G.A.L.S. - Get it All for Less!

2011-09-21T11:15:00.004-04:00

I probably shouldn't be happy to hear this, but I am. Being overweight has at least one benefit - it may reduce your risk of experiencing hot flashes during menopause.

There are many hypotheses on why hot flashes occur and the best ways to combat them. What no one disputes is that 75% to 80% of women experience hot flashes during menopause. Mild flashes last a few minutes, severe ones can last up to 30 minutes and be followed by a chilled feeling. These hot flashes can impact a woman's quality of life in many ways, both at work and at home.

Diets high in fiber and low in fat are recommended to lower the incidence of hot flashes. B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, can be depleted during hot flashes, so taking supplements of these nutrients can be helpful. Soy has been suggested as a preventative due to the phytoestrogens contained in soy.

But overall, it appears that thinner women may have a higher incidence of hot flashes. This is because hormones secreted by the adrenals are converted into estrogen by fat cells. So having a few fat cells on hand is not a bad idea.

So if anyone asks, that hot fudge sundae I had for dessert was simply medicinal.

The Story of the Calorie

2011-09-15T10:57:00.008-04:00

We all end up counting calories, but do we all know exactly what a calorie is? Did you know that a Calorie is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree? Does that really matter?

Anyone who has tried dieting (everyone) has become intimately acquainted with the Calorie. We know there are 4 Calories in a gram of protein and a scary 9 Calories in a gram of fat. We know how many Calories of our daily allotment that donut would use up and how the remaining Calories leave us with the unsatisfying choice of only cucumber slices or some type of watery gruel for dinner.

Who invented the Calorie, or discovered it or whatever they did? James Hargrove, associate professor of foods and nutrition, University of Georgia attempts to answer that in an article published in Journal of Nutrition. In it, Hargrove explains how the calorie came to be and how the science of nutrition first began in the US.

A quick search at Amazon gives 34,302 results for books having to do with Calories. There were titles on counting Calories and Calorie counts(which is different) and then the books that say Calories don't count.

I liked the title: Foods That Cause You to Lose Weight: The Negative Calorie Effect

I am just assuming you can eat more negative calories than you can positive ones. Maybe they can even cancel them out...I should find my junior high math book...

My favorite has to be this one: Lose weight while you sleep: 4 strategies and 52 simple things you can do to help you burn more calories while at rest . There's a concept I can get behind, a kind of active napping that relieves guilt and makes you thin.

SPLAT!

2010-07-20T13:36:00.002-04:00

My teen daughter is obsessed with changing her hair color, and I have witnessed not a few failures in her attempts to dye her own hair various colors. She announced recently that she'd decided to dye the underneath layer of her hair red. Having lived through the purple fiasco a few years ago, I tried very hard to dissuade her.

I knew I would end up having to help her, another reason I didn't want her to try it. She assured me that this time she had read all the reviews and packaging and had made good decision. Then she showed me the product - SPLAT! in Luscious Raspberry. I didn't think it sounded promising.

I must say, however, that I was surprised at how well the product worked. It's a two-step process, which wasn't as difficult as I had imagined. The instructions were a bit confusing as they told you to mix the bleach and the developer in the plastic mixing tray. We returned one kit for another because this tray was missing. Turns out it is missing from all of the kits, but the second kit had instructions that rightly explained that you must mix the bleach in the plastic bottle. Bleaching the hair was the bit that took longest, and that's really just the wait because her hair started out dark brown. Then it was time to apply the luscious raspberry.

I do think the kit should have come with two sets of plastic gloves or at least a warning: Don't throw away the gloves after you finish applying the bleach! I had some seriously pink fingers but luckily, most of the color washed off easily if I got to it quickly. Good thing, too, because it was impossible to keep from getting it on my daughters neck.

I really prefer her natural hair color but I will say that this product did the best color job at home of all the ones she has tried and the results were very much what she had hoped for when she bought it. The kit cost her about $9.00 on sale at a local drugstore and we had the whole process done in under an hour.

If you're thinking of adding strips or layers of color or even coloring your whole head, I can recommend SPLAT! for an easy at-home color job.

Lack of Willpower NOT the Reason Most Women Ditch Diets

2010-03-01T12:49:00.000-05:00

If you got up this morning and weighed your granola portion before eating it, you may end up being one of the millions of women who daily abandon their diets. Researchers at Indiana University found there's a good reason so many women give up on diets after a short time - the diets are just too complicated.

The IU study concluded that the more complex the diet's rules and instructions are, the less likely it is that people will stick to it. Simple diet plans are much more likely to succeed. And long-term success is also more likely if the diet plan is straightforward and easy to follow.

The study involved German women who were already involved in diet plans, one of which was from Weight Watchers. I thought Weight Watchers points system was fairly easy but when compared to another plan called "Brigitte", its success rate was much lower. The Brigitte plan gives dieters a shopping list, so they always buy the foods necessary to stay on the diet, whereas Weight Watchers lets you choose the food but you must calculate the points each food contains. I think I prefer to have that freedom of choice, but for many women, it seems it is easier to follow a plan that is very specific and simple.

So, if you're finding it hard to stick to your diet, it may not be your willpower that's lacking - it may be that your diet is just too complicated.

Read more

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T21:10:00.002-05:00

Valentine's Day is one of those holidays with an uncertain beginning. There are two major legends about St. Valentine, for whom the day is named. St. Valentine was a priest in Rome in the third century BC. One legend says that the Emperor Claudius II had determined that single men made better soldiers than married men and so outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine thought this was a terrible law and continued to perform marriages for young people in love. For this he was imprisoned and executed. Another legend is that Valentine was in prison and just before his execution he sent a letter to his lady love and signed it "Your Valentine".

However it came about, Valentine's Day became the day for people to show their love for their sweethearts with gifts of candy and roses. But it's more than that, even young children exchange valentines and candy. If you're in love, then the romantic side of the holiday makes you want to find the gift and the card that melts the heart of your significant other. But everyone can enjoy this lovely day by just celebrating friendships and family.

So, however you plan to spend the day, whether with your heart's desire or cutting out paper valentines with the kids, have the happiest Valentine's Day ever!

Boost Mobile Adds the Sanyo Incognito to $50 Plan

2010-02-12T17:14:00.005-05:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Boost Mobile. All opinions are 100% mine.

Cell phone plans and contracts can be confusing and expensive. Text messaging is often a separate charge and there are limits per month. Sometimes, you have to add specific packages or go to another tier to get more texting included. Plus, if you don't like your plan, it's going to cost you to terminate it early. All of that equals a lot of hassle and may result in some unexpected charges. That's why no-contract plans like the $50 unlimited plan from Boost Mobile are fast gaining popularity.

It's an attractive choice - 50$ a month gets you nationwide coverage, unlimited calling, unlimited text and unlimited web with no contract. And now Boost Mobile is offering the SANYO Incognito for $129.99 with their $50 unlimited plan.

The SANYO Incognito™ SCP6760 boasts a full qwerty keyboard for more ease in texting and social networking. Enhanced web browsing means you can communicate with friends and family through all your favorite sites, like Facebook. Keep the grandparents up-to-date by sending photos and videos via Multi-Media messaging. The Sanyo Incognito also features a 2MP camera with VGA camcorder and music and video player.

If you prefer text over talk, like I do, then a full qwerty keyboard is essential. The clamshell design of the Sanyo Incognito affords this benefit in a sophisticated, slim and sleek device. Stereo Bluetooth capability adds to the functionality of this phone and it's GPS enabled.

The SANYO Incognito™ SCP6760 is a lot of phone and the no contract, $50 unlimited plan from Boost Mobile is a lot of service with a lot of freedom.

Clear Gel Mascara for Eyebrow Taming

2010-02-11T11:03:00.004-05:00

My eyebrows have lived through many fads and trends. I think they were most suited for the thick, Brooke Shields, "show 'em if you grow'em" look of the 80s, but that's because they do grow and grow and grow and are naturally thick. That's when I first started using clear mascara to groom my eyebrows. It helped me brush them into shape and accentuate them.

Nowadays, I try to keep the brows a little thinner but they still need some taming. Clear mascara helps to create the line and hold it there, especially if your eyebrows can get wild like mine.

Clear mascara can also be used on lashes. It's great for times when you might have problems with colored mascara running - when you sweat or swim, for instance. It's a good base for brown or black mascara. You can separate the lashes with the clear mascara before applying your tinted coat. It can also keep lashes curled longer when applied before using your lash curler.

The best part is that clear mascara can be purchased for under $5 for the drugstore brands. A small price to pay for well-groomed brows.

Micro Minis Make a Comeback

2010-02-06T12:34:00.003-05:00

Every style that goes around comes around again. In this case it's the micro mini skirt that's making all of us examine our thighs to see if they bear baring. One quick rule of thumb is that if you could wear a micro mini the first time they were popular, you probably shouldn't now.

Even those women who have great legs might feel a bit exposed in a micro mini, or worry that they're giving the wrong impression. Keep this skirt for nightclubs or hot, summer days in the sun and you probably won't have to worry. Remember The Nanny on television? She wore the shortest micro minis on the small screen, but notice she also often wore black, opaque tights with her mini. Wearing tights shows your legs off to good advantage without making you look too underdressed.

I think this style is strictly for the teens and maybe young, twenty-somethings. What do you think?

Fantasy Shopping Trip at Talbots

2010-02-05T10:20:00.008-05:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Talbots. All opinions are 100% mine.

Talbots set me an interesting and fun task. Supposing I had a gift card for a $500 shopping spree on Talbots, what would I choose? I thought it would be easy. I am very qualified, I've been shopping as a vocation for years.

But the variety of styles and colors at Talbots meant that I could choose any kind of look I wanted - professional, formal, casual - and in colors to suit any mood or palette. Suddenly, I was faced with a bigger challenge than I had expected.

However, when I spied this item, I knew that the outfit had to be built around it.

I have always loved the classic lines of a peacoat and this coat ($169.00) stays true to that classic style while updating it for a fresh look. Tabbed sleeves and non-tradtional but oh-so-feminine colors modernize this favorite. I chose Peacock, which is blue but softer and richer than the traditional Navy.

The Bi-stretch front-zip pants ($119.00) provide all around comfort with a classic styling and fit. The pants in Ivory, which I selected, are fully lined. They are a versatile addition to any wardrobe that can be matched up with nearly any color, in any season.

Because I love color, the pants are the only sedate part of my outfit and under the coat I intend to wear the Ballet-neck tee in Rhododendron ($34.50). For comfort and style I shod my feet in lovely Square-toe leather flats ($99.00) in Rhododendron to match the top. A Dark Porcelain blue reversible belt ($34.00) offsets the ivory and a Paisley scarf ($44.00) completes the outfit with its carefree print.

My grand total came to $499.50. I think I did pretty well in putting together an outfit that will take me into spring with style and flair. Why not try this yourself, and let your fashion sense guide you? Talbots carries a great selection of clothes in a wide range of sizes - you'll be surprised at just how stylish you can be for a reasonable price.

And why not check out red chair confessions, Talbots new blog? It's got fashion tips, daily confessions, and sneak peeks into all the newest fads and trends.

Noah Cyrus and Emily Grace Reaves Launch Kiddie Clothing Line

2010-02-03T14:08:00.002-05:00

Noah Cyrus, the 10-year-old little sister of Miley Cyrus and friend Emily Grace Reaves are launching a new clothing line for girls. The new line for Ooh! La, La! Couture should make mothers everywhere cringe.

The clothes are risque and seemingly inspired by the costumes of saloon girls from old westerns with the sashay skirts and fishnet stockings. Leopard-print mini-dresses and fingerless black gloves remind us more of Madonna than child.

The couture creations are set to be unveiled on Valentine's Day.

Emily Grace Reaves appeared in the Hannah Montana movie.

Avatar Inspires Eternal Magic

2010-02-03T13:22:00.002-05:00

Avon will release a new fragrance inspired by the movie "Avatar". The scent is a colaboration between Avon and Zoe Zaldana, the star of the movie. The result is "Eternal Magic".

Zaldana plays one of the Na'vi, the tall, blue natives that inhabit the moon, Pandora.

Avon says that "Eternal Magic" embodies timeless grace, beauty and elegance. Zaldana's character is the beautiful Neytiri with whom the human, Jake Sully, falls in love.

Meanwhile, Avatar seems to be eternal magic for its director, James Cameron, breaking even Titanic's box office records.

The LG Chocolate Touch

2010-02-02T11:35:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of LG Chocolate Touch. All opinions are 100% mine.

What are the essential items you make sure you put in your purse before you leave the house? Keys, wallet, lipstick of course, but chances are you never, ever leave the house these days without your cell phone.

Cell phones have gone from bulky luxury to sleek and slim necessities. They keep us in touch with family, friends, work and so much more. But as attached as you are to your mobile device, what more could it do for you?

The new LG Chocolate Touch performs as a cell phone and so much more. With the LG Chocolate Touch you have everything you need to keep you in touch and entertained all in one attractive, compact device with touch screen ease of operation.

