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Winter Hair Care Tips...Treat those tresses special during this harsh weather

Posted by Eddie on November 18, 2008 at 5:11pm

The winter is quickly approaching; which means a change of wardrobe, driving conditions and should mean a change in your hair care regimen. If you were lax in your hair care during the warmer months, you may have survived with minor damage, but if you do not take some serious precautions during the colder months, come Spring, you will definitely regret it. Because the winter months can wreak havoc on your hair, it’s very important to choose low maintenance styles so that you do not have to comb or brush often. It’s also a great idea to incorporate a routine that causes very little stress on your hair such as letting the hair air dry instead of blow drying it; finger combing the hair instead of using an actual comb; or if you do use a comb, use a wide tooth comb. Also, chose good moisturizing hair care products that do not contain mineral oil, paraffin, petrolatum, SLS or SLES, as all of these cause dryness.The harsh cold and frosty winds can cause excessive dryness and dandruff, and if you don’t retain or replenish the moisture in your hair, damage will soon follow. The best way to combat this is by protecting the hair. During the winter, I never leave out of my house without my hair being covered. I generally wear a satin or silk scarf under my winter hat to preserve the style as well as prevent direct contact with the harsh material most hats are made of.In the winter the air becomes extremely dry and harsh; inside and outside. In order to retain moisture in your hair during the day, it is good to use a humidifier to emit humidity in the air inside of your home or office. This will not only combat dry and brittle hair, but can help prevent or minimize dandruff.Many women opt to wear protective styles during the winter. Protective styles are styles that guard the ends of the hair from the elements; buns, braid extensions, and weaves are a few protective styles to consider. Each of these styles are generally low maintenance, and if maintained properly will allow you to preserve as much of your hair as possible throughout the winter months.If you choose to wear a bun, it’s important to make sure that the hair is not pulled back too tightly, as this may cause stress on the hair line. It is also a good idea to take the bun down every night and lightly mist the ends (about the last 2 inches of hair) with a good moisturizing spray such as Growth by Sweet Nature by Eddie; and then lock in that moisture with a heavy oil such as castor oil. This will leave the hair super soft, strong and moisturized in the morning.Braid extensions are also a great choice for winter months. If you follow these simple tips, not only will you preserve your hair, but you will have much stronger, softer and healthier hair come Spring. If you are going to use synthetic braiding hair such as yaki, kanekelon or other synthetic fibers, it is best if you soak the hair in apple cider vinegar and then rinse in cool water before getting your extensions put in. Synthetic braids come coated with a chemical that causes our hair to become dry; this will strip the chemical away. Another way to reduce dryness is by spraying the hair with a braid spray every day, again the Growth Spray by Sweet Nature is an excellent braid spray. You don’t have to drench the hair; a fine mist throughout the extensions will suffice.Weaves are considered protective only if they are sewn in and your own hair is cornrowed, out of harm’s way. In this case, the only thing that is essential to retain moisture is to make sure that it is replenished on a regular basis. Depending on the quality of the weave, it’s a good idea to run water through the hair on a regularly, followed with a good moisturizing spray.Regardless of which protective style you chose to rock during the winter, it’s important to make water your best friend; drink plenty of it and let it run through your hair often. You don’t have to shampoo your hair every time you get it wet, but just letting water run through your hair will restore lost moisture. When I wear braid extensions, I let water run through my braid every other day; although I wash them only once a week. I also try to kick up my water intake to no less than sixty or so ounces a day.The best way of all to combat winter damage is to be proactive. If you start out with your hair strong and healthy before the winter, it will be a lot easier to maintain and preserve during winter. Adopt a weekly routine of washing with a moisturizing shampoo void of SLS and SLES; a good deep conditioner, and good moisturizer that does not contain mineral oil, petrolatum or paraffin, as these ingredients lead to dryness.

Custom centerpieces for your next baby shower....

Posted by Lauren Dillard-Shoffner on November 18, 2008 at 3:08pm

FREE washcloth lollipop with every order!Gift the Bambino has a huge selection of custom gifts for baby! Each gift, such as our diaper cakes, lollipop bouquets and baby gift cupcakes include a selection of useful items for baby like diapers, washcloths, blankets, socks, toys, burt's bees baby bee products and more! Visit www.giftthebambino.com today for gift options with secure online ordering, Free shipping in the Continental U.S. and Hawaii and options for every budget. Prices start at just $11. Custom cakse orders start at $25 for a one-tier cake!Also see our shop on ETSY!www.giftthebambino.etsy.comBambinoPop Bouquet

Bambino Cupcakes

Simply Gorgeous baby blue cake, wrapped with tulle & ribbon:

Before it's wrapped:

Ahoy Baby Cake

All-in-one Basket

Cute Lil' Muffins

Thanks for looking!

