"Using Images in Your Salesletter: Three Tips Guaranteed

Debra Hamer

What is a synthetic gemstone? A synthetic gem is created in a laboratory under controlled conditions. The gem is grown from a natural gemstone "seed". By controlling the environment in which the gem is grown, impurities and inclusions can be avoided which occur in natural gemstones. The created stones have perfect color and clarity which is so highly desired. Most natural gemstones have imperfections due to uncontrolled growing conditions in nature. Synthetic stones will have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties of their natural counterparts without the imperfections.

A good analogy for synthetic gemstone creation is growing roses. Roses grown in a hot house where their growing environment is controlled will be closer to perfection than roses that are grown in your backyard. They're both roses, but the backyard rose will most likely be flawed or imperfect due to disease, insects, and other environmental impacts. Not so with the hot house rose because of the controlled conditions.

Don't confuse simulant gemstones with synthetic gemstones. Simulants can be made up of any substance, like glass. They are made to simulate a particular gemstone, but they do not have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties of the natural gemstone like the synthetic gemstone. Some examples of simulants are cubic zirconia, moissanite, and yttrium aluminum garnet which are diamond simulants.

The most popular gemstones that synthetics have been created for are emeralds, sapphires, rubies and alexandrites. I'm sure you have seen jewelry with synthetic stones, also known as "created" gemstones in your local retail jewelry store. They are easier to obtain and less costly than natural gemstones. Synthetics have made it more affordable for people to own nice jewelry and many prefer the flawless created stones compared to the natural stones. You can usually spot a "created" stone because it's just too perfect in color and clarity. A natural stone, especially in rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, which is perfect in color and clarity, is scarce and the cost is beyond most people's means.

Should you buy a synthetic gemstone or jewelry with created stones over the natural gemstone choices? I would recommend going with your own personal preference. If you want a piece of jewelry with a flawless, perfect gem, then go with the synthetic gemstone. Also, if cost is a deciding factor. As a collector/investor my preference would be for the natural gemstone. It's value and appreciation factor will be much greater, flawed or not.

It's interesting that there are some gemstones man has not been able to synthesize in a laboratory. One example is the garnet family of gems. They have not been able to unlock garnet's secrets to create it in a lab.

How do I know if the gemstone is natural, synthetic (created), or a simulant? If you can't tell by your own examination...ask! A reputable dealer or jeweler will be honest about the origins of the stone. If they don't know or won't say, then don't buy!

Another interesting fact about gemstones that is not common knowledge to the public is that the majority of gems on the market have been treated to create or enhance their color and clarity. There are many different treatments used today. Heat treatment is the most common and widely used. I have written another article specifically regarding gemstone treatments. You can go to Gemstone Treatments to read more on the subject.

As a gemstone collector/investor, as stated before, my preference is for natural gemstones, but as an adornment in jewelry a synthetic gemstone makes for a gorgeous ring, earrings or pendant at an affordable price.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Learn and read more about gemstones by purchasing Debra's E-book titled "A New Collector's Gemstone Guide" at http://www.profitfromhomebiz.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The protection of a diving wetsuit
Jakob Jelling

Wetsuits are meant to keep divers warm by giving them thermal protection. There are some important guidelines which a diver should learn regarding the wetsuit he might acquire and use. First of all, it is important to know that they are usually made from neoprene; most of the times open cell neoprene. Besides, when wetsuits have a coating added to the neoprene they are easier to be worn and taken off.

The practice of free diving and scuba diving imply the use of different kinds of wetsuits. While a 5 mm thick wetsuit would be ideal for keeping warm a free diver, a scuba diver would need a 7 mm thick wetsuit to achieve the same results. Besides, while most free diving wetsuits don't have a zipper, most scuba diving wetsuits do come with them.

If you are looking for an open cell neoprene wetsuit, it is important that you have into account the fact that they can be easily damaged. If, for example, you are going to use jewelry under your open cell neoprene wetsuit, this could easily damage it and open it, so you should be very careful with it or try to find another kind of wetsuit instead of it. If you have long finger nails you should be careful as well since you could damage it while putting it on or taking it off.

It is also important to have in mind that free diving wetsuits should fit the diver in order to work well and give him the proper thermal protection. If a free diving wetsuit is loose or too tight it would not give the protection it should and it could even become a problem since it could be an obstacle to the diver's movements.

There also are recommendations on how to maintain and store your wetsuit. In order to store it properly while you are not using it, you should hang your wetsuit up avoiding folding it since that could damage it. Besides this, you should make sure to wash the suit after using it and make sure to wash all salty water off from it.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.divepilot.com. Please visit his website to discover the world of diving!

Stylish Women of the Zodiac

Samantha Stevens

Aries
These bold, arrogant and confident creatures are not afraid to flash a little leg or boast a low-cut top. When it comes to fashion, female Rams are self-styled leaders who love flashy, glamorous and sexy clothes. They are also the first to parade around in the latest trends.
They are also perfectionists who are hesitant to debut a new outfit until it has been outfitted with all the right accessories. They love expensive designer clothes but their thrifty side will settle for a decent imitation of Prada or Gucci. Plush velvets and vivid silks in colors such as red, yellow and gold suit the female ram's conception of herself as "royalty."
At work, the Ariesian female likes to stand out in a crowed by adding a pair of high-heels or sexy stocking to an otherwise straight looking skit. They love the style of the forties and details such as piping, kick-pleats and rounded collars. They also adore pea coats and long wool coats paired with a pair of high heel leather boots.
This demanding fire sign loves the flash of rubies and diamonds and is fond of wearing watches that display two time zones, even if they are not jetsetters.
Taurus
Female bulls are homebodies so they don't tend to splurge their family budget on family. Their closet is often packed with clothing that reflects their love of practical activities such as gardening, cooking and home renovation. They are fond of inexpensive and utilitarian clothing such as khakis, jeans and sweatshirts and by easy-to-care for fabrics that can just are thrown in the wash. As they spend a lot of time outdoors, their closets are usually jammed with ski-jackets, pack-pats and work-boots.
Taurus Females dress more casually than most people at the office and are the type to wear the same thing to work every day. A cozy sweater worn over a ruffled blouse with a knee-length skirt is a typical outfit. As they tend to be heavier than most women in the Zodiac, they tend to wear a lot of "slimming black".
They have simple tastes in lingerie and consider a long white cotton nightgown to be just a sexy as any item bought from Victoria's secret. For more elegant affairs, bulls look best in empire style gowns that emphasize their busts and conceal their tummies.
Taureans tend to dislike wearing a lot of jewelery, as it gets lost or dirty, however one item loyal Bulls will never take off is their wedding ring.
Gemini
These smart, sexy and cerebral women change their mind about what they want to wear every day. Their closets are well stocked with the appropriate outfits for any occasion. This curious sign faithfully studies fashion magazines and is always up on the latest trends in fashion. For casual wear, they prefer clothes with subtle, yet unusual touches - velvet cuffs on shirt, an unexpected ruffle or a bit of antique lace on a collar.
Gemini females have a keen sense of style, and when they are in business mode, they prefer to dress up as the office "queens" complete with power suit, pearls and expensive watch. Their favorite colors are navy blue, pink, lavender, silver and gold.
They love to dance so they prefer loose fluid clothing in silks, cottons and satins that flow with them as they move. They also like cheap street chic of a red vinyl mini-skirt or the surprise offered by the wearing of a bright yellow sari to a garden party.
Turquoises, rubies, pearls and citrines are their favorite stones. These free spirits also like natural jewelry are not beyond tucking a few blossoms behind their ears.
Cancer
Cancer females dress according to their mood. They can be very insecure when it comes to their bodies and often buy outfits on impulse that are never seen outside the change-room doors. As they are so driven by their emotions, Cancer females are not the most practical of shoppers. Although they maintain a people-pleasing conservative exterior most of the time they secretly lust for risqu� lingerie, platform heels, plunging necklines and showers of chiffon and sequins. They also collect scores of designer shoes that they are too insecure to wear out in public,
These charming, but shy individuals like to play by the rules at work by wearing traditional suit with below the knee hemlines. They love the military works and prefer navy suits with gold buttons Many of the are secret fetishists who hide kinky costumes in their closets
Cancers are fond of loose comfortable casual wear and often hide their bodies behind overly large men's shirts and black tights. For fancy events, they tend to rely on that old stand-by such as the little black cocktail dress.
They love to collect costume jewelry and their ears, wrists and fingers will often boasts 'bling blings such as stacks of Indian bangles, large pearl rings, charm bracelets, and cubic zirconias.
Leo
This vain drama queens love to dress up for the purpose of being admired by all. They have exquisite and expensive tastes in clothing and lust after items created by Prada, Chanel, and Ungaro. Their desire to "not be a sheep" compels them to add a personal twist to an outfit to make it their own. It is a Lioness who dares to pair a diamond tiara with jeans and a T-shirt.
These unconventional, confident females often ignore dress codes and wear what they want to work. They spice up their power suits by shortening the hem or wearing fishnet stockings and high heels.
The sexy Leo often prefer mini-skirts to any kind of trousers. For more formal events they like to wear long flowing robes in colors such as of gold, silver red and orange that make them look like the resident goddesses. Their closets are often filled with designer sportswear, including the latest walking, golf and tennis shoes.
Being a very materialistic sign, a Tiger female considers diamonds to be a girl's best friend along with rubies, emeralds and sapphires set in sunny hunks of solid gold.