Leave the iPod or MP3 player at home. You can listen to your favorite tunes with Dolby Mobile technology that provides the ultimate in sound quality.

Forget the bulky, digital camera. The LG Chocolate Touch features a 3.2MP camera/video recorder with image editor. Take photos or videos on the go. Whenever something amazing catches your eye, you can capture it on-the-spot. When I go someplace new, I like to take pictures of landmarks along the way. Not only do they make a great photolog of my adventures, they help me find my way the next time I visit without the need for maps.

Leave the laptop on the table top. You don't need it to update friends on Social Networks like Facebook, MySpace or Twitter.

Do you hate listening to those audio voicemail prompts and having to listen to or delete messages that aren't important to get to the ones you care about? I know I do. The LG Chocolate touch gives you Visual Voicemail so you can manage and monitor voicemail faster and more efficiently. I prefer having it all out in front of me, so I can see who left me a voicemail and when - without having to wait through the auido prompts.

Now, you don't absolutely need the Rhythmical Beat that vibrates the handset to the beat of the music or the other Sweet Visual Effects, but they've got to be a lot of fun. Hey, entertainment is part of the whole package.

With all these features, I can see that the LG Chocolate Touch is one great device that could make many of my other devices completely unnecessary, and fit in my pocket at the same time. No worrying about where to plug in that bulky laptop or if I brought my camera. I definitely like checking on my Facebook when I am out and about, so that feature is one I would use often. What could you do with an LG Chocolate Touch?

Lead in Egyptian Makeup May Have Had Antibacterial Properties

2010-01-28T13:21:00.002-05:00

Makeup was very important in ancient Egypt and both men and women wore elaborate eye makeup. We've known for a long time now that the lead base they used for makeup is highly toxic, but according to this article it also had some anti-bacterial properties.

The Egyptians saw makeup as a magical protection against evil spirits. In some ways, anything that promotes health and wards off disease could be viewed that way by ancient peoples.

Because the samples of ancient makeup from Egypt had disintegrated so much over the centuries, scientists cannot determine the exact levels of lead they contained. Today, there is still debate on lead in makeup - it can be found in some lipsticks - and whether the amount of lead is the difference between being safe or unsafe.

Personally, I prefer to make sure my lipstick does not contain lead. Until and unless they determine what is a safe dose of lead, I would rather err on the side of safety.

But I do think that makeup is magical.

Favorite Winter Perfumes

2010-01-16T11:31:00.003-05:00

Every season has its own feeling and ambience. Perfume choice is just one way to update your total beauty package every season. Winter is a wonderful time, because I think it lets you wear the fragrances that might seem too heavy in Spring or Summer. Here's a list of some of my favorite Winter fragrances, in no particular order or price range as a few of my favorites are inexpensive brands:

1. Neblina by Yves Rocher. It's an intoxicating scent that makes me feel relaxed and dreamy.

2. Everlasting by Avon. It's spicy and warm, like Neblina, but a little lighter. It's also on my list of favorite Autumn perfumes.

3. Opium by Yves St. Laurent. If you're going to wear this heady scent, this is the perfect season for it. Definitely will fire things up on an icy day.

4. Raffinee by Dana for Women. I love this scent all year long, but it has a romantic side that makes cold-weather cuddling even better.

5. Lovely, by Sarah Jessica Parker. With its fruity and woody notes, this perfume is also perfect for warmer months, but the lavender and musk base make it an especially romantic scent. It lasts all day without being overpowering.

6. Sand & Sable by Coty. Warm and spicy with Jasmine, this scent awakens the sensual, romantic side of you.

Clean and Clear - Does it work?

2010-01-10T13:43:00.000-05:00

I was really surprised when I saw my teen daughter had become fan of the Facebook group "No Clean & Clear Does Not Keep Ur Skin Under Controll" (pardon the teen spelling). I was even more surprised to see that a lot of her friends also joined the group. Some of them said that they felt Clean & Clear actually exacerbated their acne rather than helping to clear it up.

So, does anyone out there have a testimonial on this product? I had purchased it for my daughter and she liked it at first, but tells me she stopped using it because her acne got worse and even seem to spread. If you've had either a good or bad experience with Clean & Clear, please leave me a comment. I am interested to see if these are isolated cases. Also, if you have recommendations on other acne products, I would appreciate the input.

Christmas Shopping Online

2010-01-03T09:02:00.000-05:00

My Christmas shopping online went smoothly this year, in fact, it was more satisfying than I expected.

Wal-Mart particularly impressed me with standard shipping that brought my purchases to me in the space of three days. A last minute purchase arrived within two days and in plenty of time for Christmas. It was a very important gift, a new video game for my son. I also got the lowest price around and super-low shipping rates.

Target also delivered, even on the pair of boots for my daughter that I didn't expect to arrive until after Christmas because of my late ordering date. Although they weren't promised until several days after Christmas, they arrived two days before. I suppose some of the credit goes to the great men and women who work at FedEx, UPS and the USPS. Thanks guys, you made Christmas really special!

The best part is that I got great bargains and even shopped some clearance in order to get the most for my dollar. My daughter said it was her best Christmas in years, and overall, I spent less.

If you're not an avid online shopper, I'd suggest you try it.
My favorite sites to shop are Wal-Mart, Target, Toys R Us and Overstock.com.

Healthy, Beautiful Peppermint

2009-12-27T15:15:00.000-05:00

One thoughtful but simple gift that I received for Christmas is also one of my favorites. A candy jar filled with peppermints.

Peppermint is one of the signature flavors of the season. Candy canes adorn the Christmas tree and make refreshing and sweet post-Christmas treats. So, I began to wonder if peppermint had any health benefits.

Turns out that peppermint oil is considered to be an effective treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Peppermint oil in skin products can refresh and brighten tired skin. It's often added to foot creams. In facial care products, peppermint oil can brighten dull skin and remove excess oil. It is even said that peppermint oil will stimulate hair follicles and hair growth.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint "is also used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid in digestion. Because it has a calming and numbing effect, it has been used to treat headaches, skin irritations, anxiety associated with depression, nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence. It is also an ingredient in chest rubs, used to treat symptoms of the common cold. In test tubes, peppermint kills some types of bacteria and viruses, suggesting it may have antibacterial and antiviral properties."

Uses for Green Tea in Skin Care

2009-12-20T14:44:00.000-05:00

You've probably heard that Green Tea is widely consumed by people interested in its antioxidant properties - it may help prevent certain types of cancer. It is also said to improve mental alertness. But green tea can also be used on the skin.

Green tea bags can be applied under the eyes to reduce puffiness and tighten undereye skin. Applying green tea to a sunburn will aid in healing and reduce pain. It may also protect against skin cancer from sun damage.

You can also use green tea in a compress for headache or sunburn. Green tea may also help to stop bleeding after a tooth extraction.

Green tea is a great, natural treatment that offers many health and beauty benefits.

Hair Tinsel for Holiday Sparkle

2009-12-14T16:09:00.000-05:00

Looking for a new way to add a bit of holiday sparkle to your look? A new hair accessory, hair tinsel, may be just what you're looking for.

Hair tinsel comes in nearly every color and is better than highlights that are permanent because you can change the color to match your mood or your outfit.

There are great places to find hair tinsel on the net and you can watch instructional videos on youtube. Just search for "hair tinsel".

Here's an example of how hair tinsel can add holiday bling:

Winter Skin Care - Moisturize

2009-12-07T14:19:00.000-05:00

Even if you moisturize daily as part of your routine, you can experience severely dry skin once winter arrives. Cold weather means more time spent indoors and the indoor environment gets drier than ever when the heat goes on. It may be necessary to follow a completely different moisturizing routine for the season.

Here are some ways you can protect your skin from the harsh winter dryness:

* Get an oil-based moisturizer or emollient cream. These oil-based moisturizers will form a protective layer that will prevent moisture loss from the skin. The most important areas to apply a heavy-duty moisturizer are your hands, elbows, knees and feet. Oil- based moisturizers for your face will be lighter, and you should make sure that the oils in them will not clog pores.

* Wear sunscreen to protect from sun damage. The sun can be just as drying and damaging to skin in the winter. Don't forget this essential step before spending extended periods of time outdoors.

* Stay hydrated. Drink water, it's good for your body and for your skin.

* Keep your hands protected by moisturizing often. I keep a bottle of hand lotion right at my desk. Don't forget the gloves when you go outside.

* Treat driest areas by slathering on something containing petroleum jelly or glycerine at least once a week. Petroleum jelly covered by a pair of white, cotton socks worn overnight will do wonders to keep your feet soft and supple through the coldest, driest months.

* Moisturize daily and apply moisturizer directly after bathing to keep from losing moisture from the skin.

Go Matte to Conceal Imperfections

2009-11-30T10:28:00.000-05:00

Oily skin and find that trying to keep that "dewy" look to your face and makeup only leads to more oiliness and ruins your look? Well, the good news is that going with matte makeup will give you a much more satin look, it's sophisticated and coming back into style.

Matte doesn't mean uninteresting or pancake. It simply means using something that conceals flaws rather than making them more noticeable. It's not about putting heavier layers on, but about using the right foundation.

A matte foundation will give that flawless look to any face, as well as hiding blemishes, flaws, discrepancies in skin tones and makes the perfect canvas on which to highlight your eyes and lips.

Play up the lips by going darker, redder and draw attention to the eyes with eyeliner and mascara. The smokey eye works wonderfully with a matte makeup base but use a more neutral lip color.

As women mature, the dewy look of youth isn't something to be maintained. Choosing to go with more sophisticated makeup and keeping it matte will make the most of your beauty.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T11:50:00.001-05:00

Well, it's finally happened. This year we will not be going to another relative's house for Thanksgiving. The traditional turkey will be roasted by little old me and all the pies to be baked at home.

I have already made my plan so that the entire meal can be prepared without too much time or fuss and I am actually rather excited about making Thanksgiving traditions in my own little family. I even resisted the idea of ordering the entire meal, pre-cooked, from the local grocery store.

Here's wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving whatever your traditions. Enjoy the blessings of family and friends. Stay warm, healthy and as beautiful as you are!

The Perfect Body Shape? Create it

2009-11-12T10:30:00.000-05:00

The "perfect" female body shape is "moderately tall with a body balanced vertically, an hourglass figure and an oval shaped face". Did you know that only about 2% of the population naturally has this body type?

It's no wonder that women are constantly seeking new ways to "shape" and "tone" and even seeking surgical procedures to achieve perfection. Television and magazines tout the look that so few of us have naturally.

But you can dress to emphasize your good points and de-emphasize those imperfections. Clothing is often chosen by fashion trend, but you should really take the time to select your wardrobe by what flatters you most.

If your torso is rectangular, and your waist not as small as you like, choose tops that emphasize your shoulders. This will give the optical illusion of broader shoulders and a tapering waist.

There are many simple tips that can help you look your best. If you are of short stature, don't wear long tops that make your legs look short. This advice can be applied for those with short legs but a long torso as well. The opposite is true for those with a short torso and long legs, you definitely don't want to wear short tops that make your torso look even shorter.

The idea is to create the illusion of a balanced body shape. There are many good resources on the net that will help you determine your body shape and give you great tips on how to dress to inpress.

Here are some good sites to check out:

http://www.style-makeover-hq.com/body-shape.html

http://www.myshape.com/shop/body-shape

http://www.dressmenow.com/shape.htm

Confessions of a Coffee Addict

2009-10-27T12:26:00.000-04:00

First let me say, I love coffee. I have an unnatural affection for coffee. Over the years I have gone from cream and 2 sugars to half-and-half with saccharine and thence all the way - yes, I drink it black.

I savour every bitter drop. I like every kind of coffee, from the most mundane store brand to the richest espresso. Each has its place in the day. For me, coffee is more than just a way to keep alert, although with a full-time job and two kids, I can use all the alertness I can get. Coffee is more than just a way to keep going, it's a comforting, warm companion.

It's 10:17pm and I am drinking a cup of coffee as I write this. Yes, that is probably far too late in the evening to be drinking coffee, but you see, I am an addict.

I am more than an addict - I actually proselytize. I preach coffee to others. I have heard so many say to me "oh, drinking coffee is so bad for you". But is it? What major diseases, other than acid stomach, are directly related to coffee drinking? None that I know of. I even read of a study in the Lancet that recommended it for cardiovascular health.

In fact, I know of several ways coffee is good for you. It's been shown to reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, colon cancer and even cavities. The best part is, you need to drink lots of it, not just that tiny teacupful in the morning. These are the facts I quote to all who question my devotion to my java.

Today I read that coffee also prevents liver cancer. Coffee drinkers were 41% less likely to get liver cancer than those who abstain from coffee. Just another good thing to come from coffee. And another great statistic to those who sneer at my addiction.

Vampire Makeup That's Not for Halloween

2009-10-20T12:20:00.000-04:00

With the Twilight series of books and now films so popular, Vampires seem even more entrenched in popular culture than ever. Now, they find their way into beauty products as well with the launch of the "Twilight Beauty" line of makeup.

