Namaste

Moms and Grandmas Have Changed

2007-10-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Last night, while chatting with a friend, I thought how much times have changed. Moms and Grandmas used to talk about the latest quilt design or recipes, and now we (that's right, I am both of them)are keeping up with the Internet, software, graphics, enewsletters, etc. My friend and I talk recipes, family, etc., but when we get going on software and newsletters and electronic gadgets like PDAs, AlphaSmarts, software for DVDs and various downloads, we really get busy. Last night, she was coaching me on how to get my 3000 AlphaSmart, which I use quite a bit when parked in waiting rooms, to use the Get program. This Get It program copies what is on the PC and transfers it to the AlphaSmart. (AlphaSmart 3000 is an older model as there are Neos and Danas, but I like the ease of packing this thing in a tote bag.) As it turns out, after much back and forth, there is no way my "Y" cable is going to work for a download/clip and paste.

Oh, well. We both have XPs, dreading the changeover to Vista, and wondering how much software we'll have to buy to keep up. She's run several print and online newsletters and we both do graphics and I was telling her about a new freebie, Print.Net for graphics, which is actually pretty neat, tho we both have several graphic programs. She's clinging to WordPerfect, but I have to move on and we both just wish they would have left it in the Dos or WP7 version, very plain.

So we chat a bit about recipes/gardening, etc., but we always come back to techno stuff and how-tos. She has a Windows CE, while I just have a plain PDA. It seems neither one of us can manage schedules, addresses and phone numbers without our gizmos. She likes to write on her AlphaSmart while her husband drives.

Last night I brought my laptop up to speed; it hasn't been used for a while and needed updating for a new graphics program. That took a few hours and then the AlphaSmart fiasco.

Then I think about my mother's life and my grandmother's, and how they talked with their friends about cooking, canning, sewing, and quilt making. (My mother crocheted.)

Times have really changed. We are close to family and friends and peers on the Internet, rather than gathering around a quilting rack. And I wonder about the coffees and visiting in each other's houses, too. Part of Desperate Housewives appeal may be that they are in each other's lives so much, while actually today's woman may not visit, or know her neighbor. Today's online communities and chats, etc., allow for networking and are sometimes a substitution for real live communication over a morning cup of coffee.

Families around the nightly dinner table is a scenario that doesn't occur very often in our busy lives, but I do wish more families would take time to do that. With text messaging, etc., it's not unusual to see family members not communicating...with each other.

My friend and I live miles apart, rarely see each other, but do keep in touch. Especially when one of us needs an electronic fix, like the "Y" cable fiasco last night.

Nope, we're not gathered around the quilting rack any more. And there's no going back.

Superfundraiser.com Writing Contest

2007-10-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

Just write a post on your own blog listing which of My votes go to:

Back to School Means Fundraising Begins by Christina
The Seven Wonders of the World by Rachelle
Five Reasons Why I Loved Junior High by Jess

No Service

2007-10-18T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I have internet back. Our cable and internet went out this afternoon (and yes, the bill was paid, and isn’t due yet). We called our cable company, and they usually say there is service interuption in our area. But they didn’t say that this time. So, Ethan talked to a real person. She took our information. If anyone else called in reporting trouble in our area, they would send someone out and treat it as an area disturbance. But, if no one else called, then someone would be out Monday to check our cables and such. I’m glad it was something in the area, and not us. I had put some clothes away in our bedroom, and the way David has our cable, there is a cable line right by where I put the clothes. But, I didn’t think I had touched it, or unplugged something. And it didn’t go out when I was in there. At any rate, I’m glad to have service back! I told him we need to switch to Sprint for our internet. That way when our cable goes out, we don’t lose both the TV AND the internet.

So, I read for awhile; and also continue doing what I have been doing most of the day. Laundry. I have most everything washed and folded. Its not been that way for awhile. Alot of times, we go on a day-to-day basis, doing what we need for the next day. Feels kinda nice to be all caught up. Folded and everything! Hmmmm…. lesson here …. kill the cable once in awhile. No, actually, I had been doing this all day, even when we did have cable and internet. It was just strangely quiet.

This Gives Me Chills

2007-10-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

Having a son who has a passion for signing and does a decent job at it … I can appreciate the talent this 7 year old has.

Planning Ahead

2007-10-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

I wish this is what I could do this weekend. Just kick back, enjoy the crisp fall weather, maybe even go camping. But, its not going to happen that way. I have alot of my to do list of things that need to be done. And I have probably put them off for long enough. One of them involves a report that is due at the end of the month, and I have three months worth of checking and inputing into the computer. If I could ever get caught up, and I would check and enter on a weekly basis, then I wouldn’t be scrambling like this to get it all done within a few weeks. Since it is a new quarter, I might do that first thing this afternoon. Getting last weeks checked and in the computer, and just make sure I do that every Friday. That doesn’t help with what I need to do now, but it will definately help down the road at the end of this quarter.

Its also City Wide fall clean up. We can put all kinds of things out at the curb - things that would normally cost us if we hauled them to the landfill ourselves (not to mention, we would have to haul it out there ourselves). I severely need to declutter and get rid of a bunch of things. I don’t know how far I’ll get, but I would like to make a dent. I have a goal. Matt would like to have Christmas at our house. Now granted, with a large, close knit family like ours, there will be more extended family get together for Christmas. But, Matt would like for just “our” family to celebrate Christmas, at my house. I suffer from C.H.A.O.S. syndrome, but it is a reasonable request. So. No promises, but I’m going to try.

