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An Intimate Moment

Posted by Real DIVA Living for God on April 15, 2008 at 10:08pm

An intimate momentCome out from under the cloud and the shadow of deception, destruction and dis-ease. What are you talking about Pinki? I'm glad you asked, you have been going through this particular storm for some time now, and every time it looks like the storm is passing over, the clouds begin to roll again, well sister, it is time to come out from under the cloud and the shadow. You have taken all that you need to take, you have lost all the time, money, energy and tears you can afford to lose. You can have the peace of God, peace with God, and peace from God during this season. You were lied to and you believed it, you were tricked by a deceiver who happens to be good at his game, but when a woman runs back to and into the blood of Jesus, things change: your outlook change, your circumstances change, your mind changes, your mood, your money, your faith.... Faith without works is dead, get up and get from under the cloud and the shadow of deception, destruction and dis-ease. If where you are is making you sick and paralyzing your progress with God, girl, you are suffering from the spirit of "dis-ease", and there is healing for it, you are at a dis-ease about the whole situation, you need to make a radical move and you need to move now! God is not going to leave you crying, helpless and hopeless. In every "hopeless" situation, there is yet "HOPE". So shake yourself loose and get up and make YOUR life work for you. Start right now living life on a new level. What your enemy meant for evil, God is going to work it out for your good. I am praying for you my sister.

VolunteerOpening’s for ClubCushions.com We are currently seeking businesses to network with

Posted by Club Cushions LLC on April 15, 2008 at 8:59pm

Volunteer/Intern Opening’s for ClubCushions.comClub Cushions is all about the empowerment and acceptance of women of size. I would like to invite you to visit the website at ClubCushions. Com for more information. We are currently seeking businesses to network with for Club Cushions events. For our next event, we need sponsors to donate any advertising specialty items (pens, tshirts, keychains, small gifts) and in return you would gain FURTHER recognition for your business. If you are interested you can reply to this bulliten or email me at info@clubcushions.comVolunteer/Intern Opening's for ClubCushions. com:We are looking for writer's to be apart of the Club Cushions Team! Whatever the style (except erotic), we would love for you to submit a sample of your work to info@clubcushions.com for consideration. Spots are limited.If you…Are a supporter of ClubCushions. comWrite poemsLove giving adviceKnow all the latest fashion trendsAre the "matchmaker" among your friendsLove musicLove to talk and ask questionsWrite short storiesETC.(men may apply)!!!!We are also looking for positive women who would like to start City & State Chapters of Club Cushions LLC.(only the serious need to apply)***We are looking for persons with marketing and business background!***We need you for our publication. Respond to this bulletin or email me at info@clubcushions.com

The Divas are heading to Tahiti...Join Us!

Posted by Margaret Salmond on April 15, 2008 at 7:49pm

The World Wide Divas, my Womens Only Travel Club, is hitting the road and traveling to paradise. We are heading to Tahiti for 1 week of relaxing bliss and shopping.Care to join us? Are you a Diva that needs to chill and see the world?Join us...Head over to worldwidedivas.ning.com

