Tom's Shoes Helping within the Community

By Tami Starling

Best known for holding shoe drops in impoverished countries, Tom?s Shoes is now helping the community by holding those same shoe drops State side. Tom?s Shoes was given this chance to help last year as well. It looks like they had so much fun helping their own community that they came back for more.

Tom?s Shoes was started in 2006 after Blake Mycoskie took a trip to Argentina. On his trip he realized many of the children did not own any shoes, and he wanted to change that. He came up with the idea for Tom?s Shoes one-for-one motto with hope he could build a business that with equality profitable and charitable.

After several shoe drops to third world countries Blake Mycoskie considered a shoe drop in the United States. He realized that even though poverty in the United States doesn?t necessarily mean a lack of shoes, it often means worn out shoes, shoes that are either too tight or too big, and sharing shoes with siblings. What better way to give back to the community than provide children with proper shoes using the one-for-one motto.

Tom?s Shoe headed to New Orleans this year to along with 33 volunteers. They were all excited to have the opportunity to give away over 2,000 pairs of shoes to students in 5 schools in the surrounding New Orleans area.

Not only did Tom?s Shoes provide kids with proper fitting shoes, but they also provided them with a creative outlet. When Tom?s Shoes delivers their blank canvas shoes to kids in need they bring markers for the children to decorate their shoes, making them unique and giving meaning to the shoes. Many of the children claimed personalizing their shoes was the best part of they day (other than getting their own pair of Tom?s Shoes of course).

Blake Mycoskie has been able to help improve his own community as well as the communities in many other countries. You too can help the community using the one-for-one motto. - 30224

About the Author:

Tami Starling Has been a strong supporter of Tom's Shoes since 2007 when she first discovered the product. Check out her site to find out more about the shoe drop in the States.

The Fascinating History Of Barbie Dolls

By Helenya Kior

Barbie dolls have become a tradition. Tradition brings many collector's items. The specialty dolls are highly sought after and can become very valuable as the years pass. For example, the Holiday Barbie is normally hard to come by each year. A person has to make sure that they are in front of the line whenever the doll is put on the shelf; if not, they will not get one as they usually sell out.

Barbie dolls have been nicknamed Barbie. Mattel released the doll on March 9, 1959 at a toy show. The idea for the Barbie dolls came from Ruth Handler who was the wife of a co-founder of the Mattel toy company. She named the doll after her daughter Barbara who was used to playing with paper dolls, assuming they were in adult roles. This was because the dolls that were produced back in that time were infants. Handler saw the need for a different doll and the market was there.

The biography of Barbie was published by Random House. Her full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. Her parents are George and Margaret Roberts. They are from the make-believe town of Willows. Her boyfriend's name is Ken Carson. There have been many companions for Barbie released over the years; which included friends, their boyfriends, family, and siblings.

Barbie has experienced many careers over the decades. The careers that she participates in usually reflect current times. For example, in 2010 expect to see an Astronaut Barbie and a Registered Nurse Barbie.

Barbie dolls have caused many controversies over the decades. It has been criticized many times. It has been said that the Barbie doll represents unrealistic ideas for a woman's body.

Another controversial issue was developed after the release of the "Totally Tattoos" Barbie. The Barbie dolls featured a variety of tattoos that could be applied, including the infamous "tramp stamp" tattoo.

Barbie dolls have been in production for decades, and they will continue to be produced. We are now seeing the tradition pass into the third and fourth generations with great-grandma, grandma, mom, and child playing with the dolls. Mattel has seen the value and still produces collector dolls that can be found at their Barbie collectibles website. - 30224

About the Author:

Helenya Kior offers a Barbie doll price comparison site where you can find the best bargains.

Free Summer Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

The Summer of 2009 brings for many of us a strain on our finances. Yet, we do not want our children to loose out on the Summer Camp experience. Swift Nature Camp is a reasonable priced program that offers a traditional overnight camp program at a reasonable price.

This is a recent reprint of an article from associated press. It's the fireside tale that spooks parents every summer: A few weeks at camp can cost thousands of dollars.

To avoid that scary fate, Gabriel and Jennifer Griego and their friends plan to take turns watching the kids for part of this summer.

"In the past, we always sent them to camps the whole summer," said Gabriel Griego a 43-year-old father of two in Berkeley, Calif. "This year we're looking to reduce that by about half."

Translation: No more than $1,000 for both kids.

As families across the country watch their portfolios melt away, the penny-pinching approach is being applied to every corner of life. Summer camp, which families often plan for months in advance to secure slots, is no exception.

That doesn't mean parents are opting out of the national camp tradition altogether. In fact, enrollment numbers are on track to hit the 10 million mark that has held steady for the past several years, according to the American Camp Association.

"It's not that camp has become a yes-or-no question, but (parents are) changing the way they make decisions," said Peter Surgenor, president of the ACA, based in Martinsville, Ind.

Most commonly, Surgenor said parents are inquiring about shorter or less expensive programs. They're often surprised to learn how many options they have.

To start, there are more than 12,000 sleep-away and day camps in the country, according to ACA, meaning there's one likely to suit any budget. In some cases, nonprofit camps such as the Boys & Girls Club might waive fees for families that can't afford to pay. Churches, synagogues and social service groups also offer low-cost or free options.

One way to begin your search is through CampParents.org, an ACA-run site that lets families search for camps by region, price and key words like "soccer" or "language studies." The site also lets users narrow options to camps that accommodate special needs such as autism, diabetes or attention deficit disorder.

Limiting your search to day camps, rather than a round-the-clock sleep-away, is a fast way to slash spending.

Fees vary widely, but day camps can cost around $275 a week, while sleep-away can cost about $780, according to ACA.

Another way to scale back spending is picking shorter sessions; many camps offer a menu of programs that run between two and 10 weeks.

Kids generally get the same social benefits from camp anyway, regardless of the duration of the program, Surgenor said.

"Camp is about forming social bonds and learning how to fit into a new situation away from home," he said. "You don't need months or an elite program to achieve that."

That less-is-more philosophy is one the Griegos are embracing whole heartedly. It's a turnaround from last year, when their two children were enrolled in a patchwork of day camps that spanned the entire summer.

Now the family is cherry picking the kids' favorites, said Griego, a marketing executive for an online company. For their 6-year-old daughter Ella, that luckily includes an independent sewing camp run out of a nearby home. It costs $200 a week, compared to about $350 a week for some of the larger camps the children attended.

"The economic situation being what it is, parents are looking for comparable options that are a little less expensive," said Sean Nienow, director of the National Camp Association, a free referral service that is sponsored by the industry.

Once you settle on a camp, roll up your sleeves to wrestle down the price tag yet further.

Start by talking to the camp director. Every year, camps give away more than $39 million in scholarships, and 90 percent offer some form of financial aid, according to ACA. Don't be shy about asking camp directors what type of aid is available.

Camps will often work with struggling families to make prices more affordable, too.

At the Jefunira Camp in Mountain View, Calif., an outdoor day camp, a two-week stay typically costs about $800. But director Jeff Gamble said he's willing to negotiate lower prices for families that are struggling financially this year.

For the first time, he's also allowing payment plans, rather than requiring full payment at the time of enrollment.

"Some parents are even asking if they can defray costs by volunteering," Gamble said. With an enrollment of just 270 each year, however, he said the camp already has enough staff.

One way parents at the camp can whittle down costs is packing their child's lunch, rather than signing up for the camp's meal program.

If you can't get any financial relief from the camp, check with your employer. Your company may offer flexible spending accounts for dependent care, which typically lets workers set aside up to $5,000 to cover costs such as child care (including day camp, but not sleep-away camps.) Last year, 84 percent of large companies offered the benefit, according to the business consulting firm Mercer.

Lastly, start thinking about next summer. It might seem far off, but camps often offer deep discounts to families that sign up a summer in advance. Early enrollment for the following year can begin just a week or two into a session.

Of course, you should wait and see how your child takes to the camp before committing to another year.

To learn more about Swift Nature Camp visit Summer Camp

If you are just starting to look at summer camps and would like more information, please see Summer Camp AdviceSummer Camp Discounts - 30224

About the Author:

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the Directors of Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, traditional Science Camp in the Midwest. Boys and Girls ages 6-15 enjoy playing in nature, caring for animals, and learning science along with Traditional camping activities. Learn more at Sleepaway Summer Camp

The Magic of the Charm Bracelet

By Josephine Archibald

There is a very long history behind the use of charms and bracelets. Every culture has a different connotation in wearing these.