Regardless of what I do, he has invited me, David and Ethan to his humble abode for Thanksgiving. Wow. We are actually planning ahead for a change. Usually, the week OF Thanksgiving, we are all going “where are we going for Thanksgiving”. But this year, I know where we are going. That will be nice. I enjoy being around this adult child of mine. He makes me smile. He makes me laugh … he was down here yesterday, and we had lunch together. And we got to talking about Ethan. I got called a wienie by husband because I don’t “law down the law” where Ethan is concerned. In other words, Matt didn’t agree with me that he should be allowed to drive after he remodeled my Explorer Labor Day weekend (Ethan, that is.). But, I’m also being realistic — he doesn’t have enough time to get from school to work, by walking. And even if he did, then he’s all hot and sweaty, ready to meet the public. The alternative is for me to pull his license and then we are back to chaueffering him. I’m sure there are lots of opinions out there to how I should have handled this, and I’m sure I didn’t do it right.

But, I find it funny that Matt — now as an adult — takes this “lay down the law” attitude. The kid that gave me SOOOO much grief as a teenager. Far worse than Ethan ever has. Drinking. Tickets. Depression. An angry child who kept it all in. But I could see the anger under the surface. I could write a whole book about Matt and how far he’s come.

So, I just reminded him that I’m still the same weinie now that I was when he was growing up, and it probably wouldn’t change.

Its amazing how life goes on, how things change, people change. I’m can hardly wait to see what Ethan will be like in 10 years.

Fall Has Kicked In

2007-10-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

Fall has definately kicked in. It hasn’t been cold, but it has been on the chilly side. Not cold enough to turn the furnace on yet, but having a light fuzzy blanket around my shoulders and arms does feel good right now. This is still my favorite time of the year; I don’t look forward to the coldness to follow though. And the snow and ice terrifies me. I fell on ice back in 2001, and broke my arm — so I probably have a more-than-necessary fear of it. But the guys at the church are really good about salting down icy sidewalks, and making it as safe as possible … for me during the week, and of course, for the congregation on Sundays. And, if I make the 10 mile drive out to my afternoon job, then getting from my Explorer to the office is a piece of cake. They have a carport that I park under, and there is usually never any snow or ice. Since David works out there as well, if I feel like the roads are too trecherous, he will come and get me. We have a carport attached to our house as well, so getting to my Explorer is never a problem. My rule of thumb is, if the roads are too dangerous to travel on, then I’m calling in. Fortunately, I work with 2 great places of employment, and don’t have to fear being fired for not reporting to work.

Most Adventurous Thing

2007-09-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

Annie asks: "Tell us the most adventurous thing you have ever done! What gave you the courage to do it or try it and how did you feel afterwards?"

I'd have to say getting married and having kids are the most adventurous things I've done...and they have been total adventures! We've had wonderful joyous times, fearful times, times of splurging, times of nip and tuck. It's been the best roller coaster ride anyone could ever hope to ride...and I'd do it again in a heart-beat!

My husband gave me the courage to get married, because I knew He loved God with everything that was in him...and if He loved God like that, I knew he'd love and take care of me and our kids...and he has!

I can't imagine not having kids...ever since I was a kid, I wanted kids :) They have brought so much depth to our life experience. Parenthood is like going from 2-d to 3-d and beyond. Our kids have stretched us, matured us, relaxed us, focused us, taught us, and truly filled that hole in our lives that only they could have filled.

Always easy? No way! Worth it? Most definitely!
I just feel so blessed and honored to be a wife and mother and if I never get another wild adventure in my life, I love the one I'm on!

Faith-lift Fridays

2007-09-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

" The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." Ps. 145: 8-9 NIV

"The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down." Ps. 145: 13b-14 NIV

"The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The Lord watches over all who love him," Ps. 145: 18-20a

What comfort we find in God's Word.

Are you lonely? "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth."

Are you feeling bowed down with the oppression and weight of the daily struggle? Think you've failed? "The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down."

Feeling like no one is tender or caring anymore? "The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love."

Isn't it wonderful to know that the God who created us didn't just leave us to sink or swim? Oh how wonderful that He is near, that He loves us, that He catches us when we fall, that He lifts us up when the weight of life would overtake us. How wonderful, how personal, how caring is this God.

Want to know Him better...read His Word. You will gain strength, peace, comfort, understanding, wisdom and more. Most of all, you will know real love...love that is kind, gentle, compassionate, forgiving. No sin is too great, no fall to low, no gap to wide for His love to reach you.

Call on Him...He always answers.

Encourage others and yourself!

Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

Mr. Crooker

2007-09-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

We’ll have to change Ethan’s name to Mr. Crocker. Mr. Betty Crocker to be exact. His youth group is doing some fundraisers to help offset the cost of youth conference that is coming up. Ethan isn’t going. It would mean missing 3 days of work, plus he would be the only high school boy … possibly the only high schooler going. But, it doesn’t hurt him to contribute to the cause. This past weekend, they furnished the concessions at an auction, and I was asked to donate a couple of pies.

Pies are not my strong suit when it comes to cooking. But Ethan. He makes a wonderful fruit filled pie, so I went ahead and told her to put me down for 2 pies. I bought the ingredients, and Ethan made them. Actually, he made 3. One for us. I shouldn’t have, but I did have a piece. It was wonderful. We will have to remember this, and when we go to a family get together and need to take stuff, I will have Ethan make a couple of pies. A teenage boy, baking pies. Who would have thunk it?

Menu Plan

2007-08-26T15:01:00.000-07:00

Monday
Brandied Peach Chicken
(page 102 Fix-It and Enjoy-It cookbook)
Green salad
Stuffing

Tuesday
Quick 'n' Easy Chili
Corn Muffins

Wednesday
Beef Stroganoff
Lite pears
Green beans
Rolls

Thursday
Crockpot Philly's
Lite Fruit Cocktail
Green Salad

Friday - Sunday
Away Celebrating my mom's 80th
b'day

Faith-lift Fridays

2007-08-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17

"24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."
Jude 1:24-25

Today was a battle...a battle with fear that bordered on terror. I don't know when I developed this fear of flying...I used to love flying...and even today, once we were up in the air, I couldn't help marveling at what I saw down below...and at the actual feat of flying. But the fear was very real and almost debilitating. On the plane, I literally prayed, "Lord, envelope this plane in your arms and keep your angels around us".
And so, tonight I just wanted to say "thanks" (which I will still do)...but in the process of looking for the scriptures to post with my thanks, I came across Jude 1:24-25 and, wow!, did this passage every jump out at me: "Now unto him who is able to keep you from falling..." Very timely passage wouldn't you say?!