Protect your cash if travel plans get canceled

Posted by Margaret Salmond on April 15, 2008 at 6:32pm

(CNN) -- Josh Dorkin and his wife were scheduled to fly to Chicago last week for a wedding and family reunion. The couple paid about $300 for two tickets on American Airlines, but Josh found out that the flight was canceled after spending five hours on the phone with customer service.Travelers may want to consider travel insurance to protect against flight cancellations.The Dorkins weren't guaranteed seats on a United Airlines flight, so Josh spent $1000 for tickets on Southwest. American said his $300 will be refunded, but Josh is still frustrated."It turned out to be a bloody disaster," he said.With the chaos in the skies, travelers are looking to protect themselves any way they can. Some experts say travel insurance is key."As we get into the summer months, that extra piece of insurance can give you piece of mind," said Tom Parsons, CEO of Bestfares.com, a discount travel Web site. "We see airlines cutting back, bad weather. Insurance isn't a bad idea," he said.Josh Dorkin said he'll consider travel insurance next time."Considering what's going on, it will be fairly prudent at this point to get travel insurance," he said. "It's important in this day and age."But some industry insiders aren't sure it will pay off."Travel insurance does not insure your trip," said Ed Perkins of Smartertravel.com. "It insures your money. If you're involved in an airline mechanical delay, travel insurance won't do much for you," he said. "Travel insurance isn't good for these day-to-day difficulties."To buy or not to buy?In the case your flight is delayed or canceled, the airline generally arranges for alternate transportation or you'll get a voucher for future travel. And while American Airlines passengers received compensation, travel insurance may play a role in covering expenses the airline won't cover, like taxi fare to the hotel, meals or other amenities, said Vickie Corliss of Insuremytrip.com, a third- party insurance site.There are some instances where travel insurance is a good bet. If you're scheduled to go on a cruise, or you've booked a rental property or a package tour, a policy can save you a significant amount of money should an unforeseen event pop up. If you've invested $5,000 for a cruise, it's probably worth getting a policy. This way if your flight getting to the cruise is delayed or canceled, you won't be out the cost of your vacation."Whether you need to buy a policy depends on how much money you have at risk," said Perkins. "The whole idea of insurance is to protect big investments, not to argue over chump change," he said.The most common and comprehensive coverage is trip cancellation insurance, accounting for 77 percent of total sales according to the US Travel Insurance Association, an industry group. This policy will cover you in case your plane is delayed or canceled. You'll recoup un-reimbursed costs, like meals and hotels, if you're stuck at an airport for a certain amount of time, usually four to eight hours according to the USTIA. Trip cancellation policies also cover lost baggage and un-reimbursed costs in case you have to cancel your trip because of an illness.If your airline stops operating, travel insurance may cover your tickets. But be wary of the fine print here. Some insurance carriers have a white list and a black list. If an airline is on a white list and it goes bankrupt, you'll be covered. But if an airline is on the black list, you won't. See how airlines are coping with rising costs »Know your optionsTravel insurance policies aren't cheap. They can run 4 to 8 percent of the total cost of your trip. Shop around for a policy that fits your budget. InsureMyTrip.com, QuoteWright.com and SquareMouth.com help travelers comparison shop.Travel insurance is even more expensive for older travelers. If you're in your 70s or 80s, you may want to consider getting a cancellation waiver from your carrier. "It costs much less than travel insurance," said Perkins. With a cancellation waiver, you won't have to pay penalties if you cancel your trip at the last minute. Keep in mind that you may not be covered with this waiver if you cancel because of a pre-existing medical condition.If you decide to invest in travel insurance, but you're worried about the solvency of the operator, use a third-party insurance agent so that you're ensured reimbursement even if your airline or cruise line goes out of business.Timing is key if you want to purchase travel insurance. You'll get the maximum amount of coverage if you buy a policy within 7 to 21 days of putting down your trip deposit. You'll get financial default coverage, in case the airline stops flying, and pre-existing medical conditions coverage. Make sure you read the find print: Some companies will only give you 7 days to buy coverage to get these benefits, while others will allow up to 21 days.Before you invest in a travel insurance policy, call your credit card issuer. You may have some free travel benefits you're not even aware of, said Curtis Arnold of Cardratings.com, a credit card information Web site. American Express, for example, will give you $500 worth of insurance if your checked luggage is lost and up to $1250 if your carry-on baggage is damaged. Some Chase cards will reimburse you up to $300 immediately if your bags are delayed.Credit cards also have merchant dispute benefits. Your credit card company may go to bat for you if your flight is canceled and you haven't been appropriately accommodated or reimbursed. You have to make a good faith effort to solve the problem yourself first, but if the travel provider hasn't solved the problem and has not upheld its end of the bargain -- namely, getting you to your destination -- get in touch with your credit card issuer. A lot of issuers will instantly credit your account

Free Tutorial On Creating Quality Online Video

Posted by Jim Neusom on April 15, 2008 at 6:16pm

Greetings Family,(Contact Information At Bottom Of Page)It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again (smile)The following tutorial was sent to me by a sharp brother and recognized Digital Drummer... Anthony Stewart. Brother Stewart has a great website designed specifically to make technology simple (see http://www.theanthonyreport.com/)Below I have scaled down a fabulous tutorial, on how to create and upload quality videos to the web. If you're in the entertainment business, or looking to incorporate Rich Media onto your website, I strongly recommend that you download the full PDF file, and save it to your hard drive.Remember, We Must Share The Knowledge (Network)...To Share The Dollars!!!***************(Advertisement)*********************Need some great ideas for corporate or personal gift-giving?Then go to City Lights Software(http://www.citylightssoftware.com )and see some of the most unique afrocentric gifts available online!We Deliver ONLINE - Direct To Your Desktop for just $14.95Please take the time to purchase one our afrocentric screen savers TODAY!Don't Just Talk the Talk...Let Your Dollars Walk the WalkIf you have any problems with purchasing online contact me direct at sales@citylightssoftware.com or call (213) 944-4176******************************************************HOW TO GET QUALITY VIDEO ONLINEBrought to you by The Anthony Report | Simplyfing Digital Technologyhttp://howtogetqualityvideoonline.com/HowToGetQualityVideoOnline.pdfSTEP ONE: Always start out with the best shot (videotaped) footage you can.This means you will need to know a few things about shooting video. There are 3 stages in the process of shooting video or film. Those stages are, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production.PreProduction – In this stage you’ll plan everything before you start recording. You’ll go over the set (environment to shoot) the script and all the equipment you’ll need to produce the finished product. I can tell you that nearly every shoot (videotaping session) will require, proper lighting, good microphones, and a good camera.Camera – (see full tutorial)Lights – (see full tutorial)Microphone – (see full tutorial)Headphones – (see full tutorial)).Set/Background – (see full tutorial)Accessories – (see full tutorial)Production – (see full tutorial)STEP TWO – Capture, edit and finish the footage in a format that keeps the highest quality of the footage intact for compression.Post Production – This is where we take all the footage you just shot off the camera and place it on a computer for editing then go on to edit, finish and compress it for the web.Firewire – (see full tutorial)Editing Software – (see full tutorial)Now once you have chosen and installed the editing application of your choice then the major steps are pretty much the same in all of them...(see full tutorial for detailed 8 step process)STEP THREE – How to Compress your footage and retain the highest QualityThere are several compression applications available but they all compress to just a few popular formats that work on the web. These primary formats are Quicktime, Windows Media, and Flash.Your editing application will give you the option to choose the format you want. Below is a brief description of each, but more importantly, the settings you’ll need to get the best Quality out of each... (see full tutorial)STEP FOUR - After you have the clip compressed you’ll need to get it onto the web.The main question you’ll have to ask yourself is...where is the clip going to be displayed. If you want the clip in your own webpage then you’ll have to embed it. If you want it on Youtube, Google Video or my favorite, Viddler.com, then you’ll have to encode the footage differently and upload to their servers so the footage can be re-encoded...(see full tutorial)I know sometimes that trying to learn how to do things with computers and other technologies can be somewhat daunting to say the least. Which, is why I have created this whole tutorial in video format (see http://www.howtogetqualityvideoonline.com) where you can watch over my shoulder while I go through the processes I’ve mentioned above.© 2008 Anthony Stewart - All Rights Reserved | http://www.howtogetqualityvideoonline.com***************(Advertisement)*********************TraVerus Travel - Become a part of the most unique family in MLMTo learn more about free travel visit their websitewww.traverusfaststart.com/yes.html******************************************************This Online Journal was brought to you by InterServe Networks. Feel Free To Forward To Your Network Of Online FriendsWe Practice Responsible E-Commerce Marketing and Privacy Policies. We do not indulge in or encourage Spamming. We never send unsolicited emails. You are receiving this message as part of our opt-in subscriber mailing list or you are a member of an affiliated newsgroup.For comments or suggestions please contact us at the following;Jim Neusom (jneusom@yahoo.com)Executive Director/PublisherInterServe Networks/City Lights Software, Inc.www.citylightssoftware.comwww.freshfaces2u.comwww.myspace.com/jimneusomwww.myspace.com/freshfaces2uTo subscribe to our opt-in mailing list simply send an email to; The_City_Lights_Reporter-subscribe@yahoogroups.com ( on Myspace go to http://blog.myspace.com/jimneusom )