Tantalizing offerings include "Just Bitten Staining Balm" for lips, "First Light Body Glow" and "Moonshadows Eyeshadow". Expect a lot of shimmer in these products, as the Twilight vampires all have skin that sparkles like diamonds in the light.

Even if you're not a fan of the Twilight phenomenon, the line offers some unique and some more traditional looks. How about some "Twilight Venom" - a crimson lip stain "suspended in a venom-laced lip conditioner" which serves to plump lips as well as color them. A potent bite, indeed.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-10-06T16:43:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to remind everyone that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Women everywhere should pledge to be faithful in doing self-exams and getting mammograms on the schedule recommended by your health care practitioner.

There are many ways to support breast cancer research and treatment which will save the lives of women worldwide. You can volunteer for a breast cancer walk event near you. Details are readily available from the American Cancer Society.

Another way to support the fight against breast cancer is to buy products displaying the pink ribbon. These products range from cosmetics to food products ( I even bought a can of tuna with a pink ribbon on it). If you want to know how much of your purchase goes towards research, you can usually contact the manufacturer for that information.

Feeling Stressed? Mow the Lawn

2009-08-27T10:22:00.003-04:00

Can mowing your lawn make you feel more relaxed?

Well, you won't have to worry about neighbors who complain about your unkempt lawn but there's more to it than that.

I had a friend once who swore by Herbal Essence shampoo and on several occasions had men asking to sniff her hair. I had doubted the pull of the outdoor scent but it seems that there's scientific evidence to back up her claims.

Australian scientists have found that a chemical released by cut grass has a calming effect on the brain and may even boost memory.

Dr. Nick Lavidis, a neuroscientist at the University of Queensland, said the aroma regulates the part of the brain known as the amygdala and the hippocampus, which are responsible for the flight or fight response; and the endocrine system, which controls the release of stress hormones.

Now if you don't have a lawn or don't want to do yard work in order to relieve everyday stress, you're in luck . The researchers have now bottled the relaxing aroma of freshly- mown grassw into a stress-relieving perfume named Serenascent. The scent is said to have the 'pleasant aroma of a freshly-cut lawn or a walk through a lush forest'.

We'll let you know when it's available in stores.

Read More Here

Coffee Staves off Alzheimer's Disease

2009-07-07T13:24:00.002-04:00

I love coffee and nothing makes me happier than just one more good reason to enjoy a hot cup of this amazingly aromatic brew every morning. And scientists have just given us such a reason.

Seems that coffee may actually decrease your chances of getting Alzheimer's. They found in studies on laboratory animals that reverses the build-up of a beta-amyloid protein in the brains of experimental mice. This beta-amyloid protein is the one that clumps together inside brain cells and keeps them from working properly, causing memory loss and the loss of cognitive faculties in Alzheimer's patients.

The recommendation is for three strong, black cups of coffee per day. I consume at least that much. Coffee is particularly helpful in increasing alertness and cognition in the elderly, even if they don't have Alzheimer's.

Well, I am off to brew another pot of miracle java. Make sure you take your coffee today, too.

What to look for in a Hair Straightener

2009-06-30T13:37:00.000-04:00

It had to happen eventually. My faithful hair straightener finally bit the dust. It's had hours of use by both me and my teen daughter and it just couldn't take it anymore. We all know how well teens care for appliances. Well, it had been dropped a fair number of times, the plastic was cracked and taped back together but it still heated day after day so I didn't see the need to replace it.

Well, I finally did have to replace it. After a week of muggy weather, frizzies and just plain bad hair days, I couldn't take it anymore and I bought a new hair straightener and am I glad I did.

I got a reasonably priced ($27.99) device from Remington that has 30 heat settings as opposed to the 20 on the old one. Plus it will even work on damp or wet hair, taking it to dry, straight and smooth in one step.

I now realize too, just how much nicer it is to have the ceramic plates as opposed to the metal ones. Much smoother and my hair doesn't get caught in the appliance quite so much so I assume there will be less breakage and damage. The instructions say that the tourmaline in the plates have an ionic effect and will smooth out frizzies better. It does seem to do a great job, but it's still damp and drizzly outside so it's hard to tell yet.

If you're looking for a good hair straightener at a low price, I can say we are pleased with this one. In any case, I would definitely recommend you get one with the ceramic plates because I do notice a big difference in those and how my hair looks when I am done.

The most important part of any straightener is the ability to control the temperature, the ceramic plates and minimizing damage to your hair. You can get them in every price range from drugstore prices to expensive salon appliances. Just make sure that it has the features that protect your hair while giving you the smooth, sleek look you want.

It's a Blu World Contest

2009-06-20T20:47:00.001-04:00

I love to bring you news of great contests and this contest is one of the best I have seen. BluFrog actually gives you your choice of 5 fabulous prizes if you're a winner in their It's a Blu World contest, and trust me, there's something here for everyone.

If you're an inveterate gamer, choose the BLUGAMER Ultimate Gaming Package with an Xbox 360 Elite System, Rock Band 2 Bundle and the complete Call of Duty: World at War. It's a gamer's dream.

For NASCAR fans there's a chance to have the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Orlando Florida if you choose the BluStreak prize. Stock car racing thrills on a speedway with your own pit crew to help out.

As if that's not cool enough, there's even more. You could fly to Aspen for the 14th annual Winter X Games with the Xtreme Blue Games prize. If you prefer the city to the mountains, maybe you'd rather try to win a New Year's Even in New York.

I can't think of any prize I would rather win than the trip to Chicago for the Lollapalooza music festival. Great bands and artists from every music genre perform at Grant Park in this world famous music jam with over 120 acts. And while I'm there, you can bet I'm going to find some Chicago deep dish pizza.

Here's the best part - it's so easy to enter. All you need to do is to tweet Blufrog and tell them which great prize you want to win and you've entered! So, what are you waiting for? Get over to Blufrog and check out this great contest and get your entry in.

Summer Hair Care - Sun Damage

2009-06-20T16:48:00.002-04:00

It isn't just your skin that can suffer from the drying effects of the sun during the summer months. Warm weather brings us outdoors more often, and to different places like the pool or the beach. If you want to keep your hair looking smooth and silky all summer, a few essentials are necessary.

Number one: condition, condition, condition. Use a conditioning and moisturizing shampoo, an after-shampoo conditioner and do at least one deep conditioning or hot oil treatment per week. Another great idea is a spray-on leave-in conditioner that will give your hair an extra layer of protection against harsh pool chemicals and drying sun.

There's been some question of UV damage to hair and you can find hair products that contain sunscreen. There's no harm at all in using a product like this and it may help lessen sun damage to your hair.

Another great idea for protection from sun damage is to wear a hat. Hats can be the accessory that really makes an outfit sing, so find one that suits your style and personality and keep it all under your hat.

FDA Warning - Nestle Recalls Toll House Cookie Dough

2009-06-19T19:31:00.000-04:00

If you're a fan of raw cookie dough, (and who isn't?), you need to know that Nestle has just recalled all varieties of its prepackaged, refrigerate Toll House cookie dough due to possible contamination with E. coli O157:H7.

The FDA is warning consumers not to ingest any of the Nestle's Toll House Cookie Dough. Cooking the dough is not safe either, because consumers could get bacteria on their hands and on cooking surfaces.

Another reminder from the FDA is never to eat raw any food that is meant to be cooked before eating. Always wash hands before and after food preparation and clean any cooking surfaces.

E. coli O157:H7 causes abdominal cramping, vomiting and a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults can recover completely within a week. Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing HUS, which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

If you have any Nestle Toll House cookie dough, do not eat it whether it is baked or raw. Since March there have been 66 reports of illness in 28 states.

Vogue Editor Sounds Off on Skinny Models

2009-06-15T09:51:00.001-04:00

The editor of Vogue says that models are becoming so skinny that the magazine has had to retouch photos to make their models appear larger. Not only that, she says that even the skinniest models can't get into the sample size clothes sent out by designers.

Alexandra Shulman sent a letter to all the major fashion houses, complaining about the focus on size zero clothing. She wishes that designers would start to design clothing for real women, and feels that the focus on being ultra-skinny is an unhealthy one that can lead to eating disorders among women and young girls.

In the last few years several models have literally starved themselves to death, trying to achieve the size necessary to be successful in their careers.

Read more here.

Award Winning Web Hosting

2009-06-14T15:10:00.003-04:00

If you're like me, you want to get the best bargain no matter what it is you're shopping for. That means getting the best price without sacrificing quality. When it comes to webhosting, it means finding the features, bandwidth, reliability and customer service that you need.

Which host you choose is going to depend a lot on what you will be using it for. Are you starting an online business? Looking for the best blog host? If you're confused about which host will best serve your needs, you will find these web hosting awards to be a great resource.

Whatever type of hosting or features you need, you won't have to worry about wasting time doing all the research yourself. It's all been done for you and the best web hosting companies already identified with information on pricing, bandwidth, server monitoring, customer support and much more.

Getting the right host for your website is a lot easier when you can compare hosts and get objective reviews. Take the time to check out the reviews and the award-winning hosts to make the job a whole lot less troublesome.

FDA Recall - Hand Sanitizers

2009-06-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

Hand and skin sanitizers have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many households keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in the kitchen and bathroom and many people like to keep one handy at their desk in the office, in the car or even a carry-size in a purse or pocket. But not all hand sanitizers are equally effective and this week the FDA actually warned about one brand of sanitizer that is dangerous due to bacterial contamination.

The brand is Clarcon and they make a variety of skin and hand products and santizing lotions. The FDA states that a high level of disease-causing bacteria was found in Clarcon products and the company has voluntarily recalled the suspect products.

Please check the list to see if you have any of these products in your house. The FDA recommends you throw the product away and do not use it. Some of the contaminating bacteria can cause opportunistic infections of the skin and underlying tissues. Such infections may need medical or surgical attention, and may result in permanent damage. Examples of products that should be discarded include:

Citrushield Lotion

Dermasentials DermaBarrier

Dermassentials by Clarcon Antimicrobial Hand Sanitizer

Iron Fist Barrier Hand Treatment

Skin Shield Restaurant

Skin Shield Industrial

Skin Shield Beauty Salon Lotion

Total Skin Care Beauty

How to Get Free of Contacts with iLASIK

2009-06-08T21:56:00.003-04:00

I can remember standing at the counter in the optometrist's office some years ago,faced with a bill for my contact lenses. In exasperated tones, I told the woman behind the counter that people who can see have no idea how much money it saves them. She smiled, but looked unperturbed.

I really hate wearing glasses, but the cost of contact lenses and solutions over the years can really add up. Wouldn't it be nice if you could just have improved vision without having to wear glasses or contacts? With LASIK, now you can.

LASIK is surgery that corrects your vision. It's quick, virtually painless and has an excellent track record. In fact, patient satisfaction rate with laser surgery is 98%. That's impressive considering that 3.5 million people had laser vision correction surgery last year.

The iLASIK procedure results in 20/20 vision, in some cases better than 20/20. Imagine waking up in the morning and being able to see. No time spent rinsing the contact lenses or trouble inserting them. No danger of infection from contact lenses. Just clear vision without glasses or contact lenses.

Maybe you think you can't afford iLASIK. Did you know there are financing options available? Think about payments as low as $89 a month compared to the amount of money you've spent over the years for contacts and the amount you will spend in the years to come. A lifetime of wearing contacts can cost up to $25,000!

You owe it to yourself to check out the advantages of iLASIK. An experienced and qualified surgeon will examine you and tell you whether or not you are a candidate for iLASIK surgery. You can also take the quiz at the website to see if you are eligible, most people find that they are.

The truth is that you can get some vision correction with glasses or contacts, but iLASIK can eliminate the need for any other vision correction, give you better vision than with glasses or contacts and set you free from a lifetime of hassle and expense.

Max Factor Being Pulled from US Stores

2009-06-07T21:20:00.001-04:00

The cosmetics company founded by the man who coined the word "makeup" is about to disappear from US store shelves. Max Factor, now owned by Proctor & Gamble is more popular in other countries than in the US and P&G is going to stop distributing Max Factor products in America.

Max Factor, born Maximillian Faktorowicz, invented the first pan cake makeup and the first lip gloss, both necessary for motion pictures old. In the early days of Hollywood, the name Max Factor meant beauty and glamor.

Max Factor products will still be available in more than 70 other countries, but not in the US as of next year. So, if you have a special product you can't live without, it might be time to stock up.

Save Money on Baby Formula

2009-06-01T17:06:00.003-04:00

Over the years I have learned the money-saving lessons of comparing store brands to name brands. Often, I found that buying the store brand gave me a product that was in every way as satisfactory as the more expensive name brand while also saving me money.

Mothers face a particular budget crunch with a new baby. In addition to rising costs of disposable diapers or diaper services if you go with cloth diapers, for some mothers there's the added expense of baby formula.

Pediatricians will tell you that when it comes to baby's nutrition, the breast is best. In some instances though, a mother may choose to use a baby formula to feed her infant or to supplement the baby's nutritional intake. This can occur because of difficulties in breastfeeding or because the mom's schedule makes supplementing with formula necessary.