Tracing back to the time when these pieces of arts were worn on the body was many centuries ago. It was believed that Egyptians were the first to wear these bracelets that had charms as a sign of their devotion. It was supposed that their belief in the afterlife was connected to wearing these charm bracelets, hence, their charm bracelets were about identity, and they believed their gods would be able to identify them with the charm bracelet they wore.

The early Christians though were not indifferent to wearing these bracelets. Although to an entirely different reason, they wore their charm bracelets in forms of fish, and these were for identification. During the Dark Ages, a specific type of fish charm would indicate from what family you belonged to, which really were for political and family namesake reasons. Knights, on the other hand, wore these charm bracelets for protection.

Just when everything seemed to be lost, Queen Victoria from the Great Britain relived the trend. She started showing off golden bracelets with lockets (enclosed are photographs of her family.) This elicited a positive response from the masses and commenced the wearing of charms for aesthetic purposes and not because of superstition.

It was Queen Victoria of Great Britain who reestablished the used of charms and bracelets. She popularized the use of charms with the photograph of her loved ones in it. Because of her, people have been considerably influenced to wear charms as ornaments, not as amulets.

Currently, you can see so many bracelets of different variety being worn by individuals. Men, women, children, working class people, blue-collar, white-collar, grandparents, the list is quite endless, and there really is no age limit or division for the types of people who wear them.

Some give them to others as a sign of their partnership, or friendship. Some wear them to indicate a specific group they belong to. Some wear them with lockets, some instead of images of family members, would have people they idolize, some would have their favorite things, hobbies, a pendant for a book, a tennis racket--so many things that one can have a jeweler create.

Bracelets, charms, people wear them now for their own personal reasons, and similar to history, they could be for posteritys sake, they could be for identification. Why do you wear your bracelet? - 30224

About the Author:

Why not have a look at the lovely Twilight charm bracelet and specifically the Bella Twilight bracelet.

Weekly EPL Soccer Update

By Brandon Lynch

This past week's English Premier League action saw the "big four" all come out on top as the 2 pretenders to their domination were both defeated. Aston Villa moved back to where everybody felt they might be, and Blackburn moved to where everyone thinks they will stay.

The first large derby of the season produced a classic in forward play and a nightmare in defensive play as Manchester United beat Manchester City 4-three with Michael Owen coming up in the 6th minute of injury period to claim the winner after Micah Richards went off on his own rather than staying with his man.

Mark Hughes cried foul, as the 4th referee had initially acknowledged that the game might only have 4 minutes of injury play, 1 minute before City equalized in the last moment, as it turns out, the festivity continued on for one minute.

Moreover, the injury time played is a) at the official's judgment & b) available for both teams. I question if Hughes would give the goal back if it were City that had gotten it?

For absolute entertainment the game was a pleasure to see, a genuine 7 goal cracker.

Defensively the game was a catastrophe.

Shay Given executed 1 of the most awful errors of his career for Fletcher?s first, Rio Ferdinand had an absolute blunder & was the direct reason for two of City?s scores.

While Sir Alex Ferguson will be putting Edwin van der Sar into some form of healing tank to win him back playing as quick as achievable, lets simply proclaim that Ben Foster won?t be Capello?s first pick in South Africa.

Peter Kenyon's leaving from his Lead Executive role at Chelsea comes as no surprise, Eugene Tenenbaum isn?t a devotee of the ex-United manager & he has been operating on borrowed time since Scolari's firing.

There's a heap of in-fighting and back biting in the corners of authority at Chelsea that could threaten to derail all of the team's great work. - 30224

About the Author:

For the best sports forum on the web, soccer trivia questions and more, come to RootZoo Sports.

Dynamics of Speed Reading

By Dr. Jay Polmar

ACCELERATION THROUGH PACING:

Various hand movements can cause acceleration of reading speed. We are about to introduce you to several hand movements that will accelerate your reading ability. Try each one and see which suits you best.

BASIC METHOD:

Pace your eyes so swiftly over a line that you don't have time to form the sounds of the words or syllables in your throat.

The method is easy. You'll replace all your bad habits with one easily learned one: You'll use your pacing hand. Here's how to break each of these habits automatically while increasing your reading speed.

You'll read without sub-vocalizing. You already know the basics: Pace your eyes so swiftly over a line that you don't have time to form the sounds of the words or syllables in your throat.

Now the method to begin pacing across a line faster than you can form the sounds in your throat:

Extend your index finger, close all others. Use you index finger as a beginner Speed reading student and run it under the line of type you are reading..

Extend your index finger, close all others. As you notice I've indicated a hand holding a pencil earlier to use for pacing. That can come later. Use you index finger as a beginner Speed reading student.

You'll be reading twice as fast as you ever have. You'll retain valuable information and increase your comprehension and improve your grades.

Dr. Jay Polmar is the founder of www.speedread.org, and has developed speed reading courses for people worldwide and has taught over 100,000 students throughout the world. - 30224

About the Author:

Study how to be a speed reader, online, with live classes, downloadable programs, audio, video, ebooks or books, by be a speed readering genius Dr. Jay Polmar Study how to be a speed reader , and more Study how to be a speed reader. be a speed readerers Succeed!

Meet the Sixteen Year Old Triple Threat They Call Chani

By Todd Rutherford

Chantel Chani Christie is a recording artist, model, actress and author. Chani is the United States Youth Ambassador for HIV/AIDS Awareness, as well as a YMCA Youth Spokesperson. Hot on the heels of her bestselling debut book, I Want to Live: A Teenagers Guide to Finding Self Love, Chani will release her second book, A Girl Has to Look Good! A beauty, fashion and lifestyle Guide. This teen sensation is just getting started!

With the 2009 Martin Luther King, Jr. Excellence in Hip Hop award already under her belt, she has no plans of reducing speed. She has already garnered much attention in the music industry with her debut album entitled My Dream selling out twice. My Dream is also the work of a number of great producers in the recording industry. Producer Ralph B. Stacy, who has worked with recording superstars Paula Abdul, Pink, Mario, and many more, had this to say about Chani- Chani is a breath of fresh air and a producers dream. [She] is great to work with because of her versatility as a singer. Chanis upcoming, and much anticipated, new single is sure to make her a force to be reckoned with.

Chani, currently a junior in high school, has a passion to lead the youth worldwide by not only educating them about HIV and AIDS, awareness but also through her music and books. Beginning her modeling career at the age of three, Chani has over 100 fashion print and runway appearances to her name. She is currently cast to star in the new screenplay, Proud to be a Colored Girl, an adaptation of the new bestselling book by the same name, and Chani is sure to light up television screens everywhere in this role.

"I feel as though teens will listen to teens. More so than a parent or guardian speaking down to them, teenagers prefer talking, as well as listening, to their peers. I am beyond blessed to be in a position where I can have a platform to speak to the youth and stress the importance of practicing safe sex, although abstinence is key," says Chani, speaking about her ambassadorship as the United States Youth Ambassador on HIV/AIDS awareness. "A lot of times teens fall victim to bad situations that they become involved in, I want to be a positive role model and encourage them to do the right thing. Go to school and finish their education, set goals and aim for the moon. I feel as though the sky is the limit. If you believe in yourself, have faith that you CAN do whatever you put your mind to and have a positive attitude, you can accomplish everything you want, Chani said. Chani Christie is brilliant beyond her years and a role model for youth and adults alike.

I really didn't know what to expect when I read this book and was immediately happy I got it! This 15 year old shares the life issues of our teens better than any book I ever reviewed, a quick and easy read and very entertaining as well. --Laura Johnson (author) - 30224

About the Author:

Find out more about this amazing young woman at her website: Chani Online

The Latest Toy to Sweep the Nation: Elmo's Tickle Hands!

By Emily Donovan

Remember a few years ago when Tickle Me Elmo was the #1 toy on the market? All the malls and toy stores in the country experienced chaos near Christmas time as everyone wanted to grab one for their kids. Ever since then, Elmo?s popularity has gone up and down.

These days Elmo is making a big comeback thanks to the new elbow tickle hands toy. Children are watching the TV commercials in anticipation of getting this great new toy at Christmas. Smaller children really like this new toy. It is made of big furry red hands with a picture of Elmo.

All one has to do is press his nose and the tickling begins! The hands will vibrate and move so that the tickling can commence. Kids can pretend to be Elmo and chase after one another with his tickling hands! They can also give chase to their ticklish parents!

The story also has accompanying DVD's and CD. This new toy can be considered a form of exercise since children will be running around chasing each other. The dancing DVD allows children to groove to the music.