Virgo
Blessed with an excellent fashion sense, Virgos are adept at mixing individual pieces together to create a strong, attractive personal statement. Energetic Virgins tend to store their large wardrobe in perfectly organized closets that are full of classic items such as open-toed sling backs, patent leather kitten-heels, crisp white blouses, navy suits, black cocktail dresses, tennis skirts, khaki shorts, kilts, flowing gowns and well fitting jeans.
At work they prefer well-tailored, conservative suits in shades of silver, white, pink, grey or lavender Finicky Virgins would also never be caught dead with a missing button or a hole in their stocking. Although female Virgins are killer sharks when it comes to business, they like to soften the image of their power suits by adding delicate feminine touches such as a lace hankie, a flower or a chiffon scarf.
They also like to collect state of the art accessories such as tortoise shell clips for their hair, diamond earrings, pearl studs, black leather belts with distinctive buckles, silver conch belts, silver clutch purses, gold lame clutches and functional back-packs.
They consider displays of wealth to be tacky and tend to wear watches with thin gold straps, tiny chains and demure diamond tennis bracelets.
Libra
Venus rules sensual Libra natives, so they are very tactile. Their sense of touch has a lot to do with how they choose clothing, and they prefer silks and cottons to scratchy wools. Librans can be surprisingly finicky about clothing, and they are the first to visit a tailor if the cut of a suit or a dress is not quite right. This sign loves balance and beauty and believe that clothing should perfectly compliment the figure.
At work, power-dressing Librans will choose sleek, tailored suits in jewel-tones or slimming black. They are not much for frills or an excess of jewelery and prefer to sport gold hoops or simple pearl studs as earrings.
For relaxing, they prefer well-fitting casual clothing in their favorite colors, pink and black. Librans love Capri pants and similar items that are sexy as well as practical.
For an evening out, simplicity is the key to the Libran style. They either prefer tight clothing, such as the little black Lycra dress or they will dress in a theme that subtly reminds you of another era, such as the 1970s or the 1950s. Librans have a delicate sense of balance so they prefer flat heels to high heels. When it comes to looking fashionable, they definitely believe, like Jackie O, Katherine Hepburn and Audrey Hepburn that "less is more."
Scorpio
When it comes to style Scorpio women they are ruled by their moods. If they are depressed they are the sign voted most likely to dress head-toe in black to let others know their state of mind. However, despite the fact that their hearts often rule their heads, these females also believe that one should be poised at all time.
At the office they like to "dress to intimidate" in strong primary colors. Many of them will add a sexy touch to a conservative outfit, by unbuttoning a blouse to expose cleavage or a donning sexy high-heels.
Scorpio women live to socialize and their closets are stacked with scores of little black dresses, chiffon blouses, cashmere sweaters and sequined tops. They also love the sweeping drama of a velvet cape for formal occasions. Red and black leather is a favorite and many own stylish jackets; tight pants and long coats made from the finest bovines. As they are very sexual, they also like to dress provocatively, yet tastefully.
As the mystical matters entrance them they will often also adorn themselves with, healing gems and protective amulets such as ankhs, crucifixes and five-pointed stars.
Sagittarius
Fashion plays a role in the charming Archer's plan to always present a youthful, and carefree appearance. Female Archers pick items that make them feel sexy and comfortable. They prefer loose clothing to tightly tailored outfits and the hunter inside them is also fond of real and faux fur.
At the office the Sagittarian is likely to be dresses a in her favorite shades of brown, dark blue red and emerald green. As they are usually very busy, they prefer a fuzzy sweater with a shirtdress or a pantsuit that features many pockets so they have many places to stash their "stuff".
For casual wear, easy-going Archers prefer versatile cotton pieces in bright colors that are as sunny as their positive disposition. Many of them are also very eccentric and love to collect vintage clothes such as Russian fur muffs, high-collared satin Mandarin jackets and retro-50s cocktail dresses. For more formal events they prefer sleek cocktail dresses and bias cut ball gowns that are reminiscent of the style of Audrey Hepburn.
They love precious gems, but are more inclined to wear a precious gift or a family memento as opposed to a flashy rock. They also emphasize their individuality by hosting a cupboard full of hats perfect for any occasion.
Capricorn
Capricorns are blessed them with natural good taste and an eye for quality and durability. They tend to purchase timeless individual pieces and prefer well-tailored, conservative items in colors such as rose, grey, navy blue, sky blue and camel. This sometimes self-conscious sing prefers long sleeves to short sleeves and high collars to plunging cleavages. They also like vintage clothing, as long as it is in pristine condition.
Capable Capricorns like to add delicate feminine touches to power suits such as diamond earrings or an antique pin.
Female Cappies, often boast perfectly organized closets filled with classic items such as open-toed slingbacks, patent leather purses, crisp white blouses, navy suits, black cocktail dresses and well fitting jeans. They also treasure hair accessories such as tortoise shell clips and satin bows.
They love gemstones, in all colors of the rainbow, but would most value a classic piece such as a diamond tennis bracelet, an antique cameo or a pendant that sports their initials
Aquarius
These graceful, thoughtful and sensitive creatures are very concerned about what others think of them. They tend to choose clothes that make a strong, expressive personal statement. They love brilliant tones of purple, gold, sky-blue, ruby-red and emerald green.
At work Aquarian females tend to dress slightly more eccentrically than their colleagues. They are fond of patterns, plaids and pinstripes as well as unusual fabrics such as herringbone, tweed, seersucker and poplin. They have a jaunty sense of style, and often perk up an outfit by sporting a beret, a bright hair band or a large and funky piece of costume jewelry.
They detest extravagance and love to shop for clothes at flea markets, vintage shops and retail outlets. They are attracted to one-of-a-kind items such as hand-knit sweaters and caps and crocheted ponchos and shawls. Yet, at the same time they love the feel and tight-fit of Lycra and futuristic polyester blends. Sometimes they can seem very "space-age" in their streamlined, zippered black suits. For a night out, a female Aquarian will choose unusual pieces, such as a white sequined skirt, purple cowboy or a top made of a glittering mesh of gold chains.
Aquarians love jewelry that has an antique or futuristic look and tend to purchase unusual or one of a kind pieces to compliment their eccentric outfits.

Pisces
These very feminine, delicate and sensitive creatures tend to choose sensuous items that appeal to their idealistic sense of romance. They love the "girlyness" of the pastel colors and the tactile allure of silk, velvet and satin fabrics.
At the office they will often sport higher hemlines and lower cut blouses. For casual wear, blouses boasting voluminous ruffles, tight-fitting shirts with lace trim and sensuous cashmere sweaters. They are also very athletic and like to go camping, fishing and hiking, so their closets often overflowing with sports gear, tennis shoes, golf shoes and equestrian wear. They also like long flowing chiffon gowns that make them appear like a goddess at formal events.
As the sea rules this sign they are partial to jewelry made from coral, seashell, pearl and mother-of-pearl. However, as they are very nostalgic and often religious, they are more likely to wear a gift from a lover or a family heirloom as a favored peace of jewelry. As Pisces is the sign that represents the 2000-year epoch of the rule of the Christians, they are also fond of wearing religious jewelry such as antique Roman coins, and medallions of the Saints.

