, tradition. It's a wonderful commodity, particularly amidst the fray of project deadlines, home repairs, school pageants and the dozens of other daily demands that leave little room for conscious thought. With the mind set to autopilot at the crack of dawn life, at times, seems to careen down a perilous mountain road out of control - at least, out of your control.

Tradition is a wonderful respite. It invites the laying aside of duties and drudgeries for more personal matters. Tunnel vision gives way and, lo and behold, you find you have a family - and a dog named Peter. A single deep breath later and you feel the first hint of feeling returning to your toes, fingers and, in the most welcome of transformations, your eyes begin to slowly uncross.

Now that a modicum of sanity has been restored to you, it's on to a day of turkey and stuffing, cranberries, sweet potatoes and pie. That is, if you live in the United States. But, what if you live in Malaysia? Would you really celebrate Thanksgiving in May? Hmm...

Go ahead. Drown those mashed potatoes with giblet gravy, finish your drumstick and relish every bite of that rhubarb pie. Now, settle down on the couch, put your feet up and dream. Dream of how you might celebrate the Harvest if you lived in a country far, far away...

Malaysia: You pay homage to the rice gods throughout the month of May. Drinking rice wine with local villagers, you dance, sing and feast your way through regional celebrations and then jostle in among the others for the best view - the buffalo races are about to begin.

Poland: You are a young village girl chosen for honor. A crown of straw is placed upon your head. The crowd watches as the mayor approaches and carefully sets a rooster atop the crown. With pride you lead the procession of villagers and musicians and, in the most joyous of events, the rooster crows - a sign it will be an excellent year indeed!

Zambia: The 24th of February has arrived at last. You are most proud. Your province chief has selected you to dance with other Ngoni warriors in the annual festival at Mutenguleni. There, the Paramount Ngoni chief will choose the best of the twelve groups of warrior dancers and a great feast will celebrate the blessing of the harvest. You are most anxious for the dancing to begin.

China: It was not meant to be. Perhaps had your parents understood, or the demands of life been less harsh. He was your true love... Ah, but tonight is the 15th day of the 8th lunar moon, the night of the Harvest Moon Festival. There is renewed hope. Surely, as the poets write, lost lovers find their way in the light of this most bright moon and - the snap of a twig and you turn, catching your breath...

Egypt: Eagerly moving to the field's edge, you hope to once again come within mere cubits of Pharaoh. The Spring Harvest honoring Min, the deity of vegetation and fertility, is about to begin and you are certain he will be at the front of the parade. Yes - there he is! You feel humbled to have seen him for the fourth straight year. Now, joining the others in harvesting the corn, you wail and howl with sorrow. Your joy will only be released later, away from the spirits that inhabit the corn and would seek vengeance if they knew you secretly rejoiced at destroying their home and reaping the bounty.

The Netherlands: The news is dreadful. How could this be? Your mind racing, you run through the fields seeking refuge. There! That old barn. You push back the rickety door, make your way inside and find a crevice among the hay bails just your size. What? The geese - quiet, quiet! Ah, too late. They find you out, St. Martin of Tours, and, though you feel most unworthy, the news is true - a bishop you shall be. In your continuing honor, each November 11th, they will celebrate Matinmas, complete with the traditional dish of roast goose.

Algonquian Tribes: You are a most thankful people. The year will be filled with celebrations giving thanks and asking blessings, six in all. You give thanks to the Creator for the syrup of the maple tree, ask his blessing on the planting seeds, rejoice in the strawberry as the season's first fruit, give thanks for the ripening corn, then celebrate its harvest in the fall. Still thankful, you rejoice once more in midwinter over the bounty of the entire year. It is a good way of life and your heart is full.

...The aroma of freshly brewed coffee rouses you from your dreams. Though you've slept but briefly you feel oddly refreshed, as though you've escaped the bounds of your hectic, frazzled life and stumbled upon a more simple existence. Ah, such is the power of dreams. Now that you've visited places far, far away don't carelessly cast them aside. Return often and, if only for the briefest of moments, explore the rich images that paint the hidden canvases of your mind. As a matter of fact - make it a tradition.

Tim Anderson is a freelance writer who has a special interest in medical topics. Visit his blog at http://medicalmigrant.blogspot.com/

Things You Should Consider When Planning Your Thanksgiving Celebration

Writen by Shauna Hanus

When planning for Thanksgiving dinner there are so many things that need to be considered. You need to plan the turkey, side dishes and pies. There is also the decorations and setting the table. You may even be preparing to serve a large group with a lot of family favorite menu items.

By following a few simple suggestions you will be able to serve a scrumptious Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings and have a wonderful holiday.

The first thing you need to do is create a party planning check list. This should include the menu, shopping list, decorations list, party activities and what to do each day the week before the holiday.

The second thing to consider is what to include in your Thanksgiving menu. Start by planning a menu that has make ahead dishes. Casseroles and pies can be made a few days ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator until Thanksgiving. When Thanksgiving day arrives you can re-heat your casseroles and pies in the oven or microwave.