Bathing Beauties: Body care during your bath

Posted by Sheya on November 18, 2008 at 5:19am

The bath is not just the place where we clean ourselves. It is also where many of us relax. And one of the best ways to relax is to take a Bubble Bath. However, if you want to really be assured of taking a soothing, healthful bath, one where no harmful ingredients have crept into the water that can cause problems with your skin or body, one of the best things you can do is to create a homemade bubble bath. This will not only help enhance your skin, but it will also create a soothing and uplifting feeling of calm and relaxation that is helpful to your mind as well.When you create your own bubble bath you know that you are taking better care of your body because you are not using the chemicals that can be found in other bubble baths. Additionally, you know that your concoction is fresh, that it hasn’t sat for who knows how long on some shelf somewhere. And when you create your own bubble bath, you naturally learn about the different essential oils and products that can help you better care for your body in and out of the bath.One of the main ingredients in a homemade bubble bath is an essential oil of some sort. There are many oils that have many different purposes. There is no need to add more than a few drops to your bubble bath, as all oils are rather potent. Allowing your body to relax is part of taking proper care of the body. Soothing relaxation helps the nervous system and has many other health benefits as well, including stress reduction and the control of stress-related conditions like acid reflux. The bath is a perfect time to do this, and many women bring books with them to better help them relax during bath time. The right essential oils can contribute to this.Or you might select oils for the way they smell. You can choose a scent that you like best from among oils like lavender, rosewood, sandalwood, chamomile, and myrrh, all considered soothing.It is also important that your body feel energized at times and uplifted. This contributes to mental health and well being as well. It is very difficult to take proper care of the body when the mind is unhappy. Some of the essential oils that can help you with this care of the body are eucalyptus, spearmint, peppermint, and lemon oil. Additionally, eucalyptus can help your body fight cold symptoms, as it reduces congestion. Many people who create their own bubble baths actually make one for relaxing and one for revitalizing, in order to have what the body needs on hand.Please visit our website www.naturallynurturingbeauty.comOther oils are especially good at softening the skin. The skin is the largest organ in the body, and taking care of the skin is necessary to the proper care of the body. Almond oil and coconut oil are both excellent skin care choices. Almond oil has almost no smell to it, so it does not conflict with any oil you add for scenting purposes. Coconut oil has a nutty and floral fragrance which can help you feel as though you are in an exotic garden. However, it is possible to find scents that complement the coconut oil and provide other effects. In fact, many homemade bubble bath recipes call for the combination of different oils for better effect.In addition to oils, there are other ingredients that are necessary to make homemade bubble bath. Many of these are found easily and relatively inexpensively at any Bath or Beauty store, such as distilled water, castille soap and liquid glycerin. They are necessary to help create the bubbles, add a liquid form to the bubble bath and to provide a solution for mixing. None of these substances is generally harmful, and they add a great deal to the bubble bath mixture, as they are clean and can be used to clean the body as well as to create bubbles to sit in.It is easy to improve the care your body gets during a bath when you create your own bubble bath to help you better cope with the general stresses and vagaries of life

Beauty Tips for Flattering Feet

Posted by Sheya on November 18, 2008 at 5:17am

You jam your feet into fashionable shoes, kick them around, stub their toes, ignore their nails and demand that they carry you around all day. No wonder they look a little worse for the wear. Luckily, there are plenty of simple, inexpensive tricks you can use to have your feet looking and feeling their best in no time at all.There are so many elements of everyday living that are absolutely torturous for your feet. Standing all day, too-small shoes, stuffy boots, and exposing them to the locker room floor at your local gym are examples of scenarios to which most women can relate. Feet are often taken for granted until they start to hurt and reject the burdens you place on them, so think of taking care of your feet now as an investment against problems in the future.If you’ve ever had a professional pedicure, you know how amazing it feels to have your feet taken care of: soaking, exfoliation, moisturizing and maybe even massage. The best part is you can recreate this experience at home with only a small investment of time, money, and resources.Begin by removing any old nail polish with a remover-soaked cotton swab and then soaking your feet in a tub of relaxing, hot water. Toss in some bath or Epsom salts to increase the pleasant feeling. If you have a home foot bath with bubbles or jets, that’s even better. Soak for at least five to ten minutes; the heat will promote blood circulation in your feet and soften your skin and you can use the time to read, watch television or just lean back and relax.When you’re done soaking, use a small brush to buff one foot at a time, removing dead skin and softening your feet. Let each foot go back into the water after you’ve finished brushing.Use a dollop of any sugar or salt scrub (any products that contains natural product with no water no chemical perseverance) to further soften any rough spots like your heels or the sides of your toes. When you’ve massaged the sugar or salt scrub into your feet, take a pumice stone to finish off any lingering rough skin. This is a great tool, so take your time and rinse your feet when you’re done.Feeling good by now? There’s more. Remove your feet from the water and dry them with a soft towel. Rub your feet with some of your favorite body butters or body souffles. Nurturing Beauty Natural Healing Balm www.naturallynurturingbeauty.com/catalog/i21.html may be particularly soothing and relaxing, especially if you have willing partner to handle this step for you. Either way, it feels marvelous.After you’ve finished massaging your feet, it’s time to add a little style. Trim and shape your nails with clippers and a file, and then use a cuticle stick to gently push back your supple cuticles. If you have a cuticle trimmer, you may want to scale away excess cuticle skin, although it’s imperative to do this carefully to avoid damaging the cuticle.Once your cuticles are under control, you will want to even out the surface of your nail by applying a clear or opaque base coat. This will help hide any ridges or lumpy areas that might show up if you applied nail color directly to the affected area. When the base coat is dry, add a coat of your favorite nail color. Choose something soft and light for a conservative look or something bold and daring for more flair. Whatever your choice, it’s a good idea to apply several coats to improve the durability of your finish. Clean up any messy areas as you go, using a small cloth or cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to dissolve stains that may have been deposited around the edges of your toe nail. An additional coat of clear sealer will prevent chips and scuff marks from harming your pedicure masterpiece.That’s it! You’re ready to strap on a pair of open-toe sandals or to pad around the house in your bare, and very fashionable, flattering feet.Looking pretty is one element of great feet. The other part is keeping your feet healthy. Wear supportive, well-fitted shoes, wash and dry your feet carefully to avoid fungal and bacterial problems, and mention any significant problems, such as cuts and scrapes on your feet not healing well as that could indicate a more serious problem such as diabetes.For more information on using on natural products please visit our website at www.naturallynurturingbeauty.comSheyaCreate Your Own Definition of Beauty "Naturally"