Whatever the reason you choose to feed your baby a formula, you may be dismayed at the prices. What you may not know is that many retailers are now carrying store-brand formula at much lower prices. If you are concerned about the nutritional value and safety of a store-brand formula, you may be reassured to know that all baby formulas must adhere to strict guidelines set by the FDA.

Parent's Choice Infant Formula is a nutritionally complete infant formula available from Wal-Mart that meets the strict guidelines determined by the FDA for formula. You don't have to sacrifice nutrition to save money on formula.

If you can meet your baby's nutritional needs and save money, why wouldn't you? Families can save $600 a year by switching, that's money you can save for your baby's future.

How much could you save with Parent's Choice? Find out today by using the handy Savings Calculator at the Parent's Choice website.

Remember, only you and your baby's health care professional can make decisions about important issues like feeding your baby.

Summer Hair Care - Chlorine Damage

2009-05-30T12:39:00.004-04:00

Summer means more time by the pool, tanning and swimming. You already know how to care for your skin properly, with sunscreens and care to avoid the strongest UV rays of the day. But all those cooling dips in the pool can really stress your hair. Here's how to avoid the damage, breakage and color changes that pool water can cause to your hair.

Chlorine is added to pool water to eliminate bacteria and reduce any risk of infectious organisms. But chlorine is brutal to hair. It strips the sebum, or natural oil, from your hair leaving it dry and prone to damage and breakage. Other metals like copper are oxidized by the chlorine and get deposited in hair, turning blonde hair and colored or bleached hair that weird greenish tinge of summer. Even if you haven't previously colored your hair, chlorine and sun will alter the color of your hair, but the lightening won't be attractive highlights.

The first step to avoiding summer damage to hair is to start with hair that is as healthy as you can get it. Use a deep conditioner at least once a week and a moisturizing conditioner every time you shampoo.

Before diving into the pool, wet hair with regular tap water. Hair that is already saturated is less likely to absorb chlorinated water from the pool. You can even apply a conditioner before swimming. After pool exposure, rinse hair thoroughly with clear tap water and use shampoo to remove the chlorine, copper and other minerals in the pool water. Always follow with conditioner.

Take time to protect your hair this summer and let your hair's natural beauty shine through all the bright summer days.

The Manta Experience

2009-05-29T20:54:00.003-04:00

You may have ridden park rides and roller coasters before, but you have never seen or experienced anything like this! The new Manta at Sea World Orlando takes the concept one step further to embrace the full experience of riding high and flying from the point of view of a manta ray. Have a look at this video for a taste of the excitement.

Isn't that amazing?

The first thing that guests to Manta experience are 10 floor-to-ceiling aquariums with more than 3,000 marine animals. Get an unparalleled, close-up view of the mysterious underwater world as thousands of fish, rays and other sea creatures go swimming by. But that's just the beginning, because you are about to experience the the most unique roller coaster ride you can imagine. Then, strapped in face down, you go flying through the air with climbs, dives and twists - just like a manta ray gliding through the ocean. For enthusiasts, the Manta is the ultimate roller coaster experience.

And here's a little secret to getting your very own "Front-of-the-line" pass to ride the Manta. Just visit the Manta page to follow through the six games and quizzes to get your own pass to unsurpassed fun. All the activities are entertaining and if don't worry about the quiz on mantas, there are answers throughout the site. Two activities will get you a complimentary electronic photograph from your Manta ride but complete all six and go to the head of the line for this amazing ride.

For updates direct from SeaWorld, you can follow on your Twitter account at @RealShamu.

Pink and Gold for Shine and Glow

2009-05-28T19:12:00.000-04:00

Summer makeup is all about healthy glow during the day and shimmer at night. Gold and bronze are obvious choices, but how about something a little less obvious but a perfect blend for a summer glow? Pink and gold blend wonderfully and there's so many ways to use them.

How about this Pink Gold shimmer powder by Makeup Forever from Sephora? This can multi-purpose powder can be used for eyeshadow, over lipstick or anywhere your face needs a bit of light and shimmer. Use a slightly damp brush for more intense color.

Another marvellously metallic color for eyes is Pink Gold Metallic Creme Eye Colour from Laura Mercier. This is a versatile product as well. Wear it under regular eyeshadow for just a shimmer effect or use as eye color and set with a light application of translucent powder. The wear is long, the look is fabulous.

Planet Togs

2009-05-26T18:15:00.003-04:00

After going through rack after rack of clothing at your local shops and boutiques, do you ever yearn for something completely different? Something that no one else has, something from a fresh, new designer that will make all your friends jealous and demand to know where you got it?

Then you really need to get over to PlanetTogs, an e-boutique that carries designs from new, up and coming designers who haven't yet been introduced to America. You will find clothes from designers that don't fit the molds, but break them for good with innovative ideas that translate to some of the most unique clothing designs you have ever seen.

This swingy dress with it's delicate layers, great movement and sparkling accents is a vision in gold and is my personal pick. If I had an important soiree to attend, wouldn't it be great to show up in something that is both sexy and soft and never worry that that I would experience that horrible feeling of showing up in the same dress as someone else?

There's no danger of that happening when you shop at Planet Togs. These designs are new and not available in the usual boutiques and specialty clothing stores your friends, acquaintances and business colleagues are frequenting. Because these designers are new doesn't mean they don't have excellent experience and credentials, and the designs speak for themselves. If you're going to treat yourself to one designer outfit this year, get it at Planet Togs.

Baby Shampoo Contains Carcinogens

2009-05-26T11:42:00.002-04:00

For decades mothers have trusted Johnson & Johnson Baby Shampoo to gently cleanse their precious ones' hair. It's even the number one choice of hospitals. But the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics sent a letter this week to Johnson& Johnson asking them to remove two harmful chemicals from their formula.

According tests by an independent laboratory, Johnson's baby shampoo had ad 210 parts per million of formaldehyde and a low level of 1,4-dioxane. Formaldehyde and 1,4 dioxane are both probable human carcinogens and formaldehyde is also a skin and eye irritant.

Although the levels are low enough that some may deem them safe, Dr. Sidney Wolfe, acting director of consumer group Public Citizen, said, "Generally with carcinogens, there isn't any safe level."

The FDA does not regulate cosmetics, but in Japan where the product is sold, formaldehyde is prohibited. It is noted that the Johnson's baby shampoo formula sold in Japan does not release formaldehyde.

Ultra50 Mbps Phatband from Charter

2009-05-24T23:38:00.003-04:00

How fast is your internet connection? Remember the days of dial-up and those interminable waits for each and every web page to load? When DSL came along, it made dial-up seem like slow torture. What if you could get broadband so fast, it left DSL in the dust?

Charter has introduced its amazing Ultra60 Mbps Phatband in St. Louis and will be rolling it out to other areas throughout this year. For gamers and those who need high speed, Ultra60 Mbps is the way to the ultimate internet experience.

What can you do faster at 60Mbps? Just check out the Ultra60 Information Page. Stream movies and videos the way they are supposed to be seen, without all those stops and starts. Download files, music, and photos at lightning speed. A connection this fast lets you do all the things you want to do on the internet, without any of the waiting that you don't want to do.

Okay, now you're wondering how to get this Ultra60 Mbps for yourself. It's easy to check for availability in your area by calling Charter. For the latest updates on all of Charter's great services, follow Charter’s Twitter Feed. Phatband is here and the internet will never be the same, it will be better.

Varicose Veins - Lower Your Risk

2009-05-23T16:47:00.001-04:00

No woman wants varicose veins but up to 55% of all women develop and suffer from them. There are some genetic factors involved, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk of developing varicose veins and spider veins.

When blood is returning to the heart from the lower body, it has to travel back up the veins. Veins have flaps that keep the blood from flowing backwards as it goes up the legs. However, if the flaps are weak, blood can flow backwards and collect in the vein. When the blood pools and enlarges the vein, it can cause a varicose or spider vein to appear. Spider veins on the face are often caused by sun exposure.

There are many contributing factors that cause varicose veins, such as hormonal changes, increasing age, pregnancy and heredity. But because your risk of having varicose veins also increases with being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle, there are some changes you can take that may help.

* Exercise regularly. This will improve circulation. Walking is excellent exercise.
* Control your weight
* Elevate your legs when resting as much as possible.
* Do not cross your legs when sitting.
* Do not stand or sit for long periods of time. If you do have to sit for long periods, take occasional breaks to get up and walk around.
* Wear elastic support stockings to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
* Eat a low-salt diet rich in high-fiber foods. Too much salt can cause legs and feet to swell. Fiber reduces the incidence of constipation, which also contributes to devolopment of varicose veins.

Best Prices on Bridal Gowns

2009-05-20T10:36:00.001-04:00

Did you know that June is the most popular month for weddings? Blue skies and sunshine make it an attractive time for a wedding whether you are planning an outdoor wedding or an indoor one. The weather is unlikely to disappoint. But setting the date for the big event is only the first step. The most pressing issue on the bride's mind is going to be finding the right bridal gown.

Choosing your wedding dress and your bridesmaid dresses is one of the most important decisions you will make. You need a dress that expresses your individual personality and style. Whether you love the classic white lace or something sleek and modern, you also have a budget to keep in mind.

When looking for the best bridal prices where else would you go but bestbridalprices.com? There's a huge selection of designers, styles and colors in both bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses. Make your dream wedding a reality with the stunning styles at bestbridalprices.com.

Bee-ing Beautiful

2009-05-18T17:49:00.000-04:00

When summer arrives, so do insects and most of us tend to think of them as pests. But many insects provide invaluable services to mankind, for instance, the pollenization of plants by bees. But you may not have linked a healthy bee population with the availability and quality of cosmetics.

In the UK, the numbers of the honeybee have dropped 80% in some areas and according to this article in Marie Claire, the resultant drop in beeswax production will affect 643 brands of mascara, 589 lipsticks and 4532 moisturizers. The products affected are produced by manufacturers such as L'Oreal, Max Factor and Nivea.

So this summer, when that bee invades your picnic, instead of shooing him away, be grateful that he's doing his job. We're all depending on it.

To read about the decline of honeybees and Plan Bee, the Co-operative Group's campaign to save the bee, go here.

Man Delivers Baby with help from Youtube

2009-05-17T20:53:00.000-04:00

I always say "you can find anything on the internet". Marc Stephens of Cornwall, England proved just that when he decided to Google information on how to deliver a baby and watched a couple of midwife videos on Youtube. His new knowledge came in handy just a few hours later when his wife, Jo, went into labor.

They called the hospital but were told that there were no midwives available and they should call an ambulance. But there was no time for that. Jo Stephens started to give birth before Marc was even off the phone.

Marc delivered his 5lb 5oz son, Daniel, with his two year old daughter watching. Jo said he was very calm and of her four pregnancies, this was her easiest birth.

The most helpful video Marc watched was posted on Youtube by an American midwife, Laurie Fremgen, of the Austin Midwifery Service, in Austin, Texas.

Personalized Wedding Postage

2009-05-16T11:45:00.000-04:00

Here's a unique idea to make your wedding invitations as individual as you are, and create a special memory. Personalized postage stamps.

The designs are unique and elegant, expressing your personality. You can even have the names of the bride and groom monogrammed on each stamp. It's your wedding, and you deserve to have it be as special as you are. Personalized RSVP stamps will ensure you have mementos that will become treasured memories.

Keeping with the theme of heart shapes in nature, a new love stamp featuring a photograph with a pair of swans face to face on a peaceful lake forming a heart by the way they are posing would make just as good a framed art print as it does a love stamp for wedding invitations.

Of course, all the wedding stamps choices can be personalized. Brides have the option of utilizing templates and simply filling in their own names and other information or they can use the current photo stamps as a base and apply their own customization ideas.

You know that your wedding is something that you will remember for your whole life. Here's one way to make that special day even more memorable.

FDA Issues Warning on P&G plant

2009-05-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

There's been no recall but consumers should be aware that the FDA has sent a letter to Proctor and Gamble regarding conditions in its Olay LLC plant in Puerto Rico. An inspection of the plant was conducted in 2008 by an investigator from the FDA, which concluded that some OTC products and cosmetics were packed and held under unsanitary conditions.

The inspection also revealed that your OTC drug products have been prepared , packed and held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have been contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health, and are, therefore, adulterated within the meaning of 501(a)(2)(A) of the Act ( 21 USC § 351(a) (2)(A) .

Additionally, several of your cosmetic products have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby they may have been rendered injurious to health and are, therefore, adulterated within the meaning of 601(c) of the Act
(21 U.S .C. § 361(c).

You can read the full warning letter here.

You can keep up with FDA warning letters here.

Inquiries to FDA should be sent to: Food and Drug Administration Division of Freedom of Information (HFI-35), 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857.

Cord Stem Cell Yield Increased by Addition of Menstrual Blood Stem Cells

2009-05-12T21:09:00.006-04:00

Everyone has heard about the exciting possibilities of stem cell research and stem cell treatment. Umbilical cord stem cells have been used to treat more than 70 illnesses including such life-threatening conditions as leukemia and lymphoma. Although cord stem cells are easy to harvest and cryopreserve, there are insufficient stem cells in umbilical cord blood to yield enough to treat an adult. Additionally, these cord cells can only be harvested at birth.