And now to the One who did keep us from falling, I say, thanks!
Thanks for my sweet honey and his gentle love and encouragement this morning when I was really begging to stay home and not go....even though I so wanted to be there for my mom's b'day...I really did not want to fly.
Thanks for my sweet sons who had to join Dad and see me off.
Thanks for all of them praying on my behalf today. Thanks for the totally precious love our family shares.
And thanks....for keeping us (fliers) from falling today!
Thanks, from the bottom of my heart!

Texans Still Have It!

2007-07-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

....southern charm and hospitality that is! (Although this hotel I'm in could use a little brush-up) I won't bore you with all the details...suffice it to say it's been a loooong day, I didn't sleep a wink last night, and I had a horrible battle with getting myself onto the plane. But I did get on that plane (big hugs of thanks to my honey for all his sweet kisses, hugs, and encouragement this a.m. and for insisting on seeing me off at the airport) and both flights were actually great! And I made it to my hotel (which smells like mildew in every part of the hotel....ewwww, but not having a car and being on my own, I'm going to stick it out)...ANYHOO...I'm pooped...but needed to run to the Target that was w/i walking distance of the hotel. Well, I chose airport day to break in some new shoes (some days I really wonder about myself...and those days are getting very frequent!)...and instead of switching them out after getting to the hotel, I kept them on and started my trek to Target. BIG mistake...about half way there, I realized I was getting blisters in several places rapidly. So, I "made" my shoes backless by walking on top of the backs...I know wtmi, huh?...at any rate (I really am trying to make this story shorter)...it's hot, it's humid, I'm pooped, and more than a little bedraggled...my feet are killing me and by the time I finished my bit of shopping and am heading back to the hotel...I must have looked quite the sight...because not only did one sweet Texan stop and offer me a ride...but two did!!
I have too much CA in me...and didn't accept the ride (maybe too much pride, too, eh??)...but you know, I absolutely trusted those two...just wasn't sure how to tell my kids their mother accepted a ride from total strangers...so I didn't...but I did thank them and I did smile the rest of the painful way to the hotel...because it felt so good knowing there were still such kind-hearted people out there!
Texans...I wish I had an award to give you today...I also wish I had a way to send those two people a thank you card....but since I don't have either...I'll brag as far as this little blog-wave will carry!
I'm pooped and pained in Texas...but smiling the biggest Texas smile you ever saw!

2007-05-09T01:36:00.000-07:00

The Bear Deluxe Magazine Presents
Doug Fir Fiction Award
Celebrating place-based and environmental fiction writing

Winner: $1000 and national publication in The Bear Deluxe Magazine

Finalists (3-5): $200 and national publication in The Bear Deluxe Magazine

Semifinalists (5-7): Name recognition and strong publication consideration in future issues of

The Bear Deluxe Magazine.

The winner and finalists will be published in The Bear Deluxe Magazine’s special fall 2007

fiction issue made possible in part by a project grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council.

Contest Judge: Gina Ochsner
Ochsner is a life-long Oregon resident and two-time Oregon Book Award winner for The Necessary

Grace to Fall and People I Wanted to Be and is published in The New Yorker, Tin House,

Glimmertrain and The Bear Deluxe Magazine.

The Bear Deluxe Magazine has been recognized by Print magazine, Poets Market, Utne Reader,

Adbusters, the Oregon Arts Commssion and the Oregon Council for the Humanities, among others, for

design and editorial excellence.

Send stories of up to 5,000 words with $15 entry fee to: Doug Fir Fiction Award, payable to

Orlo/The Bear Deluxe Magazine, P.O. Box 10342, Portland, OR 97296. Entries must be postmarked by

June 7, 2007.

Visit http://www.orlo.org/orlo. html (click on the Bear Dexux Magazine image) for complete

guidelines.

2007-02-27T21:18:00.000-08:00

Read Excerpt Here
Devil’s Orchestra
How far would you go to get what you want?

Tab McGrifth- #1 radio personality on the Eastern seaboard. He made his money the old way--by stepping on one person at a time. He's lied, cheated and "misrepresented" whatever needed to be as he clawed his way to the top of the pile. Now the man that taught him everything he knows, his old mentor Whitey Ford, has returned....

Deva- Hip hop princess extraordinaire. Many are under the impression that she is just a gorgeous airhead. But nothing could be further from the truth. With her shrewd business mind and amazing "luck", Deva is worth somewhere in the upper nine digit range. Deva, like all of us, has her faults. She loves the money--and what accompanies it--just a bit TOO much. In fact, she is slap out of control. When an old friend from back home, Ed Burris, confronts her about her lifestyle, things get explosive...

Juan Rodriguez- gay author and proud of it too. With his life partner, Zeus and son, Loam, Juan's life is definitely on track. That is, until Bodie pops back into his life. Bodie. Blond, beach boy tan, Juan's first lover. He put the w-h-o-r in whore...and doggonit if Juan wasn't still feeling him...

And then there's Luke...

Devil’s Orchestra…whose side are you really playing for?

Sydney Molare' Books...Fiction that satisfies the soul...
www.sydneymolare.com

2007-01-01T22:27:00.000-08:00

3 Keys to Dominate Any Giveaway Site

I have been a part of many giveaway sites, and I have run a few of my own. The one question everyone wants answered is,

"How Do I Get the Maximum Number of New Signups when I Join a Giveaway Site?"

And this is a good question because in my experience members either rake in new signups and are thrilled, or they get a small trickle and think the site was a dud.