The most important way to advertise during this economy

Posted by Richelle Shaw on November 18, 2008 at 1:28am

The most important way to advertise during this economyEverybody is trying to steal recession proof your business but they are not giving you concrete things to do right now.Here is the list.1. Don’t stop marketing!2. When you do buy advertising, make sure that you are using direct response techniques.A brief example:My new coaching client Stephanie participated in a “combo” special marketing program. First, Stephanie’s company sells beautiful high end handbags, in multiple colors and textures. A women’s dream! Check out her website at http://www.micis-boutique.com/.Stephanie is really excited about what can happen with this program. It includes, an email blast to over 80,000, a full page ad on a digital magazine and a full page ad in the print magazine. Sounds like lots of exposure and she is waiting for her website to start sending orders!So here is the prescription to make sure that this is going to work for her. Breaking the questions into 2 different categories.Maximizing Sales1. Designing your site appropriately for fast loading.2. Monitoring things – making sure that the website has your best deals ready for buyers3. Adding a special urgency message to the website so that the people visiting will buy immediately4. Capturing the data from those that are not ready to buy just yet, but want to come back and browse. Getting their information so that we can follow up with them.5. Adding upsells to the check out and thank you pages to take advantage of the shoppers in a buying mode6. Making sure the shipping package includes coupons and discounts for other services especially for the holidaysKnowing your numbers7. Proper tracking codes on each media so that we know which media – the email, print magazine or the digital magazine worked the best8. Knowing the numbers! How many bags do you need to sell to make your money back?Advertising again? During these economic times, only proven strategies should be used. Only media that you have used before and experienced a high ROI – return on investment should be used. Most entrepreneurs are not using this method. They like to hear the phone ring, or they are looking at the increased traffic to their website. Look – you can not deposit the good feelings, the hunches or the traffic. Only money is allowed.Well, Stephanie is a fast learner but had not considered the info above. Especially not how many bags you need to sell to make your investment back. This number is KEY.When deciding advertising to purchase, run these numbers first. Advertising is only expensive when it does not work. As long as it works, it is the best way to get new lifelong customers. But if you don’t know the numbers, it is like running through the house with a butcher knife… very very dangerous.Business Women of Color Coach!Richelle Shawwww.womenofcolorcoach.org

How do I wear that trend…big purses

Posted by Ashia R. Sims on November 17, 2008 at 10:53pm

As it stands, the large purse trend is not going away any time soon. Women seem to really enjoy the opportunity to wear a large fabulous bag and include all of their fabulous necessities in it. Now, you have to be careful when you venture into the large purse territory. Not everyone can just go out and buy a large purse and look fabulous with it. There must be some things taken into consideration when purchasing a large purse.1. Wearability. When you see the purse, try it on. Put it on your shoulder or arm the way you typically wear a purse and see how it looks. A purse should compliment you. It shouldn’t make you look heavy or dwarf you.2. Ease of use. Before you buy the purse, check it out. Look inside and see if there are compartments, zippers or hidden spaces inside the purse. Make sure you can fully operate the purse before you leave the store. One thing about larger purses is that they may have more contraptions than small purses. Don’t get home with that fabulous purse and not be able to use it to its fullest. Large bags should be utilized fully!3. Weight. If you tend to put a lot of stuff in your purse, you may not want one that is heavy while it’s empty. Be realistic about the weight of the purse. Don’t give yourself back problems by carrying around a heavy purse.Those are just a few things to keep in mind when joining the big purse trend. I am a fan of the large purses myself but I have to be careful not to get a purse that will add extra volume to me. If you are ever in doubt, put it down and walk out. Don’t buy something you’re not totally sure about. Yes that rhymes!www.cluelessfashionista.comFashion clues for the everyday fashionista