Resorts offer new deals

Posted by Debrah on April 15, 2008 at 4:19pm

Both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World recently announced new free-dining packages that will be available for some guests staying in the resorts' on-property hotels during the late summer or early fall.Universal's package will provide free dining for two people at select locations in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure when they book a minimum three-night stay at one of the three Loews Hotels there and buy two-park ticket packages. The deal includes unlimited dining plus soft-drink fountain beverages.Guests must book their trip between now and June 1, for travel between Aug. 17 and Oct. 9.Disney World's package is available to those who purchase "Magic Your Way" packages for late August or early-to-mid September. People who purchase five-night, six-day packages that include resort-hotel rooms can receive the Disney Dining Plan at no additional charge.They must book between now and June 22, for a stay between Aug. 24 and Sept. 20.The plan includes one quick-service meal, one select snack and one table-service meal for each night of a guest's package stay. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages are not included. Children ages 3-9 must choose from the children's menu if one is offered.More than 100 restaurants throughout Disney World participate in the program.

Disney Does Bridal

Posted by Margaret Salmond on April 15, 2008 at 4:00pm

Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Collection Is Inspired by the Unique Spirit and Personality of Each Disney PrincessNEW YORK--The Gown. The Slipper. The Kiss. The Prince. Under it all, every girl believes in the dream. As a tribute to fairy tale wishes and finding true love, Disney today will unveil a new collection of wedding gowns inspired by the spirit and style of each Disney Princess. Kirstie Kelly For Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings inaugural collection will be showcased on the runways this evening as part of the New York Bridal Fashion Week. Bridal gowns priced between $1,100 and $3,500 US dollars and a “Maidens” for bridesmaids collection will be available at specialty boutiques in North America, Japan and Europe beginning in June. The collection will soon expand to include “Jewels” that accessorize even the fairest of them all.The collection combines a fashion-forward look with timeless elements inspired by the Disney Princesses themselves, including Ariel, Aurora/Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White. Fabrics like organza, chantilly, chiffon, satins and tulle are accented with stunning embellishments, including lace, ribbons, crystals, pearls and gorgeous embroidered beading.“Every look takes its inspiration from the silhouette, palette and icons of each Disney Princess story and interprets the spirit of each young woman,” said Kelly. “Each of them has a unique, charming and very individual style that many brides can identify with – and now truly emulate – on their wedding day.”The Ariel dresses are sultry and alluring – ideal for the bride who feels comfortable with a more form-fitted look. Fabrics consist of gorgeous silks and chiffons, beads, leaf appliqué and pearls, with a mermaid-like “wave effect” at the bottom. The Aurora/Sleeping Beauty collection is lovely and romantic, with a mix of georgette, chantilly, high-shine satin, pearl and crystal embellishments, with pleated hems and beaded organza inlays. The Belle collection exudes stylish sophistication, with lace and ribbon, bands of satin, taffeta and gorgeous tulle flowers at the neckline. The Cinderella gowns radiate classic glamour and elegance, with silk tulle, duchesse satin, scattered crystals and embroidered beading. The Jasmine gowns convey a Bohemian chic look, featuring appliquéd lace, embroidery and draping, with chiffon and satin mixed in with clustered beadwork. The Snow White dresses are sweet and demure, with rouched chiffon, tulle inlays with beading and pleated satins.“When brides shop for wedding gowns and see Kirstie Kelly’s Disney Princess-inspired collection, they will stop in their tracks,” said Jim Calhoun, executive VP, global apparel, Disney Consumer Products. “Every bride wants to be a Princess on their wedding day, and they want the magical feeling that goes along with it. This collection captures that magic extremely well.”For consumer information on the Kirstie Kelly For Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection, consumers may visit Disney BridalAbout Kirstie KellyKirstie Kelly of Kirstie Kelly, Inc. designs couture bridal gowns with the highest quality and attention to detail. A graduate of The Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design in Los Angeles, she has been designing bridal and evening wear for more than a decade. Hailed in USA Today as one of the 2003 season's new designers favored among celebrity brides, Ms. Kelly has a growing client base that includes individuals who are influencing the worldwide media, art, culinary and political societies. For more information visit Kristie Kelly

