A Purchase Guide to Budget Notebooks
by Roberto Sedycias
Since it became commercially available back in the early eighties, notebooks called the attention of computer users because of its small size and portability. Not much of a commercial success back then, it only took a short time before the computer industry improved this item, up to a point that is now considered to be one of the best selling computer consumer products.
For one who intends to buy a budget notebook, he may have some difficulties in picking the right one, since there are several notebook manufactures offering so many models. Budget notebooks are in a class by itself with basic features but capable of delivering full solutions for computer related tasks.
For an easy guide to budget notebooks, check the following major manufactures:
SONY
Sony VAIO notebooks are fashioned products targeted to consumers who demand flexibility and power without compromise. It is expected to find features such as 15.4`` WXGA, duo core processor and 100 gb hard disk. Although not the cheapest of budget notebooks, it compensates the higher price by offering more technological features.
Most common features one can expect from Sony budget notebooks: 1 - Intel Core Duo Processor T2250 1.72 Ghz; 2 - Windows Vista; 3 - 1 gb DDR2 ram; 4 - Widescreen XGA display type; 5 - Intel graphics media accelerator 950; 6 - 100 gb SATA hard disk 5400 rpm; 7 - CD-RW/DVD rom; 8 - wireless lan 802.11 a/b/g; 9 - Modem and Lan port 10/100; 10 - USB connectivity; 11 - It weighs around 6.5 pounds; 12 - Lithium ion battery up to 5.5 hours; 13 - One year limited warranty. Price starts from U$ 929.00 and up according with optional accessories.
DELL
With features such as 15.4`` WXGA, duo core processor and ATI Radeon Xpress graphics, Dell budget notebooks offer a flexible combination of power, mobile productivity and entertainment at a good price.
Most common features one can expect out of these notebooks are: 1 - AMD Turion 62 X2 1.8 ghz/1mb cache processor; 2 - Windows Vista; 3 - 512 mb ram; 4 - Widescreen XGA display type; 5 - ATI Radeon Xpress 256 mb video graphics chipset; 6 - Up to 80 gb hard disk; 7 - CD-RW/DVD rom; 8 - It weighs around 6 pounds; 9 - 9-cell lithium ion battery; 10 - One year limited warranty. Price starts from U$ 549.00 and up according with optional accessories.
TOSHIBA
All Toshiba budget notebooks feature an 15.4`` diagonal WXGA display, DVD optical drive which reads and writes up to 11 formats, high speed wireless lan (802.11 b/g) for easy connection in networks.
Most common features one can expect out of these notebooks are: 1 - Intel Celeron processor with 1+ Ghz; 2 - Windows Vista; 3 - 512 mb ram; 4 - Widescreen XGA display type; 5 - Radeon Xpress 200M video graphics chipset; 6 - 60 gb hard disk; 7 - CD-RW/DVD rom; 8 - wireless lan but no Bluetooth connectivity; 9 - Modem and Lan port 10/100 mbps; 10 - USB and firewire connectivity; 11 - It weighs around 5 pounds; 12 - 4-cell lithium ion battery; 13 - Tv-out s-video; 14 - One year parts and labor warranty. Price starts from U$ 599.00 and up according with optional accessories.
HP
HP Budget notebooks with features such as 15.4`` display screen, AMD Sempron 3500+ and a sophisticated black resin finish, offer an attractive mix of style, mobility and performance.
Expected features one can find in this HP notebook category: 1 - AMD Sempron 3500+; 2 - Windows Vista; 3 - 15.4`` WXGA Widescreen; 3 - 512 mb ddr2; 4 - CD-RW/DVD rom; 4 - Wireless connectivity 802.11b/g wlan; 5 - It weighs around 7 pounds; 6 - Nvidia video graphics chipset with 256 mb; 7 - 6-cell lithium ion battery; 8 - USB, lan and modem port; 9 - Integrated stereo speakers; 10 - 60 gb SATA hard disk; 11 - Tv-out s-video; 12 - One year warranty in parts and labor. Price starts from U$ 569.00 and up according with optional accessories.
A while ago portable electronics devices were a luxury at an expensive price. Nowadays it became an affordable must have kind of product for lots of people. Notebooks are in this category for sure! And basic notebooks are the best option for those who are in a tight budget. So, if portability is a must for your personal or professional computer related tasks, waste no more time. Get yourself a budget notebook!
This article is under GNU FDL license and can be distributed without any previous authorization from the author. However the author�s name and all the URL�s (links) mentioned in the article and biography must be kept.
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This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the News Article section of page http://www.polomercantil.com.br/notebook.php
Forex: The Keep It Simple Stupid Guide
Forex: The Keep It Simple Stupid Guide
by Jim Wilson
A wonderful way to diversify your investment portfolio is to learn forex trading. Many new investors have discovered the world of foreign exchange trading to be an exciting new challenge. One that is filled with rewards that are beyond what they were achieving as stock traders. Currency forex trading is a great way to branch out into new investments. Experience a completely new world of investing by stepping outside of the chaotic domestic economy.
The unique thing about the forex market is that it never closes, if you feel like trading at 2am it's not a problem. Unlike with other markets, such as the stock exchange, you can continue dealing with the currency trading market without worries over it closing at the end of the day. Websites give you 24-hour access to monitor what has been happening in the world currency markets at anytime. Through these sites you are able to learn all the basics about the market.
The websites will include tools and tips to guide you through the beginning steps of trading. This is a clear advantage because you can hone your trading skills before laying down your own money in the market.
When you think of it, the forex firms are training you to become skilled at trading for free by providing guidance, demos and news at no additonal cost. In a short while you will start feeling confident in trading and investing in forex. It only takes about $300 to start getting some good returns.
Learning forex does not require that you have a degree in economics or that you study the markets for years. The forex trading websites have made it easier for you to become successful. Forex brokers will give you access to the market for your currency trading.
Just like stock brokers, they can provide you accurate information and advice on how to deal with Forex trading strategies. Advice includes all the aspects of the Forex trading market which extends to research approaches and technical analysis to improve the member�s trading performance. Naturally, because this market has apparently been providing a great return on investment, large financial institutions have been proactively monopolizing the market.
However, with the trading firms, small-time individuals also have the opportunity to earn money through Forex trading brokers. As I mentioned earlier, the online firms have been providing powerful website tools to become familiar with the whole idea of the currency market.
Your choice of Forex trading broker will largely depend on your need in the trading market. Many brokerage sites will provide trading simulators and expert advice as well as research and analysis designed for first time traders. Furthermore, these websites typically provide experienced online Forex traders who offer in-depth advice to forex traders of all levels. All of these tools are available to beginners to try out.
You really can earn money by taking the time to learn forex trading. The availability of investment simulators and 24-hour customer support enables new investors to learn quickly. Not only can you be trading in no time, you will also be showing a tidy profit. Start researching forex trading. You might be shocked to see how many large companies are involved.
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Choosing A Bike To Buy For The Growing Children
Choosing A Bike To Buy For The Growing Children
by Smitha Sanyal
Growing children at the age of 2-4 years can move on to their own appropriately sized bikes. These children can be trained to pedaling, steering, braking and sitting on a saddle. Mostly kids try a two-wheeler with training wheels around the age of 3 years.
Between the ages of 4 to 8 years most of children develop their physical ability, good balance master starting and stopping on a tricycle or training wheels and learn to ride. Along with physical skills it also takes mental readiness and motivation to learn to ride. Some kids don't develop this until they are 10 or more years old. Interest and readiness to learn to ride a bike can manifests itself as questions about bicycles, a desire to ride with friends, talk about tricycles and training wheels as things for "babies," etc.
