Yipeyay Newsblog

The New Yipeyay Classifieds is Launched!

2009-12-05T11:27:00.004+11:00

In the past our Classified Ads service only catered for a few number of countries. Furthermore, they required different usernames and passwords to log in.

We are now working on a new platform to provide more powerful, more customisable, more flexible and expandable for the future.

Our new Classifieds ad site can now cater for more countries and we have more control over it so we can now do bulk uploads.

If you own a shop, a car yard or a real estate business, for example, we can work with you to upload the bulk of your catalogue to our website. Why? To help bring you more sales of course!

If you are the owner or an authorised officer of a business wanting to bulk upload, please contact us.

Yipeyay Directory is Launched!

2009-12-05T11:18:00.003+11:00

We noticed over the past couple of years that many entrepreneurs are advertising their businesses and/or organisations as a whole. Our original classified ads sites, however, were designed to sell specific items like cars, real estate, iPods and so on...

So, we have now launched Yipeyay Directory. It is designed more for businesses, entrepreneurs and service providers to create a page to promote and inform people about their business: what they do, their address, contact details and website URLs.

Business owners, marketers and entrepreneurs can also ask their customers to post a review or a testimonial to recommend the business to other potential clients or customers by letting the world know about the high quality of products or services they received or experienced.

So get on to Yipeyay.Com and list your business or organisation in our directory today!

Note: If you are a customer and if you have been receiving exceptional service or products from a small business or a big company, you may create a page for that organisation, then review them yourself.

Why? So you can help others find the best businesses and service providers and they will in turn do the same to you with their recommendations!

Yipeyay Is Back In Blogosphere!

2009-12-05T11:16:00.003+11:00

It's been a while since we blogged. Recently, however, things are happening in Yipeyay. We have been making a lot of changes to the way things are done to make our website easier, more powerful and more useful for you to use. We begin blogging again as a way for us to keep everybody updated to what is happening.

Climate change 'serious threat' to coastal towns

2007-11-09T07:46:00.000+11:00

Some people still believe that the global warming phenomenon is just a political argument. In Australia, we have signs of global warming to verify that it is real... very real. According to an article from The Age Newspaper:

"CLIMATE change poses a "real and serious threat" to Victoria's 2000-kilometre coastline, according to a State Government report that warns of an increase in sea levels and widespread destruction of coastal habitats.

The Victorian Coastal Strategy, to be made public today, predicts a bleak future for many coastal towns as they come under stress from climate change and population growth.

The report, by the Victorian Coastal Council, says previous forecasts have significantly underestimated global warming's effects."

>> Read the article here.

DVD Documentary: SolarMAX

2007-09-07T12:10:00.000+10:00

This is an excellent IMAX documentary about the sun and how humanity came to understand it. It's fantastic.

Safety Tips for Grilling

2007-07-25T20:59:00.000+10:00

By Dorothy Duncan

BBQing as it is commonly known or grilling is one of America's favorite summer past times. Why grill? Grilling provides an opportunity to entertain family and friends. It is a stress-free and relaxing way to prepare delicious nutritious meals on weekdays or weekends. Preparing meals during the summer months on the stove or in the oven increase the heat in our home causing our cooling bill to increase. To save energy and money why not "fire up the grill."

According to the National Fire Protection Agency approximately 1,000 structure fires and 3,400 outdoor fires are caused by barbecue grills annually. Safe grilling begins before the cooking starts.

Check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line on gas grills, to be sure there are no leaks and that it is working properly.

Never use a match to check for a gas leak. If you suspect a leak, put soapy water on the area and watch for bubbles to form. This will identify the area of the leakage. Never light a grill that has a leak repair it before using it again.

Place grill on a level surface, approximately three feet away from other objects e.g. the house, shrubs or bushes.

Keep children and pets away from the grill and cooking area.

Consider wearing a heavy apron and oven mitts that fit well over your forearm for protection while grilling. Do not wear loose clothing.

Turn off the valves and store the grill away from the house. If you are going to store your grill indoors, wait until the coals are completely extinguished. Burning charcoals produces carbon monoxide.

Many people enjoy the "charcoaled favor deride from charcoal grills. They are very simple to use however, precaution must be taken. When you grilling with a charcoal grill only starter fluids that are specifically designed for charcoal grills. Never use gasoline or kerosene.

If the fire is slow, add dry kindling or try placing 2 or 3 charcoals in a metal can, add a little lighter fluid. Use long-handled tongs to place charcoals on top of coals in the BBQ grill and light with a match to restart.

Don't add more starter fluid directly to the charcoals because this could cause a flash fire.

Dispose of charcoals when they are cold to the touch or thoroughly soak them with water.

Never use a barbecue grill indoors or in an unventilated space. It's a fire hazard and could cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

Happy Grilling! Ladies if you are not a griller, give it a try. It is simple and relaxing. By grilling instead of cooking on the stove or in the oven, you can prepare delicious nutritious foods and save on your cooling bill during the summer.

Dorothy Duncan is a home economist who has a Master's degree in Family & Consumer Sciences. She enjoys empowering women through self improvement workshops and skincare clinics. Additionally, she publishes two online newsletters Badd Girl Training and Life Strategies, http://www.baddgirltraining.com/girls.html

The Solar Power Home And Effects On Global Warming

2007-07-25T20:47:00.001+10:00

By JD Stratis

A Solar Power Home takes the action of the light from sun and changing it into an energy source. The solar power home reduces the use regular power sources in backwoods areas, and is now making inroads to more urban areas.

A Solar power home includes, lighting, architectural designs, and cooking. The solar power home has become still more popular as the price of fossil fuel keeps on rising, as well as the toll it takes on the environment. Solar panels are designed to accumulate the energy from the sun, where it is sent to a storage device(battery) until it is needed by a solar power home.

When solar energy is garnered by the solar panels it has to be changed to provide energy to a solar power home. This can be accomplished by a process called solar thermal application which means using the energy from the sun to directly heat up air or liquids to energize a solar power home. The action of photoelectric application involves the use of photovoltaic cells to change the energy into electricity for a solar power home

The solar power home places no harm to the surroundings and environment. Still, other threats to the environment may affect the solar power home of the future. Global dimming is the result of contamination of the air. It allows less sunshine to reach the surface of the planet.

The Solar Electric Power Association is an establishment of electric public utility companies and the solar power home industry. They united in collaboration to find answers to meet our energy needs for a solar power home. SEPA is a network of more than a hundred companies. Fifty are public utility companies, twenty five are solar companies, and the rest are various types of business organisations. They share experiences, knowledge, and data about solar programs, They also discuss policies and technology relating to their field.

Is a solar power home right for you? There are advantages to using this as a safe alternative to fossil fuel. Solar energy is free. It can be used in areas where electricity can’t be set up easily. The sun is not a resource that is going to be depleted. Disadvantages are that it doesn’t work at night. The cost of creating solar power home stations to store such energy is very expensive. In some area of the world, a solar power home just isn’t an option because the climate does not receive enough sun light.

JD Strato is a freelance writer for My Green Feat dedicated to celebrating individual Feats of Greening the Environment and reducing our environmental footprint.

Home Based Business - It's Still A Business For God's Sake

2007-06-11T15:42:00.000+10:00

By Trevor Kugler

Many people get all wrapped up in the idea of a "home based business". This has always been perplexing to me because it really doesn't mean anything. Just because these things are called "home based businesses" people tend to think that they offer something magical. Let me clue you in. Your still dealing with a business for God's sake! And what is a business? The simple answer is that it's an entity that provides value to the marketplace. And through providing value, money is made. So why in God's name does it matter where this business is located?

The fact of the matter is that it doesn't. All that matters is that you find an effective way to bring value to the marketplace. If you do this, and deliver excellent customer service, you're in great shape. Let go of the idea of having a "home based business". If you want to conduct the business out of your home, so be it. Just don't get caught up in all the rhetoric. When you start to get caught up in the rhetoric, is when problems begin to happen.

You see, many of the individuals writing articles like this, and many of the individuals running ads on television and the internet about the subject of "home businesses" are outright weasels, trying to separate you from your hard earned money, it's as simple as that. Again, and I apologize if I sound like a broken record, IT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE WHERE THE BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED. The weasels just want to make you think it does.

The bottom line is that you want to make extra money by having a business, and the only way to do this is to bring value to the marketplace. Have your business revolve around something that you feel passionate about and you've got a fighting chance. Just remember to listen to that voice deep inside of you, rather than some weasel claiming that you can get something for nothing.

Trevor Kugler is co-founder of http://www.JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country…..Montana!

Become A Better Angler and get $10 For Your Trouble... - http://www.jrwfishing.com/signup.asp

Roland VS2400CD –The Musicians Solution to Recording & Mixing Tracks

2007-04-08T13:24:00.000+10:00

By Andrew Herbert

The Roland VS2400CD is one of the most affordable mixer and sampling systems available to the any musician today wanting to record and edit all personal tracks.

What the Roland VS2400CD includes are functions such as effect processors which will allow any musician to alter recorded tracks and direct recording of all instruments via the output channels. Musicians using recording systems are most likely to need dynamic processing control and compression facilities which are all included in the Roland VS2400CD.

The Roland VS2400CD includes fully functional cut and paste facilities which allow easy editing of all play lists which gives the user full management of all tracks.

User functionality has been amended considerably in this latest model to incorporate a fully integrated and easily understandable control main panel display board. If your dream is a mixing desk like the professionals use with the self moving controls, then this is the unit for you.
One major problem most mixing consoles provide the users are a difficult to understand a recording set up functionality. The Roland VS2400CD has been redesigned to take away the difficulty encountered in early models. Up to 16 tracks can be laid down and recorded at any one time.

The Roland VS2400CD operates also in MIDI control. All VGA Monitor devises are fully linkable with mouse equipment inputs as standard. This makes the Roland VS2400CD almost a DAW. Roland VS2400CD interface almost resembles a DAW unit so could fool anyone into thinking the unit cost the price of a high end professional mixing system.

What makes the Roland VS2400CD stand above its competition is that this mixer can record at six different sampling rates and modes. Ranges start from 32 – 96 KHZ. VS2400CD allows an impressive 10 GB partition at a maximum level but this equals and impressive 40 GB using the installed driver.

The Roland VS2400CD system comes with the option to use additional bolt on equipment which can expand memory capacity and enhance sound recording up to a level only met by only by the high end of the market mixer equipment.

The Roland VS2400CD is competitively priced more at the lower end of the market which allows all musicians to record and mix their music rather than pay the excessive high hourly rates charged by studio time and producers.

If you would like to know more technical information or just purely interested in browsing the amazing Roland VS2400CD mixer studio desk, click on the link below or in the resource box attached to this article.

The Roland VS2400CD Roland VS2400CD

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Why Men Lie and Women Cry

2007-04-08T13:20:00.000+10:00

By Lorraine Pirihi

I've just finished reading a great book by Allan and Barbara Pease entitled "Why Men Lie and Women Cry". A true and humorous account of the differences between the sexes and full of practical ways to communicate effectively.

I've enjoyed the book so much and felt it will be of great benefit to all of you that I just had to write up an extract from it:

Women Talk, Talk and Talk

" When a woman talks she often uses indirect speech. This means she hints at what she wants or infers things.

Women's indirect speech has a purpose - it builds relationships and rapport with other by avoiding aggression, confrontation or discord.

When women use indirect speech with other women there is seldom a problem - women are sensitive to picking up the real meaning. It can, however be disastrous when used on men.

Men Take Words Literally

Men use direct speech and take words literally. They find women's lack of conversational structure and purpose very disconcerting, and accuse women of not knowing what they're talking about. They respond by saying things like "What's the point here?" "Where is this conversation going?" and "What's the bottom line?"

Men then proceed to talk to a woman as if she is a mental patient or will cut her off by saying "We've been over this a dozen times", "How much longer will this take?" and "This conversation is too much hard work and isn't going anywhere!"

Indirect Talk In Business

When a woman uses indirect speech in business, it can prove problematic because men may have difficulty following a multi-tracked, indirect conversation.

Men need to be presented with clear , logical, organised ideas and information before they will make a decision. A woman can have her ideas and requests rejected purely because her male boss didn't have a clue what she really wanted.

Marie's Story

After six months of negotiations, Marie finally won the chance to present her company's new advertising program to a big financial client. The audience would be eight men and four women, the account up for grabs was worth $200,000, and she had 30 minutes to sell her story.
As she started into her presentation, however, she noticed how blankly the men were regarding her. She felt they were judging her critically and, assuming they were losing interest, she began to multi-track her presentation to try to spur their interest by going back to previous slides, talking indirectly and trying to show how one related to the other.

The women were giving her encouragement by smiling at her, using various facial expressions and making listening sounds like, "Uh huh", "Right!" and "Mmmmm" and generally looking interested.

Marie was excited by the women's feedback and started pitching her story to them, unintentionally ignoring the men. Her entire presentation became a juggling act. She finished and departed, convinced she'd done a great job and eagerly waited for the company's response.

Here's the conversation that took place between the male executives over coffee after Marie had gone:

Marketing Director: "Do you guys have an idea in hell c what she was talking about?".

Chief Executive: "No…she lost me. Tell her to sent the proposal in writing."

Marie had multi-tracked her presentation and used indirect talk with a group of men who didn't have a clue what she was talking about or what related to what. The women executives were happy with the presentation and had participated by asking questions but no man wanted to raise his hand and admit he didn't understand.

A woman needs to understand that if a man doesn't follow what she's saying he'll often pretend he understands rather than look stupid.

Regardless of a man's age, a woman still needs to talk with direct speech. Give him timetables, agenda, bottom line answers and deadlines.

Women need to be direct with men in business and give them one thing at a time to consider. Marie is still waiting for an answer…

"Why Men Lie and Women Cry, Allan and Barabara Pease info@pease international.com
The Final Word

This week I focussed on women communicating with men, however there is heaps of great tips in the book to help you guys get along better with the fairer sex. .

I highly recommend you invest in "Why Men Lie and Women Cry". We've even been able to talk Barbara and Allan Pease into making a special offer to our subscribers (see page 2). I'm certain you'll discover some gems you can action immediately and dramatically improve your communications with the opposite sex.

About The Author

Lorraine specialises in working with businesspeople showing them how to dramatically boost their productivity, reduce the stress and the mess in their lives and have more time for enjoying their life. www.office-organiser.com.au, lorraine@office-organiser.com.au

Nokia E65 - The Mini PC

2007-04-08T13:19:00.000+10:00

By Fallon Seabrook
The Nokia E65 was designed with the consumer in mind. It allows easy access to almost all of the key features. It sports one-touch key capabilities, and even though it does not have a front facing camera, it does allow for easy conference calling in audio only. Basically, anything can be done with the new Nokia E65. In one touch of a button, calls can be made, contact list can be accessed, pictures and videos can be taken and muting and un-muting of the mobile device.

With a stand by time of 265 hours and a call time of 6 hours, a person is assured of enjoying everything about the phone before the battery gives out. For someone who likes to keep in touch via email, this state of the art mobile phone supports emails that can be read by all the major email clients on PC or Mac. For a phone that only weighs in at a mere 115g, a person will be surprised by all of its extra features. It has a 16 million color TFT display with a resolution of 240 x 320, it supports real tones or true tone ringtones of MP3 format and polyphonic Midi files. As a key feature, the Nokia E65 uses the 3rd Edition S60 Symbian operating system as its platform.

Other features include an on-board memory of 50MB shared with the option to upgrade to Micro SD up to 2gigs. Data features include GPRS for finding easy directions to almost anywhere, HSCSD, Edge for faster internet connection, 3G, WLAN which enables Wi Fi capabilities, Bluetooth, Infrared and USB to make data transfer so much easier. You get all the messaging capabilities like SMS, MMS, email that support all out side email clients, and even instant messaging. There is also an internet browser that supports HTML, Java games, and a 2-megapixel camera with all of the pre-installed software that will ever be needed.

In spite of a couple of flaws in design, the Nokia E65 slider offers many productivity tools and wireless options in an excellent Symbian voice-centric smart phone.

Get 12 month no cost line rental deals at Free Line Rental Mobiles, the mobile site that loves to save you money. Save £££s by choosing the Nokia E65 on a free line rental offer.

Comcast – The Entire Package

2007-04-08T13:18:00.000+10:00

By Julia Hall
Have you checked all your entertainment and telecommunications options lately? Are you considering a change for the better? When all is said and done, cable telecommunications is still the most popular method of entertainment in the world. Comcast Internet Service, a leader in cable television and telecommunications technology, has continued their development of the services subscribers demand – entertainment, high speed internet access, and telephone plans. They provide the total package in bundles of 2- or three-service packages in an aim to save money and time and offer more convenience to their customers. Technology has enabled Comcast to take advantage of the best services available and offer enhancements to make one’s life simpler and more enjoyable.

The three most popular basic services in the United States today are tv, internet, and phone. Comcast offers digital services to subscribers to give the best quality imagery and audio available on the market. Digital television programming packages are provided and include more than two hundred seventy five channels of popular shows that include local channels, sports and movie channels, children’s entertainment, music channels, and more. More channels are offered in specialized packages of sports and movie programming. Digital signaling and technology enable Comcast to improve television with On-Screen programming, On-Demand features, and Parental Control guides. On-Screen programming lists shows by channel and time with listings being provided several hours ahead of time. This lets you review and choose exactly what you want to view. On-Demand is similar to Pay-Per-View events in that it includes the most recent new releases and other popular events and is distinctly different in that you can view your selection anytime you desire and even pause or fast forward and rewind to see it over and over again. Television services have never been better than with Comcast. Comcast assures viewers that they will not miss favorites with their digital video recorder and TiVo feature. Simply set it to Record and forget about it until you are ready to watch.

Internet speeds in excess of more than one hundred times the speed of dialups enable one to access all internet websites and view or download music, movies, information files, and more faster than ever before. You will get computer security against identity theft and computer infection through software and firewall applications. Enjoy the virtual world of gaming at the touch of your fingertip. Slow downloads and access denial because of speed are a thing of the past with Comcast high speed internet access.

Total phone services are offered for one flat rate or monthly charge. This fee includes all local and long distance calls placed within the United States and Canada with international calls being charged at fees lower than those of other companies. The great telephone features you enjoy but are paying extra for with other companies are provided at no extra charge by Comcast. These services include Caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, 3-way calling, and redial.

One low fee covers all the great phone conveniences. Comcast Internet Service takes great pride in being able to provide the best quality and most diverse cable services to their subscribers. Join millions as they enjoy quality services at affordable prices.

Julia Hall writes articles for consumers who want to find the latest technonoly news as well as digital telephone service. She has written for many major publications about HIgh Speed Internet and Digital Cable TV and how buyers can find the best deals. Let her show you how you can maximize your communications dollar without sacrificing quality and you'll find out that Comcast is the cable service provider of the future for you.

Why Omega Juicer Is One Of The Most Reliable Juicers On The Market

2007-04-08T13:16:00.000+10:00

By Tomaz Mencinger

For over 40 years the Omega juicer has been made with the same standard of quality and style. While providing high quality juices it is also designed to have a very traditional look. The Omega Juicers are manufactured with a combination of the highest quality surgical steel on the inside and a classic white exterior that has the look of a tough plastic outside. They have made the Omega juicers in this way for over 40 years and they will continue to design it that way because that is their trademark look.

Not only is The Omega Juicer nice looking and reliable, it is also manufactured for easy cleaning. Its powerful 1/3 horsepower motor goes at a rate of 3600 rpm. The Omega in the quietest juicer in its market because it uses an electric induction motor. That is because designing it with an Electric induction motor you hardly have any moving parts and absolutely no brushes. Without all the moving parts rubbing together they will not wear out. And that is why the Omega Juicer is one of the most reliable juicers currently on the market.

Surgical stainless steel parts are also part of the Omega model. The surgical stainless steel parts have been polished or sandblasted to make it easier for you to clean it. The Omega is not only nice to look at it is also family friendly. To help stop and eliminate the vibrations that most juicer have this juicer added a unique idea of hand balanced baskets therefore greatly reducing the vibrations while you are juicing. Cleaning the baskets is very easy.

So the blades will not wear down during regular use the blades have been made from a high quality, polished finished, surgical stainless steel. The Omega juicer's blades were designed to give it the ability to float. The vibration of the unit is also cut down by this feature. The blade parts on Omega models are backed with a 10-year warranty.

The Omega Juicer also has additional upgrade options that include filters that help elevate some of the mess and attachments used for citrus fruits.

For more information about Omega juicers, all you wanted to know about juice and juicer reviews, visit Best Juicers.

Online Shopping - The Preferred Way To Shop

2007-04-08T13:15:00.000+10:00

By Rose Mary Online shopping provides consumers with many benefits. Many people have discovered the advantages of online shopping and hence, prefer to use this mode of shopping to buy their goods. This explains why there is an increasing number of people using online shopping. At times, besides being able to obtain their goods faster through shopping online, they can get their goods at prices lower than those offered by physical retail stores.

One of the benefits of online shopping is that it helps consumer saves time. This suits the current lifestyle of most people who are rather busy and have difficulty finding time doing all their shopping at physical stores. With online shopping, they can cut down on their traveling time. Furthermore, if the product they want is not available in the physical store, they need to go to another store to find it. If this happens, more time is needed to travel to the next store. To add to the disappointment, some goods which have to be ordered may take weeks to be delivered to the consumer’s house. With online shopping, all these inconvenience can be avoided. It provides the consumer a faster way of shopping. By simply browsing through the internet, the consumers can find what they want very quickly and can opt to download certain web pages they find informative and helpful. Besides, online stores can provide faster service and delivery. Consumers can get their products with minimum of hassle and time.

Another benefit of online shopping is that it helps the consumer saves money. As consumers do not need to travel to the physical store to buy the product, they save on traveling costs. Besides, consumers may be able to buy their products at lower prices than those offered by the physical retail stores. Many online stores provide great discounts and incentives to online buyers. As online stores operate with no physical shopfront, the vendors are able to save on operating costs and hence can offer lower prices for their goods to consumers.

For consumers who know the kind of product they want to buy but have not decided specifically which one to buy, the internet can provide helpful information for them to make the decision. Through the internet, the consumer will have a wide selection of products as well as in-depth product information. The vendors’ websites usually provides detailed information about the products they are selling. Essential information such as product price, specification and availability are provided. This enables the consumers to make informed choices and buy with confidence. Customer service is also known to be good. Some vendors sent personalized thank you messages to buyers after they make the purchase.

The internet enables the consumers to gain easy access to several stores within a short time. This is a great benefit to consumers who are looking for something expensive and needs to find out about the different products various stores are offering and make comparisons. As they do not need to travel from one physical store to another, they save a lot of time and effort. With online shopping, the consumer can enjoy more convenience in getting product information, selecting the product, choosing the store and making the purchase.

Some consumers who are looking for rare items prefer to use the Internet to look for the product. As rare items are not found in many physical stores, it is more economical to search for them and purchase them via the Internet. Online shopping benefits them as it saves them time, effort and money.

Online shopping enables consumers to buy things that they do not want to be seen buying them.
For example, those consumers who want to present their gifts to the recipient as surprises would prefer to make their purchases via the internet as they are afraid of being seen making the purchase in a physical store and that would blow the surprise.

Online shopping provides an alternative way of buying for people who are unable to travel to a physical store to make buy the products they need. These people include those who have mobility problems due to certain illnesses or those who have children or elderly at home to take care. Sometimes, lack of transport and bad weather can also prevent people from making their way to physical stores and shopping online help them to get what they need.

Consumers who use online shopping have the opportunity to give their feedback and contribute their views. Online stores usually encourage consumers to give their comments and provide forms for this purpose. They use the consumers’ feedback as a way to improve their services. Online payments for purchases are easy to make. Vendors provide payment systems that are convenient and easy to use. They also assure buyers that their personal data will be kept confidential.

From the above, we can see that online shopping has many benefits. Many people prefer to use this mode of shopping to buy their products because of these benefits. If you have not done online shopping before, you should try doing it right now. You will find it easy, convenient and rewarding. After you begin, you may find yourself using it most of the time. For more information, please visit Target Stores Online.

Rose Mary. Freelance writer in various interest topics. Discover the benefits of shopping online at Target Stores Online.

Pocket Watches Make Great Gifts

2007-04-08T13:14:00.000+10:00

By Rob MillerPocket watches make great gifts! My wedding was coming up in 30 days and I was not sure what do buy for groomsmen gifts. After looking at everything from beer mugs to money clips I was still not sure what to buy. My mother came up with the suggestion of purchasing pocket watches as groomsmen gifts but my first reaction was: "Are you kidding Mom? Pocket watches are old fashioned. When I think of pocket watches I think of giving a gift like that to my grandfather or father, but not groomsmen gifts for an upcoming wedding.

I was wrong and I'm glad I took my mother's advice. I purchased eight custom engraved pocket watches as groomsmen gifts and my friends absolutely loved them! I was surprised at how everyone responded to these unusual gifts. The best thing about engraved pocket watches is they can be personalized with the recipient's name or initials along with a special message about the wedding (which my wife-to-be just loved).

The only consideration I had was whether to purchase battery operated quartz pocket watches or mechanical pocket watches. Quartz pocket watches are very accurate and in most cases less expensive than mechanical pocket watches. The downside to quartz is that the battery will eventually need to be replaced. Mechanical pocket watches are more expensive and in most cases they have to be wound everyday. Mechanical pocket watches use springs and gears and they are not as accurate as quartz models. In the end I chose the quartz style as groomsmen gifts. The price was very reasonable at $50 each but I could have purchased quartz models for as little as $20 each.

The next decision I had to make was where to buy them. The Internet has many places to purchase pocket watches but after much research and a recommendation from a friend I decided to order my groomsmen gifts from a company called Gunther Watch located in Carlsbad, California. The prices were great but the engraving options they offered were far superior to anything else I had seen on the Internet. I called the company and spoke to a guy named Scott to explain that I was pressed for time and the engraved pocket watches had to arrive in less then 10 days. Much to my surprise, Scott told me that this was not a problem because Gunther Watch stocks thousands of pocket watches at their warehouse and shipping within 10 days or less was going to happen. It did! I received the pocket watches and the engraving was awesome! I don't usually recommend anyone on the Internet but Gunther Watch had excellent customer service. Basically - everything they said they would do... they did, and I cannot ask for anything more then that.

So if you're looking for cool engraved pocket watches, you should visit their website. I have listed the web address below. I hope this helps you to make a good decision on what to buy for groomsmen gifts. It worked for me.

Rob Miller is a freelance writer and product reviewer. Gunther Gifts is the perfect place to select a engraved gift for yourself or loved one: http://www.gunthergifts.com Personalized gifts, groomsmen gifts, wedding favors, wedding invitations, sports theme gifts, Zippo lighters, Leatherman tools, Swiss Army Knives, custom barware and glassware, Cross pens and so much more are available for all your gift needs at Gunther Gifts. Gunther Watches focuses on pocket watches: http://www.guntherwatch.com

Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Gift Baskets - The Perfect Trio

2007-04-08T13:11:00.000+10:00

By Elaine Lince

You want to send a gift basket to a friend, but don’t know how to decide what the basket should include. You can’t go wrong with the trio of wine, cheese and chocolate. The complimenting flavors are a winning combination, guaranteed to please!

Gouda, Havarti, Brie and cheddar cheeses are often included in gift baskets. The mild taste, and even texture of a young Gouda goes well with dry crackers and a Chardonnay. A more aged Gouda develops a stronger nuttier taste and goes well with red wines, beer and dark breads. Havarti is Danish cheese, soft and pale. The taste is mild, yet tangy. The flavor intensities as it ages. Cheddar cheese can be mild or sharp, so a crisp clear white wine or a heartier red can be paired with it. Soft and melting Brie is wonderful with Chardonnay and dry crackers.

The gift basket should have treats and snacks that will enhance the complex flavors of the wines and cheeses. Cabernet or merlot red wines call for sweetness and salt. The sweetness of biscotti or the mixture of salt and sugar of candied nuts are excellent contrasts for the mouth to savor. White wines call for chocolate dipped fruits, specialty cookies and crackers. Pretzels and honey mustards go well with either.

And of course, don’t forget that wonderful chocolate! Think of rich dark chocolate, with just a hint of bitterness, to go with the full-bodies red wines, and softer milk chocolate with the crisper, fruitier white wines.

This all sounds so good, I think I need to take a break, go online and order myself a basket. Why don’t we look for a gift basket together?

Shopping for Gift Baskets Online makes sense for a lot of reasons. You can find quality gifts for friends, family, or business associates. Just click on this link for gift basket shopping online

Yipeyay Pages World Directory is now launched!

2007-04-01T13:03:00.000+10:00

Yipeyay has just launched its new website: Yipeyay Pages World Directory!

What Is It?

It is a directory site where people can create their own web page on our site. The purpose of these pages would be to provide information or to promote yourself, your business, your organization or any event you might be organizing. Depending on what you want to do, you can create any of the following web pages on our site:

Personal Pages - A web page containing social and personal information about a particular person.

Professional Pages - A web page containing professional information about a particular person.

Business or Organization Pages - A web page containing information about a particular business or organization.

Jobs Page - A web page containing information about a job opportunity.

Events Page - A web page containing information about a particular event.