SHARE YOUR STORY

Posted by Tonya Shirelle on November 17, 2008 at 9:44pm

Do you have an interesting story of how the 2008 presidential campaign and election made an impact on you life? On November 4, 2008, Barack Obama made history being elected as the first African American president of the United States. History was also made by those voting in this election. Many families grouped together with several generations to witness this historical moment. Throughout the campaign robust dialogue ensued in every imaginable location. Share your story….Infinite Xpression Publishing is taking submissions forA Dream……No Longer Deferred (Premiering January 2, 2009)This book will feature an interview with Michelle Obama as well as narratives from several celebrities, people working closely with the Obama campaign and possibly you.To have your submission considered submit your story (maximum 1000 words) by November 30, 2008. Be sure to include contact information.Pre-order your copy today $19.95 plus shipping www.ixpulishing.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM MICI'S BOUTIQUE..RECEIVE 15% OFF JUST FOR VISITING THE SITE---- IMMEDIATELY!!!

Posted by kimirhochelle on November 17, 2008 at 7:03pm

RECEIVE 15% OFF JUST USE CODE: ULEMAIL
TO SEE THE ENTIRE HANDBAG COLLECTIONGO TO WWW.MICISHANDBAGS.COM

TO SEE THE ENTIRE LINE.. GO TO WWW.MICIS-BOUTIQUE.COM

How to create a media list on a small budget

Posted by Ashia R. Sims on November 17, 2008 at 4:17pm

IntroductionMedia lists are an invaluable tool when promoting yourself or your business. It helps to have a database of the different media outlets that relate to your industry of choice. Creating a media list can be a tedious process but when done correctly can be useful for years to come. Once it is created, it will only need updating which is much less work.Step 1Start with publications that you know. You should be aware of the different publications that target your industry. Make a list of those publications.Step 2Go to the public library. Many of the larger public libraries have current media directories in their reference section. Set aside a few hours to go through the directories and write down all of the publications that will fit your media list. Use the ones on the list you initially made as a reference point. Make a note of deadlines for each publication. Look for websites and employee lists to help you make your list as specific as possibleStep 3Verify the media list that you’ve created. Contact each of the publications on the media list to get the correct name and email address for the reporter you should contact. You want to find out who covers the beat the most closely relates to your specific needs.Step 4Keep your list updated. Now that you’ve created a list, make sure to keep it updated and current. A current media list will be helpful when you need to incorporate the media into your marketing and public relations plans.www.cluelessfashionista.comFashion clues for the everyday fashionista

What Is your Favorite Holiday Dish for ThanksGiving?

Posted by Omitunde on November 17, 2008 at 2:30pm

My favorite is Cornbread Dressing! I learned to make my mother's dressing from "Scratch" as they say and I am the only in my family that can make it!I make the cornbread, I make my own broth and I get the whole family involved in chopping the veggies and preparing other dishes. At my house we celebrate the Harvest Season with a Harvest Meal. It is truly a time of being thankful as a family for everything about our lives that we take for granted.Tell me what is your favorite meal and I may share my recipe for Cornbread Stuffing....Omitunde, Publisher of African American Family ConnectionAn online magazine about African American Family values and community.Visit AAFC for the latest issue each month and a copy of "The Ripple Effect".

I am looking for you if you...