The Tickle Hand Groove is the instructional video that shows kids how to dance using their hands. Fisher Price gives a preview on their official web site. It includes cute songs that your child can listen to and enjoy while there playing with their new toy.

The gloves slide easily on to small hands, and are very comfortable. All your child has to do is press Elmo?s nose up against someone else in order for the furry hands to start vibrating. They can press the nose again if they want to start dancing.

The only downside to buying Elmo's Tickle Hands is that you will hear laughter and dance music all over your house. However if you think that your kids will love this toy, then you should definitely head to the store and purchase it as a big surprise!

All in all, this is a pretty popular toy put out by Fisher Price, and many kids are having a lot of fun with it. If you have trouble finding it at stores and your local mall, you can always order the set online. Some of the top shopping websites sell the complete package, including the DVD?s. - 30224

About the Author:

The Elmo's Tickle Hands toy is going to be a BIG hit this season. My kids saw the delightful TV commercial the other morning and are already asking for it. As an adult, it looks like a ton of fun to me too! With all of the bad stuff in the news, it is great to hear Elmo's adorable laughter in your home.

Ways To Win Love Back With Common Sense

By W.H. Davenport Adams

How to win love back is a topic that I want to talk about today. Too many folks do this all incorrect. They believe that they must aggressively pursue their ex to get him back. in order to get him back. In fact, nothing could be farther from the truth. If you want to know how to win love back, follow the advice as closely as possible.

The first thing you must know in the the way to win love back arena is that you don't wish to chase your ex.

Too many fellows assume they must pursue their ex's. They send hundreds of texts, call at wierd hours of the day, and even stalk their ex fiance's home. They send flowers and gifts.

This is incorrect, incorrect, inaccurate as it makes you look desperate. Women like Alpha males, not sniveling men they suspect are jokes. When you appear desperate, your ex squeeze will start playing head games with you. She'll let you come over, and then invite a new guy over too. She'll pretend she's interested only to go off in another direction.

And, the more you fall into this trap, the more games she'll play. This isn't the answer to the way to win love back.

Instead of chasing her and being desperate, you want to play games with her that make her come crawling to you.

When you are in a group that includes her, flirt with every girl but her. If she has an enemy in the group, pay plenty of attention to that girl. By ignoring your ex, you make her desire to come back to you. You are reminding her of your charms, but not applying them to her.

It's a brilliant idea to go out on a date with one of her close friends. Send your ex a text announcing "now that we're just buddies, I wanted your opinion on something. Where should I take Mary to dinner after the big game?" That is certain to make your ex girlfriend jealous and it's one of the tricks for the way to win love back.

Even if you do not need to play head games with your ex, there is one thing that you can do that will help you in the a way to win love back arena. That is, you should be happy.

Girls like to date happy guys. If you work on you rather than focus on her, you have a much better chance getting at the gym. Hang with your chums. Become involved in a past-time you never had time for when you were dating her. Go out on dates. Even if you have to fake being happy at first, you'll soon notice that you actually are happy.

This way, whether you get the girl back or you move on, you'll be a happier person.

And, that is my recommendation for a way to win love back. - 30224

About the Author:

Want a plan and strategy to get your ex back which reveals psychological tips that work?

Britax Frontier

By Linda Jenkins

The Britax Frontier has to be the easiest booster seat to install and uninstall. This is one of the reasons the Frontier is such a popular car seat. Britax says that a car seat that is easy to install is more likely to be installed correctly. A properly installed car seat is safer and will provide the child better protection. One way the booster seat is easier to install, is the color coded vehicle belt guide.

The Britax Frontier is designed specifically for children two years and up. The safety rating starts at 25 lbs and goes all the way to 100 lbs. Because of this design, the Britax Frontier is the last car seat a child will need. It will last until the child is big enough to use standard seat belts.

Since this car seat is designed for larger children it requires additional safety features not found in many car seats intended for babies or infants. To minimize movement and ensure maximum protection, the Britax Frontier includes several key safety features, such as, HUGS system, Premium Latch Connectors, and Energy Absorbing Versa Tethers.

The Britax Frontier has the HUGS system, which is a n enhancement to the strap harness. It increases the friction on the harness and improves the safety of the car seat even further.

Booster seats are all designed with a slightly smaller base than traditional car seats. This makes them more likely to move from side to side when using a regular seat belt to secure them in place. The Premium LATCH connectors in the Britax Frontier attach the car seat directly to the car. These connectors prevent wobbling or move when proper installed.

Energy Absorbing Versa Tether- In addition to the Premium LATCH Connectors, the Britax Frontier is equipped with an Energy Absorbing Versa Tether. This tether system secures the upper portion of the seat preventing the tipping or tilting effect seen in many car seats during an accident.

The multiple color choices and unique design makes the Britax Frontier an attractive car seat. However, after a few weeks of wear and tear from a confined toddler, any car seat will be covered with crumbs and other messes that can only come from a toddler. To keep this seat looking sharp, Britax included a key comfort feature for the parents, removable, machine washable car seat covers. The cover in the Britax Frontier pops off and can go right into the washer, keeping it as good as new.

With safety, appearance and comfort features abound, it's no wonder the Britax Frontier is one of the most popular booster seats available. This booster seat will keep your child safe. It will last until there's no need for a booster seat. When it's time to pass it down, it can still look as good as new. The only challenge with the Britax Frontier is choosing the color that will best match your car's interior. - 30224

About the Author:

If you've enjoyed all the exciting information you read here about the Frontier Car Seat, you'll love everything else you find at Britax Frontier Sale.

Finding The Right Private School In Boulder, CO: The Top 10 Questions To Ask The Schools

By Tamara Andreas

If you are considering private schools for your child's education, it's important to make a good decision. We've recently chosen amongst the private schools available in Boulder County, Colorado, for our child. Having talked with other parents, and school staff, it turns out there are certain things that most parents want to know. What do parents ask to make a decision they'll be happy with?

Top 10 Questions Parents Ask to Choose a Private School

1. What approach does the school take to creating a safe environment? This isn't the same world it was when we grew up, and sadly, we can no longer assume a school is safe place for children. You probably would like to ask what the school does to keep children safe from violence, drugs, and unsavory influences.

2. What basic philosophy/theology does the school espouse? Private schools may or may not be based on a particular educational philosophy, and they also may have a particular theological orientation. So, you'll want to know what the schools philosophy is, and how it effects the child's experience in the classroom. As an example, some religious private schools teach their religious beliefs to the children, in subtle ways or not-so-subtle. Other schools impart a more broad-based sense of spirituality, and still others avoid the subject altogether.

3. What qualifications are held by the teaching staff? Depending on state laws, private schools may be allowed to employ teachers with different degrees or certifications than those in the public schools. Some private schools require more training for their teachers than public schools, and some accept less.

4. What is the class size? The number of students per teacher can make a significant difference in how much individual attention a child is able to receive.

5. What is the schedule for a typical school day (begin and end, lunch, snack, recess, after school offerings, etc.)? Of course, you'll need to know when to drop off and pick up your child. You might also be interested in the rhythm of the school day, and whether you think it is a good fit for your child.

6. Do parents have a chance to be involved with the school? Participating in school functions can give you a better sense of what your child experiences at school, and it helps your child have a bridge between his family life and his school life. In addition, it can be rewarding and fun to help create the school experience.

7. How do your teachers help children learn who have varied learning styles? Every child is a unique individual. How does the school approach different learning styles so that everyone can learn?

8. What does the school do to prepare a child for a broad world out there, with diverse people and viewpoints? Many schools have non-discrimination policies, and some school philosophies expressly embrace diversity.

9. When was the school established? Schools which have been operating longer may have developed a fuller curriculum and more detailed policies, and those which have opened more recently sometimes have smaller class sizes or lower tuition.

10. What will it cost, and are there scholarships? Do you have to pay a big lump sum all at once, or are the payments spread out? Along with the benefits of a private education, it's important to weigh the cost.

After you ask these 10 questions, you will at least have a good start in understand some basic differences between the schools. However, I wouldn't stop with these 10! What educational choice will give him the foundation for living the fullest life, and living up to his potential? I've also made a list of 12 more questions that are more in-depth, to really help figure out which private school in Boulder (or anywhere) could be the best choice for a child. You might think of other questions. If you ask the right questions, you will get the information you need. - 30224

About the Author:

Do you want the best questions to ask Boulder private schools (or private schools in other areas)? Read more from Tamara Andreas at www.privateschoolsboulder.com. Plus, you'll find out about the private school she chose!