Samantha Steven's articles have been published in many high-standing
newspapers and she has published several books. If you wish to buy
Samantha's books about metaphysics click here
http://www.insomniacpress.com/author.php?id=110
You can meet Samantha Stevens at http://www.psychicrealm.com where she
works as a professional psychic. You can also read more of her articles at
http://www.newagenotebook.com

Unique Mens Wedding Bands, - For When Common Won't Do.
Peter Crump

Wedding rings are a symbol of union. A union between a man and a woman.

This tradition of publicising the union between the man and a woman is a tradition that goes way back to the ancient Egyptians.

Then the use of a ring was slightly different then than now. A ring consisted of something that was more commonly available to the Egyptians. Rushes from along the banks of the Nile.

Rushes were used to symbolise the union between male and female by braiding a small piece around the finger. This created a never ending circle that symbolised eternity. A never ending circle of love.

However although this tradition goes back thousands of years the
wearing of men's wedding bands is much newer. It was really only after the second world war that men decided that the wearing of a mens wedding band was an appropriate way to celebrate their new commitment to their bride.

Now that the wearing of a mens wedding band is fashionable men are turning their thoughts to which type of ring to buy. And as it is rare that a man will wear an engagement ring, (although not unheard of), their wedding ring is often the only piece of jewelry that they will wear. So they need to give it some thought.

So in many cases men want something unique. Something that no-one else has. A mens wedding band that stands out and makes a statement about just who they are. Something very different.

So what alternatives are there for the man who just wants to be
different?

Gold, Silver or Diamonds are usually first associated with wedding rings. However for the modern man there are many more choices.

Mens Platinum wedding bands and mens Titanium wedding bands are newer but no less stunning. Both are much more recent for the crafting of rings but both make for magnificent rings.

Platinum is exceptionally strong and durable. However it's appeal is its unique patina or sheen which it develops over time. And it can be crafted into a fascinating range of unusual mens wedding bands. The options are endless.

Similarly Titanium is exceptionally strong and also very light, a third of the weight of gold. This is a bonus for anyone worried about whether a ring on the finger may feel heavy.

Titanium rings are fashioned out of a single block of Titanium and so need to be made to the exact size. The range of Titanium mens rings is, like Platinum, extensive, and there are rings to suit any taste.

However for the man looking for something really unique there are many other options. The internet has opened up a whole new world for the man looking for unique mens wedding bands.

There are now online jewellers who allow you to design your own ring.

For example it is possible to design your own Titanium mens wedding band using a whole variety of Titanium colors. You choose your own ring shape, size and color or mix of colors and add any one of a variety of gemstones to it as you wish. These can be placed exactly as you desire to create a really unique men's wedding band unlike anything anyone else has anywhere in the world.

For the really adventurous there's more. Why not carbon fibre? How about stainless steel, or two tone bands? Or celtic mens wedding bands?

And why not get REALLY adventurous if you wish. For those who want something right out of the ordinary there are many options.

Zodiac mens wedding rings are stunning. Available in all the zodiac signs a zodiac ring will turn the head. Large and very visible a zodiac ring is not for the faint hearted but for the man who wants to be noticed it is a ring that must be considered. And two tone zodiac rings are even better!

Not suitable for a wedding ring? Who says! For the man who wants to be unique it doesn't matter. If he, and she, both like it then it works for them. That's all that matters.

How about mens gambling rings? For the gamblers amongst us there are rings featuring all manner of gambling symbols. How about a gold and diamond roulette ring? It really does have a tiny roulette wheel, with numbers.

Or a gold and diamond spinning dice ring that really does have 2 tiny dice? Or a gold spinning black jack ring.

Even unusual gemstones can be made into the most unique mens wedding bands. Two tone rings with Tanzanite anyone? Gold with Blue Topaz? Gold, Diamond and Garnet?

So although the wearing of mens wedding bands is relatively new, it doesn't have to be boring. These types of rings are not for everyone, but for the man who wants a really unique mens wedding band there are lots of choices.

It's just a case of how unique do you want to be!!!


Find out more about Unique Mens Rings as well as many other types of Mens Wedding Rings including Custom Men's Wedding Rings and Platinum, Gold,
Silver, Diamond, and inexpensive Mens Wedding Rings.
© 2005 Peter Crump.

"Promoting Your Business on CD"

Kenny Love

In the Music industry, whenever most independent
musicians release a new recording today, a
certain aspect of their promotion entails their
distribution and giveaway of FREE samples of
their music on a separate promotional compact
disc. This serves as a 'teaser' in enticing
prospects to then go to record stores to buy the
full-length recording.

As 'writeable' promo discs can be purchased
inexpensively at stores such as Wal-Mart, after
which the music samples are copied from the
hard drive to the CD, or by using what is known as
a CD burner (high-speed duplicator), it should
come as no surprise that even the most financially
challenged musicians are now embracing this
invaluable and well proven promotional aspect for
bringing immediate attention to their music.

And, as this method has proven unanimously
beneficial in terms of ease of finance, promotion
and time, there is absolutely no reason that a
similar process cannot also work for your own
business, albeit, a few elements properly
customized (be sure your computer's compact
disc is a "writeable" type, and not simply a
"readable" one).

As such, I am providing a "from start to finish"
outline that you should find very effective, almost
immediately, whether you wish to reach out to your
prospects locally, regionally or nationally.

Hypothetically, let's say you are in the field of
Cosmetology, and own and operate a hair salon.
Though your industry has a ready-made market,
with women repeatedly visiting on a regular basis,
naturally, there is also a fair degree of competition
from other salons in your area as well.

And, as such, you've noticed that your business
sales and clients, have either begun to level off,
stagnate or, possibly, even diminish. What can
you quickly do to maintain and increase your
clientele and, accordingly, your salon's income?

1. Why not take all of the elements of your
business, such as your weekly specials,
information about your salon such as its history,
your web site address, email address, regular
prices, business hours, contact information, along
with the various products and services you offer,
then format them into attractive files and place
them on compact discs for distribution?

Your prospects are certain to be pleasantly
surprised with this new out-of-the-norm promotion
method and anxious to see what surprise awaits
them on the CD.

2. Next, consider all the businesses women might
patronize, such as women's shoe stores, women's
clothing stores, jewelry stores, supermarkets, mall
stores, cosmetic stores, etc. Your goal is to
consider businesses that are complementary to
your own services, yet, are not in competition in
any way.

3. Now, contact the store managers and/or owners,
informing them that you are a fellow local business
owner, and request to know if they will consider
handing out your CD of information to their
customers and/or clients who have computers and,
hopefully, have Internet service. You might even
request to enter into a barter agreement with these
businesses, whereby, you distribute their sales
information as well.

While all contacts you make might not be receptive
to this idea, undeniably, you will acquire more than
a few who will be interested, if for no other reason
than the opportunities to offer their customers a
little something extra and/or to get their own
business information into the hands of new
prospects (your customers) as well.

4. Also, be sure to not only consider distributing
your CDs hand-to-hand on your own, always
having them available on your person ready to
hand out, but also having them available at your
salon to give to your existing and new customers.

5. Another avenue, is to consider doing a local
or regional mail-out campaign. You could simply
contact prospects via telephone and attempt to
qualify them by simply asking if they own a computer
and, if so, that you would like to send them a CD of
info regarding your hair salon and its services.

6. If your budget allows, yet, another method is to
contact an area print publication that specifically
targets women and request if you can pay to have
your CD attached to one of their issues, or
included as an insert.

7. To backtrack for a moment, be sure that your
web site contains a form readily viewable on it so
that when prospects with online service access
your site, your form can readily capture their email
address, as well as their mailing address.