Third consider asking your guests to bring a favorite side dish or dessert. Most people are excited to help and it makes them feel at home on the holiday. By including others in your food preparation you ease your cooking load and help others to feel special and included.

The fourth recommendation is to set the table a few days ahead of time. By planning the centerpiece and the table setting you can relieve yourself of this worry when your guests arrive.

Finally smile, remember this is 'Thanks' 'Giving'. Enjoy yourself and your company.

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet recipes. She has extensive experience cooking with easy to find grocery items to create delightful gourmet meals. She has put together a special Thanksgiving report that gives you 73 recipes to use with your leftover turkey as well as a special holiday ice cream cookbook that includes favorites like pumpkin pie ice cream and pecan pie ice cream. She has also put together a holiday planning guide to help you have the most enjoyable Thanksgiving ever. You can find all of these at http://www.turkey-leftovers.com

Christmas The Broken Tradition That Left Familes Smiling

Writen by Kacy Carr

The jolly festive season is upon us once again, Christmas a time for happiness/ turkey/mulled wine and crackers. These are just some of the traditions that are upheld at this time of year by people who on Christmas day celebrate the birth of our Lord.

Following this big day we then have the task of putting into force our new year's resolutions just so we can break them, just another tradition where vows and promises are made. Traditions are there for the benefit of remembrance, you have the person that abides by the rules and then you have others that intend to do things a little different. Whoever or whatever sort of person you are tradition is tradition.

By replacing turkey with a plate of pig's trotters on the Christmas menu is another Christmas tradition broken. Remember to be extra careful who you invite on the day for dinner if porky's feet are dish of the day.

A Christmas idea

A fantastic way to keep family togetherness for ever for generations to come when bearing gifts to loved ones is to give each member an identical piece of jewellery symbolizing unity. It is a fabulous way of bonding and proving to the world that blood is thicker than water

Let us go back in time where Scottish tartan denoted the clan you belonged too. Cherokee Indians/apaches etc expressed their tribal identities by headwear or other colourful symbols. So why not bring your tribe/clan together with there own identities in the form of a piece of gold or silver.

Make your new year's resolution today and go in search of the symbol that will be recognized and passed down to future generations, by doing this another tradition is broken, but if it brings happiness, what the heck.

Unison prevails in the form of your own jewellery trade mark where your chosen symbol ring/chain sends a message to the world that this family would proudly like to say, united we stand.

Jewellery gifts can be made extra special by designing your own. Jewellers can take your ideas and work miracles with them as in putting you and your family on the map with your own trademark.

Ho ho ho Merry Christmas

Be sure to visit this fabulous site with trinkets galore. I think you will be amazed when you enter Aladdins cave as I would describe it. http://www.blingblingjewelrystore.com

The Quot12 Ways Of Christmasquot To Give Gifts That Give

Writen by Betty Hoeffner

This Holiday Season, in the wake of the Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and Rita and World Poverty, people are looking differently at possessions. They are seeing that life itself is more important than mere things. According to retail expert Francey Smith, gift giving this Christmas and Hanukkah season will be connected to products that give back to worthy causes. "Children will still be getting their biggest dreams fulfilled at the retail level, but adults will be making a shift as our country's conscious is with those in need." From the natural disasters we have experienced to breast cancer, teen suicide, poverty and domestic violence, Smith has compiled a top twelve list of holiday gifts ideas that give back.

1. Stevie Wonder's uplifting "Shelter In The Rain," is an inspiring and timely anthem featuring gospel legend Kirk Franklin directing the angelic chorus on a song cited as a humanitarian ode of healing for victims and survivors of the devastating hurricanes continuing to ravage the gulf coast. Net proceeds from the sale of this single are going to Wonder's charity organization "The Wonder Foundation", which is earmarking the donations for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

2. Lance Armstrong Foundation's wristbands available at http://www.store-laf.org/wristbands.html have all proceeds going to cancer research. According to Livestrong.org, the LAF currently sells about 125,000 of the yellow wristbands every week.

3. Newman's Own® Organic and U.G.L.Y.'s "Chocolate & Chuckles" is a new product combo that is this holiday season that will have the family giggling while they enjoy sumptuous chocolate. Available at http://www.heyugly.org for $25.00, proceeds from Chocolate and Chuckles benefits two wonderful nonprofits. Paul Newman gives away all his royalty payments after taxes from the chocolate sales to educational and charitable organizations and proceeds from "Laugh It Off" CD containing 60 minutes of contagious laughter benefits HeyUGLY.org, a 501C3 non-profit that empowers teens with self-esteem building tools, to help them counter challenges such as eating disorders, bullying, violence, substance abuse and suicide.

4. Salma Hayek and the Avon Foundation are working together to raise funds for Speak Out Against Domestic Violence with a rubber bracelet for $3.00. 66% of each purchase supports the cause.