Strawberry Shortcake Party Favors are the Perfect End for Your Daughter's Birthday

By Serrana Milligan

Your young daughters party can be made a great success by giving her a Strawberry Shortcake birthday party. Each one of your guest will enjoy and love your daughters party when they are treated to Strawberry Shortcake Party Favors which are given to express your gratitude to them for attending the party.

A small gift of appreciation will be adored by all your daughters guests. The custom of giving party favors is also prevalent in marriage parties, baby showers, and Christmas parties.

Party favors for a kids birthday party need not be expensive. A small Strawberry Shortcake Party favor box usually comes filled with small things that girls like to wear; like a pink bucket, a heart necklace, gem earrings, soft plastic ring, a blow out and sticker sheets of the little princesses.

The little red head Strawberry Shortcake character Raspberry Tart, along with her fruity friends, is a perfect theme for your young daughters birthday party. Strawberry Shortcake is an innocent, fun loving little girl who along with her cat Custard, always smell of sweet aromas of strawberries and fruits.

Decorating for the party is made very easy with strawberry and pink colors being the theme of the room. As Strawberries is the main theme, so make sure there are plenty of strawberries for the guests to eat. Whip cream too!! Your daughter can dress up with colorful clothes like, a striped T-shirt, jeans, and along with a big playful hat. Your daughters hair can be done in curls just like Raspberrys or if she would like to be a princess Strawberry Shortcake, she can easily wear a pink dress.

Give the kids birthday party favors to guests so that they can enjoy wearing their heart necklaces, gem earrings, plastic rings and then pretend they are princesses too. And lots of fun and noise will be heard from the young guests when they get their party blowouts and run around pretending they are characters from that popular television show.

After the party is over, your guest can remember the fun of the party by having the party favors. The cute pink bucket will have many uses in the years to come as your daughters friends fill the bucket with sand or toys. The girls will all love the sticker sheet too, where they can stick the stickers in their bedroom or in a book.

Getting pre filled Strawberry Shortcake Party Favors have made life so easy and tension free for the parents and your guests will certainly remember their little gift for many, many years to come. - 30224

About the Author:

Birthday party favors for kids are a perfect way to thank your daughter's young guests for attending her birthday party. Strawberry Shortcake Party Favors given to the guests as they leave, will ensure all the girls remember this great party.

Ten Questions in Selecting a Illinois Summer Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

So you are thinking about a Illinois Summer Camp for your child. GREAT! Here are the top 10 questions to ask a summer camp director. This list was compiled by the .American Camp Association

What's the camp's Purpose? Is it Sports? Is it Traditional? Os it Science? Are you comfortable with this ? Is it a good fit for your child? Is competition or cooperation emphasized? Do you want religious observances or practices? Try to understand all parts of the program

What does camp do with staff? First aid training? Drug Testing? Do counselors have criminal background checks? What's the training all about?

What about return rates? How many counselors are returning this year? How many campers are returning? ask the director why? Still looking for that perfect camp Check out this Summer Camps Illinois

What's the ratio of counselors to campers? ACA guidelines for overnight camps call for a 1:6 ratio for ages 7 and 8, 1:8 for ages 9-14; and 1:10 for ages 15-18. Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18.

How old are the counselors? The ACA recommends that 80 percent of the staff be 18 or older and that all staffers be at least 16 and a minimum of two years older than the campers they supervise.

Is a Nurse at hand? The ACA recommends that an sleepaway camps have a physician or nurse on the site daily. If your camper has medications, food allergies or a medical condition, be sure you ask all your questions and are comfortable.

How does the camp Punish campers? Know what your summer camp's rules and regulations. Be sure they match yur parental thoughts. Know what breaches would send a camper home.

What does a typical daily schedule look like? This will help you decide if your child will be happy with the level of physical activity or the amount of time devoted to arts and crafts. Ask how much freedom a child has to choose activities.

Will the camp be transporting the children? What vehicles are used and how often are they inspected? Who drives them and what training do drivers have?

Get References and more References, Get the names of parents with children who have attended the camp. They will tell you what makes camp so special and why they want to return.

If you are still looking for that perfect camp Check out this Summer Camps

Still need a resource to help you figure out all about summer camps? Try Selecting a Camp - 30224

About the Author:

About the authors: Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, traditional coed Overnight Summer Camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals and science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in programs for the first time camper as well as adventures for teens. Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz have been the owners since 1996. Summer Camp Illinois

Ensuring School Success for Your Child

By Lori Radun

It doesnt matter whether you are sending your child off to college for the first time, or your two year old is starting a two-day preschool program, a new school year is just around the corner. Some children love school, while others dread it. Growing up, I was one of those weird kids that loved school. Every year at about this time, my mother would take me school shopping for new clothes and school supplies. I dont know if it was the shopping I loved, or the anticipation of a new school year.

Education is an important value in our home. For my boys, I model and teach good success habits so they can be successful in school. With these ideas, your children can be well on their way to experiencing a successful school year.

Develop and Follow Morning, After School and Bedtime Routines

Morning, after school and bedtime routines provide consistency and structure for a child. They help children stay organized and instill good lifestyle habits. Post routines for your children outlining each specific step you want them to take. Be consistent and help your children practice these routines. When my older son Kai was diagnosed with ADHD in 3rd grade, routines kept him organized and contributed greatly to his success in school.

Teach Your Children How to Set Goals

Once you believe your children are old enough to understand, begin teaching them how to set goals. With children under age 12, keep it simple. Ask them to set one academic goal and one behavioral goal. For example, I will allow plenty of time to work on projects instead of procrastinating. Behavioral goals can include showing more respect, getting along with brothers or sisters, or doing chores on time. After age 12, show your children how to set bigger goals that require more action steps, or encourage them to set three or four goals each year. Have fun with your children creating a colorful goals sheet or vision board so they can be reminded of their goals.

Communicate Often with Your Children and Teachers

Communication with your child and his teachers is critical to your childs success. Last school year was not an easy one for my younger son. We were in constant communication with his teacher, working together to shape his character in and out of school. Some children will voluntarily share whats on their mind, but many children internalize their experiences and feelings. Learn to ask them open ended questions instead of closed ended questions like How was school? Questions that can be easily answered with yes, no or fine dont allow us to get inside our childs world. Keep yourself emotionally available and non-judgmental so your children feel comfortable sharing. Ive always found children are more prone to share at bedtime and during active playtime.

Help Your Child Identify His Interests and Talents

Every child is unique. While some thrive in sports, others are more prone to musical, academic or artistic abilities. Pay attention to what gives your children energy, and what activities they naturally gravitate towards. Nurture those interests and talents so they feel confident about being good in something. Help them to define who they are and what makes them special. There is so much competition and comparisons in schools today. Steer your children away from comparing themselves to others, and instead encourage them to compete with their own personal best. For example, when I took my son and a friend bowling, we didnt compete against each other. In the second game, we tried to beat our score from the first game.

Keep Your Child's Stress to a Minimum

Stress is all around us, and children are not immune to it. Children deal with their own stress: peer pressure or school bullies, intense sports competition, and academic struggles. Stay tuned in to what could be causing stress for your child. It's never too early to learn stress management techniques. In our home, we regularly work with our seven year old, teaching him how to plan better, control negative thinking, or combat fears and anxieties. Keep the family calendar balanced by minimizing after school and evening activities. Take care of yourself and your family by modeling healthy eating, exercise and proper sleep.

As my youngest enters the second grade, and my eldest begins his first year in college, I am anticipating a successful school year. With these tips, you and your children can look forward to and celebrate success as they enter a new school year. - 30224

About the Author:

Lori Radun is the author of The Momnificent! Life ~ Healthy and Balanced Living for Busy Moms and founder of Momnificent!, the home of Momnificent! University. For parenting courses and loads of free articles for moms, please visit Momnificent!, the leading coaching website for moms.

Bakugan Battle Pack - Top Selling Toy

By Joel Fleishman

Bakugan Battle Brawlers are sure to be one of the top selling toys this Christmas. The name Bakugan comes from the Japanese words "baku", meaning "to explode," and "gan", meaning "sphere." Bakugan Battle Brawlers is a combination of strategic marble and card play.

If you want to get started in playing Bakugan, you should purchase the Bakugan Battle Pack, which contains everything you need to play. The battle packs are available in various colors, and each of them comes with a number of Bakugan.

Bakugan was developed by Sega Toys and Speen Master, and first released in Japan. It was very successful there and in Canada, and now that it's been released in the United States, it continues to be just as successful! In fact, many people who enjoy the game are joining leagues to play Bakugan in tournaments.