These web pages are called "Yipeyay Pages". To distinguish them on our site texts, we will sometimes refer to them as:

'Page' or 'Pages'
"page" or "pages"

Yipeyay Pages Directory Vs. Yipeyay Classifieds

YIPEYAY PAGES DIRECTORY

If you are simply providing information about yourself, your business, your organization, an event you are organizing or a job you have available, you are better off using Yipeyay Pages. Yipeyay Pages are designed to provide information to "invite" people to associate with you. The message of the "Pages" are more like the following:

This is me, do you want to be my friend, contact me...
I am skilled, talented and available to provide my services. Here is my CV. Hire me or work with me.
This is my business, we are very good at what we do, consider using our services or buying our products. Here is our website URL...
There's a wonderful event happening. Here are the details. Be there!

YIPEYAY CLASSIFIEDS

Yipeyay Classifieds, on the other hand, make specific offers for people to accept or reject. Their messages are more like the following:

I have this item, I can give it to you for $X or you can swap it for a similar item...
I have a service and normally I charge $X per hour, but for this month, if you call me, I will give you a discount...

PRICE OR CONSIDERATION

As a rule of thumb, ask yourself this question: Do you want to exchange something for something else like money or another item?

If yes, use Yipeyay Classifieds
If no, use Yipeyay Pages Directory

Now, you have more tools to promote! So get started now and REGISTER FREE today!

Keep Him Interested--10 Remarkable Gestures He'll Love!

2007-03-14T20:41:00.000+11:00

By Shakirah Brown

When it comes to relationships, most men have a tendency to lose interest awfully quick. Some may start to drift and invest most of their time in other activities (anything that doesn’t include you) and sometimes a man will stick around. You’ll get to be with him, just minus the spontaneous hugs and kisses. A lot of men view commitment to one woman as dreadful: seeing the same, old girl doing the same, dull, unexciting things. Why not hit him with some new and innovative gestures?

1. Fine, fine like a bottle of wine.

Is it your beloved’s birthday? If he enjoys a nice drink every now and then, present him with a bottle of what he likes (Hennessey, Remy Martin, Bacardi, Merlot.) A beverage he and his friends can get toasted off of when they celebrate.

2. The Love Letter.

Express your appreciation for him in a sweet poem or letter. Mention all the little, wonderful things about him that attracts you. Let him know the appealing things about him that he may not have noticed himself. Don’t forget to spray it with an intoxicating fragrance.

3. Music makes you lose control.

Burn a CD with all his favorite slow jams on it. Or put him up on certain songs or even a different genre of music that he wouldn’t have otherwise listened to. He’ll think of you every time he hears it.

4. Hey, Baby, what’s your sign?

Hit the bookstore or go online and print out a full and thorough description of his and your zodiac signs. Converse about the traits he has in common with his sign. See if the stars declare that you two are compatible.

5. Make it a Blockbuster night.

Have an all-night-long-movie fest! Sit through all the boring, gory, “action-packed” movies he loves to watch. Rent a documentary on his favorite actor or sports player.

6. Extreme make-over.

Help him to chill out and relax. Give him a facial. Pluck his brows. Give him a manicure. All your girly beauty secrets—give him the whole treatment. Make him feel like a king!

7. Microsoft PowerPoint.

Make your man a cute little slide show. Design each slide with sweet, endearing words; short little poems; and pictures. You can even add music to it, have it play your favorite song while he views it.

8. It’s in the game.

Grab some beers and pick up the other Play Station 2 controller. Let him teach you to play one of his video games that you previously had no interest in.

9. Back to school.

Colleges offer a lot of Continuing Education courses. Sign the two of you up for a single-session lecture at your nearest institution. Creative Writing, Public Speaking, Acting, CPR, etc. There’s an array of interesting classes to choose from and it won’t kill your funds.

10. Cook for him!

Swing by the Supermarket and get the ingredients to his favorite meal. Not sure how to make what he likes most? Stick to a dish everybody loves to eat: Lasagna. Spaghetti. Baked Ziti. He’ll love it, regardless!

These 10 tips may be simple, but the trick is to develop an element of surprise. Don’t mention anything, just bust out with it! The mystery behind the gesture is what intrigues him. Experiment with these ideas and come up with some of your own. The key is to have fun and use your imagination to keep him digging on you. True, a relationship requires a lot of maintenance; however, you’ve got to keep it fresh and sexy. Be unpredictable and exciting!

As Darius Lovehall states in the movie Love Jones, when couples say that the romance is gone, that’s not the case… “it’s because they’ve exhausted the possibilities.”

Shakirah Brown is a Freelance Writer. Her services include Writing, Editing, Proofreading, among many others. For more information, please send an e-mail to Shakirah_Brown@comcast.net

Plus Size Erotic Lingerie Shopping? No More Embarrassing Moments

2007-03-14T20:40:00.000+11:00

By Peter Crump

Just because you are overweight doesn’t mean you have to be embarrassed by shopping for plus size erotic lingerie. Women with the perfect figure staff many of the stores in malls that do sell sexy lingerie and many women that are plump feel self-conscious shopping in these stores when they want plus size erotic lingerie.

Well, the internet has solved that problem. Shop at home and view all the various plus size erotic lingerie you want to purchase.

Sexy erotic plus size lingerie, such as a stretch lace bustier with thongs and garters or a rhinestone thong and bra set, are just a click away. This lingerie help to boost your self-confidence and help you feel sexy. Knowing that you are wearing such sexy clothing to work will make your partner think about you all day. In addition to being very comfortable to wear, erotic plus size lingerie helps to keep the relationship alive and well.

Plus size erotic lingerie lets a woman feel that she is in control of her body and her sexuality. When you shop online, you will easily find erotic sexy plus size lingerie to fit every size. Most regular stores don’t carry a wide selection of this clothing, but online retailers are able to satisfy the needs of everyone.

The size charts on these sites make it simple to get the plus size erotic lingerie you need. For example, when you want to order a plus size sexy bra, the site will give you detailed instructions on how to measure to ensure you get the perfect fit.

The best thing about shopping for your plus size erotic lingerie online is that you don’t have to pay extra for the larger size. Many retailers have a higher price for sexy erotic plus size lingerie, but when you order online, there is no price range for sizes.

The order is shipped to your door, so only you can see it. You don’t have to bump into someone you know when browsing the erotic plus size lingerie on the racks and wonder what this person thinks about your purchases. Shop from the comfort and privacy of your home for your private items that only you and a significant other will see.

Buy plus size erotic lingerie for a great range, good prices, and no-one looking over your shoulder.

For a website totally devoted to Plus Size Clothing visit Peter's Website Plus Size Clothing Ideas and find out about Plus Size Erotic Lingerie as well as Plus Size Swimwear and more, including Plus Size Bras, Plus Size Dresses, Maternity Wear, Wedding Gowns and Shoes.

Is your Authentic Designer Handbag Really Authentic?

2007-03-14T20:31:00.000+11:00

By Deanna Key

So, you have just bought a new designer handbag. Maybe you have had your eye on a Christian Dior Saddle Handbag, or Gucci Jackie-O that you know your friends will drool over . You got a huge discount off of the hefty retail price and you’re feeling pretty good about yourself. But know you are wondering- is my designer handbag authentic.

Determining the authenticity on any product can be a little tricky, but if you know the basics, you will be able to spot a fake in just a few seconds.

One of the best ways to ensure your new handbag is authentic is to look at the bag itself. Designer handbags are popular and cost as much as they due because first and for-most they are made from quality materials. Take a good look at the stitching. There should be no loose or missing stitches, the color of the thread should match the main color of the bag and the stitches should be evenly spaced. If the handbag is leather, the logo should be engraved, not just printed on the leather.

Also take a look at the hardware. All of the hardware should match in color and sheen. The hardware should also be free of scratches. Many manufactures, including Gucci, Fendi and Prada, protect their hardware with a removable plastic cover that is to be removed only after it has been purchased. The brand name or logo should be engraved, not embossed or simply printed on the hardware. You can also find the brand name of logo engraved on the strap hardware on Gucci, Fendi, Prada, Chanel and

Inspect the material the bag; lining, hardware and accents are made of. Many handbags are made of different types of leather, from Lambskin, Calfskin, Goatskin and Patent Leather, but it is easy to distinguish if the leather is of a good quality or not. The lining is usually made of a satin material that has a nice shine to it and most designer handbags have the name brand name or logo on the lining. Designers almost always use leather accents, not plastic. Some purses have straps that are specially coated and seem to be artificial. However a quick look at the edge of the strap, usually near a stitched joint, should reveal a leather core.

Is there an authenticity card. An authenticity card is a little card that usually has the manufactures logo embossed on the front and has some information about the product you purchased and sometimes includes a magnetic strip, bar code. Many manufacturers, including Gucci, Prada, Fendi, Kate Spade and Coach, use these cards.

Check for a serial number. Not all manufacturers use serial numbers, but many do. The serial number for Fendi purses can be found on the inside pocket. Simply turn the pocket inside out and there will be a printed number on the fabric or possibly on the leather tag. Gucci includes a small leather tag on the zipper seam of the handbag which includes a serial number.

If you shop wisely, and inspect the bag carefully, you will be able to spot a fake from a mile away.

Deanna Key is the author of many articles and resources concerning desinger handbags. She has worked as an importer/exporter of designer fashions for over 5 years, and has imported over $25 million worth of designer goods. Read more helpful articles and get discounts on designer handbags at http://www.handbag-spot.com.

Bachelorette Party: Girls-Night-Out Scavenger Hunt

2007-03-14T20:30:00.000+11:00

By Sandra Mahoney

We’ve been to them. We’ve hosted them. We’ve even starred in our own. Today’s bachelorette party is an opportunity for brides, their bridal party and good friends to spend a night on the town, a cozy evening at home, a pampered day out, or even a weekend hike.

But like any bridal tradition, the bachelorette party that mimics the groom’s own bachelor party has become a right of passage for brides: something old, something new, something borrowed and something so shocking that the discovery of it by the groom before the wedding is a constant fear. “Do you take this man?” “I do. Oh God if he’ll still have me!”

The party often starts innocently enough at a designated meeting place. There the bride is decorated and armed with props: a veil, an “I’m the bride” t-shirt, a garter, a male blow-up doll, candy necklaces and one of many cocktails. They play games like penis ring toss, pin the hose on the fireman, and have a ‘carve a penis out of a banana’ competition. Then they dance out to their limo or chauffeured van on a nocturnal quest of bar-crawling often including Fabio-type strippers and an estrogen-infused scavenger hunt.

Dares and Duties

How does the scavenger hunt work? There is a checklist of tasks or dares that the bachelorette and/or her fellow partners in crime must tackle by the end of the night. The one who completes the most tasks or scores the most points is the winner. The following are just suggestions. Make your own list as risque or as tame as you'd like.

Get a picture with a cop; you hold his nightstick (3pts.)

Kiss a bald man on top of the head (1pt.)

Find someone with the same name as the fiancé and have him propose to you (1pt.)

Have a man order a sexy drink for you, i.e. Sex on the Beach, Slippery Nipple, Blow-Job, etc. (3pts.)

Have a guy write his phone number somewhere on your body where no one can see it (2pts.)

Be serenaded by a random guy while you sit on his lap (2pts.)

Find a guy with a hidden tattoo and have the bride find it and kiss it (3pts.)

Have your picture taken with mullet-man (1pt.)

Remove an article of clothing on a guy (1pt.)

Do a body shot off of a stranger (3pts.)

The possibilities for a memorable bachelorette party are endless; it all depends on how crazy or mellow the group is and the goal of the event. One way to find out if the scavenger hunt was a success: if the groom discovers a strange phone number on his new bride's backside during the honeymoon, than it was successful! The marriage? Well, that's another story.

Sandra Mahoney is mother of 3 and co-founder of http://www.million-dollar-mama.com a website devoted to helping mothers put themselves back on the “to-do” list. For a free monthly Mamazine filled with tips, articles and special offerings for moms who crave "me-time" go to http://www.million-dollar-mama.com/Mamazine/mamazine.htm

Bikini Waxing: Making the Move From Hair to Brazilian Bikini Bare

2007-03-14T20:29:00.001+11:00

By Sandra Mahoney

Guess what? I’m not the only 30-something woman left I know who's never had a bikini wax. The fact that I’m not the only one doesn’t surprise me but why did it take so long to have a waxing conversation with a good friend. The answer: I’ve always looked at personal grooming as something private. I’m someone who up until my 20’s referred to my vagina as a front bum.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m no prude and no stranger to pain. I like to look and feel feminine and have my own beauty rituals including Venus razors, tweezing, indulgent moisturizers, foils, and the occasional manicure. I’ve gone through childbirth THREE times without drugs and was clearheaded enough to know that my hoo-ha was on display to the whole hospital staff including the cleaning person. You think that would have wiped out any modicum of modesty I had left. Wrong!

A bikini wax to me is like letting the world in on a secret that I think no one else knows about. (Maybe I need to out my demons and go to Pubicholic Anonymous…Hi my name is Sandra and I have pubic hair…). I’m no sasquatch but how do you make the move from the privacy of your shower to stripping down in front of a stranger and assume they are not saying to themselves, “My God, she’s got sideburns!” My friend and I discussed the styles, techniques, and ways to rationalize our embarrassment. Here’s what we came up with:

The Bikini Wax Ouch Factor – Thank you! Might I have another?

We decided that when and if the time comes to make that leap, we’d ease into it slowly starting with the ultra conservative bikini wax which takes care of the areas around the swimsuit line. My friend thought that you kept your underwear on and simply hiked up the sides as far as you wanted the wax to go. I thought similar except you were given paper panties to wear. Either way it would, to our knowledge, require the least amount of discomfort and minimal embarrassment. If I can undress in front of women at the gym, I can have a basic bikini wax.

The French Bikini Wax Ouch Factor – Parlez-vous Yikes!

Next up is the slightly less conservative 'modified' bikini wax or ‘French bikini wax’. Simply put: more area covered, greater discomfort and increased redness (I’m talking about my cheeks blushing here). We’ve learned this technique leaves a narrow line in front and goes very far between the legs, but not all the way to the buttocks. Excusez-moi! Needless to say you’re sans undies here. So the question is, can I imagine myself spread eagle for 15-20 minutes in front of a stranger until I here the magic words, “you’re done.” My friend doesn’t know if she could do it. After a glass or two of champagne and an out of body experience, oui oui I think I can.

The Brazilian Bikini Wax Ouch Factor – How do you say “my loins are on fire” in Portuguese

Perhaps someday I’ll reach the point where I’ll say to hell with it give me the works. We’re talking front to all the way back and everything in between. Some believe the Brazilian to be absolutely hair-free, while others characterize it as leaving a small "landing strip" in the front. I guess you have to be specific when you place your order: “I’ll have the Brazilian, no strip, extra bare please.” However, getting on my hands and knees to have part of it done from the back or by holding a leg straight up in the air seems way beyond my comfort level. I suppose I could try reminding myself that I am #7 out of 15 vaginas and butts on the table that day and at some point they must all blur together into one. I have another friend who during her Brazilian thought to herself, “Sandra would never get this done”…Bottom line is she’s probably right!

Divine Love Making

2007-03-14T20:28:00.001+11:00

By Judy Lacroix and Steven Lourakis

Have you read or heard about the controversy surrounding the story as to whether Jesus and Mary Magdalene were partners or actually married? There are several books that elude to this matter, including the latest best seller, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Let’s suppose for a moment this were actually true. Jesus was in human form after all and he embodied the principles of Divine Love or in other words he was a being of love. So, how would a being of love make physical love? If love’s eternal nature is to keep giving of itself, then would it be safe to say that a Divine being would GIVE love through the sensations of the body’s pure sexuality when making physical love?

What is the body’s pure sexuality? In essence, the body is a universe unto itself. Every internal and external organ works in harmony with each other to assure the survival of the system. The intelligence which governs the body happens naturally, and does not require you to think. For example: Do you have to tell your heart to beat? Of course not. Pure Sexuality is the innocent knowledge of love in the body. The magnetic power of pure sexuality attracts the Divine in another in order to give every quality of Love. This knowledge or intelligence directs the whole body during the making of love through the body’s sensations.

This is also referred to as making love with the Divine in you and in your partner. This is how a spiritual being of love makes physical love. When two partners join with the conscious intent to make Divine physical love, there is no thinking necessary and the love between the partners is then amplified as their vibrations are raised.

How does our thinking get in the way when making love? Thoughts get in the way when certain demands or expectations are placed on the encounter, instead of each partner being in the moment experiencing the beautiful sensations which occur naturally. Thoughts also get in the way when allowed to go to other places, persons or events from the past or to future imaginings during the love making. When this occurs, we lose the connection to the pure sexuality of the body or the Divine.

Everyone has experienced Divine love making at some time or another. These are the sensational moments when we come together without thought involved. We experience the great passion and connection with our partner through the sensations of the bodies. When the love making ends, we produce the vibration of well being and serenity that is recognizable in the presence of others. We remember these times fondly and may long to repeat them, but they cannot be recreated by thinking about them.

You can not make Divine physical love by wanting to recreate the past because your thoughts are in the way. Making Divine Physical love requires you to be the love that you are in the moment and to give from that place with no expectations or demands. If Jesus and Mary made physical love, we believe this is how they would have practiced.

What do you suppose would happen if more people practiced making love this way? Practicing Divine love making can heal and restore an existing relationship or build a powerful foundation in a new relationship. This may be what is needed to end the disharmony, pain and unhappiness that so many suffer from today.

Man and woman have forgotten how to naturally engage the body’s pure sexuality in order to make Divine physical love. This ancient knowledge has been buried under the piles of self absorption and self justification that humanity has been practicing for thousands of years. Giving up these behaviors is the key to freedom and the greatest challenge to realizing the way to Divine love.

When pure sexuality is present, the making of love between man and woman releases energies that are stored in the bodies creating a space for LOVE to expand which increases the vibratory rates of each person. Making love then becomes an opportunity to grow the knowledge of love and restore harmony. This occurs through the release of the finer energies that are exchanged through the organs of love during the making of love. This is really a great miracle and women can especially benefit from these releases, as they tend to store more emotion in their bodies than men do. This also can be transformational and restore man and woman to their true nature or the being the love that they are.

Practicing Divine love making is as natural as breathing once we get our thoughts out of the way. The effort lies in the great undoing that must occur to allow the Authority of love to command our lives. We can return to this beautiful state of being by practicing honest communication and making our intentions with our partners pure. The Authority of Love is ever present and available to us every moment. When we consciously choose to align with this presence, we begin to experience more Divine love in our lives. Is there anyone on earth that would not benefit from having more love in their life?

Those who choose to consciously practice Divine love making can experience a transformation that benefits all their relationships through the realization of something greater than themselves. This is the awesome power of the Authority of Love that lives within each of us.

Judy and Steven share the powerful knowledge of Divine love and Divine love making with the teachings of JustLove and Just Communication, which they created to assist man and woman to awaken to the authority of love once again. You can learn more about these teachings at http://www.justlovenow.com

Hairstyles 2007 – The Hottest Look For 2007

2007-03-14T20:27:00.000+11:00

By Kelly Price

It’s a new year and with it comes change and what better way than to enter the new year with a new look and changing your hairstyle will certainly do that.

Let’s look at hairstyles for 2007 and the trends that women will follow including the most popular style of all.

Long Hair

This year we’ll see the continuation of length with both a wavy and curls being popular. Long lengths are great for women who don’t mind taking a little time for this style.

The focus this year however will be on shorter hairstyles.

Short is stylish chic convenient and its back!

Shaggy styles, pixies and bobs that are very short at the nape have suddenly become popular. Short hair has been popular for around 90 years now and have never really gone away.

In the 1920’s it was seen as the height and the short page boy cut was the height of fashion. In the sixties Twiggy became a superstar and launched millions of short cuts with her great look.

The 60s were a time of liberation when women felt a new equality and power and having short hair made a statement – Female liberation started to gather pace in everything from hair to clothes.

Through out the 70s 80s and 90s, short hair continued to be popular but it’s set for a huge boost now.

The revival in the crop

Short hair cuts received media attention when the model Agyness Deyn cut her hair into a stunning platinum crop in homage to by 80s model Jenny Howarth.

Her career blossomed and many of the top fashion models have followed her lead.

Short cropped hair can be seen on the covers of the major fashion magazines and more women are going short.

Why short Crops?

There are two main reasons for this new trend.

1. It Gives Freedom

Women use the crop as a statement of a new start and a great way to do this is to get a new look and short hair makes the statement I am free and proud.

Many women when they divorce break up with a partner or change career are changing to short hair as a way to indicate a new start and a new found confidence.

Although forced upon her by her cancer scare, think of Kylie Mynogue when she faced the cameras with her new short look.

It was forced upon her but she looked great and was making the statement - I am confident I Will not be beaten.

2. It Saves time

You can simply wash and go and save time to do more important things than worry about hair care. Does face shape matter?

The best face shape for a crop is oval, but you can have a crop that will suit any face shape and your hairdresser or stylist will advice on which one is best to soften your features, even if you don’t have perfect bone structure.

The short crop is for everyone.

It’s a new year and a new start so why not get with one of the hottest fashion trends of the year a new short cut.

You will save time on care but still look stylish, chic and sexy! So make a statement today!

Get More FREE Style PDF's, Video's & Articles

For more FREE fashion articles, video's, PDF style and fashion reports and all you need to know about fashion & style visit our website for a huge resource of articles, features and downloads and at http://www.net-planet.org/index.html

How to Get Your Husband to Help Around the House

2007-03-14T20:26:00.000+11:00

By Christine Conners

If you find yourself frequently fighting with your husband over the division of labor in your home, you are not alone. The University of California at Berkeley tracked 100 couples from their first pregnancy through the child's entry into kindergarten and found that the primary source of conflict during the first three years of parenthood involved the division of labor.

One day, I was complaining to a friend about the impossible amount of housework in my home, and she asked, "Does your husband show appreciation for all you do?" I gave this some thought and said, "Yeah, I guess, but I'm not sure it matters."

See, the nature of housework is often so unchallenging and so uninspiring that I could hardly take a compliment as anything more than a joke. I mean, what could he say that would help? "Gosh, babe, that countertop looks so spectacular, you'd think the sparkle fairy cleaned it!" Or maybe he could give me a wink and say, "Gee, honey, I really like the aesthetically pleasing way you stacked those dishes in the dishwasher. Did you experiment with a different loading technique today?" If he was feeling particularly sentimental one evening, he might call me to his side, look tenderly into my eyes and say, "I just wanted you to know that I sense your love for me in the way you fold my underwear."

The way my husband shows appreciation is to give me a little help when he comes home. That simple act conveys the message that he recognizes that I am not the maid and that I, too, work. Now don't get me wrong. The division of labor should be fair. If your spouse is hard at work all day and you are at home, you can't reasonably expect him to come home and do two or three more hours of non-stop housework every evening. But getting a little help at the end of a long day is surely grand.

So how do we get our man to help?

Sex, of course. Next time you are slaving over the kitchen sink, unbutton your blouse a couple of notches and purr:

"Baby, have you heard about the research coming out of the Love Lab of Dr. John Gottman of the University of Washington? Seems when men help more around the house, their wives are more likely to get in the mooooood." At this point, you should whip your hair back in a hot, sexy manner (being careful not to hurt your back), rock your hips over to where he's sitting, then whisper in his ear, "I just thought you might really want to know." Don't forget to wink over your shoulder as you walk away towards the bedroom.

Clearly, when our husbands help us around the house, we can interpret that as a sign of love, which, in turn, helps us find them more attractive. But here's the catch. When our husbands help, they typically want to know that their work is appreciated. While we are likely to see their contribution as a natural part of their marital duty, they are more likely to see it as a special favor that they are doing for us. This can be a tough concept for liberated women like us to accept. But you'll need to get past it in a hurry if you are seriously looking for more help. So stop nagging. Instead, on those occasions that you catch your husband cleaning, give him a big hug, a pinch on the rear, or a sultry wink-wink. It will help assure that he cleans again.

Now what should you do if you happen to have a man who never cleans? Walk up to him, give him an incredibly juicy kiss and thank him for doing the dishes. When he confesses that he actually never did the dishes, look surprised. Say, "Oh." And walk away, forgoing the over-shoulder wink. He'll likely get off his duff and work a little harder for that next kiss!

Christine Conners is the author of several books including "From High Heels to Bunny Slippers: Surviving the Transition from Career to Home". Christine is a psychotherapist and mother of four who is helping at-home parents “bloom where they are planted”. Visit Christine at: http://www.booksbyconners.com/bunnyslippers.htm

French Perfume You Can Afford

2007-03-14T20:25:00.002+11:00

By Eugene Benade

French Perfumes are no longer only available to the wealthy. The perfume industry has undergone several changes in technique, materials and style. All of which has created the modern French Perfume that is still as romantic and provocative, but affordable to the masses.

Perfume became popular in France during the seventeenth century. As with industry and the arts, perfume has undergone profound change in the nineteenth century due to the development of new fragrances and production methods that bring us the finest quality oil based French Perfumes ever. Perfume is no longer considered a luxury. Finding the brand of perfume that creates mystique and romance in your life is the greatest gift you will ever receive.

French Perfumes are not only applied to the skin. Spraying a thin spray over your ironing board before you iron that sexy new outfit will leave a lingering fragrance around you that would certainly compliment you.

Before leaving on that special date, spray a whiff of French perfume into the air in front and above you. Then walk into the mist of the spray. You will not only turn heads but you will stand out in a crowd.

Let them think you spend a fortune on expensive perfumes. You and I know better. Anyone can afford this “luxury” at the fraction of the cost, thanks to modern and advanced technology.

All of the most popular and well-known brands are now available to you. Give it a try and we promise you will never regret it. High quality French Perfume available to you just go to, QUALITY FRENCH PERFUME to read more.

My Top Ten Tips to Keep Your Man Interested

2007-03-14T20:25:00.001+11:00

By Gina Michelle

1. Don't Suffocate Your Man
I don't mean he should go out to the pub every night without you as this would not be fair to you, but men (and women) do need a certain amount of freedom.

2. Always Keep A Little Of Yourself Back
A certain element of mystery keeps it fresh and is challenging. Let him have enough that he's secure, but not too much that you appear boring or too available!

3. Tell Him You Love Him At Least Once A Day
Men really are big babies on the whole, and it makes them feel special.

4. Bodily Functions Are a Definite Turn-Off
Passing wind and belching are very unattractive, and going to the toilet in front of your man really is not necessary. Sharing should not extend to these habits!

5. Don't Let Yourself Go
This has nothing to do with weight or size - lets face it we come in all packages and who determines what's sexy and what's not. I'm talking about keeping yourself and your hair clean and presentable. This will not only make you feel better about yourself, but also shows that you still care enough to be bothered. You don't have to get all tarted up around the house, just make an effort to look nice and fresh.

6. Be Spontaneous
Don't be afraid to try something new and exiting - find out your mans innermost sexual fantasies and surprise him - he'll love it and you'll probably enjoy it too. This really helps to keep things spicy.

7. Buy Some Really Sexy Lingerie
It will make you feel hot and sexy, and your man will find it irresistible! There are so many sexy and fun styles available on the market right now you'll be spoilt for choice. Look at some lingerie websites with your man - you can have fun choosing it together without subjecting him to the embarrassment of high street shops.

8. Be Good Friends
Listen to each other, have fun and laugh a lot.

9. Keep The Moaning To A Minimum
Moaning really infuriates men so if you have to, moan to your best friend instead.

10. Show An Interest In His Hobbies
You don't have to take them up yourself, just appear to be interested!

Many thanks for reading - now go forth, apply my rules, and keep your man interested!! Or for those of you trying to get rid of him - just do the opposite!!

http://www.sweetheartsandtarts.com

In Direct Sales- What Do Women Want?

2007-03-14T20:24:00.000+11:00

By Jane Deuber

Surely you’ve noticed. Go to any company recruiting or training event or attend any national convention and without a doubt, you will see… women are the driving force behind the direct selling industry.

Now before anyone gets uncomfortable or moves on to the next article, let us recognize that men, without question, have and will continue to play a significant role in the growth of the industry. Men bring a much-needed perspective to both the corporate and field level. But the truth is that if your organization mirrors the national statistics put out by the DSA, more than 70% of your distributors are women.

Why is that? First and foremost, women are natural networkers, nurturers, and jugglers. They are driven by an “inclusive vision” that represents a better life for themselves, their families, their companies and the people within their organizations. Studies conducted by the Direct Selling Women’s Association found that above all, women are drawn to direct selling because it enables them to wear the many hats of individual, mother, wife, leader, friend and successful business person without giving up their most prized possession – their freedom!

Notice that it is not the promise of “big money” or the hype of long-term residual income that brings them “in mass.” Rather it is because a direct selling career meets their very real needs, right now, in a personally significant way that draws them to this industry. In short, direct selling offers a viable and lucrative alternative that enables women to fulfill their roles, grow as individuals and create financial stability for themselves and their families.

Now, more than any time in history, women are putting their high-powered careers on the back burner and choosing to stay at home with their children. Sadly, this loss of a second income creates a heavy financial burden on most households. In fact, it has been said that 80% of all home foreclosures could have been avoided with just $100 per month in additional income – a benefit easily enjoyed by even a part-time direct seller.

Why is this important to you as a leader? Because, according to the US Census Bureau 2000 statistics, there are over 144 million women here in the United States, of which, only 8 million are in direct selling. We have not yet begun to scratch the surface of possibility! We need to pose a “collective question” and ask ourselves how we can engage more women in the magic of this industry!

The DSWA is so intrigued by this vision that they have set as a primary objective to see that more women join the direct selling wave this year than in any year in its history! How can you play a part in bringing more women to the industry and better yet, your organization? The answer is quite simple… you absolutely must understand what women want.