Exciting new research, described here in this CryoCell Press Release , indicates that adding stem cells harvested from menstrual blood to cord blood stem cells significantly increased the number of progenitor cells. Progenitor cells are the cells that grow into mature blood cells.

Cryo-Cell is the company that introduced the Celle system by which women can collect and store their menstrual blood stem cells in case of a future medical need by them or first-degree relatives. This service takes what was once regarded as mere biological waste and preserves it for use in potentially life-saving treatments.

This new research is an exciting new strategy for expanding the yield of cord stem cells that may be utilized to treat serious medical conditions.

How to Measure Bra Size

2009-05-11T14:53:00.002-04:00

I have been shopping for bras lately (after reading that the average woman washes her bras only six times per year, I figured I had better have some extra on hand). Bras are especially difficult to buy online, since they all look and sound great, so you might be tempted to go for the prettiest and the cutest ones.

But fitting the right bra is an important task and more difficult when you can't try them on. The key to finding the right bra is to start with the right bra size.

Measuring yourself for a bra is the first step. Get out your tape measure for this. Take the first measurement just under the bustline. Expend all air in your lungs and make this a snug measurement. If the number is even, add 4 inches. If the number is odd, add 5 inches. This is your bra size. For instance, if you measured 34 inches, you added 4 inches and came out with 38.

Now for the cup size. This time, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Round the measurement up to the nearest whole number if you get a fraction. Subtract the first measurement under the bust from the second. For every inch difference you will go up one cup size. If 34 + 4 = 38 and the second measurement is 40, then the difference is two inches so cup size would be a B.

Once you have the correct size, you need to consider other factors regarding support and coverage. If you prefer full coverage, you won't want to purchase a demi-cup, for instance. Also, read the reviews of other customers who have purchased the same item. If a bra has a tendency to stretch or sag or the straps cut in, a review can tell you those important considerations.

Help Animals in Need

2009-05-08T16:04:00.002-04:00

Did you know that this week is the American Humane Society's Be Kind to Animals week? We should be kind to animals every week of the year, but this special week reminds us that there are animals everywhere that need help.

If you're a pet lover, you provide your pets with food, shelter, medical care and above all, your love. One way to bring these same necessities to animals in need is through the Home Again Web Site.

There are several ways you can help. One way is by shopping online through the Home Again website. Through partnership with popular retailers, the Home Again will receive a percentage of sales that are made by its members. When you register your pet during Be Kind to Animals week, HomeAgain will donate $1 to the American Humane Society. For a subscription fee, members will receive access to pet recovery specialists, in case your pet ever goes missing. There's also 24/7 emergency medical assistance at 1-888-HomeAgain. You can even get up to $3,000 in medical pet insurance for a lost pet and up to $500 reimbursement for travel expenses if your pet wanders more than 500 miles from home.

HomeAgain is a fundraising Web site specifically created to help shelter animals. It is a not-for-profit website, and funds are used to help animals in shelters across the country, caring for them until their owners find them or they find new homes.

You'll find many of your favorite retailers here. If you already love to shop online, why not shop where you can make a difference in the life of an innocent animal? They depend on us for so much, please, don't let them down.

Poison Online

2009-05-07T12:11:00.001-04:00

The internet is full of sites selling cures for everything from near-sightedness to cellulite. But not all of the preparations that you can buy are tested or approved, and some of them may be very dangerous.

One disturbing trend, reported on in the Daily Mail, is the availability of such preparations as Botox and face-fillers. Despite repeated warnings that these products should only be administered by a trained physician, many women are buying and self-administering these potentially dangerous and disfiguring products. One Botox kit was even sold on eBay.

Because these products are being sold without regulatory oversight, you can never be sure of what you are really getting. They often come without instructions, increasing the risk of injections that go horribly wrong.

I can't stress enough the dangers of ordering these unregulated, unlicensed products over the internet.

If you decide that you want to go for Botox injections, Restalyne or one of the other face-filling or youth-enhancing treatments, please consult a licensed, trained physician with experience and verifiable credentials.

Win a Free Vacation in Kissimmee

2009-05-06T21:18:00.003-04:00

If you're like me, you are rejoicing to see that the snow seems to finally be banished. But honestly, don't you wish summer was just a little closer? Who wouldn't love to just get away from it all and search out warmer climes? For those of you yearning for some sunshine, may I suggest you consider this opportunity to win a vacation in Kissimmee, Florida?

Kissimmee boasts year-round sunshine in the heart of Central Florida. In Kissimmee, you're just minutes from Orlando and Disney World as well as having other top attractions like Sea World and Universal Studios within travel distance. There's no end to the fun that's within your reach when you stay in Kissimmee. Whether it's a family vacation with the kids, a romantic weekend with that special someone, or you and your best mates off to soak up some sun, Kissimmee is a great destination.

Register now and you could win a weekend getaway for two or even a week-long vacation for four in sunny Kissimmee. Warmth, sunshine, world-renowned sight-seeing destinations and all for free. It doesn't get much better than this.

I love to bring you news of fantastic contest opportunities and this is one you really shouldn't pass up. Go ahead, visit the website and sign up to enter this vacation sweepstakes. I know I will be heading over there to get my entry in.

Don't Over Dry Acne-Prone Skin

2009-05-05T16:52:00.000-04:00

If you suffer from oily skin, and have blemishes and acne that seem to pop up in the oiliest areas, you may be tempted to use harsh soaps and astringents to dry out your skin. But doctors recommend against using highly astringent products.

The main reason is that when the skin gets too dry, it will produce more oil rather than less. I can remember a friend who used to apply rubbing alcohol to her face as a teen!

Instead, make sure you wash your skin twice daily with a mild cleanser or one specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Never scrub as you may inadvertently cause damage to skin resulting in scarring.

Cosmetics may be used, but make sure they are oil-free. Water-based foundation and non-comedogenic makeup products are recommended. Do not pick at or squeeze blemishes, the skin will suffer damage and the blemishes will not go away faster.

Above all, drink plenty of water and follow a healthy diet.

Gift Card Giveaway From Charter

2009-05-04T18:01:00.001-04:00

Charter has come up with another fabulous giveaway to highlight its services and reward visitors to their website. In the past, they have given away prizes like Xbox 360s, a 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid and last month they gave away an HDTV every day for the entire month!

When was the last time your cable company offered you anything more than a monthly bill?

For the month of May, let me introduce the new Charter's Free Gift Card Sweepstakes. That's right, Charter will give away one free $5,000 gift card and four weekly prizes of $1000 gift cards!

It's easy to enter, even if you don't make a purchase. Just visit the Charter website and register for the giveaway, as long as you are in a Charter-serviced area, you're eligible.

But honestly, if you can get Charter and you don't, you're passing on some super savings on great entertainment. Charter has a package for you, including bundled services for phone, internet and TV.

If you are already a Charter customer, there are some special deals and prizes just for you. Ordering any service online at Charter.com during the month of May and you will be automatically entered in the gift card giveaway. You will also receive a $75 or $150 gift card depending on the bundle you choose.

For updates on deals and contest results, why not FollowCharter on Twitter?

So, what are you waiting for? Get over to Charter.com and reap the rewards.

New Dual Eyebrow Wand from Revlon

2009-05-04T17:37:00.003-04:00

If the eyes are the window to the soul, the eyebrows are the frame to that window. Keeping brows neat and properly shaped is the first step. I may make sense to get your brows done professionally at a salon, and then you may want to attempt the upkeep yourself with tweezing or other methods. Once shaped, you want to give them definition and keep them looking groomed. I think this might be the very product to help you do both.

New from Revlon is a dual-ended wand for eyebrows. The Colorstay Brow enhancer comes with a tinted wax enhancer at one end and a highlighter for your brow bone on the other end. The brow enhancer comes in four shades to match your hair color and skin tone. The tinted wax will bring your brows more definition and keep them neat while the highlighter will define the brow bone for a lift.

All in all, it's a neat way to keep your brows... well, neat.

Summer Fashion at AMI Clubwear

2009-05-02T16:14:00.005-04:00

I have been talking a lot about online shopping lately, and one of the best things about browsing online is finding great new places to shop. Today I discovered AMI Clubwear, a super spot to find all the freshest and hottest new styles in clothes, shoes, accessories and more. If you feel like you are seeing the same old thing at your regular shops, then I can guarantee you will find something different at AMI. Looking for that new summer dress? AMI Clubwear has a fantastic selection of summer dresses that are sure to turn all heads in your direction.

Summer is almost upon us and since it's time to add some not new fashions to match the hot weather, you should check out these trendy outfits. AMI sports hot looks from some of your favorite celebrities too. Check out the selections under Beyonce Knowles, Parish Hilton, Jessica Simpson, Hillary Duff and more.

This outfit is perfect for hanging out with friends, summer cookouts or a great beach outfit to wear over your swimsuit. The color is bound to show off your newly acquired tan. It's bold, colorful, versatile and looks oh-so-comfy.

I really enjoyed looking through their summer shoes, they have everything from casual flats to dress heels. There are sweet deals on clearance items, too. I also found trendy hair accessories, even makeup and makeup tools at very reasonable prices.

The site is young fresh and fabulous. If you are too, then AMI Clubwear is for you.

Women Wash Bras Only Six Times a Year!

2009-05-02T16:08:00.001-04:00

Women spend millions each year on body wash, perfume, deodorant and other niceties to make themselves smell beautiful. They also spend a good deal of money on frilly lingerie, underwear and bras. But a recent study of women in the UK revealed that despite all this attention to personal hygiene, most women wash their bras only about six times a year. The study was reported on in the Daily Mail.

A bra may not appear dirty after just one wearing, but they are snug-fitting items in constant contact with your skin. The fabric can hold sweat, oils and dirt as well as old scent from perfumes and deodorants. Although they may not look too bad at first, after a few wearings they will start to look grey, dingy, tattered and worse, begin to smell.

Never wear a bra or any piece of intimate apparel directly after purchase without washing it first. Subsequent cleaning should be done after each wearing. A good bra, washed carefully by hand on in a lingerie bag on your washer's delicate cycle, will actually last longer than if never washed.

Scrubs - A Magazine for Nursing Professionals

2009-04-30T16:51:00.001-04:00

Beauty is a concern for all women, not just women with a lot of time or money. Busy professional women want to look their best, too. In fact, finding the time to look your best can reap rewards in terms of self-confidence and self-esteem. In these tough economic times, it's even more of a challenge, which is why I highly recommend this article at Scrubs magazine. There are some fantastic suggestions for low-cost beauty treatments that work as well as expensive products from the department store.

Scrubs is an online magazine for nurses, nursing students or anyone interested in pursuing a career in nursing. Scrubs features a wide range of topics that include everything from personal issues to professional concerns.

Timely articles include this one on how to answer a patient's questions about Swine Flu. With the possibility of a pandemic in the news daily, this is a very helpful article with some great advice on handling a subject that is causing confusion and fear for many patients.

The great thing about Scrubs is that they provide intelligent and thought-provoking articles covering nursing issues - but never forget that you are more than just your job. Articles on fashion, entertainment and even love and dating offer a wide range of interest for the reader.

If you are a nurse or nursing student, check out Scrubs for yourself. If you have a friend or loved one who is in the nursing profession, suggest that they check out this excellent site.

Online Shopping Update

2009-04-29T11:48:00.000-04:00

My first order from Walmart.com arrived. I must say I was pleased in every way, from the fact that it arrived a day earlier than the estimated delivery date I was given, to the quality and pricing on the items I ordered. I was hesitant about ordering online from Walmart at first, but it's become my best online experience ever. They even let me pay through my Paypal account, which made things even easier.

Now my second order from Walmart is on its way and according to the tracking, it's going to arrive just three days from my placing the order, and three days ahead of the estimated delivery date! I can't say enough about how timely they are.

Meanwhile, I am still waiting on another order from another online site. They have very reasonable shipping rates but now I see why.

My advice is to try out different retailers online to see how expensive the shipping is going to be and also how long the orders take to be fulfilled and delivered. If you need something right away, you will probably have to go to a brick and mortar store or pay expensive extra charges for overnight shipping. Once you know the timelines of each online retailer, you will know what to expect and you can make your choices based on your ~~impatience~~ preferences.

Don't waste money on extra shipping charges until you know if they are necessary. In my case, I would have wasted money paying for quicker shipping options, as these are arriving in very short time periods. At the same time, I will reconsider any ordering from the other company that is taking more than reasonable time, even though the shipping charges were much less. My shopping gratification needs to be fulfilled much faster than that!

Spring Clean Your Makeup Bag

2009-04-21T08:50:00.000-04:00

Now that Spring is here you may be throwing open windows and cleaning out closets as you perform your spring cleaning rituals. Just as we periodically clean our living spaces, we should also consider having a look at our skin care and makeup products to see if any should be tossed out or replaced.