The Background: Bakugan Battle Brawlers is based on the hugely popular children anime TV show Bakugan Battle Brawlers which debuted in Japan in 2007. It began in the States on The Cartoon Network on February 2008.

The game contains its own set of detailed instructions so that your children can follow it if they are playing this game for the first time. However, if they are not familiar with other types of car games before playing the Bakugan Battle pack they might need your help in understanding the rules and tricks of the game completely, in the beginning. However, once they are hooked onto it, they can spend hours playing with this incredible product.

A Must-Have Toy For This Christmas The Bakugan warriors come in many colors and varieties that make them ideal for collection and trade. Most of them are pocket-sized and easy for your child to take over to their friends' houses for fun battles! - 30224

About the Author:

For the most up to date information about Buy bakugan battle pack, This is the only resource you will ever need Buy bakugan battle pack

Three Things to Look at When Selecting a Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

Clearly, none of the CHILDREN'S SUMMER CAMPS meets the needs of every children. Therefore you must do some research to find the right summer camp for your child. Much of this research can be done right from your computer. Here is a list that will assist you to find the best summer camp.

Camp Size
The level of program organization will determine the extent that the size of a camp matters. While you don't want a camp that is so small that your child is limited in activities or friends, you also don't want a program where your child is lost in the shuffle. The issue is not only numbers, but more importantly, how the camp breaks down the campers into manageable groups. Too small a camp can mean cliques can form, leaving children out, while a large camp may be intimidating to a first time camper. When a program is too large, it becomes harder for the camp to offer all-inclusive activities, like campfires and cookouts. These circumstances make it difficult to build a sense of camp unity and spirit. Also, in a smaller camp you tend to know the Director more closely and feel comfortable asking question or just calling to see how your camper is doing.

Session Length: Full Summer or Less
When looking at camps, you want to know how long most of the children stay. You may prefer a full summer program, lasting seven or eight weeks, or, for family or budget considerations, you may desire a shorter program. Some camps run sessions of varying lengths, from a minimum of one week to a range of varying combinations. Some camps offer only a full-summer program. Some advantages to a full summer program include:
* All campers come and go at the same time. It can be a problem if your child has made a good friend at camp, who leaves after two weeks, while your youngster is staying for another six weeks. Furthermore, all the campers are going through the emotional adjustment to camp at the same time.
* All campers get the same program. It can be disappointing if your child is staying for the first month of camp, and color war, often the highlight of the experience, isn't held until the second half of the summer.
* The campers have time to build relationships and to sample the wide variety of activities offered.
Many families prefer a shorter experience for their child. The child may not be ready for a longer program, they want time for a family vacation, or a longer program doesn't fit into the family budget. It is important to note that shorter sessions do not reduce Homesickness, it often causes a camper to just get stuck, counting the days till Mom comes to save them. Often session lengths differ from coast to coast. Whereas camps on the east coast tend to have longer session lengths, west coast camps seem to favor shorter sessions, with options to combine sessions to stay longer.

Camp Adjustment
Especially if it is your camper's first time at a sleepaway camp, you will want to know how the staff handles the adjustment to camp. How is loneliness and homesickness handled? Inquire about the camp policy on telephone contact. Some camps prohibit all calls for campers, others permit calls after a week at camp, while others have unlimited access. Others may allow calls only on birthdays or during visiting days if parents can't come to camp. Ask about visiting days and the program during those days. Are siblings allowed to visit? Can campers leave camp?

Please take the time to pick the right summer camp for your child. Talk to the director, get reference and be sure to have your child involved in the selection process. Need more help how to choose the best find Summer Camps for your needs visit Summer Camp Advice website - 30224

About the Author:

Want to find out more about Summer Camps, then visit Lonnie Lorenz's site on how to choose the best Kids Summer Camps for your needs.

he Road to Becoming a Psychologist

By Maria Bascuas

Psychology is among the most respected, rewarding professions in the world. A helping profession, it offers a good salary, social prestige, and the emotional reward of providing aid to those in need and pain. How do you become a psychologist? It's not a hat trick: you can't just pull the career out of your hat like a rabbit.

Psychologists begin by getting a good education at a four year college or university. There are a number of specializations possible. You can specialize in psychology from your freshman year on, or in related fields: sociology and anthropology can make very good foundations for later work in psychology. However many students minor in psychology while focusing on getting a good, broad humanities education. The vital issue is to do well, get good grades, and provide yourself with a solid understanding of human interactions and relations.

When you have a degree you want to then choose a grad school. There are many choices available to you. Most universities will offer psychological counseling degrees, as will specialized institutes of psychology. There are even programs online, offering a range of possible degrees and specializations. Be sure to check that any place you sign up with is credentialed, accepted throughout the U.S., and is respected in the field. There are a number of scams out there, so watch out. Look for a rigorous program with fully laid out steps and a strong testing ethic.

Do you want to be a practicing counselor, or an academic with psychological training? A manager for a human resources department, or a steady guide to addicts or trauma victims? There are many forms of psychological training, and before you start your graduate work you must take the time to learn the nature of the many programs and specializations. A poor choice now can doom your plans for decades to come. Clinical psychiatry takes many forms, but most involve actual practice. There are many degrees of a more academic nature, though. Be sure you know what you are signing up for.

Along with the academic work to get your degree, you will also be expected to serve an internship or practicum. In some instances the venue for this work will be provided by the school. However many schools will expect you to find your own opportunity to serve a practicum. Likely sources of internship are schools (as counselors), hospitals, and social services departments. Your school will have to right to approve or disapprove the internship you find, and you will have to serve the full hours required by your degree to be granted your diploma.

When you have completed grad school you will still have to go through the formal licensing process for your region. To determine if your degrees and practicum are sufficient, or if your district will require further testing and internship you should contact your local Psychological Licensing Board, most often through your State Licensing Department. If you have completed the coursework at a good graduate school and have also completed your practicum hours there will seldom be a major remaining component: there may be a standardized test, or a minor additional internship, and there will certainly be some red tape. But your degree and internship should have fulfilled the major required details. - 30224

About the Author:

Maria Bascuas is an educator and journalist who writes about online education and online degrees.

How To Make Tyco RC Cars At Home

By Ferdinand Emy

Tyco RC cars are a good number of the most known RC cars today. Tyco is considered to be one of the major manufacturers of RC cars. Tyco is a division of the Mattel toy company. When chewing over the purchase of RC cars it is crucial to bear in mind that there are toy grade RC cars and hobby grade RC cars.

Tyco RC cars fall into the category of toy grade RC cars. While they are exceedingly popular with kids they aren't in point of fact meant for the modifications that more often than not take place with hobby grade RC cars. Compared to a good number of hobby grade RC cars, they are usually less overpriced.

Tyco RC cars feature many distinct lines, all of which have become exceedingly known. Some of the most known of these lines include the 6V RC cars, West Coast Customs and Drop stars.

The 6V RC cars created by Tyco are proposed for children as young as age five. These cars are 1/16 scale cars and represent both sports cars also as rally cars. They may be found in numerous various colors and with a wide diversity of detailing.

The Tyco Drift Kings are another known RC car made. These cars are recommended for children as young as age 9. The Drift Kings include specialized drift tires as well as street tires that can be transformed out. These cars are slightly larger in scale than other cars. They feature 4-wheel drive, speed control and likewise have a 7.2V rechargeable battery pack.

Drop stars are 1/18 scale. They likewise include a number of characteristics that have been them tremendously appealing with kids including taillights, headlights and wheels that really light up. Some models of these Tyco RC cars likewise include a media hook-up also as speakers.

West Coast Customs are 1/18 scale also and operate utilizing a rechargeable battery. They are put forward for ages five and up. Like other Tyco RC cars they have become extremely popular as well.

Tyco RC cars have likewise created a number of other models over the years that have gone on to become exceedingly popular. Some older Tyco RC cars are so renowned that they have become collector's items. These older Tyco RC cars some times turn up at auctions also as at hobby shops for those who want to add them to their collection or who are interested in possibly trying to retrofit them. - 30224

About the Author:

Ferdinand is the author of Introduction To RC Cars, learn How To Make A Electric RC Car Go Faster today, come and we will even show you how to build different RC cars at home

How to flirt - Guide On How To Talk To Girls

By Adela Thomas

If you talk to the average frustrated chump, he will complain about why he's not successful and make all sorts of excuses. Unfortunately, no one can help this person. Fortunately, there are millions of people who actually ask questions regularly, and these people know what they want to have answered. Here's a few common question that guys ask.