What do women want? It’s a question that has puzzled men for years and is now being asked by every company offering a product or service since Faith Popcorn, author and trend expert, shared that women control 80% of household spending today. This question is such a hot topic that it even inspired a Hollywood movie script, headed by none other than Mel Gibson, who, despite the antics, never truly discovered the answer to the question.

Ok, Let’s begin by looking at what we do know about women. According to Faith Popcorn…

• A woman opens a new business every 60 seconds.
• Women are leaving corporate America at twice the rate of men.
• Women consumers control 80% of household spending.
• Women are juggling more now than in any other time in history and they are looking for a way to simplify their lives.
• Women are masters at multi-tasking, able to switch roles and responsibilities as quickly as they change their shoes.
• Women are looking for work alternatives that allow them to be home and maintain a connection to the world outside.
• Women are moving up in leadership positions and becoming top producers in companies around the world. And the list goes on and on! Whether you are a distributor building a large organization or a corporate CEO steering your company into the future, you need to become a student of the wants, needs and challenges of women today.

Here are some places you can start.

1. Read Faith Popcorn’s book, EVEolution. Never before has anyone so clearly and expertly shown us inside a woman’s heart and mind. Every chapter is filled with suggestions and insights that can revolutionize your approach to sales and recruiting.

2. Ask more questions. It may be a mystery to you, but it is not a mystery to them. Women know what they want and they will tell you if they believe your interests are genuine and well-intentioned.

3. Talk less, listen more. Ask for the thoughts, opinions and suggestions of the women on your team. You may be surprised that they already have the answer you’ve been looking for.

4. Walk a day in their shoes. High heels and stockings are optional! Recognize and appreciate the multiple roles and responsibilities that women juggle every day and let this help you see them for the strong, capable women they truly are.

5. Build relationships, not hierarchies. Women want and expect their business relationships to be rewarding, enjoyable and enriching. Take the time necessary to know them for the dynamic individuals they are. For those of you who took a moment to jot down these words of wisdom - congratulations, you are on your way to finding the answer to this important question! For those of you who did not, that’s OK, we’ll catch you next month. Because the truth of the matter is… patience happens to be one of our strong suits as well.

Jane Deuber is a Co-Founder of http://www.DSWA.org (the only association dedicated to the needs of the independent party plan and network marketing professionals). Discover what makes the DSWA so unique. Listen to three motivating and informative free teleseminars by visiting http://www.mydswa.org/tele_class.asp

My Entrepreneur Success Story - Inspiration

2007-03-10T19:49:00.001+11:00

By Harry Lake

A couple of years ago I started to think that my job is not what I've always dreamed of, not what I expected and, of course, salary wasn't big enough to fulfill all my dreams. I realized that to become financially free I need to work for myself and be my own boss. Either hate it or love it, it's just the way it is. Nobody will become rich working for someone, nobody ever did.

My passion were computers and it had always been that way, so I decided that I should connect my new business with computers. I started to look for ways to make money on the Internet, because I heard rumors that many entrepreneurs are making a living on-line, and I thought - 'Why Can't I Be One?'

Oh, hell I can and I am going to be one, that was the best decision I have ever made. You know why? Because in 4 months of studying this whole Internet Marketing thing I was able to do at least 2 things: 1) I quit my day job, fired my boss, heh. 2) I became financially free, and that's a really great feeling.

Look, I am not bragging about it, I am just saying that it is possible and dreams do come true, you just have to work hard for it. Believe me I did, I used to spend 10 hours behind my laptop just to study, test and figure out ways of promoting different kinds of products.

And to back that up with some proof, I am going to show you a screen shot of my real earnings and if you think that it's still isn't possible, I suggest you rethink your strategy. My life have changed, I live differently, I can afford anything I can, anything I want, I am not a shiny type of people, I am very humble I would say, but if you want proof, here you go.

Harry Lake is an Internet Entrepreneur, averaging an income of see here. If you would like to know how I make that much money online I suggest you read Jeremy Palmer's Quit Your Day Job.

Playboy - Hugh Hefner's Success Story

2007-03-10T19:47:00.001+11:00

By Evan Carmichael

Famous Quote
'If you have to sum up the idea of Playboy, it is antipuritanism. Not just in regard to sex, but the whole range of play and pleasure.'

Growing Up
At a very young age, Hugh Hefner was in the publishing business. While in high school, he wrote articles and illustrations for the school paper. He then started his own magazine called Shudder, which focused on short stories, comics, and book and movie reviews. He also set up a members only club for readers with a five cents per year membership fee. Upon graduation, Hefner joined the U.S. Army and was put to work as a clerk where he spent the next two years.

When he left the army, Hefner tried to fulfill his passion and find a job in publishing. He was, however, unable to get hired as a journalist and his idea of selling a comic strip named 'Fred Frat' about university student life was also turned town. To make money, Hefner ended up taking uninteresting jobs such as working at a cardboard-carton manufacturer.

Not willing to let his dream job pass him by, Heffner continued searching and eventually landed a position with Esquire magazine where he learned the ins and outs of publishing and marketing a magazine. Unfortunately, Esquire decided to move to New York City and close down in Chicago, leaving Heffner once again unemployed.

Hefner's intuition told him that there was an opportunity to be had in publishing a magazine for men that focused on sex. His plan was to publish pictures of nude women – a move which had not been widely attempted for fear of being prosecuted for the distribution of obscene material through the U.S. mail. Hefner was not concerned about the legal implications and had a big plan to get the word out about his magazine.

Starting The Business
Before she became famous, Marilyn Monroe posed nude for a calendar photo. Everyone in the publishing world knew about the picture but no one dared print it because of the legal risks. Hefner decided that he would take the risk and use the picture for the inaugural edition of his new magazine, Playboy in December of 1953.

At 27 years of age, with a startup investment of only $600 and some credit from his printing company, Hefner went to work. The first issue sold for 50 cents each and had a press run of 53,991. The entire issue was quickly sold out giving proof to Hefner's market opportunity prediction.

While Playboy had been known for its nude pictures, Hefner also strove to add well-written content and attracted the likes of Tennessee Williams to author articles for him. By 1960, the magazine's circulation topped the 1 million mark.

Building An Empire
With a profitable magazine flourishing for him, Hefner decided to expand his business into other areas. Two of his more successful ventures were Playboy Clubs, a chain of nightclubs, and a number of London casinos.

In the 1980s, however, Hefner fell upon hard times. Ronald Reagan's election victory reflected the conservative nature of Americans at the time which affected Playboy's sales, the company was forced to close its London casinos due to numerous complaints, Hefner himself was turned down by the New Jersey Gaming Commission for the license to run his newly built $150 million casino, and in 1985, he suffered a stroke.

In 1988, Hefner handed the reigns of the business over to his daughter, Christie who turned the business around. Christie changed the focus of the magazine, which would now feature more content on fashion and entertainment. In addition, she launched Playboy TV and a pay per use Website. Through Playboy, Hefner challenged the rules and societal norms and changed the way sex was seen in America.

Evan is an entrepreneur and international speaker. At the age of 19, he became an owner and Chief Operating Officer in Redasoft, a biotechnology software company. The company quickly grew to over 300 organizations as clients, including NASA and Johnson & Johnson, in 30 countries. He started Evan Carmichael & Associates with the goal to give entrepreneurs the motivation to follow their passion and the strategies they need to succeed. Evan has delivered over 100 keynote presentations to entrepreneurs in North America, Europe, and Asia. He has been interviewed by newspapers, radio stations, and television stations including CHUM FM, CityTV, Global TV, OMNI TV, Enterprise, and the Toronto Sun. Evan's website, http://www.evancarmichael.com is the world's #1 website for small business motivation and strategies.

Money Making Strategies for Non-Commercial Websites

2007-03-10T19:45:00.001+11:00

By M. Shane Huey

Let me state from the outset that what follows most likely won’t make you rich, but there are ways to generate a sizable extra income by utilizing easily accessible tools that are readily available to everyone who has access to the internet. If you are reading this, then you obviously have access to the internet and most likely have your own website, whether non-commercial or otherwise. (What follows applies to commercial sites as well though the strategies of implementation will vary somewhat—but that is the subject of another article.)

Strategy #1) Google is presently, by and large, the most popular search engine on the planet, but there is much more depth to Google than this. Google offers several easy-to-use marketing packages that can earn you, as the owner of web space, a nice auxiliary income. First and foremost is the Google AdSense suite. Google AdSense allows the individual who owns web space to post content-related advertisements from paying sponsors on his or her site. When the traffic generated from your site views the advertisements displayed on your site, you make money. It’s really that simple!

Strategy #2) As well, Google has another marketing suite called AdWords. With the AdWords suite you can design the same type of ad that appears on your site via AdSense and this will increase traffic to your site which will in turn result in a net increase in your visitors clicking on sponsored ad links which further increases your revenue.

Of course you must pay for AdWords, having to set a monthly budget of what you are willing to spend (minimum effective budget is around $30.00 per month). So I recommend becoming proficient with AdSense prior to implementing this second strategy or you may risk cancelling your AdSense profits out with what you are spending for your AdWords campaign.

Strategy #3) Affiliate marketing is another strategy that I recommend for generating good income utilizing unused space on your non-commercial site. Affiliate marketing essentially consists of you endorsing, recommending, and providing a link on your site to someone else’s product. If, because of finding that product on your site, due to the link, an individual were to purchase the product you would receive a commission from the sale. Most affiliate commission payouts are pretty generous. Try to find a product that relates to your website content so that your visitors are more likely to purchase it.

Strategy #4) Sell advertisement space on your website. Contact other businesses that are in some way related to your site content and offer them affordable advertising on your site. This strategy takes some initial effort but the rewards are well worth it.

Related to selling advertising space to other businesses, you might also consider, if your viewer base is large enough, offering your visitors classified ad placement on your site. Again, the advertisements need to be related in some way to your site content. You will do best here by charging a nominal fee for the classified placements.

The above are just a few strategies for earning extra income by means of a non-commercial website. There are more to be sure. But those listed above will get you started. If I may make a suggestion, especially if you are new to internet marketing but wish to implement any one or more of the strategies discussed above, I would recommend first utilizing strategy #1 (Google AdSense). If I had to augment that with one other strategy, it would be strategy #3) affiliate marketing. These two are by far the easiest methods for generating income with a non-commercial site.

Begin by utilizing AdSense and then add one strategy at a time. Start slowly and have patience. You are going to learn a lot in a very short time. Oh yeah—and have fun!

M. Shane Huey is a freelance writer, writing on diverse topics from travel to e-commerce. He is also the founder of http://www.MShaneHuey.com, a business that specializes in e-commerce development, education, e-ghost writing, and the provision of web content. He also serves as Director of Curriculum Development and Instructor with Global Survival Technologies http://www.globalsurvivaltech.com .

He makes his home in Birmingham, Alabama where he lives with his wife Kelli.

How To Quit Your Job

2007-03-10T19:43:00.000+11:00

By Brad Mitchell

There are a number of things to take into consideration before quiting your job. Quitting your job requires a plan of where you want to be. The first step in quitting your job is to put your mind into thinking through the process backwards. Anyone successful at doing this knows, that you first need to know where you are going. So to start, start at the end.

As an exercise you can sit down with a pen and paper, and lock yourself in a quite place where you are relaxed, and won't be disturbed. I recommend grabbing your favorite beverage. Get focused, and then think what do I want. If that is I want to make $10,000 a month, and have 5 hours of free time with my family, write it down. One of things you need to put down, is that your residual income will exceed your take home income at your current job. Then take each are you wrote down, and drill it down into simpler steps. The process of breaking something down into smaller steps, is called Analysis. Anyone successful at doing this, already has down an analysis on some level. Now, break the steps down to something you can do everyday to reach your goal. What you have just created is a map. Very important in knowing where you are going.

The next step is critical, it is called action. Make yourself put the smaller steps into action. This is the key. Go pick up the phone, make a call, email or whatever the smaller steps are, and do it without thought or hesitation. The more you can get in the habit of doing this, the more it will happen in an automatic fashion.

No matter how big a tree is, if you take a swing at it everyday, it will eventually fall. I recommend taking a few swings a day at each of your end goals. By doing this, you will have ensured your success. In no time at all, you will have quit your job, and achieved all your other goals, using this simple, but effective methodology.

B Mitchell http://quitsjob.com

Small Business Mistakes: Are You Making Enough of Them?

2007-03-10T19:36:00.001+11:00

By Rose Hill

That's right are you making enough mistakes in your business? Some of you are probably annoyed at my question; others are thinking "Geez, Rose! If I made any more mistakes I'd have to run screaming back to a day job!"

If you went to school in the public school system in America, you were culturally trained to avoid and hide mistakes, after all; your teachers and professors didn't give you a great grade for your efforts unless those efforts produced great results. So, too, if you were an employee in corporate America you were rewarded for chasing perfection and penalized for making mistakes.

But now you're self-employed.

And it's a necessity that you rethink the whole issue of mistakes. One of the most important mental shifts we all need to make as self-employed business owners is from hiding and avoiding our mistakes to embracing them! And to making lots of little ones frequently! (It's those big mistakes that happen "once in a while" that will kill your business not the little mistakes you make daily.)

Here's an example of one of those business-killing mistakes:

Sam had been doing subcontracting work for Fred off and on over the past 5 years. Initially, Sam had a full workload for his business between the work he got directly from clients himself and the work that Fred hired him to do. Sam had a non-compete agreement with Fred. Essentially Sam agreed not to solicit work directly from any of Fred's clients for at least a year after having worked for Fred, but things are tough out here in the real world this year.

Sam knew, from Fred, that Fred was actively marketing his business to a new department in a very large local corporation for whom Fred had worked for many years. In fact, Fred had brought Sam onto several past projects for this client. However, when Sam was approached by a local job-shopping temporary employment agency about the same gig, Sam agreed to allow the agency to submit him for the job.

Sam didn't tell Fred that he was violating their non-compete agreement. Sam interviewed for the job and got it. Then he told Fred.

This was a big mistake (to say nothing of the violation of several of my Client-Savvy Proficiencies for Successful Solopreneurs!) You can bet that Sam has just eliminated any further work coming into his business via Fred.

Here are some examples of embraceable, little mistakes:

Emailed my first status report to my client and assumed she received it. She hadn't received it, which I discovered in the next on-site project meeting. After that I both emailed and faxed her my weekly status reports.
Bought an indicia from the Postal Office with the intent to save money in my direct mail campaigns through reduced postage costs. Didn't check it out enough to learn that the PO won't return undeliverable items when they are stamped with an indicia. Sent out several mailings to a bad mailing list that I couldn't update because I didn't know how many of the addresses were defunct. When I learned how this really worked, I switched to using first-class postage for my mailings. Now my mailing lists are cleaned and updated after each mailing...saving me more money than I saved with the indicia.
Started a new health program than included walking a couple of times each day. I checked my schedule, phone messages, and email messages before I went out for each walk, and carried my cell phone with me during the walk. But I hadn't started the habit of checking my phone for messages upon re-entry to my office. I missed a call from a lovely prospective client and didn't return it for 3 hours. Not a great way to begin a relationship in business. Now I forward my office phone to my cell phone during my walks.

As a self-employed professional, you grow and mature by making, and then, correcting mistakes. The key is not only to make the right type of mistakes, but also to correct them yourself and, hence, turn them into a non-repeating event.

Your processes, systems, and expertise develop one mistake at a time. This is an on-going process, not a one-time thing. So you need to be doing this each and every day as a normal and consistent part of how you operate your businesses. You won't stay in business long if you hide your mistakes or blame them on your systems, processes, or others.

Try being more aware of how you respond to your mistakes, and to what type of mistakes you are making in your business. Then set a goal to make your mistakes lower-risk (i.e., little) and more frequent. Let me know what you learn!

Rose Hill, Founder and Owner,of Biz Whiz Expert (http://www.SoloBizVille.com) and Team Member of Solo-E.Com (http://www.Solo-E.Com) has been self-employed since 1990. Knowing how to run corporate departments and how to market corporate entities, products, and services did nothing to prepare her for successfully running and marketing a one-person business. That is why Rose created the SoloBizVille and SoloBizU community — to specifically to help solo entrepreneurs jumpstart their business success without all the trial-and-error learning.

Find more articles like this at http://www.Solo-E.com, the lifestyle-inspired online learning and connection community. Visit now to receive a free copy of our special report, The Four Secrets of Solo Entrepreneur Success, plus a complimentary 30-day membership.

10 Essential Tips for Starting Entrepreneurs - Ignore these at Your Peril!

2007-03-10T19:35:00.000+11:00

By Terri Zwierzynski

1. Do What You LOVE: If you've chosen your business because you read that this niche was the next hot one, or because your favorite uncle (or your best friend) thinks you'd be well-suited for this business, you may as well pack up now and save yourself some time and money. If you don't love what you do, it will show...potential customers will know it and will go elsewhere. Is it possible to be successful anyway? Sure -- but it won't be easy and it won't be fun...and isn't that why you want to be in business for yourself anyway?

Instead, choose what you love. You'll know what that is when you find yourself being incredibly productive, forgetting the time passing by, and not being able to wait to get up in the morning to do more! At Solo-E we call that being juiced...but whether you call it being in the flow, or the zone, or whatever, FIND IT!

2. WRITE DOWN Your Business Plan: As a small or solo business owner, you still need a business plan. Even if you aren't getting a loan! Would you invest thousands of dollars of your own money buying stock in a company that didn't have a written prospectus? (I hope not!) Then why would you spend thousands of dollars AND hours of your precious time on a business that doesn't have a written plan?

Write your plan, get it critiqued by professionals, and most important, BE READY TO CHANGE IT. This may seem counterintuitive...why bother writing it down if it's just going to change? Because writing it down makes it more clear...and helps you get to the next stage of learning and planning and revising. It's critical--67% of businesses that failed had no written business plan. Want to play the odds?

3. Multiply Your Expected Startup Costs by Two--or Maybe Three: When I started my business, an honors MBA grad with 15 years of solid business experience behind me, I figured I was smart enough to estimate my startup costs accurately. I knew all the things I needed and made conservative estimates and I was still WRONG! That's right, I was still off by a factor of almost three. Don't make this mistake! One of the biggest reasons small businesses fail is because of lack of capital. Give yourself the best possible start by saving or acquiring sufficient startup funds NOW. Before you start!

4. Make Your Market Niche as Small as Possible: Again, this is counterintuitive--shouldn't you try to appeal to as many people as possible? The paradox is that the more you try to appeal to EVERYONE, the less you will appeal to ANYONE. Let's say you are selling your house...would you rather list it with the agent who operates in 14 counties, sells both commercial and residential real estate, and sells everything from cottages to estates? Or would you pick the agent who specializes in your community, selling only houses in a well-defined price range that she knows extremely well? Ruthlessly define your niche, make it as small as possible, and stay true to it. You'll thank me later!

5. Do Marketing Your Way: The temptation is to choose all the marketing methods that the competition uses. To stay with tried-and-true marketing channels. To place advertisements that you know nothing about creating, or make cold calls that give you heartburn. Why? Because (all together now) "that's how it's always been done."

It's difficult to stand out among your competitors when you are doing the same kind of marketing! So instead, look to your strengths. What do you like to do? What are you good at? Then choose three marketing methods that play to those strengths. If you need ideas, check out 136 Ways to Market Your Solo Business, another article at www.Solo-E.com.

6. Remember the Most Important Ingredient in Your Business--YOU: Business-owner: know thyself. Spend some time learning about who you are and how you are unique. Then let that uniqueness shine through in your marketing, in how you run your business, in everything you do. Don't hide your quirks--celebrate them!

Customers go to small and solo businesses primarily because they are looking for a personalized experience. They want a relationship with you as the owner of your business. If you try to come off as who you think they want, they'll smell right through that and not come back. Be who you are, and trust that who YOU are is going to be attractive to the right people.

7. Build Your Business by Building Relationships: Being a small or solo business owner isn't about sitting in the corner alone. Actually it can be--and that isolation is what drives many out of business and back into a "job". Build relationships to survive! Start with your colleagues--others you know who are at the same stage of business as you, or are farther along and willing to mentor you.

Next, build relationships with potential customers. Ask them what they want! Then create products and services based on their input and come back and show them what you have done. Get feedback, tweak, and maybe make your first sale. Stay in touch with your customers even after they leave you.

Last but not least, build relationships with your competitors. You might be able to do this right at the beginning, simply by asking them for their advice. Surprisingly, many ARE willing to share their secrets if you just ask. Later on, build cross-referral relationships, co-marketing alliances, and other relationships that are win-win for you, your competitors, and your customers.

8. Don't Accept a Customer Just For the Money: This is probably the hardest advice for new business owners to apply. Especially when there is a job, a project, a potential client, just outside your niche, that could keep your business solvent for the next six months. Don't do it! Taking on a client outside your niche inevitably results in frustration for you, dissatisfaction on the part of the client, and in the end, usually costs you more than you make. Ask any successful business owner and they'll tell you this is true!

9.. Don't Do Everything Yourself: It's so tempting to fall into the self-deception that "it's cheaper for me to do it myself." IT"S NOT! If you aren't good at something, for instance bookkeeping, it will probably take you 2-3 times as long--time you could be spending doing things that are essential for you to be doing personally, like writing your business plan or deciding your marketing strategy. Put sufficient capital into your business upfront so you CAN hire help right from the start. Your business will get off to a quicker start because you aren't distracted by time-consuming tasks that drain your energy.

10. Assemble Your Support Team: Start with the people who will help you do the things you aren't good at. Some examples: bookkeeper, marketing writer, web designer. Then add the people who give you professional business advice: a lawyer, an accountant, a business coach. Finally, include the people who support you personally: your family, friends, and colleagues.

Don't forget to be part of other's support teams, too. Share your expertise at Solo-E, start a networking group where business owners support each other, share a referral with a colleague. Solo Entrepreneurs supporting other Solo Entrepreneurs is what will make us all successful!

Terri Zwierzynski is dedicated to the success of lifestyle-inspired Solo Entrepreneurs. She is the CEI (Conductor of Extraordinary Ideas) at http://www.Solo-E.com and the author of 136 Ways To Market Your Small or Solo Business. Terri is an MBA honors graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill, and has been working with solo entrepreneurs since 2001. You can reach Terri at http://www.TerriZ.com

Growing Your Small Business Through Alliances and Joint Ventures

2007-03-10T19:34:00.000+11:00

By Janis Pettit

-- Beyond Cold Calling, “Warm” Calling and Sending E-mails --

Many Solo Entrepreneurs work from a home office. Our only connections to the outside world are the internet / e-mail and the telephone. Cold calling, “warm” calling and sending e-mails may seem like the most obvious way to let people know about us and to generate sales. But, there’s another way that works even better.

An alliance is usually an agreement between two businesses whose services or products compliment each other. Each agrees to recommend the other’s services to their respective clients and to pay a percentage to the other if the referral results in paying work. Let’s say you’re a marketing expert, but you don’t do public relations. However, sometimes your clients require public relations as part of their marketing strategy. You meet with several public relations experts who specialize in different fields, but who don’t offer your type of marketing services, and you form 3 alliances. A 10% commission is what you agree on for mutual referrals that result in work. Now, both you and your alliance partners are more “full service” providers. You can offer PR services to your clients and your partners can offer marketing services to theirs through you. In addition you could add them as “partners” on your website, giving your company the advantage and versatility of an expert team. It’s a win - win situation.

A joint venture is formed when you not only have an alliance but you come up with a strategy to find customers together. Suppose you make custom window treatments. You decide to speak to a local fabric shop that specializes in upholstery and window fabric. If you could be their exclusive referral for customers that need someone to make their fabric into beautiful draperies, and you are willing to pay them a commission for each referral, what happens? They can say they now offer a new value-added service to their customers, which may mean a customer chooses their store above another. You have a steady source of customers. You may even get them to display some of your draperies made with their fabric in your store. They agree to allow you to advertise in their store, perhaps even offer a workshop, and you’ll recommend them exclusively to your clients. You may even advertise together. The possibilities are limitless.

There are numerous ways to put together alliances and joint ventures. Thinking outside the box and being clear about what benefits both parties would receive are essential. As always, getting the agreement in writing is a good idea, as is being sure the person you're dealing with is honorable and reliable. And try to discover ALL the alliance possibilities that exist for your business. Our custom window treatment business owner above could also contact interior designers, furniture stores, residential real estate agents, home builders sales offices and even paint stores. So, what are you waiting for? Start today by:

-- Making a list of at least 5 prospective alliance partners.

-- Making a list of 5 ways the alliance would benefit them and you.

-- Making a list of 5 ways you could implement the alliance. start making contact!

One Final Note – some people have asked whether or not to disclose the partnership to the client. Sometimes it’s obvious that you are referring a client to your alliance partner, as in the case of the drapery maker and the fabric store. If it’s not so apparent, you may want to simply inform your client that you will be working with your alliance partner who is an expert in their field. For the sake of consistency, how much to explain to a client is something that you and your partner should agree upon up front.

Janis Pettit, Team Member of Solo-E (http://www.solo-e.com) and President of SmarTrack (http://www.smartrack.net), that specializes in improving profit and productivity through small business marketing and growth consulting, business coaching, workshops and tele-classes. As well as owning 4 successful businesses over the last 18 years, Janis hosted her own TV business talk show. Her articles have been published locally and internationally.

How Your Habits Control Your Small Business Success

2007-03-10T19:33:00.000+11:00

By Rose Hill

Habit: A consistent behavior you perform so frequently that it is automatic.

For example, if you learned to drive a car with a standard transmission, the first few lessons were pretty jerky while you learned to synchronize the clutch with the accelerator pedal. If you released the clutch too fast, the car would stall. If you pressed the accelerator too fast without releasing the clutch, you raced the engine but you and the car were still sitting there! However, with practice, practice, and more practice, you learned to synchronize control of the clutch with control of the accelerator so that you don’t even think about it any more. It is now a habit.

All habits consist of knowledge combined with skill from practice. What all this means is that you can learn new habits to replace those that are no longer working for you. You have to change what you’re doing, how you’re doing it, and the choices you make in order to change your business results.

If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you’ll keep getting what you’ve always gotten.

That means that if your business is not headed in the direction you desire right now, you must make new choices and start new habits to ensure you ultimately get the results you want.

Your choices of habits, determine your success.

That may seem harsh to you. Especially if you’d like credit for having “Good Intentions.” The fact is that your intentions, however good, are immaterial until they are supported by your behaviors. In fact, good intentions that are not actualized will drain you of the energy necessary to take effective action. Remember, the only question of significance is “What's working and What's not?”

Every habit has its consequences. Habits that are working for you create positive consequences; habits that are not working for you create negative consequences every time. You may not like that your habits create consequences but you’ll still receive those consequences just the same. Whether or not you like it isn't a factor. The fact is that as you keep on repeating a behavior you will get repeatable, predictable results.

Up to 90 percent of your current behavior is based on habits.

By and large, these habits work for you. They save you from the tedium of having to make new decisions each day. Wouldn’t it be boring and a waste of energy if each day you decided to brush your teeth, but then had to decide where, with what toothbrush, with what of the 100’s of toothpastes now available, for how long, with what type of action on the toothbrush, and so forth. It's much easier to go into automatic and let your neural net take charge freeing you to plan for that important meeting with your big client at 2 PM.

Habits are part of being human; we all have them. We use them to conserve energy and effort; to provide familiarity/security; to free up energy for other things; to improve and fine-tune our skills; and to assist in avoiding physical and/or mental pain. Often, a particular habit can lose its usefulness. Yet, because we are human we tend to continue the habit, knowingly or unknowingly. Only with awareness and a strong reason or motivation to change can we initiate and sustain change.

Habits tap into the nearly human obsession to be (and to appear) consistent with what we have already done. Once we have made a choice or taken a stand, we encounter personal and interpersonal pressures to behave consistently with that commitment. For good or for ill, the drive to be (and to look) consistent constitutes a highly potent weapon of change.

To understand why consistency is so powerful a motive, it is important to recognize that in most circumstances consistency is valued and adaptive. Inconsistency is commonly thought to be an undersirable personality trait. The person whose beliefs, words, and actions don’t match may be seen as indecisive, confused, two-faced, or worse.

On the other side, a high degree of consistency is normally associated with personal and intellectual strength. Certainly, then, the personal consistency brought by habits is highly valued because it provides us with a reasonable and gainful orientation to the world. Most of the time we are well served by habits... without them our lives and our businesses are difficult, erratic, and disjointed.

By superimposing a new habit on top of an existing habit, you can create a new way of doing things. In other words, you start replacing old negative habits with new positive habits.

For example, if you always show up late for meetings, your stress levels are probably high and you feel unprepared. To improve this you might decide to develop a new habit of arriving five minutes early for every appointment, including meetings. If you take on this challenge you might notice:

- The first month or so of the new behavior is tough. In fact, you’ll find yourself reverting to the old behavior during times of stress or unawareness this is normal because it is in compliance with our need to be consistent with our prior behavior. However, don’t resort to self-recriminations for the backsliding. Just pick yourself up and recommit to the desired new behavior!

- The more you activate the desired new behavior, the easier it becomes. Eventually, it will be become just as strong as the old habit you are replacing then it will supersede the old behavior. Employ the principle of consistency to help you build your new habit.

By systematically replacing your negative habits with new positive habits one at a time you can dramatically change all aspects of your business.