Posted by Dana Rankin on November 17, 2008 at 5:45am

Want to start a floral design biz for as little as $15?Perhaps you are interested in floral design? You could design flowers for weddings and other events.how about Gift baskets? like to dropship gift baskets? or you can even make your own! http://www.starlitegardens.biz/gardenbaskets/holidaybasketmenu.htm example of our holiday baskets.We also have full line of good quality world of products garden and aroma gifts. You get the full size website. You order with us you get 40-45% commission. 25% commission on gift baskets. You can earn 5% on downline sales. If you have your own wop account you can have our website and do your own orders. You can gain your own people for your own downline they can order from you. We don't take your commission from your reps. You have the freedom to place your own orders if you have your own account. Or you can freely order with us and orders are placed normally within 48 hours.We need hard workers looking to focus not just have another "affiliate program". We want people who are going to advertise their business and be proud of it.You get a full size website not an affiliate link. You can add all your affiliates and other businesses on the full size website. http://www.starlitegardens.biz/ Your full size website is over 800 pages and updated monthly. Hosting and domain name comes with website.You get a catalog to show your garden waresWe have gift cards for our gift items (you normally pay $2000+ for a gift card redemption site)from time to time you earn products.We have a yahoogroup for support. You can advertise your other businesses to a minimum.We from time to time give out samples of our productsWe offer the world of products gift cards great way to sell to customers!We have garden bags for samples. You can sell or buy at a discount rate. Or give your info for the bags.You earn bonus bucks for recruiting others. ( You can spend the bonus bucks on products from the website)You receive your orders by paypal your commission comes first. Then you place the orders with your leader. Balance in paypal is your commission. No waiting for monthly commissions. You get your commission first!Your customers are your customers if they happen to order from us again you receive the commission.We have a recruiting special sign up 3 people and earn a $25 gift card!Soon we be offering the floral Design classes online in our chat room and website. $500 class you get for free with membership. You may have to get a few supplies to practice. Those who don't have time for chat can read the website information. We can meet separately if needed. Once you learn floral you be able to decorate for weddings, parties, etc. We will also do classes on gift basket wrapping.To get started you order your website $35 (grand opening special) one time payment for a year or-- $15 down and $5 a month. $15 down helps pay for your domain name for your website so we can get you started right away. You can choose the plan that is best for you. http://www.starlitegardensclub.info/joinus2.htm If you are creative, hard working, and wanting a career with floral design, gift basket making, and or garden gifts come and join us! We plan to have fun!Nothing you got to lose! You get much more for your money! floral classes, gift baskets, garden decor, aroma, holiday and full size website with your own domain.Please visit my site to sign up. Look in right hand bottom where it says join here! http://www.sweetwatergardensngifts.com

On the Radio!

Posted by Dominique on November 17, 2008 at 3:16am

I will be on Blogtalk Radio this Tuesday November 18th, 2008 at 8pm Est. with Ashea Goldson. She will be interviewing me about my new book "The Tension Reliever" and my magazine "From A Writers POV" You can view the details of this interview here: http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/dominiqueontheradio.htm and view the call in number to talk with me personally. This interview will be live and you can tune in by click on the link above.also*"The Tension Reliever" has been released on ebook through my website. You can purchase this book today here: http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/apps/webstore/ *I'm also releasing the personal journal of "How to Keep God in your Life" on my birthday 2/4/09. It will only be sold on my website.------------------------------I'm starting a new newsletter called "Hot Off the Press" This newsletter will consist of inspirational messages along with great info about my books, websites etc. This newsletter is free and is received monthly through the mail. If you are interested in receiving this free newsletter monthly, please sign up here: http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/hotoffthepress.htm I look forward to being able to inspire you!!!!!!------------------Don't forget...2/FOR $20You can now purchase my books here: http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/apps/webstore/Get both books for $20.00/ $10.00 each SIGNED! NO SHIPPING ADDED!Also available at....http://www.barnesandnoble.com/http://www.amazon.com/“The Tension Reliever”Volume 1A Poetry CollectionBy: Dominique L. WatsonMy3rd book coming next month!Check out my forums as well to see what I'm talking about!!!!http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/forums.htmI truly appreciate all the support!!!http://dominiquewatson.webs.comDominique L. Watson

How To Juice Up Your Wedding Planning Business

Posted by PaulaNQ on November 16, 2008 at 11:03pm

With all the entrepreneurial women here I wanted to be sure to share this article that I recently wrote for E-Zine Articles.You can read the full article at:http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Juice-Up-Your-Wedding-Planning-Business&id=1650378Please read, rate and comment as you feel moved.One of my specialties is coaching businesses on how to creatively integrate network marketing as an additional revenue stream and value add for their clients.Please feel free to contact me if you are trying to figure out if a network marketing opportunity is a good fit for your business. I have a lot of experience and expertise in that area.Sincerely,

Parenting AS Partners and Sharing the Children for the Holidays

Posted by Omitunde on November 16, 2008 at 9:52pm

How are all of the single moms preparing for the holidays? Are you sharing the visiting and dinner plans with your ex? Are you working together to make alliances for the holidays for the sake of peace.We all try to recreate our memories of holiday celebrations through our children. When you have multiple households and multiple sets of parents and grandparents, it can be difficult to compromise.The key word is compromise.Where will the family eat dinner on Thanksgiving Day?Whose house will they wake up on Christmas Day?Who will they go to church with?If you are having a challenge and needs solutions, let's dialog, let's engage, let's work it out. That is what we are here for.Omitunde, Publisher of African American Family ConnectionAn online magazine about African American Family values and community.Visit AAFC for the latest issue each month and a copy of "The Ripple Effect".