The reality is, those that rack up new subscribers like points on a pinball machine know the 3 keys to dominate any giveaway site. Now, you do too:

1) Placement near the top of the giveaway - this is a very important factor, and you may or may not have control over it but if you do get a TOP SPOT. In my giveaways, members at the top (even when their giveaway is not as good as some near the bottom) average 10-15 TIMES more signups. Why? Because in tbe online world attention spans are short--most members will only get so far through the giveaway and then leave the site. If you're at the top, ALL of them see your offer.

2) Target your topic - make sure your giveaway is going to attract the types of members you want, and make it specific! Members see 100s of products so yours needs to answer the question: Why should I signup and download YOURS instead of the others I see?

3) Seeing is believing - use professional quality ecovers and graphics. People do judge books by their covers (or ecovers in this case). If they see 3 ebooks with similar topics but one has a top quality professional cover while the other 2 have none or some low quality image, which one do you think they will download? Which one would YOU download? Members assume the one with the best look has the best content (not always true for sure, but perception gets the signups!)

So next time you join a giveaway site, be sure to keep these in mind.

2006-12-30T06:15:00.000-08:00

Contest Alert

Katie Hart is holding a contest on her website where you can win huge prize packs. The packs include the following:

(1)
A Bride Most Begrudging by Deeanne Gist
The Cubicle Next Door by Siri Mitchell
Shivering World by Kathy Tyers
All She Ever Wanted by Lynn Austin
Beyond the Blue by Leslie Gould
CD - My Other Band - Volume One
Four selections from Katie Hart's ARC/galley pile

(2)
Comes a Horseman (hardcover) by Robert Liparulo
River Rising (hardcover) by Athol Dickson
Mark of the Cross by Judith Pella
Three selections from Katie Hart's ARC/galley pile

(3)
A Garden to Keep (hardcover) by Jamie Langston Turner
The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Caught by Neta Jackson
Paper Moon by Linda Windsor
Three selections from Katie Hart's ARC/galley pile

"But how do I win any of these packs?" you ask. Simple! Just tell others about her site, Waterfall Books and the huge book giveaway! You may email your friends, post the announcement on social/dating networks like Myspace and Hi5 or send out bulletins everywhere, etc. It's up to you. Pump out your creative juices to spread the word. Just know your limits so you may not be banned for spamming.

Whenever you've done something to promote Waterfall Books, email Katie (theloneislands@yahoo.com) to let her know. She is giving one point for each promotion you do - two points or more for creative or extra influential ways of promotion. At the end of January, there will be a tally of points and the top 3 highest point getters will receive the prize packs mentioned above respectively!

But there's more! Go to http://zyphe.blogspot.com/ and leave a comment informing Rachelle that you've subcribed to her yahoogroup and you've done what you ought to do (promotion, marketing, etc) and then you'll be entered to win a book from her!

The winner will get to choose any of these 7 brand-new books:

Lasher by Anne Rice
The Feast of All Saints by Anne Rice
Belinda by Anne Rampling
Lakota Dawn by Janelle Taylor
Savage Destiny by Rosanne Bittner
Miracle by Deborah Smith
Tempt Fortune by Hebby Roman

Don't forget to leave your contact info in your comment. She said, she's picking a name from all the entries and post the winner on January 15, 2007.

So, what are you waiting for? Start charming away and keep those subscribers comin'!

Links ideal to include:
http://reviewingchristiannovels.blogspot.com
christiannovels-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

2006-12-18T01:01:00.000-08:00

Paying Markets/Call for Submissions

Men of Integrity
PAY: $50
Typically, our writers are Christian men fairly established in their walk with Christ. We look for stories that illustrate biblical principles, written by men who draw from their everyday experiences and lives. Personal experiences that caused you to grow in your faith, or stories about areas of struggle where God has challenged your thinking and encouraged a change in behavior, are the types of stories that fit best into the Men of Integrity format.
http://www.christianitytoday.com/men/features/guidelines.html

LoveToKnow.com
PAY: $15
An online community of sites that specialize in providing informative, high quality content on more than 40 topics. We are currently seeking writers and editors who have work experience in the following areas:
*Business
*Finance
*Watches and/or jewelry
*Fashion
*Hair, makeup, and skin care
*Teen
*Crafts
*Antiques/Collectibles
*Seniors
*Divorce (going through a divorce does not qualify you as an expert)
Pay is per article (generally $15 for a 650+ word article) and work is part-time, but we ask contributors to commit to writing 10-20 articles per month. In addition to creating your own content, you may be asked to edit articles and product reviews from contributors (additional compensation paid for editing). Interested? Learn more and apply online at: http://www.lovetoknow.com/write-for-us.htm Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, and include which topic(s) in which you are experienced in the qualifications field. In addition, please include at least two short writing samples as part of your application.

Humor Writers
PAY: $15-25/hour
Humor writers wanted for dialogue, characters, one-liners, and games geared to college students and young professionals. Ground-floor opportunity at start-up social networking and collaborative entertainment site. Pays $15-25 an hour. Email clips/samples and resume to mailto:mll2525@yahoo.com

Modern Review
PAY: $150
Our focus is the written art, but we gladly consider any printable form. Our editorial mission is to dispute literary borders on an international stage, to educate, and to foster both an appreciation and desire for a higher standard in the written arts. To make no alliances, and cultivate no preference of one class or movement over another, but to act as a point where artistic integrity meets the risk-taking means which will promote its cause with zeal and diligence. Our desired end is sustained access to a relevant literature, one that refuses to oppose tradition to innovation, the personal to the objective. Ambitious writing is highly esteemed; ‘entertainment’ verse, valued little. Social and political material receives much interest. Nothing is controversial.
http://www.modern-review.com/submissions.html

Write your opinion about our tea for Blog
PAY: $50 per review
Looking for a few people to try a sample tea flower and write a review. Please send a writing sample. http://www.primulatea.com mailto:gigs-246688678@craigslist.org

Parade, The Sunday Magazine
PAY: $2500
Buys 150 features (1,000-1,200 words). Pays $2,500 for one-time and all rights. Kill fee varies. Accepts queries by mail or fax. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Sample copy and guidelines available online. Needs: Publishes general interest (on health, trends, social issues or anything of interest to a broad general audience), interview/ profile (of news figures, celebrities and people of national significance) and "provocative topical pieces of news value." What writers must know: "If the writer has a specific expertise in the proposed topic, it increases a writer's chances for breaking in." 711 Third Ave., New York NY 10017, e-mail mailto:steven_florio@parade.com, http://www.parade.com Weekly for a general interest audience. Query Steven Florio, articles editor.