This is vital information that you need in order to
provide your customers with any updates to your
products, services, prices or any other changes
that might occur. And, speaking of the provision
of updates, you should also consider starting a
newsletter for this purpose as well if you have not
yet done so.

Again, you also want to be sure your CD contains
as much vital information for people who don't
have online access although, practically anyone
with a computer these days, also has access.

This aspect of promotion could serve to either
offset and eliminate any print, radio or television
advertisement costs you currently have, or serve
to complement them. Your overall production
costs (bulk rate price and time spent copying files)
on the compact disc will probably be between $.30
and $.40 per unit.

If you distribute, say, 1000 info CDs at a cost of
$400, and gain merely 10% (100) new customers,
I believe you will find that the $400 will be a very
wise and worthwhile investment, not to mention
that you can continue and/or repeat the process
as often as you wished.

And, if you happen to reside in a small rural area,
you could also experience great results by simply
distributing your CD information county-wide, or
regionally.

Again, this promotional analogy is applicable to,
virtually, any business. Further examples include:

1. Auto dealerships working with car parts
suppliers, or vice versa.

2. Lawn services working with lawn mower repair
shops, or vice versa.

3. How about photography services including their
CD of info in their yearly school/student packages?

4. Even in an agricultural community, feed stores
could include a CD of their info in farmers'
purchases.

5. Why not even go a couple of steps farther by
placing audio files or, perhaps, even video files on
the CD as well?

Your audio could include your voiceover giving a
welcome to the prospect at the beginning, and
also serve as a direction to the various business
elements on your disc. Likewise, your video could
integrate animated video for an even more
pleasing experience for your prospective client.

As I stated previously, virtually, everyone, in all
areas of your community has a computer and/or
the availability of online access through friends,
relatives, area schools, libraries, etc. And, the
creativity of any part of the promotional CD is
only limited by your imagination.

So, why not truly give some serious thought to
bringing the marketing and promotion of your
business into the 21st Century? At the very least,
your promotion via CD should certainly get you
noticed far above your area competition.



Kenny Love is a business marketer,
promoter and also authors inexpensive handbooks
on unique but highly-profitable businesses that
many people are unaware of, or simply overlook.
His web site is located at http://www.kennylove.net.



The Gifts We Give our Dogs
Carolyn Schweitzer

Whoever coined the phrase, "It's a Dog's Life" wasn't familiar with 21st century dogs. Time was when the average canine slept outside, ate whatever scraps of food were tossed his way, and if he was lucky, was thrown the occasional bone. He was even expected to earn his keep!
Times have changed. As the world has grown more affluent, so have our pets. We're obsessed with keeping our canine companions happy, healthy, and properly accessorized. So much so that many of us worry about our own welfare less than that of our dog. This didn't happen overnight-- the trend started decades ago.�
Take, for example, my grandmother Rose. During the 60's and 70's, Rose and Henry discovered cruise vacations. On every cruise, whenever they pulled into port to "shop", Rosie made it her mission to find stray dogs and feed them. She'd head straight for the butcher, buy a few pounds of fresh meat, and comb the islands for the hungry and homeless. She would exclaim, "It's a crime the way these animals live!"-- in spite of the fact that the people of those islands were desperately poor!
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not passing judgment on Grandma, or anyone else. I spoil my pets as much as the next guy or gal, and take immense pleasure in it. Truth be told, I'd rather hang out with my dog than with a whole lot of people I know. We share a special bond, my best friend and I. Hey, admit it... lots of you feel the same way!�
The fact is, man has always had a close relationship with animals, and has enjoyed having pets around for companionship. Having a pet can bring great pleasure into our lives, and is believed to have a therapeutic effect on the owner. For empty nesters and those who've delayed or opted out of having kids, pets almost take the place of children. We bond with our pets especially because they don't judge us. Dogs in particular offer the kind of unconditional love we all crave. They're always thrilled to have us around!
So, how do we spoil our pets?�
Probably in much the same way that we spoil our children! Aside from all of the care attention lavished on America's pets, a tremendous amount of money is spent providing goods and services that were once deemed a luxury-- but are now considered essential.
Today's dog sees the vet for regular checkups. She eats premium dog food and munches on gourmet doggie treats, is enrolled in obedience classes, and runs agility courses. She has her own collections of toys, clothing, and possibly even dog jewelry and canine cologne. She sleeps indoors on a luxury orthopedic bed and takes shelter outdoors in her cedar dog house. She wears a safety harness when riding in the family car, a reflective vest on hunting trips, and rain gear in foul weather. She can even dodge UV rays with a pair of doggie sunglasses. Her responsibilities are few.
I could go on (don't worry, at some point I will!). But one of the most notable signs that we regard our dogs as members of our family is the fact that we buy them gifts. A dog gift for the holidays, a dog gift for a special occasion, or a dog gift to show our appreciation for how much our dogs appreciate us. Any reason will do. Heck, we even wrap our dog gifts!
Here are some very interesting statistics regarding gifts for pets:

* More than half of U.S. households have pets, and many of them are including their "best friends" in holiday plans.�
* According to a survey conducted by the Pet Supplies "Plus" chain, 97% of its customers will buy gifts for their animals this Yuletide season.�
* 28% of owners will spend more on their pets than on their spouses when buying gifts.
* 47% will spend more on their pets than on relatives other than their spouse.
* 54% will spend more on their pets than on their in-laws.
* 83% will wrap their pets' gifts.
* 68% claim that their pets will unwrap presents themselves with their paws.
* 71% will buy something practical for them.

Buying gifts for our pets is only the half it. If someone we know is a pet lover, we often show our support by giving the person a pet-related gift. And, since the saying goes, "love me, love my dog", there's often pressure to throw in a little dog gift for Spike too. For a casual dog-loving aquaintance, our dog lover gift might be a simple coffee mug with a picture of their favorite dog breed. A set of plush doggie-themed golf club covers could make an amusing gift for a colleague. Maybe Aunt Janine has a collection of dog figurines we can add to. Or, at the other end of the spectrum, one could splurge on a diamond-studded doggie themed bracelet for the wife (although I wouldn't recommend this as an anniversary gift. Unless you're verrry sure.) and a new house for Spike.�
The good news is, there's no shortage of goods and services to inspire even the most rabid of dog lovers and dog gift shoppers. And dog lover gift shoppers. Whether the names on your gift list are human or canine, you'll never run out of things to buy and places to shop. If you're one of those gifted gift givers who's never at a loss for what to get and where to find it I envy you. If you're more like the rest of us, and you need a little help, you'll find plenty of ideas online (Ahem!). You can also look for future articles in this series, in which I'll hone in on various ways you can pamper and reward the dogs and dog lovers in your life.�
So go ahead, spoil your furry friends. Celebrate your love for your dog, and your sister in law's love for her dog. Shower them with goodies and gifts. It's a dog's life. And if I get to come back for another round, I want it to be as one of those lucky dogs!!


Lifelong dog-lover, power-shopper, and former family dentist Carolyn Schweitzer is owner and editor of http://www.great-dog-gift.com. The site offers a wide range of choices for dog gift shoppers, plus shopping and gift-giving tips. She's always looking for new dog gift ideas and dog stories to share with her readers. You can reach her by email at netbrainer@verizon.net�

How to Choose a Pearl Necklace for Your Wedding Day

Yan Berry

The elegant beauty of a strand of pearls has fascinated brides for centuries. People believe that wearing pearls on their wedding day will bring bliss to their marriage.

Pearls are classic wedding jewelry. How do you choose that perfect pearl necklace?

Here are some tips:

There are four types of pearls: Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, and freshwater. Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea pearls grow in oceans. They are more valuable than freshwater pearls for their rarity and high luster.

Akoya pearls are the most popular. These pearls are valued for their rich color, mirror-like finish, and appealing roundness.

As with any other gemstones, the value of pearls is determined by their quality.
A pearl's quality can be A, AA, AA+, AAA, AAA+. The last two, AAA and AAA+ pearls, have the best quality and they are most valuable. For pearls of the same size, an 'A' quality pearl necklace costs only a small fraction of AAA quality pearl necklace.