Differentiation - Smart Marketing Strategies for the Solo Entrepreneur

2007-03-10T19:32:00.000+11:00

By Terri Zwierzynski

Are you ever frustrated or hesitant when you talk to prospective customers because you can’t readily explain why they should come to you rather than go to your competitors? Sure, you might have your 30-second elevator speech, but then they ask you that dreaded question, “So what makes you different?” Then, all those self-doubts creep in, and you just aren’t sure what to say. Differentiation can boost confidence--yours in yourself and that prospective customer’s confidence in you!

-- Dif-fer-en-ti-ate v. tr. To perceive or show the difference in or between; discriminate. --

In business terms, to differentiate means to create a benefit that customers perceive as being of greater value to them than what they can get elsewhere. It's not enough for you to be different--a potential customer has to take note of the difference and must feel that the difference somehow fits their need better. (Other words that mean virtually the same thing: Competitive Advantage; Unique Selling Proposition; or Value Proposition.)

As you are building your business, you can use differentiation to attract more customers. Once you have momentum, differentiation allows you to charge a higher price because you are delivering more value to your customers. Make a point to evaluate and adjust your differentiation methods at least annually.

The various methods of differentiating your businesses fall into four general categories:

Price Differentiation

Focus Differentiation

Product/Service Differentiation

Customer Service Differentiation

Price Differentiation

Differentiating on price is probably the most common and easily understood method. HOWEVER, for Solo Entrepreneurs, caution is in order. On the one hand, potential customers might expect a lower price from you than from your larger competition because they perceive you as having less overhead, etc. On the other hand, cheaper prices can evoke perceptions of lower quality, a less-stable business, etc. And if you compete on price against competitors with deeper pockets, you can price yourself right into bankruptcy. Be creative with this differentiator by competing on something other than straight price. For example, you might offer:

- More value--offer more products or services for the same price.

- Freebies --accessories, companion products, free upgrades, and coupons for future purchases.

- Free shipping, etc.--convenience sells, especially when it is free!

- Discounts--includes offering regular sales, coupons, etc. (see cautions above)

Focus Differentiation

For Solo Entrepreneurs, this is the most important method of differentiation, and in many ways, the easiest. Why? Because as a Solo Entrepreneur, you simply can't be everything to everybody, so you must pick a specific way to focus your business. Once you have done that, you have an automatic advantage over larger companies because you can become more of an expert in that one field --and you can build close relationships with key customers that will be hard to duplicate. For example, you might differentiate yourself through:

- Location--take advantage your closeness to prospective customers.

- Customer specialization--be very specific about what characteristics your customers will have—for example, racing bicycle enthusiasts or companies with a spiritual conscience.

- Customer relationships--know customers really well, form partnerships with them, and get them to speak for you!

- Affinity relationships--associate your product/service with a well-known person or organization.

- One-stop shopping--offer everything your target market needs, in your area of expertise.

- Wide selection (within your niche)—although this one may seem to be the opposite of focus--the key is to be very specific in one dimension and very broad in another.

Product/Service Offering Differentiation

How much you are able to differentiate your product or service offering will vary based on what type of business you are in. For instance, if you are in a highly regulated business, your options may be limited. Explore a totally new market or type of product or service, however, and the possibilities abound. The key to successful differentiation in this category, again, is to know your customers, really, really well. Talk to them often, and you will know what they need most and be able to offer it, long before your competitors know what is happening. For example, your product or service could stand out in one of these ways:

- Quality--create a product or service that is exceptional in one or more ways. Examples: Lasts longer

- Better

- Easier to use

- Safer

- New/First--be the first one to offer something in your location/field.

- Features/Options--offer lots of choices, unusual combinations, or solve a problem for a customer in a way no one else does.

- Customization--as a Solo Entrepreneur, you may be able to more easily handle special orders than big, mass-market competitors.

Customer Service Differentiation

Have you noticed how customer service seems to be out of vogue these days? This situation makes excellent customer service a great opportunity for differentiation and another natural advantage for Solo Entrepreneurs that already know what’s important to their customers. Build your reputation on making customers feel really good about doing business with you. Works great with referral marketing, too. Examples:

- Deliver fast--next day, or one-hour--make it faster than customers think possible.

- Unique channel--offer a service over the phone or Internet instead of in person or in their office rather than yours.

- Service-delight customers!--it may seem expensive to offer exceptional service--but it pays off in word-of-mouth advertising.

- Before/during/after-sales support--provide technical or other support to customers using your product. You might use joint ventures to provide that support--but customers will perceive it as being from you!

- Guarantee/warranty--offer 100% money-back, or free replacement parts.

- YOU--offer yourself, your unique blend of talents and skills, to attract customers. Make sure they get access to you, too!

Keys to Successful Differentiation:

- Know your customers, really, really well.

- Pick a blend of differentiation methods that, in the eyes of your customers, truly sets you apart.

- Talk about your differentiation in terms of customer benefits.

- Tell everyone about what differentiates you--often.

- Keep your differentiation fresh by listening for changing customer needs.

Marketing Messages: Your 10 Most Important Business Principles

2007-03-10T19:31:00.000+11:00

By Rose Hill

As a self-employed professional, you have two basic strategies for your marketing efforts: Writing or Speaking.

No matter whether or not you do both of these activities or only one of them, you need to know what messages you want to convey to your audience.

That's why you need to create a list of your 10 Most Important Business Principles (MIBP). Without them, your marketing efforts will be too diffuse to really grab the attention of your intended ideal clients.

Your 10 Most Important Business Principles inform, expand, and provide clarity for your business vision. For example, the vision statement for my company, SoloBizVille is:

Through collaboration, community, and continuous learning, any professional can create a joyous, sustainable, and profitable one-person services business.

For me, as a Business Coach for Solopreneurs, my 10 MIBP are:

Nobody needs a stronger weakness.
If you chase 2 rabbits, both will escape. Focus is power.
Ideas are "a dime a dozen," but right action is rare and worth millions.
Mistakes are the stepping stones to success. Embrace them.
Success and integrity are not mutually exclusive.
Embrace the goal, not the plan.
This is your life, not a dress rehearsal.
At least 5% of your clients and projects are from Hell. Always. No exceptions.
Success comes by doing what you do magnificently. Delegate everything else!
Your strengths are so easy you think everyone can do them. They can't!

As you can see, some of my MIBP are reasons why solopreneurs are frustrated; while others are principles for business success. But all of them are principles that I believe in and use when I coach solopreneurs.

For a contrast, these were my 10 MIBPs when I was working solo as an Independent Technical Writer and Publications Project Manager:

The client is always right, even when he isn't. Always respect and honor the client's objectives.
Project risk is always reducible.
Success requires mistakes but make them small ones! And always correct your own on your own time and dime.
The client wants options and possibilities.
Never surprise the client.
Always communicate cleanly, regularly, appropriately, and proactively.
Use an editor!
Keep all boundaries professional, clean, and open at all times.
Hold the client as accountable as I hold myself.
Manage the client's expectations at all times.

Once you know your 10 MIBP you immediately have at least 10 topics for promoting your business. You can write a series of articles like this one, or use them as topics for speeches or seminars, or create checklists and worksheets based on your MIBP for use by your clients, or print them on the backs of your business cards, or write a book or ebook about them. You get the idea.

Using your 10 MIBP in your marketing ensures congruency in your business messenging strengthening the image of your business in the minds of your potential clients.

Top 10 Business Plan Myths of Solo Entrepreneurs

2007-03-10T19:30:00.002+11:00

By Terri Zwierzynski

Don't let these stop you from having a business plan for success!

A recent study of 29,000 business startups noted that 26,000 of them failed. Of those failures, 67% had no written business plan. Think that's a coincidence?

Here's the top 10 myths Solo Entrepreneurs often have about business plans—usually, the reasons why they don't have one. De-bunk the myths, and see how having a business plan for your solo business, can actually be easy and fun--and can jumpstart your success!

1. Myth: I don't need a business plan--it's just me!

Starting a business without a plan is like taking a trip in a foreign country without a map. You might have a lot of fun along the way, and meet a lot of friends, but you are likely to end up at a very different place than you originally set out for—and you might have to phone home for funds for your return ticket.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Successful Solo Entrepreneurs know that the exercise of creating a business plan, really helps them think through all the critical aspects of running a business, make better business decisions, and get to profitability sooner.

2. Myth: I have to buy business plan software before I can start.

Business plan software comes in many shapes and sizes, and prices. Many are more geared at small and growing businesses with employees.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Business plan software can be helpful—but it’s not required. Software is more likely to help if you have a more traditional type business, like a restaurant or a typical consulting business.

3. Myth: I need to hire a consultant to write my business plan.

Consultants are an expensive way to have your business plan written.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Your business IS you—and you need to be intimately involved with the creation of your business plan. A better strategy, if you think you need professional help, is to hire a coach or mentor—someone who can guide you in what you need to do, not do it for you.

4. Myth: The business plan templates I’ve seen have all these complex-sounding sections to them—I guess I need all those?

The only time you need to follow a specific outline is if you are looking for funding.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Your business plan needs to answer ten basic questions—that’s it! Don’t make things more complicated than necessary.

5. Myth: My business plan needs to be perfect before I can start my business.

If you wait for everything to be perfectly detailed, you may never start.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: If you have at least a first draft that answers those ten basic questions, you are ready to launch your business! Make your business plan a living, evolving document. In the startup stages, review and update your plan every 2-3 months. As you grow and stabilize, you can slow down the review cycle to every 6-12 months. All business plans should be reviewed and updated at least once a year.

6. Myth: I have to do everything I say I’m going to do in my business plan, or I’m a failure.

Many Solo Entrepreneurs never start because of this myth—which leaves them feeling that the success of their future business suddenly rides on each stroke of the pen or click of the keyboard!

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Think of your business plan as a roadmap for a trip. Expect to take some detours for road construction. Be flexible enough to take some exciting, unplanned side trips. And don’t be surprised if instead of visiting Mount Rushmore, you decide to go to Yellowstone, if that turns out to meet your vacation goals better!

7. Myth: A good business plan has a nice cover, is at least 40 pages long, must be typed and double-spaced…

Business plans intended for investors, such as a bank or venture capitalist, must meet certain requirements that such investors expect.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: As a Solo Entrepreneur, your business plan need only satisfy YOU. It might be scribbled on a napkin, on stickie notes on your wall, or consist of a collage of pictures and captions. It might be all in one document or scattered among several mediums. As long as you know it in your head and heart without having to look at it, and and it is easily accessible to you when you have doubts, that’s all that is necessary.

8. Myth: I don’t need a loan—so I don’t need a business plan.

YOU are the investor in your business—and would you invest in the stock of some company without seeing a prospectus?

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: Seeing your plan in black and white (or color, if you prefer!), can give a whole new view on the financial viability of your business. If “doing the numbers” seems overwhelming, remember you don’t need fancy spreadsheets. Just lay out a budget that shows where all the money is coming from (and going), and have an accountant review it for additional perspective.

9. Myth: My business plan is in my head—that’s good enough.

I don’t know about you, but I sometimes can’t remember what I planned yesterday to do tomorrow, if I don’t write it down!

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: There is a real power in writing down your plans. Some schools of thought advocate that the act of writing a plan down triggers our subconscious to start working on how to manifest that plan. And, of course, it’s a lot easier to remember when you have it in front of you. And a lot easier to share and get feedback from your non-mind reading supporters.

10. Myth: Friends and family are the best sources of feedback and advice on my business plan.

If your brother is an accountant and your best friend is a market research expert, then this might be true.

Solo Entrepreneur Reality: As well meaning as our friends and family can often be, they just aren’t the best way to get honest, objective guidance. Instead, seek out folks that have specific knowledge that will help you, are willing to be candid with you, and that have a genuine interest in helping you succeed. A business coach is one resource to consider!

Out of the Cubicle and Into Business - Book Review

2007-03-10T19:30:00.001+11:00

By Terri Zwierzynski

This is a fantastic reference if you are thinking about going into business and want the rigor and discipline to ask yourself all the challenging questions before you start. Lea walks you through all the aspects of starting a business, from deciding what your business will be, putting together a complete business plan, and setting up the legal entity that will be "your business".

Along the way she poses 114 questions that every entrepreneur ought to be able to ask themselves...and yet many of us fail to do so until we are already in business and things aren't going the way we planned! Space is provided right in the book to write your answers, so you don't even need to fret about starting up the computer to get started. The icing on the cake lies in the narrative around the questions, giving these queries depth and increasing your understanding of why they are so important.

Add in the "Perspectives", little pieces of information that make you look at business in a different way, and you have a dynamite book. My favorite is her perspective titled "Business Plans - It's not the Document"; which explains that the goal of doing a business plan isn't just to get the document written -- rather, it is to ask the probing questions and really get a good feel for the feasibility of your business model.

The book includes a section on the different legal entities you might choose for your business, choosing how you are going to keep track of your business financially, and several other considerations. Plus a complete Glossary of Terms.

I recommend this book for those that might otherwise explore business planning software (which is costly and really unnecessary, in my humble opinion!) for its complete coverage of the basics and beyond.

Out Of The Cubicle And Into Business: 114 Questions To Answer Before You Make The Move From A Corporation Or University Job Into Your Own Business! (Paperback)
by Lea A. Strickland (Author)
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Authorhouse (February 28, 2005)
ISBN-10: 1420831305

Find more articles like this at http://www.Solo-E.com, along with hundreds of other articles, classes, and other resources for the lifestyle-inspired Solo Entrepreneur, "...because it's not just about the business!"

The Big Secret In Selling Real Estate, Insurance, and Financial Services

2007-03-10T19:29:00.001+11:00

By André Taylor

I recently spoke at a national convention of real estate brokers and agents. After my talk to the hundreds of real estate professionals in the room, I had a wonderful conversation with a new real estate agent, attending one of these conventions for the first time. It was clear that he got the message of my talk, but he wasn’t sure he was happy. He cornered me as I was leaving the meeting room, scratching his head murmuring, “Andre, are you saying that I just went into business?” I had to reply honestly; “Yes, That’s exactly what I’m saying.”

Each year millions of individuals decide to go into the fields of real estate sales, insurance sales, and financial service sales. You can also add travel agents, and many other professionals to this group. Attracted by the income potential, working with an established brand name, and great initial training, these new recruits assume that in a short time they’ll be “rolling in the dough.” But what many of these individuals do not know is that they’re not salespeople, but they’ve decided to become entrepreneurs. Their future will come down to how quickly they realize that they’ve started their own businesses and how quickly they can adopt the mindset and actions of an entrepreneur.

Real estate, insurance sales, and financial sales have very high turnover rates. A person will spend months, interviewing, studying to become licensed, and receiving initial training. Then the day comes when planning mode ends, and the person takes a seat in front of an empty desk and stares at the telephone. That’s when they must move with the intensity of a passionate entrepreneur nursing a start-up. And that’s where many new recruits become disillusioned and are prepared to call it quits.

During this period you have to prospect, fill your pipeline with leads, and persuasively present the benefits of your products or service repeatedly. And yes, you have to do this under pressure, often with little or no income, and in a hyper-competitive market. There are prospects just “kicking the tires,” quite indecisive, and those that ignore you entirely. As you look around, you may see your colleagues land a big deal or two, or drop like flies because the task seems so hard. Meanwhile weeks and months go by and your dreams of big earnings begin to fade, feeling like pure fantasy. If you make it through the first year, your earnings are modest at best and you’re totally exhausted. Many will walk away from their new career, determined never to go down that path again.

When I have an opportunity to give guidance to professionals in these industries, I always offer these five points:

1. Realize that you’ve decided to become an entrepreneur. You must learn the elements of running a successful business, which include selling, marketing, delivering the product, servicing, and accounting.

2. You must become an excellent marketer and go far beyond the typical guidance you receive as part of your licensing and corporate training. If you do not create a unique business, you might as well get out of the field.

3. Next to the skill of marketing, you must develop the skill of delivering an extraordinary customer experience. That means service, service, service.

4. In your first year or two, be prepared to work like mad, and despite your frenzied efforts at the end of the year, you might feel like you’ve just moved an inch, gaining only modest returns.

5. If you stick it out, and really do these things, you’ll make fewer and fewer mistakes, as time progresses and success will become natural to you. If you’re committed you’ll begin to succeed beyond your initial expectations.

The best sales organizations help their recruits understand these facts. The management of these companies know that despite working with a well-established brand name with offices across the country, you must learn how to make the business your own, differentiating between your offerings and the many other individuals that have gone into your field.

The big secret in selling real estate, insurance, and financial services is that there’s no secret about what it takes to succeed. Whether you know it or not, you have started your own business and you must bring to this endeavor the same thinking and discipline as anyone else hanging out a shingle.

André Taylor is an entrepreneur, author, and advisor to growing companies. He’s a popular speaker on the subjects of entrepreneurship, leadership, sales, marketing, innovation, and growth.

What Drives You? Fear or Passion?

2007-03-10T19:28:00.002+11:00

By David Allred

Have you ever know someone in your life who was driven by fear in all of their decision making? When faced with an important decision the thought of what might go wrong is the main factor in whether or not they move forward? Most people are just like that. Instead of seeing the great amounts of success they could have or the happiness that would derive from succeeding or making a good, solid choice in the direction of their dreams, they choose to submit to fear. They allow this fear to keep them from their happiness. These people don’t even know it, but they are living life in fear. They fear consequence. Taking responsibility for their own actions is hard.

There is no degree of success that has ever been achieved without the possibility of failure. Failing is not the end of the world. It is an attempt at something great. The only difference between the ones who succeed and the ones who fail is what they do after they fail. They have two options, lay down and stay defeated. Or, try again until success! Abraham Lincoln failed at many attempts to be elected in different political offices throughout his career until he was finally elected President of the Unites States.

Someone who is passion driven will have an unmeasurable amount of success. Decision making and going forward without fear is something that comes easy when you are driven by your dreams. Failure will come more often to those who are driven by fear. That emotion is always lingering in the subconscious, waiting to take control. Don’t allow it. Look forward with confidence and make decisions based on what you want in your heart, not what logic tells you. Logic will not allow you to live your dreams.

Fear is just a frame of mind. Passion radiates from every member of the body and is far more powerful. Live a life of abundance that is fueled by your passion.

My name is David Allred and I have created my home based business, and I can teach you how to obtain the ultimate lifestyle of prosperity and abundance. If you are looking for a vehicle, I can teach you a business that can and will transform your life.

The Process Of Buying Arizona Real Estate

2007-03-10T19:28:00.001+11:00

By Nick McConnell

The first step when purchasing a home in Arizona is to get pre-qualified for a loan. This is an extremely simple process that only take one phone call to your lender If you do not have a lender, Arizona Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage can recommend a good lender. During your pre-qualification process, you find out how much your payments will be if you borrow “X” dollars. For example, If you want to buy a three hundred thousand dollar house, put down twenty thousand, and finance two hundred and eighty thousand, you will want to know what your payments will be if you finance this amount. This process determines what your price range will be when searching for a home.

The second step is to find a home you like. Once you find a home in your desired location, your Realtor will help you submit an offer to the seller. The seller can accept, reject, or counter offer. Depending on the sellers response will determine the next step. There is never a formal agreement between the parties until both parties have agreed on the terms and conditions of the contract. Once there is a formal agreement, escrow is opened.

The third step is to conduct inspections which your Realtor will help you with. You hired professional inspectors to make sure the home is in good standings. In every case, there is always something wrong with every house. Even if the home in brand spanking new built in 2007, there will be something wrong. Very rarely will you ever come across a perfect inspection with nothing wrong. Once you find out what is wrong with the house you ask the seller to fix X, Y, and Z. The buyer and the seller most come to terms again. It is a contract within a contract. Once the seller and buyer have agreed on what is to be fixed, the seller makes the repairs and the buyer conducts a final walk through at the end of escrow to make sure all repairs were made.

Step four is to work with your lender to make sure he has everything he or she needs to get your loan done such as pay stubs, W2’s, and bank statements just to name a few items.

Step Five is to conduct a final walk through to make sure the home is in the condition it was in when the contract was first written.

The sixth step is to go to the title company to sign your final documents. Once the funds have been delivered from your lender, all monies are in order, and deed has been recorded in the buyers name, you can receive your keys and start moving in!

All Arizona Real Estate deals are like a fingerprint, no two are alike.

Please visit http://WWW.NICHOLASMCCONNELL.COM For all of your Arizona Real Estate needs and questions. Have a great day!

Nick McConnell Arizona Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Arizona Real Estate Specialist nick.mcconnell@azmoves.com E-mail 480-323-5365 Cell WWW.NICHOLASMCCONNELL.COM website

The Process of Selling Arizona Real Estate

2007-03-10T19:27:00.001+11:00

By Nick McConnell

The first step when selling your home in Arizona is to contact a knowledgeable Realtor to help you get your home on the market. It is important to choose a Realtor with experience, aggressiveness, ambition, and willingness to spend time on your best interests.

Once you have found an agent, your second step is to meet with the agent at your home, or at a place most convenient for the person selling their home. In Arizona, there is an average of about 30 pages of paper work, depending on the broker, that needs to be filled out and signed by the seller If you have a good agent, most of the paperwork will be already completed when you first meet your Realtor. However, some information must be filled out by the seller.

After all the paperwork has been signed by the seller, which usually takes about an hour, the Realtor should take pictures of the home for marketing purposes which is the third step. It is important to take pictures of the nicest parts of the home because these pictures will be featured in several marketing programs.

After the Realtor leaves your home with the signed paperwork, and pictures of the home, the fourth step is to insert the information that the seller signed and pictures into the Arizona MLS. This is the main marketing source. The Arizona MLS is where all Realtors can view all the homes for sale in Arizona. It is important to have the most attractive listing possible in the MLS to give your sellers maximum exposure.

The fifth step is to order a sign up in the yard, and initiate all marketing programs. Marketing programs vary from brokerage to brokerage. Arizona Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage will put your home in the Arizona MLS, put a sign up in your yard with an info tube and sign riders, email marketing, submit your listing to the Southwest Living Magazines, send out mailers to all of your neighbors, and put your home on several national websites to make sure your home gets maximum exposure.

After the home has been implemented into all marketing programs, make sure your Realtor holds open houses. This gives your property additional exposure. If your Realtor does not hold open houses, that is a sign that they are not willing to put in the extra effort. However, some Realtors have more than one client so they have to rotate their clients as best they can. Every once in a while Realtors may want to take a Sunday off here and there.

If all of the things mentioned above are completed, you are getting some of the best exposure a client can get. At this point, the seller just needs to sit back and wait for a contract to come in which the their Realtor will present once received.

Nick McConnell
Arizona Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Arizona Real Estate Specialist
http://www.nicholasmcconnell.com/ website

Smart Artists Use the Internet to Increase Recognition and Sales

2007-03-10T19:26:00.000+11:00

By Debra Amerson

Many of us have dreamed about making a living doing something we love, enjoying each day to the fullest and living that content, peaceful life we long for. For many of us, becoming a professional artist would be our highest aspiration, but even for those lucky enough to have the talent, making a good living as an artist can be extremely difficult.

Just ask any artist and they can tell you the same thing. Even immense talent doesn't guarantee a decent living. Despite rave reviews from art experts, most artists still find themselves in need of an extra boost to sell their art and make a good living.

So, like many of us, artists are beginning to turn to the Internet for a solution. Believe it or not, there are art-loving people out there who sponsor websites that provide an outlet for organizations, individuals, visual artists and musicians to upload and sell their work online.

CafePress.com is the Web's leading marketplace for selling and buying products direct from the creator. CafePress.com manages every aspect of doing business online, including customer service, online storefront development and management, product manufacturing and sourcing, fulfillment, credit card transactions and offers a full money back guarantee. Organizations utilizing CafePress.com's services are able to generate new streams of bottom-line revenue and build community through creative merchandising with no upfront cost.

The print and product quality is typically very high, allowing artists to showcase their work to millions of art lovers around the world including some well known celebrities who have set up CafePress.com shops such as: Christopher Lee (Lord of the Rings), Rick Springfield, LeeAnn Rimes, David Cassidy, Tupac Shakur, R. Lee Ermy (Full Metal Jacket) and Wil Wheaton.

The Internet isn't just for MLMs and auctions. In recent years, the number of visual artists and musicians with websites has grown substantially, and so have the numbers of people who buy art online. It's a market that, while growing, remains vastly untapped. And that's good news for artists who want to jump on the bandwagon in the early stages.

So, if you're and art enthusiast or someone needing a unique artistic gift, you can skip the galleries. Those who create art can sell it online, and those who love art can buy it online.

Debra Amerson's photography has already received kudos from musician and recording engineer Andrew Roberts, a private collector, who said "Debra Amerson is an artist whose work brings vibrancy and positive energy to any space where it is displayed. The colors and textures of her images create a visual experience that, like classic music recordings, are worth visiting again and again-- finding something new and beautiful each time."

For more information about Debra Amerson's California Style Art on subjects from florals to music, and travel to Tibetan monks, visit http://www.cafepress.com/damersondesign

Should You Wholesale Your Time?

2007-03-10T19:25:00.000+11:00

By Jane Francis

Consumers are usually rewarded for purchasing in bulk and the purchasers of professional services (time) make no exception to the rule. But the trouble is, unlike cans of spaghetti where the production costs go down as the quantity goes up, time does not. Once you have used up today, you can not get it back again.

In general, the longer the project, the more likely it is that clients will demand a weekly or monthly rate rather than an hourly rate. There is also a high probability that your competitors will meet this customer expectation which puts pressure on you too to conform.

Amongst the benefits of wholesaling your time is the fact that you should be able to contract yourself for a set amount of time. The contract will provide you with some sense of security and allow you to plan ahead. It may even be prestigious to 'win' the business but one of the pitfalls is the opportunity cost that you may lose your presence in the marketplace. While you are 'away' you may give your competitors time to encroach on your territory or you may experience some downtime between jobs if you have not arranged otherwise.

Under some circumstances if the marketplace is short of people with your skills you may find you can contract yourself to the client at a higher rate than usual because the client sees value in knowing they have you 'on tap'. They may be willing to pay a premium to know they will never run out of what it is you have to offer.

Whether you decide to wholesale [discount] your time, or not, is a judgment call on your part but do not be too quick to discount especially if there will be some lag time for you to get back into the market. It is very easy to buckle to your client's demands when really it is an excuse for not charging what you are worth.

Before you agree to wholesale your time remember time is a non-renewable resource. Selling your time is what you do, be mindful of what you agree to because while you are out selling your time to one customer you can not be dealing with another.

Whether or not you can afford to wholesale your time comes down to the economic goals you have set for yourself: Have you priced yourself in a way that allows you to sell your time at a bulk rate and still achieve your profit goal?

Jane Francis is the author of 'Price Yourself Right: A guide to charging what you are worth' [ISBN 0-595-38601-6] which is available at Barnes & Noble (US), WH Smith (UK) and at amazon.com. You can read more at her blog: http://www.priceyourselfright.blogspot.com

Business Cards for Entrepreneurs and Home Based Businesses - What's All the Fuss?

2007-03-10T19:24:00.002+11:00

By Jennifer A. Thieme

I'm so tired of hearing all the hoopla about business cards as it relates to small, solo service professionals or home based businesses, and I just don't buy it. You may know what I'm talking about - all the marketing advice about how to set them up, using them as marketing "real estate," packing them with just the right kind of information to "catch" that next client. I think most of that advice is a bunch of garbage, because I don't agree with the premise: that potential clients will accept or reject you on the basis of your business card.

People will do business with you because they like you, and/or they think you can do a good job. Period. So be likeable and be educated, because nobody will reject you because of your business card. And if they did, then they were too shallow to want as a client anyway.

My advice for business card is this: keep it simple. Put your name, one or two of your favorite designations, your contact information (phone number, email, and website if you have one), and a logo if you have one you can use. Don't worry about the address. I don't have the address on mine, and it has not mattered one bit.

The reason I say to put your favorite designations, and not necessarily the most prestigious, is this: your emotion about the designation is important. If you are excited about the designations, that excitement is contagious, and your potential client will be excited too. Well, maybe not as excited as you are, but your emotion about it will come across as a form of sincerity. And that can only be good when meeting with new clients.

You can also put the designations that target your desired clientele. The idea here is that you will attract the type of client you think you want. However, I don't think this is as good as putting your own favorites. Putting your own favorite designations is more in alignment with who you really are as a person. This, in turn, can lead to clients with whom you are more compatible for long term business relationships.

So keep your business cards simple, and don't stress about them. People will hire you for other, more important, reasons.

Jennifer A. Thieme is a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. Visit http://www.jenniferthieme.com for more information about her services.

Wholesale Craft Show Do's and Don'ts - Tips for Artists

2007-03-10T19:24:00.001+11:00

By Alice Horrigan

This is a companion piece to my article, "Fine Craft Wholesale Shows: A Review of the Philadelphia Buyer’s Market Visiting Artists Program," also on this site.

In June, 2006 I attended the Philadelphia Buyer’s Market of American Craft Visiting Artists Program. The presenters offered lots of wisdom and nuts-and-bolts tips on wholesaling for artists just starting out in the wholesale market. Here are a few of the golden nuggets I picked up:

Craft consultant Bruce Baker and gallery owner Nancy Marcoe suggested finding markets not just at craft shows, but also at professional association conventions and special interest shows – anywhere potential customers may be. To keep on top of trends, watch TV commercials and subscribe to three magazines – such as Real Simple, W Magazine, and Vanity Fair – just to look at the pictures: “The trail to the market is through trends.”