Guide to Children's Size Bikes: Children's bike sizes are determine by the diameter wheel, not the height of seat and size of frame. After kids� grownup children's bikes they'll move into small-framed adult bikes with 26 inch, 27 inch or 700c wheels, which are sized by the length of the seat tube.
Children under the age of 12 years going alone on a tri-cycle or bicycle have a very limited range and don't get as much pleasure from simply cycling. If you want to have a family outing with more cycling, as you child outgrows their child seat (age 3) or trailer (age 4), there are a couple of options to consider: tandems with kid-kits on the rear seat and third wheel kid's seats. But you will still need destinations and activities that appeal to them. Whether by tandem or third wheel, your children will be right with you no matter how fast you ride. On a conservative tandem both cyclists have to pedal together, so when the adult pedals the child will have to pedal, unless they take their feet off the pedals. The third-wheel cycles are designed to be free wheeling so the child can sit back and enjoy the ride anytime they want.
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Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Native American Culture Activities
Native American Culture Activities
by Freda J. Glatt, MS
As many children learn about Native American culture during November, here are some activities and information about our first citizens.
Do you like barbecues? How about clambakes? Well, the next time you attend one, thank the Indians! Native Americans invented them, along with chewing gum, ponchos, chocolate, snowshoes, parkas, and moccasins. Do research to find out what else our first citizens invented!
Chief Seattle's Lesson
Seattle was a teacher
Who taught us how to care
For all the living things on earth,
Fresh water, and clean air.
"The earth does not belong to us,"
Great Chief Seattle said.
"We sometimes think it does, but we
Belong to earth, instead."
This poem was written by Helen H. Moore and reflects a basic belief of the Indians. Discuss its meaning and make a collage of fresh water vs polluted water and the effects of each, as well as clean air vs smog and the effects of each.
Beanbag Bunt
Many games that were played by Native American children when the Pilgrims landed are still played to this day. Here is a variation of a game played by the Zuni Indians of the Southwest.
Create a circle about 30' in diameter and make a horizontal starting line inside toward the edge. Put two different-colored beanbags behind the starting line and choose two children to be the first players; other children should be forming a ring around the circle.
The object of this game is to be the first to kick your beanbag around the inside of the circle without crossing its border. If a player misses, he must step outside the circle. In order to win, the other player must successfully complete his trip around the circle. Should there be a tie, or both players miss, they play another round. The winner of each round chooses a new opponent from the rest of the children.
Bird Feeder
After a good harvest, Native Americans made an offering of three ears of Indian corn tied to a gourd filled with corn kernels; this was hung outside their teepee in order to feed the birds. When the birds ate, the Indians were happy because they believed their offering had been accepted by the gods. Here are directions for you to make a bird feeder.
Cut a gourd in half vertically, scoop out the insides, and use a skewer or metal dowel to poke two holes about 1" from the top through both sides of each half of the gourd. Using a long piece of thin wire, thread one of the halves and wrap a loose end around an ear of Indian corn at the husk near the top of the ear. The longer end of wire should still be through the other hole so you can add another ear of Indian corn, then the other half of the gourd, and end with another ear of Indian corn. Finally, tie the loose ends together to form a loop and hang your bird feeder outside. Put some birdseed in each hollow end of the gourd and watch the birds eat!
Learn the names of birds in your area and keep a record of the kinds of birds that come to your feeder. Choose several birds and count how many of each kind come within a certain time frame; then make a pictograph showing the data.
Wampum
The Indian money was called wampum and consisted of strings of beads made from the shells of clams and other shellfish. Purple was worth more than white. Here is how to make your own wampum.
Put half of a small box of macaroni into a bowl and cover it with purple paint, letting it soak for two hours. Strain the macaroni and let it dry on paper towels during the night. At last, create your wampum by stringing purple and white macaroni. Tie the ends of the string together for a necklace or a bracelet.
For variation, try stringing the macaroni in various patterns and assigning different numbers to the purple and white. How much is your wampum worth? Open a little store and use your wampum for money! If you can find seashells with small holes for stringing, try using them instead of macaroni.
League of the Iroquois
One of the first governments in America was the Five Nations, or the League of the Iroquois. The Mohawk chief, Hiawatha, helped found it in 1570 to unite the separate tribes, or nations, in war and peace. Consisting of the Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas, each tribe took care of its own business. When their affairs affected another tribe, however, the League Council stepped in.
Answer these True or False statements about the paragraph above...using the Cree Indian letters for T and F! The T looks like a lowercase b with more of a heart-shaped right side than a circle; and the F looks like an inverted capital V with a vertical side on the right rather than a diagonal.
Mohawk chief Hiawatha helped start the Five Nations. ____
The Seminoles were part of the League of the Iroquois. ____
The League told all its members how to conduct their business. ____
The Five Nations was one of the first governments in America. ____
Research to find out more about the Iroquois nation. Does the League still exist?
Totem Poles
In the Pacific Northwest, Native Americans such as the Tlingit, pronounced klink-it, still make totem poles to record their family and clan histories. The poles are carved of wood and brightly painted to resemble birds, animals, or people. An angry-looking bear, for instance, could symbolize a warlike relative; while a deer might symbolize a gentle one. Make a totem pole to reflect your family! Here's how.
Measure various colors of construction paper, exactly, to fit 6-8 1-lb cans, such as coffee cans. Laying the papers flat, use crayons, markers, or paint to draw a different face or design on each. Wrap a paper around each can and tape the edges together. Place each can down with the open side up and decorate with eyes, ears, noses, teeth, and other 3-dimensional features. Use fabric, buttons, sticks...any odds and ends you have.
Decide the order in which the cans will be stacked; then add sand to the bottom one to prevent the totem pole from tipping over. Put one can on top of another, taping them together as you go. Decorate the top of your totem pole!
There are many Native American tribes in our country today. On a map, pinpoint where each tribe lives. Find out which live in your region and take a field trip to learn more about them.
I hope these ideas are useful and have inspired your own creative thinking.
Happy Thanksgiving!!
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Wedding Cake - Bakery Tips
Wedding Cake - Bakery Tips
by Nina Romanov
These tips will help you with ordering your wedding cake.
I would suggest printing this page and taking it with you to the bakery.
Don�t forget to take the picture of the wedding cake to the bakery. Talk with the pasty chef/baker and ask him or her for recommendations on designs and flavors of the cake. She may have suggestions that you may not have thought of.
Article Body:
Wedding cake bakeries will have a cake portfolio to look at and that will help you decide if they are able to make the cake you want.
Have an idea of how many guests you will have at your reception, this will help determine the amount of wedding cake you will need or number of cupcake wedding cakes. The pastry chef/cake decorator may ask how many invitations are being sent to how many people and how many are from out of town or from more than a certain number of miles away.
The pastry chef/cake decorator will use this information to calculate how many people will actually show up at the reception and how many of those will actually eat a piece or more of cake.
By this time several people, such as the minister and caterer, will have asked for this information. They will have calculated and told you how many people they think will actually attend your wedding and reception.
You will have been appalled at the low number they came up with. You know that everyone you invite is waiting breathlessly to attend your wedding and that only those who are ill or incapacitated or on Moon will pass up the chance to wish you well in person on your big day. When the baker comes up with a similar number, believe him because it�s true.
Many people will simply forget and others can think of no way worse to spend a summer Saturday than at another wedding. That�s just the way it is. And you can believe it and save some money, or you can believe that everyone will come and then have to decide what to do with the leftover cake.
Do whatever will do the most to put your mind at ease for the next six to eight months. Saving money by ordering only a sufficient amount of cake based on the years of experience of your baker is no good if you are going to fret over it and be nervous about it for more than half a year.