5. The DVD, "Things you should know before entering the hospital," was made to address the alarming news that 2 million people contract infections and 98,000 people die in hospitals each year due to medical errors. The film contains step-by-step advice on how to keep yourself and family members safe if they have to be hospitalized. $2.00 from each DVD sold at http://www.patientsafetyvideo.com is being donated to Consumers Advancing Patient Safety (CAPS). CAPS works with hospitals to stop medical errors.

6. Jones New York's "In the Classroom" program has created a fundraising T-shirt designed by Ryan McGinness and modeled by Brooke Shields. The T-shirt, available at http://www.jnyintheclassroom.org, is $20 and proceeds aid the organization's mission to improve the quality of education for America's children.

7. At http://www.polo.com you can buy the "Fashion For Relief" Tee-shirt designed by Ralph Lauren. Fashion For Relief is an initiative organized by Naomi Campbell, and all profits from the sale of this $35.00 t-shirt will be donated to AmeriCares' hurricane relief efforts.

8. ALDO and YouthAIDS' stylish "Empowerment Dog Tag" necklace helps raise awareness and necessary funds to help save lives around the world. The $5.00 "Empowerment Tags" available at http://www.youthaids.org, are engraved with "Hear", "See", or "Speak" on one tag, and the AIDS ribbon on the other. 100% of net proceeds goes towards the education and the protection of vulnerable young people via YouthAIDS, which is run in over 60 countries.

9. Penny Block, author of "A Banquet of Health," cookbook, available at http:/www.blockmd.com for $17, is donating $5.00 for each cookbook sold during the Holiday season to "Living Beyond Breast Cancer," a nonprofit organization that empowers all women affected by breast cancer to live as long as possible with the best quality of life. The cookbook contains over 200 tantalizing recipes, including many of the world's favorite traditional dishes, only with a healthy twist.

10. Pink rubber boots made by Hunter boots are benefiting the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Available at http://www.hunterboots.com for $94, the company is donating $50,000 for every 10,000 pairs sold.

11. Totes pink umbrella which is available at http://www.totes.com for $24. Totes is donating a portion of the proceeds to organizations dedicated to raising funds to help fight breast cancer.

12. Magnolia pins are handmade with silk resting on a velvet leaf. The beautiful pin is approximately 4 inches and available at http://www.michelleroydesigns.com for $28. All profits go the Red Cross in their efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Betty Hoeffner has been writing articles for various media outlets for the past 30 years. She is currently producer of a patient safety film called Things You Should Know Before You Enter the Hospital and president of Hey U.G.L.Y., Inc. NFP, a 501C3 nonprofit organization that empowers teens with self-esteem building tools, to help them counter challenges such as eating disorders, bullying, violence, substance abuse and suicide. U.G.L.Y. is an acronym meaning Unique Gifted Lovable You.

Birthday Flowers Buy Your Birthday Flowers Online

Writen by Dan Caouette

Birthday flowers are a very inexpensive way to maintain an old tradition, that many people are unaware of. Below is a list of the months of the year along with the corresponding birthday flowers. Think about giving birthday flowers as a sign of good luck at the next birthday party on your calendar. Flowers are great way to show someone you care, just like Mother's Day flowers are given, with Birthday Gifts flowers can also be a welcome gift.

Did you know these fun facts about some of the birthday traditions around the world?

Greeks would take cakes to the temple of the goddess of the moon, Artemis, and round cakes were used to represent the full moon. Candles were used on these Greek cakes to represent the fantastic glowing moon.

Some Germans used one large candle in the center of the cake to represent the "light of life." The smoke from the candles being blown out would carry their wishes to heaven, and blowing out all the candles at once would bring good luck. Another tradition that is believed to bring good luck is the giving of birthstones, birthday flowers, or colors used to represent birth months.

An interesting birthday custom from Japan is that they used to celebrate all birthdays on January 1st, however, that tradition has been lost as most Japanese now celebrate on their true birthday.

A tradition that is over 3000 years old is the Mexican tradition of having Piñatas decorated with paper and with flowers, filled with candles and treats that the children hit with a stick until it is broken open.

It is believed that Europe is the place of origin of how common birthday parties. It was believed that evil spirits were attracted to people on their birthday. Family and friends would gather together to surround the birthday person with good thoughts and wishes to protect them from harm. Giving gifts at these "parties" was also believed to generate more good cheer and ward off these evil spirits.

Giving flowers today on someone's birthday is an easy and convenient way to show that you care. Birthday flowers can be purchased fast easy and cheap with our online services.

Dan Caouette is a lead author for http://www.send-flowers-delivery-online.com

Visit http://www.send-flowers-delivery-online.com for great information about sending flowers online.

Honor Mothers Song Remembers Mom Forever

Writen by Neal R. Voron

In the spirit of Mother's Day, two songwriters are sharing with the world their lyrics to a song that commemorates and celebrates a mother's love.