Hilton Head Monthly
PAY: $.10-.15/word
Buys 225-250 features (800-2,000 words), varied number of columns (800-1300 words). Pays 10¢/word/feature,15¢/word (minimum)/column. Buys first North American serial rights. Makes work-for-hire assignments. Byline always given; 50% kill fee. Accepts queries by mail, e-mail or fax. Accepts simultaneous submissions and previously published submissions. Responds in 1 week to queries, 4 months to mss. Sample copy for $3. Needs: Essays (short, personal), general interest, historical (history only), how-to (home-related), humor, interview/ profile (Hilton Head residents only), opinion (general humor or Hilton Head community affairs), personal experience,travel. What writers must know: "Give us concise, bullet-style descriptions of what the article covers; choose upbeat, proactive topics. Delight us with your fresh (not trendy) description and word choice." 2 Park Lane, Hilton Head Island SC 29928, e-mail mailto:hhmeditor@hargray.com. Monthly covering the business, people and lifestyles of Hilton Head. Query Rob Kaufman, editor.

Physical
PAY: $500 - $1,500
Buys 100-120 features (800-1,800 words). Pays $500-1,500/assigned article, $1,000/unsolicited article. Buys first North American serial and e-rights. Byline always given; 25% kill fee. Accepts queries by mail, e-mail or fax. Accepts simultaneous submissions. Responds in 1 month to queries, 4 months to mss. Sample copy free; guidelines via e-mail. Needs: General interest, how-to (exercise, build muscle, lose weight, etc.), inspirational, personal experience, technical, sports training, nutrition, workouts. What writers must know:"Keep our reader in mind—buyer of sports nutrition and health food, vitamins, and herbal products at General Nutrition CentersÑarticles should promote 'the physical lifestyle' of nutrition and exercise." 11050 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025, e-mail mailto:bbush@physicalmag.com. Monthly for General Nutrition Center gold card club members covering physical fitness, sports nutrition and body building. Query Bill Bush, editor in chief.

2006-09-13T21:09:00.000-07:00

5 Types of Article You Can Write
by David Goldsmith

If you always write the same type of article then you are probably limiting your chances of getting published. Look at your favorite publications and you will see they print a variety of types of article. Here are five of the most popular types.

The ‘How To’ Article

This is a very popular type of article, in which you tell the reader how to do something. It could be how to build a garage, how to write a book, how to sell a house, or how to clean tar off a pair of trousers. These articles tend to be particularly popular because people love to find out how to do something.

When writing how to do something, and if the sequence is important, then it is a good idea to number each step. Remember to keep your instructions simple, yet specific. And you could even use a picture or illustration if the publication allows it.

The ‘List’ Article

The list article is an article that lists several related pieces of information, and is one of the easiest types of article to write. It could be “10 Ways to Save Money”, “5 Flowers to Plant In April”, or “The Best 12 Places to Live in Canada”. A list article should have:

• An introduction.
• The list; each item may be a paragraph or two.
• A conclusion.

The ‘Roundup’ Article

In the roundup article, you provide a roundup of information, statements, or opinions from a variety of sources. You might interview a number of experts, for example, and ask them the same list of questions. In your article you then write a roundup of the answers, e.g.

“Bill Jones, CEO of SHJ Limited, is confident that the market will turn around soon. “Within the next six weeks at most”, he predicted. But Tom Sloane, at Pickwick Associates, disagrees. He explains why…”

The 'Inspirational' Article

Inspiration articles include inspirational narrative, essays, articles on faith and religion, and self-help articles.

Do you know of an issue or concern that affects many people? Think of your own every day experiences. Write about the issue… and help the readers to deal with life and to improve themselves in some way.

The ‘As Told To’ Article

Because many of the people who have outstanding experiences are not writers, there is a market for writing those people’s stories. This is quite similar to ghostwriting, except that in this case the audience knows that you are the writer. In the credits, you would show “By Peter Wallace [subject], as told to Jim Davies…” [writer].

Instead of writing a third-person narrative of the event, the ‘As Told To’ article makes the tale more real and personal by using the first-person.

So next time you are about to write an article, pause… and ask which type of article would best suit your situation and topic. By varying the types of articles you write your writing will also develop a new depth and your articles will be picked up by a much wider variety of publications.

About the Author:

David Goldsmith is a freelance consultant and writer. For more information on writing, he recommends Worldwide Freelance Writer. For more information on freelance writing and a database of more than 1,700 writing markets, visit http://www.WorldwideFreelance.com

2006-07-07T04:46:00.000-07:00

Getting Rid of Cellulite
by Laurel Tevolitz

What is the solution for getting rid of cellulite? It's important to recognize that even the best cellulite treatments are going to be ineffective if you are unwilling to commit to a healthy lifestyle. The main key to reducing cellulite is through exercise via cardiovascular and strength training programs while also establishing a clean and healthy diet.

As we age, our metabolism gradually tends to slow down. The result of this when leading a sedentary lifestyle along with poor diet is an increase in body fat and a loss of muscle. The solution to getting rid of cellulite along with improving our overall state of health is to participate in a program that incorporates both weight and cardiovascular exercises.