Common markup for galleries is 2.2 to 3, especially in higher rent areas. Your wholesale prices should reflect that. Tell customers that if a line doesn’t work for them, they can trade it back. While a grouping of your work might sell well, the last stranded three will likely sit there forever, said Baker. Rather than let those pieces wend their way into the “Sale” basket, why not offer to trade them for fresh inventory with new designs?

Inside your shipping box, pack a list of selling points for the sales staff (along with a couple of chocolate truffles). The staff will get instant sales training tailored to your work when they put your pieces on display.

In a tough economy, artists are smart to have low price points as well as high. To keep artists’ production costs down, lower priced pieces should require very little finishing.

One benefit to wholesaling over retailing is the relative ease with which one can build a national reputation (“The banks will love it, and so will Mom and Dad,” said Baker).

Baker also touched upon key operational strategies – from sourcing inventory (“Play hardball with your suppliers”) to shipping (“Keep all promises”). Merchant card services have phased out the “proforma” method of order taking. Today, all you need to do is take the customer’s credit card number and run it through when you ship.

Good contracts are vital to operations, noted Judie Raiford of Raiford Gallery. “Don’t leave anything to chance.” Fulfilling your responsibilities is paramount: “Deliver on time, and deliver what you promise.” Spread out your work across the country. “Don’t be in two galleries within emotional distance from one another,” said Raiford.

Omit contact information from your “care cards” (the information cards passed out to customers). Gallery owners bristle at the idea of customers using their space as glamorous showrooms for your online store. I heard this message repeatedly during the weekend: If you’re trying to wholesale and you have shopping cart capability on your website, you will be shunned.

Wendy Rosen explained that multiple revenue streams are often a must for artists. Think about selling some production pieces under a separate company name (a la Dale Chihuli’s Portland Press sidelines), writing books, and developing specialized products for narrower markets. For example, at the National Baptist Convention there’s a market just for fancy hats, selling for $1,000 each.

Alice Horrigan is a glass artist and writer in Ithaca, New York. Her first wholesale show: the American Craft Retailers Expo, Las Vegas, May 2-4, 2007.
Wholesale inquiries:
http://www.fingerlakesgifts.com
http://www.wholesalecrafts.com (artist #23436)

Are You Going Freelance and Want to Know What to Charge?

2007-03-10T19:23:00.002+11:00

By Jane Francis

Let us pretend you are a forensic accountant with a large High Street accounting firm. You have been working in a large office with sea views, you had a car park, your own personal assistant and four junior accountants working in your team. You always were incredibly good at what you do and your clients know it. No one can get to the nitty-gritty of a fraudulent case quite like you do. But you hated the time wasting meetings and the office politics and now you have quit and are working from your home office, answering the phone yourself.

You are still the hot shot you always were but will your clients still see it that way? Now you are working from home should your charge out rate still be $800 an hour as it once was or has something changed?

You may think that nothing has changed in terms of the quality of advice you dispense and the service you provide but in reality, other subtle things have changed.

For instance, you are now out of the loop in terms of corporate knowledge, to keep up to date you may find you need to attend more conferences and network more.

Now you are at home your client is no longer buying the intellectual property of the corporate brand they once were. What price do you think they may have put on that? They are also no longer buying the surety of the brand -- the fact that in the past people like you may have come and gone yet the company has performed regardless. Will they have the certainty they are used to in terms of commitment to providing a back up if you are unavailable -- and what price do you think they may place on that?

Your client may have liked the prestige and convenience of the High Street location and may have been willing to pay for that, and now he knows your business does not carry the same overheads how much less does he expect to pay? If you are going to do all the administration jobs yourself then you may need to decrease your hourly rate as you are now diluting your $800 an hour thinking with $20 an hour secretarial services.

To keep up with your workload you may decide to employ a secretary and two book-keepers (yours are more efficient because you don't waste their time in unnecessary meetings). You may need to allow yourself an annual training and networking budget. You may also have to subscribe to professional organizations and journal subscriptions that when charged as an expense works out more costly than when you were in the corporate world because now you are the only person using these resources.

To decide whether you think you are still worth $800 an hour you need to build a case in your defense so you can give an explanation to your client. Perhaps you will decide to lower your rates because your overheads are lower or maybe you will charge more because now you are going to get better qualified, specialize even further and take on fewer clients so you will become even more exclusive and valuable in what you do. It is up to you to provide a winning sales...

Jane Francis is the author of 'Price Yourself Right: A guide to charging what you are worth' [ISBN 0-595-38601-6] which is available at Barnes & Noble (US), WH Smith (UK) and at http://www.amazon.com You can read more at her blog: http://www.priceyourselfright.blogspot.com

Private Practice Marketing Secrets - Do You Have What it Takes to Be Successful in Private Practice?

2007-03-10T19:23:00.001+11:00

By Jeff Herring

Private practice marketing and building requires a certain type of person and mindset.

Do you know what type of person has the most success in building and marketing their private practice? Read on to discover the four type of private practice marketers and which one is the most successful by far.

4 Types of Private Practice Marketers

In my work mentoring hundreds of private practice professionals to create their ideal practice, I have identified four different types of private practice professionals.

1. The SSS - SSS stand for Scared-Stuck-Secure- these are the folks that are too scared to move forward and are therefore stuck. They are stuck in a false sense of security sometimes called a paycheck.

2. The Dreamers - The grave stone of the Dreamer will say "Wouldn't it be nice if.................." Dreamers would like to but they do not do. They wish but they do not do.

3. The Dabblers - This is the category that most people fall into, by far. Here is a test to see if you are a Dabbler - look around your office and see how many books and programs line the shelves that you have never used. Now that happens occasionally to all of us. For a Dabbler that happens all the time.

The good news is a Dabbler is the easiest person to get moving and motivated, because they do know how to start. Dabblers need a good mentor coach to show them how to finish and complete the cycle that ends with money in your bank account.

4. The Go Getter - This is the person that shows up strong, takes the information and uses it, and completes the cycle of creating something new and prospering from it. This is the person that makes things happen.

You need to adopt the mind set and the action set of the Go Getter to be successful in private practice marketing.

And when you are ready to be a Go Getter and build your ideal private practice filled with your favorite clients, you are invited to visit http://www.PrivatePracticeMarketingSecrets.com - where you can listen to an audio on "Private Practice Marketing Secrets: How to Get High-Paying Clients and Build Your Ideal Practice in 6 Weeks."

The Most Powerful Sales and Marketing Strategy Ever!

2007-03-10T19:20:00.000+11:00

By Wayne Messick

As co-founder of Family Business Strategies, a consortium of professionals serving family businesses, their coaches and advisors, I have spent my entire career researching family-owned businesses, helping them develop their company's future.

Accidentally I hit upon a process that I've used for over a dozen years that has resulted in virtually all of our most profitable clients.

Like every professional I was constantly looking for the best way to connect with my ideal client types.

It had to be cost effective, no ads in the Wall Street Journal, and it had to be effective by getting me in front of the right people several at a time.

Accidents happen, sometimes resulting in a good thing. I ran into a group of business owners at a hotel coffee shop.

I had just given a short workshop at their association meeting, so I knew some of them from a few minutes before.

We sat around the table for a while, continuing the previous discussion and building upon it for the benefit of the folks who had not been in the earlier meeting.

As it became clear that I had to leave for the airport one of them suggested that we keep this strategic conversation going via some conference calls. So, for the next several months we did just that, for an hour or so a couple of times a month.

Accidentally I had figured out how to showcase my ability to my ideal audience. Over time they became more comfortable with me, knew I was sincerely interested in them because my observations made sense and they became more confident in my knowledge and ability to help them.

I had been given the time for the know, like, trust, and respect formula to develop.

Over the next several years each of these business owners became our clients and directed countless fees our way - by referring people to us based on their prestige and credibility.

After the third or forth call I took the crucial next step, without which this valuable opportunity would have been reduced to a single event, I called a couple of existing clients.

I asked them if they'd like it if we created a peer group, to put together a board of advocates and help for them and their business. I said that we could meet over the phone so there'd be no travel time, I would help them figure out who to invite and be with them to explain the process when we invited them.

Knowing me the way they do their first question was, how much will this cost - and I said I would be doing it as a volunteer at no charge. I told them that I wanted to learn how to be a better meeting facilitator so I was willing to volunteer my time.

I did not realize it at the time but this was an important element. Since I was not charging and since I was 'just learning' their expectations were easy to meet and it answered the 'what's in it for Wayne' question that was in their minds.

After these next two groups got going I repeated the process again and again. Always for free, a limited number of groups each year - creates scarcity. And if every group is populated with ideal prospects, there has always been more than enough follow on business and referrals to make this the single most profitable thing I do.

If you have a single client that you consider an ideal client type person, that's all you need to get started. In fact if you have someone who is not your client but who knows, likes, trusts and respects you - that will work too.

(Do not create any groups where the people are not all your ideal client types. It will waste your time and theirs and you will take yourself in the wrong direction)

With your ideal client groups you will be modeling your best self in front of people who will either buy your services or refer you to others who will!

The only remaining question is whether you can do the volunteer facilitating or not.

My guess is you'll do fine. They know you're learning so they'll help. They don't know the "right way" to do it anyway and you're not charging for it.

If they sense your commitment to them and to the process, if you are genuinely trying to help they'll be convinced that you are worthy of their trust and respect.

Remember, people don't care how much you know until the know how much you care - about them.

Wayne Messick, co-founder of http://www.iBizResources.com shows you how to create and manage a twenty first century peer group to leverage your relationship with your prospects and clients for greater profitability at with the process he's been using successfully for over a decade to build his client list, grow his database of prospects, and dominate his niche. You can also learn how to connect with prospects, clients, and the media and where is describes how he's using cheap reports to drive new prospects to their web site.

Traditional Tarot

2007-03-09T01:00:00.000+11:00

By Ken Marlborough

The tradition of tarot is estimated to be over five hundred years old with archetypal roots that can be traced back to almost two thousand years. The traditional tarot has given way to the modern methods of divination, but it still remains a reservoir of ancient wisdom. The traditional tarot decks are the source of origin of the modern playing cards.

The history and origin of tarot is not very clear, though there are numerous theories supporting beliefs of its origin from various places such as China, India or Egypt. However, the oldest Tarot cards that are found date back to the fifteenth century and were found in Spain, Italy and France. According to historical evidence, traditionally, tarot cards were used as playing cards with pictures depicting conditions of life, liberal arts and virtues such as temperance and prudence. It is widely believed that initially tarot was not used as a means of divination.

The traditional tarot was adapted to contemporary styles and Rider-Waite Tarot, Aquarian Tarot, Crowley Thoth Tarot and Cagliostro Tarot are now considered the most elementary and traditional tarot card decks. These cards are designed on the basis of the historical cards and considered as ideal choices fro beginners. Rider-Waite Tarot was designed in 1909 by artist Pamela Coleman Smith, according to the specifications provided by Arthur Edward Waite. This deck contains seventy-eight cards with 56 minor arcana cards and 22 major arcana cards. However, this deck revolutionized the traditional decks by assigning pictures to the minor arcana cards. This deck is the world's most popular Tarot deck, which is preferred by beginners as well as advanced students of Tarot.

However, most of the Tarot historians consider all the tarot decks that were in practice used before the nineteenth century as historical decks. Traditional tarot decks are considered to be closely based on the decks that were prevalent in the Golden Dawn era. The A. E. Waite and Pamela Coleman Smith's deck is a fine example of traditional tarot decks. These tarot decks further gave rise to the more popular Rider-Waite deck and Thoth deck.

Tarot provides detailed information on Tarot, Free Tarot Readings, Tarot Reading, Tarot Cards and more. Tarot is affiliated with Reading Tarot Cards.

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Buy and sell tarot cards at Yipeyay.Com

South Florida Real Estate

2007-03-09T00:59:00.002+11:00

By Ken Marlborough

Why do people want to purchase real estate in South Florida? Maybe it is the warm climate, the diverse culture and the many employment opportunities. The South Florida real estate market has reached the double-digit growth scene over the past several years. South Florida has witnessed a real boom in condominium construction as well. The condo frenzy is for a fact playing a big role in South Florida's real estate market.

South Florida is a superb location. Its property rates continue to appreciate, and real estate professionals happily claim that for a long time to come the sky is the limit for property appreciation. Most homes are simple, yet plush and cozy. They include bungalows, villas, row houses, flats and apartments, as well as studio flats.

South Florida real estate has been developed by renowned architects with modern amenities. And almost every home has ample greenery surrounding it, with an appropriate length for a driveway, as well as a large garage, and a private swimming pool in the backyard.

Apart from residential South Florida real estate, commercial properties are all well constructed, with all modern amenities. Most of the offices are ready to use with appropriate furniture.

However, one needs to note that the real estate rates in this region are not standard, but differ on the basis of location. Some areas are considered upscale, where the prices are meant for the rich and famous. There are other zones that are more affordable. But no matter what one pays, there would be rich rewards in years to come.

Florida Real Estate provides detailed information on Florida Real Estate, Florida Commercial Real Estate, Florida Real Estate Listings, Florida Beach Real Estate and more. Florida Real Estate is affiliated with Florida Time Share Promotions.

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Buy and sell South Florida Real Estate at Yipeyay.Com

Roller Shades

2007-03-09T00:59:00.001+11:00

By Ken Marlborough

Windows need to be adequately dressed to allow keeping the light and wind out, when desired. Windows are dressed using varied styles of valances, shades, and curtains. Shades are devices that are used to intercept the sun and its rays, protect the room from direct light, and avoid disturbance to the inhabitants. They are also effectual in shading the room and preventing the variances of weather affecting the room. They are made of different materials and accordingly are of different types.

The simplest of window shades consists of a thin material, similar to paper, that is strung on a roller, which is spring loaded. However, more advanced shades proffer the ultimate style statement and are luxurious in their color selections and textures. Some of the shades are definitive in convenience and can be even accessed with a remote control.

A classic roller shade is sometimes the answer for all the requirements in terms of shades for windows. They are elegant, simple as well as uncomplicated and inexpensive. They are available as light filters or used for darkening rooms. They are found to be very useful when it is important to minimize the heat of the sun but not block on the view. It is observed that use of modern fabrics that are combined with simple utilities make these roller shades a fashionable option.

Many varieties can be selected from these roller shades, two of the major ones being standard and reverse rolls. There is also the possibility of choosing a cassette head rail system. Many additional accessories can be attached to the shades, such as ornamental hems, tassels, and ring pulls. This makes the shades attractive and gives them an animated look. It is also possible to upgrade the basic roller shades by including unremitting cord loops as well as motorization that makes it very easy to lower and lift the shades.

Shades provides detailed information on Shades, Lamp Shades, Roman Shades, Bamboo Shades and more. Shades is affiliated with How to Make Roman Shades.

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Buy and sell roller shades at Yipeyay.Com

Adjustable Computer Desks

2007-03-09T00:58:00.000+11:00

By Ken Marlborough

With seating ergonomics gaining popularity and computer users more concerned about their seating and working positions, adjustable computer desks have become more of a necessity than a luxury. There are a wide variety of adjustable computer desks available -- some specifically designed to meet certain needs, like lumbar or spinal chord problems for instance.

Adjustable computer desks use a variety of means for adjusting heights, with a common method using pneumatic levers. There are usually separate pneumatic levers for different platforms on the desk. Using these levers, the height of the desk can be adjusted to obtain the optimum viewing and seating height.

Most adjustable computer desks also come with added features such as wire management trays, lots of legroom space, CPU pedestals, etc. There are adjustable computer tables that feature multiple independent pieces and equipment surfaces, thus making it easier for people of various heights to use them. This allows different users to adjust the height, distance and angle of the monitor, keyboard and printer or scanner to the most comfortable positions, depending on each person's unique desire. Some higher-end models also allow the user to adjust the position of each of the computer's components independently, providing a variety of adjustable surfaces for each of the computer's peripherals and components.

The adjustment heights for these desks vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, though most models commonly adjust heights ranging from below 20" to 32" and above. A majority of these desks also offer tilting and rotating arrangements. These desks are made from a variety of materials such as aluminum, wood, steel, etc. They are also available in a wide range of colors and finishes, ranging from the hard wood finish to melamine tops.

Adjustable computer desks are ideal for classrooms, labs, or homes where multiple users use the computer. This ensures that the table that seats a grown man comfortably can be adjusted to seat a small child just as comfortably.

Computer Desks provides detailed information on Computer Desks, Corner Computer Desks, Glass Computer Desks, Roll Top Computer Desks and more. Computer Desks is affiliated with Ergonomic Computer Chairs.

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Buy and sell adjustable computer desks at Yipeyay.Com

Computer Training Textbooks

2007-03-09T00:57:00.001+11:00

By Ken Marlborough

Computer training textbooks are primary teaching instruments in the field of computer learning. These are manuals of instruction classified according to the basis of subjects. A large collection of textbooks is available in book shops. Many publishing companies publish computer textbooks written by leading professors, to meet contemporary needs in computer education.

Computer training textbooks are published in fine printed format with hard covers. Most of these have graphical representations, documentation with a good explanation of topics and questionnaires. Computer language textbooks, computer application textbooks, programming and networking textbooks and technical reference books are mainly used in computer classrooms. These are useful for both teachers and students participating in a computer program. Apart from professional textbooks, custom versions of textbooks for specific universities are available in the market. These are typically designed with edited versions of full textbooks. Interactive computer textbooks are very useful for improving reading, reasoning, writing and content mastery.

Computer training textbooks are more expensive than other text books. But it is possible to save some money by smart shopping. For college students, the best sources of computer textbooks are university libraries and off-campus bookstores. Libraries feature a good stock of computer training textbooks that can be used throughout the course. For those looking solely for library books, weekends are the perfect time to locate them. Another method of buying computer textbooks is online purchase, because most teachers use the web to post the textbooks required, prior to the beginning of each semester. You can visit online shopping websites including amazon.com, ebay.com, and half.com for new or used textbooks. Leading publishing agents may also be approached for computer training textbooks.

Owing to increased costs, many publishers sell computer training textbooks as a bundle with extra materials such as website access cards, CDs, and discount coupons. Unfortunately, computer textbooks have a comparatively limited market.

Computer Training provides detailed information on Computer Training, Computer Internet Training, Computer Graphic Training, Computer Forensics Training and more. Computer Training is affiliated with Computer Science Education.

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Buy and sell computer training textbooks at Yipeyay.Com

What Works for Booksellers Works for Buyers Too!

2007-03-09T00:56:00.001+11:00

By Michael Mould

Several years ago the Internet opened up for book sales in a big way with the launch of Amazon.com. About the same time, Abebooks.com started a marketplace for the sellers of used books to make their inventories available worldwide. Since then, an abundance of marketplaces have sprung up and there is no sign of the industry settling any time soon.

As a buyer of new and/or used books, you have many options available to you that didn't exist until recently. Historically, if you wanted a book you had to go to your local bookstore and college students had to buy all of their textbooks from their university bookstore. If your local bookstore did not have the book you wanted your only option was to order it and wait several months for it to arrive, and college students were at a real disadvantage if their university bookstore ran out of stock. Now, in most cases, the solution is as close as the nearest computer, and the book can usually be had within a few days, but for the uninformed Internet buyer, they will still be paying a premium price because they will only be looking for their book at the most popular marketplaces and passing up other marketplaces.

How do I know this? Because I have been an online bookseller for the past five years and have spent a lot of time researching the various marketplaces and the price variations among them. Since I am also an engineer and have a son working on his engineering doctorate right now, I am also keenly aware of the cost of college textbooks, particularly in the sciences. In fact, I coach online booksellers to be successful in their businesses, so I have to stay on top of the marketplace changes to know how to best react from a business standpoint.

Still, I have been surprised by the relatively small number of book buyers taking an interest in the seller end of the business. In almost every other consumer related business that I have ever been involved in, there were always consumers that wanted to completely understand how the sellers performed their business so that as consumers they would be able to buy at lower costs. This particularly baffles me where college students are concerned because they are the consumers of some of the most expensive books in the marketplaces, and it baffles me from two angles. First, it would seem that with relatively low wage incomes they would be interested in saving as much as possible on their textbook purchases, and secondly, most college students sell their unwanted textbooks at the end of the course and I would think they would want to get the most they could for them. Peripherally, I have to wonder why more college students are not more interested in making an income as online booksellers because they are already in one of the best positions for finding good books to sell. The only thing that allows me to rationalize them not getting into online bookselling is that they are still students for a reason or they prefer flipping burgers for minimum wage.

Regardless, I really want to emphasize that if you are a consumer of books and find yourself buying the latest and greatest novel from your local chain bookstore, you really should investigate online bookselling from a seller's standpoint. If you understand how sellers operate online, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars every year. If you are a college student, you should be even more interested because the potential savings for you could be thousands of dollars every year and you just might be able to sell your unwanted textbooks for a profit when you finish with them.

The things an online bookseller knows about the marketplaces can be used by an online buyer as well, but only the ambitious are going to take the steps to optimize the scenario for themselves.

Michael E. Mould is the author of "Online Bookselling: A Practical Guide with Detailed Explanations and Insightful Tips," [Paperback ISBN 1427600708, CD-ROM ISBN 1599714876] and developer of "Bookkeeping for Booksellers," [CD ISBN 1427600694] a 19 sheet linked and tabbed Excel Workbook designed to assist online booksellers with the calculation of their in-state retail sales tax obligations and the preparation of their Schedule C tax forms. "Bookkeeping for Booksellers" also provides 55 integrated graphs to visually show an online bookseller just how their business is performing.

If you would like to learn more about saving money buying books online, or making money selling books online, please visit:

www.online-bookselling.com

or send Mike an email at:

mike@online-bookselling.com

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Buy and sell books at Yipeyay.Com

Expensive College Text Books or Course Packs Instead

2007-03-09T00:55:00.001+11:00

By Katarina Bader

Every semester, I am amazed again at how expensive college text books can be. It is not that there are no ways to buy cheap text books. There absolutely are. The problem is that the professors wait for too long, order too few college text books to the stories, or order them to the wrong stores the ones that charge the highest prices. If I had time to buy every college text book online, I would never have to pay an exorbitant fee. I would be able to get a good deal on all of my reading material. As it stands, there are often not enough used text books to go around. Some classes change their reading material too frequently, while other professors are actually designing new classes every the semester. It is not fair to us poor students.

Some professors in my opinion the nice ones get around the problem of expensive college text books by using course packs instead. Course packs are much easier and cheaper alternative to text books. Because you have them printed yourself at copy shops, you can get course packs for a fraction of what college text books cost. There really is no comparison. The only problem is that course packs do not last nearly as long, and often the quality is lower. Because you are making the copies yourself, there can be small errors that slip into a college course pack. Nonetheless, I vastly prefer them to college text books. I do not care that they are more cheaply bound, or that they do not look as pretty. They have all the information that they need, and they are often more up to date than college text books.

If you do have time, you should look at the course materials ahead of time. If you plan it right, you can often get your college text books online by the second week of class. In the meantime, you can keep up on the reading by borrowing the college text books of your classmates. Although this approach can be somewhat inconvenient, it still saves you a lot of money and so is better in the long run. If you are really on the ball, you can find text books used before they run out. Used college text books are often much more affordable than new ones, and they are usually still in pretty good condition. The problem is that they are in such demand. Everyone wants one.

Katarina Bader http://www.baderbiz.com/ I have a site about college education and student resources.

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Buy and sell college text books at Yipeyay.Com

College Book Stores

2007-03-09T00:54:00.000+11:00

By Josh Riverside

College bookstores can be found in most cities and inside college or university campuses. Using the Internet, one can find literally hundreds and thousands of online book stores. There is a wide variety of options and choices available to students all around the world.

The college textbook market is quite complicated with frequent fluctuations in pricing. Publishers are often accused of coming out with newer edition of books at unnecessary frequencies, which students feel is a deliberate act to make the older versions obsolete. This allegation is refuted by the publishers who feel that they are providing the most current information, by coming out with frequent revisions. Publishers and college book stores are dependent on each for their survival, with each one of them being in the market for making money.

In addition to books, one can find extra materials in the form of CDs in college book stores. Since CDs are cheap to produce and can store vast information, they are becoming popular options, replacing paper text books. Teaching professionals have welcomed such tools, which provide great information to their students. Most of the publishers also have a bundled offer along with college text books in the form of CDs or certain Web resources that can be accessed with the help of the disks.

Many college book stores also sell custom versions of textbooks written by certain professors or meant for only certain universities. There are many college book stores which deal with used books. Students generally sell their books to these book stores, when they are done with the classes. The stores, in turn, sell the used books at a discount to students who will be taking the class the following semester.

It is easy to locate college bookstores. They are all over, on university campuses or they could even be in your neighborhood. Alternately, you can get your books from online stores, which stock thousands of books. Online bookstores, too, have bundled offers and discounts from time to time.

Book Stores provides detailed information on Book Stores, Online Book Stores, Christian Book Stores, Adult Book Stores and more. Book Stores is affiliated with Book Club Questions.

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Buy and sell books at Yipeyay.Com

Audio Books on Tape - Still Listened to Today, But Why?

2007-03-09T00:53:00.000+11:00

By Duane Edwards

Listening to audio books on tape are still favored by some audio book listeners. Even though books on tape are a technology from the past, they are still available as new and used audiobooks. Who uses audio books on tape? Well they are used by audio book rental clubs, audio book retailers, publishers and audio book listeners. The demand is still strong and will be around for many years to come, so enjoy!

The simplicity of Books on tape and the ease of operating a cassette player make audio books on tape a perfect format for the elder and children. When people get older they may find it tougher to read books, especially paper back novels. So books on tape offer a wonderful alternative since there are not much title assortment to large print books.

Books on tape have many benefits that are excellent for the elder and children:

Simple operation of the audiobook player
Still considered a decent audio quality
Automatic bookmarks when the tape is stopped
Simply resume where you stopped listening from
Audio book tapes are durable

But audio books on tape should not be just for the elder or children, everyone can enjoy listening to books on tape. Audio books on tape became popular in the early 1980's, when they were introduced to replace the aging LP vinyl records. If you are looking for older book titles as audio books, the best format to look at is audio books on tape. It is still easy to find the older audiobook titles on tape, Ebay is a great online source for new and used audiobook tapes. There are also some used audio book sites online that still carry audio books on tape as well such as Powells and Amazon.

If you are looking to buy used audio books on tape, be careful to ask the appropriate questions regarding the tape quality. Ask how the tape audio sounds, maybe have the seller rate the audio quality on a scale of 1-10. It is possible to upgrade your audio books on tape to a higher audio quality...Convert tapes to CD!

It is simple to convert audio books on tape to CD, which improves the audio quality as well. You see, do not throw out those older audio books on tape, simply convert the tapes to CD without breaking the bank.

But this is an area that you get what you pay for. There are some free progams that will work, but we highly recommend other programs such as Nero or Sonic. These programs can be purchased in the area of $70.00, but if you are wanting to convert your audio books from tape to CD then do not cut the immediate cost of the program. It is the program that will determine the final audio quality, so it is worth paying a little which will give you a lot in the final product. Also, these programs offer more than just tape to CD converting, you will be able to work on audio, photos, movies and more...a lot more!

Even though some people consider audio books on tape as old technology, there still are benefits to them. Audio books on tape still a recommended format to enjoy, start today with older titles with books on tape.

Convert tapes to CD's easily and economically!

Duane Edwards is the owner and webmaster of http://www.audio-books-for-everyone.com and audiobook junkie. For more information about audiobooks, please visit us!

You are welcome to publish this article in its entirety, electronically, or in print free of charge. You must include the entire author resource box as is, leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.

Used Books Save You Money

2007-03-09T00:50:00.002+11:00

By Susan Jan

With the increased cost of printing and publishing, buying new books is becoming a very costly affair. However, students and researchers need not worry as they can always buy used books from any local bookstore.

Books used by students, scholars or professors do not always end up at the state library and instead end up at the local resellers. These stores work as a bridge between those who want to dispose off their old books and those who are looking to buy. Books often tend to be out of publication or are very difficult to buy owing to their scarcity. The best solution to the situation is to buy used books.

It is surprising to see the used books collection that many of these resellers have. From used text books to old magazines and journals, you are sure to get almost anything that you have been searching for. Used college books are one of the most common items that people look for. From astronomy to animal husbandry, history of Everest climbs to that of the ocean’s deepest trenches – a huge collection of used books are available at the resellers. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to get the desired college book at the first instance itself. To buy that coveted book you may have to visit a few resellers and rummage through the used books stock before you are finally able to find it.

The biggest advantage of used books is their low prices. But when you buy used books the condition of the book is the foremost thing to consider. It is advisable to check the books, especially to see that the books contain all the pages including the index. Often resellers tend to put an attractive cover to hide the book’s damages. You should also be aware of the prevalent market price of the book to ensure that the reseller is not making considerable profits by charging higher than the normal.

Not only can you buy used books but you will also be able to sell used books or exchange used books at the reseller’s. Barter of used books is a good idea, as you can always pick up something useful in exchange of books not needed anymore.

So the next time you want to add a missing edition to your National Geographic collection or buy a part of the Britannica Encyclopedia series, you know where to look.

For more on Used Books visit Susan's sites Buy Used Books and Used College Books, and also at Computer and Technology.