Lyricists Neal R. Voron and Joseph F.M. Pokorny, of Philadelphia, PA, hope that children, both young and old, who read the words to "We Thought She'd Live Forever" will use the opportunity to re-connect with their feelings about and relationship with their mother and others who have been special to them throughout their lives.

The song, written primarily by Voron and modified and put to music by Pokorny, is a wistful reflection upon the loss of a mother for whom "time had cast... much too short a line".

"We thought we were so clever, we thought she'd live forever," the song laments the passing of time and of a loving mother who "seemed so grand and in command... But, suddenly, she left us quite in shock."

In the song, the mother's children realize, "All that's left are memories, faded pictures, but still we see the love she gave to everyone she knew."

Voron, 40, wrote the song in the late 1980's while contemplating how fast time seems to go by and how we often do not quite show as much appreciation for our loved ones as we would perhaps wish to have done before they are gone.

The children and mother referred to in the song, he said, are symbolic representations he used to express his own feelings regarding his mother, Babs, to whom the song is dedicated. He said he feels fortunate to have been able to share his thoughts with his mother personally through the song -- no one in specific actually died to inspire the lyrics.

Voron said he decided very recently to distribute the song's lyrics because he had never previously aggressively promoted the song and because he believes the lyrics could positively impact a large audience.

Individuals can obtain a copy of the lyrics for free by sending e-mail to: forever@voron.com or by visiting: http://www.voron.com/forever.htm

Sheet music for the song will soon be available in electronic format at the web site for a suggested voluntary payment.

Voron and Pokorny say they may make a recorded version of "We Thought She'd Live Forever" available in the near future if sufficient interest is shown.

"We Thought She'd Live Forever" Lyrics by Neal R. Voron & Joseph F.M. Pokorny
Song Lyrics & Music Copyright © 1989.
All Rights Reserved.
Web Site: http://www.voron.com/forever.htm
Autoresponder: forever@voron.com

We thought we were so clever,
We thought she'd live forever.
We knew that she would be there all the time.
We knew she would if she could.
Sometimes we felt she really should.
We thought she'd live forever, forever.

The tales of time, the trails of time,
We never watched the hands of time.
We believed she mastered the old clock.
She seemed so grand and in command,
A flower in a fertile land,
But, suddenly, she left us quite in shock.

We thought we were so clever,
We thought she'd live forever.
We knew that she would be there all the time
We knew she would if she could.
Sometimes we felt she really should.
We thought she'd live forever, forever.

A better woman no man could find.
A loving mother, no child' leave behind,
But time had cast her much too short a line.
All that's left are memories,
Faded pictures, but still we see,
The love she gave to everyone she knew.

We thought we were so clever,
We thought she'd live forever.
We knew that she would be there all the time.
We knew she would if she could.
Sometimes we felt she really should.
We thought she'd live forever, forever,
Forever, forever.

About The Author

Neal R. Voron is the author of a self-help/inspirational novel, "The Obstacle Course". (Read the first 5 chapters for FREE... obstac@voron.com or visit: http://www.TheObstacleCourse.com). Neal seeks to "make a difference" in peoples' lives via his Voron Communications web sites: http://www.voron.com; info@voron.com

Fly Fishing Gifts For Christmas

Writen by Richard Chapo

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year unless you're having problems coming up with gift ideas. Here are a few fly fishing gift ideas.

Okay, I'll be the first one to admit publicly that buying gifts for the holidays can be a pain in derriere. When it comes right down to it, how well do you know someone and how do you know what he or she likes? Buying for kids is great because you can always peak at the letter to Santa. Unfortunately, most adults have given up writing to Santa and you really don't want to read through there other letters. Fortunately, this isn't a problem if you are buying for a fly fishing enthusiast.

Fly Fishing Gifts

Fly fishing is an extremely popular sport and a good way to become one with nature. Of course, you probably don't care about any of that. Instead, you want to know what you should buy for guy or gal in your life that loves to go fly fishing. Well, here are a few ideas.

1. Flies – You lucky dog, the top gift you can give a fly fisherman is a fly. Flies are the "bait" that go on the end of the line and are used to attract fish. Flies come in a variety of types and forms. The most basic are Nymphs and Mayflies, which mimic a type of bug that lives in rivers and is considered fine dining by bass and other fish. You can expect to pay a couple of bucks per fly, so feel free to buy more than one.

2. Local Specialty Fly – Okay, this will take a bit of effort on your part. Every fishing area has a specialty fly that is known to have fish leaping out of the water before casting even begins. Since the exact fly varies from location to location, you need to stop by a local fishing store and ask for advice. Try to pick a beat up looking shop with gentlemen of an older persuasion. They'll talk your ear off, but you'll get something unique.

3. Fly Station – Okay, this is going to be a more costly item. A fly station looks like a small desk and for a good reason. The fly station is where your beloved angler will sit and create his or her own flies. Part of the allure of fly fishing is tying your own flies and fly stations are built for this purpose. You can expect to pay as low as $75 and as high as anyone has the never to charge.