Lifting weights promotes the growth of muscle tissue while at the same time, firms up and tones the skin. It also raises your metabolism as the cells contained in your muscles require energy to maintain themselves, which tends to burn more calories even when you are not exercising and resting. Fat is quite the opposite. There is no energy required for them to enjoy a vacation on your body. The only way to get rid of cellulite caused partially by fat is to increase muscle mass and partner it with a cardio program designed to assist the body in gradually decreasing your body fat level.

There are several exercises contained in a weightlifting program which you may target in order to help with getting rid of cellulite for those trouble spots. Some of these include lunges, leg extensions, leg curls, squats and stepping up to a bench. These exercises primarily target the butt, quads, hamstrings and inner and outer thighs which tend to be the areas which hold cellulite in women. But a good strength training program also incorporates the upper body as well, to burn more fat and calories. I highly recommend consulting with a certified trainer (safety first!) that can start you on your way to the solution designed just for you.

As for a cardiovascular program it is important to constantly challenge the body as it readily adapts itself to the same walk or run over and over. Some tips to jumpstart the body into a calorie and fat burning mode are to try changing four things:

The duration of your session.
The speed at which you complete your session.
The length of time you spend actually doing the session.
The intensity at which you do the session. (being at the correct heartbeat level for optimal fat burning)

Another option is to try participating in activities that offer classes such as the Y or a gym. It promotes an alternative to the standard treadmill/machinery and can break up the monotony or boredom associated with keeping committed.

A healthy diet is the other critical part of getting rid of cellulite. The best cellulite treatments need the support of eating right as well as an exercise program. Make selections that include lean proteins such as fish, chicken and egg whites or beaters. Choose low sugar (glycemic) carbohydrates like vegetables, citrus fruits, oatmeal and keep the rice, potatoes and pasta to a minimum. As for fats, stick to nuts and fats that are unsaturated such as olive oil. Stay away from processed foods. Drink lots of water, approximately a gallon a day to flush the body of toxins and assist with fat loss and metabolizing.

So remember, the best cellulite treatments need your help! They can aid in getting rid of cellulite if you pay close attention to and work hard at your diet and exercise program. It is important to take each component slowly, step by step and learn a healthier way that will not only rid your body of this embarrassment, but also give you a better prospect for longevity.

Learn more information about getting rid of cellulite and how they affect the best cellulite treatments at our informative resource: http://reducecellulite.blogspot.com

2006-06-26T21:21:00.000-07:00

How To Make Your Advertising Believable
By Scott Bywater © 2006

Are you frustrated by the fact so many of your competitors are making such outlandish claims it's hard to make your product stand out from the rest?

Have you ever heard claims like:

...Best Lawnmower in the country

...Absolute Lowest Prices In Existence

...Leaves your hair cleaner than any other shampoo

Of course you have. But do you believe them?

Or is there a certain degree of doubt in your mind about their credibility? Or whether they are 'hyped up?'

Think about it. Everybody expects advertisers to exaggerate their claims. To present them in their best light. Which is the exact reason why general statememts are not as effective as...

SPECIFIC STATEMENTS

So...

Rather than saying "Our prices have been reduced,"... instead say... "Our prices have been reduced by 22% to prepare for our end of year stocktake."

Rather than saying "More than 20 varieties of Reebok shoes in stock,"... instead say... "More than 23 varieties of Reebok shoes in stock."

Rather than saying "Our staff are very experienced carpet cleaners,"... instead say... "Our team of 12 staff have a combined experience of cleaning carpets for 63 years."

Rather than saying "Used all over the world,"... instead say... "Used in over 46 countries."

Or, rather than a cleaner saying "We clean your house thoroughly," list every single thing you do.

One more thing, when you give people a specific number, they tend to believe it must be true. So, don't use numbers which are a multiple of 5 or 10. Instead say 4 or 9. It makes it more believable.

Even KFC realises this.

No, they don't have 10 herbs and spices on their special chicken, they have 11. That's a heck of a lot more believable than 10... or heaps, isn't it?

So take a moment now and think about how you can apply what you've learnt and be more specific in your advertising.

About the Author:

Scott Bywater is well known for getting results as a professional direct mail copywriter. And also the author of Cash-Flow Advertising. To get access to his highly prized complimentary copy of '7 Ways To Boost Your Turnover... No Matter What The Economy' (valued at $29.95) and a free subscription to his "Copywriting Selling Secrets" newsletter where you'll discover the truth about why most ads and sales letters don't work (And how to make yours different) scamper over to his web site at http://www.copywritingthatsells.com.au

2006-05-01T23:33:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer Prevention: Lifestyle for Healthy Breasts
By Danna Schneider

It has been estimated that by the year 2020, the number of women who get breast cancer may be as high as 1 in 5. That number is staggering. With the help of a "healthy breasts" lifestyle, you can defy those odds, and help to beat those ominous forecasted statistics. You can help change the future.

Chances are, if you are a woman, or even a man for that matter, you know someone or at least have an acquaintance who has either battled breast cancer, or succumbed to the disease. I am no different.

My Story?

I am 31 years old, and about eight years ago a very dear relative of mine, my aunt, passed away from complications directly related to breast cancer. About 3 years before her passing, she went to the doctor because of a lump in her breast. After going through several rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, we all thought she had beat the cancer and was going to enjoy a long healthy life.

After being in remission for about a year, the cancer returned with a vengeance. Before we knew it, the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes, her back and her liver. She passed away, a shadow of her former self, and a very warm, brave and compassionate person was gone from our lives, just like that.

I wanted to share the story to convey the pressing importance that we take good care of our bodies, and our breasts, so we can help ensure our long, healthy stay here in this world.

Some Lifestyle Tips for Breast Cancer Prevention:

1.) Cut the unhealthy, saturated fats and substitute with healthy fats like olive oil. If you use butter, use organic butter. Actually, it's really best to buy all organic dairy products, since toxins like chemicals and pesticides tend to build up much more in animal fat - which is what dairy is made from, animal fat and biproducts.