The best way to start is to decide if this product is one you use frequently. Chances are you have some cosmetics you have never used - perhaps a lipstick or eyeshadow that turned out to be an unflattering shade. Don't waste space storing makeup you are never going to use. If it's new and unused, give it to someone who might like it. If it's been dipped into, best to throw it out.

As a basic rule, you can use this guide to determine what to keep and what to replace.

* Mascara should be replaced every 3-4 months
* Lipstick can be kept for at least a year
* Foundation should be replaced every 12 months if it is water-based, up to 18 months if it is oil-based
* Nail polish should be fine for at least a year, possibly as long as four years, but may dry out before that time if not stored properly

While you're at it, remember that makeup sponges should be washed often and discarded after a few weeks. Makeup brushes should be washed every few months.

Shop Online for Spring Bargains

2009-04-13T09:15:00.000-04:00

The temperatures were soaring the last few days, encouraging timid buds to burst forth on the trees and reminding us all that when the seasons change, so do our wardrobe needs. The mad scramble for clothes that match the weather tends to make us look with a closer eye at our warm weather clothes from last year, and compare them with the current fashion.

One of my favorite ways to spend time at the computer is to browse online and this is the perfect time to go shopping online. Why waste the beautiful sunshine by being cooped up in the mall?

My best bargains came from Overstock.com, Target.com and Walmart.com, but I must give Walmart a little extra credit. Not only did I get great spring clothing choices at clearance prices, but I have been tracking the order and it will arrive a day ahead of even their earliest estimated delivery date!

Many stores have clearance sections even on their online shopping sites. Often you can get reduced or free shipping, and that's the best time to shop. For consistently low shipping rates, Overstock.com has the others beat by a mile, but both Target and Walmart run specials where shipping is greatly reduced, furthering your savings. And let's face it, you save on gas and your time is worth more than that.

My advice this spring is to refurbish your wardrobe from the comfort of home. Then go out and enjoy the beautiful weather - take a walk, work in the garden or take the kids to the park. It's healthier and more fun than racing other shoppers for parking spaces at the mall.

HD TV a Day Giveaway from Charter

2009-04-06T19:29:00.003-04:00

The recent switch to digital broadcasting from analog met with a bad reception, literally. With the addition of HD channels, chances are your old television is more than a little out of date. The good news is that Charter has the answer to all your entertainment problems.

Charter is giving away one 22" HD Television every day in April during their HD-TV-a-day giveaway. One lucky winner will receive the grand prize, a 52" HD television. If you live in one of Charter's serviceable areas, all you need do is register to be entered for a chance to win - no purchase necessary. But, why miss out on these great deals on entertainment? Charter's bundle offers for Cable, Internet and Phone services will save you big money while providing superior entertainment choices like HD, OnDemand and Pay Per View for movies, sports and much more. Even if you don't win one of the HD TVs, Charter cable offers crystal clear channels. Your cable box acts like a digital converter for older televisions, so no worries.

Charter wants to be your cable company and they want you to be completely satisfied with your service. Pay your bill online, get online support, tutorials and the answers to the most frequently asked questions - whatever you need, Charter is there to help. You can even follow Charter on Twitter.

Charter is the cable company with great service and fun giveaways. Last year, one lucky Charter customer drove away in a brand new 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid. This year, you could be one of the lucky ones who wins a brand new HD TV. So, what are you waiting for?

Your Lipstick Could Save Your Life

2009-04-06T14:48:00.004-04:00

Wearing makeup could save lives, according to a study at the University of St. Etienne in France. Women who wear makeup daily have better balance and suffer fewer falls.

I had to check the date on the report the first time I read this, to make sure it wasn't an April Fool's joke, but after I thought about it for a while, it made perfect sense. Women who take the time to put on their makeup just feel more confident.

The study of 100 women between the ages of 65 and 85 found that women who wore makeup just carried themselves differently. The research was initially conducted to measure self-esteem, the data on falls and injuries emerged during the course of the study.

Dr Patricia Pineau, director of research communications at the cosmetics company L'Oreal Group, led the study. According to Dr. Pineau, 'These women stood up straight and suffered fewer falls. They held themselves differently to those who did not wear make-up.'

So if you want to improve your balance and coordination, take time to put on your lipstick. It may save your life.

Where to Find Web Site Hosting Reviews

2009-04-06T11:43:00.000-04:00

With the job market getting tighter and so many women looking for a way to make money and still spend more time with family, more and more of them are considering self-employment through small businesses and through enterprise on the Internet. Whether it's blogging, operating an online store or simply advertising for your business, your net presence is important.

Before you can get your website up and running, you need to make some basic choices about hosting. Here is an excellent article on how to decide if you should use free hosting or paid web hosting and the factors you need to consider in making that decision.

If you've decided on paid hosting, then you want to be sure you are getting the right services and tech support for the right price. If you have never used a web hosting service before, you will need some guidance in choosing the one that best serves your needs.

It is best to check with a review of web site hosting services, like the reviews available at WebHostingGeeks.com. Here you can review the costs of a particular host and see their choices for the top ten hosting services. You will also find useful information about setting up and maintaining your website on their blog.

Remember, once you choose a web host, you will have committed yourself for a specific length of time. Do the research first, and make sure you have chosen the right hosting for your needs.

Dying to be Bootyful?

2009-04-06T11:09:00.002-04:00

In the news recently is the tragic death of a New York woman from illegal silicone injections administered by an unlicensed friend. Fiordaliza Pichardo was unhappy with the size and shape of her thighs and buttocks. Despite her husband's protestations that she was beautiful and attractive, Pichardo had been regularly receiving silicone injections. The friend, Elsa Then, is a cosmetologist but is not licensed for what amounts to cosmetic surgery.

The day after the injections, Pichardo started having trouble breathing and discomfort in her chest. Apparently the silicone had caused a pulmonary embolism, having traveled to her lungs and clotted there.

This follows on the heels of two cases in Tampa of women who were getting silicone injections which were administered illegally, to enhance their buttocks. Both women were hospitalized and nearly died from the procedure.

In the quest for beauty, women are being victimized by their own low self-image. Once, women wanted to reduce the size of their derriere, but these days everyone wants to be bootylicious. The problem lies not in the cost of cosmetic procedures that put legal and safe surgery out of the reach of many women, it's the pervasiveness of ideals of beauty that convince women that whatever they are, it's not good enough.

The moral of these stories is clearly that going for cut-rate or store-front cosmetic procedures is dangerous. In addition to the stories of women who were horribly scarred and disfigured by illegal cosmetic procedures, there is also the possibility of serious health risks.

Deals on Home Alarm Systems

2009-04-03T16:11:00.002-04:00

Most of my life has been lived in a quiet, small town with a very low crime rate. So when I moved to a larger city, into an apartment complex that had a bad reputation when it came to car theft, I was a little nervous.

When my car was broken into, I got even more nervous. I worried about the security of my apartment as well. The windows didn't lock and the locks on the apartment doors looked as if they couldn't hold off anyone determined to get in. Truth is, locks won't keep anyone out if they want to get in badly enough. The funny thing is that I never had a break-in or theft until after I moved back to my small hometown. Thinking you are safe, isn't the same as being safe.

What might have saved me the loss of my computer and all the tense and sleepless nights that followed is a wireless security system. These systems with motion detectors and monitoring allow for a peace of mind that you can't get from locks or deadbolts alone.

I was suprised at how affordable they are. For less than most cheap cell phone plans cost per month, you can get a wireless security system with monitoring and no upfront costs from Protect America.

Your peace of mind is worth so much, but it won't cost you a lot to protect it with a package from Protect America.

Lacura at Aldi - Skin Care under $5

2009-03-30T12:37:00.001-04:00

Last year I wrote about a skin cream that outperformed expensive brands like Olay Regenerist but cost only about $4.00 a jar. The amazing thing about the Siana Moisturising Anti-Wrinkle cream was that it was sold exclusively in a grocery store chain in the UK. Well, that same store chain, Aldi, has expanded both its market and its skin care line. Aldi is opening stores across the US and offering a bargain brand of skin care and cosmetics, all of which cost less than $5.

The Lacura line of cosmetics includes moisturizing creams, cleansers and toners as well as separate products for sensitive areas like lips and eyes.

Aldi's is famous for their rock-bottom prices, which are made possible by their no-frills approach to retailing. Shoppers pack their own orders and there are no fancy displays.

To find out more about Lacura, visit their website.

To find out if there is an Aldi near you, use their store locator .

There are Aldi locations in two bordering states, but you can be sure I will be keeping my eyes open for one to open near me. In this economy, finding quality products for less is more important than ever.

Essential Fashion Items

2009-03-24T22:27:00.001-04:00

Fashion changes every season, with new fads and hot trends. But true style is about more than just the latest looks on the catwalks. Some items are true classics, and there are some timeless items that no closet is complete without.

* The Little Black Dress - This should go without saying. This item can be dressed up or down for business, casual or the most sophisticated evening look. No wardrobe is complete without it.

* The Right Pair of Jeans - By right, I don't mean the latest colors or waist height, I mean the right style for your figure. Don't go for the lowest rise jean, go for something classic. Medium rise with a relaxed fit and a boot cut leg.

* Tailored Jacket - Choose one that is slightly fitted and isn't too long, but rides at the hips. A jacket can be worn with jeans to dress up a casual look or with dress pants or skirt for a business meeting.

* A Good Bra - Most women are wearing the wrong bra. Whether it was chosen for price, color or style, chances are that it doesn't fit or support as well as it should. Getting measured and spending a little more for a bra that fits right will do wonders for your figure and the way all your other clothes fit.

* A Great Pair of Shoes - There's no point in adding clothing items that are on the cutting edge of style if your shoes are boring and don't set off your outfit. Again, spending a little more can get you shoes that will fit better, look better and last longer. Try something with a medium heel that will go well with jeans or a dress, black is best.

* Your favorite here - Everyone has at least one favorite item of clothing that just feels right. Maybe it has sentimental value, holds precious memories of a happy day or is just too cool to let go of, regardless of whether it's in style or not.

The key to fashion sense is not being swayed by every trend or fad. Pick up the ones that work for you, the ones that fit with your lifestyle and image of yourself. Follow the fashion fun, but always be true to who you really are. And check your closet for the basic style essentials.

Amazing Offer from Dish Network

2009-03-24T13:29:00.002-04:00

It could be you thought you got a pretty good deal when you signed up for cable, and maybe it was the best deal around at the time. Chances are though, you're finding your cable bill is becoming more and more of a financial burden every month. Even basic cable is costly, but the price goes up and up with every tier of channels. Just imagine how high it goes if you decide to add HBO or any other movie network?

If you've been looking for a better deal or wondered if satellite could save you money, then you will want to see this amazing offer from Dish Network.

I don't know what your cable bill is now, but I know it's more than $9.99 per month. What about premium channels? Dish Network is offering 15 premium movie channels, including HBO and Starz, free for three months. Is that enough to make you consider switching? How about 5 premium movie channels from Cinemax for just one penny per month for 12 months? That's a huge savings.

Think what you can do with the extra money in your budget that you used to hand over to the cable company. Here's a way to reduce your entertainment expenses while maximizing your entertainment value. You really can get it all, for less.

Numbers of Cosmetic Surgeries Down

2009-03-23T11:08:00.000-04:00

With all the bad economic news, there's one business whose falling numbers may signal good news for women. Procedures like cosmetic surgeries and even Botox injections are decreasing in popularity. Taking their place is a shifting of priorities and re-evaluation of our standards of beauty.

An article in the NY Daily News quotes some revealing statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery which show the downward trend. According to their study, Americans are receiving 11% fewer breast augmentations, 25.3% fewer liposuctions and 19% fewer eye tucks. Even the number of Botox injections, which are more affordable, have gone down in the last year.

Maybe with tight economic times people are looking at what's really important and deciding that quality of life is not dependent on meeting a standard of beauty that can only be obtained through surgical intervention.

The trend seems healthy to me, and that might sound strange to hear on a blog that talks about cosmetics and beauty, but there's a difference between finding the right products to help you look your best and radically altering your natural appearance because you don't feel you are acceptable as you are.

I am in favor of cosmetic surgery when it's done to correct defects that affect quality of life or when the surgery can increase confidence. But too often, people are having unnecessary surgeries and procedures and all too often, going for cut-rate services that leave them scarred and unhappy. How much better it would be if society started to accept all the variations of human beauty and we all learned to value ourselves and each other for more lasting and important qualities.

See the NY Daily News Article: http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/fashion/2009/03/22/2009-03-22_forget_plastic_surgery__casual_plain_jan.html

Lena - Amazing young performer

2009-03-22T12:59:00.002-04:00

Every generation has its prodigies. Kids who wow us with talent and an understanding that seems far beyond their years. Michael Jackson was the musical prodigy of his generation - this girl, Lena, could be the most outstanding young performer of this year. Her vocals are as polished as any musical artist on today's pop charts.

Lena sang the national anthem for a huge audience when she was only 7. She's been singing and performing all her life and all she wants now is a recording contract. You can hear her song "Framed" on Lena's myspace page. You'll first be impressed by the vocals and the music, then you'll be amazed when you realize that Lena is only 12 years old!