4. Nomad Fly Fishing Journals – A little self-promotion here. Nomad Fly Fishing Journals are compact writing journals that let anglers keep notes on their efforts. They can note the fishing conditions, which flies worked the best, who the fished with and notes on what they should do differently next time. You can click the link at the bottom of this article to see the journals and expect to pay $25 for the journal and waterproof case.

If you're looking for fly fishing gifts, consider yourself lucky. The equipment tends to be inexpensive and last a very long time.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Fly fishing journals are great fly fishing gifts for anglers and fly fishing trips and vacations. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more fly fishing articles and stories.

Free Birthday Ecardshow To Search

Writen by CD Mohatta

The days when everything was free on the Internet are slowly becoming history. Today if you want something good, you have to pay on the Internet. You can still get beautiful birthday ecards that are free and some times better than paid ecards. Let me tell you how to select them.

Make a quick search for birthday ecards on a good search engine. Click on some websites and read the terms carefully. Are the ecards totally free or it is only for a trial period. Select websites that offer totally free.

JPG and Flash Birthday ecards - don't send JPG ecards. They are one of the earliest designs and the better ones are available only in flash. Use flash ecards of decent size. Don't take very small size. JPG ecards have one advantage that the user need not have flash player on his/her computer. But with popularity of flash designs most of the users are having flash players on their computers.

Design Selection - Use designs that look decent and are light eight. ecards filled with many animations look over crowded and don't look good. Go for subdued designs.

Free Birthday ecards are a boon for Internet users. You save money on burying printed cards, paying for postage and the labor of posting them. Free birthday ecards can be sent with a single click and cost nothing. What more can you ask for in Free Birthday Ecards?

C.D. Mohatta writes for ecards, quizzes and desktop downloads. You can send free Birthday ecards with his writings and also download Birthday screensavers. Also see his writing in fun quizzes and tests

Five Tips To Make You The Perfect Thanksgiving Host

Writen by Shauna Hanus

These are your friends. Feed them right. Skip the brussel sprouts and go for the food every one will enjoy. Also Thanksgiving is not the day to start your new diet. Use the good stuff, cook with salt, butter and eggs. Start tomorrow with the healthier alternatives.

Make sure you have plenty for everyone. Guests on Thanksgiving will typically consume;

• 2-3 Drinks, either alcohol or non-alcohol
• 4-6 Appetizers
• ½ to 1/3 pound of meat
• 2 servings of all the trimmings
• 1-2 slices of pie

Thanksgiving is a big day people tend to eat a lot, so prepare for the feast.

Have your table set before your guests arrive. Thanksgiving can be stressful without proper planning. Try wrapping your silverware in napkins so that guests can just grab and go. Have all your glasses handy with plenty of ice. Never allow your Thanksgiving guest to feel awkward by having to ask for a glass or ice.

Make sure your guests know where the trash can is. You can move it out from under the sink and set it where everyone can see. Also have one member of your family be in charge a trash patrol. Have them keep an eye on the garbage can so that it does not over flow.

Finally be prepared to send home leftovers. Everyone likes having leftover turkey and mashed potatoes, even your guests. By keeping on hand plastic bags or disposable containers you will be able to package up turkey leftovers for you and your guests.

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet recipes. She has put together a special Thanksgiving e-Cookbook that gives you 73 recipes to cook your leftover turkey as well as two bonus e-books of a special holiday ice cream cookbook that includes favorites like pumpkin pie ice cream and pecan pie ice cream. She has also put together a holiday planning guide to help you have the most enjoyable Thanksgiving ever. You can find all of these at http://www.turkey-leftovers.com

Is Santa Claus A Pervert

Writen by Gordon Basichis

Christmas is the time of year when we like to spend our time with our children, friends and family. At least, that is how the story goes, and for the most part it is pretty true. We forget last year's tribulations, the traffic jams and crowded stores. We fill our cars with ever-precious gasoline and our spirits with holiday cheer, and then we head off to the mall. We do a little shopping, trying to avoid the crazies who in increasing frequency are ready to do physical battle over the fad gift of the moment.

We stand in line for what seems like forever, juggling shopping bags and restive children, waiting our chance for a few minute conference with none other than the Big Guy from the North Pole, Santa Claus. There he sits on his gilded throne, amid all the blinking lights and Christmas décor. He is assisted by his helpers, who less often these days are midgets or dwarves, posing as elves. Midgets and dwarves allegedly scare the kiddies. The scene is fully nostalgic, resplendent with your own childhood memories. Your children are so anxious to sit and tell Santa what they want for Christmas, they can barely stand it. And here, amid the fake snow and the holiday festivities, it never occurs to you that Santa Claus may be a pervert.

That's right. Despite all good intentions, your favorite mall may have mistakenly hired a child molester, whose recent residential address may have been the state penitentiary and not the North Pole. And you think you should be concerned about your child's fear of midgets and dwarves. The truth is, that very lap where you place your child to declare his holiday wishes may actually belong to a pedophile.