The quality and value of pearls are based upon six criteria: luster, nacre, surface, color, shape, size and matching. The educated buyer uses his or her preferences to decide which criteria are most important.

Nacre: Most buyers of pearl jewelry pay most attention to the pearls' nacre thickness. Nacre is the coating that a pearl oyster produces to cover the pearl's nucleus; it is the key to how long pearls last. You should look for pearls with nacre thickness over 0.4mm.

Luster and Surface: Luster is the amount of light reflected from the pearl's surface. A strand of pearls with high luster, mirror finish and clean surfaces is most desirable and valuable.

Color: It is a personal choice. Consider buying a pearl necklace whose color will complement your clothing and your skin tone.

Size: The price of pearls that are larger than 7mm varies greatly. People usually buy the largest pearls they can afford.

Shape: Round pearls are most desirable and valuable.

Matching: For a pearl necklace or bracelet, matching refers to the ways in which all of the pearls are similar. It is difficult to find enough identical pearls to make a well-matched pearl necklace; therefore such a necklace commands a top price.

After you have decided the type, color, size and quality of pearls that you want, think about your budget. Take your time to shop around and find that perfect pearl necklace for your wedding day!

Copyright: © 2004 by Yan Berry


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

The Difference Between "Need" and "Want"
Craig Nathanson

Let's face it: Most people spend way too much money on things they don't really need. The more money we make, the more we tend to spend. This endless cycle of materialism has led many people to confuse the word "need" with the word "want." As in, "we need a big-screen TV for our new home theater." Or, "I need a new pair of shoes to go with my new outfit."

If you want to achieve your vocational passion, where every day you jump out of bed and can't wait to go to work, then you need to re-order your priorities. Stay away from the purely material.

The pursuit of material success often is the root cause of burnout at midlife. In fact, a recent study at the University of California at Berkeley found that people primarily motivated by the love of their work grow dissatisfied as they begin to make more money.

The first step to breaking free from the materialism trap is to understand the difference between "need" and "want."

We need food, clothing, shelter, reliable transportation, education, enrichment, and the technology necessary to do our work. Also, we need the occasional small indulgence to treat our children and ourselves.

We do not need 500 cable TV channels, brand new luxury cars, 5,000-square-foot homes in exclusive neighborhoods, lavish ski vacations, and smart phones that do everything but think for us.

There is nothing wrong with wanting these things. But understand that these things do not make us happy, in and of themselves. And, they are often links in the chains that bind us to jobs we despise.

Often, those who make a leap to vocational passion end up making more money over the long term. But in the short term, income usually declines. It may even go away for a period of time. Typically, the first two years of a career change - in particular, one motivated purely by vocational passion - are financially difficult. Major lifestyle and attitude adjustments are critical to making the money last while you pursue your dream.

The amazing thing is that once you learn to live on less, it becomes a habit. The peace of mind that comes from relying less on materialism to define success usually leads to a greater and deeper happiness.

Getting Real About Money

So. Now we understand that pursuing vocational passion requires a major adjustment in our attitude toward money and material comfort. The next step is getting down to the details.

What does it take to transform yourself and your family from a unit that consumes as much as it earns to one that respects money and makes it last?

The trick is to look at all expenses, both big and small. Leave no stone unturned. No savings is too small, and no category of spending should be free from scrutiny.

Those looking to leave a job to pursue a vocational passion face two core issues: raising enough money to fund a career change, and changing spending patterns to make the money last. Raising the money can be a tremendous challenge, depending on your financial resources. Savings, bonds, securities, IRAs, home equity, jewelry, valuables, and family resources are all avenues for raising capital to sustain your family during this transition.

Consider these options to cut down your burn rate. Some will seem dramatic. But if you have decided that your only chance at happiness is to pursue a vocational dream, small measures won't cut it.

� If you live in a "McMansion," consider selling it. You could use the proceeds to buy a smaller house in a less expensive neighborhood. That would leave you with no mortgage or a much smaller "nut" to make each month. Whatever the size of your home, you can go a step further and use 100% of the proceeds of a home sale as working cash for the transition, then rent a house instead. Seeking the advice of a tax attorney or a financial planner may be wise, particularly when you are selling your home or using it as security on a loan. But, do not let these advisers sway you from your core decisions. They are there only to give you advice on the smartest way to pursue the path you have chosen.

� Consider part-time or project-based work in the field you are moving out of to supplement your income during the transition. Also, look generally to part-time work as a way to slow your burn rate. Ask each eligible member of your family to contribute toward supporting the household.

� Evaluate your home, car, and health insurance costs. Are you over-insured? Can you raise your deductibles? This often can reduce premiums significantly. Also, health insurance rates for small businesses, even those with one or two employees, are often more favorable than individual policies.

� Take a look at what you drive. Is it a "badge" brand imported car? Is it a "suburban assault vehicle?" There are many presentable, economical cars with good long-term reliability that can be purchased used. Sell your status symbol and buy one of these other cars instead. You will save on car payments, gas and insurance. You will be better off the minute you stop trying to impress people with what you drive.

� Let your children fund a little more of their own college education. Student loans are not a lifelong burden, and in fact many successful people have paid for their education this way. So can your children. They will still love you.

� Sweat the small stuff. Look at every element of your daily spending and ask whether it is necessary. Do you have features on your phone service that you never use? How many videos do you rent every week? (They are free at the local library, by the way.) How important are those premium cable channels? How many pizzas did you order last month? How much do you spend every day on designer coffee, soft drinks, and fast food? How much do you spend on dinners at nice restaurants? Take a look at what's in your grocery cart. How much of it is snack food or impulse buys that are both bad for you and a waste of money? If you still need a reason to quit smoking, the $5-plus per pack you are spending ought to finally get you to give up that habit. Is your home well insulated, or does money in the form of energy fly out the window? Do you turn out the lights when you leave a room? How much do you waste each year on late fees for credit cards or overdue videos? How necessary is each short trip you take in the car? Can you combine trips, or make small, local errands on foot or on your bike, (which saves money and burns calories)?

Make the effort to evaluate everything you do. You'll be amazed by the amount of money you can save.


Craig Nathanson, The Vocational Coach, is the author of "P Is For Perfect: Your Perfect Vocational Day," by Book Coach Press. He publishes the free monthly e-zine, "Vocational Passion in Mid-life." Craig believes the world works a little better when we do the work we love. He helps those in mid-life carry this out. Visit his online community at http://www.thevocationalcoach.com where you can sign up for his next Tele-class coming up January, 26th.

Enhance Fashion with Silver

Nerello Glasure

Fashion is not about being safe, no. It is about having fun with style. We think silver is the perfect compliment to your wardrobe's style. Yes, a great way for even the most conservative to move safely into the unsafe style zone! Silver pieces hold their style and a zany piece can be forever trendy.

Silver jewelry accessories are used as a form of an individual's personal expression and fashion art. When thinking of personal expression styles we tend to look at clothing, hair styling, and jewelry accessories. The almighty Silver being a key jewelry accessory, adding flare and creative artistry. Now compare Silver's cost effectiveness to both clothing and hair. Clothing has to be replaced periodically, and your hair has to be cut and styled. Ahh-but buying an artistic silver jewelry accessory is a one time expense, but a gift to yourself that keeps on giving over time.

Silver is flexible and appropriate for both daytime and evening wear. It is often used to accent casual fashions, sportswear, and elegant ware. It is the simple elegance of silver, this elegance gaining great favor in the worldwide fashion industry. In the winter worn with navy, black, and other dark colors, silver stands out and accents the winter wardrobe well. As well in the summer, worn with open and light-weight clothing, silver looks great and is comfortable against the bare skin.

Silver is known for its shiny bright hue when used in its polished state, but has gained extreme popularity in a duller matte finish or a combination of the polished and matte. Silver possesses working qualities similar to copper and gold, but enjoys greater reflectivity and can achieve a brilliant polish and shine. To make it durable for jewelry, however, pure silver (99% fineness) is alloyed together with small quantities of copper and other metals. In many countries, (92.5% silver, 7.5% other) is the standard for sterling silver.