The Video

Posted by Courtney R. Franklin on April 15, 2008 at 3:13am

By now, most of you have probably seen the video of the group of girls beating the other girl in the house. (Turn to CNN if you haven't) Alot of people are shocked but the reality is that this type of thing happens every single day. There are so many angles that I could analyze this from that my head is just spinning. Instead of getting on my "racial coverage in the media" soapbox, I'll stick to the most important issue at hand.I spoke to Leslie Denman, of Girls Living Life on Purpose this afternoon about our shared passion for empowering teen girls. We briefly spoke about violence, since it is apparently an issue in both of our cities. Leslie is in Dallas, and I'm in Philadelphia, but violence is obviously a nationwide issue.I have to admit that I'm kind of torn about my feelings regarding this video, and this is the topic I want to post for discussion. I want to get feedback, because although the video was more than disturbing, I can't help feel terrible for the girls who committed the act. Let me explain. My husband says that I should think about how I would feel if it were my daughter on the tape, and I get that. This was a reprehensible act and they should be punished for it...to the fullest extent of the law. But...what does that help?I look at this situation from everyone's perspective. I cannot stress enough how sorry I feel for the victim, but in my opinion everyone is a victim in this situation. This is such a powerful testimony to the fact that our girls need our help to make positive choices for their lives. Because when you get right down to it, each and every one of those girls made the concrete choice to be involved in that scene. They need guidance. In my work with teens, choices and ACCOUNTABILITY are two of the key areas on which I spend a lot of time. I constantly preach that once they make a choice to do something, they must be able to fully own the consequences, in this case, possible jail time. I try my best to develop a mutually respectful relationship that leads them to trust that the work that we do together is for thier benefit. I hope and pray that if one of my girls were ever in a situation like this, they would be able to think of one of our sessions and walk away.I had to talk about this, but I also want to post a question.Do you think these girls can be reached and empowered, or are they a lost cause?Can everyone be reached, or are there some people who cannot be helped?Thanks for listening.

Meet Me...

Posted by Jeane' Elliott Bennett on April 15, 2008 at 2:46am

Hello,Meet me around the web. Visit my pages. Have a look around. Have fun.* http://www.Sisterwoman.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.iZania.com/black-business-directory/DonJeaRomance* http://www.CafeMom.com/home/DonJea* http://www.MySpace.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.Ryze.com/go/DonJea* http://www.BlackPlanet.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.WomenLeadersCoop.com/index.php?aid=11991* http://www.Donjeasnetwork2.ning.com* http://Member.MerchantCircle.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.WealthWithCandles.com/DonJeaRomance?more* http://www.TheRomanceofCandles.com* http://www.DonJea.Scent-Team.com* http://www.WealthWithCandles.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.Ojeez.com/DonJeaRomance* http://www.Boomj.com/DonJea* http://www.LinkedIn.com/in/DonJeaRomance* http://www.Facebook.com/profile.php?id=1187804787* http://www.Mamasource.com/profile/16074217656416206849* http://www.divasontheprowl.com/mtd_jeane.htmThere is more to come. :)Warm Regards,Jea--~~Romance Yourself In Candles~~Jeane' Elliott BennettDonJea Romance951-965-9267Inland Empire/High Desert, CADonJeaRomance@gmail.comwww.TheRomanceofCandles.comwww.DonJea.Scent-Team.comwww.WealthWithCandles.com/DonJeaRomancewww.GreetingCakeCo.com/LittleGreetingCakesIndependent Notable Style Consultant~~Life is just a series of trying make up your mind. Timothy Fuller~~

Upcoming Guests on LE-Radio

Posted by Margaret Salmond on April 14, 2008 at 6:00pm

LE-Radio will soon be on the air and we will be chatting about all things Wedding, Special Events and Travel. Some of our special guests on LE-Radio will include:Rev. Angela Chester for Blessings All AroundKeisha Monk-Myrick of Chocolate BridesKeisha will be my guest on May 25Michael Corsentino of Corsentino PhotographerMonette Thompson of Blooming BroomsYou can also chat with me in our online chat as well as call into our show at 646-200-4451. Our chat will also be available after the show at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LE-Radio and will soon be available for download on I Tunes.Make sure to make our homepage one of your favorites and we look forward to "seeing" you on the radio.