GET ATTACHED TO BEING UNATTACHED

Posted by Tamar on November 16, 2008 at 8:56pm

Although I was not aware of Antique Furniture while I was buying houses, I still did not feel comfortable in spending money to buy furniture, when it would only depreciate in value. I believe if it were not for my dad specifically, and other friends and family giving me different pieces of items, I would probably only have the two pieces of furniture that I purchased, during the four years that I bought houses. I mention my father especially, because he used to bring over items that were thrown out by people in his neighborhood. I did not care where the items came from, because I knew I wanted to continue to invest my money in as many assets as possible, and furniture was at the bottom of my investment list. Ironically, while I was unattached to the furniture, I was very attached to owning the houses. Being a multi-property owner was a big accomplishment for me. I felt that all my hard work paid off. While it took the realization that the bank owned the properties until I paid off the mortgage, and the responsibility of having my son to help me to open my eyes, I finally had to change my mindset, and detach myself from the California Real estate. I mentioned this as an example that even I had to learn how to change my way of thinking in certain areas.Whether it is furniture, shopping, smoking, drinking, etc, it can greatly deter you from your path to wealth and prosperity. Sometimes it takes an outlet for you to change your mindset. For me it was wanting to be home full time to raise son, and for others that drink or smoke, it could be that feeling of walking into his or her haven, filled with beautiful antique furniture. We have a friend that mentioned that she had not had a cigarette for 6 hours. She was so excited with the idea of collecting and investing in antiques that she forgot to smoke. Detaching herself from this habit would actually save her hundreds of dollars that she could invest in assets that she would own out right, free and clear. The same is true for those buy modern furniture. By not spending his or her money on furniture that is depreciating in value and investing in antique furniture, he or she will not only save the money , but earn money as well.If you want to be successful in investing into antiques, gold, silver, etc, it is “IMPERATIVE” that you change your mindset and start doing that math. For example, Let’s say that Sarah and Daniel decides to invest in a piece of Period furnitureYear 1- Buy Antique Period Federal Bed for $500.Year 2- Antique Bed is worth $600Year 3- Antique Bed is worth $700Year 4- Antique Bed is worth $800Year 5- Antique Bed is worth $900Year 6- Antique Bed is worth $1000Year 1- Buy new Bed $500Year 2- new Bed is worth $400Year 3- new Bed is worth $300Year 4- New Bed is worth $200Year 5- New Bed is worth $100Year 6- New Bed is worth $000While this chart speeds up the process on both ends, the principles remain true. You not only gain money from buying antiques, but the purchase of the antiques also prevents you from losing money. Year two is net $200, year three $400 and so on. The reverse is also true. Buying new furniture, you net loss is $200 per year, because you are not only losing out on the profit, but you are actually going further in the red with each passing year.I challenge you to detach yourself from something that is causing you to spend rather than invest. For example, if you like to shop daily or spend money, take a week off. If you smoke a pack of cigarettes a day, skip a day. If you have furniture or a piece of furniture that is worthless or decreasing in value, sell them or it. Each day you hang on to it, you are losing money twice over. As mentioned in an earlier challenge, invest the money in an item that is appreciating in value. Have a blessed rest of the week.Shalom,Tamar

3 People Who Will Destroy Your Business

Posted by Donna Maria Coles Johnson on November 16, 2008 at 8:01pm

Avoid These Undesirable Business Personality TypesIn my work coaching Indie Business owners, I have seen a lot of people make a lot of mistakes. I've made many mistakes myself, so I'm especially good at helping my clients avoid the pitfalls that can quickly destroy their business.