Sleeping well, feeling good and setting your mind at ease before your big day is a lot more important than saving money and having no leftovers. You will have enough to go crazy with as your wedding approaches.
When in wedding cake bakery, be clear about the date, time, and location of the wedding and receptions; set deadlines for changes to the cake design and size and for delivery; provide the address of and a map to the reception.
Make sure that the cake can be delivered at a time convenient to you or whomever you will have to receive and inspect the cake.
There should be a written contract with the wedding cake bakery to specify the size, shape, flavor, color, decorations, delivery day, delivery time, delivery place, and price of wedding cake.
Such a contract, of course, does not need a special form or a lawyer to draw it up. It can be a simple list with this information. The list should be dated and signed by both the baker and you, and you should each have a copy.
Many wedding cake bakeries have their own form for such orders because it is as important to them that you remember exactly what you asked for and don�t remember asking for something that you never mentioned as it is to you that they deliver what you did ask for.
If they have their form, use it and add any items or information that you need to. Make sure you take a copy of their form.
Bring swatches of material to match the cake to your wedding colors because colors in pictures are often slightly off and a picture�s colors can fade with time. (But again, don�t forget the picture of the wedding cake.)
Below you will find list of questions you should ask the pastry chef, baker, or cake decorator at the wedding cake bakery. It is your special day you have every right to ask questions!
Questions to ask at the bakery:
(Suggestion: print these questions, you will certainly need them)!
1. Can pastry chef/cake decorator create custom cake from your instructions and to look like your wedding-cake picture.
2. What flavors of wedding cake and icing are available? Or if you already have an idea what you want, ask "Can you make a (type of cake) with (flavor of icing)?"
3. Ask to sample some of the bakery's cakes. If you don't care for any of the cake samples offered by the bakery, ask for additional samples or as what other choices are available.
Even if you have to order a small cake to try the baker's version of what you want, it is a small price to pay for satisfaction.
4. In case you want to use fresh flowers to decorate the wedding cake, ask if the bakery can provide them or if you or a florist must deliver them.
5.Request to see pictures of wedding cakes from their photo gallery. Take a look at their album and see if you like the looks of the cakes. Ask how old the pictures are and if the person who baked and decorated these cakes is the same person who will create yours.
6. Does the bakery, baker, pastry chef, or cake decorator has the required licenses and has passed health inspections. Licensing varies from state to state, but a bakery is probably required to be licensed as a retail food establishment or as a food preparer.
The health department of the city, county, or state probably issues licenses. The baker, pastry chef, and decorator may also be required to be licensed or qualified as a food handler.
You can go to most states' web sites and find out just what licensing is required so that you know what to ask for.
Most bakeries will gladly let you look at the kitchen to see where the cake will be mixed, baked, decorated, and stored; this is probably as satisfying as seeing the licenses.
You should probably ask to take a peek at the kitchen after asking about the licenses. You can also ask to see the results of the latest health inspection.
7. If you simply don't like frozen food and don't want it served at your wedding, ask if the wedding cake will be frozen. But understand that some people believe the taste of several cakes improves after freezing.
8. Ask how long before the wedding date the cakes will be prepared and how they will be kept until time for delivery. If you think the time or the method of storage will result in the bridal cake not being as fresh as you want, express your feeling to the person you are talking with.
He or she either will explain or demonstrate that this will not be a problem or will negotiate a shorter length of storage. She may let you sample some cake kept for that length of time. Some cakes keep well when frozen, and others do not.
Pound cakes and some carrot cakes seem to improve with freezing. If you are not satisfied and cannot reach some agreement, you must use another bakery.
9. To find how much time and attention will be spent on your cake, ask how many orders the bakery typically has for the weekend of your order and how many of those your pastry chef might be producing.
A large volume can be an indication that not a lot of time and attention can be devoted to your cake. But a very busy bakery also indicates that many people like its products and trusts its work. Wedding cake bakery that no one likes will have plenty of time to dedicate to your cake, but that alone will not guarantee good results.
Neither will a very busy bakery guarantee good results all the time. For one, you may need to check with them during the week of production to make sure that things are going well.
For the other, you may want to check to make sure that your order has not somehow been overlooked among so many orders. In either case verify that your cake is in the process of being prepared.
10. Ask if the decorator is experienced and good and if he or she decorated the cakes pictured in the bakery's gallery.
The point of such a question is to find out whether you will be getting the best the bakery has to offer and whether you will be served by the same personnel that did the work seen in the bakery's photo album and for the references you will contact.
You may be satisfied that all decoration is supervised by a master decorator with long experience and excellent references, even though the actual work may be done by one of several less experienced decorators.
11. Ask to be introduced to each of the people who will bake, decorate, and deliver the cake. You may have questions you want to ask. If you do, ask them.
For example, you might be concerned with the experience each one has. If so, you might ask how many cakes they have baked or decorated. I might be more concerned to simply ask whether they did the cakes in the bakery's album of cakes.
If you have no questions, ask to meet them anyway. Introduce yourself and try to make it easy for them to remember your name and your face. Show a great pleasure at meeting the people who have created the wonderful masterpieces that have come from this bakery and tell them that you look forward to having them create your wedding cake.
What you are creating is a personal relationship with these artists at the wedding cake bakery. Like all workers and artists, these people like being appreciated and will do their best work for someone who has praised them and treats them as a master of their craft.
This goes as well for the person taking your order, whether it is the owner, manager, or just the order taker. I suggest that you work to make as good an impression on them as you expect them to try to make on you. Dress well when you are shopping for a bakery.
You don't have to dress like you're meeting the Queen or the First Lady, but don't be dressing like you're about to be hitting the bars with your friends on your bachelorette party--not unless you dress a lot better for that than most of the young women in my neighborhood.
Please try to time your visits so that the bakery is not crowded with customers. This is particularly important in smaller bakeries.
12.If you are concerned, ask whether the cake be made from scratch or from packaged mixes. Packaged mixes are so much more expensive that few busy bakeries would use them. And if they produce the wedding cake you want and it tastes good, do you care whether it's from a mix or from scratch?
13. Ask what the price will be. If the baker can give you an estimate but not the final cost, ask how much the final cost might vary from the estimate.
If the baker says that they will charge by how long it takes because they charge by the hour, ask how many hours it will take and do the calculation yourself.
Again, if it's an estimate of hours, ask how far the hours might vary from that estimate. If you feel uncomfortable with the bakery's commitment to giving you a number, maybe you should find another bakery.
14. Ask for customer references so that you can talk to with them. Then actually contact them and ask about their experience with the bakery.
While they were probably very pleased with the bakery (otherwise you'd think the bakery would not be giving them as a reference), they may give you some pointers about how best to deal with the bakery.
15. Request a written proposal that includes the size of the cake, the flavor, the icing type and flavor, the description of the cake: Number of tiers or number of cupcakes or miniature cakes, decorations, the date and time the cake would be ready, whether it would be delivered and where and when, and the price.
Some bakeries will put all of this in a proposal and some will commit to just the basic items. Press for commitment to everything that is important to you.
About The Author
Would you like to learn more about cakes? Do you need wedding cake ideas, pictures, cake toppers or other supplies? Visit http://CakeChannel.com
Monday, April 28, 2008
Should You Get A Home Equity Loan When Refinancing?
Should You Get A Home Equity Loan When Refinancing?
by Joshua Suffie
Among the most economical lending solution available today are home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. Depending on your personal financial situation, some of the interest can be used as a tax deduction. They are generally flexible and generally offer you the best rates available. There are a lot of advantages to a home equity loan. However, be sure to refinance with extreme caution.