How to Overcome the High Prices of College Textbooks

2007-03-09T00:50:00.001+11:00

By Groshan Fabiola

Every year students require various college textbooks for their classes, spending a small fortune to purchase them. High standards should be improved in the business deal of purchasing new and used books so that all students would benefit of improved methods of learning. In recent years, college bookstores have begun to lose their monopoly over the market, generating pronounced imbalances regarding the average costs of most study materials.

Thousands of students who will soon head off to college campuses nationwide are beginning to realize that it takes quite a bit of capital these days to buy textbooks. In the past two decades, college textbooks prices have increased considerably, at twice the rate of inflation. According to government estimates, students and their families have spent more than $6 billion on new and used textbooks over the period of the academic year 2003-2004. During 2002 and 2004, the average college student spent up to $900 a year for textbooks, around 3 percent more than in the last seven years. Recent studies have also revealed the fact that the average student nowadays spends about $100 on a single curriculum-oriented new book and about $65 on a similar used book.

Fortunately, there are various high-standard educational institutions that are currently striving to overcome such topical issues regarding the low affordability of curricular study materials. The University of Phoenix for instance, has corrected such problems by modifying the general curriculum and preparing a lighter course load for attending students. By replacing most traditional textbooks with e-books, the University of Phoenix has become the first “textbook-less” college in the country.

Highly skilled students joining selected programs nowadays benefit for Microsoft's e-book reader software. However, in order to obtain unlimited access to interactive materials and up-to-date texts online, students still have to pay a per-course fee. In present, the University of Phoenix has almost 95,500 students at more than 100 locations across the country, currently striving to integrate all students in the e-book-oriented study program.

In order to achieve a better position on the market, the great majority of booksellers have recently started to sell textbooks at a considerable discount off the cover price. Furthermore, special areas have been created in order to improve the selling of textbooks on the Internet. Another great source for college books are the online used bookstores, which help students find the textbooks of their interest at considerably lower prices.

Students must be very careful when closing a deal on the Web. Considering the fact that textbook prices greatly vary on the Internet, students are advised to closely analyze all possible alternatives before choosing a certain bookseller over another. It is important to note that the purchase price should not be the only considered aspect when buying textbooks online; students should also factor in shipping costs and delivery time before deciding upon buying their desired textbooks on the Internet.

In order to fight the high cost of college textbooks you should double-check for the correct 10-digit International Standard Book Number, or ISBN. This number is situated above the bar code on the textbook's back cover or title page. When you are purchasing online you should check for the ISBN along with the book title, author and edition.

If you simply can’t afford new textbooks, you should consider purchasing used textbooks, as they are considerably less expensive than their new counterparts. You can purchase a used textbook at about 75 percent of the retail price of a new textbook. Prices vary anywhere from $10 to $80, with an approximate average of $40. Due to the fact that used books are a scarce and limited resource, often being sold out by the beginning of the school year, students may need to shop early in order to obtain their required used books. In spite of this fact, used textbooks are still a reliable, cost-effective alternative to new textbooks, allowing students to spend less money for their education.

So if you want to find out more about textbooks and especially about college textbooks, follow these links, you will also find information for the Dutch versions - studieboeken.

Why Buying Books Online Is Gaining Even Greater Popularity

2007-03-09T00:49:00.000+11:00

By Gregg Hall

Buying books online is great for the reader. The Internet has opened a whole new world for people who can't get to a store because of health issues, distance, or weather. Now you can satisfy your need to read with the click of a mouse. There are many reasons people can't make it to a store to purchase books, for example, they work an odd shift and the stores are closed when they are awake, but the internet is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, and even holidays.

There are many online book sellers that make it easy and convenient. There are some that work in the used book categories. They don't really sell them, they match buyers and sellers. Often times you can buy used books online that cost less than the shipping charge especially if they are a few years old, this is great for college students. College books are outrageously priced and they are only used for a few months. Finding used college books online can save students hundreds of dollars.

When the decision has been made to buy a book it is time to search for it. If you know the author or name of a particular book it can be easier, but if you're not sure what you are looking for and want to browse, there are many online stores that can help. They usually have a side bar with different subject material listed. You can choose a topic or have a search done on a topic of the books they have. Then you will get a listing of books. In the listing is the name of the book, the author, and a small comment about the books content. Some of these stores will even supply the shopper with small excerpts and there is usually a comment section that other reader can use to help with your decision.

After the decision has been made on a particular book, it is time to pay. When paying online it is important to use a secure web page. There are hackers out there looking for your credit card information and will use it if they can. There are other ways to pay too, for example, using an online bank. Pay Pal is an online financial institute that allows you to deposit, withdraw, and spend money in the cyber world.

Usually after you have selected the book and paid for it, there is nothing left to do but wait. You can choose to have a book shipped to you on a faster mail service, but it does cost more. Then after a week or two your new book will arrive.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as buying books online at http://www.bargainbookstoreonline.com

Used Book Stores

2007-03-09T00:48:00.002+11:00

By Josh Riverside

Many college bookstores allow students to sell their books back to the stores. These used bookstores pay around 50% of the original price to the student for these used books. The price could vary though, depending on the book. The used book store market follows a fairly complicated business process. Once a student sells the book back to a college bookstore, it is then re-sold to a national used book company. The same book is then sold to another college bookstore, at the end of which the book is available at a price that could be around 75% of the new book price. During every step of the process, a margin is applied by each of the respective parties to gain profit. This typical business cycle allows everyone in the chain to make money and be in the business. Though the sellers have margins during every step of the process, used books are still quite a bargain when compared to the price range of new books.

Sometimes students sell their books to their juniors. They may advertise the sale of books through posters around the campus or just by passing information by word of mouth. Large universities have dedicated online resources for the same purpose. One can find hundreds of online resources, which deal with used books. Most of these online used bookstores operate on a global scale. One can find used textbooks even on auction websites. One can visit these web sites and search for specific titles from the thousands of books enlisted on them. You can also bid for your book at auction web sites. There are many online directories also which allow you to find a specific used book seller. Used book stores can be found in most of the cities. You can find out from your friends about their location, especially if you are entering college. You can check out with your college book store and find out whether they deal with used textbooks.

Book Stores provides detailed information on Book Stores, Online Book Stores, Christian Book Stores, Adult Book Stores and more. Book Stores is affiliated with Book Club Questions.

Used Books for Sale - Finding Great Deals

2007-03-09T00:48:00.001+11:00

By Morgan Hamilton

Do you love to read books? Well, I certainly do and I often go to used book sales to find great books to read. I also considered library sales as one of the greatest treats when I was a kid. I was very lucky because I lived in a large town with a great library. The library can afford to get rid of great books because it was so big.

They would offer thousands of used books for sale for far less than they were worth. My family and I would go there and fill up boxes and boxes of books because we were all book lovers. We would have enough reading materials for half a year by just spending 20 dollars each.

I have become more pragmatic in my purchases in the present. I'm now going to college so I have to save my money more carefully. As a result, I spend the majority of my money on used text books for sale.

I can usually find most of the used books I need because most of the classes keep the same reading from semester to semester. I can take advantage of used books for sale on just about every topic. Some of the best bookstores are located in college towns.

The World-Wide-Web is also one of the best sources of used books for sale. Using the Internet has some advantages, although it does not match the excitement of a good used books sale. It can also be hard to keep track of used books online because there are so many of them.

You can find almost anything you could want on the web. It was like having a dream come true when I first discovered buying books over the Internet. Online book buying was such a temptation for me that I had to physically leave my house to stop spending money that I didn't have on used books for sale.

I have also begun to sell off my used books so that I can finance my voracious reading habits. After all, many of the best book stores depend on their readers for their supply. It is normal for a reading junkie to buy several used books for sale, and then return them several months later at a significant loss. This way the bookstores that sell used will be well stocked with used books for sale.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Used Books for Sale. Visit our site for more helpful information about Used Books for Sale and other similar topics.

Why The Homeschool Craze?

2007-03-09T00:23:00.001+11:00

By Teri B Clark

Why do families homeschool? That is like asking the question, “Why do families live in Orlando, Florida ”or “Why do families have certain standards?” Every family has a different reason or a number of reasons for all of these questions! If you asked 1000 homeschool parents why they choose to teach at home, although you may get some similar responses, I can guarantee that you would not find two families that have identical feelings on the matter!

No One Reason

That does not mean, however, that explaining “why” is impossible. Although each family has a different answer to this question, many of the motives are similar. Perhaps it is about family values. Perhaps it has to do with a child’s particular learning style. Maybe it is about time – time together and time for learning things that are important to the child. Or maybe it is simply about curriculum choice.

The homeschool adventure begins with a different focus for each family, but the advantages are pervasive: parents as value-setters, customized curricula, attainment of individual goals, and closer family ties.

Top 35 Reasons Families Homeschool

Still wondering about why? Here are the top 35 reasons that others choose to homeschool. Which ones resonate with you?

1. Spend more time together as a family.
2. Spend more time with children when they are rested and fresh rather than tired and cranky from school.
3. Avoid having to struggle to get children to do the tedious busywork.
4. Allow children to have time for more in-depth study than what is allowed in school.
5. Allow children to learn at their own pace - not too slow or too fast.
6. Allow children to work at a level that is appropriate to their own developmental stage. Skills and concepts can be introduced at the right time for that child.
7. Provide long, uninterrupted blocks of time for writing, reading, playing, thinking, or working so that the child is able to engage in sophisticated, complex activities and thought processes.
8. Encourage the child to develop the ability to pace her/himself.
9. Spend a lot of time out-of-doors.
10. Children learn to help more with household chores, developing a sense of personal responsibility. More time spent on household responsibilities strengthens family bonds because people become more committed to things they have invested in (in this case, by working for the family.
11. Children learn life skills, such as cooking, in a natural way, by spending time with adults who are engaged in those activities.
12. Time is available for more nonacademic pursuits such as art or music.
13. Children will learn to design their own education and take responsibility for it.
14. Children will realize that learning can take place in a large variety of ways.
15. Children will learn to seek out assistance from many alternative sources, rather than relying on a classroom teacher to provide all the answers.
16. A more relaxed, less hectic lifestyle is possible when families do not feel the necessity to supplement school during after-school and week-end hours.
17. Learning can be more efficient since methods can be used that suit a child's particular learning style.
18. Children can learn to work for internal satisfaction rather than for external rewards.
19. Children will not be motivated to "take the easy way out" by doing just enough work to satisfy their teacher. They will learn to be their own judge of the quality of their own work.
20. Children will be more willing to take risks and be creative since they do not have to worry about being embarrassed in front of peers.
21. Peer pressure will be reduced.
22. Social interactions will be by choice and based on common interests. Friends can be more varied, not just with the child's chronological age peer group who happen to go to the same school.
23. Field trips can be taken on a much more frequent basis and can be much more enjoyable and more productive when not done with a large school group.
24. Volunteer service activities can be included in the family's regular schedule.
25. Scheduling can be flexible, allowing travel during less expensive and less crowded off-peak times.
26. Religious and special family days can be planned and celebrated.
27. Feedback on children's work will be immediate and appropriate. It can be much more useful than just marking answers incorrect or giving grades.
28. Testing is optional.
29. Grading is unnecessary. Understanding and knowledge are the rewards for studying, rather than grades (or stickers, or teacher's approval, etc.).
30. Children can be consistently guided in a family's values and can learn them by seeing and participating in parents' daily lives.
31. Children will learn to devote their energy and time to activities that THEY think are worthwhile.
32. Children do not have to wait until they are grown to begin to seriously explore their passions; they can start living now.
33. Children's education can be more complete than what schools offer.
34. Children with special needs will be encouraged to reach their full potential.
35. Children will be safer from gangs, drugs, and guns.

1-2-3…Count the Advantages

1. Socialization Benefits: What? This is the main reason that people say you shouldn’t homeschool! I contend, however, that homeschooling offers socialization benefits that public schools can’t offer. By participating in community life, homeschooled children feel comfortable with a wide variety of people. They are not age-segregated all day and therefore, can interact with people of all ages. Many people who come into contact with homeschooled kids remark on how easy it is to talk with them.

2. Less Stress: Yes, homeschooling can be stressful, but it is a stress that can be managed by what you do at home. Those that homeschool find that the lack of nightly homework stress is a big relief! Add to that the fact that schedules are loosened – no bus departures and arrivals, no specific attendance days, no particular hours – and you definitely find a less stressed atmosphere.

3. Teach to the Child: A homeschooled child can be taught in a manner that is best for the child. They can learn the things that interest them most and develop talents in ways not possible in the confining structure of public school. Homeschooling encourages development of a child's own individuality.

This is just a sampling of the benefits of homeschooling. There are many, many more. The benefits are as individualistic as the reasons for homeschooling. Why? Because no two homeschooling families are the same!

Teri B. Clark is a professional writer and published author offering writing help for professionals. Her book, Private Mortgage Investing, is a finalist in the Foreword Magazine's Book of the Year Award. Her book, 301 Things You Can Do To Sell Your Home NOW and For More Money Than You Thought, has just been released. Learn more about Teri at http://TeriBClark.blogspot.com

Trash Talk's Best Tip Picks for 2005

2007-03-09T00:20:00.000+11:00

By Dave Brummet and Lillian Brummet

May 2005 Cardboard works great for weed control in the yard or garden. Lay out the flattened cardboard first making sure to overlap it by at least six inches. If the weeds are very established or if your weeds are more like small shrubs, do a double or even triple layer to ensure nothing grows through. We found that it is best to wet the cardboard with a sprinkler to soften it before applying the top layer of bark mulch or gravel so the cardboard will settle in and smother all the weeds completely. In as little as one year the cardboard will have composted into a rich loamy soil while the weeds have been killed off by lack of sunlight and air. Simply top off the bark mulch periodically as it too breaks down over the years.

July 2005 Vinyl shower curtains reused make good drop cloths for painting projects. In the garden they can be used as row covers for tender spring plants (when a cold night threatens). Like costly landscape fabric use curtains to control weeds in garden beds. Cut an X at each plant location, plant, then close the X around the plant stem. Cover the entire sheet with rocks, gravel or bark mulch.

October 2005 Promote reading in your community, reduce clutter around your home and your contribution of waste in the landfill, save a buck or two and benefit a charity while you are at it. Just how are you supposed to do all this? Management of used books and magazines is a very environmental and community conscious thing for people to participate in. Extending the life of books and magazines is easily accomplished by taping the binding and edges of the covers.

Go through your closets and bookshelves and look for all the used books and magazines that you no longer read. Any library, shelters for the disadvantaged, hospitals and missions are all places to consider for donating. Use the key words ‘book donation’ in a search engine to find places to donate to. Here are just a few sites:

http://www.betterworldbooks.com/
http://www.asiahousinternational.org
http://www.sabre.org/books/bookorg/bkdn_toc.htm
http://www.loc.gov/rrr/amed/afs/alc/bkdncte.html
http://www.ala.org – lists contact information for organizations that distribute used books.
http://www.nationalbook.org/bookdonations.html – lists places that accept book donations.

Dave and Lillian Brummet, authors of the book Trash Talk, offer a free service called Tip of the Month where visitors can learn new reduction and reuse ideas that will save money for the household and office on their website.

~ Lillian and Dave Brummet, authors of the books Trash Talk andTowards Understanding. http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit

Junk No More: What to Do With the Things You No Longer Want

2007-03-09T00:19:00.000+11:00

By Lisa Koosis

It happens all the time. You've taken the time to clean out your closets (or your drawers or your cabinets) and after all is said and done, you're left with a whole bunch of things that you no longer want. Throwing it out would be a waste, but you don't have the inclination, nor the space to keep it.

Unfortunately, it's all too tempting to stuff your closets and drawers with junk, things you no longer need nor want, things that haven't been used in a year or more. It's all too tempting to tuck it away and forget about it for another year.

So what can you actually do with the things you no longer want? Here are a few ideas:

- Sell. Have a yard sale. Better yet, organize a neighborhood-wide yard sale. Make some money while you get rid of unwanted goods.

- Donate. Clothes, linens and many other household items can be donated to organizations such as the Salvation Army, The Goodwill, local churches and the like. Sometimes hospitals, libraries, or women's shelters are looking for donations of books and magazines. Many of these donations can be tax deductible as well as going towards helping a good cause, so be sure to check. Keep an eye out for donation drop boxes in the parking lots of stores you frequent.

- Help out. Local animal shelters and veterinary offices are often on the lookout for old towels and sheets. For things that are not of standard donation quality, think outside the box. There are plenty of places that can make good use of things that you might think should just go in the trash.

- Trade. Take used books to your local used bookstore. Many will take your old books and give you credit towards purchases in the store.

- Take it online. Perhaps you have antiques stored in that closet, or vintage clothing--even baseball cards or old playbills. Why not sign up for an account with an online auction house such as Ebay and sell your merchandise online.

There are plenty of options for ridding your closets and storage areas of unwanted items without resorting to tossing them in the trash. With a little creative thinking, your old stuff can find a new life somewhere where it will be put to good use.

Lisa is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Poetry Contests.

Extend the Life of Books and Magazines

2007-03-09T00:11:00.000+11:00

By Dave Brummet and Lillian Brummet

Promote reading in your community, reduce clutter around your home and your contribution of waste to the landfill, save a buck and benefit a charity while you are at it. Just how are you supposed to do all this? Well, it is actually quite simple. Go through your closets and bookshelves and look for all the used books and magazines that you no longer read.

Families that have moved repeatedly know the curse of hoarding is best avoided if at all possible. Moving literally hundreds of pounds of them certainly prompted us to systematically read our books once each and then decide whether it was a "keeper" or not.

Management of used books and magazines is a very environmental and community conscious thing for people to participate in. Extending the life of books and magazines is easily accomplished by taping the binding and edges of the covers. This repairs any damages, prevents wear and tear, and increases the value because it is nicer looking.

There are many options for you to consider for used books and magazines:

* Donating to any library is a good idea. Even well read publications are appreciated. If they do not make it to the library bookshelf, they will be sold in their annual fundraising book sale. There are many kinds of libraries to consider aside from public ones - including church libraries, retirement home libraries, coffee shops and mobile libraries.

* Consider participating in Book Crossing (www.bookcrossing.com) - a charming way to encourage reading and create a connection with the community. This program requests that people register their used book, place an informative label on it and leave it at a common destination place (i.e. bus stop). Individuals that pick up the book visit the website and describe where they found it and where they decided to leave it for the next person to read. It can be quite interesting to see how far the book travels!

* Operation Paperback (www.operationpaperback.org) accepts donated reading material for the military.

* Trading in at the used bookstore is one of our favorite past-times. It feels good to support a local store that focuses on 'reuse'. The trouble is our shelf is filled once again when we return with bundles of 'new' books to read!

* Get involved in exchange loops with friends, family or co-workers. By doing this, we have found ourselves exposed to all sorts of subjects and writing styles that we may not have picked up ourselves.

* Using the Key Words "Book Swap" in a search engine reveals many places online where one can trade used books, including:

- www.paperbackswap.com
- www.titletrader.com
- www.frugalreader.com
- www.bookswap.com

* Leave a box of books near your door for guests to riffle through and have their pick. This way you don’t have to remember to trot out the box when people are visiting.

* Donate to any fund raising event held by schools, churches or non-profit groups.

* Sell, or give away in a garage sale. We always offer free stuff when we have a garage sale. One day we set out a box of magazines, thinking we would be lucky to see half of them off. One of the first bargain hunters happily scooped up the entire box. She couldn’t believe her luck.

* Many waiting rooms (doctor, lawyer, accountant and banking offices) and staff lunchrooms accept donated reading materials.

* Consider hospitals - their patients have to do something healthier than staring at a TV.

* A Local Literacy program.

* Coffee shops are another great place to try.

* Shelters for the poor or disadvantaged, Women's shelters and missions are other places to consider for your donations. There are a number of less-privileged areas (i.e. Africa) that are hungry for our used school and university books in particular. In keeping with this topic, using the key words ‘book donation’ in a search engine turns up pages of places to donate to.

Here are a few of the sites:

- www.asiahousinternational.org
- www.sabre.org/books/bookorg/bkdn_toc.htm
- www.loc.gov/rrr/amed/afs/alc/bkdncte.html
- www.ala.org – lists contact information for organizations that distribute used books.
- www.nationalbook.org/bookdonations.html – lists places that accept book donations

Written by Dave and Lillian Brummet based on the concept of their book, Trash Talk. The book offers useful solutions for the individual to reduce waste and better manage resources. A guide for anyone concerned about his or her impact on the environment. (http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit)

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Buy and sell books and magazines at Yipeyay.Com

Princess Birthday Party Ideas - An Enchanting Birthday

2007-03-08T23:31:00.002+11:00

By Mike Dougherty

Once upon a time in a kingdom run by the most wonderful king and queen (you), there lived a beautiful princess (your child) who was preparing to celebrate her birthday.

Then one night the princess had a dream and in her dream she wished for an enchanted princess birthday party.

The King and Queen wanted to make the princess's dream come true, so they planned a lovely party just to please their daughter.

With these enchanted princess birthday party ideas, your child's wishes and dreams will come true.

Imagine your little girl all dressed up in her royal princess costume, happily greeting her party guests as they arrive for her special celebration.

Invitations

I suggest the "royal treatment" for your special celebration announcements.

As the royal family, you may wish to send your invitations on parchment paper. When your invitation is ready to deliver, roll up the parchment paper and tie a bright red or purple ribbon around it.

Your royal wording might start off like this.

"Announcing a royal celebration"

"Once upon a time... As a royal subject, your presence is requested by the king and queen of the kingdom (your last name) to attend an enchanted Princess Birthday Party for her highness, princess (your child's first and last name) on the magical occasion of her (how old she will be) birthday."

"This royal celebration will be a princess costume party where all are invited to dress in their princess wardrobe. Our enchanted birthday party will take place on (day and date) and will begin at (time) with our celebration concluding at precisely (end time of your party)."

"The King and Queen request that all royal subjects planning to be in attendance, please RSVP by (day and date)."

"Her royal highness princess (your child's first name) looks forward to your attendance at her princess birthday party which promises to be an enchanting time for all."

"Our party will take place at the castle (families last name) located at (address).

Deliver Your Invitation

Here's a fun idea. Have someone in costume actually hand deliver your invitations. Imagine how surprised and delighted your party guests will be. And they'll know this party is going to be very special. What fun.

Royal Decorations

When decorating, the royal family always uses red, purple, pink, blue and white balloons. You can also find a number of excellent online party supply stores where you'll find all kinds of incredible decorations to brighten up your castle.

You can cover your ceiling in colorful helium balloons, and be sure to decorate your mail box and your front door to help your party guest locate your castle entrance. You might decorate your front door with a colorful balloon archway for your guests to walk under.

Princess Birthday Party Ideas - Games

Pin The Tiara On The Princess

Cut out a picture of a princess from a coloring book, or get a princess poster, then cut out some small paper tiaras that your guests can stick on the picture... Remember to put each child's name on their tiara.

Enchanted Musical Statues

Have your party guests move to the center of the room. Start playing some music related to your theme. Have your guests start moving and dancing around... Then stop the music and everyone has to freeze like a statues. Anyone who moves is out. Keep repeating this until only one person is left.

Royal Message Relay

Have all your guests sit in a circle. Have your birthday child think of a silly royal phrase or sentence. It might be a funny message for the king and queen... Your birthday child whispers the message to the guest on their right. That child whispers the message to the person on their right until the message travels all the way around the circle to the person sitting just to the left of your birthday child. That child then repeats the message out loud... Then the birthday child tells everyone what the original message was... Everyone gets a turn. The more the message gets mixed up, the more fun it is.

Princess Dress Up

Pick up some fun things like tiaras, mirrors, combs, boas, jewelry, long gloves and even high heels for the young ladies to play with.

And don't forget to take lots of still pictures and shoot lots of video.

Princess Birthday Party Ideas - Royal Food And Drink

May I suggest the following elegant finger foods be served.

Royal melon, served with tooth picks

Finger sandwiches

Carrot Sticks

Grapes

Celery sticks filled with peanut butter

Purple, red or pink Jelly Beans

Small crackers with cheese

Cherries

Royal orange slices

Apple slices with caramel dip

Strawberries dipped in chocolate

And for those thirsty moments:

Royal punch with sherbet ice cream and a taste of ginger ale

Sparkling grape or apple drink

Lemonade with strawberries

Princess Birthday Party Idea

We hope your child's enchanted Princess Birthday Party is a big hit and that your child's birthday wishes and dreams do come true.

Mike Dougherty is a grandfather with lots of birthday party experience. For more exciting Princess Birthday Party ideas, take a quick look at http://fun-kid-birthday-parties.com

Should Students Have To Wear School Uniforms?

2007-03-08T23:31:00.001+11:00

By Matthew Sirpis

The great debate continues about should students have to wear school uniforms? There is no definitive answer as it entirely depends upon the persons beliefs. There are benefits for some children who wear uniforms and disadvantages to others.

The main reason schools in America choose not to allow their students to wear their own clothes is because of the gangs. Having a uniform stops gang members from displaying their colours and garb. The schools also believe it helps stop violence and helps instill a sense of pride in the students. It also helps to break down the barriers between different socioeconomic groups.

Below are some opinions taken from a messageboard regarding the issue:

"I feel we should keep to the uniform. It sets an example of the school. It is representation the community. It is easy to point out different people. Also there would be more fights/bullly's due to the lack of 'fashion'. "

" Many schools throughout the U.S. force students grades kindergarten through twelfth to wear uniforms. Students who attend public schools should not have to wear uniforms for four reasons.

1. School uniforms inhibit students€™ individuality. Young people often express their feelings through the clothing that they wear. Uniforms will take away this form of expression. Why should school districts try to make everyone look the same?

2. A school uniform policy inhibits a student's freedom of choice. Schools teach students that our country is a free one. But when school boards make students wear what they tell them too-- it curtails the students' freedom.

3. There is the issue of cost. Many parents shop for their children's clothes at used and discount stores. Uniforms can cost more money than these families might be able to afford. Also, these students would need to buy additional clothing to wear after school and on the weekends. That's double the amount of money a family would spend than they would without the uniforms.

4. The last reason I do not enjoy the thought of school uniforms is comfort. Students enjoy wearing comfortable clothing to school. Uniforms are not necessarily comfortable. Also, wearing a uniform might make the student uncomfortable around people outside the school who don't have to wear a uniform.

If we want individuality, freedom, and comfort for students while keeping costs down for families, we should not have a school uniform policy for students who attend public schools. "

" In my opinion, right up to year 11 students/kids should have to wear school uniform, it stops all the arguments about who has the latest fashions etc.

But when you reach college or 6th form it should stop, because by then your old enough to know not to take the pee out of what people wear. Mind you saying that, most of the people at my 6th form were wallys. "

Matthew Sirpis
http://www.mariamagic.com

In Pursuit Of The Ideal Gift

2007-03-08T23:30:00.001+11:00

By Jane Woodington

The Recipient:
Sex, age, race/culture (e.g. ensure you are aware of any cultural insensitivities prior to your search for the ideal gift), and your relationship to the recipient are all important factors to be considered. The hobbies/leisure interests, needs and wants often serve as a good starting point. As there remains considerable variety in the type or theme of gifts it is important to ascertain such early in the search e.g. adrenalin activity gifts such as sky diving, V8 Super Car Racing, relaxation / pamper gifts, spa gifts or traditional keepsake gifts.

Also the number of people you are buying for will factor quite highly in your considerations check-list e.g. numerous Xmas presents for the masses may be replaced with unique gift involving group activity e.g. Off road go-karting (V8 buggies).

The Occasion :
Etiquette may feature in certain occasions e.g. Wedding Anniversaries, Wedding gift registries, Valentines Day gifts (e.g. colour of roses has different connotations): red for romance, yellow for friendship and joy, purple indicating that you fell in love at first sight, and orange for desire. Nowadays the Valentines Gifts have been extended to include diamonds in various forms to symbolize that your love will last forever. Birthday Gifts may take the form of traditional, personal gifts of birthstones or birth flowers e.g. March birthstone is aquamarine or bloodstone, signifying wisdom, and the birth flower Jonquil. An alternative to the stress of organising a birthday party may be in the form of an activity gift e.g. young teenager’s gift of group laser skirmish.

Mothers Day:
Considerable traditional variation exists both on the day of celebration and on the gift. In Britain it is celebrated on the 4th Sunday of Lent; the traditional gift is a fruit cake. Spain celebrates Mothers Day on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and France on 25th May, the traditional French gift being a cake in the shape of flowers being presented at the family dinner. International Mothers Day is celebrated on 11th May (Australia, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Belgium, and USA). The traditional gift in the USA is a bouquet of white carnations (representing deceased mothers) and pink carnations (representing living mothers). The Australian traditional gift is the chrysanthemum.

Corporate gifts:
Are becoming more popular especially as motivators, appreciators and to promote good will not only amongst the employees, but also as customer / client builders. Gifts are often given to clients as deal closers. Indeed, there are many team building activity gifts that are taking the corporate world by storm. Activity gifts, be it a relaxation pamper gift, or a high adrenalin thrill seeking gift make for a refreshing change from the traditional company logo embossed ‘memorabilia’ and also portray an element of uniqueness and thought behind the gift giving gesture.

The Gift :
Be it an unusual, unique gift or gadget, an activity gift (adrenalin thrill seeking or relaxation / pamper gift), we must consider the aim / intention behind the act of gift giving e.g. educational, a "thank you for your hard work", or just merely to fulfill the recipients dream gift wish. The time of year and location may also be applicable especially in activity gifts and choosing floral bouquets which may well be subject to availability.