At one time or another, I have been all of the business people I don't want to be, and made all of the business mistakes I don't want to make. This post offers tips to help you avoid 3 destructive business personality types and the mistakes they make.1. Holly HobbyistHolly Hobbyist is creative and fun. She is naturally gifted and talented and is the person you call when you need to add some flair to your life. If Holly is your friend, you are never without a personal fashion consultant or interior designer. Throughout her life, Holly has enjoyed all kinds of hobbies. One day, she realizes that so many people ask her for help that she could start charging a fee. So that's what she does.Holly knows that her services are every bit as good as the people that command a high fee, but because she's a "hobbyist," Holly feels guilty when she charges what "professionals" charge. Holly decides that, if she charges less than she's worth, she can make it up on volume. So she prints up brochures, sets up a website and in about 24 hours, she's in business. Within a few months, she realizes that she's working harder than her competitors and for less money. She enjoys her work, but she knows she'd enjoy it more if she charged what she is worth. But now, she's stuck into a pricing structure that people have come to expect and she fears that raising her prices will send prospects running in the opposite direction.--> Avoiding being Holly Hobbyist begins with adopting a business mindset. This means abandoning any sense of guilt that you are now charging for something that you once gave away for free. To make sure this mindset stays with you, join at least one business networking group or local chamber of commerce and then use the benefits and participate. Surrounding yourself with other business people will help you take yourself more seriously.--> Charge what your products and services are worth from the very beginning. Research what others charge for similar products and services, assess what is fair in your particular case (considering things like educational level, experience or quality) and charge what covers your costs (all of them) plus a reasonable amount to make a fair profit that not only keeps you in business but also pays you. (You may not be able to write yourself a weekly check at first, but that should absolutely be one of your first goals.)2. Credit Card CandaceCredit Card Candace is excited and confident that it won't take her very long to get her new venture off the ground. She may or may not have money of her own, but that doesn't matter because she's got credit cards. Her business planning is sketchy because her credit will make up for any unanticipated events. Candace charges this and that here and there, and before she knows it, she's run up a balance that has fees she didn't expect. To compound the problem, she makes one late payment. In response, the bank increases her interest rate and imposes a $35 late fee.Candace can cover the late fee and continue to make payments that leave enough room at the top to cover her continued need for supplies. But over time, the credit card balance hanging over her head begins to take a mental toll. She loves what she does all day, but at night, she has trouble sleeping because the burden of overextending herself is so heavy.---> Avoiding being Credit Card Candace by adopting a frugal mindset. And I don't just mean frugal, I mean cheapskate frugal. I saved $2.50 on cold medicine last night using a coupon. $2.50 is not going to change my business or my household much, but if I save $2.50 on every item I buy for my home and business, I'm saving thousands of dollars a year. (More couponing and rebate tips here and in a video here.)--> Pinch every penny, and I mean that literally. Save money each week so that you can cover at least part of your costs in cash. Assess whether you really need what you are about to charge on a credit card or whether you can get the same thing later, or barter for it. The bank may be extending you credit, but they don't have to be in control of that credit. You do. Pay your credit cards, not according to the bank's schedule, but according to your schedule. Use online payment systems to make a payment at least once a week. Don't wait until the end of the month to pay if the balance is accumulating.3. DIY GuyDIY Guy is very smart. He's a lone ranger and has done so well in traditional careers that he has seldom needed to reach out for help. He approaches each project with gusto and vigor and maintains as much control as possible. After all, no one can do anything quite like him. Guy has great products, so he's confident that the money he's saving by doing everything himself will allow him to compete more effectively.Rather than hire a website designer or buy an inexpensive template, Guy reads "dummy" books and codes his site himself. He takes his own product photos, writes his own copy, creates his own logo and site banner and sends buyers to PayPal. While there's nothing wrong with Guy doing some things himself to save money, doing all of them makes his new website look amateurish and uninviting. And of course, he wonders why he's not making much money.--> You may be able to do it all in a traditional job, but when you're Indie, you can't do everything yourself. For one thing, you'll find yourself working so much in your business that you won't be working onit. Working in your business means spending all day in the minutiae and never assessing the big picture. Guy is so busy learning HTML code and figuring out how to take product photos that he forgets all about making a profit doing what he's really good at.--> Don't be so busy doing everything yourself that you don't have time to sell anything. A business can recover from a lot of things. Failure to sell anything is not one of them.It's tough to launch, own and manage a business of your own, but once you decide to pursue your dreams, you must shed old mentalities that don't work in the business world.Holly, take yourself seriously.Candace, get a grip on your finances.Guy, learn to delegate.What do you think?When I look back through the years, I see a little of myself in Holly, Candace and Guy. But the only reason I'm still in business today is because I replaced those personalities with ones that empowered me to become profitable and enjoy my life at the same time. Do you see yourself here? What are your questions or comments on this topic? If you have overcome Holly-itis, Candace-itis or Guy-itis, use the comment section to share your tips and suggestions so others can follow in your footsteps.Related Posts3 Hot Tips to Kick Start Your Business Survival of the Fittest You Have to Touch Home PlateFor more success tips, subscribe to Indie Business Blog today.If you like Indie Business Blog, please share the home page with your friends using this link: http://tinyurl.com/6l5h79.Connect with me on Linked In.Join my Twitter circle.

BAS Holiday Book Fair Invitation

Posted by Diane on November 16, 2008 at 5:57pm

Over 25 authors will read, display, and sign their books.