To support this claim, CBS News recently had one of its staff impersonate a convicted felon and child molester. The staff member applied in five Los Angeles malls, under the name of the actual felon. The felon was a man who was registered along with 63,000 sickos on what is commonly known as "Meagan's List." He was hardly a well-kept secret. And yet all five shopping malls hired the man to be their Santa Claus. Later, when confronted with the issue, one man claimed to have run a free pre-employment background check that is generally good for nothing. The others mumbled lame excuses that, when translated logically, meant they probably had not run any kind of pre-employment background check.

In other malls throughout the country, those responsible do conduct pre-employment background checks, along with drug testing. The good news is, employers like Santa Plus, of Fallon, Missouri, which screens the 500 Santas it places in 250 malls, in 46 states, do conduct background checks. However, by some accounts, 70 out of every 1000 applicants for the Santa or Santa's helper jobs have a felony record of some sort. That is approximately seven percent of those screened. They may also be applying to the malls and services that don't do any background checking. They may be like the staff member of CBS, who, while posing as a child molester, got hired anyway. At five different malls. In the case of CBS, their guy was an imposter, helping to work a feature story. In the other cases, they are the real thing.

I know this is terrible. But if it ended there, we could almost be grateful. . Perhaps the larger question is, who are what are you having over for the holidays? Are you not doing the same thing as the shopping malls when you are thinking of dating someone without first checking him out? I know, your new Mr. Possible seems perfectly lovely on the Internet, and he is charming on the telephone. It is the holiday season. You feel lonely. It would be nice to share the holidays with someone who shows the potential for romance. But a confidence man, a criminal, or a pedophile, has had lots of practice at disarming his pray. Winning you over is what his life is all about. Getting to your wallet; getting to your children. They are good at it.

This is not to suggest you investigate old Uncle Fred, although it's not always a bad idea. It is to suggest, however, that if you are a single woman, especially a single parent, and you are using the singles and online dating sites, you had best run an online dating background check on your potential paramours. Not only does an online singles background check help protect you from theft of goods, confidence scams, identity theft and your own risk of physical harm, but most importantly, it helps protect your children from the kind of strangers they should never meet.

Remember, Check Him Out Before You Date Him.

Gordon Basichis is the author of the best selling Beautiful Bad Girl, the Vicki Morgan Story, a non-fiction novel that helped define exotic sexuality in the late twentieth century. He is also the author of The Constant Travellers, a sci-fi fantasy Western. The first chapter of Basichis' new book Spook, a Roman A'Clef detailing Chinese Espionage in the United States, is featured in a forthcoming anthology, Sleeping with Snakes, Notes from the Los Angeles Underbelly.

A professional marketing executive, Basichis is also co-founder of Corra, which as the Corra Group specializes in pre-employment and online dating background checks, as well as corporate research and investigation.

Gift Ideas For Fathers Day 18 June 2006

Writen by Michael Hanna

Dads, and in fact men in general, are notoriously difficult to buy for. And Father's Day is a tricky one – it's not as personal as a birthday, but you can't really ignore your dad on the day when every other father in the land is getting a new tie. The secret of a good Father's Day gift lies in thoughtfulness. You may not feel comfortable telling your dad that you love him, or that you are grateful for all that he does for you, but you can express a great deal with a hand-made card, or a carefully chosen gift.

Put yourself in his shoes

Think about what your dad likes, and needs. If he has an important business meeting coming up, maybe a new tie or shirt, from somewhere like T.M.Lewinwill be appreciated. When the meeting comes around, you can remind him to wear your gift, and tell him that you will be thinking of him. If, on the other hand, your father is a stay-at-home dad, who spends his days in jogging bottoms and a t shirt, then maybe he needs some time and space to himself once in a while.

What about a gift he can keep?

Perhaps you would prefer to buy your dad a keepsake for Father's Day. There are plenty of affordable gift ideas out there, and many of them are easy to get hold of from websites. H.Samuel is a familiar high street name, but you may not have realised what a huge range of gifts they have. There's bound to be a store near you, and you can also try out their website – you can find what you want by shopping by price, by brand or by category.

Ideas for Traditional Dad...

If your dad is the traditional type, who wears a suit and tie to work, then maybe he would like a smart new watch to complement his business attire? Classic brands such as Accurist and Seiko are perfect to add a sophisticated touch to his look. You could also consider a pen set – it's not the most exciting of presents, but if you have it engraved with your dad's name or initials, it will become something much more special.

Cool Dad...

Does your dad still reckon he's hip with the kids? Then treat him to a poker set, just make sure he doesn't play for money, or he might fritter away your inheritance. Alternatively, why not get him something from one of his favourite brands? Well-known names such as Ben Sherman and Puma are now producing funky gifts, jewellery and watches.

Young Dad...