AS with all gifts, presentation is important for the 'wow' factor, as is the recipient's perceived value of the ideal gift.

Purchasers Factors:
Value: Careful selection of one unique, quality present is far better strategy than bulk, lesser value gifts. “One gift creates appreciation, many gifts create expectation." (Author: Tony Bright). Budget: This must be set quite high on the priority list, unless a syndicate is an option if you have found the ideal gift but funds are limited.
Ease of ordering and any return polices must be considered.
Internet nowadays has taken a major hold in searching for both gift ideas, ease of ordering, and payment. No need to take a frustrating, time consuming trip to your local shopping centre and fight with traffic and parking spots. Further there are no pushy sales folk to contend with when online shopping.
Online shopping frees your time to browse any time of day or night…the true 24/7 shop!
In stock / availability of the ideal gift… an important factor with many popular / en vogue gifts.
Delivery can be organized to be either direct to your door or the recipients, many online gift companies provide gift wrapping services. Shipping / delivery costs and time Quality and Value for money.

The quest for hunting down the ideal gift can prove both time consuming and frustrating. Many people wander aimlessly around shopping centers in search of inspiration. The internet is often the best option for refining such searches, and can also serve as a base for price comparison. Also remember ingenuity and the pleasure in giving and receiving far outweighs the matching dollar for dollar in gift exchange exercises.

The above is intended to serve as a quick reference to focus your search for the ideal gift for all occasions.

http://www.uniquegiftsngadgets.com

Unique gifts and gadgets: gifts for all ages and all occasions. Ideal gifts that are remembered and appreciated long after the occasion. From traditional keepsake gifts to relaxation or adrenalin thrill gifts. Gift vouchers for the undecided.

Shifting from Two Incomes to One: Embracing The Virtues of the Single-Income Family

2007-03-08T23:29:00.000+11:00

By Christine Conners

If you are considering shifting from two incomes to one, you probably already prepared yourself for the financial changes. But thriving on a single income requires more than just clipping coupons and eating more meals at home. To succeed we must alter our philosophical mindset and embrace the six virtues of the single-income family:

Virtue 1: Sacrifice –Shifting to one income requires sacrifice. It is this same sacrifice that causes stay-at-home parents to recoil when they are told that they are ‘fortunate', ‘blessed', or ‘lucky' to be home. While they may be blessed indeed, most families make major sacrifices in order to enjoy that blessing.

Virtue 2: Humility - I was in line at Goodwill once when the phone belonging to the lady in front of me began to ring. She picked it up and said, "Oh Hi! Well, I'll be there in about 15 minutes. I'm at the mall." I thought about yelling, "Don't believe her! She's in line with us losers at Goodwill!" I find no shame in shopping at Goodwill. In fact, had I taken the call, it probably would have sounded like this: "Girlfriend, guess where I am? I'm at Goodwill, and you would not believe the deals today!"

Virtue 3: Simplicity - A life of simplicity is in many ways a spiritual quest, one that requires that we separate ourselves from a world obsessed with having the newest, biggest, and best. The goal of simplicity is to find peace in a walk that is often far different from the others walking around you. While your working friends and neighbors may be buying bigger homes, dressing their children in brand-named clothes, and enjoying fabulous vacations, you on the other hand may be downsizing your home, dressing your children in hand-me-downs, and selling family heirlooms to pay the phone bill. To find peace in this means that we are not envious, angry, or bitter about the absence of things that we've chosen to live without.

Virtue 4: Humor - I have to admit that it took us a while before we saw the humor in a used beat up minivan we purchased a few years back. Within a short period of time, everything that could possibly break on that death trap did. From the air conditioner to the transmission, from the power windows to the suspension, one-by-one, front to back, things just fell apart.

Our ongoing problems with the van went from distressing to absurd when the passenger door spontaneously rusted itself from the hinge followed by total failure of all the dashboard instruments. We improvised to get by. The passenger door was held shut by duct tape and a rope tied to the inside handle. Vehicle speed was estimated by the sound of the wind blowing past our window. Finally, the transmission failed, putting an end to the yearlong battle. We certainly haven't always appreciated the humor at the time, but our low-income adventures eventually provide chuckles down the road.

Virtue 5: Gratitude - When we are always in a state of want, we fail to appreciate what it is we already have. Instead of comparing yourself to those who have more, try to compare yourself to those who have less, and be grateful for the blessings that you do have.

Virtue 6: Reject Materialism - One of the more difficult challenges to our resolve comes from envy. As we watch our neighbors and friends enjoying the finer things in life, it is easy to assume that they must be happier than us. But the research on the subject conflicts with this premise. Dr. Ed Diener has studied subjective well-being (SWB) and wealth. He concludes:

"It appears that a higher income might help if we are very poor. Gaining more income if we are middle-class or upper-class and are living in a wealthy nation is unlikely to substantially bolster our SWB on a long-term basis." (Will Money Increase Subjective Well-Being?, Diener and Biswas-Diener, 2001)

Now what if your basic needs are being met, yet you find yourself experiencing a great deal of monetary discontent? Materialism may be your problem as Dr. Tim Kasser's research explains:

"When people believe materialistic values are important, they report less happiness and more distress, have poorer interpersonal relationships, contribute less to the community, and engage in more ecologically damaging behaviors." (www.knox.edu/tkasser.xml, 2005)

Shifting from two incomes to one not only requires we make dramatic financial changes, but that we adopt a philosophical mindset that embraces sacrifice, humility, simplicity, humor, and a rejection of the worlds emphasis on material things.

Christine Conners is the author of several books including "From High Heels to Bunny Slippers: Surviving the Transition from Career to Home". Christine is a psychotherapist who believes it is time the therapeutic community recognize the very real psychological challenges that can occur during the career-to-home transition:

For more information about these challenges, visit Christine at: http://www.booksbyconners.com/bunnyslippers.htm

Attraction - Be Careful!

2007-03-08T22:12:00.000+11:00

By E. Raymond Rock

Research has revealed that the part of our brain that is stimulated when we are in love is not the emotional centers as once thought, but the part of the brain that controls physical lust. In other words, being in love has everything to do with sex and little to do with love. Emotionally, after the sex, we become attached to the company of the other person and use them for our pleasure. When they are away from us, we become despondent, like any addict that is missing a fix, and can’t wait until we see them again, so that they can stimulate our senses. We see them, touch them, smell them, taste them, think about them, listen to them – all of our senses are involved, and this is happiness.

When the sex cools, as it will (believe it or not) usually beginning in about 2 years and really becoming everyday in seven years, all the pleasure we once derived from the other person begins to change. We don’t hold hands as much now, or talk all night as we once did. In other words, the other person doesn’t stimulate our senses as they once did.

A new romance will certainly revive this sensory excitement, and this is why many couples choose to stray a bit. Then of course, everything crashes, and what was once heaven becomes a horrible hell, as everything is sorted out.

About fifty percent of couples, however, do make it. This is usually because the lust they once felt has turned into respect and admiration, as each has repeatedly given themselves up in many ways, every day, to their partner in a selfless manner. When two are doing this, the partnership becomes very strong. The difference between maturity and stupidity is the reliance on sensual pleasure for happiness and contentment. You can easily spot those who are addicted to their senses. Just look at their lives.

Trust in a partnership is the key. Without trust, everything that we work toward is tainted. Mutual trust is crucial. Trusting each other completely means that every obstacle can be overcome, and each can be secure in their feelings and in their work toward a common goal. Without trust, everything falls apart as each is forced to selfishly fend for him or herself, losing the vulnerability and simplicity of love.

When out in daily life, always think of your partner’s welfare before taking any action. Our thoughts preclude words and our words many times preclude actions. Therefore, be careful of your thoughts. That is your first protection. If this protection fails, then be careful of your words because the complications of a first word will grow like flowering vines in springtime. The last protection is your actions. This is where your karma is made. Be fearful of wrong action for it will haunt you for innumerable lifetimes as well as possibly making this very existence a living hell.

So understand that initial attraction is no more than animal lust, and has nothing to do with what happens in the long run. It’s a crapshoot. If you want to determine how things will be down the line, wisdom must prevail over hormones. Animals can have sex; sex is not rocket science. It’s easy to do. But animals walk away . . . we can’t.

E. Raymond Rock of Fort Myers, Florida is cofounder and principal teacher at the Southwest Florida Insight Center, http://www.SouthwestFloridaInsightCenter.com His twenty-eight years of meditation experience has taken him across four continents, including two stopovers in Thailand where he practiced in the remote northeast forests as an ordained Theravada Buddhist monk. His book, A Year to Enlightenment (Career Press/New Page Books) is now available at major bookstores and online retailers. Visit http://www.AYearToEnlightenment.com

A Few of My Favorite Electric Guitars

2007-03-08T18:51:00.001+11:00

By Bill McRea

There are favorite electric guitars that every guitarist will love to have. Yes, every guitarist will be glad to own a '54 Strat or a '58 Les Paul. But that's as far as it goes: Love to have. These guitars simply cost a fortune and unless you're a guitar star, you'll only own them in your dreams.

So, for the rest of us, here are favorite electric guitars that you can own even if it means taking a mortgage (At least you can pay for these ones)...

For those of us who still insist on having a guitar that will give us some bragging rights, here's one that should attract a lot of envy: Fender Custom Shop Limited 60th Anniversary Presidential Strat.

This electric guitar is built by Fender Custom Shop. In case you don't know about this shop, they have been responsible for the building of Fender's reproduction of past classics and highly personalized custom Fender guitars. Both of which are very respected categories of guitars. These guitars are built by the same hands that built Fender guitars for Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Merle Haggard.

The Fender Custom Shop Limited 60th Anniversary Presidential Strat will not have more than 100 issued.

I won't go into all the features that make this guitar such a great favorite. If you want to get the details, check any online store. And I won't be surprised if you drop your jaw in disbelief. Well, that's a personal opinion.

The next guitar I'll like to talk about is one that's not just going into my select collection. This one will go on the road tours, gigs, studio and anywhere else in-between.

If I had to pick only one guitar for all my playing needs, it would be: Line 6 Variax 700 and for good reason...

This electric guitar is the equivalent of the world's best acoustic and electric guitars all rolled into one. It models a total of 25 great guitars and string instruments! Thanks to modeling technology from Line 6.

Here's what it comes loaded with...

Great models of different classic electric and acoustic guitars, a resonator, electric sitar and a banjo. All you need to call any of these instruments up is just a knob and the 5-way pickup selector. Imagine a guitar that suddenly changes from a Strat to a Martin acoustic guitar with just the flip of a switch and you get the real picture.

I love this one because of its versatility. Yes, for those who really demand a lot more from one guitar, here's your baby. Try it out and see if it won't become at least one of your favorite electric guitars too.

Bill McRea is the publisher of Guitar Warehouse the best place to buy a guitar We specialize in electric guitars. Best Price Guarantee and free guitar lessons too.

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Buy and sell electric guitars at Yipeyay.Com

Buying Guitars Online

2007-03-08T18:50:00.001+11:00

By Bill McRea

There are many things that you can buy easily online. A guitar is one of them but with a big caveat. You must make sure you buy from a reputable music store.

This is not one of those stuff you should buy at Ebay unless you just want to take a gamble. A slightly bent neck which no picture can reveal will make a guitar give you very unreliable performances.

There are also guitars that may have factory faults. These issue may not be very rampant, but it does happen that a guitar gives you wrong notes when you play them in a particular fret or fret ranges.

So what do you do to ensure you get a great guitar online?

It is usually a great idea to buy from shops that have built a reputation. Such stores pride themselves in their delivery of great products and customer support. The best stores do check each guitar. And when I say "check" I mean a real guitarist who has years of experience actually ensures that each guitar stocked is all it claims to be.

Another good way of ensuring you're not burned is to check their return policy. This tells you what they will do if you return your product as faulty. The better stores usually bear the cost and send you another. That way, although you may lose a few bucks in shipping, your main investment is really covered.

And the great thing about buying your guitar online is that you are sure of getting it at the best price possible. Why is this so?

It is because most of these stores don't really need to keep a physical inventory of these products. They just drop-ship once you complete your order.

You also have the opportunity of reading reviews from people who have bought similar guitars. These reviews are well worth it because the stores don't usually manipulate them. Why should they when they know you will most likely buy from them when you see they tell it as it is. After all, they have the other guitar, too.

Buying guitars online gives you options and convenience that you can't get otherwise.

Bill McRea is the publisher of Guitar Warehouse, the best place to buy a guitar. We specialize in electric guitars. Best Price Guarantee and free guitar lessons too.

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Buy and sell guitars at Yipeyay.Com

Why Do Grand Pianos Have Superior Sound?

2007-03-08T18:49:00.000+11:00

By Gray Rollins

Grand pianos are seen as the pinnacle of all instruments, and are widely associated with the glamorous jazz scene, and classical recitals. But what is it exactly about the grand piano that makes it sound better than other types of piano, and is the fact that grand pianos are considerably more expensive really justifiable?

Grand pianos are a relatively modern technology in piano design. Furthermore, they have proven to be the preferable design of choice for most of the world's top pianists and enthusiasts. They differ from the other major classification of upright pianos in a number of ways, largely relating to configuration and size. The grand piano strings horizontally, and benefits from the force of gravity in its mechanism. Additionally, its sprawling structure allows for a fuller sound to resonate through the bridge, giving an impressive tonal distinction between grands and most upright models. Uprights on the other hand strive to be tight and compact, whilst also affording similar tonal quality. Of course, something has to give and with uprights, it’s the overall sound quality which is simply non-comparable to that of a grand. However, the compressed mechanism on the upright is beneficial as a small and compact instrument for practice and smaller public recitals.

Additionally, the grand piano also allows more accomplished pianists to perform ornamentation and certain other musical features thanks to a special lever, which holds the hammer above the string for longer. This means that by rapidly tapping the key, the hammer has less distance to move to reach the string which ultimately correlates to an increased ability to perform ornamentation and more complex staccato rhythms. With the upright design, it is impossible to include this feature, therefore you will never be able to achieve the same overall responsiveness and feel as with a grand piano, and the more accomplished player should feel limited by the scope for ornamentation on the upright.

The fact that the grand piano occupies more space allows its mechanism more freedom to strike the string clearly. Additionally, the horizontality allows for a deeper resonation through the wood which adds to sound. Throw in the added benefit of the repetition lever, and you've got yourself a quality, unbeatable sound. Although the uprights really can't compete, they certainly have the edge when it comes to space-efficiency and cost. It really is a case of determining your needs and objectives, before selecting the piano that's right for you.

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for MyPianoSecrets.com. If you want to learn how to play the piano, then read this review of Rocket Piano. If you want to learn more about how to buy and transport a piano, then visit PianosCentral.

Buy and sell pianos at Yipeyay.Com

Life Records A Hope For Hip Hop And Reggae Music

2007-03-08T18:48:00.000+11:00

By Kerry Brown

Life Records is a record label out of Montreal, Canada that is promoting the advancement of life through music. This hip-hop, reggae and rnb record label boasts a strict dedication to purely positive music to stimulate the body and touch the soul. The message of this label appears to have been developed in stark opposition to the common derogatory themes of most rap and hip hop songs.

In close inspection life records looks to dash a touch of cultural , societal and spiritual messages in their music. This musical message coming from this label is filled with knowledge from many a great man of history such as: Jesus Christ, Marcus Garvey, Napoleon Hill, Haile Selassie and many more. However, though the songs are filled with such a positive message, nothing is lost in entertainment value as the beats and musical arrangements are still set for one to groove all night long.

If you were on this website a couple of weeks ago, you would view tons of links such as: artist profiles containing information and pictures, radio shows, singles, albums and much more. The website currently looks to be in construction mode right now with a new template and only a couple songs on the flash media player on the front page. Notwithstanding, they do have a mailing list which notifies their fans when they update and it also looks as though they are in album preparation.

With hip hop and rap sales going down, labels like this have a great chance to have a large impact on the society. I know that Life Records is not the first label to step up to the plate with positive, entertaining music , however once fully on their feet, one knows that there is great opportunity for this label to touch many a young person , young in age and young in heart to live and enjoy a better life.

Kerry Brown for Life-records

Learn more and more about religion at http://www.liferecordsonline.com liferecordsonline

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Piano Books: The Top Piano Books To Help You Become a Better Piano Player

2007-03-08T18:47:00.002+11:00

By Duane Shinn

There are umpteen zillion piano books available in music stores and online at such places as Amazon. And piano books are usually necessary if your goal is to become a better pianist.

But how does a person know which piano books are necessary and which books are redundant, to say nothing of good or bad. There are books on music theory, scales, chords, books about composers, books about music in general, and of course piano lesson books by Schaum, Williams, Alfred d'Auberge, Bastien, John Thompson, Glover, etc., etc.

The best way is to divide the study of piano playing into it's components:

General lesson piano books:

While there are many, for the adult beginner I would select the series by Bastien titled "The Adult Beginner" It is excellent for adults, and includes quite a bit of music theory along with the piano lessons.

General books about music:

Far and away the most inspiring book about music in general is "The Joy of Music" by Leonard Bernstein. If you want to wrap your brain around music, this is the book for you. (Bernstein, in case you don't know, was both a great conductor and a great composer, having written "West Side Story" and many others.)

Another great selection would be "What To Listen For In Music" by Aaron Copeland. (He was also a great composer.)

Technique books:

The best book I have found for developing finger dexterity and piano technique is a book that has been around for a hundred years or so, but is still the standard. It is "The Virtuoso Pianist in 60 Exercises - Complete: Piano Technique" by C. L. Hanon

Music theory books:

There are many, most of which are complex and difficult to understand, but a good choice for a beginner would be "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Music Theory" by Michael Miller.

Books on piano chords:

In this category I'm going to have to cast all modesty aside and select my own book titled "Piano Chords & Chord Progressions: The Secret Backdoor To Exciting Piano Playing". It's thorough, cheap, and very easy to read and understand.

Song books:

In addition to books that teach all aspects of piano playing, you'll need several good songbooks so you can practice the things you are learning. The piano books you select are largely a matter of taste: if you love rock, you'll want to buy books of rock songs. If you love jazz, or gospel, or pop, or whatever, you'll want to get the song books appropriate to your likes and tastes.

But in addition to regular piano song books, be sure to also get a "fake book". A fake book is a book which contains the melody, the words, and the chord symbols for songs. Usually a fake book has a thousand or more songs in it, so it is a huge bargain.

When I was a teenager fake books were illegal, but they were sold under the counter to musicians all the time. I paid $50. for my first fake book (which I still have, incidentally) which contained only 200 songs. Fifty bucks back then is similar to the national debt now. But it was something working musicians had to have.

Now fake books contain thousands of songs and sell for much less -- often just $25. or so. So be sure to pick one up -- preferably several, as they come in all flavors -- jazz, folk, western, gospel, pop, and just about any other musical classification that you could think of.

All of these books can be obtained at your local music store or from online stores such as Amazon.

Then there is another totally different class of piano books that are part of an audio-visual course. Usually these books are supplementary to the DVD or CD (or both) which comprises the course. This type of piano books are new in the history of the world, because obviously DVDs and CDs haven't existed all that long. This type of course puts it all together, so in addition to reading a book, you can hear the instruction and see it being demonstrated on your own TV or computer screen.

To locate this type of piano book just type in a search query such as "piano lessons on DVD" or "piano instruction on DVD" or a similar phrase. There are many such courses now available through the internet, and more being born every day.

For more info on helpful piano books, please go to "Piano Books: The Top Piano Books That Can Make You a Much Better Piano Player!" In addition, a series of 101 free email lessons on piano chords is available at "Exciting Piano Chords & Sizzling Chord Progressions!"

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Fender 65 Mustang

2007-03-08T18:47:00.001+11:00

By Gareth Owen

Fender is one of the leading musical companies and has a dedicated experience in making musical instruments. Clarence Leonidas Fender founded this organization in 1946. It has gained a worldwide recognition throughout the years in making the musical instruments. One can also say that Fender is the most reputable corporate to create the best guitars in the world. Currently, their headquarters is located in Scottsdale, Arizona, with their manufacturing amenities located throughout the world.

Fender has produced a great line of guitars through the times and among them is the ’65 Mustang. The Fender ’65 Mustang is an electric guitar and was originally introduced in 1964 as a remodel of the Fender’s student models, which included Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic. The Fender ’65 Mustang was made until 1982 and then was reissued again in the 1990.

The offset waist of the Fender ’65 Mustang is evocative of the Jazzmaster, but apart from that, it closely follows the style of the Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic. When Mustang was released, it got a huge recognition and on the basis of that the two models, Musicmaster and the Duo-Sonic were remodeled and they were named Musicmaster II and Duo-Sonic II.

The ’65 Mustang, Musicmaster II and Duo-Sonic II had 21 fret 22.5-inch neck or 3/4 scale neck or another adjustment of a 22 fret 24-inch neck, but the most popular one was the 24-inch neck. The 24-inch neck is considered perfect for people who have small hands and it makes it ideal for them to have an excellent control and stability as well as it also augments the capability to use the tremolo arm for upbends.

This guitar had been customized for a great legend, Kurt Cobain, who used this short scale with an exclusive and extremely direct tremolo arm to give his best performances ever. This guitar has undergone customizations and upgrades to offer the best results.

There was also another brand that was introduced known as the Fender Mustang Bass in 1964. The design of this guitar was made with a similar offset body design to the ’65 Mustang guitar and along with it a short 30-inch scale was used. Other guitars that had the look of Mustang Bass body and neck included Fender Musicmaster Bass and Fender Bronco Bass.

The Fender ’65 Mustang guitar has two-angled single coil pickups and each has a neighboring on-off-on switch along with a master tone and a volume control. Interestingly enough, the ’65 Mustang does not have a pickup selector or a circuit selector switch but just has the two pickup switches that allow the pickups to be used individually or in parallel. The phase of the selected pickup is reversed by the second on position, which permits the pickups to be in either in or out phase when used in parallel. This is a new feature introduced than the one created in 1964.

This made a remarkable effect in noise reduction as when both the pickups were floating with respect to ground and this made it probable to change the wiring by placing the pickups in series either in or out phase. This switching can be replaced by a conventional pickup change switch that is being provided with the Duo-Sonic, which only requires slight modification in the pickguard and frees the two eight-terminal pickup switches for different uses.

Another very interesting feature introduced in the Mustang was the Fender Dynamic Vibrato tailpiece, which along with the floating bridge constitutes the Mustang Trem or Stang Trem. This concept is taken from the tremolo developed for the Jazzmaster, whereas on the Mustang, the saddles consist of only a single string slot, whereas on the other Fender guitars there are multiple slots that allow limited modification of string spacing.

Last but not the least, the great musicians who have played on Mustang are Kurt Cobain, Mark Arm, Billy Corgan, Adrian Belew, Graham Coxon and a lot of other names who are the legends and have made a huge contribution in the world of music.

For further information on a vast range of Electric guitars and other musical instruments please visit http://www.guitarampkeyboard.com

Art Competition Entries – Taking a Photo of Your Artwork with a Digital Camera

2007-03-08T18:45:00.000+11:00

By Megan McDonald

Traditionally slides have been a requirement for entering art competitions; however, more and more organisers are now accepting digital entries. Whether you email the digital image as an attachment, burn it onto a CD or print your image of the artwork depends on your skills to do this and the terms and conditions of the art competition.

The best way to get a great digital image of your painting/sculpture or artwork is to take it outside on an overcast day making sure there are no shadows on it. Fill the frame of your viewfinder of your digital camera with your painting taking care that you have lined it up square on. Don’t shoot looking up, down or at an angle because the photograph will not end up square. Have your camera set on the highest resolution possible.

Delete photos that don’t turn out and keep on taking photos of the painting/artwork until you get one you are happy with. You will need to copy the files from your digital camera onto your computer. Refer to your Digital Cameras manual if you are having problems.

Have a go and experiment with the editing your photos with the software that comes with your digital camera or with your PC. Images can be cropped and color adjusted if necessary. If you are not satisfied learn more about software such as Adobe Photoshop to edit your digital files, borrow books from the library, get on the internet or enroll into community courses.

Make sure you save the image in the correct format and size – read the conditions for the art competition you are entering. Most organisers will accept the format “Jpeg” or “Tiff” and will often have a labeling convention that needs to be followed with your name and the title of your artwork. When you burn the image on the CD include any notes or additional information in a word document at the same time. Label the CD clearly with your name, title of work and address and phone number. If you want to you could print a customized label for your CD and include the image you are entering in the art competition.

Allow plenty of time to organize yourself so that you have your photo of your entry ready to go well before the closing date of the art competition. If you leave it to the day before guaranteed this will be when you run into computer problems, loose power, or have unexpected visitors!

Megan McDonald is an Australian artist who loves entering Art competitions.

Keep track of closing dates and find all the information you need for art competitions on Australian Artist Opportunities.

This unique website has become a popular resource for artists in Australia

Getting Truthful Information Before Buying A Digital Camera

2007-03-08T18:44:00.000+11:00

By Simon Wu

Digital photography is a fun hobby and can be quite addicting. Go to a social event or on a trip and almost everyone is clicking away with a digital camera. So many cameras, so many models, how do you get some information before buying?

There are two things you have take into consideration when shopping for a digital camera and you need to go back to the days of traditional photography for the first--some companies have made good names for themselves by manufacturing quality cameras. They are not about to tarnish their reputation by making poor quality digital cameras especially now that the transition from film cameras to digital has taken over.

Secondly, there are some companies who made their reputation by manufacturing other electronic products like stereos or televisions also throwing their hat into the digital photography arena. This is where you may want to think twice. Just because these particular companies made great audio or television products does not necessarily mean they have the knowhow and science in the field of photography.

With these in mind, make a list of about three or four photography companies you would consider buying your digital camera from. Then go to each company's official website and get as much information as you can about the digital cameras they offer. A camera that shoots at least 4 megapixels is a good starting point for beginners. Other features to consider are optical zoom, size of LCD screen, timer, and flash. Make sure you jot down all the model numbers too.

Now that you have a list of models and features you are interested in, this is where your shopping becomes more challenging and a bit time consuming. Go to your favorite search engine and look up digital camera reviews. Naturally you will be bombarded with a plethora of sites offering reviews but you do not have to be particular, click on any of the links presented to you.

Once you get to the review site's page, there is a possibility some of the models you took note of from the manufacturers' websites are already in the review site's navigation menu. The logic is that manufacturers will hawk their latest models and the review sites will, in their attempt to satisfy their visitors, have reviews available on the newest models already.

A good review site should offer the following information on each camera model: 1) all the features available; 2) the pro's and con's of each feature; 3) the price; 4) information about the battery and other accessories that are included; 5) comparisons with other brands of the same level; 6) reviews posted by people who bought that particular model; and very likely 7) tests they carried out on the model. Some may even post pictures of shots they took with the model being reviewed and show what happens when such a feature is turned on or off and so on.

So do a search for the models you are interested in at the review site. If their reviews include all or a majority of the information listed above, you are on the right track. Try to soak in as much information as you can. If you notice a degree of impartiality (in that they do not tend to favor a particular brand), then you can be assured of pretty accurate information. The sites that have a lot of press releases from manufacturers are the ones you want to avoid. Home shopping channels are also a bad source when trying to obtain impartial reviews.

Without a doubt, the first steps are always the hardest and buying the first digital camera is no exception. With so many brands, models and features, a first-timer can easily get confused and wind up with a camera that is actually unsatisfactory. The good news is that truthful information is easily available albeit just a little time consuming to gather. The smart shopper knows that going the extra mile in getting the right information will help avoid having to deal with customer service or issues that will take away from an otherwise enjoyable experience.

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Digital photography is indeed a fun-filled hobby regardless of your skill level. To read articles and get more information from fellow hobbyists, please visit the author's digital photography website.

Tips For Finding The Best Prices For Digital Cameras

2007-03-08T18:38:00.000+11:00

By Bowe Packer

With so many different types of digital cameras available to purchase these days, it can be difficult for anyone to make a decision. This mental confusion can increase when confronted with the ranks upon ranks of different camera models and brands which are available. To help work out this quandary you should try and do a comparison on what types of features are available for the best prices digital camera brands can offer.

The camera's that are offered these days have an abundance of features. Some that many of us don't need and will not use. So first take some time to jot down what it is that you would like your camera to do. This way you will be prepared to find what you are looking for. Trust me, you could spend a lot of time looking at all the available camera's that the local retail shop will have.

These different price ranges vary, because each of these digital cameras are jammed with features which are said to make life easier for the average photographer. For this rationality when you are looking at the best prices digital camera models have, you should ask for assistance to explain the different features that are found with the digital camera that you are looking at.

Some of the many questions you might want to ask yourself are: Will I want to upload these pictures to my pc? How often will I use the camera - do I need extra storage for the pictures (memory)? Will I be creating slide shows with the picture? These are just a few questions to get you going.

Some of the digital cameras combine camcorder features with that of a high speed digital camera. Other digital cameras will be improvements on earlier versions and have more capabilities for the users.

You can find the best prices digital camera brands like Canon and Nikon have to offer, from the Web consumer price reviews. These reviews will let you know the price range that was found for the different digital cameras. You will also be given information that will help you decide if you want to purchase this digital camera.

Another way to look for what the best prices digital camera brands have to offer is to look through the experts reviews. Through these you can find out what the real prices are for the different digital cameras, and you can also see if you're getting economic value for the money.

Besides reviews you can also do some research yourself. Go out on the internet and search for information that will give you facts and features of camera's. Remember, make a list of the things you want in a camera and the price range that you will be willing to spend. This step alone will save you a lot of grief in the long run.