CLICK GRAPHIC FOR LARGER VIEWhttp://www.basbookfair.com

How to Turn Your Financial Troubles Around

Posted by Blondie L. Clayton on November 16, 2008 at 2:04am

Money worries have many different voices: “How am I going to pay my phone bill? My lights are almost two months behind. The rent is due. What are we going to do about the mortgage? We don’t have money for football uniforms. No field trip. That cost money. No, you can’t have that, it cost more than what we have in our budget. They’re coming to take the furniture back; our payment is overdue. The kid needs her braces removed but the dentist won’t do it unless we pay the rest of the money we owe. I’ve lost my job. I’m sorry, honey, they have downsized my position. If I want to keep my job I will have to take a cut in pay. How can I afford these child support payments? I can’t take this any more. What are we going to do?”A mind that is cluttered with money worries may be flooded with one or two or all of these thoughts at one time or another. Maybe you were there once in your life, maybe not. Most people with financial troubles are anxious, confused, angry, harbor feelings of hopelessness, insecurity, and uncertainty about future financial outcomes. Consequently, this state of mind affects everything, including work performance.It’s time for a financial assessment. Is your trouble because you have maxed out your credit cards? Maybe you have more month than money. Do you have medical expenses? Are you sick and can’t work? Have you lost your job, or been downsized? Where did the shortage originate?Once you have assessed where the problem lie, then you can look at remedies. Money troubles in plain simple English are not enough money to cover your present lifestyle. The causes may or may not be within your control.When the funds are low, the logical answer would be to make more but what most people do is fret about it. Some spend more time worrying about what they don’t have while others add on a second job.Money troubles are not going to go away without something changing. Worry will not make up the deficit but initiating a plan of action will.Step IMake a list of all of your monthly household livingexpenses: mortgage, rent, utility bills, etc.Step IIList Your Debts (creditors you owe)Step IIIList your entertainmentStep IVList miscellaneous (lunch, coffee, snacks, etc.)Step VWrite in how much you pay on each. Total thatamount.Step VIList your sources of income (job, spouse, etc.). Takethe total from this and subtract it from what you spend onhousehold, debts and entertainment. If that figure showsyou are not covering your expenses, look back at yourexpenses; see what you can eliminate from entertainment.Make a list of other areas you are expending money,such as lunch, dry cleaning, hair cuts, etc.Try taking your lunch from home rather than buying lunch. The average lunch cost about $7.00. That $7.00 for five days comes to $35.00 a week, totaling $140.00 a month. Imagine if you, your wife and children spent the same amount weekly,that would amount to a partial mortgage or rental payment.Take a look at your Debt. Began to work from the smallest to the largest. Take the money you saved from not buying, let’s say lunch, and redirect the total amount towards paying off the smallest debt first.As you pay off each debt, take that money and add it to the next smallest debt, working your way to the largest, until you have eliminated your debt completely. While you are doing this, examine your household budget.Look at how to eliminate some of your other expenditures; for example, if you have a high cell phone bill, you might want to exchange that cell phone for one with a more fixed rate. Maybe instead of hiring a lawn service, you could cut the grass yourself. Perhaps you might visit Barber or cosmetology trade schools to obtain these services at a reduced rate.Look at what you are already doing first to find the extra money. If you still need more to make up the deficit, then you might look at your skills and talents: start a home-based business. It’s something you could do as a family.Money troubles can be conquered, if you are willing to take a few extra steps. Don’t look at the impossible debt mountain, began the climb one step at a time. And, yes, it is okay to reward yourself along the way but keep in mind where you are headed. Don’t overdo it. Once your debt is eliminated, don’t spend the excess money; instead, add it to your future savings options.Understand that paying your debts down will not take place overnight but if you are consistent it will happen.Blondie L. Clayton is a Realization Strategist™, Publishing Coach, Author of several books, Freelance Writer, hosts of several radio talk shows online. Download your free debt free starter kit at debtfree.print2publish.com

Book Release

Posted by Dr. Angela Butts Chester on November 16, 2008 at 1:18am

I am pleased to announce the release of my new book and journals.

Pick up your copy at:www.angelachesterministries.org orhttp://stores.lulu.com/angelachesterministries

A Key to Building A Strong Business

Posted by Glenna Lloyd on November 16, 2008 at 12:00am

I’ve just come back home from co-hosting a product party in the home of one of my team business builders. It was a very humbling experience that I hope one day they can all experience and reflect back on like I was doing today.I remember when my husband and I started out in this business wondering when we would know we were on the road to making it and realizing our dream of having a large and profitable business. It seemed do-able but it was an abstract dream that we had yet to realize. So we went through what most newbies go through. Talking to the wrong people, passing up the right people, sponsoring tons of wrong people and attracting none of the right ones. Going through personal growth, reading books, listening to tapes and cd’s, counselling with our mentors, attending meeting after meeting knowing that through all of this we’d catch that “one thing” that would catapult us to greatness in our industry. And you know it had been there all along right there in front of our faces. Today’s events have brought me to that realization and I’m glad – it’s been a growth process and a journey of discovery. I wish I had known this when we first started – boy! It would have saved us tons of heartache but we’re not the brightest bulbs in the package but gee, you surely don’t need to be to build a large organization! Some people get it right away and run and do really well.I’m sure by now you’re all wondering where I’m going with this, but I know that you’ll agree. When we first started I thought it was about what a fabulous product we represent (and it is, it works!). But I finally figured out that all those people were there because we are trusted and that they know that they are loved and respected and that we would never want to steer them in the wrong direction. Our credibility is in place and yes our people do have confidence enough in us to let us guide them to where they want to be. We head off a team of volunteers working for their success because they believe we will get them there and I know we will.Do you have this key in your team? If you do, congratulations! You and your team can but only succeed.Keep suceeding till we speak again! G

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Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.