There are two different types of home equity loans. The actual loan usually has a fixed rate with a precise period of time in which the loan needs to be paid off. Also fixed is the payment. This type of loan is ideal for someone who has a precise amount in mind. When consolidating your debts, such as student loans, credit cards, car loans or doing some home improvements, a homeowner will obtain a home equity loan to consolidate their entire payments inro one easy to pay bill. Often times, this creates a lower overall monthly payment.
A more flexible option is a home equity line of credit. This is an open ended loan meaning the payment and rate usually tends to be lower and is variable. A line of credit is generally used like a credit card, with tax benefits. Interest is only paid on the portion of the line you use. The rest is available for when and if you need it. Whenever you make a payment, that portion that is applied to the principle and is then available to use again if need be. Some lenders will offer a card for easier access. This option is great for when you do need to use the money immediately or would like to have the flexibility to keep using the money without going through the loan process over and over again.
If you have equity left over, when you refinance your current mortgage, often times you will be offered a home equity line of credit or home equity loan. If you have other debts that are above and beyond your original mortgage, a good way to go is a home equity loan. You are probably wondering why you wouldn't include all of your debt in your original loan. Well, often times, in order to keep the loan amounts under 80%, debt is split into two different loans. This allows people to take advantage of the best rate available. If you are able to keep the loan amount under 80% of the home appraisal value, then you can easily avoid paying Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI.
Whenever you do not have a need for a second loan when you are refinancing, you can then just put the money towards a line of credit. It is a good thing to have, should an emergency arise. When the need arises, the money is ready for you to use. This will save you the hassle of going through the entire loan process time and time again.
Another great benefit is the loan company can simply use the same credit inquiry for this loan that they used for the first loan. One note of precaution though, a line of credit usually has an annual fee attached to it. Be sure to ask your bank about specials they may be running in order to offset the cost. Sometimes they are willing to negotiate with you so that you will take the offer.
As you can clearly see, there are a lot of benefits to both a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit. Before making a decision, be sure to weigh all of your options. So that you are able to make a more informed decision, talk about the cost and ask if there are any hidden fees
About The Author
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Spyware Security Practices Aid Computer Maintenance
Spyware Security Practices Aid Computer Maintenance
by Arvind Singh
There are many ways that users can protect the system from Spyware. The more the security measures the better it is for maintenance of the computer registry and keeping the system healthy.
Spyware is a scourge for many PC users. Spyware not only covertly runs in the background and steals personal information of the user it is a potential security threat of which the extent of the damage cannot be determined. Though it is important to install anti-Spyware and anti-Adware on your system there are other utilities that must be used to clean the system registry every month or two. These tools include good free Spyware removal software among other security measures the user can take to protect the computer from malicious attack such as Viruses, Spyware and Adware.
Windows Inbuilt Internet Security Settings
Microsoft has built into its operating system and Internet Explorer many settings that enhance the Internet security of the system. In addition to this there are settings that can prevent, to a great extent, Adware and Spyware from installing on the system. It is however, imperative that there be anti-Spyware and anti-virus software on the system to prevent serious and more consistent Spyware and virus attacks. The security settings on the system serve to aid this front-end security software. The firewall settings on Windows wards off many attacks though this is not always effective as third party security software.
Anti-Spyware and Registry
Anti-Spyware is third party software that constantly watches over the operating system. It also scans the system on a regular basis or preset intervals such as every time the system boots or shuts down. It mainly scans the activity of Internet Explorer. If it detects any activity not initiated by the user it immediately sounds an alarm and removes the cause of the activity, the Spyware. Once the Spyware has been removed the remnants must be cleaned from the registry. Free Spyware Adware remover tools can do the job efficiently. This software scans the registry for Spyware and redundant entries and deletes these entries. If traces of Spyware are left in the registry they will serve to slow down the system and may also download the Spyware again from the Internet. A Spyware removal utility is another free Spyware removal software that scans and cleans the registry very efficiently. This free Spyware Adware removal tool also has a registry backup function to restore the registry to its original state if things go awry.
In the final analysis it is determined that no amount of security measures are enough to protect the system from malicious attack. The internal security measures of the system must be set as high as possible without hampering the efficiency of the system as well as having third party software such as anti-Spyware and anti-adware software installed on the system to enhance the system security.
About The Author
To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
Know more about Registry Cleaner?
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Fairer Treatment For Life Insurance Needed
Fairer Treatment For Life Insurance Needed
by David Thomson
Deciding on how much life insurance you need to take out and the type of policy that you need is hard enough as it is, after all you are facing the fact that this would be paid out should you die. Recently the Financial Services Authority has been looking into the financial sector and life insurance is just one of them.
The Financial Services Authority is the regulator for all financial service providers in the UK and looks out for the consumer when it comes to buying products. Recent findings have shown that when it comes to life insurance consumers don�t get enough information about this type of cover and can�t always make the best choice when it comes to buying their policy.
One of the main problems when it comes to buying insurance is that the consumer doesn�t understand what a policy involves and what it covers. The with-profits policy can be particularly confusing; this type of policy is a combination of cover and investment, in this case the holder of the policy benefits and so does the insurance company. This type of insurance is particularly attractive to the younger people as you gain benefits over the years.
However while it is a very popular policy there are many holding them that have to rely on the information that came with the policy they bought many years ago which leads them unable to make informed decisions regarding their policy.
As a result of this the Financial Services Authority are now asking insurance providers to start making changes when it comes to the selling practices of life insurance policies. They are asking that insurers ensure that the consumer understands the policy that they are buying and what is involved in it and to give advice when needed.
When it comes to buying life insurance then the best way to do so is by using a specialist broker. They can give you a vast amount of information concerning life insurance polices and are also able to get quotes which you can compare to make sure that you get the cheapest deal when it comes to you life insurance policy.
As with any type of insurance, life insurance policies have many hidden exclusions in the small print, it is essential that you understand this and read them. This is where you will find what you are and are not covered for in your policy.
About The Author
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Wedding Cake - Bakery Tips
Wedding Cake - Bakery Tips
by Nina Romanov
These tips will help you with ordering your wedding cake.
I would suggest printing this page and taking it with you to the bakery.
Don�t forget to take the picture of the wedding cake to the bakery. Talk with the pasty chef/baker and ask him or her for recommendations on designs and flavors of the cake. She may have suggestions that you may not have thought of.
Article Body:
Wedding cake bakeries will have a cake portfolio to look at and that will help you decide if they are able to make the cake you want.
Have an idea of how many guests you will have at your reception, this will help determine the amount of wedding cake you will need or number of cupcake wedding cakes. The pastry chef/cake decorator may ask how many invitations are being sent to how many people and how many are from out of town or from more than a certain number of miles away.
The pastry chef/cake decorator will use this information to calculate how many people will actually show up at the reception and how many of those will actually eat a piece or more of cake.
By this time several people, such as the minister and caterer, will have asked for this information. They will have calculated and told you how many people they think will actually attend your wedding and reception.
You will have been appalled at the low number they came up with. You know that everyone you invite is waiting breathlessly to attend your wedding and that only those who are ill or incapacitated or on Moon will pass up the chance to wish you well in person on your big day. When the baker comes up with a similar number, believe him because it�s true.
Many people will simply forget and others can think of no way worse to spend a summer Saturday than at another wedding. That�s just the way it is. And you can believe it and save some money, or you can believe that everyone will come and then have to decide what to do with the leftover cake.
Do whatever will do the most to put your mind at ease for the next six to eight months. Saving money by ordering only a sufficient amount of cake based on the years of experience of your baker is no good if you are going to fret over it and be nervous about it for more than half a year.
Sleeping well, feeling good and setting your mind at ease before your big day is a lot more important than saving money and having no leftovers. You will have enough to go crazy with as your wedding approaches.