However, silver is often mixed with a variety of alloys. The added alloy gives the silver hardness, durability, and uniqueness. Without the alloy, the silver piece would be too soft to wear. The mix toughens the silver and makes it possible to use silver for odd shaped jewelry, silverware, picture frames, and more.

Silver jewelry is enjoying an unprecedented popularity with today's fashion conscious public. So, when in fashion do as the fashion-what-its do, use Silver in its many forms to forego dowdy formalities to keep your style unique, fresh, and captivating.



Nerello Glasure [Fashion Artist of Zany Wearables: http://www.zanygiftware.com and a Publishing Member of the Wine Resource: http://www.winedefinitions.com.]

Rafferty Rose Fine Jewelry
Rose Hayes

We bring the very best jewelry, watches, miscellaneous items, and antiques (or as I'd prefer to call them heirlooms and collectibles) to all price ranges and to all age groups. We have decided to fill a niche group by offering a variety of price ranges to fit everyone's needs and desires. Some of our items are our of the ordinary, ornate and estate items. Truly amazing!

We started in November, 2001, on a wing and a prayer in the hopes that our business would make it. With the help of my daughter, Shana, she helped me with road shows, and people came liked our items, we we decided to give it our very best shot on the web.

Promise Rings! Hot Symbols of Commitment Since the 16th Century!

Mary Ferguson

What's all this fuss about promise rings? Are they something new or have they been around for a while? What do they mean and why is my teenager wearing one? If you've ever wondered what the rage is all about, then you've come to the right place!

What exactly is a promise ring?

When an agreement or oath has been made between two people, a promise ring is a piece of jewelry given as a token of the commitment that was made.

Sounds simple enough doesn't it? Well, be careful because the promise made between two people can be practically anything. It's imperative that both parties are clear on the meaning of the pact or pledge.

For example:

• 
  
• Monogamy: A promise to stay faithful to one another.
• 
  
• Chastity or Purity: A promise to keep ones virginity until marriage.
• 
  
• Friendship: A promise to seal a pledge of eternal friendship.
• 
  
• Substance or Sobriety: A promise to remain free from addictive behavior (alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, etc.).
• 
  
• Religious or Christian: A promise to remain committed to one's faith or belief in the God of their understanding.
• 
  

These are just a few of the more popular reasons to give or wear a promise ring.

Pre-Engagement

That being said, the most popular reason to give a promise ring is for pre-engagement.

Are you confused yet? Pre-engagement is actually not as bad as it sounds. It has always been popular to exchange promise rings, so a couple can showcase their commitment to one another prior to getting engaged. In other words, this ring is symbolic of a promise there will be an engagement ring forthcoming.

If you are old enough to remember "going steady" with someone then giving this type of promise ring is kind of the updated version of going steady. The symbolism of the promise ring is really no different than a girl of years ago wearing her boyfriend's high school ring on a chain around her neck or wearing her steady boyfriend's letterman jacket. If you are too young to understand this analogy, talk to your parents or grandparents and they can enlighten you.

This trial period before the engagement is a good way for a couple to test the waters before they make an actual commitment to marriage. Some may scoff at this gesture of pre-engagement. However, with the rise in divorce rates in this country it may be wise to start off slowly in the relationship instead of rushing ahead into something you are not ready for.

The other good news here is that a promise ring costs significantly less than an engagement ring. It makes a wonderful alternative for the couple who chooses not to spend a fortune on a ring at this time but still wants to make a statement about their commitment to one another.

How does one wear a promise ring - which finger, which hand?

Basically it's strictly a matter of personal preference, however the finger and hand you choose can depend entirely on the type of ring it is and in some cases the type of pledge. For example, an Irish Claddagh ring can have several meanings depending on the way it is:

• 
  
• Worn on the left hand, the wearer has made a promise of love and fidelity.
• 
  
• Worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward, the wearer's heart is free.
• 
  
• Worn on the right hand with the heart turned inward, the Wearer's heart is taken.
• 
  

If you are exchanging friendship rings, it may be wise to wear the ring on your right hand so there is no confusion about romantic ties. There are many different types of rings you can share with a friend that will be meaningful to you both. A fun vacation you went on or the love of a certain hobby or animal, for example. My best friend and I share a love of cats. Therefore, we bought matching kitty cat rings, gold with diamond pave no less! These rings are special only to us and are a symbol of our friendship.

Most people associate the wearing of a ring on the left hand ring finger to mean that a significant commitment of some sort has been made.

If the promise is for pre-engagement, many couples choose to wear this ring on their left hand ring finger. They then switch the ring to their right hand once the actual engagement ring or wedding band is received.

Likewise a ring exchanged for the promise of monogamy or fidelity would be worn on the left hand ring finger to symbolize that the wearer's heart is taken.

Where did the promise ring originate?

Rings themselves have been symbolic for many thousands of years. The circle has no beginning and no end and is a strong symbol for eternity.

Have you ever heard of a scribbling ring? In sixteenth century England, uncut diamond crystals were set into rings and exchanged by lovers. The wearers of these scribbling rings would use the points of the diamonds to etch (or "scribble") romantic writings to each other in glass, mirrors or windows.

Another popular ring exchanged during Shakespearian times was called a Posey Ring. Posey rings are inscribed with poetic phrases or dates significant to the wearer.

It is believed that wearing words next to ones skin has a magical effect. These symbolic words may be carved on the outside or inside of the ring, or on both sides, there is no right or wrong way to do it!

Posey rings are a romantic way to share an expression of love and come engraved with beautiful sayings. It is no surprise that since French is said to be the language of love -- the French poseys are very popular. Some special phrases include:

• 
  
• A Ma Vie De Coer Entier - My whole heart for my whole life
• 
  
• A Vila Mon Coer, Gardi Li Mo - Here is my heart, guard it well
• 
  
• Amor Meus - My Love
• 
  
• Autre Ne Veuil - No one, but you
• 
  
• De M'Amoure Soiez Sure - Of my love be sure
• 
  

Ok, so maybe French isn't your thing - how about one of these:

• 
  
• In Gaelic - Anam Cara - Soul Friend
• 
  
• In English - I Am My Beloved's & My Beloved Is Mine
• 
  
• In Latin - Semper Amenus - Our love is forever
• 
  
• In German - Mine Genyst - My heart
• 
  
• In Hebrew - Mazel Tov - Marital good luck ring
• 
  
• Christian - With This Ring, I Thee Wed
• 
  
• In Italian - Mani In Fede - Hands Together in Faith
• 
  
• In Spanish - No Tengo Mas Que Darte - I have nothing more to give you but my heart
• 
  

Use your imagination and write a Posey of your own!

The list of Posey ring sayings is endless! If you really want to "wow" the love of your life, come up with a special phrase that is meaningful to just the two of you. Having a special ring engraved with one of your own poseys would be a very romantic way for you to share your most heartfelt sentiments with a special someone you care about!

Mary Ferguson is a successful writer and internet entrepreneur. She has written many informative jewelry articles on such topics as promise rings, promise ring significance and promise ring etiquette.

Frugal Indoor Fun
Nancy Twigg

Now that the weather is so cold, the kids can't go out and play for long periods like they can in the summer. This means more hours to fill with fun indoor activities. Although the temptation may be to entertain the family by spending money (going to the mall, renting movies, visiting
a fast food restaurant or arcade), there are ways to keep the kids busy without draining your pocketbook. Here is a list of indoor activity ideas that are all either completely free or cost very little.