SoulGriots On Ning!

Posted by KAMAL IMANI*The Soul Griot! on April 14, 2008 at 3:08pm

Peace Soulgriots Family,Join the budding community of OrganicSoul, Vintage SpokenWord, RootsReggae, Conscious HipHop Emcees & More as we emerge into a positive collective! Post your videos, music, blogs and more!http://soulgriots.ning.comhttp://www.soulgriots.com Coming Soon!One Love!Kamal Imanihttp://www.myspace.com/kamalsupremehttp://www.soulgriots.ning.com

Visit SoulGriots
Tune into the RevolutionaryArt Radio Show Every Sunday Evening at 8:00 EST for Organic music! http://www.viradio.orghttp://www.myspace.com/revolutionaryartevents

SoulGriots On Ning!

Posted by KAMAL IMANI*The Soul Griot! on April 14, 2008 at 2:06pm

Peace Family,Join the budding community of OrganicSoul, Vintage SpokenWord, RootsReggae, Conscious HipHop Emcees & More as we emerge into a positive collective! Post your videos, music, blogs and more!http://soulgriots.ning.comhttp://www.soulgriots.com Coming Soon!One Love!Kamal Imanihttp://www.myspace.com/kamalsupremehttp://www.soulgriots.ning.com

Visit SoulGriots
Tune into the RevolutionaryArt Radio Show Every Sunday Evening at 8:00 EST for Organic music! http://www.viradio.orghttp://www.myspace.com/revolutionaryartevents

What are the Odds?

Posted by Alive Inc & ALIVE Magazine on April 14, 2008 at 4:30am

Out of necessity, you often focus on the things in your life that are not working as well as you’d like them to be. It pays to also consider, appreciate and celebrate the vastly large number of things that are working just great.Occasionally you’ll turn the key in the ignition and your car won’t start, causing hassles, frustration and delays. Yet how very many more times do you have cause to be thankful when you turn the key, the car starts right up, and you drive quickly and safely to your destination?The problems and the pains may at times seem to be overwhelming. Keep in mind though, that the only rea¬son you notice them at all is because they are so rela¬tively rare. The news each day may appear to be all bad news. How¬ever, what qualifies anything to be news is the fact that it is highly unusual.In the normal course of life, there are so very many things which work just fine that you only notice a small fraction of them all. Open your awareness to more of them, seek to be more genuinely thankful for them, and you’ll connect more fully to their immensely positive power.Celebrate what’s working in your life and in your world, and those few things that are not working will hardly be able to even slow you down. Celebrate what’s working, and it will increasingly work even better for you.

Donate Your Fashion Items to "Project Prom" for NYC Students

Posted by Elana Pruitt on April 14, 2008 at 2:31am

You know that bracelet you never wore, but still think it's prettier than ever? Or, what about the millions of heels you still have in their shoeboxes?Now, you can put them to good use and donate them to an amazing new project. Visit Diary of a Personal Shopper for details!Hugs,Elana

Are you a Master Networker? Want to be?

Posted by ShaChena Gibbs, Association Exec on April 13, 2008 at 5:30pm

Adopt these 10 traits, and you'll have people knocking down your door tryingto do business with you.Networking is more than just shaking hands and passing out business cards.Based on a survey I conducted of more than 2,000 people throughout the UnitedStates, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, it's about building your"social capital." The highest-rated traits in the survey were the ones relatedto developing and maintaining good relationships. For years I've beenteaching people that this process is more about "farming" than it is about"hunting." It's about cultivating relationships with other business professionals.It's about realizing the capital that comes from building social relationships.The following traits were ranked in order of their perceived importance tonetworking. They're the traits that will make you a "master networker."A Master Networker... .1. Follows up on referrals. This was ranked as the No. 1 trait of successfulnetworkers. If you present an opportunity, whether it's a simple piece ofinformation, a special contact or a qualified business referral, to someone whoconsistently fails to follow up successfully, it's no secret that you'lleventually stop wasting your time with this person.2. Positive attitude. A consistently negative attitude makes people dislikebeing around you and drives away referrals; a positive attitude makes peoplewant to associate and cooperate with you. Positive business professionals arelike magnets. Others want to be around them and will send their friends,family and associates to them.3. Enthusiastic/ motivated. Think about the people you know. Who gets themost referrals? People who show the most motivation, right? It's been said thatthe best sales characteristic is enthusiasm. To be respected within ournetworks, we at least need to sell ourselves with enthusiasm. Once we've done aneffective job of selling ourselves, we'll be able to reap the reward of seeingour contacts sell us to others! That's motivation in and of itself!4. Trustworthy. When you refer one person to another, you're putting yourreputation on the line. You have to be able to trust your referral partner andbe trusted in return. Neither you nor anyone else will refer a contact orvaluable information to someone who can't be trusted to handle it well.5. Good listening skills. Our success as networkers depends on how well wecan listen and learn. The faster you and your networking partner learn whatyou need to know about each other, the faster you'll establish a valuablerelationship. Communicate well, and listen well.6. Networks always. Master networkers are never off duty. Networking is sonatural to them that they can be found networking in the grocery store line,at the doctor's office and while picking the kids up from school, as well asat the chamber mixers and networking meetings.7. Thanks people. Gratitude is sorely lacking in today's business world.Expressing gratitude to business associates and clients is just another buildingblock in the cultivation of relationships that will lead to increasedreferrals. People like to refer others to business professionals that go above andbeyond. Thanking others at every opportunity will help you stand out from thecrowd.8. Enjoys helping. Helping others can be done in a variety of ways, fromliterally showing up to help with an office move to clipping a helpful andinteresting article and mailing it to an associate or client. Master networkerskeep their eyes and ears open for opportunities to advance other people'sinterests whenever they can.9. Sincere. Insincerity is like a cake without frosting! You can offer thehelp, the thanks, the listening ear, but if you aren't sincerely interested inthe other person, they'll know it! Those who have developed successfulnetworking skills convey their sincerity at every turn. One of the best ways todevelop this trait is to give the individual with whom you're developing areferral relationship your undivided attention.10. Works their network. It's not "net-sit" or "net-eat", it's net-work, andmaster networkers don't let any opportunity to work their networks pass them by.They manage their contacts with contact management software, organize theire-mail address files and carry their referral partners' business cards aswell as their own. They set up appointments to get better acquainted with newcontacts so that they can learn as much about them as possible so that they cantruly become part of each other's networks.Real Sisters Rising