When in wedding cake bakery, be clear about the date, time, and location of the wedding and receptions; set deadlines for changes to the cake design and size and for delivery; provide the address of and a map to the reception.
Make sure that the cake can be delivered at a time convenient to you or whomever you will have to receive and inspect the cake.
There should be a written contract with the wedding cake bakery to specify the size, shape, flavor, color, decorations, delivery day, delivery time, delivery place, and price of wedding cake.
Such a contract, of course, does not need a special form or a lawyer to draw it up. It can be a simple list with this information. The list should be dated and signed by both the baker and you, and you should each have a copy.
Many wedding cake bakeries have their own form for such orders because it is as important to them that you remember exactly what you asked for and don�t remember asking for something that you never mentioned as it is to you that they deliver what you did ask for.
If they have their form, use it and add any items or information that you need to. Make sure you take a copy of their form.
Bring swatches of material to match the cake to your wedding colors because colors in pictures are often slightly off and a picture�s colors can fade with time. (But again, don�t forget the picture of the wedding cake.)
Below you will find list of questions you should ask the pastry chef, baker, or cake decorator at the wedding cake bakery. It is your special day you have every right to ask questions!
Questions to ask at the bakery:
(Suggestion: print these questions, you will certainly need them)!
1. Can pastry chef/cake decorator create custom cake from your instructions and to look like your wedding-cake picture.
2. What flavors of wedding cake and icing are available? Or if you already have an idea what you want, ask "Can you make a (type of cake) with (flavor of icing)?"
3. Ask to sample some of the bakery's cakes. If you don't care for any of the cake samples offered by the bakery, ask for additional samples or as what other choices are available.
Even if you have to order a small cake to try the baker's version of what you want, it is a small price to pay for satisfaction.
4. In case you want to use fresh flowers to decorate the wedding cake, ask if the bakery can provide them or if you or a florist must deliver them.
5.Request to see pictures of wedding cakes from their photo gallery. Take a look at their album and see if you like the looks of the cakes. Ask how old the pictures are and if the person who baked and decorated these cakes is the same person who will create yours.
6. Does the bakery, baker, pastry chef, or cake decorator has the required licenses and has passed health inspections. Licensing varies from state to state, but a bakery is probably required to be licensed as a retail food establishment or as a food preparer.
The health department of the city, county, or state probably issues licenses. The baker, pastry chef, and decorator may also be required to be licensed or qualified as a food handler.
You can go to most states' web sites and find out just what licensing is required so that you know what to ask for.
Most bakeries will gladly let you look at the kitchen to see where the cake will be mixed, baked, decorated, and stored; this is probably as satisfying as seeing the licenses.
You should probably ask to take a peek at the kitchen after asking about the licenses. You can also ask to see the results of the latest health inspection.
7. If you simply don't like frozen food and don't want it served at your wedding, ask if the wedding cake will be frozen. But understand that some people believe the taste of several cakes improves after freezing.
8. Ask how long before the wedding date the cakes will be prepared and how they will be kept until time for delivery. If you think the time or the method of storage will result in the bridal cake not being as fresh as you want, express your feeling to the person you are talking with.
He or she either will explain or demonstrate that this will not be a problem or will negotiate a shorter length of storage. She may let you sample some cake kept for that length of time. Some cakes keep well when frozen, and others do not.
Pound cakes and some carrot cakes seem to improve with freezing. If you are not satisfied and cannot reach some agreement, you must use another bakery.
9. To find how much time and attention will be spent on your cake, ask how many orders the bakery typically has for the weekend of your order and how many of those your pastry chef might be producing.
A large volume can be an indication that not a lot of time and attention can be devoted to your cake. But a very busy bakery also indicates that many people like its products and trusts its work. Wedding cake bakery that no one likes will have plenty of time to dedicate to your cake, but that alone will not guarantee good results.
Neither will a very busy bakery guarantee good results all the time. For one, you may need to check with them during the week of production to make sure that things are going well.
For the other, you may want to check to make sure that your order has not somehow been overlooked among so many orders. In either case verify that your cake is in the process of being prepared.
10. Ask if the decorator is experienced and good and if he or she decorated the cakes pictured in the bakery's gallery.
The point of such a question is to find out whether you will be getting the best the bakery has to offer and whether you will be served by the same personnel that did the work seen in the bakery's photo album and for the references you will contact.
You may be satisfied that all decoration is supervised by a master decorator with long experience and excellent references, even though the actual work may be done by one of several less experienced decorators.
11. Ask to be introduced to each of the people who will bake, decorate, and deliver the cake. You may have questions you want to ask. If you do, ask them.
For example, you might be concerned with the experience each one has. If so, you might ask how many cakes they have baked or decorated. I might be more concerned to simply ask whether they did the cakes in the bakery's album of cakes.
If you have no questions, ask to meet them anyway. Introduce yourself and try to make it easy for them to remember your name and your face. Show a great pleasure at meeting the people who have created the wonderful masterpieces that have come from this bakery and tell them that you look forward to having them create your wedding cake.
What you are creating is a personal relationship with these artists at the wedding cake bakery. Like all workers and artists, these people like being appreciated and will do their best work for someone who has praised them and treats them as a master of their craft.
This goes as well for the person taking your order, whether it is the owner, manager, or just the order taker. I suggest that you work to make as good an impression on them as you expect them to try to make on you. Dress well when you are shopping for a bakery.
You don't have to dress like you're meeting the Queen or the First Lady, but don't be dressing like you're about to be hitting the bars with your friends on your bachelorette party--not unless you dress a lot better for that than most of the young women in my neighborhood.
Please try to time your visits so that the bakery is not crowded with customers. This is particularly important in smaller bakeries.
12.If you are concerned, ask whether the cake be made from scratch or from packaged mixes. Packaged mixes are so much more expensive that few busy bakeries would use them. And if they produce the wedding cake you want and it tastes good, do you care whether it's from a mix or from scratch?
13. Ask what the price will be. If the baker can give you an estimate but not the final cost, ask how much the final cost might vary from the estimate.
If the baker says that they will charge by how long it takes because they charge by the hour, ask how many hours it will take and do the calculation yourself.
Again, if it's an estimate of hours, ask how far the hours might vary from that estimate. If you feel uncomfortable with the bakery's commitment to giving you a number, maybe you should find another bakery.
14. Ask for customer references so that you can talk to with them. Then actually contact them and ask about their experience with the bakery.
While they were probably very pleased with the bakery (otherwise you'd think the bakery would not be giving them as a reference), they may give you some pointers about how best to deal with the bakery.
15. Request a written proposal that includes the size of the cake, the flavor, the icing type and flavor, the description of the cake: Number of tiers or number of cupcakes or miniature cakes, decorations, the date and time the cake would be ready, whether it would be delivered and where and when, and the price.
Some bakeries will put all of this in a proposal and some will commit to just the basic items. Press for commitment to everything that is important to you.
About The Author
Would you like to learn more about cakes? Do you need wedding cake ideas, pictures, cake toppers or other supplies? Visit http://CakeChannel.com
Top 50 Christmas Gift Ideas UNDER $50 You can Order Online
Top 50 Christmas Gift Ideas UNDER $50 You can Order Online
by Nicole Anderson
With the Christmas holiday quickly approaching the malls and stores around the nation will soon be filled to capacity. If you�d like to avoid the hassle and have your Christmas presents delivered straight to your door without braking your pocket book, check out these unique gifts UNDER $50 that you can purchase online for your kids, mom, dad, husband, wife, brothers and sisters.