And with the help of the internet you can also find retail stores where you can get great deals for your digital cameras. You should be able to hunt out the best prices digital camera brands and models are being sold for, at these establishments. Just watch for the bait and switch tactics that many of these stores perform.

Comparison shopping will empower you with the knowledge needed to get the camera that is right for you. You will also have a piece of mind that you purchased a digital camera that will handle all your needs.

Bowe has written dozens of articles for over 40 different websites including his Digital Photography site. His site is dedicated to providing the consumer with free valuable information. Visit his Digital Photography site and learn about digital cameras for free.

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How To Sell Your Photos - Everything You Need To Know

2007-03-08T18:37:00.000+11:00

By Scott Salter

The explosive growth of the Internet has spawned many new markets. One such market is the digital photo market. The growth of online stock photography sites (also known as microstock photography sites) where photographers can submit their digital photos so that others may view and download them for a fee, has created an unprecedented demand for digital photographs.

This of course has created a wonderful opportunity for amateur photographers to sell their digital photos in a market that was previously only open to professionals.

The opportunity immediately throws up two questions: who do I go about selling my digital photos and what types of images do people buy. This article will answer the first question.

When it comes to selling your photos there is only one basic law that has to be obeyed: Find out where your clients are currently buying their photos and make yourself visible there!

Two of the most immediate avenues available to you are:

1. To sell your digital photos are to sell directly to a stock image warehouse or list your photos with them for public sale and have royalties paid to you on a per sale basis and
2. Use eBay or other auction methods

Both of these are in effect large market places that buyers looking for digital images already swarm to. You simply need to be one of the sellers presenting your wares at the market place.

Auction sites such as eBay host a multitude of photographs that are for sale. Go there and see what types of images are selling and this will give you a good indicator as to what types of shots you should be taking. Certainly the best selling images on eBay are antique shots These are not necessarily easy to create but you will find that unique celebrity shots, unique photos of sporting events, nature shots and weird photos are all hot sellers on eBay

Other approaches you can take – although a little more specialised are to:

3. Sell to clients or the public directly on a contract basis called an assignment and
4. Sell unsolicited shots to magazines and other publishers

There is also the opportunity to sell your images yourself either online using software designed specifically for the task or by creating your own custom site and html code to protect your images.

It is important to note that you can really carve out a solid niche for yourself by selling photos in areas that other photographers shy away from because they don’t consider the work to be artistic enough.

Some examples of people who are willing to pay to have simple click and shoot shots taken may include:

· Real Estate Agencies
· Insurance Firms
· Car Lots
· Auction Sites
· Government and Police Agencies
· Individual with items to sell online
· Website designers
· Travel Agents

Most of the images required by these types of organisations are quite basic (real point and click stuff) and are therefore ideally suited to the beginner photographer.

Scott Benson is a freelance photographer who in recent years has had significant success in selling photos online. To learn more about how to sell your photos go to http://www.money-for-photos.com

Motivated Sellers - Who Are They and How Do You Find Them?

2007-03-04T11:36:00.002+11:00

By Adrian Loepp

Motivated sellers are the single most important ingredient needed to become a successful real estate investor. You can take every real estate investment course available today and become a master of creative real estate investing, but you will be a starving expert if you do not have any people to apply your knowledge too. I advise students on a regular basis to spend their first year in real estate learning how to locate motivated sellers. Then once they know how to find this valuable commodity, then they should learn techniques to buy and sell real estate. Imagine buying all the equipment needed to drill an oil well but never learning how to determine where to drill? It can be a costly and frustrating experience. So let me give you some tips on whom is likely to be a motivated seller and how to locate them. Here is my top three.

Probable the number one reason a person needs to sell their home quickly at a discounted price is because of a divorce. Mortgage payments that were easily manageable with two incomes suddenly become a real burden when one of the incomes disappears. With divorce rates nearing the 50% level, this creates many motivated sellers on a regular basis. Some people may see buying a property from a divorce situation as preying on the weak and needy. I see it as just the opposite. Divorce is also the number one reason for a foreclosure. These people desperately need to sell their house and if you don’t make yourself available to help them sell their house, they end up losing their house and their credit in a foreclosure proceeding. You are providing a valuable service to them and a good income for your family by working with motivated sellers caused by divorce proceedings. Making contacts with good divorce attorney’s can generate quality leads for you on a regular basis.

Another situation that creates motivated sellers is a loss of job or a job transfer. A person may have no problems making a mortgage payment at their present income, and then suddenly they get laid off, downsized or relocated and now they are making substantially less income then they are accustomed to. This creates a tremendous burden on the home owner and quite often leads to a motivated seller scenario. They have to sell their house before they transfer or if they stay, they cannot afford their mortgage at their new income level so they need to sell quickly or risk going into foreclosure. This is a very common problem that you can profit from if you pay attention to the local job conditions in your city or town and keep up with layoff notices and job announcements in the local paper and on local television. If you are watching the news tonight and hear that the local potato chip plant is shutting down in your city, it is time for you to spring into action. I have personally gone down to a place of business like this and put flyers on the windshields of the cars that describe my abilities to assist them if they need to sell their house quickly. If this sounds too aggressive to you, then you must find another way of contacting the workers at the plant. An ad in the local paper or penny saver that reads “Attention Recent Nalley’s Workers” will get their attention. Also try to place ads on the local unemployment office website or bulletin board. A fair share of the laid off workers will be using those services. Remember they need your help! You have a service that will benefit them. Don’t be afraid to tell people that you can help them with their property.

Here is a tip that I will give you that is so powerful, if you develop it and work on it, it will deliver you endless amounts of quality leads. There is one person that you see on a regular basis in your area that knows every person that is behind on their bills, they know who is in foreclosure and they know who is moving before anybody else. This person carries a wealth of information that few other people know about. Who is this person that can line your pockets with cash? Your mailman! Think about this. Your mailman delivers all important letters and documents to every house in a neighborhood. If a person is behind on their utility bills, the mailman delivers the disconnect notice. If they are behind on their mortgage, the mailman delivers all the warning letters from the lender including the Notice of Default. If they are thinking of moving, they will ask the mailman for a change of address card. If the house has been abandoned, the mailman will know this and discontinue mail delivery to this property. As you can see, your mailman is plugged in better then any other person when it comes to potential motivated sellers. Make friends with them; ask them if they know about any potential deals. Do not ask about any personal information regarding the seller because this would be unethical. But you could ask them if they know of any persons on their route that might be in a position of needing to sell their house quickly. Treat them right and they can give you a world of valuable information. I was a mailman for 10 years and I can tell you for a fact that I knew who every motivated seller was in my area well before anybody else did. It’s the kind of information that can make you rich.

Motivated sellers are everywhere you go. Learning where to look for them will take your real estate investing to the next level.

Adrian has many years as a real estate educator, investor, and personal financial consultant. He has personally purchased over 50 single family houses in the past 5 years using various methods of creative real estate investing.. He shares his invaluable experience and techniques to those looking for guidance in their real estate and personal financial activities. He is currently a Certified Real Estate Auctioneer selling properties in the Tacoma/Seattle area of Washington State. For more information visit his websites at http://www.auctionsnorthwest.com

http://www.birddogsonline.com

http://www.homehelpersnw.com

Livingston County Real Estate MI: Need To Sell Your Home Or Want To Buy One Even With Bumpy Credit?

2007-03-04T11:36:00.001+11:00

You may be looking at Livingston County real estate MI lofts, condos, townhouses or other single family homes and thinking that you are just dreaming. But, homeownership is a very real possibility, even if you have past credit issues. Or, you may be trying to sell Livingston County real estate Michigan in a slow market with little luck. As experienced real estate investors we have unique programs that can help you. We do all the work. You reap the benefits.

Prices vary on Livingston County real estate. Michigan home prices, in general, vary a great deal. Economic issues have affected values throughout the state, more in some areas, less in others. If you live in Michigan and you have problem credit, you are not alone.

The same economic issues that have affected property values have affected the credit ratings of many people. Lay-offs and factory closings left many people unemployed for a time. In some cases, it was necessary to relocate or reeducate. And, whether a paycheck is coming in or not, the bills do not stop. If you are reading this and you have been turned down for traditional bank financing, because of past credit issues, you should know that there is a group of real estate investors in Michigan willing and able to help.

Maybe you are on the other side of the Livingston county real estate MI equation. Maybe you are the frustrated seller, tired of waiting for a buyer to come along and afraid of what may happen if you cannot sell soon. We have seen your ads. You are the “motivated seller”, the “must sell now” person. You are hoping that your property will not become one of the numerous foreclosures in the area.

If you want to quickly sell Livingston County real estate Michigan real estate investors, like us, can help.

Today Livingston county real estate Michigan is primarily a “bedroom community”. Commuters can travel to Detroit, Flint, Ann Arbor and Lansing in an hour or less. It is mostly Livingston’s central location that attracts new residents, but new growth in the service and industrial economic sectors is also growing the population.

Major employers in the county include Pepsico, Citizens Insurance and Ogihara Industries. For the last ten years, Livingston has been the fastest growing county in the state.

The median income for a family is $75,284, one of the highest for any county in the United States. But, even people with a good income can have bad credit. If a person can afford to rent, he or she can usually afford to own, but all that most lenders look at is the credit score, a number. Even people who have worked hard to pay off their debts may still find that their credit score is not high enough to qualify for even a high interest loan, much less the better ones.

A good strategy for buyers and sellers of Livingston County real estate (and Michigan real estate in general) is a lease option agreement.

Sometimes called “rent-to-own”, a lease option is a simple understanding drawn up between the potential buyer and the owner.

The potential buyer agrees to lease the home for a time with an option to buy it. The option term is usually a year, but terms can vary, and a portion of the rent he or she has paid goes towards the eventual purchase of the home....creating a feeling of true home ownership.

If you have problem credit, but have a job, a small down payment and the desire, you can own your own home. If you need to quickly sell Livingston county real estate MI real estate investors can help.

In short, it doesn't matter if you are a home seller or a person who wants to buy a home with bruised credit, we will do the work of making it happen for you.

Visit us to find out about our unique and effective programs.

Dan Ho is a real estate investor in Michigan. Visit Livingston county real estate MI to see how we can help you if you are a seller or want to buy a home, even with bruised credit.

http://www.buy-sell-michigan-real-estate.com is the definitive resource online for buyers and sellers of Michigan homes.

Chelsea MI Real Estate: Need to Sell Your Home Or Want To Buy One?

2007-03-04T11:34:00.002+11:00

By Dan Ho

Chelsea, MI real estate listings have much to offer potential homeowners. Located east of Battle Creek and west of Ann Arbor and Detroit, there are a number of homes in the area for less than $150,000. “Affordable” is a word that you will often see in advertisements.

Until recently, Chelsea was not a city, but a village under the jurisdiction of Lima and Sylvan townships. In March of 2004, residents voted to change their municipal status from “village” to “city. It is a small city, when compared to most other Michigan cities. With a population at the last census approaching only 4400. Nearby Ann Arbor's population is more than three times that of Chelsea.

Chelsea Community Hospital is a major employer, but most residents are commuting to work in a nearby city. Choosing to live where the population is less dense, but work where there are more opportunities.

Just one example of the Chelsea, MI real estate listings is a home on Clear Lake Shores, 20 minutes from Ann Arbor and priced at $1.2 million. On the other hand, one can also find new condos and older farm and ranch style homes in the $125,000 range.

The struggling Michigan economy is causing some frustration for people trying to sell their homes. Average closing prices are stable throughout much of the country, but homeowners in Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Detroit and many Michigan cities have been forced to reduce the prices on their homes by as much as 6%, in order to sell them quickly.

Most homes stay in the Chelsea, MI real estate listings for months on end before a sale is finalized. As such, many people are moving away from real estate agents and selling their homes themselves. They are also doing this to save on the large 6% commission that is eaten up by the real estate agent.

Some strategies to consider that are working well in Michigan right now:

Frustrated sellers who are getting creative are having a great deal of success selling their home on a rent to own basis.

Rent to own is also called a lease option. These agreements appeal to many people who have the money to make the mortgage payments, but for various reasons are unable or not interested in an “outright buy”. Typical reasons include the buyer has bruised credit, or doesn't have a large enough down payment saved, and, because of such factors, doesn't qualify for traditional bank financing.

For buyers, this is the right time to invest in Michigan's future. The cities are consistently working to attract new industry and financial experts expect to see the economy recover and grow over the next several years. This could mean that the property you buy today for less than $150K will be worth quite a bit more in three or four years time, maybe less.

In other areas of the country, people have seen their property values double and triple in only a few years. Real estate is always a good investment in the long run.

Why choose a lease option agreement? For the seller, it means that they can get their property out of the Chelsea, MI real estate listings and move on, if that is what they need to do.

People who might not be able to qualify for a good mortgage rate and are willing to work to improve their credit over the term of the lease can still take advantage of today's low prices, by locking in the price in the lease option agreement.

People who are saving for a down payment like the idea that a portion of their rent will go towards the eventual purchase of the home. People who are not sure if they are ready to buy like the idea of having the “option”.

All of this means to the seller that more people are looking at the property, more people looking means better chances of selling.

When both parties are in agreement, the final purchase can be conducted without a real estate agent, meaning no commission and more money in the sellers pocket. Potential buyers can take the time to find their own financing, meaning no commission to a mortgage broker. There are many ways to save money on real estate and to make more money selling real estate. A lease option agreement can help.

Right now there are 21 homes in foreclosure or pre-foreclosure status in Chelsea. Losing a home to foreclosure means that the owner loses every penny he or she has invested, not to mention the time spent, the damage to the credit rating and the difficulty finding another home. Sellers need to consider all of their options to avoid foreclosure.

It is almost a surety that there is a buyer out there for every piece of Chelsea, MI real estate, sometimes it is just a matter of finding them. Offering a lease option agreement can make the difference.

Experienced real estate investors in Michigan who do a lot of lease option deals can assist putting the deals together. Such investors can help you whether you need to sell your home, or you want to buy one.

Dan Ho is a real estate investor in Michigan. Visit chelsea MI real estate for more great free information on the advantages of selling your home on lease option or buying a rent to own home.

http://www.buy-sell-michigan-real-estate.com is the definitive resource online for motivated sellers and buyers of Michigan homes.

Houses For Sale By Owner - Negotiating Tips

2007-03-04T11:34:00.001+11:00

By Steven Gillman

Houses for sale by owner, also known as "FSBOs," are a unique case in real estate investment. Buying from an uninformed seller who thought he knew enough to handle everything by himself can be frustrating. It can also be very profitable if you are prepared.

Why do people try to sell a house on their own? Only one primary reason comes to mind: To save the sales commission. Of course they usually underestimate the cost and complexity of going it alone. They end up frustrated and tired of the process, ready to drop the price and be done with it. Help them solve their problems, and your reward can be a good price on a good investment. Keep the following in mind:

1. An owner isn't an agent. Don't ask possibly offensive questions. Don't make negative comments about the house. Whether you like it or not, the truth is that it's difficult to get a good deal if the seller doesn't like you.

2. Houses for sale by owner have often been on the market a long time. The seller is usually tired of the process, and wants it to be done. In other words, you'll get a better price if you are willing to close quickly and easily.

3. FSBO sellers usually think they're being smart. Encourage that belief and they'll be more open to your offer. When they have a good idea, tell them so. It is not unethical to make people feel good about themselves when negotiating.

4. They usually don't have a plan for where to close, where to buy a title policy, where to keep a good faith deposit, etc. Be ready with simple solutions to all these problems. Walk them through the process while letting them feel in control, and you'll both be happier.

5. They have often spent more than they anticipated. Advertising and other costs have already eaten into their imagined extra FSBO profit. Be generous in negotiating any pre-close expenses - as long as you get your price and/or terms.

6. Pass over problems and return to them later. Once a seller has invested more time in a negotiation, he'll be more inclined to give you what you want.

Professionals will tell you that most houses "for sale by owner" net less than those sold by an agent. It's too late for the seller to recover his money and time spent, however, so he usually just wants to get the thing sold as easily and quickly as possible. Help him with that, and you can get a good real estate investment at a good price.

Steve Gillman has invested real estate for years. To learn more, and to see a photo of a beautiful house he and his wife bought for $17,500, visit http://www.HousesUnderFiftyThousand.com

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Buy and sell houses at Yipeyay.Com

To Sell More, Define Your Niche

2007-03-04T11:31:00.000+11:00

By Wendy Maynard

You may think marketing your business to the widest possible pool – trying to be all things to all people – is your best chance to succeed. Unfortunately, this approach is limiting your ability to make money and attract customers.

Positioning yourself in a niche is a powerful approach to marketing. It is a strategic process to match your expertise and passions – and it sets you apart. It helps distinguish your company in the minds of your target audience.

Remember, you are competing with a lot of noise in the market to get your potential customers’ attention – and their business. If you can stand out with a unique benefit (such as your niche specialization), you are a lot more likely to get noticed because you are distinct from your competition.

By choosing a precise niche, your prospects and customers understand precisely what it is that you offer. Your services are clear and precise. The narrower your niche, the easier it is for clients, prospects, and referrers to remember what you do. Additionally, a niche makes it much simpler to develop your marketing program. You know exactly where to focus your efforts and what your message will be.

Here are some of the specific ways defining a niche will help your marketing:

* You will know exactly where to advertise.

* You can optimize your website so that your niche market can easily find you.

* You can create advertising and promotions that appeal specifically to your target market.

* You’ll know exactly what your target audience views as challenges, so you’ll be able to more easily develop products and services to solve these problems.

* You can learn everything about your target audience – allowing you to position yourself as the expert in your industry.

* You’ll know how to network with your target audience because you will know the conferences, trade shows, and/or seminars they attend.

You can develop your niche based on a number of factors. It can be determined by the type of customer you want to work with, the type of services you provide, the way in which you provide your services, your style or approach, geography, or your network of influence. It can also be a combination of these things.

One way to begin to drill down to your niche is to evaluate your current customers. What group are you serving right now? What do they find unique and valuable about your company? If you don’t know – ask them. It is important to understand your services from the customers’ point of view.

As you examine your current customer base, you may be surprised to find you have already carved out a niche. If you haven’t, choose an area of focus in which you are passionate and have some knowledge. After all, if you don’t enjoy working with your customers, why bother? It also makes it easier if you pick a niche you already know well or one that will be fun for you to research.

Once you define your niche and position your company as an expert, there really is no limit to your business growth (and the amount you can charge for your expertise).

Wendy Maynard, your friendly Marketing Maven, publishes REMARKABLE MARKETING, a free weekly ezine for entrepreneurs, business owners, and freelancers. If you're ready to skyrocket your sales, easily attract customers, and make more money, sign up for her FREE ezine and marketing report now at http://www.gomarketingmaven.com

Internet - Online Resource For Buying Or Purchasing Autos

2007-03-04T11:27:00.000+11:00

By Rehan Moin

Posting advertisements for autos including used cars, new cars, motorcycles, bikes, jeeps, boats or bicycles in online classifieds will draw an instant and targeted audience towards the classified ad than posting in newspaper classifieds or any other print media.

A popular internet research company mentioned that most of the online classifieds are browsed for autos advertisements. With the increase in number of internet users, the auto classified ads owner can be assured of traffic towards the ad instantaneously, but the auto classified ads should be properly designed for the buyer to understand what the ad seller is conveying. Whether buying new autos or selling used autos, posting auto advertisements in local free classifieds is advisable than posting in other classifieds medium like newspapers or magazines.

For buying new autos, the ads should mention necessary details on auto features like model, color, mileage, warranty of engine including estimated budget for purchasing. There is a possibility that local auto dealers will browse these ads, if the price estimated by the ad owner matches their cost, they will contact the ad owner immediately. The persons, who want to purchase new autos but cannot afford the huge price tag, can use the local classified ads to search for ads posted by persons selling their used autos which are in good condition.

For selling used autos, the advertisements should mention the details like the model, kilometers travelled, warranty of used engine, price and the reason for selling them. There is a high probability that these ads will be reviewed by local auto dealers for used autos or persons looking for purchasing used autos. The ad owner for used autos will be assured of their selling out in quick time by posting in online classifieds.

Placing auto advertisements in free classifieds can be economical than placing them in paid classifieds or print media. The ad owner should just make sure that the ad viewer should be impressed with the ad details by using the interactive features in free classifieds like graphics or videos.

The author, search engine optimizer for the website, www.desiclassifieds.com, with well placed categories like Automobiles, Real estate, buy and sell online, business opportunities, etc., assures that there will be instant exposure to auto classified ads.

Truck Trader - Using Online Classifieds to Buy or Sell a Used Truck

2007-03-04T11:25:00.001+11:00

By Eriani Doyel

Are you thinking of buying or selling a used truck through classifieds like Truck Trader magazine? Why do people choose to buy a truck through classifieds such as the Truck Trader magazine rather than a dealership? What are some suggestions to make the buying and selling experience safer for both parties? How can the internet make the experience with truck trader and classifieds easier?

People buy and sell used trucks through publications and online classifieds like a truck trader because they can save money. Sellers offer lower prices than most dealerships because they could not get even that much for the truck as a trade in. Buyers are happy to pay the lower prices they get in a magazine such as Truck Trader, and are willing to put forth the effort to get their own financing and get the car checked at a mechanic because of they money they can save.

When you buy a truck through classifieds like Truck Trader, you need to be very cautious to make sure that not only is the truck the “great deal” that you think it is, but also that you are treated fairly by the seller. After you have decided what kind of truck you would like to buy, you will need to Blue Book it to get a good idea of what a fair price is. Once you find a truck in Truck Trader that you are interested in buying, you should make sure that the seller will allow you to take the car to a mechanic of your choice to get it checked out and check it out on CARFAX as well to see if it has been in any accidents. You should offer a cash down payment to provide the seller with “earnest money.” Financing can be done through your bank, credit union, or an online loan company.

Truck Trader and other classified magazines are also good for sellers. You can advertise your used truck to a wide audience. Offer a fair price that you can find in a Blue Book and write an ad that emphasizes the positives such as low miles. Before any potential buyer takes the car for a test drive, positively ID them, and you can even ask for something as collateral such as a down payment if they want to take it to a mechanic.

The internet makes it easy for you to list your used truck if you are a seller, and it makes it easy to find and narrow down your choices if you are a buyer. You will find other resources such as financing, Blue Book info, and tips for both buyers and sellers as well.

Eriani Doyel writes articles about Trucks. If you would like more information about a truck trader visit daytruck.com

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Buy and sell trucks at Yipeyay.Com

The Benefits of Classified Ads Web Sites

2007-03-04T11:24:00.001+11:00

By Groshan Fabiola

The modern world is in a continuous movement and people everywhere are looking for quick, safe means of accessing accurate information. Prompt information is vital for people who want to keep the pace with a constantly evolving society, and many people are turning to the Internet for help in their quest for knowledge.

The Internet is not only the best means to quickly access information; it also has the merit of bringing people all over the world together, allowing them to interact in a safe, exciting environment. Classified ads web sites promote effective means of expressing ideas and exchanging information, by offering subscribes the opportunity to post their ads on a web page, or to access the ads posted by others. Classified ads web sites provide accurate information, well-structured in various categories: job classifieds, homes classifieds, events classifieds and many more! Classified ads are easy to access and they provide all kinds of important information.

Good, reliable classified ads web sites usually charge no fee for posting or viewing classified ads. All you have to do is subscribe and you will be able to interact with people locally, and why not, from other areas of the world!

Job classifieds are a great means of finding the job you are looking for. Finding the most suitable job for you with the help of a reliable classified ads web site can be very rewarding! Also, by posting a job classified ad yourself, you will quickly receive feed-back from people who are interested in your offered services. Many people can find their lifetime careers through the means of job classifieds, while employers are able to find well-trained collaborators or employees for their business.

Homes classifieds offer complete information regarding real estates. Whether you are buying, renting or selling a house, homes classifieds are perfect for you! If you are interested in buying a house, classified ads web sites offer you the opportunity to choose among hundreds, maybe thousands of postings! If you wish to sell a house, professional classified ads web sites can provide good exposure to your announcement.

Whether you wish to find new events in your local area or you wish to inform other people about the latest events, classified ads web sites are the best means to do it! Events classifieds offer people valuable information about concerts, art exhibitions, book previews, movie openings, parties and many more!

Classified ads web sites are a valuable source of information and they also enable people to interact and achieve their goals. Find a reliable, professional classified ads web site and you will definitely find what you are looking for!

We are trying to provide you full information about this subject, so if you want to find the Italian version of Trova lavoro su Bakeca, Cerca casa su Bakeca or Eventi e feste su Bakeca please click these links.

Can You Find Used Tanning Beds In The Classifieds?

2007-03-04T11:23:00.002+11:00

By Tim Gorman

Can you find used tanning beds in the classifieds? Yes and finding used tanning beds in the classifieds may be a great idea.

If you are looking for used tanning beds in the classifieds you will pay less than if you want to buy a new bed. Use tanning beds in the classifieds are available immediately, no waiting for delivery.

People may be selling used tanning beds in the classifieds because they are moving. They may be selling used tanning beds in the classifieds because their tanning salon is going out of business. Some may be selling used tanning beds in the classifieds because they are unhappy with the beds.

Buyers beware if you are thinking of buying used tanning beds in the classifieds. You may be getting a really good deal and you may be getting a dud.

You will need to know something about tanning beds before you buy used tanning beds in the classified. Make sure you have the knowledge needed to make a wise choice.

Before you buy used tanning beds in the classifieds you will need to have the money up front. Most people selling used tanning beds in the classifieds will not take a check or credit card.

You may not have a warranty when you buy used tanning beds in the classifieds. Be sure to ask. Also make sure an owner’s manual comes with the purchase.

Be careful when you are buying used tanning beds in the classifieds. If you know what you are doing you may end up with a great deal!

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Tanning-Bed-Solutions.com. He provides more tanning bed information on tanning bed bulbs, tanning bed lotions and home tanning bed information that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Can Buyers Find Your Home?

2007-03-04T11:23:00.001+11:00

By Jesse Normand

Real estate Classifieds is one of the quickest and easiest ways for consumers to instantly expose their real estate. 47% of consumers searching for real estate found the home they bought from the Internet as compared to only 2% from print newspaper advertisement. If you are still using the news paper classifieds as confident marketing strategy you may want to rethink your strategy. Reports indicate that Internet Real Estate Ad Spending is predicted to raise from currently $2 billion to $3 billion by the year 2010. This may not come to you as a big surprise but will you have money invested in online ads for you business and clients?" Classifieds are booming because it's the perfect application for the Internet," said Jim Nail, senior analyst at Forrester Research. "If people are searching for something specific with hundreds of thousands of listings, it's hard to find what you want in a newspaper. The search functions on the Internet improve the chore."

Online classifieds is not a new idea but just a good idea (news paper classifieds) made better. Web search tools available at most classifieds sites prove to be invaluable in locating that perfect property. These tools range from Google Maps, property flyer creation, local area information (news, weather, and movie times), flash slide shows, seller contact forms, feature virtual tour, zip code radius searches and so on. You just can't do that with the black and white ads.

In short real estate classifieds are great marketing and/or search tool when used online for consumers and advertisers.

It's easier for buyers to find exactly what they're searching for:

• It's been proven easier to search & browse online;
• It's more effective to qualify interest when listings contain more descriptive information (e.g., more text, photos, virtual tours, etc.); and
• It's quicker to make contact to a broad pool of sellers via email.

For sellers, online classifieds are more convenient, cost effective and direct means of advertising:

• Ads can be purchased more cheaply and in many cases are free;
• It's easy to screen and accept or deny inbound inquiries via email;
• Online classifieds attract better prospects when they contain more descriptive information; and
• Advertisers can edit or delete a classified listing at any time without having Get started today and begin effectively marketing your real estate where it counts.

Jesse Normand specializes in real estate marketing and advertising. http://www.classifiedsrealtor.com/!

Meet Your Insurance Needs through the Classifieds

2007-03-04T11:22:00.001+11:00

By Elizabeth Newberry

For many of us, the classifieds are those few pages of our local newspaper that list apartments for rent, houses for sale, help wanted ads, and litters of kittens to give away. Some classifieds have huge, half-page ads taken out by car dealerships across the area, and most often you will find a local business or three advertising certain services.

However, the classifieds can help you do some shopping, too. You know, aside from finding your daughter a kitten for her birthday. Many, if not all, of your local insurance agencies, as well as independent insurance agents, have probably placed ads in the classifieds section of your newspaper advertising their services. This is helpful for those of you searching for some kind of insurance, whether it is homeowner’s, automobile, health, or life insurance. It is also helpful in reminding those of you who aren’t searching for insurance that you should be searching for insurance.

Classifieds are not just limited to newspapers, though. There are many online classifieds, too, aside from the classifieds found in the online version of your local newspaper, or even newspapers throughout your state. Your area may have a Web site or two that offers classifieds-type services. If so, you will most likely find advertisements for insurance agencies as well. You can even find online classifieds covering your region and state, as well as the entire country. Some of these classifieds are guaranteed to have a couple of advertisements placed by insurance agencies and insurance agents, and a few of them may even be of interest to you, depending on your particular insurance needs.

So, the next time you are in the market for insurance, whether it is homeowner’s, automobile, health, or life insurance, don’t limit your search to the couple of insurance agencies your family members, friends and co-workers use. Remember to check your classifieds, both print and online. You never know what you might find.

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