For the younger dad, you might like to think about buying some jewellery. Of course, not all men go for jewellery, but if you know that he wears it, you could give him something a bit different like a silver dogtag necklace or a chunky bracelet. Again, engraving these gifts can make them extra special. Or why not find a cool, sleek photo frame to give him? Add the personal touch with a precious photo of the two of you.

Older Dad...

Cufflinks are always a good bet for Father's Day, and they are getting more stylish. It's up to you to choose whether your dad would like fun, novelty cufflinks, a traditional discreet pair or some designer ones from a top fashion brand like Police or Ben Sherman. Another great present, which will be appreciated by the many dads out there who like the odd tipple, is a tankard or hip flask.

Thanks Dad

Whatever you choose to get your dad, the most important thing about Father's Day is that it gives you a unique opportunity to tell you dad just how much you love him, and what he means to you. It may be that those words won't actually come out of your mouth, but the perfect present will do the talking for you.

About the Author:

Michael Hanna is a keen writer, and internet marketer living in Scotland.

Contact details:
E-mail: samqam@googlemail.com
Phone: 0131 561 2251
Michael's Website: Taxi Belfast Airport

Getting Hearts And Hands Ready For The Holidays

Writen by Carolina Fernandez

"At Christmas play and make good cheer, For Christmas comes but once a year." -Thomas Tusser

OK. Thanksgiving was wonderful, visiting with family and sharing fun stories and adventures; laughing around the dining room table, enjoying favorite stuffing and pies; watching parades and football games; and counting your many blessings.

It is now time to turn our attention to the many preparations for Christmas. Coming from a Christian perspective, I can speak for the anticipation which we all feel to celebrate the birth of the Christ-child. It brings us wonder each and every year, and the time and energy we put into its celebration never wanes. As I watch my Jewish friends prepare for Hanukkah, I sense, too, the joy with which they prepare celebrations with loved ones.

The gift of sacrificial love is the true essence of Christmas.

Teaching your children to give generously and to give cheerfully models the life of Christ. Our God, who created each one of us with more love than we can imagine, desires this same outpouring of love to others, and it is at Christmas that we likewise share our love through gift-giving and through acts of generosity and hospitality. We are buoyed by the "Christmas spirit" because it is through giving--rather than receiving--that we receive the most joy. Pausing to think about others, about their needs and desires, and extending yourselves to their benefit, brings deep inner satisfaction not found any other way.

Have you made your list of those people with whom you want to share the Christmas spirit?

Consider giving small, inexpensive gifts to a large list, rather than more extravagant gifts to a very few loved ones.

When Ithink of the model of giving I want to pattern for my own family, I cannot exclude from the list those folks who cross my path on a daily basis--in one way or another--who may or may not have yet reached into close friendship with me. And so I am always thoughtful for small yet kind ways in which I might extend generosity.

Extend your circle of concern.

Think not only of what members of your own family would appreciate at Christmas. Think of cousins and aunts and uncles, and of closest friends. And don't stop there. Extend your circle. Think of your mail carrier, pet groomer, your pediatrician's office staff, the folks at your gym, your neighbors, friends of your children, office workers at you or your spouse's place of work, your manicurist, the landscaper....think through the flow of your typical week and those people who enter your life on a regular basis. If they are serving you in some capacity, isn't it kind to remember them now?

Many people refrain from practicing generosity to those outside their small circle of concern because of the lack of money with which to do so. But inexpensive gifts can be handmade for pennies if we will only stretch our imaginations and put our hands--and those of our children--to good use.

Look to nature and to materials right outside your front door

Free for the asking and the picking: a fresh bouquet of greens-- evergreens, magnolia leaves, and berries, tied with a gorgeous silk ribbon--would be cherished by any receiver.

Tiny bird nest ornaments fashioned from Spanish moss, filled with speckled beans and a silk butterfly, and with a wooden clothespin glued from underneath, make delightful gifts for children and adults alike. My own tree is filled with them.

Collect pinecones and make an arrangement with them. Your thoughtfulness will be appreciated and it will have cost nothing more than a walk in the woods.

Homemade candies or cookies wrapped in inexpensive cellophane bags look elegant tied with ribbon and make perfect gifts for virtually anyone on your list.

Miniature baskets filled with one tiny, simple gift, are perfect for your children's friends.

Remember: children love exaggeration; anything diminutive (or enormous!) appeals to their sense of wonder.

Homemade "snow globes" make our list every single year

Simply use a baby food or other small jar and fill it with water and a small bit of glycerin (found at your local drug store) and white glitter; add a few plastic toys--Lego's, Barbie doll shoes, jacks and balls, plastic bugs--and then squeeze a think line of silicone sealant around the lid before screwing it on to prevent leakage.

Homemade glycerin soaps filled with tiny plastic toys are adorable

They'll delight your children as well, for they'll have created happy memories making them with you for all of their friends.

Consider making homemade wrapping paper or handmade gift tags.

I buy inexpensive tags at office supply stores by the hundreds. They cost about a penny apiece. I also use twine instead of expensive ribbon. One bolt lasts several years and costs a couple of dollars.