That's right, just 12 and at a time when a lot of young people don't know what they want, Lena has her goals firmly set in mind. You can help Lena realize her dreams of securing a record label. Check out her song and start some buzz about this promising new performer.

Common Ingredient in Cosmetics May Prevent HIV Spread

2009-03-22T12:08:00.001-04:00

A coupound that may prevent the spread of HIV has been found by researchers at the University of Minnesota. And the place they found it is rather amazing - this compound is a common ingredient in cosmetics.

GML, or glycerol monolaurate, is an anti-microbial compound often added to cosmetics to prevent contamination. The researchers tested GML in a gel applied to female monkeys and found that it was effective in preventing the non-human primate version of HIV, known as SIV.

The researchers stress this is not a cure, but a possible means of preventing the spread of HIV.

This compound is already been recognized by the FDA as approved for use in food and cosmetics. Still trials will have to performed to test it's safety for this type of use in humans.

http://www.collegenews.com/index.php?/article/new_vaginal_gel_prevents_the_spread_of_hiv_20340252026/

Dolphin Bubbles - Incredible Footage from Sea World

2009-03-21T15:25:00.001-04:00

Remember blowing bubbles when you were a kid? There was always a contest with your friends as to who could blow the largest bubble, or whose bubble would last the longest. I can remember chasing bubbles and blowing air up under them to keep them airborne. I have to be honest, I still love blowing bubbles. But if you think recreational bubbles is strictly a human game, you've got to see this video that originally aired on ABC's World News with Charles Gibson. If you thought you were a bubblemaster, you should check out these dolphin bubbles:

Isn't that incredible? These clever dolphins at Sea World are captured here on tape, blowing the most incredible bubbles and what's more, they are playing with them! This is quite purposeful, according to their trainers. They have to hold their heads at a particular angle to make the air coming out of their blow holes form these incredible rings. It's clear that these dolphins are having a bit of fun and even the spectators are enjoying the show.

Watch how fascinated the visitors to Sea World are as they watch this entertaining behavior. The dolphins are exhibiting a playfulness that kids totally relate to. It's a revelation to us, as human beings, that we aren't the only species that enjoys games or make our own fun.

Spring Pedicure

2009-03-20T15:18:00.000-04:00

Maybe you've had your feet covered up all winter in layers of socks and boots. When the warmer weather comes, and you can't wait to slip your feet into those sexy sandals, how can you be sure that your feet are ready to be on display? There's no need to pay salon prices, you can achieve the perfect pedicure right at home. Here's an easy guide to getting feet that both look and feel fabulous.

For tired and work-weary feet, there's nothing like a good soak. Fill a small, plastic tub with warm, soapy water. If you have a foot bath you can use that, if not, any shallow plastic tub will do. If you have very dry feet, you can add a little bath oil to the water. Soaking will cleanse and soften. Soaking will also make nails easier to clip and shape.

After a good soak (at least ten minutes) towel off your feet. The toenails will be soft and easy to clip or file. Always cut your toenails evenly and in a straight line. Rounded edges or nails cut too short can lead to ingrown toenails. You can follow up with a nail file or emery board to smooth edges.

Next, use a pumice stone to smooth out rough areas from heels and the ball of the foot. If you have tough calluses that require more intensive treatment there are several options available. You can buy commercial preparations that will remove the callus, but these contain chemicals that could be dangerous if instructions are not strictly followed. To soften calluses before your manicure and make them easier to file down, apply and emollient cream or plain Vaseline to feet and cover with white, cotton socks. Keep these on overnight and you will be amazed at the difference in the morning.

Follow your soak with a foot massage using a moisturizing lotion. For a tingly, fresh feel, try a lotion with peppermint. You can rub the lotion into your cuticles and push them back gently if you like.

You're now ready to polish. If you prefer a natural look, use clear polish or just buff nails to a shine. If you prefer to use a colored polish, be sure to choose a color that will get attention, but nothing garish. Unnatural colors such as green or blue will not look fashionable on your toenails. Coral, pink, rose, peach, bright red or even a french manicure will make your feet look feminine and begging to be shown off. Add a toe ring as an added attention-grabber.

Now you're ready to slide those sexy feet into a pair of great sandals and take them out for a walk!

Evening Gowns

2009-03-17T18:22:00.000-04:00

Spring is about to arrive and with it, proms, formals and elegant social engagements. For all your formal needs, Elegantmart.com can offer a money-saving alternative to traditional retail stores, and an impressive selection of elegant evening dresses. Whether you are looking for a very special cocktail dress for that important engagement or a prom gown, you'll find amazing prices on some of the most beautiful dresses available anywhere. Take this tip and check out their clearance section for incredible savings on some gorgeous gowns.

Braid Your Way to Wavy Hair

2009-03-15T18:15:00.000-04:00

Is your hair straight as a stick, but you really want to get that long wavy look that is so in? Curling with hot rollers or a curling iron doesn't always guarantee curls that last all day, and you don't want the damage from a permanent wave. Besides, who wants to do anything permanently?

The best solution is to braid your hair. Wash and condition hair normally, towel dry or dry with a blow-dryer briefly - you want to start with damp, not wet, hair. Apply a dab of hair gel to help set your waves. Now you're ready to begin braiding.

For loose and tousled waves, you should do one French braid the entire length of your hair. For more waves, braid two pigtails, one on each side. You can go for waves at the bottom only by starting braids about halfway down the length of your hair. The more braids and the thinner they are, the more waves you get. Leave hair to dry and set overnight. In the morning, take out the braids and gently separate hair with fingers or a wide tooth comb.

A crimping iron can produce waves on straight hair, but they don't look natural and heated implements can do thermal damage and cause hair breakage. By putting your hair up while it is still damp, you save hair from heat damage and your waves look unplanned, natural and healthy.

2000 Spring Hairstyle Trends

2009-03-12T17:59:00.000-04:00

Long hair is still in and there's great news for those with wavy hair - the tousled, wavy look is back in for spring. Long locks with natural waves for casual chic, adorned with braided headbands, jeweled hair clips, or other accessories for a little pizzazz. Straight hair should be parted dead center, but if you opt for soft, loose curls, you can go for a romantic side part or loose side ponytail.

For evening, a smooth, ponytail can be both fun and elegant. Buns and twists are in for upswept, evening hair.

As with anything, your hairstyle should be the one that works best with your hair and whether hair is cut short or left longer, is a matter that is best decided by your face shape and lifestyle. Talk to your stylist and choose a style that is right for you.

Beaute de Maman

2009-03-01T10:14:00.003-05:00

Pregnancy is a time in a woman's life that is filled with beauty and wonder. There are amazing changes taking place in her body, as well as changes in her life. But not all changes in her body are pleasant ones, pregnancy can mean skin problems such as stretch marks and acne.

Pregnancy, though, is not a time to be applying products to your skin that contain harmful chemicals. Many substances in skin care products, especially those products designed to treat acne, are not recommended for pregnant women. The expectant mother needs care that is safe for both her and her baby.

Enter Beaute de Maman, a line of products specifically designed for the expectant mother. Developed by Dr. Michele Brown, an obstetrician with years of experience caring for pregnant women, and tested by pregnant women, these products are both safe and effective.

Beaute de Maman products contain natural and botanical ingredients, nothing is animal-derived or tested on animals. Even the packaging is guaranteed to be free of bisphenol A(BPA), a chemical found in some other packaging that could be harmful to the unborn child. Years of experience, care and concern for the safety of both the mother and child have been taken into account in the development of these products.

Celebrity moms such as actresses Penelope Ann Miller, Salli Richardson-Whitfield (“Eureka”), Chyler Leigh (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and Jennifer Blanc have used these products, yet they are less expensive than some other brands.

If you are a mom-to-be or if you are just searhing for a great gift for someone who is expecting, these all natural health and beauty products are just what you were looking for. There's even a gift set complete with stretch mark cream, nipple gel and a facial scrub. Go directly to the Beaute de Maman website for more information or to order now.

Revlon Age Defying Foundation with Brush

2009-02-26T08:14:00.003-05:00

My favorite foundation came with a separate brush that does an amazing job of applying the foundation. After all, when makeup is applied properly, the face is like a canvas and the result a work of art. But because this involves two steps - dotting the liquid foundation on the face with fingertips, then smoothing it out with the brush - it takes more time and I sometimes skip the brush. Someone has finally come up with a system that gives me the same flawless application with only half the effort.

I think Revlon's new Age Defying Spa foundation with the Softluxe brush is the product that will combine the advantages of the applicator brush with one tube, one step convenience. Getting foundation applied evenly and getting the right shade are even more important as we mature. It's made with minerals, Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants with an SPF 18 sunscreen built right in. The foundation comes in 8 shades. But the brush is the thing that sold me.

Revlon also makes a concealer in the same line with an applicator brush built right into the wand. I love the whole line and can't wait to try the finishing powder. I think this is a nice and less expensive alternative to the wonderful Adrienne Arpel Signature Club A line of products for women over 40.

Guide to Public Speaking

2009-02-25T17:21:00.001-05:00

Sooner or later, whether in our jobs or our personal life, we've all had to speak in front of a group of people. Although it seems to come naturally to some, for rhe rest of us it's a time of fear and anxiety. Staring out at a sea of faces, all listening to your every word is a daunting task. Yet for many of us, learning effective public speaking is essential to our professional lives, for career advancement and even important in our social lives.

How do you target your mistakes and learn to correct them while overcoming your fears? Well Martin Ng has written an e-book that will guide you into effective public speaking. You can start by getting the free report which will illuminate the top ten mistakes that speakers make. Everyone can use this book and the guidance it offers to help them overcome the hurdles we all face when speaking in public.

Women Find New Income in Cosmetics

2009-02-25T16:31:00.000-05:00

In these rough economic times, with so many jobs being eliminated through down-sizing, more and more women are looking for alternative sources of income. Increasingly, they are turning to cosmetics - not to look better, but to sell and make money.

Companies like Avon and Mary Kay offer women the opportunity to start their own business without being crippled with overhead. Mary Kay Cosmetics has experienced a 44% increase in women joining their ranks as consultants in the last year. Women are finding that selling cosmetics direct is a viable source of income, because cosmetics still sell well even in a bad economy.

There are many ways to make extra money and some are finding opportunities online. But for others, there's no better job than selling a product that they themselves use and helping other women look and feel better.

Kids Love MagNext

2009-02-23T21:01:00.004-05:00

If you haven't seen MagNext yet, it's a wonderfully engaging virtual world that your kids can explore while connecting with other kids their age. MagNext offers players the opportunity to play games, earn Magz (the currency in MagNext), shop for new looks and engage in conversation with other players as they move from level to level.

I had signed up for an account at MagNext and was trying out the games. I felt quite proud of having gained enough Magz to buy myself a nifty purple paint job with a butterfly on it. My son caught me playing and immediately insisted that he get a turn. Well one thing led to another, and soon we were on separate computers, following each other through MagNext World and trying to beat each other's scores at Spheron.

This is Spheron. It's just one of the games at MagNext and easily our favorite. In MagNext you are a rolling ball most of the time, but in Spheron you get into a racing car and try to stay in motion for as long as you can. More time, more Magz, more shopping for new stuff.

And you can communicate in MagNext. It's perfect for kids to meet up with friends and play together, even when they are miles away from each other.

The graphics and sounds are suitably futuristic and the games are great fun. Kids love this site, and it's a safe place for them to hang out on the net. There's no downside, sign the kids up for a free account and see how much fun they will have.

Woman Weaves Clothes From Her Own Hair

2009-02-23T08:05:00.003-05:00

Fashion is always a focus at the Oscars and last night was no exception, with every female attendee trying to achieve the ultimate in glamor and style. As usual, there were some hits and some misses. The Oscars give us everything from quiet elegance to fashion faux pas. Occasionally, there's someone who wears a dress that just makes you scratch your head and wonder "why"?

But a woman in Romania has created her own brand of fashion in a very unusual way. She's woven herself a wardrobe made of her own hair!

Women grow their hair long for many reasons. Sometimes they grow it so they can donate it to organizations that make wigs for cancer sufferers. But, Ioana Cioanca, 71, from Romania, grew her hair from the age of 16 until it was 40 inches long so she could weave it.

The best thing I can think to say about the proverbial hair shirt is that it's probably pretty warm. Hair basically serves to keep our heads warm and that layer of fine hair all over our bodies serves a similar function. She's also got a variety of colors, since her hair has gradually gone grey over the years. Of course, her closet is heavily black, white and grey.

Naturally, Ioana hopes to get into the record books. She believes her hair wardrobe is the most extensive in the world. Maybe she can even sell a gown to an Oscar nominee next year.

Who Loves A Mystery?

2009-02-20T15:33:00.001-05:00

Are you looking for a fun and educational game the whole family can enjoy? A way to increase your children's reading and comprehension skills? How about a safe and fun way for your school or other organization to do fund-raising? Well, tell me, do you love a mystery?