How do I talk to girls?

The answer to his is simple, open your mouth and produce meaningful sound. Of course, if you don't want the smart remark, you'll want to be more specific about your question. If you want to talk to a girl like a friend, you need to learn to talk to her like a friend. Most people already know how to do this, because guys know how to talk to someone as a friend. Many problems guys have is they act like they'll be nice and be a friend, and girls will see them as the friend type. The problem is actually talking to girls as if they are someone who is more than a friend.

However, there are some that won't even approach a girl because they "don't know what to say" if you have troubles thinking of what to say at all, you just need to try saying whatever comes to mind. Even if you say something stupid, it will sound better then complete silence, and you will stand out. The thing is, girls usually like to do a lot of the talking. So if you approach them and say "what's up, how's it going, what have you been up to? r "Hey, you're cute, what's your name", or "You seem like an interesting person and I wanted to get to know you, tell me something about yourself". Put them in position to do the talking, ask them what they like to do. If they respond with a quick answer, try asking a few more questions. If you ask them to tell you something they do for fun, and all they respond is "running", say "yeah, you know, I like running (or I'm laid back and don't like running, but imagine how it must be exciting), but I also like (insert hobby) because it makes me feel (insert feeling and detail of when you feel that way), does running make you feel the same way like that?

Start out with asking a question, repeat what they told you, tell them how you feel about it, find something else that makes you feel in what may be comparable, tell them something about it, and ask them if what they said makes them feel the same way. Direct the questions in a way that gets her talking about things that she enjoys and that makes her feel good just thinking about them. If you do this, she will associate the good feelings with you.

Another question people ask is "How do I flirt with girls"?

The above form of asking and responding can be a mild form of flirting. The trick is to use the right tonality of your voice, and to speak while using the right body language. If she says something that excites you, lick your lip and say "mmm.. sounds like fun" and nod and proceed to tell her how you could imagine how it must feel. When using your hands while talking and relating her likes to something you like to do, use your hands to gesture towards her, and towards you. Most communication is non verbal, learn how to communicate with body language in a calm confident manner, and it will be much easier to flirt.

Teasing women in a playful way can be easy if you know what you are doing. Using a special trick is a very big key in flirting with women, but this would take an entirely new article or guide on how to flirt with girls.

Actually, there's an entire method of approaching women, eliciting their feelings of attraction, getting feedback on whether their interested, talking with them, flirting, picking up, and seducing women, known as the Mystery Method that you can learn about now. - 30224

About the Author:

You can learn more about Erik Von Markovik at the Mind of Mystery | Mystery Method blog.

A Guide For Parents Fighting Constipation Toddler Issues

By Amy Gibson

One of the most frustrating problems a parent needs to deal with is constipation toddler problems. Constipation pain with toddlers can be brought back to four reasons:

* Consuming food that don't contain enough fibers * Drinking more milk than the recommended daily amount (12-16 oz.) * Not drinking enough water * Waiting to long to go to the bathroom, or ignoring it all together

And here's the kicker. Once you start recognizing the constipation symptoms your child suffers, you'll also start noticing that they are holding bowel movements. The reason being is that their stools have become hard and painful and they end up holding it in to avoid the pain.

You want to learn what constipation treatment will help your toddler regain soft comfortable stools again? Stay with me and read on.

First of all you should start focusing on what your toddler is eating and drinking during the day.

What do I mean:

1. Juice, milk and water - make sure you are giving your toddler enough. Dehydration will make stools harder, especially during hot weather.

The best way to check if your toddler has enough to drink is checking how often it urinates. If your child goes to the toilet at least once every three hours you're good.

2. Fibers are essential to prevent constipation. Fresh fruit and vegetables are high in fiber. Give your toddler at least 3 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit every day.

Do you have a picky eater in your house? Try to feed him breakfast bars and cereals that are high in fiber. Also apples, bananas and peanut butter can help when treating constipation toddler issues.

Also, to help stools absorb more water, you can give your child supplemental fiber such as Metamucil that allows fecal matter to flow gently through the colon.

3. You could give your child 2 tsps of vegetable oil every day. This will add a coating to the stool which helps it slide through the intestines much easier.

Increase by 1tsp every other day until your childs stool is soft and the rectum has healed. Understand that mineral oil will taste disgusting to your child, so mix it with a shake, juice, ice cream or even Jell-O.

4. Get into the routine of having your child sit on the toilet for 5 to 10 minutes after eating. Its important that your child get out of the habit of resisting the urge to go to the bathroom due to the pain. This only makes stools harder.

When you follow these guidelines you wont have to battle with constipation toddler issues for much longer. More fiber, avoid dehydration, mineral oil and setting a new bathroom routine are all you may need to give your child a sense of relief and comfort. - 30224

About the Author:

Make sure to visit my blog http://www.constipation-remedies.net for helpful tips and advice on Constipation Remedies and much more!

Secrets About Giving

By Masami Sato

Here is the secret to get what one wants. It is just giving. The reasons for it are based on the well-known philosophical dictum "Which comes first, the chicken or the egg?" The egg, and the chicken that is born out of it, create the circle of life, and form the basis for a profound comparison for attaining and giving what one wants: the circle of joy. This brilliant concept is analyzed in the clear voice and lucid prose of Masami Sato, the author of the book named ONE.

As human beings, most of us have yearnings for different kinds of things. And of course, the fundamental principles of economics tell us that while needs are unlimited, resources are not. This makes us think that the more resources we have, the more yearnings we would be able to satisfy. As such we tend to safeguard our resources. We would then feel that giving away these resources or splitting it between many would lessen the portion that can be used to get what we desire. This is the conventional win-lose strategy that is being played out.

Is this true, then?

And if the answer is "no" what then? What if it actually goes against the secret of getting more? What if the secret to earn more is simple - just by managing to give more?

One can get something just by giving something else. Exactly the way one can have eggs by raising chickens. As simple as that. Normal. Automatic. And it is a completely joyful experience.

First, let us start with a small comparison to explain things.

Chicken and Egg: the Cosmic Circle of Life

Philosophers have asked this question since the dawn of time, "Which comes first, the chicken or the egg?"

The answer to this endless discussion is simple: It actually doesn't matter because both chickens and eggs are here now. But if we want to have more great outcomes, we can choose to start somewhere.

Giving and Receiving: the Cycle of Joy

What if we asked the question in a different manner? "Which comes first, giving or receiving?"

Again, if we want to have greater results, we can choose to start somewhere. Giving something to others is surely so much easier than trying to get it first!

What happens if we are trying to get it first?

If we hope to have something, surely we would try to acquire it. And once we get it, we would cling on to it. This is surely natural - it makes sense rationally.

But the actual result of 'trying to get' is mostly not ample and actual long term benefits.

For example, hoping to see others happy is not at all about deriving joy from them, or manipulating them to become happy. It is about how much happiness we can give them and thereby share with them. Full stop.

So where do we start to get what we want?

By starting from the other end of the circle- by giving generously!

When we give first before we actually fully have what we really want - what we dream of - we send a very powerful message to ourselves that says, "there is enough, and more will come". It allows us to experience the joy today - the joy of giving.

We only need to give out the love generously to others. It simply comes back to us. Giving love is the only way to be generously loved. When we acknowledge everyone for the great things they do and the great qualities they have, again it comes back to us. Others acknowledge us because we acknowledge them.

In the same manner, if we want to have plenty in our life materially, financially, and mentally, we have to share in full measure with others, what we want.

Some people may choose to give materially by giving their time. Others would choose to give financially by giving their wealth. Those who give much more (like time, wealth, kindness, affection, principles etc.) have more of all these because it is the balance. And balance is the law of nature.

Just keep in mind the rule of the game

Rule one: never hope to get anything in return when a thing is given.

When we have the anticipation that giving involves 'getting' something back, we become unhappy when we do not see the thing returning to us fast. We may even feel unhappy towards the one who gets the gift. And having a negative feeling for someone is definitely not a right state of affairs! So we can know the real pleasure of giving when we are doing it with the awareness that we are actually doing it for ourselves - we are doing it for our own pleasure!

Losing to win, giving to get..

It may initially feel like we are losing out. Yet at some level we know that getting without giving is not a sustainable life model. And we've known that from the very beginning. That's why tithing has been such a natural part of the lives of many successful people. And they didn't always do it publicly so it wasn't done to gain a better reputation. It was just because that was the way it was.