The Balanced Life

Posted by Tracey on April 13, 2008 at 3:30pm

This is a picture I took on our drive up to Big Bear Lake......aahhh the beauties of Southern California :-)Acquiring a life of balance is a lot like rock climbing is for a newbie.This is one of my very first post on my blog, "B. beautiful, mind, body, spirit," (www.traceybrooks.blogspot.com) I thought this was worth re-posting here.My husband and I have made our theme for 2008 be, working toward a life that is in balance. Theme title is "The Balanced Life, mind, body and spirit." Out of that same thought process comes this blog. I will be covering subjects that I deal with in my daily life, mostly the good.....but with life you sometimes get lemons, so I'll be covering the bad also.... hopefully conveying how I have made Lemonade. My goal is to be an inspiration to all that visit. I believe that a life well lived is one that is shared. Friends, family and even strangers contribute to making us better. Choose to search for the good in all situations. I'm not saying I, myself is any Ms. Happy Go Lucky 24/7, but I am saying it's Ok to want to see, have and be the best. And I am pursuing Ms. Happy so that she can become a majority partner at all times. Part of what I think a balanced life entails is to be aware of everything, the good, bad and the ugly but to consciously seek the good. So here's to the best that life has to offer, even when the best come through adversity.Keep Climbing.Are you married? Then please join our group "Still Dating My Spouse," at www.stilldatingmyspouse.ning.comB. beautiful, mind, body, spirit.

IN MY PAJAMAS SHOW NEW SEGMENT: WOMENPRENEUR!

Posted by IN MY PAJAMAS SHOW on April 13, 2008 at 3:40am

We are "renaming" the segment and opening it more to other women from other networks from NING the segment (since we have requests). So as not to violate any rules from the use of the word "SISTAPRENEUR" we are going global. ~Amy~It is a one hour segment and we prefer to feature two entertpreneurs per segment. -Our show is located via BlogTalkRadio - so you have a new type of audience - cyberspace - the show is archival and downloadable - most of our guests have embedded their interviews on their myspaces, websites, etc.Our timezone is Eastern Standard time - so that just you know - and we work as much as we can around our guests convenience.You will need to submit your bio, biz bio and a picture to theshow@inmypajamas.net and on the subject matter please write WOMENPRENEUR: (YOUR NAME)Submit your information atleast the week before the interview date. If the dates available does not fit your schedule - let us know and we can work something out.If you have other questions feel free to email me at amy@inmypajamas.net or call me at 404.941.7979Open dates are as follows: Please book as early as possible so that there will be time to review your resume and information.May 1stMay 8thMay 20thMay 22ndMay 28thMay 29thJune 10thIf you have other questions feel free to email me at amy@inmypajamas.net or call me at 404.941.7979Looking forward to hear from you ladiesAmy B. ProducerIn My Pajamas Show

Claim $25 Gift from NBWEN!