And mail those out-of-state gifts early to avoid long lines at the post office as well as the extra expense of priority mail.

Model a generous life...at Christmas and throughout the year. Give faithfully and give cheerfully. You will be blessed beyond measure.

Carolina Fernandez earned an M.B.A. and worked at IBM and as a stockbroker at Merrill Lynch before coming home to work as a wife and mother of four. She totally re-invented herself along the way. Strong convictions were born about the role of the arts in child development; ten years of homeschooling and raising four kids provide fertile soil for devising creative parenting strategies. These are played out in ROCKET MOM! 7 Strategies To Blast You Into Brilliance. It is widely available online, in bookstores or through 888-476-2493. She writes extensively for a variety of parenting resources and teaches other moms via seminars, workshops, keynotes and monthly meetings of the ROCKET MOM SOCIETY, a sisterhood group she launched to "encourage, equip and empower moms for excellence." Please visit http://www.rocketmom.com

How Parents Can Win The Battle To Keep Your Child Safe From Strangers This Holiday Season

Writen by Michelle Annese

When we think of Holiday shopping, we think of all the glowing lights at our area malls and the various eye-catching decorations in shopping centers. Along with distractions with our 'to do' list in our heads, we get preoccupied with carrying bags and scoping out gifts. But with all the whirlwinds of diversions, we cannot put our guard down with who is scoping out our own children.

To help with this here are the top 7 things parents can do to prevent their young from falling prey to strangers and child kidnappers in the busy hustle and bustle of the season.

1. Stay connected. Make sure you have your children with you whether in a stroller or holding your hand. Even if your child stays next to you other times of the year, all the distractions of toys, decorations, and Santa can make any kid get sidetracked. For older children invest in a family walkie-talkie set. Make sure they know how to use it and check in with them on regular time intervals to know where they are – even if they are right next to you.

2. If your child is lost go right to security. Most malls and shopping centers have security protocol when a child is missing. Don't try to look for your child alone. Let them help you the second you realize you cannot find your child – every moment counts.

3. Know what your child is wearing that day, and carry a recent picture with you in your wallet. Most moms and dads have lots of pictures of the kids, but baby pics are not helpful if your child is lost and security needs to search for them.

4. Teach your child what to do if a stranger approaches them. First – Run away! Second – Tell somebody!

5. Role play with your child ahead of time. Use tactics that some kidnappers have used in the past and teach your children not to 'fall for a stranger's sneaky tricks!" i.e. stranger favorite lures: candy, video games, comic books, toys, telling them "your mommy told me to bring you home" etc.

6. Do not have your child wear anything with their name on it – i.e. back packs, purses, and jackets. Child offenders with pick up these clues and use the child's name when speaking with them to gain trust.

7. Practice, Practice, Practice! Reviewing these strategies not only will help your child remember, but keep it on your mind as well. We all want our children safe, happy and well for more holidays to come.

About The Author

Michelle Annese is the author of 'The Realtor Survival Guide' and owner of http://www.michelleannese.com, a web site devoted to information for women about self-defense, crime prevention and other personal safety topics.

mannese@ntelos.net

Birthday Party Supplies

Writen by Seth Miller

Kids take their birthdays very seriously, and get extremely disappointed if they are anything short of spectacular. Throwing an unforgettable birthday party can sometimes seem like a task better suited for a professional event planner. But with the proper party supplies, a little know how and a lot of imagination, you can throw a birthday party that the kids will be talking about all year.

It is very important to consult with the birthday boy or girl about the kind of party they would like, as kids or teenagers have their own ideas of what makes a party fun. It is important to ensure that party themes and ideas, party games, food and favors are kid friendly.

A successful birthday party always has a great theme. There are many great party themes to choose from, ranging from the birthday boy/girl's favorite toy to their favorite movie genre. The possibilities are endless, and a good theme can really help pull the entire party together. Once the theme is chosen, planning the party becomes much easier. All the decorations and food should match the theme. For instance, if you are throwing a Western theme party arranging for cowboy birthday banners and barbequed burgers with chili and hot dogs is a good idea. Party favors can be cowboy or cowgirl hats. Games are an important part of any birthday party and offering small prizes to the winner of each game is a great idea.

Favors are generally the highlight for children at a birthday party, and they love getting little gifts to take home. Small favors to go along with the party theme can be exciting. For example if it is a princess theme, girls can be given tiaras as they arrive and a bag full of beauty items such as hairbrushes, hair clips, nail polish and lip-gloss. Other general favors include pencil and eraser sets, notepads and candies.

Planning a birthday party can be a difficult and time consuming task, but it is all worth it if the party is a success. Birthday parties are important occasions and should always be made special with the best of supplies available in the market.

Party Supplies provides detailed information on Party Supplies, Birthday Party Supplies, Discount Party Supplies, Wedding Party Supplies and more. Party Supplies is affiliated with Fireworks Videos.