2.) Cut out the underwire, push up, and tight-fitting bras. It has been speculated for years that more pressure on your breasts can result in more toxin buildup in the breast area, as well as agitate any tendencies toward tissue abnormalities. Wear looser fitting bras whenever possible. Even better, go braless when you don't need one.

3.) Moderate breast massage may be helpful in breast cancer prevention. Some studies have shown this practice to be therapeutic and speculation is that the massage helps free the breasts of toxins and improves circulation.

4.) Get plenty of antioxidants in your diet. Foods rich in antioxidants, which help defend against cancer-causing free radicals, are as follows:

a. Dark green leafy vegetables
b. Brightly colored fruits
c. Red Wine
d. Tomatoes
e. Garlic
f. Tea (especially green tea)
g. Berries

5.) Moderate exercise, or at least not having a sedentary lifestyle.

6.) Get organic foods whenever possible. The pesticides, chemicals, heavy metals and other general toxins that are in our food, our water and produce just seem to be getting worse. Many speculate the increasing number of cancer cases is partly to blame on the foods we eat and the water we drink. Also try to drink distilled or filtered water rather than spring or tap water.

7.) Smoking and drinking alcohol have both been shown to be possible risk factors, so it goes without saying what needs to be done if either of these habits are a regular part of your lifestyle.

We can never prevent any disease 100%, and it is true that breast cancer has also been linked to a hereditary factor. However, this doesn't mean we can't dramatically bump the odds in our favor and enjoy a disease free, cancer free life.

Visit Natural Breast Enhancement Guide for more info on breast health, and general info on breast enhancement and beautification naturally. Danna Schneider is also the founder of MyBeautySpace Beauty Review Blog.

2006-04-10T01:25:00.000-07:00

How Your Ego Stops You From Being Successful
By Graham Harris and Julie Harris

We all want to be successful. Whether it's getting to the weight you want. Getting the job you want. Writing the book you've always promised yourself you would write. Reaching the golf handicap you want. Ensuring you take exercise every day. Improving your concentration in meditation. Whatever it is we all have something that we want to be successful at. We just want to be a success. We believe that it is part of the human nature to want to be the best at something: to achieve. To have something that we can feel proud of. We may not all measure success in the same way but we want to be successful.

So, if you are having difficulty reaching your goals or you feel you have little or no chance of success in whatever you want to do I would bet that the blockage is being caused by your ego.

Let me explain.

In a recent radio interview in the US by Mike Litman, Tiger Woods explained how Golf is a passion an obsession for him. But later in the interview he said he reached a stage where he was unhappy with the results he was getting on the course so he worked at changing his swing.

Now let's think about this for a moment. Here is a world class golfer, a success in anyone's eyes and because he is not happy with his own achievements he decides to dismantle a major part of his game and rebuild it.

When faced with a similar situation what might you and I say and do? Well it's not that bad. I might lose a couple of games but I win more than I loose. The odds are too high, I might destroy my whole game.etc.etc.etc.

You see what dominates our lives is fear, laziness and procrastination. The strong feeling of I don't want to leave my comfort zone.

That ladies and gentlemen, is your ego. Whenever you become aware of yourself and think what you might lose or what others may think about what you are doing, your ego has just kicked in and spoilt the party.

Successful people have learned to park their ego if they want to be successful.

Let me give you another example.

Michael Jordan, the infamous basketball player, believes that you have to fail in order to be successful- Let me play that past you again- He says that "the reason I succeed is because I have failed over and over in my life". He goes on to say that in his career he has missed more than 9000 shots, lost nearly 300 games and on the 26 occasions that he was trusted to take the winning shot in the game, he missed.

Now look at your life. Do you admit to the fact that you have failed at anything. Do you admit it to yourself never mind others? You see whenever you hide such important data from yourself or others that's your ego kicking in again. It wants you to stay the same. It doesn't want you to take risks or move out of your comfort zone. So, let's look at it. Two very successful sports people are suggesting that what makes anyone successful is to:

1. Get a focus and do something.
2. Don't worry if you fail, you can't win unless you fail

BUT most of all they are saying Look out for your ego.

Whenever you are focussed on something and feel at one with it and all is running well. When you feel 'in the groove'. The moment the thought comes into your head that you are doing well, everything is great; watch out, your ego has just entered the game and you are likely to go off course.

When you are talking to a friend or colleague and that thought comes across your mind; I wonder if they like me or not. Watch out the ego has just taken you off course.

When you are trying to impress someone and you ask yourself whether you sound clever enough or on top of your job. Its just done it again.

You see your ego loves laziness, impatience and indecision. It loves to sidetrack you to something else. It loves the idea that when a project isn't going well that you drop it rather than persevere and get it right in the end. It loves the fact that you don't give yourself enough time on a task to do yourself justice.

Your constant fear of what others will think. Of wanting to please other people. Of wanting to be noticed, are all great tricks of the ego to stop you from succeeding. The ego doesn't like risk taking.

A few years ago Prime Computer Company in the US carried out an interesting piece of research on their retired staff. In a survey they asked the question:

"What do you regret not doing in your life?"

The reply was astounding. Almost all replied, "they didn't take enough risks in their lives. Risks of all kinds, physical, emotional, financial – it didn't matter".

What about you. Are you going to go to your grave saying to yourself I didn't take enough risks in my life. Or are you going to manage your ego and be very successful?

It's up to you.

Graham and Julie, like everyone, have a number of things they regret not doing in their lives. But since they started to meditate they have learned that whatever happened, happened, you cannot turn the clock back. If you are interested in meditation please go to http://www.desktop-meditation.com. It's free.

2006-03-14T15:10:00.000-08:00

Can Being Overweight Be Inherited?
By Jim O'Neill

How many times do you hear overweight people say things like, “I’m only this way because I’m big boned” or “both of my parents are big so it’s in my genes” or even “all of the women/men in my family are overweight”.

So now the question is, if other members of your family are overweight and have always been, does it mean that you might have inherited the “fat” gene and are predisposed to being overweight yourself? Is there anything that can be done about it, or are you doomed to be overweight for the rest of your life?