Posted by Paradise on April 12, 2008 at 9:33pm

Our Christmas gift to you comes early this year. I came across this incredible offer that I must quickly share because it expires April 15.A new company called Revolution Money wants to be the next PayPal. This company is legit. Its Chairman is Steve Case, founder of AOL. Their investors include Citi, Morgan Stanley, and Deutsche Bank. They are literally paying you $25 just to sign up. Plus we get $10 for referring you, so we both come out ahead.There are no strings (well, you must be over 18 and in the U.S.). I signed up. It's painless and took two minutes. A minute later I confirmed my email address and had the $25 in my account. You can keep the money in your online account or just like PayPal, add your checking account and withdraw it to your own bank.You also can use your account to send money to other people like, oh, your friends at NBWEN (hint, hint!).Use your free money to pay for an NBWEN event! We are offering two deals to you, valid only for Revolution Money payments.1. EXTREME MAKEOVER: NBWEN EDITION! Come to the NBWEN EXTREME MAKEOVER EVENT on Sat. April 26th. Send the $25 from your Revolution Money account to info@nbwen.org and pay only $35 to attend!!2. LUNCH & LEARN. The next Learn & Lunch is Saturday, May 24th at the Bill J Priest Building. It features Mr. Darnell Smith of Business in the Black. A distinguished executive shares his tips regarding Web 2.0, Contact Management Systems, and Viral Marketing. Grab some insight and network with other enterprising women!. Send $25 from your Revolution Money account to info@nbwen.org.Claim your $25 now by clicking on the link below:https://www.revolutionmoneyexchange.com/ReferAFriend/ReferAFriend_landing.aspx?referreremail=paradisesecretarial@yahoo.com

Success........

Posted by DawnKA on April 12, 2008 at 3:52pm

My day is filled with to do's. There are those days where I have not touched anything on my to do list. It's just that I get a fresh burst of ideas and I immediately begin to explore. There are those days when I work only on my to do list and then if I am up to it I work on other ideas. The ultimate goal is to be successful in whatever I do.Success is what you make it - I am successful at making a cup of tea, preparing dinner, being a supportive mother, wife, sister,daughter, cousin, friend, boss, public speaker and landing a big clientIs your dream to be featured on the cover of a magazine as one of the wealthiest women? Do you want your home to featured in a magazine or a television show? Do you want to be recognized for your accomplishments? or Do you just want to be a great business woman, leader and positive mentor within your community? How do you define success? Are you waiting for millions of dollars to consider yourself a success?Why not celebrate the accomplishments you have made in your daily life as a success - you would be surprise to find out that you have been quite successful. I`t's a great way of beginning the appreciation path to success!