* Spend an afternoon writing letters or making homemade cards to send to out-of-state relatives. Let the kids make drawings, finger paint portraits, or collages to send to Grandma and Grandpa to adorn their refrigerator.
* Help the kids make up skits or act out stories to perform for Dad when he gets home from work. Along those same
lines, help the children put together a family talent show in which they sing, dance or do magic tricks. For added fun, use a camcorder to record the performances to watch later. The children will love seeing themselves on TV.
* Pull out the teapot and teacups and hold an afternoon tea party. Along with your tea, serve finger sandwiches and cookies. If your children are too young for tea, serve heated lemonade or hot chocolate.
* On a cold afternoon, spread a blanket on the den floor and have an indoor picnic. Eat the same kinds of picnic foods you would in the summer.
* Go camping indoors. Pitch a tent in the living room and let the kids pretend that they are on a camping trip. Pull out the sleeping bags and they can take naps in the tent or
even sleep the whole night there. Let them invite friends over for an indoor camping sleepover.
* Get the whole family together to work a giant jigsaw puzzle together. Be sure to have plenty of popcorn on hand for snacking.
* Provide the kids with fruits, vegetables and snack foods cut in a variety of shapes and sizes. Ask the kids to use the different shapes to create their own edible artwork. The only rule is that they have to eat whatever they put on their plates. Be sure to take pictures of their creations before they eat them.
* Almost all kids enjoy playing dress-up. Gather up all the outdated clothes, gaudy jewelry, weird hats and bright makeup you can find and let the kids go for it! Be sure to take pictures.
* Pull out those board games or card games. When's the last time the family enjoyed a friendly game of Scrabble or
Monopoly? Turn off the TV and enjoy some family together time as you enjoy some friendly competition.
* Speaking of cards, why not use those playing cards to build card houses? Compete to see who can build the tallest card condominium.
* Rather than renting movies from the video store, borrow videos from friends. In return, offer to lend them any videos you own. Be sure to return them promptly when you're done.

Nancy Twigg is the editor of Counting the Cost, a free
email newsletter about simple and frugal living
(www.countingthecost.com/index1.htm). For more creative
money-saving ideas, visit Nancy's newest website,
www.CreativeFrugality.com

Loan Basics

Paul Heath

There is more than one type of loan. Depending upon your situation, you might find that what works in one circumstance does not work in another. This means that it is very important for you to educate yourself about different kinds of loans so that you are more prepared when you speak with a lending officer, or with a financial counselor. It is especially important that you understand what the different sorts of loans entail so that you are not pushed into making a wrong decision by a lender that is more interested in a percentage rather than your financial well being.

Understanding the difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan.

At their very basic, loans come in two kinds: secured and unsecured. Whether you are looking into business loans or personal loans, they will either be secured or unsecured. Credit cards, which are basically consumer loans, are also denoted with these names. However, you will find that most credit cards are unsecured, unless they have a very high limit.

A secured personal loan is one that requires a form of collateral. Collateral is something of value that the lender can possess if you fail to meet your obligations. A home loan is a secured loan. If you default, then the lender can take your home to cover its costs. Auto loans and car title loans are other examples of this. It is also possible, for smaller loans, to offer valuable jewelry or electronic equipment as proof that you will pay back the money you borrow. However, it needs to be something that the lender feels it can use to recover its loss should you default. If you are seeking a bad credit loan, more than likely you will have to put forth some collateral. When you have less than favorable credit, you are immediately seen as a higher risk, and therefore must offer something to justify the risk the lender acquires in allowing you to borrow money.

Unsecured loans are the opposite. They require no collateral. As mentioned previously, credit cards are a form unsecured loans. Many banks offer small signature loans. These are usually loans of between $500 and $3,000. Most unsecured debt comes in smaller amounts. This is because if you stop making payments, the lender loses what you have been lent. They can turn you over to collections, and can call demanding payment, but, ultimately, if you have no money and cannot pay, the lender loses out. However, the cost to you is also great. Your credit is effectively destroyed, making it next to impossible for you to get a mortgage in the future. It can even hamper your chances of receiving approval for an auto loan or a credit card.

Any loans you take out, whether they are secured or unsecured, are reflected in your credit report. It is important to establish a pattern of responsibility fulfilling your obligations in full, and in a timely manner.

You may freely redistribute this article on your website providing no alterations are made to the text and the links remains intact.



This article is courtesy of http://www.4a-loan.co.uk
For loans & finance please visit us http://www.4a-loan.co.uk

Getting Your Family Involved In Your Home Business
Craig Binkley

Do you own your own home business? Is your family involved with your daily business? Yeah, I know at times it seems easier to just do everything yourself. It is an easy trap to get into. Why take the time to explain the job, show them how it should be done, make sure it is done properly, and then possibly have to redo the project if it is not done to your liking? Yes, we have all been through this at some point. The question is: what are you going to do about it?

You basically have two options: Do everything yourself or invest the time to get your family involved. For me, the second one is the ONLY option.

First off, if you are doing everything yourself, you are probably spending a lot more time with your business than with your family. Secondly, you are depriving your spouse and children of the joy of owning a home business.

Why not take some of the burden off of yourself by allowing your family to help you in your daily tasks. Here are a few ideas that you can implement to start getting your family involved.

SPOUSE: If your spouse is not involved with you in your home business you are missing a great opportunity to spend some much needed time with him/her. I know, this may not be everyone's idea of quality time with your beloved, but is it not better than the alternate - you doing your thing and he/she doing theirs? My wife is my biggest supporter. She is the person I bounce ideas off of. She is also my proofreader. If your spouse is not in tune with what you are doing, do what you can to peak their interest and get them involved today.

YOUNG CHILDREN: Obviously there is not much for a toddler to do, but as they grow older you can give them small jobs to start out (dumping your trash can, sharpening your pencils, etc.) and continuing to give them more challenging jobs as they become more mature. No matter what the job, kids feel a sense of pride in knowing they are "pitching in".

TEENAGERS: This is the group you need to get! There are so many things that a teen can get involved with (sports, music, friends, drugs). Wouldn't it be nice if what they are involved with were your business? If you have been giving them jobs as younger children then most likely they are already involved. If you are just getting started with your business and/or getting to those teens, try giving them some things that they might not expect that you would delegate to them (typing a letter or making a call to a supplier to place an order). Let them see that you have the confidence in them and they will respond likewise.

Our teen daughter makes her own jewelry so we decided to make it a part of our business with a section of our website dedicated to her creations only. After seeing this, our oldest son decided he wanted something to do, so he started making wood-burned signs. We added a page for him also. They both are very proud of the fact that the stuff they are making is actually on the web. It has gotten them very interested in what we do as a family business and allows us to get them even more involved as time goes by.

In conclusion, do whatever you can to get your family involved. Not only will it alleviate some of your workload, it can truly draw you family closer together.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Craig Binkley, husband and father
assisting in the restoration of the
"traditional" family through home
business ownership.
http://www.bornagainbargains.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

New Website, Secure Ordering, Gifts for all occasions

Jenny Spaulding

New Website,Great Prices,Secure ordering, credit and debit cards excepted. 100% committed to bringing you the best quality and customer service possible,We offer a full line of merchandise from nic-nacs to birdhouses, to find jewelry,Plenty of home decor and we have just added our Christmas Cheer items.
www.impressionsgiftsonline.com/

Hello My name is jenny and i have been in business sinse 1991 and now I am pleased to bring it to you on line.We are based in Michigan.

This Season Has A Wonderful Mix of Cuts and Styles
Sher Matsen

Summer is here so it's time to freshen up that wardrobe and make your fashion statement for the season.
If you've had a look around the stores or boutiques you'll notice some of the pretties clothes and accessories are displaying fruit. Very upbeat and refreshing after the winter blah.
Well placed appliqu�s, amusing details, juicy colors make these articles of clothing girlish and flirty. The perfect look for weekends and casual days. We've got cherry print dresses, pineapple topped shirts, melon and kiwi print pants and host of other deliciously flavorable garments. If your wardrobe doesn't consist of a lot of fruit why not added some fruit jewelry, Lemons, grapes, cherries - what ever your favorite you'll be in style.
Some of our favorite designer fashion fruit picks this month are:
A cotton graphic T from J Crews selling for $28.00
Satin cropped fruited pants from D&G seliing for $365.00 available at Neiman Marcus stores
A Silk cherry print skirt by Beth Bowley selling for $170.00
A cotton cherry print dress by Moschino Jeanna selling for $430 at Sloan
Leather shoes with faux wood heal from Faryl-robin selling for $89.00
Rhinestone and Lucite lemon necklace from Alexis Bittar selling for $212
Straw hat with glass fruit charms from Hat Attack selling for $88 at Big Drop
Canvas cherry wallet with strap from Louis Vuitton selling for $300

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

This season is a season of nostalgia because the last time we saw fruity patterns so popular was back in the 1950s. Fruity in moderation is the key to wearing these prints. Here's a good rule of thumb - if it looks good on a 5 or 6 year old then it's not for a grown women.
If your in your 20s-30s you can choose one item that is a big and bold fruit to make your outfit standout. Don't get carried away. One will make a statement.
If your in your 40s fruity sweetness can quickly sour. Avoid big and bold, rather opting for mini fruit motifs. Small delicate non overpowering fruit is the key here
If your 50+ then no more than a hint of fruit is for you. How about a cherry tote bag or a pineapple brooch pinned to your blouse, or some strawberries on your flip flops. Remember light is much tastier!