There are some facts that must be considered before you assign blame for your weight problem to your family tree. Genetics do decide what the shape of you body will be as well as determining your height and possible risks to your health. If there is a history of obesity in your family, you may have a higher potential for it, but it does not mean that you are doomed to a life of plumpness.

The fact is, even though you may have inherited a higher concentration of fat cells from your family gene pool, it is the bad habits that you inherit from them that will contribute more to your weight than your genes.

Here are the facts about what makes you overweight that you must know to help you break the family tradition of living with that extra padding.

For openers, the food choices that you make play a very important role in whether or not you will become overweight. Not knowing what a proper portion size is during mealtime will also hurt your weight. If as a kid growing up, your parents always went back for seconds during meals, you probably will have inherited that habit as well. If your parents always ate high calorie snacks at night while watching TV, well, you get the picture.

Another downfall to losing the weight gain battle is physical inactivity. While just being physically inactive does not add extra fat by itself, most overweight people are inactive and that means you will burn less calories throughout the day. When an inactive person eats even a normal amount of food daily which is usually still more than they need, they are more likely to store the extra calories as fat.

Your age plays a part in your weight also. When people age, they typically become less active. Also, after age 30 or so, an inactive person will lose around ½ to 1 pound of muscle tissue per year. This makes your metabolism slow down being that muscle is active tissue and the more you have, the higher your metabolism, the less you have, the lower your metabolism. This will account for weight gain.

Most overweight people are not that way because of the genes they inherited, but because of the bad habits they inherited as well as ones they developed on their own. According to the American Medical Association, less than 2% of all obesity can be directly attributed to any kind of metabolic disorder or hormone imbalance.

The bottom line is all of the excuses in the world for being overweight won’t take one pound of fat off of you. The whole thing comes down to modifying your lifestyle to one that is conducive to proper weight control. That means eating less than you’ve been used to eating and being more physically active than you’re used to being.

Jim O'Neill gives you tons of valuable information on the subjects of weight loss, fitness, and nutrition to make it easy for you to live a healthy lifestyle. You may sign up for his free newsletter at: http://www.mrgymhealth.com

2006-02-15T03:00:00.002-08:00

Surviving Heartbreak Hell

It's been months since your breakup but you're still stuck in bed grieving over your lost love. You couldn't eat (or stop eating), sleep or work because he's all you could ever think of. You keep repeating your heartbreak mantra, "Why did he leave me...what did I do?" as you succumb to a series of hysterical crying fits. You’re officially a victim of a broken heart.

So how do you smart from a brush-off? Here are some tips to help you survive heartbreak hell.

1. Lose it

Moan. Sob. Let it all hang out. Rid yourself of all-consuming anger and vent every ounce of vitriol in your system. Allow yourself a good wallow. Take a pillow and pretend it was him and do everything with it the way you'd want to get back at him. Throw all his letters and photos away. Call your friends and tell them your heartaches for the 20th time. Grieve your heart out on a guy who was no better than a rotten carcass.

2. Accept what you can't change

So, it's over. This may be hard to swallow but the reality is it's all over and there's nothing you can do about it. You are left without a choice but to believe and accept it. Remember, acceptance is the key to healing.

3. Work It Out

Put your positive attitude at work and head to the gym for some 30-minute work out a day. Exercise won't only sweep the mopey mood away but it will also make you feel and look good as it helps pump out endorphins, the body's natural chemicals that make you feel strong and oozing with sex appeal.

4. Aromatherapy for the heart

Aromatherapy is believed to lift depression and soothe irritable nerves. If you haven't tried it, you should try it now as it works wonders not just to your body but also to your mind and spirit. Here's a quick recipe: Fill a 10-ounce bottle of organic vegetable oil with 9 drops of lavender oil, 15 drops of sandalwood oil, 4 drops of rose essential oil and 10 drops of warm water. Dispense 10 drops of the mixture to a warm bath and you're ready to soak!

5. Put a front if necessary

You may still be experiencing emotional turmoil inside but if you stay confined within the four walls of your room chances are you'll feel even more miserable. Get out and show the world that you're not an emotional wreck. Crack a smile and flash those pearly whites. At first, you may find it awkward putting on a face but soon enough you'd become so good at it you'd be doing it for real, without even noticing it yourself.

6. Adopt a pet

Need some lovin'? Get a pet. Pets aren't only cuddly and affectionate but are also a good diversion of your time and focus. Sure you crave human affection but unlike humans, your pet can't talk so the chances of getting yourself hurt are slim, at least not emotionally.

7. Close the door

Don't be a fool for love. If he keeps calling you to ask for another chance or to tell you that he has someone new but wants to stay as friends, don't bite. You won't only be allowing yourself to fall in love with him again but you're also making yourself believe subconsciously that there's something left in him for you when the truth is, there's none. False hopes mean nothing but emotional boo-boos.

8. Get busy

Discover things you love to do that you weren't able to explore because he didn't approve of them when you were still together. Schedule night-outs with friends and engage in activities you haven't done before. With so many things to occupy your mind, you'd be so busy to even think about your heartbreak.

9. Move on

An end of a relationship doesn't mean an end of you. You don't need a man to make you feel like a real woman. If he can't see what's beautiful and special about you, what kind of man is he? Not someone worth your time, it's clear. Not someone who deserves you either.

Breakups can be very painful and tormenting. Sometimes, it even makes us feel like dying. Funny how we feel so hedonistically wonderful when we are in love then end up feeling gruesomely dreadful after a breakup. Nevertheless, it's a risk that we all have to take. While there's promise in loving, there are no guarantees. So live and love. Get hurt and love again. After all, there's no joy without pain and no bliss without hell.

Rachelle Arlin Credo is a freelance writer and web columnist from the Philippines. She writes on a variety of topics for print and online publications. Feel free to check her website at http://www.rachelle.co.nr