Take a look around. 'Simpler' living things do it naturally. The bumblebees pollinate the flowers as they receive the honey so more flowers bloom in abundance. Naturally. That's the game. They do not do it for conscience or justice. That is why they create such sustainability without even trying.

Giving to another is just a role of who we are, it is the same as having; nothing more, nothing less. No confusion, no strings attached, just letting go easily.

The real secret of getting more can be summarised in two steps: Give first, and do not expect anything in return.

When we let go and give open-handedly, what we require would come to us. On its own. - 30224

About the Author:

Discover more about how Buy1GIVE1 (BOGO) can transform your business using Cause Marketing.

A Beautiful White Bunk Bed!

By Delma Stewart

Are you looking for that perfect accent for your spare bedroom or your child's room? A perfect choice is the white bunk bed. A white bunk bed is very versatile. It can fit into almost any room decor.

If you are a large family with a limited amount of space in the bedrooms, a bunk bed may be the answer for the kids. If your children are sharing a room, why not give them more living space in their bedroom by stacking their beds. Using a bunk bed for a room where two people are sharing allows more walking space and more room for dressers and toys.

The great thing about a white bunk bed is that it can be used in a room that is meant for a boy or girl. White is a neutral color. You can dress up a white bunk bed with stick on flowers or painted on rainbows for the little girl's room.

You can do the same with decorations for a boy's room. The boy's bed could have foot ball decals or baseball bats and gloves. Maybe even dinosaurs or bugs!

If you do not have children at home any more, a white bunk bed can come in very handy when the grandchildren come over to spend the night. Many children find it very exciting to sleep on the top bunk of the bunk bed. They will feel like they are on an adventure in the sky. You might have trouble deciding which child gets to sleep on the top bunk!

A white bunk bed also looks great in a more adult decorated room. For example, a beautiful Victorian room will look a lot better with a white bunk bed as the focal point. You can loosely drape some burgundy scarves in and out of the sides of the bed. It will make the room look that much more beautiful.

A black and white room is a very stylish room as well. Imagine the white bunk bed with black and white bedding. Imagine a black area rug and beautiful, soft black shears covering the windows. For a very reasonable price you can have all of your favorite pictures printed in black and white and hang them strategically around the room. The look will be different but sophisticated.

A white bunk bed is a very versatile piece of furniture. No matter what type decoration you would like to put in the room, this bed will look wonderful. The space it will save in the room is an added bonus to its beauty. - 30224

About the Author:

More about the writer: Delma Stewart writes for an interiors magazine and reccommends a white bunk bed. She advises buyers on the latest white bunk beds available.

Got Birth Plans?

By Anna Snyder

So, the baby is coming soon. Have you decided whether you are going to have an epidural or not? Have you decided what was going to happen? Sometimes we are ready, but sometimes things are no longer in our control.

Most of us are quite sure that we are going to have a "natural" birth, including drug free. Others opt for the medications that make us comfortable. This quite often depends on our pain tolerance. There is no shame in having medication to help us through this time. Because of all the research that has been happening over all these years, child birth is no longer a horrible experience with tons of pain. We now have options at our finger tips.

There is some exceptions to the rule in regards to pain medication. Some women are terrified of needles, or just want to have the least invasive birth possible. There are other options for them in this case (e.g. laughing gas). Some women just have no choice because of technical difficulties, and others just want to be comfortable.

What ceases to amaze me is that now we do have a choice whether we would like natural or a C-section, and it doesn't even have to depend on the circumstances. What is even stranger is the fact that some women even opt for the C-section because they want to avoid the pain of childbirth. So, you avoid the pain of birthing, but what about the incision that you have to deal with afterwords? And have you thought about the pain with that as well? Major surgery can be pretty painful.

For the epidural, have you thought of the complications that could happen during and throughout this? I guess as women, we don't think of the implications, we just want the quick fix. I won't scare you with the details of my experience, just be careful.

I have experienced both natural birth and C-section, and let me tell you, I would rather pick the natural birth, no matter the tons of complications that went with it. The recovery afterwords is so much easier and quick compared to the slow recovery of the C-section. After a Cesarean (since the major muscle was cut), you can't do abdominal exercises for 6 weeks or longer. That definitely can be a drag. Once again, my experiences with these two are quite grotesque, so I won't scare you with them.

What I am trying to say with this article is: do your research. Don't let other people scare you with their stories (that is why I didn't tell you my stories), but still be open minded to what is available for you. Educate yourself, and your spouse or significant other. Make a plan, and try to stick to it (unless circumstances change it of course). Each experience is unique, so please take it day by day and try to enjoy life. - 30224

About the Author:

Anna Snyder is a loving young mother of 3 angelic jewels. She loves to learn anything about maternity and pregnancy. She currently owns a online maternity clothing shop so check it out, it is Your one stop online maternity clothing and accessories shop

How to Purchase a Delightful Crib Bedding Set for Your Little One

By Dorothea Frankson

Baby bedding is often the most paramount aspect of buying for your new daughter's room, and the wide range of products will seem overwhelming. You can choose to either take your time shopping for your baby girl by browsing in stores, or simply search online if you find yourself lacking in time.

If you keep a few practical ideas in mind, you will not feel overwhelmed by the vast selection and your search will be over in no time. Just remember, when selecting a crib set for your baby's nursery, style can be your number one concern, but you should also consider functionality, seasonality, and durability.

While there is a great variety of pink patterns available and pink is an easy option for little girls, you will not be alone if you decide to decorate your nursery and a different color. For a baby girl's room, really any light color will work or using a cartoon character theme will allow for plenty of options also.

You can find something for any taste and any budget, but ultimately, your imagination will be your biggest constraint when it comes to decorating your nursery and the accessories you purchase to match it, including your baby bedding for girls.

Consider more than looks when choosing baby bedding because safety is the most important. For a summer baby, a heavy blanket will not be needed and, on the other hand, if your baby was born in the colder months, a warm blanket is really needed.

The type of bed that will be used, be it a traditional crib, a bassinet, or a portable play bed, are factors you need to think about. All the baby's blankets should be used safely and all bottom sheets should be fitted properly. It might seem like quite a bit of information to take in, but it is important that you consider all of these issues when buying the perfect crib bedding. - 30224

About the Author:

Dorothea is a writer and researcher on parenting and family issues. She also works part-time as a freelance writer for a baby products company, Kudlee, Inc..

Razor Kick Scooters

By Owen Jones

The Razor kick scooter is the present-day counterpart of the type of scooter that has been about for 50 years or more. In actuality, kids have almost certainly been fixing boards to wheels ever since scrap wheels became available. As with those classic scooters, the Razor kick scooter is propelled forward by foot power. That is, you put one foot on the board and push forward, or in other words kick back on the ground with the other.

This way of propulsion makes the Razor kick scooter an idyllic mode of transport, training and fun for children of all ages. In fact, Razor do not advocate a Razor kick scooter for the under fives unless supervised and say in their manual:

"Children under age eight (8) should ride with adult supervision at all times. All children and preteens should ride with adult guidance at all times".

This seems pretty strict to me and is almost certainly an instance of over-prudence because of the litigious culture we live in. Just try suggesting to a twelve-year that you have to employ guidance on all of his or her trips!

Having said that the Razor kick scooter comes in approximately seven different guises. There is the Kiddie Kick scooter for the under fives. It is constructed of tough plastic and has a third wheel for added stability.

Then there is the 'A' series of Razor kick scooter: the A, A2, A3 and AW. These models are roughly equal to a child's growth in size, competence and experience, although the maximum recommended weight for all three models of Razor kick scooter is 65 kilos or 143 lbs.

The Razor kick scooter Pro is a leap up in know-how and so has more capabilities. It can be ridden for extreme sport and will carry a rider weighing up to 100 kilos or 220 lbs.

Last, but not least, is the Cruiser Razor kick scooter. It will bear 79 kilos (175 lbs of weight and has larger wheels as it is designed for unhurried cruising about. The larger wheels mean that you won't feel any uneven terrain beneath you while you are on this Razor kick scooter.

All of these Razor kick scooters share similar characteristics. All of these models of the Razor kick scooter are of very robust assembly and all but the Razor Kiddie Kick scooter are manufactured of high-grade aluminium and are built to last.

These Razor kick scooters have extendible steering rods, which means that they can be pulled up to grow with your child or can be shared by children of different sizes. They also share a tough braking system which is operated on the rear wheel, rendering them ultra-safe for operation in the vicinity of pedestrians.