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

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.



© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

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

The Bigger the Carat the Better the Wedding?

A Diamond Christmas 2004!

by Keith Thompson

When Archduke Maximillian of Austria bestowed a diamond
ring on Mary of Burgundy in 1477, giving a diamond as a
symbol of love and commitment was birthed. Prior to this
only royalty wore diamonds, believing they symbolized
strength and courage. The root of the word diamond comes
from the Greek word "adamas", which means unconquerable".
Other folklore surrounding diamonds links them to Cupid,
whose arrows were said to be tipped with diamonds.

A diamond is an exceedingly rare item. Over 250 tons of
ore must be processed to come up with just one 1-carat
diamond of any quality. There are five nations in the world
which account for over 90% of the world's rough diamond
supply, and those are Australia, Botswana, Namibia, Russia
and South Africa. Several other countries produce smaller
but significant stones, like the Canadian Excellent Cut
diamonds from the Arctic circle.

Now that we agree that they are rare and quite valuable,
why still do we want to give them as gifts? Because they're
beautiful! And elegant, dazzling and all the other
adjectives she'll likely apply when she opens the gift
you've come up with. Diamond jewelry is like nothing else,
and if you're looking to make this a Christmas or Holiday
to remember, the gift of diamonds will make this an
unforgettable Holiday season!

So how do you go about purchasing that diamond bauble
she's always wanted? Here are some guidelines to follow
that will give you the best chance at success!

WHAT DOES SHE WEAR NOW?

Notice her style now. To have the best chance at finding a
diamond style that compliments her natural chosen style you
need to come armed with the knowledge of several things.
Some of those include does she like classic, contemporary,
or vintage styling? What metals does she wear. Is it
exclusively gold, platinum, silver? Does she like bold or
muted pieces, and the relative size of the jewelry in her
possession now.

WHAT SIZE DOES SHE WEAR?

You may have to be sort of James Bondish to get this
information in order to preserve the surprise, but getting
ahold of a ring just long enough to have it sized would be
the mission, should you choose to accept it! That said,
there is always the option or buying a loose diamond and
letting her shop for the setting. You're still a hero and
she gets exactly what she wants!

THE SHAPE & SETTING

Diamonds come in many shapes and settings. Would she like
a round diamond, a marquise cut or oval, a princess cut or
emerald, pear or heart; there are many choices available to
you to find just the diamond jewelry she wants. When
your're out shopping,linger by the jewelry counters long
enough to let her look but not long enough to arouse
suspicion. You may be rewarded with hints of preference
that will help you. Take into consideration the size and
shape of her hands. This will have a bearing on how the
ring looks on her. For instance large rings sometimes
overwhelm small hands. Try to think proportionately.

THE OCCASION

What is the occasion? Is it a Christmas or Holiday gift? A
birthday bauble? Anniversary? Engagement? Whatever the
occasion, know that she'll look upon this gift as something
special, a gift of love and endearment. Choose wisely!

SHOPPING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY

Choosing where you buy a diamond has never been easier.
Besides the plethora of diamond retailers in your very
neighborhood, the internet has made diamond shopping
incredibly convenient. Most of the major jewelers have an
online presence, and often this will get you more stone for
the money, as they have little or no overhead online. Most
offer guarantees and return privileges, and buying online
is in my view very much safer than handing my credit card
to an eighteen year old with a spending problem. Also, as
you know if you're reading this, information is readily
available online, and suspect at times offline. A website
is not on commission or limited so mcuh by inventory as a
commissioned salesperson might be.

Do some discreet research, gather your data, go online and
find the rock of her dreams! Make this a Diamond Christmas!


A Diamond Christmas 2004
Keith Thompson

A Diamond Christmas 2004!

by Keith Thompson

When Archduke Maximillian of Austria bestowed a diamond
ring on Mary of Burgundy in 1477, giving a diamond as a
symbol of love and commitment was birthed. Prior to this
only royalty wore diamonds, believing they symbolized
strength and courage. The root of the word diamond comes
from the Greek word "adamas", which means unconquerable".
Other folklore surrounding diamonds links them to Cupid,
whose arrows were said to be tipped with diamonds.

A diamond is an exceedingly rare item. Over 250 tons of
ore must be processed to come up with just one 1-carat
diamond of any quality. There are five nations in the world
which account for over 90% of the world's rough diamond
supply, and those are Australia, Botswana, Namibia, Russia
and South Africa. Several other countries produce smaller
but significant stones, like the Canadian Excellent Cut
diamonds from the Arctic circle.

Now that we agree that they are rare and quite valuable,
why still do we want to give them as gifts? Because they're
beautiful! And elegant, dazzling and all the other
adjectives she'll likely apply when she opens the gift
you've come up with. Diamond jewelry is like nothing else,
and if you're looking to make this a Christmas or Holiday
to remember, the gift of diamonds will make this an
unforgettable Holiday season!

So how do you go about purchasing that diamond bauble
she's always wanted? Here are some guidelines to follow
that will give you the best chance at success!

WHAT DOES SHE WEAR NOW?

Notice her style now. To have the best chance at finding a
diamond style that compliments her natural chosen style you
need to come armed with the knowledge of several things.
Some of those include does she like classic, contemporary,
or vintage styling? What metals does she wear. Is it
exclusively gold, platinum, silver? Does she like bold or
muted pieces, and the relative size of the jewelry in her
possession now.

WHAT SIZE DOES SHE WEAR?

You may have to be sort of James Bondish to get this
information in order to preserve the surprise, but getting
ahold of a ring just long enough to have it sized would be
the mission, should you choose to accept it! That said,
there is always the option or buying a loose diamond and
letting her shop for the setting. You're still a hero and
she gets exactly what she wants!

THE SHAPE & SETTING

Diamonds come in many shapes and settings. Would she like
a round diamond, a marquise cut or oval, a princess cut or
emerald, pear or heart; there are many choices available to
you to find just the diamond jewelry she wants. When
your're out shopping,linger by the jewelry counters long
enough to let her look but not long enough to arouse
suspicion. You may be rewarded with hints of preference
that will help you. Take into consideration the size and
shape of her hands. This will have a bearing on how the
ring looks on her. For instance large rings sometimes
overwhelm small hands. Try to think proportionately.

THE OCCASION

What is the occasion? Is it a Christmas or Holiday gift? A
birthday bauble? Anniversary? Engagement? Whatever the
occasion, know that she'll look upon this gift as something
special, a gift of love and endearment. Choose wisely!

SHOPPING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY

Choosing where you buy a diamond has never been easier.
Besides the plethora of diamond retailers in your very
neighborhood, the internet has made diamond shopping
incredibly convenient. Most of the major jewelers have an
online presence, and often this will get you more stone for
the money, as they have little or no overhead online. Most
offer guarantees and return privileges, and buying online
is in my view very much safer than handing my credit card
to an eighteen year old with a spending problem. Also, as
you know if you're reading this, information is readily
available online, and suspect at times offline. A website
is not on commission or limited so mcuh by inventory as a
commissioned salesperson might be.

Do some discreet research, gather your data, go online and
find the rock of her dreams! Make this a Diamond Christmas!



Keith Thompson has done more diamond shopping than he
cares to admit! This article is available for reprint as
long as none of the content or links are changed. Keith is
the webmaster of two hot business sites:
http://www.DiamondChristmas.com and
http://www.GiftsForBiz.com