Gifts for WOMEN
1. CROCS TM
$29.99
The original CROCS TM Sandal (Unisex). Your favorite CROCS� in MANY colors. Propriety sandals are slip-resistant, bacteria-resistant and nonmarking. Available at http://www.crocs.com
2. Lavender-Filled Linens
$28.00
Put one in your pillowcase for sweet-scented dreams.
You can purchase lavender-filled linens by elizabethW at http://www.elizabethW.com
Click to view gift: http://www.elizabethw.com/shp/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=28&cat=Lavender+Pillow
3. Cropped puffer vest
$44.62
Hot, high-quality down-filled polyester, Sleeveless, cropped length puffy vest. Has snap pockets, front zip and loop-and-button closure with detachable faux fur-trimmed hood. Available at http://www.gap.com
Click to view gift: http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=25034&pid=413141&scid=413141022
4. CASHMERE SOCKS
$18.95
Very cozy and affordable cashmere footies by Banana Republic. Get them in any color. Available at http://www.bananarepublic.com
Click to view gift: http://www.bananarepublic.com/browse/product.do?cid=24793&pid=433629&scid=433629012
5. Croissants from Williams-Sonoma
$39.95
Made by French pastry chef Jean-Yves Charon, these are shipped frozen so you can savor fresh-baked croissants just like those in a French patisserie. A box of 15 is available at http://www.williams-sonoma.com or call 877-812-6235.
Click to view gift: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/4276333/index.cfm?clg=27
6. Juicy Couture Charm Bracelet
$35.00
The signature core of the Juicy Couture jewelry line comes complete with a heart charm at the end. Available at http://www.nordstrom.com Item # 140417.
Click to view gift: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2850076?search=true&searchtype=keywordsearch
7. Intimates Nordstrom Flannel Pajamas
$48.00
Premium cotton flannel make for the coziest pj's. Available at http://www.nordstrom.com Item # 153071.
Click to view gift: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2862436?search=true&searchtype=keywordsearch
8. Tiffany & Co. Holiday Mug
$45.00
Mug from the Tiffany HOLIDAY Collection. Bone china, 10-ounce capacity. Available at http://www.tiffany.com
Click to view gift: http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/item.aspx?sku=11764509&search_params=t+Mug+from+the+Tiffany+HOLIDAY+Collection-s+0-p+1-l+-h+-c+-r+-x
OR
Tiffany & Co. Annual pocket diary
$40.00
Blue patent leather. 3x5". Available at http://www.tiffany.com
Click to view gift: http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/item.aspx?sku=21627119&search_params=t+Annual+pocket+diary.+Blue+patent+leather-s+0-p+1-l+-h+-c+-r+-x
9. Shuga Buds, Swarovski� Cystal Head phones
$48.00
Listen to your favorite tunes with these sparkling buds. Choose iridescent, gold, blue, green or pink. crystals. For use with iPods�, MP3 players, portable CD players, and Sony� Walkman. Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com Item #NMOF7_H11EW
Click to view gift: http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?cmCat=search&itemId=prod24950136
10. Necklace Vault Jewelry Box
$49.99
Designed to hold a variety of necklaces, this stylish vault features four glassed sides for display. Open the door to fund hooks that hold necklaces securely and keeps them from tangling. A single drawer at the bottom holds other small items. A wonderful gift, it's boxed for giving! Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 1866735
Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B0006ZSMTA/ref=sr_11_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core
11. Triple Garnet Heart Necklace
$50.00
Win her heart. This necklace, featuring three deep-red, heart-shaped garnets, will make your intentions clear. Since the Middle Ages, the garnet has been associated with truth and love. Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com
Click to view gift:
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12. Boucl� deep v-neck sweater
$39.99
Texture takes a colorful new twist in this form-fitting, feminine sweater. Plunge front. Rib trim. Imported acrylic/nylon/wool/spandex. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #204-677
Click to view gift:
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13. Oval cocktail ring
$34.00
A ring with lots of bling to go around. Arrives in a velvet drawstring pouch and pink box. Imported metal and glass.
3/4" wide. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #206-313
Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-206313&page=1&cgname=OSGIFJWLZZZ&rfnbr=3286
14. Victoria's Secret The Sexiest Fragrances on Earth
$39.50
Seven of her favorite fragrances all wrapped up in the sexiest way. Includes .25 oz Eau de Parfum Sprays of new dream angels desire, America's #1 Fragrance, dream angels heavenly; Very Sexy� For Her and Very Sexy For Her 2; Victoria's Secret PINK, Rapture� and Body By Victoria�. Imported and domestic. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #203-108
Click to view gift:
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15. Victoria Secret Shimmer Brush, Garden Collection
$20 for one or 2 for $35
Give it to glow. Brush adds a touch of scented shimmer wherever you want to shine. Choose from three Garden scents, each with a different color of shimmer. Imported and domestic. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Item #203-256
Click to view gift:
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16. Victoria Secret Three-piece pajama gift set
$39.50
Bedtime is three times as fun with cotton sleepwear in cheerful prints. Includes three-quarter sleeve cardigan with button front, cami with adjustable straps and ruching, and full-length bottom with drawstring elastic waist. Arrives in a matching gift bag. Imported cotton. Available at http://www.victoriasecret.com Sizes XS-XL. Item #202-702 $39.
Click to view gift:
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=XF-202702&page=1&cgname=OSGIFPGSZZZ&rfnbr=3281
Gifts for MEN
17. Bookmark Dictionary II
$49.99
Have the American heritage dictionary of the English language, fourth edition, and its revised and updated 130,000+ words and definitions right at your fingertips�literally�as you read! This tiny bookmark dictionary is truly thin enough to use as a bookmark, and its slim, flexible keypad secures to any book with unique keypad clip. Imported.
� Keeps date and time.
� Large lcd screen for easy reading.
� Makes a great gift!
� Multifunction calculator also converts measurements of length, temperature, weight, etc.
� Uses on lithium battery(included) and features auto shutoff function.
Available at http://www.macys.com
Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=118103&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
18. Callaway HX Tour 56 Golf Ball - Personalized
$44.99
One dozen top of the line, new design Callaway golf balls PERSONALIZED. Available at www.austads.com.
Click to view gift:
http://www.austads.com/austads/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=5107&pf%5Fid=PABBIAACLOLFHDDJ
19. Shoehorn Backscratcher
$25.00
There's always that one spot he can't reach, and, frankly, you're tired of scratching his back. You can feign arthritis, or you can help dad help himself with this bamboo shoehorn/backscratcher combo. Made in Italy. Available at http://www.macys.com
Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=194162&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
20. Handle Mount Grill Light
$50.00
A BBQ light lets you grill at night or any time of the year!For BBQ gifts, here�s a truly brilliant idea that puts the spotlight on your cooking! Made to fit conveniently on any grill handle, our BBQ light takes the guesswork out of your outdoor cuisine, allowing you to see what�s ready and what needs more time over the heat.
Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 439794
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=439794&search_type=search&search_words=439794&prodtemp=t2
21. Electric Ice Scraper
$14.99
Hate standing in the cold scraping ice from you car? Try this electric ice scraper which will get rid of that troublesome ice in a cinch. The convenient 14-foot cord plugs into your car's cigarette lighter and warms the rubber squeegee to quickly melt away ice from the windshield, so you can get out the cold and into your car. Imported. Available at http://www.macys.com
Click to view gift:
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=137042&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
22. Connoisseur�s Compact Wine Opener
$40.00
Opening your favorite bottle of wine is now easier than ever before with the amazing Connoisseur wine bottle opener! Available at http://www.brookstone.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=530774&search_type=search&search_words=Compact%20Wine&prodtemp=t1&cm_re=Result*R1C1*A
23. Burberry Golf Cap
$50.00
Send him off to the links in style. Rain-resistant golf cap features signature logo and nova check trim. Choose trench, white, black, or red. Imported of fine Italian cotton and spandex gabardine stretch twill. One adjustable size fits most. Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com Item #NMOF7_N8615
Click to view gift:
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?cmCat=search&srcText=NMOF7_N8615&numResults=0&pageNum=0&cmCat=search&itemId=prod35720073
24. Floating Desktop Globe
$40.00
The world just got a little bit more interesting. This high-tech desktop globe floats in its powerful magnetic stand. It's possible to pass one's hands above, below and around the small globe as it continues to levitate. Simply plug it in, guide the globe into the magnetic field, and it floats in space�just like the Earth. Available at http://www.redenvelope.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=94016&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+him&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8072&bct5=entire+collection&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+him%2Fentire+collection@@30$$-12043@@35$$12043&catOid=-12043&oid=19374384&nc2=1
25. NAP� My Pillow
$20.00
For cozy cuddling anytime. Made of our exclusive NapSoft� material�and available in a variety of comfy colors�these luxurious pillows are the perfect size for anytime napping and cuddling. You can even change the color of your My Pillow by slipping on one of the vibrant NapSac covers. Available at http://www.brookstone.com.
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?pid=MY_PILLOW&wid=100&cid=59&sid=622&search_type=subcategory&prodtemp=t1
26. HoMedics MP3 Cush Music Playing Massage Seat - Black
$49.99
Sit back and relax with soothing heat, massage and music in this massage seat that features 5 massage motors for multiple modes of relaxation. Available at http://www.bestbuy.com. Model: BKMP-3-100
Click to view gift:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7992899&type=product&id=1155070007013
Gifts for Men or Women
27. XtremeMac SportWrap for iPod Black or
$29.95
Perfect for any kind of activity, the SportWrap is an ultra-compact, moisture-resistant case you can wear comfortably on your arm. Available at http://www.ipod.com.
Click to view gift:
http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/6134003/wo/PW30nFwkWvyv2jnrY3xKbRtoAr1/2.0.23.1.0.8.25.7.11.0.3
28. Mini MP3 Speaker Dock for iPod� Nano
$50.00
Enjoy portable, rich sound, no headphones required� just insert your iPod� nano. Perfect for travel or listening anywhere. Includes storage case for protection. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 533000
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=533000&search_type=search&search_words=533000&prodtemp=t1
29. 5 pc. TV Tray Set, Natural
$29.99
Four trays plus storage stand. Available at http://www.sears.com Sears item #00872202000 Mfr. model #PJ-TB001/NA
Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Shop+by+Price&pid=00872202000&vertical=GIFT&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes
30. Illuminated Photo Frame
$50.00
Give your printed 5x7 photos a special glow with our backlit frame. Slide in a 5x7 photo print and watch it come to life. The backlit flatscreen frame illuminates the image with a wonderful glow. Also makes a great night-light. Displays photo in portrait or landscape modes. Includes variable brightness control. For best results, use watermark-free photo prints. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 549774
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=549774&search_type=search&search_words=549774&prodtemp=t1
31. Desktop Beverage Warmer
$25.00
Keep coffee, tea and more, hot�in your own mug. Now you can enjoy your favorite hot beverages�and keep them hot�until the last drop with our electric beverage warmer. Available at http://www.brookstone.com Brookstone sku # 535435
Click to view gift:
http://www.brookstone.com/store/product.asp?product_code=535435&search_type=search&search_words=535435&prodtemp=t1
32. Christmas Tree Frame
$29.99
Look who's peeking out from this very special Christmas tree - it's all the faces you love! There's room for 12 favorite ornament photos on the shiny silver branches, plus we've included a shiny star ready to engrave with a family name and date. Available at http://www.thingsremembered.com Item# 579667
Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_579667_-1_1
33. Jewel Cordials with Tray - Set of Six
$10.00
Whether used for serving pre-dinner aperitifs or after dinner liquours, these Jewel Cordials and Tray are a lovely serving option! This set of six multi-colored glasses arrive complete with a gold finished wooden tray. Each cordial is shaped differently - a unique touch! Boxed. Available at http://www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 5890697
Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B000AXZC8C/sr=1-1/qid=1163460629/ref=sr_1_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core&m=A2Z4DUPX2Z8M59
34. Holiday Happiness Gift Basket, Hickory Farms
$15.99 � 49.99 Assorted Gift Baskets
Available at http://www.hickoryfarms.com
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http://www.hickoryfarms.com/shop/productform.asp?subcategory_code=2&search_type=subcategory&page=1&category_code=1
35. Lumiscope Holmes Foot Buddy Personal Heater
$29.99
Ideal for use in the home or office! The Holmes Foot Buddy Personal Heater features a spacious resting surface and a removable fleece pocket for your feet. It has a simple toe-touch power button and can be adjusted to two different heat settings and three different angles. A built-in handle makes it easy to transport the warmer from reading chair to desk or den, and the fleece pocket removes for washing. Use with or without fleece toe pockets. Available at http://www.sears.com Sears item #08038127000 Mfr. model #38127
Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Shop+by+Price&pid=08038127000&vertical=GIFT&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes
Gifts for Kids
36. Giga Ball
$49.88
Jumbo inflatable ball is big enough to crawl inside, roll across the yard and even bounce! One look at the Giga Ball and kids can't wait to bounce it, roll it, and crawl inside to tumble, bounce and spin, spin, spin! Available at http://www.spilsbury.com Item #18961
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http://www.spilsbury.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=30001&storeId=10001&productId=8961&langId=-1&parent_category_rn=11111&categoryId=11111&ref=spilsbury&itemNo=1&totalNo=1
37. Kick Disc Power Puck
$39.99
Kick Dis is a 7" diameter puck with a motor, rechargeable battery and tough rubber bumper. It hovers, glides and even streaks across rooms, never touching the ground! Play air hockey, hover soccer and more for hours of fun. Available at http://scientificsonline.com Item #3033540
Click to view gift:
http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3033540&cmss=3033540
38. Jump-O-Lene Trampoline
$39.88
Indoors or out, kids will bounce for hours on this inflatable trampoline. Made from heavy-duty vinyl with 13/4' high attached safety wall with rain-drain holes. Available at www.spilsbury.com Item #14663
Click to view gift:
http://www.spilsbury.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=30001&storeId=10001&productId=4663&langId=-1&parent_category_rn=11111&categoryId=11111&ref=spilsbury&itemNo=1&totalNo=1
39. Moon Shoes
$40.00
Who hasn't wanted to escape the bounds of gravity, even for a second? Like mini-trampolines for the feet, these funky shoes provide out-of-this-world fun. Strap them on and prepare to lift off, lightweight and strong, they let kids jump, bounce, hop and leap with abandon Available at www.redenvelope.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=71653&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=2607424&nc2=1
40. Walkie Talkie Wrist Watches
$30.00
Move over, 007. These undercover devices allow young sleuths to hold their own covert conversations. Disguised as digital wristwatches that display the time and date, these walkie-talkies have built-in microphones and fitted earpieces for hands-free communication. Available at www.redenvelope.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=56469&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=5213634&nc2=1
41. Voice Protected Diary
$30.00
Hell hath no fury like a girl whose diary has been compromised by her little brother. Boasting a high-tech voice recognition system, this version allows her to divulge to her heart's content without fear of being discovered. (Even if someone guesses her password, only her voice can unlock the diary.) Other features include high and low security settings, a mini light for writing at night and, best of all, an intruder alert. The tri-fold design has spring-loaded doors that open with ceremony to inspire her next entry. Available at www.redenvelope.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=61623&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+kids+%2B+teens&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8074&bct5=6-12+years&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+kids+%2B+teens%2F6-12+years@@30$$-9962@@35$$9962&catOid=-9962&oid=16691902&nc2=1
Gifts for Girls
42. Ballerina Musical Jewelry Box
$26.99
Our smallest jewelry box is a replica of the one we had as a little girl. White box opens to a soft pink colored interior. Lift the hinged lid and witness a miniature ballerina twirling. Available at www.mybambino.com ITEM # JEWEA
Click to view gift:
http://www.mybambino.com/balletjewbox.html
43. Children's Sterling Silver Heart ID Bracelet
$45.00
Surprise a special little girl with this lovely sterling silver ID bracelet! It features a link design and is accented with a dangling heart. Engrave her name and watch her eyes light up. Available at www.thingsremembered.com Item# 500953
Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_500953_-1_1
or
Girl's Sterling Silver Heart Locket
$45.00
Your little girl will adore this beautiful sterling silver heart locket. Place a cherished photo inside and engrave a name or date to create a lasting memory. Available at www.thingsremembered.com Item #517881
Click to view gift:
http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10001_10001_517881_-1_1?fcref=fg517881
Gifts for BOYS
44. Gearbotics Sonic T-Rex Robot Kit
$28.95
Gears Trex Kit! Start beginning builders off on the right foot with a Gears! Gears! Gears! Building project that's guaranteed to be ferocious fun! Twenty-eight piece gear building set has exactly the right pieces to bring a wonderful T-Rex to walking, roaring life. Includes motor with T-Rex sounds, gears, connectors and dinosaur pieces.