Flow of artists, expats turns Chiang Mai into hot spot

Posted by Debrah on April 12, 2008 at 3:30pm

April 13, 2008New York TimesBy JOSHUA KURLANTZICKBLESSED with a cooler climate than Bangkok and buffered by lush mountains, Chiang Mai has long served as a backpacker’s gateway to Thailand’s northern reaches. But an influx of Thai artists and Western expatriates has turned this quiet city into a vibrant destination in its own right. Design studios have sprung up in town, fusing traditional Thai with modern twists. Age-old curries are now paired with Australian red wines and croissants. The area around Nimanhaemin Road now looks like South Beach, packed with BMWs and Art Deco homes, alongside contemporary art galleries run by young Thais with purple hair and nose rings. But traditional Chiang Mai is still there. Walk away from Nimanhaemin into the old city and you’ll see shaved monks meditating and backpackers chowing down on banana pancakes.Friday3 p.m.1) OLD KINGDOMPacked with crumbling old stupas, jewel-encrusted temples and wooden houses, Chiang Mai’s central old city hasn’t lost its old charm. And since Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lanna kingdom, its temples and other historic sites have a unique look, with starker lines and darker woods. Start a long walk at Wat Chiang Man, the city’s oldest temple, built in the late 13th century, and then wander southwest, to Wat Chedi Luang, which houses a giant, partly damaged traditional Lanna-style stupa. Get your exercise by continuing on for about a mile, southeast, just past the old city walls, where you can stop for a break at a branch of Wawee Coffee, a local chain serving northern Thai joe. (Inside the Suriwong Book Center; Sri Donchai Road, near the intersection with Thanon Chang Khlan.)6 p.m.2) BODY SHOPThe bumpy roads can take their toll on your legs. Rejuvenate them at the Ban Sabai Town (17/7 Charoenprathet Road; 66-53-285-204). The spa offers aromatherapy and other treatments, but the specialty is, of course, Thai massage — a method that emphasizes stretching. The masseuse pulls and prods your limbs in every direction, like a chiropractor. Your muscles might be tempted to scream, but they’ll end up feeling like soft butter. An hourlong Thai massage costs 1,900 baht (or around $60 at 32 baht to the dollar), far less than you would pay at most hotel spas.8 p.m.3) CRABS AND KARAOKEFor a taste of the city’s cosmopolitan edge, stroll along the Ping River, where university students and young professionals gather at a strip of rollicking restaurants that serve modern Thai, Japanese and Western food. Among the liveliest is the Good View (13 Charoen Raj Road; 66-53-302-764; www.goodview.co.th), a sprawling pub and restaurant where the young patrons sing along to live Thai country and rock music, while downing pitchers of beer and shots of Johnnie Walker. Try the geng som, a soup flavored with a sour Thai orange, and the poo phat pong kari, crab stir-fried with yellow curry. Dinner for two people costs about 1,000 baht.Saturday7 a.m.4) HOLY MOUNTAINGet up early — it’s worth it — for the classic Chiang Mai experience: a morning hike on Doi Suthep, the 5,498-foot peak that overlooks the city. Many residents consider Doi Suthep a holy mountain, and hike it as often as they can. Head to the base of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple that, according to legend, dates from the 14th century, and is topped by a glittering gold chedi. On a clear day, the temple’s terraces afford views across northern Thailand. You’ll see Thailand old and new: monks in sandals begging for rice and young couples smooching in the corner (a taboo among older, more conservative Thais).Noon5) RENEWABLE DESIGNSChiang Mai has become a design laboratory, with foreign and Thai designers blending traditional styles with minimalist lines. Head to Nimanhaemin Road, a major design drag, for boutiques that sell textiles, pottery and other crafts. Thai art students wander the street in packs, occasionally whipping out sketchpads. Stores like Studio Kachama (10-12 Nimanhaemin Soi 1; 66-53-219-499) and Gerard Collection (6/23-24 Nimanhaemin Road 66-53-220-604; www.gerardcollection.com) sell funky lamps with shades made from local mulberry paper, furniture constructed from bamboo and women’s suits made from a traditional, thick-spun cotton.2 p.m.6) CLASSIC CURRIESNew, stylish bistros have colonized the city, but true fans of northern Thai cuisine — which incorporates Burmese and Chinese spices, and is lighter than southern Thai cooking — congregate at the classic Huen Phen (112 Rachamankha Road; 66-53-814-548). The restaurant’s cramped tables are packed with taxi drivers who dig into heaps of steaming curries and fiery salads. Have the khao soi, a delicious mix of creamy curry, crispy egg noodles, slices of pickled cabbage and bits of shallot and lime. Lunch for two is about 300 baht.4 p.m.7) ARTIST CROPIn recent years, many of Thailand’s best-known artists have moved to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. Several have won global recognition: Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook, a performance artist who reads poetry to corpses, was featured at the 2006 Venice Biennale. And Navin Rawanchaikul, who paints cartoonlike murals inside taxis and tuk-tuks, has exhibited his work at P.S. 1 Contemporary Art Center in New York. For emerging talents, visit La Luna Gallery (190 Charoen Raj Road; 66-53-306-678; www.lalunagallery.com).9 p.m.8) SPICE MARKETFor a late dinner, the fashionable crowd migrates to Dalaabaa (113 Bumrungraj Road; 66-53-242-491; www.dalaabaa.com) for cocktails and small Thai plates like spicy squid salad. The midcentury modern bungalow is furnished with eclectic furniture, polished wood and tons of glass, as if Frank Lloyd Wright had gone East. The young crowd includes rail-thin women in slinky black dresses smoking from long cigarette holders, Frenchmen tossing back martinis, and students with ponytails and wispy mustaches engrossed in conversations about Buddhism and art. Dinner with drinks for two is about 1,200 baht.Sunday7 a.m.9) TUSK TIMEEvery travel guide recommends an elephant ride, but the typical trip involves a short, bumpy elephant walk led by a bored trainer. Skip that and take a taxi instead to the Thai Elephant Conservation Center (www.changthai.com) between Chiang Mai and the town of Lampang. The center will not only teach you how to command and handle a tusker, but also how to honor the pachyderm, a revered animal in Thailand. Classes, which last most of the day, start at 3,500 baht.4 p.m.10) ROCK OUTWith its cooler climate and rugged terrain, Chiang Mai has become the hub for adventure sports, including rafting, trekking and mountain biking. An American expat, Josh Morris, pioneered the rock climbing scene, especially at Crazy Horse Buttress, a rock face that overlooks lime green, terraced rice fields. Mr. Morris’s outfitter, Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures (55/3 Ratchapkhinai Road; 66-53-207-102; www.thailandclimbing.com) offers introductory courses starting at 1,800 baht per person. After sweating to the top, head back to the bars along the Ping River to cool off with a Singha beer and cap off your adventure in style.THE BASICSFlights from the United States to Chiang Mai usually require a connection in Bangkok. Thai Airways International (www.thaiair.com) flies to Bangkok from Kennedy Airport in New York, with fares for travel in May starting at around $1,100, according to a recent Web search. Carriers flying to Chiang Mai from Bangkok include Thai Airways and Nok Air (www.nokair.com). One-way fares on Nok Air start at around 1,300 baht, or about $40 at 32 baht to the dollar.WHERE TO STAYThe Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (51/4 Chiang Mai-Sankampaeng Road; 66-53-888-888, www.mandarinoriental.com/chiangmai) is a striking resort on 60 acres with villas that resemble ancient Thai villages. Rooms start at 10,899 baht and go up to 280,000 baht for the Royal Residence, which has three private pools and six bedrooms.Chiang Mai boasts a new crop of boutique hotels. The elegant Rachamankha (6 Rachamankha 9; 66-53-904-111; www.rachamankha.com) looks like a chapel and unfolds into one peaceful courtyard after the next. Rooms start at 6,825 baht.The dusitD2 (100 Chang Klan Road; 66-53-999-999; www.dusit.com), set in the heart of the old city, offers a minimalist design and rooms starting at 4,100 baht.For event listings, check the English-language Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.net) or the magazine Citylife Chiang Mai (www.chiangmainews.com).

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Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.