5 Minute Mystery is a unique idea for a website, unique enough to garner the attention of ABC News. It's interactive fun for any mystery lover. 5 Minute Mystery presents two short mystery stories per week, on Monday and Friday. After reading the stories, members can collect points for finding the clues and solving the mysteries. Each story has identified suspects, it's up to you to tell us whodunit. As you are awarded points, you move up the rankings. You could even find yourself in the list of Top Sleuths.

This is a great way to encourage kids and adults alike to read more, increase reading comprehension and learn analytical thinking skills. Encourage family and friends to join and compete to find out who is the Sherlock Holmes in your group.

The fundraising option is particularly attractive for schools, because kids don't have to sell door to door, nor does mom have to pass catalogues around to colleagues at work. Selling subscriptions is as easy as sending an email. This method provides a safe environment for kids to sell and raise needed money for their schools.

And if you read the case of The Restless Ghost and feel stumped, just let me know. I am pretty sure I solved this case, but I won't say whodunit. Read and solve the mystery for yourself!

61% of Lipsticks Still Contain Lead

2009-02-19T22:00:00.000-05:00

Despite all the attention being paid to cosmetic ingredients and the efforts to convince manufacturers to remove toxic substances, there is one area that has not yet been addressed by the FDA or the cosmetic manufacturers: lead in lipstick.

If you thought that all companies had voluntarily removed all lead from their lipstick, think again. A recent study of the top 30 brands of lipstick revealed that 61% of them still contained lead. The study was conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.

And the brands that were lead-free weren't necessarily the priciest brands. Some of the lipsticks that contained no lead were in the bargain category. So paying more for your lipstick is no guarantee that it will be free of lead.

Lead is a dangerous neurotoxin. It can lower IQ, cause infertility and developmental issues. Lead builds up in the body over time, so even if you are exposed to tiny amounts at a time, there will be a cumulative effect.

You won't find lead as an ingredient on your lipstick because companies aren't required to list it. Not finding lead as an ingredient on the label is no guarantee that your lipstick is lead-free.

You can check the ingredients of any cosmetic product at Skin Deep, a project of the Environmental Working Group. Always know what is in the products you use on your skin. It's the best way to protect the beautiful you.

Shop Fragrance Online

2009-02-19T18:43:00.001-05:00

I love fragrance, and rather than having one signature scent, I find myself having both seasonal favorites and favorites for special occasions. If you love perfume, and live in the UK, I have a great site to share with you.

Fragrance Online has an unbelievable selection of perfumes from famous brands and at prices that will amaze you. Looking for designer perfume? Britney Spears, Armani, Chanel, Kylie Minogue, Beckam, Armani... the list goes on and on. You will definitely find all your favorites here. Have you wanted to try a new scent but you aren't sure if it is right for you? Try it out with a mini, at prices like these you can try several.

If you're like me and you love fragrance, then definitely check out Fragrance Online for cheap perfume. They have a vast selection for both men and women that will fill your senses at prices that will won't empty your wallet.

Be Safe and Beautiful

2009-02-16T18:19:00.000-05:00

From time to time I urge readers to examine what is in their cosmetics and have pointed to the EWG's Skin Deep database. At Skin Deep you can find out not only what is in your makeup and skin care products, but what chemical ingredients may be toxic or have been linked to health risks.

Today I have another great resource to share. It's The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Many people don't know about the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and their tireless efforts to alert consumers about the real risks in everyday products.

Not only doesn't the FDA regulate cosmetics, but many US companies are using ingredients that are banned in Europe. The only way to be sure of what is in your products is to keep informed so you can stay beautiful safely.

Dental Implants Information

2009-02-09T12:21:00.001-05:00

A beautiful smile captures attention, engages people and makes you more attractive to others, both as a woman and as a person. When people meet someone for the first time, a great smile is your best way to make a favorable first impression.

Dental cosmetic surgery has come a long way and there are many options for improving your smile. Consulting a expert in cosmetic dentistry and dental surgery will help you determine which procedures are right for you.

One solution to consider for tooth replacement is the dental implant. Implants involve a titanium screw that is set into the jaw bone itself. Implants bond to the jaw bone and so are permanent, strong and they look and feel as natural as your own teeth.

If you're looking for more information about dental implants this excellent guide will provide in easy to understand terms a better understanding of what they are, how they work and where to find a dentist skilled in dental implants.

Help for Static Hair

2009-02-06T12:09:00.000-05:00

Dry weather is good weather for hairstyles generally, no humidity to make curls go limp or cause frizziness. But when it gets as cold and dry as it does this time of year, another problem can ruin your carefully constructed coiffure: Static.

We have all experienced that static electricity shock after walking on the carpet and touching something metal or even a sweater. Static also is the culprit that makes synthetic fabrics cling to your body or pantyhose. But it can also cause your hair to be flyaway and looking like you stuck your finger in a light socket.

There are some simple things you can do to help ease the static hair problem:

* Use a leave-in conditioner. Hair that is well-moisturized is less susceptible to static.

* Try fabric softener as a final rinse for your hair. Just a small amount dissolved in a cup of water will reduce static cling after your hair is dry.

* Hairspray or a spray for static cling will work. Simply spray on your hairbrush and brush through your hair from scalp to ends.

* Fabric softener dryer sheets are convenient to carry, easy to use and as a bonus, smell nice. Just run the dryer sheet over your hair. It really works.

* There are also ionic hairbrushes and blow-dryers that reduce static and make hair smoother. I have an ionic hair dryer and it does help, although in really dry conditions you will still have some static problems.

Make sure that you keep hair moisturized and healthy throughout the season by using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Once a week, use a deep conditioning treatment, such as a hot oil treatment to replenish the natural oils that daily washing and the dry environment strip from your hair.

Custom Embroidered Baby Blankets

2009-01-30T10:09:00.001-05:00

Here's one of the nicest and most unique ideas I have seen in a long time when it comes to baby gifts - custom embroidered baby blankets and other items. What mom wouldn't be thrilled to have her baby's name skillfully embroidered on her baby's blanket? Prestige-wise, it's right up there, but think of how easy it will be to make sure you have the right items when picking baby up from day care or the babysitter.

You can probably think of a dozen other ways you could use this digital custom embroidery on shirts, bags and other items for every member of the house, friends and even co-workers. There's always a birthday coming up somewhere. Threadsmith.com offers great ideas for gifts, baby items and even self-promotion or advertising for your new business. I love this idea and have put it on my must-have list for future baby showers.

Peanut Product Recall List

2009-01-29T08:01:00.000-05:00

The FDA recall of salmonella-tainted peanut butter products has reached into every area now, including some diet and energy bars and other products that you might not suspect.

According to the FDA, the Peanut Corporation processing plant had at least 10 major areas of problems, including a leaking roof, mold and (ughhh!) roaches.

Be safe. Before consuming any peanut product, check for yourself if it is on the FDA product recall list. The FDA has provided a great site where you can search by name, brand, UPC or product description.

To search the FDA recall list, go to this website.

FDA Warns About Risks of Topical Anesthetics

2009-01-20T08:16:00.000-05:00

Women having laser hair removal treatments often have the pain lessened through the application of topical anesthetics. A topical anesthetic is a cream, ointment or gel that contains drugs like lidocaine, tetracain, enzocaine and prilocaine. But following the deaths of two women who used topical anesthetics before laser hair removal, the FDA has issued a warning on the use of such skin numbing products.

According to the FDA report, when applied to the skin surface, topical anesthetic can be absorbed into the blood stream and, if used improperly, may cause life-threatening side effects, such as irregular heartbeat, seizures, breathing difficulties, coma, or even death.

The FDA reccomends to patients who are prescribed a topical anesthetic that they:

* use a topical anesthetic that contains the lowest strength, and amount, of medication that will relieve the pain;
* apply the topical anesthetic sparingly and only to the area where pain exists or is expected to occur;
* do not apply the topical anesthetic to broken or irritated skin;
* ask their healthcare professional what side effects are possible and how to lower their chance of having life-threatening side effects from anesthetic drugs; and
* be aware that wrapping or covering the skin treated with topical anesthetics with any type of material or dressing can increase the chance of serious side effects, as can applying heat to the treated area while the medication is still present.

For more information, visit the FDA website: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2009/NEW01947.html

Looking for Web Hosting?

2009-01-15T13:00:00.001-05:00

When shopping for anything, it all comes down to getting a bargain - even in web hosting for your website. The best way to find a good deal and to find out about the reliability of any particular hosting company is to check out reviews and testimonials.

These days you can find any type of web hosting you might be looking for, regardless of your requirements. You can even find green hosting if you are environmentally conscious and want to be kind to the planet. You can find hosting that is completely solar or wind-powered. That's incredible.

But if your budget is the most pressing concern, then you might want to check out the winner of the Best Budget Hosting 2008 award from Web Hosting Geeks. Need a blog host? You can review the best hosting for blogs, forums, Unix, whatever.

This is a great site if you are new to running sites and looking for a hosting service. Here you can get all sorts of information about reliability, down time, customer service and ease of use. Especially if you are new to the net or you aren't sure what you need, checking out the reviews will aid you in making the right selection. Most importantly, you will be sure you aren't paying too much and that you're getting what you pay for. That's the definition of getting a great deal.

The Virtual Mirror

2009-01-15T12:42:00.001-05:00

You can only tell so much from a color chart or packaging, and often that makes it difficult to buy cosmetics that are really right for your skin tones. Wouldn't it be nice to see how everything looks before you buy it? Well, EZface has a way to do it that won't involve testers or samples - no mess and no sales pitch either.

The EZface Virtual Mirror kiosk is a whole new way to try on makeup. The customer simply snaps a digital photo of herself and then "tries on" different makeup products by scanning in the product's barcode. Not just products from one manufacturer, but from all your favorite brands like Revlon, Cover Girl and L'Oreal and more.

I would like to see this technology introduced in my local department store, it would make purchasing makeup so much easier and I would be less likely to make really terrible mistakes. You know what I mean. Sometimes what looks good on the store shelf is a disaster when worn.

The technology for the kiosk comes from a partnership with IBM. It even lets the cutomer email a picture of themselves with the new look. Think about the possibilities... you could try out a whole new look, email the picture to your Facebook or Myspace and impress everyone without buying anything...

MagNext - Virtual World Community for Kids

2009-01-07T17:51:00.005-05:00

If you're looking for fun, safe and free entertainment for your kids when they are on the net, you are going to quickly fall in love with MagNext Virtual. It's a combination virtual world, social community and games site all rolled into one. And I do mean rolled.

At MagNext you become a magnetic ball that rolls around through the different levels. There you can meet other players, gain experience points and Magz by playing games or shop for new gear and cool paintjobs to express your own personality through your avatar. There's also a showroom and gallery where you can see Magnext kits or the amazing things other kids have built with Magnext.

I created a character and wandered around the virtual world a bit and quickly found myself addicted to the Spheron, a game where you maneuver your racing vehicle to extend your power and maintain speed for as long as possible. Another cool game that will exercise your childrens' minds is iCoaster where the roller coaster tracks run out and you have to quickly choose the right set of rails to keep from falling through.

There are games and activities that will interest the younger child as well as the young teen. Best of all, it's a secure and safe environment for them on the net so you can let them play without worrying.

Try out MagNext yourself, then sign your kids up. They'll love you for it.

Scarves Make A Fashion Comeback

2009-01-06T16:00:00.000-05:00

My mother loved scarves in brilliant colors and vibrant patterns, and I have inherited many of her finest. The good news is that scarves are making a comeback on the fashion scene.

A neatly tied scarf in a complementary color can be the finishing touch for any outfit, bring out your eyes or just highlight your face. What a wonderful way to use a brooch, as a way to fasten your scarf in just the right way to your sweater or jacket.

A large scarf works even with your winter coat. A wool coat accented by a bright contrasting colored scarf, worn loosely about the neck gives a standard piece of outerwear a brand new look. Scarves are an inexpensive way to add a little pizzazz.

When looking for scarves, look for colors that complement your coloring, your outfit and are right for the season. Heavier or fuzzy scarves are great for fall and winter, while you may want to look for silk or gauze when it's time to break out the spring wardrobe.

Holiday Eyeglass Frames

2008-12-31T12:49:00.003-05:00

It's the holiday season and time to kick up your heels a little, wear some glitter and let your style shine through. Put away the holiday sweaters and sweatshirts and try these on for holiday style - eyeglass frames in holiday themes.

I love the idea of having special Holiday frames. It may sound like an expensive proposition, buying prescription eyeglasses decorated for the holiday season, but Zenni Optical offers several holiday themes in great colors on stylish frames for unbelievably low prices.

Look at these fabulous blue frames with winter scenes of sleigh rides through the snow for only $15.95. There are so many patterns and styles, you're sure to find one you'll love too. Delicate nowflakes, skaters on ice, snowmen and pine trees - these glasses are a smart and sassy way to show your holiday cheer. With prices that start as low as $9.95, you can pick up more than one pair to go with all your holiday outfits.

Most importantly, you get quality frames and lenses in your prescription at prices that you won't find at your local optometrist. So why not put a little extra twinkle in your eyes with holiday frames from Zenni Optical?