Dinosaur measures 17". Ages 5 and up. Available at www.discoverthis.com Item # LR-9195.
Click to view gift:
http://www.discoverthis.com/gears-trex.html
45. LITTLE RED SCOOTER - Radio Flyer
$42.99
Classic scooter styling, wood platform with grip tread, and sturdy steel construction. High performance molded wheels and double rear wheels for maximum stability. Adjustable handlebar height and ringing bell. Ages 3-7. Available at http://candy-crate.stores.yahoo.net/liredsctou.html
46. Konus Junior Telescope - KJ4
$49.95
Perfect for young astronomers, the Konus Junior Telescope offers astronomical viewing, zoom spotting for terrestrial use and easy maneuverability! Perfect for the young and curious. Available at http://scientificsonline.com Item #3026801
Click to view gift:
http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp?pn=3026801&sid=mer_findgift
47. Robosapien
$49.99
Robosapien marks a tremendous advance in remote activated robotic function. Standing over a foot tall, this completely interactive robot has the ability to walk, dance and groove, as well as pick up and throw items. This robotic wonder also delivers several combinations of strike and chops. The fluid biomechanical motions are amazing. Kids can control all the robotic movements with the easy-to-use remote. Program up to 84 different action sequences, and utilize four program modes for advanced operations. Available at www.sears.com Sears item #05219791000 Mfr. model #126414
Click to view gift:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/subcat.do?vertical=GIFT&cat=Shop+by+Price&subcat=Gifts+Under+%24+50&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes
Gifts for Baby
48. My First Tooth/Curl Box
$12.00
Treasure baby's first milestone by holding on to tiny miracles! This set of two silverpate boxes were designed to hold baby's curl from his or her first haircut, and first tooth. These treasures will be kept safe and secure until they are passed on. Set of two circular boxes are engraved with First Tooth and First Curl and are packaged for giving. Available at www.bombaycompany.com Item#: 1866515
Click to view gift:
http://www.bombaycompany.com/gp/product/B0002V1KWO/ref=sr_11_1/102-5692121-2557710?ie=UTF8&bmBrand=core
49. Red Baby Long Johns
$28.00
Wild West cowboys loved long johns for riding the range; little cowpokes will love them for riding through the house. Ours have the traditional back flap, as well as snaps down the front and on the inside legs. Available at www.redenvelope.com
Click to view gift:
http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=18983&BV_SessionID=@@@@1481718969.1163460895@@@@&BV_EngineID=cceiaddjfkeiemgcefecefedfgfdfmh.0&refPg=endeca_srch&N=0&Nr=searchable%3A0&Ntk=search&Ntt=long+johns&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&initSrch=search&oid=20929519&nc2=1
50. Someday Inc. Personalized Piggy Bank
$42.00
A classic gift, hand-painted and personalized for a special penny-saver. A bow crowns this little pig. Comes gift wrapped in a cellophane bag with a bow and a hand-painted Someday Inc. gift card. Available at www.nordstrom.com Item #166359
Click to view gift:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2873165/0~2379292~2379293~6008493~6008506?mediumthumbnail=Y&origin=category&searchtype=&pbo=6008506&P=2
About The Author
Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties)
Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties)
by Tony Pescatore
Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties)
Hello a couple months ago I did an article on my families all time favourite secret recipe Frittlers (Italian Pasties). There is 2 ways you can make them one is with oil the other without oil. I love them both ways out of 5 with oil I give it 5 without oil I give it 4.75 still sensational. The article I did 2 months ago was with oil so I�ve updated this with the way to do it without oil.
The reason for this without oil is healthier then with oil so if you would like to try it but without oil this is for you. I have them both ways and love them.
Firstly the oil recipe I did 2-3 months ago is below and underneath it is how to do it without oil Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties).
You are in for a treat. We name the recipe Frittlers (Italian Pasties)
With Oil Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 1 (Italian Pasties)
Ingredients
7g yeast,
1 cup lukewarm water � if need more add extra but don�t make it soggy,
3 cups plain flour,
pinch of salt,
pepper,
cheese, not mozzarella cheese but either shredded tasty cheese or shredded plain cheese,
ham,
tomatoes,
tuna (chunk tuna) instead of ham
canola oil
Put flour in bowl make a hole in the centre then add water and yeast mix together with pinch of salt. Work the dough don�t make it real dry. Then put in plastic bag, close bag up. Then put in a warm spot such as under blankets somewhere warm for about 1hour to 1.5 hours for it to rise to double its size.
While it�s rising get ham and cheese, not mozzarella cheese but either shredded tasty cheese or shredded plain cheese. Cut up ham add cheese then mix together.
Roll out dough to pasty round sizes do one at a time, add ham, cheese and sprinkle of pepper no salt then roll up pasty. When rolled up with filling at the ends with a fork press it and go around the edges. Then prick it lightly with fork twice around the middle.
Continue doing that until finished. Once done put 2 at a time in a frying pan with canola oil so oil covers the whole lot make sure oil is hot. (Just be careful because of heat) Cook to nice gold colour about 4-5 minutes then turn over and do other side. Take them out and put on paper towel to get rid of some of the oil. Can eat them basically straight away or you might wait to they cool down that is up to you.
There is no problems with freezing them they still taste fantastic.
If you want to add tomatoes you can but have it within 24 hours but don�t freeze any with tomatoes, what I do is if take them out the freezer when they thaw out I cut in half and add tomato and put in oven or griller.
Can also have chunk tuna instead of ham with the cheese. Tuna and cheese is also okay to freeze.
Also if you like you can add chopped up onion or anything that you enjoy.
Without Oil Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties)
You do exactly the same as with oil but instead of using oil and cooking them in a frying pan put them in the oven for roughly 10-15 minutes on 200 Degrees Celsius or 400 Degrees Fahrenheit then flip over again for extra 10 minutes and enjoy. (You can put on just a touch of oil on the Frittlers just before putting them in the oven).
This family secret recipe is one your family and friends will really appreciate, bon appetite!
Secret Recipes Frittlers Part 2 (Italian Pasties)
About The Author