A Razor kick scooter starts at about $40 and so is an economical method for you to ensure that that your child gets regular exercise, gets out from behind his computer, gets some fresh air and sunlight and learns about politeness while having enjoyment being mobile. Apart from all these benefits, a Razor kick scooter will give your child tender reminiscences to look back on for the rest of his or her being. - 30224

About the Author:

If this article has whetted your appetite for a Razor kick scooter, just go to our website at http://razorascooter.com

The Farmer And The Piece Of Straw That Made Him Rich

By Masami Sato

A millionaire created through giving!

There is an old historical Japanese tale about giving and it shows how we can receive the most extraordinary gifts when we're giving and appreciative of what we already have.

Here is the story.

A long time ago, there lived a penniless young farmer. Nothing that he did turned out to be profitable. He was completely impoverished without any money, without anyone to help and nothing to eat. One night, totally at his wit's end, he went to a shrine and sat near the altar and pleaded to Gods to show him what to do.

"I have always been honest and hardworking, but all my hard work never produced any reward for me. What am I doing wrong?"

He fell asleep besides the altar just after having asking his question. In the morning, as he was waking up, he saw one of the Gods in his dream surrounded by a blinding golden light. The God's voice echoed through his mind.

"When you wake up in the morning, cherish what you have in your hand and go on giving it to others liberally as you proceed," the God commanded.

The farmer woke up. He still had many questions jumping through his mind but he lifted himself up and tried to shake off the strangely vivid dream he just had. To his surprise, he saw a piece of straw in his hand. Maybe it was on his clothes after the long day of fieldwork.

He was about to throw the straw away, but remembered what God had told him. Once again he sat down. Then he looked curiously at the bit of straw.

He sat still for a long time thinking what this meant. He had no clue why a piece of straw can be of any value to him. Then he saw a wasp flying around. It eventually landed on the tip of the straw. He caught the wasp and tied it to the straw with a piece of thread from his clothes. Now with a piece of straw with a flying wasp at the end, off he went on the path.

He had only walked for a few minutes before he saw a little boy and his mother coming from the other direction. The boy was crying. As he said hello, the boy noticed the wasp moving on the straw that the farmer was holding. He stopped crying and asked for the straw. The farmer nearly declined but then he remembered about the God's message that he needed to treasure what he had but also remembered that he was to give it away to others. So, he offered the straw to the boy. The mother was very appreciative as now the boy stopped crying and began smiling. The mother offered the farmer three tangerines.

The farmer continued on. And as he walked, he began feeling a little hungry. He thought of eating the tangerines but he reminded himself it was about giving the gift to others, not to himself.

As he went over a steep hill, he saw a merchant sitting down on the ground by a tree. Next to him was a wooden box. The farmer said hello to the merchant. He seemed to be exhausted. The merchant saw the tangerines in the farmer's hand and asked if he minded giving him the tangerines. He said he was so thirsty.

The farmer was also equally thirsty as the day was hot and he had walked pretty long, still he gave all the three tangerines to the trader. The man ate all the three tangerines and felt fully energized. He felt very thankful to the farmer who was so kind. To show his gratitude, he opened the box that he had kept near him. The box contained several bolts of hand dyed silk. The trader took out one roll, gifted it to the farmer and left.

The farmer walked again and continued on the same path. After a while he found a river from which he drank water. He felt recharged. He went forward with more energy and a feeling of ease.

He walked for some more time but did not come across anyone else. He felt that the silk might be that which would bring him something good. So he chose to go to a town in the vicinity and trade the fabric.

But just as he went around the corner, he saw in front of him a band of fighters. One of the fighters who looked liked the head of the band stood near a horse that was lying on the earth. The farmer heard the leader talking to his men.

"It does not appear that this horse would live much. We will have to leave it here. Nurse it well and catch up with me." With this the leader jumped on to another horse and rode off, moving out of people's sight.

The remaining soldiers were left discussing what to do about it. They were reluctant to kill the animal but they did not have much of a choice. At last one of them took out a sword.

The farmer quickly ran over to them and asked them to stop. He said he would like to look after the horse. He also offered the silk fabric to the warriors. They jumped at the offer and took off very quickly.

Now the farmer stood there with a dying horse. He thought he might have made a mistake that after all he was not meant to be wealthy. Then he remembered something. There was the stream he'd just passed.

He made his way to the river and once there stripped off his shirt and dipped it in water to be able to feed the horse. He made his way back to the horse again and fed it by squeezing out the water into its mouth. After the water trickled in for a while, the horse reacted and soon became conscious. The farmer was then able to pull it up and make it stand.

Once the horse could stand, the farmer was able to take it to the river. The horse drank directly from the river and the farmer also led it to the patches of grass nearby. Very soon the animal was rejuvenated.

So now the farmer owned the horse! The man and the animal traveled together, and the farmer had to run as the horse led the way. They traveled together for miles. Finally, as the sun was setting, the horse came to a halt in front of a big house. The animal pushed the farmer towards the gate when he finally drew level with it.

When the farmer moved towards it, the gates opened and an old man came out of the house. The old man had dashed out of the house and he looked wan. He spotted the horse and the farmer, both just in front of the house.

The old man asked the farmer what he was doing. The farmer said he was looking for a place to stay the night. The old man said he was going to the town for an urgent matter. He asked the farmer if he minded looking after his house until he returned. He said he might not be able to come back for a little while.

As the old man seemed to be in a hurry, the farmer offered him the horse. The old man appreciated the generous offer and took off with the horse. As he was leaving, he said something peculiar to the farmer.

"If I am not back in three years, this house becomes yours."

As you possibly deduced, the old man did not come back.

So the farmer lived happily ever after in the old man's big house with kind-hearted neighbours around and a land rich in good crops. He always kept in mind the rule that he should give to others what he had.

I am grateful to you for reading this story. And how did you feel about it?

Maybe there is a key to something. When we can turn our 'getting game' into a 'giving game', our life often flows bringing more abundance. But it is not always easy to practice the old wisdom in our real life.

Given below are the remarkable factors that we can glean from the story:

* When we give the things that others want, they usually value it more than we value it while when we are trying to 'sell' something (because fundamentally, we want to get something from the deal), they compare the value with our asking price and try to pay less.

* When we are not possessive of whatever we have, we will perceive that we thereby have more chances as we can release the existing possessions.

* When we are down and out with the problems of life, instead of worrying about the negativities if we kept focus more on giving others and caring for them, life would surely bring glad tidings later.

* When we try to 'cash in' what we have built up, thinking that "this is the best it gets", because we think we may lose out it if we do not cash in now, our life's growth often ends there. What if instead, we continued to be giving generously no matter what we owned or how physically wealthy we were or were not.

Giving is part of many successful people's lives. When we give first, we have more chance of living a life of magnificence, ease and expansion. - 30224

About the Author:

Discover more about how Buy1GIVE1 (BOGO) can transform your business using Cause Marketing.

Newborn Nursery Bedding Sets Can Be the Most Superb Boon

By Dorothea Frankson

People who wish to give a present that's perfect but a little unusual can find themselves challenged by the task. If you are buying baby bedding to give as a gift, you should not only consider what the new parents like, but what would work for the baby as well. The parents-to-be will most likely be delighted to get an unusual gift among the many that they will receive.

If you recognize this situation, then you might find yourself trying to find a fun and useful gift like a crib set. Choosing from the wide variety of baby bedding sets can be overwhelming for the busy new parents. Be their best friend and hero, and help them with a gift of baby bedding.

If you don't know how the new nursery is decorated, you can still go ahead and take a chance with nursery bedding. These days, it is not uncommon to find couples who are eager to determine the gender of the baby, while in the mothers' womb; as such knowledge has a direct link to guiding them in what they purchase for the "he" or the "she."

Light pastel colors are generally considered to be girl colors while pastel types of blue and green are usually considered appropriate colors for boys; despite this there is no real color for either gender. Yellow can be a good gender-neutral color, and a mix of any colors on the pastel palette will be good for either a boy or a girl.

Baby boy crib bedding sets sets aren't just an unusual gift - they may be a special item that's not in the budget for some new parents. Putting off buying a coordinating designer set for now, their crib and nursery may still be equipped with plenty of covers and blankets. With all of the other necessities that are needed prior to baby's arrival, some corners are cut, and some items are just not part of the splurge.

This can be the perfect opportunity for you to present a gift that is both useful and delightful, and something that will please both the parents and the baby alike. Your time and imagination, when best used, in picking up the perfect nursery set is sure to benefit you with a gift that will last for months together. - 30224

About the Author:

Dorothea is a writer and researcher on parenting and family issues. She also works part-time as a freelance writer for a baby products company, Kudlee, Inc..